Speaking No.1 Dos and Don’ts in Thailand
Tourist Guide: Welcome to Bangkok. How many of you on this been to Thailand
before?
Tourist: I do. Last time I also was here in Bangkok for few days. This country
and city are wonderful for me and my family. I told them a lot about
good experiences in Thailand and they ask me to revisit Thailand this
year.
Tourist Guide: Thank you very much. On the name of my country and travel agency I
would like to say the word of appreciation for your visit this year. So I
guess you already known dos and and don’ts in Thailand then.
Tourist: Not really, there are a lot of interesting things I have to learn more on
Thai culture. I was in Bangkok, the city of culture for few days then I
spent most the time on the beach in the South. So I expect to know
more from you.
Tourist Guide: First of all ladies and gentlemen. Now we are all in The Land of Smile where most of people are Buddhists. Actually Thailand is claimed a Buddhist country where Buddha images are held sacred. Another thing we all need to know is that Thai people hold their King and Queen and the Royal Family in great reverence and so showing disrespect to them is critical to be punished in Thai law.
Tourist: I have learned that touching Buddhist monks is prohibited too. How
about that?
Tourist Guide: As we know generally touching Buddhist monks is not possible because the Buddhist monks is considered to follow strict rules is Buddhism. One of the most serious mistake in Buddhism is touch or be touched by women. As well women in Thailand are also conservative. So don't touch them without their consent.
Tourist: I almost forget to tell you that Thais is also care much about dress
when we are in religious places.
Tourist Guide: That is true. One of the rule we should be careful is when we are in a Buddhist temples, please keep in mind to dress properly when entering a Buddhist ground. Miniskirts and shorts are not allowed. Another thing is we need to know before we go a religious place is to take our shoes off before going inside the hall of worship. For ladies it is very important to note that you must not touch a Buddhist monk, give things direct to him or receive things direct from him.
Tourist: Thank you very much. I think we start learning a lot from your helpful
suggestions.
Tourist Guide: With pleasure.
Tourist: How about touching head of Thais. I hear that it is very sensitive part for
Thai as well. Can you tell us little more about that?
Tourist Guide: Thank you for reminding me about that I almost forget to tell you on that point. Thais strongly believed that head is the noblest part in human body. So please don't touch a person's head, nor ruffle his hair for a reason without permission. In case of accident, a sincere apology should be offered immediately if you touch someone's head.
Tourist: Sounds a little different from our hometown. But it’s good to know that
anyway. Thank you very much for your information.
Tourist Guide: Let me know if you want to know more information on related topics.
Adapted from: www.Thaiway.com