Explore Thailand

Explore Thailandhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailandExplore Thailandhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/insiders-guide-to-bangkokA local resident shares his tips for places to visit in Bangkok, where to stay, getting around, and where to get the best street food.2023-01-19T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/insiders-guide-to-bangkokhttps://www.worldnomads.comOne of the world’s most-visited cities, Bangkok has deep history, wonderful architecture, incredible food, and renowned nightlife. It’s also a giant, sweltering, and sometimes bewildering place. If you plan on visiting Bangkok, here are my travel tips to help you navigate the city where I’ve lived on and off for a decade. <ul> <li><a href="#traffic">Public transportation in Bangkok</a></li> <li><a href="#stay">Where to stay in Bangkok</a></li> <li><a href="#temples">Visiting Bangkok’s famous temples</a></li> <li><a href="#food-courts">Shopping center food courts are a secret wonder</a></li> <li><a href="#street-food">Where find the best street food in Bangkok</a></li> </ul> <a href="/explore/guides/thailand-itinerary">Traveling to Thailand soon? Download our free 14-day itinerary to discover the best of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, the Golden Triangle, and more.</a> <h2 id="traffic">Public transportation in Bangkok: how to bypass the nightmare traffic</h2> A gargantuan metro area of more than 15 million people, the Thai capital is horrendously difficult to navigate by road. Because it’s not laid out on a grid like many Western cities, Bangkok is plagued by a huge quantity of dead ends. This greatly reduces the number of routes vehicles can take, and so funnels traffic onto main thoroughfares. As a result, it takes forever to get around by taxi. A 3mi (5km) drive, for example, might take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes, and I’ve found you can never predict how long such a trip will take. I’ve driven the same route at the same time of day and had it take four times longer, for no discernible reason. Sometimes, you’ll need to take a taxi, such as when heading to and from Bangkok’s two international airports. But at other times you can avoid Bangkok’s traffic by using its clean, modern, and cool underground and Skytrain systems. They reach most of central Bangkok, run like clockwork and cost only between THB 16 – THB 66 (USD 50c - $2) for a one-way fare. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/bangkok-guide/skytrain.jpg" alt="The Skytrain transit system in central Bangkok." /> <figcaption>The Skytrain. Image credit: Getty Images / Alexander Spatari</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="stay">Where to stay in Bangkok</h2> Bangkok’s layout can be confusing because it doesn’t have a defined center. Instead, it has several hubs – clusters of skyscrapers surrounded by shopping, entertainment, dining, and accommodation options. Some of its key hubs are Asoke, Silom, and Siam. I always recommend friends and family stay in Asoke or Silom because they have both underground and Skytrain stations, which greatly increases the number of locations you can visit without having to wade into Bangkok’s awful traffic. Although, if your focus is on exploring Bangkok’s ancient sights, you should consider staying near the new Sam Yot or Sanam Chai underground stations, which give easy access to the city’s historic Rattanakosin area. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/bangkok-guide/rattanakosin.jpg" alt="Historic Rattanakosin Island in Bangkok." /> <figcaption>Historic Rattanakosin Island. Image credit: Getty Images / Natabong Supalertsophon</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="temples">Visiting Bangkok’s famous temples</h2> Bangkok’s shimmering Buddhist temples are perhaps its biggest draw. As visitors wander the grounds of these <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/respectful-travel">religious sites</a>, dazed by the majesty of their architecture, many would be unaware of the extraordinary tales they hide. Stories of magic, poets, evil, and mystery. Within the sprawling grounds of the Grand Palace, Bangkok’s number one attraction, lies the gilded glory of Wat Phra Kaew temple. At the centre of this 18th-century masterpiece is Thailand’s most important artefact, the 2ft (66cm) tall Emerald Buddha. According to Thai mythology, this revered statue is imbued with such power that it for centuries has protected the country from evil and granted wishes to those who pray before it. Not far away, in Bangkok’s Chinatown, another popular temple hid a priceless Buddha statue in plain sight for about 200 years. Each day tourists flow in and out of Wat Traimit temple to admire its massive, five-ton gilded Buddha. Yet for many generations, this statue was covered by stucco plaster, giving it an unremarkable appearance and concealing its enormous value. The similarly beautiful Wat Benchamabophit temple, in the Dusit district, is embedded with the little-known story of two unsung Italian architects who changed the appearance of Bangkok in the early 1900s. Mario Tamagno and Annibale Rigotti were asked by the Thai Royal family to add European flair to the city, which they did via an array of stately mansions, palaces, libraries, railway stations, and temples. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/bangkok-guide/marble-temple.jpg" alt="Wat Benchamabophit temple, aka the Marble Temple, in Bangkok." /> <figcaption>Wat Benchamabophit. Image credit: Getty Images / Marco Bottigelli</figcaption></figure> Meanwhile, the nearby Wat Thepthidaram temple, now a popular stop on Bangkok’s tourist trail thanks to its vibrant murals, was once the abode of Thailand’s controversial version of Shakespeare. Behind that temple tourists can visit a small museum dedicated to Sunthorn Phu, the greatest poet in Thai history, whose life was fractured by adultery, alcoholism, incarceration, and a fight with a King. <h2 id="food-courts">Shopping center food courts are a secret wonder</h2> Visitors travel from around the world to eat street food at Bangkok’s famous roadside stalls. So, here’s a surprise: many Bangkok locals prefer shopping center food courts, which are cheaper and more comfortable than street dining, and serve similarly great food. I was shocked when my Bangkok born-and-raised wife revealed this secret, because back home in Australia, food courts are infamous for bland cuisine and heart-clogging fast food. Whereas in Thailand, they have a great reputation. In fact, Thailand’s food courts are so popular that shopping centers use them as magnets to draw people inside. They position them on the top floor so that, on the way to and from your meal, you must walk past lots of shops, which pleases the shopping center’s tenants. To keep food court customers satisfied, Thai shopping centers headhunt talented street-food cooks, offer them cheap rent to set up in their food court. and subsidize the cost of their food so it’s <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/5-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-going-to-thailand#cheap">even cheaper</a> than the meals you buy on the street. As a result, you can get a delicious meal for just THB 33 (USD $1), all in air-conditioned comfort. Bangkok’s extreme heat and humidity makes this more attractive to many locals than sweating over a meal on the street. <h2 id="street-food">Where to find the best street food in Bangkok</h2> Regardless of the strong appeal of food courts, traditional Thai <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/health-hygiene-in-thailand">street food</a> should not be missed. If you haven’t visited Asia before, then dining on the street or within a teeming open-air market will be a unique and memorable experience, particularly if you head to Yaowarat, Silom Soi 20, or Nang Leong Market. Each evening, food seems to explode from every nook of these three locations. Yaowarat, also known as Chinatown, is a sprawling neighborhood which has countless alleys brimming with vendors selling my favorite comfort foods such as Kway Teow fried noodles and Kha Mu braised pork leg. When I visit Silom Soi 20, a narrow road lined by more than 20 street food operators, I favor its excellent Kuay Jab noodle soup and Khao Man Gai chicken rice. And for traditional Thai snacks, I visit Nang Leong market. There I slowly wander its stalls while grazing on Thong Yip egg dessert, deep fried bananas, or Nang Kai fried chicken skin. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/bangkok-guide/chinatown-2.jpg" alt="Outdoor food stalls in Bangkok's Chinatown." /> <figcaption>Food stalls in Bangkok's Chinatown. Image credit: Getty Images / Martin Puddy</figcaption></figure>Getty Images / Chadchai Ra-ngubpai 1962954154 Getty Images A traveler takes a photo at Wat Phra Kaew temple in Bangkok.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/exploring-chaloem-rattanakosin-national-parkThis pristine patch of jungle is one of the least-visited parks in Thailand. Discover why hiking to spectacular Tarn Lod Yai – a massive ancient sea cave – should be on your list.2022-01-28T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/exploring-chaloem-rattanakosin-national-parkhttps://www.worldnomads.comThe trail to Tarn Lod Yai (big Tarn Lod Cave) is only a couple of kilometers long but the end is steep – around 2,625ft (800m) of elevation gain in the second 0.6mi (1km). At the top of a seemingly endless set of wooden steps winding their way up the jungly mountain, there’s a perfect spot to take in the view of the valley below and settle the heart rate before pushing on to the cavernous arch. Tarn Lod Yai is the highlight of Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park (aka Tarn Lod National Park) in Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand. It’s one of my favorite parks not just for its primeval jungle, waterfalls, and overall Land of the Lost feel but also because it’s so often empty. Around 53mi (85km) from Kanchanaburi City or 3 to 4 hours from the center of <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/insiders-guide-to-bangkok">Bangkok</a>, Tarn Lod is one of the most stunning but least-visited parks in the country. <ul> <li><a href="#wilderness">Untouched wilderness in western Thailand</a></li> <li><a href="#hiking">Hiking to Tarn Lod Lek and Tarn Lod Lai</a></li> <li><a href="#trip-notes">Trip notes</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="wilderness">Untouched wilderness in western Thailand</h2> I’ve visited the park around 50 times during my almost two decades of living in <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand">Thailand</a> and used it as an overnight rest stop when I led motorcycle tours in the country. It was my clients’ reactions on those tours as well as my own love of the place that kept me coming back. No matter where they came from, everyone who visited was blown away by its untouched natural beauty. Although the park is only 23mi2 (59km2), its boundaries touch on either protected or uninhabited forest all around, so it appears as part of a massive green space on the map – an area that includes some of the most <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/keep-nature-pristine">pristine jungle environments</a> in Thailand, where wild elephants still roam the hills, gibbons call at the break of day, and hornbills glide in pairs to their nest at sunset. Being so far from any town, the night sky at Tarn Lod is a marvel for those of us who rarely get to take in the magnificence of our universe. Pro tip: the lights all along the campground each have their own switch so they can be turned off to eliminate light pollution. <h2 id="hiking">Hiking to Tarn Lod Lek and Tarn Lod Lai</h2> If <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">hiking</a> to the big cave, it's best to start out in the morning and give yourself adequate time (about five hours, which leaves plenty of time for exploring). Once across the wooden bridge at the park campground, visitors must sign in at the entrance to Tarn Lod Lek, the “small” cave. Rangers will clear the trail and extinguish cave lights at 4pm. For some, the small cave might be experience enough. Once inside the mouth, the 0.3mi (500m) path is cast in twilight and the only sound is the rushing stream and the leathery clatter of thousands of bats disturbed from their clusters along the ceiling. The cave is like a gallery of stalactites, stalagmites, and odd rock formations. At the far end, green-tinged daylight breaks in and hikers enter the jungle proper. After the neatness of the campground, the plush density of real jungle seems an intense counterbalance, but the trail is well maintained. This is not to say it’s easy going – hikers should be aware that some level of physical fitness is needed. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/tarn-lod/waterfall.jpg" alt="A waterfall along the path to Tarn Lod Yai cave in Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park, Thailand." /> <figcaption>A waterfall along the path to Tarn Lod Yai. Image credit: John McMahon</figcaption></figure> The first km is an easy walk through a labyrinth of immense banyan trees and thickets of wickedly spiked bamboo. These tower over ground foliage so dense that spotting animal life along the trail is rare, though the sounds of scampering in the leaves lets you know you're not alone. Along the second km are several waterfalls where you can cool off. The second and largest bursts through a cluster of fallaway boulders and oversize vegetation – a view that’s easy to forget is a result of nature and not the work of man. From here to the top is the steepest climb but the payoff is too great to comprehend quitting. At the top of the stairs, Tarn Lod Yai starts to come into view, a vast arch of rock looming over the high jungle. Tarn Lod isn’t the kind of limestone cave Thailand is famous for, but an ancient sea cave. The arch towers more than 200ft (61m) and the interior could encompass a football field if it wasn't full of boulders and rock formations cut by the stream that’s run through it for eons. Inside the cave a cool breeze blows year-round – at almost 2,953ft (900m) this is one of the highest points in the province, so hikers can cool off and take in as much of this natural cathedral as possible. Monks and devotees of the nearby forest temple make merit here at a small altar with golden buddha figures. Along the stream is a massive petroglyph of a snake/fish that dates back at least 10,000 years. There is almost always a ranger at the top for any advice or if an emergency occurs. