Some Important Dos and Don’ts in Thailand

In order to refrain from ruffling any feathers whilst on your holiday of a lifetime here are a few social, religious and common sense dos and don'ts.

The Thai people are well known for their welcoming manner and following their examples of social etiquette can help make your time with them enjoyable and relaxed. Thais see the head as the most important part of the body, the temple if you will, and as such you should not touch anyone on the head. You should also make an effort to keep your head lower than your elders, monks and priests. Obviously it is not always possible but making the effort to dip your head even if it doesn't make your lower than theirs is appreciated. The feet are the lowest part of your body and therefore it is disrespectful to point them at anyone, especially those older than you, monks, priests or any image of Buddha.

The Buddha is sacred in Thailand and there are many rules pertaining to your behaviour around it. Be respectful, do not pose in front of any statues, mock, deface or climb on them, as your disrespect will not go down well. Also, any images or statues of Buddha over five inches tall need an export permit, you can ask the shopkeeper whether they are willing to obtain one for you or you can apply for one at the local Fine Arts Department. If you do not get the export permit your souvenir may be taken away from you at the airport.

If you are visiting a Buddhist temple there are a few things that you must take into account. Firstly dress respectively, this is a place of worship not just a tourist attraction. Cover up as much as you can and remove your shoes when entering the temple. Monks are not allowed to touch, be touched by or receive anything directly from a woman so anything must be handed to a man first or placed on a piece of cloth which the monk can then draw towards them.

The people of Thailand have a deep love and respect for their monarchy, especially their king. Any jokes or complaints about them could leave you in very hot water. Whenever the national anthem is played it is customary to stop what you are doing and stand until it is over. In the cinema a portrait of the king is shown and the national anthem played before the film, again it is expected that you rise and stay standing until it finishes. If in doubt do as the Thai do.

There are also the obvious don'ts such as dealing with drugs, accepting drinks or lifts from strangers and buying gems from stores without the Jewel Fest Club sign. Keep a smile on your face and a cool head and your holidays in Thailand will be simply stunning.

Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.