All posts by Hua Hin Expat News
Friday’s News-Dec 30
- Hua Hin Dustman Gravel races March 4-5/Hua Hin Bikini Run March 25/Best Western opens first resort in Hua Hin/What’s hot and what’s not in the year to come/Bank of Thailand updates Thai economic recovery momentum/Business associations succeed in lowering rise in power price/Massive investment planned for new Smart City in Eastern Economic Corridor/Mass New Year exodus from Bangkok to Isaan begins/Two male foreign bodies found floating near Racha Island, Phuket/More than 30 Thais feared dead in Poipet casino inferno/Forgetful husband accidently abandons wife on a road trip after taking a quick leak/Deadly clashes continue between Myanmar troops and Karen rebels near Thai border/
- Tourism: The outlook for Tourism in Thailand in 2023/2022 marks revival of Thailand’s tourism after two years in the wilderness/No Special Measures for Chinese Visitors/Phuket eyes Bt100-billion New Year windfall/
- Thailand Experience: Thai Basil To Lemongrass, Ingredients That Complete Thai Food/The best new restaurants in Bangkok/15 Best Places to Visit in Thailand/
- Covid: What new Covid restrictions are Chinese travelers facing?/
- International: Russia pummels Ukraine’s power and water sectors/Brazilian Soccer Legend Pelé Dead At 82/US winter storm death toll rises to 61/
- Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
Best Western opens first resort in Hua Hin
Best Western Hotels and Resorts has continued to expand its portfolio with the launch of its inaugural property in Hua Hin: Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Hua Hin.
Set around a series of lagoon pools in Khao Tao, just 10 minutes south of Hua Hin and approximately 2.5 hours drive from Bangkok, the resort features a free-flowing organic design, a wide range of accommodations and facilities for leisure and business. Continued …
What’s hot and what’s not in the year to come
Trends change by the year, with some things in and others out, and 2023 will be no exception. Remember when the SMS was “in” some years ago? Here’s what we predict will be making a splash or quietly bowing out in the next 12 months.
In – cashless, out – coins and banknotes
Credit where it is due. The government’s “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment scheme has made cashless payment widespread, accelerating it with sellers, including street vendors who are learning to accept payment via the scheme. Another reason, on the buyer’s side, is the pandemic, which made people afraid of contracting Covid through contaminated coins and banknotes.
A couple of years back, we’d never imagined leaving home without a wallet. Now those pockets can stay empty as long as you have a smartphone with you. Even better, a purchase – no matter how small the amount is – can be done via a number of cashless methods. Credit cards can’t do that 40 or 50 baht payment. Continued …
Bank of Thailand updates Thai economic recovery momentum
The Bank of Thailand (BoT) says the Thai economy is still in a recovery mode, and that the momentum was driven by the continuous recovery of the service sector following the increase in the number of foreign tourists and the improvement in private consumption indicators.
Chayawadee Chai-Anant, assistant governor at BoT, said the the Thai economy was still in a recovery direction. The momentum was driven by the continuously recovering service sector following the increasing number of foreign tourists.
She said that seasonally adjusted number of foreign tourists increased from the previous month from many nationalities, especially Europe and the United States. Continued …
Business associations succeed in lowering rise in power price
The cost of electricity for businesses will not rise as much in January as proposed earlier this month, following an intensive and coordinated effort by Thailand’s largest business associations to prevent what they described as a crippling rise in the fuel tariff (Ft) rate.
The Energy Regulatory Commission has approved a decision by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to reduce a rise in the Ft rate during the first quarter of next year, commission Secretary-general Komkrit Tantravanich said on Thursday.
The Ft rate is determined by the cost of fuel used for generating electricity and the cost of buying power from private generating plants. Continued …
Massive investment planned for new Smart City in Eastern Economic Corridor
The government will invest 1.35 trillion baht to transform the eastern seaboard’s Eastern Economic Corridor (ECC) into a regional financial hub and a world-class smart city by 2037, deputy government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said on Thursday.
(What is a Smart City? A smart city is typically a kind of municipal Internet of Things – a network of cameras and sensors that can see, hear and even smell. These sensors, especially video cameras, generate massive amounts of data that can serve many civic purposes like helping traffic flow smoothly.)
In the first 10 years, the focus will be developing the business and financial area, regional business offices, government offices, medical facilities, and educational centers, she said.
This will be followed by creating a world-class smart city by 2037 to serve as a model for the development of smart cities across the country, Rachada added. Continued …
Mass New Year exodus from Bangkok to Isaan begins
The mass exodus for New Year from the Thai capital Bangkok to the northeastern Isaan region has begun in earnest. To accommodate the traffic, special lanes were introduced to ease the flow in the area of Wang Noi at KM 106.
Police in the city of Saraburi also opened a special lane under the turn-off bridge and from KM marker 17 to 43, Thap Kwang to Klang Dong.
Gas stations were opening past regular hours, as large numbers of people used their facilities for fuel and rest stops. Continued …
Two male foreign bodies found floating near Racha Island, Phuket
Two bodies of male foreigners were found floating in the sea near the Racha Island, south of Phuket.
The Royal Thai Navy said that at 12:35pm yesterday they were notified from a tour boat captain that two bodies were found floating near the Rang Gai Beach, east of the Racha Noi Island off the Chalong area.
At 4:50pm, the Royal Thai Navy and rescue divers arrived at the scene to find two bodies tied with ropes connected together with a floating life jacket and a buoy. Continued …
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
- Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
- You get to use our facilities
- You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
- You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
- You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht
That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
More than 30 Thais feared dead in Poipet casino inferno
Thai rescuers estimated that more than 30 Thai nationals perished in the massive blaze that engulfed the 355-room Grand Diamond City Hotel and Casino in the Cambodian border town of Poipet late Wednesday night, while a Cambodian official warned that the death toll could rise to the hundreds.
Banteay Meanchey provincial spokesman Sek Sokhom said late Thursday afternoon that the death toll could rise to the hundreds. He said the casino complex had 400 staff and an unknown number of guests. Anyone trapped in a room during the fire can be presumed dead, he said.
Rescue officials from Thai foundations who crossed the border from Sa Kaew’s Aranyaprathet district to the impoverished casino town on the Cambodian side of the border, said they retrieved bodies believed to be Thai. Continued …
Forgetful husband accidently abandons wife on a road trip after taking a quick leak
For richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, till death us do part, and in an emergency toilet break situation, every marriage is tested to some degree. And, an absent-minded husband truly tested the strength of his marriage on a road trip last week.
He pulled over by the roadside to quickly take a leak before climbing back into the car and driving off – leaving his wife behind who had wandered into a nearby jungle for a pee.
Boontom Chaimoon and his wife, Amnuay Chaimoon, took a road trip on Sunday to spend the seasonal holidays in her hometown in the Maha Sarakham Province. Continued …
Deadly clashes continue between Myanmar troops and Karen rebels near Thai border
More than 1,000 resistance forces were involved in a fierce battle against Myanmar junta troops at a Karen town near the border with Thailand.
Reports said many people were killed and injured in the armed clashes that have continued for over two weeks in a battle for the control of Kawkareik, a town in Myanmar’s Karen State.
The exact number of casualties could not be independently confirmed. Continued …
The outlook for Tourism in Thailand in 2023
Thailand is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and delicious food. In 2023, the Thailand Tourism Authority (TAT) has announced a new plan to attract even more visitors to the country.
One of the main focuses of the 2023 tourism plan is sustainability. TAT has pledged to reduce the environmental impact of tourism and promote eco-friendly practices throughout the industry. This includes efforts to reduce plastic waste, protect natural habitats, and encourage sustainable transportation.
In addition to sustainability, TAT is also focusing on promoting diversity and inclusivity in its tourism efforts. This includes efforts to showcase the country’s diverse cultural heritage and promote equal access for all visitors, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. Continued …
2022 marks revival of Thailand’s tourism after two years in the wilderness
After bolting the doors for two years following the outbreak of the pandemic, Thailand decided to fully reopen the country in 2022, removing the COVID-19 restrictions that had throttled tourism, a key engine of economic growth.
Before fully reopening, Thailand had begun a carefully planned, phased and controlled return of international tourists beginning July 1, 2021. The Phuket Sandbox, Samui Plus, and 7+7 Extension programs were implemented with caution to ensure COVID cases would not soar. This was followed by a four-phase reopening time line from October 2021 to January 2022 in which destinations throughout the country were reopened to tourists.
On July 1 this year, the government removed the Thailand Pass registration requirement, allowing foreign nationals to arrive if they could show proof of vaccination or a negative antigen test taken not later than 72 hours before the flight. Continued …
No Special Measures for Chinese Visitors
The country will not need any strict disease control measure for Chinese visitors, the public health minister said.
Anutin Charnvirakul, public health minister and deputy prime minister, said officials from the Department of Disease Control, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Ministry of Transport discussed measures to be imposed in response to China’s planned country reopening on Jan. 8, and they agreed that existing measures would be enough.
The Chinese government required outbound Chinese travelers to undergo RT-PCR tests for COVID-19 and receive at least three doses of COVID-19 vaccine. Most Chinese people had natural antibodies for COVID-19 also because 60% of the Chinese population already contracted the disease, Anutin said. Continued …
Phuket eyes Bt100-billion New Year windfall
Phuket expects to earn more than 100 billion baht in revenue from tourism during the New Year period.
Bhumikitti Ruktaengam, advisory chairman of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said on Thursday the situation is rebounding quickly in the resort island during the New Year period, as hotel room reservation rates on Kata, Karon, Patong, and Nai Harn beaches are averaging 70%. Continued …
Thai Basil To Lemongrass, Ingredients That Complete Thai Food
Thai food is incredibly effective at drawing foodies under its spell of flavor. You’ll be compelled to indulge in their decadent sweets, flavorful appetizers, fragrant sauces, and rich and creamy curries again and time again.
It takes talent to master, but the secret to making any Thai cuisine is to balance the five essential flavors of sour, bitter, salty, sweet, and spicy. As a result, no Thai food is ever monotonous and always gives your taste the much-needed punch.
Almost all Thai dishes start with a paste. Although you can buy pre-made Thai pastes (such red, yellow, and green curry), they won’t have the same flavor and scent, much alone the nutrition, of a paste produced from scratch. Continued …
The best new restaurants in Bangkok
What a year to eat out. Slowly yet stylishly reclaiming the steps we had fallen during the dark period of 2020-2021, the year 2022 saw Bangkok’s food and beverage scene gently rock up on its feet again. Here are all the new restaurants we loved this year.
New bar and restaurant openings were aplenty, new menus were flung left and right, and some of the world’s most renowned chefs visited our city, beautifully continuing to mark it as one of the greatest culinary hubs in the region.
We hosted the Asia’s 50 Best Bar Awards in Bangkok for the first time at the beginning of the year, as well as the Top 50 Pizza Asia Pacific ceremony. On the former, we saw five entries, and on the latter we were proud of five entries. Continued …
15 Best Places to Visit in Thailand
A list of must-dos holiday destinations for countless individuals, Thailand genuinely has everything: the turbulent appeal of Bangkok, the legendary tropical wildernesses, probably the best road food on the planet, and palm-lined sea shores that appear to continue for eternity.
Whatever your justification behind getting away to the place that is known for grins, Thailand will not frustrate. Assuming that you’re exploring locations and what should be done on your next tropical getaway, look at our rundown of the most ideal getaway spots in Thailand.
11. Hua Hin
While simply a calm town most popular for being the lord’s mid-year retreat, Hua Hin has turned into a well-known ocean-side hotel destination. Try not to expect wonderful turquoise waters or vivacious ocean-side life here; however, this is to a greater extent an objective for those meeting with family, or singles who need to sunbathe in harmony, away from the groups. Continued …
What new Covid restrictions are Chinese travelers facing?
Countries are imposing or considering imposing curbs on travelers from China amid a Covid-19 surge there after authorities relaxed “zero-Covid” rules.
They cite a lack of information from China on variants and are concerned about a wave of infections. China has rejected criticism of its Covid data and said it expects future mutations to be potentially more transmissible but less severe.
Below is a list of new regulations for travelers from China. Continued …
Russia pummels Ukraine’s power and water sectors
Doubling down on its efforts to use winter as a weapon, Russia launched its fiercest attack in weeks Thursday, battering Ukrainian power and water infrastructure amid freezing temperatures. Continued …
Brazilian Soccer Legend Pelé Dead At 82
Pelé, the Brazilian king of soccer who won a record three World Cups and became one of the most commanding sports figures of the last century, died Thursday. He was 82. Continued …
US winter storm death toll rises to 61
The death toll from a fierce winter storm that gripped much of the United States over Christmas rose to at least 61 on Thursday, officials said. Continued …
Thursday’s News-Dec 29
- Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hua Hin/PKK sea embankment project back on track/Which Thai provinces drink the most alcohol/Top 5 foreign nationalities buying condos in Thailand in 2022/Grab predicts 2023 consumer trends/6 still missing from HTMS Sukhothai after grim discoveries in Chumphon/Reopening propels fuel consumption/Rapidly spreading yellow-band disease killing Thailand’s coral reefs/Bridgestone Installs Solar Rooftop Panels At Its Thailand Plant/Thai police arrest gang of Chinese visa over-stayers in Bangkok/5 beauty fanatics share skin-care tips and thoughts on CBD oil/
- Tourism: Thailand anticipates windfall from China’s easing of travel restrictions/Tourism Authority shifts goal to 25 million tourists in 2023 after China reopens borders/Pattaya packing 3-day firework show into single countdown explosion/Air rage incident on Thai Smile Airways flight from Bangkok to Kolkata/
- Thailand Experience: Eight ‘must-see’ flower gardens in Chiang Mai’s Mae Rim district/Unique coffee brew is drawing tourists to a mountain top in Tak province/
- Covid: Call for tourist booster shots as Chinese return/US, others will require COVID-19 testing for travelers from China/
- International: At least 10 feared dead in Thai-owned, Cambodia casino inferno/Record 6,036 American kids killed or injured by gunfire in 2022/Travel misery grinds on as US digs out from superstorm/
- Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hua Hin
PKK sea embankment project back on track
Conservationists and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Prachuap Khiri Khan have withdrawn their protests against the construction of a controversial sea embankment at Mae Ram Phueng beach in Bang Saphan district.
