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Wai Visitor In Thailand

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How to ‘Wai’ as a Visitor in Thailand
First, we need to consider what the ‘Wai’ is. The reality is that it is a standard method of greeting people in Thailand. It dates back to the 12th century, and is done by raising both hands clasped together in front of you. In times long ago this was done to show you are holding no weapon, which is, strangely enough, the reason why foreigners shake hands. Let us now look at when, how and with which people we should ‘Wai’.
Learning the ‘Wai’
To start with, the height of your hands in relation to your head, displays how much respect you are showing to the person. The easiest method, your fingertips will be slightly below your chin, Ensure the palms are together such as in the praying posture that is used …show more content…

Try going to a Thai school, all the teachers will be dressed in long sleeved shirts, black pants or skirts. If you go to government office, you may notice that the staff will be dressed in a semi military uniform; this is how the country works. Visitors do not have to strictly obey Thai manners. Your best efforts will be highly appreciated, as I have said prior if someone “Wais”, just give them a friendly smile and a nod. There are of course some basic rules that you need to follow, please see, basic do’s/dont’s, different rules apply to foreigners in Thailand. You will also find that if you are in a restaurant, you are not expected to ‘Wai’ the staff, a friendly smile is all that is needed. In addition, it is not necessary to ‘Wai’ a child, but sometimes teachers are expected to; remember you are a visitor here. If you are visiting someone’s house then you should ‘Wai’ them on your arrival, and again on your …show more content…

This happens from time to time, but if they have worked with foreigners for some time they will understand it. At times the ‘Wai’ can be rather confusing, for example if you are at a large meeting everyone will be ‘Wai’-ing and bowing, you might start feeling a little overwhelmed by it all., just relax and go with it.

Thoughts on Thai

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