Traditions, Lifestyle & Habits in Bangkok

The local people are hospitable and very friendly to tourists. Bangkok is often called "the city of smiles" for open and welcoming attitude to visitors. The manner of behavior of local residents may seem rather strange to tourists - even during the hot dispute they do not raise their voices. Visitors should also communicate with the local people in a soft and calm voice. The Thais are very sensitive to their homes, so when entering a house either hosts or guests always take their shoes off. Speaking of the manner of communication, we should definitely mention the local body language. While communicating with the locals any contact (friendly hug or patting on a shoulder) is simply not allowed. Men are can be welcomed with a handshake. If you want to say hello to a person on a distance, simply lay your palms at a chest level - this gesture means a warm welcome.

Do not sit cross-legged in public places or in someone’s house – this pose can be considered a sign of disrespect. Local people are very sensitive when it comes to the royal family, so any careless word about the government may hurt them badly. One more "not recommended" theme for discussion with the citizens and inhabitants of the country is religion. Locals show warm attitude to religious sites and sacred sites of the country and visitors must also show respect.

Many traditions and customs of the locals may seem quite nice and fun to observe. The natives follow these traditions for many hundreds of years. For example, you can see a small wooden house next to each house or a public institution and store. It is made for the "keeper of the home" - a kind spirit that protects the owner and his house from all troubles. After moving to a new home, the owner must first make a small house for the keeper. Subsequently, he needs to make generous gifts to the spirit. Usually these are fruits, beautiful flowers and sweets. It is believed that if you follow these rules and make the spirit happy, it will bring good luck and prosperity to the house.

More about Bangkok:
Local cuisine and restaurants
Entertainment in Bangkok
What to visit in Bangkok
Bangkok tips
Cityguide to Bangkok
Bangkok photogallery