Practical Guide for Retiring in Hua Hin/Kaeng Krachan forest fire/Erawan National Park closes/‘Super El Niño’ could extend dry season
- THE IRAN WAR: Trump extends ceasefire/Thailand secures safe Hormuz passage/Energy crisis batters aviation
- ECONOMY: Thai homebuyers pull back/KKP warns Thailand faces recession/Thai banks post solid Q1 profits/Government denies VAT hike/Long-stay visas for condo buyers
- TOURISM: Oil shock from war hits tourism/Fuel surcharges jump/Thai Vietjet suspends some routes/Thai hotels brace for softer Q2
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s cultural triumph/Rookie Mistakes To Avoid/Lisa brings Thai fashion to tourism/Foreigner Claims Tax-Free Living in Phuket
- CLIMATE THAILAND: China’s Chery Opens New EV Plant/Middle East war revs up demand for EVs
- INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Retirement Visa Thailand: A Practical Guide for Retiring in Hua Hin
There’s a certain rhythm to life in Hua Hin that’s hard to ignore. Mornings start a little slower, the sea is never far away, and the pace feels more manageable than in larger cities.
It’s no surprise that many expats begin to picture long-term retirement here, even if the practical side of staying in Thailand, particularly visa requirements, can feel less straightforward at first. It’s often at this stage that people find themselves browsing resources just to make sense of how everything fits together. Continued …
Kaeng Krachan forest fire burns 5,000 rai in Phetchaburi
A forest fire has burned about 5,000 rai (roughly 8 square kilometers) in Kaeng Krachan forest and spread near homes in Phetchaburi, while officials have also found two gaur carcasses in the burned area with gunshot wounds.
The update was reported yesterday after the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry ordered agencies to step up forest fire prevention and suppression efforts in the Kaeng Krachan forest complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continued …
Erawan National Park closes due to forest fires, PM2.5 spike
Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi has temporarily closed all tourism activities and overnight stays after worsening forest fires and hazardous PM2.5 pollution levels exceeded safety standards, officials said yesterday.
Park chief Phiphat Chimpli said the closure follows ongoing forest fire and haze conditions in the area, which have pushed the 24-hour average PM2.5 level to 42.9 micrograms per cubic metre — considered harmful to both visitors and staff. He added that some areas of the park have already been damaged by the fires. Continued …
‘Super El Niño’ could extend Thailand’s dry season into next year
The Climate Change and Environment Department has warned that the country may face the effects of a “super El Niño,” which could extend the dry season by up to one and a half years.
Citing the Climate Risk Index 2026–2027 by Germanwatch, the department’s director-general, Phirun Saiyasitpanich, said Thailand’s ranking among countries most affected by extreme heat has risen from 72nd place in 2020 to 17th in 2024. Continued …
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
Vilhelm International Academy launched in March 2026 and has is campus at “The Hub” in Hin Lek Fai, less than 10 minutes from the center of town. They provide mentor-led academic supervision for students studying through accredited online school programs, whether independently enrolled or through integrated programs offered at Vilhelm. This means that students follow a fixed timetable, complete coursework under supervision, and receive ongoing progress monitoring. They can do this whist studying for their GCSE’s, A-Levels, NCAA approved US courses, or any other online school they choose to use.
Unlike more traditional options, at the academy children can learn at their own pace, not being forced forward before they are ready and also not being held back by the rest of the class. When they are ready to move on they do so. By coming to the academy each day, they are able to complement their studies with activities that develop leadership skills, community service (such as the recent helmet initiative), complemented by daily sports and physical activity to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
You can visit the website for more details, or you can book an appointment to meet with the academy co-ordinator to discuss what you are looking for and explain what they can offer. There is a completely free five-day trial period that can be taken advantage of by anyone interested in seeing if the academy is the right fit for them.
Website; Email: info@vilhelminternationalacademy.com; Phone: +66 065 991 5500; Facebook; Map location.
Trump extends ceasefire until Iran can submit pivotal proposal
US President Donald Trump announced yesterday that he would extend the ceasefire with Iran until the country submitted a peace proposal and “discussions are concluded, one way or the other.”
