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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Do we celebrate Christmas in Thailand?
Are you trading a white Christmas with a tropical one this year? Thailand is a majority Buddhist country, with about 95% of the population following the faith, so the local people don’t traditionally celebrate Christmas. However, the festive cheer is far from absent. In fact, Thais have found their own way of joining the seasonal celebrations, often with a unique…
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What is the Maneki Neko (lucky cat) in Thai shops
Stroll around the neighbourhoods in Bangkok or anywhere else in Thailand, and you’ll spot tiny cats waving at you with one paw in a steady motion. They sit near tills, on restaurant counters, and in the corners of tiny market stalls. You’ll see them in other parts of the world, too, most often in a Chinatown. These cats are the…
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Siam Paragon unveils a global first launch of the co-creating ‘NEXTOPIA, Prototype for The World of Tomorrow’
Siam Paragon has announced the launch of NEXTOPIA, The Prototype for World of Tomorrow, a new large-scale attraction co-created with global innovation partners, businesses, communities, and changemakers. The development marks a significant evolution in Thailand’s experiential retail scene and introduces an immersive, sustainability-focused concept located across 15,000 square metres on Floors 5 and 5A of Siam Paragon. Representing an investment…
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Hungry Hub sets sights to expand into Malaysia as they ramps up their global OTA ambitions
Hungry Hub, Thailand’s leading one-stop online restaurant and hotel reservation platform, held the Hungry Hub Red Table Awards 2025 to recognise and honour top restaurant and hotel partners who have delivered outstanding experiences throughout the year. The event featured more than 48 prestigious awards across all categories, including Best Chain Restaurant, Best Rooftop Restaurant, Best Fine Dining, and Rising Star…
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10 restaurants in Thailand have newly awarded for the Michelin Star in Thailand [2026 edition]
The Michelin Guide Thailand 2026 edition has officially been unveiled, showcasing the latest full selection of 468 dining venues. According to the announcement on the official Michelin Guide website, the list includes: 2 Three Michelin Star restaurants (1 promoted from Two Michelin Stars) 8 Two Michelin Star restaurants (2 promoted from One Michelin Star) 33 One Michelin Star restaurants (3…
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808 Festival 2025 rolls out Phase 2 lineup, and it’s as stacked as ever
Thailand’s flagship electronic music event, 808 Festival, is set to return to Bangkok from December 5 to 7, 2025, at BITEC Bangna. Just before the main event, organisers have revealed the Phase 2 artist roster, adding even more international firepower to an already explosive lineup. From bass house to hard techno, DJs and producers are flying in from across the…
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Festive journeys at 7th Floor Restaurant to celebrate the season of flavour & joy
This festive season, 7th Floor Restaurant at Sole Mio Boutique Hotel & Wellness invites guests to celebrate two unforgettable evenings above the lights of Bang Tao. From heartwarming Christmas dining to a dazzling New Year’s countdown, every moment is crafted to inspire togetherness, taste, and celebration — all enjoyed from the only rooftop in Bang Tao offering panoramic views of…
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BigC Thailand Lucky Landing wins big and gives tourists a new reason to shop in Thailand
The Thaiger key takeaways BigC won the Gold Award for Excellence in Retail and Shopper Marketing for its BigC Thailand Lucky Landing campaign. The campaign saw rapid growth on XHS, with major increases in followers, engagement and post views. Online excitement led to real results in stores, including higher footfall and strong coupon redemption rates. Visitors coming to Thailand always…
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What to do in Bangkok this weekend (November 28 to 30)
Somehow, we’ve already reached the last weekend of November! The mood is starting to become a little bit festive as the holiday season approaches, with malls and hotels rolling out Christmas events. But there are still plenty of other things to do, too. There are cosy food events, easygoing markets, live music sessions, and a few small surprises dotted around…
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British, American, or IB curriculum in Thailand: Which one actually fits your child?
