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There are plenty of reasons to be happy about having the chance to experience Thailand up close. After all, Thailand is a culture trove like few others on earth. To add to that, friendly and easygoing people and mouth-watering Thai cuisines make the Land of Smiles one of the top destinations for digital nomads. All that being said, you should not forget about securing sufficient health insurance before you hop on the plane. For one thing, sufficient health insurance coverage is a requirement under the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa program. And though the quality of Thailand’s public healthcare services is commendable, expats can only access it by paying for it. Language is another reason why public healthcare is not always the preferred choice for expats in Thailand. What all that means is that, oftentimes, private healthcare is the best option for expats in Thailand, including digital nomads. Depending on your plans and situation, you should secure either a long-stay visa insurance plan or an international health insurance plan for your stay in Thailand. Our friends at Pacific Prime Thailand have shared with us their insights, which we’ll share with you here. 1. Long-stay visa insurance This option is for you if you plan on making Thailand your home for a long time. Long-stay visa (LSV) plans will cover you while in Thailand. If you need to be out of Thailand for brief periods, you will need to secure travel insurance to cover potential medical and repatriation expenses while out of Thailand. The main benefit of LSV plans vis-à-vis international health insurance (IHI) plans is that they often cost less for a similar level of protection. The downside, of course, is that every time you go on a trip, you need to make sure the travel insurance you secure is sufficient for your brief time outside Thailand. In addition, the medical coverage of travel insurance plans are often not as comprehensive as what you get under an IHI plan, and the time limit of coverage means you cannot receive long-term treatment outside of Thailand, even if such treatment is beneficial from a medical standpoint. 2. International health insurance If Thailand is only one of the countries you want to explore in the coming years, or you are not sure about your plans at the moment, then you should definitely consider securing an IHI plan. Not only will you be covered wherever you may be (but bear in mind particular countries may be excluded under your plan), the fact that your health plan gives you worldwide coverage also implies that you will have a more comprehensive coverage and wider treatment options even during brief trips outside your country of residence. There is also no need to undergo the underwriting process again, provided your plan has a lifetime renewal guarantee and you keep renewing your coverage. All in all, IHI plans are the “once-and-for-all” option that are also more expensive. You will still need travel insurance for brief trips abroad though, because these plans also protect you against property loss in accidents, theft, lost luggage or passport, and the like. Needless to say, whichever type of health insurance you decide to go for, you should carefully understand the terms and conditions of the plans on your shortlist, including those related to pre-existing conditions, renewal guarantees, waiting periods, etc. Looking for a health insurance plan that meets your needs as a digital nomad? Whether you’ve decided on securing a long-stay visa insurance or an international health insurance plan, look no further because Pacific Prime Thailand is your ideal partner! With more than 20 years of experience, Pacific Prime is well-positioned to apply their expertise and experience in health insurance to provide unbiased advice that only a leading global brokerage can. So, get in touch with Pacific Prime Thailand to discuss your needs, or for a free plan comparison today!

On Wednesday, February 8th, H.E. Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, will be the keynote speaker on “The Environment and Thailand’s Tourism Business ” at the SKAL International Bangkok first Business Luncheon Talk of the year 2023. The event will take place from 11:30am-2:00pm at the Chartrium Residences Sathon, Narathivas 24. Mr. Silpa-archa will be discussing the importance of sustainable development and conservation efforts in Thailand in relations to Thailand’s Tourism. He will also be discussing the role of the private sector in these efforts and how they can work together to achieve a more sustainable future. “We are honored to have Mr. Silpa-archa speak at our first Business Luncheon event in the year 2023,” said James Thurlby, the President of SKAL International Bangkok. “His insights and expertise on sustainable development and conservation will be invaluable to our members and public.” The event will start with a networking cocktails reception at 11.30am, followed by a 3-course western set lunch including wine, beer and coffee. Price for members at 950 baht per person. Price for non-members at 1,590 baht per person. Public are most welcome to come along. For more information on the event or to RSVP, please email to [email protected] For membership application, please email to [email protected] Or visit website : www.skalbangkok.com About SKAL International Bangkok: SKAL International Bangkok is a global organization of travel and tourism professionals who come together to network, exchange ideas, promote the industry that benefits Thailand’s Tourism and public. The organization hosts monthly events featuring keynote speakers on a variety of topics related to travel and tourism at leading hotels in Bangkok allowing leaders and executives from various companies to see wonderful services of Bangkok’s hospitality. Skål International today has approximately 13,000 members in 318 Clubs throughout 96 nations headquartered at the General Secretariat in Torremolinos, Spain. For more information, please visit www.skal.org For Skal International Bangkok please visit: www.skalbangkok.com About the speaker: Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa graduated a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Collage London, United Kingdom and a Master of Business Administration majoring Finance from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, United States of America. He is leader of Chartthaipattana Party. Mr. Varawut dreams to work for the nation and continue the aspirations of his late father, Banharn Silpa-archa, the 21st Prime Minister of Thailand. Since 10 July 2019, he serves as Minister of Natural Resources and Environment in the second cabinet of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha. Mr. Varawut works to improve environmental work in Thailand. His main goal is to free Thailand of plastic waste, which will bring Thailand into a new stage in environmental protection. He also was Deputy Minister of Transportation in 2008. He is now 49 years old.

