Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
First Time Thailand
For more information, see
Survival Guide
Top Tips for Your Trip
»
Eat at the market or the street stalls for real Thai
grub.
Checklist
»
Make sure your passport is valid for at
least six months
»
Purchase your international and domest-
ic flight tickets
»
Apply for a tourist visa for visits longer
than 30 days from a Thai consulate
»
Organise travel insurance, diver's insur-
ance and international driving permit
»
Visit the doctor for a check-up and med-
ical clearance if you intend to scuba dive
»
Inform your bank and credit-card com-
pany of your travel plans
»
Hop aboard local transport. It is cheap and a great
way to hang out with the locals.
»
Rent a bicycle to tour towns and neighbourhoods.
»
Learn a few Thai phrases and always smile.
»
Avoid the first-timer scams: one-day gem sales in
Bangkok, insane transport prices, dodgy tailors.
»
Figure out how to bargain without being a jerk.
What to Pack
What to Wear
In general, light, loose-fitting clothes will prove the
most comfortable in the tropical heat. It's worth
bringing one jacket that can double as rain gear and
keep you warm in higher elevations and on air-condi-
tioned buses. When you visit temples, wear clothes
that cover to your elbows and knees. Bring a dress-up
outfit if you plan on clubbing in Bangkok or fine-din-
ing in Phuket.
»
Driving licence and international driv-
ing permit
»
Phrasebook
»
Power converter
»
GSM mobile phone and charger
»
A week's worth of lightweight clothes
»
Hat and sunglasses
»
Comfortable sandals
»
Earplugs
»
Rain gear and dry pack if travelling in
the rainy season
Sleeping
Finding a place to stay in Thailand is easy. For piece
of mind, book a room for your arrival night; after
that, you can wing it. Vacancies become scarce during certain holidays and peak travel
periods. Each destination gives advice on when bookings are recommended. See
Click here
for more accommodation information.
