While love is the main reason why you made the decision to propose to your Thai girlfriend, it is also important to have a better understanding of her culture so that you will be able to cope more easily with her attitude, beliefs and personality in general.
Learning her local customs and traditions is also very helpful whenever you spend time with her friends and family in Thailand. In addition, getting acquainted with the Thai’s way of living is vital in maintaining a healthy relationship with your soon-to-be-wife, her Thai family and her community.
Know How Thai and the American Culture Differ in Several Aspects.
1. Thais place great value on respect and social (hierarchical) relationships while Americans value equality in day to day interactions with others. Below are some of their usual practices.
– A greeting is called Wai in Thailand and it is done by placing two palms together at chest level. The higher the hands, the higher the rank. The highest wais are given to the royalty and the monks.
– When entering a temple, women are dressed respectfully such as clothing that covers their arms and legs.
– In Thailand, respect is earned automatically for people in higher ranks unlike in the USA and other western countries where it is earned. The Royal family must never be criticized. Even the picture of the Royal family is treated with high respect. Also, stepping on a coin or a paper money is a sign of disrespect to the King (whose picture appears on it).
– In receiving, giving or passing of things, Thais bow their heads while placing the left hand under the right elbow.
– Public display of affection is considered impolite in Thailand, even the simple act of holding hands.
2. Careful choice of words is a mainstay in Thai conversation while Americans value direct discussion.
– Thais value control of emotion while Americans prefer spontaneity. For Thais, an expression of negative emotion is considered an act of immaturity.
– Thais are known to be very friendly, soft-spoken and polite while Americans are known for being straightforward. Thais love a person who is polite, reserved and respectful.
3. The Head, the Foot and the Soul.
– For Thais, the head is the most sacred part of the body since it is the source of intelligence and spiritual substance. Thus, touching one’s head is a big NO-NO.
– The feet which touch the ground is the lowest part of the body. Considered to be dirty, it is inappropriate to use the feet to move or touch things or position it above the head.
– Pointing your feet at someone is also considered as an insult in Thai culture. This gesture is equivalent to the American’s way of giving somebody the middle finger.
– Thais remove their shoes when entering a temple. The same is observed when entering a home or offering food to monks.
4. Thai people believe that life should be enjoyed to the fullest. As always, the Thai spirit is fun and relaxed. Most Americans can easily relate to this trait so you and your fiancée can have this as your middle ground.
5. Thai people put little emphasis on either the past or the future as they value the present more while Americans brace the future with predictions.
6. Being on time is highly valued in the US while Thais are very flexible with time. Precise arrangement of appointments is often disregarded. Typically, Thais show up late during meetings.
7. Both cultures share similar belief in the love of freedom. Another wonderful trait that both of your cultures embrace.
These cultural differences can be confusing and challenging, as it takes an open heart and an open mind to understand what it is to be a Thai. You also have to be able to adjust to these practices so that you will avoid offending the cool hearted and patient people of Thailand.
More importantly, understanding Thai culture well can aid you in developing a more meaningful inter-cultural communication with them and you will be able to fully enjoy your visit to this exciting, new world.
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