Tourism News
Thailand tourism news, travel updates, visa policies, and destination highlights—stay informed on hospitality trends, cultural experiences, and major infrastructure projects. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for Thailand travel news.
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Sponsored 10 biggest challenges retirees face in Thailand (and how to overcome them)
Retiring in Thailand comes with many benefits, like warm weather, affordable living, and a rich culture. However, it also brings challenges. Retirees must deal with visa rules, healthcare costs, language barriers, and cultural differences. Rising medical expenses, required insurance, and...
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Thailand’s economy shifts into gear but auto industry hits a bump
Thailand’s economy is on a cautious upswing, buoyed by a surge in exports, a bustling tourism sector, and healthier private consumption. Yet, the road ahead isn’t entirely smooth, with the automotive industry hitting a bump. The Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) has laid bare the mixed fortunes in its recent October economic report, painting a picture of resilience tinged with challenges.…
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Koh Samui’s ferry pier gets a much-needed makeover
After a year of soaking rains and blistering sun, travellers at Koh Samui’s main ferry pier can finally say goodbye to their weather woes. The Nathon Pier is getting its roofs back and relief for passengers is just days away. Narobb Tuaycharoen, a member of Nakhon Samui’s municipal council, confirmed today, November 28, that workers had started installing metal sheets on…
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Golden glory: Lopburi’s sunflower fields spark tourism boom
Lopburi province is turning heads as its stunning sunflower fields burst into full bloom, creating a jaw-dropping golden carpet framed by dramatic mountain peaks and vivid blue skies. Tourists are flocking to this seasonal wonderland, capturing dreamy photos and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. The crown jewel is a 75-rai (12-hectare) sunflower field in the Manao Wan subdistrict, owned by…
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AOT confirms facial recognition for international flights
Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) yesterday announced that the state-owned enterprise will implement facial recognition services at six major airports for international flights starting December 1. The biometrics-based system will be deployed at Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Don Mueang, Hat Yai, Phuket, and Suvarnabhumi airports. AOT anticipates the new technology will significantly streamline the passenger experience, reducing checkpoint processing time…
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Loan clouds gather: Thailand’s tourism faces a credit crunch storm
Thailand’s domestic tourism scene is facing stormy weather as concerns mount over rising consumer loans and mortgage defaults, industry insiders reveal. These financial headaches are casting doubts on whether short-term festival and event promos can still work their magic. The latest report from the National Economic and Social Development Council waved a red flag, revealing a troubling uptick in personal…
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Pattaya shoppers flock to market for cold-weather bargains
As a cool breeze swept through South Pattaya, the Grand Hall Market became the city’s ultimate winter shopping hotspot. Thai locals and tourists descended on the bustling marketplace yesterday, November 26, hunting for budget-friendly winter gear as the region braced for the season’s chillier days. With the winter season officially announced by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), a strengthening northeastern…
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Pattaya thief steals gold ring and cash from Swedish man
A late-night walk turned into a costly escapade for a Swedish holidaymaker in Pattaya when a brazen thief made off with valuables worth 42,000 baht. The tourist from Sweden, 65 year old Lars Reikwike, reported the theft to police around 3.30am today, November 27, near Pattaya City 8 School. According to Reikwike, a stranger approached him and managed to swipe…
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Thailand tourism soars with 28% rise in flight bookings
A notable surge in flight bookings and a 28% increase in ticket reservations to Thailand compared to the previous year indicate a robust upward trend. Key visitor sources include Germany, South Korea, the UK, the United States, Japan, and Russia. Towards the end of this year, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) anticipates an influx of up to 500,000 foreign…
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Chiang Mai elephant sanctuary wins 2024 Travellers’ Choice Award
In a big win for ethical tourism, the Elephant Freedom Project in Chiang Mai has been honoured with the prestigious Travellers’ Choice Award for 2024 by TripAdvisor. This recognition places the sanctuary among the top-rated destinations in Chiang Mai, celebrating its commitment to conservation, education, and the welfare of Thailand’s beloved elephants. Siriporn Tanaseth, founder of the sanctuary, said they…
