All about Thailand. Useful addresses and telephone numbers

Thailand's national cuisine is influenced by three factors: climate, location and culture. Fertile lands, the possibility of year-round harvesting, the absence of religious restrictions on food - all this has shaped the gastronomic picture of the country. The basis of many dishes is rice; side dishes of meat, vegetables, fish are added to it, and all this is seasoned with a huge amount of spices. The latter fact is a big problem for Europeans, whose stomachs are simply not accustomed to such a load. However, when ordering, it is enough to ask “not hot” (“not spicy”), then the tourist will be brought a less spicy version of the dish.

Thailand is famous for its hot and sour soups tom yam and tom kha. The fiery dish with shrimp and spices will not leave anyone indifferent. Due to the large amount of garlic and chili pepper, people with stomach diseases are not recommended to eat it.

When you come to a restaurant, you should also try sauces with curry and coconut milk. They are served with a side dish of potatoes (kaeng karee), peanuts (kaeng massaman) or greens (kaeng khieo).

Another important component of the national cuisine is noodles (rice, wheat and egg). It is boiled, fried, and added to the broth. It serves as a side dish for marinated pork or chicken, meat or fish balls and even dumplings. Pad Thai - fried rice noodles - is one of the most popular dishes among travelers. In addition to the main ingredient, it includes an egg, bean sprouts, garlic, spices, and fish sauce. As an additive, you can choose shrimp, pork or chicken.

Seafood lovers will find many interesting and very tasty dishes for themselves. For example, you should definitely try baked in salt sea ​​fish with palm leaves (Salt fish grilled on charcoal). The meat prepared in this way is very tender and aromatic. Another option for cooking fish is steaming. It is seasoned with lime, garlic and chili, resulting in an unforgettable spicy-sour taste.

One of the most unusual fruits in Thailand is durian. It has such a disgusting aroma that some establishments even deny entry to people who have previously bought it, so as not to scare away visitors. This spiny green fruit with creamy flesh has earned the title of "King of Fruits." For the first time, it is recommended to eat it by holding your nose, but in the future even the unpleasant smell will not be able to scare you away - its taste is so delicate and unusual.

What to bring as a souvenir and as a gift

When buying souvenirs, foreigners try to choose something that will remind them of the country and the time spent here. Since the tourism business in Thailand is very well developed, vacationers are offered a huge range of souvenirs - from magnets and small ceramic figurines to clothing from world brands.

Figurines and images of elephants

Since the elephant is a symbol of Thailand, tourists most often buy figurines of this animal and objects with its image (masks, kitchen utensils, panels) as souvenirs. You will also be pleasantly surprised by the favorable prices for such little things as beads, handmade boxes, bags and shoes made from natural materials. This will be a great solution for those who need to buy gifts for the whole family.

Alcohol

A great gift for men is Sang Som Thai rum. It is usually drunk with soda water or used as a base for cocktails. Also interesting option there will be rice wine. It tastes a little like champagne, but without the prickly bubbles. For exotic lovers, you can buy a scorpion or cobra tincture (they are simply credited with miraculous properties).

Silk products are something you should definitely buy for your wardrobe. On local markets They sell traditional clothes, as well as modern models that you wouldn’t be embarrassed to wear for a walk around Moscow. The best places to buy silk are in Korat and Surin - although the price is a little steep, the quality of the products will be excellent.

Jewelry

Thailand continues to occupy a leading position in production precious stones, so jewelry lovers should definitely check out their local jewelry stores. However, when choosing such a purchase, it is important to obtain from the seller a document confirming the authenticity of the product and an export license.

Silver products

A good and practical souvenir is items made of blackened silver. In Chiang Mai there is a whole street where shops of local craftsmen are located, here you can choose something for yourself at an affordable price.

In Thai markets and stores whose counters are not equipped with cash registers, it is customary to bargain. However, you can save money in large shopping centers. To do this, you need to choose stores where they prepare documents for a VAT refund of 7%. They will be indicated by a sign with the inscription VAT Refund (analogous to the European Tax Free). You can get money in Thailand, at the airport, but in this case it is better to arrive at the gate a little earlier: the procedure takes some time, and there may be a queue near the window.

