"Visumvereisten voor Thailand voor Surinaamse burgers."

Population

Thailand has a significantly larger population compared to Suriname. As of recent estimates, Thailand’s population stands at approximately 70 million people, whereas Suriname has a much smaller population of around 600,000.

Size of Country

Thailand covers an area of about 513,120 square kilometers, making it substantially larger than Suriname, which has an area of approximately 163,820 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand is predominantly ethnically Thai, with over 90% of the population identifying as such. There are also minorities like Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. Suriname, on the other hand, is highly diverse ethnically. The population includes East Indians (Hindustanis), Creoles (mixed African and European descent), Javanese, Maroons (descendants of African slaves), Amerindians, Chinese, and Europeans.

Religion

In Thailand, Buddhism is the dominant religion, practiced by about 95% of the population. Islam and Christianity are also present but in much smaller numbers. Suriname is religiously diverse with Christianity being the largest religion (about 48%), followed by Hinduism (22%), Islam (14%), and other indigenous and African traditional religions.

GDP

Thailand has a much larger GDP compared to Suriname. As of the latest data, Thailand’s GDP is around $543 billion USD, whereas Suriname’s GDP is approximately $3.5 billion USD.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with about 11% aged 65 and older, 71% between the ages of 15 and 64, and 18% under the age of 15. Suriname has a younger demographic profile with around 8% aged 65 and older, 66% between 15 and 64, and 26% under 15.

Men vs Women

Both countries have relatively balanced gender ratios. In Thailand, the ratio is approximately 97 men for every 100 women. In Suriname, the ratio is slightly higher with about 99 men for every 100 women.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is diverse. Key sectors include tourism, agriculture (notably rice), manufacturing (especially electronics and automobiles), and services. Suriname’s economy relies heavily on natural resources, particularly bauxite mining, oil, gold mining, and agriculture.

Violent Crime

Thailand generally has a lower rate of violent crime compared to many Western countries, including Suriname. However, violent incidents can still occur, particularly in nightlife areas and during large public events. It’s advisable to avoid confrontations and stay away from isolated areas, especially after dark.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are relatively common in tourist-heavy areas like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. Travelers should remain vigilant, keep their belongings secure, and avoid displaying valuables in public.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion do occur in Thailand, often linked to domestic disputes or romantic entanglements. While tourists are less likely to be involved in such incidents, it’s important to be cautious in personal relationships and avoid situations that could lead to conflict.

Safety for Solo Women Travellers

Thailand is generally considered safe for solo women travelers. However, it’s important to exercise common sense precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, not accepting drinks from strangers, and dressing modestly to respect local customs. Women should also be cautious when using taxis or ride-sharing services late at night.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in well-populated and well-lit areas is generally safe in Thailand. However, it’s advisable to avoid deserted streets and alleyways. Stick to main roads and areas with a visible security presence, especially in cities like Bangkok.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are prevalent in Thailand. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers, gem scams, and fake tour operators. Always use reputable services, agree on prices beforehand, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. If something feels off, trust your instincts and walk away.

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

Thailand and Suriname both boast rich and diverse culinary traditions, characterized by the use of fresh ingredients and a balance of flavors. Travelers from Suriname will find some familiar elements in Thai cuisine, such as the use of rice, seafood, tropical fruits, and a variety of spices.

Similarities in Ingredients

Both Thai and Surinamese cuisines make extensive use of rice as a staple food. In Thailand, jasmine rice is most common, while in Suriname, long-grain rice is typically used. Seafood is another shared element, with both countries featuring dishes that include fish, shrimp, and crab. Additionally, tropical fruits like mangoes, bananas, and coconuts are prevalent in both culinary traditions.

Similarities in Flavors

Surinamese and Thai cuisines both emphasize a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors. In Thailand, this balance is achieved through ingredients like fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and chili peppers. Similarly, Surinamese dishes often combine these flavor profiles using ingredients such as tamarind, hot peppers, and brown sugar.

Types of Thai Food to Try

1. Pad Thai: This iconic Thai dish consists of stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp or chicken, tofu, eggs, bean sprouts, and peanuts. The dish is flavored with tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar.

2. Tom Yum Goong: A hot and sour soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili peppers. The broth is both spicy and tangy.

3. Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan): A creamy curry made with green curry paste, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, eggplant, and your choice of meat or tofu. It’s typically served with jasmine rice.

4. Som Tum: A spicy green papaya salad that combines shredded green papaya with tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, dried shrimp, and a dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and chili peppers.

5. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang): A popular dessert made with glutinous rice cooked in sweetened coconut milk and served with ripe mango slices.

6. Massaman Curry: A milder curry compared to others in Thai cuisine, it features tender chunks of meat (usually beef or chicken), potatoes, peanuts, and a rich coconut milk-based sauce flavored with cinnamon and star anise.

By exploring these dishes, travelers from Suriname will find both familiar tastes and exciting new flavors that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Thailand.

Cultural Differences

Travellers from Suriname will find Thailand’s culture both fascinating and distinct. Thai people are generally warm and hospitable, but there are specific cultural nuances to be aware of.

Making Friends

Thais are usually friendly and open to making new friends, but it’s important to approach them with respect and humility. A traditional Thai greeting, called the “wai,” involves placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly. This is a sign of respect and is often used when meeting someone for the first time.

What to Do

• Respect the Monarchy: Thais hold their royal family in high regard. Avoid making any negative comments about the monarchy.
• Dress Modestly: When visiting temples or religious sites, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Remove your shoes before entering.
• Be Polite: Use polite language and avoid confrontation. Thais value harmony and will often avoid direct conflict.

What Not to Do

• Don’t Touch the Head: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid touching anyone’s head, even children.
• Don’t Point Your Feet: Feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects.
• Don’t Raise Your Voice: Raising your voice or showing anger in public is frowned upon and can cause you to “lose face.”

Habits Not to Bring from Suriname

• Directness: While directness might be appreciated in Suriname, it can be seen as rude in Thailand. Be subtle and indirect when communicating.
• Casual Dress: While casual dress might be common in Suriname, it’s important to dress more conservatively in Thailand, especially in formal or religious settings.

Deportment and Respect

Thais place a high value on respect and proper deportment. Always show respect to elders and those of higher social status. Use both hands when giving or receiving something from someone older or of higher status.

Touching

Physical touch is less common in Thai culture compared to Surinamese culture. Avoid public displays of affection, and be mindful of personal space.

Religious Places

When visiting temples, dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering, and avoid loud conversations. Never position yourself higher than a Buddha statue, and do not touch religious artifacts.

Public Presentation of Oneself

Maintain a neat and clean appearance. Thais appreciate well-groomed individuals. Avoid overly casual attire in public spaces.

Behavior on Public Transport

On public transport, be quiet and respectful. Offer your seat to monks, elderly people, and pregnant women. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “losing face” means losing respect or dignity in the eyes of others. This can occur through public embarrassment, failure, or inappropriate behavior. Conversely, “gaining face” involves actions that bring respect and honor to oneself or others. Always strive to act in a way that maintains harmony and shows respect for others.

By understanding these cultural differences and adhering to local customs, travellers from Suriname can enjoy a respectful and enriching experience in Thailand.

Bringing Phone from Suriname
Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with GSM networks. Thailand uses GSM 900/1800 MHz for 2G, 3G on 850/2100 MHz, and 4G LTE on various bands. Most modern smartphones are compatible, but it’s wise to double-check.

Internet Availability
Thailand has widespread internet availability, with Wi-Fi accessible in most hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan is recommended for constant connectivity. Major telecom providers include AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove.

Dominant Messaging Apps
LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand, followed by WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. Download these apps to stay connected with locals.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

• LINE: For messaging and communication.
• Google Maps: Essential for navigation.
• Grab: For ride-hailing and food delivery.
• Klook or GetYourGuide: For booking tours and activities.
• XE Currency: For real-time currency conversion.

Currency
The currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s advisable to exchange some money before arrival or use ATMs upon arrival for local currency.

ATM Use
ATMs are widely available and accept international cards. However, they usually charge a fee of around 220 THB per transaction. Notify your bank beforehand to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Taxi Apps
Grab is the dominant taxi app and offers reliable service across major cities. It’s similar to Uber and allows you to book rides easily.

Food Delivery
In addition to Grab, Foodpanda is another popular food delivery service. Both apps offer a wide range of restaurant options and are user-friendly.

Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, including hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls. However, smaller businesses and markets may prefer cash.

Shopping
Bangkok is a shopping haven with options ranging from luxury malls like Siam Paragon to bustling markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market. Always carry some cash for market purchases and small vendors.

Trains
Thailand’s train network is extensive and includes the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) for long-distance travel and the BTS Skytrain and MRT for urban transit in Bangkok. Booking tickets for long-distance trains in advance is recommended.

