Thailand's Summer

Visa & Entry Preparation
1. Visa Policy: During the 2025 China-Thailand mutual visa exemption period, Chinese tourists can stay visa-free for 30 days. For visa-on-arrival, prepare a return ticket, hotel reservation, 2-inch white-background photo, and 2,000 THB visa fee.
2. Cash Requirement: Carry at least 2,000 RMB or equivalent foreign currency (approx. 10,000 THB) for possible immigration checks.
3. Prohibited Items: Electronic cigarettes, cannabis-leaf products, pork-based foods, counterfeit goods are banned. Durians and mangosteens are not allowed in hotels.

Safety & Health
1. Traffic Safety:
- Drive on the left; rent motorcycles only with helmets and an international license to avoid fines.
- Use Grab for taxis to prevent refusal or detours.
2. Water Activities: Choose licensed operators for snorkeling/jet skiing and wear life jackets.
3. Sun & Mosquito Protection: Tropical heat requires SPF50+ sunscreen, Huoxiang Zhengqi Shui, and repellent.

Dining & Spending
1. Food Hygiene:
- Avoid raw seafood; dine at open-kitchen restaurants. Check bottled water seals.
- Be cautious with marked products (e.g., cannabis-leaf drinks) to avoid drug-related risks back home.
2. Tipping Etiquette:
- Use paper money (coins imply charity). Suggested rates: 20 THB/day for housekeeping, 50-100 THB for massages.
3. Shopping Tips:
- Haggle from half-price at night markets. Demand receipts for gems/latex products.
- Some duty-free items are pricier than local stores—compare beforehand.

Seasonal Planning
1. Weather Guide:
- Hot Season (Mar-May): Up to 38°C; prefer indoor attractions/island resorts.
- Rainy Season (Jun-Oct): Frequent storms; pack foldable raincoats. Best for southern snorkeling.
- Cool Season (Nov-Feb): Ideal for Chiang Mai hikes or Bangkok New Year events.
2. Classic Itineraries:
- Cultural Route: Bangkok Grand Palace → Chiang Mai Doi Suthep → Chiang Rai White Temple.
- Island Getaway: Phuket → Koh Samui → Similan Islands (open Nov-Apr only).