Things you should know before traveling to Thailand

Millions of people flock to Thailand each year, and the number of annual visitors is continuing to grow. Having a basic knowledge of what to expect before you arrive in the Kingdom will be helpful both for you and for the local people you meet along the way. Here are things to know before you arrive.

Avoid animal tourism

Getting up close and personal with some of Thailand’s most exotic animals has become a must-do activity on many tourists’ itineraries. Elephant trekking, tiger temples, and photo ops with monkeys are a few activities you may come across while visiting the country. If one of these attractions is on your bucket list, we suggest crossing it out. Many travelers are unaware of how these animals are mistreated and neglected. Before arriving in Thailand, make sure you do some thorough research into the ethical ways you can interact with the native wildlife. If you’re dying to see elephants, see elephants! Just do so responsibly.

There are a lot of soi dogs

There are about 300,000 strays roaming the streets of Thailand’s capital city alone. While the exact number of soi dogs (street dogs) is unclear, one thing remains certain: you’re going to run into at least a handful of them while visiting Thailand. Lesions, fleas, rashes: these are just some of the conditions that street dogs are suffering from. Caring locals provide food and water for these animals, but many are still neglected. Help out when you can, but also be vigilant.

Do not feed the monkeys

You’ll come across plenty of monkey-filled beaches in Thailand. These animals are cute, clever, and are definitely cool to see up close. That does not mean you should feed them. Feeding the monkeys means they become less able to find food on their own, making them vulnerable in the wild. It also means that they’ll associate people with food. It’s not uncommon to see monkeys steal bags, clothing, and more from tourists in hopes of finding food. These monkeys become less cute when they are tearing your purse apart. Remember these are wild animals. Monkeys bite, and unless you had your rabies shot and there’s a hospital nearby, an enjoyable experience could quickly turn into something very dangerous.

Bargain responsibly

Bartering in Thailand can be fun. There are few places in the Western world that allow you to exchange numbers back and forth with a merchant until you both agree on a price. That being said, there is always a time and a place to fight for a discount. If you’re visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market, barter away! If something doesn’t have a visible price tag, you should definitely suggest a merchant go lower for an item than what they originally said. If you’re blatantly making a merchant uncomfortable or bartering is no longer a friendly banter, move onto the next shop. Don’t be the tourist fighting over a single dollar.

Read more: All you need to know about Ayutthaya, Thailand

Invest in bug spray

One too many trips to Thailand have been cut short by an unfortunate encounter with one too many bug bites. Whether you are left confined to your hotel room because the itching is simply unbearable, or worse, you contract a virus, you’ll certainly regret being so brazen. Bug spray should replace your perfume or cologne while in Thailand. Be sure to have a travel-size spray with you at all times. You never know when a bloodthirsty mosquito is going to be out for dinner.

Source The Culture Trip

Come to Singapore and visit its cutest cat cafes

There’s no better activity for feline lovers than cuddling up with a warm kitty while sipping a cuppa – without the responsibilities of being a full-time cat owner. Here are the cat cafes in Singapore for you to check out.

Meomi Cat Cafe

Surrounded by bar restaurants and cafes, the Meomi Cat Cafe is a hidden oasis for these bunch of furry creatures. Located along North Bridge Road, the spacious play area features plenty of toys for the cats, including wall steps and a catwalk. Though the food and drink menu is limited, it really makes the cats the star of the show!

Opening Hours: 11AM-10PM
Address: 668 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188801 (nearest MRT: Bugis)
Price: $13 for adults, $7 for children
Age Restrictions: Children have to be at least 6-years-old

The Cat Cafe

A stone’s throw away is The Cat Cafe, located above the jam-packed Bugis Street. This pet cafe comprises of 15 ex-stray or adopted cats, rescued by Kitty Kat Haven, a non-profit cat-rescue centre. Their entry fee is $16 with a complimentary soft drink, which can be topped up and upgraded to a coffee or tea.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10AM-10PM, Monday 3PM-10PM
Address: 241B Victoria Street, Singapore 188030 (nearest MRT: Bugis)
Price: $16/entry for all
Age Restrictions: Children have to be at least 6-years-old, children below 12 to be accompanied by an adult

Neko no Niwa

Translated as “cat garden” from Japanese, Neko no Niwa is Singapore’s very first cat cafe opened in 2013! The 13 friendly kittens – some of whom are siblings – were adopted in the same year, and now roam freely around the expansive floor area. It’s recommended to call in advance to place a reservation for your visit as this cat cafe does get crowded especially over the weekends!

Opening Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11AM-10PM, Saturday, Sunday 10AM-10PM
Address: 54A Boat Quay (Level 2), Singapore 049843 (nearest MRT: Raffles Place / Clarke Quay)
Price: First hour – $12, Every subsequent half hour – $5, 3-hour pass – $24, Whole day pass – $32. Drinks and desserts start from $2

See more: Visit the best animal cafes in Tokyo, Japan

Source: Internet