Local Buses
Local buses are an economical way to travel but can be confusing for non-Thai speakers. Apps like Moovit can help navigate bus routes in Bangkok. For intercity travel, consider using VIP buses for comfort and reliability.

Acceptance of Men from Suriname

Thai society is generally welcoming to foreigners, and men from Suriname are no exception. As long as you are respectful and show genuine interest in Thai culture, you will find it relatively easy to form connections. Being from a less-known country like Suriname could even make you more intriguing to Thai women.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Suriname

You can use humor to break the ice by saying something like, “I’m from Suriname. No, it’s not a type of sushi, it’s a small but beautiful country in South America!” This can serve as both a conversation starter and a way to introduce your background.

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have large user bases 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 Suriname. Have you ever met someone from there?”
• “Sawadee krap! I’m new here and would love some local tips!”
• “Your smile caught my eye. How’s your day going?”

Teaching Thai Women About Surinamer Culture

You can share interesting facts about Suriname, such as its diverse culture, beautiful rainforests, and unique cuisine. Mentioning popular Surinamese dishes like roti or pom can also be an engaging topic.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and appropriately for the occasion. Thai women appreciate a well-groomed appearance. Personal hygiene is crucial; make sure to shower regularly, use deodorant, and maintain clean nails and teeth.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• Reluctance to meet in public places
• Asking for money or gifts early on
• Inconsistent stories or evasive answers about their background
• Overly quick declarations of love or affection

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

Be wary of individuals who:

• Ask for financial assistance or gifts
• Claim they are in urgent situations requiring money
• Insist on moving the conversation off the app too quickly
• Have suspiciously perfect profiles with few details

Major Difference in Dating Between Suriname and Thailand

Thai culture tends to be more conservative compared to Suriname. Public displays of affection are less common, and family approval often plays a significant role in relationships.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Surinamer Women

Thai women may be more reserved initially and place a high value on family and social harmony. They might expect more traditional gender roles compared to women from Suriname, who may be more outspoken and independent.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a night market
• Exploring a temple
• Having dinner at a local restaurant
• Taking a walk in a park
• Attending a cultural show or event

Red Light Districts

Areas like Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are well-known red light districts. These areas are best avoided if you’re looking for genuine relationships.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

While most users are genuine, some profiles might be fronts for prostitution. Be cautious if someone immediately suggests meeting at hotels or asks for money.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Shopping malls (e.g., Siam Paragon, CentralWorld)
2. Coffee shops (e.g., Starbucks, local cafes)
3. University campuses (e.g., Chulalongkorn University)
4. Parks (e.g., Lumpini Park)
5. Cultural events and festivals
6. Language exchange meetups
7. Cooking classes
8. Gyms or fitness centers
9. Volunteer activities
10. Bookstores or libraries

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

Extending your stay in Thailand as a Surinamer passport holder is a straightforward process whether you are on a tourist visa or a visa exemption. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth extension:

1. Gather Required Documents

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

• Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• TM.6 Departure Card: This was given to you upon arrival in Thailand.
• Completed TM.7 Form: This is the application form for visa extension and can be downloaded online or obtained at the immigration office.
• Passport-sized Photos: Usually, one recent photo (4x6 cm) is required.
• Extension Fee: The standard fee is 1,900 THB, payable in cash.

2. Locate the Nearest Immigration Office

Find the closest immigration office to your current location. Major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket have immigration offices that handle visa extensions.

3. Visit the Immigration Office

Arrive early to avoid long queues. Here’s what to do once you get there:

• Submit Documents: Hand over your passport, TM.6 departure card, completed TM.7 form, and passport-sized photo.
• Pay the Fee: Pay the 1,900 THB fee for the extension.
• Wait for Processing: Processing times can vary, but it usually takes a few hours. You may be asked to wait or return later in the day.

4. Receive Your Extension

Once your application is approved, you will receive a stamp in your passport indicating the new expiration date of your stay. Double-check the date to ensure it matches your intended departure plans.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Dress Appropriately: Wear respectful attire as a sign of respect for Thai customs and to avoid any potential issues.
• Bring Extra Cash: Sometimes fees may vary or additional fees might be required.
• Copy of Important Documents: Keep copies of your passport, visa stamp, and any other relevant documents in case anything gets lost.

Special Considerations

• Overstay Penalties: Avoid overstaying your visa as fines and penalties can be severe.
• Re-entry Permits: If you plan to leave Thailand and return during your extended stay, apply for a re-entry permit to avoid losing your extension.

By following these steps, Surinamer passport holders can easily extend their stay in Thailand and continue enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer.