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Sustainable Travel in Thailand

About Thailand


  • The capital and largest city is Bangkok
  • Geographically, Thailand is the world's 51st-largest country
  • With a population of 66 million people, it is the 20th most populous country in the world
  • Thailand is actually a Kingdom, with King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX, the world's longest-serving current head of state (since 1946)
  • Buddhism is the most prevalent and culturally important religion in Thailand, with over 90% of Thais self-identifying as Buddhist, while about 6% of Thais identify as Muslim
  • After experiencing rapid growth between 1985 and 1996, Thailand is now considered a newly industrialized country, ranking second in quality of life among the ASEAN countries
  • Thailand was under martial law from May 20th, 2014 to April 1st, 2015 after the Thai army took control of the country following the 2013-2014 political crisis - General Prayut Chan-o-cha is now the prime minister
  • Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia

Green Travel


  • Refill water bottles using the many reverse osmosis water stations - they're cheap (one baht for a big bottle) and super green. You can also check out our Sustainable Travel Guide for other clean drinking water options
  • Take public transportation. Buses and trains run efficiently throughout the country and taxi "trucks" are plentiful in many of the cities. Places like Chiang Mai are easily walkable and with bicycles you can get around even faster
  • Bring a reusable, packable daypack or grocery bag to avoid plastic shopping bags
  • Eat Thai food! It's delicious and the ingredients are always local and fresh, which means no emissions from international shipping, very little packaging, and seasonal produce

Responsible Travel


  • Avoid animal "tourism" and like other places in Southeast Asia, don't ride elephants - all have been through a horrible "taming" process in order to be ridden by tourists
  • Similar to Cambodia, the "Wai" in Thailand is a greeting used to show respect where the palms of one's hands are placed together with fingers pointed upwards, followed by a slight bow 
  • Know that Thai food is eaten with a fork and a tablespoon rather than with chopsticks as in many other Asian cultures
  • DO NOT participate in any kind of "sex tourism"
  • Always choose locally owned and operated hotels and restaurants 
  • When possible, make a donation when visiting historical/cultural landmarks - the money usually goes toward protection and preservation of the landmark
  • Remove your shoes when entering a home, wat, and even some shops/restaurants
  • Stay away from the head - do not touch someone’s head in any Buddhist culture, including Thailand
  • The royal family is highly respected by many Thais - stand in respect when the Thai national anthem is played

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