Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit

Bangkok may not have a winter wonderland, but we’ve got something even better – our own kind of summer fun. Sure, the heat can be scorching, but that’s all part of the build-up to Songkran – the water-splashing festival that grabs attention worldwide (and even made its way into The White Lotus season three). As the hottest season of the year hits, it’s the perfect excuse to grab your water guns, hit the streets and make a splash. And let’s be honest, the Songkran party wouldn’t feel complete without a drink or two. But with all the excitement, it’s easy to get carried away – the heat and alcohol combo can leave you feeling wiped out and no one wants dehydration spoiling the fun.  

Songkran in Bangkok isn’t just a festival – it’s an all-out citywide water battle. Clubs, hotels and department stores are turning up the heat (and the hoses), drenching the Big Mango in non-stop splash parties. With so many events happening at once, choosing where to go can be a challenge. To make things easier, we’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate this Thai New Year, from high-energy music festivals with world-class DJs to laid-back poolside escapes and family-friendly fun. Grab your tickets and get ready to soak it all in.

Thailand may be the only place in the world where splashing water on strangers is a cherished tradition and not a crime. Songkran, the legendary Thai New Year that falls on April 13-15, is renowned for its epic water fights. More than just a festival, it’s a celebration to wash away the old year and make room for the new.  From sunrise to sunset, many streets transform into a massive splash zone, with water fights, music and laughter filling the air. While the water-filled fun takes place nationwide, many in the Big Mango head to the busiest spots to get drenched. Here, the outdoor action is non-stop – and the best part is, it’s mostly free. Whether you're soaking up the vibrant vibes of Silom Road, embracing the tradition at Sanam Luang or exploring the quirky charm of Chang Chui, there's something for everyone without the need for tickets. Here are our top picks for places to jump into the action.   

I decided on Macau and spent 48 hours at THE KARL LAGERFELD MACAU, part of the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. Just a short flight from Bangkok, this five-star hotel is the only one in the world fully designed by and named after the fashion legend. His signature style is everywhere, from architecture to custom-made furniture and art. The mix of rock-chic vibes and elegant Chinoiserie? Absolutely stunning. As for food and downtime, I had an amazing meal at Mesa by José Avillez and Zuicho, the hotel’s signature restaurant and after a long day of exploring, the spa was exactly what I needed. Two days weren’t nearly enough to take it all in, but here’s a recap of my stay.

Attempting to put together a list of the 50 best restaurants in Bangkok is an unenviable task. No matter how hard you try, you’re going to be leaving out not just good restaurants, but mind-bendingly good restaurants. Indeed, the process of assembling the following list involved not only signal-boosting some of our favourite culinary craftspeople, but also a painful triage of a host of excellent venues. That’s just how dense with excellence this city is when it comes to quality dining.  What makes eating out here so brilliant is the sheer diversity – both cultural and economic – of the Big Mango’s food scene and our top 50 aims to reflect that. Were we to focus purely on the set-menu avant-garde and quiet-luxury omakase counters, it would be a disservice to a readership that doesn’t just want food to look at, photograph and read about, but wants to eat. Therefore, we include some of the city’s most dazzling palaces of haute cuisine alongside humble streetside vendors. We’re serious eaters more than withering critics, and Bangkok is a city full of serious eats. Hence, we want to share our favourites and leave it to you, the reader, to be the withering critic. Dive in and enjoy the ride!

There is such a variety of things to do across Thailand’s 76 provinces it can be a daunting task knowing where to start. The promise of peaceful villages, the excitement of sports, top-notch nightlife, island-hopping on a whim and great hospitality is all within reach. The country’s natural beauty and rich culture – from myriad festivals and markets, ancient Khmer-influenced ruins and contemporary art is matched by the diversity and hospitality of Thailand’s official 70 ethnic groups. Why wouldn’t you want to explore the entire kingdom?    Time Out recently ranked Bangkok as the second-best city in the world for 2025 and placed Chiang Mai at 28, making Thailand the only country in southeast Asia to have two cities in the top 50. But there’s a lot more than great cities. Here is Time Out Thailand’s guide to the best things to Do in Thailand.

