After living in Bangkok for more than four years and visiting regularly for a decade, I’ve picked up a number of Thailand travel tips. If it’s your first time visiting the Land of Smiles, rest assured that traveling here is largely a breeze. After decades as one of the most popular destinations in the world, the nation boasts a well-developed infrastructure for travelers.
No matter what you’re looking for, Thailand will have it. From dazzling temples like Wat Arun in Bangkok to the white-sand beaches of Koh Samui, this nation has both a deep culture and exquisite beauty. It’s also generally a very safe and welcoming destination, even as a solo traveler.
Here are some of my tips for traveling in Thailand.
Be Careful to Avoid Scams
Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok
Thailand is generally very safe, but it does have a number of scammers who prey on unsuspecting travelers. Spend enough time near Wat Phra Kaew—the Temple of the Emerald Buddha—and other main Bangkok attractions, and various “tour guides” will approach you. Many claim to offer tuk-tuk tours of popular attractions. While these are not dangerous, these “guides” tend to demand a very heavily inflated price at the end of the drive.
Unlicensed cab drivers are another common pitfall that catches many travelers off-guard, particularly at the airport. Bangkok’s legitimate taxis are easy to spot, thanks to their eye-catching hues.
The city cabs range from green and yellow to bright orange or hot pink. Only accept rides from official taxis and be sure that the cab driver starts the meter when you get in.
Learn a Few Phrases in Thai
Grand Palace, Bangkok
One of the best things I did in Bangkok was to hire a language tutor. I never managed to become fluent, but it changed my relationship to the city. Having lived in a number of countries, I’ve noticed that not every nationality is thrilled with newcomers mangling their language. But I was amazed at how enormously patient people in Bangkok were, even when I made mistakes.
To be clear, it’s perfectly possible to travel around the country if you don’t speak Thai. Most locals speak at least some English and Google Translate can fill in any gaps. But even a few phrases can really streamline ordering food, taxis, and other things. More importantly, people will be appreciative that you made the effort.
Take a Ride Through Bangkok’s Khlongs
Chao Phraya River, Bangkok
Bangkok is a city built on waterways. The largest, of course, is the Chao Phraya River, sometimes referred to as the “River of Kings,” but it’s hardly the only one.
More than 2,000 khlongs, or canals, run throughout the city in an intricate network. Historically, these were the main thoroughfares of the city, transporting food and goods throughout the landscape.
Although relatively few international travelers use them, the khlongs still exist. They also provide an incredibly affordable, efficient means of getting around. A khlong water taxi neatly bypasses all of the traffic jams for just a few baht. Along the way, you’ll pass through less gentrified neighborhoods of the city that have retained much of their historic character.
Get Travel Insurance
Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok
I would strongly recommend travel insurance for just about any international destination not covered by your regular health insurance. You need to be covered for everything from sickness to loss of luggage.
If you do need medical care, Thailand has some of the best hospitals in Southeast Asia, if not the world, but they’re mostly clustered in the capital. Bumrungrad International Hospital and Samitivej Hospital both feature JCI accredited doctors and English-speaking staff. While both are cheaper than, say, a hospital bill in the United States, you can still rack up a serious bill without insurance.
Street Food Is Where It’s At
Thai street food
One of the reasons so many visitors fall in love with Thailand is its absolutely incredible food. Dining here runs the gamut from lavish tasting menus to mom-and-pop shophouse restaurants. You can eat fabulously at all price points here, but as just about any Thai will tell you, much of the best food is found on the street. Trying it is one of my top Thailand travel tips.
Many of Thailand’s most famous street food stalls have been in the same families for generations. A few sport Michelin stars these days, although there are plenty of outstanding ones that do not. Most vendors run a tight ship here, which extends to hygiene standards. Everything, including the fresh-cut fruit, is very safe to eat.
Yaowarat, Bangkok
Both Bangkok and Phuket have highly diverse street food scenes. Although the Thai government has removed hawkers from many areas of Bangkok, there are still strong pockets.
Head to Yaowarat Road and the area around Chinatown for one of the largest concentrations. Phuket also has an absolutely incredible array of street food. Keep an eye out for bowls of khanom jeen, rice vermicelli, paired with aromatic curries and fresh herbs.
Wake Up Early
Lumpini Park, Bangkok
Although I’m not a morning person by nature, when I lived in Bangkok, I got in the habit of going for early runs in Lumpini Park. Part of what I loved about the routine is that I’d see a different side of the city than you’d catch when the sun was at its zenith.
By 7 a.m., street food vendors were already busy serving moo ping—grilled pork, kai jeow —fried omelet, and other dishes. The park was already full of groups practicing tai chi or cycling in the early morning cool.
Thailand’s community-oriented street life has always been an important part of the city and, understandably, it peaks when the heat and humidity levels are low. This extends to the islands, even though their climate tends to be milder throughout the day.
If you’re looking to check out one of the local markets, be sure to get there before noon. Many vendors often pack up for the day in the early afternoon.
Travel Ethically
Pattaya Elephant Village
As with any country, it’s important to consider just where your tourism dollars are going. If you’d like to spend time with elephants, for instance, choose your tour operator with care. Never accept elephant rides or work with an operator promoting them.
