All posts by Hua Hin Expat News

Food Carnival at Market Village through April 16/
Old Days Festival at Bluport this weekend/
Hua Hin Red Cross Fair starts Friday/
Choking Chiang Rai locals protest as PM2.5 soars to 11 times safe level/
Return of Russian, Chinese buyers sparks Phuket real estate boom/
Report: People in Thailand spend too much time on their backsides/
Thai beer crusader faces 750K baht fine for posts about craft brewing/
PTT Oil and Retail plans 500 new EV charging stations/
Amcham scholarship applications open/
Rajanee Sripaipan: Physician treats children — and their children/
Tourism: TAT raises expectations for Chinese visitors this year/Bangkok governor bans alcohol, water guns, powder during Songkran/Improved language skills needed to boost medical hub goals/Foreign tourists attack restaurant staff in Payong/Police in Bangkok Warn of Pickpockets at Popular Markets/Foreign thieves preying on tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport arrested/Indian man overstays visa in Thailand by 2,048 days/
International: In inflation-hit Germany, massive strike over pay to cripple transport/Ukraine gets new heavy tanks, Russia doubles down on nuke plans/Europe’s biggest economy moves closer to weed legalization/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin Red Cross Fair starts Friday

The Red Cross Festival returns March 31-April 9 on Soi 102 behind BluPort Hua Hin. The event features numerous food booths, OTOP shops, entertainment, games and entertainment.

Proceeds go to helping the poor, the handicapped and the underprivileged.

Choking Chiang Rai locals protest as PM2.5 soars to 11 times safe level

Northern Thailand once again topped the world pollution rankings on Monday, with Chiang Mai registering a high of 287 micrograms of PM2.5 dust per cubic meter (μg/m3) but Chiang Rai hitting 542 μg/m3.

Chiang Mai retained its No 1 spot as the world’s most polluted city on the IQAir global index, which does not feature Chiang Rai. Thailand’s safe limit for PM2.5 – fine-dust pollution linked with early death from heart and/or lung conditions – is 50μg/m3. Continued …

Return of Russian, Chinese buyers sparks Phuket real estate boom

Independent real estate agent and consultancy Knight Frank sees strong demand for property in Phuket, due to the return of Russian and Chinese buyers, driving prices up by 15%-20% in some areas.

Nattha Kahapana, managing director of Knight Frank Thailand, said at a press briefing on Monday titled “Knight Frank Foresight 2023: It’s time to look beyond the crisis” that the return of demand was clearly seen during the fourth quarter of last year. Continued …

Report: People in Thailand spend too much time on their backsides

People in Thailand spend too much time sitting on their backsides, a new study reveals.

The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) revealed that 76% of Thai people spend seven hours or more sitting down, underlining the need for the nation’s population to get off their arses and engage in more physical activity to improve their health and well-being. Continued …

Thai beer crusader faces 750K baht fine for posts about craft brewing

A Thai advocate for reforming alcohol laws faces prosecution and hefty fines for posting photos of craft beer in recent years.

One week after Thanakorn “Benz” Tuamsa-ngiam hosted a large gathering of like-minded beer fans, the activist has been charged with illegally promoting alcohol via his online community for Prachachon Beer (“Beer People”). He now faces a fine of at least THB750,000 (US$22,000). Continued …

PTT Oil and Retail plans 500 new EV charging stations

Oil and gas retailer PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc on Monday said it plans to invest $900 million this year to expand its local and overseas business.

PTT Oil and Retail, a unit of the state-owned energy giant PTT Plc, said 22% of the budget would be used to expand its network of gas and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Continued …

Amcham scholarship applications open

The American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand Foundation (ATF) is now accepting applications for its 2023 scholarship program.

Each year, the ATF selects deserving Thai university students to complete their studies through targeted scholarships. This year, the foundation aims to provide 85 scholarships to deserving students and expand the program to include vocational colleges. Continued …

Rajanee Sripaipan: Physician treats children — and their children

Dr. Rajanee Sripaipan has been a pediatrician in the Copper Country for nearly 50 years. She treats sniffles, saves little lives, and everything in between.

Sripaipan hails originally from Bangkok, Thailand. After receiving her medical degree from Mahidol University Faculty of Medicine there, she came to the United States to do an internship at Highland Park General Hospital in suburban Detroit and a residency in pediatrics at Children’s Hospital of Michigan. Continued …

TAT raises expectations for Chinese visitors this year

The target for inbound Chinese tourists this year has been upgraded to 6-7 million from 5 million, with more than 250,000 of them scheduled to visit Thailand in April, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Tanes Petsuwan, TAT deputy governor for Asia and the South Pacific, said the Chinese market has grown every month since the mainland lifted travel restrictions in January. Continued …

Bangkok governor bans alcohol, water guns, powder during Songkran

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt said preparations are underway to celebrate Songkran next month, but a quadruple ban is being imposed, including no sale and consumption of alcohol, using high-pressure water guns, smearing powder and wearing revealing clothes.

Speaking after chairing the executive board meeting on the upcoming traditional Thai New Year festival, Chadchart said events are being held at the City Hall square during April 12-14. Continued …

Improved language skills needed to boost medical hub goals

Thailand’s wellness and medical sector is already at a phenomenon level; all it needs is to develop skilled medical professionals with language capabilities, said Timothy Lertsmitivanta, the chief executive officer of Thonburi Wellbeing Co.

“Thailand is very well known for hospitality, and it has established a medical hub in Asia and is leading the way in Southeast Asia,” he said. “We already have strength in hospitality tourism and wellness.” Continued …

Foreign tourists attack restaurant staff in Payong

A group of foreign tourists is being sought by the police after they assaulted staff at a restaurant in Soi San Sabai around 1am this morning. According to reports, the tourists, who are believed to be Jordanians and at least one Egyptian, were drunk, agitated and unruly when they were asked to queue properly.

They started throwing water bottles and attacked Thai staff before fleeing the scene. Continued …

Police in Bangkok Warn of Pickpockets at Popular Markets

Police in Bangkok visited the Chatuchak Market this past weekend to ensure tourist safety after many tourists reported that items were stolen from their bags by clever pickpockets.

The Bangsue Police led by Police Chief Col. Puwadon Ounpoe said the inspection came after recently there had been many reports of thieves stealing from tourists’ bags by cutting them loose or pickpocketing while the tourists were shopping in the market and nearby, especially foreign tourists. Continued …

Foreign thieves preying on tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport arrested

The director of Suvarnabhumi Airport, along with airport and tourist police, have announced the arrest of three members of a Mongolian gang preying on foreign and Thai tourists at the airport. There are many victims of the gang and several gang members are still at large.

The traveling public has been warned about taking care with their possessions as security is stepped up at Thailand’s largest airport. Continued …

Indian man overstays visa in Thailand by 2,048 days

Immigration police arrested an Indian national in Chon Buri province, eastern Thailand, found to have overstayed his visa by 2,048 days (more than five and a half years). Police believe he is part of a call center gang.

The police stopped 38-year-old Jatinder Singh – who resides in the Na Jomtien area of Sattahip district – outside of the Ocean Marina Yacht Club and asked to see his passport, but Singh said he had lost it. Continued …

In inflation-hit Germany, massive strike over pay to cripple transport

A massive strike in Germany was set to begin early Monday, crippling mass transport and airports in one of the biggest walkouts in decades, as Europe’s largest economy reels from soaring inflation. Continued …

Ukraine gets new heavy tanks, Russia doubles down on nuke plans

Germany and Britain have delivered Western heavy tanks to Ukraine, officials said Monday, providing a key infusion of armored firepower that will aid Kyiv’s battle against invading Russian troops. Continued …

Europe’s biggest economyps://www.bangkokpost.com/world/2537335/ukraine-gets-new-heavy-tanks-russia-doubles-down-on-nuke-plans moves closer to weed legalization

Germany could be weeks away from introducing a bill to legalize cannabis under sweeping reforms that would greenlight the consumption and sale of the drug in Europe’s largest economy. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

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Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

90-day online reporting

bangkok, hua hin, immigration, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-March 27

March 27, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Hua Hin Rotary assists local school with health screenings/
Hua Hin Bikini Beach run held Saturday/
Summer storms, high temps forecast in upper Thailand/
Excessive PM2.5 dust in 21 northern and northeastern provinces on Sunday/
Fighting ultra-fine dust/
Thai private sector says 5 urgent economic issues face incoming govt/
Thailand unscathed by Western banking mess/
Chinese Invest in Thailand Real Estate as a Second Home/
Lazada chief sets out growth plans for Thailand/
Sugary drinks tax takes effect April 1/
44th annual Bangkok International Motor Show continues to go electric/
Border crossing reopens in Tak after Myanmar troops repel resistance forces/
Andaman Sea to close on April 1 for three months of spawning season/
Tourism: Thailand plans massive Songkran celebrations as tourism continues to surge/Tempting visitors to find their chi/Traders eye Thai curry drawing card/Phuket’s red card system for foreigners nabs 6/Foreigners record 180 criminal charges this year in Phuket/7,600 Russians seek to extend Phuket stay/
Thailand Experience: Ethical Wildlife Tourism: 10 Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand/The hidden pluses of Thai food/Mistakes Everyone Makes When Ordering Thai Food/The Complex Political History Behind The Standardization Of Thai Menus/China’s Mekong dams turn Thai fishing villages into ‘ghost towns’/
International: Deutsche Bank shares plummet, fueling fears/Putin says Moscow to place nuclear weapons in Belarus/Afghan girls go online to study/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin Rotary assists local school with health screenings

The Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin has a long-established close relationship with the Anuban Ban Nongkhon School, around 10 kilometers from central Hua Hin. That location falls just outside the Hua Hin municipality “funding zone”, which means securing funding and access to many vital services is often difficult.

During the past weekend, the focus of a project based at the school and coordinated by Rotary has provided family members of the school community with access to important health assessments. Continued …

Hua Hin Bikini Beach run held Saturday

The Hua Hin Bikini Beach Run was held on Khao Takiab beach Saturday evening, attracting several hundred runners in distances of 3km or 5km. Hua Hin-based runners Lewis Chalk and Pla Kitsanee finished first in the men’s and women’s 5km races, respectively. (HHT)

Summer storms, high temps forecast in upper Thailand

Summer storms with gusty winds and hail are expected in the upper part of the country from March 27-29, beginning with the Northeast and then the Eastern, lower Northern and Central regions, weather forecasters said on Sunday morning.

A moderate high-pressure system now covering upper Vietnam, upper Laos and the South China Sea was expected to move over the Northeast of Thailand on Sunday, with southerly and southeasterly winds prevailing over upper Thailand, according to the Meteorological Department’s forecast on Sunday. Continued …

Excessive PM2.5 dust in 21 northern and northeastern provinces on Sunday

The level of PM2.5 dust in 21 northern and northeastern provinces in the past 24 hours exceeded Thailand’s 50-micron safety level, with the PM2.5 in northern provinces being measured from 37 microns to 459 microns, the Center for Air Pollution Mitigation reported yesterday.

The air quality in the rest of the country is, however, within safety limits, including Bangkok and its suburbs, where it was measured from 16-46 microns in the past 24 hours. Continued …

Fighting ultra-fine dust

Fine dust is back. It accumulates, covering parts of the city and many provinces. Individuals have been exposed to unhealthy levels of tiny air pollutants, known as PM 2.5, with sensitive people who suffer from breathing issues, heart and lung conditions, children, the elderly, and pregnant women the most affected. They are urged to be vigilant about the air quality and take precautionary steps to keep themselves safe from the harmful effects of the toxic airborne particles.

“I check the levels of harmful dust matter every day. If the air quality is bad, I don’t go out. It’s been very hard for me to breathe lately,” said Worawan Krueck, 48, who has asthma. Continued …

Thai private sector says 5 urgent economic issues face incoming govt

Five pressing issues with the largest impact on the country and the economy’s development must be tackled as soon as the next government forms, the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) warned on Sunday. The five urgent issues are:

Economic recovery in the post-Covid era. For this, the government must quickly set a GDP target of at least 5%, upgrade agriculture with modern technology, continue the digital government project, link logistics and transport infrastructure to boost trade and investment, and manage energy costs to minimize impact on costs for the public and businesses. Continued …

Thailand unscathed by Western banking mess

Most economists from the public and private sectors expect the ongoing U.S. and European banking crisis to have a limited effect on the Thai banking sector thanks to the solid fundamentals of local banks and the strong supervision of the Bank of Thailand.

Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith last week insisted Thai financial institutions will not be affected by the banking debacle in the U.S. and Europe as local organizations have little exposure to such banks. Continued …

Chinese Invest in Thailand Real Estate as a Second Home

Several local media outlets reported on the growing trend of foreign ownership of Thai real estate in several provinces, such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya (Chon Buri) and Koh Samui (Surat Thani) in the form of nominees, especially after COVID-19.

The public was even more shocked to learn that many Chinese investors have invested in housing estates in Chiang Mai, especially in Hang Dong, San Kamphaeng and San Sai districts, turning them into Chinese communities. Continued …

Lazada chief sets out growth plans for Thailand

We want to be “customer obsessed” rather than “competition obsessed”, according to the priority outlined by Lazada Thailand Chief Executive Werapong Goo.

“Lazada has been around for an amazing 11 years and we look forward to the next decade. We have always pursued growth at our own pace, which has enabled us to weather industry headwinds and continue to steadily accelerate the advancement of e-commerce in Thailand,” he said. Continued …

Sugary drinks tax takes effect April 1

The third stage of the excise tax hike for sugar-sweetened beverages comes into effect on April 1 after a six-month government postponement expires.

Nutthakorn Utensute, the Excise Department’s principal adviser on excise control system development, says the tax hike based on sugar content will not increase costs for manufacturers of sugary drinks or consumers, as producers have already adjusted their recipes to avoid the tax. Continued …

44th annual Bangkok International Motor Show continues to go electric

Auto sales at this year’s Bangkok International Motor Show could rise by 15%-20% thanks to the easing of Covid-19 measures, recovery of the local auto industry, as well as the introduction of several new EV models. Continued …

Border crossing reopens in Tak after Myanmar troops repel resistance forces

The Thai-Myanmar border checkpoint in Tak province’s Mae Sot district reopened on Sunday after Myanmar troops regained control of Myawaddy township.

