Why Thais Think Farangs Are Weird
In Thailand, the term “farang” is commonly used to refer to foreigners, mainly those of Western descent. If you’re a “farang” in Thailand, it’s likely that you’ve already felt a certain curious look from the Thai people. For many, the farangs are perceived as different, and sometimes even a little “weird”. But why does this perception exist? This article explores the cultural, social, and behavioral reasons why Thais may find foreigners a bit strange.
1. The difference in culture and behaviour
Thais have a very different culture from Western countries, and some differences in behavior can arouse curiosity or even misunderstanding.
Public displays of affection
In Thailand, public displays of affection are often perceived as inappropriate. Holding hands in public or kissing is considered private behavior. As a result, foreign couples who appear in public can be perceived as “weird” or too “exhibitive” of their feelings.
Mannerisms and gestures
Thais attach great importance to politeness and respect for social hierarchies. Gestures like the traditional “wai” salute (a gesture of clasping hands and bowing the head slightly) are common, but farangs can sometimes ignore these customs, which can be frowned upon. Lack of understanding of local customs can lead Thais to think that foreigners are rude or disrespectful.
2. Differences in food and table
Thai food is very different from that of Western countries, and farangs are often perceived as strange in their eating habits.
The Thai table
Thais often eat together at the same table, sharing several dishes. Mealtime is a social moment, and the way farangs approach their meal, sometimes eating alone or asking for individual portions, can seem strange to Thais. In addition, the use of chopsticks, although common in parts of Asia, is rarely used in Thailand. Many Thais find it “weird” to see foreigners eating with chopsticks, as the traditional cutlery in Thailand is fork and spoon.
The way to eat
Thais often eat spicy dishes, a feature that can confuse foreigners. Farangs, who are not used to the heat of Thai spices, can be seen struggling with overly spicy dishes, which can cause some amusement or astonishment among Thais.
3. Respect for religious traditions
Religion plays a major role in the daily lives of Thai people, and respect for Buddhist traditions is fundamental in their society.
Buddha statues and respect for the religious
Farangs can sometimes lack understanding regarding the respect due to Buddha statues. For example, some foreigners may take photos near sacred statues or behave in a disrespectful manner towards the Buddha image, which can be perceived as extremely disrespectful in Thailand. In addition, farangs may also not understand certain social rules regarding temples or how to behave when in the presence of Buddhist monks.
4. Attitude towards money and transactions
Thais have a different way of perceiving money and transactions, which may seem strange to farangs.
Price negotiation
Negotiation is an integral part of Thai culture, but it can surprise foreigners. Many farangs are not used to discussing prices in markets or shops, whereas in Thailand it is part of the game. Foreigners can be seen as too rigid or not flexible enough when they do not participate in this cultural process.
The use of cash
In Thailand, the use of cash is still widespread, and farangs who mainly use credit cards may seem disconnected from local customs. In addition, some foreigners may have a different attitude towards money, perhaps more “extroverted” or less discreet than Thais, who prefer to avoid openly displaying their wealth.
5. Lifestyle and social values
Farangs may also seem strange to Thais because of their priorities and lifestyle.
Privacy and family
Family is a central pillar in Thai society, and family relationships are often perceived as closer and more interconnected than in many Western societies. Farangs, who may have a more individualistic and extended family-centric approach, are sometimes seen as aloof or even selfish.
Work and schedules
Thais generally have a more relaxed attitude towards work and the time at which a working day starts or ends. On the other hand, farangs may be in a hurry, with higher productivity expectations and stricter schedules, which can be perceived as a lack of flexibility or adaptability.
6. Different expectations in terms of relationships
Differences in romantic relationships and expectations of partners can also be a source of misunderstanding.
Mixed couples
In Thailand, foreign couples can be perceived as “weird,” especially when there are notable differences in age or social status between the partners. The fact that a farang is married to a much younger Thai woman or that farangs have relationships with multiple partners may seem strange to Thai society, which values family stability.
Conclusion
Thais sometimes find farangs “weird” due to the deep cultural differences that exist between Thai and Western societies. Behaviours, eating habits, respect for religious traditions, attitudes towards money and social values all contribute to this perception.
That said, Thai people’s curiosity about farangs is also a sign of their hospitality and willingness to understand foreign cultures. If you are a farang in Thailand, it is important to respect local customs, be patient, and be sensitive to cultural differences to better integrate and avoid misunderstandings.
