Thailand – Important Instructions for Tourists

Why tours to the Similan and Surin Islands are considered the best in Thailand

· They are located in national marine parks, where nature is strictly protected.

· The number of visitors is limited, so nature is not harmed.

· The clear water is much cleaner than on most tourist islands.

· A wide range of marine animals.

· The best underwater photography you can get in Thailand.

· Unique natural landscapes that cannot be found anywhere else in the country.

· The tours are safe, well organized, and run by trusted operators.

· The best starting points are Khao Lak, not Phuket.

These tours are a must for those who want to see the sea “like on a postcard”.

Other route options for different types of tourists

Thailand is vast, and here you can create dozens of different routes to suit your personality.

1. Beach routes

Suitable for those who are going overseas.

Examples:

· Like Lak

· Phuket (quiet areas or the north of the island)

· Ko Lanta

· Koh Tao

· Koh Phangan

· Samui

2. Cultural routes

For those who come for temples, history, and traditions.

Examples:

· Bangkok

· Ayutthaya

· Chiang Mai

· Chiang Rai

· Sukhothai

3. Trekking and nature

For travelers who value mountains, forests, and national parks.

Examples:

· Khao Sok

· Doi Inthanon

· Doi Suthep

· Phuphaman

· Pai and Mae Hong Son

4. Excursions and active recreation

For those who love action-packed routes.These could be:·        sea trips to the Similans and Surins·        jungle safari·        trips to the Khao Lak waterfalls·        trips to hot springs·        cooking classes·        diving and snorkeling5. Shopping routesFor those who value markets and shopping centers.Examples:·        Bangkok (the best city for shopping)·        Phuket Town·        Chiang Mai Night Bazaar·        large markets in Pattaya·        Bang Niang Market in Khao Lak1.3. Health and insurance

Traveling to Thailand doesn’t require complex medical preparation, but the country’s tropical climate does impose certain challenges. A proper understanding of medical risks, a well-chosen medication plan, and comprehensive travel insurance are the foundation for a safe and relaxing vacation.

Below is detailed information on what to bring, what vaccinations are relevant, and how health insurance works in Thailand.

Medicines to take with you

Thailand has a large number of pharmacies and many medications can be purchased locally, but it is still recommended to have your own personal kit of medications, especially if you are traveling to remote areas, islands, or planning a jungle trek.

Mandatory basic set

1. Remedies for upset stomach

Thailand is famous for its street food. Even if it’s delicious and fresh, some people may have a reaction due to differences in water or spices. It’s recommended to take antidiarrheal medications, absorbents, enzymes, and fluid-salt replacement supplements.

2. Allergy remedies

Even if you don’t have allergies, in the tropics you may experience reactions to insect bites, fruits, plants, or seawater. Antihistamine tablets and anti-itch creams are necessary.

3. Repellents

Mosquitoes are active in some areas, especially in the evening. Local repellents are strong, but it’s best to have your own, tried-and-true one. Creams and sprays with a high concentration of active ingredients are suitable.

4. Plaster, bandage, antiseptic

This will come in handy for minor cuts, scrapes or blisters, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking or trekking.

5. Antipyretics and analgesics

Fever and headaches are common in hot climates. It’s important to have the right medications for your condition.

6. Sunburn Remedies

The tropical sun is significantly stronger than the average European sun. Even with regular use of sunscreen, skin redness may occur.

7. Individual drugs

If you take regular medications, you should take a supply of them, as well as a copy or a translation of the prescription into English in case of an inspection.

Are vaccinations necessary?

There are no officially mandatory vaccinations for entry into Thailand. However, doctors recommend several preventative vaccinations, especially for those planning an extended stay or traveling to rural areas.

Recommended vaccinations

1. Hepatitis A

It is transmitted through water and food. This is the most common vaccination for tourists.

2. Hepatitis B

Transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. Recommended for long-term stays, tattoo parlors, or dental procedures.

3. Tetanus

Considering the possibility of minor injuries or scratches while trekking, it is best to have up-to-date vaccinations.

4. Rabies

Relevant for those who plan to work with animals, live in villages, or travel to remote regions.

5. Typhus

Especially for traveling to rural areas.

Malaria

Malaria is not widespread in Thailand.

However, the risk exists in certain points:

· border with Myanmar

· isolated areas of deep rural areas

· jungles in remote regions

Resorts, large cities and most popular tourist destinations are completely safe.

Preventive medications are usually not prescribed unless necessary.

Why do you need health insurance and how does it work in Thailand?

