PDA - Public Displays of Affection in Thai Culture

In Western countries, public displays of affection or PDA are very common. It's considered normal behavior. People can hold hands and kiss in public. However, Thai culture is very conservative. In Thailand, public displays of sexual affection are unacceptable, especially in some areas. Anything more than a hand hold or linked arm is just a poor show.

Thai people extremely care what others think. In order to treat properly and politely, a man should not touch a woman. No Thai women feel comfortable with the public displays of affection. Kissing in public is seen as shameful and inconsiderate.

To avoid judgments at all costs, Thai woman expect a Western man to walk a few feet away in public. It doesn't mean she has lost her interest but this is very important for her not to be seen as a bar girl.

Here is an opinion about the PDA from a Thai woman as an outsider:

"I think the Thai's general view is that these activities are reserved for the bedroom; not the skytrain or shopping mall. I agree with this thinking as well. When I see a foreigner on the skytrain with his Thai girl and he has his hands all over her ass and he's pecking at her ears and lips, I mentally label her a whore. I'm sorry, but that's what has been culturally ingrained in my head.

"When I see a young Thai couple doing this, I think...hmm, they are the newer generation of 'Siam Square trendsters' who have disregarded their social mores and don't feel shy anymore."

Note: In Bangkok, you may see some couples holding hands as Thailand has started to become more westernized. Interestingly, it's very normal to see two women holding hands and showing affection to each other as they are friends.

Thai Massage

Traditional Thai massage originated over 2,500 years ago (since the time of Buddha). It is a form of healing and physical treatments. Thai massage techniques are different from the Western's. Thai massage focuses on applying pressure on specific tendons, nerves and ligaments, as well as stretching and manipulating skeletons in order to balance the body. The theory of Thai massage basically lies in the theory of energy lines that run through the body. Working on these energy lines can help remove blockages and balance the body's energy system.

Not just only hands are used in Thai massage but also parts of the therapist's body such as elbows, forearms, feet and knees. The work is done on a mat on the floor and with fully clothed on. No oils are required. The traditional Thai massage can help relieve muscular and joint tension, release toxic from joints and muscles, increase the body's ability in absorbing nutrition, improve blood circulation, stimulate internal organs and adjust the skeletal structure. It also helps the body on movements, flexibility, relaxing and energizing.

Note: Thai massage is believed that it can help relieve pains, headaches, arthritis, numbness and paralysis.

Tips: If you go to Thailand, you can find Thai massage at every street corner, at hospitals, in hotels and even on the beaches.

"If you've never experienced it before, please try once.

You will be amazed by its effectiveness on both your mind and body.

I guarantee. I did it many times and I LOVE IT!"