Visabestimmungen für österreichische Staatsbürger in Thailand.

Population

Austria has a population of approximately 9 million people, whereas Thailand’s population is significantly larger, with around 70 million inhabitants.

Size of Country

Austria covers an area of about 83,879 square kilometers, making it relatively small compared to Thailand, which spans approximately 513,120 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Austria’s population is predominantly ethnic Austrian (Germans), with minorities including Turks, Serbs, and others. Thailand is primarily ethnically Thai, with significant minorities such as Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes.

Religion

In Austria, the predominant religion is Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism. Thailand is predominantly Buddhist, with over 90% of the population adhering to Theravada Buddhism. There are also Muslim, Christian, and Hindu minorities.

GDP

Austria has a higher GDP per capita compared to Thailand. Austria’s GDP per capita is around $52,000, reflecting its status as a high-income country. Thailand’s GDP per capita is approximately $7,000, classifying it as an upper-middle-income country.

Population Age Brackets

Austria has an aging population with a median age of around 44 years. In contrast, Thailand has a younger population with a median age of about 40 years. Both countries are experiencing demographic shifts toward older populations.

Men vs Women

In Austria, the gender ratio is relatively balanced, with a slight female majority. Thailand also has a fairly balanced gender ratio but with a marginally higher number of women than men.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Austria’s economy is highly diversified, with significant income generated from industries like manufacturing (especially machinery and vehicles), services (including tourism and banking), and technology. Thailand’s economy relies heavily on agriculture (notably rice and rubber), manufacturing (electronics and automotive), and tourism. Additionally, Thailand has a significant informal economy that contributes to household incomes.

Violent Crime

Thailand generally experiences lower rates of violent crime compared to many Western countries, including Austria. Violent crimes such as armed robbery and assault are relatively rare, especially in tourist areas. However, it is always wise to exercise caution and avoid poorly lit or secluded areas at night.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded places such as markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Travelers should keep their belongings secure and be mindful of their surroundings. Unlike in Austria, where casual crime might be less frequent, it is more common in tourist-heavy areas in Thailand.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, often fueled by personal relationships or domestic issues, do happen but are typically confined to local communities and rarely involve tourists. Such incidents are more visible in local news but generally do not pose a significant risk to travelers.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers

Thailand is considered relatively safe for solo women travelers. Many women travel alone without encountering major issues. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night, dressing modestly in rural or conservative areas, and being cautious when accepting drinks from strangers.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in tourist areas like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket is generally safe, but caution is advised. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Unlike Austria, where walking at night might feel safer due to lower crime rates, extra vigilance is recommended in Thailand.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are more prevalent in Thailand. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers, gem scams, and fake tour operators. Always use reputable services, agree on prices beforehand, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. In comparison, Austria has fewer tourist-targeted scams, making this a notable difference for Austrian travelers.

By staying informed and vigilant, travelers can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Thailand.

Thai cuisine and Austrian cuisine, while distinct, share some similarities that can make Austrian travelers feel at home while exploring new flavors. Both culinary traditions emphasize fresh ingredients and a balance of flavors, though the specific combinations and dishes differ significantly.

In Thailand, you’ll find a variety of dishes that emphasize freshness and vibrant flavors, much like Austrian salads and fresh vegetable dishes. Thai cuisine often combines sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors in a single dish. For example, “Som Tum” (green papaya salad) offers a refreshing mix of these tastes, somewhat akin to the tanginess found in a well-dressed Austrian salad.

Both countries enjoy hearty soups, though the flavors and ingredients differ. Austrian travelers might find comfort in Thai soups like “Tom Yum” (a hot and sour soup with shrimp) or “Tom Kha Gai” (a coconut milk-based soup with chicken), which provide rich and complex flavors similar to the depth found in Austrian soups like “Gulaschsuppe.”

Meat lovers from Austria will appreciate Thai dishes that focus on well-seasoned meats. “Moo Ping” (grilled pork skewers) and “Gai Yang” (grilled chicken) offer savory, marinated meats that might remind Austrians of their own grilled specialties like “Wiener Schnitzel,” though the spices and preparation methods differ.

Noodle dishes are another area of overlap. While Austria has its own noodle traditions such as “Käsespätzle,” Thai cuisine offers a wide array of noodle dishes like “Pad Thai” (stir-fried noodles with shrimp, tofu, and peanuts) and “Pad See Ew” (stir-fried noodles with soy sauce, meat, and vegetables), which provide a unique yet somewhat familiar comfort.

For those with a sweet tooth, Thai desserts can be an exciting adventure. “Mango Sticky Rice” combines ripe mangoes with sticky rice cooked in coconut milk, offering a sweet treat that contrasts yet complements the rich desserts of Austria like “Sachertorte” or “Apfelstrudel.”

