If you’re planning a vacation to Koh Samui, make sure you’re familiar with their specific cultural etiquette and body language gestures before venturing in, especially if you’re from a Western country. Asian countries have far different customs and understanding of body languages and as visitors, it is your duty to adjust to these etiquette and customs.
1. The Thai people adore and respect the royal family. Saying anything negative about them, even in jest, is frowned upon. Avoid talking about the royal family, if not in praise. Do not even attempt to say anything negative or you might get into big trouble with the locals.
2. Be mindful of your outfits. If you’re going to be visiting a Buddhist temple or other areas where you have to show respect, make sure that you wear the appropriate attire. This means no sleeveless tops and short shorts.
3. In entering or leaving a building, check to see if other people take off their shoes or sandals first before getting inside. Some establishments require people to take off their foot wear before entering. Temples and private houses typically do not allow footwear.
4. The head is considered to be a sacred part of the body. Don’t ever touch a local’s head, even as an act of affection on children.
5. On the other hand, the feet are considered the lowest part of the body. Avoid pointing your feet on a person or a Buddhist monument. Especially when in front of a Buddha statue, make sure your feet are tucked between your legs when seated. Never ever place your feet on a table to rest. Also, avoid exposing the soles of your feet in plain view.
6. Always ask first before taking a picture of a monument or a statue. Some Buddhist statues are very sacred such that even taking their pictures is forbidden.
7. Give high regard for monks. If you’re a woman, avoid physical contact with a monk as they are not allowed to touch a woman. If you want to offer a gift to a monk, pass it to a man or wrap it in cloth. In public vehicles, there are seats reserved exclusively for monks. Make sure to avoid sitting on those. If all seats are taken and a monk enters the vehicle, offer your seat.
8. It is considered rude and uncouth to shout, raise your voice, or express anger in Thailand, regardless of the situation. Never do it! No matter how apt you think it is, if you don’t want to look like an uncultured swine.
9. Excessive public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially among elders. Although holding hands already seem acceptable in some areas, it is advised to just avoid displaying so much affection to avoid discomfort from the locals.
10. When eating or drinking out with locals, always make sure to have a clear agreement as to who pays. When locals invite a foreigner, they would usually pay and many would find it rude if the foreigner offers to pay or to go Dutch (American Share, in their lingo). The oldest or most superior member of the group is typically expected to foot the bill and offering to pay is the same as saying, “I am your superior”.
To avoid awkward situations when you are invited for food or a drink, you can say something like, “No thanks, I can’t afford it unless we have American share.” This allows them to reveal whether they expect you to pay or they want to treat you.
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