Introduction-The Land of Smiles
The Kingdom of Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, and one of the finest countries in the world in which to spend a vacation. Blessed with a tropical climate that is neither too hot, too dry, nor too wet in the monsoon season, it is possible to travel comfortably in Thailand at any time of the year.
Travelers, upon arrival in this land, are safe from the turmoil of life. Even in Bangkok, the Thai uniqueness in its food, architecture, language, customs and religion enliven and pleases the senses. Away from Bangkok, at the pristine sandy beaches and emerald seas in the south, or in the northern mountains you drowse your days away in a long deep dream of peace. The past is a forgotten thing, the present is heaven, and the future you can leave to take care of it.
The people inhabiting Thailand today share a rich and ethnic diversity-mainly Thai, Mon, Khmer, Laotian, Chinese, Malay, Persian and Indian. Thai culture is evident everywhere in the Kingdom: in Buddhist rites which take place in numerous Thai temples, the succession of festivals that occur through out the year, and the country markets through out the year, and the country markets where locals haggle, politely, for everything from food to clothing.
For travelers, Thailand is the only gateway in which to experience the special life of Southeast Asia. Due to the fact that the country has never been conquered, the Thai individuality blooms and remains vibrant. When your journey is over, the Kingdom will leave you with the desire to return again and again, as the smells, sights, and memories of a land and people remain indelible in your thoughts, for Thailand is a feast that you will always carry with you.

Landscape
Thailand is divided into four main regions detailed below:
Central Plains: Twenty-four provinces make up Central Thailand with Bangkok as its center. The rain-fed network of rivers and canals makes this the most fertile part of Thailand, supporting vast fields of rice, sugar cane, pineapples and other fruit. Some of the oldest settlements are found here along with some of the most dazzling temples, day and night markets, and historical ruins.

North: The north's hilly ranges are home to most of Thailand's Hill Tribe population. Slimly populated and undisturbed by modern man, these mountain ranges have vast rugged vistas, waterfalls, and footpaths where one can discover these remarkable features. It should be noted that the first true Thai kingdoms arose in what is now Northern Thailand. Hence, the region is endowed with a wide range of traditional culture and architecture, including some of the country's most majestic temples.

Northeast: Known as the "I-San" region, traditional Thai customs continue to flourish in that area. The area rests on the Khorat Plateau. Compared to the rest of Thailand, the pace is slower and the people retain the same friendliness that is found throughout the Kingdom. Both Lao and Khmer influences can be seen and felt within the ancient temple ruins, the I-San distinctive food, the architecture, and the region's dialect.

South: Bound by the Gulf of Thailand and The Andaman Sea, the south is a beach person's paradise. Scattered islands off the coast accentuate this tropical haven. Brightly painted fishing boats catch a myriad of seafood, and long stretches of white sandy beaches beckon. The world seems brighter and more serene here, and one's childhood dream of tropical paradise is within a few hours reach.

Climate
The Kingdom of Thailand enjoys one of the most pleasurable tropical climates in the world with three distinct seasons:

Summer Season from March through May brings hot and dry weather throughout Thailand with temperatures averaging 28 Celsius to 33 Celsius.

Rainy Season from June through September is perhaps the driest monsoon period of any country in Southeast Asia with plenty of sunshine and temperatures averaging 27 Celsius to 30 Celsius.

Cool Season from October through February is mild and very sunny with temperatures averaging 24 Celsius to 27 Celsius.

The average annual temperature in Thailand is 28 Celsius.

Time
Time in Thailand is seven hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7).

Government
The government of Thailand is a Constitutional Monarchy inspired by the British democratic model. National polls elect the 500-member House of Representatives and the Prime Minister every four years, and the 200-member Senate every six years. The national voting age is 18.

The Monarchy
His majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej is the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty, which was founded in 1782 by Rama I. His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX, is the longest reigning king in Thai history. Though Thailand's political system is officially classified as a constitution states that the king be "enthroned in a position of revered worship" and not be exposed to any sort of accusation or "action". Without any legal writ, all Thai citizens hold their king in their king in the highest regard for his dedication to his people through an impressive list of public works projects, and his humanitarian activities of goodwill.
The monarchy is loved immensely in Thai society. Negative comments about the King can lead to public admonishment and in some cases imprisonment.. Images that portray hi Majesty in a disrespectful manner, such as in paintings or photographs, are not allowed.

