Tailandiýanyň wiza talaplary Türkmenistanly raýatlar üçin.

Population

Thailand has a significantly larger population compared to Turkmenistan. As of recent estimates, Thailand’s population is around 70 million people, whereas Turkmenistan has a population of approximately 6 million.

Size of Country

Thailand covers an area of about 513,120 square kilometers, making it larger than Turkmenistan, which spans around 488,100 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand’s population is predominantly Thai, with significant minorities including Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. Turkmenistan is largely homogeneous with over 85% of the population being Turkmen; other ethnic groups include Uzbeks, Russians, and Kazakhs.

Religion

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand, practiced by about 95% of the population. In contrast, Turkmenistan is predominantly Muslim, with Islam being practiced by around 93% of the population.

GDP

Thailand has a more diversified and larger economy with a GDP of approximately $505 billion USD. Turkmenistan has a smaller economy with a GDP of around $45 billion USD, heavily reliant on natural gas exports.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. The population distribution shows a significant portion in the older age brackets. Turkmenistan has a younger population with a median age of about 26 years, indicating a larger proportion of its populace in the younger age brackets.

Men vs Women

In Thailand, the gender ratio is relatively balanced with a slight female majority. In Turkmenistan, men slightly outnumber women.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is diverse with major income sources including tourism, manufacturing (particularly automotive and electronics), and agriculture (rice, rubber). Turkmenistan’s economy is heavily dependent on natural gas exports, which constitute the bulk of its income, followed by agriculture (cotton and wheat).

Violent Crime

Thailand generally has a lower rate of violent crime compared to many other countries. While violent crimes do occur, they are relatively rare in tourist areas. However, visitors should remain vigilant, especially in crowded places and during late hours. In contrast, Turkmenistan also has a relatively low rate of violent crime, but the types of crimes and their prevalence can differ.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are more common in Thailand, particularly in tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. Tourists should be cautious in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. In Turkmenistan, casual crimes are less frequently reported, but it is always wise to remain cautious.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, often involving domestic disputes or personal relationships, do occur in Thailand but are not typically directed at tourists. Such incidents are more likely to be found in local news rather than affecting visitors. Turkmenistan also experiences crimes of passion but these are usually confined to private settings and rarely impact tourists.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers

Thailand is generally considered safe for solo women travelers, though it is advisable to exercise standard precautions. Women should avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious when interacting with strangers. In Turkmenistan, cultural norms may make solo travel for women less common, but the country is also considered relatively safe for female travelers.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in Thailand’s tourist areas is generally safe, but caution is advised. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or secluded places. In Turkmenistan, walking around at night can be less common due to cultural norms and limited nightlife, but it is generally safe in well-populated areas.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are quite prevalent in Thailand. Common scams include overcharging by tuk-tuk drivers, gem scams, and fake tour operators. Tourists should be wary of deals that seem too good to be true and always verify the credentials of service providers. Scamming is less common in Turkmenistan, but travelers should still be cautious and aware of their surroundings.

By keeping these differences in mind, travelers from Turkmenistan can better prepare for a safe and enjoyable trip to Thailand.

Thai and Turkmen cuisines share a love for bold flavors and aromatic spices, but they also have their unique characteristics. Both culinary traditions emphasize the use of fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices, making the dishes vibrant and flavorful.

In Thailand, travelers from Turkmenistan will find similarities in the use of rice and noodles as staple foods, much like how bread and rice are commonly used in Turkmen cuisine. Thai cuisine often features jasmine rice, sticky rice, and a variety of noodles, which can be compared to the Turkmen love for pilaf and other rice-based dishes.

Turkmen travelers will appreciate the Thai penchant for grilled meats. While shashlik (grilled meat skewers) is popular in Turkmenistan, Thailand offers a variety of grilled dishes such as Gai Yang (grilled chicken) and Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers). These dishes are often marinated with herbs and spices, providing a familiar yet distinct taste.

Spices and herbs play a central role in both cuisines. In Turkmenistan, cumin, coriander, and dill are frequently used, while Thai cuisine heavily features lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Dishes like Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup) and Tom Kha Gai (chicken in coconut soup) highlight these aromatic ingredients, offering a new yet somewhat familiar flavor profile.

Turkmen travelers should also try Thailand’s famous curries. While different from Turkmen stews, Thai curries such as Gaeng Keow Wan (green curry) and Massaman Curry offer rich and complex flavors that may remind them of home-cooked meals. These curries often include coconut milk, which adds a creamy texture similar to some Turkmen dishes that incorporate dairy.

For dessert lovers, Thailand’s sweets like Khao Niew Mamuang (mango sticky rice) and Luk Chup (fruit-shaped mung bean desserts) offer a delightful end to a meal. While these desserts may differ from Turkmen sweets like pishme and chak-chak, they share a common love for sweet flavors and intricate preparation methods.