The decision means authorities can now resume the project’s construction after a year-long hiatus, which was prompted by the protests.
Those who had been opposed to the embankment’s construction said they would allow the authorities to continue work but required the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning (DPT) to adapt the design to support biodiversity on the beach. Continued …
Which Thai provinces drink the most alcohol
Earlier this week, a doctor gave a lecture about provincial alcohol consumption in Thailand at a conference held by the Center of Addiction Studies in Bangkok.
Dr. Athip Tan-Aree, MD, from Srithanya Hospital in Nonthaburi province, revealed the results of a nationwide survey that asked 84,000 Thai respondents questions about their alcohol drinking habits.
The survey found that 28% of respondents over 15 years old or more drank alcohol in the past 12 months. Results showed that 9% of 15-to-19-year-olds drank alcohol, despite the law forbidding the sale of alcohol to anyone under 20 years old. Continued …
Top 5 foreign nationalities buying condos in Thailand in 2022
Chinese nationals bought the most condos out of any foreign nationality in Thailand this year despite the difficulties posed by Beijing’s strict Covid-19 restrictions, which are finally easing up after three years.
In Thailand, foreigners are permitted to own 49% of the units in any condominium building. The remaining 51% must have Thai ownership.
Although fewer Chinese bought condos in Thailand this year than in previous years, Chinese owners are still dominating the foreign condo market, accounting for almost half of all condos bought by foreigners in the first 9 months of 2022. Continued …
Grab predicts 2023 consumer trends
Super-app Grab has underscored healthy menus, afternoon snacks and delivery subscriptions as consumer trends that merchants should pay attention to next year.
The trends are shown in a survey of users of food delivery GrabFood and grocery delivery GrabMart, as part of the “Food & Grocery Trends 2022” report.
The report gauged the opinions of more than 30,000 users in six ASEAN countries, including Thailand. Continued …
6 still missing from HTMS Sukhothai after grim discoveries in Chumphon
The bodies of two more crewmen from the ill-fated HTMS Sukhothai were retrieved on Wednesday morning, leaving six still missing, the Royal Thai Navy said.
Vice Admiral Pichai Lorchusakul, commander of the First Naval Area, said a Chumphon fishing patrol boat was alerted at 8.30am that a body had washed onto a beach on the holiday island of Koh Samet, 3 kilometers from the mainland.
Pichai said the patrol boat alerted the Rak Sal Dhama Paknam Chumphon Rescue Foundation to retrieve the body. Continued …
Reopening propels fuel consumption
The full reopening of the country from July drove fuel consumption, which grew by 14% year-on-year over the first 11 months of 2022, says the Department of Energy Business.
From January to November, consumption of fuels, covering diesel, gasoline and gasohol, jet fuel, fuel oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), kerosene and compressed natural gas, stood at 150 million liters per day (MLD).
Jet fuel consumption saw the highest growth of 90% to 8.7 MLD, up from 4.7 MLD in the same period last year, said department chief Nanthika Thangsupanich. Continued …
Rapidly spreading yellow-band disease killing Thailand’s coral reefs
Underneath the calm turquoise waters off eastern Thailand, a rapidly spreading disease is killing corals over vast stretches of the sea floor, and scientists fear it may be getting worse because of climate change.
Yellow-band disease – named for the color it turns corals before destroying them – was first spotted decades ago and has caused widespread damage to reef in the Caribbean. There is no known cure.
But it was detected for the first-time off Thailand’s eastern coast just last year, near the popular tourist city of Pattaya, and has already spread over roughly 600 acres (240 hectares) of the sea. Continued …
Bridgestone Installs Solar Rooftop Panels At Its Thailand Plant
Thai Bridgestone Co. has installed solar rooftop panels to directly power the tire production process in its Nong Khae plant, in Saraburi province.
The largest solar rooftop panel among the Bridgestone Group with a total capacity of 9.95 MWp, is expected to generate a 97,500 tons reduction in total CO2 emissions over the next 15 years.
The solar rooftop panels installation will inspire carbon neutrality across the business and is an inspirational step in it reaching Bridgestone’s vision as a sustainable solutions company by 2050 and reinforces the importance of a tire production base in Thailand, the company said. Continued …
Thai police arrest gang of Chinese visa over-stayers in Bangkok
Thailand’s Immigration Police arrested a gang of Chinese visa over-stayers in the Chatuchak district of Bangkok yesterday.
On Monday, North Bangkok District Court issued a search warrant for a property in Soi Sermsuk to investigate a group of “suspicious aliens.”
Officers from the Immigration Bureau searched the property yesterday and found that seven Chinese nationals were staying there. All seven had visas, but five were out of date. Police didn’t say how long the five had overstayed in the kingdom. Continued …
5 beauty fanatics share skin-care tips and thoughts on CBD oil
From snails to seaweed, anti-aging and skin care trends aren’t new in Thailand. And with cannabis being the hot topic in 2022, can high-quality hemp and CBD oil be the next biggest thing?
CBD experts from Bloom asked five different beauty fanatics their opinions about adding CBD oil to their routines. Who knows, you might be inspired to add CBD Oil to your own skin care routine. Continued …
Thailand anticipates windfall from China’s easing of travel restrictions
Thailand is expected to benefit from China’s recent easing of travel restrictions, and Thai tourism and tourism-related businesses are preparing to cope with a surge in Chinese tourists after three years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith has predicted that the number of foreign tourists visiting Thailand next year is expected to double, from this year’s 11 million, excluding Chinese tourists who are expected to visit Thailand in droves after the relaxation of travel restrictions imposed upon them by the Chinese government under its “zero infection” policy.
An executive of a hotel in the Vibhavadi Rangsit area of Bangkok said that many hotels are revising their plans to cope with the return of Chinese tourists. Continued …
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
- Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
- You get to use our facilities
- You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
- You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
- You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht
That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
Tourism Authority shifts goal to 25 million tourists in 2023 after China reopens borders
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revised its target for international tourists in 2023, aiming to attract 25 million instead of the previously planned 20 million, after China announced an end to Covid-induced border closures.
The Chinese government also canceled all quarantine measures and restrictions on flights that will go into effect on Jan. 8.
As for the TAT, Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said he would propose to the government to extend the period of stay for three groups of foreign travelers arriving in Thailand until Dec. 31, 2023, to attract foreign visitors, especially Chinese, to stay and spend more in Thailand. Continued …
Pattaya packing 3-day firework show into single countdown explosion
Pattaya has relit the fuse for New Year’s Eve celebrations by announcing the city’s countdown fireworks display will be held after all on Dec. 31.
On Wednesday, the resort city reversed its earlier decision to call off the New Year fireworks display – one of the country’s largest – amid nationwide prayers for the recovery of HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati.
Firework displays were originally scheduled for Dec. 29-31, along with countdown concerts and fairs throughout the three days at Bali Hai Pier in Bang Lamung district. Continued …
Air rage incident on Thai Smile Airways flight from Bangkok to Kolkata
Footage of an air rage incident emerged yesterday of two Indian passengers swapping punches on a flight from Bangkok to Kolkata in India.
A passenger recorded footage of the fracas and uploaded it to social media where it quickly went viral. It captures two men swapping insults, then punches after boarding a Thai Smile Airways flight that was set to take off from Bangkok and arrive in Kolkata on Tuesday afternoon.
Co-passengers and cabin crew can be heard yelling at the men to stop fighting. Continued …
Eight ‘must-see’ flower gardens in Chiang Mai’s Mae Rim district
For those seeking to enjoy and pose for photos in beautiful fields with a rich range of flowers in bright shades of colors during the New Year holidays, a trip to Mae Rim district in the northern province of Chiang Mai is a must.
There are eight flower gardens in Mae Rim that people could consider visiting to enjoy the natural splendor and take colorful photos. Continued …
Unique coffee brew is drawing tourists to a mountain top in Tak province
The Tak provincial office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand is encouraging more tourists to visit Doi Muser mountaintop to sample the unique Arabica coffee grown there.
The coffee beans harvested on the mountain have a unique taste and aroma, and they have transformed the area into a tourism destination, said Thamolwan Charoenwongpisit, director of the tourism agency’s office in the province.
The coffee beans are in the process of being registered as a geographical indication product of Doi Muse, Thamolwan added. Continued …
Call for tourist booster shots as Chinese return
The Tourism and Sports Ministry hopes to offer Covid-19 booster shots to tourists and Thai tourism workers in preparation for the return of Chinese travelers.
Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said this would be a worthwhile investment, as vaccine prices are now lower, at around a few hundred baht per shot.
Phiphat said if the average tourist spent 40,000 baht, with 7% value-added tax collected from that expenditure, the value would exceed the vaccine prices. Continued …
US, others will require COVID-19 testing for travelers from China
The U.S. announced new COVID-19 testing requirements Wednesday for all travelers from China, joining other nations imposing restrictions because of a surge of infections.
The increase in cases across China follows the rollback of the nation’s strict anti-virus controls. China’s “zero COVID” policies had kept China’s infection rate low but fueled public frustration and crushed economic growth.
Beginning Jan. 5, all travelers to the U.S. from China will be required to take a COVID-19 test no more than two days before travel and provide a negative test before boarding their flight. The testing applies to anyone 2 years and older. Continued …
At least 10 feared dead in Thai-owned Cambodia casino inferno
Firefighters struggled to control a huge blaze that broke out at the Grand Diamond City Hotel and Casino in Poipet on the Thai-Cambodian border at 11pm on Wednesday. Unconfirmed reports say 10 people have died at the scene so far after victims were seen jumping from the fifth floor of the blazing building. Continued …
Record 6,036 American kids killed or injured by gunfire in 2022
With just a few days left until the new year, 2022 has already set a grim record: so far, at least 6,036 children across the United States have been killed or injured by gunfire, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Continued …
Travel misery grinds on as US digs out from superstorm
Thousands more flights were canceled across the United States on Wednesday, with no end in sight to days of travel misery as the country digs out from a deadly superstorm. Continued …
Wednesday’s News-Dec 28
- Interior Ministry issues urgent order for New Year celebrations/Price hikes to affect over 7,000 food, drink products/Thailand readies for turbulent economic ride/Environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022/Thai navy intensifies hunt for 8 missing HTMS Sukhothai crew/DDC allays brain-eating amoeba fears/The 5 S’s of Wine Tasting/Thailand’s Plastic Waste Conundrum/Manufacturing falls in November amid global economic slowdown/Thai exports exceed 2022 target despite end-of-year slump/Export sector outlook looks bleak as global economy heads into tailspin /Seven key trends expected to influence financial services in 2023/National Parks chief charged with massive corruption/Meet the food waste fighters/Indian man arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstay/Pakistani Man Arrested in Patong for 3,270 Days of Overstay/
- Tourism: Thai tourism industry waits expectantly as China scraps travel restrictions/Chinese tourism influx raises fears/No immediate surge of Chinese tourists expected after re-opening/Bangkok airport girds for New Year travelers/Phuket’s Russian Revolution/New Zealand Tourist Dies In Fall From Kanchanaburi Train/
- Thailand Experience: Chiang Mai is the trendy new travel spot: 7 things you must do when you go/Eastern Thailand: Why Travel to this Underrated Region/
- Covid: Current vaccines ‘will do’ for coming year: ministry/
- International: Massive flight cancellations leave thousands of suitcases stranded at US airports/Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that impose price cap/
- Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
Interior Ministry issues urgent order for New Year celebrations
The Interior Ministry has issued five rules for New Year celebrations in an urgent order sent to all provincial governors.
Issued on Monday, the ministry order explains that government agencies and the private sector can still organize celebrations, but organizers must strictly stick to the following five rules:
- Entertainment venues must close at specified hours and keep underage people, weapons, drugs and other illegal items out of their premises. Continued …
Price hikes to affect over 7,000 food, drink products
The price of many food and beverage products will rise early next year by an average of 18% between January and Apri, according to a survey of 105 major companies compiled by credit research firm Teikoku Databank, as of today.
Price hikes will affect 7,152 items, more than 1.5 times the number from the same period this year, with some products such as frozen and wheat-based foods seeing a further increase.
Original figures compiled as of the end of November showed that 4,425 items would be affected by price hikes. However, the last 20 days have seen the number of products rise by 1.6 times. Manufacturers are believed to have pushed forward with further price increases in the face of higher costs in areas such as materials, transportation and labor. Continued …
Thailand readies for turbulent economic ride
As global interest rates continued to rise in 2022 to tame persistently high inflation, the Bank of Thailand and its governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput are being scrutinized as the business sector watches the direction of Thai interest rates.
