There are certain things Thai people do which might at best be described as unconventional, odd, even bizarre. The Thais seemingly strange behavior often leaves observers in a state of puzzlement or disbelief. I’m not going to try and explain these apparently strange Thai behavior traits, it’s just the way it is, “this is Thailand”. I will say though, when you have lived in Thailand for a number of years it doesn’t seem strange at all, and you occasionally witness ex-pats and adventurous tourists sampling or doing some very “Thai Things”.
Strange Thai Behavior.
Thais accept gifts without opening them:
I have no idea why this is, but I would imagine it has spared the blushes of many cheap charlies.
Stop in the middle of the road and call in 7-11:
This is visible proof of the pulling power of 7-11.
Throw litter out the car window:
This is actually a gesture of public goodwill, as it keeps street cleaners employed.
Leave you a missed call and wait for you to call back:
If it’s your wife, she’s probably hinting that you are giving her insufficient pocket money.
Pick their nose in public:
Thais just aren’t picky about some things.
Cover their mouth when using a tooth pick:
On the other hand, they are picky about some things.
Thais put ice in their beer:
All things considered, it could possibly be the best way to drink Thai beer.
Sit on the floor to eat:
Not always, but if there is not a table big enough for the (always) numerous dishes or people, the floor it has to be.
Set the air conditioning to 18 degrees:
“Thank Heavens” that’s the lowest setting, if they could set it to minus 18, I’m sure they would.
Wear 2 plasters on their temples to cure a headache:
Because one is not enough. Don’t be silly, of course it works.
Eat smelly food:
Thais will simply tell you it smells like hell but tastes like heaven, especially the infamous Durian.
Spend long periods of time with an inhaler up their nose.
Maybe they are trying to tell us something.
Use whitening cream:
Thais like white skin.
Sunbathe fully clothed.
Whitening cream is expensive.
Laugh at other peoples misfortunes:
Don’t we all ?.
Hold lighted fireworks in their hand:
They really need a rocket up their arse for this one.
Pronounce words beginning with “st” as “sat”:
No need to be alarmed, unless you’re name is Stan.
Roll their R’s:
Because they can.
Eat insects:
There’s no accounting for taste.
Use toilet paper as table napkins:
A unique blend of toilet humor and table manners.
Thais only use their left hand in the toilet:
It is still customary to use only the hand (no paper) and a scoop of water to clean yourself after using the toilet in Thailand. Say no more.
Use their right hand to eat:
Refer to the above.
Squat on western toilets:
Thais prefer ‘squat toilets’, and I guess it’s not impossible to squat on a western toilet.
Things Thais Don’t Do
Dust high shelves and tops of cupboards:
out of sight, out of mind.
Leave tips:
Believe it or not, tipping is not compulsory in Thailand.
Remove the heads and tails from prawns.
I suppose any race of people who can eat insects is not going to be perturbed at the sight of a mere head and tail.
Have you noticed any strange Thai habits or behavior
Please use the comments box to report your observances of strange habits and wacky behavior you have seen in Thailand.