College students under 21 can begin planning their semester abroad trips based on the drinking ages around the world. While outside of the United States, the minimum drinking age is almost universally 18, there are some exceptions you need to be aware of.
Age 20 Minimum
- Japan
- Iceland
- Thailand
Age 19 Minimum
- Canada
- South Korea
Granted, it may still be possible to get a drink since these minimums aren’t as strictly enforced abroad as they are in the US. But just in case here are some countries with lower (or no) minimums.
Age 16 Minimum
- Germany
- Italy
- Netherlands
- China
- Thailand
The list of countries with no minimum at all include Azerbaijan, Poland, and Portugal. In both Poland and Portugal there is no drinking age minimum but you’ve still got to be 18 to purchase.
EDITED [9/8/08]: Steve let me know that Thailand increased their minimum drinking age in May 2007.
[photo by: Chris Breeze]
Actually the drinking age in Thailand is now 20. It was previously 18 and was raised to 20 in March of 2007. That being said, many bars don’t care as long as you look old enough and don’t cause any trouble you can get served. This doesn’t apply to the clubs in tourist areas or upscale clubs who will ask you to provide proof that you’re over 20.
Steve …. add Austia to your 16 YOA list. I was just there and saw signs in resturants in Vienna in May. Also FYI, please note that in some of the bigger cities in India. Delhi. (especially at the more upscale hotels) I saw posted 25! Your passport is your picture ID.
25 to drink??
Steve, any idea why the jump?