Aggressive monetary policy this year to curb inflation was led by the U.S. Federal Reserve. The Fed began to increase its policy benchmark rate from March and deployed a hawkish monetary policy throughout the year.
Despite the tight monetary policy of the Fed, the Bank of Thailand has maintained its normalization of policy rates on a gradual basis, in accordance with the slow recovery of the Thai economy compared with other countries. Continued …
Environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022
From floods and extreme weather, to climate change and the adoption of the bio-circular-green economy, the environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022.
For Thais, especially those who reside in low-lying areas and flood plains, 2022 was another year of floods and extreme weather.
Throughout the year, Thailand experienced a series of unseasonal weather events and unusually intense rainfall, which led to major floods in many parts of the country. Continued …
Thai navy intensifies hunt for 8 missing HTMS Sukhothai crew
The Royal Thai Navy announced that eight sailors of the doomed HTMS Sukhothai are still missing after two bodies were retrieved on Tuesday morning.
The navy said that 76 of the 105 crew members of the warship were rescued, 21 were confirmed dead and eight still missing.
Vice Admiral Pichai Lorchusakul, commander of the First Naval Area, said the navy’s drone had spotted a body near Koh Sak close to the coast of Chumphon’s Muang district at 8.36am. Continued …
DDC allays brain-eating amoeba fears
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) said a brain disease caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly referred to as “brain-eating amoeba”, is not contagious between people.
The announcement came after The Korea Herald reported on Monday that a Korean national in his 50s died last Wednesday of the brain disease after returning from a four-month stay in Thailand.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), his genetic tests for three types of pathogens causing Naegleria fowleri were 99.6% similar to those found in a meningitis patient reported abroad. Continued …
The 5 S’s of Wine Tasting
Thailand’s rapidly emerging wine culture is now centering on Hua Hin, with a growing number of sophisticated wine bars offering a huge range of wines from important wine growing regions across the world, but importantly an internationally awarded vineyard at the city’s doorsteps.
The Monsoon Valley Vineyard now also features a wine sampling cellar and on the 2022 Harvest Festival (Feb. 18-23), offers the ideal opportunity to discover what’s so special about Thailand’s best wines.
You may believe that a wine-tasting procedure is unnecessarily tedious; after all, why not just drink and enjoy it? In truth, there’s something mystical about wine tasting when you learn to use all of your senses, so let’s explore the 5 S’s in wine tasting. Continued …
Thailand’s Plastic Waste Conundrum
Despite the Thai government’s ban on four more types of single-use plastics in 2022, up to 250,000 tons of imported plastic waste from other nations continues to flow into the country annually through the international plastic waste trade.
Thailand is trying to stay the course with further efforts to mitigate plastic pollution, but there are still challenges in waste sorting and collection on the ground.
In 2019, the Thai Cabinet also approved the “Road Map on Plastic Waste Management” for the period 2020 to 2030 as the policy framework for related agencies to work on in pursuit of the targets. This includes a ban on seven types of single-use plastics and to completely recycle domestic plastic waste within the designated time frames in the road map. Continued …
Manufacturing falls in November amid global economic slowdown
Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) fell in November by 5.6% year-on-year to 95.11 points, the lowest in 15 months, as oil refineries were shut down for maintenance while a global economic slowdown began to affect exporters, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
Officials expect the MPI for the whole year to grow by 1%, down from an earlier prediction of 1.9%.
“A global economic slowdown could lead to a recession, which will affect the Thai export sector,” said Warawan Chitaroon, acting director-general of the OIE. Continued …
Thai exports exceed 2022 target despite end-of-year slump
Exports rose 7.6% in the first 11 months of 2022 to US$265.34 billion, or 9.16 trillion baht, exceeding the target of 9 trillion baht for the whole year, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said on Tuesday.
Cross-border trade in the same period was worth 944 billion baht, down 0.51% from the previous year.
However, exports in November were down 6% on last year to $22.3 billion, while imports rose 5.6% to $23.65 billion. December’s export figures are also expected to drop from last year amid the ongoing global economic slowdown. Continued …
Export sector outlook looks bleak as global economy heads into tailspin
Thailand’s exports contracted by 6% in November due to a decline in external demand, but rising economic activities from tourism recovery allowed manufacturing outputs to expand 1.41% last month, government agencies said.
Export value contracted by 6% to US$ 22.31 billion in November due to the slowdown of the global economy, the Ministry of Commerce said.
This was the second consecutive month of decline in exports after a 4.4% dip seen during October. Continued …
Seven key trends expected to influence financial services in 2023
Cloud, real-time payments, and embedded finance are among seven key financial trends predicted for 2023, Mambu, a cloud banking platform, has revealed.
The prediction by the world’s leading financial services firms is included in Mambu’s annual “Partner Predictions” report, which highlights the top financial trends expected to influence the industry in 2023, as businesses try to survive and thrive in a volatile macroeconomic environment.
The report features insightful commentary from industry leaders from the fintech and financial services sectors, including executives from AWS, Backbase, Deloitte, Google Cloud, and others. Continued …
National Parks chief charged with massive corruption
The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry has launched an internal investigation of National Parks chief Rutchada Suriyakul na Ayutthaya after he was arrested and charged with malfeasance and bribery on Tuesday.
Anti-Corruption Division (ACD) police detained Rutchada during a bribery sting operation at his Chatuchak office in Bangkok on Tuesday morning.
After the shock arrest, ministry Permanent Secretary Jatuporn Buruspat issued an order to form a panel for a seven-day investigation. Continued …
Meet the food waste fighters
Thailand ranked 9th on the 2021 Global Climate Risk Index of countries most affected by “extreme weather events” between 2010 and 2019.
One of the factors contributing to climate change is food waste. When organic material decomposes in landfills, it emits the greenhouse gas methane, which is far more potent than CO2. Hence, the quickest way to save the planet is to reduce the amount of food waste.
“Food waste actually starts from the harvesting of the raw material up to consumption, to the food on the plate. All the way up from the harvest to consumption we consider the waste so, all in all, globally we have about 30% of the food produced and processed being wasted. This is remarkable and is a lot. Continued …
Indian man arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstay
A 44-year-old Indian man was arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstaying his legal visa conditions. The Phuket Immigration Office said they have arrested Anil Dutt, an Indian national, on Phra Baramee Road in Patong. Continued …
Pakistani Man Arrested in Patong for 3,270 Days of Overstay
A 35-year-old Pakistani man was arrested in Patong for 3,270 days of overstaying his legal visa conditions the Phuket Immigration Office reported Monday. They arrested Anjum Raza, a Pakistani national, on Phra Baramee Road in Patong. Continued …
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
- Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
- You get to use our facilities
- You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
- You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
- You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht
That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
Thai tourism industry waits expectantly as China scraps travel restrictions
Thailand’s tourism industry can expect a boost from China’s move to scrap measures on overseas travel of its citizens from Jan. 8, the Tourism Council of Chiang Mai said on Tuesday.
China’s National Health Commission announced the move on Monday after nearly three years of strict pandemic border restrictions effectively prevented tourists from leaving the country.
Visitors from China were Thailand’s largest tourism market before the pandemic struck in 2020. Continued …
Chinese tourism influx raises fears
An overload of tourists and an overwhelmed Thai healthcare system are issues to monitor next year after China fully reopens, with up to 500,000 tourists projected to start traveling during Chinese New Year.
Even though the tourism sector applauded the announcement from Beijing that it is lifting most entry requirements from Jan. 8, except for a pre-arrival Covid-19 test, tourism operators were concerned about an imbalance between supply and demand.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said China’s reopening would lead TAT to revise its target for foreign arrivals from 20 million to more than 25 million in 2023. Continued …
No immediate surge of Chinese tourists expected after re-opening
China’s relaxation of Covid-19 rules for international arrivals has raised hopes that its multi-billion dollar travel business will soon flourish again but countries longing for the return of Chinese tourists will likely face more of a wait.
China’s National Health Commission announced on Monday that inbound travelers would no longer have to go into quarantine from Jan. 8. There are no official restrictions on Chinese people going abroad but the new rule will make it much easier for them to return home.
China was the world’s largest outbound tourism market before Covid shut down global travel, with its overseas visitors spending US$27.5 billion on travel in 2019. Continued …
Bangkok airport girds for New Year travelers
The number of outbound and inbound travelers passing through Suvarnabhumi airport is expected to surge to an average of 145,000 per day during the New Year period.
Kittipong Kittikachorn, director of Suvarnabhumi airport, on Tuesday said the daily number would bring the total number of travelers coming through the airport to 1.01 million during Dec. 29–Jan. 4. Continued …
Phuket’s Russian Revolution
Phuket is busy again, for the first time since April 2020 when the government closed off the airports and passenger arrivals into Thailand, because of the Covid pandemic.
While the surge of tourists, principally from a couple of countries, is a very welcome return to business for many hotels, tour companies, restaurants and tourist-related businesses, the current arrival numbers could provide some stark warnings for the island’s sustainability as a tourism destination.
Without getting into the specific geo-politics, we should at least be completely transparent about how the current rush to repopulate Phuket with tourism customers may have some unforeseen consequences. Continued …
New Zealand Tourist Dies In Fall From Kanchanaburi Train
A tourist from New Zealand slipped and fell from the train that had slowed down for passengers to take photos at Kanchanaburi’s Krasae Cave, which was the camp of POWs in World War II.
At 12.10 p.m. Police Lt. Col. Kiattisak Kerdchok, an investigator at Sai Yok police station, was notified of a foreigner having died after falling off a train at Krasae Cave in Lum Sum subdistrict and quickly went there together with Pitakarn Kanchanaburi Foundation rescuers.
At the scene they found Patrick Ward, 45, lying on the ground after plunging seven to eight meters from the train. His body was taken to Sai Yok Hospital for an autopsy, with the New Zealand embassy also contacted. Continued …
Chiang Mai is the trendy new travel spot: 7 things you must do when you go
With its stunning array of temples, delicious food scene, hopping nightlife, gorgeous natural opportunities, and all-around laid-back atmosphere, there’s a lot to love about Chiang Mai. Beyond its abundance of awesome experiences, this moderate-size city also offers a high standard of living at a relatively low cost, along with a well-developed visitor infrastructure.
It’s no wonder that it’s become so popular with travelers over the past two years, particularly among the remote-working “digital nomad” crowd.
The best time to go is between October and April when temperatures cool off a bit (though it never really gets cold), but keep in mind that February tends to bring a few months of smoky air — sometimes uncomfortably so — as the country burns its dead crops. Continued …
Eastern Thailand: Why Travel to this Underrated Region
Eastern Thailand is a stunning region in The Land of Smiles that is often less explored than the rest of the country. It’s a shame, though, because this is one of the best regions of Thailand!
This area has everything from gorgeous, white sand beaches to lush, forested national parks!
If you are looking for ways to enhance your Thailand itinerary, check out our suggestions for having the best time in the region. Continued …
Current vaccines ‘will do’ for coming year: ministry
The second generation of Covid-19 vaccines is unlikely to be included in the Department of Medical Services’ procurement pipeline next year while current vaccines remain effective in reducing severe symptoms, says its deputy director-general.
Dr. Weerawut Iamsamran said on Tuesday that no evidence has emerged to back claims that bivalent vaccines offer better results than the monovalent platforms widely being used to prevent advanced infection and severe symptoms.
“Therefore, the current Covid-19 vaccines can still achieve the goal, especially in reducing severe symptoms of Covid-19,” he said. Continued …
Massive flight cancellations leave thousands of suitcases stranded at US airports
After a weekend of canceled flights and travel delays, storm-weary travelers in the U.S. found themselves facing yet another challenge – tracking down their lost luggage. In airports around the country, thousands of bags have piled up, waiting for their rightful owners to claim them. Continued …
Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that impose price cap
President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday delivered Russia’s long-awaited response to a Western price cap, signing a decree that bans the supply of crude oil and oil products from Feb. 1 for five months to nations that impose the cap. Continued …
Tuesday’s News-Dec 27
- Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hua Hin/Hua Hin: A magnet for retirees, second home buyers/3 trends shaping Thailand’s new condos and housing projects/2,684 companies close in November; construction sector worst hit/10 Thai stories that trended the most on social media in 2022/Navy chief expresses sorrow at funerals as search resumes for missing crew/Korat’s century-old train station to be demolished to make way for new, modern version/The rise of Chinese electric vehicles in Thailand/What Are Makrut Lime Leaves And How Do You Cook With Them?/20 more Kana Pure cannabis outlets to be opened in Thailand next year/
- Tourism: Thailand’s tourism story in 2022/7 Airlines To Slash Airfares By Up To 20% From January/From Tokyo to Thailand, Cheap Flights to Asia Are Back/AOT expects 2 million passengers to use its 6 airports from Dec 29-Jan 4/Bangkok a global top 10 NYE party spot/Pattaya reverses course, to hold New Year’s countdown fireworks/
- Covid: Thai tourism stocks soar as China scraps quarantine measure from Jan 8/China’s COVID-19 Surge Raises Odds Of New Mutant Coronavirus Variant/
- International: More than 50 perish, so far, in US frigid weather/17 Dead, Nearly 100 Injured After Heavy Snows In Japan/Hong Kongers to pay HK$1 (4.5 baht) per plastic bag at supermarkets/
- Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
- Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
- You get to use our facilities
- You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
- You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
- You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht
That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hua Hin
New Year’s Eve is fast approaching, as we prepare to say goodbye to 2022.
