Saturday, February 15, 2014

BLOG#10 : Thai culture and traditions

Thai Culture and Traditions


        What do you know about Thailand? Perhaps just ‘Land of Smile’ with many delicious foods. What else? Before you come to Thailand or maybe you are now here. Let me show you what is about this country, what is Thai culture and traditions.

     THAILAND is one of the most fascinating countries to visit on earth. Culturally there are many practices and beliefs that are very different to those from Western societies.  Here’s a few to learn more, and to practice respectfully while you travel throughout Thailand.

·                   Thai culture is deeply influenced by religion. With around 95% of the country being Theraveda Buddhist, the belief system and values of Buddhism play a huge role in day-to-day life. The cultures of nearby Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and China have also played an important role in forming the traditions of Thailand.

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                         The Royal Family of Thailand is held in very high respect. Making derogatory remarks about any of the royal family is against the law. The penalty is 3 - 15 years’ imprisonment, depending on the severity.


                  The traditional greeting is with two hands prayer-like palms together known as a ‘wai’.  If a local gives a ‘wai’ to you, to be polite, it is nice to ‘wai’ back. A‘wai’, however, is always appreciated.  Watch this short video on how to give a ‘wai’.

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          Thai culture places certain spiritual importance to certain parts of the body. You should not point your feet at people, touch people with your feet, prop your feet up on seats or tables or step over people sitting on the ground. The head in contrast has a much higher importance. Avoid touching people on the head as this is considered very rude. You should also avoid sitting on pillows meant for head rests. In some rural areas, food is often served while seated on the ground. Stepping over food on the ground is another extremely rude gesture and will surely embarrass your Thai host.

     
            Throughout all of Thailand, if you notice a pile of shoes at or near an entrance to a home, shop or guesthouse, you should remove your shoes before entry; it is considered rude not to do so.
            
              Books and other written materials are given special status over other secular objects. You shouldn’t slide books or documents across a table top nor place them on the ground. Use a chair or stand if one is available.

·                  Most of Thailand’s attractions are of cultural significance. Places like temples and palaces are highly respected by the locals for their religious values and there are certain customs and etiquette you need to respect when visiting these places such as; you are required to wear “polite dress” when visiting official buildings and palaces. This means no flip-flop, no shorts, and no skirt above the knee for ladies, no sleeveless t-shirts.


·             In general, displays of emotion in public are viewed in a very negative light.  No matter how frustrated or upset a person might feel, he or she will always strive to maintain a positive and friendly attitude, a sense of humor, and a smile.

·            Respect for elders and for those in higher social positions is also important. Hierarchies of social status characterize nearly every interaction. Children are expected to respect their parents and teachers. The young must show deference to the elderly.  Those with highly prestigious positions in society, such as doctors, important public figures, and monks are almost revered.



·              Family is central to Thai life.  Although many newly-married couples will set up their own households, it is not uncommon for extended family to live with them.  Often, grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles will all live in the same household and help to raise children and provide for the family. Children are expected to show great respect for their parents, and they maintain close ties, even well into adulthood.



         Find these interesting? Thailand is full of culturally fascinating practices and things to learn about. Go ahead, learn as much as you can before you visit, and while there, ask questions and see how locals treat each other.



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Thank you very much!



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