Category Archives: bangkok

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Saturday’s news-June 15

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Prime Minister visits Hua Hin Railway Station to inspect SRT Royal Blossom train

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited the Hua Hin Railway Station on Friday, accompanied by Deputy Minister of Transport Surapong Piyachote and deputy governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) Avirut Thongnet.

The delegation was welcomed by Prachuap Khiri Khan Gov. Somkid Chantanamrue and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Director Archawan Kongkanant, along with other government officials. Continued …

Thailand’s Success Against Avian Flu: Lessons for the World

Twenty years ago, Thailand faced a devastating avian flu outbreak, losing over 62 million birds, primarily chickens. The virus, identified as H5N1, spread rapidly among poultry and led to significant human fatalities. Now, with countries like the U.S. facing similar outbreaks, there’s much to learn from Thailand’s effective response.

In late 2003, Thailand’s poultry industry, a global leader producing a billion chickens annually, was hit hard by the virus. By January 2004, authorities confirmed the outbreak, suspected to have jumped from wild waterfowl to chickens. The response was swift and rigorous: massive culling of infected and nearby flocks, compensated by the government, helped contain the spread. Continued …

Probe into Salary Deductions for Thai Military Conscripts Unveiled

An investigation has been initiated by Thailand’s Second Army Region following a leaked document that allegedly shows deductions from new conscripts’ salaries, sparking controversy online.

The document purportedly details the expense account of new conscripts from a specific military unit. According to the page, various deductions — including a 500-baht fee for septic tank pumping — result in conscripts receiving less than 5,000 Baht after all deductions. Continued …

Over Half of Chatuchak Market Pet Shops Unlicensed

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has raided and inspected animal shops at Chatuchak Market after the worst fire incident involving pets occurred on Tuesday.

Forty-four shops were found to be operating without licenses, and 25 of them were urged to expedite their applications. Additional fire extinguishers are ready to be ordered and installed. Continued …

Monstrous monitor lizards crawl into Bangkok sewage pipe

Two monstrous monitor lizards were recently seen crawling into a sewage pipe in Bangkok, stirring dread and fear but also creating a sense of awe at the fascinating creepy crawlies that lie beneath Thailand’s sprawling capital.

In a video that first appeared on TikTok, two Asian water monitor lizards – each measuring over 1.5 meter in length – could be seen trying to claw their way into a drainage tunnel that strides a waterway. Continued …

Many Thai industries in battle for survival

Are Thai industries under threat of a massive collapse, given rapid changes in technology, fierce competition from China and the planned hike in the daily minimum wage?

Two Japanese carmakers, Subaru and Suzuki, have announced that they will shut down their manufacturing sites in Thailand at the end of this year and next year, respectively, amid shrinking demand for their vehicles. Continued …

‘More factory closures likely if Thai govt does not act against dumping’

Thailand’s manufacturing sector is facing a serious crisis, with a total of 488 factories closing down in the first five months of this year, according to data with the Department of Industrial Works and KKP Research.

The average closures at over 97 a month compare unfavorably with the average of 57 factories that shut down each month in 2021. The department data showed that from January 2022 to March 2023, a total of 1,704 factories ceased operations in the aftermath of Covid, an average of 113 closures a month. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Digital Wallet Scheme Expands to Include Smartphones

In a significant shift, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat announced that beneficiaries of the government’s 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme can now use the funds to purchase smartphones. This decision comes amid growing recognition of smartphones as essential tools in daily life.

Initially, smartphones were excluded from the list of permissible purchases under the scheme. However, the Digital Wallet Board has revised this stance, considering the ubiquitous role smartphones play in communication, work, and access to information. Continued … 

Digital divide a major challenge facing Thailand amid aging society

Senior citizens are likely to be at risk of getting left behind due to lack of digital literacy, as Thailand is among Asia-Pacific countries undergoing a major digital transformation.

Thailand’s digital economy is expected to reach US$53 billion in 2025 with a 15% compounded annual growth rate and is projected to double to approximately $100 billion to $165 billion in 2030, according to the e-Conomy SEA Report 2022. Continued …

TAT bullish on casino investment

Thailand stands a good chance of attracting investments in entertainment complexes, as MGM China Holdings is looking for new overseas investments, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

After meeting Pansy Ho, chairperson and executive director of MGM China Holdings, on Thursday, TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said MGM China wants to promote Macau tourism to the Thai market, while also searching for new investment options in Thailand’s proposed entertainment complex. Continued …

Relaxed rules to draw more investors

The government will ease the necessary procedures and provide more incentives to attract foreign investors in the film, food and pharmaceutical industries.

Tongthong Chandransu, chairperson of the Regulatory Reform Committee for Ease of Doing Business, said on Friday that progress has been made in amending the laws and regulations that restrict the operations of various businesses. Continued …

Thailand expects $22 billion in investment

Thailand expects at least 800 billion baht (US$21.78 billion) worth of investment applications this year, the government said on Friday.

In the first quarter of 2024, the value of total investment applications rose 31% year-on-year to 228 billion baht, the Board of Investment (BOI) reported in May. More than half of the applications came from foreign investors, the board added. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Private sector hopeful that tourism will continue to grow

The Airlines Association of Thailand expects tourism-related industries to grow in the second half of this year, provided no negative factors crop up that would significantly affect people’s travel plans, and the government continues to roll out supporting measures.

Association President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth said on Thursday that based on the number of foreign arrivals of 14.76 million in the first five months of 2024, an increase of 38% year on year, the tourism sector should meet the government’s target of generating 3.5 trillion baht in revenue. Continued …

Phuket Workshops Aim to Reduce Motorcycle Fatalities

Phuket authorities launched a series of workshops yesterday to tackle the rising number of fatalities and injuries from road accidents, especially involving motorcycles. The event, held at a Ratsada hotel, saw a significant turnout of district and community leaders.

Phuket Vice Gov. Sattha Thongkam spearheaded the initiative, under the District Drive Project, calling for enhanced motorcycle riding safety across the province. Continued …

Is it time for airlines to restrict alcohol during long-haul flights?

Flying can be stressful, and many people enjoy a drink to relax. However, a new study reveals that combining alcohol with the cabin pressure experienced at cruising altitude can significantly impact heart health, even if you’re young and healthy. This discovery raises a critical question: should airlines restrict alcohol on long-haul flights?

Researchers from the Institute of Aerospace Medicine in Germany, aimed to explore how alcohol consumption and cabin pressure at high altitudes interact to affect sleeping passengers’ heart health. They wanted to determine if the combination of these two factors might have a compounded effect on the heart, potentially posing a risk even to those without pre-existing conditions. Continued …

A Day in the Life of Thai Cuisine

In the predictable world of American breakfast TV, it’s a chorus of cereals, bacons, pancakes and eggs on toast. But the renowned Korean-American chef David Chang, disruptor extraordinaire and host of “The Next Thing You Eat,” has a different recipe in mind.

“I want diversity,” he declares, envisioning a future where his son won’t be a breakfast oddball for craving noodle soup at dawn. Chang’s culinary rebellion, showcased in episode 4’s “Breakfast: An Illusion of Choice,” challenges breakfast orthodoxy and beckons a deliciously diverse morning spread, prompting the world to question why we limit our first meal of the day to just a few items. Continued … 

Thailand’s Top Camping Destinations

Camping in Thailand offers families a refreshing way to bond, explore flora and fauna and experience local ways of life – a tranquil alternative to the country’s electric urban centers. From north to south and west to east, the lush tropical rain forests, idyllic rivers and majestic mountains teeming with wildlife promise fun-filled activities and unforgettable memories waiting to be discovered.

Surround yourself with nature in your choice of accommodation – from transparent dome tents and camper vans to tree-top houses and safari-style glamping suites. Engage in outdoor and water activities, or simply relax at the campground amid panoramic views and whispers of the wild. Continued …

Four Hot Seaside Destinations to Visit in Thailand

The crown jewels of Thailand’s tourism hot spots are all (with a few exceptions) in the Andaman Sea or the Gulf of Thailand. Whether it be Phuket, Koh Samui or Pattaya, these destinations are slowly becoming too popular for those who prefer an element of tranquility with their sun tans.

Luckily, there are a number of alternatives that offer their own versions of uniqueness, charm and authenticity. It’s about time we shared hot spots that were treated as secrets among locals. Continued …

Vietnam plans to raise booze consumption tax from 65% to 100% by 2030

Vietnam’s Finance Ministry has proposed to hike a special consumption tax on alcoholic drinks to 100% by 2030, the ministry said, a move that may further hurt the country’s beverage industry. Continued …

US Navy faces intense combat against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen

The U.S. Navy prepared for decades to potentially fight the Soviet Union, then later Russia and China, on the world’s waterways. But instead of a global power, the Navy finds itself locked in combat with a shadowy, Iran-backed rebel group based in Yemen. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news

 

 

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, exports, healthcare, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-June 10

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Feedback/Hua Hin copper theft/Cha Am beach erosion/Severe monsoon warning/Children’s Syrups Recalled/5 Top Real Estate Agents/Bangkok-Vientiane Railway to open/Rare twin elephants born/Confidence in Government Plummets/Economy: Euro 2024 on Thai TVs/Economy expected to improve/SMEs rely on informal economy/Cools jets on aviation hub/Land bridge threatens island/Bids Next Year for Land Bridge project/Advantage for Thai cosmetics-makers/32nd in trade modernization/Chiang Mai could be digital hub/Suzuki Motor exodus/Tourism: To drop Bt300 tourism fee/New Automated Passport Control/Phuket Lifeguards Save Toddler/Thailand Experience: Head to the Hills/A guide to Koh Lanta/Bangkok’s best-kept foodie secret/6 of the best Thailand holiday destinations/International news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Re: Chinese tourist missing in Thailand, 25 million baht ransom!

Reader: “She’s not missing, she’s been KIDNAPPED! Why can’t they just say it like it is instead of always dumbing things down?”

Expat News: “We would have changed it to kidnapped – except it’s not clear she was. This could be a swindle. So until she is confirmed as ‘kidnapped’, it would be incorrect to say so.”

Today: Chinese woman safely located following a 25-million-baht scam in Bangkok Continued …

Suspect arrested in Hua Hin copper theft case

Hua Hin police have arrested a suspect in connection with a series of thefts targeting air conditioner compressors in villas across the Hin Lek Fai and Nong Kae subdistricts.

Between June 2 and June 4, several residents filed complaints at the Hua Hin Police Station, reporting that copper pipes connected to air compressors had been stolen from their properties. The thief, who targeted homes owned by foreigners or out-of-town residents, left behind plastic covers while taking the compressors. The thefts occurred in unoccupied or for-sale houses, making them easier targets. Continued …

1.4-billion baht to combat Cha Am beach erosion

Deputy Minister of Transport Monporn Charoensri recently visited Cha Am Beach to inspect a 1.4-billion-baht beach- sand-replenishment project aimed at reducing erosion, restoring the beach, and boosting the local tourism economy.

The project, scheduled to begin later this year, is set to cover a total distance of 6.05 kilometers along the beach. Continued …

Severe monsoon warning issued for 40 Thai provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning about severe monsoon conditions affecting 40 provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok. Heavy rainfall is expected in 60% of the areas, with potential flash floods and sudden water surges.

The monsoon trough will traverse Thailand’s upper northern and upper northeastern regions. Additionally, the southwest monsoon covering the upper Andaman Sea and upper Thailand is intensifying. Continued …

15 Children’s Syrups Recalled Amid Safety Concerns

The Thai Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) has urgently recalled 15 types of children’s syrup from store shelves. Tests revealed these products contain ethylene glycol levels exceeding the permitted safety limits. This discovery has prompted immediate action to protect public health.

TFDA Secretary-General Dr. Narong Aphikulvanich shared that the Medical Sciences Department recently tested samples from various syrups, unearthing unsafe ethylene glycol concentrations. Ethylene glycol, an organic compound typically used in antifreeze and polyester manufacturing, is tasteless, odorless, and dangerously toxic in high amounts. Continued …

5 Top Real Estate Agents in Thailand

Navigating the complex world of Thai realtors can be a challenge, particularly as a foreign investor. With so many options and potential risks, having a trusted real estate company by your side is crucial – especially if you’re new to the market and aren’t living in Thailand already!

