You want to discover foreign countries and get to know the country, its people and traditions? That’s good. And if you manage to adapt your behavior to local customs and practices, all the better because it shows your appreciation of the locals. This is true all over the world. In our blog today, you can read about the things you have to watch out for during your vacation in Thailand to avoid putting your foot in it.

Hello there? The right greeting

In Thailand, people do not greet each other with a handshake, but place their palms together at chest level and bow slightly. Thai people call this form of greeting “Wai”. However, it is difficult to make exactly the right movement with head and upper body.

If you want to address a Thai directly, you must use his first name and prefix it with Khun. Khun applies equally to man or woman. From head to toe – the meaning of the body parts the head has the most dignified meaning in Thailand. According to Buddhist belief, the head is the seat of the soul and therefore the most sacred part of the body. You should therefore never touch a Thai on the head. Also, do not give a small child a friendly brush through the hair.

Left, or right?

In Thailand, it is simple: Right because the left hand is considered unclean because it is used for cleaning on the restroom. So, you should never point at people with your left hand. Also, when paying, receiving food or anything else, it is best to use only your right hand.

Just like the left hand, the feet are considered unclean and unworthy. When you are sitting on the floor with Thais, make sure that your toes are not pointing towards a person, a Buddha statue or a picture of the royal family.

Respect for the Royal Family and Religious Sites

Whenever the national anthem is played on TV, radio, in the cinema or even outdoors, all Thais present stand up, put their right hand on their heart and stop what they are doing. This often happens in the morning at 8:00 and in the evening at 18:00. Do it the same way, as foreigners are also expected to stand up and interrupt their activity in honor of the king.

The royal family is especially loved and revered in Thailand, so avoid any critical remarks about the royal family or offensive behavior. There is even a law that makes insulting the king a punishable offense. You can be imprisoned for up to 30 years for this! And beware, this also applies to anything with the king’s likeness. For example, if you step with your foot on a banknote with the king’s image on it, it is considered an insult to his majesty.

Temples and religious symbols

Buddhist monks, Buddha statues, and other religious symbols should also be treated with due respect should be treated with due respect. Beachwear is not appropriate when visiting a temple. It is also customary to remove your shoes before entering the interior of a sacred site. You should also leave them outside the door when you enter a private house.

Small peculiarities

Customs and superstitions characterize people in all countries of the world, some of them are surprising for foreign guests. This also applies to Thailand: You want to have your hair cut during your vacation? It’s best not to plan it for Wednesday. Many people believe that this brings bad luck. Many barbershops are therefore closed on this day.

You should also clean the house of your vacation home during the day, otherwise it looks bleak for your travel budget. Thai superstition says that you must not clean at night otherwise the money will disappear from the house.

Finding the right tone

Since Thais are a very friendly, polite and reserved people, you should always try not to be loud and rude – even if there might be a reason to be. With a smile on your face, the problem can be solved just as easily.

In Thailand people are always smiling. With a smile, you can apologize, say thank you and return a Wai greeting. A nice custom! And if you still have room in your suitcases for a smile or two, just take it home with you!

Are you planning a trip to Thailand? Or a great vacation trip in general? Then take a look at this: HOW TO PACK MORE SUSTAINABLE

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