Thailand travel Tips
Travelling in Thailand is relatively hassle-free and the people are generally friendly, welcoming and helpful. Risk of violence and theft is low but levels of service standards can occasionally disappoint those with high expectations. Here are some basic tips and comments to be aware of.
-
Popular beach areas can get quite overcrowded in late December and booking is recommended.
-
Illegal drugs of any kind are not tolerated in Thailand and the penalties for possession or trafficking can be severe. Don’t get involved in any questionable dealings, as mafia-types proliferate in Thailand.
-
Thais are very keen to befriend foreigners and their intentions are usually innocent, but this can be deceptive, and scams (particularly in selling fake gems) are regularly reported. Getting to the know the locals is rewarding, simply be quietly guarded.
-
Although basic English is spoken by most who work with tourists, communication problems still occur, resulting in misinformation. Thai people prefer to give out misinformation than lose face by admitting they don’t know the answer.
-
If you visit between March and July, be prepared for the heat (35C average), and from June to October monsoon showers may frustrate your sightseeing.
-
Learning a few local phrases and cultural habits, such as approaching all ‘situations’ with a ‘mai pen rai’ (never mind) attitude, goes a long way to diffusing heated moments and gaining acceptance.
-
Thailand is cheap but this refers not only to the price but also level of quality. Visitors should be patient with their expectations, especially regarding service. Time efficiency is also rather vague and travel connections may not always go smoothly.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides - Thailand
Incomparable resource on Thailand travel from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
Thailand guide book
Highly acclaimed site built by Thai students with hundreds of pages of guides and useful info.
http://www.thailandguidebook.com/
Asia Travel Tips
Covers hundreds of topics related to travel in Thailand and other Asian countries.
http://www.asiatraveltips.com/
More topics on this site…
Thailand travel information
Thailand health and safety
Thailand maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: 30 days issued upon arrival to most nationals
Season: November – April
Money: Baht – ATMs widely available, transactions mostly cash
Language: Thai – English understood in tourist areas
Emergency #: 191; traffic accidents: 1193