Respecting laws and customs in Thailand

Thai customs and laws can sometimes be quite different from those in France. Disregarding what may seem like minor and insignificant rules can be shocking or disturbing in another culture.

Certain laws must be respected, and being a foreign tourist does not grant any form of immunity.

To ensure your stay in Thailand goes smoothly, here are some rules you should not break.

Always carry your passport

In Thailand, the law requires all foreigners to always carry their passport or identification papers. If you're uncomfortable carrying your passport, a simple photocopy will suffice.

Driving license requirement for motor vehicles

According to Thai law, when driving a motor vehicle in Thailand, you must have your driver's license and an international driving permit. Your international driving permit won't allow you to drive two-wheelers if boxes A and A1 are not stamped. However, this doesn't prevent you from renting a scooter or motorcycle, as rental agencies typically don't require licenses. However, police checkpoints are common, and if your papers aren't in order, you'll receive a fine. Although motorcycle insurance is mandatory in Thailand, it does not cover "third-party liability" as it is only third-party insurance, not individual insurance.

Importation of tobacco and alcohol

Importation laws regarding tobacco and alcohol are becoming increasingly stringent in Thailand, starting at Bangkok airport upon arrival. Importation rights are limited to only 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes per person. Fines for violating these restrictions can be severe, reaching up to €2000 for a single carton of cigarettes.

It's well known that possession of narcotics in Thailand is severely punished, potentially resulting in deportation or imprisonment.

Alcohol regulations under the 2005 Amendment

You should also be aware of the 2005 amendment regarding alcohol:

• The sale and consumption of alcohol (including beer), even at restaurants, are restricted to certain hours.
• Bars and clubs prohibit entry to minors, even accompanied.
• The sale of alcohol and tobacco is only for adults.
• Smoking in public areas is prohibited.

Exportation of art and religious objects

Exporting art and religious objects from Thailand is strictly monitored. Each art object, whether a genuine antique, a copy of an old item, or a modern piece, must be certified by the Fine Arts Department. The rules are even stricter for religious objects, especially incomplete old copies (such as statues without hands). Thai customs officers have discretion to allow passage or confiscate the object.

Furthermore, it's important to understand that a Buddha replica should not be treated merely as a decoration; a minimum level of respect is expected.

Customs and practices

Thai social norms are quite strict:

It's customary to hide one's feet when sitting, especially during prayers, as the feet are considered the least sacred part of the body.

• Shoes should always be removed when entering sacred places like temples.
• Touching someone's head, especially children's heads, is considered disrespectful as the head is the most sacred part of the body.
• Discussion of the king or politics is discouraged.
• Women should avoid touching a monk or offering something directly to them.
• Maintaining composure is essential; shouting or displaying annoyance is frowned upon.
• Banknotes should not be mishandled, as they bear the image of the king.
• Decent attire is expected in public places and temples, meaning no bikinis for grocery shopping, even by the seaside or on islands.