On Saturday, the immigration checkpoint located at the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Ban Rim Moei village was shut following heavy fighting, as Myanmar soldiers battled Karan troops and members of the People’s Defense Force (PDF). Continued …

Andaman Sea to close on April 1 for three months of spawning season

Annual fishing restrictions will be imposed off Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi and Trang on the Andaman coast from April 1 to June 30 to allow stocks to recover. The fishing ban covers an area of 4,696sqkm, spanning Cape Panwa in Phuket province to Laem Yong Star in Trang province.

The Department of Fisheries said on Sunday that the sea is not blocked to all fishing activity, adding that villagers are allowed to catch fish provided their boats are less than 10 gross tonnage in size with engines less than 280 horsepower. Continued …

Thailand plans massive Songkran celebrations as tourism continues to surge

Massive Songkran festivals will be held across Thailand in April to further stimulate the resurgent tourism industry, government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said on Sunday.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand already expects a big bounce from this year’s Songkran festival due to the faster-than-expected recovery in the tourism market and will organize major festivals in five regions of the country, Anucha said. Continued …

Tempting visitors to find their chi

As fears of Covid-19 infections die down in parallel with new cases declining globally, medical and wellness tourism is predicted to keep growing at a steady pace.

This month at ITB Berlin 2023, the biggest travel show in Europe, for the first time the organizer dedicated a hall for medical and health tourism, with participants including hospitals, hotels and destinations around the world. Continued …

Traders eye Thai curry drawing card

The inclusion of phanaeng curry at the top of the list of the “100 Best-Rated Stews in the World” provides food vendors and the tourism industry with optimism in the hope this will attract more tourists.

TasteAtlas, a global food mapping site for local dishes, named phanaeng curry the best curry in the world on March 13, drawing much public and press attention. Continued …

Phuket’s red card system for foreigners nabs 6

Phuket Immigration has announced those punished with its new yellow card and red card system for misbehaving foreigners. The new trial system was established to combat claims that law-breaking foreigners didn’t know the rules so, much like a football game, Phuket Immigration has implemented a yellow and red card system as a warning system.

If a foreigner commits an offense for the first time, they will receive a yellow card, and their behavior will be reported to consulates. If they repeat the offense, they will receive a red card and their visa will be withdrawn, and they will be deported. Information was typically vague as to what offenses and actions could earn these cards. Continued …

Foreigners record 180 criminal charges this year in Phuket

Phuket has seen a huge surge in formal criminal charges against foreigners this year, with over 180 cases recorded since January. Among the top three nationalities involved in these cases are Russians, French and British.

Phuket police are taking a low-tolerance attitude toward tourists and longer-stay foreigners behaving badly this year, including the introduction of the red and yellow card penalty system. Continued …

7,600 Russians seek to extend Phuket stay

Nearly 7,600 Russian nationals have sought to extend the length of their stay in Phuket, according to the local immigration chief.

“Phuket is a nice place to visit, with delicious food and good weather. As word has spread about the island, Russian tourists keep coming to the province,” said Police Col. Thanet Sukchai, superintendent of Phuket immigration office. Continued …

Ethical Wildlife Tourism: 10 Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand

Thailand is best known for its tropical beaches, lavish royal palaces, ancient ruins, and beautifully decorated temples. The Land of Smiles also offers amazing wildlife encounters, making it a popular destination for animal tourists.

From dolphins, sharks, and whales, to tigers, turtles, and even elephants, Thailand is filled with magical biodiversity, where tourists worldwide can have a safari-style experience.

Ethical animal tourism simply means observing animals in their natural habitat, i.e., from afar. So how will you know whether the sanctuary is ethical? Continued …

The hidden pluses of Thai food

Thais have every reason to celebrate with regard to a new culinary milestone, phanaeng, which has been awarded the No.1 stew ranking by TasteAtlas, a global food mapping site.

Coming second and third on the TasteAtlas chart, compiled based on reviews by food professionals and critics worldwide, are kare, a Japanese-style curry, and sichuan mala, a spicy Chinese soup.

By making the ranking, phanaeng has effectively joined other world-famous dishes such as tomyam kung and tom kha gai chicken soup, green and massaman curry. Continued …

Mistakes Everyone Makes When Ordering Thai Food

Thai food is popular with food enthusiasts around the globe for its unique blend of flavors, textures, and aromas. Due to the country’s geography, history, and cultural influences, Thai cuisine is also extremely varied.

For example, the gastronomic scene in northern Thailand is heavily influenced by China and Myanmar, making it somewhat milder than the spicier southern dishes. Meanwhile, the cuisine in the southwestern part of the country has a lot in common with Malay and Javan epicurean creations, which both utilize a lot of coconut milk. Continued …

The Complex Political History Behind The Standardization Of Thai Menus

Culture is more than just food, of course, but food often tops the list of easy entry points when discussing cultural differences or similarities. Our ideas of which foods belong to different cultures, however, have as much history and politics wrapped up in them as the foods themselves.

Thai cuisine illustrates the point. In America, travelers can practically count on a Thai restaurant in every city. These restaurants often serve familiar and comforting staples like green curry and pad Thai with the same reliability as your favorite diner or chain restaurant. The reason for that may be tied to the ways the Thai government has seen food as a way to raise its diplomatic profile, among other things. Continued …

China’s Mekong dams turn Thai fishing villages into ‘ghost towns’

From February to April each year, Kam Thon spends most of her days knee-deep in the waters of the Mekong River by her village in northern Thailand, gathering river weed to sell and cook at home.

Kam Thon and other women who live by the Mekong have been collecting river weed, or khai, for decades, but their harvest has fallen since China built nearly a dozen dams upstream.

The dams have altered the flow of water and block much of the sediment that is vital for khai and rice cultivation, researchers say. Continued …

Deutsche Bank shares plummet, fueling fears

Shares in Deutsche Bank fell heavily Friday on the lender’s surging cost of default cover, reigniting fears about a widening banking sector crisis. Continued …

Putin says Moscow to place nuclear weapons in Belarus

Russia will station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday, sending a warning to NATO over its military support for Ukraine and escalating a standoff with the West. Continued …

Afghan girls go online to study

Every other day, Sofia logs in from her Kabul home for an online English course run by one of a growing number of educational institutes trying to reach Afghanistan’s girls and women who can’t go to school and continue their education due to the Taliban administration’s restrictions on women. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

90-day online reporting

hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-March 25

March 25, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule through October/
Warmer summer this year after protracted cool season/
Fumes from forest fires blanket Mae Hong Son in dangerous, blinding haze/
Chiang Rai closes national park as fires from Laos ravage forest/
Italian businessman on motorcycle taxi impaled by forklift/
80-year-old woman survives floating 3 kilometers down Nan River/
Japan voted top sustainable country, Thailand ranked fifth/
Thailand now world’s 4th biggest exporter of pet food/
Tourism: Russians top list of crimes by foreigners in Phuket/Fake news and disinformation being stoked in China against visiting Thailand/Robust Phuket tourism numbers in Q4 2022 to lead to recovery by year-end/Tourism to keep Phuket property market hot for years/THAI cancels flights to Frankfurt and Munich from March 26-27/
International: Cat slaughterhouse shut down in Vietnam, 197 cats saved/Humanity must chart new course on water use: UN chief/14 dead in US strikes on Syria after drone kills American contractor/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

Warmer summer this year after protracted cool season

The temperature will be 1 degree Celsius higher on average this summer than last year, according to the Meteorological Department.

Department Director-general Chomparee Chompurat said the hottest weather this week was detected in the North, in Phetchabun’s Muang district, where it peaked at 41.5°C on Thursday. Closer to Bangkok, the highest temperature was recorded in Pathum Thani’s Khlong Luang district, at 38.5°C. Continued …

Fumes from forest fires blanket Mae Hong Son in dangerous, blinding haze

Following days of hundreds of forest fires, visibility in Mae Hong Son province fell to 1.5 kilometers on Friday while PM2.5 air pollution rose to more than four times the safe level – 211 micrograms per cubic meter of air, officials said.

Satellite photos showed 197 fires in the province on Friday, down from 460 on Thursday, according to the Mae Hong Son center for operations to contain forest fires and PM2.5. Although the number of fires fell, air pollution worsened due to the accumulation of fumes. Continued …

Chiang Rai closes national park as fires from Laos ravage forest

Phu Chi Fa National Park in Chiang Rai has been closed to tourists after being ravaged by a forest fire that spread over the border from Laos.

Park chief Witthaya Buaphol issued the announcement on Thursday, saying the park in the northern province’s Thoeng district bordering Laos is closed to visitors until further notice. Continued …

Italian businessman on motorcycle taxi impaled by forklift

An Italian man died this morning after he was impaled by a forklift in Samut Prakan province, just south of Bangkok in central Thailand, near the factory where he worked as sales manager. He was riding a motorbike taxi when the incident happened.

At 10am, officers at Samrong Nuea Police Station were informed of a fatal collision between a motorcycle taxi and forklift at Soi Theparak 58 in Mueang district. Police rushed to the scene with Ruamkatanyu Foundation rescue workers. Continued …

80-year-old woman survives floating 3 kilometers down Nan River

An 80-year-old Thai woman fell into the Nan River in Pichit province, northern Thailand, and floated for 3 kilometers before she was rescued by a good Samaritan yesterday.

At 4pm, 61-year-old Bancha Simadua, the owner of a paint shop, was fishing in the Nan River near Wat Ratchachang Kwan when he suddenly saw a naked body float past him, which he assumed was a corpse. Continued …

Japan voted top sustainable country, Thailand ranked fifth

Japan has been praised by fellow Asian countries for its sustainability and conservation efforts in a new poll, with Thailand claiming fifth place.

Over 13,000 respondents from more than 10 countries participated in the Sustainable Impact Survey 2023 conducted by the online travel agency Agoda. The respondents were asked to rank countries based on their sustainability efforts, and they ranked their home countries highly for their conservation measures. Seven out of 11 markets gave their own country the highest rating, including Thailand, India, Vietnam, Australia, Korea, Indonesia, and Japan. Continued …

Thailand now world’s 4th biggest exporter of pet food

Thailand is now the No. 1 exporter of pet foods in ASEAN and the fourth-largest in the world after seeing 15% growth last year, said the Commerce Ministry on Friday.

The world’s top pet food exporter is the European Union, followed by the United States and China. Continued …

Russians top list of crimes by foreigners in Phuket

More than 180 foreigners have faced criminal charges in Phuket since the start of the year, with the top three offenders being nationals from Russia, France and the United Kingdom.

Phuket Gov. Narong Woonciew chaired an executive meeting with government agencies and consul-generals from 23 countries on Thursday to update them on cases involving foreigners on the island. Continued …

Fake news and disinformation being stoked in China against visiting Thailand

Thai officials in Bangkok and Beijing were scrambling on Thursday and Friday to contain a highly damaging viral campaign on Chinese social media actively discouraging people from visiting the kingdom. The sensational and outright false claims targeted potential Chinese holidaymakers.

They were warned of scams and being extorted by criminal gangs preying on unsuspecting visitors, with the widely debunked conspiracy theories of tourists being captured and subjected to organ harvesting being raised to scare off potential travelers to the kingdom, which has emerged as China’s favorite holiday destination now that the pandemic has finally ended there. Continued …

Robust Phuket tourism numbers in Q4 2022 to lead to recovery by year-end

Thailand’s leading resort island of Phuket’s post-pandemic tourism recovery has been headlined by a surge in Russian travelers in the high season. But the back story is how a spike in regional visitors from India, Malaysia, and Singapore set the stage in Q4 of last year that pushed hotels and the service sector back into action.

Data on Phuket hotel performance in C9 Hotelworks’ newly released Phuket Hotel Market Update 2023 shows how the industry escalated after Thailand lifted travel restrictions at the beginning of October 2022. The influx of tourists propelled market-wide occupancy for the year to 48%, up year-on-year from a COVID-19-impacted low of 8% in 2021. Continued …

Tourism to keep Phuket property market hot for years

The Phuket property market surge is expected to continue for at least two more years, buoyed by the strong growth of the tourism sector.

Phattanan Phisutvimol, president of the Phuket Real Estate Assn., said the key driver for the property market rebound was foreign buyers, particularly Russians fleeing the war and Germans escaping the energy crisis. Continued …

THAI cancels flights to Frankfurt and Munich from March 26-27

THAI Airways International has canceled flights to Frankfurt and Munich on March 26-27 due to the mass transit labor strikes in Germany.

Passengers booked on these flights should visit thaiairways.com for updates or call (66)23561111 for the THAI Contact Center (open 24 hours). Continued …

Cat slaughterhouse shut down in Vietnam, 197 cats saved

An industrial-scale cat slaughterhouse in the Dong Thap province of Vietnam, capable of slaughtering up to 500 cats a day, has ceased all operations following landmark intervention from the authorities. Continued …

Humanity must chart new course on water use: UN chief

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday delivered an urgent call for the world to modify and safeguard water resources to avert conflict and ensure future global prosperity. Continued …

14 dead in US strikes on Syria after drone kills American contractor

Fourteen pro-Iran fighters were killed in U.S. air strikes on Syria carried out in retaliation for a drone attack that killed an American and wounded six others, a war monitor said Friday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-March 24

March 24, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Hua Hin-PKK double-track rail to open next year/
Officials warn of 100,000-baht fine for smoking on Hua Hin beach/
Thailand Privilege Card to hold free networking and golf event in Hua Hin/
Your 20-baht note may be worth 3000 baht/
Chinese nationals bought nearly half of condo units sold to foreigners in 2022/
Thai industry group uneasy over banking crisis/
NE Thai company producing floating homes/
Prachinburi locals make 3 demands over radiation fears/
KResearch says global banking crisis will pressure Thai exports/
America’s Globalstar will provide satellite services in Thailand/
2023 technology trends for digital transformation in business/
Thai SEA Games jerseys made with recycled plastic bottles unveiled/
Bangkok halts Bt30-billion Chao Phraya riverfront project/
SPCG expects solar panel revenue to reach Bt1 billion/
Building businesses on the legalization of marijuana in Chiang Mai/
Tourism: Thailand sees 6M foreign tourist arrivals in Q1/TIME Magazine Lists Phuket and Isan Among World’s Greatest Places/Bangkok ranks #5 on Airbnb’s list of top trending global travel spots/Tourist ‘damaged Thai tourism’ by reporting bungee mishap to foreign media/Adang Island in Satun Is Set to Be Developed as World-Class Tourism Destination/AOT Unveils Plan to Expand Don Mueang Airport Terminal for Tourism Boost/U-tapao expansion likely delayed/Thailand’s most beautiful beaches for the beach lover in you/
International: Trade Between China, Mekong Countries Hits $416.7B in 2022/Russian support for Myanmar junta ‘destabilizing’ Southeast Asia: US envoy/How Vietnam is trying to stop rice warming the planet/US state to require parental consent for social media/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Hua Hin-PKK double-track rail to open next year

The double-track railway between Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan stations looks set to be opened next year, as most of the project’s civil engineering work has been completed, according to the State Railway of Thailand.

