- Hua Hin’s new municipal building/Food sanitation standards under scrutiny/Provinces search for sand/Mövenpick Hua Hin hotel and spa/Harvest Wine Run Festival returns/Why Thailand’s enforcement is suddenly feeling very real/Bhumjaithai in landslide victory/Shift Toward Nationalism and Monarchy/PM2.5 pollution rises/Thailand’s burned area hits 2.26-million rai/Choosing the right air purifier/Thai–Cambodian Border Residents Brace/Thai Navy Intercepts Cambodian Fishing Boats/Buri Ram’s Airport terminal/Attack Raises Urgent Wildlife Safety Questions
- ECONOMY: Bhumjaithai’s economic policy roundup/Business urges swift economic action/Bhumjaithai export plan/Infrastructure key for Thai growth/Turning local beef into premium product/U.S. Proposes 25% Tariff on AI Chips/Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant/Thailand as global halal hub
- TOURISM: Thailand’s tourism reality check/Chiang Mai tourism in flux/Tourists use hands to remove ice
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms/Ayutthaya Travel Guide/Learn how to cook Thai food/Bangkok’s oldest Thai restaurants
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Climate change discourse takes a new turn/Cargo ship sinks near Phuket
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT AND LINKS
Hua Hin to get new 7-story municipal building
Hua Hin City has approved the design for a new seven-story municipal office building, marking the next stage of a major infrastructure project that will combine a comprehensive medical service hub and a city museum, alongside an expanded disaster-prevention center.
The plans were reviewed on Friday during a meeting chaired by Nopporn Wutikul, mayor of Hua Hin. The seven-story building will be constructed behind the current Hua Hin City Municipality office. Once completed, it is expected to serve as an integrated public service center, with a strong focus on health and community facilities. Continued …
Food sanitation standards under scrutiny
Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.
The meeting of the western central regional network was held on Friday at the Phetchaburi Provincial Public Health Office. The event brought together 120 participants from the restaurant, street food, and fresh market sectors to discuss how to improve food sanitation standards and strengthen cooperation between operators and public health authorities. Continued …
Provinces search for sand as beaches erode
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.
Officials said beach nourishment is considered one of the most effective non-structural measures for stabilizing shorelines affected by coastal erosion. The approach involves adding sand to restore balance to the coastline and improve beach conditions. Continued …
Mövenpick to open new hotel and spa in Hua Hin
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing for a new hotel and spa in Thailand. The Swiss company will open a new beach resort in Hua Hin.
the new 190-room Mövenpick Resort & Spa, Hua Hin, will be located on the West Coast of the Gulf of Thailand – a leisure destination famous for its pristine beaches, golf courses, and hill hiking. The new hotel will take its inspiration from the Thai beach resort atmosphere and offer landscaped gardens, a luxury spa, two restaurants, a lobby lounge, ballroom, pool, and function rooms. – sportsmanagement.co.uk
Harvest Wine Run Festival returns to Monsoon Valley March 7
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
This one-of-a-kind wine run through Monsoon Valley Vineyardis perfect for runners, joggers, walkers, wine lovers, and families. To join the event, complete the registration form. Continued …
Nominees, Bank Accounts, and Border Checks: Why Thailand’s enforcement is suddenly feeling very real
For years, there has been a quiet understanding among many foreign business owners in Thailand – as long as nothing goes wrong, nobody looks too closely. That assumption is starting to crack.
Over the past few days, Phuket has become a very public reminder that Thailand’s authorities are no longer content with rules existing on paper. They are enforcing them on the ground, across agencies, and with consequences that are no longer theoretical. Continued …
Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete
The Bhumjaithai Party of caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has won 174 House constituency seats, followed by the People’s Party with 87, and 58 for the Pheu Thai Party, according to the Election Commission.
The unofficial vote result dashboard of the EC reported the results after 94% of ballots was counted at 3.57 am on Monday. There are 400 House seats for constituency MPs. Continued …
Thailand’s Election Reflects Shift Toward Nationalism and Monarchy
Thailand’s election marked a significant shift as the nation embraced nationalism and the monarchy, moving away from a progressive movement that had gained traction in recent years. The election results are a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape.
