IATI Blog

Travelling alone to Southeast Asia – is it safe?

13 minutes read

If you’re thinking about travelling alone to Southeast Asia, welcome! Here, you will find the energy boost you need for what could be the most incredible adventure of your life. After many years of travelling alone in Southeast Asia, I can tell you that it will be an experience that changes the way you see the world. I decided to travel alone for the first time, starting in Thailand, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I had the good fortune to travel the vast majority of Southeast Asia alone (except for Brunei and East Timor), and I would do it again. Spoiler alert: Southeast Asia is safe to travel alone and a real treat. From my perspective, it’s the best place in the world to start. Throughout this article, I’ll tell you why and provide tips and suggestions. Of course, like anywhere in the world, you need to be cautious and travel with the best insurance for Southeast Asia, IATI Backpacker (click here if your country of residence is within the European Union or click here if your country of residence is not part of the EU). Follow me and find out what it’s like to travel alone in Southeast Asia, along with tips from a female traveller. Why travel alone to Southeast Asia? Is it safe? Is it worth it? These are the three questions most frequently asked by women considering travelling alone to Southeast Asia. To sum it up quickly: this region of the world is one of the best places to start exploring solo, and it’s also incredibly safe and worth it. Let’s start with the reasons to ignite your wanderlust. The primary reason is that Southeast Asia is one of the most exotic, intriguing, evocative, and diverse regions on the planet to visit. It’s a stark contrast to Europe, and everything will feel new and captivating. From paradise beaches to temples and pagodas, spectacular marine life to impenetrable jungles, and breathtaking archaeological complexes like Angkor, Southeast Asia is a treasure trove of surprises! Like me, you could easily spend months (or even years) exploring the region and never grow tired of it. Whether you have a few weeks or several months, it’s a fabulous destination to disconnect, immerse yourself in entirely different cultures, and fulfil your travel cravings, whatever they may be. Although I’m sure you’re aware of this, travelling to Southeast Asia on your own is relatively inexpensive. What could be a drawback in other countries, such as not wanting to stay in hostels with shared dormitories, is reasonably affordable here, even for single rooms. You can find accommodations starting from €5 per night, and if you prefer taxis over public transport at times, they are also very affordable. In short, you’ll get more value for your money compared to other parts of the world, and you won’t have to worry about extra charges or peculiarities. Moreover, Southeast Asia is a popular destination for solo backpackers or digital nomads, so it is well-prepared to cater to their needs. If you’ve never travelled alone before and are concerned about feeling lost or getting bored, Southeast Asia offers options for all types of travellers. If you want to enjoy your trip alone and have some quiet time, you can do so. But if you feel like socializing and meeting new people, you can always stay in hostels or participate in activities and tours where you’re likely to find like-minded individuals. And even though it might surprise you, throughout all the years I’ve been travelling alone in Southeast Asia, I have consistently seen more women travelling solo than men. There’s a good reason for that! On the other hand, if there’s one place in the world where you can go with the flow, plan as you go, and experience the absolute freedom you desire, it’s Southeast Asia. The range of accommodation and transportation options is extensive and affordable, so there’s no need to pack everything in advance. Lastly, I understand that safety is your primary concern. While it’s important to always be cautious, rest assured that travelling alone in Southeast Asia is safe. I’ll provide more information on this below, but genuinely, don’t hesitate to embark on this adventure! Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in Southeast Asia? When considering Southeast Asia as an ideal destination for solo travel, one of the main reasons is that it is generally a very safe and peaceful part of the world. This is not to say that other places are not suitable for solo travel, but travelling alone in Southeast Asia can be less mentally burdensome and more relaxing. Violent crime in Southeast Asia is rare. While there is a possibility of petty theft or, in unlucky cases, robbery, such incidents are not common. Sexual assaults against female travellers are also infrequent. Additionally, women may not attract as much attention, even when wearing clothing that might stand out more in other countries. However, it’s important to note that this may vary from area to area, but as a general rule, women are not the focus of excessive attention. This does not mean that caution should be disregarded. It’s always advisable to trust your instincts, avoid walking in isolated areas (especially after dark), and take precautions with valuables. Remain vigilant for scams, and overcharging by taxi or tuk-tuk drivers, and be aware of the latest travel advisories issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (or equivalent) of the countries you plan to visit, as they provide information on recent hazards and dangers. On the other hand, when it comes to health, I would advise you to exercise some caution. Falling ill while travelling alone can be a bit more challenging and worrisome. So, without being overly paranoid, it’s important to be careful and use mosquito repellent. Also, be aware that drinking tap water is not recommended, and choose restaurants or street stalls where you can see a good turnover of food. The quality of healthcare infrastructure varies depending on the location. In major cities or tourist destinations, you’ll find well-equipped hospitals and clinics staffed by trained doctors. However, in rural areas, there may be more deficiencies. To ensure peace of mind, it’s highly recommended to travel with a comprehensive travel insurance policy. I always choose IATI Backpacker (click here if your country of residence is within the European Union; click here if your country of residence is not part of the European Union), a policy that offers extensive coverage for medical expenses. Additionally, it provides coverage for accidents during activities you may want to try on your trip, such as diving, snorkelling, or scuba diving. Having such insurance will offer you reassurance and protection throughout your journey. Destinations for solo travel in Southeast Asia – where should you start? I’m sure I’ve already piqued your interest, but you’re probably wondering where to begin. The answer will depend on the amount of time you have and your personal preferences, as Southeast Asia is a vast region with numerous countries, some of which are massive or consist of numerous islands that would take a lifetime to explore fully. The climate is also a factor to consider. From my experience, I would advise against getting too fixated on this aspect, as the fact that it’s the rainy season in a country doesn’t mean that it will rain every day or all the time. Far from it! I could provide an extensive list of destinations in Southeast Asia that are great for solo travel, but ultimately, they are all fantastic choices. However, here are some ideas to kick-start your planning. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below, and I’ll be delighted to assist you. 1. Thailand There’s no doubt about it – Thailand always ranks at the top of the list of destinations for solo travel and good reason. It’s a safe country that is well-adapted to tourism. Thailand is easy to navigate on your own, with abundant information available on the internet. It offers a wealth of cultural, culinary, and natural experiences, making it an ideal choice for a first solo trip to Southeast Asia. I began my solo journey here, and it served as a delightful and welcoming introduction to this style of exploring the world. 2. Indonesia Who doesn’t dream of indulging in the beauty of Bali and feeling like the star of the film Eat, Pray, Love? Beyond the allure of the movie, the “Island of the Gods” and the rest of the archipelago are truly a delight for solo travellers like us. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers enough to keep you busy for multiple trips, but you have to start somewhere. My recommendation is to allocate at least three weeks for a journey encompassing the highlights of Java (Yogyakarta, Bromo, and Ijen), Bali, Nusa Penida, the Gili Islands, Lombok, and Flores. While Indonesia may present some logistical challenges, it remains one of the finest destinations for solo travel in Southeast Asia. It strikes a balance between being safe, affordable, and tourist-friendly, yet not overly saturated with tourists. Moreover, it offers a wide array of attractions to explore. And let’s not forget about the incredible food! 3. Malaysia Sitting between Thailand and Indonesia in terms of infrastructure development, Malaysia is an excellent country for solo travel in Southeast Asia. The transportation system, including buses, trains, and planes, is efficient, making it easy to navigate the country without long transfers, particularly in Peninsular Malaysia. I have been fortunate to explore Malaysia on several solo trips, and I highly recommend visiting places like Penang, Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, and Pulau Kapas. For diving enthusiasts, Sipadan in Borneo is a must-visit destination. 4. Philippines I can’t be impartial because, after Spain, the Philippines is the country where I have spent the most time and developed a special fondness for it. In my opinion, the Philippine archipelago is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to travel alone. Not only is it inhabited by charming people who also speak English very well, but it also offers everything you can imagine: the finest beaches in Asia, stunning underwater seascapes, Spanish heritage found throughout, ancient rice paddies dating back more than 2,000 years, and hidden paradises that remain undiscovered by many. 5. Vietnam I conclude this selection of destinations for solo travel in Southeast Asia with a truly exotic choice: Vietnam. This country has gained significant popularity in recent years and offers a cultural experience that will leave you in awe, along with stunning landscapes and unique adventures. Vietnam is home to the iconic Halong Bay, which you will fall in love with during a one- or two-night cruise. You can also explore the breathtaking rice paddies of Sa Pa, visit the charming