The tracks are currently undergoing testing to estimate travel times and ensure safe shunting, which has produced satisfactory results so far.

The 84-kilometer-long double-track railway is constructed parallel to the old, single track, which serves the main southern line. The new tracks will pass two bridges, 12 stations, one halt and two container yards, at Sam Roi Yot and Thung Mamao stations. – Bangkok Post

Officials warn of 100,000-baht fine for smoking on Hua Hin beach

Officials have brought their new campaign to discourage smoking to Hua Hin beach, in an effort to keep the area clean and protect public health.

On Thursday, officials visited the beach holding signs warning that anyone found smoking on the beach faces a hefty fine of up to 100,000 THB and/or 1 year in jail.

The “Smoke-free Beach” campaign is being led by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Region 3 (DMCR3), and aims to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking on the beach, both in terms of health and environmental impact. Continued …

Thailand Privilege Card to hold free networking and golf event in Hua Hin

Thailand is a country that attracts many foreigners who want to live, work or retire. However, for some people who want to stay for an extended period of time, the process of obtaining a visa can be complex and time-consuming.

Fortunately, the Thailand Privilege Card – Exclusive Residence Program offers a solution that is both convenient and cost-effective.

To promote this program, a free networking dinner party is being held for foreigners in Hua Hin on March 30 at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, starting at 5pm. Continued …

Your 20-baht note may be worth 3,000 baht

A collector of coins and bank notes went on a Facebook page (By Gig) to advise people to check their 20-baht new plastic bills.

The ones without a strip as shown in the photograph could be worth up to 3,000 baht.

The poster said that since advertising this more than a month ago, no one had come forward but the notes were out there somewhere. Continued …

Chinese nationals bought nearly half of condo units sold to foreigners in 2022

Chinese citizens bought the most number of condominiums in Thailand among foreigners in 2022, the Government Housing Bank’s Real Estate Information Centre (REIC) reported on Thursday.

The ownership of 11,561 condominium units worth 59.26 billion baht were transferred to foreigners last year, the centre said.

Foreign nationals who bought the most number of condominiums last year were: Continued …

Thai industry group uneasy over banking crisis

Domestic car and motorcycle sales may bear the brunt if Thai financial institutions are affected by the risk of failed banks in the U.S. and Europe, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The concern was raised after U.S. and European banking executives and regulators stepped in to save California-based Silicon Valley Bank, New York-based Signature Bank and 167-year-old Credit Suisse in Zurich, Switzerland, from potential crisis.

If the financial turbulence cannot be contained, the global financial system will be affected, which may eventually have a negative impact on Thai banks and non-banks that grant loans to car and motorcycle buyers, said Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the FTI and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club. Continued …

NE Thai company producing floating homes

Business is booming for a Khon Kaen, northeast Thailand, company that is producing made-to order-floating homes. The media called them Hobbit houses. The floating homes and larger restaurants known as “phae” in Thai are proving popular with both Thais and foreigners. (Thai Rath)

Prachinburi locals make 3 demands over radiation fears

Locals living around the recycling plant in Prachinburi where a stolen cylinder of Cesium-137 is believed to have been melted down have raised white flags in a plea for government action.

Authorities have declined to name the facility where radiation was detected and insist there has been no contamination of the surrounding environment.

However, the location of the plant became obvious when officials from the Office of Atoms for Peace (OAP) cordoned off the KPP Steel Co. recycling facility in Moo 6, Tambon Haad Nang Kaew in Kabin Buri. Continued …

KResearch says global banking crisis will pressure Thai exports

Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch) maintains Thailand’s 2023 GDP growth projection at 3.7 %. However, its Thai export growth forecast has been downgraded to -1.2 % from the previous -0.5 %.

Meanwhile, tourism will see a brighter outlook, with a clear recovery of foreign tourist arrivals expected in 1Q23.

In KResearch’s view, the recent problems faced by some Western banks will have limited impact on Thailand. Continued …

America’s Globalstar will provide satellite services in Thailand

Low earth orbit satellite operator Globalstar of the U.S. has won approval from Thailand’s regulators to provide satellite services in the Kingdom in partnership with local satellite firm Thaicom, the company announced last week.

Aside from the low earth orbit (LEO) satellite services, Louisiana-based Globalstar will also be permitted to build and operate a ground tracking station at Thaicom’s Teleport Center in Pathum Thani province, north of Bangkok.

Thailand has had a presence in space since the early 1990s. At that time, the Kingdom started purchasing, deploying and operating satellites with private-sector companies such as Thaicom taking the lead. Continued …

2023 technology trends for digital transformation in business

As 2023 gets into full swing, enterprise cloud solution providers are looking to expand their focus to business buyers, not just IT/development teams.

As Gartner notes in its Top Strategic Technology Trends for 2023 presentation, given by Gartner analysts at its 2022 IT symposia globally, “senior IT and business leaders need to prepare to optimize, scale, or pioneer:

To optimize resilience, operations or trust
To scale your vertical solutions, product delivery, or … everywhere Continued …

Thai SEA Games jerseys made with recycled plastic bottles unveiled

Thailand’s official SEA Games jersey maker Grand Sport has released the collection of kits that Thai athletes would wear when competing at the upcoming SEA Games 2023.

The company’s managing director, Thiti Pluckchaoom, said that the jerseys for the 2023 SEA Games were designed with a contemporary style, under the concept of “Beyond The Spirit, Beyond Sportswear”.

Thiti said the collar shirts in this set were made using recycled plastic bottles to mitigate waste and raise awareness about global warming. Continued …

Bangkok halts Bt30-billion Chao Phraya riverfront project

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt announced that he would stop the “Chao Phraya walkway riverfront” project proposed by the Prayut Chan-o-cha government. He added that the project was not worth it and did not meet the needs of the people.

After the Thai Administrative Court ruled on March 22, 2023, to stop the construction of the Chao Phraya walkway, adding that the panel of defendants should adjust four points, Bangkok Deputy Gov. Wisanu Subsompon said the Bangkok municipality, which is one of the defendants, will accept the ruling and will not appeal.

However, as this project is part of a government policy, the government policy must be taken into account if the project is to be continued or canceled. Continued …

SPCG expects solar panel revenue to reach Bt1 billion

Costly electricity bills are expected to cause more households and businesses to use renewable energy by installing rooftop solar panels, says SET-listed SPCG, a pioneer in solar farm development in Thailand.

The power tariff, which is used to calculate electricity bills for households, is likely to increase to 4.77 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit) between May and August, up from the previous record high of 4.72 baht per unit, according to the Energy Regulatory Commission.

Businesses will also pay 4.77 baht per unit, down from 5.33 baht per unit, applicable from January to April this year. Continued …

Building businesses on the legalization of marijuana in Chiang Mai

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has had a long history in Thailand. Traditionally, the plant was used by locals in their food and medicine.

But in 1935, using marijuana — whether as a drug or otherwise — was criminalized. And until last year, anyone using or possessing marijuana could face five years in prison, and a fine of up to 100,000 Thai baht, or $2,900.

In the late 2010s, the Thai government appeared to soften its stance toward marijuana. It was approved for medicinal use in 2019. Just two years later, those with a license could use and grow the plant. Continued …

Thailand sees 6M foreign tourist arrivals in Q1

The government expects there to be about 6 million foreign tourist arrivals in the first quarter of the year, as the vital tourism sector gathered momentum, an official said today.

The country is forecasting between 25 million to 30 million foreign tourists this year, with spending of 1.5 trillion baht, government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said in a statement. – Bangkok Post

TIME Magazine Lists Phuket and Isan Among World’s Greatest Places

Phuket and the Nnortheastern provinces of Thailand have been included on the TIME magazine’s list of “The World’s Greatest Places of 2023”.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the list, which showcases 50 extraordinary destinations to explore, describes Phuket as one of Thailand’s most visited places and is known for its famed beaches. Phuket has increased its family appeal with the grand opening of Carnival Magic, a culturally focused theme park last September. The island province is also drawing more visitors to its uncrowded countryside with an impressive landscape of modern luxury lodges.

The TIME list mentions Isan for the region’s diverse and delicious culinary options. It also mentions that those who venture to this off-the-beaten-path region of Thailand teeming with rice fields are rewarded with national parks, temple ruins, and Michelin-recommended restaurants. Last year marked the 60th anniversary of Thailand’s first national park, Khao Yai, which sits largely in Nakhon Ratchasima province and is home to elephants, gibbons, and Asian black bears. Continued …

Bangkok ranks #5 on Airbnb’s list of top trending global travel spots

Latest data from Airbnb reveals that as travel continues to recover post-pandemic, nights booked in Thailand on Airbnb more than doubled last year from 2020, with international travel leading the way and Bangkok emerging as a top destination of choice for global travelers on Airbnb.

The popular capital city emerged as the #1 trending destination globally for Airbnb guests in Q3 last year and #5 on Airbnb’s list of top trending global travel spots in 2023.

This comes as Thailand recently forecast that 25-30 million travelers will visit this year – a strong indication of tourism recovery in the country, and up from 11 million international visitors last year. Continued …

Tourist ‘damaged Thai tourism’ by reporting bungee mishap to foreign media

The Hong Kong tourist who went to the media in his homeland after a bungee cord broke in Pattaya has been accused of damaging Thai tourism.

The accident occurred on Feb. 24 but has only just come to light.

Yesterday, representatives from the Chonburi tourism office, civil engineers and the Pattaya tourist police finally went to investigate. Continued …

Adang Island in Satun Is Set to Be Developed as World-Class Tourism Destination

Ko Adang, or Adang Island, in the southern border province of Satun, is set to be developed as a world-class tourism destination, like Langkawi in Malaysia, according to the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC).

The SBPAC held a meeting recently to discuss ways to upgrade and develop tourism in Satun, which is famous for its pristine nature spreading over jungles, mountains, and beaches.

SBPAC Deputy Secretary-General Chanathan Saengphum stated that all relevant agencies would work together in pushing for the development of Adang Island into a major tourism destination in this part of the world within the next five years. Continued …

AOT Unveils Plan to Expand Don Mueang Airport Terminal for Tourism Boost

Following cabinet approval last year, Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) has unveiled its plans to expand Don Mueang International Airport’s low-cost terminal, aiming to increase passenger capacity and boost tourism income for the country.

According to AOT, a budget of 36.8 billion baht has been allocated for the project, which is set to begin this year and be completed by 2029.

The expansion, which includes the construction of 12 aircraft parking stands and 11 jet bridges, will increase the airport’s handling capacity from 30 million to 40 million passengers per year. Continued …

U-tapao expansion likely delayed

U-tapao airport expects a delay to the first phase of its expansion plans, as some conditions have not been approved by authorities, with the carrying capacity reduced to less than 12 million passengers in the initial stages, says U-Tapao International Aviation Co. (UTA).

Anawat Leelawatwatana, senior vice president for finance and accounting at Bangkok Airways and a representative for UTA, said the date for area delivery of construction was supposed to be January 2023, but three major criterion upon issuance of the notice to proceed letter have not been finalized by the government. Continued …

Thailand’s most beautiful beaches for the beach lover in you

View …

Trade Between China, Mekong Countries Hits $416.7B in 2022

Trade between China and countries along the Mekong River posted steady growth last year despite COVID-19 and the sluggish global economy. Thanks to deepened mutual trust and cooperation, China’s trade volume with Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam totaled 416.7 billion U.S. dollars in 2022, up 5% year on year. Continued …

Russian support for Myanmar junta ‘destabilizing’ Southeast Asia: US envoy

Russia’s backing for Myanmar’s military rulers is unacceptable and destabilizing, with its supply of weapons helping to fuel a conflict that has become a catastrophe for the country, a top U.S. official said on Thursday. Continued …

How Vietnam is trying to stop rice warming the planet

As a child, Dong Van Canh watched while the rice fields of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta were set alight to make way for the next crop, blackening the sky and flooding the air with potent greenhouse gases. Continued …

US state to require parental consent for social media

Utah on Thursday became the first U.S. state to require social media sites to get parental consent for accounts used by under-18s, placing the burden on platforms like Instagram and TikTok to verify the age of their users. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-March 23

March 23, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Hua Hin Marathon postponed to June 11/
Prachuap Khiri Run to be held July 16/
Siege in Phetchaburi: Police shoot man dead after he kills 3, injures four/
Massive Indian Scam Syndicate bilked 365 American retirees/
Study finds most Thai youth not developing job skills/
Thai industry group: Emphasize climate-linked areas/
Recovered Caesium-137 cannister ‘not a threat to local Thai produce’/
Van Gogh works to come alive at Bangkok gallery/
Tourism: Over 5.5 million tourists have already visited Thailand this year/Chinese tourists rush to board ‘fashion time machine’ in Chiang Mai/Thailand welcomes Really Cool Airlines/Thailand’s ‘Really Cool Airlines’ may not be a joke, but difficult to take seriously/Bangkok Airways expects profit for 2023/Safari park in Thailand responds to bungee cord incident/
Thailand Experience: A land of giants/Where to find the best food in Phuket/From ancient to modern: The cannabis tale of Thailand/
International: Federal Reserve raises interest rates amid banking turmoil/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Hua Hin Marathon postponed to June 11

The Hua Hin Marathon has been postponed to June 11, race organizers have announced.

