Travel Information
Thailand
Thailand is a wondrous kingdom, featuring Buddhist temples, exotic wildlife, and spectacular islands. Along with a fascinating history and a unique culture that includes delectable Thai food and massage, Thailand features a modern capital city, and friendly people who epitomize Thailand's "land of smiles" reputation.
Thailand is a country that lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Burma. Its maritime boundaries include Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand to the southeast and Indonesia and India in the Andaman Sea to the southwest.
The country is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy with King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth king of the House of Chakri, who has reigned since 1946, making him the world's longest-serving current head of state and the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history.The king is officially titled Head of State, the Head of the Armed Forces, an Upholder of the Buddhist religion, and the Defender of all Faiths. The largest city in Thailand is Bangkok, the capital, which is also the country's center of political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities. Thailand is the world's 50th largest country in terms of total area, with a surface area of approximately 513,000 km2, and the 21st most-populous country, with approximately 64 million people. About 75% of the population is ethnically Thai, 14% is of Chinese origin, and 3% is ethnically Malay; the rest belong to minority groups including Mons, Khmers and various hill tribes. There are approximately 2.2 million legal and illegal migrants in Thailand. Thailand has also attracted a number of expatriates from developed countries.The country's official language is Thai. Its primary religion is Buddhism, which is practiced by around 95% of all Thais.
Thailand experienced rapid economic growth between 1985 and 1995 and is a newly industrialized country with tourism, due to well-known tourist destinations such as Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Ko Samui, and exports contributing significantly to the economy.
Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital, largest urban area and primary city of Thailand. Known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, or Krung Thep, meaning "city of angels" for short, it was a small trading post at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River during the Ayutthaya Kingdom. It came to the forefront of Siam when it was given the status as the capital city in 1768 after the burning of Ayutthaya. However, the current Rattanakosin Kingdom did not begin until 1782 when the capital was moved across the river by Rama I after the death of King Taksin. The Rattanakosin capital is now more formally called "Phra Nakhon", pertaining to the ancient boundaries in the metropolis' core and the name Bangkok now incorporates the urban build-up since the 18th century which has its own public administration and governor.
People
The population of Thailand comprises of roughly 65 million citizens, the majority of whom are ethnically Thai, though peoples of Chinese, Indian, Malay, Mon, Khmer, Burmese, and Lao origin are also represented to varying degrees. Approximately 7 million citizens live in the capital city, Bangkok, though this number varies seasonally and is otherwise difficult to accurately count.
Language
While the official Thai language is widely spoken throughout Thailand, many Thais also speak and understand English, though more so in Bangkok and the major tourist areas. As visitors to Thailand also include many Europeans and other Asians, Thai people's language skills often also include these other languages to varying degrees. The Thai language itself is challenging to master, but Thai people are happy to help foreigners learn a few words to help them get around. However, English is typically the common currency for cross-cultural conversation as Thailand hosts visitors from around the world.
With so many visitors, the Thailand communications system has many features that make it very accessible to foreigners. In regards to telephone use, it is possible to get a Thai SIM card at most international airports and both rental mobile phones and SIM cards are readily available in destinations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Workers in post offices generally speak some English, and there are internet cafes throughout Thailand that feature Skype headsets specifically to cater to visitors wishing to communicate with friends and family back home. The Thailand communications system is both modern and convenient for visitors to use.
Nature
Thailand is a country with abundant natural resources, including a wide variety of flora and fauna, and distinct ecological zones. There are over 100 Thailand national parks, including more than 20 marine parks, and each park features unique attractions, outstanding facilities, and opportunities to see animals in Thailand. Those interested in trekking, mountain biking, photography, birding, camping, scuba diving, or getting up close to exotic animals in Thailand have many options to choose from.
A visit to a Thailand beach or one of the many Thailand islands is an opportunity for visitors to relax, experience exotic marine life, or even learn to scuba dive. However, across Thailand, whether at a beach, island, or Thailand National Park visitors will discover unique flora and fauna and distinct ecological zones, from the temperate forests of the northern mountains and the plains of central Thailand to the savannahs of the northeast and the mangrove forests of the southern coasts. Animals in Thailand include not only elephants and monkeys but also bears and whale sharks, the world's largest fish.
