|
Full Country Name: Thailand (Prathet
Thai, meaning "land of the free")
Capital: Bangkok (Krung Thep, meaning "city of angels")
Geography:
The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia,
making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern
China. Its shape and geography divide into four natural regions
: the mountains and forests of the North; the vast rice fields
of the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands of the Northeast
plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the
peninsula South.
The country comprises 76 provinces that are further divided into
districts, sub-districts and villages. Bangkok is the capital
city and centre of political, commercial, industrial and
cultural activities. It is also the seat of Thailand's revered
Royal Family, with His Majesty the King recognised as Head of
State, Head of the Armed Forces, Upholder of the Buddhist
religion and Upholder of all religions.
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with His Majesty King
Bhumibol Adulyadej, or King Rama IX, the ninth king of the
Chakri Dynasty, the present king. The King has reigned for more
than half a century, making him the longest reigning Thai
monarch. Thailand embraces a rich diversity of cultures and
traditions. With its proud history, tropical climate and
renowned hospitality, the Kingdom is a never-ending source of
fascination and pleasure for international visitors.
Neighboring Countries:
-
Myanmar - west and north,
-
Lao P.D.R. - north and northeast,
-
Cambodia - southeast and
-
Malaysia - south.
-
Area: 513,115 sq. km.
Topography:
Thailand is divided into 4 natural regions:
The mountainous North, with its profusion of multi-coloured
orchids, fascinating native handicrafts and winter temperatures
are sufficiently cool to permit cultivation of temperate fruits
such as strawberries and peaches;
The high Northeast Plateau, which still jealously guards its
many archaeological and anthropological mysteries;
The Central Plain, one of the world's most fertile rice and
fruit-growing areas with colourful traditional culture and way
of life as well as the sandy beaches of the East Coast and
vibrant cosmopolitan Bangkok;
The peninsular South where the unspoiled beaches and idyllic
islands complement economically vital tin mining, rubber
cultivation and fishing.
Population:
Thais are well-known for their friendliness and hospitality. A
large majority of over 62 million citizens of Thailand are ethic
Thai, along with strong communities whose ethnic origins lie in
China, India and elsewhere. About 7 million people reside in the
capital city of Bangkok.
People:
Thai (80%), Chinese (10%), Malay (3%), and
the rest are minorities (Mons, Khmers, hill tribes) Ethnic Thais
form the majority, though the area has historically been a
migratory crossroads, and has thus produced a degree of ethnic
diversity. Integration is such, however, that culturally and
socially there is enormous unity.
Language:
Spoken and written Thai is largely
incomprehensible to the casual visitor. However, English is
widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost
the major commercial language. English and some European
Languages are spoken in most hotels, shops and restaurants in
major tourist destinations, and Thai-English road and street
signs are found nationwide.
Religion: Buddhism (95%), Muslim (4%), others (1%)
Government:
Thailand has had a constitutional monarchy
since 1932. Parliament is composed of 2 houses, The House of
Representatives and the Senate. Both representatives and
senators are elected by the people. A prime minister elected
from among the representatives leads the government. The country
is divided into 76 provinces. The Bangkok Metropolitan
Administration comes under an elected governor. Appointed
provincial governors administer the other 75 provinces (Changwat),
which are divided into districts (Amphoe), sub-districts (Tambon)
and villages (Mu Ban).
Head of State:
H.R.H. King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX of
the Chakri Dynasty)
Prime Minister: Thaksin Shinawatra
Administration:
76 provinces, each subdivided into amphoe (district), tambon
(sub-district) and muban (village)
National Flag:
The red, white, and blue stripes symbolize
the nation, Buddhism, and the monarchy, respectively.
Time:
The time in Thailand is seven hours ahead of
Greenwich Mean Time (+7 hours GMT)
Climate:
Thailand enjoys a tropical climate with three
distinct seasons-hot and dry from February to May (average
temperature 34 degrees Celsius and 75% humidity); rainy with
plenty of sunshine from June to October (average day temperature
29 degrees Celsius and 87% humidity); and cool from November to
January (temperatures range from 32 degrees Celsius to below 20
degrees Celsius with a drop in humidity).
Much lower temperatures are experienced in the North and
Northeast during nighttime. The South has a tropical rainforest
climate with temperatures averaging 28 degrees Celsius almost
all year round.
