Biggest mistake, not going to Isan. This is the real Thailand, virtually zero tourists but people with the biggests hearts and so,so welcoming. This is the hidden gem, don't tell your mates.
The people, culture, food, etc is in Isaan are great, but it’s hot af and the landscape is very flat and boring for the most part. Definitely depends what kind of experience be you are looking for.
Happened to me twice on Koh Chang when walking home drunk. I left Barclays Bank due to their incompetence over a new card. And the yellow(?) Thai bank will not come to open the ATM, because they're aholes...other banks usually will.
Most ATMs where I live in Chiang Mai start to beep immediately after you take the money and don't stop until you take the card. I find this is a great improvement because it's hard to walk away with an ATM still beeping. Yes, it will take your card eventually. So, don't walk away if it's beeping. It's trying to tell you something. In any case, never travel with just one card. Things can happen. At least have a credit card you can use until your new debit card arrives.
Important thing about ATM : if you are asking money, and your bank account is in another country, you have to pay 200 baths (around 6€ or 6$) tax for this withdrawal, whatever the amount of the transaction. So it's certainly better to exchange your money at the airport, when you arrive in BKK or DMK
Hey Paddy, just sent this one to my son. He`s 19 and travelling thailand alone for the first time. I gave him a lot of context but i think its sometimes better to hear it from someone else. Following for a while now. Thanks buddy
Hi Paddy you could have added value to your ATM section by advising that for foreign bank cards it is better to press the continue without conversion button as you get a better rate for your money than if you convert while using the ATM. I do get that you wouldnt see this if you are using a local bank card. Cheers Chris
I have been traveling to Thailand since 1985 and also lived there full time for more than 10 years. I have the to say that you nailed it in this video. I am Shure that this info is valuable for all the first timers visiting LOS. Keep up the good work. I really enjoy your videos. Hope to see more of your roadtrips with your awesome Honda CT 125. I consider to buy my own little Zelda to navigate the not so nice roads in Cambodia. Best regards from Skin, also known as Spiderville 🕷️🕸️
I agree about the laundry. I am here long stay and I have to wash often. Even in the cooler weather, like now, in October, my clothes get soaked from the humidity even if I am outside for a short time.
Not a mistake to avoid, but more of a tip…. When travelling long distance in Thailand, let’s say Bangkok to Chiang Mai, consider an overnight train rather than a plane. You may be thinking “why do I want to spend hours on a train, when a flight is quicker?” Here’s why… 1. It’s cheaper. A flight will cost around £30, while the train about £20, and it’s possible to get it even cheaper, depending on when you go. 2. That £10 saving may not seem like much, but you save in other areas too. It’s overnight, so you’re saving on one night’s accommodation. Depending on where you normally stay, that could be an additional £30-£50 you’re saving. 3. It may take longer, but you’re actually making better use of your time. Because it’s overnight, you’re doing much of the journey asleep. It’s almost like not having a travel day, because instead of going back to your hotel, you just go to the train station, you then have a night’s sleep, lick you would anyway, but you get to wake up in your destination. 4. It’s much less hassle than catching a flight. You don’t have to get there particularly early, like you do when going to the airport (depending on where you stay, the train station is probably closer too), plus there’s none of those queues and security checks. If you book in advance, you won’t have to queue at all, you just board the train and get settled down. The same is true at the other end, there’s no waiting around, you just get off, leave the station and get a taxi to your hotel (and it’s easier to get one from the station than the airport without getting scammed). 5. Don’t worry about booking 1st class, the 2nd class beds are just as comfy. I was out like a light when I travelled and had the best nights sleep I’d had in ages. 6. It’s a great way of meeting people. I met a couple on the berth opposite and we chatted for ages about where we’d been and our plans in Chiang Mai and we made plans to meet up later in our stay in Chiang Mai. 7. Depending on the time and when you wake up, you get some great views on the train. I watched the sunrise over some stunning scenery, before we got to Chiang Mai. You wouldn’t really get that in a plane.
Now is the time for the north perfect temps very rarely rains, loy kathong, hill tribe festival in Mae Sai, colors if Doi Tung, and for different Thai treat the inter school sports days. Great video Paddy ,all the best.
Perfect this exactly what new people to Thailand need to know traveling to Thailand for the first time, I’ll let everyone I know to watch this prior to travel 🧳. Thanks Paddy
Biggest problem riding a motorbike without a licence will be your health insurance. If you have a crash, end up in hospital and need to pay insane bills for your recovery - the insurance will refuse to pay, if you don't have a licence for the bike you drove.
I had my first trip to South-East Asia this February, and I watched you and one russian speaker youtuber, who stucked in Tailand in covid and, as me, does not drive. So my Viet-Lao-NTai-Cambodia-Bangkok (with River Kwai) trip was based on your advices. In Laos I met another subscriber of your canal. Simply thank you for what's you doing. You make that amazing part of the world much closer and much more understandable. Cheers from Moscow
I'm heading over for my 3rd visit for 3 weeks this December. The rushing around bit is so important. Figuring out the balance of seeing a place, traveling, and variety is a challenge, especially when you present so many awesome options! I think I'm stretching things with my plan for Bangkok, Chang Mai, Koh Lanta, and Jomtien. But there is always next year, and hopefully retirement to see much more at a comfortable pace! Mr. Doyle, if I see you at the pub, beers on me! Thanks for the hard work! 🍻
"Spend at least 4 weeks" was definitely not suggested by an American. I get 15 days off work TOTAL per year (besides the standard 2 days off per 7 day week.). That has to cover vacation, medical/dental appointments, sick time, and even if an immediate family member dies. The only way I could ever take a 4 week vacation would be if I quit my job and then I wouldn't have medical insurance 😭😭.