In this article, we’ll introduce you to five of the top real estate agencies in Thailand that can help make your property search easier. The list is no particular order. While each of their specialties vary, all of the realtors listed below claim high standards in general. Continued …

Bangkok-Vientiane Railway to open later this month

Thailand and Laos are set to inaugurate a groundbreaking new railway network connecting Bangkok and Vientiane. This comes as a result of extensive planning and collaboration between the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and Lao National Railways, with a trial run scheduled for later this month, according to official announcements.

The railway initiative aims to dramatically improve connectivity for travelers and facilitate the seamless movement of goods between the two nations, thereby positioning Thailand as a critical logistics hub in Southeast Asia. Continued …

Rare twin elephants born in Ayutthaya

A 36-year-old elephant named Chamchuree has given birth to a pair of male and female calves, a rare event for the animal, according to the Phra Kochaban Foundation.

The twins were born in the Royal Elephant Kraal Village in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district on Friday night, foundation President Laithongrian Meephan said on Saturday. Continued …

Confidence in Government Plummets, Public Dissatisfaction Peaks

A recent survey shows widespread discontent with government performance over the past nine months. The National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) conducted a phone survey on June 4-5, engaging 1,310 individuals from various backgrounds, all aged 18 or older.

The results paint a stark picture. A substantial 31.7% of respondents expressed total dissatisfaction. Their primary gripe? The government’s failure to deliver on election promises. Another 34.4% echoed similar sentiments, citing a lack of tangible improvements and delays in several key projects. Continued …

Euro 2024 on Thai TVs to boost country’s economy and foreign tourism efforts

Thailand’s private sector and the government came together on Thursday to promise the public free-to-air coverage of the European Football Championships tournament in Germany, concluding on July 14.

The issue was seen as critically important, given the rising popularity of football in Thailand and its links to the foreign tourism trade. Thousands of bars and hostelries throughout Thailand are set to gain. Continued …

Thai economy expected to improve from July-Dec but concerns remain

The business sector is closely monitoring factors that could impact the economy and business activities for the remainder of 2024. These include the Constitutional Court’s upcoming ruling on Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s appointment of Phichit Chuenban as minister of the Prime Minister’s Office despite his being disqualified from holding a ministerial post.

Another is the case of the Move Forward Party, accused of attempting to overthrow the constitutional monarchy. Business leaders are also closely watching the U.S. presidential election, which will take place in November. Continued …

‘Limited funding sources forcing Thai SMEs to rely on informal economy’

Most small and midsize enterprises (SMEs) rely on the informal economy, as they cannot access proper sources of funding, according to the Federation Thai SME, which called for more incentives and measures to help this group.

Speaking at a seminar titled “Credit Guarantee Mechanism, Helper for SMEs in Accessing Funding” held by the Bank of Thailand last week, the federation’s president, Saengchai Teerakulwanit, said that the Thai grassroots economy continues to slow down, with some yet to recover post-pandemic. Continued …

Trade group cools jets on aviation hub

The International Air Transport Assn. (IATA) says Thailand may be constrained in its pursuit of becoming the region’s leading aviation hub by 2030 because of global supply chain disruptions, adding that Thailand needs to remove unnecessary regulations and move towards digitalization for aviation efficiency.

“I think Thailand can achieve its ambition, but it will probably take longer than 2030,” Willie Walsh, IATA director-general, said at the group’s annual general meeting in Dubai. Continued …

Land Bridge threatens island gem

Located 17 kilometers off the Andaman Sea coast, Koh Phayam, covering a 35km² area, is the second largest island in Ranong province.

Blessed with unspoiled forests and pristine beaches, the island attracts visitors seeking peaceful recreation amid pristine nature and the charming lifestyle of islanders who still make a living by catching fish. Continued …

Bids Next Year for Thailand’s Pacific-to-Indian Ocean Land Bridge project

Thailand’s anticipated land bridge project, aiming to connect the Pacific and Indian oceans, is set to become reality, with bidding anticipated by late next year, the Transport Ministry confirmed.

The colossal 1-trillion-baht project will construct deep-sea ports in Chumphon on the Gulf of Thailand and Ranong on the Andaman coast, linked by a state-of-the-art transport route. This ambitious infrastructure aims to alleviate congestion in the Malacca Straits, the current primary trade artery for cargo. Continued …

Emphasis on natural ingredients ‘advantage for Thai cosmetics-makers’

The Thai beauty market will grow at 9% to 9.3%, but Thai entrepreneurs must use more research and innovation to offer scientific evidence about their products, the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) said.

Cosmetics exports are a significant contributor to the Thai economy, generating an average annual revenue of 70-80 billion baht, making the cosmetics industry one of the top five sectors contributing to Thailand’s GDP. Continued …

Kingdom ranks 32nd in trade modernization index

Thailand now ranks 32nd out of 65 countries on the Global Trade Modernization Index (GTMI) 2024.

Montri Mahaplerkpong, chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), on Sunday told the media that growth in international trade in the first quarter was less than expected due to regional instability, particularly the unrest in Myanmar. Continued … 

PM: Chiang Mai could be digital hub

Chiang Mai has the potential to become a digital startup hub in Southeast Asia, and the government will support the province to achieve that goal, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said during a visit to the northern province on Saturday.

Srettha described Chiang Mai city as an established digital nomad paradise and one of the world’s best creative cities. Continued …

PM not worried by Suzuki Motor exodus

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has expressed confidence that other auto manufacturers will not withdraw their production bases from Thailand, following the decision of Suzuki Motor Corp. to do so.

Suzuki said on Friday that it would close its 12-year-old plant in Rayong at the end of 2025, affecting 800 workers, as it wanted to focus on producing electric vehicles elsewhere. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Thailand to drop Bt300 tourism fee policy

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Saturday that his government would scrap the proposal by the previous administration to charge a 300 baht tourism fee from foreign tourists entering Thailand by air.

Srettha said his government was not considering implementation of the policy proposed in February last year, which had encountered opposition from the private sector. Continued …

New Automated Passport Control Enhances Suvarnabhumi Airport Experience

The new automatic channel for passport control at Suvarnabhumi Airport was personally tested by Wisanu Prasarttong-Osoth, chairman of Airports of Thailand (AOT), before its official launch yesterday. This state-of-the-art system aims to ease congestion at immigration checkpoints.

The new system is part of AOT’s initiative to assist immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport by addressing issues related to the old system, which had been operational for over 15 years and only served Thai nationals. Continued …

Phuket Lifeguards Save Toddler, American Father Swept Away

An American man took his Thai wife and their 3-and-a-half-year-old child to go swimming in the sea in Phuket province on Sunday afternoon, which should have been a happy holiday. However, they encountered a tragedy when a wave swept him away.

Officers from Chalong Police Station in Phuket received a report of a drowning incident at Nai Han Beach, Rawai subdistrict. They went to investigate and notified the diving team from the Phuket Kusoldham Foundation and Rawai Municipality officials to inspect and conduct a search. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

The Next Time You’re in Thailand, Head to the Hills

So you’ve snorkeled in the cerulean waters, partied away the full moon nights on the remote islands and kayaked around the towering limestone rocks that reach out to the skies as they emerge from the sea. What next in Thailand?

My answer: Head away from the beaches to the hills of northern Thailand, to soak up local food and culture, and some fresh mountain air. Continued …

A guide to Koh Lanta, a sparkling alternative to Krabi’s crowded beaches

A journey to Koh Lanta could seem lengthy, with many travelers opting for a flight, taxi, car ferry or possibly a speed boat in season to get to the idyllic cluster of islands in the Andaman Sea. But this is precisely what makes it charming and a complete antithesis to the beaches of Phuket and Krabi that are packed to the rafters year-round.

An archipelago of 50-plus islands south of Krabi, Koh Lanta lets you experience the Thailand that was many decades ago — unrushed and unspoiled — minus the loud party spots, packed streets and blaring tuk-tuks. The shores are secluded, the seafood fresh and the sunsets dramatic. Here’s a guide on how to kick back on Koh Lanta. Continued …

Hotel buffets are Bangkok’s best-kept foodie secret

Bangkok is famed for its street food but, as I learned while living in the Thai capital, its best-kept foodie secret is the hotel buffet.

Many of the city’s four- and five-star hotels offer breakfast, lunch or dinner buffets that are considerably cheaper than their equivalents in Hong Kong. Continued …

6 of the best Thailand holiday destinations for luxury retreats and budget breaks

With culture-stacked cities, world-famous beaches and jungle interiors, Thailand’s unique landscape begs to be explored. Home to some of the best yoga retreats, beach bars and Buddhist temples in the continent, it’s no wonder that history-rich Thai towns have become such tourist hot spots.

Whether passing through on a budget world tour or relaxing on a family holiday, there’s something for everyone on the traditional shores of Thailand. Take a cooking class to get familiar with the local cuisine, go on a boat trip to scuba dive in lively reefs or take a tuk-tuk to share in the street food of the bustling night markets with good-natured locals. Continued …

Far-Right Advances In EU Election, France Calls Snap National Vote

Gains by the far-right in voting for the European Parliament on Sunday prompted a bruised French President Emmanuel Macron to call a snap national election and added uncertainty to Europe’s future political direction. Continued … 

Philippines rejects ‘absurd’ Beijing demand over South China Sea

The Philippines said it will continue to maintain and supply its South China Sea outposts without seeking permission from any other nation, dismissing Beijing’s demand to do so as “absurd, nonsense and unacceptable”. Continued …

Modi, reliant on coalition partners, sworn in for rare third term as PM

Narendra Modi was sworn in Sunday for a rare third consecutive term as India’s prime minister, relying on his coalition partners after his party failed to win a parliamentary majority in a surprise outcome. Continued …

Gaza Health Ministry: 274 Palestinians killed in Israeli raid rescuing 4 hostages

At least 274 Palestinians, including dozens of children, were killed, and hundreds more were wounded, in the Israeli raid that rescued four hostages held by Hamas, Gaza’s Health Ministry said Sunday. Continued …

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-June 8

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Community radio stations to cease/Koh Samui land violations/Decline in family income/Sugar substitute Xylitol/Flooding boosts tadpole sales/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Thai food exports/Thai car sales plunge/Suzuki to pull the plug/Steel sales slump/Crackdown dents condo purchases/Cannabis entrepreneurs defiant/Tourism: Chinese tourist missing/Thailand eyes MICE supremacy/Brisbane-Bangkok Direct Flights/Austrian Airlines flights to Bangkok/Thailand Experience: Global Wellness Day/Where to Eat in Phuket/How to stay healthy in Thailand/International news/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

3,900 Thai community radio stations to cease under new digital scheme

Approximately 3,900 community radio stations will be forced to cease broadcasting after this year due to the transition from analogue to a licensing regime and a digital audio broadcasting (DAB) scheme.

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has been working on the digital radio regulatory framework, aiming to implement it by September. Continued …

ISOC to help probe Koh Samui land violations

The Internal Security Operation Command (ISOC) Region 4 has joined hands with local authorities to investigate land encroachment on Koh Samui in Surat Thani, focusing on 600 villas built on the island’s hilltops.

Maj. Gen. Anusorn Ourai, deputy commander of the Fourth Army Region, presided over a meeting on Thursday to discuss what is being called the “Samui Model” operation. Continued …

Decline in family income threatens Thai children’s education

The average monthly income of Thailand’s very poor families has plummeted, placing children’s education in jeopardy.

According to the Equitable Education Fund (EEF), these families’ earnings dropped to a mere 1,039 baht per month in 2023, down from 1,077 baht in 2020. This translates to a daily income of just 34 baht — far below the World Bank’s poverty line of 80 baht per day. Continued …

Sugar substitute Xylitol linked to increased heart attack and stroke risk

A new study by researchers at the Cleveland Clinic has revealed a significant association between the widely used sugar substitute xylitol and an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.

This surprising finding, detailed in the European Heart Journal, raises important questions about the safety of sugar alcohols commonly found in a variety of chewing gums, food and oral care products. Continued …

Flooding in Nakhon Ratchasima boosts income with tadpole sales

Heavy rainfall in Nakhon Ratchasima has led to flooding in several areas, prompting locals to catch tadpoles in rice fields. These tadpoles are used in traditional dishes, reducing household expenses and generating additional income, as they sell for 300 baht per kilogram.

Recent reports indicate that various parts of Nakhon Ratchasima province have experienced rainfall, which has moistened the soil and rice fields. In Khun Thong subdistrict, Bua Yai district, this rain has resulted in the flooding of agricultural lands. The excess water has created an environment conducive to the reproduction of frogs and toads, leading to an abundance of tadpoles, locally known as Ih-wok. Continued …

  • Russian Man Arrested in Phuket for Alleged Money Laundering – Continued … 
  • Vietnamese Drug Kingpin Fugitive Captured in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Police arrest foreigner for selling narcotic-laced e-cigarettes – Continued … 

Thai food exports see 6.3% growth YOY in first four months

Thailand exported food products valued at 420 billion baht from January to April, a 6.3% increase year on year (YoY), the Department of Trade Negotiations said on Friday.

