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.

  • Research reveals smartwatches can really detect heart disease and Samsung proves the most accurate | Thaiger

    Research reveals smartwatches can really detect heart disease and Samsung proves the most accurate

    The Thaiger key takeaways A meta-analysis of 26 studies involving 17,349 participants found smartwatches can accurately detect atrial fibrillation (AF) with up to 97% accuracy. Samsung and Amazfit ranked highest for diagnostic precision, slightly ahead of Apple and Withings. Despite impressive results, researchers warn of false positives, especially among healthy users, and stress the need for professional medical follow-up. Twenty-six…

  • How to stay at your best all day with Demosana Alpha-M | Thaiger

    How to stay at your best all day with Demosana Alpha-M

    The Thaiger key takeaways Many men experience low energy due to stress, poor sleep, and nutrient gaps, but small lifestyle changes can help improve daily stamina. Alpha-M Effervescent Tablets combine L-Arginine, Korean Ginseng, Zinc, and B vitamins in one refreshing drink to support energy metabolism. With balanced nutrition, movement, and hydration, you can expect to feel more energetic. Between work,…

  • Culture shock: What will surprise foreign students most about studying in Thailand? | Thaiger

    Culture shock: What will surprise foreign students most about studying in Thailand?

    The Thaiger key takeaways Thai classrooms emphasise respect and hierarchy, where teachers hold deep authority and humility earns trust. Uniforms, morning assemblies, and Buddhist traditions give students a structured yet culturally rich school experience. While academic pressure and language barriers can challenge foreign students, the immersion fosters adaptability and cross-cultural growth. For many foreign families moving to Thailand, education is…

  • Best islands to visit in Thailand before peak tourism season hits | Thaiger

    Best islands to visit in Thailand before peak tourism season hits

    The Thaiger key takeaways November is the sweet spot. The month offers sunshine without the crowds or inflated prices. The Andaman Sea and Eastern Gulf are dry and peaceful, while the Southern Gulf is still rainy. ravel insurance like SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance keeps you covered across Thailand’s islands for stress-free adventures. Thailand’s peak season (the cool and dry season from…

  • Is a Thai public school an option for foreign kids? Pros and cons | Thaiger

    Is a Thai public school an option for foreign kids? Pros and cons

    The Thaiger key takeaways Foreign children can enrol in Thai public schools, but admission and costs vary depending on the school. Public schools offer affordability and cultural immersion but come with language barriers and limited foreign student support. English Programs (EP) within public schools provide a middle ground between local and international education. For many expat families settling in Thailand,…

  • Bangkok dominates World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 with three hotels in top 10 | Thaiger

    Bangkok dominates World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 with three hotels in top 10

    The results are in for The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025, revealing a massive victory for Thailand’s luxury hospitality scene. While Rosewood Hong Kong secured the coveted No. 1 position, Bangkok established itself as a global powerhouse, landing three hotels in the top 10. This year, The Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River claimed the No. 2 spot, earning…

  • Where to celebrate Loy Krathong in Thailand this year | Thaiger

    Where to celebrate Loy Krathong in Thailand this year

    The Thaiger key takeaways Loy Krathong will be celebrated nationwide with a softer, more respectful tone this year. Hotels and venues across Thailand are hosting intimate dinners and cultural events by the water. It’s a special time to reflect, celebrate, and take part in one of Thailand’s most cherished traditions. Loy Krathong is almost here, and Thailand is preparing for…

  • Thai welfare cardholders get year-end cash boost from November | Thaiger

    Thai welfare cardholders get year-end cash boost from November

    The Thai government will grant state welfare cardholders an extra 1,700 baht over two months to ease living costs and boost year-end economic activity. Starting today, November 1, over 13.4 million welfare cardholders across Thailand will receive an additional 1,700 baht in total, spread over two months. The new measure was confirmed by government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat following a Cabinet…

  • Why trade Forex and crypto only? Here are 8 asset classes you can trade with FP Markets | Thaiger

    Why trade Forex and crypto only? Here are 8 asset classes you can trade with FP Markets

    When people talk about trading, trading currencies (Forex) or cryptocurrencies immediately comes to mind. But the reality is, the global financial market offers countless alternative assets worth noting. Each moves according to different economic cycles, news events, and supply-demand dynamics. Limiting your investments to just one or two asset types is like putting all your eggs in one basket. When…

  • Everything you need to know about the magical Yi Peng Festival | Thaiger

    Everything you need to know about the magical Yi Peng Festival

    If you happen to be in Chiang Mai from November 5 to 6, don’t miss out on the magical Yi Peng Festival. The Yi Peng lantern festival in northern Thailand is considered to be the most ethereal event worldwide. This celebration is not only magnificent, but it also has a lot of religious and cultural significance. Thus, it’s a great…