Electricity:
The electric current is 220 volt AC (50 cycles) throughout the
country. Many different types of plugs and sockets are in use.
Travellers with electric shavers, hair dryers, tape recorders
and other appliances should carry a plug adapter kit. The better
hotels will make available 110-volt transformers.
Tap water:
Tap water is clean but drinking from it
directly should be avoided. Bottled water is recommended
Clothing :
Light, cool clothes are sensible and a jacket is needed for
formal meetings and dining in top restaurants. Shorts (except
knee length walking shorts), sleeveless shirts, tank tops and
other beach-style attire are considered inappropriate dress when
not actually at the beach or in a resort area.
Weights & Measures :
The metric system is used throughout
Thailand. Numerals on vehicle speed ohmmeters, highway markers
and speed limits all indicate kilometers.
Business hours :
Most commercial concerns in Bangkok operate
on a five-day week, usually from 8 am to 5 pm. Many stores open
seven days a week from 10 am to 10 pm. Government offices are
generally open between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm with a noon to 1 pm
lunch break, Monday to Friday except on public holidays. Banks
are open Mondays to Fridays from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm except on
public holidays
Postal Services :
Thailand's mail service is reliable and
efficient. Major hotels provide basic postal services on their
premises. Provincial post offices are usually open from 8.00
a.m. to 4.30 p.m.
International Roaming Mobile Phone : A Subscriber Identity
Module Card (SIM Card) is now available for Thai and foreign
customers who are travelling around for work. The SIM Card must
be used in conjunction with a Digital GSM mobile phone within
the 900-MHz range or a Digital PCN mobile phone within the
1800-MHz range.]
Fax and E-Mail :
All of Thailand's leading hotels offer
facsimile (fax) and e-mail services. Numerous private businesses
offer such facilities, most often in conjunction with
translation services.
Internet :
Thailand has been expanding its information service for
residents and tourists alike through the Internet system.
Services are now available at Thailand's leading hotels and at
the many " Cyber-Cafes " that are cropping up in all major
tourist destinations.
Telephone :
At present, all telephone numbers (for local
calls and long distance calls within the country) have nine
digits.
For Bangkok calls, 02 is added to the existing numbers i.e. 0
2694 1222.
For provincial calls, an area code is added to the existing
numbers. For example, area code for Chiang Mai is 053 = 0 5324
8604; area code for Phuket is 076 = 0 7621 1036. For mobile
phones, 01 or 09 is added to the existing numbers. The new
system has no effect on international phone calls. The
international dialing code for Thailand is 66. When making
international calls to Thailand, add 66 and omit the leading 0.
When making international calls from Thailand, first dial
001+country code+area code+telephone number
If calling Laos or Malaysia, there is a special code which is
charged at a semi-domestic rate. When calling Laos, first dial
007+856+area code+telephone number When calling Malaysia, first
dial 09+06+area code+telephone number Direct assistance: 1133
(local), 100 (international)
Emergency Telephone Numbers
Central Emergency (Police, Ambulance, Fire) : 191
Highway Patrol : 1193
Crime Suppression : 195 or (662) 513 3844
Tourist Police (English, French and German spoken) : 1155
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Call Centre : 1672
Immigration Bureau : (662) 287 3101-10
-
New Year's Day : Jan 1
-
Makha Bucha Day : late January to early
March
-
Chakri Day : April 6
-
Songkran Day : April 13
-
National Labour Day : May 1
-
Coronation Day : May 5
-
Visakha Bucha Day : May
-
Asanha Bucha Day : July
-
Khao Phansa (Buddhist Lent) : July
-
HM the Queen's Birthday : August 12
-
Chulalongkorn Day : October 23
-
HM the King's Birthday : December 5
-
Constitution Day : December 10
-
New Year's Eve : December 31
GENERAL INFORMATION
As a general rule, any foreigner seeking
entry into the Kingdom of Thailand for business, investment,
study, medical treatment, mass media, religion, employment and
other purposes is required to apply for a visa from a Thai
Embassy or Consulate-General. To do so, a foreigner must possess
a valid passport or travel document that is recognized by the
Royal Thai Government and comply with the conditions set forth
in the Immigration Act B.E.2522 (1979) and its related
provisions.
