Welcome to the Land of the Free: Thailand Travel Requirements in 2023

Thailand is one of the most popular spots in the Asian tropics, thanks to its pristine beaches, splendid temples, vibrant cultures, and warm people. Combine those with relatively inexpensive flights and hotels, and you get an ideal holiday destination for solo travelers, friend groups, and families. No wonder Thailand is a top choice among many Filipino travelers for their trips in Southeast Asia!^[1]

Thailand has an overwhelming number of experiences to offer, so much so that planning your vacay may get stressful and confusing. But with this article, you can easily draft your itinerary. 

This travel guide covers the essentials, from Thailand travel requirements for 2023 to some destination recommendations. Let’s roll!

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Before You Fly: Thailand Travel Requirements for 2023 and Things to Remember

The thought of feasting on authentic pad thai or riding the tuk-tuk is surely pumping you up. But hold your horses! It’s important that you know the following: 

👉 Does Thailand Require a Tourist Visa? 

Do you need a visa to go to Thailand from the Philippines? Thankfully, the Land of the Free doesn’t require Filipinos to provide a tourist visa, so it’s easy to access the country.

Through Thailand’s Visa Exemption Program, you can stay in the country for up to 30 days. If 30 days aren’t enough, you can extend your stay for another 30 days by applying at any local immigration office. 

So what are the documents required for this trip? Here are the Thailand travel requirements for 2023 that you should bring:

• A Philippine passport (with a validity of at least six months)
• Confirmed roundtrip tickets
• Proof of accommodation
• Stay on the safe side by bringing these: proof of employment (COE) and proof of financial capacity

Read more: Prepare These Requirements for Travel Abroad Before You Fly Out

👉 Does Thailand Have Quarantine Rules in Place? 

Rest easy, as Thailand has lifted quarantine rules. Travelers aren’t required to show Thailand COVID entry requirements, such as proof of vaccination or COVID-19 test results. Furthermore, you won’t be required to get a Thailand Pass or Certificate of Entry (COE) or download relevant apps. 

Is travel insurance mandatory for Thailand trips? It’s not, but the Thai authorities highly recommend getting travel insurance. The same requirement is mandatory for those coming from and going to countries that require RT-PCR Covid tests for incoming travelers, such as China and India. 

👉 When is the Best Time to Visit Thailand? 

Since Thailand has a lot of beaches, one may think that summer, which runs from March to July, is the best time to visit. But the months of April and May tend to be the hottest while July and the following three months are the rainiest. If it’s any consolation, you can score cheap flights and accommodations since the demand isn’t strong.

On the other hand, the months of November to February are cool, dry, and generally pleasant. This is an ideal time to visit since you won’t sweat buckets while touring around. 

The only downside is that this is peak season, which means pricey flights and accommodations. Add to that the throngs of crowds at popular destinations. 

👉 How to Get to Thailand

Major air carriers in the Philippines fly passengers to Thailand regularly. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have direct flights to Bangkok. 

Air Asia, meanwhile, has direct flights to other Thai cities, such as Chiang Mai and Phuket. Other air carriers, such as Scoot and Thai Airways, can also take you to Thailand.  

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👉 How to Get Around Thailand

You can visit different destinations in Thailand through various modes of transport, such as the following: 

