Category Archives: chiang mai

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

Tuesday’s News-April 4

  • New opening schedule for Tamarind Market in April/
  • Junior golf clinic planned at Royal Hua Hin course/
  • Cost of diesel to be cut this week amid falling global oil prices/
  • Fires in Nakhon Nayok under control, focus shifts to park in Chiang Mai/
  • Sri Lanna park to be made ‘disaster zone’/
  • Chiang Mai ranks as most polluted city in the world for 9 days running/
  • Restaurants, real estate drive 18% rise in business registrations/
  • Man Dies After Bomb Explodes in Krabi/
  • Suspects in Nonthaburi slaying of female student arrested in China/
  • 37 People Injured After Bus to Phuket Overturns in Chumphon/
  • Annual motor show bookings surge 35%/
  • Exports seen contracting 10% in first quarter/
  • Tourism: Songkran celebrations in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan/Pet-friendly Songkran trip ideas for the whole furry family/Thailand expects tourism revenue to hit 80% of pre-Covid level this year/Samui Negotiates More Direct Flights as Bookings for Songkran Soar/TAT keeping track of impact of Chinese tourists/Chiang Rai skywalk closed for repairs after glass panel shatters/
  • Thailand Experience: Students from UK high school embark on trip of a lifetime to Thailand/
  • International: Finland joins NATO as Russian war prompts shift/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

New opening schedule for Tamarind Market in April

Hua Hin’s Tamarind Market is extending its opening hours over two public holidays in April.

During the Chakri Day weekend, the market will open its doors from 5pm between April 6-9. Over the Songkran holidays, the market will be open from April 12-16.

The nearby Cicada market will be open April 13-16 during Songkran.

Junior golf clinic planned at Royal Hua Hin course

On Wednesday, April 26, a junior golf clinic will be held by some of the competing golf pros at the Royal Hua Hin Thailand Championship coming to the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course on April 25-27. The clinic will be held at the driving range commencing at 4pm.

The MENA (Middle East & North Africa) Tour is hosting the event. Over 70 golf professionals from across the globe have entered the event, with around 100 expected.

This free clinic is open to all aspiring junior golfers, but come before 4pm to register.

Cost of diesel to be cut this week amid falling global oil prices

The domestic diesel price is to be cut to 33 baht a liter this Friday, down from 33.5 baht a liter, as global oil prices keep falling, says the Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO).

It will be the fourth in a series of price reductions since early February when the retail price in Thailand stood at 34.94 baht a liter. Continued …

Fires in Nakhon Nayok under control, focus shifts to park in Chiang Mai

After five days of relentless efforts, Thailand’s Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DPDPM) announced Monday that firefighters have succeeded in getting forest fires in Nakhon Nayok province under control.

As a result of the success of the mission, the command center set up to deal with the fires on Khao Laem and several other mountains in Nakhon Nayok has been downgraded to just a local-level center, the task of which is to monitor the situation to ensure that the fires do not reignite. Continued …

Sri Lanna park to be made ‘disaster zone’

Authorities are preparing to declare Sri Lanna National Park a disaster zone due to the ongoing wildfires in the area.

After inspecting the fires yesterday, Chiang Mai Gov. Nirat Pongsitthaworn said the park will be declared a disaster zone due to the nature of the wildfire within the park’s boundaries. Continued …

Chiang Mai ranks as most polluted city in the world for 9 days running

Northern Thailand continues to battle a thick layer of smog, with Chiang Mai being ranked as the world’s most polluted city by PM2.5 rating for nine days in a row, according to the IQAir website.

The highest air quality index (AQI) value was found at the Health Hospital in Ban Khai Hospital in Mae Na Wang subdistrict, Mae Ai district, Chiang Mai province, measuring at a hazardous 411 μg/m3. Continued …

Restaurants, real estate drive 18% rise in business registrations

New business registrations in February this year rose 18.4% to 8,537 compared with the same period last year, though only 0.84% from January, government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said on Monday. He cited a rise in tourism and hotel business registrations as evidence that Thai tourism is rebounding strongly after Covid-19.

New registrations in February were led by construction, real estate, and restaurant businesses, according to data from the Department of Business Development. Continued …

Man Dies After Bomb Explodes in Krabi

A 33-year-old man died after a bomb exploded in Krabi. The Klong Thom Police were notified of the incident on Sunday at a house in South Klong Tom. The Krabi EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) and the Krabi Forensic Police were called to the scene.

The man was later identified as Kampanart Sapjaroen, 33, who had been pronounced dead at the scene. His body was surrounded by many unexploded bombs and the one that had set off. It took more than three hours for the EOD to recover all bombs from the area. Continued …

Suspects in Nonthaburi slaying of female student arrested in China

Three suspects in the gruesome murder of a Chinese student in Nonthaburi have been arrested in China, according to Deputy Police Chief Surachate Hakparn.

Surachate said Thai police coordinated with Chinese authorities to arrest the suspects after discovering that they flew to Chengdu on March 30. He added that Chinese police are interrogating the suspects, who had committed other crimes in their home country before. Continued …

37 People Injured After Bus to Phuket Overturns in Chumphon

Thirty-seven people sustained injuries after a passenger bus from Nong Khai heading to Phuket crashed in the Sawee district.

Emergency responders were notified of the accident on Sunday morning on Asia 41 Road in the Na Poe subdistrict. Continued …

Annual motor show bookings surge 35%

Car and motorcycle bookings at the 2023 Bangkok International Motor Show, which ended on Sunday, rose by more than 35% year-on-year to 45,983 units, thanks to an improving economy and electric vehicles (Evs).

The economic recovery and the government’s policy to promote EVs, which encourages EV manufacturers to introduce electric cars to prospective EV buyers were key factors, said Jaturon Komolmit, vice chairman of Grand Prix International, which organized the event. Continued …

Exports seen contracting 10% in first quarter

Thailand’s exports are likely to show a contraction of 10% in the first quarter of this year from a year earlier, bigger than a previous forecast drop of 8%, the country’s shippers’ council said on Tuesday.

The global economy was slowing and a recovery in China’s economy was not as fast as expected, Chaichan Chareonsuk, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council, told a news conference. Continued … 

Songkran celebrations in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan

Tourism officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan are gearing up for what is set to be a busy month in April.

With the big holiday break approaching, the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan office is encouraging families and tourists to visit and enjoy the beach.

According to Archawan Kongkanat, director of Tourism of Thailand (TAT) Prachuap Khiri Khan office, the organization has prepared a tourism events schedule for the whole month of April. Continued …

Pet-friendly V Villas in Hua Hin

Pet-friendly Songkran trip ideas for the whole furry family

Songkran’s a long holiday, and leaving your beloved little ones at home? That just won’t do. Let us show you some of the best places to go on a pet-friendly trip that will take care of everyone, including your furry family members.

When you’re a parent of a furry one, you know it can be quite a big deal to go on vacation. After all, how are they going to survive at home alone? Hotels that are pet-friendly used to be quite hard to come by. But now, you have a lot of choices to choose from across Thailand. Continued …

Thailand expects tourism revenue to hit 80% of pre-Covid level this year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects the country’s tourism sector to generate up to 2.4 trillion baht in revenue this year, or 80% of earnings in 2019, Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Monday.

Roughly 880 billion would come from Thai tourists, while the other 1.5 trillion would be from foreigners, he added. However, Thai tourism is experiencing difficulties because airlines had not yet reached their pre-Covid operating capacity, Yuthasak said. Continued …

Samui Negotiates More Direct Flights as Bookings for Songkran Soar

While Koh Samui is gaining popularity during the upcoming Songkran Festival, tourists are having problems with transportation, as many flights are fully booked. The president of the Koh Samui Tourism Assn. has been in talks with Bangkok Airways and Samui Airport to increase the number of flights to meet tourist demand.

With tourism in Thailand recovering, Koh Samui in Surat Thani province, one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, has seen a sharp increase in tourist numbers since Christmas and until this April. Most travelers come from Europe, Singapore and China, crowding the airport and ferry port. Continued …

TAT keeping track of impact of Chinese tourists

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is addressing concerns over the monopolization of foreign tourism businesses and zero-dollar tours, saying that “they are not a concern” as long as strict law enforcement and collaboration with Beijing continues.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn says that his office in China will continue to monitor these issues and ensure that only Chinese tour companies certified by the Chinese government are allowed to send tour groups to Thailand. Continued …

Chiang Rai skywalk closed for repairs after glass panel shatters

If you were planning on standing on the Chiang Rai skywalk in northern Thailand to stare into a thick layer of hazardous dust this week, think again, because the tourist attraction is now closed for repairs after a piece of the glass floor shattered yesterday.

Tourists standing 486 feet above sea level were terrified yesterday when a loud bang erupted from the “Three Lands Skywalk.” One layer of glass inside one panel on the West wing – about 2.5 by 2 meters long – had shattered. Continued …

The UK students will visit Elephant Nature Park and its founder, Lek

Students from UK high school embark on trip of a lifetime to Thailand

Students from one West Norfolk secondary school in the United Kingdom are embarking on a trip of a lifetime as they leave Lynn for a 17-day adventure in Thailand.

The year 12 students from Springwood High School, which is a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, are taking part in a Thailand Global Citizenship Program, which will see them teach children in a Thai school about climate change, as well as spend time caring for rescued elephants at a sanctuary.

