Redditer: To Tourists from Europe: I know it’s hot, but please put your clothes on when walking around Thailand

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To Tourists from Europe: I know it’s hot, but please put your clothes on when walking around Thailand.​

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Hey everyone, Aussie here.

With peak travel season bringing loads of you over from Europe to escape the cold, there is a massive trend of European tourists wandering around Thai towns, shops, and cafes wearing absolutely nothing but bikinis or board shorts. It is happening everywhere, and we need a friendly reality check.

I completely get the climate shock. You have just left the freezing winter and stepped into a wet sauna. Your first instinct is to strip down to survive the humidity.

But here is the truth: Thailand is a very modest, conservative country. Locals are usually too polite to say it to your face, but walking around half-naked is viewed as deeply disrespectful. Also, speaking as an Australian where it regularly hits 40 degrees at home, even we do not go to the local supermarket shirtless. "No shirt, no shoes, no service" applies back home, and you wouldn't wander into a Tesco in the UK in just your swimmers either.

Here are the basic rules to not be that tourist:

Where to cover up​

• 7-Eleven and Shops: Do not go in shirtless or in a wet swimsuit. Throw on a t-shirt, singlet, or a dress.
• Scooters: Riding shirtless is a cultural faux pas and a terrible idea physically. If you crash, the road will turn you into a human meat crayon. Wear clothes, closed shoes, and a helmet.
• Walking the streets: Unless your feet are literally in the sand, you need a shirt on. Once you cross the road from the beach into town, cover up.
• Temples: The strictest rule. Shoulders and knees must be covered. A sheer scarf over a tank top will not work.

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How to actually stay cool​

• Stripping down just lets the sun fry you. Wear loose linen or breathable tech fabrics to keep the sun off your skin and let the breeze in.
• Buy cheap, lightweight elephant pants at the local markets.
• Remember that skin-tight clothes trap sweat, so always go for a baggy fit.

Thai people are incredibly welcoming. Showing a little respect through how you dress goes a very long way in how you are treated. Have an amazing trip, just remember to put a shirt on!