Despite being a highlight of the social calendar, the previous two years were disrupted by the pandemic, which put a stop to the usual festivities.
However, this year’s festivities promise to be bigger than ever, and if you haven’t yet decided on where you’ll be celebrating, you might want to take a look at this list of parties, events and celebrations taking place across Hua Hin and the surrounding area. Continued …
Hua Hin: A magnet for retirees, second home buyers
The once quiet little sleepy fishing village favored by the Thai Royal family over this last century is not so quiet and sleepy now. Over the years, many Thais have been buying property in Hua Hin, using it as a weekend getaway or placing it on the rental market.
Additionally, in the last 30 years or so, retirees looking for an easy-going and affordable lifestyle in a more authentic Thai setting started investing and making a home here, some just for the winter months, others for permanent retirement. This resulted in an increase in villas, housing developments and condos, as well as infrastructure and amenities to make living in Hua Hin more comfortable for Thais and foreigners.
The last couple of years have seen further change, primarily brought about by the pandemic and other environmental changes. The mix of buyers in the Hua Hin residential market, particularly condos, has changed significantly, with many buyers coming from Bangkok – including moneyed Thais and expats. Continued …
3 trends shaping Thailand’s new condos and housing projects
New real estate projects must address people’s rising concern over energy prices, the environment, and health issues, a leading property advisory firm cautioned on Monday.
Lumpini Wisdom and Solution Co., the research arm of SET-listed property developer LPN, said developers need to incorporate energy-saving, eco and health standards in their new housing and condo projects if they want to attract the new generation of buyers.
Praphansak Rakchaiwan, CEO of Lumpini Wisdom, said prospective buyers are increasingly focused on these three standards amid the pandemic and energy price crisis. Continued …
2,684 companies close in November; construction sector worst hit
The construction sector suffered the highest casualties among 2,684 companies that went out of business in Thailand in November, according to the Department of Business Development.
The shuttered companies had total registered capital of 9.417 billion baht.
Construction firms accounted for 236 closures or 9% of the total. Second-worst hit was real estate with 108 closures (4%), followed by restaurants with 64 (2%). Continued …
10 Thai stories that trended the most on social media in 2022
The death of TV actress Nida “Tangmo” Patcharaveerapong topped trending topics during 2022, according to a study by analytics company Wisesight published on Monday.
The company used its Zocial Eye tools to collect data from social media users in Thailand between Jan. 1 and Dec. 20.
The top 10 trending topics were: Continued …
Navy chief expresses sorrow at funerals as search resumes for missing crew
Admiral Choengchai Chomchoengpaet, commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Navy, expressed sorrow at not being able to save the lives of HTMS Sukhothai crewmen as he presided over funeral rites on Monday.
Choengchai was speaking at rites for four victims of the ship’s sinking held at Sattahip Navy Crematorium in Chonburi.
The four were identified as Petty Officer Third Class Sarawut Nadi, Seaman Suthipong Hongthong, Seaman Jirawat Thuphom and Seaman Worapong Boonlakhon. Continued …
Korat’s century-old train station to be demolished to make way for new version
Nakhon Ratchasima’s 122-year-old train station will be torn down next year to make way for one that supports the dual-track system of Thailand’s new high-speed railway network.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) announced on Monday that the demolition will kick off in February before a more modern one is built. The new station will be fully compatible with the dual-track, high-speed railway system that is currently in Phase 1 of construction.
The 179-billion-baht Phase 1 covers the 253-kilometer distance between Bangkok and Korat, as the northeast province is also known. Continued …
The rise of Chinese electric vehicles in Thailand
While sales of electric vehicles (EVs) have been good this year, manufacturers – most notably Chinese automakers – have also marked a new chapter for Thailand’s auto industry through significant investment projects.
Great Wall Motor (GWM), MG, BYD and Neta are all building their brands in Thailand, together with plans to secure market share, develop production facilities and use the country as their export base, according to Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman and spokesman for the Federation of Thai Industries’ Automotive Industry Club.
The Neta brand has the ability to make its competitors stand in awe in terms of the business direction of its manufacturer, Hozon New Energy Automobile, said Surapong. Continued …
What Are Makrut Lime Leaves And How Do You Cook With Them?
Pad thai and papaya salad are infamous examples of Thai food, yet they’re only a tiny snippet of a complex, varied cuisine. From the spicy, bold curries of southern Thailand to the herbal, vegetable-driven dishes of the north (via Culture Trip), it’s hard to encapsulate Thai food into a single entity.
However, some pantry staples unite all the styles — fish sauce, coriander seeds, garlic, ginger, and aromatics like lemongrass and makrut lime leavess. Especially the latter — the deep green makrut lime leaves contribute an unmistakably citrusy, earthy flavor. Balancing other components with a strong zest, their brightness is an essential component of Thai cuisine.
Also making frequent appearances in Laotian, Vietnamese, and Indonesian food, it’s safe to say the food punches far above its weight. So let’s dive into this herbal ingredient and how to cook with it — its flavor is unlike anything else. Continued …
20 more Kana Pure cannabis outlets to be opened in Thailand next year
Bespoke, a subsidiary of Boutique Corp., is opening 20 more fully licensed Kana Pure cannabis outlets in Thailand next year.
Prab Thakral, president and Group CEO of Boutique, stated at the opening of the third outlet on Monday that the plan was developed after positive feedback from the two licensed cannabis outlets, giving the company confidence to expand nationwide.
However, the exact location has yet to be determined, but it is likely to be on Boutique’s own property, the parent company of Kana Pure. Continued …
Thailand’s tourism story in 2022
Thai tourism in the first half of the year was like riding a roller coaster, as the “Test & Go” program – the country’s reopening initiative – was suspended in January in the wake of the Omicron variant, which spread rapidly since the end of last year.
The tourism industry was able to take a deep breath again once the scheme was allowed to resume in February. However, since the high season was set to come to an end and many of the requirements of the program remained in place, the response was not as impressive as anticipated, with only 152,954 visitors recorded during that month.
The Test & Go program initially required travelers to register in the Thailand Pass system and pre-book a room for Covid-19 testing upon arrival. Each visitor was required to have insurance coverage of US$50,000 and a vaccination record. Continued …
7 Airlines To Slash Airfares By Up To 20% From January
The Thai Airline Assn. said yesterday that seven airlines are going to cut airfares by up to 20% from January after the government reduced the excise tax on jet fuel to only 20 satang per liter to stimulate tourism.
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, president of the association, said excise tax on jet fuel was cut to 20 satang per liter from 4.726 baht for six months starting January.
All seven airlines will be jointly organizing a special promotion with all air fares to be gradually reduced by up to 20% depending on how each airline arranges it. Continued …
From Tokyo to Thailand, Cheap Flights to Asia Are Back
After two-plus years off limits, trips to Japan are suddenly a reality again. Same goes for Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Taiwan, and almost everywhere in between.
It took a bit longer than the rest of the world, but nearly all of Asia has reopened to travelers … and the timing couldn’t be better. Whether you want to score a flight for under $700 round-trip (or much less) or score a lie-flat business class seat using your points, cheap flights to Asia for a trip in 2023 are back on the menu, too!
From Phuket to Tokyo, our Thrifty Traveler Premium team keeps finding tons of great fares to visit some of the best destinations on the continent. Continued …
AOT expects 2 million passengers to use its 6 airports from Dec 29-Jan 4
Thailand’s key economic stimulus is likely to see a boost during this holiday season as the Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) says that the number of tourists could see a rise of nearly 170% year-on-year as Thailand’s tourism sector has seen a resurgence.
AOT said during this New Year break it expects to see as many as 2 million passengers using its services at its six airports, which would be a 170% rise year-on-year, as Thailand only started to open its borders to foreign tourists on July 1, 2022.
The 2 million passengers (domestic and international), AOT said, would be a 171.3% increase from the same last year, and AOT will see 12,190 flights, or an increase of 87%, as people start to travel more amid lesser fear of Covid-19. Continued …
Bangkok a global top 10 NYE party spot
Bangkok has been named among the top 10 destinations in the world to celebrate New Year’s Eve this year, as it booms back to life after the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a CNN report.
The report said Bangkok often tops roundups of Asia’s best nightlife cities. So, of course, it’s a natural place to ring in the New Year if people like crowds, bright lights, noise and revelry. Continued …
Pattaya reverses course, to hold New Year’s countdown fireworks
It seems that Pattaya authorities have changed their mind and will go ahead with the firework display at the New Year countdown celebration on Dec. 31.
According to the Pattaya mayor, the New Year celebration will include national-level fireworks displays but only on Dec. 31 in Pattaya and Koh Larn. The fireworks will be prohibited only from Dec. 29-30 as per the previous announcement.
Apart from this, the authorities said the countdown event in Pattaya will feature concerts and other activities such as shopping and eating, as usual. Continued …
Thai tourism stocks soar as China scraps quarantine measure from Jan 8
China will scrap quarantine measures for overseas arrivals starting Jan. 8, in what is seen as a game changer for Thailand’s tourism industry.
Chinese health authorities announced the move on Monday after nearly three years of strict pandemic border restrictions effectively prevented tourists from leaving the country. China was Thai tourism’s largest overseas market before the pandemic struck in 2020.
China’s National Health Commission (NHC) added that travelers would only need a PCR test taken 48 hours pre-flight to enter China. Continued …
China’s COVID-19 Surge Raises Odds Of New Mutant Coronavirus Variant
Could the COVID-19 surge in China unleash a new coronavirus mutant on the world?
Scientists don’t know but worry that might happen. It could be similar to omicron variants circulating there now. It could be a combination of strains. Or something entirely different, they say.
“China has a population that is very large and there’s limited immunity. And that seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant,” said Dr. Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University. Continued …
More than 50 perish, so far, in US frigid weather
Buffalo residents hovered around space heaters, hunted for cars buried in snow drifts and looked for more victims Monday, after 28 people died in one of the worst weather-related disasters ever to hit western New York. Continued …
17 Dead, Nearly 100 Injured After Heavy Snows In Japan
Heavy snow in large swaths of Japan has killed 17 and injured more than 90 people, and left hundreds of homes without power, disaster management officials said Monday. Continued …
Hong Kongers to pay HK$1 (4.5 baht) per plastic bag at supermarkets
Hongkongers will pay HK$1 (4.5 baht) for each plastic bag they take at supermarkets and wet markets from next week. The charge is aimed at cutting down waste, and it is doubling in its first increase in 13 years. Continued …
Monday’s News-Dec 26
- Hua Hin’s Banyan earns real estate award/Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain Jan 14/Foreign Tourist Finds Missing Sailor’s Backpack Off Koh Tao Beach/Royal Thai Navy confirms bodies of 3 more crew members recovered/Seawalls: A boon or bane for Thailand’s beautiful beaches?/The fitness and wellness trends to keep everyone fit in 2023/Why This Housing Downturn Isn’t Like the Last One/One of Thailand’s buzzwords of 2022 has been “‘BCG’/Foreign Investment Soars 74% During First 11 Months of 2022/Businesses upbeat about early 2023/Police to stop revealing nationality information of foreigners arrested/Foodies left fuming after world’s best cuisines ranked, Thailand 30th/Man Rescued off Phuket Claims to Have Been Floating in the Sea for 13 Days/Green Thoughts: Consider the Casuarina/
- Tourism: New Year activities not canceled nationwide, but canceled hotel bookings rise/Queue-fixers help tourists stomach long lines at Bangkok’s Michelin-rated eateries/3 spas offering cannabis-infused treatments in Thailand to soothe your aching body/Trat, trade and tourism/Floating solar farm — green tourist attraction in Thailand/Another tourist falls from Thai waterfall/Awards Presented to 10 Model Tourism Communities/
- Covid: 2022 was a battle to stay healthy/Thais in China face uphill battle to survive as Covid-19 rages/RT-PCR To Be Mandatory For Passengers to India From Thailand/Chinese city seeing half a million Covid cases a day/
- International: Top UN, NGO officials to meet over Taliban ban on women staff/Putin says West aiming to ‘tear apart’ Russia/
- Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
Hua Hin’s Banyan earns real estate award
Banyan Residences Villas Hua Hin has been named as the “Best Housing Development – Hua Hin” at the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards at a ceremony at The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok.
The award is based upon the contemporary design of the villas, their livebility and encompassing facilities, including the 18-hole Banyan Golf Club and onsite Be Well Medical Center.
Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain Jan 14
Popular Swedish band Duo Jag will perform in a free concert at Black Mountain Golf Club on Saturday. Jan. 14.
The group will perform favorite hit songs from all genres of music from recent years.
Foreign Tourist Finds Missing Sailor’s Backpack Off Koh Tao Beach
A tourist from Norway found the backpack of one of the sailors missing after the HTMS 442 Sukhothai sank in the Gulf of Thailand last Sunday off Koh Tao beach.
The unidentified tourist handed over the backpack to Police Lt. Thanawat Sukkhata, deputy head for investigation at Koh Tao police station, and Koh Phangan Deputy District Chief Noppruek Chamnanrit.