The 15 Springwood students, accompanied by three members of staff, flew to Thailand’s Chiang Mai airport on March 24 before transferring to Mae Sariang, where they will be working with pupils at Ban Kupuang (KP) School. Continued …

Finland joins NATO as Russian war prompts shift

Finland will become the 31st member of NATO today, in a historic strategic shift provoked by Moscow’s war on Ukraine, which doubles the U.S.-led alliance’s border with Russia. 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-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-April 3

  • Thailand’s 45-day visa exemption is back to 30 days/
  • Taxi drivers clash over foreign passengers at Hua Hin train station/
  • Polo on the beach/
  • Thailand is ‘burning’/
  • Three villages in Chiang Mai declared pollution disaster zones/
  • Chiang Rai skies lit up with disquieting message: ‘We can’t breathe’/
  • Thai Real Estate To Attract Foreign Investors up to Bt150 billion/
  • Thailand’s national lottery to stop paying out prizes in cash/
  • Most Thais want to be self-employed/
  • Local waste-to-energy trash solution draws fire/
  • UN group: more can be done for road safety in Thailand/
  • Flu vaccine ‘a top priority’ this year/
  • Chinese student kidnapped, tortured, murdered by gang from China/
  • Many unemployed elephants back home in Surin, huge and hungry/
  • Bangkok makes pact with Moscow to collaborate on 6 areas/
  • Tourism: New electrics make tuk-tuks a safer, cleaner and more convenient service/
  • International: Oil powers announce surprise cuts of more than 1 million bpd/Death toll at 32 after tornadoes hit US South, Midwest, East; more possible/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Thailand’s 45-day visa exemption is back to 30 days

Thailand’s 45-day visa exemption is back down to 30 days for visitors to the kingdom from a list of around 60 countries.

Starting from April 1, visitors from mainland Europe, the UK, the U.S., Australia, Saudi Arabia, and other countries will only be granted a 30-day stay in Thailand if they choose to enter the country without obtaining a prior visa, as the 45-day visa exemption is officially over. Continued …

Taxi drivers clash over foreign passengers at Hua Hin train station

An altercation involving two female taxi drivers, one of whom was a Grab driver, is being investigated by police.

The altercation took place on March 29 outside Hua Hin train station and reportedly began over a fare dispute involving a foreign family of five with their luggage. Continued …

Polo on the beach

The InterContinental–B.Grimm Beach Polo 2023 tournament took place Saturday on Hua Hin beach. The attracted international teams from four countries, as well as scores of spectators. The tournament was held at the beachfront of the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. (HHT)

Thailand is ‘burning’

A list has been compiled of wildfires that have occurred over the past six months versus the same period a year earlier and the amount of land affected.

Forest fires are becoming a common occurrence in the country. The most recent, and perhaps the worst in years, was the blaze that broke out on Khao Chaphlu in Nakhon Nayok’s Khao Laem area on Wednesday. Continued …

Three villages in Chiang Mai declared pollution disaster zones

Three villages in Mueang and Hang Dong districts of Chiang Mai have been declared disaster zones by the provincial administration, as people in the northern capital are being choked by PM2.5 dust, the level of which is many times higher than Thailand’s safety level of 50-microns in many areas.

Deputy Gov. Chatchawarl Panya, acting on behalf of the governor, issued an announcement on Friday declaring Village 7 in Bang Pong subdistrict of Hang Don district, Village 3 in Mae Hia subdistrict and Village 12 in Suthep subdistrict of Mueang district to be disaster zones. Continued …

Chiang Rai skies lit up with disquieting message: ‘We can’t breathe’

A drone light show pleading for farmers to stop burning fields to reduce PM2.5 air pollution in northern Thailand was held on Sunday night at a school in Chiang Rai’s Muang district.

Phrases like “We Can’t Breathe”, “Please Stop Burning” and “Save the North” were spelled out in Thai in the sky above the city by lights from drones. Continued …

Thai Real Estate To Attract Foreign Investors up to Bt150 billion

Wichai Viratakaphan, bank inspector and acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said that the property market in Thailand has recovered since 2022. One of the main driving factors is the close relationship between the sector and the tourism industry.

After surveying 27 Thai provinces in 2022, REIC found that the total value of the industry was Bt390 billion (11.4 billion U.S. dollars), an increase of 1,515% from 2021 when the value was Bt24 billion (704 million U.S. dollars). Continued …

Thailand’s national lottery to stop paying out prizes in cash

The Government Lottery Office has stopped paying out lottery prizes in cash, effective Saturday. Winners can instead claim their prize money through one of three channels, according to government deputy spokesperson Traisuree Traisoranakul.

The winners can have the money transferred to their bank accounts, except when the prize exceeds two million baht, for which the winner must have an account at either the Government Savings Bank or the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC). Continued …

Most Thais want to be self-employed

Now that Thailand’s economy has started picking up, many Thai entrepreneurs are looking for new business opportunities, a recent survey learned.

A poll titled “What do Thais think about business ownership” was conducted last month among 1,207 respondents nationwide and the results were published on Sunday. Continued …

Local waste-to-energy trash solution draws fire

Rather than protecting the environment and people from garbage pollution, the government plans to tackle overflowing waste by promoting small, localized waste-to-energy projects. This could bring about even greater environmental adversity and haze pollution, environmentalists say.

Due to the emission of hazardous pollutants and greenhouse gases from waste-to-energy projects, environmental experts and academics are urging the government to reconsider its strategy. They say it is impractical to create a sustainable waste-management system by prioritizing energy recovery alone. Continued …

UN group: more can be done for road safety in Thailand

Nneka Henry, head of the UN Road Safety Fund (UNRSF), is calling on ASEAN member countries, including Thailand, to work closely with her organization to promote road safety in the region.

Henry, who recently participated in a workshop on Enhanced Regional EU-ASEAN Dialogue or E-READI in Bangkok organized by the European Union and ASEAN Secretariat, expressed her concerns over road safety among ASEAN member countries. Continued …

Flu vaccine ‘a top priority’ this year

Doctors are urging people to receive influenza vaccines to boost their immunity amid concerns that the flu is likely to rebound following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dr. Tawee Chotpitayasunondh, president of the Influenza Foundation, said most people have been focused on how to protect themselves against Covid-19, such as by avoiding large gatherings and putting on face masks. Continued …

Chinese student kidnapped, tortured, murdered by gang from China

Nonthaburi Metropolitan Police on Saturday said three suspects have been identified who fled Thailand on March 30 after brutally torturing and murdering 22-year-old music student Jin Can who was enrolled at Bangkok Thonburi University and only arrived in the kingdom on March 8.

The case has parallels with another kidnap of a Chinese student on March 16 where a ฿3.2 million ransom was paid and police later arrested the gang. Continued …

Many unemployed elephants back home in Surin, huge and hungry

Lucky was busy munching on some freshly cut grass when she spotted a special treat a tourist was holding out. She dropped her next mouthful of greens and extended her trunk, asking for the banana.

For the first time in nine years, Lucky, 32, was back in her home village in rural Surin province in eastern Thailand, where tourists are much rarer than on the resort island where she used to work. Continued …

Bangkok makes pact with Moscow to collaborate on 6 areas

Bangkok and Moscow signed a joint-development pact in a ceremony at City Hall on Friday. Signing the memorandum of understanding were Deputy Bangkok Gov. Jakkapan Phiewngam and Moscow city government Minister Sergey Cheremin, who is also in charge of Moscow’s Department for External Economic and International Relations.

The MoU says the two cities will cooperate and exchange experiences in six aspects from 2023 to 2025, as follows: Continued … 

New electrics make tuk-tuks a safer, cleaner and more convenient service

Three-wheeled vehicles, or tuk-tuks as they are known, are popular among tourists in Thailand due to their distinctive appearance and ability to provide a unique local experience. However, when start-up company Urban Mobility Tech (UMT) surveyed the pain points of passengers in Bangkok using public transportation, they responded that tuk-tuks did not have a standard price and the vehicles created noise and air pollution.

In 2017, UMT decided to launch Muvmi, an electric tuk-tuk company, to provide an environmentally friendly and safe public transportation option to Bangkokians. Continued …

Oil powers announce surprise cuts of more than 1 million bpd

Major oil powers led by Saudi Arabia announced a surprise production cut of more than one million barrels per day on Sunday, calling it a “precautionary” move aimed at stabilizing the market. Continued …

Death toll at 32 after tornadoes hit US South, Midwest, East; more possible

The death toll rose to 32 and more dangerous weather was forecast for a wide swath of the U.S. South and Midwest already in ruins Sunday from a surge of storms that fueled confirmed or suspected tornadoes in at least 11 states. 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-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s News-April 1

  • Red Cross Fair opens bigger and better than before/
  • Doctors issue heatstroke warning as hot season grips Thailand/
  • Inside Thailand’s 200-million-baht war on PM2.5/
  • Thai forest fires worsen pollution that’s left 2 million ill/
  • Khao Chaphlu fire now ‘under control’/
  • Chiang Mai’s severe PM2.5 pollution lands thousands in hospital/
  • National Parks Try To Help Animals Survive Bush Fires and Droughts/
  • Thai Central Bank tightens up measures to protect bank customers/
  • Hacker threatens to publish data of 55 million Thai citizens/
  • 63 Chinese religious refugees detained for overstays/
  • Swede charged for overstaying his visa by 7 years, and conning locals/
  • Thailand gets ready for Songkran with free parking, toll-fee waivers/
  • Thai cops indicted over extortion case with Taiwanese actress/
  • Thai photographer who shot Oscars on how Thailand smothers creativity/
  • Thailand’s wild, wooly and booming weed experiment/
  • Tourism: The power of partnerships: Thailand’s sustainable tourism can thrive with collaboration/Travel agents predict 1 million Chinese in Q2/Phuket crash kills foreigner, the 35th road death on island this year/
  • Thailand Experience: Phetchaburi Salt Festival ongoing until April 2/Salt farming in Thailand – Video/
  • International: East Asia and Pacific regional growth to accelerate as China rebounds/36 Bodies Found Inside Well After Collapse at Hindu Temple/One year on, Ukraine remembers Bucha victims/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Red Cross Fair opens bigger and better than before

The Red Cross Fair, a staple outing for Thais in Hua Hin, began its spring run last night behind the Bluport mall with big crowds and more vendors than in past years. Improvements include canopies over the main vendor areas to protect against rain, although they made the areas uncomfortably hot.