Nearly 70% of exports worth 270 billion baht came from 18 countries and economic zones that have signed free trade agreements (FTAs) with Thailand. The amount is up 1.3% (YoY). Continued …

Thai car sales plunge; luxury market hit amid economic woes

Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) reports a significant decrease in domestic car sales, affecting even the typically robust premium car sector. The struggling Thai economy and banks’ stricter auto lending policies due to high household debt, are impacting car manufacturers across all sectors. This includes the luxury market, which generally leverages higher purchasing power.

“The automotive industry has been hard hit by this year’s economic slowdown, making it challenging for manufacturers to boost sales. This includes both general passenger and luxury cars,” says Martin Schwenk, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand). Continued …

Suzuki to pull the plug on its manufacturing in Thailand in 2025

Suzuki Motor Corp. will cease production at its factory in Thailand by the end of 2025, following a review of its global production structure, the Japanese automobile manufacturer said on Friday.

The global push for carbon neutrality and the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EV) led to Suzuki reassessing its global production efficiency, the company said. Consequently, Suzuki has decided to cease operations at the Suzuki Motor (Thailand) Co. (SMT) factory by the end of 2025, the company said. Continued …

Thailand’s steel sales slump 11%-12% due to weak car market

Thailand’s sluggish car sales prompted an 11% to 12% decline in premium-grade steel sales during the first four months of 2024, raising concerns about reduced steel consumption this year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

FTI Iron and Steel Industry Club Vice Chairman Nava Chantanasurakon stated that local steel manufacturers are bracing for a tough period, with expectations of a drop in steel demand across all industrial sectors. Continued …

Myanmar crackdown dents condo purchases

Myanmar’s crackdown on Thai condo purchases by its citizens could cause a significant decline in condo transfers during the second and third quarters, according to the Thai Condominium Assn.

Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the association, said Thai condo units worth more than 1 billion baht were blocked from transfers to buyers from Myanmar in April and May following the regime’s crackdown. Continued …

Thailand’s cannabis entrepreneurs defiant as relisting looms

Two years after Thailand decriminalized cannabis in a giddy plume of publicity, businesses and free weed advocates say their dreams are about to go up in smoke, with the government poised to reclassify the plant as a narcotic by year-end.

Worse still, Thailand’s cannabis community fears the motivation is less based on legitimate concerns for public health, than appeasing big players eyeing domination of a sector potentially worth hundreds of millions a year once the law is changed. Continued …

Chinese tourist missing in Thailand, 25 million baht ransom

A Chinese tourist has gone missing while vacationing in Thailand, with her father receiving a ransom demand of 25 million baht for her release.

Police at Phra Khanong Police Station were alerted by a Thai-Chinese interpreter named Moo, who works with the national cycling team coach, about the missing Chinese woman, 27-year-old Xinlei Lu. Continued …

Thailand eyes MICE supremacy in Southeast Asia

Thailand is pulling out all the stops to become the epicenter of MICE tourism in Southeast Asia, with Vietnam emerging as a potential powerhouse partner.

This ambitious vision, spearheaded by Puripan Bunnag, senior vice president of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), aims to harness the post-pandemic resurgence in the MICE sector to bolster Thailand’s economy. Continued …

Jetstar Resumes Brisbane-Bangkok Direct Flights After Four-Year Hiatus

Jetstar is set to resume direct flights between Brisbane and Bangkok this December, marking the first non-stop service on this route since Thai Airways suspended operations in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

This development is a significant milestone for Queensland Airport, which, backed by the Queensland government, aims to restore international connections that were disrupted during the pandemic. Continued …

Austrian Airlines to operate more flights to Bangkok

Austrian Airlines, boasting a modern fleet of Airbus A320s, Boeing 767s, and Boeing 777s, has increased its weekly flights from Vienna to Bangkok to 13 flights.

Brendan Shashoua, Lufthansa Group senior director sales, Southeast Asia and the Pacific made the announcement. “Since 1988, Austrian Airlines has connected Vienna with the vibrant Thai capital of Bangkok. With Thailand being a highly attractive destination for Europeans, we are responding to strong demand by increasing our weekly frequencies from Vienna from 7 to 13 flights.” Continued …

How is Thailand celebrating Global Wellness Day this weekend?

Global Wellness Day 2024 is today, and hotels and resorts across Thailand are celebrating the occasion. Here’s how you can get in on the action.

A quick weekend detox, yoga on the beach, or a walk in nature? Thailand celebrates Global Wellness Day in beautiful form this June, from the banks of the Chao Phraya river to the beaches of Koh Samui. Read on for a set of carefully curated itineraries to honor well-being on this day and every day. Continued …

Where and What to Eat in Phuket

Thailand’s biggest island, Phuket is often equated with beach resorts. But its capital, Phuket Town, ignored by most tourists who stampede to the beaches (and most guidebooks), is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, where distinctive food melds Thai, Chinese, and Muslim influences.

Thailand’s only Michelin-starred restaurant outside of Bangkok is on Phuket, a film location for The White Lotus Season 3, which airs in 2025, along with Bangkok and Koh Samui. An hour’s flight from Penang, Malaysia, or 1 1/2 hours from Bangkok, Phuket has a Buddhist temple with 36 golden Buddha statues, Wat Chalong, and a white alabaster hilltop Buddha statue almost 150 feet high. Continued … 

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

How to stay healthy in Thailand

As one traverses the vivacious avenues of Bangkok, the plethora of street cuisine and entertainment prospects could potentially be overpowering. However, this dynamic metropolis presents aspects far more profound than what is immediately perceivable.

In addition to the enticing fragrances and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok harbors a broad spectrum of opportunities for those pursuing a healthier lifestyle. The countless fitness centers dispersed across the city, encompassing a vast array of exercises from weight training to aerobics, along with healthful snacking alternatives, render Bangkok a sanctuary for fitness aficionados. Continued …

Strong US jobs growth dents hopes for rate cut

Global stocks retreated from all-time highs on Friday and U.S. government debt yields jumped after unexpectedly strong U.S. jobs data doused hopes the Federal Reserve would soon follow the euro zone and Canada in cutting interest rates. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news

 

 

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
baht, bangkok, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, real estate, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news-June 7

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Today’s news: Updates for foreigners to own land/Cardiac risks of energy drinks/Malaysia Asia’s Most Loved Country/Thailand Secures UEFA Euro broadcast/Removing Srettha from power?/A lottery for retirement?/Children in Thailand in severe child food poverty/Jurassic World 4/Thailand’s Cannabis Confusion/Economy: DSI Raids Foreign Nominee Companies/Headline inflation up 1.54%/700 Business Closures predicted/Wary on baht outlook/Ease housing loan measures/Agoda CEO sees potential for Thailand/Investments in Thai agro-business/The high purchasing power of singles/Tourism: Foreign tourist arrivals jump 38%/Thailand leads in Mekong region tourism/Thailand Experience: Global food photo contest/6 offbeat places in Thailand/Among world’s 50 best restaurants/International news/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Land Department updates criteria for foreigners to own land

Thailand’s Land Department has updated its criteria for allowing foreigners to own land in the country. The latest criteria were announced on the department’s website.

Inheritance: Foreigners who are the legal heirs of foreigners allowed to hold land, can inherit the land holding. The inheritance must comply with the land-holding law or criteria for land holdings by foreigners. Continued … 

The hidden cardiac risks of energy drinks

Energy drinks have become a staple in the diets of many individuals, particularly among younger demographics. Promoted as a quick solution for boosting energy and enhancing performance, these beverages have captured a significant market share globally.

However, beneath the flashy marketing and promises of increased alertness, there lies a potential danger that has raised concerns among health professionals and researchers alike. This article delves into the intricate relationship between energy drinks and cardiac health, focusing on recent studies that highlight the risks associated with their consumption. Continued … 

Malaysia Beats Thailand, Singapore as Asia’s Most Loved Country

Malaysia has topped the charts as the most beloved country in Asia, outshining regional rivals Singapore and Thailand, according to the latest rankings by American financial website Insider Monkey.

This accolade underscores Malaysia’s growing appeal on the international stage as a destination that encapsulates cultural diversity and unmatched hospitality. Continued … 

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Thailand Secures Live Broadcast of UEFA Euro 2024

Thai football fans are in for a treat as it was announced they will be able to watch all matches of the UEFA Euro 2024 championship live from June 14 to July 14. A consortium of private companies has successfully secured the broadcast rights, ensuring fans won’t miss a second of the action.

Speaking at Government House, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed his gratitude toward the companies involved. He highlighted that this arrangement was entirely facilitated by the private sector, with the government not having to spend any taxpayer money. Continued … 

What next if Constitutional Court removes Srettha from power?

Srettha Thavisin is the fifth prime minister to be tried by the Constitutional Court since it was established in October 1997 – two of his predecessors were found guilty and removed, while two others were spared.

The two premiers ousted by court rulings – Samak Sundaravej and Yingluck Shinawatra – were both considered proxies of ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra, regarded as the patriarch of the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Continued … 

A lottery for retirement?

With Thailand expecting its aging population to total more than 13 million this year, the Finance Ministry is considering launching a new lottery to encourage saving among elderly citizens and ensure that they will have stable finances after retirement.

Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul said on Thursday that prizes for the retirement lottery will be drawn every week, while tickets that did not win will be accumulated as savings. Buyers can only withdraw this money when they reach 60 years of age. Continued … 

1 in 10 children in Thailand live in severe child food poverty

Around one in 10 children under five years old in Thailand experience severe food poverty, which threatens their health and overall development, a new UNICEF report reveals.

The Child Food Poverty: Nutrition Deprivation in Early Childhood report is the first of its kind, analyzing the impacts and causes of dietary deprivation among the world’s youngest people in nearly 100 countries, and across income groups. It warns that millions of children under the age of five are unable to access and consume a nutritious and diverse diet to sustain optimal growth and development in early childhood and beyond. Continued … 

Jurassic World 4, with $265 million budget, begins filming in Thailand next week

Filming is set to begin next week in the southern provinces of Trang, Krabi, and Phang-nga for the latest Jurassic Park movie. Jurassic World Four has a budget of $265 million and is set for release in 2025.

In particular, there is excitement about filming part of the movie on Sunset Beach on Ko Kradan. The beach, located in a national park in Trang province, has been voted two years in a row as the most beautiful in the world. Continued … 

Thailand’s Cannabis Confusion Continues

In 2022, Thailand legalized cannabis, leading to widespread and often unregulated use of the drug. The legislation primarily intended to promote medical cannabis but also opened doors for various non-medical uses, sparking debates and causing dilemmas for the government and its citizens.

Internationally, countries distinguish cannabis use as either medical or recreational. In Thailand, the categories are medical, recreational, and an ambiguous “other” use. Continued … 

DSI Raids Three Suspected Foreign Nominee Companies in Phuket

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI), in cooperation with the Immigration Police, Tourist Police and other authorities in Phuket, raided three businesses allegedly run by foreigners. These companies are suspected of running illegal activities under the guise of legal businesses.

Thaveewat Surasit, director of the DSI’s Security Cases Division, explained that the joint operation targeted three locations for which the authorities had search warrants. The aim was to investigate individuals and intermediaries involved in registering businesses for foreigners. Continued …

Headline inflation up 1.54%, above forecast

Thailand’s headline consumer price index (CPI) rose 1.54% in May from a year earlier, after the previous month’s annual rise of 0.19%, the Commerce Ministry said today.

The May figure compared with a forecast increase of 1.19% in a Reuters poll and marked the first time since April 2023 that the headline inflation rate returned to the central bank’s target range of 1% to 3%. Continued … 

FTI Predicts 700 Business Closures if Bt400 Minimum Wage is Implemented

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) cautions that around 700 more factories may close by year’s end if the government implements a standard Bt400 minimum wage nationwide.

Over 360 factories have already shut down in 2023, leading to over 10,000 job losses. The FTI attributes these closures to economic slowdown and lack of government support. Continued … 

KKP wary on baht outlook despite uptick

The baht has posted a short-term gain, rising to a two-week high of stronger than 36.5 to the dollar on Thursday, but Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group (KKP) warns the Thai currency could depreciate because of Thailand’s structural problems.