Found within the backpack were Private Thaweesak Sae Siew’s ID card, Navy ID card number 21/64, plus Queen Sirikit Hospital and ATM cards. Also found were 46 baht in cash, a bronze-gold iPhone, clothes and toiletries. Continued …
Royal Thai Navy confirms bodies of 3 more crew members recovered
The Thai Navy has found the bodies of three more crew members who drowned when the HTMS Sukhothai sank in bad weather on Dec. 18. The bodies were recovered from near the wreckage of the ship yesterday afternoon.
The number of crewmen still missing is now 11, according to Vice Admiral Pichai Lorchusakul, who confirmed the bodies found yesterday are definitely from the ship, as they were wearing their sailors’ uniform.
The first body was spotted by the crew of the HTMS Naresuan and a fisherman found the second near Koh Phai, in the district of Pathiew, in Chumphon. HTMS Sukhothai sank off the coast of Bang Saphan district, in the western town of Prachuap Khiri Khan. Continued …
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
- Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
- You get to use our facilities
- You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
- You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
- You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht
That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
Seawalls: A boon or bane for Thailand’s beautiful beaches?
Seawalls have sprouted at many of Thailand’s beautiful beaches, much to the dismay of locals and tourists alike. That feeling is shared by many experts, who say these coastal defenses are nothing short of a death sentence for sandy shores and their shoreline habitat.
“Academics across the world believe that seawalls spell the death of a beach. No matter where they are built, the beach will eventually be wiped away,” said Apisak Tassanee, founder and coordinator of the environmental activist group Beach for Life.
People are voicing concern about the construction of seawalls in several seaside provinces in Thailand, complaining that the structures do more harm than good. Continued …
The fitness and wellness trends to keep everyone fit in 2023
Despite significantly lower caseloads and high rates of vaccination, Covid-19 will continue to shape how we exercise and live our lives, pushing us to increase our focus on self-care and inspire a healthier lifestyle in order to make positive changes for the benefits of our health. And when it comes to working out, 2023 will bring a more personal and functional approach, says one health and fitness expert.
Chonlachai Arnamnart, deputy dean for Corporate Image and Communication at Mahidol University’s College of Sports Science and Technology, shared his predictions for the fitness and wellness trends that will take the center stage in the coming year to help us stay in shape and physically fit. He also offered some training tips to avoid injuries.
Even though gyms and fitness centers are now permitted to be fully operational now that the coronavirus crisis has started to subside, albeit with several safety measures in place, some fitness enthusiasts have been reluctant to return because the gym can be a hotspot in the spread of Covid-19. Continued …
Why This Housing Downturn Isn’t Like the Last One
The pandemic housing boom is over. The bust will look nothing like the last one.
Before the financial crisis of 2008, lenders barely bothered to verify mortgage applicants’ income. Today, they demand reams of evidence that borrowers can afford their loans.
Banks once held big pools of shoddy mortgages with little consequence. Now, such exotic debt securities hardly exist, and banks would find them too costly to hold anyway. Continued …
One of Thailand’s buzzwords of 2022 has been ‘BCG’
BCG has become one of the guiding principles of Thailand’s national development, with roots leading back to the Thailand 4.0 policy conceptualized by the governments of Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha.
Continued …
Foreign Investment Soars 74% During First 11 Months of 2022
Foreign investment surged by 74% for the first 11 months of this year, reflecting confidence among international investors in the Thai economy.
According to acting government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha received an overview report on foreign direct investment in Thailand over the first 11 months of 2022. The report stated that foreign investments totaled 112,466 million baht, a 74% increase over the same period in 2021, with over 5,000 new jobs generated as a result.
From January to November 2022, the Ministry of Commerce approved 530 requests by foreign investors to conduct business under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542, with Japan, Singapore and the United States topping foreign investor nations, respectively. Businesses that have been approved by the Ministry of Commerce are largely related to the Government’s policies on national infrastructure development, public sector investment promotion and s-curve industries. Continued …
Businesses upbeat about early 2023
Festive sentiment during the last week before New Year celebrations is considered the best opportunity for the business sector to increase sales, as economic uncertainties may cast a shadow on consumer confidence in 2023.
With normal shopping sentiment returning as pandemic curbs were eliminated, plus a string of stimulus measures announced last week, business operators anticipate brighter prospects to continue until early 2023.
However, some operators say the government should put more effort into promoting key sectors like tourism amid the recovery. Continued …
Police to stop revealing nationality information of foreigners arrested
According to Royal Thai Police spokesman Gen. Roi Ingkhapairoj, Thai police are being ordered to no longer give nationality information of foreigners arrested for alleged crimes in Thailand to the media.
The order was issued Dec. 24th to all provincial police bureaus in Thailand.
According to Roi, the order is after “requests” made by unidentified countries’ ambassadors who felt reports of their citizens allegedly committing crimes hurt what they called the positive image of their respective countries. Continued …
Foodies left fuming after world’s best cuisines ranked, Thailand 30th
USA – land of hope, glory… and a better cuisine than France?
If you’re also baffled at that statement, then join the tons of social media users who’ve stumbled upon the Taste Atlas Awards 2022 list of “Best Cuisines in the World.”
Originally tweeted by NoContextBrits, the controversial list has racked up more than 1.8 millions views, 14,000 likes and many, many opinions.
The results left a bitter taste in many mouths, with the UK and the USA both beating Thailand, which came 30th on the list. Continued …
Man Rescued off Phuket Claims to Have Been Floating in the Sea for 13 Days
A foreign man has been rescued near Racha Island in Phuket. He claimed he was holding onto an oil tank and floating in the sea for 13 days.
Emergency responders were notified by a tour boat operator that an unidentified man had been found alive floating in the sea 300 meters from Racha Island.
The man was taken onto the tour boat before arriving at the Chalong Pier, south of Phuket. The man was exhausted and weak and was taken to a hospital. Continued …
Green Thoughts: Consider the Casuarina
When it comes to tropical trees, the mangrove is top of the pops for environmentalists. Rightly so. It not only protects all our silt-laden and sandy coastlines from erosion, it is a nursery for an array of marine life. Continued …
New Year activities not canceled nationwide, but canceled hotel bookings rise
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has confirmed they have not canceled New Year activities. More than 3.14 million tourists are expected to join in events that will generate at least 11.2 billion baht.
TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said, “There is no cancellation order or any change on activities for the ‘Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023’, which will be held by the TAT together with private operators. Any order would be issued by the Minister of Tourism and Sports Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn.
“We are expecting 3.14 million tourists on this New Year Festival, which will generate at least 11.2 billion baht.” Continued …
Queue-fixers help tourists stomach long lines at Bangkok’s Michelin-rated eateries
Snagging a seat at Bangkok’s famous street food stalls is not for the faint of heart.
The long queues from pre-pandemic days have returned – and with a vengeance, with the arrival of millions of tourists since Thailand eased Covid-19 entry rules earlier this year.
Snaking queues and hours-long waits have become the norm at some of these joints. Continued …
3 spas offering cannabis-infused treatments in Thailand to soothe your aching body
Those who want to try, or revisit, CBD massages can indulge next time they are in Thailand, where cannabis is now legal for medical use.
Cannabis oil has anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties.
Here are three Bangkok spas offering cannabis-infused treatments to help you relax or soothe aching muscles. Continued …
Trat, trade and tourism
After facing a slump for almost three years, economic activity in several border provinces is getting back on track, especially in Trat – which is a major tourist destination and a gateway to Cambodia.
Travelers use the Ban Hat Lek border checkpoint in Trat’s Khlong Yai district to reach Cambodia’s Koh Kong province, which is also famous for natural and cultural attractions, as well as outdoor activities. Continued …
Floating solar farm — green tourist attraction in Thailand
The hydro-floating solar project, located in the Sirindhorn Dam in northeastern Thailand, has now become a popular tourist spot, with an exhibition center and a 400-meter-long “Nature Walkway”, where visitors can enjoy the dam scenery and view of the floating panels.
After a year of commercial operation, the project has shown its potential to serve not only as a pilot for energy transformation, but also as a platform to benefit sustainable livelihoods. Continued …
Another tourist falls from Thai waterfall
A Thai rescue crew helped to pull a British tourist, who had fallen from the top of a steep waterfall on Samui Island, to safety.
The victim was among a group of eight foreign tourists who had trekked to the top of the Na Muang Waterfall, a steep cliff that was made slippery by recent rainfall.
Luckily, the man did not fall to the bottom of the cliff, only to a spot not far from the top. He did, however, sustain some injuries and was unable to move, promoting his teammates to call for help. Continued …
Awards Presented to 10 Model Tourism Communities
Thailand has made strides in leveraging its cultural soft power to promote its national image in support of tourism and generating income for communities.
The “Model Community” campaign was launched in 2016 for this purpose, with this year seeing 10 communities selected as models for others to reference.
Representatives from the 10 communities recently received commemorative plaques on the occasion of their communities being chosen as models for community tourism. Continued …
2022 was a battle to stay healthy
Many health issues occurred in 2022, ranging from the easing of Covid-19 control measures, the discovery of the first monkeypox patient and liberalizing the cannabis law.
The National Communicable Disease Committee (NCDC) downgraded Covid-19 from a “dangerous communicable disease” to a “communicable disease under surveillance” in October as part of the country’s plan to enter a normal endemic period. Continued …
Thais in China face uphill battle to survive as Covid-19 rages
“Freedom as one wanted, but at the cost of discarding hygiene” is a message posted by one Thai national on a WeChat group chat in China.
This single statement sums up the current situation of the Covid-19 outbreak in China, where some estimates put as many as 40 million citizens are being infected by the virus on a daily basis.
Although the official numbers are close to 4,000 daily infections per day in a country of 1.4 billion people, the extent of the outbreak and the deaths can be seen from the overrunning of hospitalizations and the nearly a week one must wait to get cremated because the crematoriums are running 24/7 but cannot cope with the number of people who are dying. Continued …
RT-PCR To Be Mandatory For Passengers to India From Thailand
Inidan Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Saturday said RT-PCR test for the detection of Covid-19 would be made mandatory for international passengers arriving from China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand.
Any passenger from these countries found symptomatic or testing positive for coronavirus would be quarantined, Mandaviya said.
He also said filling up of the “Air Suvidha” form to declare the health status will be made mandatory for passengers coming from these countries. Continued …
Chinese city seeing half a million Covid cases a day
Half a million people in a single Chinese city are being infected with Covid-19 every day, a senior health official has said, in a rare and quickly censored acknowledgment that the country’s wave of infections is not being reflected in official statistics.
China this month has rapidly dismantled key pillars of its zero-Covid strategy, doing away with snap lockdowns, lengthy quarantines and travel curbs in a jarring reversal of its hallmark containment strategy.
Cities across the country have struggled to cope as surging infections have emptied pharmacy shelves, filled hospital wards and appeared to cause backlogs at crematoriums and funeral homes. Continued …
Top UN, NGO officials to meet over Taliban ban on women staff
Top officials from the United Nations and dozens of NGOs operating in Afghanistan are meeting in Kabul Sunday to discuss the way ahead after the Taliban authorities ordered all NGOs to stop women employees from working, aid officials said. Continued …
Putin says West aiming to ‘tear apart’ Russia
President Vladimir Putin blasted the West for trying to “tear apart” Russia and said his offensive in Ukraine aimed to “unite the Russian people”. Meanwhile, in Kyiv, a day after deadly shelling in southern Ukraine, residents held Christmas services on Sunday, defying Russian spiritual leaders who celebrate it on Jan. 7. Continued …
Merry Christmas to all
And Merry Christmas from our sponsors
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
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- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
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That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
Saturday’s News-Dec 24
Centara Grand Beach Resort Hua Hin celebrates 100th anniversary/Elephant Santas deliver presents at Thai school/Kindergarten students save up to buy blankets for the needy in northern Thailand/Foreigner in Thailand Cooks Christmas Feast for Street Dogs – video/January fuel tariff hike will raise product prices by 5%-12%, warns group/Why everyone is confused by khao soi being named the best soup in the world/Rescuers scouring Chumphon islands for missing HTMS Sukhothai sailors/Body found near spot where HTMS Sukhothai sank/Sunken Warship’s Life Jacket Found Near Koh Tao/Chula academics warn of challenges in shift to EVs/Thailand Legal Cannabis Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis/Weed’s next frontier is in Asia/
Tourism: Thailand welcomes nearly 11 million tourists this year/New Year celebrations not canceled yet, officials say/Khao San Road cancels Dec 31 ‘Countdown’ event/Bangkok 2023 countdown at Iconsiam still on/Foreigners donate blood after massive shortage due to foreigner mishaps/Outbound travelers surge to 3-year high/Could Thailand’s Southeast Coastal Gem Khanom Be the Next Koh Samui?/- Links: Airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
Centara Grand Beach Resort Hua Hin celebrates 100th anniversary
Centara Hotels & Resorts is getting ready to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of its historic Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, home of the original Raliway Hotel Hua Hin, with a month of spectacular events, exhibitions and entertainment lined up at the seaside retreat.
Festivities begin on Dec. 31 with the “Centenary Celebration: 100 Years of Memories”. The evening will feature retro tunes from the 1950’s–1980’s, entertainment, and midnight fireworks.
