After overcoming many difficulties, I finally returned safely from my trip and I am currently undergoing self-quarantine due to the Omicron variant. Nevertheless, I am grateful that I had a pleasant and delightful journey. For those who may be beginners like me, I will provide some information regarding the immigration requirements (documents):
1. Flight ticket and passport.
2. English vaccination certificate (obtained from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency website, requires a certified digital certificate).
3. Insurance coverage of at least 50,000 THB (I used Ace Chubb Insurance, costing approximately 80,000 KRW, and received a refund of around 40,000 KRW through a returned email after providing proof of return flight ticket and bank account details).
4. Hotel reservation (SHA+ certified). After making the payment for your hotel reservation, you need to email the hotel representative with your flight ticket, English vaccination certificate, insurance proof (minimum 50,000 THB coverage), and a copy of your passport to request a hotel voucher for the registration of the Thailand Pass.
5. Thailand Pass registration (QR code) – It is only possible to register for the Thailand Pass after obtaining the four aforementioned documents in JPG format. There are helpful videos on YouTube that explain the process in detail.
6. English COVID-19 testing certificate within 72 hours before the flight (available at Shinlimyangji Hospital, costing approximately 80,000 KRW). If your flight is on a Monday, please ensure to check the hospital’s operating hours beforehand, as they may be closed on weekends.
I personally printed two copies of each document just to be safe, but some places may require additional copies or only ask to see them without keeping them. It varies from location to location.
Recommended applications:
– Bolt Taxi (cash payment)
– Panda Food
Recommended massage:
Dahra Spa Massage – 2-hour Thai massage for two people costs 1,000 THB. I found it to be reasonably priced and enjoyable. You can find more information on their website: https://www.dahra-spa.com/
Regarding tourist attractions:
– Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew are all open. The entrance fee for Wat Pho is 100 THB, which includes access to the reclining Buddha. During my visit, a monk kindly provided a two-hour guided explanation within the vicinity of the Buddha statue, which was very enriching.
Near Wat Pho, there is the famous Khao San Road, which gets lively from 7 PM onwards. Although the on-site guards mentioned that it closes at 10 PM, it often remains bustling until midnight. Local police presence can be observed there as well. Visitors only need to show their passports to receive a stamp on their wrists for entry.
Adjacent to the main entrance of Wat Pho, there is a restaurant called Man-se (Korean cuisine?). They are a bit expensive, but they offer dishes such as kimchi (35 THB) and stir-fried pork, which are delicious.
For the PCR test required 72 hours before departure, Taecho Rrangevi Hospital introduced by Mr. Taecho Rrangevi is a reliable option. You can make reservations on their website: https://www.medconsultasia.com. There is a Korean-language reservation page available as well. The cost is approximately 2,000 THB, which is the most affordable price I found. The hospital sent the English test certificate via email. Thai Airways kindly provided a free printout of the certificate at their office, which I submitted during check-in.
Due to the additional 10-day quarantine due to the Omicron variant, my vacation has become longer than expected. However, I hope that these beginner-friendly reviews and recommendations will be helpful for those planning to travel to Bangkok, Thailand. Please take care of your health and stay cautious of COVID-19. I’m already wishing for another massage!
(Note: The user mentioned costs in KRW without conversion, so I couldn’t provide the amounts in USD.)
If you’re staying at this accommodation in Bangkok, Thailand, you’re in luck because there are plenty of nearby tourist attractions and activities worth exploring. After ensuring you have taken care of all the necessary immigration requirements and paperwork, here are some recommendations to make the most of your stay:
One of the must-visit attractions in Bangkok is the Grand Palace, located near Wat Phra Kaew. This stunning complex of buildings and temples showcases exquisite Thai architecture and houses the Emerald Buddha, which is a revered symbol in Thai culture. The intricate details and vibrant colors found within the Grand Palace will leave you in awe.
Another popular attraction in close proximity is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. As the name suggests, it is best experienced during sunrise when the sun casts a golden glow on its spires. Climbing to the top of this temple offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Chao Phraya River and the surrounding area.
If you’re interested in Thai culture and history, a visit to the National Museum is highly recommended. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, art, and relics that provide insights into Thailand’s rich heritage. The museum often hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase different aspects of Thai culture and history.
For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, a visit to Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must. With over 15,000 stalls, this bustling market offers an incredible variety of products, from clothing and accessories to home decor and local handicrafts. Exploring the market is an adventure in itself, and you can find some unique souvenirs to take back home.
For a taste of Bangkok’s vibrant street food scene, head to Chinatown (Yaowarat). This lively neighborhood is famous for its delectable Chinese cuisine and bustling night markets. Explore the narrow alleys lined with food stalls and savor dishes like dim sum, roasted duck, and seafood delicacies. Don’t forget to try the famous mango sticky rice for dessert.
If you’re a fan of Thai traditional massage, there are countless options to choose from. While the Dahra Spa Massage near your accommodation offers a reasonably priced and enjoyable experience, you can also explore other reputable spas and wellness centers in the city. From traditional Thai massages to aromatherapy treatments, indulging in a relaxing spa session is a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Finally, a visit to Bangkok wouldn’t be complete without a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. Hop on one of the many river taxis or take a leisurely cruise to admire the iconic landmarks of the city, including Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. The river breeze and stunning views make for a memorable experience.
These are just a few of the many attractions and activities that await you in Bangkok. Remember to plan your days wisely and consider using a reliable transportation app like Bolt Taxi for convenient and affordable travel around the city. Enjoy your stay and make the most of your time in the vibrant capital of Thailand!