Cultures
The culture of Thailand incorporates cultural beliefs and characteristics indigenous to the area known as modern day Thailand coupled with much influence from ancient India, China, Cambodia, along with the neighbouring pre-historic cultures of Southeast Asia. It is influenced primarily by Animism, Hinduism, Buddhism, as well as by later migrations from China, and southern India.
Cuisine
Thai cuisine is famous for the blending of four fundamental tastes:
• sweet (sugar, fruits, sweet peppers)
• spicy hot (chilies)
• sour (vinegar, lime juice, tamarind)
• salty (soy sauce, fish sauce)
Most of the dishes in Thai cuisine try to combine most, if not all, of these tastes. It is accomplished by using a host of herbs, spices and fruit, including: chili, galangal, garlic, lime leaves, basil, sweet basil, lime, lemongrass, coriander, pepper, turmeric, and shallot.
Economics
The economy of Thailand is reliant on exports, which account for 60% of Thailand's approximately US$ 200 billion GDP. The economy of Thailand is the 2nd largest in Southeast Asia. Thailand's exports consist primarily of agricultural products including fish and rice, of which it is the largest exporter in the world, as well as textiles, rubber, automobiles, computers and other electronic appliances, and jewelry. While one of the premier tourist destinations in the world, Thailand relies on tourism to provide only 7 % of its GDP.
Visa for Arriving Thailand
Thailand's Visa Information
1. General information
2. Types of Visa
3. Issuance of Visa
4. Tourist Visa Exemption
5. Visa on Arrival
6. Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (for Business and Work)
7. Three-year Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (for Business only)
8. Non-Immigrant Visa "O-A" (Long Stay)
9. List of countries which are declared Yellow Fever infected Areas
10. List of countries which have concluded Agreements on the Exemption of Visa Requirements with Thailand
11. List of countries which have concluded bilateral agreements on visa fee exemption with Thailand
12. Summary of countries and territories entitled for Visa Exemption and Visa on Arrival
13. Questions & Answers on Thai Visa
14. Information on Visa Exemption for Thai passport holders
Please click for more information at http://www.mfa.go.th/web/12.php
Currency
The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht. Baht come in both coin and banknote form. The size of Thai currency, both coins and bills increases with value and varies in color.
Credit Cards
Hotels, department stores, airlines, large stores and restaurants accept major credit cards. Cash is generally preferred elsewhere.
Banking Hours
Thai bank hours are generally Monday through Friday, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm, though certain banks have shorter Saturday hours and currency exchange booths are open considerably longer hours in Bangkok and other tourist destinations.
Climate
The weather in Thailand is generally hot and humid: typical of its location within the tropics. Generally speaking, Thailand can be divided into three seasons: "hot" season, rainy season, and "cool" season, though Thailand's geography allows visitors to find suitable weather somewhere in the country throughout the year.
Attractions
There are five regions of Thailand: North, Northeast, East, Central, and South, which are divided into 75+1 provinces, each geographically distinct from the others; each Thailand province contains unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions from the northern peaks (replete with wildlife and home to exotic hill tribes) and the central plains (the "Rice Bowl of Asia") to the northeastern plateau (stretching to the Mekong River border with Laos) and the spectacular beaches and islands of the south (including both Phuket and Samui). This Thailand travel guide can help you plan where to go by providing information about dining and accommodation, Thailand tourist attractions, regional festivals and events, different activities in each of the Thailand provinces, and unique shopping products produced in different regions of Thailand.
Please click for more information http://www.tourismthailand.org/where-to-go/
Telecommunication Service
The Thai phone system is both modern and widespread, with comprehensive coverage for cell phones and reliable pay phones found throughout the kingdom. Purchasing a second-hand Thai phone is inexpensive and convenient, and calling from Thailand on a public phone is easy with a phone card available at most convenience stores. Emergency numbers are often three or four digit numbers, including Tourist Police, which is 1155.
