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Tuesday’s news-Oct 8

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Cha Am Beach ‘Fish Crowding’/Bluport Hua Hin: A multifaceted destination/WFFT seeks land for tigers/Black Mountain Asian tour event/Hua Hin Wine Expo/Thailand flood news: Flood alert for Bangkok/Heavy monsoon rains coming/Chiang Mai’s Ping River recedes/Hotel occupancy rate in Chiang Mai down/‘Ticking time bombs’/Invasive tilapia into tasty sauce/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Headline inflation quickens/Action sought on cheap Chinese imports/Casino bill faces overhaul/US-China tensions boost Thai economy/EVs Fuel Boom in Commercial Real Estate/FARM EXPO 2024/Thai Mangosteen Retains Global Market/New microelectronics plant/10,000 tech startups/New ASEAN pact/Tourism: Thai visa shake-up/Amazing Thailand is back/TAT seeks 10 million arrivals/Thailand Experience: Perfect Family Trip in Thailand/A Michelin culinary experience/Food With An Extra Kick Of Spice/Climate Thailand: Dammed in the Mekong/Plastic waste will surpass marine life/Hydrogen: The new hope/Potential in clean energy transition/PTT unveils ambitious strategy/MEA Energy Awards/EGCO Group to bid on solar projects/Raising tourist taxes for climate/International/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

Cha Am Beach Sees Rare ‘Fish Crowding’ Phenomenon as Locals Gather Seafood

Residents and tourists flocked to Cha Am Beach in Phetchaburi Province yesterday to catch various sea creatures washed ashore due to a phenomenon known locally as “nuea bia,” or “crowding water.”

Armed with nets and baskets, they collected blackfin seabass, cuttlefish, shrimp, and blue crabs, which had surfaced and were stranded along the beach. This bounty offered locals and visitors a rare opportunity to gather fresh seafood for meals. Continued …

Bluport Hua Hin: A multifaceted destination for MICE and tourism growth

Bluport Hua Hin’s transformation into a multifaceted destination blends retail, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities, cultural attractions, and wellness services. Khun Vajee KlomKliang, executive committee and VP marketing and business partner at Bluport Hua Hin, shares insights into the Proud Group’s vision for turning Hua Hin into a key player in Thailand’s tourism and business landscape. Video …

WFFT seeks land to expand tiger sanctuary

A vital tiger sanctuary has completely run out of space, and until it can be enlarged, tigers currently caged in awful zoos and circuses cannot be rescued. Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT), has an opportunity to expand its sanctuary by purchasing a piece of neighboring land – but it needs help.

Tigers like Susu, a Bengal tiger who was chained up for 15 years in Phuket Zoo in southern Thailand, woefully mistreated for human “entertainment”. Every day of those 15 years, she lived in anguish, locked up like a prisoner. Her “crime?” Being born in a country where animals are commodities, used to make money until they offer no more value to their owners. Continued …

Black Mountain Asian tour event Oct 17-20

Continued …

 

 

Hua Hin Wine Expo set for Nov 1

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Fresh flood alert for parts of Bangkok

City Hall on Monday warned people living along the Chao Phraya River in areas with no permanent barriers to prepare for flooding next week.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration said residents of areas prone to flooding due to lack of an embankment should move their belongings to high ground and keep a close watch on the river level from Oct. 14-23. Continued …

Heavy monsoon rains and thunderstorms to hit Thailand regions

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has sounded the alarm for the eastern and southern regions, warning that heavy monsoons are on the horizon. With a 60% to 70% chance of thunderstorms, locals are being advised to prepare for potential flash floods.

While Bangkok braces for its own thunderous downpours, those in the northern and northeastern regions can expect a rather cool start to their mornings. Continued …

Chiang Mai’s Ping River recedes, but downstream areas still at risk

Chiang Mai authorities announced that the Ping River, which had broken its banks and flooded the province earlier, has dropped to 3.85 meters, though downstream areas were still at risk of flooding. Muang Chiang Mai Municipality announced that the river’s level at the P1 measuring station by the Nawarat Bridge stood at 3.85 meters as of 10am on Monday.

The Chiang Mai Irrigation Office expected the water level to further drop to 3.7 meters by 3pm and said that if there was no more rain upstream, the Ping River should soon return to its normal level. Continued …

Hotel occupancy rate in Chiang Mai down 30%

Hotels in Chiang Mai saw the average occupancy rate decline by 30% over a three-day period of severe floods covering Oct. 4-6, which heavily impacted 1,500-2,000 rooms in the province.

La-iad Bungsrithong, board adviser for the Thai Hotels Assn., said the situation has been gradually improving since Monday, as many hotels in the affected areas had begun to clean up their properties once the floodwaters began to recede. Continued …

‘Ticking time bombs’: Experts warn of old buses, safety loopholes after deadly blaze

This month’s horrific school bus blaze, which claimed the lives of 20 children and three adults, has once again highlighted the safety crisis on Thai roads, ranked among the most dangerous in the world.

On Oct. 1, a bus carrying 44 passengers on a school trip from Uthai Thani to Ayutthaya and Nonthaburi caught fire on the outskirts Bangkok. This is not the first time that a bus has erupted in flames, causing mass fatalities in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand turns invasive tilapia into tasty sauce

Thailand’s Department of Fisheries has unveiled an innovative approach to combat the invasiv  blackchin tilapia by converting them into fermented fish sauce.

To tackle the spread of this species, which endangers commercially valuable fish stocks in nine provinces, the department will collaborate with local communities to process the blackchin tilapia into the popular condiment, according to department chief Bancha Sukkaew. Continued …

  • Thai Officers To Sue Chinese-Funded Project for Defying Construction Ban Sign – Continued …
  • Jet-ski joyrider in deep water after Patong Beach hit-and-run – Continued …
  • Russian Man Arrested at Phuket Airport, Accused of Helping Fugitive – Continued …
  • Luxembourger Arrested for Illegally Guiding Tourists on Rattanakosin Island – Continued …
  • Chinese Fraudster Evading Arrest with Face-lift Nabbed in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Danish man stabs himself with medical knife in Bangkok hospital – Continued …
Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Headline inflation quickens in September

Thailand’s annual headline inflation quickened in September due mainly to higher prices of diesel and some vegetables, the Commerce Ministry said on Monday, and was still below the central bank’s target range of 1% to 3%.

The headline consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.61% in September from a year earlier, after August’s annual increase of 0.35%, and missed a forecast rise of 0.80% in a Reuters poll. Continued …

Thai firms call for urgent and robust action on cheap Chinese imports as manufacturing shrinks

Business leaders fear the government lacks the mettle to follow through on promises made before the new government was formed regarding cheap Chinese goods being dumped on the Thai market. In particular, they are concerned about a recent tête-à-tête between the new Ministry of Commerce Pichai Naripthaphan and the Chinese ambassador to Thailand.

That meeting appears to sidetrack the pressing issue facing many small Thai firms, which is cutthroat competition from China across a growing list of sectors. Indeed, it is increasingly clear that Thailand’s trade and industry policy is out of touch with small, struggling private sector firms. Continued …

Thailand’s casino bill faces overhaul

The Fiscal Policy Office has completed public hearings on the entertainment complex bill and will submit its results to the Cabinet soon, a well-informed source said.

The source explained that the FPO has categorized the results of the hearing into 45 main points, which it will ask the Cabinet to consider and select for improving the draft. Earlier, the House of Representatives had studied and concluded that the government should allow entertainment complexes with casinos to be set up in the kingdom to attract foreigners and generate more revenue. Continued …

Thailand gets into gear as US-China tensions boost its economy

As the United States and China continue their economic tug-of-war, Thailand has emerged as an unexpected beneficiary on the global stage. The Southeast Asian nation is poised to become a formidable player in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, a development that could reshape the automotive landscape in the region and beyond.

This revelation came to light during the 4th Sweden-Thailand Sustainable Development Forum, a cornerstone event of the Sustainability Expo 2024 held in Bangkok. The forum, which ran from late September to early October, brought together a diverse array of experts and diplomats to tackle pressing environmental challenges. Continued …

Thailand’s Electric Vehicle Industry Fuels Boom in Commercial Real Estate

Thailand is set to become Southeast Asia’s leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing hub by 2030, with an anticipated $6.5 billion commercial real estate market according to JLL.

This growth is driven by ambitious government policies like the 30@30 initiative, aiming for 30% of vehicle production to be electric, alongside significant foreign investments, expected to reshape the real estate landscape. Continued …

FARM EXPO 2024 Emerges as Thailand’s Largest Indoor Agriculture Event

The FARM EXPO 2024 was Thailand’s biggest indoor agriculture expo, held at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center, featuring the latest advancements in farming equipment, agrotech solutions, and sustainable practices. Enhancing Thailand’s agriculture sector requires incorporating innovation and technology to boost farm productivity.

Video 

The expo brought together farmers, industry leaders, and technology innovators under one roof, showcasing the latest advancements in agriculture. Spanning over multiple halls, the event featured state-of-the-art farming equipment, cutting-edge agrotech solutions, and sustainable practices poised to revolutionize the agricultural sector. Continued …

Thai Mangosteen Retains Global Market; Growers Urged to Maintain Quality

The Commerce Ministry revealed that Thai mangosteen is still the world’s No. 1, earning 17 billion baht ($502 million) annually in exports. Orchard owners have been advised to maintain quality due to increasing competition.

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director of the Office of Trade Policy and Strategy (TPSO), Ministry of Commerce, disclosed the situation of Thai mangosteen exports in 2024. Currently, mangosteen is the fruit for which Thailand holds the world export championship, exporting 91% (including fresh and processed) and consuming only 9% domestically of the country’s total mangosteen production. Continued …

Big things expected from new microelectronics plant

Thailand’s first-ever silicon carbide wafer factory slated to start production in Lamphun province within the next two years will set a milestone for the country’s semiconductor industry, according to the Thai Microelectronics Center (TMEC), the national research and development unit of wafer fabrication.

TMEC senior researcher Wutthinan Jeamsaksiri said the factory in Lamphun Industrial Park aims to cater to the increased global demand for power electronics. Continued …

TSRI to help establish 10,000 tech startups

Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI) plans to contribute to the development of 10,000 new technology startups within two years.

The move is to drive the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups to serve the industries of artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles (EVs), and the bio-circular-green (BCG) economy, according to Dr. Sirirurg Songsivilai, chairman of the National Commission on Science, Research and Innovation. Continued …

New ASEAN pact set to transform regional trade, connectivity

ASEAN is on the cusp of entering a “golden age” driven by five key factors and a landmark digital economy agreement, said Jirayut Subsrisopa, founder and chief executive officer of Bitkub Capital Group Holdings.

Speaking at the ASEAN Economic Outlook 2025 seminar on Monday, Jirayut outlined how the upcoming ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) could inject up to US$2 trillion (66.88 trillion baht) into the region’s economy. Continued …

Thai visa shake-up: Southeast Asia consulates switch to e-visa only

Getting a Thai visa in Southeast Asia is about to become a high-tech affair. Starting next week, several Thai consulates across the region will be switching entirely to online e-visa applications, leaving traditional walk-ins a thing of the past.

In a surprise move, consulates in Vietnam (Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kota Bharu), and Cambodia (Phnom Penh) will close their doors to in-person visa applications. Some of these have already shut their consular services in anticipation of the e-visa launch, scheduled for next Tuesday (Oct. 22). Continued …

Amazing Thailand is back

The government has launched “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year 2025” alongside six global tourism companies to help attract more visitors and meet its targets.

Jirayu Huangsap, an adviser to the prime minister, told a press briefing on Monday that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held a roundtable meeting with executives from the six leading firms – Grab, Agoda, Expedia, IHG, Marriott International and Trip.com Group – to engage them in the plan. Continued …

TAT seeks 10 million arrivals in final quarter

The fourth quarter will require at least 10.5 million foreign tourist arrivals, or a 25% year-on-year increase, in order to reach the 36.7 million tourists targeted for 2024, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said attracting at least 3.5 million foreign arrivals per month during the last three months of the year remains achievable, attributed to numerous promotions, events and an increase in seat capacity, particularly from new routes. Continued … 

How to Plan the Perfect Family Trip in Thailand

Thailand is one of the best family destinations in Asia, with opportunities to see elephants, go kayaking, ride in tuk-tuks, stay in floating villas, and relax on palm-shaded beaches.

The country’s robust tourism, infrastructure, family-friendly hotels, just-for-kids experiences, and widely spoken English are some of the reasons I recommend it for family adventures. Here are some standouts. Continued …

A Michelin culinary experience on Thailand bus tour

Launched in 2018, the Thai Bus Food Tour allows tourists to savor Thai cuisine from renowned Michelin restaurants while exploring Bangkok’s iconic landmarks.

The tour’s signature double-decker bus features dining tables, seating, food preparation areas, and large glass windows, providing passengers with unobstructed views of the city. The bus accommodates up to 32 passengers. Continued …

Thai Restaurants In Bangkok That Serve Food With An Extra Kick Of Spice

Thai cuisine isn’t monolithic in nature, and spans a multitude of different flavors throughout various regions. The southern part of the country is especially recognizable for its predilection toward more potent, spicy flavors. If you’re ever curious to venture forth and explore, then try out the best southern Thai restaurants in Bangkok.

Thai food varies a lot throughout the regions, but the spice is what holds it together. The south of Thailand gets a lot of influences from Malaysia and Indonesia, and the abundance of fresh ingredients grown locally also add another dimension to the dishes. From the rich yellow curry to the heat-filled khua kling, these southern Thai restaurants in Bangkok bring in all the right notes that have our tastebuds dancing straight to the city. Continued …

Dammed in the Mekong: Averting an Environmental Catastrophe

Environmental degradation caused by infrastructure development in the Mekong basin, especially large-scale hydropower and sand mining, threatens the region’s ecological balance and the livelihoods of 70 million people. Over the past 30 years, developers have largely ignored the natural ecosystems’ environmental and social value, while the emergence of new infrastructure and industries has deepened inequality within states.

None of the Mekong basin states – China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam – has achieved a satisfactory balance between the imperatives of economic growth and environmental preservation, while climate change has resulted in higher temperatures and severe droughts, exacerbating the harmful effects of new infrastructure. Continued …

Plastic waste will surpass marine life by 2050

Plastic pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century. Its pervasive presence, from the depths of the oceans to the peaks of the highest mountains, reminds humanity’s unchecked consumption of single-use plastics and the inadequate systems in place to manage plastic waste.

Globally, an estimated 400 million tons of plastic are produced every year, and roughly half of this is for single-use items such as packaging, bottles and bags. Alarmingly, over 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in oceans annually, according to the United Nations. This accumulation of plastic in the environment has devastating effects on marine ecosystems. Continued …

Hydrogen: The new hope for clean energy in Thailand

As the world faces an environmental crisis, clean energy becomes a key to a sustainable future. One promising source of energy is hydrogen, which is being developed in Thailand to transition toward an environmentally friendly energy system and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Video 

Hydrogen is an abundant element that can be used as a clean fuel because its combustion releases only water and oxygen, causing no pollution. It also serves as an energy storage medium, capable of generating electricity through fuel cells, helping to strengthen energy security for the future. Continued …

Gulf Energy sees potential in Thailand’s clean energy transition

Gulf Energy Development has highlighted Thailand’s potential for growth in clean energy and its role in enhancing the country’s energy security, its chief asset management and investment officer, Smith Banomyong, said on Monday.

He delivered this perspective and outlined the company’s vision at the “ASEAN Economic Outlook 2025” seminar, organized by Krungthep Turakij to celebrate its 37th anniversary. Despite Thailand’s relatively modest 2% economic growth compared with regional powerhouses like Vietnam, Banomyong highlighted significant opportunities in the kingdom’s service sector. Continued … 

PTT unveils ambitious strategy for sustainable growth in ASEAN

PTT, Thailand’s top energy company, has unveiled its strategy for driving sustainable growth in the ASEAN region through carbon-capture storage (CCS) and hydrogen technologies.

At the “ASEAN Economic Outlook 2025” forum on Monday, PTT’s CEO and President Kongkrapan Intarajang outlined the company’s vision for balancing energy security with environmental responsibility in the rapidly developing region. Continued …

125 venues in Greater Bangkok win MEA Energy Awards

The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) recognized the sustainable energy efficiency practices implemented by 125 establishments in Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Samut Prakan at the 2024 MEA Energy Awards ceremony on Friday.

The 125 winners, including one university, two schools, four hospitals, four hotels, 46 convenience stores, six hypermarts, nine shopping malls, 38 offices and 15 cafes, were chosen from a shortlist of 194 participants. Continued …

EGCO Group to participate in bidding for over 10 solar projects

Electricity Generating Public Co., or EGCO Group, will participate in the second phase of renewable energy bidding (RE Big Lot) called by the Energy Regulatory Commission of Thailand (ERC) and enter more than 10 ground-mounted solar projects into the bid.

The company’s participation in the RE Big Lot bidding is in line with EGCO Group’s goal to increase the proportion of renewable energy capacity up to 30% by 2030, which will support Thailand’s transformation toward a low-carbon society and attract foreign investment through clean energy promotion. Continued …

Many destinations are raising tourist taxes, but are they accomplishing their goal?

Travelers eager to explore ancient ruins and relax on beaches with some of the bluest waters in the world will now face a new tax in Greece. Unlike a visa fee or general excise tax, this charge is specifically aimed at addressing climate change.

