Thailand is one of the easiest countries in the world to travel around — friendly, affordable, and endlessly fascinating. But a few key pieces of knowledge will make your trip significantly smoother. Here’s what we tell every new client.

1. Always Carry Small Notes

Street food vendors, tuk-tuks and temple entrance fees rarely accept cards. Keep a supply of ฿20, ฿50 and ฿100 notes — ATMs inside 7-Eleven charge the lowest fees for foreign cards (฿220 per transaction).

2. Download Grab

The Grab app works like Uber across all Thai cities. It shows you the price upfront, the driver’s rating, and eliminates the classic “negotiate before you get in” hassle with metered taxis. Essential for Bangkok.

3. Dress Respectfully at Temples

Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter any Buddhist temple. Many famous temples provide wraps at the entrance, but you may need to pay a small deposit. Lightweight linen trousers and a loose top are ideal.

4. The Heat Is Real

March–May temperatures regularly reach 38–40°C. Carry a reusable water bottle, drink constantly, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Air-conditioning in restaurants and malls is your friend.

5. Thai Food Has Hidden Chillis

If you have a low spice tolerance, always say “mai pet” (not spicy) when ordering. If you have food allergies — especially to nuts or shellfish — carry a Thai-language allergy card. We can provide one for our clients.

6. Respect the Monarchy

Thailand’s lèse-majesté laws are strictly enforced. Never speak critically about the royal family, even in private. The king’s image appears on currency — don’t step on a dropped coin or note.

7. Bargaining Is Expected at Markets — Not in Restaurants

Markets and tuk-tuks: bargain. Restaurants, convenience stores, malls: pay the listed price. A general rule: if there’s no price tag visible, negotiation is welcome.

8. Tipping Is Appreciated, Not Required

Leave ฿20–50 at local restaurants. Hotel housekeeping: ฿20–50 per day. Guides and drivers: ฿200–500 per day depending on how excellent they were. Tipping is a gesture of appreciation, not an obligation.

9. SIM Cards Are Cheap and Easy

Buy a tourist SIM at the airport from DTAC, AIS or True Move — around ฿299–399 for 30 days with 30 GB data. Register with your passport at the counter and you’ll have data immediately. Much better than international roaming.

10. Thai Time Is a Real Thing — Plan Buffers

Traffic in Bangkok is among the worst in the world. For early flights, leave 3 hours early. For meetings and tours, communicate your timeline clearly and build in a 15-minute buffer everywhere. Go with the flow — it’s Thailand.