Time Zone
Thailand Standard time is GMT +7. Thailand does not observe daylight savings.
Electricity Supply
Electrical outlets in Thailand are charged to 220v at 50 cycles per second, which is compatible with appliances from the U.K. but not those from the US and many other nations. While most computer cables have adaptors for voltage, visitors from the U.S. and those not on the 220/50 v. will have to bring adapters to run most other appliances. Outlets in Thailand generally feature flat, two pronged plugs, though some feature holes for round plug ends. Few outlets feature three holes (grounded outlets) so it is often necessary to have a three to two prong adapter for using notebook computers in Thailand.
Customs
One of the most distinctive Thai customs is the wai, which is similar to the Indian namaste gesture. Showing greeting, farewell, or acknowledgement, it comes in several forms reflecting the relative status of those involved, but generally it involves a prayer-like gesture with the hands and a bow of the head.
Physical demonstrations of affection in public are common between friends, but less so between lovers. It is thus common to see friends walking together holding hands, but couples rarely do so except in Westernized areas. A notable social norm holds that touching someone on the head may be considered rude. It is also considered rude to place one's feet at a level above someone else's head, especially if that person is of higher social standing. This is because the Thai people consider the foot to be the dirtiest and lowliest part of the body, and the head the most respected and highest part of the body. This also influences how Thais sit when on the ground—their feet always pointing away from others, tucked to the side or behind them. Pointing at or touching something with the feet is also considered rude.
In everyday life in Thailand, there is a strong emphasis on the concept of sanuk; the idea that life should be fun. Because of this, Thai can be quite playful at work and during day-to-day activities. Displaying positive emotions in social interactions is also important in Thai culture, so much so that Thailand is often referred to as the Land of Smiles.
Conflict and displays of anger are eschewed in Thai culture and, as is many Asian cultures, the notion of face is extremely important. For these reasons, visitors should take care not to create conflict, to display anger or to cause a Thai person to lose face. Disagreements or disputes should be handled with a smile and no attempt should be made to assign blame to another. Often, the Thai will deal with disagreements, minor mistakes or misfortunes by using the phrase "mai pen rai", translated as "it doesn't matter". The ubiquitous use of this phrase in Thailand reflects its utility as a means for minimizing conflict, disagreements or complaints as one can merely reply "mai pen rai" to indicate that the incident is not important and therefore there is no conflict or loss of face involved.
Tipping / Taxes
When to tip and how much to tip are common questions for many visitors to Thailand. I've listed a number of different scenarios with suggested advice on how much to tip, but really it's a case of whatever you feel comfortable with. The old advice about leaving a tip of 10% of the charge is a reasonable benchmark in many instances. It's worth bearing in mind that many workers in Thailand earn less than $6 a day (£3). That doesn't mean you should feel guilty and leave everybody huge tips, but it does give some perspective.
Taxis: As a rule, taxi drivers don't expect tips so it's up to you whether you want to leave one or not. Personally, I always feel more comfortable leaving a tip when the driver has been pleasant and courteous. For instance, if my fare is 250 Baht on the meter I would normally hand over 300 Baht and tell the driver to keep the change although a 20 or 30 Baht tip would also be reasonable. On the other hand, some taxi drivers (particularly in Bangkok) will try and get the passenger to negotiate a fare in advance rather than go on the meter. In effect, what they are doing is trying to bump up the fare and make a bit extra out of you. In cases like this I wouldn't normally leave a tip. Tuk-tuks: There's no need to tip tuk-tuk drivers, but if he's particularly chatty or makes me laugh I will usually leave an extra 20 Baht. If he's surly and abrupt I won't.
Hotels: A 20 Baht tip for the bell-boy or porter who carries your bags to your room is fairly standard. I also think it's nice to leave a small tip for the room maid at the end of your stay. Hotel workers may only make 200 Baht a day or less and although they won't always expect a tip it will be appreciated. Some guests leave a tip each day by placing small change on the pillow of their unmade bed.
