As a Thai person, I would say the tips in this video are great and truly valuable. It is the best information condensed video about travelling in Thailand I've ever seen. Keep up the good work!!!
Your channel just came into my viewing recommends and I've immediately subscribed. Very concise and accurate info. Two things I would add: if around mid day you hear music on loudspeakers and everyone around you stands or stops walking, do the same as it is the national anthem and don't let the two tier pricing put you off or the fact that some places are for Thai only and you won't be let in, just accept it and go on.
Thanks for all the great tips! We’re planning on spending a couple of months in Thailand, using Bangkok as our base. Your advice on getting apartment rentals is super helpful.
I went to many banks with my passport and ATM card and could not find a single one that would give me money. Had to use the ATM & pay fees. To avoid fees, next visit I brought more cash. When I got home, I discovered about 10% of it had been stolen from my in-room safe box. They didn't take so much I would discover it right away. So, beware: the in-room safes are NOT safe.
Sorry to hear that. Banking here is totally hit or miss. You can legally do something, but a lot of the time the workers don't know what you are talking about. This can be very frustrating. I just learned from another friend of mine that one of the main banks used for opening accounts on tourist visas also stopped doing it.
Um no.. I've lived here for 7 years and this is exactly what I did for a full year. The fact is that every bank, office or pharmacy follows its own set of 'rules', and they shift depending on the management of the office and worker knowledge... I'm not making any "uneducated statements". Thanks for the input though.
Hey brother, I just discovered your channel, and it’s one of my favorite Thailand channels. I’ll be moving there in 6-12 months, so I’m learning all I can before I get there. Appreciate the time you’ve put into your videos, it will save me a lot of problems! You have a new subscriber, take care, man! !
Ok Cal, I have been combing TH-cam for someone I can tolerate listening to on Thailand. You so far are the best. You block out road noise, and don't blast people out with loud music. But your run on sentences are like being vomiting on by words. So just please pleasantly talk to us, and give our ear and brains time to ingest all that you are saying please. We want to hear all about it, but we want it to be a great experience in the process. Thank you very much.
Thanks for the kind words. Getting audio right is definitely one of the more challenging parts of production! I think sometimes over editing for speed can cause the word vomit. Thanks for the input!
I had no idea about the issue regarding reviews and will now be checking them against what's said in Google, Tripadvisor and the like. Thank you so much for producing such an excellent and informative video.
Cal, you are a good egg! I hope your family watches your clips…they will be very proud of you. I think if you make it to 15 years in Thailand, you might permanently call Thailand home. All your tips were great and your maturity and wisdom are prime. Good luck to you…we are from Cali looking to move abroad again!😇
Hey great video. This is one of the better and more informative thai videos I have seen. I have been to thailand 3 times usually a couple weeks each time. I've been to Krabi, bangkok first trip, Bangkok, Hua hinn second time and bangkok only on third trip. We want to go back and try other places. I purchased travel insurance . I wouldn't recommend buying all those expensive vaccinations unless you are going out into the Forrest. We never used bug spray but that's not a bad idea but I don't think we really need it. Fruit drinks and tea are cheap we usually buy smoothies. We have had no issues with the water but we never really went into the deep Forrest. We never faced anyone trying to scam us except for all the fake brand knockoffs lol. Oh and the massage which was amazing . Pretty girl out front which gave my wife a massage and a 300 lb girl emerged from the back for me hahaha. It was a good massage .
Sounds like some good trips. I'd recommend checking out the north or south next time, both have great places to visit. Or you could checkout some of the islands nearby Bangkok. I love Koh Chang personally, as it's quite large and not too busy...especially in the early rainy season.
Spot on guide to Thailand. I've been there many times and totally agree with youe observations. I made the major faux pas of tapping a bar girl on the head and she freaked! I soon learnt that speaking the local lingo was the go and amazed a friend when we got a tuk tuk from one side of Chiang Mai to the ping riverv for 40 baht. He was a teacher and I taught him the lessoon of showing respect in an Asian culture.
I paid a tuk tuk 300 baht from far side of Chiang Mai old city to the airport. First time in a tuk tuk and didn't know how far away the airport was, I just assumed that I would be ripped off when negotiated the price, had a good time there though, met some lovely people.
Great video thank you. I only just subscribed and catching up on some of your videos. I didn’t know about the SuperRich debit card thanks for mentioning it. One question I have on the visa extension, do they grant it as a matter of course or can it be denied? I totally agree about learning Thai. I’ve been to Thailand so many times I finally started to learn Thai last year and have enrolled in a Thai language school. There’s no better way to get to know the people and the culture. Great way to engage your audience, changing where you stand in each segment and leaning forward towards the camera as if you were talking to someone directly. Well done 😊
Thank you for the kind words! You can be denied for a visa extension but it's quite rare. If you've never had problems or warnings, it is extremely unlikely! Cheers!
I'll add a few he didn't mention: 1) If you make a deal for anything, *always* pay the money. Those who don't sometimes wind up in the hospital. 2) Don't aggressively argue or challenge people to fight. You will be fighting 10 people with sticks and bricks, and when the police come you'll be the one going to jail. 3) Pass on the "authentic experience" of the tuk tuk, as it's the worst way to travel. Just take a taxi that uses a meter. 4) Plan on being aggravated sometimes and don't take it personally. The heat and the crowds can wear down anyone's nerves. 5) If you go to Thailand during hot season, you won't feel like being outside more than 10 minutes. The heat will sap all your energy fast.
i'm so glad i watched your video. i had no idea that airbnb is illegal in Thailand. there's dozens of listings for bangkok. i would have been very mad if i got into trouble or couldn't get to my accommodations
That is correct. It’s actually based on how long you stay (under 30 days requires a hotel license). But you can stay at an Airbnb…just check google reviews for the condo and make sure there aren’t any weird reviews!
