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OVERVIEW VISÃO GERAL TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTE ATTRACTIONS ATRAÇÕES SHOPPING COMPRAS WHERE ONDETO FICAR STAY WHERE ONDE COMER TO EAT
VISĂƒO GERAL Thailand is a dream destination. The colors,
Everything, of course, added to the paradi-
the flavors, the culture and landscapes provi-
se of beautiful beaches located on the narrow
de a whirlwind of sensations at every moment
strip of land between the Andaman Sea and
for visitors. Located in the center of Indochi-
Gulf of Thailand. The turquoise color of the
na peninsula, in Southeast Asia, the trave-
sea, the golden sand, colorful coral reefs and
ler discovers there a new world, very diffe-
the towering rock formations are so impressive
rent from Western standards. It is impossible
that they do not seem real. The paradise Koh
leaving the country with the same prospect
Phi Phi, for example, one of the most popular
you had when arrived!
islands for tourists worldwide, is a place you must visit.
Get ready to relax with unparalleled Thai massage, absorb the Zen energy of over 4000
All this would be reason enough to visit Thai-
Buddhist temples, taste unique spices, enjoy
land. Add to that a smiling, warm and kind
the bustling nightlife of Bangkok, admire rich
people to make the trip even more enjoyab-
flora and fauna of the more than 80 national
le. The charisma of the Thai is so great that
parks and dive with turtles and sharks in the
the country received the nickname "Land of
crystal clear waters.
Smile".
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Thailand was never colonized by Europe-
The official language is the Thai language,
ans, which contributed to the preservation of
but the traveler can communicate with relati-
their culture and historical heritage. Former-
ve ease speaking English. Tourists must have
ly known as SiĂŁo, the country assumed its
a passport valid for at least 6 months, and the
current name in 1939, years after moving from
international certificate of vaccination against
absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy.
yellow fever, issued free by ANVISA. Brazilian,
Since 2014, it is governed by a military junta
most European visitors and U.S. do not need a
and headed by King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the
Thai visa to stay in the country if the stay is up
oldest head of state in the world (in power
to 90 days.
since 1946). Influenced by tropical monsoon, the weather Although the Thai Constitution does not adopt
in Thailand is hot and humid. There are two
any official religion, the King is bound by law
distinct seasons: summer (rainy season) and
to be Theravada. This is also the religion of
winter (dry season). With two coasts with
approximately 95% of the population. Muslims
opposite climates, you must define which
come next (about 5%) and are concentra-
destination you want to know and if you plan
ted mainly in the southern provinces of the
to travel in a non-rainy season.
country.
On the west coast (bathed by the Andaman
connect to the boats system at Sathorn Pier
Sea, where you can find Krabi, Phuket and Koh
station.
Phi Phi), the rainy season lasts from April to October. Therefore, the best time to travel to
Subway (MRT)
these places is from November to April.
on the south, in connection with the Hua Lamphong Railway Station, north of the city
In the east coast (Gulf of Thailand, home to the
of Bangkok in a station next to the Chatuchak
islands Koh Samui and Koh Tao); monsoons are
Market. The subway system also integrates
from September to December. If you visit one
with the Skytrain.
of these places, schedule your trip between
Trains (STR): although they are comfortab-
the months from May to September.
le and affordable, they are too slow. They leave from Bangkok to the north, south or east
The inland provinces of Thailand also have
regions of the country. It is the best option to
well-defined seasons: from May to November,
travel from the capital to Chiang Mai. You can
the southwest monsoon brings heavy storms.
book it up to 60 days before departure at any
On the other hand, in the other months, from
station.
November to May, the weather is drier.
Tuk Tuk From March to May, the weather is hot and
The famous Thai vehicle of 3-wheels is ideal
humid throughout the country and tempera-
for short distances, especially in smaller towns.
tures is around 34 째C. From June to October,
They can carry up to six passengers and
thermometers range from 24 째C to 34 째C, and
usually have prices more affordable than taxis,
humidity reaches 80%. On the other hand,
but it is always important to negotiate and
from November to February, the temperate
agree on the price before entering the vehicle.
season predominates and is the best time to travel, with an average temperature of 25 째C.
Boat Colorful, long and beautiful boats are used to
TRANSPORTATION There are many ways to get around Thailand, including the famous Tuk Tuk. Public transport covers the entire country, especially the capital
transport tourists to the islands. The Bangkok boat lines have stations in major tourist destinations: Khao Sand Road, Royal Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Phro temples. During the rainy season, the services are suspended and the departure and arrival times vary depending on
Bangkok.
the weather.
