Basic Concept of the Thai Culture

Thailand is a proud nation with a lengthy history and entrenched, multifaceted hierarchal structure of status. Starting with the Royal family downward, everyone in Thailand knows and respects their position in society. Here are a few pointers that should be followed at all times if you want to avoid “loss of face” or embarrassing your host.

Never joke about the royal family. Thai people treat their king and his family with great reverence and thus should never be insulted or criticised. The king is the most highly esteemed figure and to this day and “lesse majeste laws” are taken very seriously.

Buddhism is Thailand’s national religion and monks must always receive a high level of respect. Women should never touch a monk or his robe. When handing an object to a monk, a woman should use male intermediary or place the object in a position where it can be received by the monk. A woman should never sit next to a monk on public transport.

Never elevate your voice, challenge or critique anybody in public. Thais, like Chinese people, have a sophisticated sense of public image and it is easy to cause someone to “lose face.” Self control and serenity will get you everywhere in Thailand!

The head is regarded as the most precious part of the body by Thais. Never touch a person (including children) on the head, or anywhere above the shoulders. By the same token, Thais regard the feet as the least sacred part of the body and it is considered offensive to point with the feet or even show the sole of the shoe or foot to another person. It is therefore necessary to take care when crossing your legs by pointing the toes downwards.

Thai people have a conservative nature, so it is important to dress suitably, especially when visiting temples and people’s homes. You should ensure that your legs and shoulders are covered when visiting temples.

Shoes are often removed when entering a private home or even some shops. Just look for shoes left outside doorways as a cue.

Going topless at the beach is frowned upon by all Thai people. Do not do this even if you see other people topless at major tourist beach locations.

Again, all this said don’t worry too much about trying to remember everything; generally Thais are a fun loving, forgiving race and will not hold genuine errors in etiquette against you!!!