Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ESSENTIAL ETIQUETTE
Dos
Stand respectfully for the national anthem
It is played on TV and radio stations as well as public and govern-
ment places at 8am and 6pm. If you're inside a building you don't have to stand.
Rise for the royal anthem
It is played in movie theatres before every screening.
Smile a lot
It makes everything easier.
Bring a gift if you're invited to a Thai home
Fruit, drinks or snacks would be acceptable; flowers are usually
for merit-making purposes not home decor.
Take off your shoes
When you enter a home, temple building or wherever there are sandals piled up at the door.
Lower your head slightly
When passing between two people having a conversation or when passing near a
monk; it is a sign of respect.
Dress modestly for temple visits
Cover to the elbows and ankles and always remove your shoes when entering
any building containing a Buddha image.
Give and receive politely
Extend the right hand out while the left hand gently grips the right elbow when hand-
ing an object to another person or receiving something - truly polite behaviour.
Respect all Buddha images and pictures of the monarchy
Signs of disrespect can have serious consequences.
Sit in the 'mermaid' position inside temples
Tuck your feet beside and behind you so that your feet aren't
pointing at the Buddha image.
Don'ts
Don't get a tattoo of the Buddha
It is considered sacrilegious.
Don't criticise the monarchy
The monarchy is revered and protected by defamation laws.
Don't prop your feet on tables or chairs
Feet are considered dirty and people have to sit there.
Don't step on a dropped bill to prevent it from blowing away
Thai money bears a picture of the king. Feet +
monarchy = grave offence.
Never step over someone or their personal belongings
Aaah, attack of the feet.
Avoid tying your shoes to the outside of your backpack
They might accidentally brush against someone,
gross.
Don't touch a Thai person on the head
It is considered rude, not chummy.
Women cannot touch monks or their belongings
Step out of the way when passing a monk on the footpath
and do not sit next to them on public transport.