Phuket has long been a favourite among travellers – and it's easy to see why. When you think of a getaway to this island peninsular, you can almost feel the warm sea breeze and soft, sun-kissed sand beneath your feet. But beyond the well-trodden tourist spots lies Karon Beach – Phuket’s longest expanse of pristine white sand overlooking the breathtaking Andaman Sea.  Perfectly blending the right amount of tranquillity and adventure, Karon Beach’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for dipping your toes in the surf on long beach walks while its sand is warm and inviting, perfect for sunbathing and a little you-time. However, because it’s Phuket, there’s a fair share of activities to be had too, from snorkelling and jet-skiing to vibrant beachfront dining and exceptional resort stays.Thavorn Palm Beach Resort is one of those resorts, standing out among its peers as an ideal host for that getaway you’ve been dreaming of for so long. This five-star resort blends old-world charm with tropical tranquillity, encompassing the soul of the beach on which it sits, with inviting, lagoon-style pools, spacious colonial-style rooms and direct beach access. And while it’s not the most modern resort in Phuket, its peaceful vibe and welcoming service makes it a solid pick for families, solo travellers and couples – so long as your idea of a getaway is all about sun, sand and serenity.

Thailand offers the full gamut of accommodations, from budget-friendly stays to high-end luxury hotels, proving why it remains one of the world’s top travel destinations. But with so many options, choosing the right one – especially if you want a great experience without emptying your wallet – can be tricky. That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite mid-range hotels across Thailand, covering destinations from Chiang Mai to Phuket and beyond. These hotels offer excellent value, whether for their location, design or simply their price. Staying at any of them gives you the kind of thrill that only a great deal can bring. So, start booking and put the money you save to better use. Need ideas? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Thailand and make the most of your trip.

Bangkok’s dining scene never ceases to impress with new restaurants constantly adding fresh energy to the city’s vibrant food landscape. While elegant fine dining establishments often steal the spotlight with their refined menus and impeccable presentation, casual eateries play an equally important role in shaping the city’s culinary identity. From bustling street-side stalls to trendy bistros, these spots capture the capital’s lively spirit through bold flavours, creative concepts and inviting atmospheres. If you’re planning a romantic evening for two, a laid-back family dinner or even a solo food adventure, there’s no shortage of exciting options. The city’s diverse culinary landscape continues to expand, offering everything from Cantonese and French delicacies to comforting Burmese dishes. Whether you’re drawn to modern fusion cuisine or timeless classics, there’s always something new to discover.

From swanky Thonglor nightclubs to rooftop bars in Silom with unmatched views, Time Out Bangkok searched through the city to find the greatest mixologists with their unrivaled cocktail concoctions. Scroll down for the list of our favorite cocktail bars in Bangkok. 

Looking for a quick beach escape from Bangkok? Pattaya is just a two-hour drive away and offers so much more than its wild nightlife. Think yacht charters, island-hopping adventures, indulgent Thai massages, great eats and perhaps most importantly a mega-celebrity pygmy hippo. Add world-class music festivals like Rolling Loud and Pelupo to the mix, and there’s something to keep everyone entertained.  For a getaway that breaks the mould, look no further than Kaleido Lifestyle. This hospitality brand, spearheaded by Pranai Phornprapha of Siam Motors Group, boasts incredible destinations like Siam@Siam Design Hotel and buzzing restaurants Chim Chim and TAAN. If you’re planning to hop between Bangkok and Pattaya, add these experiences to your travel list! 

Pizza is an irresistible aroma mix of yeasty dough, sweet and tangy tomato sauce, and rich and viscous cheese, with various toppings. Your favourites might be made from 48-hour dough or some twisted version of a local spicy dish. As a slice is never enough, we compile this year-end pizza list for you to choose from.