city of Hoi An, or experience the bustling yet fascinating capital city of Hanoi. It is true that, compared to other Southeast Asian countries, the Vietnamese may be somewhat less welcoming, and you may encounter instances of rudeness. However, Vietnam is a destination that you should visit at least once in your lifetime. Tips for travelling alone to Southeast Asia Finally, I’ll provide some practical tips for travelling alone to Southeast Asia based on my experience: • The main tip: Avoid becoming fixated on seeing everything and trying to cover too many places. It’s better to explore fewer destinations more thoroughly than to rush through numerous places. Simply enjoy the experience rather than focusing solely on ticking off destinations. • Obtain comprehensive travel insurance for Southeast Asia, such as IATI Backpacker. Knowing that you have a team of professionals who speak your language backing you up, access to quality hospitals when needed, and coverage for activities like diving or trekking gives you confidence and peace of mind. • The longer, the better! If possible, extend your vacation to spend more time in Southeast Asia. Since you’re travelling a considerable distance, having more days allows you to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your experience. • Schedule an appointment at an international vaccination center 1 or 2 months in advance to receive health advice from a doctor. While there are recommended vaccinations for travel to Southeast Asia, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. • Forget about consuming tap water, but you can rely on the drinking water stations available in most Southeast Asian countries. Many restaurants provide free drinkable water, which not only saves you money but also reduces plastic waste. • Indulge in street food. Not only is it more affordable than eating in restaurants, but it is also a significant part of Southeast Asian culture. Your stomach might take a couple of days to adjust, but you will soon adapt and thoroughly enjoy the experience. Whenever possible, choose stalls that are frequented by a large number of people, as this indicates higher food turnover and freshness (and usually implies better quality). • While avoiding paranoia, take precautions against mosquito bites. In Southeast Asia, especially during the rainy season, dengue fever is prevalent (I have experienced it myself). Though it is usually not fatal, it can leave you feeling extremely unwell and often requires hospitalization. Use mosquito repellent and, most importantly, do not travel without adequate travel insurance. • Having internet access on your mobile phone is highly beneficial, allowing you to check information on the go, navigate maps, and stay connected with family and friends. To save money, it’s advisable to purchase a local SIM card in each country you visit. Generally, you can find booths of local phone companies offering competitive prices at airports. However, it’s a good idea to research in advance to determine which providers offer the best services and approximate rates. • Download the Maps. my app and the maps of the countries you will be visiting. This will prove invaluable when you don’t have an internet connection available. • Install the Grab app, which is the Uber equivalent in Southeast Asia. It will be convenient and cost-effective, particularly in large cities. • Carry a scarf or sarong and a T-shirt with sleeves (even short ones) as you may need them to enter certain temples. • Remember that the sun is much stronger in this part of the world. Apply sunscreen and, if you plan to snorkel, consider bringing a T-shirt to protect yourself from sunburn and avoid contributing to sea pollution or disturbing marine life. • Travel light – This is one of the best tips for solo travel in Southeast Asia. Not only will it be more cost-effective, especially if you plan to take domestic flights, but it will also provide you with greater comfort and freedom. If you forget or need something specific, it can often be purchased locally. Additionally, laundromats are widely available and inexpensive. More tips for solo travel in Southeast Asia: • Check the entry requirements for each country and don’t assume anything. The IATI blog provides numerous articles on each country, offering valuable information. • If you have no prior experience riding a motorbike, it’s not recommended to learn during this trip. I’ve encountered many individuals who had accidents because they were inexperienced, and their journeys were marred by this unfortunate event. There are safer alternatives for transportation throughout Southeast Asia. • Although it may seem obvious, it’s crucial not to leave valuables, documents, or money in checked luggage or the storage compartments of buses, trains, or boats. Keep your most important belongings with you at all times and ensure they remain within your sight. • Take multiple debit/credit cards and familiarize yourself with the procedures for ATM withdrawals and currency exchange in each country. It’s common to incur fees for ATM withdrawals, so it’s important to be aware of the associated costs. • While it is generally safe to travel alone in Southeast Asia as a woman, it is crucial to trust your intuition and exercise common sense. Unfortunately, individuals with malicious intent can be found anywhere, including among fellow travellers. Enjoy your trip, but also avoid putting yourself in