@@allahismyprophet no. I get Christmas day and New Year's Day off, but no days before or after. In previous businesses I have worked for I have had to work holidays.
if you want good food in thailand then go to the old ladies cooking home-cooking foods on the street or the little local hole in the wall restaurants. its cheap delicious and just awesome
I have only done that once at a ATM , put my khrunhthai card in at a machine at 7/11 in hua hin and a thai came in with my card , i instantly gave him a 1000 bht because it was so nice of him
ive been to thailand many many times over the past decade and i always come between march and september and the rain has never affected my time there. itll just rain for a bit then stop...maybe ive been lucky but i doubt that.
I usually visit Thailand during that time of year as well, and have always had pretty good luck with the weather. Until this last time. I was in Thailand for a month this summer for in July, and MY GOD it rained SO MUCH. I spent a week on Koh Kood basically just cooped up in my hotel while it downpoured torrentially for days on end. It was gloomy almost the entire trip with very few breaks of sunshine. It was honestly quite disappointing.
I was in Bangkok last November alone from Norway, haven't been much outside my own country but had no problem taking Skytrain or underground, I bought a day pass on the skytrain couse I like getting up over traffic and get good view. I took to the end both way and got of a couple of time to look around, that's something I would recommend. I am coming back soon and will stay longer, alone again and as not drinking I had ONLY good experience visit Thailand 3 weeks
Thanks Paddy. Some great advice. Just planning our second trip in February. You have been a big influence in where we have been and want to visit in Thailand. Thanks again 🙏🏼
Great video Paddy 😊 It really upsets me when visitors I see in Thailand treat hospitality staff with disrespect. They demonstrate no manners whatsoever and come across as arrogant entitled foreigners. Many times, I have had to hold my tongue from saying something. A smile, please, and a thank you goes a long way to make a person feel valued 🌻
Great video. Thank you for bringing up the issues of people disrespecting culture and nature. I really hope people watch this video and learn to be respectful.
My Thai wife and I visit Bangkok every year for about a 4 to 5 weeks a year. We like to rent a condo with a washing machine and there is no need for a dryer. Everything hang dries in about an hour. Super easy packing for side trips that just pop up Super cheap and very close to her children and grandchildren. We have T-MOBILE and for 50 dollars you get 30 days in many countries with unlimited phone calls and texts. We are going to try that next trip. You can probably get it a little cheaper but it sounds so easy.
Hi Paddy! I'm a subscriber and watch your videos religiously! I'm curious if you've ever compiled a list of your absolute favorite travel destinations in SE Asia and/or internationally. I'm planning a multi-continent trip and would love to hear what places have been most resonant for you over the years. Thanks for considering - love the channel!
Love your vlogs Paddy. We visited Cheow Lan Lake /Panvaree Resort based on your recommendation (as had another couple we met there!). Absolutely stunning!
Another thing not to do when scuba diving or swimming around coral is don't put sun cream on before going into the water it extremely damaging to the coral. Great videos pad I been watching you channel grow right from the beginning I don't normally comment on your videos. But you brought up some good points 👍🙏
3:40 It never ceases to amaze me that even though today we practically have a highway of information in our pockets, an astonishing number of people don't do background research and find out about things before they act
I'm just back from 6 weeks in Hua Hin and Chiang Mai. Yep, just managed to avoid the floods in CNX and then they followed me to HH. Was pulled over three times in CNX. Police weren't rude, but little abrupt until I produced my Thai motorbike license and then they couldn't be friendlier. I'm luck to spend about four to five months a year in Thailand. You're right on so many things. Grab is great, I would avoid Bolt. I've met many Khao San road tourists who don't leave the area and go home telling everyone that they have experienced Thailand. The worst tourist trap I have come across over the last few years has been the Long Neck ladies in Chiang Mai. Totally agree about dressing standards. Oh! one strange thing that people might not realise is that adults stand for children on public transport - childrens' safety is considered paramount.
Another time a girl went topless in the swimming pool, when she got to the airport she was told not to return as she won't be able to stop & return back the same day
ill say one thing...the mrt in bangkok is waaaaayyyyy different than in chi-town usa....its filthy, graffiti everywhere, trash everywhere, people talking loudly, screaming people, crazy people, people trying to sell you stuff, people trying to rob you, people eating,drinking and sometimes smoking. also people farting burping pissing...naked people.. i could go on and on but you get my drift i think...but i loves my chi-town.. )
Yep, did the ATM thing once. Got my cash and just wandered off. My advice on renting a scooter if you don't have a licence in your home country AND an IDP is don't. If it goes bad it can go really, really bad.
