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By: Jasmine Edmonds. Thai Etiquette. About Thailand. Located in Southwestern Asia Capital: Bangkok Population: 64,865,523 Government: Monarchy Religion: Mostly Buddhist Known as “land of smiles”. Greeting & Cards. Wai is a common form of greeting
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By: Jasmine Edmonds Thai Etiquette
About Thailand • Located in Southwestern Asia • Capital: Bangkok • Population: 64,865,523 • Government: Monarchy • Religion: Mostly Buddhist • Known as “land of smiles”
Greeting & Cards • Wai is a common form of greeting • Younger person in status is foes Wai first • If there is a great social distance: Wai won’t be returned. • Cards are given after the initial handshake. • Use right hand to deliver card • Make polite comment about the card
Dress • Keep attire neat & clean • For Business: wear nice pants & shirts (men wear ties) • Don’t wear shoes inside • Don’t wear shorts, skirts, or tank-tops
Introductions • Common only in a formal situation • Lower-status person is always addressed first • When introducing a business partner, mention their first name
Table Manners • Thai food is eaten with a fork and a tablespoon • Spoon is held in the right hand and the bottom of the fork pushes the food into the spoon • Never drink tap water unless it is boiled. • Leave a small amount of food on your plate when you have finished eating, to show you are full • The host pays the bill. Never offer to split
Gift Giving • In business, give Brandy, liquors, American crafts, etc • Bring a small gift for anyone who works for you regularly • Give & receive a gift with your right hand • Do not open a gift you've been given unless invited to do so
Summary • Thais are tolerant of individualism, but find comfort and security in being part of a group • They’re also productive and hard working • Very proud of their cultural heritage and enjoy talking about it with visitors • Thais are proud that they have never been ruled by a Western power
Sources • http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/thailand-country-profile.html • http://www.1stopchiangmai.com/culture/etiquette/ • http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_th.htm • http://www.asiarooms.com/travel-guide/thailand/culture-of-thailand/thai-etiquette.html