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Climate of Thailand

Thailand is a warm and rather humid tropical country. The climate is monsoonal, marked by a pronounced rainy season lasting from about May to September and a relatively dry season for the remainder of the year. Temperatures are highest in March and April and lowest in December and January. The average temperature is 23.7 to 32.5 degrees Celsius.

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Crime Information of Thailand

Travelers should be especially wary when walking in crowded markets, tourist sites and bus or train stations although violent crimes against foreigners are relatively rare. Reports of serious transportation-related crimes involving taxis or three-wheeled vehicles called “tuk tuks” are usually rare, though fare scams can occur. Therefore, travelers should always use official metered taxis in Bangkok, and also never enter a cab that has anyone besides a driver in it. Besides, drivers usually tout disreputable gem stores or entertainment venues since they receive money for bringing in customers. A traveler who has fallen victim to a gem scam should contact the local branch of the Tourist Police, or call the country-wide toll-free number: 1155.

There are occasional reports of scopolamine druggings perpetrated by prostitutes or unscrupulous bar workers for the purpose of robbery. Travelers should not accept drugs of any kind, as the drugs may be altered or harmful, and the use or sale of drugs is illegal. Credit cards should be used only in reputable, established businesses, and the amount charged should be checked for accuracy. Bars or entertainment venues in tourist areas may at times try to charge exorbitant amounts for drinks or unadvertised cover charges. If victimized in this fashion, travelers should not attempt to resolve the problem themselves, but should instead pay the price demanded and then contact the nearest branch of the Tourist Police for help in getting restitution. 

If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. The embassy/consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends, and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.

Criminal Penalties:

While in Thailand, citizens from foreign countries (travelers) are subject to that country's (Thailand's) laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from the country of origin. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the country of origin for similar offenses. Persons violating Thai laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. In this connection, it is a criminal offense to make negative comments about the King or other members of the royal family. Thais hold the King in the highest regard, and it is a serious crime to make critical or defamatory comments about him.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs in Thailand are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Prison conditions in Thailand are harsh, and Thailand has a death sentence for serious drug offenses. A recent change in Thai law lowered threshold quantities that may result in its imposition. After a period when the death penalty was seldom imposed, Thailand is once again executing convicted traffickers.

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Meals/Diet of Thailand

Most Thai food is highly spiced, chili hot, and varies from region to region. What gives the distinctive Thai flavor, and the differing taste from region to region, is the carefully blended sauces and chilies. These go into dishes ranging from salty and bland soups to the spiciest salads and sweetest desserts, often all present within a single meal. The wide variety of Thai food tastes is a reflection of the combination of influences from various surrounding nations, which, with Thai ingenuity, have culminated in one of the world's favorite cuisines.

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