Population and Size of Country

Thailand, located in Southeast Asia, has a significantly larger population compared to Eritrea, which is situated in the Horn of Africa. As of recent estimates, Thailand’s population is approximately 70 million people, while Eritrea’s population is around 6 million. In terms of land area, Thailand covers approximately 513,120 square kilometers, making it much larger than Eritrea, which spans about 117,600 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand’s population is predominantly ethnic Thai, with significant minorities including Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. In contrast, Eritrea is ethnically diverse with nine recognized ethnic groups, including Tigrinya, Tigre, Saho, and Afar.

Religion

In Thailand, Buddhism is the dominant religion, practiced by about 95% of the population. There are also small communities of Muslims, Christians, and Hindus. Eritrea has a more evenly split religious demographic; approximately half of the population adheres to Christianity (mainly Eritrean Orthodox), while the other half practices Islam.

GDP

Thailand boasts a more developed economy with a GDP of around $543 billion USD as of recent estimates. Eritrea’s economy is much smaller and less developed, with a GDP estimated at approximately $2 billion USD.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. A significant portion of the population is over the age of 60. Eritrea has a much younger population, with a median age of about 19 years, and a large proportion of the population is under the age of 15.

Men vs Women

In Thailand, the gender ratio is fairly balanced but slightly skewed towards women due to higher life expectancy among females. Eritrea also has a relatively balanced gender ratio, though men slightly outnumber women due to factors such as military conscription.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is diverse, with major income sources including manufacturing (particularly automobiles and electronics), tourism, and agriculture (notably rice and rubber). Eritrea’s economy relies heavily on agriculture (subsistence farming), livestock, and mining (particularly gold and copper). Remittances from the diaspora also play a crucial role in Eritrea’s economy.

Violent Crime

Thailand generally experiences lower levels of violent crime compared to many other countries. Incidents such as armed robbery, assault, and homicide are relatively rare, especially in tourist areas. However, travelers should still exercise caution in less populated or poorly lit areas, particularly at night.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft can occur in crowded places such as markets, public transportation, and tourist attractions. It’s advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings to minimize the risk.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, often involving domestic disputes or personal relationships, do occur but are not typically directed towards tourists. These incidents are usually isolated and involve individuals who know each other well. Travelers are unlikely to be affected by such crimes.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers

Thailand is generally considered safe for solo women travelers. Many women travel alone without encountering significant issues. However, it is wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding deserted areas at night, not accepting drinks from strangers, and staying in reputable accommodations.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in Thailand is generally safe in well-populated and well-lit areas, particularly in cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and tourist hotspots like Phuket and Pattaya. However, caution should be exercised in less crowded or poorly lit areas, where the risk of encountering crime is higher.

Scamming

Scams are relatively common in Thailand, especially in tourist areas. Common scams include overcharging for goods and services, gem scams, and tuk-tuk or taxi drivers taking longer routes to increase fares. It’s advisable to agree on prices beforehand, use metered taxis, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.

Overall, while Thailand is relatively safe for travelers, being vigilant and taking standard safety precautions will help ensure a pleasant visit.

Travelers from Eritrea will find both familiar and new culinary experiences in Thailand. Both Thai and Eritrean cuisines emphasize the use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and a balance of flavors, though the specific ingredients and preparation methods differ.

In Eritrea, staple foods include injera (a type of flatbread), stews like tsebhi (spicy meat or vegetable stew), and lentil dishes. Similarly, Thai cuisine features rice and noodles as staples, often accompanied by a variety of curries and stir-fries.

Similarities in Food:

• Spices and Herbs: Both cuisines use a range of spices and herbs to create rich, aromatic flavors. While Eritrean dishes often feature berbere (a spice blend), Thai cuisine uses lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
• Stews and Curries: Eritrean stews like tsebhi parallel Thai curries such as green curry (gaeng keow wan) and red curry (gaeng daeng). Both are hearty, flavorful, and can be made with a variety of meats or vegetables.
• Vegetarian Options: Lentil-based dishes like Eritrean shiro can find their counterparts in Thai vegetarian dishes like pad pak (stir-fried vegetables) and tofu-based curries.

Types of Thai Food to Try:

• Tom Yum Goong: A hot and sour soup with shrimp, flavored with lemongrass, lime leaves, and chili. Its bold flavors might remind travelers of the spiciness found in Eritrean stews.
• Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu or shrimp, peanuts, bean sprouts, and lime. This dish offers a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors.
• Som Tum: A spicy green papaya salad that combines the crunchiness of fresh vegetables with the heat of chilies and the tanginess of lime juice.
• Massaman Curry: A milder curry that incorporates spices like cinnamon and cardamom, which may be reminiscent of some Eritrean spice blends.
• Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this dish pairs sweet mango with sticky rice cooked in coconut milk, offering a unique blend of textures and flavors.

