Flying to Thailand begins with Cheap flights to Bangkok, connection flights to beaches like Phuket, searching cheap shopping spots, lazing at the beaches and coming back home with bag full of new cloths and camera loaded with photos create memories for a life time. But there is a little more to it, being in a foreign country is a good feeling but there always exists a ‘fear of the unknown’. For example, how would she react when you ask her out? Does the culture permit it? Are you allowed to make noise when slurping the noodle soup? Should you cover your head when entering a Vat? Do the monks shake hands? Can you go topless at the beach? Or is it awkward to roam around in shorts? All these questions give you a bad taste in the mouth!

So, today I am writing for the ‘first timers’ in Thailand. The travel tips that will make you feel at home.

1. Much like any other Asian country, respect your elders. Thais have a strong sense of social hierarchy. Here, elders rule so don’t try to pass any comment that can be taken personally. Be very polite and respectful to elders in any case. By “respecting elders” we also mean, be the first to greet them. Let them take seat first. Do not point your feet towards any elder (actually any one).
2. Another thing to remember is that Thais do not like to be touched at their head. It’s like sort of a bad luck to them and also considered disrespectful.
3. A lot of Thais can speak English and a vast majority will understand. So don’t even think of swearing or uttering a bad word in your native language for it may ignite an unpleasant situation.
4. There is a possibility that you will be lured by young and pretty looking girls who will say they are not under aged but if they are, you can get a good time behind bars. So be careful and if you are uncontrollably up to it, than better check the id first.
5. If you are entering a ‘vat’, a temple or tomb you will be required to take off your shoes at the entrance. Also, wearing shorts at eating places, in tombs, or vats etc is considered impolite and you may not be given an entry.
6. There is hardly any beach in Thailand that allows topless. So better check first to avoid heavy fines.
7. Asking a Thai Girl out, does not apply the same ‘American system’ means she won’t be sharing your bill. You will have to pay for both.
8. In food streets and open markets, if you want to find where you can get good soup, listen to the sound of it. Slurping is allowed and favored.
9. For better deals in Flights and accommodations advance reservation is a better option rather than a last minute flight to Thailand..
10. Lastly, monks don’t shake hands but ‘Namaste’ works.

Cheap flights to Thailand not necessarily have to be booked with low cost airlines. At times there are often tremendously discounted or bargain fares available at top airlines including Qatar Airways so better do a comparison before making your flight reservation.