Thailand Guide     Thailand Activities & Sports     Thailand's National Sports   Thai Boxing or Muay Thai   Despite of the sport originating from a lethal self-defense, bouts of Thai boxing, also known as kick boxing or Muay Thai in Thai, are characterized by an extensive ceremonial set-up and a show of graceful swaying and weaving of the arms at the beginning of the fight. In a solemn prayer ritual contestants pay homage to their teachers - to the tune of Thai musical instruments, which continues during the fighting but stops during rest periods.   Except for the head, all parts of the body are offensive weapons. The most effective weapons are the knees and the feet. Knock out is the common fate of the loser in Thai boxing, normally resulting from well-aimed kicks on the head.   The sport started in medieval times when wars were fought with hand weapons so that in close fighting the knowledgeable use of arms, legs, feet, knees and elbows could be a formidable advantage. The sport, which was included in military training, was given prominence by King Naresuan in 1560. Before ascending to the throne, during one of many battles between Burma and Thailand he was captured by the Burmese. Knowing of his prowess as the best, unarmed fighter in the realm, he was given the chance of combat fighting Burma’s best. He quickly vanquished all his opponents, who were no mean fighters, thus winning his freedom.   Upon his return, he was given a hero’s welcome Thai Boxing was hailed a national sport. From then until just a few years ago horsehide strips and hemp were used in lieu of gloves.   Thai boxing bouts are commonly held during festivals. Boxing stadiums have been established in almost every province. In recent years Thai boxing has become popular in the West and clubs have been established to promote and teach it in many countries.   In keeping with the times, the rules and regulations of Muay Thai have been up-dated, mainly to reduce the health hazards for the fighters. Nevertheless, it’s still a very hard sport, potentially more dangerous for the fighters than Western style boxing.   Muay Thai takes place in a raised square ring not more than 1.2m above the ground. Each side must not be less than 5.70m or more than 8.20m long. There is a 1m restricted area around the ring for officials.   The contest is divided into no more than 5 rounds, each 3 minutes long, with a two-minute rest period between the rounds. Today boxers wear gloves and red or blue trunks, appropriate to their corners, but no shirts or shoes. A sacred cord known as Mongkol can be worn around the head only during the pre-fight ritual. Amulets may be wrapped around biceps or waists if they are completely covered with cloth.   Eight standard divisions of weight limits range from the Mini Flyweight, no more than 47.7kg to the Heavyweight over 80kg.   There are two judges and a referee who also acts as a judge as well as a timekeeper. The outcome of a match may be in one of five ways:   Knock Out - When an opponent is unconscious or unable to regain his feet in the ring prior to the count of 10.   Technical K.O. - If the referee decides that one contestant is not fit to continue he may order the fight stopped.   One contestant can give up.   When there is no K. O. a decision is given by the judges and the referee on points. Each boxer may score 10 points per round. The winner of the round gets 10 points; the other will get not less than 6. In the case of a draw, each receives 10 points. Scoring is based on the skill, effectiveness and aggressiveness of a fighter.                When one contestant is dismissed from the ring by the referee because of a serious foul, victory is awarded to his opponent. Fouls range from talking impolitely to hitting an opponent when he’s down. If the foul does not put the opponent at a disadvantage or hurt him, the fighter committing the foul is given a warning and has one point deducted but if the opponent is put at a disadvantage or disabled, the one committing the foul automatically loses the fight. The referee can give two warnings; the third warning will mean that the one committing the fouls has lost the fight.   In case of an unintentional foul which causes an injury so serious that the fight cannot continue, the referee stops the contest and decides for a Technical KO or a draw.   For boxers who do not follow the referee’s orders, or for fights considered to be fixed, the judges have a right to declare, "stop contest and no decision".     Takraw (Rattan Ball Game)   The game makes use of a hollow, loosely woven rattan ball which is kept aloft as long as possible by a circle of players who can use their feet, knees, elbows, and heads but not their hands. Footwork is the secret of the superior player. The game is common in various versions in most parts of Southeast Asia. But perhaps nowhere is it played with the enthusiasm and vigor as in Thailand where it is seen throughout the country in the courtyards of Wats and on fairgrounds.   There are certain basic rules to takraw as a competition sport but it is often played without scoring and the participants just enjoy putting on a good show. To the Western observer, it seems to be similar to volleyball yet only one takraw version (called net takraw or sepak takraw) has a similar game philosophy - to hit the ground in the field of the opposing team. In most other versions, the scoring is rather similar to gymnastics. Points are given for the skill with which feats are performed. The more complicated and impressive the feats the better the score (or, if a score is not being kept, the better the audience’s reaction; Thai spectators can be pretty demanding).   The intricacy and speed are often astonishing, and there is a wide range of defined kicks. Among them are the sole kick (using the arch or sole of the foot), the instep kick, the knee kick, the shin kick, the shoulder kick and the head kick.                One of the most amazing is the cross-legged jump kick. The player crosses one leg over the other and leaps up to kick the ball with the instep of the crossed over foot. Another version is the cross-legged knee kick. In this one the player crosses one leg over the other above the knee and then leaps into the air kicking the ball with his crossed over knee.   The most common version of the game is circle takraw (takraw wong), The ball is passed from player to player and each is given points for style, consistency and retrieval of difficult balls. After a set time or a set number of throws, the highest score determines the winner.   The most ordinary version of the game is tossing takraw, which has far fewer rules: the point is simply to see how many times the ball can be hit aloft by the same player. Some can hit the ball from positions, which call for stooping or lying down. A good player is able to keep the ball aloft for ten minutes, and if others join him the group should manage to keep it in play for about an hour.   