Time:
GMT +7; one hour ahead of Singapore time (SST -1).
Population:
Thailand is home to over 60 million people, 10% of which live in the capital Bangkok. Ethnic Thais form the majority of the population, though the area has historically been a migratory crossroads, and thus strains of Mon, Khmer, Burmese, Lao, Malay, Indian and Chinese produce a degree of ethnic diversity. Despite the many races, there is enormous cultural and social integration in the Kingdom.
Weather and Climate:
Thailand's climate is hot and humid throughout the year, with slight variations between the average temperature in Bangkok, from 35 degrees Celsius in April to 17 degrees in December. Downpours rarely last more than a few hours.
Language:
Thai is the main medium of communication among locals. However, English is quite widely understood, particularly in Bangkok as a commercial language.
Currency:
The unit of currency is the Thai Baht (THB) which is divided into 100 satangs. Currency notes are issued in denominations of THB 1000, 500, 100, 50 and 20. Coins are issued in 1, 5 and 10 baht, 25 and 50 satangs.
Drinking water:
Drink only bottled or boiled water.
Banking hours:
Monday to Friday, from 9:30am to 3:30pm. Offices are open 9:00am to 5:30pm on weekdays.
IDD code:
Country code +66. State/area codes: Bangkok (2), Chiangmai (53), Pattaya (38), Phuket (76). SingTel ICC: 001-999-65-0000
Credit/Charge Cards:
Major cards are widely accepted by hotels and larger establishments throughout Thailand, with the exception of small grocery stores and stalls.
Travellers cheques:
Most banks handle travellers' cheques and change foreign currencies. The Plus system allows international travellers to withdraw cash from ATMS.
Electricity:
The electrical current is 240/250V AC 50Hz.
Getting Around:
In a city notorious for traffic jams, you may wish to give the public buses and taxis a miss and opt for the elevated BTS SkyTrain system instead. Although, the route is quite limited, the train links most tourist attractions with major hotels. Try to avoid the quaint "tuk-tuk" motorized scooters as drivers have been known to be quite careless in their driving skills. Tourists who wish to brave the infamous Bangkok traffic snarls can catch buses which stop at designated bus-stands and taxis which are readily available kerbside.
Religion:
Thailand is one of the most devout Buddhist countries in the world. The national religion is Theravada Buddhism (a branch of Hinayana Buddhism), practised by more than 90% of all Thais. The remainder of the population adheres to Muslim, Christian, Hindu and other faiths - all of which are allowed full freedom of expression.
Shopping tips:
Prices in departmental stores are fixed. However, at most other places, buyers may bargain over prices. Generally, expect to obtain a final figure of between 10-40% lower than the original asking price. But remember, Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humour. With patience and a broad smile, you will not only get a better price, you'll also enjoy shopping as an art.
Taxes:
Value Added Tax (VAT) of 7% is added to your purchases in most larger businesses, shops and departmental stores. Visitors spending in excess of THB 5000 at participating outlets may claim a refund when they leave the Kingdom. Visit the website of the Revenue Department of Thailand for details.
Respect:
The Thais have a deep traditional respect and reverence for the Royal Family and religious places. Visitors are requested to show similar respect. Thais don't normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press the palms together in a prayer-like gesture called wai.
Travel Information
Travel from Singapore:
Direct flights from Singapore, two hours twenty-five minutes. Also accessible from Singapore by rail via Malaysia.
Airport:
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is located 25km from the city centre. Rental cars, taxis and buses are available from the arrival hall. Many hotels also operate limousine services from the arrival hall. An express train service is being planned.
Passports and Visas:
Passports must be valid for a minimum of six months from date of entry. Tourists who do not require entry visas are given up to 30-day visa-free social visit passes upon arrival. However, they should have valid passports and tickets for onward or return connections and sufficient funds for their stay. If a longer stay is required, please contact the Royal Thai Embassy or consultate to apply for a 60-day Tourist Visa. Extensions may be applied for at the Immigration Department in Bangkok. If in doubt, please contact your local travel agency.
Customs and Currency Regulations:
Visitors are permitted to bring in duty-free 200 cigarettes and one litre of wine or spirits. Strict restrictions apply against the import of weapons, narcotics, pornography etc. Any amount of foreign exchange in travellers cheques or drafts may be imported, but cash in excess of USD 10,000 must be declared on arrival. It is not permitted to import more than THB 2,000 per person, nor export more than THB 50,000 per person in cash. Antiques and Buddha images require export licences.
More tourist information:
Please contact your local tourism commission or travel agent. Singapore residents may visit the offices of:
Royal Thai Embassy
370 Orchard Road
Singapore 238870
Tel: (65) 6737-2644 • Fax: (65) 6732-0778
Useful Links
Places to Visit
