SHOPPING
Pattaya offers the visitor a wide variety of shopping facilities ranging from traditional Thai markets to ultra-modern multi-storeyed shopping plazas. Shops vary in their opening times, but many stay open until 7 or 8.00pm in the evening during the week and remain open on Sundays. While bargaining is inappropriate in most shops, it is an essential part of shopping in markets and at pavement stalls, ideally, you should try to get some idea of what a reasonable price is first before engaging or attempting to haggle and then negotiations should be carried out in good-humoured manner.
BEAUTY SALONS AND HAIRDRESSERS
Appearance is very important in Thailand and hairdressers, salons and barbers catering to a wide variety of income levels are plentiful. The most sophisticated salons and hairdressers in Pattaya are similar to those in the West; even more modest premises usually offer a full range of beauty care and treatments, including head massages. It is generally not necesssary to always make an appointment.
HEALTH
In the event of a possible serious injury or illness, medical expenses can prove to be costly, so medical insurance is rather essential. Appointments to see a doctor at a private hospital or clinic in Pattaya can be made at short notice.
Most doctors will be able to speak good English, as they will have spent a number of years training in America.
For small medical problems it is possible to seek advice and purchase the appropriate medicines from a chemist without a prescription.
CROSS-CULTURAL NOTES
Visitors and tourists to Pattaya and Thailand in general, are always impressed by the warmth, friendliness and tolerance of the Thai people.
Nevertheless, there are certain important do's and don'ts which the visitor should observe and be aware of, so not to cause offence.
THE THAI MONARCHY
The monarchy is highly revered in Thailand. Criticism of the institution or members of the royal family, whether real or imagined, is deeply offensive to most Thais and could lead to serious problems. Few Thais would wish to seriously discuss anything to do with the monarchy with foreign visitors, and these feelings should be respected at all times. |
