Page 25 - Guest Service Directory

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USEFUL INFORMATION

Dear Valued Guest,

Welcome to Thailand!

Thailand is predominantly Buddhist, so many of the customs and traditions in Thai culture are based on
Buddhist values except in the Deep South of the country where many people are Muslim.
The country is famously known as the “Land of Smiles” because of the cheerful nature of its people. However
foreigners should be aware of some simple customs and etiquette as well as certain comments or actions which
should always be avoided. As you have just arrived we would like to take this opportunity to offer you the
following information of Thailand’s ‘Do’s and Dont’s to help you to have a more pleasant stay.

Thailand Do’s

Do say “Sawasdee Krab” for men or “Sawasdee Ka” for women when greeting Thai people.
Do greet but instead of shaking hands press the palms of your hands in a prayer-like gesture called ‘Wai’.
Generally a younger person should ‘Wai’ an older person, who will then return it.
Do use “Khun” as the honorific title before a person’s first name.
Do dress appropriately when visiting temples and religious sites.
Do respect all Buddha images and always treat any image of a Buddha and Buddhist monks with extreme respect.
Do always ask for permission before taking pictures of anyone.
Do avoid kissing or hugging in public.
Do remove shoes before entering a Thai home.
Do try to learn a couple of Thai words and phrases.

Thailand Don’ts!

Don’t express negative opinions about the King or any member of the Royal Family. Thai people have utmost
respect for the Thai monarchy. The King is very highly regarded, almost universally, as evidenced by his
pictures displayed everywhere.
Don’t point anything or anyone with your feet, hold doors open with your feet, point your feet to the Buddha
images and or touch monks.
Don’t get involved with drugs. Penalties are very severe from ten years up to the death penalty for trafficking.
Don’t touch a Thai person on the head.

Best regards,

The Management