Cal, you're amazing! I subscribed. Can I ask a question? How do you recommend us to keep our money when travelling? In different areas of the body, backpack, purse? Use card or cash? What's the best way to keep your money and avoid leaving it at the hotel's safe?
Thanks for the kind words! My best advice is to use all of the strategies you discuss. Bring a couple of cards. Credit cards are accepted in a lot of places and are a great option. You can use your home bank card and withdrawal fees at ATMs are reasonable, but you need to take out a decent amount of money as you will pay about $6 per withdrawal. I always took out $500 or so per withdrawal and that’s about a 1% commission. Then I’d recommend splitting up your cash and keeping it in different places (ideally a couple of hidden compartments). I’ve never had any issues with hotel safes over the years but I’ve heard stories about money going missing and I avoid leaving too much money unattended anywhere. I prefer to carry it with me in a hidden pocket… but if you tend to lose money, you may want to withdraw less money each time and just pay a bit more on those withdrawal fees.
I recommend that you watch this video as I walk you through the entire process along with a lot of tips: th-cam.com/video/IPTyyXtav8w/w-d-xo.html Cheers!
I am planning to travel to Thailand for a short holiday. Where do you think I could stay? Bangkok, or Chiangmai, Khaosan,.....I don't drink much, and not interested in drugs.
It depends on the time of year and what you are looking for… Chiang Mai is mountains, Bangkok is city, and you have islands. Avoid staying at khaosan if you don’t drink though..
On currency conversion, always check the rate your bank charges for the conversion against what the ATM charges. I found that my US bank gives me a way way way worse conversion than local ATMS. Be mindful of this. Exchange rates vary wildly among ATMS. The one I use is only 0.5 baht below spot. My bank's rate was 8 baht below spot. I would advise against making blanket statements like this. Another blogger said the same thing, I tried it and got a big surprise when I checked my transaction.
That's interesting. I literally read the Investopedia article about dynamic currency conversion before commenting about it, as I always avoided it. What is your bank? And what ATM do you use in Thailand? Thanks for the input.
@@paulsz6194 never been there...(Rudolf Franz Ferdinand Höss was the commandant of Auschwitz during the holocaust not to be confused with big hoss cartwright)
@@thebangkokguide I was using my ATM card from my credit union but I switched to Chase which is much better (3.0 baht under spot.) The ATM in Thailand is Kasikorn Bank. They post the rate that they pay on the screen. I always check it against spot. When spot was 34.6 it was paying 34.3 Banks and ATMs vary quite a bit. I'm just advising to check before withdrawal, save yourself a few bucks 😉
First day in Thailand Don't eat spicy or sour food, eg. salads, tomyum or fruit juices in bottles. Maybe it freeze&thaw. The stomach is not accustomed. Even it's very clean But it may cause diarrhea. In Thailand there are many foreigners. Thai people are friendly and don't steal. But be careful for people from neighboring. smuggled in People who service at street food are not all Thai. However, there are still problems with tuk tuks and taxi ❤❤❤🎉
Sorry but Thai people do steal. We lost a video camera off a bus on our first trip in 1990 on a night bus to Chiang Mai from Bangkok. We know who too, it but because they are untoucheable, all we could do was file a police report and then claim from our insurance.
Just dicovered you.! Thanks, something something I knew no. I can definitely tell you that just a few weeks ago I went around several banks whit my passport and credit card with me and everyone refused to do the service, could you possibly make a dedicated vlog? Happy new year
Excuse me Cal, what brand sling bag are you wearing “time stamp 5:45” really like the style & seems like great easy access water bottle holder…is it lightweight? Ps great info thanks for sharing ! Visiting Thailand for December and really hoping CM&CR aren’t smoky as really like to see the northern temples. My other question is as a solo guy who can’t spend too long sitting at a beach, likes water yet isn’t the strongest swimmer…well should I check out still an island to adventure?? I’ve got like 17days in&out Bangkok Thought ample days to explore Bang Ayutthaya day trip, Sukathai a day +, Chiang Mai a few, swing to Rai …and then I’m not sure as feel have still sometime before the last couple days in Bang again before leave. I’ve travelled solo before, in my 40s so sorta over hostels nowadays, I’m sober, like to active & sociable. Anyone I mention going to Thai to here tells me go to x touristy beach and I’m like ?really by myself ? I wanna see natural wild places and wonder snorkeling or koa sok park ?? Or ??? Lol from sling bag to trip planner 😆 Thanks again !!!
I bought that bag here at a store called DIY. Great inexpensive shop in many malls. Was about $6 if I remember correctly. I think your itinerary sounds pretty good overall. You can easily pop over to koh samed or koh Chang for a little bit of islands near Bangkok. Very nearby and easy to add to your schedule. I love koh Chang in particular… get a scooter and lots to explore! Cheers
On the subject of SIM Cards:Checking my bank account this morning I discovered a long list of transactions I didn’t recognize.I Immediately called the number on the back of my ATM card and the bank secured my card and is taking the steps necessary to rectify this matter. I just re-entered Thailand from Malaysia where I was told it wasn’t possible to call the USA .I encountered the same scenario in Cambodia .Had I discovered these discrepancies in either one of these places.I don’t how I would deal with this matter. In Thailand I use True Sim Cards, good phone and good internet services.