Retox Sessions is bringing the festival vibe to life with a night of music, water battles, and an epic party on April 12. This special edition invites you to groove and experience the iconic dance DJ – Sasha. With Grammy nominations, International Dance Music Awards and DJ Mag Awards under his belt, he’s redefined the electronic music scene with top-tier performances at renowned clubs and festivals. Now, he’s bringing the beats to the city for a celebration where you can party, splash and immerse yourself in the excitement of the Thai water festivities. April 12. B650 via here.  Escape Bangkok, Emquatier, 7pm onwards. 

When it comes to Bangkok’s nightlife landmarks, RCA is always at the top of the list. This Songkran, it’s not missing a beat with a four-day music extravaganza from April 11-14. Immerse yourself in pulsating beats, dazzling stage visuals and the electrifying atmosphere of global electronic music culture. Each night, internationally renowned electronic music stars, including Steve Aoki, Hardwell and Alesso will take the stage, igniting the crowd with their signature sounds. To top it off, carefully curated gourmet dishes and exclusive festival souvenirs will take your celebration to the next level. Apr 11-14. B1,800-B17,000 via here.  RCA Central Park, 4pm onwards

If you’re on the hunt for a kid-friendly spot to enjoy Songkran, Movenpick’s garden pool is worth checking out. This water-packed holiday is perfect for family and friends looking for two days of fun and excitement under the sun. Let your little ones delight in exhilarating water slides, splash around in the refreshing pool and take part in fun games made just for them. Meanwhile, you can savor tasty snacks and soak in the festive spirit all around you. April 12-13. B500 including one ice-cream and one soft drink via here. Movenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bagkok, 2pm-6pm 

Escape the Songkran chaos and unwind in a family-friendly oasis at The Sukhothai Bangkok’s spacious 3,000 square metre garden on April 12-13. Picture yourself surrounded by lush greenery, a gentle breeze and the joyful sounds of the festival in the air. This isn’t just about water fights – it’s about celebrating together. The kids will have a blast with bouncy inflatables and playgrounds, while the grown-ups can relax with live entertainment and enjoy tasty food and drinks. It’s a chance to make lasting memories and share some laughs with your loved ones.  April 12-13. Early bird from B400, regular tickets from B500 via LINE @SUKHOTHAIBANGKOK. The Sukhothai Garden, The Sukhothai Hotel Bangkok, 11am-9pm. 

Songkran Festival is all about fresh starts, wild water fights and non-stop celebrations. SO/ Bangkok is bringing two days of poolside revelry on April 12-13.  Imagine an action-packed experience filled with thrilling water battles, vibrant poolside fun and refreshing cocktails that will keep you cool throughout the festivities. As the beats drop, a stellar lineup of DJs, including Kid Massive, Mikey Mike and Fernista will keep the energy high and the party going all day and night.  April 12-13. B700-B1,300 via here. The Water Club, SO/ Bangkok, 1pm-9pm. 

Mad Stash is taking over The Westin Grande Sukhumvit for an epic pool party. A high-energy lineup of international DJs, including Alex Edels, Snowoff, Gera and Amberlux, will be spinning the best of tech house, afro house, and melodic techno all day long. Jump in the pool, soak up the sun, and dance like there’s no tomorrow. Don’t forget your swimsuits, shades and your biggest party mates – it’s going to be a wild one. April 12. B1,990-B40,000 via here. The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, 2pm-9pm. 

W Bangkok invites you to celebrate the Thai New Year in style with fun, luxury and festivities on April 13 at WET Deck on the sixth floor. This exclusive tropical escape features exciting performances from Groove, Aberlux, DJ Nana, DJ Natsha, DJ Joe Cola and Daniel. Enjoy a mix of electronic beats and dance music throughout the day, along with refreshing drinks from top-tier beverage brands, while soaking up the poolside vibes. April 13. Tickets start at B590 and table packages start at B8,500 via here. WET Dec, W Hotel, 2pm-9pm. 