Travelers will find that while the ingredients and specific dishes may differ, the shared emphasis on fresh, flavorful, and aromatic food creates a culinary bridge between Eritrea and Thailand.

Travelers from Eritrea to Thailand will encounter a rich tapestry of cultural differences that are important to navigate respectfully.

Making Friends

Thais are generally friendly and hospitable. A common greeting is the “wai,” where you place your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly. This is often accompanied by the phrase “Sawasdee” (hello). Smiling is a significant part of Thai culture, and it is often used to convey friendliness, politeness, and even to diffuse tension.

What to Do

Be polite and soft-spoken. Thais value humility and respectfulness. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. Always use your right hand or both hands when giving or receiving something, as the left hand is considered unclean.

What Not to Do

Avoid public displays of affection, which can be seen as inappropriate. Do not touch someone’s head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body. Pointing your feet at people or religious objects is also disrespectful. Avoid raising your voice or showing anger in public; Thais value “keeping face” and maintaining harmony.

Habits Not to Bring from Eritrea

In Eritrea, it might be common to speak loudly or show strong emotions publicly, but in Thailand, this could be perceived as rude or aggressive. Also, avoid direct confrontation; Thais prefer indirect communication to avoid conflict.

Deportment and Respect

Dress appropriately. For men, this means avoiding going shirtless, except at the beach. For women, it means avoiding overly revealing clothing. Show respect to the Thai Royal Family; speaking ill of the monarchy is a serious offense and could result in legal consequences.

Touching

Physical contact is less common in Thailand compared to Eritrea. Handshakes are not as common as in other cultures; a “wai” is preferred. Avoid touching people casually, especially strangers.

Religious Places

When visiting temples, dress modestly—long pants or skirts and covered shoulders are a must. Remove your shoes before entering temple buildings. Be respectful and quiet within these sacred spaces.

Public Presentation of Oneself

Maintain a calm and composed demeanor. Smiling is an important part of social interaction and can go a long way in making a good impression. Avoid showing negative emotions like anger or frustration in public.

Behavior on Public Transport

Public transport in Thailand can be crowded. Be patient and queue in an orderly fashion. Offer your seat to monks, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. Keep conversations quiet and avoid using your phone loudly.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “face” refers to one’s reputation, dignity, and social standing. Losing face can occur through public embarrassment, criticism, or showing strong negative emotions. Gaining face involves showing respect, humility, and maintaining harmonious relationships. Always strive to help others maintain face by being polite and considerate in your interactions.

By being mindful of these cultural differences, travelers from Eritrea can enjoy a more enriching and respectful experience in Thailand.

Bringing Phone from Eritrea

Ensure your phone is unlocked for international use. Thai mobile networks operate on GSM, so most modern smartphones should work. It’s advisable to check compatibility with Thai bands (850/900/1800/2100 MHz).

Internet Availability

Thailand offers widespread internet availability, with free Wi-Fi in many cafes, hotels, and public spaces. Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is recommended for better connectivity. Major providers like AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove offer tourist SIM packages with data plans.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are also widely used. Make sure to have these apps installed for seamless communication.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

• LINE: For messaging and local communication.
• Google Maps: Essential for navigation.
• Grab: For taxi and food delivery services.
• Klook: For booking tours and activities.
• XE Currency: For real-time currency conversion.

Currency

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s advisable to have some cash on hand for small purchases, especially in rural areas.

ATM Use

ATMs are widely available throughout Thailand. Most accept international cards but be aware of withdrawal fees. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the most reliable taxi app in Thailand, similar to Uber. It’s available in major cities and offers both car and motorbike taxi services.

Food Delivery

Food delivery services are popular, with GrabFood and Foodpanda being the leading apps. They offer a wide variety of local and international cuisine options.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping malls. However, smaller vendors and markets often only accept cash. Visa and MasterCard are more commonly accepted than American Express.

Shopping

Thailand offers a variety of shopping experiences, from luxury malls like Siam Paragon in Bangkok to bustling markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market. Always carry some cash for market shopping, but credit cards are accepted in most malls.

Trains

Thailand’s train network is extensive, with options ranging from local commuter trains to long-distance services like the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Booking in advance is recommended for long-distance travel.

Local Buses

Local buses are a cheap way to get around, though they can be confusing for non-Thai speakers. Routes are usually listed in Thai, so it may be helpful to have a translation app or ask locals for assistance.

