Things to Know, What not to do in Thailand!

What not to do in Thailand? The 12 things NOT to do in the land of smiles!

The best way to visit Thailand (and all of Southeast Asia), is to be an invisible tourist, i.e. one who is able to blend in best with the locals when travelling.

These Thailand do’s and don’ts also provide a great insight into Thai values and culture. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, these travel tips will help you have a more enjoyable experience and know what to expect before you leave.

1) Avoid any physical contact with Buddhist monks

In Thailand, monks are among the most respected and revered figures. As such, the best thing you can do when you see a monk is to keep your distance. Although the rule of not having any kind of physical contact with the monks is particularly suitable for women, also men should not, out of respect, come into physical contact with the monks (by physical contact we also mean a handshake!). Also, always remember not to put yourself in a position that appears to be taller than a monk. For example, you should not be standing when there is a monk sitting because you will be in a higher position than his posture.

2) Romantic gestures in public

Thailand is an Asian country and just like many in other Asian countries, people rarely show romantic gestures in public. So, respect oriental culture and behave accordingly when in public places. Do your best, essentially, to avoid kissing your partner on the street. In Thailand, even a simple romantic gesture like holding hands is rarely seen. Of course, even while travelling, you will have plenty of time to show your love to your partner…but do it, out of respect, in private. Thus, it will be even more romantic!

3) Dress NOT appropriately when visiting temples

You will find numerous temples when you are in Thailand and like any good traveler, you will certainly want to visit most of them. However, remember to keep in mind that it is not allowed to visit places of worship if you wear revealing or provocative clothes. This is considered very offensive. Therefore, you cannot wear shorts, low cut tops, miniskirts, and tank tops. Much better, it would be better to wear trousers and a top that covers the arms and shoulders.

4) DO NOT touch people’s heads

Another thing you shouldn’t do when traveling in Thailand is touching other people’s heads. You may be used to touching someone’s head in your home country to show affection or to say hello, but here in Thailand this gesture is considered rude. For Thais, the head is the holiest part of the body. Therefore, you should be careful not to touch someone’s head unless you are in close confidence.

5) DO NOT go (even out of curiosity) to a Ping Pong show

In Thailand, table tennis shows are notorious for being shady and infamous places. Many Thais know well what it is, that is, a scam where the black market of prostitution is hidden. Often, one way or another, you will be forced to spend a lot of money before you can leave the club. How does the scam work? You are free to enter the club and the drinks you buy are not that expensive. However, what you don’t know is that you will be paying for the drinks for the girls performing. That’s why a hefty bill will be waiting for you before leaving the club.

6) DO NOT disrespect the royal family

This “rule” is extremely important! Never ever do or say anything negative or offensive towards the King and his family. Whatever you do, always be respectful when it comes to the royal family. In the past, there have been many cases in which foreigners showed offensive behavior or attitudes towards the King… and before returning to their respective countries, some of these tourists visited their homeland prisons and paid high wetsuits.

7) The handshake

wai is the thai greeting – handshake
It is interesting to know that it is not common in Thailand to shake hands in greeting. Instead of shaking hands, you can say the traditional Thai greeting called “wai”. All you need to do is bring your palms together in front of your body and tilt your head slightly, so you’ve just made a wai.

8) DO NOT show interest in the Buddha

Most Thais practice Buddhism and respect the Buddha very much. By showing respect to the Buddha, you show respect for Thai culture and religion and this is what everyone who they travel to Thailand. So when taking pictures of Buddha statues, avoid standing or mimicking their pose. Also, never point your feet at the Buddha…especially if you are sitting or lying down.

9) DO NOT bargain excessively when shopping

Thais will get offended and angry if you bargain too little while shopping. Before you start haggling, you should already know how much you want to pay for the item you want to buy. Then, you can start negotiating but not at a price that is too low compared to the one offered (50% maximum). If you think it’s not worth it, maybe say goodbye and walk out of the store for better deals.

10) Pointing with index finger or feet

Always remember never to point at someone with your index finger or, even worse, your foot. It doesn’t matter who or what you’re pointing at. Just like stroking someone on the head is not polite, pointing with your forefinger or foot is really unacceptable. The head is the holiest part of the body, while the feet are the dirtiest part, at least for Thais. Also, there are many things you shouldn’t do with your feet. For example, you are not allowed to hold a door open with your feet, step on Thai money etc.

11) DO NOT go elephant trekking

In Thai culture, respecting animals is a great practice that manifests itself that mirrors Buddhism and people’s beliefs. Thailand’s national animal, the elephant, is depicted throughout the country as a mascot, often objectifying it, with the associated dire consequences for its health. The Chiang Mai Elephant Nature Park in northern Thailand rehabilitates and cares for those elephants that have been exploited by tourism and logging industries. Thailand’s tourism industry often puts these creatures in grave danger, using them as props in circus tricks to woo tourists. Therefore, the need to avoid riding elephants merely for photographic opportunities is ever-present, while it would be far more ethical, and even more fascinating, to take part in the conservation and care of these animals by visiting rehabilitation centers such as the Elephant Nature Park.

12) Pay attention to the duration of the visa

Tourists and travelers who fly to Thailand for holidays are sometimes unaware that the visa extension procedure is not lax compared to other neighboring countries and is absolutely mandatory to continue visiting the country. Starting two hours after the visa expires, you will have to pay a fine of USD 16 up to a maximum of USD 627. Those who have extended their stay beyond 90 days will have a temporary ban on re-entry for at least one year. So, before your trip to Thailand make sure you have valid documentation and in compliance with