Theravada Buddhism is central to Thai culture; over 90% of the population practices this faith. Buddhism in Thailand is unique compared to the rest of Southeast Asia and blends aspects of Hinduism, Chinese beliefs, and animism. It’s not uncommon to see people wearing or carrying talismans, and many Thais also strongly believe in spirits and ghosts.

Many Buddhist teachings can be seen in most threads of Thai society. Ancestors and elders are highly respected; elders are typically served first at meals, offered the right of way, and treated as honored guests. During many festivals, Thai families take time to honor and remember their ancestors. You’ll also find that families are the cornerstone of everyday life in Thailand. Families tend to be tightly knit, and multiple generations typically live under the same roof.

Status and social hierarchies are important in Thai culture. Monks receive the utmost respect in all types of social interactions. Patriotism and the monarchy hold a particularly special place in Thais’ hearts, and people always take great care to demonstrate the utmost respect for the king and his family. Potentially disrespectful comments (even well-meaning jokes) are not only considered rude but may be against the law.

Thais greet each other with a gesture called a wai. This gentle greeting expresses hellos, goodbyes, gratitude, respect, and regret. To perform a wai, put your hands together in prayer position at your chest, then slightly bow your head so your fingers touch your nose. If you receive a wai, it is polite to give the gesture back. If someone is considerably younger than you, a nod and smile will suffice.

　 Buddhist teachings are central Thai life, including polite body language and appropriate attire for temples and pagodas. In Thailand, like the rest of Southeast Asia, the head is considered holy while the bottoms of the feet are seen as dirty. To avoid accidental offense, please do not touch a person’s head or hair -- this includes cheerfully patting children on the top of the head, showing the soles of your feet, or touching or pointing at anything with your feet. In addition, pointing with your fingers is also considered rude. When visiting Thailand’s sacred sites, please make sure to wear conservative attire and fully cover your shoulders, arms, torso, and legs. When entering a temple, home, or certain shops, please remove your shoes.

When eating in Thailand, you typically use a spoon rather than chopsticks. Hold the spoon in your right hand, and hold the fork in your left. A fork can be used to transfer food to your spoon, but it shouldn’t be put into your mouth. Eating all of your food indicates you’re still hungry; to be polite, leave a few bites if you’re invited somebody’s table for meal. In Thailand, the left hand is usually used for toilet duties and considered dirty, so you’ll want to make sure to use your right hand for passing objects, paying for goods, eating with your fingers, and so forth.

Many travelers perceive Thais as laid-back. It’s true that Thai culture takes a joyful and fun approach to life. Also, outward displays of extreme emotion are generally not shown in public, so please take care to keep a reserved and relaxed demeanor.

It would take multiple lifetimes to exhaust Thailand’s internationally celebrated cuisine. From heavenly desserts to flavorful main courses, each region boasts its own mouthwatering offerings. Many meals have noodles or rice as a base; in fact, jasmine rice is native to Thailand. You’ll often also find mounds of fresh vegetables, tender meat or tofu, and plenty of accompaniments like fish sauce or spicy dipping sauces, fragrant coriander, or fried shallots and garlic. Thai culinary traditions mirror many in Southeast Asia; dishes strike a good balance among sweet, savory, spicy, bitter, and sour flavors.

Many versions of Thailand’s famous main dishes are eaten and enjoyed throughout the world. International travelers are typically familiar with pad thai. Filled with heaping mounds of stir-fried noodles and a bounty of delectable toppings such as shrimp, chicken, tofu, crunchy bean sprouts, lime leaves, or crushed peanuts, this satisfying meal delivers robust flavor. Thailand is also celebrated for its curries, often flavored with coconut milk, fragrant Thai basil, shrimp paste, and aromatic lemongrass and coriander. Surprisingly, a chef who runs a small shophouse was recently awarded Michelin star status for her outstanding street food! No matter if you grab a steaming plate on a busy street corner, or if you prefer fine dining at an elegant restaurant, you’re certain to find Thai food that you’ll absolutely love.

While Thailand’s desserts are less internationally known compared to its main dishes, these succulent sweets are just as tasty. Sweet mango sticky rice (khao neeo mamuang), one of Thailand's most popular desserts, is a satisfying blend of plump rice grains, sweet and creamy coconut milk, and juicy-sweet mangos. You’ll find this dessert all over Bangkok -- from the humblest street vendors to top-tier hotels and restaurants. Another favorite is khanom buang or crispy pancakes shaped like tiny tacos that are often stuffed with dollops of cream and a sprinkling of egg yolk threads. Donut lovers will be delighted to know that Thailand boasts unique varieties of these deep-fried delights. Pa tong goh are the country’s traditional x-shaped donuts. Golden- brown and delicious, Thais often dunk these morsels in sweetened condensed milk or rich custard. Also, don’t forget to try delectable desserts that originated from China; these are very common throughout Thailand.

If you believe you know Thai food inside and out, think again. Each region of Thailand boasts abundant variety. See below:

South
The Gulf of Thailand offers a wide array of fabulously fresh seafood, and this region’s dishes use generous amounts of shrimp and fish pastes. Southern flavors also tend to be the spiciest, but fresh herbs and a splash of coconut milk help reduce the intense heat of curries and soups. This region also enjoys plenty of fresh fruit.

