Tips for first time tourists, especially western teenage girls

[The Legend]

On 2/21/2025 at 9:11 AM, Ben Zioner said:

And be especially wary of western [old] men...

 

I was coming home about 10pm from Cowboy which was unusual. Very few farang get off at my stop but two 20 something women did just that. Also kinda revealing clothes. I immediately thought it odd - but then they continued up the main road which there was nothing up there except maybe trouble. I was better than 25m away from them and called out ... Girls...do you know where you are going?? They turned and then ignored me. I then said... bc there's nothing up there! They walked on.

 

Another time this stupid feminist looking group of young women were squabbling with a tuk tuk. The TT was in my area where zero farang would hail a TT. I asked if they needed help and they too ignored me.

 

Even 60+, Im not an unattractive guy and dress better than 95% of farang in this city. I get glances from Thai women half my age at times = I doubt I look threatening, but I guess all males are seen as threats to farang women these days. Fk em all 555

[Jimmy43]

On 2/21/2025 at 8:08 AM, OneMoreFarang said:

And then I thought about riding apps like Bolt. But I have no idea if they require a local phone number. And then, I don't know if tourists can easily get a local SIM card. And can tourists somehow pay with QR code?

 

And how is the situation at the airport now? Can new tourists rely on taxi-meter from the airport? Or is that still a big scam? 

 

I use grab app with my US phone number.  No need for a Thai number.  The app sends a text when you first install and signup, but they can do that at home before the trip if they want. 

 

For sims, I use e-sims bought online these days.  I would recommend airalo.com.  I'm often traveling to multiple countries in the region, so I get one of their data only regional e-sims good in most of Asia.  If they are using a lot of data, it would cheaper to get a Thai specific sim though.

 

The airport taxis in Thailand are some of the worst in the region.  They like to play the game of hide the meter and try to overcharge new tourists.  Many also don't know how to use gps and can't find smaller hotels.  Better they stay at a decent sized hotel for the first night and insist on the meter.

[fredwiggy]

On 2/21/2025 at 9:11 AM, Ben Zioner said:

And be especially wary of western [old] men...

Be wary of everyone.as there are good and bad in all races and nationalities.

[wwest5829]

Ask her to watch, “Taken” with Liam Neeson. Then talk with her about the need to be careful as trafficking is well known here. After which tell her not to be paranoid … good luck with that! Thailand is great but … 

[Harrisfan]

On 2/21/2025 at 9:39 AM, Lacessit said:

Have any drinks straight out of a can or bottle. Mixed drinks can be lethal, as Laos backpackers found out recently.

 

SIM cards are available at most airports. Taxi services from airports have fixed prices at their airport offices.

 

Transport between Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang is free, aircon bus. Just show ongoing ticket to other destinations.

 

Only take transport that has three or four wheels. Do not rent a scooter. Always ask the price of any taxi, baht bus or tuk-tuk before getting in.

 

Do not eat street food that is not cooked in front of you.

 

Pedestrian crossings should only be trusted when they have traffic lights.

 

Forget the high heels, Thai pavements can be quite uneven. Comfortable sneakers.

 

Do not flash large amounts of cash.

 

Dress conservatively when visiting temples.

 

 

Backpackers dont read this forum

[ravip]

On 2/21/2025 at 7:10 AM, MalcolmB said:

Head down to the party islands for full moon parties etc.

Plenty of booze, drugs and young men for them there. 
They will have a ball. If they are not on the pill then pack some condoms.

And take some sunscreen.

OP asked for "good advice for first time tourists, and especially girls?"

 

Great help, some members are.