11 Key Do & Don'ts in Phuket Thailand

Phuket is one of the leading beach destinations in Southeast Asia. You can easily find the best beaches and the best luxury resorts in Thailand, right in Phuket. Learning a little of Thai culture and customs can make your stay in island paradise even more enjoyable.

1. Three Beaches View at the Karon View Point 

Thais love their Royal Family and hold them in the highest regard. Shows of respect for the Thai Royal Family are prevalent and as visitors to the Kingdom of Thailand, it is very important to offer respect to the Royal Family and to effects associated with the Royal Family. For example, Thai coins and banknotes feature a portrait of the present, and former kings, and must be treated with respect.

Criticism, defamation, or insulting of the Thai Royal Family is against the law (defined as “lese majeste”), and may lead to a jail sentence. We recommend refraining from making any negative comments on the Royal Family.

2. Stand for The National and Royal Anthems

You might happen to hear the Thai National Anthem played in public areas. You might be at an event, gathering, or even at the cinema in Phuket when the Royal Anthem. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Similarly, follow the Thais in showing respect. Often, this will be by standing still during the National and Royal Anthems.

3. Respect Thai Customs & Culture

All cultures have their unique customs. We would like to suggest some dos and don’ts help you interact with the locals during your time in Phuket.

4. Do Greet People

Thais are generally friendly and courteous, and they appreciate receiving the same courtesy. Thai give you a “wai”, when they greet you by placing their palms together and raising their hands to their chest or head.

Feel free to reciprocate with your own “wai”. A “wai” can mean “Hello,” “Thank you,” “I’m sorry,” or “Goodbye.” A “wai” has a hierarchy in its use – never “wai” children, street vendors or laborers, even if they “wai” to you. A simple smile or nod is enough.

To accompany the “wai”, you can also say “sawadee”, after which you add the polite particle – “khrap” if you’re male, and “ka” if you’re female. So it’s “sawadee khrap” or “sawadee ka”.

5. Do, Smile… a Lot

Thais are very warm people and a genuine smile can open interaction or smooth the way in difficult situations. It is a simple and easy way to connect with people of any age or gender. Even when negotiating prices at a market, a smile goes a long way to closing the transaction.

6. Don’t Touch Thai People on the Top of Their Head

The head is the most revered part of the body, to touch the top of the head is disrespectful.

7. Don’t Raise Your Feet Above a Thai Person Head

The feet are the lowest, and least revered part of the body, so to raise them above someone’s head is considered extremely disrespectful.

8. Don’t Point with Your Feet

Using the least revered part of the body to point is considered rude and lazy. Likewise, showing the soles of your feet in the direction of another person is also insulting and disrespectful.

9. Don’t Underdress in Public

 How about a luxurious stay at Phuket’s best Resort? The Chinoiserie Collection Resort & Spa welcomes you to experience the same and a lot more.

It is acceptable for males to be shirtless at the beach, but we recommend that men wear a shirt if they leave the beach, especially if entering into a restaurant, shop or public building.
For ladies, do not sunbathe topless in public, and it is highly recommended to wear more than the bikini when not at the beach.
Temples in Thailand are held in high reverence and all visitors should cover-up.

Men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Monks are not allowed to touch females and would appreciate not being touched by ladies as well. Ladies should place their offering into the monks’ alms basket or onto a table.

Escape into nature with our collection of luxuriously appointed suites that are connected to the warm water and calm shores of Nai Harn Beach. 

Have complete relaxation at the Orientalism Spa and taste some delectable global cuisine at the Empress Teahouse. 

Adding to this, 24-hour spotlight service, saltwater chlorine pool, in-door Watsu rejuvenation pool, steam, sauna, gym, library, private dining, vehicle rental, and a lot more services will let you enjoy the best things to do in Phuket. 

#10 Don’t Do Drugs

Just don’t.

#11 Do Have Fun

Phuket is an enjoyable vacation destination and the locals all do wish for you to have fun. Be relaxed, smile a lot and apply common sense, and we are confident that you will have one of the best vacations possible.

Chinoiserie Collection Resort & Spa is one of the best luxury resorts in Phuket. Our Front Desk can help to guide you if you need further information on how best to enjoy your stay in Phuket.

To book your accommodation with us, you can simply contact us over a call or from our website.