The marathon, which is one of the region’s most eagerly anticipated races, has been postponed from its original date of May 14.

May 14 is now the date Thailand will hold the general election. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Run to be held July 16

One of the region’s most eye-catching running events will be held in Prachuap Khiri Khan in July, the provincial administration has announced.

The Tipco Prachuap Khiri Run 2023, which will take place on July 16, will take participants along the stunning Prachuap Bay and the Wing 5 military base.

Runners will have the opportunity to take in the beautiful surroundings, with the route boasting some breathtaking views along the bay and across the runway at the military base. Continued …

Siege in Phetchaburi: Police shoot man dead after he kills 3, injures four

A gunman who killed three people execution-style ahead of his pending court case was shot dead by police after a 15-hour standoff in Phetchaburi province on Thursday morning.

Anuwat Waenthong, 29, launched the attack at 1.30pm in Soi 4 of Krungphet Villa housing estate in the Ton Mamuang neighbourhood, 170 kilometers southwest of Bangkok.

Police said the gunman fired multiple bullets in the area, killing three people, including a motorcycle delivery driver, and injuring four more before taking shelter in a house. Continued …

Massive Indian Scam Syndicate bilked 365 American retirees

Five Indian phone scammers and 15 Thai accomplices were arrested following a major scam bust yesterday across Thailand. The suspects swindled 365 American retirees out of over three billion baht, according to police.

The raids carried out by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), police commandos, and officials from the Anti-Money Laundering Office struck 36 premises in Chonburi, Rayong, Roi Et, and Surat Thani, and resulted in the arrest of over 20 phone scam suspects.

Police Gen. Torsak Sukwimol, deputy national police chief, told a press briefing that the suspects mainly targeted elderly American citizens and had tricked 365 people into transferring them three billion baht. Continued …

Study finds most Thai youth not developing job skills

The rising share of youth who are Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEET) in Thailand represents a concerning social and economic phenomenon.

While nearly 1.4 million (or 15 %) youth aged 15-24 years in Thailand are NEET, a new Unicef-led study released today finds most of them (68 %) lack the motivation to develop skills or work due to a perceived lack of opportunities.

The new study – In-depth Research on Youth Not in Employment, Education or Training in Thailand – is the first in-depth study that provides a comprehensive picture of youth NEET in Thailand. Continued …

Thai industry group: Emphasize climate-linked areas

Despite the country’s dependence on tourism to boost its revenue, Thailand needs to further drive its economy through electric vehicles (EVs) and bio-, circular and green (BCG) economic development amid a rapidly changing world, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The world is increasingly disrupted by high-level digital technology and is adopting more clean energy in an effort to combat climate change.

A new government must be aware of these factors and design policies that match the changing technological, environmental and economic conditions, said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the FTI. Continued …

Recovered Caesium-137 cannister ‘not a threat to local Thai produce’

Thai officials say the recently recovered Caesium-137 canister is not a threat to local produce, despite it being smelted. The concerns over the effects of the tube’s radioactive properties were raised as contaminated furnace dust was discovered at a steel plant in Prachin Buri’s Kabin Buri district this week.

Out of fear, customers canceled purchase orders of fruit from the province, despite authorities insisting that no contamination had been detected within a 5-kilometer radius of the factory.

Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Chalermchai Sri-on said checks for radioactive substances in such products found that radiation levels did not exceed safety limits. Continued …

Van Gogh works to come alive at Bangkok gallery

Can’t afford a weekend getaway to the Musee D’Orsay? An upcoming exhibition will be a must see for Van Goghites — or at least fans of “Loving Vincent,” or that one episode of Doctor Who.

At the Van Gogh Alive display, patrons will be greeted by moving, otherworldly portrayals of Vincent Van Gogh’s works on the walls, floors, and ceilings, accompanied by a dynamic soundtrack. The exhibition is also interactive, allowing visitors to engage with the works.

Apart from the famed Starry Night, other highlights include Sunflower Room, which is designed to make visitors feel as though they’re standing in a field of Van Gogh’s most challenging subjects. Continued …

Over 5.5 million tourists have already visited Thailand this year

About 5.57 million foreign tourists visited Thailand from Jan. 1 to March 18, generating 215.05 billion baht in revenue, deputy government spokesperson Traisulee Taisaranakul said on Wednesday, citing data from the Tourism and Sports Ministry.

Although both the domestic and foreign tourism markets are improving, the influx of foreign visitors has caused congestion at many areas in airports, such as check-in counters and the Immigration Bureau’s passport checkpoints, Traisulee said.

The price of flight tickets has also risen sharply, she added. Continued …

Chinese tourists rush to board ‘fashion time machine’ in Chiang Mai

The surreal sight of Chinese tourists wandering around in Thai traditional outfits is becoming commonplace in Chiang Mai.

Visitors from China have returned after three years of Covid-19 with a thirst for memorable and “authentic” Thai experiences as they tour historical temples and other attractions in the northern province.

Surrounded by crowds of Thais in jeans and T-shirts, Chinese tourists stand out in finery that was fashionable several centuries ago in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand welcomes Really Cool Airlines

A new airline has come to town, in the form of Thailand-based Really Cool Airlines.

The new airline will announce aircraft types, destinations and its route network in the coming months, with operations expected to commence by the end of 2023. Details on the approaches and services will also be revealed soon.

Patee Sarasin, CEO of Really Cool Airlines, said: “We are thrilled to introduce Really Cool Airlines and look forward to providing travelers with an exceptional flying experience. Our team of experts has worked tirelessly to create a new standard for the aviation industry, and we’re excited to unveil in the coming months what we have in store.” Continued …

Thailand’s ‘Really Cool Airlines’ may not be a joke, but difficult to take seriously

Get ready to fly the “really cool” skies, maybe, after the former head of Nok Air announced that he is launching a new airline that hopefully flies better than its name.

Five years after he left Nok, Patee Sarasin’s announcement “Really Cool Airlines” was so chockablock with scam-adjacent, threadbare buzzwords such as gamification, blockchain, and NFTs that it might be mistaken as satire to anyone who has paid attention to the past two years.

Announced as the world’s first “GameFi airline” (customers will play blockchain games!), Patee said Really Cool would be managed by “crypto-native citizens from our Really Cool Air GameFi.” Continued …

Bangkok Airways expects profit for 2023

Bangkok Airways expects its passenger rate to hit 70%-80% of the pre-pandemic level this year, roughly 4.4 million people from more than 40,000 flights, and will possibly post an annual profit for the first time since 2019.

Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, president of Bangkok Airways, said long-haul demand has grown better than expected since the final quarter of last year, which will help to hit the target of 15 billion baht in revenue for 2023.

Puttipong said European passengers currently accounted for 60% of the total, followed by Asia-Pacific and Thai passengers. Continued …

Safari park in Thailand responds to bungee cord incident

Staff from Chang Thai Thappraya Safari Park in Pattaya, Chon Buri province, eastern Thailand, have commented on the broken bungee cord incident that nearly killed a tourist from Hong Kong last month.

The bungee jump operator, 41-year-old Natthaphon Yokcharoen, took reporters to see the scene of the incident, a platform about 30 meters high above a lake.

Nattaphon said that all bungee jumpers are required to sign a document before jumping and staff demonstrate how it’s done before tourists take the leap. Continued …

A land of giants

(Editor: This park allows the riding of elephants. Expat News encourages readers to avoid elephant rides, which are damaging to their spines.)

As our car wound through the Khotcha-anajak project, also known as the Elephant Kingdom, one of my friends gestured enthusiastically out the window and her eyes twinkled with delight like a child when she spotted elephants ambling about seeking food in a green meadow.

“Have you never seen an elephant before?” was a question I couldn’t help but ask her. She emphasized how unique this scene was compared to what was seen in a zoo. We appeared to be on a safari, exploring a woodland with a field of open grazing animals.

In response to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother’s commitment to conserve Thai elephants, the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand established the project in 2009 to repatriate pachyderms that once roamed large-city streets to the northeastern town of Surin. Continued …

Where to find the best food in Phuket

Sheltering from an impetuous morning shower in Phuket Town, I’m wishing I was a camel. Or a llama. Really, anything with a second (or third) stomach. Ignoring my own oft-repeated mantra when joining a street food tour – pace yourself – I’m already in danger of peaking too early at a Burmese breakfast restaurant.

Our guide for the morning is Pema, an effervescent Thai local who seems to know all the vendors at Phuket Town’s Central Market. It’s aunty this and cousin that as our group is steered past mini-mountains of fragrant curry paste and carefully stacked pyramids of tropical fruit.

At the nearby Mingalar tea shop, we’re soon slurping on cardamom-laced tea, feasting on lahpet thoke (tea leaf salad), and dimpled Burmese flatbreads are emerging from a simple wood-fired oven that’s been glowing since well before dawn. Continued …

From ancient to modern: The cannabis tale of Thailand

In June 2022, Thailand made history by becoming the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis nationwide. The decision has put the spotlight on the country’s relationship with the plant, and it’s a fascinating tale that stretches back centuries.

Let’s dive into the long and winding history between Thailand and marijuana – a journey full of ups and downs, twists and turns, and of course, a lot of weed.

Video

It’s hard to imagine a time when cannabis wasn’t the subject of such a bad rap in the mainstream. But believe it or not, cannabis was completely legal in Thailand for centuries. Continued …

Federal Reserve raises interest rates amid banking turmoil

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday raised interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point but indicated it was on the verge of pausing further increases in borrowing costs amid recent turmoil in financial markets spurred by the collapse of two U.S. banks. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

90-day online reporting

bangkok, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-March 22

March 22, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Hua Hin school crosswalks get new paint job/
General Election Scheduled For May 14/
Thai firms unfazed by US banking woes/
Inflation and unemployment main worries of Thais/
Thai women of the year: Inspirational role models/
Pattaya Police Bust Alleged Indian Scammer of 3 billion baht/
Jolt in demand for EVs expected at Bangkok International Motor Show/
Top Thai execs discuss sustainability and path to achieving net zero/
Akara’s gold-mining operations back in full swing/
Tourism: Smoked bat, bacon and duck: Suvarnabhumi sniffer dogs kept busy by Chinese luggage/Bangkok business travel cost rises to $278 a day/Tourist’s bungee cord snaps in midair in Pattaya/Patong nightlife takes a hit after underage prostitution scandal/Russian Man Arrested on Pha-Ngan Island For 993-Day Overstay /New documentary spotlights overtourism’s detrimental impact on environment and wildlife/Phuket to host 1st Cannabis Cup this Saturday/
Thailand Experience: Elephants and elegance in Thailand/World’s happiest countries have been unveiled, Thailand ranks 60th/Thailand’s island getaways: wildlife, well-being and wonderful food/10 top destinations near Bangkok for summer and Songkran 2023/Bangkok: 7 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting/
International: Fed boss says banking stabilizing, US may intervene more if needed/Xi and Putin hail ‘new era’/Drought, floods and sickness: Key takeaways from UN’s water report/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin school crosswalks get new paint job

Officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan have launched a new campaign to reduce accidents at crosswalks or zebra crossings.

On Tuesday, Sathien Charoenruen, governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, as director of the Road Safety Center of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, chaired the opening ceremony of the road safety campaign.

The campaign seeks to improve pedestrian safety by repainting the markings of zebra crossings in numerous schools across the province. Continued …

General Election Scheduled For May 14

The Election Commission yesterday scheduled a general election for May 14, confirmed the polling agency’s Secretary-general Sawaeng Boonmee.

The May 14 election date has been set by the election commissioners after caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha dissolved the House of Representatives or only three days before its four-year term would otherwise have ended by schedule on the upcoming Friday.

The nationwide race to parliament will see a total of 500 partisan candidates elected as MPs, including 400 in constituency-based mode and 100 in party-listed mode. Continued …

Thai firms unfazed by US banking woes

The collapse of U.S. banks is expected to have only a minor impact on Thai companies and the overall Thai economy, according to the latest business survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

Based on a sample group of 600 Thai business owners nationwide, including those in the agricultural, industrial, service, and commercial sectors, the majority of business owners (73.5%) say the impact of the U.S. banking fallout on their businesses and the overall Thai economy will be marginal.

However, a majority of them (80%) still say there is a chance that Thailand’s international trade will feel an impact. Continued …

Inflation and unemployment main worries of Thais

The majority of people globally, including Thailand, are worried about economic recession, rising product prices and unemployment, global market research company Ipsos said on Tuesday.

The company cited its research “Ipsos Global Trend 2023″ conducted among more than 48,000 people in 50 countries. About 1,000 of the respondents were Thais.

“Recurring misfortune is the theme everyone faces this year because we have faced many crises, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war and inflation,” Ipsos said. Continued …

Thai women of the year: Inspirational role models

To mark this year’s International Women’s Day, a number of extraordinary women from a wide range of fields who have inspired change in their communities through the pursuit of excellence have been named the Bangkok Post’s Women of the Year.

A series of in-depth profiles of these women, which began on March 8, will conclude today. The profiles can also be viewed on a specially designed microsite, which provides further background on their achievements and insights into their rise.

This week, we honor Nattamon Pisankitvanich, managing director of BNN Restaurant Group; Danupha “Milli” Kanateerakul, a rapper; Srikanya Yathip, secretary-general of the Government Pension Fund; Watanya Amatanon, chief product officer of Forth Vending Co.; and Patchara Pirapak, a chef. Continued …

Pattaya Police Bust Alleged Indian Scammer of 3 billion baht

An Indian man and his Thai wife have been taken into custody by Pattaya Police for allegedly scamming multiple American victims of over three billion baht.

Deputy National Police Chief Torsak Sukwimol, accompanied by a commando unit and officers from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), conducted a raid on a house in Pattaya’s Banglamung district yesterday. The raid was prompted by a notification from the United States Embassy, which stated that the dwelling was being used as a hideout by scammers.

After searching the house, Torsak said he has arrested an unidentified Indian national aged between 50-60 years old and his Thai wife aged around 40-50 years old. The two have been accused of duping numerous American citizens of over three billion baht in total damages and had fled to Pattaya, according to the U.S. Embassy. Continued …

Jolt in demand for EVs expected at Bangkok International Motor Show

Electric vehicle manufacturers from around the world are targeting Thailand as the Bangkok International Motor Show 2023 kicks off today at Challenger Hall, Impact Muang Thong Thani on the outskirts of Bangkok.

Dozens of manufacturers will unveil new models at the 44th motor show, which runs until April 2. Automaking giants like Nissan and Toyota will also be using the fair to gauge Thai demand amid their plans to open EV manufacturing plants in Thailand.

Demand could also be driven up by the fuel crisis and higher prices at the pump. EV purchases at the Thailand International Motor Expo in December accounted for 15% of total bookings. Continued …

Top Thai execs discuss sustainability and path to achieving net zero

As the planet struggles with warming temperatures and climate change, the concept of sustainability is fast becoming a keyword in most industries.

“We can never stop, sustainability is a marathon with no finish line,” said Gwenaelle Avice-Huet, chief strategy and sustainability officer at Schneider Electric.

She was speaking at the “Sustainability Talk” jointly hosted on Monday by Bangkok Biz News and Schneider Electric. Continued …

Akara’s gold-mining operations back in full swing

Akara Resources’ Chatree gold mine resumed operations on Tuesday, six years after being shut down, in a new 10-year concession.

The mine was shut down in January 2017 by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, then head of the ruling National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO).

Prayut invoked his absolute powers under Section 44 of the Constitution to halt operations, citing pollution and environmental damage caused by the mine. Continued …

Smoked bat, bacon and duck: Suvarnabhumi sniffer dogs kept busy by Chinese luggage

The canine unit at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Tuesday added smuggled duck to the menu of illicit meats it has sniffed out in the luggage of passengers from China.

The Department of Livestock Development’s (DLD) Quarantine and Inspection canine unit detected seven bags of fresh duck meat hidden in luggage at the airport’s arrivals terminal.

The bags weighed one kilogram each and carried an estimated 2,100 baht worth of meat. Continued …

Bangkok business travel cost rises to $278 a day

The cost of business travel to Bangkok has risen moderately by 4%, making it the 24th most expensive destination in Asia, while Singapore ranks second after Hong Kong this year, says ECA International (ECA).

According to the daily rates report by ECA, the typical daily cost of business travel to Bangkok has risen to US$278 a day. The marginal uptick was caused by a slower post-coronavirus-pandemic recovery in popular Thai cities.

Lee Quane, regional director, said cities such as Pattaya and Chiang Mai all witnessed small rates of growth in local currency terms in 2022, ranging from 1%-3%. Meanwhile, hotel rates have been suppressed by low demand compared to pre-pandemic levels. Continued …

Tourist’s bungee cord snaps in midair in Pattaya

The bungee cord of a tourist leaping from a 10-story-high platform in Thailand snapped in midair, sending him plunging into a lake in Pattaya.

The man from Hong Kong, known only as Mike, momentarily blacked out in the water, but regained consciousness and swam out of the lake with the help of the attraction’s employees. He was then taken to hospital.

The incident reportedly happened in February in the Changthai Thappraya Safari and Adventure Park located in the popular Thai tourist destination of Pattaya. Continued …

Patong nightlife takes a hit after underage prostitution scandal

Nightlife venues in Phuket’s popular Patong Beach area say a recent bar raid in which police allegedly found children employed as sex workers has hit them hard. According to a report, businesses have lost around 100 million baht since the raid on a foreign-operated bar.

The raid was carried out last Wednesday by a special task force unit from the Department of Provincial Administration. It’s understood two suspects were arrested at the bar on Bangla Road, where police discovered minors were being employed as sex workers.

Deputy National Police Chief Surachate Hakparn has since confirmed the venue was operated by a foreign national, named only as Ronny, who has reportedly fled to Laos. It’s understood he also operated nightlife venues in Bangkok and neighboring provinces in central Thailand. Continued …

Russian Man Arrested on Pha-Ngan Island For 993-Day Overstay

A 34-year-old Russian man was arrested on Pha-Ngan Island in Surat Thani for 993 days of overstaying his legal visa conditions.

Immigration officers said recently they have arrested a Russian national, 34. He was arrested at a resort on the island.

He is now at 993 days of overstaying his legal visa, according to police. Continued …

New documentary spotlights overtourism’s detrimental impact on environment and wildlife

An award-winning documentary launched in Australia – “The Last Tourist” – spotlights overtourism’s detrimental impact on the environment and wildlife, and delivers a candid exploration filmed across 16 countries featuring UN messenger of peace, Dr. Jane Goodall.

Overtourism describes destinations where hosts or guests, locals or visitors feel that there are too many visitors and that the quality of life in the area, or the quality of the experience has deteriorated unacceptably.

Video trailer

“The Last Tourist” addresses the real impact of mass tourism as it traverses 16 different countries, magnifying its impact on the environment, wildlife, and vulnerable communities. With borders reopening around the world and post-pandemic travel resuming at a fast pace, it’s an apt time to reflect on what the pause in mass tourism taught us, and to reassess how travel can return in a more responsible and conscious way. Continued …

Phuket to host 1st Cannabis Cup this Saturday

Nine months after weed was decriminalized, popular tourist destination Phuket will light up this weekend with a cannabis event where the best buds will win.

The Phuket Cannabis Cup will go down Saturday at a hotel on Kata Beach. Hosted by the Phuket Cannabis Assn., the event will feature a joint-rolling race, showcase of buds throughout Thailand, panel discussions, and more.

There will be a competition to identify the best weed strains in four categories: indoor hybrid, indoor sativa, indoor indica, and greenhouse strains. They will be judged by eight weed veterans and long-time advocates. Continued …

Elephants and elegance in Thailand

Norpeo happily allows me to slather her with handful after handful of silky-smooth river mud. And she doesn’t mind it when I follow her into the crystal-clear waters of the River Kwai to splash and scrub the mud off with a big kitchen broom.

Maybe she’s such a trusting friend because earlier I hand-fed her watermelons and bananas as she winked at me and caressed my arm with her nimble trunk.

As you may have deduced by now, Norpeo is an elephant. Not just any elephant, but a pregnant pachyderm rescued from a life of having to give tourists rides on her back as her handler kept her in line with a hook. Continued …

World’s happiest countries have been unveiled, Thailand ranks 60th

The annual UN-sponsored happiness index for the happiest countries in the world was unveiled on Monday. For the sixth year running, Finland was named the world’s happiest country.

Thailand was ranked 60th.

With thousands of lakes and near endless forests, the Nordic country is known for its extensive welfare system, high trust in authorities and low levels of inequality among its 5.5 million inhabitants. Continued …

Thailand’s island getaways: wildlife, well-being and wonderful food

Behind me lies a lake of lotus – an emerald field of lily pads that begrudgingly part for a small wooden boat captained by a young boy. One of its great pink floating flowers has made its way from the water onto the table in front of me, in the most beautiful meal I’ve ever beheld. Two ample plates hold a veritable rainbow of fresh, crisp, culinary mysteries in colors that seem far from natural.

Yet, the majority of it has been grown and picked here at The Nature cafe’s garden on the Thai island of Koh Samui. The cafe’s signature miang-bua sharing platter holds a whole lotus, whose magenta petals are plucked off and wrapped around a mix of roasted coconut, cashew, shrimp, shallots, ginger, lime, palate-pounding chilli, taling bling fruit and sweet nam miang sauce. Every mouthful zings with bright, brilliant flavor.

To its side is khao-yum, a dish full of flowers, betel leaves, beans, nam bu du fish sauce and vibrant blue butterfly pea rice that has everyone under the age of 40 itching to Instagram it. The most impressive part is that, for once, the food actually tastes as good as it looks. Continued …

10 top destinations near Bangkok for summer and Songkran 2023

As the summer season and the Songkran Festival approach Thailand next month, here are 10 top destinations to visit in April to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a great water fight. The list includes a wide range of interesting places from waterfalls, seas, mountains, and spectacular natural scenery.

With Songkran Festival set to be held from April 13 to 15, all the visitors can also participate in water fights and various Songkran celebrations to celebrate the Thai New Year and the annual long holiday.

These destinations are easy to travel to, close to Bangkok, and convenient whether you’re planning for a one-day trip or a longer vacation. Continued …

Bangkok: 7 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting

While many travelers only pass through Bangkok when in transit, the city itself is well worth a proper visit.

Bangkok is a whirlwind for the senses and a far cry from the relaxing islands and beaches that so many tourists seek out in Thailand.

But visitors who embrace the hustle and bustle of the city will be rewarded with a beautiful experience. With incredible food, welcoming people, and vibrant culture, Bangkok is just waiting to be explored. Continued …

Fed boss says banking stabilizing, US may intervene more if needed

The United States banking sector is “stabilizing” after the recent failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank rattled the industry, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told a lenders’ conference Tuesday, as leaders seek to calm global worries. Continued …

Xi and Putin hail ‘new era’

After two days of talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin has pledged even closer ties with Russia’s most powerful backer and hailed Beijing’s proposals for ending his war in Ukraine. Continued …

Drought, floods and sickness: Key takeaways from UN’s water report

Billions of people experience water-related issues on a daily basis – from contaminated drinking water, to droughts and floods – with a UN report warning Tuesday that the risk of a global crisis is “imminent.” Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

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bangkok, climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-March 21

March 21, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Hua Hin Bikini Run this Saturday/
Bully on the Beach at Bluport Saturday/
Hua Hin Boat Show at Racer Marina March 24-26/
Fire problems in Hin Lek Fai area/
Latest video of the Hua Hin railway construction/
Thailand’s top classical guitarists hit high note in Hua Hin/
Scientists combing Prachinburi for radioactivity after stolen cesium melted in furnace/
Hua Lamphong lights up to celebrate 126th birthday of railway in Thailand/
Thailand to build 7 new airports/
New power plan will support renewables/
Dane supports abandoned children in Khon Kaen/
Man finds 23kg python in his toilet/
Bees attack temple over loud music/
Police raids bust 319 drug rings in South/
Thai media continue to attack marijuana use, blaming it for violence/addiction/
Tourism: Will the 45-day visa waiver continue after March 31?/Why Is It (Still) Difficult for Airlines To Add New Flights at Suvarnabhumi Airport?/China’s Spring Airlines sees recovery in flights/
International: Gold skyrockets as banks still wobble/’Dear friends’ Xi and Putin meet in Moscow as Ukraine war rages/EU agrees 2-billion-euro ammunition plan for Ukraine/French government narrowly survives no-confidence vote/DHL forecasts growth in international trade to stall/World on ‘thin ice’ as UN climate report gives stark warning/US prepares for unprecedented likely arrest of ex-president/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin Bikini Run this Saturday

Bully on the Beach at Bluport Saturday

Hua Hin Boat Show at Racer Marina March 24-26

The first-ever Racer Marina Hua Hin Boat Show will take place in Pak Nam Pran from March 24 to 26.

The show will showcase a selection of boats, as well as a variety of marine accessories and equipment. Visitors can speak to industry experts, view boats and purchase the latest equipment from some of Thailand’s leading suppliers and brokers.

Several of Thailand’s biggest yachting companies are taking part in the event, including Simpson Marine, Asiamarine and Motorfield, while Suzuki and Tohatsu will also be at the show.

For more information; tel: 032 632 206.

Fire problems in Hin Lek Fai area

Officials from multiple agencies launched a joint operation on Monday to extinguish forest fires burning on Hin Lek Fai in Hua Hin.

Officials said the fires had been burning for three consecutive days and had spread to other hills, threatening nearby villages and houses.

Polkrit Phuangvalaisin, Hua Hin district chief, along with Nopporn Wutthikul, the mayor of Hua Hin City, led a group of officers from the Hua Hin Border Patrol Police Station 3, village chiefs, and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation to urgently bring equipment to extinguish the forest fires. Continued …

Latest video of the Hua Hin railway construction

Mike’s Tropical Tech https://www.youtube.com/@MikesTropicalTech YouTube channel has released the latest drone video in its series that documents the construction progress of the new dual track train line in Hua Hin.

The video provides a unique perspective of the construction site and offers an insight into the progress being made on this infrastructure project.

Video

The dual-track train line is set to revolutionize the transportation system in Hua Hin and will significantly reduce journey time between Hua Hin, southern Thailand and Bangkok. Continued …

Thailand’s top classical guitarists hit high note in Hua Hin

Some 80 young musicians from across Thailand gathered at Hua Hin’s Bluport shopping mall to participate in a two-day classical guitar competition that kicked off on Friday.

The “Bluport Guitar Festival and Competition 2023” was organized in collaboration with the Legend Arena and Hua Hin guitar club. The contest was split into three categories – under 12, under 18, and all ages. Winners in each category won a scholarship and a trophy.

The event also included a guitar-making workshop. Continued …

Scientists combing Prachinburi for radioactivity after stolen cesium melted in furnace

Science Ministry officials are combing Prachinburi for signs of radioactivity after a stolen cylinder of cesium-137 was melted in the furnace of a recycling plant in the province’s Kabin Buri district.

Anek Laothamatas, minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, said medical colleges were also checking local residents for signs of health impacts from radiation.

The ministry has set up an emergency center in the province and would employ the highest safety protocol to deal with the situation, he added. Continued …

Hua Lamphong lights up to celebrate 126th birthday of railway in Thailand

A spectacular light show is transforming Bangkok’s historic Hua Lamphong Station to celebrate the 126th birthday of the railway in Thailand.

