Exigences pour le visa thaïlandais pour les citoyens sénégalais.

Population and Size of Country

Thailand has a population of approximately 70 million people, whereas Senegal’s population is around 17 million. Thailand covers an area of about 513,120 square kilometers, making it significantly larger than Senegal, which spans approximately 196,722 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand is predominantly ethnically Thai, with the majority of the population identifying as such. Other ethnic groups include the Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. In contrast, Senegal has a more diverse ethnic composition, with the Wolof being the largest group, followed by the Fula, Serer, Jola, and Mandinka, among others.

Religion

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand, practiced by around 95% of the population. Islam is the second most practiced religion, particularly in the southern regions. Senegal, on the other hand, is predominantly Muslim, with about 95% of its population adhering to Islam. Christianity and indigenous religions are practiced by smaller segments of the population.

GDP

Thailand has a higher GDP compared to Senegal. As of recent estimates, Thailand’s GDP stands at around $543 billion USD, whereas Senegal’s GDP is approximately $24 billion USD. This significant difference reflects Thailand’s more diversified and industrialized economy.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. The country is experiencing a demographic shift towards an older age bracket due to lower birth rates and higher life expectancy. In contrast, Senegal has a much younger population, with a median age of around 19 years. The majority of Senegal’s population falls within the youth and young adult age brackets.

Men vs Women

In Thailand, the gender ratio is relatively balanced but slightly skewed towards women, particularly in older age groups due to higher male mortality rates. Senegal also has a relatively balanced gender ratio, but cultural and economic factors often influence the roles and status of men and women differently in both countries.

Source of Popular Types of Income

In Thailand, the economy is driven by manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. Key industries include electronics, automotive, textiles, and food processing. Tourism is a significant source of income due to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

In Senegal, agriculture is a primary source of income for many people, with key crops including peanuts, millet, and sorghum. Fishing is also an important industry. Additionally, remittances from Senegalese living abroad contribute significantly to the national economy. The country is also working on developing its mining and oil sectors to diversify income sources.

Violent Crime

Thailand is generally considered safer than many other countries when it comes to violent crime. Incidents such as armed robbery, assault, and murder are relatively rare, especially in tourist areas. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas, particularly at night.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur, especially in crowded places like markets, tourist attractions, and public transportation. Travelers should keep their belongings secure and be mindful of their surroundings.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, including domestic disputes that escalate to violence, are not uncommon in Thailand. These incidents typically involve individuals who know each other and are less likely to affect tourists. Nonetheless, it’s best to avoid confrontations or heated arguments with locals.

Safety for Solo Women Travellers

Thailand is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, it is recommended that women take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone late at night, staying in well-reviewed accommodations, and being cautious with new acquaintances. Public transportation is generally safe, but it’s advisable to sit near other women or families if traveling alone.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in busy, well-lit areas such as popular tourist spots is generally safe. However, caution should be exercised in less crowded or poorly lit areas. It’s advisable to use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps if you need to travel late at night.

Scamming

Tourist scams are relatively common in Thailand. These can include overcharging by taxi drivers, gem scams, and fake tour operators. Always agree on a fare before getting into a taxi, buy tickets from official sources, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Researching common scams before your trip can help you avoid falling victim.

By keeping these points in mind and exercising general caution, travelers from Senegal can enjoy a safe and pleasant visit to Thailand.

Senegalese travelers to Thailand will find intriguing similarities in the culinary traditions of both countries, particularly in the use of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Both cuisines emphasize the importance of rice and seafood, which serve as staples in many dishes. In Senegal, rice is often paired with fish or meat in dishes like Thieboudienne, while in Thailand, rice is the foundation for meals such as Pad Kra Pao and Khao Pad.

Thai food, like Senegalese cuisine, frequently features a balance of flavors—sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. For example, the Senegalese love for spicy dishes can be satisfied by trying Thai classics such as Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup) or Som Tum (spicy green papaya salad). Both cuisines also make use of peanuts: in Senegalese Mafé (peanut stew) and Thai dishes like Pad Thai, which often includes a garnish of crushed peanuts.

Travelers from Senegal might also appreciate the use of fresh herbs and vegetables in Thai cooking. Just as Senegalese dishes often incorporate fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers, Thai cuisine makes extensive use of ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.

For breakfast or snacks, Senegalese travelers might enjoy Roti, a type of flatbread that is somewhat similar to the Senegalese Lakh. Additionally, they can savor various Thai street foods like skewered meats (Moo Ping), which resemble the popular Senegalese brochettes.

