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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    Why retirees in Thailand are choosing long-term health insurance over quick fixes

    Retirees in Thailand are increasingly seeing the importance of health insurance in protecting their well-being during retirement. With insurance requirements for retirement visas and rising healthcare costs, many are moving away from short-term plans and choosing long-term coverage. Long-term health...

  • IHG Hotels & Resorts announces senior appointments ahead of the opening of Thailand’s first voco hotel | Thaiger

    IHG Hotels & Resorts announces senior appointments ahead of the opening of Thailand’s first voco hotel

    IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, is pleased to announce the senior leadership team at voco Bangkok Surawong, with Walid Ouezini appointed as General Manager, Wipusana Sriwieng as Director of Sales & Marketing, and Patthira Weir as Director of Marketing Communications. Slated to open in late 2025, the hotel will mark the debut of IHG’s…

  • Kora Beach Resort Phuket makes dazzling debut with grand opening on Bangtao Beach | Thaiger

    Kora Beach Resort Phuket makes dazzling debut with grand opening on Bangtao Beach

    On 9 August, a new pearl began to shine along Bangtao and Phuket’s pristine shoreline as Kora Beach Resort Phuket proudly celebrated two unforgettable milestones: Official opening ceremony of Kora Beach Resort Phuket As sunset painted the Andaman Sea in brilliant hues of gold and coral, Kora Beach Resort Phuket welcomed guests to the Official Opening Ceremony, marking the start…

  • Kao unveils the ‘Kirei World’ Experience: Inspiring sustainable living through innovation at NST Fair 2025 | Thaiger

    Kao unveils the ‘Kirei World’ Experience: Inspiring sustainable living through innovation at NST Fair 2025

    Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese manufacturer of consumer and chemical products, has presented its immersive Kirei World Tour experience at the National Science and Technology Fair 2025 (NST Fair 2025), organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation under the theme Science in Action for Sustainable Community. The fair showcases Kao’s vision of creating…

  • Kristian Petersen appointed as General Manager of Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok | Thaiger

    Kristian Petersen appointed as General Manager of Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok

    Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok is delighted to announce the appointment of Kristian Petersen as General Manager, effective August 4. A veteran hospitality leader with over 20 years of experience with Marriott International, Kristian brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, pre-opening strategy, and brand transformation across Asia Pacific and Europe. Kristian most recently served as General Manager of…

  • Hidden gems for Bangkok foodies | Thaiger

    Hidden gems for Bangkok foodies

    Let’s be honest, Bangkok’s food scene is no secret. From high-flying rooftops to humble street carts, there’s no shortage of places to fill your boots. But what about the tucked-away treasures? The off-the-radar spots you stumble upon and immediately want to keep to yourself? This one’s for the curious eaters, the adventurous diners, and anyone tired of the same old…

  • What to do in Bangkok this weekend (August 15 to 17) | Thaiger

    What to do in Bangkok this weekend (August 15 to 17)

    Bangkok weekends are never short of surprises, and this one’s serving up plenty to keep you moving, sipping, reading, and wandering. From free swing sessions under the trees to art-filled nights inside converted warehouses, boredom won’t be in your vocabulary this mid-August. Here are some of the best things to do in Bangkok this weekend (August 15 to 17) Things to do…

  • Planning to extend your Thai visa? Why health insurance is more important than ever | Thaiger

    Planning to extend your Thai visa? Why health insurance is more important than ever

    If you plan to stay longer in Thailand, having health insurance is now more important than ever. Thai immigration often asks for proof of medical coverage when you apply to extend your visa. This applies to many types of visas, like retirement or long-term stay. Choosing a plan from a trusted company like Cigna can make the process easier and…

  • Rhythm of Thailand: TAT’s mission to discover Thai charms | Thaiger

    Rhythm of Thailand: TAT’s mission to discover Thai charms

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) continues to boost Thailand’s tourism momentum with its ‘Be My Guest’ project, in collaboration with the National Soft Power Strategy Committee (or Subcommittee for Tourism Industry Development under the National Soft Power Strategy Committee). The initiative drives the government’s soft power policy, intending to position Thailand as a leading global destination, while presenting the…

  • Bangkok at dawn: A guide for morning people | Thaiger

    Bangkok at dawn: A guide for morning people

    Mornings in Bangkok feel like a quiet rebellion against the city’s usual chaos, no traffic, no sweat (yet), just movement and misty light. The sky trains hum almost empty. Streets lie open and unhurried, the air still cool, as if the city itself is taking a long, slow breath before the day begins. Some people simply aren’t morning people, and…

  • Wednesday season 2 on Netflix: Jenna Ortega, Lady Gaga, and new gothic thrills | Thaiger

