customs and values
The ‘Wai’
One of the most distinctive Thai customs is the ‘wai’. Showing greeting, farewell, or acknowledgement comes in several forms
reflecting the relative status of those involved. Generally the salutation involves a prayer-like gesture with both hands placed on the
chest and may include a slight bow of the head. This salutation is often accompanied by a serene smile symbolizing a welcoming
disposition and a pleasant attitude. This is why Thailand is often referred to as the ‘Land of Smiles’.
Absolute Reverence to the King and Royal Family
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy and the royal family is highly revered. The King is especially beloved for his decades of public
service and humble demeanour. His image is everywhere, from posters displayed on the exterior of buildings to photos displayed
in public taxis. All images of the royal family must be treated respectfully. Always stand when the King’s anthem is played in public
areas and before movies, concerts and sporting events. A negative or disparaging remark about the royal family must never be
made and strict penalties are implemented.
Public Displays of Affection should be Avoided
Public displays of affection are not common in traditional Thai society, especially between lovers. Friends may be seen walking
together holding hands, but couples rarely do so except in Westernized areas.
Do Not Touch Heads
Touching someone on the head may be considered rude. It is also considered rude to place one’s feet at a level above someone
else’s head, especially if that person is of higher social standing. This is because Thais consider the foot to be the dirtiest and
lowliest part of the body with the head as the most respected and highest part. This also influences how Thais sit when on the
ground—their feet always pointing away from others, tucked to the side or behind them. Thus pointing at or touching something
with the feet is considered rude.
Never Point with One Finger
Do not pass anything with your left hand or point with one finger. When eating, it is considered rude to blow your nose or to lick
your fingers. The right hand must be used to pick up food eaten with the fingers.
Remove Shoes before Entering a Thai Home
Shoes should be removed before entering Thai homes. Thais are very conscious about cleanliness and wearing of shoes inside is
not appreciated. Stepping over the threshold upon entry (rather than on it) will avoid offending any older or conservative members
of the family. Many schools and offices do not like outdoor shoes worn inside certain rooms. Always check at the door; if there are
shoes at the door, it generally means that shoes must not be worn inside the room.
Avoid Public Displays of Conflict or Anger
Care must be taken not to create conflict, display anger or cause a Thai to lose face. Disagreements or disputes should be handled
with a smile and no attempt should be made to assign blame to another. In everyday life in Thailand, there is a strong emphasis on
the concept of ‘sanuk’; the idea that life should be fun. Because of this, Thais can be quite playful at work and during day-to-day
activities.
Displaying positive emotions in social interactions is also important in Thai culture. Often, Thais will deal with disagreements, minor
mistakes or misfortunes by using the phrase ‘mai pen rai’, translated as ‘it doesn’t matter’. The ubiquitous use of this phrase in
Thailand reflects a disposition towards minimizing conflict, disagreements or complaints. A smile and the sentence ‘mai pen rai’
indicate that the incident is not important and therefore no conflict or shame is involved.
Decent Language
It is considered polite and of good breeding for everyone to use decent language in everyday conversation with others, regardless
of whether you are conversing in Thai or in English. On no account should you swear or use bad language when speaking to others,
since you will immediately be looked upon as bad-mannered and uneducated.
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