In summary, while Thai and Austrian cuisines are distinct, travelers from Austria will find familiar elements in the emphasis on fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, hearty soups, well-seasoned meats, comforting noodle dishes, and delightful desserts. Exploring Thai food offers a chance to enjoy new tastes while finding comfort in some familiar culinary principles.

Cultural Differences and Making Friends

In Thailand, making friends often starts with a warm smile and a polite greeting. The traditional Thai greeting, known as the “wai,” involves placing your palms together in a prayer-like position and bowing slightly. This gesture is a sign of respect and is commonly used when meeting someone for the first time. Austrians, who are used to handshakes, should adopt the “wai” to show respect and friendliness.

What to Do

• Respect Elders and Authority Figures: Thais place a high value on respect for elders and authority figures. Always address older people and those in positions of authority with the utmost respect.
• Dress Modestly: When visiting temples or religious sites, ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered. Removing shoes before entering homes and temples is also a common practice.
• Be Polite and Soft-Spoken: Thais appreciate politeness and a soft-spoken demeanor. Loud or aggressive behavior is generally frowned upon.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: While holding hands is generally acceptable, more intimate displays of affection are considered inappropriate in public.
• Do Not Touch People’s Heads: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture. Avoid touching anyone’s head, even in a friendly manner.
• Avoid Pointing Your Feet: Feet are seen as the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Do not point your feet at people or religious objects, and avoid showing the soles of your feet.

Habits Not to Bring from Austria

• Direct Confrontation: Austrians who are used to direct communication should avoid confrontations in Thailand. Thais prefer indirect communication to avoid causing embarrassment.
• Public Criticism: Criticizing someone publicly can lead to a loss of face, which is deeply humiliating in Thai culture.

Deportment and Respect

• Public Presentation: Dress neatly and appropriately. Casual clothing is acceptable, but it should be clean and tidy.
• Behavior on Public Transport: Be patient and courteous. Offer your seat to monks, elderly people, and pregnant women. Keep conversations quiet and avoid making phone calls unless necessary.

Touching and Religious Places

• Monks: Women should avoid physical contact with monks. If a woman needs to give something to a monk, it should be handed through a male intermediary or placed on a cloth that the monk will then pick up.
• Temples: Always remove your shoes before entering a temple. Dress modestly, and avoid taking photos in restricted areas.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “face” refers to one’s reputation, dignity, and social standing. Losing face can occur through public criticism, failure, or any situation that causes embarrassment. Gaining face involves actions that enhance one’s reputation, such as showing respect, achieving success, or demonstrating generosity. Maintaining face is crucial for social harmony; therefore, Austrians should be mindful of their actions and words to avoid causing embarrassment to themselves or others.

Bringing Phone from Austria

Ensure your phone is unlocked for use with international SIM cards. Thailand operates on GSM networks, compatible with most European phones. Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival for better rates on calls and data.

Internet Availability

High-speed internet is widely available in Thailand. Hotels, cafes, and restaurants often provide free Wi-Fi. For mobile internet, 4G coverage is extensive in urban areas and tourist destinations; 5G is also emerging.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are also commonly used. Download these apps before your trip to stay connected.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

• LINE: For messaging and local communication.
• Grab: For taxi services and food delivery.
• Google Maps: For navigation.
• Airbnb or Agoda: For accommodation bookings.
• XE Currency Converter: To track exchange rates.

Currency

The Thai Baht (THB) is the official currency. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and street markets. Currency exchange services are widely available at airports, banks, and exchange booths.

ATM Use

ATMs are plentiful in cities and tourist areas. Austrian credit and debit cards are generally accepted, but check with your bank for international withdrawal fees. ATMs usually dispense cash in Thai Baht.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the go-to app for booking taxis and private cars. It’s reliable and offers transparent pricing. Bolt is another option gaining popularity.

Food Delivery

Food delivery services like GrabFood, Foodpanda, and Lineman are widely used. These apps offer a variety of local and international cuisine options delivered to your doorstep.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, major hotels, and restaurants. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted. However, smaller shops and rural areas may only accept cash.

Shopping

Bangkok offers numerous shopping options, from luxury malls like Siam Paragon to local markets such as Chatuchak Weekend Market. Bargaining is common in street markets but not in malls or branded stores.

Trains

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operates an extensive rail network. Train travel is a scenic way to explore the country, with options ranging from budget seats to first-class cabins. Book tickets in advance during peak seasons.

Local Buses

Local buses are an economical way to get around cities and towns. However, they can be confusing for non-Thai speakers due to limited English signage. For intercity travel, consider using VIP buses for more comfort.

