Bangkok, Thailand and what you need to know before you go

In Thailand I was only in Bangkok. I didn't see the rest of the country, so in this post I focus on Bangkok and on what you need to know when entering Thailand.

What you need to know before going to Thailand

Visa

• Turkish citizens can enter Thailand visa free for tourism for up to 30 days. There's old information online that says 60 days, don't trust it. Check the rules for your own passport.
• If you'll stay longer you need to get a visa from the official e visa site, thaievisa.go.th.
• At entry they may ask for a return or onward ticket, the address where you'll stay and proof that you have enough money. Rules can change, check before you go.

Arrival card, TDAC

• Before entering Thailand you have to fill in a digital arrival card online, it's called TDAC.
• You fill it in within 3 days before you arrive, and you have to fill it in again for every entry.
• It's free. Only use the official site, tdac.immigration.go.th. Sites that ask for money are middlemen or scammers.

Money

• The currency is the baht.
• In Thailand ATMs charge foreign cards 220 baht for every withdrawal. Don't take out small amounts, withdraw what you need in one go.
• When paying by card or withdrawing, if it asks whether to charge in your home currency or baht, choose baht.

Getting around

• For taxis people use Grab, and there's Bolt too. Check both and pick the cheaper one.
• In Bangkok the BTS and MRT lines are the easiest way to get around without getting stuck in traffic.

Temples

When you enter temples your shoulders and knees must be covered, and at the Grand Palace they are very strict about it.

Places to see in Bangkok

• The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
• Wat Pho and the giant reclining Buddha.
• Wat Arun, across the river.
• Chatuchak Market, which opens on weekends.
• Khao San Road.