Bangkok Travel Guide

In Bangkok, there are mainly two different kinds of Taxi's: those which are metered, and those which aren't. Be sure to always take a metered taxi when at all possible. They will give the best rate by a large amount. If a bidding war starts with a taxi driver, one can expect to pay more than double the price the ride should have cost. Of course spotting the difference between the two kinds of taxi's can be tricky, because all have a 'metered' sign on the roof of the car. Some driver's just find it easier to make money by bartering. In order to make sure the taxi runs on meter, simply ask the driver if it does. Even if they don't speak much English they will respond with a yes or a nod.

Jewelry

Unless you are a jewelry expert and can spot the difference between a real diamond and a fake, stay away from the jewelry stalls and shops. Even the nicest looking store can sell knock-off diamond or ruby rings. These places can make a small fortune by charging tourist a 'great deal' for a bracelet, when in reality it is an inexpensive knockoff.

Water

Because of the usual high temperatures and humidity it is very important to stay hydrated. However avoid all tap water. It is not filtered and can cause anywhere from a sore throat to nausea. There is nothing worse than being forced to stay in the hotel because your sick from drinking tap water. Because of this, stick to bottled water, or use purification tablets and bottles.

Overly Friendly Locals

Most people you come across when visiting Thailand are extremely friendly and have a large smile on their face. But some Thai's use this to their advantage. Many locals work with tuk-tuk (three wheeled motorized carts which can be used as a taxi) driver's in order to point you in the wrong direction and possibly make a few extra baht (Thai money). The most common scam pulled is if you stop to look at a map, a very friendly person will come up, make small talk and ask where your going. They will then tell you it is closed, but there is someplace else which is much better. A tuk-tuk will pull up and they will tell you there's a special deal for tuk-tuks that day only. Do not listen to this. The place you are going to IS open. What happens is if you get onto the tuk-tuk, they will drive a good deal out of town and drop you off at a local jewelry dealer. Because of this, take what everyone tells you in Bangkok with a grain of salt.

The Royal Family

People who live in the country of Thailand have great respect for their king and the royal family (the royal family is similar to the British royal family, where they don't actually carry political power). This is extremely evident everywhere in Bangkok, with giant golden murals of the king on almost every street corner. To some this may become a little too much, however do not, I repeat do not criticize the royal family in front of locals. This is a grave crime and you can actually be thrown in jail for this. Along the same lines, the king's face is on all money, so do not step on it, for this is a sign if disrespect and can also bring about punishment from the government.

Well, those are probably the most important things to avoid while in Bangkok, and for the most part, Thailand in general. It is a beautiful place with wonderful people, and any trip there will be the trip of a lifetime. Just make sure to follow these dont's and your trip will be that much more enjoyable.