Cultural Dos and Don’ts for Travellers in Thailand
Whether you’re visiting Thailand for a beach holiday or a long-term stay, understanding local customs is key to a respectful and enjoyable experience. Thai culture is warm, welcoming, and deeply rooted in traditions — but there are a few unspoken rules that every traveller should know.
🙏 DO: Show Respect with the Wai
The “wai” is a traditional Thai greeting where you place your palms together at chest level and bow slightly. It’s commonly used when saying hello, goodbye, or thank you — especially to elders, monks, or in formal settings.
✔️ Tip: Don’t wai to children or service staff; a smile and nod is sufficient.
👣 DON’T: Point Your Feet at People or Religious Icons
Feet are considered the lowest and least clean part of the body in Thai culture. Pointing them at someone, especially at a Buddha statue or monk, is seen as highly disrespectful.
🚫 Avoid resting your feet on furniture, pointing them toward others, or using them to move objects.
🛕 DO: Dress Modestly When Visiting Temples
Temples (called “wats”) are sacred spaces. Tourists are always welcome, but proper attire is expected:
✔️ Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees
✔️ Remove your shoes before entering temple buildings
✔️ Be quiet and respectful during your visit
🙅♀️ DON’T: Touch Anyone’s Head — Even Children
In Thai culture, the head is the most sacred part of the body. Even casual touches, like ruffling a child’s hair or patting someone on the head, are discouraged.
🤝 When interacting with locals or kids, avoid touching the head — it’s a sign of deep respect.
💬 DO: Speak Politely and Stay Calm
Thais value “kreng jai” — being considerate of others and avoiding confrontation.
✔️ Speak softly, smile often, and avoid raising your voice
✔️ If something goes wrong (e.g., in a restaurant or taxi), remain calm and polite — it’s more effective
🚫 DON’T: Display Public Anger or Aggression
Losing your temper in public is frowned upon in Thailand. Angry outbursts are seen as a loss of control and can lead to embarrassment or being ignored.
⚠️ If you’re frustrated, take a deep breath and try to resolve things with a smile — it’s the Thai way.
🧘 DO: Remove Shoes Indoors
It’s standard practice to remove shoes before entering someone’s home, many shops, massage parlours, or even certain restaurants.
✔️ If you see shoes outside the door, take yours off too.
🚬 DON’T: Smoke or Vape in Prohibited Areas
Thailand has strict laws on smoking in public places, beaches, and especially on vaping — which is illegal.
⚠️ Avoid bringing e-cigarettes into Thailand and always check for no-smoking signs.
🛍️ DO: Bargain Respectfully in Markets
Bargaining is part of the culture in local markets and street stalls — but it should be done politely and with a smile.
✔️ Don’t haggle too hard for tiny savings
✔️ Accept the price if it’s already fair
✔️ Thank the vendor regardless of the outcome
🧘♂️ DON’T: Disrespect the Royal Family or Religion
Thailand has strict lèse-majesté laws protecting the monarchy.
⚠️ Avoid making jokes, negative comments, or casual references about the royal family — even online.
The same goes for Buddhism — never climb on Buddha statues for photos, and never buy Buddha heads or souvenirs as “decorations.”
💡 Bonus Travel Tips
✅ Carry small change for taxis and market stalls
✅ Don’t touch monks if you’re a woman — it’s against custom
✅ Use both hands when giving or receiving items from elders
✅ Smile often — it’s part of daily communication
✅ Tip: While not mandatory, tipping is appreciated in tourist areas
🏝️ Respect Enhances Your Experience
Thailand welcomes millions of travellers each year with open arms. By understanding these simple dos and don’ts, you’ll not only avoid social missteps — you’ll earn the respect of locals and deepen your connection with the culture.
Travel with awareness, and you’ll return with more than just photos — you’ll leave with meaningful memories.