Eating Out: Certain places will already include a service charge on the bill and there's no need to leave a tip. For most moderate to expensive restaurants leaving a tip which equates to 10% of the total charge is quite common. For small roadside stalls and eateries there is no need to leave a tip, but rounding the amount up is ninformation-2ot unusual. So if your roadside rice and chicken costs 35 Baht, hand over 40 Baht and don't worry about the change. Bars and Clubs: The price of drinks in Thailand is cheap compared to the West and the service is usually far better too. These two factors alone should be good enough reason to leave a tip. The 1 Baht Insult: Leaving 1 Baht as a tip is a deliberate insult and is best avoided unless you are intent on causing offence.
Taxes: Expect to pay 7% VAT on all goods and services. This includes meals and hotel rooms, although budget guesthouses do not usually list this on receipts, if they give receipts at all. Selected department stores offer refunds for tourists, but VAT is generally non-refundable.
Taxis
Bangkok Taxis aka Taxi-Meter are by far the easiest form of transportation in Bangkok unless it's rush hour and raining torrents.
Virtually all registered taxis in Bangkok have meters and are supposed to turn on the meter automatically. The taxis equipped with meters are obvious from a lighted sign on the roof. Sometimes drivers will try to negotiate fixed priced fares, as is done with tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis. It generally isn't a good idea to accept one. When trying to hail a taxi, look for a small red light on the passenger side dashboard. If the light is out, the taxi is not available. Although the light may be malfunctioning. There is a fixed fare system in Bangkok. The initial fare is Bt 35 which included the first 2 km and Bt 4.5 - 5.5/km after that.(2-12 km - Bt 4.5/km; 12-20 km - Bt 5/km; over 20 km Bt 5.5/km)
| Thailand | Economics | Telecommunication Service |
| Bangkok | Visa for Arriving Thailand | Time Zone |
| People | Currency | Electricity Supply |
| Language | Credit Cards | Customs |
| Nature | Banking Hours | Tipping / Taxes |
| Cultures | Climate | Taxis |
| Cuisine | Attractions |
Thailand
Thailand is a wondrous kingdom, featuring Buddhist temples, exotic wildlife, and spectacular islands. Along with a fascinating history and a unique culture that includes delectable Thai food and massage, Thailand features a modern capital city, and friendly people who epitomize Thailand's "land of smiles" reputation.
Thailand is a country that lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Burma. Its maritime boundaries include Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand to the southeast and Indonesia and India in the Andaman Sea to the southwest.
The country is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy with King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth king of the House of Chakri, who has reigned since 1946, making him the world's longest-serving current head of state and the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history.The king is officially titled Head of State, the Head of the Armed Forces, an Upholder of the Buddhist religion, and the Defender of all Faiths. The largest city in Thailand is Bangkok, the capital, which is also the country's center of political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities. Thailand is the world's 50th largest country in terms of total area, with a surface area of approximately 513,000 km2, and the 21st most-populous country, with approximately 64 million people. About 75% of the population is ethnically Thai, 14% is of Chinese origin, and 3% is ethnically Malay; the rest belong to minority groups including Mons, Khmers and various hill tribes. There are approximately 2.2 million legal and illegal migrants in Thailand. Thailand has also attracted a number of expatriates from developed countries.The country's official language is Thai. Its primary religion is Buddhism, which is practiced by around 95% of all Thais.
Thailand experienced rapid economic growth between 1985 and 1995 and is a newly industrialized country with tourism, due to well-known tourist destinations such as Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Ko Samui, and exports contributing significantly to the economy.
Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital, largest urban area and primary city of Thailand. Known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, or Krung Thep, meaning "city of angels" for short, it was a small trading post at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River during the Ayutthaya Kingdom. It came to the forefront of Siam when it was given the status as the capital city in 1768 after the burning of Ayutthaya. However, the current Rattanakosin Kingdom did not begin until 1782 when the capital was moved across the river by Rama I after the death of King Taksin. The Rattanakosin capital is now more formally called "Phra Nakhon", pertaining to the ancient boundaries in the metropolis' core and the name Bangkok now incorporates the urban build-up since the 18th century which has its own public administration and governor.
