Thailand is one of the safest travel destinations in the world, but there are a few things to remember when visiting Bangkok to ensure a wonderful stay in this beautiful country.
If you plan on traveling to Bangkok, Thailand, remember these do’s and don’ts:
- Do Check Out Mall Food Courts
- Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head
- Do Be on Time
- Don’t Engage in Confrontation
- Do Practice Your Wai
In the remainder of this article, we will further discuss these do’s and don’ts while looking into the rich customs of Thailand. Continue reading so that you can be completely prepared for a safe travel experience.
Table of Contents
Where is Bangkok?
Bangkok, known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon to the locals, is located on the Chao Phraya River and is the capital city of Thailand in Southeast Asia.
Before Thailand was established as an independent country, it was known as Siam, with Bangkok as its capital since the late 1700s. Though Thailand is still considered a developing nation by international standards, Bangkok has grown and flourished since its inception in the 18th century. It now controls most of Thailand’s imports and exports, as well as the civic structure.
Due to Thailand’s rich history and traditions, the city of Bangkok stands as a multicultural mecca with many social customs to learn. To remain respectful while enjoying your time in Bangkok, it’s best to learn what customs to take part in. This may range from enjoying traditional food to respectfully greeting your peers.
What Are the Do's and Don'ts in Bangkok?
While in Bangkok, you will probably want to check out local venues and take part in the rich culture of Thailand. But, there are a few things to remember while visiting this beautiful city to ensure you travel safely while respecting the broad mix of cultures and traditions found here.
Do Practice Your Wai
Common actions, such as physical touch and greetings, are not as familiar to Thai natives. However, the “wai” is a custom of Thai tradition that establishes respect for the person you are speaking to. This custom involves bowing respectably upon meeting someone, which is the equivalent of the western handshake.
The steps initiating or reciprocating a wai include:
- Raising both of your hands
- Joining together your palms
- Pointing your fingers upward
- Lightly pressing your thumbs to your chest or forehead
(Source: Faculty of Medicine)
This action can be taken in any setting, including while walking, standing, or sitting. Traditionally, the youngest person in an interaction will initiate the wai, and the person’s senior will return the gesture. However, don’t fret if your wai is not reciprocated. If there is a social distance between two people, the wai is not usually returned.
Depending on your age and level of respect, there are different structures the wai may take. The following list of examples explains different scenarios and how the wai might occur.
| Condition of the Greeting | Proper Structure of the Wai |
|---|---|
| When a senior initiates a wai with their junior | The first three steps are followed, and the joined palms are placed near the chest. |
| If a younger person addresses their senior (such as an elder, teacher, employer, etc.) | Follow the first three steps; the thumbs are lightly held to the forehead as the junior bows respectfully. Only the head and neck should be bent. |
| When greeting a monk or other religious official | This will follow a similar pattern of greeting one’s senior. However, the head will be bowed forward slightly lower as the thumbs are places gently to the forehead. |
| If a junior who is standing is making the wai towards a senior who is seated | The person standing will stoop or bow forward to meet the seated person’s range of sight. Then the wai follows the pattern of head bowed with thumbs pressed near the forehead. |
(Source: Faculty of Medicine)
Following the wai practice helps you remain polite and friendly to those you may encounter on your trip to Bangkok. Before your arrival, it may help to practice these scenarios with a friend or family member.
Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head
Thai traditions are deeply rooted in a hierarchical relationship which is taken very seriously. Most people native to Thailand look at the concept of hierarchy with respect, which affects their view of social relationships, familial ties, and even the structure of someone’s body.
The head is at the top of the body’s hierarchy, so it commands the most respect. This means that the head is the most sacred part of the body, and to touch someone else’s is one of the highest forms of disrespect.
This includes babies, toddlers, and any youth. This may seem like a playful action to some, but this is seen as socially disrespectable in Thai cities like Bangkok.
Keeping the hierarchy in mind, this places the feet at the lowest form of respect. Small gestures, such as pointing with your feet, expresses a form of disrespect in Thai culture. Remember to watch your feet and never touch them to another person’s.
Do Be on Time
Whether you’re planning a business meeting, going to a dinner party, or making reservations at a local restaurant, it is important to be on time. Respect is deeply valued in Bangkok, so timeliness is expected in all social situations.
Consider any social or business event you plan akin to a job interview. To be respectful of the person you are meeting with, they want to see you extend the same courtesy. If possible, even show up a little early if the event allows for it. This sign of respect is worth the wait.
Don’t Engage in Confrontation
The common religion of Bangkok is Buddhism, which teaches respect for others while not getting hung up on the material world. This has helped the culture in Thailand develop a distaste for confrontation or violence.
