Categories Asia

Practical information about Thailand

by weddinginfashion
  1. Climate of Thailand

According to BRIDGAT, Thailand is located in a tropical climate zone where temperatures remain around 28-30 degrees all year round. However, Thailand is a big and long country, so the climate can vary greatly geographically.

Thanks to the southwest monsoon, there are three seasons in northern, eastern and central Thailand, while in southern Thailand the year is divided into two seasons in terms of weather.

Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai – Lampang – Golden Triangle)

In northern Thailand, e.g. The cities of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Lampang, as well as the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. There are three seasons in Northern Thailand:

The hot season lasts from late February to early May. In the hot season, temperatures are high during the day and only slightly lower at night. Light rain may also occur.

The rainy season is in northern Thailand from mid-May to mid-October. During these months, temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees, and the southwest monsoon brings rains when it comes.

The cool season lasts from mid-October to early February. Temperatures are pleasant and range from 10 to 30 degrees. The weather is cooler these months than at other times of the year, especially at night and in mountainous areas. Rainfall is very low during the cool season.

Chiang Mai weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 30 33 35 37 35 33 32 32 32 31 30 28
Average. lowest temperature 15 16 20 23 24 24 24 24 23 22 19 15
Precipitation e.g. 4 9 18 57 162 125 140 217 211 118 54 16
Chiang Rain weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 29 31 34 35 33 32 31 31 31 31 29 27
Average. lowest temperature 13 18 17 21 23 24 23 23 23 21 17 14
Precipitation e.g. 8 14 28 98 213 178 311 358 284 125 59 14
Lampang weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 32 34 37 38 36 34 33 33 33 32 31 30
Average. lowest temperature 15 17 20 23 24 24 24 24 24 22 19 15
Precipitation e.g. 3 9 23 66 160 118 135 186 212 98 30 7

Central Thailand (Bangkok – Hua Hin – River Kwai)

Central Thailand is home to the Thai capital Bangkok, Hua Hin City, and the Kwai River. As in northern Thailand, in central Thailand the year is divided into three periods:

The hot season lasts from late February to early May. During the hot season, temperatures stay between 25-34 degrees both at night and during the day. In March and April the rainfall is very low, but in May there is already more rainfall.

The rainy season lasts from mid-May to mid-October, and thanks to the monsoon winds, the risk of rain is high at this time. The weather of the rainy season is also characterized by high temperatures, up to 24-32 degrees, so the humidity is at its highest at this time.

The cool season lasts from about mid-October to early February. Temperatures range from an average of 21 to 32 degrees. It can be relatively hot during the day, while towards the evening and at night the air is cooler.

Bangkok weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 32 33 34 35 34 33 33 33 32 32 31 31
Average. lowest temperature 21 23 25 26 26 26 26 26 25 25 24 21
Precipitation e.g. 13 20 42 91 248 157 175 220 334 292 50 6
Hua Hin weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 30 31 32 34 34 33 33 33 32 31 30 30
Average. lowest temperature 22 23 25 26 26 26 26 26 25 25 24 23
Precipitation e.g. 12 15 54 46 109 79 93 71 120 246 101 8
Average seawater temperature 28 28 29 30 30 30 29 29 29 29 29 28
Kanchanaburi weather statistics (Kwai River): OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 33 36 37 38 36 35 34 34 34 32 32 31
Average. lowest temperature 20 22 24 26 26 26 25 25 25 24 22 20
Precipitation e.g. 4 18 29 79 145 86 103 98 201 209 59 6
Phitsanulok weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 32 34 36 37 36 34 33 33 33 32 32 31
Average. lowest temperature 19 21 24 25 25 25 25 25 25 24 22 19
Precipitation e.g. 4 14 27 56 171 166 179 248 247 263 33 11

East Coast of Thailand (Trat Province and Rayong plus Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Koh Kood and Koh Mak)

Rayong Beach Resort is located on the east coast of Thailand with convenient access to Koh Samet Island. On the east coast is also the province of Trat, which includes the islands of Koh Chang, Koh Kood and Koh Mak. On the east coast of Thailand, the year is divided into three periods:

The hot season lasts from late February to early May, when temperatures typically range from 22 to 34 degrees. During these months, temperatures are high both day and night, in addition to high humidity.

The rainy season lasts from mid-May to mid-October. Thanks to the southwest monsoon, the risk of rainfall is high at this time. Temperatures are comfortable and range from 24 to 32 degrees. Some islands in this area may be difficult to access at this time of year due to monsoon rains.