This guide provides practical travel considerations for Eritrean travelers heading to Thailand, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Acceptance of Men from Eritrea

Thailand is generally welcoming to foreigners, including men from Eritrea. Thai people are known for their hospitality and friendliness, but it’s essential to be respectful of cultural differences and norms. While there may not be widespread familiarity with Eritrea, curiosity and interest can work in your favor.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Eritrea

Humor can break the ice. You could say, “I’m from a small country in Africa called Eritrea. It’s so exclusive, you’ve probably never heard of it!” or “Eritrea is like the hidden gem of Africa. You’ll have the coolest story among your friends for knowing someone from there!”

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiCupid. These platforms have large user bases and make it easier to meet local women.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Sawadee krap! I’m [Your Name]. I’m new here and would love to know more about Thailand from a local!”
• “Hi! I’m from Eritrea. Have you ever met someone from Africa before?”
• “Hello! What’s the best thing about living in Thailand?”

Teaching Thai Women About Eritrean Culture

When discussing Eritrean culture, you can mention traditional foods like injera, the coffee ceremony, and the importance of family. Sharing photos or short videos can make your explanations more engaging.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and casually. In Thailand, people appreciate good grooming and cleanliness. Make sure to shower regularly, use deodorant, and wear clean clothes. A smart casual look is often appreciated.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• Inconsistent stories or vague answers about their personal life.
• Requests for money or financial help.
• Reluctance to meet in person after chatting for a while.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

• Catfishing: Fake profiles using someone else’s photos.
• Financial scams: Asking for money for emergencies or travel expenses.
• Emotional manipulation: Quickly declaring love or pushing for a relationship.

Major Difference in Dating Between Eritrea and Thailand

Dating in Thailand can be more relaxed and less formal compared to the traditional, family-oriented approach in Eritrea. Public displays of affection are generally more accepted in Thailand.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Eritrean Women

Thai women may be more independent and career-focused, while Eritrean women often emphasize family and community ties. Additionally, Thai women might be more open to casual dating compared to the typically more serious approach in Eritrean culture.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a night market.
• Enjoying street food together.
• Exploring a temple or cultural site.
• Going to a coffee shop or café.
• Attending a local festival or event.

Red Light Districts

Areas like Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are well-known red light districts. These areas are popular with tourists but might not be ideal for forming genuine relationships.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Be cautious as some profiles on dating apps might be linked to prostitution. Signs include overly suggestive photos, quick moves towards sexual conversations, or requests for money.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Universities - Many universities have language exchange programs.
2. Coffee Shops - Popular spots for young professionals.
3. Night Markets - A social hub where locals hang out.
4. Gyms - Fitness centers are great places to meet health-conscious individuals.
5. Language Schools - Enroll in a Thai language class.
6. Cultural Festivals - Participate in local events and festivals.
7. Temples - Visiting temples can lead to meeting people interested in culture.
8. Parks - Places like Lumpini Park in Bangkok are popular for social activities.
9. Shopping Malls - CentralWorld or Siam Paragon are frequented by locals.
10. Volunteer Groups - Join local volunteer organizations to meet like-minded individuals.

By following these guidelines, Eritrean men can navigate the dating scene in Thailand more effectively and respectfully.

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

Extending your stay in Thailand as an Eritrean passport holder is a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps. Here’s a concise guide to help you through the extension procedure:

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Required Documents:

   • Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and has blank pages for stamps.
   • TM.7 Form: This is the application form for visa extension. You can download it online or get it at the Immigration Office.
   • Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent photos (4x6 cm).
   • Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or a letter from your host.
   • Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or cash equivalent to at least 20,000 THB for an individual or 40,000 THB for a family.
   • Visa Extension Fee: 1,900 THB (subject to change).

2. Visit the Immigration Office:

   • Locate the nearest Immigration Office. Major offices are in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya.
   • Arrive early to avoid long queues. Offices typically open around 8:30 AM.

3. Submit Your Application:

   • Fill out the TM.7 form accurately.
   • Attach your passport-sized photos to the form.
   • Provide all required documents to the immigration officer.
   • Pay the visa extension fee.

4. Undergo an Interview (if required):

   • Some applicants may be asked to provide additional information or undergo a brief interview. Be prepared to explain your reasons for extending your stay.

5. Wait for Processing:

   • The processing time can vary but usually takes a few hours. In some cases, you might be asked to return the next day.
   • Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the new visa extension date.

6. Confirm Extension Details:

   • Double-check the new expiry date on your visa stamp to ensure it matches the extension period granted.

Important Tips

• Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Apply at least a week before your current visa or exemption period expires.
• Dress Appropriately: Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the Immigration Office.
• Keep Copies: Make copies of all documents submitted, including your passport and visa extension form.

Additional Extensions

If you need another extension beyond the initial one, you may need to leave Thailand and re-enter, possibly through a neighboring country. Alternatively, consult with an immigration lawyer or service for further assistance.

By following these steps and preparing adequately, you can successfully extend your Thai tourist visa or visa exemption and enjoy your stay in Thailand without any hassles.