One of the most difficult versions of the game is called hoop takraw (takraw lod huang). Hoop takraw seems to be the most popular version in Thailand. A team usually consists of seven players (never less than six) who stand at the perimeter of a circle. Hoops are suspended over the center and the players must hit the ball through them during a 30 minute period. Successive teams try to surpass the previous score. One of the best scoring feats in hoop takraw is when a player makes a hoop of his arms behind his back and kicks the ball with his heels through that hoop in such a way that it also passes through the hoop suspended in the air.   As mentioned above, net takraw (sepak takraw) is somewhat like volleyball and it requires a similar net and court. Lots are drawn beforehand to determine placement of the players and the first serve. Near the net, the ball is then tossed to a teammate in the middle of the court, who kicks it into the opposite camp with the aim that the ball touches the ground there. The game proceeds at an incredible pace as the ball is returned almost instantaneously. Some players wear athletic shoes, while others are barefoot.   Net takraw is played in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and other international competitions. The Thais introduced net (sepak) takraw to the SEA Games while the Burmese introduced a variation called imitation takraw, in which a player takes a particular position to toss the ball and all other players must imitate that position.   The Philippines is the only Southeast Asian country where takraw is practically unknown.     Kite Flying     This is a competitive sport and Thailand is probably the only country in the world were competitions are fought with two types of kites. One depicts a male, the other a female.   The female kite, Pakpao, is diamond-shaped, 0.76m long and usually has a long tail. It is normally just flown by one person. Being light, the kite can move swiftly when properly handled.   Chula, the male kite, is 1.5m or more in length and shaped like a five-pointed star. Chula can be of enormous size requiring up to 20 men to send it aloft and maneuver it.   Bangkok’s Phramane Ground (Sanam Luang) near the Grand Palace is the most prominent site for kite fighting competitions.   By tournament rules a minimum of two Chulas and four Pakpaos must compete in a match. A Chula team consists of the captain, one or two handlers who fly the kites and a team of youths who run with the string when the captain gives the order.   The Chula kite’s battle equipment includes a number of Champahs - strips of split bamboo formed into grappling hooks; these are spaced along the string at intervals specified by the rules. Chula kites are organized in size divisions with a minimum of three or a maximum of five Champahs depending on the size of the kite.   The Pakpao uses the long starched cloth tail as a snare, together with a formidable semi-circular string loop hanging from the string that flies it.   There are around fifty rules governing contests between Pakpao and Chula teams. One of them requires the giant Chula to keep within the corridor of attack allocated to it in Pakpao territory. Contests are often timed.   The object of the air battle is to force the opponents into each other’s territorial ground-space. A skilled Chula team can capture two Pakpaos in a single sortie. The rules only allow a maximum of two Pakpao on each sortie, for which the Chula is scored twenty points; should it bring back three, the sortie is considered a draw.   It must not be thought that Chula is always the winner. The Pakpao can be tough fighters and when two Pakpaos make a combined attack on Chula it frequently crashes in Pakpao territory. To be ensnared in a single Pakpao’s loop can be sufficient cause for his downfall.   If a Chula caught in a Pakpao loop can still land in its own territory the Chula is the winner just as if it were the Chula entangling the Pakpao. The Pakpao only scores if the Chula comes down in Pakpao territory.   In case a Pakpao body is lost but the tail remains on the Chula line or the tail is lost but the body remains, the Chula kite landing in its own territory is still considered the winner.   During competitions, the Pakpao kites usually try to attack the Chula kite that has invaded their territory from high above. As soon as the two kites are entangled, the Chula team always has a chance to make it home. The Chula captain will blow his whistle as soon as the entanglement happens, and his team of youths will run with the line to assure just this: coming down in Chula territory.   Aside from the fighting kites, Thais make and fly all sorts of other kites in hundreds of different shapes: owls, fish, faces, serpents and so on, ranging in size from a few centimeters to more than 7 meters.     Fish Fighting     This is another unique sport of Thailand and some of the neighboring countries (the designation ‘sport’ may be as wrong as in the case of dog races in that there is no direct human achievement involved). Fish fighting can be seen only in the provinces as it has been banned in Bangkok.   Fighting fish breeders bring their champions, about the size of a middle finger, in little bottles of water, each in one bottle. Before a contest, the prospective adversaries are placed alongside each other in their bottles so that they may take the measure of each other and work up animosity in the process. Bets are based on the form and reaction shown by the fish.   When fighting is agreed upon, the fish are scooped out of their bottles and carefully put into a large tall jar. Coming face to face, the opponents transform themselves into beautiful creatures, their colours deepening, their gills quivering and widening, their fins and tails spreading out. Every part of the body becomes vibrant with color.   They lose no time in attacking each other, biting fiercely and cruelly. With mouths locked for minutes or sometimes even hours, they flit up and down the water in the bottle, maneuvering for positions. Parts of gills, fins, tails and scales are continually chewed off. This is a fight to death and a drawn fight is rare. During the mortal combat, enthusiasts cast their bets basing their calculations on the amount and severity of the injury inflicted and received by both sides.   A kind of fighting fish called lukpah is indigenous to the ponds, canals and marshes of Thailand. When caught, it is put into a bottle of pond water. Only the male fights. It is distinguished from the female by its more brilliant colors, longer tails and larger fins.   However, the lukpah is now only seldom used in fish fights as has been replaced by another fish called lukmoh, which reportedly doesn’t know the meaning of defeat.     Other Sports   Sailing   If sailing is your game, then Thailand is your playground. If you haven’t heard of the amazing cruising grounds in this part of the world, you either haven’t been sailing for very long or have simply never set foot on a boat. They are world-renowned, not only for their almost perfect sailing weather but for the spectacular scenery and idyllic islands scattered along both its coasts.         