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What are some embarrassing mistakes foreigners make in Thailand that others should avoid?
expat advicecultural faux pas Thailand experiencesvisa rulesThai etiquettemistakes foreigners makeThai language misunderstandingstravel tips for Thailand
Apr 22, 2024
2 years ago
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERTell us your red faced moment in Thailand you wished never happened so new travellers do not make the same mistake.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The community shares personal anecdotes about embarrassing mistakes made in Thailand, providing valuable lessons for new travelers. Common themes include misunderstanding cultural norms, such as dressing inappropriately for temple visits or miscommunicating in Thai, leading to humorous yet red-faced moments. Others highlight practical advice, like being cautious with mosquitoes, ensuring helmets while riding scooters, and being aware of visa requirements to avoid unforeseen issues. These stories aim to help newcomers navigate Thailand with more awareness and sensitivity.
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Antonio ********
Why are all the go go girls from Issam and Buri ram ?
Steve **********
@Antonio *******
it's Isaan , because the left side of Thailand work in Bkk, or ChiangmaiAntonio ********
@Steve *********
ok but issan is east of Thai,I'm guessing it's just cause it's a poor part of Thailand,but then so is surath thaniReply to
Antonio ********
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Jarrad ********
I got the words for water and penis mixed up, I asked for a frozen penis in my whisky, instead of an ice cube 🤘🏻
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERLol, I suggest you never ask the bar staff for a Pena Colada, just in case 🤣
Jarrad ********
@Why****
Good advice 😅Reply to
Jarrad ********
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Ken *********
I don't get bit by mosquitos. Not kidding. I must not be delicious.
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERSounds like you've been around the block Sophie 👍 and for the ladies playing along at home... females are not permitted to touch monks. If an exchange of item or offering is to occur, it is typically placed on a cloth and gathered by the monk, never directly hand to hand. Good lessons. TY Sophie 🙏
Sophie *********
Don't try to shake hands with a monk. Don't drink the water. Don't forget insurance. Don't forget your international driving license. Don't change your money before you arrive. Don't overstay your visa. Don't assume Thailand is, in fact, the land of smiles, especially if you're a male, farang abuser.
Gordon *******
Easy fix for bites but people don't listen.
Stéfan ********
Not turning on my phone camera when a cop threatened me
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERStefan, I feel you misinterpreted my rambling. It was not directed at your own circumstances but rather to those whom might be reading that may be of lesser experience than ourselves. Whereby, a little knowledge may just enlighten their awareness of reality. We all started from the beginning. I realise You are already a little further along in your trails, but not everybody has experienced what you have. I hope your personal circumstances pan and develop to your favour.
Good luck 🙏
Good luck 🙏
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTEROf course, I don't know the circumstances of this event... but, here is what I do know...
...the biggest mistake a foreigner can make in Thailand is assuming that an incident, circumstance, situation, event, etc, is viewed, compared, handled or seen as that equally to their own country of origin.
You must recognise and accept that you are a guest of the Kingdom. So many factors, when responding to any challenge in a foreign country can determine your best and most appropriate course of response. They can include culture, religion, society expectations, social acceptances, legislation and much more. Your immediate course of action should be to comply with the expectations of those in authority, especially law enforcement.
Always stop and think before you prematurely respond with an inappropriate, and potentially dangerous knee jerk reaction.
Safe and happy travels 🙏
...the biggest mistake a foreigner can make in Thailand is assuming that an incident, circumstance, situation, event, etc, is viewed, compared, handled or seen as that equally to their own country of origin.
You must recognise and accept that you are a guest of the Kingdom. So many factors, when responding to any challenge in a foreign country can determine your best and most appropriate course of response. They can include culture, religion, society expectations, social acceptances, legislation and much more. Your immediate course of action should be to comply with the expectations of those in authority, especially law enforcement.
Always stop and think before you prematurely respond with an inappropriate, and potentially dangerous knee jerk reaction.
Safe and happy travels 🙏
Stéfan ********
@Why****
Thanks for the rambling. But being visited a 2am by a cop who informs me that it will be “better” for me to drop a case after being robbed by a hotel owner isn’t fun. You can keep on wearing rose tinted glasses, but I will video every interaction with the police.Reply to
Stéfan ********
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Sk **********
Come with whole family, Whole Europe,Israel and Russia are here 😁
Brown ********
I gave a regular 3000 baht towards her daughter's schooling once knowing I'd never get it back but was stupid enough to think offering it too her for 2 short times in return she'd honour the loan because we'd had some rocking times already. The inevitable happened that night I called her around for that first short time repayment. No show, no message on the night. The girl messaged me a day or 2 later apologising she had dramas but I at least woke up and didn't fall for that shit and just replied she was a typical you know what and never messaged her again. The only intellectual move I made in this incident was saying no too her original
*****
request but fell for the anything would help 2nd request. But at the end I looked at it like her short times ended up being 2000 a pop than 1500 or there abouts and considering I have been with starfish gogo girls paying them 3000 it didn't seem to bad and knowing she had a daughter I just looked at it like I fed the daughter with it so write it off to charity and know the girl is more than likely still selling too this day while I'm still retired living good and easySharon *****************
Got drunk at nt an went in sea massive waves an they took me. No more gin for me lol.
Steve **********
Uh uh, not a chance !
Bill *********
💩 my shorts from something 😀 while rushing back to Hotel on scooter . Like lava .
