Practical guide

Everything a first-time visitor to Thailand actually needs.

Eight sections. No fluff. The stuff we tell every guest on WhatsApp before their trip.

Visa & entry+

60+ nationalities get 30-60 days visa-exempt entry (US, UK, EU, AU, GCC — check IATA Timatic for yours).
Passport must have 6+ months validity remaining.
Proof of onward travel occasionally requested at check-in.
Overstay penalty: ฿500/day, cash on exit. Do not overstay.

Weather season by season+

Money & tipping+

Currency: Thai Baht (฿). Roughly ฿35 = $1, ฿38 = €1, ฿9 = 1 AED.
ATMs: everywhere in tourist areas — ฿220 foreign-card fee per withdrawal.
Cards: accepted at hotels, restaurants, malls — cash preferred by small vendors and taxis.
Tipping: not required, always appreciated. 10% at good restaurants, ฿100-200 for a driver, ฿300-500 for a full-day guide.

What to pack+

Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) — Hawaiian brands mostly banned in Thai marine parks.
Modest clothing for temple visits (shoulders + knees covered).
Waterproof phone pouch.
Universal power adapter — Thailand uses Type A/B/C sockets.
Light rain jacket if travelling Jun–Oct.
Reusable water bottle — every tour includes refill.

Connectivity+

eSIMs: AIS, TrueMove, dtac work with Airalo/Nomad. Cheapest is ~$10 for 15 days unlimited.
Airport SIM: buy at HKT/BKK arrivals — ฿300-500 for 15GB.
Wi-Fi: hotels, malls, cafes — always fast. Not on longtails, patchy on remote islands.
WhatsApp works everywhere — Line is the local equivalent.

Emergency numbers+

Health & insurance+

Travel insurance covering adventure sports is a Loma requirement for jet-ski, paramotor and diving.
Recommended: World Nomads, AXA Assistance, Chapka (Europe), Squaremouth (US).
No mandatory vaccinations for Thailand. Rabies + Japanese Encephalitis suggested if rural stay.
Water: tap water not drinkable. Ice at hotels/restaurants is filtered.

Cultural etiquette+

Head is sacred, feet are unclean — don't touch heads, don't point feet at people or Buddha statues.
Never disrespect the monarchy — even in jest. It's a serious crime.
Remove shoes before entering homes and most temples.
Wai greeting: hands together, slight bow. Optional for foreigners, but polite.

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