Wonderful Thailand

· In the evening – rest, walks, housework, watching TV series, chatting on a bench

It is important to understand thatThe rhythm of life of Thais is calm and not stressfulWork is important, but it shouldn’t destroy your inner balance. Thais tend to take their time, avoid conflict, and don’t resolve issues in anger. And even in noisy cities like Bangkok, you’ll notice: no one pushes you on the subway, shouts in line, or stares. This isn’t a weakness, but a cultural norm.

Why Politeness Isn’t Just a Form, It’s a Way of Life

In Thailand, politeness is built into every action. It is customary hereavoid open conflictDon’t raise your voice, and don’t show irritation in public. This isn’t just etiquette – it’s a sign of respect for others and for yourself.

Basic manifestations of Thai politeness:

· SmileIn Thailand, smiling has many meanings: politely, to hide awkwardness, to avoid conflict, to express affection. It’s a universal language.

· The “wai” gesture(palms folded in front of the chest with a slight bow). This is a traditional greeting and a sign of respect. It is used for elders, monks, teachers, and in formal settings.

· Soft speechThai is a tonal and polite language. It has built-in endings and politeness formulas. Even when translating into English, Thais often add “sir” or “madam” or speak with a smile.

For a tourist this means:

· It’s better to smile than to argue

· Do not raise your voice in public places

· Don’t show aggression or impatience – it is perceived as a loss of face

In Thailand there is a conceptsaving face– it’s respect for one’s own and others’ reputations. Humiliating, ridiculing, or arguing publicly is considered extremely impolite here. Therefore, most locals prefer to resolve disputes gently, without pressure.

What is “sanuk” and how to become part of it

Word “sanuk”(สนุก) is one of the key words in Thai culture. It doesn’t just mean “fun,” butinner pleasure from the processIn Thailand, it’s believed that even serious work should bring “sanuk”—otherwise, why do it?

“Sanuk” is:

· Laughter while trading at the market

· The joy of singing karaoke with coworkers

· Ease at work when everyone is smiling

· Calm communication without heaviness and tension

For a Thai, “sanuk” isn’t a goal for entertainment, but a way to make life enjoyable. Even if someone is fixing a car or making soup at the market, they can still derive “sanuk” from the process itself.

How can a tourist embrace this philosophy?

· Don’t take everything too seriously, especially in everyday situations

· Allow yourself to be “in the flow” of the moment: laugh, sing, dance awkwardly – Thais will only support this

· Don’t be afraid to try new things, especially food, phrases, gestures – even if it doesn’t work out, the main thing is participation

· Communicate with locals with ease: even 2—3 words in Thai (for example, “sawadee krap/ka”, “kop kun”) open hearts

Daily life for Thais is a smooth flow of rituals, politeness, and ease. This is a society where haste, aggression, or displays of superiority are frowned upon. Kindness, respect, and the ability to find joy in every day are valued.

If a traveler tries to do more than just look at Thailand, but to live a little like a Thai – with a smile, patience, and ease – they’ll not only get to know the country better. They’ll take with them not only photographs but also habits that will stay with them for a long time.

2.3 The Royal Family

Why are there portraits of the king everywhere?

How to behave so as not to offend the feelings of Thais

Personal: How I understood the meaning of this tradition years later

One of the first things that surprises a tourist in Thailand is the number of portraits of the king. They hang everywhere: on building facades, along roadsides, in banks, cafes, hotels, schools, even small food stalls. These images are often decorated with frames, garlands, and yellow and gold fabrics. To someone unfamiliar with the context, this may seem unusual or even excessive. But in Thailand, respect for the royal family is not a political obligation, buta deeply rooted part of national identity and everyday life.

Why are there portraits of the king everywhere?

The monarchy in Thailand has existed for over 700 years. Since the founding of the Chakri Dynasty in 1782 (beginning with King Rama I), the institution of royalty has become not only a symbol of the state but also a source of national unity. During periods of instability, government changes, and economic crises, it was the kings who served as the “father of the nation,” standing above political strife.

A special place in the Thai heart is occupied byKing Rama IX – Bhumibol Adulyadej, who reigned from 1946 to 2016. He was respected for his modesty, dedication, and tangible actions: he personally visited remote villages, supported agricultural projects, invested in science and technology, and acted as a mediator in conflicts. For many generations, he became not just a monarch, but a moral compass.

Today on the throne -King Rama X (Maha Vajiralongkorn), his son. Although public attitudes toward him are more reserved, the tradition of respect for the institution of monarchy remains. Therefore, images of the current king are often accompanied by portraits of the late Rama IX and even his wife, Queen Sirikit.

