Business Hours
Banks: 08:30 to 15:30, Monday to Friday Post Offices: 08:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday; 09:00 to 12:00, Saturdays; some open on Sundays
Government Offices: 09:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:30, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 08:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 09:00 to 17:30 or later, Monday to Saturday; many open on Sundays
Cautions
Violence is generally uncommon in Thailand, especially violence towards tourists. However, Chiang Rai is situated near the border with Myanmar (Burma) where occasional skirmishes break out due to issues with trafficking and contraband. The Karen hill tribe also considers itself at war with the Burmese, making border areas close to these tribes especially volatile.
 Even so, it is unlikely that tourists will become entangled in these matters, so long as they stick to well-travelled routes and travel with a knowledgeable guide when heading into more remote areas.
The most substantial threat to tourists is theft and fraud. Guard your credit card closely and leave any unessential valuables at home or in a hotel safe. There are occasional stories of drugging and subsequent robbing of tourists on long-haul buses and trains, and for this reason it is wise to decline drinks and snacks offered by strangers.
Thai drivers are notoriously reckless and seldom yield to pedestrians. Always err on the side of caution when walking or cycling on a busy road. Keep in mind that roads into Chiang Rai's more remote areas may become narrow and in are occasionally unsealed. Beware of washed-out back roads during the rainy season.
Electricity: 220 volts, 50 hertz
Health
 Thailand is known for its excellent medical facilities, and the world-class infrastructure in Bangkok draws patients from around the globe seeking affordable, first-class medical procedures in conjunction with a holiday abroad. Chiang Rai's Overbrook Hospital can address typical medical problems, while more serious issues should be directed to hospitals in Chiang Mai or Bangkok.
For minor medical problems, it is often sufficient to simply visit the local pharmacy. These are widespread throughout Chiang Rai, and many medications do not require a prescription. Pharmacy staff are knowledgeable and most understand and speak enough English to assist tourists.
 Visitors are advised to check with their home healthcare provider before travelling to Thailand to make sure that all of their vaccinations are up to date. Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, Japanese encephalitis, typhoid and yellow fever are well advised.
Malaria prophylactics are also advised for those who plan to travel into Chiang Rai's rural countryside. Dengue fever is sometimes a problem in urban centres, making mosquito repellent an essential part of travellers' repertoires.
HIV infection rates persist in Thailand, and visitors should remain vigilant in protecting themselves. Bird flu (avian influenza) has not been reported in humans since 2005, though outbreaks in poultry continue.
Language
The official language of Thailand is Thai. The central dialect is widely understood throughout the country, though regional dialects can differ considerably. The various hill tribes around Chiang Rai each speak their own language which is often fundamentally different to Thai. English is understood by those involved with the tourism industry, as well as by Thailand's business elite.
Currency
 The official currency of Thailand is the Thai baht. Banknotes are issued in denominations of: 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 baht, while coins come in: 1, 5, 10 baht denominations. Further, there are 100 satang in 1 baht. While 25 and 50 satang coins are in circulation, travellers are unlikely to need or encounter them.
Currency Exchange
Cash is the most commonly traded commodity in Chiang Rai, and there are several ATMs located throughout town where international debit cards are accepted. Most of the banks are located along Phaholythin road, the main street running through town.
 International brand credit cards are accepted at the big hotels and at finer dining establishments. Banks will also issue cash advances against credit cards for a fee. Travellers' cheques can also be exchanged for cash at most banks, though they are rarely accepted in shops. For the best exchange rates, carry large-denomination travellers' cheques, as exchange fees are levied per cheque. Electronic wire transfers can be accomplished through Western Union.
Customs
Thai customs officials enforce restrictions on the export and import of the following items: pornography, drugs and firearms. Antiques may only be exported with express authorisation (which antique dealers can arrange). Visitors may not leave with more than 50,000 baht in cash without authorisation.
Everyone entering Thailand must complete a customs declaration document. Per person duty-free allowances are as follows: one litre of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, five rolls of film and one video camera.
Etiquette
 In Thailand, greetings are made by pressing the palms together under the nose in a prayer-like gesture known as a wai. Younger Thais wai their elders first, before the act is acknowledged or returned in kind. Western style handshakes are becoming more common in business circles and with the younger generation.
It is important to remain conscious of your feet in Thailand, as they are considered the lowest (and therefore dirtiest) part of the body. When visiting religious sites, refrain from touching Buddha images with your feet and from using your feet to point or gesture. This guideline extends to social situations outside of temples as well.
Opposite of the feet, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Thais don't appreciate being touched on the head (even youngsters), especially by those who they only know casually.
When visiting a temple or chedi, it is best to keep your shoulders and legs covered. Many larger temples can loan you a pair of fisherman's pants or a modest shirt. However, if this service is not available and you feel you aren't appropriately dressed, it is best not to enter the temple. Shoes should also be removed before entering a temple or Thai home. An array of shoes outside the door is a good indication that you're entering a shoes-off area.
 Hill tribe ethnic minorities in more touristy villages are accustomed to the stir of tourists and their cameras. However, you should ask permission before taking a photo. Some people may ask for a small fee in return for a photo.
Buddhist monks follow a different set of guidelines than working-class Buddhists. On buses, locals offer monks the most coveted back seat and in all situations women are careful not to come into direct contact with monks. A monk who accidentally touches (or is touched by) a woman must undergo a lengthy series of purification rites.
 Dining Etiquette Many northern Thai dishes are eaten with glutinous rice known as ‘sticky rice', which is rolled into a ball and eaten with strips of meat or fish. It is acceptable to eat sticky rice with your hands, though you won't be frowned upon if you opt for a fork and spoon. Chopsticks are not as prevalent as first-time visitors expect, except in noodle shops. However, chopsticks are mainstay in Chinese restaurants like those found on Doi Mae Salong.
In some ways, northern fare has more in common with Laotian and Burmese cuisine than with that of southern Thailand. Local curries often incorporate numerous greens and fragrant, locally-grown herbs.
When a group dines together, the person with the most seniority (whether through age or rank) pays. If a particular person did the inviting, then that person will pick up the bill. Tipping is uncommon in Thai circles, though diners usually leave behind any small change that comes back after payment. Servers in resort areas that deal primarily with Western diners are becoming more accustomed to receiving a gratuity.
Visa and Passports
 Since visa regulations are relatively fluid, visitors are advised to seek out the nearest Thai embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa information.
Citizens of most western nations qualify for a 30-day tourist visa issued upon arrival, making it unnecessary to make prior arrangement. However, 60-day tourist visas can be obtained in advance from the nearest Thai embassy or consulate. Some travellers arrive on prearranged, 90-day non-immigrant visas, though these are only available through agreements with Thai organisations or employers.
When you arrive in Thailand, your passport will be stamped to indicate when your visa expires. All passports must have at least six months of validity remaining at the time of entry.
From Chiang Rai, it is relatively easy to make a border crossing to and from Myanmar (Burma) at Mae Sai, allowing you to stay for a further 30 days. However, tourists are not permitted to stay in Thailand for more than 90 days during any six-month period.
Tourist Information Offices
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office in Chiang Rai is located on the north side of town next to Wat Phra Singh on Singhakai road. Staff here can assist you in making travel plans, and the facility is stocked with free area maps. Phone: +66 53 744 674; website: www.tourismthailand.org.
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