From amazing temples to lush beaches, Thailand is a travel-to paradise.It is one of Southeast Asia’s fastest growing countries. Are you are planning a trip to this country and having a difficulty in obtaining sufficient information. ? Look no further. You are in the right place. Read on and be enlightened. From how to apply for a visa, what to eat, where to go to when to go, this piece answers it all.

There are some countries that Thailand gives a ‘visa-exempt’ status. It is important to inquire if you are among the countries before you continue with you visa to Thailand application.  Doing this curbs the “when will my visa be ready?” qualms.

Whether you are planning a short-term stay in Thailand for pleasure or business, you are required to apply for a 1 or 3 month visa. How do I obtain my visa? Easy! Visit the Thailand embassy or consulates in your country. For some reason you cannot get to the embassy, don’t sweat it. The visa can be mailed to you.
Another option of obtaining your Thailand visa would be the Thailand pre-arranged visa (visa on arrival).The name only makes sense after you make arrangements before your arrival.

You are required to fill the visa application form online after which you pay a service fee to the agent who will work on your paperwork. After 2 or 3 days, you will receive a confirmation letter from Thailand Immigration Department informing you that you can get your passport stamped together with a visa once you arrive at either of the internationally recognized airports in Bangkok: Hat YaiAirport, Chiang Mai airport and KoSamui airport.

You are probably wondering. When the best time to visit Thailand is. It mostly depends on the country’s weather. The high season is between November and March and is characterized by a cool yet dry atmosphere. This means comfortable temperatures and verdant landscapes. You should be in Thailand during this season.

April to June is usually very hot and dry with temperatures in Bangkok getting to as high as 30 degrees Celsius. If you are a beach fanatic, these months are very suitable for you. The sea breezes in the coastlines are sure to provide you with a natural air-con. The months of July to October represent the low season. This season is characterized by both major deluges and minimal showers. Beach and boat fanatics should be flexible with their destinations as most islands are shut down and boat services cut off during such weather.

Places to visit in Thailand
With uncountable Thai islands in existence, it is close to impossible to know exactly where to go. Below is a peek of some of them that will help you find the most suitable for you.

Koh Phi Phi. Interesting name! I could say it all day! Most intriguing features in this island: the pirate themed restaurants, Irish pubs and the boho beach bars. You will find lush hotels in the LohDalum Bay and along the beach be sure to stop by the chic resorts.

If you the daring kind, Thai culture offers a Thai Boxing ring. You can showcase your boxing skills in the ring. Just hoping that the skills come with practice too. You don’t want to go back home with a black eye and souvenirs. I would rather the latter.

Phuket is the biggest of the islands and I bet Thailand tour packages has this on top of its list. Very commercial with series of McDonalds and Starbucks, Phuket is a place to be. Beaches? Most definitely. You will not be disappointed at how idyllic and amazing they are.

‘Laid-back’ doesn’t really cover it. Koh Tao is the epitome of peace and calmness. The feel you get in this island is totally different from the rest of the islands. So relaxed and laid back are the people in the island that they’re horizontal. Forgive the pun. In restaurants, you are allowed to lay on the beach as you slowly eat your mealand enjoy performances by the fire dancers. Drink your cocktail, soak it all up and enjoy the Koh Tao vibes.This should be your mantra if you find yourself in this island.

Party lover? KohPhangan got you. This island is known for the full moon party and the half-moon party. The dress code for such parties is a neon racer-back vest. Shouldn’t be hard accessing this as your Thailand travel agent will direct you appropriately.

The beach party at HaadRin is for those who prefer a less crammed environment, just buckets full of ram and fun.

Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand. It is a very busy city and is characterized by skyscrapers, bumper-to-bumper traffic and highways with multiple lanes. Stop by the Grand Palace where you will get a chance to see the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and pass by the Reclining Buddha.

Eating the khaosoi should top your list of things to do in Thailand. It is a curry broth that is seasoned with coconut milk and served with your choice of protein. It could be egg noodles or cilantro. To taste, add a bit of lime juice.

Some fun facts…
The royal family in Thailand is held in very high esteem. It is therefore not only an offense but a criminal offense to make ill remarks about them. You should in this case, keep your sentiments to yourself.

At the start of every cinema programme, the king’s anthem is played and be sure to stand. Stop what you’re doing if the National anthem is played over the public address system and stand upright.

Now this is interesting. Never at one point should you step on a banknote or coin. Why? You may ask. Since the king’s head obviously features on Thai currency, stepping on the note or coin is equivalent to doing the same to the king’s face.

Hindu belief has it that the head is very sacred and shouldn’t be touched unnecessarily and the feet the most low and unclean. Thus pointing your feet at a person or sacred image is regarded as rude. Watch your feet and don’t touch people’s heads. Free tip!