What can be taken out of the country

Carried away by shopping, many tourists forget that customs has clear restrictions on the export of goods from the country. For example, you can only take a liter of alcoholic beverages per person. Exotic fruits are best sent to luggage compartment. To export seeds or plants from Thailand, you must have a special permit. The same applies to animals or products made from their skin and wool.

To avoid unpleasant misunderstandings that will end with all purchases remaining at the airport, it is important to familiarize yourself with the list of what is prohibited from being taken out. So, it is better to refuse the purchase:

• drugs, weapons;
• stuffed animals;
• durian fruit;
• ivory, turtle shells and products made from them;
• religious objects and Buddha figurines above 13 cm;
• unprocessed gold bars, precious stones, corals (products made from them must be accompanied by certificates);
• rare representatives of flora and fauna.

Money of Thailand

The national currency of Thailand is the baht (THB), and the small change is the satang. As of November 2, 2015, the baht to dollar exchange rate is 1:0.03. The best way to exchange currency is in banks or licensed exchange offices. Airports and hotels tend to have the least favorable deals. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs. However, in in this case In addition to losing interest on conversion, you will also have to pay a commission of 150 THB.

Restaurants and shops accept credit cards. However, when paying in cash, it is easier to keep track of your expenses, since the exchange rate constantly fluctuates.

It is recommended not to accept banknotes (both baht and dollars) that have visible damage: it will be difficult to pay with such bills in the future. They can only be exchanged at certain branches of Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited or Thai Farmers Bank, and this, in turn, is a waste of time and money.

Where to stay in Thailand

Thailand offers a huge selection of options for accommodation for any period of time. IN major cities Even small guest hotels offer quality service, and the price will be a pleasant surprise. In the provinces, it is better to stay in trusted hotels belonging to global chains.

Bangkok

The most popular streets in Bangkok among tourists choosing accommodation are Sukhumvit and Silom streets, as well as Siam Square and the surrounding area - the largest shopping centers and restaurants are located near the hotels. These areas are also convenient because Rattanakosin is nearby - a real tourist mecca with a large number attractions.

When choosing a hotel room, it is better not to skimp on comfort. The fact is that such amenities as air conditioning and the presence of cold and hot water in hot climates they are simply necessary.

From five star hotels in the capital best reviews President Solitaire, Landmark, Royal Orchid Sheraton and InterContinental received guests. They are located in the city center, from additional services there are swimming pools, massage and spa salons, gyms, and shops and restaurants are also located on the territory.

Hotel Ariyasom Villa 4* – great option for those who decide to plunge into the atmosphere of Thailand without giving up their usual comfort. The hotel rooms are decorated in a traditional style, using natural materials - wood and silk. The restaurant offers a vegetarian menu as well as fish dishes.

Phuket

On the island of Phuket, travelers will find a wide variety of offers for long and short-term stays. It is best to stay in hotels for a few days. Thus, tourists who have vacationed on the island more than once recommend JW Marriott Phuket Resort& Spa 5* and Centara Grand Beach Resort 5*. From inexpensive options The hotels Kamala Beach Resort 3*, Thanthip Beach Resort 3* and Bamboo House 3* stand out.

Pattaya

A large selection of housing in different price categories is available in Pattaya. Quite a few affordable hotels and guesthouses are located on Soi Buakhao and the surrounding area. Room prices vary depending on proximity coastline and season.

Royal Cliff Beach Terrace 5* – a hotel created for romantic getaway. It is simply surrounded by greenery, and the sound of the surf gives peace and serenity.

Travelers choosing a beach holiday may prefer the Pinnacle Jomtien Resort & Spa 3* hotel. The water in this part of the coastal zone is much cleaner, and if there is a storm at sea, visitors can swim in one of four pools located on the territory. However, this hotel is not suitable for those who plan to frequently travel to the city - the journey to the parking lot with a taxi or tuk-tuk will take about 15 minutes. Good reviews tourists also deserved Sabai Lodge 3*.