Earlier this year, the Mediterranean country announced it was introducing a new accommodations tax called the “resilience fee for the climate crisis,” only to be applied during peak travel season of March through October. When in effect, it nearly doubles the former accommodations tax. Continued …

Insurers prepare for more global disasters

The insurance industry is facing the consequences of growing geopolitical conflicts, as well as natural disasters, prompting insurers to prepare for greater business risks, according to participants at the 23rd conference of the Association of Insurers and Reinsurers of Developing Countries (AIRDC). Continued …

Fighting Myanmar’s patriarchy, one all-male panel at a time

A panel discussion in Myanmar about female leadership had two speakers. Both were male. Another talk, about how to stay safe from the military government’s deadly bombing campaign against civilians, featured four men and no women. Yet another, an event to raise funds for rebel forces, gathered more than a dozen speakers online, all of them men. Continued …

China’s travel industry faces reality check of ‘worst ever’ season

Over the summer and Mid-Autumn Festival peak travel seasons, China’s major cities buzzed with tourists, with travel data painting a picture of a vibrant recovery. However, the reality for many in the tourism industry tells a different story, with operators lamenting the peak seasons as the “worst ever”. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

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, cha am, chiang mai, exports, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Oct 1

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Feedback/Aviyana Hua Hin resort opens/Nakhon Pathom-Cha Am motorway/Thailand braces for savage storms/Dog Attacks Prompt Re-evaluation/Russell Crowe to Star in Muay Thai Film/Planned electric train lines/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Heavy Economic Burden from Storms/Growth Surge from Digital Cash/Funding in place for 2nd phase/Business debt is as high as household debt/Highest revenue for Thai Treasury/New business registrations increase/BOI downplays stronger baht/Google to invest US$1 billion/Jump in exports to China/Exports seen up 2%/4 firms found using Thai nominees/Tourism: Surge in Chinese arrivals/Challenge for Budget Travelers/Maya Bay to Reopen/Cutie ‘Moo Deng’ woos tourists/Phuket Wins Two Festival Awards/Thailand Experience: Expats pan Thai street food/Vegetarian Festival in Bangkok/Two restaurants in Krabi and Koh Samui/7 best family resorts in Phuket/Climate Thailand: Climate change is making typhoons worse/Food industry embracing sustainability/Push toward green economy/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: Train to Hua Hin

“Interesting article about the bargain trains. Unfortunately, as anyone who has ever tried to get a train from Hua Hin to Bangkok knows, there is only one train a day which leaves at a useful time, takes a reasonable time, and goes to the central station: Train #40, 14.36 from Hua Hin. And that is often booked up in advance. So little chance to ever go to the new HH station.” – AB

Aviyana Hua Hin resort opens in Cha Am

Aviyana Hua Hin officially opened its doors otoday with a ceremony that underscored the resort’s commitment to merging opulence with nature. Situated along the serene Cha Am coastline, this luxury resort is set to become a premier destination for corporate retreats, events, and upscale getaways.

The event was marked by the presence of key industry leaders and distinguished guests. Sumalee Khurana, managing director of Aviyana Hua Hin, led the ceremony with a speech that highlighted the resort’s vision. Continued …

Nakhon Pathom-Cha Am motorway due by 2031

Continued …

Thailand braces for savage storms

Thailand is on high alert as the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) sounds the alarm for severe weather ahead. Expect torrential downpours, raging thunderstorms, and fierce winds to lash various regions, including the bustling capital, Bangkok. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and prepare for potential flash floods and landslides.

The TMD has forecast that the upper part of Thailand will experience highly volatile weather over the next 24 hours. Thunderstorms, gusty winds, and heavy to very heavy rainfall are expected in the northern, northeastern, central, and eastern regions of the country, as well as in Bangkok and its surrounding areas. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Fatal Dog Attacks in Thailand Prompt Legal Re-evaluation

Two fatal dog attacks in Thailand last week have sparked nationwide outrage, prompting renewed calls to review the country’s pet ownership and public safety laws.

Under Thai law, the responsibility lies with the dog owner when their pet causes harm. According to Section 433 of the Thai Civil and Commercial Code, dog owners are required to compensate the injured party for medical expenses and other related costs. This civil liability ensures financial support for the victims of dog attacks. Continued …

Russell Crowe to Star in Film Promoting Thailand and Muay Thai Globally

ONE Championship boss Chatri Sityodtong has expressed excitement for the upcoming Hollywood film “The Beast In Me,” starring Russell Crowe. The movie, which prominently features ONE Championship and Muay Thai, aims to showcase Thailand and its martial art on the global stage.

Production will commence this December and will culminate in a pivotal scene at a ONE Friday Fights event on Jan. 24 at Bangkok’s Impact Arena, according to Chatri. Continued …

Planned electric train lines ‘won’t affect’ historical sites

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has ordered all agencies to ensure all future plans to build electric train networks outside Bangkok will not affect important historical sites in inner-city areas.

The order was made in response to the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand’s plan to build electric rail networks in other major cities, such as Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phuket and Phitsanulok, at a combined cost of 77 billion baht. Continued …

  • British man kills Aussie with punch in drunken row outside Pattaya hotel – Continued …
  • Thai Actress’s Brother Refuses Settlement with Russian Attacker – Continued …
  • Two Syrians Arrested at Phuket Airport with Fake UAE Passports – Continued …

Thailand’s Economy Faces Heavy Economic Burden from Tropical Storms

Thailand is grappling with escalating economic challenges as heavy rains and flooding wreak havoc across its provinces. Notably, tourist hotspots like Chiang Mai and Phuket are suffering, threatening the national economy.

In northern Chiang Rai, flash floods and landslides triggered by Super Cyclone Yagi have inflicted significant damage. This storm, having ravaged Vietnam and bringing severe rains to Myanmar and Thailand, has left an indelible mark. The Federation of Thai Industries estimates an economic toll of up to 27 billion baht from the initial flooding wave. Continued …

Thai Chamber Predicts GDP Growth Surge from Digital Cash Stimulus

The first phase of the 2024 economic stimulus program, which distributes a 10,000-baht stipend to vulnerable groups, has commenced. The program, totaling 145 billion baht, is expected to have an immediate impact, as recipients are free to spend the cash, particularly on essential goods and local services.

Dr. Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC), noted that surveys from the UTCC and the government show most recipients plan to use the funds for necessities, while others may invest in tools or pay off informal debts. He expects the stimulus to circulate through the economy two to three times. Continued …

Funding in place for 2nd phase of digital handout

Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul has confirmed that the government has sufficient funding for the second phase of the digital wallet program, with a budget of 180 billion baht having already been allocated.

He said the first phase of the cash handout scheme that targeted 14.5 million people, including state welfare cardholders and people with disabilities, used a 145-billion-baht budget, which has already been transferred. Continued …

Business debt is now nearly as high as household debt, manufacturing faces contraction

The head of one of Thailand’s key economic agencies highlighted another critical problem for the economy. In the course of explaining a projected contraction in manufacturing for 2024, Worawan Chitarun of the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) underlined the sky-high level of business debt acting like a weight on economic development.

In short, this is in addition to household debt. Presently, Thailand’s level of business debt is 87.6% of GDP, nearly the same as the country’s household debt level, which is 90.8% of GDP. Continued …

Fiscal 2024 sees highest revenue for Thai Treasury Dept in 91 years

The Treasury Department reported total earnings of 14.38 billion baht for fiscal 2024, making this the highest revenue earned in 91 years, Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul said on Monday. He noted that this figure represents a 57.9% increase from the previous fiscal year’s revenue and is 25.4% higher than projected.

Paopoom attributed this surge in revenue to the department’s expedited bidding and leasing contracts for its properties, as well as the extension of contracts with major tenants. Additionally, the department benefited from land expropriated by key state agencies and the sale of commemorative coins. Continued …

New business registrations increase slightly

The Commerce Ministry is upbeat about new business registrations this year, driven by the government’s stimulus measures and the rebound in the tourism sector.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Business Development Department, said new business registrations for the first eight months of 2024 rose by 0.42% to 61,819, with combined registered capital of 186 billion baht, down 60.3%, compared to the corresponding period last year. Continued …

BOI downplays stronger baht’s impact, FTI warns of struggle

While the Board of Investment chief does not say the rising baht would affect foreign investments, a Federation of Thai Industries’ vice president disagrees, saying it would severely affect investments in exports.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, BOI secretary-general, said the strengthening baht had little impact on foreign investors’ decision to use Thailand as their manufacturing hub. Instead, he said, a strong baht would provide a window of opportunity for foreign investors to import machines and tools for expanding their manufacturing capacity. Continued …

Thailand welcomes Google’s US$1 billion investment in data center

Thailand today welcomed a major investment from the tech giant Google, which announced plans to invest US$1 billion to build a data center and cloud region in the country. The firm stated that the investment aims to meet growing cloud demand and support artificial intelligence adoption in Southeast Asia.

According to a Deloitte study on the project, the investment is expected to create approximately 14,000 jobs annually until 2029. This is a significant boost, especially as technology continues to reshape economies and job markets globally. Continued …

Thailand eyes jump in exports to China

Thailand should capitalize on the growing e-commerce industry to sell more products in the Chinese market, while strengthening cooperation with Beijing on exports, Thai Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan says.

After a recent meeting with the Chinese ambassador to Thailand, Pichai emphasized the longstanding friendship between the two countries, saying economic collaboration will bring long-term benefits to both sides. Continued …

Exports seen up 2% this year but strong baht a challenge

Thailand’s exports are expected to rise 2% this year, the upper end of a previous forecast of 1% to 2% growth, but the rapidly strengthening baht could be a challenge for the rest of the year, the Thai National Shippers’ Council said today.

The baht reached its highest level in 31 months this week, trading at 32.125 against the greenback. Year-to-date, the baht has risen 5.2%, making it the region’s second best-performing currency after Malaysia’s ringgit. Continued …

Just 4 of 26,000 firms found using Thai nominees

Only four out of more than 26,000 businesses in Thailand inspected by the Business Development Department were found to be illegally operating through nominees, while 64 others were found to have violated the accounting law.

Department Director-general Auramon Supthaweethum on Monday said that her department recently inspected 26,019 businesses across four sectors, including tourism and related services, real estate, hotels and resorts, and logistics, in a bid to find foreign-owned businesses run through Thai nominees. Continued …

Surge in Chinese arrivals, tourism income expected during Golden Week

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that between 132,000 and 183,000 Chinese tourists will enter Thailand during China’s Golden Week which runs from today until Oct. 7.

This estimation of arrivals is 57%-144% higher than the same period last year, TAT said today, adding that it believed these visitors would generate income of 3.71 to 5.18 billion baht during the period, an increase of 58%-121% year on year. Continued …

Thailand’s Rising Costs: A Challenge for Budget Travelers

The bahts’ price hike is due to the Federal Reserve’s decision to cut interest rates in the United States. As a result, the Thai baht has strengthened against the U.S. dollar, putting pressure on Thailand’s central bank to follow suit. However, the central bank has been cautious about lowering interest rates because of economic uncertainties.

Now, the stronger baht has a direct impact on tourism spending. Travelers find that their money now doesn’t go as far as it used to, leading to reduced spending. According to the Tourism and Sports Minister of Thailand, the unfavorable exchange rates could hinder Thailand’s goal of reaching 3.5 trillion baht in tourism revenue for 2024. Continued …

Thailand’s Maya Bay to Reopen for Tourists tomorrow

Thailand’s famous Maya Bay, located in the southern province of Krabi, will reopen to visitors tomorrow after a two-month closure for environmental rehabilitation. The iconic bay, renowned globally from the Hollywood film “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, had been closed from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30 to allow natural restoration.

Attapon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, confirmed that Maya Bay, along with nearby Loh Samah Bay and Lor Kor Bay on the Phi Phi islands, will welcome tourists again. Continued …

Cutie ‘Moo Deng’ woos public, and tourists, to Si Racha, Chon Buri

The popularity of pygmy hippo “Moo Deng” has helped boost tourism in Si Racha and Chon Buri during the low season, with stronger tourist flows anticipated in October thanks to the school break.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo started live-streaming Moo Deng in September after recording more than 10,000 visitors at the zoo during weekends. The zoo reportedly earned 13 million baht during Sept. 11-19 from ticket sales. Continued …

Phuket Shines Globally with Two Prestigious Festival Awards

The year 2024 has been a golden year for Phuket, as the destination secured two prestigious accolades at the 2024 IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards, organized by the International Festivals & Events Assn. (IFEA) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.

Video

The “World Festival and Event City Award,” showcases Phuket Province’s readiness to host world-class events and festivals. In addition, the “Phuket Vegetarian Festival” received the prestigious “Grand Pinnacle,” the highest award given by the IFEA, the premier association supporting and enabling festival and event professionals worldwide. This award is considered the Oscars of the event industry. Continued …

Expats pan Thai street food: Old rancid oil. Cheap oil. Food dripping with oil.

“I don’t want anything fried on the street. The Thais use cheap oil that isn’t healthy. They tend to either burn the oils, which are usually vegetable oil, or fry the food but the oil is not hot enough. I told the GF not to bring home anything fried anymore. When I need sheets of paper towels just to sop up what drips from the food, it is too much.” – Gobbler

“Plus that awful stuff they call margarine that they use to cook pancakes, it needs no refrigeration and they leave the tub open. I don’t buy street food anymore, but occasionally I would like a pancake, but I won’t buy them sopping in that goo.” – brianthainess

(Editor: These are likely foreigners who came to Thailand at least partly for the food, and now they spend most of their money on Western food. Personally, we find Thai street food tasty, and not oily.)

Continued …

Vegetarian Festival from October 2-11 in Bangkok’s Chinatown

Bangkok’s Chinatown is gearing up to celebrate the annual Vegetarian Festival from Oct. 2-11. This year’s event will coincide with the sixth anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Birthday.

Under the theme “72 Blessed Birthdays”, the Vegetarian Festival will feature various activities, including a vegetarian cooking demonstration of “Fried Noodles with 10 Heavenly Dragons”, followed by a free food distribution. Additionally, a procession of flower cars will be held to honor the goddess Guanyin, and a vibrant lion-dance procession will take place. Continued …

Two restaurants you won’t want to miss out on in Krabi and Koh Samui

Tomatoes, onions, gingers and garlic are to Pakistani gastronomy what lemongrass, basil, galangal and kaffir lime leaves are to Thai cuisine. These quintessential Thai ingredients are the very basics of the Thai culinary scene and come together to create a masterstroke, all the while balancing their sweet, sour, savory, salty and umami elements, blending together to create a gastronomical experience that is both complex and flavorful.

All these flavors swirled in my mind as I landed in Thailand’s Krabi. Navigating the winding roads from the Krabi airport to the hotel, the first pit stop we made was at a roadside stall for freshly sliced coconuts to quench our thirst with coconut water. A dense mangrove forest in the background, the sounds of waves softly resounding from just across the road and the sweet taste of fresh coconut water — heaven. Continued …

7 best family resorts in Phuket

Far more than just a party island, Phuket is becoming one of the most family friendly of the Thai destinations.

1. Club Med Phuket

Fresh from a refurbishment of the pool and sun decks, this all-inclusive resort sits on 16 hectares of Kata Beach shoreline. There are 26 included activities in the tariff and the kids clubs are cleverly segmented into 0 to 2 years, 2 to 3 years, 4 to 10, 11 to 13 and 14 to 17 years. Some of the activities include flying trapeze lessons, tennis group lessons, archery classes, and family baking workshops. Continued …

Study shows climate change is making typhoons worse in Southeast Asia

A joint scientific study released in July examined the effects of climate change on typhoons in Southeast Asia. It found that typhoons in the region are forming closer to coastlines. They are also intensifying more rapidly and lasting longer over land.

A statement from the study warned that coastal communities and cities like Hai Phong in Vietnam and the Thai capital, Bangkok, face threats from longer-lasting and more intense storms. Continued …

Why the Thai food industry is embracing sustainability

The very act of eating is often perceived as a “destroyer” of the planet, contributing to deforestation, pollution, and climate change. However, a growing movement suggests that food consumption can be a powerful tool for positive change.

Is “eating to save the planet” a realistic goal? While it might seem far-fetched for the average consumer, it’s a concept that businesses are taking very seriously. Continued …

Siam Cement chief calls for unified push toward green economy

Collaboration between the business and government sectors is crucial to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon society, said Thammasak Sethaudom, president and CEO of Siam Cement Group (SCG). He made this point during a speech on Monday at the Sustainability Expo 2024 on “Driving Inclusive Green Transition”.

He cited SCG’s efforts over recent years to promote an inclusive green transition toward a low-carbon economy and increase Thailand’s global competitiveness on the issue. He suggested stakeholders push for laws and regulations to make clean energy accessible to everyone, including liberalizing clean energy trading through the smart grid. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

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, cha am, chiang mai, exports, hua hin, marijuana, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 23

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Khao Takiab monkey relocation/Sramkova takes Thailand Open/Mechanic Crushed to Death in Cha Am/New Drunk Driving Testing/Thailand braces for deluge/Mud must be cleared/Community-led disaster management/State salaries face scrutiny/Wildlife sanctuary office bombed/iPhone users in Thailand/Anti-Cannabis Law Draft/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: All eyes on the baht/Wage hike reaches stalemate/Tax reform plan/Thai restaurant industry in crisis/Casino plan defended/Chinese bought nearly 40% of condos/2024 GDP forecast at 2.6%/Rules target subpar imports/Thailand’s Halal Exports/Xiaomi takes 2nd spot/Tourism: Aid expedited for tourism sites/Foreign pilots allowed to fly/Thailand Experience: Trip to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Sukhothai/Thai Breakfast Street Food/Unique Ice Creams/Five traditional dishes of Nonthaburi/Thai dish Larb Gai goes viral/Only Indian female chef with two Michelin stars/Statue fest in Petchabun/Climate Thailand: China’s footprint on Thailand’s energy landscape/International/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

Khao Takiab monkey relocation

Continued …

 

 

Unseeded Sramkova takes Thailand Open top honors

Slovakia’s world No.102 Rebecca Sramkova breezed through the singles title showdown of the Allied Thailand Open at Arena Hua Hin on Sunday when she overpowered Germany’s Laura Siegemund, 6-4, 6-4.

The crowd at the venue was entertained to some good tennis by Sramkova as she wrapped up the battle between the two unseeded finalists in one hour and 56 minutes. Continued …

Mechanic Crushed to Death by Truck in Cha Am

An incident claimed the life of a 28-year-old truck mechanic yesterday while he was repairing the undercarriage of a 10-wheeler truck. The incident occurred at a truck repair shop along the Cha Am-Pranburi bypass, heading toward Bangkok.

According to police reports, the mechanic had finished replacing parts under the truck and was preparing to reattach the rear wheels. As he was adjusting the hydraulic jack to lift the truck higher, it tilted unexpectedly, causing the heavy vehicle to crash down on him, fatally crushing his head. Continued …

Suspected Drunk Drivers to Face New Testing Methods

Thailand has introduced new regulations allowing police to use urine or blood tests to determine the alcohol levels of drivers suspected of being drunk if they refuse to take a breathalyzer test. This announcement, published in the Royal Gazette, updates previous regulations from 1994 and 2017, which relied mainly on breathalyzer tests.

