Money
The currency is the Thai baht. Cash remains common at markets and smaller businesses.
kartoshka potato
Tourist guide
A practical guide to Thailand and Phuket: history, useful advice, places, and safety.
01
THAILAND
A short history
Thailand is one of the few Southeast Asian countries never formally colonized by a European power.
Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand has been a constitutional monarchy since 1932, with Bangkok as its capital.
02
PRACTICAL GUIDE
Good to know
Sun and water
The tropical sun is strong even on cloudy days. Carry water and use sun protection.
Transport
Agree on the fare before a taxi or tuk-tuk ride, or use an official ride-hailing app.
Temples
Wear covering clothing and follow the rules displayed at each temple.
03
PHUKET
Places worth visiting
Phuket offers beaches, an old town, viewpoints, temples, and districts with different atmospheres.
Phuket Old Town
A historic centre known for Sino-Portuguese architecture and colourful façades.
Promthep Cape
A famous viewpoint in southern Phuket, particularly popular before sunset.
Wat Chalong
One of Phuket's best-known Buddhist temple complexes.
Karon Viewpoint
A panoramic view over the west coast and several beaches.
04
IMPORTANT
Visitor safety
Red beach flags
A red flag means dangerous conditions. Do not enter the water.
Licence and helmet
You need the correct licence to drive. Always wear a helmet on a motorbike.
Keep your passport
Do not leave your original passport as a deposit; agree on a safer alternative.
Emergency numbers
Police: 191, medical emergency: 1669, TAT tourist information: 1672.
05
FACTS
Amazing Thailand
A few unusual facts and records from Thailand.
Bangkok's name
The transliteration of Bangkok's full ceremonial name contains 168 letters.
Golden Buddha
Wat Traimit houses a gold Buddha about 3 metres tall and weighing approximately 5.5 tonnes.
Temple of bottles
Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew was built using approximately 1.5 million glass bottles.