VALIDATE Annual Meeting 2024: Travel and Safety Guide

VALIDATE is eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bangkok, and we are excited to host a productive and safe Annual Meeting. Thailand is well-known for its safety and hospitality, making it one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia. Each year, millions of tourists visit the country, the vast majority of whom encounter no issues. However, it's always prudent to familiarise yourself with the local environment and take common-sense precautions, as you would anywhere else. With this in mind, we have provided guidance to ensure your safety and comfort throughout your stay. You might want to print this document and bring it with you on your trip.

Please note that this document serves as a basic guide and may not encompass all the essential information required for your trip to Bangkok. We strongly advise consulting your respective government resources, insurance providers, and travel agencies for comprehensive guidance regarding visas, safety protocols, and other pertinent recommendations tailored to travellers from your country planning a visit to Thailand.

Contents

• Travel
  • Getting from the Suvarnabhumi Airport to the Royal Orchid Hotel
  • Getting around
  • Visas
  • Currency and cards
  • Nearby things to do
• Safety
  • Political Issues in Thailand
  • Insurance
  • Carry your passports (or copies)
  • Protect Your Valuables
  • Earthquakes (very unlikely)
  • Avoid Scams
• Health
  • Water
  • Malaria and Mosquitos
  • Vaccines
  • Weather – Pack an Umbrella
• Useful numbers
• Embassies
• Hotel addresses in English and Thai

Travel

As a major tourist hub, Bangkok has a decent public transport system and there are plenty of affordable taxi options. The city is notorious for traffic jams at rush hour or when it rains, so keep this in mind when planning your trip to and from the Airport.

Getting from the Suvarnabhumi Airport to the Royal Orchid Hotel

The address for the Royal Orchid Sheraton & Towers Hotel is 2 Charoen Krung 30, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand (map). 

The address is written below in both English and Thai (download a printable version)

Important note for expenses claims:  If your Annual Meeting attendance is funded by VALIDATE, please use public transport (listed below) when you are in Thailand. VALIDATE cannot refund a taxi, private hire, or Grab ride from the airport to the venue/hotel unless you are arriving extremely late/early (e.g. between 10 pm and 5 am). Our funders do not allow us to reimburse taxi journeys unless safety is an issue (i.e. late at night) or there is no public transport available on the route.

Airport Rail Link (ARL)

One of the most convenient and fastest ways to get to the Bangkok city centre is by taking the Airport Rail Link (ARL). This elevated train connects the airport with the city centre. Follow the signs within the airport to the ARL station. The station is located on the basement floor of the airport. Purchase a ticket from the vending machines or ticket counters. The ARL City Line will take you to Phaya Thai station, which is connected to the BTS Skytrain system. Tickets cost 45 baht (£1). From Phaya Thai you can take a bus or taxi to the Royal Orchid Sheraton & Towers Hotel.

• VALIDATE recommends using the ARL and bus option, as it avoids traffic delays and is cheaper. The best bus option appears to be the 2-40 AC from BTS-ARL Phaya Thai Station (follow this route)
• You can also take a Taxi from Phaya Thai. VALIDATE cannot refund this taxi, but it should only cost between £3 and £5.

Royal Orchid Airport Shuttle
You can contact the Royal Orchid and arrange a collection at the airport. Costs range from 1,800 Baht (£40) for a single car (2 – 3 people) to 3,700 Baht (£80) for a minibus for up to 6 people). You can email res172.RoyalOrchid@sheraton.com. If you are funded by VALIDATE, we would not normally be able pay for this service as part of an expenses claim. However, if you let VALIDATE know your arrival time, we might be able to arrange a group booking with other VALIDATE members - validate@ndm.ox.ac.uk. 

Bus
There are public buses that run from the airport to various parts of Bangkok. However, these can be less convenient if you have luggage or if you're unfamiliar with the city. If you choose this option, look for the bus terminal at the airport and check the route that best suits your destination in the city using Google Maps or the Via App.

The Grab App (like Uber)

Uber is not available in Thailand. However, the Grab app is available in Bangkok and offers a convenient, affordable and safe way to travel to and from the airport or just around the city. Make sure you have internet access on your phone to use these apps. If your trip to Bangkok is funded by VALIDATE, we will not be able to reimburse Grab rides as it counts as a taxi. You can pay extra (around 50 baht), to take the airport toll road, which is quicker.

Other Airport Transfers service
Apps and sites like Viator and GetYourGuide can arrange a private airport transfer for you from as little as £13 per person. You can also find decent offers when you book flights. Again, VALIDATE will not be able to cover these services as part of an expenses claim.

Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the airport. You can find them on the first floor outside the arrivals hall. Make sure to use the official airport taxi service. You'll need to go to the taxi queue and speak to the staff at the counter to get a taxi. Always insist on using the meter, as this is the most reliable way to ensure you're charged a fair rate. You can pay extra (around 50 baht), to take the airport toll road, which is quicker.  A reminder that VALIDATE cannot pay for the cost of a taxi as part of an expenses claim. 

Getting around

If you're looking to explore Bangkok during your free time, there are safe and convenient options available. Always opt for metered taxis or use the Grab app for reliable transportation. Many areas of the city are also safe and easy to explore on foot. For those interested in public transit, the Via app provides real-time information on local buses, the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT), and river boat services.

Tuk-tuks are a common sight in Bangkok, but they may not always be the safest or most cost-effective mode of transport. Often, tuk-tuk drivers will offer seemingly cheap fares, only to divert you to souvenir shops where they earn commissions. It's best to approach tuk-tuks as a tourist experience rather than a practical means of transportation. Our advice is to stick to metered taxis, Grab, or public transit for more reliable and secure travel options.

Visas

64 countries are visa exempt for entering Thailand (for short stays of 15 – 30 days). Other countries are eligible to apply for an “e-visa”. You can check this site to see your eligibility - https://www.thaievisa.go.th/

VALIDATE can’t provide detailed advice on obtaining visas. We can, however, provide a formal invitation letter and you can pass on the VALIDATE email address in case the Thai authorities need any further information – VALIDATE@ndm.ox.ac.uk.

Currency and cards

Most major credit and debit cards are accepted in large businesses, chain stores (like 7/11), hotels and restaurants in Thailand. However, many local shops and food stalls in night markets are entirely cash-based. We recommend that you have at least a small amount of Thai Baht on you when in Thailand. You can get currency at the airport. 

Nearby things to do

The Annual Meeting will be hosted in the very heart of Bangkok, with most major attractions only a short taxi or bus ride away. However, your time in Thailand may be limited, so we have listed a number of nearby places to see that are easily accessible from the hotel (and open in the evening).

ICONSIAM: Located directly across Chao Phraya River from the Hotel, ICONSIAM is a premier waterfront complex offering a blend of luxury shopping, cultural immersion, and entertainment. With a wide array of high-end boutiques, flagship stores, and upscale dining options, ICONSIAM caters to discerning shoppers and food enthusiasts alike. The complex also features immersive cultural attractions, including the ICONSIAM Heritage Museum, performances and events, and the 15ft indoor Alangkarn Waterfall. The Royal Orchid offers a free shuttle boat service across the river for easy access till 11pm.

Chinatown: A 20-minute walk, a 17-minute boat ride, or 5-minute taxi ride from the Royal Orchid is Bangkok’s famous Chinatown. Chinatown’s narrow streets are lined with an array of traditional Chinese shops, street vendors, and authentic eateries offering a broad range of cuisine. VALIDATE members can explore ornate temples like Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, browse through colourful markets for souvenirs and exotic goods, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

Safety

Thailand is a safe and friendly country, but as with anywhere, there are a few safety concerns you should be familiar with before you arrive.

Political Issues in Thailand

Political unrest during the VALIDATE Annual Meeting is highly unlikely. However, Thailand is not immune to instability, and there have been a number of successful and attempted military coups, the most recent being in 2014. There have also been terrorist attacks that have, on very rare occasions, impacted foreign visitors.

Unrest
Political instability rarely threatens visitors to Thailand, but there are a few things you can do to mitigate the risk to yourself. Avoid protests, political gatherings, demonstrations, and marches. Stay Informed about the Situation in Thailand and make a note of your own country’s embassy and its contact details (you will find a list of embassies at the end of this document). Most governments issue travel advisories for their citizens visiting Thailand on their respective official websites.

We strongly advise consulting your local government resources before your journey.

• UK Travel Advisory for Thailand
• US Travel Advisory for Thailand
• Australia Travel Advice for Thailand

Get in touch with details of your own country’s travel advisories and we will add them here – VALIDATE@ndm.ox.ac.uk

The Royal Family
The Thai Royal Family holds a central role in the national identity of the country, and any form of insult directed towards them is not only taboo but also illegal. The law of Lèse-majesté in Thailand strictly prohibits any actions that “defame, insult or threaten” the Royal Family. While we trust that VALIDATE members would not intentionally engage in behaviour that could lead to defaming or threatening anyone, including the King, it is crucial to understand that authorities take this law seriously and that foreigners have faced imprisonment under this statute.

