Bangkok Pre-Arrival FAQ!
Hi!
When I read trough Lonely Planets I often see that new travellers to Bangkok have a lot of basic questions, that for some reason the guidebooks don't really cover.
And I can understand why people would want to ask ahead, Bangkok can be quite a culture shock if you have never been to Asian metropol before, especially such one as Bangkok, where the infrastructure leaves a lot to be desired!
So I have decided to do my own little FAQ posts here, to help new arrivals to Bangkok, take a look if your questions have been answered here. I have tried to limit this Bangkok FAQ to basic questions. Have a look and see if your question is anwered below.
Jack Powers Bangkok FAQ:
Pre Arrival:
Q: Do I need a Visa to enter Thailand?
A: This depends on two things: The purpose of your visit to Thailand and your country of origin.
First, if your country is one of the following you can get a visa exemption ( a "stamp") valid for 30 days (if you arrive by air) or 15 days if you arrive by land.
These countries are eligble for Visa exempt:
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bahrain, Brunei, Canada, Danmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Peru, Phillipines, Portugal, Quatar, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam
If you are a citizen you will have to apply for a tourist visa:
Which everyone is eligble for (including the countries mentioned before) at your local Thai Embassy. The Visa process should not take more than a few days. The you will have a valid Tourist Visa with a duration of 60 days and an option to extend an additional 30 days!
Q: Do I need proof of onward travel?
A: Yes. At least in theory. I have personally never had a problem on the thai part, but I have been forced to buy a ticket out of Thailand sometimes in order to buy a ticket flying to Thailand!
Q: Do I really need to have proof of income or cash reserve?
A: No. Although the law says you have to, I have never heard of anyone being asked to provide these.
Q: Should I book hotel in advance?
A: That would be a good idea to book the first few nights at least, so you don't have to carry your luggage around while touts try to drag you of. This can be a real hassle after a long flight. Booking in advance over the internet will also save you money.
I personally use www.agoda.com , they have good deals, are reliable, easy to book and have customer support. Try booking ahead in time with them for special deals. Another agent is www.priceline.com
, they give rebates and discount for members.
Q: Where can I find a taxi stand in Suvanabhumi (Bangkok) Airport?
A: When you get out of Immigration follow the crowd until you are on the arrivals floor. Ignore the touts trying to get you in an expensive limousine and go outside. Tell the personell where you want to go and get in.
Q: How much does a taxi cost to my hotel?
A: Taxis are very cheap in Bangkok.
Taxi to Kao Sarn area cost around 250 baht + 50 baht airport fee
Taxi to Sukhumvit area cost around 200 baht + 50 baht airport fee
ALWAYS go by meter, theres 70000 or so taxies in Bangkok, if one doesnt turn on the meter, the next will, dont be afraid to get out!
Q: What will the weather be like when I get there?
A:
December - February: Dry, Moderately Hot
February - May: Dry, Very Hot
May - November: Rainy Season
This can vary within Thailand.
You can see local weather reports here: http://www.travelfish.org/weather_fish.php
Q: Can I buy xyz medicine in Thailand?
A: Most medicine can be bought over the counter in pharmacies in Thailand, including prescription drugs, but remember it may not be legal to carry home.
Q: What island should I visit?
A: Check out this blog: Thailand Beaches and Islands.
Q: What are some cheap airlines from London?
A: You will have to look around but I have found these to be cheapest:
Egypt Air
Quatar Air
Sri-Lankan Air
Q: Is Thailand safe?
A: Yes. Use common sense and you will be fine. Single female travellers should avoid going alone at night and staying at beaches or secluded areas after dark.
Q: You didn't answer my question, where can I go ask?
A: Now you can go back to Lonely Planet and ask!
If you think I should include answers to something else please give me a shout!
Cheers,
Jack
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