The baht led Asian currency gains on Thursday, advancing 0.3% to its highest level since May 23, while the Singapore dollar rose 0.2%. The Thai currency was traded at 36.69 baht to the greenback on Wednesday, strengthening from a low of 36.9 baht on May 30. Continued … 

Developers beg BOT to ease loan measures as housing market slumps

The Thai Condominium Assn. is calling on the Bank of Thailand to ease its loan-to-value (LTV) ratio measure when considering housing loans, as well as consider lowering interest rates to help revive the real-estate sector.

The LTV is a risk-assessment ratio that lenders examine before approving a loan. For example, the sum approved as a loan for home buyers will depend on their income and credit history. This measure was introduced to control non-performing loans. Continued … 

Agoda CEO sees potential for Thailand to become Asian Silicon Valley

Thailand has the potential to become Asia’s Silicon Valley, Agoda CEO Omri Morgenshtern said on Thursday, while expressing his support for the government’s vision of transforming the country into a leading technology hub.

His comments came after he met Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at Agoda’s headquarters in Bangkok. Morgenshtern said after a brief meeting with the Thai PM that they had discussed actions to advance Thailand’s status as a global center for technological progress and innovation. Continued … 

Saudi food-security agency eyes investments in Thai agro-business

Saudi Arabia’s top food-security agency is interested in investing in key agricultural industries in Thailand, especially in poultry, fish and sugar processing sectors, an adviser to the Thai agriculture minister said.

Adillaw Ali-Ishoh, an adviser to Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow, was speaking to reporters on Wednesday after he met with Mohammed Almousa, group CEO adviser at the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Co. (SALIC), earlier in the day. He attended the meeting on behalf of the minister. Continued … 

More businesses catering to the high purchasing power of singles

Expenditures by single-person households, covering goods and services, average around 1.4 trillion baht per year.

According to reports from Thailand’s Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) and Euromonitor, in 2023, there were about 400 million single-person households worldwide, with this number expected to increase at an average rate of 3.3% per year. Continued … 

Foreign tourist arrivals jump 38% in first 5 months

Nearly 15 million foreign tourists visited Thailand during the first five months of this year, up 38% from the same period last year, with those from China topping the table, government spokesman Chai Wacharonke said on Thursday.

Chai said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is looking to drive the tourism industry forward as it serves to boost the economy. The push also involves improving the quality of the industry’s human resources as part of the premier’s “Ignite Thailand” development agenda. Continued … 

Thailand leads in Mekong region tourism, aiming for over 95M tourists by 2025

Thailand, a key player in GMS tourism, is rallying executives and over 15 agencies to boost cooperation. Their goal is to increase foreign tourists in the Greater Mekong Subregion to over 95 million by 2025, demonstrating a strong commitment to regional tourism.

Senior tourism officials and executives from Cambodia, Lao PDR and Myanmar were special guests of the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports at the Thailand Travel Mart Plus to be held this week in the coastal district of Khao Lak, Phang-nga Province. Continued … 

 

Natnattcha won the Tenderstem® Bring Home the Harvest category with “A Day in the Field”, a stunning shot of a young farmer carrying a rack of rice sprouts across a paddy field in Sakon Nakhon.

Thai woman wins twice in global food photo contest

A haunting image, Red Bean Paste Balls, by Chinese photographer Zhonghua Yang, has won the overall prize of Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year 2024, the world’s leading celebration of food photography and film.

Thai photographer Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn achieved great success in this year’s competition; from the thousands of entries submitted from over 65 countries across the world, she had a total of four finalist images, including two category wins. Continued … 

Red Bean Paste Balls, by Chinese photographer Zhonghua Yang, won the overall prize of Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year 2024.

6 offbeat places in Thailand you should definitely visit

One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster…but if you’ve got more than 24 hours to spare, you’ll want to explore Thailand beyond its glittering capital.

Koh Tao

In fact, for your next trip to the Southeast Asian country, switch up your itinerary — instead of the regular tourist haunts of Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Sa Mui, opt for its more rustic, offbeat alternatives, which include the ancient ruins of Sukhothai, the temple runs of Chiang Rai and the turquoise lagoons of Koh Tao, the lesser-known sister island of the overcrowded Ko Samui. Continued … 

Bangkok’s Sorn among world’s 50 best restaurants

Sorn entered Bangkok’s premium dining scene in 2018, introducing a sophisticated way to experience the seafood-centric, fiery cuisine of Thailand’s coastal southern region. Owner and executive chef Supaksorn “Ice” Jongsiri, along with head chef Yodkwan “Yod” U-Prumpruk, have become national and international gastronomic ambassadors for the region’s cuisine, garnering accolades a-plenty, as well as an ever-full reservations book.

Sorn is not only a celebration of the south, but an ode to Chef Ice’s childhood, during which he picked up the tricks of the trade from his grandmother. At the restaurant, diners get an insight into traditional cooking methods and savor nearly 90% of hyper-local southern ingredients, all from an experienced crew that are mostly from the south. Continued … 

Hanoi issues directive on tightening dog and cat meat trade

In a major move to safeguard public health and promote more ethical practices, the Hanoi Sub-department of Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Veterinary Services has issued a critically important directive as a move toward eliminating dog and cat meat trade across the city’s districts. Continued … 

Malaysia evicts 500 ‘sea nomads’

 

More than 500 people from seafaring communities along the coast of Sabah state have been evicted from their homes this week as part of a Malaysian government crackdown on undocumented migrants, local activists said. Continued … 

Today’s Thai environmental news

 

 

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s news-June 6

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Today’s news: Feedback/44.3% Highly Satisfied with Government/Major Tiger Cub Trafficking Operation/An end to macaque monkey business/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Shrinkflation unpacked/ Digital wallet changed again/More factory closures/VAT on All Imports Exceeding 1 Baht/Ways to improve revenue collection/Residential developers getting cold feet/Communities rise up against mining/Tourism: Revenue to Hit 3 Trillion Baht/11-point plan to improve tourism/DTV live and work Visa/Thailand Experience: Always wanted to live in Thailand?/Thailand wins Best Adventure Destination/Bangkok one of best food cities/International news/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Re: Best eSIM providers and plans in Thailand

“This is not an information but an advertisement and it should be posted as such.” – GS

Editor: An advisement? Are you kidding? This article was service journalism at its best. Good information about the various eSim choices, with ratings, prices and features, just like many analysis articles do.

Thai Survey Reveals 44.3% Highly Satisfied with Government Performance

A recently released survey by the Thai Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has unveiled intriguing insights into public opinion on government performance. Conducted between April 22 and May 15, the survey involved 6,970 participants aged 16 and older, who were interviewed in person.

The results show that a substantial 83.9% of respondents regularly keep up with government public information. Television is the primary source for 69.6% of these individuals, followed by Facebook at 46.2%, government websites at 23.8%, acquaintances and relatives at 16%, and the messaging app Line at 15.5%. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Thai Authorities Bust Major Tiger Cub Trafficking Operation

Yesterday, Thai authorities successfully executed a sting operation in Bueng Kan province, foiling an illegal wildlife trafficking scheme involving a valuable tiger cub. The would-be sellers sought a substantial profit of 300,000 baht, equivalent to roughly US$8,200.

The effort was spearheaded by Police Major Gen. Watcharin Poosit, commander of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NED). The operation led to the detention of a 34-year-old Vietnamese man named Ho The Luc, along with his 42-year-old Thai accomplice, Sawitree. Continued …

Lopburi puts an end to macaque monkey business in new operation

The Thai authorities in Lopburi launched a new initiative to tackle the escalating issue of a burgeoning macaque population causing disturbances to tourists and locals alike in Mueang Lopburi’s old town.

The initiative was spearheaded by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, in collaboration with Mueang Lopburi Municipality. They aim to capture, sterilize, and relocate between 800 to 1,000 long-tailed macaques to a designated zoo. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

  • Iranian Businessman Arrested for 21-Million-Baht Fraud in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Immigration Police Arrest Foreigner Overcharging Bangkok Tourists – Continued …
  • Aussie Hardened Criminal Caught in Pattaya After Fleeing Phuket – Continued …

Shrinkflation unpacked

As manufacturers across various industries seek to cope with rising production costs, many are turning to “shrinkflation” to survive.

Consumers may notice their favorite products seem to be shrinking, not based on a shortage, but as a response to a complex economic landscape. Shrinkflation affects consumers and the market. Continued …

Changed again: Handout to be ‘paid out at same time’

Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul insisted yesterday that the 50 million people eligible to each receive 10,000 baht under the government’s digital wallet scheme will receive the sum at the same time in the last quarter of the year as initially planned.

This comes as comments by government spokesman Chai Wacharonke reported by the media suggested otherwise the day before. Paopoom said he was correcting a misunderstanding about the 500-billion-baht handout that had been reported by the media. Continued …

Group predicts more factory closures

Factory shutdowns are expected to gradually increase after 1,600 to 1,700 already shuttered earlier this year because of the economic slowdown, merger plans or rising operating costs, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

“Many factories, including those owned by subcontractors, could not afford to pay workers, while others merged to reduce the number of employees,” said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the FTI. Continued …

Cabinet Approves VAT on All Imports Exceeding 1 Baht

The Ministry of Finance has proposed adding a value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods worth more than 1 baht. This proposal has been granted preliminary approval by the Cabinet.

Aimed at controlling an influx of cheap imported goods, especially from China, this method is expected to create a more balanced market for local producers and importers. Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke announced that this new rule will be in effect 15 days from its publication in the Royal Gazette, until Dec. 31. Continued …

PM discusses with tax departments ways to improve revenue collection

Executives of the Revenue, Excise and Customs departments were called to a meeting by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Wednesday after revenue collection in the first seven months reportedly missed the target by 2.4%, or 35.49 billion baht.

After the meeting, Srettha told reporters that the discussion explored ways to improve revenue collection for the rest of the year, through both existing and new campaigns. He did not, however, provide details of the campaigns designed to bring the revenue collection back on track. Continued …

Residential developers getting cold feet

The residential construction area permitted nationwide in the first three months of 2024 is expected to plunge to the lowest level in 12 quarters, reflecting developers slowing new launches of residential supply because of weak demand.

Vichai Viratkapan, acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said the poor sentiment has worried developers, making them hesitant to expand their business or make new investments. Continued …

Communities rise up against mining

A number of communities are preparing to take legal action against the Cabinet in the wake of its approval late last year of a master plan for mining activity in the country, which they claim will destroy their living habitats and the environment.

Chutamas Srihattapadungkit, coordinator of the Project for Public Policy on Mineral Resources (PPM), said mining has become a challenging issue in many communities living near resource exploitation zones. Continued …

Thai Tourism Revenue to Hit 3 Trillion Baht, Falling Short of Goal

Thailand’s tourism industry expects to generate 3 trillion baht this year but will miss its 3.5 trillion baht target, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The shortfall is attributed to economic hurdles in key markets, primarily China.

As of today, Thailand has welcomed 14.9 million foreign visitors, bringing in 709 billion baht (US$19.4 billion). This revenue accounts for roughly 30% of the international income goal of 2.38 trillion baht (US$65 billion) set by the government. Continued …

Federation to propose 11-point plan to improve tourism industry

The Federation of Thai Tourist Associations (FETTA) is planning to propose to the government a white paper highlighting an 11-point plan to improve the tourism industry, a news source said on Wednesday.

The plan is reportedly a result of FETTA’s survey of tourism entrepreneurs and private sector enterprises on ways to make tourism a national agenda and transform Thailand into a global tourism hub. Continued …

DTV live and work Visa to be launched at the end of June

Despite rumors and speculation of a delay until later in the year or even next year, Government House on Tuesday confirmed that the new DTV visa will be available at the end of June. Similarly, the government has also pointed out that the new 60-day stamp for visa-exempt tourists will come into force later in June.

The Destination Thailand Visa has sparked a lot of interest. In brief, it will allow foreigners in Thailand to live and work online. However, the work must be in relation to commercial interests outside Thailand. The 5-year visa initially allows for 180 days but can be extended for a further 180 days. Continued …

Always wanted to live in Thailand? Digital nomad visa could be your chance

Thailand has long been a popular home base for digital nomads – but they haven’t been officially welcomed, until now. The country’s long awaited digital nomad visa has finally launched, giving people a chance to work here remotely for up to one year at a time.