• Domestic planes – Budget airlines, such as Air Asia and Nok Air, can take you to key Thai cities. 
• Trains – If you prefer a more scenic route, you can get aboard a train. Thailand’s railway network has a length of more than 4,300 kilometers, even giving you access to hidden gems and lesser-known areas of the country. 
• Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) and Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) Skytrain – If you’re in Bangkok, you can get around the city via MRT and BTS Skytrain trains. They’re fast, efficient, and cheaper compared to taxis, buses, and even tuk-tuks. 
• Buses – This is a good option for budget-conscious travelers traveling across the country. Buses come in varying levels of luxury, from second-class haulers with limited legroom to VIP coaches outfitted with small TV screens. 
• Tuk-tuks –  These three-wheeled rides are among Thailand’s most iconic symbols. You can find them in cities, especially in touristy areas.  
• Grab vehicle – Already got a Grab app? Use it to book a car, a taxi, a motorcycle, and even a tuk-tuk.^[2] 
• Motorcycle – If you want to navigate a town or city at your own pace, you can rent a motorcycle. Keep in mind that you must have an international or Thai motorcycle license. 
• Ferries and boats – Many of Thailand’s popular beaches are located on islands. You can reach them via ferries and boats. If you’re in Bangkok, visit some popular destinations by taking a boat on the Chao Phraya River. 

👉 How to Communicate in Thailand

Thailand has around 70 languages, with Central Thai or Thai as the official one.^[3] English may appear as the unofficial second language due to the volume of foreign tourists visiting the country. Note, however, that the level of fluency varies, and some Thais’ vocabulary is very limited. 

Locals in areas, such as Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket, can communicate in basic English. To quickly get your point across, you may resort to pointing and gesturing. Expect those living in rural areas to have little to no knowledge of the English language. 

👉 How Much Does a Thailand Trip Cost? 

Thai Baht (฿) is Thailand’s currency. As of this writing, ฿1 is equivalent to ₱1.56.

The recommended stay duration is usually four to five days. Assuming that you’re traveling with one to two persons, a budget between ₱12,000 and ₱15,000 should be enough. If you’re gunning for a 5-day Thailand itinerary, just add at least ₱2,000. 

Note that flights and pasalubong are excluded from the said budget. Of course, this Thailand travel budget may change, depending on the city or town you're visiting, your desired level of comfort, and the number of activities. 

Read more: Trip to Asia 2023: Cheapest Country to Travel to from the Philippines

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Where to Go in Thailand: Top Must-Visit Spots

You’ve reached the most exciting part of this guide—the attractions! Now that you know all the Thailand travel requirements for 2023, check out the top destinations and activities in the country: 

📍 The Grand Palace  

• Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Grand Palace, Phranakorn, Bangkok 
• How to get there: At Sathorn Pier, ride an orange flag express boat that will take you to Tha Chang Pier. From the pier, walk for five to seven minutes to reach the palace entrance. 

Any Bangkok Thailand travel guide will surely recommend visiting The Grand Palace, a complex of buildings at the heart of the capital. It’s a perfect spot for families and friend groups who dig architecture and history. 

The Grand Palace has been the official residence of Thailand’s kings since 1872.^[4] Covering an area of more than 200,000 square meters, the complex features ornate buildings that embody the grandiose aesthetics of the country. Aside from the throne halls, the estate houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and important government offices. 

Entrance is free for Thais and ฿500 for foreigners or around ₱780. 

📍 Wat Pho  

• Location: 2 Sanam Chai Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
• How to get there: Take the boat cruising down the Chao Phraya River and disembark at the Tha Tien Express Boat Pier. From there, walk for five minutes until you reach one of the temple's entrances. 

What to do in Thailand’s capital of Bangkok if you want to appreciate the country’s religious history? Head to Wat Pho!

Wat Pho is another quintessential icon that you’ll find in any Bangkok tour guide. Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is one of the six temples in Thailand categorized as first-class royal temples. And it’s easy to see why. 

Once you enter the temple, you’ll be greeted by its magnificent interiors. The highlight of your visit here is the Reclining Buddha statue. Measuring 15 meters tall and 46 meters long, this statue represents Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. 

Wat Pho is one of Thailand’s oldest temples, existing even before Bangkok was established as the capital by King Rama I. It received a Memory of the World award from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Moreover, it’s the birthplace of Thai massage. 

This temple complex sits just next to The Royal Grand Palace, so you can visit both spots in one day. 

The entrance fee is ฿200 or around ₱300+. 