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Nakhon Ratchasima camping site closes after park authority order
Rai Ruay Rin, a renowned camping site in Wang Nam Khiao, Nakhon Ratchasima province, announced its immediate closure following an order from national park officials. This news has saddened many camping enthusiasts who frequented the site for its stunning green landscapes just a few hours from Bangkok. The unexpected announcement was shared through a TikTok post on the account @rairuayrin,…
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Khao San Road festive bookings hit a European slump (video)
The famed Khao San Road, once a bustling hub of backpacker activity in Bangkok, finds itself facing a slowdown in hotel bookings as the festive season approaches. According to Khaosan Business Association President Sanga Ruangwattanakul, reservations for the key dates of December 30 to December 31 have slumped to around 60%, down from 70% the previous year. This downturn is…
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ASEAN airlines soars with regional stopover rights in 2025
Southeast Asian airlines will soon have the freedom to make multiple stops within ASEAN member states, marking a significant shift from current regulations that only permit direct return flights between destinations. Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that this change will be implemented once all ASEAN member states sign Protocol 5 on Own Stopover Rights. Loke explained in a press…
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Thrive in Thailand: Practical tips for self-improvement and wellbeing
Living in Thailand perfectly balances personal development and physical and mental well-being. The country encourages relaxation and growth, from its tranquil beaches to vibrating cities. Thailand isn’t just about new landscapes. It also comes with experiences designed to help you mentally and physically. This environment promotes self-improvement, Whether it’s about yoga, mindfulness practices, or an emphasis on natural healing. In…
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Fields of flower: Tourists flock to see Phayao’s sunn hemp
A vibrant field of sunn hemp, spread across 5 rai in front of the Phayao Agricultural and Technology College, has become a popular photography spot for tourists, coinciding with the winter season. This picturesque site, located in Mae Na Ruea subdistrict, Mueang district, Phayao province, is drawing attention with its radiant yellow hues. Prasert Phrompa, the Director of Phayao Agricultural…
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Purring gold: Chiang Mai’s golden tiger sparks a roaring sensation
Recent images of a golden tiger have captured public attention, with the adorable tiger from Chiang Mai Night Safari creating quite a buzz. Known for her glamorous appearance and strikingly soft fur, the tiger, Nong Ava, has become a favourite among animal lovers. The Chiang Mai Night Safari, renowned for its diverse range of wildlife, has unveiled the latest pictures…
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Daring climb: Belarusian tourist seriously injured in Phuket hotel fall
Early this morning, a 23 year old Belarusian tourist was rushed to Patong Hospital with two broken legs and other serious injuries after an attempt to climb up to her hotel room ended disastrously. Rescue workers and Patong Police arrived at the hotel on Nanai Road around 4am, today, November 22, to find the tourist conscious but clearly in agony,…
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British lawyer latest to fall in Laos alcohol poisoning tragedy
A British lawyer has become the latest fatality of alcoholic poisoning in Laos taking the death toll to five people. The chilling incident has sent shockwaves across the globe. The British lawyer Simone White is the tragic fifth victim in a series of suspected mass poisonings in Laos, Southeast Asia. A UK Foreign Office spokesperson grieved alongside her family, confirming…
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Bib Gourmand serves up a feast of flavour and value in Thailand
Michelin’s latest Bib Gourmand list is out, featuring 156 restaurants across Thailand that deliver exceptional quality and value. With 20 new entries in the prestigious Michelin Guide Thailand 2025, food lovers now have even more delectable choices, especially with the exciting addition of Chon Buri as a newly surveyed destination, said Gwendal Poullennec, Director of the Michelin Guides Worldwide. “This…
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Bangkok Airways employs French jets to support tourist surge
As Thailand’s tourist influx hits an all-time high, Bangkok Airways is scrambling to keep up, turning to France for reinforcements. In a bid to tackle its aircraft shortage, Bangkok Airways (PG, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi) has secured a wet-lease deal with French airline Amelia (8R, Paris Le Bourget), which will provide two Airbus narrowbody aircraft to support the Thai carrier’s operations over…
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Floating flavours: Uttaradit spiced up with ancient dish, raft parade
The northern Thai province of Uttaradit will host a festival featuring the traditional dish Oua Bak Phed Sai Pla (green pepper stuffed with fish), a recipe passed down for over 300 years, alongside a spectacular raft procession to celebrate local produce and waterways in Tron district. The annual festival, organised by the Uttaradit Provincial Cultural Office in collaboration with local…
