Polite Phuket

After our 4-day jaunt on Thailand's paradise island, I came back with two orchids in my hair, a stomach full of Tom Yam Kung, and a neck cramp. Along with beautiful flowers and great food the Thai also boast the habitual "neck-bow" as a sign of sincere politeness and respect, especially upon a first encounter. And being that we were tourists in a high-end resort, the neck-bow was a constant part of our day.

Upon arrival, our hotel attendant greeted us by deliberately placing her hand together in prayer position, neck-bowing a number of times, then kneeling on the floor beside us when we looked like we were ready for business. This was not before receiving flowers from a bell boy (who bowed a couple times while discretely avoiding eye contact), being served tropical drinks by a waitress (who also neck-bowed when she approached and left), and having our bags taken to our room by another bell boy (yep, bowing the whole time). If we made eye contact with anyone as we walked down the hall, the obligatory bow would most certainly follow. Our maid would bow as she walked backward out of our room. Restaurateurs and cab drivers would neck-bow good-bye whether we accepted or rejected their offer.

When I asked our hotel cashier to break a large bill, he closed his eyes, pressed palms and fingers together, and bowed a couple of times. Shouldn't I have been the one bowing in thanks?? I even received about 10 neck-bows from a pharmacy counter attendant upon approach and departure. And really, did she have much reason to show us that much politeness? After all, we were a bit tipsy by that point and purchased 33-cent beers. Not exactly the lucrative customer.

Maybe it's because Phuket residents live in paradise that politeness can be so easy and frequent. Or maybe it's because the island economy depends on keeping high-end tourists happy for its survival. In any case, for those coming as tourists to Phuket, be prepared: it can be a real pain in the neck!