Part VI-a:  Some background on the social values practiced by the people of Thailand

·               Buddhist teachings are at the root of the typical Thai's sincere consideration for others.  A stranger visiting a village or small town will rarely be seen as an intruder.  The villagers will take him in, offer him food and treat him as a friend.  Buddhism also lies behind the response when something unfortunate happens.  Usually a Thai will gracefully submit to external forces beyond his control because it is his karma.

·               Although highly individualistic and resisting regimentation, Thais nevertheless realize that inner freedom is best preserved in an emotionally and physically stable environment.  Therefore, they believe that social harmony is best maintained by avoiding any unnecessary friction in their contacts with others.  From this has grown the strong Thai feeling of “Krengchai,” which means an extreme reluctance to impose on anyone or disturb his personal equilibrium by direct criticism, challenge or confrontation.  In general, people will do their utmost to avoid personal conflict.

·               Outward expressions of anger are also regarded as dangerous to social harmony and as being obvious signs of ignorance, crudity and immaturity.  Displays of dismay, despair, displeasure, or disapproval are frowned upon.  Accordingly the person who is, or appears to be, serenely indifferent is respected for having what is considered an important virtue.

·               Within such a behavioral framework, Thais share very definite views on what constitutes friendship.  Sincere friendship among Thais is extremely intense; The language is rich in expressions which reflect the degree of involvement and willing self-sacrifice.  Such relationships are found particularly among men. An “aphuan tai” (translation - death friend) is a companion for whom it would be an honor to die.  Should a friend become involved in difficulties, his friend feels an obligation to help him regardless of the danger to himself because “one must help one's friends.” This requirement is a sensitive point of honor and explains many circumstances that often baffle outsiders.

·               Outward displays of affection are greatly frowned upon.  You may see young people holding hands while strolling in a park, but you will never ever see anything more than that.  If  by chance you are on the street at night and observe close physical contact between a couple, you can count on the female being a prostitute.  A self-respecting Thai lady would never openly display affection in public. This is just not done. Again, this is an influence of Buddhist teachings. 

Part VI-b: A Few Words of Advice if You're Planning a Trip to Thailand

1.  When changing money, you will get the best rate using new $100 and $50 bills; a lesser rate for $20 and $10 bills.  Changing travelers checks will incur a fee.  The change booths at the airport gave the best rate we could find.  ATM machines frequently found in Bangkok gave the same rate.   ATM machines are not very common in other parts of the country.  Also carry a goodly number of crisp new $1 bills.  They work well for tips and small items until you get larger bills changed.

2.  When visiting temples; you will be required to remove your shoes.  If you are wearing sandals be sure to have a pair of socks in your day pack to slip on so that you won’t burn your feet on hot stone steps.  Wearing shoes that close with Velcro straps instead of laces will make it easier to get them on and off during these visits.

3.  Knees and upper arms must be covered when visiting temples.  Bare midriffs and extremely tight jeans are also frowned upon.

4.  Napkins in elegant restaurants are a work of art, often starched and folded into lovely shapes.  Napkins in smaller, more basic restaurants are almost non-existent.  They have the consistency of a sheet of our toilet paper and are about the same size.  I recommend taking a cotton bandana in a sandwich size plastic bag in your day pack.  If you get it dirty or greasy during a meal, you just slip it back in the bag and rinse it out that evening in your room.  It will be ready to go the next day.

5.  A second bandana is very useful to tie around your forehead to keep sweat out of your eyes  or around your neck to absorb sweat on hikes.

6.  Antiseptic gel for cleaning your hands is very useful, especially when you are eating in small places and want to be sure your hands are definitely clean.

7.  Bottled water is a must.  Every hotel we stayed in provided a liter per person per day.  Everyone was also given a half liter each day on the bus, and if we needed another half liter on the days we were traveling great distances it was available for us.  You should always have water with you, especially if you are out in the countryside.

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