The outcome indicates a return to traditional values, with voters favoring candidates who support the monarchy and national identity over progressive reforms. This election result underscores the complex dynamics within Thailand’s political environment, where traditional and modern influences continue to vie for dominance. – binance.com
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PM2.5 pollution rises for fifth day amid illegal agricultural fires
PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.
Montri Kiatphaophan, director of the regional office, said authorities have detected repeated illegal burning of rice stubble and agricultural waste across four provinces under its jurisdiction — Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Buri Ram, and Surin. The burning is being carried out to clear land for new planting cycles, as well as through open fires that have triggered wildfires and widespread smoke, worsening air pollution. Continued …
Thailand’s burned area hits 2.26-million rai in January
Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.
The agency said the scale of burning reflects the severity of the problem and has a clear link to surging PM2.5 levels in many parts of the country, particularly early in the year when weather conditions can trap pollution and limit air circulation. Continued …
Choosing the right air purifier for Thailand’s rising air pollution
As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.
Air purifiers are designed to remove microscopic dust and PM2.5 particles that accumulate indoors, offering immediate relief for those sensitive to respiratory irritation. During peak pollution seasons, when haze blankets major cities, these devices help residents breathe more easily and reduce the strain on their lungs. Continued …
Thai–Cambodian Border Residents Brace for Possible Third Clash
Residents near the Chong Chom border crossing in Surin province say they are preparing for a possible third round of fighting, citing daily provocations by Cambodian troops and rising insecurity, with some households ready to evacuate. The comments came as uncertainty along the Thai–Cambodian border continued to affect local communities and cross-border trade.
The concerns surfaced after reports that the Japanese government had urged Thailand and Cambodia to reopen border crossings quickly, following closures that have reportedly affected several Japanese companies operating in the area. Continued …
Thai Navy Intercepts Cambodian Fishing Boats Near Koh Kood
The Royal Thai Navy’s First Naval Area Command deployed patrol vessels yesterday to intercept approximately 25 Cambodian fishing boats that were found illegally operating in Thai territorial waters south of Koh Kood. The incident prompted an immediate security response, though no arrests were ultimately made as the vessels fled back into Cambodian waters.
According to the First Naval Area Command Operations Center, naval authorities received intelligence reports from maritime sources indicating that a group of Cambodian-flagged fishing boats had crossed into Thai waters and were actively fishing. The vessels were detected around 2 kilometers inside Thai territorial waters, an area under routine naval surveillance. Continued …
Buri Ram’s Airport terminal begins trial run
The Department of Airports (DOA) has held a soft opening of the new passenger terminal at Buri Ram airport, marking a major upgrade to regional transport infrastructure.
The trial service processed passengers from four Thai AirAsia flights on the Don Mueang–Buri Ram route to test systems and readiness before the MotoGP 2026 Grand Prix of Thailand later this month. Continued …
Thailand Park Elephant Attack Raises Urgent Wildlife Safety Questions
A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.
It is tempting to frame this as a single “dangerous elephant” story. However, the bigger picture is about rising pressure where people and wildlife overlap. Thailand’s park agency has reported more than 220 deaths from wild elephants since 2012. At the same time, wild elephant numbers have grown sharply in the past decade, which increases the chances of conflict, especially in places where tourism, roads, campsites, and farms push deeper into elephant territory. Continued …
Bhumjaithai’s economic policy roundup
The Bhumjaithai Party’s economic policy under the “Thailand 10 Plus” strategy focuses on driving Thailand’s economy out of a slowdown, with a targeted “GDP growth of 3% plus”, broken down into the following areas:
- Policies for inclusive growth (Inclusive Growth): The Bhumjaithai Party emphasizes supporting people on low incomes and reducing inequality, including Small People Plus (Kon Tua Lek Plus), with its measures to ease household costs and reduce the cost-of-living burden, such as an electricity tariff of below 3 baht per unit for the first 200 units. Continued …
Stability first: Business urges swift economic action
In January, Thailand weathered baht appreciation, volatile gold prices, and the likelihood of a temporary halt in government spending as the country awaits the formation of a new government following yesterday’s election.
Businesses expect that once a new government is formed, the leadership will promptly implement measures to prevent a fragile economy from facing further risks in the aftermath of the power vacuum. Continued …
Bhumjaithai export plan: cut US, China reliance
Bhumjaithai has outlined an export policy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional markets and strengthening SMEs to compete globally.
Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said Thai exports face risks from heavy dependence on the United States and China, which together account for around one-third of Thailand’s total export value. She stressed the need to accelerate expansion into new markets and reduce concentration across markets, exporters, and product categories, while upgrading SMEs and promoting “Made in Thailand” to build a stronger and more sustainable long-term economic base. Continued …
Infrastructure key for Thai growth
Short-term economic stimulus measures introduced by the next government are expected to provide temporary relief, though sustainable growth will depend on continued infrastructure investment and policies that encourage long-term savings, says InnovestX Securities.
Piyasak Manason, head of economic research at InnovestX, said populist stimulus schemes such as cash handouts, debt relief, consumption incentives, tax rebates for domestic tourism, and receipt-based lottery programs may help support consumption in the near term, but their impact typically fades quickly. Continued …
How Thailand is turning local beef into a global premium product
Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.
Under the concept “Thai Innovative Beef, Global Taste,” the festival highlights the role of agricultural and food innovation in upgrading Thai beef to international standards and expanding opportunities in the global premium market. Continued …
Global Supply Chains at Risk as the U.S. Proposes 25% Tariff on AI Chips
The United States will enforce a 25% import tariff on certain advanced AI chips, effective Jan. 15. This applies globally, including imports from Thailand. The tariff targets high-performance processors such as Nvidia’s H200 and AMD’s MI325X, aiming to strengthen domestic chip manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Some exemptions apply, including chips used in U.S. data centers, research, and startups, which will face a 0% tariff initially.
The tariff increase is expected to disrupt the global semiconductor supply chain, raising production costs and encouraging investment to return to the U.S. This could cause ripple effects in Thailand, particularly in electronic exports and component supply chains to economies like China and Taiwan. Although Thailand’s direct exports of advanced chips to the U.S. remain limited, indirect impacts and investment volatility in the region may occur. Continued …
Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed
Thailand possesses four key strengths that make it an attractive location for ASML, the world’s leading chip machinery manufacturer: a strong electronics industry, reliable electrical infrastructure, low risk of conflict, and a trusted production base that respects intellectual property.
Academics suggest that the government should develop a clear “grand strategy” to link the semiconductor industry with other sectors, ensuring quick returns on investment and attracting long-term foreign investments. Continued …
Push for development of Thailand into global halal hub
The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.
He said halal tourism can potentially drive growth. Heurged stronger cooperation between the public and private sectors to develop the halal industry, noting the private sector’s robust presence in production, exports, and education. Continued …
Thailand’s tourism reality check as China forecast misses and new risk emerges from India
Thailand’s tourism industry enters 2026 at a complex and delicately balanced moment. The long-anticipated rebound in Chinese arrivals has fallen short of official forecasts, while breaking news of a virus outbreak in India and Nepal now threatens to disrupt one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets. Together, these developments point to a tourism sector moving beyond recovery and into a period of structural adjustment.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand originally forecast around eight million Chinese arrivals for 2025, expecting a strong post-pandemic recovery supported by restored air capacity. In reality, Chinese arrivals reached approximately 5.5 million, a shortfall of about 2.5 million visitors and a decline of roughly 30% year on year. Continued …
Chiang Mai tourism in flux
Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the province set a new record in 2025 with 12 million visitors, including 4 million from overseas. Among the top five markets, the US ranked fifth after China, South Korea, Malaysia, and Taiwan. Continued …
Tourists use hands to remove ice, fear it will make them sick on Koh Samui
A foreign tourist has sparked online backlash after posting a video of herself removing ice from a drink at a restaurant on Koh Samui, prompting debate over hygiene and cultural awareness.
In the clip, the woman is seen dipping her hand into a glass, taking out the ice and throwing it away, accompanied by captions suggesting concern about being in Thailand and fearing illness from unsafe water. She later clarified in comments that she and her friend were worried the ice might be unclean and could make them sick. Continued …
I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms
Scanning the yellow-green bushes lining the foothills of Chiang Mai, I looked up in defeat. With an oversized bamboo basket strapped over my shoulders, I had been instructed to pluck tea leaves that bore a specific pattern: one big and one small leaf sandwiching an unfurled one.
The combo seemed so specific and impossible to find among the endless clusters of shrubs. Growing restless, I turned around, when … jackpot! Snapping off the perfect formation with glee, I proudly marched it over to the resident plucker. She smiled gently and nodded slightly in approval. Continued …
Ayutthaya Travel Guide: Explore Thailand’s Most Fascinating UNESCO Day Trip
Once Thailand’s capital, Ayutthaya is about 90 minutes (80 kilometers) from Bangkok and feels like a different country altogether, quieter, slower, and filled with ruins that reward unhurried wandering. It took me about 90 minutes on a local bus from the Bangkok Bus Terminal (aka Chatuchak or Mochit 2) to turn back the clock and travel back to a different world.
Ayutthaya was once one of the power centers in Southeast Asia, a city that housed a million residents. If the name has a familiar ring to it, it’s because this former capital took its name from Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram. Continued …
Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too
The air is alive with the mouth-watering aromas of lemongrass, coriander, and freshly grated ginger. We can almost taste them, and taste them we will, because today we’ll be preparing traditional Thai fare – in Thailand, no less.
A group of 10 culinary-curious tourists have gathered at the Zabb E Lee Cooking School in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai. There are two five-hour courses to choose from, in the morning and late afternoon, held in an airy bamboo pavilion surrounded by tropical greenery. Continued …
Bangkok’s oldest Thai restaurants you should visit
They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.
These places are proud of their recipes. After all, they have been serving the same since their shops opened. It’s the peak definition of “tried-and-true.” Continued …
Climate change discourse takes a new turn
What a difference a single year makes. The once-dominant push to radically reshape society to avert climate catastrophe has collapsed. Look at Davos – the talkfest long dominated by climate advocacy. That consensus has been abandoned by its once strongest proponents.
Emblematic of the shift: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen didn’t mention the climate transition once in her 2026 Davos talk – after putting it front and center in preceding years. Continued …
Oil spill cleanup underway after cargo ship sinks near Phuket
- Colombian Suspect Arrested Over Iraqi National Killing in Patong – Continued …
- Two Turkish Men Arrested at Phuket Airport Over Fake Stamps – Continued …
Japan’s ‘Iron Lady’ Takaichi forges stunning election win
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China. Video …
Bad Bunny celebrates Puerto Rico in joyous Super Bowl halftime show
Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny yesterday turned the Super Bowl into a giant street party, delivering his hits on one of the world’s biggest stages – and becoming the first-ever halftime show headliner to sing only in Spanish. Anticipation was high for the 31-year-old’s set, amid rampant speculation about whether he would use his platform to renew his criticism of President Donald Trump’s administration in front of tens of millions of viewers. 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
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is holding the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
From Feb. 8 to 11, a moderate to strong high-pressure system, or cold air mass, from China will cover the upper parts of Thailand, leading to thunderstorms initially, followed by a decrease in temperature and strong winds.
Air quality in Bangkok has worsened, with PM2.5 levels exceeding safe standards, causing respiratory issues. Eastern Bangkok records the highest levels.
Two timebombs were defused at the Pattani bus terminal in Muang district yesterday after they were found hidden a toilet, with authorities saying they resembled previous finds at several petrol stations in the province.
The president of Thailand’s fifth-largest bank has acknowledged the country’s economic challenges following its recent characterization as the “sick man of Asia”, arguing the malaise requires deep structural reforms rather than temporary stimulus, while unveiling a strategy to bolster sustainable finance by 40% to 350 billion baht (US$10.1 billion) by 2030.
TikTok has confirmed its long-term investment plan in Thailand worth 270 billion baht, according to caretaker finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
Thailand’s border trade grew to Bt1.937 trillion in 2025, a 6.7% increase from the previous year, as reported by the Ministry of Commerce. This growth allowed the country to maintain a substantial trade surplus amid regional disruptions. Exports reached BT1.063 trillion, and imports rose to Bt874 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of Bt188.6 billion.
The Gold Traders Assn. reported that gold prices were adjusted 101 times throughout yesterday, with prices falling by Bt2,300 compared with trading on Feb. 4.
Bangkok restaurateur Sorathep Steve said he was told off last Saturday by customers who had just flown in from the United States and ordered a bottle of wine, only to be told of Thailand’s election-linked ban on alcohol.
