Dos and Don’ts in Thailand When traveling around Chiangmai to explore Thai cultures ,

1. Dos and Don’ts in Thailand When traveling around Chiangmai to explore Thai cultures, there are certain things foreigners should do or should avoid doing: “Be a Roman in Rome”

2. The Monarchy * All Thai people respect the King and members of royal family * Do not show any lack of respect (Pictures, Banknotes) * Criticism of the King and royal family is against the law * Stand still when the National Anthem or Royal Anthem is being played.

3. Religion • When entering a temple, dress politely (might be colorful). • Shorts, bikinis, skirts that show your legs, open-toed sandals are considered inappropriate. • Buddha images are sacred (do not point your feet at) • Buddhist monks are untouchable by women. • Monks do not shake a man’s hand. • Do not wear shoes inside a temple where Buddha images • are kept.

4. Head • Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body. • Touching someone’s head is entirely unacceptable. • Anything associated with the head requires due treatment. • Feet • Feet are the lowest part of the body. • Do not point at things with your feet. • Take off your shoes before entering a temple.

5. Greetings • A gesture made by placing your hands together in front • of your chest and bow a little called “Wai” and say • “Sawasdee” which can be used for Hello, Good bye, • Good morning, Good afternoon, Good evening, Good • night. • Rules for Wai: In Thai culture we respect “seniority” • (seniority in terms of “age” and “status”. • - You should not Wai to a child. • - Junior should Wai the senior first.

6. General Advice • Do not smoke in the public area or in the building. • Do not engage in purchase of wild animals. • Do not involve in any kind of drugs (harsh penalties). • (Death penalties for drugs trading) • Thais are generally shy people, if people walk up to • you and engage in conversation, then move towards • purchase of something, beware of bad intention.