The only 6 Thai iPhone apps you need

When it comes to aesthetics and multimedia content, the news app created by the second-largest English-language newspaper in Thailand may not stand up to the ones developed by the New York Times or Associated Press. But it's packed with real-time news about Thailand. Sure beats the old RSS feeds.

Free

The most useful app for battling Bangkok’s daily gridlock, this graphic-based program mimics the electronic signs featuring congestion reports that hang over Bangkok streets. Green, of course, means good to go. Red means you're screwed. iTraffic is only available in Thai, but it's still handy for showing to taxi drivers if you can't read the language yourself.

Free

It doesn't show you where the biggest Buddha is, nor does it tell you how to say, “I don't want to go to a suit shop” in Thai. But this photographic eBook will help you discover a Bangkok usually left out of travel magazines. We like the quirky pictures and informative narration supplying insight into city life here.

US$4.99

Bangkok's BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway systems are nowhere near as extensive as London’s Tube or the Paris Metro, so it's difficult to get lost or confused. What makes BKK Transit special are its lists of attractions at each stop, such as local markets. Even more useful is its Chao Praya Express boat route info.

Free

There are several Thai phrasebooks in the iTunes App Store, but the one with the most unfortunate name tops the list for simplicity and price. iPoodThai’s phrases are divided into categories, but it also has an alphabetical word listing in case you have a word stuck at the tip of your tongue. Comes with an audio player.

US$2.99

The easy-to-navigate True Move Thailand Guide displays various points of interest around the country and features colorful maps. The Thai-language version of the same app is free.

US$9.99