Thai Customs and Traditions

Thailand is known as the ‘Land of Smiles’. Thais are a very peaceful people who try to avoid conflict and disagreement to the best of their abilities and live in harmony with one another. A smile is a symbol of welcome and is a friendly disposition. When greeting someone in the ‘wai’ mode of greeting, a stance similar to that of worshiping is used with a slight bow of the head accompanied by a serene smile. Adults are given much respect and are usually addressed with ‘pi’ before their names while for children, ‘nong’ is added. 

The head is considered by Thai people the purest part of the body and is it is deemed disrespectful to touch another’s head. Feet are also directed in such a way so as not to touch another person or be directed in another’s direction, especially not of a Buddha statue. It is also common to see a huge pile of foot ware at the entrance to shops or houses as it is custom not to trample the threshold of a house. 

While public displays of emotion by couples are prohibited, it is unheard of for a woman to touch a monk. She must avoid the path of a monk to ensure even accidental contact. Buddhist monks are given special privileges by the government such as free public transportation and are highly respected by all. Young men below the age of 20 are ordained for at least a period of three months in a monastery. There are a number of other traditions and customs that are seen in the day to day lives of the Thai people, but with a smile and a wave one should not have too much to worry about! 

There are a number of Hua Hin hotels that might interest you when looking for accommodation in the region. Anantara Hua Hin Thailand Resort is a splendid hotel that stands out among other Hua Hin resorts for its picturesque and comfortable surroundings and superior service.