1. General
Information
Thailand, formerly
called "Siam", is a country rich in culture and natural
beauty. It has been blessed with expansive natural parks,
fertile plains, remote jungles, beaches washed by turquoise
waters, and tropical islands bathed in endless sunshine. The
country has more visible historical evidence of its past cultures
than any other country in Southeast Asia. Its history is very
complex, involving the invasion of many different peoples,
the rule of different kings, the establishment of various
kingdoms and the interaction of diverse cultures. The period
of time from the mid 1800's until now is probably the most
important in terms of the formation of modern day Thailand.
King Mongkut, who ruled the country from 1851 to 1868, was
a well educated, ex-monk who kept Thailand safe from European
expansion. His son, Chulalongkorn, took over in 1868 and continued
the enlightenment and modernization of Thailand. King Chulalongkorn
made great strides in improving the country, however he refused
to allow his people democratic rights. This finally led to
a takeover by Thai intellectuals, along with military help,
in 1932. The name of the country was changed from Siam to
Thailand in 1939 by Prime Minister Phibun Songkhram,
mainly because he wanted to disassociate his country from
its erratic past. Translated literally, Thailand means "Free
Land".
The Thai race
was previously believed to have originated somewhere near
Mongolia, later moving southward. However, new theories based
on historical discoveries regard the northeastern part of
Thailand as the birthplace of the Thai race. Over the years,
the country has become home to many immigrants. The Thai people
have managed to preserve the traditions of their unique culture,
at the same time absorbing the practices of modern living.
Nevertheless, the combination of cultures and backgrounds
of these immigrants make Thailand an interesting and memorable
country to visit.
2.
WEATHER CONDITIONS
Thailand has
a humid, tropical climate, and is hot all year round. Summer
is from March to May with average temperatures around 93ºF
(34ºC), but the temperature can reach over 105ºF (40ºC) for
extended periods. Summer monsoons begin as the warm humid
air masses flow towards the north from the Indian Ocean. The
monsoons end in the fall when the wind reverses direction
with the dry southwesterlies. The rainy season, with periods
of sunshine, lasts from June to September, with temperatures
ranging from 80ºF to 89ºF (27ºC to 32ºC). The amount of rainfall
varies with topography. The northeast receives the least rain,
while the south is flooded during the summer months. The best
time to visit Thailand is during the cool season, from October
though February, when it is not as humid as during the summer
and rainy seasons. The average temperature is around 65ºF
to 89ºF (18ºC to 32ºC). During this season, it can be very
chilly in the north, with temperatures dropping to 44ºF (7ºC)
at night.
3.
PEOPLE AND CULTURE
Over the years,
Thailand has attracted many immigrants. The people of Thailand
share a rich ethnic diversity consisting of Thai, Mon, Khmer,
Laotian, Chinese, Malay, Persian and Indian descendants. As
a result, it is not possible to speak of a typical Thai physique.
The Thais are,
on the whole, a group of people who believe that life should
be enjoyed, but no one should infringe on others' rights.
The Thais are tolerant and hospitable, and it is easy to get
along with them. Good manners, common sense and a smile are
necessities in Thailand.
Women have considerable
influence in Thai society. Although the men's role is usually
accentuated in public, in private, all affairs such as finances
and other transactions are generally managed by women.
Monarchy and
religion are sacred in Thailand, and it is against the law
to criticize them, especially in public. Mocking the monarchy,
or joking about it, is a serious offense and is punishable
by imprisonment.
Ethnic
Groups: 75% Thai,
14% Chinese and 11% other.
Languages:
The national language is Thai. English is widely understood
in Bangkok, where it is almost the major commercial language.
English is spoken in most hotels and restaurants and at major
tourist destinations. However, taxis, small food stands and
remote areas outside Bangkok lack English education. It is
advisable to bring a Thai/English dictionary or buy one in
Bangkok if you intend on travelling outside the major cities.
Religion:
95% of the population practice Buddhism, 4% are Muslim and
the remainder are Christians, Hindus or Sikhs.
4.
LOCAL CUSTOMS
General:
The Thais are extremely tolerant and forgiving people with
an easygoing approach to life. Nevertheless, there are certain
moral, social and religious customs visitors should know and
observe to avoid embarrassment and misunderstanding.
Never lose your
temper or raise your voice, no matter how frustrating the
situation is. Only patience, humor and "jai yen" (cool heart)
yield results in Thailand.
Thais believe
that the head is the most sacred part of the body, so never
touch or pat anyone in Thailand on the head, even in the friendliest
of circumstances.
Standing over
someone, especially someone older or wiser, is considered
rude behavior since it implies social superiority. As a sign
of courtesy, lower your head as you pass a group of people.
When in doubt, watch the Thais.
