Thais are famously warm and forgiving toward visitors who try to be respectful. You do not need to master every custom—but knowing a few basics will help you blend in and avoid unintended offense.

The wai (ไหว้)

The wai is a prayer-like greeting: palms together, fingers pointing up, with a slight bow. Use it when saying hello, thank you (khop khun), or goodbye.

• Who wais first: Generally, the younger or junior person wais first; elders and monks receive a deeper wai.
• As a tourist: Returning a wai when someone wais you is polite. Service staff may wai you—you can wai back or simply smile and nod.
• Do not wai: To children, to say sorry after a minor bump, or while holding something in both hands (a nod and smile is fine).

Head and feet

The head is considered the most sacred part of the body; the feet are the lowest. Avoid touching anyone’s head (including children). Do not point your feet at people, Buddha images, or temple altars— tuck them to the side when sitting on the floor. Remove shoes before entering homes and temple buildings.

Monks

• Women should not touch monks or hand items directly to them—place offerings on a cloth or table, or ask a man to pass them.
• Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) when visiting temples.
• Do not stand taller than a seated monk; sit lower if you speak with one at length.

See also: Dressing while visiting temples

Royal family and national symbols

Thais hold deep respect for the monarchy. It is illegal to insult the King, Queen, or Royal Family—including online. Avoid disrespectful comments, gestures, or damaging images of the King on currency or portraits. Stand quietly during cinema royal anthems and at some public events.

Public behavior

• Volume: Keep voices moderate in temples, hospitals, and on public transport.
• Affection: Brief hand-holding is fine; passionate kissing and overt displays are best kept private.
• Anger: Losing your temper (“losing face”) rarely helps. Stay calm and polite—Thais respond well to a smile.
• Queues: Line up for BTS/MRT and popular spots; cutting in is frowned upon.
• Photography: Ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas or at ceremonies.

FAQ

Do I need to speak Thai?
No, but sawadee (hello), khop khun (thank you), and mai pen rai (never mind / you’re welcome) are appreciated.

Can I use my left hand?
The right hand is preferred for giving and receiving, especially food and money—but tourists are rarely judged harshly for casual slips.

Is bargaining rude?
At markets, polite bargaining is normal. At malls and chain stores, prices are fixed.