Category Archives: chiang mai

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-March 9

  • Holiday weekend brings Bt548M to province/
  • Officials launch anti-smoking and jellyfish awareness campaign on Khao Takiab/
  • Bully on the Beach at Bluport March 25/
  • Arkhom cools concern over inflation, economy overheating/
  • Over 1.3 Million Air Pollution Cases So Far This Year/
  • Chiang Mai to hand out face masks as dust from fires hits hazardous levels/
  • Burning rubbish set for big fines as Nakhon Phanom smog unbearable/
  • Fighting Thailand’s wildfires from the sky/
  • New climate study raises alarm for Asian megacities/
  • Illegal Chinese investment suspected in 6 Chiang Mai property projects/
  • New Chao Phraya bridge to open in 2024
  • Bangkok to Chiang Mai high-speed rail project gears up/
  • CoorsTek Selects Solar System at Rayong Manufacturing Facility/
  • Five hunters sentenced to nearly 5 years in prison for killing tiger and its cub/
  • HelloFresh Drops Thai Coconut Milk After PETA’s Monkey Labor Drive/
  • Opinion: Weed bounty may go to pot/
  • Tourism: 25-30 million foreign arrivals expected – tourism minister/TAT anticipates 6m European visitors this year/Chinese tourists, infatuated with Thai school uniforms, given warning/
  • Thailand Experience: Women make their mark in Thai gastronomy/Hok Peng Festival in northern province of Nan reveres ancient relics/
  • Covid: Covid-19 drug now free of charge/
  • International: Women march as rights under threat across the globe/’Rapid’ and ‘unprecedented’ rise in ocean plastic reported since 2005/Russian military too deficient to make major gains, US spy chief says/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Holiday weekend brings Bt548M to province

The recent long weekend in Prachuap Khiri Khan province brought bustling tourism and generated revenue of over 548 million baht, according to data from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Atchawun Kongkapan, director of Tourism Authority of Thailand, Prachuap Khiri Khan office, said during the recent long holiday weekend, the tourism atmosphere in the Prachuap Khiri Khan province was lively and that hotel occupancy rate during the long weekend was around 70%-80% on average.

Most Thai tourists were families, groups of friends and young couples, while foreign tourists mainly came from Germany, England, France, China, Korea, and Japan. Continued …

Officials launch anti-smoking and jellyfish awareness campaign on Khao Takiab

Officials visited Hua Don beach in Khao Takiab on Tuesday to launch a new anti-smoking and jellyfish awareness campaign.

The campaign aimed to educate tourists about the harmful effects of smoking on the environment, as well as raise awareness about the dangers of jellyfish in the sea.

The Smoke-free Beach project, initiated by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Region 3 (DMCR 3), seeks to reduce cigarette litter on beaches and promote designated smoking areas. Continued …

 

Arkhom cools concern over inflation, economy overheating

The economy is not overheating and authorities can control inflation rates, says Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith.

He said the pace of Thailand’s economic growth was accelerating, unlike in other countries, and he hopes the rebound in the tourism sector will propel the growth momentum.

Arkhom said inflationary pressure was not caused by the demand side, but rather by rising energy prices. Continued …

Over 1.3 Million Air Pollution Cases So Far This Year

There were as many as 1,325,838 air pollution related cases in Thailand during Jan. 1-March 5 this year, with the public warned that airborne particles known as PM2.5 could lead to cardiovascular disease and lung cancer, while 31,081 people died from exposure to toxic airborne dust in 2019, according to the Public Health Ministry.

Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, the ministry’s permanent secretary, said of 1,325,838 air pollution cases recorded during this period 196,311 showed up this week, up from 161,839 last week.

This week has also seen a jump in respiratory cases to 583,238, up from 85,910 last week; skin infections soaring to 267,161 cases, up from 35,878 last week; eye infections climbing to 242,805 cases, up from 36,537 last week; and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases leaping to 208,880 cases, up from 33,413 last week. Continued …

Chiang Mai to hand out face masks as dust from fires hits hazardous levels

The Chiang Mai authorities in northern Thailand will hand out face masks to the public, as the province struggles with dangerously high levels of air pollution caused by persistent forest fires.

The fires are an annual problem between the months of December and April, when farmers set light to their fields to clear the land ready for the next crop cycle.

The government has temporarily closed several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in north and western regions because of the fires, and it is expected that cloud-seeding will be used from Saturday in some areas,. Continued …

Burning rubbish set for big fines as Nakhon Phanom smog unbearable

The northeast city on the banks of the Mekong suffocates under thick haze that landed on Tuesday, Nakhon Phanom is toughening up on residents who burn trash and greenery outdoors.

According to the city’s Office of Natural Resource and Environment, PM2.5 concentrations on Wednesday increased to 167 micrograms per cubic meter (mcg) in four districts that border Laos: Muang, Bang Phaeng, Tha Uthen, and That Phanom.

Any level beyond 50 mcg is dangerous, and chronic ailments including lung and heart difficulties have been related to long-term exposure. Continued …

Fighting Thailand’s wildfires from the sky

A joint agency mission is underway to fight the wildfire situation in the area of the Thung Salang Luang National Park of Phitsanulok Province.

Wildfires have been continuing since March 3, burning and spreading to the east and north along the highlands. With ground forces unable to travel to extinguish, the wildfire has the potential to burn thousands of acres.

Support was requested for KA-32 helicopters from the Department of Defense and armed forces, with the helicopters flying to draw water from the nearby Kang Wa-Kanghai basin, and dumping water over the forest fire to reduce the intensity of the fires. Continued …

New climate study raises alarm for Asian megacities

A new study that takes into account the effects of both climate change and normal oceanic variations predicts that by 2100 some of Asia’s major cities may be submerged.

Sea levels have already been rising as a result of rising ocean temperatures and record-breaking glacier melting brought on by climate change.

Yet, a study that was released in the journal Nature Climate Change provides new information, as well as dire warnings about the potential consequences for millions of people. Continued …

Illegal Chinese investment suspected in 6 Chiang Mai property projects

Police have begun cracking down on Chinese investment groups using Thai nominees to buy real estate in Chiang Mai.

Initial investigations uncovered six plots of land in the northern province suspected of being bought illegally by Chinese investors to build complexes, Deputy National Police Chief Surachet Hakparn told reporters on Wednesday.

Surachet spoke after meeting with officials from the provincial land office, immigration police, and local administration organizations following allegations that Chiang Mai land and real estate is being bought by Chinese companies using Thai nominees to avoid taxation under the Foreign Business Act of 1999. Continued …

New Chao Phraya bridge to open in 2024

Construction of the country’s widest river bridge, over the Chao Phraya in Bangkok, is expected to be completed next year.

The eight-lane bridge is being built parallel to Rama IX Bridge. It is a 2-kilometer-long cable-stayed structure, part of the Rama III-Dao Khanong-Western Ring Road expressway project. It was designed to withstand a tornado-gust wind speed of 270km/h.

According to the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT), this 6.6-billion-baht bridge project will relieve traffic congestion on the adjacent cable-stayed Rama IX Bridge, which is 35 years old and in need of repair. Continued …

Bangkok to Chiang Mai high-speed rail project gears up

Thailand and Japan are preparing to begin the first-phase construction of a high-speed rail project linking Bangkok with the northern province of Chiang Mai.

A feasibility study focusing on the economy and finance was reviewed at a recent technical meeting attended by the Department of Rail Transport (DRT), Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, Public Health Management Office, Office of the National Economics and Social Development Council, and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Continued …

CoorsTek Selects Solar System at Rayong Manufacturing Facility

CoorsTek, a leading global manufacturer of technical ceramics, has signed a long-term agreement with TotalEnergies ENEOS for a 1.5 megawatt-peak (MWp) rooftop and carport solar photovoltaic (PV) system at its 110,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Rayong.

Expected to generate approximately 2,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity annually, the system will realize significant cost savings for CoorsTek and reduce the company’s carbon footprint by about 840 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year.

CoorsTek broke ground on its Rayong, manufacturing facility in January of 2021 and began operations in January of 2022. The facility provides a critical production hub for the continued supply of CoorsTek high-quality engineered ceramics in Southeast Asia. Continued …

Five hunters sentenced to nearly 5 years in prison for killing tiger and its cub

Five poachers were each sentenced to a total of four years and nine months in prison and fined 5,500 baht, after they were found guilty of killing a tiger and its cub in March last year in the Thong Pha Phum National Park, in the western province of Kanchanaburi.

The five convicts were also ordered by the court to pay 750,000 baht in compensation to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

The men were caught in the process of preparing two tiger hides in Huai Pilok forest, within the territory of the national park, by a team of park rangers on a routine patrol. Continued …

HelloFresh Drops Thai Coconut Milk After PETA’s Monkey Labor Drive

Meal kit provider HelloFresh, which is based in Berlin, Germany, said it will no longer sell coconut milk sourced from Thailand, as it does not support any form of animal cruelty across its supply chain, the company announced.

The move is in line with many brands in the West that have stopped selling some Thai coconut products over recent years after campaigning by PETA, which said that it had investigated Thai coconut farms and found chained monkeys that were forced to spend long hours climbing trees and picking coconut. Abuse of primates was “rampant”, the group has said.

It also called on Thai government officials to investigate the abuse of the monkeys at these coconut plantations. Continued …

Opinion: Weed bounty may go to pot

Chuvit Kamolvisit’s latest controversial revelations that cast a further shadow over the government’s cannabis liberalization policy engineered by the Bhumjaithai Party should serve as a warning over the monitoring of such dispensaries, which have mushroomed in number after the government removed cannabis from the Category 5 list of narcotics in the Royal Gazette on June 9 last year.

The scene when health officials from the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine raided the “Chuweed Shop” – a cannabis dispensary that was surprisingly located in Chuvit’s Davis Bangkok Hotel, raised the question of double standards.

Would health officials have insisted on a closer look if Chuvit – who claims he just rents the space to the operator – had not attacked Bhumjaithai Party and Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul over alleged social problems arising from legalizing marijuana? Continued …

25-30 million foreign arrivals expected – tourism minister

Thailand is expecting to receive between 25 million and 30 million foreign visitors this year as its crucial travel sector rebounds, its Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said on Thursday.

The number compares to the record of nearly 40 million in 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic emerged.

The country had 4.2 million foreign visitors in the January-February period of this year, according to a presentation by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports at a business seminar on Thursday. Continued …

TAT anticipates 6 million European visitors this year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects 6 million tourists from Europe this year, roughly 80% of the pre-pandemic total, generating more than 420 billion baht as part of total revenue of 1.5 trillion baht by year-end.

“I am confident Thailand remains the top destination in Asia for European markets,” said TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn, while attending ITB Berlin 2023, one of the biggest travel fairs in Europe. Continued …

Chinese tourists, infatuated with Thai school uniforms, given warning

Chinese tourists wearing Thai student uniforms have been warned that they may violate the law if the names embroidered on their shirts match actual school names.

The image of a group of four Chinese tourists in Thai student uniforms, with their names embroidered on the shirts, has recently gone viral on social media. The four came from Hangzhou City and they bought the uniforms from a store in Bangkok’s Bang Lamphu market.

Rachapon Sirisakorn, a lawyer, said uesterday that, according to the Student Uniform Act B.E. 2551 (2008AD), if an individual, who is not a student, wears a student uniform to mislead other people into believing that he or she is a student may violate the law and may face a fine of up to 1,000 baht on conviction. Continued …

Women make their mark in Thai gastronomy

Yesterday was International Women’s Day and what better way to celebrate it than to honor the women in an industry that was once a man’s domain. Guru By Bangkok Post speaks to women who not only make a toque look good but have turned up the heat in hotel kitchens.

Having earned a culinary degree at Le Cordon Bleu in Sydney, Australia, Front Room’s Sarocha “Bua” Rajatanawin has worked her way up the career ladder from sous chef to chef de cuisine in the five years she’s been at the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok.

“Cooking was the equivalent of play to me as a girl and what I’ve enjoyed doing most of all since — it’s now my career without feeling like ‘work’”, she says. “After university, I completed the School of the Oriental Hotel Apprenticeship Program, then the Advanced Diploma of Professional Culinary Management at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts Institute, in Australia. Continued …

Hok Peng Festival in northern province of Nan reveres ancient relics

In the northern town of Nan last week, in 35°C midday heat, a colorful procession of villagers wearing distinctive ethnic attire made its way to Wat Phra That Chae Haeng down a lengthy staircase, aside which a pair of naga sculptures stood like guardians.

A number of classic wood litters carried replicas of a gold, bell-shaped pagoda, as well as various Buddhist offerings such as Lanna-style flags and khan dok trees, all to mark the return of the annual seven-day Hok Peng Festival.

As legend has it, Phaya Kan Muang built a 55.5-meter-high pagoda in 1353 to house Buddha relics, including hair and a left wrist that were obtained from Sukhothai. Every year, the Hok Peng ritual is performed to worship the relics ahead of the Full Moon of the sixth northern Thai lunar month, which this year fell last Monday. Continued …

Covid-19 drug now free of charge

The anti-viral drug molnupiravir has been included in the list of essential medications covered by the Universal Coverage for Emergency Patients (UCEP) Plus scheme, according to deputy government spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul.

The drug’s inclusion means Covid-19 patients can now get molnupiravir pills for free. Prior to its inclusion, which was approved by the cabinet on Tuesday, patients had to pay 15 baht for a 200-milligram dose of the anti-viral medication. Continued …

Women march as rights under threat across the globe

Women hit the streets from Kabul to Mexico City on Wednesday to mark International Women’s Day and stand up for rights that are coming under increasing attack. Continued … 

‘Rapid’ and ‘unprecedented’ rise in ocean plastic reported since 2005

The world’s oceans are choked with as many as 170 trillion particles of plastic, new research released Wednesday shows, and that number could nearly triple over the next few decades if nothing is done to stop the flow of pollution. Continued …

Russian military too deficient to make major gains, US spy chief says

The Russian military has too many deficiencies – including heavy casualties and an inability to replenish weapons and ammunition – to make “major territorial gains” in Ukraine this year, the top U.S. intelligence official told a Senate committee Wednesday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

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bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-March 7

  • Run for Hunger set Saturday at Monsoon Valley/
  • Campfire Fest on the Beach Saturday/
  • Crab festival set in Cha Am March 11-18/
  • Headline CPI up 3.79% y/y in Feb, less than forecast/
  • The hot season arrives: Thailand expected to be hotter this year than last/
  • Bangkokians urged to mask up, avoid outdoor activity as PM2.5 levels rise/
  • Haze and blazes hit North/
  • Why Thailand Needs More Women Sports Stars/
  • More cancer patients get health cover/
  • Abundant cash crops help make Thailand 2nd-biggest bioplastics producer/
  • Poachers who killed rare Tigers lenient sentence angers activists/
  • ‘Rare’ tiger — with three ‘even rarer’ cubs — spotted in Thai rainforest – video/
  • 47 smuggled monkeys intercepted on their way to China via Laos/
  • Why Are Russians Buying Real Estate in Phuket?/
  • General Election turns into a referendum on marijuana/
  • McDonald’s plans 300 million baht investment in Thailand/
  • Tourism: TAT unfazed by tourism giveaways across Asia/Northern Thailand tourism plan expected to rake in Bt2.38 trillion/
  • Thailand Experience: Camping at Ban Krang, at Kaeng Krachan National Park/One of the best locations for snorkeling near Hua Hin/-Journey through Vietnam, Thailand among top once-in-a-lifetime trips/The Secret To Tasty Photharam Grilled Bananas/
  • Covid: Covid hospitalizations in Thailand continue dropping/
  • International: Archaeologists in Egypt discover Sphinx statue related to Roman emperor/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Run for Hunger set Saturday at Monsoon Valley

Scholars of Sustenance Thailand (SOS Thailand) is organizing a charity walk-run to be held at Monsoon Valley Vineyard on Saturday.