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TAT provides attendees with the latest information on Thailand’s new tourism direction, marketing, product and service offerings, and much more. Phuket, 9 June, 2022 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) gave an update on Thailand’s tourism situation, its relaxed entry requirements, its visitor arrivals targets, its new marketing direction, and more, to delegates at the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2022 which is taking place this week, from 8-10 June, in Phuket. Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing and Communications, said, “Thailand is open and ready to welcome tourists from around the world. Despite the long break the pandemic brought us, we have continued working and over these two years there have been many changes and adjustments in the tourism industry globally and in Thailand. So, we have come up with new directions and marketing communication concepts that are curated to cater to the current trends and make the most memorable visits for our tourists.” All the initiatives including the Special Tourist Visa (STV), Happy Quarantine, the Phuket Sandbox, and the Test & Go quarantine-free entry scheme in November 2021 paving the way to fully reopen and give a total visitor arrival count of 427,869 for the year 2021. For 2022, Thailand has set a target of 7-10 million international tourists and 160 million trips from the domestic market with tourism revenue generation of 1.5 trillion Baht. In the first five months of the year, international arrivals numbered 1.23 million. With the lifting of the Test & Go entry scheme from 1 May, 2022, and a further easing of entry requirements into Thailand effective from 1 June, 2022, TAT is expecting 500,000 international arrivals to the kingdom each month from June to September. During the high season of October to December, that number is forecast to jump to 1 million international arrivals each month. For 2023, the target tourism revenue is 2.4 trillion Baht and 3 trillion Baht in 2024. Determined to reboot Thailand’s vital tourism industry, the Royal Thai Government announced the “Visit Thailand Year 2022-2023” campaign in which travellers the world over are being invited to experience the “Amazing New Chapters” of Thailand. The campaign highlights the abundance of tourism products and services on offer in Thailand, as well as its cultural diversity and richness – all of which are able to fulfil the desires of travellers from A to Z, as Thailand has it all. Spearheading the “Visit Thailand Year 2022-2023” campaign, TAT is focusing on using “storytelling” marketing in order to enrich visitors’ tourism experience and self-value. NFT – or Nature to keep, Food to explore, and Thainess to discover – are the main highlighted products in the “Amazing New Chapters” communication efforts, while the feeling of Experience, Fun, and Love are what travellers will gain during their journeys in Thailand. A New TVC has been launched to present Thailand in a cinematic perspective. The importance of sustainable and responsible tourism is at the forefront of Thailand’s tourism promotion and marketing. Mr. Siripakorn said at the Thailand Product Update: “The pandemic gave us key learning lessons. What Thailand’s tourism industry needs to stay competitive and resilient in the long run is sustainability, in order to balance the economic, social, and environmental elements.” As such, the Thai government’s Bio-Circular-Green or BCG Economy Model is being used to revive the tourism industry with the aim of safe, inclusive and sustainable travel. Conforming to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the BCG model is taking Thai tourism in a new direction, one that is in response to the changing global trends. TAT meanwhile is making Thailand one of the world’s top remote workers-friendly destinations, in response to the growing trend in light of the COVID-19 pandemic of people working remotely while on vacation. With a long-stay visa a priority issue for digital nomads, Thailand is in the process of launching the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa for four groups – wealthy foreigners, retirees, working foreigners, and specialists. There will be a one-time fee for an LTR visa of 50,000 Baht with a validity of 10 years. Health and wellness is one of the key areas to focus. There is a broad spectrum of programmes to offer from fitness, anti-aging, holistic to traditional treatments by professional specialists with world-class facilities and global standard accreditation present wellness resorts in several destinations; such as, Samut Prakan, Phuket, and Samui. Thailand is also continuing with its role as a top global destination for international events of various nature and size. As the APEC 2022 host, it is the venue for numerous APEC events throughout 2022, including the Eleventh APEC Tourism Ministerial Meeting and Sixtieth APEC Tourism