BASiC THAi

Before we get to the Pattaya Nightlife Guide here are some general Thai behaviour that we all should be aware of...

SAY HELLO! Thai's don't shake hands, they 'wai' and will on occasion appreciate it if a foreigner does the 'wai'. Just don't wai first to someone younger than yourself or someone doing you a service you're paying for, and, actually there are many rules on how a 'wai' is performed properly so better just fuggetabouit!

HEAD'S UP & FEET ON THE GROUND! Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body, as such touching someone’s head is entirely unacceptable - so a friendly pat on the head can end up as a sore shin. Whereas the feet are the lowest (are you following this?) So do not use your feet to point at people or things, especially not using the soles of your feet.

RELAX & SMILE! In Thailand expect things to take longer than wherever you're from. Shouting and getting annoyed is frowned upon by the Thais, whatever the situation/reason. So if, I mean when, you're facing frustrations do so quietly and calmly. Getting mad for Thais is a signs of lack of discipline and control and will probably just lead to the Thai you are confronted with to smile, in the hope to help you ‘save face’, maybe he'll even laugh to defuse the situation which will then only get you more fuming. So have another drink (unless that's the reason you got annoyed in the first place). In fact, try smiling instead; smile, as much as you can coz Thais smile under any kind of situation, it's most probably not going to help but at least you look happy.

SHOW OF PUBLIC AFFECTION - DON'T! Caressing, cuddling, fondling, hugging, kissing, petting, smooching, snuggling, necking - affectionate play in public are frowned upon – especially amongst older Thais - so try to find someone younger to do it to.

DON'T DRIVE! Have another drink! There are plenty of inexpensive taxi meters, tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, songthaews, etc.that will bring you back to the hotel safe and sound - they are used to drinking while driving. Remember in Thailands they drive on the wrong side of the road (and I don't mean on the left).

DON'T DO DRUGS! Thais takes drugs very seriously... uh... Thais are trying to eradicate drugs entirely. Don’t partake or trade in illegal substances. If you test positive on a drug test penalties will be harsh and trading in drugs means the death penalty or decades in prison, a Thai Prison!

DON'T GAMBLE! Gambling is prohibited in Thailand and so is prostitution. Always wear a condom and don't ask for receipts!

Ok, did you get all that? There will be a quiz later! Click >> [ Pattaya's Nightlife - level 1 ]