Remember that Thailand is often referred to as the “Land of Smiles,” so showing any form of anger or agitation will earn you uncomfortable stares. People will remember negative interactions, and the person expressing anger often becomes a social outcast. That is never a fun way to be viewed while visiting a foreign country.
Instead of anger, you will probably see certain reactions of Thai people in uncomfortable situations. These may include:
- A change of subject
- Uncomfortable silence
- Removing themselves from the situation
- Agreeing verbally
- Uncomfortable body language
(Source: Faculty of Medicine)
The best practice is to watch your tone and body language while visiting Bangkok. Try to never raise your voice or make gestures that can be seen as violent or aggressive.
Do Check Out Mall Food Courts
While in Bangkok, you will most likely want to indulge in some traditional Thai dishes. You can find many street vendors selling common Thai dishes, but there are also many options in an often forgotten place.
Due to Bangkok’s hot and humid climate, many travelers and tourists find the best dishes in mall food courts. Not only are the food courts in the mall full of offshoots from local restaurants, but you may also find “the best of street food there.”
This is also a great place to meet local people and other travelers. Doing so will give you a chance to practice your wai in a heavily populated public setting. You can also sit back and watch how others interact. This way, you can enjoy great food while learning how others in Bangkok interact.
What Parts of Bangkok Are Dangerous?
Overall, Thailand is a safe place for travelers. However, there are a few places to avoid as a tourist. Although Thailand is full of beautiful beaches, wonderful eateries, and bustling shopping centers, some parts of the country are still in conflict.
Toward the southern tip of Thailand, you might find provinces that are too dangerous for tourists to venture. In 2021, these specific provinces have been labeled as dangerous by the United States Department of State:
- Yala
- Pattani
- Narathiwat
- Songkhla
(Source: ViaHero)
There, you will most likely find violent protests and severe civil unrest.
In addition, unfortunately, some areas of Bangkok have higher crime rates, including people taking advantage of tourists and foreigners unfamiliar with the area:
- Soi Lat Phrao 101
- Soi Lat Phrao 107
- Soi Sukhumvit 105
- Soi Phaholyothin 52
- Soi Suphaphong
- Soi On Nut
- Soi Chalermprakiat 14
- Victory Monument
- Sanam Luang
- Ramintra Market
(Source: Richard Barrow)
However, although Bangkok has dangerous areas and highways, most tourist destinations are highly patrolled by police. This is because Thailand values foreign visitors and works hard to provide a positive experience.
Safest Parts of Bangkok
To remain safe, stick to areas that are known for being friendly to non-natives. The following is a list of places that are safe for foreign travelers:
- Banglamphu – a historic sight with attractions like the Grand Palace and bustling nightlife. Police are always present in this area, so crime is low.
- Thonglor – this is a highbrow area for local bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
- Riverside – a less populated part of Bangkok that is home to upscale hotels, malls, restaurants, and shopping centers.
- Ari – this area provides a more intimate feel as it is newly becoming popular, but there is still plenty of character in this small area.
- Silom – this is the largest business area and financial core of Bangkok. It also houses one of the oldest red-light districts.
- Pratunam – there is a large market of the same name housed here that is open 24/7. This assures that people are always out in this part of the city, so police heavily patrol it.
- Ko Samet – if you are looking for a quiet beach, try Ko Samet, which is a part of the west coast beach.
(Source: Culture Trip)
Tips to Stay Safe While in Bangkok
The best ways to practice safety in Bangkok are similar to the rules you might follow at home (or in a crowded bar). These may include:
- Watch Your Surroundings – Bangkok is a busy city, so pay attention to traffic and signals.
- Stay With Your Drink – In heavy tourist destinations, there often runs a higher risk of someone slipping a sedative into unwatched drinks. Also, never accept “free” drinks from strangers.
- Avoid Recreational Drug Use – Thailand has very strict drug laws, so being caught with narcotics could land you a prison sentence or the death penalty.
- Keep Your Opinions to Yourself – Speaking negatively about the royal family or political leaders of Thailand can quickly land you in prison.
- Avoid Scammers – Avoid letting strangers take you away from your destination sites because they “closed early.” This is a common ploy to trick tourists out of their money.
- Taxi Cabs – Only ride in officially registered taxis and report any negative experience to the Thai tourism board.
(Source: Nomadic Matt)
Conclusion
Bangkok’s do’s and don’ts all boil down to a sense of respect for those around you and keeping your safety in mind. By practicing a few cultural customs and familiarizing yourself with the area, you are set for a spectacular trip. Happy travels!