- Cha Am crab festival/Developer plans new project in Hua Hin
- IRAN INVASION: Trump Signals Prolonged Conflict/NSC Tightens Embassy Security/Foreign Ministry Outlines Evacuation Routes/Many Thai workers in Middle East choose to stay/Thailand braces for oil price shock/PTTEP Boosts Gas Output/Visa waivers, discounted hotel stays/Stranded Tourists Granted Visa Amnesty/Phuket Offers Aid to Tourists/Thai EXIM Bank Unveils Emergency Relief/Stocks slide, inflation fears/Closure of Strait of Hormuz/Hormuz crisis disrupts trade/Drones hit US embassy in Riyadh
- ECONOMY: Thai government braces for US tariffs
- TOURISM: Navigating Thailand’s Tourism Challenges/Don Mueang to open 24-hour automated departure gates
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE:What I Loved and Hated About Thailand/Phetchaburi’s palm sugar
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Two key renewable projects face delay
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Cha Am crab festival set for March 14-21
The Cha Am crab festival will take place from March 1-21 at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, celebrating the town’s well-known blue swimming crab and its coastal food culture.
Organized along the beachfront, the eight-day event, officially titled “Chim Pu Chak @ Cha Am”, will focus on fresh seafood sourced from local waters, alongside Thai dishes prepared by vendors from the area. Visitors can expect a large selection of crab-based dishes, including steamed crab, spicy salads, and traditional seafood recipes popular in Phetchaburi province. Continued …
Developer plans new project in Hua Hin
Developer AP Thailand is sharpening its focus on provincial expansion this year, increasing launches outside Greater Bangkok by entering at least five new provinces, despite maintaining a cautious rollout plan.
The company plans to launch 42 new residential projects worth a combined 55 billion baht, with eight projects valued at 8 billion baht located in provincial markets. New destinations include Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Hat Yai in Songkhla, Saraburi, Chon Buri, and Chanthaburi, adding to the 14 provinces where AP already operates. Continued …
Trump Signals Prolonged Conflict in Iran as ‘Big Wave’ Looms
US President Donald Trump has signaled that the US military campaign against Iran may be more protracted than initially anticipated, even as he maintains that the most devastating phase of the assault has yet to begin.
In a series of weekend communications and a Monday morning interview with CNN, the 79-year-old president sought to clarify the objectives of Operation Epic Fury, which he described as the “last best chance” to neutralize Washington’s long-standing adversary. Continued …
NSC Tightens Embassy Security Amid Middle East Attacks
The National Security Council (NSC) has ordered intensified intelligence monitoring and tightened security at the embassies of the United States, Israel, and Iran in Bangkok, as authorities respond to tensions linked to the Middle East conflict.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said measures are in place and officials have also identified the number of Thai nationals wishing to return home from the Middle East. Continued …
Thai Foreign Ministry Outlines Complex Evacuation Routes Amid Middle East Escalation
Thailand Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow has warned that the conflict in the Middle East has evolved beyond a limited strike on nuclear facilities and is likely to become a “prolonged” engagement. Speaking after a National Security Council (NSC) meeting at Government House yesterday, the minister detailed urgent plans to repatriate Thai citizens as regional tensions soar.
The minister revealed that any evacuation of Thai nationals from Iran would require a difficult 1,000-kilometer road journey to the Turkish border, from which they would board connecting flights. Continued …
Many Thai workers in Middle East choose to stay on despite escalating conflict
Many Thai workers in the Middle East said they do not want to return to Thailand despite the escalating conflict involving Iran and a US-Israel military coalition, with Thai residents posting updates on social media.
Thai people living and working in the region, particularly in Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), shared photos and videos of themselves running to bunkers during air strikes on their social media accounts and in Facebook groups for Thai communities in each country. Continued …
Thailand braces for oil price shock
Thai energy officials are intensifying measures to shield the country from a crisis reminiscent of the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, as mounting tensions between Iran, Israel, and the US raise fears of global oil supply disruptions and economic instability.