Acceptance of Men from Austria

Thai people generally have a positive view of foreigners, including Austrians. Being polite, respectful, and showing genuine interest in Thai culture will earn you goodwill. Thai women often appreciate the exotic appeal of dating a foreigner, but mutual respect is key.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Austria

You can say, “I’m from the land of Mozart and mountains!” or “I come from the country that gave the world Arnold Schwarzenegger and schnitzel!” A bit of humor helps break the ice.

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Badoo, and ThaiCupid. Bumble is also gaining popularity. These platforms are user-friendly and widely used by Thai women looking to meet foreigners.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Sawadee krap! How are you today?”
• “I love Thai food! Do you have any recommendations?”
• “What’s your favorite place in Thailand? I’d love to explore more!”

Teaching Thai Women About Austrian Culture

You can share stories about Austrian traditions like Christmas markets, the Vienna Opera Ball, or the beauty of the Austrian Alps. Sharing music from Mozart or modern Austrian artists can also be a fun way to introduce your culture.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress smartly but comfortably. Casual wear is fine for most occasions, but make sure your clothes are clean and neat. Personal hygiene is very important; regular showers, fresh breath, and groomed appearance go a long way.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• If she asks for money early on.
• If she avoids answering personal questions.
• If her profile seems too good to be true or overly professional.
• If she is overly secretive about her life.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

Be cautious if someone:

• Asks for financial help or gifts.
• Pushes for quick commitments.
• Suggests moving the conversation to another platform immediately.
• Sends suspicious links or asks for personal information.

Major Difference in Dating Between Austria and Thailand

In Thailand, dating can be more traditional and family-oriented. Respect for elders and family involvement is significant. Public displays of affection are less common and more subdued compared to Austria.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Austrian Women

Thai women may be more reserved initially but are very warm once they get to know you. They often value politeness and respect highly. Austrian women might be more direct and independent in their approach to dating.

Popular First Date Activities

• Enjoying street food at a night market.
• Visiting a temple or cultural landmark.
• Having coffee at a trendy café.
• Taking a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River.
• Exploring a local park or garden.

Red Light Districts

Some well-known red light districts in Thailand include Patpong in Bangkok, Walking Street in Pattaya, and Bangla Road in Phuket. Be cautious as these areas can be overwhelming and not suitable for everyone.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Prostitution is present on dating apps. Be wary of profiles that seem overly forward or suggestive. If someone quickly turns the conversation towards financial arrangements, it’s a red flag.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Language Exchange Meetups – Great for meeting educated women interested in learning languages.
2. Coffee Shops – Popular among young professionals.
3. University Campuses – Many students are open to meeting new people.
4. Shopping Malls – CentralWorld, Siam Paragon in Bangkok.
5. Night Markets – Chatuchak Weekend Market or Rot Fai Market.
6. Cultural Events – Festivals, art exhibitions, and concerts.
7. Fitness Centers – Gyms and yoga studios.
8. Cooking Classes – Learn Thai cuisine together.
9. Beach Resorts – Hua Hin, Krabi, or Koh Samui.
10. Volunteer Organizations – Join community service projects.

By following these guidelines, Austrian men can navigate the dating scene in Thailand with confidence and respect.

Practical Guide to Extending a Thai Tourist Visa or Visa Exemption for Austrian Passport Holders

Extending your stay in Thailand as an Austrian passport holder is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the extension procedure:

1. Gather Required Documents

Before heading to the immigration office, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your application.
• TM.7 Form: This is the application form for visa extension. You can download it online or obtain it at the immigration office.
• Passport-sized Photos: Two recent photos (4x6 cm).
• Photocopy of Passport Pages: Include the photo page, current visa page, and the latest entry stamp.
• Extension Fee: The fee for a tourist visa extension is typically 1,900 THB. Ensure you have the exact amount in cash.

2. Visit the Immigration Office

Locate the nearest immigration office. Major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya have immigration offices that handle visa extensions. 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 completed form along with the required documents to the immigration officer.
• Pay the extension fee (1,900 THB).

4. Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, you may need to wait for a short period while your extension is processed. In most cases, this takes a few hours, but it can vary depending on the office and the number of applicants.

5. Receive Your Extension

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a stamp in your passport indicating your new permitted stay date. Ensure all details are correct before leaving the immigration office.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Dress Appropriately: Wear modest clothing as a sign of respect.
• Be Polite and Patient: Immigration offices can be busy, so patience and politeness go a long way.
• Double-Check Documents: Ensure all photocopies and forms are correctly filled out to avoid delays.

Special Considerations

• Multiple Extensions: It’s generally possible to extend your stay more than once, but subsequent extensions might require additional documentation or justification.
• 90-Day Reporting: If you plan to stay in Thailand for an extended period, be aware of the 90-day reporting requirement for long-term stays.

By following this guide, Austrian passport holders can efficiently extend their stay in Thailand and enjoy more of what this beautiful country has to offer.