Central
If you’ve eaten at a Thai restaurant outside of Thailand, chances are you were served a version of central Thai cuisine. This region is known for international favorites such as pad thai and the red and green curries many travelers associate with Thai cooking. Dishes frequently feature plenty of fresh produce, complex flavor layers, and accents of lime and coconut. Central Thailand also displays Chinese culinary influences; you’ll find a bounty of noodles and stir-fried dishes here. In Bangkok, you’ll also find many excellent Thai restaurants that take inspiration from street food and home-cooking traditions.

North
Northern cuisine differs significantly from that of the central plains. Many dishes contain pork -- whether tender morsels of meat, fat for cooking, or fried pork rinds (crackling). You’ll find a bounty of vegetables, sticky rice, and noodles made from rice or wheat. The cooler climate also means little coconut milk, and flavors tend to be less spicy overall. Many meals use bitter herbs -- native to this region -- and dried spices to flavor dishes. Some favorite cooking methods include deep-frying and grilling.

Northeast
The northeast is Thailand’s most eclectic region in terms of cuisine, as it shares borders with Myanmar and Laos. Here, cooking methods and traditional dishes are very distinct from the rest of the country. Also known as Isan Thai cuisine, northeastern soups and salads tend to be extra spicy and pungent. This extremely hot food encourages eaters to stretch meals by eating extra portions of sticky rice to cool down the mouth. Meat (including water buffalo) and fermented fish often accompany meals. Isan cuisine’s rustic fish sauce also adds salty layers to many dishes.

Domestic and International Flights
Air travel is a breeze in Thailand; there are eight international airports and twice as many domestic airports. Domestic flights can be a cost-effective and time-saving option if you’re traveling extensively through the country. Domestic destinations include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Koh Samui, Phuket, Krabi, and more.

Boats and Cruises
Thailand offers a variety of boat and cruise options. Boats are a great (and often more relaxing) way to get around in Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River and in the Thonburi district -- located on the river’s west bank and considered part of old Bangkok. Another great choice is to cruise up the river to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya on a wooden barge; you’ll experience the local culture, heritage, and history firsthand. In the southern region, try sailing in a traditional longtail boat, a small ferry, or even island- hopping along Thailand’s beautiful coast.

City Buses, Taxis, and Tuk-Tuks
Bus travel in Thailand is fairly convenient, and Bangkok offers the most routes. Prices are affordable, especially for public buses. Thailand is unique in that you hail buses like hailing a taxi; as you see a bus approaching a bus stop, wave your hand palm side down. If you’re seeking superior comfort for long distance routes, you can also take a VIP bus. These bus services are usually good, but make sure to pay careful attention to your belongings.

Thailand offers some of the most streamlined taxi services in Southeast Asia, and there are plenty of metered taxis available. Tuk-Tuks (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) may be the fastest form of transportation during the city’s busy rush hours. With both taxis and tuk-tuks, the fare should must be set in advance or negotiated before your ride. In major cities in Thailand, app-based ride services like Uber and Grab are available as well.

Train Travel
When in Bangkok, you can take the Sky Train (BTS) or the underground rail (MRT) to avoid road congestion. Thailand’s rail system is well connected overall. With almost 2,800 miles (4,500 km) of track, you can easily travel to just about every part of the country. The trains tend to be a bit slower than bus travel, but the routes are often quite scenic. Local rail is a great choice for discovering Thailand’s countryside, but unfortunately, you cannot access the major shore resorts by train. Most trains offer a good standard of comfort however, some cars lack air conditioning.

Health
The quality of Thailand’s medical facilities varies; major tourist zones almost always have good and even excellent care, while rural areas are less equipped. Rest assured, it's quite rare to contract a rare, tropical disease when traveling in Southeast Asia -- especially Thailand. Common sicknesses are more likely, such as getting diarrhea from eating contaminated food. Proper precautions can help prevent a wide range of illnesses. Please make sure to travel with a basic first aid kit and bring strong insect repellent, painkillers, and any necessary medications. (Unfortunately, traffic accidents are a major cause of injuries in Thailand. Please be especially careful and cautious at all times).

Travel Insurance
At AAT, we strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance for any trip. Unfortunately, travel accidents can happen anywhere and without warning. Thailand offers world-class medical facilities, but in case of an extreme emergency, you may need to be airlifted to another country. Please make sure that your travel insurance is complete, comprehensive, and covers emergency medical flights, evacuations, and major health-related expenses.

Recommended Vaccinations
The majority of cities and tourist areas have adequate, even excellent medical care. However, if you venture to remote areas, you could be exposed to some health risks. For more information, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.　 Please also be advised that certain vaccinations and special prescription medications take time to be fully effective. We strongly encourage you to meet with your doctor at least 6 weeks prior to your trip.

Also, while there is no risk of yellow fever in Thailand, proof of vaccination is mandatory in if you are coming from or have recently visited a yellow fever zone -- this is an international regulation.

