Best of
Thailand best-of guides on travel, lifestyle, entertainment, and property—discover hidden gems, top attractions, and expert tips. Explore with The Thaiger, your trusted source for the best experiences in Thailand.
-
Sponsored Why health insurance costs more each year and how expats in Thailand can save more money
Each year, many expats living in Thailand see their health insurance premiums go up and often without a clear reason. This can be frustrating, especially when you're trying to plan your budget. But by understanding why prices rise and learning...
-
Thai healthcare scheme stable with 46 billion baht in reserves
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has assured the public that the 30-baht “gold card” Universal Healthcare Coverage scheme remains financially stable, with hospitals holding reserve funds of 46 billion baht after liabilities. During a meeting of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) board, Somsak addressed concerns regarding hospital budget deficits, which some attribute to the scheme’s compensation mechanism. Critics argue…
-
What to do in Bangkok this weekend (June 6 to 8)
June in Bangkok is off to a lively start, with a packed calendar of art, music, food and community-driven happenings. Pride events can be found every where around the city, there’s craft beer on tap, ocean-inspired art to explore, and even a charity gala if you’re feeling fancy. Here’s what to check out this weekend. 7 Things to do in…
-
Does your health insurance still cover Covid-19? What expats in Thailand need to check
Covid-19 cases are rising again in Thailand, with the Ministry of Public Health reporting that five provinces with the highest Covid-19 infections, with a national total of 324,692 cases and 69 fatalities. The spike comes as the rainy season begins and schools reopen, and the virus is expected to keep spreading, especially in places like Chiang Mai, where many expats live. Most cases…
-
7 Tips for choosing the best health insurance in Thailand for expats
Many expats in Thailand don’t give health insurance much thought because the country’s healthcare system is excellent (arguably the best in Southeast Asia) and, for the most part, affordable. But affordability doesn’t mean it’s cheap, and it certainly doesn’t mean medical bills can’t add up quickly. Expat health insurance is still one of the most essential things to have. It…
-
Your guide to shopping at an outlet store
Discovering amazing deals at an outlet store can be a game-changer for your shopping routine. An outlet store is designed to provide substantial savings compared to traditional stores. This is often achieved through the sale of surplus or overstocked items, discontinued products, or items that are nearing their sell-by date. It’s a place where you won’t just find traditional clothes…
-
Thailand’s meth crisis sparks mental health fears
Thailand is battling a full-blown methamphetamine (meth) epidemic, with 1.5 million users nationwide and hundreds of thousands suffering serious mental health effects, according to bombshell new research unveiled this week. The data, released by the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), paints a grim picture of widespread meth use and the severe impact it’s having on Thai society, particularly among youth. During a…
-
Syphilis surge grips Phuket as tourism booms again
A shocking surge in syphilis cases has hit Phuket, with infections now reported in all three districts of the island province. Health officials are sounding the alarm as the rise coincides with the post-pandemic rebound in tourism and a return to riskier sexual behaviour. “Youths remain a high-risk group, but syphilis can affect people of all genders and ages who engage in…
-
How one hospital visit in Thailand could cost more than your whole trip
Thailand is a favourite spot for travellers who want to enjoy more while spending less. From cheap street food to low-cost hotels and fun attractions, it’s easy to stretch your budget here. But there’s one thing many people don’t think about—a sudden hospital visit. It can cost more than your whole trip. You might save money day to day, but…
-
Monsoon season in Thailand: Is your health insurance ready for the unexpected?