Massive issue that most are not aware of, travel insurance not covering scooter/motorbike rental (check with them before you come), the rule is basic, if you don’t have a host nation full motorbike license, and the worst (godforbid) happens, you are not covered with travel insurance…go fund me page anyone 🫣 Good vlog Paddy as always, Chok Dee 🤟🏻
Another great video Paddy. Thanks for the link to Safetywing; I had only heard of this from American expats, so thought it was a USA company, but with your recommendation I will look at their offerings. Have a great day and an even better one tomorrow!
ATM wise… any options we should be careful not to click on? I will download Grab, but I have a question: is it easy to find one in the middle of the night? I have a flight at 7.30 am and the BTS only opens at 5.30
You won't have any issues getting a taxiin Bangkok. The city never sleeps. I've taken plenty of Grab taxis and taxis at 3 and 4am. ATMs will charge you extra if you accept the conversion rate of the Thai bank. It's usually best to allow your local bank to do the conversion. They also charge a fee but you can withdraw w/o a fee in the bank. I would avoid sketchy looking ATMs outside of 7-11. Never had issues myself but I've read plenty of threads on reddit from people who didn't receive their money. Sometimes you get it back but it most likely won't happen before the end of your trip. Last tip. Charles Schwab refunds foreign ATM fees and doesn't charge a monthly fee. They refund the fee one time a month so that can save you a bit of money. I love Thailand and could go on and on. I hope you have fun on your trip!
Hi Paddy, you missed a very important point regarding hiring a motorcycle in Thailand. If you don’t have a license to drive a motorcycle, you are not covered by an insurance, including holiday insurance. We tend to think nothing will happen to ourselves. But someone will be part of the statistics, it very well could be you or I.
Solid tips for the uninitiated and a good reminder for those who have been away for a while. The laundry one is something I'll disagree on though, the hassle of organising laundry, coming back the next day for it far outweighs the hassle of having to carry a big bag about. An 80L backpack compared to a 50L doesn't make much difference, as long as I can put it on my back and walk around it's all good. Each to their own though. One I would add is staying on Sukhumvit with small kids, so many times I've seen a family with children walking past ladies of the night, the Mum with a face like a fizz and a Dad trying not to show his glee at the 'sights' 🤣 Somewhere like Silom would be a better fit for families to be honest.
When I did my TEFL course in Chiang Mai, one of the girls on the course hired a scooter. She had never ridden before even in the UK. I spent about an hour with her in the car park trying to teach her the basics. It was shocking to me they would hire a bike to someone with absolutely zero experience. Luckily, she made it safely to the end of the course, but there were so close calls.
I have read that to ride a scooter legally in Thailand, you need a motorcycle license in your home country plus an international driving permit. She probably shouldn't have been on that scooter to begin with.
Thanks Paddy , you would think people would do a little research before flying to Thailand but they still come and believe they can carry on as if they are at home , I saw a woman who thought it was a good idea to sit next to a monk whilst waiting for a boat , the locals soon let who know that wasn’t acceptable and she was shocked .
you mentioning about people dressing inappropriately… thank you! It’s crazy to think that people think it’s ok?!? Same in any country tho like bro put a top on?!
I went to Thailand this year in Hatyai and Songkhla area between 15 august-31august. Had perhaps 4 days of rain. Sure, it was heavy but didn't matter alot. And yes, prayers to Phuket at that same time :(
Paddy i have been to Thailand so many times but never been to krabi , where would you recommend to go around there or the nearby islands , i have been to phi phi but never krabi
Even though Grab is more popular than Bolt in Bangkok, I prefer Bolt and never had an issue using it. Also, BTS only runs 6am-midnight, you should have included that.
Before you come to Thailand ask your local bank branch for an atm card with your name on it that matches your passport. That's the only way a local thai branch will return your card .number only cards are sent to thai bank head offices. 😊
I’ve lost my card twice in ATMs. It’s so unnatural especially if you are in a rush. 🤦♂️ Been travelling to Thailand since the late 80s. The good old days. No phone, no Internet and best of all no so called influencers. Best advice I could give is don’t be naive. It’s a wonderful place. Go and enjoy it.
Bad news is... The ATM will suck your card back and destroy it for security purpose if you leave it in the machine for about 2 minutes. Then you have to go to the bank to do the new one. 😅 I've learned that by myself. 😅
When I walk around Thailand (or anywhere) with my shirt off, it clears a path and opens up tables at the restaurant ; ) Simple rules don't be loud, aggressive, or disruptive. As for touching people's heads whom to don't know ... don't do that anywhere! Lol
Insurances Paddy, too right got bit by a Barracuda in the neck on Kamala beach Phuket , was glad I had insurance and the bite was on the right hand side not the left 😂😂
yo paddy or anyone else who knows thailand really well...ive been to thailand many times and love it. im planning to go there in 2025 march-august (6 months)... im going all over everything south of bangkok..i love hua hin, chumphon & cha-am..where else on that east side strip from hua hin -surat thani can i go during those month thats awesome...beach wise..also weather info if you know it..thanx....
Headphones, yes! I am surprised how many people talk on the internet or listen to music in a restaurant. I am thinking about buying a bunch of cheap earbuds and just passing a pair to anyone having a two-way conversation on their computer. I wouldn't say a word, just put it down in front of them and keep walking or go back to my own table.
If you use common sense and keep your wits, same rules apply visiting any country. I'm really appreciating James Michener and his destination novels pre internet. Things remain the same.
