top of page
  • Writer's pictureEllen

Thailand etiquette: do's and don'ts

Updated: Dec 3, 2019

Following a few simple rules of Thailand etiquette will prevent you from accidentally offending someone. I feel observing and respecting local culture also enhances my experience here. Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles” but the famous Thai smile has many meanings. Although Thai people are very forgiving of infractions when committed by farang (foreigners), observing below do's and don'ts will keep them smiling :-)


Don'ts

  • Don't point your feet: Pointing your feet at someone or simply putting your feet on a desk or chair are considered extremely rude in Thailand. The bottoms of the feet are dirty: don't show them to people. You should also avoid pointing feet at Buddhas in and outside of temples.

  • Don't point: Pointing at someone is considered rude in many cultures but particularly so in Thailand. If you must indicate a person, do so by lifting your chin in their direction. Pointing at animals is usually acceptable, but it's more polite to point with your entire hand rather than a single finger.

  • Don't lose your cool: Shouting, blowing your top, or displaying strong emotions is generally frowned upon in Thailand. You should always keep in mind the rules of saving face. Keep your cool even when things go wrong; you'll be respected for doing so.

  • Don't disrespect the king: You should never disrespect the king or images of the king, this includes currency - his picture appears on the Thai baht. People have received lengthy sentences for Facebook posts that spoke out against the monarchy.

Do's

  • Remove your shoes: As in many Asian cultures, removing your shoes before entering a temple or visiting someone's home is essential. Some businesses, restaurants, and shops also ask to remove your shoes. This is why simple footwear is a good idea in Southeast Asia ;-)

  • Return a wai: The wai is Thailand's prayer-like gesture with the hands together in front and head slightly bowed in order to greet a person. To not return a wai is considered impolite; only the king and monks do not have to return wais. Try not to wai while holding something in your hands; a slight bow will suffice.

  • Show respect to monks: When greeting a monk, be sure to show respect, and monks receive a higher wai than ordinary people; monks do not have to return your gesture. Women should never touch a monk, brush a monk's robes, or hand something to a monk.

  • Smile: The "Thai smile" is famous, essential to Thailand etiquette, and Thais show it whenever they can. Always return someone's smile.

I also brushed up my temple etiquette: dress modestly, greet monks with a wai, remove shoes, turn off your phone, don't point, don't smoke, don't photograph monks and don't touch Buddha. The past weekend, I got blessed by a monk and discovered my fortune. You have to shake a red cup until one stick slips out (if you throw out 2 or more that's bad luck). I had number 17 and yes, a lot of good fortune is coming my way! Last but not least, I met my birthday Buddha - as I was born on a Tuesday, I have a reclining Buddha posture that stands for power. This person is serious, brave and active most probably in the services. Lucky day: Thursday & unlucky day: Monday. Lucky color: yellow & unlucky color: white.

Bright future and success is yours. Never in a lifetime that you’ll be wretched. You’ll be loved and kind by all. You’ll always have good fortune like a fruitful plant never lack of fruits. Asking of a spouse, you surely will find one. If you’re expecting a child, it’s certain that a baby will be born. Your cousins and escaping debtors will be in touch. For you who are involved in a lawsuit, you’re likely to win the case.

51 views1 comment

Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page