Run Khan Do event/Pone Kingphet Park renovation/Royal Hua Hin Course hosts Thai LPGA/Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan/Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased/EC announces 71% voter turnout/Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home/AI-Driven Traffic Lights in Bangkok/Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise/Keep their hair in check/Bomb on husband’s mistress’ car- ECONOMY: Thailand faces high baht volatility/SCB predicts gradual baht decline/Thailand’s 2026 growth outlook improves/Manufacturing index rises/Thailand’s Role in Semiconductor Supply Chains/40,000-ton rice deal/Trump’s Tariff Setback Implications
- TOURISM: Is Thailand becoming rude and expensive?/Dual pricing, who pays the price?/Thailand’s Fast-Growing Wellness Market/Tomorrowland Thailand expected to generate 5.5 billion/Etihad Airways to debut Airbus A380 in Bangkok
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Salt making on the decline/The best time to visit Thailand/5 hidden gems in lesser-known cities/Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Run Khan Do event to run through July
The third RUN KHAN DO event will take place across Prachuap Khiri Khan from March to July 2026, with officials confirming that preparations are now under way to deliver a larger and more varied program this year. On Wednesday, Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, chaired a planning meeting at the Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports to review progress and coordinate arrangements for RUN KHAN DO 2026.
Officials confirmed that a total of 12 events will be organized across all eight districts of the province, running continuously from March to July. The program will include fun runs, health walks, trail running competitions, and a commemorative cycling event. Continued …
Pone Kingphet Park renovation behind Songkran schedule
The Pone Kingphet Park renovation is being accelerated by Hua Hin City Municipality to ensure the venue is ready for Songkran 2026.
Yesterday, Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul led municipal executives, councillors, and relevant officials to inspect progress at the park, which is undergoing a major redevelopment. He acknowledged that construction has fallen behind the original schedule and instructed the contractor to increase manpower and machinery to speed up the remaining works. Continued …
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course hosts first Thai LPGA event of year
The ThaiLPGA Tour 2026 season will offer total prize money of 18 million baht, with the opening events scheduled for March at Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, organizers said.
The Women’s Professional Golf Association of Thailand said the season will begin with ThaiLPGA Tour Q School on March 18-19 at Royal Hua Hin, followed by the Singha-SAT Ladies Open from March 20-22. The opening tournament will offer 1.5 million baht in prize money. Continued …
Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan
A total of 54,000 methamphetamine pills were seized in Mueang district following a coordinated operation by police and provincial officials, according to authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
At a press conference held at the Border Patrol Police Subdivision 14 in Huai Sai subdistrict Wednesday, Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, outlined details of the arrest of two male suspects and the seizure of the drugs. Continued …
Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased in 2025
Road accidents in Thailand fell in 2025, according to new data released yesterday at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. Police Gen. Samran Nuanma, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police and director of the Traffic Management Center, said statistics show a decline in crashes, fatalities, and injuries. However, speeding remains the leading cause of accidents nationwide.
PRS figures for 2025 recorded 20,967 road accidents, a decrease of more than 11% from the previous year. Fatalities totaled 11,779, down more than 15%, while injuries fell by over 20% to 12,182 cases. Police said the reductions reflect proactive enforcement efforts by traffic officers nationwide. Continued …
EC announces 71% voter turnout in 2026 election, over 35 million valid votes
The Election Commission (EC) has announced the final voter turnout for the 2026 general election, with 37.8 million voters (71.4%) participating on Feb.8. Continued …
Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home, Flee With B2 Million
Three hooded men armed with knives stormed a home in the Pattaya area, late yesterday, stealing a safe containing more than 2 million baht in cash from a British resident before fleeing in a black pickup truck.
The victims, a 32-year-old British national and his 34-year-old Thai partner, were left shaken but unharmed. Police have launched a manhunt following the robbery at Chokchai Village 9, off Soi Khao Noi. Continued …
AI-Driven Traffic Lights Launched in Bangkok
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has started upgrading traffic signals at various intersections, incorporating an adaptive system using CCTV and AI technology to adjust in real time. This initiative aims to transition from fixed-timing to automated adaptive control, improving convenience and reducing time on the roads.
