Known for its many temples, picture-perfect beaches, and mouthwatering street food, Thailand is a dream destination for countless tourists around the world.
However, before you go and enjoy all that Thailand has to offer, it's important to learn about certain customs, traditions, and unwritten rules that will help you have a smooth-sailing trip (and stop you from looking rude).
Be Mindful of Your Feet
This one is quite straightforward. Avoid using your feet to point at Buddha, monks, other people, and statues. Don't prop your feet on tables, and do not stick them out in front of you as well.
Why? The locals believe that the feet are the dirtiest part of the body, so doing any of the above will make you look rude.
Dress Appropriately
This rule applies more for visits to temples and palaces, which require tourists to dress modestly. These are important, sacred landmarks for the locals, and it's expected for visitors to behave respectfully.
It's best to make sure that your knees and shoulders are covered when visiting such places, which means you should avoid wearing shorts and revealing clothing. Shirts with inappropriate designs are usually not allowed as well.
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Keep the PDA to a Minimum
Thailand is still largely a conservative nation, so to avoid getting uncomfortable looks, keep your public displays of affection to a minimum.
Hand holding is considered acceptable, but kissing and cuddling should be avoided when in public.
Return the Wai
The customary greeting in Thailand is known as wai. Essentially, you put your hands together with your fingertip facing upwards in a prayer-like position and offer a bow after.
Returning the wai to avoid showing disrespect, especially to elders and monks.
Show Respect for Monks
Monks are highly revered in Thailand, and any act showing disrespect towards them will be frowned upon. Avoid touching them and asking them too personal or too aggressive questions.
It may be odd to point this out, avoid touching their heads too. Or anyone's heads for that matter. It's considered rude.
Take Off Your Shoes
Taking your shoes off is customary in Thailand, especially when you visit homes, temples, and palaces. Some restaurants, cafes, and massage parlors may also require you to take off your shoes.
If you're not sure what to do prior to entering an establishment, keep an eye out for a row of shoes that signals that you have to take yours off.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