Foreigners who fall into any of the following categories are
prohibited to enter the Kingdom.
Having no genuine and valid passport or document used in lieu of
passport; or having a genuine and valid passport or document
used in lieu of passport without visaing by the Royal Thai
Embassies or Consulates in foreign countries; or from the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, except if a visa is not required
for certain types of aliens in special instances. Visaing and
visa exemption will be under the terms and conditions as
provided in the Ministerial Regulations.
Having no appropriate means of living following entrance into
the Kingdom.
Having entered into the Kingdom to take occupation as a labourer,
or to take employment by using physical energy without skills or
training , or to work in violation of the Alien Work Permit Law.
Being mentally unstable or having any of the diseases as
prescribed in the Ministerial Regulations.
Having not yet been vaccinated against smallpox or inoculated or
undergone any other medical treatment for protection against
disease and having refused to have such vaccinations
administered by the Immigration Doctor.
Having been imprisoned by the judgement of the Thai Court; or by
a lawful injunction; or by the judgement of the Court of foreign
country, except when the penalty is for petty offense or
negligence or is provided for as an exception in the Ministerial
Regulations.
Having behavior which would indicate possible danger to the
Public or likelihood of being nuisance or constituting any
violence to the peace or safety of the public or to the security
of the public or to the security of the nation, or being under
warrant of arrest by competent officials of foreign governments.
Reason to believe that entrance into the Kingdom was for the
purpose of being involved in prostitution, the trading of women
of children, drug smuggling, or other types of smuggling which
are contrary to the public morality.
Having no money or bond as prescribed by the Minister under
Section 14 of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 .
Being a person prohibited by the Minister under Section 16 of
the Immigration Act B.E. 2522.
Being deported by either the Government of Thailand that of or
other foreign countries; or the right of stay in the Kingdom or
in foreign countries having been revoked; or having been sent
out of the Kingdom by competent officials at the expense of the
Government of Thailand unless the Minister shall consider
exemption on an individual special case basis.
The examination and diagnosis of disease of a physical or mental
nature, including protective operations as against disease,
shall be conducted by the Immigration Doctor.
Information on location and contact number of the Thai Embassy
and Consulate-General abroad could be obtained from the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs, Department of Consular Affairs, Visas and
Travel Documents Division, 123 Chaengwattana Road, Bangkok
10210, Tel. (662) 981-7171 ext. 3201-2, 3204-5 or direct line
575-1062-4, Fax. (662) 575-1066 , E-mail : div1303@mfa.go.th
Note: Please check the period of stay stamped in your passport
by the immigration officer. Visitors who overstay their visa
will, at the time of their departure, be fined 500 baht for each
excess day.
Medical Services
All tourism destinations and provincial
capitals have hospitals and clinics staffed by well-trained
doctors and nurse. In the case of an emergency, an ambulance can
be summoned from any private hospital.
Vaccinations : As in most other countries, visitors do not
require vaccinations unless coming from or passing through a
designated contaminated area
Currency and Currency exchange : The Thai
unit of currency is the baht 1 baht is divided into 100 satang.
Note are in denominations of 1,000 (brown), 500 (purple), 100
(red), 50 (blue), 20 (green) and 10 (brown) baht. Coins consist
of 25 satang, 50 satang, 1 baht, 5 baht and 10 baht.
Major currency bills and travellers cheques are cashed easily at
hotels, tourist shops, all provincial banks, shopping centres
and money changers. Travellers cheques are best changed in banks
(you will need your passport). Rates of exchange at banks or
authorized money changers are better than those at hotels and
department stores.
Any amount of foreign currency may be brought into the country.
Visitors may take
foreign currency out of Thailand, but no more than the amount
stated in the customs declaration made on arrival. Travellers
leaving Thailand may take out no more than 50,000 baht per
person in Thai currency.
Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted. For lost cards :
American Express Tel : (662) 273 5100 or (662) 273 0022
Diners Club Tel : (662) 238 2920 or (662) 238 2680
Master Card Tel : (662) 256 7326-7
Visa Tel : (662) 256 7326-7
Tipping : Tipping is not a usual practice in Thailand although
it is becoming more common. Most hotels and restaurants add a
10% service charge to the bill. Taxi drivers do not require a
tip, but the gesture is appreciated and 10-20 baht is acceptable
for porters.
