USEFUL INFO THAILAND
Practical information to organize the trip with details about the best period to go, necessary documents, how to get around and much more.
WHEN TO GO to THAILAND
The best time to visit Thailand is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier, with milder temperatures, making it ideal for exploring both the cities and the beaches. The rainy season is from May to October, with frequent showers, especially in the central and southern regions. Although the rains do not last all day, it is advisable to avoid the wet season if you plan on doing outdoor sports or visiting remote islands. The high season coincides with holidays and vacations, so book in advance to avoid surcharges.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED for THAILAND
To enter Thailand, you need a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival. Tourists from many countries, including Italy, do not need a visa for stays of up to 30 days if entering by air, or 15 days if arriving by land. For longer stays, you must apply for a tourist visa. In addition, starting from 2022, it is mandatory to have a health insurance policy that covers medical expenses and COVID-19. For more information on this, we recommend that you consult the Farnesina website.
WHAT TO BRING TO THAILAND
Thailand is a fantastic country with lots of wonders to discover. To better enjoy your adventure to discover Thailand, here is a reminder of what to pack (indeed, we recommend a backpack if you are about to leave for an On The Road. It is more practical, more convenient when you have to reach the dispersed hotels. in the narrow alleys of the medinas and takes up less space in the car, especially if you are traveling in a group). So don't forget the essential:
Comfortable and resistant shoes
Mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer
Sunscreen and after-sun cream (especially in the summer months)
Credit card just in case (remember to notify the bank that you will make withdrawals and payments abroad)
Photocopy of your passport in case of loss
Kit of basic medicines (Paracetamol, Anti-inflammatory, Intestinal antibiotic and broad spectrum antibiotic, Antidiarrheal, Lactic ferments and Patches)
Dress longer to visit religious sites
Warm clothes for cool evenings
Light clothes to withstand the heat
If you travel with a lot of medicines, remember to enclose your medical prescriptions
THAILAND'S CULTURE
Thai culture is deeply influenced by Buddhism, which permeates every aspect of daily life, from temples to religious ceremonies. Thailand is a constitutional monarchy, and the king is revered. The tradition of respect is central: bowing to elders, using the "wai" (traditional greeting), and paying respect to Buddha images are daily practices. Thai cuisine is famous for its balance of flavors: sweet, salty, spicy and sour. Iconic dishes include pad thai, tom yum (spicy soup), and green curry. Traditional Thai music and dance are also important forms of cultural expression, with classical dances telling mythological and historical stories. Traditional festivals, such as Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights), celebrate the connection between nature, spirituality and community. Thailand is a mix of ancient traditions and modern influences.
GAY FRIENDLY THAILAND?
Thailand is generally considered a gay-friendly country compared to many other Asian countries. Thai society tends to be relatively tolerant towards LGBT+ people, although the culture is still influenced by traditional and conservative values, especially in rural areas. Large cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Pattaya have a vibrant gay scene, with bars, clubs, saunas and events dedicated to the LGBT+ community. Bangkok in particular is known for its gay nightlife, with the Silom district being home to one of the most popular areas, Soi 2 and Soi 4.
Thailand also hosts annual events such as Bangkok Pride, although it is not yet officially recognised by the state. Same-sex marriage is not legally recognised, but there is growing pressure for LGBT+ civil rights. Traditional families may not be completely accepting, but younger generations are more open to sexual diversity.
The Thai government has also made some important steps towards recognizing the rights of transgender people, with laws allowing people to legally change their gender, although there are still some legal challenges to overcome. Overall, Thailand is a relatively safe and welcoming place for LGBT+ travellers.
LOCAL CURRENCY in THAILAND
The local currency in Thailand is the Thai baht (THB). Banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 baht, while coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 10 baht, as well as smaller 25 and 50 satang coins. For tourists, it is easy to exchange currency for baht at banks, exchange offices (especially in airports and tourist centres) and ATMs that accept international cards such as Visa and MasterCard. It is also possible to withdraw baht directly from ATMs, but be aware of any fees that may apply. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, hotels, restaurants and brand name shops, but cash is preferable in local markets and small businesses. The exchange rate can fluctuate, so it is advisable to monitor the rate or ask local questions to get the best value.
CREDIT CARDS in THAILAND
In Thailand, international credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are generally accepted in major cities and tourist spots such as hotels, high-end restaurants, and brand name stores. However, in local markets, small boutiques, and rural areas, card payment may be limited, and in these cases, it is preferable to use cash. Additionally, some places may charge around 3-5% when paying by credit card. To avoid inconvenience, it is advisable to carry a supply of baht cash and use your card mainly for large purchases or in places where card transactions are safe and convenient.
LOCAL TIPS in THAILAND
In Thailand, tipping is not obligatory, but it is highly appreciated and part of the local culture, especially in the tourism and restaurant industries. In restaurants, if service is not included in the bill, it is customary to leave a 10% tip, but it is not mandatory. For taxi drivers, it is common to round up the fare or leave a little extra. Tour guides and hotel staff also appreciate tips, which vary depending on the level of service received. In general, carrying small bills is helpful for leaving appropriate tips.
BARGAIN in THAILAND
Bargaining is common, especially in local markets, souvenir shops and with street vendors. Although prices are often displayed, it is possible to negotiate for a discount, especially in tourist areas. It is important to do so politely and respectfully, as local vendors may be more willing to reduce prices if treated politely. In large shopping malls and high-end restaurants, however, prices are fixed and non-negotiable. Closing a deal with a smile helps maintain a good relationship with locals.
ELECTRICITY AND TIME ZONE in THAILAND
In Thailand, the electrical voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz, so you will need an adapter for type A, B, C or O plugs. For those traveling with electronic devices, it is recommended to bring a universal adapter. Regarding the time zone, Thailand follows Thailand Standard Time (TST), which is UTC+7. There is no daylight saving time, so the time zone remains constant all year round. Compared to Italy, Thailand is 6 hours ahead during standard time, and 5 hours ahead during daylight saving time.
GETTING AROUND in THAILAND
Getting around Thailand is relatively easy thanks to the variety of options available. In major cities like Bangkok, public transportation such as the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are quick and convenient ways to get around. Tuk-tuks and taxis are also popular options, but it’s a good idea to negotiate a price or make sure the meter is turned on. For long-distance travel, there are buses, trains, and domestic flights connecting major tourist cities like Chiang Mai and Phuket. In many tourist cities, motorcycle taxis and songthaews (shared vans) are also convenient and affordable for short trips. Rental bicycles and scooters are options for self-guided exploration, but it’s important to drive carefully as traffic can get chaotic. Boats are a great way to get between islands and along rivers, especially in Bangkok and the southern islands. Finally, walking is always a good option for exploring the historic city centers.
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