On the eastern side, there is a safe year-round haven for yachts, just south of Pattaya and another in Chonburi. There are a few charter boats here if you’d like to give sailing a try. The islands of the Gulf of Thailand offer much to the visitor, being both picturesque and mostly un-inhabited. The area also generally offers good winds, catering to both the novice and more experienced helmsman. The more popular cruising grounds though, are that of the west coast and around Phuket.   With two world-class marinas, one at the northern end of the island, the other midway down the east coast, yacht clubs and the venue of the annual King’s Cup Regatta, Phuket is a sailor’s heaven. There are a number of charter companies offering various different packages, from ‘bareboats’ to those supplied with a skipper and cook. You can take a day trip out on an Indonesian Junk to Phang Nga Bay, the renowned venue of two ‘James Bond’ films or sail to the islands to the southeast, where the more recent film ‘The Beach’ was made. If you want to steer clear of the crowds most of the islands of Phang Nga and the west coast, are un-inhabited. Some have quaint fishing villages nestled between, towering limestone monoliths that soar clean out of the surrounding waters. Dripping with natural jungle, interesting wildlife, caves, hidden hongs (rooms) and tranquility, these islands are indeed one of nature’s masterpieces.   The Ao Chalong Yacht Club, just south of Phuket Town is a popular venue for the local yachting fraternity. This club is well known for its friendliness towards visitors and if you’re keen and want to know anything ‘boating’ they’re always willing to chat. They also hold monthly regattas, which are well attended and if you would like to crew, you never know, there may be a boat looking for a hand.   Thailand, a place where you don’t just lie on the beach, dreaming of sailing on one of those graceful yachts gliding by. Instead, with the sun’s glistening reflection around the boat and a gentle breeze on your back, it’s you, that’s out there.     Golf            No other sport in Thailand has attracted so much attention in such a short span of time as has golf. An increasing numbers of foreign visitors have realized that Thailand possesses many qualities to make it a preferred golf destination. Thailand has been chosen to host many top international tournaments, including the World Cup and the Ladies Asia Professional Circuit.   Among Thailand’s advantages is first of all the weather. Play is possible at almost any time of the year. Even the heavy but short-lived downpours of the rainy season rarely bring a game to a complete halt.   Furthermore, the country has an excellent selection of courses; all boast lush, tropical surroundings. Almost 50 courses and numerous practice ranges are available throughout the country. Some are located on slopes overlooking the sea or on former rice paddies that have been transformed into green parks while others are neatly tucked into the mountains of the North.   Many courses have been carefully designed to offer interesting and, in most cases, very testing golf. They have also been beautifully landscaped, with an abundance of tropical trees and exotic flowers for the most spectacular visual effect.   Most courses in Thailand boast a modern clubhouse, with restaurants and a pro shop stocking a whole range of new equipment. The trend is for new clubhouses to incorporate additional sports facilities, such as swimming pools, tennis and squash courts.   Low labor costs in Thailand mean that clubs can afford the luxury of a large ground staff to maintain the fairways and greens in tip-top condition. To ensure that the surfaces match those of the world’s leading courses, many clubs have employed the latest techniques to plant the most suitable grasses.   Thailand has the reputation for being a very cheap golf country. Compared with Europe and industrialized Asian countries, it’s true that Thailand is a cheap golf destination.   As anywhere in the world green fees are in most cases substantially higher on weekends than what they are on weekdays. Weekday green fees range from 100 to 500 Baht; on weekends they can be 50% to 100% higher. A typical caddie fee is 100 Baht.   Golf balls, like all sports equipment, are fairly expensive in Thailand. Renting equipment is no problem here. All the major courses have full or half sets of clubs for rent, along with shoes, umbrellas and other useful accessories. A player does not have to bring any of his own equipment.     Phuket's Sport Festivals            October, or around that time, sees the X-Games being held in Phuket. Here the participants compete on an international level in sports such as skateboarding, rock climbing and similar activities.   The end of July sees Phuket’s Surfing Competition. Although still in its infancy on the international circuit, this is fast becoming a popular surf spot. The week-long event is proving popular with both spectators and participants alike. If you like this game, then remember to pack your board if visiting at this time of year.   A popular week during Phuket’s year is the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta. Held in the first week of December it honors of the King’s birthday. This regatta attracts yachts and their crew from around the globe and bases itself at Kata Beach on the west coast. You may even see a yacht from your homeport, if you care to wander down the beach during the weeks racing.   Also held in December in Phuket is the Phuket Triathlon. Like the Kings Cup Regatta it too attracts participants from around the globe.       Thailand Cuisine & Health            Cuisine   Dining in Thailand is a highlight in any visitors visit. The Thai’s are expert cooks and the menu extensive. Generally it is considered safe to eat the dishes on offer in any restaurant or from a street cart. As with many countries there is the risk of hepatitis or other food and water born diseases but if you choose wisely, you will be rewarded with a taste sensation only Thai food can offer.   Tipping for service is generally up to you but some eateries do have a service charge. If you are not a lover of hot-spicy food, learn the words, ‘Mai Phet’ which means ‘not hot’. It will come in handy when ordering your meal.   Spiced drinks! Although, a rare occurrence, it’s a good idea to buy your own drinks and not accept one that is offered to you, unless the person offering the drink is known to you.   Many restaurants permit a customer to bring a bottle of wine or spirits of his own, but some charge a corkage fee, which can be exorbitant, particularly in high-class restaurants or hotels. All drinks served in hotels are costly.   