Thai eating habits
 

Ok, maybe my last post on this subject wasn't a breach of thai etiquitte.
How about this one.
At dinner, my wife always serves me first and I end up eating alone at the table.
Wife, kids, and mother in-law spread out a mat on the floor and eat after I'm done.
I really would like to eat with my family but, I don't make a big deal out of it so as to not cause any problems.


Is this a social custom? Do the men eat first and the women after ? Am I making a big deal out of nothing ?
Does my wife do this because she knows farangs have a difficult time sitting on the floor in a correct manner for long periods of time ?

Well, I have never had the privlage of sitting on the table, our table holds the rice cooker, the fryer, the toaster and the children's school papers that need looked over. But yes you are correct. The men in most Thai households are served first, as with most social gatherings. Do some streches prior to sitting Mike, and you'll be fine. I do not suggest it if you have back problems that are serious though.

As for the custom being a pet peeve, well when she serves you just tell her you would like to eat with them, then go to the mat on the floor. I wouldn't think of asking them to come to the table, many consider it a trait given to lazy people. To some to the table is a social place, where as being on the floor displays a lack of lack of pride (in a good way).

noo..we eat together all the time. but father will be served first. why don't you ask your wife for everyone to join and eat together?