The Do's and Don’ts of Thailand
- Mike Dickins
- 11 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Enjoying the Land of Smiles the Right Way
Thailand is one of those countries that seems to capture the imagination the moment you arrive. From the warmth of the people and the incredible food to the temples, countryside, markets and stunning scenery, there is something for almost everyone.
But while Thailand is a very welcoming country, it does have its own customs, traditions and unwritten rules. Understanding a few simple do’s and don’ts can make your visit much more enjoyable, while also showing respect to the people and culture around you.
That was the subject of our latest All About Thailand podcast special edition: The Do’s and Don’ts of Thailand.
One of the biggest things to remember is that Thailand is a country where respect matters. The famous Thai smile can sometimes make everything appear very relaxed, but that doesn't mean anything goes.
When visiting temples, for example, dress appropriately, remove your shoes where required and behave respectfully. Temples aren't simply tourist attractions — they are places of worship and an important part of everyday Thai life. Showing respect costs nothing and goes a long way.
The same applies when it comes to the Thai royal family and Buddhism. These are subjects that should always be approached with respect. What might be treated casually or joked about in the UK can be viewed very differently in Thailand.
Another important point is understanding the Thai concept of “saving face.” Arguments, shouting or publicly embarrassing somebody are generally not good ways of dealing with problems. Keeping calm and polite is usually the better approach. If something goes wrong, take a breath, smile and try to resolve it without turning the situation into a confrontation.
And then there are the little things.
Don't assume that because you're on holiday, you can behave however you like. Don't treat local people as though they're simply there to serve tourists. Don't be disrespectful towards monks, and remember that there can be etiquette around interacting with them.
At the same time, don't be afraid to experience Thailand properly.
Try the local food. Visit the markets. Take the time to explore outside the obvious tourist areas. Learn a few Thai words. Even a simple “sawasdee” — hello — or “khop khun” — thank you — can bring a smile to someone's face.
And perhaps most importantly, slow down.
Thailand isn't necessarily a country you should rush through. Some of the best experiences can come from simply sitting down with a coffee, wandering around a local market, chatting with people or watching everyday life happening around you.
For us, Thailand is about much more than beaches, hotels and tourist attractions. It is about the people, the culture, the food, the traditions and the everyday experiences that make the country what it is.
Of course, you're going to make mistakes. Everyone does — and that's perfectly normal. The important thing is to learn from them, keep an open mind and remember that you're a guest in somebody else's country.
So, whether you're visiting Thailand for the first time or you've been going back for years, hopefully our latest podcast gives you a few ideas about what to do, what to avoid and, most importantly, how to enjoy Thailand while respecting the country and the people who call it home.
Because ultimately, that's what travelling should be about: experiencing somewhere new, meeting new people, learning something different and coming home with memories you'll never forget.
And as always, thank you for listening to All About Thailand.
Stay safe, love you all. 🇹🇭❤️
Link to podcast episode below
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