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/tarn-lod/cave-temple.jpg" alt="A buddhist monk kneels before a small altar in Tarn Lod Yai cave, Thailand." /> <figcaption>A monk makes merit at the altar inside Tarn Lod Yai. Photo credit: John McMahon</figcaption></figure> Continue through the cave to enter a giant fern forest that has a unique quality of light and mulchy smell. Further on, a forest meditation temple sits across a small bridge, but it's best to stay clear of this Wat as it’s a place for devotees to come for meditation retreats and not a tourist attraction. <h2 id="trip-notes">Trip notes</h2> <h3>Where to stay</h3> The park offers camping in manicured grounds along a small stream, but it also has 10 double-occupancy bungalows that are well worth the small increase in price. Renting a tent, sleeping bag, mattress pad, and pillow runs to about US $20 per night (tents are set up by staff), while the bungalows, with large verandas and two bedrooms with comfortable beds, fans, and hot water showers, are about US $35, fully furnished. There are several food stalls at the park entrance where visitors can have decent, simple Thai meals, including some very good Kai Yang (grilled chicken – pair it with a fresh, spicy papaya salad for the perfect Thai lunch) but overnighters will want to bring food and cooking gear. The very helpful park staff may even loan out a charcoal BBQ on request. <h3>Getting there</h3> The best way to get to Tarn Lod is by private car or motorcycle. It’s possible to get there via public transport from Kanchanaburi City on the local Dachang bus with some additional finagling at Ban Lam Yai (walking or hitching a ride the last 2.5mi/4km). Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirt, and closed-toe shoes for the hike and bring plenty of water. Nights get cool, so bring a sweater or hoodie. The only downside to Tarn Lod: like every national park in Thailand, it has two-tier pricing for entry (US $9/300 THB for non-residents, US $0.90/30 THB for Thai residents).John McMahon 0 John McMahon The 200-ft arch of Tarn Lod Yai cave rises above the jungle in Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park, Thailand.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/exploring-the-royal-coastal-routeThailand's scenic Royal Coastal Route leads to places well-known as well as off the beaten track. Traveling during a pandemic means you can enjoy it free of crowds. 2021-01-12T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/exploring-the-royal-coastal-routehttps://www.worldnomads.comAs I make a left-hand turn off the traffic-choked, six-lane, Rama II Road, onto the two-lane Royal Coastal Route (RCR), about an hour south of Bangkok, the stress of competing with double-trailer trucks and lane-splitting motorcycles falls away. Conceived of more than a decade ago, the RCR (which weaves its way south 620mi (1,000km) to the Malaysian border along the Gulf of Thailand) was part of late King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s plan to improve infrastructure in the least-developed parts of the country. It was created by improving already existing rural roadways and connecting them with more than 186mi (300km) of new construction – including dedicated cycling lanes. The department of land management, which oversees the project, calls it the “most beautiful scenic route in <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand">Thailand</a>” and promotes the coastal region as the Thai Riveria. <ul> <li><a href="#twins">Chang and Eng, famous Siamese Twins</a></li> <li><a href="#hua-hin">Southwest to Hua Hin</a></li> <li><a href="#hat-yai">South of Hat Yai </a></li> <li><a href="#trip-notes">Trip notes</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="twins">Chang and Eng, famous Siamese Twins</h2> The route begins in historic Samut Sakhon, a city older than Bangkok, where the Mae Klong River (not to be confused with the Mekong) splits into numerous channels before emptying into the Gulf of Thailand. It was here that the conjoined brothers, Chang and Eng, to whom the outdated term “Siamese twins” was first given, were born in the mid-1800s. The brothers toured Europe and North America for more than a decade, regarded as a wonder of nature, before settling down in North Carolina, using their show business money to start a plantation. The brothers married the Bunker sisters and had 21 children between them before their deaths, days apart in 1875. I found an unimposing statue commemorating the town's famous offspring just off the RCR, in a dusty square outside the city's juvenile court building. Moving south, the canal bridges give way to sea farms that are flooded and raked to harvest salt. Tons of it, piled and stored in ramshackle wooden buildings, dot this almost surreal landscape. Salt farmers, riding tractors and covered head to toe against the blazing sun, criss-cross the fresh-laid blacktop. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/royal-coastal-route-salt-pans-john-mcmahon.jpg" alt="A pink saline lake at the salt farms near Samut Sakhon, Thailand." /> <figcaption>A saline lake at the salt farms near Samut Sakhon. Photo credit: John McMahon</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="hua-hin">Southwest to Hua Hin</h2> Ban Laem is the first of several popular beach towns leading to the chic resort city of Hua Hin, which caters to visiting travelers, with accommodation ranging from backpacker to luxury and food choices from around the world. Once the preferred home of the late King Rama IX, it hosts a yearly jazz festival in his honor. I stopped here for the night, and found hotel prices greatly reduced and the long golden shingle of Hua Hin Beach, normally crowded with vendors, jet skiers and horse-riding touts, all but empty. The RCR hugs the coast tightly for another 19mi (30km) as the 300 peaks of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park come ever closer. The road snakes through the steep limestone formations of the park, stippled with caves and temples. It’s a favorite stretch for cyclists and motorcyclists for its tight corners and long, flat stretches, but use caution as packs of macaque monkeys live among the crags here and pay little heed to human traffic. The only major interruption to the coastal route is at Ao Manu, or Lime Bay, just outside of Prechuap Kiri Khan city. The bay is popular with families and weekenders for picnics and swimming in its tranquil, shallow waters surrounded by limestone karsts that rise up out of the sea. There’s no through road, since the entire bay is under control of The Royal Thai Air Force’s 5th wing command (and the site of the only battle between Thai forces and the invading Japanese Army during WWII). I timed my stop here to coincide with a holiday, one of the few days when the challenging hiking trail to the top of Lom Muak Mountain is open. Setting off before the heat of day, the two-hour walk uphill rewarded me with an astounding panorama of the city, bay, and sea beyond. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/royal-coastal-route-boats-john-mcmahon.jpg" alt="Colorful boats on the shore of Lake Songkla, Thailand." /> <figcaption>Colorful boats on the shore of Lake Songkla. Photo credit: John McMahon</figcaption></figure> <h2>Chumpon and the south</h2> The road south to the city of Chumphon is one of my favorites in Thailand, as it runs along miles of empty beaches with views of still-unsullied islands just off shore in the turquoise water. The road is fun to drive, with a series of banked, twisty corners and rolling hills. Chumpom is considered the first city of the south. Small enough to easily walk around, but large enough to offer a good choice of accommodation, shopping, and dining, it’s also the jumping-off point for the islands of the famous Samui Archipelago, including <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/koh-samui-thailand-is-it-safe">Koh Samui</a>, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. Further south, between the ancient capital city, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and the ad hoc capital of the south, Hat Yai, lies Lake Songkla, the largest in Thailand. The lake covers more than 386mi2 (1,000km2) and is dotted with islands large enough to support entire villages. I spent the night on its shores and then hired a boat for an early morning ride through its immense lotus bloom, hoping to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins that live in its waters. The flowers were exquisite, but the dolphins remained unseen. <h2 id="hat-yai">South of Hat Yai</h2> The RCR essentially disappears as a marked route south of Hat Yai, in the provinces of Pattani and Naratiwat, but it’s still possible to follow the coastline in this area, where Buddhist temples give way to mosques and the call to prayer can be heard in every small town. Once part of <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/malaysia">Malaysia</a>, and still experiencing problems of assimilation with the rest of Thailand, this area sees few foreign tourists, though visitors from Malaysia are abundant. The food of the true south is different from the rest of the country, and it’s here that I seek out my favorite Massaman curry, made the way it should be – slow cooked and rich with spice and heat. One of the goals of the RCR is to bring more people, Thai and foreign, to these lesser-known regions. For the curious traveler who wants to see more than just Bangkok and Phuket, or even a long-time resident like myself, the Royal Coastal Route opens a whole gamut of unique destinations to explore in your own way. <h2 id="trip-notes">Trip notes</h2> The RCR is suitable for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles for long stretches. As the route never wanders very far from population centers, there is no concern about fuel, food, or accommodation. For cyclists, it’s best to take the southern train out of Bangkok as far south as Ban Laem – as the RCR essentially runs parallel to the southern rail line, cyclists can use the train to pick and choose stretches to follow without ever having to ride on the congested and dangerous Highway 4. For those who enjoy roughing it, all of Thailand's National Parks offer tents, and most, very comfortable bungalows for overnighting with safe distancing. Whether going by car or motorcycle, it’s highly advisable to review Thai driving habits before setting off on any trip, as maneuvers unseen in other places are the norm in Thailand. (Note: Some governments advise against non-essential travel to certain parts of southern Thailand. Check your government's travel warnings before visiting.) John McMahon 0 John McMahon A field of lotus plants on the surface of Lake Songkla in Thailand.

Water Buffalo Races in Chonburi, Thailand | Travel https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/water-buffalo-racing-in-chonburi-thailandWater Buffalo Races in Chonburi, Thailand | Travel Wed, 26 Feb 2020 22:18:17 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/water-buffalo-racing-in-chonburi-thailandRealization on the Run Tee River | Thailand Travelhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/fear/realization-on-the-run-tee-riverRealization on the Run Tee River | Thailand TravelThu, 22 Aug 2019 21:49:40 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/fear/realization-on-the-run-tee-riverhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/the-world-nomads-podcast-thailand-travel-safety-guideWe showcase our newly polished travel safety guide to Thailand with everything you need to know to have a safe and fun time in the ‘land of smiles’.2018-08-14T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/the-world-nomads-podcast-thailand-travel-safety-guidehttps://www.worldnomads.com<div> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2V9BgOBKU7Mu64Jii8i9DY?si=ucNEpy2dQ_GZeHkenEK_UQ"><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Podcast/spotify%20logo%20green.png" style="width: 46px; height: 46px;" alt="“Listen" on="" spotify="" /></a>   <a href="https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=154934&refid=stpr"><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Podcast/stitcher-logo-120x46.jpg" style="width: 120px; height: 46px;" alt="Listen on Stitcher" /></a></div> <h2>The World Nomads Podcast: Thailand Travel Safety Guide</h2> In this episode, we showcase our newly polished travel safety guide to Thailand with everything you need to know about transport, scams, and rip-offs so you can have a safe and fun time in the ‘land of smiles'. Want to read personal, inspiring and engaging stories about travel? <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/stories/">Go here</a>. <h2>What's in the Episode</h2> 00:14 Welcome 00.43 Stuart McDonald from Travelfish "...As long as everyone's not looking at their phone, there's an opportunity to get to know locals as they're traveling, which I think has been a really great development, not just in Thailand, but particularly in Thailand is very noticeable." 06:36 Changes to boating laws in Thailand 09.21 When your boat sinks "... It was a couple of hundred meters and that's a long way to swim when you're fully clothed and you've got boots on and you're trying to drag your pack and the waves are bad" - Stuart Travelfish 11:41 Riding motorbikes in Thailand 14:39 Should you pay bribes 17:12 How to avoid having your drink spiked 18:12 Claire Rogers discusses solo female travel safety in Thailand "...Obviously beach resorts in Bali and Thailand, they're used to travelers and backpackers. While, if you're in the countryside, they may not see as many people. So they're just not used to how to approach you and how to talk to you, just the best way to go about things." 