Travel to Thailand
Thailand heavily promotes its tourist industry and is an increasingly popular with travellers. It is one of the more accessible Asian countries, culturally speaking, and is geared up for tourism. Thailand´s open, friendly culture and variety of attractions makes it a good place for all types of traveller, from those who are backpacking for the first time, experienced travellers, or those who are on a package holiday with their family.
Relatively little preparation is required for a trip to Thailand. Bangkok is fairly Westernized with department stores and chains such as Boots. Most things you can buy at home, you can also buy there. For health requirements, check with your doctor or travel clinic, but it is advisable to make sure your vaccinations are up to date and look into whether you require anti-malaria medication. This would depend on where you are travelling. Medication is available at pharmacies in Thailand and medical care is usually pretty good. You may wish to consider taking out travel insurance, depending on how long your trip is, where you are going, and whether you are doing any sports or activities deemed dangerous. You can not drink tap water in Thailand. If going for less than thirty days then you should be allowed into Thailand without a visa. This applies to visitors from countries such as UK, US, Australia, New Zealand and many European countries. You need a passport which is valid for at least six months and proof of onward travel.
Either you can prebook accommodation before you get to Thailand, or it is usually fairly easy to find good, reasonably-priced accommodation once you get there. The climate is hot most of the year round apart from mountainous areas in the north which can get quite cold at night in the cool, dry season. The south-west coast is affected by rain from May to November. See Thailand weather for more details. The currency is the Thai Baht which you can get on arrival, using either travellers cheques, bank cards or hard currency.
Most people fly into Thailand or you can travel overland through Malaysia, Laos or Cambodia. Pre-arranged holidays are available which can include accommodation, tours and excursions, flights, meals and transport. Planning your trip can be done at home, or with the help of a travel agent. The map of Thailand lists some of the destinations available and links to some of the resorts. Travelling in Thailand can take longer than expected depending on the state of the roads, or weather conditions, so allow plenty of travelling time when organizing your trip, or consider flying to save some time. |
