Visa requirements
UK nationals are exempt from requiring a visa for tourism purposes to Thailand. Visitors may stay in Thailand for a period not exceeding 30 days.
Restaurants and hotels
Visitors to Thailand will discover very quickly why Thailand is known as 'The food Capital of the World'. Bangkok is equal to any city in the world for it's selection of restaurants serving international standard fare. Other major tourist centres such as Phuket, Samui and Chiang Mai are also well served with good restaurants. In addition to these international standard restaurants, are many local eateries offering excellent food at a very good standard of hygiene and of course price.
Safety
Thailand is a very safe country to visit. Visitors should just follow simple rules of common sense as followed at home. The main safety concerns at present would be around border regions, where tourists should only visit with a guide. Thailand has an efficient and helpful Tourist Police Service, whose officers are evident in most areas where tourists visit. Look out for them with their special badge and beret.
Health
As Thailand is a tropical climate with warm to hot temperatures almost year round, it is important that visitors take precautions against such things as sunburn and dehydration. Mosquito bites are often a cause for concern among visitors, however these are easily avoided by taking basic precautions. Thailand is also home to many different species of snake, so care should be taken when visiting natural areas and the advice of local guides should be heeded at all times. Medical facilities in Thailand are very good in the major centres. Bangkok in particular is a major regional centre for medical care, with some large private hospitals providing modern facilities. Travel insurance is essential when travelling in Thailand. Those needing prescription drugs, should bring renewal prescriptions if considered necessary.
Generally, the most common complaint for visitors would be travelers diarrhea and the best way to avoid this is to be careful of where you eat and what you eat. Ice has been a threat to people in the past but now not such a problem. If it looks machine made ie the hollow tube type, then it should be ok. Also, make sure you wash your hands frequently and do not rub your eyes with unwashed hands.
Electricity
The electrical current for the whole of Thailand is 220 Volt AC, 50 cycles. Plugs have two prongs either flat or rounded. It is a good idea to use a power surge device if using a laptop computer. Adapters are available in Thailand however it may be best to bring one from home.
Internet
Thailand is well served with Internet providers. There are Internet café's almost everywhere, hotels usually provide a service in the lobby or business centre, while some hotels provide access via in room cables which may be connected upon request. Connection speeds up country may be slower than in larger cities. Broadband is available in some locations such as hotels and cafes.
Currency
The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht. The Baht has 100 satang. Denominations are: Notes -1,000, 500, 100, 50, and 20; Coins - 10, 5,1 and also 25 satang and 50 satang. The smaller coins are rarely needed except for some smaller shops and or supermarkets whose prices are broken-down the satang denominations.
ETIQUETTE
The Thai people are generally very friendly, hospitable and tolerant. The Thai way is generally to avoid confrontation, which is considered to be rude. You will have a happy and enjoyable experience in Thailand if you smile a lot and be lighthearted. In fact there is a Thai term - 'jai yen' which translates as cool heart and this typifies the Thai way.
Suitable dress
Mostly Thai people are conservative, so it is important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting temples. Everyone should ensure that legs and shoulders are covered when visiting temples. Shoes are often removed when entering a private home or even some shops. Just look for shoes left outside doorways as a cue.
Head and feet
Thai people consider the head to be a sacred part of the body and should not be touched by others. Alternately, the feet are the lowest part of the body and considered dirty. When in temples never point feet at Buddha images. In fact you should be seated lower than an image of images of the Buddha, with your legs tucked away beside you. When in contact with people never point feet at them or when shopping in a market, never point with your feet. Try not to step over any part of another person also. You may walk behind them.
Tipping and Charges
Tipping is generally not expected but it is appreciated if you do wish to leave change or a small tip. For instance, when settling a bill for a restaurant or taxi fare, just round up to the nearest ten baht. Many larger establishments will charge an additional service charge of ten percent plus a seven percent V.A.T charge.
