Destination Thailand

Etiquette

The Thai people are generally very friendly, hospitable, tolerant and always smiling. The Thai way is generally to avoid confrontation, which is considered to be rude. In fact there is a Thai term - ‘jai yen’ which translates as ‘cool heart’ and this typifies the Thai way. Some particular things to be aware of are:

The Royal Family

Members of the Thai Royal Family are held in very high esteem by all Thai people and the utmost respect is to be shown at all times. Images of the King or members of the Royal Family are to be seen everywhere and must be treated accordingly.

Monkhood

Monks cannot touch a woman or be touched by her and cannot receive anything directly from her. On public transport a woman should not sit next to a monk. There are often seats set aside for monks on public transport, for example at the rear of an up-country bus.

Suitable dress

Thai people are generally conservative, so it is important to dress appropriately at all times. Legs and shoulders should be covered when entering temples.  Topless bathing at the beach is frowned upon by all Thai people.

Head and feet

Thai people consider the head to be a sacred part of the body and should not be touched by others. Alternately, the feet are the lowest part of the body, so do not point with your feet and touch people on their head. When inside temples it is polite to sit with legs to one side so the feet are not towards the Buddha image.