Skytrain (BTS)
Buses and vans
Newly installed in Bangkok, surface trains covering a great part of the city. There are two lines connecting the Siam Square and cross the north to south of the capital, in addition to also
They are the cheapest way to get around Bangkok, but it is also the most complicated. Information on routes and schedules are difficult to find. The tip is to ask the hotel where
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you are staying or visit the website Bangkok
Bicycle
Mass Transit Authority.
An economical and enjoyable way to discover places in Thailand. They are usually rented by
For longer routes, some buses offer VIP servi-
day and the amount can vary greatly. Befo-
ces, including reclining seats, air conditioning
re renting one, make sure that brakes are not
and an on-board service serving drinks and
defective.
snacks. It is important to check schedules and buy tickets the day before. In order to travel
Car
to nearby cities, you should use vans and they
It is a good option for those who want to travel
often pick up the passenger in the hotel.
in family throughout Bangkok and surrounding
Taxi In Bangkok, taxis run with taximeters, but in the inland cities, it is not so common. Often the rates are defined before entering the vehicle. Therefore, it is good to negotiate with the taxi driver.
areas. A tip for those who want to rent a car is thoroughly check the vehicle conditions, since many of them are poorly maintained.
ATTRACTIONS
where you can find the temples and palaces, and the most modern and cosmopolitan area on the outskirts of the Chao Phraya River.
Thailand offers leisure options to more various
One of the main touristic attractions of the
types of tourist. What abound are attractions
“old town” is the luxurious Grand Palace,
that appeal to everyone: for those seeking a
the former royal residence, full of treasures,
paradise destination to relax in nature, alone
where you can learn more about the history
or accompanied, for those who like adventu-
of the country. Another touristic program you
re and diving, for those who want to medi-
cannot miss is the Buddhist temples. In Thai-
tate in Buddhist temples or for those looking
land, there are more than 40 thousand temples
for bustling places until morning. All this in a
and, only in Bangkok, a thousand of them. The
single country!
main ones are What Phra Kaew, carved from a single jade stone block, and Wat Pho, the
The bustling and colorful capital Bangkok is
largest temple of the capital, famous due to
a place you must visit. Known as the “City of
the giant Buddha lying with its 46 meters long
Angels”, it is divided between the ancient part
and covered in gold leaf. One of the best ways to avoid the turbulent traffic of Bangkok is make a nice boat ride on the Cha Phraya River. Besides being a great form of transport, it provides an amazing view of the entire city. By having been populated by Chinese, the capital is home to a large Chinese community that meets in Chinatown, where illuminated panels take the streets, stores of various products, bars and delicious restaurants. Those looking for an exciting nightlife, cannot fail to visit the Khao San Road, full of hotels, bars, restaurants, shops and where is concentrated the best parties of the country with various options and unique nightclubs and different from everything you have ever seen. Those seeking a cultural program must visit Bangkok National Museum, which houses the largest collection of Thai art in the country. Among dozens of decorative arts collections,
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it highlights the Chinese weapons, precious
Unlike the bustling capital, the city of Chiang
stones, objects carved in gold, masks, puppets,
Mai, in the north region, is the stronghold of
pottery and traditional musical instruments
tranquility and relaxation. Founded in 1296, it
from all over Southeast Asia. Visitors can also
was the first capital of the kingdom and remai-
meet the funeral parlor, with carriages used in
ned intact over time, maintaining its impor-
royal cremations.
tant spiritual function over the whole region. Surrounded by fortified walls, it is home of
Just to relax with the wonderful Thai massa-
many ancient temples, magnificent gardens,
ge, Wat Po, in Bangkoc, is the right place.
tribal villages and beautiful natural wonders
With over 80 parks, Thailand has many outdo-
like waterfalls, caves, intact rainforests,
or options. The Khao Yai National Park, the
waterfalls and hills.
second largest in the country, is known for lush vegetation and ideal for those who like
Another must-see attraction in Chiang Mai is
to watch the birds (more than 300 species live
the Lantern Festival (or Yi Peng). The inha-
there). Khao Sok offers a true jungle experien-
bitants release thousands of lanterns with
ce with leopards, tigers, tree houses to stay
candles and each means a wish. All lit up, the
and the largest known flower in the world, the
sky is beautiful. The date is only announced
Rafflesia kerri meyer, or wild lotus.
weeks before it happens. Nevertheless, usually it occurs in the same week that the Festival of Lights (or Loi Krathong) where receptacles
shaped as illuminated lotus with a candle are
of Ko Pha, which brings together residents and
released into the water to bring good luck and
thousands of tourists to celebrate the lunar
make wishes come true. It is also spectacular
phase.
and takes place in different cities of Thailand. Famous for legendary beaches, impressive Thai islands also cannot be ruled out of
SHOPPING
the script. With hundreds of islands and many options, be prepared to enjoy paradisia-
Known as the shopping paradise, in Thai-
cal beaches, considered by many tourists the
land tourists find various products and a much
most beautiful beaches in the world. One of
more affordable price. You have many shops
the most popular is Maya Bay, scene from the
with traditional silk fabrics, oriental antiques,
movie “The Beach� with Leonardo DiCaprio.
wooden carved statues, authentic miniature of
This paradise is on the island Koh Phi Leh.
