Thailand is known for its well preserved culture. The country has been adored by people around the world with its captivating beauty and the country’s culture. Here are some of the Thai customs which mirrors their culture.
The family is considered to be the foundation of Thai society. Thai family life is frequently more closely united than tat of the western cultures. The Thai family is regarded as form of hierarchy with the parents at the top. Children are brought honoring and respecting their parents.
The “wai” is a traditional Thai greeting, given by the person of lower status to the person of higher. Thais usually use first names rather than surnames, with the title “Khun” before the name. Khun is a form of address that is proper for both men and women. Visitors should always wait for your host and hostess to introduce them to the other guests. This allows everyone to recognize your status relative to their own. This also who will perform the wai and how low the head should be bowed.
There are also etiquettes for business travelers, which are very advisable to follow. Business attire should always be conservative. Men must wear dark colored business suits, while the women wear conservative business suits or dresses. Women need not wear stockings or leg coverings, since Thai’s judge people on their clothing and accessories. Visitors must also ensure that their shoes are always neatly polished.
During meals, a fork and spoon are the customary eating utensils, though; noodles are frequently eaten with chopsticks. The sticky rice, which is a northern Thai delicacy, is often eaten with the fight hand fingers. Most Thai meals are served in buffets or with serving platters in the center of the table. One may begin eating as soon as the hosts served. One is advised to leave a little food on the plate after they have eaten to show that they are full. Taking in everything indicates that one is still hungry. Also, one must never leave rice on their plate as it is considered wasteful. It is also advised never to take the last bite from the serving bowl, but rather wait to be asked before taking a second helping.
These are just some of the interesting customs and cultures in Thailand. Visitors must observe these well to avoid being called as rude. But even so, Thais are very friendly people, and everyone will feel at ease around them.