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Thailand Tips and Practical Information Thailand boasts a rich and fascinating culture. This is an extremely versatile country, not just in terms of scenery and climate, but also the many different things you can do in Thailand.You’ll be spoilt for choice in the lively metropolis Bangkok - shop till you drop, visit one of the many temples or palaces or wander through the authentic neighbourhoods like Chinatown. Nature lovers can go trekking to rural mountain villages on our Northern Thailand experience, through the lush, green hills of the north, go on an elephant ride and spend the night with the local hill tribe on our trekking Thailand tour. In the south you can go island hopping in a protected nature reserve in our secret islands in Thailand module, or enjoy the turquoise sea right on the doorstep of your idyllic beach bungalow while island hopping in Thailand. With Thailand Travel Plan you can build your own, personal Thailand itinerary using our bite-sized tours. If you’d rather leave the planning to us, we also offer a number of Thailand holidays. |
Thailand tips: Practical adviceTime difference: Thailand is GMT +7. Thailand doesn’t operate Daylight Saving Time.Phone calls: You can use your mobile phone in Thailand, though reception is poor (if any) in the more remote areas like Khao Sok. Remember that roaming rates can be pretty high. In the internet cafes you can make phone calls using the internet (e.g. Skype); cheap and easy. Voltage: Voltage in Thailand is 220V with two flat pins, so bring a universal adapter. Language: The official language of Thailand is Thai. There are 44 constonants, 38 vowels and 5 different tones. For foreigners it’s a tricky language to learn, especially because each region has its own dialect. English is widely spoken, or at least understood. Tips: On our Thailand travels we’ve collected several good travel tips. If you’re looking for a good place to eat in Chiang Mai or want to know where to find the best hidden beaches, click here for our best tips for visiting Thailand. |
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Thailand tips: Food & drinkThe food in Thailand is delicious – and cheap. A typical Thai meal consists of rice or noodles with fresh vegetables and chicken, fish or meat. Some dishes can be pretty spicy but if you’d rather not set fire to your mouth just ask them to make it ‘Mai Pet’ (less hot). Most restaurants have international dishes like spaghetti and chips on the menu which can be particularly handy if you’re travelling with kids. You’ll see lots of street food stalls wherever you go. In general, the food served here is perfectly safe to eat, but just make sure the place looks clean and the food fresh before you buy anything. Just follow the locals; if a place is busy with local Thai you can rest assured the food’s good. Vegetarians will be spoilt for choice in Thailand. If you have any other dietary requirements just let us know and we’ll pass it on. |
Thailand tips: SafetyThailand is one of the safest countries in South-east Asia, even for women travelling alone. Crime rates are low, largely thanks to the Buddhist culture which says that material wealth is less important and violence and hate are pretty much taboo. Still, travellers are always a tempting target so keep an eye on your belongings and don’t tempt fate by becoming careless. Leave your valuables in the hotel safe when you go out. In the larger cities be aware of the small con artists. Particularly tuk-tuk drivers have the annoying habit of making an unscheduled stop at a jewellery shop so often it’s better to take a (metered) taxi. You’ll also often be told that a certain attraction or temple is closed but ignore them. It’s a way of luring you to their relative’s shop and besides, attractions in Thailand are rarely closed, even on national holidays. |
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Thailand tips: CultureThailand is often referred to as the Land of Smiles, and you’ll soon see why. Ask a Thai something and you’ll be replied with a friendly smile, even if they have no idea what you’re saying. Buddhism plays an important role in the daily lives of the Thai. Over 97% of the population is Buddhist. Nearly all Thai men will have spent some time in a Wat (temple) as a monk to learn the Buddhist teachings. The Thai have several traditional customs. The head is regarded as the highest part of the body which deserves the highest respect. Giving someone a pat on the head is considered impolite. The feet then are the lowest part of the body and regarded as unclean, so don’t step over somebody or stand with your toes pointing towards Buddha. If you’re visiting a temple you’ll need to dress appropriately, which means shoulders and legs covered and shoes off. The monarchy is also held in high regard in Thai culture. Everywhere you go you’ll see portraits of revered Thai King Bhumibol. If you’re travelling by train and you happen to be at the station at 6pm you might suddenly see everyone stopping in their tracks to sing the national anthem as a sign of respect. These are just a few examples of the rich traditions and customs of the Thai, but you’re bound to come across many more on your travels. |
Thailand tips: What to wearThailand has a hot, tropical climate so you’ll mostly be needing light, airy clothing. Bring an anorak or thick sweater if you’re travelling to the higher regions in the north where the evenings can get pretty chilly. When you’re visiting temples you’ll need to have shoulders and knees covered, so a sarong and light shirt might come in handy. You won’t need to pack too many clothes as most hotels have a laundry service, Besides, you can buy shorts, t-shirts and sarongs when you get here and it’s cheap. Don’t forget your sunglasses and a cap or hat. Leave your waterproofs at home, if necessary you can always buy a cheap anorak or poncho there. Both backpacks and suitcases are fine, though a backpack is easier to carry around on your short transfers and for example boat trips. You’ll only need a mosquito net on the smaller islands where there’s no air-conditioning. Finally, insect repellent and high factor sunscreen are essential. Some of our treks and jungle modules have more specific baggage requirements. Click here for our tips on trekking in Thailand. |
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