Phrao is a safe and friendly place to live. Our location in the temperate north of Thailand means that we are not subject to the disease risks that prevail in the tropical southern regions of Thailand. Simple hygiene – hand washing, use of bottled water – will protect you from most of the illnesses that plague the local poor. We can offer an excellent nearby hospital and a friendly, small town environment.
Crime
There is little if any violent crime in town. This is an essentially rural area and people will treat you as guests not targets of opportunity. But be smart. Follow the basic rules of common sense safety. Do not walk around alone in the evenings. Be aware of your surroundings. Think. Be smart about your small, high value stuff – wallet, handbag, camera, cash, notebook.
Basic Health Concerns
Please consult a travel clinic and/or your personal physician to discuss recommended immunizations and risks for contracting diseases in Thailand. The Centers for Disease Control in the US (www.cdc.gov) makes recommendations for travelers to rural Thailand. A yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into the Kingdom of Thailand if you are coming from an infected area.
Malaria and dengue fever, both mosquito-borne diseases, are prevalent in rural areas during the rainy season (June to September), but are not a serious problem during the cool, dry season (October to March) or the hot season (April-May). There is no vaccination or prophylactic for dengue fever. You should talk to your physician prior to departure regarding the appropriateness of malaria prophylaxis.
Regardless of the season, we are near the equator. The sun is very bright. You should always wear sun protection and take care to drink enough bottled water.
Hospitals
In the event of small scrapes, we are literally minutes from the local clinic (and you may even be working there). For more serious accidents, we are less than an hour and a half by ambulance from Chiang Mai’s Mahajan Hospital. Mahajan is one of the finest hospitals in the country and boasts a staff of English speaking, American trained and board certified doctors. Bi-lingual Warm Heart staff will always be available to accompany you in the event of emergency.