Thais have a deep, traditional reverence for the Royal Family, and a visitor should show respect for
the King, the Queen and the Royal Family.
Visitors should dress neatly in all religious shrines. They should never go topless, or in shorts, or other
unsuitable attire. It is acceptable to wear shoes when walking around the compound of a Buddhist
temple, but not inside the chapel where the principal Buddha image is kept.
Every Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as a sacred object. Never climb onto
one to take a photograph or do anything that might indicate a lack of respect. Buddhist monks are
forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman, or to accept anything from the hand of one. If a woman
has to give anything to a monk, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it, or puts it down and
allows the monk to pick it up.
Thais don't normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press the palms together
in a prayer-like gesture called a 'wai' . Generally, a younger person wais an elder, who returns it. It is
however far more complex than this and for tourists a simple smile is acceptable when someone wais
you.
Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body, literally and figuratively. Therefore, avoid
touching people on the head and try not to point your feet at people or an object. It is considered very
rude.
Shoes should be removed when entering a private Thai home.
Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon in Thailand.
Observe all normal precautions as regards to personal safety, as well as the safety of your belongings.
Drop your garbage into a waste container. a fine will be imposed on a person who spits, discards
cigarette butts, or drops rubbish in public areas.
Do not get yourself involved with drugs. Penalties for drug offences are very severe in Thailand.
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