Thailand has deep traditions, and Samui — despite its tourist character — is no exception. Understanding local customs helps visitors avoid awkward situations and build respectful connections with local residents.

The Wai — Thai Greeting

The traditional Thai greeting is the wai: palms pressed together in front of the chest or face, with a slight bow of the head. The higher the hands and the deeper the bow, the more respect is expressed. Tourists don't need to initiate a wai, but responding to a local's greeting with one is a sign of politeness. When responding to a wai from a child or service staff, a simple nod and smile is fine.

Respect for the Monarchy

The monarchy in Thailand is considered sacred. Criticism or disrespectful comments about the royal family are a criminal offence under the lèse-majesté law. Visitors should avoid all comments on this topic regardless of context — the law applies to foreigners as well as Thai nationals.

Head and Feet

In Thai culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body and feet the lowest. Accordingly: never touch anyone's head (including a child's) without permission; don't point at people or objects with your feet; don't put feet on tables or chairs in public. In temples, be especially careful to sit so that your feet do not point toward Buddha images.

Behaviour in Temples

Thai Buddhist temples (wats) are active religious sites open to visitors. When visiting:

  • Dress appropriately: shoulders and knees covered (most popular temples offer sarongs at the entrance)
  • Remove shoes before entering temple buildings
  • Don't turn your back to Buddha images when photographing
  • Keep noise levels low and behaviour respectful
  • Women should not touch monks or hand objects directly to them — place items nearby or pass through a third person

Buddhist Monks

Orange-robed monks are a regular sight on Samui. They hold a special place in Thai society. In the mornings, monks walk through villages collecting alms (tam bun) — food, flowers, candles offered by local residents. Tourists can observe this ritual respectfully.

Sabai Sabai: The Thai Approach to Life

"Sabai" in Thai means comfortable, well, relaxed. The expression "sabai sabai" captures a core Thai value — living without unnecessary tension, maintaining calm, and avoiding conflict. Public displays of anger or aggression are seen as losing face ("sia na") — a serious social signal. Disagreements are expected to be handled calmly and with a smile. "Sanuk" (fun, enjoyment) is another key concept: Thais value work and life that bring genuine pleasure, not just results.

Songkran — Thai New Year

Songkran (April) is the main celebration in the Thai calendar. Traditionally it's a water festival: people pour water over each other from buckets, water guns, and hoses — symbolically washing away sins and troubles of the passing year. On Samui, as across Thailand, Songkran becomes a massive street celebration. Anyone venturing outside during these days is likely to get thoroughly soaked — that's part of the festival.

Dress Beyond the Beach

Bikinis and board shorts are perfectly appropriate on the beach. But beyond beach zones, Thais expect more covered clothing — especially in town centres and shopping malls. Visiting temples in shorts and without covered shoulders is not acceptable. This is a matter of respect, not just a formal rule.