Berkley *********
Lol
Neil ********
Never mix laxatives and public busses....
Duvee *******
Giving a Thai girl 30k baht as a loan 😆
Brown ********
@Duvee ******
no matter how many of us have fallen for this, us blokes will never learn this oneDuvee *******
@Brown *******
I just count it into my spending now lolBrown ********
@Duvee ******
if you stay 30 days it's only 1k a day extra so it's a good way to look at itDuvee *******
@Brown *******
I want to go back I'm in manila now and got my phone stolen from a pick pocketReply to
Duvee *******
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Steve **********
@Duvee ******
you're lucky you got off so cheap.Duvee *******
@Steve *********
yeah I knew what it was after that. I'm in manila now, not nearly as good as Bangkok now I'm thinking that 30k wasn't so badReply to
Duvee *******
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Steve **********
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Ele *******
I brought my wife
Jason **********
Drinking tap water for the first 5 days off arriving then being told by the hotel staff I probably won’t die but please don’t drink it again. 😆
Brenton ******
The biggest mistake I made was actually believing the mileage on scooters for sale is correct.
Glen ********
My red face moments revolve around trying to speak Thai. Like once I tried to say I can ride a motorcycle and it came out as I can 💩 on a motorcycle. The subtle difference between kee (💩) and keeee (ride)
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERLol. I've heard it a few times, your not the first 😆
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Why****
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Rich *********
I caught hypothermia in a brothel! 😬
Paulpé ********
Ask little spicy 🥵
Bill *********
Don't smack your sister-in-law on the ass. 😂
Simon **********
I told a masseuse I didn’t have an erection, when I meant to say I was not cold when she offered me a blanket.
Stan ************
Booking flights back home lol
Jae *******
Haven't had one 🤷
Mark *********
1994 paid 1500 us for gems that turned out to be glass!
Deborah **********
I told my daughter, don’t eat fish! What did I do, eat fish and threw up for 2 days!
Neale **********
What goes on in Pattaya, stays in Pattaya!! 🤐
Greg ***********
when the beautiful chick I hit up in a Sukhumvit discotheque in 1998, in my hotel room turned out to have had all testicles removed. "She"would stand any test when you try to feel it through her clothes . . . BTW we are still friends until today ! . . Milks is a very speicial person, he/she got a university degree
Bonnie *********
Dressing inappropriately to visit a temple complex.
Read cultural do’s and don’ts until you understand.
Read cultural do’s and don’ts until you understand.
David **********
Do not go out alone in major tourist centre's due to drink spiking. Nearly killed me.
Geo ******
20 years ago I talked down about a Thai Bargirl in front of hi so wealthy Thai lady who angrily put me in my place by telling me that girl never had the opportunities I grew up with
Eddie ***********
Getting a return ticket 🤷🏻♂️🤷🏻♂️😂😂
T ****************
Carry a roll of TP while walking around because many public toilets don’t have any.
Bob *********
What was that big deal but leaving Bangkok headed for bkk airport I paid for the whole trip but all he gave me was a black token. So I got scammed for a little bit of money but when he gave me the black token I knew something was weird about it, and should have said something. But I was in a hurry. Scammed into BTS station lol. The worst part was I had to wait for the whole line to go through before I finally put the token in. There's always one of us isn't there?
Trevor *******
I recorded a great live guitar song from afar, only realizing it was creepy after the couple in front of him both looked at me wondering why I was recording them.
Mike *******
Just hopped in a rickshaw asking him if he would take me to the nearest grocery store. After trying to get me to step out at a strip club and then a tailor he brought me right back to where we started and told me there was one right around the corner. 😂
T ****************
@Mike ******
“rickshaw” ?Mike *******
@T ***************
Sorry I meant tuk tukReply to
Mike *******
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Chris *********
Getting a massage from someone blind in chiang mai. The masseuse being blind hit my testicles with a swipe of their hand.
Colin *********
@Chris ********
I bet that didn't hurt 🤣Did she apologise by saying 'sorry for the b@lls up' ? 🤣 🤣 🤣
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Colin *********
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Richard ******
Also make sure you have your international driving licence on you as its a fine on the spot even if you have one but it's in the hotel.
T ****************
@Richard *****
Incorrect, my Utah drivers license worked fine. I did NOT need an “international“ drivers license.Reply to
T ****************
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Pygo ********
Not a 'red faced' moment, but i recommend wearing a helmet when you rent a scooter.
The traffic police pull farangs, never Thais.
Only cost 500 baht but is was a bit of a hassle, luckily my Thai girlfriend sorted it.
And we got helmets next day.
The traffic police pull farangs, never Thais.
Only cost 500 baht but is was a bit of a hassle, luckily my Thai girlfriend sorted it.
And we got helmets next day.
Steven *******
@Pygo *******
The fine is 1000 baht on Phuket now.John *********
@Pygo *******
Spent a nice 20 minutes or so sitting on the corner, drinking a beer and watching Krabi police set up an inspection station right in front of the police kiosk on Thanon Utarkit. Pulled over everybody that passed without helmets. Did not see any impounded bikes though.Reply to
John *********
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Richard ******
Squeeze a lime in to your hand a rub it over each leg keeps the mosquitoes at bay.doing it 5 years every Limited bites
Sean ****
Eating amazing bbq octopus and asking for more sauce and saying "nam jim" rising tone (pussy water) instead of "nam jim" falling tone (sauce) - crazy language
Andrew ********
Driving myself on Thai roads for the first time and an oncoming driver on a single track road flashing their headlights at me. I found out this doesn't mean 'after you good sir' as in the UK but 'I'm not slowing down now get out of my way quick'.
