Sawadee ka from "the land of smiles" AKA Thailand.
Thailand is a beautiful place, but oh so different from home. Let me just name a few…
1) Thailand is a kingdom ruled by King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The people of Thailand love him and he truly cares for the people. When asked ANY question about the king you should ALWAYS respond with "He is a great man" to avoid any controversy.
2) "To be Thai is to be Buddhist" 94% of the population is Buddhist. 
3) The head is considered the holiest part or most honorable part of ones body. It is an insult to touch a person's head or reach over it.
4) The foot is considered to be the dirtiest part of the body. Never point the bottoms of your feet at anyone.
5) It is not polite to show emotion in public. Or laugh loudly in public.
6) Be prepared to be asked seemingly rude or prying questions. You can make a joke of your anwer though.
7) Always remove your shoes before entering a house. 
8) It is impolite to yell, shout, or speak loudly in public.
9) Gifts are opened in private and not in front of the giver.
10) Monks are forbidden to be touched or touch a woman, or to accept anything from them. Give them there space and try to have a man in the group with you.
11) They drive on the opposite side of the road from us.
12) Be prepared for the squatty potty and toilets with hoses to clean your bottom.
13)You can get a whole meal for about $1. 
14) The have a whole different kind of alaphabet.
15) There are dos and don'ts of when to "wai" or "bow". 
It seems like a lot to remember or keep track of, but I promise that after a few days you will have the hang of it.
Pra jaow uay pbon! Pope gaan mai ka!
(God bless you! See you later!)
