Thailand is a very tolerant society, and with great hospitality. The average tourist will have no difficulty in adjusting to local customs. But when it comes to visiting a different society, the visitor may find it interesting to know the missteps, and thus avoid compromising situations.
The monarchy
Thais love their King, do not criticize him, do not joke about everything about the Monarchy, you could end up in jail!
Buddhism
- When visiting temples, be careful not to wear short clothes. Inside a temple, you must also take off your shoes.
- The monks, recognizable by their saffron dress, should not sit near women. So in public transport (bus, subway, etc.), if you are a woman, leave an empty seat between a monk and you.
- Every image of Buddha is also sacred. Do not climb, or step on a representation of Buddha.
- Do not lengthen your legs towards a Buddha statue, but fold them on your knees.
Social norms
- The Thais generally do not shake hands to say hello, but join their hands together and bend their heads to perform a “wai”. As a tourist, however, you do not have to do this, no one will hold you against it.
- Thais consider the head as the noblest part of the body. It is not respectful to touch the head of another person (except exceptions)
- Feet should not point directly to people, or sacred representations.
- It is customary to take off your shoes outside houses or apartments.
- It’s very rude to point to a person.
General advice
- Drug use. New, very repressive laws have been established in Thailand against drug sellers and users. The “full moon party” tourist attractions on islands still wild in the south (open discos on the beaches), are also known as high places of illegal consumption. Note that police raids are common, and that the consumer is also subject to incarceration.
- Thefts of cameras, watches or purses are common on tourist beaches.
- Fines are possible if you throw in garbage (cigarettes, bottle, paper) on the floor, according to the new laws for urban cleanliness.
- It is not recommended if you are a woman to walk alone in Bangkok at night, as well as to take the taxi alone.
- Do not try to cross anywhere: buses, trucks, trucks etc … always have priority.