Таїланд
The enchanting Thailand attracts thousands of tourists with its tropical beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a blend of antiquity with modern civilization. It is washed by the Andaman Sea, part of the Indian Ocean, to the west, and by the Gulf of Thailand, part of the Pacific Ocean, to the east. The official language is Thai, but English is spoken in tourist centers. The official currency is the Thai baht. It’s better to bring dollars or euros with you. However, note that bills of $50 and below are exchanged at a lower rate.
Seasonality of Recreation:
Summer in Thailand lasts all year round, but the most favorable months for vacation are considered to be from October to mid-March. The air temperature is around 28 degrees Celsius during the day, and the water temperature is about 23-25 degrees Celsius. Prices for accommodation and activities are highest during this period. However, from July, the rainy season begins and lasts until mid-October.
Visa Regime:
You can apply for a visa before arriving in Thailand (for a stay of up to 60 days) or upon arrival (for no more than 15 days). The cost of a visa on arrival (processing time 4-5 days) is $40, and $57 after arrival. Required documents include a passport (valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure), a completed application form (in English), 1 photo, a letter from the employer in English, a bank statement (at least $650), and an airline ticket.
Etiquette and peculiarities of the country:
When visiting Thailand, it is important not to behave aggressively or loudly. Thais are Buddhists, so they are polite and peaceful. It is common to bargain here, just step away from the seller, otherwise you may not be able to give in. In public places it is better to refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol.
National cuisine:
The most popular dish of Thai cuisine is Tom Yam Kung. This is a soup with lots of shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes and lime leaves, cooked in coconut milk and served with coconut cream. Another favorite salad is Som Tam, which can be ordered with crabs or fermented fish sauce. Pad Thai, a rice noodle stir-fried with shrimp and numerous other ingredients, is a big hit with tourists.
Interesting places to visit:
Thailand is famous for one of the most beautiful places in the world – the Raleigh Peninsula, surrounded by huge rocks. Here you can enjoy breathtaking views. An interesting place is the floating market in Pattaya, which has become one of the main attractions of the country. For lovers of the underwater world, the islands of Surin, Ko Tao and Similan are ideal, and an excursion to a crocodile farm will interest exotic lovers.
What to bring:
Among the souvenirs that can be purchased in Thailand are high-quality crocodile and python leather products. Also popular are different varieties of rice, Thai blue tea from an orchid. Among the drinks, we recommend Sang Som rum, Thai whiskey, and Yadongo, a scorpion-infused liquor.