In small restaurants those requiring a knife will have to ask for one, as they are not normally provided. The reason being that most Thai dishes have already been cut up fine enough for a spoon and fork to be sufficient.     Health        It is advisable when traveling to any foreign destination that you check with your local hospital as to what inoculations or medications you may need for your trip. This applies even more so when traveling to tropical areas. If there’s a Tropical Diseases hospital nearby, contact it before departure for Thailand. If not, then chat to your local doctor.   Some areas of Thailand do occasionally have malaria so it’s a good idea to check on this before you visit. Mosquitoes generally throughout Thailand can at times be bothersome so it is advised that you come prepared, especially if you go plan on going outside at night.   Hospital care is possibly not exactly what you might be used to unless you happen to be in one of the main centres. It is generally a good idea to take out some form of travel insurance that includes medical cover and if suffering from some complaint, bring a supply of any medication you may require during your stay. Medicines can be bought directly over the counter at a pharmacy though your particular brand may not be available.   Private hospitals generally require a deposit before admission and a possibly a copy of your passport may be required as well. Doctors will, however, attend to any patient in an emergency situation, without asking for money in advance. Private hospitals in Thailand generally accept credit cards in payment of bills and credit card holders will probably never be required to make a deposit.        Thailand is part of the Golden Triangle but that doesn’t mean drugs are legal. Far from it. Both the sale and use of any narcotic agent is punishable by law and the offender may face a longer stay in this country, than planned.   Drinking water and washing water are two separate entities in Thailand. Do not, under any circumstances, drink tap water. Although there are some areas where it's safe to do so, generally it's a better bet to buy bottled water for drinking.   Cover up! The seas around Thailand are generally crystal clear and warm, the kind that beg you to go swimming. Make sure you put sun cream on and wear a hat and sunglasses when venturing onto the beach or out in the sun. If your skin is sensitive, it’s a good idea to limit your tanning time to a cooler time in the day or tan for a few minutes at a time. It is also suggested for those with particularly fair skin, to wear some form of protective clothing even when swimming. Some of the worst sunburn cases seen here have been when a fair skinned person has been off snorkeling for a few hours, not realizing the water magnifies the suns rays, and they burn even faster, particularly across their backs and legs.   Generally the waters off Thailand are safe for all forms of water sports. One does however have to take care during the rougher seasons, as some of the currents that rush along the coast can be particularly strong. A good idea, if swimming alone, is to tell someone before you step in the water.       Island Festivals & Holidays   Festivals          The Bo Sang Umbrella Fair held in January in the small village of Bo Sang, near Chiang Mai, derives its livelihood from making gaily painted paper umbrellas. The fair is held on the main street and they celebrate their traditional skill with exhibitions, stalls selling umbrellas and other handicrafts and choose a beauty pageant where they choose a new Bo Sang beauty queen.   Around January – February, Bangkok holds the Ban Thawai Wood Carving Fair. Here one can watch demonstrations of woodcarving and other local handicrafts as well as purchase the products produced. The work is that of Northern Thais and tends to be more intricate than that of their southern cousins. It’s well worth a visit. TIP: Best to visit nearer the end of your stay or you may land up carrying armloads of ‘heavy’ purchases on your travels.   Chiang Mai Flower Festival held in the first few days of February is noted for its color. The north of Thailand has a rich variety of flowering plants. Celebrated with floral floats parading the streets as well as flower displays, beauty pageants and handicraft sales to enjoy.   Chinese New Year, a time of firecrackers, lion dancers parading through the streets and time to ‘spring-clean’ the house, is celebrated in February by all Chinese-Thais. Lanterns line the streets and the smell of incense wafts through the air. Dragon parades weave down roads and children gad about everywhere.   The most frenetic festival in the country is that of Songkran, the Luna New Year. Held from the 13th to 15th April each year…it’s a wet one! Traditionally it was celebrated by Buddha images being bathed with water and the showing of respect to monks and elders. From the sprinkling of water onto someone’s hands as a sign of respect it has evolved into mass drenching for anyone who decides to venture outdoors. This has to be one of the friendliest, though wet, festivals anywhere and a great way to make new friends. TIP: Travelers be warned, don’t leave cameras, computers or cell phones; unprotected…nothing is spared if you happen to get a dousing.   The Royal Ploughing Ceremony held on May 14, celebrates the official commencement of the rice-planting season. This is an ancient Brahman ritual and the participants who perform various ceremonies, believed to forecast an abundant rice crop, wear colorful costumes.   On the 15th May, Thais celebrate Buddha’s birthday. Local Wats (Buddhist Temples) celebrates by holding candlelit processions. A tourist may take part in these parades and it can prove great fun. TIP: Lady visitors please note; a monk may not touch a woman so please show respect and keep your distance.          July sees Thai Buddhists celebrating Buddhist ‘lent’ or Asanha Puja, the full moon festival. Beginning mid to late in the month, this is the period when young men enter their monk hood for the rainy season and ordained monks remain in a single monastery for three months. One can view Buddhist temples throughout the year, but this tradition can be picturesque due to the activity of the saffron robed followers.   It’s the Queen’s Birthday on August 12th and also Thailand’s ‘mother’s day’. As with all royal anniversaries this celebration guarantees a firework display.   The Vegetarian Festival held in early October is celebrated in Phuket and Trang only. For this almost weeklong celebration, Chinese Buddhists eat only vegetarian food. There are numerous ceremonies and processions, which are both interesting and colorful. The food sold in street stalls at this time is well worth sampling. Self-mortification is practiced during these celebrations and the participant’s parade through the streets with bicycle wheels, spears and the like, pierced through their skin. TIP: For the squeamish, be warned, these self-mortifications are on the gory side.   