The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) conducted a “Tourism Business Confidence Index” survey in Q4 2025, involving 302 foreign tourists in Bangkok and Chonburi. The survey revealed that while overall safety concerns were moderate, specific issues like scams were highly problematic, and the strength of the Thai baht significantly influenced 90% of visitors’ travel decisions.
Thailand’s Hat Yai picks up the pieces in wake of devastating floods
B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) is positioning clean energy as a game changer for Thailand’s energy transition, accelerating its push into renewables as the country and global industry move toward a low-carbon future.
Bitcoin sank in early Asia trading today, extending a selloff that had already erased all the gains booked by the token since US President Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory. The original cryptocurrency fell as much as 4.8% to a fresh low of US$60,033 this morning, after hours earlier plunging to its lowest level since October 2024, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. It later pared those losses and was up by more than 2% to over $64,400 by 9.12 am in Singapore. 
Australian undercover inspectors have found pubs fail to pour enough beer and other alcohol into customers’ glasses for nearly a third of the drinks they serve. The government sent “secret shopper” officials to 436 licensed venues across the country in October to check if they were filling glasses high enough. Preliminary findings showed 32% of the drinks they served failed to deliver the “correct amount”, said the National Measurement Institute’s audit report released this week. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will organize the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
The inaugural Hua Hin Ultra Marathon 2026 will take place on Saturday, May 23, marking the first time the city has hosted an ultra-distance running event of this scale. The race will start and finish at Rajabhakti Park and will offer four distances, ranging from a 10-kilometer evening run to a 100-kilometer ultra marathon.
Chiva-Som Hua Hin has been celebrated for its unique approach to wellness, commitment to excellence, and heartfelt care,. These awards recognize excellence not only in personal transformation but also in its pioneering commitment to corporate responsibility, environmental wellness, and strong local community engagement.
The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA, reported the latest hotspot index on Sunday, based on data from the Suomi NPP satellite via the VIIRS system.
The Board of Investment (BOI) says Japanese investment applications surged 146% in 2025 to more than 119 billion baht, signaling growing confidence in an economic rebound in early 2026. The sharp rise reflects stronger sentiment among Japanese firms operating in Thailand and reinforces the country’s position as a key production base in ASEAN.
Small-scale egg farmers are facing a growing economic crisis after large commercial farms and wholesalers began selling eggs below average production costs, pushing market prices to unsustainable levels.
Thailand’s PTT Exploration and Production said Friday it acquired full ownership of Block A-18 in the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area from Chevron in a $450M deal. The Thai company said it signed the deal with Hess and Hess Asia Holdings, both now owned by Chevron following the recently closed merger deal with Hess.
Chinese New Year celebrations in Yaowarat, Bangkok, will be canceled during the mourning period for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, according to the Samphanthawong District Office yesterday.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is optimistic about sports tourism growth this year as it hosts the Amazing Muay Thai Festival this week, expecting more than 18,000 visitors.
The Woven Heritage of Thai Fabrics: Tradition Meets Modern Identity
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DOAE) has announced the establishment of 30 “Green Gain Hubs” across Thailand, aimed at tackling air pollution caused by agricultural burning. This initiative addresses the severe impact on public health, the economy, and the environment, and is also aimed at reducing the negative effects on agricultural production, including soil degradation, high production costs, and lower yields.
Thailand’s electric mass transit rail network in Bangkok and its surrounding areas is progressing according to the master plan. With a goal of 33 routes spanning 553.41 kilometers, the country is making significant strides in urban transport development.
Foreign man flags sea pollution off Jomtien Beach in Pattaya
Italy’s Trevi Fountain launched a new ticketing system yesterday, making the famous Rome landmark the latest tourist site to charge entry in a bid to raise funds and battle overcrowding. People posed in the sunshine in front of the Baroque masterpiece after paying the €2 (US1.68) fee to access the now largely crowd-free area next to the basin. 
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted that the summer of 2026 will be hotter than the previous year. The summer season is expected to begin later than usual, around the end of February (approximately two weeks later than typical), and will last until mid-May 2026.
Thailand is facing a “perfect storm”, as a low birth rate, persistent poverty, and a rapidly aging society place mounting pressure on the tax base, welfare system, and social structure, says the Equitable Education Fund (EEF).
Ahead of the Feb. 8 election, various political parties in Thailand have expressed their support for sex workers, pledging to enhance protection and dignity under the law in a nation where prostitution remains illegal.
