Bangkok Street Wise

Bangkok is like most large cities and being a tourist destination with over 10 million visitors a year, does attracts it share of petty criminals and con artists. Nonetheless Bangkok is still safer for visitors than many large cities in this world.

Pickpockets and petty theft are the main concerns - especially in open air markets and pubs. To reduce your risk use plain common sense and take the same basic precautions you would if you were visiting any big city. Keep a tight grip on your purse or camera, never leave any bags (whether valuable or not) unattended at the pool or when going to a buffet in a restaurant, use the hotel safety deposit box, don't walk around in unfamiliar areas - especially at night - and don't count money in the open.

Also men shouldn't carry their wallet in their back pocket (inside front pocket or money belt would be safer). Women should carry their pocketbook in front of strapped across the shoulder. Jot down your credit card, passport information (number, expiration date etc.) and traveler cheque information and keep it separate from the originals. Lastly be weary of overly helpful strangers and never bring a stranger (prostitute) to your hotel room (you'd think that last one would go without saying but you'd be wrong).