Currency:

There are 100 satangs in 1 baht. (B=baht) Notes are issued in denominations of B1000 (gray), B500 (purple), B100 (red), B50 (blue), B20 (green), and B10 (brown). There are 10, 5 and 1 baht coin, and 50 and 25 satang. Most foreign currencies and travelers cheques are easily changed at banks, hotels or moneychangers. All major credit cards are widely accepted throughout the kingdom.

Electricity:

The electric system is 220 Volt AC
(50 cycles). There are many plugs and sockets in use. Travelers with shavers’ tape recorders and other appliances should carry a plug-adapter kit.

Tipping:
Tipping is not a usual practice in Thailand although it is becoming more common. Most hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. Taxi drivers do not require a tip, but the gesture is appreciated.

Bargaining:

Fixed prices are the norm in department stores, but at most other places bargaining is to be expected. Generally, you can obtain a final figure of between 10-40% lower than the original asking price. Much depends on your skills and the shopkeeper's mood. But remember, Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humor. With patience and a broad smile, you will not only get a better price, you will also enjoy shopping as an art.

Language
Thai is a tonal language belonging to the group of Ka-Tai languages, the five tones are monotone, low, falling, high, and rising. This can be a rather complicated language for the visitor; however, English is quite widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial language.
Here are a few Thai basic greetings and phrases to try. Just click on the Thai versions to hear a native speaker pronounce each phrase:

Thai Boxing

Thai boxing is both a sport and a means of self-defense. Contestants are allowed to use almost any part of their body: feet, elbows, legs, knees, and shoulders are all 'weapons.' The playing of traditional music during bouts adds to the excitement. The three main venues in the Bangkok area are:
Ratchadamnoen Stadium: Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, Bangkok
Lumphini Stadium: Rama IV Rd., Bangkok
Samrong Stadium: Samut Prakan

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