First impressions often start with an airport transfer into town from either Don Mueang International or Suvarnabhumi Airport.
TAT recommends visitors only use either official airport limousines (prices are slightly higher) or a metred taxi (pay by metre plus a 50 Baht surcharge) at one of the official taxi kiosks located outside the Arrival Hall. Tourists are advised against using any other transfer service, as it may cause some inconvenience.
TAT also reminds visitors that when looking for tour guide services remember to only contact travel agencies or hotel counters rather than accepting offers from individuals in front of hotels, at tourist attractions, or elsewhere. Remember to always ask for a booking receipt, the name of the guide and detail of the services offered before finalising any agreement.
Once safely in town, food hygiene and common sense should help foodies in search of tasty Thai cuisine stay safe. Guidelines below help mitigate risks based on individual food preferences and dining conditions:
Hygiene and cleanliness
When eating street food, remember to patronise food stalls that are busy with a lot of local Thai customers who are in the know about the safest places to eat. High volume and turnover means perishable items aren’t left sitting around to go off or attract flies. It also doesn’t hurt to give plates and utensils a quick wipe with a tissue before eating like most locals do.
Freshly cooked food
Avoid eating anything that doesn’t look freshly prepared. Street food vendors will typically take your order and cook it right there in front of you.
Avoid uncooked dishes: Stay away from uncooked dishes like raw seafood or shellfish.
Avoid ‘highly spiced’ dishes
For milder Western palates, highly spiced Thai dishes can cause real discomfort. This is the reason why spicy-hot dishes are often served with steamed rice and non-spicy dishes to help tone down the heat. Those who enjoy spicy food should try ordering a less spicy version to begin with. There are also plenty of milder Thai dishes for those who do not like hot food.
Many Thai ingredients are natural laxatives: Bear in mind that many Thai dishes contain ingredients that are natural laxatives including tamarind, fresh coconut, ginger and turmeric. For instance, Thailand’s famous papaya salad dish Som Tam is known as a powerful laxative.
So, TAT hopes that these words of advice will further help you to enjoy your holiday and stay in Thailand.
