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.

  • Sponsored

    Moving to Thailand? Here are the health documents you should prepare before you go

    The Thaiger key takeaways Valid passport, visa documents, health certificate, and vaccination records are essential for immigration and medical care in Thailand. Health insurance that meets visa requirements, like Cigna, provides protection, direct billing, and access to a wide hospital...

  • Bangkok after dark: Where to find gin cocktails with jazz and the old town charm | Thaiger

    Bangkok after dark: Where to find gin cocktails with jazz and the old town charm

    The Thaiger key takeaways Bangkok transforms at night, where hidden bars, shophouses, and neon-lit streets turn into hubs for creative gin cocktails and local-inspired mixology. The city’s cocktail scene blends tradition and innovation, with bartenders using Thai botanicals, herbs, and spices to craft drinks that reflect Bangkok’s culture. Iconic bars, from historic jazz lounges to modern speakeasies, show how Bangkok’s…

  • Thai health ministry warns of RSV and influenza surge, 61 deaths | Thaiger

    Thai health ministry warns of RSV and influenza surge, 61 deaths

    Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has issued a public health warning following a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses, with over 555,000 influenza cases and more than 16,000 RSV infections reported so far this year. The outbreaks have claimed 61 lives, including two young children. According to data from the Disease Control Department (DDC), released on September 22, officials have been…

  • The closest beach to Bangkok? Amari Bangsaen might just be the getaway you’re after | Thaiger

    The closest beach to Bangkok? Amari Bangsaen might just be the getaway you’re after

    The name Bangsaen might not be the first that pops to your mind when planning a beach escape from Bangkok, but that’s about to change. Just an hour from the capital, this relaxed coastal town is stepping into the spotlight thanks to its growing café scene, clean coastline, and focus on sustainability. And now, with the arrival of Amari Bangsaen,…

  • Spray cans & soul cycles: Inside Bangkok’s street art scene now | Thaiger

    Spray cans & soul cycles: Inside Bangkok’s street art scene now

    The Thaiger key takeaways Bangkok’s street art has exploded beyond galleries, covering canals, walls, train pillars, and even helmets, blending local culture with global influences. Artists like TU!! and Chip7 bring personal style and philosophy to the streets, balancing playfulness, legacy, and creative freedom. Key spots for exploring street art include Khlong Saen Saeb, Graffiti Park near MBK, and hidden…

  • Thailand health insurance that covers chronic conditions: What expats need to know | Thaiger

    Thailand health insurance that covers chronic conditions: What expats need to know

    The Thaiger key takeaways Managing chronic conditions in Thailand requires health insurance that covers specialist visits, medications, tests, and hospital stays. Cigna offers high-coverage plans with access to top hospitals, direct billing, and telemedicine support for convenient long-term care. Expats should disclose pre-existing conditions, understand waiting periods, and ensure their policy meets visa requirements Living in Thailand as an expat…

  • Phuket’s fuel consumption soars over 1 million litres daily | Thaiger

    Phuket’s fuel consumption soars over 1 million litres daily

    Phuket’s residents are consuming over a million litres of fuel daily, with expectations for this figure to rise, according to Rattakorn Klinchan, Chief of the Ministry of Energy Phuket Office. Last year, fuel expenditure in Phuket reached 13.7 billion baht, averaging 37.534 million baht daily. This accounts for 37.5% of the nation’s total fuel purchases. Rattakorn emphasised the need for…

  • Thailand finance chief vows to steady baht, probe gold trade | Thaiger

    Thailand finance chief vows to steady baht, probe gold trade

    Thailand’s incoming finance minister pledged to work with the central bank to stabilise the baht and investigate irregular capital flows and gold trading. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, who is set to take office as finance minister, made the pledge after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with Thai Chamber of Commerce chairperson Poj Aramwattananont yesterday, September 18. Ekniti said he had already begun…

  • How storytelling can elevate brands in hospitality | Thaiger

    How storytelling can elevate brands in hospitality

    It’s easy to think of luxury hospitality as a world built solely on marble lobbies, rooftop bars, and plush mattresses. But in speaking with Xavier Royaux, Global Chief Marketing Officer for Sofitel, MGallery, and the newly launched Emblems brand, it became clear that the true competitive edge isn’t just the elegance of the hotels; it’s about emotion. More specifically, storytelling…

  • 10 strange laws to be aware of in Thailand | Thaiger

    10 strange laws to be aware of in Thailand

    Thailand is a country full of rich traditions, vibrant culture, and the occasional quirky regulation that can leave anyone doing a double-take. Even if you have lived a long time in Thailand, you might get told that you should do or can not do something that you have not heard before. Regardless, it’s helpful to know the lesser-known rules that…

  • What to do in Bangkok this weekend (September 19 to 21) | Thaiger

    What to do in Bangkok this weekend (September 19 to 21)

