When it comes to visiting a country, you must remember that you are a guest. And many things that seem "normal" to us might not be so elsewhere.
For example, in our culture we often greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, or failing that, a handshake, whereas here we greet each other with hands clasped together, a gesture known as the Wai. This highly codified gesture originates from the Indian Namaste.
Coming across an article (which no longer exists, but the sentences in quotation marks are the "originals, spelling mistakes included) which succinctly described a list of things not to do in Thailand, I wanted to provide some clarification by adding my experience because I find that there are some inaccuracies.
15 Things Not to Do When Coming to Thailand
1) Criticizing the royal family
"Do not criticize the King or the royal family. In Thailand this type of behavior is not just considered rude: it is a crime against the monarchy that can be punished by a prison sentence!"
That's true in practice, but in theory it takes more than just an empty statement which would not be sufficient evidence in court, so unless your conversation is recorded… the risk remains limited.
But with the rise of social media, everything is scrutinized, and using inappropriate language on Facebook can quickly get you into trouble. In any case, it seems wiser to refrain from criticizingThis would bring nothing to the country that is hosting you.
2) Using narcotics
"Don't do drugs. This is no joke. If you are caught in possession of drugs you will have the choice between paying a very large bribe to the police or ending up in prison for several years."
And here, I can only confirm, in France there's rather laxity in this area, but here, some foreigners have been languishing for quite some time now… So yes, Thailand has legalized cannabis… but it's for medical purposes, and while there are still shops to smoke it pretty much everywhere, the revised law requires a prescription for you to smoke there (in practice, I don't know if it's strictly enforced…)
In any case, please refrain from smoking joints in public; this is not a country for that (see the very bottom of the article).
3) Getting ripped off by tuk-tuks
“Never let a tuk-tuk or taxi driver take you to a gem shop. These kinds of schemes always end the same way: you are forced to buy at an inflated price.”
It's more of a waste of time What else, I've never really heard that they were going to "force" you to buy something, throw you out because you don't buy it, yes…
However, don't be fooled by drivers using the excuse of "Buddha Day," or something similar, to claim that the Grand Palace or Wat Pho are temporarily closed. Always check for yourself; there are indeed public holidays and ceremonies that necessitate closures (most often the Grand Palace, and usually only in the afternoon), but since these are rare, it's almost certainly false. 😉
I've even written a full article on scams to avoid in Thailand: see here
4) Exceeding the authorized length of stay (overstay)
“Do not overstay your visa. In Thailand you will be fined 500 THB per day overstayed and if you cannot pay, you will end up behind bars.”
This seems obvious… Knowing that the fine is valid especially if you present yourself to immigration, if you are stopped in the street or elsewhere and your visa has expired, the fine and the consequences are likely to be more serious.
Note that there is a ceiling of 20 baht for the overstay fine. They will be a little less picky if the overstay is found when leaving Thailand via an international airport, like a day might not be counted, on the other hand, even exceeded by a few hours, an overstay of one day will be counted if passing by land…
The rule prevails as follows:
If you present yourself to the immigration office with a:
- Overstaying less than 90 days results in a 1-year ban from entering Thailand.
- Overstaying less than 1 year results in a 3-year ban from entering Thailand.
- Overstaying less than 3 years = 5-year ban from entering Thailand
- Overstaying less than 5 years = 10-year ban from entering Thailand
If you are randomly checked while in an overstay situation, you will be arrested with the following consequences (at a minimum):
- Overstaying less than 1 year = 5-year ban from entering Thailand
- Overstaying more than 1 year = 10-year ban from entering Thailand
5) Point your feet towards Buddha
"Don't point your feet at a Thai person. This action is very rude and could get you into trouble: it's silly but that's the way it is."
It's important to know that the head is considered the noblest part of the body; this is why it's generally considered impure to touch children's heads. Conversely, the feet are considered the most impure part…
In practice, it's not often that we have the opportunity to point our foot at someone… On the other hand, it's the same reason why You should not stretch your legs towards a Buddha statue.But folding them up onto your knees or sitting cross-legged is something you should observe. In some temples, a guard will remind you to restrain yourself if you let your legs hang down towards the Buddha.
Afterwards, it's no more "idiotic" than when we say "we don't point at someone, it's impolite".
6) Driving without a helmet (and without a license)
"Don't drive without a helmet or a valid license, or worse, while drinking. In addition to the fine that hangs over your head, a traffic accident in Thailand usually ends dramatically: it must be said that Thais are crazy drivers and when they hit, they hit hard!"
It's the same thing in France! So there's no reason to do otherwise, and it seems obvious! Yet when I see these reckless young guys (I don't know what else to call them) driving any old way (especially on the southern islands), without helmets and even without the proper license, it exasperates me…
Even ordinary tourists, probably just trying to "imitate" the locals and "let loose" (because it's hot), also tend to ride without helmets, sometimes even with their families and children, 3 or 4 on the scooter…
Stop trying to be "like them," you certainly won't be better perceived/appreciated... And because you're not at home, even if they don't always respect their laws, it's certainly not up to you, as a guest, to flout them!
