Thailand is known for its ancient ruins, Buddhist culture, and beautiful tropical beaches. The climate is characterized by monsoon rains and tropical summers. I have prepared a list of things to do to be prepared for departure to Thailand.
Here are my tips for your first trip to Thailand!
Weather
Thailand has two distinct seasons that will have a big impact on the cost of your trip and what you want to do. If you are traveling to Thailand with little money and want to spend as little as possible, plan your trip between May and October.
This is the country’s monsoon season and when it receives most of its annual rainfall. Less than perfect weather means you can easily pick up excellent deals on flights, accommodations and activities.
Also, the rain lasts only a few hours, so the whole day is not ruined!
If you want perfect weather book your vacation to Thailand during the dry season. From November to April, you can expect high visibility at dive sites, warm temperatures with lower humidity.
The only downside is that its high season. Airlines increase their prices for flights, hotels, hostels can book and there will be large crowds at major attractions.
Sim Card
While it is easy to find Wi-Fi in most bars, restaurants, stores and hotels in Thailand, it is still a good idea to purchase a local sim card once you arrive. You can buy directly at the airport, there are different offers, it depends on the companies, the one I took cost 15 Euro for about 30 days. It is also possible to buy sim cards in small stores around cities such as 7-11.
It is a small price to pay to make sure you are always connected.
Mosquito spray
Mosquitoes are everywhere in Thailand, especially during the rainy season. Before you board your flight, be sure to pack a repellent that is at least 50 percent deet.
Once you arrive, you can reduce your chances of being bitten by covering yourself between dusk and dawn. Pack a long-sleeved shirt and a pair of long pants that you can wear overnight.
Vaccination
For vacations in Thailand, Italian travelers are not required to undergo any kind of vaccination.
Among the recommended vaccines for Thailand are those for:
- Hepatitis A;
- Hepatitis B;
- Diphtheria;
- Typhoid (typhoid fever);
- Polio;
- Tuberculosis;
- Cholera;
- Tetanus.
Per più informazioni sulle vaccinazioni controlla qui. Assicurati di avere un assicurazione viaggio prima di partire. Ci sono compagnie di carte di credito come ad esempio l’American Express che offrono questi tipi di servizi.
You don’t need a visa
If you are an Italian citizen traveling to Thailand, you do not need to apply for a visa.
Do not drink tap water
Thailand’s tap water is not safe to drink. Instead, pack a reusable water bottle and fill up at your hotel or street water dispensers.
It is also a good idea to avoid eating fruits and vegetables that have been washed with tap water. This is how many people get sick on their journey.
Respect the Thai culture
In Thailand, the head is considered the most important part of the body. Do not touch a Thai person on the head; It is considered very rude and offensive.
Raising your voice and getting angry at the locals will get you nowhere.
It is also against the law to speak negatively about the royal family. If you are caught criticizing the monarchy, you can face serious justice problems.
If you plan to visit one of Thailand’s beautiful temples, you will need to have the correct clothing. It is considered disrespectful to show up in clothes that show a lot of skin, and you will not be allowed in.
When packing for your trip, be sure to pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for temple visits. I would also recommend carrying a scarf or shawl that you can keep in your bag in case you come across a temple that you really want to explore!
Many temples are organized and offer scarves and capes, long pants to cover the skin as much as possible, some are free in others you have to pay a small fee.
Try Street Food
Thailand boasts some of the best street food in the world! It costs only a couple of euros to fill your plate with huge portions of Phad Thai. The best food I ate was on the street.