Bargaining : Fixed prices are the norm in department stores, but
at most other places bargaining is to be expected. Generally,
you can obtain a final figure of between 10-40% lower than the
original asking price. Much depends on your skills and the
shopkeeper's mood. But remember, Thais appreciate good manners
and a sense of humor. With patience and a broad smile, you will
not only get a better price, you will also enjoy shopping as an
art.
V.A.T. Refunds : Visitors entering the Kingdom on a tourist visa
are entitled to refund of the 7% V.A.T. on goods purchased at
registered retail outlets.
-
Argentina Suite 1601, Glas Haus Bldg, 16
th, Sukhumvit 25, Bangkok 10110 (662) 259-0401,
259-9198
-
Australia 37 Sathorn Tai Road, Bangkok
10120 (662) 287-2680
Austria 14 Soi Nandha, Off Soi Sathorn1, Sathon Tai Road,
Bangkok 10120 (662) 287-3970-2,
303-6057
-
Bangladesh House No.727 Sukhumvit Soi 55
(Thong Lo), Bangkok 10120 (662)392-9437-8 Belgium 17th Fl.,
Sathon City Tower, 175 Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok 10120
(662)679-5454
-
Belize 10 th Fl.,Pilot Pen Building,
331-331/1-3 Silom Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500
(662)636-8377
-
Bhutan 375/1 Soi Ratchadaniwet,
Pracha-Uthit Road, Samsen Nok, Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10320
(662)274-4740-2
-
Brazil 34th Fl., Lumphini Tower,
1168/101, Phra Ram 4 Road, Thung Mahamek, Sathon, Bangkok
10120 (662) 285-6080
-
British 1031 Wireless Road Lumpini,
Pathumwan
Bangkok 10330 (662) 305-8333
-
Brunei 132 Soi 23 Sukhumvit Road, Khlong
Toei, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 (662) 204-1476-9 Bulgaria 64/4
Soi Charoenmit (Ekkamai10), Sukhumvit 63 Road, Wattana,
Bangkok 10110 (662)391-6180-1
-
Cambodia 185 Ratchadamri Road,Lumphini,
Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 (662)254-6630,
253-9851
-
Canada 15th Fl., Abdulrahim Place, 990
Phra Ram 4 Road, Bangkok (662) 636-0540
-
Chile UBCII Bldg,10th Fl. 591, Sukhumvit
33 Road;Charan Tower, 10 Khlong Tan Nuea, Wattana, Bangkok
(662)260-3870,
260-3892
-
China 57 Ratchadaphisek Road, Din Daeng,
Bangkok 10310 (662)245-7043-4
-
Czech Republic 71/6 Ruam Ruedi Soi 2,
Phloenchit Road, Bangkok 10330 (662) 255-3027,
255-5060 CUBA Mela Mansion Apt.3c, 5 Soi Sukhumvit 27,
Sukhumvit Road, Khlong Toei Nuea, Wattana, Bangkok 10110
(662) 665-2803
Denmark 10 Soi Sathon1 (Atthakan Prasit), Sathorn Road,
Bangkok (662)343-1100
-
Egypt No. 6, Las Colinas Bldg.,42nd Fl.,
Sukhumvit 21 (Soi Asoke) Wattana, Bangkok 10110
(662)661-7184,
266-0236
-
Finland 16th Fl.,Amarin Tower 500,
Ploenchit Road,Bangkok (662)256-9306-9
-
France 35 Soi Rong Phasi Kao (Soi 36),
Charoenkrung Road, Bangkok 10500 (662) 657-5100
-
Germany 9 Sathorn Tai Road, Bangkok 10120
(662) 287-9000
-
Greece 30th Fl, Thaiwah Tower II, 21/159
Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok 10120 (662) 679-1462 Hungary 20 th
Fl., Oak Tower President Park Condominium,95 Sukhumvit Soi
24, Khlong toei, Bangkok (662)661-1150-2
-
India 46 Soi Prasanmit, Sukhumvit Soi 23,
Bangkok (662)258-0300-5
-
Indonesia 600-602 Phetchaburi Road,
Bangkok 10400 (662)252-3135-9
-
Iran 602 Sukhumvit Rd., (between Soi 22
and 24), Bangkok (662) 259-0611-3,
258-9322
-
Iraq 47 Pradiphat Road,Samsen
Nai,Phayathai,Bangkok 10400 (662) 278-5335-7
-
Israel Ocean Tower II, 25th Fl., 75
Sukhumvit Soi 19, Bangkok (662)204-9200
-
Italy 399 Nang Linchi Road, Thung Mahamek,
Bangkok 10120 (662) 285-4090-3
-
Japan 1674 New Petchaburi Road, Bangkok