Cambodia has carried out a massive raid on scammer gangs, detaining more than 2,000 people amid pressure from China to crack down on its online fraud industry. Nearly 1,800 Chinese nationals were among those held, according to the Cambodian Interior Ministry.
Private consumption indicators in Thailand climbed 2.5% month-on-month in December, rebounding from a 0.3% fall in November and marking the sharpest rise since April 2022. Gains were broad-based across all spending categories, with growth in services spending led by hotels and restaurants, partly supported by government stimulus measures.
The rapid emergence of instant commerce in Thailand, a retail evolution defined by delivery within a few hours, will become the new battlefield for on-demand players and e-commerce platforms, say brands.
According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness economy has been continuously growing. In 2024, it was valued at US$6.8 trillion, increasing to US$7.3 trillion in 2025, and expected to reach US$7.9 trillion in 2026.
Gold prices hit a record high above $5,500 due to US-Iran tensions, with expectations of the Federal Reserve moving to rate cuts, pushing the baht to strengthen below 31 baht per dollar, the strongest in almost five years.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is calling for Thailand to expand into new high-potential markets to support the country’s export and manufacturing sectors, as key trading partners face economic weakness amid a global slowdown.
Thai durian exports are expected to face several hurdles due to labor shortages and a lack of collection centers during the harvest season. Durian supply is forecast to reach 1.78 million tons this year, with the eastern region contributing 1.06 million tons, or 59.5% of total output.
Thai gold prices on Saturday were down by 1,200 baht per baht-weight (15.2 grams), as a global and local correction continued after a surge to record highs earlier in the week.
This year is being seen as a “structural turning point” in business, as the combined pressures from the climate crisis, technological advancements, and demographic changes make the concept of “sustainability” no longer just a policy for improving image. It has become the new foundation for growth, competitiveness, and long-term survival for businesses.
Thai EV charging service provider Sharge has partnered with Grab to build a dedicated charging network for the company. It plans to invest over 400 million baht in the project.
Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman has warned that the rest of the world is starting to pull away from the United States, driven by frustration with President Donald Trump’s threats, and that the shift will ultimately leave Americans poorer. 
Airport screening for Nipah virus, which has been stepped up across Asia this week after two cases were identified in India, are more about reassurance than science, several leading experts said yesterday.
A World Health Organization official said yesterday that the risk of the spread of the Nipah virus is low, saying that none of the over 190 contacts of the two people infected in India had tested positive or developed symptoms of the disease.
Most Thai working people are aware of the health risks posed by PM2.5 airborne pollution but are reluctant to buy quality N95 face masks to protect themselves, claiming that they are too expensive, according to Arkhom Praditsuwan, director general of the Health Service Support Department.
At the “Thailand Redesign 2026 The Next Level” debate, four major political parties — the People’s Party, Democrat Party, Pheu Thai, and Thai Kao Mai Party — presented their proposals to tackle the pressing issue of Thailand’s 40 million workers, with only 4 million currently paying taxes. The debate focused on the wealth protocol and the urgent need for tax reform to drive economic sustainability and fairness.
Pattaya has introduced new rule assigning specific umbrella colors to beach chair operators, saying the move will improve orderliness and create a more attractive seaside view for visitors.
Think you’ve already done everything there is to do in Bangkok? Hate to break it to you, but probably not. Even if you’ve lost count of how many times you’ve visited, the city always finds new ways to surprise, including new attractions with thrilling rides and aesthetic shopping malls in BKK.
The Ministry of Culture has revealed plans for a major cultural celebration from April 22-26, marking the 244th Anniversary of the Foundation of Rattanakosin. The events will take place in three central locations in Bangkok and aim to bring the rich history of Thailand to life through a series of activities, exhibitions, and performances.
Thailand’s electric vehicle sector is facing fresh uncertainty after government proposals to sharply raise public EV charging prices, a move that could erase the cost benefits that have driven rapid adoption.
Thailand plans to tighten the rules for investors in data centers and other businesses that use a large amount of electricity, requiring them to provide a bank guarantee or collateral to secure power purchases.
