How to Call Thailand From the United States: A Complete Guide
Calling internationally can seem daunting, but with the right information, connecting with friends, family, or business partners in Thailand from the United States is simple and straightforward. This comprehensive guide provides you with everything you need to know, from understanding international dialing codes to exploring cost-effective calling options.
## Understanding the Basics: Country Codes and Exit Codes
Before you can dial any international number, you need to understand the necessary prefixes. Two critical components are the exit code (also called the international access code) and the country code.
* **Exit Code:** This code allows you to dial out of your current country. In the United States, the exit code is “011”. You dial “011” before any other digits when making an international call from the US.
* **Country Code:** This code identifies the country you are calling. The country code for Thailand is “66”.
So, the basic format for calling Thailand from the US is:
`011 + 66 + [Thai Phone Number]`
## Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Thailand
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps to follow when calling a Thai phone number from the United States:
1. **Dial the Exit Code:** Begin by dialing “011”. This tells your phone carrier that you are making an international call.
2. **Dial the Country Code:** Next, dial “66”, the country code for Thailand. This directs your call to the Thai telephone network.
3. **Dial the Area Code (if applicable) or Mobile Code:** Thailand utilizes area codes for landlines, similar to the US. Mobile numbers don’t use area codes, but begin with a digit indicating the mobile network. Omit the leading ‘0’ of the Thai area code or mobile code when dialing from abroad. For example, if the Thai number is (02) XXX-XXXX (Bangkok landline), you would dial ‘2’ after the country code. For a mobile number such as 08X-XXX-XXXX, you would dial ‘8X’ after the country code.
4. **Dial the Local Number:** Finally, dial the remaining digits of the Thai phone number. This is the specific number of the person or business you are trying to reach.
**Example:**
Let’s say you want to call a landline number in Bangkok, Thailand. The Thai number is (02) 123-4567. To call this number from the US, you would dial:
`011 + 66 + 2 + 1234567`
If you want to call a Thai mobile number 081-234-5678, you would dial:
`011 + 66 + 81 + 2345678`
## Understanding Thai Phone Number Formats
Thai phone numbers can vary in length depending on whether they are landlines or mobile numbers. Understanding these formats will help you dial correctly.
* **Landline Numbers:** Thai landline numbers typically consist of a two-digit area code followed by a seven-digit local number. The total length is nine digits (excluding the leading ‘0’). Area codes are used to identify specific regions within Thailand.
* **Mobile Numbers:** Thai mobile numbers are nine digits long (excluding the leading ‘0’), starting with ‘6’, ‘8’, or ‘9’, followed by eight digits. The first digit after the ‘0’ indicates the mobile network the number belongs to.
**Important Note:** When dialing from outside Thailand, always omit the leading ‘0’ from the area code or mobile code.
## Common Area Codes in Thailand
Here’s a list of some common area codes in Thailand. Remember to drop the leading ‘0’ when dialing from the US:
* **Bangkok:** 2
* **Chiang Mai:** 53
* **Phuket:** 76
* **Khon Kaen:** 43
* **Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat):** 44
* **Udon Thani:** 42
* **Songkhla (Hat Yai):** 74
## Cost-Effective Calling Options
Calling internationally can be expensive, but several options can help you reduce the cost of calling Thailand from the US.
1. **International Calling Plans:** Many mobile carriers, such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, offer international calling plans that provide discounted rates for calls to specific countries, including Thailand. These plans typically involve a monthly fee and offer a certain number of minutes or discounted rates per minute. Check with your carrier to see what international calling plans they offer and compare the costs to your calling needs.
* **Pros:** Convenient, potentially lower per-minute rates, often bundled with other services.
* **Cons:** Monthly fees, usage limits, may not be the cheapest option for infrequent calls.
2. **Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services:** VoIP services like Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, Viber, and others allow you to make calls over the internet. These services often offer significantly lower rates for international calls compared to traditional phone carriers. Some VoIP services require both the caller and the recipient to use the same app, while others allow you to call regular phone numbers.
* **Skype:** Skype is a popular VoIP service that allows you to call landlines and mobile phones internationally at competitive rates. You can purchase Skype Credit or subscribe to a monthly calling plan. Skype also allows for video calls, which can be a great way to connect with loved ones.
* **Google Voice:** Google Voice offers free calls to the US and Canada and relatively low rates for international calls. You need a Google account to use Google Voice. It allows calls to be made from a computer or mobile device.
* **WhatsApp:** WhatsApp primarily allows voice and video calls between users of the app. If the person you’re calling in Thailand also uses WhatsApp, this is a completely free option (using Wi-Fi or mobile data).
* **Viber:** Similar to WhatsApp, Viber allows free calls and messages between Viber users and paid calls to mobile and landline numbers.
* **Pros:** Often the cheapest option, especially for frequent calls, flexible usage, additional features like video calling and messaging.
