Thailand Travel
Thailand travel news, visa updates, flight schedules, hotels, and top attractions—stay informed with essential tips for a seamless journey. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for Thailand travel updates.
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Love, luck, and the sea: February travel ideas near Bangkok
February is a good month for short escapes. The weather is comfortable and with Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day, you have a reason to step away from routine for a night or two. If you’re looking to spend time by the sea somewhere close to Bangkok, Sriracha and nearby Koh Si Chang are fantastic options. Chinese New Year by…
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Where to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Thailand
Valentine’s Day is coming in hot again, and no, you don’t have to panic-book the first candlelit table you see. Thailand does romance in many lanes, from private islands where the world politely disappears, to riverside dinners that feel cinematic. Here are the best ones. Where to go Date Location Why it’s special The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort…
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Thailand reforms business, visa, and social laws to attract global expats
Thailand is undertaking its most comprehensive expatriate policy overhaul in decades, introducing reforms across business law, visa regulations, property ownership, and civil rights that collectively aim to position the country as Southeast Asia’s premier destination for foreign residents and investors. Announced progressively throughout 2024 and early 2025, these reforms respond to regional competition for foreign talent and investment, particularly as…
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Thailand vs. Vietnam vs. Malaysia: Which is better for long-term living?
Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia have each carved out their own space in the long-term expat landscape. Thailand offers dependable healthcare and a well-established expat infrastructure. Vietnam stands out for rock-bottom costs and relentless urban energy. Malaysia brings modern living standards, cultural diversity, and an English-speaking environment that makes settling in remarkably smooth. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. The right choice…
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Chiang Mai and Phuket rank in world’s top 10 cities for solo travellers
Thailand has secured two spots in the global top 10 destinations for solo travellers, with Chiang Mai ranking sixth and Phuket placing tenth in a new study by long-haul travel specialists Travelbag. The rankings analysed 36 destinations worldwide on safety, affordability and accessibility, arriving as 76% of solo travellers now prioritising safety as their most important factor. On this page…
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The digital nomad’s guide to healthcare and insurance in Thailand
Thailand continues to attract digital nomads with its rich culture, fast internet, and strong healthcare system. Many private hospitals meet international standards and offer English-speaking doctors, making medical care reliable and easy to access for foreigners. Health insurance also plays a key role, especially for those staying long-term or applying for visas such as the Destination Thailand Visa or the…
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Singha Park Chiang Rai celebrates 10th anniversary of International Balloon Fiesta with grand showcase of 30+ balloons from 13 nations
Singha Park Chiang Rai celebrates its spot as a “World Class Love Destination,” preparing to host the largest international balloon festival in ASEAN, “Singha Park International Balloon Fiesta 2026,” for the 10th time. The event is set to transform the Chiang Rai sky with the colours of over 30 balloons from 13 countries worldwide to welcome the month of love…
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Thailand’s best beach towns for long-term living (2026)
Thailand’s coastline has always been a draw, but when it comes to long-term living, there’s more to consider than a pretty beach. These days, many of Thailand’s beach towns have grown into liveable, well-connected hubs with strong expat communities, international hospitals, and real infrastructure. Still, each place brings its own rhythm, costs, and quirks. Before we begin, ask yourself this:…
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Thailand dominates global night market rankings with 3 markets in the top 10
When was the last time you wandered through a night market surrounded by sizzling street food and that electric energy that only comes alive after dark? If you’re in Thailand, you’re spoiled for choice, and now there’s proof the Kingdom’s night markets rank among the planet’s best. A new study by long-haul travel specialists Travelbag has crowned Bangkok’s Chatuchak Weekend…
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Public holidays and observances in Thailand (2026)
As we step into 2026, now’s the perfect time to plan your year in Thailand. From nationwide festivals to regional celebrations, these public holidays shape everything from travel schedules to business operations and social gatherings. Here are our key dates for Thailand’s holidays and observances for 2026. Thailand holidays for January 2026 January 1 (Thursday) – New Year’s Day: A…
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Planning a Thailand trip in 2026? Here’s what the border conflict with Cambodia means for you
Yes, Thailand is safe to visit in 2026, but you need to avoid specific border areas. Despite ongoing military tensions with Cambodia, the vast majority of Thailand remains completely unaffected by the conflict. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui, and Krabi are continuing to operate normally with no reported security disruptions. The fighting is strictly confined to remote border…
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How different ages experience healthcare in Thailand (40s, 50s, 60s, 70s)
Thailand offers strong healthcare through public services and excellent private hospitals for all ages. As expats move from their 40s into later decades, their needs shift from simple screenings to managing chronic conditions and planning for long-term care. Planning early helps avoid gaps in coverage, and international insurance like Cigna provides wide hospital access and high limits to stay protected…
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Top Places to celebrate the New Year Countdown in Thailand 2026
Be honest. You’ve already started thinking about where you’re counting down. New Year celebrations in Thailand is never just one night; it’s a full-scale, multi-day celebration. Fireworks light up the sky, stages come alive across the city, lineups feature must-see artists, and the crowd energy strikes the perfect balance between excitement and pure fun. From riverfront blowouts and mall takeovers…
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Staying safe on the road during Thailand’s Christmas and New Year holidays
Thailand’s Christmas and New Year holidays are a time of joy, travel, and celebration. However, this busy season also brings a sharp rise in road accidents, with hundreds of lives lost each year. Most crashes involve motorcycles, often linked to speeding, drunk driving, and low visibility, making the roads especially risky for both locals and visitors. For travellers, having the…
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The best Thai cities for a quiet, comfortable life
Thailand is a great place for expats who want a quiet life surrounded by nature and modern comforts. These cities offer peaceful living, affordable costs, and easy access to healthcare, making them ideal for long-term stays. With Cigna’s international health plans providing reliable coverage at trusted hospitals across Thailand, expats can settle in and enjoy a relaxed, confident lifestyle. Best…
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Is it better to travel before or after the New Year in Thailand?
