Travelling to Thailand

Thailand is a popular destination for gap year travels. From the bustling Bangkok markets to the laid back beaches of Koh Samui, Thailand contains a variety of destinations to suit almost any type of traveller. For those looking for something more substantial than a suntan, a host of volunteer programmes exist, including building houses, teaching English and helping in orphanages. These programmes often book up fast, so if you want to spend an unforgettable year in Thailand, begin planning today!

The Geography of Thailand

Thailand, known as Siam until the mid-1930s, was the only South East Asian nation never colonised by a Western power. Thailand sits just to the southeast of Burma/Myanmar, bordered by both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. It is divided into 76 administrative provinces, with Bangkok as the capital city.

Prepare for an Adventure

Thailand experiences a tropical climate with a wet monsoon season running from May to September. While this rain may make the outdoors seem hot and steamy, air-conditioning can leave even the most seasoned traveller chilled. Avoid any climate confusion by packing:

• Sturdy walking shoes, boots, and/or sandals.
• Light raincoat.
• Hat, for rain and sun.
• Layers of clothing, including pants and a sweater.
• Swimsuits.
• Comfortable backpack.

When you're ready to tackle the Thai elements, contain your enthusiasm long enough to investigate:

• Travel vaccinations such as for hepatitis A & B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, typhoid, yellow fever, boosters for tetanus and measles, and anti-malarial tablets.
• Travel insurance.
• Travel and medical insurance claims forms.
• Needed prescriptions.
• Visas.
• Travel advisories from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
  • It is often advised that non-essential travel be curtailed in the southern provinces due to insurgency. The provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Songkhla and Satun should be avoided.
  • The risk of terrorism is high throughout Thailand, and Westerners should understand that they may be at risk.
• Local news in the areas you plan to visit.
  • There have been outbreaks of Avian Flu in Thailand, so travellers are advised to avoid live animal markets and ensure that their poultry dishes are cooked appropriately.
• A coup in September 2006 installed a new Prime Minister in Thailand, and while the situation was non-violent, travellers should be aware of political unrest.

Thailand is an incredibly cheap place to be a traveller. In major cities, youth travellers may be treated to even further discounts if they hold an:

• International Student Identity Card (ISIC) - must be a student.
• International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) - must be under 26 years of age.
• Youth Hostel Association - cheapest if you are under 26 years of age.

Create an Unforgettable Itinerary

An itinerary is a great way to organise your thoughts and create an efficient travel plan. Itineraries are also useful to leave with family and friends, and to register with the British Embassy in Bangkok in case of emergencies. If you are planning a gap year in Thailand make sure your itinerary includes:

• The Grand Palace in Bangkok.
• Ko Rattanakosin, the old royal city area of Bangkok.
• Khao San Road, Bangkok which is a budget traveller's delight.
• The world's tallest Buddhist monument at Nakhon Pathom.
• The floating market at Damnoensaduak.
• "The Bridge over the River Kwai" and Allied war cemetery at Kanchanaburi.
• Bang Pa-In Palace, the summer residence of Chakri kings.
• The Khao Luang Caves full of Buddhas.
• The beaches of Hua Hin, also the summer residence of the Thai royal family.
• The historic temples of Chiang Mai.
• Annual boat races at Nan.
• Khao Yaii National Park.
• Anywhere OTHER than Bangkok to celebrate Songkran (Thai New Year) on April 13 - the city is a ghost town as residents return to their home communities.

Another way to experience Thailand is to volunteer as part of a structured programme during your gap year.

Safety in Thailand

Travelling to Thailand requires common sense to stay safe. Keep your valuables locked at your hotel or hostel, leave jewellery and other easily stolen items at home, and keep your wallet/camera/passport on you at all times. Never watch bags or carry items for strangers, alert authorities to suspicious behaviour, and never travel alone to secluded outposts. Keep in contact with family and friends at all times, keep up with local news, and avoid expressing inflammatory political opinions in public. If the worst does happen, keep calm and file a report with local authorities immediately.

Good luck!

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