Know the Codes for International Calls
In order to place an international call from Thailand to another country you will need to know the country's routing code or country code, as well as the city prefix code. Dial 001, followed by the country code, then the city code (in the U.S. this is the area code), then the actual telephone number.
If you are having trouble making the call contact you can speak with an English speaking operator. If you are inside of Bangkok dial 13 for an English speaking operator; outside of Bankok dial 183.
Buy a SIM card for Thailand
If you have an unlocked GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) cell phone, consider purchasing an International SIM card that will give you a Thai cellular number and the ability to make calls easily at local rates. The use of SIM cards and GSM is widespread across Asia. These cards offered pre-paid minute plans for making international calls at reasonable rates.
Voice Over IP
If you are traveling with a laptop and can get an Internet connection, simply download free voIP software from a site like Skype. VoIP allows you to make calls from your PC to both landlines and mobile phones using phone credits you can purchase online. Prior to traveling to Thailand have your friends and loved ones download Skype to their PCs and talk PC to PC for free. According to one site during Thailand's 2006 coup, the phone system was down for weeks, while Skype worked the entire time.