Thank you very much for the video.. You seem very knowledgeable, May I ask about Dengue fever and Hepatitis A (other diseases too)? Booked a 5 trip with my family (in bangkok) and the responses are very mixed. Some people say it's not really a big deal and the local traffic is more dangerous than any disease.. Other people say get vaccines. I think Dengue fever is actually recommended not to vax for and hepatitis A is still quite low to catch... Any insight would be appreciated.
I believe the dengue vaccine only works if you have had dengue before. If you're only visiting Bangkok, you are at very low risk from anything though. It's largely developed and it's extremely rare to find dengue or malaria here. I took boosters for hep, but overall I haven't met anybody that has had issues in Bangkok specifically.
great tips and much appreciated. I am arriving at BKK on 12/12/23 with a return ticket 34 days later. I have applied for a tourist visa with the online portal operated by the Thai embassy in Washington DC, and so far have not received my e mailed visa. If I understand your video correctly that process is unnecessary, and all I should have to do upon arrival is get a 30 day tourist visa and sometime before it expires get an extension. Is that accurate? Thanks, Howard
Cheers. Thanks for the kind words! This is correct. As your flight is only 4 days after the 30 day exemption expires, you might also just prefer to pay an overstay fine. It’s 500 baht per day, so it should be 2000 baht…which is about the same as doing the extension (1900) but you’ll avoid the headache of going to immigration and waiting around. I’ve paid overstays a couple of times myself. Just keep in mind that if you’re planning to get an Elite or Privilege visa, or you come in and out of Thailand quite a lot on exemptions or tourist visas, you should avoid the overstay. If your just a casual visitor, a few days overstay isn’t an issue.
Hey from Vancouver. :) I was over there (first time) in November,and am thinking of a or 3 month visit late next year. 2 month souns like fly in and get that extension. Sweet. For 3 months what would you recommend ?@@thebangkokguide
thank you ! I'll fnd how to do that online by googling I think .. then loo for a deal on a 3 month rental confident I'll be able to stay... :) @@thebangkokguide
A Krung Sri ATM ate my debit card last week.Returned to Bangkok and went to a Krung Sri ATM that featured a “card less ATM” selection, uncertain and hesitant I went inside and the teller told me I could make an ATM withdrawal at the window,I would need to show my passport.Transaction was a success but if I’m interpreting correctly cardless ATM can only be used with the parent banks issued debit card.
I used to go to thiland a lot and I always took big money I would leave it the safe in my bedroom I never had a problem &I used to go up north it was a lot cheaper &just as good I never got sick there the only thing I found out I was buying breezers they where adout a year out of date when I noticed this I wen back on the 🍺 I come from nothern Ireland 🇮🇪 and we will always say hello to people we meet I would talk to anyone but if they bring money in to the cheat I would say goodbye I found out a lot of the clothes where in the small size I was Medea but a lot of good advice 😊😊
Mefloquine can cause nightmares... Stick with doxycycline and you'll be ok... Learned this in Afghanistan. Some guys screaming in their sleep, for real. But absolutely nobody had that with doxy. But it does make most people sunburn more easily. Thanks for all the info. Just wanted to contribute my experience with anti malaria stuff.
@@thebangkokguide We did a visa extension a month ago on Koh Samui. We didn't get any TM30's entering overland from Malaysia nor on original arrival at Swampy.
About the Royal family actually you can said it but have to be secretively. A lot of young Thais are seeing it differently rn. But in case of Old people some still love and wortship and some of them are totally changed their perspective too. 😅
Taking $20k US in cash with you is a bad idea. If you return to the US with over $10k US, there is an excellent chance it will be seized by Customs. That’s the US limit. Other Western countries may have cash limits also.
Thanks for the input. I wouldn’t recommend bringing 20k as well. It’s just the limit here. Each country will also have their own limits for entering and exiting. I should have added that.
It's a lie, as long as you report the amount on the custom and immigration form, is no problem coming in with any amount, the limit re $10 k, but you can come in into the country, with whatever amount, as long as you declare it on the form!!
For scammers who are Thai, almost all of them are drivers for hire, such as taxis and tuk-tuk. As for scams that invite you to buy products that are fake or low quality and expensive (Jewelry, tailor-made). Most of these people come from South Asia because these people speak English well. If you can distinguish these people by appearance, (Doesn't look like a Thai person) You will avoid scams. But sometimes these two groups of people work together. And if you see a beggar Avoid giving money to beggars. Most beggars for directions come from neighboring countries. These beggars will have someone to supervise them as a human trafficking ring.
have i understood it right that since july 2024 it's now 60 day visa free period? ... that 60d you can extend with 30d ... crazy how they change these :)
It can vary from year to year but it generally starts in December and runs through to April. Some years December and January are reasonably good, but others can be bad. February normally isn’t great. You can check the historical data here: aqicn.org/city/bangkok/
If a person brings into or takes out of, the US in excess of $10,000 in cash, he or she must report it to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Otherwise, the cash may be confiscated by a CBP officer.
When you rented the longer term condo how did you pay for it? My understanding from many stories is that it is very difficult to get a bank account there. And what kind of Visa did you get to live there for 7 years?
I pay using bank transfer. It used to be very easy to open a bank account…last year a lot of banks changed their rules and now it is very difficult if your on a tourist visa. I am on a work visa.
