Like all countries, Thailand has its rituals and customs. These give rise to rules of good conduct that the responsible traveler should know before embarking on a journey to the land of smiles. Are you planning to visit Thailand? We bring you the list of things to do and avoid for a smooth trip…

1. Never criticize the royal family

This is the first thing to know! Indeed, if you criticize the monarchy, you will make Thai people 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 Thai people, Buddhism is omnipresent in the country. Every respectful traveler must take note of the religious customs that depend on it, namely: dressing appropriately in temples and sacred places (shoulders and knees covered), removing your shoes before entering, not touching offerings, not speaking loudly, and positioning your feet toward the back. Finally, if you are a woman, know that it is forbidden to have physical contact with a monk, both in temples and on the street!

3. Do not touch someone's head

For Thai people, the head is the most noble part of the body. In this sense, it is forbidden to touch a Thai person's head (child or adult). Similarly, you must not touch or carry a Buddha statue by the head—this is a very serious offense!

4. Remove your shoes!

Contrary to the head, the feet are considered the most impure part of the body. This is why you must always remove your shoes when entering a temple. But this rule also applies when you enter local homes or certain shops and restaurants. By removing your shoes at the door, you leave impurities where they belong: outside.

5. Forget toplessness and be discreet

It's a fact: Thai people are extremely modest. Even though there are no clothing constraints outside temples, avoid overly provocative outfits. Similarly, avoid going topless or any form of nudism when you're on the beach. If you take time to observe locals, you'll see it's rare to see them swimming in swimwear! For the same reasons, avoid too much affection in public if you're a couple. In short, be discreet at the beach and in the city!

6. Do not throw toilet paper

In Thailand and Asia in general, the plumbing systems are not the most sophisticated. To avoid clogging the toilets and letting paper end up in the wild, you should get in the habit of throwing it in the trash bin rather than in the toilet.

7. Watch out for tuk-tuk scams

While not systematic, tuk-tuk scams do exist, particularly in large cities. Some drivers will offer to take you to gemstone shops. Politely say no and find another driver. Because once you're aboard, you'll be forced to buy and will have trouble getting out of this situation. So always remember to negotiate the price of your ride before you leave, specifying the total price beforehand. You'll avoid unpleasant surprises with a driver who tells you the initially quoted price was per person and not for the group (if there are several of you).

8. Be mindful of visa expiration dates

Thailand is strict about this! If you overstay your visa, the immigration police will ask you to pay 500 baht for each additional day. And if you're unable to pay, you risk serious trouble such as being banned from returning to Thailand or worse, imprisonment!

9. Do not ride a scooter without a helmet or insurance

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

10. Never raise your voice and keep smiling!

In Thailand, it is customary to stay calm in any situation. Getting upset in public is particularly frowned upon (especially if you're a passing tourist)! So even if you have good reasons to get angry, keep your cool and composure. You'll avoid finding yourself in a tricky situation. And since you're in the land of smiles, you know what you have to do…