In recent decades, growing awareness of animal rights has led to a rise in ethical elephant sanctuaries within the country. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary on the border of Khao Prae Teao National Park offers retired working elephants the chance to live out their days in peace.
Samui Elephant Sanctuary on Koh Samui holds similarly high standards. In both places, visitors can bathe, feed, or walk with these intelligent pachyderms with a clean conscience.
Thailand Travel FAQs
What should I know before traveling to Thailand?
Grand Palace, Bangkok
It’s impossible to see all of this culturally and geographically diverse nation in just one trip. Just accept the fact that you’re going to want to return before your visit.
What should I avoid doing in Thailand?
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Thailand has a strict code of etiquette and one of my top Thailand travel tips is to familiarize yourself with the basics. Treat the image of Buddha with respect; don’t wear T-shirts with a Buddha face on them, or climb on Buddha statues.
Never, ever under any circumstances insult the king or the Thai monarchy. Doing so is punishable by up to 15 years in prison under the Thai “Lèse-majesté” law. Offenses can range from defamatory social media posts to comments said in passing.
Is Thailand safe for solo travelers?
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Yes! In fact, I first went to Thailand as a solo traveler—and I loved it so much I wound up moving there. As a woman traveling alone, I almost never felt unsafe and I experienced significantly less harassment in Bangkok than I have in many Western cities.
That said, as with any destination, it pays to exercise basic common sense. Keep your valuables in a zipped bag or pocket close to your body. If you’re walking alone at night, stick to well-lit areas with other people around.
Also, while not necessarily unsafe, Bangkok and Phuket do have a few seedier areas. The red light districts and areas surrounding Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy, and Patpong can get a bit dodgy after dark, as can the fringes of Khao San Road. If you’re passing through one of these, pay extra attention to your belongings.
What are the best ways to get around Thailand?
Bangkok
Thailand has a well-developed rail system, complete with sleeper cars for long journeys. Alternatively, internal flights are both affordable and readily available. When it comes to navigating the islands that Thailand is known for, local ferries and charter boats can easily help you hop.
What should I pack for a trip to Thailand?
Wat Arun, Bangkok
Pack breathable clothing that will be comfortable to wear even on humid days. Counterintuitive though it might seem, throw a cardigan in your bag. Even when the weather outside is brutally hot, Bangkok’s indoor spaces remain air-conditioned to an arctic chill.
After that, what goes in your carry-on depends largely on which parts of the country you plan to visit and the type of vacation you’re looking for.
If you plan on lounging on a beach in Koh Samui, you need little more than your bathing suit and beach gear. If you’re looking to rock climb on limestone karsts on the islands near Phuket, bring appropriate shoes.
Sunscreen
Bug spray is always a good idea here, especially during the rainy season. You’re also going to want sunscreen that’s SP30 or higher to protect you from the powerful UV rays. Especially when you’re enjoying a cool breeze by the beach, you may not realize how strong the sun is. Nothing ruins a vacation like getting a sunburn on day one.
Khao San Road, Bangkok
Finally, if you’re planning on spending time in Bangkok, do yourself a favor and pack some dressier clothes. Yes, you’ll see plenty of backpackers around Khao San Road wearing souvenir T-shirts, fisherman pants, and flip-flops. Those are generally fine on the islands, but dress like that in the city and you’ll stick out like a sore thumb.
A number of the city’s best restaurants and bars have dress codes too, so it pays to throw at least one nice outfit in your luggage.
Are there any more etiquette tips travelers should know?
Market in Bangkok
Thailand is a nation that rewards politeness and friendliness—which extends to visitors as well as locals. In short, being rude will get you nowhere here. While international travel and navigating a language barrier can be frustrating, resist the urge to lash out verbally at anyone.
Overly confrontational behavior—say, yelling at a cab driver—will just make everyone feel uncomfortable. Be as polite and gracious as possible and others will extend the same courtesy in return.
This extends to haggling too. Negotiating the price of goods in Bangkok markets like MBK or Chatuchak Weekend Market is considered common practice. In some countries, aggressive bargaining tactics are rewarded and even encouraged. Thailand is not one of them. If a vendor does not want to budge, either pay the agreed upon rate or politely walk away.
Tuk-tuk
You should also be prepared to negotiate motorbike taxi and tuk-tuk rides. That said, there’s a reason Bangkokians talk about “farang pricing”—essentially a higher rate for foreigners. While some tourists get upset about this, it’s better just to accept the modest price hike. The daily minimum wage in Bangkok is 372 baht, or around US$12. The rationale is most international travelers can afford to pay a bit more.
Excessive or sustained eye-contact is considered rude in Thailand. That doesn’t mean you can’t look at people while speaking, but avoid prolonged stares. Don’t be offended if someone seems to be avoiding your gaze, as it’s not personal.
Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok
Finally, watch where you put your feet. In Thailand, feet are considered the lowest part of the body, which means you should never point them at anyone or put them up on furniture.
Also, be prepared to remove your shoes when entering private homes or religious spaces. Wear nice socks or make sure your bare feet are presentable. If you can, try to sneak in a pedicure before your visit or while in Bangkok.
Bangkok
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