Samui

Finding accommodation on Koh Samui depends on the preferences of travelers. For example, young people who love fun parties and nightlife are better off staying in the Chaweng area. Hotels Bhundhari 4*, Poppis 4*, located on the coast, offer quality service favorable price. The five-star Nora Buri Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel. There are both regular rooms and private villas.

Along Lamai Beach, which is just beginning to gain popularity, you can find both fashionable large hotels and more colorful economical options. For example, when choosing Rummana Boutique Resort, guests rent not a room, but a bungalow. On site you can rent a bicycle or car, as well as book a diving tour.

Transport

Travelers who have purchased a tour to Thailand from an agency can count on a transfer to the hotel. If vacationers planned their trip on their own, they have a choice of how to travel to the city. You can get from the airport to the center of Bangkok either by taxi or by train. The first option is the fastest, but also the most expensive. The approximate price will be from 300 to 400 baht (THB) (including clerk's surcharge).

The most economical form of transport is City Line trains. The cost of the trip is from 15 to 45 THB depending on the distance, but the tourist will have to put up with a large number of intermediate stops, and the journey will take half an hour. There are also direct Express Line buses from the airport, which will take you to the city center without stops in 15 minutes (fare 150 THB). Landing on public transport is carried out on the lower floor of the airport, so you don’t have to leave the building. Tickets are sold in machines near the platform and ticket offices, and for this you will need local money, which can be bought at exchange offices on the upper floors.

Stops in the city center are Makkasan (MRT Petchaburi Station) and Phaya Thai ( overground metro BTS Skytrain Phayathai Station). It’s convenient to plan your next route from them.

Those who fly to Bangkok for the first time will be pleasantly surprised by how well all the directions are marked - knowing English even at the most basic level, it is very difficult to get lost here. If you have an international driver's license, you can rent a car. There are windows of companies providing similar services in the airport building.

Visa information

Russians do not require a visa to visit the Kingdom of Thailand for up to 30 days. All you need to enter the country is a foreign passport (for minors, a birth certificate) and a completed migration form. If children are not traveling with their parents or guardians, you will also need a notarized power of attorney.

Good news for those whose travel is not limited only to Thailand: the authorities have lifted the ban on the so-called visa wounds. That is, tourists whose stay in the country may exceed 30 days have the opportunity to avoid additional fees. All they have to do is cross the border with Cambodia and return back - they will no longer need a visa.

Safety

Tourist police calls foreign citizens be vigilant and carefully monitor your property. IN public places Pickpocketing is common, and particularly absent-minded travelers risk losing even their suitcases.

Despite the hot tropical climate, the sanitary and epidemiological situation in Thailand is under control. Of course, this does not mean that you can forget about basic security measures. So, drinking raw water and eating street food is quite a big risk, just like in any other country.

Going to night walk, especially in nature, it is worth taking repellent with you: there are mosquitoes here that carry malaria and dengue fever, for which there are no vaccines.

You should also be careful when communicating with wildlife. Monkeys, jellyfish, sea ​​urchins– it is these animals that most often do not reciprocate people’s attempts to take pictures with them and can cause minor but very painful wounds.

Another way to get into trouble is to commit a crime, even without malicious intent. It is important to remember that in Thailand it is prohibited to smoke in public places (fine 2000 TNV). In addition, it is important to choose expressions when speaking on the topic of religion and power: insulting the king and Buddha is punishable by law. This also applies to the desecration of their images and statues.

Useful addresses and telephone numbers

If a vacationer finds himself in an unpleasant situation, for example, he was robbed or there is a threat to his life and health, you can always count on help. Most offenses are handled by the police - tourist (telephone 1155) and local (123 and 1644 - English-speaking). The emergency telephone number is 191, the fire service is 199. On the islands and in the provinces, the tourist police telephone numbers are different: o. Phuket – 07 633-50-15, o. Samui - 07 742-12-81, Chiang Mai - 05 324-89-74, Surat Thani - 07 642-53-61.

