Thailand Travel Tips and Information

The basic monetary unit in Thailand is the Baht. A Baht is divided into 100 satang.
Money is easily available from the numerous ATMs and banks in cities such as Bangkok with the use of your eftpos card or your debit and credit card. There are also a large number of money exchange businesses that will exchange your own country's currency for Thai Baht.

Thailand offers some great food and travel experiences due to its amazing landscapes and people. The people of Thailand are friendly and eager to assist you in having s good time, the food is of a high standard and excellent value for money.

Thai people hold their King and Queen and the Royal Family in great reverence, and so won’t tolerate anyone talking about them in a derogatory manner.

When visiting any religious building or compound dress conservatively. No short skirts, or shorts above the knee, no singlets, or sleeveless blouses and no thongs or slippers (sling-back shoes are accepted).

Remember to remove your shoes before entering a temple.

Climate:
The weather in Thailand is warm most times of year and has three seasons: summer, rainy and winter. November through February is the coolest time of the year and during that time the rain is generally less as well. The southern region of Thailand including Phuket and Koh Samui does not really experience a winter as such.

Entering Thailand:
Visitors from a number of countries must obtain their visas before entering Thailand. Other visitors will be issued with a visa on arrival at an international airport, a border crossing, or an immigration checkpoint. A limited number of countries have agreements with Thailand that enable their citizens to enter Thailand without a visa. Visas are issued either by consulates and embassies outside Thailand, or the Immigration Bureau of the Royal Thai Police within Thailand.

Visitors from the following countries are able to stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without the need of a visa:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bahrai, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA, Vietnam.

If you are staying longer than 30 days you will need to obtain a  tourist visa from the Thai consulate or embassy in your country.

Customs:
Customs Regulations in Thailand are strictly enforced. Those in violation of regulations are subject to fines, and in extreme cases, imprisonment.

Banned Item:
There are a number of prohibited items that are not allowed into Thailand. These items include narcotics and marijuana, and other drugs such as amphetamines are banned as well even if they have been prescribed by a doctor.

Other items banned are any type of pornography, firearms and ammunition.

Restricted items:
You are allowed to bring into Thailand up to 200 cigarettes or cigars and one litre of spirits without paying duty.

Health
Vaccinations may be required, it is important to discuss your travel plans with a qualified doctor to ensure that you are adequately protected against endemic disease. The risk of malaria exists in many rural areas. Please also note as Thailand enjoys a hot climate for much of the year, a hat; a thin long sleeved cotton shirt and sunscreen are required.
Insect repellent is also advised for travel in tropical areas.

Electricity:
Electricity is 220 volts at 50 cycles per second and a round, two-pronged slim plug. Travellers are advised to purchase an international adapter.

Tipping
Tipping in Thailand is not customary; however a token of your appreciation is always welcome.