The so-called Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) “targets digital nomads, remote workers and freelancers, as well as those who want to learn muay Thai and Thai cuisine,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Chai Wacharonke told press when announcing the measure in May. Continued … 

Thailand wins Best Adventure Destination in 2024 Leisure Lifestyle Awards

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), New York office, announced that Thailand has been named “Best Adventure Destination (International)” for the second consecutive year in Global Traveler’s 2024 Leisure Lifestyle Awards.

Thailand was recognized in two other prominent categories: “Best Leisure Destinations in Asia”, in which Phuket ranked third, and “Best Hotel Chain in Thailand”, in which five hotel chains were honored, including Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, which ranked number one, Six Senses earned the number two spot, JW Marriott came in third, St. Regis was listed fourth, and Four Seasons came in fifth. Continued …

Time Out names Bangkok one of best food cities

Bangkok has been named the sixth-best city in the world for food by the renowned lifestyle magazine Time Out.

Time Out, known for its focus on lifestyle, travel, and cultural experiences, surveyed to rank cities based on their food scenes. The magazine asked locals about their dining experiences, considering factors like food quality and price. Continued …

Indonesian president aims to start working from new capital in July

Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo said on Wednesday that he plans to start working from the country’s new capital city next month amid concerns over the future of the project following resignations of senior executives overseeing the development. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news

 

 

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, climate change, covid, exports, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-June 5

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Today’s news: Thailand to tax expats’ foreign income/No need for Covid boosters/Heavy rain and flash floods/Stiffer drunk-driving penalties/Best eSIM providers/Jurassic World 4/Bangkok to end to smoking at schools/Thailand’s weed dilemma/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Nearly 15 Million Entitled To Digital Wallet/Move to Legalize Casinos/Experts divided over casino/Global tax from multinational firms/Shippers fear rising freight rates/New state company to run provincial airports/Tourism: New Tax Measures/Visa Waiver Approved for EU/Thailand Experience: Durian: A delicious devil/Thailand on a Budget or in Style/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Thailand to tax expats’ foreign income irrespective of remittance

The Revenue Department of Thailand will amend a law to tax individuals with foreign income, even if that income is not brought into Thailand.

Director-General of the Revenue Department, Kulaya Tantitemit, stated that the current tax law mandates individuals residing in Thailand for over 180 days per year to pay taxes on foreign income if it is brought into the country. Continued …

No need for Covid boosters

Most people do not need to get a booster against the latest strain of Covid-19, except for vulnerable groups and the unvaccinated, as the symptoms are relatively mild and the vaccine must be paid for, according to virologist Yong Poovorawan.

Dr. Yong, from the Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University, said the severity of the virus has consistently decreased, similar to other respiratory illnesses, thanks to the high levels of vaccinations and herd immunity. Continued …

Heavy rain and flash floods expected in 37 Thai provinces

Heavy rain is expected to hit 37 provinces across Thailand today, with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warning of potential flash floods and sudden water surges, including in Bangkok. The forecast predicts that 60% of these areas will experience significant rainfall today and tomorrow.

The TMD issued a 24-hour weather forecast, indicating that the southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, upper Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand is strengthening. Additionally, a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin is contributing to the adverse weather conditions. Continued …

Calls mount for stiffer drunk-driving penalties

Authorities are pushing to increase the penalties for drunk drivers who cause injuries and road accidents.

The Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation (DDD) recently filed a petition to a House committee studying the Alcohol Control Act amendment, demanding more severe punishment for those charged with offenses related to driving under the influence, committee Chairman Wisarn Techatheerawat said on Tuesday. Continued …

Best eSIM providers and plans in Thailand

An eSIM is a digital version of the traditional SIM card. So, instead of it being a physical object that you need to insert into your device, eSIMs are software that you can simply install. Therefore, you should indeed consider them if you plan to travel to Thailand.

Some of the great benefits that you can enjoy with eSIM Thailand plans are high-speed Internet connections, swift activation, keeping your phone number, no need to sign a contract and no roaming costs. Continued …

Three Thai national parks could be filming locations for Jurassic World 4

The National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department is expected to take a few days to consider a request from the production team of “Jurassic World 4”, the latest film the Jurassic Park franchise, to use three national parks as locations.

The department’s director-general, Atthaphon Charoenchansa, said the Hollywood production has already submitted its detailed plan for the use of the locations between June 17 and 28, which include the Kradan Island and Morakot cave in the Hat Chao Mai National Park in Trang province, Huai To waterfall in Khao Phanom Benja National Park in Krabi and Tapu, Nakha and Song Phi Nong islands in Phang-nga Bay National Park in Phang-nga province. Drones will also be used during the shoot, he added. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Bangkok governor orders end to any smoking at schools

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt announced a campaign to eradicate smoking and vaping from schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). This initiative focuses intensely on preventing cigarette and e-cigarette use among children and youth and builds on annual anti-smoking efforts.

The newly issued five strict orders in the campaign include: Continued …

American, Russian Men Die In Falls From Pattaya Hotel, Condo

An American man fell to his death from the seventh floor of a hotel in Pattaya early yesterday morning, while a Russian man plunged to his death from the 29th floor of a 35-story condo at noon yesterday.

At 6 am, Police Maj. Wutinan Kongdee, an inspector at Pattaya city police station, was alerted to a guest at a hotel in Thappraya Soi 15, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, having fallen from a high floor and quickly went there with a police team and some rescuers to investigate. Continued …

Man trampled by elephant while foraging in Nam Nao Park

A 61-year-old man lost his life after being trampled by an elephant while foraging for mushrooms in Nam Nao National Park. This incident marks the second fatal elephant attack in the area this year, with the animal believed to be a protective mother startled by the man’s presence.

Police investigator Pichet Thonglor, on duty at Nam Nao Police Station in Phetchabun Province, received a report yesterday about a fatal elephant attack on a local within the park’s forest. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

King cobra nest discovered in Hat Yai rubber plantation

A team of southern herpetologists and rescue workers recently discovered a king cobra’s nest in a rubber plantation in Hat Yai. They plan to incubate the eggs before releasing the hatchlings into the wild.

Upon arrival, the rescue team found a large king cobra consuming a lesser snake beside its nest. They waited for the cobra to finish its meal before attempting to capture it. The process took approximately 13 minutes due to the snake’s aggressive nature and protective instinct over the eggs. The captured cobra measured 3.10 meters in length and was placed in a sack for relocation. Continued … 

Thailand’s weed legalization dilemma

When cannabis or ganja was legalized (the plant was removed from the illicit drugs list) in 2022 by the Prayut Chan-o-cha government, this led to mass confusion, whereby the public misunderstood and perceived it as “liberalization”. This resulted in widespread and unregulated cannabis consumption.

Internationally, cannabis use is generally divided into two categories: either medical/non-medical or recreational/non-recreational. However, in Thailand, there are three categories for cannabis use: medical, recreational, and others. The last category is problematic due to its ambiguity, which cannot be classified as medical or recreational. Continued …

Somsak: Relisting cannabis will weed out bad actors

Relisting cannabis as a narcotic will make it easier to control the use of the plant for positive purposes such as medicinal use, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin said on Tuesday.

The government aims to allow cannabis to be used for medicinal purposes, to promote good health and to stimulate the economy, he said. He was responding to growing calls by pro-cannabis groups and political parties for a law to control its use rather than blacklisting it completely. Continued …

  • Thai lifeguards nab American phone thief at Kata Beach – Continued …
  • Russian Tourist Detained for Disruptive Behaviour in Phuket Hotel – Continued …
  • Burmese Man Arrested After Fatal Stabbing in Thailand Grocery Store – Continued …

Nearly 15 Million ‘Fragile’ People Entitled To Digital Wallet by September

Officially named as “fragile” types of people, nearly 15 million nationwide will be entitled to the 10,000-baht, digital wallet handout project before fiscal 2024 ends, government spokesperson Chai Wacharong confirmed yesterday.

The 14.98 million “fragile” Thai nationals who may currently hold state welfare cards will be the first recipients to the 10,000-baht digital wallet to be handed out within the end of September, which marks the end of the current fiscal year, while other categories of recipients totaling some 35 million will have to wait until the fourth quarter of this year or during October and December, according to the government spokesperson. Continued …

Thailand Moves to Legalize Casinos

Thailand is preparing to introduce a bill to legalize casinos, aiming to create large entertainment zones to attract more tourists and generate additional state revenue.

This move is part of a broader strategy to position Thailand as a premier tourism hub. A government spokesman, Chai Wacharonke, confirmed that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has directed the finance ministry to draft the necessary legislation. Continued …

Experts divided over Thailand successfully creating an attractive casino environment

Top experts are divided about the potential for Thailand to successfully move forward with an effective, realistic, and long-lasting casino industry, which will be attractive to top international gaming operators.

In the short term, industry analyst Daniel Cheng opines that “legislation could even happen as soon as early next year”. Cheng notes that the current government “would like to see the fruits of pushing this legislation, construction and opening when they are still in government,” however, he notes that “that’s a bit of a stretch”. Continued …

Thailand readies bill to collect global tax from multinational firms

The Finance Ministry will have a global minimum tax bill ready for Cabinet approval within two weeks, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said on Tuesday.

He added that the bill, once enacted, will help the Revenue Department collect up to 20 billion baht more from multinational enterprises every year. Continued …

Shippers fear rising freight rates could dent exports in H2

A group of shippers is concerned rising freight rates could potentially impact exports in the second half.

The group plans to propose to the Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee on Commerce, which includes the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries and the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), that it address the issue of high costs. Continued …

New state company to run provincial airports

Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) is studying the creation of a subsidiary to operate small airports to be handed over by the loss-ridden Department of Airports under the government’s plan to stabilize state coffers.

AoT President Kirati Kijmanawat said on Tuesday the planned subsidiary would be directly under AoT, with the parent company and Vayupak funds among the main shareholders. It would not be open to private investors because its operations will involve state assets. Continued …

New Tax Measures to Boost Tourism

The Thai government has introduced new tax measures to invigorate the tourism sector during the low season. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul confirmed that these incentives will run from May to November, aiming to stimulate domestic travel and improve the economy.

The initiatives include tax deductions for companies hosting conventions and seminars, encouraging more business-related travel within the country. Continued …

Visa Waiver Approved for EU Official Passport Holders

Thai Cabinet has approve a draft ministerial regulation on visa exemption for holders of EU official passports.

The deputy government spokesperson said that on March 7, 2023, the Cabinet approved an agreement between the government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the European Union on the recognition of laissez-passer, i.e. the recognition of travel documents issued by the European Union (EU) as full travel documents for EU officials traveling to Thailand. Continued …

The Mall Group joins 35 organizations to form tourism ecosystem

The Mall Group marches forward to join forces with their various tourism industry partners, including hotels, airlines, international payment platforms, travel websites, and others, to form a Tourism Ecosystem and expand the Tourism Network.

This aims to attract foreign tourists, which the latest expansion has seen the partnering with 16 leading airlines, international payment platforms, and leading international travel websites to offer experiences and special privileges, beyond any other offers for foreign tourists, at The Mall Group’s department store. Continued … 

Durian and how it can be a delicious devil

Durian, often referred to as the “king of fruits”, may not be to everybody’s liking, but its sweet, buttery flesh has plenty of devotees. The best time to enjoy this fruit is between May and June when most of the harvesting is done ahead of the rainy season.

Though the spiky fruit has high calorific and sugar content, making too much of it bad for diabetes patients, it also carries plenty of nutrients. Continued …

How Much a Trip to Thailand Will Cost on a Budget or in Style

When it comes to how to best spend your vacation and leisure time away from work, taking a trip to Thailand should be top of your list. This beautiful country is unlike any other place on Earth. Whether it’s deep in the heart of Bangkok or across the rest of the country, you’ll never be without things to do or see.

Thailand can be much less expensive compared to locations like Athens or Rome. Of course, you can enjoy Thailand like a VIP if you have the means. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news 

 

 

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, climate change, exports, hospitality, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news-June 4

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Today’s news: Centara World Masters/Inter-provincial bus tickets/Koh Samui under seismic watch/Economy: Ailing Nation within ASEAN/Thai e-commerce nears 6 trillion baht/Likely to further fuel food inflation/Want Cash, Not Digital Wallet/Coffee market’s healthy growth/Tech exports face threats/Over 56,000 Skilled Foreign Workers/6th bridge to Laos/Cannabis slammed/Thailand tobacco statistics/Thailand alcohol use statistics/Tourism: Tourists flock to see butterflies/Foreign Office warns UK tourists/Dinosaur-themed park proposed/Thailand Experience: Top Hua Hin resorts/Buri Ram roads ablaze with blooms/Thai Iced Tea For Spicy Food/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Centara World Masters to tee off in Hua Hin June 9-15

Hua Hin is poised to host the 9th edition of the Centara World Masters Golf Championship.