21:20 Females and Monks 23:58 Don't go out without any underwear on 27:44 What’s happening in the next episode <h2>Who's on the Show</h2> <a href="/travel-safety/author/allyson-jennings">Allyson Jennings </a>World Nomads Travel Safety Producer Stuart McDonald from<a href="https://www.travelfish.org">Travelfish</a>, an independent travel guide for Southeast Asia. <a href="/travel-safety/author/claire-rogers">Claire Rogers</a> - <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/solo-female-travel-safety">Travel Safety for Women in Southeast Asia</a>  <h2>Resources & Links</h2> Thailand Travel Safety Guide can be downloaded here<a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/guides/thailand-safety-guide"></a>. The media release highlighting changes to Phuket boat safety. Scholarships Newsletter:<a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/create"> Sign up for scholarships news and see what opportunities are live here</a>. Read more about Thailand’s bid to become an LGBTQ travel hotspot. <h2>Want to Talk to us?</h2> We want to hear from you! If you have any travel insurance questions to <a href="mailto:podcast@worldnomads.com">Ask Phil</a>, want to give us feedback on the episode, or have suggestions for topics you'd like us to cover, email us at <a href="mailto:podcast@worldnomads.com">podcast@worldnomads.com</a>  <h2>About The Podcast</h2> Explore your boundaries and discover your next adventure with The World Nomads Podcast. Hosted by Podcast Producer Kim Napier and World Nomads Phil Sylvester, each episode will take you around the world with insights into destinations from travelers and experts. They’ll share the latest in travel news, answer your travel questions and fill you in on what World Nomads is up to, including the latest scholarships and guides. The World Nomads Podcast is not your usual travel Podcast. It’s everything for the adventurous, independent traveler. Don’t miss out. Subscribe today. <h2>Want to Re-publish This Episode?</h2> Copy this code onto your web page or blog:<iframe width="100%" height="200" src="https://player.whooshkaa.com/player/episode/id/264242?visual=true&sharing=true" frameborder="0" style="width: 100%; height: 200px"></iframe> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Full Transcript of the Episode</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> Speaker 1: Welcome to the World Nomads Podcast, delivered by World Nomads, the travel lifestyle, and insurance brand. It's not your usual travel podcast. It's everything for the adventurous, independent traveler. Kim: Welcome to a bonus episode of the World Nomads podcast, coinciding with the release of our new and improved safety guide. The guide is full of tips, hacks, advice, warnings, and travel alerts, so you can have a safe but fun time in Thailand. Now, fellow podcast host, Phil. Hello, Phil. Phil: G'day. Kim: And travel safety producer, Allyson. Hello, Allyson. Allison: Hello. Kim: They've spent months toiling over the refresh and they're going to share a few of the highlights with us in this episode but, first, Stuart McDonald runs Travel Fish, an independent travel guide to Southeast Asia which, obviously, includes Thailand. Phil: Stuart, you know, Thailand is an amazingly popular destination. You must get a lot of traffic to your site, people asking questions about Thailand. Stuart: Yeah, sure. It's definitely the most popular part of our site, both for our new visitors who have never been there before, and people going back for their fifth, tenth, twentieth trip. Kim: Yeah, it's one of those places that you don't tire of easily. Even if you've been to Phuket three times, you can certainly do a fourth. Stuart: Speak for yourself, I don't know about four times in Phuket. Kim: You get what I'm saying. Phil: Yeah, I know what you mean. Stuart: But yeah, it's the kind of country that people just go back to again and again and again. Phil: What's your favorite bit of Thailand then, Stu? Stuart: I prefer back in the northeast along the Mekong River. Preferably where it isn't as heavily touristed. Most of the islands in Thailand now are pretty well developed, so I try and, like to get to areas a bit further, I feel a little bit more off the beaten track and just get a scooter and go exploring. Phil: When was the first time you went to Thailand, how long ago? I'm gonna get you away from your age now, aren't I? Stuart: I'd say the first time in '93. Kim: Does it attract regularly, travelers from the UK, from Europe, from America? Stuart: Yeah, absolutely. Not so much from the States, but Thailand has always been very popular with Europeans, particularly the French and Germans. The Brits have a very strong, contingent down the islands and there's obviously a lot of expatriates who were from Europe in a previous life. Australians are there as well, lots of Kiwis. A big change over the years I've been going there is now you see a lot more Thais traveling there. When I first went there, to run into a Thai backpacker who was staying in a guest house was really peculiar. But now that's really common. I think that's a really good thing because, back in the day, unless you made the effort, the only kind of interaction you would have with a local would be you're buying a beer or booking a guesthouse or whatever. But now you're just as likely to come across them in the common room as somebody from Argentina and Spain. As long as everyone's not looking at their phone, there's an opportunity to get to know locals as they're traveling, which I think has been a really great development, not just in Thailand, but particularly in Thailand is very noticeable. Kim: Why the shift though? Stuart: Growing middle class, more money, and just better information out there in the Thai language, for traveling in that country. There's a lot of Thais now traveling around, particularly younger people, and it's great Phil: From an Australian perspective, Thailand really is the new neighbor that's sort of backyard, and so many Australians travel there that they've become a little bit blasé about what to expect when they get there. In terms of safety I'm talking about here, they truly built their own backyard and maybe are not paying the kind of attention they ought to do. Would you say that's true? And how do other people, like those from Europe, how do they react to Thailand from a safety perspective? Is it perceived as a safe place, or a bit on the dodgy side sometimes? Stuart: I think there are perception and reality. I think genuinely speaking, Thailand's a very safe place to travel to. We always say you have a packing list which is telling people what to pack, how many sets of underwear and how many t-shirts and all that kind of stuff. But really the first thing you need to pack is your brain, and I think a lot of people, like you say, they arrive and they're really just not taking into account where they are, and you are in a different country and things do work differently. Not necessarily in a negative way, but still, things can be quite a big difference. But that doesn't necessarily make it unsafe, you've just got to take a bit more personal responsibility and making sure that you're taking the safety precautions, which say, in Australia, you would have to because it's against the law. Where in Thailand and elsewhere in Southeast Asia, it's a bit more ... well yeah, you should wear a helmet, you shouldn't be drunk, but nobody's really gonna do much about that, so it's up to you not to do it. Kim: Well the full moon party always makes news, whenever that happens there's always some idiot that does something stupid. Stuart: Yeah sure, but if you've ever had a beach festival in Australia with 10,000 people there and a lot of stuff that you maybe wouldn't come across normally, you'd have some pretty outrageous behavior as well. I haven't been to a full moon party in a couple of years, but yeah, it's personal responsibility, watching what you do, watching your drink, that kind of thing. I think in the scheme of things, I don't do too bad with that particular event. Phil: Because somebody's serving you a bucket drink, it doesn't mean you have to drink the whole thing. Kim: Oh really? Who would've thought! Stuart: Yeah, exactly, there's not a law that you have to drink through it. You read stories about the situations people get themselves into, and you think, well what were you thinking? And often they just weren't. Phil: Just out in the last 24 hours up to recording this, there was, in the wake of that terrible tragic boat accident where a lot of Chinese tourists drowned, the Thai government, and when I say Thai government you mean the generals in suits these days, around the jo Stuart: Yeah, the [inaudible 00:06:56]. Phil: Yeah. But, they have just announced that they are going to start checking on vessels to make sure they are seaworthy before they're allowed to be registered. And tourists spots that are going out are going to have to register, put in a plan like a flight plan for a boat. It's kind of good to see those changes coming through as well. Stuart: Yeah, absolutely. In that particular case, I think some of these laws are already actually on the books. It's one thing for a general to get up and say we're gonna do this, or we're gonna do that. They're under tremendous pressure to do something because there's been quite a large backlash from mainland Chinese groups. So they've got the stick that they're trying to get some action out of the [inaudible 00:07:43]. But it's one thing to say everyone's gonna have a life jacket or there's gonna be a boat manifesto, whatever. It's another thing to enforce it. So when they start enforcing it, it'll be a great step forward. Kim: Well they do say it's effective immediately, they say that its boat operators will be swiftly punished with the maximum penalty. But in addition, you will ... any boat that you want to build, the blueprint has to be submitted, and as Phil said, to make sure it is actually a seaworthy boat. Phil: A seaworthy boat! Stuart: Seaworthy. Well that's reassuring, isn't it? Phil: Yeah ... Kim: Well it is. Phil: No more leaky boats allowed that's a good [inaudible 00:08:23] there. Stuart: Right, yeah, exactly. Kim: We can be as suspicious as we like, but it makes you feel a little safer, doesn't it, when you read those things in black and white? Phil: One of the things that we say on the nomad site and in our safety guide when you get on the boat, ask them to show you the life jackets. If they can't show you the life jackets, they probably don't have any, go get on another boat that does. Kim: Yeah. Stuart: Yeah. Phil: It's that sort of personal responsibility. Stuart: I think this is a big thing, also not- around the same time as that accident in Phuket, there was the tragedy on Lake Toba in Sumatra where there was over 100 dead. I think it was 200 actually. Now that boat was overloaded to a ridiculous extent. You really need to say to people, and this is something that we say, if the boat is overloaded, if the boat driver is obviously stoned or drunk, if there are no life jackets, don't get on. Just don't- like I've been on a boat that sunk. I've had to swim from the boat to shore, it wasn't very far, but I would prefer not to have had that experience. It's a very difficult situation to be in, but our boat was overloaded, our boatman was stoned, what were we thinking? I was twenty-something, I'm like yeah whatever, it'll be okay. But you really need to take this kind of responsibility in your own hands. Because the state won't do it. Phil: Can you tell us a bit more about that, that must've been absolutely frightening? Stuart: It was in far southern southwest Thailand, and we're taking a long tail boat from one island to another, in quite bad weather conditions. The boat was overloaded, and there were too many backpacks and too many people, and the boatman wasn't really of this earth. I know it was about 200 meters offshore or something like that, and the boat sank. But it was a couple of hundred meters and that's a long way to swim when you're fully clothed and you've got boots on and you're trying to drag your pack and the waves are bad, and all of that kind of stuff. There's a famous saying where they say everything was going fine until it wasn't. Kim: Imagine if you were smashed, like you had a skin full of alcohol, too. That just makes the whole swimming to shore even more difficult. Stuart: Exactly. Phil: I read in another main that I saw, just the other day, it's ... one day your life is gonna flash in front of your eyes, make sure it's worth watching. And I think you've probably done that Stewart? Kim: I love it. Stuart: Yeah, I've had a few moments. Kim: So in summary, pack your brain. Stuart: Yeah, I think, pack your brain is the main thing. There are all sorts of ... you could pack a medical kit and this and that, the easiest way to reduce your risk profile when you're traveling in Thailand, is to wear a helmet, is to get a motorcycle license before you go. That's 90% of the problem gone. Kim: Thanks for that, Stewart, so let's pick apart some aspects of the guide with Phil and Allison, and perhaps to pick up here Stuart left off and ask about riding motorbikes and scooters, obviously a helmet. Phil: Absolutely, it is the law in Thailand that you need to wear a helmet. It's also a requirement of, well, nomad's travel insurance that you're wearing a helmet. But the other requirement, Allison, would be, you gotta have a license, right? Allison: That's correct. You must have a license, in fact, a motorcycle license from home, and an international driver's permit in order to ride legally in Thailand. Kim: Wow, so just like hiring a car. Phil: That's right, you don't magically acquire a motorcycle license by flying into Bangkok, and then international driver's permit, an IDP, is not license, it's a translation of your home license into other languages. So it