The week-long light show kicked off on Saturday as part of an event called “Unfolding Bangkok”, initiated by the Creative Economy Agency to promote tourism at attractions across the capital until September.

Hua Lamphong Station is being splashed with color to celebrate its 106-year history as the national rail hub, which ended in January when 52 long-distance trains were moved to the new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bang Sue district. Continued …

Thailand to build 7 new airports

The Department of Airports (DOA) plans to spend 50 billion baht on the development of seven new regional airports in Thailand, in Nakhon Pathom, Bueng Khan, Mukdahan, Kalasin, Phayao, Phatthalung and Satun provinces.

The department wants to boost connectivity and provide more travel options for Thais and foreign tourists.

New airports around Thailand’s lesser-known locations have been in the pipeline for years but faced delays due to the pandemic. Now, the department is making good progress. Continued …

New power plan will support renewables

Energy authorities expect to launch a new national power development plan (PDP) in an effort to better promote and support greater use of renewable energy.

The new PDP is meant to span 2023 to 2037, replacing the current one that took effect in 2018 and went through many revisions to align with changes in energy policy.

Efforts to introduce the new PDP were earlier delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic, a surge in global energy prices and Thailand’s new commitment to cutting carbon dioxide emissions. Continued …

Dane supports abandoned children in Khon Kaen

Six years has it been since Danish Steen Pausbæk and his family first got involved with the Baan Luuk Rak Children Home in Khon Kaen.

The home for abandoned children was founded in 1997 by Suriya Somjai and his wife, who died of breast cancer eight years ago.

Her sudden death left her husband and their now 24-year-old daughter alone to provide for the 46 children that resides at the orphanage, the youngest being only seven months, while the oldest is 18 years old. Continued …

Man finds 23kg python in his toilet

We’ve all experienced the feeling of dread when you flush a toilet and the water doesn’t go down, and it’s even worse when something comes up instead. But it’s much, much worse when what comes up in the toilet is the head of a giant python.

Snakes are common enough in Thailand that it’s not too unexpected to spot one in nature or even in a home garden. But the shock is definitely much bigger when a giant python crawls out of your toilet, as a homeowner in Thailand recently discovered. Continued …

Bees attack temple over loud music

Most people get annoyed when their neighbors blast loud music, but have you ever become so angry that you wanted to stab them with your butt? No? Then you mustn’t be a bee!

A swarm of bees did just that at a temple in the Nakhon Ratchasima province.

A temple in Phimai District was holding an ordination ceremony on Friday with traditional music playing just a tad too loud. The noise caused a frenzy in a hive in front of the temple and a swarm of agitated bees attacked the crowd, resulting in dozens of stings and several injuries. Continued …

Police raids bust 319 drug rings in South

Police conducted drug and firearm raids in over 600 locations in Thailand’s southern provinces on Monday, arresting more than 200 suspects and confiscating property worth 17.4 million baht.

Police Lt. Gen. Sompong Chingduang, the assistant police chief and deputy director of the narcotics prevention and suppression center, held a press briefing at Hat Yai Police Station in Songkhla to reveal the raid’s results.

Police raided 609 locations targeting 319 drug rings in Songkhla, Trang, Satun, Phatthalung, Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat. Continued …

Thai media continue to attack marijuana use, blaming it for violence/addiction

Several Thai media outlets continued their attack on the use of marijuana in the kingdom. They have claimed it is responsible for acts of violence after users go berserk when they can’t get a “fix”.

They claim that weed is addictive.

There are shades of the so called “Reefer Madness” that references a film that led to decades of disinformation about the drug. Continued …

Will the 45-day visa waiver continue after March 31?

Last October, the Thai cabinet decided to increase the length of the visa waiver for tourists from 64 countries from 30 days. The extension was going to last until March 31, 2023.

Here we are, 10 days out, and there’s been nothing, not even a whisper, of an announcement to keep the 45-day waiver continuing beyond the end of March.

While the Tourism and Sports minister, as well as the TAT governor, are talking up an extension of the program beyond March 31, there has been no announcements, or even discussion, in the media about the situation. Continued …

Why Is It (Still) Difficult for Airlines To Add New Flights at Suvarnabhumi Airport?

With many countries opening their borders and returning to international flights, the question remains why many airlines still find it difficult to accommodate more arrivals and departures from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

According to Prachachat Business, the problems mainly affect flights from China, where, according to earlier reports, more than 20 airlines have applied for Suvarnabhumi airport, with 50 to 60 flights a day, since China opened its border.

The above figure indicates that the majority of applications have not yet been approved. It is important to note that the above figure is well below the record of around 200 flights per day in 2019. Continued …

China’s Spring Airlines sees recovery in flights

Flights between Thailand and China on Spring Airlines have recovered to 50% of pre-pandemic levels and are expected to resume normal frequencies this year, aided by high demand and a forecast of 5% Chinese GDP growth.

Zhang Wuan, vice president of the Chinese carrier, said flights between Thailand and China have emerged as one of the top international routes because Thailand remains a popular destination for Chinese travelers. Continued …

Gold skyrockets as banks still wobble

Gold prices passed US$2,000 for the first time in more than a year on Monday as UBS’s recent takeover of its Swiss rival Credit Suisse for $3.2 billion failed to assure investors about ongoing bank woes. Continued …

‘Dear friends’ Xi and Putin meet in Moscow as Ukraine war rages

Russian President Vladimir Putin told Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday that he had looked at China’s proposals for a resolution of the Ukraine conflict and that he viewed them with respect. Continued …

EU agrees 2-billion-euro ammunition plan for Ukraine

European Union ministers agreed Monday on a two-billion-euro plan to raid their own arsenals and jointly purchase desperately needed ammunition for Ukraine. Continued …

French government narrowly survives no-confidence vote

French President Emmanuel Macron’s government narrowly survived a no-confidence motion in the National Assembly on Monday, after bypassing the lower house to push through a deeply unpopular change to the pension system. Continued …

DHL forecasts growth in international trade to stall

International trade growth is forecast to stagnate this year, as countries have raised interest rates to combat surging inflation, leading to a worldwide economic slowdown, says global logistics company DHL. Continued …

World on ‘thin ice’ as UN climate report gives stark warning

Humanity still has a chance, close to the last, to prevent the worst of climate change ‘s future harms, a top United Nations panel of scientists said Monday. Continued …

US prepares for unprecedented likely arrest of ex-president

America readied itself Monday ahead of the possible historic indictment of Donald Trump over a hush-money case, with the former president calling for mass demonstrations if he is charged. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai food, thailand, tourism

Monday’s News-March 20

March 20, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Food Carnival at Market Village March 25-April 16/
Thailand’s surging PM2.5 dust pollution shows little sign of abating/
Miss Thailand 2023 is Chonnikarn Supittayaporn of Chiang Mai/
Thailand’s ‘phanaeng’ tops list of best curries in the world/
Thailand’s e-commerce sector enters the next phase/
Immigration announces latest arrests of foreign criminals in Thailand/
Thailand to dissolve Parliament today ahead of election/
Rain and hail storms hit Chiang Mai, causing widespread property damage/
‘Golden year’ for Phuket property as condos and luxury villas sell out/
Teen pregnancy in Thailand decreasing, but the issue remains complicated/
Low reserves of Rh negative blood raise concerns for foreigners in Thailand/
Radioactive Cesium-137 found in smelting works – factories sealed off/
2 die, 5 hospitalized after eating poisonous horseshoe crab in Trat/
Tourism: Chinese arrivals predicted to top 300,000 in April/Red cards issued in Phuket, foreigners deported/Swiss man on the run after underage sex ring shut down in police raid/7 people rescued after their vessel capsizes in Andaman Sea/Thai Tour Guides Unite to Address Issue of Illegal Foreign Guides/Foreign Tourist Drowns in Strong Waves at Pattaya beach/Treehouses, tents and rafts can now be used for hotels/
Thailand Experience: The perfect fusion of what Thailand has to offer/
International: Swiss banking giant UBS to buy troubled rival Credit Suisse/Global warming driving more extreme droughts and floods/China’s Xi heads to Russia in visit for ‘peace’/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Food Carnival at Market Village March 25-April 16

Thailand’s surging PM2.5 dust pollution shows little sign of abating

Worries about Covid-19 may be gone, but PM2.5 is back, plunging Thailand into yet another crisis.

As the ultra-fine dust accumulates, blanketing many provinces, businesses and households are increasingly complaining about the health and economic impact.

The northern city of Chiang Mai, a top tourism destination, this month earned the unwanted title of worst air quality on the IQAir global index, reported by a Swiss technology company that monitors air quality in major cities worldwide. Continued …

Miss Thailand 2023 is Chonnikarn Supittayaporn of Chiang Mai

Miss Chiang Mai, Chonnikarn Supittayaporn, was crowned Miss Thailand 2023 on Sunday, at the Central Chaengwattana in Nonthaburi, Bangkok. The 24-year-old model and pharmacy graduate of Chiang Mai University succeeded last year’s winner Manita Farmer and will now prepare to represent Thailand at the 71st Miss World (Miss World 2023) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Sakhon Nakhon’s Marisa Phonthirat was named the first runner-up, while Phatthalung’s Arabella Sitanan Gregory finished as the second runner-up. (pageantcircle.com)

Thailand’s ‘phanaeng’ tops list of best curries in the world

Thailand’s spicy “phanaeng curry” topped the latest TasteAtlas.com list of “100 Best Rated Stews in the World”, with 4.8 points out of 5.

Following it closely in the list published on Sunday were Japan’s karē, China’s Sichuan hot pot, Vietnam’s bò kho and India’s shahi paneer.

Apart from phanaeng, several other Thai dishes made it to the list, including green curry at 8th place, massaman at 9th, Thai curry 15th, yellow curry 32nd and red curry 34th. Continued …

Thailand’s e-commerce sector enters the next phase

Thailand’s e-commerce landscape is entering the next stage, where major e-marketplace players are introducing innovative features to woo customers instead of focusing on price wars, while social commerce is strengthening in a bid to capture buyers.

The growth of e-commerce will happen across diverse channels, ranging from social media to websites owned by product developers, said analysts.

Live-streaming as a method to sell products is gaining popularity because it encourages consumers to quickly make a purchasing decision, according to analysts. Continued …

Immigration announces latest arrests of foreign criminals in Thailand

Thailand’s immigration Bureau headed by Police Lt, Gen. Phakphoomphat Sajjaphan announced the latest arrests of foreigners who found safe haven in Thailand after committing multiple crimes abroad.

The roll-call on this occasion featured fraudsters, a drug dealer, a gun-toting gambler and a tax evader.

They were picked up on warrants and overstay in Phuket, Pattaya and in the Bangkok area where they were living without a care …. until immigration came calling. Continued …

Thailand to dissolve Parliament today ahead of election

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has submitted a decree to dissolve Thailand’s Parliament before the upcoming election, May 7 or May 14.

The dissolution will come into effect upon its publication in the Royal Gazette, which is expected today.

The decree requires approval from Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Continued …

Rain and hail storms hit Chiang Mai, causing widespread property damage

Several districts in Chiang Mai were hit by rain and hail storms on Saturday, causing widespread damage to houses, utility poles, trees and billboards. There were no fatalities, although one person was slightly injured.

According to reports, the summer rain and hail storms struck Mueang, Mae Rim, San Sai and Doi Saked districts. Hail covered several areas, turning the landscape white like snow.

Gov. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn has ordered the provincial public disaster prevention and mitigation office, district chiefs and local administrators to provide initial help to those affected and to survey the extent of the damage. Continued …

‘Golden year’ for Phuket property as condos and luxury villas sell out

Phuket’s property market has returned to pre-pandemic levels and all finished condo units and villas with pools have been sold, most of them to foreign nationals, according to the Phuket Real Estate Assn.

Phattanan Phisutvimol, its president, said the surge in sales of condominiums and luxury villas started after the Covid-19 pandemic receded last year.

Sales have surged to pre-pandemic levels and 823 real-estate projects, including hotels, were approved for construction last year, she said, adding: “This year will be the golden year for Phuket’s property market. The boom will continue.” Continued …

Teen pregnancy in Thailand decreasing, but the issue remains complicated

Maneerat got pregnant with her first child when she was only 17. As a result, she did not complete her education and was pushed into adulthood when she was not ready.

Her unplanned pregnancy has changed her life forever. Looking back, there was also mounting pressure that pushed her to this turning point.

“It was like when you’re squeezing something too hard, it trickles through your fingers. Can you imagine? I was just like that.” Continued …

Low reserves of Rh negative blood raise concerns for foreigners in Thailand

Low reserves of Rh negative blood are raising concerns for foreigners in Thailand.

While only 0.3% of the Thai population has Rh negative blood, around 15% of the UK and European population has the blood type. This shortage has resulted in concerning shortages of Rh negative blood in blood banks across Southeast Asia.

Visitors to the region who have had accidents or required surgery have found themselves in life-threatening situations because of the lack of available Rh negative blood supplies. In some cases, it has taken up to two weeks to find enough donors to supply the required amount of blood. Continued …

Radioactive Cesium-137 found in smelting works – factories sealed off

Missing radioactive material – Cesium-137 – has been found after checks at two smelting works in the Kabinburi industrial estate.

On Sunday, provincial Gov. Ranarojng Nakhonjinda and Permsuk Sajjaphiwat from the Office of Atoms for Peace were called in to examine a large amount of waste metal.

Hand-held Geiger counters found suspicious waste in a mountain of scrap metal that is brought in and processed at the factories. The factories were sealed off to protect the public. No further details were given about the origin of the waste. – Thai Rath

2 die, 5 hospitalized after eating poisonous horseshoe crab in Trat

Two people in the southeastern province of Trat have been confirmed dead, while five others were hospitalized after eating lethally poisonous mangrove horseshoe crabs.

Health officials in Trat repeated warnings this morning for people to be careful before consuming horseshoe crabs, which are a staple. The mangrove variety is poisonous, however, and is blamed for the deaths of two residents in the seaside province located next to the gulf.

