After much contemplation and speculation, you have finally chosen Thailand as your destination. Travelling abroad is exciting but could also be unnerving at the same time. Do not worry, we will make sure that your plan works out by creating a timeline for you and guiding you step by step.

Pre-trip jitters are no strangers to us, which is why, it is essential to prep yourself for the trip way before the big day! Here are a few tips to make yourself trip-ready and ensure everything’s in place before the D-day! Be it two weeks prior to the trip or just a few days before it, we have got you covered with all the necessities that you need to look into.

Two Weeks Prior

Here are some questions you may have before you head on to that fun trip in Thailand:

What are the Important Documents Required to Travel to Thailand?

Visa – Thailand Visa is available on arrival to Indian Citizens.

The documents required are:

• Application form signed as per passport signature
• Passport with a validity of six months 
• Two passport sized colour photographs taken at least three months prior  
• Proof of stay 
• You must have already purchased your flight ticket, as a copy of your round trip ticket or confirmed itinerary is required.

You can also apply for a Thailand visa online with SOTC.

What Do I Pack?

• Umbrella and rain gear
• Bug spray
• Sun-smart gear
• Hiking shoes
• Heavy-duty deodorant
• Swimmer’s ear medicine
• Comfortable light clothing
• Comfortable shoes
• Some snacks to munch on while you are on your way 
• A book to read

What is the Maximum Luggage Allowed by Airlines?

• Your luggage should not weigh more than 30 kgs for storage in the luggage section of the aircraft. 
• For cabin baggage, the limit is 7kgs.
• However, please check the luggage rules of the airline you are flying as these tend to differ across carriers.

Two To Three Days Before The Trip

Foreign Currency

SOTC provides you with currency notes and Forex Cards which can be used for ATM withdrawals and electronic transactions. The currency accepted in Thailand is Thai baht with 1 Thai baht= 2.26 INR approximately.

Power Banks And Adapters

You need to make sure that you are always accessible. It is essential to stay connected with the people you are travelling with and to have access to information while on the go. Hence, make sure that your power banks are always charged in case your phone batteries run out during the trip. You do not want a dead phone when you reach an unknown destination. Also, do not forget to carry universal plug chargers and adapters with you. Power outlets in Thailand are two-prong round or flat sockets.

Toiletries

• Hand sanitiser is a must to protect yourself from any germs you may have been exposed to during the trip. 
• Toothpaste and toothbrush, though available in the hotel, is a cleaner option if it’s your own. 
• A sunscreen and moisturiser at all times to protect your skin from the sun.
• Your own face wash which you can use anywhere and anytime during the trip to feel fresh. 
• Shampoo and conditioner, since you know your hair type best; the hotel provided ones may not suit your skin.
• Your personal hair comb or brush, which ideally, must not be shared with anyone. 

Clothes

• Swimwear, if you plan to jump into the sea or laze at the resort pool
• A pair or two of shorts to keep yourself cool
• Breezy, light and loose tops to stay comfortable
• A wide-brimmed hat for protection against the heat and sunrays.  
• Flip flops, flats and sports shoes
• A pair or two of heels for the night

Medicines

• Always keep a first aid kit handy with you in case of any emergencies.
• Pain killers
• Antiseptic cream
• Safety pins
• Crepe rolled bandages 
• Skin rash cream
• Cough and cold medicines

The Day of Travel

Food

You could carry some ready to eat food like biscuits, nuts, sandwiches or rolls to keep your stomach full during the trip, or just in case the airline food doesn’t suit you. Homemade food is safer as you do not want an upset stomach on a flight.

Important Documents

• Valid photo identification proofs such as your passport to enter the airport and even to access certain places in Thailand.
• Visa
• A printed copy of your ticket
• Photocopies of important documents such as your tickets, passports, valid photo identification proofs, credit/debit/forex cards, and hotel and other sightseeing bookings
• Scanned copies of the above, which must be emailed to yourself

Insurance

God forbid, if unwanted circumstances were to interrupt your trip or cut it short after the bookings have been made, travel insurance is a way to get some of your money back. Most international travel insurance companies provide you services such as medical assistance on your phone and reimbursement of medical costs during the trip, no matter where you are.

Important Numbers

Always keep handy the numbers of the local Consulate, police and other emergency services as well as of the travel consultants and agents you have organised your trip through.

Hotel Bookings

Confirm your hotel bookings and insist on the payment receipt or booking voucher before you reach your destination. Some resorts also provide pick up and drop facilities from and to the airport. SOTC also organises hotel bookings for you as a part of its Thailand tour packages.

Cash/Card

Credit cards are accepted by most hotels and restaurants in Thailand. You will also find 24/7 ATMs. MasterCard and Visa are the widely accepted credit cards in Thailand. However, do notify your credit card company of your travel dates before you leave and check on the surcharges that may be applicable on international travel.

During The Trip

If you are visiting Thailand, knowing a few phrases in Thai could prove to be handy. Here are some phrases in the most widely spoken language in Thailand:

• Hello/Good Morning- Swasdi
• My name is – Pen xyangri bang
• Can you help me? Khuṇ samarth chwy chạn dịhịm
• Where? - Thihin
• I feel sick- Chan rusuk mi sbay

Tips For Travelling In Thailand

Places to Visit in Thailand - Head to Krabi beach to find a slice of paradise with its endless white sands and sparkling water. You could also explore the quaint town of Pai and explore its famous canyons and quirky cafes. 

Head to Koh Kood, the least populated island of Thailand with lush rainforests and crystalline beaches that will give you some time away from the rush of the tourists.

Getting around - The most convenient way to explore Thailand would be to take the tuk-tuk, ferry, bus, subway or taxi. 

You will mostly get seafood, rice, noodles, meat and dessert or snacks in Thailand.  You could try the – Guay Teow (noodle soup chicken, pork or beef), Som Tam, Pad Thai and Pak Boong while in Thailand. Head to Rang Mahal in case you are missing home and want to enjoy some Indian buffet. 

If you are looking to try out some local dishes, relish Laap (seasoned minced meat), Massaman curry in rich Thai sauce and Gang Jued - Thai vegetable soup.

Tipping waiters and porters is not customary in Thailand since 10% service charge is already added to the bill. 

Social Etiquette in Thailand

• Touching somebody’s head is discouraged, as the head is considered sacred
• Try not to point or nudge
• Feet are considered to be unclean or dirty; do not use them to point towards somebody neither should you show the bottom of your feet
• If you want somebody’s attention, raise your hand
• Thais eat with a spoon and a fork, not a knife. 

Cost of living in Thailand

• If you are looking for a double room in a decent hotel, it would cost you around 1000-4000 B
• Local restaurants could go up to 350B, depending upon the type of restaurant and what you order.
• In case you want to hire a car, you will be charged at least 800B while public transport starts from 20 to 50B. 

When to visit Thailand 

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and April which is perfect for sightseeing. There are hardly any fluctuations in the weather and the temperature more or less remains the same.

To enjoy the rain showers, visit during the months of mid-June and October. 

A Glimpse of Thailand Through Art

Movie – Kaho Na Pyaar Hai, this film starring Hrithik Roshan and Ameesha Patel captures all the scenic locations and spots of Thailand.

Song – Title track Kaho Na Pyaar hai, Phro Nang Beach is where this song was shot and has become a popular tourist spot ever since.