As long as you say ‘thank you’ with the words you choose, the other person will smile and do the same.
Traveling is super fun in Thailand! People are willing to point you in the right direction. However, just as you would at home, you need to be careful. Not everyone is nice or has good intentions so you must use caution when accepting a deal. While using a taxi, you must point to the meter and ask the driver to turn it on or else he can charge you whatever he wants despite your destination being a mile or half a mile away. If he doesn’t turn on the meter, you step out of the taxi and move on to another one. While it may be scary and embarrassing at first, it is better than being charged more than twice for something that should cost less. Most people are nice and treat strangers respectfully, as long as you do the same.
I have learned how to be respectful to my elders and how to show respect to strangers. I always say ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’ when receiving a service and asking a question. The Thai people use the ‘wai’ which is the pressing of your palms together and slightly bowing your head to show respect. Always use the ‘wai’ when talking to people who are older than you. Otherwise, Thai people are friendly and understand that foreigners have different customs. However, always be respectful. Thai people take off their shoes when entering homes or private businesses. I have learned to do the same. Becoming a part of the community at Rangsit University has been easy because of the welcoming attitude most people have. I believe this school has been by far the most welcoming to international students. Everywhere I have traveled, I have not had a bad encounter with people and I hope they have found to be me respectful as well.
