Thailand information

 

  To help you discover the beauty of Thailand, we would like to share some information and guidelines to deepen your     understanding of Asian and Thai culture. The relaxed and slow pace of life contrasts strongly with the western lifestyle. The friendliness and openness of Northern Thai people is an eye-opener.
 
Kingdom of Thailand

Thailand has a population of 65 million people and is a constitutional monarchy.

King Bhumibol, who has been on the throne since 1946, is very much respected by all Thai people. Although he does not have direct power in the constitution, he commands moral authority, which he uses on occasion to resolve political crises that could threaten national stability.

 

Religion

Thailand is one of the most devoutly Buddhist countries in the world. The national religion is Theravada Buddhism, a branch of Mahayana Buddhism, practiced by 95 % of all Thais. Other religions such as lslam, Christianity and Hinduism may be practiced in full freedom. Buddhism has a strong influence on daily life. The temple is the heart of social and religious life. Monks go for alms early in the morning and live from local people’s generous donations.

 

Seasons/Climate

There are three different seasons in Thailand with every season having its own beauty. November to February is the cool season and is the most popular time of the year for tourists. Daytime temperatures are between 20 to 25°C. The temperature starts to rise in March. April and May are the hot summer months. In June the first rain starts to fall and the rainy season lasts until the beginning of October. During and after rainy season everything is colorful, fresh and green. The weather is unpredictable and can be sunny for days or non-stop rain.

 

Hill Tribes

More then ten different ethnic groups emigrated from China, Tibet and Burma due to political unrest. They all have different customs, languages and clothing. Tribes that emigrated from China (Hmong, Yao) usually live in huts on the ground, whereas Hill Tribes from Burma live in houses on stilts (Karen, Akha, Lisu). Hill Tribe people live in a simple way, in close relationship with nature.

 

Thai Food and Water Hygiene

Thai food is one of the most famous cuisines in the world with delicious sticky rice, noodles, Pad Thai and a variety of curries. Everywhere in the street there are food stalls with fresh fruit, vegetables and typical Thai snacks. For vegetarian people there is a lot of choice including exotic fruit and shakes. Do not drink the tap water, it is not filtered. You can safely refill your water bottles at local refill boxes.

 

Bangkok: Departure Day

You can take the airportlink-metro or meter-taxi to the airport, they are both safe. We promote the airportlink because it is the most eco-friendly way to travel. The airportlink starts at Phaya Thai BTS Station, 2 km from the hotel. If you choose to take a meter-taxi, be aware of the traffic jams in Bangkok, especially on Friday nights.

 

Do's and Do Not's

·Never lose your patience or show your anger, conflicts can be easily resolved with a smile.
·Thai people don’t shake hands, but bow with folded hands, ‘wai’.
·Do not wear revealing clothing such as tops, mini skirts or shorts.
·When visiting a temple, cover your knees and shoulders.
·Women should not touch Monks.
·Remove shoes when entering houses and temples.
·Couples shouldn’t show their affection in public.
·The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching it.
·The feet are seen as the lowest part of the body. Pointing your feet at someone is considered extremely insulting.

·If you make a mistake, just smile or ‘wai’ and you will be forgiven.

 

Time

GMT plus 7 hours

 

Money and Currency

€ 1 is about 40 to 41 Thai Baht

$ 1 is about 30 to 31 Thai Baht

 

Electricity

220V, 50 Hz AC