متطلبات تأشيرة تايلاند للمواطنين السودانيين.

Population and Size of Country

Thailand has a population of approximately 70 million people, whereas Sudan has a population of about 44 million. In terms of land area, Thailand covers around 513,120 square kilometers, making it smaller than Sudan, which spans approximately 1.86 million square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand is predominantly ethnically Thai, with over 90% of the population identifying as such. There are also significant minority groups including Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. In contrast, Sudan is ethnically diverse with major groups including Arabs, Nubians, Beja, Fur, and Nuba among others.

Religion

The dominant religion in Thailand is Buddhism, practiced by about 95% of the population. Islam is the second-largest religion, mainly among the Malay ethnic group in the southern provinces. Sudan is predominantly Muslim with around 97% of the population adhering to Islam; the remaining population includes small Christian and indigenous religious communities.

GDP

Thailand’s GDP is significantly higher than that of Sudan. As of recent estimates, Thailand’s GDP stands at approximately $543 billion USD, whereas Sudan’s GDP is around $30 billion USD.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. The age distribution shows a larger proportion of older adults compared to children. In Sudan, the median age is much younger at around 19 years, reflecting a high birth rate and a larger proportion of children and young adults.

Men vs Women

In Thailand, the gender ratio is relatively balanced, with a slight predominance of women over men in the older age brackets due to higher life expectancy among females. In Sudan, the gender ratio is also fairly balanced but can vary significantly due to regional conflicts and migration patterns.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from tourism, manufacturing (especially electronics and automobiles), and agriculture (notably rice and rubber). In contrast, Sudan’s economy relies heavily on agriculture (including crops like sorghum and millet), livestock, and oil production. However, political instability and economic sanctions have impacted Sudan’s economic growth.

Violent Crime

In Thailand, violent crime rates are relatively low compared to many other countries, including Sudan. Incidents such as armed robbery, assault, and homicide are uncommon but not unheard of. The majority of violent crimes tend to occur in specific areas and are often linked to personal disputes or organized crime. Travelers are generally not targeted, but it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in less populated areas or during late hours.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are more common in tourist-heavy areas such as Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. These crimes are usually opportunistic and occur in crowded places like markets, public transportation, and tourist attractions. Keeping your belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings can significantly reduce the risk.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, including domestic violence and disputes among locals, do occur but are typically localized and rarely involve tourists. These crimes often stem from personal relationships and social issues within the local community. While these incidents are generally not a direct threat to travelers, it’s wise to avoid getting involved in local disputes.

Safety for Solo Women Travellers

Thailand is considered relatively safe for solo women travelers. However, exercising standard precautions is recommended. This includes avoiding poorly lit areas at night, not accepting drinks from strangers, and being cautious when using public transportation or ride-sharing services. Women travelers should also be aware that cultural norms in Thailand can be conservative, so dressing modestly can help avoid unwanted attention.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in Thailand’s major cities is generally safe, especially in well-lit and busy areas. However, caution should be exercised in less populated or poorly lit areas. Stick to main roads and avoid shortcuts through alleys or secluded areas. Using a reputable taxi service or ride-sharing app is advisable if you need to travel late at night.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are quite prevalent in Thailand. Common scams include overpriced taxi fares, gem scams, and fake tour operators. Always use licensed services and be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true. It’s also a good idea to research common scams before your trip and stay informed about the latest tactics used by scammers.

By staying aware and taking basic precautions, travelers from Sudan can enjoy a safe and memorable visit to Thailand.

Both Thai and Sudanese cuisines are known for their rich flavors, extensive use of spices, and vibrant dishes. While there are differences, travelers from Sudan will find some comforting similarities in the food culture.

Spices and Aromatics: Thai cuisine, like Sudanese cuisine, makes extensive use of spices and aromatics. In Thailand, expect to encounter dishes flavored with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers. These ingredients create a layered, aromatic experience similar to the way Sudanese dishes use spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom.

Rice and Noodle Dishes: Rice is a staple in both cuisines. In Thailand, you’ll find a variety of rice dishes such as Khao Pad (fried rice) and Khao Man Gai (chicken rice), which may remind you of Sudanese rice dishes like Ful Sudani (Sudanese fava bean stew with rice). Additionally, Thai noodle dishes such as Pad Thai or Pad See Ew offer a comforting similarity to Sudanese flatbreads and pasta dishes.

Grilled Meats: Both cultures enjoy grilled meats. In Thailand, Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers) and Gai Yang (grilled chicken) are popular street foods that echo the flavors of Sudanese grilled lamb or chicken skewers. The marinades often include a mix of sweet and savory elements, creating a familiar taste profile.

Soups and Stews: Thai soups like Tom Yum (spicy and sour soup) and Tom Kha Gai (coconut chicken soup) offer a complex flavor experience that might remind you of Sudanese stews such as Mullah (vegetable stew) or Bamia (okra stew). Both cuisines emphasize the balance of flavors – spicy, sour, salty, and sweet.

Seafood: For seafood lovers, Thai cuisine offers a plethora of options such as Pla Pao (grilled fish) and Goong Ob Woonsen (shrimp with glass noodles). While seafood might not be as prominent in Sudanese cuisine, the fresh, grilled preparations in Thailand are likely to be a delightful discovery.

Vegetarian Options: Thai cuisine offers a variety of vegetarian dishes that can cater to different dietary preferences. Dishes like Som Tum (green papaya salad) and Pad Pak Boong (stir-fried morning glory) provide fresh and flavorful vegetarian options that may be reminiscent of Sudanese salads and vegetable dishes.

Travelers from Sudan will find that while Thai cuisine introduces new ingredients and preparation methods, the underlying principles of flavor balance and spice usage create a culinary experience that feels both novel and familiar.

Cultural Differences and Making Friends

In Thailand, social interactions are often more reserved compared to Sudan. Thais value politeness, humility, and indirect communication. When making friends, a warm smile goes a long way. Thais often greet each other with a “wai,” a slight bow with hands pressed together in a prayer-like fashion. It’s polite to return the gesture, especially to elders or those in higher social positions.

What to Do and Not to Do

• Do: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.
• Don’t: Point your feet at people or religious objects; it’s considered very disrespectful. Avoid touching someone’s head, as it’s considered the most sacred part of the body.

Habits Not to Bring from Sudan

Public displays of anger or loud confrontations are frowned upon in Thailand. Thais value maintaining a calm and composed demeanor in public settings. Also, avoid public displays of affection; they are less common and can make people uncomfortable.

Deportment and Respect

Respect for elders and those in authority is deeply ingrained in Thai culture. Always address people with their proper titles and show deference to older individuals. When sitting, avoid pointing your feet towards people or religious objects, as it is considered disrespectful.

Touching

Physical contact is generally more reserved in Thailand. Avoid touching people casually, especially those of the opposite sex. A handshake is acceptable but not as common as the “wai.”

Religious Places

When visiting temples, dress conservatively. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Always remove your shoes before entering and avoid pointing your feet at Buddha statues or monks. Women should avoid physical contact with monks.

Public Presentation of Oneself

Thais place a high value on personal appearance and cleanliness. Dress neatly and modestly in public places. Loud or boisterous behavior is generally frowned upon.

Behavior on Public Transport

Public transport etiquette is important in Thailand. Give up your seat for monks, the elderly, and pregnant women. Keep noise levels down and avoid eating or drinking on public transport.

Losing and Gaining Face

“Losing face” refers to being embarrassed or humiliated in public, which is highly undesirable in Thai culture. It can happen through direct confrontation, criticism, or failure to meet social expectations. “Gaining face,” on the other hand, involves actions that bring respect and honor, such as showing kindness, being polite, and demonstrating competence. Always strive to help others “save face” by being considerate and avoiding direct criticism.

By understanding these cultural nuances, travelers from Sudan can navigate social interactions in Thailand more smoothly and respectfully.

Bringing Phone from Sudan

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

Internet Availability

Thailand has extensive 4G coverage, and 5G is available in major cities. Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and shopping malls. Consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan for uninterrupted internet access.

Dominant Messaging Apps

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

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

• Google Maps: For navigation.
• Grab: For taxi services.
• LINE: For messaging.
• Airbnb or Agoda: For accommodation bookings.
• Foodpanda or GrabFood: For food delivery.

Currency

The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s recommended to exchange some currency before arrival or at the airport. Currency exchange booths are widely available in cities.

ATM Use

ATMs are plentiful, but they often charge a fee for foreign cards. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with withdrawals. Some ATMs allow you to withdraw cash in your home currency.

Taxi Apps

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

Food Delivery

Foodpanda and GrabFood are the leading food delivery services. They offer a wide variety of local and international cuisines.

Credit Cards

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

Shopping

Thailand offers a range of shopping experiences from high-end malls like Siam Paragon in Bangkok to local markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market. Bargaining is common in markets but not in malls.

Trains

Thailand’s train network connects major cities and tourist destinations. The State Railway of Thailand operates these services. Book tickets in advance, especially for long-distance travel.

Local Buses

Local buses are an economical way to get around cities. However, routes can be confusing for non-locals. Apps like Moovit can help you navigate bus routes.

Acceptance of Men from Sudan

Thai society is generally open and friendly towards foreigners, including men from Sudan. However, be prepared for some curiosity and questions about your background, as Sudan is not a well-known country in Thailand. Embrace this as an opportunity to share your culture.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Sudan

Humor can be a great icebreaker. You might say, “I’m from Sudan, where the sun is so hot it makes Thai summers feel like winter!” or “In Sudan, we have pyramids too, but ours are older than the ones in Egypt!”

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have large user bases and are widely used by locals and expats alike.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Hi! I’m [Your Name] from Sudan. Have you ever met someone from my country before?”
• “Sawadee krap! I’m new here and would love to learn more about Thai culture. Can you be my guide?”
• “Hello! I noticed we both love [common interest]. How about we chat more about it?”

Teaching Thai Women About Sudanese Culture

Share interesting facts about Sudanese history, cuisine, and traditions. You can say, “Did you know Sudan has more pyramids than Egypt?” or “Our traditional dish, Ful Medames, is something you must try!”

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and modestly. Casual wear like jeans and a clean shirt is fine for most occasions. Personal hygiene is crucial; ensure you are well-groomed and use deodorant, as Thailand’s climate can be quite humid.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• If she avoids meeting in public places.
• If she asks for money or gifts early on.
• If her profile seems too perfect or uses stock photos.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

Beware of “romance scams” where someone might build a relationship quickly and then ask for financial help. Also, be cautious of profiles that direct you to external websites or ask for personal information.

Major Difference in Dating Between Sudan and Thailand

In Thailand, dating can be more casual and less family-involved initially compared to Sudan. Public displays of affection are generally more accepted in Thailand but still should be moderate.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Sudanese Women

Thai women may be more open to casual dating and less concerned with immediate family approval compared to Sudanese women. However, they often value respect, politeness, and genuine interest in their culture.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a local market or night bazaar.
• Enjoying street food together.
• Exploring a temple or cultural site.
• Having coffee or tea at a cozy café.
• Taking a walk in a park or by the river.

Red Light Districts

Areas like Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are well-known red light districts. Be cautious if you visit these areas as they are often associated with nightlife and adult entertainment.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Prostitution is illegal in Thailand but still prevalent. Be wary of profiles that seem overly suggestive or make direct offers for paid companionship.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Cafés - Popular spots like Starbucks or local coffee shops.
2. Universities - Attend public lectures or cultural events.
3. Shopping Malls - CentralWorld, Siam Paragon.
4. Night Markets - Chatuchak Weekend Market.
5. Parks - Lumphini Park in Bangkok.
6. Gyms - Fitness centers like Fitness First.
7. Language Exchange Meetups - Check on platforms like Meetup.com.
8. Cooking Classes - Learn Thai cuisine together.
9. Temples - Wat Pho or Wat Arun during festivals.
10. Volunteer Events - Join community service activities.

Feel free to explore these suggestions while being respectful of cultural differences and personal boundaries. Enjoy your time in Thailand!

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

Extending your stay in Thailand as a Sudanese passport holder involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s a practical guide to help you through the process:

1. Prepare Required Documents

• Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least 6 months and has blank pages.
• TM.7 Application Form: This can be downloaded online or obtained from the Immigration Office.
• Passport-sized Photos: Two recent 4x6 cm photos.
• Visa Extension Fee: The fee is typically 1,900 THB, payable in cash.
• Proof of Accommodation: A copy of your hotel booking or a letter from your host.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or cash showing sufficient funds (usually around 20,000 THB).

2. Visit the Immigration Office

• Locate the nearest Immigration Office. Offices are available in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.
• Arrive early to avoid long queues.
• Dress appropriately as a sign of respect.

3. Submit Your Application

• Fill out the TM.7 form completely and accurately.
• Submit your passport, photos, and all required documents to the immigration officer.
• Pay the visa extension fee.

4. Interview Process

• Some offices may conduct a brief interview. Be prepared to explain your reasons for extending your stay.
• Answer questions politely and honestly.

5. Wait for Processing

• Processing times can vary but usually take around 1-2 hours.
• You may need to wait at the office until your extension is approved.

6. Receive Your Extension Stamp

• Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the new visa extension date.
• Double-check the stamp to ensure all details are correct.

7. Keep Records

• Keep copies of all documents submitted and received.
• Note the new expiration date of your visa or visa exemption.

Tips for a Smooth Extension Process

• Plan Ahead: Start the extension process at least a week before your current visa or exemption expires.
• Stay Informed: Regulations can change, so check the latest requirements on the official Thai Immigration website or consult with the Immigration Office directly.
• Be Polite and Patient: Immigration offices can be busy, so patience and courtesy go a long way.

By following these steps, you can successfully extend your stay in Thailand and continue enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer. Safe travels!