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.

  • 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...

  • Phuket fights against HIV: Bold plan to end AIDS by 2030 | Thaiger

    Phuket fights against HIV: Bold plan to end AIDS by 2030

    Phuket has declared an all-out war on HIV/AIDS with the launch of a high-powered workshop aimed at making the island Thailand’s first Province of Ending AIDS by 2030. The two-day event, which opened today, August 19, at the Bukitta Hotel in Phuket Town, gathered 50 representatives from health, government, and community groups. It was chaired by Phuket Provincial Chief Administrative Officer…

  • Australian Pharmacy Location Rules – Insights for success | Thaiger

    Australian Pharmacy Location Rules – Insights for success

    The Australian Pharmacy Location Rules were established under the National Health Act 1953 and are jointly overseen by the Australian Federal Government and the Australian Pharmacy Guild. These rules standardise the approval process for pharmacies to supply medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), allowing the store to be reimbursed for the gap between the patient’s out-of-pocket cost and the…

  • Do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand? | Thaiger

    Do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?

    Thailand’s healthcare system is well-regarded across Southeast Asia, with options ranging from public hospitals to world-class private facilities. But when it comes to foreign residents or tourists, healthcare access isn’t as straightforward. So, do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand? Yes, you do get access to some healthcare for free only if you have a work permit and contribute to…

  • IHG Hotels & Resorts announces senior appointments ahead of the opening of Thailand’s first voco hotel | Thaiger

    IHG Hotels & Resorts announces senior appointments ahead of the opening of Thailand’s first voco hotel

    IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, is pleased to announce the senior leadership team at voco Bangkok Surawong, with Walid Ouezini appointed as General Manager, Wipusana Sriwieng as Director of Sales & Marketing, and Patthira Weir as Director of Marketing Communications. Slated to open in late 2025, the hotel will mark the debut of IHG’s…

  • Kao unveils the ‘Kirei World’ Experience: Inspiring sustainable living through innovation at NST Fair 2025 | Thaiger

    Kao unveils the ‘Kirei World’ Experience: Inspiring sustainable living through innovation at NST Fair 2025

    Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese manufacturer of consumer and chemical products, has presented its immersive Kirei World Tour experience at the National Science and Technology Fair 2025 (NST Fair 2025), organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation under the theme Science in Action for Sustainable Community. The fair showcases Kao’s vision of creating…

  • Kristian Petersen appointed as General Manager of Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok | Thaiger

    Kristian Petersen appointed as General Manager of Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok

    Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok is delighted to announce the appointment of Kristian Petersen as General Manager, effective August 4. A veteran hospitality leader with over 20 years of experience with Marriott International, Kristian brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, pre-opening strategy, and brand transformation across Asia Pacific and Europe. Kristian most recently served as General Manager of…

  • Land of smiles, punchlines, and open mics | Thaiger

    Land of smiles, punchlines, and open mics

    Comedians who were interviewed Johnathan Samson Chris Wegoda Alex Latour People who think Bangkok is only temples, traffic, and tuk-tuks have clearly never been cornered at an open mic by a drunk Australian determined to share his new ladyboy joke. Open mic, you ask? Yes, stand-up comedy exists in Thailand, and it’s not just a hobby. It’s a stubborn, funny-looking,…

  • Hidden gems for Bangkok foodies | Thaiger

    Hidden gems for Bangkok foodies

    Let’s be honest, Bangkok’s food scene is no secret. From high-flying rooftops to humble street carts, there’s no shortage of places to fill your boots. But what about the tucked-away treasures? The off-the-radar spots you stumble upon and immediately want to keep to yourself? This one’s for the curious eaters, the adventurous diners, and anyone tired of the same old…

  • Planning to extend your Thai visa? Why health insurance is more important than ever | Thaiger

    Planning to extend your Thai visa? Why health insurance is more important than ever

    If you plan to stay longer in Thailand, having health insurance is now more important than ever. Thai immigration often asks for proof of medical coverage when you apply to extend your visa. This applies to many types of visas, like retirement or long-term stay. Choosing a plan from a trusted company like Cigna can make the process easier and…

  • Rhythm of Thailand: TAT’s mission to discover Thai charms | Thaiger

    Rhythm of Thailand: TAT’s mission to discover Thai charms

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) continues to boost Thailand’s tourism momentum with its ‘Be My Guest’ project, in collaboration with the National Soft Power Strategy Committee (or Subcommittee for Tourism Industry Development under the National Soft Power Strategy Committee). The initiative drives the government’s soft power policy, intending to position Thailand as a leading global destination, while presenting the…

