One of the reasons people travel is to explore other cultures and establish how other countries and cultures do things. It is then quite remarkable then to see people wandering around the country they visit imposing their cultural approach on the situations and events they encounter. Often these leads to confusion, worse, it sometimes leads to ugly scenes that are entirely avoidable.The Thai are an easy-going lot on the whole, usually minding their own business and going about their daily chores without fuss or complaint. They are warm and friendly. But at the same time no one would like to be offended, especially where revered customs and habits are concerned. Most importantly of all, be particularly careful about respecting Buddhism and the Thai Royal Family. This is important to bear in mind from the very beginning. Anyone can be offended if their customs and beliefs are looked down upon, made fun of or disobeyed.
1. Do not show criticize or show disrespect for the Royal Family in any way.
2. Shorts, bikinis, tops that show your bare arms, skirts that show your legs, open-toed sandals and generally dirty or unkempt attire is considered inappropriate while visiting temples.
3. Don’t make public display of your affections.
4. Shoes are not allowed in temples or homes and have to removed before entering.
5. Do not touch a monk even by mistake. Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman or to directly accept anything from a woman.
6. Don’t cross your legs when you are in the presence of a monk. This applies whether you are sitting on the floor or in a chair.
7. Do not sit on special seats allocated for monks even by mistake.
8. It is unlawful to cause any disturbances at religious congregations or ceremonies, make sacrilegious comments, commit acts of vandalism on religious objects or place of worship.
9. Do not point your feet at anyone.
10. Do not touch anyone’s head, not even in a friendly gesture.
11. Do offer and receive anything with your right hand.
12. Do not accept help from unsolicited people or unauthorized guides, for taxis, sightseeing or shopping.
13. Whatever the situation, do not shout and show your annoyance.
14. Don’t either partake or trade in illegal substances. Trading in drugs will lead to the death penalty or likely decades in prison.
15. Littering and smoking in the street is illegal, you will be fined.
16. Do not engage in purchase of wild animals whether protected or not. Aside from the moral issues, punishments are very harsh.
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