FAQ Thailand and Bangkok
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Is it save there?
Yes absolutely, it's probably safer than most cities in the West. No problem to walk around in the middle of the night. Just don't go into the really small streets at 4am (although they are generally safe as well) Bangkok is probably one of the safest cities you can find. There is one exception though, traffic, do not try to cross the street with your eyes closed, they drive their cars as if it was a boat swinging it from left to right. The south of Thailand is a different story, the muslim minority their doesn't really like the Thais and thus want their own state. To make their point they use bombs and other violent activities, far from war but just mind the most southern provinces (Phuket is not one of these and is safe)
When somebody says "Thailand" I think of a third world country, is it?
Wake up!!! Thailand and other South-East Asian countries have develop rapidly resulting in highly modern cities. With a skytrain and a subway running through Bangkok you will be amazed by what they are capable of. However there is a big gap between rich and poor so most cars on the streets are the more expensive ones, no crappy old cars here (except for a few old taxis) All facilities and services you need are available so no worries.
Can you bribe the cops?
Yes you can, it's a national sport to negotiate fines. If you're being stopped by police for something you did wrong (or not) it is possible to negotiate your fine. A 100 Bath note in your driving licence should take care of any trouble.
Is it cheap?
Yes and no. Food, clothes and everyday life are much cheaper. Luxury goods and tradable goods however are just as expensive or a little bit cheaper. Don't expect to buy a new camera in Bangkok for half the price as prices are about the same throughout the world. Rule of thumb is that if the product is made locally it's cheap, if it comes from abroad it's expensive. Alcohol is also relatively expensive due to high government taxes but still cheaper than western countries.
The street food looks good but can I eat it without getting sick?
Yes, the street food in general is very good since they only use fresh ingredients. Just make sure it is cooked in front of your eyes and it has been heated sufficiently. Ice for your drinks is safe as well as long as there is a hole in the middle, this means it is made in a factory.
A friendly Tuk Tuk driver took me to a tailor, did I get a good deal?
Probably not, the Tuk Tuk drivers get commission for bringing in tourists meaning you're paying him. The effect on the price you paid is obvious. For a good tailor you have to shop around a bit, just visit three or four shops and ask for prices. Suits start for prices as low as 3000 Bath (70 dollars) depending on the fabric you choose. The most important in these shops is negotiate, it's fairly easy to get 20 percent of the price.
How is their English?
Poor but improving, most people speak little to no English but with improved education the younger generation speaks better English. Students from universities often are fluent since there are a lot of international programs. Probably the most important Thai words you have to know is how to tell a taxi driver where to go. In tourist area's English is widely spoken though: "You sir, special price for you"
Are movies in the cinema synchronized into Thai?
No, all movies are in English with Thai subtitles. Most times the Thai movies have English subtitles making them accessible for foreigners, a must see! Outside of Bangkok however movies can be completely in Thai with no English subtitles, please check before entering the cinema.
When is the rainy season in Thailand?
The raining season starts at the end of june and continues until the end of october. This does not mean that it rains all the time though but if it rains you better get inside.
Can I stay longer than 1 month on my tourist visa?
Yes but you have to go to the immigration office in Sathorn soi 3 where you can extend it for 1 month. You can also leave the country and come back in again. This is often faster than waiting at the immigration office. Never overstay on your visa, this is a serious crime.
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FAQ Thailand