Heading to Thailand? Awesome! Before you start packing, here are 10 Thailand travel don’ts you should know.
From staying safe on motorbikes to skipping elephant rides and respecting the local dress code and culture, these tips will help make your trip stress-free and fun.
Whether you’re exploring temples, lounging on beaches, or checking out local markets, knowing what to avoid can really make your experience smoother.
Ready to find out what to skip in Thailand? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Don’t Dress Inappropriately
When you’re out and about in Thailand, it’s important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting cultural spots.
Thailand has deep traditions, with Buddhism being central to its culture, so dressing modestly shows respect for both the local customs and people.
When you visit temples, skip the sleeveless shirts or shorts. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered. It’s all about being respectful and avoiding any unintentional offense to the locals.
It’s easy to follow, and it’ll help you have a positive experience while exploring!
2. Don’t Ride Motorbikes
Riding motorbikes in Thailand might seem like an adventure, but it’s risky. First off, you need an international driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement.
Without it, you’ll lose health insurance coverage if you’re in an accident—and hospital bills can get crazy expensive.
Thailand’s roads can be dangerous, with many motorbike accidents happening daily. Plus, some rental shops hide extra fees, leaving you with unexpected costs.
The smart choice? Skip the motorbike and stick to safer, hassle-free transport options!
3. Don’t Take a Selfie with the Buddha
When you’re in Thailand, it’s important to respect Buddha’s image. Don’t turn your back on Buddha statues for photos, whether you’re inside a temple or outside.
This is all about showing respect for local customs. Some places allow photos with Buddha statues, but always check for any rules first.
Following these simple guidelines will help you avoid any awkward situations and make your experience in Thailand more respectful and meaningful.
4. Don’t Take Photos of People without Permission
When you’re in Thailand, always respect people’s privacy. Don’t take photos of locals without asking first, especially in religious sites or private areas.
It’s a good idea to always ask before snapping a picture—it shows respect for their customs and helps build positive connections. This rule goes for both adults and kids.
A friendly smile and a simple hello in Thai can go a long way in getting a yes for your photo. Keep this in mind to stay respectful and capture great shots that align with local norms.
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5. Don’t Criticize the Royal Family
When you’re traveling in Thailand, it’s important to understand the deep respect and legal protections around the royal family.
Avoid speaking negatively about them—it could get you into serious trouble, including imprisonment! Plus, public criticism might upset locals.
Stay respectful during your trip and steer clear of anything that could offend the king or the royal family. It’s a good way to ensure your time in Thailand goes smoothly.
6. Don’t Ride Elephants
Contrary to what many think, elephant riding isn’t a safe or ethical activity. It can seriously harm the elephant’s spine and lead to health problems.
What’s worse, some places use cruel methods like ‘breaking the spirit’—separating baby elephants from their mothers, keeping them in cages, and mistreating them.
For these reasons, elephant riding in Thailand is strongly discouraged. If you want to support elephants, choose ethical tours that focus on their well–being instead.
7. Don’t Touch Thai’s People Heads
When preparing for your Thailand travel, it’s important to understand the cultural significance of the head.
In Thai tradition, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body, seen as the center of life force and a place for blessings from monks.
Touching someone’s head, especially an elder’s, is a big no-no and seen as disrespectful. So, make sure to avoid patting or touching anyone’s head, including children.
By respecting this, you’ll not only avoid causing offense but also show your respect for local customs during your Thailand travel.
8. Don’t Drink Tap Water
While you’re in Thailand, be mindful of the tap water quality. Even though it’s treated in some areas, especially in big cities, it’s not always safe to drink.
To stay on the safe side, stick to bottled water for drinking and use tap water only for brushing your teeth. Also, be cautious with ice in your drinks.
Your health should always come first, so being careful about what you drink will help you enjoy your Thailand travel safely.
9. Don’t Forget to Take Off Your Shoes
In Thailand, just like in many other Asian countries, shoes and feet are considered impure, so people always take them off before entering homes, temples, shops, and restaurants.
As a visitor, it’s important to do the same, especially in religious places. It’s a simple way to show respect for local customs and sacred spaces.
It might feel a bit weird at first, but following this custom will help you avoid any awkward moments and make your Thailand travel experience smoother.
10. Don’t Show Strong Emotions in Public
In Thailand, showing too much emotion in public isn’t really the norm. Thais are known for their politeness and prefer a calm vibe.
Raising your voice or being too expressive can be seen as a ‘loss of face’. So, it’s important to keep it cool—avoid being loud or overly affectionate in public.
Respecting this cultural norm will help you fit in and make your Thailand travel more relaxed and enjoyable.
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Thailand Travel Don’ts: Summary
When planning your vacation in Thailand, it’s important to keep a few key things in mind to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Getting to know local customs and showing respect for traditions can make a big difference in your experience.
By following local norms, you’ll avoid conflicts and create positive connections, making your Thailand vacation truly unforgettable.
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