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 long-term expats in Thailand say insurance is worth every baht

    Thailand’s warm weather, low cost of living, and good healthcare attract many long-term expats, including retirees and remote workers. Life here feels easy and affordable, but medical costs can be high if something goes wrong. Private hospitals are popular because...

  • Finance minister reveals final contenders to lead Bank of Thailand | Thaiger

    Finance minister reveals final contenders to lead Bank of Thailand

    Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira confirmed yesterday that he has officially signed off on his nominee to lead the Bank of Thailand (BoT) and submitted the selection to the Cabinet for consideration today. Speaking to reporters, Pichai made it clear he had no reservations about collaborating with whichever candidate ultimately gets the nod. “Whoever is selected, I’ll…

  • Transgender Thais win free hormone therapy in gold card revolution | Thaiger

    Transgender Thais win free hormone therapy in gold card revolution

    Thailand’s Board of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) has approved a sweeping plan to make hormone therapy for gender affirmation an official health benefit under the country’s Universal Health Coverage, known as the Gold Card system. The move, green-lit with a budget exceeding 145 million baht for fiscal year 2025, aims to promote equality and improve the well-being of…

  • What do you need before moving from Australia to Thailand? | Thaiger

    What do you need before moving from Australia to Thailand?

    Moving from Australia to Thailand is a big step that brings exciting new experiences, a rich culture, and often a more affordable way of living. To settle in with less stress, you need to plan ahead. This means sorting out your visa, arranging good health insurance, managing your money, and learning about local rules and customs. With careful preparation, you…

  • Thailand launches first local cancer therapy pill | Thaiger

    Thailand launches first local cancer therapy pill

    Thailand has introduced its first domestically created targeted therapy pill for cancer treatment, named Imcranib 100. This development is attributed to the scientific vision and leadership of Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana. Targeted therapy represents a modern approach to cancer treatment, concentrating on attacking specific cancer cells while preserving healthy cells. This method helps to minimise the…

  • What’s Up Thailand Episode 3: From book fairs and lantern festivals to rooftop comedy and zine culture | Thaiger

    What’s Up Thailand Episode 3: From book fairs and lantern festivals to rooftop comedy and zine culture

    Welcome back to your essential guide for Bangkok’s boldest, brightest, and quirkiest happenings. From riverside book talks to rooftop comedy and caffeine-fueled parties, What’s Up Thailand is your shortcut to the best things to do in the Big Mango this week. Whether you’re living locally or just passing through, here’s your curated lineup of events that cut through the noise,…

  • Tea rooms: Steeped in history, served to people who talk too much | Thaiger

    Tea rooms: Steeped in history, served to people who talk too much

    When most people think of a tea room, they picture some serene place in London or Paris. You know the type: lace curtains, porcelain cups, people trying to pretend they’re not judging the placement of your spoon while you stir or you have the people who think of themselves as a worldly person. They think of an asian taoist room.…

  • Melioidosis kills 72: Thai health ministry issues urgent warning | Thaiger

    Melioidosis kills 72: Thai health ministry issues urgent warning

    The Ministry of Public Health has issued a warning about the melioidosis disease, which has resulted in 72 deaths and 1,676 infections. The disease can be contracted through contact with contaminated soil or water, or even by inhaling contaminated dust. It is advised to avoid wading through water or mud and to consume only cooked food. If symptoms develop, medical…

  • What to do in Bangkok this weekend (July 11 to 13) | Thaiger

    What to do in Bangkok this weekend (July 11 to 13)

    The forecast is calling for heat, rain, and a full weekend of things to do in Bangkok that go well beyond shopping malls and air-con. From a riverside Mexican fiesta and open-air art at Ong Ang Canal to the final days of a major exhibition, the city is busy in the best way. Here’s what to circle on your calendar,…

  • Why Thailand is obsessed with Labubus | Thaiger

    Why Thailand is obsessed with Labubus

    If you’ve been wondering why everyone in Bangkok is dangling strange little dolls from their designer bags, meet Labubu and Cry Baby, Thailand’s latest pop culture obsessions. Labubu, a mischievous elf with pointy ears, serrated teeth, and wild hair, was created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in 2015. Inspired by Nordic mythology, Labubu first appeared in The Monsters’ story…

  • Upcoming music festivals in Thailand you won’t want to miss (July to December 2025) | Thaiger

    Upcoming music festivals in Thailand you won’t want to miss (July to December 2025)

    The best festivals in Thailand have a bit of everything, from big-name bands and DJs to full-on weekends with art, wellness, and even barefoot island raves. And this year, the lineup looks better than ever, with old favourites returning and new names to get excited about. Sure, we love catching dedicated artist performances (and there are so many great concerts…

