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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The new volatility cycle: Why 2025’s market shocks will redefine trader expectations in 2026
Perhaps no one would call 2025 uneventful, doubly so if they are an investor. Tariffs and reciprocal action, active conflicts, and geopolitical tensions. Shadow fleets and a reorganisation of economic and strategic ties. A simple Google search for “What affected markets in 2025” returns what reads like a list of why volatility happens. Let’s see what contributed to this volatility,…
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Muay Thai fight promotions that go beyond traditional martial art
Muay Thai has long been Thailand’s national sport, but today, it’s more than a martial art. It’s a social ladder, a second chance, a cultural export, and a fight for recognition. While elite promotions like ONE Championship and the historic Rajadamnern Stadium keep Muay Thai in the spotlight. There are parallel fight cultures that thrive in alleyways, fight clubs and…
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Thailand’s best beach towns for long-term living (2026)
Thailand’s coastline has always been a draw, but when it comes to long-term living, there’s more to consider than a pretty beach. These days, many of Thailand’s beach towns have grown into liveable, well-connected hubs with strong expat communities, international hospitals, and real infrastructure. Still, each place brings its own rhythm, costs, and quirks. Before we begin, ask yourself this:…
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How does Thailand celebrate Teacher’s Day?
In Thailand, few roles are held in higher regard than that of a teacher. Each year on January 16, the country pauses to observe Teacher’s Day, an annual national occasion dedicated to recognising the people who guide, educate, and inspire future generations. The Thai saying “Kru kue mae-pim kawng chad,” meaning “Teachers mould the nation,” captures the spirit of the occasion.…
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How is Thailand using virtual reality to train doctors, students, and workers?
Virtual reality has moved from novelty to necessity across Thailand’s education sector. The technology now addresses real problems such as training medical teams, teaching environmental conservation, and upskilling industrial workers, aligning with the national Thailand 4.0 strategy that prioritises digital infrastructure and innovation-driven growth. The investment backing this transformation is substantial. The Ministry of Education’s Anywhere Anytime initiative allocated US$800 million…
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Bangkok Design Week 2026 returns with ‘DESIGN S/O/S’ from January 29 to February 8
Get ready for the return of Bangkok Design Week 2026 (BKKDW 2026), now in its ninth consecutive year, organised by the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organisation) or CEA, in collaboration with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, government and private sector organisations, educational institutions, international organisations, and creative district network partners. This year, the international design festival brings together creators, designers, entrepreneurs, developers,…
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From Krabi’s peaceful shores to lasting recovery: Inside Yatra Trauma Treatment Centre
Post-traumatic stress disorder and unresolved trauma don’t operate on your schedule. They show up in unexpected moments: a sudden sound that triggers panic, disrupted sleep, emotional withdrawal in relationships, or coping patterns that gradually become hard to control. For expats living in Thailand and international clients seeking treatment abroad, finding specialised, evidence-based trauma care can be challenging. That’s where Yatra…
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Public holidays and observances in Thailand (2026)
As we step into 2026, now’s the perfect time to plan your year in Thailand. From nationwide festivals to regional celebrations, these public holidays shape everything from travel schedules to business operations and social gatherings. Here are our key dates for Thailand’s holidays and observances for 2026. Thailand holidays for January 2026 January 1 (Thursday) – New Year’s Day: A…
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Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort: The ultimate family-friendly destination in 2026
Planning a family vacation this year? Look no further than Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort, where unforgettable memories are created for guests of all ages. Perfectly located just steps from the world-famous Patong Beach, this vibrant resort combines modern comfort, convenience, and exceptional family-friendly amenities, making it the ideal choice for parents and kids alike. Why families love…