The BMA manages 746 intersections, with 578 having traffic lights. Currently, 433 of these use fixed signals, 71 have adaptive loop detectors, and 74 have been updated to the new adaptive real-time CCTV system. Fixed-time signals often cause inefficiencies, like green lights with no traffic or unnecessary red light waits. Continued …
Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise by up to 20% in Thailand
Rising memory component costs have pushed up launch prices for Samsung’s latest flagship lineup, with several models in the new Galaxy S26 series debuting up to 20% higher than their Galaxy S25 predecessors in Thailand.
Samsung Electronics this week unveiled the Galaxy S26 series, positioning proactive, on-device artificial intelligence (AI) as the core differentiator in the premium smartphone segment. Continued …
BTS asks passengers to keep their hair in check
The operator of the BTS Skytrain has called on passengers to refrain from flicking or tossing their hair while traveling during peak hours, warning that loose locks could accidentally strike fellow commuters in the face, shoulders, eyes, or mouth.
Passengers with long hair are urged to hold their tresses in place when turning their heads, walking past others, or boarding and alighting from trains. Continued …
Thai wife arrested for planting bomb on husband’s mistress’ car
A Thai woman attached explosive devices to the car of her husband’s mistress in an attempted killing, but the devices failed to fully detonate, causing only minor damage to the vehicle. The victim told police an explosive device fell from her car and exploded on the road, causing a loud noise and sparks.
Police went to the scene with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team to examine the evidence. Officers said the device was a homemade improvised explosive device (IED) contained in four glass bottles, with only one bottle exploding. Continued …
Thailand faces high baht volatility from internal and external risks
This year continues to be a period of high uncertainty for Thai businesses, driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic policies, interest rate directions, and the transition to new technologies. Meanwhile, domestic factors such as a strong Thai baht, high household debt, weak demand, and a fragile economic structure are further intensifying the pressure on the business sector.
Patrick Poulia, deputy general manager and head of the financial markets function at Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), stated that the overall economy and financial markets in 2026 face multidimensional challenges. Continued …
SCB predicts gradual baht decline
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) expects the baht to gradually weaken against the US dollar, reaching 33 baht per dollar in the fourth quarter of this year, driven by a combination of domestic and external factors.
SCB forecasts the baht to ease to 31.50 per dollar in the first quarter, 31.70 in the second quarter, 32 in the third quarter, and 33 in the fourth quarter. Continued …
Thailand’s 2026 growth outlook improves to 2.1%, despite structural headwinds
TRIS Rating has raised its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 2.1% from 1.7%, following stronger-than-expected momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, when the economy expanded 2.4%. Despite the upward revision, growth is still projected to moderate from last year, reflecting persistent structural constraints.
Private consumption remains under pressure from fragile consumer confidence and elevated household debt. The Consumer Confidence Index fell to 51.9 in December 2025 from 53.2 in November, following the dissolution of parliament. Meanwhile, household debt stood at 86.8% of GDP in the second quarter of 2025 — the highest level among ASEAN peers — continuing to weigh on spending. Continued …
Thai manufacturing index rises
Factory activity in Thailand picked up in January, driven by heightened political activity during the election campaign and strong demand in the automotive sector, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
The Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) rose 1.4% year-on-year to 101.58 points, compared with from 95.02 in December, said Supakit Boonsiri, the director-general of the office. He said campaign-related spending lifted sales of posters, food, paper, printing materials, and beverages.The index also benefited from rising sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), he said. Continued …
Thailand’s Emerging Role in Global Semiconductor Supply Chains
The global semiconductor industry is entering an increasingly strategic phase, driven by accelerated investments in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and electric vehicles (EV).
Electronic chips are no longer merely key components of conventional electronic devices; they have become essential infrastructure of the modern economy, supporting a wide range of applications — from industrial systems and automation to security technologies. Continued …
Thai and Chinese governments reach 40,000-ton rice deal
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of Commerce, has revealed that the Thai government and the government of the People’s Republic of China have reached a government-to-government rice-trading agreement for a volume of 40,000 tons.