Climate change is no longer a distant or abstract threat; it is part of everyday life. From unpredictable weather patterns to rising air pollution, communities across Thailand and around the world are already experiencing its impacts. As these challenges intensify, education is emerging as one of the most powerful starting points for meaningful climate action.
Authorities are tackling forest fires near Hua Hin after satellite data detected multiple hotspots over two consecutive days in forest areas toward Cha Am, prompting concern among local residents about air quality.
The Department of Medical Services has confirmed that Rajavithi Hospital and other major medical facilities are fully prepared to handle suspected or confirmed cases of Nipah virus infection, even though no cases have yet been reported in Thailand.
Government measures to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are expected to help increase monetary circulation in the economy by at least 260 billion baht this year, says the chief of Thai Credit Guarantee Corp. (TCG).
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has announced a vehicle manufacturing target of 1.5 million units for 2026, a modest increase from 1.45 million units last year, driven by expectations of stronger domestic demand and growing production of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
The influx of low-priced goods from China has a far more severe impact than US tariffs on Thai products, says Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Tech consulting firm Bluebik foresees three megatrends that will transform organizations into intelligent enterprises amid a volatile economy and intense competition.
China aims to attract at least 1.5 million Thai visitors this year, up from more than 1 million in 2025, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects to generate 35.4 billion baht from 1.25 million foreign tourists during the 10-day Chinese New Year holiday next month.
AirAsia issued an apology following a coordination issue that left 23 passengers on a shuttle bus during boarding for a domestic flight from Bangkok to Hat Yai. The incident occurred on Jan. 17 on a flight scheduled to depart Don Mueang International Airport.
Bangkok ranks first as the world’s favourite city for digital nomads, with Chiang Mai close behind. It’s easy to see why. Thailand has a magnetic charm that pulls people in. You come for a short stay, rent a scooter, find a café with fast Wi-Fi, and before you know it, you are talking about “base cities” and lease renewals.
I like to think I’m a pretty cautious and attentive person. So, when I first came to Thailand, I did some homework to avoid any social faux pas. Despite my efforts, there were still some things I didn’t catch until after I arrived.
New plug-and-play solar panels are making home solar more accessible for both homeowners and renters. A “PBS NewsHour” segment showcased how plug-and-play solar panels work and how they have made solar power affordable for many people who previously thought that home solar was unattainable.
The Rice Department is advancing carbon farming as a nationwide strategy to make rice production more sustainable and to support the country’s long-term carbon neutrality goals.
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing today, seeking closer trade ties while balancing sensitive issues of national security and human rights. This is the first visit to China by a UK prime minister since 2018 and follows a slew of Western leaders seeking support from Beijing recently, pivoting from an increasingly unpredictable United States. 
Global gold prices jumped to a fresh all-time high, breaking above $5,400 an ounce, after former US President Donald Trump warned Iran to reach a nuclear deal and the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, as expected. 
Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia have each carved out their own space in the long-term expat landscape. Thailand offers dependable healthcare and a well-established expat infrastructure. Vietnam stands out for rock-bottom costs and relentless urban energy. Malaysia brings modern living standards, cultural diversity, and an English-speaking environment that makes settling in remarkably smooth.
Following recent media coverage highlighting the Thai authorities’ increasing scrutiny of nominee company structures, MBMG Group and Hua Hin Accounting & Law have released further insights from their recent seminar, which examined the broader tax, business, and compliance framework now facing expatriates and foreign business owners in Thailand.
Red levels of PM2.5 cover about one-third of Thailand, including PKK
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) searched the residences of three active and one former officials of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) and seized thousands of illegal crypto mining rigs, cash, laptops, phones, and bank passbooks.
Thailand has, for the first time, administered contraceptive vaccines to female wild elephants, as part of an initiative to control the elephant population safely and promote sustainable coexistence between humans and elephants.
Thailand’s economy is expected to grow 2.0% this year, the Finance Ministry reported yesterday, maintaining its previous forecast. Exports, a key driver of Thai growth, are also expected to rise 1.0% this year, compared with an earlier forecast of a 1.5% decline, Vinit Visessuvanapoom, head of the Finance Ministry’s Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), told a press conference.
Singapore Airlines plans a new service linking the island state with Chiang Mai, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
Suvarnabhumi Airport is Bangkok’s major international gateway. Here’s how to reach the city center upon arrival or travel to the airport for departure.