The revised laws aim to modernize alcohol testing procedures and enhance the effectiveness of legal measures to combat drunk driving. The regulation permits police officers to either collect urine samples on site or escort drivers to a hospital for blood tests when breathalyzer tests are refused. Continued … 

Thailand braces for a deluge

Heavy rainfall is expected across Thailand, with 80% of the country set to experience severe weather. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued warnings for potential flash floods and sudden surges of water, particularly in mountainous and low-lying areas.

The TMD forecasts continuous rain for the next 24 hours, with heavy downpours in several regions. The lower northern, northeastern, central, and eastern regions are particularly affected due to a strong monsoon trough passing through these areas and extending to a low-pressure system over Hainan Island, China. Continued …

Thai PM: Mud must be cleared from Chiang Rai promptly

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered officials to remove thick layers of mud from flooded Chiang Rai as soon as possible, while flood-related garbage and debris is estimated to be about 68,000 tons in this northernmost Thai province.

At Wing 6 in Bangkok on Sunday, Paetongtarn saw off air force aircraft that transported supplies from the government and the private sector to help flood victims in Chiang Rai. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Is community-led disaster management the key to breaking Thailand’s flood cycle?

Amid the many natural disasters that have struck Thailand over recent decades, one community stands out for robustly defending its inhabitants against floods, fires and landslides: Koh Khan in Nakhon Si Thammarat’s Cha-uat district.

“We have drawn up response plans and rehearsed them, so we know exactly what to do when disaster actually strikes,” said Komest Thongbunchu, chair of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Disaster Management Network. Continued …

State salaries and benefits face scrutiny

The Comptroller-General’s Department, the Budget Bureau and the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) are considering how to reform salaries and benefits in all government sectors.

According to Patricia Mongkhonvanit, director-general of the Comptroller-General’s Department, the government needs to address this issue because the budget allocated for these items is extremely high. Continued …

Wildlife sanctuary office bombed, torched in Thailand’s deep south

About 20 armed men took four officials hostage, stole firearms and bombed and torched four buildings at the office of the Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in Waeng district in Narathiwat Saturday night.

Attapon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said four sanctuary officials were captured in their living quarters while the black-clad and heavily armed attackers, with faces covered, bombed and torched the sanctuary office complex. Continued …

Five groups of iPhone users in Thailand

There are five groups of Thai users of the iPhone, the popular smartphone made by Apple Inc., according to a market survey and statistics of mobile-phone usage from 2019-2024, published by The 1 Insight on Friday.

The data insight platform that focuses on consumer lifestyles said the arrival of the latest iPhone 16 this week has doubled the sales of products in gadget groups compared with the same period in the previous month. Continued … 

Anti-Cannabis Law Draft: Political Compromise, Not Moral Outrage

The recent draft law on cannabis, proposed by Thailand’s health ministry, signifies a political compromise rather than a staunch moral stance. The draft aims to limit cannabis use strictly to medical treatments, official research, and as an ingredient in food and herbal products.

Severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential jail time, are outlined for deviations, but the specifics remain ambiguous. Notably, the draft omits any mention of recreational cannabis use. Continued … 

  • Iranian Man Arrested for Theft of Money From Russian Woman in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Tourist Police Arrest Indonesian Woman for Illegally Operating Tours – Continued …

All eyes on the baht

The direction of the Thai currency for the remainder of the year is critical for local industries after the U.S. Federal Reserve cut interest rates as expected last Wednesday, putting more pressure on the Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), which has held steady on rates since last year.

For the manufacturing, export and tourism industries, some executives estimate the short-term impact from the strong surge of the baht might not be severe, but they still want the central bank to act, as the Fed signaled additional rate cuts this year and next. Continued …

Vote on Thai wage hike reaches stalemate

A nationwide wage hike has encountered another delay, with the crucial planned vote on the issue reaching a stalemate after a tripartite wage committee member was poised to lose his seat.

The 400-baht wage hike proposal was scheduled for a vote by the committee on Friday. However, a lack of quorum led to the meeting being adjourned and rescheduled to Tuesday. Continued …

Tax reform plan to counter rising budget deficit

Thailand has faced a budget deficit for more than 20 years, and with no turnaround in sight, the government is urgently seeking additional revenue sources.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently told the parliament that the government plans to generate new income by bringing the informal economy and underground economy, which are estimated to account for over 50% of GDP, into the tax system. Continued …

With over 600,000 closures, Thai restaurant industry in the midst of a crisis

The Thai restaurant industry is grappling with a severe crisis, with more than 600,000 establishments shuttering their doors in the past three years. The closures are primarily attributed to a combination of economic slowdown, intense competition, rising costs, and weakened consumer spending.

In a recent interview, Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the Thai Restaurant Assn., highlighted the urgent need for restaurateurs to transform their business models to survive in the challenging landscape. Continued …

Casino plan defended as economic boon

The ruling Pheu Thai Party has defended its casino-entertainment complex project, saying it will legalize the underground activity and allow the government to collect tax revenue from it.

According to a statement by Pheu Thai, legalizing underground gambling activities and tax on the project itself could be worth more than 50% of GDP, which will help boost the economy, and can be spent on education development and other projects. Continued …

Chinese nationals bought nearly 40% of condos sold to foreigners in H1

Chinese nationals bought 2,872 condo units in Thailand from January to June, accounting for 39.5% of all condominium ownerships transferred to foreigners in the first six months of 2024, the Government Housing Bank’s Real Estate Information Center (REIC) reported.

In second place are buyers from Myanmar at 638 units (8.8%), followed by Russia, 567 units (7.8%), Taiwan, 326 units (4.5%), and the United States, 292 units (4%). Continued …

KResearch keeps 2024 GDP forecast at 2.6%, stronger growth seen later

KResearch maintains its GDP projection for 2024 at 2.6 %, with growth in 2H24 expected to be higher than in 1H24. Attention should be paid to the short-term impacts of flooding and the slowdown in core global economies, it said.

It added the upcoming U.S. presidential election could bring about renewed trade tensions, and Thailand may see only limited benefits from the situation. Continued …

Digital rules target subpar imports

The Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) has introduced new guidelines to deal with substandard products available on digital platforms, especially the flood of imported subpar items.

The agency wants to strengthen regulatory mechanisms to enhance buyer confidence. The new guidelines, dubbed “Management of the Sale of Products Requiring Standards on Digital Platform Services”, took effect on Sept. 2 under the digital platform service decree. Continued … 

Thailand’s Halal Exports Set to Soar with Global Recognition

Thailand’s halal industry has gained global recognition in recent years, positioning the country for significant growth in halal exports. Thailand, a predominantly Buddhist nation, ranks as a top global exporter of halal food, securing the 15th position in 2021.

The country’s halal food exports reached nearly US$6 billion in 2021/2022, targeting a 3% growth in 2023. Top exports include rice, sugar, canned seafood, processed fruits, vegetables, non-alcoholic beverages, and organic and functional foods. Continued …

Xiaomi takes 2nd spot after Samsung in August smartphone sales

Chinese smartphone makers are swiftly growing their presence in the global market, taking over the entry-to-mid-tier segment while creating a buzz with unique premium models to narrow the competitive gap with top players Samsung and Apple.

In August, Chinese firm Xiaomi claimed second in terms of global monthly sell-through volumes for the first time in three years, beating Apple, market tracker Counterpoint Research said Thursday. Samsung Electronics retained in the top spot. Continued … 

Aid expedited for tourism sites hit by floods

The government will expedite its compensation plan, including soft loans and tax measures, for tourism businesses hit by the recent inundation, according to an official.

The government is now preparing various measures, including an offer for a one-month exemption for tap water and electricity bills for households affected by the recent floods, he said. Continued …

Foreign pilots allowed to fly domestic routes

The Labor Ministry plans to temporarily allow foreign pilots to fly domestic routes through wet lease arrangements for airlines, but future requests from other airlines will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

“The ministry is still awaiting a final meeting with the airline to conclude the discussion,” said Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Continued …

How to plan a trip to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Sukhothai

When you think of Thailand, you think of Pad Thai, Tom Yum, temples, markets, beaches, and friendly people, but most importantly, you think of a budget-friendly destination you can easily visit.

Thailand has plenty to offer travelers across the budget spectrum. You can spend more than a week eating delicious food, exploring ancient sites, and getting lost in the maze of the urban jungle without breaking the bank. Continued …

Thai Breakfast Street Food Tour in Bangkok Silom Soi 20

Video …

Exploring Thai Street Food: Unique Ice Creams and Rolled Delights

Video …

Five traditional dishes among disappearing flavors of Nonthaburi

The Department of Cultural Promotion has compiled information on local cuisine under the 2024 fiscal year’s “The Lost Taste” project. The key focus is on preserving and collecting local dishes rich in cultural wisdom and unique flavors.

This initiative aims to connect Thai society to the value of traditional foods that form the roots of the Thai community. It also includes the preparation methods, history of each dish, and the cultural aspects associated with them. Continued …

New York Times spotlight on Thai dish Larb Gai goes viral

The New York Times’ recent feature on the Thai dish Larb Gai (minced chicken salad) has captured international attention, quickly going viral. The renowned media outlet, with over 19 million followers on Facebook, shared a detailed post about this popular Thai dish, sparking widespread interest.

Larb Gai, a dish made from minced chicken, is cooked with mint leaves, basil leaves, and shallots, and seasoned with lime juice and chilli powder. It is a favorite in both Laos and the northeastern region of Thailand (Isaan). The New York Times’ post not only described the ingredients and preparation but also highlighted the cultural significance of the dish. Continued …

Garima Arora, the only Indian female chef with two coveted Michelin stars

Sitting at the very heart of Bangkok’s vibrant dining scene, leading chef Garima Arora is the culinary mastermind behind the two Michelin-starred restaurant Gaa. Since opening in 2017, she has captivated audiences with her extraordinary vision, helping transform the landscape of Indian cuisine on the global stage.

Garima’s culinary journey began at 21, training in Paris at Le Cordon Bleu where she was introduced to a new culinary world of technique and skill. Embracing this, she relocated to Dubai to work at Verre by Gordon Ramsay before spending three years at Noma in Copenhagen. This diverse training and experience guided her at Gaa to explore in-depth Indian cooking techniques and flavors by applying them on locally sourced ingredients. Continued …

Statue fest gains new followers in Thailand’s Petchabun

The tradition of “Um Phra Dam Nam”, meaning “the bathing of a Buddha image”, in Phetchabun is expected to attract 200,000 visitors, generating about 80 million baht over the course of the 10-day event, which starts this Friday.

The event is unique to the region and organized every year on first day of the new moon on the 10th lunar month, which falls on Oct. 2 this year, said Seksan Niyompeng, mayor of Muang Phetchabun municipality. Continued …

Chasing the sun: China’s footprint on Thailand’s energy landscape

Thailand, a land of natural beauty, faces an escalating pollution crisis that threatens its environment. Yet, amid this challenge, collaboration with China is driving innovative solutions.

Video 

In the northeastern province of Ubon Ratchathani, a hydro-floating solar hybrid installation combines solar and hydropower, reflecting a future where technology and nature coexist harmoniously. Continued …

California expands ban on plastic grocery bags

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation on Sunday that expands the most populous US state’s ban on plastic grocery bags. The state — which has the fifth largest economy in the world — had banned plastic bags in 2014, but allowed stores to offer consumers thicker bags that were said to be reusable. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

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, cha am, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Sept 17

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Allied Thailand Open in Hua Hin/Squid fishing festival/Flood victims to receive maximum 230,000 baht/Nong Khai flooding to end in two weeks/Flash flood hits Phayao/Phuket flooded again/Navigating ‘rain bombs’/Residents blame statue for floods/Vipers slither in flood season/Rescue dog Singto passes away/Online sexual abuse/Behind Major Crimes in Sweden/Myanmar migrant surge/Phatthalung airport plan/Lessons from ‘Moo Deng’/Economy: Damage to economy from flooding/Overcoming Thailand’s Economic Challenges/Minimum wage rising to 400 baht/Baht to continue to rise/Restaurants struggle to cope/Digital wallet scheme/Tweaking the casino plan/Upbeat on local herbs, spices/Tourism: 300-Baht Fee for Visitors/Hotels Urge Extend Visa Waivers/Malaysians flock to southern Thailand/Thailand Experience: Grocery shopping in Thailand/Bangkok’s Culinary Craze/Must-visit Rad Na restaurants/Climate Thailand: How single-use plastic rules the world/International/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

Wildcarder advances in Allied Thailand Open in Hua Hin

World No.184 Lanlana Tararudee of the host country advanced to the second round of the Allied Thailand Open tennis tournament with a 6-0, 6-1 victory over compatriot Thasaporn Naklo at Arena Hua Hin yesterday.

Both Lanlana and Thasaporn were awarded wildcard entries into the main draw of the WTA 250 event. Continued …

Squid fishing festival starts in Cha Am

Continued …

Flood victims to receive maximum 230,000 baht per household

The government will provide a maximum of 230,000 baht in financial aid to every household affected by floods in several provinces, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said on Monday. This money is on top of the 40,000 to 50,000 baht compensation being paid for other cases, such as deaths, PM’s Secretary-general Prommin Lertsuridej, added.

Paetongtarn said that she would propose to the Cabinet that 3 billion baht be disbursed from the central budget for flood relief during a meeting today. Continued …

Nong Khai governor says flooding to end in two weeks

The governor of Nong Khai province said flooding in the province may end in two weeks because the level in the Mekong is now receding, and the provincial administration will organize a major cleanup once the situation eases.

Nong Khai Gov. Sompop Samitasiri was speaking to reporters as he led his deputy Charnchai Khongthan and Muang district chief Suchart Thonmanee to inspect the flooded area near Phrathat Klang Nam in the downtown area, which was the hardest hit by the Mekong overflowing. Continued …

Flash flood hits the heart of Phayao

Persistent overnight rain caused the Mae Ka Huai Khian stream to overflow in Muang district this morning, leaving many residents, young and old, stranded on upper floors and roofs.

According to local media, the stream burst its banks in Ban Huai Khian village in tambon Mae Ka of Muang district. Flood levels ranged from one to two meters, swamping many buildings and vehicles. Continued …

Phuket flooded again following heavy downpour

Several roads in Phuket are underwater today following heavy rainfall, which has caused flash floods and mudslides in mountainous areas, according to reports from the province.

In the Ban Kata community, where 13 people died and 19 others were injured in recent mudslides, it is reported that rocks were washed down the Nak Kerd mountain by torrents of water, raising concern among residents of a possible repeat of the recent tragedy. Continued …

Navigating ‘rain bombs’

‘Traveling around is hard, and I’m scared of snakes. Last year, the flood lasted only three days, but this year it’s been much longer. Every time it floods, the vegetables I plant die,” says Nathanicha Lamai, an 8-year-old second-grader, as she shares her feelings about the flooding that has submerged her home in Sukhothai, caused by the overflowing Yom River.

Nathanicha has missed several school days because her school was closed due to the flood, and the Chinese cabbage she planted with a neighbor has rotted and been washed away by the water. Continued … 

Statue removed to museum after residents blame it for Mae Sai floods

A sculpture inspired by a northern ethnic woman was moved to Chiang Rai Contemporary Art Museum (CCAM) in Mueang district last week following a spate of social media posts holding the statue responsible for the severe flooding in Mae Sai district.

The “Angel of Maesai” sculpted by Thai artist Kraiwut Donjuk, previously stood in front of the Thailand-Myanmar border checkpoint in Mae Sai district as part of efforts to improve the landscape. However, several netizens with strong beliefs in spirits and the supernatural claimed that the statue was the cause of severe flooding in the district. Continued …

Thailand’s venomous vipers slither in flood season

Thailand’s deadly snake brigade is on the slide! Home to seven venomous species, these serpentine killers are a force to be reckoned with, especially during the treacherous flood season. With venom that packs a punch, sometimes fatal, these snakes are not to be trifled with.

Venom from these slithering assassins delivers a double whammy: muscle weakness and paralysis. It starts innocently enough with drooping eyelids, fools you into thinking you’re sleepy, and then, BAM! The next thing you know, you’re struggling for breath. Continued …

Singto, veteran member of K9 Search & Rescue team passes away

“Singto,” a member of Thailand’s K9 Urban Search and Rescue team, has died of cancer after 11 years of dedicated service to the organization, said Alongkot Chukaew, deputy director of K9 USAR Thailand. Alongkot noted that Singto was a very strong dog, always ready to face any challenge, and worked with him through difficult times, such as diving in reservoirs to search for missing persons. K9 Singto was a Golden Retriever who had been battling cancer for four months and passed away on Sept. 15. (thaipbs.com)

Online sexual abuse now at severe levels in Thailand

The growing threat of sexual harassment on social media is having a severe impact on children and the young, according to Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

In its social outlook report, the NESDC said victims of such harassment are at risk of developing social, emotional and mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. Continued …

Thailand-Based Networks Behind Major Crimes in Sweden

A police report has revealed that approximately 600 criminals, many of them operating from countries like Thailand, are at the helm of substantial criminal activities in Sweden. This wide-reaching influence encompasses drug trafficking, violent crimes, fraud, and money laundering, as disclosed in a report by Ekot.

Thailand, in particular, has emerged as a significant stronghold for these criminal networks. Swedish police officer Håkan Wall underscored their considerable impact on Sweden’s criminal landscape. “They have a substantial impact on what is happening in Sweden, both when it comes to drug smuggling and violence,” Wall said. Continued …

Solving the Myanmar migrant surge

With the civil conflict in Myanmar showing no signs of abating soon, Thailand faces formidable challenges in irregular migration from the country. Without adequate and sustainable solutions, Thailand’s overall development, including its economy, society, and security, will be seriously impacted.

To address these issues, the Paetongtarn government should urgently prioritize immediate implementation and develop new mechanisms that streamline measures and procedures to improve the livelihoods of these migrants. It is a Herculean task. Continued … 

Phatthalung unveils 71-billion-baht airport plan

A plot of land spanning 1,496 rai near Songkhla Lake in Phatthalung has been earmarked for constructing a new airport, aimed at boosting tourism and transport in the southern province and its neighbors.