Asia’s biggest gay party returns April 11–14 at UOB Hall and Tribe Sky Beach Club with the theme ‘GAIA 2.0: A Whole New World’, a futuristic, sci-fi-inspired spectacle. It kicks off on April 11 with illuminate, featuring DJs TAKI & RITA, Mario Beckman and Allan Natal. On April 12, the Bear Pool Party takes over Tribe Sky Beach Club, followed by cyberpunk with DJs CHU & SUN JUNE, Luis Vazquez and Alex Ramos. The party continues on April 13 with the boy pool party, leading into mercury rising at UOB Live Hall, headlined by DJs Grant Jang, Tomber Maizner and Sagi Kariv. It all wraps up on April 14 with automata, featuring DJs Brain Lao Cha, Herric Pu, Isak Salazar and Tom Stephan. April 11-14. B2,800-B4,100 via here and B3,400-B4,900 at the door.  UOB Hall Tribe, 7pm onwards and Sky Beach Club, midday onwards. 

Celebrating its tenth anniversary, this epic Songkran party is set to be bigger than ever. From April 12–14, Rajamangala Stadium will transform into a water-filled wonderland, hosting a global lineup of superstar DJs like Marshmello, Alan Walker and DJ Snake. Expect electrifying beats, dazzling lights and a spectacular mix of pyrotechnics and water effects as over 3,000 music lovers come together to dance, splash and celebrate. April 12-14. B2,480-B10,498 via here. Rajamangala Stadium, 4pm onwards. 

For a Bangkok stay that blends local charm with modern style, Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road brings the city’s energy right to your doorstep. Set in the heart of Wireless Road, this boutique hotel captures the capital’s mix of tradition and innovation, reflecting the neighbourhood’s history as a hub of Thai broadcasting and international embassies. From the vibrant street art to the retro radios decorating the interiors, every detail nods to the city’s rich culture. Rooms are a stylish mix of contemporary comfort and Thai character, featuring hardwood floors, colourful textiles and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase Bangkok’s skyline. Some even come with private balconies, a rare find among the city’s high-rise hotels. The infinity pool offers sweeping views of Bangkok’s skyline, and the 24-hour gym makes it easy to squeeze in a workout whenever you like. When it’s time to eat, Metro on Wireless serves up classic Thai dishes with a modern twist, and CHAR Bangkok is a popular destination for grilled meats and seafood, and from the rooftop bar, creative cocktails and unbeatable sunset views. Address:  81 Witthayu Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Price: From B6,402 per night

For an escape that blends tranquillity, nature and a touch of luxury without the sky-high price tag, The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort is a solid pick. Tucked along Tubkaak Beach, this beachfront retreat offers Andaman Sea views with a more secluded feel compared to Krabi’s busier spots. The resort’s Thai-style villas strike a balance between comfort and elegance. Whether you go for a garden room, a sea view suite or a pool Villa, you’ll get spacious interiors, warm wooden accents and thoughtful touches that help elevate  things above a typical resort stay. Some rooms come with open-air bathtubs for that extra bit of outdoor contemplation. There is a peaceful atmosphere here– ideal for travellers who want to unwind without feeling cut off from everything. The L'escape Spa takes relaxation up a notch with Thai-inspired treatments, while the beachfront infinity pool lets you soak up the views in style. And if you’re up for a bit of exploring, nearby islands and natural parks are just a boat ride away. At The Arundina, fresh seafood and Thai flavours take centre stage, served beachfront to make the most of Krabi’s stunning scenery. Meanwhile, Di Mare brings a taste of Italy with pastas and wood-fired pizzas.  Address: 123 Moo 3, Tumbol Nongtalay, Amphur Muang, Krabi 81180 Price: From B7,581 per night

