Wai, Words, and Smiles: How to Talk the Thai Way

If you’re learning about Thai culture, one of the most important things to explore is how people in Thailand communicate and show respect. Thai customs are filled with politeness, warmth, and tradition—and they begin with a smile!

Whether you’re meeting someone for the first time, visiting a home, or sharing a meal, Thai people have special ways of doing things that show kindness and respect. Let’s discover some of these customs together!

The “Wai” – A Special Thai Greeting

In Thailand, instead of shaking hands, people greet each other with a gesture called the “wai.” To do a wai, you place your palms together like you’re praying and gently bow your head. This greeting is used to say hello, goodbye, thank you, or even sorry. It’s a simple but beautiful way to show respect.

Younger people usually wai first, especially to elders. If someone does a wai to you, it’s polite to return it unless they are a child or in a service role—in that case, just smile and nod in response.

Taking Off Your Shoes

Another important custom is removing your shoes before entering someone’s home or a sacred place like a temple. Thai people believe that shoes carry dirt and should not be worn inside clean spaces. You’ll often see shoe racks outside homes, schools, and even some shops or restaurants.

Always look for a place to take off your shoes when entering a building—it shows that you are thoughtful and respectful of Thai culture.

Sharing Food the Thai Way

In Thailand, meals are often shared with family or friends, and there are special manners to follow. Instead of taking a big portion for yourself, you are expected to taste a little bit of everything. This shows that you appreciate the effort your host put into the meal.

It’s also considered impolite to say no when someone offers you food. Even just taking a small bite is a kind gesture. Thai people enjoy mealtimes as a way to bond and show hospitality.

Learning Thai Culture Through Fun Activities

Want to practice Thai customs and language in a fun way? With Dinolingo, children can explore Thai through interactive lessons, songs, videos, and games. Dinolingo makes it easy for kids ages 2 to 14 to learn not only the language but also the culture, manners, and greetings that are so important in Thai life. It works on the web, iOS, and Android, and includes offline access and a helpful parent dashboard.