  • 5 hospitals in Thailand digital nomads trust most | Thaiger

    5 hospitals in Thailand digital nomads trust most

    Thailand is still one of the best places for digital nomads, thanks to its low cost of living, comfortable lifestyle, and good healthcare system. For remote workers living far from home, having access to a trusted hospital is very important. Most digital nomads look for hospitals that meet international standards, have English-speaking staff, and make it easy to use health…

  • Bangkok at dawn: A guide for morning people | Thaiger

    Bangkok at dawn: A guide for morning people

    Mornings in Bangkok feel like a quiet rebellion against the city’s usual chaos, no traffic, no sweat (yet), just movement and misty light. The sky trains hum almost empty. Streets lie open and unhurried, the air still cool, as if the city itself is taking a long, slow breath before the day begins. Some people simply aren’t morning people, and…

  • Mastering the foundations: A comprehensive guide to technical analysis theories | Thaiger

    Mastering the foundations: A comprehensive guide to technical analysis theories

    Technical analysis offers a structured approach to determining what to trade, when to enter the market, and how long to remain involved. Its core principle is simple: every known fact—economic or otherwise—is already reflected in the price. Thus, by observing price and volume alone, traders can discern patterns of crowd psychology and, in turn, anticipate future movements. In practice, any…

  • Not sure what to do for Mother’s Day in Bangkok? Here are some lovely ways to celebrate | Thaiger

    Not sure what to do for Mother’s Day in Bangkok? Here are some lovely ways to celebrate

    It’s Mother’s Day in Thailand tomorrow! Have you made plans yet? If not, there’s still plenty of time to surprise the matriarchs in your life with something thoughtful. The day is celebrated on August 12 to honour Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s birthday, and in Bangkok that means restaurants, cafés, and attractions are ready with special menus, offers, and experiences. From…

  • Thailand permits agricultural drones under strict regulations | Thaiger

    Thailand permits agricultural drones under strict regulations

    The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced that agricultural drone operations will be permitted tomorrow, August 11 under stringent conditions, with a continued nationwide ban on other drones until August 15 or further notice. Both the drone and its operator need registration with the CAAT, along with obtaining agricultural flight authorisation. Operators must possess a clean record, operating…

  • Pay Thai car tax in minutes with new app: DLT (video) | Thaiger

    Pay Thai car tax in minutes with new app: DLT (video)

    Paying your annual car tax just got a whole lot easier—and you won’t even have to leave the sofa. The Department of Land Transport (DLT), in partnership with Krungthai Bank, has launched a groundbreaking service allowing drivers to pay their annual vehicle tax via the Pao Tang app. Officials say the move will save time, cut travel costs, and make…

  • Best weed shops in Khaosan Road, Bangkok [2025] | Thaiger

    Best weed shops in Khaosan Road, Bangkok [2025]

    “Can you still buy cannabis on Khaosan Road?” That’s probably the question on your mind after seeing the headlines. A lot has happened in Thailand’s cannabis scene over the past several weeks. New regulations were introduced, some dispensaries were forced to close, and at the same time, new ones opened their doors. Yes, it can sound a bit confusing, especially…

  • Admire Bespoke Tailor: Elegance, luxury and your style statement | Thaiger

    Admire Bespoke Tailor: Elegance, luxury and your style statement

    Admire Bespoke Tailor, a premium custom tailor in Bangkok, is renowned for its approach, which balances traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. The tailor is no stranger to creating elegant, high-quality suits for clients from Thailand and around the world, where each piece is made with luxury in mind while also matching your style. Admire Bespoke Tailors: Suits that tell your…

  • Digital nomading in Phuket, is it still worth it in 2025? | Thaiger

    Digital nomading in Phuket, is it still worth it in 2025?

    Phuket has been a popular spot for digital nomads for many years, due to its sunny beaches, friendly international crowd, and modern coworking spaces. This year, it still draws remote workers with its low cost of living, good internet, and relaxed island lifestyle. You can work during the day and enjoy the beach or nightlife in the evening. But with…

  • What to do in Bangkok this weekend (August 8 to 10) | Thaiger

    What to do in Bangkok this weekend (August 8 to 10)

    The only annoying thing about the weekend in a city like Bangkok is deciding what to do. There’s too much happening, too many pop-ups to browse, exhibitions to catch before they’re gone, and film screenings you’ll kick yourself for missing. More often than not, you end up wishing you can be at several different places at once than actually making…

  • Pattaya empowers teens with ‘Happy School’ workshops | Thaiger

    Pattaya empowers teens with ‘Happy School’ workshops

    Forget boring lectures—Pattaya’s young leaders got hands-on with happiness this week in a workshop-driven celebration of National Youth Day 2025. Yesterday, August 6 at 9am, the city kicked off its official youth programme at Le Bali Resort & Spa, with Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet presiding over the opening ceremony. Themed Happy School, the event encouraged student leaders from 11 local…

