Requisitos de Visto para Cidadãos Angolanos na Tailândia.

Population and Size of Country

Thailand has a population of approximately 70 million people, while Angola has around 35 million. Thailand covers an area of about 513,120 square kilometers, making it smaller than Angola, which spans roughly 1.25 million square kilometers.

Ethnicity

In Thailand, the majority ethnic group is Thai, making up about 95% of the population. There are also smaller communities of Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. Angola’s population is more ethnically diverse, with major groups including Ovimbundu (37%), Ambundu (25%), and Bakongo (13%), along with smaller groups and a significant number of mixed-race and European-descended people.

Religion

Buddhism is the predominant religion in Thailand, with about 93% of the population adhering to Theravada Buddhism. In contrast, Angola is primarily Christian, with Roman Catholicism practiced by about 41% of the population and various Protestant denominations making up around 38%.

GDP

Thailand has a higher GDP compared to Angola. As of recent data, Thailand’s GDP is approximately $543 billion USD, whereas Angola’s GDP is around $66 billion USD. This difference reflects varying levels of economic development and diversification between the two countries.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand’s population is aging, with a median age of about 40 years. Approximately 12% of the population is over the age of 65. In contrast, Angola has a much younger population, with a median age of around 16 years and over 60% of its population under the age of 25.

Men vs Women

The gender ratio in Thailand is relatively balanced, with a slight female majority: about 51% women to 49% men. Angola also has a balanced gender ratio but leans slightly towards more women due to higher male mortality rates, especially among younger men.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from tourism, manufacturing (especially automotive and electronics), agriculture (notably rice), and services. Angola’s economy is heavily reliant on oil production, which accounts for over 90% of its export revenues. Other sources of income include diamonds, agriculture, and fisheries, but these sectors are less developed compared to Thailand’s diversified economy.

Violent Crime

Thailand generally has a lower rate of violent crime compared to many other countries. Tourists, including those from Angola, are unlikely to encounter violent crime if they stick to well-populated and tourist-friendly areas. However, incidents can occur, particularly in less crowded or poorly lit areas. It’s advisable to remain vigilant and avoid confrontations.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft are more common in tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. Travelers should keep their belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places. Using a money belt and not flaunting valuables can help minimize risks.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, often involving domestic disputes or relationships gone awry, are generally not a concern for tourists. These incidents are usually isolated and do not affect visitors. Nonetheless, it’s always wise to exercise caution in personal relationships.

Safety for Solo Women Travellers

Thailand is relatively safe for solo women travelers, but it’s important to remain cautious. Women should avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and be wary of overly friendly strangers. Using reputable transportation services and staying in well-reviewed accommodations can enhance safety.

Walking around at Night

Walking around at night in well-lit, busy areas is generally safe. However, some neighborhoods can become sketchy after dark. It’s best to avoid poorly lit streets and deserted areas. Stick to main roads and areas with a visible security presence.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are common in Thailand. These can range from taxi overcharging and gem scams to fake tour operators. Always use licensed services, agree on fares beforehand, and be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true. Researching common scams before your trip can help you recognize and avoid them.

By understanding these differences and taking appropriate precautions, travelers from Angola can enjoy a safe and pleasant stay in Thailand.

Thailand and Angola both have rich culinary traditions that emphasize bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a balance of tastes. Travelers from Angola will find several similarities in the food culture of Thailand, making their culinary exploration both exciting and somewhat familiar.

In both Thailand and Angola, rice is a staple food. In Thailand, you can try various rice dishes such as Khao Pad (fried rice) and Khao Niew (sticky rice), which may remind Angolan travelers of their own rice-based dishes like arroz de marisco. Both cuisines also make extensive use of fresh herbs and spices. Thai dishes often include lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, while Angolan cuisine uses ingredients like garlic, bay leaves, and chili.

Seafood is another common element in both countries’ cuisines. In Thailand, travelers can enjoy Tom Yum Goong, a spicy and sour shrimp soup, or Pla Pao, grilled fish stuffed with lemongrass. These dishes might be reminiscent of Angolan seafood stews like caldeirada de peixe.

Street food is a vibrant part of the culinary scene in both countries. In Thailand, visitors should not miss out on trying Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles), Som Tum (papaya salad), and Satay (grilled meat skewers). The bustling street food markets in cities like Bangkok offer a similar atmosphere to Angola’s street food vendors, providing an array of quick and flavorful meals.

Both cuisines also feature hearty stews and curries. In Thailand, Gaeng Daeng (red curry) and Massaman Curry offer rich, complex flavors that Angolan travelers might find akin to their own moamba de galinha or calulu.