Holidays & Festivals
Thailand has a large number of festivals and holidays. Exact dates for festivals may vary from year to year, either because of the lunar calendar, which is not synchronized with the solar calendar, or because local authorities decide to change festival dates. The Tourism Authority of Thailand publishes and up-to-date Major Events and Festivals Calendar each year.
The following are just a few of the major holidays and festivals in Thailand:
New Year's Day (January 1)
Magha Puja Day (full moon, third lunar month)-A public holiday commemorating the gathering of the Lord Buddha's disciples that culminates with a candlelit walk around the main chapel of every temple across the country.
Chinese's New Year (late February to early March)-a week of festivities and firework displays in the Chinese neighborhoods through-out Thailand.
Chakri Day (April 6) - A public holiday commemorating the founder of the Chakri Dynasty, King Rama I.
Songkran Festival (April 13-15) - Thai New Year. Water is splashed on everyone in a "gesture of good luck" for the New Year. Be prepared to get wet.
Labour Day (May 1)
Coronation Day (May 5) - A public holiday celebrating the coronation of H.M King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX).
Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day - Start of the rice-growing season.
Visakha Puja Day (full moon, sixth lunar month) - A public holiday commemorating the birth, death and enlightenment of the Lord Buddha.
Asalha Puja day (full moon, eighth lunar month) - A public holiday marking the Lord Buddha's first sermon.
Khao Phansa (July) - A public holiday celebrating the beginning of Buddhist Rain Retreat.
H.M.The Queen's Birthday/Mother's Day (August 12) - A public holiday celebrating the birth of Queen Sirikit of Thailand.
Vegetarian Festival (Early October) - A southern holiday marked by the vegetarian food, fireworks and self-mortification.
Ok Phansa (October) - End of Buddhist Rain Retreat.
Chualalongkorn Day (October 23) - A public holiday to commemorate King Rama V.
H.M. The King's Birthday (December 5) - A public holiday to celebrate H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej's birthday.
Constitution Day (December 10) - A public holiday celebrating Thailand's democratuic constitution.
New Year's Eve (December 31) - Celebration for the coming new year.

History
The earliest archaeological signs of human habitation in Thailand can be found in the Northeast hamlets of Ban Chiang and Ban Prasat where evidence of rice cultivation dates back to 4000 BC (China by contrast was growing and consuming millet at that time). Thailand is also credited for fostering the world' earliest Bronze Age civilization during this period.
Over the next several thousands years, three major groups of people migrated south from China into present day Thailand - The Mon, the Khmer and the Thai. The Mon settled in present day Myanmar, The Khmer in present day Cambodia, and the Thais by 1200 had established dominance in three northern Thailand states, Lanna, Sukhotai and Phayao.
Sukhotai (Dawn of Happiness) is regarded as the first truly independent Thai state and the birthplace of Thai culture. The Sukhotai era, which declared its independence in 1238, saw the Thais' gradual expansion throughout the entire Chao Phraya River basin, the establishment of Theravada Buddhism as the dominant religion, the creation of the Thai alphabet and the first true Thai art forms including painting, music, architecture and literature.
The Sukhotai era declined in the 1300s and eventually become a vassal state of Ayutthaya, a dynamic kingdom further south. Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya, approximately 86km north of Bangkok, was regarded by both Asians and Europeans as one of the most progressive and wealthiest kingdoms on the planet during that period.
During Ayutthaya's 417 years of prominence, the Thai's brought their distinctive culture to fruition, ridding their lands of Khmer presence and fostering contact with Arabian, Indian, Chinese, Japanese and European powers, especially Portugal and Holland.
Ayutthaya's destruction in 1767 by the Burmese was a severe blow to the Thais. However, the Burmese could not maintain control of the Kingdom. In 1767, King Taksin, ruling from the new capital in thon Buri, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, regained control of the Kingdom. In 1782, Phra Bat Somdet Phra Phuttha Yotfa Chulalok Maharat, the first ruler of the Chakri Dynasty, known as King Rama I, moved the Royal Capital across the river to Bangkok.
Two Chakri monarchs, King Mongkut (Rama IV), who reigned between 1851 and 1868 and his son King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who reigned from 1869 to 1910, saved Thailand from Western colonization through brilliant diplomacy and selective modernization. It is largely due to these two Monarchs that Thailand was able to retain dominance over its own destiny without the interference of foreign powers.
Today, Thailand has Constitutional Monarchy. Since 1932, Thai Kings, including the present monarch, H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, have exercised headed by a prime minister and their judicial powers through the law courts.