The cool season lasts from mid-October to early February. The cool season is relatively dry, with temperatures remaining between 20-32 degrees. December and January are the coldest months.

Rayong Weather Statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 32 33 33 34 34 33 32 32 32 32 33 32
Average. lowest temperature 22 25 26 27 27 27 27 26 25 25 23 21
Precipitation e.g. 21 37 70 82 199 165 172 132 255 194 51 6
Average seawater temperature 27 28 29 30 30 30 30 29 29 29 29 28

Eastern coast of southern Thailand (eastern mainland and Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao)

Off the east coast of southern Thailand are the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. The popular holiday islands have two seasons:

The dry season runs from January to the end of September. During this time, temperatures are high and rise to an average of 24-32 degrees. There are plenty of sunny hours, so the dry season is a great time to vacation in these parts of Thailand. Occasionally, however, short but severe showers may occur.

The rainy season lasts from October to the end of December, and there is heavy rainfall throughout the season. However, temperatures still remain between 20-35 degrees, so humidity is also high.

Koh Samui weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 28 29 31 32 33 32 32 32 31 30 29 29
Average. lowest temperature 24 25 26 26 26 26 25 25 25 24 24 24
Precipitation e.g. 90 30 30 80 160 100 120 100 130 290 430 150
Average seawater temperature 26 27 27 28 28 28 28 28 28 27 27 27
Koh Phangan Weather Statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 29 30 31 32 33 32 32 32 32 31 30 29
Average. lowest temperature 24 25 26 26 26 26 25 25 25 25 24 24
Precipitation e.g. 144 33 50 86 158 93 131 106 113 266 527 203
Average seawater temperature 28 28 29 30 30 30 30 30 29 29 29 28
Koh Tao Weather Statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS Christmas
Average. highest temperature 29 29 30 32 32 31 31 31 31 30 29 29
Average. lowest temperature 22 23 24 25 25 24 24 24 24 23 23 22
Precipitation e.g. 123 39 54 85 172 118 146 167 141 275 463 188
Average seawater temperature 28 28 29 30 30 30 29 29 29 29 29 28

Western coast of southern Thailand (western side of the mainland, including Khao Lak, Phuket and Krabi, and Koh Lanta, Koh Ngai, Koh Mook and Koh Kradan)

The popular beaches of Khao Lak, Phuket and Krabi are located on the west coast of southern Thailand. Off the coast, on the other hand, are the islands of Koh Lanta, Koh Ngai, Koh Mook and Koh Kradan. Both the mainland and the islands have two seasons:

The dry season lasts from November to March. During these months, you can enjoy high temperatures of 21-32 degrees and sunshine, and there is almost no water coming. The dry season is definitely the best time to head to this part of Thailand.

The rainy season lasts from April to October. Temperatures are still high and range from 20 to 31 degrees. However, the probability of rain is high, and because of the rains, many of the islands may also be difficult to access. We therefore recommend heading to the east coast of southern Thailand if you want to travel during these months, for example by island jumping.

Khao Lak Weather Statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 32 34 34 34 33 33 32 32 32 32 32 32
Average. lowest temperature 23 23 23 24 25 25 25 25 24 24 23 23
Precipitation e.g. 30 33 79 115 253 238 256 314 347 352 189 67
Average seawater temperature 27 28 28 29 29 29 28 28 28 28 28 27
Krabi weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 32 34 34 34 33 32 32 32 32 31 31 31
Average. lowest temperature 22 25 24 26 26 25 25 25 25 25 24 24
Precipitation e.g. 15 19 48 106 216 215 217 230 281 298 153 60
Average seawater temperature 28 29 29 30 30 30 30 30 29 29 29 29
Koh Lanta weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 33 34 34 34 32 32 31 31 30 31 31 31
Average. lowest temperature 24 24 25 25 25 26 25 26 25 25 24 24
Precipitation e.g. 10 10 30 110 190 180 270 250 380 310 160 40
Average seawater temperature 28 28 29 30 30 29 29 29 29 29 29 28
Koh Ngai weather statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 30 31 32 31 30 29 28 28 28 28 28 28
Average. lowest temperature 22 22 23 25 25 25 25 25 25 24 23 22
Precipitation e.g. 24 24 54 89 145 137 163 186 194 222 155 64
Average seawater temperature 28 28 29 30 30 29 29 29 29 29 29 29
Koh Mook Weather Statistics: OAK PEARL PAINTING APRIL MAY SUMMER HAY LIFE AUTUMN MUD MARRAS CHRISTMAS
Average. highest temperature 30 32 33 33 32 31 30 31 31 30 30 29
Average. lowest temperature 24 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 24
Precipitation e.g. 24 24 54 89 145 137 163 186 194 222 155 64
Average seawater temperature 28 28 29 30 30 29 29 29 29 29 29 28
  1. When should you travel to Thailand?

