top of page

15 Thai laws you didn't know could get you in trouble

Writer: BarryBarry

Thailand, the land of smiles, is a beautiful country with a rich culture and relaxed atmosphere. But what most people don't know that there are some peculiar laws that might surprise you. Here are 15 unusual rules to consider when visiting Thailand:



Een Thai Airways Boeing 777 landt op het moderne en bruisende Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok


1 Commando uniform in Thailand : 

Although Thailand is known for its laid-back attitude, commando, or going out without underwear, is strictly forbidden.


2 Leave your bikini on in Thailand :

Although Thailand has a reputation as a free country, nudity in public is prohibited. This includes topless sunbathing.


3 Stand still for the king: 

Thailand is a monarchy and the royal family is deeply revered. The national anthem sounds twice a day and everyone, including tourists, is expected to stand still as a sign of respect.


4 Helmet on, shirt on: 

Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a popular way to explore Thailand, but remember to always wear a helmet and shirt.


5 1 set of playing cards is enough to travel with:

If you plan to play a card game, make sure not to bring too many sets of playing cards. Bringing more than 120 cards is illegal because of gambling laws.


6 Do you speak Thai? that will be studying : 

Although there is a law requiring everyone in Thailand to speak Thai, don't worry, it is not strictly enforced.



 there is a law requiring everyone in Thailand to speak Thai,


7 No flag on the balcony at your Thai resort: 

Where in more diverse countries young people proudly hang their national flag on the balcony, this is not a smart thing to do in Thailand. Displaying foreign flags is prohibited.


8 Chewing gum dilemma: 

Don't be a gum dropper. Dispose of chewing gum properly as it can get you a hefty fine.


9 Don't step on the king: 

Thai currency has the image of the king on it, so treat it with respect. Do not step on the money, as it is considered disrespectful.


10 Party nurse: 

Dress up parties are fun, but don't dress up as a nurse unless you are a real nurse. Pretending to be a nurse is illegal.


11 Durian Dilemma: 

his “smelly” fruit may be delicious, but it is often banned in hotels and public buildings because of its strong odor.



11 weird Thai laws you didn't know could get you in trouble

12 Eating while walking on the street

Another strange law in Thailand is the ban on eating while walking on the streets. Although it may sound strange, this law probably has to do with preventing pollution and maintaining neat streets. If you are hungry, find a place to sit and enjoy your meal.


13 Ban on wearing slippers outside your home

In Thailand, it is illegal to wear flip-flops outside your home. This is a strange law probably intended to ensure hygiene and safety. But don't worry about this law being enforced. Most Thais walk on flip flops themselves


14 Leave your e-cigarret at home

If you are an avid user of electronic cigarettes, you need to be careful in Thailand. This is because importing electronic cigarettes is illegal and can result in fines or even imprisonment.


15 Ban on feeding pigeons

In Thailand, feeding pigeons in public places is prohibited. This is because pigeons are considered unsanitary and feeding them can cause unwanted nuisance. Keep in mind that violating this law can lead to fines or other forms of punishment, so be careful and respect this prohibition.

Comments


Not sure where to start?

Start your journey by browsing through our curated categories and exploring the variety of destinations that await you. Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, scenic landscapes, beach getaways, or unique cultural experiences, we’ve got something for everyone.

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Thailand

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

North Thailand

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Central Thailand

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

South Thailand

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Islands

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Thai food

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Travel Tips

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Hotels, resorts and hostels

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Thai news

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Ayutthaya

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Bangkok

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Chiang Mai

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Chiang Rai

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Chumphon

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Hat Yai

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Hua Hin

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Kanchanaburi

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Chang

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Kood

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Lanta

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Lipe

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Phangan

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Phi Phi

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Samet

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Samui

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Similan

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Tao

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Tarutao

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Koh Yoa Noi - Koh Yoa Yai

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Lampang

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Lopburi

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Mae Hong Son

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Nakhon Pathom

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Nakhon Si Thammarat

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Pattani

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Pattaya

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Phitsanulok

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Saraburi

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Singburi

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Sukhothai

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Suphanburi

Schermafbeelding 2023-04-11 om 20.45_edited.jpg

Surat Thani

taking photos

The people behind Yim Travel!

Wendy and Lili are two friends united by a passion for travel. Wendy, originally from the Netherlands and now living in Belgium, has a deep connection to Asia, especially Thailand, and a love for cruises. She often travels with her family and can always be tempted by Thai street food, Pad Kra Pao, and red wine.

Lili spent 30 years in South America and enjoys exploring Europe and her home continent with her partner. She shares Wendy’s love for cruising and is always up for Ben & Jerry’s or Tony Chocolonely chocolate.

Together, they explore the world’s most beautiful destinations and share their adventures on their travel blog, we-travelnow.com.

About us

Stay up to date with our news and events!

Join our newsletter for the latest travel inspiration, tips, and exclusive must-see spots delivered straight to your inbox. Let’s make your travel dreams happen.

bottom of page