Anticipated to become a central hub for Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, the land in Khuan Maphrao subdistrict, Mueang district, is owned by the Department of Rice (DoR). The decision to select this site was finalized by Phatthalung’s public-private working group.. Continued …

Lessons from ‘Moo Deng’

The popularity of two-month-old pygmy hippo “Moo Deng” is not happenstance. It is the fruit of a laborious and systematic media campaign by the public relations team of Khao Kheow Open Zoo to promote their animals.

The zoo, in Chon Buri province, often provides entertainment activities, such as live music performed by local students. It also created an animal food fund to boost public engagement. Continued … 

Damage to the economy from flooding could reach 27 billion baht

The flooding in northern Thailand has been the most severe in the past 80 years and impacted the economy by as much as 27 billion baht, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) said on Monday.

“We estimate that the floods have caused 25-27 billion baht in damage to the economy and entrepreneurs in the area,” federation Chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul said, pointing to the devastation of agricultural areas and orchards from heavy rains in Thailand and Myanmar and the additional downpours forecast to hit the country this week. Continued …

Overcoming Thailand’s Economic Challenges

Thailand’s economy is confronted with long-term challenges such as an aging population and low productivity. These issues cannot be quickly resolved and necessitate reforms, including empowering local governments and liberalizing the energy sector.

As Thailand contends with the difficulties of 2024, it is anticipated that the nation’s economic landscape will encounter substantial long-term challenges. Continued …

Minimum wage rising to 400 baht despite employers skipping meeting

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the minimum daily wage is rising to 400 baht nationwide from Oct. 1 despite employers’ representatives not showing up for the tripartite wage committee meeting yesterday. He warned employers that if they still remain silent and not show up for the next meeting scheduled for Friday he would still proceed with the wage hike.

Phiphat mentioned that he had received letters from chambers of commerce in almost every province, including provincial industrial councils and the Federation of Thai Industries, stating that they were not ready to increase wages at this time. Continued …

Baht expected to continue to rise

The baht could appreciate further, after hitting a 19-month high of 32.2 baht to the dollar on Monday, if the U.S. Federal Reserve cuts interest rates deeper than 25 basis points at its meeting this week, as falling U.S. inflation could prompt the central bank to deliver an outsized rate cut.

The Thai currency rose from Friday’s close of 33.33 baht against the greenback as investors rushed to sell the dollar ahead of the central bank’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting on Wednesday, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research). Continued …

Restaurants struggle to cope

Knowing one’s strengths and distinctiveness, along with being able to utilize online marketing tools, are seen in Thailand as the keys to survival for restaurant business operators in a highly competitive market.

Thanapong Vongchinsri, the owner of Penguin Eat Shabu, said buffet restaurants in the country are facing rising costs such as raw materials, rental fees, and management costs. Continued …

Less than 40 million expected to join digital wallet scheme

The government expects less than 40 million people to sign up for its flagship digital wallet handout scheme, with the first phase set to be distributed to 14.5 million vulnerable people from Sept. 25, a finance ministry official said on Monday.

The government has planned to give away 450 billion baht to 45 million people under its stimulus program, which will see 10,000 baht transferred to each person who registers to spend in their localities within six months. Continued …

Tweaking the casino plan

Members of the tourism sector welcome the government’s policy on integrated entertainment complex development in the hope it will stimulate the economy, suggesting that some laws and regulations be amended to support the cause. Some, however, doubt whether the project will be worth the impact.

Weerawit Krueasombat, president of the Patong Entertainment Business Assn. (PEBA) in Phuket, said it is a good idea to have an integrated complex that includes a casino in a major tourist city. Continued …

McCormick upbeat on local herbs, spices

Even though Thailand has a sluggish economy, the Thai herbs and spices market has proved to be resilient, according to McCormick & Co., an American spice manufacturer and distributor.

Priya Sharma, managing director of McCormick India-Southeast Asia, said the company believes that following the Covid-19 pandemic, people around the world now tend to cook more at home. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Tourism Minister Aims to Levy 300-Baht Fee for Visitors

Thailand’s newly appointed Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, is set to revive the previously shelved 300-baht tourism tax, aiming to enhance tourism revenue to at least 3 trillion baht this year.

“I believe the collection of the tourism fee benefits the tourism industry, as the revenue can be used for infrastructure development and ensuring tourist safety,” remarked Thienthong, who took office recently. Continued …

Thai hotel Association Urges Government to Extend Visa Waivers

As Thailand’s tourism continues to grow, the Thai Hotel Assn. (THA) has suggested that the government launch another round of stimulus measures focusing on labor and financial support. They also urged the government to consider extending the free visa requirement for destination markets and postponing the imposition of the “landing fee” for another two years.

A confidence survey in August showed an average occupancy rate of 62%, higher than the previous month. Sixty percent of hotels reported revenues at or above pre-COVID-19 levels. Continued …

Malaysians flock to southern Thailand, boosting economy by one billion baht

Nearly 100,000 Malaysian tourists took advantage of the long weekend in conjunction with Malaysia Day to vacation in southern Thailand – contributing more than 1 billion baht to the local economy.

The president of the Hat Yai Songkhla Hotel Assn., Sittipong Sitthipatprapha, stated that more than 36,000 Malaysian tourists entered the Songkhla province through three main entry points – namely Sadao, Ban Prakob, and Padang Besar – on Sept. 14, with traffic jams reported from as early as 5 a.m. until 11 p.m., especially in the Hat Yai area. Continued …

Grocery shopping in Thailand: must-buy ingredients and where to find them

People often say that to truly know Thailand, you must eat like the locals, not just on the streets but also by shopping for ingredients the way they do – in bustling markets, supermarkets and specialty stores.

Each shopping experience offers a unique insight into Thai culture and cuisine, particularly local wet and floating markets, which are often microcosms of the neighborhoods that they serve. Continued … 

Today’s “Guest” sponsor

Bangkok’s Culinary Craze: 5 Must-Try New Spots

Bangkok’s vibrant food scene is always sizzling. New street food spots, restaurants and rooftops are popping up across the city, each offering unique takes on Thai classics or exciting culinary adventures.

For adventurous eaters seeking new mouth-watering experiences, Bangkok is updated with delicious possibilities. This guide highlights five must-try new spots that you should not miss for your next visit to Bangkok. Continued …

Must-visit Rad Na restaurants in Bangkok

If you’re in Bangkok and craving Rad Na, you’re in luck! This tasty Thai dish features wide rice noodles in a savory gravy with meat and vegetables. Bangkok is full of great spots to enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Rad Na, the city’s top restaurants offer fantastic versions of this classic dish. Let’s explore some must-visit places where you can savor every bite of this Thai favorite. Continued …

‘Easy, convenient, cheap’: how single-use plastic rules the world

Negotiators hope to reach the world’s first treaty on plastic pollution this year, but across five very different countries, AFP found single-use plastic remains hugely popular as a cheap and convenient choice, illustrating the challenges ahead:

Bangkok

On a Bangkok street lined with food vendors, customers line up for Maliwan’s famed traditional sweets. Steamed layer cakes — green with pandan leaf or blue with butterfly pea — sit in clear plastic bags alongside rows of taro pudding in plastic boxes. Continued …

Myanmar flooding death toll jumps to 226

The death toll from massive flooding in Myanmar in the wake of Typhoon Yagi has doubled to 226, as the UN warned as many as 630,000 people could be in need of help. Continued …

Strongest Typhoon Since 1949 Hits Shanghai, the Financial Hub

The strongest typhoon to hit Shanghai since at least 1949 flooded roads with water and broken tree branches, knocked out power to some homes and injured at least one person as it swept over the financial hub Monday. Continued …

Meta bans RT and other Russian state media networks

Facebook owner Meta said on Monday it was banning RT, Rossiya Segodnya and other Russian state media networks from its platforms, claiming the outlets had used deceptive tactics to carry out covert influence operations online. Continued …

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, immigration, pattaya, phuket, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 16

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Send us your news to aim@hhexpatnews.com

Blessing of the fleet/Red Cross Fair in PKK/Shotgun slaying in Cha Am/Leave license at home/Heavy rain forecast/Floods, landslides claim 16 lives/Flooding affects about 30,000 families/Mekong River breaches embankment/Mekong nations can curb floods/Blackpink’s Lisa performs/Best health insurance for expats aged 40-60/Overhead cables moving underground/12,000 visitors for baby hippo/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Daunting to-do list/Thailand a major trading nation/Workers ponder their future/Business Leaders Reject 400 Baht Minimum Wage/‘Pet humanization’ trend/Major retail outlet closures/Texas Chicken folds its wings/Tourism: Thailand’s new visa measures/Pattaya’s raunchy nightlife/’Wellness on a Plate’ campaign/Trat islands tourism/More man-made tourism magnets/Increase in Malaysian tourists/AirAsia Thailand India flights/Thailand Experience: What to do in Betong/Climate Thailand: New Era of Travel Prioritizing Sustainability/The plastic menace/EV sector crisis/Electric vehicle surge/PTT’s path to greener future/WHAUP prepares for energy demand spike/International/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

Hua Hin holds blessing of the fleet ceremony

Continued …

Red Cross Fair kicks off in PKK

Continued …

Stepson charged with shotgun slaying in Cha Am

Continued …

New Thai app allows drivers to leave license at home

Thailand’s Department of Land Transport (DLT) has introduced a QR license mobile app to provide convenience to motorists who will no longer need to carry a driver’s license.

Seksom Akraphand, director-general of the DLT, said the app allows people to display their digital driving license on electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets. Continued …

Heavy rain forecast for 51 Thai provinces, Bangkok on high alert

Today’s weather forecast warns of heavy rain across 51 provinces in Thailand, with Bangkok expected to be significantly affected. Citizens are advised to be cautious of potential flash floods and forest runoff.

The Meteorological Department of Thailand’s (TMD) 24-hour weather forecast for today predicts heavy rain in certain areas, particularly in the northeast, east, and western parts of the south. This heavy rainfall, combined with accumulated precipitation, may result in flash floods and forest runoff, especially in hilly areas, near waterways, and low-lying regions. Continued …

Floods and landslides in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai claim 16 lives

Floods and landslides in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai have resulted in 16 deaths and 136 injuries, with officials closely monitoring two additional districts for heavy rainfall anticipated from today until Wednesday.

The Ministry of Public Health reported on the current flood and landslide situation in health zone one, covering Sept. 8 to Sept. 13. The incidents primarily affected two provinces. Continued …

Flooding affects about 30,000 families in 12 Thai provinces

Flooding is affecting 30,073 families in 12 provinces, mostly in the north, and is rising in some provinces, especially northeastern ones, on Sunday, while weather forecasters expect more heavy rains this week.

Chaiwat Chuntirapong, director-general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, on Sunday said that flooding continued in: Continued …

Red alert issued in Nong Khai as Mekong River breaches embankment

Nong Khai’s municipal administration issued a red alert on Sunday morning to warn residents in the area to brace for flooding, as the swollen Mekong River has breached a sandbag embankment, causing water to flood a temple community.

Lt. Satawat Nukul, deputy company commander of the 24th Army Circle, said he has asked the provincial governor to bring large bags and concrete barriers to reinforce the embankment, fearing that the sandbags will not be able to withstand the water pressure. Continued …

Mekong nations can curb transboundary floods

The government must closely work with neighboring countries to improve the management of the Mekong River to reduce economic damage and loss of life during floods in the future, the International Rivers Network says.

Pianporn Deetes, campaign director for the Southeast Asia program at the International Rivers Network, said a huge volume of water from Myanmar contributed to the flooding disaster in Chiang Rai province. Continued …

Blackpink’s Lisa performs at VMA awards

Video …

 

 

How to choose the best health insurance for expats aged 40-60 in Thailand

Moving to Thailand as an expat brings exciting new experiences, but it also comes with the responsibility of securing quality healthcare, especially for those between 40 and 60.

At this stage in life, it’s important to find a health insurance plan that covers your specific needs and ensures peace of mind. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best health insurance plan for an expat in Thailand. Continued …

Bangkok’s overhead cables moving underground

Smart energy development in central Bangkok under the Samyan Smart City project continues to make progress, with the latest effort relocating overhead power and communication cables underground, says the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA).

Overhead cables that ran along Chulalongkorn Soi 12, which leads to Banthat Thong Road, along with those located in an area in front of the King Rama VI Monument near Lumpini Park, were removed last month, eliminating an urban eyesore, said Rachain Unwet, assistant governor for distribution system service at MEA. Continued …

Zoo sees 12,000 visitors for baby hippo Moo Deng

A surge of 12,000 visitors flocked to Khao Kheow Open Zoo yesterday to see the increasingly popular baby pygmy hippopotamus known as Moo Deng. The zoo plans to introduce a new sloth family next month, urging tourists to avoid disturbing animals.

The Director of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Attaporn Srirang, reported that the popularity of Moo Deng has significantly boosted visitor numbers. The zoo, located in Si Racha, Chon Buri, saw an influx of people arriving even before opening hours. Continued …

  • Russian Employer and Russian Electrician Arrested – Continued …
  • Police raid in Na Jomtien uncovers Indian call scam operation – Continued …
  • Chinese men arrested for using remote jammer to steal from cars – Continued …
  • Pattaya pub raid nets illegal Canadian DJ, sword-carrying Briton – Continued …

Thailand’s new premier faces a daunting to-do list

Business leaders and economists have urged the government of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to address both short-term problems and structural economic issues simultaneously.

They view comprehensive debt restructuring, measures to help low-income earners, and safeguards for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) against unfair foreign competition, especially online trading platforms, as the the top three priorities that must be tackled by the government as soon as possible. Continued …

Shippers council has a strategy to make Thailand a major trading nation

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) has unveiled a strategic development plan aimed at transforming Thailand into a leading global trading nation.

TNSC Chairman Chaichan Charoensuk last week highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing Thai exporters in today’s evolving global trade landscape. He emphasized the need for increased competitiveness amid growing trade barriers, rising costs, geopolitical tensions, and conflicts. Continued …

Thai workers ponder their future amid changing economic landscape

The employment situation in Thailand remains unclear. While official figures show low unemployment at 1.07% in the second quarter this year, the jobless number rose to 430,000, according to state-owned think tank National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

The data comes amid the closure of many local manufacturing plants, citing fierce competition from cheaper products imported from China, the high cost of living and sluggish economic growth. Continued …

Business Leaders Reject Nationwide 400 Baht Minimum Wage Hike

Natthaphon Luangwongpaisan, chairman of the Upper Northeastern Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, has openly criticized the government’s initiative to implement a nationwide minimum wage increase to 400 baht per day, set to take effect on Oct. 1.

(Editor: Here’s a thought. If the minimum wage is higher in Bangkok than in northeast Thailand, doesn’t that encourage people to move from northeastern Thailand to Bangkok for work?)

Luangwongpaisan argues that this policy lacks consideration for the diverse economic conditions present across different regions. Continued …

‘Pet humanization’ trend playing a big role in expanding Thailand’s pet market

Thailand’s pet market in 2024 is projected to be worth 75 billion baht, representing a 12.4% growth year on year, according to ttb analytics. The main factor driving this growth is the shifting trend in pet ownership.

Pet owners today increasingly view their pets as family members, a concept known as “Pet Humanization”. This has led to the idea of “petriarchy”, where pets are seen as the center of the family, and the rise of “pet celebrity”, where pets gain popularity and social influence, ttb analytics said. Continued …

Examining causes of major retail outlet closures

In early 2024, several news reports highlighted the closure of many Thai businesses, including numerous retail stores in provincial areas.

If we consider the closures of retail branches in Thailand in recent times, they include the Fairyland mall in Nakhon Sawan, the closure of branches at Kad Suan Kaew Shopping Center in Chiang Mai, Promenada Mall in Chiang Mai, and Tang Hua Seng in Thonburi. Continued …

Texas Chicken folds its wings for good in Thailand

Texas Chicken is shutting down all its outlets in Thailand after serving customers here for nine years. The fastfood company announced today that it would close all outlets from the end of September. It gave no reason for its decision to exit Thailand.

“It’s time to say goodbye to Texas Chicken after nine years of tasty memories,” it said. Texas Chicken is an American fast food restaurant chain, called Church’s Texas Chicken in the United States. Continued … 

Thailand issues four major announcements on new visa measures

The Ministry of Interior has issued four major announcements on new visa measures since July 15. These measures are intended to enhance the tourism industry, attract foreign investment, and bolster local businesses and communities.

  1. Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Designed for digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and those interested in Thai cultural activities. It is valid for five years and allows multiple entries, with each stay up to 180 days. This visa can be renewed for an additional 180 days within Thailand. Spouses and children under 20 years old can also apply for dependent DTV visas. Continued … 

Pattaya’s raunchy nightlife is still expanding

Pattaya doomsayers will tell you Sin City is all but finished. A combination of gentifrication (posh buildings replacing bars and clubs) and diversification (people now bring their kids on holiday here) has all but decimated the old Pattaya.

The number of western expats, especially retirees, has dropped thanks to repatriation or liver disease. “Things are not what they used to be,” bewails a British pensioner sipping beer with his mates as they watch the traffic jams unfold on Soi Buakhao. Continued …

TAT launches ‘Wellness on a Plate’ campaign

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched a new campaign called “Wellness on a Plate” to showcase the wide range of Thailand’s gastronomic offerings and their health benefits.

TAT Gov.Thapanee Kiatphaibool, said Thai cuisine isn’t just about food, as it is also about the nation’s longstanding cultural heritage. Under the campaign, tourists will be invited to explore various wellness-themed routes, which offers new ways to experience Thai cuisine. Continued …

Trat islands tourism bear cost of uncertainty

Tourism providers in Trat say political uncertainty and a stagnating economy are harming tourism in the province.

Attaphon Klimtap, CEO of Bunsiri Speedboat, a major speedboat operator in Trat, said tourism growth in this eastern coastal province, especially to popular sites such as Koh Chang, Koh Kut, and Koh Mak, has fallen by half during this year’s low season. Continued …

More man-made tourism magnets

While Thailand is usually perceived as a “sea, sand and sun” destination, attracting new tourism markets by developing man-made attractions has piqued the interest of the private sector. The government is drafting a plan for entertainment complex projects, which would feature legal casinos in Thailand for the first time.