Melissa *********
@Andrew *******
hehe in usa there are so many meanings for flashing headlights. It can mean get out of my way, slow down because there is a traffic coo ahead etcReply to
Melissa *********
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Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERMany years ago my wife got annoyed with me about, I still don't know what, but she through me out of the house. In those days 30mins out of BKK not too many ppl spoke good English. So I caught a tuk tuk into Patpong where I knew ppl spoke good English. I walked into The Rose Hotel (I think it's still there) I said I'd like to book a room for 3nights pls... she said 3 nights, yes pls 3nights. She stared at me blank faced and burst into laughter. I didn't know what she was laughing at. She turned around to a room full of colleagues and spoke a few words in Thai which brought on laughter from the entire staff in unison filling the foyer with a chorus which brought back memories I had as a child in church at Sunday bible studies. I was fuming and so embarrassed and I still didn't know why. So after my PTSD was triggered the room fell to a deafaning silence. She then calmly explained to me... Sir, this is Patpong... nobody has ever asked for a booking longer than three hours. You can book for 1hr, 2hr or 3hr, no more she said. At that moment it dawned on me why everybody was laughing at me. I didn't have to speak Thai to now know what she told her colleagues. I was so embarrassed. Well, it's something I can laugh about in my older years i guess. 555
Colin *********
@Why****
did you extend your stay? Are you still there? 🤣 🤣 🤣Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERYes... I was back at home after one lonely night and we had many loving years together. With one offspring now aged 32yrs. What ever it was that I said to upset her that day, I must never have said it again, because we had many years together following.
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Why****
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Stefanie *********
Not getting full health insurance. Many of the long stays I’d met early on said don’t bother, treatment is so cheap. Well it is, until it isn’t 😵💫
Michael ********
Using the local toilet , always afraid I fall in . Lol
Kyle *********
flashing headlights mean cars are NOT stopping!
Charlie ******
Stay away from sex drug ladyboy
Kev *********
Talking about snow. I was asked if we had snow in England. Thai word for snow is hema. The word hema should be pronounced short and crisp. Instead I replied we don't have hee maa which means we don't have dog cnuts. But then if you ask a Thai to say 'itchy' they'll say 'cun' which can sound quite bad. 🤔
Frank *************
"Oh my gosh!...I've had so many I can't count!...I mean there were so many I've had myself and I've seen so many by other foreigners!...there were so many I can't name a single one!...because...you know...there were so many!" 😜
Corey *******
Sadao Border Corruption.
Xjwhudkwhry ********
my redface moment: coming to this shithole and staying there hoping i can adjust my mentality.
Colin *********
@Xjwhudkwhry *******
they say that nothing is impossible... well, maybe that's not quite true 😉🤣Reply to
Colin *********
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Steve ********
I ate a 500 thc gummy bear in one go , because who eats little bits of a gummy bear ?
Paul *****
Striped red and white curbs, no (matter how many bikes are parked in the same area) will result in your bike being chained up and fined for a cool $500 baht.
Bike taxis will wait for it to happen and offer you a ride to the police station, and they will double up on passengers. So be prepared to be hugged or hug a stranger in the 90 degree heat 😅
Also cops don’t barter at the police station, I had to try 😂
Bike taxis will wait for it to happen and offer you a ride to the police station, and they will double up on passengers. So be prepared to be hugged or hug a stranger in the 90 degree heat 😅
Also cops don’t barter at the police station, I had to try 😂
Houssam *********
Don’t overstay
Christopher *************
No let them learn too
Frank *********
When a ladyboy grabbed my sack in suhhumvit… 🙏
Steve **********
@Frank ********
how long before you were marriedFrank *********
@Steve *********
Luckily I have never marriedStay away from Nana plaza on the weekends my friends… 555
Steve **********
@Frank ********
haha, met who I thought was future wife in 2000 in Nana. forget name of bar....oops, Golden Bar st level Nana hotel.Still here, learned quick ! still single...love every day
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Steve **********
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Russell ***********
Traveling visa trouble. There's so much info out there that is frequently changing.
Bought a ticket to Saigon from BKK. Showed up at the airport and was asked for my entry visa to Vietnam. I had read that I could get visa on arrival, but this was not correct.
I had to scrap that trip and went to Vientiane instead. Same day ticket, since my visa was expiring, so it was not cheap.
Do research from official government websites, or chat with a travel agent. Don't trust the mountains of misinformation on the internet.
Bought a ticket to Saigon from BKK. Showed up at the airport and was asked for my entry visa to Vietnam. I had read that I could get visa on arrival, but this was not correct.
I had to scrap that trip and went to Vientiane instead. Same day ticket, since my visa was expiring, so it was not cheap.
Do research from official government websites, or chat with a travel agent. Don't trust the mountains of misinformation on the internet.
Nick ************
Went to the lavatory at a car service station. There was only one for staff and it was a bit basic. Having performed all I could find as a bum gun was a hose on the floor. I aimed and turned it on and was instantly soaked from head to foot. It was the hose they used to wash the cars.