📍 Chatuchak Weekend Market

• Location: Kamphaeng Phet Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok
• How to get there: Take the BTS Skytrain bound for Mochit and follow the signs leading to the market. 

If you and your friends love shopping, eating, and people-watching, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is the place to be. Hailed as the country’s largest market, it has more than 8,000 retail stalls that cater to all your five senses. 

Need to refresh your fashion haul? Just head to the market’s wardrobe section that sells affordable pieces. Want to explore more of Bangkok’s culinary wonders? The Chatuchak Weekend Market has a zillion food stalls serving a variety of dishes, from noodle soups and grilled honey roast pork to coconut ice cream and chocolate-dipped bananas. 

While you’re at it, you may want to put your negotiation skills to use. Haggling is a thing here. 

📍 Bangkok Chinatown

• Location: Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 
• How to get there: Take the MRT bound for Hua Lamphong Station. From there, walk for a few minutes to the Chinatown Gate. 

A Chinatown, wherever you are in the world, is always a tapestry of delightful colors, interesting food cultures, and invigorating energy. Bangkok’s Chinatown is no exception. 

Yaowarat Road is the main artery of the said enclave. Just staying here will let you experience the eclecticism of Chinatown with its colorful storefronts and assortment of shops. Wait until night to witness the neon signs light up, rivaling the spectacle in Hong Kong. 

Street food is an attraction in Bangkok Chinatown. And if you’re adventurous, you may want to try some exotic fares, such as bugs, worms, and yes, even scorpions. 

Still can’t get enough of Buddha? Visit the Wat Traimit or the Golden Buddha, a 5.5-ton Buddha statue made of gold!

📍 Pattaya 

• Location: Chonburi Province, Eastern Thailand 
• How to get there: Take a bus going to Pattaya at Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal. 

About a two-hour drive from Bangkok, Pattaya is a seaside city known for its nightlife. It used to have a quite mature reputation years ago. Now, it’s marketed as a family-friendly destination with lots of wholesome attractions and activities. 

A Pattaya travel guide usually includes the following places of interest: 

• Jomtien Beach – This six-kilometer stretch of sand is the perfect venue for tanning or relaxation. You can also enjoy kitesurfing, parasailing, and jet-skiing. 
• Koh Larn – Also known as Coral Island, this destination is just a 45-minute ferry ride from Pattaya. It has white-sand beaches and lots of activities for water lovers. 
• Nong Nooch Tropical Garden – This sprawling estate features a French-inspired garden. There are also shows at the Thai Cultural Hall for those interested in artistic performances. 
• The Sanctuary of Truth – Featuring Thai carpentry, the Sanctuary of Truth is the largest wooden building in Thailand. It houses wood statues and carved pieces depicting the cycle of life. 

📍 Damnoen Saduak Floating Market  

• Location: Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi 
• How to get there: At Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal, take bus no. 78 to Damnoen Saduak.  

Thailand’s floating market culture is well and alive. If you want to experience it, one of the best places to go is Damnoen Saduak, located in Ratchaburi. 

Attracting both local and foreign tourists, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is arguably the most popular floating market in the country. You’ll find numerous merchants and entrepreneurs wading the waters on their boats while selling their wares. Ready your camera, as the interactions among vendors and customers make a good photographic subject. 

Partake in the colorful chaos by riding a boat and haggling. If you prefer to watch the action from the sidelines, you can do so while shopping along the dockside area. 

📍 Khao Sok National Park 

• Location: 34 M.6 Phanom Sarakham, Surat Thani 
• How to get there: Take a domestic plane bound for Surat Thani Airport or Phuket Airport. Via train, take the overnight express from Bangkok to Surat Thani Station. You may also take a bus that stops in Khao Sok from Bangkok’s southern station. 

Escape the heat and crowd by visiting Khao Sok National Park, a rainforest located in Southern Thailand. This national park is home to a wide range of plant species and diverse wildlife, such as sun bears, mouse deer, marbled cats, and wild boars, among others. 