Companies are enthusiastic about new attractions, with Asset World Corp. recently announcing a plan to build the first water park in Chiang Mai to serve families. Continued …

Malaysia-Thailand border checkpoint sees increase in tourists

As the school holidays and Malaysia’s National Day draw near, the number of tourists crossing the border into Thailand has increased significantly, with Bukit Kayu Hitam ICQS being a key entry point.

The strategic location of this border checkpoint, located along one of the most important routes connecting Malaysia and Thailand, makes it a key route for travelers looking to explore the neighboring country. This increase in travel volume reflects the increasing trend of Malaysians choosing to travel across the border during the festive season. Continued …

AirAsia Thailand launches Hyderabad-Bangkok, Chennai-Phuket flights

AirAsia Thailand is expanding its India network with the launch of direct flights from Hyderabad to Bangkok and Chennai to Phuket.

The Hyderabad-Bangkok route will begin on Oct. 27, offering four weekly flights, while the Chennai-Phuket route will start on Oct. 30 with three weekly flights. Continued … 

What to do in Betong, a hidden gem in south Thailand

The morning dawned as I parted the curtains and opened my fifth-floor hotel window. The distant mountains were still shrouded in clouds, but my attention was drawn to the street hawkers below, the clashing of utensils, and the roar of passing cars and motorcycles.

I looked at my watch. It was 6:30 am Malaysian time, 5:30 am in Betong, a hidden gem lodged among the mountains. I was there on a short holiday with family and friends. Continued …

Sustainable Tourism’ A New Era of Travel Prioritizing Sustainability

Although expansion in the global tourism industry has been a significant driver of economic growth, this has come at the cost of negative consequences for th environment and local communities. As a result, interest in sustainable tourism, which aims to reduce the social and environmental impacts of the industry, while also generating economic benefits for all stakeholders, has been rising worldwide, driven by consumers’ growing environmental concerns and the setting of official net zero goals.

Within the Thai context, growth has been helped by the development of local sustainable tourism models, moves to encourage businesses to “measure-reduce-offset” their carbon emissions, and support for the adoption of sustainability standards. Nevertheless, although businesses active within the tourism sector (hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, etc.) are being presented with the opportunity to expand into new, environmentally conscious market segments, this will impose the need to adopt much more stringent environmental and social standards. Continued …

Saving the planet from the plastic menace

There is no denying that plastics have delivered tremendous benefits over the past century. But as we now know, this progress has come at great cost.

Plastic pollution endangers wildlife, damages ecosystems and poses serious risks to human health. Microplastics, along with the toxic chemicals they contain, are found in the air we breathe, the food we eat and can be absorbed through the skin. As plastic waste accumulates in water, harmful chemicals contaminate the soil. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

EV sector crisis as Chinese firms trapped between lack of demand, tax penalties

Thailand’s new EV manufacturing world is in crisis. The sector, which has seen Chinese firms invest billions, is now suffering a market glut, as demand for EV cars, both in Thailand and across the world except for China, falls. This year has seen the industry tilt decisively towards HEV or hybrid vehicles.

At this time, it is being reported that Chinese firms in Thailand are holding urgent talks with the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok. The firms are bound under Thailand’s 3.0 and 3.5 incentive schemes to ramp up production to match the number of imported vehicles here. However, unable to find export markets for the cars, they are left with a vast dilemma. Continued …

The electric vehicle surge and Thailand’s plastic curse

The streets of Phuket, and indeed across Thailand, are undergoing a quiet transformation. The subtle hum of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids is becoming increasingly familiar, marking a change welcomed by many.

However, this shift isn’t fueled by a sudden wave of environmental consciousness among Thais and expats. Instead, it’s a matter of market dynamics: these vehicles are now affordably priced, offer attractive credit and undeniably fashionable. Continued …

PTT plots path to greener future

PTT Plc, Thailand’s national energy company, has realigned its strategy to balance business growth with sustainability, and advance both its own and the nation’s goals of achieving carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions, says its chief executive officer.

PTT President and CEO Kongkrapan Intarajang recently saidthe company is focused on balancing business growth with sustainability to ensure Thailand’s national energy security. PTT has set an ambitious target of reaching carbon net zero by 2050, well ahead of the national goal of 2065 agreed upon at COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland. Continued …

WHAUP prepares for energy demand spike through renewables

WHA Utilities and Power (WHA P), an arm of Thailand’s biggest industrial land developer and operator WHA Corp, is planning to spend 2.3 billion baht to support its business and serve growing demand for water and clean electricity in Thailand and Vietnam.

A portion of the budget will be allocated for renewable energy expansion, with a goal to reach electricity generation capacity of 1,000 megawatts under power-purchase agreements with the government, said Somkiat Masunthasuwun, director and a member of the WHAUP executive committee. Continued …

Myanmar flooding leaves 74 dead, 89 missing as rescue efforts intensify

As of Sept. 13, reports from Myanmar indicate that 74 people have died and 89 are missing in 64 townships and 462 wards/villages affected by flooding. Continued …

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, covid, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Aug 26

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Red Cross Fair coming/New water pipe to Hua Hin/Nordic Sauna and Padel event/Shrimp Day seminar/Lotus’ Go Fresh at Pae Mai/Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Hua Hin Cha Am/Landslide Buries Workers/More rain expected/Phuket landslide leaves 13 dead/Woman Rides Electric Suitcase/King cobra makes house call/Moonshine methanol kills 1/Patong leaders back legalizing sex work/Illegal bitcoin mine raided.Lessons of Covid-19/Economy: Casino patrons: 90% to be Locals/High-speed rail project hits brakes/Lazada chief sets out growth vision/Investment contracts/UK eyes expanded trade/Thai Bus Firms Under Siege/Wary of Chinese threat perception/Concert space bookings surge/Tourism: Koh Samui cruise terminal/Thailand Experience: Indigenous knowledge in natural resource management/The Most Pet-Friendly Country/$1-Per-Night Airbnb/Thailand’s timeless treasure Ayutthaya/Pattaya’s attraction for Brits/Memories Beach/What are the benefits of a wellness retreat?/5 worst tourist traps in Thailand/The Thai Islands to visit/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

Red Cross Fair coming Sept. 13-22

Continued …

Cha Am Shellfish eating and Shrimp Fishing Festival Sept 14-21

Continued …

New water pipe coming to Hua Hin

Continued …

Nordic Sauna and Padel event ends Sunday

Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce iwill hold a Nordic Sauna and Padel Weekend in Hua Hin Aug. 31 to Sept. 1.

There will be multiple activities, such as playing padel, golf or Finnish sauna and spa if you are more into the relaxing activities. For dinner they will host a BBQ. Continued …

Shrimp Day seminar held in Hua Hin

Continued … 

 

Lotus’ Go Fresh market opens at Pae Mai Market

Continued …

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Hua Hin Cha Am to offer 2,000 rooms

Video …

Continued …

Landslide Buries Workers Inside High-Speed Rail Tunnel Construction

Yesterday, a landslide buried three vehicles and trapped workers inside a tunnel being constructed for the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project in Chanut subdistrict, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The incident occurred while workers were excavating the tunnel, located between 600 meters and 2 Km deep into the tunnel.

Wthe workers have been found alive and rescue teams are working tirelessly to retrieve them from 6 metres beneath the debris. According to witnesses, workers were operating backhoes and loaders when the mountainside suddenly gave way, causing a massive landslide that engulfed three vehicles, including a supervisor’s car. Continued …

More rain expected for much of Thailand

Heavy to very heavy rains are forecast in Thailand from Aug. 26-28, with isolated very heavy rains possible in the upper north, the upper northeast, the east and the south (west coast).

Affected areas during the period include Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun. Continued …

Phuket landslide leaves 13 dead, 19 injured, 209 homes damaged

Rescue officials in Phuket concluded the search for missing individuals following a devastating landslide. All 13 missing persons have been found dead and the disaster has left 19 injured and impacted 209 households.

The landslide claimed the lives of five men and eight women. Among the deceased were two Thai women from Surat Thani and Sakon Nakhon provinces, a Russian couple, and nine Myanmar workers. Continued …

Woman Rides Electric Suitcase While Using Phone on Busy Bangkok Road

A video posted on the social media platform X sparked outrage and concern over road safety. The video shows a woman riding an electric suitcase while simultaneously dragging a large piece of luggage and using her mobile phone on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road near Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok. The incident has drawn attention to the growing trend of using unconventional personal transport devices in unsafe environments, sparking debate over safety regulations on the roads. (aseannow.com)

Video …

King cobra makes a house call in Chon Buri

A homeowner in Chon Buri had a terrifying encounter yesterday when a 4-meter-long King Cobra slithered into his house. The snake, which raised its head as if to greet the homeowner, coiled itself under a table, prompting a call for assistance from local authorities.

The Tri Khunatham Foundation’s rescue team rushed to the scene equipped with snake-handling tools. Upon arrival, the rescue team found the massive king cobra under a table. It took them over 20 minutes to carefully capture the aggressive snake. Continued …

Moonshine methanol hospitalizes 20, kills 1 in Bangkok

Authorities shut down 18 moonshine shops in six districts after one man died and 20 more were hospitalized due to methanol intoxication in Min Buri district on Saturday night.

Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital in Bangkok’s Kannayao district on Sunday reported that a total of 21 patients became sick after drinking the illegal brew containing methanol. Continued …

Patong leaders back legalizing sex work for safety and health

Patong’s key figures unanimously support the legalization of sex work, asserting that it will enhance safety and health protection for sex workers and their clients.

President of the Patong Entertainment Business Assn. (PEBA) Weerawit Kreuasombat highlighted the current paradox of Thailand’s stance on its renowned sex industry. “Thailand is known for its sex industry, yet maintains a hypocritical stance toward it.” Continued …

Thai officials raid illegal bitcoin mine after power outages

Thai authorities raided an illegal bitcoin mine west of Bangkok after residents complained of frequent blackouts in the area for more than a month, local authorities said Sunday. Police and officials from the Provincial Electricity Authorities (PEA) raided the house in Ratchaburi town on Friday.

“We found bitcoin mining rigs, pointing to people using this house to operate a mine and using power they didn’t fully pay for,” said Jamnong Chanwong, a chief district security officer. Continued …

The lessons of Covid-19 are being forgotten

Four years ago, at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, governments were scrambling to protect their populations and prevent an economic meltdown. No one would dispute that addressing this existential threat was the top political priority back then.

As a former prime minister and director-general of the World Health Organization, I was impressed by the coordinated international response to Covid-19. To be sure, there were large inequalities within and between countries, resulting in society’s most vulnerable paying too high a price, especially when it came to vaccine access. Continued …

Thailand’s Casino Complex: 90% of Patrons Expected to be Locals

Thailand is poised to move forward with an ambitious entertainment complex project that includes a casino. According to the Finance Ministry, the majority of the casino’s patrons — up to 90% — are expected to be Thai locals.

Public hearings are ongoing for the draft law governing this new venture, fulfilling constitutional requirements. A special House committee has studied the feasibility and submitted its findings to the Cabinet, prompting the Finance Ministry to draft the necessary legislation. Continued …

Bangkok airports’ high-speed rail project hits the brakes

The high-speed rail project set to connect Bangkok’s three major airports has been thrown into limbo, as contract amendments grind to a halt. The delay is blamed on the lack of a new chairman for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Policy Committee, a role that must be filled by the incoming Cabinet — still nowhere in sight.

The 276.5-billion-baht project promises to link Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and U-Tapao airports, offering a high-speed rail connection between Bangkok and the EEC. The EEC office’s secretary-general, Chula Sukmanop, reassured that despite the current standstill, construction could still kick off this year, with completion expected within five years, aiming for a 2029 opening. Continued …

Lazada chief sets out growth vision to drive Thailand’s digital economy

As the new chief executive of major e-marketplace operator Lazada Thailand, Varitha Kiatpinyochai, 32, is the company’s youngest homegrown chief executive and the first woman to take the helm.

She outlined her vision for the company’s “customer-first” growth in Thailand, which aims to enhance the shopping experience for different generations of customers, increase opportunities for local merchants, and highlight Lazada as an innovation leader, changemaker, and key driver of Thailand’s e-commerce ecosystem. Continued …

Investment continues to contract

Investment, a key driver of Thailand’s economy, contracted in Q2 for the third consecutive quarter, decreasing by 6.2%. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported a 6.8% decline in private investment, mainly due to an 8.1% drop in machinery and equipment investment, a 22.5% decrease in vehicle investment, and a slowdown in capital goods imports.

This investment decline aligns with the reduction in new business registrations during the first seven months of 2024, totaling 54,220, a 70% decrease from the same period last year. Continued …

New UK govt eyes expanded trade with Thailand

The United Kingdom’s new government intends to pursue further trade with Thailand and Southeast Asia as a whole, in addition to broadening connections in other areas including digital technology, healthcare and clean energy.

Rhiannon Harries, UK deputy trade commissioner for Southeast Asia, was in Bangkok from recently to hold discussions with government officials, members of the business sector and UK entrepreneurs in Thailand about UK-Thai trade relations. Continued … 

Thai Bus Firms Under Siege by Cut-Rate Chinese Competitors

The Thai bus industry is grappling with an influx of Chinese operators offering ultra-cheap services, disrupting the local market. The crisis has reached a critical point, prompting a call for immediate action from Thai authorities and industry stakeholders.

Wasuchet Sophonsathien, president of the Thai Transportation Operators Assn., has highlighted the deep-seated issues. Illegal foreign bus services are rife, he said, usurping market share from licensed Thai operators still recovering from the economic downturn caused by COVID-19. Continued …

Analyst wary of Chinese threat perception

The new government is being urged to urgently address the perception that Chinese products and investments pose a threat to Thais before the issue escalates and negatively affects Thailand’s exports and tourism.

Sompop Manarungsan, president of the Panyapiwat Institute of Management and a specialist on the Chinese and U.S. economies, said Thailand and China should cooperate to create a win-win trade model. Continued …

Concert space bookings surge 40% in 2nd half of 2024

The number of events organized at Impact Muang Thong Thani in the first half of the year increased by 10% year on year (YoY), the operator of Impact Exhibition and Convention Center said, in keeping with the MICE industry’s growth trends for all types of events, including concerts, trade shows, meetings and seminars.

Paul Kanjanapas, CEO of IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., said the main increase came in organizing meetings, seminars and incentive groups. Space bookings, especially in the incentive group, increased by 58% YoY in the second half of this year, while concerts are up by 40% YoY. Continued …

Koh Samui eyes approval of 12.1-billion-baht cruise terminal

A new cruise terminal inKoh S amui, set to open in 2032, aims to significantly boost tourism in Surat Thani, according to Deputy Caretaker Minister Manaporn Charoensri.

Manaporn, along with Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, visited Koh Samui to review the progress of major transport infrastructure projects. Suriya revealed that the ministry has several new initiatives under way to enhance the tourism sector. Continued …

The role of indigenous and local knowledge in natural resource management

One sunny morning in late 2004, the Moken people of the Surin Islands in the Andaman Sea witnessed an alarming phenomenon – the seawaters suddenly receded even as the placid weather remained unchanged. For Moken elders, this was a harbinger of the Laboon, the furious god of the waves who is said to wreak devastation once every two generations. The entire community evacuated to higher ground.

Meanwhile, Moken seafarers who were taking tourists out snorkeling similarly noticed the ocean’s unusual behavior. They skilfully manevered their boats away from the shoreline – just as the massive tsunami struck. Continued … 

Is Thailand the Most Pet-Friendly Country in the World?

Are you considering a move overseas but worried about how your beloved pets will adapt? Thailand, often celebrated for its warm smiles and gentle people, just might be the most pet-friendly place in the world. Whether you’re a “dog lady” like my sister or simply someone who can’t imagine life without a furry companion, Thailand offers a unique and welcoming environment for pets and their owners.

My sister, now 57, has been contemplating a move overseas. Naturally, I suggested Thailand, my home for the past 25 years. However, as someone who can’t live without at least three canine companions, she had her reservations. “Do Thai people eat dogs?” she asked, reflecting a common but outdated stereotype. Continued … 

Traveler Gives a Tour of His $1-Per-Night Airbnb in Thailand

An American backpacker is stretching his dollar in Thailand. Mike Rari discovered a $1-per-night Airbnb room in Bangkok, which he documented in a video on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/C-0bcYNy_Mc/ and YouTube https://www.youtube.com/shorts/F5O8t3k_tHY titled “What’s Inside a $1 Airbnb?”

Giving a tour of the lodging he found, Rari, 22, began, “U.S. flag, so you feel right at home,” after entering the tiny abode by climbing a ladder. “Outlet and Wi-Fi. A little bit cramped in here,” he added, before stepping outside, climbing back down the ladder and continuing to show off the amenities, which were primarily outdoors. Continued …

Explore Thailand’s timeless treasure in Ayutthaya

It might sound like a cliché, but the best travel plans are the ones that are never made. My quest to deviate from tried-and-tested itineraries in Bangkok took me on a journey through time.

This wasn’t a high-adrenaline adventure, but it began with a commute on a local bus from the Bangkok bus terminal (also known as Chatuchak or Mochit 2) and took me to a city that was once the pride of Thailand, its erstwhile capital, and a city that was home to a million residents at its pinnacle. Continued …

Birds, booze and banter remain the Pattaya attraction for Brits

Everyone agrees that Pattaya is evolving into something different, even if nobody is sure what that will be. However, the resort’s downtown Soi Buakhao district, sometimes over-simplified as Little Britain, is proving highly resistant to change.

Many of the bars, clubs and gogos retain English-sounding names, while fish and chips on a Friday and roast beef on a Sunday are the dominant cafe and restaurant themes. There are between 500 and 1,000 mostly small units of enjoyment in the Soi Buakhao and L.K. Metro vicinity, depending on where you draw the boundaries. Continued …

Memories Beach: Thailand’s Up-and-Coming Surf Paradise

Tucked away along the pristine Andaman coast, Memories Beach in Phang Nga province is quietly carving out a reputation as Thailand’s best surf destination.

