Phuket Travel Tips

Social Conventions

The people of Thailand are friendly and easy going, although there are some traditions that Phuket travellers must be aware of when visiting the island. The monarchy, especially the King of Thailand is revered by the Thais and any form of disrespect, by word or by gesture, is regarded as a punishable offence. All visitors are expected to stand up for the Royal Anthem, before the commencement of movies at the cinema. Coins and bank notes should not be stepped on as they contain the image of the king.

The most common form of greeting in Thailand is called the 'wai' - pressing of the palms together in a prayer-like gesture. The younger person must always initiate the 'wai' when greeting, and the older person, will then in turn 'wai' the younger person. Shoes must be taken off and revealing attire is not accepted when visiting temples.

It is polite to remove your shoes upon entering a person's home and certain shops and offices adopt this custom as well. A pile of shoes at the entrance is a sign that people are expected to remove their footwear prior to entering. Pointing at someone or something with the foot is regarded as a rude gesture and patting on the head, even of a child, without their permission, is offensive.

Clothes

A hot climate prevails throughout Thailand and cotton clothes are the most comfortable form of attire. Dress modestly when visiting places of religious significance. Women should not wear revealing clothes.

Visas

All visitors must have a passport valid for six months to enter Thailand. Complimentary 30-day tourist visa is offered for people of most nationalities and those who wish to stay for a longer period must contact their local Thai embassy prior to leaving their homeland.

Credit Cards

Major international credit cards, such as American Express, Diners, Carte Blanche, Master Card and VISA are accepted at most hotels and shops.

Tipping

A 10% service charge is added to the bill at most restaurants, although tipping for good service is an accepted norm. There is no tipping in very simple restaurants or food stalls and small tips may be given to bellboys and chambermaids.

Electricity

Electricity supply is 220 volts and 50Hz. Major hotels also have 110V or adapters.

Health Risks

Health risks such as AIDS, cholera, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, malaria and rabies are prevalent in Thailand and visitors are advised to get vaccinated prior to arrival and minimise the risks of getting sick while in Phuket.

First-class hotels generally maintain high standards of hygiene and some even provide free bottled drinking water. Water should not be consumed directly from taps. Food taken from small-scale restaurants and stalls run the risk of being contaminated - always ensure that the food is well-cooked and served hot.

Business Hours

Opening hours:

Government offices: Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Private offices: Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5:00 pm
General banking hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Shopping centres: everyday, 10:00 am to 9:00 pm

Holidays

January 1: New Year’s Day
April 6: Chakri Day
April 13 - 15: Songkran (Thai New Year)
May 1: Labour Day
May 5: Coronation Day
August 12: HM The Queen’s Birthday
October 23: Chulalongkorn Day
December 5: HM The King’s Birthday
December 10: Constitution Day
December 31: New Year’s Eve

There are other public holidays such as the Magha Bucha Day, Khao Phansa Day (Buddhist Lent) and Visakha Bucha Day featured in the calendar, but their dates change yearly.