"Таиланд виза талаптары Кыргыз жарандары үчүн."

Population and Size of Country

Thailand has a significantly larger population compared to Kyrgyzstan. As of the latest estimates, Thailand’s population is over 69 million, while Kyrgyzstan’s population is around 6.5 million. In terms of land area, Thailand is approximately 513,120 square kilometers, making it more than twice the size of Kyrgyzstan, which covers about 199,951 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand is predominantly ethnically Thai, making up about 95% of the population, with small minorities of Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. Kyrgyzstan, on the other hand, is more ethnically diverse. The Kyrgyz ethnic group constitutes about 73% of the population, followed by significant minorities of Uzbeks (14%), Russians (6%), and smaller groups including Dungans, Uyghurs, and Tajiks.

Religion

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand, practiced by around 94% of the population, with Islam being the second largest religion. In contrast, Kyrgyzstan is predominantly Muslim, with about 90% of the population adhering to Islam, mainly Sunni. There are also small communities of Russian Orthodox Christians and other religious groups.

GDP

Thailand has a much larger economy compared to Kyrgyzstan. Thailand’s GDP is over $500 billion USD, making it one of the largest economies in Southeast Asia. Kyrgyzstan’s GDP is significantly smaller, around $8 billion USD. This reflects the broader economic activities and industrial base in Thailand compared to the more agrarian and less industrialized economy of Kyrgyzstan.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. The proportion of people aged 65 and older is increasing, reflecting lower birth rates and higher life expectancy. Kyrgyzstan has a younger population with a median age of around 26 years, and a larger proportion of its population is under 15 years old, indicating higher birth rates.

Men vs Women

In both countries, the gender ratio is relatively balanced. In Thailand, women slightly outnumber men, with approximately 51% female and 49% male. In Kyrgyzstan, the ratio is almost equal but slightly in favor of women as well.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is diverse with major income sources including tourism, manufacturing (especially electronics and automotive), agriculture (notably rice and rubber), and services. Tourism is particularly significant, contributing substantially to GDP and employment.

Kyrgyzstan’s economy relies heavily on agriculture (especially livestock and crops like cotton and tobacco), remittances from Kyrgyz citizens working abroad (primarily in Russia), and mining (notably gold). The country also has a growing tourism sector focused on its natural landscapes and cultural heritage.

Violent Crime

Thailand generally has a lower rate of violent crime compared to many other countries, including Kyrgyzstan. Incidents of violent crime against tourists are relatively rare. However, it’s always wise to exercise caution, especially in crowded places and during late hours. Avoid confrontations and be mindful of your surroundings.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft can occur, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. Always keep your belongings secure and be vigilant in crowded spots. Using anti-theft bags and not displaying valuables can help minimize risk.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, often involving jealousy or domestic disputes, are not commonly directed at tourists. However, they do occur within local communities. As a visitor, it’s advisable to avoid getting involved in local disputes or personal affairs.

Safety for Solo Women Travellers

Thailand is generally considered safe for solo women travelers. Nonetheless, it’s important to take standard precautions. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and always let someone know your itinerary.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in Thailand is relatively safe in well-lit and populated areas. However, it’s best to avoid poorly lit streets and alleys, particularly if you are alone. Stick to busy areas and consider using ride-hailing services like Grab for late-night transportation.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are common in Thailand. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited advice or deals that seem too good to be true. Common scams include gem scams, tuk-tuk overcharging, and fake tour operators. Always use reputable services and verify credentials when booking tours or making purchases.

By being aware of these differences and taking appropriate precautions, travelers from Kyrgyzstan can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Thailand.

Thailand and Kyrgyzstan, while geographically distant, share some culinary similarities that might make Kyrgyz travelers feel a bit more at home. Both cuisines emphasize the use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, although the specific ingredients and dishes can differ.

In Thailand, rice is a staple just as it is in Kyrgyzstan. You’ll find a variety of rice dishes, from steamed jasmine rice to sticky rice, often served with a range of flavorful accompaniments. Noodles are also prevalent, similar to the noodle dishes found in Kyrgyz cuisine. Thai noodle dishes like Pad Thai or Pad See Ew offer a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and savory flavors that can be somewhat reminiscent of Kyrgyz laghman, though with different spices and ingredients.

Thai cuisine relies heavily on fresh herbs and spices, much like Kyrgyz food. Common ingredients include lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and Thai basil. These ingredients create aromatic and vibrant dishes that are central to Thai cooking. Kyrgyz travelers might find these flavors intriguing and somewhat familiar due to the use of fresh herbs in their own cuisine.

For those looking to explore Thai food, here are some must-try dishes:

• Tom Yum Goong: A hot and sour shrimp soup that combines lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and crushed chili peppers. The bold flavors might remind travelers of the hearty soups found in Kyrgyzstan.

• Som Tum: A green papaya salad that is both spicy and tangy. This dish is refreshing and can be compared to the various fresh salads enjoyed in Kyrgyzstan.

• Massaman Curry: This rich and mildly spicy curry has influences from Persian cuisine and might be reminiscent of some of the meat stews found in Kyrgyzstan. It often includes potatoes, peanuts, and tender chunks of meat.