This prestigious event, renowned as the largest amateur golf tournament in Asia, is scheduled to take place from June 9-15. The tournament will be held at two of Hua Hin’s most distinguished championship courses: Black Mountain Golf Club and Banyan Golf Club. Continued …

Inter-provincial bus tickets can now be bought on Facebook, Line

The government-run Transport Co. has started selling inter-provincial bus tickets via its Facebook and Line accounts.

Attawit Rukchamroon, acting managing director of the bus company, said that tickets can be bought via these two channels in addition to the Transport Co. app and website as of June 1. Continued …

Koh Samui under seismic watch after two small quakes

Mineral resources officials will install seismic monitoring equipment on Koh Samui this week after two earthquakes were felt there, on Thursday and Saturday.

The department said that Natural Resources and Environment Minister Patcharawat Wongsuwan was aware of residents’ concerns in the wake of the shakes, and had ordered the rapid installation of a seismic-monitoring station on the tourist island. Continued …

Is Thailand Now the Ailing Nation within ASEAN?

Thailand’s economic growth has been hindered by a prolonged political crisis and poor management, resulting in slow growth for decades. The delayed fiscal budget, lack of transparency in allocation, and high household debt are major concerns.

Additionally, the country struggles to attract high-tech investments and compete with other ASEAN nations in the auto market. In recent years, Thailand’s economic growth has slowed down significantly, leading some analysts to label the country as the “sick man of ASEAN.” Continued …

Value of Thai e-commerce nears 6 trillion baht

Like all things digital, the Thai e-commerce market is continuing to grow, with the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) reporting that the value of e-commerce in Thailand was projected to reach 5.96 trillion baht last year alone.

The e-commerce industry experiencing the highest increase in value is the insurance sector, with a growth of 31%. Following this is the arts, entertainment, and recreation industry, which grew by 24%, and the retail and wholesale industry, which grew by 13%. Continued …

La Niña weather phenomenon likely to further fuel food inflation

The Commerce Ministry is closely observing the transition from the El Niño to La Niña weather phenomenon, which could impact Thailand’s inflation, especially concerning food items like fresh vegetables and fruit due to their water sensitivity.

Director-General of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) Poonpong Naiyanapakorn stated that data from the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) shows that El Niño conditions are weakening and are likely to transition to neutral conditions between April and June. Continued …

Most Entrepreneurs Want Cash Not Digital Wallet In 10,000-Baht Handout Scheme

Most small and medium-sized entrepreneurs would prefer the much-heralded, yet-delayed populist handout project use cash rather than digital wallets as planned by the ruling Pheu Thai, according to Office of Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Acting Director-general Panita Shinawatra.

Panita, a niece of de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, said yesterday most small- and medium-sized entrepreneurs have found the 10,000-baht digital wallet campaign practically complicated and less interesting and would prefer the populist handout project be only implemented with cash and without digital wallets for the sake of convenience to both recipient buyers and sellers of merchandise. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Coffee market posts healthy growth

The Thai coffee market continues to grow, both in terms of domestic consumption and processing for export, driven by consumer lifestyles.

“Thailand has the potential to process raw coffee into finished coffee products for export, which is a key strength that helps add value to coffee products,” said Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office. Continued …

Thailand’s tech exports face threats as Vietnam takes lead

Thailand’s export sector, which contributed 54.5% of GDP last year, excluding services, faces potential disruption due to rapid technological advancements.

Vietnam has surpassed Thailand in exporting high-tech products, emerging as a key production base for the downstream electronics industry. The global market’s recovery, particularly in computers, semiconductors, and smartphones, has driven this demand. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Thailand To Welcome Over 56,000 Skilled Foreign Workers with Streamlined Visas

The Thai government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is vigorously working to enhance its workforce by attracting skilled foreign professionals. As of today, Chaiwut Watanakun, the prime minister’s spokesman, announced that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has spearheaded efforts to improve Thailand’s competitiveness in the global economy.

This includes refining visa and work permit procedures, which have already resulted in approvals for over 56,000 skilled foreign workers in targeted industries. Continued …

Thailand confirms interest in a 6th bridge to Laos

Thailand has confirmed its interest in building another bridge to Laos, the sixth connecting the two countries across the Mekong River.

The possible construction of a new bridge linking Ubon Ratchathani and Saravan province in southern Laos was discussed in recent talks between Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and his Lao counterpart, Saleumxay Kommasith. Continued …

Cannabis slammed by top medical leaders and academics

A civic hearing at the Ministry of Public Health heard that Thai government expenditure on mental health treatment costs has soared since marijuana was legalized. Funding has risen from Bt3.2 billion to upward of Bt20 billion.

At the same time, medical leaders and academics warned of its devastating mental health impact. The forum also heard that pot was a gateway drug for 40% of eventual heroin addicts. Continued … 

Thailand tobacco statistics

How many people die from smoking in Thailand each year? 70,952; 14% of all deaths in Thailand are caused by tobacco use.

What is the economic cost of smoking and tobacco use in Thailand each year? 192,742,260,736 baht. Tobacco spending diverts funds from the resources that families need to rise out of poverty. On average in Thailand, a smoker must spend 2.69% of GDP per capita to buy 100 packs of the most popular cigarettes in a year

Cigarette butts are the most commonly discarded pieces of waste worldwide. It is estimated that 8,399 tons of butts wind up as toxic trash in Thailand each year, equal to 2,400 female African elephants.

Thailand alcohol use statistics

The number of premature deaths attributable to alcohol consumption in 2021 was estimated at 22,804. Alcohol consumption incurred a total estimated economic cost of 165,450.5 million baht, equivalent to 1.02% of gross domestic product (GDP) and 2,500 baht per capita. Science has shown the links alcohol has with cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. – movendi.ngo/news

Tourists flock to Kaeng Krachan National Park to see butterflies

Tourists flocked to Ban Krang campsite at Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi province to admire butterflies freely flying amid the lush vegetation on Monday, which is a national holiday marking the birthday of Queen Suthida.

The campsite is known as a hot spot for butterfly enthusiasts to witness thousands of the flying beauties from the more than 250 species that congregate along the banks of the Phetchaburi River from March until late May or early June every year. Continued …

Foreign Office warns UK tourists about changing Thai visa rules

UK tourists have been issued a Thailand travel advisory ahead of summer. The Foreign Office has warned over new visa rules for Brits flying out to Asia for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

“From 1 June 2024, British passport holders arriving by air or land can enter Thailand without a visa (visa exemption) for the purpose of tourism and short-term business engagements for a period not exceeding 60 days,” the Foreign Office said. Continued …

Dinosaur-themed park proposed for Khon Kaen

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has proposed hatching a dinosaur-themed park in Khon Kaen to give tourism a Jurassic boost and bone-rattling revenue for the northeastern region.

Seksan Sripraiwa, director of the Khon Kaen TAT office, urged the government to team up with the private sector to make this dino-mite project a reality, citing the region’s geological significance, including the Phu Wiang Dinosaur Footprint in Khon Kaen and dinosaur fossils in Kalasin. Continued …

Some of the top Hua Hin resorts for getaways of all kinds

Stay at these resorts in Hua Hin for the ideal tranquil getaway, whether it’s for a three-day weekend or a work-from-anywhere event.

Hua Hin is always a top destination for a long or short holiday. Not only international tourists, but locals have long enjoyed this seaside escape for several decades. To make the experience even more unforgettable, stay at one of these five-star hotels that suit any kind of getaway. Continued …

Grandma Jiew

Buri Ram roads ablaze with blooms thanks to sensational Grandma Jiew

“Grandma Jiew” has become a social-media sensation at the age of 75, after her efforts to beautify roads in Buri Ram caught a passerby’s interest.

A Facebooker recently posted photographs of an elderly woman watering plants along a road with the caption: “This young man drove by and saw beautiful flowers by the road. At first, he thought it was the local authorities, but it turned out to be this grandma. She pushes her cart to water the flowers that she had planted little by little. Passersby will never know she’s the one behind it. Admirable grandma!” Continued …

Why Thai Iced Tea Is The Ultimate Drink Pairing For Spicy Food

Spicy food can unlock a whole new level of flavor for our taste buds, exhilarating the senses and providing a fiery burn. But some spicy foods can quite literally set the mouth ablaze, so much so that you need a quick remedy to cool it down.

Instead of desperately reaching for a glass of water or an ice cube, what if you found a delicious drink pairing that not only mellows out the heat but acts as a flavor companion to your spicy food? Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news

 

 

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, cha am, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-June 3

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Today’s news: Thailand’s next capital?/Thailand’s healthcare system/Chiva-som wins award/Miss Universe Thailand PKK/French Expat Rescues Two/Major Global Cyber Crime Syndicate/Further than legalizing same-sex marriage/Economy: Restructuring the economy/Economy improved in April/Thailand’s aging population/Significant drop in vehicle sales/Jurassic World 4 in Thailand/Police Detain 34 Illegal Foreign Workers/Tourism: Coral bleaching forces closures/Phuket Airport Plans New International Terminal/Parasailing accidents in Pattaya/Songkhla pushes for cruise terminal/Indians’ Airbnb bookings/Thai Airways resumes Brussels-Bangkok route/Thailand Experience: Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park/Best time to visit Thailand/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Could Phuket be Thailand’s next capital?

The news last month that Thailand’s government is seriously considering relocating the capital city due to rising sea levels has sent shock waves through the nation.

The catalyst for this dramatic proposition? Bangkok, the current capital and Thailand’s beating heart, is sinking. Continued …

How Thailand’s healthcare system serves the international market

The extensive network of private hospitals in Thailand is sophisticated in terms of the quality of care it offers for overseas patients and its marketing strategy. Many of the brands have become recognized globally for medical excellence. The growth has been astonishing.

Bangkok Hospital, which opened in 1972 with just four departments, is now under the umbrella of Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), a group with 59 hospitals across six major brands, including Bangkok Hospital, Samitivej, BNH, Phyathai, and Paolo. Continued …

Hua Hin’s Chiva-Som wins Mahidol University ‘influencer’ award

Krod Rojanastien, consultant to CEO and chairman of Chiva-Som International Health Resorts, recently accepted the Mahidol Public Health Influencer Award for Organisation 2024 from the Mahidol University Faculty of Public Health, recognizing the resort’s excellence in health promotion.

The award celebrats the best of the best in public health promotion and sustainability across Thailand, honoring trailblazers who have set high benchmarks in health and wellness through meaningful initiatives and programs that have made a substantial impact on the community. Continued …

Miss Universe Thailand PKK introduced

Jennifer Gallemart was introduced as Miss Universe Thailand Prachuapkhirikhan 2024 Saturday in a Market Village ceremony. Gallemart is a 22-year-old Thai-Belgian student from Bangkok University. The Miss Universe Thailand 2024 competition, under the concept “BEYOND UNIVERSE,” will run from June 14 to July 14. Representatives from each province will participate in various activities in Prachuap Khiri Khan from June 26 to July 2. (HHT)

French Expat Rescues Two Men from Drowning in Lopburi

On Sat urday, Khok Tum police received an emergency call about three individuals drowning at the Bott Camping Ground in Mueang Lopburi. Although two men were rescued, one individual remains missing.

Upon receiving the report, Khok Tum police, rescue divers, and other agencies rushed to the scene. Two of the men were pulled from a pond by the brave bystander, and transported to a local hospital. Both men were exhausted and had ingested water. Continued …

Thai Police and FBI Dismantle Major Global Cyber Crime Syndicate

In a significant victory against cybercrime, Thai police, in collaboration with the FBI, have dismantled an international cybercrime syndicate, culminating in the arrest of the group’s mastermind in Singapore and the seizure of over a billion baht’s worth of assets in Thailand.

The operation, spearheaded by Central Investigation Bureau chief Police Lt. Gen. Jirabap Bhuridej following a request from FBI attaché Mike Chai, targeted Wang Yunhe, a Chinese national identified as the ringleader. Continued …

PM says Thailand will go further than legalizing same-sex marriage

In its effort to promote gender diversity, Thailand will not stop at legalizing same-sex marriage, which will later become effective this year, according to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today.

“Thailand will continue to support gender diversity after successfully passing the marriage equality bill. We are looking forward to pushing for gender recognition and sex worker laws,” he said. Continued …

Restructuring the economy the only way forward, experts say

Compared to its neighbors, the Thai economy has grown at a slower pace in recent times, well below its potential, analysts say. In the first quarter of 2024, it grew by 1.5% year-on-year, while in 2023, it expanded by just 1.9%.

