Visas
Citizens of around 90 countries, including the UK, US, EU, Australia, and Japan, can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days, extendable once to 90 days at an immigration office. You must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival — this replaced the old paper form in 2025 and is free. Technically you should carry proof of funds (20,000 THB per person) and an onward ticket, though most arrivals are not checked.
Nationals not eligible for visa exemption can apply for a 15-day Visa on Arrival at the airport, or arrange a tourist visa in advance at a Thai embassy.
Money
The currency is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are ubiquitous in cities and tourist areas; most charge a fee of around 220 THB per foreign withdrawal. Cards are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls, but cash is essential in markets, street stalls, local restaurants, and on the islands. Currency exchange offices in cities offer better rates than airports — exchange a small amount on arrival and change the bulk of your money in town.
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 20–50 THB is standard. Tour guides and hotel staff expect a small tip.
Language
The official language is Thai, written in its own script. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, at most hotels, and in Bangkok. Away from the main tourist routes, English becomes limited quickly. Learning a few phrases — sawasdee (hello/goodbye), khob khun (thank you), mai phet (not spicy) — is genuinely appreciated and will get you a long way.
Safety
Thailand is generally safe for tourists. The most common problems are petty theft, gem and tour scams (especially around temples in Bangkok), and transport scams at the airports. Tuk-tuks in Bangkok often work on a commission basis, steering you to shops; meter taxis or Grab are more reliable. Never hand over your passport as collateral for a scooter rental — leave a copy or a deposit in cash instead.
A specific caution: some bars and entertainment venues in tourist areas present inflated bills and threaten violence if you don't pay. Avoid places without visible prices and leave immediately if a situation feels wrong.
The three southernmost provinces (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat) are subject to ongoing insurgency-related violence. Most governments advise against non-essential travel there. The rest of the south — including all the major tourist islands — is unaffected.
Health
No vaccinations are required to enter Thailand. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. Malaria risk exists in some rural border areas but is minimal in tourist regions. Dengue fever is present throughout the country — use mosquito repellent.
Thailand has good hospitals in Bangkok and major tourist centres. Bangkok Hospital, Bumrungrad, and Samitivej are internationally regarded private hospitals in the capital. Medical care outside the cities is more limited. Travel insurance is essential.
Tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water is cheap and universally available.
Etiquette at Temples
Dress modestly at all religious sites — shoulders and knees covered. Remove shoes before entering any temple chapel. Never climb on Buddha images or behave disrespectfully toward them, however ruined. Women must not touch monks or hand things directly to them.
Electricity
220V AC, 50Hz. Thailand uses several plug types; a universal adapter is useful. Better hotels provide adapters on request.
Business Hours
Most government offices operate Monday to Friday, 8:30am–4:30pm. Private businesses typically open 8am–5pm. Shops and malls often open 10am–10pm, seven days a week.