If a citizen loses his or her passport Russian Federation must contact the Embassy, ​​where he will be given a free certificate to return to his homeland. To do this, you need to provide a police report on the loss of your passport, an identity card and two photographs. The document is issued absolutely free of charge.

The Russian Embassy in Thailand is located at 78 Sap Road, Surawong, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, the entrance to the consular section is from Soi Santiphap, emergency phone number - (+66 90) 403-36-45, email - [email protected].

Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Pattaya (Chonburi and Rayong provinces) - 353, Pra Tamnuk, Pattaya, Chonburi 20150, Royal Cliff Beach Resort hotel, Royal Cliff Grand building, 1st floor. Tel: (+66 38) 25-04-21 (ext. 2888).

Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Phuket (Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga provinces) 75/149, Patak Road, Chalong, Phuket, 83120. Telephone/Fax: (+66 76) 38-44-69.

How to get to Thailand

The capital receives the majority of international flights. Availability direct message between Moscow and Bangkok makes the road much easier. Aeroflot ships operate daily from Sheremetyevo to Suvarnabhumi, departures are at 19:40 and 21:35, the approximate flight time is 8 hours 50 minutes. In addition, Thai Airways operates direct flights several times a week. If you buy a ticket shortly before departure, the price will be just over 43,000 rubles (as of November 2, 2015), however, if you book in advance, you can find more profitable options. Also significantly cheaper are flights with transfers from S7 and Qatar Airways.

Denis

Thailand is rightfully considered the best resort country with beach holidays all over the world. This feature is characterized by a large number interesting excursions, stunning beaches, the cleanest sea in , a favorable climate in , a peculiar mentality and, most importantly, . The latter is worth paying special attention to, since Thailand is popular among men largely due to sex tourism.

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“Is it worth going to Thailand alone?” - one close friend asked me. “Of course it’s worth it! Go to Thailand alone and don’t even think about it!” - I answered without thinking.

Despite the fact that Thailand is secretly considered a country of purely male sex tourism, a single woman or girl can spend her holiday there very well. And before answering the question of whether a woman should go to Thailand alone, it’s worth thinking about what a woman wants from her vacation?

Sun, sea, shopping - a great beach holiday

Well, of course - sun, sea, unforgettable experiences and shopping. And Thailand meets all her needs. The main thing is not to forget about the peculiarities of the local one.

Pamper your body!

In Thailand, you can get a variety of spa treatments very cheaply and in a variety of ways. Several types of massage, herbal peeling, steam baths, rejuvenating masks, reflexology, aromatherapy. And a Thai massage with four hands! What about foot massage with fish? What woman would refuse such tempting offers; the prices compared to Russia will make you very happy. One hour-long oil massage procedure costs from 150 to 350 Baht, depending on the location.

Next is food. - simply an inexhaustible topic for gourmets. the freshest, in abundance, for every taste. At first you look at them with caution, but once you try them, you will never stop loving their unique taste! There are countless cafes and eateries of all kinds! You can always have a snack anywhere without problems and inexpensively.

Touch the beauty

It is impossible to visit Thailand and not attend a single excursion! And believe me, there is plenty to choose from - travel to the most beautiful uninhabited islands, visiting grandiose cultural and religious places, magnificent observation decks.

And if you came to , then unforgettable experience provided for you. What is it worth, for example, to visit the open ("Safari world") in Bangkok. Wild animals calmly walk freely, are in conditions as close as possible to natural ones, and you leisurely explore the entire territory in special cars. Animals can be fed by hand. You can also watch performances with animals.

There is no point in listing all the excursions, you need to go on them, the choice is huge, both to enrich your cultural education and just for fun.

Evening entertainment

And in the evenings, a lonely woman in Thailand will not get bored. While men are busy looking for sex adventures with Thai women, a Russian woman can attend evening transvestite shows, such as or, if you are in Pattaya. These are colorful costume shows that even children can attend; there is nothing prejudiced about them. If you have chosen another resort in Thailand, then do not be upset - almost each of them has a similar show.