One of the most beautiful and moving sights are the festivities relating to the annual festival of Loi Krathong held in November. This is when you cast away your troubles and call in the hopes of the future. As the moon rises in the evening a small lotus-shaped raft of banana leaves filled with flowers, a candle, a snip of your nail, a piece of your hair and a few coins, is set afloat in the ocean or down a waterway conjuring up good luck for the forthcoming year. In some areas large paper hot-air balloons are also released..          December 5 is the King’s Birthday. The King is much revered throughout Thailand, something that is probably unique in the world today. His birthday is celebrated by all Thais and government buildings, private homes, businesses and the palace are all illuminated specially for the occasion. In some areas such as Phuket, they hold a regatta in his honor.   Phuket's Sporting Festivals   October, or around that time, sees the X-Games being held in Phuket. Here the participants compete on an international level in sports such as skateboarding, rock climbing and similar activities.   The end of July or beginning of August sees Phuket’s Surfing Competition. Although still in its infancy on the international circuit, this is fast becoming a popular surf spot. The week-long event is proving popular with both spectators and participants alike. If you like this game, then remember to pack your board if visiting at this time of year.   A popular week during Phuket’s year is the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta. Held in the first week of December it honors of the King’s birthday. This regatta attracts yachts and their crew from around the globe and bases itself at Kata Beach on the west coast. You may even see a yacht from your homeport, if you care to wander down the beach during the weeks racing.   Also held in December in Phuket is the Phuket Triathlon. Like the Kings Cup Regatta it too attracts participants from around the globe. The Thai holiday calendar varies widely from the Western holiday calendar. As the country is Buddhist there is not one Christian holiday, neither Easter nor Christmas. The only holidays that match the Western calendar are New Year Day and Labor Day.   Phuket's Sporting Festivals   January 1 - New Year’s Day February (full moon day) - Makka Bucha April 6 - Chakri Day April 13 - Songkran, Thai New Year May 1 - Labor Day May 5 - Coronation Day May 7 - Ploughing Ceremony May (full moon day) - Visakha Bucha July (full moon day) - Asanha Bucha commemorates the first sermon of Buddha August 12 - Queen’s Birthday October 23 - Chulalongkorn Day December 5 - King’s Birthday December 10 - Constitution Day December 31 - New Year’s Eve       Thailand Finance & Banking   Thai Money The currency of Thailand is the Baht, which consists of 100 satangs. Coins include the 25 satang, 50 satang, 1 Baht, 5 Baht and 10 Baht pieces. Paper money is used for larger denominations and is colour coded as well as being in different sizes for different denominations - the larger the denomination the larger the size. 10’s are brown, 20’s green, 50’s blue, 100’s red and 500 Baht notes are purple, and the 1,000 Baht notes are grey.   Exchange The exchange rate of the Baht against other currencies floats and may change daily. At the moment the Baht has an exchange rate of between 35 and 40 Baht to the Dollar (2000) but the general feeling is that currency exchange rates are no longer as sure as previous years.   Money can be exchanged at commercial banks at currency exchange services of these banks and at authorized moneychangers. Rates vary slightly from bank to bank. On Sukhumvit Road, in Bangkok a number of currency exchange services are accommodated in transformed caravan trailers.   Many hotels double as authorized moneychangers though their rates are usually not as advantageous as those of banks or independent authorized moneychangers. A small number of independent authorized moneychangers offer better rates than banks.   Banks Banks are normally open from 9:30-15:30 Monday to Friday except holidays. Currency exchange services of banks have varying office hours but most are open between 8:30-22:00 every day. The authorized money exchange counters of hotels often change 24 hours a day.   Bank staff often speaks English so communication in main branches is seldom a problem. Many but not all bank forms are in English as well as in Thai.   Traveller Cheques The rate is higher for traveller cheques but there is an 8 Baht commission and duty on each cheque cashed so larger denominations save money.   Exchange Control Foreign visitors may freely bring in foreign banknotes or other types of foreign money. Upon leaving Thailand, a foreign tourist may take out foreign means of payment, which he brought in with him. However, there is a limit on foreign notes or coins to a maximum equivalent of 10,000 US Dollars unless the visitor has declared a higher amount upon arrival. Attempts to take amounts higher than 10,000 US Dollars out of the country without having them declared upon arrival can lead to arrest, confiscation of the excess amount involved and/or prosecution.   "...no restriction on the amount of Thai currency that may be brought into the country. A person travelling to Thailand’s bordering countries and to other countries may take out local currency up to Baht 100,000 and Baht 50,000 respectively without authorization... Foreign tourists are freely allowed to take out gold ornaments."   Credit Cards We recommend that card holders pay cash while shopping in small shops or keep close watch as it has been known for shop owners to make out extra slips, thus getting more money out of you, than your original payment.   Credit cards are widely accepted in Thailand and most businesses display stickers for the cards they accept. Shops will sometimes add an additional charge of 3 to 5 percent when a client pays with his card.   Cash advances of up to 200 US Dollars a day can be obtained from some branches of the Thai Farmers Bank on Visa cards.   Some credit cards will get advances but only as traveller cheques. It’s more convenient to go to a credit card representative office if you need an advance.   Remittances Money remittances from abroad are normally no problem in Thailand.   Remittances are most conveniently directed to savings accounts. Theoretically, they can be made in one of three forms: either as normal postal remittance, as telegraphic remittance or as SWIFT remittance. In practice, however, they are either telegraphic or most commonly SWIFT - not because Thai banks do not accept postal remittances but because many banks in the West do not offer normal postal remittances anymore.   SWIFT is the abbreviation for Society of Worldwide Inter bank Financial Telecommunication and charges are supposed to be lower than other telegraphic transfer charges.   