Hey Cal, thanks for your great tips! May I ask if you think it differs for solo female travellers? Also, May I ask what sort of work you do or what might be popular. I’m from England! Thanks Jade
No, for some reason they use a different color logo sometimes. I recommend just checking their website for the location with the best rates and you're good to go!
So I am confused, I am planning a trip to Thailand this coming November for roughly 17 days. I do or I don't need a visa? Also, can you recommend a good area of Bangkok to stay? Not interested in the bar scene nightlife and real touristy area but somewhere that has great street food/restaurants
Don't get too hung up about a visa, you have a US/ UK/EU/Canada Passport, you can get a (no cost) 30 day visa stamped in your passpot at the airport on arrival, it's very easy there.
As a Thai person, I would say the tips in this video are great and truly valuable. It is the best information condensed video about travelling in Thailand I've ever seen. Keep up the good work!!!
Thank you so much for the kind words!
yes thank you @@thebangkokguide
😊1😊😊qqq
Your awesome to listen to .great info straight to the point with no filler babble .much appreciated
Thank you for the kind words!
Your channel just came into my viewing recommends and I've immediately subscribed. Very concise and accurate info. Two things I would add: if around mid day you hear music on loudspeakers and everyone around you stands or stops walking, do the same as it is the national anthem and don't let the two tier pricing put you off or the fact that some places are for Thai only and you won't be let in, just accept it and go on.
Good additional tips! Cheers
Thank you dear for such a precise and intelligently made video.
Thank you for the kind words!
Thanks for all the great tips! We’re planning on spending a couple of months in Thailand, using Bangkok as our base. Your advice on getting apartment rentals is super helpful.
That’s definitely a great plan. Thanks for the kind words and safe travels!
Your videos are great, Cal! They're becoming my number-one go-to as I research a potential extended stay in Thailand
Thanks for the kind words! I hope the videos are helpful!
Wow! your video was great! full of essencial information.
Wonderfull!
Thank you Cal!!!🤩
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for the kind words!
I went to many banks with my passport and ATM card and could not find a single one that would give me money. Had to use the ATM & pay fees. To avoid fees, next visit I brought more cash. When I got home, I discovered about 10% of it had been stolen from my in-room safe box. They didn't take so much I would discover it right away. So, beware: the in-room safes are NOT safe.
Sorry to hear that. Banking here is totally hit or miss. You can legally do something, but a lot of the time the workers don't know what you are talking about. This can be very frustrating. I just learned from another friend of mine that one of the main banks used for opening accounts on tourist visas also stopped doing it.
He seems to make uneducated statements. He should make sure about giving out advice based on what other bloggers post.
Um no.. I've lived here for 7 years and this is exactly what I did for a full year. The fact is that every bank, office or pharmacy follows its own set of 'rules', and they shift depending on the management of the office and worker knowledge... I'm not making any "uneducated statements". Thanks for the input though.
@@thebangkokguideYou are so calm on the hostile troll.❤
@@bighoss9705Troll.
Best free advice Thai travel video on TH-cam.
Thank you for the kind words! It’s much appreciated!
Cal, thank you so much for the great info. It really helps a lot. I’m from Canada,BC. Looking forward to visiting Thailand next month.
I'm glad it was helpful! Thanks for the kind words!
Hey brother, I just discovered your channel, and it’s one of my favorite Thailand channels. I’ll be moving there in 6-12 months, so I’m learning all I can before I get there. Appreciate the time you’ve put into your videos, it will save me a lot of problems!
You have a new subscriber, take care, man! !
Thanks for the kind words! I’m glad it is helpful! Cheers 😊
Why are you moving there without visiting? Risky.
Did you end up moving there?
What a great video. People always write that but this is the first time I've ever written it on a helpful video. Bravo.
Thank you so much for the kind words.
Planning 1st vacation to thailand this june, this video is a gold nugget.
Cheers! I'm happy it was helpful!
Same thanks To this Video see you Thailand
In the rainy season? 😮
As a Canuck about to visit Thailand, appreciate all the tips.
I'm glad they are helpful! Hope you enjoy your trip!
Great video! Appreciate the tips🎾😎
Thanks for the kind words!
Ok Cal, I have been combing TH-cam for someone I can tolerate listening to on Thailand. You so far are the best. You block out road noise, and don't blast people out with loud music. But your run on sentences are like being vomiting on by words. So just please pleasantly talk to us, and give our ear and brains time to ingest all that you are saying please. We want to hear all about it, but we want it to be a great experience in the process. Thank you very much.
Thanks for the kind words. Getting audio right is definitely one of the more challenging parts of production! I think sometimes over editing for speed can cause the word vomit. Thanks for the input!
Agree! I’m tired of hearing vloggers machine gun talking!
This is very loving, helpful advice from a sister Canadian.
Thank you for the kind words!
I had no idea about the issue regarding reviews and will now be checking them against what's said in Google, Tripadvisor and the like. Thank you so much for producing such an excellent and informative video.
Thanks for the kind words! Google reviews are def one of the best resources that I use quite a lot. Cheers!
Excellent tips. presented in za very understandable ways.
Been there for many years and all remarks are spot on. Congratulationcs
Thank you for the kind words 😊🙏
Cal, you are a good egg! I hope your family watches your clips…they will be very proud of you. I think if you make it to 15 years in Thailand, you might permanently call Thailand home. All your tips were great and your maturity and wisdom are prime. Good luck to you…we are from Cali looking to move abroad again!😇
Thank you so much for the kind words! It’s much appreciated. Best of luck looking at options for living abroad!
