What currency should I use in Thailand?

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). It is recommended to bring USD or EUR to exchange locally, or use travel cards for ATM withdrawals.

Is street food safe in Thailand?

Generally, yes. Choose stalls that look hygienic and have a high turnover of customers to ensure the food is fresh.

What is the dress code for visiting temples in Thailand?

Temples require respectful attire. You must cover your shoulders and knees. Sleeveless tops and short shorts are not allowed.

How can I avoid taxi scams in Bangkok?

Always ask the driver to use the meter ('Meter On, Please'). Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps like 'Grab' for fixed prices.

First Time in Thailand? Essential Travel Guide & Tips for Beginners

Q: When is the best time to visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand is during the dry season, from November to February, when the weather is cooler and there is less rain.

Are you planning your first trip to Thailand? From Bangkok, where vibrant city culture meets local life, to Chiang Mai with its ancient temples amidst nature, and Phuket offering relaxation by emerald seas, Thailand offers unique charms in every region you visit.

The excitement might be briefly overshadowed by the overwhelming tasks of booking flights and figuring out local precautions. But don't worry. In this article, we will cover the essential information you must know before leaving for Thailand.

View of Wiang Kum Kam in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand Travel Guide

Pre-Travel Essentials: Flights & Weather

Flights: When and How to Book?

Flight prices to Thailand vary depending on the season. Generally, the dry season (November to February) is the high season, while the rainy season (June to October) is considered the low season. During the high season, demand increases, leading to higher ticket prices.

You can choose between Low-Cost Carriers (LCC) and Full-Service Carriers (FSC). It is recommended to compare prices and included services (baggage, meals, etc.) before deciding. Usually, booking at least 3 months in advance allows you to purchase tickets at a reasonable price.

Destination	Avg. Flight Time (from Asia)	Major Airlines	Round Trip Economy (Approx.)
Bangkok (BKK)	5.5 ~ 6 Hours	Thai Airways, Korean Air, AirAsia, etc.	$230 ~ $460 USD
Chiang Mai (CNX)	5.5 ~ 6 Hours	Thai Airways, Korean Air, Jeju Air, etc.	$300 ~ $600 USD
Phuket (HKT)	Approx. 6.5 Hours	Thai Airways, Korean Air, Jin Air, etc.	$230 ~ $530 USD

Weather & Outfit: When is the Best Time to Visit?

Thailand has a tropical climate and is hot all year round, but the seasons are largely divided into three.

Dry Season (Nov-Feb): With less rain and relatively cooler temperatures, this is the most pleasant time to travel.
Hot Season (Mar-May): The hottest time of the year, where temperatures can reach near 40°C (104°F) during the day.
Rainy Season (Jun-Oct): It is hot and humid, with frequent short and intense showers known as 'squalls'.

Basic attire should consist of breathable summer clothes like short sleeves and shorts. However, since air conditioning in shopping malls and public transport can be strong, it is useful to bring a light jacket. Also, when visiting the Grand Palace or temples, there are dress codes restricting exposure, so you will need long clothes to cover your shoulders and knees.

Thai Currency (Baht) & Exchange

The official currency of Thailand is the 'Baht (THB)'. Cash usage is common locally, so exchanging money is essential.

The most efficient way to exchange money is to bring major currencies like USD or EUR and exchange them at local exchange counters in Thailand. Places like 'Super Rich' in Bangkok are known for offering good rates. Alternatively, preparing a travel card like 'Wise' or 'Revolut' to withdraw cash from local ATMs as needed is also a great alternative.

Exchange Rate Info

The Thai Baht exchange rate fluctuates daily, but generally, $1 USD is approximately 35 THB.

To easily calculate prices locally, a convenient method is to divide the Baht amount by 35 to get the approximate USD value.

For example, if an item costs 100 Baht, '100 / 35 ≈ $2.85 USD', allowing you to quickly estimate and manage your budget.

Types of Thai Currency

Both banknotes and coins are used in Thailand.

Banknotes: 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 Baht (10 Baht notes are rare)

Thai Banknotes

Coins: 10, 5, 2, 1 Baht

Thai Coins

Top Destinations & Recommended Food

Major Travel Cities

Thailand is vast, and each region has distinct characteristics. Let's look at cities that fit different travel styles.

North

Chiang Mai: Represents Northern Thailand with a relaxed atmosphere. It's a favorite spot for 'digital nomads' or long-stays, offering tours of Old Town temples and relaxation in nature.

Chiang Rai: Famous for unique artistic temples like the White Temple and Blue Temple. You can also see the Golden Triangle, the border area between Myanmar and Laos.

Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai

Central

Bangkok: The capital of Thailand, where modern facilities and traditional cultural heritage coexist. Attractions include historical sites like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, as well as huge shopping malls and night markets.
Ayutthaya: The capital of the ancient kingdom, located near Bangkok. You can explore numerous temples and ruins designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Wat Ratchanatdaram, Bangkok

East

Pattaya: A representative beach resort located 2 hours from Bangkok. You can enjoy various marine activities and vibrant nightlife.

Pattaya

South

Phuket: As Thailand's largest island, it is known worldwide as a resort destination with many unique beaches and resorts.
Koh Samui: A good choice if you want a quieter and more luxurious vacation than Phuket. It is also popular as a honeymoon destination.
Krabi: Characterized by unique coastal landscapes created by limestone cliffs. It is a hub for rock climbing and tours to nearby islands like Phi Phi Islands.
Similan Islands: Considered one of the world's top 10 diving spots. It is a marine national park usually open only from November to May.

Phuket

Representative Thai Food

Here are some representative dishes you must taste in Thailand:

Pad Thai: A Thai-style stir-fried rice noodle dish with a sweet and savory sauce.
Tom Yum Goong: A spicy and sour Thai soup with shrimp.
Poo Phat Phong Curry: A dish of crab stir-fried with curry sauce, known for its soft flavor.
Som Tam: A spicy and sour salad made mainly with unripe papaya.
Mango Sticky Rice: A dessert of sticky rice topped with coconut milk, served with mango.

Representative Thai Food

Tips for a Safe Trip: Safety, Culture, and Precautions

Safety Tips in Thailand

Tourist spots in Thailand are generally safe, but travelers should still take personal precautions.

It is best to avoid deserted alleys late at night.
To prevent pickpocketing, carry your bag in front of you and always keep your belongings within sight.
Always be cautious if strangers approach you with excessive kindness.

Thailand Night Street

Local Culture and Etiquette

Royalty and Religion: In Thailand, the King and the Royal Family are highly respected. Insulting the monarchy is illegal, so you must be careful. Temples are also sacred spaces, so maintain a respectful attitude.
Body: The head is considered sacred, so touching someone else's head is very rude. Conversely, feet are considered the lowest part, so be careful not to point at people or objects with your feet.

Final Check Before You Go! Essential Precautions

Transportation: When taking a taxi, ask to turn on the meter ("Meter On, Please"). For Tuk-tuks, negotiate the destination and fare before boarding. To avoid disputes, it is convenient to use the ride-hailing app 'Grab'.
Hygiene: For street food, choose places that look hygienic and have many customers. You must drink bottled water sold in stores.
Scam Types: The "Grand Palace is closed today" scam, used to lure tourists elsewhere, is an old trick, so be careful not to be deceived.

We have covered essential information for your first trip to Thailand, including flights, weather, local info, and precautions. Thorough preparation is the beginning of a safe and enjoyable trip. We hope this article helps with your Thailand travel planning.