  • ‘Journeys from City to Sea’ with the Autograph Collection Hotels in Thailand | Thaiger

    ‘Journeys from City to Sea’ with the Autograph Collection Hotels in Thailand

    Autograph Collection Hotels, the global collection of independent hotels selected for their unique character and design, invites experience-seeking travellers to embark on a Journeys from City to Sea in Thailand with a special package that includes inspiring stays at two of its distinctive, culture-rich hotels. To celebrate its growing presence in Thailand, Autograph Collection has crafted an immersive journey that includes…

  • Thai woman’s ‘fat belly’ was 8kg cyst shock | Thaiger

    Thai woman’s ‘fat belly’ was 8kg cyst shock

    What looked like a bulging belly from too much food turned out to be an 8-kilogramme tumour—and the woman had no idea. A 31 year old Thai woman named Ratchanaporn from Satun province lived for years with a massive ovarian cyst growing inside her abdomen, completely unaware of its presence. Her family assumed she was overweight due to her eating…

  • Pre-existing conditions? These expat insurance plans still have you covered | Thaiger

    Pre-existing conditions? These expat insurance plans still have you covered

    Many expats feel worried that their pre-existing health problems will stop them from getting insurance in a new country. This fear is common, especially when medical care can be expensive. But the good news is, some insurance, like the plans you can get from Cigna, understand such anxieties and offer plans that may still cover those conditions. These plans give…

  • Thailand’s vape ban gets WHO seal of approval | Thaiger

    Thailand’s vape ban gets WHO seal of approval

    The World Health Organisation (WHO) has endorsed Thailand’s ongoing prohibition on importing and selling e-cigarettes, while the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) has committed to reducing vaping among young people through a “denormalisation” initiative. WHO Thailand senior public health specialist Dr Olivia Nieveras said that Thailand’s e-cigarette ban aligns with empirical evidence on the harm caused by vaping products and…

  • Spa days and smoothie bowls? Here’s how to do rainy season travel right with Novotel Marina Sriracha & Koh Si Chang | Thaiger

    Spa days and smoothie bowls? Here’s how to do rainy season travel right with Novotel Marina Sriracha & Koh Si Chang

    When the skies shift from sun to cloud and the monsoon rolls in, most tourists rush to cancel their plans. But the rainy season in Thailand doesn’t have to mean staying stuck indoors. Destinations like Novotel Marina Sriracha & Koh Si Chang are reimagining the off-season as an opportunity for slow travel, self-care, and a softer kind of holiday. Thailand’s…

  • Thailand plans tax break on foreign income | Thaiger

    Thailand plans tax break on foreign income

    The Thai Revenue Department is fast-tracking new legislation to exempt Thai citizens from income tax on earnings sourced from abroad within the current year. Revenue Department Director-General Pinsai Suraswadi stated that the proposed law would exempt Thai citizens from income tax if they bring foreign-sourced income into Thailand within two years of earning it. The details are under discussion at…

  • Received a scam call from a ‘bank staff’ or ‘police officer’? Here’s what you should do | Thaiger

    Received a scam call from a ‘bank staff’ or ‘police officer’? Here’s what you should do

    Phone scams are a common issue in Thailand, with fraudsters frequently impersonating police officers, bank staff, or other officials to deceive victims into handing over sensitive information or transferring money. Just this morning, I had the mispleasure of accepting a call from a spoof number to hear a second of silence followed by an unfamiliar voice. It was unconvincing immediately…

  • ICONSIAM reaffirms Thailand’s status as a global luxury destination | Thaiger

    ICONSIAM reaffirms Thailand’s status as a global luxury destination

    ICONSIAM, a flagship project developed by Siam Piwat Group in joint venture with Charoen Pokphand Group (CP) and Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC), continues to fortify its position as Thailand’s leading global destination. The iconic landmark draws world-renowned luxury brands to elevate the shopping experience at ICONLUXE, a zone housing over 30 luxury brands. Recent additions include renowned brands such…

  • Why 8 Atelier Residence is poised for growth: Phuket’s investment hotspot in the making | Thaiger

    Why 8 Atelier Residence is poised for growth: Phuket’s investment hotspot in the making

    Phuket’s residential real estate market is no longer defined only by beachfront villas and short-stay resort condominiums. The island is now seeing sustained interest from international investors targeting long-term yields, capital stability, and access to full-scale lifestyle infrastructure. Looking at that demand, 8 Atelier Residence by Glam Estate Group ticks all the boxes. This new condominium project introduces a low-density,…