doesn't, again, magically bestow upon you the ability to ride a motorcycle or license to do so. It will only say that you are licensed to drive whatever it is you've got. Kim: So you've got to know how to ride a motorbike, simple. Phil: Yeah, you gotta know how to ride a motorbike. Kim: So once you've got your motorbike, so we've assumed you got your license, you've got your international driver's license as well. What are the roads like? Allyson: Put this way, if you're a beginner, Thailand's not the place to learn. Kim: Why? Allyson: Let's just say they've got a very high road toll per capita, in fact, they're just behind Libya in terms of road statistics fatalities. Between 2016 and 17 in the new year period, over 400 people were killed in one week. Kim: Four hundred people in one week! These are people that have got licenses! Allyson: Yeah, imagine so, but then there's probably a lot of people there who ride without them. Phil: The regulatory authorities don't check stuff out as often as they do here. So you can probably ride around without a motorcycle license for quite a while. If you're gonna get stopped by a policeman, then you just have to pay, we'll get to this in a minute, you just have to pay an on the spot fine, and you'll be allowed to go on your way. But that doesn't mean, because you're allowed to go on your way, doesn't mean that you're licensed. It just means you've been allowed to continue riding illegally. Kim: Well, in the Destination Podcast last week with Cassie, on Vietnam, Cambodia, and Lao, she mentioned ... the bribes, the [inaudible 00:13:54]. Thailand is part of southeast Asia, and obviously, a little bit of, you like this one, Phil, don't you? Phil: I do, that little bit of backhanded air, no problem. We're all doing hand signals as well. Allyson: Should be right. A little bit of silence money. Phil: Yeah. Bribery, corruption I suppose are just really what it is. Police in Thailand <g class="gr_ gr_689 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="689" data-gr-id="689">are</g> very poorly paid. And to help put food on the table for the families, they will look for opportunities to earn some cash on the side, and that's usually by stopping foreigners that they see driving or riding around, imposing an on the spot fine. Which includes no paperwork, which goes straight into their pocket. You will find them, at particular times of the year, they're a bit more keen on that one. When is it, it's the ... Allyson, end of the year, when they've got a holiday break and they need some extra cash. Allyson: Yeah, a little bit of extra interview money to spend on the family and everybody else. A little bit of gig money on the side. Bottom line is, don't be a dumb farang and get busted. Phil: Yeah, well you're probably gonna get stopped anyway. Look, and I don't know ... how you feel about this, Kim, ethically? How do you feel about- Kim: I think it's like giving a donation. Phil: Okay. Kim: You know, in Australia, we have a giving tree at Christmastime where we take wrapped gifts and we put them under the tree and they go to people who can't afford them. If they're struggling with their family and trying to get through the festive season, what's <g class="gr_ gr_669 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="669" data-gr-id="669">the fine</g>, what are we talking? Probably should ask that first. Phil: Couple bucks, sometimes, maybe five bucks. Kim: No, [crosstalk 00:15:38] five Phil: Ten bucks by the time you've converted it, it's not a lot. Allyson: Not an issue. Kim: It's about $200-500 baht, yeah not an issue. But are they bribing in other areas, as well as on the road? Phil: Uh, yes, there are ... you could be invited to speed up the process by making a donation for tea money or something like that. Kim: Special donation? Phil: We can't, it's illegal, basically. It boils down to, you're paying a bribe, you're being, participating in corruption, so it's illegal. A number of people will have issues, ethically, with doing that. What we advise is, try not to think of it as a bribe or corruption, but paying honor and respect to the official that you're dealing with. Can I just say though, by the way, because I'm gonna have to do this because this is a brand podcast. We do not condone illegal activity of any type. Kim: But I'm not- Phil: The other thing you'll find as well, don't forget that it is a military junta running Thailand, and they are well aware of how bad the corruption is and what it does to the ... public perception of the country. So they're actually cracking down on it Allyson: Insane that prostitution's illegal in Thailand, yet you can make a lot of money off it. Phil: I know, knocked me there with a feather when I heard that one, I have to stay. Kim: It's booming, is it booming industry? Phil: Well, yeah. But it is actually illegal. Kim: We'll chat to Claire very shortly about being a female traveler on your own in Thailand. Before we do that, drink spiking. Phil: Yes, a problem everywhere in the world, but also quite common in some of the Sois [crosstalk 00:17:26] Allyson: Soi Bangla. Phil: And backlands of the-and the nightclubs around Patong and Bangkok, and Bangkok and those places. You need to protect yourself from drink spiking. Men and women, because it does happen to everybody. And there are ways of making sure you don't get spiked. Allyson: It's buying your own drink? Never leave your drink unattended, finish your drink before you go to the toilet, as well. Kim: So pick your brain, the stuff that you would do in any city. Allyson: Exactly. Kim: Does the moonshine kind of business stretch into Thailand, you know, the- Allyson: There is bootleg alcohol, it does happen, but it's a case of where you're getting, you know, your drinks mixed, check the bar is using a reputable brand of alcohol, rather than the unlocked bottle. If it looks sus, don't take it, don't drink it, Kim: Tips for men and women, but Claire Rodgers has written an article for us about solo female travel safety in Southeast Asia, so I reckon that's a pretty good time to hand things over to you, Claire. Claire: It is safe, would say ... Phil: But why do you say that? Claire: For the most part I've traveled solo through Asia, I've also traveled with other people, and I have felt safer when I'm with a guy. As a female, you do get a little bit more attention. Which usually it's fine, if you're just confident and know what you're doing, you'll be fine. But there are times when it can be uncomfortable, but I think it's fine, it's just more at nighttime, you just need to be a little bit safer. Obviously don't walk around by yourself. I always say dress on the more conservative side, understand the culture of the place you're in, and you should be fine, if you're a little bit more educated and have read up on things, then have an understanding of the place you're in, then it is safe. Kim: It's been suggested that, with anything, you just pack your brain clear. Claire: Yep, yeah, I would say that. Just read up. Obviously beach resorts in Bali and Thailand, they're used to travelers and backpackers. While, if you're in the countryside, they may not see as many people. So they're just not used to how to approach you and how to talk to you, just the best way to go about things. Phil: I often, because I write some of the travel safety stuff for the World Nomads site, I often feel uncomfortable saying to women that you should dress conservatively. Because ... in an ideal world, you should be able to- Kim: Wear what you like. Phil: Wear what you like and nobody should be able to tell you. So how do you feel about that when you're traveling, is it ... respect or do you begrudge it a little? Claire: Obviously you'd like to wear what you wanna wear. I'm from Australia, I'm used to wearing shirts and a t-shirt out in summer. I think it just ... places like Thailand, they are just used to people dressing a little bit more conservatively, and I found when I do dress more conservatively, you get less attention like that. There have been times, especially when you're in your bathers, and I'm used to wearing a bikini in Australia, but when you wear something a bit more conservative, there's just less attention. It would be nice to be able to wear whatever, but I think you just need to respect the country that you're in as well. Kim: So what's conservative, a one piece, is it? Claire: Well yeah, I guess it's a hard line, isn't it? Bathers are pretty revealing. But even when I have worn, say, pants and a jumper, I've still got some unwanted attention. Phil: I have the same problem when I'm wearing my Speedos, Kim. All the unwanted attention I get there. Kim: Pretty sure you don't, really sure you don't. Allyson has suggested that I ask you about females and monks? Claire: Yep. Kim: What are the rules there? Claire: You're not meant to touch a monk as a female, that's a no-no. Obviously, you can talk to them, I've been in temples and places where they've come up and offered to give tours cause they wanna practice English. I guess you're not meant to look directly at them, you're meant to be at a lower level to them. For the most part, they love talking to people, and learning English, practicing their English, that's what I've found. Kim: It also suggests, in the guide, not to sit next to monks on public transport, look out for monk only areas in waiting rooms, women are not welcome in some temples so check the signs. Claire: Yep. Kim: And if you pass a monk on the street, let him pass by you first. Claire: Yes, yep. Kim: Lot to think about. Claire: That is correct, yeah. Phil: I'm all for showing respect for wherever you are, it's just fine, but ... that's sort of ... [crosstalk 00:22:19] Kim: Kowtowing? Phil: Yeah, a bit. Know your place, get out of the way, the monks, girls. What's, how do you balance within yourself that nexus between everybody's equal and these strange patriarchal rules. How do you deal with that internally? Claire: It all comes down to understanding and reading things about the culture and you understand. At times you're a bit like, oh, I need to really be checking myself, constantly aware of all these things. But, you've got to respect it. That's their country, that's how it's done, so that's just how I think about it. I don't take anything personally. Phil: Yeah, I think that's- Claire: It's just the culture. Kim: Well the guide says that feminism hasn't cemented itself in Thailand and in that society. Phil: Nope. Kim: So, just as there are Western men who think all Thai girls are interested in sex, there are Thais that think the same [crosstalk 00:23:20] of Western girls. Phil: Of Western girls. Claire: Yeah, yeah. Phil: Because of the way they dress sometimes, as well. Kim: But the point of this podcast is to share the guide and how it's been refreshed, but we don't wanna scare people off from traveling there. Phil: Oh no, no. Claire: No, no. It's great. I've loved, I think I've been to Thailand three times now and I've loved it every time. It's a great country to travel, yeah. Kim: She's Claire, and we will share that article in show notes, but we wanna touch on, before we go, strange laws, the royal family, and bribing. Again, in the Destination Podcast, when you were hooking this particular episode, enticing us to listen, make sure we subscribe and download. You mentioned something about making sure you wear your undies. Phil: I know, how weird is this law? It is illegal to go out in Thailand without underwear on. Kim: Man and Woman? Phil: Absolutely. Allyson: No commando. Kim: No commando? Phil: No, but I wanna know who checks. Has anybody ever actually been arrested for that? Kim: Podcast on Nomads.com. Allyson: And who determined this law, did all of a sudden somebody see somebody with no underpants and go, alright, that's not acceptable. Phil: I don't know. [crosstalk 00:24:30] Kim: That's [crosstalk 00:24:29] Phil: I'd love to know an explanation of why it's there. Allyson: You also can't drive a car shirtless, either. Kim: But you can walk around shirtless? Allyson: Apparently so. Kim: Alright. The royal family. Oh, any other strange laws before we move on to the royal family, other than nudity? Allyson: No- Phil: No, to just be respectful as well, there are areas of Thailand which are still quite conservative in their values. Just be respectful, like talking about ... put a shirt on when you leave the beach, and make sure you do cover up when you go into a temple. Allyson: Same with the girls, cover it up. Don't walk around in your bikini. Kim: Alright, let's get <g class="gr_ gr_606 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="606" data-gr-id="606">onto</g> the royal family. Why are they so important? Phil: They're a very beloved family, long tradition of great respect for the royal family, and that's actually built into their laws as well, the Lèse-majesté, I think, here's my terrible Latin, I think. Allyson: Started in 1908. Phil: Where it is illegal to be disrespectful or to insult the royal family, particularly the king. And that can mean ... Allyson: Not even stepping on a Thai baht note if it flies away, or giving the king some fancy glasses in a Gandalf beard. Phil: No drawing on the currency. Kim: Before we wrap up, just very briefly, scams too. Allyson: God, where do we start? Kim: If you look at, you will want to download the Thai safety guide, there are quite a few, from [inaudible 00:25:48] scams to gym scams to photograph scams. Allyson: Yeah, fancy bracelet scams, fake baht you name it, it's all in Thailand. Phil: The birdseed scam is a classic, it's in a particular square near the Grand Palace, near some of the more famous [inaudible 00:26:03] the temples there. There are people who you can find using bird, feeding the pigeons there that got bags of seed and will hand one of the bags of seed for you to join in with this lovely ritual of feeding the birds, and then you're gonna get charged, so that's an [inaudible 00:26:21] for the birdseed you just used. Allyson: Then you've got photo scans where you often see in the nightclub areas, people with animals, and often those animals are being poorly treated. It's really really bad, I need to get a photo of these things. Phil: Bad idea for the animal, but you're also gonna get charged for taking the photo. Allyson: Yeah, exactly. Same with the ladyboys as well. It does happen, you often have groups of ladyboys who wanna get a photo with you, and then they'll ask you for money as well. Phil: Yeah. Can I just say, I've been to Thailand a couple of times, I really like the place, it's <g class="gr_ gr_602 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation multiReplace" id="602" data-gr-id="602">fantastic.