Portraits on the streets are an expressionrespect, not obligationShop owners and minibus drivers hang them out not because they’re ordered to do so, but because it’s the accepted practice: the king is a symbol of stability, continuity, and a spiritual center.

How to behave so as not to offend the feelings of Thais

Thai society holds the monarchy in high regard andinsulting the royal family is punishable not only by moral condemnation but also by criminal punishmentThailand has a strict law protecting the honor of the monarchy, called “lese majeste,” which stipulates that public statements against the king or his relatives can result in a prison sentence.

To avoid misunderstandings, it is important for tourists to:

· Never joke about the king or his family., even in private conversation.

· Don’t touch money with your feet, because the king is depicted on the banknotes and coins.

· Do not pass by a portrait or flag carelessly, with a cigarette or jokes.Better – restrained and calm.

· When the anthem is played in public places (for example, in the subway or cinemas), you must stand up.This is a sign of respect, not a political gesture.

· If you accidentally drop a portrait or a banknote with the king’s image, it’s best to pick it up carefully, without pressing it with your foot.

These rules seem strict, but they’re not difficult if you understand them. For Thais, the king is a respected elder, and for many, a spiritual leader. And if you show respect for this value system, you’ll be reciprocated with kindness.

Personal: How I understood the meaning of this tradition years later

When you first arrive in Thailand, you might see respect for the royal family as merely a formality. But the longer you spend time among Thais, the clearer it becomes: this isn’t fear or blind obedience. It’s part of a cultural logic in which people value stability, hierarchy, and the role of symbols.

Understanding comes in simple scenes. When a farmer in the north hangs an old, faded portrait of the king on a bamboo wall in his house – not out of fear, but out of gratitude. When a teacher tells children about projects supported by the king with genuine inspiration. When monks at a temple recite prayers in memory of Rama IX on his birthday – without orders from above.

This isn’t a cult of personality. It’s a way to maintain national ties and a sense of community in a very diverse, multilingual, and regionally diverse country. And respect for this is part of what makes traveling in Thailand not just interesting, but truly profound.

Chapter 3. Religion and Temples: Beauty in Silence

3.1 What is Buddhism in Thai?

– Monks and morning rituals – Why a smile here is more than just an emotion

Buddhism in Thailand is more than just a religion. It’s a way of life, a way of looking at the world, a form of social structure. More than 90% of Thais practice it.Theravada– the oldest and most conservative school of Buddhism, preserving traditions dating back to the time of the Buddha himself. But in Thailand, Buddhism is intertwined not only with philosophy but also with everyday culture – from morning greetings to street layout, from school discipline to wedding ceremonies.

Here, Buddhism cannot be spoken of as something distant. It lives in every corner: in the gold of temples, in the offerings at the tree, in the morning silence on the bench in front of the house.

Monks and morning rituals

Every morning, starting at 5—6 o’clock, people walk along the streets of villages and towns.monks in saffron robesThey walk barefoot, in complete silence, without looking passers-by in the eye, with a metal bowl in their hands. This ispindatabhat, a ritual of collecting alms. Thais prepare food and flowers in advance so they can respectfully present their offerings to the monks, making a short bow.

This ritual is more than just feeding the spirit guides. It symbolizeshumility and gratitudeWhen accepting an offering, a monk expresses no emotion and asks for nothing. It is an act in which the giver receives spiritual merit. Even the poorest people participate – not out of fear of the gods, but out of an inner need to purify themselves.

Monasticism in Thailand is a path that many men take at least once in their lives. Typically, young men become monks after school for one to three months to gain spiritual experience, bring merit to their families, and learn discipline. This is not perceived as a rejection of life, but rather as an important stage in its development.

Monks are respected and protected by law. They are not to be touched, especially by women. They are not to be insulted, criticized, or interrupted in meditation. Special seats are reserved for them on public transportation.

Temples as a cultural center

There is one in every districtwattA Buddhist temple serves not only as a religious but also as a community center. Festivals are held here, children are taught, and local affairs are discussed. Temples range from small, almost village-like, to grandiose ones, such as Wat Arun or Wat Pho in Bangkok.

Thais visit temples not according to a schedule, but rather on an inner impulse. Some come to pray, others simply to sit in the shade. There are no strict obligations, but there is a general culture of respect.

It is important for a tourist to know:

· Shoes are not allowed in the temple. They are left at the entrance.

· Clothing should be modest – no bare shoulders, short shorts, or tops.

· Taking photos isn’t allowed everywhere and not always. It’s best to ask.

· A Buddha statue is not a souvenir. You cannot sit with your back to it or use it as decoration.

Why smiling here is more than just an emotion

In Thailand they often say thatA smile is the way to balanceIt is not always a sign of fun, but a way to express respect, gentleness, and acceptance of the situation. In Buddhism, it is valuedcalmness, patience and inner clarity– and the smile becomes an instrument of this state.

