Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Respect Buddha Images
Generally it is okay to take photographs of Buddha images, but refrain from pointing
your finger directly at the image. When you sit in front of a Buddha image, be careful
not to point your toes toward it. Sit cross-legged, or with your legs to one side, point-
ing backwards.
The Wai
The traditional Thai greeting is made by pressing one's hands together just below
the chin. It looks similar to the Western prayer gesture. Many Thais, especially busi-
nessmen, are accustomed to shaking hands nowadays, but most hotel staff and other
Thais will greet you with a
wai
. It is usually polite to
wai
in return.
Apologies
If you offend a Thai, you can apologize by making the
wai
gesture to that person. He
will usually accept your apology after that, and the episode will have passed. This can
smooth over trivial offences, such as bumping into someone in the street, or serious
offences, such as a verbal altercation.
Control Your Temper
Thai culture encourages even-headedness. You often hear Thais say,
mai pen rai
,
which roughly means “never mind”, “no problem” or “it is not important.” Disagree-
ments or mistakes should not lead to raised voices. Losing your temper is considered
a loss of face, and it is frowned upon.