In desserts, both cultures enjoy sweet treats that often involve coconut. Senegalese travelers should try Thai desserts such as Mango Sticky Rice or Khanom Krok (coconut-rice pancakes), which may remind them of their own coconut-based sweets.

Overall, while exploring Thailand’s culinary landscape, Senegalese travelers will find a delightful array of familiar yet uniquely different flavors that reflect both cultural diversity and culinary creativity.

Travelers from Senegal visiting Thailand will encounter a rich tapestry of cultural nuances and social etiquettes. Understanding these can greatly enhance your experience and help in making friends.

Making Friends

Thais are generally warm and hospitable, but they may initially seem reserved. A friendly smile goes a long way. When greeting, use the traditional “wai” gesture – palms pressed together in a prayer-like position with a slight bow. Avoid overly direct questions upon first meeting; instead, engage in light conversation about general topics like food, weather, or travel experiences.

What to Do

• Respect Elders: Always show respect to older people. Offer your seat on public transport and greet them first.
• Dress Modestly: Especially in temples and rural areas. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Learn Basic Thai Phrases: Even a few words like “hello” (sawasdee) and “thank you” (khob khun) can break the ice.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Holding hands is generally acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public are frowned upon.
• Do Not Touch the Head: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid touching anyone’s head, including children.
• Do Not Point Your Feet: Feet are considered the lowest part of the body. Avoid pointing them at people or religious objects.

Habits Not to Bring from Senegal to Thailand

• Direct Confrontation: Thais avoid direct confrontation and value maintaining harmony. Heated arguments or loud complaints are seen as losing face.
• Overt Gestures: While Senegalese may use expressive gestures, Thais prefer more subdued body language.
• Left Hand Use: The left hand is considered unclean. Use your right hand for giving or receiving items.

Deportment and Respect

• Public Transport Etiquette: Keep noise levels low, offer seats to monks and elders, and avoid eating.
• Religious Places: Remove shoes before entering temples, dress modestly, and avoid taking photos where prohibited.
• Public Presentation: Maintain a calm and composed demeanor. Loud talking or boisterous behavior can be seen as disrespectful.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “face” refers to one’s reputation and social standing. Losing face involves embarrassment or shame, often caused by public criticism or confrontation. Gaining face involves actions that bring honor or respect, such as showing humility, being polite, and offering compliments. Always strive to help others maintain face by being considerate and avoiding actions that could cause embarrassment.

Bringing Phone from Senegal

Ensure your phone is unlocked for international use. Thai SIM cards are widely available at the airport, convenience stores, and mobile shops. Major providers include AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove.

Internet Availability

Thailand has extensive 4G coverage, and 5G is available in major cities. Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and shopping malls. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better connectivity.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand, followed by Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. Download LINE before arrival for seamless communication.

Must-Download Apps

• LINE: For messaging.
• Google Maps: For navigation.
• Grab: For taxis and food delivery.
• Klook: For booking tours and activities.
• Bangkok MRT: For metro services in Bangkok.

Currency

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s advisable to exchange some money before arrival or at the airport. Currency exchange booths and ATMs are widely available.

ATM Use

ATMs are plentiful, especially in urban areas. Most accept international cards but may charge a withdrawal fee. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the most reliable taxi app in Thailand. It’s similar to Uber and offers various services including car, bike, and tuk-tuk rides.

Food Delivery

Food delivery apps are widely used. GrabFood and Foodpanda are the most popular options. They offer a wide range of local and international cuisine.

Credit Cards

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

Shopping

Thailand offers a variety of shopping experiences from luxury malls like Siam Paragon to local markets like Chatuchak. Bargaining is common in markets but not in malls.

Trains

Thailand has an extensive train network. The State Railway of Thailand operates long-distance trains, while the BTS Skytrain and MRT serve Bangkok. Booking in advance is recommended for long-distance travel.

Local Buses

Local buses are a cheap way to travel but can be confusing for non-locals due to the lack of English signage. Apps like ViaBus can help navigate routes and schedules.

Acceptance of Men from Senegal

Thailand is generally a welcoming country, and Thai people are known for their hospitality. However, like anywhere, there may be some individuals who have preconceived notions about foreigners. Senegalese men should be aware that while they may face curiosity or questions about their background, they are likely to be accepted warmly if they approach interactions with respect and openness.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Senegal

Humor can be a great icebreaker. You could say something like, “I’m from Senegal, where the sunsets are as beautiful as your smile!” or “In Senegal, we greet with a dance. Want to see my moves?” These light-hearted comments can make the conversation enjoyable and memorable.