Religion
Theravada Buddhism, a descendant from Dvaravati Buddhism of the 1oth century, is the professed religion of more than 95 percent of all Thais, and casts a strong influence on daily life. Thailand is the only country on the planet to successfully incorporate this form of Buddhism into its legal and moral structure.
Besides molding morality, providing social cohesion and offering spiritual support, Buddhism has provided an incomparable artistic foundation. As Christianity influenced medieval European cathedrals, Thailand's Buddhism has inspired innumerable artistic multi-roofed temples to honor Lord Buddha.
Another reason for Buddhism's strength is that Thai Buddhist families seriously study Buddha's teachings. It has long been a custom for Buddhist males over the age of 20 to be ordained for a period ranging from five days to three months. This usually occurs during the annual Rain Retreat, a three-month period during the rainy season when all monks forego travel and remain within their temples.
Besides sustaining monastic communities, Thai temples have traditionally served other purposes, such as the village shelter, village news centre, employment information centre, school, hospital, dispensary and community centre. This gives Thai temples vital roles in Thai society.
The Thais respect all religions. Thus, sizeable minorities of Muslims, Christians, Hindus and Sikhs freely practice their respective faiths in Thailand, under the King's patronage.

Language
Spoken and written Thai remain largely incomprehensible to the casual visitor, as it stands alone from all other forms of dialect. However, English is widely understood in most tourist areas, particularly Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Phuket where it is an important language for commerce. English is spoken in most hotels, shops, restaurants, banks, international offices and car rental offices in major destinations. Road signs throughout the country are in both Thai and English.

Formalities and Other Regulations

Passports
All visitors entering Thailand must possess a valid passport.
Visas/Immigration Information
I. According to the Interior Ministerial Office, the following is a list of countries, which have concluded an agreement on the exemption of visa requirement for holders of diplomatic or official passport or service/special passport with Thailand. And permitted to stay for 30 and 90 days.
List of countries:
90 Days: Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Nepal, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Singapore, Slovak Republic, South Africa, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey
30 Days: Mongolia, China, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar
II. The following is a list of countries which have concluded agreement on the exemption of visa requirement for holders of diplomatic, official and ordinary
passports with Thailand and permitted to stay for 90 days.
List of countries: Republic of Peru
III. The following is a list of countries which have exempted visa requirement for holders of diplomatic and official passport and permitted to stay for not
exceeding 90 days.
List of countries: Finland, Sweden, Denmark
IV. The follwing is a list of countries which have concluded an agreement on the exemption of visa requirement for holders of national passport with Thailand and permitted to stay for 30 and 90 days.
90 Days: Brazil, New Zealand, Republic of Korea
30Days: Hong Kong, Socialist Republic of Vietnam

Tourist Visa Exemption
According to the Interior Ministerial Office, tourists from 57 countries do not require a visa when entering Thailand if they stay in the kingdom does not exceed 30 days. The tourist must possess a minimum living expense of 10,000 Baht per person or 20,000 Baht per family, respectively.
List of 57 Countries: Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Djibouti, Egypt, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mauritania, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, united Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States of America, Vanuatu, Western Samoa, Yemen