The president made the announcement as the chances for talks between the two sides were growing increasingly dim. Trump also confirmed he would continue the naval blockade of Iranian ports, a move that Iran’s leaders have called “an act of war.” Continued …
Thailand secures safe Hormuz passage for three stranded vessels
Thailand has coordinated with Iran and Oman to secure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for three Thai vessels carrying oil and petrochemical cargoes. The breakthrough has helped reduce the risk of energy and petrochemical feedstock shortages in Thailand amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
PTT Public Co. confirmed the successful return of the Serifos, a very large crude carrier (VLCC) carrying 2 million barrels of crude oil, which is expected to arrive back in Thailand in late April. The vessel had been stranded at Sharjah Ports in the United Arab Emirates since March 7. Continued …
Energy crisis batters aviation, 150,000 flights cut worldwide
A deepening oil crisis triggered by ongoing conflict in the Middle East is dealing a severe blow to the global aviation industry, with Thai airlines also facing mounting pressure as jet fuel prices surge and supply risks intensify. Jet fuel prices have surged by between two and three times — or about 129% — amid growing concerns over possible supply shortages.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global jet fuel prices rose sharply from US$99.04 per barrel (about 3,300 baht per barrel) in late February to US$209 per barrel (about 7,400 baht per barrel) in early April. Continued …
Thai homebuyers pull back as ‘Generation Rent’ gains ground
Thailand’s housing market is showing signs of a structural shift, with would-be buyers pulling back and more people turning to renting instead. The latest data from DDproperty shows that nationwide demand to buy residential property fell 6% in the first quarter of 2026, while rental demand rose 4%. In Bangkok, rental demand climbed even faster, jumping 9%.
In the past, buying a home was widely seen as a major life goal. Today, it is increasingly viewed as a long-term financial burden, especially at a time when the economy remains uncertain, incomes are not rising as quickly as living costs, and households are under pressure from borrowing costs and day-to-day expenses. Continued …
KKP cuts GDP forecast, warns Thailand faces recession risk
KKP Research, the economic research unit of Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group, has cut its base-case forecast for Thailand’s 2026 GDP growth to 1.3% from 1.8% and raised its headline inflation forecast to 3.0% from 0.2%, warning that a prolonged oil shock could leave the country exposed to recession risks.
The research house said Thailand now faces a more dangerous mix of slowing growth and rising prices, with the economy vulnerable through four channels at the same time. KKP Research said its base case assumes the war will ease within the next two to three weeks, with Brent crude averaging US$92.5 a barrel this year before falling below US$70 by the end of 2027. Continued …
Thai banks post solid Q1 profits — Kasikornbank leads sector
Thailand’s commercial banking sector delivered a resilient performance in the first quarter of 2026, with all 11 major lenders reporting combined net profits of 68.68 billion baht, a modest 0.62% increase from the same period last year and a sharp 20.13% rise from the previous quarter.
The results cover key institutions including Kasikornbank (KBANK), Krungthai Bank (KTB), SCB X (SCB), TMBThanachart Bank (TTB), Bank of Ayudhya (BAY), Kiatnakin Phatra Bank (KKP), Tisco Financial Group (TISCO), CIMB Thai Bank (CIMBT), Land and Houses Financial Group (LHFG), Thai Credit Bank (CREDIT) and Bangkok Bank (BBL). Continued …
Government denies planning VAT hike
The government has firmly denied reports suggesting a planned hike in value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%, describing the claims as misinformation and reiterating its commitment to easing the cost of living for the general public.
Deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the administration has no policy to raise VAT at this time, stressing that priorities are focused on reducing household expenses and supporting economic recovery. Continued …
Long-stay visas for condo buyers in Phuket clarified
Immigration authorities and real estate executives held a briefing yesterday to clarify the new long-stay visa program for foreign real estate investors, which aims to attract high-potential buyers and support economic activity in Thailand’s property sector.
One-year renewable visas are now available for foreigners who purchase condominiums valued at 3 million baht or more, or rent housing at a minimum of 85,000 baht per month. Continued …
Oil shock from war hits tourism as China flights to Thailand may fall 30%
Thailand’s tourism industry is beginning to feel the strain from the war in the Middle East, with soaring oil prices pushing up airline costs and prompting some Chinese carriers to scale back international flights.
Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), said the current conflict had already started affecting Chinese airlines, some of which were gradually reducing international services during the 2026 summer flight schedule as fuel costs rose directly with oil prices. Continued …
Fuel surcharges jump as airlines tighten schedules
Local airlines have continued to reduce capacity by consolidating less profitable flights into remaining services to stay afloat amid rising jet fuel prices, while Japan Airlines and ANA announced a doubling of fuel surcharges, with Thailand-bound fuel surcharges increasing from about 3,000 baht to 6,000 baht.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) received reports from most airlines operating in Thailand on their adjusted flight schedules for the coming months and needs at least a week to assess how aviation in Thailand has been affected by rising jet fuel prices, said Sarun Benjanirat, deputy director of the regulator. Continued …
Thai Vietjet suspends some routes as oil crisis hits summer flights
Thai Vietjet has begun adjusting its network as the energy crisis linked to the war in the Middle East pushes airline costs sharply higher, with some services now being suspended temporarily during the Summer 2026 schedule.
