Places to Visit
We know all ISTS Symposium attendees have a deep concern for the care of both sea and land animals. Therefore, we encourage attendees to seek out experiences that are not harmful to animals. When searching for ethical wildlife sanctuaries, we encourage participants of ISTS to take the time to research credible organizations and read reviews online before committing your tourist dollars.
| Do cover up in Temples | Don't disrespect the Buddha symbol |
| Do respect monks | Don't touch people's heads |
| Do smile! | Don't point |
| Do take off your shoes when entering temples and homes | Don't collect coral fragments or shells |
| Do be mindful of taking photos in religious spaces and temples | Don't purchase live animals |
| Do your research on animal preserves and eco-friendly tourism | Don't ride elephants |
| Do return the "wai" greeting (putting your hands together like you’re praying and returning a greeting of “sawadii ka/kap”). If you are a female, you say “ka,” if you are a male, you say “kap” | Don't be overly affectionate with your significant other in public |
| Do enjoy Thai massages, but clarify your personal boundaries | Don't prop your feet on tables or high up |
| Do enjoy the friendly hospitality of the Thai people | Don’t bad mouth or disrespect the Thai Royalty |
| Do ensure you have checked all your belongings for materials, such as weapons, needles, narcotics, etc. that are illegal to bring into Thailand | Don’t smoke in enclosed public spaces |
| Do be open to the challenge of bargaining when taking taxis or visiting markets | Don’t step over someone’s legs |
Have a look below for some ideas of places to visit around Pattaya and Bangkok before or after ISTS42. There are also a few videos that might give you some ideas.
