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

    5 ways retirees in Thailand lose money (and how to stop it)

    Retiring in Thailand can be affordable and enjoyable, but many retirees lose money due to common mistakes. High living costs, scams, and unexpected expenses can quickly drain savings. There are five ways that retirees in Thailand can lose money and...

  • What is the coldest month in Thailand?

    What is the coldest month in Thailand?

    Thailand’s winter season, from November to February, offers cooler temperatures and lower humidity, providing a refreshing break from the usual tropical heat. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. The winter season’s mild weather creates perfect conditions for travel and unique experiences across different regions. This article explores the…

  • Everything you need to know about SMART Visa in Thailand

    Everything you need to know about SMART Visa in Thailand

    If you’re thinking about working, starting a business, or simply enjoying the perks of living in Thailand, the SMART Visa might be the golden ticket you’ve been searching for. Designed for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors, the SMART Visa makes it easier for foreigners to live and work in Thailand while contributing to the country’s growing economy. The SMART Visa…

  • Royal Orchid Sheraton Bangkok promises a magical Christmas this year

    Royal Orchid Sheraton Bangkok promises a magical Christmas this year

    The most wonderful time of the year is almost here! While Christmas in Bangkok doesn’t come with snow or frosty mornings, it has its own special kind of magic. And nowhere does the spirit come alive more vividly than the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers Bangkok. With the glittering Chao Phraya River as their backdrop, this iconic hotel is…

  • A Hollywood smile, a Thai price: Thailand’s dental solution

    A Hollywood smile, a Thai price: Thailand’s dental solution

    Have you ever dreamed of flashing a perfect Hollywood smile but thought the price tag was out of reach? What if we told you that in Thailand, you could achieve those pearly whites without emptying your wallet? Yes, people from around the globe are turning to affordable dental care in Thailand. From veneers and implants to root canals and braces,…

  • This Christmas, give the gift of health: essential options for expats in Thailand

    This Christmas, give the gift of health: essential options for expats in Thailand

    The holiday season is here, bringing warmth, joy, and a chance to reflect on the year gone by. As an expat in Thailand, this Christmas is a great time to invest in something that truly matters: health. Whether for you or your loved ones, prioritising health ensures security and peace of mind in the long run. In Thailand, medical costs…

  • Where to celebrate Christmas in Koh Samui 2024

    Where to celebrate Christmas in Koh Samui 2024

    How do you imagine Christmas in Koh Samui? Tropical breezes, turquoise waters, and an ocean view that makes even the best snow globes jealous? You’re absolutely right. But don’t think for a second you’ll have to sacrifice the festive cheer. Twinkling fairy lights, grand feasts, and all the holiday magic you’d expect back home are right here, too, just swapped…

  • Thailand eyes Phuket for bitcoin sandbox experiment

    Thailand eyes Phuket for bitcoin sandbox experiment

    Thailand is edging closer to cryptocurrency adoption, with Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira dropping hints about extending the bitcoin sandbox experiment in Phuket. This bold move could position Thailand as a regional leader in digital currency innovation. “We are not suggesting replacing existing currencies with bitcoin.” Pichai emphasised the controlled nature of the trial. Under the sandbox model, bitcoin would be…

  • What to do in Bangkok this week (December 21 to 26)

    What to do in Bangkok this week (December 21 to 26)

    Oh, Bangkok, always so exciting and full of events! Be it the weekend or a weekday, there are always fun things happening that sometimes we get a serious case of FOMO (fear of missing out). But don’t worry if you’re unsure where to go. Below, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Bangkok this week (December 21 to…

  • Buon Natale: Italasia opens its latest branch in One Bangkok

    Buon Natale: Italasia opens its latest branch in One Bangkok

    Italasia, a longstanding and reputable importer of Italian products, led by Managing Director Chakrit Benedetti and Fa Benedetti, executive management and hospitality director of Italasia Group, hosted the grand opening party to celebrate the official unveiling of Italasia One Bangkok. This is the 36th branch located in a new global landmark in the heart of the city at One Bangkok. The event was attended yesterday,…

  • Welcome the New Year in style at INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit

    Welcome the New Year in style at INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit

    Bangkok doesn’t hold back when it comes to New Year’s celebrations, and neither should you. If you’re still working on your plans, INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit has the perfect lineup: delicious buffets for a laid-back feast, fancy rooftop dinners if you’re feeling a bit bougie, a rooftop party to dance your way into 2025, and brunches to start the…

