Imagine your first steps on the soft sands of a Thai beach, where the murmur of the waves caresses your thoughts. Think of the wonder that will be yours as you discover the golden temples of Bangkok, glittering under a generous sun, a promise of spiritual and cultural adventures.
Imagine winding your way through the bustling streets of Chiang Mai, a kaleidoscope of scents, tastes and colors, ready to reveal its age-old secrets. And what about the islands of Koh Phi Phi, where nature seems to have concentrated all its beauty into a grandiose spectacle of sheer cliffs plunging into crystal-clear waters.
Whether you’re heading for Koh Samui, Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand, Southern Thailand or Phuket, it’s essential to prepare your trip carefully so that you can enjoy these Asian beauties with complete peace of mind.
This article is your compass, guiding you every step of the way as you prepare for your Thai adventure with practical advice, what you need to know about formalities and much more…
Before your trip to Thailand: the essential to-do list
Formalities: check your passport and visa before leaving for Thailand
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. For stays of less than 30 days, French, Belgian, Swiss and Canadian citizens do not need a tourist visa, as they benefit from visa exemption.
A short language lesson to make the most of your stay in Thailand
No, you don’t need to be fluent in Thai, but a few words and phrases can make your trip a whole lot easier. “Sawasdee” (hello) and “Khop Khun Kap” (thank you) will open many doors. A translation app can come in handy in places where the locals speak little English.
How to pack for Thailand: the art of travelling light and smart
Thailand, with its tropical climate, doesn’t require heavy clothing. Choose lightweight, breathable cotton or linen pants, shorts and tops. Don’t forget a shawl or sarong, which can be used as a pareo on the beach, a blanket on a cool night, or to cover your shoulders in the temples.
On the practical side, remember to pack a flashlight (useful for occasional power cuts), an electrical adapter for your phone chargers and a good high factor sun cream (the Thai sun is strong), even a hat and citronella to keep mosquitoes away. Remember to make a copy of your identity papers and store them, for example on Google Drive. That way, you can access them easily at any time.
Arriving in Thailand: your first steps on Thai soil
Change money, but not too much…
As soon as you arrive by plane, you’ll need a few baht for your first expenses. Don’t change your money in the first exchange store at the airport, as their rates are generally the lowest. Do it only for a small amount to pay for the cab. A cab ride from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport to the city center usually costs between 250 and 400 bahts, or around 6 to 10 euros.
- The best place to change your money at Bangkok airport is usually in the basement, on the level of the entrance counters, where you’ll find a SuperRich branch.
- Avoid withdrawing money from ATMs in Thailand, as fees are very high. Instead, change your money in cash. Check that your accommodation has a secure place to leave your money.
- Bring your passport with you when you change money, as some establishments may ask for a photocopy.
Getting connected: local SIM and Wi-Fi
Stay connected by buying a local SIM card. You’ll easily find them at the airport or in shopping malls. This will enable you to access the Internet outside Wi-Fi zones and stay in touch, or plan your days exploring with local agencies.
Getting around: exploring Thailand with ease
Thailand offers a multitude of transportation options, from iconic tuk-tuks to picturesque night trains. For longer distances, consider a domestic flight: they’re often affordable and time-saving. On site, the tuk-tuk is an experience not to be missed, but don’t forget to negotiate the price before you get in. Cabs are a more comfortable option, as they are air-conditioned!
The best time to visit “the land of smiles
- The ideal time to visit Thailand is generally from November to April, during the dry season, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall rare.
- The rainy season from May to October can also be interesting. Don’t neglect this period: the monsoon offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists, which can also have its charm!
Health and Safety: prevention and practical advice for preparing your trip to Thailand
- Vaccinations: consult your doctor or an international vaccination center to find out if you need any specific vaccinations. Recommendations may vary, but it is often advisable to be up to date for hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever and diphtheria-tetanus-polio.
- Travel insurance: don’t leave home without insurance that covers medical care abroad and, if necessary, emergency evacuation. Prevention is better than cure! When you book your flight with your Visa card, you benefit from a range of insurance and assistance packages that can make all the difference in the event of a problem. Flight cancellation? Lost luggage? Medical problems on the other side of the world? Your card could well be your best ally. Don’t hesitate to contact your bank to make sure you’re covered. We also offer Travel Insurance for our travelers. Contact us or book online.
- Mosquitoes: protect yourself against mosquitoes, vectors of diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Carry effective repellent with you, and consider sleeping under a mosquito net if you venture into rural areas. Mosquito repellent is a must. Opt for repellents containing DEET, icaridin or citriodiol, which are renowned for their effectiveness. Wear long, light-colored clothes in the evening, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Malaria: Malaria, transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito, is most prevalent in rural and border areas, far from major tourist centers and beaches. The northern and western regions, bordering Myanmar and Cambodia, are more at risk, especially during and just after the rainy season. For at-risk areas, prophylaxis (preventive treatment) may be recommended. The decision whether or not to take preventive treatment depends on many factors, including your itinerary, the length of your stay and your general state of health.
