Thailand Visa Requirements
For ðŦð· France passport holders
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
At least 1 page required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Japanese encephalitis (rural), Rabies, COVID-19.
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Thailand is generally very safe for tourists. The main concerns are petty crime (bag snatching from motorbikes in cities), common tourist scams (gem stores, tuk-tuk tours, jet ski damage claims), and road safety. Use reputable taxi services or Grab. Avoid demonstrations, which occasionally occur in Bangkok. Some border areas have travel advisories.
Money & Costs
Daily Budget (USD)
Cards & ATMs
Cards accepted in malls and hotels. Cash essential for street vendors and markets.
Tipping
Tipping is not traditionally Thai but has become expected in tourist areas. In restaurants, 10% is appreciated if service charge isn't included; otherwise, leaving the small change is sufficient. Tip massage therapists 50-100 baht, hotel porters 20-50 baht, and tour guides 10% of the tour cost. Round up taxi fares or add 20 baht for good service.
Practical Info
Emergency Numbers
Emergency: 191
Tourist Police: 1155
Ambulance: 1669
Getting There
Main Airports
- Chiang Mai CNX
- Bangkok DMK
- Phuket HKT
- Bangkok BKK
Airport Transfers
Suvarnabhumi (BKK): Airport Rail Link to downtown (45 baht, 30 minutes to Phaya Thai, then connect to BTS). Metered taxis from level 1 cost 300-500 baht plus tolls. Grab pickup from designated area. Don Mueang (DMK): A1/A2 buses to BTS Mo Chit (30 baht). Taxis cost 250-400 baht. For both airports, always use official taxi stands and insist on the meter.
Local Transport
Bangkok has excellent public transit: BTS Skytrain, MRT metro, and an extensive bus network. Grab is the dominant ride-hailing app and is safer than street taxis. Domestic flights are affordable - book on Air Asia, Nok Air, or Thai Lion Air. Intercity buses range from basic to VIP sleepers. Trains are scenic but slow. Songthaews and tuk-tuks are fun for short trips.
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
November-February cool and dry. March-May very hot. June-October monsoon (varies by region).
Cultural Notes
Thailand is deeply Buddhist, and this influences daily life profoundly. The traditional wai greeting (palms pressed together with a slight bow) is used to show respect - return it when offered but don't initiate with service staff. Never touch someone's head, as it's considered the most sacred part of the body. Conversely, feet are the lowest - don't point them at people or Buddha images. The monarchy is revered and protected by strict laws.
Insider Tips
Never disrespect the Thai monarchy - this is not just cultural advice but law, with severe penalties for violations. Remove your shoes before entering temples and homes. Book internal flights and popular tours well in advance, especially during high season. The BTS Skytrain and MRT in Bangkok are excellent ways to avoid the notorious traffic. Eat street food from busy stalls with high turnover - it's fresh, delicious, and safe.
Dress Code
Casual dress fine. Cover shoulders/knees at temples. No shorts at Grand Palace.