This is not only a result of the global economic conditions but also due to the country’s production structure, which has led to a decline in the competitiveness of Thai-produced goods on the global market, causing decreased exports and impacting overall GDP growth. Continued …

Thai economy improved in April, with growth driven by tourist arrivals

In April, the Thai economy saw improvement, bolstered by growth in the service sector due to an increase in tourist arrivals.

There was a rise in domestic demand, marked by an upswing in private consumption and investment. Additionally, exports, inflation, and the labor market exhibited encouraging indicators. Continued …

Thailand’s aging population hits consumption and economic growth

The demographic changes in Thailand, including an aging population and declining birth rate, are significantly impacting the country’s domestic consumption, which has been a major driver of economic growth.

A study by the Kasikorn Research Center highlights that compared to other countries in the region, Thailand has a higher reliance on domestic consumption for economic growth. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Significant drop in vehicle sales recorded from Jan-April

The overall performance of Thailand’s automotive industry in the first four months of 2024 has continued to slow, with 210,494 new vehicles sold in this period, representing a decline of 23.9%.

Breaking down the sales by segment reveals that 82,903 passenger cars were sold, a decrease of 15.2%. In the commercial vehicle market, 127,591 units were sold, marking a significant drop of 28.7%. Continued …

Jurassic World 4 Set to Film Across Thailand

Thailand is set to host the filming for “Jurassic World 4,” the latest installment in the iconic Jurassic Park franchise. The filming, directed by Colin Trevorrow, will take place from June 13 to July 16 in several picturesque locations, including Bangkok, Krabi, Trang, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.

The decision to film in Thailand came as a boon to the national economy, with expectations to inject around 650 million baht through a variety of local services. Continued …

Immigration Police Detain 34 Illegal Foreign Workers in Chonburi Raid

Chonburi immigration authorities raided a plastic factory yesterday and arrested 34 illegal foreign workers. The superintendent of the Chonburi Immigration Police, Naphatphong Kositsuriyamanee, led the operation, joined by officials from the Department of Employment and the Chonburi Provincial Labor Office.

(Editor: Normally, we might not post this story but, when reading, we wondered why the owner of the business was not arrested. The company is known for using illegal workers, who, in all fairness, are just looking for a way to survive.)

The raid took place in the Wat Suwan subdistrict, Bo Thong district, where a labor camp was discovered within the boundaries of a plastic factory. A substantial number of foreign workers were found busy sorting plastic parts in the camp. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Coral bleaching forces closures of PKK’s best snorkeling locations

Officials have announced the closure of snorkeling activities around Ko Chan and Ko Thai See due to coral bleaching, effective June 11.

The head of Hat Wanakorn National Park, Suporn Phonpan, stated that recent monitoring efforts have revealed significant coral bleaching in the shallow reefs surrounding these islands. The phenomenon, exacerbated by June’s low sea levels, poses a threat to the marine ecosystem and presents safety risks for tourists. Continued …

Phuket Airport Plans to Invest 6 Billion Baht in New International Terminal

Phuket Airport is set to undergo a major expansion, investing 6 billion baht to construct a new terminal dedicated to international flights. This development aims to increase the airport’s capacity from handling 12.5 million passengers annually to 18 million.

The airport’s director, Monchai Tanod, highlighted the urgent need for this expansion. Recent data shows that last month Phuket Airport saw an influx of approximately 16,000 domestic passengers daily, reaching 90% of its pre-Covid-19 traffic levels. International flights were even busier, averaging 22,000 daily arrivals and departures, which is 7% higher than the number recorded in 2019 before the pandemic. Continued …

Parasailing accidents spark action in Pattaya

Pattaya City Mayor Poramet Ngampichet has declared immediate measures following an alarming rise in parasailing accidents in the popular tourist destination. At a meeting held on Friday, Ngampichet convened with city officials and tourist police to discuss stricter regulations for parasailing operators in Pattaya.

With activities ranging from jet skiing and sunset photography to banana boat rides, water sports are a significant draw for tourists visiting Pattaya Beach. Yet, the increasing number of parasailing mishaps has raised significant safety concerns. Continued …

Songkhla pushes for cruise terminal to boost tourism

The Songkhla Tourism Assn. is calling for government intervention to boost tourism by constructing a cruise ship terminal and introducing direct flights from Chinese cities to Hat Yai.

President of the Songkhla Tourism Promotion Assn. Songchai Mungprasithichai announced plans to seek government support for direct flights to Hat Yai, proposing routes such as Kunming-Hat Yai to attract more Chinese tourists to the province. Continued …

Indians’ Airbnb bookings in Thailand soar

More Indian tourists, especially those of Gen Y and Gen Z, are visiting Thailand. They like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Phuket and Koh Samui, but have started to look at less-known destinations, according to a government spokesman.

Chai Wacharonke quoted the homestay platform Airbnb as reporting that the number of Indian travelers reserving accommodations in Thailand through Airbnb rose by about 60% during 2022 and 2023. Continued …

Thai Airways resumes daily Brussels-Bangkok route Dec 1

Starting Dec. 1, Thai Airways (THAI) will resume its daily direct passenger flights between Brussels Airport and Bangkok.

This route was suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic, and significantly enhances Brussels Airport’s intercontinental offerings. Continued …

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park: a hidden gem in Cha Am

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park, located just a short trip from Hua Hin, offers an adventurous, yet accessible, hiking experience that shouldn’t be missed. The park, known for its scenic limestone mountain range visible from the main road, features several hiking routes that are both short and rewarding.

One standout trail is the “Bathing Pond of Phra Sang,” a 2.5-kilometer nature trail that brings the classic Thai literature “Sang Thong” to life through four landmark points. Continued …

The best time to visit Thailand, based on the weather

While the Land of Smiles is recognized and revered for its balmy beaches, idyllic islands, ravishing resorts, stunning scenery, and crave-worthy cuisine, it isn’t known for having four distinct seasons.

Technically, Thailand’s weather encompasses three seasons: summer, monsoon, and the cool season. In actuality, the country experiences three main conditions: hot, hot and wet, and very hot. Continued …

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

 

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin

Friday’s news-May 31

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Today’s news: The flower of World No Tobacco Day/Makro to upgrade/Chadchart warns street vendors/Escaped Kangaroo Confirmed Dead/Quake in Koh Samui/Economy: Factory output unexpectedly rises/Concerns raised about acquisition of land/Minimum wage policy faces resistance/Solutions to nominee business issues/China firm wins port contract/Amazon Web Services to launch data center region/Subaru to end car-assembly operations/Tourism: 300 baht landing fee/Upgrade of tourism ‘infrastructure’/Excessive tourism on Koh Larn/British man arrested on Koh Pha Ngan/Thailand Experience: 17 Durian Destinations/International news/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Expat News is pleased to welcome our newest sponsor – Trattoria by Andreas

From Trieste, a little town in the northeast of Italy, a region called Friuli Venezia Giulia, Andreas Bonifacio has learned his craft through postings at prestigious restaurants in London and Bangkok. He now operates the fine-dining establishment Trattoria in Hua Hin.

In his early days, his experience came from many famous restaurants and pastry shops in Italy and around Europe. His experience includes at the 5-star Hotel Cristallo in Cortina d’Ampezzo, at the famous London hotel The Dorchester, and at Bangkok’s Fallabella, part of the prestigious Royal Bangkok Sport Club.

Video 

Trattoria proudly presents its new “Set Lunch” that will run every week from Monday to Friday from 12.00 to 14.00 (last order 13.30). The menu will change every two weeks. It is very simple, with the price of the main dish comes one starter of your choice and a complimentary bread basket. We are looking very much forward to have you at Trattoria for lunch. For reservations, call 096-995-0242

Leelawadee, the flower of World No Tobacco Day

World No Tobacco Day is observed around the world every year on May 31, with ashtrays and fresh flowers used as a common symbol in marking the occasion. Thailand, however, doesn’t use any common blooms to mark this important day but rather a specific flower – leelawadee.

Leelawadee (plumeria or frangipani), a small flowering tree often grown as cosmopolitan ornamentals, has long been used by Thais as a symbol of quitting personal vices. The meaning came from its former name “lan thom”, with lan meaning to abandon and thom denoting sadness or bad things. Continued …

Makro to upgrade, grow stores

Makro, under CP Extra Plc, is upgrading its brand to a modern wholesale and retail business, aiming to expand its market both online and offline to cope with changing consumer behavior.

According to Tanit Chearavanont, chief executive of Makro Thailand, the company’s plan for this year includes expanding its branches, currently tallying 168, while renovating stores to create a new look and enhance the brand, as consumer behavior has changed since the pandemic. Continued …

Chadchart warns street vendors of income checks and tax bills

Bangkok City Hall is imposing measures to rein in street vendors, including checking their income, taxing them, and eventually ending hawking on pavements altogether.

The measures were announced by Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt after a meeting he chaired on Thursday on the orderliness of city surroundings. Continued …

Escaped Kangaroo Confirmed Dead after Chiang Mai Search

The director of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand confirmed that officers discovered the body of a runaway kangaroo near Chang Khian Waterfall, close to the foothills of Doi Suthep mountain in Chiang Mai.

The red kangaroo, aged two years and six months, escaped from Chiang Mai Zoo early yesterday morning, prompting a major search operation. Continued …

2.4-magnitude quake in Koh Samui

An earthquake, measuring 2.4 on the Richter scale, struck Koh Samui at 8.24am on Thursday. Jirawat Kamchadphai, a meteorologist at the Earthquake Observation Division, said the quake happened in tambon Ang Thong on the western part of the island.

The epicenter of the tremor occurred at a depth of four kilometers under Thaweerat Phakde, a loop road around the island. Continued … 

Factory output unexpectedly rises for first time in 19 months

Thailand’s manufacturing production index unexpectedly rose 3.43% in April from a year earlier, increasing for the first time in 19 months, helped by higher exports and tourism, the Industry Ministry said on Thursday.

The figure compared with a forecast of a 1.1% year-on-year fall for April in a Reuters poll and followed an annual decrease of 5.13% in March. Continued …

Concerns raised about acquisition of land for mega project

Private companies interested in investing in the government’s land bridge project expressed concern over legal issues that could delay land delivery in the mega project that will serve as a link between the Pacific and Indian oceans in the south of Thailand.

The mega project involves constructing deep-sea ports in Chumphon and Ranong provinces and transforming transport routes between Chumphon and Ranong to link the ports. The land bridge will help ease shipping congestion in the Malacca Straits, currently the main regional trade route for cargo. Continued …

Minimum wage policy faces winds of resistance

Since the day the government pinned the 400 baht minimum daily wage to the chat, Thailand has witnessed a robust debate about the policy. The members of the Tripartite National Wage Committee, which involves the government, the employers and the employees, do not appear to be on the same page.

What does each of them think about the 400-baht minimum wage? What do studies show about the impact of wage rise on the economy? Here is an overview on the trajectory of this debate with a mock-up chatroom. Continued …

Experts point out solutions to nominee business issues

The Lawyers Council of Thailand under Royal Patronage, in cooperation with the Thai-Chinese Journalists Assn., organized a seminar entitled “Unveiling and Closing Loopholes in Nominee Structures: Dissecting Thai-Chinese Investment Laws.”

The aim of the seminar was to address concerns and uncertainties regarding direct and indirect foreign investment affecting Thailand’s protected professions and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Continued …

China firm wins Bt7-billion Laem Chabang Port contract

China Harbour Engineering Co. (CHEC) has won the infrastructure contract for phase 3 development of Laem Chabang Port in Chonburi province, the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) announced on Wednesday.

PAT Director-general Kriengkrai Chaisiriwongsuk said the Chinese company’s contract bid was 160 million baht lower than the project’s estimate of 7.38 billion baht (about US$200 million) to construct infrastructure, buildings, docks, roads and other facilities. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Amazon Web Services to launch data center region early next year

Amazon Web Services (AWS), the cloud computing arm of Amazon, is ready to launch its new data center region in Thailand by early next year as part of a commitment announced in 2022.

An investment of more than 190 billion baht (US$5.15 billion) in Thailand through 2037 will provide developers, startups, entrepreneurs, enterprises, government, educators and non-profit organizations greater choice when running their applications, while serving end users from data centers located in Thailand, according to AWS. Continued …

Subaru to end car-assembly operations in Thailand

TC Subaru (Thailand) announced recently that all Subaru vehicles will be imported now that Tan Chong International (TCIL) and Subaru Corp. have decided to cease car-assembly operations in Thailand by year end.