  • Trip.com launches “Move on for Good, Travel Smooth” campaign with TAT and One Bangkok | Thaiger

    Trip.com launches “Move on for Good, Travel Smooth” campaign with TAT and One Bangkok

    Trip.com, a leading global travel service provider, has joined forces with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and One Bangkok to launch two exciting initiatives that promise to transform how travellers experience Bangkok. At a press conference held at One Bangkok on October 27, the three partners unveiled the Move On for Good, Travel Smooth campaign alongside a special BTS…

  • Mother of the nation: Queen Sirikit’s influence and why she was beloved | Thaiger

    Mother of the nation: Queen Sirikit’s influence and why she was beloved

    The Thaiger key takeaways Queen Sirikit was cherished for her cultural devotion, humanitarian spirit, and lifelong service to the Thai people. Her advocacy for Thai textiles, rural crafts, and women’s empowerment helped preserve Thailand’s cultural heritage. Remembered as the “Mother of the Nation,” her compassion and leadership continue to inspire generations. For many in Thailand, the name Queen Sirikit evokes…

  • What to do for Halloween in Bangkok | Thaiger

    What to do for Halloween in Bangkok

    Bangkok always finds a way to make Halloween feel alive. From riverside dinners with eerie cocktails to rooftop parties and haunted houses that actually make you jump, the city’s packed with things to do this weekend. Families can enjoy light-hearted activities and trick-or-treating, while the night crowd heads out for costumes, chaos and a few scares. If you’re not sure…

  • FC Bayern partners with CRC sports to bring official licensed products and exclusive fan experiences to Thailand | Thaiger

    FC Bayern partners with CRC sports to bring official licensed products and exclusive fan experiences to Thailand

    FC Bayern Munich, one of the world’s most successful and storied football clubs, is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with CRC Sports, Thailand’s leading sports retail company under the Supersports brand. Through this collaboration, CRC Sports became the exclusive licensee and distributor of official FC Bayern Munich merchandise in Thailand to bring authentic products and world-class fan experiences…

  • Chinese Tourists can now use Alipay, WeChat Pay to scan Thai QR codes for payments | Thaiger

    Chinese Tourists can now use Alipay, WeChat Pay to scan Thai QR codes for payments

    The Bank of Thailand (BOT) announces a major collaboration connecting payment systems with China, facilitating tourism which saw 8.8 million travelers in 2024. Five major banks join the launch. The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has officially announced the launch of cross-border QR code payment services between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China. Starting October 30, 2025, tourists from China…

  • What to do in Bangkok this weekend (October 31 to November 2) – minus the Halloween crowd | Thaiger

    What to do in Bangkok this weekend (October 31 to November 2) – minus the Halloween crowd

    Bangkok feels a little quieter this weekend. With the city mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, many events have paused their parties and loud celebrations. But if you’re skipping the Halloween crowd, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the weekend. Catch a good film at the Irish Film Festival, dig through vinyl and vintage finds at…

  • Balance in Bloom: Art, wellness & harmony at Sole Mio Boutique Hotel & Wellness | Thaiger

    Balance in Bloom: Art, wellness & harmony at Sole Mio Boutique Hotel & Wellness

    As the final edition of the Sole & Soul Sunset Journeys series, this event marks a heartfelt closing chapter. This November, Sole & Soul Sunset Journeys: Volume 9 – Balance in Bloom celebrates the art of harmony where wellness, gratitude, and creativity come together under the golden Phuket sky. Guests are invited to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and restore…

  • How to claim international health insurance in Thailand – A step-by-step guide | Thaiger

    How to claim international health insurance in Thailand – A step-by-step guide

    The Thaiger key takeaways Thailand’s hospitals are well-equipped for international patients, but the claim process can vary between insurers and facilities. Understanding direct billing, reimbursement, and pre-authorisation helps make sure your claim is processed quickly. Working with an experienced local broker like Pacific Prime Thailand can save you time and prevent costly claim mistakes. Private hospitals in Thailand are advanced. …

  • Where to rent your halloween costume in Bangkok | Thaiger

    Where to rent your halloween costume in Bangkok

    The Thaiger key takeaways Bangkok has plenty of costume shops with last-minute rentals available before Halloween. From anime and movie characters to traditional Thai and vintage looks, there’s something for every style. Many shops offer delivery or online booking, so you can sort your outfit without leaving home. You’ve left it to the last minute again, haven’t you? We’ve all…

  • The best Thai Horror movies to scare you silly | Thaiger

    The best Thai Horror movies to scare you silly

    The Thaiger key takeaways Thai horror movies are known across Asia for their spine-chilling storytelling and emotional depth. Shutter and The Medium deliver genuine scares, while Pee Mak adds a perfect dose of comedy for the faint-hearted. Thai cinema proves that horror can be emotional, surprising, and entertaining all at once. Halloween’s just around the corner and you’re still not…

