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A clean and conservative appearance is absolutely necessary when dealing with border officials, customs clerks, local police, and bureaucrats. A great deal of ill feeling has been generated by travellers who dress immodestly. When in doubt, look at the locals and dress as they do.
Shorts are considered improper and low-class attire in Thailand, only acceptable for schoolchildren, street beggars, and common labourers …not wealthy tourists! This is changing somewhat nowadays, especially in tourist areas, and if long, loose, clean and tasteful shorts are worn with an equally acceptable top, you will be OK. Except at beach resorts, you should never wear skimpy shorts, halter tops, low-cut blouses, or anything else that will offend the locals. Long slacks and a collared shirt are recommended for men in urban environments. Women should keep well-covered. Swim-wear is only acceptable on the beach.
It you’re really an outrageous and flamboyant type of individual, go ahead and be yourself since Thais accept eccentric behaviour from town crazies and oddball Westerners. Otherwise, if you prefer to be treated as a ‘normal’ human being, dress conservatively and try to blend into local society. |