More generally, I would say that in terms of driving, there are worse than Thai driving in terms of "disorganization" (see India or Vietnam), but Thailand unfortunately has a very high number of road deaths worldwide (sometimes at the top of the list, with a ratio of more than 35 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, a sad record…) due to a fast and reckless driving style, particularly motorcycles, so be careful!
If you plan to rent a vehicle, I invite you to read my article on driving in thailand.
7) To be shameless
"Don't sunbathe topless! Such an initiative on your part would be very badly received by Thais (especially Thai women)."
It depends on where specifically, if you go to a small beach in the depths of Thailand, I'm thinking in particular of the far south where the Thais are predominantly Muslim, well there, yes, it could be frankly frowned upon, but on the tourist beaches of Phuket, Samui etc... I don't think it will be particularly "badly experienced".
Yes, it's a tropical country, it's hot, even very hot depending on the season, but even in the beach areas, that's no reason to walk around shirtless everywhere. A Thai person doesn't necessarily want to go shopping and see guys everywhere showing up in just shorts and flip-flops…
It should not be forgotten that it is still common in this country to swim fully clothed (even if it is not only modesty but also related to protection against the sun).
8) Do not take off your shoes
“Don’t wear your shoes inside. In Thailand, it is customary to remove your shoes inside temples and homes. Not doing so is impolite.”
Having already asked the question specifically, it's not exactly a rudeness, but just an obvious point for do not dirty inside the house… For temples, it’s different, there, it’s a custom that goes beyond not dirtying the temple…
And depending on the location, you may need to walk barefoot on tiled floors that can be scorching hot, so yes, wearing socks in Thailand is not a totally crazy idea!
Similarly, some guesthouses may ask their guests to remove their shoes at the entrance, before accessing your rooms, or even some restaurants, more rarely, but it happens.
9) Being overly affectionate
"Don't show affection in public. In Thailand, public displays of affection are frowned upon: Siamese twins are very modest."
This remains true if you plan on passionately kissing your partner. I've never seen a Thai couple making out in public, never.
After that, holding hands, putting your arm around each other's waists, or getting a little close isn't frowned upon and is actually quite common (even among close friends, where they tend to put their arms around each other's shoulders more readily than we would back home). It is, however, true that despite the fact that you might see girls in tight shorts (it's hot), well yes, Thais remain modest.
You only have to look at the "love" scenes in their cheesy soap opera on TV, ridiculous or even non-existent...
10) Having unprotected sex
“Don’t have unprotected sex. AIDS is very common in Thailand so be sensible for your own sake.”
Another obvious fact that remains true everywhere, AIDS still exists so protecting yourself when you don't know your partner well enough seems essential. After Thailand has done a big job of prevention and the situation is no longer the same as in the 90s when it was a disaster.
11) Losing one's temper
“Stay cool. In Thailand, people who are not able to control themselves are generally considered idiots. Never lose your cool and show firmness with a smile if necessary.”
It is true that it is not always easy to keep calm. Whether it is misunderstandings, a scam, or sometimes just the slowness of the Thais, there are several reasons that could exasperate you. But once again, you are here as a guest, respect their way of life, take it upon yourself and relax a little!
Otherwise, indeed (because you shouldn't always overdo it either) speak firmly, without necessarily raising your voice, and if possible, with a smile 😉 It's the Thai attitude, it's the same as the famous "face" that you shouldn't lose. Don't make a Thai lose face because there it could end badly...
And as they say here: Sabai sabai!
12) Accept a fixed-price (No Meter) plan
"Don't negotiate the fare with taxis. In Thailand, the law requires taxis to have a meter. The price will always be cheaper on the meter than negotiating on the fly."
ExactAlways ask for the "meter" otherwise close the door and take another one, there is no shortage of taxis… After some will sometimes refuse to take you outright, here too, a law has just been passed to force them to take every passenger.
You can normally take their license plate number and report them to the police if they refuse you… In practice, I think few people do (from a tourist point of view, the locals are starting to complain a lot).
The refusal to take you can be linked to several factors. Sometimes it's simply laziness, sometimes it's because they are at the end of the workday and the place they have to take you to is on the opposite side of the world from their home, or sometimes the amount of gas they have left will be insufficient (many still drive on gas, and there are not gas stations on every street corner).
The classic excuse is "there's a traffic jam over there"... Yes... the reasons aren't necessarily good, but in any case, it's difficult to stay stranded for long given the number of taxis per capita.
13) Leave your passport as a deposit
“Never leave your passport as a deposit. If someone asks you to leave your ID as a deposit, leave a photocopy.”
It is generally always recommended to carry photocopies of your passport, if only in case of loss or theft. However, a photocopy of your passport may not always be accepted as a security deposit, especially if the rental company is a small business.
First and foremost, it's important to know that this practice of withholding passports is illegal, as you are always supposed to have it with you (especially in case of a police check). To address this, negotiate a cash deposit, this can also be done and should not pose a problem, otherwise change stores, in general there is plenty to choose from.
14) Touching a monk
"If you are a woman, never touch a monk! It is strictly forbidden."
Yes, that's true too, but in practice, you're not necessarily aware of that, so the consequences will usually be minimal. On the other hand, if a monk starts touching you intentionally, ladies, be wary… because that is indeed abnormal. I'm being a bit cheeky, but let's just say that monks are normally expected to show restraint towards women.
