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Getting around
Phi Phi has lots of tracks and footpaths but no real roads, so
getting around is easy - walking or go by boat! The local "longtail"
boats are like water taxis and will take you wherever you want
to go and wait for you if required. Prices vary and can be on
a per person basis or whole boat charge depending on your trip
and the number of people. Check with other travellers and always
negotiate with a smile!
Shopping
Most local shops and minimarts are run by local families so they
often stay open around 08.30 and close anytime between 21.00 -23.00.
Most gift shops open 10.00-22.00 and dive shops usually close
at 21.00. Bargain with good humour and you could get some better
prices!
 Banks/Money
The Currency is the Thai Baht (see
currency converter) Denominations are 1,000, 500, 100,
50 and 20 Baht notes. Master card and Visa are well known but
American Express is only accepted in the more expensive hotels
and stores. There is a bank with a currency exchange in Tonsai
Bay, Phi Phi, but no ATM machine. However there are plenty of
ATM's on Phuket island.
Electricity
The same as the rest of Thailand - 2 pin plug with 220 volts.
Adapter are available at most hardware stores and some hotel shops
in Phuket. Buy one before you go to Phi Phi.
Mail
You can use the local post office for postcards and inbound mail,
but if it is something important, it's better to use the main
post offices at Phuket or Krabi.
Cameras/Film
ASA100-ASA400 is available. In Tonsai Bay, a Kodak shop near
the pier does standard developing.
Phones
There are public phones on the island. One is located at the
pier. Most tour agencies will allow you to make both local and
international calls for a small charge.
TV
Satellite TV, CNN and BBC are available around the island. Some
of the bars generally show important sporting events.
Computers
Internet cafes are the most reliable source to check e-mail as
many of the hotels do not have available phone lines for their
customers. The area around the ferry in Tonsai has a number of
Internet cafes.
Health and Medical Facilities
There are no hospitals on Phi Phi so any serious illness should
be treated in Phuket where there are first class international
facilities. There is a local health centre on Phi Phi island in
Tonsai Bay. Please be insured before travelling to Thailand. Check
with your insurance company which hospitals they work with.
Sunburn and Sunstroke are the most common health problems so
take the usual precautions - strong sunblock, wear a hat and drink
plenty of fluids.
Government offices
On Phuket. Open 08.30 and close 17.00. Dress well.
If you overstay your visa or need an extension, you should contact
the Immigration office on Phuket.
Tourist Police
Located near the pier in Tonsai. The tourist police generally
have a person who speaks English.
Phuket International Airport departure tax
500 Baht. Check if your ticket includes airport tax.
Domestic - 30 Baht (Phuket and Krabi Airports) Usually included
in the price of your ticket
Good ideas and Bad ideas
Thai's are very tolerant people, but if you want to make the
most of your visit, you should be aware of some Thai customs and
sensitive areas.
Good ideas
- Always be polite and try not to lose your temper in frustrating
situations. Remember the pace of life is much slower, so adjust
accordingly. Losing your temper is considered a great loss of
control. Be patient and you will be rewarded.
- Dress appropriately. On the islands, especially Phi Phi, the
dress is very informal, but smart-casual is appreciated in the
better quality hotel restaurants. When travelling, especially
on boats, remember, you can get sunburnt very quickly!
- The Wai. Thais do not shake hands, they wai. The hands
are placed together with the palms together in a prayer like way.
Although they will often greet you in this manner, you don't need
to wai a waiter, bell boy or child, but if you're meeting Thais
socially, a wai will be appreciated. Shaking hands in the western
way is also acceptable.
- Tipping It is not necessary to tip a flat 10-15% on everything,
and in the local restaurants for snacks and drinks, it's not expected,
although appreciated if you do.
It's not a good idea to....
- Buddhists believe that the head is sacred and the feet are the
lowest part. Try not to point at objects with your feet, or touch
Thai people's heads.
- The Thai Royal family is treated with great respect, so do not
make any untoward or rude remarks.
- Although you won't be imprisoned for sunbathing nude, Thais
find this offensive to their culture. While topless bathing is
accepted in the tourist areas like Phi Phi, it can attract unwanted
attention. It's tolerated but not welcomed. Some hotels have notices
requesting no G stings or topless bathing.
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