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 Is private health insurance in Thailand worth it? Real costs vs risks explained
Thailand has a strong healthcare system with both public and private options. Public hospitals offer affordable care, but many people, including expats, choose private health insurance for faster service, modern facilities, and more treatment choices. To decide if private health...
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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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Tsunami survivor’s story: A journey from chaos to hope
The Indian Ocean tsunami touched countless lives, claiming more than 230,000 people across 14 countries. In Thailand alone, over 8,000 perished. What would you do in such a situation? How would you react if you found yourself in the “warzone” of your life, with only seconds to act? These are the questions the tsunami compels us to confront. The answers…
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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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Bangkok joins Dubai and Miami as top global playground cities
Ultra-luxury global consumer brands from the fashion and auto sectors are moving into the real estate space in Asia as a natural extension of their powerful brand-led businesses – resetting the map of international buyers who are crossing borders like never before. The surge in investment from overseas buyers, who can be more accurately defined as collectors of limited-edition assets,…
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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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What it’s like to own a luxury villa in Phuket: Inside Botanica Four Seasons
Waking up to the birds chirping, with the first ray of sunlight filtering through the trees and the glint of your private pool sparkling in the morning light – sounds like a perfect dream, right? Well, it could be your regular Wednesday morning at Botanica Four Seasons, a luxury villa collection in Phuket by the renowned Botanica Luxury Villas. If…
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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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The benefits of dating a Thai guy
If you’ve ever experienced Thai hospitality, you know it feels like a warm hug for the soul. Now, imagine that kindness and charm wrapped into a relationship, it’s no wonder so many people find dating Thai guys an irresistible idea! Beyond their handsome smiles and laid-back vibe, there’s a lot more to love. Here are some benefits of dating a…
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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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How to choose the perfect family-friendly property in Phuket
Phuket has long attracted visitors from around the globe with its golden beach and lush green hills. Many come for a holiday and leave captivated, often deciding they want a piece of the island for themselves. That’s why, despite fluctuations in the market, Phuket continues to be a lucrative destination for property investment. The post-pandemic tourism boom, along with a…
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Surprising yadom facts you probably didn’t know
If you’ve spent time in Thailand, you’ve probably seen yadom or those small, refreshing inhalers. They’re everywhere: taxis, offices, schools, even at cafes. But while they’re common here, yadom is a curiosity for expats. Let’s dive into the details, from its cultural role to clever uses you may not know about. Cultural significance of yadom in Thailand Yadom isn’t just…
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The risks of overusing yadom
If you’ve spent any time in Thailand, you’ve probably come across yadom, the small nasal inhalers you see everywhere. While yadom is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of if you’re using it often or if you have specific health conditions. This guide covers what you need to know about safe yadom use, including the potential downsides…
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Social media and cancel culture in Thailand
Today, anyone with a platform can be ‘cancelled’ on social media, and in Thailand, that’s no different. Social media has become a powerful place where people connect, share views, and hold others accountable. But in Thailand, cancel culture isn’t just about calling out celebrity mistakes. It often ties into politics, societal expectations, and cultural identity. In this article, we will…
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How TikTok trends shape Thai pop culture
If you’ve noticed people in Thailand randomly breaking into TikTok dances or throwing out catchy new slang, you’re seeing TikTok’s influence in action. The platform is more than just a hub for addictive short videos, it’s reshaping Thailand’s pop culture, subtly influencing everything from fashion to the way people talk. Here’s how this digital phenomenon has woven itself into Thai…
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Botanica Luxury Villas offers family-friendly homes in Phuket’s best locations
Thanks to its natural beauty, world-class amenities, top international schools, and even a well-connected international airport, Phuket is a charming destination for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle with modern conveniences. With so much to offer, deciding to live on the island is easy. The only challenge? Choosing the perfect place to call home. Botanica Luxury Villas, one of Thailand’s premier…
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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…
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What can a foreigner own in Thailand?
Ranked as the 6th most expat-friendly country globally, Thailand offers a welcoming environment for international citizens, though some legal restrictions do apply. While Thai law places certain limitations on foreign ownership and investment, these regulations vary depending on the type of asset or business venture you’re interested in. Whether you’re an expat looking to invest in Thailand or planning to…
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Phuket transforms into a global luxury hub for the elite
Phuket has changed dramatically in recent years. Fringed by the Andaman Sea, the tropical oasis has evolved from a popular beach resort destination into one of the world’s most attractive luxury residential markets, with elite luxury consumer brands, Michelin dining and international quality education and medical care fuelling the interest. The Phuket Luxury Report, unveiled at a recent event and…
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10 ways people have tried to win the Thai Lottery
The Thai Government lottery is one of the biggest deals in the country. Around any Thai street, you will see vendors on the side with their boxes that contain slips of paper with lottery numbers that you can buy for various costs, typically 80 to 100 or even more baht). With so many participating, what are the chances to win…
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Why are there so many shopping malls in Bangkok?
Why are there so many shopping malls in Bangkok!? They take up space, create traffic, draw more people to the area, and more. Have you ever looked and found that another construction is in process, another mall, influx of construction workers, cars, and eager mall goers and found yourself just flabbergasted by the sudden existence of this mall or malls…
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The income of the top 1% in Thailand
While many Westerners associate Asian wealth primarily with countries like Singapore and Japan, Thailand has its own population of Hi-So “ultra-wealthy individuals”. The country’s wealth distribution reveals that while not considered a rich nation overall, Thailand has a notable number of individuals in the top 1% income bracket. Reaching the top 1% of income in European countries typically requires a…
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Why is Thailand no longer called Siam?
If you’ve been curious about why Thailand was once called Siam and what led to the name change, you’re not alone. This is a common question among anyone who noticed Siam referenced in historic sites, movies, and even in the names of places such as Bangkok’s Siam Square. Here’s a look at the history behind the name change, the reasons…
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