Society tips
- Thais don’t normally shake hands when they greet one another, but they instead press the palms together in a prayer-like gesture called a wai.
- Generally a younger person wais an elder, who returns it.
- Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body, literally and figuratively. Therefore, avoid touching people on the head.
- Try not to point your feet at people or an object – It is considered very rude.
- Shoes should be removed when entering a private Thai home as an act of courtesy.
- Although almost all year round in Thailand has a hot weather, walking shirtless on the street is generally regarded as impolite – tank tops are acceptable.
- In beach areas it is accepted
- In Thailand there is a big emphasis on “face”, so if there are any issues with others it is best not to draw attention to the situation.
Tipping
- Restaurants often put a 10% service charge on meal bills – in which case a tip is not necessary.
- Some say that if there is no service charge, 10% of the bill is an appropriate tip, but this can be expensive if your bill is quite high already. Many Thai people just leave the loose change.
General
- Credit and debit cards usage will often induce a charge in your home country and are not accepted at many locations.
- Thailand still mostly deals with cash and travellers cheques can only be changed to Thai Baht at various banks.
- Most convenience sores are open 24 hours and many restaurants serve until late
- The best time to visit Thailand is usually between late October and the end of May – June, July and August are part of the rainy season. However, it is easy to get a round of golf in as the showers are heavy but short.
