Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Confirming Reservations
It is a good idea to email or call the hotel to confirm your reservation before you ar-
rive. Also, if the hotel or travel company has provided you with a confirmation num-
ber, you should keep this information handy. Upscale hotels are usually as reliable as
hotels in the west, but smaller guesthouses can sometimes be less organized.
Street Food
Thailand's street food enjoys a reputation as being one of the most delicious in the
world. The food is spicy, sour, tangy, and sweet, and is often prepared in just a few
minutes, and to top it all, it is incredibly cheap and very hygienic.
Sharing Dishes
Thai food is best eaten when shared by two or more people, with each person getting
his or her own plate of rice. This allows diners to sample many different flavors and
textures. Thai salads and soups are usually eaten along with main dishes, a bite of
one followed by a bite of another.
Vegetarians
Contrary to the food served in Thai restaurants in the West, many of which highlight
vegetarian options, the food in Thailand generally includes some sort of meat - most
often pork, chicken, or beef. The Thai word for vegan is
ahaan-jay
, and for a veget-
arian who eats eggs it is
mahngsawirat
. Food can usually also be specially prepared
according to your needs.
Eating Utensils
Most Thai food is eaten with a spoon and fork, with the fork being used to guide food
on to the spoon. Chopsticks and soupspoons are used for noodle soups. Thai restaur-
ants can also provide knives if needed.