But on a show “for adults” (Pussy-show or X-show), children and even women have nothing to do with prejudices. In Pattaya, one of these is the “Coconut Show”. Demonstration various possibilities Both Thai women and Thais demonstrate their genitals. Thai women smoke with their vaginas, open bottles, blow whistles, and throw darts. Thais spin hoops on their chests, play billiards, and beat a drum. Everything is accompanied by dancing with elements of striptease, but I don’t want to call this “action” a show.

The dances are poor, the costumes are terrible, the faces are stony, even gloomy. At the climax, the “girls” whom we considered “girls”, to the general applause, demonstrate their masculine virtues, which are no longer virtues, but so... Nah.. The jaws of the uninitiated drop. In the end, sexual intercourse takes place on stage, with one couple being hetero and the other homo. It's a sad sight. It feels like all the “artists” have had their passports taken away, and the evil theater owner is beating them with a whip behind the scenes.

However, it’s up to you, my dears!

What kind of entertainment is there if I go to Thailand alone?

Take a walk along Phuket or a similar street in other resorts in Thailand. In Pattaya, Walking Street is considered the “citadel” of Thai debauchery - for general impression One walk will be enough for a woman.

On some forums they write that they met Russian women on Walking Street with their eyes wide open in horror. Nonsense. It's quite fun to walk around. Take a video camera, walk along the bars, filming the girls, and see how they wave their hands at the camera in a friendly manner. And if you gape, you can become the object of attention of men of Hindu (Pakistani) appearance, somehow our girls are especially attracted to them.

In general, it is a matter of choice for every Russian woman: to be or not to be; if desired, even the Thais cannot resist the charms of our women. There are no problems with sex in Thailand. And not always for money, but also for love. By the way, at the end of Walking Street (closer to) there is a Thai guy singing Tsoi’s songs with a guitar, very touching.

If you like to dance, come to discos, there are a great many of them. It may be a little unusual that the main attention goes to men, but you shouldn’t get hung up on such trifles.

Stores and shopping

After having a good time on the beach and hanging out in the evening, what woman would refuse shopping? And there is truly room to expand. From huge shopping centers to numerous shops and markets from Bangkok to Pattaya, Phuket and even the small islands of Thailand. The assortment also shines with variety. You can purchase everything from clothing from famous brands to unique souvenirs and. Cosmetics lovers will also not go home without buying something. Natural coconut oils are great!

By the way, going shopping alone in Thailand is also a pleasure - no one bothers you, you can spend as much time in the store you like as you want.

There are many, many things to see and many things to do alone in Thailand! And, of course, one trip cannot cover and cover everything. But there will be a reason to return to amazing country smiles - without even thinking about whether a woman should go to Thailand alone.

In general, if you suddenly don’t have at the moment a companion with whom you can travel, don’t be upset - you can safely go to Thailand alone - you won’t regret it!

However, if you are a man, then all of the above can be applied to you. The only thing when traveling to Thailand alone is that the local girls will definitely not let you get bored :)

For a holiday in Thailand, tourists choose: prestigious resorts Pattaya and Phuket, as well as hundreds of small islands, as if specially created by nature for a secluded pastime away from civilization. Here you can have a fun time as amateurs hiking and diving, as well as regulars of luxury restaurants and nightclubs. And, of course, it’s impossible to imagine a vacation in Thailand without visiting the snow-white beaches that the locals are so proud of. Experience ancient Thai culture by visiting Buddhist temples where orange-robed monks achieve enlightenment and share knowledge. Gourmets will be surprised by countless exotic dishes, which can be tried not only in restaurants, but also at street vendors. And the famous Thai hospitality, good nature and sincerity local residents make you love this amazing Asian country even more.

Seasonality and climate. When is the best time to go on vacation to Thailand?

Although local resorts welcome tourists all year round, the high season lasts from November to March and is characterized by the absence of storms and downpours and warm, most comfortable weather. From April to October, monsoons dominate in Thailand, bringing rain. At this time, the winds raise high waves, which windsurfers look forward to, and for better results, choose the calm, windless beaches of Krabi and Koh Samui.