The delivery is scheduled to gradually begin from February 2026 onward. This marks another significant step reflecting the strong relationship and long-standing rice trade cooperation between the two countries. Continued …
Trump’s Tariff Setback: Implications for China and Global Trade
US trading partners, including China and the EU, are responding to Trump’s recent tariff setbacks and warnings of potential new tariffs. They are likely adopting cautious or defensive strategies in light of these developments, reflecting concerns over economic stability and trade relations. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between the US and its trade partners over tariffs and trade policies.
The setback of Donald Trump’s tariffs marks a significant turning point in global trade dynamics. During his administration, tariffs were used as a tool to pressure China into changing trade practices, but these measures led to increased costs and tensions. The recent move to roll back or ease some tariffs suggests a shift toward more cooperative trade relations, which could benefit both China and the global economy. Continued …
Is Thailand becoming rude and expensive for foreign visitors?
Over the past few weeks, local news headlines have been dominated by complaints from some foreign tourists claiming that Thailand is becoming too expensive, while some Thais are being perceived as unfriendly — or even rude — to visitors.
If you come from a wealthy country like those in northern Europe, the US, Japan, Singapore, or even South Korea, where the average wage is several times higher than wages here, you should be complaining. Yes, things are probably somewhat cheaper in Ho Chi Minh City or Kathmandu than in Bangkok, but each destination has its own unique charm and appeal. Continued …
Dual pricing, who pays the price?
Dual-pricing, where foreigners pay more to enter certain places than local visitors, is common at major destinations in Thailand. When the double standard system blurs into confusion and exploitation, it could damage the country’s tourism.
This episode of ‘Why Bangkok: Dual Pricing, Who Pays The Price?’ explores the complexity of the double pricing system to find common ground between charging a nominal fee and exploiting the system to deliberately charge a higher price. Video …
Global Wellness Institute Releases New Data on Thailand’s Fast-Growing $42.7 Billion Wellness Market
Thailand’s wellness market expanded from $38.8 billion in 2023 to $42.7 billion in 2024. According to the latest Global Wellness Economy: Country Ranking Report by GWI, Thailand ranked #7 among the world’s top 25 wellness markets for growth between 2023 and 2024, achieving an impressive 10.1% increase.
In 2024, Thailand maintained its position as the world’s 24th largest wellness economy, ranking 9th in the Asia-Pacific region. The country is ranked 15th globally for wellness tourism, where spending surged by 36.4% between 2023 and 2024 — one of the fastest growth rates worldwide — bringing the market to $14 billion. Continued …
Tomorrowland Thailand expected to generate 5.5 billion baht in first year
Tomorrowland Thailand, the iconic electronic music festival, will debut in Pattaya this December. The event, organized by TAT, WE Are One World, and the Belgian Embassy, is expected to generate significant economic value, with over 5.5 billion baht projected in its first year alone, and 30 billion baht over the next five years.
The event will take place Dec. 11-13 at Wisdom Valley, in Chonburi, bringing a new international festival experience to Thailand. The event will feature six major stages, including the legendary Mainstage, and exclusive first-time showcases in Asia, including the CORE and Freedom stages. Continued …
Etihad Airways to debut Airbus A380 to Bangkok in October
Etihad Airways has announced it will bring its flagship Airbus A380 to Bangkok for the first time this October, increasing capacity on one of its most popular leisure routes. The airline will join four other carriers serving the destination with the superjumbo.
The airline’s A380 aircraft will operate on it’s evening daily service between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Bangkok (BKK). In its announcement, Etihad states that the A380’s launch, timed for the peak winter travel season, will support strong air travel demand between Thailand, the Middle East, and Europe. Continued …
Thailand’s salt making on the decline
The declining number of traditional salt-making activities in the region can be blamed on several factors, chief of which is the decreasing number of farmers who are interested in continuing the industry.
Many of them have left the traditional salt-making business and shifted to other trades and occupations, including farming, cattle-raising, and gardening, while a significant number have gone over to the tourism sector. Continued …
The best time to visit Thailand depends on where you go
Thailand is every wanderer’s dream: temples rising into brilliant blue skies, tuk-tuks zipping past street carts sizzling with spice, and tropical beaches that seem to glow at sunset. But because the kingdom stretches from misty northern hills to two distinct coastal systems, deciding when to go is almost as important as where you go.