As one of countries starting with letter T featured by COUNTRYAAH, Thailand is a year-round travel destination, but for monsoons and seasons, it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary according to the time of travel.

  1. Languages

Thai is spoken in Thailand. English is widely spoken in tourist destinations and is spoken fluently, especially by young Thai people. However, it is always good to learn a few Thai words and phrases.

  1. Currency

According to COUNTRYAAH, the Thai currency is called the baht (THB). Ordinary credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are very common, and most cities and large islands also have ATMs. Please note that some small islands in Thailand do not have banks or ATMs. Therefore, baht in cash must be brought to these islands.
A credit card is usually used as a means of payment in hotels, many restaurants and shops. The farther you get from cities, the less often a credit card is valid.

  1. Price level

Thailand is no longer as affordable a country as it used to be. Tourist destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Koh Samui and Phuket are more expensive compared to the rest of the country. Tourist restaurants are also relatively expensive in rural areas and in cities less frequented by tourists. The prices below are from 2013. The general price level may vary.

  • Food:
  • Street food: 20-40 baht
  • Western restaurants: 500-1000 baht
  • Thai restaurants: 100-400 baht
  • Drinks:
  • Soft drink: 20-40 baht
  • Beer: 80-110 baht
  • Juice: about 50 baht
  • Water: 15-30 baht
  • Other products:
  • Shorts / T-shirt: 100-400 baht
  • Medicines: Significantly cheaper than in Finland
  • Mosquito spray: 60-100 baht
  1. Drink money

Tipping is welcome, but you can, of course, decide for yourself how much to give or whether to give at all. Below are the indicative amounts:

  • Cleaner: 50-100 THB / day
  • Guides: THB 150-300 per day / person, depending on service
  • Drivers: 50-150 THB per day / person, depending on service
  • Restaurants: In most restaurants, a service charge is included in the price and therefore there is no need to pay a separate gratuity. In this case, your invoice will show “10 percent service charge”. If the invoice does not mention the service fee, you can calculate 5-10 percent of the total amount of the invoice as drinking money, if the service and food have been good.
  1. Time difference

The time difference between Thailand and Finland varies depending on whether Finland has summer time or winter time.
In summer +4 hours: when the clock is 12 in Finland, in Thailand it is 16. In
winter +5 hours: when the clock is 12 in Finland, in Thailand it is 17.

  1. Electricity

In Thailand, the voltage is the same as in Finland, ie 220 V. An adapter is not required, because Thai sockets are suitable for both local flat plugs and standard rounded pins in Finland.

  1. Telephone and internet

According to ALLCITYCODES, the international dialing code for Thailand is +66. In Thailand, making and receiving a call can be expensive. Check your mobile phone coverage and prices with your mobile operator.
There are internet cafes all over Thailand. Most hotels have WiFi, but many hotels charge extra for use.

  1. Security

Like most other countries in Southeast Asia, Thailand is a safe destination for tourists. There is generally very little crime in Thailand and Thais are accustomed to tourists.
Tuktuk drivers who travel near major tourist destinations usually charge very high fares or transport you to shops that pay them a commission on the purchases you make. Beware of people who go to talk and suggest participating in games or ask to join the show. This almost always gets expensive, and isn’t a pleasant experience anyway. We do not recommend buying diamonds or other gemstones if you are unsure.
When you always follow the safety instructions in this guide, you don’t have to worry unnecessarily.

