Out of all regions in Asia, Thailand is the most popular. It makes total sense: this country has delicious food, gorgeous sights, and some of the friendliest locals. The cost of travel here is also very affordable. So, it seems like all you have to do is pack your bags, grab a ticket, and leave.
Yet, it’s important to learn some travel basics before you do so. Best travel times, connectivity, transportation, etiquette, and more can raise questions when you are visiting Thailand for the first time. Here’s what you should expect and prepare in advance.
Before You Depart
If you live where winter is really cold, Thailand can become your haven. Local winter, from November to February, is the best time to visit! The weather is dry, compared to the usual dampness and moisture, and the temperatures are just perfect. Although it’s warm all year round, winter is still recommended for newbie visitors.
93 country residents can go to Thailand without a Visa — most will get a special tourist stamp that lets them stay there for 60 days, which is more than enough. You can also go to other countries nearby and then return for a new stamp, in case you’re going on a full Asia vacation or plan to work remotely.
You will most likely arrive at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang Airport, or Phuket Airport on the island of Phuket. There, you can either get a local card or buy a suitable eSIM plan in advance. The latter is often cheaper and more practical, as you don’t have to switch out cards and easily turn on a different plan when changing the region.
Local Transportation
Transport in Thailand is fairly easy to understand. Trains are perfectly comfortable for trips to the south and north, and you can sleep in a berth there. Buses run daily and nightly, with tickets available even at the last minute, but you have to go to the bus station or find a reputable third-party website to get one. The whole country is connected through low-cost flights, too, including offshore islands. Additionally, you can reach them via ferries or boats.
In the cities, taxis, shared rides, buses, and tuk-tuks are common. Even the countryside is easily reachable, as long as you’re able to communicate with the locals, whether in English or through translation apps.
Customs and Cultural Etiquette
Thailand’s culture is very prominent everywhere you go, but the locals are very tolerant towards tourists. Still, it’s essential to know the local customs and etiquette to avoid misunderstandings. Mainly, you have to respect Buddhism and the monarchy: do not touch or point at the statues or imagery.
The head is believed to be the most sacred part of the body, while the feet are the complete opposite. So, don’t touch people on the head or use your feet to do anything, such as pointing or picking things up. Cover your shoulders and knees when you’re at the temple and avoid revealing clothing.
Climate and Weather Changes
The local weather can be moody outside of the “winter” we’ve already mentioned. The usual summer from March to June is also pretty dry, but can become humid and very hot — perfect for swimming and cocktails. It’s the hottest in April, and even the locals avoid being outside that much. June to October is rainy and wet, with warm temperatures. Stay aware of the smoggy season between January and March.
Safety Awareness
Thailand is extremely safe, but petty crime is apparent. It’s mostly just annoying — financial scams are common, so avoid unsolicited advice and stay clear of transportation detours. If you rent a scooter or a motorcycle, wear protective gear and stay very cautious on the road because crashes happen very often and can leave you seeking medical attention.
Connection
Wi-Fi and 4G/5G networks are all over the country, so you won’t have any problems connecting there. However, it is recommended that you get the best eSIM for Thailand to make sure you can handle navigation and bookings smoothly. This way, you also avoid paying extra for roaming charges or staying disconnected until you arrive at the hotel. In case you want to get a local physical card, expect the seller to ask for your passport.
Ready for the Thailand Trip
Thailand is extremely welcoming to tourists all over the world, but you have to know the local travel basics to stay comfortable and safe there. By following the guide above, you can ensure that you are truly ready for anything during your vacation.
