Travel and Visa Requirements for Thai

• A valid international travel passport
• A completed visa application form
• The applicable visa fee
• Evidence of permission to enter the destination country
• A photocopy of your passport data page
• Financial proof — an original bank statement
• A letter of invitation, where one is required

Exact requirements vary by destination and visa type — always confirm what your destination needs before you apply.

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country bordered to the north by Laos and Myanmar, to the south by Malaysia and the Gulf of Thailand, and to the west by the Andaman sea. Its capital and largest city is Bangkok.

The climate of Thailand is tropical and there are three distinct seasons which are: the hot season from March to May, the rainy season from June to October, and the cool season from November to February. The best time to visit is during the cool and dry season between November and early April.

It is a country with many religions and religious freedom is protected. Theravada Buddhism is the most common religion in the country with approximately 95% of the population practicing it. Islam is the second most common followed by Christianity, Hinduism, and a small group of animists and atheists. The culture of Thailand has been strongly influenced by China, India, Burma, and the West. The official language is Central Thai. Other languages spoken are kintaq, kuy, jahai, kensiu, Chung and Bru.

Thailand is a multi-ethnic country with about 70 ethnic groups. Some of them are the Thai people, Kaleun people, Thai Chinese, Isan people, Hill tribe, Palaung people, Akha people, Northern Thai people, Lisu people, Mon people, and Lawa people. The traditional Thai clothing is the Chut Thai which means "Thai outfit". It can be worn by women, children, and men. Chut Thai for women consists of a Pha Nung or a Chong Kraben. Tourists should pack clothes like T-shirts, Polo's, blouses, trousers, and knee-length shorts or skirts meant for the tropics when visiting.

Thailand has a wide variety of dishes with influences from many other Asian countries. Khao kan chin, khao khluk Kapi, khao man gai, khao na pet, bami mu daeng, phat mama, sapaketti khi mao, chim chum, and kaolao are some of the dishes enjoyed in the country.

It is the only Southeast Asian country that was never colonized by any European country. It also ranks third in quality of life among the ten ASEAN countries. It is home to the smallest mammal in the world, the Bumblebee Bat and the largest fish in the world, the whale shark.

Thailand is an amazing tourist destination with cultural festivals and natural beauty to explore. Some of them are:

• The Grand Palace, Bangkok: It is one of the best sightseeing attractions in Bangkok and its history and craftsmanship are staggering. Take a tour around this beautiful palace and be wowed with every turn.
• Railay Beach: It is a famous destination in the Krabi Province and is considered one of the best beaches in the country with Crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Go kayaking, Elephant trekking, and snorkeling at the beach.
• Khao Yai National Park: There are tour groups and Elephant camps throughout the country that can take you there. Bathing the Elephants, trekking through the jungle, and spending time with the creatures are among the exciting things to do in the park.
• Koh Phi Phi: The islands are one of Thailand's most popular resorts. Visit the monkey beach where you can go diving and also see monkeys face-to-face. You can buy fruits and snacks and also relax under the shades of palm trees while there.
• Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai: Enjoy delicious snacks and dishes at Chiang Mai's Sunday Walking Street. Samosas, pad Thai, sweet rotees, chicken satay and crab cakes, paintings, hand-dyed textiles, and essential oils are sold by vendors and are inexpensive.

There are thousands of hotels in Thailand ranging from budget to luxury.