For dessert, Thai sweets such as Mango Sticky Rice and Khanom Buang (crispy pancakes) offer a delightful end to a meal. These could be compared to Angolan desserts like cocada amarela or doce de ginguba, which also use local fruits and ingredients to create sweet treats.

Overall, while exploring Thai cuisine, Angolan travelers will discover many familiar elements alongside new and exciting flavors.

Cultural Differences and Making Friends

In Thailand, making friends often involves a gentle and respectful approach. Thais value humility and politeness, so it’s important to be courteous and avoid aggressive behavior. Smiling is a common way to show friendliness and respect. When greeting someone, a traditional Thai “wai” is often used, which involves placing your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly. This is especially important when meeting elders or people in positions of authority.

What to Do

• Respect Elders: Always show respect to older people and those in higher social positions.
• Dress Modestly: When visiting temples or religious sites, dress conservatively. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Remove Shoes: Take off your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.
• Use Both Hands: When giving or receiving something, use both hands or your right hand with your left hand supporting your right arm.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
• Do Not Touch the Head: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching anyone on the head.
• Avoid Pointing Feet: Feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body, so avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects.
• Do Not Raise Your Voice: Thais value calm and composed behavior. Raising your voice or showing anger in public is seen as losing control.

Habits Not to Bring from Angola

• Loud Speaking: Speaking loudly can be seen as disrespectful in Thailand.
• Direct Confrontation: Thais prefer indirect communication and avoiding confrontations. Be subtle and tactful in your interactions.

Deportment and Respect

• Respect for the Monarchy: The Thai monarchy is highly revered. Always show respect when discussing the royal family.
• Public Behavior: Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor in public spaces. Avoid loud or disruptive behavior.

Touching and Religious Places

• Monks: Women should avoid physical contact with monks. If you need to hand something to a monk, place it on a cloth or have another man hand it over.
• Sacred Sites: Always dress modestly and behave respectfully at temples and other religious sites. Photography may be restricted in certain areas.

Public Presentation of Oneself

• Cleanliness: Thais value cleanliness and neatness in appearance.
• Modesty: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Behavior on Public Transport

• Quietness: Keep conversations at a low volume.
• Offer Seats: Offer your seat to monks, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with disabilities.
• Queueing: Thais generally queue up for public transport; cutting in line is considered rude.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “losing face” refers to being embarrassed or humiliated in public, which can damage one’s social standing. Avoid actions that may cause someone to lose face, such as public criticism or confrontation. On the other hand, “gaining face” involves actions that enhance one’s social standing, such as showing respect, being polite, and offering compliments. Maintaining face is crucial in Thai society, so always strive to be respectful and considerate in your interactions.

Bringing Phone from Angola

Ensure your phone is unlocked for international use. Thailand operates on GSM networks, compatible with most global phones. Check with your Angolan service provider about international roaming rates, but it’s generally more cost-effective to use a local SIM card.

Internet Availability

Thailand has excellent internet coverage in urban areas and tourist destinations. Free Wi-Fi is commonly available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. For constant connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan from providers like AIS, DTAC, or TrueMove.

Dominant Messaging Apps

Line and WhatsApp are the most popular messaging apps in Thailand. Line is particularly dominant, used for both personal communication and business purposes. Download and set up these apps before your arrival.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

• Google Maps: For navigation.
• LINE: For messaging and local communication.
• Grab: For taxis and food delivery.
• Bangkok MRT: For metro navigation in Bangkok.
• Thai Baht Currency Converter: For real-time currency conversion.
• TripAdvisor: For restaurant and attraction reviews.

Currency

The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Familiarize yourself with the exchange rate before traveling. Currency exchange services are widely available at airports, hotels, and exchange booths in tourist areas.

ATM Use

ATMs are ubiquitous in Thailand. Most accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard). Be aware of the withdrawal fee (usually around 200 THB per transaction) and inform your home bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the most reliable app for booking taxis in Thailand. It is widely used and offers various services including GrabCar, GrabBike, and even food delivery.

Food Delivery

Food delivery services are popular in urban areas. GrabFood and Foodpanda are the leading apps, offering a wide range of local and international cuisine delivered to your doorstep.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, large restaurants, and shopping malls. However, smaller vendors and street markets often require cash. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted.

Shopping

Thailand offers a range of shopping experiences from high-end malls to bustling street markets. Popular shopping areas include MBK Center, Siam Paragon, and Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok. Always carry some cash for market shopping.

Trains

Thailand’s train network is extensive and a great way to travel between cities. The State Railway of Thailand operates services including the efficient Skytrain (BTS) in Bangkok. Booking tickets in advance is recommended for long-distance travel.

Local Buses

Local buses are an affordable way to get around cities but can be confusing for non-locals due to language barriers and lack of clear schedules. In Bangkok, the BMTA operates a comprehensive bus network. Alternatively, consider using the BTS Skytrain or MRT for ease of navigation.