The first annual “Run for Hunger” event will support the Scholars of Sustenance Foundation’s food rescue mission in Hua Hin.

By participating in this event, you’ll be taking a step toward reducing food waste and creating food security in Thailand. And, the best part is that the entire family, including furry friends, can join in on the fun! Continued …

Crab festival set in Cha Am March 11-18

Cha Am municipality has announced its crab festival – “Gin Pu Chak@Cha-am festival” will take place March 11-18 at Cha Am viewpoint. Expect lots of fresh seafood and local cuisine, live music, entertainment, shopping and much more.

Headline CPI up 3.79% y/y in Feb, less than forecast

The headline consumer price index (CPI) rose 3.79% in February from a year earlier, less than analyst forecasts, due mainly to lower energy and food prices, Commerce Ministry data showed today.

The reading compared with a forecast for a 4.18% rise in February in a Reuters poll, and followed January’s 5.02% increase. – Bangkok Post

The hot season arrives: Thailand expected to be hotter this year than last

The director of the Meteorological Office in Thailand has predicted that this year will be hotter than last, with four northern provinces taking the brunt of the highs.

Chompharee Chomphurat declared that the cool season is now over as of last Saturday.

The hot season will last until mid-May, she said. Continued …

Bangkokians urged to mask up, avoid outdoor activity as PM2.5 levels rise

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has advised residents to wear face masks and avoid outdoor activities after fine-dust levels climbed above safe levels in several areas of the city this morning.

Data from air-quality monitoring stations showed the level of PM2.5 – particulate matter under 2.5 micrometers in diameter – ranged from 61 to 93 micrograms per cubic meter (mcg) of air in 69 areas of the city this morning.

Any level above 50mcg is considered unsafe, as long-term exposure is linked with chronic diseases, including lung and heart problems. Continued … 

Haze and blazes hit North

Haze pollution is exceeding safe levels in 36 provinces, particularly in the North, while Bangkok and surrounding provinces will remain blanketed in smog for two more days.

Jatuporn Buruspat, permanent secretary for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, said on Monday that ultra-fine dust particles (PM2.5) have remained at critical levels in the North and the Northeast for the past week, as a result of slash-and-burn activities in forests and farms, with more than 2,500 hotspots found on both sides of the border. Continued …

Why Thailand Needs More Women Sports Stars

Professional sports have long been a male-dominated arena. Both regionally and globally, this prevailing domination of the playing field by men disadvantages women and girls from media to participation.

A European Union study of five countries found the percentage of media coverage for women’s professional sports was, at best, 14%, and, at worst, as low as 2%.

In some countries before the COVID-19 pandemic, 90% of girls were insufficiently physically active, with rates recently worsening. Gender inequality in sports – whether at school or at the professional level – is indeed deeply rooted. This inequality is a symptom of a broader social condition where women’s pursuits are undervalued across many currently male-dominated fields.

But Thailand is bucking the trend impressively. For starters, Thailand has a rich history of producing world-class athletes, and recently, Thai women in sports have been dominating both regional and global headlines. Continued …

More cancer patients get health cover

At least 250,000 cancer patients benefited from the National Health Security Office’s (NHSO) gold card universal healthcare scheme in 2022, up from an annual average of 100,000 beneficiaries in the five years prior, the office has said.

Dr. Lalitaya Kongkam, NHSO’s deputy secretary-general, stated on Monday that the NHSO has covered at least 12 billion baht in medical fees for cardholders – some 7% of the NHSO fund budget.

This amount may increase in response to increasing numbers of cancer patients, Dr. Lalitaya said. Continued …

Abundant cash crops help make Thailand 2nd-biggest bioplastics producer

With a yearly production capacity of 95,000 tons, Thailand is now the second-largest producer of bioplastics in the world after the United States, which produces 150,000 tons.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri made the announcement on Monday, citing data from the Thai Bioplastics Industry Assn.

Anucha said Thailand is close on the heels of the U.S. thanks to an abundance of cash crops like sugarcane and cassava, and hopes to boost its annual capacity to 170,000 tons soon. Continued …

Poachers who killed rare Tigers lenient sentence angers activists

Five defendants were all found guilty by the Thong Pha Phum Provincial Court of shooting at, luring, or removing wild animals from their habitat, acting cruelly toward them, all of which are separate offenses. The plaintiffs’ punishment was reduced in half as a result of their guilty plea. Initially, they received a 9 1/2-year sentence.

The court determined that the plaintiffs’ basis for filing the lawsuit, which was done out of retaliation for the Bengal tigers eating their cattle and to protect their property, was incorrect.

This serious issue is not only illegal, endangering the ecosystem and upsetting the natural order. Officials seized four guns, extra firearms, and further equipment, including 176 rounds of ammunition, two bottles of gunpowder, and one bag of gunpowder, from the five suspects to establish their intent to hunt wild animals and their capacity to survive for an extended period in the forest. Continued …

‘Rare’ tiger — with three ‘even rarer’ cubs — spotted in Thai rainforest – video

A mother tiger prowls through the muggy rainforest of Thailand, her three cubs close behind. Emerging from the brush, the cats pass by a trail camera before vanishing again.

The mother tiger and her three cubs were filmed walking through the Upper Western Forest Complex, the World Wildlife Fund said in a Friday, March 3, news release. This region is one of the last two areas in Thailand where wild tigers still roam.

Video 

The brief footage shows the tigress with two cubs behind her. A third cub emerges from the foliage a few seconds later. The mother crosses the foreground and leaves the camera’s view. Continued …

47 smuggled monkeys intercepted on their way to China via Laos

Thai wildlife officials and police intercepted a shipment of 47 macaque monkeys in a pickup truck Monday morning, at a checkpoint on Friendship highway in Non Sung district of the northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima.

The two men in the truck were arrested after the officials found the monkeys, which are believed to be being shipped to China through Laos.

The driver of the truck, Kritaya, reportedly told the officials that they took delivery of the monkeys in Ratchaburi province, to be delivered to a customer in the province of Nong Khai, opposite Vientiane of Laos, who would then have sent the monkeys on to China. Continued … 

Why Are Russians Buying Real Estate in Phuket?

On Oct. 30, an Ikar Airlines jet landed at Phuket International Airport with 449 passengers on board. The flight’s arrival in Thailand marked the resumption of direct service from Moscow after a break of nearly three years and opened the floodgates to a surge of winter tourism from Russia.

By late January, Phuket had welcomed 233,000 Russian vacationers, the single largest contingent of international arrivals to the island.

A local newspaper called the return of the Russians a “stunning comeback.” The unexpected influx helped Thailand’s tourism industry cross a coveted post-COVID-19 milestone of 10 million visitors in 2022.

The arrival of the “snowbirds” had far-reaching consequences for the local economy beyond tourism revenues. Last year, Russians became the leading purchasers of condominiums on the island, dislodging Chinese buyers from the top spot. Continued …

General Election turns into a referendum on marijuana

Cannabis policy is turning into an electoral nightmare for the Bhumjaithai Party, with growing public opposition to the recreational free-for-all and the easy access to it being seen throughout the country, something that is now being plugged into by opposition parties and activist firebrand Chuwit Kamolvisit.

This opposition is being bolstered by medical arguments suggesting both mental and physical health problems of a serious nature are linked to the regular use of cannabis.

In November, an authoritative Lancet published study showed firm evidence of mental health deterioration linked with pot use across all age groups but particularly among young adults, while just this week a study in California compared the use of pot to using tobacco, with both activities reportedly causing inflammation and impacting the body’s cardiovascular system. Continued …

McDonald’s plans 300 million baht investment in Thailand

Fast-food lovers will be lovin’ the latest news that McThai Co., the operator of McDonald’s restaurants in Thailand, just announced a massive 300-million-baht investment plan that will bring more McDonald’s outlets to the country. The company has upgraded its original plan from 200 million baht after seeing a rise in consumption and the economy.

According to CEO Kittiwan Anuwatesakul, the funds will be used to open 10-15 new restaurants, adding up to about 237-242 outlets by the end of this year. The new restaurants will be strategically located in high-demand areas.

More than 30 existing restaurants will also be renovated this year, featuring the latest store design concept with a focus on sustainability and simplicity. Continued …

TAT unfazed by tourism giveaways across Asia

Many countries in Asia recently announced giveaway campaigns to bolster their tourism industry, aiming to drive post-pandemic economic growth.

These include Hong Kong’s giveaway of 500,000 flight tickets to foreign visitors and Taiwan’s proposal to offer a cash incentive worth NT$5,000 (5,633 baht) per person.

Japan and South Korea, perennial favorite destinations among Asian tourists, also lifted most entry restrictions for all travelers and are poised to loosen tight curbs for Chinese visitors as the fear of Covid-19 subsides. Continued …

Northern Thailand tourism plan expected to rake in Bt2.38 trillion

The provincial Public-Private Economic Development Committee and the Provincial Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Office on Monday discussed a plan to bring 2.38 trillion baht in tourism revenue this year.

The talks, led by Chiang Mai Deputy Gov. Weerapong Ritrod, focused on the economy and tourism in the northern region.

Officials during the meeting agreed the recovery would continue during this trimester due to many factors, including the increasing number of foreign visitors after the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued … 

Camping at Ban Krang, at Kaeng Krachan National Park

Hua Hin has many appealing factors, and one of them is its close proximity to stunning countryside and nature.

Ban Krang campsite is located in the Kaeng Krachan National Park, which is the largest national park in Thailand, covering an area of over 2,900 square kilometers, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is a popular spot for campers who love to enjoy nature and wildlife. The campsite offers good facilities, including tent rentals, making it an ideal destination for a weekend camping trip. Continued …

One of the best locations for snorkeling near Hua Hin

The Hat Wanakon National Park in Thap Sakae district is now welcoming tourists during the Thai school holiday season in March and April.

The park, which includes small uninhabited islands of Ko Chan and Ko Thai See, offers one of the best areas in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province for snorkeling.

One of the main attractions of Hat Wanakon National Park are the coral reefs around Ko Chan and Ko Thai See. Continued …

Journey through Vietnam, Thailand among top once-in-a-lifetime trips

American magazine Travel+Leisure has called a journey through Vietnam and Thailand one of world’s 21 life-changing trips everyone should experience at least once.

“A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially foodies who love street eats,” the magazine said. “Thailand and Vietnam can easily be paired for an exciting trip packed with lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food.”

Thailand is famous for its golden pagodas, ancient ruins, royal temples and is a paradise of street foods, while Vietnamese cuisine has become better known around the world over the last couple of years. Continued …

The Secret To Tasty Photharam Grilled Bananas

“Photharam Grilled Banana”, known for its sweet, soft, sticky and charcoal-scented grilled bananas, is located on the corner of Song Praphat Street, in front of Photharam Shop, Photharam district, Ratchaburi.

The shop has been open for 19 years and has become a trademark of the area, so much so that there is a saying that if you have not visited Photharam Grilled Banana, you have not yet arrived in Photharam.

Poj Reungthep, 56, the owner of the shop, said he used to work as a leather sewer in Bangkok until the business collapsed. He returned to his hometown of Photharam. During that time, his younger brother, who owned a grilled banana shop at Mahachai Market in Samut Sakhon, brought him grilled bananas as a gift and told him to visit if he wanted a recipe. Continued …

Covid hospitalizations in Thailand continue dropping

The rate of Covid-19 infections is dropping in Thailand, with an average of 21 patients being hospitalized per day over the past week.

This number has dropped from about 29 patients hospitalized per day during the previous week, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) announced on Monday.

The DDC website said that 147 Covid-19 patients had been hospitalized from Feb. 26 to March 4, compared to 203 patients the week before. Continued …

Archaeologists in Egypt discover Sphinx statue related to Roman emperor

Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered one of the most important finds in decades in the southern region of the country. According to the antiquity ministry, a sphinx-like statue and the remains of an ancient shrine have been unearthed near the Hathor Temple, one of Egypt’s best-preserved ancient sites. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-March 6

  • Thailand’s Siripaporn wins World Women’s Snooker Championship/
  • Coral reefs off Ko Chan in PKK reported in excellent condition/
  • Doctor issues dire warning over PM2.5 crisis/
  • Four big banks announce service suspensions for maintenance/
  • Hearing into death of Wild Boar’s Dom scheduled for July 6/
  • Wild elephant uses trunk to flip passing truck east of Bangkok – video/
  • Prehistoric cave paintings found in Nakhon Ratchasima/
  • US soldiers receive Muay Thai lessons from Thai champion/
  • Friends fire 22 shots at each other at point blank range – both in comas/
  • Despite bad review, Kaeng som ‘still popular’/
  • Tourism: Travel demand fuels a boom in Asia Pacific — in hotel rates/Suvarnabhumi Passengers Urged to Arrive Early Amid Potential Delays/Khao San Road Opposing BMA’s Order To Remove Shop Signs/ Brit produces ‘Amazing Thailand Dance With Me ‘ video/Tourist attack: Former English teacher settles case for 50,000 baht/Irishman suffers life-threatening injuries in motorcycle accident/
  • International: New dam threatens Laos’ Luang Prabang’s Unesco status/Who is Li Qiang, successor of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang/China hikes military spending 7.2% in face of ‘escalating’ threats/Suspect shot dead, three arrested in Philippines’ governor assassination/France faces massive strikes over pension reform/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand’s Siripaporn wins World Women’s Snooker Championship

Thailand’s 23-year-old Siripaporn Nuanthakhamjan won the World Women’s Snooker Championship, held at the Hi-end Snooker Club on Saturday night, by defeating her Chinese rival Bai Yulu 6 frames to 3.

Competing under best-of-11 frames rule, the Chinese player won 3-2 in the first session, but lost in the second session,when Siripaporn displayed superb form by winning four frames in a row to clinch the crown.

Siripaporn became the second Thai woman to win the Women’s Snooker Championship, after Mink Saraburi who was the champion last year. She defeated Mink in the semifinals to win the ticket to meet Bai Yulu in the final. Continued …

Coral reefs off Ko Chan in PKK reported in excellent condition

The coral reefs located off Ko Chan and Ko Thai See in Prachuap Khiri Khan have been found to be in excellent condition.

A survey conducted by the Royal Thai Navy Survey Department revealed that the coral reefs were in good health, showcasing an array of beautiful coral species and marine life.

The survey was carried out as part of the reopening of the Hat Wanakorn National Park to tourists. Continued …

Doctor issues dire warning over PM2.5 crisis

The number of people getting sick from fine dust in the air rose in February, even though PM2.5 is already killing up to 40,000 Thais a year, Dr. Chaichan Phothirat, a respiratory expert at Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Medicine, said on Sunday.

He made the comments just hours before Chiang Mai was ranked the 6th most polluted city in the world – as of 1pm on Sunday, according to the website IQAir.

Levels of PM2.5 – particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter – have exceeded safe levels in Chiang Mai since February. Continued …

Four big banks announce service suspensions for maintenance

Siam Commercial Bank, Krung Thai Bank, Tisco Bank and Bangkok Bank have announced that some online or mobile banking services will be suspended for maintenance for an hour or more on a few days of this month.