Events continue into January, highlights of which include the Silpakorn University String Orchestra, the return of the resort’s French buffet with a live performance by French tenor Yves Baron, and an art exhibition featuring the Railway Hotel throughout its history. – traveldailynews.asia
Elephant Santas deliver presents at Thai school
A group of mahouts, each dressed as Santa Claus, led a herd of elephants into a school in central Thailand on Friday to distribute Christmas gifts to students. Video https://www.nationthailand.com/world/40023384
Kindergarten students save up to buy blankets for the needy in northern Thailand
Kindergarten students in Chiang Rai province in northernmost Thailand saved up one baht every day for a year to buy blankets for people suffering in the cold weather this winter, especially those living at high altitudes in the province’s mountainous regions.
Teachers at Chiang Rai Kindergarten invited students to join a charitable project entitled “Doing 89 Million Good Deeds for the King” to develop their social skills and teach them the importance of sharing.
Each child, aged five to six years old, was encouraged to save up one baht per day for one year to buy blankets. The children were told the blankets would be donated to underprivileged people suffering from cold weather this winter. Continued …
Foreigner in Thailand Cooks Christmas Feast for Street Dogs – video
Over the next few days, people across the world will be tucking into their favorite food for Christmas – and why should our furry friends miss out on the fun?
A man in Thailand has gone viral online for celebrating Christmas with street dogs. Niall Harbison works to help stray dogs in the country, and posted videos online of him treating 100 to a real festive feast.
“Street dogs around the world have a hard life,” he began in the caption. “But this group of 100 here in Thailand today were made (to) feel very special. I was up at 4.30am to cook them the finest meal of their lives and people have been sending me toys from all over the world so I saved them up for today. Most of these dogs have never seen a toy in their lives. Continued …
January fuel tariff hike will raise product prices by 5%-12%, warns group
The fuel tariff (FT) increase in January will force manufacturers to raise product prices by 5%-12%, industry chiefs warned on Thursday.
The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) voiced concern after the government announced subsidies to soften the FT hike’s impact on household utility bills but prepared no such measures for business.
The January-April increase in FT will drive up the cost of electricity to 5.69 baht per unit, the JSCCIB said. Continued …
Why everyone is confused by khao soi being named the best soup in the world
TasteAtlas has named khao soi as the number one soup in the world, and the internet has so many questions. Us included. This is why many are confused by khao soi getting the #1 spot.
According to Cambridge Dictionary, a soup (n.) is a usually hot, liquid food made from vegetables, meat, or fish. What about Oxford? They describe it as “a liquid food made by boiling meat, vegetables, etc. in water, often eaten as the first course of a meal.”
That’s very understandable. When we think of soup, we think of liquid food. Most of the time it’s hot, but there are also cold soups, such as gazpacho and chilled soups. It can be sweet, sour, savory, salty, and made with vegetables, various kinds of meat, or sometimes even fruits. There are so many kinds of soups with different variations in every corner in the world, served in your homes or cafes, to fine dining. But one thing’s in common: they’re basically liquid food. Continued …
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
- Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
- You get to use our facilities
- You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
- You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
- You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht
That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
Rescuers scouring Chumphon islands for missing HTMS Sukhothai sailors
The search for 23 HTMS Sukhothai sailors missing in the Gulf of Thailand resumed on Friday, as the Royal Thai Navy issued an update on their mission to probe the ship on the seabed.
The search mission for the sailors launched for a fifth day on Friday in the seas off Chumphon and Surat Thani provinces. The Navy also released the names of the missing personnel.
Rescuers are now checking islands and outcrops off Chumphon for any signs of the 23 sailors, who went missing when the Sukhothai sank in heavy seas about 20 nautical miles off Prachuap Khiri Khan on Sunday night. The vessel was knocked over and suffered an engine malfunction as it took on water. Continued …
Body found near spot where HTMS Sukhothai sank
Another body has been found floating near the spot where HTMS Sukhothai sank off Prachuap Khiri Khan, but the navy has yet to confirm whether it is one of its 23 missing sailors.
A search team on the HTMS Bang Rachan found the body around 4:15pm on Friday off the coast of Bang Saphan district, Royal Thai Navy spokesman Adm Pokkrong Monthatpalin said. Continued …
Sunken Warship’s Life Jacket Found Near Koh Tao
A life jacket from HTMS 442 Sukhothai that sank off Prachuab Khiri Khan on Sunday night was found floating near Koh Tao, almost a hundred nautical miles away, but no sailor seen nearby.
At 10.15 a.m., Surat Thani Gov. Wichawut Jinto was alerted about a life jacket not worn by a sailor being seen floating in the sea about 25 nautical miles from Koh Tao island.
Wichawut then instructed the officials to alert the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center in Chumphon to instruct their officers based on this island to bring the item ashore and inspect it. Continued …
Chula academics warn of challenges in shift to EVs
The government and businesses must brace for new disruptions and challenges as Thailand shifts to the electric vehicle (EV) era, part of state efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, say Chulalongkorn University scholars.
At present, more than 60% of greenhouse gas emissions in Thailand come from the transport and power generation sectors, so businesses in these sectors need to adapt themselves as the government promotes more use of clean energy and zero-emission cars, according to the researchers.
Thailand’s consumption of fossil fuels is expected to peak in 2030, then decrease significantly as a result of the government’s renewable energy and EV development plans, said Weerin Wangjiraniran, a researcher at Chulalongkorn University’s Energy Research Institute (ERI) during a seminar on the impact of the carbon neutrality campaign yesterday. Continued …
Thailand Legal Cannabis Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis
The Thailand legal cannabis market size is expected to reach USD 9.6 billion by 2030 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 58.4% from 2022 to 2030
The growth is attributed to the rising usage of cannabis for recreational and medical purposes. Cannabis legalization has opened new revenue-generating opportunities for various industries in the country. The adoption of CBD oil and tinctures for treating various ailments like nausea, anxiety, and cancer, along with the rising prevalence of cancer are some of the significant factors boosting the industry’s growth.
The growing burden of chronic pain has also augmented the rise in the usage of CBD for treatments related to pain management, and thus, positively impacting the market growth. Various studies have shown positive outcomes of marijuana and its derivatives to treat symptoms of several chronic conditions.
For instance, it has been effectively used to treat patients dealing with chronic pain, nausea induced by chemotherapy, and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Hence, FDA and other government organizations are permitting marijuana derivatives for the prescription of several diseases. This is one of the key factors for the quick turnaround. Continued …
Weed’s next frontier is in Asia
Asia is beginning to warm up to the use of cannabis. Thailand legalized marijuana cultivation at home in 2022, while South Korea, Japan and Malaysia are paving the way for pharmaceutical applications. With the weed market estimated to be a $100 billion industry by 2026, according to research firm Prohibition Partners, regional businesses are preparing for demand from Asian consumers.
The Thai decision to remove cannabis from narcotics control lists is nominally to support its medical use, but this will naturally ease recreational consumption, which may boost international tourist inflows.
Renewable energy firm Gunkul Engineering committed 2 billion baht ($57.6 million) to building a new cannabis plantation and extraction facilities, local Thai media reported. Cannabis-leaf chicken leg snacks and cannabidiol-infused green teas made by Bangkok-listed Srinanaporn Marketingand Ichitan Group already line the shelves of local supermarkets. Continued …
Thailand welcomes nearly 11 million tourists this year
Tourist arrivals in Thailand could hit the 11 million mark before the year is through, according to the governor of the Tourism Author ity of Thailand (TAT), Yuthasak Supaporn.
Between Jan. 1 and Dec. 20, Thailand welcomed 10.9 million tourists from around the world, the governor said this morning.
With high season in full swing, Yuthasak said he expects tourist arrivals to reach 11.5 million before the year’s end. Continued …
New Year celebrations not canceled yet, officials say
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) backs New Year countdowns and celebrations going ahead as planned as long as the government does not order any cancellations.
TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said, at the moment, the TAT has not yet received any warning that an order of this nature is forthcoming after a number of provinces decided to downgrade their countdown events this year.
Neither the tourism minister nor Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha had given any indication that events supported by private sector partnerships across 12 provinces were in jeopardy, he said. Continued …
Khao San Road cancels Dec 31 ‘Countdown’ event
Khao San Road in Bangkok became the latest high profile tourist venue to cancel their special “countdown” event on New Year’s Eve.
The street’s traders’ association chief Sagna Reuangwattanakun said he was responding to official requests to tone down celebrations. But he said businesses in the area would still be open on Dec. 31.
Instead of a big fuss, there would be a giant ball for tourists to take pictures with and live TV scenes from other places around the world celebrating New Year. – Sanook
Bangkok 2023 countdown at Iconsiam still on
Bangkok’s “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023” at Iconsiam on New Year’s Eve has not been canceled, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) insisted.
TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Friday that no cancellation orders have arrived from the government or the Tourism and Sports Ministry.
“The ‘Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023’ focuses on happiness, hope and moving forward together to boost the country’s economy after it was hit by the pandemic for five years,” he said. – The Nation
Foreigners donate blood after massive shortage due to foreigner mishaps
Foreigners donated blood after a massive shortage of Rh Negative in Phuket due to increasing numbers of foreigners who have been involved in accidents.
The donations Thursday were held at the Central Floresta department store.
Dr. Weerasak Lorthongkam, the director of the Vachira Phuket Hospital, said, “In Thai people, there are only 0.3 percent who have special blood types. Continued …
Outbound travelers surge to 3-year high
The New Year holiday is expected to see 33,400 Thais traveling overseas every day, increasing from an average of 28,000, mainly driven by pent-up demand from years of the pandemic, says the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said the number of Thai travelers was surging as many popular destinations have reopened with no restrictions.
Meanwhile, weaker foreign currencies against the baht were also helping the growing outbound market, he said. Continued …
Could Thailand’s Southeast Coastal Gem Khanom Be the Next Koh Samui?
The search for the next big resort destination in Thailand is an absolutely big ask. Thailand is an expansive country with 77 provinces and an amazing array of diverse geographical locations, Instagram-worthy aspects, and distinctly different nuances.
Out of this brazen travel chaos, the endearing term “same same, but different” was born and remains highly relevant.
Yet, one of the simple truths of emerging destinations remains the adage “you can’t stay there if you can’t get there”. Potential is one thing but reality bites when getting to it is just too painful for words.
Here in Thailand, one of my favorite places is Koh Samui. It marches to its own drum beat, and the vibe is undeniable. Still, access is never easy, the cost to get there is on the high side, and options for access are limited. Continued …
Friday’s News-Dec 23
- ‘Pineapple metropolis’ to be established in PKK in 2023/PKK said to have 50 residents over 100 years old/Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hua Hin/Limits announced on New Year’s alcohol sales/Pricey low-rise housing sector grows/Missing sailors, sunk ship draw fire/Another empty life raft from sunken ship washes ashore/Consumer spending expected to hit 17-year high during New Year period/Thailand ranked 4th least corrupt country in Asia/Foreign investors deterred by financial transaction tax/Surat Thani man arrested for peddling fake US dollars/Shipwrecked fisherman found alive, roped to dead crewmates/Flood-prone Thailand, Laos to partner on tackling climate-change issues/Global heating behind Bt12.6-trillion flood damage, 2,000 Thai deaths/Thailand creates new department to tackle climate change/Thailand aiming to build more green data centers/Second reading of marijuana bill delayed for ‘more urgent matters’/CBD oil review: best cannabis oils to buy in Thailand/
- Tourism: The tale of Thailand tourism in 2022/TAT estimates 3.14M domestic trips during holidays/90% of hotels in Chiang Mai fully booked during New Year/Tourism is blossoming on Udon Thani’s pink lily lake/7 amazing places to visit in Thailand/What is it like smoking marijuana as a tourist in Thailand?/Bangkok ranks #1 trending global destination on Airbnb/New Year Countdown fireworks canceled in Pattaya/Why Thailand Is The Most Popular Destination For Americans In Southeast Asia/
- Covid: 5,000 Covid deaths a day likely in China/Elderly Covid patients fill hospital wards in China’s major cities/
- International: Ukraine’s Zelenskiy appeals for bipartisan support in speech to US Congress/Bad energy habits sweeping the world/
- Links: Airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
‘Pineapple metropolis’ to be established in PKK in 2023
The Agriculture Ministry will establish a “pineapple metropolis” in Prachuap Khiri Khan next year to support growers of the spiky yellow fruit.
Alongkorn Ponlaboot, adviser to Agriculture Minister Chalermchai Srion, unveiled the plan at the 38th conference of the Sam Roi Yod pineapple farmers cooperative in Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Sam Roi Yod district on Tuesday.
Alongkorn said the metropolis will also branch out to the pineapple-growing areas of Phetchaburi, Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi to bring farmers under the canopy of better government support. Continued …
PKK said to have 50 residents over 100 years old
The Prachaup Khiri Khan provincial administration is rechecking a preliminary report that said about 50 residents of the province are over 100 years old.
Provincial Deputy Gov. Kittipong Sukphakphum said the preliminary report was filed by the provincial office of Poverty Eradication and Life Cycle Development.
“The provincial administration is checking the details about this. It’s quite exciting and heartening that they live so long,” the deputy governor said. Continued …
Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hua Hin
New Year’s Eve is fast approaching, as we prepare to say goodbye to 2022.
Despite being a highlight of the social calendar, the previous two years were disrupted by the pandemic, which put a stop to the usual festivities.
However, this year’s festivities promise to be bigger than ever, and if you haven’t yet decided on where you’ll be celebrating, you might want to take a look at this list of parties, events and celebrations taking place across Hua Hin and the surrounding area. Continued …
Limits announced on New Year’s alcohol sales
The National Alcohol Policy Committee has agreed with proposals to limit alcohol during the 2023 New Year celebrations to help with DUI considerations and protect youth.
