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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    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 to do in Bangkok this weekend (January 10 to 12)

    What to do in Bangkok this weekend (January 10 to 12)

    With the cooler temperature, it’s the perfect weekend to get out and explore Bangkok! Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, there’s so much going on in our beloved city so you can make the most out of the beautiful weather. Do you want to dance, watch a movie, trade some old treasures, or simply treat yourself to some incredible…

  • Phuket’s healthcare crisis: PM pushes for cancer centre

    Phuket’s healthcare crisis: PM pushes for cancer centre

    Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra spotlighted healthcare as a critical issue for Phuket, amid public outcry and fundraising efforts to improve cancer treatment facilities on the island. At a high-level meeting held at Phuket International Airport this morning, the 38 year old Thai PM addressed the urgent need to upgrade state hospitals like Vachira Phuket Hospital to better handle diseases such…

  • Taxing times: Thailand cashes in on digital currency revolution

    Taxing times: Thailand cashes in on digital currency revolution

    Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has committed to comprehensive tax reform aimed at enhancing Thailand’s competitiveness and promoting the use of digital currency by the end of the year. During a seminar organised by the Marketing Association of Thailand, Pichai explained that the ministry’s strategy involves fostering business partnerships through incentives and attractive measures. He emphasised the necessity of revising the…

  • ICONSIAM shatters records with Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025

    ICONSIAM shatters records with Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025

    ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, through a joint venture of Siam Piwat Group, Charoen Pokphand Group (CP), and Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC) has announced its historic success. The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM has cemented Thailand’s place on the global countdown stage, attracting over 1 million attendees across three days and garnering more than…

  • EC Markets takes centre stage as elite sponsor of iFX EXPO Dubai 2025

    EC Markets takes centre stage as elite sponsor of iFX EXPO Dubai 2025

    EC Markets, a global leader in CFD trading, is proud to announce its role as an elite sponsor of the iFX EXPO Dubai 2025, the foremost gathering for the trading and fintech community. Scheduled to take place from January 14 to 16, the event promises to be a hub of innovation, collaboration, and dialogue, drawing professionals from across the globe.…

  • Blackpink’s Lisa brings the Thai par-TEA to the US

    Blackpink’s Lisa brings the Thai par-TEA to the US

    Pop sensation Lalisa Manoban, better known as Lisa from Blackpink has done it again, proving she’s the ultimate soft power queen by taking Thai tea globally. From promoting Thailand’s iconic meatballs to elevating fried egg rice, Lisa is now bringing the nation’s beloved iced tea to the world stage in a way no one saw coming. Lisa unveiled her latest…

  • Krabi snake catcher bitten by king cobra draws public support

    Krabi snake catcher bitten by king cobra draws public support

    The well-known snake catcher in Krabi is receiving support from the public after getting bitten by a giant king cobra. The incident left Sutee “Bung Cha” Naewhat in a serious condition and at risk of losing his arm. The story has gained a lot of attention given his dedication to helping others over the past 17 years. The news emerged…

  • Raise your glass to RUANG KHAO SIAM SAPPHIRE, Thailand’s very own rum

    Raise your glass to RUANG KHAO SIAM SAPPHIRE, Thailand’s very own rum

    What’s the best drink you’ve ever had? Think about it for a second. Now, imagine something better. That’s what RUANG KHAO SIAM SAPPHIRE is all about. It’s a rum so smooth and packed with flavour it’s like sipping on a little piece of history. And it’s winning hearts around the world. Let’s explore what makes RUANG KHAO SIAM SAPPHIRE so…

  • Elderly cash windfall: Thai govt handouts confirmed by January 29

    Elderly cash windfall: Thai govt handouts confirmed by January 29

    The Thai government has officially confirmed that elderly citizens will receive their long-awaited 10,000 baht stimulus payments before January 29. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, spilled the beans during a press conference at the Ministry of Finance today, January 7. “We assure you, the 10,000-baht payments will hit accounts before the deadline. The exact transfer date hinges on a final…

  • Thai health minister reassures public over hMPV concerns

    Thai health minister reassures public over hMPV concerns

    Thai Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin addressed concerns about the spread of the human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China yesterday, January 6 at the Department of Health Service Support. The minister explained that hMPV is a seasonal virus that occurs annually and is self-limiting, often resolving without medical intervention. In previous years, such common illnesses were not highlighted, as they typically…

  • How to ride a bus in Bangkok

    How to ride a bus in Bangkok

    Beyond Bangkok’s reliable BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems, the city also offers an extensive bus network that continues to serve as a vital transportation option for residents and visitors. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and Thai Smile Bus (TSB) operate a comprehensive fleet of buses that will help you get around Bangkok. Plus, it is a nice and cheaper…

  • Don’t miss out on Jungceylon’s Giant Dogs Meet Friends festival!

