Bangkok Basics: Essential Etiquette

Whether you're coming from another country in Asia (like me) or from the West (like many of the expats here), the Thai way of doing things will be somewhat unfamiliar. Asians might feel slightly more at home, while for Westerners it is often something of a culture shock (or so I hear!).

Here's a quick list of essential "dos and don'ts" while interacting with people in Bangkok. As I learn more -- from conversations, cautionary tales, books, and my own (mis)adventures -- I will add to it.

Meet & Greet. Use the following Thai phrases and gestures liberally:

• Sawasdee (pronounced suh-wah-dee) - means welcome, hello, good morning, good afternoon, good evening, goodbye
• Khob Khun (pronounced khob-khun) - means thank you
• Add Ka (pronounced kaa) if you're female and Krab (pronounced kraap) if you're male at the end of both the above phrases. These words don't really mean anything in particular, they are simply an indicator of sweetness and good manners.
• Master the Wai (very similar to the Indian Namaste, if you're more familiar with that). As you can see, even Ronald McDonald can do it! When someone greets you with a wai, a response in kind is much appreciated.
• Bonus points if you do these with a smile!

Steer Clear. Avoid talking about the following topics with the Thai unless you are good friends with the person.

• The Royal Family. Seriously, don't talk about them. Especially if you're from the "why do we need kings and queens anyway" school of thought. Thailand's royal family is loved and revered by pretty much every single person in the country - old, young, rich, poor, men, women. So do yourself a favour and never ever criticise the monarchy. Better yet, just don't talk about them. Badmouthing the royal family is a jail-able offence. (Click here to know more about this law.)
• Thai politics. Apparently, the Thai are rather uncomfortable discussing domestic political issues with outsiders. Knowing about the political situation of the country and having an opinion on it will not earn you brownie points. (I will write more about this when I have a better insights and advice!)
• Controversial topics in general. As any and every book will tell you, the Thai despise conflict with their colleagues, acquaintances, and friends. (This attitude is in direct contrast to the attitudes of many shopkeepers in wholesale-style markets by the way, where the refusal to buy can often incite a heated tirade against you!) Avoiding controversial topics, direct refusals, and arguments is in general a good idea. It's also a good idea to not display frustration or anger even when it is not directed towards the Thai person -- simply being in the presence of such emotions is extremely upsetting for Thai people. Restraint is my new best friend in Bangkok! :) 

Holy Moly. There are some important religious sentiments you may like to keep in mind as you navigate life in Bangkok.

• Treat the Buddha with respect. While Bangkok is a very cosmopolitan city, Buddhism forms a deep and significant part of its landscape. Treat anything to do with the Buddha with respect and care, and your Thai acquaintances and friends will love you for it.
• The head is considered sacred, so do not touch a Thai person's head. This includes a tap, a pat, ruffling hair and so on.
• Conversely, the feet are considered dirty, so make sure they never point at anything that should be treated with respect, e.g., a figure of the Buddha, a photograph of the King, etc. I've also been told not to point your feet at people (although I cannot imagine a situation in which one would do so in any case!).
• Small Buddhist shrines and temples (like the one above) dot the city. Like with any religious space, it's great to go exploring while being sure to observe and mirror the locals' behaviour.