How to Say Bon Voyage in Thai: Formal and Informal Ways, Tips, and Examples

Are you planning to bid farewell to a friend or loved one who is embarking on a journey? Saying “bon voyage” is a thoughtful way to wish them a safe and enjoyable trip. If you are looking to say “bon voyage” in Thai, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to express it, along with some useful tips and examples.

Formal Way to Say Bon Voyage in Thai

When expressing “bon voyage” formally in Thai, you can use the phrase “ขอให้เดินทางโดยสุข” (khor hai dern tang doi suk). This phrase translates directly to “May your journey be happy.” It is a polite and well-wishing expression typically used in more formal settings or when addressing someone with respect.

Here’s an example of how you can use this formal phrase:

เคยเจอกันเป็นเพื่อนมานาน ขอให้เดินทางโดยสุขนะครับ/นาค่ะ (khoey jer gan pen pen maa naan, khor hai dern tang doi suk na khrap/kha)

We have been friends for a long time. May your journey be happy.

Informal Way to Say Bon Voyage in Thai

For a more casual or informal way to say “bon voyage” in Thai, you can use the phrase “ขอให้เดินทางปลอดภัย” (khor hai dern tang plod pai). This phrase translates to “Wishing you a safe journey.” It is commonly used among friends, peers, or when addressing someone in a more relaxed setting.

Here’s an example of how you can use this informal phrase:

ไปที่ไหนก็เชิญกันปลอดภัยนะครับ/นาค่ะ (pai thi nai gor chern gan plod pai na khrap/kha)

Wherever you go, have a safe journey.

Important Tips for Saying Bon Voyage in Thai

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when saying “bon voyage” in Thai:

• Politeness Matters: Thai culture places high value on politeness and respect. Ensure to use appropriate honorifics and polite language when addressing someone, especially in formal settings.
• Pronunciation: Pay attention to pronunciation and tones in Thai. While it may seem challenging at first, making an effort to pronounce the phrases correctly will be appreciated.
• Non-verbal Communication: Thais also rely on non-verbal cues and body language to convey politeness and respect. When saying “bon voyage,” a warm smile and respectful gestures will enhance your message.

Example Sentences for Saying Bon Voyage in Thai

Now let’s see some additional example sentences to further illustrate how to say “bon voyage” in Thai:

• สวัสดีตอนเช้า! วันนี้คุณกำลังจะเดินทางไปที่ไหนแล้วนะคะ? ขอให้เดินทางโดยสุขนะคะ (sawatdee ton chao! wan nee khun gamlang ja dern tang pai thi nai laew na kha? khor hai dern tang doi suk na kha)
• Hello in the morning! Where are you going today? May your journey be happy.
• โชคดีเถอะ! ขอให้เดินทางปลอดภัยกลับมาเจอครอบครัวเร็วๆนะครับ/น้อง (chok dee taw! khor hai dern tang plod pai glap maa jer khrap/kha-rao reo reo na khrap/kha)
• Good luck! Have a safe journey and return to your family soon.

Remember, expressing well-wishes and showing genuine care is more important than the specific phrases you use. Whether you opt for the formal or informal way, your gesture will surely be appreciated by the person you’re saying goodbye to. Use these tips and examples to confidently wish someone a memorable and safe journey in Thai!