I would disagree completely Goodbrad , and would suggest you are...

I would disagree completely Goodbrad , and would suggest you are looking from a very Western viewpoint .

I find Thais extremely capable and suggest that they are far more likely to " Think outside the square " because they have to adapt to many challenges .

TEMPLES ..I have been to many , as Im guessing quite a few here would have also , I have never known one where you DONT remove your shoes ( at the very least ) ..
And you certainly dont walk around in swimwear etc , I have seen Western women removing the garments you are given to wear ( thinking of one particular group of Temples by the river in Bangkok ) to have photo's taken . This action shows an incredible lack of respect and is certainly frowned upon ..Sometimes the ignorance is beyond amazing , just incredibly offensive .