What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Bangkok?

We asked people in Bangkok if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...

"Oh God, I'm sure I used a few words that did not have the right tone and was probably a nasty word, but they forgive me. I have had many laughs with Thai's because of something that I thought I said, that I didn't mean. My Thai friends taught me some bad words, that I repeated. Jokes on me! There is much humor in the Thai culture, so don't be embarrased to struggle with language, because it can break the ice. Oh yeah, make sure you eat all of your rice on the plate, as leaving some is an offence," wrote a member who made the move to Bangkok, Thailand.

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"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Bangkok. It is considered rude to point with your feet, so it is best to avoid doing so. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly and to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples and other religious sites. It is also important to be respectful when taking photographs, as some people may not want to be photographed. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and to be respectful of the Thai people and their culture," explained one expat living in Bangkok, Thailand.

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