Buzz
Connecting with Loved Ones from Thailand
Maintaining relationships with friends, family, and colleagues overseas is vital for staying connected and making plans. Fortunately, reaching out internationally from Thailand is a relatively simple process. By understanding the dialing codes and preparing ahead, you can easily stay in touch, no matter where your important contacts are located.
Dialing Calls from Thailand
To place an international call from Thailand, start by dialing the country's exit code: 001. Then, enter the recipient's country code, followed by their area code and phone number.
Steps to Follow
Locating the Necessary Dialing Codes
Identify the country calling code for the nation you're reaching out to. This code consists of 1 to 3 digits and is required to route your call to the appropriate country. You can easily find international dialing code lists to determine the code needed for your call, such as this one: https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/international-calling-codes.htm#tip-international-calls.
- Consider using an online tool to pinpoint exactly what numbers to dial based on the country you're calling, such as https://countrycode.org/.
Check if you need a special code to call a mobile phone outside of Thailand. When calling a mobile phone abroad, you may need to add an extra code specific to mobile calls. Some countries, though not all, require this additional code. These codes differ by country and may incur extra charges from your service provider. A comprehensive list of mobile phone codes is available here: https://www.sprint.com/en/support/solutions/international/international-mobile-dial-codes.html
- For example, to call a mobile phone in Mexico, you'd need to append a 1 to the country code. So, for Mexico, which has the country code 52, you would dial 521.
- Typically, these codes signal to phone providers that the call may be billed at a higher rate compared to landline calls.
Find the correct city or area code. This code will typically be the first few digits of the phone number you wish to dial. Depending on the country, it may be a 2-digit or 3-digit number.
- In the United States, the area code is a 3-digit number that precedes the 7-digit phone number. For example, to call Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, you would need to dial the area code 412 or 878.
- To contact a number in Sydney, Australia, you must use the area code 02.
- If you’re unsure of the area code, you can search for it online or ask the person you're calling to provide it via email.
Making Calls from Mobile or Landline
Start by dialing Thailand's exit code, 001. To make international calls from Thailand, the first step is to dial the country's exit code, also referred to as the International Direct Dialing (IDD) or International Subscriber Dialing (ISD) code. In Thailand, the code is 001.
- If you're calling from a mobile device, you can use the “+” symbol located on the same key as the 0. This is often a quick alternative to the exit code.
- If you need help from an international operator, dial 110.
Pro Tip: Consider dialing 007 or 008 instead of 001 to benefit from lower rates. These codes will route your call through more affordable communication channels, though the call quality might not be as high.
Enter the country code after dialing the exit code. Next, input the 1- to 3-digit country code you’ve looked up. This code identifies the country you’re calling.
- For example, Switzerland’s country code is 41.
If needed, dial the mobile phone code. If you're calling a mobile phone, enter the mobile phone code provided by your service provider. These codes may vary based on the provider, so it’s crucial to check ahead on their website or by calling customer service.
- Be aware that international calls to mobile phones may incur additional charges.
Finish by dialing the area code and phone number. Now, dial the phone number as usual, starting with the area or city code followed by the phone number. For example, when calling a landline in London from Thailand, dial: 001-44-20-7946-0772.
- If using a mobile, you can replace the exit code with the “+” symbol, so the number would appear as: +44-20-7946-0772.
Press the call button to initiate your call. After entering the required numbers, press the call button to make the connection. Always double-check the numbers you've entered to ensure you’re dialing the correct number to avoid any mix-ups.
- Remember to consider the time difference before placing your call. A quick check of the time zone difference online will help you avoid waking someone up in the middle of the night!
Paying for International Calls
Get a travel plan for your mobile phone. Mobile providers offer a range of travel plans that can be purchased ahead of your trip. Be sure to review their coverage and pricing details so you’re aware of how much each minute of your international calls will cost.
- While this option might be convenient, it could also end up being one of the more expensive choices due to additional charges your home provider may impose.
- Make sure to read online reviews and the fine print of any plan before deciding to go with it.
Bring an unlocked phone and buy a Thai SIM card. You can easily buy a SIM card at any phone shop or convenience store in Thailand. Remember to bring your passport with you, as it’s required to register your phone number when purchasing the card.
- The cost is usually around $5, and it often includes 15-30 minutes of talk time.
- This option helps you avoid additional fees from your home service provider for international roaming plans.
Use a calling card to buy calling minutes. To use a calling card, dial the access number provided on the back of the card, followed by your pin code. Then, dial the international number you wish to reach.
- Calling cards can be purchased from grocery stores, convenience stores, or online.
- Make sure to review the terms of your calling card so you’re aware of the cost per minute for international calls.
Consider using internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber. These free applications need to be installed on your phone, tablet, or laptop, and they require a Wi-Fi connection to function. The person you're calling must also be using the same app and connected to a Wi-Fi network.
- Some internet services, such as Skype, may charge a small fee for international calls, so be sure to read their service agreements before using them.
- These apps not only offer affordable rates but also enable video calls, allowing you to see the person you're talking to.
- Since these apps require Wi-Fi, ensure you have access to a stable internet connection to avoid disruptions during the call.
Use an internet voice call provider like Skype or VYKE for calling landlines. From Thailand, there are online services that let you make landline calls for a fee. Be sure to review their rates and understand the charges involved before committing.
- Making international calls from Thailand through a mobile or landline can be very expensive, so opting for internet-based services like Skype and VYKE might be a more affordable alternative.
-
Ensure you have all the necessary details before making your call.
-
Contact your service provider ahead of time to familiarize yourself with their rates and fees for international calls.