Super helpful video! Travelling to Thailand next year with family and want to gather as much information as possible prior to travelling.
Cheers 👏💕🇨🇦
Thank you for the kind words! I’m glad it was helpful ☺️
There are no mistakes. Only lessons.
Good point!
Very valuable. Thanks a lot!
Cheers!
Last minute trip monday..thank you the superrich tip was just what i needed
Cheers! I’m glad it was helpful! Safe travels!
This is highly informative! Thanks 👍
Thanks for the kind words!
Planning my trip this year! Thanks for the tips!
Cheers! Safe travels!
Thanks alot for your channel very helpful information i be visiting in March only for a week coming from cebu Phillipines.
I'm glad it was helpful! I hope you have a nice trip!
By 3:30 I was 🤣 Dude made it through all that and is honest about it. Subscribed, my man! Thanks for all the information.
It’s a survival process lol. Cheers!
Very informative video Cal! You deserve way more subs. Thank you, you got yourself a new sub.
Thank you for the kind words!
This is a life saver video ! Kudos too you!
I’m glad it’s helpful! Cheers
Love your vidéos,thanks for sharing,can’t wait to use your tips in january/feb 2025 we are from Quebec /Canada!😜
Cheers! I’m glad they are helpful!
Very informative. Already excited for my scheduled travel to Thailand. Thanks for these tips. ❤❤❤
Thanks for the kind words! Enjoy your travels!
Hey great video. This is one of the better and more informative thai videos I have seen. I have been to thailand 3 times usually a couple weeks each time. I've been to Krabi, bangkok first trip, Bangkok, Hua hinn second time and bangkok only on third trip. We want to go back and try other places.
I purchased travel insurance . I wouldn't recommend buying all those expensive vaccinations unless you are going out into the Forrest. We never used bug spray but that's not a bad idea but I don't think we really need it. Fruit drinks and tea are cheap we usually buy smoothies. We have had no issues with the water but we never really went into the deep Forrest. We never faced anyone trying to scam us except for all the fake brand knockoffs lol. Oh and the massage which was amazing . Pretty girl out front which gave my wife a massage and a 300 lb girl emerged from the back for me hahaha. It was a good massage .
Sounds like some good trips. I'd recommend checking out the north or south next time, both have great places to visit. Or you could checkout some of the islands nearby Bangkok. I love Koh Chang personally, as it's quite large and not too busy...especially in the early rainy season.
Spot on guide to Thailand. I've been there many times and totally agree with youe observations. I made the major faux pas of tapping a bar girl on the head and she freaked! I soon learnt that speaking the local lingo was the go and amazed a friend when we got a tuk tuk from one side of Chiang Mai to the ping riverv for 40 baht. He was a teacher and I taught him the lessoon of showing respect in an Asian culture.
40 baht for a tuktuk is a miracle 😅 cheers!
I paid a tuk tuk 300 baht from far side of Chiang Mai old city to the airport. First time in a tuk tuk and didn't know how far away the airport was, I just assumed that I would be ripped off when negotiated the price, had a good time there though, met some lovely people.
@@georgeh1352 I rarely use tuk tuks for that very reason George. Glad you had a good time.
This is high quality material. Thx👍
Thank you for the kind words!
Great video thank you. I only just subscribed and catching up on some of your videos. I didn’t know about the SuperRich debit card thanks for mentioning it. One question I have on the visa extension, do they grant it as a matter of course or can it be denied? I totally agree about learning Thai. I’ve been to Thailand so many times I finally started to learn Thai last year and have enrolled in a Thai language school. There’s no better way to get to know the people and the culture.
Great way to engage your audience, changing where you stand in each segment and leaning forward towards the camera as if you were talking to someone directly. Well done 😊
Thank you for the kind words! You can be denied for a visa extension but it's quite rare. If you've never had problems or warnings, it is extremely unlikely! Cheers!
So glad to find your channel. You have provided alot of useful information. Thanks
I'm glad it's helpful! Thank you for the kind words!
Thanks Cal. Good info. I knew most of this from deep research before l went in 2019. Moving to Jomtien from Ottawa in January.
Cheers. Sounds like you're well prepared! I lived in Ottawa before I moved here as well...came in January too haha
I'll add a few he didn't mention:
1) If you make a deal for anything, *always* pay the money. Those who don't sometimes wind up in the hospital.
2) Don't aggressively argue or challenge people to fight. You will be fighting 10 people with sticks and bricks, and when the police come you'll be the one going to jail.
3) Pass on the "authentic experience" of the tuk tuk, as it's the worst way to travel. Just take a taxi that uses a meter.
4) Plan on being aggravated sometimes and don't take it personally. The heat and the crowds can wear down anyone's nerves.
5) If you go to Thailand during hot season, you won't feel like being outside more than 10 minutes. The heat will sap all your energy fast.
Good additional tips! Thanks for the input!
Good additions to a great video.
سأزور تايلند قريبا
لقد إستفدت من نصائحك كثير
كل المحبه من المملكه العربيه السعوديه
شكرا لك
Happy to help! Have a great trip!
Fantastic vid! comprehensive & and detailed info
Thank you for the kind words!
i'm so glad i watched your video. i had no idea that airbnb is illegal in Thailand. there's dozens of listings for bangkok. i would have been very mad if i got into trouble or couldn't get to my accommodations
That is correct. It’s actually based on how long you stay (under 30 days requires a hotel license). But you can stay at an Airbnb…just check google reviews for the condo and make sure there aren’t any weird reviews!
Great tips man! Thanks for sharing this 🙏🏼✈️
Thanks for the kind words!
Please keep putting out your vids. Your doing a good job. Your neighbor from Alaska :)
Thank you for the kind words!
Take a photo of address hotel etc easy with taxi ash price
Absolutely helpful tips
Thanks for the kind words! Cheers
Good work man, thank you 🙏
Cheers!
Wow thank you for sharing. Informative 👏👏New subscriber here. God bless 😇
Thank you 🙏 😊
Cal, you're amazing! I subscribed.
Can I ask a question? How do you recommend us to keep our money when travelling? In different areas of the body, backpack, purse? Use card or cash? What's the best way to keep your money and avoid leaving it at the hotel's safe?
Thanks for the kind words! My best advice is to use all of the strategies you discuss. Bring a couple of cards. Credit cards are accepted in a lot of places and are a great option. You can use your home bank card and withdrawal fees at ATMs are reasonable, but you need to take out a decent amount of money as you will pay about $6 per withdrawal. I always took out $500 or so per withdrawal and that’s about a 1% commission. Then I’d recommend splitting up your cash and keeping it in different places (ideally a couple of hidden compartments). I’ve never had any issues with hotel safes over the years but I’ve heard stories about money going missing and I avoid leaving too much money unattended anywhere. I prefer to carry it with me in a hidden pocket… but if you tend to lose money, you may want to withdraw less money each time and just pay a bit more on those withdrawal fees.
How do you find the condos, are there recommended websites for that? Excellent and comprehensive tips, thank you!
I recommend that you watch this video as I walk you through the entire process along with a lot of tips: th-cam.com/video/IPTyyXtav8w/w-d-xo.html
Cheers!
Plenty of valuable information, thanks. New sub.
Thanks for the kind words! Cheers!
Super tipps. Thank you so much.
Cheers! Thanks for the kind words!
Whew! I’m out of breath! Great video!
Thanks for the kind words! It’s a long one haha
I am planning to travel to Thailand for a short holiday. Where do you think I could stay? Bangkok, or Chiangmai, Khaosan,.....I don't drink much, and not interested in drugs.
It depends on the time of year and what you are looking for… Chiang Mai is mountains, Bangkok is city, and you have islands. Avoid staying at khaosan if you don’t drink though..
Great vid! Thanks for the tips.
Thanks for the kind words 🙏
On currency conversion, always check the rate your bank charges for the conversion against what the ATM charges. I found that my US bank gives me a way way way worse conversion than local ATMS. Be mindful of this. Exchange rates vary wildly among ATMS. The one I use is only 0.5 baht below spot. My bank's rate was 8 baht below spot. I would advise against making blanket statements like this. Another blogger said the same thing, I tried it and got a big surprise when I checked my transaction.
That's interesting. I literally read the Investopedia article about dynamic currency conversion before commenting about it, as I always avoided it.
What is your bank? And what ATM do you use in Thailand?
Thanks for the input.
@bighoss9705 I recall seeing your name (hoss) when touring Auschwitz…. ?
@@paulsz6194 never been there...(Rudolf Franz Ferdinand Höss was the commandant of Auschwitz during the holocaust not to be confused with big hoss cartwright)
@@thebangkokguide I was using my ATM card from my credit union but I switched to Chase which is much better (3.0 baht under spot.) The ATM in Thailand is Kasikorn Bank. They post the rate that they pay on the screen. I always check it against spot. When spot was 34.6 it was paying 34.3 Banks and ATMs vary quite a bit. I'm just advising to check before withdrawal, save yourself a few bucks 😉
@@paulsz6194 I responded but UT deleted it
First day in Thailand Don't eat spicy or sour food, eg. salads, tomyum or fruit juices in bottles. Maybe it freeze&thaw. The stomach is not accustomed. Even it's very clean But it may cause diarrhea. In Thailand there are many foreigners. Thai people are friendly and don't steal. But be careful for people from neighboring. smuggled in People who service at street food are not all Thai. However, there are still problems with tuk tuks and taxi ❤❤❤🎉
Good recommendations. Thank you for the input!
Sorry but Thai people do steal. We lost a video camera off a bus on our first trip in 1990 on a night bus to Chiang Mai from Bangkok. We know who too, it but because they are untoucheable, all we could do was file a police report and then claim from our insurance.
Just dicovered you.!
Thanks, something something I knew no.
I can definitely tell you that just a few weeks ago I went around several banks whit my passport and credit card with me and everyone refused to do the service, could you possibly make a dedicated vlog?
Happy new year
Thanks for the input! I heard this from a few friends recently as well. I will make an updated video about it specifically soon. Happy New Year!
Thank you so much for the information
I’m glad it’s helpful! Cheers!
Excuse me Cal, what brand sling bag are you wearing “time stamp 5:45” really like the style & seems like great easy access water bottle holder…is it lightweight?
Ps great info thanks for sharing !
Visiting Thailand for December and really hoping CM&CR aren’t smoky as really like to see the northern temples.
My other question is as a solo guy who can’t spend too long sitting at a beach, likes water yet isn’t the strongest swimmer…well should I check out still an island to adventure??
I’ve got like 17days in&out Bangkok
Thought ample days to explore Bang
Ayutthaya day trip, Sukathai a day +, Chiang Mai a few, swing to Rai …and then I’m not sure as feel have still sometime before the last couple days in Bang again before leave.
I’ve travelled solo before, in my 40s so sorta over hostels nowadays, I’m sober, like to active & sociable.