This means that outside of special zones alcohol will not be available up to 2 am. The committee has also opposed the opening of bars from 11 am to 4 am, a move that has already been shelved after Tourism Ministry proposals were knocked back.
Dangers to the public and an increase in crime were cited. Continued …
Pricey low-rise housing sector grows
Demand for high-priced, low-rise houses continued to grow for two consecutive quarters, with market value in the third quarter soaring by 58% from the second, while developers launched new supply in this segment.
Vichai Viratkapan, acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said low-rise houses priced 20 million baht and higher posted significant growth this year.
“High-end homebuyers preferred low-rise houses to condos after the pandemic. As demand continued to be robust throughout the economic slowdown, developers shifted to this segment,” he said. Continued …
Missing sailors, sunk ship draw fire
The Navy has been taken to task for reported failure to ensure sailors aboard a sinking corvette, namely HTMS 442 Sukhothai, survived a stormy sea in the Gulf of Thailand on Sunday night.
Yesterday, Move Forward MP Natcha Boonchai-insawat blamed the navy for six fatalities reported so far among the sailors, plus 23 others who have been reported missing after HTMS 442 Sukhothai had capsized due to strong winds and high tides and finally sunk off Prachuap Khiri Khan.
The Move Forward MP doubted that the navy corvette had the number of life jackets and inflatable boats available for emergency use in proportion to that of its crewmembers and others, reportedly totaling 106. Continued …
Another empty life raft from sunken ship washes ashore
A second empty life raft, possibly from the sunken HTMS Sukhothai, was found washed ashore in Lang Suan district of Chumphon province on Thursday, as the search for the 23 missing crew continues.
The first empty life raft was found drifting at sea about 30km off the coast of Lamae district yesterday by the crew of a trawler.
After an extensive search of coastal areas, which continued late into the night, volunteers from the Reporters Association of Pathio district found a pair of dark blue tracksuit bottoms with red stripe and a black cap with a sun shade washed ashore on Thung Chang Beach in Pathio district. The two items were collected and sent to the provincial office. Continued …
Consumer spending expected to hit 17-year high during New Year period
Bolstered by the government’s stimulus measures, Thailand’s consumer spending is predicted to hit a 17-year high, reaching 103.04 billion baht, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).
The president of the UTCC and adviser to the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, Thanavath Phonvichai, revealed during the conference on “Consumer behavior and spending during 2023 New Year festival” that the New Year period is expected to generate over 103.04 billion baht (US$2.9 billion) in consumer spending, leading to a 20.1% expansion of the economy.
“It would be the first time that consumer spending would be exceeding 100 billion baht since 2007,” Thanavath said, adding that it would benefit the economy in the post-Covid-19 era. Continued …
Thailand ranked 4th least corrupt country in Asia
Thailand – a nation run by a semi-elected military government – was ranked 35th in the world and 4th in Asia in the U.S. News‘ “Least Corrupt Countries” list.
Yesterday, American media company U.S. News released its annual “Best Countries” ranking, featuring 73 countries all over the world. Data was collected from a worldwide survey with more than 17,000 participants.
Countries are ranked from best to worst based on 10 sub-rankings including, “adventure, agility, cultural influence, entrepreneurship, heritage, movers, open for business, power, quality of life and social purpose.” Continued …
Foreign investors deterred by financial transaction tax
Enforcement of the financial transaction tax could give foreign investors a reason to exit the Thai stock exchange and focus on other bourses, according to investment analysts.
The tax on securities trades, which comes into effect next year, could drive foreign traders away as the levy lowers the liquidity of the Thai market, they said. Continued …
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
- Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
- You get to use our facilities
- You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
- You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
- You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht
That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
Surat Thani man arrested for peddling fake US dollars
Region 2 police, under the command of Police Lt. Gen. Itthiphon Itthisanchai, and the Surat Thani provincial police arrested Nawat or “Et” Singhawak, 54, on a warrant for possessing and trading in foreign currency knowing it to be fake.
He was arrested outside a house in the Ek Mongkhon 4 housing estate in Pattaya.
A total of 759 fake U.S. bills worth 2.6 million baht were found in a Toyota Altis. Continued …
Shipwrecked fisherman found alive, roped to dead crewmates
A shipwrecked fisherman was found floating in the sea roped to three dead crewmates about 30 hours after their trawler sank during a storm in the Gulf of Thailand.
HTMS Tor 992 brought Sia Soy, a Cambodian national, and the three dead crewmen to the Songkhla naval base on Wednesday night. They had been transferred from another fishing boat that rescued them from the sea. Continued …
Flood-prone Thailand, Laos to partner on tackling climate-change issues
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa met with Laos Prime Minister Phankham Viphavanh in Vientiane to discuss cooperation on climate issues on Wednesday.
Also accompanying Varawut on the trip to Lao People’s Democratic Republic was ministry permanent secretary Jatuporn Buruspat.
After the meeting, Varawut said he discussed experiences and strategies in tackling problems of natural resources and the environment, with a focus on climate-change issues that both countries are facing. Continued …
Global heating behind Bt12.6-trillion flood damage, 2,000 Thai deaths
Flooding driven by climate change has killed more than 2,000 people and cost 12.59 trillion baht over the past 30 years in Thailand, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).
The finding confirms that Thailand is suffering serious social impacts from climate change, said the NESDC third-quarter report.
The country has suffered over 40,000 floods during the past 30 years, causing significant loss of life and severe economic damage, the report said. The devastation was worst during the national flood crisis of 2011, but last year’s inundation cost 53 billion baht in damages, it added. Continued …
Thailand creates new department to tackle climate change
Thailand has created a new department to tackle climate change. The new department, named the Department of Climate Change and Environment, aims to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions by 2065.
The new department is responsible for proposing and developing strategies, plans, and programs on climate change and greenhouse gas reduction, as agreed at the COP26 meeting.
The ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is overseeing the new climate change department. Other departments involved include the Office of the Secretary, the Strategic and International Cooperation Division, the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Division, and others. Continued …
Thailand aiming to build more green data centers
Large-scale data management is essential to advancing economies, while facilities require huge amounts of energy, posing challenges for the environment and the goal of net zero emissions. Hence, Thailand is aiming to have more green data centers.
As part of its drive to grow the country’s digital economy, Thailand has already emerged as a regional leader in data centers, management and processing, as well as cloud services. The energy powering most of the data centers is currently derived from fossil fuels.
Green data centers are powered by renewables such as solar, wind and other sources. Continued …
Second reading of marijuana bill delayed for ‘more urgent matters’
House Speaker and Parliament President Chuan Leekpai on Thursday informed coalition and opposition whips that the second reading of the cannabis-hemp regulation bill will be suspended next week for the House to consider more urgent matters.
The second reading of the bill was initially scheduled for next Wednesday when the House would continue deliberating Section 4.
But during the meeting of the whips, Chuan said the House needed to use next week’s meeting to consider whether to reaffirm five bills that have been passed in three readings by the Senate but were changed significantly. Continued …
CBD oil review: best cannabis oils to buy in Thailand
CBD oil, also referred to as cannabidiol and sometimes cannabis oil, is widely available in Thailand. You get to enjoy the health benefits of marijuana, minus the high part that some find unpleasant.
However, there are so many different cannabidiol oils to consider that it can be difficult to make the right pick that fulfills your requirements.
With that in mind, Weed Review has compiled a review of the top 5 CBD oils you can buy online in Thailand. So rest assured, if you seek cannabis tinctures for pain, sleep, or stress, you will find it on this list. Continued …
The tale of Thailand tourism in 2022
As the world has recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic’s three-year assault, the Tiger will hand the baton off to the Rabbit. The 2022 countdown celebration was ultimately toned down when Omicron infections quickly spread and the number of new Covid-19 cases in Thailand exceeded 20,000 in February.
The nightmare didn’t last long, since things seemed to be getting better a few months later. The virus infections dropped and the government relaxed restrictions so that people could enjoy the much-loved Songkran festival in public places.
Although water fights, powder smearing, foam parties and the sale of alcohol were still prohibited, this opened the door for tourism to rebound in the second half of the year. Continued …
TAT estimates 3.14M domestic trips during holidays
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasts domestic tourism to tally 3.14 million trips during the New Year holiday, generating 11.2 billion baht, with the northern region posting the highest occupancy at 78%.
The countdown celebrations in 12 provinces are poised to stimulate 4.21 billion baht for the local economy, said the agency.
Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT governor, said the New Year holiday from Dec. 31 to Jan. 2 would see a surge of local tourists, with 560,380 trips projected for the northern provinces, as travelers want to experience cold weather in mountainous destinations. Continued …
90% of hotels in Chiang Mai fully booked during New Year
If you’re planning on visiting Chiang Mai this New Year, then you had better be quick, because 90% of hotel rooms in the province are already booked up, according to the Thai Hotels Assn.
Hotels in the province are expected to generate one billion baht in revenue during the high season, which runs from November to March, according to the association.
President of the THA‘s northern region, Phunat Laopanich, said Thailand’s tourism industry has improved by leaps and bounds over the past few months. He said that tourism revenue was closing in on pre-pandemic levels. Continued …
Tourism is blossoming on Udon Thani’s pink lily lake
Isaan’s second-largest lake is seeing an influx of tourists since the pink lilies that blanket it began to bloom late last month, local officials say.
More than 100 boats are now available for tours of the lake in Udon Thani province, Paisit Sukrome, chairman of the lake’s tourism boat enterprise, said Wednesday.
Paisat said the blooming lilies are more noticeable than in previous years because the lake’s floating moss has been eradicated. He said about 200,000 tourists have visited the lake so far this year, up from 50,000 in 2021. Continued …
7 amazing places to visit in Thailand
Thailand is definitely one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Travelers who visit the so-called “Land of Smiles” for the first time were overwhelmed by the incredible number of interesting attractions and all the amazing things you can find in Thailand.
Here are the top 7 places in Thailand that you should not miss if you are planning a trip soon.
Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Island is a beautiful spot in Thailand, with limestone hills, turquoise lagoons, and the world-famous beach at Maya Bay. Continued …
What is it like smoking marijuana as a tourist in Thailand?
In June, Thailand’s military junta did something so out of character, it seemed like a joke. The Buddhist kingdom that until recently had one of the strictest drug laws in the world became the first country in Asia to decriminalize possession of cannabis for medical and industrial uses.
Officially, Thailand has not yet decriminalized recreational marijuana use. Anyone caught enjoying the product without a doctor’s note can be imprisoned for up to three months.
Unofficially, though, Thailand has become the Amsterdam of the East, with thousands of recreational weed dispensaries now trading in the country. Continued …
Bangkok ranks #1 trending global destination on Airbnb
Airbnb is wrapping up the year with a bow, revealing the categories and destinations that topped the charts in 2022, and providing a sneak peak at what 2023 has in store for travel.
Searches made in Q1-Q3 2022 for check-ins in 2022 vs the same period in 2021, saw Bangkok emerge as the #1 most trending destination for Airbnb guests across the world in 2022: Continued …
New Year Countdown fireworks canceled in Pattaya
Pattaya authorities have decided to cancel the New Year countdown firework display from Dec. 29-31.
However, for now, concerts and food festivals set for the countdown will continue. Continued …
Why Thailand Is The Most Popular Destination For Americans In Southeast Asia
Now that their borders have reopened and they seem to have moved on from the darker days of the pandemic, Thailand is once again smashing tourism records and strengthening links with North America. In fact, new research has confirmed it is the go-to destination for U.S. citizens in Southeast Asia – but what’s behind this new wave of popularity?
For most of 2020 and 2022, Southeast Asia (SEA) remained virtually sealed off for tourism, as local governments cracked down hard on Covid, banning most, if not all, foreign arrivals, and imposing controversial measures such as nightly curfews and lockdowns. Thailand was no exception.
Certainly, we did not expect Thailand to bounce back as strongly or this quickly, yet here we are: Continued …
5,000 Covid deaths a day likely in China
More than 5,000 people are probably dying each day from COVID-19 in China, health data firm Airfinity estimated, offering a dramatic contrast to official data from Beijing on the country’s current outbreak.
The UK-based firm said it had used modeling based on regional Chinese data to produce figures that also put current daily infections in the country at above a million.
Its estimates were “in stark contrast to the official data, which is reporting 1,800 cases and only seven official deaths over the past week,” it said in a statement. Continued …
Elderly Covid patients fill hospital wards in China’s major cities
Elderly patients lined the wards of hospitals in major cities in China Thursday as the country battled a wave of Covid cases.
The virus is surging across the vast Asian nation in an outbreak authorities say is impossible to track after the end of mandatory mass testing.
