Thailand is an amazing place to visit or live, but the uninitiated might run into a few hurdles on their first visit. Here are the Top 10 things to watch out for on your first trip to Thailand:
10. Extreme Weather
The weather here can be extreme, rain or shine!
Thai weather is very welcoming for some that come from colder climates around the world. The tropics can be an absolute blessing for vacationers who never want to see snow again in their life. It isn’t always that pleasant though as during some months Thai weather can get a bit extreme.
The hottest month in Thailand is in April which can get as hot as 40°C (104°F) in certain areas. It can get a bit cooler in May but that’s because the rains begin then. It progressively gets heavier in rainfall and eventually becomes monsoon season leading all the way up to October. Sometimes flooding occurs in Bangkok where water rises up to the knees.
Ways to avoid: Be aware of when you’re entering into the country and what season you’ll be encountering. Prepare items that help deal with extreme heat or extreme rainfall if you’re here during a period with severities in either.
9. Political Unrest
The friendly disagreements sometimes end up on the streets
There are times where politically, Thailand has been fairly unstable. This has led to massive protests that end up blocking the streets in the capital, Bangkok. Fortunately, the country has seen improvements in stability, hence the reason why this has fallen down the list.
Ways to avoid: Observe, but don’t partake. If there’s violence in an area, then avoid it at all costs.
8. Mosquitoes
These little biters can quickly ruin a vacation
These little buggers are plentiful, especially when you leave Bangkok and go into the outer provinces where infrastructure isn’t as well-developed. What would be an annoyance can potentially turn deadly as mosquitoes in certain parts carry Dengue Fever.
Ways to avoid: Check the news on what areas have Dengue outbreaks in them. That’ll give you an idea if mosquitoes in that particular area are carrying the virus. Wear mosquito repellent. Packets or sprays are cheap and can be found in any convenience store.
7. Local Authorities
Sometimes good help is hard to find
This is not to say that the cops in Thailand aren’t willing or capable to do their job. Sometimes it can be difficult to get help if something happens for a number of reasons. Thai police are reliant on translators due to the language barrier. Also they tend to be fairly underpaid, so don’t expect them to jump through hoops for you if you’re encountering any problems.
Ways to avoid: Thailand has different types of police. Tourist police can be contacted, separate to the police if you’re only here as a visitor. They’ll have a better command of English for communication. Call 1155 if you need help from the Tourist Police.
6. Dual Pricing
The price for me is not the same for thee
Don’t be surprised if you want to enter an attraction and see a different price for you compared to locals. Thailand practices dual pricing so you could see a 10x multiple on an attraction you may want to visit.
Ways to avoid: The only way to avoid paying a dual price is to be a Thai national. Either you pay the extra amount or you don’t go. Raising a fuss will not help your case.
5. Traffic Congestion
Not a bad time to take a nap
Thailand is absolutely famous for its ridiculously congested roads. There are times where you can end up being stuck on the road for hours just to travel a short distance. These usually occur during rush hour, (7-9AM, 4-7PM on weekdays), but you’ll have a slight reprieve on weekends.
Ways to avoid: Did you know that Thailand, especially Bangkok has several different options for public transport? Some of them are quite effective at helping you navigate around the city. Be sure to check our Top 10 ways to get around Bangkok here: https://bangkoktop10.com/top-10-ways-to-get-around-bangkok/
4. Scams
An experience you’ll want to forego
Scams happen worldwide and Thailand is no exception. Knowing and understanding what kinds of scams there are before entering a country is the best way to avoid them. Many scams in Thailand come from both local and foreigner alike, so don’t be too quick to trust non-locals here as sometimes their duplicity can be much worse than what’s coming from Thais.
Ways to avoid: Knowing is half the battle. Check out our Top 10 scams in Thailand to get an idea on what you could be up against: https://bangkoktop10.com/top-10-scams-in-thailand/
3. Language Barrier
Sorry, what was that?
Unfortunately the level of English in Thailand can be fairly low. Most Thais won’t be able to have a deep conversation with you in English. This applies to most sectors, so be prepared to have a back and forth where both parties are doing their best to understand each other.
Ways to avoid: If you’re in the tourist or hospitality sector then you’ll encounter this problem less, especially if the location you’re in is affluent. Otherwise, it helps to learn basic phrases in Thai. You can also hire a translator if necessary. If you’re trying to save on your trip, then just translate what you wish to say on an app and show it to the person you’re speaking to.
2. Food Allergies/Spicy Food
Oh boy does it burn
Thai food is world renowned. Chances are that if you come to Thailand then you’re here to try the authentic local fare. Do be warned that Thai food can be very spicy and that chefs and cooks here don’t believe that certain dishes can be tasty unless extremely spicy. Also be very careful with food allergies if you have any. Many Thai dishes use dairies, nuts, vegetable oils, etc.
Ways to avoid: If you’re eating out and something will make you very sick then it’s essential that you make sure this is translated to the person making your food. Have it translated on an app and show it to the wait staff, otherwise you’ll be in for a world of hurt.
1. Having Accidents without Insurance
The worst possible situation to be in
This is by far the worst possible situation to be in as a tourist in Thailand. You may want to have an adventure and possibly have rented a motorbike, or maybe you’re just riding one as a passenger. It could be any number of scenarios that you could be in, but whatever it is, you end up in the hospital, uninsured. Thai healthcare is amazing. Their hospitals are modern, the medical staff tend to have their fellowships abroad, and both private and public hospitals can provide top notch care. Thai medical care is also more affordable than many places around the world. However, the fees that you can be accruing do add up. Major surgeries are also still very expensive, and being an in-patient will can put you in a situation where you see a six figure hospital bill.
Ways to avoid: GET INSURED BEFORE COMING TO THAILAND. This cannot be stressed enough. You don’t want to have to burden your family, or start a GoFundMe due to some unfortunate accident.
