What Are the ‘Don’ts’ in Thailand?

The ‘don’ts’ in Thailand include yelling and arguing, disrespecting Buddha images, and saying anything negative about the king or royal family. Dressing in revealing clothing at government or religious sites is also frowned upon.

Another ‘don’t’ for some tourists is trying to take public transport in Bangkok. While the networks are extensive, the trains and buses are slow and rarely on time. The most convenient way to get around is a car hire in Bangkok with Drive Car Rental.

Before you hit the road, however, it helps to understand some of the local customs and what not to do while in the Land of Smiles.

When to Speak and When to Stay Quiet

In Thailand, reputation is everything. Thai people are extremely polite and want to avoid confrontation at all costs. You’ll rarely hear a Thai person raise their voice. When speaking with Thai people, if you disagree or are unhappy about something, keep your voice at a normal tone and volume.

If you raise your voice or start yelling, Thai people will immediately become uncomfortable. Not only that, but everyone will stare at you. In Thai culture, the person who starts yelling automatically loses the argument, whether they are right or not.

Thai culture also looks down on asking unnecessary questions. For example, if you go to a museum that should be open but a security guard says it’s closed, do not ask, “Why?” This aspect can be particularly frustrating to Westerners who are used to asking questions like this.

In many cases, a Thai person will say they cannot do something or that something isn’t available. Asking them, “Why?” will only embarrass the Thai person, who may or may not speak English that well. Simply nod that you understand and go about your day.

Serious Buddhism

Thai temples take Buddhism to a whole other level with their decorations, and they are a popular sight for every tourist that comes to Thailand. Buddhism is one of the most accepting and peaceful religions on earth. Being so accepting can lead some people to believe that certain behaviours are okay in temples and around Buddha images.

In reality, Thais take the Buddha image very seriously. This image is manifest in statues, paintings, and carvings.

Always show respect when dealing with a Buddhist image. One of the worst ways to disrespect the Buddha is by showing the bottom of your feet. When seated in a temple, be extremely careful that the bottom of your feet are pointed away from any image of the Buddha.

Another ‘don’t’ for temples is wearing revealing clothing. Shoulders should be covered and shorts and skirts should reach below the knee. Buddhism is also closely related to the monarchy and the government, so similarly, it is important to also dress modestly in government buildings.

When visiting the most sacred or royal sites in Thailand, you may be asked to wear full-length pants and sleeves. Thankfully, they are usually available for free if you ask politely.

Don’t Insult the Monarchy

Thailand is a fairly accepting country, but there is no freedom of speech when it comes to the royal family. The laws regarding insulting the monarchy are vague and the punishment can be fifteen years in prison.

Newspapers are forbidden from criticising the monarchy, even if it makes international news elsewhere. If you’re talking about the royal family, it is best to only say good things or nothing at all.

Don’t Overspend on Transport

What you should know about travelling in Bangkok’s Srinakarin neighbourhood–or anywhere in Thailand–is that public transit and taxi fares add up quickly. They are also inconvenient and can’t take you everywhere you want to go. Fortunately, Drive Car Rental has hundreds of vehicles at locations throughout Thailand, all available at a fair price.

Customers can pick up a car from any of our locations and drop off at another for maximum convenience. With the freedom of a rental car, you’ll be able to see much more than the ordinary tourist, and you’ll save time and money!

What Are the ‘Don’ts’ in Thailand?

When to Speak and When to Stay Quiet

Serious Buddhism

Don’t Insult the Monarchy

Don’t Overspend on Transport

ホットオファー

パスワードについてサポートが必要ですか？

Car Hire Bangkok Airport: Book Your Car Rental at Suvarnabhumi Airport | Drive Car Rental

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Car Rental Donmuang Airport: Make a Reservation at Donmuang Airport | Drive Car Rental

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Bangkok – Donmuang Office

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

BKK Car Rental: Bangkok Srinakarin Car Hire Office

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Bangkok – On Nut BTS Station

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Bangkok – BTS PHAHON YOTHIN 24

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

BKK – Phayathai Car Rental

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Bangkok – Sathorn Car Rental Service

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Bangkok – Singha Complex

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Nonthaburi – MRT Muang Thong Thani

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Nonthaburi – Car rental with Delivery service

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Buri Ram Airport (Partner Location)

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Car Rental Chiang Mai: Rent Cars at Chiang Mai Airport

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Chiang Mai Office – Delivery service

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Car Rental Chiang Rai Airport

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Pattaya Downtown

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Central Chonburi (Delivery / Pick up service)

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Chumphon Airport (Partner Location)

自宅住所

電話

Opening Hours

Car Hire Services: Car Rental U-Tapao Airport