When visiting a country for the first time, especially one in the Middle East or Asia, it can be a little alarming when it comes to avoiding social gaffes, particularly if you are traveling on business. Here are a few ideas to help you when visiting Thailand.
One of the most important things a visitor to Thailand should remember is to dress conservatively, particularly at a religious shrine. Basically this means to cover up. No sleeveless tops, no shorts, and definitely nothing midriff-baring. It also means to dress neatly. This is a temple, not a rave. Treat it as you would your own house of worship. Remember to remove your shoes when entering the main enclave where the statue of Buddha is kept.
The statues of Buddha are a religious icons, and therefore sacred. Every one of them, no matter the size, or the state of repair. You may photograph them, but do not stand or sit on them. Do nothing that might be interpreted as disrespectful. Monks have no contact with women generally, and are forbidden to touch or be touched by one. So if you want to hand something to a monk (alms, perhaps), hand it to a man first to hand to the monk, or place it in his bowl. Never hand it directly to the monk.
The Thais have a great respect and affection for their Royal Family. Please don't make any comments that might indicate a lack of respect for them.
The Thais set a lot of store on good manners and in handling things with a smile. If something goes wrong, a Thai is likely to smooth it over with a smile or a laugh. This is not an insult, or disrespectful. This is graceful living. So be gracious. Losing your temper is considered very bad form. If you must complain, do so with a smile.
The title "Khun" is a courtesy. A Thai may add this to your name or address you as such. It's also very common to call you by your first name on first meeting you.
Thais considered eye to eye contact impolite, and while generally not look directly into your eyes while speaking to you.
Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body, literally and figuratively. Therefore, avoid touching people on the head and try not to point your feet at people or an object. It is considered very rude. Shoes should be removed when entering a private Thai home.
When meeting you, a Thai may greet you with a gesture called a "Wai" instead of shaking hands. A Wai is made by pressing your palms together in front of your chest, as if you were praying. A younger person will always greet an older person with a Wai. If someone greets you with a Wai, it's considered courteous to return it.
One of the most important things a visitor to Thailand should remember is to dress conservatively, particularly at a religious shrine. Basically this means to cover up. No sleeveless tops, no shorts, and definitely nothing midriff-baring. It also means to dress neatly. This is a temple, not a rave. Treat it as you would your own house of worship. Remember to remove your shoes when entering the main enclave where the statue of Buddha is kept.
The statues of Buddha are a religious icons, and therefore sacred. Every one of them, no matter the size, or the state of repair. You may photograph them, but do not stand or sit on them. Do nothing that might be interpreted as disrespectful. Monks have no contact with women generally, and are forbidden to touch or be touched by one. So if you want to hand something to a monk (alms, perhaps), hand it to a man first to hand to the monk, or place it in his bowl. Never hand it directly to the monk.
The Thais have a great respect and affection for their Royal Family. Please don't make any comments that might indicate a lack of respect for them.
The Thais set a lot of store on good manners and in handling things with a smile. If something goes wrong, a Thai is likely to smooth it over with a smile or a laugh. This is not an insult, or disrespectful. This is graceful living. So be gracious. Losing your temper is considered very bad form. If you must complain, do so with a smile.
The title "Khun" is a courtesy. A Thai may add this to your name or address you as such. It's also very common to call you by your first name on first meeting you.
Thais considered eye to eye contact impolite, and while generally not look directly into your eyes while speaking to you.
Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body, literally and figuratively. Therefore, avoid touching people on the head and try not to point your feet at people or an object. It is considered very rude. Shoes should be removed when entering a private Thai home.
When meeting you, a Thai may greet you with a gesture called a "Wai" instead of shaking hands. A Wai is made by pressing your palms together in front of your chest, as if you were praying. A younger person will always greet an older person with a Wai. If someone greets you with a Wai, it's considered courteous to return it.
About the Author:
Chris Linch operates a website where you can book Cheap Hotel Rates. This information was contributed by his experiences and research.
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