Moving to Thailand is exciting! The people are friendly, the food is delicious, and the country is beautiful. But before you arrive, it’s good to learn a few basic rules about Thai culture. This will help you make local friends and avoid misunderstandings.
๐ The Wai: Thai Greeting
In Thailand, people greet each other with a
wai—hands together like a prayer and a small bow.
You should return the wai if someone gives it to you, especially if they are older.
๐ Smile Often
Thailand is known as the
Land of Smiles.
Even when people are angry or confused, they might still smile.
A smile shows respect, friendliness, and helps avoid conflict.
๐ฃ Don’t Point Your Feet
In Thai culture, feet are considered the
lowest and
dirtiest part of the body.
Don’t point your feet at people, especially not at Buddha images or photos of the King.
Never put your feet on chairs or tables.
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Don’t Touch Someone’s Head
The head is the
most respected part of the body in Thai culture.
Even touching a child’s head is not polite unless you are very close.
๐ Dress Respectfully at Temples
If you visit a temple:
- Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees
- Take off your shoes before entering
- Be quiet and respectful
๐ Respect the Royal Family
Thais love and respect the King and royal family.
Never joke or say bad things about them. It is illegal and can get you into serious trouble.
๐ฝ Eating with a Spoon and Fork
Thais eat with a
spoon and fork, not chopsticks (except with noodles).
Use the fork to push food onto the spoon, then eat with the spoon.
๐ฌ Don’t Argue in Public
Loud arguing or showing anger in public is seen as very rude.
Stay calm and polite, even if something goes wrong.
๐งน Keep Clean and Neat
Thais value cleanliness.
Try to dress neatly, especially in school or when dealing with officials like immigration officers.
๐ Don’t Point Fingers or Raise Your Voice
Pointing at someone or raising your voice can feel aggressive.
It’s better to explain things calmly and with a smile.
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Summary: Be Respectful, Be Calm, Be Kind
If you are respectful, clean, and polite, you’ll do great in Thailand.
Learn these simple cultural habits and Thai people will appreciate your effort.
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Want to study in Thailand and learn more about Thai culture?
Join our Thai or English language programs with full visa support.
๏ปฟ
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Visit us at Wave Language School
Room 1203, 12th Floor (Purple Room)
35 Wannasorn Building, Phaya Thai Rd, Ratchathewi, Bangkok
(Next to Phaya Thai BTS)
๐ฑ Message us on LINE:
https://lin.ee/R3uSJWC
