Thais are inherently respectful. So when you come across something which, in the West, would be unacceptable, keep in mind that usually the problem is just a bad translation. Such is the case with this sign at the train station in Hua Hin.

Many of the differences between the East and the West are in no small part due to the differences in religion. Ritual cleansing is common in many different cultures and religions. Though in the West we would never wash another person’s feet, even a priests, being baptized is a familiar site. In predominantly Buddhist Thailand, washing a monk’s feet is an act of purification before they enter your house to perform a blessing and also is a form of merit making for the individual.
Photo courtesy of Khun Apinand

Just like a traffic light, if this air pollution board is green then feel free to inhale. Yellow lights might be followed by dizziness or shortness of breathe. If you see red… well, its too late for you. But your sacrifice will help others live. Have a nice day!

Photo taken by Dr. Penny Miller