Colin *********
@Nick ***********
could have been worse...a hose connected to a drum of car oilReply to
Colin *********
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Nick ************
I sat down at one of those stone tables outside a shop. There were quite a lot of them. I waited for service for ten minutes as I was desperate for a beer. Turned out the shop sold the stone tables and had no beer.
Ben **********
@Nick ***********
they would also have beer. Probably would've sold you one for $6 USD if you asked.Nick ************
@Ben *********
I went next door and got one for 50 baht.Reply to
Nick ************
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Nick ************
I went to get my haircut. The barber started getting a bed ready. Strange I thought. I was told to lie down. The barber was next door.
Seb ***********
Shake your towel for giant centipedes if you dry it outside.
Camille *******
@Seb **********
rule for traveling anywhere and everywhere. Always shake out your stuff before using. Had an earwig fall onto my face cause I forgot with my water bottle. Thankfully it was just an earwig.Reply to
Camille *******
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Juls ******
If your name is Julien or close, when you notice that Thai ppl have difficulty to pronounce it, DO NOT tell them to call you "dju" or "djudju"...
Ben **********
@Juls *****
your thai name is Durian.Juls ******
@Ben *********
or "dju lek" 😅Ben **********
@Juls *****
hopefully u don't smell like one🤣Reply to
Ben **********
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ธารา ********
I told my house keeper to use the bum gun to clean water bottles. I was new here, and she thought this was pretty funny.
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERLol... you made an @ss of yourself 🤣
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Why****
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Dave **********
Where's the fun in that...
Chris ****
Saying “Khap khun ka” to my Muay Thai Kru my first week…I’m a Krap.
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERI was stopped on a motorcycle in pattaya to be fined for riding three persons on the bike. The motorcycle that pulled me up had five cops on their bike... go figure 🤷
Melissa *********
I have been known to wai everyone and animals.. trying to break the habit. :)
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTER🙏🙏🙏
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Why****
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Maurie *******
Never take a bottle of beer on a bus for me it was shame shame shame
Chris ***********
Mixing a boy up with a girl?
Wyn **********
Getting fined for doing the same as the locals.
Brown ********
@Wyn *********
riding a bike without helmet. We've all been thereTerary **********
@Wyn *********
I do that frequently. Usually the fine is only 500baht so I don't bother learning my mistakes.Reply to
Terary **********
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David *******
Do no point and tach anything or any men with your legs ( like I did in a temple).
Chris ******
Ordering a big Ham sandwich in Subway , I ordered a HAM YAI ,this translates to Big Cxck ..
Marc ************
Life is a journey individually to each and every. Make your own mistakes a d learn from them along the way
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERWhen I was new in Thailand and didn't speak Thai too well (about 1990) I made a huge embarrassment of myself...
The Thai word for luggage is 'Gabouw' the Thai word for scrotum is 'Gaborg' ... we were at BKK airport with the family and others... my Thai mother in-law was maybe mid 60's. We were about to travel international, mother and I waited together, bags on floor while everybody did some shopping. Shopping done, Everybody returned and we were off to board the flight. Everyone started to pick-up their bags... I said in Thai to mother... no, no Ma... dont worry I'll carry your Gaborg. How embarrassing everybody in earshot just started laughing so loud, even strangers nearby started laughing at me, then it seemed like the whole terminal was laughing at me... I had told my mother in-law that I would carry her scrotum for her. Gulp!, I was left very red faced and very embarrassed. Oh well, you live and you learn. Well, most of us.
The Thai word for luggage is 'Gabouw' the Thai word for scrotum is 'Gaborg' ... we were at BKK airport with the family and others... my Thai mother in-law was maybe mid 60's. We were about to travel international, mother and I waited together, bags on floor while everybody did some shopping. Shopping done, Everybody returned and we were off to board the flight. Everyone started to pick-up their bags... I said in Thai to mother... no, no Ma... dont worry I'll carry your Gaborg. How embarrassing everybody in earshot just started laughing so loud, even strangers nearby started laughing at me, then it seemed like the whole terminal was laughing at me... I had told my mother in-law that I would carry her scrotum for her. Gulp!, I was left very red faced and very embarrassed. Oh well, you live and you learn. Well, most of us.
James **************
Not sure what's going on, currently walking through Patong and all the massage ladies are pointing out my 711 tank top I'm wearing, kind of feeling like it's a joke shirt I shouldn't be wearing,lol
Wil **********
Noticing the big feet just in time
Psiley *******
no, but if u drive a scooter, stop blinking
Steve **********
Haha...too many
Marijke ********
Thinking you can hop on a bike and drive
Steve *******
Failing to remember that the majority of door jambs in older buildings are not of an accommodative height
Mark *******
In Krabi I was about to get a massage with the girlfriend, so she was talking to the staff etc, we both got undressed and my masseur placed their hands on my feet I turned around and said to the “lady” excuse me but not today thank you, to which my girlfriend was pissing herself laughing. She thought it would be hilarious to have a ladyboy massage me.