    How is it already mid-September? Time is flying by, but Bangkok isn’t slowing down one bit. Between riverside Pilates, a pop-up dedicated to Afro culture, and a world-class magic show, your calendar is about to fill up fast. Here’s our curated list of the best things to do in Bangkok this weekend (September 19 to 21). Things to do in…

  • Bangkok district declared rabies zone after dog carcass found | Thaiger

    Bangkok district declared rabies zone after dog carcass found

    Officials have declared parts of Bangkok’s Nong Chok district rabies-infectious zones after a dog tested positive, triggering strict controls on animal movement. The Area 10 office of the Department of Livestock Development (DLD) announced yesterday, September 17, that the zones have been designated rabies infectious areas until October 16. Under the order, no live animals, particularly dogs, or their carcasses…

  • 9 most common health issues covered by insurance for expats in Thailand | Thaiger

    9 most common health issues covered by insurance for expats in Thailand

    Thailand is a popular destination for expats due to its affordable lifestyle and excellent healthcare system. However, settling in a new country often brings health concerns. To ensure you’re covered for the most common medical needs, understanding what expat health insurance typically includes is key. On this page What’s covered (Jump to section) Description 1. Routine medical care Covers regular…

  • Huai Tong Bridge: A beautiful viewpoint in Phetchabun with a haunting past | Thaiger

    Huai Tong Bridge: A beautiful viewpoint in Phetchabun with a haunting past

    The Thaiger key takeaways Huai Tong Bridge is Thailand’s tallest concrete bridge and offers stunning highland views for road trippers. The bridge carries a history of accidents, tragedies, and ghost stories that linger alongside its beauty. Located between Lom Sak and Nakhon Thai, it’s a must-see northern landmark, especially in the cool season. What is the highest bridge in Thailand?…

  • DKSH, PacBio, Chulalongkorn University partner to launch ‘LIFE-SEQ’ | Thaiger

    DKSH, PacBio, Chulalongkorn University partner to launch ‘LIFE-SEQ’

    DKSH Business Unit Technology, a leading market expansion services provider, and PacBio, a global leader in high-accuracy genome sequencing, have partnered with the Centre of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, to launch LIFE-SEQ (Live-long Initiative for Future Excellence through long-read SEQuencing). The groundbreaking initiative leverages HiFi genome sequencing technology to advance precision health, offering lifelong care…

  • Thai vendor nearly dies after shingles treated with folk remedy | Thaiger

    Thai vendor nearly dies after shingles treated with folk remedy

    A vegetable vendor in Prachuap Khiri Khan was hospitalised after using a folk remedy for shingles, which led to severe blisters and a dangerous blood infection. A 39 year old vegetable vendor in Mueang district, Prachuap Khiri Khan, has shared her near-death ordeal after a traditional treatment for shingles spiralled into a life-threatening infection. The woman, identified only as A,…

  • What are the most affordable places to visit in Thailand? | Thaiger

    What are the most affordable places to visit in Thailand?

    The Thaiger key takeaways Thailand is still relatively affordable in 2025, offering cheap stays, street food, and low-cost attractions across all regions. Key budget-friendly destinations include Pai, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Koh Tao, and Kanchanaburi. Travel protection matters. SafetyWing insurance ensures medical, evacuation, and trip coverage for stress-free adventures. Thailand is one of the most affordable and beautiful places to visit…

  • SCB cuts branches and staff as AI reshapes Thai banking | Thaiger

    SCB cuts branches and staff as AI reshapes Thai banking

    Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) is restructuring its retail operations in response to rising household debt and the growing dominance of artificial intelligence (AI) in the financial sector. Since May, SCB has reorganised its retail segment into a new consumer banking division, covering branches, retail services, and employees. Chief Executive Kris Chantanotoke said the shift reflects customer preferences and the steady…

  • Thailand’s top expat havens: Cost of living in 5 Provinces [2025] | Thaiger

    Thailand’s top expat havens: Cost of living in 5 Provinces [2025]

    So, you’re dreaming of the Land of Smiles. Not just for a two-week holiday, but for the long haul. Maybe you’re a remote worker tired of the cubicle, a retiree ready to trade snow for sunshine, or perhaps you’re just seeking a life less ordinary. Whatever your story, Thailand calls. But where to drop your bags? We’ll take a closer…

  • British expat reveals retirement costs in Thailand, sparking relocation dreams | Thaiger

    British expat reveals retirement costs in Thailand, sparking relocation dreams

    A British expat broke down the cost of living for his retirement in Thailand on TikTok, prompting many of his followers to consider relocating to the country. The man, Simon Thatcher, shared the video on his account, @skyhighthaisi, detailing his monthly expenses to show whether living in Thailand is still affordable in 2025. Thatcher explained that he lives under a…

  • Leela x JHOL: The Indian exchange journey | Thaiger

    Leela x JHOL: The Indian exchange journey

    This October, culinary worlds unite in a rare two-night collaboration, The Indian Exchange Journey, as Leela by Chef Manav Tuli, a Tatler Best Hong Kong Top 20 Restaurants recipient and MICHELIN-recommended dining destination, partners with JHOL Restaurant Bangkok for an exclusive cross-cultural restaurant takeover. On October 4 to 5 at JHOL Bangkok, Chef Tuli will present his acclaimed Royal Indian…

  • Can health insurance help speed up your Thai visa process? | Thaiger

    Can health insurance help speed up your Thai visa process?

