Wildlife

Travellers and tourists are strongly advised to maintain safe and legal approach distance when observing wildlife. You should use only reputable and professional operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens' advice.

Motorcycle taxis

Motorcycle accidents are very common in Thailand, particularly in resort areas such as Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. Under Thai law, riders and passengers are required to wear helmets, but they are often not provided by motorcycle taxis. If you use a motorcycle taxi, seek a rider who has a spare helmet for you to use.

The deep South

We strongly advise you to reconsider your need to travel at this time to the southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla, or overland to and from the Malaysian border through these provinces due to high levels of ongoing violence in these regions.

Malaria

The risk of malaria exists throughout the year in rural areas, particularly near the borders with Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. Other insect-borne diseases (including dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis and fillariasis) also occur in some areas. We encourage you to take prophylaxis against malaria where appropriate, and to take measures to avoid insect bites, including using insect repellent at all times.

Vaccinations

Water-borne, food-borne, parasitic and other infectious diseases (including TB, cholera, hepatitis, leptospirosis, typhoid, and rabies) are prevalent with outbreaks occurring from time to time. We suggest you consider having vaccinations before travelling. We advise you to boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food, and avoid unpasteurised dairy products.

Laws

When you are in Thailand, be aware that local laws and penalties, including ones that may appear harsh by international standards, do apply to you. If you are arrested or jailed, your government will do what it can to help you but it can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. In other words, respect local laws and customs!

Hiring a vehicle

To legally hire a car or motorbike in Thailand, you need an international and national driver's or motorcycle licence. Be aware that some rental companies will try to tell you otherwise.