Blogs on Teaching and Living in Thailand

So, you made the move and are looking forward to spending a small (or large) portion of your life in Thailand. This is a big decision with its rewards, but just like anything, comes with some drawbacks. As a dual national studying within the educational system (albeit in the international school sphere), working in the country, teaching in Thai schools, both public and private for 10+ years, and living in the Kingdom for well over 35 years, I’d be happy to give out some general pointers in regards to settling here in Thailand, and perhaps revisit this in another blog that touches upon teaching here.

1. Learn some phrases and general respectful body language cues

I believe this applies to any (and perhaps every) country. The locals will certainly appreciate the effort you put into learning the language. One very important aspect of Thai to remember. Add in a คฺรับ (krup) for men and a คะ (kha) for the ladies at the end of sentences for an added sense of politeness and you can easily win the hearts of the locals.

And the body language. The wai (prayer hand gesture) done with a bow of the head and feet placed right next to each other, used to greet, thank, show appreciation and apologize amongst other things, will also endear you to the locals.

In fact, here are some very basic phrases to get you started. Done forget the คฺรับ (krup) คะ (kha)

• Hello or Goodbye – สวัสดี (Sawasdee)
• How are you – คุณเป็นอย่างไรบ้าง (Khun ben yung ngai bang)
• Thank you – ขอบคุณ
• (for men) My name is _______ - ผมชื่อ (Pom chue ____)
• (for ladies) My name is _____ - หนูชื่อ (Noo chue ____)

2. Religion (Theravada Buddhism in particular) is very intertwined with the culture

Religion and state are almost one in Thailand. Meaning the teachings of Buddhism (and its various interpretations) practically dominate the lives of many here. It is best to not critique it (whether you may think religion and state should be completely separate or you may not agree with certain aspects of the religion) but to appreciate how it can shape the actions and mindset of over 95% of the population here. The same can be said of Islam, the next major religion, with about 4% of its population adhering to this faith.

3. Thais value face – a lot

So, what does this mean? It can mean different things to different people, but generally, Thais do not show much emotion or feelings in public, especially negative ones like anger, incompetence, embarrassment, etc. Unlike the West, perhaps if bursts of anger is warranted, culturally it is accepted to display that feeling. Not so much here. What said emotion can do is:

a. Lose the victim’s face, where he/she will feel shame and even worthless. Thais also do not take criticism well, even if it is constructive and well-meaning (again, back to the lose face point).

1. The angry person can also lose face, perhaps as one that gets angry easily and is inconsiderate of other people’s feeling. Thais gossip and word will spread like wildfire. So your reputation will sink fast. Nobody will want to work with you or even associate themselves with you.

So, what to do if anger is warranted, for example? The best approach is to talk privately. Also, be mindful of your words, so that it is not taken as a personal attack, but more as a means for future improvement. I can tell you, approaching things this way in Thailand is a skill, but it does teach you to be more humble and aware of how your words/actions can affect people.

4. Thais are not time-conscious people; meaning they will be late a lot!

Even me, a half-Thai living here almost my whole life, I still get irritated by this! And to be honest there really is no excuse for constant tardiness. But, the best ways to deal with this are:

1. Come to terms that whatever appointment you set with someone here, there is a greater than 50% chance that he/she will be late.
2. Thais generally say approximate (ประมาณ – Braman) when they make time appointments. So, take this as a give or take of about 15 minutes, orno more than 30 minutes.
3. Find something productive to do as you wait for your appointment.

5. Thais are certainly ‘judge a book by its cover’ people

Here in Thailand, first impressions count, a lot. Which is why learning the language, the polite phrases and the body language cues are important. In addition, dressing up a bit will also catch the attention (positively) of a local.

The good news here is that you are a foreigner. And that it is hot and humid here most of the year. So, they will give you some leeway with a T-shirt, shorts and sandals if you are casually walking around the city or shopping mall, knowing that you are probably not used to this weather. But, keep in mind that this dress-code will not suffice in places of religious importance like major temples, so dress appropriately if you decide to visit those.

Here are some general pointers to keep in mind when you are out and about with a local. It is always a good idea to be in their good graces. People here really adhere to, “I’ll treat you as you treat me”, which is relevant everywhere anyway. And if you really win their hearts, you’ll be surprised the great lengths they will take to do something for you, just because you left a very good impression on them. In addition, Thais also value connections and networking, so you may never know how your good relationship with a local can help you out in the future.

Also, smile a lot. ?

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Blog by Ben

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Note that the author of the blog is expressing personal thoughts and musings, which do not necessarily reflect those of KruTeacher. Therefore, KruTeacher.com cannot be held responsible for any potential inaccuracies that may be present in the blog.