Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is known for being one of the most visited cities in the world. In fact, it has been the world’s most-visited city from 2016 to 2019 according to data published by Mastercard’s Global Destination Index. This index was first unveiled in 2009 and has been an important index for getting insights into the top cities visited by tourists globally.
With tourists visiting the city around the year, many unknowingly commit mistakes that can come off as disrespectful, misinformed, or simply miscalculated. And if you don’t want to be that tourist, here’s the team unstumbled guiding you on things you should never do in Bangkok. Be it local customs, hotel bookings, or any other rules you need to know about, here are tourist mistakes you must avoid in Bangkok!
6 Tourist Mistakes To Avoid In Bangkok
Mistake #1: Solely Relying On Bangkok’s Public Transport
It is often believed that public transport is the best when it comes to exploring cities. However, Bangkok lacks an efficient public transport system. The city’s undeniably expansive, so we recommend not solely relying on Bangkok’s public transport. It is best recommended to explore the city on foot and using cabs and bikes whenever possible. We recommend relying on Bangkok’s metro system and ride-hailing services to travel between neighborhoods and neighboring cities.
The city is home to three metro systems, however, ride-hailing services are an extremely popular (and reliable) way of getting in and around Bangkok. Apps like Grab, Uber, and InDrive are known for their affordable and efficient ride-hailing services. This is an especially useful way of exploring the city if you’re a solo traveler and/or cannot drive.
Mistake #2: Wearing Inappropriate Clothes Inside A Temple
When in a new country, it is important to respect local traditions and customs, and that applies to what you wear as well. With plenty of temples scattered around Bangkok, temple hopping in the city can be a rewarding experience if done in the right way. Most importantly, while doing so, make sure that you wear appropriate clothing.
While you’re free to wear what pleases you when exploring the city, make sure you cover yourself appropriately when visiting the temples here. Avoid wearing clothes like ripped jeans, cropped tops, short skirts, or shorts when entering temples. Make sure to cover your shoulders and legs when entering temples as a sign of modesty and respect. Also, do not forget to remove your shoes outside the temple – a practice commonly found across Asia.
Mistake #3: Pointing At Something Or Someone With Your Feet
Many Asian cultures believe the head to be the most sacred of your body and the feet to be the most impure. So, it is believed that pointing at something or someone with your feet is offensive and rude. Most locals don’t appreciate such actions, resulting in you getting looks of disapproval or utter shock if you do so!
Additionally, do not point with your feet at images or idols of Buddha or monks. This can be seen as highly disrespectful and might even land you in trouble! So, when in Bangkok or any other part of Thailand, it’s best to remain grounded (pun intended).
Mistake #4: Not Getting An International Driving Permit (IDP)
Indians visiting Thailand are under an impression that they can easily drive in and around the country with their Indian driving license. While you do require your Indian license, you must also get an IDP before entering Thailand.
Renting a bike in Bangkok without an IDP can result in you getting fined for 1000 Baht per day! An IDP is really easy to get – you can do so online within minutes! So, when you visit Bangkok and plan to rent a bike in the city, make sure you carry your Indian license as well as an IDP.
Mistake #5: Underestimating The Bangkok Heat
Thailand experiences a largely tropical climate throughout the year, so we recommend preparing yourself for summer-y weather regardless of when you visit the country. Many underestimate the weather in Bangkok and end up going underprepared. The result? Excessive heat, sweaty clothes, and a spoiled mood!
We recommend carrying high-SPF sunscreen, hats, caps, sun-protection glasses, and breathable clothes to protect yourself from the moisture-heavy Thai heat! Also, we recommend staying hydrated when exploring Bangkok. Consume plenty of water, have fruits, regularly apply sunscreen, and avoid stepping out in the bare sun in the afternoon.
Mistake #6: Not Carrying Enough Cash
Thailand, like many other countries in Asia, heavily relies on cash for daily transactions. However, many tourists do not carry enough cash with them and instead rely on credit cards and online payments. However, note that cash undoubtedly remains the king of transactions in Bangkok and many parts of Thailand.
Many traditional Thai eateries and shops rely predominantly on cash and do not accept cards. So, it is better to carry cash as a precaution than searching for ATMs or getting rejected by stores for having cards! Not carrying enough cash is one of the most widely committed tourist mistakes in Bangkok – so it’s better to be prepared in advance!
Summing Up
Bangkok is a city that buzzes with vibrant energy, culture, and undeniable charm, but just like any other tourist destination, it comes with its own set of unwritten rules. Be it dressing modestly inside temples or carrying sufficient cash with you, these tourist mistakes in Bangkok are what you should keep in mind when visiting the city. After all, the best way to soak in the culture of Bangkok is by being a thoughtful traveler who knows what not to do!
