Thailand

Language

The official language is Thai, but English is spoken and understood in most hotels.

Currency

The baht is the currency in Thailand. Currency exchange facilities are available in all tourist areas. Banks will also accept major currencies and travel cheques. Tour operators suggest you carry a debit card, a sufficient amount of cash and a credit card. A credit card may be handy when paying deposits on things such as hire cars.

Best travel time

In general, the dry period from December to May and offers favourable conditions for all activities. In the south the rainy periods are longer than in the north and in central Thailand. Always be prepared that the weather can change quickly and even the dry season does not guarantee a rain free vacation. Of course this can also apply to the rainy season, when the sun can shine all day.

Visa requirements

European nationals need to apply for a visa in order to stay up to 30 days. For this your passport must be valid for at least 6 months, and you must have a return ticket. Entry cards need to be filled in on your outbound flight and shown at passport control. Provided all is correct, this will mean a quick and simple passage through passport control.

Vaccinations

There are hospitals located in all important tourist areas Vaccinations are highly recommended but not essential. You should consult your doctor before your trip to this tropical region.

Traditions and Culture

Respect for the monarchy is an important part of the culture in Thailand. Before every public event the national anthem is played and a picture of the king is shown. This even happens in cinemas. It is a great offence to offend the pictures of the royal family in any way. Thai people are extremely welcoming to tourists as long as they respect the rules. This country is known for its tolerance and hospitality throughout the world, but there is a need to follow certain rules. One top tip for keeping the locals happy, is to learn the word for thank you khrab.

Religion

Religion is predominantly Buddhist, professed by 94% of the population. Images of Buddha are considered sacred.

By bus

Travelling by train can be cheap and convenient in Thailand. The trains are usually divided by class. 1st class offers travellers private air conditioned compartments with the possibility of a dining cart. Compare this to the 3rd class travel, where you travel with just a wooden bench. It is possible to travel from Bangkok to all major towns by train. Buses are also an option but are often overcrowded and have no air conditioning. Ferries are also a popular mode of transport when island hopping.

By plane

Air travel is probably the most common way tourists arrive in Thailand. From Europe to Thailand the flight can take about 12 hours. From Bangkok it is also possible to fly to other parts of Thailand with local airlines.

By taxi

In Bangkok, traffic is heavily congested. All taxi and rickshaw services offered are personalized and rely on you bartering a deal with the driver.

Events

The biggest holiday in Thailand is Sogkran – or New Year. It is celebrated from the 12th to the 14th of April. Religious Buddhist holidays are also important. They are celebrated with bright colour, flowers, rice and more.

Food

Thai cuisine is known throughout the world, its diversity, quality and sharpness of taste. The main ingredients are rice, noodles, rice, vegetables, fruit and various spices. Chicken, fish and sea food are also widely used. It is important to Thai people that food looks good as well as tasting good. Ver strange for Europeans is what is available in the markets; here you can eat deep-fried grass hoppers and beetles. Theatre and music Thai music, dance and theater is a slow motion special dancers and actors. Actors play in interesting costumes and masks. In theaters often play both male and female roles. Other attractions are cultural and shadow puppet theater.