Do's & Don'ts in Thailand
A Small Guide to some Do's & Donts in Thailand
DO:
Show respect about Buddhism at all times. All Buddha images are regarded as being sacred.Do not climb on them or show any signs of a lack of respect. Dress code is extremely important in Temples (wear sleeves, do not wear vests, short pants etc.).Remove shoes before entering a Chapel where the Buddha statue is kept.
Buddhist monks are not allowed to touch or be touched by a woman or to directly accept anything from a woman. If a woman wishes to offer something to a monk or novice, she must first hand it to a man who will then present it to the monk. If a woman wants to present something personally, the monk or novice will spread out a piece of robe or a handkerchief for the woman to place the object on before it can be picked up or handled.
Always speak with respect about His Majesty The King and Queen,and also their family. They are Highly revered by Thai people.
Always show and speak with respect towards the elderly, in every situation.
Always take your shoes off before entering a Thai house, shop, or salon
Be very patient when qeueing in a bank or post office or similar. Thai people are very used to waiting and would take offense if you began showing your impatience.
Avoid unauthorized people who offer their services as guides.
Use common sense precautions regarding personal safety and the safety of your belongings. Walking alone in the dark or deserted areas is not recommended. Ensure that all valuables are well protected. Never let your belongings out of sight if possible.
DON'T:
Do not point at people or things with your feet. This is considered as being extemely impolite, as the feet are considered to be the most inferior parts of the body. And don't sit on the floor of a Temple with your feet pointing towards Buddha!
Do not touch the heads of people, even if you may see this as a form of affection. The head is considered as the most superior part of the human body, and touching is not a privilege for farang!
Don't be too familiar in public, even if you are married. You may see young Thai couples holding hands, but never kissing. It is considered very impolite by Thai people to kiss in public, or walk with your arms around each other.
Don't shout to/at anyone in public. If you need to argue with your wife or children, do this in the privacy of your room and not in public! You will lose respect if you do this in public! Also do not punish your children in public for the same reason.
Do not Take anything through Thai customs for anyone! If you are caught carrying drugs, you risk the death penalty or life in prison. Thai Prisons are very harsh places!
Buy any precious items off the street. Chances are they will actually be fake!
Do not get involved in any form of gambling in Thailand. Gambling is illegal in Thailand and the penalties are severe!
Do not get involved in prostitution in Thailand. You could be taking a serious health risk, and also risk being robbed!
Call to a waiter/waitress with the fingers of your hand pointing upward. This is considered very impolite. It should be done with the hand with fingers pointing downwards
Don't eat everything on your plate when dining with Thai friends. If you do this, Thai people will assume you are still hungry and keep ordering more food. Always leave a little food on your plate to avoid this.
