How to prepare for a three-month trip to Thailand
Thailand attracts many tourists of all ages due to its gorgeous beaches, culture, delicious food, and its relaxed approach to life. Thailand is a popular destination for vacations and backpacking adventures that provide the trip of a lifetime. For whatever reason you are visiting this picturesque country, it is essential that you are prepared before your trip so that you can enjoy it as much as possible when you get there. If you are looking to spend a fun-filled few months away from home, here are a few tips on how best to prepare yourself.
Plan Ahead
Flights to Thailand can work out pretty expensive, so make sure that you shop around for the best prices and book your main flights early! It is essential that you check that your passport is valid for while you are away and for up to six months after your return date. Make sure that you sort out any visas you may need for your stay and that you fully understand all the requirements and conditions of your VISA. You should also book an appointment with your doctor before you go as you will most likely require some vaccinations. This depends on where you are visiting but it is best to double check before you fly. Be sure to get this done well before you travel though as sometimes the vaccinations can require follow up appointments. It is recommended that you see your doctor around 6-8 weeks before you are due to leave for Thailand. Make sure you do this, as yellow fever will be sure to interrupt your trip!
Get Insurance
It is an absolute necessity that you get travel insurance before you leave for exotic parts of the world like Thailand. Your trip to Thailand has the potential to be amazing, so make sure that any potential mishaps won’t ruin the trip for you without some form of coverage or protection. Thailand is not covered by any domestic insurance cover and if you do end up needing treatment while you are there, a Thai hospital may ask for your travel insurance details. You can tailor your travel insurance to suit your needs and it is the most important thing you will purchase before you go away. Find out more about what is covered by travel insurance here.
Do Your Research
In order to make your trip away more enjoyable, it would be advisable to do your research into Thailand and any cultural customs, thoroughly before you go. When visiting stalls or markets in Thailand, it is normal for you to barter for your items. This may feel a bit strange for you, but this is what is expected, so just be friendly and agree on a price you are happy to pay. Don’t feel pressured into paying over the odds for something! Researching acceptable etiquette is also an essential part of preparing for your trip away. While it may be acceptable to make the odd comment or joke about those in politics or the monarchy in many countries, it is highly advised to not insult the King or the royal family while you are in Thailand. Thais are quite respectful of their King and an ill-worded comment may end up in a fairly awkward situation. It would be a good idea to try and pick up a few Thai phrases to help you communicate while you are out and about. For example, sawat-dee means hello/goodbye. This could really help you out during your trip away.
Your three-month trip to Thailand will require a lot of preparation, but the experiences you will have when you get there will be nothing short of amazing. It is really important that you prepare before you go, which will allow you to relax knowing that everything is taken care of.