Working Group Meeting in Bangkok from 14-20 August – the first time it will host an APEC Tourism Ministerial Meeting. Thailand will also push forward the APEC Policy Recommendations on Regenerative Tourism. The MotoGP motorcycle race is set to return this 30 September-2 October at the Buriram International Circuit while Laguna Phuket Triathlon, Southeast Asia’s longest running and most successful triathlon event, will be held on 20 November, 2022. From 15-18 November, 2022, TAT will host the TBEX Asia 2022 event for worldwide travel bloggers, content creators, and influencers in Phuket under the theme of “Diversity of the South: Phuket and Beyond”. Mr. Siripakorn concluded, “Thailand is on the stage of fully reopening, and we are ready to welcome everyone around the world back to the kingdom once again. With the Visit Thailand Year 2022-2023, we would like to open our home country to present some of the kingdom’s many fascinating tourism experiences and hope all travellers will not miss out.” -- © Copyright TAT NEWS 2022-06-09 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Easiest way to own or rent a car in Thailand - click here to find out more!

The inaugural Surf 102.5 FM Cup took place at Monkey & Field on June 5th. Five teams faced off in this 7 a side tournament with Black Mountain emerging as the winners. Both Black Mountain and Vanon Kanong won their first three matches, beating Nong Hoi, Hua Hin City A and Hua Hin City B. They faced off in the final game which was a winner takes all decider. Black Mountain made a strong start and were putting the pressure on the Vanon Kanon defenders. The breakthrough came when the team in white were awarded a free kick close to the right hand touchline. Phakin Calermkas, 9, is a master at dead ball situations and looked extremely confident. Sure enough he curled a left footed effort into the top right hand corned to give Black Mountain a 1-0 lead. Vanon Kanong started to press hard for an equalizer but were denied by some fine goalkeeping from Lev Duisterwinkel, 10. The atmosphere was tense as the game moved into injury time with Black Mountain desperately hanging on to a slender lead. But the contest was settled with the final kick of the game. Archie Wills, 10, burst through from centre midfield and had the composure to pick out Patrick Goyder, 8, who fired in from close range with the ball cannoning off the crossbar and into the back of the net. It was an impressive showing from Black Mountain who won all three matches without conceding a single goal. Vanon Kanong had to settle for the runners up trophy while Hua Hin City A finished in third place. Richard Buckle, from Surf 102.5 FM, said, “It was a very enjoyable morning and we are proud to support this event. The match between Black Mountain and Vanon Kanong was really dramatic and we are proud to support this event and to see so many children getting the chance to play competitive football.”

Residents who consider the destination are significantly more likely to say that travel advertising on social media, travel websites and free-to-view TV channels grabs their attention Japan is reopening its borders to travellers from 98 countries and regions next month, after being closed to foreign tourists since 2020. Latest data from YouGov DestinationIndex shows that Japan is by far the top overseas travel destination on the minds of consumers in Thailand: over half say they would consider visiting Japan for their next vacation (49%). Meanwhile, almost three in five are considering a domestic holiday trip within Thailand (59%), and one in three are thinking of visiting South Korea (33%). More than half of consumers aged 25-54 are considering Japan for their next vacation, especially those aged 45-54 (56%). In comparison, just under half of the youngest consumers aged 16-24 (49%) and the oldest consumers aged 55 and older (48%) would consider travelling to Japan for their next holiday. Where then are travel advertisements most effective in targeting Thais considering Japan for their next trip? Latest data from YouGov Global Travel Profiles also reveals that Thais who are considering visiting Japan are significantly more likely than the average Thai consumer to say that travel advertising on social media, travel websites and free-to-view TV channels grabs their attention. Methodology: YouGov DestinationIndex collects data on hundreds of destinations around the world every day. All data are collected over a 52-week period and rounded to the nearest whole number. Learn more about YouGov DestinationIndex. YouGov Global Travel Profiles tracks consumer demand and attitudes worldwide towards travel across 25 markets, which is collected daily and updated bi-weekly. It offers a holistic view of the global travel market, including granular insights on brand consideration, preferred locations, booking methods, accommodation and transportation preferences. Learn more about YouGov Global Travel Profiles.

