While Thailand is superficially becoming more and more Western, the Thai culture and habits are still practiced widely by its people. Foreign travelers may find it difficult to navigate the many cultural norms of Thai culture, but you don’t have to worry.
Thais are generally tolerant of well-intentioned faux pas, and they do appreciate earnest attempts by foreign visitors to pay respect to Thai culture. Here’s a short list of do’s and don’ts that will serve you well on your next trip to Thailand.
- Smile. In fact, smile as much as you can. Thais smile under any kind of situation, a cultural habit that Westerners often can’t understand. When in Bangkok, do as the locals do.
- Related to the first point – for Thais, only fools and people of poor upbringing lose their temper in public. Loud voices and angry talk can be extremely counterproductive in Thailand. Thais value keeping “face”, for themselves and each other. Smiling (see above) will get you much further than a raised voice.
- Remember the sacred and taboo parts of your body: head and feet. For Thais, the head is the most sacred part of the body, while the feet are the lowest and the filthiest. Don’t ever touch a Thai person’s head; at the same time, you must never show the soles of your feet to anyone, or use your feet to point to something.
- Before entering a house or office, it’s polite to leave your shoes outside.
- Public displays of affection are not encouraged in Thailand.
- Instead of shaking hands, Thais “wai” to greet people. The “wai” is a short bow done with hands held fingertips-together close to your chest or face. A proper “wai” is not as easy as you’d think, so practice a little to get the hang of it. Never “wai” someone of lower status – even it sounds like the egalitarian thing to do, you’ll only embarrass the person you’re “wai”ing.
- Buddhism is practiced by most Thais, so one must take extra-special care not to offend their religious sensibilities. Wear appropriate dress before entering a temple – avoid sleeveless shirts, flip-flops, and too-short shorts or skirts, for starters. Leave your shoes outside the temple as you enter.
- Show respect for the King and his family – Thais will not appreciate even the friendliest jest about their monarch. Thai people have a deep respect for their King, an affection that reciprocates his many accomplishments and sacrifices for the country. Remember, respect for the King isn’t just polite, it’s the law: you can read more in this article on Thailand’s Lese Majeste Laws.