Siam Commercial Bank said its Mae Manee application will be suspended during certain hours on March 10, 11, 24 and 25 for maintenance. Users will not be able to open the app or use it to receive payment. Continued …

Hearing into death of Wild Boar’s Dom scheduled for July 6

The sudden death of the young teenager pursuing his dream of learning to play football in the United Kingdom came as a huge shock after Feb. 14 following an incident two days earlier at his exclusive boarding school where he was a student since late last year in Leicestershire.

An inquest process began before the Coroner Court days later, which should, in the months ahead, provide a fuller explanation of the circumstances surrounding the tragic loss of Duangphet Phromthep.

Even after the ashes of Wild Boar football player Dom were returned on Saturday to Thailand, inquiries are ongoing in the United Kingdom into his demise, although a provisional cause of death has been furnished to the Leicester City and South Leicester Coroners court, which, at the end of February, set a pre-inquest review hearing in the case for July 6 without revealing the provisional findings. Continued …

Wild elephant uses trunk to flip passing truck east of Bangkok – video

A wild elephant in Chachoengsao’s Tha Takiap district wandered across the road, stopped a passing truck, and gently tipped it over on Saturday evening.

The incident took place in Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, east of Bangkok, and was captured on video from a nearby car.

It is thought that the elephant was hungry and had decided there might be food inside the truck. Continued …

Prehistoric cave paintings found in Nakhon Ratchasima

Ancient paintings of prehistoric people have been found on the walls of the Hin Perng cave in Thailand’s northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima.

Chaiyaporn Taptimthong, head of the Khao Phu Luang no-hunting zone, said that forest rangers found the paintings during their patrol to check animal shelters in caves in the So mountain range.

The paintings, depicting humans, animals and geometric drawings, were found scattered over the walls of Perng cave, he said, adding that he has informed officials at the 10th regional fine arts office.

Ancient cave paintings have previously been discovered in two caves in Si Khieu district and one in Soong Nern district. – thaipbsworld.com

US soldiers receive Muay Thai lessons from Thai champion

American soldiers received Muay Thai lessons from a champion fighter in Thailand during the annual multilateral “Cobra Gold” military drills hosted by the Asian nation.

Soldiers took instruction and punched and kicked alongside Thai champion Sombat Banchamek, or Buakaw (White Lotus) as he is widely known in the country.

“For every U.S. soldier who came to train in Cobra Gold, they also want to exchange and study our culture regarding Muay Thai, which is our national art,” Buakaw said. Continued …

Friends fire 22 shots at each other at point blank range – both in comas

Police in Klaeng, Rayong, on Thailand’s eastern seaboard, went to a house in Thang Kawian subdistrict after a shooting among friends at a drinks party at a house yesterday. They had been drinking since the previous evening.

Two men were lying with chest and abdomen injuries in pools of blood.

They were taken to Klaeng hospital where they are both in comas. Continued …

Despite bad review, Kaeng som ‘still popular’

Despite coming in 12th in TasteAtlas’ most recent Worst-Rated Dishes in the World, a distinction that sparked lively debate among Thailand’s netizens, vendors have reported no drop in sales of kaeng som.

The sour curry received an average rating of just 2.3 out of 5 from readers at the popular culinary website.

In the wake of the controversy, food vendors, nutritionists and kaeng som enthusiasts were asked if kaeng som really deserves such a measly ranking. Continued … 

Travel demand fuels a boom in Asia Pacific — in hotel rates

Finding a great hotel deal may be harder than ever before. Hotel rates are at an “all-time high,” Alan Watts, Hilton’s Asia-Pacific president, said.

Rates are being fueled by travel demand that is like “a feast … to offset the famine,” he said, referencing the pandemic.

“The most significant increase was recorded in Bali, Bangkok, Phuket and Singapore, with Bangkok topping the charts at over 70% and Singapore coming in at over 40%,” he said. Continued …

Suvarnabhumi Passengers Urged to Arrive Early Amid Potential Delays

Suvarnabhumi International Airport has started rolling out upgrades to its security screening facility at its departure terminal. The airport also warned departing passengers of potential delays, as checkpoints are partially closed due to this renovation.

Suvarnabhumi Airport has advised departing passengers of potential delays caused by renovation work at its security checkpoints where new equipment is being installed.

The airport is in the process of adding an automated tray return system at security checkpoints, where departing passengers are required to have their carry-on bags scanned for prohibited items. Continued …

Khao San Road Opposing BMA’s Order To Remove Shop Signs

Khao San road businesses have appealed to the Interior Ministry to coordinate with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration in putting off removal of shop signs and arrange a meeting to work out a solution to this issue.

Sa-nga Ruangwatanakul, president of Khaosan Business Assn., said these shop signs have been around for a long time and is the uniqueness of this tourist area, with foreigners liking taking photos of them similar to the signs on Yaowarat road. He also made the following points:

  • The signs do not cause a problem for the general public nor obstruct traffic. Conditions can be imposed on putting them up, such as having an engineer certify that they are sturdy; Continued …

Brit produces ‘Amazing Thailand Dance With Me ‘ video

A new song and video was launched today by Senator Weerasak Kowsurat the ex tourism minister of Thailand at the Hyatt Regency on Sukhumvit.

A magical piece of work by British Producer Will Robinson, known by many travelers who come to Thailand as “The Isan Project”, Will’s music and video creations continue to be popular among overseas visitors.

Video 

Following the success of his creations “Thailand Amazing Thailand, “This is the moment” and “Where the Eagles fly”. Will has penned this new gem with his co writer Daniel Ryan called “Amazing Thailand Dance With Me”. Continued …

Tourist attack: Former English teacher settles case for 50,000 baht

The case of a U.S. tourist who was handcuffed by a bouncer and slapped at a Khao San road pub has been settled with a basket of goodies and 50,000 baht.

On hearing that the tourist – Rodric Carkhuff, 34 – had gone to the central investigative branch of the RTP to make a complaint, the owner of “The Club Khaosan” turned up with local business leaders to settle the matter.

While the guard admitted using cuffs, it was stated that no knife was used. It was all a misunderstanding over a bottle of water. Continued … 

Irishman suffers life-threatening injuries in motorcycle accident

A young Irishman is the latest in a long line of victims injured in a motorcycle accident in Thailand without having any cover or insurance. How many more need to suffer fatalities or life-threatening injuries before they learn to drive properly or get insured?

Michael John Miller, from Knock in Mayo, is the latest man to suffer life-threatening injuries following a crash while traveling in Thailand.

Details of the motorcycle accident reported are vague but it appears Miller was riding from Chiang Mai to Pai when he crashed and was rushed to hospital with serious spinal injuries. Continued …

New dam threatens Laos’ Luang Prabang’s Unesco status

Waves of tourists are expected to flood back this year to Laos’ ancient city of Luang Prabang as pandemic travel restrictions end, but the cheer of economic recovery has been clouded by plans for a major hydropower dam just 25km upstream from the UNESCO World Heritage site. Continued …

Who is Li Qiang, successor of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang

Li Qiang is poised to be confirmed as China’s premier during the National People’s Congress, which began on Sunday, replacing the retiring Li Keqiang, who is widely perceived as a pro-market reformer who was increasingly sidelined as Xi Jinping tightened his grip on the management of the economy. Continued …

China hikes military spending 7.2% in face of ‘escalating’ threats

China said Sunday its military spending would rise at the fastest pace in four years, warning of “escalating” threats from abroad at a meeting of its rubber-stamp parliament that is set to hand Xi Jinping a third term as president. Continued …

Suspect shot dead, three arrested in Philippines’ governor assassination

A suspect in the assassination of a Philippines governor was shot dead in a shoot-out with police yesterday, while three others were arrested. The attack, which occurred in the heartland of the Philippine sugarcane industry, left 17 people injured. Continued …

France faces massive strikes over pension reform

French trade unions are heading for what is expected to be a decisive showdown with President Emmanuel Macron over pension reform, with massive strikes from Tuesday aiming to bring the country “to a standstill”. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Sunday’s News-March 5

1 Comment

  • Officials discuss forest fires, haze and drought in Prachuap Khiri Khan/
  • Municipality to set up designated areas for kite surfing on Hua Hin beach/
  • International Series Thailand returns to Black Mountain March 9-12/
  • PM2.5 surges again, Bangkok residents told to wear face masks/
  • Northern Thailand Ravaged By Toxic Smog PM2.5 Dust Particles/
  • Wild Boar Dom’s ashes come home/
  • Tourism: Exploring Prachuap Khiri Khan’s hidden gem, Thap Sakae/Thailand Considering Extending 45-Day Visa Exemption Until End Of 2023/
  • Thailand Experience: Discover the new shades of Thailand by visiting these underrated destinations/Thailand’s undiscovered gem: Sob Moei’s sea of mist/Will 5-star cannabis cuisine in Thailand catch on?/
  • Covid: Thailand spent Bt444B in 3 years to fight pandemic/
  • International: Digital consumers to propel ASEAN growth of 4.7%/Texas: Wind and solar stake claim to land of oil/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Officials discuss forest fires, haze and drought in Prachuap Khiri Khan

Officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province held a meeting to discuss solutions to a possible drought this upcoming hot season, as well as monitoring air quality in the province.

On Friday, Satean Charoenyuen, the governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, chaired a meeting of the Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee and the Drought Prevention and Response Operations Center.

Heads of government agencies and related organizations attended the meeting to follow up on measures to prevent and solve public emergencies in the area and to prepare for the drought situation in 2023. The meeting also addressed the current situation of forest fires, haze, and small PM2.5 dust particles. Continued …

Municipality to set up designated areas for kite surfing on Hua Hin beach

Hua Hin Municipality is expediting the regulation of kite surfing on Hua Hin beach to ensure the safety of tourists who may swim in the sea.

On Saturday, Nopphorn Wutthikul, the myor of Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, together with Apisit Khamphiroh, the director of the Regional Port Office Branch of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Jirawat Phramanee, the head of the Hua Hin Municipal Administration, Tourist Police and Provincial Tourist Assistance Center (TAC), inspected the beach after receiving complaints from tourists about water sports equipment that disturbed them while swimming in the sea.

Issues include construction of inappropriate structures, jet ski parking, and setting up tents in unauthorized areas, particularly the type of water toy, the kite surf, which is a nuisance to tourists while swimming. Continued …

International Series Thailand returns to Black Mountain March 9-12

The International Series Thailand golf tournament is one of the most prestigious golfing events in the region, and is set to return to Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin between March 9-12.

The tournament will bring together some of the best golfers from around the world to compete in a four-day event that promises to be a thrilling spectacle for fans of the sport. Continued …

PM2.5 surges again, Bangkok residents told to wear face masks

Bangkok officials have advised residents to wear face masks and reduce the amount of time they spend outdoors after fine-dust levels climbed above safe levels again on Saturday morning.

Data from air-quality monitoring stations found that the level of PM2.5 – particulate matter under 2.5 micrometers in diameter – ranged from 42 to 80 micrograms per cubic meter (mcg) of air in 53 areas of the city on Saturday morning.

Any measure above 50mcg is unsafe. Continued …

Northern Thailand Ravaged By Toxic Smog PM2.5 Dust Particles

The National Environment Board of Thailand states that after toxic smog pollution reached crisis levels in 17 northern Thailand provinces, the government will step up its preventive actions against toxic PM2.5 air particles.

According to Siwaporn Rungsiyanon, a spokeswoman for the Center for Air Pollution Mitigation (CAPM), since the middle of last month, slash-and-burn activities in neighboring forests and farmland have caused PM2.5 levels in the 17 provinces to exceed 100 micrograms per cubic meter (g/m3).

There, the air is thought to be much less safe than any PM2. A 5 level of more over 50 g/m3 is regarded as harmful. According to Siwaporn, the air quality in the north is currently at the fourth category of highest warning. Continued …

Wild Boar Dom’s ashes come home

The ashes of young “Wild Boars” footballer Duangphet “Dom” Phromthep were returned to the embrace of his grieving family in Thailand on Saturday following his sudden death and cremation in England.

Zico Foundation Chairman Kiatisuk “Zico” Senamuang, a former Thai national team star and manager, brought the ashes back on a Thai Airways flight that arrived at Suvarnabhumi airport around 6.30am. Continued …

Exploring Prachuap Khiri Khan’s hidden gem, Thap Sakae

Thap Sakae in Prachuap Khiri Khan province is overlooked by most travelers as they travel south down the peninsula. However, this hidden gem on the coast boasts beautiful white sand, a peaceful atmosphere and a community that has preserved the local way of life.

This long, narrow province features some spectacular coastline destinations along the Gulf of Thailand, including Hua Hin, the country’s oldest resort town, which is located just north of the provincial capital.

Video 

Although the rest of the province beyond Hua Hin is not a attraction, it is certainly rich in natural resources, including mountainous areas, islands, and elaxing beaches. Continued …

Thailand Considering Extending 45-Day Visa Exemption Until End Of 2023

The Thai government is currently considering keeping the 45-day visa exemption stamp that is currently in place and set to expire on March 31 for another nine months.

The 45-day entry for a wide number of nationalities was implemented on Oct. 1, 2022, to help stimulate the Thai tourism industry.

Most visa-waiver-eligible passports of western countries used to receive a 30-day entry stamp, which can be extended once for an additional 30 days at a local immigration office. Continued …

 

Discover the new shades of Thailand by visiting these underrated destinations

Whether an adventurous solo trip or a romantic vacation with a beau, Thailand has been one of the most highly preferred getaway spots for travelers for all ages. Thailand is largely unique in its own right, evident by its indigenous art, exotic destinations, and palatial Thai hospitality.

Even if you have vacationed in Thailand numerous times, chances are that there are many enchanting locations in the country that you may have not yet explored… and now you should! Here is a list of underrated locations that you should discover on your next trip to Thailand.

Hua Hin: Evolved from a small fishing village, Hua Hin is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and versatile tourist destinations. While most tourists and travelers remain unaware of its charms, this small town is home to pristine beaches, numerous water sports, activities, and a buzzing nightlife. Continued …

Thailand’s undiscovered gem: Sob Moei’s sea of mist

The sea of mist at the Glocelo Village in Mae Hong Son’s Sob Moei district on the Thai-Myanmar border is considered one of Thailand’s few undiscovered treasures.

Though the sea of mist can be admired from a viewpoint some two kilometers away, the experience is not as spectacular. The best season to enjoy the misty mornings and spectacular sunsets is in the cool season, between November and January.

To get to Glocelo Village, people can travel down Highway No 105 before taking rural road 3004 to get to Ban Lekho village. They will then have to tackle a winding, steep dirt road to Glocelo. Continued … 

Will 5-star cannabis cuisine in Thailand catch on?

Dinner began just like any other multicourse gastronomic odyssey at a five-star hotel, with an assortment of adorable appetizers. These were followed by a menu of delicacies such as Phuket lobster and prawn linguine, elegantly presented in swirls of foam, sauces and sautés.

But then the epicurean express swerved off the tracks. Things got goofy, but exactly where is tough to pinpoint. My notes taper off after the second course. Perhaps the marijuana cocktails should have served as a warning.

The arrival of pot-paired gastronomy is the latest treat in Thailand, which legalized marijuana in June 2022, allowing it to be smoked inside an individual’s residence and consumed in food at licensed restaurants. Continued …

Thailand spent Bt444B in 3 years to fight pandemic

Thailand spent a total of 444 billion baht (US$2.8 billion) on public health during the three years of the pandemic to contain the spread of Covid-19 and vaccinate its population, according to the Ministry of Public Health.

