Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Stick to bottled water or use filtered water stations found in most hostels and hotels.

Do I need to tip in Thailand?

Tipping is not mandatory, but leaving small change at restaurants or rounding up taxi fares is appreciated.

How do I get around cities?

Use the Grab app or Bolt for cars, and rely on the BTS Skytrain or MRT subway in Bangkok to bypass traffic.

Planning Your First Trip to Thailand

To plan your first trip to Thailand, prioritize a two-week route covering Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and one island destination to avoid burnout. Secure your flights at least three months in advance and handle your visa requirements online before departure to ensure smooth entry.

Map your route. Stick to the classic 'Golden Triangle' route for your first time: 3 days in Bangkok for culture/food, 4 days in Chiang Mai for mountains/temples, and 5 days in Krabi or Koh Samui for beaches. Use the remaining 2 days for travel time.
Book internal transport. Use low-cost carriers like AirAsia or Thai VietJet for long hauls (Bangkok to Chiang Mai or the South). For shorter distances, use the 12Go Asia website to book trains or buses.
Set your budget. Thailand is affordable, but costs add up. Set a daily budget of $70 USD to cover decent mid-range hotels, street food, daily activities, and transport.
Check entry requirements. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity remaining. Apply for an e-Visa if your country requires it or check if you qualify for a visa exemption upon arrival.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?: No. Stick to bottled water or use filtered water stations found in most hostels and hotels.
Do I need to tip in Thailand?: Tipping is not mandatory, but leaving small change at restaurants or rounding up taxi fares is appreciated.
How do I get around cities?: Use the Grab app or Bolt for cars, and rely on the BTS Skytrain or MRT subway in Bangkok to bypass traffic.