The best time to visit Thailand depends on your destination, your travel style, and what weather you’re hoping to experience during your trip. Thailand’s climate is broadly divided into three main seasons: cool and dry, hot and dry, and the wet or monsoon season. Continued …
5 hidden gems in lesser-known cities in Thailand
Secondary cities — less-visited provinces that are not major tourist hotspots and typically attract fewer than four million visitors a year — are gaining popularity among Thai and foreign travelers looking to avoid crowds and seek new experiences.
The Kasikorn Research Center forecasts that the share of Thai domestic trips to secondary cities will edge up to 41.4% in 2025, from 41.3% in the first five months of the year, marking a sharp 32.3% rise from the same period in 2019 (pre-Covid-19). Continued …
A Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao — Thailand’s Tiny Gulf Escape
When a destination is as affordable as it is beautiful, it will always make a compelling case for a relaxing holiday. For many people, that means heading to Thailand, specifically the Gulf of Thailand, where well-trodden islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan offer the ideal combination of stunning beaches, great dining, and luxury stays. Yet, it pays to keep your expectations in check.
In 2023, Koh Samui received 3.54 million travelers — a challenge for most destinations, let alone an island that measures just 25 kilometers from point to point. It’s a similar story on Koh Phangan, with an estimated four million annual visitors. Of course, serene pockets still exist, but finding them requires more than a little careful consideration. Continued …
Australian tourist dies from beating in Phuket, Swedish suspect detained
A 29-year-old Swedish man of Turkish descent was arrested by Phuket police yesterday over the assault and death of a 58-year-old Australian tourist in Patong on Wednesday. Alan Roger Joliffe was knocked to the ground by a blow from the suspect at about 5 pm. He died at 10.23 pm despite medical efforts, prompting a police investigation and manhunt. Continued …
- Immigration Police Arrest Two on Interpol Red Notices – Continued …
- Russian Man Arrested in Phangan Drug Bust – Continued …
- Chinese Man Held at Don Mueang Over VAT Fraud – Continued …
- CCTV Catches Foreign Woman Calmly Stealing Suitcase in Phuket – Continued …
- Tourist Leaves After Claiming Theft, Rejects CCTV Review – Continued …
US AI boom faces electric shock
Technology giants, including Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta, have in recent months announced plans to spend over US$600 billion on AI in 2026 alone. The investment wave has already fueled unease among some investors about the profitability of this strategy. They have reason to be worried, as the ambitious US AI expansion plans are likely to be hobbled by severe power-infrastructure bottlenecks, including turbine shortages, slow grid expansion, and regulatory red tape. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Thailand will enforce a ban on alcohol sales for Makha Bucha Day, which falls on March 3 this year. According to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, sales are prohibited on specific Buddhist holidays.
Thailand’s housing market in 2025 was like a ship battling rough seas all year, only beginning to see a glimmer of light in the final quarter. Data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) show that in Q4 2025, the market started to recover quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) after short-term stimulus measures, or a “Quick Big Win”, including cuts to transfer and mortgage registration fees and relaxed loan-to-value (LTV) criteria.
The Bank of Thailand says the cycle of policy rate cuts has ended, with yesterday’s reduction deemed sufficient to support the Thai economy. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 4-2 yesterday to cut the policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 1%, effective immediately.
Thai rice exports fell by 17.5% in January compared with the same month last year, as a strong baht reduced the country’s price competitiveness. Export volume totaled 530,287 tons, down from 643,144 tons a year earlier. Export value dropped to B9.707 billion, a 30.7% decrease.
U-Tapao Airport project to kick off on April 3
Thailand’s overall border and transit trade in January reached a total value of 161.1 billion baht, a 10.9% increase year-on-year, with China remaining a leading transit market, said deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana.
Lazada Thailand is shifting its strategy to “confidence commerce”, prioritizing trust and reliability over price or delivery speed. The strategy aims to strengthen LazMall in response to the continued growth of Thailand’s e-commerce market.
