What are some tips, advice, and suggestions for foreign tourists?

Learn a few Thai phrases like "khob khun" (thank you) and "kaw thot" (sorry), locals genuinely appreciate the effort even if your tones are off. For getting around, the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are way faster than taxis during rush hour, which is basically 7-9am and 4-7pm daily. Street food is excellent and safe, just pick stalls with a steady stream of Thai customers and avoid the ones with pre-cooked food sitting out.

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get a rabbit card for the bts, saves u from queuing for tickets every time which can be a nightmare at busy stations like siam or asok. also, download grab for taxis but don't let them overcharge u, check the meter price vs the app price first. temples are beautiful but wear long pants and cover shoulders, they'll make u rent a sarong at the entrance if u forget and it's usually overpriced

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Dress for the heat and humidity, seriously, you'll sweat through everything within minutes of stepping outside. And always carry toilet paper or tissues, most public restrooms don't have any.

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Krua Dok Mai Kao is solid but I've always found their som tam a bit tame on the pla ra. If you want the real funky version, try the shophouse spots along Soi Udomsuk 26, near the night market end. They pound it fresh with fermented fish that'll clear your sinuses, and it's like 60 baht. Different style from the On Nut places, more Lao-leaning.

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for som tam specifically i'd say the Isaan spots in Chatuchak are underrated, weekdays only though since the weekend crowd ruins the vibe. there's a stall near gate 2 that does tam pa with fermented bamboo shoots, super sour and funky, not something you see much in On Nut. if you're already heading north for Or Tor Kor anyway its worth the detour.

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honestly the som tam at Krua Dok Mai Kao is good but what got me hooked is their nam prik pla raa dip with the raw veggies, that funk hits way harder than the papaya does. think most people sleep on it cuz they just order the som tam and gai yang. also pro tip, go before noon on weekdays, after that teh pla ra gets milder cuz they batch it for the lunch rush

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