Facts for the Visitor to Thailand
Cheap Flights to Thailand
The Thai government's loose restrictions on air fares and the high level of competition between airlines and travel agencies means that you can sometimes find really cheap flights to Thailand. Fares fluctuate and the price varies quite a bit depending on the airline, and of course your point of departure. For the best deals book your flights early.
Money and Bargaining
The local currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht, which comes in denominations of 20 (green) 50 (blue), 100 (red), 500 (pink) and 1000 (beige). The larger the denomination the larger the note. Numerals are printed in Arabic numerals as well as Thai. Coins include denominations of 10, 5 and 1 baht. All paper denominations bear the image of HM King Bhumibol and should be handled with respect. There is no black market exchange for buying Thai Baht. US dollars are the most readily accepted currency, but all major currencies can be exchanged in most places. The exchange rate over the last few years has fluctuated around 40 baht to the US dollar. Travellers cheques get a slightly better rate. Visa and Mastercard holders can get cash advances from many banks, and ATMs accepting debit and credit cards are widely available. Food, accommodation and transport are generally inexpensive in Thailand. Tipping is not normally expected, though naturally appreciated. Anything bought at a market should be bargained for, while prices in department and food stores are generally fixed. Good bargaining takes practice. Remember, not every Thai is trying to rip you off, and there is a fine line between bargaining and niggling. Getting upset over 10 baht is pretty pathetic, and in the land of smiles a scowl makes an extremely poor bargaining tool.
Passports and Visas
Thailand makes things very easy for visitors. Most foreign passport holders are issued on arrival with a stamp granting a 30-day stay, without the need to apply for a visa in advance. A few nationalities though must obtain a visa in advance of arrival so check first with your nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days then apply for a tourist visa before coming to Thailand. Without proof of an onward journey and sufficient funds for the projected stay any visitor can be denied entry. In practice this is not checked as long as you don't do anything to upset immigration officials. If you overstay your visa you will face an automatic fine of 500 baht per day of overstay.
Getting Around
Thailand has quite an extensive air service served by a number of domestic carriers. Some very cheap flights are available. Government buses are prolific and private buses run between major tourist and business destinations. Private buses can be booked through travel agencies. Government buses are just as comfortable. You tend to get what you pay for in terms of comfort. There are four main railway lines with several side routes making a fairly good network. Trains have comfortable sleeper carriages but are slower than the buses and must be booked ahead, particularly around holidays. Train journeys are a nice way to see the countryside. Third class on the train is often the cheapest way to travel.
What to Bring
Not much; the weather in Thailand is mostly hot. You may need one set of warm clothes for air-conditioned buses which can get pretty chilly. Bring a pair of long trousers for temple visits. Lightweight cotton clothes are best in the humid climate. You can buy most things in Thailand and prices are likely to lower than in your home country. Large-size clothing, particualrly shoes and hats, can be difficult to find. Tampons may not be available in rural areas.
Communications
Thailand has a very efficient and reasonably priced postal service. All modern forms of commmunication are available. The telephone system is efficient: the country code is +66. The internet is rapidly growing in popularity all over the country and internet cafes are springing up all over. Mobile phones from home can be used in most areas, but you will be charged for both incoming and outgoing calls.
Time
Thailand is 7hrs ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean time). Public offices work a five-day week, Monday to Friday. Most shops are open at least six days a week from 8am to 8pm. Department stores are open later.
Water and Food
Drinking tap water is not recommmended in Thailand; drink only bottled water. Ice is produced from purified water under hygenic conditions. Water offered to you in someones home or restaurant is safe to drink. In rural areas Thai people drink rainwater collected from rooftops. Regarding food safety: use common sense. Restaurants that are busy and frequented by locals are sure to be serving good food. And consider that spicy food and over-indulging could easily be to blame for your upset stomach.
Medical Care
Hospitals and clinics can be found all over Thailand and there is generally quite a good level of health care. If you need medical care during your stay on Koh Phangan island we suggest going to neighbouring island Koh Samui, or to the mainland, to seek treatment for anything serious.