And with cases soaring, Washington called on Beijing to share its Covid outbreak data, saying China’s caseload impacts the world. Continued …
Ukraine’s Zelenskiy appeals for bipartisan support in speech to US Congress
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told the U.S. Congress on Wednesday that the tens of billions of dollars of aid it had approved to help it fight a Russian invasion was not charity, but an investment in global security. Continued …
Bad energy habits sweeping the world
A new survey of 6,000 homeowners and renters from across the globe has revealed nearly 9 in 10 people ignore what’s best when it comes to energy efficiency in the home, despite 80% saying they know how to use their household appliances in an energy-efficient way. Continued …
Thursday’s News-Dec 22
- Prachuap Food Festival & Siam Powerboat Dec 23-25/National museums and parks offer free access Dec 30-Jan 2/Shopping discounts launched/Opinion: Uncertainty ahead for Thai economy/Thai innovation agency pinpoints trends that will shape the future/Seven high-potential product trends for next year/Naval Male Nurse Mysteriously Missing After Being Rescued/22 still missing as naval chiefs plan refloat of the Sukhothai/Top 4 Best Places to Work in Thailand for 2022 revealed/7 killed and 2 injured in floods in southern Thailand/Alcohol banned from festive gift baskets in Thailand/Edible insect industry gains momentum in Thailand/Reversal of cannabis legality prompts legislative walkout/New Year’s weed parties illegal/
- Tourism: Number of flights will soar by 65% next year/Tourist app expanding: flight info, taxis, shopping and more/Tourism groups in South Korea sign deals with TAT/
- Covid: Mask-less passenger told to get off bus after other passengers complain/China says no new Covid deaths after changing criteria/
- International: Malaysia landslide toll hits 26/US to give $1.85B in new military aide, including Patriots, to Ukraine/Toyota Chief Says ‘Silent Majority’ Has Doubts About Pursuing Only EVs/Crypto at a crossroads after its horrible year/
- Links: Airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas
Prachuap Food Festival & Siam Powerboat Dec 23-25
The Prachuap Food Festival & Siam Powerboat 2022 event will be held Dec. 23-25 at the provincial office at Prachuap Bay.
The event will showcase a variety of local food and goods, as well as different water sports and powerboat competitions.
National museums and parks offer free access Dec 30-Jan 2
The Fine Arts Department is giving the public a New Year’s gift – free access to national museums and historical parks throughout the kingdom from Dec. 30 to Jan. 2.
This includes the exhibit of ancient gold ornaments from the Ayutthaya period at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum in Ayutthaya, which opens on Dec. 30, the department said.
In Bangkok, the exhibit of the auspicious Buddha image of the Front Palace (Phra Buddha Sihing) will open at the National Museum on Dec. 28, from 9am to 4pm daily. Nine other Buddha images will also be displayed in the exhibit, the department said. Continued …
Shopping discounts launched
The Commerce Ministry kicked off its “New Year Grand Sale” campaign yesterday via partnerships with the private sector and online platforms, offering steep discounts of up to 85%.
The campaign is scheduled to run from Dec. 22 to Jan 31, with as many as 46,100 branches of stores from 315 organizations, including retailers, manufacturers, online platforms, and service providers participating in the scheme.
The scheme is expected to help stimulate domestic spending by at least 12 billion baht. Continued …
Uncertainty ahead for Thai economy
The Thai economy will face many headwinds but also tailwinds next year, mainly from the global economy and geopolitical tensions. In 2022, the Thai economy slowly recovered from the Covid pandemic as lockdowns ended and the economy was reopened to international travel.
After contracting by more than 6% in 2020, Thailand’s real gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 1.5% in 2021 and 3.2% in 2022.
Next year, the Thai economy is forecast to grow by 3.5%. The continued expansion will be fueled by the growth of household consumption, remittances from tourism, especially international travelers, growing exports, especially to China, as well as private investments, particularly the relocation of high-tech production from China to Thailand. Continued …
Thai innovation agency pinpoints trends that will shape the future
The National Innovation Agency (NIA) has identified seven trends that will shape the future in Thailand and around the globe, and give an edge to companies and countries that seize the opportunities they are creating.
Pan-Arj Chairatana, the agency’s executive director, said in an exclusive interview on Wednesday that the seven innovation trends were selected because they reflect current developments in the global economy.
The trends have a significant potential to drive the future and play a crucial role in people’s lives. They are: Continued …
Seven high-potential product trends for next year
Bangkokbiz, a news agency, on Wednesday identified seven product groups that it predicts will be trending next year. They are:
1. Products for the elderly
The market for the elderly will mainly focus on health products. This group has a lot of purchasing power from savings and pensions, while not having to spend as much as young adults.
Therefore, healthy foods and beverages, as well as products that increase convenience, such as ready-to-cook boiled rice, have huge potential. Continued …
Naval Male Nurse Mysteriously Missing After Being Rescued
Chief Petty Officer Khunakorn “Mor Champ” Jariyot had survived strong winds and high tides alongside other sailors after their navy corvette had capsized and sunk Sunday night. Yet, hours later the chief petty officer was nowhere to be found among those sailors who had been rescued to safety from the stormy sea in the Gulf of Thailand.
Khunakorn, the sole male nurse attached to HTMS 442 Sukhothai, which sank 19 nautical miles off Prachuap Khiri Khan, is currently reported one of 23 missing persons following the mishap, which has so far claimed six fatalities among a total of 106 crew members and marines.
Remarkably, Khunakorn had kept his big nursing bag with him, oblivious to the naval survival rule that calls for sailors to weigh as lightly as possible to struggle with high tides and stormy weather in the sea. Continued …
22 still missing as naval chiefs plan refloat of the Sukhothai
Thai naval chiefs continue to mount an expanding search-and-rescue mission seeking to locate 22 personnel still unaccounted for after the 35-year-old naval corvette HTMS Sukhothai capsized and sank on Sunday off Prachuap Khiri Khan. They also are exploring the possibility of salvaging and refloating the vessel with improved weather conditions expected. One more crew member was rescued on Wednesday afternoon.
On Wednesday, the Royal Thai Navy sent down an underwater submersible vehicle to examine the submerged HTMS corvette Sukhothai, which sank after it capsized approximately 25 km off the coast of Prachuap Khiri Khan on Sunday.
The naval vessel, built in the United States in 1987, had been carrying approximately 70 crew and 35 other naval and military personnel, including marines, when it left Sattahip Naval base in Chonburi on Saturday heading for Chumphon for a naval ceremony to celebrate the founder or “father” of the service Krom Luang Chumphon Khet-udomsak, whose birthday was Dec. 19, 1880. Continued …
Top 4 Best Places to Work in Thailand for 2022 revealed
Novo Nordisk, AIA, Jardine Schindler Thailand, LCIT have been recognized as the top four best places to work in Thailand for 2022, according to the annual prestigious “Best Places to Work” certification program.
Novo Nordisk Thailand was awarded the top position followed by AIA Thailand, an affiliate of the multinational insurance and finance corporation. Jardine Schindler Thailand, an affiliate of Jardine Schindler Group, a joint venture between Jardine Matheson in Hong Kong and Schindler Group located in Switzerland, between them bring over 300 years of experience in business management, regional specialization and engineering excellence. Laem Chabang International Terminal Co came in the fourth position.
Enrico Cañal Bruland, vice president and general manager for Novo Nordisk Thailand, said, “We place high importance on building and maintaining an atmosphere in which everyone feels heard, accepted and valued; being recognized as the best place to work for women additionally this year is a huge achievement, which is perfectly in line with our diversity and inclusion agenda.” Continued …
H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT
- Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
- You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
- You get to use our facilities
- You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
- You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
- You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht
That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !
The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.
For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638
Your deserve It!
7 killed and 2 injured in floods in southern Thailand
Seven people died and two more are injured as a result of floods in the southern provinces of Thailand. The water level has gradually decreased today.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reported that heavy rain and strong winds from Dec. 18 to 21 caused flash floods and landslides in nine provinces, including Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Phattalung, Satun, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat.
A total of 205,775 households in the area were affected. From the latest update, two people were reported dead in Phattalung province, one died in Yala province, and four died in Narathiwat province. Two more people are reported to be injured. Continued …
Alcohol banned from festive gift baskets in Thailand
Pre-made gift baskets are a hit in Thailand for all special occasions and are especially popular around the Christmas and New Year holidays.
But the Ministry of Commerce would like to remind the country’s merchants that selling alcohol as part of a gift set is against the law in Thailand.
Anyone who fails to comply with the law will face imprisonment of up to six months and a fine of up to 10,000 baht. Continued …
Edible insect industry gains momentum in Thailand
More than 1,900 insect species around the world are considered edible and consumed in countries in Central America, Asia, and Africa. Insects have long been grown for eating in Thailand and often served in street stalls.
Throughout the years, edible insect consumption has gained popularity in Thailand, even reaching fine-dining restaurants. More and more insect-based products are now being developed for human consumption, served in restaurants, sold in supermarkets, and offered as part of in-flight meals.
From canned edible insect food to dried packed snacks, tourists and locals alike can try a wide variety of insect-based products in Thailand. Continued …
Reversal of cannabis legality prompts legislative walkout
The passage of Thailand’s controversial Cannabis Bill is expected to be further delayed after the House meeting collapsed yesterday due to the lack of a quorum.
After the House approved the deletion of the contentious Section 3 from the bill, MPs from both government and opposition parties started to leave the chamber, as the House continued to deliberate the remaining sections of the bill. Section 3 stipulated that cannabis is not a narcotic drug.
After extensive debate on Section 7/4 of the bill, Deputy House Speaker Supachai Phosu, who chaired the meeting, realized that there were fewer MPs in the chamber. He then pressed the buzzer to tell MPs to enter the chamber and to identify themselves, by inserting their electronic ID cards before a vote was to be taken on Section 7/4, regarding the promotion of research on the medical use of cannabis by the Food and Drug Administration. Continued …
New Year’s weed parties illegal
For those who were planning a more mellow New Year’s Eve celebration, lighting up a joint and saying goodbye to 2022, the government has a strong warning for you. The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) cautioned cannabis vendors not to take part in or organize New Year’s Eve smoke parties.
The Ministry of Public Health says that their cannabis control rules and restrictions prohibit events centered around the herb and where smoking will occur. The director-general of the DTAM says that members of the public at large have voiced concerns over these drug parties taking place throughout Thailand. Continued …
Number of flights will soar by 65% next year
The state agency that manages the kingdom’s air traffic is upbeat about the outlook for the Thai aviation industry, saying the rebound in international and domestic travel continues to accelerate.
The number of flights will rise by 65% next year compared to this year, according to Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co. (AeroThai).
AeroThai President Nopasit Chakpitak said the aviation industry in Thailand has been rebounding since the government eased its Covid-19 travel restrictions and fully re-opened the country. Continued …
Tourist app expanding: flight info, taxis, shopping and more
Airports in Thailand is hard at work souping up its travel app in hopes of making it an essential super-app for the incoming flood of tourists. Its “Sawasdee by AoT” app currently provides flight and airport information for people landing at six AoT-run airports. But they plan to add a host of tourism services, to aid the predicted 90 million passengers expected to pass through those airports next year.
The app will be available in Thai, English, Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, Russian, Hindi, and Spanish. There is a Tourist Help section that can connect travelers to police in each of those languages except for Hindi and Spanish.
So far, 650,000 people have downloaded the app but the AoT is predicting that number will jump next year up to 1.5 million. They contend that if they develop the super app, its usefulness will push it to four million downloads by 2024. Continued …
Tourism groups in South Korea sign deals with TAT
To boost the tourism link with South Korea, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has just inked three new deals. By partnering with Korean Air, the Korea Association of Travel Agents, and SOOBAK, TAT hopes to increase visitors from the nation and strengthen the friendly relations between South Korea and Thailand.
The department’s governor, Yuttasak Supasorn, visited the South Korean capital city of Seoul and signed the deal on Monday to create a memorandum of understanding or a memorandum of cooperation with each of the three Korean entities. He lauded the new deals as a boon to a Thai-Korean tourism campaign. Continued …
Mask-less passenger told to get off bus after other passengers complain
A video clip showed anger on a bus north of the Thai capital Bangkok in which a passenger was not wearing a mask.
It concerned what happened on Route #6250 from Rangsit to Klong 9.
Passengers complained to the conductress that a man was not wearing a mask. Continued …
China says no new Covid deaths after changing criteria
China said Wednesday that no one had died of Covid-19 the previous day, after changing the criteria such that most virus deaths are no longer counted, as the World Health Organization said it was “very concerned” about the new wave of cases.
Hospitals are struggling, pharmacy shelves have been stripped bare and many crematoriums are overwhelmed in the wake of the Chinese government’s sudden decision to lift years of lockdowns, quarantines and mass testing.
China had recorded a total of seven deaths – all in Beijing – since its decision to lift its zero-Covid policy, but removed one death from its official tally Wednesday. Continued …
Malaysia landslide toll hits 26
The death toll from a landslide at an unauthorized campsite in Malaysia rose to 26 after search and rescue teams on Wednesday found the body of a man in a tight embrace with his dog, officials said. Continued …
US to give $1.85B in new military aide, including Patriots, to Ukraine
The United States will provide $1.85 billion in additional military assistance for Ukraine, including a transfer of the Patriot Air Defense System, President Joe Biden said on Wednesday. The announcement came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy arrived in Washington to meet Biden and address Congress on his first known overseas trip since Russia invaded Ukraine 300 days ago. Continued …
Toyota Chief Says ‘Silent Majority’ Has Doubts About Pursuing Only EVs
Toyota Motor Corp. President Akio Toyoda said he is among the auto industry’s silent majority in questioning whether electric vehicles should be pursued exclusively, comments that reflect a growing uneasiness about how quickly car companies can transition. Continued …
Crypto at a crossroads after its horrible year
To borrow a phrase from the late Queen Elizabeth, 2022 is not a year on which the cryptocurrency world shall look back with undiluted pleasure. Video