What a fun thread! Thanks so much everyone.

Thanks for the tips, it would be so helpful. I'm leaving LA tomorrow for my Asia trip, my itenerary:
LA-HK-Shenzhen-Macau-BKK-Vietiane-Laung Prabang-Vietiane-BBK-Macau-Zhuhai-SZ-HK-LA
in 15 days, It is aggressive, but a good reason to come back again

Laurie's advice is #1 is the key to understanding and falling in love with thailand.

for clothing "tips" i have noted advice to wear loose lightweight pants and skirts. Just curious why no one says shorts? Do people get dressed up at night if going to a nice restaurant? (BED, etc)
Thx

You will see people in shorts, but honestly, most people are dressed in pants instead. Or for women, a nice looser fitting dress or skirt or pants or capris in cotton or linen. The heat and humidity play into this, along with very intense sun.

People do not usually go to dinner in their shorts. Khakis and nice shirt, or pants, top, or dress, with nice shoes for the ladies. Some places will not let you in if you are not properly dressed. You may be surprised at just how "comsopolitan" (maybe that's not quite the right word) BKK is quickly becoming!!

Carol

Go only in December or January.

Before you go, know all you can about the river boat system and Skytrain. Have an idea of the various parts of the city. Bring a guide book.

Learn a little about the history. Even a few dates will help.

Get 'small money' in the airport. Always carry some.

jacki, you may wear shorts at resorts, but it's really not city wear. Certainly Bed is a dressier place than most - they specify a dress code on their website. But in general, you wouldn't wear shorts to dinner in Bangkok. And during the day, you'll be more comfortable dressed in pants or skirts, both because of the alternating heat and AC and because of the norms about dress in the city.

Don't waste the first day "fighting" jet lag. Get out there and hit the pavement. No sense in wasting time while in Thailand. The lag hits me hard for the first 5 days, especially at 8 pm Thai time. Its brutal. Just keep moving and no rest breaks in the hotel!

In large stores eg Emporium or Central Chitlom ask for English speaking assistance - they will call someone wearing an "I speak English" badge.

Don't point the bottom of your feet at anyone (be careful when crossing your legs!), it is considered extremely rude.

Don't touch people's heads.

Not a necessity, but appreciated - when handing someone paper, do it with two hands. If you use one hand, use your right hand.