Advice
Thailand Travel Advice
Here is some Thailand travel advice that came directly out of my journal. Most are just some random observations and tidbits that I didn’t feel like categorizing and should make your life a little easier.
Remember, these are just my observations, but even if one saves you a headache then it was worth it!
Check out the best months to visit Thailand.
Don’t take expensive flip-flops or sandals. You have to leave them outside of restaurants and bars and more often than not, a nice pair will “walk off”.
Don’t let Bangkok be your first and only impression of Thailand. You will either love it or hate it…and either way, given enough time there, you will embrace the filth, pollution, and madness!
Don’t be offended if someone calls you “farang“. Its not typically an insult and simply means foreigner.
If you pay to have laundry done, always inventory your goodies before paying. It is very common for clothing to get swapped between travelers. Don’t take anything for wash that you would cry about loosing! Wash that sentimental T-shirt in the sink instead.
Plan at least 24 hours if not longer for your stuff to dry in the humidity. If you pack it wet, everything will mold and stink (including your rucksack).
Learning just a little Thai, such as hello, thank you, and the numbers will greatly enhance your trip experience. It will also get you smiles and much better prices in places.
Leave the price tag on books for more leverage later when you try to trade it in.
Cheap international calls can be made via Skype from internet cafes. Another option is to purchase phone cards, yellow or orange, from a 7-11. Before buying a card with a lot of minutes, make sure that type of pay phone is available in the area! Some pay phones will not make international calls.
Keep a journal of your trip from the beginning – you will forever be glad that you did! Your memory will not last forever and years later when someone asks you where you stayed, etc…it will be invaluable.
Viruses are rampant in the internet cafes. Try to set the “write-protect” tab on your memory card before uploading pictures. Even your IPOD will become infected and will infect any laptops it is connected to!
Always try to return to the same businesses, shops, internet cafes, etc while you are staying in one place. They will recognize you as a return customer and will offer discounts, better services, and will take care of you.
Don’t live and die by the guidebook. The best advice comes from other travelers. The guidebook is a useful resource but don’t use it as the Lonely Bible! 
Be smart when it comes to taking Thailand travel advice from other backpackers – they have different trip objectives, personalities, and goals. Just because they tell you to go somewhere doesn’t mean you have to!
