Thai people are incredibly non-confrontational, so often you won't know that you've done something offensive, because they won't tell you. That being said, they are very forgiving to foreigners who make an effort to follow the Thai behavioral norms. Little head bows. Whenever I thank someone, I find myself, slightly ducking my head. To everyone: baristas, waiters, 7/11 employees, etc. I don't "wai" to them (prayer hands), but ducking your head is respectful and humbling. Wai-ing. Whenever you meet someone new, press your hand together and bring the tops of your fingers near your mouth. Smile. Always smile. Getting ANGRY is BAD in Thailand. I've lived here for a few months, and I've seen a Thai person get publicly angry only one time. Once. Crazy, huh? Don't be loud. Sort of similar to not getting angry, is not getting agitated or worked up, or making a public display of emotion. Thai people are SUPER laid back, generally. Not a lot upsets them, and they won't understand why you are freaking out about your bus being late. Don't point. Pointing is automatic for me, a westerner. I point to things I like, people I'm talking to or about, for giving directions, etc. But I've found that if you point at a Thai person, they view it as you accusing them of something. Little/no PDA. Hand-holding is occasionally seen among teenagers, but generally, Thai people don't show physical affection publicly. I've never seen a Thai couple kiss or hug. I've never even seen parents/children hug/kiss each other either. If you are kissing/hugging in public, you'll be stared at. If you're a female, DON'T TOUCH A MONK, don't sit too close to them on public transport. They aren't allowed to touch a woman. They're very friendly, but that would be very offensive to them if you touched them. Hopefully, this helps!
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