What is BTC'25?

BTC'25 (Better Together Converge 2025) is the premier annual leadership event hosted by Free Methodist World Missions – Asia Area. It brings together Free Methodist Church leaders across Asia for a time of vision casting, equipping, encouragement, and collaboration — all for the glory of God and the expansion of His Kingdom.

What is the theme of BTC'25?

This year’s BTC is not just regional, but global — bringing together leaders from across Asia and around the world. As members of the body of Christ, bound together by love, we are committed to biblical interdependence — with a shared identity and a shared mission. We have a bias toward action which propels a new shared acceleration toward our goal of influencing a million toward Jesus. We help one another, stimulating a shared sustainability… until we all reach the goal of our shared destiny in the Father’s great Kingdom.

Together, we move as one — from Asia and beyond — for the glory of God.

Who can attend?

Key leaders of the Free Methodist Church across Asia (and globally) are invited. This event is for those seeking missional vision, leadership development, and opportunities for Kingdom collaboration.

Which hotels are officially provided?

Participants will be housed at one of four official BTC hotels:

• Centara Riverside Hotel (main venue)

  • Address: 318/1 Chiang Mai-Lamphun Rd, Wat Kate, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50000

• Riverside House Hotel

  • Address: 101 Chiangmai – Lumphun RD., T. Watkate, A. Muang, Chiang Mai 50000

• Mawin Hotel

  • Address: 111-113 Chiangmai-Lamphun Rd, Wat Gate, Muang, Chiang Mai 55000

• i-River Chiang Mai

  • Address: 28 Chiang Mai-Lam Phun Rd, Tambon, Wat Ket, Chiang Mai Province, 50000

How are hotels assigned?

Assignments are not based on region or nationality. Hotel placement will be confirmed and sent out closer to the event.

Can I extend my stay?

BTC has reserved your room from the afternoon of October 31 until the morning of November 4 only. If you wish to arrive earlier or stay later, you must notify us in advance. We can help coordinate with the hotel, but you will pay the hotel directly for those additional nights.

What are the official check-in and check-out dates?

• Check-in: October 31 (Friday afternoon)

• Check-out: November 4 (Tuesday morning)

Early check-in / late check-out?

• Early check-in is not guaranteed and depends on hotel availability.

• No late check-out is provided by BTC. If needed, you must arrange with your hotel’s reception and pay personally.

What should I do when I arrive at Chiang Mai Airport?

Depending on your itinerary, you may clear immigration in Bangkok (arriving at Chiang Mai’s domestic terminal) or directly in Chiang Mai (arriving at the international terminal).

• After collecting your luggage, look for someone holding a sign with the BTC’25 logo.

• If you do not see a BTC sign, do not exit the airport. Instead, go to the Starbucks coffee shop on the domestic side, where our team will meet you.

• The BTC Welcome Team will guide you to your hotel.

Is airport transfer included?

• Yes: Airport pickup on October 31 (Chiang Mai International Airport → hotel).

• No: Airport drop-off on November 4 is not included. Hotels can arrange this or you can book a Grab or Bolt (~$7 per trip).

Is there free Wi-Fi at the airport?

Yes. Chiang Mai International Airport provides free Wi-Fi. You can send a message in our BTC’25 Signal Group Chat when you arrive.

👉 If you have not yet joined the Signal group, click here: BTC’25 Signal Group.

Where can I buy a SIM card or eSIM for my phone?

You have several options for mobile data in Thailand:

• Physical SIM cards

  • Available at Chiang Mai Airport (passport required for purchase).

  • Also available at shops across the city, not just at the airport.

  • Details on SIM card options and pricing: Thailand SIM Card Plans.

• eSIM (digital SIM)

  • Can be purchased before arrival and activated immediately upon landing.

  • Trip.com: Thailand eSIM – High Speed Internet

  • Klook: Thailand eSIM – QR Code Voucher

Where can I find more travel information about Thailand?

You can check updates and guidelines here: Thailand Travel Information.

Where will BTC’25 sessions take place?

All sessions will take place at Centara Riverside Hotel, Chiang Mai.

When will BTC’25 begin and end?

• The first official session begins on the morning of Saturday, November 1.

• The final session will end by the afternoon of Monday, November 3.

A detailed schedule will be shared closer to the event.

Will there be a cultural event?

Yes. During the Opening Ceremony on November 1, participants are invited to wear their traditional or national attire. You may also prepare a 2–3 minute cultural presentation (song, dance, or special element from your culture). If you plan to present, please inform us in advance by emailing fmc4asia@gmail.com.

Will translation be available?

Yes. Translation will be provided via Zoom. Participants must bring:

• A smartphone with Zoom already installed

• Personal headset/earphones

Do I need to book my own flights?

Yes. Participants are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Chiang Mai, Thailand. Once you have booked, submit your details here: BTC’25 Flight Details.

What local transportation will BTC provide?

• BTC will provide hotel–venue shuttle service each day for those not staying at Centara Riverside.

