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 Limited-time deal: Save 20% on Cigna's expat health plans forever
Starting a new life abroad is exciting—new culture, new lifestyle, and new chances to grow. But living far from home also means taking steps to protect your health in unfamiliar surroundings. Without the right coverage, even small health issues can...
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Bangkok through time: A city in flux and its spirit of resilience
The recent earthquake, brief but unnerving, reminded residents that nothing, not even concrete or glass, is entirely fixed. And yet, in true Bangkok fashion, life carried on. Commuters returned to the skytrain. Street vendors lit their woks. The Chao Phraya kept flowing. In this fleeting moment of disruption, the city’s rhythm barely faltered, its quiet resilience taking centre stage. It…
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Why are boat noodles served in tiny bowls and why you’ll need at least five
If you’ve ever sat down at a boat noodle shop in Thailand and been surprised by the size of the bowl, you’re not alone. Boat noodles, or kuai tiao ruea (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ), are famously served in bowls so small you could almost finish one in three slurps. But behind these tiny servings lies a rich tradition that has helped turn the…
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Thailand’s thrift culture is reviving 2000s fashion
The return of butterfly hair clips, low-rise jeans, cargo pants, and baby tees might feel like just another passing trend on TikTok but there’s more to the Y2K revival than nostalgia and glittery accessories. Around the world, and especially here, Y2K fashion Bangkok is quietly or not so quietly making its way back into the mainstream. What used to sit…
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How Southeast Asia can capitalise on The White Lotus Effect
Since The White Lotus checked into Thailand, so has the rest of the world, or at least, they’re trying to. With sweeping drone shots of Koh Samui’s turquoise waters, and a cast of rich, unhappy people sweating their way through wellness retreats, infinity pools and luxury suites, Thailand has never looked more glamorous. To understand the real impact behind the…
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Why families with children are choosing Bang Tao
Families today think differently when it comes to finding the right place to live. The decision is no longer based only on house size or scenic views. Safety, education, a strong sense of community, and long-term well-being are now essential priorities. A home is more than a property — it is the foundation for everyday life. It shapes childhood memories,…
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PEANUTS x IPPUDO: A first-ever collaboration to celebrate 75 iconic years
Do you love eating Japanese ramen noodles in Thailand? Do you also happen to be a huge fan of the PEANUTS franchise? If that’s the case, I believe I have the biggest news for you. IPPUDO is proudly presenting their first-ever collaboration with the global phenomenon that is PEANUTS which includes famous characters such as Charlie Brown and Snoopy himself. …
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Phuket’s new lifestyle communities: Embracing nature and wellness
Phuket is known for its beautiful landscapes and stunning beaches, making it a popular spot for tourists and people looking for tropical living. Recently, though, there’s been a shift in the type of communities in Phuket that is quickly gaining traction. More and more, people are looking for homes that are connected to nature, sustainable, and focused on wellness and…
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Khao Lak’s new surf town and exciting developments
The newly launched Matalay Integrated Resort Town is an ambitious 1,000-rai (400-acre) development project aimed at transforming Khao Lak in Phang Nga Province into a premier tourism destination. The name “Matalay,” meaning “come to the sea,” reflects the resort’s vision of creating a comprehensive town featuring luxury accommodations, recreational facilities, and entertainment options designed to attract both domestic and international…
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Koh Samui real estate booms thanks to ‘The White Lotus’
Koh Samui, the popular resort island in Surat Thani province, is set to see a surge in demand for luxury condominiums and villas this year, according to investment management firm Colliers Thailand. The latest season of the hit American TV series The White Lotus was filmed at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, with additional scenes shot at Anantara…
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Tourism boom drives residential-led hospitality investments in Phuket
Thailand’s tourism boom is driving lifestyle investments as traveller traffic morphs into a desire to stay longer in the country. The number one beneficiary is Phuket, where arrivals continue to soar with a 23% increase in 2024 compared to the previous year for a total of 8.65 million arrivals registered at Phuket International Airport. The key trend emerging, according to…
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Unforgettable LGBTQ bars in Bangkok for party lovers
In Thailand, Mai Pen Rai—meaning no big deal—is the national catchphrase for, well, just about everything. And guess what? That laid-back, fun-loving attitude extends to its buzzing LGBTQ scene too! As one of the most pro-LGBTQ nations, Thailand is packed with the most fun, exciting, and downright legendary spots to get drunk and connect with fellow friends in Bangkok’s diverse…
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Foreigners rush to buy Phuket villas on long-term leases
Thailand’s property market is witnessing a real estate revolution, as foreigners snap up houses on long-term leases instead of just condominiums. This trend, particularly in tourist hotspots like Phuket, Chon Buri, and Surat Thani, has been booming since Thailand reopened its borders in 2021. According to Dr Wichai Wiratkaphan, an independent scholar in urban development and housing, the leasehold market…
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Life with a dog in Bangkok: Adventures with Beans
I recently met with dog owners Shannon and Stuart with their cocker spaniel, Beans, at a cafe in Bangkok. While we talked, Beans lay politely under the table, his floppy ears resting on his paws, completely at ease in the lively atmosphere. I had been scrolling through Instagram a week earlier when I first came across Beans. His goofy haircut,…
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Have you eaten rice today? A love language shrouded in simplicity
In many parts of Asia, especially Thailand, rice is life. It’s the steaming bowl that soothes after a long day, the humble plate shared among friends and family. It’s the ever-present comfort food that feels like a warm hug. As one of the world’s largest rice exporters, Thailand’s relationship with rice goes far beyond economics. Here, rice doesn’t just fill…
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Use your DTV Visa to open a bank account with FITFAC
Many expats holding a DTV Visa may encounter difficulties when trying to open a Thai bank account, as almost every bank refuses to provide account services for DTV Visa holders. The primary concern for banks is that accounts opened by foreigners could be used for illegal financial activities such as online gambling, romance scams, or even money laundering. These policies…
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10 things to know before watching The White Lotus Season 3
The highly anticipated third season of The White Lotus has just been released, and this time, it was set in Thailand! With Lisa from BLACKPINK joining the cast, the first episode aired on February 16, on the MAX application and excitement is still at an all-time high. Before we dive into the chaos that awaits at this luxurious resort, let’s…
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From ICONSIAM to One Bangkok: Mentabuild, the consultancy firm behind Thailand’s most ambitious developments
If you’ve ever set foot in Bangkok and looked up at its towering skyline, there’s a good chance you’ve seen Mentabuild’s work, whether you realised it or not. Founded over 40 years ago, this construction consultancy firm has played a big role in shaping Thailand’s urban landscape. From massive mixed-use developments to sleek corporate offices, Mentabuild makes sure projects get…
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Why is it raining heavily in Bangkok?
