Expats
Thailand expat news, visas, work permits, property, and healthcare—stay informed with essential updates and insights for foreign residents. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for expat news in Thailand.
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Thailand’s September sizzle: Festivals, art, sports, and much more
A vibrant array of festivals and events await visitors in Thailand this September. The calendar is packed with religious festivities, art and craft exhibitions, and a variety of sports events. Among these, the Tenth Lunar Month Festival, Ko Lae Boat Racing, Long-boat Racing, Cross-Region Travel Fair, and several marathons and half marathons stand out as key events, promising an exciting…
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Plea for flight: Provincial governor urges reconsideration after Thai Smile route closure
Thai Smile’s decision to discontinue flights from Suvarnabhumi International Airport to Surat Thani Airport, beginning October 1, has led provincial governor, Witchawut Jinto, to appeal for a reversal. Jinto submitted a formal letter to Thai Smile, an affiliate of Thai Airways, requesting the continuation of the Suvarnabhumi-Surat Thani route. The governor expressed public discontent over Thai Smile’s plans, which are…
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Pattaya’s Walking Street gets facelift with removal of power poles
The renowned Walking Street in Pattaya has been given a contemporary makeover as unsightly power poles have been removed. The inspection of the upgraded tourist attraction was conducted by Mayor Poramase Ngampiches yesterday. Along with him, other city officials marked the successful completion of the major project, which involved the dismantling of utility poles on the street. Over the past…
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Traffy fondue: Phuket launches English app to assist foreigners
An English language-enabled version of the Traffy Fondue application has been launched by the provincial office of Phuket, Thailand. This platform has been developed to assist foreign visitors in airing their grievances about local environmental conditions and public services. The Phuket Governor, Narong Woonciew, announced yesterday that the application has been well-received by residents seeking an expedited resolution to common…
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Chinese resurgence transforms Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district into new Chinatown
Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district, home to a rising number of Chinese expatriates, is reinforcing its reputation as the city’s second Yaowarat or New Chinatown. The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in a temporary withdrawal of Chinese vendors from the district, but with the Chinese government deciding to lift border restrictions earlier this year, investors appear to be flocking back. The district’s pulse…
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Road of sorrow: Scottish man becomes latest victim of Thailand’s perilous roads
A sombre chapter was added to the tragic toll of Thailand’s perilous roads today, as a 48 year old Scottish man became yet another victim. The unfortunate incident unfolded when Robert Griffin, a shipping officer from Fife, lost control of his white Honda Click motorbike, resulting in a head-on collision with another motorcyclist in Krabi, a province in southern Thailand.…
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Magazine ranks Thailand 9th best retirement spot on Earth
Thailand secured its position as the world’s ninth-best retirement spot on International Living Magazine’s 2023 Annual Global Retirement Index. The index ranks countries based on their suitability for retirees, taking into account various factors including cost of living, cost of healthcare, cultural activities, and more. In the 2023 index, Thailand shares the spotlight with other popular retirement destinations such as Portugal,…
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Affordable and enriched living in Thailand attracts foreign investors
Thailand is making waves on the world stage with what International Living defines as its attractive blend of enriched living at pocket-friendly costs. The gem in the Thai living appeal seems to be the lucrative real estate sector where, as International Living puts it: “Foreigners are able to buy condos very easily and there are bargains everywhere.” Along with attractive…
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Russian tourist dies in tragic fall from a pagoda in Phuket
Phuket, an exhilarating hub of Thai culture and heritage, yesterday turned into a scene of panic and concern. An unidentified Russian male tourist tragically lost his life after falling from the roof of a pagoda at the notable Wat Chaithararam, commonly known as Wat Chalong, situated in the Mueang district of the island. The police were alerted around 5.30pm when…
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Koh Tao beach resort faces hefty fines and restoration orders on illegal structures and breaches
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) and related agencies investigated a Koh Tao beach resort following viral social media images, consequently presenting four charges and ordering a restoration to its former state. The establishment in question, located on the popular Koh Tao island in Surat Thani province, a touristic gem often referred to as Turtle Island, came under scrutiny…
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Brit in the buff brings chaos to Pattaya hotel: Unhinged nudist lands behind bars
An unhinged naked British man was taken into custody after causing chaos in a hotel in Pattaya. Police officers are investigating the unusual incident in an attempt to identify the source of the man’s unhinged behaviour. Pattaya Police Station’s Pol. Capt. Kittisuk Suthinitaswong was alerted about the embarrassing incident at exactly 4.30am today at the Centara Nova Hotel & Spa,…
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Unwrapped truth: Viral video of passenger cling-film wrapping three seats raises doubt (video)
The authenticity of a recent viral video showing a female passenger using cling film wrap to create a makeshift bed across three economy seats is being questioned by netizens. The video, which has garnered 3.8 million views on TikTok, depicts the passenger diligently enclosing the space of the three seats she presumably booked using cling wrap. In the video taken…
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Stepping for a cause: Brit expat’s 1,050km stroll from Pattaya to Phuket raises 1 million baht for abused children
British expat James Lee Valentine demonstrated the power of determination and charity by completing a 1,050 kilometre walk from Pattaya to Phuket in Thailand. The walk aimed to raise 1 million baht for Take Care Kids, a children’s foundation based in Pattaya that supports underprivileged children who have suffered abuse. The 59 year old, who has two children himself, was…
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Regional guide: Teaching English in Phuket
So, you want to live in paradise with an added bonus? We’re talking about Phuket, a dreamy tropical oasis in southern Thailand, replete with sun-kissed beaches, legendary street food, and stunning temples. As if this wasn’t fantastic enough, imagine immersing yourself in the local community, making a difference in the lives of others, and quite possibly changing your LinkedIn header…
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Aussie tourists support Pattaya restaurant owner after dine-and-dash incident
