›You are here

Home›Destinations›Asia›Thailand›Thailand FAQ

Thailand FAQ

Is tipping customary in Thailand?

Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Thailand, but a tip of spare change or another small amount would be appreciated by restaurants, drivers and other service workers, especially if the service has been particularly good.

What is the internet access like in Thailand?

Internet access is widely available in tourist areas like Bangkok and Phuket, which have many internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot-spots. Internet access is less frequent in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Thailand?

You'll be able to use your mobile phone in most urban areas of Thailand, although some of the islands or more remote areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Thailand.

What are the toilets like in Thailand?

You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation while in Thailand. The standard toilet is of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to, although western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a…?

Thailand is one of the world's favourite budget travel destinations. Here's what you can roughly expect to pay for a:

Bottle of beer = 80-100 TBH
Street food snack = 25 TBH
Short tuk tuk ride = 50 TBH
Metered taxi to city from Bangkok Airport = 300-400 TBH

Can I drink the water in Thailand?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Thailand. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Thailand?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants in Thailand. However, they may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as small family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns and rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in Thailand.

What is ATM access like in Thailand?

ATMs are found widely throughout Thailand, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Thailand?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Thailand?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Feb 25 Magha Bucha Day
Apr 6 Chakri Day
Apr 13 Songkran (Thai New Year)
May 1 Labour Day
May 5 Coronation Day
May 25 Visakha Bucha
Jul 1 Mid Year Bank Holiday
Jul 22 Asarna Bucha Day
Aug 12 HM the Queen's Birthday
Oct 23 Chulalongkorn Day
Dec 5 HM the King's Birthday
Dec 10 Constitution Day
Dec 31 New Year's Eve

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays in Thailand go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/thailand/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Thailand?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • THAILAND:
    Australia: No - not required
    Belgium: No - not required
    Canada: No - not required
    Germany No - not required
    Ireland: No - not required
    Netherlands: No - not required
    New Zealand: No - not required
    South Africa: No - not required
    Switzerland: No - not required
    United Kingdom: No - not required
    USA: No - not required

    If entering by air you will be granted a 30 day stay on arrival. If entering by a land border, you will be granted a 15 day stay only. A visa extension can be obtained in Thailand at an immigration office for approx. 2000THB. Alternatively you can apply for a Thailand visa in advance from your embassy or consulate that will allow a 30 day stay when entering at an overland border.
  • THAILAND:
    Australien: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    Belgien: Nein - nicht erforderlich
    Kanada: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    Deutschland: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    Irland: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    Niederlande: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    Neuseeland: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    Südafrika: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    Schweiz: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    Großbritannien: Nein – nicht erforderlich
    USA: Nein – nicht erforderlich

    Bei Einreise auf dem Luftweg, erhalten Sie bei Ankunft ein Visum für 30 Tage. Bei Einreise über eine Landesgrenze, erhalten Sie bei Grenzübergang ein Visum für 15 Tage, Visaverlängerungen können in Thailand bei der Einreisebehörde für etwa 2000THB beantragt werden. Thailand Visas können auch im Voraus bei Ihrer Botschaft oder Ihrem Konsulat beantragt werden. Ein solches Visum erlaubt Ihnen einen Aufenthalt von 30 Tagen nach Grenzüberschreitung auf dem Landweg.

Shortlist

No trips.

Thailand at a glance

  • 63
  • Bangkok (population 5.8 million)
  • 67 million
  • Thai
  • THB
  • (GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta
  • Type C (European 2-pin)
  • +66

Subscribe to Newsletters


Inspiration straight to your inbox with travel tips, specials, travellers' experiences and a trip to win in every edition!
  • brochure request