10320 (662) 252-6151-9
-
Korea (DPRK) 14 Muban Suanlaemthong 2,
Soi 28, Phattanakan Road, Suan Luang,
-
Bangkok 10250 (662) 319-2686
-
Korea (ROK) 23 Thiam Ruammit Road,
Ratchadaphisek, Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10320 (662) 247-7537-41
-
Kuwait Sathon Nakhon Tower, 24th A Fl.,
100/44 Sathon Nuea Road, Bangkok 10500
(662) 636-6600,
636-7461
-
Laos 520, 502/1-3 Wang Thongland, Bangkok
10310 (662) 539-6667-8,
539-6679
-
Malaysia 33-35 Sathon Tai Road, Thung
Mahamek,Sathon, Bangkok 10120 (662) 679-2190-9
-
Mexico 20th Fl., 21/60-62 Thai Wah Tower
1, Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok (662) 285-0995 Morocco One
Pacific Place Bldg, 19th Fl, 140 Sukhumvit Road (between Soi
4-6) Khong Toei, Bangkok 10110 (662) 653-2444-6
-
Myanmar 132 Sathon Nuea Road, Bangkok
10500 (662) 234-0278
-
Nepal 189 Sukhumvit 71 Road, Phra Khanong,
Bangkok 10110 (662)391-7240,
390-2280
-
Netherlands 106 Witthayu Road, Bangkok
(662) 254-7701-5
-
New Zealand M Thai Tower,14 th Fl, All
seasons Place, 87 Witthayu Road, Lumphini, Bangkok 10330
(662) 254-2530
-
Nigeria 100 Sukhumvit Soi 38, Phra
Khanong, Bangkok 10110 (662) 391-5197
-
Norway UBC II Bldg., 18 Fl., 591
Sukhumvit Soi 33, Bangkok 10110 (662) 302-6415
-
Oman 82 Seng Thong Thani Tower, 32nd Fl.,
Sathon Nuea Road, Bangkok (662)639-9380-2 Pakistan 31 Soi
Nana Nuea, Sukhumvit Soi 3,Bangkok 10110 (662)253-0288-9
-
Panama 7th Fl., Sarasin Bldg., 14 Surasak
Road., Silom,Bangkok 10500 (662)237-9008-9 Peru Glass Haus
Bldg., 16th Fl,1 Sukhumvit Soi 25, Wattana, Bangkok 10110
(662)260-6243,
260-6245,260-6248
-
Phillippines 760 Sukhumvit Road, Corner
Soi Philippines (Sukhumvit 30/1), Bangkok 10110
(662)259-0139-40
-
Poland 8A, Sri-Yu-Khon Bldg., Sukhumvit
Soi 5,Khlong Toei,Watthana, Bangkok 10110 (662)251-8891-2
-
Portugal 26 Captain Bush Lane(Soi 30) New
Road,Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500 (662)234-7435-6,
234-2123
-
Romania 20/1 Soi Ratchakhru, Phahonyothin
Soi 5, Phahonyothin Road, Bangkok 10400 (662)617-1551
-
Russia 78 Sap Rd., Surawong, Bangrak,
Bangkok 10500 (662)234-9824,
268-1169
-
Saudi Arabia 82 Seng Thong Thani Bldg,
23rd&24th Fl., Sathon Nuea Road, Silom Road,Bangkok 10500
(662)639-2960-3,
639-2999
-
Singapore 9th&18th Fl,Rajanakarn Building
183 Sathon Tai Road, Yanawa, Bangkok 10120 (662)286-2111,
286-1434
-
Slovak Republic Thai Wah Tower II,22nd
Fl,21/144 Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok 10120 (662)677-3445-6
-
South Africa 6th Fl., The Park Place, 231
Lumphini, Sarasin Road, Bangkok 10330 (662)253-8473-6
-
Spain 7th Fl., Diethelm Tower A.,Room
701-702, 93/1 Witthayu Road, Bangkok 10330 (662)252-6112,
253-5132-4
-
Sri Lanka 13th Fl., Ocean Tower II Bldg.,
75/6-7 Sukhumvit Soi 19 (Soi Watthana), Bangkok 10110
(662)261-1934-5,
665-7299, 261-1938
-
Sweden 20th Fl., Pacific Place, 140
Sukhumvit Road (between Soi 4 and 6), Bangkok 10110
(662)263-7200
-
Switzerland 35 Witthayu Road, Bangkok
10330 (662)253-0156-60
-
Turkey 61/1 Soi Chatsan , Sutthisan
Road,Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310 (662)274-7262-3 Ukraine 87
All season Place, CRC Tower, 33rd Fl, Witthayu Road,
Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 (662) 685-3215
-
United Arab
Emirates 82 Seng Thong Thani Bldg, 25th Fl., Sathon Nuea
Road, Silom Road,Bangkok 10500 (662)639-9820-4
-
U.S.A. 120-122 Witthayu Road, Bangkok
10330 (662)205-4000
-
Vietnam 83/1 Witthayu Road, Lumphini,
Pathumwan, Bangkok (662)251-7202,
251-3552