</g> The Thai people are very, very friendly, and these things could happen to you, might happen to you, but not all of them, and you could go there and none of them will happen to you. But these are the things that we need to warn you about, so you are forearmed, and you know how to avoid them and you can have a great time when you go to Thailand. Allyson: We're delving into the contents of the new and improved Thai safety guide- Phil: That's it. Kim: Beautiful, how do we get a copy of it? Allyson: You can download it from WorldNomads.com. Kim: Also just briefly, it's a really great place to travel to if you're in a same-sex relationship or LGBTQ. In fact, Thailand is making it big to become LGBT+ tourism hotspot. Phil: Fantastic. Allyson: So nothing to worry about there. Thanks for that, guys. Phil: Yeah, that's alright. [crosstalk 00:27:38] Download the guide, folks. Kim: You can access the World Nomads podcast on Stitch or Google Play, iHeartRadio, and iTunes this week. Rate, share and subscribe. Next week we're featuring another of our amazing nomads, James Bachman, he's a documentary and editorial photographer, and he's inspired most by the mountains and the sea and at the moment, he's living off his 96DR-650, and he's riding from Alaska to Patagonia. Vroom, vroom! Phil: Quite a guy. Kim: See you then. Bye! Phil: Bye! Allyson: Bye! Speaker 1: The World Nomads podcast. Explore your Boundaries. </div> </div> </div>Getty Images/SAHACHAT 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/two-week-vacation-no-problemStruggling to choose where to go for your short vacation? Nathan Anderson shares his tips on why Thailand is the perfect destination for a quick getaway.2019-07-02T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/two-week-vacation-no-problemhttps://www.worldnomads.comYou've been dreaming of it all year, and now you have a mere two weeks to make it count. What do you do? How do you do it? Relax. This shouldn't be a stressful decision. Take a breath and think about a destination that makes you smile. That's usually a good place to start. Now, pick some places that are easy to get to. What could be worse than spending the first two days of your precious vacation time holed up in airports and waiting in queues? Make your vacation destination a place you can fly direct or with minimum transfers. Also, while you're still considering a place, think about locations which don't require a good deal of time to get used to. Let me elaborate on that a bit. Feel like exploring Tibet? Awesome, but you should allow a few days to gradually <a href="/travel-safety/how-to-deal-with-altitude-sickness" target="_blank">acclimatize to the elevation </a>before you think about carrying on to the high plateau. It's tough but, with time being a precious commodity, burning three or four days getting to the point you can enjoy a place just isn't an option this time. The next step is to pick somewhere that has a variety of things to see in relatively close proximity to each other. <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/phuket-in-thailand-is-it-safe" target="_blank">Beaches</a>? <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/chiang-mai-is-it-safe" target="_blank">Hikes</a>? Historical sites? <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/5-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-going-to-thailand" target="_blank">Cultural experiences</a>? <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/thailands-full-moon-party-what-you-need-to-know-from-world-nomads" target="_blank">Nightclubs and bars</a>? All of these are great two-week vacation fodder, and being able to access your preferred activities quickly and easily is essential. That said, the next thing to consider is a tempering suggestion. With only two weeks, you have to be realistic with your expectations. You probably won't see the entirety of a country. You'll be hard-pressed to visit every highlight in your guidebook. Pick the sights and activities most important for you to experience. Keep the list as small as you can bear. Find the most <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/riding-motorbikes-in-thailand-what-are-the-rules" target="_blank">efficient way to do all of them</a>. Then you can take advantage of every last smidgen of time available to you and not feel like you're frantically trying to cram as much in as possible. One last piece of advice before you head out. Invariably, wherever you end up going will require you to travel to get from location to location. Pick a destination where the method of transport itself is an experience. Instead of an air-conditioned coach, maybe try out the slow train that chugs through the countryside and is packed with locals selling tasty food and drinks. Or take the slow boat and watch the day-to-day life of your destination's citizens slowly float past. My recommendation for a fantastic place to visit when a little time poor? Thailand. <figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/aphs.worldnomads.com/travel-tips/17484/P1050382.jpg" alt="" /><figcaption>Thai food. Photo credit: Nathan Anderson</figcaption></figure> Conveniently connected to Europe, Australia, and North America, it is also a great launching off point for seeing other countries in Asia. The climate is wonderful, though it might get a little hot in the dry season. Acclimation is a breeze, as English signs and English-speakers are found in abundance along the main tourist routes. The country also has a variety of things to do, all in relatively close proximity to <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/insiders-guide-to-bangkok">Bangkok</a>. Finally, the Thai train experience is a treat in and of itself. Prepare to try all manner of tasty local delicacies and get your Thai tea served to you in a plastic bag—all while you stare out the window and watch the countryside of Thailand pass you by. <h2>What to do with two weeks in Thailand</h2> <ul> <li>Fly into Bangkok and experience the crazy nightlife that this city has to offer (if that's your thing)</li> <li>Head south and pick a tropical island; let that tension slough off your shoulders and bask in the sun as clear, blue water laps at your toes</li> <li>Had north via the train. Walk through the ruins of Ayutthaya, defend your food from the monkeys at Lop Buri, and disembark in the wonderful city of Chiang Mai. There, try your hand at a Thai cooking class at Siam Rice Thai Cookery</li> <li>Last, but not least, brave the windy road to Pai and spend a few days relaxing in a private bungalow, hanging out with some Thai rastas, or meandering through the street market.</li> </ul> After two weeks, your vacation will end and you will go back to whatever work you were doing before - but you'll be more relaxed, more confident, more bronzed in the face. You - and everyone else around you - will know that you took those two weeks and owned them, and that you'll do the same next time. <figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/aphs.worldnomads.com/travel-tips/17484/P1040998.jpg" alt="" /><figcaption>Exploring the ruins in Thailand. Photo credit: Nathan Anderson</figcaption></figure> <h3>About the Author</h3> Nathan Anderson was born on a chilly December day in the shadow of the majestic Cascade Mountains in northwest Washington.  Since that fateful day, he has loved the cold and been obsessed with the great outdoors.  After graduating university with a degree in International Business and spending a few years doing responsible things like working hard and saving money, he decided exploring the world was a much better use of his time. Follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/openroadb4me" title="Nathan Anderson on Twitter">@openroadb4me</a> and check out his blog at <a href="https://openroadbeforeme.com/" title="The Open Road Before Me">The Open Road Before Me.</a>Getty Images/Love Silhouette 11013773080 Getty Images Wat Phra Sri Sanphet at sunset in Ayutthaya, Thailand

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/getting-tefl-certified-life-in-front-of-a-thai-classroomWant to experience a unique culture while teaching english in Thailand? Dara shares five tips to get you started on teaching in Ban Phe.2011-04-12T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/getting-tefl-certified-life-in-front-of-a-thai-classroomhttps://www.worldnomads.comI decided to it was time to take my travels to another level and apply myself to something more than just serving drinks. Working as a bartender in Australia was great fun, but I felt like I needed to start giving back, although some may argue a Bartender gives back plenty! I researched <a href="http://www.teflcourse.net/" target="_blank">TEFL International</a> and teaching abroad. There are plenty of different exotic locations available to take the course: Buenos Aires, <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/7-reasons-to-tefl-in-thailand" target="_blank">Phuket</a>, New York City, <a href="/explore/europe/france/working-holidays-in-france-embracing-the-work-life-balance" target="_blank">Paris</a>...I chose Ban Phe, Thailand. This no-name town just two hours south of Bangkok would be my home for 4 weeks. Like I said, I was reaching for a new level and wanted a raw, cultural experience during my time in the course. I also didn't want any distractions that these "oh-so-exotic" cities have to offer. <ul> <li><a href="#visas"> Thailand Visa Information </a></li> <li><a href="#student-visas"> Student Visas in Thailand </a></li> <li><a href="#ban-phe"> Living in Ban Phe </a></li> <li><a href="#party"> Partying in Thailand </a></li> <li><a href="#resources"> TEFL Resources and Advice </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="visas">Thailand Visa Information</h2> Alas, it was visa time again. All travellers know and love that time where we freak out about how, when, and how much a visa will cost, and that it never grants us enough time to stay where we want to stay.  I could have received a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Bangkok, but I decided to look a little deeper into other options. I was living in Melbourne at the time and was able to visit the Royal Thai Consulate to get more information about a student visa.  Embassies or Consulates are always the best place to ask questions and get answers. Yes, we all live and die by the internet, but, sometimes you can’t be sure where these sites get facts from, and we all know its better to be safe than sorry (especially when you are dealing with a developing or third world country). <h2 id="student-visas">Student Visas in Thailand</h2> So, the student visa granted me three months in Thailand and took less than a week to process. I had to contact the TEFL Ban Phe office to have them email me an admissions letter stating the course and dates I would be enrolled in. I simply brought the student visa application back to the Consulate, along with the TEFL letter, a copy of my passport, two passport photos and $90. I received a stamp in my passport that would stand as my visa and voila!  I was ready to start my adventure without the headache of organizing a day-long visa run to <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/cambodia/voluntourism-in-cambodia-what-to-consider-before-going" target="_blank">Cambodia</a> or Laos during the last few crucial days of the course.  <h2 id="ban-phe">Living in Ban Phe</h2> I arrived in Ban Phe and was truly introduced to the Thai culture. My experience was not tainted by touristy cafes, bars or shops. I was able to connect with local store owners and build friendships with Thais who lived in this small fishing village. A traditional, hot meal cost as little as $1 US and were in portions that didn't make my stomach feel like bursting. A few of my fellow students and I would eat lunch at a great little place called "SA's" just two doors down from the school. The owner knew us by name and made one killer cheeseburger when we were craving some fatty, American food. There was an incredible night market about 30 minutes by song thao nearby. Ban Phe had a supermarket, pharmacy, stationary store and plenty of other little “mom and pops” that would provide anything I wanted. And if there was any abstract item I may have randomly developed a need for, a larger city, Rayong was not far away. It was also just a short ferry ride to the island of Koh Sumet in case I was in need of a weekend getaway. You can check out my time in Ban Phe <a href="http://www.vimeo.com/18161173" target="_blank">here</a> for a closer look to life in that little fishing village. <h2 id="party">Partying in Thailand</h2> After the course I decided it was time to party for a few weeks. I went off to Koh Phangan, <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/koh-phi-phi-is-it-safe" target="_blank">Koh Phi Phi</a> and Koh Lanta. It was high season by that time and the islands were riddled with tourists. I would only have to walk a few feet to find an Italian restaurant or Irish Pub. Where was I?? It was as if I travelled back to America or Australia. I had experienced what I like to call “reverse culture shock.” Having been so accustomed to living amongst Thai people I was annoyed by the overkill of obnoxious Western tourists.  