• Airport pickup on October 31 is included.

• Airport drop-off on November 4 is NOT included.

• Any additional transportation in Chiang Mai (to dinner, sightseeing, excursions) is on your own cost.

How can I get around Chiang Mai outside BTC?

• Download Grab or Bolt (Thailand’s version of Uber) for easy rides.

• TukTuks (motorized rickshaws) are also available and a fun local experience (cash only).

• Always carry Thai Baht for local rides and food.

Which meals are included?

• Breakfast (served at your hotel)

• Lunch and snacks (served at Centara Riverside)

Which meals are not included?

• Dinners are not included. Participants are encouraged to explore Chiang Mai and fellowship together over dinner outside the venue. Average cost is ~$10 per meal.

🛂 Visa & Entry Requirements

Will BTC issue invitation letters for visas?

Yes. You can request one here: BTC Invitation Letter Form.

Thailand entry requirements

• Visa-free entry (up to 60 days): Citizens of 93 countries (US, Canada, UK, EU, etc.)

• Tourist Visa or e-Visa: Required for other nationalities. Find out here if you need a tourist visa: thaievisa.go.th

• Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Starting June 2025, even visa-free travelers must apply in advance

Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

• Must be submitted within 72 hours before arrival

• Apply online: tdac.immigration.go.th

• Free of charge

• Requires passport, flight, and hotel details

Upon arrival in Thailand

• Passport must be valid at least 6 months

• Proof of onward travel may be requested

• Travel insurance is recommended

What is the BTC’25 registration fee?

If you haven’t paid yet. The registration fee is USD $375.

How do I pay?

• Online via LoveAsia Fund

• Or in USD cash upon arrival

What costs are covered by BTC?

• 4 nights hotel (October 31–November 4)

• Breakfast, lunch, and snacks during sessions

• Airport pickup on October 31

• Daily hotel–venue transport (if needed)

• Conference sessions and materials

What costs are not covered?

• Flights to/from Chiang Mai

• Dinners (approx. $10/meal)

• Local transport outside program (approx. $5/trip)

• Airport drop-off on Nov 4 (approx. $7/trip)

• Excursions/optional activities (approx. $20/person)

Currency Exchange & ATMs

• The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB).

• It is not recommended to exchange money at the airport, as rates are poor. Better rates are available in Chiang Mai city.

• ATMs are widely available and allow you to withdraw Baht using your card, but note:

  • Thai banks usually charge a 220 THB (~$6 USD) withdrawal fee in addition to your home bank’s fees.

  • Inform your bank before traveling to avoid blocked cards.

• Carry a mix of cash (USD/THB) and cards. Always have some Baht on hand for taxis, TukTuks, and small purchases.

What should I wear during BTC’25?

• Wear modest and culturally respectful clothing.

• Avoid tank tops and short shorts during formal sessions.

• National/cultural attire encouraged for the Opening Ceremony.

• Weather in Chiang Mai in November: 20–30°C (70–85°F).

• Hotel and venue meeting rooms are air-conditioned — bring a jacket, scarf, or shawl for comfort indoors.

Are there cultural considerations I should keep in mind?

Yes. Thailand is an honor-shame-based culture. Please be mindful to show respect to our hosts and bring honor to the Lord through your actions.

• Dress modestly (no tank tops; shorts only in casual settings).

• Use a slightly softer tone of voice than average for the US.

• Limit physical contact except with those you know well.

• Observe and follow the lead of Thai nationals in social settings.

Will participants have ID?

Yes. All participants will receive official BTC lanyards. These must be worn at all times during the event.

Are there guidelines for photos or live streaming?

• Be mindful of others’ privacy when taking photos or videos, especially for those wearing red name tags and lanyards — they must not be photographed or recorded.

• Individual live streaming is NOT permitted.

Where can I watch the official livestream?

• BTC sessions will be live streamed via the FMC Asia Private Facebook Group.

• If you are not a member, email fmc4asia@gmail.com for access.

• Also, a livestream link will be emailed to all participants shortly before the event. You may share it with peers who want to attend BTC but cannot join this year, but please do not post the link publicly.

To make sure you are fully prepared, please bring:

• Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond entry date)

• Visa or ETA (if applicable)

• TDAC confirmation (required within 72 hrs before arrival)

• National attire (for Opening Ceremony)

• Jacket/sweater/scarf for AC meeting rooms

• Smartphone with Zoom app installed

• Headset/earphones for translation access

• Travel adapter (Thailand uses Type C/F, 220V)

• Personal medications, vitamins, and any necessary medical documentation

• Travel insurance documents (highly recommended)

• Local currency (Thai Baht) and/or ATM card

• Emergency contacts saved in your phone

For any questions about BTC’25:

📧 Email us at fmc4asia@gmail.com

💬 Ask Asia – the BTC’25 AI Agent (bottom-right of the screen) for quick answers. Asia can also respond in different languages — just let her know which language you prefer.

Don’t miss out on real-time updates—join our group chat:

👉🏻 Join Signal Group Chat