“From 2025, cars sold in Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia will transition to imported cars from Japan. This will enable the introduction of new products to markets like Thailand more quickly and strengthen brand-building through new Subaru models in premium segments that emphasize technology,” the statement said. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

300 baht landing fee ‘unlikely to be scrapped’

Thailand is unlikely to abandon the controversial tourist tax called “Kha Yeap Pan Din” (fee for stepping on Thai soil), also known as a “landing fee”, according to new Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich.

The measure, approved in principle by the Cabinet in February last year, aims to levy 300 baht ($8.17) for foreigners arriving by air and 150 baht ($4.09) for those arriving by land or sea. Continued …

Ministry prioritizes upgrade of tourism ‘infrastructure’

Thailand still has weaknesses in infrastructure and services, as destinations have not developed to keep pace with demand, though the government has pledged to improve the nation’s ranking in the tourism development index during its four-year term.

Thailand fell in the latest World Economic Forum (WEF) Travel and Tourism Development Index to 47th from 36th, with Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich acknowledging some tourism destinations still have flaws in infrastructure and services, requiring a special improvement plan for upgrades. Continued …

Excessive tourism could jeopardize Koh Larn’s future

A member of Pattaya City Council, Phasakorn Yusoomboon, has expressed concern over the increasing number of tourists and unchecked development on Koh Larn Island.

Phasakorn, who represents Pattaya District 1, brought up the issue at the recent council meeting, pointing out that the island daily receives over 10,000 tourists. This number can even reach up to 20,000 during peak seasons. Continued …

British man arrested on Koh Pha Ngan for illegal tour operations

Police arrested a British man in Koh Pha Ngan yesterday for illegally working as a tour guide, charging foreign tourists 70,000 baht each and enjoying free accommodations in Thailand.

Reports received detail that Deputy Superintendent of the Tourist Police Division 5 Sak Sirah Phueak-am, in collaboration with the district chief of Koh Phangan, had apprehended 25-year-old Briton Jabrane Eelahi at a hotel in Ban Tai, Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani Province. Continued …

17 Durian Destinations to Visit

Recently, the Tourism Authority of Thailand unveiled an enticing guide, “17 Durian Destinations to Visit Before You Die,” highlighting Thailand’s esteemed durian cultivation spots.

Just a short drive from Hua Hin, the tranquil Pa La-U rainforest harbors Thailand’s prized durian varieties.

For both seasoned connoisseurs and novices eager to delve into the world of this infamous fruit, this list serves as a treasure map, promising a journey through a spectrum of sweetness and creaminess. Continued …

Trump becomes first former US president convicted of felony crimes

Donald Trump became the first former American president to be convicted of felony crimes Thursday, as a New York jury found him guilty of all 34 charges in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment to a porn actor who said the two had sex. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news

 

 

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

 

bangkok, cha am, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, retirement, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news-May 28

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Today’s news: Feedback/Condo glut in Cha Am/Expats face base tax/Coffee and heart health/Talcum powder and ovarian cancer/You are unknowingly dehydrated/Inaction on road safety/British Expat Kills Russian/Thailand Supplies Bhutan with weapons/2 years in jail for lese majeste/4 years for burning king’s image/34 remain in Bangkok hospital/Thais don’t want to tie knot/Economy: Steps to lift growth/Thailand’s FDI lowest in ASEAN/The lives of Burmese and Cambodian migrant workers/Wage hike would benefit migrants/Tourism: Thailand drops 11 places/Thailand’s beleaguered islands/Thailand Experience: Bangkok Expat Reveals the City’s Secrets/Monitor lizard sparks office chaos/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Re: New airline for Hua Hin Airport

“The goal of 1 hour domestic flights from Hua Hin to Hat Yai is fantasy if EZY-Air is to use the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan Ex, which has a maximum speed of 175 knots. One hour at that max speed will get you down to Chumphon.” – PB

Condo glut in Cha Am likely to persist, Hua Hin market ‘robust’

The condo market in Cha Am still faces a glut, with the inventory of unsold units expected to take 10 years to be absorbed, while the Hua Hin condo market remains robust, says property consultant Colliers Thailand.

Phattarachai Taweewong, director of the research department at Colliers, said there is a huge volume of unsold condo units in Cha Am despite no new supply being launched since 2016. Continued …

Some Expat foreign residents face a base tax bill of up to Bt71k a year

Foreigners in Thailand will be expected to file tax asset returns for the year 2024 by the end of March 2025. This comes with Thai tax authorities moving to widen the kingdom’s tax base as the country seeks structural economic changes to address its growing aged population.

The new taxation regime could mean a minimum of Bt71,000 tax for some retired expats living in Thailand. This is based on the base income level stipulated by the Immigration Bureau. However, if an appropriate tax treaty is in place, it can help the taxpayer. For instance, a provision meaning that pension fund income is only taxed in the country where it is based. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

The surprising positive impact of coffee on heart health

Coffee is more than just a beloved morning ritual; it’s a global phenomenon with over 2.25 billion cups consumed daily. Beyond its caffeine content, coffee contains numerous bioactive compounds that could influence our health.

One such compound is cafestol, a diterpene found in coffee beans that has attracted significant attention for its potential impact on cardiovascular health. Cafestol is a powerful substance with the potential to affect various aspects of heart health. Continued …

Using talcum powder increases risk for ovarian cancer by 234%

In recent years, the use of talcum powder, especially in the genital area, has come under intense scrutiny due to its potential link to ovarian cancer. A comprehensive study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology on May 15 highlights this alarming connection, shedding light on the risks associated with intimate care products.

Talcum powder, a product derived from the mineral talc, is widely used for its moisture-absorbing properties. It’s a staple in many households, commonly found in baby powders and adult body powders. However, its safety has been questioned, particularly concerning its link to ovarian cancer. Continued …

You are unknowingly dehydrated: Here’s what you need to know

Water is the essence of life. Every living organism on Earth, including humans, relies on water for survival. For humans, water is vital for various bodily functions, including cognitive, digestive, cardiovascular, and muscular activities.

Despite its importance, many people fail to drink enough water daily. Alarmingly, up to 75% of individuals globally are chronically dehydrated, often without realizing it. Dehydration can manifest in subtle ways that are easy to overlook. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Inaction on road safety

“Improving road safety” is not a catchy political campaign slogan. But when Srettha Thavisin’s government came into power last year it (rightly) highlighted road safety as a major policy.

It pledged to do so in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically target 3.6, which aims to halve the number of global deaths and injuries from road traffic crashes, and target 11.2, which aims to provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems and improve road safety for all. Continued …

British Expat Arrested For Punching and Killing Russian Man

A young British man was detained in Pattaya after his punch resulted in the death of a Russian man at a pool party. The British man allegedly hit the Russian because he made sexual advances toward his wife.

Igor Yasilyev, a 36-year old Russian, was attacked by a foreign individual he met at a social event in a Pattaya villa. The incident happened at 3:16am at a villa situated in View Point Village on Soi Chaiyaphruek 1 in Banglamung. Continued …

Thailand Supplies Bhutan with Thai-Made Armored Vehicles and Pistols

In a key ceremony yesterday, Thailand transferred a significant cache of arms to Bhutan’s police force, solidifying defense ties between the two nations. The delivery, overseen by Defense Minister Sutin Klungsang, included 10 armored vehicles and 230 pistols, all produced by Thai manufacturers.

Held at the Defense Ministry’s headquarters, the event underscored the cooperation between Thailand and Bhutan. The Bhutanese ambassador to Thailand was present to receive the weapons produced by Thai Defense Industry Co. (TDI) and Weapons Manufacturing Industries Co. (WMI). Continued …

Move Forward MP handed 2 years in jail for lese majeste

Move Forward MP Chonticha Jaengraew was on Monday sentenced to two years in prison after being found guilty of lese majeste (insulting the monarchy) during her speech at a protest in 2021.

Thanyaburi Provincial Court ruled that Chonticha breached the royal defamation law, or Article 112 of the penal code, by criticizing the enactment of the 2017 Royal Service Administration Act and how the monarch utilizes authority. Continued …

Singer ‘Ammy’ gets 4 years for burning king’s image in 2021 protest

Thai singer Chaiyamon Kaewwibunphan, better known as “Ammy the Bottom Blues”, was slapped with a four-year jail term over lese majeste charges for setting fire to the King’s portrait during a protest in 2021.

The Criminal Court ruled on Monday that Chaiyamon, along with another activist Thanapat Kapeng, had breached Articles 112 and 217 of the Penal Code as well as Article 14 of the 2017 Computer Crimes Act. Continued …

One week after Singapore Airlines turbulence, 34 remain in Bangkok hospital

Thirty-four Singapore Airlines passengers remain hospitalized in Bangkok almost one week after their flight struck turbulence, underscoring the severity of the fatal incident.

In an update late Monday, the airline said 50 people who were on the London-Singapore service on May 21 are still in the Thai capital, including those receiving medical treatment. All the crew from flight SQ321 have returned to Singapore. Continued …

Increasingly, Thais don’t want to tie the knot

More Thais than ever prefer living the single life to getting married, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council, which partly blames it on SINK.

The NESDC said on Monday 40.5% of people of reproductive age had no desire to tie the knot, an increase from 35.7% in 2017, despite the government campaigning for people to have more children in the face of an aged society. Continued …

Economic chiefs weigh steps to lift growth, credit access

Thailand’s economic chiefs underscored the need for urgent stimulus measures and improved access to credit for small business to accelerate growth rate in the short-term amid the highest interest rate in a decade and near-zero inflation.

The government will focus on boosting manufacturing and extending loan guarantees for small and medium enterprises to help lift potential growth rate to over 3.5% annually, according to Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Continued …

Thailand’s FDI ranks lowest among ASEAN countries

Thailand received the lowest foreign direct investment (FDI) of US$2.96 billion among ASEAN members in 2023, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

The council urged the government to facilitate the country’s transition to high-tech industries in order to attract more investors. Continued …

Exploring the lives of Burmese and Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand

Over the past several years, it has been noticeable that Burmese and Cambodian migrant workers have become significant forces in various sectors, both small and large, in Thailand.

According to the latest statistics released by the Foreign Workers Administration Office, Department of Employment in April 2567, there were a total of 3,326,034 foreign workers authorized to work in Thailand. Continued …

FTI argues minimum wage hike would primarily benefit migrants

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is urging the government to reconsider its plan to raise the daily minimum wage to 400 baht nationwide, arguing that the policy would primarily benefit migrant workers rather than stimulate the local economy.

Every year, migrant workers from neighboring countries remit approximately 100 billion baht to their families back home. The FTI contends that a significant portion of these funds comes from their earnings in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand drops 11 places in tourism ranking

Tourism operators are disappointed with the government for failing to improve the country’s position in the travel and tourism development index, after Thailand dropped to 47th place, from 36th, in the latest World Economic Forum (WEF) index.

Among Southeast Asian nations, three countries outperformed Thailand – Singapore, which was ranked 13th, followed by Indonesia (22nd) and Malaysia (35th). Continued …

Ways sought to assist Thailand’s beleaguered islands

The government is looking to solve several problems, including water shortages and illegal businesses, that are hampering tourism in Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich recently met with entrepreneurs from Surat Thani’s Koh Samui and Koh Phangan islands to discuss the tourism situation in the province. Continued …

40 Years On, a Bangkok Expat Reveals the City’s Secrets

When you hear Bangkok, you might think of traffic jams, pollution, and seedy malls. But like anywhere else, if you know it intimately, it becomes a totally different place. To know Bangkok is to love it.

I first came to Bangkok at the age of 18, on a tour of Southeast Asia. That was 40 years ago, and I’ve lived and worked here off and on ever since. Nowadays, a concrete-and-steel-tooth skyline dominates the city, but Bangkok’s soul remains the same. Then, as now, I still regard Bangkok as the greatest city on Earth to live, work, and play. Continued …

Monitor lizard sparks electricity office chaos in Sara Buri

A large monitor lizard caused quite a stir when it wandered into the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) office in Sara Buri. The unexpected visitor prompted a call for assistance from rescue volunteers to safely capture and relocate the creature.

Security officers at the PEA office in Sara Buri’s Pak Phriao subdistrict reported spotting the sizable reptile, weighing approximately 30 kilograms, near a Toyota pickup truck parked on the premises. Continued …

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Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586