SWIFT is the abbreviation for Society of Worldwide Inter bank Financial Telecommunication and charges are supposed to be lower than other telegraphic transfer charges.   Thai banks process the telegraphic or Swift money transfer within one or two days. This differs considerably from experiences in other countries, where money remitted through the SWIFT system or telegraphically has often been available only after around two weeks.   To avoid that such things happening, one may choose a few safeguards. One is, to have remittances sent only to the head offices of banks or only to larger banks, as these are likely to be more familiar with the procedures than smaller ones.   A further very effective measure which, however, entails additional costs is to have the sender not only make the telegraphic remittance but to send a fax of the remittance order to the recipient of the money (not his or her bank). If a fax of the accepted remittance order can be shown, the receiving bank cannot claim that the money maybe hasn’t been sent yet. Another reliable means is to telex the information.   The exchange rate applied is considerably better than the one available for cash. It is the same rate used for letters of credit and other forms of international payment.   Remittances can also be directed to Dollar accounts where they are then credited in Dollars.   Bank Accounts Foreign visitors can open savings accounts without any problem. Cheque accounts are only available to residents. However, cheques drawn on Thai banks and issued to a certain person can be deposited in that person’s savings account without any problem. They are generally cleared within a day. Cheques drawn on foreign banks can take up to three months for clearing.   Foreigners can open a foreign currency account with any commercial bank in Thailand. The government, on the maintenance of, and withdrawal from the account, imposes no restrictions, as long as the funds originate from abroad. However, banks apply their own varying rules for accounts in foreign currencies (in most cases US Dollars).   Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) Though not yet widespread, Automatic Teller Machines are also gaining ground in Thailand. As foreign tourists cannot open cheque accounts, access to the Automatic Teller Machines system is limited to Thais and foreign residents. However they can be used with your credit card for cash advances (look for the appropriate logo), & most work on the Delta or Cirrus systems as well.   Safe Deposit Boxes Safe deposit boxes are in long demand and short supply and rates are often higher than in other countries. Nearly all banks and bank branches grant safe deposit boxes only to clients who also maintain accounts. Some banks even demand that initially, a client who gets a safe deposit box also keeps a considerable positive balance on his account for a specified time period. This varies from bank to bank. Safe deposit boxes can be rented for short or long periods of time.       Thailand Shopping        The warm climate in most parts of Thailand makes it wise for the avid shopper to visit the country with almost, empty bags and a pocketful of money. Here your entire wardrobe can be replaced for considerably less than you’d pay in most western countries and still leave room for gifts for friends and family on your return.   The variety of goods available in Thailand is extensive, from clothing to antique woodcarvings, gold to handmade paper, cameras to colored sand; the list is seemingly endless. No matter what your budget, you’ll be able to buy some worthwhile memorabilia of your trip to this fascinating country.   The Thais are expert craftsmen and brilliant copiers of almost everything. It’s probably a good idea to shop around if you are after the ‘genuine article’ or go to reputable stores or galleries to make your purchases. I made the mistake of not doing this on one of my first visits. I wandered into what looked like a very organized and almost, official looking antique shop, made my purchase and a few days later left the country, thinking I’d scored big.   On having the item checked in Europe, it was soon obvious I’d bought a fake. A very good fake, but a fake none the less. Fortunately it didn’t bother me as I was after the memory of Thailand rather than the actual object. For some, though, it could be a real ‘kick in the pants’.   Sometimes there are items you have heard of and would like to buy such as the woven fabrics, made by many of Thailand’s northern tribes. If you are not traveling to these areas one can often find them in many of the good hotel shops or in stores in the main centers. Expect to pay a bit more at the hotels than the shops or tribal areas.   Although many of the world’s top brands have established factories here, Thailand is a fashion designer’s nightmare and a ‘label’ buyer’s dream. Calvin Klein, Levis, you name it, they're here. Many however, are copies, right down to the accessories like Ray-Ban sunglasses and Gucci belts. You’ll find Tintin t-shirts lying, neatly folded, alongside articles made of Thai silk or hill tribe fabric. There really is something for everyone.   Suits made to measure, are a very worthwhile investment. There are excellent tailors here and the choice of fabrics extensive. Silk, cashmere, wool, the choice is yours. Most tailor shops do a 24-hour turn-around deal and if you leave your measurements with the shop when you leave, you can order from home. Be sure to check on the expiry date on the time the particular store holds these measurements for. Some offer only a six-month time period and others will agree to put you in their permanent client books.   Gold shops are almost everywhere. Thai gold is 18 carat so is softer than much of the gold bought in the west. It is more yellow than what you are probably used to. There are some interesting pieces if you have the time to shop around a bit.   Furthermore, the country offers good value in gold ornaments, silver and niello-ware, bronze ware, pewter ware, ceramics and especially high-fired celadon as well as wood carvings.   Thailand farms pearls, particularly around places like Phuket. Although these marine jewels can be bought inland, they are considerably cheaper if bought nearer the oyster bed areas.   Many of the world’s gemstones are sent to Bangkokfor cutting, polishing and setting so prices here tend to be cheaper than other corners of the globe.   For something completely different in the line of shopping a visit to one of the many tala sots (open markets) that the visitor will notice during their stay is worth a visit. Not only do the markets sell food, there are all types of household items, from plastic buckets to electric fans as well as items of clothing. This is a good place to buy the often useful, traveler’s item, the sarong. Or you will find a fancy hairclip for a loved one, a potted plant for a helpful local. Even if you don’t come away with an armful of goodies, the experience will be remembered for a long time.   