Skal International Bangkok is delighted to present an exceptional guest speaker for the upcoming Business Luncheon Talk on Tuesday 14th June 2022: Korn Chatikavanij, former Minister of Finance. Venue and Time: 11:30 am 14th June 2022 at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit Hotel Speaker: Korn Chatikavanij, politician, best selling author, and former investment banker TOPIC: Thailand's Economy Direction for Thailand Tourism in 2022-2023 Join for the very latest insights and an expert perspective of what to expect of Thailand’s important tourism sector. Enjoy a 4-course western set lunch with wine, beer and coffee. For Skal members Baht 950 Non-members are most welcome at Baht 1,650 For young Skal only Baht 500 per person. (Aged 20-30 years old) For reservations : [email protected] The luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit will be a popular gathering and advance reservations are strongly advised. Speaker Bio: From 2008 to 2011, Korn Chatikavanij was finance minister under democrat Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. In January 2020 he left the democrat party to form his own Kla party. As party leader Korn Chatikavanij, is considered to be a future potential prime minister with the younger entrepreneurial generation. Born in London and educated at St John’s College Oxford this 58 year old Thai politician has a unique understanding of macro economics and is no stranger to public speaking and is widely regarded, articulate and knowledgeable Skål International today has approximately 13,000 members in 318 Clubs throughout 96 nations headquartered at the General Secretariat in Torremolinos, Spain. For more information, please visit www.skal.org For Skal International Bangkok please visit: www.skalbangkok.com About Skal International: Skål International is a professional organisation of tourism leaders around the world. Founded in 1934, Skål International is an advocate of global tourism and peace and is a not for profit association. Skål does not discriminate on the basis of sex, age, race, religion or politics. Skål is focused on doing business and business networking in the company of fellow professionals in an atmosphere of friendship. The Skål toast promotes Happiness, Good Health, Friendship, and Long Life. It is the only international group uniting all branches of the travel and tourism industry. https://skalbangkok.com/events/ For Skal membership enquiries, please email: [email protected]

BANGKOK: With travel between India and Thailand opening up and quarantine no longer required for fully vaccinated travellers, Skal Asia President Andrew J Wood (third right) along with Past Asia President Jason Samuel (third left) were both warmly welcomed to the first face to face meeting of the Bangkok club since March this year. Jason who had flown in from Mumbai to join the meeting took the opportunity to present the hand delivered chain on behalf of the Asian Area to President Andrew who was elected in September 2021. The covid-delayed chain presentation took place recently at the May networking cocktail event, organised by Skal International Bangkok at The Peninsula Hotel. Also seen in the photograph from the Bangkok club, are Pichai Visutriratana Events Director (far left), James Thurlby President (second left), Michael Bamberg Secretary (second right) and John Neutze Treasurer (far right). Skål International is a professional organisation of tourism leaders around the world. Founded in 1934, Skål International is an advocate of global tourism and peace and is a not for profit association. Skål does not discriminate on the basis of sex, age, race, religion or politics. Skål is focused on doing business and business networking in the company of fellow professionals in an atmosphere of friendship. The first Club was founded in 1932 in Paris by travel managers, following an educational tour of Scandinavia, with a growing number of clubs, the Association was then formed two years later. The Skål toast promotes Happiness, Good Health, Friendship, and Long Life. It is the only international group uniting all branches of the travel and tourism industry. Skål International today has approximately 13,000 members in 317 Clubs throughout 103 nations headquartered at the General Secretariat in Torremolinos, Spain. For more information, please visit www.skal.org For Bangkok please visit: www.skalbangkok.com For Skal membership enquiries, please email: [email protected]

