Thailand Travel and Health Tips
Travel and Health Tips for Thailand
Thailand is an open country with a well-developed infrastructure, well-maintained roads, and excellent public transport facilities. Be it by bus, train, minivan, or plane, you will never struggle to reach any province within Thailand. Thai people are frequent travelers and will happily travel long distances to visit their relatives or visit temples in regions hundreds of km away.
Transportation Options in Thailand
Traveling by train or bus is considerably cheaper than flying; however, the journey will be substantially longer. Going from the Northernmost part of Thailand to the Southernmost part on a bus or train will take around 24 hours of non-stop travel.
Make the same journey by plane, which will take 1-2 hours; however, the flight cost can be 2-3 times the cost of the bus or train.
Buses in Thailand
Buses come in a variety of classes! Very cheap buses don't have air conditioning and are typically crowded. I recommend booking a first-class or VIP bus to have a toilet and air conditioning throughout the journey. Some bus companies also give you a snack box and a cold towel to wipe yourself down. They stop halfway through the ride and provide you with a coupon to eat some food and drink some water, all included in the ticket price.
Taxis in Thailand
Taxis are usually only found in large provinces; they are always brightly colored and have fare meters. If you ever get in a cab and the driver doesn't turn on the meter, politely ask them to switch it on; if they refuse, get out. If you book a taxi through a hotel, an extra charge can sometimes be added, and it can be more convenient but also more expensive. Sometimes going outside the hotel to hail a cab can save you $10 (USD); however, you must explain where you want to go to the driver. In contrast, the hotel receptionist will handle all that for you!
Tuk-Tuks in Thailand
Tuk-Tuks are an 'Icon" of Thailand and can be found in many provinces, especially tourist spots. Tuk-Tuks are motorized tricycles and have a roof but no windows. They are very loud and are open to the weather, pollution, and insects; however, they can be a lot of fun. Many Tuk-Tuk drivers decorate their rides with lights and other types of bling to attract more customers. Tuk-Tuks do not have meters, and you will have to haggle over the price; ensure to set the price before you get in and set off with the driver.
Thailand’s Sky Train System (BTS) and the Underground System (MRT)
In the central areas of Bangkok, there is a Sky train (BTS) and an Underground train (MRT); the systems are vast and affordable. They are also clean and safe, making a great alternative to taxis or a tuk-tuk.
Hiring a Car in Thailand
Hiring a car is possible throughout tourist spots; however, many people find it a hair-raising experience to drive themselves in Thailand. Driving is the same as the UK on the left, with the steering wheel on the right. Thailand has a highway code, and many road rules are similar to those of other nations.
However, getting a driving license in Thailand is relatively easy, and you can use an International Driving License in Thailand. The roads are well maintained, and there are even tollways in Bangkok, allowing faster travel times. Petrol is very cheap in Thailand compared to other nations; it is only slightly taxed, making long journeys by car very economical.
Renting a Scooter in Thailand
Renting a scooter/motorbike is possible in Thailand, and hiring a motorcycle taxi where you sit in the back and get taken to your destination. However, as mentioned above, be careful on the roads; it is usually very hectic, and people drive very erratically. Always wear a helmet and, if possible, some protective and reflective clothing.
Traffic Accidents in Thailand
If you are ever involved in a road traffic accident, try not to get involved in discussions; wait for the police to arrive. In Thailand, displaying anger, getting involved in heated debates, or yelling matches is not advisable! Getting irritated and even presenting legitimate & logical rationalization about the accident will only worsen matters.
Trains in Thailand
Trains in Thailand are safe, clean, and very cheap. However, there are no fast trains, so for long distances, expect longer journey times and even sleep on an overnight long-distance train in a first-class cabin. Or a second-class bunk bed in the aisle of the train. The Thai government has pondered building a fast train network for many years; however, nothing has come to fruition.
Ferries in Thailand
You can also utilize the many waterways spread across the bustling metropolis in the Bangkok area. There are frequent ferry services across the city, and they can be a lot of fun and much faster than traveling by road. Ferries also allow you to see Bangkok from a different perspective and make for some exciting snapshots to upload to Instagram.
Walking in Thailand
Walking in Thailand! People rarely walk, and pavements are not provided in many places. If you do walk, you must dodge, bob & weave past food stalls and electric poles. Be especially vigilant at zebra crossings because, in Thailand, drivers won't stop. If you come to a zebra crossing, you must wait until it is clear before taking a step out into the road.
Flying in Thailand
If flying is your thing and you are blessed with the funds, you will be pleased to know that many provinces have airports. Many airports across the nation have even become international airports. There are local low-cost and boutique airlines to suit every type of traveller. Flight times across the country are rapid; however, most provinces fly to Bangkok first, and then you must switch flights to your next destination. Bangkok airports are hubs to get to all other areas in Thailand.
Crime in Thailand
Thailand is no worse than any other country when it comes to crime. It is a very safe country to travel in, and crimes against foreigners are relatively low. However, do not be lulled into a false sense of security; always watch your luggage and be mindful of pickpockets, especially in tourist spots.
Thai people want foreign tourists to leave Thailand with a good impression of their country, so crime against foreigners is taken very seriously. The police and the Tourist Police are on hand in almost all provinces.
Health Awareness in Thailand
On the health side of things, if you behave sensibly, you can avoid illness. Malaria and dengue fever are in Thailand; however, cases are relatively low. To avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and other bugs at night, use sprays and repellents, and cover your arms and legs.
Vacciness for Thailand
There are no mandatory vaccinations for Thailand; unless you come from nations that are known to be affected areas of serious diseases. However, always discuss with your doctor before departing to see what they recommend.
Sunstroke in Thailand
Be mindful of how much time you spend in the sun as it is scorching and easy to get sunstroke. Ensure to use plenty of sunscreens when staying outside for prolonged periods, and it is advised to wear a hat and sunglasses and sit in the shade whenever possible.
Drink a lot of water as you will dehydrate quickly; however, be careful what you drink. Tap water in Thailand is reported to be safe for consumption; however, many people avoid it and choose instead to drink bottled water.
Food poisoning is rare in Thailand as most food is stir-fried at high temperatures. Be cautious of buffets where food sits for long periods under heat lamps; many cases of food poisoning have been known to occur.
Medical Services in Thailand
If you feel ill, seeking medical attention is very easy; either go to a pharmacy which you will find dotted all over every town and city. Most pharmacists speak English, and many medicines are available over the counter in Thailand, including antibiotics. If you know what medication you require or are happy to take a pharmacist's advice, you may find that you do not need to consult a doctor.
If you feel your illness is more serious, visit a doctor's clinic or a hospital. There are doctors' clinics in every town and city, and each specializes in a different field of medicine. Most doctors speak fantastic English as they study medicine in English at university.
Private vs. Government Hospitals in Thailand
If you need to go to the hospital, be warned that government hospitals are bustling. Still, they are very cheap compared to international private hospitals. The level of care at a government hospital is not drastically different from that of a private hospital; however, the cleanliness, the price, and the privacy are areas where you may encounter a difference.
Relevant
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/teacher-training-program-thailand to read about Meaningful Work and Travel Teaching Positions starting in May 2023 with teacher training in April 2023.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/thai-motorcycle-license-personal-experience-and-tips to read about a teacher’s experience acquiring a motorcycle driving license.
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