Wai
The wai (ไหว้) is Thailand's traditional greeting: palms pressed together in front of the chest or face, with a slight bow, instead of a handshake. The height of the hands and the depth of the bow signal respect and social hierarchy — higher for monks, elders, and people of higher status, lower and more relaxed between peers. Foreigners aren't generally expected to wai first, but returning one, roughly matching the height and effort of the other person, is read as basic good manners. For a foreigner meeting a Thai partner's family for the first time, getting the wai right — or at least trying — is often the very first impression that gets made, before a single word is exchanged.
Frequently asked questions
Do foreigners need to wai in Thailand?
Not always first, but returning a wai when someone offers one is expected. Thai people generally don't expect foreigners to know the exact rules, but making an effort is noticed and appreciated, especially the first time meeting a partner's family.
Who wais first in Thailand?
The younger or lower-status person generally wais first, and the higher-status person (an elder, a monk, a boss) returns it with a smaller gesture or sometimes just a nod. Height and depth of the wai signal the relative social position of the two people.
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