Dangerous areas
VALIDATE is not planning on organising any excursions outside of Bangkok. However, if you are travelling on after the VALIDATE Annual Meeting, please note that the UK Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the following provinces (mostly in the south) due to regular terrorist attacks:

• Pattani province
• Yala province
• Narathiwat province
• Southern Songkhla province
• Hat Yai and Padang Besar

Keep in touch
VALIDATE will monitor the ongoing situation in Thailand and let delegates know if there are any concerns that may impact the Annual Meeting. If you spot anything in your own research, let us know – VALIDATE@ndm.ox.ac.uk.

Insurance 

We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance to cover your visit to Thailand, as it is a legal required for all visitors. Many delegates will receive insurance coverage through their employers. We advise all delegates to inform their institutions about their planned trip to Thailand. If your organisation does not provide insurance, we strongly recommend purchasing it as soon as possible. If VALIDATE is funding your Annual Meeting attendance, we can cover the cost of personal insurance as part of your expense claim.

Carry your passports (or copies)

All Thai citizens and visitors are expected to be able to produce ID if requested by the police. For foreigners, the only legitimate form of ID is usually a passport, which will include visa information. We recommend that, where possible, when you are out and about, you should keep your passport securely on your person, or at least keep a printed copy which includes a picture of your entry stamp or visa.

Protect Your Valuables 

Like most major cities, Bangkok has issues with petty theft. Rooms at the Royal Orchid have safes and we recommend using these safes to securely store valuables such as travel documents, electronics, cash, and other important items (but don’t forget them on checking-out!). When out and about, limit the amount of cash you are carrying, avoid displaying valuables, and be cautious with your mobile phone, as bag and phone snatching do occur in Thailand, as it does in other countries.

Earthquakes (very unlikely)

Though rarely serious in Bangkok, earthquakes and tremors can happen, though the more serious events occur in Northern Thailand. We might experience some earth tremors. See the US Federal Emergency Management Agency for what to do in an earthquake.

Avoid Scams

Like many other major cities around the world, Bangkok sees its share of scams targeting visitors. From tuk-tuk tours that only take you to souvenir shops, fake goods, and overpriced un-metered taxis, it's important to stay vigilant while exploring its bustling streets and markets. The general rule is that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

• This guide provides 10 examples of common scams you might experience in Bangkok.

Health

Water

Drinking tap water in Bangkok is technically safe, however, even most locals opt to drink bottled water and we recommend you do the same. Consider purchasing a Travel Water Filter Bottle to help save on plastic.  Thailand is a hot and humid country, especially in July, and you should keep hydrated. We will make sure there is plenty to drink during the Annual Meeting and you should ask either the staff at the Royal Orchid or the VALIDATE Team if you need water.

Malaria and Mosquitos

Bangkok is a low-risk Malaria area. However, you should still take basic precautions against malaria is crucial. Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, especially after sunset, to prevent mosquito bites. Use insect repellents on exposed skin and sleep under a mosquito net when needed. %50 DEET is recommended for mosquito repellent, and you can find various lotions and sprays on Amazon or similar online stores.

If you are travelling on to other part of Thailand, beware of the high risk areas for malaria  - https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/asia-east/thailand/thailand-malaria-map

Vaccines

Please consult a medical practitioner in your own country for advice on what vaccines you will need for Thailand. Recommended vaccines include tetanus and hepatitis A, and yellow fever.

Weather – Pack an Umbrella

July in Bangkok is the official “Rainy Season”. You can expect hot and rainy weather. The average temperature ranges from around 26°C (79°F) to 32°C (90°F). However, it can feel much hotter due to high humidity levels. You can expect frequent afternoon showers and occasional thunderstorms. It's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat when exploring the city.

Despite the occasional heavy rain, July will still be a good time to visit Bangkok. There will be sunshine and, as it is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season, you can experience the city's vibrant culture and attractions with fewer crowds.

Extreme Weather
Heavy storms during the rainy season can cause disruption including flooding, and landslides. Lakes, caves and waterfalls are particularly at risk of dangerous flash flooding. Follow the Thai Meteorological Department for weather warnings (especially if you are travelling outside of Bangkok after the Annual Meeting).

Useful Numbers 

• Tourist Police: 1155.
• Thailand Emergency Number: 191 / 911
• The Royal Orchid Sheraton & Towers Hotel: +66 2-266 0123
• Bangkok tourist assistance Centre: +66 2-281 5051