Customs and Traditions in Thailand, Koh Samui

Traditions in Koh Samui

When you visit a new country there is no way out to avoid cultural shock. Even if it’s the country next to your country you are going to be amused in its culture, cuisine, traditions and lifestyle. Every nation has its mentality and flattering traditions. Once you choose your destination you can make some research on places to visit, traditions and food lifestyle. This way you can spend your time properly. Having a well-planned vacation will keep you concentrated on discovering new places and adventures. A vacation in Samui can be a dream come true. It depends on the accommodations you choose to rent and believe me , when it comes to Koh Samui rentals you’ll forget about your own place. Koh Samui means nice people, awesome views, delicious foods and a great variety of traditions. Let’s discover the most popular traditions about the luxurious Thai island Koh Samui.

Greeting the Thai way

Those who have been in Thailand even for a day will surely mention that they have a special way of greeting and that’s one of the main things every traveler should know. Thai people often use the " wai”, the traditional way of greeting by pressing your palms together at chest, chin, or forehead height and bowing the head slightly. You can use the wai when saying hello to someone, goodbye, or thanking them. It shows respect and makes people smile at you. I met a guy who was selling cold drinks to some tourists. I was amazed to see that after they paid him he thanked them with the Tai greeting. It was overwhelming.

Days of color

One of the most beautiful traditions you’ll meet in Koh Samui is the "days of color”. It’s a tradition of wearing different colors depending on what day it is. According to pre-Buddhist Hindu legend, each day has a special color associated with it for people to wear. This is based on the color of the God who protects the day. Mondays are all about bright yellow shirts to in honor of the day the King was born, pink is worn on Tuesday, green on Wednesday where the color changes to grey by night, orange is worn on Thursday, light blue on Friday for the Queen’s day of birth, purple on Saturday and red on Sunday. You may pick up colors for each day and join them during your vacation in Koh Samui.

Religious Objects

It’s obvious that every nation comes with its religious traditions that make them stand out. There are a lot of religious sites as well as small altars in homes, hotels, businesses all over Thailand and Koh Samui isn’t an exception. The population of this country country is about 95% Theravada Buddhist. Actually, it’s recommended to avoid touching or disturbing the altars, that often contain fruit, food, garlands, or even money as they mostly belong to their gods, goddesses and saints.

Shoes off

When you enter someone’s home or a religious place make sure you always remove your shoes. It’s better to leave them by the front door. This is another way of respecting this country and its people.

Names

Thai people are usually called by their first names. However you may surprise to notice that it’s preceded with the honorary title which indicates respect, "Khun” for both men and women. They also like to use a wide and interesting array of nicknames between their relatives and close friends. They are mostly inspired by colors, fruit, animals, money, and even automobiles!

Smile

Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles. Almost everyone on the stress smiles at you and that’s so inspiring. You feel yourself safer, happier and welcomed. Thai people are also very communicative and they like to help people around them. So, you will feel more than awesome as a tourist in Koh Samui.

Never mind

"Mai pen rai” is a phrase used in the Thai philosophy for "never mind”. This way people are showing their way of letting worries slip away.

Take it easy

"Sabai Sabai” is the friendliest vibe Thailand has to offer. It means "take it easy” and is full of happiness. All the tourists are using it from the first day they reach Samui.

Reverence for the King

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy and like in any country with the same system people take respect for their King and royal family seriously. You can meet the King’s likeness everywhere - on money, photos in every restaurant, in the newspaper, in taxicabs, on billboards, etc. Thus, it’s better avoid saying anything to disrespect the King or his likeness.

Once you have read all this information, I’m sure you will experience one of your best trips while choosing Koh Samui. All the palm trees, white sand beaches and the clear waters will make it the perfect deal for a relaxing getaway.