Acceptance of Men from Angola

Thai people are generally welcoming and curious about foreigners, including men from Angola. While there may be some curiosity about your background, this can be a great opportunity to share your culture and make a positive impression.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Angola

You could say something like, “I’m from Angola, where we dance to the rhythm of our hearts!” This can be a light-hearted way to introduce your nationality and spark a conversation about music and dance.

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have a large user base and are commonly used by Thai women looking to meet new people.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Sawadee krap! Your smile caught my eye. How’s your day going?”
• “I’m new to Thailand and would love some local tips. What’s your favorite place to visit?”
• “Hi! I’m from Angola. Have you ever met someone from my country before?”

Teaching Thai Women About Angolan Culture

You can share interesting aspects of Angolan culture such as traditional music (Kizomba), food (Muamba de Galinha), and festivals (Carnaval de Luanda). Sharing photos and videos can make the conversation more engaging.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and maintain good personal hygiene. Casual but clean attire is generally acceptable. For dates, consider wearing smart-casual clothes like a nice shirt and clean jeans or trousers.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• Inconsistent stories or information about their background.
• Reluctance to meet in public places.
• Asking for money or gifts early in the relationship.
• Excessive flattery or declarations of love too quickly.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

• Fake profiles asking for financial help or gifts.
• Profiles that try to move the conversation off the app too quickly.
• Profiles that avoid video calls or meeting in person.

Major Difference in Dating Between Angola and Thailand

In Thailand, dating is often more conservative, especially in rural areas. Public displays of affection are less common compared to Angola. Family approval can also play a significant role in relationships.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Angolan Women

Thai women may be more reserved initially compared to Angolan women, who might be more expressive and open. Thai women often value politeness and subtlety in communication, while Angolan women may appreciate directness and enthusiasm.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a local market or night market.
• Dining at a Thai restaurant.
• Exploring cultural sites like temples or museums.
• Taking a walk in a park or along the beach.

Red Light Districts

Areas like Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are known for their nightlife and red light districts. Exercise caution if visiting these areas as they can be overwhelming and may not reflect typical Thai culture.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Be aware that some profiles on dating apps may be linked to prostitution. Signs include overly suggestive photos, discussions about money early on, or profiles that seem too good to be true.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Coffee Shops: Popular chains like Starbucks or local cafes.
2. Universities: Attend public lectures or events.
3. Parks: Lumphini Park in Bangkok is a great spot.
4. Shopping Malls: Places like Terminal 21 or Siam Paragon.
5. Cultural Events: Festivals, concerts, and traditional performances.
6. Gyms: Fitness centers like Fitness First or local gyms.
7. Language Schools: Enroll in Thai language classes.
8. Volunteer Organizations: Join community service groups.
9. Cooking Classes: Learn Thai cuisine together.
10. Social Clubs: Expats clubs or hobby groups.

These tips should help you navigate the dating scene in Thailand effectively and respectfully while making meaningful connections.

Practical Guide: Extending a Thai Tourist Visa or Visa Exemption for Angolan Passport Holders

Extending your stay in Thailand as an Angolan passport holder involves several steps and requirements. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth process.

1. Prepare Necessary Documents

Before heading to the immigration office, gather the following documents:

• Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 6 months.
• TM.7 Form: This is the application form for visa extension. You can download it online or get it at the immigration office.
• Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent photos (4x6 cm).
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking or rental agreement.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or cash showing sufficient funds for your stay.
• Visa Extension Fee: 1,900 THB (subject to change).

2. Visit an Immigration Office

Find the nearest immigration office. Major offices are located in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and other major cities. Arrive early to avoid long queues.

3. Submit Your Application

At the immigration office:

• Fill out the TM.7 form if you haven’t done so already.
• Submit your documents to the officer.
• Pay the extension fee (1,900 THB).

4. Wait for Processing

Processing time can vary. In some cases, you might get your extension on the same day, while in others, you may need to return the next day.

5. Receive Your Extension

Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the new visa extension date. Ensure all details are correct before leaving the immigration office.

6. Keep Track of Your New Expiry Date

Make a note of your new visa expiry date to avoid overstaying, which can result in fines and potential blacklisting from re-entering Thailand.

Tips for a Smooth Extension Process

• Dress Appropriately: Wear respectful clothing when visiting government offices.
• Arrive Early: Immigration offices can be crowded, especially in tourist-heavy locations.
• Check Public Holidays: Offices are closed on Thai public holidays.
• Language: While many officers speak English, having a basic understanding of Thai or a translation app can be helpful.

By following these steps, Angolan passport holders can extend their stay in Thailand without hassle. Enjoy your extended time in the Land of Smiles!