Traveling to Thailand: Do's and Don'ts

Like all countries, Thailand has its own rituals and customs. These are the rules of conduct that a responsible traveler must know before embarking on their journey to the Land of Smiles. Planning a visit to Thailand? Here's the list of things to do or not to do for a smooth trip:.

1. Never criticize the royal family

This is the first thing to know! Indeed, criticizing the royalty will make Thais uncomfortable, and moreover, you risk trouble if they report you. For your information, a simple Facebook post against the royal family is punishable and can lead you straight to prison!

2. Respect Buddhist rituals

Practiced by the majority of Thais, Buddhism is omnipresent in the country. Every respectful traveler should take note of the religious customs associated with it, namely: dressing appropriately in temples and sacred places (covering shoulders and knees), removing shoes before entering, not touching offerings, speaking softly, and positioning feet backwards. Finally, if you're a woman, know that it's forbidden to have physical contact with a monk, whether in temples or on the street!

3. Don't touch someone's head

For Thais, the head is the noblest part of the body. Therefore, it's forbidden to touch a Thai's head (child or adult). Similarly, you should not touch or carry a Buddha statue by the head; it's a very serious offense!

4. Remove your shoes!

Contrary to the head, the feet are considered the most impure part of the body. That's why you should always remove your shoes when entering a temple. But this rule also applies when entering locals' homes or certain shops and restaurants. By taking off your shoes at the door, you leave impurities where they should be: outside.

5. Forget about topless and be discreet

It's a fact that Thais are extremely modest. Even though there are no clothing constraints outside of temples, avoid overly provocative attire. Similarly, avoid toplessness or any form of nudity when on the beach. If you take the time to observe the locals, you'll see that it's rare to see them bathing in swimsuits! For the same reasons, don't show too much affection in public if you're a couple. In short, be discreet on the beach as well as in the city!

6. Don't throw toilet paper

In Thailand and in Asia in general, the plumbing isn't the most sophisticated. To avoid clogging the toilets and letting the paper go into nature, you must get into the habit of throwing it in the trash can and not in the bowl.

7. Beware of tuk-tuk scams

Although not systematic, tuk-tuk scams exist, especially in big cities. Some drivers will offer to take you to gemstone shops. Politely decline and find another driver. Once on board, you'll be pressured to buy, and you'll have a hard time getting out of the situation. So always remember to negotiate the price of your ride before leaving, specifying the total price beforehand. This way, you'll avoid unpleasant surprises with a driver who tells you that the initially announced price was per person and not collective (if you're several).

8. Pay attention to visa dates

Thailand doesn't joke about this! If you exceed your visa date, immigration police will ask you to pay 500 baht for each additional day. And if you can't pay, you risk serious trouble such as being banned from returning to Thailand or worse, imprisonment!

9. Don't ride a scooter without a helmet or insurance

As the famous saying goes, it's better to be safe than sorry! So, if you plan to rent a scooter during your trip to Thailand, you must be prepared. Don't leave without insurance and think about the consequences. An accident can happen quickly, so it's imperative to wear a helmet. Many have been stranded in the country unable to be repatriated to their home countries due to lack of vigilance. So even if it's tempting to feel the wind in your hair, remember that you can never be too careful!

10. Never raise your voice and keep smiling!

In Thailand, it's customary to remain calm in any situation. Getting angry in public is particularly frowned upon (especially if you're a passing tourist)! So even if you have reasons to get angry, keep your calm and composure. You'll avoid getting into a difficult situation. And since you're in the Land of Smiles, you know what to do…

Florine Dergelet