Bargaining is possible at almost all shops except department stores, and it is necessary to get good prices. A discount of 10 to 20 percent on the first asked prices is almost self-understood. When shopping for gems, antiques or handicrafts, much bigger discounts are not unusual. The higher priced an item, the more is bargaining expected.   When bargaining, it’s advisable to maintain a sense of humor. One sometimes has the impression that vendors see it as kind of a game. Establishing a friendly relationship with the vendor usually brings better result than a more formal approach. It is accepted that a client can return and buy the next day when a price has been agreed upon. This leaves to the buyer the option of comparing prices at other stores.   Occasionally visitors are taken advantage of and charged too high prices. In cases of gross overcharging, the Thai Tourist Police may be able to help   Sales staff in tourist-oriented shops, and also at department stores in tourist areas, usually speak enough English for normal transactions. Personal cheques are seldom honored. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and in shops that have window stickers, but cash is the more usual form of payment. For information on the risk of using credit cards, see the chapter Finance.     Thailand is a huge tourist destination. As tourism plays one of the largest roles in the Thai economy, every effort has been made to make every guest to this country comfortable and safe. Do not take the following tips as warnings, only advice; remember being a knowledgeable traveler is a big step to a successful vacation.   Customs & Rules Medical Money Shopping Get Out of Trouble Getting Around Drugs DiningNight Life Wine, Women and (Men) Massage Parlor Beach Surfing Rock Climbing Jungle Trekking Voltage.   CUSTOMS AND RULES   Thailand’s culture is vastly different to the west and it is much appreciated when foreigners respect both its laws and heritage. There are certain Do’s and Don’ts that should ALWAYS be adhered to and then there are other rules that, though generally frowned upon are at times accepted.   One of these ‘accepted’ rules is that topless-ness on the beaches is in fact banned by law. Though it is generally advised, especially in Muslim areas, to abstain from this practice, some beaches do turn a blind eye to it. Be prepared for onlookers.   Other than that, rules that are custom to the Thai culture should always be followed. One of the foremost of these is NEVER SHOW ANGER OR RUDENESS in public. If you do, you will find that all it achieves is to be ignored completely. Thai people are extremely polite and rudeness is not tolerated in any form.   When visiting a Buddhist Monastery, please remember the grounds are holy so appropriate attire must be worn. Shirts with sleeves for women is recommended and it is preferred that women wear either a skirt or neat shorts (not high cut ones). For men a neat shirt and shorts will do fine. Women should be careful as no monk may come into physical contact with any women.   Two customs considered impolite are sitting with your feet pointing towards another person. Where possible tuck them out of the way. The other is touching another person’s head in public.   The road accident rate in Thailand is one of the highest to be found and despite motorbike rental being both cheap and readily available, it is not recommended that the visitor hire one. Helmets have to be worn by the drivers of any motorbikes within the country. A helmet for the pillion passenger is optional but again it is advised that if carrying a passenger, you ask for a second one.   MEDICAL TIPS   It is advisable when traveling to any foreign destination that you check with your local hospital as to what inoculations or medications you may need for your trip. This applies even more so when traveling to tropical areas. If there’s a Tropical Diseases hospital nearby, contact it before departure for Thailand. If not, then chat to your local doctor.   Some areas of Thailand do occasionally have malaria so it’s a good idea to check on this before you visit. Mosquitoes generally throughout Thailand can at times be bothersome so it is advised that you come prepared, especially if you go plan on going outside at night. Many western hospitals will advise taking precautionary medical measures against the possibility of contracting the disease but those that live in malaria infested areas, around the world, not just in Thailand, advise against this. The reason for this is that if you are on medication and still contract malaria, it is harder to detect than if you are on no medication at all. Some travelers prefer to carry the cure with them rather than taking preventative measures all the time. The choice therefore is yours entirely but do speak to your local doctor before visiting.   Dengue fever is another mosquito born illness that is prevalent in most parts of south-east Asia. Complications with the disease, which can lead to death, usually only, occur on a second infection and although causing severe headaches and body pains and general weakness, there is no preventative medicine. The only way to avoid contracting the disease is to protect yourself against mosquito bites as best possible.   Hospital care is possibly not exactly what you might be used to unless you happen to be in one of the main centers. It is generally a good idea to take out some form of travel insurance that includes medical cover and if suffering from some complaint, bring a supply of any medication you may require during your stay.   Medicines can be bought directly over the counter, though your particular brand may not be available.   Rabies is endemic in many south-east Asian countries and if you do happen to be bitten by any domestic or wild animal, seek medical assistance at once. Also try to capture the animal or at least determine its ownership where possible. Even if you have already been vaccinated against the disease, further doses will be required.   MONEY TIPS   Most currencies can be exchanged at the banks or local moneychangers. Travelers cheques denominated in most countries can also be exchanged. Credit cards are accepted in most establishments and the transfer of funds into the country through one of the banking systems, though generally slow by western standards, can be achieved.   The following is the paper currency used in Thailand which will give you some idea as to what the notes look like before you arrive in the country. Information on how to spend it wisely is continued below.   