Mem *******
I have a 90 day multy entry retirement visa which runs out on may the 13 my flight back to England is on the 13 of may do I need to go to immigration at blue port or can I just fly back to England
Scott *******
@Mem ******
I have never heard of that visa. Are you sure it’s not a multi entry tourist visa? As already stated, you will not have any problem leaving on the day it expires. No harm in visiting immigration for advice several days before.Mem *******
@Scott ******
I have got a retirement visa no multi entryScott *******
@Mem ******
it must surely be a yearly retirement visa? Not 90 days. (You do check in every 90 days) Your initial post says you have a multi entry. Do not let your retirement visa run out or you have to start again. Also if it’s not a multi entry, you must get a re-entry visa before you leave.Mem *******
@Scott ******
yes it isScott *******
@Mem ******
make sure you get advice. You do not want to mess up your retirement visa. You can do your 90 day check in the week before 👍🏻Mem *******
@Scott ******
ok thank uReply to
Mem *******
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Christopher *************
@Mem ******
are you serious lolMem *******
@Christopher ************
yes I am I need adviceChristopher *************
@Mem ******
it runs our the 13th you fly back the 13th and nor renewing it ? Just go homeMem *******
I am renewing it but can I just fly home on the day I'm supposed to go to immigration on that date
Gavin **********
@Mem ******
if your visa runs out on that day, i don’t see a reason that you’d need to go to immigration. You’d only go to immigration if you wanted to extend it or get a new visa. You should be okay to just board your flight and go home.Mem *******
@Gavin *********
thank u so muchReply to
Mem *******
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Bjørn ***************
Not red faced,, yet,,, but currently breaking all the "rules" regarding dating a bar girl 🥴
Aaron *******
@Bjørn **************
Nothing wrong with "dating."Chom ******
@Bjørn **************
is she still working in the bar or is she a former bar girl?Bjørn ***************
@Chom *****
That kind of info probarbly belong in the story to be written 😂Dâu ********
@Bjørn **************
penicillin is cheap and gravity pulls the nut out as long as you take her for a walk before bedding. Some dudes actually like the flavor of the morning shift guys. 🤷♂️Reply to
Dâu ********
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Bjørn ***************
Pava Scotty
I will, but so far its good 😉
The wierd thing is that I do it knowing most of the risks 😂😂
I will, but so far its good 😉
The wierd thing is that I do it knowing most of the risks 😂😂
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Bjørn ***************
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Clinton ********
Obliterating the porcelain after a massive night on the spiciest stuff I could muster with about a cauldron of rum on top.
Nigel **************
Mistaking a ladyboy for a real girl in a bar.
Colin *********
@Nigel *************
was she on her knees just in front of you when you found out? 🤣 🤣 🤣Nigel **************
@Colin ********
similar situation yesReply to
Nigel **************
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Phil *******
@Nigel *************
easily done.Nigel **************
@Phil ******
not nowadays. That was 25 years ago!Reply to
Nigel **************
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Duncanc **********
@Nigel *************
Bigot! They are real girls! 🤭🫣Reply to
Duncanc **********
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Don ***********
12 years ago I was in Buriram market, I saw mangosteen for sale and was a little hungry. The sign said 100bhat for 4. my girlfriend didn’t want any so I thought I can eat four and made the purchase. It seemed to take a long time and then the seller handed me two very large carrier bags and asked for payment.. I explained to the seller I only wanted four, by now quite a lot of market sellers were watching the commotion, my girlfriend stepped in and explained all the market sellers roared with laughter. It was 100 bhat for 4kg. I picked up the bags and promptly headed out of the market.
Melissa *********
@Don **********
I had same issue when I lived in Turkiye for a year and ended up with a kg of spinach to eat for 1 usd.... lots and lots of spinach with every meal that week heheheOliver **********
@Don **********
the horrorReply to
Oliver **********
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Chris ******
Slipping down a flight of stairs after an oil massage , oily feet on wooden stairs is a real problem.
Greg *********
@Chris *****
Thanks, I will know better when I goMark ********
@Chris *****
yes, those 6"" tread stairs got me two days ago. I slipped while wearing socks. The stairs were a slick stone variety. I'll bring my shoes up with me next time.
Ibuprofen and Tiger Balm are reducing the pain.
Mark *******
@Chris *****
yes the same thing happened to my mate had an oil massage, then had a shower back in his hotel, slipped and broke one of his toes.Reply to
Mark *******
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Jacob ********
How much time is allowed to answer the question? Lived here twenty four years am able to speak Thai and have witnessed tourists and expats making some serious screw ups. Made some bad errors over time myself but learned from them quickly so not to repeat them. I will say most of the mistakes ( more scams and dishonesty) not caused by myself always tend to happen in the tourist/expat slums like Hua Hin, or Chiang Mai for example. Learned years ago avoid these places far less stress and far fewer if scams or misunderstandings. I have been traveling for so long everywhere everything is second nature.
