While Thailand has plenty to offer in the way of tranquil beaches and rich culture, there’s a vibrant nightlife beckoning for you to go and let your hair down. Full Moon parties on the beach are heavily frequented by tourists and locals alike, and the bustling cities come alive at night with an atmosphere that is incomparable to anywhere else in the world.
Although it is likely to be one of the most unforgettable experiences you’ll ever have, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before partying the night away Thai style. Here are some useful tips to keep you safe and happy whilst having the time of your life.
Know the best places to go
Photo Credit: Full Moon Party by Roberta Trombetta (CC BY-NC 2.0)
It makes sense the more popular the location, the safer it’s going to be. Koh Phangan is renowned for its Full Moon parties, where around 30,000 revelers head to the island’s beaches to dance, drink and even jump ropes of fire, according to 1Cover. No, really! It’s an incredible atmosphere like no other, and without a doubt the biggest celebration you can be a part of in Thailand.
Koh Phangan’s Full Moon parties have been going on for over 30 years now meaning they’re reliable as well as a lot of fun. You can either lose yourself in a beachside bar, dance with the masses on the shore or simply watch some of the entertainment on offer until the sun rises the next morning.
Head to the beach of Haad Rin for the very best experience, the busiest part of the island that offers a lot of fun. However, if you’re something a little less intense, cities such as Bangkok and Phuket offer a lively scene full of great bars and clubs for you to enjoy. You could spend the night dancing to a DJ set in one of the many nightclubs or simply take in the views from a luxurious rooftop bar – the choice is yours.
Stay vigilant and watch those around you
Unfortunately, tourists are often the targets of petty theft in Thailand. As this post explains, things like bag-snatching and robbery are prevalent, and although it’s not something that should be at the forefront of your mind whilst you’re enjoying yourself, it is definitely worth it to be constantly aware.
Consider wearing a cross body bag instead of a handbag or a clutch, as it will be harder to grab from your person. Keep your belongings secure and concealed when you’re not using them, so as not to attract the attention of any potential thieves.
If you’re a woman or in the company of a woman, be sure to stay safe and vigilant. Assault and drink spiking is absolutely a possibility when partying in Thailand – but it also is at home, meaning you shouldn’t worry too much. Just don’t get too drunk, and always know where you are and what is going on. Risking blacking out in an unfamiliar location is not a good idea, and although it may be easy to get carried away when you’re having such an exciting night, it’s important to be able to function normally at the same time.
Don’t do anything silly
Photo Credit: Full Moon Party in Thailand by mathieu314 (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Wherever you are in the world, you’ll have to keep your wits about you when partying. When you’re in a foreign country, though, this is even truer. Thailand is generally a safe country you shouldn’t feel too threatened or intimidated by, but there are still things you shouldn’t do in order to keep enjoying yourself.
Trust your instincts when you feel like something shouldn’t be done, such as swimming in the currents on the beach – they may be a lot stronger than you anticipate, and you won’t be easily noticeable amidst thousands of energetic partygoers.
Don’t be tempted by any illicit substances such as drugs or suspicious drinks. The laws on drugs in Thailand are a lot more serious than you may be used to, and, as these stories show, exceptions won’t be made for tourists. Being caught either with drugs in your possession or being under the influence could lead to a punishment as severe as the death penalty. It isn’t worth it, wouldn’t you agree? Don’t be tempted or peer-pressured into doing something you aren’t comfortable with, as it’s likely to not end well. Also, don’t enter any establishments that look to be suspicious or unsafe.
It’s worth doing a search online to find the hotspots that are frequented in your location, so as not to stumble upon a bar or club that is a bit risky. And perhaps give playing with fire a miss if you’re tempted at a Full Moon party.
Stay hydrated and comfortable
Although water probably won’t be your preferred drink of choice, it’s important you’re still drinking it throughout your night so you minimize the risk of passing out as well as having a nasty hangover. It’ll keep your energy levels high so you can keep on going, and will likely replenish your bodily fluids considering how hot it’s likely to be.
Sure, enjoy yourself responsibly with alcohol, but keep the water intake high alongside it so stay happy and comfortable during the night. Also, make sure you’ve got some money for the toilet – you might have to pay if you want to relieve yourself privately, and so keep a small amount of change with you in the case of any eventuality.
Enjoy yourself while partying in Thailand
All in all, you shouldn’t be too worried about partying the night away in Thailand. There’s an incredible range of places to spend your evenings (and perhaps mornings) throughout the country, whether it be in a huge club or on the open beach.
Although there are a few precautions you need to take before heading out at night, it’s really no different to anywhere else in the world. What’s important to remember is you’ll be hard done by finding a more exciting, vibrant and fun nightlife scene in the world than what’s on offer in Thailand.
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Feature Photo credit: Photo by Jeremy Eades (CC BY-SA 2.0)