All I wanted to do was crawl back to my little Thai village of stray dogs and cashew chicken. As far as teaching in Thailand, it’s a different world. There will be situations to be dealt with that are unknown to the Western working world. Your boss will not speak English, you won’t be paid on time, you won’t be able to communicate with parents; the list can go on and on. If you have a university degree and a TEFL certificate your chances for finding a job in Thailand are great. If you have a degree and no certificate your chances are also great. If you have a certificate and no degree your chances are pretty good. If you have no degree and no certificate you may run into some problems. <h2 id="resources">TEFL Resources and Advice</h2> If you are looking for teaching opportunities in Thailand there is a gamut of web sites to get you started.  Here is some great advice from my TEFL teacher trainer in regards to searching for jobs: “These are, by far, not even close to ALL of the websites available to job hunting teachers, but it is a good start.  Some sites, like “ESL café,” have additional resources and board posts that can provide supplementary help for those interested.  I definitely recommend you take some time and check out the web sites and the links they include to other sites.  I didn't research agencies or listings that you have to pay for.  It wasn't really done intentionally, but agencies and listings are actually the first type of web sites you find when you use a search engine (money talks).  For some listings you have to pay a fee and some agencies take a percentage from your pay, or get paid when you get hired, so their motivation to place you in a school might not always be in your best interest.  But the possibilities are there and I encourage you to explore every option. Those that actively look for jobs will find them. The key word is actively.” <ul> <li><a href="http://eslcafe.com/" target="_blank">ESL Cafe </a></li> <li><a href="http://www.esljobs.com/" target="_blank">ESL Jobs</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.eslemployment.com/country/esl-jobs-thailand.html" target="_blank">ESL Employment</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.learn4good.com/jobs/language/english/list/country/thailand/" target="_blank">Learn 4 Good</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.totalesl.com/" target="_blank">Total ESL</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.jobmonkey.com/teaching/asia/html/thailand.html" target="_blank">Job Monkey</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.tesol.ecc.ac.th/" target="_blank">ECC Thai</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.esljobs77.com/jobs/3-Thailand-jobs?gclid=CLGk1oiUnKACFdNR6wodcSI8eA"></a><a href="http://www.esljobs77.com/jobs/3-Thailand-jobs?gclid=CLGk1oiUnKACFdNR6wodcSI8eA" target="_blank">ESL Jobs 77</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.teachabroad.com/Thailand.cfm"></a><a href="http://www.goabroad.com/teach-abroad/search/thailand/teach-abroad-1" target="_blank">Teach Abroad</a></li> <li>Or local newspapers like <a href="http://bangkokpost.com/" target="_blank">The Bangkok Post</a></li> </ul> My personal advice when teaching abroad is to step outside of your box. <a href="/explore/how-to-identify-a-tourist-huckster" target="_blank">Be a traveller, not a tourist</a>.  Don’t always go for what is easy, popular or familiar. It’s harder to assimilate into a totally different culture than to go for what you know. But, the gains are more than the losses and you will find that you survived after all is said and done and you’re a better person for doing so. <h3>About the Author</h3> After winning World Nomads' Van-tastic Adventures Tasmania leg, Dara decided it was time to pack her bags and begin her epic adventure around the world. She worked in and around Melbourne until heading to Thailand to become TEFL certified to be an ESL teacher. Her next journey will be back to Asia and then Canada. Dara 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/a-reflection-on-teaching-in-thailand-becoming-a-better-teacherTeaching English in a foreign country can have so many rewards. Caz from yTravel Blog shares five of her favourite things about teaching in Bangkok.2011-02-24T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/a-reflection-on-teaching-in-thailand-becoming-a-better-teacherhttps://www.worldnomads.comMy high school in Bangkok had never had a native speaking English teacher before, especially one that was in <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/off-the-beaten-path-thailand" target="_blank">stark contrast</a>- with my blond hair, blue eyes and skirts - to the 500 hundred boys I was soon to teach. The microphone almost slipped out of my hand, not from the humid heat, but my nerves as I stood up at the whole school assembly on my first day to introduce myself. Rows of identical faces, dressed in uniforms of white shirts and khaki shorts smiled up at me, nodding and clapping, even though none of them knew a word the strange falang was muttering to them. Were the students able to understand me by the end of my 6 month teaching contract at Wat Saket High School? A magician I am not. And while many of my boys learned new phrases and expressions, some learned a lot more and some less. But by the end of it, most had a deeper understanding of the many foreigners they see daily invading the streets of their city. They had that much needed English and foreign exposure that they, in their cardboard shacks along the Chao Phraya River, would normally never have. My success at the school was not of a quantitative measure but more of a deeper impact that so often comes when two differing cultures merge to learn that it is not the differences that separate us as much as the similarities unite us. <a href="http://www.ytravelblog.com/teach-english-overseas-2/" target="_blank">Teaching English in a foreign country</a> can have so many rewards. Here are just some that I walked away with from my time <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/7-reasons-to-tefl-in-thailand" target="_blank">teaching in Bangkok</a>. <ul> <li><a href="#culture"> Cultural Experiences </a></li> <li><a href="#friends"> Making Friends in Thailand </a></li> <li><a href="#respect"> Respect </a></li> <li><a href="#be-a-better-teacher"> Becoming a Better Teacher </a></li> <li><a href="#mai-pen-lai"> Mai Pen Lai </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="culture">Cultural Experiences</h2> Wat Saket High school is attached to Wat Saket, a well-known temple in Bangkok. Many tourists know this as The Golden Mount, or Phuu Khao Tong. We could see the Golden Mount from our converted-office bedroom on the third floor of the school building. I often took my students for walks up to the top and surrounding grounds for lessons. Wat Saket is a Royal Temple, and religious ceremonies are often held here. One of the privileges of teaching at Wat Saket was that Craig and I were invited to many of these ceremonies; ceremonies that falangs would otherwise never get the chance to be a witness of. It is Thai custom for all young men to be ordained and a very famous Thai singing superstar chose to be ordained at Wat Saket as a monk for 2 weeks. As we were on a cultural exchange program, and I was a teacher at the school, we were invited.  The temple, and our school, was filled with hundreds of fans, celebrities, and journalists witnessing the historic event. Although we could not understand a word of the ceremony, our friend and mentor Gai, translated as best as she could. We watched with fascination as his head was shaved and cleaned. Adorned in white robes he walked around the temple three times, or should I say shuffled, with the amount of people clambering around to just get one touch. We were then given access to the intimate ceremony within the temple where he changed into his orange robe and was given his monks bowl so he could receive alms from the people early each morning. The prayers and chanting then rang on into the afternoon and good luck coins wrapped in orange cellophane were thrown out in the crowd. Mine is still pasted into my journal. <figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/aphs.worldnomads.com/workandholiday/7093/Thai_celebrity_being_ordained.jpg" /><figcaption>A Thai celebrity being ordained. Photo credit: Caz Makepeace/yTravel Blog</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="friends">Friends</h2> There is a gentle calm and light-hearted friendliness that comes with my relationships with my Thai family. Every moment spent with them was filled with laughter as we tried to understand each other and work out the different ways we thought. Jintina, one of the most kind-spirited person I have ever met, became our guide, mother,  friend and a very supportive colleague for me at school. Whenever I needed a hug, or a talk she was there to, not remind me of my problems of challenges, but to show me what was so wonderful about my life. She gathered her friends and ex-students together and we would spend almost every Friday night going out to dinner, watching movies and eating ice-cream. There was nothing Jintana wouldn't do for you and she showed us what true friendship really means. In Thailand it is quite normal for teachers to hold friendships with their students. The students often took us for weekend excursions to nearby historical sites, as well as to coastal towns such as Pattaya to see famous Cabaret performances. They taught us how to cook Thai style, helped us learn the language, showed us “local” Bangkok, which included where to get the best massages, the most delicious food, and the best camera equipment. <h2 id="respect">Respect</h2> “Whatever you do, do not throw your books on the desk, as Western people are so apt to do. The book is a giver of knowledge and Thai people treat it with the utmost respect.” I was soon to learn how much respect Thais hold for many things - Buddha, teachers, knowledge, each other. My eyes were open as to how easy it is to respect things, and just how much of a gift respect is. The Wai is a sign of respect in Thailand. This is when two hands are brought together in prayer style and touched, depending on your level of authority, on a persons chest, chin or forehead. The higher your level of authority, the higher the Wai is and the lower the person's body becomes. There was not a minute walking down the school halls, where I would not be given a Wai by a passing student. Their hands would come together prayer style to their forehead and many of the students would crouch down, almost to a crawl, to ensure they would be lower than me. They would race to my desk at the end of class, in order to have the privilege of carrying my books and chat with me as we walked to the next class together. The teacher, the giver of knowledge, is second to only Buddha in terms of respect. At first I felt uncomfortable, with my Aussie egalitarian upbringing, but I soon learned to appreciate the reverence and importance of honouring those who have walked before you. And even though the student was considered lower than me, by accepting their form of respect, I was showing my reverence for them in return. Now when I return to Western schools and receive abuse from students, I miss my Thai students who understood the value of education and honouring the worth of all people. <h2 id="be-a-better-teacher">Becoming a Better Teacher</h2> Of course, teaching in Bangkok helped me to learn how to become a better teacher. I learned how to get my message across in very simplified non-verbal ways. There is a lot you can communicate with a song, a drama reenactment and a jump to the floor. I learned how to listen and understand what others are trying to say when they don't really have the words to say it. Of course there was the technical side of things that came with planning lessons for a class of 40 boys where some students could hold a conversation, yet others could not even say hello. Organizing and running an English 2 night camp was one of the highlights of my teaching in Bangkok. To see the delight on the students faces as they swam,  many for the first time, in the ocean. I'm not sure they enjoyed the English games we played and songs we sang as much as they did their nighttime private room parties! <h2 id="mai-pen-lai">Mai Pen Lai</h2> I could not write a post about living in Thailand without writing about Mai Pen Lai or the Thai belief in “No worries.” It was probably not for many months after I had left Thailand that I realized just how much this state of being had now metamorphosed itself into my soul. I began to feel quite shocked at how stressed those in the Western world around me seemed to be, and how much they worried about the simplest and smallest of things. In Thai culture, there really is no worries. No matter what is happening in your life, you can always wear a smile, and you can always be grateful for what you have. There is always someone worse off then you. After a return visit in 2006, Craig and I were toasting to our five-year honeymoon in the streets of Bangkok. Unbeknownst to us, our plane bound for Sydney where our families eagerly awaited our arrival, took off over our heads. We discovered our SNAFU later that evening as Jintina took us to the airport to catch our flight. “Mai Pen Lai Caroline. There will be another plane tomorrow. You spend more time with Thai family now.” I only hope that my students learned as much from me as I did from my time teaching and living in Bangkok. We still keep in contact with many of them, and our first port of call whenever we arrive back to Bangkok is to Wat Saket High School. Although my students are long gone, my beloved teaching colleagues still welcome Craig and I with open arms, and together we hunt down old students to catch up over dinner, the movies, and some ice-cream. <figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/aphs.worldnomads.com/workandholiday/7093/scan0056.jpg" /><figcaption>Caz with her students in Thailand. Photo credit: Caz Makepeace/yTravel Blog</figcaption></figure> <h3>About the Author </h3> Caz Makepeace has been living and travelling the world since 1997, both solo and as a couple, and now with a three year old. Her husband, Craig, and her believe life is all about the memories and so travel to create more of them. Their travel tips, and stories at <a href="http://www.ytravelblog.com/" target="_blank">yTravel blog</a> aim to inspire and teach others to make their life a story to tell. Come join them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/yTravelBlog/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and follow them on <a href="http://twitter.com/ytravelblog" target="_blank">twitter</a>. Caz Makepeace/yTravel Blog 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/5-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-going-to-thailandNomad Ronan offers his tips on Thai culture, how to save money, how to stay safe, useful Thai phrases to learn, and the best time of year to go to Thailand.2024-12-06T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/5-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-going-to-thailandhttps://www.worldnomads.comHeaded to Thailand for the first time? It is a beautiful and fascinating country, but there are some things you should be careful of when visiting. Check out these travel tips to help avoid trouble and make the most of your trip, gleaned from my eight years of living on and off in Thailand, where my wife was born and raised. <a href="/explore/guides/thailand-itinerary">Traveling to Thailand soon? Download our free 14 day itinerary to discover the best of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, the Golden Triangle, and more.