The plethora of languages spoken in Southeast Asia is a testament to the diversity of the region. Each country has many native and regional languages. They range from the Sinitic languages spoken by the Chinese populations to the Tai languages, which include the national languages of both Thailand and Laos. Colonial languages, including French, Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish and English are also spoken.
Southeast Asia boasts immense religious diversity. In some places, native religions still exist. These religions are animist in style wherein everything is oriented toward the seasons and nature.