Thai Life
Thailand guides, travel tips, cultural insights, and essential local information—discover everything you need to know about living, visiting, and experiencing the Land of Smiles. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for Thailand guides.
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Sponsored 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?...
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Meet Utopia Corporation, the real estate developer building dreams in Phuket
Phuket has always been a place of dreams. With its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and rich culture, it’s no wonder people from all over the world are drawn to its shores. But what if this island could offer more than a luxurious escape? What if it could provide a home for everyone, where living is not just about comfort but…
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What’s new with Thailand’s LTR Visa? Here’s what you need to know about the update
Have you been dreaming of living and working in Thailand? If yes, there’s never been a better time than today, as the Thai government just updated the qualifications, criteria, and conditions for the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa programme. Thanks to these changes, the visa is now more inclusive, family-friendly, and accessible than ever before. Here’s the lowdown on what’s new,…
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The Island Collection Villas, where luxury meets tranquillity in Phuket’s most sought-after location
Phuket has seen a strong comeback in property value, especially for high-end villas and condos close to exclusive beaches like Layan. And as tropical island living becomes more attractive than ever, buyers seek properties that offer both luxury and serenity. Completed in November 2024 with just nine exclusive pool villas available, The Island Collection Villas meet this demand perfectly. Developed…
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Did Apple predict the current air pollution crisis?
Since the dawn of the new year, many provinces across Thailand have been grappling with a severe level of air pollution. As of January 24, Bangkok has been rated the fourth most polluted city in the world in terms of poor air quality by IQAir. The capital is often blanketed by a thick layer of smog, which has reminded some…
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Why more professionals and families are choosing Phuket for their holiday escapes (and why smart investors are buying in)
Phuket is a paradise for all. The sandy beaches allow kids to run free, enabling the parents to take in the sun and relax on pristine beaches whilst the temples and markets somehow make everyone who visits fall in love with the simplistic lifestyle. There’s more than enough luxury to make it all feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But in…
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Condo or resort? Inside PEYLAA, the upcoming Phuket project that promises to let you live the moment
Life in Phuket feels like a perpetual holiday. Time seems to slow down, nature becomes a part of your daily rhythm, and the ordinary becomes anything but mundane. Simple pleasures, like sipping coffee on your balcony or taking an evening stroll along the beach, become extraordinary. This is the life that PEYLAA Phuket Bang Tao promises to deliver with its…
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Thailand’s new luxury lies in wellbeing, culinary tourism, and brands
For Thailand to seize the potential of luxury tourism and hospitality in 2025, the country needs to go deeper with high-equity branded residences, regenerative wellness and culinary tourism set to determine the destiny of the country becoming Asia’s luxury tourism hub. The importance of brands in Thailand is turning Bangkok into a global playground city while the shift in values…
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Is it too late for Thailand’s dugongs?
Long ago, dugongs were hunted across Southeast Asia for their meat, tusks, and bones. In some regions, their body parts were thought to hold magical powers. Dugong tears, in particular, were said to bring good fortune or even love. But in Thailand, these gentle sea cows often inspired more reverence than harm. Along the Andaman coast, dugongs became symbols of love,…
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Why is Bangkok’s air quality so bad?
Imagine waking up early in Bangkok and you see all the beautiful morning fog from your balcony, but as you sip your coffee you realise it’s just Bangkok’s air pollution that’s making the sun rise aesthetic. Ranked as the 36th most air-polluted country in the world, Thailand has been facing challenges with air quality as of late. Many factors translate…
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Getting the best out of Koh Samui’s White Lotus frenzy
The island of Koh Samui shimmers like a jewel in the Gulf of Thailand. Its powdery white sand beaches, fringed with swaying coconut palms, have long been a cherished secret for those seeking laid-back luxury. But, as with all secrets, this one couldn’t stay hidden forever. Recently, the island’s gentle ocean breeze has carried more than just the scent of…
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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…
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Flying too high – The risk and responsibility of modern influencers
Long ago, on the Greek island of Crete, a brilliant inventor named Daedalus crafted wings of feathers and wax to escape captivity alongside his son, Icarus. The wings were a marvel of human ingenuity, a gift of freedom. Before they took flight, Daedalus gave Icarus a warning. “Fly too low, and the sea will drag you down. Fly too high,…
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Some like it hot: Phuket property market in 2024
As we stepped into 2025, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at the hottest property trends in Thailand’s largest leisure destination—Phuket. One of the most notable developments is the increasing presence of major Thai-listed property groups on the island, following an oversupply of properties in Bangkok. At the same time, banks are tightening credit to domestic real…
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Sea view vs mountain view: Which Etherhome Phuket condo unit suits you?
Phuket is a haven for anyone seeking tranquillity, luxury, and breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re buying a condo in Phuket, you know that you’re not only choosing walls and windows but also the view that will greet you every day. Would you prefer to wake up to lush green hills, the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea, or maybe a…
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The Phuket southern shift: More than just real estate
Over the past two years, Phuket’s real estate market has experienced a remarkable surge, with rising prices and growing demand. As tropical islands evolve over time, certain areas mature and develop, and much of the recent focus has been on the northwest, particularly the Bangtao area. For property buyers, location is often influenced by proximity to key amenities such as…
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Is tap water in Thailand safe to consume?
