Thailand🇹🇭
Thailand, located in southeastern Asia, borders Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. Despite border disputes with some neighbouring countries such as Cambodia, Thailand enjoys stable relationships overall. Known for its rich traditions such as Songkran Water Festival, Loy Krathong and colorful temples like Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand's cultural and natural landscapes are equally enchanting. Its tropical beaches, dense jungle, elephants and distinctive cuisine, make Thailand special. Visitors often relish exploring Bangkok street markets, scuba diving in Ko Tao, and attending a full moon party in Ko Pha Ngan.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid disrespecting the monarchy. Thailand has extreme reverence towards its monarchy and any perceived disrespect can lead to severe legal consequences.
- Avoid careless behaviour around wildlife. Interaction with wild animals (like elephants at tourism spots) can be dangerous if provoked.
- Avoid drinking tap water. Tap water is not considered safe for consumption, so it's best to stick to bottled water.
- Avoid falling for scams. From tuk-tuk rides to gem discounts, scams targeting tourists are common.
- Avoid swimming during monsoon season. Rough seas and strong underwater currents can be life-threatening.
- Avoid exposing yourself excessively. It is considered disrespectful to show a lot of skin in public places, especially in temples.
- Avoid over drinking and drug use. Law enforcement against drug use is strict and penalties involve heavy fines or imprisonment.
- Avoid discussing politics. Given the sensitive nature of Thai politics, it's recommended to not participate in public debates.
- Avoid traffic violations. Traffic control is strict, especially in cities like Bangkok.
- Avoid off-beaten paths without a guide. Natural areas like waterfalls or dense forests can be risky without proper guidance.
Overall
6
Crime 🔫
6
Thailand has a relatively moderate level of crime, primarily petty theft and scams targeting tourists. Notably, nightlife areas in Bangkok and Pattaya along with other touristic areas pose increased risks. However, violent crimes make up a minimal percentage of overall crime.
Terrorism 💣
7
While terror-related incidents are generally very low in Thailand, the Deep South provinces such as Pattani, Narathiwat, and Yala have witnessed several insurgency-related incidents over the years. The last major terror incident occurred in 2015 at the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok.
War ⚔️
9
Thailand currently enjoys a peaceful existence without active warfare. Minor conflicts have arisen with Cambodia over disputed temple sites along the border, the significant being Preah Vihear temple dispute in 2008-2011.
Natural Disasters 🌊
5
Thailand’s proximity to the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’ means it experiences earthquakes and tsunamis, albeit infrequently. The country faces annual monsoon season causing severe flooding, with the 2011 flooding being particularly devastating.
Medical Care 🏥
7
Thailand's medical care, particularly in Bangkok, is of good standard and has become a medical tourism destination. Accessibility and quality in rural areas may be lacking. Bangkok hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and English-speaking staff.
Tap Water Quality 💧
4
Tap water is generally not recommended for consumption in Thailand. Although it's safe for locals who are used to the microbes in it, it can cause upset stomach for travellers. Always drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes.
Disease Burden 🤒
7
Disease prevalence in Thailand is relatively low. However, Dengue fever is endemic and occasional outbreaks happen. Malaria is rare, usually confined to rural areas bordering Cambodia and Myanmar.
Corruption 💸
3
Corruption remains a significant issue in Thailand. Common forms include bribery and nepotism. The 2013 'rice subsidy scheme' scandal is known case where corruption led to billions of dollars lost.
Safety for Women ♀️
7
Thailand is generally safe for women travelers with majority of locals being respectful. Solo female travelers should maintain caution, especially during nightlife and in less crowded areas.
Safety for Queer People 👬
8
Thailand is widely accepting of the LGBTQ+ community, making it one of the safest places in Asia for queer people. Bangkok's Pride Parade and Pattaya's Gay Festival are celebrated extensively.
Censorship 📺
4
Thailand’s government exercises censorship on certain media contents, particularly those seen as offensive to monarchy. Known as lèse-majesté laws, they have led to severe sentences.
Public Transportation 🚌
7
Public transportation network in Thailand, especially in tourist cities like Bangkok is efficient with BTS Skytrains, MRT subway, buses, and river boats. Hook turns in 2021 were major accidents involving people falling off ferries.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
While Thailand is quite safe for tourists, it is advised to stay vigilant against petty crime, avoid drinking tap water and not venture alone at night in less crowded areas. Be cautious when swimming during the monsoon season due to rough seas and strong currents.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Major embassies in Thailand include the United States Embassy in Bangkok, the British Embassy in Bangkok and the Australian Embassy in Bangkok.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Routine vaccines like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, and polio should be up-to-date. Vaccines for Typhoid and Hepatitis A are recommended as they can be contracted through contaminated food.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Thailand is home to venomous snakes like the King Cobra and Banded Krait which can pose threats, while Box Jellyfish have been known to inhabit Thai waters. Mosquitoes transmitting diseases like Dengue are also common.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Visitors from most Western countries receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival. Longer visits, require a visa which can be applied for at Thai embassies or consulates.
💲 Currency
The official currency is Thai Baht (THB). Currency can be exchanged at banks, airports, or currency exchange offices.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas. However, smaller establishments or street markets may deal only with cash.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Thailand's work and travel possibilities largely hinge on successful visa applications. English teaching is a common job for travellers.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Comparatively, the cost of living and travel in Thailand is low, making it a popular destination for budget travelers. However, touristy areas like Bangkok can be a bit pricey.