Since, I already introduced to you the sawdee ka/krap, I figured I should introduce to you the actions needed when saying those things. One thing that you will learn quickly about Thailand is that they are respectful to their elders and they show it. Whether saying the ka/krap part or the actual wai itself. Saying sawadee ka/krap without the wai is like taking a shower without using soap. It goes hand in hand with each other. As a foreigner, you are not expected to do the whole wai thing. But I would suggest you to go for it. Wai does not cost money and you gain many brownie points from you Thai co-workers, which will make your work life in Thailand MUCH MUCH EASIER!
There are many types of wai. Here are the only ones that you should know and be able to recognized. This wai form is used for saying hi/thank you/good bye to friends or just causally. Notice, no one is bowing. They just clasp their hand together and put it against their nose like this....
The one we are going to talk about next is super formal. Its the wai that are used with adults, elders or people you respect. THIS ONE, there's a bow down action going on. Noticed, you will never ever have to do this to anyone if you are a foreigner. However, if you become a teacher in any Thai school, your students will likely do this form to you every time they see you.