A heartwarming turn of events unfolded as a group of friends came together to support a local restaurant owner who had previously experienced an unfortunate incident in Pattaya, Thailand. The owner, Jinwara Rebedef, had recently fallen victim to a dine-and-dash customer at his Kin Kab Kia restaurant on Thepprasit Road. The story (read HERE) caught the attention of Paul Kinsey…
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Thai hospital misdiagnoses man’s gallstone condition, quick intervention saves health
A 42 year old expatriate named Nick reached out for help on May 21 after being discharged from the hospital without a clear diagnosis of his abdominal pain. He had been experiencing discomfort in his right lower abdomen and an ache in his left lower chest that radiated into his back and upper abdomen. Nick had been unwell for two…
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Man discovers his 17 year old twins aren’t his, DNA test reveals wife’s cheating
A man was left stunned after discovering that his wife cheated on him and that the twins he had raised for 17 years were not his children after they took a random DNA test. The unnamed American man immediately realised that his wife had cheated on him when news of the DNA test was revealed. He shared the story on…
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What are the visa options for digital nomads in Thailand
The digital nomad visa in Thailand is a popular choice for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who want to live and work in this beautiful and welcoming country. While Thailand does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa programme, individuals can explore alternative visa types to suit their remote work and travel needs. With the digital nomad visa in Thailand,…
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Regional guide: Teaching English in Chiang Mai
Teaching English in Chiang Mai offers a unique and rewarding opportunity for language educators seeking to experience the rich culture and natural beauty of northern Thailand. Compared to Bangkok, finding job opportunities in Chiang Mai might be slightly more challenging, and salaries could be around 30% lower. However, the relaxed atmosphere in Chiang Mai compensates for these drawbacks. You might…
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Activities for retirees to stay active and enjoy life
Activities for retirees in Thailand offer a vibrant and diverse social life, allowing individuals to enjoy their golden years to the fullest. From engaging in leisurely pursuits to exploring the rich culture and stunning landscapes, retirees in Thailand can find numerous ways to stay active, healthy, and socially connected. Top Activities for Retirees in Thailand Practice a sport Starting a…
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Non-immigrant visa in Thailand: Your ultimate guide
A non-immigrant visa in Thailand is a crucial document for individuals who wish to stay in the country for an extended period without seeking permanent residency. This type of visa caters to various purposes, such as business, education, marriage, and retirement, allowing foreigners to reside in the country while they engage in their respective activities. The non-immigrant visa in Thailand…
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Asoke Bangkok: Thailand neighbourhood guide 2023
Asoke Bangkok, located in the heart of Thailand’s vibrant capital city, is an area that offers the best of both worlds – a perfect blend of modern urban life and traditional Thai culture. Known for its bustling commercial district and lively nightlife, Asoke is a popular destination for locals and ex-pats alike, offering an array of shopping centers, entertainment venues,…
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Thai marriage visa: A guide to love and legalities
Navigating the complexities of a Thai marriage visa can be daunting, especially when it’s intertwined with the joy and stress of planning a wedding. For couples from different countries, securing a marriage visa is a crucial step towards building a life together. Understanding the requirements and processes involved can significantly ease the journey. A Thai marriage visa allows a foreign…
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Your guide to a visa run in Thailand
Visa run in Thailand refers to the practice of leaving the country temporarily in order to reset or renew one’s visa or extend their permitted stay in the country. This is often done by foreign tourists, ex-pats, or digital nomads who wish to stay in Thailand for a longer period than their visa or visa exemption allows. Typically, a visa…
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A practical guide to obtaining Permanent Residence in Thailand
Considering permanent residence in Thailand as a gateway to a life free of visa hassles? Permanent Residence in Thailand refers to the legal status that permits foreign nationals to reside in the country without the need for constant visa renewals or work permit applications. It is the first step towards a more stable and long-term stay in Thailand for those…
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Visa extension in Thailand
Visa extension in Thailand is a process that allows foreign nationals to prolong their stay in the country beyond the initial duration granted by their visa. Whether you are a tourist wanting to explore more of Thailand’s beautiful destinations, a business traveller needing extra time for work commitments, or an expatriate planning to reside in the country for an extended…
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British tourist miraculously survives near-fatal swimming mishap off Pattaya coast
Video footage and photographs have emerged of a British tourist who came close to losing his life while swimming off the coast of Pattaya last month. The tourist, who remains unidentified, got into trouble while swimming and was able to make his way to a buoy, where he was eventually rescued by a passing fisherman in his boat. The young…
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Tourist visa in Thailand: Your ultimate guide
Dreaming of exploring the vibrant streets of Bangkok or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Phuket? Then obtaining a tourist visa in Thailand is your golden ticket to this enchanting Southeast Asian paradise. The Thai tourist visa grants visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s rich history, savour its world-famous cuisine, and engage with the friendly, warm-hearted locals.…
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Discover dreamy treehouse resorts in Thailand
If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous way to experience Thailand, why not consider staying in one of the country’s dreamy treehouse hotels? These treehouse resorts in Thailand offer guests an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the luxuries and comforts of a high-end resort. Nestled high up in the treetops, these treehouses provide breathtaking…
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Pattaya motorcycle taxi rider threatens to kill 2 foreigners over fare dispute
Pattaya Police yesterday arrested a Thai motorcycle taxi rider after he turned into a knife-wielding thug after a row with two foreign passengers over fare prices. According to reports, the taxi driver threatened to kill both foreigners during the altercation. The incident kicked off on Pattaya Second Road near Soi 6/1 early yesterday evening. Pattaya Police received a call about…
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