Tropical weather, exotic locations, amazing delicacies, friendly locals, quality healthcare, and value-for-money living costs makes Thailand a popular retirement destination. Here, your pension or retirement savings could go a long way, and you can definitely live it up in style. Housekeeper? Check. Driver? Check. Private healthcare? Check. If you’re convinced of this Southeast Asian gem, our friends at Pacific Prime Thailand will give a brief overview of the top 5 retirement destinations in the country. 1. Pattaya Pattaya is around 150 km or a 2-hour drive away from the capital, Bangkok. With good road links, this means that you can head over to the Big Mango whenever you feel like it - taking advantage of everything the big city life has to offer. At the same time, you can also get all the advantages of living in a smaller, more affordable beach town. While Pattaya has a notorious reputation for its bar scene and nightlife, do you know that there’s so much more to the city than that? From its close proximity to the breathtaking Koh Larn to its street vendors, shopping malls, and golf course, you won’t be short of things to see and do in Pattaya. 2. Chiang Mai Thailand’s northern region is known as the ‘Lanna’ region, rich in culture and heritage, as well as nature-filled activities. With its mountainous areas and its cooler temperatures (when compared to the rest of the country), Chiang Mai - the north’s largest city - makes for a pleasant city to live in. The best part? You’ll find the cost of living to be much cheaper, especially when comparing it to living in Bangkok or the islands in the south of the country. A word of warning: Be mindful of the poor air quality during the “smoky season” and invest in a good N95 mask to protect yourself. Read more: The differences between N95 and surgical masks 3. Phuket If you’re looking for a tropical paradise - large enough to have its own international airport, then Phuket will definitely be high up on your list. Located in the south of Thailand, and connected to the mainland by a bridge, you’ll find magnificent beaches and crystalline depths in Phuket - perfect for swimming and sunbathing, amongst malls, restaurants, bars, and night markets. Although transportation within the island may be a bit of a problem, you can always get a rentable scooter or taxi to make your way around. The only real downside is that the cost of living in Phuket can be quite high. 4. Hua Hin Hua Hin’s laid back vibes make it the perfect weekend getaway for busy Bangkokians. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this sleepy beachtown is also home to a large Scandinavian crowd. In particular, expat retirees flock to Hua Hin to take advantage of its stunning coastal views, privacy and seclusion, as well as plenty of retail and dining options. Don’t be surprised if you see entire gated communities boasting affordable pool villas that are dedicated to expat retirees from Sweden, Norway, and more! Miss the big City? Not a problem. Bangkok is only a 3-hour drive away! 5. Koh Samui Another pricey island to feature on this list, Koh Samui takes the fifth spot. This exclusive island is home to a breathtaking airport, with only Bangkok Airways allowed to touch down. That being said, there are long-winded ways to get to the island by getting a ferry across from Surat Thani. Beyond price and accessibility, Koh Samui is known to attract less tourists than Phuket, whilst still providing some amazing views. There’s no shortage of modern condos and facilities, including those that offer luxury living. Fancy a bite? You’ll also discover some great places to dine here. Retiring in Thailand? Pacific Prime can help you secure health insurance for retirees in Thailand, long stay visa insurance for Thailand expats, and help you with all things insurance. Contact one of their friendly, knowledgeable, and impartial advisors today!