Anyone I mention going to Thai to here tells me go to x touristy beach and I’m like ?really by myself ? I wanna see natural wild places and wonder snorkeling or koa sok park ??
Or ???
Lol from sling bag to trip planner 😆
Thanks again !!!
I bought that bag here at a store called DIY. Great inexpensive shop in many malls. Was about $6 if I remember correctly.
I think your itinerary sounds pretty good overall. You can easily pop over to koh samed or koh Chang for a little bit of islands near Bangkok. Very nearby and easy to add to your schedule. I love koh Chang in particular… get a scooter and lots to explore! Cheers
Great tips, love your mentioning key respectful points. Thank You
Thank you for the kind words!
Bro seriously! thank you very much
Happy to help and thanks for the kind words!
On the subject of SIM Cards:Checking my bank account this morning I discovered a long list of transactions I didn’t recognize.I Immediately called the number on the back of my ATM card and the bank secured my card and is taking the steps necessary to rectify this matter.
I just re-entered Thailand from Malaysia where I was told it wasn’t possible to call the USA .I encountered the same scenario in Cambodia .Had I discovered these discrepancies in either one of these places.I don’t how I would deal with this matter.
In Thailand I use True Sim Cards, good phone and good internet services.
True is very good as well. Could have been a card skimmer. I avoid paying with my card directly while traveling, as this can happen in some countries.
@@thebangkokguide -Correct.I had the same thing happen before back home in Nevada.Pay with cash as much possible.
Sensational tips my friend 👍
Thank you!
Thank you very much for the video.. You seem very knowledgeable, May I ask about Dengue fever and Hepatitis A (other diseases too)? Booked a 5 trip with my family (in bangkok) and the responses are very mixed. Some people say it's not really a big deal and the local traffic is more dangerous than any disease.. Other people say get vaccines. I think Dengue fever is actually recommended not to vax for and hepatitis A is still quite low to catch... Any insight would be appreciated.
I believe the dengue vaccine only works if you have had dengue before. If you're only visiting Bangkok, you are at very low risk from anything though. It's largely developed and it's extremely rare to find dengue or malaria here. I took boosters for hep, but overall I haven't met anybody that has had issues in Bangkok specifically.
@@thebangkokguide thanks man! appreciate it!
Thank you so much!
Cheers!
Great video my man
Thank you!
You're very helpful and funny.
Thank you for the kind words 🙏😊
Nice video brother 🥊
Thank you 🙏
great tips and much appreciated. I am arriving at BKK on 12/12/23 with a return ticket 34 days later. I have applied for a tourist visa with the online portal operated by the Thai embassy in Washington DC, and so far have not received my e mailed visa. If I understand your video correctly that process is unnecessary, and all I should have to do upon arrival is get a 30 day tourist visa and sometime before it expires get an extension. Is that accurate? Thanks, Howard
Cheers. Thanks for the kind words! This is correct. As your flight is only 4 days after the 30 day exemption expires, you might also just prefer to pay an overstay fine. It’s 500 baht per day, so it should be 2000 baht…which is about the same as doing the extension (1900) but you’ll avoid the headache of going to immigration and waiting around. I’ve paid overstays a couple of times myself. Just keep in mind that if you’re planning to get an Elite or Privilege visa, or you come in and out of Thailand quite a lot on exemptions or tourist visas, you should avoid the overstay. If your just a casual visitor, a few days overstay isn’t an issue.
Hey from Vancouver. :) I was over there (first time) in November,and am thinking of a or 3 month visit late next year. 2 month souns like fly in and get that extension. Sweet. For 3 months what would you recommend ?@@thebangkokguide
@@RickMc99 for 3 months you can do a Single Entry Tourist Visa. 60 days plus the 30 day extension. Very simple to do it!
thank you ! I'll fnd how to do that online by googling I think .. then loo for a deal on a 3 month rental confident I'll be able to stay... :) @@thebangkokguide
@@thebangkokguideOr visa exemption for 60 days then extend. No visa fee only 1900baht to extend
A Krung Sri ATM ate my debit card last week.Returned to Bangkok and went to a Krung Sri ATM that featured a “card less ATM” selection, uncertain and hesitant I went inside and the teller told me I could make an ATM withdrawal at the window,I would need to show my passport.Transaction was a success but if I’m interpreting correctly cardless ATM can only be used with the parent banks issued debit card.
That sounds like not so fun story. Glad you were able to work it out! Yes, the careless option is for the home bank card. Cheers
@@thebangkokguide And just when I thought I was safe: Checking my statement,I find that my non ATM withdrawal with Krung Sri resulted in a $13.42 fee.
I used to go to thiland a lot and I always took big money I would leave it the safe in my bedroom I never had a problem &I used to go up north it was a lot cheaper &just as good I never got sick there the only thing I found out I was buying breezers they where adout a year out of date when I noticed this I wen back on the 🍺 I come from nothern Ireland 🇮🇪 and we will always say hello to people we meet I would talk to anyone but if they bring money in to the cheat I would say goodbye I found out a lot of the clothes where in the small size I was Medea but a lot of good advice 😊😊
Thanks for the input. You provided good additional tips! Cheers!
Mefloquine can cause nightmares... Stick with doxycycline and you'll be ok... Learned this in Afghanistan. Some guys screaming in their sleep, for real. But absolutely nobody had that with doxy. But it does make most people sunburn more easily.
Thanks for all the info. Just wanted to contribute my experience with anti malaria stuff.
Thanks for the input! Similar to my friend who took it. Crazy lucid nightmares. I think it must have been mefloquine. Cheers!