The festival runs through April 9 on Soi 102 behind BluPort, and features numerous food booths, OTOP shops, entertainment and the usual carnival games. Expat News noticed many new foods being presented, as well as the old standbys. There were also new products being hawked by vendors, including marijuana and weed supplies.

Proceeds from the festival go to helping the poor, the handicapped and the underprivileged. Here are a few images from last night.

Doctors issue heatstroke warning as hot season grips Thailand

Doctors have warned people to look out for symptoms of heatstroke as temperatures rise across Thailand.

“As rising hot-season temperatures could hit 40 degrees Celsius in some areas, people who spend a long time outdoors could suffer from heatstroke,” said Dr. Manas Phothaporn, deputy director of the Department of Medical Services on Thursday. Continued …

Inside Thailand’s 200-million-baht war on PM2.5

As Chiang Mai was ranked world’s most polluted city again on Friday, figures show Thai authorities have spent at least 203.83 million baht to tackle PM2.5 in the past seven years (fiscal 2016-2022).

PM2.5 refers to the ultra-fine particles in air pollution that are linked with premature death from heart, lung and other conditions.

Figures compiled by Krungthep Turakij news outlet show Thai authorities have launched at least 761 projects to tackle PM2.5 pollution over the past seven years. Continued …

 

Thai forest fires worsen pollution that’s left 2 million ill

Raging forest fires in northern Thailand are threatening to worsen the country’s air pollution, which has sent nearly 2 million people to hospitals with respiratory illnesses since the beginning of the year.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha on Thursday ordered urgent steps to put out forest fires in Nakhon Nayok province to the east of Bangkok and those in the country’s northern region, including popular tourist destinations Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Continued … 

Khao Chaphlu fire now ‘under control’

A wildfire that was reportedly caused by a lightning strike on Khao Chaphlu in Nakhon Nayok on Tuesday evening has almost been completely contained, with fire barriers set up to prevent the blaze spreading to Khao Yai National Park.

Following the lightning strike, strong winds fueled the fire as it spread to Khao Laem, located near tambon Phrommani and Khao Phra in Muang district, on Wednesday and then Khao Nang Dam on Thursday. Continued …

Chiang Mai’s severe PM2.5 pollution lands thousands in hospital

Respiratory illnesses and allergies caused by severe air pollution have seen as many as 12,671 people admitted to the Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital since Jan. 1 this year.

The actual number, however, is far higher than reported because many patients could not be admitted due to overcrowding, said Dr. Bannakit Lojanapiwat, dean of Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Medicine. Continued …

National Parks Try To Help Animals Survive Bush Fires and Droughts

The temperatures at this time of year are harsh and lead to drought, affecting many wild animals. There are also forest fires in many national parks and conservation areas.

Pattarapol Maneeoan, senior expert veterinarian, also known as Doctor Lot, from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said wild animals are scared during bush fires and use instinct to survive by fleeing the fire. This leads to injuries, in some cases to the bones; in other cases, it can lead to death. Continued …

Thai Central Bank tightens up measures to protect bank customers

Bank customers who want to transfer more than 50,000 baht electronically from their bank accounts are required to have their faces scanned to confirm their banking transactions, under a new set of measures imposed by the Bank of Thailand to protect bank customers from online thieves.

Bank of Thailand Gov. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput has issued an order instructing all financial institutions, including commercial banks, to upgrade their banking systems to cope with increasing online theft from customers’ bank accounts. Continued …

Hacker threatens to publish data of 55 million Thai citizens

A hacker, who goes by the pseudonym of 9Near, threatened to publicly release the personal data of 55 million Thai citizens unless the government contacts the cyberpunk by April 5.

9Near announced on the dark website BreachForums that he had stolen the personal data of 55 million Thai citizens from a government department and was going to sell them. Continued …

63 Chinese religious refugees detained for overstays

Sixty-three Chinese nationals detained in Pattaya for overstaying their visas are members of a self-exiled Christian congregation seeking United Nations protection from religious persecution, their supporters say.

Two Americans who have been trying to help the group relocate to the United States have also been detained, the Wall Street Journal reported. Continued …

Swede charged for overstaying his visa by 7 years, and conning locals

Police have arrested a Swedish man who overstayed his visa by over seven years in Chon Buri. He is also accused of defrauding local Thai people for money.

The Immigration Bureau arrested the 50-year-old Swede, Lennart Alexander, at a rental house in the Si Racha district of Chon Buri. Continued …

Thailand gets ready for Songkran with free parking, toll-fee waivers

State agencies have been instructed to ensure people can travel safely during the April 12-18 Songkran holidays, government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said on Friday.

Thousands of Thais are expected to start heading home from April 12 to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year on April 13. Public holidays for the three-day fest run until April 18 this year. Continued … 

Thai cops indicted over extortion case with Taiwanese actress

Six Thai cops have been indicted by public prosecutors in the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases for allegedly extorting money from a Taiwanese actress in exchange for dropping charges against her. The officers are from Bangkok’s Huai Khwang police station.

According to Kosonlavat Intujunyong, deputy spokesman for the Office of the Attorney-General, the six officers have been charged with demanding and taking bribes in violation of Section 149 of the Criminal Code. The offense carries a jail term from five years to life, or the death penalty and a fine of 100,000-400,000 baht. Continued … 

Thai photographer who shot Oscars on how Thailand smothers creativity

Early in March, Thai photographer Jutharat “Poupay” Pinyodoonyachet made waves when Thais found out she was shooting the 95th Academy Awards for the New York Times.

“Dream until it’s reality. I’M HERE AT THE OSCARS!!!,” the photographer proclaimed in a caption next to a selfie taken earlier this month at the annual awards ceremony. The 30-year-old freelancer moved to New York in late 2019 after becoming fed up with the labor exploitation of Thailand’s movie industry. Continued … 

Thailand’s wild, wooly and booming weed experiment

In June 2022, the Thai government took the bold step of decriminalizing the production, sale and personal use of cannabis. Huge consequences have followed, and other Asian countries should take notice.

An extensive, largely unregulated industry has quickly emerged, surprising many observers. Specialized retail outlets selling cannabis products have proliferated in large cities. Their number seems comparable with conventional pharmacies.

The 3,000 new retail outlets officially registered include both small-scale Thai firms and foreign-owned firms with prior experience in the Amsterdam and California cannabis industries. Foreign firms are especially significant in cities receiving the most foreign tourists. Continued …

The power of partnerships: Thailand’s sustainable tourism can thrive with collaboration

In the deep waters off Phuket, hobby divers scour the sea to pick up garbage on holiday. Elsewhere, in one of Thailand’s many villages, visitors are engrossed in baking banana bread using locally-sourced ingredients. These activities are now in vogue, as the rise of sustainable tourism in the Land of Smiles mirrors a growing worldwide trend that is here to stay.

Research has shown that over 80% of global travelers feel that sustainable travel is important – and Thailand is doubling down on environmentally friendly trips. With tourism a key pillar of the Thai economy, the country is promoting sustainable tourism development in major cities and secondary cities. Continued …

Travel agents predict 1 million Chinese in Q2

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) expects 1 million Chinese tourists in the second quarter of this year, following positive signs of flight resumptions, while urging authorities to help regulate “zero-dollar” tours and illegal tour guides.

Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of ATTA, said as airlines work to increase both scheduled and charter flights, flight supply is ramping up. Continued …

Phuket crash kills foreigner, the 35th road death on island this year

Phuket’s number of road deaths reached 35 this year after a motorcycle crash killed a foreigner early this morning. The accident happened on Karon Beach Road on Phuket’s west coast at about 2.28am, according to the Ruamjai Rescue Foundation.

Rescuers and emergency medical service teams arrived on the scene to find a garbage truck parked on the side of the road. The foreigner’s body and a damaged motorcycle were lying nearby. Continued …

Phetchaburi Salt Festival ongoing until April 2

The Art of Salt festival in Phetchaburi is taking place until April 2 at the Bang Kaeo viewpoint.

The art of sculpting salt into intricate shapes and forms at the festival showcases the creativity and talent of local artisans. The salt sculpture designs vary from small and delicate to large designs showcasing the artists’ skill and creativity.

The fair, which begin s at 4pm daily, also features live music, a light and sound show, and an array of local food. One of the unusual treats to try is the unique sweet salt, which you won’t find anywhere else.

Salt farming in Thailand

Sompong Kaewmorakot has been a salt farmer for over three decades. He shares his thoughts on what it takes to run his farm in Bang Prakong, and his worries about its future. – Bangkok Post

East Asia and Pacific regional growth to accelerate as China rebounds

Growth in developing East Asia and the Pacific is forecast to accelerate in 2023 as China’s economy reopens, while the pace of growth in most of the economies in the rest of the region is anticipated to ease after a strong rebound last year, a World Bank report said on Thursday. Continued … 

36 Bodies Found Inside Well After Collapse at Hindu Temple

Thirty-six bodies have been found inside a well at a Hindu temple in central India after dozens of people attending a festival fell into the muddy water when its cover collapsed, officials said Friday. Continued …

One year on, Ukraine remembers Bucha victims

President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed Friday to defeat Russia, speaking alongside European leaders in Bucha one year after Moscow’s troops withdrew from the Ukrainian town that has become synonymous with war crimes allegations. 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-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

 

chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-March 31

  • Thailand’s extreme air pollution: ‘I feel sorry for my daughter’/
  • Chiang Mai’s Air Ranks Worst Globally Several Days This Week/
  • Mountain blaze nears residential area, threatens Khao Yai/
  • ASEAN to tackle haze crisis/
  • Thai Spirits Businesses Set to Produce One Billion Baht Monthly/
  • From vision to reality: Making the Port Authority of Thailand world-class/
  • 4,500 trips arranged from Bangkok to transport 60,000 people every day during Songkran/
  • World Bank maintains Thailand’s 2023 growth outlook at 3.6%/
  • Thai exports expected to recover in second half of year/
  • Food and beverage industries turning to recycled plastic for packaging/
  • Elderly British man overstays visa in Thailand by 11 years/
  • Thai cop gets 256 years+ for stealing and selling guns from police station/
  • Tourism: Elephant rides are cruel, advocates say. So why are people still doing them?/Tourists flee gang warfare on Chon Buri’s Bang Saen beach/Hong Kong Airlines to launch direct flights to Phuket/
  • International: Former US president Trump indicted/UK claims post-Brexit win with trans-Pacific trade pact membership/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Thailand’s extreme air pollution: ‘I feel sorry for my daughter’

For the past few weeks, Thommamoon Khowasat has painstakingly explained to his four-year-old daughter that the yellow cloud they see outside their window – which has tickled her imagination – is actually a danger to her health.