The cost of testing and treating people for Covid accounted for more than half the total spending at 260 billion baht, the ministry said in a statement Sunday. Vaccine procurement and distribution expenses were estimated at 78 billion baht, the ministry said, citing an internal study. Continued …

 

Digital consumers to propel ASEAN growth of 4.7%

A rapid increase in digital consumers is expected to be a major driver for Southeast Asia’s economy, which is projected to grow by 4.7% this year, according to consulting firm YCP Solidiance. Continued … https://www.bangkokpost.com/tech/2520154/digital-consumers-to-propel-asean

Texas: Wind and solar stake claim to land of oil

Modern Texas was built on oil, and its production has long been a source of immense pride. But now, areas that moved to the steady rhythm of oil derricks for more than a century are making the state a national leader in wind and solar energy. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s News-March 4

  • It’s about to get hot in Thailand/
  • Alcohol ban in Thailand on Monday/
  • 90% of hotspots in northern Thailand caused by human activity/
  • Thailand still pushing its unattractive LTR 10-year visa/
  • Draft Prostitution Law To Set Voluntary Service At Minimum 20 Years Old/
  • Calling anyone “nhoo” is not endearing, especially at work/
  • Ministry says Bangkok’s port is staying put/
  • Hatching leatherback turtles gets helping hand/
  • O’Sullivan, Mink headline Snooker Six Red World Championships in Thailand March 6-11/
  • Tourism: March Madness: Thailand prepares for a month of festivals and events/Chiang Mai Airport Records More Than 200% Increase in Passenger Arrivals/Crowdfunding your medical bills seldom works in Thailand/Centara expects revenue surge as Chinese return/
  • Thailand Experience: In the ‘Guilin of Thailand’, locals lead efforts to conserve ancient rainforest/Video: Why do Thais put sugar in noodles?/
  • International: UN: Myanmar junta ‘at war with country’s own people’/Twitter’s revenue, adjusted earnings down 40%/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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It’s about to get hot in Thailand

Thailand is bracing for scorching temperatures, as summer officially begins gtomorrow, with the season expected to last until around mid-May. Bangkok is expected to see record-breaking highs of 39C, the hottest since 2019.

Meanwhile, provinces in the north, including Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Sukhothai and Tak, are likely to see temperatures soaring upward of 43C, as forecasted by Thai government meteorologists.

Although Bangkok will experience heavy haze this month, there will be some cool morning winds in the north and northeast. The capital city can expect stable, sunny weather for the next week,with highs of 35C and progressively warmer evenings, with lows expected to rise from 23C to 26C by March 10. Continued …

Alcohol ban in Thailand on Monday

People in Thailand will observe the Buddhist religious day Makha Bucha on Monday, which also brings a 24-hour ban on the sale of alcohol.

One of the most important days in the Buddhist calendar, the sale of alcohol is prohibited at all venues, including restaurants, bars, pubs, hotels, convenience stores and supermarkets.

The 24 hour ban on alcohol is in place from 12:01am on Monday through to midnight. Continued …

90% of hotspots in northern Thailand caused by human activity

 

About 90% of the hotspots in northern Thailand are caused by humans and PM2.5 atmospheric pollution in the region is expected to increase before it gets any better, said Director-General of the Pollution Control Department Pinsak Suraswadi.

According to the IQAir website yesterday, Chiang Mai has the second worst air quality of any city in the world, with the quality measured at 177 on AQI, which means that the problem is affecting the health of everyone in the province.

Pinsak said that 90% of the hotspots were detected in conserved forests, with humans being the main culprit, adding that the problem trends worse from today until next Friday, with higher levels of dust reported in Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Sukhothai and Phitsanuloke. Continued … 

Thailand still pushing its unattractive LTR 10-year visa

The government of Thailand is once again, making unsubstantiated claims regarding its 10-year, multiple entry Long Term Residence (LTR) visa program.

The government still reckons the LTR program will attract one million foreigners over five years and act as a catalyst to boost the nation’s tourism and promote economic growth in Thailand.

According to VN Express yesterday, the secretary general of Thailand’s Board of Investment, Narit Therdsteerasukdi, announced that 2,800 foreigners have already applied for the new visas since its launch on Sept.1 last year, with retirees accounting for 35%. However, the figures just don’t add up. Continued … 

Draft Prostitution Law To Set Voluntary Service At Minimum 20 Years Old

A committee drafting a new law governing prostitution has agreed that voluntary sexual service without any criminal penalties should be allowed from 20 years of age.

Jintana Chanbamroong, head of the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development at Social Development and Human Security Ministry, said after presiding over a meeting of the committee drafting the new law that public hearings both online and on-site were held in five cities,including Bangkok, Chonburi and Hat Yai.

Focus group hearings were held before a conclusion was reached and a proposal tabled to Social Development and Human Security Minister Juti Krairiksh that a new law on prostitution be implemented. Continued …

Calling anyone “nhoo” is not endearing, especially at work

We have heard people expressing their frustration of being called “girls” at work along with many other workplace micro-aggressions related to race, age and gender in recent years.

Meanwhile, in the Thai language, people are also frustrated with a similar, yet a complicated cultural problem, which is being called “nhoo” (หนู), literally “mouse”.

In Thai, “nhoo” (หนู) is often used as a pronoun referring to young children in an “endearing” sense. Adults would use “nhoo”, as in “you”, when talking to children and, in return, children would call themselves “nhoo”, as in “I”, when talking to adults. Continued …

Ministry says Bangkok’s port is staying put

The Transport Ministry has poured cold water on a suggestion by the Bangkok governor to move Bangkok Port from Klong Toey district, saying it has plans to develop the facility into a green port.

According to Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt, relocating from Klong Toey to the Laem Chabang deep-sea port in Chon Buri could reduce the number of trips by freight trucks entering and leaving Bangkok Port by at least a million a year, which would cut road traffic and help ease PM2.5 levels.

He said City Hall would propose the relocation to political parties as a way of tackling Bangkok’s flood problems. By getting the port out of the capital, it would mean no more freight ships sailing up the river to hinder a future flood-prevention project he has in store. Continued …

Hatching leatherback turtles gets helping hand

It is past midnight on a beach in southern Thailand and 12-year-old Prin Uthaisangchai is anxiously staring at a leatherback turtle nest, waiting for scores of the endangered hatchlings to scrabble out from the sand. Continued …

O’Sullivan, Mink headline Snooker Six Red World Championships in Thailand March 6-11

Snooker fans in Thailand are in for a treat when many of the best players in the world head for Pathum Thani north of the Thai capital Bangkok for the Six Red World Championships 2023.

The venue is the Thammasat Convention Centre on the road that leads from Rangsit to the ring road.

Featuring 32 cueists including eight Thai players the event, not played since before the pandemic, runs from Monday to Saturday next week. Continued …

March Madness: Thailand prepares for a month of festivals and events

Thailand is preparing for a busy month of festivals and events in March, with the return of many annual celebrations that were put on pause during the pandemic.

March is a particularly important month in Thailand, as it includes the important Buddhist festival of Makha Bucha Day. This holiday falls on the full moon day of the third lunar month and celebrates a gathering between Lord Buddha and 1,250 of his disciples. This year’s Makha Bucha Day falls on Monday, March 6.

Thailand’s Hok Peng festival started on Feb. 28 and continued until March 1 in the northern Nan province. The festival is being held at the province’s Wat Phra That Chae Haeng temple. The festival, which celebrates the sixth Northern Thai lunar month, includes a range of Buddhist activities, a traditional market and shopping street, and cultural processions and competitions. Continued …

Chiang Mai Airport Records More Than 200% Increase in Passenger Arrivals

Chiang Mai International Airport celebrated its 35th anniversary on March 1, with a record more than 200% increase in passenger arrivals.

Vijit Keawsaitiam, general manager of Chiang Mai International Airport, Airports of Thailand, said on this occasion that Chiang Mai Airport has grown steadily over the past 10 years, reaching a record 11.3 million passenger arrivals in 2019. Only in 2020–2021, during the pandemic, did the airport see a decline in flight and passenger numbers.

Following the Thai and international governments’ decision to resume international travel, the airport has seen growth in flight and passenger arrivals again in 2022. Continued …

Crowdfunding your medical bills seldom works in Thailand

The current case of 23-year old British tourist, badly injured and totally immobile in Thailand after a fall from his hotel balcony, is an unfolding tragedy. His family needs a small fortune for an air ambulance to UK for a complex operation on the advice of doctors, illustrating the growing problem of huge medical bills in the Land of Smiles.

Medical insurance is optional for all tourists and most expats, but neither the Thai state nor foreign embassies will contribute a penny when ill fortune strikes. Understandably, public and private Thai hospitals customarily refuse to provide unfunded treatment. Their rules are insurance with a written commitment to pay or cash up front.

According to the monitoring portal Statista, there is a worldwide boom in charity crowdsourcing where friends, relatives and well-wishers are invited to make donations via the internet. But the average total donated is less than US$2,000, while the typical request via GoFundMe or Just Giving is for between US$30,000 and US$40,000. Continued … 

Centara expects revenue surge as Chinese return

Centara Hotels and Resorts (CHR) is aiming for revenue of 10 billion baht this year, exceeding the tally in 2019, with Chinese tourists expected to help the company gain momentum as it opens six more hotels in Thailand and Japan in 2023.

CHR Chief Executive Thirayuth Chirathivat said the company is optimistic about the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s forecast of 30 million foreign arrivals this year.

Thirayuth said most CHR hotels increased their room rates, as guests staying at its properties last year were not price-sensitive. Continued …

In the ‘Guilin of Thailand’, locals lead efforts to conserve ancient rainforest

The rangers move in formation, alert as they weave through dense foliage and wade across waist-deep rivers. The rainforest is loud with the siren calls of birds hidden in the canopy.

From afar, the group might be mistaken for a military unit. The men – some experienced and others as young as 19 – wear camouflage fatigues, grip rifles and mean business. But their success in recent years means they are more likely to be looking for elephants to monitor than poachers to catch.

The rangers form the forest protection unit of Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani province in Thailand’s south. Their patrol missions can last as long as 14 days as they venture deep into the wilderness. Continued …

Video: Why do Thais put sugar in noodles?

Why do Thais put sugar into their noodle soup when no other Asian country does it? The answer may surprise you and may relate to something much more pressing. (P.S., Don’t blame boat noodles for PM2.5) YouTube

UN: Myanmar junta ‘at war with country’s own people’

Myanmar’s military rulers now see civilians as their adversaries and are making war on the country’s own people, undermining the basic ability to live, the United Nations said on Friday. Continued …

Twitter’s revenue, adjusted earnings down 40%

Twitter Inc. has recorded a 40% decline in year-over-year in both revenue and adjusted earnings for the month of December, according to media reports. The news about fall in revenue comes after many advertisers cut down their spends on Twitter amid the uncertainty that followed the takeover of the platform by Elon Musk. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting

 

chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-March 3

  • Campfire Fest on the Beach March 11/
  • Hua Hin Boat Show at Racer Marina March 24-26/
  • Hua Hin Red Cross Fair set March 31-April 9/
  • Thailand issues 24/7 hotspot alert as thousands of fires deepen haze crisis/
  • Real estate trends to watch in 2023/
  • Merger perks coming for True, DTAC customers/
  • Telenor Asia anticipates $2.5B gain via True-DTAC merger/
  • Thai economic woes grow with a 10-year high trade deficit/
  • Industry panel does not expect a recession in Q1/
  • Go easy on fried dough, Thai tea, say health experts/
  • Experts ask for healthcare system reform to address new challenges/
  • PTT sees EVs as new revenue stream/
  • Tourism: Other Voices: Thailand bets on sustainable tourism/Will air pollution levels stall Thailand’s plans to boost tourism?/Pattaya gets set for Chinese despite concern/Fishing boat blockade causes chaos for tourists heading to Koh Lipe/Thailand launches free gastronomy tourism e-guidebook/Police say Canadian tourist lied about attack, started fight/
  • Thailand Experience: 6 ethical elephant adventures in Thailand/Best Stays in Thailand When You Want to Work Remotely/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin Boat Show at Racer Marina March 24-26

The first-ever Racer Marina Hua Hin Boat Show will take place in Pak Nam Pran from March 24 to 26.

The show will showcase a selection of boats, as well as a variety of marine accessories and equipment. Visitors can speak to industry experts, view boats and purchase the latest equipment from some of Thailand’s leading suppliers and brokers.

Several of Thailand’s biggest yachting companies are taking part in the event, including Simpson Marine, Asiamarine and Motorfield, while Suzuki and Tohatsu will also be at the show.

For more information; tel: 032 632 206.

Hua Hin Red Cross Fair set March 31-April 9

The Red Cross Festival returns March 31-April 9 on Soi 102 behind BluPort Hua Hin. The event features numerous food booths, OTOP shops, entertainment, games and entertainment.

Proceeds go to helping the poor, the handicapped and the underprivileged.

Thailand issues 24/7 hotspot alert as thousands of fires deepen haze crisis

Authorities have been placed on a 24/7 high alert for forest fires in the country’s northern, northeastern and central regions, as the number hotspots continues to rise.

Firefighters are on standby and agencies in risk areas are establishing war rooms at national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, under urgent orders issued by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation on Thursday.

Firefighters have also been told to ensure their equipment is in good condition. Continued …

Real estate trends to watch in 2023

Thailand has entered 2023 with a positive outlook economically and for the real estate sector in general. The property consultant CBRE Thailand has identified key trends to watch in the residential, office, retail, industrial, hotel, and industrial and logistics sectors. Continued …

Merger perks coming for True, DTAC customers

True Corp., the new company formed by the merger of True and Total Access Communication (DTAC), has vowed that customers of both brands will automatically receive cross-company privileges and other benefits from the tie-up.

The new entity has begun by offering privileges such as top-up bundling of all existing promotional packages as a favor to its combined 55 million mobile phone subscribers.

On Thursday, the company also announced it would give 10 gigabytes of free internet for seven days to all prepaid and postpaid mobile subscribers. Continued …

Telenor Asia anticipates $2.5B gain via True-DTAC merger

Telenor Asia expects a synergistic effect worth up to US$2.5 billion over the next three years from the mergers of True Corp. and Total Access Communication (DTAC) in Thailand, and Celcom and Digi in Malaysia.

Telenor Asia celebrated the telecom merger with a $20.7 billion enterprise valuation in Thailand, Jørgen Arentz Rostrup, executive vice president and head of Telenor Asia, said. He is also deputy chairman of True Corp., the name of the newly merged firm.

“Thailand is a tech-savvy market and one of the most valuable for Telenor. We’ll continue our investment in the region,” he said. Continued …

Thai economic woes grow with a 10-year high trade deficit

The chances of Thailand entering into a technical recession in the first quarter of the year rose on Thursday when the country’s exports for January fell by 4.5%, a sharper drop than expected, leaving the kingdom with a near-record trade deficit of $4.65 billion for the month.

The rising economic headwinds caused by heightened inflation in its export markets now leave the kingdom precariously dependent on accelerated foreign tourism growth this year.

Thailand posted its largest trade deficit in 10 years on Thursday when the Ministry of Commerce revealed that exports for January had contracted at a sharper-than-expected rate of 4.5%. Continued …

Industry panel does not expect a recession in Q1

Thailand will not enter a recession in the first quarter of 2023, thanks to tourism recovery, the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) said.

Thailand’s gross domestic product contracted by 1.5% in the fourth quarter of 2022 from a huge drop in exports.

However, the JSCCIB does not expect the economy to continue to contract in the first quarter of 2023, mainly because of the higher-than-expected number of tourists that were boosted by China’s reopening. Continued … 

Go easy on fried dough, Thai tea, say health experts

Thai people love their street food, but too much “pa thong ko” (fried dough) and Thai iced tea can be bad for you, says the Health Department.