People
The population of Thailand comprises of roughly 65 million citizens, the majority of whom are ethnically Thai, though peoples of Chinese, Indian, Malay, Mon, Khmer, Burmese, and Lao origin are also represented to varying degrees. Approximately 7 million citizens live in the capital city, Bangkok, though this number varies seasonally and is otherwise difficult to accurately count.
Language
While the official Thai language is widely spoken throughout Thailand, many Thais also speak and understand English, though more so in Bangkok and the major tourist areas. As visitors to Thailand also include many Europeans and other Asians, Thai people's language skills often also include these other languages to varying degrees. The Thai language itself is challenging to master, but Thai people are happy to help foreigners learn a few words to help them get around. However, English is typically the common currency for cross-cultural conversation as Thailand hosts visitors from around the world.
With so many visitors, the Thailand communications system has many features that make it very accessible to foreigners. In regards to telephone use, it is possible to get a Thai SIM card at most international airports and both rental mobile phones and SIM cards are readily available in destinations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Workers in post offices generally speak some English, and there are internet cafes throughout Thailand that feature Skype headsets specifically to cater to visitors wishing to communicate with friends and family back home. The Thailand communications system is both modern and convenient for visitors to use.
Nature
Thailand is a country with abundant natural resources, including a wide variety of flora and fauna, and distinct ecological zones. There are over 100 Thailand national parks, including more than 20 marine parks, and each park features unique attractions, outstanding facilities, and opportunities to see animals in Thailand. Those interested in trekking, mountain biking, photography, birding, camping, scuba diving, or getting up close to exotic animals in Thailand have many options to choose from.
A visit to a Thailand beach or one of the many Thailand islands is an opportunity for visitors to relax, experience exotic marine life, or even learn to scuba dive. However, across Thailand, whether at a beach, island, or Thailand National Park visitors will discover unique flora and fauna and distinct ecological zones, from the temperate forests of the northern mountains and the plains of central Thailand to the savannahs of the northeast and the mangrove forests of the southern coasts. Animals in Thailand include not only elephants and monkeys but also bears and whale sharks, the world's largest fish.
Cultures
The culture of Thailand incorporates cultural beliefs and characteristics indigenous to the area known as modern day Thailand coupled with much influence from ancient India, China, Cambodia, along with the neighbouring pre-historic cultures of Southeast Asia. It is influenced primarily by Animism, Hinduism, Buddhism, as well as by later migrations from China, and southern India.
Cuisine
Thai cuisine is famous for the blending of four fundamental tastes:
• sweet (sugar, fruits, sweet peppers)
• spicy hot (chilies)
• sour (vinegar, lime juice, tamarind)
• salty (soy sauce, fish sauce)
Most of the dishes in Thai cuisine try to combine most, if not all, of these tastes. It is accomplished by using a host of herbs, spices and fruit, including: chili, galangal, garlic, lime leaves, basil, sweet basil, lime, lemongrass, coriander, pepper, turmeric, and shallot.
Economics
The economy of Thailand is reliant on exports, which account for 60% of Thailand's approximately US$ 200 billion GDP. The economy of Thailand is the 2nd largest in Southeast Asia. Thailand's exports consist primarily of agricultural products including fish and rice, of which it is the largest exporter in the world, as well as textiles, rubber, automobiles, computers and other electronic appliances, and jewelry. While one of the premier tourist destinations in the world, Thailand relies on tourism to provide only 7 % of its GDP.