Ordy *******************
@Jacob *******
You should see a psychiatrist.Colin *********
@Jacob *******
while calling them"tourist/expat slums might be a bit harsh, I think that I get where you're coming from when I hear about the number of foreigners that get themselves in trouble in Thailand. When I was there for a holiday & to meet someone I didn't see any foreigners outside of BKK and the ones when at The Grand Palace. The rest of the time, I was in provinces 1.5 to 3 hours north of Bangkok. Being around only Thai people for a few weeks, life seemed so peaceful and happy, even though not able to speak the same language, except through using Google translate. I felt so welcomed. Besides The Grand Palace, Ayutthaya & Lopburi for a couple of days each, I wasn't near any popular tourist areas. No scams, no fears, just peace and a feeling of wanting to stay permanently, which I hope will happen in the not too distant futureJacob ********
@Colin ********
Learning Thai is not that difficult I taught myself. Not a fan of Ayutthaya or Lopburi but they are certainly better than most places I avoid. Yes, the Thais living outside these areas in my opinion tend to be much more friendly and down to Earth than others that live in places like Phuket or Chiang Mai. These places just ooze phoniness and trashy looking.Colin *********
@Jacob *******
my visiting Ayutthaya and Lopburi was because of my interest in photography and to a lesser extent, their history. Fascinating to see and walk among the wild monkeys too. Thanks for mentioning the language; before my visit to Thailand, I had a try at learning some basics, but in the time I had available, it just seemed to hard. I've now got a lot more time, so this is a reminder for me to try again to learn some basics before I get to go back there. Did you use any Apps or anything else to help you learn Thai?Jacob ********
@Colin ********
There are some excellent YouTube channels by Thais that can teach you the basics. I learned most of my Thai by something called immersion just living with the Thais , observing and listening. Perhaps not the easiest way but for myself it was. Besides when I first arrived here in 2001 I had very little desire to be around other foreigners and within days encountered so many obnoxious foreigners their behavior towards the Thais that was a turning point. If you are serious about a country and its culture you are not going to learn much on tours or following others like sheep. *******************************************
Colin *********
@Jacob *******
while Thai language is completely different to English and others, because the characters are different, I'm confident given time, that I can learn the language sufficiently well. When in school (a long time ago... Lol), learning French language seemed to come fairly natural to me, so I'm confident that with time and effort, and also as you said, "immersion" when the opportunity is there, I'll get there."tours"... I hate the thought of being herded around like sheep or cattle, having to such to timetables of others. If and when I go anywhere, it's too my timetable as much as possible. I can't participate, for example, in my photography hobby if I have to go where others say, when they say. I hate crowds too and avoid where possible.
Out of curiosity, I'll look at that YouTube video.
Jacob ********
@Colin ********
I do a great deal of photography myself so can certainly relate.Reply to
Jacob ********
Reply
Xjwhudkwhry ********
@Jacob *******
so, can you now answer the actual question? so far you just diss the other foreigners...actually, i can answer for you: your redface moment is this comment of yours lol.Aaron ********
@Jacob *******
I’ve been been here since 97. Hua Hin is not a slum —-You would have to have no common sense whatsoever to get scammed, especially if you had lived here for as long as you claim to have.Jacob ********
@Aaron *******
Did not say I was scammed. Attempted more than a few times. Hua Hin was paradise in 1997 as was most of Thailand. Hua Hin is a pit so many superior places in the south to live. You should know that! Don,t get out much?Steve **********
@Jacob *******
I hope the statement " don't get out much " was in ref: to you.No place for negative farang on this, or any site !
Jacob ********
@Steve *********
Not negative just the opinion of myself and other like minded expats.Rich *********
@Jacob *******
You must be fun at parties! 🎈Steve **********
@Jacob *******
good luck and good byeReply to
Steve **********
Reply
Karen *************
@Jacob *******
wow harsh, calling them ex-pat slums, hardly slums at all from what I have seen!Steve **********
@Karen ************
I live in one of those ( as you call slums) love it !Oh!, where do you call home ?
Jacob ********
@Karen ************
Get off the Pad Thai Highway and see how the Thais really live.Karen *************
@Jacob *******
some want to mix with other ex-pats and just want the weather, lifestyle of Thailand.Jacob ********
I understand that and and glad places like this exist. Just saying a completely different vibe compared to where there are no foreigners for miles around.
Reply to
Jacob ********
Reply
Steve **********
@Jacob *******
so, you're barred from Hua Hin and Chiangmai, ehAny other slums accept you ?
Strange...only called 'slums' while you're there.
Jacob ********
@Steve *********
I don,t live there and rarely if ever visit. Compared to locations there are no foreigners , yea .Steve **********
@Jacob *******
where are you not a foreigner ?Jacob ********
@Steve *********
Saying where I travel I am often the only one. Example where I am at the moment. The last foreigner I remember seeing was in Bangkok about March 1st.Steve **********
@Jacob *******
you were the ONLY foreigner on Bkk on March 1.Oh ! I get it : the only one you ' remember' !
Do you have a caregivers?
Jacob ********
@Steve *********
The last foreigners I saw were at the Bangkok train station. None on my train , none afterwards on my bus and none where I am at currently since then. 99.*****
% of most foreigners here tend to travel in herds. Ask any foreigner at the Bangkok train station for example where they are going it always tends to be the same places. Just human nature I guess safety in numbers?Reply to
Jacob ********
Reply
Michael ********
Wish i said yes to buying 18 rai of beachfront land on Koh Yao Noi for
*****
0/ baht To be fair didnt have money thenJohn *******
Pete **********
Anyone saying lady boy mistakes? 😆 🤣 😂 yeah sure it was a mistake. 😆 🤣 😂
Pete **********
@Michael *******
what is more embarrassing would have been if you actually thought you could buy land and went through with it. If you had that would be a way more embarrassing story to tell.Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERI know of it having happened !
Michael ********
@Pete *********
i know rules and regulations very well thank youReply to
Michael ********
Reply
Declan **********
@Michael *******
would have been scammed as foreigners can't own land. Only Thais and naturalised citizens.Joe ********
@Michael *******
probably a scam, you probably had a lucky escape and didn't lose your money.Dave **********
@Joe *******
lol some of us are married and I did so in 1974! I know some will play the what if game of divorce however the fact is that did not happen and we knew that from day one.