According to the latest schedule update, the airline will temporarily suspend its Suvarnabhumi-Fukuoka service from May 11 to June 30. The route had previously operated four flights a week. Thai Vietjet will also suspend its Suvarnabhumi-Kolkata service until May 31, after previously operating four weekly flights. Continued …
Thai hotels brace for softer Q2 as Middle East conflict hits travel
The March 2026 Hotel Business Operator Sentiment Index survey, conducted by the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) and the Bank of Thailand between March 13-31, with responses from 138 operators, pointed to the outlook for Thailand’s hotel business during the Q2 2026 low season after the tourism sector was directly hit by the conflict in the Middle East.
Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the association, said the March sentiment index showed that nearly 50% of hotel businesses across all star ratings expected average daily rates (ADR) in the second quarter this year to decline from the same period last year. Continued …
Thailand’s cultural triumph
One way to measure the success of the recently concluded Songkran festival is through data: the millions of revelers and the billions in revenue. But perhaps a truer metric lies in the departing words of overseas visitors.
As they ascend the “saddest escalator in the world” toward the Suvarnabhumi Airport departure gates — clinging to some of the “best moments” of their lives — their online posts tell the story. “No festival in the world makes you laugh with strangers within five minutes,” one traveler noted. “Are you kidding me? You can throw water at the traffic police who smile back at you,” marveled another. Continued …
Rookie Mistakes To Avoid When Visiting Thailand
From temple-dotted cities to island-fringed seas and night markets that hum well past midnight, Thailand offers the sort of allure that makes sticking to your plan to explore somewhere entirely new surprisingly difficult. It’s why that internet saying “the one where you’re supposed to be exploring the world but somehow find yourself back in Thailand for the nth time”, lands a little too close to home.
But what’s even more relatable is those first-visit jitters and the head-scratching moments that come with it, especially when local customs and everyday travel norms aren’t immediately obvious. Continued …
Blackpink’s Lisa brings Thai fashion to tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has unveiled the official behind-the-scenes VDO of its latest TVC, “feel all the feelings,” featuring Lalisa “LISA” Manobal as the Amazing Thailand Ambassador. The campaign aims to comprehensively convey the charm and emotional depth of Thai tourism.
In addition to the inherent beauty of various tourist destinations, it also features meticulously curated “fashion and locally made handicrafts.” These elements enrich the narrative by profoundly reflecting Thai identity, way of life, and cultural aesthetics.
Transcending mere apparel or accessories, the fashion showcased in this TVC serves as a platform where fashion intricately interweaves emotions, sentiments, and the beauty of Thai culture. Through a seamless blend of contemporary design and traditional Thai heritage, attires, and accessories worn by “LISA” — crafted by Thai designers and brands — present the charm of stylish, modern Thai fashion into the spotlight.
Foreigner Buys 56-million-baht Home, Claims Tax-Free Living in Phuket
A foreign social media user has sparked discussion online after announcing the purchase of a 56-million-baht home in Phuket, while claiming they could live there long-term without paying taxes on global income. This claim has intrigued many, especially the tax-free aspect, which has drawn skepticism.
The post described the property as a freehold and linked the acquisition to “wealthy global citizenships,” suggesting benefits like indefinite residency and 0% global income tax. The individual’s message mentioned that Thailand offers a favorable option for business and family life, challenging the perception that tax havens are limited to Dubai, Monaco, and the Cayman Islands. Continued …
China’s Automaker Chery Opens New EV Plant In Thailand
Chinese automaker Chery and its subsidiary Omoda & Jaecoo officially inaugurated their new energy vehicle (NEV) production facility in Thailand on Monday, marking a milestone in expanding their global manufacturing footprint.
Located in the eastern Rayong province, the plant is equipped with advanced manufacturing capabilities, including aluminum body welding and comprehensive battery production lines, with a target annual production capacity of 80,000 units by 2030. Continued …
Middle East war revs up demand for EVs
The sales of electric vehicles have jumped in Asia as cost-conscious buyers have poured into dealerships looking to dodge the fuel price spikes driven by the Middle East war.
