How do I Greet Women in Thailand?

Greet Thai women with a wai.

When visiting Thailand, you will find that residents appreciate an effort on your part to adhere to social customs when greeting women. Greet a woman in Thailand with a wai--a hand gesture and verbal greeting. When approaching a woman older than you, always greet her first. If you are greeted by a woman in Thailand, it is considered an insult not to return a greeting unless there is a vast age or social difference between you and the greeter. With more than 33 million women in the country, you'll have plenty of chances to practice.

Instructions

1. Press your palms together, as if in prayer and hold them at either chest or chin level.

2. Bow your head slightly toward your hands. If you are a man, bow slightly. If you are a woman, curtsy.

3. Give a verbal greeting. Men say "Sawasdee kraab," and women say "Sawasdee ka."

Tips & Warnings

• A wai is used for "hello" and "goodbye" and is also used as a thank you or an apology.

References

• International YMCA: Thailand
• Tourism Thailand: Travel Tips

Resources

• Thailand Life: Thai Women
• Thailand: Thailand Culture and People of Thailand