The Thai Brief #3: Lanterns, salt wells and the 45-baht train

Checked bags can now be opened without you present

From Oct 16, 2026, airport security in Thailand may open checked bags without the passenger present if screening flags a suspicious item. The inspection is video-recorded and a notice is left inside the bag. The official advice is to use TSA-approved locks and keep valuables, documents and fragile items in your carry-on.

Sources: thailand.prd.go.th

Planned 45-baht fare cap across Bangkok rail lines

The Transport Ministry is aiming to launch a common ticketing system on Jan 1, 2027. You would pay one entry fee across lines, fares would be capped at 45 baht a trip, and you could tap a contactless (EMV) bank card. It's a plan for now, not in effect yet.

Sources: www.bangkokpost.com

Update: the THIM app is confirmed official

Following up on issue #2, we've now confirmed the THIM app through official sources. Immigration Bureau runs it, and TAT says it does not replace the TDAC. You still need to complete the arrival card, either in the app or on tdac.immigration.go.th.

Sources: www.tatnews.org · thim.immigration.go.th

Loy Krathong 2026: Tuesday, Nov 24

The festival falls on the full moon of the 12th Thai lunar month, which this year is Tuesday, Nov 24. People float krathong (small offerings) on rivers, canals and lakes. It isn't a public holiday. Each city runs its own festival around the date, so check local listings.

Sources: www.visit-thailand.org · rooozt.com

Yi Peng in Chiang Mai: Nov 23–25

Chiang Mai Municipality has announced the Yi Peng festival for Nov 23–25, 2026, with the grand krathong procession on Nov 25. Sky lanterns may not be released in the city itself, only at permitted sites outside it. Book rooms early.

Sources: www.visit-thailand.org · www.paidaidmc.com

Sukhothai Loy Krathong & Candle Festival: Nov 15–24

The "Loy Krathong, Burning Candles and Playing with Fire" festival runs Nov 15–24 at Sukhothai Historical Park, with nightly shows.

Sources: www.thailand.go.th

Roots, The Commons Thonglor

One of the pioneers of Bangkok's modern specialty coffee scene. Roots sources from Thai farmers and serves seasonal local lots, often traceable to a specific farm in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. The flagship is at The Commons in Thonglor, which makes a good start for a coffee crawl.

Sources: go2-thailand.com · roavara.com

Nine One Coffee, Nimman Soi 11

A farm-to-cup roaster. The founder grows organic, shade-grown arabica in Doi Saket and roasts it himself. The Nimman café has a glass-roofed terrace and seats beside a stream. Closed Mondays.

Sources: cnxbrew.com

Ruean In Specialty Coffee, near Wat Chaiwatthanaram

A small specialty coffee shop on the road into Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a handy stop to cool down after exploring the temple ruins. Reviewers praise the bean selection, the friendly baristas and the cakes.

Sources: exa.ai · www.tripadvisor.ca

Café 8.98, Ao Nang & Krabi Town

A loft-style café that roasts its own coffee and is popular with Krabi locals and expats. It has a slow bar for V60 and manual espresso, plus all-day food. The original branch is in Ao Nang and there's another in Krabi Town.

Sources: cafe898.com · thailandaddict.com

Leave the vape at home

The UK government's travel advice says it's illegal in Thailand to possess or use vapes, e-cigarettes or heat-not-burn devices, and there's no exception for tourists. Offences can mean confiscation, heavy fines and court proceedings.

Sources: www.gov.uk

Bo Kluea salt wells, Nan

In the mountains of Nan province, villagers still boil brine from ancient wells over wood fires to make salt. It's about 80 km from Nan town, and you'll need your own transport or a driver. Visit early on a weekday, ideally between November and February. Production can pause in the rain.

Sources: www.nanprovince.com · www.thaiholidayguide.com

Driving here: IDP or a Thai licence

According to the Transport Ministry, foreigners can drive with a valid Thai licence, a valid International Driving Permit (IDP), or a licence from an ASEAN country. To convert a foreign licence, residents need their passport, a certificate of residence, a medical certificate, the foreign licence, and a DLT e-learning certificate. Helmets are compulsory on motorbikes.

Sources: thailand.prd.go.th · www.gov.uk

Som tam (green papaya salad)

Shredded green papaya pounded in a mortar into a spicy, sour salad. The Isan and Lao styles are saltier and funkier, often made with pla ra (fermented fish). The central Thai version is sweeter, with peanuts and dried shrimp.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org · theisaanrecord.co

Khop khun khrap / kha (ขอบคุณ): thank you

"Khop khun" means thank you. Men add "khrap" and women add "kha". Say it with a small smile and you'll go a long way.

Sources: general Thai language usage

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