"Keperluan Visa Thailand untuk Warganegara Brunei."

Population and Size of Country

Thailand has a significantly larger population than Brunei Darussalam. As of the latest estimates, Thailand’s population stands at approximately 70 million people, whereas Brunei’s population is around 450,000. In terms of land area, Thailand is also much larger, covering about 513,120 square kilometers, compared to Brunei’s 5,765 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand is predominantly ethnically Thai, with the Thai people making up around 95% of the population. There are also minority groups such as Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. Brunei, on the other hand, has a more diverse ethnic composition. The majority ethnic group is Malay, comprising about 65% of the population, followed by Chinese at around 10%, and various indigenous groups making up the rest.

Religion

In Thailand, Buddhism is the dominant religion, practiced by about 95% of the population. There are also small communities of Muslims, Christians, and Hindus. Brunei is an Islamic state with Islam being the official religion and practiced by about 80% of the population. Other religions such as Christianity and Buddhism are also present but in smaller numbers.

GDP

Thailand has a more diversified economy compared to Brunei. Thailand’s GDP is significantly higher due to its larger population and diverse industries including manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. Brunei’s economy is heavily reliant on oil and gas exports, which contribute to the majority of its GDP. As a result, Brunei has a high per capita income but less economic diversification.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. The country faces challenges related to an increasing elderly population and declining birth rates. In contrast, Brunei has a younger population with a median age of about 32 years. This younger demographic profile is indicative of higher birth rates and potentially different social and economic challenges.

Men vs Women

In both countries, the gender ratio is relatively balanced, though slight differences exist. In Thailand, women slightly outnumber men. In Brunei, the gender ratio is nearly even, with a slight male majority due to the influx of male expatriate workers in the oil and gas sectors.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is driven by various sectors including tourism, agriculture (notably rice), automotive manufacturing, and electronics. Tourism is particularly significant, contributing a substantial portion to GDP and employment. In Brunei, the primary source of income is the oil and gas industry, which dominates the economy. The country also benefits from investments and sovereign wealth funds derived from its energy revenues.

Violent Crime

Thailand generally has a lower rate of violent crime compared to many Western countries. However, incidents can still occur, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid confrontations, especially in nightlife districts. It’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit or secluded areas after dark.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are relatively common in crowded areas, markets, and public transportation hubs. Always keep your belongings secure and be vigilant in busy places. Using anti-theft bags and keeping valuables out of sight can help minimize risks.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, often related to personal disputes or relationships, do occur but are typically less of a concern for tourists. These incidents are usually localized and not directed towards travelers. Nonetheless, it’s advisable to avoid getting involved in local disputes or altercations.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers

Thailand is generally considered safe for solo women travelers, with many women traveling alone without issues. Nevertheless, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and be cautious when interacting with strangers. Trust your instincts and seek help if you feel uncomfortable.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in well-populated and well-lit areas is generally safe in Thailand. However, some areas may pose higher risks, particularly in cities like Bangkok and Pattaya. Stick to main roads and avoid deserted streets. If possible, travel in groups or use reputable transportation services like registered taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are prevalent in Thailand. Common scams include inflated prices for tuk-tuk rides, gem scams, and fake tour operators. Be skeptical of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals that seem too good to be true. Always book tours and services through reputable companies and verify prices before agreeing to anything.

By staying informed and vigilant, travelers from Brunei Darussalam can enjoy a safe and pleasant trip to Thailand.

Travelers from Brunei Darussalam visiting Thailand will find several similarities in the culinary landscape, given the shared Southeast Asian heritage. Both cuisines emphasize fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and a balance of flavors—sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.

In Thailand, you can explore an array of dishes that might feel familiar yet distinct. Tom Yum Goong is a must-try; this spicy and sour shrimp soup is reminiscent of the tangy soups found in Bruneian cuisine. Similarly, Som Tum (green papaya salad) offers a refreshing mix of spicy, sour, and sweet flavors that will appeal to those who enjoy the complex taste profiles common in Brunei’s dishes.

For a taste of something hearty, Pad Thai is a popular stir-fried noodle dish that shares some commonalities with Bruneian noodle dishes like Mee Goreng. The use of peanuts, lime, and tamarind in Pad Thai creates a unique flavor that is both familiar and novel.

Seafood lovers should not miss Pla Pao (grilled fish), which is comparable to Brunei’s Ikan Bakar. The fish is typically coated in salt and grilled to perfection, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

For those who enjoy rice dishes, Khao Pad (fried rice) offers variations that can be customized with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, much like the Nasi Goreng found in Brunei. Additionally, Khao Niew Ma Muang (mango sticky rice) provides a delightful dessert option that balances sweetness with the rich texture of coconut milk—similar to some Bruneian desserts that use coconut as a key ingredient.

