What are the Customs limits to enter the country?

200 cigarettes, or 250g of tobacco, one litre each or wine or spirits, one still or movie camera with up to five rolls of still film and three of movie. Narcotics or obscene literature are strictly prohibited. There is no limit to the amount of currency that can be brought in.

Are vaccinations required?

No vaccinations are demanded, unless you have come from or through an area of infection. But please check with your Doctor or travel clinic at least three weeks prior to travel to ensure that there have been no changes. Use of insect repellent is strongly recommended.

How about driving in Thailand?

An International driver’s licence is required but driving can be difficult. The highways are usually in good condition but some of the smaller roads are not and the road signs are predominantly in Thai.

Is the water safe to drink?

Bottled water is advised.

What is the currency?

The local currency is Baht, which consists of 100 Satang. Check your exchange office for up to date rates.

Are traveller’s cheques easy to cash?

These are easily exchanged at banks and money exchange kiosks. Most hotels will change them but are likely to have a lower rate. You will need to take along your passport.

Are ATM’s easily found?

ATMs are readily available.

Which credit cards are accepted?

The most widely accepted are American Express, Diners, Visa, MasterCard and Carte Blanche. Smaller shops may insist on cash.

What is the voltage?

The current is 220V but an adaptor plug is required. Both round and flat 2 pin plugs are used.

Are Internet cafes available?

Internet cafes are readily available in Thailand.

Can I use my mobile phone?

GSM or PCM mobile networks cover most of Thailand and public phone kiosks will take both coins and local phone cards. You can also purchase a local Thai chip which is very affordable for both local and international calls.

What is the time difference?

Thailand is seven hours ahead of GMT.

Is it customary to tip?

Tipping is highly appreciated and is approximately 20 Baht for a meal.

What should I wear?

Thailand has three main seasons and light loose cotton clothing is recommended with a sweater for the evening in the cool season. Avoid wearing brief or revealing clothing, which is not allowed in holy places. If visiting temples some may require long trousers and that you should have your shoulders covered. Shoes are required to be removed before entering a temple and private Thai homes. Some restaurants will require a jacket and tie. Golf clubs observe normal dress codes.

Is there an airport departure tax?

There is a departure tax, currently, of 500 Baht per person so remember to keep back some local currency when you leave.

Is Thailand safe?

Thailand is not seen as a country of violence towards visitors. As with any new place the usual safety precautions should be taken. Be cautious of over friendly strangers and do not flaunt wealth.

What are good souvenirs to buy?

Local handicrafts of wood carvings and Thai silk are good buys. Or why not have a suit made? These are of high quality and and very reasonably priced.

How do I get around if not driving?

Baht buses are readily on hand along with taxi bikes. When boarding a Baht bus always be sure to read the fare information which is displayed. Payment for your journey is made at the end of your trip. You can request the driver of an empty Baht bus to deliver you to a specific location, if not on the route, but be sure to agree a price before boarding. Baht buses are flagged down, or the driver may use his horn to tout for your business. The riders of taxi bikes wear numbered vests and can be found near hotels or by some apartment blocks.