Thailand Visa Requirements for Papua New Guinean Citizens.

Population

Thailand has a significantly larger population than Papua New Guinea. As of recent estimates, Thailand’s population is around 70 million, whereas Papua New Guinea’s population is approximately 9 million.

Size of Country

Thailand covers an area of about 513,120 square kilometers, making it more than twice the size of Papua New Guinea, which spans approximately 462,840 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand’s population is predominantly ethnic Thai, with significant minorities including Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. In contrast, Papua New Guinea is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world, with over 800 distinct ethnic groups and languages.

Religion

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand, practiced by around 95% of the population. In Papua New Guinea, Christianity is the predominant religion, with Roman Catholicism and various Protestant denominations being the most common.

GDP

Thailand has a much higher Gross Domestic Product (GDP) compared to Papua New Guinea. Thailand’s GDP is approximately $543 billion USD, while Papua New Guinea’s GDP is around $24 billion USD.

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. Papua New Guinea has a much younger population, with a median age of around 22 years, and a significant portion of the population under the age of 15.

Men vs Women

In both countries, the gender ratio is relatively balanced. However, Thailand has a slightly higher number of women compared to men, whereas Papua New Guinea has a slightly higher number of men compared to women.

Source of Popular Types of Income

In Thailand, the economy is diversified with major income sources including manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. Popular exports include electronics, automobiles, and textiles. In Papua New Guinea, the economy is heavily reliant on natural resources such as mining (gold and copper), oil and gas extraction, and agriculture (coffee, cocoa, and palm oil).

Violent Crime
Thailand generally experiences lower levels of violent crime compared to Papua New Guinea. While violent crime does occur, it is relatively rare and tends to be more localized to certain areas. Tourists are usually not the targets of such crimes, but it is still wise to avoid confrontations and stay aware of your surroundings.

Casual Crime
Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are more common in tourist-heavy areas like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. Travelers should be vigilant, especially in crowded places and on public transport. Keeping valuables secured and being cautious with personal belongings can help mitigate these risks.

Crimes of Passion
Crimes of passion, often linked to personal relationships, do occur but are usually confined to domestic disputes and less likely to affect tourists. However, it’s essential to exercise caution in personal relationships and avoid conflicts that could escalate.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers
Thailand is generally considered safe for solo women travelers. Women traveling alone should still take usual precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, not accepting drinks from strangers, and staying in reputable accommodations. Using ride-hailing apps like Grab can also provide an added layer of safety when traveling around the city.

Walking Around at Night
Walking around at night in Thailand can be relatively safe in well-populated and well-lit areas, especially in major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. However, it is advisable to avoid poorly lit or secluded areas and to travel in groups when possible. Always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Scamming
Scams targeting tourists are unfortunately common in Thailand. These can include taxi drivers overcharging, gem scams, and fake tour operators. It’s advisable to use reputable services, agree on prices 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.

Overall, while Thailand is generally safe for travelers, being aware of the potential risks and taking appropriate precautions can help ensure a pleasant and trouble-free visit.

Papua New Guinean travelers will find some delightful similarities between their local cuisine and Thai food, particularly in the use of fresh ingredients, tropical fruits, and a variety of seafood. Both cuisines emphasize bold flavors, though Thai food often incorporates a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements.

Similarities in Ingredients:

• Coconut Milk: Just as in Papua New Guinea, where coconut milk is a staple in many dishes, Thai cuisine also heavily features coconut milk in curries and desserts.
• Seafood: Both countries have a rich tradition of seafood dishes. Thai cuisine offers a wide array of seafood options like grilled fish, prawns, and squid, often seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices.
• Rice: Rice is a fundamental part of meals in both cultures. In Thailand, jasmine rice is commonly served with most dishes, while sticky rice is popular in the northern and northeastern regions.

Types of Food to Try:

• Tom Yum Goong: A hot and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and crushed chili peppers. The flavors are vibrant and will resonate with those familiar with the bold tastes of Papua New Guinean soups.
• Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan): This curry features coconut milk, green curry paste, bamboo shoots, Thai eggplant, and basil. It’s slightly sweet and very aromatic.
• Som Tum (Papaya Salad): A spicy salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and sometimes dried shrimp. The mix of flavors—spicy, salty, sweet, and sour—will be familiar to those who enjoy the complex tastes of PNG salads.
• Pad Thai: Thailand’s iconic stir-fried noodle dish with tofu or shrimp, eggs, bean sprouts, peanuts, and lime. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
• Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang): A popular dessert made with sticky rice cooked in sweetened coconut milk and served with ripe mango slices. The use of coconut milk and tropical fruit will be familiar and comforting.

These dishes not only highlight the commonalities in the culinary traditions but also offer a unique experience that showcases Thailand’s rich food culture.

