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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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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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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A practical way to think about healthcare when living in Thailand
Living in Thailand means co-existing with a healthcare system that’s brilliant in some ways and frustrating in others. Oftentimes, private hospitals feel like five-star hotels, with doctors trained internationally, and the costs seem reasonable compared to Western countries. Until you’re actually sitting in that consultation room without insurance, watching the bill climb. Here’s the thing most people don’t tell you…
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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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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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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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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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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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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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Overstay rules in Thailand: What happens, how much it costs, and how to resolve it
The Thaiger key takeaways Thailand enforces strict fines and penalties for staying beyond your permitted date, with no official grace period. Short overstays usually mean fines, while longer overstays can lead to bans, detention, or deportation. Resolving the issue quickly, either by leaving or contacting immigration, is essential to avoid serious consequences If you’ve ever lost track of dates while…
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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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See the best of Northern Thailand this winter on a budget
The Thaiger key takeaways Peak season brings higher prices, but smart planning and local know-how can help you experience Northern Thailand affordably. Chiang Mai, Pai, and Chiang Rai offer plenty of free or low-cost attractions, from temples and canyons to tea plantations and night markets. SafetyWing Nomad Insurance gives travellers peace of mind with flexible, borderless coverage ideal for long…
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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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Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) scams and how to protect yourself
Dozens of websites and sponsored ads are currently charging travellers money to submit the TDAC form within the standard 72-hour window, which is free through the official government TDAC portal. These scam ads often take up the entire first half of Google search results. Some of these websites also use government logos or “fast approval” messaging to appear official. A…
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What do you need before moving from the US to Thailand?
The Thaiger key takeaways The most common medical emergencies for expats in Thailand include motorcycle accidents, tropical diseases, and food or water-borne illnesses. Air pollution and heat-related conditions like heatstroke also pose serious seasonal health risks, especially in northern and coastal areas. Having reliable medical insurance, such as SafetyWing, helps cover emergencies, hospital care, and evacuation, giving expats peace of…
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Best islands to visit in Thailand before peak tourism season hits
The Thaiger key takeaways November is the sweet spot. The month offers sunshine without the crowds or inflated prices. The Andaman Sea and Eastern Gulf are dry and peaceful, while the Southern Gulf is still rainy. ravel insurance like SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance keeps you covered across Thailand’s islands for stress-free adventures. Thailand’s peak season (the cool and dry season from…
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The guide to affordable healthcare in Thailand
The Thaiger key takeaways Thailand’s healthcare system combines low-cost public services with world-class private hospitals. Private health insurance protects expats from major medical bills and meets visa requirements. Cigna offers expat-focused plans with direct billing, top hospital access, and 24/7 support. Thailand’s healthcare system is known for being both good and affordable. Many people in Asia choose the country for…
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Why retirees in Thailand are choosing long-term health insurance over quick fixes
The Thaiger key takeaways Short-term health plans leave retirees exposed to high costs and limited coverage. Long-term health insurance offers financial stability, full medical access, and peace of mind. Cigna’s flexible, expat-focused plans make retirement in Thailand safer and stress-free. Retirees in Thailand are increasingly seeing the importance of health insurance in protecting their well-being during retirement. With insurance requirements…
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