It’s a scare that has gripped northern Thailand, where millions of people are currently finding it harder to breathe. Continued …

Chiang Mai’s Air Ranks Worst Globally Several Days This Week

The levels of carcinogenic particulate matter 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) in Thailand’s Chiang Mai province has been deemed the worst in the world as of Wednesday morning.

The Command Center for preventing and resolving forest fire problems, smog and PM2.5 fine dust of Chiang Mai reported that 334 hot spots have been discovered in 25 districts across the province. The most effected areas are Chiang Dao district with 65 hot spots, Chai Prakan with 35, Mae Ai with 32, Samoeng with 30, and Fang with 27. Continued …

Mountain blaze nears residential area, threatens Khao Yai

A wildfire that was reportedly caused by a lightning strike on Khao Chaphlu in Nakhon Nayok’s Muang district on Tuesday evening was inching closer to residential areas yesterday after having burned 700 rai of forest across three mountains.

Authorities fear strong winds in the area may cause the fire to spread toward Khao Yai National Park, which is now just three kilometers away from the blaze, said an informed source. The park is a part of the 6,152-square-kilometers of reserved areas that form Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, which became UNESCO’s 184th Natural World Heritage site in 2005. Continued …

ASEAN to tackle haze crisis

The secretary-general of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has pledged to support efforts to combat transboundary haze pollution in the region.

Kao Kim Hourn yesterday paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha at Government House during an official visit to Thailand. Continued …

Thai Spirits Businesses Set to Produce One Billion Baht Monthly

The overall spirits business in Thailand has expanded by 20% since the start of 2023 and is set to pump in one billion baht into the economy every month in the second quarter, said Thanakorn Kuptachit, adviser to the Thai Alcohol Business Assn.

All types of alcoholic beverages have witnessed an uptick in sales volume, such as beer and spirits, which are driven by many factors, including the lifting of all COVID-related restrictions, the reopening of the country for travel and tourism, the upcoming Songkran Festival, or even the general elections. Continued …

From vision to reality: Making the Port Authority of Thailand world-class

Kriengkrai Chaisiriwongsuk, director general of the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT), explains how PAT and partnerships, “work like a charm” to drive PAT to the global stage.

Kriengkrai has completed his first year as the PAT director general. He says he strongly believes in his next step to transform the organization into a world-class port with excellent logistics services. Continued …

4,500 trips arranged from Bangkok to transport 60,000 people every day during Songkran

State-owned and private buses and vans have been arranged to make 4,500 trips every day to carry an estimated 60,000 people back home to the provinces from Bangkok for the long Songkran holidays, the Transport Company announced on Thursday.

Sanyalak Panwattanalikhit, managing director of the state-run Transport Company, said some 60,000 people would leave Bangkok by buses or vans each day from April 10-12. Continued …

World Bank maintains Thailand’s 2023 growth outlook at 3.6%

The Thai economy is expected to grow by 3.6% this year, up from 2.6% last year, supported by stronger private consumption, a recovery in the tourism sector and strong pent-up demand following China’s reopening, the World Bank said on Friday.

The 2023 outlook was unchanged from a forecast in December, and compared with 4.1% growth predicted in September. Continued …

Thai exports expected to recover in second half of year

The Commerce Ministry projects the country’s export sector to gradually recover in the latter part of the year, as inflationary pressures and global supply chain issues align with energy price trends.

The rebound of the service and tourism sectors should also boost demand from trading partners, the ministry said. Continued …

Food and beverage industries turning to recycled plastic for packaging

The world is becoming more aware of the importance of using recycled packaging to protect the environment, in line with the principles of a circular economy where post-consumer recycled PET (PCR PET) plastic resins are used in packaging in the food and beverage industry.

Today, PTT Global Chemical (GC) and ALPLA Group have joined hands with customers and partners to innovate better for consumers, and better for the world, by creating packaging for food and beverages using 100% post consumer recycled PET (PCR PET) plastic resins under the InnoEco brand, in Thailand. This initiative aims to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions to zero, or “Net Zero”. Continued …

Elderly British man overstays visa in Thailand by 11 years

Immigration Police arrested a 76-year-old British man in Bangkok who overstayed his visa in Thailand by a total of 4,142 days (11.3 years).

Thailand’s immigration authorities are taking their latest crackdown on foreign overstayers in the kingdom seriously – catching a British national who managed to slip through their net for more than a decade. He might be the longest overstayer to hit the headlines yet. Continued …

Thai cop gets 256 years+ for stealing and selling guns from police station

The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct cases, Region 1, has sentenced a policeman from the Pak Kret, Nonthaburi police station northwest of the Thai capital Bangkok to more than 200 years for stealing and selling guns from the station’s armory.

The case came to light last October in a report featuring the arrest of Police Senior Sgt. Maj. Chaowalit Pumkajorn. He admitted to stealing a few at a time over five years. Continued …

Elephant rides are cruel, advocates say. So why are people still doing them?

Earlier this month, a photo of Pai Lin made the viral rounds. The image of the septuagenarian female illustrated the dark and painful underbelly of elephant tourism in Thailand. The Asian elephant’s back sloped down like a ramp, the weight of countless visitors crushing her spine.

Pai Lin spent a quarter of a century entertaining tourists. She is now retired, living her remaining years at the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand in Tha Mai Ruak, the sanctuary that released the photo. However, around the world, many elephants and beasts of burden are not so fortunate. New generations of animals have joined their elders in a trade that is still prevalent but has been gaining more vocal opponents over the years. Continued …

Tourists flee gang warfare on Chon Buri’s Bang Saen beach

Gangs of around 20 young motorcyclists fought pitched battles at Bang Saen beach in Saensuk subdistrict of Chonburi on Thailand’s eastern seaboard last night.

Tourists – and they would have been mostly Thai at the resort famous for local tourism – scattered, fearing they might get caught up in the violence. Continued …

Hong Kong Airlines to launch direct flights to Phuket

Low-cost carrier Hong Kong Airlines will launch a direct flight to Phuket in southern Thailand starting June 16.

An Airbus A320 will service the direct Hong Kong–Phuket route four times per week to meet rising demand as tourists return to Thailand in full force. Continued …

Former US president Trump indicted

Former U.S. president Donald Trump was indicted by a Manhattan (New York) grand jury Thursday for his role in a $130,000 hush money payment to Stormy Daniels in the days before the 2016 election. Continued …

UK claims post-Brexit win with trans-Pacific trade pact membership

The UK will join 11 other countries in a major Asia-Pacific trade partnership, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Friday, in the country’s biggest post-Brexit trade deal following nearly two years of talks. 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

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-March 30

  • Hua Hin wants ‘cultural traditions’ observed during Songkran/
  • 600-passenger cruise ship might dock in Hua Hin in May/
  • Beach polo event scheduled Saturday/
  • Forest fire rages on mountains in central Thailand – helicopters to assist today/
  • Only four allowed in back of pickups during Songkran/
  • Take your eyes off your mobile phone, says inventor, 50 years on/
  • Swedish man sentenced to prison for running child porn network in Thailand/
  • Thailand releases pad kaprow flavored condoms/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Higher sugar prices pose new threat to food inflation/CEOs want the next government to cut power costs, stimulate economy/ESG: Poison or Panacea for Thai Business?/Economy faces export clogs with rules in China and ‘green imperialism’ from the European Union/Western slowdown to weigh on Thai production/AIS to invest up to 30 billion baht on infrastructure this year/No more commuting? Thailand enshrines work-from-home culture in law/AOT given green light for ‘airport city’ next to Suvarnabhumi/Heineken sets out sustainable strategy/Thailand’s Long and Bumpy Road to Nuclear Energy Adoption/
  • Tourism: TAT Songkran festival targets four key regions, but not PKK/Who didn’t see this coming? Thousands of Russians and Ukrainians stranded in Thailand/Chiang Mai tour operators concerned over pollution, bookings down 50%/Phuket braces for 10% Songkran spike/Foreign ‘tour guides’ taking jobs that are reserved for Thais/Q1 tourism target exceeded, but what about 45-day visa exemption?/Revival of the “Zero-dollar Tour” Would Cost Thailand THB 3 Trillion/Foreigner deported from China for using cannabis in Thailand/
  • Thailand Experience: Nan Province: A melting pot/Explore Amphawa Floating Market near Bangkok for an authentic Thai experience/
  • International: UK closer to joining Pacific trade pact/Indonesia stripped of hosting rights by FIFA/50 years since US combat troops pulled out of South Vietnam/China’s ‘art factory’ painters turn from fakes to originals/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Hua Hin wants ‘cultural traditions’ observed during Songkran

Hua Hin has released guidelines for 2023 Songkran activities, with the aim to focus on cultural values and traditions under the concept of “continuing the Thai way of Songkran, joining the heart to the world”.