Prices for tours to Thailand

The greatest influx of tourists in Thailand is observed in December-February, especially during the Christmas holidays. At this time, prices for tours are significantly higher than in the low season, so it is better to plan your vacation in advance by purchasing tours in advance through the early booking system. So, at the height of the swimming season, a trip for two to Pattaya from Moscow in 2020 - 2019 with accommodation in a 3-4* hotel will cost at least 70 thousand rubles. A package tour with an excursion program included in the price costs 10-20 thousand rubles. more expensive. This is the best choice for those who prefer to combine a beach holiday with active trips and walks. If you want not only to have a great time, but also to save money, choose early booking to travel to Thailand at a price 30-40% lower than usual. You can also save money by planning a vacation during the low season - from May to October. During this period, heavy rainfall occurs only in northern regions, and on popular resorts rains are short-lived and usually occur in the evening and at night.

Types of recreation. What to do in Thailand?

Thailand is the most popular country among Russians East Asia. On its land, modern technology and ancient Buddhist culture have surprisingly harmoniously merged. Tours to Thailand are also chosen by couples with children who need high-quality and inexpensive beach holiday, and lovers of stormy nightlife, here extreme-seekers get a dose of adrenaline and those thirsting for peace and tranquility will be able to comprehend nirvana. Tropical forests await you snow-white beaches, elephant travel and amazing national cuisine, real Thai massage and impeccable level of service.

Beach holiday

The famous resorts of Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Chang and Samui offer excellent conditions for relaxation. The main tourist Mecca of Thailand is Pattaya, where there are over 130 first-class hotels, clubs and restaurants, and a developed entertainment industry. Thanks to the unique location of the resort, the sea is calm and gentle all year round; hurricanes and winds do not reach it, and showers during the rainy season, judging by the reviews of travelers, are short-lived. Phuket - best place for diving and snorkeling, and many guesthouses offering low prices for accommodation, making it popular among downshifters and young people. Koh Chang is an elite resort for true connoisseurs of comfort. And those who appreciate relaxing holiday and privacy.

It’s easy to combine a holiday in Thailand with a visit excursion programs. For short term you can get acquainted with traditions and culture, way of life and history exotic country. The most interesting places to visit are crocodile farms, floating markets, the Nong Nooch tropical garden, Mini Siam miniature park, authentic villages, trips to famous Buddhist temples and the Golden Triangle. And don't miss Turtle Island - National Park and the pride of Thailand.

Extreme holiday

Tours to Thailand - a paradise for lovers of extreme and active recreation. In the province of Nan in the north of the country, ideal natural conditions for kayaking and rafting. Southern Province Krabi is popular with freedivers and rock climbers. Daredevils can test their strength by jumping from the Tan Rattana waterfall. And those who want to see as much as possible during their vacation can go on cycling tours throughout the country.

Attractions in Thailand

Thailand is a mysterious country where you can wander endlessly, and every time it will surprise and enchant with fantastic landscapes, ancient monuments and cities lost in the depths of tropical forests, and the endless turquoise of the Indian Ocean.

Bangkok

Bangkok is an amazing city full of contrasts, where there is something to see for connoisseurs of novelty and exoticism. You can visit Chinatown with a huge selection of goods and souvenirs at nominal prices, go to Rattanakosin Island with historical center. The Silom district, the heart of Thai business, is distinguished by its luxury and splendor. And from the highest metropolitan observation deck Bayock Sky Tower the views are stunning.

Palaces and temples

Nothing is such a shining example ancient architecture and the culture of Thailand, how magnificent it is temple complexes and palaces. The most famous of them are the huge Royal Palace and the whimsical Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. In Pattaya, explore the Temple of Truth, a true masterpiece, the construction of which does not contain a single nail. Buddhist temple Wat Saket on the Golden Mount in the capital is one of the main symbols of Buddhism, and Wat Ratchanadda offers breathtaking views of the Old City.

