Yes it can be hot in Thailand. Yes it can be humid. But that doesn’t mean that men should walk around Thai cities shirtless. If you want to bare your torsos lads, wait until you get to the beach. Trust me, it doesn’t matter if you’ve got a six-pack or a beer-belly; walking around a Thai city … [Read more...]
Beach Etiquette in Thailand
February 24, 2010 By
Thailand is a relaxed country to visit but that doesn't mean that anything goes. Unfortunately, some tourists forget that when they hit the beach. Although Thai people in tourist resorts are generally very tolerant, partly out of practicality because tourism brings revenue and jobs, there are some … [Read more...]
Take Off Your Shoes
July 13, 2009 By
In Thailand, there are a number of different do's and don'ts. In general, most minor indiscretions will be forgiven, but if you act respectfully towards local traditions and customs you will automatically receive appreciation from Thai people. One of the everyday ways you can show respect is when … [Read more...]
Thai Small Talk
October 5, 2008 By
When you meet a Thai person for the first time and engage in conversation you may be surprised by the directness of some of the questions. What may be considered impolite or nosey in your home country is often perfectly normal in Thailand. Don’t be offended by questions about age, marital status … [Read more...]
Kreng Jai
March 15, 2008 By
Kreng jai (also written as krengjai) is a distinctly Thai trait that can bewilder visitors to Thailand. So what is kreng jai? The direct translation is often given as 'awe heart' or 'deferential heart' and it is usually interpreted as consideration, but that is too simplistic because kreng jai is … [Read more...]
The Thai Smile, Jai Yen and Jai Rawn
February 4, 2008 By
I thought I’d write about a couple of incidents I’ve seen in the past week which confirms one stereotype of Thailand and dispels another. Last Sunday I was sitting outside a small coffee shop reading a book when I hear the sound of metal hitting concrete accompanied by screams. Two … [Read more...]
Being Polite
October 8, 2007 By
Good manners are important in Thai society, but politeness isn’t always demonstrated in the same way as it is in many other countries. Although there is a Thai word for ‘please’ (karuna) it isn’t used in the same way as it would be in the West and you needn’t worry about using it. Khop … [Read more...]