This is why, when you have certain temples with monks present to give blessings and provide a bracelet on the wrist, the more "rigorous" ones will not put the bracelet directly on your wrist for you ladies, but will ask an assistant, not a monk, to tie it on you or do it yourself when they tie it on the wrist of men.
15) Throwing rubbish and cigarette butts on the ground
“Don’t throw your trash on the ground. A cigarette butt thrown on the ground can result in a fine of 2000 THB. Be very careful in Bangkok because the most corrupt police in Thailand are there and they like to watch for farangs and follow them until they commit an offence. Then they come after you.”
This makes sense.The same applies in France; the streets are not a garbage dump. And even if sometimes, especially in the evening, the streets tend to be littered with piles of rubbish near street food stalls (before being collected at night), that's no reason to have a minimum of respect.
To say that you are actually being followed to jump on the "disgusting farangs" is going too far... (and the most rotten police officers, to use the original author's words, are not unique to Bangkok).
Bonuses
16) Bring your electronic cigarette
This is where we enter the realm of the law (which I should write an entire article about), but given recent events, it's best to talk about it and issue a warning:
DO NOT TAKE ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE, a French woman recently paid the price in tasting Thai prisons, enough to vaccinate her against this country forever, for lack of having informed herself beforehand (and then she didn't want to keep a low profile…).
In general, smoking is frowned upon, not widespread, and especially prohibited in many public places, including beaches. If you can, refrain from smoking; it's a good opportunity to try to quit or at least cut down 😉
There you have it, opinions, your reactions, I'm all ears! Don't hesitate to comment!
75 Comments
Hello Romain,
I have already been to Thailand 3 times: 2 times for work near Pattaya and last Christmas for 3 weeks in the Phuket region.
I am returning for a month in February 2026 to visit and I would like to spend 2 weeks in the north of the country.
Do you have any places you would recommend that I shouldn't miss?
Thank you
Hello Nicolas,
It's not easy to answer in just a few lines, but over two weeks, I'd suggest heading up to Chiang Mai via Sukhothai and then Lampang, visiting Chiang Mai's classic sights (Doi Suthep, the central square and its ancient temples), and then exploring elsewhere. There are two options: either do a loop to Mae Hong Son (Pai – Mae Lana – Mae Hong Son – Khun Yuam) or to Chiang Rai (around the city, the White Temple, the Blue Temple, the Black House, Wat Huay Pla Kang) and then Phu Chi Fah, Doi Pha Tang – Chiang Khong – Chiang Saen – Mae Sai.
The choice may depend on your level of independence and travel habits. Using public transport, the loop to Mae Hong Son is easier, but in any case, you need to be able to manage on your own at each stage.
Hello. Thank you for your super interesting blog.
I'm planning to go to Thailand for the first time soon. And I have a question that's been running through my mind. Are Thai people, and especially the police, open to "clothing extravagances" like punk or other things? Let me explain. It's nothing really extreme, but I wear a fair amount of spiked bracelets, metal buckles, etc., steampunk glasses with spikes always stuck to my cap, and a few necklaces and other African charms around my neck. Do I have a greater chance of being bothered by the police or having difficulty integrating into the population with all this?
Another question. I always travel with my dog (a shepherd) who never leaves my side. Is it risky for her? Are there any things I should know?
So it's worth what it's worth because the person who told me that has never been to Thailand, but I heard myself say: be careful, they might try to steal your dog to eat her??
Do you think there is anything to worry about?
Thank you in advance.
Hello,
I can assure you, no, the police have no reason to bother you about your appearance. Overall, it's not a country that judges people on the way they dress (they themselves will sometimes use accessories that would be considered "ridiculous", or do some shopping in their pajamas).
Regarding the remark you heard, I beg you, on returning from Thailand, to explain to this person that it is very wrong to judge a country without knowing it... There is only one region in the country that can consume dog meat and never, ever would it occur to them to steal a domestic dog to do so. It is a Buddhist country, basically, they have dogs as pets and they love them, this person gave you a caricatured image, typical of a person who does not travel...
The only risk I see is the presence of many stray dogs. Most are peaceful, but depending on how your dog reacts, this can lead to some possible tensions. Be sure to find out in advance about the conditions and vaccinations required to bring her to Thailand, however, because it's never easy to travel with your pet.
Hello..thanks for all this advice!
do we need special vaccinations to go to BKK SUVARNABHUMI…thailand
Thanks a lot .
cordially
Marie
Hello,
As such, there are no mandatory vaccinations for Thailand. However, it is strongly recommended to be up to date with your vaccinations against hepatitis A, B and tetanus at a minimum. A rabies vaccine is not necessarily too much either.
Thank you for this very useful and well-detailed article! The advice you give is essential for any traveler wishing to respect Thai culture. I particularly appreciated the details on behaviors to avoid, such as not criticizing the monarchy or being careful about driving.
Hello, from my little experience over the past ten years, outside of big cities, I think that the list can be extended (and I am far from being able to make it exhaustive).
1-For those who go off the beaten track, when you go to the countryside, avoid going topless. Although it is very hot, getting naked outside your home is frowned upon and Thais will avoid your presence (the less honest ones, even if they are rare, will approach you).