Do's and Don't in Thailand
The Monarchy : Thai people have a deep,
traditional reverence for the Royal Family, and a visitor should
be careful to show respect for the King, the Queen and the Royal
Children.
Religion : Visitors should dress neatly in all religious
shrines. They should never go topless, or in shorts, hot pants
or other unsuitable attireIt is acceptable to wear shoes when
walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside
the chapel where the principal Buddha image is kept.
Each Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as
a sacred object. Never climb onto one to take a photograph or do
anything which might indicate a lack of respect. Buddhist monks
are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman, or to accept
anything from the hand of one. If a woman has to give anything
to a monk, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it.
Social Norms :
Thais don't normally shake hands when they greet one another,
but instead press the palms together in a prayer-like gesture
called a wai. Generally a younger person wais an elder, who
returns it.
Thais regard the head as the highest part of the body, literally
and figuratively. Therefore, avoid touching people on the head
and try not to point your feet at people or an object. It is
considered very rude. Shoes should be removed when entering a
private Thai home.
Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned
upon.
Special Advice :
- Beware of unauthorised people who offer
their services as guides. For all tourist information, contact
the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tel : 1672. For information
about Bangkok, contact the Bangkok Metropolitan Tourist Bureau,
Tel : 0 2225 7612-4.
- Observe all normal precautions as regards to personal safety,
as well as the safety fof your belongings. Walking alone on
quiet streets or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that
all your valuables-money, jewellery, and airline tickets are
properly protected from loss. Visitors needing assistance
relating to safety, unethical practices, or other matters,
please call the Tourist Police at Tel: 1155.
- Drop your garbage into a waste container. The Bangkok
Metropolitan Administration id no strictly enforcing the law in
an effort to keep the city clean and healthy. The fine will be
imposed on a person who spits, discards cigarette stubs, or
drops rubbish in public areas.
- Do not get yourself involved with drugs. Penalties for drug
offences are very severe in Thailand.
- Do not support any manner of wild animal abuse. Never purchase
any products or souvenirs made from wild animals including
reptiles like snakes, monitor lizards, and also turtle shell and
ivory. Avoid patronizing local restaurants that serve wild
animal delicacies. It is against the law to slaughter wildlife
for food in Thailand.
International and Domestic Travel
Flying is the most convenient mode of
transportation for most visitors traveling to Thailand. Domestic
flights are also easy and convenient, cutting down on journey
time.
A number of domestic carriers service a majority of large
provincial cities dotting generously across the country. Travel
to neighboring countries is cheaper when booked within Thailand.
Train services connect Bangkok to all regions of the country at
reasonable prices. A regular rail service also runs between
Bangkok and Singapore via Malaysia. Long distance coaches, both
air-conditioned and open-aired, connect all major cities.
