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Planning a trip to Thailand? Curious about what to pack and what to expect? We’re here to help. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Thailand travel, from the big concerns to the little curiosities.

If you really want to be informed on your trip, the best thing to do is to connect with a Thai local. They’ll plan you an authentic, immersive itinerary, answer any questions you have, and make sure you see the best of Thailand while you’re there. 

 

The official language of Thailand is Thai. 

The top three languages spoken in Thailand, according to Ethnologue, are Central Thai, Northern Thai, and Isan. Central Thai is the official language of Thailand and is spoken by about 20 million people. Northern Thai is spoken by about 6 million people. Isan is spoken by about 15 million people.


While English is quite widely spoken throughout the country, especially in tourist areas, do not assume all individuals will be able to converse in English. 

The currency used throughout the country is Thai baht. Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted at most hotels and tourist locations. ATMs are very common throughout the country.

The cooler season between November and February is the best time to visit Thailand when temperatures sit pleasantly around the late 20s. However, there is no bad time to visit thanks to its year-round warm tropical weather and laid-back beach resort lifestyle.

Internet access is good in most major areas of Thailand. WIFI is available at most restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels and malls. Spotty areas exist in remote areas and villages in Thailand. 

It is possible to purchase a SIM card at BKK airport on arrival. But, we suggest you check with your cellular provider to know what your options are. You might be able to get an affordable roaming plan.   

Definitely! There are several things the whole family will enjoy such as a safari camp experience at Elephant Hills to get up close to elephants, water-based activities in Angthong Marine Park, or in the Andaman Sea, and cooking and bicycle tours. We can create a custom itinerary based on your family's interests.  

Songkran (Water Festival) - Held annually on April 13 and celebrated throughout Thailand. This festival can be compared to a large water fight. Avoid this festival unless you are okay to get wet and join the fun! 

Chinese New Year - The first day on the Chinese calendar (typically January and February). The best place to celebrate is Chinatown in Bangkok, but celebrations are held throughout the country. This event attracts a lot of visitors creating lots of traffic and noise. If you prefer a peaceful or more quiet getaway, it is recommended to avoid travel during this time. 

Yi Peng and Loy Krathon (Lantern Festival) - Both events are celebrated in tandem on the full moon of the 12-month Thai lunar calendar. These events are primarily celebrated in northern Thailand. 

Full Moon and Half Moon Parties - Held every month in Koh Pha Ngan on the night of the half and full moon. These events attract 10,000+ young tourists to the island which can create quite a bit of traffic and noise. Avoid travel to the island during this time unless going to the island specifically for the party.

 

Easy to get to Thailand is easy! From Many Places in The world daily direct flights are scheduled to depart from most major cities to the International Airport at Bangkok Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Many airlines operate flights.

Getting around Thailand is easy, with tuk-tuks, taxis, shuttle buses, private car and Thailand Travel agent

Services all available at affordable prices. Thailand is also very easy to explore on foot, particularly in the main resort towns however taxis might be a more comfortable option on hotter days and are also readily available.

 

Car hire is available in Thailand, with many roads and vehicles up to modern standards. Although driving is typically not the most popular way of getting around, car and motorbike hire is affordable and is a convenient option for those wishing to explore at their own pace. Driving is done on the left-hand side of the road, just like in the UK and Australia. To hire and operate a vehicle in Thailand, all you need is a current driver's license in English from your country of origin or a valid International license.

Thailand is a great holiday destination for kids. Many hotels and resorts specifically cater to families, with plenty of great deals and onsite kids clubs or child minding available. An affordable family holiday, Thailand also offers children a wide array of activities and attractions to keep them entertained.

Thailand is not considered an expensive country and can be enjoyed on a very moderate budget. Of course, you can spend big in Thailand if you wish however even those seeking luxury will find the prices in Thailand very agreeable.

ATMs are located across Thailand, accepting most international cards (note: withdrawal fees can be quite high). Hotels and retailers offer currency exchange, though rates tend to be better at banks and authorized exchanges. All major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and Amex) are accepted at most retailers and restaurants.

The Thai Baht is the official currency of Thailand. Each baht is divided into 100 satangs. A typical meal will cost approximately 150 baht.

When it comes to Thailand, while tipping isn’t necessarily customary, it’s certainly appreciated. However, it’s not as simple as giving a percentage of your bill – there are certain situations where it is more appropriate to TIP, and some where it isn’t. Here’s a guide to the etiquette surrounding tipping in Thailand. We suggest leaving approximately 10% of the bill.

In Thailand, the sale of alcohol is only permitted between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and between 5 p.m. and midnight. On religious holidays the sale of alcohol is forbidden. You must be at least 20 years old to drink and purchase alcohol in Thailand.

All Clients who Come to Thailand with a current passport valid for at least 6 months after departure may travel through Thailand for 30 days without requiring a visa. Australian travelers entering Thailand overland can stay for 15 days without requiring a visa, For longer stays, travelers can obtain a visa from the closest Embassy or Consulate of Thailand before departure.
Departure taxes are generally included in airfares, however, it is advisable to check at the time of booking. Flights with long stopovers will attract a departure tax of approximately 700 -1000 Baht to leave the airport. Please note that variations can occur with little or no notice.
This information is subject to change and we recommend Australians refer to the Royal Thai Embassy website before departure.

Most resorts offer wireless broadband internet and popular tourist precincts also feature internet cafes. We recommend purchasing a local SIM for mobile phone and internet access.

Australian visitors cannot use their normal electrical plugs in Thailand and will require an international adaptor. Thailand uses 220V AC electricity and most power outlets feature a two-prong round socket.

Although travel insurance is no longer a mandatory entry requirement for travelers to Thailand, we strongly recommend purchasing cover before your trip to protect you in the event of overseas medical costs or cancellations. Whether your kind of holiday is found within the secure grounds of your beachside resort or diving deep beneath the waves, small accidents can become catastrophic without insurance. Whether your bag is lost in transit, goods are stolen or you fall ill, travel insurance is worth it for the peace of mind alone. STOPPED.