Answers to Questions About Thailand
Essential to Remember
Thailand FAQ: 30-day visa exemption, tropical climate (hot and humid), tap water not drinkable, taxi with meter only, currency is baht, no drugs. Simple preparation, overall high safety. Ideal period: November to February.
I was browsing another travel blog and got the idea to write an article about Thailand.
In this article, I will quickly address common misconceptions!
  ;What is the standard of living in Thailand?
Thailand is a country where the value for money is very low compared to France, whether for accommodation, food, or excursions. I can even tell you it is 2 to 5 times cheaper than France; plan on 8€ for an hour massage, 10 euros for a single room in a budget hotel!
Did you know?
The Thai baht has the particularity of having impressive monetary stability: it has varied little against the euro between 2010 and 2024. This makes Thailand a budget-predictable destination, unlike countries like Turkey or Argentina.
What is the best time to go to Thailand?
First, avoid the rainy season from August to October although depending on the region you go to, there will be more or less rain; it can rain for a few hours or several days in a row at regular times!
It is preferable to go from November to February when temperatures are not too high, because from March to July, temperatures can average 30°C to 35°C during the day.
  ;What is the time difference and flight duration?
5 hours ahead of Paris in summer and 6 in winter, it takes 12 hours of flight to reach Bangkok from Paris.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Visa | 30 days exempted |
| Vaccinations | Hepatitis A, B recommended |
| Currency | Baht (~40 = 1€) |
| Voltage | 220V, plugs type A, B, C |
| Time difference | +5h (summer) / +6h (winter) |
Is a visa required when entering Thailand for a tourist stay of less than 30 days?
No, the visa is free for French citizens and there are services to extend the visa by 15 days by leaving the country via land border.
  ;How is the road traffic?
My experience
On my first trip to Thailand, I was surprised by the “customer service” aspect everywhere: hoteliers, drivers, street vendors, all extremely attentive. It is the culture of “kreng jai” (consideration for others) that permeates the whole society.
The Thai drive like the English, on the left, the traffic is often chaotic and there are no traffic lights on some streets, be careful when crossing!
  ;Is it a country where you feel safe?
From my experience, it is a country where you feel good and welcomed; although you have to be careful not to hang around late at night, in remote places alone, and while drunk! Especially be careful in border areas!
  ;Where are the best places in Thailand?
Bangkok, the north for its temples and different ethnic groups; and the south for its beaches!
Advantages
- 30-day visa exemption for French nationals
- Very low cost of living
- Welcoming population
- High security
- Excellent cuisine everywhere
Disadvantages
- Monsoon from June to October
- Pollution in Bangkok in March-April
- Pickpockets in tourist areas
- Non-potable water (bottled water mandatory)
- Dengue risk in certain regions
Is it recommended to go only with adults?
Thailand is a country for all audiences.
  ;Where are the most beautiful beaches?
I would say in the south, with an area where the islands are numerous and each one has its own charm! Koh tao or Koh phi phi for diving, Koh Samui for its tranquility, the islands in the Koh Tarutao archipelago or Koh Bulon for their naturalness.
  ;What are the best diving sites?
The classic trap to avoid
Never swim in the ocean in Thailand without checking for box jellyfish: these jellyfish can be deadly. The riskiest periods are from October to December, especially on Koh Phangan and Koh Lanta. Check with the locals.
Cruises on the Similan and Surin are regularly organized with magnificent diving spots! Koh tao is full of very diverse marine life with very affordable diving schools! Koh phi phi and Koh lipe are also must-see!
  ;What is the means of transportation to get around?
The bus is the easiest and cheapest way, but be careful of theft, I have experienced it myself, do not leave anything in your checked bag!
  ;Do Thai people speak English?
Other readings that follow the same logic: our feedback on snorkelling in Bali which sets the tone, the practical guide on places to party for concrete details, and finally best-of 10 best if you want to extend the reflection.
They speak English and you should know that some even speak French. Don’t worry, when buying, they often have a calculator which makes bargaining easier!
  ;Is there prostitution everywhere?
Even though the country is known for its sex tourism, it remains confined to big cities and tourist areas. You just need to avoid certain neighborhoods to not encounter this phenomenon.
Other readings that follow the same logic: our feedback on best-of the 10 which sets the tone, the practical guide on snorkelling in Bali for concrete details, and finally Thailand travel guide if you want to extend the reflection.
Do you need a visa for Thailand?
No, exemption for 30 days upon arrival by plane. 60 days via embassy before departure.
What is the best period?
November to February: dry weather, bearable temperatures. Avoid June-October (monsoon).
How much do you need per day in Thailand?
30-50€ for backpackers, 60-100€ for comfort, 200€+ for luxury.