There have been cases of people occasionally misidentifying mangrove horseshoe crabs, aka the round-tail horseshoe crab, which contains a toxin, for the Indo-pacific horseshoe crab, which has a tail covered by a sturdy carapace. The latter species is not poisonous and safe to eat. – Coconuts

Chinese arrivals predicted to top 300,000 in April

The Chinese government expects the number of Chinese tourist arrivals will rise to more than 300,000 in April, according to the Chinese ambassador to Thailand.

Han Zhiqiang, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Thailand, on Saturday paid a courtesy call to Phuket Gov. Narong Woonciew at the Provincial Hall.

After welcoming the ambassador, Narong gave an update on moves to set up sister cities with China, the Sino-Thai tourism outlook, and Thailand’s plans to chair the Specialized Expo 2028. Continued …

Red cards issued in Phuket, foreigners deported

Phuket’s new “red” and “yellow” card system has resulted in warnings and arrests for several foreigners. The system, launched earlier this month, has been implemented, without details, and is aimed at reducing crime and illegal activity committed by foreigners in Phuket.

The new system has been initiated in Phuket under the banner of the local immigration office, but has not, as yet, been introduced in other tourist zones around Thailand.

The system awards a yellow or red card warning for various offenses with no avenue for protest or appeal. Continued …

Swiss man on the run after underage sex ring shut down in police raid

The Royal Thai Police has, in recent years, prioritized the fight against underage prostitution linked with the human trafficking industry. On Saturday, Deputy National Police Chief Gen. Surachate Hakparn, or “Big Joke”, described it as a particularly egregious form of human trafficking.

However, there remains the blooming business of human traffickers importing young women into Thailand from poorer countries who are indentured, often for years, into a massive prostitution and wider sex industry with links across the kingdom’s borders.

A Swiss man was being tracked and his known associates in Phuket placed under surveillance this weekend after Thai police smashed an underage prostitution network with tentacles and customers throughout the island. A Swiss national is reportedly on the run through neighboring countries to Thailand after police smashed his sex trafficking ring specializing in prostituting young girls on the holiday island of Phuket. Continued …

7 people rescued after their vessel capsizes in Andaman Sea

Three tourists and four crew members from a speed boat were safely rescued after their vessel capsized near Ma Island in the Andaman Sea.

Responding to a distress call from the Andaman Adventure Co., operator of the speed boat service, after its vessel took on water as it was heading for Phuket from Lanta Island, marine police and other officials from the Hat Nopparat Thara National Park rushed to the rescue.

The rescue team managed to pluck all the seven crew members and passengers from the sea and took them to hospital on Phi Phi Island for first-aid treatment. Continued …

Thai Tour Guides Unite to Address Issue of Illegal Foreign Guides

A group of Chinese-speaking tour guides convened on Saturday to discuss the trouble caused by illegal guides who are stealing their jobs. The group complained they are being overlooked by the government, as their complaints, so far, have not been heard.

The complainers revealed at a meeting that some foreign guides are working illegally in Thailand and are stealing their jobs. These guides do not have a guide license, which is required by Thai laws, to operate as a guide. A guide is a protected occupation in Thailand that foreigners cannot work in.

They said they met on Saturday to petition the government to take action against the illegal guides, citing although their multiple complaints in the past about this issue have not been heard, they still want justice to be served. Continued …

Foreign Tourist Drowns in Strong Waves at Pattaya beach

Pattaya authorities have warned people of strong waves and winds after a foreign tourist drowned in the sea yesterday.

Sawang Boriboon rescuers rushed to Pattaya Beach near the Nipa Lodge intersection around 2pm after getting a report about a drowning tourist. When they arrived, they found multiple onlookers circling an unidentified foreigner who was lying unconscious on the beach.

The tourist of unknown nationality was about 55-65 years old. The rescuers tried to revive him by providing him with life-saving CPR but failed. There were no signs of a wallet or identification documents nearby. Continued …

Treehouses, tents and rafts can now be used for hotels

Owners of bungalows, container houses, treehouses, tents and houses on rafts can now turn them into hotels, as the Cabinet has approved an ministerial draft regulation related to buildings suitable for the hotel business, deputy government spokesperson Tipanan Sirichana said on Sunday.

The Cabinet approved the Interior Ministry’s draft regulation on Tuesday, she said, explaining that the goal is to “promote competition in the tourism industry”.

The draft ministerial regulation states that bungalows, container houses, houses on rafts, tree houses and tents are specialty buildings that people can live in or use. Continued …

The perfect fusion of what Thailand has to offer

If you’re anything like me, and your ultimate holiday is the perfect mix of discovering new cuisine, trying a variety of sports activities, and finding true relaxation, Thailand may very well be your perfect next travel destination. Whether you’re looking to visit vibrant Bangkok, or gorgeous and peaceful Khao Lak, both locations have it all on offer.

At The Athenee in Bangkok, located on the grounds of former royal residence Kandhavas Palace, the palace of Princess Malaya Alongkorn, food lovers can explore eight different restaurants, serving anything from local traditional to modern international cuisine.

At the Kintsugi Bangkok, by Japanese-American celebrity chef Jeff Ramsey, highlights include a cold walnut soba noodle dish and wonderfully fresh high-quality sashimi. Try to secure a seat at the counter, as seeing the dishes prepared and plated up close is quite the theater. Continued …

Swiss banking giant UBS to buy troubled rival Credit Suisse

Banking giant UBS is buying its smaller rival Credit Suisse for $3.2 billion in an effort to avoid further market-shaking turmoil in global banking, Swiss President Alain Berset announced on Sunday night. Continued …

Global warming driving more extreme droughts and floods

Twenty years of NASA’s global satellite data show just how much the extent, duration and severity of extreme droughts and floods have risen alongside warming global temperatures, a new study reveals. Continued …

China’s Xi heads to Russia in visit for ‘peace’

Chinese President Xi Jinping begins a state visit to Russia today, a trip Beijing has touted as a “visit for peace” as it seeks to play mediator in Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

90-day online reporting

bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-March 18

March 18, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Phetchaburi immigration office moves to Cha Am district/
Cha Am Bikini Beach Run tomorrow/
Thailand’s economic outlook upgraded to 3.9% in 2023/
Asia-Pacific banks said safe from US contagion/
Thailand ready to dissolve Parliament, as PM submits decree to King/
2023 election: number of voters in each generation/
Commentary: Wildlife wars must end/
Elephant filmed stopping trucks for food/
Thailand to celebrate 241st anniversary of Bangkok as its capital/
SRT on right track to lead Thailand’s green recovery/
AmChams Thailand Holds Asia Pacific Business Summit/
Gold prices up Bt500 to Bt31,750/
Diesel to dip to 33.5 baht a liter next week/
Draft bill sets in motion protection, legalization of sex work/
Thai man ‘nearly dies’ after replacing water with kratom tea/
Tourism: Pattaya island Koh Larn draws in 130,000 tourists this month/Bangkok’s Khao San Road hopes for Songkran boom/Is Chiang Mai Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know/Russians flee for Thailand to avoid Ukraine war call-up as they ‘take over’ top resorts/Why Amsterdam wants tourists to ‘stay away’/
Thailand Experience: Isan, Thailand: Unique culinary capital/
International: Arrest warrant issued against Putin over alleged war crimes/Credit Suisse at a crossroads as stocks slide again/Mountain forests disappearing at alarming rate/UN: Environmental threat looms as bottled water consumption grows exponentially/Golf’s ruling bodies clash with pros over plans to reduce golf ball distance/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Phetchaburi immigration office moves to Cha Am district

Cha Am Bikini Beach Run tomorrow

Thailand’s economic outlook upgraded to 3.9% in 2023

SCB EIC revised Thailand’s economic growth forecast to 3.9% (previously 3.4%) in 2023, thanks to an upbeat rebound from the tourism and service sectors.

Foreign tourist arrivals will likely hit 30 million in 2023 before resuming the pre-pandemic pace by late 2024.

With China lifting its zero-Covid restrictions, Chinese visitors should bounce back to around 4.8 million this year, alongside improving tourist arrivals from other countries. Continued …

Asia-Pacific banks safe from US contagion

Asia-Pacific banks are resilient to risks related to the failures of their U.S. peers, says Fitch Ratings, noting that regional banks have limited direct exposure to Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank.

“The direct exposures among Fitch-rated banks in Asia-Pacific to SVB and Signature that we are aware of are not material to their credit profiles,” the global rating agency said in a statement on Friday.

Few Fitch-rated banks in the region have depositor concentration profiles similar to SVB, which left it vulnerable to a run. Continued …

Thailand ready to dissolve Parliament, as PM submits decree to King

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said on Friday that he has prepared a decree to dissolve the Parliament and that it is awaiting royal endorsement.

Once approved, the decree will go into effect after being published in the Royal Gazette. As per the Constitution, the election should be held 45 to 60 days after Parliament is dissolved.

Prayut was speaking to the press while visiting the Chiang Mai International Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday as part of his election campaign. Continued …

2023 election: number of voters in each generation

The number of eligible voters in each age group will help determine which generation will have the greatest influence in the upcoming election.

According to the Bureau of Registration Administration, Thailand’s population as of December 2022 stood at 66,090,475, split into 32,270,615 men and 33,819,860 women.

However, the total number of qualified voters for the upcoming election is 52,322,824, which can be categorized as follows: Continued …

Wildlife wars must end

As Thailand celebrates National Elephant Day this week, the country is facing a paradoxical experience, with a surge in human-elephant conflicts that sometimes prove fatal.

March 13 was designated national elephant day in 1998. On the one hand, the elephant is glorified as a national symbol. In bygone days, the national flag even carried the image of an elephant.

On the other hand, human-elephant conflicts, as a result of shrinking habitats due to human expansion, are intensified. Food and sometimes water shortages drive wild elephants to raid farms and plantations, as well as villages. Continued …

Elephant filmed stopping trucks for food

A video of an elephant stopping trucks on a road in Thailand has been misleadingly shared in Facebook and Twitter posts about Cambodia. The clip actually was filmed in Chachoengsao province, east of Bangkok. A road sign seen in the video and the fact the vehicles are driving on the left side of the road also show the encounter took place in Thailand.

“Elephants in Cambodia have learned to exploit their right of way and stop passing sugar cane trucks to steal a snack. 0.5% road tax being collected by these intelligent beings,” reads the misleading claim shared on Twitter on March 6.

Regardless where it occurred, it’s fun to watch. Video …

Thailand to celebrate 241st anniversary of Bangkok as its capital

Thailand will celebrate the 241st anniversary of Bangkok serving as its capital around Rattanakosin Island. The Ministry of Culture and more than 30 other agencies are teaming up to hold the event between April 21-25, just a week after the Thai New Year of Songkran.

Organizers are hoping to promote tourism and create awareness of the history of Krung Rattanakosin. Religious ceremonies, a “Night Museum”, multimedia light and sound shows, a photo contest, and outdoor film screenings are being planned for the event. Continued …

SRT on right track to lead Thailand’s green recovery

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is on the right track after announcing plans to build a hospital and develop land around Thon Buri Railway Station into an environmentally friendly zone, to lead the way in Thailand’s green recovery.

The transit-oriented development (TOD) project is the first of its kind in the country, designed to bring people, human activities, residential buildings and public space within walking distance of public transport.

The company will call bids for the project, which is set to be divided into several phases over about 20 years. The winning bidder for the 14-rai development project could put up a condo or apartments with no more than 13 storys, as stipulated by city ordinance. Continued …

AmChams Thailand Holds Asia Pacific Business Summit

The AmChams of Asia Pacific Business Summit 2023, hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AMCHAM Thailand), in partnership with Trade Winds ASEAN and the U.S. Commercial Services, recently took place over three days.

This event was the largest U.S. government trade mission, with over 100 American businesses participating, offering numerous opportunities for networking, business development, and one-on-one meetings with the U.S. Foreign Commercial Services Department to gain insights on investing in the region.

“The AmChams of Asia Pacific Business Summit 2023 brought together key players in the American and Asian business communities for a three-day event that provided valuable insights into the latest trends and challenges in the region, said AMCHAM Executive Director Heidi Gallant. Continued …

Gold prices up Bt500 to Bt31,750

The Gold Traders Assn. today announced the buying prices at 31,078 baht per baht-weight for gold ornament and 31,650 baht per baht-weight for gold bar.

The selling prices were set at 32,250 baht per baht-weight for gold ornaments, and 31,750 baht per baht-weight for gold bar.

The prices rose 500 baht from Friday’s close, the highest since March 1. Continued …

Diesel to dip to 33.5 baht a liter next week

Motorists will see another dip in diesel prices to around 33.5 baht a liter next week, down from 33.94 baht, partly attributed to falling global crude oil prices, says the Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO).

The new price, scheduled to take effect on March 24, is the third in a series of deductions made since early February when the retail price of diesel was 34.94 baht a liter.

Diesel under Platts reference prices plunged to US$103 a barrel on average in February, down from $133 in January, and declined to $102 yesterday, said Wisak Watanasap, director of the OFFO. Continued …

Draft bill sets in motion protection, legalization of sex work

A bill to protect sex workers is being drafted to legalize sex work in a bid to prevent them from exploitation.

Narong Jaihan, a lecturer from the Faculty of Law at Thammasat University, on Friday said the bill, drafted by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), will legalize sex work and limit the minimum age to provide or buy the service.

Sex workers under 20 will not be guilty, but legal action will instead be taken against business operators that employ them underage, as well as their parents, Narong said. Continued …

Thai man ‘nearly dies’ after replacing water with kratom tea

A Thai man says he “nearly died” after replacing drinking water with kratom tea. Now, he’s warning others against abusing the formally-illegal plant.

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. The leaves of the kratom tree are known for their opioid and stimulant-like effects.

Leaves of the kratom tree have been used for centuries in Thailand, in traditional medicine as well as by farmers who chew kratom leaves to sustain their energy levels while working in the fields. Continued …

Pattaya island Koh Larn draws in 130,000 tourists this month

Pattaya‘s picturesque island of Koh Larn is proving to be a hit with tourists this month, with over 130,000 tourists flocking to the island. Officials expect this number to rise as Chinese tourists start to return to the area.