The feet are
considered the lowest part of the body, so don't point at
things with your feet. When sitting down, make sure the soles
of your feet are not facing anyone.
Wearing shorts
is considered improper and low-class attire, but acceptable
for children. No matter how hot it is, long pants should be
worn in urban areas. If you are planning to visit a Buddhist
temple, dress conservatively and remember to take your shoes
off when you enter the temple.
Public display
of affection and nudity at beaches are offensive.
Never have your
picture taken with any Buddhist images. They are considered
extremely sacred, no matter what their age or condition.
Buddhist monks
must be treated with respect at all times. Women are not allowed
to touch the monks nor can the monks accept anything from
a woman's hand.
Rear seats on
buses are reserved for the monks, and other passengers have
to vacate these seats when necessary. Never stand over a seated
monk, since a monk should always remain at the highest elevation.
Business:
The Thais are not fanatical about productivity or deadlines.
Foreign visitors are often frustrated with their resistance
to the Westerners' fast-paced life.
The Thais detest
any form of conflict and will go to great pains to avoid confrontation
and preserve harmony.
Traditionally,
Thais greet each other not with a handshake but with the "wai"
(a prayer-like posture with the palms of the hands pressed
together).
Meetings are
usually held in offices, hotel lobbies and restaurants.
The Thais are
sociable and often mix business with pleasure. The person
who has extended the invitation pays for the meals or drinks.
If it isn't clear who extended the invitation, the seniormost
person at the table has the honor of paying. If you are the
only foreigner present, it is polite to offer to pay.
Avoid scheduling
a meeting after 3:30pm, as the Thais like to get an early
start on the evening rush-hour trip home.
5.
THINGS TO KNOW
Population:
56,000,000
Capital: Bangkok
Flag:
The flag of Thailand has five horizontal bands, red (top),
white, blue (double width), white and red (bottom).
Shop
Hours:
Stores are generally open Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm. Larger
shops are open from 10am to 7pm. Outdoor markets are open
early and close quite late, usually 7 days a week.
Bank
Hours:
Bank hours are open Monday-Friday 8:30am to 3:30pm. They are
generally closed Saturday and Sunday. Many banks close for
lunch.
Holidays:
- January 1 - New Year's
Day
- February 14 - Makha Bucha
(Full Moon Day)
- April 6 - Chakri Memorial
Day
- April 12-14 - Sonkran
Festival (Thai New Year)
-
This is the
biggest water fight you will ever see! The hole country
is under "water attack", so wear a T-shirt and shorts,
as you will surely be drenched!
-
May 1 -
National Labor Day
-
May 5 -
Coronation Day
-
May 13
- Wisakha Bucha (Full Moon Day)
-
July 11
- Asanaha Bucha (Full Moon Day)
-
July 12
- Buddhist Lent Day August 12 - HAM. The Queen's
Birthday October 23 - Chulalongkorn Day
-
December
5 - H.M. The King's Birthday
-
December
10 - Constitution Day
-
December
31 - New Year's Eve
Time:
Thailand has one time zone. It is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich
Mean Time. It is 14 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and
11 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time.
Tipping:
Tipping is not customary, yet is very much appreciated. If
a service charge has been added to the bill, tipping isn't
necessary.
Restaurants:
If a restaurant service charge is included, a tip is not necessary.
Taxis:
Most taxis in Bangkok use their meters. If a taxi doesn't
have a meter, fares must be agreed upon from the start. Fares
range from a minimum of 30 Baht to a maximum of 300 Baht.
"Tuk-Tuks" or three-wheel taxis are quite popular among tourists
for short journeys inside Bangkok. Fares range from 30 Baht
to 150 Baht for this means of transportation.
6.
TRAVEL TO THE COUNTRY
Airports
Don Muang International Airport
Located 14 miles (22km) north of Bangkok
Vibhavadi Rangsit Hwy.
Tel (02) 535-1301 or (02) 535-1254
Airlines
Air Canada: (02) 233-5900
Air France: (02) 233-9477
American Airlines: (02) 252-3520
Bangkok Airways: (02) 535-2498
British Airways: (02) 236-8655
Canadian Airlines: (02) 251-4521
Cathay Pacific: (02) 233-6105
China Airlines: (02) 253-4438
Continental Airlines: (02) 231-0113
Delta Airlines: (02) 237-6837
Japan Airlines: (02) 233-2440
Korean Airlines: (02) 234-9283
Philippine Airlines: (02) 233-2350
Qantas: (02) 235-9193
Singapore Airlines: (02) 236-0440
Swissair: (02) 233-2930
Thai: (02) 233-3810
TWA: (02) 233-7290
United Airlines: (02) 251-6006
Trains:
The International Express will take you from Butterworth (Penang,
Malaysia) to Hat Yai, Thailand and Bangkok without a change
of trains. There are also connecting services to or from Singapore
and Kuala Lumpur. The train, which offers only first and second-class
tickets, now operates every day. Border delays, which used
to be a problem on the trains, are less frequent.
