Bangkok Fast Facts

Getting There:

The majority of flights from the US to Bangkok are scheduled aboard the national carrier, Thai Airways, which offers service from Los Angeles. Other carriers include Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Eva Airways, All Nippon Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.

Entry Requirements:

A valid US passport is required of US citizens.

Best Time of Year to Visit:

October through March

Language:

Thai

Currency:

baht

Credit Cards:

Credit cards are widely accepted but restrict your use of cards to reputable shops and restaurants due to high rates of credit card fraud.

Crime:

Pickpockets are a pesky problem, especially in crowded areas such as buses and markets.

Drugs:

Drug laws are very strictly enforced. Don't even think about it.

Getting Around:

Bangkok's traffic is legendary. A new alterative are air-conditioned skytrains, a good way to avoid to the street congestion. Another option are longtailed boats on the Chao Praya. (A personal warning: we once rode a longtailed boat--only to have it capsize out in the middle of the river, sending us--and all our money, passports, and camera gear--into the river. We've warned you.)

For More Information:

For more information on Bangkok, contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand (www.tat.or.th).