    The Thaiger key takeaways Having the right health insurance keeps your visa process moving without unnecessary hold-ups. Showing proof of coverage early can make approvals and renewals faster. Keeping your insurance active avoids surprises and ensures smooth compliance. Applying for a long-term visa in Thailand can be tricky, with many requirements to meet. One important factor that many applicants overlook…

  • What makes this boutique condo a gem for luxury seekers | Thaiger

    What makes this boutique condo a gem for luxury seekers

    Phuket’s Bangtao-Pasak neighbourhood is already a magnet for people who like their lifestyle polished. Between the golf courses, upscale dining spots, international schools, and quick beach access, it has become the island’s unofficial capital for luxury living. Now it’s about to become even more alluring with the arrival of 8 Atelier Residence, a boutique condominium with just 48 units and…

  • Dusit Central Park: Bangkok’s rooftop garden in the heart of Silom | Thaiger

    Dusit Central Park: Bangkok’s rooftop garden in the heart of Silom

    The Thaiger key takeaways Bangkok’s latest landmark combines a luxury hotel, residences, offices, high-end retail, and a 7-rai urban Roof Park directly connected to Sala Daeng BTS and Silom MRT. Dusit Arun at Dusit Central Park offers daily access for sunrise jogs, golden-hour city views, and relaxing amphitheatre hangouts. The development features LEED Gold, WELL Platinum, and WiredScore Gold certifications,…

  • Corporate gifting done right with Potico.co.th | Thaiger

    Corporate gifting done right with Potico.co.th

    When it comes to business, a well-timed gift can say what words alone cannot. Whether it’s winning over a new client, thanking a loyal partner, or celebrating your team, Potico.co.th helps Thai companies create lasting impressions through smart and elegant corporate gifting solutions without the hassle. As Thailand’s leading platform for corporate gifting, Potico.co.th offers full branding flexibility, fast nationwide…

  • ICONSIAM welcomes Heyone for ‘Heyday Playland’ featuring largest art toy pop-up in Thailand | Thaiger

    ICONSIAM welcomes Heyone for ‘Heyday Playland’ featuring largest art toy pop-up in Thailand

    ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, continues to affirm its position as a global experiential destination and a hub for artistic collaboration and international cultural exchange. In partnership with Heyone, the renowned art toy brand from China behind beloved characters such as Ozai, Mimi, Faya, and Furfur, together with MORE THAN ARTS & TOYS,…

  • FP Markets’ 4 trading platforms: Choose right for trading success | Thaiger

    FP Markets’ 4 trading platforms: Choose right for trading success

    A deep dive into four platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and the TradingView connection. Discover their unique features, who they are best for, and select the ultimate tool to fuel your growth. Choosing a trading platform is much like selecting the right vehicle. While the goal, generating profit, is the same, the fastest race car isn’t always suitable for…

  • Lunique Real Estate celebrates Skypark Lucean Jomtien Pattaya’s phase one sales hitting 42% | Thaiger

    Lunique Real Estate celebrates Skypark Lucean Jomtien Pattaya’s phase one sales hitting 42%

    Lunique Real Estate Co., Ltd., a leading luxury property developer focused on next-generation lifestyles, celebrates the remarkable success of Skypark Lucean Jomtien Pattaya, a 7.5-billion-baht luxury sea-view condominium project. Phase One sales have surged past 42%, with only 13% of the foreign ownership quota remaining, demonstrating strong investor confidence in Pattaya’s first luxury branded residence under the Banyan Group. The…

  • What are the symptoms of panic disorder? | Thaiger

    What are the symptoms of panic disorder?

    Experiencing an episode of intense fear can be a truly unsettling experience. A sudden overwhelming terror that seems to come out of nowhere, accompanied by a host of physical reactions, can leave you feeling powerless and shaken. This is what a panic attack feels like, and for some people, these attacks are a recurring and debilitating part of their lives.…

  • Boutique living in Bang Tao: Why low-density homes matter more than ever | Thaiger

    Boutique living in Bang Tao: Why low-density homes matter more than ever

    Phuket has always had a way of reinventing itself. From being a backpacker’s stop in the 90s to a luxury escape in the 2000s, the island keeps adapting to people who come looking for their own version of tropical paradise. But anyone who has spent more than a few days here knows that rapid development has left its mark. Condominiums…

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

    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 insurance gives retirees peace of mind by covering age-related health issues, providing access to quality care, protecting them from expensive…