- You are better off carrying USD than INR. Only few exchanges accept INR and you will get a good deal if you exchange USD. It works out profitable when you change INR -> USD -> THB rather than INR -> THB.
- There are a lot exotic and beautiful places to visit in Thailand. Dont limit your trip to Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket. Plan your trip to coincide with the full moon party. Its crazy!
- Stay in hostels and dorms. These are the best ways to connect with a lot of travellers and also save money. Look for a hostel that has got excellent reviews in hostelworld or booking. Costlier hostels do not necessarily mean they are good.
- A Thai Bhat is equivalent to 2 Rupees. That doesn’t mean you will get a meal for 25 THB. Food is expensive in Thailand. More so if you are a vegetarian. You will definitely have to shell out at least 100THB for a meal. A bag of laundry costs 50 THB. A loaf of bread costs 45 THB. Deal with it. No point in cribbing about it.
- None of the restaurants or hostels provide drinking water. You have to carry your own water everywhere and a 1.5 litre bottle costs 15 – 20 THB
- Most probably, you would be taking an Air Asia flight to Bangkok which will take you to the Don Mueang airport. It is best to take the Bus to Mo – Chit station from the airport and then take the BTS from there. If you are arriving in the wee hours, a taxi is your best bet.
- Dont travel with a fixed plan in mind. Chances are very high that you will love a place and might want to extend your stay. Be flexible.
- Carry about 2000 THB per person in hand or exchange at the airport. You will need money for your visa and for the taxi / bus. You don’t want to end up convincing the driver to accept Indian currency like I did.
- Most of the Thais don’t know English. If you want vegetarian food in a restaurant please specify No Meat and No Egg. Apparently egg is vegetarian in Thailand.
- The local beer Chang gives you a “Changover”. Alcohol % varies from 5 to 30 with each bottle. It however tastes great. Be careful before you start downing beers like you do with KF.
Happy Travels. ! Let me know your thoughts as well from your trip to Thailand !
PS: A tuk tuk has more leg space than the Air Asia flight. However, they can rip you off as well if you are not careful enough.
