Last Updated on April 12, 2022
If you’re arriving in Thailand soon, I’m super jealous right now. Thailand has been one of my favorite destinations I’ve traveled to. Though, there are some things you need to know for when you arrive in Thailand to make sure you start your trip off on the right foot.
Don’t drink the water
After a long flight, the first thing most travelers need to do is hydrate and freshen up. Don’t plan on filling your water bottle up in the sink or brushing your teeth. Use a water-refill station or purchase a bottle of water. Locals do not even consume the water in Thailand. Most mid to upscale hotels will provide water bottles at no cost for bathroom use and drinking.
Get cash at the airport
Many places only take cash, or it is much easier (and safer) to use. Get enough out but not too much that you have a lot of cash on you. ATMs are readily available around the city, but much harder to find when going off-the-beaten-path.
Get a SIM Card
Even if trying to go off-the-grid on your fantastic Thailand getaway, it’s always a good idea to get a SIM card – even with just a little data to get you by in an emergency. Make sure your phone is unlocked prior to traveling. This may take some time, so plan ahead.
I found TrueMove to work just fine for my trip. The service was a bit slow in Bangkok, but everywhere else was great. They had a variety of packages from a little data to unlimited data at reasonable prices.
Other services available for SIM Cards are through DTAC and AIS.
Depart from the Domestic Terminal
When leaving the airport upon arriving, you are most likely in the International terminal. Walk to the other end of the airport (only about a 5-minute walk if arriving in Chiang Mai) to where the Domestic terminal is (this may be more difficult to do if arriving in Bangkok). Cab prices are a bit cheaper over here, as opposed to the cab drivers taking advantage of the newcomer foreigners. Make sure, wherever you’re getting transportation from in Thailand, to negotiate a price beforehand or ask the cab to use the meter.
Be Mindful of Thai Culture
It’s difficult to grasp a new culture all at once, so being mindful and just going with the flow of things is the best approach. A few things to keep in mind from the get-go:
Greetings:
When being greeted by someone, you will see them bow to you and say hello in Thai. This is called a “wai”, pronounced “why”. You should return the greeting by bringing your palms together at your chest and bowing your head (your nose should touch your index fingers). At this time, you will also return the hello by saying, Sawasdee, pronounced like sah-wah-dee. This can get more complicated based on male or female, but this should help for starters.
Entering buildings:
Wearing shoes inside is seen as dirty. Plan to take your shoes off before entering shops, your hotel’s reception, homes, temples, and more. In more touristy areas, this is not as big of a deal in some places. The best rule thumb is to look at the entrance. If there are other shoes outside the door, you should take your shoes off.
Find other tips about Thai Culture here.
Read about my adventures in Thailand!
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