Bangkok offers plenty of exciting things to do beyond its well-known backpacker streets and tourist traps; take the time to plan and use an online or offline map effectively for the most rewarding visit possible.
Keep shoulders and anything above knees covered when entering temples; don’t believe any claims that monuments or tuk tuks have no meters; and always haggle! Cathay Pacific’s Chicago to Bangkok route is available.
1. Don’t trust strangers
Bangkok can be full of scams, so it is crucial that you remain wary at all times. One common example occurs when an overly helpful stranger approaches you and tells you that an attraction like Grand Palace or Wat Phra Kaew has closed due to repair work or nonexistent holidays – convincing them that their tuk tuk will take you to another location where they’ll charge ridiculous rates or sell low-quality goods on which they receive commission.
Be extra wary when using public transport in Bangkok; any seat near the door that is marked for pregnant women, old people, or monks could be considered inappropriate by some locals and vice versa. Furthermore, do not hold hands with your partner or spouse publicly as physical intimacy can often be frowned upon in Bangkok.
Bangkok may be a city of contrasts, yet most people there tend to be warm and friendly. Although scams exist here and there, traveling in Bangkok remains safe: just follow your gut instincts and don’t argue with anyone; always protect your belongings when traveling through this bustling metropolis.
Remember that Thailand is a Buddhist country and although it might be tempting to flaunt your tan by wearing shorts or skirts, when visiting temples and cultural sites it is best to cover up. Additionally, wearing revealing clothing while roaming Chatuchak or shopping at Siam Square could put you at risk from potential criminals who could try taking advantage of your vulnerable position.
2. Don’t get into a cab or tuk tuk without agreeing to a price
Many tourists get lost in Bangkok’s maze of taxis and tuk-tuks, but with some street smarts you can avoid being scammed. To do this, always opt for taxis with meters; insist the driver switch it on before sitting in their vehicle if possible; otherwise simply get out and hail another one; there are often plenty available.
Tuk-tuks can be much faster than taxis, but don’t be lured into jumping in without first agreeing on a price. Most drivers speak little or no English so communication must take place through hand gestures and body language; those familiar with your city may provide directions but keep in mind their knowledge may be limited with regards to street names.
Bring along a bottle of water as the heat can quickly dehydrate you. If you plan on walking through or exploring the city on foot, wear comfortable shoes and carry a small backpack; this way your valuables are always close at hand and less likely to be mislaid by tuk-tuk drivers at high speeds.
There have been reports of tuk tuk drivers colluding with local bag snatchers to drop you far away from your destination and charge you full fare, or worse yet leaving you vulnerable in a busy street. Although such cases are rare, it’s worth being aware of this risk and keeping your wits about you.
3. Don’t leave your passport with any tour companies
While trekking Bangkok on your own with just a guidebook and backpack may tempt intrepid travelers, first-time visitors are best served by taking an organized tour. Bangkok’s massive size can make getting around difficult without transportation; although public transit systems like subway and BTS skytrain provide good coverage but may not reach all areas of the city. An alternative would be taking a tuk tuk or songthaew (pickup trucks with covered passenger compartments).
Songthaews are an affordable means of transportation in Bangkok and are popular with travelers on a tight budget. Rent one for as little as 100 baht for the whole day; or hire a driver and group together all day with other passengers to save costs!
Cultural awareness should always be top of mind when visiting Thailand, particularly its diverse traditions and customs. For instance, it’s considered rude to point your feet toward any image of Buddha or monk and it is customary for women entering temples to wear skirts that cover both shoulders. Women are required to cover themselves when entering temples as well as wearing modest clothing such as skirts. Furthermore, women are expected to cover shoulders when entering. Beachgoers are advised against revealing clothing while topless sunbathing is unacceptable at any location.
Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months and have an authentic tourist visa to enter Thailand, otherwise, it could prevent entry. Thai visas can be purchased easily at airports or border crossings; alternatively, applying online in advance for one can save both time and effort.
4. Don’t drink too much
Many travelers breeze past Bangkok en route to other Thai destinations, but this vibrant capital deserves at least some time of your attention. From Khao San Road’s backpacker district to traditional street food vendors in Yaowarat – Bangkok has something exciting and enjoyable for every type of visitor.
But while navigating Bangkok on your own may appeal to the adventurous traveler in you, a tour is truly the best way to maximize your visit to this vibrant city. Tour guides know the city intimately and can take advantage of special discounts that locals may not know about; plus they’ll save time trying to navigate their way around by doing it all themselves!
Thailand is notorious for its wild drivers and drinking too much is never advised when traveling here. Though you might think a few drinks would help ease their burden, having too many will only cause your body to slip out of control, adding further danger in an already fast moving traffic environment.
Keep in mind that modesty is an integral part of Thai culture, so while you might wear shorts and T-shirt, when entering temples or taking photos of monks or people dressed in traditional clothing it is necessary to cover up more. In addition, shoes should always be removed upon entering homes and other establishments in order to show respect – this practice is common throughout many Asian countries.
5. Don’t leave your wallet at home
No matter where your journey in Bangkok may lead, having cash is essential to any experience. Expect to negotiate price discounts of 10-40%; in many instances you will even be called back later for last-ditch negotiations! Additionally, remember to bring plenty of water as Bangkok weather can become very hot and humid.
Assume only what money is necessary for that day and make copies of passport and credit cards just in case something goes missing. Travel with someone and notify loved ones at home of your itinerary so they can keep tabs on you.
Bangkok is generally considered to be a safe city; however there have been reports of bag snatches and physical attacks by men. Furthermore, Bangkok has stringent rules concerning illegal substances and can levy huge fines against foreigners for possession or consumption.
Dress modestly when visiting temples to ensure safety. Doing so shows respect to those visiting, while most places provide sarongs specifically designed for women; it may be wise to bring one along in case it cannot be found there.
If you are staying in a hotel or Airbnb, it is advisable to ask the host of the accommodation to write your name and address in Thai on a piece of paper for you to carry in your wallet. This will avoid any miscommunication when taking taxis as well as help facilitate communication with locals more effectively if charades isn’t your forte.