Many Asian nations have been particularly hard hit due to a sharp fall in the crude shipments they rely on — and have few alternatives to replace them. Yet, the energy crisis has been a windfall for electric vehicle manufacturers. Continued …
Mexico pyramid shooter planned attack, fixated on US massacre
The gunman who killed a Canadian tourist and wounded 13 others at Mexico’s famed Teotihuacan pyramids had planned the attack days in advance, officials said yesterday, as evidence pointed to him being inspired by a US massacre. Continued …
Malaysia offers rare earths alternative to China
Workers load tons of rare earth minerals into bags ready for shipping at a refinery in eastern Malaysia, fueling the global pushback against China’s grip on the critical sector. Rare earths are a key ingredient in products ranging from smartphones to fighter jets, electric cars, and wind turbines – and increasingly for hardware powering the artificial intelligence boom. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Neck and lower back pain rank among the most widespread health concerns worldwide. Years of desk work, sports such as golf and tennis, frequent travel, or previous injuries can gradually take their toll on the spine. Left unaddressed, the discomfort can disrupt sleep, limit mobility, and diminish overall quality of life.
The Miracle of the Three Bays City Fair and Red Cross Festival will return to Prachuap Khiri Khan from April 24 to May 4, with organizers preparing a wide-ranging program of exhibitions, performances, and charity activities.
Thai motorists are paying less for diesel from today after PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. (BCP) announced a B1.20-per-liter reduction in retail diesel prices, following a decision by the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee on Sunday. The new prices took effect on today from 5 am. Petrol and gasohol prices remain unchanged.
Air pollution has reached critical levels in 10 northern provinces, the Pollution Control Department (PCD) warned yesterday, with Nan recording the worst smog, as PM2.5 dust levels nationwide exceeded safety standards in 31 provinces.
Middle East Turmoil Drives Prolonged Natural Gas Surge, High Electricity Costs for 2+ Years
Global aviation faces geopolitical turbulence
The outlook for the retail and wholesale sector looks grim, as consumer spending power is expected to decline in the coming months, alongside anticipated rising goods prices, according to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn.
Thailand’s Senate committee has proposed a tax reform plan to tackle the country’s fiscal deficit, suggesting an increase in value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%. If approved, the proposals will be submitted to the Cabinet for potential implementation.
Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Board of Investment (BOI), said Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and finance minister, led Team Thailand on a visit to Washington, D.C., in the United States from April 13–17, to attend the IMF-World Bank spring meetings, while also expanding cooperation with partner countries and leading economic organizations. Their goal was to attract investment from target companies in advanced technology industries, particularly semiconductors, which are growing rapidly as demand surges in response to AI technology.
In today’s Trade 5.0 landscape, global competition is no longer defined solely by “price”. Instead, it is driven by “trust” and “value” that buyers can genuinely experience and verify — from the origin of raw materials and production standards to the storytelling that gives each brand its identity and distinction.
Four years ago, Thailand became the Weed Wonderland of the East. You couldn’t turn a corner in Bangkok or Pattaya without seeing a big green neon cannabis leaf. In Southeast Asia, which is notorious for having some of the world’s harshest drug laws, it was a first.
The US Embassy in Bangkok has again announced that all applicants for a wide range of US nonimmigrant visas must set their social media accounts to public. The requirement is effective immediately and applies to multiple visa categories, with officials stating it is intended to support identity verification and admissibility screening under US law. Failure to comply will result in delays to visa processing.
Regional tourism operators expect domestic tourism during this low season to perform worse than last year, due to higher living costs and debt levels, unless new stimulus measures are introduced to encourage travel and provide short-term debt relief.
Pattaya Songkran Wan Lai 2026 ended on Sunday with huge crowds packing Pattaya Beach from North Pattaya to South Pattaya for the final day of celebrations.
Thailand’s Krabi Coast from NASA images
Natural gas continues to play a pivotal role in global energy systems, even as the world accelerates its transition toward cleaner alternatives. While solar, wind, and biomass are increasingly in the spotlight as part of international efforts to curb rising temperatures, natural gas is still considered a relatively cleaner fossil fuel and a key driver of economic growth.
The Thai government is introducing low-interest loan packages through four state financial institutions to support households and businesses in adopting clean energy and reducing the impact of rising fuel and electricity costs. These measures seek to address the energy crisis by improving energy efficiency and enhancing long-term energy security and sustainability.
Humanity has spent more than a century pushing life expectancy steadily upward, lifting the global average from just 32 years in 1900 to around 73 years today, thanks largely to vaccines, medical advances, and stronger public health systems. But that long-running achievement is now being shaken by the intensifying effects of global heating.
