21 Essential Tips for Visiting Thailand
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Thailand is an incredible country in Southeast Asia with vast beauty, vibrant nightlife, and friendly culture. Thailand’s food is rich and unique in flavor. Knowing essential tips for visiting Thailand is important as they will make your trip more enjoyable and prepare you for unexpected situations.
The locals are genuinely kind and extremely welcoming. In addition, the prices for activities, dining, and travel across Thailand are highly affordable!
Traveling to Thailand is an incredible journey that will open your eyes to a new culture!
Whether you visit the exotic coast, explore the rugged terrain, or mingle with other travelers in the backpacking mecca on the Khao san road of the globe–a trip to Thailand is filled with unexpected adventures!
Curious about the essential tips for visiting Thailand already?! Read further.
This post will teach you everything you need to know about traveling to Thailand and the best tips.
21 Essential Tips for Visiting Thailand
Tips for Exploring the Thai Culture
1. Always Negotiate First
Whether you are buying food from a local market or catching a Tuk-Tuk ride in Thailand, the first quoted prices may not be fair. Since the locals are accustomed to many tourists coming through the country, they sometimes offer an inflated cost of services to foreign travelers. So be prepared to negotiate the price of most purchases.
2. Adhere to the Cultural Expectations
Some unique expectations in Thai culture are significant to abide by. For example, don’t touch anyone on the head, and remember to show gratitude by using the “wai” greeting. In addition – make sure to take off your shoes when entering someone’s household.
3. The Nightlife is Exciting
Whether you are looking to party on the beach or experience the local culture at a night bazaar, Thailand is a country that habitually stays bustling into the early hours of the morning. So carve out time on a few mornings to sleep in after staying up late to experience the nightlife culture.
4. Don’t Mention the King
Although you may be curious about Thai royalty, do not ask questions or mention the King to the locals. The Thai locals hold their King in extremely high regard, and it is not socially appropriate to talk about the King. Furthermore, you may be fined or imprisoned for speaking poorly of the King.
5. Be Nice to Locals
When you visit Thailand, you will be shocked by how kind the Thai locals are. The Thai people genuinely want to assist the tourists visiting their country. Thailand is often referred to as “The Land of Smiles.” Make sure to return the friendliness by chatting with locals and respecting their culture.
6. Count Your Change
Despite the people in Thailand being very nice and kind, there are also lots of scams. Be careful with the money when you exchange. Before you leave the currency exchange places, make sure to count your change, so it’s correct. I’ve heard stories when people were getting less money than they should because they were scammed.
Tips for Dining and Drinking in Thailand
7. Don’t Drink the Tap Water
If you want to avoid getting sick on vacation, do not drink tap water! Many foreigners reject the tap water and may get an upset stomach if they consume the local water. Instead, opt for bottled water or refill a reusable water bottle with filtered water that can be found throughout the country.
8. Be Cautious When Ordering a Meal With “Thai Spices.”
Thailand is notorious for serving extremely spicy foods! Even if you enjoy spicy food, the term “Thai spice” typically means that the dish will be unbearably spicy. Usually, restaurant owners make sure to reduce the spice when serving dishes to tourists. Make sure you clarify the level of spiciness that you want in your meal.
9. Check Out Markets Galore
Thailand is filled with all different markets. So whether you are looking for local mangoes or knockoff designer shoes, the Thailand markets have a lot to offer.
Tips for Experiencing Thailand as a Local
10. Don’t Try to Squeeze Too Much Into One Trip
There are so many incredible sights to see around Thailand; it is hard not to try to visit them all! However, with so many diverse experiences and rich characters throughout the country, you will want to prioritize spending multiple days at each stop. Extended time in each location will allow you to experience the local culture genuinely.
11. Be Aware of the Stray Dogs
There are hundreds of thousands of dogs that are freely roaming the streets of Thailand. However, many of these dogs have fleas or other infections. So make sure to be careful around stray dogs and keep your distance!
12. Make Sure to Get a Massage
Not only are massage treatments extremely affordable in Thailand (potentially less than USD 5/hour), but they are also high-quality. You can find a place to get a Thai Massage on practically every street corner across the country.
13. Dress Appropriately When Visiting Temples
Temples in Thailand are sacred places and they do require some dress code. You need to wear some clothes which cover your knees and shoulders. In case, you do not have such clothes with you, you can rent them right in the temple. In not appropriate clothes (such as shorts and tops), you won’t be allowed to enter.
