One of the most distinctive Thai customs is the wai, which is similar to the Indian namaste gesture. Showing greeting, farewell, or acknowledgment, it comes in several forms reflecting the relative status of those involved, but generally it involves a prayer-like gesture with the hands and a bow of the head. A notable social norm holds that touching someone on the head may be considered rude. It is also considered rude to place one's feet at a level above someone else's head, especially if that person is of higher social standing. This is because the Thai people consider the foot to be the dirtiest and fattest part of the body, and the head the most respected and highest part of the body. This also influences how Thais sit when on the ground—their feet always pointing away from others, tucked to the side or behind them. Pointing at or touching something with the feet is also considered rude.

“Education in Thailand” is provided mainly by the Thai government through the Ministry of Education from pre-school to senior high school. A free basic education of twelve years is guaranteed by the constitution, and a minimum of nine years' school attendance is mandatory. Formal education consists of at least twelve years of basic education, and higher education. Basic education is divided into six years of primary education and six years of secondary education, the latter being further divided into three years of lower- and upper-secondary levels. Kindergarten levels of pre-primary education, also part of the basic education level, span 2–3 years depending on the locale, and are variably provided. Non-formal education is also supported by the state. Independent schools contribute significantly to the general education infrastructure.

Administration and control of public and private universities are carried out by the Ministry of University Affairs.

The school structure is divided into four key stages: the first three years in elementary school, Prathom 1 - 3, are for age groups 6 to 8, the second level, Prathom 4 through 6 are for age groups 9 to 11, the third level, Matthayom 1 - 3, is for age groups 12 to 14. The upper secondary level of schooling consists of Matthayom 4 - 6, for age groups 15 to 17 and is divided into academic and vocational streams. There are also academic upper secondary schools, vocational upper secondary schools and comprehensive schools offering both academic and vocational tracks. Students who choose the academic stream usually intend to enter a university. Vocational schools offer programs that prepare students for employment or further studies.

Thailand is called the “Land of Smiles” for good reasons – hospitality, tolerance, friendliness and politeness. Thais also make a Thai traditional greeting or a “wai” to show respects and care to each other, along with a smile, and all you need to do is just smile back to them. But don’t get it wrong about a “wai”, this is normally for the younger or children to the elderly or hotel and restaurant staffs to guests. Moreover, there are only some time when you do “wai” – when you meet (like you visit your parents at their house), when you receive things from the elderly, when it’s time to say goodbye and leave.

Thai's consider the head to be the most important part of the body, both literally and figuratively. As a result they don't approve of touching anyone on the head, even as a friendly gesture. It is a great insult to point your foot at another person, so try to avoid doing so when sitting opposite someone, and following the concept that the foot is the most base part of the body don't sit with your feet facing a Buddha image, a priest or a person older than you.

Buddhist monks are not allowed to touch or be touched by a woman, or to accept anything from a female's hand. If a woman wants to give anything to a monk or novice, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it. In case the woman wants to present it with her hand, the monk or novice will spread out a piece of saffron robe, and the woman will lay down the gift on the material.

Thais have a great reverence and affection for the Royal Family, and the visitor should also show respect for the King and the Queen, and the Royal Children. When attending a public event where a member of the Royal Family is present, the best guide on how to behave is to watch the crowd and do as it does.

Dress appropriately when walking around the grounds of a Buddhist temple and inside the chapel where the Buddha image is kept. Women should ensure that their legs and shoulders are covered before entering a Buddhist temple. Please do not wear shorts