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.
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
·
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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