Appropriate traditional activities include cleaning houses, temples and public places, making merit, offering alms to monks, practicing Dharma, listening to sermons, pouring water on Buddha images and offering blessings to the elderly.

The public also is requested to wear traditional Thai dress during participation in activities to create an awareness of the Thai identity to foreigners.

600-passenger cruise ship might dock in Hua Hin in May

The MV Europa, a Maltese-registered luxury cruise liner, has recently requested permission to dock near Hua Hin and allow its 600 passengers to disembark.

The request has sparked discussions among officials at the municipality and the provincial administration who are working to ensure that the necessary measures are in place to make the disembarkation process safe and seamless.

At a meeting held at the Hua Hin municipality on Wednesday, officials discussed the proposed plan for the MV Europa’s arrival. The discussions focused on a range of important issues, including providing immigration services, preventing the spread of communicable diseases, and promoting boat tourism in accordance with government policy. Continued …

Beach polo event scheduled Saturday

The Princess Pa’s Cup beach polo tournament is taking place on Saturday.

This event is set to attract a large audience of polo enthusiasts, socialites, and philanthropists and is being held at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort from 12:30pm to 9pm. Continued … 

Forest fire rages on mountains in central Thailand – helicopters to assist today

Video from the “This is Nakhon Nayok” site showed an out-of-control fire that had been raging for 24 hours last night.

The fire started on Wednesday in the area of Khao Chaphlu and Khao Laem in Khao Phra and Phromanee subdistricts of the central Thailand province. Continued and video …

Only four allowed in back of pickups during Songkran

The chief of the Royal Thai Police, Gen. Damrongsak Kittipraphat, yesterday commented regarding the election and the Songkran holidays.

It will be the chief’s first Songkran in charge next month and he has addressed a perennial concern – the public riding dangerously in the back of pickups. Continued …

Take your eyes off your mobile phone, says inventor, 50 years on

The problem with mobile phones is that people look at them too much. At least, that’s according to the man who invented them 50 years ago.

Martin Cooper, an American engineer dubbed the “Father of the cell phone,” says the neat little device we all have in our pockets has almost boundless potential and could one day even help conquer disease. But right now, we can be a little obsessed. Continued …

Swedish man sentenced to prison for running child porn network in Thailand

A 23-year-old Swedish man who controlled a network of underage girls in Thailand into sending pornographic pictures and videos of themselves from his parent’s home in Stockholm has been sentenced to four years and six months in prison. The material was sold to thousands of people via social media.

Most of the thousands of victims were 13 to 17 years old. They told the authorities they were contacted by men offering money for explicit content. The girls sent the content but never received the money, they told the Thai police. Continued …

Thailand releases pad kaprow flavored condoms

Holy basil lovers, condom brand myONE Thailand has released a special edition “chicken kaprow”-flavored condom.

With April 1 just around the corner, it’s not easy to trust that myONE Thailand is serious about their pad kaprow-flavored contraceptive. But it looks like the holy basil chicken condom is not a hoax. Continued …

Higher sugar prices pose new threat to food inflation

Sugar, consumed in everything from chocolate to fizzy drinks and baked products, is becoming ever more expensive, raising costs for the industry and keeping up pressure on global food inflation.

Prices of refined sugar surged to the highest in more than a decade this week, while the raw variety is near to the costliest in over six years. Global supply is tightening, mainly because India, one of the top shippers, has cut exports after rains hurt the sugar cane crop and as more sweetener is diverted to biofuel. Continued …

CEOs want the next government to cut power costs, stimulate economy

CEOs want the next government to cut energy prices, prevent disruptions in supply chains, and stimulate the economy, a survey of 427 CEOs by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) found.

The cost of energy was the top concern in the survey, which found that 77.8% of CEOs want the next government to lower oil and electricity prices, and about 70% want it to cut the fuel tariff on electricity from September to December. Continued …

ESG: Poison or Panacea for Thai Business?

Considering the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework has been increasingly important in Thailand in recent years. Thai businesses are still learning to fully comprehend the need to integrate ESG factors into their operations in order to safeguard their long-term viability, comply with international standards, and reduce exposure to potential and market threats.

The ESG framework represents a company’s actions and impact on the environment, society, and corporate governance. In fact, the three factors are seen as key indicators of long-term sustainability and financial performance for all firms. However, adopting an ESG framework and integrating ESG considerations into business operations can be challenging for various companies. Continued …

Economy faces export clogs with rules in China and ‘green imperialism’ from the European Union

The Thai central bank raised interest rates on Wednesday even with inflation coming in at only 3.8% for February. The country’s economic ministries, in the meantime, have prioritized the promotion of Thai exports against a backdrop of a more risk-averse world banking system, higher borrowing rates and reduced demand.

Thai exports are also facing challenges in China and Europe due to local regulations and what a legal expert has described as the ‘regulatory imperialism’ of the European Union.

On Tuesday, it was announced that the Fiscal Policy Office has been tasked with closely monitoring trends and potential impediments in the export sector, as the ministry acknowledged that economic growth in 2023 was now dependent on foreign tourism and an uptick in domestic spending. Continued …

Western slowdown to weigh on Thai production

Thai exports are likely to be indirectly affected by banking problems in the U.S. and Europe, slowing an already sluggish sector and causing a drop in the Manufacturing Production Index (MPI), according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

The index dipped 0.45% to 98.9 points in February on a monthly basis, with the March MPI unlikely to improve, as foreign demand for Thai products remains weak amid a sluggish economy in the U.S. and European countries, said Warawan Chitaroon, director-general of the OIE. Continued …

AIS to invest up to 30 billion baht on infrastructure this year

Mobile operator Advanced Info Service is investing 27 billion to 30 billion baht this year to upgrade its telecom infrastructure to support emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, and the internet of things, its CEO told a press conference on Wednesday.

AIS CEO Somchai Lertsutiwong said its goal is to strengthen its infrastructure so that any person or company can use services to improve their quality of life or increasing business efficiency. Continued …

No more commuting? Thailand enshrines work-from-home culture in law

Thailand has become the latest country to enshrine rights for working from home, offering protection to a growing number of people who are keen to work from home but unsure about the law and guidelines.

The move comes as more employees find the line between their personal life and work is becoming blurred, with bosses expecting them to be available at all hours. Continued …

AOT given green light for ‘airport city’ next to Suvarnabhumi

Airports of Thailand will proceed with its plan to transform 723 rai of land adjacent Suvarnabhumi International Airport into “airport city” now that the Interior Ministry has amended the zoning code in Samut Prakan to allow the project to proceed, its president said.

The Interior Ministry recently published an announcement in the Royal Gazette saying it had given approval for farmland around Suvarnabhumi airport in Samut Prakan to be used for infrastructure and buildings, AOT President Nitinai Sirismatthakarn said. Continued …

Heineken sets out sustainable strategy

Dutch beer brand Heineken is committed to pursuing sustainable brewing and clean energy as part of its business priorities over the long term.

Solar panels are installed at TAP’s brewery in Nonthaburi, covering an area of four acres, equivalent to two football fields. When fully operational, the solar farm can generate 30% of the electricity required for the brewhouse.

“Heineken recognizes that business growth and sustainability are interconnected, The company’s ‘Brew a Better World’ vision promotes water stewardship, reducing CO2 emissions, sourcing sustainably, advocating responsible consumption, promoting health and safety, and growing with communities,” said Thum Chee Yuen, managing director of Thai Asia-Pacific Brewery (TAP), the brewer and distributor of Heineken in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand’s Long and Bumpy Road to Nuclear Energy Adoption

In many respects, Thailand is an extremely fortunate nation. It is located in the heart of Southeast Asia, with no threat of food shortages, no major state or non-state enemies, and no severe risks of natural disasters (this point, though, is debatable as Thailand is said to be one of the top 10 countries in the world most impacted by climate change). But when it comes to energy security, Thais should be concerned.

Thailand is, after all, a net importer of oil and natural gas, and its existing reserves – most notably the one in the Gulf of Thailand – are running low. To satisfy its people’s skyrocketing demand, the Thai government does not have much of a choice but to keep relying on imported energy sources (and grudgingly accepting rising prices in the process). Continued … 

TAT Songkran festival targets four key regions, but not PKK

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will run a series of events dubbed “Water Festival 2023” in four regions between April 13-16, in conjunction with Thai Beverage Public Co. (ThaiBev) and other partners.

Suraphon Svetasreni, chairman of the organizing committee, said on Wednesday that the events are also being supported by the Culture Ministry, Royal Thai Navy, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), private and government networks, as well local communities. Continued …

Who didn’t see this coming? Thousands of Russians and Ukrainians stranded in Thailand

While many Russians have been investing in villas and homes in Thailand, there are also thousands of Russians and Ukrainians who are stranded in the country due to the ongoing war following the invasion of Russian troops into Ukraine.

Around 7,000 Russians and Ukrainians are currently stranded in Thailand, with many of them currently in Phuket. The island used to attract 8–9 million overseas visitors in the years up to 2019, but the pandemic has caused a significant drop in tourism. Continued …

Chiang Mai tour operators concerned over pollution, bookings down 50%

Tour operators in Chiang Mai raised concerns after the latest tourism figures revealed bookings were down 50% after the popular tourist destination was ranked the world’s most polluted city. But that’s not all, respiratory diseases in the province continue to rise.

The air quality index produced by Swiss company IQAir revealed that Chiang Mai had a reading of 216 at noon yesterday, which is considered “very unhealthy.” Anything above 51 is a cause for concern. In comparison, Bangkok had a reading of 80, while Birmingham and London had readings of 25 and 8, respectively. Continued …

Phuket braces for 10% Songkran spike

Phuket expects to see a 10% increase in hotel bookings during the Songkran festival next month.

Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said on Wednesday the government’s We Travel Together tourism stimulus campaign has attracted more visitors to Phuket to celebrate the Thai New Year on April 13-15. Continued …

Foreign ‘tour guides’ taking jobs that are reserved for Thais

The caretaker Thai PM, Prayut Chan-o-cha, has ordered strict legal action against foreigners who are working as tour guides, which is a profession exclusively reserved for Thai nationals.

This announcement came after several complaints were filed, citing violation of the executive decree of 2017. According to government deputy spokeswoman Traisuree Taisarakul, the law clearly states that foreigners cannot work without a permit or fill jobs reserved for Thai citizens, including tour guide positions. Continued …

Q1 tourism target exceeded, but what about 45-day visa exemption?

Thailand has exceeded its target for tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2023, with a total of 6.15 million visitors from January to March 27. The government had initially aimed for 6 million arrivals during this period.

The numbers coincide with the government’s extension of the usual 30-day visa waiver (for 64 countries) to 45 days. The extension was valid between the start of October, 2022, and March 31, 2023. No announcements have since been made to extend the 45-day visa waiver beyond the end of March, although both the Thai Tourism and Sports Ministers and the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand have expressed their interest in proposing an extension. Continued … 

Revival of the “Zero-dollar Tour” Would Cost Thailand THB 3 Trillion

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MOTS) has met urgently to prevent the resurgence of the zero-dollar tour, fearing that it will sabotage the country’s upcoming tourism revenue.

Arrun Boonchai, permanent secretary of MOTS, said that following the opening of the Chinese border to international travel without restrictions on Feb. 6, the ministry has discovered several travel agencies from China advertising travel packages that are significantly below the cost of operation, a tactic known as the “zero-dollar tour”. Continued …

Foreigner deported from China for using cannabis in Thailand

A foreigner of unknown nationality was allegedly deported from Shanghai, China, for testing positive for cannabis upon returning from Thailand, where marijuana is legal.

Getting high is normal in Thailand since cannabis was decriminalized almost a year ago. But China doesn’t share Thailand’s liberal stance on the psychoactive plant. Continued …

Nan Province: A melting pot

Late in the morning, my caffeine-dependent friends and I made a pit stop at the newly opened Pua Tobacco Barn Café & Eatery to refuel before leaving the popular town of Pua, close to the Xienghone-Hongsa special economic zone between Nan and Laos.

Sitting there and observing the surroundings reminded me of the good old days when Pua district served as one of the Tobacco Authority of Thailand’s primary suppliers in the northern region, with more than 1,000 rai of tobacco plants spanning the whole neighborhood. Continued …

Explore Amphawa Floating Market near Bangkok for an authentic Thai experience

Dense evergreen forests criss-crossed with a series of rivers and rivulets have always been a key feature of southeast Asia’s natural vegetation. Over the years, this unique vegetation has led to the development of an amazing water transport system, along with a unique water-based lifestyle, revolving around floating markets.

For centuries, the floating markets have played an integral role in shaping the lives of the citizens of Southeast Asian countries like Thailand. In recent years, the Thai lifestyle has changed and water transport has largely been replaced by road transport running along the network of highways stretching all across Thailand.

The floating markets have lost much of their significance. But Thailand authorities have come up with a unique plan of revamping the floating markets and turning them into tourist hot spots. Continued …

UK closer to joining Pacific trade pact

Members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership are expected to agree this month on allowing Britain to join the free trade pact, Japanese government sources said on Wednesday. Continued …

Indonesia stripped of hosting rights by FIFA

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has stripped Indonesia of the right to stage this year’s Under-20 World Cup, over what an Indonesian official said was a failure to honur its commitments to the tournament. Continued …

50 years since US combat troops pulled out of South Vietnam

Wednesday marked the 50th anniversary of combat troops departing South Vietnam, the beginning of the end of the United States’ direct military involvement in the unpopular war. Continued …

China’s ‘art factory’ painters turn from fakes to originals

Painters in a Chinese village once known for churning out replicas of Western masterpieces are now making original art worth thousands of dollars, selling their own works in a booming domestic art market. 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

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, climate change, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-March 29

  • Water supply disruptions in parts of Cha Am Thursday/
  • Is Thailand really immune to the banking turmoil in the US and Europe?/
  • New electricity rates won’t be lowered/
  • PM2.5 pollution worsens in north, hospitals said prepared/
  • Chiang Mai city, airport shrouded in pollution from forest burning/
  • Neighboring countries eyed to help curb haze/
  • Thailand sees 8,000-plus new businesses vs 869 closures in February/
  • Thai children ‘most likely’ to suffer climate impact/
  • Thai to be taught at Harvard/
  • ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 will likely take place on Koh Samui/
  • Tourism: Songkran festivals around Thailand/Airlines juggle demand as fares skyrocket/How Koh Larn became ‘Trash Island’ and what is being done to fix it/Humans frolic with sharks as eco-tourism flourishes in Maya Bay/Bangkok canal lights up with vendors, live music, art, and open-air cinema/Iraqi Man Faints Upon Being Caught Overstaying More Than 8 Years/
  • Thailand Experience: Top 5 hotels in Hua Hin/10 best luxury hotels and resorts on Koh Samui/How to See Over 100 Temples in One Day/Mountain Lanes Around Chiang Mai Are Perfect For A Motorbike Road Trip/‘Thai cuisine is not just street food’/How Bangkok’s Le Du became The Best Restaurant in Asia 2023/5 top-rated medical cannabis clinics in Bangkok/
  • International: Alibaba Group to split into six units, explore IPOs/China allows five female pilots to fly heavy-duty fighter jets/Sugar traps put damper on cockroaches’ sex life/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Water supply disruptions in parts of Cha Am Thursday

Is Thailand really immune to the banking turmoil in the US and Europe?

The global financial markets are highly interconnected. When Thailand’s banking system suffered a collapse and the baht’s value plummeted in 1997, the contagion effect spread to other Asian countries. Similarly, one saw the global financial crisis triggered by the collapse of Lehman Brothers Bank in the United States in 2008.

Recently, U.S. regulators had to shut down two regional banks — Signature Bank (SB) and Silicon Valley Bank (SVB). SB’s core business was related to cryptocurrency, while SVB largely serviced startup companies and venture capitalists. Continued …

New electricity rates won’t be lowered

A uniform electricity rate of 4.77 baht/unit for both households and businesses from May through August cannot be lowered, Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Supattanapong Panmeechaow said on Tuesday. The new rate caused a stir as the government earlier promised to maintain the rate for household users at 4.72 baht per unit. Continued …

PM2.5 pollution worsens in north, hospitals said prepared

The Public Health Ministry’s permanent secretary is visiting northern provinces to ensure people suffering physical problems from the worsening pollution can get medical help.

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Tuesday that Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, the ministry’s permanent secretary, is in the North to monitor people’s health in response to the worsening PM2.5 pollution. Continued …

Chiang Mai city, airport shrouded in pollution from forest burning

Air quality in northern Thailand climbed to hazardous levels on Monday as a result of seasonal agricultural burning in the region.

Local media reported that 4,115 hot spots were detected in northern Thailand in the past 24 hours. Parts of Bangkok on Monday hit an air quality index (AQI) reading of 582, making it 124.9 times above a recommended limit given by the World Health Organization (WHO). Video …

Neighboring countries eyed to help curb haze

The government is seeking cooperation with neighboring countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to combat the transboundary haze pollution choking the region.

Speaking after yesterday’s cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said the issue must be put on ASEAN’s agenda if a solution is to be found. Continued …

Thailand sees 8,000-plus new businesses vs 869 closures in February

As many as 869 companies with a combined capital of 2.94 billion baht ceased operations in February, though the number of newly registered businesses was far larger.

Thosapone Dansuputra, director-general of the Department of Business Development (DBD), said on Tuesday that 869 businesses announced last month that they were wrapping up. Continued …

Thai children ‘most likely’ to suffer climate impact

Children in the northeastern and southern regions of Thailand face the highest risk of climate change, according to a study released yesterday by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The study, titled “Impact Assessment of Climate Change and Environmental Degradation on Children in Thailand”, is the first of its kind in Thailand, examining the impact of climate change specifically on children across provinces, incomes, disabilities, and ages, said Kyungsun Kim, UNICEF representative for Thailand. Continued …

Thai to be taught at Harvard

Harvard university’s Department of South Asian Studies will hire three instructors to teach Tagalog, Bahasa Indonesia, and Thai for the academic year 2023 to 2024.

Harvard University will soon offer a course on Tagalog, the fourth most spoken language in the United States, according to a report in the student paper Harvard Crimson. Continued …

‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 will likely take place on Koh Samui

Thailand will host the most-privileged behaving at their worst, and we’re not talking about a typical night in Thonglor.

Amid swirling rumors that the next season of black comedy-drama “The White Lotus” would take place in Asia, a Hollywood industry publication reported that it will take place in Thailand. Continued …

Songkran festivals around Thailand

Filled full of festivals, fun and frolics, April is one of the most celebrated months of the year in Thailand with the traditional Thai New Year of Songkran one of the most culturally important celebrations in the kingdom.

The Songkran festival is known worldwide and is celebrated to honor family values, pay respect to seniors, and participate in traditional ceremonies throughout the nation’s temples. This festival is observed as a three-day national holiday from April 13 to April 15 in Thailand. However, some locations also celebrate this festival a little later with unique local festivities. Continued …

Airlines juggle demand as fares skyrocket

Global aviation has experienced a promising start to the year, as travel restrictions have been lifted, allowing people to fly with fewer barriers. Even countries with strict Covid-19 policies, such as China, lifted their restrictions earlier than expected.

