So you’ve planned a trip to South East Asia and finally settled on a vacation in Thailand to see this country of many sights and wonders. Now before you make your itinerary, book your flights and hotels and pack your bags, take note of these tips before going on a Thailand vacation.
Wai, Speak Softly, and Smile
First of all, you should remember that politeness and basic manners are important in any part of the world, and Thailand is certainly no exception. The traditional Thai greeting is called “wai”, it is putting both your hands in a prayer position front of your forehead, chin or chest, just follow the level of the person who gave you the “wai” and you’ll be fine. But do not “wai” to children and servants, but doing so to monks is sometimes acceptable.
The Thais are a generally congenial people and respond better to soft words and polite gestures rather than shouting and screaming your lungs out due to a small misunderstanding. Remember you’re a visitor and it’s their country.
Matters of the Feet
Let us then begin with matters of the feet. In many Thai homes and temples, shoes are a no-go and residents expect visitors to remove their shoes before entering the premises. This is not merely for religious or cultural reasons but also to make sure that the floors stay clean hence, less dirt and less mess. As a substitute to shoes, many houses have footwear for visitors which are only to be used inside the home.
Also, you should not point your feet at anyone, intentionally touch anyone with your feet or use your feet to point or indicate something. This is also pretty basic as cultures don’t enjoy having to be called by, touched with or pointed at with feet. So basically, keep your feet to yourself.
Calling for Service
When you’re in a restaurant calling a server or hailing a cab or signaling to anyone in general, you should wave your palm face down, as if you were patting a particularly friendly dog, hooting, whistling, and snapping your fingers are considered rather impolite.
The Monarchy
Thailand still retains its Monarchy and its members are held in the highest respect by all Thais. As such, avoid jokes or rude remarks about the Thai Monarchy or any member of the monarchy and their images, most especially do not step on money as it also contains an image of the King. If you’re thinking of trying some of these things, you should take note of the fact that Thailand strictly implements its Lèse majesté laws or crimes which violate the dignity of the reigning sovereigns, to locals and foreigners alike.
Respect the Religion
Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, as such, any offensive gesture or any sign of disrespect to Buddhist temples, figures and traditions carries heavy penalties. Also when in temples, remove your footwear, avoid touching any part of the monks or their robes and do not lean or climb Buddhist statues.
Other Basic Tips
- Avoid bringing your valuables when you’re walking around and seeing the sights. Just bring enough money and a little extra for emergencies and store these in separate places. Most hotels in Thailand have in-room safes for your valuables or you can leave them at the front desk.
- Water is an important component in the bodily functions of humans but please avoid drinking, gargling or brushing your teeth with water from the faucet. Purified water is cheap and readily available so spend that little extra change so you won’t have to spend a lot more on medicines and medical bills. Also, most restaurants in the cities use purified water for cooking but if you’re unsure ask your waiter or waitress.
- When taking a taxi around the cities, you should always insist on using the installed meter. If the driver wants refuses then go down and flag down another cab. For travels outside the city or farther distances then you can negotiate the fare with your driver but be sure to pay him only once you’ve reached your intended destinations. When dealing with Tuk-tuk drivers, the price will be based on negotiations so be sure to pay them only when you’re where you want to be.
- Lastly, for your safety, do not accept food or drinks from strangers and be extra wary of friendly strangers and their equally friendly drivers who offer you give you a tour or show you a sight, be polite but firm, you’re a guest not a victim.
These few guidelines should help to keep you out of trouble and make Thailand vacation a pleasant and memorable one.
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