Some unique customs of Thailand

Thailand is the land of culture and heritage. Thailand is a Buddhist country where people are very polite and always smile towards each other. You will never see an angry face in Thailand. People are expected to be enough courteous at that place. Even if any foreigner violate the rule and do any sacrilegious acts, they immediately punished by imprisonment. It is not advisable to touch any Thai woman without their consent. In many cases it is seen that they are very conservative in nature. Mini skirts and short pants are not allowed in the Buddhist temple. So, you have to dress properly while in Thailand.

If you are in a plan to tan your body, think twice in Thailand because normally topless sunbathing is not allowed in Thailand. Thai people address other people with the title ‘khun’ and then their first name. Wai is their gesture to give respect to the elders. Head is regarded as noblest part of the body in Thailand. So, even if you touch someone’s head unintentionally, you should immediately offer serious apology to the concerned person. You should touch the table with foot while sitting. Avoid pointing anything by foot. It is considered discourteous or offensive if you touch any person by foot. Don’t forget to remove your shoes outside while entering in Thai temple or anyone’s house.

In Thailand showing affection between friends is common but displaying love between lovers is regarded as offensive. You can’t see any couple even holding their hands for a minute. You should never step in a coin in Thailand. It is considered as extremely discourteous. The reason behind this is as king’s face appeared on the coin it is highly offensive if you touch this with your foot. If you are visiting any Buddha temple be cautious that your feet are never pointed towards and Buddha image. Even in Thai residences, shrines are arranged in a manner that your feet will never point towards the god. Buddhist monks never come in contact with a woman so this point should be kept in mind that woman should always keep safe distance from Buddhist monks.

Etiquette in Pattaya

Thai people are really unique for their etiquette. Some of the social and cultural mannerisms make them totally different from the rest of the world. While visiting Pattaya or any other places in Thailand it is better to learn some of the etiquette used there. If any visitor shows that he knows something about Thai culture and etiquette h is most welcomed by the Thai people. Some of the etiquette are listed below.

Always keep smiling face: The Thai people always show happiness n their faces. So while in Pattaya don’t loose your temper and never show anger on your face.

Gestures: Thai people greet others with a polite gesture named ‘wai’. This is Thai gesture where they unite their hands to the chest. By doing this they show extreme respect where folded hands remain beneath the nose. Thai people always make it comfortable for the visitors.

Respect for Royal Family: King Bhumibol i.e. Rama IX and Queen Sirkit are the member of Royal family for Thais. While in Pattaya never show disrespect for the Royal family.

Dressing style: In Thailand you should be careful about your dresses. In public places you cannot wear improper dresses.

Respectful suffixes: In Thai society elders are referred as “pii”. Female elders are addressed as “Kha” while male elders are addressed as “Khrup”.

'Mai Pen Rai': When in Pattaya if you are spending bad times just say this in front of Thais. They would always show positive response towards this gesture.

Touching head: The heads are sanctified part of the body so avoid touching anyone’s head in Thailand.

Social Structure: In Thai society a complex and established social architecture is there. A person in high rank always offered due respect. Generally rank is determined based on post, age and wealth. The persons in high rank always behave in a proper way.

Public display: Thai don’t like showing affection in public. Holding hands is also regarded as improper gesture among the older generations.

Mannerisms: While you are in public places in Thailand you should be very careful about your mannerisms. Always keep a smiling face and gentle approach.