I've been living in Phuket for the past three months where I've seen quite a few Thai men walking around with shirts off, so I can understand why tourists or riff raff as you called them or was it that one particular dude listening to hip hop? wouldn't think they are being disrespectful. I was born in America, so for a little while I had to fight the urge to make a right hand turn on the red light.
Paddy, im travel to Thai seince 98,it was amazing, now we are sufer from one country travels you know them very well, they are so noisy every where, unrecpict any people where they are 👍
I agree with some of the points, but not the cultural one: I have been in Bangkok for three weeks now and I have seen many Thai girls and ladyboys dressed very inappropriately (this would be offensive anywhere in Europe), so I'm not so sure that a guy without his shirt on would necessarily offend (in fact, there's a Thai guy who always works without his shirt on at the Ratchada Night market). This isn't a one off, I see several local people dressed like this on a daily basis. Also, Thais are NOT quiet people in my opinion - the markets are loud, when you go into Tops, it's loud, the MRT is loud even going into a Uniqlo, the workers are loud.
Enjoy your work Paddy. one of the respected RUclipsrs going around. Viewed a video few weeks back of a RUclipsr (wont say who he is. just a drinking weed smoking heavily tattooed FOOL from UK. WHERE ELSE). walking the streets and shopping malls of Bangkok SHIRTLESS. Thing is. he knew it was wrong to do so but didnt give a toss. just laughed it off as LOOK AT ME . I nolonger watch the travelling FOOL. Keep up the good work Paddy.
While Paddy makes excellent videos, always with good advice, this is the first I have seen with this useless stock video that has no relevance to the content. This is the first ever video of his that I found distracting.
Why are long tail boats that go to idyllic serene beaches so damn loud!!! They dont believe in reasonable mufflers or exhaust silencers? I hope one day they might be electric and use solar power to help charge them. How nice that would be.
Paddy, good video. You could also have mentioned the 220 Baht fee incurred each time you withdraw from ATM ( with non Thai bank card ). Regardless of the amount withdrawn. I don’t know anywhere else that gets away with this.
Paddy, you're being way too nice, but I understand! Westerners: If you needed Paddy to prevent you from playing loud music, walking around without a shirt or littering, then pleaaaase get another pack of smokes and a 40 oz Colt 45 and save yourself a trip to Thailand and just take a vacation in front of another few hours of NASCAR.
Take a shower a couple times day. I've had to ride near a few foul smelling farangs on the BTS/MRT and it was not pleasant. Also do what the locals do. Don't eat on the public transport or talk loudly on the phone. both should be common sense but I've seen (and smelled) it one too many times during my trips
Biggest mistake, not going to Isan. This is the real Thailand, virtually zero tourists but people with the biggests hearts and so,so welcoming. This is the hidden gem, don't tell your mates.
The people, culture, food, etc is in Isaan are great, but it’s hot af and the landscape is very flat and boring for the most part. Definitely depends what kind of experience be you are looking for.
👍shhh…😂🇬🇧♥️🇹🇭
Totally agree with you. I lived in Surin for 4 years. Best time of my life
Happened to me with the ATM, I’m lucky there was a local that chase after me with my card. Blessed him!
Happened to me to. But luckily it was an ATM outside a bank in the operating hours. So they opened the ATM and gave me my card back
Happened to me twice on Koh Chang when walking home drunk.
I left Barclays Bank due to their incompetence over a new card.
And the yellow(?) Thai bank will not come to open the ATM, because they're aholes...other banks usually will.
2 times happened to me over the years. Fools don't learn it seems :)
Paddy is really grown as a master video maker/story teller. Keep up the good work!
Most ATMs where I live in Chiang Mai start to beep immediately after you take the money and don't stop until you take the card. I find this is a great improvement because it's hard to walk away with an ATM still beeping. Yes, it will take your card eventually. So, don't walk away if it's beeping. It's trying to tell you something. In any case, never travel with just one card. Things can happen. At least have a credit card you can use until your new debit card arrives.
Important thing about ATM : if you are asking money, and your bank account is in another country, you have to pay 200 baths (around 6€ or 6$) tax for this withdrawal, whatever the amount of the transaction. So it's certainly better to exchange your money at the airport, when you arrive in BKK or DMK
Hey Paddy, just sent this one to my son. He`s 19 and travelling thailand alone for the first time. I gave him a lot of context but i think its sometimes better to hear it from someone else.
Following for a while now. Thanks buddy
Fantastic!
Hi Paddy you could have added value to your ATM section by advising that for foreign bank cards it is better to press the continue without conversion button as you get a better rate for your money than if you convert while using the ATM. I do get that you wouldnt see this if you are using a local bank card.
Cheers Chris
I've tried that. It spits out my card if I choose "continue without conversion".
Think you need an account that's recognised globally. I had the same issue. With one card but not another for this reason.
Very true!
A man walking into any restaurant anywhere without a shirt is rude, not just in Thailand.
The point is SOMEHOW folks that would not do it in their western countries are happy to do it here!
Yes, dont be loud but dont be surprised to have a loud Thai neighbour singing karaoke until 6 am.
