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\u2019s and don\u2019ts 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 leav<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\u2026but do it, out of respect, in private. Thus, it will be even more romantic!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another thing you shouldn\u2019t do when traveling in Thailand is touching other people\u2019s heads. You may be used to touching someone\u2019s 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\u2019s head unless you are in close confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\u2019t know is that you will be paying for the drinks for the girls performing. That\u2019s why a hefty bill will be waiting for you before leaving the club<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This \u201crule\u201d 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\u2026 and before returning to their respective countries, some of these tourists visited their homeland prisons and paid high wetsuits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
wai is the thai greeting \u2013 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 \u201cwai\u201d. All you need to do is bring your palms together in front of your body and tilt your head slightly, so you\u2019ve just made a wai.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\u2026especially if you are sitting or lying down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\u2019s not worth it, maybe say goodbye and walk out of the store for better deals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Always remember never to point at someone with your index finger or, even worse, your foot. It doesn\u2019t matter who or what you\u2019re 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\u2019t do with your feet. For example, you are not allowed to hold a door open with your feet, step on Thai money etc.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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