How to visit Bangkok in a way that benefits local communities and minimises harm.
Eat at local restaurants and street stalls; buy from local vendors not international chains; choose locally-owned guesthouses over international hotel brands when possible.
Avoid elephant riding, tiger photos, and performing animal shows — see ethical wildlife guide for details.
Haggling in markets is expected, but extreme bargaining over a few baht with a street vendor is poor form — the price difference to you is tiny, the difference to them is meaningful.
Not mandatory but appreciated — 10–15% in restaurants, tip tour guides generously for good service, consider rounding up with tuk-tuk and motorbike taxi drivers.
Bangkok is working on reducing plastic — bring a reusable bag (locals use them), carry a reusable water bottle and refill at hotels, refuse plastic straws.
