Krabi Travel Tips

In Thailand hours of work are 08.30 till 17.00 p.m. but most family stores are opened until 22.00. Most commercial concerns in Bangkok operate on a five-day week, usually from 8 am to 5 pm. Many stores open seven days a week from 10 am to 10 pm. Government offices are generally open between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm with a noon to 1 pm lunch break, Monday to Friday except on public holidays. Banks are open Mondays to Fridays from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm except on public holidays

Business Offices: 08:00-5:00, Monday to Friday
Banks: 08:30-3:30, Monday to Friday
Post Offices: 08:30-4:30, Monday to Friday
Department Stores and Shops: Check individual store as times vary.

Krabi is considered a very safe destination as crime involving foreigners is very low. It is wise, however, to observe all normal precautions in crowded areas and remain vigilant and alert. Practice common sense when traveling and keep your eyes on your belongings.

Travelers to Krabi, should exercise caution when approached by anyone attempting to sell gems, or to refer you to gem dealers. There have been many reports made about visitors scammed by fraudulent gem dealers.

The Thai Baht is Thailand’s official currency. Bills come in denominations of 1000, 500, 100, 50 and 20. Coins are 10, 5, 1 and tiny satangs. Satangs are quarter fractions of 1 and are not widely used.

Although most hotels accept credit cards, it is still advised that you keep some cash on hand in order to do business with the local vendors and shop owners.

Major currency bills and travellers cheques are cashed easily at hotels, tourist shops, all provincial banks, shopping centres and money changers. Travellers cheques are best changed in banks (you will need your passport). Rates of exchange at banks or authorised money changers are better than those at hotels and department stores. Banks and currency exchange booths can be found throughout Krabi and ATMs are plentiful.

220 volts and uses a 2 pin plug

The traditional Thai greeting gesture is called a wai (hands placed together in a prayer position at the chest, chin or forehead). There are various levels of wais, the best is to just imitate the wai that is being given to you, or place your hands at your chest. Most Thais are not accustomed to shaking hands, but more are adopting this western approach when meeting foreigners.

Generally speaking, Thais have a modest and polite culture. Though you may see some foreign women sun-bathing without their tops on, it is offensive to the Thais and looked down upon. Light, cool clothes are sensible and a jacket is needed for formal meetings and dining in top restaurants.

When visiting a Buddhist temple, dress modestly. Shoulders and thighs should be covered. It is a good idea to carry a sarong with you in case your day of sightseeing finds you at a temple.

While Thais are a very relaxed and friendly people, there are a few unique things about Thai table manners and dining etiquette that should be remembered. Dining is a social activity in Thai culture and most Thai eating come from the fact that most the meals are taken communally rather than small groups or couples. Food is shared and you find many people eating out of the same bowl or dish.

If you are dining with Thai friends or business colleagues, you can expect to see a wide variety of dishes and flavours on offer. You serve yourself, but you should always wait until the host or hostess invites you to begin. When serving yourself, take only a small amount of each dish so there is enough food to go around. Also, you should not leave your chopsticks in the bowl as it symbolizes death and is considered to bring about bad luck. Do not put your fork into your mouth and only use your fork to push food onto your spoon. It is considered impolite to pick your teeth without covering your mouth with a napkin or your hand.

In Thai society, the person who is perceived to be the richest pays the bill. So if a bill comes to you, it is expected that you pay. However, don't attempt to contribute if someone else is paying the bill, it takes away from their status.

Tipping is not standard practice in Thailand, although it is becoming increasingly common. Many larger hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip but the gesture is appreciated and 10-20 baht is acceptable for porters.

Probably the most common health risk is sunburn. Thailand is close to the equator, which means the rays of the sun are strong and can burn skin quickly and easily. Everyone wants to return home with a holiday tan, however, use caution, sunscreen and begin your tanning process slowly to build up a base. Be sure to drink plenty of water too. Never drink tap water. Most restaurants serve safe bottled water, except for some very rural stalls which may boil their drinking water first. Ice is safe to use. 

It is advisable when travelling to any foreign destination that you check with your local hospital as to what inoculations or medications you may need for your trip. Thailand does not require any pre-arrival vaccinations, unless you are coming from Africa, then a yellow fever vaccination is usually required. 

Malaria and Dengue fever exist in Thailand, but are not common in most tourist areas. Particular precautions should be taken in remote areas or areas near the northern borders. Aside from any disease they may carry, mosquitoes can be bothersome so wear repellent and/or long sleeves and trousers when going outside at night.

Medical facilities in Krabi are adequate for any emergencies that may arise. Travellers are encouraged to obtain comprehensive medical insurance prior to their arrival.

Hospitals: Krabi Hospital 325 Auttarakit Rd., T.Paknam, Muang, Krabi 81000; Tel 611-202, 611-210, 611-2203

Pharmacies in Thailand are pretty well-stocked. However, if you require any specific medication, it’s a good idea to bring an adequate supply with you. Pharmacies are plentiful in Krabi and you may even find your same medication in Thailand at a fraction of the price, so you could stock up before returning home!

Thai is the official language in Thailand. However, English is widely understood in tourist areas and Thai-English road and street signs are found nationwide.

The time in Thailand is seven hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time
(+ 7 hours GMT).

Entry into Thailand requires a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry. If your passport will expire while in Thailand, be sure to obtain a new one before arriving or you may be refused entry. 

Tourist Visas are available by applying at any Thai Embassy or Consulate before travelling. As visa regulations are in flux and can always change, it is wise to check with the nearest Thai Embassy in your home country or visit Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs web-site at: www.mfa.go.th/web/12.php for current information.

Krabi Tourist Association
289/22 Uttrakit Road, Muang, Krabi 81000 Thailand
Tel. 0 7562 3944, 0 7562 3955
Email: info@krabi-tourism.com