17 things I wish I knew BEFORE visiting THAILAND

 

17 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Thailand

I love Thailand, one of my favorite countries, but there are things I wish I had known before visiting. Amelia and I spent two months traveling Thailand, and we agreed it was one of our favorite countries we've ever been to. Let's get on with these 17 things:

1. Visa: From October 1st, 65 selected countries, including the UK and the USA, can get 45-day free access. Otherwise, you'll get the regular 30-day free ticket. To extend your key, you'll need to go to the immigration office with your passport, a photocopy of your passport, a photocopy of your visa stamp, a passport photo, and a printout of your flight out of Thailand.

2. Eat Thai Food: Thai cuisine is my favorite in the world. It's cheap, especially street food and night market food.

3. Renting a Scooter: In Thailand, you need an international driving license to rent a scooter. It's a great way to travel around different islands and parts of Thailand, but be careful in the rain and on gravel.

4. Where to Stay: Use booking.com and agoda.com for bookings. Search by lowest price and look for good ratings.

5. Full Moon Party: If you're in Thailand and the dates align, you have to experience the Full Moon Party. Book in advance to avoid high prices and being far away from the party.

6. When to Go: Thailand has a dry season from November to March and a wet season. Prices are cheaper, and there are fewer tourists during the wet season so you can get more value for your money.

7. Scams to Watch Out For: Be cautious of the scooter scam in Phuket, where the police may try to charge you for various reasons. Also, be careful with tuk-tuks in Bangkok, as they may try to overcharge you.

8. Stay Connected: Get a cheap Thai SIM card with an unlimited data plan to stay connected.

9. Itinerary: Consider flying into the south, like Phuket, and going up to Bangkok and further up north. It's a cost-effective way to travel without needing additional flights.

10. Places to Visit: Visit Koh Phi Phi, Pongna, Koh Phangan, Khao Sok National Park, and Chiang Mai.

11. Thai People: Thai people are genuinely kind and welcoming. Show respect when visiting temples.

12. Budget: You can easily travel for under £20 a day as a cheap backpacker. If you want more comfort, £30 a day will give you many more options. The north of Thailand is more affordable than the south.

13. ATM Fees: Be aware of ATM fees in Thailand.

Study Hacks for Traveling in Thailand

Money Matters

• In Thailand, ATMs usually charge a fee of 220 baht for withdrawals. To avoid this, you can go to a bank with your passport and card and withdraw money directly from the bank without any charge.

• Remember to take your card back after starting cash when using an ATM. Many people have left their cards behind, so be cautious.

Getting Around

• Thailand is known for its tour agencies, which can quickly help you book transport to your next destination. Whether it's a minibus or a ferry, booking through a travel agency or your hotel/hostel is the best way.

• For shorter distances, using the Grab and Bolt apps is recommended. These apps provide cheap transportation options without the need to bargain with taxi drivers, and language barriers are not a problem.

Thailand's Little Gem: 7-Eleven

7-Elevens are ubiquitous in Thailand, especially in cities like Bangkok. They offer various food and drinks, including popular items like iced coffees and the famous ham and cheese toasty. It's an excellent place for a quick and affordable lunch.

Quick Facts

• Thailand uses US plug sockets, so bring an adapter if you're from the UK or EU.

• Thailand drives on the left-hand side, like the British.

• English is widely spoken in Thailand due to its popularity among tourists.

• Avoid mentioning anything negative about the king, as it can land you in trouble.

Animal Tourism

While seeing elephants is popular in Thailand, choosing ethical elephant sanctuaries that do not support activities like elephant riding is essential. Some places still offer these activities, but it's not fair to the elephants. Choose covers that prioritize the well-being of these magnificent creatures.

Bangkok Belly and Food Safety

Be cautious with the local water used to wash vegetables, as it can cause illness. It's recommended to avoid eating radishes, cucumbers, and tomatoes that have been washed with local water. Also, be careful with ice in restaurants that is not of good quality. Food poisoning is not fun, especially during a short trip.

If you have any more questions, please leave them in the comments below. Enjoy your time in Thailand!