Choosing the right curriculum is one of the most important decisions expat parents make when relocating to Thailand. With a growing number of international schools across the country, families often find themselves comparing the British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB) systems. Each curriculum offers unique strengths and philosophies, but which one best fits your child’s learning style, goals, and personality?…
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Trade together: Learn strategies from global pros with copy trading & social trading on FP Markets
Before the internet connected everything, trading was truly a solo activity. Knowledge was limited to books or passed along within small circles. Whoever suffered a loss felt the pain quietly alone. Whoever discovered a good strategy might keep it for themselves. But times have changed. Today, the world of trading has entered an era of connectivity. Two terms have taken…
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What is the claims process for expat health insurance?
The Thaiger key takeaways Most expat claims move through a mix of direct billing at partner hospitals and reimbursement when treatment is paid upfront. Digital submission is now the standard route, with processing times usually tied to how complete the documents are. Ongoing support, status updates, and follow-ups tend to run through 24/7 customer channels, keeping communication consistent throughout the…
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How to use Thailand’s toll roads: Easy Pass, M-PASS, M-Flow & More
If you’re driving in Thailand, whether as an expat, long-term visitor, or local, you’ll likely encounter tollways. These roads save time, cut through city congestion, and connect provinces. But using them isn’t always intuitive. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating Thailand’s expressways, including when to pay, how to get a pass, and tips to avoid fines or delays. On this…
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What is ‘face’ in Thailand and how to avoid losing it (for anyone and yourself)
If you are new to life in Thailand, there is one cultural idea that will help you settle in far more smoothly than memorising phrases or learning the bus routes. It is the concept of face and it has nothing to do with your appearance. It is about dignity, respect, and how people are perceived by those around them. Once…
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Thaiwatsadu and BnB Home Under Central Retail roll out grand ‘Carnival Nutcracker’ Christmas décor universe
Thaiwatsadu and BnB Home, Under Central Retail, the leading retailer of construction materials and home products, are ringing in the 2025 festive season with the launch of their Grand Christmas Decoration Universe. Presented under the theme Carnival Nutcracker, the campaign transforms every store into a one-stop Christmas décor destination, offering over 2,000 Christmas items, from premium fresh-cut trees imported from…
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Which countries are exempted from needing a visa to come to Thailand?
When planning a trip to Thailand, one of the first questions many travellers ask is, “Do I need a visa to enter?” The answer depends on your nationality and the length of your intended stay. As of 2025, Thailand has updated its visa exemption and tourist visa policies, aiming to make travel more flexible and attractive for a wider range…
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Expat guide to Thailand’s healthcare system: Public vs private hospitals compared
The Thaiger key takeaways Thailand offers dependable healthcare through both public and private hospitals, each with strengths that suit different needs and budgets. Public hospitals provide skilled doctors and low-cost care, though the process moves at a slower pace with longer queues. Private hospitals offer fast service, English-friendly staff, and modern facilities, but come with higher prices that are easier…
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How to make sure that your health insurance meets Thailand’s visa requirements
If you plan to stay in Thailand for a long time, you must have health insurance that meets the country’s visa rules. This applies to Retirement (O-A and O-X) visas and Long-Term Resident (LTR) visas. Each visa type requires a minimum level of coverage for both inpatient and outpatient care, and some also need Covid-19 protection. Several approved Thai insurance…
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10 Best restaurants in Asoke, Bangkok
The Thaiger key takeaways This neighbourhood is one of Bangkok’s busiest eating zones, lined with Thai diners, brunch favourites, Japanese joints and some of the city’s most reliable pizza. Its central location and direct BTS/MRT access make it one of the easiest areas in Bangkok for visitors to explore through food. This curated list highlights the best restaurants worth checking,…
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Kora Sky rooftop shines as Miss Universe welcome dinner host in Phuket
Kora Sky Rooftop Lounge by Kora Beach Resort Phuket officially opened its doors on November 8, 2025, hosting the spectacular and exclusive Moonlight Sky Gala welcome dinner for the 74th Miss Universe. The inaugural evening marked both the grand debut of Phuket’s most anticipated new venue and the beginning of the international pageant’s activities in Phuket, welcoming contestants and distinguished…
