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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Bangkok beats out hundreds of cities to land in the world’s top 5 for food
Bangkok has just been named one of the best food cities in the world, and honestly, if you’ve eaten here, you already know that. A new study by UK-based long-haul travel specialists Travelbag ranked Bangkok fifth on their list of the world’s top foodie destinations for 2026. The ranking looked at four key factors across 36 cities globally: the number…
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Makha Bucha Day 2026: What is it and why is it observed in Thailand?
Makha Bucha Day is a national Buddhist holiday in Thailand observed on Tuesday, March 3 2026. It honours a pivotal event in early Buddhism more than 2,500 years ago, when 1,250 of the Buddha’s disciples spontaneously gathered to hear his teachings without prior arrangement, a moment seen as a reminder of commitment to Buddhist principles. Makha Bucha, which falls in Thailand,…
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10 things you absolutely cannot bring into Thailand
Your vape just got you arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport. You thought it was fine, legal in your home country, tucked discreetly in your carry-on. But Thailand does not care if what you bring is legal back home. The customs officer is now holding your device, citing a 2014 import ban, and you are facing up to 10 years in prison…
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Thailand Good Travel certification ceremony under the Thailand Green Plan 2030 initiative
Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, hosted the Thailand Good Travel Sustainable Tourism Certification Ceremony under the Thailand Green Plan 2030 initiative, held under the concept Champions of Change: Showcasing Models of Transformation Toward Sustainability. The event celebrated and honoured tourism destinations and operators that have successfully met national sustainability standards, while promoting the strengths of Thailand’s tourism…
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Arriving in Thailand with too much cash? Here’s what to do
You step off the plane at Suvarnabhumi Airport with an oddly specific stack of US$25,000 tucked into your carry-on, maybe it’s relocation savings, a property deposit, or business capital. At the gate, the question hits you as you approach baggage claim: Do you need to declare this? The short answer: yes. But the exact threshold that triggers a mandatory declaration…
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Why you still can’t get a direct flight from the US to Thailand
Thailand welcomed more than 35 million international visitors in 2024, and interest from US travellers continues to grow. Undoubtedly, Thailand has become a bucket-list destination for many Americans. Yet a question remains: Why are there still no direct flights between the United States and Thailand? In reality, the answer is quite complex. A mix of aviation regulation, airline economics, aircraft…
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Is family health insurance in Thailand worth it?
A family’s day in Thailand can change in an instant when an accident sends a child to the emergency room, with medical bills rising beyond USD 10,000 within hours. While Thailand appeals to many expat families for its safety, lifestyle, and education options, healthcare costs can be high, especially at private hospitals. For families living in Thailand long-term or meeting…
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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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Travel in Lisa’s footsteps across 6 stunning locations in Thailand
When the Tourism Authority of Thailand unveiled Lisa Manobal as the official “Amazing Thailand Ambassador” on January 28, at a spectacular event against the illuminated backdrop of Wat Arun, they created a roadmap for anyone who wants to travel Thailand with Lisa as their guide. The BLACKPINK superstar’s “Feel All the Feelings” campaign showcases six breathtaking locations that capture Thailand’s…
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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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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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The friendliest Thai cities for foreigners
Thailand is often called the Land of Smiles, but some cities feel especially welcoming to foreigners. Places like Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Chiang Rai, Koh Samui, and Khon Kaen are known for friendly locals, relaxed lifestyles, and strong community spirit. Expats often say these areas make it easy to settle in, connect with people, and feel at home, whether in…
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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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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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The best New Year’s eve dinners around Thailand
New Year’s Eve dinner in Thailand is never just about eating. It’s about sitting somewhere you actually want to stay, ordering another drink without checking the time, and letting the night go by until midnight sneaks up on the table. This list is for people who want their last meal of the year to feel like a moment. Big buffets,…
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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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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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What expats in Thailand wish they knew before moving here
The Thaiger key takeaways Visa rules, documentation, and reporting requirements are stricter and more complex than most newcomers expect. Healthcare quality varies widely, and many expats rely on private hospitals due to faster service and English-speaking staff. Cultural norms, daily expenses, weather risks, and safety concerns take adjustment but become manageable with preparation. Moving to Thailand is exciting, but many…
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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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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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What is the Maneki Neko (lucky cat) in Thai shops
Stroll around the neighbourhoods in Bangkok or anywhere else in Thailand, and you’ll spot tiny cats waving at you with one paw in a steady motion. They sit near tills, on restaurant counters, and in the corners of tiny market stalls. You’ll see them in other parts of the world, too, most often in a Chinatown. These cats are the…
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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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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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