7. Avoid Pointing with Your Fingers
When hailing for a taxi, otherwise known as a tuk-tuk, on the street or beckoning a waiter in a restaurant, do not point your fingers up. Make sure that your palm is facing downward and you fingers are straight with an up and down movement. Never clap, snap your fingers, or whistle to get someone’s attention, as this considered is very rude in Thai culture. Thais believe you call a dog in this way and not a human.
8. Try Not to Touch a Thai’s Head
Do not touch a Thai person’s head or ruffle their hair, as this is seen as very disrespectful. If you happen to touch someone’s head by accident, apologize immediately. Thai people will sometimes pat a child on the head, but as a Westerner it’s best not to do this to any child to prevent any embarrassment. Thais see the head as the highest part of the body.
9. Can’t Take Buddha Pictures Out of Thailand
It is highly illegal to take or send any pictures of Buddha out of the country, unless special permission has been granted. Many shop owners will still try to sell you pictures, but they will not tell you about the regulations of taking them home. Also, standing on a Buddha statue to have your photograph taken is one of the most disrespectful things that you can do in Thailand, because you are placing the lowest (the feet) upon the highest (Buddha).
