Thai customs can be easily overlooked. Avoid the side-eye by knowing these 5 points, whether you’re visiting or residing in Thailand.
1. Wai not?
The wai, or the act of pressing your palms together at chest or nose level and bowing your head slightly, is a gesture that you will see everywhere in Thailand. A fundamental part of Thai social and religious customs, the wai signifies respect and reverence, especially for elders. This versatile gesture can also be used to express hello, goodbye, or thank you.
2. Keep Your Cool.
The phrase “mai pen rai” (never mind) aptly captures locals’ good-natured manner and knack for brushing off annoyances or disappointment. Thais don’t like emotional outbursts, and losing one’s cool in public is considered impolite, and possibly offensive.
3. Respect National Pride.
Thais, especially those of the older generations, are quite nationalistic. In public, you’ll often hear the national anthem broadcast in the morning and early evenings. Pedestrians and commuters are expected to stop or stand whenever the song is played. Also, the royal family, especially the King and Queen, is deeply revered. Always stand when the King’s anthem is played before movies, concerts and sporting events.
4. From Head to Toe.
About 95% of Thailand’s population is Buddhist. Based on such beliefs, the head is the most valued part of the body while the feet are the lowest, symbolizing attachment to the ground, or a cause of human suffering. Touching someone’s head is highly offensive, as is pointing your feet at people or religious objects, stepping over a person seated on the floor, or sitting with your legs extended out in front of you.
5. Money Matters.
Do not haggle over prices in upscale shops and department stores. However, bargain to your heart’s content in open aired markets and street stalls (with the exception of food vendors). Also, while people don’t generally bargain over motorcycle taxi fares, it is acceptable to ask a tuk tuk driver to lower his quoted rate. In restaurants, tips of 10 to 15 percent will be appreciated. However, many restaurants will already add a 10 percent service fee to your bill; in such cases, no tip is required.
