General Information

Thai Etiquette

Do:

• Remove you shoes whenever you enter someone’s home. It’s also a good idea to check when you enter a shop or temple to see if others have removed their shoes.
• Wear modest, neat clothing. Since social status is often determined by clothing, it is important to present a well-groomed and conservative image.
• Address people by their first name. Often, the title Khun is added before the first name. This is similar to Mr. or Mrs., and is used for both men and women, regardless of marital status. Family names are typically only used in formal settings.

Don’t

• Show someone the bottoms of your feet, or allow your feet to be higher than the level of someone else’s head.
• Touch a monk, especially if you are a woman. Monks are forbidden to have any physical contact with women, and this is strictly observed.
• Touch someone’s head, or pass something over another person’s head.
  Show displays of affection in public. Couples kissing or hugging in public is considered inappropriate.
• Wear short shorts, low-cut tops, or revealing clothes during the visit at the temples.