Medical Tourism in Thailand

Thailand uses the Thai Baht (THB), with approximately 31-34 THB to 1 USD. Credit cards are accepted at hospitals and hotels, but merchants may add a 2-3% surcharge or set a minimum spend of 300-500 THB for card transactions. Carry cash for markets, pharmacies, and smaller shops. Exchange currency at airport counters or SuperRich-branded exchange booths in the city for the best rates.

Grab is Thailand's most widely used ride-hailing app, operating in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya. Bolt is a popular alternative that typically offers fares 15-35% lower than Grab. Download both apps before arrival and compare prices for each trip, which can regularly save you 30-80 THB per ride. Both apps accept credit cards and show upfront pricing in English.

Tourist SIM cards are available immediately upon arrival at counters in all international airport arrival halls. The three providers are AIS (best rural/island coverage), TrueMove H (strong in tourist hotspots), and DTAC (often the cheapest tourist plans). Prices range from 299-1,199 THB for 8 to 30 days of unlimited data. You will need to present your passport for mandatory registration.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Thailand. Bottled water is cheap and sold everywhere, typically 10-20 THB per bottle. Ice in drinks at restaurants and even street stalls is generally safe, as it is factory-produced with purified water and delivered commercially. Thai street food is widely considered safe when purchased from busy stalls with high turnover.

Tipping is not obligatory in Thailand but is appreciated. Most restaurant bills include a service charge, so additional tipping is not expected. For drivers and hotel porters, rounding up or leaving 20-50 THB is customary. Tipping hospital staff is not standard practice at Thai private hospitals, but small gifts or thank-you notes are sometimes given at discharge as a gesture of gratitude.