Chiang Mai people are soft, gentle, and friendly. They do not like stress or fighting. If you are angry, people avoid you. Locals don’t like arguing. They don’t want to embarrass anyone. Life in Chiang Mai is slower. Age = respect in Thailand. Be extra polite with older locals.
Many times “yes” means: “I hear you” “I want to be polite” “I don’t want to say no”. Don’t overthink the smile. Look at the situation.
Don’t touch anyone’s head
Don’t point your feet at people or Buddha statues
Take off shoes before entering homes, temples, some shops
Avoid: loud talking, angry tone, strong swearing showing too much affection in public
Chiang Mai likes peaceful behavior. Direct Western speech sounds “too sharp” here. Say things softly, slowly, with a smile.
Even small effort earns deep respect.
Emotional stability is seen as maturity.
It communicates peace.
Lanna culture likes modesty.
Thai people trust foreigners who stay — not those with "gap year" mindset.
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