• Khao Pad: Thai fried rice which can be customized with different proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu. It’s similar to the plov (pilaf) enjoyed in Kyrgyzstan but with distinct Thai flavors.

• Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat made from sticky rice, coconut milk, and ripe mangoes is a must-try. While it’s different from traditional Kyrgyz desserts, the use of rice as a base ingredient provides a familiar texture.

Both Thai and Kyrgyz cuisines celebrate communal eating and the sharing of food among friends and family. This cultural similarity can make dining in Thailand a warm and enjoyable experience for Kyrgyz travelers.

Making Friends

In Thailand, friendships are often built on mutual respect and politeness. Thais appreciate a warm smile and friendly demeanor. It’s common to greet people with a “wai,” a gesture where you place your palms together in a prayer-like position and bow slightly. This is especially important when meeting elders or people of higher status. While making friends, it’s important to be humble and avoid boasting about personal achievements.

What to Do

• Respect Elders: Always show respect to older people. Use polite language and offer your seat to them in public transport.
• 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.
• Be Polite: Use polite particles like “krub” for men and “ka” for women at the end of sentences to show respect.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Thais are conservative regarding public displays of affection. Holding hands is generally acceptable, but anything more intimate can be frowned upon.
• Don’t Touch the Head: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid touching anyone’s head, even children.
• Avoid Pointing Feet: Feet are considered the dirtiest part of the body. Don’t point your feet at people or religious objects, and avoid showing the soles of your feet.
• No Loud Behavior: Thais value calmness and composure. Avoid raising your voice or causing a scene in public.

Habits Not to Bring from Kyrgyzstan to Thailand

• Direct Confrontation: Thais prefer to avoid conflict and direct confrontation. If there’s an issue, it’s better to discuss it calmly and privately.
• Aggressive Bargaining: While bargaining is common in markets, do so politely and with a smile. Aggressive bargaining can be seen as disrespectful.

Deportment and Respect

• Public Presentation: Dress neatly and appropriately for the occasion. Casual wear is fine for most places, but avoid overly revealing clothing.
• Behavior on Public Transport: Be quiet and respectful. Offer your seat to monks, elderly, pregnant women, and children. Keep conversations at a low volume.

Touching

Physical contact is generally less common in Thailand compared to Kyrgyzstan. Handshakes are not as common as the “wai.” Avoid touching people unnecessarily, especially members of the opposite sex.

Religious Places

When visiting religious sites, always show utmost respect. Speak softly, dress conservatively, and follow any specific rules posted at the entrance. Never climb on statues or religious artifacts for photos.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, maintaining “face” (dignity and respect) is crucial. Losing face means being embarrassed or humiliated in public, which can damage personal and professional relationships. To avoid causing someone to lose face:

• Avoid Criticism: Don’t criticize or reprimand someone in public.
• Be Indirect: If you need to address an issue, do so gently and indirectly.
• Praise Publicly: Complimenting someone in front of others can help them gain face.

Gaining face involves actions that bring honor and respect to oneself or others, such as showing kindness, being generous, or achieving success without boasting.

By understanding these cultural nuances, travelers from Kyrgyzstan can enjoy a respectful and enriching experience in Thailand.

Bringing Phone from Kyrgyzstan: Travelers from Kyrgyzstan can bring their smartphones to Thailand without any issues. Ensure your phone is unlocked for international use, so you can use a local SIM card for better connectivity and cost savings.

Internet Availability: Internet access is widely available throughout Thailand, with free Wi-Fi offered in many hotels, cafes, and public spaces. For constant connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan from providers like AIS, DTAC, or TrueMove H at the airport or convenience stores.

Dominant Messaging Apps: The most popular messaging apps in Thailand are LINE and Facebook Messenger. Download these apps before your trip to stay connected with locals and fellow travelers.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival:

• Google Maps: For navigation.
• Grab: For ride-hailing and food delivery.
• LINE: For messaging and communication.
• Airbnb or Agoda: For accommodation bookings.
• Thai Language Apps: To help with basic communication.

Currency: The currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s advisable to exchange some money before arrival for initial expenses. Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and authorized exchange counters.

ATM Use: ATMs are widely available in Thailand. Most ATMs accept international cards but charge a fee per transaction (typically 200-250 THB). Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

Taxi Apps: Grab is the most reliable taxi app in Thailand, offering services similar to Uber. It’s convenient for booking rides around cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

Food Delivery: Apart from GrabFood, other popular food delivery apps include Foodpanda and Line Man. These apps offer a wide variety of local and international cuisine delivered straight to your accommodation.

Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls. However, it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors who may not accept cards.

Shopping: Thailand offers diverse shopping experiences from luxury malls like Siam Paragon in Bangkok to bustling markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market. For souvenirs and local products, explore night markets such as Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

Trains: Thailand’s train network is extensive and affordable. The State Railway of Thailand operates regular services connecting major cities. For a scenic experience, consider taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Local Buses: Local buses are an economical way to travel within cities. In Bangkok, the BMTA operates a comprehensive bus network. However, routes and schedules can be confusing for newcomers, so apps like ViaBus can help navigate the system.

Acceptance of Men from Kyrgyzstan

Thai people are generally welcoming and curious about foreigners, including men from Kyrgyzstan. Your unique background can be an interesting conversation starter. Just be respectful and open, and you’ll find that many Thai women are interested in learning about different cultures.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Kyrgyzstan

Humor can break the ice. You might say something like, “I come from a country where mountains are taller than buildings!” or “In Kyrgyzstan, we ride horses more often than cars!” These light-hearted comments can make you memorable and spark curiosity.

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Badoo, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have a large user base and are commonly used for both casual and serious relationships.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Sawadee krap! I’m [Your Name] from Kyrgyzstan. Have you ever met someone from my country?”
• “Hi! Your profile caught my eye. How’s your day going?”
• “Hello! I’m new in Thailand. Could you recommend some must-visit places?”

Teaching Thai Women About Kirghiz Culture

Share interesting facts about your culture, such as traditional food like Beshbarmak, the significance of yurts, or the epic of Manas. You can also talk about the beauty of Issyk-Kul Lake and your country’s rich history.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress smartly but comfortably. Casual wear is acceptable, but ensure it’s clean and neat. Personal hygiene is crucial; always be well-groomed and fresh-smelling. Thai people appreciate good manners and cleanliness.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• If she asks for money or expensive gifts early on.
• If she avoids meeting in person after chatting for a long time.
• If her profile has very few photos or seems too good to be true.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

Common scams include “love scams” where someone professes love quickly and asks for money, or profiles that lead you to fake websites to extract personal information. Always be cautious and verify the person’s identity before getting too involved.

Major Difference in Dating Between Kyrgyzstan and Thailand

In Thailand, dating can be more relaxed and casual compared to the more traditional approach in Kyrgyzstan. Public displays of affection are more common in Thailand, whereas they might be less accepted in Kyrgyzstan.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Kirghiz Women

Thai women may be more open to casual dating and public displays of affection. They often value politeness, respect, and a good sense of humor. Kirghiz women might prioritize family approval and traditional values more strongly.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a local market or night bazaar.
• Enjoying street food together.
• Going to a temple or cultural site.
• Taking a walk in a park or by the river.
• Attending a live music event or movie.

Red Light Districts

Bangkok’s Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy are well-known red-light districts. Pattaya also has Walking Street. Be cautious if you visit these areas as they can be overwhelming and are not ideal for genuine relationship-building.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Be aware that some profiles on dating apps may be linked to prostitution. Signs include suggestive photos, overly forward messages, or immediate offers to meet at hotels. Always proceed with caution.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Cafes: Popular spots like Starbucks or local coffee shops.
2. Universities: Campus events or libraries.
3. Shopping Malls: CentralWorld, Siam Paragon.
4. Parks: Lumphini Park in Bangkok.
5. Language Exchange Meetups: Great for cultural exchange.
6. Night Markets: Chatuchak Weekend Market.
7. Temples: Wat Arun or Wat Phra Kaew.
8. Gyms and Fitness Centers: HealthLand or local gyms.
9. Cooking Classes: Learn Thai cuisine together.
10. Volunteer Events: Community service activities.

Approach each situation with respect and genuine interest in getting to know the person beyond superficial aspects. Enjoy your time in Thailand and embrace the cultural exchange!

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

If you are a Kyrgyz passport holder currently in Thailand on a tourist visa or visa exemption, you may find it necessary to extend your stay. This guide will walk you through the process of extending your visa or visa exemption.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

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

1. Passport: Your original passport with at least 6 months validity and a copy of the photo page.
2. TM.7 Form: Completed application form for visa extension. This form can be downloaded online or obtained at the immigration office.
3. Passport-sized Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos (4x6 cm).
4. Proof of Accommodation: Copy of your hotel booking, rental agreement, or a letter from a host.
5. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statement or any document showing sufficient funds to support your stay.
6. Visa Fee: The extension fee is typically around 1,900 THB (Thai Baht), payable in cash.

Step 2: Visit the Immigration Office

Locate the nearest immigration office. Major offices are found in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya. It’s advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

1. Queue Ticket: Upon arrival, take a queue ticket and wait for your number to be called.
2. Document Submission: When your number is called, submit your documents to the immigration officer.
3. Interview: Be prepared to answer any questions regarding your stay and future plans in Thailand.

Step 4: Pay the Fee

Once your documents are reviewed, you will be asked to pay the extension fee of 1,900 THB.

Step 5: Receive Your Extension

After processing, which may take a few hours, you will receive your passport back with the visa extension stamp. The extension period granted is typically 30 days.

Important Tips:

• Dress Appropriately: Wear modest clothing as a sign of respect.
• Language Barrier: While many officers speak English, having a Thai-speaking friend or guide can be helpful.
• Plan Ahead: Avoid last-minute extensions; visit the immigration office at least a week before your current visa expires.
• Re-entry Permit: If you plan to leave Thailand and return during your extended stay, apply for a re-entry permit to avoid invalidating your extension.

By following these steps, Kyrgyz passport holders can successfully extend their tourist visa or visa exemption in Thailand and continue enjoying their stay in this beautiful country.