Dos and Don’ts in Thailand: A Guide for British Tourists
Welcome to the Land of Smiles!
Thailand, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious food, is a popular destination for British tourists. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, it’s essential to be aware of the local customs and etiquette. This website provides a guide to the dos and don’ts in Thailand, along with a recommended hotel in Pattaya favored by British travelers.
Dos
- Show respect to the monarchy: Thailand has a deep reverence for the royal family. Avoid speaking negatively about them and stand during the Royal Anthem.
- Dress modestly when visiting temples: Cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples or religious sites.
- Remove your shoes before entering homes and temples: This is a sign of respect.
- Use a ‘wai’ to greet people: The ‘wai’ is a traditional Thai greeting where you press your palms together at chest level and slightly bow your head.
- Bargain respectfully in markets: Negotiating prices is common in Thailand, but do so politely and with a smile.
- Try the local cuisine: Thai food is world-renowned. Be adventurous and sample the diverse flavors.
- Learn basic Thai phrases: Simple phrases like “Sawasdee” (hello) and “khop khun” (thank you) go a long way.
- Be mindful of your behavior in public: Avoid loud conversations and public displays of affection.
Don’ts
- Don’t disrespect Buddha images: Avoid touching or climbing on Buddha statues.
- Don’t point your feet at people or Buddha images: Feet are considered the lowest part of the body in Thai culture.
- Don’t raise your voice or lose your temper: Thais value politeness and calmness.
- Don’t touch someone’s head: The head is considered sacred in Thai culture.
- Don’t litter: Keep Thailand beautiful by disposing of your trash properly.
- Don’t engage in illegal activities: Drugs and other illegal activities are strictly prohibited and carry severe penalties.
Recommended Hotel for British Tourism in Pattaya
Luxury:
- Hilton Pattaya: Often praised for its modern design, rooftop pool with ocean views, and central location.
- Royal Cliff Beach Hotel: A sprawling complex with multiple pools, direct beach access, and a variety of dining options.
- Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort: Family-friendly with a water park theme, extensive grounds, and plenty of activities.
Mid-Range:
- Holiday Inn Pattaya: Reliable brand, good location, comfortable rooms, and often has deals.
- Avani Pattaya Resort & Spa: Stylish with a focus on design, close to the beach, and has a rooftop bar.
- Pullman Pattaya Hotel G: Modern, beachfront location, rooftop infinity pool, and good for couples.
Budget-Friendly:
- LK The Empress: Clean and comfortable, close to nightlife and shopping, but still relatively quiet.
- The Base Central Pattaya: Well-rated for value, central location, rooftop pool, and modern rooms.
- Ibis Pattaya: Another reliable brand known for basic but comfortable accommodation at a good price.
Factors to Consider:
- Location: Do you want to be near the beach, nightlife, or attractions?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend per night?
- Amenities: What facilities are important to you (pool, gym, spa, kids’ club, etc.)?
- Reviews: Always check recent reviews from other travelers.
Getting to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport
- Taxi: The most convenient option, taking around 1.5 – 2 hours. Expect to pay around 1,500 – 2,000 THB.
- Bus: A more affordable option, with buses departing regularly from the airport. The journey takes around 2 – 3 hours and costs around 130 THB.
- Private transfer: Pre-book a private car for a hassle-free transfer. Prices vary depending on the vehicle and company.
Enjoy your trip to Thailand!