Authorities are working with power companies to avoid a repeat of the sharp price hikes that followed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, said an energy official who requested anonymity. Continued …
PTTEP Boosts Gas Output Amid Middle East Unrest
PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) has increased natural gas extraction in the Gulf of Thailand to its maximum possible levels to safeguard national energy security. The move comes in response to potential global energy supply disruptions caused by instability in the Middle East.
The company is also postponing non-essential maintenance at its gas fields to ensure an uninterrupted supply to the national grid. Yesterday, PTTEP confirmed it had activated its comprehensive Business Continuity Plan (BCP) to shield Thailand from the impact of international energy shocks. The measures are designed to insulate the Thai public and industrial sectors from potential shortages. The company said it is monitoring the situation with “the utmost vigilance”. Continued …
Visa waivers, discounted hotel stays and 2,000 baht a person per day for stranded tourists
Thailand’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Natthariya Thaweewong moved yesterday to secure discounted accommodation for foreign tourists stranded by the U.S.–Iran conflict that erupted on Saturday, as hundreds of flights scheduled to land at the country’s main airports were scrapped over the weekend and signals from Washington DC and Tel Aviv indicated the war could last another four to five weeks.
Meanwhile, Immigration Bureau authorities confirmed a waiver of overstay penalties for genuine tourists unable to leave, and the ministry announced support payments of B2,000 per day capped at B20,000 per person. Continued …
Stranded Tourists Granted Visa Amnesty as Middle East Airspace Closure Paralyzes Flights
The Thai Immigration Bureau has announced emergency relief measures for foreign nationals stranded within the Kingdom following the abrupt closure of Middle East airspace.
The move aims to assist thousands of travelers caught in a legal limbo after hostilities in the region led to a total suspension of many international flight paths. Major aviation hubs across the Middle East have remained inaccessible for the past four days, preventing tourists and business travelers from returning home. Continued …
Phuket Offers Aid to Tourists Affected by Flight Delays
Phuket officials are urging hotels and tour operators to assist tourists affected by flight disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Collaboration efforts are in place with the Phuket Tourism Assn. and the Thai Hotels Assn. to support those whose travel plans have been complicated by flight schedule changes.
The proposed measures include waiving fees for rescheduling or canceling bookings, offering special rates for extended stays, and providing updated travel guidance. Disrupted flight operations have impacted major airports such as Phuket, Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Chiang Mai. Continued …
Thai EXIM Bank Unveils Emergency Relief as Middle East Tensions Burn Through Trade Routes
Thailand’s state-owned Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank) has triggered an emergency rescue package for domestic businesses caught in the crossfire of the escalating Middle East conflict. The bank has moved to freeze debt repayments for up to a year and slash interest rates as the regional crisis begins to choke vital shipping lanes.
Chalat Rattanabunnithi, managing director of EXIM Bank, announced the measures yesterday, citing the “direct impact” of the volatility on Thai international trade. The Middle East remains a critical corridor for the kingdom, representing 6% of total trade value. In 2025 alone, Thai exports to the region topped $12 billion, while imports — primarily energy — surged to $28 billion. Continued …
Stocks slide as Middle East conflict fans inflation fears
Stocks resumed their selloff and the dollar strengthened in early Asian trading today as investors considered the implications of US and Israeli strikes on Iran on energy prices and the global economy.
“Economic policy uncertainty was already elevated and now with the Iran conflict, the geopolitical risk is expected to rise, too,” said Rupal Agarwal, Asia quant strategist at Bernstein in Singapore. “Last time both spiked was in 2022 during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which didn’t work well for Asian markets.” Continued …
Iran announces closure of Strait of Hormuz and threatens vessels that enter
Iran announced this morning the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most important shipping routes — while threatening to set fire to any vessel that attempts to pass through, amid sharply escalating tensions in the Middle East.
A commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the strait had been ordered “closed” following multiple explosions along the key oil-export route in recent days. Continued …
Hormuz crisis disrupts trade as freight rates double, exporters warn
Thanakorn Kasetsuwan, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), said escalating tensions in the Middle East between Iran, Israel, and the United States are severely affecting supply chains and the mechanisms of global trade. The crisis has had an immediate impact on maritime traffic in the Persian Gulf.