Temporary Tourist Visa: Visa on Arrival
According to the Interior Ministerial Office, tourists from 90 countries do not require a visa when entering Thailand if their stay in the kingdom does not exceed 15 days. The tourist must possess a minimum living expense of 10,000 Baht per person or 20,000 Baht per family, respectively.
In addition, the applicant must be able to produce a valid fully paid ticket usable within 15 dates from date of entry. A visa on arrival is provided at 12 designated international checkpoints and applicants must produce the application form to which his/her recent photograph (2.5 inches) is attached. The application fee is 300 Baht. Visitors who enter the Kingdom with Visa on Arrival generally cannot file an application for extension-of-stay except in special cases of illness, which prevents them from traveling. However, they can submit an application at the Office of Immigration Bureau, Immigration Division 1, Soi Suan Phlu, Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok 10120. Tel: 66-2287-1740
Website: www.imm.police.go.th

List of 96 Countries: Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Colombia, Comoros, Costa Rica, Cote d'Ivoire, Croatia, Czech republic, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, India, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Mauritius, Moldova, Monaco, Nauru, Niger, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Romania, Russia, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Slovakia Republic, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Suriname, Swaziland, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vatican City State, Venezuela, Zaire, Zambia, Zimbabwe

The above must enter the Kingdom of Thailand by means of passenger transport, through immigration channels on the Thai-Malaysian border or by means of passenger aircraft, seagoing vessels of 500 registered tons and above, rail, bus, taxi, tour coach or hired motorcycle and must possess:
1. A fully paid ticket or supporting document belonging to the vehicle owner of the operator of the vehicle, which is to be used for leaving the Kingdom of Thailand within the period specified, or
2. Documentary evidence of the owner or operator of the vehicle showing a fully paid reservation for the departure from the Kingdom of Thailand within the period specified.
Exempted from this regulation are Malaysian nationals entering the Kingdom of Thailand by bus, hire car, tour coach or hired motorcycle through immigration checkpoints or border checkpoints on Malaysian soil. They do not require ongoing travel documents or any of the travel documents mentioned in items 1 and 2.

People in the above-mentioned conditions do not require an entry visa and are permitted to remain in the Kingdom of Thailand for a period of 30 to 90 days (depending upon nationality) from the day of entry. They are not permitted to extend their stay, unless under unforeseen circumstances such as illness or delay of aircraft departure. Visitors wishing to stay longer than 30 or 90 days in the Kingdom of Thailand are advised to apply to Thai diplomatic missions in their respective countries. In the event that there are no Thai diplomatic missions, they may apply in neighboring countries, or forward their request and supporting evidence to Thailand Immigration Division, Soi Suan Phlu, Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok 10120, Thailand. Tel: 66-2287-3101-10

Visitors to the Kingdom of Thailand may obtain visas upon arrival at the following ports of entry:
1. Don Muang International Airport, Bangkok.
2. Chiang Mai International Airport, Chiang Mai
3. Phuket International Airport, Phuket
4. Hat Yai International Airport, Songkhla
5. U-Taphao Airport, Rayong
6. Mae Sai Immigration Checkpoint, Chiang Rai
7. Chiang Saen Immigration Checkpoint, Chiang Rai
8. Chiang Khong Immigration Checkpoint, Chiang Rai
9. Betong Immigration Checkpoint, Yala
10. Sadao Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani
11. Samui Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani
12. Sukhotai International Airport, Sukhotai

Visitors must also have a fully paid airline ticket, which enables them to travel out of the Kingdom of Thailand within the stipulated time period.

Note: A visa-size photograph and the necessary fee must accompany the visa application form.

Validity of Visas
All visas must be utilized within 90 days from the date of issue.

Length of Stay
Transit Visa 30 days
Tourist Visa 90 days
Non-Immigrant Visa 90 days