* **Cons:** Requires a stable internet connection, call quality depends on internet speed, may require both parties to use the same app.
3. **Prepaid Calling Cards:** Prepaid calling cards are another option for making affordable international calls. You can purchase these cards online or at retail stores. Each card has a specific value and a PIN. When you want to make a call, you dial the access number on the card, enter the PIN, and then dial the international number.
* **Pros:** No monthly fees, control over spending, widely available.
* **Cons:** Can be confusing to use, per-minute rates can be higher than VoIP services, may have hidden fees or expiration dates.
4. **Mobile Apps for International Calls:** Numerous mobile apps are designed specifically for international calls, offering competitive rates and user-friendly interfaces. Examples include: Vonage Mobile, Rebtel, and more. These apps often use VoIP technology to reduce costs.
* **Pros:** Convenient, mobile-friendly, often offer special deals and promotions.
* **Cons:** Requires a smartphone and internet connection, call quality depends on internet speed.
5. **International Roaming:** While technically an option, using your existing mobile plan with international roaming is generally the most expensive way to call Thailand. Roaming charges can be extremely high, and it’s best to avoid this option unless absolutely necessary. If you must use roaming, check with your carrier about their international roaming rates and any available add-ons or travel passes to reduce costs.
* **Pros:** No need to change your phone number or service.
* **Cons:** Extremely expensive, unpredictable costs, potential for bill shock.
## Tips for Saving Money on International Calls
Here are some additional tips to help you save money when calling Thailand from the US:
* **Call During Off-Peak Hours:** Some phone companies offer lower rates during off-peak hours. Check with your carrier to see if they have any discounted rates for international calls during specific times.
* **Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible:** When using VoIP services, connect to Wi-Fi instead of using your mobile data to avoid data charges.
* **Limit Call Duration:** Be mindful of the time you spend on each call to avoid exceeding your plan’s limits or incurring extra charges.
* **Compare Rates and Plans:** Before committing to a specific calling plan or service, compare rates from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
* **Inform the Recipient:** Advise the person you are calling in Thailand about the best way to reach them. Perhaps they can call you back using a cheaper method.
## Troubleshooting Common Calling Issues
If you encounter problems when calling Thailand, here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:
* **Incorrect Dialing:** Double-check that you are dialing the correct exit code, country code, area code (if applicable), and local number. Even a small error in the dialing sequence can prevent the call from going through.
* **Blocked Calls:** Your phone company may have blocked international calls by default. Contact your carrier to ensure that international calling is enabled on your account.
* **Poor Call Quality:** Poor call quality can be caused by a weak internet connection (for VoIP calls) or network congestion. Try moving to a location with a stronger signal or waiting until a less busy time to make the call.
* **Calling Card Issues:** If you’re using a prepaid calling card, ensure that you have enough credit on the card and that the card is not expired. Follow the instructions on the card carefully.
* **Technical Problems:** Occasionally, technical problems on either end of the call can prevent it from connecting. Try again later or contact your phone company for assistance.
## Things to Consider Before You Call
Before placing that call to Thailand, keep the following considerations in mind:
* **Time Zone Difference:** Thailand operates on Indochina Time (ICT), which is GMT+7. This means Thailand is usually 12 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the US. Be mindful of the time difference to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. For example, a 9:00 AM call in New York is 9:00 PM in Thailand.
* **Language Barriers:** While many Thais, especially in tourist areas, speak some English, it’s helpful to know some basic Thai phrases or have a translation app handy if you’re communicating with someone who doesn’t speak English.
* **Cultural Sensitivity:** Be aware of Thai customs and etiquette. For example, it’s considered impolite to speak loudly in public or to point your feet at someone. Dress modestly if you are video calling.
* **Emergency Numbers:** In case of an emergency in Thailand, the emergency number is 191 for the police, 1669 for medical emergencies, and 199 for fire.
## Alternatives to Calling
Besides direct phone calls, several other communication methods can help you stay connected with people in Thailand:
* **Messaging Apps:** Apps like WhatsApp, Line (very popular in Thailand), Facebook Messenger, and WeChat allow you to send text messages, photos, and videos for free over the internet.
* **Email:** Email is a reliable way to communicate, especially for formal or non-urgent matters.
* **Video Conferencing:** Video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype allow you to have face-to-face conversations with multiple people at once.
* **Social Media:** Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can help you stay updated on what’s happening in people’s lives.
## Conclusion
Calling Thailand from the United States doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By understanding the dialing codes, exploring cost-effective calling options, and following the tips in this guide, you can easily connect with friends, family, or business associates in Thailand. Remember to consider the time difference, language barriers, and cultural sensitivities to ensure a smooth and pleasant conversation. Whether you choose an international calling plan, a VoIP service, or a prepaid calling card, you can find a solution that fits your needs and budget. Happy calling!