Stay safe when you travel in Thailand

Thailand is a major tourist destination, with many thousands of visitors arriving daily and despite the recent protests in Bangkok, Thailand remains a safe and easy country to travel. However, as with travel anywhere it is always good to take a few precautions and to be aware of the hazards, in order to keep yourself out of harm’s way when travelling in the ‘Land of smiles’.

1. Robberies
One of the most common crimes against foreigners in Thailand is robbery. Most of the time tourists are not even aware that its happening to them, such as being short changed at a restaurant or bar. When handing over money to someone, make sure you know what denomination note you are handing over and always count your change. 

Keep an eye on your possessions, most theft is opportunistic. This is especially true if you are taking buses within the country. Generally your luggage goes below, and this makes for a great opportunity for someone to rifle through your stuff. Make sure that everything is safe and secure with a couple of small padlocks.

2. Bag snatches
Always carry you bag across you body, rather than just on your shoulder. There have been numerous cases of bag snatching recently, and some of them have ended in tragic circumstances. If you are hiring a motorbike, or if you are a pillion passenger, put your bag under the saddle or hold it in front of you. Bag snatching from baskets and from your shoulder as you are driving does occur, and can have horrific results.

3. Beware of drugging
This can be problem for both male and female travelers to Thailand. Sleeping tablets are easily available and that innocuous drink could contain more than just Thai whiskey. Be especially careful at the full moon parties.

4. Always agree on the price before you get in
When taking any form of transport, be it a 2 Bhat bus, speedboat or motorcycle taxi, agree on the price before setting off. If you are taking a taxi, insist that the driver uses the meter and make sure he switches it on. It's better to get a moving taxi, than one that is waiting at the end of a road, especially in popular tourist spots like the Koa San Road. These taxi drivers are more likely to charge you a highly inflated, fixed fare, and invariably will refuse to use the meter.

5. Always smile
No matter what the situation, never get angry. Shouting, pointing and generally aggressive behavior will get you nowhere in Thailand except in hot water! If you have been wronged, don't lose your cool. Try and deal with the situation as politely as possible, and seek help from other tourists or the tourist police.

Hopefully these tips can help you stay safe during your time in Thailand and prevent you from becoming a statistic. Don't ruin your holiday by leaving yourself open to an opportunistic crime.