1000 Baht (front): The portrait of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the reigning monarch, in the uniform of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Size: width 8 cm ; length 16.6 cm   1000 Baht (back): The portrait of their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej & Queen Sirikit performing Royal activities   500 Baht (front): The portrait of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the reigning monarch and the Privy Seal Size: width 7.2 cm ; length 15.6 cm   500 Baht (back): The portrait of the monuments of Their Majesties King Buddha Yod Fa Chulalok the Great (Rama I) and King Buddha Loet La Nabhalai (Rama II), the drawing of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha   100 Baht (front): The portrait of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the reigning monarch and the Royal Initial Emblem of H.M. the King "Phor Por Ror" Size: width 7.2 cm ; length 15 cm   100 Baht (back): The portrait of the monument of Their Majesties King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and King Vajiravudha (Rama VI), together with their Royal Initial Emblem   50 Baht (front): The portrait of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the reigning monarch, in the uniform of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Size: width 7.2 cm ; length 14.4 cm   50 Baht (back): The monument of H.M. King Mongkut (Rama IV)   20 Baht (front): The portrait of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the reigning monarch, in the uniform of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Size: width 7.2 cm ; length 13.8 cm   20 Baht (back): The monument of H.M. King Mongkut (Rama IV)   10 Baht (front): The portrait of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the reigning monarch, in the uniform of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Size: width 6.9 cm ; length 13.2 cm   10 Baht (back): The equestrian statue of H.M. King Rama V, modeled from the monument in the courtyard of the Royal Dusit Palace   SHOPPING TIPS   Generally unless the prices are marked on goods for sale within the country, one may bargain with the salesperson. Many places will double their prices, especially the clothing and jewelers stores one sees everywhere. These shop owners expect you to bargain. If you don’t you are the one that’s going to lose by paying a high price for something worth half its value.        GETTING AROUND TIPS   Travel within Thailand is relatively cheap and convenient. When traveling from one center to the other, unless connected by an air-route can be negotiated by rail or road. The train routes though not extensive, are cheap. A bus route links all centers and the more out of the way places can often be reached by Songtaew (truck-bus), both are cheap and run regularly.   Car and motorbike rental is also easy on the purse strings. Your home country’s driving license or an International one is required for all vehicle hire. The road accident rate in Thailand is extremely high and it is recommended that the traveler choose the former as their mode of rental transport. Thai law requires car drivers and front passengers to wear seat belts. If renting a motorbike, helmets are required by the driver only. Ask for a second helmet if carrying a pillion passenger.   When opting for public transport especially when renting a Tuk-Tuk (small van taxi) or one of the motorbike taxis it is recommended that you agree on a price before you set off or you may end up paying more.   Traffic lights are a relatively new occurrence in a number of areas in Thailand. Koh Samui is one of these places. Be warned, a red light isn’t always heeded. The safest way is to stop at a red light and be prepared to give way at a green one.   GET OUT OF TROUBLE TIPS   The Tourist Police in Thailand are very helpful. They generally offer a 24 hour service and can be found in any of the main centers around the country. They are also helpful in directing one if lost.          DRUGS TIPS   Thailand is part of the Golden Triangle but that doesn’t mean drugs are legal. Far from it. Both the sale and use of any narcotic agent is punishable by law and the offender may face a longer stay in this country, than planned.   DINING TIPS   Dining in Thailand is a highlight in any visitors visit. The Thai’s are expert cooks and the menu extensive. Generally it is considered safe to eat the dishes on offer in any restaurant or from a street cart. As with many countries there is the risk of hepatitis or other food and water born diseases but if you choose wisely, you will be rewarded with a taste sensation only Thai food can offer. Tipping for service is generally up to you but some eateries do have a service charge. If you are not a lover of hot-spicy food, learn the words, ‘Mai Phet’ which means ‘not hot’. It will come in handy when ordering your meal.   NIGHTLIFE TIPS   Thailand is generally a very safe place at night. Wandering around on your own down a dark alley or off the beaten track once the sun has gone down, as in most countries, though, is probably not a good idea.   WINE, WOMEN (and MEN) TIPS   Spiced drinks! Although, a rare occurrence, it’s a good idea to buy your own drinks and not accept one that is offered to you, unless the person offering the drink is known to you.   Yes, the Red Light industry does exist. On the whole the ladies and men, you’ll meet, will be just that women or men. There is a risk that they may not be and many a tourist has gone back to their hotel with what they thought was a beautiful young lady, only to discover differently. Aids is a problem in this country so it’s advisable to take precautions where necessary.   MASSAGE PARLOUR TIPS   Going for a sauna and massage can be very relaxing. It can also be dangerous. Check the massage parlor out before lying down and submitting yourself to those deft hands. Though there are many places offering massage, it’s a good idea to check that these people have in fact studied for the job as one could come away with more aches and pains than one started out with.              BEACH TIPS   Cover up! The seas around Thailand are generally crystal clear and warm, the kind that beg you to go swimming. Make sure you put sun cream on and wear a hat and sunglasses when venturing onto the beach. If your skin is sensitive, it’s a good idea to limit your tanning time to a cooler time in the day or tan for a few minutes at a time. It is also suggested for those with particularly fair skin, to wear some form of protective clothing even when swimming. Some of the worst sunburn cases seen here have been when a fair skinned person has been off snorkeling for a few hours, not realizing the water magnifies the suns rays, they burn even faster, particularly across their backs and legs.   Generally the waters off Thailand are safe for all forms of water sports. One does however have to take care during the rougher seasons, as some of the currents that rush along the coast can be particularly strong. A good idea, if swimming alone is to tell someone before you step in the water. There have been instances of jellyfish stings but generally, that’s about all you have to worry about. If you are stung by a jelly fish, and don’t have vinegar (yes, the stuff from the kitchen) to pour on the sting ASAP three other good remedies for anything like that, (i.e. sea-urchin sp