Thais smile when they feel awkward, when they don’t understand something, or when they want to avoid conflict. This smile is both a defense against negativity and a gesture of goodwill. It’s not a mask, but a cultural tool.

Monks also have a special “inner smile”—an expression of meditative calm. Even in strict silence, their faces can radiate peace. Not ostentatious, but soft, quiet, and very deep.

Buddhism in Thailand is more than just rituals, mantras, and temples. It’s a sense of calm that permeates everyday life. It’s respect for silence, for elders, for nature, for the moment. It’s a culture where there’s no room for shouting and pressure, but for acceptance and tolerance.

Understanding this way of life is not only the key to good tourist behavior, but also a way to experience your vacation differently: more mindfully, quietly, and with greater meaning. This is what makes traveling in Thailand not just a trip, but a spiritual experience – even if you’ve never considered spirituality before.

3.2 Main Temples:

Wat Arun, Wat Phra Keo, Doi Suthep and more

When to go, what to see, where to meditate

Thailand is a country of temples. There are tens of thousands of them. Some are modest rural structures with wooden roofs and dogs in the courtyard. Others are glittering golden palaces that look more like fairytale castles. But every temple, regardless of size, is a space of peace, beauty, and meaning.

A traveler should at least once not just stroll through a temple, taking photos, but truly stop, be silent, and look. Then comes the feeling that makes many return to Thailand again and again.

Wat Arun (Temple of the Morning)

Where is it located: Bangkok, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River

Best time to visit: early morning or sunset

Peculiarities:

The name translates as “Temple of Dawn” – especially beautiful in the morning light.

The central tower (prang), over 70 metres high, is decorated with porcelain tiles and seashells.

You can climb the steep stairs to the top, with a view of the river and the old town.

Council: It’s best to arrive before 9 a.m., before the tour groups arrive. The temple looks especially majestic from the river – you can reach it by boat from Tha Tien Pier. There are quiet corners outside for meditation, off the main tourist routes.

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Where is it located: Grand Palace grounds, Bangkok

Best time to visit: weekday mornings

Peculiarities:

It is considered the most sacred temple in the country.

It houses the Emerald Buddha, a statue just 66 cm tall, carved from a single piece of jade.

You can only enter the building where the Buddha is located without cameras and in full compliance with etiquette.

The statue’s clothing is changed three times a year, and the king himself makes the change.

Council: This is one of the most visited sites in Thailand. Arrive at opening time (usually around 8:30 AM), dress formally (cover your shoulders and knees), and leave your shoes at the entrance. For a quiet viewing experience, sit on the floor near the wall – just be sure not to point your feet at the statue.

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Where is it located: Bangkok, near Wat Phra Kaew

Best time: afternoon (in the morning most people go to the Grand Palace first)

Peculiarities:

A huge statue of Buddha in a reclining position – 46 meters long and 15 meters high.

The feet of the statue are inlaid with mother-of-pearl, depicting the 108 signs of enlightenment.

The temple is also known as a center for traditional Thai massage.

Council: Stroll through the courtyard, home to hundreds of golden seated Buddhas. This is one of the places where you can truly experience tranquility. Tourists and locals often meditate here, especially in the small galleries along the wall.

Wat Doi Suthep

Where is it located: Chiang Mai Province, on a mountain west of the city

Best time: early morning or sunset, before 9:00 or after 16:30

Peculiarities:

One of the most revered temples in northern Thailand.

Situated at an altitude of over 1000 metres above sea level, it offers panoramic views of all of Chiang Mai.

A staircase of 306 steps, decorated with the bodies of two nagas (mythical snakes), leads to the main complex.

Council: It’s especially peaceful here in the morning – you can see monks performing rituals and locals bringing lotuses and incense. It’s easy to slow down, find a secluded corner, and simply sit in silence overlooking the city.

Wat Chalong (Phuket)

Where is it located: Phuket, southern part of the island

Best time: weekday mornings

Peculiarities:

The main Buddhist temple of Phuket, visited by both locals and tourists.

It houses holy relics (according to legend, a fragment of Buddha’s bone).

The architecture combines traditional southern and central Thai elements.

Council: This place is a living temple, where real rituals and ceremonies take place. Approach with respect, especially if you’re attending a ceremony. There’s a tower on the grounds that offers views of the temple complex and surrounding area.

Where can I sit in silence and meditate?

Many temples, despite their tourist fame, havequiet zones, where no one takes photos, makes noise, or disturbs your privacy:

Internal galleries behind the central hall (botom)

Small pavilions with seated Buddha statues

Gardens with ponds and benches, especially in northern temples

Areas with monks – if not prohibited, you can sit to the side and just observe

If you want to meditate:

Sit on the floor with your legs crossed, without pointing them towards the statues.