  1. Meals and beverages

Thai food is delicious and has spread all over the world. In Thailand, many culinary experiences await you. The dishes are usually healthy and use a lot of rice, noodles, meat, vegetables and a lot of different spices.
Don’t be afraid to try the dishes of the street restaurants, as they often offer really delicious taste experiences. As a rule of thumb, street restaurants with a lot of customers can be recommended. This means that the food does not have to stand for a long time, so it also does not get spoiled.
Worth tasting are, for example:

  • Khao man kai or Hainan chicken (rice, garlic and fried chicken with spicy sauce)
  • Som Tam (spicy papaya salad)
  • Gai med mamuang (chicken, roasted cashews and vegetables with chili and garlic)
  • Kao pad (classic “fried rice.” Served with meat, shrimp or egg and onion, tomato and garlic / chili)
  • Tom kha gai (soup with coconut milk, lemongrass, chicken and galangal or Asian ginger)

Use only bottled water as drinking water. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere. Never drink tap water.

  1. Your luggage

We use many different airlines on our trips to Thailand, so the amount of baggage allowed can vary for both checked-in suitcases and hand luggage. Baggage information can be found on the flight ticket. You can also contact us if you have any questions about our luggage.
If your trip includes a domestic flight in Thailand, the amount of luggage is also limited.
Make sure you have all the essentials in your hand luggage. Essential goods include passports, airline tickets, insurance documents, credit cards, money, prescriptions and vital medicines. In addition, you should pack a camera, binoculars, computer and tablet, as well as chargers and adapters in your hand luggage.
Due to the air conditioning, it can get cold on the plane, so pack a warm sweater or windbreaker in your hand luggage.

  1. Airport transfers

When you arrive at the airport in Thailand, you will be met by our local representative, who will be identified by a sign bearing your name in the Arrivals Hall. You will also be transported to the airport on the day of departure. The departure time of the transfer on the day of departure will be notified to you upon arrival in Thailand.

  1. Etiquette and cultural differences

Experiencing cultural and etiquette differences is one of the pleasures of traveling, and it is important to respect these differences. The saying goes “in a country the way of the country,” and that’s why we’ve put together tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your trip to Thailand.

  • If you’re angry, don’t let it show up. Showing irritation or frustration by shouting or rude behavior is extremely bad and degrading behavior, and it never results in any good.
  • NEVER talk in a disrespectful tone about the royal family! This can result in severe punishment, up to 15 years in prison!
  • In places with a lot of people (markets, train stations, movies, etc.), the Thai national anthem can be played from the speakers from time to time. When this happens, people stop to stand still. In this situation, you should also show respect by doing the same.
  • Avoid wearing shorts, short bottoms, and sleeveless shirts, especially in temples, shrines, and places with few tourists.
  • Always take your shoes off when you step into a private home or temple.
  • Avoid swimming and sunbathing naked on the beaches, which are mainly local. On tourist beaches, naku-swimming and sunbathing in the topless is quite common.
  • Do not pose for photos in front of the Buddha statue, and never climb the statue.
  • Touching a person’s (including a child’s) head is believed to bring bad luck. The head is considered the holiest part of the body. If you accidentally touch the head, apologize immediately.
  • The feet are considered the dirtiest part of the body, so never touch others with your feet and point anything at the foot.
  • Chopsticks should not be left in an upright rice bowl, but should be placed next to the bowl. Namely, the chopsticks in the rice bowl resemble incense, which is lit in temples in memory of the dead.
  1. Gifts and Grants

Thailand is still a poor country in some areas, which is why our local partners have given us the following guidelines on how to deal with donations and giving money:

  • NEVER give money to beggars, especially children. Giving money to beggars reinforces the impression that begging is an acceptable way of life. If children make money by begging, parents would rather send them to the streets to earn than to school.
  • The exception is the elderly and the disabled, who can be given a few coins.
  • NEVER give sweets to children you encounter in rural villages during the trip
  • Try to get rid of the idea that the gift should be material. Most often, just a smile, being together and making friends are the best gifts.
  1. Smoking in Thailand

Thailand severely restricted smoking in 2001, and in 2017, smoking regulations were further tightened. Imports of e-tobacco, liquids used in them and hookahs into Thailand are also prohibited. Violation of the smoking ban will result in fines and imprisonment.

Smoking is strictly prohibited in the following places:

  • Restaurants, bars, clubs and discos with air conditioning
  • Hotels (excluding rooms where smoking is allowed)
  • Temples and shrines
  • Railway stations and their platforms, bus stations and airports, as well as inside trains, buses and airplanes
  • On the beaches (except for designated smoking areas)
  • Amusement parks and playgrounds
  • In pharmacies, shops and malls
  • In hospitals, educational institutions and office buildings

Practical information about Thailand