Thailand Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

The advisory level was increased to Level 2. An area of increased risk was added. The advisory summary was updated. Exercise increased caution in Thailand due to risk of unrest . Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to : Areas along the Cambodian and Thai border due to armed conflict. Advisory summary :  Exercise increased caution due to  civil unrest  associated with ongoing insurgent activities in the Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat ...

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Thailand safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

ℹ️ Tourist police: 1155 (English-speaking, available 24/7). This should be your first call for non-emergency issues.

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Bangkok has world-class private hospitals (Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital, Samitivej) popular with medical tourists. Outside Bangkok, quality drops significantly. Chiang Mai has adequate private hospitals. Islands and rural areas have very limited medical facilities — serious cases require evacuation to Bangkok.

Insurance: Travel insurance essential. Private hospitals require proof of insurance or cash deposit upfront ($500-2,000). Medevac coverage strongly recommended if visiting islands or rural areas.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Thailand has extremely strict drug laws — penalties for trafficking include the death penalty. Always carry medications in original packaging with prescription labels. Bring a doctor's letter for any controlled substance. Do not buy controlled medications from Thai pharmacies without a local prescription.

• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Strictly illegal. Thailand has severe drug penalties including long prison sentences. No exemption for foreign prescriptions.
• CBD / cannabis products — RESTRICTED: Cannabis was re-criminalized in 2025. CBD products with >0.2% THC are illegal. Enforcement is increasing. Do not bring any cannabis products.
• Codeine — RESTRICTED: Controlled substance. Bring prescription documentation and keep in original packaging. Maximum 30 days supply.
• Tramadol — RESTRICTED: Classified as a narcotic. Bring doctor's letter and original prescription. Keep in original packaging.
• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Psychotropic substances requiring documentation. Carry original prescription and doctor's letter. Max 30-day supply.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not traditionally expected but appreciated. 20-50 baht for good restaurant service. Round up taxi fares. Hotel porters 20-50 baht per bag. Spa/massage 50-100 baht.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Touching someone's head (highest part of body, considered sacred)
• Pointing feet at people or Buddha images (feet are lowest/dirtiest)
• Disrespecting the monarchy (lèse-majesté is a serious criminal offense)
• Public displays of anger (losing face)
• Stepping on money (has the King's image)

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in Thailand: