If you’re planning a trip to the Land of Smiles in the near future, make sure you register for travel insurance before you go.
You can also check out the guide book I used while in Thailand, as well as my list of essential items for backpackers!
In some ways, Thailand is where this whole crazy blog began. While by no means my first international adventure, my time in Bangkok was the first time I truly felt outside of my comfort zone.
Traveling to Asia brought me the kind of adrenaline rush that Western Europe or the Caribbean just hadn’t given me.
While I’ve been living with a severe case of Wanderlust since the age of 12, my trip to Thailand reignited my need to travel with a vengeance.
Today I wanted to share with you a list of things you should know before going to Thailand. I was aware of some of these before I arrived in Bangkok, while others were a more of a shocking surprise once I got there.
Ready?
39 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Thailand
One
Eat off your spoon, not your fork. Eating directly off a fork is considered crude; instead, use your fork to push food onto your spoon.
Two
Yes, the people really are *that* nice. Don’t be surprised if strangers offer you advice or strike up a conversation with you.
Three
People don’t stand in lines. This took me a few days (and many long waits for the ladies room) to figure out. Instead of queuing up, Thais form a crowd. Stand your ground, and get used to a lack of personal space in public places. It is good to know this before you visit Thailand.
Four
Take tuk-tuks during the day and taxis at night. Taxis are more comfortable, but tuk-tuks give you a better view. Both are terrifying.
If you go to Patpong road at night (Bangkok’s equivalent of the Red Light District), ask your taxi to come back and pick you up at a certain time. Otherwise, you’ll have a hard time fighting all the other drunk people to find a ride back to your hotel.
Five
Don’t talk about the king. Seriously, not a word.
This is very important for Thailand travel.
Six
Gambling is only permitted on certain days (by order of the king, whom you are still not talking about, right?). Hit up the horse tracks on a pro-gambling day for an awesome experience. Prepare for lots of yelling, drunk people, and general debauchery.
Seven
Eat as many mangoes as you possibly can when you travel to Thailand. The mangoes in Thailand are the most delicious in the world.
Eight
Cover up your elbows and knees when visiting temples, wats, monasteries, palaces, etc. I’d recommend bringing along a light jacket or cover-up even on days when a temple isn’t on the itinerary — you never know when you’ll stumble across a beautiful wat you’ll want to check out!
Nine
Many of the popular beer brands also make bottled water. If you order a “Chang” or “Singha,” the waitress will likely respond “Chang beer?” to clarify. Make it easy by ordering “Chang water” or “Singha beer” to begin with.
As a side note, I’ve tried doing this in Thai restaurants back home and I just get weird looks. Go figure.
Ten
Don’t take a taxi driver’s word on it if they say an attraction or site is closed for the day; many times they will use this tactic to try to “suggest” other destinations which earn them a commission. If in doubt, just thank them for the information and ask another driver.
Eleven
Use public transportation. The BTS (Subway) and MRT (Light Rail) are cheap, convenient, and fast. You can get just about anywhere using these systems and they are really easy to use.
The maps make sense, the token system is efficient and simple, and the trains are kept very clean. Get a day pass to save extra money.
Twelve
You will see some roaches. Some days I saw none, other days they were crawling over my feet while I was trying to drink a mojito. Yeah, they are a little gross, but it’s not a deal-breaker. Better than rats, am I right?
Thirteen
The best-dressed woman on any given train, boat, or sidewalk is probably a ladyboy. I say this without meaning offense to Thai women, who are absolutely gorgeous, but as a compliment to the styling prowess of ladyboys.
Fourteen
Stay in a five-star hotel when visiting Thailand. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better deal at a top-of-the-line hotel than in Thailand.
We stayed in some fabulous hotels for around $100/night — some came with our own private infinity pools.
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Great article. We’re going to Bangkok in 3 weeks and this is the best practical information we’ve seen. THANKS!
Again, I’m Thais, I would like to recommend Thai food such as Pad thai (thai noodle)and durian(king of fruit).
Durain is smelly and need challenging to try one. Once in the life, Durian will became your fave fruit or your less fave fruit !!
HI , I’m Thais. Above, it said don’t talk about our king. if any tourist ask or talk about our king I would be impress that they know our king. Our king is well-known of his majesty
selfless. Our king passed away last year on 13 October, it is the day when tears covered the country. It might be hard for some Thais if they hear anyone talk about the king, but to me I would love to hear stories about our beloved king.
thank you so much .now i know why everybody in my country travellin there in april i plan go december and counting every day from now
So many suggestions for Thailand! All very helpful though. What time of year would you recommend going?
I’d say avoid April (which was when I went!) because of the heat and humidity. You can google weather trends in Thailand and pick a time that suits your preferences 🙂
Hi Anetta,
Going on a girls trip to Thailand IN APRIL. I live in southern oregon and I am a little concerned with the heat and humidity. I know its going to be scorching. Since you were there in April I was wondering if you had any good tips on trying to stay cool? Thanks so much!
Hi, Kelli! Humidity can be a bit difficult to deal with. I’d just make sure you carry plenty of water, and if you get overwhelmed you can usually find a place with A/C to grab a beer (at least in Bangkok).