Little
knowledge can lead to a big problem. It is essential that one be aware of
the rules and regulations, social and etiquette norms of the country one is
visiting. Here are some useful tips for the tour of Thailand. One would find
them to be of great help.How To Act
» Thailand is a Buddhist country. Don't show disrespect to any object connected to the religion.
» Thais hold their king, queen and royal family members in great reverence. Be careful not to show contempt towards them.
» Sacrilegious acts are punishable under Thai law, even if the perpetrator is a foreigner.
» Dress decently when entering a Buddhist temple. Take your footwear off.
» The female should be careful not to deal directly with a Buddhist monk.
» Refrain from touching any adult on the head. Thais consider head the noblest part of the body (spiritually) and would not appreciate your act.
» Don't put your feet on chairs, ledges etc to relax. Thais would consider it inappropriate.
» Intimacies between opposite sexes should not be shown in public.
» Sunbathing in nude is on the wrong side of the law. Keep away from it.
» Not be overzealous to shake hands with the Thais while meeting them.
With Children
» Tell your children not to approach dogs, monkeys or other animals, for they are not as friendly as the Thais.
» Give frequent handwash to your children. This would help them keeping away from stomach bugs.
While Travelling
» Make full use of sun blocks, hats and glasses.
» Avoid eating anything that hasn't been boiled or fried.
» Buy sealed, bottled water. It is better to buy ice that is manufactured in factory.
» Don't take eatables or drinks offered by strangers or taxi drivers.
» Don't accept tours offered by strangers. Make sure that you avail of the services of a registered travel agency.
Shopping
» Bargaining is a norm in Thailand. So don't hesitate to ask for a proper discount.
» Departmental stores have fixed prices.
» Deal carefully with sidewalk vendors who may not offer genuine goods at fair prices.
» Ask for receipts for the goods you buy. While purchasing jewelry you must get a certificate for guarantee.
» Determine all conditions with shopkeepers before accepting money-back guarantee offers.
Tipping
Tipping need not be given except in the big hotels of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket. Even here, tipping is not necessary if the bill incorporates the service charge.
Checking E-mail
» You can access your Internet account through cyber cafes in all popular tourist destinations.
» Mail can also be checked at the main post offices.
» International roaming access can be availed from the local service provider on reasonable rates.
Clothing
» Loose and light clothes are best in the tropical climate.
» Sweaters are needed in hilly regions during winters.
» Appropriate dress is required at certain entertainment and dining establishments.
Medical Services
Medical services are easily available in all tourism destinations and provincial capitals.
Public Holidays
| Occasion | English Name | Date | Remark |
| Wan Khun Pee Mai | New Year Day | January 1 | |
| Magha Bucha | Magha Puja | February (date varies) | Buddhist holiday, based on lunar calendar |
| Chinese New Year | March (date varies) | Celebrated in chinatowns, not a national holiday, though some private offices can remain closed | |
| Chakri Day | April 1 | Commemorates establishment of current dynasty | |
| Songkran | Thai New Year | April13-15 | Water festival, most popular festival |
| Visakha Bucha | Vesak | May (date varies) | Buddhist holiday, based on lunar calendar |
| Royal Ploughing Ceremony | May | Only Government holiday | |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Only Bank holiday | |
| Coronation Day | May 5 | Remembering the crowning of current king | |
| Asanha Bucha | Aslha Puja | July (date varies) | Buddhist holiday, base on lunar calendar |
| Khao Phansa | Vassa | July (date varies) | Buddhist holiday, based on lunar calendar |
| Mid Year Day | July 1 | Only bank holiday | |
| Wan Piyamaharat | Chulalongkorn Day | October 23 | Anniversary of King Chulalongkorn's death |
| Father's Day | December 5 | Current king's birthday | |
| Constitution Day | December 10 | Commemorates the change to constitutional monarchy | |
| New Year's Eve | December 31 |