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AA Insurance Brokers introduces the MyAA app, putting insurance management at your fingertips
AA Insurance Brokers, one of Thailand’s most established insurance brokers, has introduced MyAA, a free mobile app that gives clients easier access to their insurance information through a single, central platform. Designed to simplify everyday insurance tasks, MyAA brings policy information, claims support, offers, and updates together in one place, helping clients manage their insurance anytime, anywhere. It’s the kind…
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A simple guide to renting in Thailand (plus a bonus tip)
Renting in Thailand is generally straightforward, but a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you’re looking to relocate or planning an extended stay, being familiar with local rental practices, from deposits and documents to pricing and property standards, will make the process much smoother. This guide outlines the key steps to renting in Thailand, from choosing the right location…
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First time ever! Sansiri and Phuketian Coffee host a major coffee festival
Coffee lovers should not miss this. For the first time, the large-scale coffee festival Sansiri Phuket | Sip & Inspire brings together flavour, passion, and community in one place. Sansiri, in collaboration with Phuketian Coffee (Horoy Phuket Coffee Association), led by Future Kittipob, Thailand National Barista Champion 2025, aims to support and strengthen Phuket’s local café and coffee business community, encouraging…
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Top 5 social media marketing agencies in Thailand (2026 edition)
As a business owner, you probably already know that social media has become an essential tool to reach new customers. According to recent industry reports, the majority of marketers continue to see positive outcomes from their social media marketing efforts, with significant increases in business exposure, website traffic, lead generation, and sales conversions. Think of social media as a virtual…
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Tesla Model 3 Standard launches in Thailand with a price cut
Tesla has officially launched the Model 3 Standard in Thailand, introducing a more budget-friendly entry point into the electric vehicle (EV) giant’s premium lineup, positioned alongside fierce competition. With a starting price of 1,149,000 baht, this model is now the most affordable Tesla available in the Thai market, opening the door for more EV enthusiasts to join the Tesla ecosystem.…
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Looking for Children’s Day events in Bangkok 2026? Here’s where to go
A roundup of 17 free places to visit for National Children’s Day on Saturday, January 10, across Bangkok and the surrounding metropolitan areas. National Children’s Day 2026 falls tomorrow. For families who do not yet have plans or are unsure where Children’s Day events will be held this year, we have gathered a complete list of free Children’s Day events…
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Top virologist warns of mutated influenza strain spread in Thailand
A leading virologist has warned the public today, January 8, that a mutated strain of influenza is spreading across Thailand, as reduced vaccine effectiveness contributes to rising case numbers. Professor Yong Poovorawan, a member of the Royal Institute and director of the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine, issued the warning on his Facebook…
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What to do in Bangkok this weekend (January 9 to 11)
So, how was your first full week of being productive in 2026? Even if your New Year’s resolution is forgotten, you’re doing great. Now it’s the second weekend of the year, which is basically permission to unclench and remember that life is not just to do lists and New Year spreadsheets. Here are the best things to do in Bangkok…
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Maddix reflects on Bangkok, creative process, and dream collaborations
After performing at the 8O8 Festival in Bangkok last December, Dutch DJ and producer Maddix spoke with The Thaiger about his experience in the city, how he prepares for live sets, and the artists he hopes to work with in the future. Known for his trademark high-energy techno sound, Maddix has built a solid reputation in the electronic music scene.…
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Can you get into medical school in Thailand as a foreigner?
