We must be very respectful that we are on foreign soil and obey the laws and show courtesy, and be reasonable in our dealings and behavior. Thai people are very respectful of the monarchy, and place a great deal of faith in their religion which is largely Buddhism. The Thai people also are very modest and tolerant and will lend assistance if possible and required.The monks of Thailand are easily recognizable as they wear orange robes, a Monk must never be touched on the head, and women are forbidden to touch a monk under any circumstances. When visiting a temple, please never wear shorts or singlets as this is regarded as disrespectful. All Buddha objects large or small must be respected as sacred items, when taking photo’s be mindful of prevailing circumstances. Always remove your footwear when entering a private residence.
Money - credit cards - cash advance - debit account - travelers cheques
The currency of Thailand is the Baht. Check with your own bank to be sure of your own situation. But credit cards are accepted just about everywhere and even cash advances can be very economical if you pay on statement when you return, If you have multiple accounts attached to your card you can access your own money, the amount will be deducted from your NO 1 a/c attached to that card. The teller machines are very user friendly with English prompts to make it easier, and the money dispenses in Thai Baht I believe faster than in Australia. You can take some cash and even travelers cheques if you wish it’s up to you personally.
Airports
As visitors to Thailand we will arrive at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi international. The airport covers 8,000 acres, opened in September 2006 the terminal buildings are massive concrete and glass structures. Situated about 30 kilometers from the downtown business district. We will be transferred to our hotel once we have cleared customs and collected our luggage.
Brisbane airport parking
We recommend BAP Brisbane Airport Parking they will park and look after your vehicle while you are away and will transfer you to your flight and collect you upon return.
tel: 07 3868 2412 www.bap.com.au
Taxi meters & motorbikes & Tuk tuk
Metered taxi’s are air conditioned, it is preferable to ask the driver to use the meter before your journey starts, do not assume the meter will automatically be turned on, if you do not negotiate before the journey you may have to pay a premium price, so get a clear understanding before proceeding. If your going on an extended day trip it may be a case of barter for the best price, and not per person, but for the trip.On motorbike’s or tuk tuk they have no meter or set rate so negotiate the fare payable before you start is the best way to go, to late to negotiate at the end of your trip
Bangkok & Phuket Shopping
You will never be far from the opportunity to shop so remember to travel light, cool cottons and easy care fabrics, we do suggest you bring one jacket with you as the air travel might get quite cold on the journey, but remember you can purchase many things very inexpensive in Thailand. The cuisine Thai style is everywhere is just so tempting……….you will enjoy. Patpong night market. The night life, the go go bars, the thai kick boxing, it’s an interesting area to visit. Browse around the markets and take the opportunity to barter and grab some interesting goodies, the range is as diverse as hand made jewellery to the thai northern hills tribe arts and crafts, thai silk, pewter, watches and perfumery……………...OPEN 7 days 18:00hrs.
Pratunam market
T-shirts, beach wear, tailor made suits, clothing galore, shoes, multi level floors with a huge range of products it is just an endless array of stalls, just look for the Baiyoke hotel all 88 levels and your there. May be some civilised snacking sticky rice and mangoes at the Indra Regent hotel foyer before you start…………….OPEN 7 days 10:00hrs.
Travel insurance
For travel insurance we found QBE to be very competitive. Tel: 1300 555 18
www.qbetravelinsurance.com.au
Other sites to check out for comparisons www.artog.com.au or www.tid.com.au
Cell phones
To stay in touch with family and friends contact your tel co and advise your going overseas and either put your mobile on roaming make sure you have enough credit in place. Or in Bangkok you can have your mobile unlocked and use a Thai GSM sim card prepaid with very inexpensive txt messaging.
Drinking water
Drinking water direct from the tap or open container is not a good idea in Thailand. 1 or 2 bottles of sealed drinking water per day is included in the cost of your room. Just be mindful when your out and about sealed bottled water is readily available. If water is on the table at the restaurant, just discreetly ask for a bottle and offer to pay for it.
May we suggest
Wherever you're joining us from, overseas or Australia to take this journey of discovery, that will depart from Brisbane Queensland Australia, why not stay a while on the Gold Coast or Brisbane prior to or at the completion of this tour. With airfares and accommodation there’s never been a better time to travel.
Inclusions
All pre-arranged economy air fares, minimum 3 star rated hotels breakfast included, all transfers, all tours as outlined, if you miss transfers you are required to be at any international airport 2 hours before departure, and domestic airport 1 hour before departure to guarantee your seat. For further information please refer to the Journey and our terms & conditions on this site.
Useful Web Sites
www.Smarttraveller.gov.au
www.customs.gov.au
