If you’re planning a holiday to Thailand, you’ll need a Thailand tourist visa to enter the country. There are two types of tourist visas: the Single-Entry Tourist Visa, which allows a stay of up to 60 days, and the Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa, valid for six months with a 60-day stay limit per visit. If you’re from one of the 31 eligible countries or regions, you can apply for a Visa on Arrival at immigration checkpoints, allowing you to stay for up to 15 days. Additionally, citizens of 93 countries can enter Thailand under the visa exemption program for tourism, business, emergency matters, or short-term work for stays of up to 60 days.

The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season, from November to February. The weather is more pleasant, with lower humidity and temperatures ranging from 24-30°C (75-86°F). Avoid visiting during the rainy season (May to October) as it can be very wet, especially in the south.

Thailand has many famous attractions, including Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Wat Pho, Khao Sok National Park, Chiang Mai’s Old City and Doi Suthep Temple, Phuket’s Patong Beach and Phi Phi Islands, the ancient city of Sukhothai, The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai, the floating markets of Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa.

Thailand is generally safe for tourists, with millions visiting each year without issues. However, like any popular tourist destination, you should stay vigilant against petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Avoid isolated areas at night, be cautious of scams (especially involving taxis or tuk-tuks), and always respect local laws and customs.

The currency used in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, especially in hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller shops or street vendors. ATMs are widely available, and exchanging money at local banks or currency exchange booths is straightforward.

The official language is Thai. While many people working in the tourism industry can speak English, especially in major cities, it’s helpful to know a few basic Thai phrases, like “hello” (Sawasdee) and “thank you” (Khob Khun). Learning basic phrases can enhance your travel experience, particularly in more rural areas.

Thailand offers various ways to get around:

– Buses are affordable and available throughout the country. 

– Taxis and tuk-tuks are popular in cities like Bangkok. Always agree on the fare before you ride a tuk-tuk, or insist that the taxi driver use the meter. 

– Skytrain (BTS) and subway (MRT) are excellent in Bangkok. 

– Motorbike taxis are available in many areas, but make sure to wear a helmet. 

– Boats and ferries are common for island hopping or travel along the rivers.  – Renting a car or motorbike is also an option, though driving in busy cities like Bangkok can be challenging.

Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors, combining sweet, salty, sour, and spicy. Must-try dishes include Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles), Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Som Tum (green papaya salad), Green Curry, Massaman Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice (a dessert). Street food is a huge part of Thai culture, and you’ll find stalls selling delicious and affordable dishes all over the country.

Yes, Thailand has its own set of cultural norms and etiquette:

– Respect the monarchy: Thailand has strict lèse-majesté laws, meaning you should always show respect for the royal family.

– Head and feet: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture, so avoid touching someone’s head. Similarly, feet are seen as the lowest part of the body, so avoid pointing them at people or religious images. – Respect for Buddha: When visiting temples, dress modestly and show respect when photographing Buddha statues or images.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Thailand. In restaurants, if the service charge is not included in the bill, leaving a tip of around 10% is a nice gesture. For hotel staff or tour guides, a small tip (20-50 baht) is appreciated.