At the local level, diverse forms of transportation are
provided: provincial buses, city buses, songthaews, tuk-tuks,
rickshaws, boats, and even rental cars.
International Travel
Air : With Bangkok serving as the
international travel hub of SE Asia, the capital serves as the
landing port for numerous international airlines, most with
direct flights from their destinations. Some chartered and
regional flights may land at one of the other international
airports within Thailand, consisting of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai,
Hat Yai, Phuket, and Ubon Ratchatani. Thecountry's national
airline is Thai Airways. Airport departure taxes for
international departures costs 500 baht/person. The check-in
counters open 2 hours and close half an hour prior departure
time.
International Flights Information
(662) 535-1254 (departures)
(662) 535-1301 (arrivals)Those traveling from neighboring
countries may enter Thailand via road, rail, ships, or ferries
Domestic Travel
Domestic travel during public holidays and on
weekends, particularly to popular destinations, should be booked
well in advance for all modes of transportation. Booking is
particularly difficult during the Songkran Holiday and New
Year's Holiday.
Air : Local carriers Thai Airways(TG) and Bangkok Airways (PG)
fly to most major provincial airports beyond 250 km distance
from Bangkok. Thai Airways' 2 most popular routes are Chiang Mai
and Phuket. Services to Koh Samui and Sukhothai are only
provided by Bangkok Airways. Other smaller local carriers
include Angel Air (mainly servicing Phuket) and PB Air which
flies to fewer destinations. Air Andaman services is limited to
the Southern cities only.
The domestic terminal is located at the southern end of the
Bangkok International Airport. Normally, check-ins for domestic
flight is one hour prior to departure time and closes half an
hour before flight time. Departure tax has already been added to
your ticket fare.
Domestic flights Information
(662) 535-1192 (departures)
(662) 535-1253 (arrivals)
Angel Air (662) 937-8908
Bangkok Airways (662) 265-5555
PB Air (662) 261-0220-5
Thai Airways (662) 628-2000
SGA Airlines (662) 535 7050 – 1
Tickets can be purchased through travel agencies (cheaper for
international flights, same for domestic flights) or by booking
with the airlines themselves, either via phone, internet, or
e-ticketing kiosks (Thai Airways only).
Buses : Inter-city bus services offer a fast
means of transport to all corners of the country.
Air-conditioned buses service many provincial areas and bookings
for both regular and tour coaches (private companies) can be
made through major hotels and travel agents, or at the following
bus terminals:
Northern Bus Terminal : Kampaengphet 2 Rd, Bangkok Tel:
0-2936-2852-66 ext. 614
0-2936-3670
Eastern Bus Terminal : Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok. Tel:
0-2391-6846, 0-2391-2504
Northeastern Bus Terminal : Kampaengphet 2 Rd, Bangkok
Tel: 0-2936-2852-66 ext.605
0-2936-0657
Southern Bus Terminal : Boromratchchonnani Rd, Bangkok
Tel: 0-2435-1200, 0-2435-1199
Central Bus Terminal : Kampaengphet 2 Rd, Bangkok Tel:
0-2936-2841-8 ext.311
0-2537-8055
The government bus company, calledBor Kor Sor (BKS),
provides the cheapest mode for getting around Thailand. Being
frequent and reliable, no advance booking is necessary. Both
air-conditioned ones and open-aired ones stop almost everywhere
along their route, with the latter being the cheapest and
slowest.
Trains : The State Railway of Thailand runs an efficient
rail service linking Bangkok (Hua Lam Phong is the central train
station) to the rest of the country at very reasonable prices
for express, fast and ordinary trains. Limited western and
southern routes out of Bangkok also operate from the Thon Buri
Station, traveling to destinations as far as Kanchanaburi
province in the west and Chumporn province in southern Thailand.
On express trains, sleepers are available in three classes:
first and second class (air-conditioned), and second class (non
air-conditioned, but with fans).
Advance tickets are available at all principal stations or the
Bangkok Railway Advance Booking Office at Tel : 0-2220-4444
National Flower: “Ratchaphruek“ (or golden
shower)
Ratchaphruek is chosen as national flower
because it is widely known to Thais, which it can be plant and
seen anywhere throughout the country. It bears beautiful
cluster-shaped flowers in summer. The color of flowers is
shining yellow contrasting great importance similarly to the
color of our national religion ‘Buddhism' and the color of
Monday when His Majesty King of Thailand was born.
