Guides
Thailand guides on travel, culture, cuisine, and lifestyle—discover top destinations, hidden gems, visa information, and essential tips. Plan your journey with The Thaiger, your trusted source for expert Thailand guides.
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Sponsored Why retirees in Thailand are choosing long-term health insurance over quick fixes
Retirees in Thailand are increasingly seeing the importance of health insurance in protecting their well-being during retirement. With insurance requirements for retirement visas and rising healthcare costs, many are moving away from short-term plans and choosing long-term coverage. Long-term health...
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Zika fear grips Thailand amid rainy season spike
Thailand is on red alert as the Zika virus spreads rapidly through the rainy season, with pregnant women warned they could face devastating consequences if infected. Health officials have sounded the alarm after a spike in cases was reported across three provinces – Bangkok, Phayao, and Maha Sarakham – urging residents to take immediate precautions. The Department of Disease Control…
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A love letter to Bangkok (written in a slightly passive-aggressive way)
Dear Bangkok, Before we get started, you know I love you, right? And everything I say in this letter is because I love you so much, Bangkok. We have a lot to unpack, so let’s get started with your housing. In your city, success isn’t about square footage; it’s measured by the BTU of your air-conditioning, how close you live…
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Thailand hit by mental health spike and baby bust
Thailand’s facing a double dose of trouble—more people are battling mental health issues than ever before, while fewer babies are being born. Experts say it’s a social time bomb. The newly released Thai Health Report 2025, launched yesterday, July 17, by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and Mahidol University, paints a worrying picture of the nation’s emotional and demographic…
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What’s Up Thailand Episode 4: From roaring dinosaurs and elephant art to Phuket comedy and Naruto nostalgia
Time to stomp, strut, and snack your way through Thailand. From roaring dinosaurs and artful elephants to comedy chaos and anime nostalgia, this week’s lineup from What’s Up Thailand has something for everyone. Whether you’re in Bangkok or Phuket, here are the best events to check out before the end of July. What’s up in Thailand Event Details THAINOSAUR: Thai…
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Thai health officials warn against dangerous kids’ pimple popper toy
The Department of Health (DoH) has initiated a campaign to protect children from dangerous toys, including a new item dubbed the “pimple popper.” The campaign was introduced at the department’s Data Centre with participation from the Royal College of Paediatricians of Thailand, the Child Safety Promotion and Injury Prevention Centre, and the Foundation for Consumers. Director General Amporn Benjapolpitak expressed…
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What it’s really like to do IVF in Thailand, according to a fertility doctor
Assisted reproduction is a far more common part of modern motherhood than many people realise. Over 10 million babies have been born through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) across the globe and every year, another half a million join them. But while it’s the most popular and effective assisted reproductive technology (ART), IVF is still seen as intimidating. Yes, the procedure…
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New in July: Save 10% for life on family health plans in Thailand
Cigna has a special offer this July for families in Thailand. When you sign up three or more people on a family health plan, you will save 10% on your premiums for life. This deal helps you get affordable, high-quality care, including doctor visits, emergency treatment, and access to Thailand’s top private hospitals. If you want to protect your family…
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Solventum celebrates first anniversary in Thailand with launch of two groundbreaking dental innovations
Solventum, a leading global healthcare innovation company, proudly marked its first anniversary of operations in Thailand with the unveiling of two cutting-edge dental products: 3M™ Clinpro™ Clear Fluoride Treatment and 3M™ Filtek™ Easy Match. The launch took place recently at the Thailand Dental Association (TDA) 2025 exhibition at the Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld, underscoring Solventum’s more than 70-year legacy…
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Chiang Mai University warns of deadly brain-eating disease
The Faculty of Medicine at Chiang Mai University warns of the silent threat posed by the brain-eating amoeba found in natural water sources, urging caution even with seemingly clean water. Yesterday, July 15, the official page of the Chiang Mai University Faculty of Medicine published an article highlighting the dangers of Naegleria fowleri, a single-celled parasite that can cause fatal…