Cultural Differences and Making Friends

Travelers from Papua New Guinea will find that Thai culture places a high value on politeness, respect, and social harmony. When making friends, it’s important to be courteous and humble. Thais often use the “wai,” a traditional greeting involving a slight bow with hands pressed together in a prayer-like fashion. This is a sign of respect and should be reciprocated, especially when greeting elders or those in positions of authority.

What to Do

• Respect Elders: Always show respect to older people. Address them with polite language and offer your seat on public transport.
• Dress Modestly: When visiting temples or religious sites, dress conservatively. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Use Soft Tones: Speak softly and avoid loud conversations, as Thais appreciate calm and composed behavior.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Confrontation: Public disputes or raising your voice can cause loss of face for both parties involved. It’s better to remain calm and composed.
• Do Not Touch the Head: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture, so avoid touching anyone’s head, even children.
• Feet Etiquette: Feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Do not point your feet at people or religious objects, and avoid stepping over someone seated on the floor.

Habits Not to Bring from Papua New Guinea

• Casual Touching: Unlike in Papua New Guinea, where people might be more tactile, in Thailand, physical contact between strangers or acquaintances is less common. Avoid hugging or touching when greeting someone.
• Directness: While direct communication might be appreciated in Papua New Guinea, Thais often communicate indirectly to maintain harmony. Be mindful of this and try to pick up on non-verbal cues.

Deportment and Respect

• Public Presentation: Dress neatly and appropriately. Thais place importance on appearance, so looking well-groomed is a sign of respect.
• Behavior on Public Transport: Be quiet and respectful. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Offer your seat to monks, elderly people, and pregnant women.

Religious Places

• Temple Etiquette: Remove your shoes before entering temples. Show respect by dressing appropriately and not taking photos where prohibited.
• Monk Interaction: Women should not touch monks or hand items directly to them. Use a male intermediary if necessary.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “face” refers to one’s reputation, dignity, and social standing. Losing face means experiencing public embarrassment or shame, which can happen through direct confrontation, criticism, or failure. Gaining face involves actions that enhance one’s reputation, such as showing respect, humility, and generosity.

Understanding these cultural nuances will help travelers from Papua New Guinea navigate social interactions smoothly and enjoy their time in Thailand.

Bringing Phone from Papua New Guinea

Ensure your phone is unlocked before leaving Papua New Guinea so it can accept a Thai SIM card. Most modern smartphones should work in Thailand, but it’s a good idea to check if your phone supports GSM 900/1800 MHz bands, which are commonly used in Thailand.

Internet Availability

Thailand has excellent internet coverage, especially in urban areas. You can purchase a local SIM card with a data package at the airport or from mobile service providers like AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove. Free Wi-Fi is also widely available in hotels, cafes, and shopping malls.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand, followed by WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. Download LINE before you arrive to stay connected with locals and businesses.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

1. Google Maps: Essential for navigation.
2. LINE: For messaging and communication.
3. Grab: For taxi and food delivery services.
4. Airbnb and Agoda: For accommodation bookings.
5. XE Currency: For real-time currency conversion.

Currency

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

ATM Use

ATMs are plentiful, but most charge a fee of around 200 THB per transaction for foreign cards. Notify your bank before traveling to avoid any issues with card usage abroad.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the most reliable taxi app in Thailand. It offers various services including car rides, motorbike taxis, and even food delivery.

Food Delivery

Apart from Grab, Foodpanda is another popular food delivery app. Both apps offer a wide range of restaurant options and are user-friendly.

Credit Cards

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

Shopping

Thailand offers a mix of high-end malls like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld, as well as bustling markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market and local night markets. Bargaining is common in markets but not in malls.

Trains

The BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are efficient ways to navigate Bangkok. They are clean, reliable, and cover most tourist attractions. You can purchase single-journey tickets or stored value cards like the Rabbit Card for convenience.

Local Buses

Local buses are an economical way to travel but can be challenging for non-Thai speakers due to limited English signage. Apps like ViaBus can help you navigate the bus system by providing real-time tracking and route information.

By considering these practical travel tips, your journey from Papua New Guinea to Thailand can be smooth and enjoyable.

Acceptance of Men from Papua New Guinea

Thai people are generally welcoming and open-minded towards foreigners, including men from Papua New Guinea. However, be prepared for some curiosity and questions about your background as Papua New Guinea is not a well-known country in Thailand. Show respect for Thai culture and traditions to make a good impression.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Papua New Guinea

Humor can be an excellent icebreaker. You might say something like, “I’m from Papua New Guinea, where our birds of paradise are as colorful as our smiles!” or “I’m from a place where we have over 800 languages, so I promise to never run out of things to say!”

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have a large user base and are widely accepted for both casual and serious dating.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Hi! I’m [Your Name] from Papua New Guinea. Ever met someone from there before?”
• “Sawadee krap! I’m new here and would love to learn more about Thai culture. Can you be my guide?”
• “Hello! I’m fascinated by Thailand. What’s one thing you think every visitor should experience?”

Teaching Thai Women About Papua New Guinean Culture

Share interesting facts about your culture, such as the diversity of languages, traditional dances like the Hiri Moale, or the significance of the Kokoda Track. Use visuals or short videos to make your explanations more engaging.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and appropriately for the occasion. In Thailand, casual but clean attire is generally acceptable. Personal hygiene is crucial; ensure you are well-groomed and fresh-smelling. This shows respect for yourself and others.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• Excessive demands for money or gifts early in the relationship.
• Reluctance to meet in person after prolonged online chatting.
• Inconsistent stories or evasiveness about personal details.
• Overly rapid declarations of love or commitment.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

• Fake profiles asking for financial assistance.
• Requests for money to visit you or to help with a family emergency.
• Profiles that seem too good to be true with overly polished photos and vague details.

Major Difference in Dating Between Papua New Guinea and Thailand

Thai dating culture often involves a longer period of getting to know each other before becoming exclusive. Family approval is also significant in Thailand, and public displays of affection are generally more reserved compared to Western norms.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Papua New Guinean Women

Thai women may appear more reserved initially but are generally warm and friendly once they get to know you. They often place a high value on family ties and social harmony. In contrast, Papua New Guinean women might be more direct in their communication and display a different set of cultural norms influenced by their diverse traditions.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a local market or night bazaar.
• Exploring cultural sites like temples or museums.
• Enjoying a meal at a Thai restaurant.
• Taking a stroll in a park or by the river.
• Attending a local festival or event.

Red Light Districts

Areas like Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are known red-light districts. These areas are best avoided if you’re looking for a genuine relationship, as they cater primarily to the sex tourism industry.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Some profiles on dating apps may be associated with prostitution. Be cautious if someone quickly steers conversations towards financial transactions or offers explicit services in exchange for money.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. University Campuses - Engage in language exchange programs.
2. Coffee Shops - Popular spots for locals to relax and socialize.
3. Shopping Malls - CentralWorld, Siam Paragon, and Terminal 21.
4. Fitness Centers - Gyms and yoga studios.
5. Cultural Events - Festivals, art exhibitions, and music concerts.
6. Cooking Classes - Learn Thai cuisine together.
7. Community Centers - Volunteer activities.
8. Parks - Lumphini Park in Bangkok is a popular choice.
9. Language Schools - Enroll in Thai language classes.
10. Social Clubs - Join expatriate clubs or local hobby groups.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the dating scene in Thailand more effectively and respectfully while sharing your unique cultural background with potential partners.

Practical Guide to Extending a Thai Tourist Visa or Visa Exemption for Papua New Guinean Passport Holders

If you’re a Papua New Guinean passport holder looking to extend your stay in Thailand, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of extending your Thai tourist visa or visa exemption.

Step 1: Understand Your Extension Options

1. Tourist Visa Extension: If you entered Thailand on a tourist visa, you can extend it for an additional 30 days.
2. Visa Exemption Extension: If you entered Thailand under the visa exemption scheme, you can also extend your stay by 30 days.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

1. Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least another six months and has blank pages.
2. TM.6 Departure Card: This is the card you filled out upon arrival in Thailand.
3. TM.7 Application Form: This form is available at immigration offices or can be downloaded online.
4. Passport-sized Photo: One recent photo (4x6 cm).
5. Extension Fee: The fee is typically 1,900 THB (Thai Baht), payable in cash.

Step 3: Locate the Nearest Immigration Office

Find the nearest Thai Immigration Office. Popular offices include those in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya. It’s advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.

Step 4: Complete the TM.7 Application Form

Fill out the TM.7 application form with accurate details. Attach your passport-sized photo to the form.

Step 5: Visit the Immigration Office

1. Submit Documents: Hand over your completed TM.7 form, passport, TM.6 departure card, and the extension fee to the immigration officer.
2. Interview: You may be asked a few questions about your stay in Thailand.
3. Wait for Processing: Processing times can vary, but it typically takes a few hours.

Step 6: Receive Your Extension

Once your extension is approved, your passport will be stamped with the new departure date, granting you an additional 30 days in Thailand.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Dress Appropriately: Wear respectful clothing as a sign of respect.
• Bring Extra Cash: Have extra money on hand in case of unexpected expenses.
• Double-Check Documents: Ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submission.
• Plan Ahead: Start the extension process at least a few days before your current stay expires to avoid overstay fines.

By following these steps, Papua New Guinean passport holders can efficiently extend their stay in Thailand, allowing more time to explore and enjoy the country’s rich culture and beautiful landscapes.