situations that could potentially lead to more serious consequences. • As a responsible traveller, it is essential to educate yourself about the places you plan to visit and the activities you intend to engage in. Regrettably, Southeast Asia is home to many tours and activities involving animal abuse (such as fake elephant sanctuaries, whale shark feeding, or civet coffee farms) or visits to villages/tribes that are ethically questionable. It is our responsibility as travellers to seek information beforehand and make informed choices. I hope I have inspired you to embark on a solo journey to Southeast Asia! Although it might sound daunting, I wholeheartedly recommend it, and I am confident that you will have an incredible experience. If you have any questions or wish to share your travel tales, please feel free to leave them in the comments section. I’ll be delighted to read and respond. Additionally, I suggest you keep an eye on the IATI blog, where you will discover a wealth of guides about this region. These resources will assist you in planning your trip and feeling more secure. Remember, information is power! Guide written by Claudia Rodriguez, from Viajar por Filipinas. Also, don’t forget to read these articles, to help you plan your adventure: • Travel Insurance for Thailand • Travel Insurance for Indonesia

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Travel tips for Thailand: 10 essentials

9 minutes read

The big moment is approaching; you have almost everything ready and you are looking for the best travel tips for Thailand to make this great adventure a perfect ten out of ten. Well, you’ve come to the right place! At IATI, we adore this country. We have visited it countless times, and thanks to our experience, we will provide you with practical information for travelling to Thailand that will make your journey much easier. From beaches and wildlife to jungles and temples, there are incredible sights to see. We assure you that with these travel tips for Thailand, you will be able to make the most of them. Know the country’s entry requirements Firstly, let’s start our list of travel tips for Thailand with the country’s entry requirements. Under normal circumstances, entering Thailand has never been too complicated. If you had a valid passport for at least six months after your arrival, you would receive a visa on arrival, allowing you to stay for 30 days. Of course, this all depends on your country of residence so make sure you confirm everything with the relevant authorities. Health and Vaccinations Another travel tip for Thailand is about health and vacines. In most countries, there are no mandatory vaccinations for travellers. However, travellers coming from countries where yellow fever is considered endemic will need to provide proof of vaccination against this disease through the international vaccination card. Although vaccinations are not mandatory, it is always advisable to seek a traveller’s consultation to determine the recommended vaccinations for Thailand. These may include vaccines for hepatitis A and B, Japanese encephalitis, and tetanus. If you plan to get vaccinated, keep in mind that some vaccines require two doses administered several days apart, so it is important to receive them well in advance—don’t leave it until the last minute. Thailand’s major cities, such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai, have excellent hospitals and medical centers. However, healthcare costs can be quite high, running into thousands of euros for tourists, so it is strongly advised to have travel insurance for Thailand. For this destination, IATI Backpacker (click here if your country of residence is within the European Union; click here if your country of residence is not part of the European Union) insurance is highly recommended. It provides access to the best specialists in the country without any out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, it covers theft, diving/snorkelling/trekking accidents, luggage problems, flight incidents, and various other situations, including repatriation. Don’t take any chances while in Thailand and secure the insurance designed for this amazing destination now! Be cautious when renting a motorbike in Thailand This travel tip to Thailand is extremely important, so don’t overlook it if you plan on driving in the country. Renting a motorbike to explore areas like Koh Tao or cities like Chiang Mai is a common and recommended practice. However, before you proceed, there are two crucial aspects to consider: legal requirements and potential scams. Firstly, the legal issue. Many tourists possess an international driving permit with the B license stamp, assuming it covers motorbike usage. However, it is not valid for motorbikes in Thailand, and if you are stopped by the Thai police for any reason, you may face fines. While this may not happen frequently, it’s essential to keep it in mind. Please note that this restriction depends from country to country. Now, let’s address a recurring scam that occurs in certain areas. There have been instances where motorbike rental companies request your passport as a deposit. Never comply with this request! Firstly, it is not a legal requirement, even if you see it being done in many places. Secondly, it can be used against you. After you return the bike, they may claim that it has dents or scratches that were not present before, and they will demand exorbitant amounts