T.I.T This is Thailand - Issue 12

Gan Hai or Tam Bun are integral to Thai culture. Literally they mean giving. So often you will encounter the desire to give or please and maybe not understand why. It is a very deep part of the way Thais live and go about their world. From a Western perspective that may seem odd; for someone to want to give for no return! And sometimes forcing a reciprocal "gift" can be offensive.

From this comes the desire by Thai people to avoid conflict. If a visitor looses their temper, however justified it may seem to do so, in the eyes of Thais, you are not a very nice person. It's best to be very patient, count to 1,000 if need be and then try to deal with differences in a calm voice and apply gentle reasoning. If you blow up you have lost for sure!

When you enter a temple, restaurant and even a persons house, the chances are, if it looks Thai, you should remove your shoes. You'll probably see other shoes outside so that can be a guide but to be on the safe side, leave them at the door.

And while on the subject of feet, your feet are the lowest part of your body, and are considered dirty. You should never point your feet at people, or point at things with your feet, or move things with your feet. You should also not prop your foot. Never point your feet towards Monks and Buddhist images whether in a temple home or office. If you are at a temple (Wat) sit mermaid style with your legs under your bottom if sitting in lotus positions is uncomfortable, but never extend your feet out or show the bottoms of your feet towards religious images or people. It is also considered rude to step over someone. Always step around them, or if there is no other to pass by, ask them to please move, even on a crowed train. Understanding these traditional good manners will not only improve your Thai relationships it will make you feel more a part of the society.

As in any Monarchy, the coinage and bank notes in Thailand have the image of His Majesty The King on them. It is very disrespectful to Thais when they see money being handled roughly or in anger so its always advisable to show your respect and handle money with care.

Understanding these traditional good manners will not only improve your Thai relationships it will make you feel more a part of the society.