The department’s Dr. Suwannachai Wattanayingcharoenchai spoke after TasteAtlas, an online food travel guide, put pa thong ko on its list of 10 best Thai dishes.

But a 100-gram serving of pa thong ko contains as many as 441 calories. Continued …

Experts ask for healthcare system reform to address new challenges

Despite Thailand gaining global recognition for its world-class medical and wellness facilities, lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic, rising health expenditure, and the surge in the aging population are putting increased pressure on future healthcare services.

Speaking at a recent seminar on “Health and Wellness Sustainability”, Associate Prof. Chanchai Sittipunt, dean of Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine, said that the government must reform the healthcare system based on people-centered health services in response to the needs and expectations of its population. Other challenges to be addressed are primary care, integrated care, and patient-centered care.

Nowadays, poor health is not only caused by known illnesses but by many factors, including PM2.5 pollution, emerging diseases, global warming and overflowing garbage. Non-communicable conditions, as well as a fast-growing aging population also affect health and become challenges for the future health system. Continued …

PTT sees EVs as new revenue stream

National oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc is angling toward becoming a new electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer in Thailand, as construction of its assembly plant in Chon Buri is scheduled to finish next year.

EVs are among the new S-curve businesses being promoted by PTT and its subsidiaries to create new revenue sources, said Buranin Rattanasombat, senior executive vice president.

These businesses have the potential to grow rapidly, he said. Continued …

Thailand bets on sustainable tourism

The coronavirus pandemic caused extensive pain and hardship for Thailand’s tourism industry, but now there may be a silver lining. Visitors are returning to enjoy a coastal environment that has had a chance to recover. Whale sharks and sea turtles are back, and the new buzz phrase is sustainable tourism.

Last November, almost 400 divers from around the world gathered for a special event at the popular beach resort of Phuket. Their task was to collect garbage from the sea in an initiative that would reap benefits for the environment and the tourism sector alike.

“We set up this event to create awareness among foreign visitors,” says Chiravadee Khunsub, an executive director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. “We want them to know Thai people prioritize conservation and sustainability now, after the pandemic.” Continued …

Will air pollution levels stall Thailand’s plans to boost tourism?

After an unexpected economic slump in the last quarter, Thailand is seeking ways to boost its tourism industry in a bid to negate the effects of falling exports. But the country’s air pollution levels can put a dampener on all its efforts.

In February this year, air quality levels in the capital Bangkok and its surrounding regions deteriorated sharply, with PM2.5 levels almost 14 times the recommended levels by the World Health Organization, according to a Reuters report. The pollution levels in the country still remain high, with the atmosphere hazy around many tourist hotspots.

As per a Nikkei Asia report, the Thai government and the tourism industry have promoted the dry season (from November to February) as the best time of the year to visit the country. But international tourists may “postpone their travel to Thailand, or worse, choose instead to go to a different country with cleaner air,” Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries told Nikkei while talking about the air pollution levels in the county. Continued … 

Pattaya gets set for Chinese despite concern

Pattaya has shrugged off concerns over Chinese businesses, including those using Thai nominees, partly because the tourism market from the mainland is slowly reviving.

Titipun Pettrakul, deputy mayor of Pattaya City, said the number of Chinese tourists remained relatively low compared with other markets, such as India, Vietnam and South Korea, the top three source markets at the moment.

Titipun said the city should wait until the second quarter to see a significant volume of Chinese arrivals. Continued …

Fishing boat blockade causes chaos for tourists heading to Koh Lipe

Over 100 fishermen parked their boats to block the waterway leading to Pak Bara Pier in La-ngu district, in response to the arrest of 24 fishermen for allegedly trespassing in Tarutao National Park. Protestors argue that the national park overlaps with commercial fishing areas, making the arrests unfair.

The Pak Bara Pier is a gateway to tourist islands, including Koh Lipe, Koh Adang, and Koh Ra Wi, as well as Tarutao National Park. Tourists are currently stranded on boats unable to dock at the pier due to the blockade, with some being forced to transfer to speedboats heading to Laem Te Ban Pier, an alternative route to Koh Lipe.

Meanwhile, tourists returning from the islands are having to detour to other piers to get to the mainland so they do not miss their flights. Continued …

Thailand launches free gastronomy tourism e-guidebook

The Thai government has launched a free guidebook to promote gastronomy tourism for Muslim and other foreign tourists, an official said on Thursday.

Deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the Thai and English versions of the e-book, “Muslim Friendly & Gastronomy Tourism Routes”, is available for free download.

Rachada said the guidebook from the Tourism Department of the Tourism and Sports Ministry aims to support self-drive tourism connecting 14 southern provinces, and extending to Malaysia, Singapore, and Batam Island in Indonesia. Continued …

Police say Canadian tourist lied about attack, started fight

A Canadian tourist has been charged for fighting in public before being reported to the Thai Immigration office after he first claimed that he was attacked and robbed.

According to Thai police, the man lied and had actually started the fight.

The Patong Police said Thursday that after a full investigation they found that William Lamarche-Saint-Louis, 28, a Canadian national, was not robbed as he said at first. The actual situation was a fight between Lamarche-Saint-Louis and beach vendors that spilled into a nearby beach restaurant. Continued … 

6 ethical elephant adventures in Thailand

Say no to cruel riding camps and animal performances, and visit one of these ethical sanctuaries that allow rescued elephants to thrive in their natural jungle environment.

1. Elephant Nature Park

The inspirational Lek Chailert (herself a Karen woman) has spent years supporting elephants across Thailand. Her excellent sanctuary currently hosts 118 pachyderms, many of them elderly retirees from logging or tourism. It allows day visits as well as week-long eco-volunteering stays. Where: Chiang Mai; more information.

Best Stays in Thailand When You Want to Work Remotely

The holiday blues are probably coming in strong right about now. Summer has come and gone and dreams of a lazy mid-year escape feel like a lifetime away. Throw in the fact that you’re probably out of annual leave and have even less cash than usual to splash on a luxe resort (#costofliving, amirite?), and any ideas about sipping a margarita on a sunny island are slipping away.

So, would you believe us if we told you we’ve found a single solution that will solve every one of your ‘I need to find a way to make money without eating into my holiday allowance while also enjoying a fresh cocktail’ dilemmas at once? Unofficial title: Operation Working Holiday in Thailand.

Start by doing the hard yards and figure out how that digital nomad thing works (note: we’re using the term ‘hard’ loosely here, because it’s actually pretty easy). Then, the only thing you need to decide on is where you want to base yourself for that first bowl of Pad Thai. Whether you dream of urban style or beachy chic, we chatted to Tourism Authority of Thailand and got their suggestions for the best accommodation options for those considering a remote working holiday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-March 1

2 Comments

  • Prachuap Khiri Khan ramps up ‘100% helmet’ and mandatory car insurance campaign/
  • Chiang Mai flights will operate four times per week/
  • Demystifying sticky Thai goods prices/
  • Baht tipped to strengthen in 2023 after US rates peak/
  • Chiang Mai listed in top 10 most-polluted cities in the world/
  • Excessive PM2.5 pollution in most of northern Thailand today/
  • Thailand’s interprovincial bus operator ready to go electric/
  • Telemedicine lays the pathway to equality in medicine, Bangkok forum hears/
  • Traffic cop delivers 100 babies on the streets of Bangkok/
  • Thailand to promote use of insect larvae for making animal feeds/
  • Finnish expat found dead with throat cut in Chon Buri/
  • Tourism: Hua Hin and Cha Am 2nd most popular destinations for Thai families/TAT suggests tourism operators still upbeat on recovery outlook/Danish and Swedish passengers stranded in Bangkok/Plush cruises eyed to boost tourism cash/
  • Thailand Experience: Top 3 Place For Jungle Trekking In Thailand/11 Indian restaurants to try in Bangkok/
  • International: Drones Fly Deep Inside Russia; Putin Orders Border Tightened/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Prachuap Khiri Khan ramps up ‘100% helmet’ and mandatory car insurance campaign

Drivers of cars and motorcycles in Prachuap Khiri Khan are the subject of a new campaign aimed at boosting road safety.

On Tuesday, Satean Charoenyuen, the governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, presided over the launch of a campaign to promote mandatory car insurance among motorists, as well as the wearing of helmets among motorcyclists.

According to the law in Thailand, all drivers must have car insurance, while motorcyclists must wear a helmet. Continued …

Chiang Mai flights will operate four times per week

Demystifying sticky Thai goods prices

Thailand may be unique in handling the domestic prices of products and services. Whenever manufacturers and business operators shoulder higher production costs and ask state units for permission to raise their prices, the Internal Trade Department always rushes to call a joint meeting with them.

Most of the time, the manufacturers and operators come to an “agreement” to maintain prices while authorities monitor the market.

In one recent instance, seven manufacturers and distributors of baby and adult diapers talked with the department and agreed to maintain prices, even after announcing to the local media their plan to increase prices starting in March, in line with rising production costs. Continued …

Baht tipped to strengthen in 2023 after US rates peak

The baht is likely to recover and strengthen to 33-34 to the U.S. dollar by the end of 2023, as the greenback could go into reverse and start to depreciate in six months, says SCB Chief Investment Office (CIO).

The Thai currency traded below 35 baht to the dollar yesterday, moving in a range of 35.15 to 35.38, amid continued concerns over U.S. interest rate hikes. The baht, analysts said, was under pressure from capital outflows from the Thai stock and bond markets amid the dollar appreciation.

The baht has weakened by 5.2% this year. Continued … 

Chiang Mai listed in top 10 most-polluted cities in the world

Chiang Mai and Bangkok were named the sixth and 14th most polluted cities in the world by IQAir in its latest global index.

The Swiss air-quality technology company released its list of the world’s worst polluted cities and their AQI (air quality index) readings as of 8.30am on Tuesday morning.

The top 10 worst polluted cities and their AQI readings are: Continued …

Excessive PM2.5 pollution in most of northern Thailand today

PM2.5 dust in most northern provinces today exceeds the safety level, being measured at between 61 and 200 microns. The situation is likely to deteriorate in the coming days, according to the Pollution Control Department.

The level of PM2.5 in most of Bangkok and its suburbs has been measured at between 39 and 114 microns, compared to the safety level in Thailand of 50 microns.

Only five areas in the northeast are reported to have excessive levels of PM2.5, measured between 23 and 130 microns. Continued … 

Thailand’s interprovincial bus operator ready to go electric

Transport Co.’s board of directors agreed on Tuesday to procure 75 electric buses for 12 routes across Thailand.

“The aim is to preserve the environment and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and PM2.5 dust particles,” Transport Co.’s Managing Director Sanyalak Panwattanalikhit said.

He added that the shift to electric buses also matches the Transport Ministry’s aim to develop transportation services that do not hurt the environment. Continued … 

Telemedicine lays the pathway to equality in medicine, Bangkok forum hears

The application of telehealth services in Thailand was the key topic of discussion at the Than x Forum 2023 held last week in Bangkok.

Telehealth, or telemedicine, is identified as the use of technology to provide healthcare from a distance without requiring in-person visits.

The objective of the forum was to let the world know of Thailand’s ambition to become a medical hub. The first step, however, will be turning Bangkok into a healthy city, so its people can also become healthier. Continued …

Traffic cop delivers 100 babies on the streets of Bangkok

Sporting big bikes, brown outfits and guns on their hips, Thai traffic police officers don’t look like your average midwives. But in gridlocked Bangkok, pregnant women don’t always make it to the hospital in time.

In a sprawling city home to nearly 11 million people, sometimes the only way to reach those in need of medical help is on two wheels.

A motorbike weaving in and out of the traffic will reach someone in need much faster than an ambulance. That’s why the 160 men comprising Royal Thai Police’s traffic unit are medically trained first responders. Continued …

Thailand to promote use of insect larvae for making animal feeds

The National Bureau of Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards will promote the use of larvae of black soldier flies as main ingredients for making farm animal feeds and pet foods for both local consumption and export.

Bureau Secretary-general Pisan Pongsapitch unveiled the plan during a seminar jointly held by the Livestock Development Department, and the Thai Feed Mill Assn. at the Rama Gardens Hotel in Bangkok on Tuesday.

The seminar was aimed at educating animal feed makers and farmers of black soldier flies about the regulations for using black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) in making the feeds and for exporting BSFL and feeds and pet foods that are made of BSFL. Continued …

Finnish expat found dead with throat cut in Chon Buri

A Finnish expat was found dead with his throat cut in Thailand’s Chon Buri province this morning. His Thai wife, 49-year-old Aranya Srisaeng, told police that she was the first person to find the body of her husband, 57-year-old Markku Tapanni Karjalainen. His death was reported at 8.30am.

Karjalainen had lived with Aranya in a single-story house in the Bang Saray subdistrict of Sattahip district.

According to Aranya’s statements, she and Karjalainen had been living together for five years without registering their marriage. Her husband had returned to Finland for a few years, but he came back about nine months ago and decided to buy a house. Continued …

Hua Hin and Cha Am 2nd most popular destinations for Thai families

Pattaya is this year’s most popular destination for Thai families looking to enjoy a domestic vacation together.

Based on early 2023 search data from digital travel platform Agoda, Pattaya tops the list and is joined on the podium by Hua Hin/Cha Am and Phuket.

According to Agoda, Thai families are most likely to enjoy some quality time around seaside cities this year. The full list of top 10 most-searched domestic destinations by families contains Pattaya, Hua Hin/Cha Am, Phuket, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chonburi, Khao Yai, Krabi, Rayong and Ko Samet, respectively. Continued …

TAT suggests tourism operators still upbeat on recovery outlook

Business operators still have confidence in the country’s tourism recovery as campaigns for the general election kick into high gear and the next phase of the “We Travel Together” scheme is projected to have the participation of more than 9,000 hotels, with the aim of stimulating domestic spending, says the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said there had been 2 million foreign arrivals per month since January, which helped build positive momentum for the tourism industry.

He said that with the launch of the fifth phase of hotel subsidy under the We Travel Together program, domestic tourism should be stronger during the Songkran festival and would also help maintain domestic consumption during the transition period before a new government takes over in the second half of the year. Continued …

Danish and Swedish passengers stranded in Bangkok

About 200 passengers from Denmark and Sweden were stranded at Bangkok airport after their flight from Krabi to Bangkok was delayed due to problems with the airport’s electricity.

The passengers were stranded because the flight they would otherwise have been on took off without them and there are no other available seats on flights to Europe.

Initially, Thai Airways, which is the airline behind the delayed departure, blamed bad electrical installations for the problems. Continued …

Plush cruises eyed to boost tourism cash

Authorities are looking at cruise ships to support the recovery of the tourism sector, which will also be boosted by a new plan to cooperate with Netflix in launching a creative travel guide to attractive locations featured in movies. Continued …

Khao Sok National Park

Top 3 Places For Jungle Trekking In Thailand

Thailand is popularly known for its mesmerizing beaches and delicious street food, but did you know that it also features some of the most beautiful and diverse range of rainforests in the world? If you’re an adventure seeker looking for a chance to immerse yourself in nature, then jungle trekking in Thailand should be on your bucket list.

With its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and beautiful scenery, Thailand offers a variety of trekking options for all levels of fitness and experience. In this post, we will take a look at the top three places for jungle trekking in Thailand that you don’t want to miss.

Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park, located in northeastern Thailand, is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s home to lush rainforests, grasslands, and cascading waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for jungle trekking. With a variety of trekking options available, there’s something for everyone, from easy walks in nature to more challenging treks that lead to scenic viewpoints. Continued … 

11 Indian restaurants to try in Bangkok

Compared to many cities in the world, Bangkok’s Indian food scene tilts toward the higher end – and a little pricey, even those places at the budget end of the spectrum.

But that also means an abundance of excellent cuisine to choose from, with a range of fine-dining options spanning the subcontinent from terrific Punjabi treats to delectable southern dosas.

Here are some of our favorites to choose from. Continued …

Drones Fly Deep Inside Russia; Putin Orders Border Tightened

Drones that the Kremlin said were launched by Ukraine flew deep inside Russian territory, including one that got within 100 kilometers (60 miles) of Moscow, signaling breaches in Russian defenses as President Vladimir Putin ordered stepped-up protection at the border. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai March flight schedule

 

 

90-day online reporting

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Friday’s News-Feb 24

2 Comments

  • Adverse weather expected through Feb 28/
  • Academics ask Westerners to donate rare blood/
  • Bangkok professor says air pollution cost Thailand 4.6 trillion baht in 2019/
  • Thai food and kidney disease – an unholy alliance/
  • Aging with grace: New health and social care model for older people in Thailand/
  • Chinese agencies devouring Chiang Mai property market/
  • Foreigners invest 5 billion baht in Thailand in January/
  • Investors target high-end Pattaya hotels/
  • Thailand’s EV exports double in 2022/
  • Forest encroachment at Thap Lan puts tigers at risk/
  • CP Foods installing solar panels at 180 facilities in renewable energy push/
  • Want a sex toy? Try Thai rubber/
  • Bhumjaithai party to champion cannabis bill next term/
  • Tourism: The growing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine among western tourists/Pattaya Resurrects, Tourist Spending Increases to ฿100 Million Per Night/
  • Thailand Experience: Traditional Songkran promoted in Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai/
  • International: UN marks one year of Ukraine war with ‘historic’ vote/One year of the Russia-Ukraine war – a loss for all/Ransomware 3.0 strikes on the rise/Global wildlife contaminated by ‘forever chemicals’/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Adverse weather expected through Feb 28

Adverse weather conditions are forecast across much of Thailand through at least Feb. 28. The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for a combination of factors affecting different parts of the country Feb. 25-28.

The northeast monsoon prevailing over the Gulf of Thailand is likely to bring waves of 2-3 meters (6.5-10 feet) in the upper Gulf of Thailand from Surat Thani Province northward and waves of 2-4 meters (6.5-13 feet) in the lower Gulf of Thailand from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province southward, as well as waves of 1-2 meters (3-6.5 feet) in the Andaman Sea. Authorities have requested that all vessels navigate with caution and avoid thunderstorms. Small boats are advised to refrain from leaving the shore. Continued …

Academics ask Westerners to donate rare blood

Rh-Negative blood reserves in Thailand are extremely low, academics told a panel discussion on Wednesday evening, during which they encouraged the international community in Thailand to donate blood. Continued … 

Bangkok professor says air pollution cost Thailand 4.6 trillion baht in 2019

A Bangkok professor has come forward with some troubling facts about the financial cost of Thailand’s air pollution in 2019.

The Kasetsart University professor, Wissanu Attawanich, said that air pollution from PM2.5 particles caused a staggering 2.173 trillion baht economic damage to Thai households that year. Wissanu said that when counting the damage from all pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, CO, NOx, NO2), the total was 4.616 trillion baht.

Wissanu’s research paper, disseminated by the Puey Ungphakorn Institute for Economic Research (PIER), revealed five provinces with the highest cost of damage to households. The top five provinces were Bangkok, Chon Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai, and Khon Kaen. Bangkok had the largest cost of 436.330 billion baht per year for PM2.5, and 927.362 billion baht per year when all air pollutants are considered. Continued … 

Thai food and kidney disease – an unholy alliance

About 17.6% of the Thai population, or eight million people, are suffering from chronic kidney disease, of which 200,000 are in the final stages. These figures are increasing by an average of 7,800 a year, according to Professor Dr. Atiporn Ingsathit, deputy director of Ramathibodi Hospital, quoting a 2020 report by the Ministry of Public Health.

According to the U.S. Renal Data System, Thailand ranks fifth in the world for kidney disease.

One of the causes of the high incidence of the disease is excessive consumption of sodium, averaging 3,635 milligrams per day, or about two teaspoons full, which is twice the amount recommended. Sodium is present in seasonings, such as soy sauce, fish sauce, shrimp paste, soup and seasoning powder. Continued …

Aging with grace: New health and social care model for older people in Thailand

In several poorer countries, aging populations and a lack of universal access to long-term care place the burden of care for older adults on their family. To mitigate this, researchers have successfully implemented a community-integrated intermediary care model in Thailand.

This care service has proven effective in reducing caregiver burden and improving the functional ability and independence of seniors. The multi-pronged model includes care prevention activities, capacity-building for family caregivers, and community respite services.

Rapidly aging populations are a problem that many low- and middle-income countries are currently facing. However, for several of these countries, inclusive health and social care is not a reality. Since older adults require constant attention and monitoring due to age-related morbidities and disabilities, the onus of caring for them usually falls on their families. Continued …

Chinese agencies devouring Chiang Mai property market

Property agents warn that an increasing number of Chinese nationals are buying houses in Chiang Mai via Chinese agencies opened using Thai nominees.

The Real Estate Trade Assn. of Chiang Mai Northern said on Thursday that around 1,000 houses worth over 3 million baht in Chiang Mai are now owned by Chinese nationals, with total value of at least 5 billion baht.

“Chinese have been buying real estate in Chiang Mai for more than a decade,” said association President Non Hirunchetskul. Continued … 

Foreigners invest 5 billion baht in Thailand in January

In the first month of 2023, foreign investment in Thailand amounted to 5.129 billion baht, the biggest investors being the Japanese, investing 3.588 billion baht.

Foreign investment is expected to reach 100 billion baht by the end of the year.

Today, Deputy Minister of Commerce Sinit Lertkrai revealed 52 cases of foreign investment in January under the Foreign Business Act (1999). Continued … 

Investors target high-end Pattaya hotels

Hotel investors are focused on buying upscale establishments because of high demand from independent guests, instead of hotels targeting mass tour groups, which have unfavorable locations and produce low returns, say Pattaya operators.

Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Chon Buri Tourism Council, said 4- and 5-star properties, or those located near beaches and city centers, are more attractive investments because their customers tend to have high spending power.

“Investors learned from Covid-19 that location is an important factor,” said Thanet. Continued …

 

Thailand’s EV exports double in 2022

Exports of electric vehicles (EV) in 2022 rose to 9,515 units, double the number sold in the previous year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries’ Automotive Industry Club.

Total EV production last year reached 92,746 units, increasing 37.9% year-on-year, the club reported on Thursday.

Of these, 84,685 units were hybrid electric vehicles, a 44.9% year-on-year increase in production, while 8,061 units were plug-in hybrid EV, whose production dropped 21.2%. Continued … 

Forest encroachment at Thap Lan puts tigers at risk

Forest encroachment at Thap Lan National Park in Prachin Buri – the heartland of Thailand’s tiger population – has become so severe that Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa is considering the possibility of new borders being drawn up.

“I’m confident the government won’t be disadvantaged by using forest borderlines to solve this problem inside the park. We would accept any borderline that ends the encroachment problem.”

Throughout Thailand, tigers have been driven to extinction. Until recently, there was only one known viable population of tigers in the country, along its western border with Myanmar. Then, in 2017, a population of at least 18 cats was found in Thap Lan National Park. Khao Yai National Park next door lost its tigers due to poaching. Continued … 

CP Foods installing solar panels at 180 facilities in renewable energy push

Agro-industrial and food conglomerate Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Co. (CP Foods) announced it plans to increase its usage of green energy via the installation of solar panels at 180 animal farms, feed mills, and processing plants across Thailand.

The total energy capacity of the company’s Thailand-based operations will be 65 MW by 2023 the Bangkok-based company stated in a press release. It added that it aims to reach 100 MW of solar energy across its supply chain by 2025.

“CP Foods works to promote the use of solar energy throughout the value chain to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enable cost optimization. The company had earlier this year announced that it had successfully phased out coal use across all of Thailand’s operations in accordance with coal-free 2022 campaign. The business substitutes biomass energy for coal,” CP Foods Executive Vice President Peerapong Krinchai said. Continued …

Want a sex toy? Try Thai rubber

In an effort to boost the price of natural rubber, Agriculture Minister Chalermchai Sri-on said this commodity should be channeled to the production of sex toys and dolls, which would draw additional income for the country.

Chalermchai, who is also the secretary-general of the Democrat Party, said, “Made in Thailand sex toys and dolls produced from the best natural rubber will raise the value of this commodity, with these sex products not just being about pornography but “a matter of sexual health.”

In 2021, the global sex toy market was worth 1.3 trillion baht, having grown 300% since 2016, he said, also estimating that it will increase to 2 trillion baht by 2030. Continued …

Bhumjaithai party to champion cannabis bill next term

The Bhumjaithai party yesterday pledged to push for the passage of a bill on cannabis and hemp after the next election as the controversial draft law appears unlikely to clear the House of Representatives before the end of its current term.

Supachai Jaisamut, chairman of the House committee vetting the draft law and a Bhumjaithai list-MP, seemed resigned to the fate of the bill sponsored by his party.

On Wednesday, the House continued its second reading of the draft law, and it took almost three hours to try and meet a quorum and vote on Section 15/3. Continued … 

The growing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine among western tourists

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has become increasingly popular among western tourists visiting Thailand and other Asian countries where TCM is widely practiced and easily accessible.

Western tourists are often attracted to TCM for various reasons, including its perceived effectiveness, natural remedies, and holistic approach to health and wellness.

At Chinglian TCM Clinic, which is located next to Ratchathewi BTS station, we are seeing a particular increase in younger westerners seeking out alternative treatments for a wide range of ailments. Continued …

Pattaya Resurrects, Tourist Spending Increases to ฿100 Million Per Night

The tourism industry in Pattaya, both day and night, including Walking Street and entertainment venues, is experiencing an increase in spending by tourists from Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Vietnam.

The level reaches 100 million baht per night, the figure trumping the record set pre-COVID-19. Business owners in the area are calling on the government to make it a free zone for entertainment until 4 am, like Phuket.

Tourism Authority of Thailand Pattaya Director Anoma Wongyai said Pattaya is in high season right now and many Russian tourists, along with travelers from India, Indonesia and China, want to visit the city, starting with private and family groups. Continued …

Traditional Songkran promoted in Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai

Following the inclusion of the Songkran Festival to a tentative list for recognition as an intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Thai authorities plan to promote the festival in a more traditional way in key tourist provinces this April.

Kowit Pakamart, director-general of the Department of Cultural Promotion, said his department is collaborating with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to promote traditional Songkran to showcase Thai culture for this year. Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt reaffirmed the collaboration, adding that the city’s cultural council will host events throughout the year to promote the nation’s intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in the capital. It will also promote information on ICHs, including cultural displays in Bangkok’s 50 districts. Continued …

UN marks one year of Ukraine war with ‘historic’ vote

The United Nations overwhelmingly isolated Russia on Thursday, marking one year since Moscow invaded Ukraine by calling for a “comprehensive, just and lasting peace” and again demanding Moscow withdraw its troops and stop fighting. Continued …

One year of the Russia-Ukraine war – a loss for all

One year into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the West is convinced that, with more powerful arms support to Ukraine, the country will win the war. After all, the U.S. and NATO can still take comfort in the fact that it was Russia’s blatant contravention of the UN Charter, by violating the territorial sovereignty of an independent state, that caused the conflict. Continued … 

Ransomware 3.0 strikes on the rise

Thailand recorded the second-highest number of targeted ransomware attacks in Southeast Asia and hackers are expected to increase their extortion and inflict greater damage on financial and reputational victims with Ransomware 3.0, says Russia-based cybersecurity firm Kaspersky. Continued …

Global wildlife contaminated by ‘forever chemicals’

From pandas to sea lions to tigers, hundreds of wildlife species across the globe are contaminated by potentially harmful “forever chemicals”, according to a review of hundreds of peer-reviewed studies. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Feb 20

2 Comments

  • And yet another sponsor renews support for Expat News – S.Ken’s Bistro/
  • New Miss Thailand PKK crowned/
  • Cha Am pet health center reopens/
  • Hua Hin Surf Festival to be held this weekend/
  • Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival this week/
  • Cha Am Crab Festival set March 11-18/
  • Insurance firm rates Thailand drivers ‘the worst’/
  • Head injury reported in Wild Boar youth’s death/
  • Hero’s welcome for Thai rescue team returning from quake-hit Turkey/
  • Chiang Mai’s red ‘Songthaew’ transformation, a new generation of drivers/
  • Thailand Sets 2027 Target for 100% Reuse of Plastic/
  • Two Men Dead In A Game Of Russian Roulette/
  • Mystery woman found floating dead off Koh Tao/
  • Anutin dashes hopes for e-cigarette legalization/
  • Thailand essential to GWM’s ambitious electric vehicle plans/
  • Tourism: Chinese not happy with new Thailand tourist fee/Russian mafia-style ‘gangs’ causing concerns for Phuket businesses/Thai Health minister says no to 4am pub closing, except in tourist areas/Rejection of passengers tops list of complaints about Bangkok’s cabbies/Koh Samui Gears Up For Wellness Tourism With New Hospital/China-Laos high-speed train brings tourists to Thailand/Marine Department reassures public that ‘river taxi’ travel is safe/
  • Thailand Experience: V Villas Hua Hin Among Top 10 Most Expensive Luxury Hotels In Thailand/Aleenta Hua Hin Among 9 Incredible Beachfront Resorts In Thailand/7 exotic Thai fruits that are high in nutrients and antioxidants/
  • Covid: ‘Game over, Covid’: 10 things we learned about the virus in past 3 years/
  • International: Taliban bars Afghan girls from school. Inside their secret classes with a teacher in the US/The coming storm/Economic problems due to Ukraine war to continue/US says China mulls arming Russia in Ukraine war/New Study Shows Veganism сauses More Harm To The Environment Than Limited Meat Consumption/Facebook-owner Meta to roll out paid subscription/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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And yet another sponsor renews support for Expat News

S.Ken’s Bistro – a Khao Tao experience

Locally owned by Chef Ken himself, who has worldwide experience as chef of five-star hotels, this lake view restaurant is dedicated to giving the guests an enjoyable dining experience. S.Ken’s Bistro strives for the perfectly prepared and expertly served food with an uncompromising commitment to quality and value. The bistro features European and Thai dishes. Reservation recommended during high season. Here are a few reviews of this popular Khao Tao eatery.

“Smashing little eatery. Best items on the menu for me are the Burger, the Beef and Rocket salad and the Bacon Sandwhich is one of, if not the best I’ve had in Thailand. If there’s a breeze, sitting outside is pleasant but on a warm night inside is cool and comfortable and the staff and Chef make you feel right at home.”

“The breaded, pan-fried fish was excellent; perfectly cooked, light, flakey and served with excellent house-made tartar sauce. Clean, fresh ambiance, nicely located across from Wat Khao Tao. We will return! Oh, I forgot to mention… even the vegetables, the peas and corn, were so good that I had to eat every last one of them!”

“Friendly staff, service with smile. Nice view of lake of Khao Tao (King’s Bhumibol first Irrigation system Royal Project), tasteful of food from Chef (His name is Ken if I am not wrong!) I and my friend love his food a lot, will visit again for sure!!!”