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Phanom district grows kitchen gardens for food security boost
Local cuisine serves as a captivating cultural heritage, embodying the essence of each community. A new initiative in Phanom district in the southern province of Surat Thani embodies this spirit by utilising the vacant space in front of the district office to cultivate kitchen gardens, promoting food security. The District Chief of Phanom, Suchau Tumosik, in collaboration with local leaders…
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Thailand set to rock world stage with plans to boost events scene
Thailand is getting ready to rock the world stage with a grand plan to revitalise its events infrastructure, turning it into a prime destination for global sports and entertainment. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong outlined an ambitious vision to transform Bangkok’s National Stadium into a state-of-the-art multi-function stadium, poised to host everything from international sports competitions to blockbuster concerts.…
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Thai beauty influencer named first Phuket tourism ambassador
Thai social media influencer, Sasisom Phadungkingtrakul, also known as Mook, has made history as she takes on the role of the first-ever Phuket Tourism Ambassador of Thailand. The accolade, awarded by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) under the Amazing Thailand initiative, designates Sasisom as the island’s cultural and promotional representative until the end of 2025. The announcement was made…
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Tourists report smelly water at northern Thailand waterfall
Visitors to Phu Soi Dao National Park in northern Thailand are raising concerns over the origin of the water from the Sai Thip Waterfall. Reports of an unusual smell from the water have sparked debate and curiosity among tourists. Phu Soi Dao, covering areas in Nam Pat and Ban Khok districts in Uttaradit province, as well as Chat Trakan district in…
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Phuket goes green: Old town steps up for carbon-free tourism
Phuket Old Town took centre stage on Monday, November 18, as the Department of Tourism unveiled its bold initiative to promote low-carbon tourism routes, marking a milestone in sustainable travel for the 2024 fiscal year. Local leaders and media gathered for the showcase event in the historic heart of Phuket, which spotlighted eco-friendly travel practices and the charm of the…
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Phuket Festival returns to kickstart tourism season this December
Patong City Municipality officially announced the return of the annual Phuket Festival, set to take place from December 8 to 10, marking the kick off of the island’s bustling tourism season. The 38th Phuket Tourism Festival, themed Phuket Memories of a Lifetime, was revealed during a press event held on Patong Beach yesterday, November 19. The event was led by…
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Cheers to safety: Thailand’s plan to tackle alcohol-fuelled crashes
Thailand is ringing in the new year with a determined focus on safety, as Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin reveals a no-nonsense plan to tackle alcohol-fuelled road accidents during the festive celebrations. With the Christmas and new year season notorious for its spike in drink-related mishaps, the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee has rolled out four game-changing measures to keep partygoers…
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Cheers: Thai hotels to offer 24-hour alcohol service over new year
Hotel guests will soon enjoy the convenience of ordering alcoholic beverages to their rooms at any time over the new year period. This change, sanctioned by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, was announced following their recent meeting. Somsak Thepsutin, the Public Health Minister, led the approval for this adjustment, which allows hotel patrons unrestricted access to alcohol from in-house bars…
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Thailand airports to rival global top 20 within five years, says AoT
Thailand’s major airports are set for a significant transformation as Airports of Thailand (AoT) aims to elevate them into the top 20 globally within five years, drawing inspiration from Singapore’s renowned Changi Airport. This ambitious plan, spearheaded by the Transport Ministry, targets Suvarnabhumi International Airport as a key player in achieving this goal. Permanent Secretary for Transport, Chayatan Phromsorn, confirmed…
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Phuket’s tourism set to earn 500 billion baht this year
Phuket’s tourism industry is poised for a financial boom, with anticipated earnings reaching an impressive 500 billion baht this year. The island’s strategic focus on attracting visitors through sports tourism, even during the traditional off-season, is driving this growth, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Phuket office. Director of TAT Phuket, Lertchai Wangtrakuldee highlighted that the island effectively…
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