Visa : Visitors to Thailand who hold valid passports or traveling documents by any of the 57 approved nation countries are permitted one-month visa-free visits. If planning a longer stay, a Tourist Visa valid for 60 days must be obtained from a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate abroad and 90 day non immigrant Visas are also available Visa extensions can be applied for at the Immigration Department in Bangkok. Currency : The Baht is the local currency. Most foreign currencies and travelers cheques are easily changed at the hotel's cashier desk, or at banks. All major credit cards are widely accepted throughout the Kingdom. Dress : Light clothing is suitable for the summer and rainy season. It is more respectful to wear less casual clothes before entering temples or the palace. Formal dress is appropriate for business occasions, and required in a few restaurants and nightclubs. Electricity :The electric system is 220 Volt AC (50 cycles). There are plentiful plug sockets available, but travelers with shavers tape recorders and other appliances should carry a plug adapter kit. Taxes : VAT is refundable for "tourists only" at participating shops. (Subject to change without notice) Tipping : Tipping is not a usual practice in Thailand, although is becoming more common. Most hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. Please note that taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but the gesture is appreciated. Weather : We enjoy a tropical climate within 3 distinct seasons-hot from March towards May, wet from June to September, and cool from October through to February. The average annual temperature is 32 ํC (83 ํF), ranging in Bangkok from 35 ํC in April to 30 ํC in December. Shopping : The Royal River Hotel offers a complimentary shuttle boat service to the River City Shopping Complex, close to midtown shopping & business areas such as Patpong, Silom, MBK, Siam Square and the Workd Trade Centre. In addition, we offer a complimentary shuttle bus to the Central Pinklao Department Store. The Royal City Hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle bus to Pat Pong (Night market and entertainment area). Bargaining : Fixed prices are the norm in the department store, but at most other places bargaining is expected. Generally, you can obtain a final figure of between 10 - 40% lower than the original asking price. Much depends on your skills and the shopkeeper's mood, but remember that, good manner and a sense of humor is appreciated. With patience and a broad smile, you will not only get a better price but will also enjoy shopping as an art. Local Time : GMT plus 6 hours between March and October, and plus 7 hours between November and February