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To avoid getting into awkward situations in Thailand, remember the following.
10 etiquettes travelers should be aware of when traveling to Thailand
Thailand has always been one of the world's famous tourist destinations for all kinds of travelers. It is also a paradise for relaxation, especially with the excellent tourism services provided by the Thai people. However, Thailand has many cultural differences, especially compared to the West, particularly in customs and social norms. No traveler wants to make mistakes in behavior in a foreign land. Therefore, to avoid getting into awkward situations when traveling to Thailand, you should remember the following things.
Avoid discussing the King
Once you arrive in Thailand, you will quickly realize that the people here highly respect the King. This can be seen clearly through the presence of His Majesty's image everywhere. Thais are very sensitive to anything that shows disrespect towards the King. To avoid this, it's best not to mention the King in any way. Also, never step on coins or banknotes that have the King's image on them as it is considered disrespectful.
Avoid touching the head
Never touch anyone's head in Thailand (including children), even if you don't intend to. You should also know that the head is considered sacred in Thailand. Similarly, try to avoid pointing your feet towards others. This gesture is considered disrespectful, so if you're sitting across from someone on public transportation, try to adjust your feet slightly to the side.
Dress modestly when visiting temples
When traveling in Thailand and visiting any temples, monasteries, shrines, palaces, or any religious sites, the most important thing is to dress modestly, covering your knees and wearing sleeved shirts to show respect. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants are the safest attire to avoid being judged as culturally unaware. Additionally, when entering these places, you should check if others are taking off their shoes; if so, you should do the same.
Be cautious with some massage services
Thailand offers a wide range of massage services at affordable prices, so don't hesitate to experience one (or many) during your trip. But be cautious of any massage shops with signs indicating 'Happy girls' or anything related to girls or women. This almost certainly means that the shop is a brothel.
Take off your shoes
When visiting someone's house or a temple, religious sites, pay attention to whether it's customary to remove your shoes. If so, take off your shoes as a sign of respect. Another thing to note is never step over the threshold when visiting someone's house as it's believed to be the place where the spirits of the deceased reside.
Wai
Wai is an important part of Thai customs and traditions, used to express gratitude, apologies, greetings, or farewells... It's a gesture involving a slight bow while placing both hands together in a prayer-like manner in front of the chest. There are strict rules regarding the use of Wai, so foreigners are best to avoid this gesture even if someone greets you with a Wai. In most cases, a smile or a nod is the safest way for tourists to greet. Foreigners using Wai incorrectly may put Thais in awkward situations.
Eat with a spoon
This is something Western tourists need to get used to. Eating directly from the plate is considered impolite in Thailand. Always remember to eat with a spoon; the plate is only used to transfer food onto the spoon. If you don't want to receive stares from passersby while eating, you should remember this well.
Interacting with Buddhist Monks
There are certain rules when interacting with Buddhist monks in Thailand. You'll often encounter monks on the streets, and they're usually quite approachable. Women should never touch monks or their robes, even when outside the temple. If a woman accidentally touches a monk, the monk will need to perform a cleansing ritual. If a woman wants to give something to a monk, it's best to place it on the ground or hand it to a man to pass it on to the monk.
Pause at 8 AM and 6 PM
In Bangkok, the national anthem is played every day at 8 AM and 6 PM. If you're in a public place during these times, show respect by stopping all activities and standing still until the song finishes. If you're seated, stand up when the anthem begins. Don't be the only one still walking while everyone else in Thailand stands in reverence.
Maintain a friendly attitude
According to Esther/Star
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Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour
MytourJuly 11, 2017