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Although water splashing is prohibited, majority still expect to participate in smaller scale, traditional festivities, while taking precautions to guard against Covid-19 For the third year in a row, restrictions are being placed on Songkran celebrations in Thailand, pre-empting another muted festive season. Latest research from YouGov RealTime Omnibus shows that only a quarter of online Thais do not intend to participate in the celebrations this year (27%), with the remaining three-quarters set to enjoy a myriad of festivities. Out of those who will be celebrating the season, six in ten intend to carry out the practice of pouring water on the hands of their elders to seek their blessings (59%) or visit a temple (58%), making these the two most popular activities over the season. Those aged 18-24 are most likely to seek their elders’ blessings (65%), while 35-44-year-olds are most likely to visit the temple (66%). The third most popular activity among online Thais is enjoying other leisure activities, like visiting cafes or tourist attractions, with four in ten saying they will do so (40%). As the smaller-scale celebrations look set to continue, majority still say they will adopt habits to protect themselves from Covid-19. Three-quarters of celebrants say they will wear a mask in public areas, despite there no longer being laws mandating it. Seven in ten also say they will take care of their personal hygiene by washing their hands often or using hand sanitiser (71%) or avoid crowded public areas (69%). Those above the age of 45 are significantly more likely to adopt any of these three top habits. Majority of those looking to celebrate Songkran still express some level of worry about Covid-19, with only one in eight saying they are not worried (13%) and one in twenty saying they are not worried at all (6%). Notably, men are significantly more likely to say they are not worried at all (7%), while women are more likely to express opposite sentiment, with one in five saying they are very worried (21%). Methodology: YouGov RealTime Omnibus provides quick survey results from nationally representative or targeted audiences in multiple markets. This study was conducted online from 3 to 7 March 2022, with a nationally representative sample of 2,064 adults in Thailand (aged 18+ years), using a questionnaire designed by YouGov. Data figures have been weighted by gender, age, region and monthly household income to be representative of the adult Thai online population (18 years or older), and reflect the latest National Statistical Office of Thailand (NSO) population estimates. Learn more about YouGov RealTime Omnibus.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health of individuals around the world, and Thailand is no exception. In fact, the director-general at Thailand’s Department of Mental Health told the Bangkok Post that the country’s suicide rate is 5.9 times higher than pre-COVID-19 days. The department’s data also revealed that people are more likely to develop depression (4.8 times) and stress (2.1 times) than prior to the pandemic. The Omicron variant’s slow spread is yet another factor that is currently impacting the mental health of the nation. On top of that, excessive news consumption and living in Bangkok (particularly as a woman) can make matters worse. This article from our friends at Pacific Prime Thailand discusses where you can find mental health help in Thailand. Seeking help for mental health as an expat As an expat, taking care of your mental health isn’t always easy. Language barriers, being away from your support group, and cultural differences can cause you to feel stressed, overwhelmed, and isolated. Loneliness, long-term stress, or substance abuse/misuse are just some of the most common factors that influence mental health. It’s important to seek help when you need it. While your friends and family may be able to offer some comfort, talking to a professional is advisable. Psychiatric health checkups are just as vital as physical health checkups. Fortunately, there are plenty of mental health services available in Thailand for expats. Samaritans Thailand If you experience feelings of sadness, loneliness, or have suicidal thoughts, contact The Samaritans of Thailand’s English hotline at 02 113 6789 and press 2. While the free service puts you in touch with staff who are trained in suicide prevention, callers don’t have to be suicidal to get help through the hotline. It often helps to simply talk to someone when you’re feeling low, especially to a person who is trained to listen as you share your issues and concerns. Once you leave a message at the call center, a staff member will contact you back within 24 hours. The service is also anonymous, so you don’t have to provide your real name if you don’t want to. Private hospitals Those dealing with a life-threatening mental health crisis should head straight to the ER of an international hospital. Ask to see the psychiatrist on duty upon arrival. In Bangkok, two of the leading hospitals for mental health services are Bangkok Hospital and Manarom Hospital. Bangkok Hospital Mental Health Rehabilitation and Recovery Center Bangkok Hospital offers mental health services and facilities, including counseling, inpatient care, outpatient services, and day programs. The hospital’s Chitrak Center focuses on mental health treatment, diagnosis, and rehabilitation. Manarom Hospital As one of Thailand’s leading private hospitals specializing in mental and behavioral healthcare, Manarom Hospital offers a range of mental health services like day programs and adult psychiatry. The staff are trained in a wide variety of mental health conditions, from substance abuse and behavioral problems to PTSD and family issues. Counseling and mental health services As one of the most