of money for repairs. If you refuse to pay, they may withhold your passport. Therefore, one of the essential travel tips for Thailand is to never surrender your passport as a deposit. Whenever you rent a motorbike, always capture a video of the bike to have evidence of its condition. This way, you can protect yourself from false damage accusations for which you are not responsible. You don’t need to carry a large amount of cash In the past, one of the major concerns before embarking on an adventure like this was “How much money should I bring?” However, that is no longer the case. The traditional process of going to the bank weeks in advance to exchange currency for the country you’re visiting is now outdated, thanks to the following travel tip for Thailand. There are now several bank cards available that are not only free but also have no fees for withdrawing money abroad. This means that as soon as you arrive, you can withdraw cash directly from ATMs at the airport, eliminating the need to carry a significant amount of cash with you. These cards typically have a monthly withdrawal limit for free transactions. This travel tip for Thailand will save you a substantial amount of money! Get a Thai SIM card for internet access in the country In addition to avoiding excessive fees when withdrawing money from banks in Thailand, you also don’t want to spend a fortune on internet usage. Having internet access is essential for checking your accounts, sharing trip photos with family and friends, booking accommodations and transportation, and using maps. While there are companies that offer data cards that can be delivered to your home in advance, allowing you to get online as soon as you arrive, we advise you that it is much cheaper to purchase a Thai SIM card upon arrival. It only takes a few minutes to set up, and you will need to research different companies and tariff options. However, in reality, the cost is significantly lower, and the amount of data available is much greater compared to the first option. Take into account the climate Considering the weather in Thailand is crucial, whether you have fixed travel dates or are determining the best time to visit. While the climate can vary depending on the region you’re in (being in Koh Lanta is different from being in Pai), we can distinguish between the following seasons: • Hot season: March to May. During this time, both temperature and humidity increase. • Rainy season: May to October. Yes, you read it right—the rainy season in Thailand coincides with the summer months when many people take their holidays. But don’t worry, this doesn’t mean your trip will be completely rainy! While there may be occasional rainy days, it doesn’t rain all day long. You might experience heavy showers, but the sun can quickly return within minutes. Additionally, rainfall is not evenly distributed throughout the country, and it’s relatively easy to predict where it will rain. • High season: November to February. This is our favourite season, and we highly recommend travelling to Thailand during this time if it fits your budget. The temperatures are more pleasant, and the chances of rain are very low. By considering the climate, you can better plan and prepare for your trip to Thailand. Avoid participating in activities involving animals Regrettably, Thailand is a country where various irresponsible activities involving animals are commonly offered. Rather than a mere travel tip, this is a sincere request: Please refrain from participating in such activities. Behind activities like taking photos with chained parrots, monkeys, bats, or lizards; riding elephants; posing with drugged tigers; or feeding fish, there is immense suffering and cruelty. Neither the photo nor the experience is worth supporting the pain inflicted upon these animals. As a responsible tourist, please make a conscious choice to avoid engaging in such activities. Inform yourself about the country before planning your itinerary The journey begins from the moment you start thinking about it. Creating your itinerary is a crucial part of your trip, as it sets the foundation for your entire adventure. So take your time and enjoy this process as well. You have probably heard about hundreds of places, but you don’t want to cover everything in a single trip. Remember, less is more. It’s better to truly enjoy a few places rather than rushing to see everything and spending half of your trip on buses, trains, or planes. Next, delve into our articles about Thailand. Read, compare, decide what you want for your trip, and conduct thorough research. Don’t get swayed solely by Instagram photos; instead, study each destination carefully. If you have any questions, feel free to ask us in the comments so that we can assist you. Learn a few Thai phrases Here’s a travel tip that can enhance your experience not only in Thailand but in any country: learn a few words in the local language, and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of smiles. We’re not suggesting that you become fluent in Thai before your trip, but if you memorize some common expressions, you’ll be able to connect with the locals and foster closer relationships with them: (If you’re a man, you’ll need to change “Ka” to “Krap”.) • Thank you: Kop Kung Ka • Greeting (hello, good morning, good evening): Sabadee Ka • What is your name?: Kun Chai Arai Ka • Ask for the bill: Check Bin Ka • Can you put the meter on?: Chai Miter