1. Make hotel reservations, well in advance if traveling during the peak season of November to March. This includes air tickets, and even restaurant reservations for Christmas dinner and New Year’s. Review all bills closely and watch for extra charges.

  1. Tipping in restaurants isn’t expected, unless you want to give extra. A 10% surcharge is often included on bills.

  1. Proper respect must be shown to Thai Royal Family at all times. This respect also entails the proper handling of money and stamps as the Monarchy’s pictures are placed there.  Monks should not to be touched by women as it results in special cleansing rituals. Religious artifacts no matter how small must be treated with respect.

  1. Remove your shoes before entering temples and don’t enter unless you are dressed conservatively (legs, shoulders and tummy covered). Never climb on any of the statues.

  1. Avoid touching Thais unless you know them well and don’t touch them on the head. They believe the head is where their spirit resides.

  1. Try to remain calm even when angry. Emotional outbursts of any kind in Thailand are  considered a sign of poor upbringing and are mostly ignored.

  1. Remember to smile often and acknowledge the “wai.”

  1. The Thai language has a male and female component to it so learn the basic greetings from the same gender. The endings of some of the words are slightly different (ca,cup).

  1. Negotiate with street vendors, at least 10% of asking price. Shop around before buying from tailors to compare prices and be especially careful when buying gems, jewelry and antiques.

  1. Always wear a helmet when driving a motor bike. This goes for passengers as well.

  1. Watch closely for one-way signs. They are hard to spot and offenders are ticketed. If stopped, be respectful, apologize and the officer will take your fine to the police station for you.

  1. When renting a car try to avoid renting it more than a few hours before the trip. Renting too early will generally result in the vehicle being switched for a much older one. Be sure to wear a seat belt. Give only a copy of your passport if a guarantee is required.

  1. When renting a vehicle always confirm there is sufficient insurance. In the courts, accidents claims are always awarded to nationals if a foreigner is involved.

  1. Have adequate medical insurance in case of a health problem. Seek treatment at a reputable private hospital in Bangkok for serious conditions or elective surgery.

  1. Bottled water is a must for drinking and when brushing your teeth.

  1. Don’t forget to apply sun tan lotion. Even half an hour of unprotected exposure during the peak sunshine hours can result in serious burns.

  1. Be sure to wear insect repellent. Dengue fever and malaria are common diseases. Aids is rampant as well. Come prepared for any intimate activity with Western sized condoms. Bird Flu is a concern in Thailand so avoid proximity with live birds. Medical experts believe it is only contracted from exposure to the dust mites of live or recently slaughtered chickens.

  1. Drug possession in Thailand carries extremely harsh sentences. Be suspicious of anyone who asks you to transport articles. You could unknowingly be smuggling drugs.

Feel free to send me emails with your questions, comments and concerns and we will answer your emails as best we can.

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