What are the best (culturally appropriate) gifts to give while in Thailand (we are from the US)?

We're travelling in a group and will be in both professional settings and homestays for a month in Southern Thailand. We'd like ideas that would convey something about American culture, but reallly just need to know what people would like to recieve, what's appropriate for someone hosting you in their home, etc. We have little trinkets (keychains, business card holders with American flag logos, etc.), and other ideas like US art/photo cofeetable books... any other ideas?

To thank the hosts for their hospitality, a gift basket is appropriate. You can find them in a department store or supermarket in the mall. You can even specialize them by picking what you want in them. Check the price and variety of options with the receptionist or store manager. If the host drinks (alcohol), imported liquor would be a great gift. Though some thais don't drink but they do collect imported liquor. Imported candies and chocolates are also a nice token of appreciation. Also, you could always include the little trinkets from the US with the gift basket. Hope this help.

Professional: Hugh flower Basket (rich Thais estimate you by volume),good Whisky,Cognac or expensive chocolate etc.

Otherwise maybe a T-Shirt fm the US,sorry but Booze is always more than welcomed or something special for the kids!

how about a globe. not a real one though, maybe where the US is huge and theres nothing else? either that or money

I am going there too! I'm bringing Lindt Chocolate Truffle, the assorted kind. I bought 10 bags for families I'm visiting and if there are some left, I can give some to all the children.

The coffe table book idea is excellent. Lots of colored pictures, less text. Nature scenes are good. I gave a Thai friend a beautiful book about the seasons in North Carolina. They loved it, I think. Booze is iffy. I don't think I would give alcohol. Currently Thailand is on an anti drinking kick so unless you know the folks you are going to stay with drink, I would avoid alcohol. All the little stuff you mentions is excellent, too.

Thais will appreciateany simple gift gesture that you intended. They will welcome simple things like you are planning to bring. However, something that they can use in their everyday life, like food, drinks, fruits, etc will be better. You can easily buy something at a local market when you arrive to give to the families that you are staying with.