Diesel and fishing fuel price surge hits PKK’s fishing sector
Road accidents in Prachuap Khiri Khan during the Songkran festival resulted in 36 incidents, 33 injuries, and three deaths over the seven-day monitoring period from April 10-16, according to provincial authorities.
The elevators and escalators at Hua Hin railway station are back in service after passenger complaints highlighted disruption and inconvenience when the equipment was out of order. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) confirmed that both systems have been fully repaired and operational since Thursday following a period in which one elevator and one escalator were found to be faulty.
Health authorities in Thailand have issued an urgent warning following a significant spike in cases of Melioidosis, colloquially known as “Soil Fever.” With 23 fatalities recorded since the start of the year, the government is urging the public — particularly those in agricultural sectors — to remain vigilant against the bacterial infection.
The Social Security Office (SSO) will raise dental benefit limits for its members from May 1, expanding access and reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
Most people in Thailand support stricter penalties for key traffic offenses, but a majority oppose the current fine for speeding, according to a survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA). The findings reflect public backing for tougher enforcement measures introduced from April 1, aimed at improving road safety.
Bangkok has sweltered through 19 straight days of dangerous heat index levels, with extreme heat and humidity pushing conditions into a high-risk zone for public health.
OR launches self-service fuel pilot
Oil prices surged back today after a brief market reprieve collapsed, with traders rattled by the renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz following fresh accusations of ceasefire violations by both the United States and Iran.
Iran is not currently planning to attend talks with the United States, Iranian state media said, after President Donald Trump ordered US negotiators to travel to Pakistan today, just days before a ceasefire in the Middle East expires.
Fresh food prices surge as cost pressures spread wider
The spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) in Washington, D.C., reflected deep concern among global economic leaders over the fragility of an economic system facing increasingly frequent geopolitical shocks, at a time when the ability to cushion the impact remains limited and reliance on the United States to resolve crises is no longer as certain as it once was.
Thai households are facing mounting financial strain as elevated debt levels collide with rising living costs and external economic shocks, raising concerns over repayment capacity and the broader stability of the banking sector, according to Rena Kwok, senior credit analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence.
Thailand’s economy is increasingly seen as fragile now that the Songkran holiday has come to an end, as price freezes on energy and other products are discontinued.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said Thailand stands out as one of the destinations with especially strong readiness, thanks to its distinctive appeal, which combines cultural wellness identity, such as Thai massage and herbal wisdom, natural diversity that creates different experiences in each region, and service standards recognized internationally.
There is a certain tension in the air, one that doesn’t announce itself with headlines, but quietly seeps into the daily arithmetic of life. Across continents, governments are beginning to question a long-held assumption: Was GDP ever the right measure of prosperity?
Thailand is failing its forests
The sugar industry has long been a cornerstone of Thailand’s economy, but its production process is increasingly under scrutiny for its environmental impact. As the country seeks to balance economic growth with sustainability, the sector faces mounting pressure to reduce pollution and align with global climate goals.
The seas of Southeast Asia — home to some of the richest in biodiversity in the world — have long been in decline. Since the 1950s, the Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates that 70%-95% of fish stocks have been depleted and are at risk of collapse, perpetuated by the rise of industrial-scale fishing, much of which is illegal.
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued its seventh warning of the year, cautioning that summer storms will continue to affect upper Thailand through Monday, bringing thunderstorms, strong winds, hail, and isolated lightning strikes alongside extreme heat.
Climate change is leaving an increasingly visible mark on the planet, with temperatures continuing to rise year after year. The latest study shows that summer is now arriving earlier and lasting longer, with growing consequences for daily life, urban planning, and infrastructure.
A male Indochinese tiger known as “Sri Kosa”, a key figure in Thailand’s wild tiger population, has died of natural causes in the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai forest complex, researchers have confirmed.
President Donald Trump said the United States may allow the ceasefire deal with Iran to expire next week if no deal is reached to end the war by Wednesday. Despite that outlook, Trump said there was also “pretty good news” regarding Iran, but the president declined to elaborate as he spoke with reporters aboard Air Force One as he returned to Washington, DC, from Arizona.
The collapse of high-stakes peace talks in Pakistan has sent a chill through global markets, and what happens next is no longer just a geopolitical question. It is a tourism question.
The age of cheap oil is over and Thailand’s rooftops are reflecting that fact. Across homes, garages, and warehouses in the sun-drenched kingdom, the blue-black sheen of solar panels is spreading, as the Iran war has done what years of climate summits could not: turn solar power into a necessity.
