Land of Smiles Yoga Retreat FAQ’s: Nov 8, 2024 - Nov 15, 2024

No, just an interest in Thailand and Yoga! All levels are welcome. 

Absolutely! Many people attend yoga retreats alone, and it's a great opportunity to meet likeminded individuals and make new friends or enjoy the solitude on your own. 

Thailand has gained a reputation as a highly inclusive and welcoming destination for LGBTQ travelers. While homosexuality is legal in the country, it is important to note that Thai law does not currently recognize same-sex marriages, civil unions, or domestic partnerships. However, same-sex couples are warmly welcomed, particularly in urban areas. In fact, Bangkok is renowned for its vibrant and diverse LGBTQ nightlife, which is among the largest and most respected in Asia. Additionally, the city of Pattaya hosts the prestigious Miss International Queen beauty pageant for transgender women on an annual basis.

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is typically from November to February when the weather is cooler and drier.

Yes.

US citizens traveling to Thailand for tourism purposes for up to 30 days do not need a visa. For longer stays, a visa may be required. However,  you DO need a valid passport to travel to Thailand. 

The recommended airport to fly into for our Thailand yoga retreat is Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). It is the closest airport to our retreat location and offers multiple flight options from major cities around the world. From the airport, we will provide transportation to the retreat center.

The flight duration from Boston to Chiang Mai, Thailand can vary between 20 to 24 hours, (or longer) depending on the airline and the number of layovers. It is crucial to mention that there are currently no direct flights available from Boston to Thailand. This may require travelers to make layovers at different airports, potentially adding to the overall travel time. It is recommended to plan ahead and research different flight options to find the most efficient and comfortable route for your journey.

Chiang Mai is 11 hours ahead of Boston.

It's advisable to drink bottled or filtered water to avoid any potential stomach issues. Tap water may not be safe for consumption.

No, we have mats available at the Villa for you.

Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples, covering their shoulders and knees out of respect.

Expect a comprehensive packing list to guide you on what to bring for your yoga retreat.

The currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). 

Yes, but do so respectfully and with a smile. It's all part of the culture and experience.

- In many Western nations, it is accepted for individuals to mock national leaders and even members of royalty. However, in Thailand, there are stringent laws known as lese-majeste, which can result in severe penalties for those who insult the monarchy, including lengthy imprisonment. It is considered extremely disrespectful to speak negatively or make jokes about the Thai royal family. This includes not only the current monarch, but also past kings and queens.

- It is considered rude to point your feet at someone or at a sacred object in Thailand. This is because the feet are seen as the lowest and dirtiest part of the body.

- Stepping on Thai currency is illegal as it disrespects the image of the King. If you accidentally drop a Thai bill, don’t use your feet to stop it from rolling away.

- When visiting temples, it is important to dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and knees. Revealing clothing is considered disrespectful in Thai culture.

- In Thailand, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's home. This rule also applies when entering temples and some shops or restaurants.

- Tipping is not expected in Thailand, as it is already included in the bill or service charge. However, if you do receive exceptional service, a small tip is appreciated.

- As a sign of respect, it is common to wai (a slight bow with your hands pressed together) when greeting someone in Thailand. The higher your hands are placed, the more respect you are showing.

- Avoid public displays of affection in Thailand, as it is considered inappropriate and can make locals uncomfortable.

- It is important to be aware of cultural and religious customs in Thailand, such as not touching someone's head (as it is believed to be the most sacred part of the body) and not pointing with your index finger (use your entire hand instead).

The official language in Thailand is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

To greet someone in Thai, visitors should say "Sawasdee" (pronounced "sah-wah-dee") followed by the appropriate finishing particle to make it polite. Men typically say "Sawasdee khrap!" with a short and sharp finish, while women draw out the finish with "Sawasdee khaa..." Thai people use this same greeting regardless of the time of day or night. 

Bonus points for saying "thank you" in Thai! The word for "thank you" in Thai is "khob khun" (pronounced "kohb koon"). To add the masculine or feminine form, simply add "khrap" for men and "khaa" for women at the end. So for example, a man would say "khob khun khrap" and a woman would say "khob khun khaa." This small addition shows respect and is appreciated by the locals.