Close your eyes, breathe calmly, don’t think about anything in particular.

Even 5—10 minutes in such silence provide inner renewal.

Thailand’s major temples are more than just architectural gems. They are vibrant places where history, religion, art, and human spirituality merge. A visit to even one of these temples, with care and respect, can become more than just a tourist attraction, but a true moment of inner peace.

The main thing is to take your time. Just sit, look up, smell the incense, hear the ringing of the bells – and let Thailand speak to you without words.

3.3 Rules of Temple Etiquette

About shoes, shoulders, and selfies

How to feel respect, not just take photos

Thai temples are not museums or decorations, even if they look like architectural masterpieces. They are living religious spaces. People pray there, make offerings, meditate, teach children, bid farewell to the deceased, and take monastic vows.

Tourists are guests here. And as in any home, it’s important not to act like hosts, but to show respect for those who spiritually “live” here. These simple rules will not only help avoid awkwardness but also truly experience the atmosphere of the temples.

Shoes – always remove

The first and perhaps most obvious rule: Before entering any closed temple premises, shoes must be removed.

This applies to both the main hall (bota) and the auxiliary pavilions. Shoes are left by the stairs or on a special shelf. Sometimes you’ll be given a bag to take your shoes with you. In the temple, feet are considered the lowest part of the body, a symbol of the earthly and impure – and bringing them inside is forbidden.

Tip:

· Wear shoes that are easy to take on and off – without complicated fasteners.

· Socks are allowed, barefoot is also allowed, but the main thing is that shoes remain outside.

· Don’t touch other people’s shoes or put yours on top of someone else’s.

Clothes are modesty, not fashion

Even in the heat, the temple requires respectful dress. Bare shoulders, short shorts, and tank tops are inappropriate. In some places (for example, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok), you will not be allowed in at all if you violate the dress code.

Minimum for visiting the temple:

· Shoulders covered (T-shirt or shirt)

· Knees are covered (long pants, skirt below the knee)

· No deep cutouts, transparent fabrics, or slogans on clothing

· No hats or glasses inside the sanctuaries

If you’re unprepared, you can often borrow or rent a light scarf or cape at the entrance. This isn’t a formality. Modest clothing is a way to show that you’re not just there to take a photo, but that you respect the sanctity of the place.

Photos are allowed, but not everywhere.

You can take photos inside the templesnot alwaysThis is usually allowed on the premises, but inside the main hall -just no flash and no noise, and not in every temple.

Peculiarities:

· Never photograph monks without their permission.This is considered rude.

· Don’t take selfies in front of a Buddha statue with your tongue sticking out, gestures, or poses. Even if you’re joking, Thais might take it as a serious insult.

· Do not climb onto the statue’s pedestal to take photos next to it.This is taboo.

· Selfie sticks and dronesinappropriate inside the temple complex, especially in the presence of pilgrims.

How to do it right:

· First, take a look around. If the locals are taking photos, it’s okay.

· It’s better to ask the staff or guide.

· Take photos with respect – without being intrusive or disturbing those praying.

What else is important to know:

· Never point your feet at a Buddha statue. If you are sitting, sit on your knees or bend your legs to the side.

· Don’t touch other people’s heads, especially children's.The head is a sacred part of the body in Buddhist culture.

· Do not touch monks, especially if you are a woman. Women are forbidden to touch monks or even pass objects from hand to hand.

· Don’t speak loudly or laugh out loud.The temple has an atmosphere of silence and contemplation.

· Turn off the sound on your phone.It‘s better to put it off altogether and be in the moment.

How to feel respect, not just “look”

Maintaining external etiquette is important. But even more important is the internal attitude. Thais sense when you’re “just taking a photo” and when you genuinely respect the space.

Try:

· Don’t speak for 5—10 minutes inside the hall. Just watch.

· Sit down against the wall and watch what’s happening.

· Listen to the sounds: the ringing of bells, the wind, footsteps – this is also part of the temple atmosphere.

· Make an offering: place a flower, buy some incense, or leave 20 baht in the box. Even if you’re not Buddhist, it’s an act of respect.

A temple in Thailand is a place worth visiting not only for its beauty but also for its inner silence. These simple rules are enough to show that you are not just a tourist, but a person capable of stopping, removing your shoes, covering your shoulders, and, for a moment, becoming part of a world that lives at a different pace.

And if one day you fall silent in a temple, not because you have to, but because you don’t want to talk, then you have already touched the real Thailand.

Chapter 4. Manners and Mistakes of Tourists

4.1 What not to do – and why

– About the head, legs and loud arguments – Simple phrases that will save you from awkwardness