Bangkok Scams and Etiquette: What Every Visitor Should Know

Bangkok is a safe city with very little violent crime. The things that catch visitors out are small scams that cost money and cultural slips that cause offence. Both are easy to avoid once you know them.

The scams

“The Grand Palace is closed today”

A friendly, well-dressed stranger near a big sight tells you it’s closed for a ceremony and suggests a tuk-tuk tour instead. The tour ends at a gem shop or tailor where the driver earns commission. The palace is almost never closed. Walk to the entrance and see for yourself.

The ฿20 tuk-tuk tour

Any tour priced far below what it should cost is subsidised by shop commissions. You’ll spend your afternoon being pressured to buy suits and jewelry.

Taxis that won’t use the meter

Especially near tourist areas and at night. Flat prices are usually two to three times the meter. Politely decline and wave down the next taxi, or use Grab.

Gem “investments”

You’ll hear a story about a government sale, a tax loophole or a resale profit at home. Thai gems sold this way are never worth what you pay.

Surprise bar bills

In go-go bars around Patpong and Nana, ask for prices before you order and pay per round. Watch out for “lady drinks” you didn’t agree to.

Overpriced “official” tickets

Buy attraction tickets at the official counter or through a reputable booking site, never from someone on the street.

Local tip: Most scams start with a stranger approaching you. Locals rarely start conversations with tourists out of nowhere — be politely sceptical when one does.

Etiquette

Temples

• Cover your shoulders and knees — no tank tops or shorts. Sarongs are sometimes available to borrow.
• Take your shoes off before entering a temple building.
• Don’t point your feet at a Buddha image; sit with them tucked behind you.
• Women should not touch monks or hand things directly to them.

The monarchy

Thailand’s royal family is deeply respected, and criticising them is a serious crime. Stand when the royal anthem plays before cinema screenings, and never step on banknotes (they carry the King’s image).

Heads and feet

The head is considered sacred and the feet lowly. Don’t touch anyone’s head — including children’s — and avoid pointing at people or things with your feet.

Keep your cool

Raising your voice or losing your temper makes you lose face and rarely gets results. A smile and a calm “mai pen rai” (never mind) goes much further.

Greeting

The wai — palms together at chest height with a slight bow — is the traditional greeting. As a visitor you don’t need to initiate it, but returning one is polite.

If something goes wrong

• Tourist Police: 1155 (English-speaking, 24 hours)
• Ambulance: 1669
• Police: 191

Keep a photo of your passport on your phone, and consider travel insurance that covers theft and medical costs.

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