Thai Greetings for Travelers
Thailand, often called the Land of Smiles, is famous not only for its breathtaking landscapes and delicious street food but also for its warm and respectful culture. As a traveler, making a good first impression can go a long way — and it starts with a simple greeting. Whether you’re meeting locals in a bustling Bangkok market or visiting a peaceful village in the north, knowing how to say hello the Thai way shows respect and openness. In this quick guide, we’ll cover the 5 basic things every traveler should know about Thai greetings — so you can connect more meaningfully, travel more respectfully, and experience the real heart of Thailand.
Here are 5 basic Thai phrases for travelers, presented in a more casual and easygoing style, along with a friendly Thai greeting.
1. Hello / Goodbye – สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dee)
This is your go-to word for saying hi and bye. It’s friendly and works in almost any situation.
Pronunciation: sa-wat-dee
Usage:
- When you meet someone: “สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ (sà-wàt-dee kráp/kâ)”
- kráp is for guys, and kâ is for gals.
- When leaving: “สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ (sà-wàt-dee kráp/kâ)”
2. Thank You – ขอบคุณ (khàawp-khun)
A simple thank you can go a long way. Thai people appreciate the effort!
Pronunciation: kop-koon
Usage:
- After someone helps you out: “ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ (khàawp-khun kráp/kâ)”
3. Yes / No – ใช่ (châi) / ไม่ใช่ (mâi châi)
Knowing how to say yes and no is super handy.
Pronunciation:
- Yes: chai
- No: mai-chai
Usage: - Agreeing: “ใช่ครับ/ค่ะ (châi kráp/kâ)”
- Disagreeing: “ไม่ใช่ครับ/ค่ะ (mâi châi kráp/kâ)”
4. Excuse Me / Sorry – ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot)
Use this to apologize or to get someone’s attention politely.
Pronunciation: kaw-toht
Usage:
- When you bump into someone: “ขอโทษครับ/ค่ะ (khǎaw-thôot kráp/kâ)”
- When you need to get past someone: “ขอโทษครับ/ค่ะ (khǎaw-thôot kráp/kâ)”
5. How Much? – เท่าไหร่ (thâo-rài)
Perfect for shopping adventures. Ask this to find out the price.
Pronunciation: tao-rai
Usage:
- Checking the cost: “อันนี้เท่าไหร่ (an-níi thâo-rài)”
Thai Greeting Etiquette – The Wai (ไหว้)
Besides saying hello, you might notice people doing a cool little bow with their hands together. This is called the wai.
Usage:
- Greeting someone: Put your hands together like a prayer and give a slight bow. Say “สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ (sà-wàt-dee kráp/kâ).”
- More respect for elders or monks: Raise your hands higher, to your face level, and bow a bit deeper.
By picking up these basic phrases and the wai, you’ll blend in better and show some local flair. Enjoy your travels in Thailand!