Thailand’s rainy season brings heavy rain that helps the land but also causes health problems. Flooded roads can lead to accidents, and standing water can spread illnesses like dengue fever. It can also be harder to get medical help quickly. In this article, you’ll learn about the health risks during the monsoon season and why it’s important to have good…
-
What to do in Bangkok this June 2025
Didn’t we just celebrate the New Year? Somehow, it’s already June, and as you can expect, Bangkok is full of events to match the mid-year energy. From live music to anime exhibitions and thought-provoking art shows, there’s plenty to keep your weekends (and weekdays) interesting this month. Here are our round up of the best events happening in Bangkok this…
-
Bangkok Pride events 2025: Where to celebrate Pride Month
Pride Month is here and Bangkok’s not holding back. With marriage equality finally within reach, there’s a real sense that the city’s ready to make history. The streets are louder, the outfits bolder, and the calendar packed with everything from sweaty all-nighters to river cruises, art shows, and rooftop cocktails. Here are the best parties, events, performances, and all things…
-
Chon Buri hospital declares war on big tobacco and e-cigs
A Chon Buri hospital has gone full throttle in the fight against smoking, blasting Big Tobacco and vaping in a fiery World No Tobacco Day event. Somdet Phra Boromma Ratchathewi Hospital in Sriracha joined the global war on smoking yesterday, May 30, hosting a dynamic event for World No Tobacco Day at the Sri Sawarinthira Nusorn 150 Years Building. Leading…
-
Confessions of a soi dog
You’ve seen us. We’re on every soi, under every noodle cart. At every 7-Eleven door, like we’re bouncers. And no, we’re not lost, we live here. You’re the one who wandered in with your Google Translate with zero street sense. We soi dogs are the last free beings in this country. No leash, no rent, no vet bills, no Instagram.…
-
Thailand braces as new Covid variant NB.1.8.1 rises fast
Thailand’s health experts are keeping a sharp eye on a new Covid-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, which is rapidly gaining ground and is expected to become the dominant strain in the country soon. Dr Yongyot Thummavudhi, director-general of the Department of Medical Sciences (DMSC), revealed yesterday, May 29, that the World Health Organisation (WHO) is actively monitoring multiple Omicron variants. Among these,…
-
What to do in Bangkok this weekend (May 30 to June 1)
Bangkok never lets a weekend go quietly, and the final days of May are coming in loud, proud, and full of flavour. Pride Month is nearly here, and the city’s wasting no time getting the party (and the purpose) started. From glamorous galas to slow rituals and loud dance floors, here are five things to do in Bangkok from May…
-
Stretching into serenity: Pattaya Beach starts yoga countdown
Sun, sand, and salutations — Pattaya Beach transformed into a haven of calm as hundreds gathered to launch the countdown to the International Day of Yoga in a spirited celebration of wellness, unity, and global harmony. Marking “25 Days to International Day of Yoga,” Pattaya City joined forces with the Indian Association of Pattaya for a vibrant beachside event that…
-
A rooftop evening of art, cuisine & connection at Sole Mio Boutique Hotel & Wellness
Rooftop views, summer bites, and creative sparks await at Sole Mio Boutique Hotel & Wellness this June. As the next chapter of the Soul & Sole Sunset Journeys unfolds, guests are invited to paint the flavour through an evening spent on the rooftop, featuring tartare tastings, signature cocktails, live art, and acoustic music, all set above Bangtao’s coastal skyline. Aligned…
-
Denied a visa extension in Thailand? Here’s how travel insurance can help
Denied a visa extension in Thailand? It can be a stressful and confusing experience. Immigration rules are strict, and even a small mistake, like missing documents, overstaying a visa, or not showing enough funds, can lead to a denial. If this happens, you may need to leave the country quickly or face unexpected costs. This is where travel insurance becomes…
-
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 insurance gives retirees peace of mind by covering age-related health issues, providing access to quality care, protecting them from expensive…
-
THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2025 returns with a glimpse into the future of food
THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2025 has landed at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, and with it comes the most ambitious showcase of food innovation and culinary trends in Asia. The food exhibition brings together over 3,100 exhibitors from 50+ countries, all converging on Bangkok to map the future of food and beverage. Organised by Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP)…
