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Traveler FAQs: Thailand

Thailand, Education, Traveler FAQ

Updated this week

We offer several trips to Thailand, with different itineraries. However, we are often asked frequent questions regarding what to prepare. From accommodations to tipping Guides, you can find the answers here!

Click on the question you're interested in to view the answer. If you can't find what you're looking for, please reach out to our Customer Support team here.

Activities

What is the dress code when visiting temples?

When you visit Thai temples, you are expected to dress appropriately. Women should wear skirts longer than knee length or long pants. Long pants should be worn by men too. Both, men and women should cover their shoulders.

Can we touch and feed elephants at the Elephant Nature Park Visit?

The Elephant Nature Park's policy is that there is no interaction with the elephants, only observation - this is for both the safety of the elephants, as well as for the travelers visiting. TrovaTrip and our local operating partners will only partner with wildlife sanctuaries that treat their animals well and do not put them in harm's way. You can find more information regarding TrovaTrip's Ethical Tourism here. As many of these elephants at the sanctuary have left behind a traumatic past, observing them in this way provides the elephants opportunities to live out the rest of their lives fear-free among the natural surroundings of the sanctuary. Additionally, the Elephant Nature Park is one of the World Animal Protection's best practice venues in Thailand, as it is one of the venues that offer the highest level of care for their elephants. You can review more information on World Animal Protection's website here.

Currency

Are tips included?

Tips for guides, drivers and restaurants are not included. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

  • Guides --> USD $5 per person/per day

  • Drivers --> USD $3 per person/per day

  • Restaurants (full service) --> $0.50 per person per meal

  • Hotels (assistance with luggage) --> $0.50 - $1 per bag

  • Hotels (housekeeping) --> $0.50 - $1 per bag

Meals

Is the water safe to drink?

Tap water should be avoided by travelers. For drinking water, make sure to drink treated water or purchase bottled water. You should also avoid brushing your teeth with the tap water when possible.

Transfers

What is the airline that is used for the domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket?

The airline booked can vary depending on availability, but typically, the local Operator, Discova Thailand, books with Bangkok Airways.

What are the sleeping arrangements like for the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Travelers will be in 2nd class sleepers. These are not fully private rooms; however, the seats on the sleeper train turn into private bed spaces with curtains.

Are there any specific luggage restrictions for the Bangkok to Chiang Mai sleeper train?

No, the typical TrovaTrip luggage guidelines are appropriate and acceptable for the Bangkok to Chiang Mai sleeper train.

How long is the sleeper train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Approximately 12 hours.

Are there luggage restrictions on the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Pha Ngan?

No, the typical TrovaTrip luggage guidelines are appropriate and acceptable for the Koh Samui to Koh Pha Ngan ferry.

Is Uber or Lyft available?

Uber is not in Thailand, but there is a ride share app called Grab.

What type of transportation is available in Thailand?

Three-wheeled tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorcycle taxis are readily available.

Please refer to the Trip Prep Guide here for additional information about Thailand.

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