Pattaya Deputy Mayor Manote Nongyai said on Wednesday that Koh Larn saw an average of 10,000 visitors per day in the first two weeks of March. Manote noted that 70% of these tourists were Thai, with the two largest foreign groups being Russians and Indians. Continued …

Bangkok’s Khao San Road hopes for Songkran boom

The Songkran festival is likely to return to Khao San Road this year, as tourism operators are discussing possible events to lure visitors after the authorities prohibited water splashing last year.

Splashing occurred on the first day of Songkran last year on Khao San Road as tourists were unaware of the prohibition, with authorities enforcing the ban for the remainder of the festival. Continued …

Is Chiang Mai Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

Out of all the cities I’ve visited worldwide, there is only a handful where I experienced “love at first sight.” Chiang Mai, the peaceful mountain city in northern Thailand, was one.

Although technically a city, its small size, laid-back atmosphere, and breathtaking mountainous scenery don’t make it feel like one. For these reasons and more, this northern Thai city is becoming increasingly popular among tourists and digital nomads.

If you’ve heard incredible things about Chiang Mai and are considering a trip here, you may wonder, “Is Chiang Mai safe?” Continued …

Russians flee for Thailand to avoid Ukraine war call-up as they ‘take over’ top resorts

Tens of thousands of Russians have fled to Thailand to escape a Ukraine war call-up. Top tourist resorts, such as Phuket, have been swamped with draft dodgers.

Some have taken over neighborhoods and have no intention of returning home.

Figures show at least 233,000 Russians have arrived on the isle of Phuket alone since November. The flood has led to a home price boom, as wealthy middle- class arrivals rent or buy to stay indefinitely on residential visas.

In Pattaya, would-be conscript Nikolai, 25, said he had traveled between Thailand, Cambodia and Laos to escape a call-up. Continued …

Why Amsterdam wants tourists to ‘stay away’

Amsterdam is taking a step closer to saying good riddance to wild bachelor parties and rowdy tourists.

The popular destination is launching a new campaign this spring aimed at curbing tourism-induced “nuisance and overcrowding” and building a more responsible visitor economy by 2035, according to the city’s tourism plan. The campaign’s new rules will impact some of the top tourist attractions: the Red Light District, river cruises, pub crawls and coffee shops.

City officials say they are tired of businesses who “abuse the city’s image to promote it as a place of ‘unlimited opportunity,’ ” according to the Vision on Tourism in Amsterdam 2035. The city has long attracted tourists from around the world wanting to experience its liberal laws around prostitution and tolerance of soft drugs. Continued …

Isan, Thailand: Unique culinary capital

Chances are you’ve already tried food from Isan, and you might not even know it. The largest region in Thailand, which hugs the border with Laos and Cambodia in the country’s northeast, has given us such classic dishes as som tum (green papaya salad) and larb (ground meat salad), and its diaspora is spreading this sour, spicy, herbaceous cooking style far and wide.

The cuisine is becoming so ubiquitous abroad, in fact, that an Isan restaurant in tiny Randolph, Vermont, called Saap, earned last year’s James Beard Award for best chef in the Northeast.

Those who venture to this off-the-beaten-path region of Thailand teeming with rice fields are rewarded with national parks and Khmer temple ruins that rival Angkor Wat, and now: Michelin-recommended restaurants. This year, the company expanded its Thailand guide to include Isan, doling out 33 Bib Gourmand designations across the region to spots like Kai Yang Saeng Thai, which has been serving its herb-marinated rotisserie chicken since 1967, and Lab Nua, known for its fiery salads and rice field snail soup. Continued and video …

Arrest warrant issued against Putin over alleged war crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant on Friday against Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of being responsible for war crimes committed in Ukraine. Russia has repeatedly denied accusations that its forces have committed atrocities during its one-year-old invasion of its neighbor. Continued …

Credit Suisse at a crossroads as stocks slide again

Credit Suisse shares fell again Friday despite being bolstered by the Swiss central bank, as investors worry about which road the embattled lender will take to try and restore confidence. Continued …

Mountain forests disappearing at alarming rate

Logging, wildfires and farming are causing mountain forests, habitat to 85% of the world’s birds, mammals and amphibians, to vanish at an alarming rate, according to a study published on Friday. Continued …

UN: Environmental threat looms as bottled water consumption grows exponentially

More than 1 million bottles of drinking water are sold globally every minute, which comes at a significant environmental, climate, and social cost, a new United Nations report said. Continued …

Golf’s ruling bodies clash with pros over plans to reduce golf ball distance

Some of the world’s top professional golfers slammed plans by golf’s ruling bodies to impose restrictions on the distance that golf balls can travel during elite tournaments. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, medical tourism, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-March 17

March 17, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Chinese (Traditional)

Hua Hin Old Days Festival March 31-April 2/
Credit Suisse’s trouble could trigger new global financial crisis, Thai experts warn/
SET allays concerns among investors over banking problems/
European stocks rebound as Credit Suisse grabs lifeline/
6 Bangkok eateries make Asia’s 50 best restaurants 51-100 list/
In Phang Nga, 165 baby sea turtles hatch and venture into the sea/
Don’t whiten teeth with nail polish’ Thai medical technologist warns/
Chiang Mai property market to soar/
Hunt for missing tube of radioactive cesium intensifies in Thailand/
Top conditions that can be treated with medical cannabis in Thailand/
Tourism: Risks, Questions, Advice When Traveling Internationally For Healthcare/Pattaya Mayor Says Songkran Is Fully On This Year/Koh Samui needs more direct flights to boost post-pandemic recovery/Thai AirAsia boosts flights from Chiang Mai to 6 international destinations/Swedish and Brazilian overstayers busted in Surat Thani/
International: Hyundai becomes world’s third-largest carmaker/Chilling past of world’s biggest brain collection/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Credit Suisse’s trouble could trigger new global financial crisis, Thai experts warn

Thailand’s most powerful business lobby group – the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking – on Thursday said it is confident the Thai banking sector will not be affected by recent bank failures in the United States and liquidity problems at Credit Suisse, but warned that the situation should be closely monitored, as it could be the start of a new financial crisis.

The impact on Thailand of Credit Suisse’s liquidity problems and the failures of America’s Silicon Valley and Signature banks is not currently a major concern, Kobsak Duangdee, secretary general of the Thai Bankers’ Assn., told a media briefing on Thursday. The association is a member of the joint standing committee.

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) regulates banks more strictly than it did before the Asian financial crisis of 1997, and most Thai banks have little exposure to the Swiss bank or the two U.S. banks that failed, Kobsak explained. Continued …

SET allays concerns among investors over banking problems

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) yesterday rushed to ease concerns after a plunge in Credit Suisse shares, reigniting worries about a possible banking crisis.

The Thai bourse, following a significant rebound on Wednesday in line with other regional markets, was down by nearly 1% in the morning session and the losses deepened in early afternoon trade.

“We insist the plunge of the SET index is caused by external factors, not internal issues,” SET President Pakorn Peetathawatchai told a press briefing yesterday. Continued …

European stocks rebound as Credit Suisse grabs lifeline

European stock markets rebounded slightly on Thursday after troubled banking giant Credit Suisse secured a big financial lifeline and before a crucial interest-rate decision by the European Central Bank.

Frankfurt, London and Paris won modest gains, a day after plunging about 3.5% over fears about the health of Credit Suisse and the wider banking system following the implosions of two U.S. lenders.

The euro advanced against the dollar ahead of the ECB’s rate decision due on Thursday. Oil prices dipped slightly after plunging to their lowest levels in 15 months on Wednesday. Continued …

6 Bangkok eateries make Asia’s 50 best restaurants 51-100 list

Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants has announced the list of venues voted between positions 51-100, created from the votes of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, an influential gender-balanced group of over 300 leaders made up of food writers, critics, chefs, restaurateurs and regional culinary experts.

• Spanning the region, the 51-100 list includes restaurants from 17 cities
• Hong Kong leads with eight places, including three new entries
• Tokyo is represented by six restaurants, including three new entries
• August, Jakarta is the recipient of the American Express One To Watch Award, and enters the list at No.95
• Singapore and Bangkok both have six establishments each
• Shanghai claims four spots on the list
• Kuala Lumpur, Seoul and Mumbai are represented by three restaurants each Continued …

In Phang Nga, 165 baby sea turtles hatch and venture into the sea

In a heartwarming event, 165 baby hawksbill sea turtles hatched and ventured into the sea in Phang Nga on Tuesday. A mother hawksbill sea turtle had laid a total of 190 eggs on Jan. 15 this year. The successful hatching of the baby turtles took place at Chong Khao Kad Bay in the Mo Ko Surin National Park. (thethaiger.com)

Don’t whiten teeth with nail polish’ Thai medical technologist warns

A Thai medical technologist is warning people not to whiten their teeth with nail polish.

A popular Facebook page, Doctor Lab Panda, warned against using nail polish to whiten teeth due to the dire health risks associated with it. Medical technologist Pakphum Dejhassadin, who runs the page, cautioned the public against the practice.

He said that some make-up artists still use nail polish to whiten teeth, particularly in beauty contests. He explained that nail polish contains many harmful substances, including carcinogens, and should never be put in the mouth. Continued …

Chiang Mai property market to soar

The Chiang Mai property market is set for a major upswing, driven by the tourism resurgence and an influx of Chinese buyers after their country reopened its borders.

Predikorn Buranupakorn, chief executive of Ornsirin Holding, a property developer in Chiang Mai, said the company is confident the province’s real estate market will see a robust uptick this year. Continued …

Hunt for missing tube of radioactive cesium intensifies in Thailand

The hunt for a missing tube of dangerous radioactive material continued in Prachinburi, after the Thai province issued a Level 2 disaster alert.

The tube of cesium-137 was discovered missing from a coal-fired power plant in Sri Maha Pho district, 160km east of Bangkok, last Friday.

Management of the National Power Plant 5A Co. plant said the tube was taken from the facility three weeks ago, on Feb. 23. Continued …

Top conditions that can be treated with medical cannabis in Thailand

With the recent legalization of cannabis in Thailand, more and more people are becoming aware of the medical benefits of cannabis. Medical marijuana, or medical cannabis, derived from the cannabis sativa plant, has been found to provide relief from symptoms associated with a variety of medical conditions.

The plant contains several active compounds, including THC and CBD, both of which have been extensively studied for their potential health benefits. Let’s explore some of the medical conditions that medical cannabis can effectively treat.

1. Cancer-Related Symptoms

Cancer treatment can cause a range of symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Medical cannabis can help alleviate these symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life. Research has demonstrated that CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, can reduce nausea and vomiting. Continued …

Risks, Questions, Advice When Traveling Internationally For Healthcare

Medical tourism is the term to describe international travel for the purpose of receiving medical care. It’s a worldwide, multibillion-dollar market that continues to grow.

Millions of people travel internationally for medical care each year. Some of the reasons are lower cost, recommendations from friends or family, the opportunities to combine medical care with a vacation, a preference for care from providers of the traveler’s culture, or to receive a procedure or treatment not available in the home country.

Negative reports of infections and other threatening complications and bad jobs in other countries demonstrate that medical tourism is  risky. Continued …

Pattaya Mayor Says Songkran Is Fully On This Year

It was already expected after several planning meetings recently, but the Pattaya Mayor’s social media accounts has confirmed the news that will please many bars and tourism businesses, as well as eager hordes of tourists, but likely frustrate some expat readers who despise the event.

After three years of Covid restrictions, and four years in total since the last non-traditional-only Songkran in 2019, the Thai New Year and the famous water fights return.

This means those wanting to avoid the water have a warning well in advance and those planning trips and holidays for Songkran have the reassurance that, unlike prior years, the famous, but polarizing, water fights will be allowed. Continued …

Koh Samui needs more direct flights to boost post-pandemic recovery

The Koh Samui Tourism Assn. chief is urging authorities to enhance the island’s tourist infrastructure and increase flight capacity to boost a full post-pandemic recovery of the popular holiday resort.

Association President Ratchaporn Poolsawadee revealed that only 70% of independent hotels with three- or four-star have resumed operations following the pandemic. This is due to slow cash flow in comparison to hotels operated by international chains. In some cases, resuming hotel operations can cost as much as starting a new business. Continued …

Thai AirAsia boosts flights from Chiang Mai to 6 international destinations

Low-cost carrier Thai AirAsia will soon boost flights daily from Chiang Mai Airport in northern Thailand to six international destinations, including Hanoi and Da Nang in Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.

Flights will run to these Asian tourist hotspots every day starting Sunday, March 26.

The budget airline is celebrating the boost in flights with a Songkran (Thai New Year) promotion for tickets bought via the AirAsia Super App. Continued …

Swedish and Brazilian overstayers busted in surat Thani

A Swedish man and a Brazilian man were busted in south Thailand’s Surat Thani province for overstaying their visas in Thailand this week.

Surat Thani Immigration officers arrested the Swedish man in Koh Samui, on Chaweng Beach Road in front of Central Samui, in the Pho Phut subdistrict. The man, 34-year-old Christopher Tony Setfors, overstayed his visa by 75 days. The officers brought Setfors to Bo Phut Police Station to face overstaying charges and await further legal proceedings.

Officers arrested the Brazillian on Monday at Surat Thani Hospital in the Markham Tia subdistrict of the main city district. The man, 64-year-old Pinto Adilson Brasileiro, overstayed his visa by 10 days. Continued …

Hyundai becomes world’s third-largest carmaker

Hyundai Motor Group has become the world’s third-largest carmaker in terms of sales, an impressive feat after more than two decades when, in 2000, the South Korean auto giant made it to the global top 10 list. Continued …

Chilling past of world’s biggest brain collection

Countless shelves line the walls of a basement at Denmark’s University of Odense, holding what is thought to be the world’s largest collection of brains. There are 9,479 of the organs, all removed from the corpses of mental health patients over the course of four decades until the 1980s. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. 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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

90-day online reporting











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