Life in Thailand
Thai people are extremely friendly, hospitable and warm hearted and accepting of foreigners. The expression "Thailand the Kingdom of smiles" is very accurate in describing the Thai view of life, as people deem a minute without a smile to be a lost minute. Thais are proud of their country, very loyal to their King and for the most part strong believers in the Buddhist value system (which states all humans are equal and propagates people to be friendly, avoid conflict and live a good, honest and useful life, caring for others).
The Thai way of live is very "easy" and could very well be described as "live and let live", being generous, uncomplicated and not to worry too much. Thai's live very much in the present moment and do not spend too much time thinking about the future.
Today, the cost of living in Thailand is comparatively low, with electricity being one of the more expensive commodities. All western luxuries can be obtained in Thailand, with some however costing considerably more than Thai products.
A western household budget will however buy you an exponentially higher standard of living in Thailand than back home.

Climate
The Eastern Sea Board has a sub-equatorial climate, comprising two major seasons, the rainy season from September to November and the dry season from November to September.
The rainy seasons are dominated by a daily monsoon shower lasting approx. 1-2 hours, whereas temperatures remain a comfortable 27 - 30 C in the day and 25 - 28C at night. Most of the annual rainfall occurs during this season.
The dry season peaks in April and Mai which is the hottest period of the year. Thai's often state that December to January is the "cold season" which by European standards boasts the most comfortable climate with temperatures ranging from 24 - 28 C during the day and 20 - 25 C at night. "Extreme winter" is experienced during one or two nights a year, between Christmas and New Year where temperatures can fall to a "freezing" 18 C.
 

Inoculations
No mandatory inoculations are necessary to enter Thailand. As with any other travel into tropical countries, information about precautions can be obtained from your local doctor or the health department in your country. Inoculations against hepatitis A and tetanus are recommended but are not compulsory.

Clothing
Light, easy cotton clothing as well as light footwear are recommend. For the cold season and for your own comfort in air- condition cars, hotels and restaurants a light weight cardigan would be useful.
 

Do's and don'ts in Thailand
The Thais address themselves fundamentally with the first name, never with surnames. The syllable Khun is prefixed to the first name with the address (for gentleman or woman). One does not greet with a handshake, instead of this one places the palms of the hands above the breast at each other and one bows (That is the welcome form which Thais call the "Wai").
Never touch a Thai at head since this is the seat of the soul is and is regarded as a holiest part of the body.
Before entering the interior of a temple or private house it is custom to take the shoes off.
At a visit of the Grand Palace, the Wat Phra Keo as well as other religious places the same consideration as everywhere on the world is with respect to the clothing and the behavior offered. Beachwear is here at the place wrong.
Buddhist monks, statues of Buddha and other religious symbols should not be touch and be treated with due respect.
The Thais are a very polite and reserved, a very friendly nation. Never show therefore your annoyance and remain always calm and polite even in case of possible quarrels.
Avoid any crucial remark against the royal house.
Never point with the soles of your feet against any person.

Language of the country/ communication
The Language of the Country is Thai.
English is widespread. special in Bangkok and most important tourist centers, as Pattaya and Phuket as well as in large provincial towns.
As a second language for business, English is of great importance.
The street signs along the major routes are bilingual; Thai and English.
 

Transport
By Air
Most visitors arrive at Muang Airport Bangkok, which is used by all important international airlines. By 2005, the Airport Authority will open a new International Airport. This Airport it's only 1 hour from Pattaya away. Within 25 min from Pattaya you can find the Domestic Airport Utapao. Thailand has a well established domestic flight network

By Sea
Bangkok, Phuket and Lam Chabang (30min from Pattaya) are used regularly by international cruise liners.

By Railroad
Rail travel in the 1st and 2nd class corresponds to European standards. A prime example it's the beautiful trip from Chang Mai to Singapore using the famous Eastern Oriental Express.

By Bus
For ove land travel there are convenient air-conditioned public service buses or private bus companies.

Car hire/taxi:
Al cities have a well established taxi service system (Tuk-Tuk, Bath Taxis).
An international driver's license is needed to rent a hire car.

Visa
EU citizen and citizen from Switzerland need a Visa to stay up to 30 days. You can obtain the Visa on entry in to Thailand (Airport, Sea Port etc.). The Passport has to be valid for 6 months after the entry date.
Long stay or Business Travelers need a non emigrant visa, which is valid for 60 to 90 days.
These visas have to be applied for with the Thai representation (Embassy or Consulate). Children have to travel with their own passport (Child entries in parents passport are not valid).
Visitors over the age of 55 years can apply for a yearly visa please contact your nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate.
   
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Thai embassy's worldwide.
Foreign embassy's in Thailand
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