Dos & Don'ts

Thailand is known for its warm hospitality and uniquely welcoming ways. However, that is not to say that anything goes. While Thai customs may not be as rigid as some cultures, there are still some big DOs and DON’Ts to be mindful of when travelling, visiting or living in Thailand.

DOs:

• Wai – A wai is placing the palms together in a prayer pose just under the chin. A wai can mean “Hello,” “Thank you,” “I’m sorry,” or “Goodbye.”A wai does have a bit of a hierarchy in its use – never use it for children, street vendors or laborers, even if they wai you. It’s not being snobby, it’s just inappropriate. In these cases, a simple smile or nod is enough. But it’s proper to use it in a restaurant or hotel or certainly in more formal situation like a business meeting or in more traditional settings like a private home.

• Say “Khun” – Khun proceeds a given name and is a sign of politeness and respect. For example, I would be called Khun Barbara. It’s the Western equivalent of saying Mr., Mrs. or Miss and is appropriate for use with everyone regardless of marital status or gender. And if you don’t know a person’s given name, it’s proper to address them as Khun.
• Eat with a spoon – the spoon is the main utensil in Thai eating. It not only serves the same function as a knife, but it is the utensil used to put food in the mouth. The fork is simply a rake to push food on the spoon.
• Smile, A LOT – Thais are very warm people and you will be surprised how a genuine smile can open an interaction or smooth the way in difficult situations. It is a simple and easy way to connect with people of any age or gender. Even when negotiating prices at a market, a smile goes a long way to closing the transaction.
• Do use “ka” and “krab” – If you are a woman, it is appropriate to end sentences or greetings with “ka.” For example, “sawasdee” is hello in Thai…as a woman, you would say “sawasdee ka.” If you are a man, your sentences should end with “krab,” so “sawasdee krab” is a proper hello.

DON’Ts:

• Directness is not appreciated – be very subtle in responding with less than favorable information or with a negative reply. In fact, there is no word for “No” in Thai language which will give you some clue as to how inappropriate a negative response is. It is common instead to explain the situation, for example, “We have a family commitment this Sunday otherwise we would love to join you for dinner.”
• Don’t get angry – losing your temper or being confrontational is a big no no. Not only will this achieve nothing, you will deeply embarrass the Thais that witness your outburst. In Thai culture, not only do you lose face, but you deeply upset those around you. Furthermore, it is completely non-productive in most situations, e.g. if your reservation is not on the books at a hotel, they will not be inclined to help you out and will avoid further interaction.
• Never touch the top of anyone’s head – the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai Buddhist culture. Even with children it is inappropriate to ruffle the hair. It’s so sacred that even hairdressers will solemnly ask permission before cutting hair.
• Don’t use feet inappropriately – on the flip side of Buddhist culture, feet are considered unclean as it is the lowest part of the body. So never rest your feet on a chair, or use your feet to touch or even move anything. This is probably one of the biggest offenses you can commit in Thailand.
• Don’t discuss the King – ever! You should always stand silently and respectfully when the King’s song is played – for example, it is played at the beginning of all movies in a theater and also on all public transportation stations at 6pm daily.
• Don’t kiss or cuddle in public – Thais openly frown on those who show public displays of affection. It is regarded as cheap and tawdry and of the lowest class. That said, it is quite common and perfectly OK for same gender friends to hold hands while shopping or walking down the street.

With these simple rules of etiquette or common courtesies in mind, you can be sure that any trip to Thailand will be smooth sailing. Be sure to remind yourself that you are the guest in someone else’s home when visiting a foreign country and it is always preferable to be a polite and respectful guest.