Rules of Behavior or What Not to Do in Thailand?

As many people know, all countries in the world have their own rules of conduct and traditions. As strange as they may seem, everyone who comes here is expected to follow them. In some countries they are stricter, in others virtually neglected. In Asian countries with an ancient culture, such foundations and traditions have been formed for centuries, so the approach to their respect and observance is extremely strict.

If a foreigner is not allowed to do something, it means not allowed and nothing else. Thailand in this regard is no exception. Ignorance of the local traditions and general rules does not justify their violation. So, in this article let’s look at what you can’t do in Thailand and what you can do.

The Thai authorities are very accommodating to tourists, but you should not check their tolerance for violators of established Thai laws. When going to holidays to Thailand, it is necessary to remember a few simple “not”. This knowledge will help foreigners to understand the internal structure of the country, to prevent possible misunderstandings and not to spoil your wonderful vacation, respecting rules of conduct in Thailand. Read about what trouble may await you in the article “Dangers of Thailand”.

So, what is forbidden to do in Thailand:

It is forbidden to make disrespectful remarks about Buddhism, Buddha or otherwise carry out insults to the religious views of the locals. When intending to visit any temple, you should take care to wear decent clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Most temples popular with tourists have a dress code and will provide them with a special cape, but it is better to find clothes yourself.
It is forbidden to take any images or depictions of Buddha out of Thailand
To desecrate places and objects revered by the locals.
In Thailand, a person may not enter a house or temple with their shoes on.
Touching female Buddhist monks. Buddha’s servants must be shown respect and it is forbidden to cross their legs in their presence.
It is forbidden to make disrespectful remarks about the King of Thailand and members of his family, and about all previous rulers. The punishment for such actions includes even imprisonment.
It is forbidden to point at objects or people in Thailand with the finger or foot. While in the temple, watch your toes – they should not be pointing at the Buddha statue, such as the Big Buddha Statue in Phuket.
It is forbidden to touch the locals’ head, as it is their most important and revered body part.
It is not recommended to hug the locals, giving sympathy or expressing approval, ordinary words of gratitude will suffice.
No copying the gesture of locals in Thailand called “wai” – bow with folded hands in a certain way. The gesture has several variations with their own meaning. The gesture of gratitude can be performed, but not first, and in response to the “wai” from Thai.
It is forbidden to write people’s names on anything in red ink. This color is for the dead, but for a living person it can mean a wish for death.
It is forbidden to write the names of people in ink on anything.
It is not allowed in Thailand to call the waiter by raising a finger up – you must raise your hand and clench it into a fist.
Leaving chopsticks on the plate after a meal is a bad omen. Thais themselves don’t use chopsticks to eat often, then, what do Thais eat?
You can’t refuse a treat in Thailand – you don’t want to eat it, just try it, otherwise you’ll cause deep resentment.</li
It is forbidden to order meals individually for yourself in company with Thais – in Thailand it is customary to share food for all.
It is forbidden for couples in love to show their emotions and feelings openly in Thailand. This country adheres to strict rules in maintaining family values.
Touching local females without their consent. Such an act can be considered an insult. You should know that only 1 percent of all Thai women are associated with sex tourism in Thailand.
It is forbidden to sunbathe completely naked or topless on the beaches of Thailand (how to tan in Thailand).
Speak up, openly express irritation or impatience in public places in the country.
Do not launch a quadcopter without official permission, serious problems are possible.

Output

As you can see, the rules of conduct in Thailand are quite simple and it is not very difficult to follow them. People come to Thailand for rest and relaxation. Enjoy it with a smile, a bit of wonder, nature and surroundings, and don’t forget a few things you shouldn’t.