The latest information indicates that a large number of cargo vessels have been forced to drop anchor and stop moving to assess the situation. Shipping lines have had to avoid the Strait of Hormuz and other high-risk areas, switching to routes around the African continent via the Cape of Good Hope. Continued …
Drones hit US embassy in Riyadh
In the early hours of today, foreign media reported a fire at the US embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Reuters, citing two sources, said the fire broke out after an explosion.
Meanwhile, four witnesses told AFP they heard a loud blast and saw smoke rising over the diplomatic quarter, which hosts multiple embassies and residences for foreign diplomats in Riyadh. Continued …
Thai government considers 150-day measures to brace for US tariffs
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas convened an urgent meeting yesterday with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. Joined by Thailand’s ambassador in Washington and private-sector representatives, the meeting aimed to set a national strategy in response to the United States’ new tariff policy and trade-restricting measures.
Ekniti said the emergency meeting with the foreign affairs and commerce ministers, together with private-sector representatives, was carried out under a Cabinet mandate assigning the three key economic ministries to integrate efforts and define the country’s strategy. Continued …
Navigating Thailand’s Tourism Challenges Amid Rising Oil Costs and Global Tensions
The economic landscape in Thailand is undergoing significant changes as Middle East tensions and the resulting surge in global oil prices create shockwaves throughout its markets. These rising oil costs, primarily driven by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz following military actions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, have begun to significantly impact key industries in Thailand, particularly airlines and tourism.
The geopolitical crisis has already triggered a surge in energy stocks, posing a major challenge for those reliant on jet fuel and travel. Airlines, including Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and Asia Aviation, are facing mounting fuel costs, potentially leading to profitability declines. At the same time, Thailand’s robust medical tourism sector may also suffer as Middle Eastern patients cancel visits. Continued …
Don Mueang to open 24-hour automated departure gates on Thursday
Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok will open its new 24-hour Automated Border Control (ABC) passport gates for departures on Thursday, to reduce queues for the convenience of passengers. The opening follows a trial period in mid-February when the gates were available only from 7 am to 7 pm.
Immigration checkpoint is now ready to operate the automated gates around the clock, deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Periswiwatana said today. Continued …
What I Loved and Hated About Traveling in Thailand
Thailand sells a powerful dream: golden temples, turquoise bays, fragrant street food, and smiles at every turn. Much of that dream is still real, and traveling here can be one of the most rewarding experiences in Southeast Asia.
Yet, Thailand in 2026 is not the same place many backpackers fell in love with a decade ago. Costs are higher, crowds thicker, and the fine print of travel has become more complex. After several extended trips, here is what I genuinely loved about traveling in Thailand, and what I learned to hate enough to plan differently next time. Continued …
Phetchaburi’s palm sugar: the sweet heart of the ‘City of Three Flavors’
The sweetness found in many Thai desserts in Phetchaburi comes mainly from the toddy palm tree, known in Thai as “Tanot”. These trees are grown in abundance in the province, especially in Ban Lat district.
Toddy palms in Phetchaburi have produced high-quality palm sugar since ancient times. The province’s famous palm sugar is sweet, fragrant, and delectable, and it is essential for making a wide range of local delicacies such as Khanom Mo Kaeng Sangkhaya (Thai custard) and Khanom Tan (toddy palm cake). Continued …
Two key renewable projects face delay
Two key renewable energy projects pushed by the caretaker government of Anutin Charnvirakul need to be delayed until a new government is formed, says energy Permanent Secretary Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo.
