SOME DO's and DON'T's FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS TO THAILAND

When in Thailand it's not always necessary to do as the Thais do, indeed certain customs such as resting on one's haunches or sleeping atop a motorcycle, might present some physical difficulties to the average Western visitor. There is however, a list of things to avoid doing and some you should remember always to do.

Never say anything which might be considered disrespectful of the King or Royal Family. In general, do not make direct criticisms of things not to your liking, you may unwittingly offend your Thai listener.

The head is considered by Thais to be the most noble part of the body, so as a general rule, avoid touching people on the head, and certainly, on a beach for instance, never step over a person's head.

At the other extremity, the feet are considered less than noble, therefore do not point with the foot. When sitting on a chair, it's more polite to literally keep both feet on the ground.

You can point at objects but never point at people. It's considered very rude.

Public displays of affection are strictly taboo. The Tourism Authority of Thailand advises that holding hands is the accepted limit in this regard.

Prolonged staring at another person is also considered to be very rude and risky. A quick smile and a friendly nod are safer and more polite.

Do remember to remove your shoes before entering a Thai house, especially up country where the custom of washing your feet with ladled water and rubbing one foot on the other, may still be in force.

Do dress appropriately which means not wandering around the city dressed for the beach. It is especially important at temples where the correct dress requires females not to wear shorts, slacks or short skirts. Males should also not wear shorts and will be more repected if they were longsleeved shirts.

Finally do remember to emulate that famous Thai smile -- especially on the golf course, even after that 7 on a Par 3!!.

Climate

You won't need a meteorologist to tell you that Thailand's climate is normally hot and humid. It's a tropical country with a typical tropical climate. Understanding the seasonal variations however can help in planning a visit.

Three main seasons provide a distinct, and fairly predictable, set of climatic changes. April and May is when it's really hot. Locals seek the shade more often than normal, airconditioners work overtime, and unwise tourists sizzle in the sun.

From June to October, the rainy season, It's slightly cooler, although still hot by most standards, and it's a lot wetter.

November to December is the season most favoured by tourists, the weather then is still quite hot, but not nearly so humid. In the north though, temperatures can drop to less than 10 degrees at night.

Light, loose fitting, cotton garments are still the best, including cotton socks which some still prefer to going sockless.

Shoes, except for visits to upmarket restaurants and hotels should be casual and comfortable. For more adventurous excursions such as trekking and hill climbing (and golfing!), specialised clothing and footwear, are of course a necessity.

Health

Most health problems can be avoided by a sensible approach to eating, drinking, and literally watching your step. If you are sensitive to hot spicy food, be selective in your choice of local dishes. Ready made desserts and reheated meats are also best avoided.

Never drink, or even gargle in water from the tap. Always use any of the readily available bottled waters.

The sun, even in the rainy season can be deceptively strong. Use a good sunscreen and limit your exposure time.

Malaria poses no threat except in certain areas. If you intend travelling outside the main centres make sure you are adequately protected.

Watch where you walk, particularly in Bangkok where the pedestrian needs to be especially mindful when crossing the road,  even at traffic lights.

Medicines from minor ailments are available at the many drug stores to be found almost everywhere. A high standard of medical treatment for more serious problems can be expected from most of the nationwide modern, and well equipped hospitals.