Sawadee krap and welcome back to the All About Thailand Podcast! I'm your host, Mike, and as we hit mid-November, I know what you're thinking. After all the news, after all the water that's passed through the kingdom... is anyone still feeling that festive cheer?

​The answer, my friends, is a resounding yes!

​It's been a tough few months. We've seen significant flooding, especially in parts of the central and northern regions, and it's affected so many lives. Our thoughts are with everyone who's been impacted. But what never ceases to amaze me about this incredible country is its resilience, its spirit of sanuk – that love of fun – and the incredible speed with which the Christmas buzz is now truly starting to build.

​From the glowing super-malls of Bangkok that look like a million-baht winter wonderland, to the beach clubs in Phuket planning their sun-drenched, sandy-toed Christmas parties. Up north in misty Chiang Mai, where the cooler air makes those festive lights feel truly magical, and even down in Pattaya, where the decorations are popping up alongside the seaside excitement.

​So, join us today as we dive into the incredible positivity, the dazzling sights, and the unique, distinctly Thai-twist on the most wonderful time of the year. We're talking about Christmas in Thailand, floods be darned. You're listening to All About Thailand!

🇹🇭 Welcome to All About Thailand! 🙏

​Ready to go beyond the tourist brochure? We're diving deep into the Land of Smiles—a country of incredible beauty, ancient culture, and unforgettable experiences.

​🔔 A Special Note for Travelers:

​As Thailand is currently observing a period of deep national mourning following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, the country has a more solemn and reflective atmosphere.

​Your respect is deeply appreciated by the Thai people. Please be mindful of the following simple guidelines when you travel:

​Dress Modestly: Opt for muted colours (black, white, grey, navy) in public and especially at royal/religious sites. Avoid bright, flashy clothing.

​Be Discreet: Enjoy your trip, but keep conversations and public behaviour respectful and subdued. Nightlife will be quieter.

​Check Ahead: While Thailand is fully operational, royal sites like the Grand Palace may have temporary closures for ceremonies.

​Thailand remains open and welcoming. Your kindness and understanding during this historic time will make your visit even more meaningful.

​➡️ Listen to our episode now for our full guide to respectful travel during this time!

​

​Welcome to the All About Thailand Podcast! I'm your host, Mike, and this is brought to you by Lonely Traveler Productions.

​Today, we dive into a pressing issue currently affecting one of Thailand's most famous destinations: the flooding in Phuket. We'll discuss the situation on the ground, the impact it's having on local life and travel, and the specific weather patterns—including recent non-stop torrential rain, the influence of monsoon troughs, and rising sea levels—that are causing this recurring and sometimes flooding

The Thai authorities are just amazing getting everything back to normal quickly

​Join us as we analyze why this is happening and what it means for residents and visitors to the "Land of Smiles." It's an important conversation

Join your hosts Alex and Mike for a deep dive into one of Thailand’s most persistent, yet often overlooked, challenges: the flash floods in Pattaya. On this episode of All About Thailand, we move past the vibrant beaches and famous nightlife to examine the intense monsoon downpours that routinely turn city streets into canals. We break down the core issues, from outdated drainage infrastructure and rapid urbanization to the significant economic impact on Pattaya's vital tourism sector, and discuss what residents and local authorities are doing to cope with the deluge.

My name is Alex, and today, what we're going to be talking about is the explosion of festivities and festivals that we have in October in Thailand—specifically in the dynamic and fascinating Northeastern region, Isan.

​October is a truly special time of year. It marks the full moon of the eleventh lunar month and, with it, the end of Buddhist Lent, or Vassa. And in Isan, this transition turns the entire region into a stage for some of Thailand's most spiritual, spectacular, and utterly unique celebrations.

Hi everyone, and welcome to "All About Thailand," the podcast from Lonely Traveler Productions. My name is Alex, and I'm so glad to have you with us on this journey. For too long, the stories we hear about Thailand have focused on the same old things, but this country is so much more than what you see on the surface.

​In each episode, we're here to talk about the positive sides of Thailand and give you a real, honest look at what it's like to experience this incredible country. We'll be bringing you a price guide for everything you could want, from street food to luxury resorts, so you know exactly what to expect. We'll explore the breathtaking nature, the delicious food that will make your mouth water, and introduce you to the wonderful people who make Thailand so special.

​Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we're here to help you find the wonderful, marvelous experiences this fascinating country has to offer. So, come and join us. You're going to love it.

Welcome to All About Thailand — I’m Alex, and this episode is brought to you by Lonely Traveler Productions. Today we’re exploring Phuket in the low season: quieter beaches, lush green landscapes, great deals, and fewer crowds. I’ll share the best things to do, top hotels and restaurants to try, and practical tips to help you make the most of your trip. Let’s dive in.

Welcome to the All About Thailand podcast from Lonely Traveler Productions. I’m Mike, your host, and today we’re heading to Koh Phangan — the island famous for its Full Moon Party — but we’re looking at a very different side: low season life.

In this episode I’ll take you through what it’s like to visit Koh Phangan between May and October: quieter beaches, dramatic tropical rains that fill waterfalls and turn the jungle impossibly green, and a slower, more local pace where yoga studios, retreat centers and friendly beach cafés thrive. I’ll cover what to expect — fewer ferries and reduced opening hours for some bars and tours, great accommodation bargains, and the need to plan travel connections a little more carefully — plus the best low-season activities: hiking to hidden viewpoints, snorkeling on calm days, visiting local markets, and joining intimate wellness retreats.

Whether you’re after solitude, nature, or a different kind of island culture away from the party crowds, this episode will help you decide if low-season Koh Phangan is for you, and give practical tips to make the most of your trip. Stay tuned — we’ve got firsthand stories, packing advice, and a few unexpected finds that make the low season feel like discovering a whole new island.

Also link below to All About Thailand Special Edition Podcast

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/lonely-traveler-productio/subscribe

Welcome to All About Thailand from Lonely Traveler Productions. I’m Mike. Imagine soft, uncrowded beaches, seaside cafés with empty tables, and long afternoons spent reading to the sound of waves — that’s Koh Samui in low season. But it’s not all idyll: there can be rain, some businesses close, and your plans need a little flexibility. In this episode we’ll cover exactly what to expect when you visit during the quieter months, plus practical tips for packing, getting around, and choosing hotels that keep welcoming guests year-round

Link to subscribe to special edition podcast below

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/lonely-traveler-productio/subscribe

Welcome to All About Thailand, a Thailand podcast from Lonely Traveler Productions. I’m your host, Mike. Today we’re diving into Pattaya in the low season — everything from where to stay and which neighborhoods to pick, to practical tips that help you save money and still get the best experience. I’ll cover hotel types, suggested areas for bars and nightlife, weather expectations, transport, and a few insider tips for making the most of an affordable low-season trip. Stay with me."

link to subscribe below

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/lonely-traveler-productio/subscribe