Do's and Don'ts while you were in Thailand// Do's list Part 2

Thank you for return to my blog, and for those who just found this blog, check out my earlier post for more useful information regarding to retire in Thailand.   Today, I'm going to continue with the next 5 on Do's list, details as follow;

3. Do "Wai".  Instead of shaking hands, Thais “wai” to greet people.  The “wai” is a short bow done with hands held fingertips-together close to your chest or face.  A proper “wai” is not as easy as you’d think, so practice a little to get the hang of it.  Generally, you shouldn't “wai” someone of lower status or younger – even it sounds like the egalitarian thing to do, you’ll only embarrass the person you’re “wai”ing.   When younger wai to you, just simply nodding and smile to greeting back to them.  However, these rules are possibly a little more flexible as far as a foreigner is concerned, the Thais you wai will generally very much appreciate you delving into the local custom and practice.

4. Do respect Buddhism.  Buddhism is practiced by most Thais, so one must take extra-special care not to offend their religious sensibilities.  Wear appropriate dress before entering a temple – avoid sleeveless shirts, flip-flops, and too-short shorts or skirts, for starters.  Leave your shoes outside the temple as you enter.

5. Do speak quietly and gesture softly.  Loud voices, calling attention to yourself, pointing at people or things, throwing things, and making big hand gestures, all seem graceless to the Thai sensibility.  In the U.S., making a scene might get results.  Here, it gets you avoided.

6. Do watch for con games.  Anything offered for free probably contains a hitch: A free cab ride will include stops at knick-knack or gem shops.  Even when you pay for a ride, cabbies and tuk-tuk drivers may try to deliver you to a shop, from which they collect a commission, en route to your real destination.  Any jeweler with a printing press can sell jewelry with a certificate of authenticity.  Don’t be paranoid, but do be cautious.

7. Do dress modestly.  Thais now understand that Americans may show up in shorts and tank tops in public, but would never do so themselves.  Wearing long pants, and clean, neat clothes, will gain you an extra measure of respect.

Do come back tomorrow for the last 5 on Do's list.  Thank you and be happy.

SAWADDEE