Tuesday’s news-Oct 3 -

Today’s news: Hua Hin Marriott wins award/Flu outbreak sweeps Thailand/Thailand braces for flash floods/Villages in Sukhothai flooded/Miss Thailand World 2023/2,000 baht fine for exam failures/Bangkok to up garbage fees/Bangkok’s priciest condo/Lower prices of over 151,000 goods/PM urges arms deals delay/Thailand Eyes Halal Leadership/EV makers ramp up promotions/The Ripple Effects of Cannabis Decriminalization/Flights from China almost full/Phuket tourist arrivals drop/Thai Food Became A Worldwide Favorite/Shining a light on Phitsanulok/Top Temples in Bangkok/Head back to Ayutthaya/

Links: 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

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Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa wins tourism award

Marriott International is celebrating after 10 of its hotels and resorts in Thailand were honored in the 14th Thailand Tourism Awards, which recognize the brightest and best travel providers in the “Land of Smiles.”

Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa leads the way with a gold award in the resort category, while nine other properties covering five industry-leading brands won prestigious TAT awards. Continued …

Flu outbreak sweeps Thailand

Thailand is grappling with a severe flu outbreak, with tens of thousands of patients reported in the past two months. The Office for Disease Control and Prevention 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima (OCP9) urges everyone to intensify precautionary measures and to continue wearing masks.

From Jan. 1 to Sept. 19, there have been 185,216 patients with flu and one death, with the majority being females. Most cases are found among 10- to 14-year-olds, followed by newborns to four-year-olds and seven- to nine-year-olds. Continued …

Thailand braces for flash floods as 44 provinces drenched

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) today issued a heavy rain warning and flash floods in 44 provinces. The eastern region is expected to be the hardest hit, with 80% of the area likely to face heavy downpours.

Bangkok is also expected to experience significant heavy rain, with a risk of sudden flash floods and forest water run-off. Continued …

Villages in Sukhothai flooded as Yom River embankment collapses

The embankment along the Yom River in Sukhothai province has collapsed in several areas, sending water from the swollen river gushing into riverside farmland and local communities.

One gaping hole in Ban Wang Yai in Wang Yai subdistrict is about 100 meters long, causing excess water to sweep into Wang Yai and Wang Thong subdistricts. About 500 households are now under water. Continued …

South African-Thai Woman Crowned Miss Thailand World 2023

Tharina Botes, a 26-year-old South African-Thai woman was crowned Miss Thailand World 2023. The Miss Thailand World 2023 beauty pageant final round was held on Sunday night in Bangkok. Tharina is nicknamed “Kanom”. Her father is South African and her mother is Thai. She started her beauty pageant career at 13-years-old. In 2019, she represented Miss Grand from Phuket. In 2021, she was the first runner up in Miss Universe Thailand. (Pattaya News)

Chiang Mai school cancels controversial 2,000 baht fine for exam failures

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) between a teacher and students in a Chiang Mai secondary school, which required students to pay a fine of 2,000 baht per credit if they failed or scored zero in exams, has been scrapped.

The MOU, which attracted criticism on social media, was not mandated by the school’s administrators but was the initiative of the class teacher. Continued …

Waste more, pay more: Bangkok to up garbage fees

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is to hold a public hearing to consider the new garbage collection and disposal fee this month following the expiration of the current rate on Oct. 1, Bangkok Deputy Gov. Jakkapan Phiewngam said on Monday.

The current rate, which starts at 20 baht per month for collection and another 20 baht for disposal for households with less than 20 liters of garbage per day, was originally scheduled to expire in October 2019 but was postponed in a bid to reduce people’s financial suffering. Continued …

Bangkok’s priciest pad finds a buyer in a flash

A penthouse at Scope Langsuan in Bangkok swiftly changed hands for 436 million baht (US$11.832 million) just one week after hitting the market, setting a new record as Thailand’s most expensive condominium.

Scope Langsuan is a collaboration between Scope Co. and SC Asset Corp. The condominium is positioned as an ultra-luxury residence targeting an international premium group, with a project investment totaling approximately 7 to 8 billion baht. Continued …

‘Quick Win’ policy launched to lower prices of over 151,000 goods

Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed confidence on Monday that the government’s “Quick Win” policy to reduce the cost of living by reducing consumer goods’ prices would create a “win-win” for both operators and consumers.

Phumtham told a press conference that 288 business operators had agreed to support the measure to reduce prices of 151,675 items of goods and services from now until the end of this year. Phumtham said the operators included 88 manufacturers of foods and necessities and 83 department stores and large retailers. Continued …

PM urges arms deals delay, to spend on poor instead

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has asked the armed forces to delay their arms procurement plans for the 2024 fiscal year so the government can spend its budget to help those who are most in need, sources said.

The sources said on Monday that Srettha has instructed Defense Minister Sutin Klunsang and the PM’s secretary-general, Prommin Lertsuridej, to hold talks with leaders of the armed forces to ask them to defer their arms procurements for the 2024 fiscal year for the time being. Continued …

Thailand Eyes Leadership in Growing Halal and Future Food Industries

In response to the surging global demand for Halal products and the dynamic landscape of future foods, Thailand is strategically positioning itself as a central figure in these rapidly evolving sectors.

