Thailand Culture

THAILAND

The Thais

The Thais,or the people of Thailand,is truly one of a kind. Mai Pen Rai,which means don’t worry about it,or nevermind depicts the center of life in general,which is to enjoy.Despite Mai Pen Rai,

the Thais are a productive and hardworking community,it is safe to say that they play hard,and work hard.

Other than that,the Thais are also know for their hospitality,they are friendly,a sight for sore eyes,for it is easy to see a fellow Thailand face smiling a bright smile,which will always  bright up your day.

There for I would like to say Chan rakprathetthai,I love Thailand.

Manners & Etiquette

Whenever someone is being greeted or introduced.

Sawatdee-khap is what a man should say,Sawatdee-kah is what a woman should say.

-Wai (Well-Being)

However,”Wai” is used by the local people.People other than Thais are not expected or to be assumed to know or use “Wai”.However it is considered insulting if a “Wai” is offered and not replied or returned.However if  a“Wai“ is not offered,it is expected that men should shake hands and smile while it is expected for woman to smile and nod.

Sometimes,”Wai” Is offered to a person or individual with a common level of status and respect between each other.

The way “Wai” is done

The palm of the hands of a person is placed together as if like a prayer.

The person is then expected to bow down.The level of respect shown depends on the height of the palm of hands that is placed together,the higher the position is,the higher the respect towards the person.However the height of hands raised should never be above eye-level.

Generally,a “Wai” Carries many meanings,it can be “Hello”,” I am sorry” “Good-bye” and even “Thank-you” However “Wai “ is not used with subordinates,for example;Children,street vendors, or labourers.It is said that to not return a “Wai” to these peoples.Monks however,doesn’t return “Wai”.

Business Etiquette & Protocol

The colourful business world of the Thais has etiquette that is expected to be followed.

The first thing about Thais when doing business is,it is preferable doing  business with people they respect.

Relationship between fellow businessperson takes time to flourish,it may take more than one or several meeting to really let the relationship flourish.Relationship is an important thing for the Thais business person,which shows that it is not just about the black and white,but also about creating a quality and rich business experience.Which shows a truly different class all together from the other culture.