Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
People of Chinese ancestry, many of whom have been in Thailand for generations,
make up over 14% of the population. Other large minority groups include Vietnamese in
the east, Khmer in parts of the northeast, Lao spread throughout the north and northeast,
and Muslim Malays in the far south. Smaller non-Thai-speaking groups include the hill
tribes living in the northern mountains.
DOS & DON'TS
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Because Thai money bears a picture of the king, don't step on a dropped bill to prevent it from
blowing away.
»
Stand respectfully for the national anthem, which is played at 8am and 6pm.
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Rise for the royal anthem, which is played in cinemas before every screening.
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Don't get a tattoo of the Buddha, as the culture ministry is seeking to ban the practice and it is
viewed as being sacrilegious.
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Greet people with a smile and a cheery
sà·wàt·dee kráp
if you're male or
sà·wàt·dee kâ
if you're fe-
male.
»
Bring a gift if you're invited to a Thai home and take off your shoes when you enter.
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Lower your head slightly when passing between two people having a conversation or when passing
near a monk.
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Dress modestly (cover to the elbows and the ankles) for temple visits and always remove your shoes
when you enter any building that contains a Buddha image.
»
Never step over someone or his personal belongings.
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Avoid tying your shoes to the outside of your backpack where they might accidentally brush against
someone.
Religion
Country, family and daily life are all married to Theravada Buddhism (as opposed to the
Mahayana schools found in East Asia and the Himalaya). Every Thai male is expected to
become a monk for a short period in his life since a family earns great merit when a son
'takes robe and bowl'.
More evident than the philosophical aspects of Buddhism is the everyday fusion with
animist rituals. Monks are consulted to determine an auspicious date for a wedding or the
likelihood of success for a business. Spirit houses are constructed outside buildings and
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