Bangkok and many parts of Thailand are currently experiencing heavy rain, which is expected to persist throughout the week. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued warnings for severe thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy downpours across 33 provinces. But what’s causing this unusual weather, and how does it relate to Thailand’s monsoon patterns? What’s causing the heavy rain in Bangkok?…
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The art of building on a budget: Your guide to construction cost management with Mentabuild
Budgeting in construction can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. You need to balance quality, cost and timelines. A Quantity Surveyor (QS) plays a vital role in this process. They work to make sure that budgets are set up appropriately, costs are controlled and project financial and commercial goals are achieved. But managing budgets, especially for a construction project, isn’t…
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Thailand’s southern coast fuels tourism & investment as next step destinations
Thailand’s southern coast triangle, an emerging confluence of international airports in Koh Samui, Surat Thani, and now Nakhon Si Thammarat, is fast becoming a key driver of tourism and investment along the Gulf of Thailand. A recent 1.46 billion baht investment into Nakhon Si Thammarat International Airport is accelerating this transformation, according to a new report from C9 Hotelworks on…
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What happens in Thailand stays: Unpacking the themes of The White Lotus
The White Lotus returns on February 16 for its much-anticipated third season, this time in idyllic Kho Samui. The trailer teases us with glimpses of candlelit shrines, full-moon parties, luxury spas, and, of course, monkeys which is a motif that seems to hint at some deeper themes. While I can’t claim to know exactly what will happen, I have some…
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Meet Utopia Corporation, the real estate developer building dreams in Phuket
Phuket has always been a place of dreams. With its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and rich culture, it’s no wonder people from all over the world are drawn to its shores. But what if this island could offer more than a luxurious escape? What if it could provide a home for everyone, where living is not just about comfort but…
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What’s new with Thailand’s LTR Visa? Here’s what you need to know about the update
Have you been dreaming of living and working in Thailand? If yes, there’s never been a better time than today, as the Thai government just updated the qualifications, criteria, and conditions for the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa programme. Thanks to these changes, the visa is now more inclusive, family-friendly, and accessible than ever before. Here’s the lowdown on what’s new,…
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The Island Collection Villas, where luxury meets tranquillity in Phuket’s most sought-after location
Phuket has seen a strong comeback in property value, especially for high-end villas and condos close to exclusive beaches like Layan. And as tropical island living becomes more attractive than ever, buyers seek properties that offer both luxury and serenity. Completed in November 2024 with just nine exclusive pool villas available, The Island Collection Villas meet this demand perfectly. Developed…
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FazWaz assumes control of Lifull Connect for Thai global real estate leadership and innovation
Phuket-found PropTech company FazWaz has taken over Lifull Connect, the world’s largest real estate aggregation network, solidifying its position as a leader in the global real estate market. This milestone showcases the potential of Thai companies to succeed internationally. FazWaz and Thaiger share core shareholders which emphasises their joint commitment to advancing Thai businesses globally and reinforcing Phuket’s growing reputation…
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Why more professionals and families are choosing Phuket for their holiday escapes (and why smart investors are buying in)
Phuket is a paradise for all. The sandy beaches allow kids to run free, enabling the parents to take in the sun and relax on pristine beaches whilst the temples and markets somehow make everyone who visits fall in love with the simplistic lifestyle. There’s more than enough luxury to make it all feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But in…
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Condo or resort? Inside PEYLAA, the upcoming Phuket project that promises to let you live the moment
Life in Phuket feels like a perpetual holiday. Time seems to slow down, nature becomes a part of your daily rhythm, and the ordinary becomes anything but mundane. Simple pleasures, like sipping coffee on your balcony or taking an evening stroll along the beach, become extraordinary. This is the life that PEYLAA Phuket Bang Tao promises to deliver with its…
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Thailand’s new luxury lies in wellbeing, culinary tourism, and brands
For Thailand to seize the potential of luxury tourism and hospitality in 2025, the country needs to go deeper with high-equity branded residences, regenerative wellness and culinary tourism set to determine the destiny of the country becoming Asia’s luxury tourism hub. The importance of brands in Thailand is turning Bangkok into a global playground city while the shift in values…
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Is it normally this cold in Thailand in January?
Thailand is a country known for its beaches, nightlife, and sun. Countless people escape their home places to take solace in the Kingdom’s warmth in both the environment and with its people. However, Thailand is pretty cold right now and it is as much of a surprise for those living in a major city like Bangkok where the morning (January…
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Why is Bangkok’s air quality so bad?
Imagine waking up early in Bangkok and you see all the beautiful morning fog from your balcony, but as you sip your coffee you realise it’s just Bangkok’s air pollution that’s making the sun rise aesthetic. Ranked as the 36th most air-polluted country in the world, Thailand has been facing challenges with air quality as of late. Many factors translate…
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