popular expat destinations in Thailand, Bangkok is home to some of the leading mental health providers and counseling centers in the country. While the following are Bangkok-based services, there are also online options for expats living in other areas of Thailand. What’s more, facilities closer to home are available for expats throughout the country, so be sure to research your options. Psychological Services International (PSI) Since 2001, PSI has been providing therapy, counseling, and assessment services to expats in Bangkok. PSI’s counselors are trained as psychologists, psychotherapists, and social workers, so they can also be helpful if you’re in need of medication. The staff speak English, Thai, and French and also serve clients outside of Bangkok through online services. New Counseling Service (NCS) The only fully licensed counseling center in the nation’s capital city, NCS offers counseling, mental health services, and training to both expats and locals. In operation for more than 20 years, NCS provides support for mental health issues from anxiety and depression to grief counseling and crisis intervention. Along with Thai and English, staff also speak Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, and Dutch. What to do if you have a mental health emergency The first thing you should do when you want help with a mental health issue is to contact the Samaritans. Note that this is a callback service, so you might have to wait up to 24 hours to hear back from them. In the meantime, you can contact a counselor by emailing a provider of your choice (such as PSI or NCS) and letting them know that you’re seeking help. If you’re in a life-threatening situation, it’s best to head straight to the psychiatrist on duty at an international hospital. Bangkok and Manarom Hospitals have psychiatrist units that you can visit directly, but any psychiatrist will be able to help you in the event of an emergency. Hospitals will ask for insurance details or payment, but don’t let that deter you from putting your mental health first. Looking for individual health insurance plans or other types of health insurance? Pacific Prime’s highly-trained advisors can help you find the best health insurance plan for Thailand expats for your needs and budget. Contact Pacific Prime Thailand for impartial insurance advice and a tailored plan comparison today!

Pattaya, Thailand – The Royal Cliff Hotels Group has achieved another amazing milestone by recently being the only hotel in Thailand to be awarded “The Best of SHA Awards 2021” for Hotel Accommodation. This further cements its place as a destination that has excellent safety and hygiene measures in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Royal Cliff’s 5–star Cliff Spa, has also received “The Best of SHA - The Excellence Award” for the Health and Beauty category. The Best of SHA Awards 2021 is given to the best establishments that have received the most vote from a satisfaction questionnaire of tourists all over Thailand. The satisfaction questionnaire covers the safety and health standards (SHA Standard) and the White Tourism standards (convenient, clean, safe, fair, and nature-friendly). The awards ceremony was organized by TAT in acknowledgment of tourism businesses prioritizing compliance with Amazing Thailand SHA measures and was presided over by Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, the TAT Governor. “The Best of SHA Awards 2021 was launched in June, last year, to search for the best SHA-certified businesses in the 10 categories the certification covers, and celebrate their excellence,” Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, the TAT Governor, said. “The initiative is to encourage business operators to continuously adhere to the SHA standard and maintain consistency in their safety and hygiene approaches.” The winners of “The Best of SHA Awards 2021” are chosen from establishments that received an average voting score of 90-100% from tourists. As the sole winner of the hotel accommodation and homestay category, Royal Cliff’s safety measures ensure guests that they will always have an extraordinary and safe stay in all its different hotels. The Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) project is a collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Ministry of Public Health, the Department of Disease Control, the Department of Health as well as public and private sector partners. Being awarded the SHA certificate and the SHA Extra Plus (SHA++) means that Royal Cliff along with the Cliff Spa and all its MICE Meeting venues had undergone a strict inspection and passed the SHA’s good standards of hygiene, health and cleanliness in accordance with the nationwide measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and have partnered with medical facilities for COVID-19-related testing and medical treatment. Situated on a 64-acre private parkland estate overlooking the stunning Gulf of Thailand, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group operates four award-winning hotels providing guests from home and abroad with the ultimate experience. Book your stay directly and get the best price guaranteed along with value-added optional extras that will enhance your hotel experience by visiting www.royalcliff.com, contacting Reservations at (+66) 38 250 421 ext. 2732 or emailing: [email protected]. For more information on the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, please visit www.royalcliff.com

Pattaya, Thailand – The Royal Cliff Hotels Group has achieved another amazing milestone by recently being the only hotel in Thailand to be awarded “The Best of SHA Awards 2021” for Hotel Accommodation. This further cements its place as a destination that has excellent safety and hygiene measures in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Royal Cliff’s 5–star Cliff Spa, has also received “The Best of SHA - The Excellence Award” for the Health and Beauty category. The Best of SHA Awards 2021 is given to the best establishments that have received the most vote from a satisfaction questionnaire of tourists all over Thailand. The satisfaction questionnaire covers the safety and health standards (SHA Standard) and the White Tourism standards (convenient, clean, safe, fair, and nature-friendly). The awards ceremony was organized by TAT in acknowledgment of tourism businesses prioritizing compliance with Amazing Thailand SHA measures and was presided over by Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, the TAT Governor. “The Best of SHA Awards 2021 was launched in June, last year, to search for the best SHA-certified businesses in the 10 categories the certification covers, and celebrate their excellence,” Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, the TAT Governor, said. “The initiative is to encourage business operators to continuously adhere to the SHA standard and maintain consistency in their safety and hygiene approaches.” The winners of “The Best of SHA Awards 2021” are chosen from establishments that received an average voting score of 90-100% from tourists. As the sole winner of the hotel accommodation and homestay category, Royal Cliff’s safety measures ensure guests that they will always have an extraordinary and safe stay in all its different hotels. The Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) project is a collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Ministry of Public Health, the Department of Disease Control, the Department of Health as well as public and private sector partners. Being awarded the SHA certificate and the SHA Extra Plus (SHA++) means that Royal Cliff along with the Cliff Spa and all its MICE Meeting venues had undergone a strict inspection and passed the SHA’s good standards of hygiene, health and cleanliness in accordance with the nationwide measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and have partnered with medical facilities for COVID-19-related testing and medical treatment. Situated on a 64-acre private parkland estate overlooking the stunning Gulf of Thailand, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group operates four award-winning hotels providing guests from home and abroad with the ultimate experience. Book your stay directly and get the best price guaranteed along with value-added optional extras that will enhance your hotel experience by visiting www.royalcliff.com, contacting Reservations at (+66) 38 250 421 ext. 2732 or emailing: [email protected]. For more information on the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, please visit www.royalcliff.com

Pattaya, Thailand – The Royal Cliff Hotels Group has achieved another amazing milestone by recently being the only hotel in Thailand to be awarded “The Best of SHA Awards 2021” for Hotel Accommodation. This further cements its place as a destination that has excellent safety and hygiene measures in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Royal Cliff’s 5–star Cliff Spa, has also received “The Best of SHA - The Excellence Award” for the Health and Beauty category. The Best of SHA Awards 2021 is given to the best establishments that have received the most vote from a satisfaction questionnaire of tourists all over Thailand. The satisfaction questionnaire covers the safety and health standards (SHA Standard) and the White Tourism standards (convenient, clean, safe, fair, and nature-friendly). The awards ceremony was organized by TAT in acknowledgment of tourism businesses prioritizing compliance with Amazing Thailand SHA measures and was presided over by Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, the TAT Governor. “The Best of SHA Awards 2021 was launched in June, last year, to search for the best SHA-certified businesses in the 10 categories the certification covers, and celebrate their excellence,” Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, the TAT Governor, said. “The initiative is to encourage business operators to continuously adhere to the SHA standard and maintain consistency in their safety and hygiene approaches.” The winners of “The Best of SHA Awards 2021” are chosen from establishments that received an average voting score of 90-100% from tourists. As the sole winner of the hotel accommodation and homestay category, Royal Cliff’s safety measures ensure guests that they will always have an extraordinary and safe stay in all its different hotels. The Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) project is a collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Ministry of Public Health, the Department of Disease Control, the Department of Health as well as public and private sector partners. Being awarded the SHA certificate and the SHA Extra Plus (SHA++) means that Royal Cliff along with the Cliff Spa and all its MICE Meeting venues had undergone a strict inspection and passed the SHA’s good standards of hygiene, health and cleanliness in accordance with the nationwide measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and have partnered with medical facilities for COVID-19-related testing and medical treatment. Situated on a 64-acre private parkland estate overlooking the stunning Gulf of Thailand, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group operates four award-winning hotels providing guests from home and abroad with the ultimate experience. Book your stay directly and get the best price guaranteed along with value-added optional extras that will enhance your hotel experience by visiting www.royalcliff.com, contacting Reservations at (+66) 38 250 421 ext. 2732 or emailing: [email protected]. For more information on the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, please visit www.royalcliff.com