Käyttäjä:EngMccutcheon400
Thailand is a wonderful country to come to, in order to have your very own personal adventure. Every year it attracts its fair share of backpackers, and solo travelers, looking to claim a slice of independence. This isn't surprising as the country is drop-dead gorgeously beautiful; whether you're on the coast, in the bustling towns, traveling through the tropical forests or have headed out to the hills, there is always something to take your breath away just around the corner.
Package Tour friendly and helpful and the Thai culture is a world and a half away from the humdrum of everyday life and concerns. Best of all, Thailand is very cheap - the cost of both accommodation and food is exceptionally low, and so even those on a budget can readily afford to strike out on their own and so stride into their own exciting Thailand story.
But if you want to make your journey an unaccompanied one, you will need to put a little more effort into planning and into looking after yourself, if you are to ensure your story has a happy ending. You won't have the back-up resources, both emotional and physical, that a fellow traveler can offer you. So what are the things to watch out for when traveling on your own throughout Thailand?
Firstly, be culturally aware - Thai Travel has a number of customs related to personal interaction which you should follow. You will find that you will be respected more, and less likely to attract unwanted attention, if you do so. Greet those Thais you meet on your way with a Wai - but only if it is offered to you first. A Wai is the simple graceful move of hands together, under the chin, which signals respect. Don't kiss or caress in public - excessive public affection is looked down upon by most Thais and they will find it unsettling. Monks should be treated deferentially - especially for females - according to their rules, there must be no physical contact between females and themselves. So, unfortunately, the ladies need to make sure they stand a respectful distance away from any monks encountered.
Next, be careful with the way you present yourself; the less negative attention you attract, when traveling on your own, the better. You shouldn't expose too much bare flesh, especially if you are female. In many temples and museums there are dress codes - so you shouldn't wear sleeveless tops, or shorts or skirts; long trousers and sleeved tops are usually required. Shoes should be removed, as they should also be when entering someone's house (or even some guest-houses and hotels). If your accommodation requires you to take off your shoes, signs will normally be displayed quite prominently.
Travel In Thai - Finally be cautious in your behaviour - Thai people are naturally friendly and it would certainly be a shame to not take up opportunities to make friends. But keep, at the back of your mind, a cool head, and look out for obvious danger signs. If new acquaintances quickly want to get you away to some 'special place', then think twice. It's rare for violence to be a problem in Thailand, but scams are not uncommon, and being on your own makes you more susceptible.
