Putting food into the bowl of a Buddhist monk is called 'saii bart' in Thai. Making merit - basically "do good" - is called "tam boon".
The Thai culture incorporates cultural beliefs and characteristics indigenous to the area known as modern day Thailand. It is coupled with much influence from ancient India, China and Cambodia, along with the neighboring pre-historic cultures of Southeast Asia. It is shaped strongly by Buddhism, which plays a central role in daily life, alongside elements of Animism and historical Hindu influences.
Respect, politeness, and social harmony are important aspects of Thai society. Open confrontation and public displays of anger are generally avoided. Understanding these cultural norms will help you integrate more smoothly into daily life and avoid misunderstandings.
Thailand is also known for its hospitality and friendliness toward foreigners. While cultural differences can sometimes create confusion, most expatriates find Thai society welcoming and relatively easy to adapt to over time.
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