National Animal: “Chang Thai” (or Thai elephant)
Thai elephant is selected as national animal because it has
maintained close link with Thai history and custom, it has a
long life, and it is closely related to the livelihood of Thai
people as one of transportation means both in times of peace and
battles. Especially, ‘white elephant' is deeply connected to
King of Thailand, and white elephant was portrayed in the former
national flag.
Thai tradition abounds with examples of the elephant playing an
important role in the workings of the Kingdom. Most significant
of all, perhaps, is the white elephant, prized because it is a
rare animal judged fit only for royal duties.
According to ancient royal Thai traditions, a white elephant is
a noble beast of special importance, exemplifying a king's honor
and glory. Known in Thai as Chang Samkhan, a white elephant is a
gift fit for a king and to acquire one during his reign, will
bring about prosperity and happiness throughout the kingdom.
National Architecture: “Sala Thai” (or Thai-style arbor)
Sala Thai reflects knowledge of Thai people. It retains beauty,
which is different from architectures of other countries, and
foreigners can acknowledge ‘Thai-ness' through Sala Thai.
Shopping Tips
Department stores and a number of shops in
Bangkok have fixed prices, but at most of others bargaining is
acceptable and expected; some department stores will even offer
a discount on expensive items like jewellery and fine furniture.
No fixed rules can be given on the process depending as it does
on the bargainer’s skill and the shopkeeper’s mood, but the
final price may be reduced as much as 30% to that first quoted.
An important point to keep in mind is that Thais admire good
manners and a sense of humour and tend to be put off by a loss
of temper. Providing you have the time, a good general rule is
to make a survey of several shops selling the sort of items you
want before coming to a final decision.
The Jewel Fest Club
Jewellery and gemstones from Thailand are also a favourite item
for many visitors to the kingdom. Their beauty, quality
craftmanship and reasonable price have earned Thai precious and
semi-precious stones a worldwide reputation. Yet occasionally,
there have been visitors who complained about the action of few
unethical jewellers who persuaded them to purchase jewellery at
an unreasonable price.
Through the cooperation of the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders
Association (TGJTA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT),
the Jewel Fest Club has been established, bringing about 100
leading jewellery manufacturers and wholesalers. The club’s aim
to offer quality products at reasonable prices with a money-back
guarantee if buyers are not completely satisfied with their
purchases.
When you purchase an item of jewellery from a store that is
clearly identified as a member of the Jewel Fest Club, your
purchase will be duly recorded, and a certificate detailing your
purchase will be issued. Not only does this certificate of
authenticity clearly state the nature and price of your
purchase, it also guarantees your refund should you wish to
return the purchase. Contact The Jewel Fest Club at Tel: 0 2630
1390-7, Fax: 0 2630 1398-9, or visit website : www.jewelfest.com.
Packing and Shipping Services
Thanks to the ever-increasing number of tourists coming to
Thailand, most shops are experienced at shipping abroad and will
attend to all the documents such as insurance, customs and
necessary permits. The Central Post Office also offers a
parcel-wrapping service for those who want to make small
shipments themselves. For larger items or bulk shipments, there
are several Bangkok companies who specialise in such matters.
VAT Refund
Visitors entering the Kingdom on tourist visas are entitled to
refunds of the 7% value-added tax (VAT) paid on goods purchased
at shops and department stores displaying “VAT Refund for
Tourists” signs. The refund may be claimed if the claimed
amounts in all P.P.10’s have been totaled 5,000 baht or over.
Tourist is eligible to receive P.P.10 form when the total
purchase of 2,000 baht or over is made from the same store on
the same date. Before checking in at the international airport
(Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Phuket, Utapao), tourist must
show your purchases, completed P.P.10 form and tax invoices to
the Customs Officer for inspection. Certain luxury goods must be
shown to an excise official. Refunds may be in bank draft form
or credited to a credit card. For more information, please
contact the VAT Refund for Tourists Office, Tel: 0 2272 9388, 0
2272 8195-8 or VAT Refund Office at Bangkok International
Airport, Tel: 0 2535 6577-8 or www.rd.go.th/vrt/engindex.html |
Vietnam
Laos