There’s a lot to do within this sprawling rainforest. Hike, check out waterfalls, and enjoy the panoramic views of the park from different vantage points. 

For those who are into water activities, you can swim in some ponds along the Sok River, ride a bamboo raft, or paddle a canoe. But perhaps the most recommended water-related activity is visiting Cheow Lan Lake. 

The entrance fees are ฿200 for adults or around ₱300+ and ฿100 or around ₱150+ for kids ages 3-14. 

📍 Chiang Mai  

• Location: Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand 
• How to get there: Take a plane bound for Chiang Mai Airport. You may take a train bound for Chiang Mai Station at Hua Lamphong Station. You may also ride a bus bound for Chiang Mai at Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal. 

Chiang Mai is a major tourist magnet for its laid-back ambiance, great weather, beautiful landscapes, and colorful culture. If you’re a freelancer who brings their work anywhere, this city is the place for you. It has plenty of cafés, co-working places, and affordable accommodations, making it a perfect destination for digital nomads. 

But if you’re visiting the city as a 100% tourist, check out the following destinations, which are mainstays in any Chiang Mai travel guide: 

• Wat Phra Doi Suthep – Immerse yourself in Buddhism by visiting this temple, which enshrines Buddhist relics. This elevated complex also offers uninterrupted views of Chiang Mai.
• Elephant Nature Park – Love elephants? This sanctuary is home to elephants rescued from various parts of Thailand. You may also volunteer here. 
• Highland People Discovery Museum – This tribal museum introduces you to the country’s minority hill tribes. Housed here are traditional handiworks, costumes, and jewelry. 
• Chiang Mai Gate Market – This night market offers gastronomic delights, from kra pow and grilled meats to mango sticky rice and smoothies. 

📍 Ayutthaya  

• Location: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province
• How to get there: Take a train bound for Ayutthaya at Hua Lamphong Station. You may also take a bus bound for Ayutthaya at Mo Chit Bus Terminal. 

According to UNESCO, Ayutthaya used to be one of the largest cities in the world and a center of commerce and global diplomacy. Today, it is a collection of historic and beautiful ruins. 

If you’ve been to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, you’ll definitely fall in love with Ayutthaya. Here are some of the most notable and beautiful spots on this side of Thailand: 

• Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon – This features historic Buddha statues and a Chedi or pagoda. Visit the King Naresuan Monument to see thousands of statues of fighting cocks and roosters. 
• Wat Lokayasutharam – Here, you’ll find a giant reclining Buddha, measuring 42 by 8 meters. 
• Wat Chaiwatthanaram – Resting on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, this temple features aesthetics that were definitely influenced by Cambodia’s Angkor temples. Time your visit during sunset to see its beauty in a dramatic light. 
• Wat Mahathat – Considered one of the most significant temples in Ayutthaya’s history, Wat Mahathat features a collection of old buildings, such as the royal hall, small temples, and octagonal pagodas. 

📍 Phuket  

• Location: Phuket Province, Southern Thailand 
• How to get there: Take a domestic plane bound for Phuket Airport. You may also take a train going to Surat Thani. From there, ride a bus bound for Phuket. 

A Thailand travel guide won’t be complete without Phuket. With its crystal-clear waters, fine white sands, and limestone formations, this island is very well a slice of heaven on earth. You can easily access Phuket since it’s just a one-hour flight away from Bangkok. 

Ready to explore the island? A Phuket travel guide usually includes the following spots: 

• Patong Beach – Phuket’s longest beach is also the busiest, as it has a lot of tourists. If you prefer a pulsating tropical vibe, you’ll love this place. 
• Karon Beach – Not as busy as Patong Beach, Karon Beach provides a retreat for tourists who want to lounge under the sun and contemplate life. 
• Kata Beach – With its still, aquamarine waters, Kata Beach is a great place for snorkeling or swimming with kids.
• Phuket Town – Go on a local immersion by visiting Phuket Town, where you’ll find mansions and shophouses whose styles are influenced by Chinese and Portuguese aesthetics. 
• Phuket Markets – After a day of swimming, visit some of the markets in Phuket to get some grub and meet the locals. Don’t miss the Sunday Walking Market, which is only open on Sundays. 