Yes, Thailand is very much about beach getaways. While the south is always a prime contender, the west coast of the Andaman sea also has its charm, with quiet beaches and a laid-back vibe. Hua Hin is where you can kick back, breathe in the ocean air and just enjoy the moment. For a seaside escape with a fun, stylish twist, The Standard Hua Hin delivers in every way. Set on a private stretch of beach, this vibrant resort ditches the usual luxury-for-formality trade-off, offering a fresh take on beachfront relaxation. The rooms, villas and poolside retreats, bring a cool retro-meets-tropical vibe with bold colours, playful patterns and lush greenery. Stay in a garden villa for extra privacy or go for an ocean-view room to wake up to the sunrise and sea breeze. For food, Lido keeps things casual with Italian bites by the pool, while The Juice Cafe serves up fresh smoothies and light eats. Praça, the beachfront Thai izakaya, is where cocktails and shared plates set the mood for sundown sessions by the sea. With an infinity pool, private beach access and a lively social scene, The Standard Hua Hin blends easy going luxury with a playful energy. Lounge by the pool, sip cocktails on the sand or engage in the nearby night market  – this place is anything but standard.   Address: 59 Naresdamri Rd, Hua Hin, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110 Price: From B4,966 per night

If you're planning to join the iconic water fights on the streets of Bangkok this Songkran, you’re in for a blast. But there’s much more to the celebration than simply duelling with H2O. The Thai New Year is also a chance to experience the rich beauty of Thailand’s traditions. For those looking to embrace the cultural side of the occasion, the Bangkok Water Festival 2025 offers a grand celebration in which you can fully experience the vibrant spirit of Songkran. From April 13-15, this year’s festivities are held under the theme ‘River Culture...Thai Way’. The event spans 12 iconic piers along the Chao Phraya River, all connected by a complimentary shuttle boat service. So, take a scenic cruise to five historic royal temples – Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Kanlayanamit, Wat Prayurawongsawas and Wat Rakhang Kositaram – where you can take part in traditional Thai New Year blessings. Each sacred site hosts special ceremonies, including Buddha image bathing, merit-making and cultural performances, from 9am to 6pm. The fun doesn’t stop at the temples. Seven piers, including Asiatique The Riverfront, Tha Maharaj and Yodpiman River Walk host a variety of activities that put a fresh spin on the Songkran festivities. Expect food markets, live tunes, action-packed Thai boxing and even water tunnels. One of the highlights of the festival is the fourth annual Bangkok Water Procession, during which sacred Buddha images are carried along the river. This year the parade showcases Songkran tradition

2025 is already shaping up to be a big year for Thailand – Bangkok was ranked Time Out’s second-best city for food, Gaggan was named the best restaurant in Asia and Chef Tam Debhakam earned the title of Asia’s Best Female Chef. Now, Chef Pichaya ‘Pam’ Soontornyanakij is being crowned the World’s Best Female Chef 2025. Prior to the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 awards ceremony in Turin on June 19, several laureates have been revealed, the first being the World’s Best Female Chef 2025. The title voted on by a panel of 1,120 gastronomic experts from around the globe has sparked discussion among critics about whether culinary awards should be divided by gender. The World’s Best Female Chef was first presented in 2011 and over the years it has highlighted diverse culinary styles and the global influence of female chefs. However, in the 14 years since its inception, no Asian chef had won the title – until now!  Chef Pam is no stranger to recognition in the culinary world. Last year she was named Asia’s Best Female Chef, further solidifying her status as one of the industry’s brightest stars. Her journey began with a career shift from journalism to cooking and at just 21 she won a young chef award. She then moved to New York to study at the Culinary Institute of America, where she trained under the renowned Jean-Georges Vongerichten. After returning to Thailand, she became a judge on Top Chef Thailand. In 2021, Chef Pam opened Potong in her family’s 120-year-old Chinese herbal ph

After Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali made a high-speed stop in the Big Mango to meet with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the dream of bringing F1 to Thailand is now shifting into high gear. With the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) officially signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with F1, Bangkok is speeding toward the finish line and inching closer to hosting its own epic Grand Prix. Although details are still under wraps, SAT Governor Dr. Gongsak Yodmani shared that Chatuchak is the top pick for the race venue, pending final preparations. That said, other spots in the capital and provinces like Chon Buri are also on the table if Chatuchak doesn’t work out. No matter where the race lands, the impact on the community and environment is a top priority. SAT is focused on keeping noise and pollution in check while ensuring locals benefit from the event. Plans include compensation for affected areas and regular updates on road and park closures to keep everyone in the loop. For fans of this adrenaline-pumping sport, the MoU signing marks a significant step closer to making the dream of an F1 race in the kingdom a reality. Ongoing discussions will focus on technical studies, circuit design and timelines leading up to the 2028 race. Although the race is still a few years away, there’s already plenty to celebrate. Thai-British driver Alex Albon continues to represent Thailand on the global stage as part of the Williams team, bringing pride to the nation. With this

Thailand has never been short of superstars, with countless talents making waves on the international stage – from music and film to fashion and beyond. This time, all eyes are on New York’s iconic theatre scene, where Myra Molloy steps into the spotlight as the first Thai leading lady to make history in a Broadway production. Myra Molloy, also known as Myra Maniphatson, shot to fame in the kingdom back in 2011 when she won the first season of Thailand’s Got Talent at just 13 years old, impressing everyone with her mix of classical and Broadway tunes. From there, her journey took her to the international stage, where she made it to the top six on ABC’s Rising Star. Even with all her global success, Myra stays connected to her Thai roots and you can still hear her voice as Moana in Disney’s animated film. Myra’s theatrical talents shone brightly during the 2018-2019 US tour of the acclaimed sung-through musical Miss Saigon, where she captivated audiences as the alternate for the role of Kim. Congratulations to Myra Molloy on making history as the first Thai actress to lead in a Broadway musical! Myra is set to join the cast of the Tony Award-winning Hadestown, a reimagining of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The story follows the couple on a daring journey to the underworld, where Orpheus fights to save Eurydice. Taking over the role of Eurydice from Hailey Kilgore, who performs her final show on May 4, Myra will make her debut on May 6 at the iconic Walter Kerr Theatr

Thailand's music scene continues to thrive, drawing international festivals and top-tier artists to its vibrant stages year after year. One of the most anticipated events is the renowned Japanese music festival, Summer Sonic. Following its phenomenal success last year, the festival is set to return on August 23-24 at Impact Challenger Hall 1-3, promising an even bigger and better experience. This year’s lineup boasts an exciting roster of acclaimed Korean and Japanese artists, with Bangkok serving as Summer Sonic’s first stop outside of Japan. Just days ago, the initial wave of performers was unveiled, sparking buzz with a mix of global icons and regional stars. Topping the bill is none other than the legendary American hip-hop group, Black Eyed Peas. Known for their infectious party anthems, they’ll deliver a full one-hour set packed with hits like ‘My Humps’ and ‘Hey Mama’. Another headline act making waves is Cuban-American superstar Camila Cabello, who will perform in Bangkok for the very first time. Fans can expect her sultry vocals, Latin-inspired beats, and magnetic stage presence as she takes on chart-toppers like ‘Havana’ and ‘Señorita.’ Japanese music enthusiasts will be thrilled by the return of Babymetal, the kawaii metal trio who wowed audiences at last year’s festival. Back with an electrifying setlist, they’ll perform global hits such as ‘Gimme Chocolate!!’, ‘KARATE’, and ‘PA PA YA!!’, delivering a unique fusion of heavy metal and Japanese pop. Local talent wil

Bangkok may be full of energy and excitement, but finding love here isn’t always easy. The city offers plenty, from incredible restaurants and buzzing bars to lively art events – yet romance can still feel out of reach. And the statistics back this up. According to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), 40.5% of Thais of reproductive age (15-49) are single – and I’m one of them. Of course, dating apps offer a quick way to swipe and find a match, but for me, it’s not just about making a match – it’s about creating something real. A meaningful conversation, followed by a date, is where the spark happens. But there’s always the risk of being ghosted, which feels like such a waste of time. After several attempts to meet someone, I decided to try something different. Instead of relying on virtual encounters, I wanted to meet someone face-to-face who shared my goal – to find real love. That’s when I came across OMG Matchmaking, which hosts monthly speed dating events. In a city as big as this, where it’s easy to feel lost in the crowd, meeting potential matches in person seemed like a change of pace. So, I signed up. If you’re feeling disconnected in this concrete jungle, here’s the lowdown on what really happens at one of these events.  Setting the stage    Photograph: OMG Matchmaking   The speed dating event I attended took place at Chim Chim Bangkok. Before the event, I filled in my details and selected the group I wanted to mingle with when I purchased