Lastly, street food culture is vibrant in both countries. In Thailand, travelers can enjoy an array of street food options such as Pad Thai, Som Tum (papaya salad), and Satay (grilled meat skewers), which provide a great way to experience local flavors and culinary traditions.

By exploring these similarities and differences, travelers from Turkmenistan can enjoy a rich culinary journey through Thailand that feels both adventurous and comforting.

Making Friends

In Thailand, making friends often begins with a warm and respectful greeting. The traditional Thai greeting is the “wai,” where you place your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly. This is a sign of respect and is commonly used when meeting someone for the first time. Thais value politeness, so speaking softly and showing humility can go a long way in building relationships.

What to Do

When visiting Thailand, make an effort to learn some basic Thai phrases. Even simple greetings or thank-you’s in Thai can be appreciated by locals. Participating in local customs and festivals, such as Songkran (Thai New Year) or Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights), can also be a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and make friends.

What Not to Do

Avoid speaking loudly or aggressively, as this is generally frowned upon in Thai culture. Public displays of anger or frustration can cause you to “lose face,” which is considered highly disrespectful. Additionally, criticizing the Thai monarchy or religion is a serious offense and can lead to legal consequences.

Habits Not to Bring from Turkmenistan

In Turkmenistan, it might be common to engage in direct eye contact or speak openly about one’s opinions. In Thailand, however, these behaviors can be seen as confrontational or disrespectful. It is also essential to avoid touching someone’s head, as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture.

Deportment and Respect

When visiting religious places such as temples, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes before entering any temple or someone’s home. Always show respect to monks and religious statues; for instance, women should never touch monks or hand objects directly to them.

Touching

Physical contact, especially between the opposite sexes, should be minimized in public. Handshakes are not as common as the “wai,” and public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

Public Presentation of Oneself

Dress neatly and conservatively in public places. Wearing revealing clothing can be considered disrespectful. Maintain a calm and composed demeanor, even in stressful situations.

Behavior on Public Transport

On public transport, give up your seat for monks, elderly people, and pregnant women. Keep noise levels down and avoid eating or drinking. Standing in line and waiting your turn is expected, so refrain from pushing or rushing.

Losing and Gaining Face

“Losing face” refers to being embarrassed or humiliated in public, which can have serious social consequences in Thailand. To avoid this, always act respectfully and avoid confrontations. “Gaining face,” on the other hand, involves actions that bring honor and respect to oneself and others. Complimenting others, showing kindness, and maintaining a positive demeanor are ways to gain face in Thai culture.

By understanding and respecting these cultural differences, travelers from Turkmenistan can enjoy a more enriching and harmonious experience in Thailand.

Bringing Phone from Turkmenistan

Your phone from Turkmenistan should work in Thailand as long as it is unlocked and supports GSM networks. Ensure your phone can operate on the 900 and 1800 MHz frequency bands, which are common in Thailand.

Internet Availability

Thailand has widespread internet availability, with 4G coverage in most urban and rural areas. You can purchase a local SIM card at the airport or from numerous convenience stores and mobile shops. Major providers include AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are also widely used but to a lesser extent.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

• LINE: For messaging and local communication.
• Google Maps: Essential for navigation.
• Grab: For taxi services and food delivery.
• Klook: For booking tours and activities.
• Bangkok MRT & BTS: For public transit information.

Currency

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s advisable to exchange some currency before arrival or at the airport. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.

ATM Use

ATMs are plentiful in urban areas and tourist destinations. Most ATMs charge a fee for foreign cards (around 200-250 THB per transaction). Inform your bank before traveling to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the most commonly used app for booking taxis. It’s similar to Uber and offers various services including car rides, motorbike taxis, and even food delivery.

Food Delivery

Food delivery is very popular in Thailand. The main apps include GrabFood, Foodpanda, and LINE MAN. They offer a range of options from local street food to international cuisine.

Credit Cards

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

Shopping

Thailand offers a variety 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 is extensive, with the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operating long-distance routes. The trains are generally reliable and an affordable way to travel between cities.

Local Buses

Local buses are available in most cities and are an economical way to get around. However, they can be confusing for non-locals due to language barriers and lack of clear schedules. In Bangkok, the BMTA operates an extensive bus network.

Acceptance of Men from Turkmenistan

Thai people are generally welcoming and curious about foreigners, including those from Turkmenistan. While not many Thai people might be familiar with Turkmenistan, this can work to your advantage as it makes you an intriguing figure. Be ready to share interesting facts about your country and culture.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Turkmenistan

Humor is a great ice-breaker. You could say something like, “I’m from Turkmenistan, a place so unique even Google gets confused!” or “Turkmenistan: where our carpets are more famous than our football team!”

