There are certain things Thai people do which might best be described as unconventional, odd, or even bizarre. From picking the nose in public places to putting ice in beer, this seemingly strange behavior often leaves observers in a state of puzzlement or disbelief.
Much of this is rooted in things like face, kreng jai, and Thai culture. Here are examples of these unusual Thai habits, along with brief explanations to make things a little clearer.
If you find yourself doing any of them, it might be a sign that you’ve been in Thailand too long.
Thais accept gifts without opening them: It’s said that this has much to do with kreng jai, to avoid any embarrassment that might be caused if a gift is not appreciated or as expected.
Pick their nose in public: You will often see Thais having a good old rummage up their nose in public places. It’s simply one of those habits Thais are not picky about, pardon the pun.
Cover their mouth when using a toothpick: In contrast to public nose-picking, Thais are a little picky about using a toothpick, and you almost always see them using one to cover their mouth as they pick their teeth.
Thais put ice in their beer: Some foreigners think it’s uncool, even sacrilege, when they see Thais putting ice in their beer. Thailand being such a warm country, though, where beer is often drunk outdoors, adding ice to beer to keep it cool is as commonplace as adding it to Coca Cola.
Sit on the floor to eat: Even if there’s a dining table handy, when there’s a gathering of friends or family, Thais often choose to sit on the floor to eat. Perhaps because many grew up without a table, and it’s what they’re accustomed to.
Wear sticky plasters on their temples: You might assume that they have somehow received a minor injury on each temple, but the sticky plasters are usually medicated and worn to cure headaches or dizziness.
Sunbathe fully clothed: Similarly, you often see Thais who work outdoors wearing a balaclava, despite the uncomfortable heat. Thais generally consider paler skin as more beautiful and a status symbol, so keep covered up to protect their skin from the sun.
Use hazard lights to signal they are going straight: You’ll often see vehicles using their hazard lights to signal they are going straight on at junctions. Seeing as other drivers might only see the left or right indicator and assume that’s where the vehicle is turning, I really don’t see any logic in the idea. So, sorry, this one remains unexplained.