I have been traveling to Thailand since 1985 and also lived there full time for more than 10 years. I have the to say that you nailed it in this video. I am Shure that this info is valuable for all the first timers visiting LOS. Keep up the good work. I really enjoy your videos. Hope to see more of your roadtrips with your awesome Honda CT 125. I consider to buy my own little Zelda to navigate the not so nice roads in Cambodia. Best regards from Skin, also known as Spiderville 🕷️🕸️
I agree about the laundry. I am here long stay and I have to wash often. Even in the cooler weather, like now, in October, my clothes get soaked from the humidity even if I am outside for a short time.
Lol thought it was just me
Not a mistake to avoid, but more of a tip…. When travelling long distance in Thailand, let’s say Bangkok to Chiang Mai, consider an overnight train rather than a plane. You may be thinking “why do I want to spend hours on a train, when a flight is quicker?” Here’s why…
1. It’s cheaper. A flight will cost around £30, while the train about £20, and it’s possible to get it even cheaper, depending on when you go.
2. That £10 saving may not seem like much, but you save in other areas too. It’s overnight, so you’re saving on one night’s accommodation. Depending on where you normally stay, that could be an additional £30-£50 you’re saving.
3. It may take longer, but you’re actually making better use of your time. Because it’s overnight, you’re doing much of the journey asleep. It’s almost like not having a travel day, because instead of going back to your hotel, you just go to the train station, you then have a night’s sleep, lick you would anyway, but you get to wake up in your destination.
4. It’s much less hassle than catching a flight. You don’t have to get there particularly early, like you do when going to the airport (depending on where you stay, the train station is probably closer too), plus there’s none of those queues and security checks. If you book in advance, you won’t have to queue at all, you just board the train and get settled down. The same is true at the other end, there’s no waiting around, you just get off, leave the station and get a taxi to your hotel (and it’s easier to get one from the station than the airport without getting scammed).
5. Don’t worry about booking 1st class, the 2nd class beds are just as comfy. I was out like a light when I travelled and had the best nights sleep I’d had in ages.
6. It’s a great way of meeting people. I met a couple on the berth opposite and we chatted for ages about where we’d been and our plans in Chiang Mai and we made plans to meet up later in our stay in Chiang Mai.
7. Depending on the time and when you wake up, you get some great views on the train. I watched the sunrise over some stunning scenery, before we got to Chiang Mai. You wouldn’t really get that in a plane.
I was hoping at least one of your 'reasons' would convince me to take trains. None of them seem very valid tbh.
Now is the time for the north perfect temps very rarely rains, loy kathong, hill tribe festival in Mae Sai, colors if Doi Tung, and for different Thai treat the inter school sports days. Great video Paddy ,all the best.
Perfect this exactly what new people to Thailand need to know traveling to Thailand for the first time, I’ll let everyone I know to watch this prior to travel 🧳. Thanks Paddy
Another great straight down the line honest vid, one which all people coming to Thailand should view, Ill catch up with you one day paddy,
Biggest problem riding a motorbike without a licence will be your health insurance. If you have a crash, end up in hospital and need to pay insane bills for your recovery - the insurance will refuse to pay, if you don't have a licence for the bike you drove.
I am going to Thailand in 3 weeks time for 4 weeks: Bangkok, Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai, Koh Lanta, and Kanchanaburi. Thanks for the tips. 😊
Have fun!
I had my first trip to South-East Asia this February, and I watched you and one russian speaker youtuber, who stucked in Tailand in covid and, as me, does not drive. So my Viet-Lao-NTai-Cambodia-Bangkok (with River Kwai) trip was based on your advices. In Laos I met another subscriber of your canal. Simply thank you for what's you doing. You make that amazing part of the world much closer and much more understandable. Cheers from Moscow
TukTuk Cowboy in Siem Reap was a diamond of my trip! (as local rugby comunity and hero rats)
Until now its one the best vídeos that you made. Its very important to know this Little mistakes
Hey Paddy! The extras in the video were distracting. Pls just have the camera on you 😅
Thank You Paddy Doyle some Great Information🙂💙👍
I'm heading over for my 3rd visit for 3 weeks this December. The rushing around bit is so important. Figuring out the balance of seeing a place, traveling, and variety is a challenge, especially when you present so many awesome options! I think I'm stretching things with my plan for Bangkok, Chang Mai, Koh Lanta, and Jomtien. But there is always next year, and hopefully retirement to see much more at a comfortable pace! Mr. Doyle, if I see you at the pub, beers on me! Thanks for the hard work! 🍻
Excellent video and much needed!
Everything is spot on. Thank you!
Glad it helped!
Great advice, i believe the further you get away from the tourist area the happier the locals are to see you.
"Spend at least 4 weeks" was definitely not suggested by an American. I get 15 days off work TOTAL per year (besides the standard 2 days off per 7 day week.). That has to cover vacation, medical/dental appointments, sick time, and even if an immediate family member dies. The only way I could ever take a 4 week vacation would be if I quit my job and then I wouldn't have medical insurance 😭😭.
That’s terrible 😢
What about over Christmas period?
@@allahismyprophet no. I get Christmas day and New Year's Day off, but no days before or after. In previous businesses I have worked for I have had to work holidays.