</a> <ul> <li><a href="#safety">Is it safe to travel to Thailand?</a></li> <li><a href="#health">Staying healthy in Thailand</a></li> <li><a href="#culture">Thai culture and etiquette</a></li> <li><a href="#weather">Managing Thailand's weather</a></li> <li><a href="#when">Best time to visit Thailand</a></li> <li><a href="#cheap">Is Thailand expensive?</a></li> <li><a href="#phrases">Learn some useful Thai phrases </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="safety">Is it safe to travel to Thailand?</h2> Thailand is a very safe country for travelers who use common sense. Those who don’t can get <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/phuket-in-thailand-is-it-safe">scammed</a>, sick, <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/police-what-you-need-to-know">arrested</a>, or badly injured. The most dangerous aspect of Thailand is its roads. And, according to the Bangkok Post, <a href="https://www.islands.com/1570773/top-cause-tourist-injury-thailand-unexpected-scooter-dangerous/">motorcyclists account for 74% of road fatalities in Thailand</a>. Don’t rent a motorbike unless you’re an experienced motorcyclist (and <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/riding-motorbikes-in-thailand-what-are-the-rules">properly licensed to ride a motorbike</a>). Be extra careful when crossing roads, as many motorcyclists ignore red lights and zebra crossings. And if you hire a car, drive more slowly and cautiously than you would back home, as the traffic is remarkably unpredictable. Motorbikes are liable to pull straight out in front of your car without even looking, as I learned myself during one accident. <h2 id="health">Staying healthy in Thailand</h2> Never drink the tap water, and be wary of filtered water and drinks with ice in cheaper venues. Most of the times I’ve been sick in southeast Asia have been linked to ice or supposedly filtered water. Avoid eating seafood in towns distant from the coast, as the fish may not be fresh. Finally, when going to street vendors or small restaurants, avoid the pre-cooked foods sitting in pots and pans and instead order a specific dish so it will be prepared right there and then. <h2 id="culture">Thai culture and etiquette</h2> On my first trip to Thailand, I learned a swift lesson: never say anything disrespectful about the Thai royal family. I watched a drunken Englishman get slapped in the face and dragged out of a Phuket bar after making a joke about the Thai king. Don’t be that guy. Refrain from making negative remarks about the Royals in Thailand and be sure to join Thai people in standing silently to attention for the national anthem, which is played at 6pm every day in public spaces. Another tip: be relaxed and polite <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/tipping-and-haggling-how-to-get-it-right-on-the-road">when haggling</a>. Some travelers take this activity very seriously, and it fails them. Meanwhile I’ve always had great success by being jovial while bargaining with Thai vendors, who enjoy a friendly back-and-forth exchange about price. Thai people take hygiene very seriously, so you should too. Many Thai people shower up to three times a day, to ensure their cleanliness in the hot and humid environment. They’re also meticulous with keeping their houses clean, so if you’re invited to visit a Thai home, dress neatly and remove your shoes before entering. Temples are sacred spaces – <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/respectful-travel">treat them as such</a>. Don’t enter a temple when wearing scruffy or skimpy clothes. Be quiet and reserved, and don’t take photos of people when they’re praying. Simple, really. Don’t raise your voice in public, especially to a Thai person. Showing frustration or anger outside of your home is considered a loss of face in Thai culture, both for you and the recipient of your excess emotions. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/5-things/night-market-getty-519087080.jpg" alt="Crowds of shoppers and diners at the night market in Bangok's Chinatown." /> <figcaption>A night market in Bangkok. Image credit: Getty Images / aluxum</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="weather">Managing Thailand's weather</h2> Thai weather can be <a href="/create/learn/how-to-stay-safe-and-hydrated">brutally hot</a>, bracingly humid and, on occasions, very wet. When it comes to dealing with the challenging Thai climate, timing is everything, and it’s important to pace yourself. On my first visit, I was so intent on maximizing my stay that I went out sightseeing from morning to night, non-stop. Within four days I was exhausted and ill. Lesson learned. Most of Thailand’s best experiences don’t involve air conditioning – exploring temples, markets, beaches, and forests – so you need a gameplan. Thailand’s weather is coolest in the mornings and late afternoons so that’s when you should be at your busiest. In the middle of the day, chill out at your hotel or in a restaurant. Before you book your trip to Thailand, find out <a href="/travel-insurance/destinations/thailand">how travel insurance can cover</a> adventure activities, lost or stolen baggage, sudden illness and more. <h2 id="when">Best time to visit Thailand</h2> Even more important than the time of day is picking the right time of year to visit. Thailand’s wet season runs from May to October. Southern Thailand – home to tropical resorts such as Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi – gets the worst of that weather. If you travel to Thailand during that period, the north is much drier. One positive is Thailand’s rain tends to arrive in occasional downpours, as opposed to constant drizzling. So, after sheltering during those heavy showers, you can head back out. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/5-things/wat-chaiwatthanaram-getty-1160947260.jpg" alt="Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand.." /> <figcaption>Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a Buddhist temple in the city of Ayutthaya Historical Park. Image credit: Getty Images / Srinophan69</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="cheap">Is Thailand expensive?</h2> It’s possible to have an extremely low-cost holiday in Thailand, particularly if you stay in modest accommodation and eat street food. What surprises many visitors, however, is that some things are more expensive in Thailand than they are back home. Take wine, for example. Bottles of cheap Australian wine that would cost me US $6 (AUD $8) back in Perth, go for US $20 (THB 653) in Thailand. Imported beers, too, are more expensive in Thailand than in Europe, the US, or Australia. All imported alcohol is heavily taxed. Visitors also tend to be shocked by the high cost of foods such as cheese, sliced meats, and imported Western snacks. The good news is Thai food is consistently excellent and remarkably cheap. Street vendors, basic restaurants, and shopping center food courts all serve delicious dishes such as green curry, basil chicken, and Khao Soi noodle soup for as little as US $1 (THB 33) per dish. And very cheap nights out can be had by sticking to local bars and restaurants, where bottles of refreshing Thai beer start from US $2 (THB 66) each. <h2 id="phrases">Learn some useful Thai phrases</h2> Thailand has one of the lowest rates of English-speaking proficiency among Asian countries, so you should make the effort to learn some Thai before visiting. There’s no need for you to memorize dozens of Thai phrases, but it’s <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/guides/thai-travel-phrasebook">good to know a few</a>, and the Thai people you meet will appreciate your effort. Here are some suggestions, in phonetic style. When you meet someone, greet them with “Sawa dee”. To thank them, say “Khob Khun Kap” if you are a man, or “Khob Khun Ka” if you are a woman. Read that last sentence carefully, as for quite a while I mistakenly changed from “Kap” to “Ka” depending on the sex of the person I was talking to, when it was only my gender that mattered. When bidding farewell, sign off with “Chok dee”, which translates to “good luck”. When ordering food, it’s best to ask for a moderate amount of chili by saying “Mai Pet Mak”. If you ignore that advice you’ll probably be left asking “Hongnam you-tee-nye” which means, “where is the toilet?” You’ll also be desperately asking for some water, which in Thai sounds like “Chan kor diim naam”.Getty Images / Deejpilot 1464576046 Getty Images Longtail boats on Railay Beach, Thailand.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/off-the-beaten-path-thailandBreak away from the crowds in Thailand and discover secluded islands, secret temples, and pristine beaches you might have all to yourself.2023-10-18T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/off-the-beaten-path-thailandhttps://www.worldnomads.comThailand has changed since my first trips to the country, when pan-handling elephants still trawled the backpacker ghetto around Khao San Road and tripped-out hippies in elephant-print pants still shuffled among the trishaw riders. The elephants and the hippies have long since disappeared, but the elephant-print pants are to be seen in greater profusion than ever and the last of the trishaw riders are still pedaling onwards (if you know where to find them). <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/insiders-guide-to-bangkok">Bangkok is one of the world’s most popular city destinations</a> yet, even in the Thai capital, it only takes a little determination to find uncrowded and almost completely unknown locations. More than a third of Thailand is still covered in jungle and there are more than 1,988mi (3,200km) of coastline so – even within easy reach of the city, and among surprisingly accessible islands – there’s endless potential for getting off the beaten track. <a href="/explore/guides/thailand-itinerary">Traveling to Thailand soon? Download our free 14 day itinerary to discover the best of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, the Golden Triangle, and more.</a> <ul> <li><a href="#hidden">Bangkok’s hidden spots</a></li> <li><a href="#river">The river islands of Bangkok</a></li> <li><a href="#triangle">Exploring the Golden Triangle</a></li> <li><a href="#paradise">“Paradise” overlooked: accessible places without the crowds</a></li> <li><a href="#beaches">Where to find pristine beaches and islands in Thailand</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="hidden">Bangkok’s hidden spots</h2> I spent a lot of time based in Thailand (shortly before the pandemic) researching a book called simply Secret Bangkok. In what was famous at the time as the world’s number-one city destination, it had seemed a tall order to hunt down more than 100 secret sights, yet the city that’s known officially as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthrayutthhaya Maha Dilokphop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Maha Sathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit (usually referred to in Thai simply as Krung Thep) is home to many well-kept secrets. You might need to work hard – or hire a very good guide – if you want to meet the female spirits of Bangkok’s most haunted temple (Wat Prasat) or to visit the community that sells flammable gifts for ghosts (in Charoen Chai). Few people are familiar with the renegade Laotian musicians who still create famous flutes (at Baan Lao – the Laos House) or Bangkok’s “Little Lisbon” Portuguese quarter (locals know it as Kudichin). Just 5mi (8km) south of city center, there’s even a temple decorated with images of Mickey Mouse, Captain America, Che Guevara, and David Beckham! <h2 id="river">The river islands of Bangkok</h2> Greater Bangkok is divided by the great Chao Phraya River and criss-crossed by a spider’s web of canals. Visitors are often surprised to find that the nearest island lies just a tuk-tuk ride from the business district. Bang Krachao is a 6mi2 (16km2) island (created by a man-made canal that cut off the neck of the oxbow) lying just south of the city. It’s the ideal place to escape the clamour of the city by spending a day <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/cycling-travel-insurance">cycling</a> and picnicking in rural backwaters. Koh Kret (to the north and technically in Nonthaburi district) is a smaller island that is famous for its fishing communities and ancient pottery traditions. Even within minutes of the city center there are canal communities that tourists rarely see. From Pra Athit Pier you can take an excitingly speedy longtail boat into the western canals that are still home to descendants of the Mon people. <h2 id="triangle">Exploring the Golden Triangle</h2> From Doi Inthanon Mountain – known as the “Roof of Thailand” and considered a part of the Himalayan Range – down to the relative lowlands of the Mekong River, Thailand’s northern region offers a world of adventure. Chiang Mai is the usual base from which to explore this region with its so-called hill-tribe communities, but smaller Pai (very kitsch in a bohemian sort of way) has become increasingly popular. