Thailand is a culturally rich and interesting country but it often makes the news for tourists behaving badly and disrespecting local norms. The seedy underbelly of the country is a frequent source of amusement and discussion too but don't let it overshadow the friendliness of its people, its diverse cultural heritage and its spectacular scenic sites. Do your homework before visiting the country to understand its cultural norms and learn a few phrases in the native language to show your respect.
Here are some helpful etiquette tips for those travelling to Thailand for the first time.
1. Walking around barefoot and then entering a temple, shop or someone's home is seen as disrespectful and dirty. Wear comfortable shoes but take them off before entering a religious site or somebody's home.
2. Pointing with your feet is offensive in Thailand so sit with your feet under you or cross-legged. Be particularly careful around monks and at religious sites. Kneel or cross your legs to one side (feet up and pointed backward) in a temple.
3. The head is considered the holiest and cleanest area of the body so do not casually touch someone's hair or head. On a related note, dip your head slightly if you pass by monks to accord them respect. Women should not touch monks or hand something to them.
4. Don't give money to people parading elephants and other wild animals. These are nothing more than gimmicks to make tourists shell out money. A lot of wild animals are mistreated so visit animal sanctuaries which actually care for their residents. The Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project in Phuket and the Wildlife Friends Foundation in Phetchaburi are examples of ethically-run organisations.
5. Thais don't do handshakes so while it may not be offensive to shake hands with new people, it would be preferable to use the traditional 'wai' greeting. It shows respect, especially to older people. Bring your palms together with fingertips touching the nose, bow your head, slightly bend your body and say hello.
6. Whether you're shopping in the local markets or taking a taxi, bargaining too low can land you in trouble. For the former, bargain with vendors starting from 50 per cent of the quoted price. For the latter, insist on travelling by the taxi meter (it's the law), use a motorcycle taxi or simply use the Grab app. Tuk-tuks will also rip you off so it's best to steer clear.
7. This last tip should go without saying but do not disrespect the royal family. It is forbidden to criticise, ridicule or threaten the Thai monarchy and jail terms for those committing lèse-majesté are harsh. It's probably best to not talk about the monarchy at all during your stay in Thailand.
1. Your trip to Thailand will be incomplete without tasting its iconic street food. The night markets are a feast for the taste buds and pocket-friendly to boot. Savour Guay Tiew Kua Gai (Thai rice noodles with chicken), Khao Man Gai (Thai chicken and rice), Look Chin Moo (Asian pork meatballs) and Suki Haeng (Thai noodle dish). Ask for recommendations from the locals.
2. Dress appropriately when visiting temples. Keep your shoulders covered. Hemlines should be knee-length or more. A t-shirt and long pants will stand you in good stead in such places.
3. Venture off the beaten track to places like Khanom, Chiang Dao, Talay Bua Daeng, Sukhothai Historical Park and Koh Kood. Hire local guides to give you the lowdown on underrated Thai experiences that most visitors forgo.
4. Just like Indians, most Thais reserve their right hand for 'pure' activities like eating food and presenting objects to someone. This is because the left hand is considered dirty as it's related to cleaning up after oneself in the toilet. Be mindful of the hand you use when interacting with people.
5. You're in the Land of Smiles so don't forget to lift the corners of your lips and break out in to a wide-toothed grin. Smiles play a variety of functions in Thai life: they are used to negotiate, apologise, show embarrassment and give thanks. Always return a smile.
6. Beat the heat and humidity of Thailand by using deodorant when outdoors and take a shower once or twice a day. Body odour is frowned upon as it impinges on Thai values of cleanliness and good personal hygiene. Take advantage of self-service laundromats and wash your clothes often.
7. Use the provided cutlery when eating food. Thais use spoon and forks to eat, not knives. Hold the spoon in your right hand if you're right-handed and use the fork to funnel food onto the spoon. Most food is already cut into bite-sized chunks but if you're having trouble with a bigger piece then use the side of the spoon to break it down. Chopsticks are only used when eating noodles and Chinese food.
