The Land of Smiles is radically different from Russia, as completely different culture and traditions prevail here. The rules in Thailand for Russians do not differ from those for other citizens. But in order not to get into an awkward and sometimes dangerous situation, it is better to know in advance what you can and cannot do.
Religious taboos
- Buddhism is strictly followed in the Kingdom. Religion is the basis of everything here. It is forbidden to speak disrespectfully about the Buddha or religious traditions.
- If you plan to visit a monastery or temple, it is unacceptable to expose the body. Open areas should be hidden under clothes. This is especially important for the knees and shoulders.
- Women are strictly prohibited from touching monks.
- Buddha images may not be used for entertainment purposes or as ornaments or decorations.
- Entering religious places while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not allowed.
Cultural restrictions
- The head is a sacred part of the body. The Thais are convinced of this. If you touch a person's head, it will be regarded as a huge insult.
- The dirtiest part of the body are feet. Therefore, you need to carefully monitor the posture. For example, you should not point your feet at a Buddha statue or towards people.
- Thai people react extremely negatively when someone points a finger at people or objects. If you point your foot at something, it will cause extreme indignation on the part of the locals.
- Before entering the premises, you should take off your shoes. It is customary to take off your shoes not only when visiting houses, but also in small shops, pharmacies, temples, spas.
- Raising your tone or expressing negative emotions in public is impolite. A rude or noisy person becomes the subject of ridicule.
- Couples may not hug or kiss in front of others.
- Sunbathing topless is considered the height of indecency. Many locals even swim in the sea in their clothes, as they do not like to show their naked bodies.
- Do not touch single women without their permission.
- Very interesting is the prohibition to write the name with a red pen. It is believed that this color is used only for the dead.
Legal prohibitions
The rules of stay in Thailand for Russians in 2022 include a number of criminal prohibitions. For these violations, you can go to jail:
- Negative statements about the king or members of his family, as well as about previous kings, are prohibited. It is better not to cover this topic at all. Even a foreigner can go to jail for up to 50 years for this.
- A fine of 1000 baht is issued for the use of quadcopters or drones.
- The use of electronic cigarettes is regarded along with narcotic substances. It is forbidden not only to smoke, but also to import, sell and store. Violators will be sent to prison for up to 10 years.
- Private property cannot be rented out unless the owner formalizes the activities of the company. This violation is punishable by imprisonment up to 5 years or expulsion from the country.
- The police strictly suppress smoking and intimate relationships on public beaches. Violators are easily tracked by cameras or vigilant citizens.
- Special attention of the authorities is riveted to the Gulf of Thailand. It is strictly forbidden to violate the eco-balance of this place. For example, it is forbidden to feed fish, collect corals and shells. It is better to buy souvenirs in specially designated places.
These are the basic rules in Thailand for Russians that tourists risk spoiling their trip if not follow. Of course, the list is not complete. It lacks the usual restrictions. For example, drunk driving or using/selling drugs.