Trade between Thailand and the United States surged past US$110 billion in 2025, underlining increasingly strong economic ties between the two countries. But behind the impressive figures lies a long list of trade barriers that Washington wants Bangkok to address in concrete terms.
Thailand has emerged as Southeast Asia’s e-commerce growth engine amid regional market share consolidation. The country has become the standout performer in Southeast Asia’s e-commerce landscape, posting the region’s fastest growth and reinforcing its position as a key battleground for platform dominance, according to a new report released by Singapore-based research firm Momentum Works.
The morning after Bangkok’s biggest Songkran yet
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has unveiled an ambitious vision to transform the city’s Songkran festival into a world-class event, with a strong focus on upgrading infrastructure, improving public space management, and strengthening environmental measures.
Songkran Festival in photos
Mon Songkran rite bathes monks through bamboo channels
Elephant Nature Park Chiang Mai: Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Guide
Divers clear 500kg of ‘ghost nets’ from around Payang Island
Doctors are exploring a different approach to a specific type of breast cancer tumor called cryoablation. It destroys the cancer with extreme cold in a short outpatient procedure that can let them go home the same day. 
Hua Hin celebrates famed boxer Pone Kingpetch
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas has launched its “Introduction to Tennis” camp this April, designed to help kids learn the sport or enhance their skills during the school holidays. The three-day program aims to build players’ confidence, skills, and friendships in a fun and supportive environment under the guidance of an experienced tennis coach and trainer.
The north of Thailand remains under a thick blanket of hazardous smog, as the latest satellite data yesterday reveals a surge in forest fires, with over 2,000 hotspots detected across 17 provinces.
Border crossings in Trat and Chanthaburi will remain closed, with no diplomatic talks or timeline set for reopening, says Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
US President Donald Trump yesterday dismissed high fuel costs amid his war with Iran, claiming that the economic damage inflicted by the war was much less severe than expected.
The energy crisis may pose a challenge for the Thai government in pursuing its fiscal plan, which aims to reduce the fiscal deficit to no more than 3% of GDP, increase revenue through a higher value-added tax (VAT), and keep public debt below 70% of GDP, according to the Finance Ministry.
An analysis by Commerzbank indicates that global energy market fluctuations are putting significant downward pressure on the Thai baht. As Thailand imports over 50% of its energy, mainly through crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), rising global energy costs have worsened its trade balance. Consequently, the USD/baht exchange rate has become a focal point for currency traders, closely monitoring the potential policy reactions from the Bank of Thailand (BOT).
Thailand has submitted its formal defense document to the United States by the April 15 deadline, rejecting allegations under Section 301 trade measures relating to excess production capacity and goods linked to forced labor. Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun is also preparing to meet the US Trade Representative (USTR) in early May as discussions intensify over potential tariff actions affecting Thai exports.
Thailand’s retail sector showed a temporary improvement in March, but the industry is still flashing warning signs for the months ahead, with confidence for the second quarter falling back below the 50-point threshold, as oil prices, higher operating costs, and weak purchasing power weigh on the outlook.
Thailand’s workforce is broadly happy — but warning signs are emerging beneath the surface. A new survey by Jobsdb by SEEK shows that overall workplace happiness among Thai employees stands at 67%, placing the country third in the region, behind Indonesia and the Philippines.
True Corp. said its latest mobility data highlights shifting travel patterns and real-time digital usage during Songkran 2026, showing more evenly distributed travel nationwide, led by the northeast (Isaan), while international arrivals continued to rise, with Chinese tourists ranking first.
Middle East conflict hits Phang Nga tourism – hundreds of tour boats sitting idle
Thai Gen Z travelers are reshaping travel habits in 2026 by favoring short but frequent trips over traditional long holidays, with mental well-being and value for money emerging as top priorities, according to the online booking platform Agoda.
Returning to Bangkok after two years, I found the city far more organized than expected. The once-chaotic and disorderly image of a Southeast Asian metropolis — especially the dire conditions on Bangkok’s streets during the COVID-19 pandemic — had faded. Instead, I was struck by a sense of managed order and tidy streets.
Agoda Names Chiang Mai Asia’s Premier Culinary Destination
Thailand is preparing to open its electricity system to households, allowing those with rooftop solar panels to sell surplus power back into the grid, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas said yesterday.
Rice farmers Siriporn and Amnat Taidee used to burn their paddy fields between plantings — a common method of clearing crop residue partly blamed for toxic smog that blankets much of Thailand every spring.