@patriciaflaherty what job do you do?! In the UK most company's shut down a couple days before Christmas & start back a couple days after new year
Oh sweet capitalism 🥳
if you want good food in thailand then go to the old ladies cooking home-cooking foods on the street or the little local hole in the wall restaurants. its cheap delicious and just awesome
I have only done that once at a ATM , put my khrunhthai card in at a machine at 7/11 in hua hin and a thai came in with my card , i instantly gave him a 1000 bht because it was so nice of him
ive been to thailand many many times over the past decade and i always come between march and september and the rain has never affected my time there. itll just rain for a bit then stop...maybe ive been lucky but i doubt that.
I usually visit Thailand during that time of year as well, and have always had pretty good luck with the weather. Until this last time. I was in Thailand for a month this summer for in July, and MY GOD it rained SO MUCH. I spent a week on Koh Kood basically just cooped up in my hotel while it downpoured torrentially for days on end. It was gloomy almost the entire trip with very few breaks of sunshine. It was honestly quite disappointing.
I was in Bangkok last November alone from Norway, haven't been much outside my own country but had no problem taking Skytrain or underground, I bought a day pass on the skytrain couse I like getting up over traffic and get good view. I took to the end both way and got of a couple of time to look around, that's something I would recommend.
I am coming back soon and will stay longer, alone again and as not drinking I had ONLY good experience visit Thailand 3 weeks
Cheers as always for a great video safe travels as always ❤❤❤😊😊😊😊😊
Thank you for your advice, as my family's going to Thailand for the first time beginning of next year 🙏
Thanks Paddy. Some great advice. Just planning our second trip in February. You have been a big influence in where we have been and want to visit in Thailand. Thanks again 🙏🏼
About to head to Vietnam solo and ride through the north. These are common sense tips and will apply anywhere you go.
Great video Paddy 😊 It really upsets me when visitors I see in Thailand treat hospitality staff with disrespect. They demonstrate no manners whatsoever and come across as arrogant entitled foreigners. Many times, I have had to hold my tongue from saying something. A smile, please, and a thank you goes a long way to make a person feel valued 🌻
Great video. Thank you for bringing up the issues of people disrespecting culture and nature. I really hope people watch this video and learn to be respectful.
I hope so!
Great content, good job khun Paddy.
Great advice Paddy.
Much appreciated
Cheers 🍺🇦🇺
My Thai wife and I visit Bangkok every year for about a 4 to 5 weeks a year. We like to rent a condo with a washing machine and there is no need for a dryer. Everything hang dries in about an hour. Super easy packing for side trips that just pop up Super cheap and very close to her children and grandchildren.
We have T-MOBILE and for 50 dollars you get 30 days in many countries with unlimited phone calls and texts. We are going to try that next trip. You can probably get it a little cheaper but it sounds so easy.
Hiya Paddy. Great tips. And advice.
Happy Sunday.
Hi Paddy. Great video with good advices👍. Thank you very much.
But I cannot find the eSim Link in your discription😊
Hi Paddy! I'm a subscriber and watch your videos religiously! I'm curious if you've ever compiled a list of your absolute favorite travel destinations in SE Asia and/or internationally. I'm planning a multi-continent trip and would love to hear what places have been most resonant for you over the years. Thanks for considering - love the channel!
Love your vlogs Paddy. We visited Cheow Lan Lake /Panvaree Resort based on your recommendation (as had another couple we met there!). Absolutely stunning!
So cool!
Another thing not to do when scuba diving or swimming around coral is don't put sun cream on before going into the water it extremely damaging to the coral. Great videos pad I been watching you channel grow right from the beginning I don't normally comment on your videos. But you brought up some good points 👍🙏
Good point!
You are my absolute fave. Never stop.
3:40 It never ceases to amaze me that even though today we practically have a highway of information in our pockets, an astonishing number of people don't do background research and find out about things before they act
I bought a book1984 called culture shock Thailand , still got it, saved me a huge amount of embarrassing moments 😅😅😅
I'm just back from 6 weeks in Hua Hin and Chiang Mai. Yep, just managed to avoid the floods in CNX and then they followed me to HH. Was pulled over three times in CNX. Police weren't rude, but little abrupt until I produced my Thai motorbike license and then they couldn't be friendlier. I'm luck to spend about four to five months a year in Thailand. You're right on so many things. Grab is great, I would avoid Bolt. I've met many Khao San road tourists who don't leave the area and go home telling everyone that they have experienced Thailand. The worst tourist trap I have come across over the last few years has been the Long Neck ladies in Chiang Mai. Totally agree about dressing standards. Oh! one strange thing that people might not realise is that adults stand for children on public transport - childrens' safety is considered paramount.
Another time a girl went topless in the swimming pool, when she got to the airport she was told not to return as she won't be able to stop & return back the same day
ill say one thing...the mrt in bangkok is waaaaayyyyy different than in chi-town usa....its filthy, graffiti everywhere, trash everywhere, people talking loudly, screaming people, crazy people, people trying to sell you stuff, people trying to rob you, people eating,drinking and sometimes smoking. also people farting burping pissing...naked people.. i could go on and on but you get my drift i think...but i loves my chi-town.. )
We all fart.
Yep, did the ATM thing once. Got my cash and just wandered off. My advice on renting a scooter if you don't have a licence in your home country AND an IDP is don't. If it goes bad it can go really, really bad.
Massive issue that most are not aware of, travel insurance not covering scooter/motorbike rental (check with them before you come), the rule is basic, if you don’t have a host nation full motorbike license, and the worst (godforbid) happens, you are not covered with travel insurance…go fund me page anyone 🫣
Good vlog Paddy as always, Chok Dee 🤟🏻
Get an international License , Thailand are signatures to this license .