Bangkok, often celebrated as the Big Mango or the City of Angels, carries another lesser-known nickname – the ‘Venice of the East.’ With its intricate network of canals (khlongs) and vibrant water transportation system, it’s easy to see the comparison to Italy’s famed floating city. Along the Chao Phraya River and its meandering waterways lies a treasure trove of sacred sites that reflect Thailand’s rich Buddhist heritage. To make these landmarks more accessible, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration offers free boat tours every weekend, inviting visitors to connect with the city’s spiritual roots. Running on Saturdays and Sundays, this free boat tour glides through the Bang Lamphu Canal in Phra Nakhon district, operating from 9am to 5pm. Participants can hop on or off at any of five designated stops along the route, including iconic landmarks like Phra Sumen Fort, Norarattana Sathan Bridge, the Shrine of King Taksin the Great, Ban Phan Thom Community Market and Mahakan Fort. Photograph: Phra Nakhon District Office Since this boat tour is centred around making merit, the route includes nine spiritual stops – three shrines and five royal temples. Three Shrines Chao Pho Nu Shrine Somdet Phra Chao Taksin Maharat Shrine Chao Pho Khao Tok Shrine Five Royal Temples Wat Sangwet Witsayaram Worawihan Wat Bowonniwet Vihara  Wat Parinayok Worawihan Wat Tri Thotsathep Worawihan Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan  Beyond these religious landmarks, the canal cruise also offers a chance

When the bill arrives, QR code payments are the norm for locals – even street vendors widely accept them. While contactless credit cards are also commonly used, foreign travellers often face challenges with QR payments, as they typically require a Thai bank account. To address this, the Thailand Tourism Authority and Kasikorn Bank have introduced TagThai Easy Pay, a tourist-friendly e-wallet that lets visitors pay using Thai QR codes at thousands of locations – no Thai bank account needed. Getting started is simple. All you need is a Pay & Tour prepaid card, which links to the e-wallet. Upon arriving in Thailand, you can pick up the card at Kasikorn Bank’s foreign exchange booths located at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. Just show your passport and exchange your currency – no hidden fees involved. If you miss collecting it at the airport, the card is also available at over 100 Kasikorn Bank locations across the country. Once you have the card, download the TagThai app on your iPhone or Android device. In the app, select the ‘Easy Pay’ option, then link your card by entering your passport number and reference number. Set a PIN, and you’re ready to go. Your e-wallet is accepted at countless locations nationwide, allowing you to shop, dine, and explore with ease. The app also offers practical features for security and convenience. You can check your transaction history, freeze or unfreeze your card if needed and withdraw cash (up to B10,000 per day) from Kasikorn Bank ATM

If you’ve ever wondered why Thailand draws so many tourists, one reason is the sense of freedom it offers. True to its name – ‘Thai’ meaning free – the country has taken steps toward legalising marijuana and recognising same-sex marriage in recent years. That said, some restrictions remain – particularly around alcohol. But change may be on the horizon as the government moves to loosen these rules. Currently, Thailand’s Alcohol Control Act, introduced in 2008, limits alcohol sales to two specific time windows: 11am to 2pm and 5 pm to midnight. Advertising is also heavily restricted, with bans on certain promotions and even personal social media posts showing alcohol, which can lead to legal trouble. These measures were put in place to discourage drinking during work hours for civil servants and to protect cultural values. Critics, however, argue the rules disproportionately impact small businesses and stifle economic growth. On March 19, the House of Representatives voted in favour of easing some restrictions on alcohol sales and advertising, aiming to support smaller breweries and boost tourism. The bill still requires Senate approval, but it marks a significant step in relaxing longstanding rules.  This move is part of a broader effort to revitalise tourism and the economy. The government is also exploring other alcohol-related reforms and even considering legalising casinos. Big shifts may be on the way for Thailand, potentially reshaping its reputation as a destination fo

