Thailand
We visited Thailand twenty years ago, this time with the family and my grandson. Chiang Mai was our first visit, and I loved the place.
Thailand is always welcoming despite all the tourists year-round.
It’s a popular tourist destination for travellers seeking everything from bustling city life in Bangkok to serene beaches in the south and lush jungles in the north.
- A few things you need to know before your visit
*Check for recommended vaccinations
*Sensible traveller book ahead
*Follow local etiquette when meeting Thai people
*Be respectful of Buddhism, which is a part of everyday life.
*Dress modestly while visiting the specific temple
*Show respect for the king and royal family
*Ask if the meal is very spicy or not !!
*Night market: Beware of fake items or cab drivers who will take you to dubious souvenir shops, fake “tourist offices,” and second-rate places to stay, where you’ll inevitably pay more to cover their commission.
Keep In Mind
**Geography & Regions-Thailand is divided into several regions, each with its unique attractions:
*Central Thailand– Home to the capital, Bangkok, this region includes historical cities like Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi, with ancient temples and World War II sites.
*Northern Thailand– Known for its mountainous terrain, it includes cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, which are famous for trekking, hill tribes, and cooler climates.
*Southern Thailand– Famous for its tropical islands and beaches, like Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, and Phi Phi Islands.
*Northeastern Thailand (Isaan)- A less-visited region that offers unique Thai culture, traditional food, and ancient Khmer ruins.
**Top Destinations
You will find ancient temples like Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, and the Grand Palace alongside modern shopping malls, skyscrapers, and vibrant nightlife. The city is also famous for its street food and floating markets.
*Chiang Mai-Known for its historical old town, Chiang Mai is a cultural hub with temples like Wat Phra Singh and access to nature, elephant sanctuaries, and hill tribes.
*Phuket-Thailand’s largest island, is a tourist hub known for its beaches, resorts, and nightlife.
*Ayutthaya-Once the capital of Siam, this UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with ancient temple ruins and provides a glimpse into Thailand’s past.
*Krabi and Phi Phi Islands– Known for their dramatic limestone cliffs, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. Famous for scuba diving and boat tours.
**Cuisine
The street food, and you can find vendors selling everything. The price is excellent.
**Nature & Adventure
Thailand is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers:
Mountains & National Parks- Northern Thailand’s parks, like Doi Inthanon, offer trekking, bird-watching, and waterfalls.
Elephant Sanctuaries: A sanctuary where you can interact with the elephants.A must-visit.
** Shopping
Markets-Thailand has some of the best street markets in the world. Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is a giant bazaar selling everything from clothes to art.
Floating Markets—These unique markets, such as Damnoen Saduak, offer a fascinating shopping experience. Vendors sell goods from boats.
**Climate
Thailand has three main seasons:
Excellent season (Nov–Feb)- The most pleasant time for travel, with cooler temperatures.
Hot season (Mar-Jun)- Extremely hot, especially in central and northern regions.
The rainy season (Jul–Oct)- Monsoon rains hit, though they are often short and intense, leaving plenty of sunny hours.
What To Expect
Language: The official language in Thailand is Thai.
Currency: Thailand’s currency is the Thai Baht.
Credit Cards and ATMs: In the main cities, you won’t have a problem finding ATMs, and most businesses will accept credit cards as payment. However, if you plan to shop at the local markets, you’ll need cash to pay for your purchases.
Plugs: The plugs are types A, B, and C. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 60Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter.
Safety: This is one of the safest destinations. While you must be aware of your surroundings, petty theft and tourist scams are usually the most significant things you must watch out for.
Destinations
Do While In Thailand
Respect the Royal Family:
–The Thai Royal Family is highly revered. Avoid making any negative comments or jokes about them. Even seemingly casual remarks can be considered offensive.
Dress Modestly at Temples:
–Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or sacred sites. Remove your shoes before entering.
Show Respect to Monks:
–Avoid touching monks or handing them things directly if you’re a woman. If you wish to give something, place it on a cloth or ask a man to do it.
Greet with a “Wai”:
–A polite Thai greeting involves pressing your palms together and slightly bowing your head. Use it when greeting locals, especially elders.
Take Off Shoes Indoors:
–Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. Many businesses also expect this.
Respect Local Customs:
–Learn a few phrases in Thai, like “Sawadee” (hello) and “Khop Khun” (thank you), to show effort and respect.
Use Your Right Hand:
–Use your right hand for eating or handing over objects, as the left hand is considered impolite in some contexts.
Bargain Politely in Markets:
–Bargaining is common in markets, but do so with a smile and good humour.
Drink Bottled Water:
–Tap water is not generally safe for drinking. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
Be Patient and Smile:
–Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles.” Remaining calm and friendly can diffuse tense situations.
Don't
Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head:
–The head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid touching people’s heads, even children’s.
Don’t Point with Your Feet:
–Feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Avoid pointing them at people, objects, or sacred items.
Don’t Raise Your Voice or Show Anger:
–Losing your temper in public is considered very rude and disrespectful.
Don’t Disrespect Buddha Images:
–Avoid climbing on or taking inappropriate photos with Buddha statues. Buying Buddha images as mere souvenirs is also frowned upon.
Don’t Sit with Your Feet Pointing Toward a Buddha Statue:
–Always sit cross-legged or kneel when in a temple to avoid this.
Don’t Hug or Show Affection in Public:
–Public displays of affection are considered inappropriate, especially near temples or sacred places.
Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English:
–While English is widely understood in tourist areas, locals appreciate it when you try to use Thai phrases.
Don’t Rely Solely on Tuk-Tuks:
–While they’re a fun experience, tuk-tuks often overcharge tourists. Use taxis or ridesharing apps like Grab for more affordable travel.
Don’t Step on Thai Money:
–Thai currency features the King’s image, and stepping on it is considered a grave offence.
Don’t Engage in Drug Use:
–Drug laws in Thailand are strict, with severe penalties, including imprisonment or worse.