Visa Long Stay: Visa Application for Temporary Residents under the "O-A" Code
1. Qualifications for the Applicant:
1.1 An alien being 50 years of age and above (on the date of submitting an application)
1.2 Not being a person prohibited from entering the Kingdom.
1.3 Having no criminal record against the security of Thailand and the country of his/her nationality, or the country of his/her residence.
1.4 Having the nationality of or the residence in the country where his/her application is submitted.
1.5 Not having prohibitive diseases as indicated in the Ministerial Regulation No.14 (B.E. 2535)
2. Documents for the Application:
2.1 A passport valid not less than one year and a half.
2.2 Three copies of a visa application form (with visa-size photos)
2.3 A personal data form
2.4 A copy of a bank statement showing a deposit at the amount equal to no less than 800,000 Baht, or an income certificate (an original copy) with a monthly salary of no less than 65,000 Baht, or a deposit account plus a monthly income that total not less than 800,000 a year.
2.5 In the case of the bank statement, a letter of guarantee from the bank (an original copy) is to be shown as well.
2.6 Verification stating that the applicant has no criminal record issued from the country of his/her nationality or residence (the verification shall be valid for no more than 3 months).
2.7 A medical certificate issued from the country where the application is submitted, showing no prohibitive diseases as indicated in the Ministerial Regulation No.14 (B.E. 2535) (the certificate shall be valid for no more than 3 months).
2.8 In the case that the applicant wishes to have his/her spouse stay together in the Kingdom but he spouse does not qualify for the O-A code visa, their marriage certificate shall also be produced as evidence. (The spouse will be considered for the visa for Temporary Residents under the "O" Code).
3. Recommendations for the Alien while Staying in the Kingdom
3.1 When completing the stay of 90 days in Kingdom, the alien shall report to the competent authority and repeat it every 90 days with the immigration officer in the alien's residential area if there is no immigration control there.
(In order to report to the competent authority by mail, the alien shall do as follows:
The report Form (To Mo 47 Form) together with a copy of the passenger pages showing the alien's photo, personal details, and the latest arrival visa stamp as well as self-addressed envelop with postage affixed, shall be forwarded 7 days before the due date, by acknowledgement of receipt mail to the Immigration Bureau, Sathon Tao Road, Sathon District, Bangkok 10120.
In the case of conducting any following reports, the Reply Form for the previous report shall be enclosed as well.)
3.2 At the end of the one-year stay, the alien who wishes to extend hi/her stay shall submit a request to extend hi/her stay shall submit a request for the extended period at the Immigration Bureau with documented evidence of money transfer, or a deposit account in the Kingdom, or an income certificate, at the amount of no less than 800,000 Baht, or an income certificate plus a deposit account that totals no less than 800,000 Baht a year.
3.3 If the alien's spouse wishes to extend his/her stay as well, the marriage certificate shall be produced.

Visa Extension
Application for a 15-day extension of stay for any visa is possible at the Immigration Office at Soi Suan Phlu, Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok. Tel: 66-2287-3101, 66-2287-3110. The fee is 500 Baht.

Re-Entry Permits
Application fee for a single re-entry permit is 500 Baht. A multiple re-entry permit (per visa) is 1,000 Baht.

Exit Visa
Not required.

Passenger Service Charge Exemption
Foreign nationals wishing to take a quick tour of Bangkok or travel outside of Bangkok International Airport and return for their onward flight within 12 hours of arrival, may apply an exemption of the 500 baht airport tax through the following procedures:
1. Fill in the Passenger Service Charge Exemption Requisition Form at the service unit of Terminal 1 (before passing through immigration points).
2. Present the following documentation:
-Passenger Service Charge Exemption Requisition Form
-Passport
-Valid Airline Ticket (departure flight must be within the 12-hour period limit)
-Completed Arrival/Departure Card (To Mo 6 Form)
3. Obtain an official signature and stamp at service counters before passing immigration at arrival points.
4. Keep these documents during the transit stopover and present them upon departure, before passing immigration at departure points.
Note: applicable only to visa-exempt and visa-on-arrival nationals.

Health Regulations
No inoculations or vaccinations are required unless the foreign national is coming from or passing through a contaminated area. Yellow fever certificates are required for those coming from the following countries: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Angola, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Mauritania, Mali, Nigeria, Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo.

Note: Please check current regulations with your health office.

