It is really easy to see why so many visitors come to Thailand for holiday as it actually is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit. Like any vacation though, tourists tend to forget that when traveling to a foreign country you have to learn a few basics about the customs and the culture if you really want to fit in. Some traditions and customs that you may want to be educated on are the ones that relate to the Royal family. Knowledge of the King, Queen and the royal family will be very advantageous to the most novice visitor.
When visiting Thailand you should be without doubt that you are up to date on what is going on. This will help you to be comfortable and fit in with your surrounding better. It will assist you to fit in better with the locals and make a better impression with everyone. Below are some of the best hints to help you with your vacation.
Tips for visiting Buddhist Shrines
You will notice that the main religious belief in Thailand is Buddha and the statues and images of this are looked at sacred. If you are planning to travel to a shrine then you will be required to dress and act accordingly. You will not be tolerated if you are dressed in shorts, bathing suit, or a tank top. It is also customized to remove your shoes upon going in.
Women have to be knowing that the Buddhist monks follow strict rules. They are completely disallowed to touch a woman and they cannot touch anything that a woman has just held. Whenever a woman wished to give anything to a monk they must give it to a man first who will then pass it on to the monk.
Typical Gestures and Greetings
As with any culture, greetings and common motions vary greatly. For example Thai people gesture hello by putting their hands together, touching their palms together to form a "wai" which almost appears like there are praying. It is also considered very rude if you use your feet to point at someone or something. The head it the highest part of the body and the Thais take this seriously.
You will also notice that Thai people are very conservative and you will not see anyone walking around without a shirt on. That type of dress is not acceptable.
Mastering a Different Culture
Learning about the culture of another country is half the fun of your vacation. Use the traveling tips to help you get yourself familiar with Thailand ways of life and you will be sure to fit perfect in when you arrive at your destination and you can be sure that you are being respectful to the locals.
Experience Thailand at its Best
There are so many things you can do when visiting Thailand. There is absolutely something for every vacationer. If you are an adventurer who likes to participate in risky actions, you may want to indulge yourself in a white water expedition on the Pai River in Northern Thailand. In Central and Northern Thailand you can enjoy trekking adventures. For culture lovers this country with its many attractions is truly the place to be. The country has many national parks. Vacationers who love to explore nature definitely want miss this place. When it comes to beaches Thailand is absolutely among the top vacation spots in the world. Thailand is also renowned for their delicious spicy food you can try on the many food stalls at almost every street corner. Last not least Thailand is notoriously famous for its nightlife. Your night out in Bangkok, Phuket or Pattaya will be one of the unforgettable events in your life.
Top 5 Places You Shouldn't Miss When Traveling Around Thailand
There are a so many different places you may visit when traveling around Thailand. From the turquoise blue waters and marvelous beaches in the Gulf of Thailand or the Andaman Sea to the beautiful places in the stunning North with its moderate climate. Here you'll get a list of the top destinations in Thailand.
1. Bangkok
Unquestionably it has to be on the list of your top 5 places to visit in Thailand. Spend some time to explore this exciting city where you can find several great attractions to stimulate your eyes.
The Grand Palace, located in the metro is probably the main tourist attraction and for you to miss this place is a big NO NO. It was built in 1782 and it is said to be the home of Thai kings for about 150 years till around the turn of the twentieth century. This is the plce where all important ceremonies and festivities of the country are performed.
Things to take into account when visiting the Grand Palace:
When entering the place there is a strict dress code and you're not allowed to visit unless you abide with this rule. Wat Phra Keow or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is considered to be the most sacred site of the nation, therefore, men are required to wear shirts with sleeves and long pants; no tank tops, while women should also be modestly dressed, no bare skin clothes.
If you are wearing sandals or flip-flops, it is a must to wear socks. Never the less, if you forgot to think of all these dress codes need not worry because there is a kiosk near the entrance that can provide you clothes to cover you up.
2. Phuket Island
This is an marvelous place with its fantastic and attractive sandy beaches and bays, waterfalls, astonishing sceneries and landscapes. Phuket has become a remarkable vacation destination. It is considered to be the biggest islands in Thailand which lies off the southwest of the coast.
There are many famous and interesting things to see on the island which includes Sirinat National Park, Crocodile Farm, Thai Village, Butterfly Garden, Sea Aquarium, Wat Chalong and other Phuket temples. At nighttime, you would like to take a stroll down Patong's Bangla Road, where you can sip a beer or shop around. If you are planning to go here you must equipped yourself with an open mind and a sense of humor in order for you to enjoy the nighttime. The island is also renowned for its beautiful beaches which would include the most popular Patong Beach, Kamala Beach, PanSea, Bang Tao and many more.
3. Ayuthaya
The so called ancient city, is the next place you must see on the list. It was the capital of Thailand for many centuries between 1350 and 1767. It is considered to be a historical place and many visitors are dazzled by its splendor. Most of the religious sculptures and temples were damaged during the Burmese invasion however remains of monuments are still standing and some restored. Ayuthaya can be reached on an extended day trip. It is located about 90 kilometers from Bangkok.
4. Koh Phi-Phi Island
How about an ultimate tropical vacation in the famous island, which is a 45-minute trip from Phuket? Its stunning rock formations and breathtaking white sandy beaches are simply amazing. The island couldn't be more fascinating, with snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking being the most popular activities. On the island there's a wide range of accommodation you can choose from, with lavish hotel resorts, beach huts to luxurious villas. You can't help but love this place.
5. The Tiger Temple
Last, but not the least, this temple is located in Western part of Thailand in the Kanchanaburi province. This place is not only home to monks but it also became a refuge for tigers over 7 years now. The exciting thing with this temple is that you can get up close and personal with the ferocious tigers, isn't that remarkable? The Tiger temple has become well renowned and many people from several parts of the world come to witness the harmonious relationship between the tigers and monks.
Besides the places mentioned above there are still plenty of stunning places to discover in Thailand and so many things to see and to do that this outstanding country can offer. So pack your things now and ready to be swept away by the wonderful things about the Kingdom of Thailand.