    Wednesday season 2 on Netflix: Jenna Ortega, Lady Gaga, and new gothic thrills

    If you’ve been counting down the days to return to Nevermore Academy, the wait is finally over. Wednesday season 2 has officially landed on Netflix, premiering on August 6, just shy of three years after the debut season became a global hit. Starring Jenna Ortega in her iconic gothic role and featuring the much-anticipated arrival of Lady Gaga in a…

  • Mastering the foundations: A comprehensive guide to technical analysis theories | Thaiger

    Mastering the foundations: A comprehensive guide to technical analysis theories

    Technical analysis offers a structured approach to determining what to trade, when to enter the market, and how long to remain involved. Its core principle is simple: every known fact—economic or otherwise—is already reflected in the price. Thus, by observing price and volume alone, traders can discern patterns of crowd psychology and, in turn, anticipate future movements. In practice, any…

  • Not sure what to do for Mother’s Day in Bangkok? Here are some lovely ways to celebrate | Thaiger

    Not sure what to do for Mother’s Day in Bangkok? Here are some lovely ways to celebrate

    It’s Mother’s Day in Thailand tomorrow! Have you made plans yet? If not, there’s still plenty of time to surprise the matriarchs in your life with something thoughtful. The day is celebrated on August 12 to honour Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s birthday, and in Bangkok that means restaurants, cafés, and attractions are ready with special menus, offers, and experiences. From…

  • Pay Thai car tax in minutes with new app: DLT (video) | Thaiger

    Pay Thai car tax in minutes with new app: DLT (video)

    Paying your annual car tax just got a whole lot easier—and you won’t even have to leave the sofa. The Department of Land Transport (DLT), in partnership with Krungthai Bank, has launched a groundbreaking service allowing drivers to pay their annual vehicle tax via the Pao Tang app. Officials say the move will save time, cut travel costs, and make…

  • How is Mother’s Day celebrated in Thailand? | Thaiger

    How is Mother’s Day celebrated in Thailand?

    Mother’s Day in Thailand is a special holiday filled with love and respect. It takes place every year on August 12, which is the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. On this day, people across the country honour her as the Mother of the Nation and also take time to show appreciation for their mothers. It’s a day full…

  • Best weed shops in Khaosan Road, Bangkok [2025] | Thaiger

    Best weed shops in Khaosan Road, Bangkok [2025]

    “Can you still buy cannabis on Khaosan Road?” That’s probably the question on your mind after seeing the headlines. A lot has happened in Thailand’s cannabis scene over the past several weeks. New regulations were introduced, some dispensaries were forced to close, and at the same time, new ones opened their doors. Yes, it can sound a bit confusing, especially…

  • Admire Bespoke Tailor: Elegance, luxury and your style statement | Thaiger

    Admire Bespoke Tailor: Elegance, luxury and your style statement

    Admire Bespoke Tailor, a premium custom tailor in Bangkok, is renowned for its approach, which balances traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. The tailor is no stranger to creating elegant, high-quality suits for clients from Thailand and around the world, where each piece is made with luxury in mind while also matching your style. Admire Bespoke Tailors: Suits that tell your…

  • Digital nomading in Phuket, is it still worth it in 2025? | Thaiger

    Digital nomading in Phuket, is it still worth it in 2025?

    Phuket has been a popular spot for digital nomads for many years, due to its sunny beaches, friendly international crowd, and modern coworking spaces. This year, it still draws remote workers with its low cost of living, good internet, and relaxed island lifestyle. You can work during the day and enjoy the beach or nightlife in the evening. But with…

  • What to do in Bangkok this weekend (August 8 to 10) | Thaiger

    What to do in Bangkok this weekend (August 8 to 10)

    The only annoying thing about the weekend in a city like Bangkok is deciding what to do. There’s too much happening, too many pop-ups to browse, exhibitions to catch before they’re gone, and film screenings you’ll kick yourself for missing. More often than not, you end up wishing you can be at several different places at once than actually making…

  • Mental health meltdown grips Thailand’s pre-seniors | Thaiger

    Mental health meltdown grips Thailand’s pre-seniors

    Thailand’s middle-aged adults are facing an emotional breaking point—and it’s worse than any other age group, according to a new health report. A total of 13.4 million people in Thailand are struggling with mental health issues, and those aged 45 to 59—the so-called “pre-senior” generation 98—report being the least happy, according to the Thai Health Report 2025. Released on Monday…

  • Pattaya empowers teens with ‘Happy School’ workshops | Thaiger

    Pattaya empowers teens with ‘Happy School’ workshops

    Forget boring lectures—Pattaya’s young leaders got hands-on with happiness this week in a workshop-driven celebration of National Youth Day 2025. Yesterday, August 6 at 9am, the city kicked off its official youth programme at Le Bali Resort & Spa, with Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet presiding over the opening ceremony. Themed Happy School, the event encouraged student leaders from 11 local…