The Thai government has identified the food industry as a pivotal driver of economic stability and is ramping up efforts to harness its potential. Halal products, spanning a wide array of offerings such as finance, food, fashion, media, medicine, and tourism, have been experiencing impressive growth, boasting a remarkable 7.5% increase. This burgeoning industry carries an estimated value of approximately 2 trillion U.S. dollars. Continued …

Chinese EV makers ramp up promotions in Thailand

The popularity of electric cars in Thailand continues to rise, as evidenced by the significant increase in registered vehicles. This growth can be attributed to various factors, mainly driven by government support measures that have made electric cars more affordable.

As the deadline for government incentives at year-end approaches, each automaker is making considerable efforts to introduce new models and promotional campaigns to reduce prices. Continued …

Thailand Wrestles with the Ripple Effects of Cannabis Decriminalization

As the fragrant tendrils of cannabis intertwine with the spicy scents of Thailand’s famed street markets, the nation finds itself entwined in a knotty debate over the recent decriminalization of the much-maligned plant.

Only a year since the momentous shift in drug policy, the lush landscapes of Thailand have seen a “green rush” of cannabis dispensaries emerging like mushrooms in the monsoon season, their roots entwining with the local economies of cities and townships throughout the kingdom. The landscape is transformed, with farmers pivoting from traditional crops to cultivating cannabis and entrepreneurs like Wassaya Iemvijan and Nitikrist Attakrist, former lawyers turned cannabis dispensary owners, navigating the turbid waters of a nascent industry. Continued …

Flights from China to Thailand almost full amid visa waivers

Flights from China to Thailand have been more than 90% full, Thai Airways International says, after Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy temporarily relaxed visa rules for visitors.

“We have seen significant growth in terms of Chinese traffic into Thailand,” the carrier’s Chief Commercial Officer Korakot Chatasingha said in an interview on Monday. Continued …

September tourist arrivals in Phuket drop to 2023 low

The month of September saw a massive drop off of tourism arrivals into Phuket, especially Chinese visitors. September, reliably the lowest month for tourism on the island, delivered a 242,780 visitors compared with 309,253 the month before.

Total Chinese visitation dropped from 64,674 to 37,343, comparing August to September. Continued …

How Thai Food Became A Worldwide Favorite

The global appeal of Thai cuisine is a captivating tale of rich flavors, diversity, and brilliant marketing. Its passage from humble, indigenous beginnings to becoming a worldwide phenomenon is a testament to its unique blend of ingredients, gastronomic techniques, and the concerted efforts of the government.

The history of Thai cuisine is deeply intertwined with the nation’s cultural, geographic, and historical dynamics. Rooted in the traditions of Thailand, formerly known as Siam, Thai cuisine has evolved over centuries, incorporating influences from neighboring countries such as China, India, and Indonesia. This fusion of flavors and cooking methods laid the foundation for what the rest of the world now knows and loves as Thai cuisine. Continued …

Shining a light on Phitsanulok, Thailand’s hidden vintage gem

Hidden in the shadow of the World Heritage site next door, Phitsanulok is a five-hour drive north from Bangkok, a short plane trip or a wonderfully scenic train ride through sleepy stations and countryside.

This beautiful historic city tends to be ignored by travelers heading to UNESCO-listed Sukhothai, Siam’s first capital and a major magnet for both Thai and foreign tourists. But those who do stop here are rewarded with sights and sounds of one of Thailand’s oldest cities, complete with palaces and ancient religious sites which can easily be explored in a day. Continued …

Top Temples to Visit in Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is home to some of the most stunning temples in the world. The country’s religion is predominantly Buddhism, and these temples serve as important spiritual and cultural landmarks. However, despite people’s religious backgrounds, they must not miss the opportunity to visit these beautiful temples during their stay in Bangkok.

The intricate architecture and exquisite craftsmanship found in these temples are a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Thailand. Exploring these sacred sites offers a unique insight into the spiritual practices and beliefs of the Thai people, making it an enriching experience for travelers of all backgrounds. Continued …

6 reasons why you should head back to Ayutthaya

The city may be known for the nation’s grand historic battle, elephant rides, and picturesque sceneries, but when it comes to food, Ayutthaya promises a gastronomic journey that is equally tasteful and wholesome to any other food destinations in Thailand. Here’s what to eat in Ayutthaya’s at the city’s best and coolest spots.

You may think that Ayutthaya’s charm is only limited to seeing temple ruins and witnessing historical buildings. But in reality, the place has seen a more vibrant scene of new cafes, restaurants, and bars. Bookmark these spots for dining out after your temple trips. Continued …

Hungarian, US scientists win medicine Nobel for Covid-19 vaccine work

Two scientists won the Nobel Prize in medicine on Monday for discoveries that enabled the creation of mRNA vaccines against Covid-19 that were critical in slowing the pandemic. And the technology could be used in the future to develop shots against other diseases like cancer and lupus. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets