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 Where to shop for sports gear at Jungceylon Phuket
Phuket might be known for its beaches and nightlife, but the island also has a thriving fitness culture. From Muay Thai gyms to beach runs at sunrise, staying active is part of daily life for many who live here (as...
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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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Getting the best out of Koh Samui’s White Lotus frenzy
The island of Koh Samui shimmers like a jewel in the Gulf of Thailand. Its powdery white sand beaches, fringed with swaying coconut palms, have long been a cherished secret for those seeking laid-back luxury. But, as with all secrets, this one couldn’t stay hidden forever. Recently, the island’s gentle ocean breeze has carried more than just the scent of…
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How to ride a bus in Bangkok
Beyond Bangkok’s reliable BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems, the city also offers an extensive bus network that continues to serve as a vital transportation option for residents and visitors. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and Thai Smile Bus (TSB) operate a comprehensive fleet of buses that will help you get around Bangkok. Plus, it is a nice and cheaper…
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Moo Deng: Thailand’s personality of the year
Time magazine’s annual selection for Person of the Year often reflects on the individuals who have captured global attention. While it is usually presidents and influential figures, it is clear here in Thailand who truly deserves the title. Forget the political icons—our beloved Moo Deng, the pint-sized pygmy hippo, has captured hearts, taken over social media, and established herself as…
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Some like it hot: Phuket property market in 2024
As we stepped into 2025, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at the hottest property trends in Thailand’s largest leisure destination—Phuket. One of the most notable developments is the increasing presence of major Thai-listed property groups on the island, following an oversupply of properties in Bangkok. At the same time, banks are tightening credit to domestic real…
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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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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 5 reasons to stay in a seaview room at the best hotel in Hua Hin
Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference when planning a getaway to Hua Hin. With its laid-back charm, beautiful beaches, many things to do, and a mix of luxury and tradition, Hua Hin is a haven for those seeking a relaxing escape. And when it comes to finding the best hotel in Hua Hin near the beach, Aviyana…
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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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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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Hideaway living redefined: Breathe, relax, and live the dream at Sunplay Pool Villas
As one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after countries to own real estate, Thailand certainly has no shortage of luxury pool villas where you can enjoy a resort-like lifestyle under the tropical sun. Recently, the new development Sunplay Pool Villas is turning heads for international buyers seeking a family home, a holiday retreat, and a sound investment property. Located in the…
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