In Thailand hours of work are 08.30 till 17.00 p.m. but most family stores are opened until 22.00. All shops on Phi Phi Island are open till 22.00 except the Dive shops that close at 21.00

The Phi Phi Islands are 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.

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.

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.

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 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. You will usually be given both a fork and spoon. It is polite to use the spoon only and use the fork only 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.

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.

There are no large hospitals on Phi Phi, so any serious illness should be treated in Phuket where there are several first class international hospitals. There is a local health centre on Phi Phi Island in Tonsai Bay.

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. There are a few small pharmacies on Phi Phi Don as well as little shops that sell basic first-aid supplies.

Thai is the official language in Thailand. However, you will find English, with varying degrees of fluency, spoken in tourist areas.

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. Depending on which country you are from, you may be eligible for a 30 day visa on arrival. 

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.