Hey Phuket Fam!
Welcome to the 10th edition of our Phuket Community Newsletter – your go-to for everything happening on the island and beyond.
Here’s what’s waiting for you this week:
💼 Want a DTV Visa? Here’s What You Need to Know
📸 Is Facial Recognition the Future of Travel in Thailand?
🎶 Unmissable Music Festivals in Thailand to Close Out 2024!
💼✈️ Want a DTV Visa? Here’s What You Need to Know
Alright, if you're looking to live or work in Thailand long-term, you’ve probably asked yourself:
“How do I even start applying for a DTV Visa?”
“Will I qualify?”
“What’s the process like? Do I need a lawyer, or can I just figure this out myself?”
After talking to one of the top Muay Thai gyms that knows this process like the back of their hand, we’ve got the insider scoop. Here’s what they shared:
1. Don’t Overthink Your Qualifications
Think you’re not the ‘right type’ for a DTV Visa? Don’t stress.
If you’re financially secure, healthy, and genuinely interested in living in Thailand, you’re halfway there.
Focus on what you do bring to the table: stability, respect for the local culture, and a plan.
2. Get Your Paperwork Sorted, No Last-Minute Panic
This one’s key. Start gathering the essentials:
Passport copies
Bank statements showing financial stability
A clean police record
Imagine it like prepping for a big fight—plan ahead, and keep everything in one place.
3. The Health Check? It’s Basic.
Don’t let the word ‘health check’ freak you out.
It’s straightforward: a quick visit to a doctor, check the basics (no serious infectious diseases), and you’re good to go.
One guy I spoke to thought he’d need an extensive physical… turns out, it was over in 15 minutes.
4. Proof of Financial Stability – Show the Numbers
Here’s the reality: Thailand wants to see you’re financially stable.
Keep it simple. You’ll need to show:
Bank account balance of a specific amount
Income or assets – anything that proves you’re covered.
5. Follow Up, Don’t Fall Through the Cracks
After you apply, keep checking in.
Thailand’s visa process can be a bit slow, so don’t just wait around.
Set reminders, email your contact, and don’t let your file collect dust.
Bottom line? Getting a DTV Visa is a bit of a journey, but it’s totally doable.
More info about DTV? Read it here.
🤔📸 Is Facial Recognition the Future of Travel in Thailand?
Thailand's rolling out facial recognition tech across six of its biggest airports.
Now, I know what you’re thinking…
"Is this just another airport hassle?"
Or maybe: “Does this mean Big Brother is watching?”
Let’s break it down, no fluff.
What This Means for You:
Fast-Tracked Check-ins: The new system promises speed when traveling, cutting queues, and saving you time. Less waiting, more exploring.
Extra Security: We’re talking real-time ID checks without the manual paperwork. This tech can catch mismatches instantly, which, frankly, feels like a good thing if it means more security.
Privacy Questions – Not everyone’s thrilled about facial scans. Some people see it as a privacy invasion, and that’s fair. Thailand’s government says it’s secure, but if you're feeling uneasy, it’s worth knowing what’s happening with your data.
Quick Travel Tips if You’re Nervous:
Check with your airline – Some airlines may still let you skip the facial scan, depending on the setup.
Opt for offline options – Whenever possible, you can still check-in or manage other docs without relying on facial ID.
Stay in the know – If you’re a regular in Thailand, keep up with updates. Tech changes fast.
Is It Worth It?
At the end of the day, this is about saving time and keeping things secure.
Thailand wants to level up, and this is just the start.
Let’s see where it goes – but next time you’re at the airport, be ready to just look, blink, and go.
Read more about it here.
🎶🎉 Ending 2024 on a High Note: Ready to Hit Thailand’s Music Scene?
Thailand’s music scene is back and bigger than ever for the end of 2024, and if you’re wondering where to get your fix, this is your guide.
Whether you’re here for electronic beats or live bands, you’ve got choices.
Here’s a breakdown to help you find your vibe, snag the right tickets, and get hyped up for Thailand’s top festivals this year.
Top Picks You Need to Know About:
Bae Vibes
If you’re into the underground scene, Bae Vibes at Studio Lam is the place to be.
This year’s headliner? Skaai – a new wave hip-hop artist all the way from Japan, making his Thailand debut.
Also joining? Local talents Rejizz, Subnet, and G-bear.
Dates: 9 November 2024
Location: Studio Lam, Bangkok
Tickets: From THB 450 (THB 700 at the door)
Headliners: Skaai, Rejizz, Subnet, G-bear
Rolling Loud
Hip-hop lovers, this one’s for you. Rolling Loud is coming to Thailand for a non-stop rap fest featuring big names and rising stars.
If you’re a fan of live hip-hop, this is where you want to be.
Dates: 22-24 November 2024
Location: Legend Siam, Pattaya
Tickets: 3-day tickets from THB 14,600, single-day tickets from THB 6000 (VIP starts from THB 9500/day)
Headliners: A$AP Rocky, Lil Wayne, Playboi Carti, and DJ Snake as special guest
Maho Rasop
Maho Rasop has earned serious street cred among global music lovers.
It’s Bangkok’s go-to festival for diverse, quality acts, with a lineup that mixes punk, jazz, underground, and hip-hop.
Expect top-tier live shows from rising talents across every genre.
Dates: 23-24 November 2024
Location: Esc Park, Bangkok
Tickets: From THB 3490 for a one-day pass, or THB 4990 for a two-day pass (from THB 4990 for one-day VIP)
Headliners: Addy x Hippo Campus, Air
808 Festival
Since 2013, 808 Festival has been pulling EDM fans from all over the world.
This year’s lineup? Anyma presents Genesys, Adam Beyer, and Chase & Status – so get ready to move.
Dates: 6-8 December 2024
Location: Bitec Bang Na, Bangkok
Tickets: Only Tier 2 available now, priced at THB 4200 for three-day pass
Headliners: Anyma presents Genesys, Adam Beyer, Chase & Status, James HYPE, Mau P, Miss Monique, Sara Landry
Before You Go:
Plan Ahead: Tickets sell fast. If there’s one festival you really want, don’t sit on it.
Pack Right: Some of these festivals are outdoors, so think sunscreen, hats, comfy shoes.
Know the Vibe: Every festival here has a different crowd. Pick one that matches your energy.
Final Thought
Thailand’s festival scene is a different experience altogether.
It’s about music, but it’s also about the people, the atmosphere, and, honestly, just getting lost in the moment.
If you’re ready to end 2024 on a high note, you know where to start.
For details and ticket info, check out the full guide here.
And that’s a wrap for this week!
Keep an eye out for more on Phuket’s events, insider tips, and all the latest buzz.
Got an event or some local news? We’d love to hear from you!
If you’re passionate about Phuket and want to join our community, reach out—we’re always excited to welcome new voices!
Cheers,
Codi & The Phuket Community Team
