Things You Need To Know Before Travelling To Thailand

Thailand has been a favourite travel destination for many for years – and for good reasons. It is home to gorgeous beaches, a friendly and exotic culture, historic temples and lots of adventures. Thailand has a thriving tourist infrastructure, yet it's thrilling and exotic. However, there are numerous rules and cultural distinctions you should be aware of before you visit this awesome place. With this knowledge, you'll be able to have the most enjoyable vacation in Thailand while travelling safely in a responsible manner across the country. Don't Ride The Elephants Elephants utilized to travel and for work have been neglected and live in horrible conditions, chained to poles. They are required to walk around in circles and are broken to comply with their mahouts. Instead of riding the elephants, take a trip to an elephant sanctuary to observe retired tourist and log animals in their native habitat. Do Not Take Selfies With Tigers The Tiger Temple outside of Bangkok is shut down, however, there are still many places that display tigers to take photos with tourists. In contrast to the elephant sanctuary that offers safe shelter for retired elephants, places like the Tiger Kingdom are raising tigers and tearing cubs off their mothers to be prodded and poked by tourists. They're not living in the natural habitat and remain in cages. Cover Up Cover your legs and arms when going to temples in Thailand. No matter what your gender, wearing skimpy clothes are not a thing. Particularly when visiting temples or places of worship, as well as in rural regions. Be sure to observe the tradition and cover your shoulders and knees in a temple. Take Off Your Shoes If you are entering temples, stores or private homes, take off your shoes. Flip-flops are the most acceptable type of footwear in Thailand and are simple to put on and take off. Do Not Mention The King Although King Bhumibol Adulyadej died, he was a hero to the public and any disrespect can get you in jail. If you are talking about members of the Royal family, be positive. It's recommended not to bring the subject up at all. Eat With Your Spoon The most commonly used utensils for Thai dishes is the fork. Forks are used to push rice or meat on the spoon before placing the spoon in your mouth. The majority of people don't stab their vegetables or meat using a fork, but instead scoop them up using spoons. Chopsticks are commonly used to eat things such as Pad Thai and other noodle dishes, however when you sit at a table for a meal in Thailand, it is most likely use spoon and fork at your table. Food Service Is Slow Another thing you should be prepared for when dining at a Thai restaurant is the fact that food items will not be served simultaneously. Some people may have completed eating before the next plate is served.