Bangkok- a hub of tourist attractions, the place of golden Buddhist temples, China town, special massages and the famous (or not so famous) Patpong red light district, lures holiday lovers from all over the world. Even though you will find that most of the urban Bangkok is like being in a never-ending party, there are however some faux pas which are best kept in mind.
There are many blogs and reviews which guide you to explore the city’s limits. However, we give you a list of things you must not do when in Bangkok! Read to know how you can explore the city like a true local and plan your trip.
1. Litter
Even though Bangkok is not one of the cleanest cities in the world, you will still find Police around who will fine anyone who litters in the city. Keep that cigarette bud in the empty beer can and find a trash can if you want to save the money for other pursuits!
2. The TukTuk deal
The TukTuk ride is a spot on Bangkok experience but beware of being tricked by the humble vehicle drivers! Do not fall prey to TukTuk drivers who ask for cheap rate for a whole day or simply stalk you. Usually the drivers have a deal with restaurants and shops and may just cost you more time. Your best bet is to hunt down a TukTuk who will not force you to sightsee places of no interest!
3. Talking about the Royal Family
If you speak of the Royal family in a disrespectful way you can be put behind bars for up to 15 years! Sightsee all the wonders of Bangkok and see the royal palace, a much better replacement to talking!
4. Shopping Recklessly
Shopping at Bangkok can get a little tricky since you may never know the difference between originals and fakes. If it helps, ask for a guarantee card and you must feel a slight relief! The prices are also often over the top and bargaining skills are a must when in the city especially if you are shopping at local markets.
5. Rely on Word of Mouth Information
As much as the people are helpful in Bangkok, do plan your own trip and decide which are the most popular places to visit in the city beforehand. Beware of visiting attractions on local word of mouth. What is famous in Bangkok is famous on the internet too!
6. Avoid Peak Hour Traffic
The Peak hours in Bangkok are full of traffic jams with TukTuks, Cars, Rickshaws and bikes. If you find a Taxi on meter, the prices will almost double in heavy traffic. Use Skytrainand the MRTMetro/subway to reach far off places.
7. Wrong Clothes
As much as Bangkok is a tourist hub, do try to wear modest clothes when you visit temples, invitations or simply while sightseeing.Wearing black clothes to auspicious ceremonies including visiting temples or family occasions is considered a social faux pas.
8. Sitting on the Reserved Seats
Public transport in Bangkok has reservation for Buddhist Monks and as tempting as it is to sit on a reserved seat, you will be better off trying to grab a seat for the unreserved passenger!
9. Massage Parlors
Budget massage parlors pop all around the city and in hands of a not-so-legit masseuse, you are bound to expect week long body ache. Spend a few more Baht to get a good massage.
10. Local Beliefs
The head is considered a sacred body part and touching anyone’s heador passing something over someone’s head will raise a few eyebrows for sure. Here’s another heads up- feet are considered unclean and hence footwear is always left outside while visiting someone at their home or entering temples. You may also plan your vacation in Bangkok through Bangkok trip planner.
11. PDA
As much as the urban Bangkok is relaxed, very rarely will you find couples showering their adoration on each other and kissing. If you are travelling here, save the intimate gestures for hotel rooms.
Bangkok all summed up is one hell of an experience. And whether you find it crazy, simplistic, religious or outrageous, you just cannot be a stranger to its charm.
There are many blogs and reviews which guide you to explore the city’s limits. However, we give you a list of things you must not do when in Bangkok! Read to know how you can explore the city like a true local and plan your trip.
1. Litter
Even though Bangkok is not one of the cleanest cities in the world, you will still find Police around who will fine anyone who litters in the city. Keep that cigarette bud in the empty beer can and find a trash can if you want to save the money for other pursuits!
2. The TukTuk deal
3. Talking about the Royal Family
4. Shopping Recklessly
5. Rely on Word of Mouth Information
As much as the people are helpful in Bangkok, do plan your own trip and decide which are the most popular places to visit in the city beforehand. Beware of visiting attractions on local word of mouth. What is famous in Bangkok is famous on the internet too!
6. Avoid Peak Hour Traffic
7. Wrong Clothes
8. Sitting on the Reserved Seats
9. Massage Parlors
10. Local Beliefs
11. PDA
As much as the urban Bangkok is relaxed, very rarely will you find couples showering their adoration on each other and kissing. If you are travelling here, save the intimate gestures for hotel rooms.
Bangkok all summed up is one hell of an experience. And whether you find it crazy, simplistic, religious or outrageous, you just cannot be a stranger to its charm.
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