Wondering if you can drink the tap water in Thailand? From brushing your teeth to filling up a bottle, it’s helpful to understand a few basics. Tap water safety in Thailand varies by location, and while some people use it without issue, others avoid it completely. Here’s a guide on what’s safe, what’s not. How clean is Bangkok’s tap water…
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Top 5 reasons to stay in a seaview room at the best hotel in Hua Hin
Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference when planning a getaway to Hua Hin. With its laid-back charm, beautiful beaches, many things to do, and a mix of luxury and tradition, Hua Hin is a haven for those seeking a relaxing escape. And when it comes to finding the best hotel in Hua Hin near the beach, Aviyana…
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Top benefits of owning a freehold unit at Etherhome Seaview Condo in Phuket
For foreigners dreaming of owning a slice of paradise that is Phuket, buying a freehold condo is the ultimate way in. And there’s no better place to make that dream a reality than at Etherhome Seaview Condo. Located next to Rawai Beach in Phuket, Etherhome offers freehold ownership options for foreign investors and international buyers who want to call Phuket…
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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.…
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6 Wicked-themed desserts in Bangkok worth holding space for
Wicked fever has swept the media-consuming world. If you’ve been online at all recently, you’re sure to have seen the myriad reels, memes, and tiktoks that are all talking about this film. To get you in on the hype, we’re bringing to you a list of six Wicked-themed desserts to try in Bangkok — so, leave a little room after…
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Hideaway living redefined: Breathe, relax, and live the dream at Sunplay Pool Villas
As one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after countries to own real estate, Thailand certainly has no shortage of luxury pool villas where you can enjoy a resort-like lifestyle under the tropical sun. Recently, the new development Sunplay Pool Villas is turning heads for international buyers seeking a family home, a holiday retreat, and a sound investment property. Located in the…
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Holidays and observances in Thailand in 2025
As we get ready for the new year, it’s a great time to start planning ahead. The holidays and observances in Thailand for 2025 are a perfect opportunity to make sure you’re booking your time off or planning that trip you’ve been thinking about. Whether you’re staying in Thailand or heading elsewhere, it’s always handy to know which days are…
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Thailand destination guide: Cherng Talay, Phuket through the eyes of its residents
Cherng Talay, now a palm-fringed melting pot for locals, expats, and tourists, was once a well-kept secret, an escape from Patong’s neverending crowds. However, as more and more people settle here, it has quickly become one of the most sought-after areas in Phuket. The beaches remain relatively quiet compared to the busy shores of Patong or Kata, and it still…
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Celebrating Thailand’s Father’s Day
Thailand’s Father’s Day, celebrated on 5th December, is a heartfelt occasion that honours fatherhood and reflects the rich cultural traditions of the country. This day holds dual significance as it also commemorates the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, whose birthday is marked by the occasion. The day is a unique opportunity for families and communities to come together and for expats…
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National Family Health History Day: Know your risks, protect your family
November 28 is National Family Health History Day, a time dedicated to understanding how your family’s medical history shapes your own health and future. Established in 2004 by the U.S. Surgeon General, this day encourages families to gather, discuss, and record their health histories. For expats in Thailand, this day is also an excellent opportunity to take proactive steps for…
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Risky shopping at the Mae Klong Railway Market: Thailand’s most dangerous market
Thailand’s Mae Klong Railway Market offers an extraordinary blend of local culture, tradition, and excitement. Known as the umbrella-closing market or Talad Hoop Rom, this bustling marketplace operates right on active train tracks, where vendors skillfully adjust their stalls to make way for oncoming trains. Located in Samut Songkhram, about 90 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, the market attracts visitors worldwide…
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How Thai superstitions shape daily life today
Thai culture is full of fascinating traditions, and superstitions are a big part of it. If you’re walking past a spirit house or hearing someone talk about an unlucky number, you’ll notice these beliefs are everywhere. Superstitions may seem mystical, but they still influence daily life in Thailand. Understanding these beliefs can help you connect with Thai culture. Let’s explore…
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Understanding Thai spirit houses and the offerings given to them
When you are in Thailand, it doesn’t matter where you are, from the city centre of Bangkok to the mountainous region of Chaing Mai. You just can’t help but notice these small shrines in front of buildings or under trees. Oftentimes, you might ask yourself what is the purpose of these shrines? In this article, we will go through everything…
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Why expats trust Dan About Thailand for honest advice
If you’ve ever considered living and working in Thailand, you’ve probably scoured the internet for insights. More often than not, you end up finding the same tired ‘Top 10’ lists and generic ‘how-to’ guides. While these can be useful, they often lack depth, coming from influencers and publishers who repeat the same recycled information. What sets Dan About Thailand apart…
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The 5 underrated apps you need to use in Thailand
Much like the rest of the world, Thais love using apps to navigate their way through life. Of course, there are hundreds of apps to use daily, but we’ve compiled a list of the most underrated apps in the country that won’t only make your life in the Land of Smiles easier but can also get you some fantastic discounts.…
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