 Dos and Don'ts in Thailand
You can call Thai people their first names, and may use the title "Khun" (pronounce "koon" but make it shorter like "kun")for adults, both man and woman. Thais never call each other by using the family names.
The thai and The shoe : It is acceptable to wear shoes when walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the hall of worship where the principal Buddha image is kept.
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.
Thai Royal Family : The monarchy of Thailand is held in great respect by Thai people, and visitors should show proper respect also. It cannot be stated strongly enough to not say or do anything disrespectful or disparaging towards the king, the queen, or any member of the royal family. At worst, this may lead to arrest and imprisonment, at least this may lead to a confrontation by a Thai who was greatly offended at hearing the foreign visitor bad-mouth the monarchy.
Gestures & Attitudes : Thais almost always greet each other with a wai (placing your hands together prayer-like). If someone wais you, it is very polite to wai back. A smile and a friendly sawadee khrap/ka will always be looked upon favorably by Thais. One major point to remember is to never show anger. As a visitor to a foreign country, situations will occur that may upset you greatly. Keeping a cool head is important in settling any differences, and any disputes can normally be taken care of through simple diplomacy. Talking loudly is perceived as rude by most Thais, whatever the situation. The pushy "farang" often gets taken care of last!
Feet and Head : A persons feet are the lowest part of the body (spiritually and physically). Do not point your feet at people or things, do not prop your feet up while sitting, and never touch any part of someone else's body with your foot.
The head is the highest part of the body. Do not touch Thais on their heads! If you accidently touch someone's head, immediately apologize or you will be considered as extremely rude.
Social Etiquette : In the big cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Western customs are well known
and widely accepted. Upcountry, traditional customs and social behavior are
still used. Here are a few customs to keep in mind.
Thais greet each other with a ‘wai’, a prayer-like, palms-together gesture, not a handshake. Generally, a younger person ‘wais’ an elder or senior person, who will then return the gesture. Even though most Thais are familiar with the Western handshake, a ‘wai’ is always appreciated.
Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body, literally and figuratively. Don’t touch Thais on the head, even playfully. If you accidentally touch someone’s head, offer an apology immediately.
Similarly, the foot is considered the lowest part of the body. Don’t use your feet to point at either people or objects. Don’t touch anyone with your feet. Don’t rest your feet on tables or chairs. Don’t step over people – always walk around or politely ask them to move. When sitting on the floor, try to tuck your feet underneath and to the side so they’re not pointing at anyone.
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