A solar-powered water pump project and the direct power purchase agreement (PPA) still require approval from the National Energy Policy Council (NEPC), chaired by the prime minister. Continued …
Arrest Warrants Issued For Ben Smith Over Bt1-billion Fraud
Arrest warrants have been issued for Ben Smith, also known as Benjamin Mauerberger, and his wife, Katriya Beaver, on charges of transnational investment fraud and money laundering, with alleged losses exceeding 1 billion baht. The warrants were approved on March 2 following an investigation by The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). Continued …
- Tycoon arrested off first class flight, convicted in Pattaya of fraud and forgery – Continued …
- Drunk Indian Jet Ski Rider Injures Russian Tourist at Jomtien – Continued …
Trump expected to continue tariff binge
Although the US Supreme Court recently ruled that President Donald Trump could not invoke the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 to impose “reciprocal” tariffs on countries, trade uncertainty may intensify, warns Sompop Manarungsan, an analyst focused on the US and Chinese economies. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
A rare astronomical event, a total lunar eclipse, will take place tomorrow, which also falls on Makha Bucha Day. The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand says the Moon will appear brick-red across the entire disk.
A thunderstorm warning has been issued for Prachuap Khiri Khan, with officials urging residents to prepare for thunderstorms and strong winds across the province from tomorrow through Friday.
Food safety training was the focus of a workshop held in Prachuap Khiri Khan yesterday, as local food business operators gathered to strengthen hygiene standards and protect consumer health.
Since the government canceled the long-standing prohibition on selling alcoholic beverages between 2-5 pm, in a move aimed at stimulating the economy and tourism, the early assessments indicate the change is likely to increase restaurant revenues by more than 20%, after aligning sales hours more closely with tourist behavior.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Air Force commander to prepare aircraft to evacuate Thai nationals stranded in Iran, placing all relevant agencies on 24-hour standby. The order was issued yesterday as tensions in the Middle East escalate.
Crude oil prices jumped more than 10% on Monday, surging about 13% at the market open as the escalating war in the Middle East rattled global markets. US stock index futures opened sharply lower, while gold climbed alongside oil as investors moved into perceived safe havens.
The rapid escalation of conflict in the Gulf region is once again reminding the world how closely geopolitics, markets, and tourism are intertwined. As military action involving the United States and Israel against Iran reverberates across the Middle East, reports of retaliatory strikes and heightened security alerts have created understandable concern well beyond the immediate region.
Thailand’s exports to Iran, led by canned and processed fruit and rubber-related products, could face disruption risks as fighting involving Iran, the United States, and Israel escalates, raising concerns over logistics, insurance costs, and payment channels for trade with the region.
Medical Tourism Corp. (MTC), a Dallas-based international healthcare facilitation organization, has released its Thailand Dental Tourism Market Research Report 2026, a comprehensive analysis of patient demand patterns, competitive positioning, and strategic growth opportunities across six major Thai cities.
Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Vacation in Thailand
Hua Hin 4th for Chinese tourists/PROUD posts record revenue/Centara Hua Hin owner sets growth target/Red Cross urges urgent blood donations/Repair of Bangkok sinkhole/Coconut Crisis: Prices Crash
Centara Hua Hin owner sets robust growth target
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), delivered a keynote address titled “Thailand’s Sustainomy Context: Capturing New Growth and Mitigating Unprecedented Risks” at the Future Ready 2026 event yesterday. 
A working group of the European Association for Business and Commerce (EABC) has expressed strong interest in supporting Thailand’s expanding logistics and rail sectors, citing the country’s 2,400-kilometer double-track railway network as a key driver of lower regional transport costs and stronger supply-chain efficiency.
Despite early signs of a rebound in Chinese arrivals during the first two months, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is downplaying expectations for a strong recovery, preferring to wait until May to assess whether demand has stabilized.
The MotoGP 2026 season has officially kicked off with the PT Grand Prix of Thailand at Chang International Circ uit in Buriram through March 1. Fans gathered to witness the season’s first race featuring the world’s top riders.
Explore Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities
A Thai holiday used to be easy to stereotype: a family trip at Songkran, a beach weekend when the heat bites, a once-a-year splurge overseas. But AirAsia MOVE’s latest behavioral data suggests Thailand’s travelers are now split into three distinct camps — each with its own rhythm, priorities, and idea of what counts as “worth it”.
Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged cross-border attacks overnight in a dramatic escalation of tensions that led Pakistan’s defense minister to say yesterday that the two countries are in a state of “open war.” 
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course hosts first Thai LPGA event of year
Road accidents in Thailand fell in 2025, according to new data released yesterday at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. Police Gen. Samran Nuanma, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police and director of the Traffic Management Center, said statistics show a decline in crashes, fatalities, and injuries. However, speeding remains the leading cause of accidents nationwide.
The Election Commission (EC) has announced the final voter turnout for the 2026 general election, with 37.8 million voters (71.4%) participating on Feb.8. 
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has started upgrading traffic signals at various intersections, incorporating an adaptive system using CCTV and AI technology to adjust in real time. This initiative aims to transition from fixed-timing to automated adaptive control, improving convenience and reducing time on the roads.
Rising memory component costs have pushed up launch prices for Samsung’s latest flagship lineup, with several models in the new Galaxy S26 series debuting up to 20% higher than their Galaxy S25 predecessors in Thailand.
The operator of the BTS Skytrain has called on passengers to refrain from flicking or tossing their hair while traveling during peak hours, warning that loose locks could accidentally strike fellow commuters in the face, shoulders, eyes, or mouth.
This year continues to be a period of high uncertainty for Thai businesses, driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic policies, interest rate directions, and the transition to new technologies. Meanwhile, domestic factors such as a strong Thai baht, high household debt, weak demand, and a fragile economic structure are further intensifying the pressure on the business sector.
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) expects the baht to gradually weaken against the US dollar, reaching 33 baht per dollar in the fourth quarter of this year, driven by a combination of domestic and external factors.
Factory activity in Thailand picked up in January, driven by heightened political activity during the election campaign and strong demand in the automotive sector, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
The global semiconductor industry is entering an increasingly strategic phase, driven by accelerated investments in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and electric vehicles (EV).
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of Commerce, has revealed that the Thai government and the government of the People’s Republic of China have reached a government-to-government rice-trading agreement for a volume of 40,000 tons.
Over the past few weeks, local news headlines have been dominated by complaints from some foreign tourists claiming that Thailand is becoming too expensive, while some Thais are being perceived as unfriendly — or even rude — to visitors.
Thailand’s wellness market expanded from $38.8 billion in 2023 to $42.7 billion in 2024. According to the latest Global Wellness Economy: Country Ranking Report by GWI, Thailand ranked #7 among the world’s top 25 wellness markets for growth between 2023 and 2024, achieving an impressive 10.1% increase.
Thailand is every wanderer’s dream: temples rising into brilliant blue skies, tuk-tuks zipping past street carts sizzling with spice, and tropical beaches that seem to glow at sunset. But because the kingdom stretches from misty northern hills to two distinct coastal systems, deciding when to go is almost as important as where you go.
A Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao — Thailand’s Tiny Gulf Escape
Technology giants, including Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta, have in recent months announced plans to spend over US$600 billion on AI in 2026 alone. The investment wave has already fueled unease among some investors about the profitability of this strategy. They have reason to be worried, as the ambitious US AI expansion plans are likely to be hobbled by severe power-infrastructure bottlenecks, including turbine shortages, slow grid expansion, and regulatory red tape. 
Thailand will enforce a ban on alcohol sales for Makha Bucha Day, which falls on March 3 this year. According to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, sales are prohibited on specific Buddhist holidays.
Thailand’s housing market in 2025 was like a ship battling rough seas all year, only beginning to see a glimmer of light in the final quarter. Data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) show that in Q4 2025, the market started to recover quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) after short-term stimulus measures, or a “Quick Big Win”, including cuts to transfer and mortgage registration fees and relaxed loan-to-value (LTV) criteria.
The Bank of Thailand says the cycle of policy rate cuts has ended, with yesterday’s reduction deemed sufficient to support the Thai economy. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 4-2 yesterday to cut the policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 1%, effective immediately.
