In Thailand, the standard Thai language is used, while English is a mandatory subject in public schools and is widely spoken and understood in business and tourist areas. Spoken and written Thai is largely incomprehensible to casual visitors. However, English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial language. English and some European languages are spoken in most hotels, shops and restaurants in major tourist destinations, and Thai-English road and street signs are found nationwide.

Thailand is a very safe country to visit, but it's smart to exercise caution and use common sense, especially when it comes to dealing with strangers (both Thai and foreigners) and travelling alone. Assaults of travelers are relatively rare in Thailand, but they do happen. Do not leave valuables in your room. It is not enough simply to lock valuable items and money in your suitcase. Passports, cash, jewelry, cameras, and so on should always be kept secured either in the room safe provided, or in the main hotel safety box usually available at hotel reception.

The most common way to get into trouble is to rent a motorbike. Riding a motorbike in Thailand can be very dangerous, especially for inexperienced, first-time riders.

Light, loose cotton clothing is best. Nylon should be avoided. Sweaters are needed during the cool season evenings or if visiting mountainous areas or national parks. Jackets and ties are required in a few restaurants and nightclubs. Neat clothes are required for entering temples or palaces.

There are no required vaccinations, unless you are coming from an infected area. Yellow fever certificates are required for those who are coming from an infected area. Please check the latest regulations with your local health office.

GMT + 7 hours.

Most offices open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, except on public holidays. General banking hours are Monday to Friday 9.30 am to 3.30 pm. Many stores open 12 hours a day, seven days a week.

There are 100 satangs in 1 Baht. Notes are issued in denominations of B 1000 (light brown), B 500 (purple), B 100 (red), B 50 (blue) and B 20 (green). There are 10, 5 and 1 baht coin, and 50 and 25 satang. Most foreign currencies and travelers cheques are easily changed at banks, hotels or moneychangers. All major credit cards are widely accepted throughout the kingdom.

Major credit cards such as American Express, Master and Visa are wildly used and accepted. 3-5 percent additional charge may be applied in some stores. Please check with the stores before using.

The electric system is 220 V. Power outlets are usually two-prong round or flat sockets.

Tourist Police / Tourist Service Centre: 1155

Ambulance and rescue: 1669

Police (general emergency): 191

There are many locations where it is forbidden to smoke in Thailand: temples, schools, airports, public parks, hotels rooms, public beaches. You may be fined up to 5000 B for smoking in these places. Vaping and e-cigarettes are illegal in Thailand.