Buddha, crafts and electronics.
The famous archipelago of Koh Phi Phi in
In the past, trade was done in Thailand main-
southern region of Thailand, is bathed by the
ly along rivers and waterways. When Bangkok
Andaman Sea and consists of two main islands:
received the first European visitors, it has been
Phi Phi Don, where are concentrated hotels,
called the "Venice of the East". About 104 km
shops and restaurants, and Phi Phi Leh, home
from the capital, there is a floating market,
of paradisiacal beaches. In Koh Phi Phi, you can
which is one of the most famous attractions
also visit Monkey Island, where lovely monke-
in the country. In addition to shopping, it is a
ys greet the visitor.
great cultural program.
The archipelago belongs to the province of
Tourists departing from Bangkok and conti-
Krabi, which is about 820 km from Bangkok
nuing in a long, narrow boat to the location can
and is considered one of the best destinations
visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
in the world for climbing.
Once there, it is worth indulge in sweets,
Who wants to contemplate the beautiful sea
meats, spices, colorful fruits and vegetables,
life should snorkel in Au Leuk, with reefs full
grown by farmers from Thailand inland cities. It
of colorful fish and different kinds of coral, or
is worth going early in the morning and to take
Koh Tao, in the Gulf of Thailand, where you can
a ride with confidence throughout the day.
swim with turtles or dive with whale sharks (only for the braves).
Considered one of the largest markets in the world Chatuchak offers the most varied
Another option also quite popular for scuba
products. There, tourists find Buddha statues,
diving are Similian Islands, set of preserved
authentic Thai masks, musical instruments,
and most isolated islands, with specialized
beautiful ceramic pieces, silver jewelry and
diving agencies. A must go program, also on
precious stones, besides the delicious dried
the beach, is the Full Moon Party on the island
herbs and Thai spices. One of the most desi-
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rable is the delicious curry sold in paste form. Since the place is quite crowded and only works during the weekend, the ideal is to arrive preferably until 10 am. One of the most popular travel souvenirs are hand-painted and -made puppets, used in Thai shows. Delicately painted and dressed in refined clothes and accessories, they can be found at the Asiatique, the newest night market in Bangkok on the banks of Chao Phraya River. The craft is quite common in the country and you can buy beautiful pieces directly from the artisans. The most famous are the silk weavers in Ban Krua Thai Silk, the metal artisans in Monk's Bowl Village, the goldsmiths in Tang Toh Kang and brass lathe operators on the road to Wat Suwannaram. Be sure to visit the beautiful antiquaries of Eastern Plaza, near the Oriental Hotel.
cotton clothes and many other objects made by artisans. Known as the land of silk in Thailand, you can find beautiful pure silk handmade clothing. Shawls, bags and accessories can be found in several locations in Bangkok. Those who love pearls should visit Phuket, an island in southern region of Thailand. There, tourists find pearls with very good prices. Tip: In order to find cheaper prices, try going to the shops as soon as they open or when they are closing the markets.
Currency and Tax The currency is baht and is represented by the ฿ symbol. The most common bills are 20, 50,
100, 500 and 1 thousand. There are also coins of 1, 2, 5 and 10 bahts. Satang is equivalent to the penny, and is divided into pieces of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 satangs.
In Bangkok, there is also a strong shopping street. The most popular are the Khao San Road, Patpong Night Market, Pakklong Talad and Talad Phra Chan, also known as market for amulets.
Tourists are entitled to a refund of 7% VAT on
Those looking for electronics, clothes and designer accessories should go to Siam Square. The square concentrates the main shopping centers of Bangkok, from the most popular to the most exquisite and modern. You can buy everything from cell phones, laptops, computers and used electronics to clothes, luxury bags and shoes brands.
