1. Introduction
Thailand, the land of smiles, is one of the world's most popular travel destinations. Thailand has a lot to offer, whether you enjoy the beautiful white beaches, turquoise waters, bustling cities or historic temples. It is always good to travel prepared. In this blog post, we want to share important information and addresses, what documents are needed, health conditions in Thailand, about safety in Thailand and much more. This will help you get the most out of your holiday. As this is a general blog post, it is always useful to check the current information for your own country beforehand.
2. Important Addresses and Documents
Make sure you always have the right documents with you. Start in time to find out which documents you need for which country and whether the documents you have are still valid. Sometimes documents need to be valid for longer than the time you are staying in the country. Make sure you have at least the following with you:
Visa: Check in advance what type of visa you need. For tourists, a free 30-day visa is often available on arrival. For longer stays, you can apply for a tourist visa at the Thai embassy.
Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months on arrival in Thailand.
Address registration: Upon arrival in Thailand, you will need to register with your accommodation. Immigration officials can check if this has been done correctly.
Useful Addresses:
Thai Embassy in the Netherlands: Laan Copes van Cattenburch 123, The Hague
Dutch Embassy in Bangkok: 15 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok
Thai Embassy in Belgium: Waterloosteenweg 876, 1000 Brussels
Belgian Embassy in Bangkok: 16th floor - Sathorn Square Building - 98 North Sathorn Road - Silom Sub-District, Bangrak District,10500 Bangkok
Important telephone numbers:
General emergency number: 191.
(Tourist) police: 1155.
Medical emergencies Bangkok region: 1646.
Medical emergencies Thailand: 1669.
3. Health and vaccinations
Good health is important for an enjoyable trip. Vaccinations against hepatitis A, DTP and typhoid fever are recommended. Certain areas, such as jungle or rural areas, may require malaria prophylaxis. Always check if you are going to an area where vaccinations are recommended.
Health tips:
Drink only bottled water.
Do not eat food that has been left unrefrigerated for a long time.
Use insect repellent to prevent dengue fever.
Medical Emergencies:
Thailand has excellent hospitals, especially in big cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Useful addresses are:
Bumrungrad International Hospital, Bangkok
Chiang Mai Ram Hospital, Chiang Mai
Important phone numbers are:
Medical emergencies Bangkok region: 1646.
Medical emergencies Thailand: 1669.
4. Security and drug policy
Thailand is generally a safe country, but good preparation is essential. Be alert for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and exercise caution when using scooters or motorbikes.
Drug policy:
Thailand has a zero-tolerance policy on drugs. Possession,use or sale of drugs can lead to severe penalties, including long prison sentences. Possession of some types of hard drugs can even lead to the death penalty. Avoid situations where you may come into contact with these.
Medication:
If you use medication and need to take it with you on holiday, check carefully how to store it. If in doubt, we advise you to contact your doctor or pharmacist. It is always advisable to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist which medications you can take with you to Thailand and for which medications you need a European Medical Passport or a self-declaration of medication. Start this in good time.
5. Homosexuality in Thailand
Thailand is known as a tolerant country for LGBTQ+ travellers. Homosexuality is legal and there are many LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations and bars, especially in Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. Be aware, however, that in more conservative areas things are sometimes viewed differently. Always respect local norms and values.
6. Money matters: Currency and Payments
Thailand's currency is the Thai baht (฿). Always check the current exchange rate. ATMs in Thailand are widespread and credit cards are accepted in many places. Keep in mind the following tips:
Always carry some cash with you for small purchases.
Change money at authorised bureaux de change, such as SuperRich.
Pay attention to exchange rates to avoid unnecessary charges.
7. Toilets and Hygiene
Toilets in Thailand range from western styles to squat toilets, especially in rural areas. Always bring tissues or toilet paper as these are often not available. Hand sanitiser can also come in handy.
8. Tourism Police and Emergency Numbers
Tourism police in Thailand are specially trained to help foreign travellers. They often speak English and can be reached by calling 1155. Other important numbers are:
General emergency number: 191
Ambulance and medical assistance: 1669
Tourism police: 1155
9. Tsunamis and natural disasters
Thailand has experienced tsunamis and floods in the past. It is important to keep an eye on weather forecasts and government warnings. Download apps such as ‘Thai Disaster Alert’ for real-time updates.
Tips:
Stay away from beaches during tsunami warnings.
Know your accommodation's evacuation plans.
10. Conclusion
With this blog post, you are already on your way to a well-prepared trip to Thailand. Remember the most important addresses, get the right documents, and be aware of health and safety. Once you have everything ready for your trip, you can start making unforgettable memories.
Start your travel preparation today and enjoy your dream trip to Thailand carefree! For more tips and blog post, visit our website.
댓글