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I'm an American who's lived in Bangkok for 10 years, and these are 7 things tourists should never do when they visit

Marielle DescalsotaApr 20, 2023, 11:52 IST

Orion Ray-Jones cycling in Bangkok, something he doesn't recommend for tourists.Courtesy of Orion Ray-Jones

Orion Ray-Jones moved from Brooklyn to Bangkok in 2013.
Over the years, Ray-Jones fell in love with Bangkok's vibrant and welcoming culture.

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is one of the most-visited cities in the world.

Bangkok, Thailand.Marielle Descalsota/Insider

1. Refrain from traveling around Bangkok on foot — take the sky train or a ride-hailing service instead

Chakkrawat, Bangkok.Marielle Descalsota/Insider

2. Don't believe everything that's shown about Bangkok in Hollywood films — the city is more than just the red-light district.

Thai woman on Soi Cowboy, part of Bangkok's red-light district.Paula Bronstein/Getty Images

3. Avoid speaking negatively about the Thai monarchy or Buddhism.

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn waves to royalist supporters during a ceremony.LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images

4. Look out for scams when visiting tourist attractions like temples.

Tuk-tuks waiting for the green light in front of Wat Phra Kaew and Grand Palace.Elena Aleksandrovna Ermakova/Getty Images

5. Hold off on public displays of affection in Bangkok.

A couple takes a selfie at Wat Arun in Bangkok.chain45154/Getty Images

6. Don't assume that pedestrians always have the right of way and be careful when crossing the street.

Scooters and cars waiting at traffic lights on Ratchadamri Road in Bangkok.Tuomas A. Lehtinen/Getty Images

7. Refrain from speaking too loud or getting aggressive.

Samphanthawong, Bangkok.Marielle Descalsota/Insider

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