Important Information for Thailand

Learning the basics of etiquette in Thailand will be very important, especially if you are considering moving here. It is a very intricate culture which places tremendous importance on pride (known in Thailand as face). Making someone lose face is a big no no whatever the reason. Patience and understanding will be of great importance here.

Thai people rarely address each other with their first names (unless on official business), as nicknames are used in most cases. Surnames are almost never used. The word “Khun” is prefixed to the first or nick name, when addressing a person (meaning something like Mr or Mrs).

Thai people do not shake hands when greeting each other (unless they are westernised). Instead of a handshake, the palms of the hands are raised above the breast touching each other, forming an inverted V, accompanied with a slight bow or nod of the head. This sign of welcome and goodbye is called “Wai”.

Other important factors to remember about etiquette in Thailand include:

• Never touch a Thai on the head since this is considered to be the seat of the soul and as such, the most sacred part of the body.
• Before entering the interior of a temple or a private house, it is custom to take the shoes off.
• At a visit of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaeo and other religious places, appropriate clothing and respectful behaviour is always expected. These are not the places to visit in beachwear.
• Buddhist monks, statues of Buddha and other religious symbols should not be touched and be treated with respect.
• Women should avoid touching a monk.
• Thai people are a very polite, reserved and friendly nation. Never show your anger in obvious manner and always remain calm and polite, even in case of possible quarrels.
• Avoid any remarks against the royal family.

Never point with the soles of your feet against any person.

Apart from the regular police, all major tourist centres have a special Tourist Police force. They are English speaking and responsible for helping tourists that have problems of any kind.

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A Western driving license is valid in Thailand for one year after arriving in Thailand. Car rentals will accept foreign driving licenses without problems. However, when staying long time in Thailand, a national Thai driving license needs to be obtained. The Western driving license can be converted at the local motorcar inspection authority for a small fee and a short and very easy test of reaction ability.

At first, a Thai driving license is issued for one year. After this, a five-year licence can be obtained.