Thailand is a very popular tourist destination in Asia and it is not hard to see why. The country offers an abundance of natural attractions, unique cuisine, and great people – not to mention fantastic weather!
Visa Requirements
Visitors from most Asian nations as well as tourists from the European Union and Western countries are not required to have a visa to enter Thailand if their primary purpose for visiting is a vacation. However, you need to have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country. Depending on the home country and the means of transportation, visitors get permits of different lengths, so it is best to get in touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to find out more. Tourists should also note that they are legally required to carry their passport with them at all times.
Things to Do
Thailand constantly draws tourists year in and year out. One of the most popular tourist attractions are the many beautiful beaches Thailand has to offer. Another fun activity is golf, which playing a very popular sport in the country and almost everyone in the country it.
Popular outdoor activities in Thailand include rock climbing, cycling, trekking, surfing, and scuba diving. If you enjoy a Thai massage, you should really try out a Thai massage. Spas are abundant in the country and tourists should definitely be pampered and enjoy this luxurious experience.
Sights to See
Aside from the beautiful beaches Thailand offers, there are also other great sights. One of these is the Khao Yai National Park in which tourists can experience forests and wildlife in a peacefully serene atmosphere. In the northern part of Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, tourists will also find plenty of historic ruins, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Khao Sok National Park is also a great place to visit. Being the oldest and biggest rainforest in the country, it is a great place for hiking as well as discovering a diverse variety of flora and fauna.
Behavior Tips for Foreigners
Thai people are very easy to get along with, as long as you do not insult the Royal Family. If for instance you drop a Thai coin or a paper bill, never stop it by stepping on it – just bend down to pick it up. The king’s face is on almost every currency and stepping on it is considered the same as stepping on the king’s face.
With Thai people naturally being conservative people, well-dressed foreigners will be surprised at the amount of respect and attention they will receive compared to others who are not so well-dressed. You should also be aware that you are required to take off your footwear when entering places of worship and homes, and even some shops.
In the event that you come across a monk, keep in mind that offering them money is a sign of disrespect. If you would like to make an offering to a monk, you should give food instead. Women should never give anything directly to a monk – it is best to place it in front of the monk so he can pick it up himself.