Dai Mai • How much is it?: Tao Rai • No spicy: Mai Pet • I don’t eat meat (I’m vegetarian): Mang Sa Wee Rat By learning these basic phrases, you’ll be able to navigate everyday situations with greater ease and show respect for the local culture. The effort to communicate in Thai will be appreciated by the Thai people you encounter during your journey. Other tips for travelling to Thailand In addition to the previously mentioned tips, here are some additional suggestions that will also be valuable during your trip: • Respect the Thai royal family: The Thai royal family is considered sacred by law. It is strictly prohibited and can result in fines and imprisonment to mock or belittle them. Avoid taking humorous or disrespectful photos next to posters or images of the monarchs. • Show respect for Buddhism: Thailand is predominantly a Buddhist country, so it’s important to show respect for Buddhist images and temples. When visiting temples, dress appropriately by avoiding strapless clothes, shorts, and revealing necklines. Furthermore, refrain from touching Buddha’s head or turning your back on Buddha images, as these actions are considered disrespectful. • Be cautious while shopping: In cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, there are large shopping centers known for selling counterfeit goods. Keep this in mind when shopping. While purchasing a fake T-shirt as a souvenir may have minimal consequences, buying counterfeit electronic gadgets can lead to unpleasant surprises in terms of quality and functionality. Other travel tips for Thailand • Electricity: In Thailand, different types of sockets are used, so you’ll likely need an adapter to charge your devices. Make sure to bring the appropriate adapters to ensure you can easily plug in your electronics. • Transportation: Getting around Thailand is convenient, thanks to its efficient network of trains, buses, ferries, and planes. Taxis are also a common mode of transportation, and we recommend downloading the Grab app, which is the Asian equivalent of Uber. Using this app provides the added benefit of GPS-controlled journeys and ensures that you won’t have to haggle or deal with overcharging for your rides. • Gastronomy: Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Thailand’s diverse and delicious cuisine. While Pad Thai is a popular dish, there is so much more to explore. We suggest trying other delicacies such as Kai Pad, Pad Krapau, Pad Siuw, and the delightful Mango Rice Stick. Thailand offers a culinary adventure that will satisfy your taste buds. We believe that these tips will greatly enhance your trip to Thailand, enabling you to fully enjoy this adventure.

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Travel Insurance for Thailand

11 minutes read

What is the best travel insurance for Thailand? Thailand is the preferred destination for millions of travellers who year after year head to the so-called “land of smiles” in search of a variety of experiences. Thailand awaits you with exciting cities like Bangkok, numerous Buddhist temples, paradisiacal islands where you can experience unforgettable moments, and even nature routes for trekking lovers. Therefore, it is normal that you are wondering what the best travel insurance for Thailand is, especially now that it is mandatory and since the goal of this trip is to enjoy it without having to worry about health or safety issues. In this article, we will tell you about the best insurance options for travelling to Thailand, as well as their coverage and price. In addition, we will guide you step by step through the purchasing process, and you will discover how easy it is to get your travel insurance in just a few minutes. Sawatdee Khrap, Thailand! Why buy travel insurance for Thailand? A visit to a health center in Thailand usually means a high bill. In addition, as travellers, we often do not know exactly where to go, and therefore, we can end up in medical centers of questionable quality. Hiring travel insurance for Thailand is the best way to be 100% focused on your trip and enjoy all the possibilities of this country without having to worry about anything other than your fun. The range of possibilities offered by the former Kingdom of Siam is “infinite,” and the range of possibilities of needing health insurance in Thailand is equally “infinite.” A simple stumble while walking down the stairs of a spectacular Buddhist temple, a problem when diving among fish, or even any medical need you may also have in your country (digestive discomfort, headache, flu, back pain, etc), without medical insurance in Thailand, could translate into a bill of thousands of euros. Protection beyond health Good health insurance for Thailand, such as the one we recommend at IATI, does not only protect you from health-related issues. In a trip with these characteristics, although it is quite a safe country, problems such as loss or theft of luggage can occur. Without an insurance policy, you would waste a lot of time and money in a situation like this, while with travel insurance for Thailand, you would be covered, and everything would be much easier to resolve. On the other hand, an important reason to purchase your insurance is to be protected not only during, but before your trip, thanks to the cancellation coverage designed so that you do not lose the money invested in flights, accommodation, and activities. In the next section, we will talk about this and