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Thailand has become a favorite tourist destination for travelers from all around the world, due to its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.
Understanding and respecting local customs and traditions will create a meaningful and respectful travel experience. Asia King Travel will provide 10+ key taboos and cultural sensitivities in this article.
Lèse-majesté or lese-majesty means offense or defamation to majesty. Thailand’s lèse-majesté laws are among the strictest in the world, and the Thai people hold their monarchy in deep reverence.
Taboo #1: Disrespecting the Royal Family
Mocking the royal family or any members, including the King, will lead to severe legal repercussions, especially imprisonment. When talking about the monarchy, visitors should show respect and avoid any behavior that could be interpreted as insulting.
If you go to the movies, you need to stand up when everyone around you stands up. Usually, the movie will show a short clip about the king at the beginning of the movie. Follow the locals' practices to show respect to the king.
The King’s image appears on Thai currency, making it a symbol of national pride and respect. Stepping on Thailand's money is considered highly disrespectful.
If you drop a coin or a bill, do not step on it to stop it from moving. Instead, pick it up gently to show proper respect.
Step on Thai currency
The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture. Therefore, it seems invasive and disrespectful to touch someone’s head, even affectionately. To maintain proper social etiquette, do not touch the heads of both adults and children.
Thai people consider feet as the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Pointing your feet at people or religious objects, sitting with your feet pointing toward others, or placing your feet on tables or chairs is considered highly disrespectful.
Always sit with your feet tucked away and avoid pointing them at people or sacred objects. It is best to observe the locals and follow suit to avoid exposing your feet.
Thai society does not accept public displays of affection (PDA) as they value good manners and modesty. Tourists might be surprised by this taboo as they think Thai people are very open.
Taboo #4: Public displays of affection
While it might be acceptable to hold hands, it doesn't happen the same to kiss and hug. A respectful distance in public aligning with local norms is helpful for couples when you visit Thailand.
Taboo #5: Disrespecting religious practices and symbols
Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, and deeply admires reigious symbols. Climbing on statues, pointing your feet at them, or taking disrespectful photos are not allowed. Instead, always behave with reverence in and around religious sites.
When visiting Thailand's temples, you need to dress modestly by covering your shoulders, midriff, and knees to show respect. Men should wear long pants, and women should wear long skirts or trousers.
If you do not obey these dress codes, you can be denied entry and offend locals.
The concept of "saving face" is crucial in Thai culture. Raising your voice, losing your temper, or engaging in confrontations is seen as a loss of face and causes controversy.
You should be concerned about maintaining a calm and polite manner, even in bad or stressful situations, to show respect and understanding to others, especially in public.
In particular, you must not shout loudly or argue with Thai people. This will cause you to get into a lot of trouble when in their country. You should keep a moderate volume when speaking.
The Thai national anthem is usually played in public places at 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM daily. When you hear the anthem, stop walking around and stand still to show respect. Following local practice during these times is a simple way to show respect for Thai customs.
Due to Thailand's customs, you should remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain buildings, including temples.
When entering a building, notice the guide signs or follow the lead of locals. This practice helps keep indoor spaces clean and shows respect for the property.
The "wai" is a traditional Thai greeting involving a slight bow with hands clasped together in a prayer-like position. It is used to say hello, thank you, show hospitality and respect to others.
Do the "wai" correctly by observing locals, and match the formality of your gesture to the situation. Avoid overly elaborate or insincere gestures.
Taboo #9: Saying "wai" incorrectly or at the wrong time
For instance, if you want to apologize, your hands will be placed high and the greeting will be longer. In addition, when you meet your Thai boyfriend or girlfriend's family, the greeting will be longer too. When expressing gratitude to others, do "wai" with a sincere smile.
Read more: Navigating Thailand's Weather: A Guide for Discerning Travelers
In Thailand, the right hand is used for giving and receiving items, and the left hand is considered unclean or impure. In formal situations, use both hands to show additional respect. This action is especially important in social and business interactions.
When dining in Thailand, avoid using your own spoon to serve food from communal dishes; instead, use the provided serving spoons. Do not leave knives on the table and avoid using chopsticks unless necessary.
Taboo #11: Taboos in Thai food
Take only what you can eat and finish all the food on your plate to avoid waste and show appreciation. This will help to create a good impression of the local people.
Above are the key taboos tourists need to notice when travelling to Thailand. Respecting cultural taboos is essential for a respectful and enriching travel experience.
This summer is the ideal time for you to explore the Land of Golden Temples. Asia King Travel's Thailand tours are ready-made to suit every interest and desire. Enjoy your trip to Thailand, and make the most of your journey by being a considerate traveler.
Read more: Procedures for applying for a tourist visa to Thailand