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have a large user base and are user-friendly.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

1. “Sawadee krap! I’m [Your Name] from Turkmenistan. Have you ever met someone from my country?”
2. “Hi! I see you love [common interest]. In Turkmenistan, we have something similar. Want to know more?”
3. “Hello! Your smile caught my eye. How’s your day going?”

Teaching Thai Women About Turkmen Culture

Share interesting aspects of Turkmen culture, like the significance of traditional carpets, the beauty of the Karakum Desert, and the historical importance of the Silk Road. Use visuals and stories to make it engaging.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and casually for most occasions. Thai women appreciate good grooming and cleanliness. Avoid overly flashy clothes; smart-casual is usually a safe bet. Personal hygiene is crucial—regular showers, clean clothes, and a pleasant scent go a long way.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• She avoids meeting in public places.
• She asks for money or expensive gifts early on.
• She has inconsistent stories or seems too good to be true.
• She is overly secretive about her personal life.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

• Romance scams where the person asks for money due to a ‘family emergency.’
• Fake profiles using photos of attractive people to lure you in.
• Requests for personal information like bank details or passwords.

Major Difference in Dating Between Turkmenistan and Thailand

In Thailand, dating tends to be more casual and open compared to the conservative nature of relationships in Turkmenistan. Public displays of affection are more common, and there is generally less parental involvement in choosing partners.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Turkmen Women

Thai women are often more independent and open-minded due to the cultural diversity in Thailand. They may also be more expressive in their emotions compared to Turkmen women, who might be more reserved due to cultural norms.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a night market or food market.
• Going for a walk in a park or by the river.
• Enjoying a Thai cooking class together.
• Exploring temples or cultural sites.
• Having coffee or tea at a cozy café.

Red Light Districts

Be aware that areas like Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are known for their red-light activities. These areas might not be ideal for meaningful relationships but can be interesting to see if you’re curious about Thailand’s nightlife.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

While many people use dating apps for genuine connections, some may use them for solicitation. Be cautious if someone quickly steers the conversation towards explicit topics or asks for money in exchange for meeting up.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Universities - Many universities have cultural events open to the public.
2. Coffee Shops - Popular spots for locals to relax and socialize.
3. Night Markets - Great places to meet people while enjoying local food.
4. Gyms and Fitness Classes - Join a class or gym to meet health-conscious individuals.
5. Cultural Festivals - Participate in local festivals and events.
6. Language Exchange Meetups - Great for meeting locals interested in learning English or other languages.
7. Volunteer Events - Join community service projects.
8. Cooking Classes - Learn Thai cuisine while meeting new people.
9. Bookstores - Ideal for striking up conversations with like-minded individuals.
10. Public Parks - Many locals enjoy outdoor activities like jogging or yoga.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the dating scene in Thailand with confidence and respect for cultural differences.

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

If you are a Turkmen passport holder looking to extend your stay in Thailand beyond your initial visa or visa exemption period, follow these steps:

1. Understand Your Options

Turkmen passport holders can extend their stay in Thailand by:

• Extending a Tourist Visa: You can apply for a 30-day extension.
• Extending a Visa Exemption: If you entered Thailand under a visa exemption, you can apply for a 30-day extension.

2. Prepare Necessary Documents

To apply for an extension, you will need the following:

• Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least 6 months.
• TM.7 Form: This is the application form for extension of temporary stay. You can download it online or get it at the immigration office.
• Passport-sized Photo: One recent photo (4x6 cm).
• Photocopy of Passport Pages: Include the photo page, latest entry stamp, and current visa or visa exemption stamp.
• Extension Fee: The fee is typically 1,900 Thai Baht (subject to change).

3. Visit the Immigration Office

Go to the nearest Immigration Office in Thailand. Major offices are located in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya.

4. Submit Your Application

• Fill Out the TM.7 Form: Complete the form with accurate information.
• Submit Documents: Hand in your completed form along with the required documents and your passport.
• Pay the Fee: Pay the 1,900 Thai Baht fee.

5. Wait for Processing

• Processing Time: The extension process usually takes a few hours to a day. You may be asked to wait at the office or return later.
• Approval: Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the new extended date.

6. Confirm Extension

Before leaving the immigration office, check your passport to ensure that the extension date is correct.

Tips:

• Early Application: Apply for an extension at least a week before your current visa or exemption period expires.
• Dress Code: Wear respectful attire when visiting immigration offices.
• Language: Bring a Thai-speaking friend if you are not comfortable with English or Thai.

By following these steps, you can successfully extend your stay in Thailand and continue enjoying your travels without interruption.