other essential coverages for your visit to Southeast Asia. Note that starting at the end of 2020, travel insurance for Thailand is mandatory. Thai authorities, aware of the high prices of quality health care, have moved from pointing out international insurance as highly recommended to definitively marking it as essential. This mandatory insurance must also meet several conditions to be valid. The two main ones are: • It must offer medical coverage of at least €100,000. • The medical coverage of the mandatory insurance must cover assistance for cases of COVID-19 Both conditions, as well as many others, indicated for a trip with these characteristics, are fully covered by IATI Backpacker (click here if your country of residence is within the European Union; click here if your country of residence is not part of the European Union) which covers up to €500,000. What is the best travel insurance for Thailand? In the next section, we will tell you in greater detail what features your travel insurance should have for Thailand, both those that the government itself marks as mandatory and those that are necessary for the different activities that come with a trip like this. If you want to travel now, don’t wait any longer and get the IATI Backpacker (click here if your country of residence is within the European Union; click here if your country of residence is not part of the European Union), the best insurance for Thailand that will accompany you throughout your trip and cover you in case of any need. What features should the best travel insurance for Thailand have? Each trip is a completely different adventure, and therefore you need a different international insurance policy. Just as for travelling to Paris or Everest, you will need a specific and different coverage for each, travel insurance for Thailand needs very specific coverage to ensure that you are always protected during your trip. What we will present to you next are the coverages that the best travel insurance for Thailand needs, all included in your IATI Backpacker policy. Free assistance in your language 24 hours a day In case you need assistance, whether medical or any other kind, the last thing you need is to explain your problem over the phone in a language that is not your own. Can you imagine having to explain in another language that you need urgent help in the middle of a complicated situation? It would be a waste of time and even if you know how to speak the language, details that can be vital could be left out. That’s why with your IATI travel insurance for Thailand, you will always be assisted in your language and, if necessary, you will have an interpreter to translate to Thai in case you need it. You can contact us for free 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. If you contact us by phone from abroad and send us the bill, we will reimburse you so that you don’t have to pay the international call price. High coverage in medical assistance Travel insurance is now mandatory and must cover a minimum of €100,000. At IATI, we always go further, and our policy for this destination doubles and exceeds this coverage, offering you up to €500,000 in medical coverage. The cost of medical care in this country can be high, and a simple visit to a quality hospital for a check-up where something as simple as an analysis and an X-ray is required can easily exceed €500. This coverage also includes another of the new requirements to make this trip, travel insurance for Thailand that also covers you in cases of Covid-19. Adventure sports in Thailand Coverage for adventure sports is 100% essential in travel insurance for Thailand. If you think this coverage only includes extreme experiences like skydiving, you are mistaken. This also includes activities such as snorkelling, diving up to 40 meters, kayaking, zip-lining, and hiking. We are sure that during your trip to Thailand, you will want to discover the underwater world, walk through its lush nature, and participate in adventure activities. Thanks to your IATI Backpacker, you can enjoy these experiences knowing that, in case something happens, you will be covered and can receive the necessary assistance, including search and rescue. Without deductibles, you won’t have to pay anything out of your pocket When looking for the best travel insurance for Thailand, you may find that most companies include things like deductible policies in small print. This means that if you take out insurance with a 100 euros deductible, even after paying for your travel insurance to Thailand, you will have to pay the first 100 euros for each medical consultation. At IATI, none of our travel insurance policies has deductibles, and we cover all costs you may need when using your IATI Backpacker policy. Medical assistance in Thailand without advance payment Thanks to your IATI Backpacker travel insurance for Thailand, you will receive the medical assistance you need, up to 500,000 euros, without having to pay in advance. The process of using your international insurance is very simple. When you need help, you contact us and, depending on your needs, we will direct you to the best medical center near your location. When you get there, they will be waiting for you. Both the visit and any possible medical tests or medications will be covered by us, and you can continue your trip happily, without paying anything out of your pocket. If you need medical assistance for any kind of emergency and can’t contact us first, don’t worry. Just keep your invoices for the visit expenses and medical documents, and when you send them to us, we will reimburse you as soon as possible. Loss of baggage and theft included Your travel insurance for Thailand should cover you beyond health aspects. Thus, the coverage that protects you in case of luggage theft or loss is also very important. Although Thailand is one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia, there may be cases where this coverage is necessary, either due to problems with your luggage or due to theft with violence or intimidation. With your IATI Backpacker (click here if your country of residence is within the European Union; click here if your country of residence is not part of the European Union), you will be covered for up to 1,500 euros in these types of cases, and you will also have our assistance service to help you with the necessary steps. You will also have extensive civil liability coverage of 60,000 euros, which will cover you in case of material or bodily damage to third parties. Option to Cancel – Cancelling Your Trip to Thailand Organizing your trip means booking flights to the country, accommodations, and activities you will do there, but what if something prevents you from making this great trip? Will you lose all the money invested in this adventure? To address the concern of many travellers, at IATI we were pioneers in creating the Option to Cancel Trip, which has become one of the favourite coverages of thousands of travellers who trust us. For example, if a serious illness arises that prevents you from making this trip, you will have the protection of up to 2,000 euros to cover everything you cannot recover directly through your providers. Thus, with your travel insurance to Thailand + Cancellation Supplement, you can count on your money to make this adventure in the future. Coverage of travel insurance for Thailand Now that you are aware of how essential it is to have insurance when travelling to Thailand and know which coverages you must have, you may want to know all the details. On the IATI Backpacker page (click here if your country of residence is within the European Union; click here if your country of residence is not part of the European Union), you can see all the detailed information. Here, as a summary of the main coverages, we show you this table so that you can visually know the major coverages of your policy. How much does travel insurance for Thailand cost? The information that will convince you that IATI Backpacker is the best travel insurance for Thailand is its price. As you can see in the following tables, the price of your policy for two weeks of travel (which is usually the average number of days that travellers choose for this destination) is even lower than one night in a mid-range hotel. This makes your international medical insurance a tiny part of your travel budget that, on the other hand, will become a huge saving in case you need any type of assistance once you’re there. IATI Backpacker for residents of the EU: IATI Backpacker for non residents of the EU: How to hire the best travel insurance in Thailand Getting travel insurance for Thailand through the intuitive menu of IATI is easy. Now that you know that IATI Backpacker is the policy you need, click on the link below and follow these simple steps: In the menu, you must fill in the following fields: • The origin of your trip • The destination of your trip • Start and end dates of your trip • Number of travellers • Type of insurance: travel insurance After filling in the menu fields and clicking on “Calculate insurance”, just choose your IATI Backpacker and click on “Contract”. This is when you can activate the Cancellation Supplement we mentioned earlier, which will cover you if you must cancel your trip for any of the reasons established in the conditions. Fill in your data, make the payment and you will receive in your email the details of your contracted travel insurance and the way to contact us if you need any kind of assistance. Isn’t it super easy to get your insurance to travel to Thailand? Useful information for travelling safely to Thailand Best time to travel to Thailand The best time to travel to Thailand in terms of weather is between the months of november and february for the central part of Thailand, as temperatures are less intense (even cooling down) and the amount of rainfall decreases. This doesn’t mean that you can’t travel to Thailand during the rest of the year! Even during the rainy season, it is an excellent destination since rain, although intense, does not last all day and the country always has areas where you can escape it. Security in Thailand Thailand is one of the safest countries in Asia, which makes it one of the most popular destinations every year. You don’t need to worry excessively about safety in the country, but you should take precautions. Health in Thailand The country has high-level hospitals in its main cities, but it can be difficult to find quality centers far from these cities. In both cases, healthcare costs are high. Therefore, it is essential, as well as mandatory, to have travel insurance when travelling to Thailand. Don’t wait any longer and get your travel insurance for Thailand, the IATI Backpacker, with the best coverage and price for this great adventure that is about to begin.

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