Useful Information

Climate

Temperatures are balanced, with an annual average of 31°C (88°F), while Pattaya has a tropical climate with three seasons:

• December – February: Hot and dry season
• March – April: Hot and humid season
• May – November: Hot and wet season

Currency

The national currency of the country is Thai baht (THB). Bank notes come in ฿20, ฿50, ฿100, ฿500 and ฿1,000 denominations.

Coins are 50 satang, ฿1, ฿2, ฿5 and ฿10.

Money and travellers’ cheques can be exchanged at banks, hotels and authorised money exchangers.

Etiquette

Thailand’s cultural etiquette is embodied by the ‘wai’, a gracious greeting formed by placing the palms of your hand together. The higher the hands are raised towards the chin, the more respect is conferred to the receiver.

Note that touching another person’s head or passing anything over it is frowned upon, as Buddhists consider it the most sacred part of the body.

Religion

The vast majority of Thais are practicing Theravada Buddhists, although there are also large Christian, Catholic, Hindu and Muslim communities.

What To Bring When Going Out

Due to the humid and warm weather in Pattaya, it is best to wear light clothing and layer where required. Pure cotton or other natural fabrics are highly recommended.

If you are planning to visit temples or pagodas, it is strongly recommended to wear semi-formal clothing: long trousers for men, knee-length skirts for women, long sleeves for both sexes.