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 relationships.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Hello! Your profile caught my eye. How’s your day going?”
• “Hi! I’m new to Thailand and would love to know more about your beautiful country. Any tips?”
• “Sawadee krap! (Hello in Thai) Your smile is contagious. What’s something you love to do here?”

Teaching Thai Women About Senegalese Culture

Share interesting aspects of Senegalese culture such as traditional music (like Mbalax), delicious dishes (like Thieboudienne), and the significance of family and community. You can also talk about famous landmarks like Goree Island or the vibrant city life in Dakar.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Thai culture places a high value on cleanliness and neatness. Dress smartly but comfortably, especially in the hot and humid climate. Casual yet tidy attire is generally acceptable. Ensure good personal hygiene by showering regularly, using deodorant, and keeping your hair and nails clean.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• If someone asks for money early in the relationship.
• If they avoid meeting in public places.
• If they seem overly secretive about their personal life.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

• Catfishing: People using fake profiles.
• Money Scams: Asking for financial help due to a “family emergency” or other fabricated reasons.
• Fake Relationships: Pretending to be interested in a relationship to gain trust and then asking for money or gifts.

Major Difference in Dating Between Senegal and Thailand

In Senegal, dating often involves family involvement early on, while in Thailand, relationships might initially be more private. Additionally, public displays of affection are more common in Senegal than in Thailand, where they are generally frowned upon.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Senegalese Women

Thai women may be more reserved initially compared to Senegalese women. They often value modesty and may take more time to open up. Family approval is significant in both cultures, but it might play a more immediate role in Senegalese relationships.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a night market for food and shopping.
• Exploring a temple or historical site.
• Enjoying a meal at a riverside restaurant.
• Taking a walk in a park or botanical garden.

Red Light Districts

Areas like Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are known for their nightlife and red light districts. Be cautious as these areas can attract scams and other unsavory activities.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Be aware that some profiles on dating apps may be soliciting paid relationships or sex work. If someone quickly shifts the conversation towards financial transactions, it’s a red flag.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Universities: Many universities have events open to the public.
2. Coffee Shops: Popular spots for young professionals.
3. Shopping Malls: CentralWorld, Siam Paragon.
4. Parks: Lumphini Park in Bangkok.
5. Night Markets: Chatuchak Weekend Market.
6. Cultural Festivals: Loy Krathong, Songkran.
7. Gyms and Fitness Centers: Many Thais are health-conscious.
8. Language Exchange Meetups: Great for meeting locals interested in other cultures.
9. Cooking Classes: Learn Thai cuisine while meeting new people.
10. Volunteer Events: Join local NGOs or community service groups.

Approach interactions with respect and genuine interest, and you’ll likely find making connections both meaningful and enjoyable.

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

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Before you visit the immigration office, gather the following documents:

• Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least six months.
• TM.7 Application Form: Available at the immigration office or can be downloaded online. Fill it out completely.
• Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent photos (4x6 cm).
• Photocopies of Passport Pages: Include the bio-data page, current visa page, and the entry stamp.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or cash equivalent to at least 20,000 THB per person or 40,000 THB per family.
• Application Fee: The extension fee is 1,900 THB. Prepare cash in Thai Baht.

Step 2: Visit the Immigration Office

Locate the nearest immigration office. In Bangkok, the main office is the Chaeng Wattana Immigration Office. Arrive early to avoid long queues.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

At the immigration office:

1. Queue for Service: Obtain a queue number from the information desk.
2. Document Verification: Present your documents to the officer for verification.
3. Pay the Fee: Pay the 1,900 THB extension fee at the cashier.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Processing usually takes a few hours. You may be asked to wait or return later in the day.

Step 5: Collect Your Passport

Once your extension is approved, collect your passport with the new extended visa or exemption stamp.

Important Tips:

• Dress Appropriately: Dress modestly as a sign of respect.
• Language Barrier: Be prepared for potential language barriers; having a Thai-speaking friend or translator can be helpful.
• Timing: Apply for an extension at least a week before your current visa or exemption expires to avoid overstaying penalties.

By following these steps, Senegalese passport holders can efficiently extend their stay in Thailand without hassle. Enjoy your extended time in this beautiful country!