  • Thailand’s credit card industry faces toughest challenge in 20 years

    Thailand’s credit card industry faces toughest challenge in 20 years

    The credit card industry in Thailand is bracing for its most formidable challenge in two decades, a situation attributed to an anticipated weak economy next year, as highlighted by the Thai Bankers’ Association’s credit card club. Atis Ruchirawat, chair of the club, emphasised that the unsecured loan sector, encompassing credit cards and personal loans, has already felt the tremors of…

  • Sleighing it: Thaiger’s best Christmas films to spark a flurry of debate

    Sleighing it: Thaiger’s best Christmas films to spark a flurry of debate

    In the wake of our Best Christmas Singles feature, The Thaiger is turning the spotlight on our favourite festive films. With a sleigh-load of movies to choose from, we anticipate a flurry of debate as some readers may be miffed to find their beloved Christmas classic absent from our list. But fear not! It’s the perfect topic to get the…

  • The Thaiger unwraps the ultimate Christmas singles showdown

    The Thaiger unwraps the ultimate Christmas singles showdown

    As the countdown to Christmas goes on, The Thaiger team has decided to revisit a favourite festive argument: What are…Best Christmas Singles, Ever! Share your top picks in the comments if your favourite didn’t make the cut! No.9 (1974) Lonely This Christmas – Mud At No.9 in the festive hit parade, Lonely This Christmas by UK glam rockers Mud. The neat…

  • 7 best Christmas tree cakes in Bangkok

    7 best Christmas tree cakes in Bangkok

    Christmas is just around the corner! If you’re still finalising your holiday plans, don’t forget the show-stopping Christmas tree cake. Bangkok’s bakeries are serving up stunning, edible masterpieces that are sure to impress. From elegant designs to cute, budget-friendly creations. These cakes aren’t just desserts, they’re the centrepiece of your festive table. But act fast, pre-orders are filling up, and…

  • Thai Red Cross Fair: A fair vibe in the heart of Bangkok

    Thai Red Cross Fair: A fair vibe in the heart of Bangkok

    Mark your calendars because the Thai Red Cross Fair 2024 is back! This beloved event is taking place from December 11 to 22, and it will be Thailand’s largest charity fair, blending the nostalgia of a traditional temple fair with a lively celebration for a good cause. Held at Lumpini Park, it honours His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday while…

  • Chic Republic debuts landmark home fashion store in Phuket

    Chic Republic debuts landmark home fashion store in Phuket

    Chic Republic Public Company Limited proudly announces the grand opening of Chic Republic’s Phuket branch, marking a significant milestone as the Southern marquee’s first and only home fashion store. The grand opening also marks a breakthrough in retail innovation for Phuket’s home décor and lifestyle market as a whole. Located on Thepkasattri Road with an expansive 120-metre storefront, Chic Republic…

  • Revenue department sees 2.1% rise in revenue collection

    Revenue department sees 2.1% rise in revenue collection

    Collection by the Revenue Department has shown a notable increase in the first two months of fiscal 2025, with a 2.1% year-on-year growth. The surge is largely credited to initiatives aimed at integrating individuals outside the tax system into compliance, along with intensified measures against tax evasion. Director General Pinsai Suraswadi reported that in October, the department successfully collected 146…

  • Norovirus outbreak in Rayong prompts health guidelines

    Norovirus outbreak in Rayong prompts health guidelines

    The Department of Health issued guidelines for preventing the spread of Norovirus following a significant outbreak affecting 1,436 individuals, including students and school personnel in Klaeng district, Rayong province. The outbreak is attributed to contaminated water and ice consumed during a school sports event. Norovirus, a highly communicable virus, primarily affects children with lower immunity and is prevalent during the…

  • Where to party on Christmas in Bangkok . VOID Club or Pandora Live Music Bar

    Where to party on Christmas in Bangkok . VOID Club or Pandora Live Music Bar

    This holiday season, Bangkok’s nightlife is about to get an electrifying upgrade. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy dance party or a more laid-back live music bar, the capitol offers a range of unforgettable experiences. The Thaiger lined up two fresh faces in the nightlife scene where you can party in style for Christmas. 1. VOID Club Bangkok: Grand opening…

  • Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort releases baby sharks

    Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort releases baby sharks

    The Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort, in collaboration with Accor Thailand and Ocean For All, last month hosted an unforgettable eco-adventure that left a lasting impact. Guests had the rare opportunity to release baby Bamboo sharks into their natural habitat, fostering awareness about marine conservation while enjoying Phuket’s stunning coastline. The initiative on November 24 celebrated the resort’s commitment to preserving…

  • Myanmar babies in Thai hospitals not eligible for free healthcare

    Myanmar babies in Thai hospitals not eligible for free healthcare

    Babies born to Myanmar parents in Thailand’s border hospitals are not eligible for free healthcare benefits like Thai nationals, despite receiving a 13-digit identification number. The National Health Security Office (NHSO) clarified this policy yesterday, December 18, highlighting that these ID cards specifically categorise the newborns as migrants born in Thailand, not as Thai citizens. Dr Jadej Thammatacharee, NHSO Secretary…

  • Do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?

