If you are a U.S. Passport Holder, you are allowed to stay in Thailand for a period of 30 days without a visa.

Here are a list of countries that contain varying visa requirements for entering Thailand.

Tourists are prohibited from working or conducting business in Thailand. You will need a tourist visa for a period of 15 to 30 days. Visas can be stamped on your passport upon arrival, or it can be sent to your home through the Thai embassy in your country. In order to obtain a tourist visa, you will need:

• A passport.
• A visa application form that you must fill out.
• A current picture of your face.
• Your plane ticket.
• Evidence of your financial means (a traveler’s cheque or cash equivalent to 10,000 Baht will suffice.)

Visas will cost USD $30.00 per entry. A tourist visa can last from 3 to 6 months, each period varying on which country made a bilateral agreement on visa exemption with Thailand. However, if you enter Thailand via land border, you will be allowed a 15-day stay. You can extend your stay by filling out an application at the Office of Immigration Bureau.

All visitors must show proof they have received at least two vaccine doses and have health insurance covering COVID-19 treatment.

Source: PR Thai Government

Just landed at Phuket Airport? Here are a few ways to get to and from your destination:

Smart Bus

The busses run every hour rom 6am to 9pm and are considered to be called “smart bus”. This smart bus has free wifi, and usb outlets. This bus travels to and from Phuket airport through Rawai Beach, stopping at every airport along the way.

Taxi

To get a taxi directly from the terminal, head outside and you will see many counter services to catch a taxi. 

Limousine/Minibus

If you prefer to ride private to and from the airport, booking a Limousine is right up your alley then! upon arrival, head over to the service counters inside or outside the airport to request one. Minibuses are similar to taxis but they fit more people. their services are also offered at the service counters inside and outside of the airport. There are private minibuses and shared minibuses as well.

Grab (Taxi App)

Grab is the equivalent of Uber in Thailand. You can order one from the airport and pay via credit card on your phone or cash to the driver. They provide modes such as Economy, Taxi, Songthaew, and Premium.

Here are some tips for our solo-female travelers:

Phuket is one of the safest countries in Thailand. Just always be aware of you surrounds especially at night.

Be aware of scammers and robberies.

Do not buy drugs. Drugs are illegal in Thailand. Although, people are selling drugs on the beaches, if caught, you will be fined and potentially deported. 

Be cautious in the water because the wave currents can get dangerous.

Emergency number dials:

Police 191 (general), 115 (Volunteer Police for Tourist)

Phuket International Hospital 076-249-400

Ambulance/Rescue 1554

Throughout much of the year, Phuket maintains warm all year round but the hottest time of the years are between April and May and September to October. The wettest time of the year is also September to October. Fun Fact: Phuket’s climate has a tropical monsoonal.

The official language of Thailand is Thai. Here are a few phrases and words to help you get by:

Sawadee-Ka: Hello

Kappunka: Thank you

Chai: Yes

Mai: No

Aaj ja: Maybe

Khor thoad khrup/ka: Sorry

Hong nam yoo tee nai khrup/ka?: Where is the restroom?

Phom dong gaan hai mor maa raak sa khrup/ka: I need a doctor

Kun pood paassaa angrrit dai mai: Can you speak English?

Known as the “Land of Smiles,” Thai people are generally polite and welcoming, assuming the same from others. They are not known to openly voice their irritation. Here are a few tips to avoid inner-scowling from the locals:

• Try not to raise your voice or show aggression when irritated. This may result in losing face, which is the act of losing respect from those around you. So always keep a smile!
• Public displays of affection are seldom practiced here, as Thailand is still a conservative country.
• At temples, women should wear clothing that cover your shoulders and knees and a scarf. Expect to take off your shoes inside temples, so wear shoes that are easy to take on and off.
• Since Phuket has tons of beaches, remember to cover up to and from the beach. There is no public nudity allowed.
•  Body language is important. tip: avoid the direction you point your feet, Thai people can take it the wrong way.

The baht ฿ is the official currency of Thailand. Though U.S. dollars are accepted in some countries, they’re not used in Thailand. You can exchange your U.S. dollars for Baht at the airport.

Tipping is not mandatory nor expected in Phuket but are appreciated.

The standard voltage is 220 volts. You will need a voltage convert if bringing electronics with 110 voltage. Your converter should look like this:

It’s advised to drink boiled or bottled water. Due to Thailand’s hot and humid temperatures, it’s not recommended to drink water from the tap. The ice, however, is safe, as most ice factories use purified water. Keep a look out for tubular-shaped ice.

Many cafes and restaurants have free WiFi, all you have to do is ask for it! Some places, such as Starbucks, may also charge for WiFi so make sure to ask.

Check out these eco-friendly activities in Phuket:

Bang Rong community: is part of the Thalang history where it has mangrove forest where people grew crops and fished. Tourist can visit the ancient remains, the goat farm or take a bicycle tour.

Baan Kha-Nan ancient village where you can learn about Phuket local culture, local foods, ceremonies, music and performances.

Mai-Khao beach where you can see sea turtles lay their eggs. Every April 13 the staff of resorts in this area release the baby turtles into the sea.