    Don’t miss out on Jungceylon’s Giant Dogs Meet Friends festival!

    Jungceylon Shopping Centre, Patong, Phuket is preparing to host a Children’s Day event called Jungceylon Kids Day 2025 x Giant Dog. Also dubbed the Giant Dogs Meet Friends festival, the event’s highlight features gentle giants of various breeds including Newfoundland, Caucasian Shepherd, and Alaskan Malamute, among others. Visitors can enjoy performances from the playful furry friends in the dog talents…

  • BYDFi’s perpetual trading upgrade: Trading flexibility and asset security

    BYDFi’s perpetual trading upgrade: Trading flexibility and asset security

    BYDFi officially announced that the upgrade of the platform’s perpetual trading system has been completed. The upgrade not only improves core trading functionalities but also introduces three important functions of innovation and optimisation, which comprehensively improve users’ trading flexibility and asset security. Unrealised profits open new positions When a user holds a profitable position in the course of trading but…

  • Gold rush hour: Steady prices spark buyer frenzy in Thailand

    Gold rush hour: Steady prices spark buyer frenzy in Thailand

    Today’s gold prices in Thailand hold steady, sparking a sense of urgency among potential buyers. According to the Gold Traders Association (GTA), gold jewellery is priced at 43,650 baht per baht weight, mirroring closing figures yesterday, January 5. As announced at 9am today, 96.5% pure gold bullion is being bought at 43,050 baht per baht weight and sold at 43,150…

  • Thailand’s new e-visa system targets African tourists in travel boost

    Thailand’s new e-visa system targets African tourists in travel boost

    The Embassy of Thailand rolled out the e-visa carpet for nine African nations on January 1 in a further bid to boost tourism. The popular e-visa programme is designed to bolster security and streamline the application process, as reported by VisaGuide.World. By simplifying the visa procedure, Thailand hopes to lure more visitors, vital for its thriving tourism sector. While Thailand’s…

  • 5 festivals in Phuket that are unmissable

    5 festivals in Phuket that are unmissable

    Festivals in Thailand are an important part of Phuket life as the largest island in the kingdom is rich in history. The calendar is filled with traditional festivals and newly created events all year. Some of these happen throughout the country, while others are exclusive to the people of Phuket. Here is Metadee’s pick of the five best festivals in…

  • A taste of Italy: Bella Sera lunch experience

    A taste of Italy: Bella Sera lunch experience

    Bella Sera, the renowned Italian restaurant located on the second floor of Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, is excited to announce that it is now open for lunch, offering guests the unique opportunity to enjoy the essence of Italian cuisine during the day. Previously available only for dinner, Bella Sera now welcomes guests to sample its set lunch menus and à la…

  • Bitcoin soars as ETFs and halving spark a crypto frenzy

    Bitcoin soars as ETFs and halving spark a crypto frenzy

    Bitcoin soared to dizzying heights last year, propelled by a swarm of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) introduced in January and April’s dramatic supply-halving event. These triggers, combined with a surge of interest from institutional investors, catapulted Bitcoin into the limelight, transforming it into a mainstream asset category. The crypto kingpin shattered records, peaking at an astounding US$100,000 in early…

  • Mark your calendars for January 11! Klingande returns to Bangkok

    Mark your calendars for January 11! Klingande returns to Bangkok

    The wait is over! Klingande, the French DJ and producer behind the global hit Jubel, is coming back to Bangkok. On January 11, music lovers at Escape Bangkok at EmQuartier are set for a night to remember with melodic house, live instrumentation, and of course, who can forget the signature Klingande style! Pioneer of melodic house Klingande is renowned for…

  • Heart-stopping error: Patient sent to the wrong hospital by volunteer

    Heart-stopping error: Patient sent to the wrong hospital by volunteer

    The National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM) is investigating a recent incident involving a red uniform volunteer who allegedly delayed critical heart treatment by transporting a patient to the wrong hospital. The issue arose after the patient’s relatives reported an emergency on December 28 through the 1669 hotline, expecting advanced ambulance care due to the severity of the situation. However,…

