If you're planning a trip to Thailand 🇹🇭, get ready for an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant city life, and some of the best street food in the world. But beyond the beauty and excitement, Thailand has a rich culture with unique traditions, customs, and social etiquette that can be very different from what you’re used to.
To ensure a smooth & respectful experience, here’s your essential guide to understanding Thai culture before you travel! 🌏✈️
1. The Importance of Respect 🙏
One of the most important aspects of Thai culture is respect, which influences many aspects of daily life. Here’s what you need to know:
The Wai Gesture : Thailand’s Traditional Greeting
Instead of shaking hands, Thai people wai (ไหว้) to greet each other. This involves pressing the palms together in a prayer-like gesture while slightly bowing the head. The higher the hands and deeper the bow, the more respect is shown.
Tourist Tip ➝ If someone wais you, it’s polite to return the gesture unless they are service staff (like cashiers or waiters). A simple nod or smile is enough in these cases.
Respect for the Royal Family & National Symbols
The Thai monarchy is deeply respected, and any negative remarks about the King or Royal Family are not just frowned upon—they're illegal under Thailand’s lèse-majesté law.
Tourist Tip ➝ Be mindful when discussing politics or national issues. Also, when the national anthem plays (often in malls and public spaces), Thais stand still out of respect—you should do the same.
No Public Displays of Affection (PDA)
Hugging & kissing in public is uncommon and may be seen as disrespectful.
2. Thai Temples 🏯
Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, and temples (wats) are sacred places. If you plan to visit temples, here’s how to show proper respect :
Dress Modestly & Cover Up
Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees when entering temples. Wearing a sarong, long pants, or a shawl over your shoulders is recommended.
Tourist Tip ➝ Some major temples provide sarongs for rent if you’re not dressed appropriately.
Remove Your Shoes
Before entering temple buildings, always take off your shoes as a sign of respect. Some shops, homes, and certain businesses may also require you to do this.
Tourist Tip ➝ If you see a pile of shoes at an entrance, take yours off too!
Respect Monks & Buddha Statues
Do not touch monks, and if you need to give something to a monk, they should place it on a surface for him to pick up.
Do not point your feet on Buddha statues — feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body in Thai culture.
3. Thai Food 🍜
Thai food is legendary, and eating in Thailand is a social experience. Here are some tips to enjoy it the right way :
Spoon & Fork, Not Chopsticks
Most Thai dishes are eaten with a spoon (right hand) and fork (left hand). Chopsticks are mainly used for noodle dishes.
Sharing is the Norm
Thais often order multiple dishes for the whole table to share, rather than each person ordering a separate meal.
Tourist Tip ➝ If you’re dining with Thai friends, let them order for you—it’s a great way to try local specialties!
Spicy Means SPICY! 🔥
Thai food can be extremely spicy, so if you can’t handle heat, say:
🔸 "Mai Ped" (ไม่เผ็ด) = Not Spicy
🔸 "Ped Noi" (เผ็ดน้อย) = A Little Spicy
4. Daily life 🤝
Some tips can help you travel safely and help you understand everyday customs in Thailand.
Taxis & Tuk-Tuks 🚕
Always ask the taxi to use the meter, or negotiate the price before getting into a tuk-tuk.
Tourist Tip ➝ I truly recommend to use apps like Grab. The prices are fix and the app is secure.
Ask Before Taking Photo 📸
Especially of monks and Thai people. Thai culture is really base on respect.
Inside temples, some places may prohibit photography.
5. Thai Superstitions & Beliefs 🔮
There are many superstitions around spirit and gods. If you wanna learn more about it before going to Thailand, you can watch series on Netflix Thailand or read sone books on the subject. 📖
Ghosts & Spirits Are Taken Seriously 👻
Thais are mostly buddhist, so many believe in spirits, and you’ll often see spirit houses outside homes and businesses.
👟 Never Step on Money 💰
Thai banknotes have the King’s image, and stepping on them is highly disrespectful.
Also, it's better to let the banknote safe in your wallet or pocket. Putting it into your shoes or bra or whatever else can also be seen as disrespectful.
6. Thai Language Basics 🗣️
Trying to speak the language of the country you are visiting will always be appreciate !
Some basics
Hello →
"Sawasdee Krub" (for men) / "Sawasdee Ka" (for women)
สวัสดีครับ / ค่ะ
✔ Thank You →
"Khop Khun Krub/Ka" ขอบคุณครับ / ค่ะ
✔ Sorry / Excuse Me → "Khor Thod Krub/Ka" ขอโทษครับ / ค่ะ
✔ Not Spicy → "
Mai Ped"
ไม่เผ็ด
✔ How Much? →
"Tao Rai?"
7. Enjoy your trip na ! ✈️✨
Thailand is known as “The Land of Smiles”, and Thai people are friendly, welcoming, and understanding toward foreigners who may not know all the cultural rules. However, taking the time to learn and respect these customs will make your trip much smoother and more rewarding.
By showing respect, politeness, and curiosity, you’ll not only avoid awkward situations but also create deeper connections with Thai people and culture.
Understand Thai Culture Before Traveling