Please see attached info I gave to another terbite:
Hi there,
I saw your post about your offer to help.
I've been wanting to go for the longest time, but was never able to due to schedule etc..., but I've made up my mind to go this year or early next year. If you could answer the following questions I would greatly appreciate it
1. When is the best time to go? (time of year) Best time weather wise is Oct. thru March. Some places will charge more as this is the High Season.
2. Where should I stay? I don't want to spend a lot or go in some place fancy, but something decent would be good. Mostly it depends how long you are staying. I am currently renting a room in a hotel for 5500 Baht/mo. Nothing fancy, but it is clean, private bath, A/C, Cable TV, Fridge, Dresser, King Bed, what you would find in your average room, it is secure and has a safe at the front desk. I would consider it 2 Star and I am in a great location.
3. What should I watch out for? Generally it is very safe, I hve no problem walking around by myself at night, just stay in travelled areas. Beware the very rare pick pocket. I only carry the money I will need for the night on me, never more than 50 bucks. Use common sense and all is fine, a lot of tourist everywhere. When travelling alwasys carry cash, valuables, etc on your person.
4. What should I visit? This depends on your taste, if you like temples,golf, Floating Market, Bridge on the River Kwai, it is all availble, there are tourist places everywhere that offer and endless supply of tours all over the country country, all are very reasonable. Fishing is an option, I went scuba diving for a day (first time in my life) for about a 120 bucks. Includes p/u at hotel, drop off, food, all equipmet, etc.
5. Is it worth it to hire a girl to take me around/negotiate for me etc...
I met a guy from Belgium last week who hired a girl for 10 Days to be with him. it cost him 12,000 Baht, about 400 bucks. He would also have to feed her and they expect you to buy them something. But they work as an interperter and can show you around, I would suggest getting to know her first as you can tire of her very fast.
Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated it
Let me know when you a planning a trip and for how long and I will offer more suggestions.
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