Simply the thought of traveling to Bangkok is enough to give the avid travelers the kind of adrenaline rush they are looking for. There is no denying that Bangkok is one of the most visited countries in the world, and the demand for cheap flights to Bangkok is always rising. Recent statistics show that about 35 million tourists arrive here every year. After all, there are attractions for every kind of tourist as the city boasts of bustling markets, cultural monuments, religious sites, and of course, great food.
If you are visiting Bangkok for the first time, here are some essential things that you need to know.
- In order to travel to Thailand, you need a valid passport and a visa on arrival that allows you to stay for 30 days. Book Thai airways flight tickets well in advance.
- The best time to visit Bangkok is between December and April. You can also go during the other months but can avoid July to October as it is the rainy season.
- Thai Baht is the local currency used, and 1 US dollar is about 30 Thai Baht. Always use the local currency, and it is best to change the US dollar into Thai Baht.
- When visiting Thailand, pack light cotton clothes, flipflops, beachwear, and lots of sunscreen. Do not forget to pack bug spray.
- Make sure you have standard vaccinations for Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Measles before you go on a Thailand vacation.
- Although English is widely spoken and understood in Bangkok, it is a good idea to learn a few Thai words anyway, such as common greetings and thanks and some more.
- The BTS Subway and MRT public transportation are fast, cheap, convenient, and as they are easy to use, you should certainly make good use of them.
- Go for tuk-tuks as they are cheaper and offer better views of the city. However, at night, prefer taxis as they are safer. Do not hire taxis that are without their meters as this is an easy way to get overcharged in a taxi in Bangkok.
- If interested in gambling, keep in mind that it is permitted on certain days. So be aware of the days when you can gamble safely.
- Dress modestly when you visit temples and religious sites such as wats, monasteries, palaces. Cover your elbows and knees properly as a sign of respect, and do not forget to take off your shoes before entering any religious place.
- Be wary of that best-dressed and ladyboy woman on the train or on the bus as it is most likely that she may be a ladyboy.
- When you speak of the late King of Thailand, show full respect as he is nothing less than a God for Thai people. He enjoyed the longest-reigning rule in the world and was mourned for one year in the country.
- As popular beer brands in Bangkok also make bottled water, you need to clarify as to if you want Chang beer or Chang water.
- Try to eat as many mangoes as you can as the mangoes in Thailand are considered to be the most delicious in the world.
- If you eat directly off a fork, it is considered to be rude. So, try to eat with a spoon and avoid the fork.
- Although people in Bangkok are warm and friendly and always smile at you, do not make the mistake of touching them on the head.
- Every country and city has certain safety issues, and Bangkok is no different. Still, that doesn’t make it an unsafe city, and it offers a safe environment for tourists. Still, use your common sense to be safe at all times.