2- Avoid drinking alcohol. Even if you are offered a drink, know that Thais are very tolerant, but the code of conduct is Buddhist and is very clear on this point: wisdom dictates that one should not get drunk. Foreigners are more visible (since they are different) and are often a topic of conversation, and it is a double-edged sword. They will adore you if you are a good Buddhist, and will mock you if you do not understand anything or ignore everything (more than if you were Thai). And from my own experience, the most pleasant and fortunate companies are those that are the most moderate and sober, they also carry within them the most beautiful values (in my eyes) of the country.
3- Do not play cards, although it is done, they always hide it, because it is illegal because the King and Queen are represented there. You risk prison. Be careful, in some funerals or weddings, this is practiced in the back room (especially if the dead person was a player) ... do not join in.
4- Wishing that an individual who does not behave well could hurt himself is also not good advice, because it is not a positive thought (not Buddhist) and it is in itself badly perceived. It is very unwelcome (it is really something that will make the absolute difference in your relationships) to speak badly of anyone and even worse, to wish them harm. The code of good conduct that is widely followed because it is deeply cultural, is to pretend to ignore and distance yourself from bad actions and negative words, because it is bad karma and it is experienced as something dishonorable to contribute to it. If you do it, even if you are right on a subject obvious to everyone, they will smile embarrassedly and stop talking to you, then leave.
5- If you are invited to a wedding or a funeral, it is an honor, go. Do not go empty-handed, everyone (without exception) gives according to their means and social castes exist, those who have nothing participate by working on common tasks with the family concerned. Know that even the bosses of a company must assist families who get married or suffer a death by giving (often with pride) according to what they have. Thais count everything and are tough in business, but they also know how to be very generous.
6. Never tell them how to do something when they haven't asked you to. Even when you have knowledge they don't (and there are many), because it's perceived as humiliating. At worst, do it yourself discreetly.
7- Very often, superstition is strong about everything, educate yourself rather than judge. There are many things that are not done also because of strong cultural superstitions.
8- Be considerate of older people and always let someone older pass, especially if you are very young and the person has difficulty moving. If you do not do it, you will not be criticized (as is often the case, it is very subtle to perceive what is good or bad because of the restraint code and you are the farang), but your commendable attentions will be greatly appreciated.
9- Generally speaking, Thailand is truly, for a European, the other side of the world. So, we highlight what is positive and you will really get (more than with us French), a blatant recognition, however, if you are an unsociable person, you will be discreetly pushed aside. Obviously, any positive act will be encouraged, at all times. And like everywhere in the world, a reputation takes time to build (although it can happen quickly in Thailand), but disappears in an instant at the first misstep (even more so when you are not at home).
10- They also have quite a lot in common with us, because by analogy, if France is the gastronomic capital of Europe, Thailand is the gastronomic capital of Asia. They talk about almost nothing but food! Just like us (but even more so). If you're a true gourmet, you'll be able to share this joy of the good life (in moderation). On that note, if you finish your plate, it means you want more. If your host can't refill your plate, that's considered rude. Don't finish your entire bowl. At home, you have to finish your meal, not there (and besides, it's better to try a little bit of everything).
11- Do not complain about a state of mind or health, whining is not an asset, be strong or isolate yourself if you cannot do it, put on a "good face" at all times.
12- Always start with “hello” (in the language) and always end with “thank you”. There are no exceptions that are worth it.
13- Never sit higher than a monk or a person who has been ennobled (or close to the royal family). Do not put a picture of the King or a monk in your bedroom. Do not put shoes on high and leave them outside. And nothing should be placed above the King and the pictures of the monks. Observe carefully, this is the case everywhere, in people's homes as well as in shops, it is not the result of chance.
14- Never talk about politics, on the one hand you risk not understanding what it's really about, on the other hand, it's none of your business and you will quickly put yourself in danger, whatever your opinions.
15- Sexual identity is more marked socially, therefore, depending on whether you are a man or a woman, you will be expected to behave appropriately (transsexuals are rather well accepted as is homosexuality, but it remains something relatively new and funny...).
16- And perhaps more than anywhere else, silence is golden, as are kind acts.
Bonne chance.
Hello,
Thank you for this mega testimony; but I must clarify that this is indeed your experience, which I do not question. But I see that the latter revolves in particular around the precepts of Buddhism, with a vision that I find a bit rigorous. If these are certainly an integral part of the local culture, they are not necessarily intended to be followed by everyone on a daily basis and as scrupulously respected when you are not accustomed to the customs and passing through the country like most tourists. And precisely, this list that you present would be more appropriate for a future expat than for the "average" tourist for whom I originally intended this list of advice. In order to clarify your experience, I have also numbered all of this, in order to provide my little clarifications on all of this, with my experience:
1- Going topless is common in Thailand, they remain quite modest (contrary to appearances, since it is not so rare to come across someone with their belly exposed).
