Of all the Indochinese nations, Thailand is the only 1 never ever to have been colonised, some thing of which they are very proud. Over 90% of Thais are Buddhist followers and this has shaped much of their culture. As component of this, a powerful sense of status exists in Thai society. It is for that reason expected that a polite individual will show the correct level of respect to any person of higher status and also to the elderly.

The standard Thai greeting is the ‘wai’. Each hands are brought together in a praying position and lightly tapped on the chest although bowing.  To show maximum respect, the hands ought to be raised to nose level. Foreigners are not expected to initiate the ‘wai’ but should return it. 1 should by no means supply a ‘wai’ to youngsters or individuals such as shop assistants, nor ought to their ‘wai’ be returned. A brief nod of the head in recognition is enough.

The top status in Thailand is afforded to the King and the Royal Family. Thai men and women revere King Bhumibol and show him utmost respect. At the very same time he is protected by law and it is a critical offence to insult him or show any lack of respect. Foreigners have been imprisoned in Thailand for insulting the king.

If invited to a Thai house, it is polite but not essential to take a tiny gift such as chocolate, fruit or flowers. These should be wrapped in coloured paper, but not green, black or blue as these are utilized at funerals and when in mourning. Do not give marigolds or carnations. These are for funerals. It is typical to eliminate one’s shoes when visiting homes and when entering the residence step over the threshold rather than on it. Traditional Thai custom has it that the door god lives on the threshold.

Thai people usually eat utilizing a fork and spoon. Chopsticks are only employed for consuming noodles. The spoon need to behold in the proper hand and the fork in the left. The fork is used to push the food onto the spoon which is then raised to the mouth. Specifically in the north, sticky rice is a well-liked food. This is usually eaten with the fingers. Often of the right hand! It is polite to leave a small food on the plate to show that you are full. If you eat every little thing or take the last from a serving bowl, the host will shed face for not having supplied enough. Even so, it is not acceptable to leave any rice. This is considered wasteful.

Thailand remains a conservative society and this is revealed in its attitude to dress. Intelligent, clean clothing is essential. Only low status individuals would wear something else and numerous Thais are offended by the casual clothes often worn by young western travellers. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not acceptable to most Thais unless on the beach. Revealing clothes are also taboo.

In temples, you will not be admitted unless you are appropriately dressed. This means no shorts or t-shirts. For ladies slacks, a long skirt, a long sleeved blouse with a buttoned neck, and a headscarf are suggested. Ladies ought to in no way touch a monk. There are also restricted locations inside temples where ladies are not permitted.

Finally, ought to you accidentally offend against Thai etiquette, bear in mind that a quick ‘wai’ of apology will be adequate for your offence to be forgotten. You can go to http://www.indochinaodysseytours.com to get more data about this.