is thailand safe for tourists

Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Thailand

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Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Thailand

Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Thailand: Tips From Pattaya

One of the first questions every tourist asks when they land in Bangkok is how to get to Pattaya without paying for a private taxi. That was us too, on our first trip. We paid way too much. And that was only the beginning of the things I wish I knew before going to Thailand. This blog gives you the tips from our experience, from getting around to money to culture, so your trip goes much smoother than ours did at the start.

1. How to Get from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya Without Overpaying

Many tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport get approached by private taxi drivers asking 1,500 to 2,000 THB to go to Pattaya. You do not need to pay that.

The best option is the Roong Reuang Coach bus:

  • Price: 149 THB per person
  • Route: Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya or Jomtien Beach
  • Departures: Every hour from 07:00 to 21:00
  • Journey time: Around 2 hours
  • Booking: www.rrcticket.com

If you are coming from central Bangkok (not the airport), you can also take the bus from Ekkamai or Mo Chit bus terminal for only 131 THB.

For door-to-door service, Bell Travel Service picks you up from Suvarnabhumi and drops you directly at your hotel in Pattaya. Departures at 08:30, 10:30, 12:30, 14:30, 16:30, and 18:00.

We wrote a full guide about the North Pattaya Bus Station, check that out for more transport options.

2. Get a SIM Card at the Airport : Things I Wish I Knew in Thailand

Before you leave the arrivals hall at Suvarnabhumi, buy a tourist SIM card in Thailand. You will find AIS, DTAC, and True Move counters right there. A 30-day unlimited data SIM costs around 500 to 700 THB.

You will need mobile data immediately, for Grab, Google Maps, and checking your hotel booking. Do not wait until you reach your destination.

3. Always Use Grab or Bolt, Not Random Taxis

In Bangkok and Pattaya, always use the Grab or Bolt app for rides. The price is fixed before you get in. No negotiation, no scams.

Regular taxis in Bangkok are supposed to use the meter, but many will try to agree on a flat price instead, which is almost always higher. Always insist on the meter, or just use Grab.

In Pattaya, the local songthaews (blue pickup trucks) are cheap for short trips, around 20 to 30 THB per person on the main routes. They run along Beach Road and Second Road. Just wave one down and hop in.

4. Thai ATMs Charge THB Fee: Prepare Before You Go

Every ATM in Thailand charges foreign cards from a 220 to 350 THB fee per withdrawal. To reduce fees, withdraw larger amounts less often.

Also, Thai ATMs return your cash before your card. Many tourists walk away and forget their card. It happens more than you think. Wait for the card before you leave the machine.

Exchange counters (especially Superrich in Bangkok) also give better rates than airport exchange booths.

5. Best Time to Visit Thailand: What I Wish I Knew Before Going

Thailand has two main seasons:

  • Dry season (November to April): The best time to visit. Clear skies, good swimming conditions, temperatures around 25 to 32 degrees Celsius (77 to 90 Fahrenheit). December and January are the most popular months, book accommodation early.
  • Rainy season (May to October): Heavy rain, especially in the afternoons. Fewer tourists, cheaper hotels. Some island ferries reduce service. For Pattaya, the rainy season is manageable, rain usually comes in short bursts, not all day.

From our experience, visiting Pattaya in the rainy season can actually save you a lot of money on hotels, and the sea is still swimmable on most days.

6. Dress Code at Temples: Cover Your Shoulders and Knees

Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Thailand

When visiting temples like Wat Phra Khao Pra Yai at Phatamnuk hill or The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, you must cover your shoulders and knees. Both men and women.

If you arrive in shorts and a sleeveless top, you will be turned away or asked to rent a cover-up at the entrance. Save yourself the trouble, pack a light scarf or sarong in your bag. It takes no space and you will thank yourself.

At The Sanctuary of Truth, the dress code is strictly enforced. We have a full article about The Sanctuary of Truth Pattaya with everything you need to know before you go.

7. Do Not Drink the Tap Water in Thailand

Tap water in Thailand is not safe to drink. Always buy bottled water. The good news, a 1.5L bottle costs around 18 to 20 THB at 7-Eleven. It is very cheap. Many hotels and condos provide free drinking water.

8. 7-Eleven Is Your Best Friend in Thailand

Thailand has 7-Eleven stores everywhere, on almost every street, open 24 hours. You can get:

  • Cheap meals (sandwiches, rice dishes, noodles) for 35 to 60 THB
  • Bottled water and drinks
  • SIM card top-ups
  • Basic medicine (paracetamol, antacids)
  • Sunscreen, toiletries
  • ATM cash withdrawals

Do not underestimate 7-Eleven. We used it every single day.

9. Respect the Royal Family: This Is Serious

Thailand has a lese-majeste law. Speaking negatively about the King or Royal Family is a criminal offence that can lead to prison. This is not a joke and it applies to tourists too.

Portraits of the King are displayed everywhere, in shops, restaurants, and on the street. Treat them with respect. At cinemas, the royal anthem plays before every film and everyone stands in silence.

10. The Wai: The Polite Thai Greeting

The wai (pressing your palms together and bowing slightly) is the traditional Thai greeting. You do not need to initiate it, but if someone wais you, it is polite to wai back.

Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Thailand

11. Never Touch Anyone’s Head and Never Point With Your Feet

The head is the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture. Never touch anyone on the head. And never point your feet at a person, a Buddha image, or a monk. Feet are considered the lowest and least sacred part of the body.

When sitting at a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side, never point them toward the altar.

12. Bargaining in Thailand: When It Is Okay and When It Is Not

Bargaining is normal and expected at markets, night markets like Thepprasit Night Market or Jomtien Night Market, street stalls, and souvenir shops. Start at around 50 to 60 percent of the asking price and negotiate from there. Always smile, it is part of the process.

Do not bargain at:

  • Restaurants and cafes with printed menus
  • 7-Eleven and supermarkets
  • Shopping malls like Central Festival

13. Renting a Scooter: I Wish I Knew Before Going to Thailand

Scooters are a popular way to get around Pattaya, Koh Larn, and Ko Sichang. But Thailand has one of the highest road accident rates in the world. Do not rent a scooter unless you are an experienced rider.

Also, since June 2025, Thailand has stricter helmet laws, a 2,000 THB fine per person for not wearing a helmet. It is enforced.

15. Pattaya Is More Than Just Nightlife: Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Thailand

Most first-time visitors think of Pattaya only as a party destination. That is a big mistake, Pattaya has a lot more to offer.

From our experience, some of the best things to do in Pattaya include:

FAQ: Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Thailand

Is Thailand safe for tourists?

Yes, Thailand is generally very safe. Use common sense, keep your belongings secure in crowded areas, and be aware of the common scams mentioned above. The main risk is road accidents, be careful on motorbikes.

Do I need a visa for Thailand?

Most nationalities get a 30-day visa exemption on arrival. Check our details for ED Visa for longer stays.

What currency does Thailand use?

Thai Baht (THB). Always check the current rate before you travel.

Can you use credit cards in Thailand?

Yes, cards are accepted in most hotels, malls, and restaurants. But many street food stalls, markets, and local shops are cash only. Always carry some THB in cash.

What language is spoken in Thailand?

Thai. In tourist areas, especially Pattaya, Bangkok, and Koh Larn, English is widely spoken. Learning a few basic phrases like sawasdee krap/kha (hello) and khob khun krap/kha (thank you) goes a long way.

Here is a link to learn Thai for free.

If you have a question, feel free to DM me here on IG @fj.at.pattaya or @snny.travel.blog.