Fondly known as 'the land of smiles', Thailand is commonly associated with gorgeous golden sand, palm-lined beaches, warm aquamarine waters, glorious temples and verdant jungle-clad mountains. With sixteen million foreigners flying into the country each year, Thailand is the primary travel hub of Southeast Asia, offering a diverse range attractions and activities to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether exploring the teeming metropolis of Bangkok, relaxing on the tropical beaches of the southern islands, scuba diving in the underwater wonderland off the coast of Koh Tao, jungle trekking in the North, or discovering the ancient cities of Chiang Mai, Thailand is filled with attractions to satisfy any interest.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Thai Baht
Symbol: ฿
ISO code: THB
Subunit: Satang
Banknotes: ฿20, ฿50, ฿100, ฿500, ฿1000
Coins: Satang, ฿1, ฿2, ฿5, ฿10
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways
International Airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok), Don Mueang International Airport (Bangkok), Phuket International Airport
Domestic Airports: Chiang Mai International Airport, Hat Yai International Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: No
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes
Subway System: Yes (in Bangkok)
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty tastes. Some highlights include dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Green Curry, and Som Tum (papaya salad). Notable local drinks include Thai iced tea, Singha beer, and coconut water.
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: 1500 - 3000 mm
Average temperature: 28°C
Summer:
Average highs: 33°C
Average lows: 24°C
Winter:
Average highs: 32°C
Average lows: 21°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Thailand is from November to February, during the cool and dry season, when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type A, Type B, Type C, Type O
Voltage (V): 220V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz
*A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.