Tenure in jail reaches a decade for the individual who spent a week free.
Headline: Unforeseen Laws in Thailand: A Guide for Russian Tourists
Russians visiting Thailand should be aware of several unexpected and strict laws that apply to tourists and can lead to legal trouble if ignored.
Alcohol Sale and Consumption Restrictions
Starting June 27, 2025, Thailand introduced new regulations limiting the hours and locations where alcohol can be sold and consumed. These rules apply to both locals and tourists, restricting alcohol availability near railway stations and certain public venues, aiming to promote responsible drinking and public safety [1].
Strict Behavior and Dress Codes
Visitors must dress modestly and behave respectfully, especially in religious and royal places. Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines or legal action. These laws emphasize respect for Thai cultural and religious values [4].
Zero Tolerance on Illegal Activities
There is a heightened crackdown on foreigners involved in illegal work, illicit businesses, and transnational crime. A recent example includes the arrest of a Russian firearms dealer in Phuket despite maintaining legal visa status, highlighting strict enforcement against criminal exploitation of Thai entry rules [3].
Respectful Language and Conduct Towards Authorities
A Thai park ranger was recently dismissed following a confrontation with Russian tourists who greeted him in Chinese, which was seen as disrespectful. This incident implies that tourists should show respect and cultural awareness when interacting with Thai officials and locals [2].
Punishments for Certain Activities
- The penalty for smoking electronic cigarettes in Thailand is severe, with fines of up to 800,000 rubles or up to 10 years in prison.
- It is forbidden to crumple or tear local money in Thailand due to the images of the royal family on the banknotes. Damaging local money is considered disrespectful to the royal figures in Thailand.
- It is forbidden to take sand or stones from the beach in Thailand as it is considered an attempt to steal from the state, which is a criminal offense. All the land in Thailand belongs to the king, making taking a handful of sand or pretty pebbles a criminal offense.
- Tearing any images of the king is also prohibited in Thailand.
- Tourists in Thailand should not take seashells, corals, or marine creatures from the beach, litter, or feed fish as heavy fines, up to 30,000 rubles, apply.
- Shisha smoking for tourists in Thailand carries a threat of up to 10 years in prison.
- Playing poker and smoking shisha can lead to up to 12 years in prison or a hefty fine for Russians in Thailand.
- It is not advisable to turn one's back on Buddha statues in Thailand due to the religious significance of the symbols.
Conclusion
While Thailand is a popular budget-friendly and safe vacation destination for many, including Russians, it is crucial to be aware of these laws to ensure a trouble-free vacation. Strictly adhering to the country’s alcohol laws, public behavior norms, visa rules, and respect for local customs is essential to avoid unexpected legal issues [1][2][3][4][5].
[1] Thailand Alcohol Laws: What Tourists Need to Know [2] Russian Tourists in Trouble After Confrontation with Thai Park Ranger [3] Russian Firearms Dealer Arrested in Phuket [4] Thailand's Dress Code for Tourists
- Despite the budget-friendly and safe image, Thailand has strict laws that visitors need to be aware of to ensure a trouble-free vacation, such as the penalties for smoking electronic cigarettes, damaging local money, taking sand or stones from the beach, and playing poker.
- In Thailand, it's essential for tourists to follow stricter dress codes and show respectful language and conduct towards authorities, including avoiding the use of Chinese when interacting with Thai officials, as witnessed in a recent incident involving Russian tourists and a park ranger.
