Thailand is a very forward and inclusive country but like any country it has it’s own rules. Ignorance of any law is never a defence in any country.

The UK has a travel advice page for Thailand.
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand

We are visitors in this lovely country and the very least we could do is to respect the people, their country and monarchy and their laws and cultures.

The police are very helpful and in tourist areas there are Tourist Police forces who speak english.

So here are some things you should know:

• Thailand’ “Lese Majeste” law criminalises any defamation, insult, or threat against the King, Queen, Heir-apparent, or Regent, with penalties of 3 to 15 years’s’s “Lese Majeste” law criminalises any defamation, insult, or threat against the King, Queen, Heir-apparent, or Regent, with penalties of 3 to 15 years’ imprisonment per count. The Thai people highly respect the Royal Family, so the law isn’t the only reason to keep quiet about Royalty. Interestingly Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, Spain, Poland, Portugal, and Monaco also have Lese Majeste laws.
• Defamation, Thailand has strict defamation laws, so if you are thinking of leaving a really bad review for a hotel or posting on social media, simply don’t. This law is taken very seriously and many foreigners have found out the hard way. In Thailand, it is a criminal offence.
• Alcohol, the legal age is 20 years old. It is also illegal to drink in public in many places , like parks and temples, so it’s best avoid drinking in public. Drinking and driving is also illegal.
• Illegal Drugs are widely available, but there are very strict rules with severe prison time for offenders. There are different rules for cannabis.
• Gambling is highly illegal. You are not allowed to own more than 120 playing cards without a licence.
• Driving without a Thai Licence or a foreign licence without an International Driving permit (which can only be obtained in your home country) is illegal, and any insurance you have will also be voided.
• Littering can carry a one-year prison sentence.
• Vaping and e-Cigerettes are illegal. You will see them everywhere but that doesn’t mean that the law isn’t in place.
• Passport. You need to carry a copy of your passport and any visa stamps at all times. Having a copy on your phone is acceptable.

We have some tips on how to prepare for your visit to Thailand and how to be safe in the country.