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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
South African tourists who wish to visit the Kingdom of Thailand may now enter without a visa and are permitted to stay no longer than 30 days providing, on arrival, they can produce a confirmed onward air ticket and/or confirmed travel arrangements proving that they will leave the Kingdom within 30 days of arrival.
VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
Thailand has a warm tropical climate with high humidity, which influences its seasonal patterns:
Hot Season (March to May)
- Temperature Range: Daytime temperatures typically range from 38°C to 40°C, while nighttime lows are around 25°C.
- Humidity: High, between 70% and 90%, which can make the heat feel more intense.
- Weather: This period is characterized by intense heat and high humidity, making it less comfortable for outdoor activities. However, this is also a good time for exploring less crowded destinations.
Rainy Season (August to October)
- Rainfall: Heavy and frequent rains occur, with showers often coming in short but intense bursts. Flooding can happen, especially in low-lying areas.
- Humidity: Remains high, between 70% and 90%, contributing to a muggy atmosphere.
- Weather: While the landscape becomes lush and green, the frequent rains and high humidity can disrupt travel plans. This season is best suited for those who don’t mind wet conditions and prefer fewer tourists.
Cool Season (November to March)
- Moderate Weather: This period offers the most comfortable weather, with lower humidity and cooler temperatures compared to other seasons.
- Temperature Range: Daytime temperatures are pleasant, and nighttime temperatures can drop to more comfortable levels.
- Humidity: Lower compared to other seasons, making the air feel more breathable.
- Weather: This is the optimal time to visit Thailand for sightseeing and outdoor activities, as the weather is generally pleasant and conducive to travel.
Mountainous Regions
- Cooler Temperatures: In the mountainous regions such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, temperatures are cooler throughout the year, especially during the dry season (November to March). This provides a refreshing contrast to the heat and humidity of the lowlands.
- Best Time to Visit: The most favourable time to visit Thailand is from November to March, during the cool season, when the weather is moderate and pleasant for travel.
GENERAL INFORMATION
| Country: | Thailand |
| Capital City: | Bangkok |
| International Airports: | – Suvarnabhumi International Airport (Bangkok) – Don Mueang International Airport (Bangkok) – Phuket International Airport – Chiangmai International Airport – Hat Yai International Airport – Chiangrai international Airport – Samui International Airport |
| Area: | 513,115 km² |
| Population: | 71,885,799 (2024 est.) |
| Time Zone: | UTC+7:00 |
| Religion: | Predominantly Buddhist |
| Language: | Official language: Thai English is also widely spoken |
| Currency: | Baht (THB) |
| Exchange Rate: | Please consult your local bank as exchange rates fluctuate. |
| Credit Card Payment Availability: | Widely accessible VISA and MasterCard are widely accepted |
| ATM Accessibility: | ATMs are widely available; carry some cash if traveling to remote areas. |
| Dialling Code: | +66 |
TRAVEL TIPS
| Electricity: | Voltage is 220V AC/DC. Socket sizes vary; bring adapters. |
| Water: | Drink only bottled or distilled water. |
| Business Hours: | Government Offices: Mon-Fri 08:30 – 16:30 Most Businesses: Mon-Fri 08:30 – 17:30; some open on Saturdays |
| Banking Hours: | Mon-Fri 08:30 – 15:30 |
| Photography Restrictions: | Generally, no major restrictions, but respect “NO PHOTO” signs in temples. |
| Tipping: | Not customary but appreciated for exceptional service. In restaurants, leave loose change or 5%-10% in upscale establishments. |
| Vaccination Requirements: | No vaccinations required for major cities or tourist spots. Anti-malaria prophylaxis recommended for swampy areas near the Laos border. Avoid eating ice and raw street food; hotel food is generally safe. |
| Dress Code Restrictions: | Dress conservatively in temples: long skirts or trousers and cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering temples or homes and avoid sitting with feet facing Buddha. |
| Peculiar Customs to Observe: | – Avoid crossing legs in the presence of monks. – Do not disrespect the Royal Family. – Do not touch Thai women without consent. – Avoid nude sunbathing. – Do not raise your voice. – Keep feet off tables and do not touch someone’s head. – Remove shoes before entering temples or homes. – Avoid pointing. – Use a spoon rather than a fork when dining; using a fork is considered rude. |
FESTIVALS
- Wonderfruit Music and Arts Festival: December/January
- Makha Bucha Day: February
- Songkran (Water Festival): April
- H.M. King’s Coronation Day: 06 May
- Visakha Bucha Day: May
- Phi Ta Khon (Ghost Festival): June/July
- Boon Bang Fai (Rocket Festival): June/July
- H.M. The King’s Birthday: 05 July
- Candle Festival: July
- Asalaha Bucha Day: July
- Chulalongkorn Day: October
- Wing Kwai (Buffalo Racing): October
- Lopburi Monkey Banquet: November
- Yi Peng (Lantern Festival): November
- H.M. The Late King’s Birthday: 05 December
- Constitution Day: 10 December
MAP
“One of the dreams on my wish list is to spend more time in Thailand.”
– Kevin Kwan