Thailand is the ideal starting point for travellers who want to discover South East Asia without having much travel experience.
The kingdom has a wide variety of landscapes depending on the region, beautiful islands, numerous beaches, mountains, lively cities with eye-catching bars and markets, spectacular palaces and temples, and much more.
Known for its friendly people and abundant sights and attractions, Thailand has long been a favourite destination for travellers.
But before you start your trip to Thailand, take a look at these tips for first-time travellers for a stress-free trip.
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1. Do not hesitate to smile
Thailand is known as the land of smiles and smiling travellers are very popular.
So please bring your best smile and respond to the many smiles you will receive.
See : Why is Thailand called the land of smiles?
2. Learn some Thai words
Knowing how to say at least hello and thank you in the local language is always appreciated, no matter which country you visit.
In Thai it is :
Hello =
Sawat dii khrap (if you are a man)
Sawat dii khaa (if you are a woman)
Thank you =
khop khoun khrap (if you are a man)
khop khoun khaa (if you are a woman)
To learn more, see :
Thai language, the minimum vocabulary to know on your first trip
3. Dress appropriately, especially in temples
Tourists visit the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun, in Bangkok. Photo: Somchai Poomlared - Bangkok Post
Light clothing is frowned upon in Thailand, whether you are a man or a woman.
This is especially true when visiting temples and other devotional sites, and when travelling in rural areas.
When visiting a temple, remember to respect tradition by wearing clothes that cover the knees and shoulders.
Some temples provide clothing for foreigners who are too light to enter.
4. Be prepared for mosquito bites
Mosquitoes are widespread in Thailand, especially during the rainy season.
It is recommended that travellers carry repellent, which is readily available in many shops in Thailand, but for more sophisticated products it is best to order them before departure.
See : Natural anti-mosquito remedies: 8 methods to protect yourself
Mosquitoes bite mainly between dusk and dawn.
Mosquito-borne diseases are a real problem, so limit your exposure.
In addition, wearing long trousers and long sleeves keeps you cooler than wearing shorts and protects you from the sun and insects.
5. Pay attention to footwear customs
When visiting temples, many shops and private residences, it is mandatory for visitors to remove their shoes before entering.
You can tell by the shoes at the entrance.
See : Do's and don'ts in Thailand, the things you need to know
That's why it's better to walk around in easy-to-remove flip-flop style shoes rather than lace-up shoes.
You will find a wide variety of good quality and affordable flip-flops and sandals in the country.
6. Beware of scammers
View from the back seat of a tuk tuk. Photo: The thaiger
Thailand is a safe country, but beware of scams, especially in very touristy areas.
Travellers are therefore advised to be attentive and aware of their surroundings.
One example of a scam in Thailand is the pricing of "Tuk Tuk", a popular means of transport in the country.
When it comes to tuk-tuk, travellers should be on the lookout for scams.
If a price seems too good to be true, it is almost certainly a scam, as it means that they will escort travellers to perfume shops, antique shops, jewellery shops and any other establishment where they can persuade them to make a purchase.
Tuk-tuk drivers are paid by the shops they visit.
So they take the travellers all over the city, except to the place they originally requested.
See : Scams in Thailand: know them and protect yourself
7. Thinking of a souvenir? Beware of Buddha statues
Buddha images are everywhere in Thailand, and travellers are often tempted to take one home.
However, it is officially forbidden to take Buddha images or statues out of the country, especially antiques, unless you have applied for and obtained official permission.
This does not prevent many tourists from bringing them back, but you have to be aware of the ban.
8. Pay in cash
Thai coins. Photo: Anan
Although the pandemic has changed things somewhat, Thailand remains a cash society, with the exception of high-end restaurants, shopping centres and hotels.
Using a credit card to buy something at the market is a real waste of time.
Many restaurants and local attractions, as well as small accommodation establishments, only accept cash as payment.
ATMs can be found in even the most remote locations, but if a traveller intends to visit a remote location or an island, it is a good idea to stock up on cash before leaving.
It is also a good idea to carry small notes and coins for low-value transactions, as small traders and taxi drivers rarely have much change.
See : Money in Thailand, bringing cash or withdrawing from ATMs: solutions
9. Watch out for scooters
Although many visitors to Thailand choose to explore the country by scooter, it may not be the wisest choice.
If you are not already experienced in riding a motorbike, or are not used to riding on the left-hand side of the road, it is best to avoid it for your own safety.
Thai roads are particularly dangerous and road accidents are common.
You need to have good insurance, but you also need an international motorbike licence, because otherwise the insurance will not cover you in case of an accident.
See : 10 tips for riding a motorbike in Thailand
10. Know when to use the "Wai".
The "wai" is the traditional greeting in Thailand, where people politely greet others by bowing their heads and holding both hands together.
In fact, when they meet someone, they always greet them in this way, and therefore always return the courtesy with a smile.
The wai is also a way of expressing thanks and gratitude.
See : Learn to make wai in Thailand
See also :
Preparing your trip to Thailand: the complete guide
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