The International
Express that departs from Singapore every morning arrives
in Kuala Lumpur by nightfall. Visitors may stay overnight
in the Malaysian capital or continue north by night train
to Butterworth (Penang). This train, which links Singapore
to Bangkok, has a romantic appeal and is probably the most
luxurious train in Southeast Asia, yet quite expensive. The
journey can be long and exhausting and may be best experienced
in shorter segments.
Buses:
The only road access into Thailand is from Malaysia. There
are occasional buses that run back and forth between countries.
The main overland border crossings into Malaysia are near
Betong in Yala Province and at Sungei Golok in Narathiwat
Province.
7.
TRAVEL WITHIN THE COUNTRY
Cars
Thailand is an outstanding country to tour with rented transport.
Traffic is moderate and manageable, except in Bangkok. Highways
are in good condition, and directional signs are often in
English. Less expensive rentals are available from local agencies,
but make sure to check the condition of the car thoroughly
before handing over your money. An international driver's
license is required, and insurance is mandatory to be able
to drive in Thailand.
Trains
An efficient rail system links major northern and northeastern
towns with the Bangkok. A southern route permits the visitor
to travel by train into Malaysia and Singapore. Domestic express
trains include first, second, and third- class cars. Slower
trains may have only third-class seats.
For more information
regarding railway schedules, contact:
Bangkok Railway Station
Tel: (02) 223-7010 or (02) 223-7020
Buses
Bus transport in Thailand is fast, clean and reasonably comfortable
for shorter journeys. Most buses provide reclining airline-style
seats and video movies. Both air-conditoned and non-air-conditioned
buses are available on major routes. The cheapest are the
ordinary coaches operated by the government bus company called
Bor Kor Sor. Air-conditioned buses operated by independent
companies are usually 30 to 70% more expensive, but complimentary
meals and transportation from your hotel to the bus terminals
are often included.
Bangkok's
Northern/Northeastern Bus Terminal
Phahonyothin Road
Air-conditioned: Tel (02) 279-4484 or (02) 279-4487
Regular: Tel (02) 271-0101 or (02) 271-0105
Bangkok's
Southern Bus Terminal
Pinklao-Nahkon Chaisri Road
Air-conditioned: Tel (02) 435-1190 or (02) 435-1200
Regular: Tel (02) 434-5558
Bangkok's
Eastern Bus Terminal
Sukhumwit Road
Air-conditioned: (02) 392-9227 or (02)391-9829
Regular: Tel (02) 391-2504 or (02) 392-2521
8.
DINING AND DRINKING
Despite influence
from the Chinese and the Indian cuisine, Thai food is distinctive.
The combination of spices, herbs and fresh ingredients makes
dining a special experience in Thailand.
Thai meals are
heavily based on rice accompanied by soup, curry and a number
of side dishes followed by dessert. Dessert would most likely
consist of fresh fruit (mangos, pineapples, coconuts, oranges,
rose apples, durians, bananas, papayas, longans, guavas or
jackfruit). Thai food blends five major tastes: sweet, sour,
salty, bitter and hot. Common spices used are: coriander,
garlic, tumeric, ginger, lemongrass, cardaman, basil and pandanus.
The hot ingredients are chilies and pepper. Accompanying most
meals are shrimp paste, fish sauce and tamarind sauce.
At the table,
all dishes are served at the same time. The idea is to take
a spoonful of rice and top it with a spoonful of one of the
dishes; the foods are then eaten one by one in this combination.
Chopsticks are generally not used for eating Thai food.
Traditionally,
Thai food is not served with alcohol. At an informal meal,
though, beer or spirits may be served.
Soft drinks in
Thailand are widely available and inexpensive, as is bottled
water. It is not advisable to drink tap water. Beer in the
country is good but fairly expensive as it is heavily taxed
by the government. Singha, the most popular brand, costs Bht
25 to Bht 30 for a small bottle and Bht 45 to Bht 55 for a
large one. The most popular spirit among Thais is Mekong,
a local cane whiskey that you can drink straight or with mixers.
It is rather sweet for the Western palate, but it is the cheapest
form of alcohol.
9.
ENTERTAINMENT
Cinemas in Thailand
are inexpensive, with daily scheduled showings and matinees
on weekends and holidays. There are a number of cinemas that
show American or French movies.
Thai classical
dances are very elegant and considered to be the country's
highest form of art. Influenced by the great Indian epic called
Ramayana, the country's famous masked dance drama or "khon"
is a form of entertainment that requires strict discipline
from the performer. Nowadays, khon performances are very rare,
but there are occasional performances at the National Theater.
