How to Stay Safe on the Paradise Thai Islands – Safety guidelines for a trouble-free holiday

Due to a few disturbing incidents reported a few years ago, some travellers feel apprehensive about the idea of travelling to Thai islands. But the good news is that they were a one-time thing. However, travellers need to understand that travelling anywhere in the world involves a degree of risk and following safety precautions is the only way to minimise that risk. Here are a few things you need to know about travelling to Thai islands and staying safe.

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1. Must know facts

The annual rate of murders in Thailand is higher than that of other countries. Driving here is not safe, and safety guidelines like wearing a seatbelt and wearing a crash helmet are not followed here. While it is undoubtedly fun, the Full Moon Party invites troublemakers from everywhere in the world. So, if you are planning to go to the party, make sure you stick with a group of friends.

2. Choose the right kind of accommodation

Nothing is easier than finding a resort in Koh Phangan, but what's challenging is finding one with a safe location. With the likes of Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas available to you, this shouldn't be too difficult, but do a thorough search and find one that's safe – budget guesthouses are really not the way to maximise your safety on the islands.

3. Don't offend a Thai

Thais are generally nice people, but you need to make sure you don't offend them. For example, don't talk about the king or their cultural beliefs. Thai people love their king, and they won't tolerate any disrespectful banter from a foreigner.

4. Don't get involved in fights

If you encounter a fight between two Thai people, don't ever interfere, it'll never yield a good outcome; if anything, you'll get into trouble. These fights can escalate to the point where they use broken glass and knives to fend off the other person. If you encounter a fight, get out of the place as fast as you can.

5. Follow the local dress code

The Thai attitude towards rape is not very good. Victim blaming is a thing here, and if you are a woman, you are very much likely to be blamed for whatever's happened. Most Thai people believe rape victims have brought it upon themselves by behaving inappropriately. These ideas and beliefs have long been ingrained in the collective Thai mind, and there's no altering them. The smart thing to do is wear clothes that cover your arms, shoulders and legs. If you are getting unwanted attention from someone, walk away and call and inform someone right away.

6. Try not to get involved with local men

You might have heard of female tourists conducting successful relationships with local men, but it's rare. They know you come from a different background, and they know you are open-minded and outgoing. This gives some people the wrong idea that they can do whatever they want with you. Visit the islands and enjoy the beauty of the place but remember that it's all you should do here. If you are visiting with friends, hang out with them; being overly friendly with locals is never a good idea.

7. Be careful when at the bars

When you are at a bar, despite your gender, you need to be extremely careful. Do not accept drinks from strangers, and do not leave your drink unattended. Always be alert and do not get too drunk – you can have all the fun you want when you are inside the resort. There may be some pubs and bars that are safe, but most local bars aren't safe for drunk tourists.