Thailand

Tipping

• Tipping is not customary in local eateries, but appreciated in tourist
• oriented restaurants (5
• 10% or rounding up)
• For taxis, round up the fare
• For hotel staff, 20
• 50 THB is appropriate
• For tour guides, 100
• 200 THB per day is appreciated
• For massage therapists, 50
• 100 THB is common

Money & Payments

• ATMs are widely available
• Credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas but less so in rural areas
• It's advisable to carry some cash, especially outside major cities
• No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees)
• Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes
• Do not touch people's heads, as it's considered sacred
• Pointing with your feet is considered rude
• The 'wai' (pressing palms together and bowing slightly) is a common greeting and show of respect
• Losing your temper in public is frowned upon
• Avoid public displays of affection

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Thailand is generally tolerant towards LGBTQ+ individuals, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not uncommon. While there are no specific laws protecting LGBTQ+ rights, discrimination is not prevalent, and same-sex marriage is in the process of being legalized.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• The legal drinking age is 20
• Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties for possession, consumption, and trafficking, including for small amounts of marijuana, which is legal for medical use but highly regulated
• Vaping and e
• cigarettes are illegal

Special Laws

• It is illegal to disrespect the monarchy
• It is illegal to litter
• Always carry identification documents
• Never touch someone's head
• Remove your shoes before entering temples or private homes