10 Things Not To Do in Thailand

Thailand is famously welcoming, and Thai people are remarkably forgiving of visitors who get things wrong. That generosity is not a free pass, though. A handful of mistakes are genuinely serious, and a few are even against the law.

The three that really matter

• Never criticise or joke about the monarchy. It is deeply offensive to most Thais and is also a criminal offence under lèse-majesté law.
• Never point your feet at a person, a monk or a Buddha image. Feet are the lowest, least clean part of the body.
• Never touch anyone on the head, including children. The head is the most sacred part.

Temples, monks and dress

• Cover shoulders and knees at every temple — for men and women both.
• Remove your shoes before entering temple buildings.
• Sit with your feet tucked behind you so they do not point at the Buddha image.
• Women must not touch monks or hand anything directly to them.
• Do not climb on Buddha statues or turn your back to one for a photo.

Temper and tone

Raising your voice in public is one of the fastest ways to lose respect. Visible anger causes loss of face for everyone involved, and it rarely gets you a better outcome. Stay calm, smile, and keep the exchange light — this applies to haggling as much as anything else.

Tipping and bargaining

Tipping is not required but is increasingly welcome: round up taxi fares, leave 20–50 THB at casual restaurants, and tip guides and spa therapists around 50–100 THB. Bargain at markets with a smile, and never in malls or fixed-price shops.

Bargaining is meant to end with both sides happy. If the price will not move, smile and walk away — never make it personal over a few baht.