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What to do in Bangkok this weekend (November 21 to 23)
Bangkok feels a little quieter this month, but there are still plenty of things to check out if you want to get out of the house. Some galleries are staying open late, a few neighbourhood spots are running small community events and there are food pop ups that make the weekend feel a bit more fun. Here’s our curated list…
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Overstay rules in Thailand: What happens, how much it costs, and how to resolve it
The Thaiger key takeaways Thailand enforces strict fines and penalties for staying beyond your permitted date, with no official grace period. Short overstays usually mean fines, while longer overstays can lead to bans, detention, or deportation. Resolving the issue quickly, either by leaving or contacting immigration, is essential to avoid serious consequences If you’ve ever lost track of dates while…
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‘The Magical Stars’: Disney-themed fairytale kingdom rolls out nationwide
Central Pattana plc, Thailand’s leading sustainable real estate developer and operator of Central shopping centres nationwide, is joining forces with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and The Walt Disney (Thailand) to create a global year-end festive sensation with ‘The Magical Stars’. The campaign introduces four Disney-themed fairytale kingdoms, highlighted by a signature Christmas tree and 3-metre-tall Mickey Mouse and…
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5 Reasons You shouldn’t visit Thailand
Is Thailand right for you? If you value diversity, LGBTQ+ rights, and chaotic fun, pack your bags. If not, read this warning first. A guide to the Land of Smiles true colors. OPINION: Let’s be honest. Thailand has a reputation. Depending on who you ask, it’s the ultimate backpacker’s paradise, a culinary wonderland, or the land of golden temples and…
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Blue by Alain Ducasse at ICONSIAM marks its sixth anniversary with a celebration of vision and flavour
Blue by Alain Ducasse, the award-winning and Michelin-starred French restaurant at ICONLUXE, 1st Floor, ICONSIAM, celebrates its sixth anniversary this month with a visit by the legendary chef Alain Ducasse. To mark the occasion, Executive Chef Evens López has created a special Découverte Menu, honouring the spirit of creativity, precision, and harmony that have defined the Blue’s journey since its…
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Does eating sugar equal killing ourselves? What research really says about ‘slow death’ from sugar
Social media has been sharing quotes like “eating sugar = slowly killing yourself,” to the point that some people are now more afraid of mango sticky rice than cigarettes. In reality, cutting out sweetness completely is impossible. So the question is: when we look strictly at medical research, is sugar really that harmful, or is the real issue the way…
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Thailand pushes sustainable gem industry with GIT standard programmes
The Gem and Jewellery Institute of Thailand, or GIT, has launched a new national initiative to advance Thailand’s position as a global hub for sustainable gem and jewellery production. The programme, titled Thailand Towards a World Sustainable Gem and Jewellery Hub, aims to help SMEs meet international standards in sustainability, governance, and environmental responsibility as global trade rules continue to…
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Find your perfect storage space in Bangkok with i-StoreGo: Convenient, safe, and hassle-free
Bangkok is often thought of as a city where space is of the essence (and a luxury). From growing families living in condos to entrepreneurs running small businesses, everyone faces the same problem: not enough room. Whether it’s seasonal clothes, extra furniture, or business inventory, clutter can quickly take over working space before spilling into your personal living areas. That’s…
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Is expat health insurance in Thailand actually worth it?
The Thaiger key takeaways Foreigners aren’t covered by public healthcare, making private hospital costs a major concern. Insurance offers financial protection and access to better medical care. Whether it’s worth it depends on your stay length, health, lifestyle, and budget. Thailand is a favourite destination for expats, known for its warm weather, rich culture, and affordable lifestyle. But as more…
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What parents should know about homeschooling in Thailand
The Thaiger key takeaways Homeschooling is legal in Thailand but only permitted for children with Thai citizenship and requires official approval from local education authorities. Parents must submit a detailed education plan, choose a curriculum, and provide yearly progress reports for accreditation. Families can follow Thai, international, or blended curricula, but must ensure proper certification for future schooling or university…
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