If you follow some basic rules, you will stay safe and healthy in Pattaya. The city is reasonably safe, but like everywhere can turn ugly if you put yourself in a bad situation.

Saying safe and stay out of trouble in Pattaya

This warning was discussed in a previous section, but it is worth repeating.

You do not want to get involved in a heated argument with a Thai or between two arguing Thais. Also, don’t get involved in a dispute between a Thai and other farangs. If you get in this situation, you could get into much trouble as Thais nearby will take the Thais side regardless of the problem. The results can be very unpredictable.

It is not a good idea to show extravagant wealth in Thailand. Remember that our concept of extravagant wealth differs from the Thai view. Don’t flash a lot of cash around, and try not to display expensive jewellery or camera equipment, for example.

Keeping a level head will keep you out of trouble in Thailand. Also, try not to get too drunk until you know where you need to avoid it. If you find yourself in a situation with a Thai, do a lot of smiling and do your best to back out of it. You’ll find that the Thias use smiling as a way to avoid, or even reverse, a bad situation.

Condoms

It may be evident that condoms are a must, but many guys still do not use them, at least occasionally. Some guys proudly state that they rarely or never use them. Most guys who don’t use them often do so because of excessive alcohol consumption. Perhaps another reason to limit your consumption!

Asian condoms are a little smaller than what you will get at home. Also, the quality may not be quite as good. For these reasons, it is best to bring your own from home. Also, it is a good idea to have some personal lubricant available.

If you run out of condoms or neglect to bring them, larger-sized condoms are available. Look for Durex Comfort condoms or a similar product from another brand. You are looking for a condom that has 56mm on the box, as shown right. As shown, ‘mm’ does not appear in English, but you are looking for the number 56 on the box.

Immunisations

Once you have decided that Pattaya is for you, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor about immunisations. It is essential to do this early as some immunisations must be done over time.

You should consider one immunisation that takes some time for hepatitis A and B. You can get hepatitis A from eating infected food and hepatitis B from contaminated bodily fluids. No immunisation is known for hepatitis C, which like hepatitis B, can be contracted during unprotected sex.

You may need to update other immunisations, but your doctor is best to advise you on this. If you have a good relationship with your doctor, you should inform them of what you plan to do while you are in Thailand.

Diarrhoea

Almost all the food you will get in Thailand will cause no problems. However, it is not without risk. What you are prepared to eat will depend on how adventurous you are.

Getting diarrhoea is a risk in Thailand, and you must be prepared for it. Most people experience mild cases of diarrhoea, but few suffer greatly. It is a good idea to keep a supply of Imodium in your room while you are there. It is easily obtainable from any pharmacy in Pattaya.