Do's and
Don'ts in Thailand
Thais are known for their tolerance and hospitality, and the average
tourist will have no difficulty in adjusting to local customs. All
the same, as in any unfamiliar society, a visitor should be aware
of certain do’s and don’ts to avoid accidentally offending people.
Basically, getting along involves good common sense and how one
should behave at home. Still, there are a few special tips for travelers
to Thailand.
The Monarchy
 Thais
revere the Royal Family, and visitors should be careful to show
respect for His Majesty the King, the Queen and their children.
In a movie theater, for example, a portrait of the King is shown
during the playing of the royal anthem, and movie-goers are required
to stand up. When attending a public event, at which a member of
the Royal Family is present, watch the crowd and do what it does.
Religion
 Thai
law has special sections on religious offenses covering not only
Buddhism, the religion of most Thais, but also other faiths in the
Kingdom. It is unlawful to commit any act to an object or a place
of religious worship in a manner to insult the religion. It is also
unlawful to cause any disturbance at an assembly engaged in religious
worship or ceremonies or to dress up or use the symbols of a priest
novice, holy man or clergymen.
Here are a few tips on what to do and what not to do when visiting
a religious place:
- All Buddha images, large or small, ruined or not, are regarded
as sacred. Do not climb on or do not do anything that would
show lack of respect.
- Dress neatly. Do not go to a temple shirtless or in shorts.
Pants are considered unsuitable attire for women visiting a
temple. If you have any questions, guides or officials at each
temple will provide instructions for appropriate dress and behavior.
- It is acceptable to wear shoes while walking around the compound
of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel where the principal
Buddha image is kept.
- In a Muslim mosque, men should wear hats and women should
be well covered with slacks or a long skirt, a long sleeved
blouse buttoned to the neck, and a scarf over the head. Everyone
should remove her/his shoes before entering the mosque and should
not be present during a religious gathering.
- Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman
or to accept anything from the hand of one. If a woman has to
give anything to a monk or novice, she must first hand it to
a man who will then present it to the monk. In case a woman
wants to present something herself, the monk or novice will
spread out a piece of saffron robe or a handkerchief for the
woman to place the object on before it can be picked up or handled.
Social Customs: Do’s and Don’ts
The don’ts of everyday Thai social behavior are less clearly defined
than those concerning the monarchy or religion, especially in Bangkok
where western customs are widely accepted. However, what is acceptable
in Bangkok may not be the same in the countryside where traditional
ways are still strong. Here are few examples:
- Thais do not normally shake hands when they greet each other,
but instead press the palms of their hands in a prayer-like
gesture called “wai”. Generally, a younger person should give
a wai to older person, who will then return it.
- It is considered rude to use your foot for pointing, especially
when pointing at a person. Try to avoid pointing your foot when
sitting opposite to someone.
Thais regard their head as the highest part of the body. They
do not approve of touching anyone’s head, even in a friendly
gesture. At social gatherings, young Thais go to considerable
length to keep their head lower than those of their elder’s,
to avoid giving the impression of looking down on them. This
is not always possible, of course, but it is the effort that
counts.
- Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned
upon. You may see some young Thai couple holding hands but never
kissing in public.
- 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.
- Do not be surprised if you are addressed by your first name,
e.g. Mr. Bob or Ms. Mary, instead of your last name. This is
because Thais refer to one another in this manner, usually with
the title Khun (Mr., Mrs., or Ms,) in front.
Advice to Visitors on Arrival
 The
following tips are also helpful for arriving tourists.
- Visitors arriving at Don Muang International Airport should
use only authorized transportation services from the airport
to the city and other areas. Please contact service counter
in the arriving passenger greeting area behind customs.
- Those who need help with accommodations should consult the
Thai Hotel Association counter in the passenger greeting area.
- Avoid unauthorized people who offer their services as guides.
Contact any reliable travel agent for a guide or Tourism Authority
of Thailand (TAT) counter for all tourist information.
- Visitors should consider using taxi services available at
most major hotels.
- Observe common sense precautions regarding personal safety
and the safety of your belongings. Walking alone in the dark
or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all your
valuables are protected. Never let your property out of sight
if you can help it.
- Travel information is available at TAT counter in the passenger
arrival lounge at terminal 1 (Tel. 523-8972-3), terminal 2 (535-2669),
or at the head office on Ratchadamnoen Nok Ave. (282-9775-6),
and temporary office on Bumrung Muang Rd. (266-0075-6)
- Visitors needing assistance in safety, security, or unethical
business practices can call Tourist Assistance Center in Bangkok
at 281-5051 or 282-8129 or the Tourist Police at 255-2964-8
or 255-1699
- Penalties for drug offenses are severe in Thailand. Do not
become involved with drugs.
Shopping Advice
A wide variety of souvenirs made locally are available at fair prices
in Thailand. For those who do not have much time and do not want
to bother bargaining, the products are available at fixed prices
in department stores. Bargains can be found at small shops or with
street vendors. Popular items include silk and leather products,
silverware, ceramics, and items carved out of softwood. Thailand’s
jewelry is renowned for its craftsmanship and relatively low prices.
However, necessary precautions should be taken before buying jewelry:
- Disregard all strangers’ offers of free assistance or services.
Shopkeepers pay a 10-30 percent commission to people who bring
them customers and the price will be increased accordingly.
- Compare and negotiate the price of jewelry in different shops
before buying.
- Note that any claim made by a shopkeeper that purchases can
be refunded at Thai embassies, consulates, or other government
agencies abroad is false
- Make sure that all documents such as receipts, quality certificates,
and credit card slips clearly indicate the name and address
of the shop and the full purchase price.
- Be aware that it is the general practice of jewelry shops
in Thailand that all goods, once purchased, cannot be returned.
However, if refund is offered, usually 25-30 percent of the
purchase price will be deducted. Some reputable companies will
take back jewelry for a full refund within 30 days after purchase.
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