Thailand Guide
Know Before You Go...®
Thailand, a captivating Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Phuket and Krabi, it offers a diverse range of experiences. Visitors can explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, and historic sites like Ayutthaya while savoring world-famous cuisine. Adventurers will find opportunities for trekking, diving, and exploring tropical rainforests, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy tranquil islands and luxurious spa retreats. Thailand’s unique blend of modern cities, rich traditions, and natural beauty creates an unforgettable destination for travelers from around the globe.
Why Thailand?
- Thailand is home to over 40,000 temples, each showcasing unique architecture.
- Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market is one of the largest weekend markets in the world.
- The Phi Phi Islands gained fame after being featured in the film "The Beach."
- Thailand hosts Songkran, the world’s biggest water fight, during its New Year celebrations.
- Chiang Mai’s lantern festival lights up the sky with thousands of glowing lanterns.
History
Thailand, historically known as Siam, has a rich and intriguing history shaped by its unique position in Southeast Asia. Unlike many of its neighbors, Thailand was never colonized, allowing it to maintain its sovereignty and cultural identity through centuries of global change. Its roots trace back to ancient kingdoms such as the Sukhothai, often considered the cradle of Thai civilization, where the foundations of its language, religion, and art were established in the 13th century. The Ayutthaya Kingdom followed, flourishing as a hub of trade and diplomacy from the 14th to the 18th centuries before falling to Burmese invaders.
The Chakri dynasty, established in 1782, brought stability and modernization under King Rama I. The capital was moved to Bangkok, which became a vibrant cultural and political center. During the reign of King Rama V in the late 19th century, Thailand embraced reforms to modernize its infrastructure, education, and government while skillfully navigating pressures from colonial powers.
In the 20th century, Thailand transitioned from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy, while maintaining its deep-rooted traditions. Today, it is celebrated for blending ancient customs with modernity, from its iconic temples to bustling cities, embodying a history of resilience, adaptability, and rich cultural heritage.
Transportation on Thailand
Getting to Thailand and getting around. Our transportation tips will
help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport valid for stay.
- Tourist visa (if required by nationality).
- Proof of return or onward travel.
Departure Tax
A departure tax of 700 Thai Baht (~$20) is included in most airline tickets. Verify with your airline to confirm.
Driving
- Driving License: Foreign licenses are valid for short stays; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- Driving Side: Left.
- Roads: Main roads are well-maintained, but rural routes may have varying conditions.
- Speed Limits: Typically 90-120 km/h (56-75 mph) on highways and 50-80 km/h (31-50 mph) in urban areas.
- Traffic Rules: Be cautious of motorcycles, pedestrians, and local driving customs. Parking in cities can be limited, especially in tourist areas.
Local Transportation
Thailand offers a variety of transportation options suited for different budgets and travel needs. In cities like Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway provide efficient and affordable transit, while tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available for shorter journeys, though fares should be negotiated beforehand. Long-distance travel between cities is served by buses, trains, and domestic flights, with budget airlines offering quick connections. Songthaews, shared pickup trucks, and motorbike taxis are popular in smaller towns and tourist areas. Ferries and speedboats operate between islands, providing access to popular destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui. Renting motorbikes or cars is common for exploring remote areas.
Know Before You Go...® - Thailand Travel Tips
Before making their way to Thailand , vacationers like
to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a
look at our travel tips to make your time in villas
in Thailand even more relaxing.
| Capital: |
Bangkok |
| Population: |
70 million (estimated) |
| Size: |
198,117 square miles (estimated) |
| Electric Current: |
220 |
| Official Language: |
Thai is the official language of Thailand and is widely spoken across the country. English is commonly understood in tourist areas, especially in hotels, restaurants, and major attractions. |
| Currency: |
- The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB).
- ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist destinations.
- Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, though small businesses often prefer cash.
- Contactless payments like Apple Pay are less common but gaining traction in larger cities.
|
| Tipping and Taxes: |
- Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated, with small amounts (10-20 Baht) for service or rounding up the bill being customary. In upscale restaurants, 10% is typically expected.
- VAT (Value Added Tax) is 7% and is usually included in displayed prices.
|
| Dress Code: |
Thailand’s dress code is casual and weather-appropriate due to the tropical climate. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal, though modest attire is required when visiting temples or religious sites. Upscale venues may require smart casual. |
| Topography: |
Thailand features diverse landscapes, from mountainous regions in the north to tropical beaches in the south. The central plains are fertile and ideal for rice farming. Coastal areas feature stunning islands and coral reefs. |
| Telephone: |
* Country code: +66
* Area codes vary by region, with mobile and landline networks widely available. |
Thailand Weddings and Honeymoons
In Thailand, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.
Application: Visit a district office (Amphur) in Thailand to register the marriage.
Documents Needed:
- Valid passports and arrival cards.
- Affidavits of freedom to marry from your embassy (translated into Thai and certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
- A divorce decree or death certificate from a previous marriage (if applicable)
Translation: All non-Thai documents must be officially translated into Thai and certified.
Waiting Period: No official waiting period, but the process may take several days due to documentation and certification requirements.
Ceremony: The civil registration at the Amphur is the legally binding part of the marriage.
Costs: Marriage registration fees are minimal, typically under $10. Additional costs apply for translations, embassy affidavits, and certification.
Optional Religious Ceremony: Can be conducted after the civil marriage but is not legally binding.
See our favorite Thailand villas for honeymoons. 
