Put the chopsticks down. Thais use forks and spoons except when they're eating Chinese meals.
Start with the Thai staples at mealtime, if you are unsure of what to order. Order tom yam king, which is lemongrass soup and pawn with mushrooms. Then advance to pad Thai, also known as fried noodles with tofu, eggs, vegetables and peanuts.
Order your dishes "mai phet," not spicy. Know what to expect because the food can get very spicy. Expect spicy food if "phet."
Skip the fish sauce called "nam pla" if you are on a low-sodium diet. Nam pla is a commonly used salt substitute.
Pay attention while driving. Remember that traffic laws are commonly ignored. Drivers clear the road for larger vehicles. Bicyclists often fail to look around them. Motorcyclists drive as if they are impervious of danger.
Women should wear a scarf in the temple and dress modestly. Women who are dressed inappropriately may not be allowed to enter the temple.
Take off your shoes before going into the temple.
Carry a small package of tissues or toilet paper. Older buildings and rural areas where you might find squat toilets rarely provide toilet paper. A bucket is often placed under a tap next to the toilet. The common practice is to fill the bucket with water and pour the water into the toilet to flush it manually. Western-style toilets are normally available in the main tourist areas. They are common in hotels.