Visa for Arriving Thailand
Thailand's Visa Information
1. General information
2. Types of Visa
3. Issuance of Visa
4. Tourist Visa Exemption
5. Visa on Arrival
6. Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (for Business and Work)
7. Three-year Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (for Business only)
8. Non-Immigrant Visa "O-A" (Long Stay)
9. List of countries which are declared Yellow Fever infected Areas
10. List of countries which have concluded Agreements on the Exemption of Visa Requirements with Thailand
11. List of countries which have concluded bilateral agreements on visa fee exemption with Thailand
12. Summary of countries and territories entitled for Visa Exemption and Visa on Arrival
13. Questions & Answers on Thai Visa
14. Information on Visa Exemption for Thai passport holders
Please click for more information at http://www.mfa.go.th/web/12.php
Currency
The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht. Baht come in both coin and banknote form. The size of Thai currency, both coins and bills increases with value and varies in color.
Credit Cards
Hotels, department stores, airlines, large stores and restaurants accept major credit cards. Cash is generally preferred elsewhere.
Banking Hours
Thai bank hours are generally Monday through Friday, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm, though certain banks have shorter Saturday hours and currency exchange booths are open considerably longer hours in Bangkok and other tourist destinations.
Climate
The weather in Thailand is generally hot and humid: typical of its location within the tropics. Generally speaking, Thailand can be divided into three seasons: "hot" season, rainy season, and "cool" season, though Thailand's geography allows visitors to find suitable weather somewhere in the country throughout the year.
Attractions
There are five regions of Thailand: North, Northeast, East, Central, and South, which are divided into 75+1 provinces, each geographically distinct from the others; each Thailand province contains unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions from the northern peaks (replete with wildlife and home to exotic hill tribes) and the central plains (the "Rice Bowl of Asia") to the northeastern plateau (stretching to the Mekong River border with Laos) and the spectacular beaches and islands of the south (including both Phuket and Samui). This Thailand travel guide can help you plan where to go by providing information about dining and accommodation, Thailand tourist attractions, regional festivals and events, different activities in each of the Thailand provinces, and unique shopping products produced in different regions of Thailand.
Please click for more information http://www.tourismthailand.org/where-to-go/
Telecommunication Service
The Thai phone system is both modern and widespread, with comprehensive coverage for cell phones and reliable pay phones found throughout the kingdom. Purchasing a second-hand Thai phone is inexpensive and convenient, and calling from Thailand on a public phone is easy with a phone card available at most convenience stores. Emergency numbers are often three or four digit numbers, including Tourist Police, which is 1155.
Time Zone
Thailand Standard time is GMT +7. Thailand does not observe daylight savings.
Electricity Supply
Electrical outlets in Thailand are charged to 220v at 50 cycles per second, which is compatible with appliances from the U.K. but not those from the US and many other nations. While most computer cables have adaptors for voltage, visitors from the U.S. and those not on the 220/50 v. will have to bring adapters to run most other appliances. Outlets in Thailand generally feature flat, two pronged plugs, though some feature holes for round plug ends. Few outlets feature three holes (grounded outlets) so it is often necessary to have a three to two prong adapter for using notebook computers in Thailand.
Customs
One of the most distinctive Thai customs is the wai, which is similar to the Indian namaste gesture. Showing greeting, farewell, or acknowledgement, it comes in several forms reflecting the relative status of those involved, but generally it involves a prayer-like gesture with the hands and a bow of the head.
Physical demonstrations of affection in public are common between friends, but less so between lovers. It is thus common to see friends walking together holding hands, but couples rarely do so except in Westernized areas. A notable social norm holds that touching someone on the head may be considered rude. It is also considered rude to place one's feet at a level above someone else's head, especially if that person is of higher social standing. This is because the Thai people consider the foot to be the dirtiest and lowliest part of the body, and the head the most respected and highest part of the body. This also influences how Thais sit when on the ground—their feet always pointing away from others, tucked to the side or behind them. Pointing at or touching something with the feet is also considered rude.
In everyday life in Thailand, there is a strong emphasis on the concept of sanuk; the idea that life should be fun. Because of this, Thai can be quite playful at work and during day-to-day activities. Displaying positive emotions in social interactions is also important in Thai culture, so much so that Thailand is often referred to as the Land of Smiles.
