Don’t Do These Things in Thailand
I am presently in Thailand on vacation. I recently went to historical places and noticed these unintentional mistakes made by foreigners.
Thailand is a country where a lot of places are sacred. Due to its culture and tradition, the country is not laid back regarding beliefs and superstitions. I am Thai, living in America, and now my husband and I are on vacation in Thailand. The other day, we visited Wat Phra Mahathat, located in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (Ayutthaya Province). Ayutthaya is one of many provinces where you can learn about Thailand’s history.
Historic City of Ayutthaya
“Founded c. 1350, Ayutthaya became the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai. It was destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th century. Its remains, characterized by the prang (reliquary towers) and gigantic monasteries, give an idea of its past splendour.”- UNESCO
Wat Phra Mahathat
“Wat means temple” and “Phra means monk”
Based on the information from tourismthailand.org, Wat Phra Mahathat is believed to be one of Ayutthaya’s oldest temples. It is assumed that King Boromaraja I (1370–88) was the person who built it.
Thai people believe every ancient place, especially those related to the monarchy, are divine and sacred. They assume that angels and spirits live there to protect the site and the property. Accordingly, tourists have restrictions they must follow when visiting historical places in Thailand.
I observed some tourists recently who unintentionally were not polite and respectful. Therefore, I hope that this article will be helpful for people considering, or planning, to visit Thailand and who may be going to Wats and other historical places.
Here are the things that you should know.
1. For all ladies, please wear your bra.
Don’t free your nipples!
I understand how hot and humid it is in Thailand, but we need to wear it. It is deemed very inappropriate to free your nipples.
2. Don’t wear a top or bottom that is revealing
Please don’t wear a tank top, deep v-neck, or other revealing (or even tight) top. Avoid a short skirt, or even shorts too short (that don’t cover your knees when standing), to any historical places and temples.
3. In some places, like the Grand Palace in Bangkok, you need to wear shoes that cover your feet.
Don’t wear flip-flops — or at least have other shoes ready, just in case!
My husband and I went to Wat Phra Kaew (Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram) at the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok, and we were required to wear shoes that covered our feet.
4. Please take off your hat.
When visiting a sacred place in Thailand, modesty is paramount.
5. Please do not shout or talk too loudly.
Please talk quietly and don’t forget to turn on your phone’s silent mode. It’s not appropriate to talk loudly or make other loud noises.
6. Tell your children that this is not their place to run and play
Running and playing in a historic or sacred place like it’s a playground is considered disrespectful.