📍 Railay Beach 

• Location: Mueang Krabi, Krabi
• How to get there: From Bangkok, ride a bus bound for Krabi. Then from Ao Nang, ride a boat going to Railay Beach.

If you’re traveling to Thailand from the Philippines for some tropical adventure, the Railay Beach makes a good stop. This beach is famous not only for its pristine waters but also for its limestone cliffs. The latter are popular among foreign rock-climbing tourists. 

Phra Nang Cave Beach is another spot you shouldn’t miss. Inside its cave is a sacred shrine where sailors and fishermen make offerings, such as incense and flowers. They believe that this will bless them with a safe journey. 

Phra Nang Cave Beach is also a great place to view the magnificent Thai sunset. 

📍 Hua Hin 

• Location: Prachuap Khiri Khan, Western Thailand 
• How to get there: From Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, take a train bound for Hua Hin Station. 

Not far from Bangkok is the district of Hua Hin. It has a wealth of attractions, including beaches, water parks, temples, and night markets, that will appeal to adventurous families and groups of friends. Here are some of the top destinations on this side of Thailand: 

• Hua Hin Railway Station – Opened in 1911, the train station itself is an attraction. The Royal Waiting Room is one of its landmarks, worthy of a spot on your Instagram grid. 
• Hua Hin Beach – This eight-kilometer stretch of powdery sand is a great place to relax and soak the sun in. Nevertheless, exciting activities, such as banana boats, jet skis, and sports, abound. 
• Hua Hin Night Market – Where to go in Thailand if you love seafood? There are a lot of places for that, and one of them is the Hua Hin Night Market. This marketplace is lined with seafood restaurants offering not only delicious food but also a lively atmosphere. 
• Black Mountain Water Park – Take your young ones on a water-filled adventure at this water park. It boasts a variety of water slides and pools that will thrill your kids and the kid in you. 
• Phraya Nakhon Cave – This spot offers a much-needed breather from the exhilarating vibe of the city. A small pavilion is surrounded by the towering cave walls and lit by the sunlight coming through. 
• Mrigadayavan Palace – More than 10 kilometers north of Hua Hin lies the regal summer palace of King Rama VI. Built in 1924, the building boasts an airy architecture that may remind you of the Philippines’ Spanish colonial houses.  

Read more: All Packed, Ready to Go: Best Family Holiday Destinations in the World

Dos and Dont’s to Remember When Visiting Thailand 

Thailand is one of the most tourist-friendly countries in the world. Show the same courtesy by being an affable guest who shows respect for the country’s customs. 

Here’s a list of dos and don’ts in Thailand: 

👍 Dos in Thailand 

• Remove your shoes when entering a Thai home, palace, or temple. 
• Dress appropriately when visiting a temple or palace. While Thailand isn’t conservative when it comes to clothing, people are expected to dress modestly when visiting sacred places. The bare minimum is covering your shoulders and knees. 
• Bring an umbrella since it’s always sunny in Thailand. This will also come in handy if you visit during the monsoon season. 
• Be conscious and careful when taking pictures. This rule especially applies when you visit temples. Always read the temple rules to see if taking pictures is allowed. 
• Return a wai greeting. The wai is a gesture where you put your hands together as though you’re praying, followed by the lowering of your head. Not returning this greeting is considered impolite. 

👎 Don’ts in Thailand

• Don’t touch the monks. This rule especially applies to women, as physical interaction with women goes against the Buddhist rules. 
• Don’t point. Just like in other cultures, this gesture is considered rude in Thailand. 
• Don’t take a Buddha image out of the country as a souvenir. It’s illegal unless you have special permission to do so. 
• Don’t collect coral shells as souvenirs. It’s illegal. 
• Don’t forget to smile. Smiles are a big social asset in Thailand. Use them in various interactions, such as negotiations.  