Be sure to bring your original passport at the
The villages around Chiang Mai are also famous throughout the world for silks, greenish porcelain, carved wood, painted umbrellas,
goods purchased in registered retail stores. The refund can be requested in the purchase of 2,000 baht (equivalent to US$ 60 approximately) on purchases.
time of purchase. When paying, submit the document and ask to the cashier the "VAT refund form" to fill up. When you are leaving the country, please separate the items purchased, passport, invoices and form and submit them at the post of VRT at check-in area. After the forms being stamped, look for the second place of the VRT in the boarding area and submit the forms, invoices, passport and receive the refund. The refund in cash has a limit of 30,000 baht. From that amount, the credit is
made in the credit card.
Bangkok ideal for those who wants to enjoy the night
Another option for those who want to save on
in Thailand, making the guided tours, trying
purchases is to visit one of the Dufry Group
restaurants and great dining options. By offe-
shops at airports in Thailand (check here) or
ring good economic options, it is very popular
the airports of Brazil, check the list here
for backpackers. Khao San Road brings great hostels and hotels with cheap rates, but as the
WHERE TO STAY
place is very busy and hectic, it cannot please all tourists.
Siam Square Thailand not only offers some of the best
with 4 and 5 stars hotel offers, with great
hotels and resorts in the world, but also a
benefit-cost, this area of Bangkok ​​ is also
huge range of accommodation to choose from.
very well located, close to the main malls
The lodging options range from hostels to
and shopping centers, as well as having easy
luxurious 5-stars resorts. Not to mention that
access to the Skytrain.
the prices are much more affordable than most western tourist destinations.
Koh Phi Phi in order to enjoy this paradise, it is worth
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staying in one of many resorts and sophistica-
where you can quietly get around using public
ted 5-stars location. They offer more expensi-
transport.
ve options and extremely comfortable. However, if the rule is saving money, there are also hotels with much more affordable prices.
WHERE TO EAT
Koh Tao Ideal for those looking for a quieter place than
Famous worldwide, the exotic Thai cuisi-
Koh Phi Phi, but also having a fun nightlife.
ne attracts travelers from different countries.
There, tourists will also find excellent choices
The dishes are carefully balanced with the
of 4- and 5-stars beachfront resorts and hotels.
most different spices: spicy, bitter, sweet and
Some hotels even offer rentals of kayaks and
sour. To vegetarian; you can also find several
snorkel.
options to be delighted. In addition to the typical dishes, the traveler will find good dining
Chiang Mai
options with specialties from other Eastern
Located in the northern region of Thailand,
countries such as China, Laos, Burma and
Chiang Mai offers good and several hotel
Malaysia.
options. One of the most popular areas of the city is close to the Night Bazzar, central region
Fresh herbs and spices give a special touch to
Tips
the culinary. The commonly used ingredients in
In restaurants, the dishes are not individual.
the preparation of traditional dishes are coco-
The meals are like a real family lunch: several
nut milk, lemon grass, Thai basil and aroma-
dishes are served among the entire table. Nor
tic herbs. Be sure to try the delicious Pad Thai,
is there much difference between starters and
Thai noodles sautéed with shrimp, tofu, eggs
main courses, they will be served as soon as
and seasoned with garlic and pepper. Another
they are ready. Soups are not taken before, but
typical dish is Sen Lek, soup with noodles
during the meal. Moreover, the Thais usually
and pork pieces, bean sprouts and a touch of
eat always using spoon; not only the soups,
pepper, as it should be.
but also the other dishes as well.
Irresistible, soups curry sauce are quite tradi-
Before buying food at street stalls, please be
tional and some spicier than others are. The
always attentive to hygiene and how your
Gaeng Massaman is soft (slightly spicy) takes
food is prepared. Always choose to take bott-
peanuts and potato curry. The Gaeng Kiaw
led water and avoid ice consumption, if you do
Wan (green curry Thai) is made with coconut
not know the origin of the water.
milk, chicken, basil, bamboo shoot and have a little more pepper. On the other hand, the Gaeng Daeng (red curry) is the spiciest option for those who love pepper. The more “hot” a soup is, it means the more spicy it should be.
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Hence, it does not have to do with the temperature of the dish, but with the amount of seasoning. In Bangkok, the tourist will find a lot of restaurants and street stalls, serving the best cuisine of the country and neighboring countries. Practically in almost every corner of the city, there are several stalls selling delicious food (and very cheap)! Do not be surprised if you find a stall selling skewers crickets, larvae and ant eggs on Khao San Road, the main street of Bangkok. Thais, especially in the inner cities, eat different boiled, fried and seasoned insects. They say they are a great snack to accompany a drink. Will you try it?
66 2
COUNTRY CODE BANGKOK CODE POLICE
+66 2 246-1342 FIREFIGHTERS
+66 2 246-0199 Suvarnabhumi International Airport
+66 2 132-1888 Tourist information
250-5500 250-1155