Let me see if I can help with a few of your questions:
I hear the food can be a problem and many get the runs. Any advice on where and what to eat? Not to eat?
If you decide to eat street food, make sure you go to a busy vendor with plenty of customers (so the food is freshly cooked) and if you are not used to spicy foods, ask for "mai phet" (not spicy). There are plenty of western food outlets ranging from fast food (McDonalds, Pizza Company) to moderately priced Italian restaurants to fancy seafood places. Gastronomically speaking, it's not Bangkok but you're not going to go hungry.
Can ya get by on plastic for everything not girl related or is cash needed for stores, dining, cabs, etc.
Cash is typical and highly recommended. Thailand has one of the highest rates of credit card fraud.
SIM card for cell? Where? Cost?
Everywhere. 7-11 (or the knockoffs) are good choices. AIS (1-2-Call) and DTAC are two common choices for carriers. About 100 Baht and top-ups are available everywhere.
Any cash machines / currency exchanges?
Almost as many as SIM card vendors. Note that almost all of the ATMs have a surcharge of 150 Baht, so make a few large withdrawals rather than many small withdrawals. Currency booth may be cheaper for small transactions.
Don't drink the water?
Use bottled water (widely available). Some people will brush their teeth only with bottled water, but this is probably overkill.
Best time weather wise? I hear it can be 100 and raining at certain times of the year. uggggh
Thailand has three seasons:
1) Hot
2) Unbelievably hot
3) Hot and wet
November to February is high season (best weather). March and April are the brutal months for heat. Rainy season is like June through October. Usually the rain is in short bursts, not the entire day.
No visa required for stays under 30 days?
Depends on your nationality. I believe US, UK, Hong Kong are 30 days. China is 15 days. | |
