The Thai people are famous for their gentle and welcoming nature. However, a few cultural reminders will keep you from giving offense while visiting that beautiful country.
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.
Every Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as a sacred object. Never climb onto one to take a photograph or do anything which might indicate a lack of respect. Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman, or to accept anything from the hand of one. If a woman has to give anything to a monk, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it.
Avoid commenting on the Royal Family. The Thais are protective and loyal to the ruling family, and treat them with deep respect. They are not a subject for levity in the way our politicians are.
Be a good sport. The Thais are a gentle, humorous people, and deal with every day problems with a smile. If your waitress forgets your coffee, she may laugh at her mistake. Sometimes westerns see this as laughing at them personally and react badly. This is not the case. Relax and be gracious. Courtesy under fire is very important to the Thais.
The Thais use a courtesy form of address: "Khun". Don't be surprised if someone calls you "Khun John", or simply "Khun". It is also very common for a Thai to use your first name at a first meeting.
Thais considered eye to eye contact impolite, and while generally not look directly into your eyes while speaking to you.
Don't touch a Thai on the head. And don't point your feet at anyone. It's considered very rude. Remove your shoes when entering a private home or temple.
Instead of a hand shake, you may be greeted with a "Wai". Return the gesture. A Wai is made by pressing your palms together as if you were going to pray. It is a graceful and courteous exchange of greetings.
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.
Every Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as a sacred object. Never climb onto one to take a photograph or do anything which might indicate a lack of respect. Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman, or to accept anything from the hand of one. If a woman has to give anything to a monk, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it.
Avoid commenting on the Royal Family. The Thais are protective and loyal to the ruling family, and treat them with deep respect. They are not a subject for levity in the way our politicians are.
Be a good sport. The Thais are a gentle, humorous people, and deal with every day problems with a smile. If your waitress forgets your coffee, she may laugh at her mistake. Sometimes westerns see this as laughing at them personally and react badly. This is not the case. Relax and be gracious. Courtesy under fire is very important to the Thais.
The Thais use a courtesy form of address: "Khun". Don't be surprised if someone calls you "Khun John", or simply "Khun". It is also very common for a Thai to use your first name at a first meeting.
Thais considered eye to eye contact impolite, and while generally not look directly into your eyes while speaking to you.
Don't touch a Thai on the head. And don't point your feet at anyone. It's considered very rude. Remove your shoes when entering a private home or temple.
Instead of a hand shake, you may be greeted with a "Wai". Return the gesture. A Wai is made by pressing your palms together as if you were going to pray. It is a graceful and courteous exchange of greetings.
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