While Traveling...
In Thailand, it’s safest to drink and brush your teeth with bottled water. However, ice is typically safe as long as you’re having iced beverages at restaurants. If you have food from a street vendor, chose a busy one with a high number of customers to avoid eating dishes that have been sitting out (even for a little while), and make sure to purchase something freshly prepared. Also avoid eating raw or partially cooked meat and fish. In Thailand, mosquitos can carry diseases. They tend to be active in the early morning and evening, but mosquitos can cause problems at any time of day. Protect yourself by using mosquito netting (when available), top-grade insect repellent, and wearing neutral-colored clothing with long sleeves. Take care to wear pants and socks, as well.

Safety
Due to the issues in Thailand’s southern border, provinces including Yala, Pattani, and Naratthiwat should be avoided by tourists. Rest assured, you won’t visit any of these regions in AAT itineraries. Fortunately, the rest of Thailand is a relatively safe country for tourists to visit. Still, it’s always a good idea to take precautions to ensure your safety and well-being. Always exercise caution and common sense; stay in well-traveled and well-populated areas, travel in a group, and avoid going out late at night. Also, make sure to buy travel insurance so you’re covered in case of theft, loss, or medical emergencies.

Theft and Scams
Dangerous drive-by purse snatching can occur in Thailand, so make sure to keep your bag close to your body and facing away from the road. If you’re wearing a backpack or rucksack, turn it around so it hangs on your chest. Smartphones and other expensive items like cameras, fine jewelry, and designer sunglasses are also easy targets. Make sure to keep these items hidden when in public and when you travel by train or bus. It’s also a good idea to keep valuables hidden or locked away in your hotel room’s safe deposit box. Avoid becoming a victim of pickpocketing by not wearing pants or shorts with baggy open pockets, and keep cash and personal items in a bag or concealed money belt.

You’ll also want to avoid accepting shopping or sightseeing help on the street; these are almost always scams. Touting also occurs in Thailand, and locals may try to take you to shops or hotels and pressure you to purchase overpriced items for a commission. In addition, some ATMs may have illegal skimming devices, so seek out ATMs at well-established businesses.

Road Safety
No matter where you go in Thailand, road safety is a primary concern. Combinations of heavy city traffic and a no-holds-barred approach to driving make traffic accidents a regular occurrence. Motorcycle accidents are especially common. Please take great care on Thailand’s roads, whether you’re a rider or a pedestrian. Whenever you can, make use of the pedestrian overpasses rather than crossing the road. Be extra cautious if you’re traveling with children.

Drugs and Assault
In Thailand, it is illegal to purchase, sell, or possess most types of drugs, and any of these actions may be met with severe punishments.

Assault and violence against travelers and expatriates tend to be rare in Thailand, however, please be cautious and use your common sense. Avoid situations where you may cause a Thai person to lose face; this could provoke a strong reaction. Please also avoid traveling alone late at night.

Official Language: Thai
In addition to your professional tour guide, it’s also a good idea to travel with a Thai phrasebook. Thailand is known as the ‘Land of 1,000 Smiles,’ and the locals will greatly appreciate you trying a few basic words and phrases.

'Sa-wat dee’ = Hello / Goodbye
'Khop koon’ = Thank you
'Khor tort’ = Excuse me / I’m sorry
'Chai’ = Yes
'Mai’ = No

Currency: Baht (THB)
No matter where you go in Thailand, baht is the primary currency. Currency exchange rates are typically better in Thailand than many other countries. Thai ATMs and banks, as well as exchanging traveler’s checks are some ways to get baht, but it’s always advisable to shop around for the best exchange rates. Street vendors, local transportation services, and taxis typically accept local cash only. In contrast, many shops, restaurants, and shopping malls accept major credit cards.

Time Zone: GMT+7h
Thailand follows Indochina Time (ICT) all year long (no Daylight-Saving Time).

During Daylight Saving Time, if it is noon (PST) in the United States, then it is 2 AM in Thailand. When Daylight Saving Time ends, noon (PST) is 1 AM in Thailand.

Internet Access:
Pretty much every area of Thailand offers widespread internet access. Hotels, restaurants, and cafes typically offer Wi-Fi for customers.

Electricity:
Voltage: 220V
Frequency: 50hz

Common Plug Types: A, B, and C
Thailand uses a variety of plug types, so we highly recommend that you bring universal plug adapters.

New Year and Popular Festivals:
Thailand celebrates a wide variety of festivals throughout the year, including Western New Year and Thai New Year (Songkran) in April. During many Thai festivals, travel can be extra challenging, therefore you’ll want to arrange your trip well in advance. Some shops, offices, and restaurants may also be closed. Yet, Thailand’s unique celebrations are certainly worth seeing; there’s everything from Songkran (water festival) to Thailand’s beloved Loi Krathong (floating lantern festival). Speak with an AAT representative to see if your Thailand trip falls on one of the country’s major holidays.

At All Asia Tours, we are always happy to provide you with the extensive advice and information you need as you prepare for your journey. Please never hesitate to ask.