For those who crave the thrill of surfing without the intensity of competing against seasoned pros, this hidden gem offers the perfect balance. Here, casual surfers can ride the waves in a relaxed atmosphere, far removed from the crowded shores of Phuket, all while soaking up a vibrant, emerging surf culture. Continued …

What are the benefits of staying at a wellness retreat in Thailand?

As I was suspended in an aerial yoga pose, my world turned upside down; I couldn’t help but marvel at the unexpected turn my life had taken. Just days ago, I was an overworked, stressed-out professional needing a break from the daily hustle. Now, I was at a wellness retreat in Phuket, embracing experiences I never thought I’d have the courage to try.

According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness tourism market is valued at more than US$640 billion. Intrigued by this trend and desperate for a mental reset, I stepped out of my comfort zone and into a world of sunrise hikes and meditation sessions. Little did I know that this leap of faith would profoundly transform my life. Continued …

5 worst tourist traps in Thailand: What to know before you go

Thailand, famed for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals, is a dream destination for many travelers. However, like any popular tourist spot, it has its share of tourist traps — places that, while iconic, might not always offer the authentic experience visitors seek.

Here are five well-known tourist traps in Thailand and other tips. Continued …

These are the Thai Islands to visit instead of Phuket

With miles of golden sand beaches stretching along its western flank; gorgeous temples, mosques and churches dotted around the villages and hillsides; internationally revered Michelin restaurants; a culturally rich and recently regenerated old town; a well connected international airport; plus an armada of longtail boats anchored on the shores ready to drive you out on trips around the inlets, it’s easy to see why Phuket has maintained its spot as Thailand’s most popular island for decades.

But in Phuket, where gridlock traffic jams on the roads and lack of space on the beaches are already frequent complaints, it makes you wonder: does this island need an influx? Is it time to swap Phuket for another Thai destination on your next trip? Continued …

 

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, cha am, chiang mai, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, real estate, retirement, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Aug 15

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Kingdom plunged into political turmoil/Chaikasem to be Nominated/Tycoon to Toppled PM/Fake Thai monk arrested in Hua Hin/New Cha Am beach resort/Nordic event in Hua Hin/Baht appreciates to below 35/Australian retired in Thailand/Evolution of cancer treatment/Blood donation saves Aussie/Chiang Mai bus driver condemned/Bangkok second most expensive city/Mae Sai River bursts banks/Hunt for Chinese gang/Three die in family toilet/Toxic waste ships banned/Risky video from train/Blackpink’s Lisa ‘Super Excited’/Economy: Fate of digital wallet unclear/Pheu Thai Pushes On with Casino Legalization/Private sector hopes for new PM soon/Incentive package for EEC/Regulations on foreign businesses/Thailand’s Data Center Landscape/Cheaper Chinese farm produce/CP Foods Profit Surges/GMM Music partners with Warner Music Asia/Tourism: 400 resorts face closure/Secondary province hotels need staff/Three-star hotels face woes/Thailand Experience: Travel Insurance for Thailand/Most temples in Thailand/Discovering Chachoengsao/Links: Climate Thailand/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

Kingdom plunged into political turmoil as PM Srettha is removed from office

Thailand was plunged into crisis on Wednesday afternoon when the Constitutional Court removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. In effect, the move also collapsed the current coalition government.

The Constitutional Court on Wednesday, in a majority 5-4 decision, declared an end to Srettha Thavisin’s tenure as prime minister. In effect, Thailand’s government has now also been struck down. The decision will likely spark a political and constitutional crisis. Continued …

Chaikasem to be Nominated as New Thai PM

Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former justice minister and senior figure in the Pheu Thai Party, is expected to be nominated as the new prime minister of Thailand. This comes after the unexpected dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court for ethical breaches.

Sources indicate that House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has scheduled a special House meeting on Friday to vote on Chaikasem’s nomination. The decision to nominate Chaikasem was reportedly taken during an urgent meeting held at the residence of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who holds significant influence within the Pheu Thai Party. Key figures from the coalition parties attended this meeting. Continued …

Tycoon to Toppled PM: Srettha Thavisin’s Tumultuous Tenure in Thailand

Once a high-flying real estate tycoon, Srettha Thavisin swiftly ascended to Thailand’s prime ministership, only to face a dramatic downfall within a year.

Srettha emerged from a background in luxury real estate to become Thailand’s 30th prime minister. He served as CEO of Sansiri, a major property development company, before resigning in 2022 to enter politics. Continued …

Fake Thai monk arrested after trying to deceive police in Hua Hin

A fake Thai monk was arrested yesterday after visiting Hua Hin Police Station in the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan and attempting to deceive officers.

The fake monk arrived at the police station at around 4pm Tuesday, and asked officers to donate to a monastery in the Sam Roi Yot district of Prachuap Khiri Khan. Wichai claimed that the money would support the construction of a new bathroom and cover the electricity costs at the monastery. Continued …

New Cha Am beach resort to open in October

The Aviyana Hua Hin, the newest resort along Thailand’s picturesque Cha Am coastline, will make its debut on Oct. 1. Nestled on 9 rai (140,000 sq ft) of beachfront, Aviyana Hua Hin is just steps away from its private 100-meter beach.

The resort features panoramic views of rolling hills and white-sand shores. Continued …

Nordic Sauna and Padel event in Hua Hin

Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce iwill hold a Nordic Sauna and Padel Weekend in Hua Hin Aug. 31 to Sept. 1.

There will be multiple activities, such as playing padel, golf or Finnish sauna and spa if you are more into the relaxing activities. For dinner they will host a BBQ. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Baht appreciates to below 35 per dollar

The baht appreciated to below 35 per U.S. dollar, driven by a weakening greenback as the market expects a Federal Reserve rate cut following the release of recent U.S. economic data. On Wednesday the baht opened at 35.03 per dollar, strengthening from Tuesday’s close of 35.16.

The local currency continued to gain, reaching 34.88 baht per dollar during morning trade, the highest level in seven months, surpassing the January range of 34.96-34.98 baht per dollar, said Kanjana Chockpisansin, head of research for banking and financial sectors at Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research). Continued …

Australian boomer retired in Thailand on an $18,000 annual pension

John Walker’s studio apartment in Chiang Mai isn’t much bigger than a hotel room, but it has everything he needs: air conditioning, basic kitchen appliances, and proximity to his favorite Mexican restaurant — all for less than $200 a month in rent.

The 73-year-old moved to Thailand from Western Australia in 2019. A lifelong traveler, Walker liked the idea of living somewhere new, and was drawn to Chiang Mai’s beautiful temples and mild climate when he first traveled there in the early 2010s. Continued …

The evolution of cancer treatment: Ancient to modern

Cancer has been a persistent foe throughout recorded human history, leaving its mark on ancient fossils, Egyptian mummies, and historical texts. New research sheds light on the development of cancer treatment from ancient civilisations to modern therapies.

This evolution highlights medical science’s progress and underscores the vital importance of personalized care and empathy in contemporary oncology. Continued …

Blood donation miracle saves Aussie FIFO worker in Thailand

An Australian FIFO worker has been granted a lifeline after a near-fatal car crash in Thailand. Through the selfless acts of expat Aussies, he received thesix pints of a rare blood type needed to survive.

James Lothian, a 41-year-old from Perth, was enjoying a break from work in Chon Buri, with his wife and five-year-old son when tragedy struck in March. A devastating car crash left him with catastrophic injuries, plunging him into a five-month-long battle for his life in intensive care. Continued …

Chiang Mai baht bus driver condemned for kicking locals off for foreigners

A Thai woman took to social media to condemn the wrongful behavior of a baht bus driver in Chiang Mai after the driver kicked her off the vehicle to accommodate a group of foreigners. However, the foreigners declined the driver’s service.

The 63-year-old victim, shared the baht bus incident online, with a caption that read, “Everyone should definitely avoid this red baht bus. The driver kicked me off mid-journey to pick up foreigners, hoping to get more money from them.” Continued …

Bangkok is the second most expensive city in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia shows significant variation in living costs across countries. Singapore leads with the highest cost-of-living index at 85.9, far exceeding other nations in the region due to its limited land, advanced infrastructure, robust economy, high wages, strong currency, and status as a global financial hub.

In contrast, Indonesia presents the lowest index at 31.2, followed closely by Philippines at 34.0. Thailand and Cambodia have relatively higher cost-of-living indices at 40.7 and 44.5, respectively. Continued …

Mae Sai River bursts banks, flooding border markets, villages

Heavy overnight downpours resulted in runoffs downstream of Mae Sai River, causing it to break its banks early on Wednesday and flood border towns in Chiang Rai and Myanmar.

Villagers and vendors at the Sai Lom Joy Market in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district said the river began overflowing at 5am and its level rose to about 80 centimeters quickly. They said that this was the third time this year that the river had broken its banks, flooding border markets and villages. Continued …

Hunt for Chinese gang suspected of Bt70-million robbery

Pathum Thani police on Wednesday launched a hunt for a gang of four Chinese nationals following an armed robbery at a luxury house located on a golf course in Muang district of Pathum Thani province.

Ke Jibao, 34, a Chinese businessman, told officers of Pak Klong Rangsit police station that four armed men of Chinese nationality wearing ski masks barged into the house on Tuesday night. The intruders captured the residents, comprising three men and three women, and forced Ke to transfer US$2 million (70 million baht) to their account, he said. Continued …

Three die in family toilet

Police have warned of the danger of mixing sulphuric acid and caustic soda to clean a clogged pipe, after three people died in a small toilet at a family home in Chon Buri.

Police issued the warning on Tuesday following the death of a policewoman and her two daughters at their house in Chon Buri province on Monday. Continued …

Two toxic waste ships banned from Thailand

Two Maersk ships reportedly carrying hazardous furnace waste from Albania to Thailand have been banned from Thai ports and will be sent back to Europe.

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri said on Wednesday that the container ship Maersk Candor’s last confirmed location was off South Africa last Friday. It was scheduled to arrive in Singapore on Aug. 24. Continued …

Passenger injured taking risky video from train

A passenger leaning outside a door on a moving train and recording social media content was struck by a pole and injured while traveling between stations in southern Thailand.

The passenger was on train No.452 from Sungai Kolok, in Narathiwat, to Nakhon Si Thammarat, the SRT said. The 19-year-old was hanging out of the train door while being filmed for a social media video after the train left Ban Ton Don station. Continued …

Blackpink’s Lisa ‘Super Excited and Nervous’ About First Acting Gig in ‘The White Lotus’

Blackpink’s Lisa is used to being on stage in front of thousands of screaming fans, but when it came to her casting in the upcoming third season of the HBO drama “The White Lotus”, the veteran performer got those familiar butterflies in her stomach.

“Oh my God, Mike White? I think he’s a genius,” Lisa told Elle magazine about the show’s creator tapping her for her acting debut. “I think I cried. I was with my friends, my mom’s friends, and my mom, as well, but I didn’t tell them that I auditioned for it. I’m super excited and nervous, because it’s my first acting project. So I was happy for a second, and then I was like, ‘Oh, wait, wait, how am I going to deliver this?’” Continued …

Fate of digital wallet scheme unclear after Srettha’s departure

The future of the 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme has become unclear after the departure of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The Pheu Thai Party secretary-general insisted that it would continue, while the former deputy finance minister expressed doubts.

Aside from the impact on the entire Cabinet, Srettha’s departure also sent shockwaves through Thai society, particularly among those looking forward to receiving the 10,000 baht in digital money promised as part of Srettha’s main campaign. Continued …

Pheu Thai Pushes On with Casino Legalization Amid Coalition Resistance

The Pheu Thai party remains confident in its ability to persuade its coalition partner, Bhumjaithai Party, to support the legalization of casinos, despite Bhumjaithai’s recent opposition. The bill, championed by Pheu Thai, aims to legalize casinos as part of a larger initiative to create regional entertainment complexes to attract investment.

Hours before his removal as prime minister by the Constitutional Court, Srettha Thavisin expressed optimism that Pheu Thai could eventually convince Bhumjaithai to back the bill. Continued …

Private sector hopes to see a new PM elected soon

The business sector is hoping that Parliament will soon elect a new prime minister so that the government can continue its economic policies, including the 10,000-baht digital money handout and launch of new state-owned securities Vayupak Fund.

Kriangkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), noted on Wednesday that the court’s ruling has stunned investors and forced them to put their investments on hold. Continued …

New incentive package to woo investors to EEC

The government is preparing a new set of privileges, including exempting corporate tax for 15 years, to draw more investors in targeted industries to the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who is also deputy prime minister, said on Wednesday that he will soon hold a meeting with the EEC policy board to endorse the new privilege package before sending it to the Cabinet for approval. Continued …

Thailand to strengthen regulations on foreign businesses

The Department of Business Development (DBD) is intensifying its efforts to enforce laws governing foreign businesses, ensuring fair competition for Thai entrepreneurs.

Auramon Supthaweethum, the director-general of the DBD, has confirmed the department’s commitment to working closely with law enforcement to ensure compliance, particularly focusing on foreign businesses that may be using nominee shareholders to circumvent the 1999 Foreign Business Act. Violators will face severe penalties as part of these enforcement efforts. Continued …

Thailand’s Data Center Landscape: A Powerhouse in the Making

The digital era has elevated the importance of data centers, with Thailand witnessing a significant shift in this industry.

The rise of cloud computing, big data analytics, and IoT has transformed data centers into strategic assets for businesses. Thailand’s data center market is being driven by the growth of hyperscale and colocation facilities, particularly in greater Bangkok. Continued …

Cheaper Chinese farm produce ‘coming in by train’

Cheap farm produce and consumer goods from China are coming into the country via high-speed trains through Laos and flooding local markets in the northeast of Thailand, placing local business owners in a challenging position, vendors say.

Reporters on Wednesday visited the fruit and vegetable section of Mae Kim Heng New Market in Muang district of Nakhon Ratchasima and found many kinds of Chinese farm produce on sale. Continued …

CP Foods Profit Surges 973%

Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL (CP Foods) announced a strong rebound in its Q2/2024 performance, surpassing expectations. The company reported a net profit increase of 973%, or 10 times the previous amount, driven primarily by its international business. CP Foods also announced an interim dividend payment of Bt0.45 per share.

CP Foods reported sales revenue for Q2/2024 amounting to Bt149,498 million, with 64% of total revenue coming from its overseas operations, 30% from its Thai businesses, and 6% from exports out of Thailand. Net profit reached Bt6,925 million in Q2 this year, reflecting a 973% increase compared to Q2 last year. Continued …

Thailand’s GMM Music partners with Warner Music Asia in massive deal

GMM Music announced a strategic investment partnership with Warner Music Asia (WMA), one of the world’s leading music industry giants.

WMA will invest 370 million baht in cash and provide a minimum guarantee payment of 315 million baht to accelerate GMM Music’s growth and expand the Thai music industry, the largest in Southeast Asia, to a global market. Continued …

More than 400 resorts face closure

The Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry has kicked off inspections that could lead to the demolition of more than 400 resorts for encroaching on public land in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Wang Nam Khieo district.

Thanadol Suwannarit, chairman of the ministry’s task force investigating cases of illegal land ownership under the Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO), led a raid on the Golden Mountain Resort in tambon Wang Nam Khieo in a joint operation with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) on Tuesday. Continued …

Secondary province hotels need staff, not tax benefits

The majority of hotel entrepreneurs say the government’s policy to offer tax benefits to hotel operators in secondary tourist provinces in a bid to promote the tourism industry there would only marginally increase their income.

Their opinions were reflected in July’s hospitality operators’ confidence index, following a survey conducted by the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) and the Bank of Thailand. Continued …

Three-star hotels face further woes

Despite a resilient recovery, three-star hotels have been unable to raise prices during the third quarter, while tax cuts for second-tier cities could not effectively increase hotel revenue as planned.

Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA), said the hotel operator sentiment index for July, which polled 102 hoteliers across Thailand, found an average occupancy rate of 59% for the month, up seven percentage points from June, thanks to the government’s tourism promotions and several long-weekend holidays. Continued …

Travel Insurance for a Thailand Vacation

Whether you travel to Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai or elsewhere in the Land of Smiles, Thailand can be expensive. Travel insurance coverage can help you protect your investment and cover the cost of medical emergencies.

Most importantly, travel insurance gives you the peace of mind to enjoy a stress-free Thailand trip. With the right coverage choices, you can avoid the sunken costs from a canceled vacation or the expenses of a medical emergency or illness. Here is a look at the details you need to know about choosing the best travel insurance for Thailand. Continued …

Isaan province takes crown for most temples in Thailand

Nakhon Ratchasima in the northeast has the highest number of registered Buddhist temples in Thailand, the National Office of Buddhism said on Wednesday.

The office said it has checked out provinces with the highest number of registered temples and learned that most are in the north and northeast. Continued …

Discovering Chachoengsao

Weekends bring life to the century-old Ban Mai Market in Chachoengsao, where local vendors set up stalls to offer a wide range of local delicacies like chaenglon (grilled fish cake), galorgee (rice dumpling topped with black and white sesame), kanom tuay (coconut rice custard) and hoi jo (deep-fried crab meat rolls) that evokes a rush of nostalgia.

Standing along the banks of the Bang Pakong River, meandering through an intricate network of classic wood shophouses can whisk visitors back to the reign of King Rama III when Chinese migrants turned this neighborhood into a bustling trading hub. Continued …

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, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Aug 13

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Santorini Park for sale/Sheraton Hua Hin launches Kids Club/New dual-track railway opens/Retiring to Thailand/How to detect call center scams/Tough on hazardous waste/Toxic Waste Cargo/Economy: Inflation falls slightly/Rules for digital wallets/Informal workers’ welfare/Chinese Target Thai Bus and Restaurant Sectors/Chinese steel investments/Tesla cancels factory plans/MG leads investment push/Race for Electric Vehicle Dominance/Search for tech talent/Tourism: Blowback begins about visa exemptions/Key to future travel?/Solutions for overtourism/Thailand Medical Tourism Analysis/6 tourists stranded in floods/Fight Between Tourists and Local Workers/Phuket to boost safety initiatives/Etihad Airways’ New Flights/Thailand Experience: Taste tinglers in Bangkok/International/Links: Climate Thailand/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

Cha Am’s Santorini Park for sale

Continued …

Sheraton Hua Hin launches Kids Club

Continued …

New dual-track railway opens on southern line

The southern dual-track route from Nakhon Pathom to Chumphon covering 421 kilometers was opened to passengers on Monday, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) said.

