Thailand Travel Tips

Thailand is the travel hub of Southeast Asia. Most people coming into the region fly into Bangkok and make that their base for doing the circuit around Southeast Asia. With its lush jungles, famed beaches, world-class diving, amazing food, friendly and cheap prices, Thailand is by far my favorite country in the world! I’ve been coming to the country since 2005, lived there for 2 years, and always seem pulled back to it. It’s an easy country to travel and you can meet a lot of other people there. You’re never alone!  The country is a well-worn destination on the backpacking trail and everything is convenient and easy. However, there are still many off the beaten path destinations aways from the crowds and the prices they bring. Overall, Thailand speaks for itself.

DOS & DON’TS

LOCAL ETIQUETTE

• Do smile and be polite. Thais are very hospitable people.
• Do respect Thai culture especially when visiting a temple. Make sure your arms, shoulders and legs are covered.
• Do keep your wits about you when walking in busy tourist areas.
• Don’t sunbathe nude on the beaches.
• Don’t leave your arms and legs bare when visiting Thai temples. Wear t-shirts or tops with sleeves and full trousers in a place of worship.
• Don’t disrespect the Royal family in any way. Such behaviour is a criminal offence in Thailand
• Don’t disrespect Buddha images in temples or otherwise.
• Don’t raise your voices or get rude with locals, no matter what the provocation.
• No PDA in public. Locals often take offence at this.

SAFETY

• Don’t buy drugs. Thailand has very unforgiving laws for those selling, buying and using drugs of any kind.
• Don’t attract attention by wearing flashy jewellery or watches.
• Don’t get way led by touts promising ‘massages’, ‘girls’ or any other services.
• Don’t invite strangers to your hotel no matter how friendly they seem.
• Do call the Tourist Police for any assistance needed.
• Don’t trust Thai strangers too easily. Tourists are scammed pretty regularly by locals looking to make a quick buck.
• Prefer a metered taxi over a tuk-tuk. You’ll have fewer chances of being scammed.

GOOD TO KNOW

• Visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market for some cheap thrills and amazing street shopping experience.
• Visit a sky bar by night for a view of glittering Bangkok.
• Use the BTS and MRT for easy intra-city travelling.
• Do bargain and fix a rate with your taxi or tuk tuk driver before using their services to avoid any animosity later.
• Don’t buy any wildlife parts or products. It’s illegal to do so in Thailand.
• Carry a lot of water to keep yourself hydrated in the Bangkok heat and humidity.