Moving to THAILAND

Have you decided to Move to Thailand ?
Whether you’re planning a tourist trip or a business relocation, here’s what you should know before you go.

General Overview

• Official country name: Kingdom of Thailand
• Location: Southeast Asia
• Capital city: Bangkok
• Official language: Thai
• Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
• Time zone: UTC+7

Culture & Traditions

• Key customs:
  • Respect for the monarchy is deeply ingrained.
  • The “wai” (hands pressed together in greeting) is a common form of respect.
  • Removing shoes before entering homes or temples is expected.
  • Buddhism influences daily life, including etiquette and behavior.
• Public holidays: 19 official holidays (some vary annually), including:
  • New Year’s Day (Jan 1)
  • Makha Bucha Day (Buddhist holiday, Feb/March)
  • Songkran (Thai New Year, April 13-15)
  • King’s and Queen’s birthdays
  • Loy Krathong (festival of lights, November)
• Traditional dishes & drinks:
  • Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, Som Tam (papaya salad), Green Curry
  • Local drinks: Thai iced tea, Chang and Singha beer, Mekhong whiskey
• Languages spoken & common expressions:
  • Thai is the main language; English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Common phrases:
    • “Sawasdee krub/ka” (Hello – male/female)
    • “Khop khun krub/ka” (Thank you – male/female)
    • “Mai pen rai” (No worries)
• Clothing & behavior:
  • Modest clothing is required at temples (cover shoulders and knees).
  • Public displays of affection are uncommon.
  • Avoid touching people’s heads or pointing feet at others.

Demographics & Society

• Total population: ~71 million
• Major ethnic groups: Predominantly Thai, with Chinese, Malay, and hill tribe minorities
• Main religion: Buddhism (~95% of the population)
• General safety level: Safe, but be cautious of scams and petty theft in tourist areas
• Attitude towards foreigners & diversity: Friendly and welcoming, though language barriers exist outside urban areas

Key Cities & Regions

• Capital city: Bangkok (11 million people) – Vibrant metropolis, famous for temples, street food, and nightlife
• Other major cities:
  • Chiang Mai (1.2 million) – Cultural hub, temples, and digital nomad hotspot
  • Pattaya (1 million) – Beach city known for nightlife and expat communities
  • Phuket (500,000) – Popular island destination with luxury resorts and beaches
  • Hat Yai (400,000) – Southern trade and cultural center
  • Khon Kaen (300,000) – Economic center of Northeast Thailand
• Must-visit regions:
  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Rai, Pai) – Mountains and nature
  • Southern islands (Krabi, Koh Samui) – Beaches and diving spots
  • Historical sites (Ayutthaya, Sukhothai) – Ancient temples

Weather & Climate

• Type of climate: Tropical
• Average temperatures: 25-35°C (77-95°F) year-round
• Best times to visit: November to February (cool season, less humidity)

Practical Information

• Entry requirements:
  • Visa-free for up to 30 days for many nationalities
  • Longer stays require visas (Tourist, Work, or Retirement visa)
• Local transportation:
  • Affordable options: Tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, buses
  • BTS Skytrain and MRT subway in Bangkok
  • Domestic flights for intercity travel
• Cost of living:
  • Rent: $300–$800/month (higher in Bangkok)
  • Street food: $1–$3 per meal, restaurants: $5–$15
  • Public transport: $1–$5 per trip
• Electrical outlets & voltage: Type A, B, C; 220V
• Emergency numbers:
  • Police: 191
  • Medical emergencies: 1669
  • Tourist police: 1155

Visitor Tips

• Gestures to avoid:
  • Do not touch someone’s head.
  • Avoid pointing feet at people or Buddha statues.
  • Speaking negatively about the King is illegal.
• Specific regulations:
  • Alcohol sales restricted from 2–5 PM.
  • Smoking bans on some beaches.
• Integration tips:
  • Learning basic Thai phrases helps with daily interactions.
  • Showing respect for Thai culture is appreciated.
• Potential risks:
  • Traffic accidents are common – be cautious on motorbikes.
  • Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria in rural areas).
  • Air pollution can be high in Bangkok and Chiang Mai during burning season.