2- Allow me to disagree on this. I have never seen a Thai person get offended that someone agrees to have a drink of alcohol! Thais consume an average of 8,3 liters of pure alcohol per year, which is the world average and they are no more virtuous than other countries. Furthermore, I have never seen a Thai person enjoy the company of someone because they think they are "a good Buddhist", judging a person as a bad Buddhist just for drinking alcohol is not precisely a judgment that you denounce in your list as something to avoid? On the other hand, on Buddhist holidays, yes, if you can refrain from drinking, it is preferable (which will often be easy because the sale of alcohol is limited or even prohibited in many places on these days).
3- It's mainly gambling that is illegal, not playing cards as such. It's the fact of having money in play or not that will make the act illegal or not. Having a fight with your kid won't send you to jail... As a matter of principle, just avoid playing cards in a public place because the police may be suspicious and ask you to stop playing, but it won't be because the king and queen are cards... otherwise they wouldn't sell cards... like alcohol, right?
4- Whether you are Buddhist or not, wanting to harm someone remains something negative… I think that what you are talking about refers to the notion of “losing face”, which has a preponderant value in Thailand. Making someone lose face because you show them that they are wrong can quickly send a Thai into a tailspin.
5- As such yes, but if you are invited spontaneously, I don't think people will expect anything from strangers who are not aware of local customs.
6- I haven't really been confronted with this scenario but if helping can be done by explaining things normally, there is not necessarily any reason to feel humiliated.
7- Thais are very superstitious, yes, that remains something quite true in general.
8- Respect your elders. This should be the same everywhere, regardless of nationality. If you are well educated, this is something that you will also find in France.
9- It is in particular this sentence evoking the "reputation", which I think, implies your list as more intended for future expats, because otherwise, people passing through will not have this problem...
10- Maybe it's something that we find in some villages in Issan or elsewhere but personally, if I don't finish my plate, people will rather ask me if it wasn't good or if I'm not hungry anymore, like everywhere... I think that the case mentioned is already more in the context of a family and/or festive meal and even in this case, I was never served again because my plate was empty or made to feel that I was rude for having finished my plate without taking anything back afterwards. I don't think that in Thailand in general we encourage "wasting" out of politeness.
11- Saying that you are not well is not necessarily something to hide, otherwise how do you expect anyone to help you if you end up needing a doctor or something else…
12- It's the least polite thing to do, like everywhere.
13- Few people will have the opportunity to find themselves next to a member of the royal family, but the remark remains valid for monks, which is why they are always seated on a promontory and not on the ground like lay people. Even among future expats, I don't think that some would think of displaying a portrait of the king in their bedroom. As for shoes, it depends where. When you go to a temple, a massage parlor, some restaurants, it is indeed common to leave your shoes outside, but not always! Some shoe racks are inside (to avoid the rain) and if you are at home, it goes without saying that you put your shoes wherever you want (well, except above a portrait of the king or a monk).
14- The subject being complex, it is almost obvious, especially, once again, if you are just passing through. Otherwise, in the long term, with people you know well, it is not a taboo subject any more than any other, there are just specific themes to avoid (royalty).
15- So there, how to say... personally I think that the average Thai doesn't give a damn about how you behave with your identity, "mixtures" being so common here. And to say that transsexuals or homosexuality is something "new" and "funny", to be polite, I remain "doubtful" about your vision of the subject.
16- No more than anywhere else, being kind is necessarily better everywhere, and being silent, not sure I understand why this adage would be worth its weight in gold here more than anywhere else??
Very well summarized, congratulations for your article which will perhaps help some people to avoid doing stupid things?
Thank you !
Hello
To complement your excellent advice.
In your tip #5, you talk about feet but you don't mention "Do not touch the head of a Thai person, especially a child" and perhaps a few lines about the WAI which replaces the handshake...
cordially
Sun
Hello,
It's added, thanks for the note! I thought I had at least talked about the children's heads but no...
Hello,
I just saw on the TV news that a woman on vacation with her family was arrested and put in prison for using an electronic cigarette. She stayed there in very bad conditions. They had to pay up to €8500 to get her out of there and leave the country. You absolutely have to add this information to your list.
Sincerely
Hello,
Done, thanks for the advice, even if this section concerning the laws of the country deserves an article on its own.
Hello Romain
Everything you explain is very interesting. I've lived in Thailand for 30 years and I'm a private school teacher, teaching French, English, and Thai. I can assure you there's a definite difference between your view of Thailand and mine, which I've experienced day-to-day for over 30 years. This country is evolving rapidly, perhaps too rapidly, and although many people don't keep up with this technological advancement, two important things in the lives of some Thai men and women are...
the smart-phone and the television a basic image but still very real today. One day soon the research centers on the internet will replace the teachers. Anyway I like this country very much and I love the Thais.
Please continue your advice is wise and can prevent more or less serious errors for newcomers. Thank you
Hello,
Thank you very much for your testimony and encouragement, as a long-time expatriate that you are, it particularly touches me! The fact that the article in question is already almost 4 years old, but, indeed and you are right, things are changing quickly; too quickly.
The smartphone and especially the obsession with its appearance and selfies are unfortunately clear proof of this...
Good evening, I'm having trouble finding out what happens to a Thai man who is found guilty of killing a tourist in an accident. Thank you for your response. The tourist, after hospitalization, was found to have no alcohol, no drugs, and no traffic violations. Thank you.