Joe ********
@Dave *********
, so you got married in 1974, what has that got to do with this post?Dave **********
Joe Hewett lol I married a Thai and live in Thailand
Joe ********
@Dave *********
yes you and thousands of others, including myself, have married thai girls without any problems, how is that relevant to this post, the post is about Michael not having *****
0 thb to buy beachfront land but farangs aren't allowed in Thailand and probably was a scam, surly you know this!!Dave **********
@Joe *******
lol you have no idea as to what was available at give away prices over the last few decade's, evidently. Glad I did not listen to people like you when we moved back a couple decades ago.Michael ********
@Dave *********
love all the answers these guys been here couple of years and think they know it allJoe ********
@Michael *******
, I'm the only one that's made a comment apart from laughing boy Sperling, if you're referring to me I've been here longer than two years and dont claim to be an expert on all things thai.Dave **********
@Michael *******
yup. I'm on year 23 and look back at what we missed but the wife looks at what we did not miss. I'm old now but life has been good to me and I'm forever grateful.Michael ********
@Dave *********
Yes like your wifes thinking. Yes i been here longer than i thought had pictures of me turn up on a Thailand memories page from 1991 other day 5555Michael ********
@Joe *******
this was 40 years ago and that was what it was worth then. My friend still has the land and he has leased it to a hotel group for quite a bit of money. He does bring it up occasionally he is glad i couldnt buy it.Joe ********
@Michael *******
you didn't say this was 40 years ago otherwise I wouldn't have bothered to comment.Michael ********
@Joe *******
Wasnt quite 40 years ago was 1988 and my friend still has the land, he leases it to a hotel company. He does mention a few times glad i didnt buy it lolDave **********
@Joe *******
he let us know by his comment he didnt have money then! I was in the same situation,Joe ********
@Dave *********
yes he said then but I dont know when he was referring too, I'm not a mind reader.Dave **********
@Joe *******
I understood you didn't and I'm also not a mind reader. Maybe that's because I have been around Thailand for five decades and us old timers had a lot of the same opportunities. There are still great opportunities here.Why****
ORIGINAL POSTEROh, nice one Dave...
You know you've found the right one when the word 'Forever' doesn't seem long enough.
Congratulations!
You know you've found the right one when the word 'Forever' doesn't seem long enough.
Congratulations!
Reply to
Why****
Reply
Zaher **********
@Michael *******
but as a foreigner you can't own a land in Thailand !!Michael ********
@Zaher *********
yes and ways and means around everythingZaher **********
@Michael *******
then those what will get your face red, I guessMichael ********
@Zaher *********
I have land now with my wife and a usufruct aggrement which you obviously know all about. I am on the chanote and if something happened to my wife i would have a year to sell the landReply to
Michael ********
Reply
Moses *********
It’s a great question. Probably several I don’t want to remember. But one that comes to mind is wearing a tank top to immigration office when applying for extension. I knew better but forgot
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERMost ppl don't know that you can be arrested for not wearing a shirt whilst driving a vehicle in Thailand
Aaron ********
@Why****
i’ve been here since the 90s —that would never happenSue **********
@Why****
And why aren‘t they arrested at the checkpoints?Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERIt is usually met with a warning
Reply to
Why****
Reply
Duncanc **********
@Moses ********
Didn’t need the immigration office part. Just the tank top 🤭Reply to
Jacob ********
Reply
Jacob ********
@Moses ********
Sloppy looking foreigners is far to common here. Embarrassed to be around many this includes women. Dumpster diving for a wardrobe does not leave a good impression on the locals.Moses *********
Jacob ********
@Moses ********
Relaxing is one thing being out in public in a foreign country like Thailand is another. Seen numerous dress code signs at immigration, border crossings, temples and government offices. 99.999% tend to ignore them.Aaron ********
@Jacob *******
oh bullshit — 28 years ago people cared, but now they don’t give a shit.Jacob ********
@Aaron *******
So that makes it ok? Have you been reading the news lately?Moses *********
Jacob ********
@Moses ********
Dress for success.Moses *********
@Jacob *******
I ‘dress down’ and I am the most successful and happy person I know with complete freedomJacob ********
@Moses ********
I have a collection somewhere of over a hundred freaky photos I have taken either myself , from Thai newspapers, websites, and tv. More than just a few walking down main street naked. One morning not long ago in my village a foreigner in only his underpants. Always have my camera ready for the freak show.Moses *********
Jacob ********
@Moses ********
That is a great idea. Maybe Thai Immigration at the airports can hand them out.Reply to
Jacob ********
Reply
Larry ******
If you rent or buy an older motorbike, make sure the kickstand is up before you start cruising.
Steve **********
@Larry *****
If I had read this an hour ago, wouldn't be in Emerg Room now.Steve **********
@Larry *****
just 1st thing came into mind when i read it....I'm fineLarry ******
@Steve *********
Hope you're joking. Did make me wreck though.Reply to
Larry ******
Reply
Nigel *********
Pig Farmer
Nigel ****
Blocked
Ben **********
The Adams apple and large hands. Fortunately I caught on early before I saw the rest.
Qas ******
@Ben *********
I was a victim :( @Dave ****
witnessed it allDave *****
@Qas *****
I didn't see you fighting to get away 😆Reply to
Dave *****
Reply
Steve *******
@Ben *********
DittoReply to
Steve *******
Reply
Tore *********
Didn't actually have any (That i know of lol) A bit of basic research and common sense is all you need really.