Conflict and displays of anger are eschewed in Thai culture and, as is many Asian cultures, the notion of face is extremely important. For these reasons, visitors should take care not to create conflict, to display anger or to cause a Thai person to lose face. Disagreements or disputes should be handled with a smile and no attempt should be made to assign blame to another. Often, the Thai will deal with disagreements, minor mistakes or misfortunes by using the phrase "mai pen rai", translated as "it doesn't matter". The ubiquitous use of this phrase in Thailand reflects its utility as a means for minimizing conflict, disagreements or complaints as one can merely reply "mai pen rai" to indicate that the incident is not important and therefore there is no conflict or loss of face involved.
Tipping / Taxes
When to tip and how much to tip are common questions for many visitors to Thailand. I've listed a number of different scenarios with suggested advice on how much to tip, but really it's a case of whatever you feel comfortable with. The old advice about leaving a tip of 10% of the charge is a reasonable benchmark in many instances. It's worth bearing in mind that many workers in Thailand earn less than $6 a day (£3). That doesn't mean you should feel guilty and leave everybody huge tips, but it does give some perspective.
Taxis: As a rule, taxi drivers don't expect tips so it's up to you whether you want to leave one or not. Personally, I always feel more comfortable leaving a tip when the driver has been pleasant and courteous. For instance, if my fare is 250 Baht on the meter I would normally hand over 300 Baht and tell the driver to keep the change although a 20 or 30 Baht tip would also be reasonable. On the other hand, some taxi drivers (particularly in Bangkok) will try and get the passenger to negotiate a fare in advance rather than go on the meter. In effect, what they are doing is trying to bump up the fare and make a bit extra out of you. In cases like this I wouldn't normally leave a tip. Tuk-tuks: There's no need to tip tuk-tuk drivers, but if he's particularly chatty or makes me laugh I will usually leave an extra 20 Baht. If he's surly and abrupt I won't.
Hotels: A 20 Baht tip for the bell-boy or porter who carries your bags to your room is fairly standard. I also think it's nice to leave a small tip for the room maid at the end of your stay. Hotel workers may only make 200 Baht a day or less and although they won't always expect a tip it will be appreciated. Some guests leave a tip each day by placing small change on the pillow of their unmade bed.
Eating Out: Certain places will already include a service charge on the bill and there's no need to leave a tip. For most moderate to expensive restaurants leaving a tip which equates to 10% of the total charge is quite common. For small roadside stalls and eateries there is no need to leave a tip, but rounding the amount up is ninformation-2ot unusual. So if your roadside rice and chicken costs 35 Baht, hand over 40 Baht and don't worry about the change. Bars and Clubs: The price of drinks in Thailand is cheap compared to the West and the service is usually far better too. These two factors alone should be good enough reason to leave a tip. The 1 Baht Insult: Leaving 1 Baht as a tip is a deliberate insult and is best avoided unless you are intent on causing offence.
Taxes: Expect to pay 7% VAT on all goods and services. This includes meals and hotel rooms, although budget guesthouses do not usually list this on receipts, if they give receipts at all. Selected department stores offer refunds for tourists, but VAT is generally non-refundable.
Taxis
Bangkok Taxis aka Taxi-Meter are by far the easiest form of transportation in Bangkok unless it's rush hour and raining torrents.
Virtually all registered taxis in Bangkok have meters and are supposed to turn on the meter automatically. The taxis equipped with meters are obvious from a lighted sign on the roof. Sometimes drivers will try to negotiate fixed priced fares, as is done with tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis. It generally isn't a good idea to accept one. When trying to hail a taxi, look for a small red light on the passenger side dashboard. If the light is out, the taxi is not available. Although the light may be malfunctioning. There is a fixed fare system in Bangkok. The initial fare is Bt 35 which included the first 2 km and Bt 4.5 - 5.5/km after that.(2-12 km - Bt 4.5/km; 12-20 km - Bt 5/km; over 20 km Bt 5.5/km)
