Climate

Thailand lies within the humid tropics and the weather remains hot throughout the whole year. Temperatures range from 29°C – 35°C (84.2°F – 95°F). There are three seasons in Thailand; namely the cool season (November to March), the hot season (April to May) and the rainy season (June and October).

Clothing

Light, loose clothing is the best. Sweaters are needed during the cool season evenings. Jackets and ties are required in some restaurants and nightclubs. Neat clothing is a must for entering temples or palaces.

Currency

The country's currency is Thai Baht.

Customs

All visitors must complete the Customs Declaration Form. Visitors with nothing to declare can proceed to the Green Channel, while those with goods to declare must proceed to the Red Channel. Import and Export of certain goods is prohibited such as narcotics, pornographic materials, etc.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied in Bangkok at 220 volts, 50 cycles A.C.

Emergency Call Numbers

Health

Drugstores and clinics are available in Bangkok. Tap water is treated to varying degrees so it is advisable to drink bottled water. Most hotels and restaurants have filtration systems for water.

Local Area Information

The capital of the Kingdom of Thailand, Bangkok resides a population of 8 – 10 million people. Bangkok covers an area of 1,500 square kilometres of Thailand, forming the largest city and more than ten times the size of the second largest city of Thailand.

Mobile Phones

Network in Bangkok is GSM.

Public Phones

Most public phones accept coins in Baht and phonecards which can be purchased at major newsagent and bookstores. International phone calls can be made at most public phones with International phonecards.

Shopping & Business Hours

Shops generally open from 8:00 a.m – 9:00 p.m 7 days a week. Department stores open later at 10:00 a.m.

• Banks: Open from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.
• Commercial & government offices: Open from 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.

Taxes

There is a 7% VAT added in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and department stores.

Time Zone

GMT +7.

Tipping

Tipping is not a must but it has become a practice to tip housekeeping staff, tour guides, etc. All major restaurants and hotels will include a 10% service charge, if not, tipping is up to one's preferences.

Visa

Visitors entering Thailand must hold a valid passport or travelling documents and are permitted one-month visits. Extension of stay can be applied at the Immigration Department in Bangkok.