costs

  • Health5 hidden healthcare costs in Thailand and how to avoid them

    5 hidden healthcare costs in Thailand and how to avoid them

    Thailand’s healthcare system is affordable and supported by the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme, offering essential services to most citizens. However, hidden healthcare costs can surprise patients and lead to unexpected expenses. These include specialist fees, insurance gaps, emergency services, and overpriced medications. This article highlights five hidden healthcare costs in Thailand and shares simple ways to avoid them for…

  • HealthHow much is Thai health insurance?

    How much is Thai health insurance?

    Health insurance in Thailand is essential for expats and locals, providing financial protection and access to quality care. Costs depend on age, health, and coverage level, with basic plans being cheaper but limited and comprehensive plans offering more benefits at a higher price. Regardless, getting Thai health insurance has its costs and it’s good to be aware of how much…

  • Business NewsNoodle no more: Ramen shops fold under rising costs (video)

    Noodle no more: Ramen shops fold under rising costs (video)

    In an unprecedented wave of financial distress, a record number of ramen noodle eateries in Japan went belly up in 2024, unable to stomach the soaring ingredient and utility costs without raising their own prices. Research firm Teikoku Databank Ltd has revealed that insolvencies with liabilities of at least 10 million yen (approximately 2.2 million baht) surged by more than…

  • Thai LifeHow much do you need to live comfortably in Thailand?

    How much do you need to live comfortably in Thailand?

    Hosting 28.15 million tourists in 2024, Thailand is built to attract international attention. But with so many types of people in this city, do you ever wonder about how much they have to spend to live here? In this article, we will provide some insights into the cost of living in Thailand and, most importantly, how much you need to…

  • AutomotiveMost trending EV cars in Thailand

    Most trending EV cars in Thailand

    Thailand is rapidly becoming a significant player in the electric vehicle (EV) market, driven by government incentives, a growing charging infrastructure, and increasing consumer awareness of the environmental benefits of electric cars. As the country aims to transition towards sustainable transportation, several EV models have gained popularity among Thai consumers. This article explores the most trending EV cars in Thailand,…

  • AutomotiveCost of owning an EV car in Thailand

    Cost of owning an EV car in Thailand

    Are you thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV) in Thailand? You’re not alone. With rising fuel prices and increasing environmental concerns, many are considering EVs as a smart and sustainable choice. But what does it really cost to own one? Owning an EV in Thailand involves more than just the initial purchase price. You’ll need to…

  • Retire in ThailandThings you should avoid doing after retirement in Thailand

    Things you should avoid doing after retirement in Thailand

    Dreaming about sipping fresh coconut water on the beautiful beaches of Thailand when you retire? You are not alone. Thailand is super popular among retirees because of its stunning landscapes, yearlong tropical weather, and affordable lifestyle. But we all know that retirement is not just about hammocks and sunrise swims, right? There can be a few bumps on the road…

  • Business NewsPost-pandemic airfares to remain high amid travel surge

    Post-pandemic airfares to remain high amid travel surge

    Despite a slight relief due to declining jet fuel prices and increased flight capacity, airfares are expected to remain high in the post-pandemic travel surge and are unlikely to revert to pre-pandemic levels soon. AirAsia Aviation’s CEO Bo Lingam spoke on the changes in travelling patterns post-pandemic in an interview. “[The aircraft] load factor is around 90%, this was unheard…

  • Thailand NewsFishy finale: Prachin Buri seafood restaurant closes due to rising costs

    Fishy finale: Prachin Buri seafood restaurant closes due to rising costs

    The renowned seafood restaurant Soot Tiew Na Prachin Buri announced its closure due to rising costs, increased transportation expenses, and declining revenue. The restaurant’s last day of operation is this Sunday, June 16, and the owner is open to transferring the business to interested parties. The owner, Pak Kad, shared the news on Facebook today. “Hello, this is Pak Kad,…

  • Bangkok NewsPower move: Energy Ministry to introduce National Energy Plan

    Power move: Energy Ministry to introduce National Energy Plan

    The Energy Ministry announced yesterday that it is gearing up to unveil the National Energy Plan 2024 in September. This comprehensive strategy promises to revolutionise Thailand’s energy landscape with the introduction of nuclear plants and a pledge to cap electricity costs at under 4 baht per unit. The Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO) revealed that this master plan will…

  • Thailand NewsBritish family leaves UK for Thailand for cheaper living costs

    British family leaves UK for Thailand for cheaper living costs

    A young British family has swapped the grey skies of Cheshire for the sunny shores of Thailand, seeking refuge from the UK’s crippling cost of living crisis. Jess, her partner Harry (surnames withheld), and their two year old daughter Cece uprooted their lives in Congleton to start afresh in Southeast Asia. Their decision was driven by surging energy bills that…

  • Thailand NewsSky-high costs: Why flying in Vietnam is becoming a luxury

    Sky-high costs: Why flying in Vietnam is becoming a luxury

    Flying to Vietnam has become increasingly costly for tourists, with airfares reaching unprecedented heights. But what’s driving these price hikes, and why are neighbouring countries like Thailand offering cheaper alternatives? Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Danh Huy highlighted the factors propelling Vietnam’s flight costs to stratospheric levels during a recent session of the National Assembly. According to Huy, Vietnam Airlines has…

  • CannabisThe importance of having a cannabis zipper

    The importance of having a cannabis zipper

    Considering the investment in cannabis with prices for an ounce, or a zip, in legal markets, ensuring your stash remains top-notch is critical. A cannabis zipper comes to the rescue here, expertly sealing in that freshness and shielding your precious greens from any pesky external factors. It means that every single pound spent mirrors directly in the awesomeness of your…

  • Thailand NewsBack-to-school: Rise in education costs leaves parents reeling

    Back-to-school: Rise in education costs leaves parents reeling

    As the cost of schooling skyrockets, parents brace themselves for a financial storm, with tuition fees soaring to unprecedented levels. The latest revelation from the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) uncovered the staggering truth behind education expenses in 2024. According to Thanawan Polwichai, advisory chairman of the UTCC’s Centre for Economic and Business Forecast, the latest survey…

  • Thailand NewsCustom Mercedes Maybach in 11.2 million baht crash goes viral

    Custom Mercedes Maybach in 11.2 million baht crash goes viral

    A recent collision involving a customised two-tone Mercedes-Benz S580e Maybach and a pickup truck caused a stir online, with netizens reacting in shock to the estimated 11.2 million baht worth of damages to the luxury car. The incident was highlighted on TikTok by user Banknitikorn, who shared images of the aftermath. Amidst an outpouring of comments, concerns were raised regarding…

  • AutomotiveEV charging stations in Thailand

    EV charging stations in Thailand

    EV charging stations in Thailand are quickly growing as the country adopts electric vehicles to fight air pollution and lower fossil fuel use. The Thai government supports electric mobility, and the increasing demand for EVs is boosting the expansion of charging stations. This shift offers opportunities for local and international investors and helps consumers choose eco-friendly transportation. In this guide,…

  • Business NewsBoxed milk prices set to rise due to increased raw milk costs

    Boxed milk prices set to rise due to increased raw milk costs

    The Internal Trade Department under the Commerce Ministry is poised to consider and approve a potential rise in boxed milk prices, following a request in alignment with increased raw milk production costs. The move comes on the heels of the Milk Board’s recent approval to hike the median ex-factory rates for raw cow’s milk by 2.25 baht (US$0.064) to reach…

  • Thailand NewsThai train station offers refund after Facebook complaint over unexpected 100 baht fee

    Thai train station offers refund after Facebook complaint over unexpected 100 baht fee

    A popular Facebook page shared a complaint about train station staff closing ticket booths and directing passengers to purchase tickets on-board, leading to an additional 100 baht fee. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has since clarified the situation and offered a refund. A local train passenger yesterday took to the famous Facebook page อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 to express…

  • Business NewsThai government’s policy paradox: Digital wallet scheme and minimum wage hike under fire

    Thai government’s policy paradox: Digital wallet scheme and minimum wage hike under fire

    The Thai government of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has faced significant challenges since coming to power seven weeks ago, with various commitments made during their campaign now under scrutiny. A crucial task includes the repatriation of Thai citizens affected by the Middle East conflict and the ongoing Israel-Hamas unrest. The Thai government’s promise to hike the daily minimum wage to…

  • Business NewsThai AirAsia CEO urges government to curb rising travel costs

    Thai AirAsia CEO urges government to curb rising travel costs

    Thai AirAsia‘s chief executive Santisuk Klongchaiya advocates for government intervention to mitigate escalating travel expenses for tourists, alongside the visa-free scheme for Chinese visitors. He justifies this by citing the disproportionate resumption of travel demand compared to the supply side, particularly in the airline industry, in the past year. Thai AirAsia’s capacity to serve China routes has notably reduced. Previously,…

