|
Do's and Don't in Thailand
THE MONARCHY
The first thing that a visitor should understand is the deep, traditional reverence that the Thai people have for the Royal Family. Show respect for the King, the Queen and the Royal Children at all times.
RELIGION
Dress neatly in all religious shrines. Never go topless, or in shorts, hot pants or other unsuitable attire. One can wear shoes when walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel where the Buddha image is kept.
A Buddha image, in whatever size or state, is regarded as sacred. Never do anything which might indicate a lack of respect. 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, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it.
GREETING
Wai is the traditional Thai greeting. Pressing the palms together in a prayer-like gesture when greeting someone is called a Wai. Generally a younger person wais an elder, who returns it.
HEAD AND FEET
The head is regarded as the highest part of the body in Thailand, literally and figuratively. Avoid touching people on the head and do not point your feet at people or an object of reverence. It is considered very rude.
SHOES
Remove shoes when entering a private Thai home.
DISPLAY OF AFFECTION
Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon.
LITTERING
Do not litter. Fines are imposed on persons littering or spitting in public places.
DRUGS
Do not get involved with drugs. The penalties are very severe.
PERSONAL SAFETY
Although Thailand is safe as compared to many other countries, observe normal precautions to safeguard yourself and your property. Avoid walking alone on deserted streets and be sure to lock your valuables and travel documents in a secure place.
GUIDES
Beware of unauthorised people who offer their services as guides. For all tourist information, contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tel : 1672. For information about Bangkok, contact the Bangkok Metropolitan Tourist Bureau, Tel : 0 2225 7612-4.
TIPPING
Tipping is not a usual practice in Thailand although it is becoming prevalent in the tourist areas. Most hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. In a non-5 star restaurant where service charge is not added, it is the usual practice to leave the loose change plus maybe another 20 baht as tip. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but the gesture is appreciated.
|
