THAILAND FAQ

Where is Thailand?
Thailand is located in Southeast Asia. It is surrounded by the countries of Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. To the south of Thailand is Malaysia.

How long are the flights?
From Los Angeles, the flight to Bangkok, Thailand will be approximately 18 hours. From there you will take a 1 hour and 25 minute domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket.

What currency do they use?
The currency of Thailand is the baht. Paper baht comes in denominations of 10 (brown), 20 (green), 50 (blue), 100 (red), 500 (purple) and 1000 (beige). Coin baht comes in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10. There are 100 satang in 1 baht and two satang denominated coins that are used: the 25-satang coin and the 50-satang coin. ATM machines are located almost everywhere, and most establishments accept major credit cards.

What language do they speak?
The main language is Thai. Other languages spoken are Chinese and Malay. English is widely spoken in Bangkok and other major cities and tourist destinations.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, you will need a passport to enter Thailand. Americans staying for fewer than 30 days do not require a visa but must possess a passport that has at least six months validity remaining and may be asked to show an onward/return ticket. Please visit www.travel.state.gov and choose "International Travel" and "Thailand" to get the latest information. The U.S. Embassy contact information is below:

US Embassy
95 Wireless Rd
Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Phone: 66-2-205-4049, 02-205-4049 (within Thailand)
Emergency after-hours telephone: 66-2-205-4000, 02-205-4000 (within Thailand)
Fax: 66-2-205-4103, 02-205-4103 (within Thailand)

Do I need shots/immunizations?
For legal reasons, we cannot make official recommendations regarding shots or immunizations.  Please consult with your physician or visit www.cdc.gov for more information.

What’s the electricity?
The electricity in Thailand is 220 volts, 50 cycles per second. Most receptacles only have 2 holes. However, newer establishments offer the third prong. For assurance, it is advisable to bring a converter or adapter.

What are the luggage restrictions?
Please check with the airline(s) you are flying with for international and domestic luggage requirements and restrictions.

What airlines fly to Thailand?
Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines

What kinds of planes?
International flights are on 747’s and A380’s. Depending on what airline you are flying with, your connecting flight to Phuket will be on an A340 or an A320.

What are the seating configurations?
The 747’s and A380’s have a 3-4-3 configuration. The seats are ABC-DEFG-HJK. A320’s and A340’s have a 2-4-2 configuration. The seats are AC-DEFG-HK.

Will someone pick us up at the airport?
Yes, unless otherwise specified, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

What’s the diving like?
Phuket - small and big animals, great reef life
Phi Phi Islands -
wall dives
Hin Muang/Hin Daeng - large animals, great reef life, underwater photography, good vis, wall dives, advanced dives
Similan Islands
- great macro diving, underwater photography, good vis, manta rays, whale sharks

What thickness wetsuit do you recommend?
While the water can get warm enough to go without, we recommend divers wear a 3mm wetsuit for protection.

How long are the boat rides?
Boat rides to the dive sites take between 1 hour and 30 minutes & 2 hours and 30 minutes.

What's a typical dive day like?
Sea Bees boats depart between 8am and 9am. You'll enjoy 2 to 4 dives depending on the day's itinerary. The onboard chef will prepare a European breakfast for you to enjoy on the way. Lunch is served after your first dive, and fresh fruit after your second.

What’s not included?
Airport departure tax, marine park fees, dive equipment rental

When will I receive my documents?
E-tickets and vouchers are sent approximately 3 weeks prior to your departure.

 

 

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