Phi Phi islands travel info

Travellers Tips

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

1. 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.
2. 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!
3. 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.
4. 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....

1. 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.
2. The Thai Royal family is treated with great respect, so do not make any untoward or rude remarks.
3. 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.