Informative video, thanks!
Glad it was helpful! Cheers!
We just cancelled our trip we are now heading to bali 🎉
Why cancel?
Hsilsnd is very beautifull country nicr view
Thank yiu so much for great sharing my freind
Cheers. Thanks for the kind words!
you also need your tm30 to get 30 day extension as I found out at immigration in Chiang mai yesterday
For a tourist visa? Haven’t heard of that before… I wonder if it’s a random officer or a new rule
@@thebangkokguide We did a visa extension a month ago on Koh Samui. We didn't get any TM30's entering overland from Malaysia nor on original arrival at Swampy.
About the Royal family actually you can said it but have to be secretively. A lot of young Thais are seeing it differently rn. But in case of Old people some still love and wortship and some of them are totally changed their perspective too. 😅
I understand. Foreigners might not be aware of the laws, and should just be careful speaking about politics. Thanks for the comment 😊
Thank you Cal!
Cheers!
I like this video. Thank you for uploading.
Thank you for the kind words! Cheers
Superrich is more tolerant of older or damaged bills when exchanging currency.
I always found they were very good! Never had any complaints ☺️
Taking $20k US in cash with you is a bad idea. If you return to the US with over $10k US, there is an excellent chance it will be seized by Customs. That’s the US limit. Other Western countries may have cash limits also.
Thanks for the input. I wouldn’t recommend bringing 20k as well. It’s just the limit here. Each country will also have their own limits for entering and exiting. I should have added that.
It's a lie, as long as you report the amount on the custom and immigration form, is no problem coming in with any amount, the limit re $10 k, but you can come in into the country, with whatever amount, as long as you declare it on the form!!
@@thebangkokguide
To apply for an “o” retirement visa you need 800k bht. What are your options for bringing in that much money?
TY
@@PatrickPurdy-w8l usually it’s done by bank transfer.
Excellent advise, earned a sub
Cheers! Thanks
ประเทศไทยยินดีต้อนรับค่ะ
Thank you 🙏
Very helpful advice.Thanks!
Glad it was helpful! Cheers!
Thanks for sharing ❤
Cheers!
Great blogs and advice
Thanks for the kind words!
For scammers who are Thai, almost all of them are drivers for hire, such as taxis and tuk-tuk.
As for scams that invite you to buy products that are fake or low quality and expensive (Jewelry, tailor-made). Most of these people come from South Asia because these people speak English well. If you can distinguish these people by appearance, (Doesn't look like a Thai person) You will avoid scams.
But sometimes these two groups of people work together.
And if you see a beggar Avoid giving money to beggars. Most beggars for directions come from neighboring countries. These beggars will have someone to supervise them as a human trafficking ring.
Good tips! Thank you 🙏
have i understood it right that since july 2024 it's now 60 day visa free period? ... that 60d you can extend with 30d ... crazy how they change these :)
Correct. I will need to make an update to this video. Cheers!
I thought burning/smoke season start in late February.
Can someone please update on this.
I’m planning on going in either January or early February
It can vary from year to year but it generally starts in December and runs through to April. Some years December and January are reasonably good, but others can be bad. February normally isn’t great. You can check the historical data here: aqicn.org/city/bangkok/
Thanks 🙏🏻 bro
Cheers 🙏
Great videos, Cal. although it's noticeable that you are not looking at the camera. =P
Haha practice makes perfect
If a person brings into or takes out of, the US in excess of $10,000 in cash, he or she must report it to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Otherwise, the cash may be confiscated by a CBP officer.
That’s correct. Each country will also have their own requirements for leaving the country. Thanks for the input!
I think the 20k will come as a surprise to most.
When you rented the longer term condo how did you pay for it?
My understanding from many stories is that it is very difficult to get a bank account there.
And what kind of Visa did you get to live there for 7 years?
I pay using bank transfer. It used to be very easy to open a bank account…last year a lot of banks changed their rules and now it is very difficult if your on a tourist visa. I am on a work visa.
Hey Cal, thanks for your great tips! May I ask if you think it differs for solo female travellers? Also, May I ask what sort of work you do or what might be popular. I’m from England! Thanks
Jade
is there a difference between SuperRich with orange logo and SuperRich with green logo?
No, for some reason they use a different color logo sometimes. I recommend just checking their website for the location with the best rates and you're good to go!
Thanks 👍 it’s Saul good man
Haha cheers!
WOW ! Such an informative video!!THANK U VERY MUCH! 🤗
Cheers! I'm glad it was helpful!
So I am confused, I am planning a trip to Thailand this coming November for roughly 17 days. I do or I don't need a visa? Also, can you recommend a good area of Bangkok to stay? Not interested in the bar scene nightlife and real touristy area but somewhere that has great street food/restaurants
Which country are you from? I recommend you watch my recent video about where to stay as it covers everything you would need to know!
@@thebangkokguide United States
Don't get too hung up about a visa, you have a US/ UK/EU/Canada Passport, you can get a (no cost) 30 day visa stamped in your passpot at the airport on arrival, it's very easy there.
@@georgeh1352NOT a visa!!!!! It's an exemption from having a visa.
Hi great video can you tell me what local hotels to stay at
It depends where you want to stay in the city. I’m finishing a video on place to stay now. Cheers
@@thebangkokguide Hi thanks 🙏🏻 for responding I appreciate it thinking of staying Silom and Siam.
Both great areas. Nice 4 and 5 star hotels at good prices in both!
thanks man
Cheers!