  • Activist calls for sex ban to those under-22 to curb HIV crisis in Thailand | Thaiger

    Activist calls for sex ban to those under-22 to curb HIV crisis in Thailand

    A political activist urged the government to introduce legislation banning people under the age of 22 from having sex, in an effort to reduce the number of HIV cases in Thailand. During a parliamentary session, Deputy Minister of Public Health Chaichana Daecho admitted that HIV infection rates among young people had increased. He emphasised that the ministry was aware of…

  • Digital nomading in Chiang Mai? What US$1,000 a month really gets you | Thaiger

    Digital nomading in Chiang Mai? What US$1,000 a month really gets you

    Chiang Mai has become a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low living costs, rich culture, and active remote work community. The city offers affordable housing, tasty food, reliable internet, and many co-working spaces, making it a great place for a comfortable yet budget-friendly lifestyle. For around US$1,000 a month, digital nomads can rent a furnished apartment, use…

  • Rabies deaths in Thailand triple with dogs as primary source | Thaiger

    Rabies deaths in Thailand triple with dogs as primary source

    The Department of Disease Control (DDC) reported a threefold increase in rabies-related deaths in Thailand this year. Of these cases, 90% were contracted from dogs and 10% from cats. Yesterday, July 7, Dr Phanumart Yanawetaskul, Director General of the Department of Disease Control, announced that seven fatalities have occurred in Chon Buri, Sisaket, Chachoengsao, Nakhon Ratchasima, Tak, and Rayong. This…

  • Thai royal award celebrates Vietnam’s top teachers | Thaiger

    Thai royal award celebrates Vietnam’s top teachers

    Vietnam’s star educators are basking in the royal spotlight after a Thai delegation arrived to celebrate their achievements and ramp up educational ties across Asia. From July 6 to 8, a high-profile delegation from the Princess Maha Chakri Award Foundation (PMCAF), led by Chairman Dr Krissanapong Kirtikara, visited Vietnam to meet past award winners, promote regional cooperation and prepare for…

  • FDA plans new standards for bottled water | Thaiger

    FDA plans new standards for bottled water

    The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plans to propose a draft announcement to the health minister to raise the quality standards of bottled water and ice to international levels. Doctor Surachoke Tangwiwat, Secretary General of the FDA, said the proposal aims to benefit manufacturers, consumers, and the environment. A recent meeting was held to present the draft regulations, which…

  • The perfect private getaway at Shan Villas Bangkok | Thaiger

    The perfect private getaway at Shan Villas Bangkok

    Shan Villas Bangkok is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway with a blend of comfort and privacy. It’s just a short distance from the best attractions and has a great location. Ideal for families, groups, or business trips, each villa is designed to offer both space and relaxation. With great facilities like a rooftop restaurant and outdoor pool, Shan…

  • Welcome to summer school break: Family holidays and fun at Jungceylon Phuket | Thaiger

    Welcome to summer school break: Family holidays and fun at Jungceylon Phuket

    Summer school break has officially arrived, and that means it’s time to swap early morning alarms and lunchboxes for lazy mornings, beach trips, and quality time with the kids. If you’re in Phuket or planning a trip with the kids, Jungceylon in Patong is a great choice for a full day of entertainment, food, and shopping. You don’t need to…

  • Bangkok in gold: Where to catch the sunset | Thaiger

    Bangkok in gold: Where to catch the sunset

    Bangkok buzzes, blares, steams, and sings. The traffic never quite sleeps, the air hums with heat, and the Chao Phraya moves like a long, slow pulse through the heart of it all. Sunset doesn’t arrive quietly either. It spills. It drapes the rooftops, washes the river in amber, flares behind temple spires. It softens the edges of the day, surrendering…

  • Welcome to American expats in Thailand: A guide to understanding the Fourth of July abroad | Thaiger

    Welcome to American expats in Thailand: A guide to understanding the Fourth of July abroad

    Hello, non-American friends in Thailand. Congratulations! You’ve found yourself surrounded by American expats during the Fourth of July, America’s birthday. Or as locals affectionately call it, “Somehow they got louder.” In your hands is a helpful guide designed to walk you through this loud, confusing celebration of democracy, freedom, and processed meats. Pay attention, please, you’ll need this. 1. Fireworks:…

  • Red Bull tycoon tops Thailand rich list with US$44.5 billion fortune | Thaiger

    Red Bull tycoon tops Thailand rich list with US$44.5 billion fortune

    Red Bull really does give you wings—especially if your name is Chalerm Yoovidhya. The co-owner of the world-famous energy drink has officially been crowned Thailand’s richest man this year, boasting a staggering net worth of US$44.5 billion (1.4 trillion baht), according to Forbes magazine. Chalerm’s jaw-dropping fortune saw an eye-watering leap of US$8.5 billion, marking a 24% surge from the previous year.…

