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10 Things You Should NEVER Do in Bangkok
Bangkok is an exciting city full of culture, but it also has strict social norms. To avoid offending locals or getting into trouble, here are 10 crucial things to avoid in Thailand’s capital.
**1. **🚫 Don’t Touch People’s Heads
- Why? In Thai culture, the head is sacred (the highest part of the body). Even patting a child’s head is considered disrespectful13.
- What to do instead: Use a polite “wai” (hands pressed together in prayer-like gesture) for greetings5.
**2. **🚫 Don’t Point or Touch with Your Feet
- Why? Feet are seen as dirty and lowly. Pointing at someone or objects with your feet is extremely rude14.
- What to do instead: Use your right hand to gesture or pick things up5.
**3. **🚫 Don’t Disrespect the Thai Royal Family
- Why? Criticizing the monarchy is illegal (punishable by law). Even casual jokes can lead to serious trouble45.
- What to do instead: Stand respectfully during the national anthem (played at 8am & 6pm)5.
**4. **🚫 Don’t Wear Revealing Clothes in Temples
- Why? Temples like Wat Phra Kaew require modest dress (covered shoulders & knees)6.
- What to do instead: Carry a scarf/sarong or rent clothing at temple entrances4.
**5. **🚫 Don’t Raise Your Voice or Lose Your Temper
- Why? Thais value “saving face”—public anger is seen as shameful56.
- What to do instead: Stay calm and polite, even in frustrating situations5.
**6. **🚫 Don’t Take Taxis Without Meters
- Why? Unmetered cabs often overcharge tourists4.
- What to do instead: Use Grab (app) or insist on metered taxis4.
**7. **🚫 Don’t Buy or Carry Buddha Statues (Over 12cm)
- Why? Exporting large Buddha images without permission is illegal4.
- What to do instead: Purchase small souvenirs (under 12cm) with official receipts4.
**8. **🚫 Don’t Publicly Display Affection
- Why? PDA (kissing/hugging) is uncommon and frowned upon56.
- What to do instead: Keep physical contact subtle5.
**9. **🚫 Don’t Drink or Smoke in Sacred Areas
- Why? Alcohol and smoking are banned near temples8.
- What to do instead: Enjoy drinks in bars/nightlife zones (e.g., Khao San Road)8.
**10. **🚫 Don’t Ignore Street Food Hygiene
- Why? Some stalls reuse oil or have unclean water, risking food poisoning3.
- What to do instead: Choose busy stalls (high turnover = fresh food)7.
Bonus Tip: Emergency Contacts
- Tourist Police: ☎ 1155
- Medical Help: ☎ 1669
By avoiding these 10 mistakes, you’ll enjoy Bangkok safely and respectfully! Need more tips on where to eat or hidden gems? 😊
1 comment
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