Useful tips on how to correctly behave in Pattaya

Posted by Party Pete on December 23rd, 2007 filed in Thai habits

If you are willing, before the beginning of your holiday, to learn about basic customs and cultural traditions in Pattaya, it might turn out to be very useful, when ending up in certain unfamiliar situations. One nation’s culture considers certain behaviour as correct manners while according to traditional customs in another country it may be considered as impolite and insulting. With regards to the West the best example is perhaps that in the UK it is an appreciated gesture to bring a bottle of wine along, when visiting someone. However, in France this would be very impolite as the hosts will experience this, as their visitors’ suggestion, not having a decent wine in stock.

The serving staff members at restaurants in the US expect that customers leave a nice tip (around 15%) after their diner. In Middle East nations it’s totally incorrect to pick up food with the left hand. This hand is used for cleaning a person’s behind after the big job at the toilet is completed.

So you have made the decision to spend your next vacation in the extremely popular seaside resort destination of Pattaya in Thailand. Sure! Pattaya offers so much that it is definitely possible to have a great and unforgettable holiday here. However, below I will mention some useful Pattaya etiquette tips, which might make your holiday even more pleasurable:

* When entering a local’s house or a Buddhist temple you should make sure not to wear shoes.

* When entering a local’s home you should never step on the threshold. The Thais believe that the threshold houses spirits, which sanctuary should not be disturbed. You should do the same with regards to thresholds of temples.

* When visiting a temple ground you should dress respectfully. Not done are sleeveless-t-shirts, shorts, bikinis and other similar clothing. Climbing or posing on Buddha statues is absolutely prohibited!

* The Thai royal family, especially the king is highly respected by the population. Images of royal family members should be handled with respect. Try to avoid standing on coins and bills, as they all carry the king’s image.

The highly-respected and adored Thai king

* Feet should never be used for pointing at somebody or something.

* Thais believe that the head is a person’s purest body part. A Thai person’s head should not deliberately be touched.

* At public places a couple should never openly kiss or passionately smooch. Yes! Even in Pattaya such behaviour is considered to be rude!

* Tipping staff at regular restaurants is not really necessary. The more exclusive restaurants usually include a service charge of about 15% in the bill.

* Probably the best advice I can give you is to always make use of your common sense.

Holidaymakers who are planning to visit Pattaya for the first time should be aware of the important advice, given below!

-Stay alert and always be aware of the usual crime-preventing measures. Obviously you should not show off large amounts of money or valuable belongings. Make sure your valuables are stored safely. Avoid strolling throughout deserted areas during night. The English speaking Tourist Police in Pattaya can be reached by calling: 1155.

-Never buy any kind of drugs in Pattaya! Compared with countries in the West, punishment for drug offenders in Thailand is extremely harsh. Even the possession of a single joint might get you into severe problems.

-Do not support the wild animal products trade. Never buy souvenirs, which are produced from ivory, monitor lizards, turtle shell and snakes.

Well, now that you are aware of all the most important trouble-preventing tips, there’s nothing that might ruin your deserved, fun-filled Pattaya holiday.