    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…

  • Srinagarind Hospital overwhelmed by 830% rise in cancer patients

    Srinagarind Hospital overwhelmed by 830% rise in cancer patients

    Srinagarind Hospital in Khon Kaen called on the National Health Security Office (NHSO) to address the overwhelming demand for cancer treatment, following a staggering 830% increase in patients seeking care under the Cancer Anywhere (CA) programme. Hospital director Somsak Tiamkao yesterday, December 17, highlighted that the facility is struggling to cope with the significant rise in cancer patients referred through…

  • Gordon Ramsay, TANACHIRA Group opens flagship Bread Street Kitchen & Bar

    Gordon Ramsay, TANACHIRA Group opens flagship Bread Street Kitchen & Bar

    Globally celebrated multi-Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsay, in partnership with Thailand’s leading lifestyle operator TANACHIRA Group, is set to unveil Thailand’s flagship of the chef’s internationally acclaimed Bread Street Kitchen & Bar concept in ICONSIAM, a global landmark along the Chao Phraya River. Opening late 2024, Gordon Ramsay Bread Street Kitchen & Bar at ICONSIAM will be located on Level 3,…

  • X Open Hub closes 2024 with broader liquidity pool, looks forward to 2025

    X Open Hub closes 2024 with broader liquidity pool, looks forward to 2025

    Warsaw-listed multi-asset liquidity provider X Open Hub ends 2024 on a high note. Revealing an expanded liquidity offering, the company currently boasts a multi-asset pool spanning more than 5,000 OTC instruments. With a comprehensive multi-asset bundle of Forex, indices, commodities, shares, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies under its derivatives liquidity umbrella, X Open Hub seeks to meet the demands of an increasing…

  • Where to celebrate New Year in Phuket 2025

    Where to celebrate New Year in Phuket 2025

    We can’t think of a better way to ring in the New Year than on the sun-kissed shores of Phuket. Ocean breezes whispering through the palms, glamourous soirées under the stars, the feshest seafood imaginable, and cocktails flowing like the tide – on this beautiful island, 2024 is going out in style. To make sure your New Year celebration is…

  • FBS helps traders turn 2025 resolutions into reality with Happy New Trade promo

    FBS helps traders turn 2025 resolutions into reality with Happy New Trade promo

    Leading global broker FBS has just launched its promotional campaign Happy New Trade. The promo is designed to help traders turn their new year’s resolutions into reality. Running until January 26, 2025, the campaign offers participants the chance to achieve more, with exclusive rewards and thrilling opportunities waiting at every level. The Happy New Trade promo transforms trading into a…

  • Does UroLift actually work? Here’s what you need to know about UroLift in Bangkok

    Does UroLift actually work? Here’s what you need to know about UroLift in Bangkok

    When it comes to health issues that are, shall we say, ‘below the belt,’ many men are understandably hesitant to seek solutions. But for the countless men experiencing the frustration of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate, finding relief without undergoing surgery is nothing short of a game-changer. If you’ve been exploring your options, chances are you’ve come…

  • Where to celebrate New Year in Bangkok 2025

    Where to celebrate New Year in Bangkok 2025

    Can you believe it? 2024 is ending, and the countdown to 2025 is officially on! It’s that time of year again to reflect on the past, embrace the present, and plan for a festive start to the New Year. And if you’re in a city like Bangkok, the options for celebrating are truly endless. From savouring a lavish feast to…

  • Bangkok’s waterways get a cleaner, greener future with ‘Pitak Tara’ canal-cleaning boats

    Bangkok’s waterways get a cleaner, greener future with ‘Pitak Tara’ canal-cleaning boats

    If you live in Bangkok, you’re probably all too familiar with its canals, or khlongs, quietly winding their way through the city. They’re part of Bangkok’s charm, a living reminder of its past as the ‘Venice of the East.’ But while these waterways have been the city’s lifelines, transporting goods and people for centuries, they’re facing a monumental challenge, pollution.…