Amazing Thailand - South Africa

10/09/2026

Mountain scenery, colourful temples and a rich mix of cultures make Chiang Rai one of northern Thailand’s most rewarding provinces to explore. From the banks of the Mekong to quiet rural communities and forested hills, there’s much more to discover beyond the city itself.
➡ https://fanclubthailand.co.za/highlights-of-chiang-rai/

07/09/2026

🏝️ Give us a thumbs-up if you’d like to spend a few hours chilling out here! 🤩

📸 Ko Ngam (near Ko Chang), Trat Province

03/09/2026

ℹ Starting September 15th 2026, the visa exemption period will change:

🇿🇦 South African passport holders
🗓 Staying in Thailand as a tourist for less than 30 days (reduced from 60 days)
➡ No visa required

🛂🇹🇭 Thailand will introduce updated visa exemption rules from 15 September 2026.

The 60-day visa exemption measure will end, with travellers subject to 30-day visa exemption, 15-day visa exemption, Visa on Arrival, or other entry arrangements depending on nationality.

Visitors are advised to check the latest entry conditions before travelling.

👉 PRESS RELEASE: https://www.tatnews.org/2026/09/thailand-introduces-new-30-day-and-15-day-visa-exemption-rules-from-15-september/

01/09/2026

🇹🇭 The Royal Thai Embassy in Pretoria wishes to announce the new date for the next "Taste of Thai" - Saturday 19 September 2026. Join us for an authentic Thai street food market experience with more than 15 Thai food vendors from all over Gauteng. Don't miss it!

✨️ Date: Saturday 19 September 2026
✨️ Time: 08.00-14.00 hrs
✨️ Location: Hazel Food Market, Lynnwood, Pretoria
https://maps.app.goo.gl/p4e9BHqyVhHhwvDJ9?g_st=ac

We look forward to seeing you on the day! 🇹🇭

**Please note there will be NO Taste of Thai event on this upcoming Saturday (5 September), due to unfavourable weather forecast.

29/08/2026

Looking for ideas beyond Phuket? 🇹🇭

Phuket is a great base for exploring more of southern Thailand. Cruise through the limestone scenery of Phang Nga Bay, snorkel around the Phi Phi Islands, slow things down on Ko Yao Noi, explore colourful Phuket Old Town or head inland to the spectacular landscapes of Khao Sok.

We’ve rounded up some of the best day trips from Phuket, with ideas for island adventures, nature, culture and local experiences. Which one would you choose? ⬇

26/08/2026

🌿 Planning a trip inland from Hua Hin or Cha Am? Kaeng Krachan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to wild elephants, leopards, gibbons, and over 400 bird species. We've put together a full guide covering what to see, where to stay, entrance fees, and how to get there from Hua Hin, Cha-am, or Bangkok.

Check it out at the link in the comments below 🐘 🇹🇭
https://fanclubthailand.co.za/a-guide-to-kaeng-krachan-national-park/

23/08/2026

Have you ever seen the Loy Krathong Festival in Thailand? 🪷🇹🇭

Celebrated under the full moon in November, Loy Krathong sees people across Thailand gather beside rivers, lakes and canals to float decorated krathongs on the water.

Traditionally made from banana tree and banana leaves, krathongs are decorated with flowers, candles and incense. Before setting them afloat, people make a wish or say a prayer. Floating a krathong symbolises letting go of negativity and bad luck while paying respect to the water goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha.

With candlelight, colourful celebrations and a myriad of krathongs floating on the water, it’s one of the most memorable festivals to experience in Thailand. 🇹🇭 🙏

20/08/2026

Whether you are interested in history or not, a visit to Sukhothai Historical Park is a memorable experience. Situated approximately midway between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, a visit to Sukhothai is a journey through Thailand’s past.

The peaceful rural landscape is scattered with atmospheric ruins and historic monuments, making it a rewarding destination for travellers with an interest in culture and history. 🙏💙🇹🇭

Have you been to Sukhothai?

17/08/2026

🇹🇭 Royal Barge Procession, Bangkok 2026

One of Thailand’s most spectacular ceremonial traditions returns to Bangkok this year, with the Royal Barge Procession taking place on the Chao Phraya River.

The magnificent procession features 52 ceremonial barges and around 2,200 personnel, travelling along the river as part of the Royal Kathin Ceremony at Wat Arun.

The main procession takes place on 6 November 2026, with a series of rehearsals scheduled in the months leading up to it. If you are in Bangkok between now and early November, there are several opportunities to witness this extraordinary spectacle.

📍 Chao Phraya River, Bangkok
📅 Main procession: 6 November 2026

Find the full schedule of rehearsal dates, procession details and information on where to watch here:
https://fanclubthailand.co.za/royal-barge-procession-in-bangkok-a-spectacular-thai-tradition/

12/08/2026

💙 Mother’s Day in Thailand 🇹🇭

Thailand celebrates Mother’s Day every year on 12 August, the birthday of the late Queen Sirikit, who was born on this day in 1932. Although Queen Sirikit passed away in October 2025 at the age of 93, her birthday continues to be observed as Mother’s Day and remains an important date on the Thai calendar.

One of the most recognisable traditions of Thai Mother’s Day is the giving of jasmine flowers (dok mali). The delicate white flowers symbolise purity, unconditional love and maternal devotion.

Across Thailand, children traditionally give their mothers jasmine garlands or bouquets as a heartfelt gesture of love, gratitude and respect.

สุขสันต์วันแม่ — Happy Mother’s Day! 💙