Thai Language- Rather Daunting and other Bangkok, Thailand Local Custom Tips

So far, I have found the thai language harder to get the hang of than any other. I've managed to get by in spanish and french in the past, but when the alphabet is totally different, it presents a whole new challenge. I hate to come accross as the ignorant tourist who can't be bothered to learn at least some of the language, but be prepared for quite some challenge!

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I was rather taken aback when passing one of the many Bangkok food stalls that line the streets, to see a cooked toad. It looked less than appetising and I decided that I would pass on it!

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Bargaining is quite simply a way of life in Thailand. The sooner you get used to it, the more baht you'll save. It is difficult to provide strict guidelines on how low a seller may be willing to go down from his original quoted price, as all are different, but midway is a good starting point. Always smile, and be prepared to purchase the item if you agree a price. Also, how ever much you want the item, be prepared to walk away, if the seller realises you are willing to stand your ground, he might call you back and cave in.

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DO- smile! Thailand is renowned as the land of smiles, and the locals are generally happy people, embrace this!

DON'T- get angry. Always take a deep breath and don't become confrontational. This just doesn't happen in Thailand, and many see it as a sign of weakness.

DO- sample the local cusine! If you don't try out the local Thai food then you really will be missing out. It is gorgeous, and CHEAP!

DON'T- drink tap water. The water system here is not great, and even the locals rarely indulge. With bottled water being so cheap, this shouldn't pose any problems.

DO- be confident. Do not allow yourself to be pressured in to doing something you don't want to. For example if a tuk tuk driver is hassling you for a lift you do not want, then don't go.

DON'T- be rude! Remember, however annoying it can become turning down taxi driver after taxi driver, they are only trying to earn a living. Just smile and say no thankyou, and they will appreciate this much more.

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The Thai's generally seem to be very patriotic. They are also very proud of their monarch, and it is not at all uncommon to see photographs of the king in local homes or even in stores. You will see other examples of patriotism all over the city, and for example you will even have to stand for the national anthem prior to a cinema screening a film.

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It is a general custom all around Thailand that you do not wear shoes or flip flops when entering certain places. Generally this is the way for restaurants, internet cafes and most shops, although you are not expected to do so in shopping centres!

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