The Thailand Travel Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
Wrong season, islands booked too early, classic scams... here are the most common traps, and how to avoid them so you can travel with peace of mind.
After more than three years on the ground and dozens of trips planned, I keep seeing the same mistakes come back. The good news is that they are all easy to avoid once you know them. Here are the main ones.
1. Choosing the wrong season
This is mistake number one, and it can ruin a trip. Thailand does not have a single climate: the west and east coasts of the islands have staggered rainy seasons. Heading to Koh Samui in November (rainy) while Krabi is sunny is exactly the kind of detail that changes everything.
Worth remembering
The general dry season runs from November to March. But for the islands, you choose the coast according to the month. That is precisely what I check for every trip.
2. Trying to see everything
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui... in ten days? You would spend your time on planes and buses. Two regions properly lived are better than five skimmed over. Travelling also means having the right to do nothing for an afternoon.
3. Booking all your islands too early
Many people lock in their whole stay before leaving. The result is no room for that little corner of paradise someone recommends on the spot, or to stay one more night where you feel good. Fix the key arrivals, and keep some flexibility for the rest.
4. Falling for the classic scams
- The "cheap" tuk-tuk that actually takes you to partner shops: politely refuse and prefer ride-hailing apps.
- The "temple closed today" line: a stranger tells you the site is closed and offers a paid alternative. It is false, check for yourself.
- Scooter rental with your passport as a deposit and invented fees for "scratches". Take photos, keep a copy, choose a reputable renter.
5. Neglecting cash and payments
Outside the big cities, many small restaurants and markets only take cash. Remember to withdraw regularly (ATMs charge a fixed fee, so withdraw larger amounts, less often).
6. Forgetting respect for places and customs
Shoulders and knees covered in temples, shoes off, and no turning your back on the Buddha for a selfie. These are simple gestures that radically change how people welcome you. I cover this in detail in my guide to temples and customs.
The best advice I can give: stay flexible, curious and respectful. Thailand will give it back a hundredfold.
7. Believing that support costs more
This is the most persistent myth. I take no commission and I know the fair prices: very often, my travellers save on activities and transport what my support costs, while gaining precious time. We can talk about it whenever you like.
