Travel insurance  for Thailand

 VISAS

New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa to visit Thailand for tourist visits of 30 days or less if entering via an international airport, and up to 15 days if entering through a neighbouring country's land border under the Visa Exemption Rule.

You will need:
- A passport with at least six months validity with at least two blank pages.
- A return ticket/proof of onward travel.
- Proof of accommodation and of funds of at least 10,000THB per person ( ~$470NZD), or 20,000THB (~940NZD).

These rules can change quickly, so be sure to get in contact with your nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate.

 BEST TIME TO VISIT

The climate throughout Thailand is highly variable, so you really can visit all year round. Those cloudless Instagram photos you've seen were probably taken during the cool and dry season, between November and February. Be warned that during Thailand's "cool" season, temperatures still regularly reach 30°C though! Otherwise, the hot season is March to May, where temperatures reach 35-40°C most days. If you're keen for a bargain and don't mind getting wet, the low season for tourists is May through to October, which also happens to be monsoon season. 

 NEED TO KNOW TIPS

Etiquette is important, particularly when visiting cultural sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered for all people. You may be denied entry if you show too much skin. Always remember to remove your shoes as well. If you are concerned about shoe thieves, maybe bring a pair of flip flops instead of your favourite sneakers.

Cash is king here. Outside of high-end restaurants, hotels and malls, Thailand is very much a cash-economy. ATMs are widely available, and make sure you have smaller bills and coins - many smaller stores and taxi drivers don't have or a disinclined to give change.

While renting a scooter or motorbike is very popular, it's important to note that if you don't have a NZ motorbike licence and International Rider's Permit, you won't be covered with most insurance brands. Given Thailand's notorious record for road accidents, it might be better to hop in a taxi instead.

Anticipate language barriers - while English is spoken widely in many of the popular touristy spots, you'll find you don't have to head far before you're you're going to struggle. So bring the phrasebook.

Patriotism is important here. The National Anthem is played twice a day, and the King's Anthem is played before films in the cinema. There is an expectation that everyone will stand during these times.

 GETTING AROUND

There are four main intercity bus types in Thailand - 'ordinary' rot thammadaa buses which are usually orange and are not airconditioned, and three blue rot air/rot thua (2nd, 1st and VIP). Ordinary and 2nd class buses make up most of the Thai bus system, and are inexpensive and run frequently. Bus stops are small wooden structures with bench seats along the main bus routes. 1st and VIP buses are best for long-distance journeys because a) you'll have a toilet and b) you'll also have set seating so you know you won't miss out.

Domestic flights can also be a great option for the long distances, and can save you days of travelling if you're trying to see cities that are spread far apart. There a number of low-cost, no-frills airlines, or full-service Thai or Bangkok Airways. Reserving early (weeks or months in advance) can save you significant money.

For local travel, taxis and tuk tuks are most popular. Make sure you lock in your price before you depart, and strongly assert that you don't want any other stops - otherwise, you may find that you are being encouraged to go shopping at the driver's friend's store.

Renting a bike, motorcycle or a car is also an option, and the roads are straightforward despite their safety record and congestion in the cities. But if you're prone to worrying - about stolen bikes or injuries - the low price of other modes of transport are definitely worth the lower stress levels.

 WHAT TO EAT

Takeaway staple, pad thai, is ubiquitous here, but it is more flavourful and delicious than back home (and will generally only cost you a dollar). Tom yum soup is a spicy, sour soup often served with prawns which you will want to try at least more than once, while laap is a minced meat seasoned with lime, rice powder, fish sauce and herbs. It is typically eaten with rice or lettuce leaves by hand. Phat kaphrao is also a popular street staple, combining meats fried with basil and served with more than a little fresh chilli, garlic, rice, and a fried egg. Delicious!

 WHERE TO GO

While Thailand's north is sometimes thought of exclusively as farmlands, but the wetlands are some of the most beautiful in the world. Best visited December through to February, Lotus Lake in Tambon Chiang Haeo, is thick with pink lotus blooms and more than 80 species of birds.

If you like diving, then Koh Tao aka Turtle Island should be your first stop. The coral is incredible, and depending on the time of year, you might just have an encounter with a whale shark or a turtle. 

The Phi Phi Islands are just a 90-minute ferry ride from Phuket, and are great for swimming and hiking.

For culture seekers, check out the Grand Palace in Bangkok - the official residence of the Thai monarchy until 1925. For one of the most sacred temples in all of Thailand, visit Wat Phra Kaew aka the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It houses Phra Kaeo Morakot - an image of Buddha carved from a single block of jade.

 NEXT STOP!

Planning on heading elsewhere on your trip? Whether you're saying 'Hey!' to the USA, or you're chilling in China, TINZ has you covered.