Question 1

Do Russians need a visa for Thailand?

Accepted Answer

No visa is needed for tourism: visa-free entry is allowed for up to 60 days (you can extend it once at immigration by another 30, up to 90 in total). However, at the border you are usually asked for a return ticket or a ticket to a third country, proof of funds (from 20,000 baht per person, 40,000 per family) and an accommodation booking. Since May 1, 2025, the digital arrival card TDAC is mandatory; fill it in online for free 3 days before departure. Without these documents there is a risk of being refused entry. A reduction of the visa-free stay to 30 days is under discussion, so check the rules before you travel.

Question 2

How much money do I need for 2 weeks?

Accepted Answer

On a budget, from 60,000–80,000 ₽ per person excluding flights, with modest hotels and local food. A comfortable holiday with good hotels and islands starts from 120,000 ₽. The main expenses are accommodation, domestic flights or ferries, and entertainment. It is useful to carry part of the sum in cash: proof of funds is checked selectively at the border.

Question 3

Phuket or Samui?

Accepted Answer

Phuket is larger, with well-developed infrastructure, convenient logistics and many beaches and excursions. Samui is calmer and greener, but takes a bit longer to reach. Their seasons are offset: when it rains on one coast, the other can be drier.

Question 4

When is the rainy season?

Accepted Answer

On the Andaman coast (Phuket) it rains roughly from May to October; on the Gulf coast (Samui), from October to December. The rain is usually short and showery rather than lasting all day. In the shoulder season there are fewer tourists and prices are lower.

Question 5

How can Russians pay in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Visa and Mastercard cards from Russian banks do not work abroad. Working options are cash (it is better to bring dollars or euros and exchange them for baht at exchange offices like Super Rich, since the airport rate is worse), UnionPay cards from certain Russian banks (not accepted everywhere) and wallets via intermediaries. For small purchases and markets, use cash only. Methods change, so check before you travel.

Question 6

Do I need insurance and an eSIM for Thailand?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend medical insurance: treatment for tourists is paid and not cheap. The easiest way to get internet is an eSIM (activated online before departure) or a local SIM at the airport; coverage at the resorts is good and a VPN is not needed.

Question 7

How do I get from Russia to Thailand in 2026?

Accepted Answer

There are direct flights from Moscow to Bangkok and Phuket (Aeroflot, Azur Air, S7), from about 33,000 ₽ one way, with a flight time of 9–10 hours. From other cities, you fly with a connection via the UAE or China. You can conveniently compare tickets in the “Flights” section.

Question 8

Is Thailand safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Thailand is safe for tourists, but beware of petty scams (bike rentals with “pre-existing” scratches, pushy tuk-tuk drivers, fake tours). The main real danger is renting a scooter without a license, experience or a helmet: it is a common cause of injuries and refused insurance claims.

Question 9

Do I need vaccinations for Thailand?

Accepted Answer

There are no mandatory vaccinations. Hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended; for jungle areas and long trips, discuss Japanese encephalitis and rabies with a doctor. Protect yourself from mosquitoes: there is a risk of dengue fever, so repellents are a must. This is general information; a doctor will give specific recommendations.

Hotels in Thailand