Thai rice exports fell by 17.5% in January compared with the same month last year, as a strong baht reduced the country’s price competitiveness. Export volume totaled 530,287 tons, down from 643,144 tons a year earlier. Export value dropped to B9.707 billion, a 30.7% decrease.
U-Tapao Airport project to kick off on April 3
Thailand’s overall border and transit trade in January reached a total value of 161.1 billion baht, a 10.9% increase year-on-year, with China remaining a leading transit market, said deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana.
Lazada Thailand is shifting its strategy to “confidence commerce”, prioritizing trust and reliability over price or delivery speed. The strategy aims to strengthen LazMall in response to the continued growth of Thailand’s e-commerce market.
Your vape just got you arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport. You thought it was fine, legal in your home country, tucked discreetly in your carry-on. But Thailand does not care if what you bring is legal back home. The customs officer is now holding your device, citing a 2014 import ban, and you are facing up to 10 years in prison and a 500,000 baht fine.
Thailand’s coffee landscape is being rewritten. Once seen mainly as a local staple or bulk commodity, Thai coffee is evolving into a globally recognized premium product.
Thailand recorded 839 fire hotspots Saturday, according to satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), with more than half detected in forest areas. The figures, gathered by the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system, underline continued concerns over haze and PM2.5 pollution.
The Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital at Mahidol University has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) program to interpret lung and chest X-rays with accuracy above 95%, comparable to specialist radiologists. The system has already been used in more than 500,000 real patient cases. It can deliver results in under 10 seconds per case, significantly speeding up diagnosis.
Police in Songkhla arrested a Thai man for beating and burning a Siberian Husky on Feb. 13. The suspect said he acted in retaliation after the dog attacked his rooster.
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
Senior U.S. officials have confirmed that President Donald Trump’s defeat at the U.S. Supreme Court over import tariffs will not cause trade agreements negotiated with U.S. allies to collapse. The officials were defending the administration’s aggressive trade policy.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has approved a 579,135-million-baht investment framework for fiscal year 2027, advancing three major rail projects, including double-track lines, Red Line extensions, and the Thai–Chinese high-speed railway Phase 2.
A new social media trend has gone viral as foreign tourists conclude their visits to Thailand by posting “Thank you Thailand” videos, drawing widespread attention online. The clips show visitors bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed accounts of their trips.
AllClear, a UK insurance company, has revealed research showing that taxi scams can occur anywhere and at any time, particularly when visitors appear unfamiliar with local fares. Since Decembe, the travel insurer has analyzed more than 450 Reddit posts and over 30,000 comments discussing taxi scams to identify the countries attracting the most complaints.
Pattaya’s beachfront has returned to a lively, international atmosphere as Thailand’s peak tourism season gathers pace, with large numbers of foreign visitors flocking to the city each day. A recent on-site survey by reporters found beaches and public spaces busy with overseas tourists, underscoring renewed momentum in Thailand’s tourism recovery — particularly in major destinations favored by international travelers.
Phuket has secured three major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events in 2026, reinforcing its status as a world-class meetings destination and advancing global agendas on sustainability, wellness, and diversity.
Soon enough, it appears the comfort of Thailand will be as marked up as any other run-of-the-mill overseas getaway. Price gouging and skyrocketing hotel rates are, of course, obvious reasons why tourists may be reconsidering spending the Thai baht. But the shift seems intentional.
The world’s most liveable countries tend to share a similar mix of strengths: impressive architecture, thoughtful urban planning, and cultures shaped by artistic expression. Creating a “liveable” destination is not necessarily tied directly to GDP or military power; instead, a sustained focus on design can play a meaningful role in improving quality of life.
Facing a fabulous ocean isn’t enough these days for an ambitious coastline. A glittery tag, like Gold, Sapphire, Emerald or d’Azure, is a branding imperative. Thailand came up with a real winner for its Gulf shoreline – the Royal Coast. And then forgot to tell the world.
Thailand will enter its hot season on Sunday. Summer storms could start right away and temperatures in some northern provinces may reach a peak above 42 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department.