Step by step instructions 2019 and useful tips.

Let's first decide why you decided to go to Thailand on your own? Many people think that they travel to Thailand on their own only because it is cheaper. But this is not entirely true.

I’ll tell you a few reasons that independent travelers don’t like to talk about.

People travel to Thailand on their own to:

1. Relax not as a “herd”, but individually. To avoid crowds and relax in a calm environment.
2. Stay in Thailand for more than the standard 10-14 days.
3. Stay at good hotel. Really good! But at the right price. Many tourists don’t even realize what luxurious accommodation independent travelers can stay in at an incredibly low price. In Thailand you can rent a house from $300 per month or a villa with a pool from $800 per month - no travel agency will offer this. And this is especially convenient if you are traveling with a child. You can rent an apartment with a kitchen or a villa with a sea view. In this post below I will provide a link to excellent inexpensive apartments with kitchen, in Phuket.
4. People go to Thailand on their own when they want not only to lie on the beach all day long, but also to travel around different places. For example, 3 days in Bangkok, 5 days in Phuket, then travel around the islands. Either, or.

If you just want the cheapest prices in Thailand, and living conditions are not at all important to you, and you are traveling for no more than a week, then it is better to buy the most cheap tour on sale in the summer.

But for those who want to get the most out of their holiday in Thailand, read on.

Step-by-step instructions 2019: how to travel to Thailand on your own, without a travel agency

Russians do not need a visa to Thailand when traveling for up to 30 days. If there are more, then you need to do it, but for the first independent trip To Thailand, 30 days is quite enough. Therefore, plan your trip within these dates. Please note that the day of arrival is the first day, and the day of departure is the last.
A foreign passport is required. English is not required.

How to buy an inexpensive air ticket to Thailand

It is better to start looking for tickets 6 months before your trip. If you want to buy a ticket to Thailand inexpensively, it is better to use a price comparison for different airlines, for example.

Where is the best place to book a hotel in Thailand?

Prices: expensive on holidays, cheap in the off-season. Lowest prices from May 1 to October 30. The highest from December 15 to January 15, as well as on Chinese New Year.
To avoid any unpleasant surprises, book through trusted sites. I like Booking most of all - the lowest price guarantee, honest reviews, convenient filters for finding a hotel, and certainly the hotel will be like in the photo. I choose a rating of at least 8.5 and look at the reviews.

Hotel prices in Thailand:

Do you need insurance in Thailand?

Medical insurance is a must! Until 2019, insurance was not required for entry, but now the Thai authorities have made insurance mandatory. Currently, they are not yet checking at all points, but by the end of 2019 they plan to carry out checks at all entries into the country. And that's right.

Unfortunately, in Thailand, tourists go to the hospital much more often than in other countries (exotic viruses, poisoning, fractures) and are very surprised when they find out that the cost of medicine is more expensive than in Europe. When tourists receive a bill of 1000 euros per day in the hospital, this greatly spoils their vacation. Before the influx of Russian tourists to Thailand, insurance was optional; tourists from other countries usually came with insurance anyway. But the Thai authorities are faced with the fact that Russian-speaking tourists travel without insurance, and end up in hospitals more often than others. There were many cases when tourists took a long time to pay their bills (they won’t let you out of Thailand without paying medical bills), and some tourists even went to prison for non-payment... In general, it was decided not to allow tourists into the country without insurance. So now it’s better to buy insurance in advance, otherwise at the border they will still force you to buy travel insurance, but for triple the price.

What insurance is better to take in 2019?

Most up-to-date information And latest reviews Read about insurance - the best inexpensive insurance of 2019 has been named.

That's it - it's so easy to travel to Thailand on your own!

Advice: We went - we know.
For the first time, many are afraid to travel on their own and often ask for help buying tickets or hotels from intermediaries. Don't do this! In order not to run into scammers, do not trust anyone with your data and your vacation - book everything yourself. It is safe to do this on trusted services, but not through intermediaries.

Let's look at the specific easiest route on how to go.

