Joanna James
As one of the world’s popular travel hotspots, Thailand is often the first encounter Western travellers have with Asia. Whether you’re heading to the country out of cultural curiosity or to indulge in a beach getaway, here are 7 mistakes first-time visitors should avoid when navigating Thailand.
The biggest mistake first-timers make when planning a trip to Thailand is restricting their stay to the confines of Bangkok. While the city is one of the country’s top travel hubs, there’s more to Thailand than the bustling markets and the riverside temples occupying Bangkok. This is why it’s crucial to venture over to Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Pattaya or the central hills for a more comprehensive experience of this fascinating tourist destination.
As a mistake that even seasoned visitors are often guilty of, shopping in excess can be a costly issue for first-timers, particularly when it comes to limited baggage allowances. While it is easy to be overwhelmed by the affordable clothes, accessories, homewares and other items for sale on the streets and the shopping centres across Thailand, it is crucial to exercise some restraint.
Although renting a jeep to get around Koh Samui is a common practice among travellers staying at most Koh Samui, Thailand hotels, choosing a vehicle without air-conditioning is a big mistake. Despite the ocean breeze that’s a constant in Thai beach capitals, renting non A/C jeeps is not advisable for those hailing from colder climates.
Whether you’re staying at Avani+ Samui Resort or a city hotel in Bangkok, chances are that nearly every restaurant menu you come across will include a variation of Thailand’s national dish, Pad Thai. Although digging into a plate of Pad Thai is a rite of passage for first-timers, it would be a mistake to order this widely accessible noodle meal at every dining opportunity.
Thailand’s elephant camps and sanctuaries should be on every first-timer’s travel itinerary, although tourists should be mindful of the institutions they choose to visit during the trip. Unfortunately, most elephant camps in Thailand do not adhere to ethical practices, with some abusing their animal inhabitants by offering rides and other elephant-related activities that are detrimental to the resident gentle giants.
It’s also necessary to be honest and up front about your skill levels when it comes to taking part in water sports activities in Koh Samui and other beach capitals across Thailand. Those without strong swimming skills should not attempt scuba diving or surfing without the help of an instructor, especially since Thai beach hotspots also offer an array of water-bound activities that do not require swimming skills.
Whether you have sensitive skin or are more prone to getting sunburned, it would be a mistake to expose yourself to the elements for too long without wearing sunscreen. While this is particularly relevant for those who are holidaying in Thai islands and beaches, it is also prudent for those sightseeing in Bangkok and other areas of the country to use a high SPF suntan lotion when heading outdoors.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
