TL;DR Summary: MTV’s The Challenge: Cutthroat Season 42 was filmed in Thailand, featuring locations including Bangkok, Pattaya, and the Andaman Sea. In this Thailand Insider interview, longtime host T.J. Lavin shares his favorite experiences—from exploring Bangkok’s night markets and enjoying Pad See Ew to scuba diving around Phi Phi Islands, which he calls some of the best diving of his life. Above all, he says Thailand’s warm hospitality is what makes the destination unforgettable.
In this Thailand Insider Q&A, longtime host T.J. Lavin shares what makes Thailand worth visiting:
- Exploring Pattaya and discovering local spots during his downtime
- Browsing Bangkok’s sprawling night markets, eating authentic Thai food (his favorite dish is Pad See Ew)
- Scuba diving the Phi Phi Islands, which he calls the best diving of his life.
His biggest takeaway for first-time travelers to Thailand is that the warmth and hospitality of the Thai people is what makes the country unforgettable.
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From bustling streets of Bangkok and Pattaya’s vibrant coastline to the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Thailand becomes more than just a backdrop in MTV’s The Challenge: Cutthroat. Season 42 showcases the country’s diverse landscapes while longtime host T.J. Lavin shares why Thailand continues to be one of his favorite destinations. As the series premieres August 5 exclusively on Paramount+, audiences will discover why Thailand captivates travelers from around the world.
Longtime host T.J. Lavin has guided Challengers through some of the world’s most unforgettable destinations, and Thailand remains one of his favorites. We caught up with T.J. to hear about his favorite filming locations, memorable adventures, incredible food and the warm hospitality that left a lasting impression, and why he believes Thailand is a destination every traveler should experience.
Show Host T.J. Lavin on Filming MTV’s The Challenge: Cutthroat in Thailand
You’ve hosted The Challenge in some incredible locations around the world. What was your first reaction when you found out Season 42 would be filming in Thailand?
A. I’m no stranger to Thailand, but I have never spent any time in Bangkok or in Pattaya. So when I heard that we were going back, I was ecstatic.
Without giving away any spoilers, how does Thailand’s scenery and environment add to the overall atmosphere and energy of this season?
A. There is such a diverse landscape in Thailand. From the cities of Bangkok and Pattaya to the beaches and oceans it is an incredible place to film. However, the heat is a different kind of heat and it will drain you if you’re not fully hydrated at all times. Which made for a very difficult competition. I loved it. It really added to the show.
Was there a particular location in Thailand that made you stop and think, “This is an incredible place to film”?
A. I think the most memorable time that I thought this is an amazing place to film was when we were on top of a building in Bangkok seeing the concrete jungle. The sunset was incredible that day.
What’s been your favorite memory or experience from your time in Thailand — either on or off camera?
A. Riding the scooters throughout Thailand has been the best experience ever. It was so free and the people couldn’t have been nicer. I really loved it so much that I came home and bought a scooter too, but it just wasn’t the same.
Did you have the chance to explore beyond the set? If so, were there any places, cultural experiences, or hidden gems that stood out to you?
A. The night markets were some of my favorite times. They were huge with shops and quality merchandise as well. I really loved the bargains — every time I left the hotel was a new adventure.
Thai cuisine is loved around the world. Did you discover any favorite Thai dishes, snacks, or local restaurants while filming?
A. Believe it or not I loved the Italian food over there. The Indian places were amazing as well. That being said my favorite food when I’m home is Thai, and the Thai food was as expected or maybe even better, with my favorite being Pad See Ew .
You’re known for your adventurous spirit. Was there anything you experienced in Thailand that felt especially memorable or uniquely “T.J.”?
A. It wasn’t this trip — it was past trips that I went a little crazy with canyon swings, bungee jumping, and scuba diving. This trip I found my love for riding motor scooters all over the place. It was my main form of transportation and, as I said before, it was the hub of my Thailand experience.
After spending time in Thailand, what surprised you most about the country or its people?
A. The amount of English speakers in some rural areas. I know most of Thailand knows English but that still blows me away.
Many fans dream of visiting the places they see on The Challenge. If someone were planning their first trip to Thailand, what would you encourage them to experience?
A. The best that I’ve ever seen in my life is scuba diving in the Phi Phi Islands and Thailand. Riding motor scooters through Pattaya is right up there with it. So I would tell anyone who is coming to Thailand for the first time — rent a scooter and go scuba diving no matter what you do.
What do you hope viewers take away about Thailand after watching Season 42?
A. I wish the viewers of The Challenge could meet the people of Thailand, because that is the number one thing that makes it so special.
Whether you’re inspired by the adrenaline-filled competition or Thailand’s incredible cities, beaches, cuisine, and once in a lifetime adventures, The Challenge: Cutthroat offers a glimpse into what makes Thailand such an unforgettable destination. Ready to plan your own adventure? Explore more travel inspiration, destinations, and itineraries on Thailand Insider.