“Nice clean restaurant ..friendly staff…great food…just a great place for afternoon tea…or lunch…or dinner…don’t take my word for it…go see for yourself…you won’t be disappointed.”

“Food is amazing! Very nice restaurant! I would recommend this place to anyone.”

“Delicious food, great service! The burger was succulent and tasty. Apple crumble was super delicious!”

“Such a great little place to sit and watch to world go by, and then you have to staff all so helpful and so very kind, the just when you think things couldn’t get better…the food blows you away…so delicious…definitely have the dessert too, it’s so worth it!”

S.Ken’s Bistro strives for the perfectly prepared and expertly served food, with an uncompromising commitment to quality and value. The bistro features European and Thai dishes. Open daily for lunch and dinner with a casual style. Reservation recommended during high season.

Hours: Wednesday – Monday 11AM – 9 PM; Breakfast Available on weekend 8 AM – 2 PM. Located at 13/24 Kao Tao Hua Hin; tel: 092 464 6939; Facebook/; Email s.kensbnb@gmail.com

New Miss Thailand PKK crowned

Nong Khanom was crowned as “Miss Thailand Prachuap Khiri Khan 2023” at Hua Hin’s Market Village Sunday. Twenty-five-year-old “Nong Khanom”, or Pachara Kritsanaserani, holds a bachelor’s degree in airline business from the School of Tourism and Service, Suan Dusit University, Hua Hin campus. She will now go on to represent Prachuap Khiri Khan province at the Miss Thailand beauty pageant later this year. (HHT)

Cha Am pet health center reopens

The People and Animals Thailand (PAT) Cha-Am clinic has reopened and able to renew efforts to manage and reduce the suffering of street animals to become a happier and healthier population.

The PAT clinic helped more than 6,000 dogs and cats when it first opened in 2019, before it was forced to close due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The clinic is located on Phetchakasim Road between Hua Hin and Cha Am, and uses modern surgical techniques to desex and vaccinate around 200-300 street animals per month.

Appointments are required. Location;  phone: 099-9292530; email PAT@wfft.org

Hua Hin Surf Festival to be held this weekend

The Hua Hin Surf Festival is set to take place on Feb. 25-26 at Khao Takiab beach.

This event will bring together surfers and beach enthusiasts to celebrate the surf culture, fun and entertainment over a weekend filled with competitions, food, live music and activities.

The event is being organized by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Khiri Khan office and Pineapple Surf Club. Continued …

Insurance firm rates Thailand drivers ‘the worst’

Head injury reported in Wild Boar youth’s death

The tragic death last weekend of Duangphet Phromthep, one of 12 members of the Wild Boar soccer team at a prestigious British football academy, has left Thailand, his friends and family stunned, bringing an abrupt end to what appeared like a fairytale story for the soccer-loving teenager.

The exact circumstances of his death have yet to be explained but it is understood to have been a tragic accident resulting in a head injury, which will be adjudicated on by a UK coroners court.

Leicestershire Police in a statement on the death of 17-year-old Wild Boar soccer team captain Duangphet ‘Dom’ Phromthep has confirmed that his death last week at an exclusive boarding school in the town of Market Harborough was not suspicious and that a file on it is being prepared for the coroner. Continued … 

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach !
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Get a beach-bed at our Anantasila beach – 500 Baht per person

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Hero’s welcome for Thai rescue team returning from quake-hit Turkey

The Thai search and rescue team that joined the global effort to retrieve earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria returned to a hero’s welcome on Saturday, with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha presenting each member – including the sniffer dogs – with a medal.

The Urban Search and Rescue Team arrived at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport at about 10am on a Turkish Airline flight from Istanbul.

Applause and appreciation was given to its 42 people and two sniffer dogs: Sierra and Sahara. The Golden Retrievers are certified rescue dogs by the International Rescue Dog Organization. Continued …

Chiang Mai’s red ‘Songthaew’ transformation, a new generation of drivers

The red Songthaew minibuses in Chiang Mai have been an iconic form of transport for several decades, for both tourists and locals alike who do not have cars or motorcycles.

The buses, which are, in fact, pickup trucks fitted with two rows of seating facing each other, normally operate on fixed routes. Of late, however, some of them have undergone a transformation, to meet the changing environment and tastes of tourists, thanks to the creative thinking of a new generation of drivers, among them Phuthavat Singkha, a 29-year-old graduate.

Phuthavat said that he has worked as a songthaew driver for the six years since he graduated, thanks to inheriting the vehicle from his father. Continued …

Thailand Sets 2027 Target for 100% Reuse of Plastic

The government has emphasized the importance of managing plastic waste, which has had increasingly negative effects on the environment. It is now urging all sides to work toward reducing the use of plastic and eventually meeting the goal of reusing 100% of plastic waste by 2027.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa has implemented policy and continuous assessments to address the issue of plastic waste management, as well as develop long-term solutions for the country. The national aim is to achieve 100% efficiency in plastic recycling by 2027, as outlined in the road map for plastic waste management from 2018-2030.

The private sector in Thailand has been participating in plastic waste management by utilizing upcycling technology to raise the value of plastic waste and transform it into high-value products, such as fabric fibers. In addition, the public has been encouraged to separate waste at the source, and there have been efforts to increase awareness of food safety due to the negative impacts of microplastics. Continued …

Two Men Dead In A Game Of Russian Roulette

Two of six young men drinking in Ayutthaya early Saturday morning died in a game of Russian roulette, with the same bullet passing from the head of the person who fired the shot to his friend sitting next to him.

At 3.30 a.m., Police Lt. Col. Narathip Suthon, an inspector at Bang Pa-In police station, was alerted of two persons being shot dead at a footpath in front of a shop on Rojana road inbound to the city and rushed there with a team of policemen and rescuers.

At the scene, they found the two men shot in the head, with one of them resting on a table and the other fallen on the footpath. Continued …

Mystery woman found floating dead off Koh Tao

A female body was found floating in the sea 12 nautical miles northwest off the southern Thai island of Koh Tao.

The body was floating among approximately 20 200-liter plastic oil drums and was taken to the temple of Wat Koh Charoen Santitham on Koh Tao. Police there were informed.

There was no ID on the body. It was a woman aged 25-30, quite plump, 160 cms tall, wearing a black and red long sleeve top, brown shorts and black underwear. Continued …

Anutin dashes hopes for e-cigarette legalization

Thai Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dashed hopes of e-cigarette legalization. Vaping is illegal in Thailand and that is the way things are going to stay.

Anutin said that he had ordered the Department of Disease Control to work with the police and customs to ensure that vaping devices and vaping fluid is not imported into Thailand.

He said he is determined to work with schools and educational organizations to make sure that e-cigarettes are not available among young people, leading to more taking up regular smoking. Continued …

Thailand essential to GWM’s ambitious electric vehicle plans

Chinese sport utility vehicle manufacturer Great Wall Motor (GWM) is determined to expand its electric vehicle (EV) business in ASEAN, with Thailand and Indonesia selected as its top destinations.

The company views Thailand, which is promoting EV production and consumption, as its major EV market, while Indonesia, which is rich in nickel, is suitable as a base for battery manufacturing, said Parker Shi, vice president of GWM.

Nickel is a key raw material for the production of EV batteries. Continued …

Chinese not happy with new Thailand tourist fee

Once praised by Chinese travelers, Thailand is bursting its own bubble. On Feb. 14, the Thai cabinet approved the collection of an entry free on foreign visitors, effective starting on June 1. Those coming by air will need to pay 300 baht ($8) for each trip and those entering by land or sea ports must pay 150 baht each.

These fees will be used in part to develop local attractions, as well as provide tourists with insurance coverage during their stay.

The news has been met with dismay in China. On Weibo, the hashtag “Thailand will impose entry fees on foreign tourists” has garnered 130 million views, with many posts complaining about the additional travel costs. As one user @若依诗 wrote, “(Thailand) earned a lot of money and now has started to act rude! I have been to Thailand twice and I have a good impression of it, but this makes me dismiss the idea of going again.” Continued … 

Russian mafia-style ‘gangs’ causing concerns for Phuket businesses

The hospitality industry in Phuket is facing a problem with foreign mafia-style gangs becoming increasingly involved in business on the resort island. Industry executives are concerned that foreigners are exploiting laws to run their own businesses, while also taking up jobs only legal for local people.

Kata Group Resorts founder Pramookpisitt Achariyachai spoke during a recent meeting about tourism issues in the three Andaman provinces of Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga, stating that some foreigners were breaching rules on jobs reserved for Thais.

Businesses currently run by groups of foreigners include taxi services and accommodation, with some foreigners renting villas and condo units abandoned during the Covid-19 pandemic, and then re-renting them out again to their countrymen – and often at highly inflated prices. Pramookpisitt claimed that they were “mostly Russians”. Continued …

Thai Health minister says no to 4am pub closing, except in tourist areas

The Ministry of Public Health is against a proposal to allow pubs to stay open until 4am (instead of 2am) as a matter of principle for public welfare and safety, Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told a meeting of the board of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) on Sunday.

He also said, however, that the ministry may agree to allow pubs in certain major tourist destinations to operate up to 4am on case-by-case basis, adding that the ministry will try to maintain a balance between social and economic aspects, so no harm is caused.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports wants pubs in tourist destinations, such as Phuket and Pattaya, to stay open until 4am to attract tourists. Continued … 

Rejection of passengers tops list of complaints about Bangkok’s cabbies

The Land Transport Department has received more than 2,000 passenger complaints against taxi drivers in Bangkok, with most of them concerning cabbies’ rejection of passengers, since the new taxi fares came into effect on Jan. 16.

Of the 2,120 complaints, 720 concerned cabbies’ rejection of passengers, 455 concerned impolite behavior toward passengers, 358 were for reckless driving, 237 for not using meters and 221 cases of malfunctioning meters.

The department has already responded to 1,650 complaints and has taken legal action in 479 cases. – Thai PBS

Koh Samui Gears Up For Wellness Tourism With New Hospital

With the opening of a new hospital on Koh Samui over the weekend, Surat Thani authorities announced that it is now ready launch Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan as a wellness destination.

Provincial Gov. Wichawut Jinto joined Dr. Somchai Chansawang, CEO of Wattanapat Hospital Trang Plc, and other senior officials in opening this 53-bed hospital on Koh Samui.

With the new addition, Koh Samui now has five hospitals and altogether 380 beds. Wattanapat Hospital has a team of specialists in various fields, modern medical equipment and a referral system to more advanced hospitals. Continued … 

China-Laos high-speed train brings tourists to Thailand

The number of Chinese tourists visiting Vientiane in Laos, Nong Khai, and Udon Thani in Thailand has increased.

Suganda Punsue, chairman of the Nong Khai Travel Trade Promotion Assn., and executives from the Nong Khai-based travel company Kantana Tour explained that the Lao kip is currently devalued, trading at 1 baht for 500 kip. Previously, it was 1 baht for 250 kip, boosting the travel industry.

Tourists have to exchange into local currency to pay for accommodation and food while traveling in Vientiane or Luang Prabang. Tour operators usually advise tourists to swap travel expenses for local currency at the checkpoint in Laos. They can exchange the money back into Thai baht at a slightly higher rate. Continued … 

Marine Department reassures public that ‘river taxi’ travel is safe

The Marine Department is enforcing safety measures for boat passengers on waterways across the country, its acting director-general Sorapong Paithoonpong assured the public on Saturday.

The department’s officials in Bangkok and its regional offices have been instructed to check the readiness of passenger boats, crew, and safety gear – including life jackets – as well as piers, to ensure maximum safety, Sorapong said.

Boat pilots have been advised to closely follow weather forecasts, he said. Continued … 

V Villas Hua Hin

V Villas Hua Hin Among Top 10 Most Expensive Luxury Hotels In Thailand

Where should we even begin? Thailand is an absolute marvel, and it’s full of incredible adventures for travelers to experience. Foodies will love trying out authentic Thai dishes when they visit.

Adrenaline junkies will be thrilled to try some of the most exciting extreme sports in Thailand. History buffs will enjoy exploring the ancient temples with a complex, rich history. Even couples will find the most romantic resorts to spend their honeymoons or “baecations.”

Thailand is full of hidden gems that travelers should put on their bucket lists. This article showcases some of the most amazing, luxurious, and expensive hotels to elevate your trip to Thailand. Continued … 

Aleenta Hua Hin

Aleenta Hua Hin Among 9 Incredible Beachfront Resorts In Thailand

A visit to Thailand might include hiking lush mountains, touring ornate temples, and sampling savory street food. But I say a stay in this Southeast Asian country isn’t complete without a stint on its stellar beaches, where accommodations on the turquoise Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea range from boutique lodging to private villas to large resorts.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of Thailand’s best beach resorts. Rather, you might consider the highly rated options below to learn more about the variety of oceanfront properties as you plan a trip to the friendly country known as the “Land of Smiles.”

Here, in no particular order, are some incredible beachfront resorts to experience in Thailand. Continued …

Mangosteen

7 exotic Thai fruits that are high in nutrients and antioxidants

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” is a mantra we all remember by heart. Fruits have always played a key role in a healthy diet, and it is always advisable to include at least one fruit in your daily routine. Luckily, in Yhailand, we are spoiled for choices.

Not only do these fresh fruits taste good, but they are also very high in different nutrients. Many exotic fruits in Thailand are rich in vitamins, antioxidants and other such nutrients that aid good health. And its consumption is also a delicious affair.

You can include fruits in your daily diet in the form of fruit bowls, and smoothies or have it raw. You can also make oats or smoothie bowls. Here’s a list of yummy exotic fruits that are packed with goodness. Continued … 

‘Game over, Covid’: 10 things we learned about the virus in past 3 years

One of Thailand’s top virologists today listed 10 things we have learned from the new coronavirus as the world shifts out of pandemic mode.

This year will be “game over” for Covid-19, said Dr. Yong Poovorawan, head of the Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University. However, he added the pandemic had changed the world in several aspects.