Lastly, street food culture is vibrant in both countries. In Thailand, you can sample everything from Satay (grilled meat skewers) to Kanom Krok (coconut pancakes), offering a delicious street-side experience akin to Brunei’s night markets.

Exploring these culinary delights will offer travelers from Brunei a sense of familiarity while also providing new and exciting flavors that highlight the rich gastronomic traditions of Thailand.

Cultural Differences and Making Friends

Travelers from Brunei Darussalam will find that Thai culture places a strong emphasis on respect, politeness, and maintaining harmonious social interactions. To make friends in Thailand, it is important to be courteous and humble. A traditional greeting, known as the “wai,” involves placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly. This gesture is a sign of respect and is commonly used when meeting someone for the first time.

Do’s and Don’ts

• Do: Show respect to elders and monks. When addressing someone older or of higher status, use the appropriate honorifics (e.g., “Khun” for Mr./Mrs./Ms.).
• Don’t: Touch someone’s head or ruffle their hair; the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture.
• Do: Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.
• Don’t: Point your feet at people or religious objects; feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body.

Habits to Leave Behind

• Public Displays of Affection: While holding hands is generally acceptable, more intimate gestures like kissing or hugging in public are frowned upon.
• Loudness: Speaking loudly or causing a scene in public is considered disrespectful. Thais generally speak in a soft and calm manner.

Deportment and Respect

• Touching: Avoid unnecessary physical contact, especially with the opposite gender. A simple wai or a smile can go a long way.
• Religious Places: Dress modestly when visiting temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering temple buildings.
• Public Presentation: Dress neatly and conservatively. Casual clothing is acceptable, but overly revealing outfits are not appropriate in most settings.

Behavior on Public Transport

• Respect for Monks: If a monk boards public transport, it is customary to offer them your seat.
• Quietness: Keep conversations at a low volume. Using earphones for music or videos is appreciated.
• Orderliness: Form orderly queues when waiting for buses or trains. Pushing and shoving are considered rude.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “face” refers to one’s reputation, dignity, and social standing. “Losing face” means experiencing embarrassment or shame in front of others, which can damage one’s social standing. To avoid causing someone to lose face:

• Avoid Public Criticism: If you need to correct or criticize someone, do so privately and gently.
• Praise Publicly: Complimenting someone in front of others can help them gain face.

Conversely, “gaining face” involves actions that enhance one’s reputation and respect within the community. Acts of kindness, generosity, and humility are highly valued and can help you gain face in Thai society.

By understanding and respecting these cultural nuances, travelers from Brunei Darussalam can have a more enriching and harmonious experience in Thailand.

Bringing Phone from Brunei Darussalam

Travellers from Brunei Darussalam can easily bring their phones to Thailand. Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports GSM networks, as Thailand uses GSM technology. Most modern smartphones are compatible.

Internet Availability

Thailand offers widespread internet availability. You can purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Major providers include AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove. They offer various data packages that cater to tourists.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are also widely used. Make sure to have these apps installed 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.
• Klook: For booking tours and activities.
• Eatigo: For restaurant reservations and discounts.

Currency

The currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, though credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.

ATM Use

ATMs are widely available, and most accept international cards. Be aware of the withdrawal fees, which can be around 200-250 THB per transaction. Inform your home bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the most reliable taxi app in Thailand. It offers various services including GrabCar, GrabTaxi, and GrabBike. You can pay via cash or credit card linked to the app.

Food Delivery

GrabFood and Foodpanda are the leading food delivery services. They offer a wide range of local and international cuisines. Both apps accept cash and online payments.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted, while American Express may not be accepted everywhere.

Shopping

Thailand is a shopping paradise with options ranging from street markets to high-end malls. Popular places include Chatuchak Weekend Market, MBK Center, Siam Paragon, and Terminal 21. Bargaining is common in markets but not in malls.

Trains

The BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are efficient ways to navigate Bangkok. They cover most tourist areas and are easy to use. Purchase a Rabbit Card for BTS or a stored-value card for MRT for convenience.

Local Buses

Local buses are an economical way to travel but can be confusing due to language barriers. Apps like ViaBus can help you navigate bus routes. Buses are color-coded based on routes and types; air-conditioned buses are generally more comfortable.

By following these guidelines, travellers from Brunei Darussalam can have a smooth and enjoyable trip to Thailand.

