THE ULTIMATE THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE
Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. And for a good reason. Tropical beaches, millennial history, fantastic food tradition, glittering temples, and friendly locals: Thailand has it all.
Did you know that Siam (the historical name of Thailand) is the only country in Southeast Asia able to avoid western rule?
I’ve visited the country 3 times so far, and I definitely wouldn’t mind going back again.
Are you planning your trip to the “land of smiles”? Keep reading for the Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Language: The official language in Thailand is Thai.
Credit cards/ATM: Major credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are basically everywhere, especially in big cities and tourist areas. Just remember to bring cash if you plan to shop at local markets
Currency: The currency of Thailand is the Thai baht (THB). 1 USD is equivalent to about 31,5 Baht, while 1€ is about 37 Baht.
Plugs: The plugs in Thailand are type A, B, C. The standard voltage is 230 V. Remember to pack a universal adapter plus a converter for hair dryers.
WHEN TO GO
Thailand is a year-round destination, but the dry, cooler season is from November to April. That means this is also Thailand’s peak tourist season when prices are higher, and beaches are full of tourists.
April-May and September-October are excellent options to avoid crowds, enjoy fairly good weather, and lower hotel rates.
From June to September is monsoons season, which means afternoon showers and/or flooding. Some islands shut down, and services like boat transfers are limited.
ETIQUETTE
While Thais are usually hospitable and tolerant, they consider some behaviors impolite and/or unacceptable.
– Lèse majesté. Insulting the monarch is criminalized by the Thai Criminal Code. It is illegal to defame, insult, criticize, or threaten the king, queen, heir-apparent, heir-presumptive, or regent. So be very careful with what you do and say.
– The “Saving Face” culture. Expressing anger or arguing in public is considered embarrassing. Also, avoid public displays of affection.
– Temples. Cover your elbows and knees when visiting temples and remove your shoes before entering them. Do not point your feet to the Buddha, and never touch a monk of his belongings.
– Modesty. Avoid topless and public nudity at the beach.
– Don’t pat heads, especially of children. This is quite common in South East Asia: since the head is the sacred part of the body, touching it is considered disrespectful.
Feet: Feet are opposite to the head and therefore considered the “dirtiest” part of the body, so do not point them to people or sacred objects.
TIPS FOR A PERFECT THAILAND EXPERIENCE
– Plan in advance
– Avoid scams
– Check the weather
Keep reading the TIPS FOR A PERFECT FIRST TIME IN THAILAND
DESTINATIONS IN THAILAND
BANGKOK
KO LANTA
PHI PHI ISLANDS
PHUKET
KO RACHA
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