The World Tourism Organization predicts Europe and the Middle East will reach pre-pandemic international tourist levels this year, forecasting an 80%-95% overall recovery, while the Pacific Asia Travel Assn. projects a growth rate of at least 71%. Continued …

How Koh Larn became ‘Trash Island’ and what is being done to fix it

Koh Larn, an island lying in the gulf off Pattaya, has been attracting thousands of local and foreign tourists for decades, but this has undeniably led to a mountain of garbage, resulting in an enormous landfill on the small island.

“In the past, about 10 tons of garbage were generated each day on Koh Larn, but because the number of tourists has been increasing, the amount of garbage has doubled,” said Manoch Nongyai, deputy governor of Pattaya City. Continued …

Humans frolic with sharks as eco-tourism flourishes in Maya Bay

Maya Bay in Krabi is open and teeming with life again after four years of rehabilitation since being closed to tourists in 2018.

Made famous by “The Beach” (2000), a Hollywood blockbuster starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Maya Bay in Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park became the victim of its success as the tourism industry took a toll on its pristine coral reefs, aquamarine waters, and beach.

But visitors are now back, literally immersing themselves in the rebirth of the natural surroundings. Tourists are now paddling with sharks, as Maya Bay strikes a balance between wildlife and the tourism industry on which locals depend. Video …

Bangkok canal lights up with vendors, live music, art, and open-air cinema

A festival atmosphere has engulfed Phadung Krung Kasem Canal in central Bangkok, which is hosting vendors, live music, art, and open-air cinema until April 5.

The “@ Phadung Krung Kasem” festival was launched on Monday by Suksan Kittisupakorn, deputy permanent-secretary of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. Continued …

Iraqi Man Faints Upon Being Caught Overstaying More Than 8 Years

An Iraqi man who overstayed in Thailand for more than eight years fainted when Chonburi Immigration and Pattaya police showed up at his house to arrest him yesterday.

Police Col. Prinya Klinkasorn, head of Chonburi Immigration police, said the Iraqi man, identified as Khalid Majeed Ali, 52, had hidden in Pattaya’s Mabyailia community for a long time. He did not have a job nor did he socialize with anyone and it was feared he might turn to crime. Continued …

Top 5 hotels in Hua Hin

Picture yourself lounging on a pristine beach, sipping a cool drink as the warm sun bathes your skin. The sound of gentle waves lapping at the shore lulls you into a state of complete relaxation.

In the distance, palm trees sway in the breeze, their leaves rustling softly in the wind. This is the scene that awaits you in Hua Hin, Thailand’s premier destination for luxury vacationing.

Hua Hin is a haven for those seeking a truly indulgent holiday experience. From its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife to its world-class dining and exceptional hospitality, Hua Hin has everything you need to make your next vacation unforgettable. Continued …

10 best luxury hotels and resorts on Koh Samui

Looking to splash out on a lavish Songkran escape? Then Koh Samui, the ultimate destination for luxury and relaxation, is the perfect place to go. With its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural beauty, Koh Samui is a paradise for travelers seeking a touch of indulgence. And with so many amazing luxury hotels and resorts to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice!

The Ritz Carlton- Koh Samui

The Ritz Carlton-Koh Samui is a seaside resort that offers unique experiences that inspire memorable moments. The resort is nestled in the midst of a private, sun-kissed bay. At this resort, you will have the opportunity to heal your mind, body, and soul through health programs, cultural immersions, and gastronomic adventures. Continued …

How to See Over 100 Temples in One Day

When traveling to Thailand, one of the most fascinating things to do is explore the ancient temples. There’s hundreds of temples Bangkok, the capital city, alone. If you are short on time, it may seem impossible to see them all. But my husband and I came across a little-known solution.

We were Southeast Asian on vacation and an unexpected layover landed us in Bangkok. Although we only had a few hours, the temple grounds were calling us and we wanted to see as many religious artifacts as possible. To make this happen, we took a taxi about 45 minutes outside of the capital to a place called Muang Boran, or Ancient City. Continued and video …

Mountain Lanes Around Chiang Mai Are Perfect For A Motorbike Road Trip

Chiang Mai is the second-largest city of Thailand and is the main northern city of the Southeast Asian country. Thailand is a country famous for its tropical and idyllic beaches of Phuket in the south, the bustling metropolis of Bangkok with its temples and adult attractions in the middle, and Chiang Mai, with its mountains in the north.

Chiang Mai is one of the ancient Thai cities. Unlike European cities, most of the historic buildings of the city have been lost. However, the city preserves the ancient city plan with the city moats, parts of the old city walls, and many of the old temples. Continued …

Thai chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn using caviar from a Thai sturgeon farm to create a dish at his Nusara restaurant in Bangkok

‘Thai cuisine is not just street food’

Thailand reigned supreme at the 2023 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, with nine restaurants from the capital, Bangkok, ranked – a total matched by Singapore.

The crown of Asia’s Best Restaurant was awarded to Thai chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn’s modern Thai kitchen Le Du. One of his newer venues, Nusara, which pays tribute to his grandmother’s cooking, was in third place.

Also in the top 10 was Gaggan Anand, the latest incarnation of the eponymously named Bangkok restaurant of chef Gaggan Anand that previously topped the list a record four times, and Sorn, the traditional Southern Thai restaurant headed by chef Supaksorn “Ice” Jongsiri. Continued …

How Bangkok’s Le Du became The Best Restaurant in Asia 2023

For the first time in 10 years, an eatery honoring Thai cuisine tops the list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna: Bangkok’s Le Du, created by chef Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn. As Bangkok takes back the gastronomic crown, Tassanakajohn reflects on what the award means to him and his country.

Restaurant Le Du in Bangkok was named No.1 in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 to the joyous cheers of the chefs, media and industry VIPs gathered at a glamorous awards ceremony at Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore, where the Asian gastronomic community was reunited again in-person for the first time since 2019. Continued …

5 top-rated medical cannabis clinics in Bangkok

As medical cannabis gains recognition worldwide, Bangkok is becoming a hub for top-notch clinics catering to those seeking alternative forms of treatment. With the legalization of cannabis in Thailand, medical cannabis clinics have become more prevalent, and we have rounded up the top five in Bangkok for your consideration.

Whether you’re looking for relief from chronic pain, anxiety, or depression, these cannabis clinics offer a range of products and services to help you achieve your health goals.

BNH Hospital

BNH Hospital is a medical institution that has been serving the community for over 124 years. And it continues to offer world-class medical services. Today, it’s also popular for its top-notch medical cannabis clinic, known as BLOOM UP by BNH. The medical cannabis clinic is managed by a team of doctors and pharmacists who have certifications and training to use medicinal cannabis extracts. Continued …

Alibaba Group to split into six units, explore IPOs

Alibaba Group Holding is planning to split its business into six main units covering e-commerce, media and the cloud, the company said on Tuesday, adding that each of the units will explore fundraising or initial public offerings. Continued …

China allows five female pilots to fly heavy-duty fighter jets

The People’s Liberation Army Air Force now has its first female pilots who can operate heavy-duty fighter jets, according to the Air Force. The Air Force said the five female flight students, who are currently in the middle of training for heavy-duty combat aircraft, recently carried out their first solo flights in the J-11 fighter jet. Continued …

Sugar traps put damper on cockroaches’ sex life

Humans using sugar in cockroach traps has inadvertently led to female roaches being turned off by the sugary “gifts” males use to entice them into mating. 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

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-March 28

  • Food Carnival at Market Village through April 16/
  • Old Days Festival at Bluport this weekend/
  • Hua Hin Red Cross Fair starts Friday/
  • Choking Chiang Rai locals protest as PM2.5 soars to 11 times safe level/
  • Return of Russian, Chinese buyers sparks Phuket real estate boom/
  • Report: People in Thailand spend too much time on their backsides/
  • Thai beer crusader faces 750K baht fine for posts about craft brewing/
  • PTT Oil and Retail plans 500 new EV charging stations/
  • Amcham scholarship applications open/
  • Rajanee Sripaipan: Physician treats children — and their children/
  • Tourism: TAT raises expectations for Chinese visitors this year/Bangkok governor bans alcohol, water guns, powder during Songkran/Improved language skills needed to boost medical hub goals/Foreign tourists attack restaurant staff in Payong/Police in Bangkok Warn of Pickpockets at Popular Markets/Foreign thieves preying on tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport arrested/Indian man overstays visa in Thailand by 2,048 days/
  • International: In inflation-hit Germany, massive strike over pay to cripple transport/Ukraine gets new heavy tanks, Russia doubles down on nuke plans/Europe’s biggest economy moves closer to weed legalization/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Hua Hin Red Cross Fair starts Friday

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.

Choking Chiang Rai locals protest as PM2.5 soars to 11 times safe level

Northern Thailand once again topped the world pollution rankings on Monday, with Chiang Mai registering a high of 287 micrograms of PM2.5 dust per cubic meter (μg/m3) but Chiang Rai hitting 542 μg/m3.

Chiang Mai retained its No 1 spot as the world’s most polluted city on the IQAir global index, which does not feature Chiang Rai. Thailand’s safe limit for PM2.5 – fine-dust pollution linked with early death from heart and/or lung conditions – is 50μg/m3. Continued …

Return of Russian, Chinese buyers sparks Phuket real estate boom

Independent real estate agent and consultancy Knight Frank sees strong demand for property in Phuket, due to the return of Russian and Chinese buyers, driving prices up by 15%-20% in some areas.

Nattha Kahapana, managing director of Knight Frank Thailand, said at a press briefing on Monday titled “Knight Frank Foresight 2023: It’s time to look beyond the crisis” that the return of demand was clearly seen during the fourth quarter of last year. Continued …

Report: People in Thailand spend too much time on their backsides

People in Thailand spend too much time sitting on their backsides, a new study reveals.

