Tips beyond Swa-De-Krub

Thais are known for their tolerance and hospitality, and the people will have no difficulty in adjusting to local customs. As in any unfamiliar society, a visitor should, nevertheless, be aware of certain do’s and don'ts to avoid offending people unintentionally. 

Basically, getting along involves good common sense and how one should behave at home. Still, there are a few special tips for people who want to visit Thailand. Thais do not normally shake hands when they greet each other, but instead press the palms of their hands in a prayer-like gesture.

• Thai people consider the head as the highest part of the body so don't touch their head with no reason, especially the elder's head because it means you don't respect them.
• The feet are the lowest part of the body and are considered a humble thing. To avoid a rude behavior, do not point anything or anyone with your feet.
• Hug or kiss between man and woman in public are acceptable in some country. But affection displayed in public is inappropriate in Thailand.
• Woman can't touch Buddhist monks and the monks can't directly take anything from woman's hand. If a woman wants to give something to a monk, the monk will spread the rope and the woman should lay down the thing on it.
• It is all right to wear the shoes when walk around the temple but when you want to go inside the church or chapel (where a Buddha image is kept) you should take off the shoes. The shorts are not recommended.
• Thai people have a deep respect to the royal family. The visitors should also show respect to the king, the queen and the royal family even if it is the picture. You should stand up to show the respect during the royal anthem in the theater.
• Seniority is one of the Thai ways. Show the respect to the elder or the parents of Thai friends.
• Losing your temper, especially in public, will most likely get you nowhere. Thais see such displays as poor mannerism. You have a greater chance of getting what you want if you keep a cool head and remain polite.