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At the AirportSuvarnabhumi, Bangkok’s International Airport, is located approximately 25 kilometres southeast of the city centre on the eastbound side of the Bangna-Trat Highway at Kilometre 15. Transfers from most hotels generally take less than 40 minutes. The airport is also only 90 minutes from the beach resort of Pattaya.Taxis can be hired at the transportation centre, accessed via airport shuttle buses that stop at several locations just outside the 2nd Level Arrival Hall.Passengers depart Bangkok from the 4th Level, which has 10 entrances. Check-in for THAI’s international passengers ying rst or business class is accessed through Entrance 1, while those in economy class check-in via Entrance 4. Check-in for THAI domestic ights is accessed via Entrance 2.A 26-kilometre high-speed rail link opened in 2010. The line connects with the skytrain and the MRT underground stations at Phayathai and Petchburi respectively. The trip takes approximately 15 minutes.Avoid unauthorised taxi and sightseeing touts seeking to divert Royal Orchid Holidays passengers. If in doubt, ask to see a THAI representative.Thai currency is the baht, divided into 100 satang. Notes come in B1,000, B500, B100, B50 and B20 denominations. There are also B10, B5, B2, B1, 50 satang and 25 satang coins. Cash and traveller’s cheques can be readily exchanged with banks and moneychangers. Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops. Give a 10% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included. Tip porters and bag boys B20. Don’t tip taxis, but you must pay expressway tolls.THAI and other domestic airlines operate regular ights to cities, towns and resorts throughout the country. Thailand’s rail service is ef cient, and V.I.P. buses are also available.Bangkok’s subway and elevated skytrain quickly move passengers around town, with three interchange stations allowing tourists to swiftly reach Chatuchak Weekend Market, the Chao Phraya Riverboat, shopping complexes, hotels, attractions and entertainment districts.Most hotels operate reliable limousine services, but there are numerous less expensive public taxis available around the clock. taxis with “taxi meter’ signs, and be sure they switch on the meter. Bring a hotel name card, in Thai, to assist in your return. Tuk-Tuks (three-wheel mini taxis) must be bargained for in advance. Bangkok also has an extensive public bus and ferry service.Car HireLeading car rental companies have desks at main airports with self or chauffer-driven cars available. An international license is required for drivers, but most accept American, EU or Australian national licenses. Driving is on the left side of the road.Airport CautionCurrency, Credit Cards & TippingTravelling in ThailandGetting Around BangkokLocal TimeThailand time is GMT +7 hoursElectricityElectric current is usually 220 volts A/C (50 cycles). Various plugs and sockets are used; better hotels supply adapters and transformers for 110V equipment.Government of ces are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on public holidays. Business of ces generally operate between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. with some opening Saturday mornings. Banks open at 8:30 a.m. Monday to Friday, and close at 3:30 p.m., though a few have evening hours.ShoppingThailand is home to malls, department stores, upscale boutiques and day and night bazaars. Only buy jewellery at reputable shops, and insist on a certi cate guaranteeing the quality. Avoid street touts who receive a hefty commission.FestivalsHundreds of festivals and temple fairs are celebrated throughout Thailand. The Songkran Thai New Year in mid-April attracts thousands from around the world, and Loy Krathong, the candle festival, lights up waterways in November.Contact worldwide of ces of the Tourism Authority of Thailand for the exact calendar or visit the TAT’s website at www.tourismthailand.com.Business HoursROYALORCHIDHOLIDAYS 15