  • WikiFX announces 2025 list of top 25 forex brokers in Thailand | Thaiger

    WikiFX announces 2025 list of top 25 forex brokers in Thailand

    WikiFX has officially released its SkyLine Guide 2025 list for Thailand, spotlighting 25 top-performing forex brokers across the nation. The annual list is based on WikiFX’s proprietary evaluation system, which assesses brokers across four key dimensions: regulatory compliance, market influence, user preference alignment, and historical performance. The goal is to provide Thai investors with a reliable, data-backed reference for selecting…

  • Ministry confirms schools can celebrate during mourning | Thaiger

    Ministry confirms schools can celebrate during mourning

    Thailand’s Education Ministry has clarified its stance on school celebrations, confirming that festivities are not banned, despite earlier confusion caused by conflicting guidelines. An urgent notice, issued to private schools yesterday, October 28, cancels the ministry’s previous directive and outlines revised measures. The new guidelines, effective from October 25, came following an executive meeting held on Monday, October 27. Academic…

  • Hong Thai defends balm recall, vows tighter safety checks | Thaiger

    Hong Thai defends balm recall, vows tighter safety checks

    A herbal balm manufacturer has recalled a product after Thai health officials found contamination during a routine inspection, prompting a public safety warning. Thai Herbal Hong Thai Ltd., the maker of the Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler Formula 2, has announced a recall of production Lot 000332 following an inspection by Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Routine tests found that…

  • The guide to affordable healthcare in Thailand | Thaiger

    The guide to affordable healthcare in Thailand

    The Thaiger key takeaways Thailand’s healthcare system combines low-cost public services with world-class private hospitals. Private health insurance protects expats from major medical bills and meets visa requirements. Cigna offers expat-focused plans with direct billing, top hospital access, and 24/7 support. Thailand’s healthcare system is known for being both good and affordable. Many people in Asia choose the country for…

  • Thai herbal balm flagged for contamination in FDA safety alert | Thaiger

    Thai herbal balm flagged for contamination in FDA safety alert

    A popular herbal balm has been slapped with a public health warning after failing safety tests, with Thai authorities revealing it could pose serious health risks. Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has flagged the Herbal Mixed Balm, Hong Thai Brand, Formula 2 (registration number G309/62) for microbial contamination after routine sampling found it breached multiple safety regulations. The balm,…

  • UF AWARDS APAC 2025 winners: Honouring the Asia-Pacific’s finest | Thaiger

    UF AWARDS APAC 2025 winners: Honouring the Asia-Pacific’s finest

    In Asia-Pacific’s financial sector, distinguishing genuine quality from fleeting trends presents a constant challenge for businesses and clients. An industry-backed endorsement becomes a powerful confirmation of trust and performance. This principle is the foundation upon which the UF AWARDS APAC were built, offering a clear benchmark for excellence in a crowded market. After an extensive nomination and public voting process,…

  • Education Ministry denies school event ban during mourning | Thaiger

    Education Ministry denies school event ban during mourning

    Thailand’s Education Ministry has denied issuing a blanket ban on school activities during the national mourning period for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, following backlash from parents and educators online. Concerns were sparked after the ministry circulated a directive urging educational institutions to avoid “joyful activities” for one year out of respect. However, Education Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat has…

  • How to claim your cash in Thailand’s co-pay wallet scheme | Thaiger

    How to claim your cash in Thailand’s co-pay wallet scheme

    Thailand’s co-pay scheme returns, allowing eligible users to start spending via the Paotang app after topping up their G Wallet through various methods. Thailand’s popular co-payment scheme Khon La Khrueng Plus is back, and eligible users can start spending from tomorrow, October 29, through the Paotang app. But before cashing in on the perks, beneficiaries must first top up their…

  • Jungceylon Phuket brings together Halloween, Loy Krathong, and the Thailand Biennale in one festive season | Thaiger

    Jungceylon Phuket brings together Halloween, Loy Krathong, and the Thailand Biennale in one festive season

    If there’s one place in Phuket that knows how to turn every season into a celebration, it’s Jungceylon Phuket. As the year draws to a close, the shopping mall in Patong is hosting spooky Halloween fun, the grace of Loy Krathong, and the Thailand Biennale Phuket, where you can see art installations that stretch imagination as far as it does…

  • What happens during a royal mourning period in Thailand? A guide for expats and tourists | Thaiger

    What happens during a royal mourning period in Thailand? A guide for expats and tourists

    Thailand is a country that deeply honours its royal family in life and in death, and following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, on October 24, the country has entered an official royal mourning period. This is a time that may be unfamiliar to tourists, new expats, or even long-time residents who haven’t experienced such an…