Medical insurance is one of the most important documents for a trip. Thailand has modern hospitals, but medical services are expensive, especially in private clinics.

Why is insurance mandatory?

1. High cost of medical services

A routine doctor’s appointment at a private hospital can be expensive. Any examination, diagnostic, or medication incurs an additional cost.

2. Active recreation is popular in Thailand.

Diving, snorkeling, biking, trekking, kayaking, surfing. Even with extreme caution, the risk of injury and bites exists.

3. Removal or transportation of the patient

Transporting a patient between cities or by plane is expensive. Without insurance, this can be a significant burden.

4. Infections and viruses

The tropical climate can pose risks such as heat stroke, water reactions, insect bites or allergies.

How does insurance work in Thailand?

The mechanism is usually like this:

1. If the condition is mild, the tourist goes to a private clinic on his own.

At the reception you present your insurance policy and passport.

The clinic contacts the insurance company, receives confirmation and provides services.

2. If the condition is severe, the insurance company chooses the clinic.

Typically, the insurer has its own partner hospitals.

3. In case of non-compliance with the insurance conditions (for example, an accident on a motorcycle without a license)

The insurance company does not pay for treatment.

This is very important: you can’t ride a motorbike in Thailand without an international license.

4. If insurance covers sports

You can engage in activities without additional risks.

5. If insurance doesn’t cover sports

Diving, surfing or even quad biking may be out of the question.

Before traveling, you must read the conditions carefully.

1.4. What to take with you

Preparing for a trip to Thailand requires careful consideration. In a tropical country, the role of personal belongings, clothing, electronics, and documents differs from what you’re used to. It’s important not only to pack the essentials but also to understand how these items will help you feel comfortable in a different culture, weather, and infrastructure.

Clothes, shoes, electronics, documents, adapters, money

Cloth

It’s always warm in Thailand, but high humidity requires lightweight fabrics.

1. Lightweight T-shirts, tank tops, shirts made of cotton or linen.

2. Shorts, light trousers, loose dresses.

3. Long sleeve clothing for sun protection.

4. Swimsuits and swimming shorts.

5. A hat that is essential for sun protection.

Clothing for temples

For temples it is mandatory:·        closed knees·        closed shoulders·        absence of transparent fabricsFor women, a long skirt or light trousers are suitable.Men wear long trousers.

What to take for the evenings

Temperatures can drop in the evening, especially in northern regions. It’s recommended to bring a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt.

Shoes

1. Beach flip-flops.

2. Sandals or sneakers for excursions.

3. Comfortable closed-toe shoes if you plan to trek or take long walks.

4. Shoes should be easy to remove, because in Thailand people often take off their shoes in temples, massage parlors, some cafes and houses.

Electronics

This is one of the most important sections because a smartphone in Thailand does much more than just communication.

The smartphone as a tourist’s main tool

In Thailand, a smartphone is your navigator, translator, wallet, guidebook, map, contact with your hotel, your lifeline in an emergency, and a means of communicating with locals.

Google Translate

Especially important if you don’t know Thai.

Google Translate helps:

· communicate with sellers, drivers, staff

· explain the address, requests, difficult situations

· translate the menu in a cafe

· translate signs, plaques, and instructions

· understand documents and receipts

Features that really help:

· translation via camera

· real-time voice translation

· automatic listening

Thailand is a country where the level of English varies greatly depending on the region. In Khao Lak, Bangkok, and Phuket, many people speak English. In more remote areas and at markets, English is often unavailable. Therefore, the smartphone becomes a means of communication, making it difficult to explain even simple things.

LINE app

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. Not WhatsApp, not Telegram, not Viber. LINE is used by:

· residents of Thailand

· shops

· motorbike rental

· excursion companies

· dentistry

· banks

· government services

· hotels

If you want:

· book an excursion,

· arrange for food delivery,

· book a bike,

· get a consultation,

· chat with Thais,

You’ll need LINE. This app is often faster and more convenient for locals than any other messenger.

Smartphones with artificial intelligence

Modern smartphones with AI are an important tool, especially if you don’t know the language.

Features that really help tourists:

1. Simultaneous translation during a call

Many new phones allow you to:

· call a Thai operator,

· conduct a conversation in your own language,

· receive translations in real time.

This is especially important when:

· calls to hotels

· conversation with tour operators

· ordering a taxi

· solving everyday issues

· communication with the hospital

2. Automatic translation of correspondence

If you’re messaging Thais on messengers or social media, an AI-powered smartphone can:

· automatically translate incoming messages

· translate your answers into Thai

3. Speech recognition

When a Thai speaker speaks too quickly, AI helps recognize the text and translate it more accurately.

