Etiquette

As with many countries, Thailand has its own rules and regulations regarding etiquette. The Thai people’s culture is one of respect and it is reflected in their communications with others during their daily routines and work. Let’s cover the Thai ‘Wai” which is the way Thai people greet each other and the way they will greet you as a visitor. It’s a very polite and pleasant style of greeting someone and certainly during the Covid pandemic, it was a far safer way to greet people than with a handshake. The Wai is a Thai etiquette in greeting and respecting each other. It is also used when leaving someone after a meeting. It can also be a way to thanking someone, or apologizing to someone. Basically, one should press the palms together with fingers pointing up in front of your chest. Your head should be slightly bowed forward. It can be difficult for foreigners to be able to get it right but as long as you try it will be appreciated by the Thai people you meet. It is customary to return a wai, say if you are given a wai by someone welcoming you to a restaurant or other venue. Golden rules for the wai. Don’t initiate or return a wai to a child, it’s sufficient to nod and acknowledge the wai. Don’t initiate a wai to someone who is clearly younger than you and always initiate a wai to someone who is clearly older than you. It is true to say that sometimes visitors can go a tad over the top and tend to wai to everyone regardless. It’s best to just take it easy and only return or initiate when necessary. In order to help explain by a video we have added a video here explaining how to understand and use the wai appropriately. Here are a list of do’s and dont’s which you should find useful. The Thai people are generally easy going and most do appreciate that visitors have different customs in their country and may be unaware of some cultural understanding. Most of Thailand do’s and don’ts involve the same good manners and common sense you would apply to most countries. However, there are some important do’s and don’ts that we would like to highlight that you should be well aware of in order to avoid causing offence. Do Respect Thai culture Take off your shoes when entering temples and peoples’ homes. You may find that some, maybe smaller offices have a ‘take off your shoes rule’ which should be respected. Show respect for Buddha images which should not be climbed, or sat on. Also do not show your back to a Buddha image. Be careful of taking a Buddha images out of the country. Normally a permit is given and it is probably best not to buy a buddha image unless you have the necessary permit. Maintain a sensible dress code especially when visiting a temple. Knees and shoulders should be covered. Some temples have clothing items for a small rental fee which can help you meet the required standards. Respect the National Anthem which is played in cinemas before the main feature, and also in markets, train stations and other public places. It is played at 0800H and 1800H and you should stop what you’re doing and wait until its finished. Don’t Take things too seriously. Don’t get into an argument, start shouting or raise your voice. You’re on holiday, enjoy, take it easy and stay cool. Don’t touch monks. This is a special warning for the ladies who cannot touch monks or hand anything to a monk. If you are in a situation such as a ceremony, and you are required to give something to a monk, the monk will put part of his robe on the floor or nearby surface on which you should place the item you are giving him. Don’t point to anything with your feet and don’t place your feet on the table while sitting. Don’t disrespect the Thai currency. Thai coins and paper money show the kings profile or image and it would be considered bad manners to tear, crumple up or throw bank notes. Don’t step on or throw coins. Don’t show disrespect to the Royal family. Thailand has a Lesse Majeste law enforced which can end up in prosecution for defamatory or critical remarks made against the Royal Family in public or on social media. Don’t touch a persons head. The head is the most sacred part of the body and it should not be touched. There are some exceptions, such as fondly or playfully touching children or a couples’ interaction. As a general rule, it’s best to avoid touching someone’s head in case it is misunderstood. Let us know if you have any questions at info@amazingthailand.net