First time to Thailand. Independent route No. 1 for a beginner - going to Phuket

So, how to go on holiday to Thailand, to Phuket on your own.

1. Buy air tickets to Thailand yourself

To find tickets by best price, let's use the airline search. We compare prices, select the tickets you need and buy. Before the flight you will need to check in for the flight - boarding passes(boarding pass) will be sent to you by e-mail - you will need to print them out or keep them on your smartphone in pdf form.

2. Book a hotel

If you have never been to Phuket, then when booking a hotel, first select or view.
Don't have time to figure it out? Then see Kata Beach or Karon Beach. Kata - inexpensive nice beach, Karon - a beach with white squeaky sand. However, they are nearby and walking from one to the other will take about 20 minutes. Or you can take a few days on one and a few on the other. We are now independent!

Very good inexpensive hotel The Beach by Glitter House:

This hotel doesn't just have rooms, it... apartment with a small equipped kitchen, where there are dishes, a kettle, a microwave, a stove and a refrigerator. The rooms have a balcony with an excellent open view (which is rare in Phuket for inexpensive hotels). Moreover, the hotel is located in quiet place, no evening noise. The beach is about 3 minutes walk.

There are many good hotels in Phuket. Here are the discounts and special offers:

We choose and book a hotel.
Hotel reservations will be sent by e-mail - you need to print them out.

3. Insurance

We buy insurance - if we want reliable insurance at a discount, then we look for it.
The insurance will be sent by e-mail - you need to print it out and always carry it with you while on vacation in Thailand.

4. Mobile communications: you need a local SIM card

To always stay in touch with friends and family in Thailand, you need to take care of inexpensive mobile communications. Here's a life hack: a few days before your trip, order a Thai 4G SIM card online - - discounts up to 60%!
SIM cards are valid for 8 days, so if you are on vacation longer, order 2-3 pieces at once. (and activate as you use it), otherwise you will have to buy it at full price on the spot.

Upon arrival, at Phuket Airport (Terminal 2), go to the ground floor to the DTAC provider kiosk. Show the employee a printed (or on your smartphone) voucher with a QR code and receive a Thai SIM card. The dtac kiosk is open 24 hours a day.

5. What else to take with you to Thailand

On the day of departure, we take a foreign passport and printouts of air tickets, insurance, hotel reservations, and, of course, bank cards and money (depending on your plans). The rest is optional.
You should not take a fur coat and felt boots with you to Tai - it is better to get to the airport by taxi in light clothes. It’s always hot in Thailand, so trousers and a sweater will be enough, everything else for relaxation can be done upon arrival.

6. Upon arrival in Phuket

Upon exiting the plane, we move along with everyone else. After passing through customs, we proceed to the exit from the airport. The airport in Phuket is small, it is impossible to get lost. Before going out, don’t miss the kiosk that sells tickets for transfers to the beaches. We are looking for the inscription “Minibus”.
In the photo on the left are prices for a taxi, on the right are prices for a minibus (3-4 times cheaper). If you are traveling with four, it is better to take a taxi.

We show the auntie at the ticket office the hotel reservation (she needs the address and name of the hotel where to take her), she will sell the ticket. Then we go out onto the street with a ticket in our hands. People will immediately run up, show your ticket and get into a taxi or minibus, which will be shown to you. Let’s clarify: “Caron?”
The minibus looks like this:

A minibus will take you to the hotel. If the hotel is small, then the bus may not go directly to the door, but drop you off nearby. Therefore, it is better to determine in advance on the map or by determining exactly where the hotel is located.
At the hotel you will only need to show your passport and you will be accommodated.

7. How to communicate? Where to buy excursions?

In Phuket there are restaurants with menus in Russian everywhere, and excursions where everything is in Russian - there will definitely not be any problems with the language. We just leave the hotel, walk down the street and see what we like - there are signs everywhere, it’s impossible to miss. However, it would be nice to remember a couple of dozen words in English before the trip :)

However, in Phuket there are many interesting excursions in Russian. You can order in advance online:

A beautiful excursion to the Phi Phi Islands.