Local Customs and Etiquette in Thailand

Local Customs and Etiquette in Thailand

Visiting Thailand is an incredible experience, but it’s important to understand the cultural norms to interact respectfully with the locals. Thailand’s culture is deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions, and knowing some basic customs will help you avoid unpleasant situations.

Greetings

The traditional Thai greeting is the “wai.” This involves pressing your palms together in front of your chest while slightly bowing your head. It’s more than just a simple gesture; it shows respect, and skipping it can sometimes be seen as disrespectful.

Locals will appreciate your effort if you return a wai when someone greets you this way. However, keep in mind that you don’t need to wai every single person, especially in informal situations. Typically, it’s done to show respect to elders or people of higher status.

In Thailand, people rarely shake hands. If you’re in a more formal environment with international business connections, a handshake might occur, but the wai is recommended first.

How to Respond to a Wai

If a person greets you with a wai, it’s polite to return the gesture—unless the person is of significantly lower status or much younger than you. For instance, if a child wai’s an adult, the adult won’t usually wai back but may smile or nod in acknowledgment.

Dress Code

Thailand is generally relaxed, but modesty is still important, especially at temples or in rural areas. While beachwear is fine at resorts or beaches, walking around in swimwear away from the coast isn’t respectful.

What to Wear at Temples

When visiting temples, both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. This is non-negotiable at most sacred sites. For women, that often means wearing a long skirt or pants, and for men, it’s best to avoid shorts. Avoid tank tops or clothing with offensive images.

Many temples will lend sarongs to cover up if you aren’t dressed appropriately, but planning your outfit better in advance shows more respect.

Manners Around Monks

Monks are revered in Thailand, and there are some key rules to follow when interacting with them. Firstly, women should never touch a monk, hand something directly to them, or sit next to them. If a woman needs to give something to a monk, she should place it on a table for him to pick up.

Likewise, men should avoid touching them unless necessary. Also, it’s polite to lower your head or body when passing by a monk to show your respect.

Monks often rely on offerings to live, and it’s common to see local people giving food or other essentials. You can participate, too; it’s a way to support their daily life while engaging with a key part of Thai culture.

Public Displays of Affection

Thailand is a conservative country, so public displays of affection (PDA) are frowned upon. Holding hands in public is okay, but kissing or hugging in public spaces, especially near temples or sacred sites, can make locals uncomfortable.

Although you might see tourists ignoring these customs, participating in such behavior can show disrespect for cultural norms.

Respecting Thai Royalty

The Thai Royal Family is highly respected, and showing any form of disrespect can lead to serious consequences. Don’t ever make jokes about the King or anyone in the Royal Family. Jokes, or even a casual mention in a negative manner, can land you in legal trouble.

You’ll notice pictures of the King in public places, including hotels and stores. If locals are bowing or showing respect to these images, don’t mock or ignore it. It’s good to pause and acknowledge, at least with a slight bow of the head.

Shoes On or Off?

One easy rule to follow is to look where locals are leaving their shoes. In Thailand, it’s standard practice to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. It’s a way to show respect for the cleanliness and sanctity of the space.

Many shops, guesthouses, and even some offices will have you leave your shoes outside. If you see a pile of shoes at the entrance, that’s your sign to take yours off too.

Always wear clean shoes or sandals, as dirty footwear is seen as disrespectful. If you know you’ll be removing shoes often, having slip-on shoes can be helpful.

Dining Etiquette

When eating with locals, you’ll notice that Thais often share food like family-style meals. Usually, many plates are placed in the middle of the table for everyone to share, and you’ll use your own spoon to dish portions onto your plate.

It’s polite to wait until the most senior person starts eating before you begin. Also, don’t shovel large amounts of food into your mouth. Thais typically take small bites with a spoon and a fork, but chopsticks are used for noodle dishes.

If you’re dining as a guest, it’s also polite to offer to pay the bill, though the server will often pay attention to the hierarchy of the group to know who should settle the check.

Appropriate Behavior in Temples

Temples are places of worship and should be treated with respect. Keep noise levels down, dress modestly, and refrain from taking selfies that feel inappropriate near religious icons.

When it comes to Buddha images—whether small statues or large figures in temples—take extra care. Climbing on or touching Buddha statues is never okay. Also, never point your feet directly toward Buddha images while sitting, as the feet are considered the lowest part of the body.

Sitting in the Temple

If you are invited to sit in a temple, try to sit with your feet tucked under you to avoid pointing them at religious figures or monks. You might notice that most locals sit with their legs folded to one side while keeping their feet away from holy objects.

Social Etiquette and Saving Face

In Thailand, “saving face” is an important cultural concept. Thais avoid confrontation and will do their best not to embarrass themselves or others. When you’re interacting with locals, avoid arguing or raising your voice.

If a situation doesn’t go in your favor, it’s often best to remain calm and polite. Thais highly value keeping the peace in public settings.

The Importance of Respecting Elders

Respecting elders is central to Thai culture. When addressing someone older than yourself, using polite language is essential. It’s common for Thais to address each other with “Pee” (for someone older) and “Nong” (for someone younger), along with the person’s first name.

Even though you might not have to use these terms as a traveler, they are good to know, and the locals will appreciate your understanding of the importance of respect.

Foot and Head Etiquette

In Thai culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body, while the feet are seen as the dirtiest. Never touch someone’s head, and avoid patting it, even in casual situations.

On the flip side, avoid using your feet to point at things or move objects. Never place your feet on tables or chairs, and don’t prop them up while sitting.

If you need to get past someone seated, step carefully to avoid brushing your feet against them. A polite bow or apologetic gesture from a safe distance is usually acknowledged with understanding.

Tipping in Thailand

Tipping isn’t a huge part of Thai culture, but it’s becoming more common in areas that see a lot of tourists. In many restaurants, especially at higher-end establishments, tipping 10% is appreciated.

For small street food stalls or tiny local restaurants, tipping is not expected. However, leaving behind small change can always be seen as a kind gesture.

Remember Basic Politeness

When in Thailand, one of the simplest ways to show respect is to be polite and show consideration to those around you. Greeting everyone with a smile, staying calm, and showing gratitude will go a long way with the locals.

Thais are usually very kind and understanding towards visitors who are making an effort to be respectful. So, even if you make small mistakes, the important thing is that you’ve tried to respect their traditions.