While you can wear jeans in Bangkok, they are generally too hot and heavy for daily, midday sightseeing, where shorts are more comfortable. Jeans are perfectly suitable for nightlife, shopping malls, and air-conditioned areas, though light linen trousers or breathable fabrics are better alternatives.
Wearing them is fine, especially when you have a stylish pair. For a night out, a pair of nice jeans is much preferred. Shorts are pretty common in most bars catering to Westerners, and they're fine in many casual Thai nightspots too.
Dress for comfort, shorts and t-shirts are fine for wandering around or shopping but you need to cover up to visit temples, the grand palace etc. You can't wear flip flops or sandals that don't have a heel strap or tight jeans and sleeveless blouses or t-shirts.
The amount you tip should vary with the service and length of time the tour guide is with you. For great guides who have been with a group the whole day, it's not unusual for them to be given upwards of 1,000 baht – a large amount for someone who will only earn around 15,000 per month.
According to WPRO, an overweight person has a BMI of ≥ 23. An obese person has a BMI of ≥25. Obese male with a BMI of 52.8. Obesity levels have been on the rise in Thailand.
One color you do need to avoid is black, as it signifies bad luck and is thought to attract bad spirits in Thai culture. This color is only socially acceptable when attending a funeral. Symbolism is important to the Thai people.
Is Bangkok's cool season actually cold? Not really. The lowest temperature is around 20°C at night, which feels cool and refreshing but not freezing. A light jacket or sweater is more than enough.
Don't point to anything with your feet and don't place your feet on the table while sitting. If you accidentally drop some money, don't step on it to stop it blowing away. This would be insulting the King whose image is on Thai currency. Don't stand on the raised threshold of a house or temple.
What if I don't have pants for temples in Bangkok?
Don't stress too much if you realize that you've forgotten something when you're about to enter a temple that you want to visit. The Grand Palace and most temples will sell or rent fisherman's (long pullover) pants. There's also often stalls nearby to other temples that will rent or sell you appropriate clothing.
Just like in most countries around the world, it is considered rude to touch a stranger's head. It is also disrespectful to touch the head of a statue, especially a statue of Buddha. However, close friends and family members often touch each other's heads or hair, which is not considered rude.
And when tipping for spa services ranging from massages to facials you should expect to pay between 15-20% of the cost of services or more if you are very satisfied and feeling generous.
It's also acceptable to tip at the end of your stay, but leave a cash tip for the number of nights stayed, even if the housekeeping team was not able to clean your room due to hotel policy. The housekeepers should not be penalized because they are unable to provide service each day.
Is it better to exchange cash or withdraw from ATM in Thailand?
The exchange rate offered by your bank will usually be a better deal than the rate at the ATM or card terminal, so it's smart to pay in local currency. Keep your debit card secure, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
The cost of beer in Thailand ranges from £1 to £2. Beer is the go-to drink in Thailand, with various local brews to sample around the country. If you prefer drinking imported beers, bear in mind that these are often more expensive.
In bustling Bangkok, you're looking at a brief stint, possibly just a couple of weeks. However, if you head to the more wallet-friendly Chiang Mai, that same amount might keep you going for nearly a month. Your choices, like savoring street food or opting for budget accommodations, can make all the difference.
Yes, Thailand is generally considered very affordable for UK tourists, offering great value for money, especially for food, local transport, and budget accommodation, though costs have risen slightly, and some things like imported goods and certain activities can be pricier; you can live cheaply on £20-£30 a day or spend more for mid-range comfort, but expect to spend more on flights than daily expenses.
