Time Difference / Business Hours

Thailand Standard Time (THA) is GMT+7 hours. There is no daylight saving time.

Government offices operate from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM. Banks are open Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM. Most shopping centers operate daily from 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM, while smaller shops may have more flexible hours.

International Call

The international dialing code for Thailand is +66. When calling Thailand from abroad, dial your international access code followed by 66 and the local number (omitting the leading 0).
For example, to call a Phuket number 076-123456, dial +66-76-123456. To make international calls from Thailand, dial 001 followed by the country code, area code, and number.

Currency and Banking

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). The exchange rate fluctuates but is typically around 1 USD = 35-37 THB. Major foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, exchange booths, and hotels.

*About THB Thailand's currency is the Baht (THB). There are 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 THB banknotes. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 THB, along with smaller satang coins

Credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls.

ATMs are conveniently available across Phuket, allowing cash withdrawals using international cards (with a fee of approximately 150-220 THB per transaction).

Traveler’s checks are also accepted at banks, though a valid passport is required.

Taxes and Gratuities (Tipping)

A 7% Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied to most goods and services in Thailand, usually included in displayed prices. In hotels and upscale restaurants, a 10% service charge is often added to bills. While tipping is not mandatory, it is appreciated for good service. Common tipping practices include 20-50 THB per bag for porters, 50-100 THB per day for housekeeping staff, and rounding up taxi fares to the nearest 10 THB.

Electricity

Thailand uses 220 volts at 50 Hz. Electrical outlets accommodate plug types A, B, and C. Travelers from countries with different plug standards may require an adapter or voltage converter.

Language

Language Thai is the official language of Thailand. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Most signage in tourist areas also includes English, ensuring ease of navigation for international visitors.

Emergency & Useful Contacts

Service	Contact Number
Ambulance (All Emergencies)	1669
Fire	199
Tourist Police (English-speaking) 24/hrs	1155 or +66 76 219 878
Phuket International Airport	+66 76 351 801 / +66 76 352 302
Bangkok Hospital Phuket	1719 or +66 76 254 425
Phuket Immigration Office	+66 76 211 905
Directory Assistance	1133
Phuket Tourist Assistance Center	+66 76 327 100

Useful Websites