  • PropertyHow to start hosting on Airbnb

    How to start hosting on Airbnb

    If you are a traveller, chances are you have checked out Airbnb. And, if you haven’t, it is a great site to find a house or apartment to stay in longer term than a hotel in Thailand or elsewhere. The experience is often favoured as you can feel more at home during your chosen place to stay. Today, Airbnb is…

  • Thailand NewsOPINION: Why restaurants are so f**ked

    OPINION: Why restaurants are so f**ked

    Article by Guest Blogger Joelle Parenteau (This article contains some strong language that may offend some people) Covid 19 is about to kill restaurants by the thousands. This pandemic is the ultimate pressure test and restaurants are failing hard. Think about it: when we come out of this, your favourite food spots might not be there any more. Why are…

  • Thailand NewsThailand News Today | Thai Airways corruption, Southern floods, Border Covid outbreak | Dec 3

    Thailand News Today | Thai Airways corruption, Southern floods, Border Covid outbreak | Dec 3

    Thursday’s edition of Thailand News Today, including the latest in the local cases popping up in Northern Thailand. Thailand’s most watched English language news. 20 more people suspected of being involved in corruption at Thai Airways 20 people are now under suspicion of corruption and mismanagement within Thai Airways as accountants unravel the massive losses for the airline, spanning a…

  • Tourism NewsThai Air Asia returns to Suvarnabhumi in addition to its Don Mueang hub

    Thai Air Asia returns to Suvarnabhumi in addition to its Don Mueang hub

    Thai AirAsia is spreading its Bangkok wings and opening up a secondary hub at the main Suvarnabhumi airport (BKK), to help broaden its attraction and bolster its bottomline. Thai Air Asia was the first airline to head back to the moth-balled Don Mueang in 2012 to re-establish the older airport after all the airlines moved across to the new Suvarnabhumi…

  • Economy NewsAirlines offered drop in landing fees and fuel excise at Thai airports

    Airlines offered drop in landing fees and fuel excise at Thai airports

    Airlines, international and domestic, have been hit hard with the impact on travel following the Coronavirus outbreak. Over the past month there’s been daily announcements of cancellations of flights and rescheduling to cope with border closures and daily changes in the coronavirus evolution. The Thai Cabinet yesterday approved a relief package which had been proposed by the Transport Ministry for…

  • World NewsHanoi the cheapest overall, Bangkok the cheapest food – Backpacking in Asia

    Hanoi the cheapest overall, Bangkok the cheapest food – Backpacking in Asia

    Overall, Hanoi in Vietnam is the cheapest backpacker destination in Asia, whereas Bangkok offers the cheapest meals whilst on your journey. Alpha Travel Insurance has revealed the Asian cities offering the most affordable experience for backpacking based on the costs per day, of a hostel, transportation, meals, drinks and attractions. You can view the full graph HERE. The article looks…

  • World NewsSo you want to move to Vietnam?

    So you want to move to Vietnam?

    “Whilst Thailand is often nicknamed the ‘land of a thousand 7-elevens’, with a convenience store on just about every corner, there are very few of these in Vietnam, for now.” With the Thai Baht on a high at the moment, along with stricter enforcement of visa rules, some expats say they’ve had enough and are heading to Vietnam, or some…

  • Tourism NewsThailand’s beaches now more expensive than European resorts – report

    Thailand’s beaches now more expensive than European resorts – report

    PHOTO: Ministry of Villas The cost of a holiday in popular Thai beach resorts is now on par with, or even higher than those in Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Egypt – all closer to home for Europeans with lower flight costs and less travel time. Diethelm Travel Group report that the cost of a five-star resort in Koh Samui,…

  • Transport NewsThai transport minister backs down over mandatory GPS in private cars and motorbikes

    Thai transport minister backs down over mandatory GPS in private cars and motorbikes

    Thailand’s Ministry of Transport is backing down over plans for all private cars and motorcycles to be equipped with GPS devices. He now says that the issue needs “further study on real-time connectivity” with the database of the Land Transport Department and will measure the cost of that connectivity. Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob says, initially, the installation of GPS systems…

  • World NewsGoogle moves manufacture of Pixel phone from China to Vietnam

    Google moves manufacture of Pixel phone from China to Vietnam

    Google is shifting the manufacturer of their Pixel smartphone from China to Vietnam. The move is said to happen before the end of this year, as reported by Nikkei. Google cited increasing Chinese labour costs and added pressure from tariffs in the ongoing China-US trade spat. The US-based internet giant is reported to be moving both the manufacturer of its…