Ekkarat Sriarayanpong, chief of the office of the governor of SRT, said that although signal installation on the route is not expected to be completed until next year, it will reduce travel time to tourist attractions in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon, as well as facilitating logistics. Continued …

Retiring to Thailand leads to a busy life for US man

When Jonathan Dawson was looking for a place to move from Rochester (New York state) to retire, he looked to East Asia. After visiting China, Vietnam and Philippines among other destinations, he decided to settle in Thailand. The country seemed to fit his needs for cost, beauty, and in quality of medical care and food.

“Thailand is just very special,” he said during a visit to Minnesota in early August. “What got me to go there is that you can explore all those things that you might be wanting to do in retirement, I found it easier to do in Thailand.” Continued …

How to detect call center scams with two simple steps

A simple trick reveals how to check if a strange number calling you is from a call center scam. Just follow two easy steps to know immediately if it’s a scammer.

Call center scams have become a widespread issue in Thailand, affecting people of all ages, professions, and backgrounds. Many individuals have become wary and have started avoiding answering calls from unfamiliar numbers. Continued …

Ministries get tough on hazardous waste

The Industry Ministry is working with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and related agencies to draft a plan to assist areas recently contaminated with chemical waste, its boss told media on Monday.

Nattapol Rangsitpol, permanent secretary of the Industry Ministry, went on to say that he is aware of the problems caused by the illegal dumping of hazardous substances in Rayong, Ayutthaya, Chachoengsao, Nakhon Ratchasima and Phetchabun. The ministry has dispatched a team to monitor complaint hotspots while it tries to find a lasting solution. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Thailand Races to Stop Toxic Waste Cargo

Thai authorities are racing to stop about 100 shipping containers allegedly filled with hazardous industrial waste from Albania reaching the nation’s ports.

Basel Action Network, a U.S.-based nonprofit that tracks toxic trade, which previously alerted Malaysia to illegal e-waste shipments, last week informed Thailand that containers the organization believes is filled with potentially harmful electric arc furnace dust were heading its way. Continued …

Inflation falls slightly for fourth consecutive month

Thailand’s inflation rate continued its downward trend in July, easing by 0.83%, marking the fourth consecutive month of deceleration, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), Commerce Ministry.

While overall inflation for the first seven months of 2024 is expected to be a modest 0.11%, the TPSO warns that fluctuations in oil, food and service prices will remain key drivers of consumer costs. Continued …

Government clarifies rules for withdrawing cash from digital wallets

Deputy government spokesperson Karom Polpornklang recently clarified the procedures for cash withdrawals by merchants participating in the digital wallet scheme. His remarks were in response to incorrect online claims that suggested limitations on merchant transactions, specifically that cash withdrawals were not permitted and transactions were confined to large retail stores.

Karom explained that the project is designed to support small merchants. It allows them to conduct transactions within their local districts through an electronic payment system, ensuring these are direct and face-to-face. The system explicitly excludes transactions with large department stores and wholesale entities. Continued …

Thailand to introduce bill for informal workers’ welfare

The government of Thailand is set to introduce a bill aimed at enhancing the quality of life and providing welfare protection for the country’s 20 million informal workers, including internet influencers and farmers who currently lack access to a social safety net.

This new legislation seeks to encompass independent workers such as farmers, freelancers, vendors, artists, actors, YouTubers, influencers, and food delivery riders within a formal social welfare scheme. These groups now represent a significant portion of the workforce, yet are not formally recognized under current labor laws. Continued …

Chinese Companies Target Thai Bus and Restaurant Sectors for Expansion

Chinese companies have set their sights on Thailand’s struggling bus and restaurant sectors, sparking concern among local business owners. Plagued by high operational costs and continuing losses, many Thai bus operators are now contemplating selling their businesses. This dire situation has caught the attention of Chinese bus manufacturers and operators keen on expanding their market into Thailand.

Sources indicate that Chinese firms are particularly eager to introduce electric buses. This initiative comes at a critical time, when nearly half of Thailand’s bus fleet is out of commission due to financial difficulties. Continued …

Chinese steel investments threaten Thai industry, warns FTI

The Thai steel industry is at risk of being dominated by Chinese companies setting up steel factories in the country, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) warned on Monday.

Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the federation’s chairman, said that the Thai steel industry’s capacity utilization rate has dropped to its lowest in seven years, with the first six months of this year showing a rate of 29.3%, down from 31.2% in the same period last year. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Tesla cancels factory plans in ASEAN

Tesla has scrapped plans to build plants in the ASEAN countries, according to reports. Quoting an anonymous official source, media reported that Tesla had pulled out the team overseeing the project late last year.

Tesla is currently only discussing charging stations, with factory plans suspended in Thailand and worldwide. “They are not proceeding in Malaysia, Indonesia, or anywhere else except for China, America, and Germany,” said the source. Continued …

MG leads investment push for hybrid EVs

The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) market in Thailand is expected to intensify as automakers announce investment plans, with Chinese-Thai joint venture SAIC Motor-CP and MG Sales (Thailand) unveiling plans to produce HEVs under the MG brand in Chon Buri by 2025.

MG is looking for a new business opportunity in the domestic market where HEV sales have increased rapidly, especially after the Board of Investment (BoI) launched an investment incentive package to promote HEV manufacturing, said Pongsak Lertruedeewattanavong, vice president of MG Sales (Thailand). Continued …

Thailand Advances in the Race for Electric Vehicle Dominance

BYD, the Chinese new energy vehicle manufacturer and second largest manufacturer by sales globally, and BMW, the renowned German luxury car brand, have both decided to establish manufacturing bases in Thailand for electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries.

Despite their very different journeys, their decision to set up operations in Thailand alongside a multitude of other EV car and battery manufacturers highlights the country’s growing appeal as a manufacturing hub for the industry. Continued …

Thailand continues search for tech talent

Thailand can become a home for global tech talent by leveraging its geopolitical advantages, natural resources, and designing policies to attract young workers, according to executives.

This would facilitate knowledge transfer and talent exports in the future, said panellists at a discussion entitled “Home for Tech Talent: Driving Mobility in a Globalized World”, part of the Techsauce Global Summit 2024 held last week. Continued …

Blowback begins about latest visa exemptions and DTV

It’s less than a month since the latest immigration-related changes were introduced. But Thai spokespeople are having some trouble swallowing the detail and repercussions.

Sisdivachr Chweewarattanaporn, president of Thai Travel Agents, said, “The 60-days visa-free scheme for foreign tourists will allow more foreigners to work illegally in Thailand. Typically, those visiting Thailand for tourism tend to stay less than a month.” Continued …

Do blue zones hold the key to future travel?

What constitutes a perfect holiday? Clearly there are vastly divergent views on this. Pundits and peripatetics have long struggled with this conundrum, never quite finding a satisfying answer.

The Chinese, Japanese, Australians, Indians, Americans and Europeans all travel with different expectations. Europeans chase the sun, Indians detest the heat and favor mad monsoon binges. Some crave delicacy in food to intrigue the palate, while others need head-exploding chillies and spice. Dreams are different from country to country. When it comes to romance, one shoe will never fit all. Continued …

Solutions in sight for global overtourism

If you recently visited Barcelona, Mallorca or Venice, you’re a bad tourist who should have stayed home. At least that’s what the anti-tourism protests this summer in certain parts of Europe would have you believe.

Already this year, 142 countries are projected to exceed their pre-pandemic tourism performance, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. (That’s out of a total of 185 countries that the organization tracks.) In the next decade, tourism is predicted to grow into a $16 trillion industry that will generate 12.2% of global jobs. But the crowds and rising costs that come with it have locals in many cities feeling weary. Continued …

Thailand Medical Tourism Analysis Report 2024-2030

Medical treatments and procedures in Thailand are more affordable as compared to that in Western countries, making it a better option for those looking for high-quality medical care at a lower cost.

Thailand is well-connected by air to major cities around the world, making it convenient for patients to travel to the country for medical treatment. The country also offers visa-free arrivals for citizens of many countries, making it easier for patients to access healthcare services. Continued …

6 tourists stranded in heavy floods in Mae Hong Son rescued

Heavy overnight rainfall left Mae Hong Son’s Pang Mapha district so paralyzed from heavy flooding that officials had to be dispatched to evacuate six stranded tourists.

Weerapong Ratanasri, the district’s chief, was alerted at 7am that heavy rain through the night and early morning had flooded the Pang Mapha Field Crops Research Center and made the main road inaccessible. Continued …

Fight Breaks Out Between Tourists and Local Workers on Karon Beach

A photograph sparked online controversy yesterday when it depicted a physical fight involving Indian tourists and local umbrella handlers at Karon Beach in Phuket. The image, which showed the locals throwing punches, was posted on a popular social media page and quickly went viral, creating a flurry of reactions from internet users.

Users left a variety of comments on the post. Some blamed the free visa program for lowering the caliber of tourists. The focus then shifted to the behavior of the Indian tourists. Continued …

Phuket to boost safety initiatives for high season

Tourist safety needs to be a top priority in Phuket for the upcoming high season, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said. Srettha made the comments when meeting with tourism-related agencies in Phuket on Sunday to prepare for the upcoming tourist high season from September to February.

According to a source, the premier stressed that all relevant agencies, especially police officers, should be ready to provide services to tourists and address potential crimes, whether committed by or against tourists. Continued …

Etihad Airways Introduces New Flights to Thailand

Etihad Airways has revealed its plan to significantly expand its operations to Singapore and Thailand, which is expected to have a considerable impact on global travel. The UAE’s national carrier, known for its commitment to luxury and service, announced that it will introduce its A380 double-decker aircraft on the Singapore route starting from Feb. 1, 2025.

Etihad also plans to increase its flight frequency to Thailand, aiming to boost its weekly flights from the current 35 to 41. This increase will take effect from Oct. 27. Specifically, the new schedule will include 21 flights to Bangkok and 20 flights to Phuket, compared to the current 18 and 17 flights, respectively. Continued …

New taste tinglers in Bangkok for your palate

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, at least in the food and beverage department. Blink and you’ll miss another new restaurant opening or a drink launch. Guru By Bangkok Post is making sure that even if you blink, you don’t miss out on the new taste tinglers that are worth mentioning.

Beer Pradith

A new bar on the up-and-coming Banthat Thong Road, Beer Pradith serves a collection of Thai craft beers from four regions, all on 24 taps. Continued …

ASEAN eyes nuclear energy, but airs safety concerns

Members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are keen to explore nuclear energy to meet climate commitments and promote energy security, but they still need to overcome concerns over safety and funding, a regional forum heard recently. Continued …

Russia evacuates another border region amid growing Ukraine threat

Russia on Monday evacuated parts of another region next to Ukraine after Kyiv sharply increased military activity near the border just days after its biggest incursion into sovereign Russian territory since the start of the 2022 war. Continued …

Prabowo commits to continue building Indonesia’s new capital

Indonesia’s President-elect Prabowo Subianto said he is committed to “continue, and if possible finish” the new capital, dispelling uncertainty as to whether the incoming leader will abandon the multibillion-dollar project of his predecessor to pursue his own policy agenda. Continued …

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, pattaya, thai economy, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Aug 10

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This weekend’s local events/Drone show at Cha Am Beach/Effort to reduce energy subsidies/PTT Station cuts prices/Heavy rain and flash floods/What is turmeric good for?/Olympic Medalists Gift to His Father/Move Forward party reborn/‘Digital vaccine’ initiative/Kuwaiti Embassy urges citizens/Nine police officers wounded/New boat routes for Bangkok/Gold prices rise/Economy: Major Casino Firms Eye Investment/The Future of Money/Rising Temperatures Threaten Thailand’s Economy/Electric vehicle sales poised for new surge/Thai job seekers open to international relocation/Unemployment hits 9-month high/Nakhon Nayok nuclear project/Maintenance, repair, overhaul center in EEC/New oil platform/Tourism: Visa-free entry has many consequences/Chinese ‘market-busting tours’/Tourism buoyant again/Parks meet target/Olympians to star in tourism campaigns/Thailand Experience: Culinary Chronicles: Thailand/8 Best Indian Restaurants In Pattaya/International/Links: Climate Thailand/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

Drone show at Cha Am Beach viewpoint through Monday

Continued …

Effort to reduce energy subsidies wins backing

Tax authorities and energy advocates support the Oil Fuel Fund Office’s (OFFO) initiative to better manage the loss-ridden Oil Fuel Fund, with its universal diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) price subsidy programs likely to end, according to a public hearing on the 2019 OFFO Act.

A substantial sum from the fund is being spent to help households and businesses, with no clear criteria to determine who really needs subsidies, said participants in the hearing co-organized by OFFO and Thammasat University. Participants support OFFO’s plans to spend money more carefully after Pornchai Jirakulpisan, head of the policy and strategy department at OFFO, said earlier the office is considering helping only specific groups of people to avoid incurring huge debts. Continued …

PTT Station cuts petrol and gasohol prices by 30 satang per liter

PTT Station announced a reduction in retail fuel prices, effective from 5am tomorrow. Petrol and all types of gasohol will drop by 30 satang per liter, with diesel prices remaining unchanged.

The cut means petrol will now be priced at 44.94 baht per liter. Gasohol 95 will be 37.05 baht per liter, Gasohol 91 at 36.68 baht per liter, E20 at 34.94 baht per liter, and E85 at 34.69 baht per liter. Premium Gasohol 95 will be available at 45.64 baht per liter. Continued …

Thailand braces for heavy rain and flash floods

Thailand is set to experience heavy rainfall despite hot daytime temperatures, with 33 provinces expected to face severe weather conditions, including heavy rain. The Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts increased rain from today, Aug. 10 to 12, especially in four regions.

The weather forecast for today predicts rainfall in 38 provinces, with heavy rain in the eastern and southern regions at a probability of 60%. This could lead to sudden flooding and runoff, especially in mountainous areas near waterways and low-lying regions. Continued …

What is turmeric good for? The spice has powerful antioxidants and other benefits

More than just adding flavor, color and aroma to our food, spices tell a story. Take turmeric, for example, which was first used nearly 4,000 years ago in India before spreading through China, East and West Africa and Jamaica. Turmeric also has a long history of religious significance and medicinal use in South Asia.

Turmeric

“Turmeric’s main active component, curcumin, makes it a potential treatment for numerous health conditions,” says Dr. Denise Millstine, a women’s health and integrative medicine specialist at Mayo Clinic in the USA. Continued …

Dreams of a New Home: Olympic Medalist Theeraphong’s Gift to His Father

“Fang” Theeraphong Silachai, a Thai national weightlifting athlete, won the silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in the men’s 61 kg weight category. He is another person from the northeastern region of Thailand who has achieved a feat that brings pride to his local community.

Many Thai athletes who compete in strength-focused sports like weightlifting and boxing come from the northeastern region (Isan) and from families with difficult financial circumstances. This includes Theeraphong, whose father supported his upbringing by selling aromatic coconuts from a motorcycle with a sidecar in Sisaket Province. Continued …

Move Forward party reborn as People’s Party

People’s Party, the successor of the disbanded main opposition Move Forward, thanked supporters on Friday evening after raising 10 million baht in just nine hours after the party was officially launched earlier that day.

“We underestimated the power of the people,” said a post on the party’s Facebook page, adding that the party had set a target of raising 10 million baht and gathering 100,000 members before Aug. 31. Continued …

‘Digital vaccine’ initiative to increase public immunity against cyberthreats

Eleven agencies on Friday joined forces under the government’s “digital vaccine” initiative, which aims to educate the public about cyberthreats and online scams and how to stay safe in the digital era.

Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Chantararuangthong led 10 other agencies in signing a memorandum of understanding to form cooperation under the digital vaccine initiative, which include jointly producing public relations media to raise public awareness on cyberthreats. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Kuwaiti Embassy urges citizens to follow Thai Laws

The Embassy of the State of Kuwait in the Kingdom of Thailand, under the leadership of Ambassador Mohammad Hussain Al-Failakawi, is closely monitoring recent events that took place in Pattaya City.

Al-Failakawi has emphasized the importance of Kuwaiti citizens strictly adhering to the instructions and guidelines issued by the embassy, as well as the laws and regulations enforced by the Thai authorities. Continued …

Nine police officers wounded in attack by suspected southern insurgents

Ten people were injured, including nine police officers, when suspected southern insurgents detonated three bombs planted at the entrance to the fishing port in Bana subdistrict, Pattani, near police flats.

The assailants detonated the first bomb to lure officers to the scene before triggering the second and third bombs, the latter being a vehicle bomb. None of the victims are in a serious condition, according to reports. Continued …

Seven new boat routes planned for Bangkok to ease traffic woes

Seven new waterway routes are being planned in the Bangkok metropolitan area to ease traffic congestion and boost the comprehensive public transport network in the capital, the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning said on Friday.

The Transport Ministry is drafting the “W-Map initiative” to add waterway transport routes in Bangkok from now until 2032, aiming to increase the total distance of boat routes in the capital to 244.2km from the current 131.2km. Continued …

Gold prices rise sharply following recent declines

Gold prices surged following a significant drop, according to the latest data from the Gold Traders Assn. (GTA). As yesterday morning, the price of gold jewelry was being sold at 40,950 baht per baht-weight, reflecting an increase of 250 baht compared to the final price the day before.

The new gold prices saw gold bullion in the domestic market buying at 40,350 baht per baht-weight and selling at 40,450 baht per baht-weight. The price of 96.5% gold jewelry was bought at 39,628.24 baht per baht-weight and sold at 40,950 baht per baht-weight. Continued …

Major Casino Firms Eye Investment in Thailand’s New Complex

At least five significant global casino companies have shown strong interest in investing in Thailand’s upcoming entertainment complex project. This interest comes as Thailand’s government pushes forward with the draft bill for the Entertainment Complex Act. If passed, the law will legalize casinos in the country.

Las Vegas Sands Corp., Wynn Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, MGM China Holdings, and Hard Rock Cafe are the major players keen on entering the Thai market. Continued …

Thailand’s Digital Wallet Scheme: The Future of Money

Thailand has launched a ground-breaking digital wallet stipend scheme for eligible citizens, offering a potential glimpse into the future of money management. Chai Wacharonke, a Thai government spokesperson, highlighted how the program forms a pivotal part of a broader economic strategy aimed at boosting household consumption and GDP.

