DATING ADVICE
A Western Man’s Guide to Dating Phuket Women
Pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, warm sunshine, and cool sea breeze — one can’t help but fall in love with Phuket.
And the longer you stay, the more you’ll discover more to love as you get the chance to meet attractive Phuket women.
You might be a backpacker seeking adventure or a bachelor enjoying a well-earned vacation.
No matter your story or where you come from, once you fall for a Phuket woman, it won’t be easy to escape her charms. However, there are challenges to navigating this budding romance — cultural ones.
So, here are some tips you should keep in mind.
#1: Take things slowly.
In some parts of the world, especially in the United States, people have a fast-paced lifestyle. They have no time for dilly-dallying because there seems to be a deadline for everything.
And it’s not just at school or work; this mindset also applies to dating.
Daters are already holding hands as early as their first date. And by the second, they’ve already kissed and are engaging in public displays of affection, as if they’re already committed to one another.
Phuket women aren’t used to a quick turn of events.
Dating in Thailand is like a slow-burn romance, as their society remains largely conservative and traditional.
“It’s a culture where showing gratification and emotion is controlled by strict social norms. This is why showing public affection between couples is considered rude here,” explains Rachawit Photiyarach, an intercultural communications professor at Kasetsart University in Bangkok (Tuohy 2022).
So, try to maintain a pace that your date finds comfortable. Let her learn and test your intentions before striving for more progress in your interactions.
Once she sees your sincerity, she’ll fully invest in the relationship, showing her faithfulness and affection for you.
#2: Make your move.
Western society values individualism, whereas Thai society is collectivist. As a result, people are more concerned about caring for others than themselves.
Phuket women often go out of their way to make you feel at home and enjoy your stay. They’ll treat you well but won’t assume or initiate anything beyond friendship.
If you’re interested in a Phuket woman, you should be the one to make the first move in romance. Ask her for a date by approaching her with confidence and respect.
#3 Don’t assume.
Thailand’s population is predominantly Buddhist (92.5%) (US Department of State, n.d.), as evident in the numerous temples and Buddha statues found in the country.
However, contrary to expectations, Phuket has a larger Muslim population (Phuket.Net).
Because of regional cultural differences, like religion, it’s better to get to know your date personally instead of forming an image of her based on general knowledge.
Respectfully ask her questions and share your thoughts. It may be helpful to conduct research beforehand, but be careful not to put your date in a box.
Merging of Two Cultures
Just because you have more cultural differences than similarities doesn’t mean you’re incompatible as romantic partners.
Be sensitive and accepting as you discover your date’s world. At the same time, be open to sharing about yours. It’s part of getting to know each other as you transition into a commitment.
You don’t have to agree with every belief or practice; respect says enough.
References:
Phuket.net. n.d. “Religion in Phuket.” Phuket.Net. Accessed May 23, 2024. https://www.phuket.net/visit-phuket/about/info/religion/.
Tuohy, Laurel. 2022. “Where people don’t like to say no.” BBC. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20170123-where-people-dont-like-to-say-no.
US Department of State. n.d. “2022 Report on International Religious Freedom: Thailand.” US Department of State. Accessed May 22, 2024. https://www.state.gov/reports/2022-report-on-international-religious-freedom/thailand/#:~:text=In%20December%202021%2C%20the%20Department,animist%20practices%20into%20their%20worship.
More from Miss Matchmaker