How to Avoid Scams and Stay Safe in Thailand 

While Thais are sunny, polite, and honest, you may encounter some locals who scam tourists. In this Thailand travel guide, you’ll learn how to avoid them: 

✔️ Be Careful When Dealing With a Tuk-Tuk Driver

Some drivers will insist on touring you around the city and making a stop at some shops where you’ll be forced to buy something. If you end up buying from these shops, the tuk-tuk driver will get a small cut of the profit. 

If you really want to ride a tuk-tuk for a cultural experience, book one on Grab. If you’re hailing a tuk-tuk, agree on a price before boarding. Otherwise, your driver will charge you a high price at the end of the trip. 

✔️ Don’t Buy Jewelry or a Suit From Some Random Shop

If your tuk-tuk driver takes you to a jewelry store, chances are the gems or pieces it sells are fake. Don’t be enticed by the shop’s so-called certificate of authenticity.

Similarly, a friendly local may approach you, offering tailor-made suits cheaper than those in malls. In reality, this suit is substandard. Sometimes, this trick is part of the tuk-tuk scam. 

✔️ Make Sure That Your Taxi is Using the Meter 

Avoid being ripped off by seeing to it that the taxi you’re riding uses the meter. As you sit in the car, the driver should turn on the device. Otherwise, the driver will charge you an exorbitant price at the end of the journey. 

✔️ Look Up the Opening Hours of Attractions 

If you don’t know the opening hours of the attractions you intend to visit, you’ll fall prey to scammers. A friendly local standing right outside an attraction may approach you to tell you that the said attraction is closed. Then they’ll tell you that their friend who happens to be a tuk-tuk driver can take you to other attractions. 

Steer clear of this scam by researching the operating hours of the attractions beforehand. 

✔️ Think Twice Before Renting a Jet Ski or Scooter 

The scam goes like this: after you use the equipment, the vendor will complain that it has a dent or scratch. The vendor will then ask for compensation. 

If you manage to rent a jet ski or scooter from a seemingly trustworthy vendor, take a picture of the vehicle. This will protect you from scams and unwarranted claims. 

✔️ Don’t Hand Over Your Passport

Plenty of rental places will ask you to leave your passport, serving as insurance in case you damage the items you’ve rented. But don’t do it. Otherwise, someone may steal your passport. 

✔️ Don’t Go at It Alone

Solo traveling is great. However, many fraudsters and scammers prey on solo travelers. If you’re traveling alone, try making friends with a trustworthy group or get yourself a tour guide. 

On the other hand, be cautious when meeting people—don’t trust everyone you meet. 

✔️ Swim in Safe, Visible Areas

No matter how adventurous you are, it’s not wise to visit deserted beaches and seaside locations closed to the public. Always swim in areas where others can see and hear you. Better yet, don’t swim alone. 

Moreover, always wear a floatation device. 

Related reading: 

• Konnichiwa! Best Japan Tips for Travelers
• To K-Drama Land: South Korea Travel Guide and Sample Itinerary

Final Thoughts 

Thailand should be part of any traveler’s bucket list. It’s a country full of sunshine, smiles, and warm people. With a size of more than 500,000 square kilometers, Thailand surely has a lot of beautiful places to visit—from bustling capitals and historic temples to quiet jungles and pristine beaches. 

Now that you know the Thailand travel requirements for 2023, you can start drafting your itinerary.  With this guide, you’ll also be able to avoid scams that will put a dent in your budget. 

Sources: 

• ^[1] Thailand, Japan Fave Pinoy Vacation Spots–GrabAds (BusinessMirror, 2023)
• ^[2] Grab Thailand Homepage
• ^[3] Thailand’s Language and Culture
• ^[4] The Grand Palace Website