In Thailand, taking "underboob selfies" can land you in jail for 5 years!

▲Travel Clothing (Photo/Dazhi/Illustration)

By Rita

On a rare vacation, you finally don’t have to blow-dry your hair in the morning or spend the day squeezed into tight clothes. Isn’t a holiday meant for relaxation? Why worry about what to wear? While wearing the wrong clothes might cause minor embarrassment, the real risk is ending up with unexpected fines or even jail time. Some travelers let their guard down too much and, due to insufficient pre-trip research, unknowingly violate local customs and laws. The UK’s Daily Mail has compiled a list of"clothing taboos" from around the world—travelers, beware!

1. Don’t take “underboob selfies” in Thailand
This month, the Thai government announced a ban on women taking “underboob photos” within the country, as such acts can cause public panic and are associated with obscenity. Violators could face up to five years in prison. However, some critics argue that Thailand’s strict daytime regulations seem contradictory compared to the vibrant nightlife that thrives after dark.

2. Don’t wear leggings in Qatar
Last year, Qatar issued a rule stating that leggings—tight pants—are not considered “proper trousers” and are banned in public places when worn alone. Travelers heading to the Middle East, especially Islamic countries, should avoid wearing leggings, as most travel guides explicitly prohibit them.

3. Don’t wear swimwear on Spanish streets
In 2011, Barcelona announced that visitors wearing only swimwear—or less—could be fined up to around NT$25,000.

4. Don’t go shirtless or bare-shouldered in the Vatican
In 2010, the Vatican issued a dress code, which was quickly adopted nationwide and enforced across various locations. On a hot July day, men in shorts or women with bare shoulders may be told their attire is “inappropriate” and be required to buy a shawl and long pants at a nearby store, change into them, and pass inspection before entering the Vatican.

5. Don’t show shoulders or knees in Dubai
Tourists shopping in Dubai malls should avoid unnecessarily exposing their knees or shoulders, or they may receive a “warning card.”

6. Don’t bare your shoulders at Ascot
Ascot, located in Ascot, Berkshire, is a prestigious British horse racing venue closely tied to the royal family. It’s not just about horse racing—it’s also a global fashion event. However, due to repeated challenges to dress codes, “fashion police” now inspect outfits at the entrance. The 16-page style guide mandates that “hats are mandatory” and strictly prohibits “bare shoulders, open backs, or strappy tops.”

7. Don’t wear bikinis in Thailand
Thailand’s prime minister has stated that wearing bikinis in Thailand is highly unsafe.

★The image is a copyrighted photo provided exclusively to ETtoday EBC News Cloud by Dazhi Images. No website, newspaper, or TV station may reproduce any part or all of it without permission from Dazhi Images.