Thailand is by far one of the most beautiful places we have been both in terms of beauty and culture. There are many tips I can advise of but I wanted to keep it short and simple and just give the main tips when travelling around this gorgeous country.
Here we go…
1. Learn basic language
I think this tip is of no surprise but none the less very important. Making the effort goes a long way.
Personally, I used YouTube as a platform and learned a new phrase every couple of days and tried to implement it at every opportunity. You might get blank faces at first and they may even laugh at you but don’t take this as an insult in any way. Thai people massively respect you trying to learn their language as many tourists can be ignorant and expect locals to understand English at the very least. If you don’t get it right they will help you and will definitely help you expand. I found using my basic Thai at markets the most rewarding. The stall owners are super friendly and once you start trying to communicate they will understand that you are doing just that ‘trying’. You will then be able to point at things and they will relay that object in Thai. Using street markets as a basis to learn the language actually benefits you more than you think as you will find markets common place across the country.
2. Don’t exchange all your cash at once
The reason this tip is here is because it was the mistake we made whilst travelling. Noobs!
We have all heard the warning “don’t exchange money at the airport!” well, it’s true. Obviously you will need money for initial purposes (food, accommodation, drinks) but keep it minimal. Based on my experience I would exchange GBP 100 per person from any local currency exchange in your town. This would get you approximately 4000 baht to start your travels with. I appreciate you don’t want to travel around with loads of cash on you and would prefer to withdraw from the ATM but it comes at a cost of 220 baht per transaction. It doesn’t seem much at first but it can really add up. So, when you are travelling around keep your eyes peeled for currency exchange stalls. If you go to heavy tourist areas then you will find similar, if not worse, exchange rates than the airports. However, if you travel through rural areas that have minimal tourism then you will find much better exchange rates. Planning where to exchange money is beneficial but also difficult because if you are like us then you decide on your next location as and when. Keep in mind what the exchange rate was when you left your country so you have an idea what is good/bad.
3. Stay in mixed dorm hostels
I am well aware that you won’t be staying in 5* hotels but a lot of people tend to overlook mixed dorms. They will look at single rooms with own bathroom, air con, double bed etc. If you can afford that then that is fine but comes at a social cost that you just can’t buy.
Whilst travelling one of the biggest positives are the people you meet. Sometimes unexpectedly but mostly it is the people that you share a room with. Remember, most people are in the same situation as you in that room and will be able to share knowledge, advice and sometimes the obligatory travel horror story! You will be able to go out as a group and enjoy the day/night together and you will have that safety in numbers aspect too. Don’t get me wrong you will meet some odd people in dorms and some rude people too but that is part of the travelling package.
I have to admit that I was a little skeptical about leaving my rucksack under the bed as most hostels don’t provide a locker big enough. However, there is a mutual respect amongst everybody in that room (even the odd/rude people). Nobody touches anything that isn’t theirs. I can honestly say that after nearly 2 years of travelling I have not had a single issue with my belongings. I would, however, definitely advise buying the small locks for rucksacks for safety measures.
4. Use all modes of transport and explore
What you will quickly realize in Thailand is that there are many modes of transport available. It can be quite overwhelming at times so here is a quick breakdown for you.
Motorbikes are the most common way of travelling around. You can rent a motobike for as little as 250 baht for the whole day. You may need to hand over your passport as an insurance that you will bring the bike back but very simple process.
Songthaew is a great way of getting around a local area. You will see these everywhere. Basically, it is a truck that has been converted in to a passenger wagon. Many locals use this as it is very frequent and only costs 20 baht per person regardless of your final stop.
Minibuses are the best way to travel long distances quickly. Price will vary depending on the destination you require but I am always pleasantly surprised. Every town or city has a station/terminal for minibuses. Typically, they can fit between 10-12 people but can get cramped when you realise that there is little space for luggage as well. (A little tip if you use the minibus. Always try and sit at the front. It can get bumpy at the back.)
Coaches are similar to minibuses in terms of travelling long distances. However, they take much longer but are very cheap. It is a sacrifice you will have to make but it is worth it. One aspect that gets overlooked is the scenery that you witness whilst travelling coach. Most long distance coaches are very clean, comfy and calm. You will have regular pit stops for food and drinks and will most likely have a film to watch on the way.
5. Enjoy the culture and be nice!
‘Mai pen rai’ is the phrase of Thailand. It means don’t worry about anything, no problem, it is what it is. Thai people are amongst the friendliest in the world so enjoy their culture. It is called the ‘land of smiles’ for a reason.
I have learned to say ‘yes’ more in Thailand so I would advise you to do the same. Thai people are always very welcoming so if they offer to do something for you then accept, gratefully. Try the street food! It is some of the best food in the world and is very cheap compared to the restaurants. They will always serve decent portions too. Finally, don’t be scared to ask anything of anybody. People will always try to help you in this country which I found a welcome change. You will quickly conclude that this is a happy country built on principles we can all learn from.
Joe Wood
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