The 10 (expat) influencers in Thailand you need to follow today
The online world is filled with unique influencers, each carving out their own space with distinctive content. In Thailand, the expat community is no exception, with many sharing stories, advice, and inspiration from their lives in the Land of Smiles. From travel bloggers and digital nomads to automotive enthusiasts and culinary explorers, these expat influencers have made Thailand their home and have captured the beauty, culture, and lifestyle of the country.
If you’re moving to Thailand, planning a visit, or simply want to stay in the loop with what’s happening there, these influencers will keep you updated with fresh and engaging content. Here are some of the best ones to follow, in no particular order.
Top influencers in Thailand you need to follow (2024)
We’ve chosen influencers who stand out for their engaging content and unique perspectives, not just those with the largest followings. Whether they’ve made content for years or just getting started, they all share one thing in common: quality content.
Mark Wiens
Platform: YouTube, Website, Instagram
If you love Thai food, you’ve probably heard of Mark Wiens. With over 10 million YouTube subscribers, he’s arguably one of the most popular expat influencers in Thailand. He started his journey with a food blog, Migrationology.com, in 2009. Today, his influence stretches far beyond Thailand, as he’s been featured as a Thai food expert by New York Magazine, CNN, and culinary icon Andrew Zimmern.
Wiens’s videos often feature him visiting bustling street food markets, small local eateries, and even home kitchens, where he delves into the preparation and history of the dishes he’s about to savour. Aside from Thai food, he also explores food from all around the world, from Palestine and India to Mexico and Hawaii. His expressive reactions, particularly his signature wide-eyed smile after tasting something delicious, have become iconic.
But aside from talking about food, Wiens is also in the business of it. In 2019, he co-opened Phed Mark with Khun Tan (a Thai food blogger), Khun Pongthep (a designer and actor), and Chef Gigg (a Thai Iron Chef Champion). The restaurant specialises in pad krapao, one of Thailand’s most popular foods. The name is a clever pun on the Thai words for “very spicy” and Wien’s own name, which is pretty fitting considering his love for heat.
Global Travel Mate
Platform: YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
The next influencer on our list is Global Travel Mate, created by Jeroen Maduro. He offers a visual journey through the urban landscapes of Thailand, particularly focusing on Bangkok. His videos often feature detailed walking tours where he showcases everything from bustling markets and serene temples to modern shopping malls and street art. Maduro’s approach is highly immersive. He invites viewers to experience the sights and sounds of Bangkok as if they were walking alongside him. This makes his content valuable for expats and tourists who want to get a feel for different neighbourhoods before visiting or moving to the city.
Maduro is also known for his quick turnaround in creating videos on the latest openings in Bangkok. He provides a first look at new attractions, restaurants, and developments. He even keeps his audience updated on construction progress around the city. This includes infrastructure projects, building developments, and shopping mall expansions, among others. In addition, he frequently produces guides on transportation around the city and occasionally features property showcases in his videos.
What’s interesting about Global Travel Mate is the daily updates on the weather of Bangkok (or any city Maduro is currently in). Through his Instagram and TikTok, he shares weather updates in the morning and at night.
CB Media
Platform: YouTube
CB Media, led by Chad Burdette, is a YouTube channel that focuses on the fascinating world of automotive culture in Thailand and neighbouring countries. With a particular emphasis on exotic cars, motorbikes, and the unique car scene in Southeast Asia, the channel has rapidly grown. It has now attracted over 700,000 subscribers who share a passion for all things motorised. His content stands out for its raw, unfiltered look at car culture. He covers everything from tractor drag races and car meets to in-depth profiles of custom-built cars.
Burdette’s enthusiasm for the automotive world is unmistakable. His videos offer viewers an insider’s perspective on a subculture that is often underrepresented in mainstream media. Besides automotive world, Burdette occasionally offers viewers a broader look at life in different regions of Thailand through his motorbike tours. These adventures often lead him off the beaten path. There, he captures the local flavour and unique experiences that make Southeast Asia such a captivating destination.
Dan About Thailand
Platform: Website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Free Dan About Thailand App
Dan About Thailand is a platform created by Dan Cheeseman, a working expat with a deep love for exploring Thailand. His content is a mix of daily life and family vlogs, cultural observations, travel guides, and practical advice for other expats. With over 2 million views per month across his social media platforms, Dan has cultivated a loyal following. One of the reasons his content is so enjoyable is his authenticity. He has a candid and down-to-earth approach that resonates with viewers who appreciate a more honest look at expat life. Plus, he infused his lively personality and real insights into all his blogs and vlogs, which provides a refreshing alternative to traditional travel guides.