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/off-beaten-path/doi-inthanon-mountain.jpg" alt="Two pagodas at the top of Doi Inthanon Mountain in northern Thailand." /> <figcaption>Pagodas near the summit of Doi Inthanon Mountain. Image credit: Getty Images / Prapass Pulsub</figcaption></figure> Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary (inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List) offers an almost unique – although far from guaranteed – opportunity to spot wild Thai tigers, along with leopards and five other wild cat species. The spectacular wetland wilderness of Talay Bua Daeng (Red Lotus Sea), meanwhile, is a lure for birdwatchers. <h2 id="paradise">“Paradise” overlooked: accessible places without the crowds</h2> Perhaps in a single-minded attempt to get as far “off the beaten track” as possible, travelers and <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/backpacking">backpackers</a> have tended to overlook more accessible locations like Ko Samed (sometimes spelled Samet) and Koh Chang. The island of Ko Samed/Samet can be reached in less than three hours by taxi (and ferry) from Bangkok. (Be careful, however, because there’s a second Ko Samet/Samed about 215mi/350km to the southwest.) While there are some overdeveloped resorts and a party zone on the northern Ko Samed, you only need to head to more secluded bays to find little patches of veritable paradise of the sort that have long since disappeared on supposedly remoter islands. Ko Chang (a five-hour drive east of Bangkok and Thailand’s third largest island) lies just 2.5mi (4km) from the mainland. You would think that this accessibility would have condemned the island to overdevelopment but, as part of the 250mi2 (650km2) Mu Ko Chang National Park, much of the forested interior of Ko Chang main island is still protected. What’s more, there are 51 other islands in the Ko Chang archipelago with many of them rarely seeing a visitor. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/off-beaten-path/mangrove-forest-koh-chang.jpg" alt="A womam walks along a boardwalk through a mangrove forest on Ko Chang, Thailand." /> <figcaption>A mangrove forest on Ko Chang. Image credit: Getty Images / AzByCx</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="beaches">Where to find pristine beaches and islands in Thailand</h2> The best-selling novel The Beach might have rung the death toll for some of Thailand’s most beautiful spots but, with an official count of 1,430 islands, there’ll always be a pristine tropical haven if you take time looking for it. Shortly after the 2004 tsunami, I was sent on a CNN assignment to cover the plight of the Moken people (the last of the nomadic “Sea Gypsies”). It was the pre-Google Earth era, and I ended up hitching a ride on a fishing boat that went so far into the tangle of islands in the Andaman Sea that I was unsure if we’d accidentally encroached illegally into Burmese waters. On that trip, I landed on several beaches that had very likely never seen a foreign footprint. Mu Ko Surin Marine Park (about 37mi/60km offshore and a favorite <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/scuba-diving-travel-insurance">dive location</a>) is still home to Moken people and has some idyllic camping spots and low-key bungalows. Phuket Island is the tourist hub for the Andaman Sea area, but the Phi Phi islands are an accessible launching pad for wilder beach-bumming. Just beware that Phi Phi Le is no longer quite as it appeared when it served as the backdrop to The Beach movie. You’ll need to get there early to avoid the crowds, but you can expect to have nearby Ko Bida and Ko Maipai almost to yourself at any time. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/thailand/off-beaten-path/ang-thong.jpg" alt="Green islands and turquiose sea in Ang Thong National Marine Park, Thailand." /> <figcaption>Islands in Ang Thong National Marine Park. Image credit: Getty Images / Vera Shestak</figcaption></figure> Koh Samui sees the bulk of tourism in the Gulf of Thailand while neighboring Koh Phangan, considerably less developed, becomes a tourist boomtown only around full moon each month. Even in this area there are hidden gems. Few people seem to even be aware, for example, that Ang Thong National Marine Park (lying between Ko Samui and the mainland) boasts no fewer than 42 rarely visited islands.Getty Images / holgs 1586934360 Getty Images A secluded beach on Koh Samet island in Thailand.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/7-reasons-to-tefl-in-thailandCrystal Gale – i-to-i’s teaching abroad expert – shares her top tips to make sure your TEFL job turns out as you expect in Thailand.2010-11-09T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/7-reasons-to-tefl-in-thailandhttps://www.worldnomads.comIt’s hardly difficult to see <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/6-backpacking-tips-for-staying-safe-in-thailand" target="_blank">Thailand’s</a> appeal, what with its <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/off-the-beaten-path-thailand" target="_blank">gorgeous beaches</a>, buzzing cities and fantastic food – but just in case you need a little persuading as to how amazing TEFLing there would be, check out these seven reasons to teach in Thailand. <h2>1. Enthusiastic kids</h2> Don’t believe anyone who tells you that your students will be calm and attentive. However, they will be enthusiastic, raucous and desperate to learn. Once you’ve learnt how to calm the classroom chaos, you’ll find the teaching to be fun, challenging and very rewarding – and if it all gets too much, there’ll always be plenty of local teachers on hand to help you. <h2>2. Weekend trips</h2> Forget a quick shopping trip, teaching in Thailand means you can take your weekends to a whole new level! Take a sleeper train to Chiang Mai, in the heart of Thailand’s hill country; relax on one of the southern Thai islands; get lost in local night markets... the list goes on! <h2>3. Rock-bottom livingcosts</h2> Thailand is an amazingly cheap place to live, especially when it comes to going out and enjoying yourself! A slap-up meal in a Thai restaurant costs just 250 baht (around £5/$7), and with beers costing 60 baht (around £1/$1.80), there’s no need to save that big night out just for paydays! <h2>4. Friendly people</h2> It’s not difficult to see why some people refer to Thailand as the ‘Land of Smiles’ – everyone seems to walk around with one permanently glued to their face! People here will go out of their way to make sure you get settled in and looked after – great if you’re new in town! <h2>5. Parties</h2> When you think of calm, serene Thailand, you usually don’t think of the parties that go on, but the country certainly has a hedonistic side. Take the infamous Full Moon Parties on Kho Pha Ngan that take place every month – imagine 20,000 revellers packing out a beach, buckets full of booze and dozens of sound-systems pumping out great music until the sun comes up. <h2>6. Street Food</h2> Take a journey of discovery through the street food stalls of Bangkok (or any other large Thai city) and you’ll be able to sample everything from deep-fried flowers to pad thai. Street food in Thailand is fresh, cheap and fabulously cooked – lots of vendors specialise in particular dishes, so ask them what they’d recommend and enjoy! <h2>7. Temples</h2> If you’re a culture junkie, you’ll love Thailand, with a massive 40,717 temples scattered across this beautiful country. Immerse yourself in their tranquil atmosphere, clear your mind and prepare yourself for your students’ next onslaught. <h3>Want to Know More?</h3> You can get your <a title="Teach Overseas website" target="_blank" href="http://www.i-to-i.com/">TEFL qualification</a> or find a work placement through <a href="http://www.i-to-i.com/" target="_blank">i-to-i’s</a> Teach English abroad website. Getty Images/Abraham 1962954154 Getty Images Wat Phra Kaew – the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/6-backpacking-tips-for-staying-safe-in-thailandNomadic Matt shares his top 6 tips for backpacker safety in Thailand.2025-06-30T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/6-backpacking-tips-for-staying-safe-in-thailandhttps://www.worldnomads.comThailand is a popular destination for all <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/women-s-safety-in-thailand" target="_blank">different types of travelers</a>. It’s especially a common stop for backpackers and round-the-world the travelers because of its cheap and delicious food, beautiful beaches, great diving, and friendly people. It’s an easy place to travel. However, that doesn’t mean nothing can go wrong. In fact, a lot of things can go wrong. While travel in Thailand is easy and amazing, there are some dangers to avoid. <ul> <li><a href="#thai-king"> Don’t talk about the King </a></li> <li><a href="#drinks"> Watch your drinks </a></li> <li><a href="#eat-like-a-local"> Eat where the locals do </a></li> <li><a href="#red-light"> Avoid the red-light areas </a></li> <li><a href="#drugs"> Don’t do drugs </a></li> <li><a href="#scams"> Say no to scams </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="thai-king">1. Don’t talk about the King</h2> The king is a revered figure and viewed as a God by many Thais. Talking about him is taboo. Moreover, <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/a-travellers-guide-to-thailands-laws">Thailand has some of the toughest Lese Majeste laws</a> in the world. It’s like fight club: you simply don’t talk about it. Never mention his name or your thoughts about him. Bringing him up can bring about serious consequences. Thais love their king and they may forgive you for not knowing better and asking but try to dig deeper and you will just bring misery and maybe even jail time. <h2 id="drinks">2. Watch your drinks</h2> Be careful when getting drinks at the bar. If you’re in <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/phuket-in-thailand-is-it-safe">touristy areas</a> or places that seem seedy, watch who makes your drinks. There have been many reports of foreigners getting drugged and robbed in popular destinations. I once got drugged in Thailand but luckily I had friends their to watch me. Not everyone is so lucky. Be careful and <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/drink-spiking">don’t accept drinks from strangers</a>. <h2 id="eat-like-a-local">3. Eat where the locals do</h2> If you want to eat some of the best Thai food in the country, you have to eat on the streets. The best food in Thailand is found there, but to avoid getting sick, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/eat-like-a-local-when-you-travel">eat where the locals do</a>. The food will most likely be better and fresher. I made the mistake of going somewhere else to avoid a line and I paid for it all night. <h2 id="red-light">4. Avoid the red-light areas</h2> Thailand is famous for its red light districts. From <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/thailand/insiders-guide-to-bangkok" target="_blank">Bangkok</a> to Phuket to Pattaya, lots of people come here for the sex and the seediness of these areas.  However, it is in these areas that most of the bad things in Thailand happen. From robberies to drugging to getting ripped off, everything happens here. If you want to avoid these things, avoid these areas. They aren’t worth visiting. I’ve had friends detained in bars by scary men for refusing to pay an overcharged bill.   <h2 id="drugs">5. Don’t do drugs</h2> You can find drugs in Thailand and if you are out partying, you may get offered it often. Don’t do it. Drugs are illegal in Thailand; this may include marijuana (it's legality has gone back and forth throughout the years - be sure to check the most current rules if you intend to partake). You’ve seen the movie “Brokedown Palace”? That happens. Often times, dealers will sell you drugs, report you to the police, and they will come and arrest you. To get out, <a href="/travel-safety/southeast-asia/thailand/police-what-you-need-to-know" target="_blank">you might have to pay a large bribe</a>. Avoid the situation and don’t do drugs. <h2 id="scams">6. Say no to scams</h2> There are a lot of scams in Thailand. If people offer you anything on the street, just say no. Especially avoid the tuk tuk drivers in Bangkok. They will take you around to shops of low quality because they get a kick back while overcharging you for the ride. Moreover, if they say a temple is closed, don’t listen. My first trip to Thailand I fell for that scam and only realized it after I was in the car. If you want to buy something, simply ask other travelers or your hotel on where to go. <a href="http://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-guides/thailand-travel-tips/" target="_blank">Traveling Thailand</a> is relatively easy and safe. You rarely hear of anything going wrong. And when you do, it is often because people ended up doing something they shouldn’t have.  However, that doesn’t mean that danger isn’t there. There are many scams and tricks played on the tourists. Keeping your head about you, using some common sense, and the tips above can ensure a safe and fun trip to Thailand. Behind the Backpack Matthew Kepnes has been traveling around the world for decades. He runs the award winning budget travel site, <a href="http://www.nomadicmatt.com/" target="_blank">Nomadic Matt</a>. He has been featured in The New York Times, The Guardian UK, and Yahoo! Finance. For more information, <a href="https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blog/" target="_blank">subscribe to his blog</a>.iStock/lzf 0596067396 iStock Woman hiker enjoy the view at sunrise mountain peak cliff