Prohibitions in Thailand

In Thailand, as in any other country, there are both official and unwritten rules of conduct that every visiting tourist should follow.

Russian tourists have been exploring Phuket and other parts of Thailand for decades. Those who frequently vacation in this country are aware of the prohibitions and behavioral rules that ensure a peaceful stay. However, if you are visiting this paradise for the first time, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the cultural customs, beliefs, and laws. What should you never do in Thailand under any circumstances, and what might be excused as the actions of an uninformed tourist?

Cultural taboos are mostly related to religion or the physical inviolability of Thai people. However, there are also customs regarding food and public places that should be observed.

Of course, breaking cultural taboos won’t get you kicked out or jailed, but it may earn you disapproving looks and dislike.

In Thailand, you should not:

• Touch Thai people on the head or near the head;
• Shout or raise your voice at a Thai person. Most likely, they will refuse to continue the conversation;
• Point your feet at a person or a statue of Buddha. Moreover, when sitting or standing, keep your feet out of view;
• Enter a temple wearing shoes;
• Sunbathe topless;
• Hug, kiss, or display affection in public, especially near temple complexes;
• Write the names of living people in red ink;
• Leave chopsticks standing upright in a bowl after eating;
• Hug or kiss locals;
• Touch local women, girls, or women;
• Call a waiter with an upward-pointed finger;
• Enter a temple without covering your knees and shoulders, removing shoes, and strictly being sober;
• Women are forbidden from touching monks in any way.

In Thailand, there are things that can lead not just to moral condemnation but also to administrative fines or even imprisonment. Besides the obvious crimes like theft, assault, or murder, the following are prohibited:

• Speaking negatively about the King or members of the royal family. Violators may face imprisonment for up to 50 years;
• Flying a drone without proper permits. Unfortunately, enjoying an aerial view of paradise may cost you a fine;
• Vaping is even worse—electronic cigarettes are banned in Thailand and can lead to a strict sentence of up to 10 years;
• Hookahs are prohibited;
• Smoking in unauthorized areas can result in fines of up to $700 and a ban on re-entering the country;
• Engaging in sexual activities on the beach or in the sea. Violators may face a week in prison followed by community service;
• Stealing shells or corals from the beach or feeding fish can result in fines of up to 5,000 baht and deportation without re-entry rights;
• Buying or selling decorative Buddha statues (especially just the head) for decorative purposes is forbidden.

Observing the rules of conduct in Thailand is the key to a successful and comfortable stay in the capital and on the resort islands.

When traveling here, make sure to have good insurance and sign a rental agreement in advance with the person you’re renting from. Don’t take verbal promises at face value—Thais can easily take a deposit and disappear.

Keep all important documents and expensive equipment in a safe. Carry copies of your insurance and passport with you—these are sufficient for hospitals and police, should they have any questions.

Thailand is often considered a place of free morals, prostitution, and light drugs among tourists. However, many are surprised to see local Buddhists. Nightclubs do exist, but attending them can be risky—you could be drugged, robbed, or worse.

Additionally, local clubs are frequently raided, with all violators detained until their identities and circumstances are clarified. If caught using drugs, you could face fines, deportation, or bribes.

In general, Thailand is a place for lazy beach vacations, delicious exotic food, stunning natural beauty, and devout Buddhism. Respect local laws and customs, and you’ll leave with only the best memories of your holiday.