Private schools in Thailand face an unprecedented wave of closures this year, with up to 80 institutions expected to shut, reflecting mounting financial and structural pressures across the sector.
Police have arrested a man for stealing water meters across Prachuap Khiri Khan, with investigators alleging he sold burnt components for scrap to fund drug use. Officers from Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan Police Station detained a 38-year-old suspect Tuesday.
A new overpass is set to be built at Nong Phai intersection on Highway 37 after the Department of Highways signed a contract for the project in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Air quality in Thailand has worsened dramatically, with PM2.5 levels surpassing safety thresholds in 42 provinces, including regions from the north, northeast, and central areas. The Air Pollution Resolution Communication Center reported early on Tuesday that these unsafe levels could intensify over the next week.
Foreign investors are selling Thai assets as an energy shock from the US-Israeli war on Iran threatens to snuff out hopes for an economic revival under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and exposes the policy paralysis that is gripping Bangkok.
Rice prices have surged the most in more than two years on concerns about the supply outlook after the cost of fuel and fertilizer jumped due to the Iran war, prompting some Thai farmers to leave their crop in the ground.
Michelin-listed restaurant operators expect a gloomy outlook for the dining business this year, hampered by sluggish spending and surging energy costs.
Why April 15 marks Thailand’s true New Year in the ancient tradition
Elephants lead Songkran water pouring in Chiang Mai
Songkran 2026 draws huge Thai and foreign turnout as festival goes global
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin yesterday said the ministry was acting in line with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s policy to intensify wildfire prevention and haze control, with the key objective of stopping fires from the very start.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a severe weather alert for summer storms expected in upper Thailand from April 16 to 18. The forecast includes thunderstorms, strong winds, isolated hail, and possible lightning.
Three Thai families remain among Asia’s 20 wealthiest dynasties, as combined fortunes across the region reached a record US$647 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The Chearavanont, Yoovidhya, and Chirathivat families together account for an estimated 14.4% of the total. The ranking highlights a major shift toward industries supporting artificial intelligence growth.
China has warned it will respond with countermeasures if the United States imposes higher tariffs based on allegations that Beijing is providing military support to Iran, after US President Donald Trump threatened a 50% tariff on Chinese imports if China sells weapons to Tehran.
Thai industry warns of stagflation risk as factory closures jump 58%
Foreign condominium transfers across Thailand in 2025, from January to December, rose in terms of units but fell in total value compared with the previous year, according to an analysis by the Real Estate Information Center of the Government Housing Bank.
Feasibility studies behind land bridge said ‘inaccurate’
Koh Phi Phi Thailand island viewpoints and beaches
Southeast Asia’s Solar Panel Boom
The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), the Thai seafood company Laylanta Co., and Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park are collaborating to strengthen the sustainability of barramundi cage farming in Songkhla Lake, Thailand.
Hua Hin’s Luxury Boom Spurs New Airline Links and Property Rush
More than 7.8 million people used public transport during the first three days of the Songkran holiday and the number of road traffic accidents fell significantly, the Ministry of Transport said yesterday.
Adolescent leopard sighted in Kaeng Krachan National Park
US blockade on Iran-linked port traffic takes effect as Hormuz tensions deepen
Thailand has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s leading data center destinations, drawing billions of baht in investment from American, Chinese, and Japanese technology giants — but an expert has warned that the country’s ability to capitalize on this momentum depends on urgently resolving deep-rooted energy infrastructure constraints.
Jet fuel hikes have forced South Korean no-frills airlines to adjust, or in some cases suspend, flights to Thai destinations as the Middle East war continues to bite into the aviation sector.
Hua Hin Songkran crowds swell as tourists flock to water festival
A gun accident in Cha Am has left one person dead and another injured after a man from Phetchaburi claimed his firearm discharged accidentally, with the bullet striking a police officer’s son.
Traffic on Rama 2 Road was flowing smoothly in both directions as of 7 pm Saturday, with vehicles moving at speeds of 80 to 100 kilometers per hour. The Department of Highways confirmed the update after temporarily halting all construction work on the road, reopening main lanes to ease travel during the Songkran festival.
Mae Hong Son province has suffered wave after wave of forest fires, with the total number of hotspots so far this year exceeding what was registered the entire last year, while arson continues.
The long Songkran holiday is Thailand’s annual window for family get-togethers. However, as social structures break down, the traditional New Year holiday joy is being eroded by a deep anxiety: the fear of dying alone.
The United States military has announced a blockade on all shipping entering and leaving Iranian ports, sending global oil prices sharply higher and marking a major escalation after talks between Washington and Tehran failed to end the conflict.
