Some suggestions based on frequently asked questions we get from visitors
What to bring/prepare
✅ Paper copy of your passport to keep on your person when out and about
✅ Medical directive
✅ Medical travel insurance – make sure it covers you for activities you may engage in (ie: riding a scooter/motorcycle, zip lining, scuba diving)
✅ Enable roaming on your mobile phone data plan OR purchase a SIM card locally at the airport or any convenience store
Activity Precautions
⚠️ Massages: There are some massage places that offer immoral extras. Even those that seem “upscale”. For your safety, the best practice is to not go alone, or choose a place in public view, like the beach massage salas, or the shared seating areas with windows.
⚠️ Chaweng at nighttime is the section of the island known for prostitution and other illicit recreation, which attracts pickpockets and scammers.
⚠️ There are certain festivals and parades which are religious celebrations. For example, Songkran water festival and Full Moon parties.
⚠️ Some visitors experience heat stroke, which can be very serious and require hospitalization. Please keep well hydrated and limit your time in direct sunlight.
Food Precautions
⚠️ Boat Noodle Soup (Guay Tiew Reur ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ): This common dish is normally made with pork or beef blood.
⚠️ Insects: If you have shellfish or dust mite allergies, eating any form of insect may trigger an asthma attack.
✅ Ice: Most restaurants and hotels only serve bottled water and have clean ice delivered daily. Any ice cubes with holes in them are commercially made and safe.