14. Visit a Floating Market
Floating markets are common around Bangkok. Many of these markets are composed of primarily local vendors. Not only will you experience the uniqueness of a floating market, but you can also meander along the rivers and canals to see the city from a different angle. Check out some of the most famous floating markets in Bangkok.
Tips for Traveling Around Thailand
15. Bring Extra Toilet Paper
Some of the restrooms located across Thailand have squat toilets. So make sure you have an extra toilet paper roll on hand to prepare for emergencies!
16. Avoid Staying at an All-Inclusive Resorts
Take advantage of incredible food while you are in Thailand! Not only is the food delicious, but it is also highly affordable. Staying at an all-inclusive resort may limit you from being able to experience the fantastic local dishes that can be found throughout the country. Be sure to visit food vendors and try the most delightful Thailand dishes this country is known for.
17. Ride a Tuk-Tuk
You may be wondering, “What is a Tuk-Tuk?” Tuk-Tuks are convenient ways to travel a short distance across the city. Not only are these three-wheeled vehicles suitable, but they also offer an exciting way to experience the city!
18. There is No Need for a Visa
If you stay in Thailand for less than 30 days, you do not need to acquire a visa. However, if you are staying longer than 30 days, you will need to secure access beforehand to ensure that you will be allowed to wait for the duration of your trip.
19. Take Advantage of the Weather
The weather in Thailand is phenomenal; it does not get boiling, and there is usually a nice breeze. However, there can be a high chance of rain! Therefore, check the weather continually so that you are prepared for any rain that may come your way. In addition, the moist air can sometimes cause the humidity to rise to uncomfortable levels.
20. Do Not Be Afraid to Travel Alone in Thailand
Especially in Bangkok, the majority of travelers are traveling solo. Bangkok has created a culture where it is easy to meet locals and travelers. If you are traveling alone, you are likely to find friends quickly that are willing to accompany you as you explore the country.
21. Don’t Miss Out on Jungle Trekking Adventures
Khao Sok National Park offers jungle trekking adventures you do not want to miss. Although the trails amid this national park are not highly rigorous, they offer the chance to see exotic plants, exciting waterfalls, a lush jungle terrain, and tons of monkeys!
Read my article about Thailand travel tips packing for a woman.
The Most Popular Destinations to Visit in Thailand
Bangkok
Bangkok is one of the most popular backpacking destinations across the world. I like this city’s historical architecture, local markets, and adventures! Whether you want a new tattoo, to experience the colorful character of Thailand, or to indulge in Thai spa treatments, Bangkok has plenty of options.
Phuket Island
Phuket Island is off the coast of Southern Thailand. This island offers some of Southeast Asia’s most tranquil and serene ocean views. You will notice some highly secluded areas more populated by tourists and visitors. There are many amazing things to see and do in Phuket while visiting Phuket Island.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is one of the most budget-friendly and “green” cities to visit in the entire world! The city has magnificent temples, elephant refuges, national parks, and jungle terrain.
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is known for its incredible natural landscapes and geographical diversity. There are many rivers, mountains, and hot springs. There are many things to do in Chiang Rai that you do not want to miss!
Ko Chang
Ko Chang has remained rugged even as the rest of Thailand has become increasingly more developed. This famous Thai destination is home to pristine coral reefs, jungles, and cascading waterfalls. Ko Chang is a great area to visit if you want to escape the hustle and bustle and truly experience the tranquility of the southern coast of Thailand.
Read about handling money in Thailand tips.
Although any trip to Thailand will be full of adventures, there are many tips that you can follow to ensure that your travel will go as smoothly as possible!
Final Thoughts
Visiting Thailand is an adventure of a lifetime! Whether you are visiting to check out the coast or exploring the vibrant culture, there are so many unique experiences that you can have on your trip to Thailand.
Make sure to explore the jungle terrain, relax on the lush islands on the southern coastline, and indulge in the famous Thai massages.
Although trips to Thailand do not generally require too much planning, it is essential to know the cultural expectations that will enhance your trip to the “Land of Smiles.” There are so many great itinerary options for a trip to Thailand. Start planning your trip to Southeast Asia, Thailand today.
I hope my 21 essential tips for visiting Thailand were helpful to you. Thanks for stopping by, and as always, happy travel 🙂
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