@@dongoldney for what you are qualified to drive, yes.
Another great video Paddy. Thanks for the link to Safetywing; I had only heard of this from American expats, so thought it was a USA company, but with your recommendation I will look at their offerings. Have a great day and an even better one tomorrow!
ATM wise… any options we should be careful not to click on?
I will download Grab, but I have a question: is it easy to find one in the middle of the night? I have a flight at 7.30 am and the BTS only opens at 5.30
You won't have any issues getting a taxiin Bangkok. The city never sleeps. I've taken plenty of Grab taxis and taxis at 3 and 4am.
ATMs will charge you extra if you accept the conversion rate of the Thai bank. It's usually best to allow your local bank to do the conversion. They also charge a fee but you can withdraw w/o a fee in the bank.
I would avoid sketchy looking ATMs outside of 7-11. Never had issues myself but I've read plenty of threads on reddit from people who didn't receive their money. Sometimes you get it back but it most likely won't happen before the end of your trip.
Last tip. Charles Schwab refunds foreign ATM fees and doesn't charge a monthly fee. They refund the fee one time a month so that can save you a bit of money.
I love Thailand and could go on and on. I hope you have fun on your trip!
@@rotimi22 thank you so much. This is super helpful! I will also look into Charles Schwab. 👋🏻
Hi Paddy, you missed a very important point regarding hiring a motorcycle in Thailand. If you don’t have a license to drive a motorcycle, you are not covered by an insurance, including holiday insurance. We tend to think nothing will happen to ourselves. But someone will be part of the statistics, it very well could be you or I.
Solid tips for the uninitiated and a good reminder for those who have been away for a while. The laundry one is something I'll disagree on though, the hassle of organising laundry, coming back the next day for it far outweighs the hassle of having to carry a big bag about. An 80L backpack compared to a 50L doesn't make much difference, as long as I can put it on my back and walk around it's all good. Each to their own though.
One I would add is staying on Sukhumvit with small kids, so many times I've seen a family with children walking past ladies of the night, the Mum with a face like a fizz and a Dad trying not to show his glee at the 'sights' 🤣 Somewhere like Silom would be a better fit for families to be honest.
He is definitely right about the laundry
@@specialized500 If you wanna spend every 3/4 days of your hol doing laundry, go for it
Thank you so much, Paddy!
When I did my TEFL course in Chiang Mai, one of the girls on the course hired a scooter.
She had never ridden before even in the UK.
I spent about an hour with her in the car park trying to teach her the basics.
It was shocking to me they would hire a bike to someone with absolutely zero experience.
Luckily, she made it safely to the end of the course, but there were so close calls.
I have read that to ride a scooter legally in Thailand, you need a motorcycle license in your home country plus an international driving permit. She probably shouldn't have been on that scooter to begin with.
@@chronic2023 I agree, but I was not in charge of her. I just tried to make sure she didn't kill herself immediately
Had the same thing happen with the card - super unfortunate & a lot of hassle to get cash for the remaining stay
Thanks Paddy , you would think people would do a little research before flying to Thailand but they still come and believe they can carry on as if they are at home , I saw a woman who thought it was a good idea to sit next to a monk whilst waiting for a boat , the locals soon let who know that wasn’t acceptable and she was shocked .
you mentioning about people dressing inappropriately… thank you! It’s crazy to think that people think it’s ok?!? Same in any country tho like bro put a top on?!
I even packed too much for long time stay. I’m in Bangkok for 3 years now and still have unused things lol
I even packed too much for long time stay. I’m in Bangkok for 3 years now and still have unused things lol. Haven’t been to khao san road yet 😂
Any recommendations to visit islands in two weeks? How’s the weather now? I’m visiting Thailand again on November 7th for a month
e-sim providers are much more expensive compared to local sims.
I went to Thailand this year in Hatyai and Songkhla area between 15 august-31august. Had perhaps 4 days of rain. Sure, it was heavy but didn't matter alot. And yes, prayers to Phuket at that same time :(
Hi Paddy I’m really desperate to try Thai Crispy Fish Feet. Have you tried this dish?
I’ve lost at least 5 cards over the years. Very good tip. Usually when drunk
Paddy i have been to Thailand so many times but never been to krabi , where would you recommend to go around there or the nearby islands , i have been to phi phi but never krabi
Even though Grab is more popular than Bolt in Bangkok, I prefer Bolt and never had an issue using it. Also, BTS only runs 6am-midnight, you should have included that.
Very true
Before you come to Thailand ask your local bank branch for an atm card with your name on it that matches your passport. That's the only way a local thai branch will return your card .number only cards are sent to thai bank head offices. 😊
I’ve lost my card twice in ATMs. It’s so unnatural especially if you are in a rush. 🤦♂️
Been travelling to Thailand since the late 80s. The good old days. No phone, no Internet and best of all no so called influencers. Best advice I could give is don’t be naive. It’s a wonderful place. Go and enjoy it.
Now I realised why Cardless ATM withdrawal in your Thai Bank app is important.
Bad news is...