The 2025 season for the world's top open-wheel racing series already spans 24 weekends across 21 countries. This adrenaline-pumping sport will race across continents, but only three stops are in Asia –  Singapore, China and Japan. While these countries have been key players for years, Thailand has been making its presence felt in the motorsport world. With MotoGP already calling the kingdom home, it's clear we're more than just spectators – we're part of the action. And now, there's talk of Bangkok joining the Formula 1 grid by 2028, which could put the country firmly on the global racing map. After kicking off the 2025 season in Melbourne, Australia and before heading to Shanghai for the next race, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali made a pit stop in the Big Mango. He met with Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to discuss the possibility of bringing F1 to Thailand.  During their conversation, it became clear that F1 is looking for a stable, government-backed Grand Prix venue in Asia, ideally secured for the long term. While some F1 fans dream of a street circuit like those in Singapore or Monaco, the discussion leaned towards a permanent track that offers a more sustainable solution. Let’s face it, the streets in the capital can be pretty bumpy and shutting down Bangkok’s roads for a week would be mayhem.  Instead, they’re eyeing the Mo Chit Bus Terminal near Chatuchak Park as a potential site, as the government plans to relocate the station. This location wou

Bangkok’s art scene is always full of surprises and this year it’s about to get even more exciting as the iconic Kaws: Holiday exhibition makes its way to the City of Angels. After its recent appearance at the Prambanan Temple complex in Indonesia, Kaws is teaming up with longtime collaborator AllRightsReserved, along with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Central Embassy to bring this large-scale sculpture to the heart of the city. Brought to life by American artist Brian Donnelly, better known as Kaws, the exhibition features a colossal 40-meter-long inflatable of his iconic character, COMPANION, lounging in a relaxed pose. Since its debut in 2018, the project has captivated audiences worldwide with appearances in cities such as Seoul, Singapore, Bristol, Melbourne and even outer space. For its Bangkok stop, the artwork will be on display from May 13-25, though the venue remains a mystery. Kaws' iconic characters are no strangers to Bangkok. Back in 2016, the city welcomed an eight-metre-tall BFF sculpture at Central Embassy, marking its debut in Thailand. The striking figure quickly became a crowd-puller, reflecting Bangkok's ongoing fascination with the artist's playful yet thought-provoking creations. Reflecting on the arrival of this renowned sculpture, Bangkok Governor Dr. Chadchart Sittipunt stated, ‘Mr. Brian Donnelly's visit to Thailand is a unique opportunity for both the art community and the Thai people. We believe art

Changes are afoot in Thailand with the Thai government’s approval of a draft law to legalise casinos within designated entertainment hubs. Four provinces have been selected as the initial locations for these anticipated complexes, marking a significant shift in Thailand’s stance on gambling. A draft law approved on March 13 paves the way for Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai and Phuket to host these complexes. It’s no surprise, given these areas are already magnets for tourists from around the world. But these venues aren’t just about casinos. The plans include a mix of attractions such as five-star hotels, world-class shopping malls, amusement parks, sports arenas, convention halls and exhibition centres – all designed to create bustling entertainment hubs. The debate around legalising casinos has been ongoing for years, with opinions split. Supporters see it as a boost for tourism and a way to keep more money circulating within the country, saving wealthy locals the trouble of flying to Cambodia or Macau to splurge at the tables.  Some locals say that legalising casinos could bring more transparency, reducing the influence of shady underground operations and keeping more money above board. On the flip side, others believe losing ten times to a fire isn’t as bad as losing once in gambling – a reflection of deep-seated fears about the risks. Critics worry that legalisation could lead to financial struggles, pushing some toward theft or money laundering. Concerns have also been ra