Thailand - what to know before you go?

Monika J

4 days ago

5 min read

Thailand is one of those countries that can offer a little bit of everything: tropical beaches, green mountains, cities, quiet villages, colourful markets and some of the most memorable food experiences in Southeast Asia.

But before you pack your bags and head to Thailand, there are a few things worth knowing. From choosing the right season to understanding local customs, getting around and finding food that suits your needs, a little knowledge can make your journey much easier.

Remember you don't need to plan every single minute of your trip. I'm giving you a

heads-up about how to prepare and what to expect once you are there, because I want you to have a pleasant travel.

1) Flight ticket.

That’s the foundation, of course. How do I look for flights? It depends on the country you’re flying from. However, I always book tickets directly with the airline company rather than through agencies. That way, it’s much easier to sort things out if any problems arise.

2) Accommodation.

I wouldn't book accommodation for the entire duration of your stay. Of course, it depends on how long you plan to stay in Thailand and where you intend to go. Generally, however, it is worth booking accommodation so that you know where you’ll be staying upon arrival—you will need that address to fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, and you might also be asked for it during border control.

3) Documents.

Different country, different rules.

First of all check if your passport is valid for at least 6 months.

Once that is done check if you need visa to enter Thailand.

After complete Thailand Digital Arrival Card. https://tdac.immigration.go.th/arrival-card/#/home

Importantly, if you want to drive a vehicle in Thailand—or in Asia in general—make sure you have a valid International Driving Licence. It is required when renting a vehicle and during any potential police checks. You can apply for this document in your home country, and the cost is usually very low.

And last but not least is the Health Insurance. I will recommend you to have one. You never know what it may happen so it always better safe than sorry.

Have always copy of documents and addresses on paper. Because you phone may run out of battery plus you may not have internet upon arrival.

4) Internet.

Upon arrival, I went to the network operator True Move, which offered me a plan best suited to my needs. I had no issues with them. I paid my bills at 7-Eleven stores, but it is important to remember to visit a service centre before leaving to terminate the contract if you signed one. You can, of course, use a data plan from your home carrier, but in my case, that was too expensive.

5) Choose your season carefully.

As we know Asia has dry season and wet season. In Thailand, there is also a burning season.

You can find more information by clicking here.

In any case, the field-burning season in northern Thailand runs from January to roughly April—and frankly, you don’t want to be there during that time. The air is extremely polluted, smoke hangs constantly in the air, and many places worth visiting simply cannot be fully appreciated because of these fires. So the best period to go North of Thailand is from November till early January.

The rainy season lasts roughly from May to October and can be annoying. Rain might be pleasant for a day or two, but in the long run, it becomes tiresome.

The dry season lasts from November to May—specifically, until the beginning of May.

6) Carry cash and use card when convenient.

Cards are accepted in many hotels, larger restaurants and shops, but cash remains useful for markets, small eateries, local transport, homestays and rural areas.

I always carry some foreign currency for immediate needs, my local currency—to exchange when necessary—and a debit card to use while traveling.

So yes you need to have Thai Baht all the time with you.

7) 7 - Eleven stores become your friend.

Fortunately, there are plenty of 7-Eleven stores all over Thailand—sometimes you can even find them in places where you’d least expect them. More than once, a 7-Eleven literally saved my life. It became my best friend during my travels.

I’d pop in to cool off from the heat, grab a bite to eat and something to drink, and pick up all sorts of really fun items.

8) Protect yourself from tropical sun and mosquitoes.

Yes in Thailand you have mosquitoes and on top of that they are very cunning. You can't see them but you definitely can feel when they are eating you alive. So, make sure to get an effective mosquito repellent designed specifically for tropical countries.

Sun is extremely strong, have with you sunscreen with SPF30 or even higher. Try to avid sun in between 10-14 when the sun is most intense.

9) Be careful on the roads.

Scooters are common in Thailand, but they are not a risk-free way to explore.

Traffic can be challenging, particularly if you have never ridden a motorbike before.

Don't ride without the appropriate licence, insurance and safety equipment. Always wear a helmet, and never assume that your travel insurance covers riding a scooter.

Riding a scooter on a high way in Thailand is strictly prohibited.

10) Thai food is more than Pad Thai.

I hate to break it to you, but Pad Thai isn't an authentic Thai dish—its roots actually lie in China.

Pad See Ew is a more traditional dish than Pad Thai.

In any case, food is a key part of the Thai experience. Exploring local markets, small eateries, and fruit stalls is great fun, so it’s worth trying anything your diet allows.

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you’ll find suitable options, but keep in mind that fish sauce, oyster sauce, shrimp paste, or meat broths can turn up in dishes that look vegetarian at first glance.

It’s worth learning a few useful Thai phrases to explain your dietary requirements, and don’t assume that simply removing visible pieces of meat makes a dish vegetarian or vegan. It’s also handy to have some snacks with you for long journeys.

11) Respect local culture.

Thailand has its own cultural traditions, and small gestures of respect make a difference.

Dress modestly when visiting temples, covering your shoulders and knees where required.
Remove your shoes when requested.
Ask permission before photographing people in personal or religious settings.
Be respectful towards Buddha images and sacred places.
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy so treat the monarchy with respect and familiarise yourself with local laws.

12) Thailand is much more than beaches.

Don't limit your trip to Thailand only to the islands.

Of course, it all depends on what you're looking for, but I had a great time off the islands as well. Yes, the beaches are spectacular, but is another side of the country waiting to be explored.

Plenty of waterfalls, forests, some hiking opportunities around Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

Visit small towns, local markets and try to spend a few days away from the busiest tourists areas.

13) Cats in Thailand

Thai loves cats. Thai people love cats because they are deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions, spiritual beliefs, and national heritage. Cats are really seen as symbols of luck.

There are plenty of cats in Thailand, so make sure you like them before you go—and if you are allergic, bring the appropriate medication with you.

Remember plan enough your trip to feel comfortable, but leave room for some adventure.

Sometimes the places you remember most are the ones you never intended to visit.