Customs Regulations
Prohibited items
All narcotics and obscene literature, which includes picture and written articles, are prohibited. Narcotic offenders shall face severe penalty including a possible death sentence for possession, consumption and/or the manufacture of drugs.
Firearms
Importation of firearms and ammunition can be done only after a permit has been obtained from the Police Department of Registration Office.
Website: www.tourist.police.go.th
Personal Affects
A reasonable amount of clothing for personal use, toiletries, and professional instruments maybe brought into the Kingdom of Thailand free of duty.
Tobacco and Alcoholic Beverages
Cigarettes, cigars, or smoking tobacco each or in total must not exceed 250 grams in weight. But cigarettes must not exceed 200 in quantity. One liter each of wine or spirits may be brought in free of duty. Personal iems may not exceed 10,000 Baht.
Plants and Animals
Certain species of fruits, vegetables and plants are prohibited. Contact the Agricultural Regulatory Division, Department of agriculture, Bang Khen, Bangkok. Tel: 66-2579-76 or Website: www.doa.go.th

Permission for entry of animals arriving by air can be obtained at the airport. If by sea, application must be made at the Department for Livestock Development in Bangkok. Tel: 66-2251-5136 or 66-2252-6944. Vaccination certificates are required.

Export of Antiques and Art Objects from The Kingdom of Thailand
1. Buddha images, Bodhisattva images, or fragments there of a forbidden to be taken from Thailand (with exception of items being used for worship by Buddhists, for cultural exchange or study purposes).
2. 2. A license must be obtained from The Fine Arts Department in order for such objects of antiquity or objects of art, irrespective of whether they are original or reproductions, may be taken out of the country.
3. Procedure for license application:
a) Photograph the frontal view of all objects and make two postcard-size prints (not more than five pieces in one photograph).
b) Make a photocopy of the applicant's passport.
c) The objects, together with the photographs and applicant's passport and photocopy, must be taken to the national Museum Division, Bangkok, or The Chiang Mai National Museum, Chiang Mai, or The Songkhla National Museum, Songkhla.
This must be done at least four to seven days before the date of shipment or departure of the applicant in order to process the application and for inspection. For further information contact the Bangkok National Museum at Tel: 66-2226-1661

Currency and Exchange Services
The Thai unit of currency, the baht, is not fixed to any other currency, but rather fluctuates with world market rates.
The Baht is divided into 100 Satang. Copper colored coins are valued at 25 and 50 Satang. Silver colored coins are demonstrated in 1 and 5 Baht denominations. Silver and copper color coins represent 10 baht denominations. Banknotes are valued at 10 Baht, 20 Baht, 50 Baht, 100 Baht, 500 Baht and 1000 Baht.

Traveler's Cheques/ Cheques/ Credit Cards/Banks
US-dollar traveler's cheques can be cashed at provincial banks and authorized money-changers. Traveler's cheques are best redeemed in Bangkok where the rates are the best. Generally, hotel rates are lower than those offered by banks and authorized moneychangers.
Major credit cards (American Express, Diners Club, JCB, Master Card and Visa) are accepted at all major banks, restaurants, hotels and shops.
Thai and foreign banks provide a standard service nationwide. Office hours are 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except on bank and public holidays.
Major banks such as Bangkok Bank, Thai Danu Bank, Thai Farmers Bank, Krung Thai Bank and Siam Commercial bank operate currency exchange centers in most tourist areas from 7.00a.m to 9.00a.m., daily, including holidays.
Many first-class hotels provide 24-hour money exchange services, but only for major currencies such as American British, German and Swiss. Traveler's cheques are generally accepted at all hotels.

Exchange Controls
1. Foreign tourists may freely bring to the Kingdom of Thailand foreign banknotes or other types of foreign exchange. Upon leaving Thailand, a foreign tourist may freely take with them the foreign means of payment they brought in, with the exception that foreign notes or coins do not exceed the equivalent of US$10,000, or the amount declared in writing to customs upon arrival. Taking a foreign currency that exceeds US$10,000 into or out of Thailand must be declared at the Customs Office upon arrival or departure. Failure to do so may lead to arrest, confiscation of the excess amount involved and /or prosecution.
2. Traveler's can take a maximum of 50,000 baht per person out of the country without authorization Thai currency up to 500,000 Baht can be taken to neighboring countries without authorization. These countries are Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
3. Foreign visitors may bring personal affects and other goods that are not prohibited by current customs regulations. Other than personal affect5s, visitors are also allowed to take out merchandise bought from duty free shops, including precious stones, gold and platinum ornaments.
4. Non residents are allowed to open foreign currency accounts with any commercial bank on Thailand. As a special gesture to non-residents, no restrictions are imposed on the maintenance of and withdrawal from the account, as long as the funds originate from abroad.
5. Foreign visitors may convert Thai baht into foreign currency for the purposes of outbound travel so long as they present evidences such as currency exchange receipt, a valid airline ticket and passport to any major bank.
Note: As of march 5th 2002 the currency exchange rate is: 1US dollar =43.62 baht. Please check any currency exchange counter or Thai bank for the current exchange rate.