The ATM will suck your card back and destroy it for security purpose if you leave it in the machine for about 2 minutes. Then you have to go to the bank to do the new one. 😅
I've learned that by myself. 😅
When I walk around Thailand (or anywhere) with my shirt off, it clears a path and opens up tables at the restaurant ; ) Simple rules don't be loud, aggressive, or disruptive. As for touching people's heads whom to don't know ... don't do that anywhere! Lol
Insurances Paddy, too right got bit by a Barracuda in the neck on Kamala beach Phuket , was glad I had insurance and the bite was on the right hand side not the left 😂😂
yo paddy or anyone else who knows thailand really well...ive been to thailand many times and love it. im planning to go there in 2025 march-august (6 months)... im going all over everything south of bangkok..i love hua hin, chumphon & cha-am..where else on that east side strip from hua hin -surat thani can i go during those month thats awesome...beach wise..also weather info if you know it..thanx....
That blouse looks extremely comfortable and airy. What brand is that?
Headphones, yes! I am surprised how many people talk on the internet or listen to music in a restaurant. I am thinking about buying a bunch of cheap earbuds and just passing a pair to anyone having a two-way conversation on their computer. I wouldn't say a word, just put it down in front of them and keep walking or go back to my own table.
Toppa da mornin to yuh Paddy
If you use common sense and keep your wits, same rules apply visiting any country. I'm really appreciating James Michener and his destination novels pre internet. Things remain the same.
I think I’ve gone through 6 atm cards since living here 😂 So true
The card thing 😭 iv done in twice in Thailand on different occasions and I was staying for a mouth each time such a nightmare😭🤣
I've been living in Phuket for the past three months where I've seen quite a few Thai men walking around with shirts off, so I can understand why tourists or riff raff as you called them or was it that one particular dude listening to hip hop? wouldn't think they are being disrespectful. I was born in America, so for a little while I had to fight the urge to make a right hand turn on the red light.
I have been coming to Thailand for twenty five years, never been on the BTS. Are the Extras in your video AI generated? Very informative video Paddy.
Link for the esim doesn't seem to work.......not sure if it's just for me but I just get a blank screen.
Paddy, im travel to Thai seince 98,it was amazing, now we are sufer from one country travels you know them very well, they are so noisy every where, unrecpict any people where they are 👍
Hi Paddy hoping to visit Thailand in November, what are the best areas to visit, to avoid the rain?
Northern areas and Phuket side of southern coastline
I agree with some of the points, but not the cultural one: I have been in Bangkok for three weeks now and I have seen many Thai girls and ladyboys dressed very inappropriately (this would be offensive anywhere in Europe), so I'm not so sure that a guy without his shirt on would necessarily offend (in fact, there's a Thai guy who always works without his shirt on at the Ratchada Night market). This isn't a one off, I see several local people dressed like this on a daily basis. Also, Thais are NOT quiet people in my opinion - the markets are loud, when you go into Tops, it's loud, the MRT is loud even going into a Uniqlo, the workers are loud.
Hey I clicked on the Sailey link but no discount came up. Any ideas? Thanks!
Maybe you need the app installed prior to clicking the link?🔗
@@PaddysLiveLounge I have the app and signed up for the account but still nothing.
Make sure You have travel insurance.Things happen.And pack Imodium
Good video 👍🏻
Enjoy your work Paddy. one of the respected RUclipsrs going around. Viewed a video few weeks back of a RUclipsr (wont say who he is. just a drinking weed smoking heavily tattooed FOOL from UK. WHERE ELSE). walking the streets and shopping malls of Bangkok SHIRTLESS. Thing is. he knew it was wrong to do so but didnt give a toss. just laughed it off as LOOK AT ME . I nolonger watch the travelling FOOL. Keep up the good work Paddy.
is it just me, or is random stock b roll clips making videos look low quality? (no critiscism against paddy as he mostly use real photage)
While Paddy makes excellent videos, always with good advice, this is the first I have seen with this useless stock video that has no relevance to the content. This is the first ever video of his that I found distracting.
Agree 100%
I am a farang with a Chang, Im always walking down the street sipping on an ice cold Chang, how big of a mistake is this?
Why are long tail boats that go to idyllic serene beaches so damn loud!!! They dont believe in reasonable mufflers or exhaust silencers? I hope one day they might be electric and use solar power to help charge them. How nice that would be.
Paddy, good video. You could also have mentioned the 220 Baht fee incurred each time you withdraw from ATM ( with non Thai bank card ). Regardless of the amount withdrawn. I don’t know anywhere else that gets away with this.
I had no idea 🥲
100% correct. Thailand is the only country I know that does this , there may of course be others.
Paddy, you're being way too nice, but I understand!
Westerners: If you needed Paddy to prevent you from playing loud music, walking around without a shirt or littering, then pleaaaase get another pack of smokes and a 40 oz Colt 45 and save yourself a trip to Thailand and just take a vacation in front of another few hours of NASCAR.
Tip #20: do the Adam’s apple test
Take a shower a couple times day. I've had to ride near a few foul smelling farangs on the BTS/MRT and it was not pleasant. Also do what the locals do. Don't eat on the public transport or talk loudly on the phone. both should be common sense but I've seen (and smelled) it one too many times during my trips
Dont make the mistake of buying the tourist sim cards is one I will never forget!!! 😂
When you rent one motorcykel you chould know if the police stop you they will ask for valid driving licence.