Rayong Province Thailand Travel Guide
Vaccinations and Prevention: Prepare your body for journey by checking recommended vaccinations. No compulsory shots for entry to Thailand unless arriving from a Yellow Fever risk country. Recommended: Routine Vaccinations, Hepatitis A (all travelers), Typhoid (outside major restaurants), Hepatitis B (longer trips/exposure), Rabies (outdoors/animals/remote areas), Japanese Encephalitis (rural areas during transmission season). Monkeys and stray dogs are present on Koh Samet.
Common Health Concerns and Prevention: Traveler's Diarrhea: Consume only bottled water, avoid ice if unsure, eat hot, food that is freshly cooked, wash your hands often. Carry Imodium A-D anti-diarrheal caplets or similar. Mosquito-borne illnesses (A Mosquito-borne tropical disease, Chikungunya): Koh Samet island has no malaria risk, but a mosquito-borne tropical disease is present. Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, especially at dawn and dusk. Put on long-sleeved shirts and pants. Consider a Mosquito net for beds. Sunburn and Sunstroke: UV index high. Use High-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses, stay hydrated, seek shade. Pack Sunscreen lotion SPF 50+. Foot Injuries: Wear Water shoes or open-toed shoes for protection from coral, rocks, or sharp objects.
Comprehensive travel insurance stands highly recommended for all travelers. A suitable policy covers:
Emergency Medical Treatment and Evacuation: Crucial, as serious medical issues may require transfer to mainland hospitals (Rayong, Pattaya, or Bangkok) or even international medical evacuation. Check World Nomads or SafetyWing. Insubuy offers medical and travel-related coverage. Trip Cancellation or Interruption: Protects your investment if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut short your trip. Lost or Stolen Luggage and Personal Belongings: Offers financial protection for your valuables. Personal Liability: Covers you in case you accidentally cause injury or damage to others. Ensure your policy covers activities you plan to do, like snorkeling, diving, or scooter riding, as some policies exclude these without specific add-ons. AirHelp assists with flight compensation.
Koh Samet island is generally safe, but be aware.
Petty theft (bag snatching, unattended items), scooter rental scams (alleged damage disputes), overcharging by songthaew drivers. Violent crime is rare.
Remain aware of belongings. Use hotel safes. Take photos/videos of rental scooters. Agree on songthaew prices beforehand. Exercise caution during nightlife due to the consumption of alcohol. Walk alone less on unlit beaches at night. Travel in groups after dark where feasible.
Gulf of Thailand generally safe from tsunamis.
Tsunamis: Ko Samet (Gulf of Thailand) is not prone to tsunamis from major seismic activity.
Flooding: Heavy downpours in peak rainy season (September-October) cause localized flooding on roads, temporarily impeding travel. Choppy Waters: Strong winds during rainy season make conditions at sea rough, occasionally suspending ferry services or making boat trips uncomfortable/unsafe. Monitor weather forecasts and heed local advice.
Keep these numbers handy.
Police: 191. Tourist Police (English-speaking): 1155. Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 1669. Fire And rescue: 199.
List family/friends contacts. Note your country's embassy or consulate contact details in Bangkok for lost passports or serious emergencies.
Being conscious of local conditions, possessing appropriate insurance, and knowing steps in an emergency are cornerstones of conscientious travel.
Regularly check official government travel advisories for the latest updates on entry requirements and medical recommendations. These materials present the most current information for your individual nationality and travel plans.
Consult your doctor well before travel for recommended shots.
Consume only bottled water and remain vigilant about food hygiene.
Generous use of sunscreen and insect repellent.
Remain alert, especially for petty theft.
Travel coverage with medical coverage is strongly recommended.