Good evening, if he is found guilty (if there is proof), he will unfortunately very rarely have to pay compensation, due to lack of means, and the punishment is rarely too severe when a foreigner is involved, because he is often considered to be at fault even if this is not the case...
Is it true that you can't have an e-cigarette with you and lose your mind or is smoking allowed???
thank you for the answer
Let's say that in principle it's better to do without it, I've seen Thais smoking it, after all the country doesn't like smokers generally so there are quite a few bans in public places etc. Maybe the opportunity to take a break 😉
Hello and first of all thank you for all this information, however for the helmet I do not agree with your idea, know that the helmets provided with the rental scooter rentals are very dangerous and will be of no use in the event of a fall, on the contrary they will make the situation worse because a helmet that is not the right size and that only covers the upper part of the skull is of absolutely no use, word of a biker I have seen CE standard full face helmets crack at very low speed less than 50 km/h so this kind of helmet which has difficulty staying on the head when riding is of no use and then it is really a shame to see a person like who seems very helpful wanting to put spokes in the wheels of young people I always wear the helmet out of respect for the country that welcomes me and I would rather put spokes in the wheels of these old pigs who take advantage of the misery of young Thais by treating them like slaves this behavior is not seen in young people keke as you say who are more respectful of women and will never touch children unlike most old fools who come alone to this country and I think that the Thais will be of the same opinion as me
Hello,
While I agree on the quality of the basic helmets provided with rentals (I also recommend investing in a better helmet if the rental period is long enough), I do not agree on the substance. Wearing a helmet seems so "normal" to me that I do not understand this tendency to "reject" it... As if it were a defect or a shame to wear something that is supposed to protect you. I saw another dead person on the roads on New Year's Eve and I am not ready to change my mind on the subject.
And beyond that, what bothers me the most is the simple ignorance of the law, a helmet has been mandatory since 2010, period, there is no arguing. And if it is true that it is difficult to respect in Thailand, given the many infractions noted every day, we also quickly understand why Thailand is number 2 in the number of road deaths.
I am not trying to throw spokes in the wheels, but I would like to recall the possible trauma of an accident, both for the person having it and for those who would be spectators. Please also do not fall into the caricature of the man coming to Thailand alone.
Hi Romain, thanks for your advice. I'm going with friends in May and we've decided not to go through tour operators in France. Do you have any ideas for places or advice to offer us? We're arriving in Bangkok and want to spend 2 days in Punkt and we're staying 2 weeks.
Hello,
I invite you to look at the article dealing with itinerary ideas, it might inspire you 😉
6 itinerary ideas in Thailand
Thank you Romain, yes that's right! I don't know who to contact to win my case. Because I'm afraid I won't be reimbursed. Thank you to anyone who knows how to do it, who to contact.
I advise you to contact the Thai tourist police, they don't joke about fraud by phone, for them it's a short number 1155, I don't think it's accessible from abroad but they probably have a number with which you can reach them, there are expatriates who live there who work for it will be easy to communicate with them, a person can very easily lose their license if a scam is proven, I advise you to look for their contact and play the bluff with this scammer, I hope you get your money back and above all I wish you a good recovery, courage for these difficult tests
Can you help me? I had to cancel my trip to Thailand due to a serious health issue. I paid for a room in a hostel in Koh Chang for the five weeks I planned to stay. It cost €583. I emailed my bank details (RIB with IBAN and SWIFT codes) provided by my bank, not from an ATM, along with the date and bank stamp. However, the owner, a Dane, claims the numbers are incorrect. My bank, after contacting them several times, insists this is impossible and that the numbers are correct. The hostel owner is being stubborn. I have a right to wonder: does he really want to reimburse me? What can I do? Have you encountered this problem? Thank you for your help.
Patricia
Hello,
Sorry for what is happening to you…. I have never encountered this kind of problem… because I usually go through booking sites like Agoda and Booking. Otherwise directly on site but never via a payment with RIB… Concretely you were debited is that right? And he, under the pretext of wanting to keep the money, tells you that the numbers are wrong and that he cannot reimburse you? It all seems dishonest to me… But I am afraid I can help you more.
Be very careful of corrupt police officers, I had the experience following a small collision without any damage to a scooter
And a policeman from Koh Phangan Island who was passing by tried to make me pay for a scratch on the party's scooter.
Third. This scratch was nothing but dust and when I wiped it with a little saliva, he was mean and dishonest by yelling at me.
Without me understanding what he was saying.
It was obvious that he didn't like tourists.
Hello Romain
Is it difficult to open a bank account in Thailand?
Hello,
Not necessarily, you just have to be patient 😉 By default, many banks ask for a work permit but by visiting other branches (so same bank but another office) you can be offered an account with only a passport. Knowing that here again, some ask for at least a long-term visa (non-immigrant), others, you can get an account even with a tourist visa…
Hello Romain,
To know a little about Thai culture (from the family there), I must say that your article is true and very well summarized! It makes me happy to see that you are respectful of this beautiful country.
Thanks for your blog and all your info!
Julie-Celine
Thank you Julie-Céline, it's a pleasure to see confirmation that the article is correct!
Hello to you.
Thank you for all the advice; it's very helpful for newcomers and others who aren't always familiar with local customs. Regarding not pointing your foot at another person, this is understandable because the foot is considered the dirtiest and lowest part of the body, therefore impure.