  • From vision to delivery: How expert project and construction management turns developer ideas into reality | Thaiger

    From vision to delivery: How expert project and construction management turns developer ideas into reality

    The world is full of unfinished projects. Piling and foundations laid and forgotten, condominiums frozen mid-rise, spaces that never became what they were meant to be. Anyone can dream up a skyline, but what are the real challenges? Making sure that dream doesn’t turn into a logistical horror show somewhere between the first blueprint and the final handover. So what’s…

  • Moving with family? Here’s how to cut health costs in Thailand | Thaiger

    Moving with family? Here’s how to cut health costs in Thailand

    Relocating to Thailand with your family brings exciting new opportunities, but it also comes with the challenge of managing healthcare costs in a new system. Thailand has both public and private healthcare options, each offering different prices and quality of service. Understanding how to balance these options is important for keeping healthcare affordable while ensuring your family gets the care…

  • Phuket kicks off health expo to boost wellness tourism | Thaiger

    Phuket kicks off health expo to boost wellness tourism

    Phuket is on a mission to become the world’s top wellness tourism hub, and the island is off to a strong start with the launch of the Phuket Health Expo 2025. Kicking off yesterday, July 2, the five-day event, held at Central Festival Phuket, aims to position the island as the ultimate destination for health, wellness, and lifestyle tourism. The…

  • Skin scare: Thailand warns of itchy rash this rainy season | Thaiger

    Skin scare: Thailand warns of itchy rash this rainy season

    Thailand’s rainy season brings more than just wet weather—health officials are now alerting the public to a skin condition that commonly strikes during these damp months: Pityriasis Rosea. The Department of Medical Services has issued a health advisory urging citizens to be on the lookout for this uncomfortable rash that can affect thousands. Deputy government spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan revealed that…

  • The colours of Thai taxis, what do they mean? | Thaiger

    The colours of Thai taxis, what do they mean?

    If you’ve spent any time in Bangkok, chances are that you’ve noticed a fleet of Thai taxis, each marked by its own distinctive colours, whether it be hot pink, green-yellow, electric blue, or any shade in between. But what do they mean? At first glance, it may seem like a marketing ploy to make their vehicles stand out more, but…

  • Viet’s all, folks: Thailand left in digital ID dust by Vietnam | Thaiger

    Viet’s all, folks: Thailand left in digital ID dust by Vietnam

    Thailand has been caught napping again, as Vietnam surges ahead with yet another bold move to woo foreigners, slashing red tape and rolling out sleek new digital IDs for its growing expat population. On July 1, Hanoi launched a 50-day campaign to hand out free electronic identification to foreigners living, working, or studying in the country, and it’s already being…

  • Why trucks and buses in Thailand are moving works of art | Thaiger

    Why trucks and buses in Thailand are moving works of art

    Light bouncing off six dozen chrome-coated side-view mirrors. Rows of Michelin Man figurines sit proudly on the cabin roof. Sprawling intricate murals depicting anime characters, cartoon superheroes, and fantastical dreamscapes. If any of these images are familiar to you, then you’ve likely seen the elaborately decorated and modified lorries and buses in Thailand. Perhaps you’ve also wondered why these Thai…

  • British mother warns of deadly scrub typhus after Thailand trip | Thaiger

    British mother warns of deadly scrub typhus after Thailand trip

    A British mother from North Yorkshire, England, issued a stark warning about the risk and dangers of catching a bacterial infection after her teenage daughter fell ill with alarming symptoms following a trip to Thailand. The infection, known as scrub typhus, is often overlooked by travellers but can be life-threatening if not treated in time. Earlier this year, the family…

  • How Thailand’s boldest businesses are scaling with intention | Thaiger

    How Thailand’s boldest businesses are scaling with intention

    What was once considered a visionary trend has become the engine of growth for businesses everywhere. In Thailand, forward‑thinking enterprises are no longer debating the question Should we adopt AI? but to focusing on How can we use it as a strategic advantage? We are living in an era where AI can optimise supply chains, automate decision-making, and personalise customer engagement…

  • Citi Foundation and Bangkok Community Help Foundation unveil the ‘Center of Dreams’ | Thaiger

    Citi Foundation and Bangkok Community Help Foundation unveil the ‘Center of Dreams’

    Citi Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting economic stability and social responsibility through a funding grant of 16.5 million Thai baht to the Bangkok Community Help Foundation for the establishment of the Center of Dreams, the first homeless shelter located in Bangkok’s inner city. The centre offers essential facilities as well as vocational skills training. By the end of…