In addition to his social media presence, Dan About Thailand also offers a free app that serves as a comprehensive hub for all things Thailand. The app is designed to simplify planning a trip or living in Thailand as it offers detailed insights on what to see, where to go, and how to experience the real Thailand. It even features “Digital Dan,” a real-time Q&A feature that allows users to ask any questions related to Thailand, from immigration advice to itinerary planning, and receive instant responses. For expats, frequent visitors, or first-time travellers, Dan About Thailand is an essential resource that combines practical information with genuine love for the country.
Mike Yu
Platform: Website, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube
Mike Yu is the influencer to follow if you’re eager to learn Thai and immerse in Thailand’s rich culture. Many of his videos are in Thai with English subtitles, which is a great resource for learning the language through short-but-immersive content. He also offers book and video lessons for those seeking structured learning.
Mike frequently conducts street interviews with expats and locals to provide an engaging look into daily life in Thailand. His interviews span a diverse range of individuals, from students and workers to cultural experts. These discussions cover a broad spectrum of topics, including local food, tourist attractions, shopping, and the cost of living. For instance, Mike recently interviewed a Muay Thai coach who offers valuable advice for foreigners interested in the sport.
Antoinette Yvonne
If you’re interested in a genuine, female-centric perspective on expat life in Thailand, Antoinette Yvonne is one of the best influencers you need to follow. Her YouTube channel offers a personal and inspiring look at life as an American expat in Bangkok. Her vlogs provide a close-up view of her experiences living in the city, including moving guides, seasonal changes, festivals, and condo tours. She also doesn’t shy away from showing her struggles and triumphs without sugarcoating her journey.
Antoinette’s content is deeply personal as she reflects her journey of starting over in her mid-30s and living life abroad with grace and intentionality. Her mission is to empower women to embrace a multifaceted global lifestyle. Her channel provides practical advice, self-care tips, and inspiration for bold living.
Sam Tyler
Platform: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube
Sam Zack Tyler offers unique insights on Thailand through the eyes of both locals and expats. He takes his followers on a unique journey by interviewing Thai locals. This allows him to showcase hidden gems and cultural insights that many foreigners might otherwise miss. In addition to his local interviews, Tyler also regularly features expats who share their experiences of living in Thailand. These include the challenges and joys of moving to a new country.
When he’s not doing interviews, Tyler shares a mix of lifestyle, travel, and cultural content across multiple platforms. His short-form videos on TikTok and Instagram capture day-to-day experiences and travel highlights. On the other hand, his YouTube channel delves deeper into longer narratives and explorations. His content ranges from hotel room tours and trips to stunning destinations like Krabi to quirky activities such as trying viral face massages.
Tania Nueva
Platform: Instagram, TikTok, Website
For anyone looking to discover the hottest spots in Bangkok, Tania Nueva’s social media channels are the go-to source. Her content is vibrant and engaging, providing quick, easy-to-digest recommendations that pack a punch.
Besides sharing destinations to visit, Nueva provides practical insights that help her followers navigate life in Thailand. Whether you’re hunting for the best brunch spots, seeking unique tours and activities, or looking for tips on moving to Bangkok, Nueva’s upbeat and informative posts will give you a fresh sneak peek into life in the city.
Travis Leon Price
Platform: TikTok, Instagram, YouTube
Travis Leon Price brings a mix of humour, practicality, and valuable insights to his content for tourists and expats in Thailand. Born in Scotland, he moved to Bangkok during the pandemic in 2021. His lighthearted style has made him a hit online, particularly with videos that explore quirky aspects of Thai culture, like the local obsession with Yadom (inhalers). His short, funny videos on platforms like Instagram and TikTok offer a blend of entertainment and useful tips.
On YouTube, Price takes a deeper look into the nuances of life in Bangkok. His content goes beyond surface-level travel tips and explores what living in Bangkok is really like, which makes him one of the best influencers in Thailand today.
The Thaiger
Platform: Website, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook
Sure, we’re a news site. However, with all the comprehensive Thailand guides we dish out, the YouTube videos we roll, the podcast episodes we drop, and the fun short clips on Instagram and TikTok, aren’t we practically an influencer, too? Our team of journalists and content creators is always on the pulse of what’s happening to deliver everything from breaking news and politics to travel tips, restaurant reviews, and entertainment.
We mix serious news with the lighter side of life in Thailand to keep you updated, informed, and entertained all at once. By bridging the gap between local and international perspectives, we connect people to Thailand’s vibrant culture, exciting events, and endless opportunities.
Be sure to give these influencers a follow to discover Thailand from a fresh perspective!
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