Your vape just got you arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport. You thought it was fine, legal in your home country, tucked discreetly in your carry-on. But Thailand does not care if what you bring is legal back home. The customs officer is now holding your device, citing a 2014 import ban, and you are facing up to 10 years in prison and a 500,000 baht fine.
Thailand’s coffee landscape is being rewritten. Once seen mainly as a local staple or bulk commodity, Thai coffee is evolving into a globally recognized premium product.
Thailand recorded 839 fire hotspots Saturday, according to satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), with more than half detected in forest areas. The figures, gathered by the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system, underline continued concerns over haze and PM2.5 pollution.
The Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital at Mahidol University has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) program to interpret lung and chest X-rays with accuracy above 95%, comparable to specialist radiologists. The system has already been used in more than 500,000 real patient cases. It can deliver results in under 10 seconds per case, significantly speeding up diagnosis.
Police in Songkhla arrested a Thai man for beating and burning a Siberian Husky on Feb. 13. The suspect said he acted in retaliation after the dog attacked his rooster.
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
The Thai Chamber of Commerce has urged the government to accelerate trade negotiations with the United States after President Donald Trump announced an increase in the global import duty from 10% to 15%.
Senior U.S. officials have confirmed that President Donald Trump’s defeat at the U.S. Supreme Court over import tariffs will not cause trade agreements negotiated with U.S. allies to collapse. The officials were defending the administration’s aggressive trade policy.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has approved a 579,135-million-baht investment framework for fiscal year 2027, advancing three major rail projects, including double-track lines, Red Line extensions, and the Thai–Chinese high-speed railway Phase 2.
A new social media trend has gone viral as foreign tourists conclude their visits to Thailand by posting “Thank you Thailand” videos, drawing widespread attention online. The clips show visitors bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed accounts of their trips.
AllClear, a UK insurance company, has revealed research showing that taxi scams can occur anywhere and at any time, particularly when visitors appear unfamiliar with local fares. Since Decembe, the travel insurer has analyzed more than 450 Reddit posts and over 30,000 comments discussing taxi scams to identify the countries attracting the most complaints.
Pattaya’s beachfront has returned to a lively, international atmosphere as Thailand’s peak tourism season gathers pace, with large numbers of foreign visitors flocking to the city each day. A recent on-site survey by reporters found beaches and public spaces busy with overseas tourists, underscoring renewed momentum in Thailand’s tourism recovery — particularly in major destinations favored by international travelers.
Phuket has secured three major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events in 2026, reinforcing its status as a world-class meetings destination and advancing global agendas on sustainability, wellness, and diversity.
Soon enough, it appears the comfort of Thailand will be as marked up as any other run-of-the-mill overseas getaway. Price gouging and skyrocketing hotel rates are, of course, obvious reasons why tourists may be reconsidering spending the Thai baht. But the shift seems intentional.
The world’s most liveable countries tend to share a similar mix of strengths: impressive architecture, thoughtful urban planning, and cultures shaped by artistic expression. Creating a “liveable” destination is not necessarily tied directly to GDP or military power; instead, a sustained focus on design can play a meaningful role in improving quality of life.
Facing a fabulous ocean isn’t enough these days for an ambitious coastline. A glittery tag, like Gold, Sapphire, Emerald or d’Azure, is a branding imperative. Thailand came up with a real winner for its Gulf shoreline – the Royal Coast. And then forgot to tell the world.
Thailand will enter its hot season on Sunday. Summer storms could start right away and temperatures in some northern provinces may reach a peak above 42 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department.
The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (NDPMC) has ordered all provinces to step up preparedness to prevent and address drought in 2026, stressing efficient water management — especially securing reserves for household consumption. Provinces have been instructed to draw up contingency plans and survey backup water sources to minimize impacts on the public.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has issued a warning to the public about a fraudulent Facebook page using its initials to trick individuals into paying for driving licenses without the need for exams or in-person applications.
The government has ordered nationwide enforcement of stricter firearm regulations, instructing registrars to more rigorously scrutinize gun license applications and suspending the issuance of carry permits.
Thailand is ranked ninth globally for online fraud losses, with more than 27 billion baht lost in 2025 and victims suffering average losses of 37,000 baht per person. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has warned that cybercrime will become more complex in 2026, particularly through the use of AI Deepfake technology.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has reported on the progress of the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027). Particularly in the first two years of the plan, despite efforts to drive various initiatives, the distribution of economic opportunities across sectors has not effectively reduced regional disparities, especially in addressing poverty.