The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (NDPMC) has ordered all provinces to step up preparedness to prevent and address drought in 2026, stressing efficient water management — especially securing reserves for household consumption. Provinces have been instructed to draw up contingency plans and survey backup water sources to minimize impacts on the public.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has issued a warning to the public about a fraudulent Facebook page using its initials to trick individuals into paying for driving licenses without the need for exams or in-person applications.
The government has ordered nationwide enforcement of stricter firearm regulations, instructing registrars to more rigorously scrutinize gun license applications and suspending the issuance of carry permits.
Thailand is ranked ninth globally for online fraud losses, with more than 27 billion baht lost in 2025 and victims suffering average losses of 37,000 baht per person. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has warned that cybercrime will become more complex in 2026, particularly through the use of AI Deepfake technology.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has reported on the progress of the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027). Particularly in the first two years of the plan, despite efforts to drive various initiatives, the distribution of economic opportunities across sectors has not effectively reduced regional disparities, especially in addressing poverty.
Yesterday, the Department of Tourism, through its Thailand Film Office, participated with an exhibition booth at the European Film Market 2026 (EFM 2026) in Berlin. The aim was to promote Thailand’s potential as an international filming destination, while pushing for continued foreign film production in Thailand to generate sustained income for the country.
Siamese freshwater crocodiles released in Kaeng Krachan
Thailand’s automotive industry is navigating its most profound transformation in 0 years, as the nation moves away from its traditional reliance on internal combustion engines (ICE). While the country remains the “Detroit of Asia” and holds a prestigious production rank of 10th globally, its domestic market was historically defined by the dominance of 1-ton pickup trucks.
On the 30th floor of the Chartered Square building in downtown Bangkok, the low-key office of Skyhub Technologies serves as a nexus for a burgeoning and contentious trade. The space, rented out by a serviced office provider, is visited only rarely by the company’s sole director and occasionally by Chinese nationals, according to building staff who asked not to be identified speaking about clients. 
The Hua Hin property market is emerging as a relative bright spot in Thailand’s challenging real estate sector, supported by sustained foreign demand that is helping to offset weak domestic purchasing power.
The Department of Disease Control (DDC), in collaboration with the Department of Corrections, visited a prison to investigate an Mpox outbreak following a reported fatality. Most recently, two additional close contacts tested positive.
A group of foreign residents in Pattaya has lodged a complaint with the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) after allegedly losing more than 300 million baht in a fraudulent gold-trading investment scheme branded “King Power Gold”.
Thailand’s Industrial Confidence Index rose marginally to 88.7 in January, up from 88.2 in December, as the manufacturing sector returned to full swing following the New Year holiday and demand picked up ahead of the Lunar New Year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Thai hotel operators are forecasting stable foreign tourist arrivals in 2026, particularly from short-haul markets excluding China, while urging the government to strengthen safety measures and boost traveler confidence.
Thailand is steadily cementing its reputation as one of the leading global destinations for medical tourism, attracting millions of international patients each year with its high-quality healthcare services, affordability, and attractive recovery options.
Two listed firms, PTT Oil and Retail (OR) and Central Plaza Hotel (Centel), announced a joint venture that will run budget hotels at PTT petrol stations. OR, oil trade flagship of national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc, reported on Tuesday night that its board of directors approved the establishment of the joint venture.
Chiang Mai International Airport has recorded a new post-Covid high in passenger traffic, with daily numbers surpassing 36,000, as airlines added 69 extra and charter flights to accommodate Lunar New Year demand.
Puphaman National Park, located in Loei and Khon Kaen provinces, has called on the public to stop feeding wild elephants by leaving fruit and other edible items for them, warning that such well-intentioned acts could ultimately harm the animals and increase the risk of human-elephant conflict.
Hua Hin City Municipality has stepped up its sexual health education efforts ahead of Valentine’s Day, holding a campaign on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention for local secondary school students.
Addressing economic problems tops the public’s wish list for a new government led by the Bhumjaithai Party, with measures to reduce the cost of living ranking highest among expectations, according to a KPI poll released yesterday.
The Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) has issued new guidelines for the Trade Competition Act of 2017, expected to be published in the Royal Gazette next month, aiming to curb unfair trade practices and prevent monopolistic behavior in multi-sided platform businesses, with a focus on e-commerce.
Tourism operators are urging the government to reform law enforcement and regulation, as businesses and tourists suffer from worsening bribery issues, hampering the nation’s tourism reputation.
There is a type of foreigner in Thailand most tourists never notice. They don’t hang out in sports bars, don’t argue online about beer prices, and don’t complain that “Thailand isn’t what it used to be.” You won’t find them on Soi 6 or Walking Street, and if you do pass them somewhere local, you might not even realize they’re foreigners at all.
Bangkok is famous for many things – incredible street food, stunning temples, and a wellness scene that draws visitors from around the world. With so many spas scattered across the city, finding the right spa package in Bangkok can feel overwhelming.
Chiang Mai food tour: Must-try eats, street food, hidden cafes
Discover Kaeng Ko’s sunken temple and giant rain tree in Lamphun
The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) is holding its first networking event of 2026 in Hua Hin, hosted at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
A family’s day in Thailand can change in an instant when an accident sends a child to the emergency room, with medical bills rising beyond USD 10,000 within hours. While Thailand appeals to many expat families for its safety, lifestyle, and education options, healthcare costs can be high, especially at private hospitals.
Recently, a couple posted on the social media forum about their experience near Chiang Mai. They found a puppy being bullied by other strays and felt compelled to help. With only two days before leaving the northern province and embarking on a two-week trip around Thailand, they wondered whether bringing the dog to the US was feasible within their timeframe.
The prices of computers and some IT products have skyrocketed as a result of rising rates for memory chips in the global market. Memory chip prices have increased by 80%-90% quarter-on-quarter in 2026, according to the February issue of Memory Price Tracker, marking an unprecedented surge.
A cluster of nine earthquakes measuring between 1.9 and 3.2 on the Richter scale struck tambon Khao Phang in Ban Ta Khun district of the southern province of Surat Thani between Wednesday and Thursday morning, the Department of Mineral Resources reported.
Many Thai small and medium-sized businesses — often run from homes, co-working spaces or cafés — face rising cyber risks that can be as harmful as a flooded shop or a lost delivery. From careless clicks to old software, a single mistake can stop a small team’s operations.
Over the past five years, both public and private universities have been setting up new faculties and launching courses linked to health, driven by the rapidly growing health economy from the trend of people paying more attention to health (wellness) to achieve longevity — living longer in good health.
Thailand’s position as a strategic hub for investors targeting the ASEAN region continues to strengthen, supported by record investment inflows, future-ready national strategies, major connectivity upgrades and rising international confidence in the country’s economic direction.
The highly volatile price swings of gold, which is impacting many Thais obsessed with the yellow metal, has forced the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to step in to regulate the large volume of trading affecting the baht’s rate.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported today that PM2.5 levels have surged, with the citywide average hitting 38.7 µg/m³ at 7 am, above the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst affected areas include Nong Chok, where PM2.5 levels hit 50.6 µg/m³.
Bangkok is set to strengthen its waste-management system with two new waste-to-energy power plants being developed by C&G Environmental Protection (Thailand). The projects, valued at 12 billion baht, are located in Nong Khaem in southwest Bangkok and On Nut on the eastern portion of the capital, said chief executive He Ning.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced yesterday the revocation of scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions are harmful to human health, along with the cancellation of vehicle exhaust emissions standards for cars and trucks, This move marks the largest cancellation of climate change policy by this administration to date, following the removal of regulations and actions aimed at promoting fossil fuel development while hindering the growth of clean energy. 
Ongoing efforts to derail multilateral tax cooperation lie at the heart of a global program to replace democratic governance with coercive rule by the extremely wealthy – or what we call 21st-century Caesarism. Any strategy to counter this program, therefore, must recognize that taxing extreme wealth is essential to saving democracy.