• Thai people avoid confrontation. Also, as they don’t like having to say ‘no,’ it may take a while before you understand that they don’t have something or can’t do something.
• Avoid losing your temper at all costs—Thai people think such behaviour is rude and stupid.
• As loud conversation is not appreciated, try to speak softly at all times.
• Try not to be too particular. If you feel frustrated by anything, don’t voice it. Please don’t compare the situation out loud to somewhere else—it hurts people’s feelings. Also, Thai people don’t understand sarcasm.
• Don’t treat Thai people as though they were stupid. They may not speak your language as well as you do, but I can assure you they are intelligent and polite, and their civilization has been here a long, long time.
• Many of the architectural wonders are temples—places of worship. When visiting temples, dress decently: no shorts, no tank tops, and women should cover their head. When going inside, take your shoes off. Also take your shoes off when going into someone’s flat, room, or house.
• Don’t put your feet on anything other then the ground—not on the back of the tuk-tuk driver’s seat, not on a table, and to be absolutely correct, don’t even cross your legs—keep both feet flat on the ground.
• Public displays of affection aren’t appropriate. You can hold hands but no more.
• Don’t assume merchants are out to cheat you. Thai people are generally honest and kind.
• Reconfirm on the day of an appointment
• The national anthem is played each morning at 8, each evening at 6, and prior to films and theatrical shows. If you are outside, please stand still. If you are in a theater , please stand.
• Finally, you are an unofficial ambassador for your country; the way you dress and behave is important. Think about it.

   (The above has been reprinted with permission from Spice. In addition to these “Helpful Hints,” we have on our “Links” page more on this subject called “Thai Culture and Customs, 101.” We recommend reading this link about Thai customs and social mores and Thai Culture and Customs 102.)