Kunal ********
Sme Here Bro👍🏻
Jacob ********
@Tore ********
Common sense is seriously lacking these days.Tore *********
@Jacob *******
Indeed, its getting absurd. or is it that social media is just making it more visible?Jacob ********
@Tore ********
No social media is the problem that has created it. Here is just one example. Just last week during Songkran a foreigner dropped his water gun in a dirty polluted canal in Bangkok and decided to jump in now dead. Or watching a foreigner lean out of a train as far as possible in the very same location another foreigner only a week before fell out of the train. I warned the idiot who did not listen. I see stunts like this all the time. One reason I avoid most foreigners here I get embarrassed being anywhere near them.Reply to
Jacob ********
Reply
Amanda ********
17 bites on my lower legs and ankles alone within the first 24 hours.......buy anti mosquito spray.
John *********
@Amanda *******
I hardly get bitesTony *********
@Amanda *******
buy ladyboy repellantSean ****
@Amanda *******
I think that you got off lightly to be fairPaul *****
@Amanda *******
I’ve been here over 50 days and cover myself head to toe in bug spray and still get bit everyday. Also, I’m accepting applications from people who get bit more than I do, to hangout during dawn and dusk 😂
Rick *********
@Amanda *******
I took my mate for his 1st visit and this was his leg in Bangkok after 1 day 😂Tong *****
@Rick ********
I've always been bitten by mosquito's here and elsewhere. This was very similar to my reaction when I lived in Bangkok but now in Pattaya just an itchy red spot.Reply to
Rick *********
Reply
Todd **********
@Rick ********
ouchTodd **********
@Rick ********
What is all that??Rick *********
@Todd *********
reaction to mosquito bites 🤮Wayne ********
@Todd *********
looks more like blisters from burns but probably an allergic reaction to mosquito bites or somethingReply to
Wayne ********
Reply
Why****
ORIGINAL POSTERIt is only when a mosquito lands on your b@lls that you realise there is a way to solve problems without using violence
Colin *********
@Why****
come visit me and my local mosquito brigade and we'll test out whether violence can be avoided 🤣🤣🤣Reply to
Colin *********
Reply
Iain ******
@Amanda *******
jees .. juicy bloodIain ******
@Amanda *******
its strange how some people get affected more than others .. i hardly get any bites at all .. maybe they can detect my high cholesterol 🤣Mark *******
@Iain *****
so true though, I’m one of those people that gets welts whenever they bite me, one of my work colleagues brought a tennis racket shaped mosquito zapper, what an amazing invention I’ve ordered two for myself because I’m a sadistic person and love the popping sound 😂😂😂😂 not to mention the smell of burnt mosquitos.Keith ******
@Iain *****
a doctor told me they can smell sugar in the blood 🤷♂️Colin *********
@Keith *****
I heard or read somewhere quite a long time ago that mosquitos are attracted to 'sweet' blood. It kind of makes sense to me, because I've always had a 'sweet tooth' and they seem to love meKeith ******
@Colin ********
I also think it has something to do with diabetes or pre-diabetesColin *********
@Keith *****
perhaps, but I'm not diabeticKeith ******
@Colin ********
That’s ok there is always the odd one out 🤣🤣Reply to
Keith ******
Reply
Geoff ************
@Iain *****
they suggest the carbon dioxide acts like a longer distance beacon,(and the levels can vary person to person) like a lighthouse, and this draws them towards you then things like body odorous etc guide them closer like after the lighthouse alerts them they then see a sand beach, to land, or rocks so look for a better target.Chris ****
@Iain *****
it’s based a lot on blood type. I’m O+ and they like me.Ashley **********
@Chris ***
I came here to say the same thing! It has to do with blood type! I get bitten by mosquitos, but the best repellent I have found, is staying close to my husband. 😂 Given the choice of the two of us, they much prefer him! 🤣Darlene *********
@Chris ***
I am O- and they love my blood😡😡😡Amanda ********
@Chris ***
I'm A+, obviously another tasty treat.Camille *******
@Amanda *******
I’m also A+ but rarely get bitten. My bestie is a different blood type and gets eaten alive. 🤷🏼♀️Reply to
Camille *******
Reply
Kalli ***********
@Iain *****
I have seen mosquitoes suck blood out of the ”unbitten”. Many times. Some people simply get zero reaaction from the bites. They just don’t feel it. And they think they don’t get bitten. My niece is like that. She lives by a swamp in Northern Queensland and has no flyscreens in her windows. 😉Iain ******
@Kalli **********
I may have a t shirt printed with The UnbittenIain ******
@Kalli **********
maybe thats the case .. I don't know whether I should think myself lucky or be offended by not being good enough for a mosquito 🤣
Kalli ***********
@Iain *****
Don’t worry. These guys ain’t got no class to themselves. 😉Reply to
Kalli ***********
Reply
Steve *******
@Iain *****
there’s a number of studies that show mozzies are more attracted to some than others. Perfumes and colognes also attract them. Making marriage an excellent investment for a male.JoJo ******************
@Steve ******
blood typesReply to
JoJo ******************
Reply
Bjørn ***************
@Iain *****
I wish this was the case 😂Jacob ********
@Iain *****
Rarely if ever get bitten here by anything while others get covered in bites. No idea why.Iain ******
David *******
@Jacob *******
It’s something related to body odour you give offReply to
David *******
Reply
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