Don’t just stand there… Say something!
See how Benny moved from reading Thai to speaking it, handled mistakes and used a positive review of each interaction to keep improving.
Category: Language Hacks
One simple step to improve chances of success in any mission
Improve your chances of finishing a difficult mission by making a clear public commitment, tracking progress and creating accountability.
Ironic post: Why English is all you need to travel the world
Benny uses satire to show what English-only travel misses, then explains how a little local language can make a trip richer and more social.
How to Read Thai Tones: A Practical Starter Guide
Learn how to read Thai tones with a practical starter method using consonant class, syllable type and tone marks.
[video] Another way to look at the 5 tones of Thai
From the 2010 archive, Benny shares an early Thai tones video, with corrected descriptions of the five tones and a clear warning about his mistakes.
Is your language half full?
A more useful view of your current level can change how you practise. Focus on what you can communicate and build from there.
First impressions of Thailand
Read Benny’s first impressions of Thailand, from massages and local hospitality to affordable travel, unfamiliar sights and an uncertain itinerary.
How I Started Reading Thai Script After Five Hours of Practice
How mnemonics helped Benny recognise Thai letters in five hours, plus the tone, vowel, spacing and pronunciation rules that came next.
Learning enough of the language to get by on the flight over
Learn how Benny prioritises essential words and phrases when he has only a flight to prepare for getting by in a new language.
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