Tips for foreigners in Thailand
- The King and Queen of Thailand as well as their Royal Family have been in supreme reverence. The people will not put up wiht foreigners talking About them in as insolent and disrespectful way.
- As Thailand is Buddhist country, all Buddhist statutes are held very sacred.
- It is customary when visiting a Buddhist monastery or place to dress up. Remove your shoes before stepping inside the main hall or ordination hall where there is a Buddhist image.
- Never touch or lean against a Buddha image. Ladies must not touch or reach out to a Buddhist monk, offer or receive anything directly.
- It is customary when entering a Thai house to take off you shoes and leave them outside the door.
- Thai woman are taught to be conservative therefore it is considered rude to touch them without their permission.
- Address Thai people by their first names and is very polite to use the title khun for adults.
- Foreigners should also be polite and respectful towards elderly Thai people.
- Learn a few Thai phrases. Thai people really appreciate this. Also try the local dishes
- Pay respect by standing to the national anthem. It is played twice a day (at 8.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m.) as well as before every film at the cinema.
- Never touch Thai people on the head as it is considered a special part of the body.
- Never step on money, the national flag or anything that has the Kings image on it.
- Never point the soles of your feet directly at Thai people or holy images as it is regarded and insult in Thai traditions.