  • Thai woman’s ‘fat belly’ was 8kg cyst shock | Thaiger

    Thai woman’s ‘fat belly’ was 8kg cyst shock

    What looked like a bulging belly from too much food turned out to be an 8-kilogramme tumour—and the woman had no idea. A 31 year old Thai woman named Ratchanaporn from Satun province lived for years with a massive ovarian cyst growing inside her abdomen, completely unaware of its presence. Her family assumed she was overweight due to her eating…

  • Pre-existing conditions? These expat insurance plans still have you covered | Thaiger

    Pre-existing conditions? These expat insurance plans still have you covered

    Many expats feel worried that their pre-existing health problems will stop them from getting insurance in a new country. This fear is common, especially when medical care can be expensive. But the good news is, some insurance, like the plans you can get from Cigna, understand such anxieties and offer plans that may still cover those conditions. These plans give…

  • Smash Into Pieces – ‘ArmaHeaven Prophecy’ Live in Bangkok | Thaiger

    Smash Into Pieces – ‘ArmaHeaven Prophecy’ Live in Bangkok

    Brace yourself, Bangkok! Sweden’s renowned cinematic rock band, Smash Into Pieces, is bringing their electrifying ArmaHeaven Prophecy tour to Samyan Mitrtown Hall in Bangkok on Wednesday, August 20. This concert marks the launch of Chapter IX in the Smash Into Pieces saga. Following their success with the Ghost Code album, get ready for their most ambitious live production yet. Fans…

  • Thailand’s vape ban gets WHO seal of approval | Thaiger

    Thailand’s vape ban gets WHO seal of approval

    The World Health Organisation (WHO) has endorsed Thailand’s ongoing prohibition on importing and selling e-cigarettes, while the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) has committed to reducing vaping among young people through a “denormalisation” initiative. WHO Thailand senior public health specialist Dr Olivia Nieveras said that Thailand’s e-cigarette ban aligns with empirical evidence on the harm caused by vaping products and…

  • Thailand plans tax break on foreign income | Thaiger

    Thailand plans tax break on foreign income

    The Thai Revenue Department is fast-tracking new legislation to exempt Thai citizens from income tax on earnings sourced from abroad within the current year. Revenue Department Director-General Pinsai Suraswadi stated that the proposed law would exempt Thai citizens from income tax if they bring foreign-sourced income into Thailand within two years of earning it. The details are under discussion at…

  • Received a scam call from a ‘bank staff’ or ‘police officer’? Here’s what you should do | Thaiger

    Received a scam call from a ‘bank staff’ or ‘police officer’? Here’s what you should do

    Phone scams are a common issue in Thailand, with fraudsters frequently impersonating police officers, bank staff, or other officials to deceive victims into handing over sensitive information or transferring money. Just this morning, I had the mispleasure of accepting a call from a spoof number to hear a second of silence followed by an unfamiliar voice. It was unconvincing immediately…

  • New international flight routes to Thailand in 2025 | Thaiger

    New international flight routes to Thailand in 2025

    The Thaiger’s key takeaways New flights from Europe and the U.S., including the first U.S. airline route to Bangkok in decades. Regional growth in Asia as airlines are expanding direct routes from countries like India and Indonesia. Bangkok, as a key hub, is attracting Middle Eastern airlines that are increasing flight capacity and using Bangkok as a central point to connect to…

  • ICONSIAM reaffirms Thailand’s status as a global luxury destination | Thaiger

    ICONSIAM reaffirms Thailand’s status as a global luxury destination

    ICONSIAM, a flagship project developed by Siam Piwat Group in joint venture with Charoen Pokphand Group (CP) and Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC), continues to fortify its position as Thailand’s leading global destination. The iconic landmark draws world-renowned luxury brands to elevate the shopping experience at ICONLUXE, a zone housing over 30 luxury brands. Recent additions include renowned brands such…

  • Phuket’s boldest new lifestyle hotel! TRIBE Phuket Patong brings edge and energy to Thailand’s most famous beach town | Thaiger

    Phuket’s boldest new lifestyle hotel! TRIBE Phuket Patong brings edge and energy to Thailand’s most famous beach town

    Just like the beach town it calls home, TRIBE Phuket Patong is full of character. Freshly opened in July 2025, this new hotel in Phuket brings a youthful energy that’s both functional and fun to the area, with bold design and urban-meets-tropical interiors. Walk through its front doors, and it’s clear that this is a hotel that understands the tempo…

  • Vroom vroom therapy and Thailand’s ongoing love affair with motorsports | Thaiger

    Vroom vroom therapy and Thailand’s ongoing love affair with motorsports

    Imagine you’re in an expat bar in Thailand, and on the TV they show a news report for Thailand having the F1 race in Bangkok 2028. After hearing this, you might wonder to yourself or aloud, “Thailand likes racing?!” Oh, little do you know. Let’s get one thing straight: Thailand LOVES racing and motorsports. For those who think motorsports is…