Photos That Are Disrespectful, Dangerous, or Downright Illegal Abroad

Travel photos are meant to capture memories—but some shots can cost you more than just a few likes. In many parts of the world, what seems like a harmless picture can come off as deeply offensive, dangerously reckless, or even land you on the wrong side of the law. Whether it’s snapping sacred rituals, climbing cliffs for selfies, or flying drones where they’re banned, not all moments are yours to take. Before you raise your camera abroad, it’s worth knowing what crosses the line. Here are 11 photos that are disrespectful, dangerous, or downright illegal—and why you should think twice.

1. Posing with Buddha Statues in Thailand

It might seem harmless, but treating Buddha statues like tourist props is deeply disrespectful in many Southeast Asian countries—especially Thailand, where such acts are considered sacrilege. Sitting on statues, posing with your back turned, or playfully mimicking gestures can offend locals and even lead to fines. These are not souvenirs—they’re sacred representations. Thailand has run entire campaigns discouraging tourists from Buddha-themed tattoos or selfie antics. If you want to show reverence, remove your shoes, dress modestly, and skip the Instagram antics. Respect, in this case, isn’t optional—it’s the minimum.