This effort seeks to address short-term economic needs, albeit with critics pointing out that it doesn’t tackle deeper issues like low investment. Continued …

Rising Temperatures Threaten Thailand’s Economy, Tourism, and Future

Thailand emits less than 1% of global greenhouse gases but ranks among the top 10 countries most severely impacted by climate change. This stark reality poses significant concerns over the country’s economic stability and long-term viability of its tourism sector.

A 2021 study by Swiss Re Institute projected that Thailand’s GDP could plummet by 43.6% by 2048 due to temperature increases of up to 3.2°C. This would have a profound impact on a country heavily reliant on agriculture, tourism, and fisheries. Continued …

Thailand’s electric vehicle sales poised for a new surge

Thailand is rapidly becoming an electric vehicle manufacturing hub, attracting investment from companies like BYD and BMW through incentives. EV sales surged, aiming for 30% production by 2030.

Government policies, such as tax incentives, emissions regulations, and infrastructure investments, are encouraging automakers to accelerate the transition toward electric vehicles (EVs). This shift in the global automotive market equilibrium is favoring the increased adoption and production of EVs over traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

66% of Thai job seekers open to international relocation

Insights at both global and national levels have been uncovered through the Global Talent Survey 2024, created by JobStreet and Jobsdb under SEEK, in collaboration with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and The Network as the global partner.

This research aims to understand shifts in work locations and the desired work styles of global talent, gathering input from around 150,000 participants across 180 countries. The global survey results are based on a large and diverse sample, covering key job seeker markets. Continued …

Unemployment hits 9-month high

The unemployment rate in Thailand has reached a nine-month high of about 2% of registered workers, as the country struggles to deal with slow economic growth and more factory shutdowns, according to the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry (EconThai).

The group’s calculation is based on registered workers under Section 33 of the Social Security Act, which refers only to employees who had been working for companies. It does not include freelancers. Continued …

Move sought for Nakhon Nayok nuclear project

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has recommended that the government relocate a planned 20-megawatt nuclear reactor from Nakhon Nayok and provide more detailed information about the project to the public.

This recommendation follows a petition lodged by the Nakhon Nayok Citizen Assn. in April 2022, which said the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT) may not have adhered to human rights principles in carrying out the project, according to NHRC member Sayamol Kaiyoorawong. Continued …

Thai Airways keen to invest in EEC maintenance, repair, overhaul center

Thai Airways International (THAI) reiterated its commitment to invest in the Eastern Economic Corridor maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) project, while seeking clarity in the conditions to move forward, THAI CEO Chai Eamsiri told a media briefing on Friday.

The airline was currently negotiating and discussing with numerous potential partners from both domestic and international companies, he said. However, it is still too early to outline the details because THAI Airways is awaiting concrete conditions from Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO). Continued …

New oil platform close to startup offshore Thailand

Valeura Energy expects production to begin shortly through the MOPU Nong Yao C in license G11/48 in the Gulf of Thailand. It should increase the company’s share of oil production from the greater Nong Yao area to about 11,000 bbl/d at peak.

Last month, two new infill wells drilled from the Nong Yao A facility came onstream. All six horizontal development wells have been drilled for the new Nong Yao C project, with one of the appraisal wells set to be converted to a seventh producer. Continued …

Visa-free entry for Chinese nationals has many consequences

The Thai government’s decision to encourage visa-free travel for Chinese nationals has certainly boosted their numbers. They are now estimated to be around 35,000 per day as flights increase from more cities in China. The overall volume is either back to pre-covid days or has even surpassed it.

Although the boost to Thai tourism and to government coffers is obvious, there are other features about the move. Recent advertising signs in Bangkok and Rayong, written exclusively in the Chinese language, have been removed by Thai local authorities but clearly illustrate a new market trend. Continued …

Chinese ‘market-busting tours’ new threat to Thai tourism industry

Chinese investment is increasingly influencing various sectors of the Thai economy, particularly tourism and services, and the evolving marketing strategies to attract Chinese tourists are of particular interest.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set a goal of attracting 11 million Chinese visitors in 2025, a return to pre-pandemic levels. However, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) warns of challenges posed by small-scale Chinese investors in the tourism sector. Continued …

Tourism buoyant again, 38 million expected this year

The government expects the tourism industry to generate about 2.8 trillion baht in revenue for the country this year, with the number of foreign tourists expected to total nearly 38 million, said government spokesman Chai Wacharonke.

Thailand is forecasting 20.47 million foreign visitors in the second half of this year, bringing the total to 37.97 million, a 34.88% increase from last year. Continued …

Parks meet 2-billion-baht target

The National Park Office earned 2 billion baht in revenue over the past 10 months, its director announced yesterday, already surpassing its target for the 2024 fiscal year, which ends in September.

National Park Office Director Chaiwat Limlikhitaksorn said the total revenue was expected to exceed 2.15 billion baht in the remaining 52 days, or until Sept. 30. Continued …

Olympians to star in tourism campaigns

All Thai athletes competing in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, including the medallists, will become sports tourism ambassadors to showcase their hometowns, both in key and second-tier provinces.

“The ministry’s key mission is to use sports to enhance tourism, distributing income to local communities,” Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanit said on Friday. Continued …

Culinary Chronicles: Thailand

Learn how Thai dishes balance the distinct flavors of sweet, sour, salty, and spice on this episode of Culinary Chronicles. Video …

Bookmark These 8 Best Indian Restaurants In Pattaya

The comfort and foodgasms after relishing a delectable Indian food spread is just out of the world. Especially, when you stumble upon a classic Indian restaurant when visiting abroad!

The feeling of indulging in either home-cooked or lavish Indian food touches your soul after continuously trying new local foods abroad. Visiting Pattaya? Then don’t skip on these best Indian restaurants: Continued …

Russia declares an emergency in Kursk, under attack by Ukraine

Russia declared a “federal-level” emergency in the Kursk region following a large-scale incursion from Ukraine and sent reinforcements there on Friday, four days after hundreds of Ukrainian troops poured across the border in what appeared to be Kyiv’s biggest attack on Russian soil. Continued …

Israel strike on Gaza school kills over 100

More than 100 Palestinians were killed and dozens wounded in an Israeli strike on a Gaza school sheltering displaced people, the official Palestinian news agency said on Saturday, while the Israeli army said it had hit a Hamas command center. Continued …

Shanghai to fully switch to new energy buses, taxis by 2027

Shanghai is set to overhaul its bus and taxi services, completely switching to new energy vehicles (NEVs) by the end of 2027, according to the city’s latest work plan update concerning transportation infrastructure and equipment. Continued …

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, cha am, exports, hua hin, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Aug 7

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Hua Hin to sterilize 150 monkeys/Hua Hin Olympic kite surfers/Motorcycle crash in Cha Am/American father reunites with Thai daughter/Solar Panel Installation Costs/Minister stifles info on blackchin tilapia/Monk donates lottery win/Wild elephant electrocuted/Hidden costs of fashion/Thai police seize vaping products/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Baht faces volatility/Investor confidence index bearish/Inflation up in July/Poll paints glum picture/Wary eye on world/Exports expected to grow 1%-2%/Hyundai to invest $28M/Tesla Cancels EV Factory/Rail freight business prospering/Waste into valuable resources/Tourism: The New Chinese Tourism Market/Budget for tourism promotion/Tourists rescued from flooded cave/Thailand Experience: Rice terraces inspiring flood control/International/Links: Climate Thailand/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

Hua Hin to sterilize 150 monkeys

Continued …

 

 

Hua Hin Olympic kite surfers wait on wind

Continued …

 

 

Motorcycle crash in Cha Am kills elderly man, injures woman

An accident occurred when a young woman riding her motorcycle against traffic collided with another motorcycle, resulting in the death of the other rider. The incident left the victim’s family grieving at the scene.

Yesterday, Police Lt, Kancha Klao Viriyadechawat, an investigator at Cha Am Police Station, received a report of a motorcycle collision on Phetkasem Road, inbound to Bangkok, in the Huay Sai Tai community of Cha Am municipality. Rescue teams from Cha Am Hospital and Sawang Sanphet Rescue Unit rushed to the scene. Continued …

American father reunites with Thai daughter after 48 years apart

A 72-year-old American man traveled across the globe to reunite with his Thai daughter after being separated for 48 years. With assistance from a friend with a Thai wife and a renowned hotel owner in Nang Rong, Buriram, the father and daughter finally met, embracing each other with tears of joy.

Terry Howley and 49-year-old Kanjana Milkewicz, from Yai Yam Watthana, Chaloem Phra Kiat district, Buriram, had been separated for nearly five decades. Despite the long separation, both father and daughter never gave up hope of finding each other. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Solar Panel Installation Costs in Thailand

Installing solar panels in Thailand in 2024 is a smart and worthwhile investment. With long-term benefits such as reduced electricity bills and increased government support, this green energy solution is gaining popularity.

Technological advancements have also made solar panel installations more efficient and cost-effective. The keyword “ราคาติดตั้งโซล่าเซลล์”, or solar panel installation costs, is crucial for those considering this eco-friendly upgrade. Continued …

Minister stifles info on blackchin tilapia

Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow has cautioned the Department of Fisheries not to release further information about the controversial blackchin tilapia fish issue, saying it has become a legal matter under court consideration.

Thamanat said the ministry would not release any information to the public, including its investigation results, until legal procedures being carried out by the Supreme Administrative Court were complete. Continued …

Nakhon Phanom monk donates 18 million baht lottery win

A monk’s extraordinary luck has become the talk of the town in Nakhon Phanom province after winning a lottery jackpot of 18 million baht, generously distributing his winnings to the needy and local temples.

After a ceremony at Wat Phra That Phanom, Phra Khru Kai announced his lottery win, revealing he had won first prize with ticket number 061905. The windfall, amounting to 18 million baht, was entirely donated to the underprivileged and temples within That Phanom district within just one week. Continued …

Wild elephant found dead from electrocution in Ranong sanctuary

A wild elephant was found dead from electrocution at the radar hill in the Thungraya-Nasak Wildlife Sanctuary in Ranong province. The elephant, believed to have pulled down a tree that fell on high-voltage power lines, was discovered by local government officials who are now working to protect the remaining five elephants in the area.

Chawakun Sithisak, deputy inspector of Muang Chumphon Police Station, and Thana Thongsamui, head of the wild elephant surveillance team at Namtok Ngao National Park, along with officials from the Thung Raya-Nasak Wildlife Sanctuary and veterinarian Piya Serirak from the Office of Conservation Area Management 4, inspected the site Monday. Continued …

The hidden costs of fashion

When Thammika Songkaeo, a co-founder of the Singapore-based company Two Glasses, saw people around her with big boxes of clothes for donation, she wondered, who wanted used clothes?

“I lived in many places, including Africa, India, Thailand and Singapore. People in these places did not lack clothing. Many people have too many clothes and they try to solve the problem by donating without thinking what happens afterwards,” Thammika, who is based in Singapore, said. Continued …

Thai police seize 5 million baht worth of vaping products in Bangkok

Thai police dismantled a major online vaping operation, seizing over 24,000 items from a townhouse in Din Daeng, Bangkok. Officers described it as the largest bust of its kind this year.

The raid, conducted yesterday, was led by high-ranking officials, including Nirandon Lueamsri, deputy commissioner of police, and Thanakrit Jittareerat, assistant to the minister of Public Health. They announced the arrest of individuals involved in the illegal sale of electronic cigarettes via online platforms. Continued …

Kuwaiti Man Crashes into Thai Riders in Motorcycle Accident

Continued … 

Baht faces volatility with US under pressure to cut rates

The baht is expected to experience higher volatility and a weaker trend this week, pressured by uncertainties surrounding the U.S. dollar and the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy direction. The Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri) forecasts the baht will move in a range of 35-35.75 baht per dollar this week.

The key factors influencing the baht’s movement are the depreciation and volatility of the dollar, which are driven by updated U.S. economic data and the monetary policy direction of the U.S. Federal Reserve. Continued …

Investor confidence index turns bearish in July

The Federation of Thai Capital Market Organizations’s (FETCO) Investor Confidence Index (ICI) retreated to the bearish zone last month, dragged down by concerns over intensified geopolitical conflicts, the direction of the Federal Reserve (Fed) and Thailand’s slowing economy.

Chairman Kobsak Pootrakool revealed that the ICI for July, which anticipates market conditions over the next three months, was 60.40, entering the bearish zone. Continued …

Inflation up in July, above forecast

Thailand’s headline consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.83% in July from a year earlier, after the previous month’s annual increase of 0.62%, the Commerce Ministry said on Wednesday.

The July figure compared with a forecast increase of 0.70% in a Reuters poll, and remained below the Bank of Thailand’s (BoT) target range of 1% to 3%. Continued …

Federation of Thai Industries poll paints glum picture of second half

Most executives under the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) say the economy during the second half will not improve much, with GDP growth likely to be less than 2% for the whole year, despite the state’s efforts to speed up budget spending, according the latest FTI survey.

“Up to 39.3% of 143 executives interviewed believe business performance and sales will remain unchanged in the second half of 2024,” said ML Peekthong Thongyai, vice chairman of the FTI. Continued …

Thailand casts a wary eye on world

The Thai government is closely monitoring U.S. economic prospects and the potential for a global recession, while also stepping up its plans to mitigate the impact on exports.

According to Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, the Commerce Ministry has been continuously monitoring economic prospects in the U.S., which are raising concerns about the risk of entering a recession, causing global market apprehension and significant downturns. Continued …

Exports expected to grow 1%-2%

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) expects the value of exports to expand by 1%-2% this year.

However, the TNSC is cautious about numerous unpredictable factors in the second half, including geopolitical conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, the trade war between the U.S. and China, the U.S. presidential election, the U.S. labor movement, and higher freight and surcharge costs. Continued …

Hyundai to invest $28M in Thailand for EV assembly, batteries

South Korean auto maker Hyundai Motor Co. will invest 1 billion baht (US$28 million) to set up a facility to assemble electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries in Thailand, the country’s Board of Investment (BOI) said on Wednesday.

Thailand’s booming EV sector is currently dominated by Chinese carmakers, including BYD (Build Your Dreams) and Great Wall Motors, which are using the country as a manufacturing base for exporting vehicles across Southeast Asia. Continued …

Tesla Cancels Plan for EV Factory in Thailand

Electric vehicle giant Tesla has scrapped its plans to establish a manufacturing plant in Thailand. This development comes as part of a broader strategic shift impacting their global expansion plans outside of key hubs in China, the U.S., and Germany.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had announced Tesla’s intended investment of over $5 billion to make Thailand a hub for its EV manufacturing. The announcement followed several high-level meetings between Tesla executives and Thai officials, both in Thailand and the United States. Continued …

LEO sees rail freight business prospering

Rail freight between China and Thailand offers potential for growth, driven by the increasing number of Chinese firms opening factories in Thailand, according to MAI-listed LEO Global Logistics.

“As more and more Chinese companies open a factory in Thailand, this will benefit our rail freight business,” said Kettivit Sittisoontornwong, chief executive of LEO Global Logistics. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

UPCYDE turns waste into valuable resources

Mild Karoon-ngampun graduated from INDA, the International Program in Design and Architecture at the Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, and has worked as a landscape architect. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Mild turned to help her family business, a manufacturer for famous local and global shoes brands for more than 60 years.

As a third-generation member, Mild made a big change, transforming wastes into valuable products. She founded UPCYDE, a name that embodies science, design, and upcycling. It represents commitment to combining innovative scientific approaches with creative design thinking to upcycle waste into valuable resources. Continued …

Opportunities for Thailand in the New Chinese Tourism Market

The revival of Chinese tourism continues to be a central concern for Thailand’s tourism sector. As the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand steadily increases, the scale of this resurgence is keenly observed by Thai tourism authorities, especially after the slight recovery observed in 2023, the first year since the country’s reopening.

In 2024, Chinese outbound tourism saw positive signs of recovery, with Thailand remaining the primary destination for Chinese tourists. Chinese tourists reclaimed the top position in terms of numbers visiting Thailand. However, the recovery trend for Chinese tourists traveling to Thailand still faces risks from various factors such as China’s economy, real estate, geopolitics, and competition from other countries like Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam. Continued … 

Cabinet okays Bt433 million budget for tourism promotion

The cabinet has approved a budget of 433 million baht for the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to promote tourism during the low season through online promotions and events.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) also hopes to increase domestic tourism revenue by as much as 20% to 1.2 trillion baht this year to mitigate the risk from over-dependence on international markets. Continued …

Tourists rescued from flooded cave, guide drowned

A tour guide drowned when a flash flood swept into Nam Talu cave in Khao Sok National Park as a group of tourists was leaving it on Tuesday evening. The 22 foreign tourists and a second guide had a lucky escape from the torrent, and without serious injury.

The cave, next to the Rajjaprabha dam reservoir in Phanom district, is closed to the public from June to November each year, the wet season, because of the danger of flooding. Continued …

How Asia’s 5,000-year-old rice terraces are inspiring modern flood control

One of Kotchakorn Voraakhom’s most memorable moments growing up in Bangkok in the 1980s was playing in floodwaters in a small boat built by her father in front of her home. “I was so happy that I didn’t need to go to school because we didn’t know how to get to it,” recalls Voraakhom, a landscape architect based in the Thai capital.

But nearly 30 years later, flooding turned from a fun childhood recollection to a devastating experience. In 2011, Voraakhom and her family – along with millions of others in Bangkok – found themselves “displaced and homeless” when floods ploughed through swathes of Thailand and poured into the metropolis. Continued …

Most Asian markets revive after global selloff

Japanese equities powered higher on Tuesday, leading a global rebound as they retraced some of the losses sustained in a rout on Monday that erased billions across markets from New York to London. Continued …

Kamala Harris Is Now Democratic Presidential Nominee, Will Face off Against Donald Trump

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, a daughter of immigrants who rose through the California political and law enforcement ranks to become the first female vice president in U.S. history, formally secured the Democratic presidential nomination on Monday — becoming the first woman of color to lead a major party ticket. Continued …

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