Similarly, you should not touch a child's head because it is the upper body, so the part can be the most considered.
Finally, regarding the fines, I find it deplorable. Not because we have to rot the streets, but we are falling into a system of denunciation just like in the time of the collaborators. As you rightly noted above, the cops and other potential lambdas follow the tourists to get a commission while the street behind them is a real dump. I have lived in Switzerland, Singapore, Germany, and there cleanliness, discipline, the responsibility of each person is a question of morality, education and not the fact of denouncing one's neighbor to get money. I say yes to the responsibility of each person, but a big no to this Stalinist system.
But still... a Thai can't stand being humiliated and losing face even if he's wrong. He's capable of the worst. I once had to jump off a bus in Bangkok after having surprised and notified a guy a little loudly who had his hand in my backpack. He ended up talking louder and louder, then took out a chisel and lots of people were running out, I quickly understood that I had to save my skin.
Regarding overstaying your tourist visa in Thailand, it cost 200 baht per day at the time. There was no way to get away with it. I met an elderly Frenchman who was weeks, even months, overdue and was never able to pay, so he was never able to leave Thailand.
For driving, Bangkok is probably warmer. The rest, you can rent your motorbike or car, the traffic is very affordable, but of course, you have to go out covered.
Sawatdee khrap.
Khun lio
Hello,
I already mentioned in the article how the head and feet are perceived by the Thais 😉 Renting a motorbike is common, but many daredevils who are not used to local driving get scratched on the roads and visit local hospitals… So be careful, in Bangkok that's why I opted for the car, less risky (less exposed in the event of an impact…)
Thank you for this advice, it can always be useful. We never find out enough about things not to do in certain countries, especially when they are countries where the customs are totally different from ours.
Indeed, it may be better to know the customs and traditions, this shows a mark of respect and avoids certain problems.
Hello Romain,
Thanks for all the advice,
D-9 for our departure for Thailand, your blog is fun, practical and nice to read without taking you seriously.
Congratulations on this fabulous work.
Michelle & Agathe (mother & daughter)
Hello and thank you! Always appreciated to have positive feedback on the usefulness of the blog 😉
Have a nice stay in Thailand!
Hello,
Like the previous users, I think your blog is great!! Well done for all this work 🙂
I was wondering if there were things to avoid for a young woman traveling alone (you will have understood, this is my case ^^) particularly in terms of security...
There you go, and thanks again for all the advice 🙂 Best of luck!
Thank you! This is one of the advantages of Thailand (and Asia in general) it is rather safe for tourists and therefore for young single women too. In very touristy places you just have to use common sense and avoid drinks from strangers (especially at parties like full moon).
Hello Romain,
It reassures me that you say that Asia is safe in general. My daughter wants to go backpacking alone from September to January and I am not at all reassured!
Hello,
I confirm, no need to worry, many come to Thailand alone including girls, after that it's like everywhere, a minimum of vigilance to avoid problems but overall very safe.
I just realized that the blog is 8 years old. Has anything changed there?
Hello,
So a small "correction", if the blog was created 8 years ago, it is still up to date and still active. In other words, this information is all the more up to date (and moreover, the article itself was published 5 years ago, not 8), while these are reflections on the customs and traditions of the country, which have no reason to change in only 8 years (on a country scale, it doesn't change that quickly!)
Great! Thanks for the info!
Hi Romain
Thank you for your advice and for sharing via this blog. We are a Belgian couple in our forties, and we are starting our research, initially for a "holiday" trip to Thailand at the end of this year, but also to consider the idea of a future move there.
We are fed up with the pressure we live under here in Europe, we yearn for a little happiness and simplicity of life, which seems to me to be possible in Thailand.
If we have specific questions, can we ask them to you?
thank you in advance
Lousberg Guy & Guillaume Corinne
Hi Guy,
Thank you, it's a good initiative to "test" what life is like here before settling here.
The blog is also there for that, if you have any questions, don't hesitate!
Roman
Hi Romain,
Indeed, your blog is very nice, I just discovered it. I will soon leave New Zealand, where I will have stayed for 10 months, to go through Australia, Japan and Thailand. These are my first trips alone (and my first at all in fact ^^), and I am trying to find out as much as possible about my future host countries. I have a lot of questions in mind, I was wondering if I could ask you for information if I need it :-).
Hi Julie!
Thanks! The blog is also there for that so if you have any questions, don't hesitate (come say hello when you're in Bangkok!) See you later.
Hi again Romain, it's better if you call me by my first name 🙂 it's my name that came out. It's not a big deal.
EXIT
Re, I suspected it 😉
Hi Romain 🙂
Your blog is great, I haven't stopped looking at it for a week now!!!
In about two weeks, my sister and I are going to Thailand, we're also going to Cambodia and Vietnam.
I have taken note of the 15 commandments 🙂 as you say you have to travel in a cool way and that is what we will do.
I will surely come back to you for further information. Thank you.
Hi Saida,
Thank you, thank you, it's a pleasure to be able to help and inspire! I hope you fully enjoy your stay in Asia! Don't hesitate to come and say hello when you're in Bangkok!