How to get to Thailand

Transportation
By Air
Bangkok is Thailand's major gateway. Most visitors arrive at Don Muang International Airport (Bangkok) because it is directly connected to Europe, Asia, North America and Australia by daily flights aboard the world's major airlines.
Further international flights, mainly from Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong, land at Phuket and Hat Yai International Airports in the south and Chiang Mai in the north.
By Rail
A regular rail service links Singapore and Bangkok via Kuala Lumpur and Butterworth in Malaysia. This service leaves daily and also connects with many major southern Thai towns
By Road
1. From Malaysia, it is possible to enter Thailand through a number of crossings n Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces.
2. From Lao PDR, it is possible to enter Thailand through Nong Khai, Chiang Saen, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan and Chong Mek.
3. From Cambodia, it is possible to enter Thailand through Aranyaprathet in Sa Kaeo province and Ko Kong in Trat province.
4. From Myanmar, it is possible to enter Thailand through Mae Sai and Mae Sot.
By Sea
There are no regular steamship connections to Thailand. Cargo ships calling at Bangkok's Khlong Toei Port sometimes have passenger cabin facilities.
Cruise Ships commonly call at Laem Chabang Port (roughly 2 hours south of Bangkok) from Vietnam and Singapore. Contact a travel agent for details.

Travel within Thailand
By Air
Flying in Thailand is both inexpensive and convenient. Several air carriers such as Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Air Andaman and Angel Air fly throughout Thailand to international and domestic airports in 26 cities throughout Thailand. Reservations may be secured through airline offices, hotels or travel agencies from overseas or upon arrival in Thailand.
Thai Airways also organizes Royal Orchid Holiday Tour packages. Passengers may also take advantage of Thai's. Further details may be obtained on this website: www.thaiairways.com

By Rail
Rail journeys in Thailand are efficient, inexpensive and comfortable by Asian standards. An extensive rail network serves Thailand using Bangkok as its hub. Three lines connect Chiang Mai (Northern Line), Nong Khai (Northeastern Line) and Singapore via Butterworth and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia (Southern Line). Recently, the rail line between Bangkok and Aranyaprathet on the Cambodian border was opened. Domestic express trains comprise first, second and third-class carriages. Slower trains used on shorter journeys may only have third-class seating.
Sate Railway of Thailand organizes one and two days economy tours to various destinations on the weekends and holidays. Railway schedules can be obtained from bangkok's main railway station at Hualamphong. Train tickets of all classes can be purchased 90 days in advance at principle stations and at the Advance Booking Office at Kualamphong from 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. Tel: 66-2225-0300
Fax: 66-2225-3801 Telex: 72242TH
By Road
A modern highway system stretches to all points of the country. Domestic air-conditioned buses are one of the most frequently used modes of transportation. Inexpensive and reliable, buses frequently leave or stop at all major centers. There are three major bus terminals in Bangkok:
" Northern/Northeastern Bus terminal at Kamphaeng Phet Road.
Tel: 66-2936-2841-66
" Southern Bus terminal at Pinklao Nakhon Chaisi Road
Tel: 66-2435-1199, 66-2435-1200
" Eastern Bus Terminal at Sukhumvit Soi 62
Tel: 66-2391-8097, 66-2391-2504
Travel Inside Bangkok
" Public Transport
Public buses are plentiful and inexpensive, with a 3.5 Baht minimum and 20 Baht maximum fare for all places within metropolitan Bangkok.
Air-conditioned buses within Bangkok have minimum and maximum fares 6, 8 and 18 Baht, respectively. Red and grey air-conditioned microbuses for longer urban journeys cost 20 baht.
A bus route map can be obtained from most hotels and bookshops.
" Taxis and Tuks Tuks
Hotel taxis have fixed fares. Public taxis are air-conditioned, comfortable and have starting fares of 35 Baht for the first 3 kilometers and approximately % baht for every additional kilometer. Be sure the driver resets everytime you enter the vehicle.
Tuks Tuks, three-wheeled taxis, are a symbol of Thailand. They are popular for short journeys and can cost anywhere from 20 Baht to 150 baht, depending where one choose to go. Important: Fares must be bargained for before the journey is undertaken as there is no meter.
" Motorcycle Taxis
The fastest way to plod through the traffic congestion of Thailand's major cities is by motorcycle taxi. Look for the driver with a colored vest. Fares are negotiated before departure. Hold on tight.
" River taxis
There are many types of boats that navigate the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. Private "cigarettes boats" are fast and available for tours of the city's huge canal system. A 2-hour private tour runs about 500 Baht. Public river boats run from dawn till dusk from Khlong Toei to as far north as Nonthaburi for 15 Baht. The journey takes over an hour. Smaller trips between other landings can cost as little as 5 Baht.
" Sky Train
The Bangkok Mass transit System Public Company Limited (BTS) is an elevated electric tr4ain that runs on two lines- Silom and Sukhumvit line, with an interchange station at Siam Square. The BTS is an excellent way to stay above Bangkok's traffic congestion. Fares run from 10 Baht to 40 Baht depending on the length of the journey. Trains run daily from 6.00 a.m. to midnight. BTS has a free Shuttle Bus service to serve 5 major routes with service hours from 6.30 to 22.30 daily.
Website: www.bts.co.th