-
Blue Elephant showcases Thai culinary excellence at THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2025
Celebrating 45 years of culinary excellence and cultural legacy this year, Blue Elephant, the iconic name in heritage Thai cuisine, is proud to announce its participation in THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2025, one of Asia’s most influential food and beverage trade shows. Taking place from May 27 to 31 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, Blue Elephant is located in the Fine…
-
Deadly flu surge sparks star-backed vaccine push in Pattaya
Bangkok Hospital Pattaya has launched a high-profile vaccine campaign to combat influenza following Thailand’s deadly flu outbreak earlier this year. Held in the lobby of Building E, the BDMS Preventive Vaccine event drew attention not only for its critical public health message, but also for its star power. Thai actor Art Phasut Banyam and his mother took centre stage to…
-
Expat moms-to-be: Navigating maternity insurance plans in Thailand
Expecting a baby while living abroad can be exciting and a little overwhelming, especially for expat moms-to-be in Thailand. Maternity insurance is important because it helps cover the high costs of private hospital care and gives you peace of mind during pregnancy and childbirth. Many expats find it tricky to understand the different insurance plans, waiting periods, what is covered…
-
How Thailand’s healthcare system compares to the U.S. and Europe for expats
If you’re moving abroad, healthcare is one of the most important things to think about. Many expats choose Thailand because it offers good medical care at a lower cost than in the US or Europe. Private hospitals in Thailand are modern and affordable and have English-speaking doctors, making them a popular choice. In this article, we look at how Thailand’s…
-
Why couples worldwide are choosing Thailand for fertility treatment
The discreet queues at Thailand fertility clinics aren’t included in your standard travel or even expat guide. But if you walk inside one of its top reproductive centres, you’ll see that for many couples struggling with infertility, the country is where parenthood begins. Every year, thousands of couples from around the world board long-haul flights with a very specific kind…
-
Thailand tightens medical cannabis rules: Prescription-only flowers
Thailand’s Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has announced stricter regulations on cannabis, allowing the sale of cannabis flowers solely for medical use with a valid prescription. The move aims to crack down on recreational misuse while supporting legal medical treatments. DTAM’s director-general, Somruek Chungsaman, revealed the updated Public Health Ministry notification today, May 23, focusing on three…
-
ISAAN SOUL PROUD: ISAANCF2025 returns to light up Khon Kaen
The clock is ticking; Thailand’s liveliest and most inspiring creative event of the year is fast approaching. Isaan Creative Festival 2025 (ISAANCF2025) returns for its fifth edition, this time, held under the theme ISAAN SOUL PROUD, from June 28 to July 6, 2025, positioning Khon Kaen as a regional creative hub of northeastern Thailand. Organised by the Creative Economy Agency…
-
Understated elegance in the Maldives, is it possible?
The Maldives is certainly one of the most scenic beach destinations in the world. In the UK and many European countries, the islands are one of the top honeymoon destinations. The Maldives is also popular for winter holidays among couples and families. Blended among the regular travellers are celebrities. But do you notice them? Hardly, we guess. That’s because celebrities…
-
Banyan Tree Samui launches speedboat tours to Thailand’s ‘White Lotus’ islands
In the final captivating scene of The White Lotus, the lead characters of the hit HBO series — or should we say “the survivors”, following a cascade of deadly shoot-outs at the ill-fated mythical hotel — are seen departing Koh Samui on a motorboat and sailing into the sunset, and presumably towards some form of redemption; such is the dark…
-
Gambero Rosso back in Bangkok
Mark your calendars for June 4, a date that promises to be unforgettable for Thai wine aficionados! Gambero Rosso is making a triumphant return to Thailand, the Asian market that’s currently bursting with potential. With the recent abolition of import duties, the appetite for wine is soaring, fueled not just by tourism but also by a vibrant new generation eager…
Don't forget to check out some other things to do in Thailand - get help starting a business or finding a job in Thailand, buy Thailand property, rent a yacht or book a medical procedure worldwide.