Elegantly labeled as the 'travel and shopping paradise' or the 'land of smiles,' Thailand remains an alluring destination for international tourists. Here, you can marvel at unique architectural wonders, partake in vibrant traditional festivals, and indulge in extensive shopping at bustling markets and malls. Let's get ready for your upcoming journey with this list of must-knows for traveling to Thailand, courtesy of Mytour.
Things to know when traveling to Thailand @shutterstock
1. Stay Informed about the Latest Entry Regulations for Thailand
Essential Information for Traveling to Thailand
1.1 For Fully Vaccinated International Visitors
Individuals aged 18 and above must be fully vaccinated with approved vaccines at least 14 days before entering the country.
Those aged 5 – 17 (unaccompanied) need to receive at least 1 approved vaccine dose at least 14 days before entry. This requirement is waived if traveling with parents.
International travelers to Thailand must adhere to entry regulations @shutterstock
1.2 For International Visitors Not Fully Vaccinated or Incompletely Vaccinated
2. Best Time to Visit Thailand
For seasoned Thailand travelers, weather and climate are always among the top things to know when traveling to Thailand. Thailand falls under the tropical monsoon climate, similar to Vietnam. The rainy season lasts from May to October, but the rainfall is not excessive.
Best time to travel to Thailand is from around November to April @shutterstock
The most favorable time to visit the Land of Golden Temples is from November to April, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. If you want to experience the festive atmosphere in Thailand, you can come during Songkran and Lantern Festival.
Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year, usually celebrated on April 13th of each year, lasting from 3 to 5 days. During this time, you can participate in the water festival with the aim of seeking luck and happiness.
Traveling to Thailand
3. Getting to Thailand – Best Modes of Transportation
Airplane is the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation to reach Thailand. Currently, there are many direct flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok or Chiangmai. Reputable airlines you can choose include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, and Nok Air, with ticket prices starting from 900,000 VND. It's advisable to choose morning or noon flights to make it in time for hotel check-in.
Many airlines operate direct flights from Vietnam to Thailand @shutterstock
Mytour assists customers in finding affordable Vietnam – Thailand flights, facilitating quick bookings and easy payments.
4. Transportation and Getting Around in Thailand
Key Tips for Traveling to Thailand
Traffic congestion during peak hours in Bangkok @shutterstock
Common types of public transportation you can choose from include:
The subway is a popular means of transportation for tourists in Thailand. Bangkok's subway system connects to many famous attractions, hotels, and markets. Operating from 6 am to midnight, the subway offers affordable fares and efficient travel times.
Independent travel in Thailand
The Skytrain system in Bangkok, Thailand @shutterstock
The train service connecting Suvarnabhumi Airport to the central Bangkok has two types: Express Line and City Line. There is an Express Line every hour and a City Line every 15 minutes. With tickets starting from 45 Baht (~ 28,000 VND), travelers can head to the airport basement for assistance.
Traveling in Thailand
Buses offer a budget-friendly means of transportation in Thailand @shutterstock
These are the fastest and most comfortable means of transportation, and travelers need not worry about the route. Taxis have a metered fare, with the initial 2 km costing around 35 Baht (~ 22,000 VND) and 5 Baht (~ 3,200 VND) for each additional km. Tuk Tuks have negotiable prices, typically based on an agreement between the driver and the passenger.
5. Travelers must show respect to the Thai Royal Family
Essentials for Traveling in Thailand
“Respecting the Royal Family” is among the essential things to know when traveling to Thailand @shutterstock
Additionally, tourists are not allowed to write or draw obscenities on the portrait of the Thai King on coins and banknotes. The National Anthem is played at public places at 8 AM and 6 PM every day. Travelers should stand still, observe, and follow the local crowd during this time.
6. Maintain decorum when visiting temples
Buddhism is considered the national religion in Thailand, and the majority of Thais are Buddhists. Therefore, the country has strict regulations for visitors to famous temples in Thailand. Travelers should dress modestly, avoiding short or revealing clothing, and both pants and skirts should cover the knees.
Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the temples @shutterstock
essential tips for traveling in Thailand
7. Avoid touching heads and giving objects to others with your left hand
In Thai culture, the right hand symbolizes nobility, while the left hand is considered impolite. Therefore, when offering objects or gifts to others, always use your right hand.
Travelers are advised not to point their bare feet towards the Buddha statue @shutterstock
Additionally, the head is considered a resting place for the soul, and it's inappropriate to touch someone's head without consent. Feet are also seen as the dirtiest part of the body, so avoid pointing your bare feet towards the Buddha statue.
8. Where to go for tourism in Thailand?
Thailand is renowned as the paradise for travel and shopping in Southeast Asia. When visiting this country, you can explore the following famous tourist destinations:
8.1 Bangkok
The Royal Palace, constructed in 1782, served as the residence for the King and the royal family for 150 years. It represents traditional Thai architecture and holds significant historical importance. Located on Na Phra Lan Road, Old City, it opens daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, with an entrance fee of 500 Baht (~320,000 VND).
Unique architecture of the Thai Royal Palace @shutterstock
The Land of the Golden Temples boasts numerous unique temples, with highlights including Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.
Wat Phra Kaew: Wat Phra Kaew is the Royal Thai Jade Buddha Temple situated within the Grand Palace compound. Renowned for its beautiful architecture and an emerald Buddha statue, it's the only temple in Thailand without resident monks. Entrance fee for visitors is 500 Baht (~320,000 VND).
essential tips for traveling in Thailand
Wat Pho is a historic temple in Bangkok with a rich history @shutterstock
Wat Arun: Wat Arun is the most visited temple in Bangkok, blending traditional architecture with Chinese porcelain art. The ideal time to explore this temple is during sunset.
Thailand offers a variety of shopping spots, from malls to weekend markets. Some recommended places include Siam Paragon, Terminal 21, Siam Center, Big C, Platinum Fashion Mall, and the Chatuchak Weekend Market.
8.2 Chiang Mai
travel experiences in Thailand 2022
Buddha statue at Wat Phrathat temple on Doi Suthep hill @shutterstock
Old Town Chiang Mai is a nostalgically rich district characterized by temples, antique shops, and narrow alleys. Stroll through the old town to admire the architecture, take Instagram-worthy photos, and visit three renowned temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phan Tao.
8.3 Famous Islands in Thailand
Koh Samui is renowned as a resort paradise, perfect for family vacations. Prominent resorts include Four Seasons Koh Samui and Le Méridien Koh Samui. With excellent service and the tranquil island atmosphere, it's sure to provide you with many exciting experiences.
essential tips for traveling in Thailand
Scenic landscapes in the picturesque waters of Phang Nga Bay @shutterstock
Koh Phi Phi Island has been the most trending travel destination recently, attracting adventurous young explorers. When visiting Koh Phi Phi, you can engage in various activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, shark watching, camping, and more. Notable spots on the island include Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Leh, and Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint.
essential tips for traveling in Thailand
Mytour is always your companion in exploring the beautiful country of Thailand. Quickly book your flights and hotels at great prices to enjoy many enticing offers.
Explore More:
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