Useful Information

Airport facilities
Don Muang international Airport (Bangkok) is located 22km north of Bangkok. There are two international terminals and one domestic terminal. Airport directory assisitance can be reached at Tel: 66-2535-1111.
Website: www.airportthai.or.th
" Limousine Service
Couch and limousine services connecting to Bangkok are located at the Arrivals Hall on the ground floor of the International Passenger Terminal. All vehicles are air-conditioned.
1. Mini-Bus to ay hotel in Bangkok, 100 Baht per person
2. Shuttle bus to Asia Hotel and Viengtai Hotel, 60 Baht per person.
3. Sedan to downtown Bangkok, 300 Baht per trip.
4. Bus to Pattaya, 180 baht per person
5. Sedan to Pattaya, 1,500 Baht per trip.

Taxi service
Public taxis are available for hire at the authorized public taxi stand, located next to the Meeting Point south of the Arrivals Hall in the International Passenger terminal. Taxis are only permitted to pick up passengers at these authorized stand and are nor allowed to offer their services to passengers in the terminal building. Fares range between 50-300 baht per trip depending on the destination. A 50 Baht service charge is automatically added to the meter for all taxis hired from the airport. As a safety measure, all taxis operating from the Meeting Point are catalogued by the Airports Authority of Thailand to ensure they are properly licensed. No tip is necessary.

Bus services
Air-conditioned and regular buses travel downtown from Bangkok international Airport on a regular basis. Passengers wishing to take the bus can do so by walking to Vibhavadi Rangsit Highway to the public bus stop. There is a train station located here as well. Regular buses from the airport to town are buses numbered 29, 59, and 95. Air-conditioned buses are numbered 504, 510, 513 and 29. Fares are collected on board. Regular buses, which are not air-conditioned, can be uncomfortable and crowded especially during rush hours and will therefore have very little or no room for luggage.

Passenger Departure Tax
International travelers leaving the Kingdom of Thailand must pay a departure tax of 500 baht. Domestic flights include a 30 Baht airport tax that is automatically included in the purchase of an airline ticket.
" Baggage service (Lost and Found)
A Lost and Found counter, in the Arrivals Lounge, is manned around the clock. If you leave anything on your aircraft, please contact the airline immediately. Tel: 66-2535-2173 or 66-2535-2811-12

Airline offices
Some 50 airlines maintain offices in Bangkok. A complete listing can be found in the English edition of the Bangkok Telephone Directory's Yellow Pages.

Information and pictures courtesy of Tourism Thailand.