“We have lived with Covid-19 for more than three years. This is what we have learned so far and the estimation of what will happen next,” said Yong. Continued …

Taliban bars Afghan girls from school. Inside their secret classes with a teacher in the US

Still heavy and scratchy from sleep, the “good mornings” come in hushed but eager voices. It’s 7 a.m. in Afghanistan, but it’s not too early for the Afghan teen girls and women who meet secretly each week for a virtual English class that is based in New Jersey. Continued …

The coming storm

Climate change is an invisible killer. A family that lived in a hill station in India, an area known for its colder climate, took their sick child to the hospital. Nobody thought of dengue until a diagnosis confirmed it. Warmer temperatures in India and elsewhere make conditions more favorable for mosquitoes. Continued …

Economic problems due to Ukraine war to continue

The world’s economy and businesses have suffered from the Russia-Ukraine war over the past year, hamstrung by high energy prices, inflationary pressure and logistics disruptions. Continued … 

US says China mulls arming Russia in Ukraine war

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Sunday that China was considering providing weapons to Russia in its war against Ukraine, warning Beijing that any supplies would “cause a serious problem.” Continued …

New Study Shows Veganism сauses More Harm To The Environment Than Limited Meat Consumption

A new study has revealed that veganism can cause more harm to the environment than “limited meat consumption”. Citing a survey published by the Social Source Journal, scientists from the University of Georgia have found that several soybean products that are quite common in the vegan diet, are imported from places where their production can add to widespread deforestation and habitat loss. The studies also revealed that the transportation of these products can also cause a severe environmental impact. Continued …

Facebook-owner Meta to roll out paid subscription

Facebook and Instagram owner Meta will launch a paid subscription service starting at $1.99 a month, allowing users to verify their accounts, CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced Sunday, following a similar move by Elon Musk at Twitter. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

 

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bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-Feb 17

  • And yet another happy customer renews sponsorship of Expat News – IC Curtains/
  • Hua Hin Old days Festival at Bluport March 3-5/
  • Crab festival set in Cha Am March 11-18/
  • German expat, daughter have lucky escape after fire destroys home in Cha Am/
  • Try these different varieties of pad krapow in Hua Hin/
  • Wild Boar football team pays tribute to captain ‘Dom’/
  • School head shocked by Wild Boars footballer’s death/
  • Property market outlook for this year improves/
  • Three-Month Burn Ban Put in Place to Curb Haze, Wildfire/
  • Over 500 fires in northern Thailand spark alarm/
  • Eight national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to be closed due to forest fires/
  • Consumer products likely to cost more despite cut in diesel price/
  • Online advance booking of train tickets now requires credit or debit card/
  • Thailand’s roads claim the lives of 75 foreigners so far this year/
  • BMA, US Embassy, Tesla promote electric vehicles in Bangkok/
  • BGRIM, Innopower team up for clean energy projects/
  • Foreign Motorbike Racers in Phuket Draw Police Attention/
  • Police arrest gang selling Thai monkeys abroad for medical research/
  • Winds destroy durian crops worth 5 million baht in east/
  • Thai ecologist sounds alarm on declining shark numbers/
  • Best Thai cannabis strains for sleep and insomnia relief/
  • Tourism: Calls for scrutiny of new tourism fee fund/Entry fees to include insurance/
  • Thailand Experience: First ‘cultural map’ of the country now online/There’s Never Been a More Exciting Time to Eat Thai in Bangkok/
  • Covid: Covid infection gives similar immunity to vaccination/
  • International: 10 deadliest quakes of the past 100 years/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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And yet another happy customer renews sponsorship of Expat News

IC Curtains

Established for 15 years in Phuket and now in Hua Hin, IC Curtains and its sister companies Just Sofas and Lucky Awnings provide many complementary and interrelated products in a “one-stop shop” experience, simplifying and minimising the time and stress involved with multiple suppliers.

As a family-run business, you can be assured that our customers always come first, and we pride ourselves in giving friendly, honest service with no high-pressure selling.

We absolutely guarantee our work, and offer a free 12-month after-sales service on our workmanship and products for normal wear and tear.

We stock only the very best quality products, such as VC FABRICS, PASAYA Fabrics, ACACIA Fabrics, SUNBRELLA Umbrellas, NITAS Textiles, and SOMFY Motorised Solutions, as we can depend on both the products and their guarantees to us.

The company founder and owner “Lucky” is from Australia and has over 45 years curtain and fabrics industry experience, and over 60 years in service and retail industries, and so he really understands the level of customer service needed to keep clients happy.

Customer satisfaction is where IC Curtains really shines.

We focus on taking the time to understand your own personal style and vision, and offer advice on how to bring together the aesthetics, purpose, budget and functionality of your environment. Our goal is to help you to create the mood, tone and ambiance that you envision for your space, with the best quality products within your budget.

We simplify the process by enabling design, color and style choices for both indoor and outdoor soft furnishings and products in one place.

Our Showroom is conveniently located on Soi 112, directly opposite the well-known Maha Samutr Country Club. We are open Monday to Saturday, 8:30am to 530:pm.

We have a good range of products on display, and a full set of sample books for every product available from our suppliers.

Our loyal team has been with us for many years and includes specialists in measure and quote, cutting, sewing, fitting and support, are well trained and will leave your property as clean as when they arrived.

Call Lucky direct on 093-6294400 to make an appointment to drop-in and tell us about your unique requirements.

70/171 Soi 112 Huana Tuptai Road, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, 77110 Thailand; email: scholtesjochen3@gmail.com; tel: 093-6294400; Web; Facebook.

Crab festival set in Cha Am March 11-18

Cha Am municipality has announced its crab festival – “Gin Pu Chak@Cha-am festival” will take place March 11-18 at Cha-am viewpoint. Expect lots of fresh seafood and local cuisine, live music, entertainment, shopping and much more.

German expat, daughter have lucky escape after fire destroys home in Cha Am

A German man and his young daughter had a lucky escape after fire quickly spread through their home in Cha Am this morning.

Officials said a cigarette butt that wasn’t properly disposed of caused the fire at the three-story property located close to Phanthurat Forest Park in Khao Yai District.

The fire broke out in a bedroom on the second floor before spreading to an adjacent wardrobe and bathroom, officials said. Continued … 

Try these different varieties of pad krapow in Hua Hin

There are many dishes that are ubiquitous with Thai cuisine: som tam, pad Thai and green curry just to name a few.

But there is one dish that could perhaps be considered a part of daily life in Thailand, more so than any other.

And while dishes such as pad Thai may be more well-known internationally, it is pad krapow which is the true staple of Thai food. Continued … 

Wild Boar football team pays tribute to captain ‘Dom’

Duangpetch “Dom” Promthep, one of the 13 ‘Wild Boars” rescued from Tham Luang Cave in Chiang Rai province back in 2018, has died in England, said Supatpong Methigo, a monk who taught him in Chiang Rai on Wednesday.

“Note” Prachak Sutham, member of “13 Wild Boars” paid tribute to “Dom”, the captain of Wild Boars soccer team.

“R.I.P., My Dear Friend, We, 13 people, have been through a lot together, both suffering and happiness. We have risked life and death and gone through all the hardships together. You said to wait and see when you join the national team. I always believed that you could do it. Continued … 

School head shocked by Wild Boars footballer’s death

The director of a school in Chiang Mai has expressed surprise about the sudden death of young “Wild Boars” footballer Duangphet “Dom” Phromthep in England, saying the school was awaiting the autopsy results to learn the exact cause.

Duangphet was a Mathayom Suksa 5 (Grade 11) student at Vachiralai School in Saraphi district when he received a scholarship from the Zico Foundation to a football academy in in England, said Khanong Tonlek, the school director.

The boy continued to take online courses and exams at Vachiralai School to qualify to enter Mathayom Suksa 6 in the next academic year. Continued … 

Property market outlook for this year improves

The total residential property index projection for 2023 has been upgraded, as reduced transfer and mortgage fees continue to offer benefits to buyers of mid-scale properties.

Vichai Viratkapan, acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said the total residential property index last year rose 21% to 91.7, from 75.7 in 2021. The 2022 figure is the highest since 2019.

“The key driver was the loan-to-value (LTV) limits that started in 2019 and eased in 2021, ending last year,” Vichai said. Continued … 

Three-Month Burn Ban Put in Place to Curb Haze, Wildfire

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha ordered the implementation of any possible measures to keep wildfire under control and seek cooperation from all concerned localities to observe no-burning rule from Feb. 1 to April 30.

Those who violate the rule will be penalized, said deputy secretary-general to the prime minister and acting government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri.

Concerned agencies are also urged to work proactively to create public awareness. If the situation is not better, plan adjustment will be necessary to beef up related measures. Continued … 

Over 500 fires in northern Thailand spark alarm

More than half of the 1,005 fires recorded in Thailand on Wednesday were in the North, causing dangerous levels of pollution, according to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency.

The three provinces with the highest number of fires were Chiang Mai (205), Tak (156), and Mae Hong Son (146).

Of the total number of fires in Thailand, 501 were in protected forests, 361 in reserved forests, 55 in areas under the Agricultural Land Reform Office, 45 on farms, 42 in local communities, and one along a highway, the agency said. Continued …

Eight national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to be closed due to forest fires

Thailand’s Center for Air Pollution Mitigation has asked the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to close eight national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in 17 northern provinces, in a bid to control the increasing number of forest fires.

Pollution Control Department Director-General Pinsak Suraswadi said that the closures will allow officials to work with greater flexibility and efficiency to control the hotspots, which are mostly being detected in forest reserves.

The closures affect Nam Pai, Om Koi and Pa Mae Tuen wildlife sanctuaries, and Pha Daeng, Tham Pha Thai, Ob Luang, Mae Ping and Si Nan national parks. Continued … 

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  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment

Get a beach-bed at our Anantasila beach – 500 Baht per person

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Consumer products likely to cost more despite cut in diesel price

The move by the Oil Fuel Fund Office to approve a reduction in the retail price of diesel by 50 satang per liter from Wednesday is unlikely to deter consumer goods makers from hiking prices.

President of the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn., Somchai Pornratanacharoen, said manufacturers were forced to hike product prices, as skyrocketing energy costs had affected their overall cost of production.

“The high energy prices last year pushed up the prices of items, such as noodles, soaps, and snacks,” he said. Continued …

Online advance booking of train tickets now requires credit or debit card

 

From yesterday, passengers who make online advance bookings for train tickets, through the D-Ticket website of the State Railway of Thailand or through its application, must pay for the tickets with their credit or debit cards.

Passengers can, however, still make advance bookings at all train stations with cash, if they do not have or do not want to use their cards.

The SRT explained that it decided to require passengers to pay for tickets when they book online because many do not show up to claim their tickets they booked within 30 days, resulting in other passengers losing the opportunity to travel. Continued … 

Thailand’s roads claim the lives of 75 foreigners so far this year

Thailand’s deadly roads have claimed the lives of 75 foreigners so far this year. A further 2,886 foreigners were injured, according to data from Thai RSC, an accident information center.

Foreigners getting into road accidents in Thailand regularly make headlines but much more go unrecorded by the media.

Data recorded from Jan. 1 – Feb. 15 reveals that 2,099 people in total died in road accidents in Thailand so far this year. Of those, 75 were foreigners. Statistics show that 106,133 were injured in road accidents so far this year, 2,886 of which were foreigners. Continued …

BMA, US Embassy, Tesla promote electric vehicles in Bangkok

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt on Thursday participated in an activity to promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs) at City Hall in Phra Nakhon district.

Co-hosted by Embassy of the United States in Bangkok and private partners, EV-promotion events were also organized simultaneously at four other locations: Continued …

BGRIM, Innopower team up for clean energy projects

B.Grimm Power (BGRIM), an energy developer with the largest capacity in the small power-producer segment, has forged a venture with energy innovation firm Innopower Co. to promote clean energy projects, including electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure development.

The two companies did not elaborate on the EV-related project, saying only they will work together to develop an “ecosystem” for battery EVs, part of efforts to help the government reduce carbon dioxide emissions and avoid the severe impact of climate change. Continued …

Foreign Motorbike Racers in Phuket Draw Police Attention

A group of foreign motorbike racers were reportedly warned of being a public nuisance before a fight with locals broke out on Bangla Road in Patong.

A viral video clip of people fighting on Bangla Road went viral in social media last Wednesday.

TPN media has decided not to air the clip due to material that may disturb sensitive viewers. Continued … 

Police arrest gang selling Thai monkeys abroad for medical research

Police have busted a gang that was catching and selling Thai monkeys abroad to be “lab rats” in medical research and for “energy” food.

Some were believed to be worth as much as 100,000 baht each.

The case happened in Nakhon Sawan at a tourist area called Khao Nor, where Nan, 55, sells monkey treats. Continued …

Winds destroy durian crops worth 5 million baht in east

Like them or hate them, there is huge money in growing what are often referred to as the King of Fruits – the famously smelly and, for some, delicious Durian.

But like all crops, they can be subject to the vagaries of the weather, and disaster struck yesterday for 6-7 orchards by a reservoir in Trat, eastern Thailand.

High winds caused nearly 10,000 of the fruit weighing 1.5 – 2.5 kilos and worth 500 baht each to fall. Continued … 

Thai ecologist sounds alarm on declining shark numbers

A Thai ecologist is sounding the alarm on the decline in the number of sharks in the country’s waters.

The marine ecologist, Assistant Professor Thon Thamrongnawasawat, the deputy dean of the Faculty of Fisheries at Kasetsart University, presented some worrying facts about the situation.

Thon said that around 75 of the 87 shark species in Thai waters are endangered. Endangered sharks include the whale shark, leopard shark, hammerhead and bull shark. Most of the shark species in the country’s territorial waters are listed as endangered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Continued … 

Best Thai cannabis strains for sleep and insomnia relief

Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and one of its most common applications is to help with sleep and insomnia. With the growing popularity of cannabis as a sleep aid, it can be challenging to know which strains are the best for promoting a restful night’s sleep.

In this article, we will explore some of the best cannabis strains for sleep and insomnia, with a focus on strains that have their origins in Thailand.

Thai Stick

Thai Stick is a classic cannabis strain in Thailand that is known for its sedative effects. It is a pure Sativa strain that has been cultivated for generations in Thailand. This strain is known for its sweet and spicy flavor, and it has a high THC content, making it an effective sleep aid. Thai Stick is also known for its ability to reduce anxiety, which can be helpful for people who struggle with anxiety-related sleep disorders. Continued … 

Calls for scrutiny of new tourism fee fund

Tourism operators are concerned about the transparency of the Tourism Promotion Fund, which is estimated to have a budget of more than 13 billion baht from the 300-baht tourism fee collected from international visitors.

The cabinet this week approved collection of the fee, expected to start in June.

The Tourism and Sports Ministry is projected to collect 3.9 billion baht this year and more than 10 billion from 40 million visitors estimated for next year. Continued … 

Entry fees to include insurance

Thailand will provide insurance for foreign tourists when tourism fees for international arrivals are imposed in June, deputy government spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul said on Thursday. Continued … 

First ‘cultural map’ of the country now online

The first online cultural map of Thailand is now available with more than 2,000 cultural sites across the country, ready to be upgraded for metaverse technologies.

The virtual map is part of a database developed by the Program Management Unit for Area-based Development (PMU-A) under the Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council.

The PMU-A said recently the database is a joint project of the university network for area-based development comprising 41 universities from 33 provinces. Continued … 

There’s Never Been a More Exciting Time to Eat Thai in Bangkok

For a long time, Thai fine dining in Bangkok was synonymous with lavish multicourse menus drawing on recipes from the royal court. Long regarded as the pinnacle of the country’s cuisine, these meals featured intricately carved vegetables and the choicest cuts of deboned fish and meat.

The meticulously balanced flavors were neither too spicy nor overly heavy on funky inflections such as pla ra (fermented fish paste). Restaurants specializing in oryal Thai cooking mostly catered to tourists; locals splurged on fine French or Japanese cuisine.

Around the mid-2010s, something changed. Inspired by the locavore movement sweeping through restaurants worldwide, a new crop of ambitious young Thais shifted focus to recipes and little-known ingredients from beyond the regal kitchens. Chef Napol Jantraget championed seasonal produce when he opened his casual fine diner 80/20 in 2015, and Chalee Kader highlighted northeastern Thai nose-to-tail cooking at 100 Mahaseth, which launched in Bangkok’s old town in 2017. They introduced Bangkok’s cash-flush diners to locally raised meat, tribal food-preservation techniques and herbs from the country’s rural corners that even most Thais had never heard of. Continued … 

Covid infection gives similar immunity to vaccination

The protection against Covid-19 from being previously infected lasts at least as long as that offered by vaccination, one of the largest studies conducted on the subject said today.

Ten months after getting Covid, people still had an 88% lower risk of reinfection, hospitalization and death, according to the study published in the Lancet journal.

That makes this natural immunity “at least as durable, if not more so” than two doses of Pfizer or Moderna’s vaccines, the study said. Continued …

10 deadliest quakes of the past 100 years

With the estimated death toll still mounting, the massive earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria on Feb. 6 is among the 10 deadliest of the past 100 years, with over 41,000 dead as of Friday. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

 

90-day online reporting