It’s too early to be sure, but it seems likely that we have just seen “Peak Trump”. Last week, US President Donald Trump arrived at the Davos conference radiating power and menace. Fresh from his attack on Venezuela, he was going to invade and annex Greenland. If his European allies in the NATO alliance tried to protect it, he would crush them with tariffs. And he would launch a rival to the United Nations that would make him World President for Life. 
The Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026 will be held Feb. 4-7 at Rajabhakti Park in Hua Hin, with the Royal Thai Army working alongside tourism and provincial authorities to showcase Muay Thai as a key part of Thailand’s cultural heritage.
Seriously harmful levels of ultrafine dust, three times the safe limit, were reported in Greater Bangkok this morning, while most of Thailand was blanketed with unsafe smog.
Thai gold shops face closures as prices top 70,000 baht
Thailand’s hotel sector is shifting toward a more mature phase, which will see more of the country’s hotel assets repositioned to accommodate changing market dynamics.
Can Southeast Asia keep the lights on for solar projects as costs rise?
Phuket has long been synonymous with tropical splendor thanks to its world-famous beaches, emerald rainforests, and waters teeming with life. This profound natural beauty is the very soul of its allure. Yet, for years, the pressures of overtourism, relentless development, and pervasive pollution have threatened to unravel the delicate ecological balance that sustains this paradise.
French lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban social media use by under-15s, a move championed by President Emmanuel Macron as a way to protect children from excessive screen time. 
PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) has announced it will stop selling Gasohol E85, effective Feb. 1, citing a continued decline in consumer demand. The decision has drawn wide attention because Gasohol E85 is used by a significant number of motorists.
Thai global sensation Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban — already an Amazing Thailand Ambassador for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), promoting Thai tourism worldwide — has further cemented her status as a global icon.
Thai netizens condemned a foreign man for ignoring national park regulations and flying a drone near a herd of elephants in Khao Yai National Park, causing the animals to panic and putting both tourists and wildlife at risk.
Thailand’s chicken industry braces for slower growth in 2026
Manat Chavanaprayoon, director-general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), has outlined Thailand’s aviation outlook for 2025, saying the global industry continued to face heavy external pressures, from international conflicts and geopolitical tensions to airspace restrictions linked to disputes in several regions, including Pakistan–India, Israel–Iran, and Russia–Ukraine. He also cited an ongoing global shortage of aircraft.
Travelers are advised to be alert to visa application scams, such as false appointment letters or requests for additional payment for fast-track visa guarantees, as outbound travel grows.
The Michelin Guide, first published in 1900 by the French tire company Michelin, was originally created to help motorists find quality eateries — while subtly encouraging them to drive more and, in turn, buy more tires.
The giant reptiles reclaiming the world’s most visited city
Thailand still has an undersupply of hotel rooms, according to international chain IHG Hotels & Resorts, which aims to add nearly 40 hotels here in 3-5 years. Elie Maalouf, chief executive at IHG, said Thailand is still “under-penetrated” in terms of hotel rooms per person, as many hotels have very high occupancy rates for much of the time.
The Department of Mineral Fuels (DMF) has finished drafting amendments to the Petroleum Act to ensure the continuity of petroleum production when licenses expire, avoiding delays that can result in expensive electricity bills.
A wave of blunt, often frustrated comments from readers has reignited a long-running question: is Pattaya intentionally — or unintentionally — pushing away its traditional Western visitor base?
The friendliest Thai cities for foreigners
The influencer racing to save Thailand’s most endangered sea mammal
The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting 2026 in Davos has begun in a notably heated atmosphere, after Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney used a major address to declare that the so-called “rules-based order” is effectively “dead” in practice and urged the world’s middle powers to unite against growing coercion by larger states. 
If the US and the European Union (EU) implement tariff barriers against each other, it could cause severe disruptions to global trade, as both are crucial players in the global supply chain and major consumer markets, say economic analysts. Tensions are escalating after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs ranging up to 25% on eight European allies that oppose his demands for control of Greenland. 
The world is entering an era of “global water bankruptcy”, with rivers, lakes, and aquifers depleting faster than nature can replenish them, a United Nations research institute said yesterday. It argues that decades of overuse, pollution, environmental destruction, and climate pressure had pushed many water systems so beyond the point of recovery that a new classification was required.