Thailand

Respect & manners

• Greet with a "wai": palms together, a small bow, and "sawasdee".
• Respect the monarchy at all times: laws are very strict. Never damage, step on or mock pictures of the King, even on banknotes.
• The head is sacred and the feet are low: don't touch anyone's head, and never point your feet at people or at Buddha images.
• In temples, cover shoulders and knees and take your shoes off. Women must not touch monks.
• Keep calm and smile ("jai yen", cool heart): shouting makes you lose face.
• E-cigarettes and vapes are illegal in Thailand, and drug laws are very strict: don't take any risk.