4. Working with documents

AI smartphones can translate:

· accounts

· checks

· instructions

· lease agreements

· menu

This helps to avoid mistakes and misunderstandings.

Therefore, a modern smartphone in Thailand is not a luxury, but an important tool for security and comfort.

Adapters

In Thailand, socket types A, B, and C are used. Most chargers are compatible without an adapter.

But it’s better to have a universal adapter, especially if you have non-standard electronics.

Documents

1. Passport valid for more than six months.

2. Copies of passport.

3. Electronic copies on your smartphone and in the cloud.

4. Medical insurance.

5. Tickets, hotel and excursion reservations.

6. An international driving license if you are taking a bike or car.

7. Card with important numbers: police, tourist police, insurance company.

Money

The monetary system in Thailand must be thought out in advance.

· Maps of international systems (several pieces).

· Cash dollars or euros for exchange.

· A small amount of baht for the market and transport.

· E-wallets, if supported by your bank.

Packaging subtleties

1. Divide things into categories

Use organizers for clothes, first aid kits, and equipment.

2. Keep all important items in your carry-on luggage

Documents, money, smartphone, chargers, medicine, one change of clothes.

3. Consider humidity

Heavy fabrics take a long time to dry. It’s best to choose quick-drying materials.

4. Cosmetics

Sunscreen is expensive, it’s better to bring your own.

5. First aid kit

It is especially necessary for traveling to the Similan, Surin and other islands where there are few pharmacies.

6. Shopping in Thailand

Don’t overload your suitcase: most clothes can be easily purchased on site.

The modern smartphone is a key element of a vast number of processes in Thailand: communication, navigation, payment, negotiations, medical consultations, and security.

1.5. Money

Financial matters play a key role when traveling. Thailand is considered a convenient country for tourists: there are ATMs on every corner, many accept bank cards, and it’s easy to exchange currency and store cash in various formats. However, there are important nuances that must be taken into account to avoid unnecessary losses.

Baht: How to exchange and where to get the best deals

The official currency of Thailand is the Thai baht.

All shops, restaurants, markets, taxis, and supermarkets accept baht.

Where is the best place to exchange money?

1. SuperRich exchangers

The most famous network with good rates.

There are different companies with similar names, but most of them are reliable.

2. Local exchange offices in tourist areas

There are exchange offices with very good rates in Khao Lak, Phuket, Bangkok, Pattaya, and Koh Samui. There are many of them, and they compete with each other.

3. Bank exchange offices

More reliable, but the rate is worse than in specialized exchange offices.

Where it is NOT recommended to change

1. Airports

The exchange rate is usually much worse.

It’s worth exchanging money at the airport only for minimal expenses – for taxis, water, and SIM cards.

2. Hotels

Almost always the most unprofitable option.

3. From private individuals

There may be a risk of fraud.

Cards, ATMs, cash and e-wallets

Bank cards

International card systems are accepted in Thailand.

Cards work in:

· shopping centers

· hotels

· restaurants

· pharmacies

· chain supermarkets

· excursion offices

But in markets, street food places, some shops and small cafes, cards may not work.

It is important to remember

1. Some banks in Thailand may charge a small fee when paying by card.

2. Cards may not work in some terminals – this happens due to the specifics of the POS equipment.

3. Always keep cash with you in case the terminal malfunctions.

ATMs

ATMs are everywhere, from large cities to small tourist areas.

However, there is an important nuance: Almost all ATMs in Thailand charge a fixed fee when withdrawing money with a foreign card.

The average bank commission is a fixed amount per withdrawal, regardless of the amount.

How to use an ATM more profitably

1. Withdraw large amounts at once so that the commission is divided over a large amount.

2. Check the exchange rate on the screen. ATMs often offer a “dynamic conversion” rate, which is always less favorable than your home bank’s. You should choose to be debited in baht.

Cash

Cash is required in the following cases:

1. Markets.

2. Street food.

3. Local cafes, especially in smaller towns.

4. Bike rental.

5. Massage parlors.

6. Small shops.

7. Payment for transport in remote areas.

Tip: Distribute your money across several places – cash in your wallet, a separate amount in your backpack, and a stash in the hotel safe.

Electronic wallets

Thailand has developed local payment systems, but most of them are linked to local bank accounts.

