Thai culture can be a little different when viewed from an outsider. With different customs, food types, and beliefs the Thai culture is often viewed as interesting and a bit odd to some. However in any culture customs vary and are instilled upon one at birth. In the Thai culture it is said that customs vary depending on the region you are from. I thought it might be interesting as well as spread a little knowledge to those that love Thai food and would like to gain a little more insight on the culture it comes from. I have compiled a list of interesting facts for my fellow readers. I hope you enjoy!
- Yelling- Raising your voice or yelling of any kind is not permitted in Thailand. It is believed that one should be soft spoken and humble. When you yell you show signs of losing control and anger. That is frowned upon and believed to be disrespectful.
- Unopened Gifts- If you have ever given a Thai person a gift ,you may have noticed that they set it aside unopened. This is because in our culture is is thought of as rude to tear open the present in front of the giver. Instead we wait until we are by yourself to open the gift and fully focus on what has been given to us. We are very grateful and try to treat the situation as such.
- Ghosts Permission- It is believed that when you are to stay at another person’s house or in a hotel room that you seek permission from the Phra Phum( or ghost of the land). Upon leaving the house/hotel you thank the ghost as well. In some sense I believe it is a type of blessing over you and others.
- Pregnancy- When you become pregnant in Thai Culture you are not to visit the sick, eat chillies or go fishing. Chilies are said to be harmful to the baby, and visiting the sick may make you or the baby sick. As far as fishing goes I’m not exactly sure what is wrong with that but I just know it is part of pregnancy.
- Removing Shoes- You ,must always remove your shoes before walking into your home or that of others. It is thought to be gross and dirty and a sign of disrespect to keep them on. Shoes walk outside and pick up germs, bacteria, and dirt. Knowingly walking into someone’s home with them on shoes that you don’t care.
There are many more interesting facts and beliefs about the Thai Culture. So many it may take awhile to cover them all. At least you may have a little more insight into our culture and perhaps have picked up on the fact that we believe in respect and peace. Although you may not be part of the same culture as someone else it is always good to know basic guidelines. This world is full of diversity and with that we must appreciate and accept others even if they differ from ourselves.