The short answer is yes, but the fuller answer is considerably more complicated. Thailand offers international medical programmes that accept foreign students and deliver world-class education. However, the path from admission to actually practising medicine involves significant barriers that many prospective students don’t fully appreciate until it’s too late. If you’re considering medical school in Thailand, understanding these barriers upfront…
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Border farmers rush sugarcane harvest amid renewed clash tensions
Farmers living along the Thai-Cambodian border are racing against time to cut and replant sugarcane after repeated evacuations, as fears grow over a possible third military clash that could again force them from their land. In several border villages, agricultural work has resumed only partially, with many farmers returning to fields they were forced to abandon during earlier tensions. While…
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BNH Premier Spine Centre: 20 years of leading spine surgery overseas in Thailand
Living with chronic back or nerve pain can take over every part of daily life, sleep becomes difficult, movement becomes limited, and simple tasks begin to feel overwhelming. For many patients in Western countries, the problem is compounded by long delays in their home healthcare systems. Instead of receiving timely treatment, they often face months or even years of waiting…
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Investment trends 2026: Where should your money go? A deep dive into 3 can’t-miss themes
In the blink of an eye, we are about to wave goodbye to 2025. It has been a year of major economic recalibration, but as we step into 2026, the financial world’s pulse is changing rhythm again. The million-dollar question, having retail investors and portfolio managers scratching their heads, is: “So, where should the money go next year?” To help…
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What to do in Bangkok this weekend (January 2 to 4)
Happy New Year! The first weekend of 2026 has that slightly unhinged energy where no one quite knows what day it is, but everyone agrees it’s still time to go out. The confetti is gone but Bangkok is still full of exciting events to attend. Here are the best things to do in Bangkok this weekend (January 2 to 4)…
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Japanese expat shares Why you must carry a stack of 20-Baht notes in Thailand
Viral Tip: Japanese Expat Reveals Why Carrying a Stack of 20-Baht Notes is Essential for Rural Thailand BANGKOK — A Japanese expatriate living in Thailand has post a good tip on social media. A practical financial tip for traveling upcountry. she adviced always carry a thick stack of 20-baht banknotes. user @mlxism17 posted a photo of a fresh bundle of…
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The best concerts in Bangkok you can’t miss in 2026 (so far)
2026 is already shaping up to be a strong year for live music in Bangkok. From global arena acts to artists choosing smaller rooms for one-off nights, the city’s concert calendar is stacked. Below, we’ve rounded up the biggest and most talked-about concerts happening in Bangkok throughout 2026 (so far), with all the key details you need to lock in…
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The best New Year’s eve dinners around Thailand
New Year’s Eve dinner in Thailand is never just about eating. It’s about sitting somewhere you actually want to stay, ordering another drink without checking the time, and letting the night go by until midnight sneaks up on the table. This list is for people who want their last meal of the year to feel like a moment. Big buffets,…
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Sansiri marks new milestones in Phuket for 2026: Expanding into “Surin Beach” and reinforcing dominance in the “Cherngtalay – Bang Tao” zone
Sansiri has unveiled its strategic location plan for Phuket, announcing two new projects in prime areas: Surin Beach and Cherngtalay – Bang Tao, both scheduled for launch in 2026. Tapping into the potential of “Surin Beach” Sansiri is expanding into Surin Beach, a location recognized as one of the Andaman coast’s highest-potential zones. The area is surrounded by luxury hotels,…
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2026 New Year Bank Holiday: Which Branches are Open or Closed?
As the New Year 2026 festival approaches, many people are planning trips home or vacations during this long holiday. While government agencies observe an extended break, financial institutions and banks have different operating schedules, particularly distinguishing between “in-mall branches” and “general branches.” To help you plan your financial transactions smoothly, we have compiled the bank holiday schedule for New Year…
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How different ages experience healthcare in Thailand (40s, 50s, 60s, 70s)
Thailand offers strong healthcare through public services and excellent private hospitals for all ages. As expats move from their 40s into later decades, their needs shift from simple screenings to managing chronic conditions and planning for long-term care. Planning early helps avoid gaps in coverage, and international insurance like Cigna provides wide hospital access and high limits to stay protected…
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Warnings of higher pollution levels in Bangkok over New Year
Bangkok authorities have issued a pollution warning ahead of the New Year holiday, cautioning residents that PM2.5 levels are likely to rise as air ventilation weakens across the capital. The Bangkok Air Quality Information Centre released an updated air quality outlook covering the period from December 26, 2025 to January 3, 2026. The forecast highlights several days of elevated risk,…
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