What works for tourists?

1. Banking apps with NFC functionality

If your bank supports contactless payments internationally, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and similar services usually work.

2. QR code apps

In Thailand, QR payments via the PromptPay system are extremely popular.

Foreign cards may work in some places, but not everywhere.

3. Payment via mobile applications

Some stores allow payment via PayPal or banking apps, but this is the exception rather than the rule.

What to expect

The main payment method for tourists is an international card.

The main reserve is cash.

Electronic wallets remain an additional tool.

Chapter 2. Visas and entry into Thailand

2.1. Visa-free entry

Visa-free entry allows travelers to Thailand without first obtaining a visa at a consulate. Tourists arrive at the airport, go through passport control, and receive a stamp permitting them to stay in the country for a specified period. This regime is only valid for tourism, short-term trips, vacations, or visiting friends.

Thailand regularly expands the list of countries it allows visa-free entry to. As of the latest changes, the expanded visa-free travel program covers over 90 countries.

Who is allowed to enter without a visa and for how long?

Visa-free entry is divided into several groups of countries, because the time limits for different countries differ.

1. Countries that are allowed 60 days without a visa (main group)

This group includes most countries in Europe, North America, parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Tourists from these countries are allowed to visit Thailand.60 days without a visa, receiving a stamp directly at the airport.

If necessary, the period can be extended for another 30 days (see below).

This group includes more than 90 countries, including:

Europe

European Union and EEA countries (most):

Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Czech Republic, Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovakia, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Luxembourg, Ireland and others.

Also Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein.

North America

USA, Canada.

South and Central America

Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Peru, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and a number of other countries in the region.

Asia-Pacific region

Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brunei, Mongolia, Hong Kong, Macau.

Middle East

UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman.

Africa

South Africa, Mauritius, Morocco and other countries included in the extended list of permitted countries.

2. Russia: visa-free regime

Russia is on the list of countries whose citizens are allowedvisa-free entryto Thailand.

Russian citizens can stay in Thailand60 days without a visa, receiving a stamp upon entry. If necessary, your stay can be extended for an additional 30 days at the Thai Immigration Office.

Thus, Russians can stay in the country until90 days of tourismwithout obtaining a full visa.

3. Countries with bilateral agreements (special terms)

Some countries have separate agreements with Thailand. They have their own stay requirements, which don’t always align with the general rules.

Examples:

· Countries that have agreements on30 dayswithout a visa.

· Countries that have agreements on90 dayswithout a visa (a very small number of countries, for example, Argentina, Chile, Brazil, South Korea and some others).

4. Countries that allow 30 days visa-free stay

There is a group of countries for which visa-free entry is permitted for a period ofup to 30 days.

These are countries that are not included in the extended 60-day list, but have an agreement for short-term visits.

This list changes, but the meaning remains the same: a category of countries with a shortened period of up to 30 days.

A 30-day extension is also possible for such countries.

How to extend a visa-free stamp

Extensions of visa-free stay are processed by the Thai Immigration Service. Tourists can apply at any immigration office in their place of residence. Extensions are not automatic: the decision is made by the immigration officer, but in practice, most applications are approved if the requirements are met.

Renewal rules:

1. The extension period is30 days.

Suitable for both those who have received a 60-day stamp and those who have a 30-day stamp.

2. Extension is possibleonceduring the current entry.

After renewal, the tourist receives a new stamp with the departure date.

3. You must present:

· passport;

· migration card (if required);

· residential address (hotel reservation or rental agreement);

· passport size photo;

· completed form;

· payment of the established amount.

4. If necessary, extend your stay for a longer period

The tourist must leave the country and re-enter, or obtain a full visa (for example, a tourist TR, student ED, work or family visa).

2.2. Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a new electronic system that replaces the paper TM6 immigration card, which previously had to be completed upon entry into Thailand. With the introduction of the TDAC, the entry process has become simpler, faster, and more convenient.

What is this?

TDAC is an electronic migration card in which the traveler indicates:

· information about yourself;

· passport details;

· date of arrival;

· flight or route;

· residential address in Thailand;

· purpose of visit;

· contact phone number and email;

· basic information required by the immigration service.

The TDAC is submitted electronically in advance of arrival in the country. This expedites passport control, reduces the workload at immigration posts, and reduces queues at airports.

How to fill out

The TDAC is completed online using an electronic form. The process is simple, but requires attention to detail.

Filling stages:

1. Enter your personal information

First name, last name, date of birth, nationality, gender, passport number and its expiration date.