Sometimes performances are held at several Thai restaurants
catering to tourists. "Lakhon" and "likay" are very famous
dances similar in costume and movements to khon but without
the use of face masks.
Thailand bosts
the top night life in the world. Bars, karaoke clubs, and
outdoor restaurants are open till the early morning hours.
One of these areas is "Potpong", right in downtown Bangkok.
Here is a red light district with class, including a night
market, go-go bars, small shops and restaurants. Potpong is
good fun for male and female alike, as the foreigners and
Thais intermingle in a fun party like attitude. Don't feel
timid about coming here, since many foreigners attend this
nightly event, many times outnumbering the Thais.
10.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Police:
191
Tourist Police: 195
Fire:
199
Ambulance: (02) 252-2171
International
Access Code: Call directory assistance:13 (Bangkok), and
183 (other) to speak with an English-speaking operator.
Country Code:
66
City Codes:
Bangkok: 02
Chiang Mai: 053
Pattaya: 038
Phuket: 076
Koh Samui: 077
Hat Yai: 074
When calling
from within the same city, delete the city code from the number.
When calling to another city within Thailand, use the entire
city code. When calling from outside Thailand, delete the
first digit (0) from the city code.
11.
VISITORS INFORMATION
Tourism Authority of Thailand
(TAT)
Tourist Assistance Center
|
Le Concorde Building
202 Ratchadapisek Road,
Huay Kwang, Bangkok 10310,
Thailand
Tel: (662) 6941222
Fax: (662) 6941220-1
TAT Airport
Office
Arrival Lounge
Bangkok International Airport
Vibhavadi Ragsit Road
Bangkok 10210
Tel (02) 523-8972 or Tel (02) 523-8973
Other TAT
offices:
Cha-am: Tel (032) 471502 Chiang Mai: Tel (053) 248604 or (053)
248607
Chiang Rai: Tel (053) 717433
Hat Yai: Tel (074) 243747
Kanchanaburi: Tel (034) 511200
Khon Kaen: Tel (043) 244498 or (043) 244499 Nakhon Ratchasima:
Tel (044) 243751
Nakhon Si Thammarat: Tel (075) 356356
Pattayà: Tel (038) 428750
Phitsanulok: Tel (055) 252742 or (055) 252743
Phuket: Tel (076) 211036 or (076) 212213 Surat Thani: Tel
(077) 281828
Ubon Ratchathani: Tel (045) 243770 or (045) 243771
Tourism Authority
of Thailand
12th Floor, Royal Exchange Bldg.
56 Pitt Street
Sydney, 2000
Australia
Tel (02) 247-7549
Office National
du Tourisme de Thailand
90, av des Champs Elysées
75008 Paris
France
Tel (01) 4562-8656
Thailandisches
Fremdenverkehrsburo
Bethmannstrasse 58
D-6000 Frankfurt
Germany
Tel (069) 295704
Ente Nazionale
per il Turismo Thailandese
Via Barberini, 50
00187 Roma
Italy
Tel (06) 487-3479
Tourism Authority
of Thailand
Hibiya Mitsui Bldg.
1-2 Yuracucho 1-chome
Chyada-ku, Tokyo
Japan
Tel (03) 3580-6776
Tourism Authority
of Thailand
Rm. #2003 20th Flr.
Coryo Daeyungak Center Bldg.
25-5 , 1-Ka, Chungmu-Ro
Chung-ku, Seoul
South Korea
Tel (02) 779-5418
Tourism Authority
of Thailand
2B Central Commercial Bldg.
16-18 Nanking Wast Road
Section 4, Taipei
Taiwan
Tel (02) 778-2735
Tourism Authority
of Thailand
49 Albermarle Street
London WIX3FE
United Kingdom
Tel (071) 499-7679
USA:
Tourism Authority of Thailand 5 World Trade Center,
Suite 3443
New York, NY
Tel 212-432-0433
Tourism Authority
of Thailand
3440 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1100
Los Angeles, CA
Tel 213-382-2353
Tourism Authority
of Thailand
303 East Wacker Drive, Suite 400
Chicago, IL
Tel 312-819-3990
12.
USEFUL PHRASES
Yes - Chái
No - Mâi chái
Thank you - Khàwp khun
No, thank you - Mâi ao khàwp khun
Hello - Sa-wàt dee
How are you? - Sabaay dee mai?
I'm fine - Sabàay dee
Excuse me - Khãw thôht
Please - Garuna
When? - Mêu-arai?
Today - Wan nee
Tomorrow - Phoong nee
How much? - Thâo rai?
I do not understand - Mâi khâo jai