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How much travel insurance should cost you in Thailand (By trip length)
When planning a trip to Thailand, travel insurance is a smart investment that can save you from unexpected costs. Whether it’s medical expenses, lost luggage, or trip cancellations, the right coverage can provide peace of mind and financial protection against emergencies. While travel insurance isn’t mandatory for most visitors, it’s highly recommended for a stress-free experience abroad. The cost of…
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Phuket declared nearly rabies-free thanks to Soi Dog
In a remarkable triumph for animal welfare and public health, Phuket has emerged as one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia for pet-loving tourists, thanks to a relentless campaign that has driven rabies risk down to almost zero. Southeast Asia’s largest dog and cat charity, Soi Dog Foundation, announced this week that the island has recorded only one human…
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Ant-agonising: Korea Michelin eatery in a stew over Thai insects
It was hailed as a fine-dining thrill, but a two-star Michelin restaurant in Seoul is now in hot water after its trendy sorbet—topped with ants imported from Thailand and the United States—triggered a food safety scandal. South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has referred the owner of the high-end restaurant in Gangnam district to prosecutors for allegedly violating…
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Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with The Peninsula Bangkok’s timeless mooncakes and exclusive limited-edition collector’s box
If you’ve ever wondered what goes into making the perfect mooncake, let me share that it’s so much more than mixing flour and filling. I recently had the chance to step behind the scenes and mould a couple of The Peninsula Bangkok’s famous egg custard mooncakes, made from their in-hotel restaurant Mei Jiang, and I can promise you, it gave…
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Finance minister reveals final contenders to lead Bank of Thailand
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira confirmed yesterday that he has officially signed off on his nominee to lead the Bank of Thailand (BoT) and submitted the selection to the Cabinet for consideration today. Speaking to reporters, Pichai made it clear he had no reservations about collaborating with whichever candidate ultimately gets the nod. “Whoever is selected, I’ll…
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Transgender Thais win free hormone therapy in gold card revolution
Thailand’s Board of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) has approved a sweeping plan to make hormone therapy for gender affirmation an official health benefit under the country’s Universal Health Coverage, known as the Gold Card system. The move, green-lit with a budget exceeding 145 million baht for fiscal year 2025, aims to promote equality and improve the well-being of…
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What do you need before moving from Australia to Thailand?
Moving from Australia to Thailand is a big step that brings exciting new experiences, a rich culture, and often a more affordable way of living. To settle in with less stress, you need to plan ahead. This means sorting out your visa, arranging good health insurance, managing your money, and learning about local rules and customs. With careful preparation, you…
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Thai student numbers plummet in Korea as foreign arrivals surge
In a surprising twist to South Korea’s booming foreign arrivals, the number of Thai students and trainees has nosedived—raising eyebrows as other nationalities flock in record numbers. New figures from Statistics Korea have revealed that in 2024, only 21,000 Thai nationals entered South Korea on student and training visas, a steep 40% drop from the previous year. This decline bucks…
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What’s Up Thailand Episode 3: From book fairs and lantern festivals to rooftop comedy and zine culture
Welcome back to your essential guide for Bangkok’s boldest, brightest, and quirkiest happenings. From riverside book talks to rooftop comedy and caffeine-fueled parties, What’s Up Thailand is your shortcut to the best things to do in the Big Mango this week. Whether you’re living locally or just passing through, here’s your curated lineup of events that cut through the noise,…
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Tea rooms: Steeped in history, served to people who talk too much
When most people think of a tea room, they picture some serene place in London or Paris. You know the type: lace curtains, porcelain cups, people trying to pretend they’re not judging the placement of your spoon while you stir or you have the people who think of themselves as a worldly person. They think of an asian taoist room.…
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Melioidosis kills 72: Thai health ministry issues urgent warning