Yesterday, the Department of Tourism, through its Thailand Film Office, participated with an exhibition booth at the European Film Market 2026 (EFM 2026) in Berlin. The aim was to promote Thailand’s potential as an international filming destination, while pushing for continued foreign film production in Thailand to generate sustained income for the country.
Siamese freshwater crocodiles released in Kaeng Krachan
Thailand’s automotive industry is navigating its most profound transformation in 0 years, as the nation moves away from its traditional reliance on internal combustion engines (ICE). While the country remains the “Detroit of Asia” and holds a prestigious production rank of 10th globally, its domestic market was historically defined by the dominance of 1-ton pickup trucks.
On the 30th floor of the Chartered Square building in downtown Bangkok, the low-key office of Skyhub Technologies serves as a nexus for a burgeoning and contentious trade. The space, rented out by a serviced office provider, is visited only rarely by the company’s sole director and occasionally by Chinese nationals, according to building staff who asked not to be identified speaking about clients. 
The Hua Hin property market is emerging as a relative bright spot in Thailand’s challenging real estate sector, supported by sustained foreign demand that is helping to offset weak domestic purchasing power.
The Department of Disease Control (DDC), in collaboration with the Department of Corrections, visited a prison to investigate an Mpox outbreak following a reported fatality. Most recently, two additional close contacts tested positive.
A group of foreign residents in Pattaya has lodged a complaint with the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) after allegedly losing more than 300 million baht in a fraudulent gold-trading investment scheme branded “King Power Gold”.
Thailand’s Industrial Confidence Index rose marginally to 88.7 in January, up from 88.2 in December, as the manufacturing sector returned to full swing following the New Year holiday and demand picked up ahead of the Lunar New Year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Thai hotel operators are forecasting stable foreign tourist arrivals in 2026, particularly from short-haul markets excluding China, while urging the government to strengthen safety measures and boost traveler confidence.
Thailand is steadily cementing its reputation as one of the leading global destinations for medical tourism, attracting millions of international patients each year with its high-quality healthcare services, affordability, and attractive recovery options.
Two listed firms, PTT Oil and Retail (OR) and Central Plaza Hotel (Centel), announced a joint venture that will run budget hotels at PTT petrol stations. OR, oil trade flagship of national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc, reported on Tuesday night that its board of directors approved the establishment of the joint venture.
Chiang Mai International Airport has recorded a new post-Covid high in passenger traffic, with daily numbers surpassing 36,000, as airlines added 69 extra and charter flights to accommodate Lunar New Year demand.
Puphaman National Park, located in Loei and Khon Kaen provinces, has called on the public to stop feeding wild elephants by leaving fruit and other edible items for them, warning that such well-intentioned acts could ultimately harm the animals and increase the risk of human-elephant conflict.
Hua Hin City Municipality has stepped up its sexual health education efforts ahead of Valentine’s Day, holding a campaign on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention for local secondary school students.
Addressing economic problems tops the public’s wish list for a new government led by the Bhumjaithai Party, with measures to reduce the cost of living ranking highest among expectations, according to a KPI poll released yesterday.
The Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) has issued new guidelines for the Trade Competition Act of 2017, expected to be published in the Royal Gazette next month, aiming to curb unfair trade practices and prevent monopolistic behavior in multi-sided platform businesses, with a focus on e-commerce.
Tourism operators are urging the government to reform law enforcement and regulation, as businesses and tourists suffer from worsening bribery issues, hampering the nation’s tourism reputation.
There is a type of foreigner in Thailand most tourists never notice. They don’t hang out in sports bars, don’t argue online about beer prices, and don’t complain that “Thailand isn’t what it used to be.” You won’t find them on Soi 6 or Walking Street, and if you do pass them somewhere local, you might not even realize they’re foreigners at all.
Bangkok is famous for many things – incredible street food, stunning temples, and a wellness scene that draws visitors from around the world. With so many spas scattered across the city, finding the right spa package in Bangkok can feel overwhelming.
