Medical Tourism Continues to Lead in Exotic Thailand


Overview
Thailand has been called the gateway to Indonesia, a part of Southeast Asia that has long been considered to be the most exotic and mysterious area of the globe. Foreigners envision grass huts on sandy beaches, beautiful, lush forests and sights and flavors of exotic foods, flora and fauna. Indeed, Thailand is an ancient land, but one that has met the challenge to become a leading power in this area of the world.

Thailand, once known as the Kingdom of Siam, is filled with friendly people and things to do and see. From bustling, noisy Bangkok to the seclusion of native beach getaways, Thailand offers high-class accommodations to hammocks on the oceanfront. From the mountainous landscapes to the north to the sand that meets the sea to the south, Thailand offers a wealth of outdoor opportunities and activities for all ages. City entertainment is at its best in Bangkok and Chiang Mai and Phuket, where visitors can enjoy nightclubbing, ethnic entertainment, fine dining and the best in world-class hotel accommodations.

Thailand Basics

• Currency: Baht
• Language: Thai
• Climate: Tropical – mid-80s and humid in summer, to high 40s in winter, plenty of rain May through October
• Capital: Bangkok

Electrical
220 volt - travelers are advised to pack a dual voltage converter with two prongs. Thailand typically uses standard European-style non-grounded sockets

Visa Requirements
American travelers planning on spending less that 30 days in Thailand don't need a visa, but will need to show a passport with at least 6 months' of validity as well as round-trip ticket from country or origin. If you arrive in Thailand by land, you're only allowed to stay for 15 days. Some visa offer stays of between 3 and 6 months, while others may be good from 1 to 3 years.

Citizens of other countries are required to obtain a visa from a Royal Thai Embassy or Royal Thai Consulate-General in their country of residence. Some visitors may apply for visas after arrival. For specific instructions regarding Visa requirements in Thailand, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kingdom of Thailand at http://www.mfa.go.th/web/2482.php?id=2487

Money
The baht is the common money used in Thailand, though most hotels and larger shops will also accept credit cards. Travelers should carry some cash, and be advised that most businesses won't take traveler's checks. Convert them to cash at a bank or airport.

Airlines Serving Thailand
Thailand's major international airports include the Bangkok International Airport, also known as Suvarnabhumi. Other major airports in Thailand include Chiang Mai International Airport and Phuket International Airport.

Specific airlines that fly to Thailand include:

• American Airlines
• China Southern, China Airlines and Air China
• Air Asia
• Korean Air
• Malaysia Airlines
• Quantas
• Air France
• KLM
• EL AL Israel Airlines
• Turkish Airlines
• Saudi Arabian Airlines

Thailand Country Dialing Code
Country code [66] + city code + telephone number

Embassies in Thailand
British Embassy in Thailand
14 Wireless Rd, Lumpini, Patumwan, Bkk 10330
Tel: 305 8333 (Main Embassy line), 253 0191
Croatian Consulate in Thailand
18th Fl., ITF Silom Palace
160/347-348, Silom Road
Bangkok 10500
Thailand
Phone: +66-2238-5112
Fax: +66-2238-5113
Email: croatian_consulate_thailand@yahoo.com

United States Embassy in Thailand
95 Wireless Rd, Bkk 10500
Tel: 205 4000
Additional links:   Thai-US Relations;   US-Asean Business Council
Website: http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/
South African Embassy in Thailand
12A Fl, M-Thai Tower, All Seasons Place, 87 Wireless Rd, Pathumwan, Lumpini, Bkk 10330
Tel: 250 9012-14

Italian Embassy in Thailand
399 Nang Linchee Rd, Thungmahamek, Bkk 10120
Tel: 285 4090-3;   Email: ambasciata.bangkok@esteri.it
Iraq Embassy in Thailand
47 Pradipat Rd, Samsen Nai, Phayathai, Bkk 10400
Tel: 278 5335-8

10 Fun Things to do in Thailand

• Stroll the sandy beaches in the Gulf of Thailand
• Visit the Grand Palace
• Take a biking tour of World Heritage Sites
• Travel the back roads by rail
• Go diving at Similan and Surin Islands
• Try elephant trekking!
• Enjoy a Thai spa massage and beauty treatment
• Watch some Muay Thai
• Take in the sights (and smells) of the Floating Market
• Enjoy ultimate relaxation in Pai

Conclusion
Whether you want to be inside or outside, Thailand has something to keep you interested, inspired and engaged. From sporting events to festivals to theatrical productions, Thailand will surprise you. From fine dining to street food, from her beaches to her jungles, Thailand is a place you'll never forget.