The Ministry of Public Health has issued a warning about the melioidosis disease, which has resulted in 72 deaths and 1,676 infections. The disease can be contracted through contact with contaminated soil or water, or even by inhaling contaminated dust. It is advised to avoid wading through water or mud and to consume only cooked food. If symptoms develop, medical…
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Discover southern charm at Pakk Taii Design Week 2025
Get ready for a journey to Pakk Taii Design Week 2025 (PTDW2025), the annual creative festival showcasing southern Thailand! From 28 August to 7 September 2025, the historic Old Town of Songkhla and Hat Yai will come alive as all 14 southern provinces unite to highlight the region’s charm and potential. Under this year’s ‘South Paradise’ theme, the event promises…
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Why Thailand is obsessed with Labubus
If you’ve been wondering why everyone in Bangkok is dangling strange little dolls from their designer bags, meet Labubu and Cry Baby, Thailand’s latest pop culture obsessions. Labubu, a mischievous elf with pointy ears, serrated teeth, and wild hair, was created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in 2015. Inspired by Nordic mythology, Labubu first appeared in The Monsters’ story…
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Upcoming music festivals in Thailand you won’t want to miss (July to December 2025)
The best festivals in Thailand have a bit of everything, from big-name bands and DJs to full-on weekends with art, wellness, and even barefoot island raves. And this year, the lineup looks better than ever, with old favourites returning and new names to get excited about. Sure, we love catching dedicated artist performances (and there are so many great concerts…
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Activist calls for sex ban to those under-22 to curb HIV crisis in Thailand
A political activist urged the government to introduce legislation banning people under the age of 22 from having sex, in an effort to reduce the number of HIV cases in Thailand. During a parliamentary session, Deputy Minister of Public Health Chaichana Daecho admitted that HIV infection rates among young people had increased. He emphasised that the ministry was aware of…
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Nora Beach Club is the all-day escape you didn’t know you needed in Phuket
Phuket is no stranger to beach clubs, but few pull off the full package quite like Nora Beach Club. There’s a little Ibiza in the way the music picks up after lunch. A bit of Bali in the layout, with the pool, bar, and shaded cabana blending into one another. But the atmosphere is pure Phuket: relaxed, friendly, and full…
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Rabies deaths in Thailand triple with dogs as primary source
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) reported a threefold increase in rabies-related deaths in Thailand this year. Of these cases, 90% were contracted from dogs and 10% from cats. Yesterday, July 7, Dr Phanumart Yanawetaskul, Director General of the Department of Disease Control, announced that seven fatalities have occurred in Chon Buri, Sisaket, Chachoengsao, Nakhon Ratchasima, Tak, and Rayong. This…
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Thai royal award celebrates Vietnam’s top teachers
Vietnam’s star educators are basking in the royal spotlight after a Thai delegation arrived to celebrate their achievements and ramp up educational ties across Asia. From July 6 to 8, a high-profile delegation from the Princess Maha Chakri Award Foundation (PMCAF), led by Chairman Dr Krissanapong Kirtikara, visited Vietnam to meet past award winners, promote regional cooperation and prepare for…
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FDA plans new standards for bottled water
The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plans to propose a draft announcement to the health minister to raise the quality standards of bottled water and ice to international levels. Doctor Surachoke Tangwiwat, Secretary General of the FDA, said the proposal aims to benefit manufacturers, consumers, and the environment. A recent meeting was held to present the draft regulations, which…
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Thai US tax talks stall as Vietnam races ahead
Thailand’s hopes of clinching a breakthrough tax agreement with the United States have hit a stumbling block, leaving officials scrambling for solutions—and exporters nervously watching from the sidelines. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira admitted yesterday, July 4, that the much-anticipated deal remains out of reach despite days of high-level negotiations in Washington. Speaking during a stopover in…
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Welcome to summer school break: Family holidays and fun at Jungceylon Phuket
Summer school break has officially arrived, and that means it’s time to swap early morning alarms and lunchboxes for lazy mornings, beach trips, and quality time with the kids. If you’re in Phuket or planning a trip with the kids, Jungceylon in Patong is a great choice for a full day of entertainment, food, and shopping. You don’t need to…
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