Chiang Mai food tour: Must-try eats, street food, hidden cafes
Discover Kaeng Ko’s sunken temple and giant rain tree in Lamphun
The US military is preparing for the possibility of extended operations lasting weeks against Iran, if President Donald Trump orders an attack, according to two US officials. This raises the stakes significantly in the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran. 
The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) is holding its first networking event of 2026 in Hua Hin, hosted at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
A family’s day in Thailand can change in an instant when an accident sends a child to the emergency room, with medical bills rising beyond USD 10,000 within hours. While Thailand appeals to many expat families for its safety, lifestyle, and education options, healthcare costs can be high, especially at private hospitals.
Recently, a couple posted on the social media forum about their experience near Chiang Mai. They found a puppy being bullied by other strays and felt compelled to help. With only two days before leaving the northern province and embarking on a two-week trip around Thailand, they wondered whether bringing the dog to the US was feasible within their timeframe.
The prices of computers and some IT products have skyrocketed as a result of rising rates for memory chips in the global market. Memory chip prices have increased by 80%-90% quarter-on-quarter in 2026, according to the February issue of Memory Price Tracker, marking an unprecedented surge.
A cluster of nine earthquakes measuring between 1.9 and 3.2 on the Richter scale struck tambon Khao Phang in Ban Ta Khun district of the southern province of Surat Thani between Wednesday and Thursday morning, the Department of Mineral Resources reported.
Many Thai small and medium-sized businesses — often run from homes, co-working spaces or cafés — face rising cyber risks that can be as harmful as a flooded shop or a lost delivery. From careless clicks to old software, a single mistake can stop a small team’s operations.
Over the past five years, both public and private universities have been setting up new faculties and launching courses linked to health, driven by the rapidly growing health economy from the trend of people paying more attention to health (wellness) to achieve longevity — living longer in good health.
Thailand’s position as a strategic hub for investors targeting the ASEAN region continues to strengthen, supported by record investment inflows, future-ready national strategies, major connectivity upgrades and rising international confidence in the country’s economic direction.
The highly volatile price swings of gold, which is impacting many Thais obsessed with the yellow metal, has forced the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to step in to regulate the large volume of trading affecting the baht’s rate.
More Chinese tourists are expected to travel overseas during next week’s extra-long Lunar New Year break, with top destinations ranging from Russia and Australia to Thailand and South Korea, travel agencies say, but Japan has lost some of its appeal.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported today that PM2.5 levels have surged, with the citywide average hitting 38.7 µg/m³ at 7 am, above the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst affected areas include Nong Chok, where PM2.5 levels hit 50.6 µg/m³.
Bangkok is set to strengthen its waste-management system with two new waste-to-energy power plants being developed by C&G Environmental Protection (Thailand). The projects, valued at 12 billion baht, are located in Nong Khaem in southwest Bangkok and On Nut on the eastern portion of the capital, said chief executive He Ning.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced yesterday the revocation of scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions are harmful to human health, along with the cancellation of vehicle exhaust emissions standards for cars and trucks, This move marks the largest cancellation of climate change policy by this administration to date, following the removal of regulations and actions aimed at promoting fossil fuel development while hindering the growth of clean energy. 
Ongoing efforts to derail multilateral tax cooperation lie at the heart of a global program to replace democratic governance with coercive rule by the extremely wealthy – or what we call 21st-century Caesarism. Any strategy to counter this program, therefore, must recognize that taxing extreme wealth is essential to saving democracy. 
Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete
PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.
Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.
As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.
Residents near the Chong Chom border crossing in Surin province say they are preparing for a possible third round of fighting, citing daily provocations by Cambodian troops and rising insecurity, with some households ready to evacuate. The comments came as uncertainty along the Thai–Cambodian border continued to affect local communities and cross-border trade.
A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.
Bhumjaithai has outlined an export policy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional markets and strengthening SMEs to compete globally.
Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.
Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed
The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.
Thailand’s tourism industry enters 2026 at a complex and delicately balanced moment. The long-anticipated rebound in Chinese arrivals has fallen short of official forecasts, while breaking news of a virus outbreak in India and Nepal now threatens to disrupt one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets. Together, these developments point to a tourism sector moving beyond recovery and into a period of structural adjustment.
Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.
I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms
Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too
They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.
What a difference a single year makes. The once-dominant push to radically reshape society to avert climate catastrophe has collapsed. Look at Davos – the talkfest long dominated by climate advocacy. That consensus has been abandoned by its once strongest proponents.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is holding the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
Two timebombs were defused at the Pattani bus terminal in Muang district yesterday after they were found hidden a toilet, with authorities saying they resembled previous finds at several petrol stations in the province.
The president of Thailand’s fifth-largest bank has acknowledged the country’s economic challenges following its recent characterization as the “sick man of Asia”, arguing the malaise requires deep structural reforms rather than temporary stimulus, while unveiling a strategy to bolster sustainable finance by 40% to 350 billion baht (US$10.1 billion) by 2030.
TikTok has confirmed its long-term investment plan in Thailand worth 270 billion baht, according to caretaker finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
Thailand’s Hat Yai picks up the pieces in wake of devastating floods
B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) is positioning clean energy as a game changer for Thailand’s energy transition, accelerating its push into renewables as the country and global industry move toward a low-carbon future.
Bitcoin sank in early Asia trading today, extending a selloff that had already erased all the gains booked by the token since US President Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory. The original cryptocurrency fell as much as 4.8% to a fresh low of US$60,033 this morning, after hours earlier plunging to its lowest level since October 2024, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. It later pared those losses and was up by more than 2% to over $64,400 by 9.12 am in Singapore. 
Australian undercover inspectors have found pubs fail to pour enough beer and other alcohol into customers’ glasses for nearly a third of the drinks they serve. The government sent “secret shopper” officials to 436 licensed venues across the country in October to check if they were filling glasses high enough. Preliminary findings showed 32% of the drinks they served failed to deliver the “correct amount”, said the National Measurement Institute’s audit report released this week. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will organize the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
The inaugural Hua Hin Ultra Marathon 2026 will take place on Saturday, May 23, marking the first time the city has hosted an ultra-distance running event of this scale. The race will start and finish at Rajabhakti Park and will offer four distances, ranging from a 10-kilometer evening run to a 100-kilometer ultra marathon.
Chiva-Som Hua Hin has been celebrated for its unique approach to wellness, commitment to excellence, and heartfelt care,. These awards recognize excellence not only in personal transformation but also in its pioneering commitment to corporate responsibility, environmental wellness, and strong local community engagement.
Small-scale egg farmers are facing a growing economic crisis after large commercial farms and wholesalers began selling eggs below average production costs, pushing market prices to unsustainable levels.
Thailand’s PTT Exploration and Production said Friday it acquired full ownership of Block A-18 in the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area from Chevron in a $450M deal. The Thai company said it signed the deal with Hess and Hess Asia Holdings, both now owned by Chevron following the recently closed merger deal with Hess.
Chinese New Year celebrations in Yaowarat, Bangkok, will be canceled during the mourning period for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, according to the Samphanthawong District Office yesterday.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is optimistic about sports tourism growth this year as it hosts the Amazing Muay Thai Festival this week, expecting more than 18,000 visitors.
The Woven Heritage of Thai Fabrics: Tradition Meets Modern Identity
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DOAE) has announced the establishment of 30 “Green Gain Hubs” across Thailand, aimed at tackling air pollution caused by agricultural burning. This initiative addresses the severe impact on public health, the economy, and the environment, and is also aimed at reducing the negative effects on agricultural production, including soil degradation, high production costs, and lower yields.
Thailand’s electric mass transit rail network in Bangkok and its surrounding areas is progressing according to the master plan. With a goal of 33 routes spanning 553.41 kilometers, the country is making significant strides in urban transport development.
Foreign man flags sea pollution off Jomtien Beach in Pattaya
Italy’s Trevi Fountain launched a new ticketing system yesterday, making the famous Rome landmark the latest tourist site to charge entry in a bid to raise funds and battle overcrowding. People posed in the sunshine in front of the Baroque masterpiece after paying the €2 (US1.68) fee to access the now largely crowd-free area next to the basin.