Lyse’s guidebook

Thailand is one of the most fascinating countries to visit on earth. Culturally there are many practices and beliefs that are very different to those from Western societies. Here’s a few to whet your appetite to learn more, and to practice respectfully while you travel throughout Thailand. • The Royal Family of Thailand is held in very high respect. Making derogatory remarks about any of the royal family is against the law.

The traditional greeting is with two hands prayer-like palms together known as a wâi. If a local gives a wâi to you, to be polite, it is nice to wâi back. A wâi, however, is always appreciated. Watch this short video on how to give a wâi.

Thai culture places certain spiritual importance to certain parts of the body. You should not point your feet at people, touch people with your feet, prop your feet up on seats or tables or step over people sitting on the ground. The head in contrast has a much higher importance. Avoid touching people on the head as this is considered very rude. You should also avoid sitting on pillows meant for head rests. In some rural areas, food is often served while seated on the ground. Stepping over food on the ground is another extremely rude gesture and will surely embarrass your Thai host.

Throughout all of Thailand, if you notice a pile of shoes at or near an entrance to a home, shop or guesthouse, you should remove your shoes before entry; it is considered rude not to do so.

It is very easy to go around Pai if you are a bicycle lover. Althought it can be quite challenging because of the hills...going up and down. Renting a motorbike in Pai is very usual. BUT be careful. More and more people get injured while driving a motorbike because of the number of people who does not really know how to drive. So you can book 1h session at one of the motorbike rental to make sure you know the rules in Thailand and basic about driving a motorbike. It can save you for sure.

Farm visits are the best for the kids here. At Pai Seedlings Foundation, they organize half-day mud building class with family and kids. The kids just love it so much. There is a great kids area near Good life Dacha and the Wednesday market Regarding vehicules, you can rent a beautiful motorbike with a side-car in town called Candy Road motorcycles https://www.facebook.com/candyroadsidecars/

Monday morning market near the airport Wednesday morning market near Godd life Dacha Morning markets (every day) in front of TOA shop

Every nights, there is walking street open from 5pm to 9pm in the center of Pai (you cannot miss it) with amazing street food and atmosphere.