Great article, it's a change from the "15 things to do in Thailand" seen and reviewed!
Funny story about not pointing at someone
Thank you! Let's say it's complementary, to do, or not, at least we know what to expect.
Hi! I saw a similar article (probably the original one in fact), and I was shocked by the comments about AIDS… It seems obvious that we need to protect ourselves, whether we are in a high-risk country or not! The disease is everywhere…
For the rest, I'll take note, I've never been to Thailand yet but it won't be long now, and such advice will help you adapt a little better I think!
Glad that the article reworked in my sauce is useful! If you have any questions regarding the preparation of your future trip, do not hesitate!
Hi Romain,
Very good list of advice, I would add to avoid physical conflicts with the Thais because it can degenerate. On the one hand they are not afraid of death and on the other hand they are unpredictable with hot blood.
I confirm that the Bangkok police are really rotten and only think about fleecing tourists.
See you soon
Julien
Ps: for the beer we'll do it again because we're in Prachuap Khiri Khan
Hi Julian,
Indeed, even when you know you're right, it's better to keep a low profile when faced with an angry Thai... it's frustrating but more prudent, just last week I saw a taxi driver who was angry because he was cut off or something like that, get out of his car with an iron bar to go and hit the other one who drove off, leaving his car in the middle of the road to avoid conflict...
No worries about the beer, keep me posted!
Have a good stay !
The worst is in Pattaya and by far with the army it has improved and the law is more and more respected
I guess by "the worst" you mean driving without a helmet? To which I would say that any party place and by extension, islands and seaside towns are more conducive to "bad" behavior. People sometimes give their brains too much rest while on vacation...
Thank you for the advice. Thailand does indeed have very strict laws. That might explain the recent disturbances. Pointing your toes is also considered disrespectful, even insulting, in other countries as well. As everywhere, it's important to be aware of and learn about a country's customs before going there.
It is indeed the least we can do, finding out a minimum about what is good or not to do in the country we are visiting is the least polite thing we can do.
Hi and very nice blog, I just have one question: are there really people who have been locked up for criticizing the royal family?
Hello and thank you! Yes, the law against the crime of lèse majesté is the harshest in the world. A well-known case is for example that of Lerpong Wichaikhammat for having made available on his blog a biography banned in Thailand on the king.
There are quite a few things not to do in Thailand that are also not to do in Laos, a neighboring country 🙂
Nice blog 🙂
This seems normal, as a neighboring country they actually have a fairly similar culture, especially in the part called Issan (northeast of Thailand) which borders Laos. Thanks for my blog!
I just discovered your blog, and I read the 15 things you shouldn't do. So, I apologize, but I'm laughing at the part about not throwing cigarette butts or anything else on the ground, because Thais do it from morning till night and night till morning. They have absolutely no respect for the environment; I'd even say they're litterbugs. Anyone who says otherwise must be blind. I've lived here for several years, and if necessary, I can show it to anyone who doesn't believe me.
Other than that I really like this blog.
Regards
JR
Small clarification anyway but the remark applies to foreigners first and foremost, except I don't see under the pretext that Thais do that that we should be embarrassed and throw our cigarette butts and other things everywhere, that's what I write in my personal clarification, it's a question of common sense in my eyes. Moreover when you say that they are dirty I would rather say "neglected", a nuance certainly but think for example of India or even just Vietnam, there yes they are dirty. Thailand is certainly far from being super clean but it doesn't go to excess (but hey it's true that many places including the canals of Bangkok and even some beaches among others are unfortunately disgusting it must be said)
Thanks for the compliment though!
Can you leave your passport at the hotel and travel with a copy?
If there is a non-removable safe, yes, it is possible.
I realize I did some stupid things in Bangkok!
Let's just say that there are some bullshits that are more important than others, but these are things that are better to know before coming, now you'll be aware!
Hi Romain,
It's a good idea to go over all these things to respect.
Despite my stays in Bangkok and the fact that I am attentive to the customs and traditions of the country, I did not know this story of pointing with the feet.
I'll pay attention to that next time.
Regarding taxis, I have already experienced more than 6 refusals in a row to trigger the famous "meter" in tourist areas.
There are so many tourists who get discouraged in trying to win their case that they give up and pay a high price.
The most unscrupulous taxi drivers know this and take advantage of it.
I didn't know that a law requiring them to take a passenger had just been passed. Let's hope that this is a minimum respected.
In any case, hats off to your blog! There has been a lot of content since 2008. I am not disappointed with the trip and I will come back. 🙂
Hi Tony!
Thanks for my blog, I tried to do something coherent, blogging is not easy!
Since 2008 there are certainly quite a few things but everything is a bit disorganized but I am rethinking
how to improve all this (according to my article on Thailand and Asia version 3.0)
There are actually quite a few little things in everyday life in Thailand that have their “codes” that can be useful to know.
By the way, let me know next time you plan to pass through Bangkok!
For taxis, the law in question is ineffective because in practice few people bother to apply it, they don't want to have to wait at the police station, etc.
But it's true that some people are stubborn about the meter... And even when speaking Thai, some people insist on asking for a fixed amount...
Thanks again! If you come back I will (finally) put online the articles about our stay in Sri Lanka and India!