Travel

Travel Note

Passport

Your passport must be valid for more than 6 months beyond your entry date, or you will not be allowed entry into Thailand. You do not need a visa for a stay of up to 30 days.

Flight

Phuket International Airport (HKT)

Phuket International Airport is the main airport serving the island of Phuket in Thailand. • We recommend booking flights at least 3-6 months in advance. We booked ours in June. • Travel time can range from 20-30 hours, depending on layovers. • The airport is about a 55 minute drive to Patong Beach (where we recommend staying). • Upon arrival, we suggest ordering a ride via the Bolt app (cheaper version of Uber) or taking a taxi. • We do NOT recommend flying on a Boeing 737 Max aircraft (particularly those operated by United or American Airlines) due to recent events reported on the news. Please do your research, we want you to have a safe flight.

Hotel

Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa

There are dozens of hotels and resorts to choose from in Phuket, but we recommend staying near Patong Beach, as it's one of the most popular areas. We will be staying at Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa. We've also secured specially negotiated group rates for the week of the wedding at different hotels (link below). These rates offer significant discounts not available to the general public. However, they can fluctuate and sell out quickly, so it's best to book sooner rather than later. While this is an option, we also recommend exploring other hotel websites offering discounted rates, such as Expedia (our personal favorite). Please do your research. To give some background, Patong Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants, bars, shops, and nightlife. It's known for its bustling streets, lively nightlife scene, and its long sandy beach. It's also about a 15-30 minute drive to the wedding venue (Rosewood Phuket), depending on traffic conditions. If you enjoy being in the center of the action with plenty of entertainment options, Patong Beach is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a quieter and more serene environment, you might want to consider staying in other parts of Phuket, such as Kata Beach or Karon Beach.

Travel Note

Transportation

• As mentioned earlier, the Bolt app is the cheaper version of Uber in Thailand. We highly recommend using it as it is both convenient and affordable (available on IOS and Android). • You can arrange a ride with your hotel, depending on where you choose to stay. • If you must take a taxi, confirm the price and tell the driver to turn on their meter. Don’t get scammed! • 12Go is a popular online platform that allows travelers to book transportation across Southeast Asia, including buses, ferries, trains, and flights. It offers a convenient way to compare schedules, prices, and routes, making it easier to plan and secure travel arrangements in advance. • Tuk-tuks are another mode of transportation. They are iconic three-wheeled vehicles that offer a convenient and fun way to get around, especially for short distances or when navigating through narrow streets. However, there are a few things to consider when using tuk-tuks in Phuket - negotiating price and safety concerns. Fares are often negotiable, and it's common for drivers to quote higher prices to tourists. Be prepared to haggle for a fair price. As for safety concerns, tuk-tuks may not always adhere to strict safety standards. It's essential to ensure that the vehicle is in good condition and that you feel comfortable with the driver before getting in.

Travel Note

Currency

• Currency: the local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Current exchange rates are approximately 36.50 THB per US dollar. • Cash: ATMs are widely available. We recommend withdrawing larger amounts to minimize fees. Exchange booths and banks offer better rates than the airport. • Credit Cards: major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues. • Small Expenses: carry small bills and coins for street food, taxis, and small vendors. • Emergency: keep a backup card and note your bank’s international contact number. Travel insurance can provide extra peace of mind.

Travel Note

Cell Service & Data

• Local SIM Cards or Roaming Plans: you may activate international roaming plans with your mobile carrier or purchase a SIM card upon arrival at the airport (International Terminal on the 1st floor). We recommend Truemove or AIS SIM cards. Workers at the airport will be able to help you activate your SIM card. • eSIM: we suggest you use eSIM while traveling in Thailand. With newer phone models, eSIM allows you to activate a cellular plan without needing a physical SIM card (check with your carrier to make sure your phone is unlocked. Some carriers lock your phone). eSIM Installation: 1. Download the Airalo or DENT app from the App Store (IOS) or Google Play Store (Android). 2. Browse available eSIM plans for their destination(s) and select the desired plan based on data allowance and validity. 3. Follow the on-screen instructions to purchase and activate the eSIM plan.

Travel Note

Travel Insurance

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance through World Nomads. Prices vary depending on how long you stay. A typical 5 day trip ranges from $50 - $150, depending on several factors, including your age, country of residence, the level of coverage you choose, any optional add-ons you include, etc.

Travel Note

Health & Safety Tips

To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip, we wanted to share some helpful health and safety tips regarding dengue fever. Dengue is a mosquito-borne illness found in tropical areas, including Thailand, and has been around for several decades. While the risk is relatively low during the dry season (November-April), it’s always good to take some simple precautions. We visited Thailand back in 2022 and had no issues. Below are a few tips to help you stay safe. • Use Insect Repellent: apply a good insect repellent to exposed skin, especially during early morning and late afternoon when mosquitoes are most active. Look for products containing picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. • Wear Appropriate Clothing: during those active times noted above, wearing lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants can help. • Stay in Comfortable Accommodations: choose hotels with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out. • Be Mindful of Still Water: avoid areas with stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, such as in puddles, buckets, plant saucers, or other containers. We’ve taken steps to ensure your comfort and safety, and by following these tips, you can enjoy your trip without worry. If you have any questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.