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Most
Thai are very forgiving about social mistakes, but trying to
honor Thai standards, shows the Thai that the traveler has respect
for their values. Here are some important taboos whose observance
is prudent, if one does not want to be thought of as "bad
mannered". These are a few things that tourists should keep
in mind.
- 1. Temper . However frustrating the
situation, never lose your temper. The person who loses his temper
loses face. Be Thai and just keep calm and smile.!!
- 2. Sensitivity. The Thai are extremely
self-conscious, and hate to be teased, especially in front of
their friends.
- 3. Criticism
. Never
criticize a Thai or anything Thai. The Thai are a proud people,
and proud of their country. Criticizing the King or a member
of his family could result in you being hospitalized.
- 4. Patience
. The Thai
are extremely patient, and will wait hours for a bus or train
without complaint. They just don't understand Westerners preoccupation
with the time. Don't expect Thais to be punctual - they rarely
are. It is practically impossible to get into an argument with
a Thai. They just smile back and wait for the storm to pass.
- 5. Modesty . Most Thais are extremely
modest about nudity, and when undressing will wrap a towel around
them to slip off their trousers. The towel will not be removed
until the firmly tucked up under the sheets. Some more experienced
Thais have learnt that many Farang walk around a hotel
room stark naked, but this can and does embarrass many Thais.
Most Thais are part horrified and part fascinated by Farang
men on the beach disporting themselves in thong style swim wear,
and women going topless.
- 6. English . Many Thais can read or
write English better than they can speak it. If you don't understand
each other, write it down.
- 7. Touching. Never, never, touch the
top of someone's head , even someone you are sleeping with. The
head is the most sacrosanct part of the body. Likewise, the Thai
will be astounded if you touch their feet, as feet are considered
dirty and lowly. Once the relationship is established, you can
ask permission to do these things. Never touch any part of woman
in public, not even holding her hand. You will see modern young
straight Thai lovers holding hands, but they are imitating Western
styles. It is perfectly OK. for two men or women to hold hands,
but no assumptions should be made as to their sexuality.
- 8. Fingers and
Feet . Never
point at anybody. The feet, being dirty (even if yours are not)
should never be used to point at anything, to stop a rolling
coin, to move something aside, or be placed on furniture, even
on the back of the seat in front of you in the bus or train.
Feet should be kept firmly pointing at the ground, even when
sitting. Don't step over anyone - ask them to move, even if they
are sleeping on the pavement..!
- 9. Cleanliness
& Attire.
The Thai, however poor, are almost always smartly turned out
and well scrubbed. Westerners strolling into public places wearing
beach clothes, being unshaven or otherwise unkept, cause either
amusement or consternation. If visiting a temple or Royal Palace,
shorts and sleeveless shirts or blouses are taboo as they would
most likely in your country. Including when you are walking on
the street
- 10. Demeanor. Try to avoid being too
high, either in height or manner. When walking past a group of
people sitting down, bow your head, and walk, if possible, behind
them.
- 11. Shoes . Shoes are always removed
before entering someone's home or a temple.
- 12. Kissing
. Polite
Thais never kiss in public, not even in a restaurant, bar, so
wait until you get behind closed doors.
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When
was the last time you were Amazed ?XX
Tourism
Authority of Thailand |
