In America, we typically write our dates in MM/DD/YYYY format. In Thailand, and many other countries, the date is written in DD/MM/YYYY format. Remembering this difference is essential while filling out important documents, such as immigration forms.

Thais tell me the American format is illogical, and I must admit they are correct. It is just one example of why we elitist Americans need to be a little more humble toward our global neighbors.

Another important distinction is how years are counted in Thailand. We use the Gregorian calendar, which counts years from the supposed birth date of Jesus Christ. Thailand, on the other hand, uses the Suriyakati or Thai solar calendar. The Suriyakati counts years based on the birth of Lord Buddha - 543 years before Jesus Christ. Thailand does use the Gregorian method in some, but not all, business. For example, my bill from the hospital used Gregorian, but my rent and Internet bills are in Suriyakati.

Photo Courtesy of Gay Asian Amateurs

Right or wrong, I’ve concluded this is why some Thai boys have to do a little math before telling me what year they were born. Its not that they are trying to pull a fast one, they simply do not think of birth dates in Gregorian years. I believe it also explains why many have the wrong age in their Gay Romeo profile. Their Suriyakati birth year is not offered in the pull down menu option. All right…maybe that’s overly optimistic thinking on my part.