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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    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....

  • Behind the scenes of Thailand’s film industry: Meet the film fixers | Thaiger

    Behind the scenes of Thailand’s film industry: Meet the film fixers

    Thailand is one of Asia’s hottest filming destinations, and not just for its postcard-perfect beaches and temples. In 2024 alone, nearly 500 international productions were filmed across the country, generating close to US$194 million in revenue. From the streets of Bangkok to the jungles up north and the shores of Phuket, productions took place in 64 provinces, proving that Thailand…

  • A step by step guide to getting the Thai Student Visa (Non-Immigrant ED) | Thaiger

    A step by step guide to getting the Thai Student Visa (Non-Immigrant ED)

    The Thaiger key takeaways The Non-Immigrant ED visa allows foreign students to study legally in Thailand, covering universities, language schools, and training courses. Applicants must enrol in an accredited institution, apply online via the Thai E-Visa system, and complete 90-day reporting after arrival. The ED Plus visa offers university students an added benefit, which is a one-year post-graduation stay to…

  • Thai FDA clears shelves of deadly US listeria pasta scare | Thaiger

    Thai FDA clears shelves of deadly US listeria pasta scare

    Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA) confirmed that two US pasta products recalled over listeria fears were not imported or sold in the country, easing local health concerns. On high alert after a deadly outbreak in the United States, the Thai FDA launched an urgent investigation following a report from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • A foreigner’s guide to getting a Thai driver’s license in Thailand | Thaiger

    A foreigner’s guide to getting a Thai driver’s license in Thailand

    Getting a driver’s license in Thailand as a foreigner is a structured process managed by the Department of Land Transport (DLT). There is a complex process of proving your legal status and residency in the country. This guide breaks down the exact requirements and steps you must follow. 1. The first hurdle: Visa and residency requirements Before you even book…

  • 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,…

  • 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…

  • Thai herbal inhalers get radiation reboot after contamination scare | Thaiger

    Thai herbal inhalers get radiation reboot after contamination scare

    A Thai herbal inhalant brand partnered with nuclear experts after authorities discovered contamination, prompting urgent safety upgrades and sterilisation efforts. Hong Thai, a popular manufacturer of herbal inhalers, has joined forces with the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT) to sterilise its products using radiation. The move comes after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found microbial contamination in Formula…