Thailand’s export competitiveness is weakening, as global freight costs surge 30%, raising concerns over trade and consumer prices, a shipping industry leader said. While the United States and Iran have reached a two-week ceasefire, ongoing uncertainty continues to disrupt shipping routes and supply chains.
Asia’s ‘panicked farmers’ brace for a looming rice crisis post-Iran war
Thailand backs land bridge and EEC infrastructure investment drives
Thailand’s property market is witnessing a curious paradox as it enters the second quarter of 2026. According to the latest data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), international buyers are flocking to the kingdom in increasing numbers, yet they are significantly tightening their purse strings.
There have been a number of announcements from state agencies to do with visa policies in Thailand over the past several months that seem to have made the matter rather convoluted.
Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Thitiporn Chirasawadi has underscored the growing importance of medical tourism from Bangladesh to Thailand, noting that a significant number of Bangladeshi patients have chosen Thailand as a trusted destination for healthcare over the years.
The government’s push to promote clean energy with soft loans and tax incentives for solar installations are a “golden opportunity” to accelerate the country’s transition toward renewables, an academic says.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán conceded defeat yesterday, after the country’s opposition party Tisza was projected to win the parliamentary elections in a landslide, marking a setback for his allies in Russia and US President Donald Trump. 
US President Donald Trump lashed out at Pope Leo XIV on social media over the pontiff’s criticism of the U.S.-Israel war with Iran, calling him “weak” on crime and “terrible” for foreign policy. “I don’t want a Pope who criticizes the president of the United States because I’m doing exactly what I was elected,” Trump wrote yesterday. 
Fuel prices across Thailand will fall from today, with diesel dropping by 4 baht to 44.4 baht per liter and benzine also reduced, providing immediate relief ahead of the Songkran holiday period.
What Is Songkran, the Thai New Year Festival, and Where to Enjoy It
Songkran Thailand: A Timeless Tradition of Splashing Through Generations
Due to the surge in fuel prices, many travelers are booking trains to their hometowns ahead of the Songkran holiday. Passenger numbers at Buri Ram Railway Station rose by 30% compared to previous festival periods.
As Thais gear up for the upcoming Songkran holiday, I can’t help but notice how this year’s highly anticipated days off and time off work have a bit more nuance to them than usual. Granted, people are still discussing rest, relaxation and how they will fully utilize their time away from the office, while the jetset crowd will undoubtedly make full use of flying overseas and avoiding Middle Eastern routes, but something feels a bit different this year.
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz with fee collection as proposed by Iran, together with high oil prices, is dampening the prospects for Thai exports and may push overseas shipments into contraction this year, economists say.
15-year-old girl collects bottles to support family
A major Thai manufacturer of plastic tanks and boats is set to close down after more than 50 years in business, as soaring costs and weakening demand finally pushed the company beyond its limit.
The Department of Medical Services recommends that anyone planning to visit countries where Meningococcal disease is prevalent be vaccinated first to prevent infection. Dr. Sakan Bunnag, the department’s deputy chief, said the disease is caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. It leads to meningitis and spinal cord infection, he said.
Elephants join in Songkran festivities in Ayutthaya
Phuket’s Songkran celebrations have long stood apart from the rest of Thailand’s travel experiences — not merely for the scale of the water fights, but for the particular alchemy of beach culture, Sino-Portuguese heritage, and deep Buddhist tradition that gives the island its distinct New Year character.
Need some inspiration for your next vacation? Consider a short getaway to nearby Thailand, which is brimming with some of the region’s most beautiful and luxurious resort destinations. Here’s what to see and do in the idyllic enclaves of Hua Hin, Krabi, Phuket, Samui, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai, and the best hotels to stay at.
Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa has announced urgent measures to accelerate plastic recycling in Thailand, as the country grapples with a shortage of plastics caused by the ongoing Israel–US conflict with Iran. The initiative, he said, is not only aimed at easing immediate supply pressures but also at strengthening long-term environmental protection.
In 2020, Thai authorities announced that they would endeavour to make Thailand a regional electric vehicle (EV) hub in just five years. True enough, by 2025, Chinese EV manufacturing companies had made the country a solid base.
Humanity took a giant leap closer to the lunar surface last evening as the Artemis II Orion spacecraft, Integrity, successfully splashed down in the Pacific Ocean. The safe return of the four-person crew marks the conclusion of a historic 10-day mission and the first time humans have journeyed to the vicinity of the Moon in over half a century. 
New 24/7 Pet Channel targets China’s growing pet market