Rayong Province, Thailand
Vaccinations and Prevention: Prepare your body for travel by checking recommended vaccinations. No mandatory vaccinations 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 Ko Samet.
Common Health Concerns and Prevention: Traveler's Diarrhea: Drink only bottled water, avoid ice if unsure, eat hot, freshly cooked food, wash hands frequently. Carry Imodium A-D anti-diarrheal caplets or similar. Mosquito-borne illnesses (Dengue Fever, Chikungunya): Ko Samet has no malaria risk, but dengue fever is present. Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, especially at dawn and dusk. Wear long sleeves and pants. Consider a Mosquito net for beds. Sunburn and Heatstroke: 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 sandals 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.
Ko Samet 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 alcohol consumption. Walk alone less on unlit beaches at night. Travel in groups after dark if possible.
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. Rough Seas: Strong winds during rainy season make sea conditions 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 Department: 199.
List family/friends contacts. Note your country's embassy or consulate contact details in Bangkok for lost passports or serious emergencies.
Being mindful of local conditions, having appropriate insurance, and knowing emergency procedures are cornerstones of responsible travel.
Regularly check official government travel advisories for the latest updates on entry requirements and health recommendations. These resources offer the most current information for your specific nationality and travel plans.
Consult your doctor well before travel for recommended shots.
Drink only bottled water and remain vigilant about food hygiene.
Generous use of sunscreen and insect repellent.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially for petty theft.
Travel insurance with medical coverage is highly suggested.
