The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season from November to early April. This period offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring beaches, temples, and outdoor attractions. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. The rainy season from July to October can offer lower prices and fewer tourists, but be prepared for occasional showers and higher humidity.

Most tourists can enter Thailand without a visa for stays up to 30 days if arriving by air or land. This applies to many nationalities, including citizens of the US, UK, EU countries, Australia, and Canada. For longer stays or other purposes, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Always check the latest visa requirements with the Thai embassy or consulate in your country before traveling, as regulations can change.

It's generally not recommended to drink tap water in Thailand. While the water is treated and may be safe in some areas, it's best to err on the side of caution and stick to bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive. Use bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, and making ice. Most hotels and restaurants provide safe drinking water or have water filters. When buying bottled water, ensure the seal is intact to avoid tampered products.

Respect for the Thai royal family is crucial; never speak negatively about them. Remove your shoes before entering temples or someone's home. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid touching anyone's head, as it's considered sacred. Use your right hand for passing objects or eating. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. When greeting, use the traditional Thai wai (pressing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture) instead of hugging or kissing. Always remain calm and avoid raising your voice in public, as losing your temper is seen as a sign of weakness.

Tipping is not a common practice in Thailand, but it is becoming more expected in tourist areas. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often added to the bill; if not, a 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service. For taxis, rounding up the fare is sufficient. In hotels, tip bellboys 20-50 baht per bag and leave 20-100 baht per day for housekeeping. For tour guides, 200-300 baht per day is standard. Remember, tipping is not mandatory, but it's a nice gesture for good service, especially given the relatively low wages in the service industry.