5 popular Thai customs

5 popular Thai customs

If you are planning on moving to live in any foreign country it is important to learn the customs and traditions of that country. This is especially true if moving from the Western world to the East.

The cultural differences between Thailand and somewhere like the United Kingdom or the United States are so vast that some foreign visitors cause offence without meaning to do so.

This page briefly explains 5 popular Thai customs in the hope that it may help you to settle into your new life more easily.

1. Religion. Thailand is the most predominantly Buddhist country anywhere in the world, with an estimated 95% of the population following the Buddhist religion. Thailand has some of the most beautiful temples in the world, but always remember to dress conservatively when visiting any temple. It is easy to forget this when the country is so hot and laid back.
2. The Monarchy. Thai people love their Royal Family and the King of Thailand is the longest reigning monarch in the world. Until you have lived amongst Thai people for a very long time it is difficult to understand their true feeling of love towards the King and the amount of work he has done to help the poor of the country. Be careful when discussing this subject with Thai people from all backgrounds.
3. Greeting. One of the most easily noticeable differences when a foreign visitor first comes to Thailand is the traditional Thai greeting; the Wai. Thai people press the palms of their hands together and bow their heads with the tips of their fingers pressed to their face. You should Wai at varying levels, in accordance to whom you are greeting. A safe bet, until you learn the differences, is to Wai everybody with your fingertips on the end of your nose.
4. Thai Traditional Dancing. A must for any new visitor to Thailand is to go and see a traditional Thai dance show. The elegant way the dancers move, coupled with the extravagant and elaborate costumes makes you feel like you have entered another world. There aren’t really any pointers to not cause offence here, just sit back and enjoy the show. You easily book a full show including traditional Thai cuisine and music and this is often the most convenient way to enjoy the night.
5. Body parts. This Thai tradition is probably most difficult for Westerners to understand and remember. Thai people see that the head is the closest thing to ‘heaven’ and therefore the most sacred part of the body. Our feet are lowest and are also on the floor so they are therefore dirty. When in Thailand try to remember to never point your feet at anyone (especially a Buddha image) and never touch anyone’s head.

All this said, Thailand is one of the most laid back places in the world and if you try to show consideration to Thai people and Thai traditions it is very difficult to offend anybody. You will just have a wonderful time.