  • The best schools in Cherng Talay, Phuket

    The best schools in Cherng Talay, Phuket

    Cherng Talay, a thriving area in Phuket, has become a go-to destination for families seeking quality education for their children. With its mix of a growing expat community and proximity to popular beaches, the demand for excellent schools has increased. To help you navigate your choices, here are some of the best schools in Cherng Talay, covering everything from their…

  • What to do in Bangkok this weekend (January 3 to 5)

    What to do in Bangkok this weekend (January 3 to 5)

    It’s the first weekend of 2025! If you’re like us, you probably have plenty you want to do this weekend in Bangkok. Should you kick off your New Year’s resolutions, like starting meditation or going for a run? Or should you keep the celebrations going with delicious feasts and dancing the night away? If you’re in Bangkok, why choose? You…

  • Moo Deng: Thailand’s personality of the year

    Moo Deng: Thailand’s personality of the year

    Time magazine’s annual selection for Person of the Year often reflects on the individuals who have captured global attention. While it is usually presidents and influential figures, it is clear here in Thailand who truly deserves the title. Forget the political icons—our beloved Moo Deng, the pint-sized pygmy hippo, has captured hearts, taken over social media, and established herself as…

  • Thailand expands 30-baht healthcare scheme nationwide

    Thailand expands 30-baht healthcare scheme nationwide

    Thailand has extended its Treatment Anywhere 30-baht universal healthcare scheme to cover the entire nation, with the initiative now active in the remaining 31 provinces. This marks the completion of the scheme’s fourth and final phase since being introduced by the National Health Security Office (NHSO). According to Athaporn Limpanylers, deputy secretary-general of the NHSO, the initiative now encompasses all…

  • Where to celebrate New Year in Pattaya 2025

    Where to celebrate New Year in Pattaya 2025

    It’s the final day of 2024! Can you believe how quickly the year has flown by? As we prepare to bid farewell to all the highs and lows of the past year, it’s only fitting to welcome 2025 with a celebration to remember. Fortunately, New Year’s Eve in Pattaya is always lively, festive, and everything a party should be. If…

  • Where to celebrate New Year in Koh Samui 2025

    Where to celebrate New Year in Koh Samui 2025

    It’s getting close, but if your New Year’s plans in Koh Samui are still up in the air, don’t stress. The island knows how to do celebrations right, and there’s no shortage of options. From DJs spinning till sunrise to elegant dinners and low-key vibes, here’s where you should be heading to welcome 2025 in Koh Samui. The 10 best…

  • Is it worth going to Thailand in January?

    Is it worth going to Thailand in January?

    Is it worth visiting Thailand in January? Thailand is a popular destination with beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and friendly people. January is part of the peak season, offering cool and dry weather that’s perfect for exploring cities like Bangkok, relaxing on Phuket’s beaches, and enjoying outdoor activities. With little rain and comfortable temperatures, it’s a great time for sightseeing, adventure,…

  • La Tavola: The perfect spot for an intimate celebration in Bangkok

    La Tavola: The perfect spot for an intimate celebration in Bangkok

    Whether you’re planning a New Year’s Eve celebration or looking for a place for an intimate hang-out with friends, La Tavola is the spot for you. Located in the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, La Tavola is easily accessible by BTS and just minutes from centralWorld – the Times Square of Asia with the largest Christmas tree in Bangkok and the…

  • How much does it cost to see a doctor in Thailand?

    How much does it cost to see a doctor in Thailand?

    Thailand is known for its high-quality yet affordable healthcare system, but how much does it really cost to see a doctor? As an expat, this question might be crucial for budgeting your health needs. The answer depends on whether you have health insurance or not, and the difference can be significant. Let’s explore the costs, compare insured versus uninsured expenses,…

  • Thai health ministry warns against fake medical certificates

    Thai health ministry warns against fake medical certificates

    The Thai Ministry of Public Health has issued a stern warning to medical facilities against issuing fake medical certificates to foreign workers. Such actions could result in severe penalties, including a maximum two-year prison sentence and a 40,000 baht fine. Phanuwat Panket, Director-General of the Department of Health Service Support (HSS), expressed concerns about potential malpractice by hospitals in issuing…