Acceptance of Men from Brunei Darussalam

Thai people are generally warm and welcoming towards foreigners, including men from Brunei Darussalam. You may find that being from Brunei can be an interesting talking point, as many Thais may not know much about the country. Your unique background can serve as a good icebreaker.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Brunei Darussalam

A light-hearted way to introduce your nationality is by saying, “I’m from Brunei, the tiny but mighty kingdom!” or “Have you ever met someone from Brunei? Now you have!”

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms are widely used and can help you connect with Thai women easily.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Hi there! I’m new to Thailand and would love some local tips. What’s the best place to eat around here?”
• “Sawadee krub! I’m from Brunei and looking forward to exploring Thailand. Any recommendations?”
• “Hello! What’s your favorite thing about living in Thailand?”

Teaching Thai Women About Bruneian Culture

Start with the basics: explain that Brunei is a small, oil-rich country on the island of Borneo. Share interesting facts like the Sultan’s palace being one of the largest in the world and how Bruneians celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Discuss traditional foods like ambuyat and explain cultural norms.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress modestly and neatly. In Thailand, dressing well is seen as a sign of respect. Ensure good personal hygiene by taking regular showers, using deodorant, and maintaining clean nails and hair.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• Inconsistent stories or details about their life.
• Avoiding video calls or face-to-face meetings.
• Asking for money or gifts early in the relationship.
• Overly affectionate too soon.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

Common scams include catfishing (using fake profiles), emotional manipulation to get money, and blackmailing with intimate photos. Always verify the person’s identity before getting too involved.

Major Difference in Dating Between Brunei Darussalam and Thailand

In Thailand, dating can be more casual and public displays of affection are generally more accepted than in Brunei. Thai culture is more open to dating multiple people at once before committing to a relationship.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Bruneian Women

Thai women are generally more open-minded due to Thailand’s more liberal social norms. They may also be more independent and career-focused compared to Bruneian women, who might adhere more closely to traditional roles.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a night market.
• Exploring a temple or historical site.
• Having dinner at a local restaurant.
• Going for a coffee at a trendy cafe.
• Taking a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River.

Red Light Districts

Bangkok’s red light districts include Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy. These areas are known for their nightlife and adult entertainment but are best avoided if you’re looking for a genuine relationship.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Be cautious as some profiles may be involved in sex work. Red flags include overly suggestive photos, immediate offers for “services,” and profiles that seem too good to be true.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Coffee Shops - Cafes like Starbucks or local favorites.
2. Universities - Attending events or lectures.
3. Language Exchange Meetups - Great for practicing Thai and meeting locals.
4. Shopping Malls - CentralWorld, Siam Paragon.
5. Gyms - Fitness centers like Fitness First.
6. Night Markets - Chatuchak Weekend Market.
7. Parks - Lumpini Park.
8. Cultural Events - Festivals like Songkran or Loy Krathong.
9. Cooking Classes - Learn Thai cuisine together.
10. Volunteer Organizations - Participate in community service activities.

By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the dating scene in Thailand while respecting cultural differences and making meaningful connections.

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

Extending your stay in Thailand as a Bruneian passport holder can be a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps. Here’s a practical guide to help you through the extension procedure for both a Thai tourist visa and a visa exemption.

Step-by-Step Guide to Extend Your Stay

1. Prepare Required Documents

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
• TM.7 Form: Download and complete the TM.7 application form, available at Thai Immigration Bureau’s website or at the immigration office.
• Passport Photos: Provide one recent passport-sized photo (4x6 cm).
• Photocopies: Make copies of your passport’s main page, current visa page, and entry stamp page.
• Proof of Address: Documentation showing your address in Thailand, such as a hotel booking or rental agreement.

2. Visit the Immigration Office

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

3. Submit Your Application

• Hand over your completed TM.7 form and supporting documents.
• Pay the extension fee (typically around 1,900 Thai Baht).
• An immigration officer will review your application, which might include a brief interview.

4. Receive Your Extension

• If approved, your passport will be stamped with the new extension date.
• Extensions are usually granted for 30 days.

Additional Tips

• Dress Appropriately: Dress modestly as immigration offices have dress codes.
• Language: While many officers speak English, knowing basic Thai phrases can be helpful.
• Plan Ahead: Start the extension process at least a week before your current visa or exemption expires to avoid any last-minute issues.

Special Considerations

• Overstay Penalties: Avoid overstaying as it incurs fines and potential bans from re-entering Thailand.
• Multiple Extensions: Generally, you can extend your stay once per entry. For longer stays, consider exiting and re-entering Thailand or applying for a different type of visa.

By following these steps and preparing adequately, you can ensure a smooth process in extending your stay in Thailand. Enjoy your extended time in the Land of Smiles!