Thailand’s year-end holiday period presents travellers with a dilemma: join the festive chaos of late December, or wait until January when things calm down? With the 2025 to 2026 season approaching, this decision carries more weight than usual. The Thai government has declared an extended five-day holiday from December 31, 2025, to January 4, 2026, creating a double-peak where international…
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How hard is it to get a Thai visa during Christmas and the New Year?
For many travellers and expats, the end-of-year holiday season is both a festive and logistical hurdle. Whether you’re planning a quick return to Thailand or managing your visa renewal as an expat, the Christmas and New Year period can complicate things. So, how hard is it to get a Thai visa during this busy time of year with Christmas and…
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Renting a car in Thailand for the Christmas holiday in 2025: What you need to know
As the festive season approaches, many expats and tourists in Thailand are planning their holiday getaways. While flying and public transport are common choices, renting a car offers unmatched freedom, whether you’re heading to the mountains of Chiang Mai, the islands of the south, or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. But before you hit the road, here’s everything you need to know…
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Cheap flights in Thailand you can find this Christmas and New Year’s holiday
As the festive season approaches, Thailand’s airports start buzzing with flight activity. Whether you’re planning a domestic beach escape or a long-haul adventure abroad, finding a cheap flight during Christmas and New Year’s is no small feat. With high demand, prices spike quickly, and the best deals are often snapped up months in advance. But if you’re just starting your…
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BigC Thailand Lucky Landing wins big and gives tourists a new reason to shop in Thailand
The Thaiger key takeaways BigC won the Gold Award for Excellence in Retail and Shopper Marketing for its BigC Thailand Lucky Landing campaign. The campaign saw rapid growth on XHS, with major increases in followers, engagement and post views. Online excitement led to real results in stores, including higher footfall and strong coupon redemption rates. Visitors coming to Thailand always…
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Which countries are exempted from needing a visa to come to Thailand?
When planning a trip to Thailand, one of the first questions many travellers ask is, “Do I need a visa to enter?” The answer depends on your nationality and the length of your intended stay. As of 2025, Thailand has updated its visa exemption and tourist visa policies, aiming to make travel more flexible and attractive for a wider range…
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How to make sure that your health insurance meets Thailand’s visa requirements
If you plan to stay in Thailand for a long time, you must have health insurance that meets the country’s visa rules. This applies to Retirement (O-A and O-X) visas and Long-Term Resident (LTR) visas. Each visa type requires a minimum level of coverage for both inpatient and outpatient care, and some also need Covid-19 protection. Several approved Thai insurance…
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Kora Sky rooftop shines as Miss Universe welcome dinner host in Phuket
Kora Sky Rooftop Lounge by Kora Beach Resort Phuket officially opened its doors on November 8, 2025, hosting the spectacular and exclusive Moonlight Sky Gala welcome dinner for the 74th Miss Universe. The inaugural evening marked both the grand debut of Phuket’s most anticipated new venue and the beginning of the international pageant’s activities in Phuket, welcoming contestants and distinguished…
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Phuket’s fitness boot camps: Why expats fly across the world to train here
Phuket has built a global reputation for many things, including tropical beaches, vibrant nightlife, and bustling tourism, among them. But in recent years, another scene has quietly exploded on the island’s southern coast: fitness boot camps. From complete lifestyle overhauls to elite-level training, Phuket has become a destination where people fly in, sometimes from halfway around the world, not to…
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Lopburi’s survival guide for monkeys: 10 tips to keep your snacks and sanity intact
Lopburi, Thailand’s ancient city filled with Khmer ruins, scenic temples, and monkeys. Lots of monkeys. While most people come for the culture and history, many leave with stories about simians stealing their sunglasses, water bottles, or in more dramatic cases, their sanity. So before you find yourself locked in a staredown with a macaque over a half-eaten banana, here’s your…
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Is expat health insurance in Thailand actually worth it?
The Thaiger key takeaways Foreigners aren’t covered by public healthcare, making private hospital costs a major concern. Insurance offers financial protection and access to better medical care. Whether it’s worth it depends on your stay length, health, lifestyle, and budget. Thailand is a favourite destination for expats, known for its warm weather, rich culture, and affordable lifestyle. But as more…
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Addressing the change in the alcohol laws in Thailand
Thailand’s alcohol regulations have long been a source of confusion for both tourists and residents. But as of late 2025, the Thai government has officially made adjustments to two key aspects of its alcohol policy. These changes mark a shift toward a more flexible and tourism-friendly approach, while still retaining Thailand’s broader public health framework. Here’s what’s new under the…
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Why Amari Bangsaen is the ideal destination for digital nomads and business travellers
The Thaiger key takeaways Just an hour from Bangkok, Amari Bangsaen combines a productive workspace, reliable Wi-Fi, and scenic seaside views for the ideal workation. From modern meeting rooms to beach cafés and spa treatments, the hotel is designed for both work and relaxation. With easy airport access, large event spaces, and coastal charm, Amari Bangsaen makes business travel feel…
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Travel vs international health insurance: Which coverage do you need overseas?
The Thaiger key takeaways Travel insurance is ideal for short-term trips, covering emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage, but not routine care. International health insurance suits expats and long-term residents, offering full medical coverage, including checkups, maternity, and chronic care. Choosing the right plan helps you meet visa rules, avoid high bills, and access reliable healthcare abroad — with trusted providers…
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