Travel Tips

The Monarchy: Thai people have a deep, traditional reverence for the Royal Family, and a visitor should be careful to show respect for the King, the Queen and the Royal Children. It is against the law in Thailand to make any negative comments about the Royal Family.

 Visitors should dress neatly in all religious shrines. They should never go topless, or in shorts, hot pants 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.

 Each 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 which 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.

 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.

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.

Do not get involved with drugs. Penalties for drug offences are very severe in Thailand.

 Tipping has not been a usual practice in Thailand although it is becoming more common. Most hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. A small tip added to food bills, taxis, or other who provides services goes a long ways here.

Thai is a tonal language belonging to the group of Ka-Tai languages; the five tones are monotone, low, falling, high, and rising. This can be a rather complicated language for the visitor; however, English is quite widely understood, particularly in Bangkok and the major tourist centers.

 Fixed prices are the normal in shopping mall department stores, but at most other places bargaining is to be expected. Generally, you can obtain a final figure of between 10-50% lower than the original asking price. Much depends on your skills and the shopkeeper's mood. But remember, Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humor. With patience and a broad smile, you will  get a better price.