The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) revealed that 76% of Thai people spend seven hours or more sitting down, underlining the need for the nation’s population to get off their arses and engage in more physical activity to improve their health and well-being. Continued …

Thai beer crusader faces 750K baht fine for posts about craft brewing

A Thai advocate for reforming alcohol laws faces prosecution and hefty fines for posting photos of craft beer in recent years.

One week after Thanakorn “Benz” Tuamsa-ngiam hosted a large gathering of like-minded beer fans, the activist has been charged with illegally promoting alcohol via his online community for Prachachon Beer (“Beer People”). He now faces a fine of at least THB750,000 (US$22,000). Continued …

PTT Oil and Retail plans 500 new EV charging stations

Oil and gas retailer PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc on Monday said it plans to invest $900 million this year to expand its local and overseas business.

PTT Oil and Retail, a unit of the state-owned energy giant PTT Plc, said 22% of the budget would be used to expand its network of gas and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Continued …

Amcham scholarship applications open

The American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand Foundation (ATF) is now accepting applications for its 2023 scholarship program.

Each year, the ATF selects deserving Thai university students to complete their studies through targeted scholarships. This year, the foundation aims to provide 85 scholarships to deserving students and expand the program to include vocational colleges. Continued … 

Rajanee Sripaipan: Physician treats children — and their children

Dr. Rajanee Sripaipan has been a pediatrician in the Copper Country for nearly 50 years. She treats sniffles, saves little lives, and everything in between.

Sripaipan hails originally from Bangkok, Thailand. After receiving her medical degree from Mahidol University Faculty of Medicine there, she came to the United States to do an internship at Highland Park General Hospital in suburban Detroit and a residency in pediatrics at Children’s Hospital of Michigan. Continued …

TAT raises expectations for Chinese visitors this year

The target for inbound Chinese tourists this year has been upgraded to 6-7 million from 5 million, with more than 250,000 of them scheduled to visit Thailand in April, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Tanes Petsuwan, TAT deputy governor for Asia and the South Pacific, said the Chinese market has grown every month since the mainland lifted travel restrictions in January. Continued …

Bangkok governor bans alcohol, water guns, powder during Songkran

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt said preparations are underway to celebrate Songkran next month, but a quadruple ban is being imposed, including no sale and consumption of alcohol, using high-pressure water guns, smearing powder and wearing revealing clothes.

Speaking after chairing the executive board meeting on the upcoming traditional Thai New Year festival, Chadchart said events are being held at the City Hall square during April 12-14. Continued … 

Improved language skills needed to boost medical hub goals

Thailand’s wellness and medical sector is already at a phenomenon level; all it needs is to develop skilled medical professionals with language capabilities, said Timothy Lertsmitivanta, the chief executive officer of Thonburi Wellbeing Co.

“Thailand is very well known for hospitality, and it has established a medical hub in Asia and is leading the way in Southeast Asia,” he said. “We already have strength in hospitality tourism and wellness.” Continued …

Foreign tourists attack restaurant staff in Payong

A group of foreign tourists is being sought by the police after they assaulted staff at a restaurant in Soi San Sabai around 1am this morning. According to reports, the tourists, who are believed to be Jordanians and at least one Egyptian, were drunk, agitated and unruly when they were asked to queue properly.

They started throwing water bottles and attacked Thai staff before fleeing the scene. Continued …

Police in Bangkok Warn of Pickpockets at Popular Markets

Police in Bangkok visited the Chatuchak Market this past weekend to ensure tourist safety after many tourists reported that items were stolen from their bags by clever pickpockets.

The Bangsue Police led by Police Chief Col. Puwadon Ounpoe said the inspection came after recently there had been many reports of thieves stealing from tourists’ bags by cutting them loose or pickpocketing while the tourists were shopping in the market and nearby, especially foreign tourists. Continued …

Foreign thieves preying on tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport arrested

The director of Suvarnabhumi Airport, along with airport and tourist police, have announced the arrest of three members of a Mongolian gang preying on foreign and Thai tourists at the airport. There are many victims of the gang and several gang members are still at large.

The traveling public has been warned about taking care with their possessions as security is stepped up at Thailand’s largest airport. Continued …

Indian man overstays visa in Thailand by 2,048 days

Immigration police arrested an Indian national in Chon Buri province, eastern Thailand, found to have overstayed his visa by 2,048 days (more than five and a half years). Police believe he is part of a call center gang.

The police stopped 38-year-old Jatinder Singh – who resides in the Na Jomtien area of Sattahip district – outside of the Ocean Marina Yacht Club and asked to see his passport, but Singh said he had lost it. Continued …

In inflation-hit Germany, massive strike over pay to cripple transport

A massive strike in Germany was set to begin early Monday, crippling mass transport and airports in one of the biggest walkouts in decades, as Europe’s largest economy reels from soaring inflation. Continued …

Ukraine gets new heavy tanks, Russia doubles down on nuke plans

Germany and Britain have delivered Western heavy tanks to Ukraine, officials said Monday, providing a key infusion of armored firepower that will aid Kyiv’s battle against invading Russian troops. Continued … 

Europe’s biggest economyps://www.bangkokpost.com/world/2537335/ukraine-gets-new-heavy-tanks-russia-doubles-down-on-nuke-plans moves closer to weed legalization

Germany could be weeks away from introducing a bill to legalize cannabis under sweeping reforms that would greenlight the consumption and sale of the drug in Europe’s largest economy. 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

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

 

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-March 24

  • Hua Hin-PKK double-track rail to open next year/
  • Officials warn of 100,000-baht fine for smoking on Hua Hin beach/
  • Thailand Privilege Card to hold free networking and golf event in Hua Hin/
  • Your 20-baht note may be worth 3000 baht/
  • Chinese nationals bought nearly half of condo units sold to foreigners in 2022/
  • Thai industry group uneasy over banking crisis/
  • NE Thai company producing floating homes/
  • Prachinburi locals make 3 demands over radiation fears/
  • KResearch says global banking crisis will pressure Thai exports/
  • America’s Globalstar will provide satellite services in Thailand/
  • 2023 technology trends for digital transformation in business/
  • Thai SEA Games jerseys made with recycled plastic bottles unveiled/
  • Bangkok halts Bt30-billion Chao Phraya riverfront project/
  • SPCG expects solar panel revenue to reach Bt1 billion/
  • Building businesses on the legalization of marijuana in Chiang Mai/
  • Tourism: Thailand sees 6M foreign tourist arrivals in Q1/TIME Magazine Lists Phuket and Isan Among World’s Greatest Places/Bangkok ranks #5 on Airbnb’s list of top trending global travel spots/Tourist ‘damaged Thai tourism’ by reporting bungee mishap to foreign media/Adang Island in Satun Is Set to Be Developed as World-Class Tourism Destination/AOT Unveils Plan to Expand Don Mueang Airport Terminal for Tourism Boost/U-tapao expansion likely delayed/Thailand’s most beautiful beaches for the beach lover in you/
  • International: Trade Between China, Mekong Countries Hits $416.7B in 2022/Russian support for Myanmar junta ‘destabilizing’ Southeast Asia: US envoy/How Vietnam is trying to stop rice warming the planet/US state to require parental consent for social media/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Hua Hin-PKK double-track rail to open next year

The double-track railway between Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan stations looks set to be opened next year, as most of the project’s civil engineering work has been completed, according to the State Railway of Thailand.

The tracks are currently undergoing testing to estimate travel times and ensure safe shunting, which has produced satisfactory results so far.

The 84-kilometer-long double-track railway is constructed parallel to the old, single track, which serves the main southern line. The new tracks will pass two bridges, 12 stations, one halt and two container yards, at Sam Roi Yot and Thung Mamao stations. – Bangkok Post

Officials warn of 100,000-baht fine for smoking on Hua Hin beach

Officials have brought their new campaign to discourage smoking to Hua Hin beach, in an effort to keep the area clean and protect public health.

On Thursday, officials visited the beach holding signs warning that anyone found smoking on the beach faces a hefty fine of up to 100,000 THB and/or 1 year in jail.

The “Smoke-free Beach” campaign is being led by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Region 3 (DMCR3), and aims to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking on the beach, both in terms of health and environmental impact. Continued …

Thailand Privilege Card to hold free networking and golf event in Hua Hin

Thailand is a country that attracts many foreigners who want to live, work or retire. However, for some people who want to stay for an extended period of time, the process of obtaining a visa can be complex and time-consuming.

Fortunately, the Thailand Privilege Card – Exclusive Residence Program offers a solution that is both convenient and cost-effective.

To promote this program, a free networking dinner party is being held for foreigners in Hua Hin on March 30 at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, starting at 5pm. Continued …

Your 20-baht note may be worth 3,000 baht

A collector of coins and bank notes went on a Facebook page (By Gig) to advise people to check their 20-baht new plastic bills.

The ones without a strip as shown in the photograph could be worth up to 3,000 baht.

The poster said that since advertising this more than a month ago, no one had come forward but the notes were out there somewhere. Continued …

Chinese nationals bought nearly half of condo units sold to foreigners in 2022

Chinese citizens bought the most number of condominiums in Thailand among foreigners in 2022, the Government Housing Bank’s Real Estate Information Centre (REIC) reported on Thursday.

The ownership of 11,561 condominium units worth 59.26 billion baht were transferred to foreigners last year, the centre said.

Foreign nationals who bought the most number of condominiums last year were: Continued …

Thai industry group uneasy over banking crisis

Domestic car and motorcycle sales may bear the brunt if Thai financial institutions are affected by the risk of failed banks in the U.S. and Europe, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The concern was raised after U.S. and European banking executives and regulators stepped in to save California-based Silicon Valley Bank, New York-based Signature Bank and 167-year-old Credit Suisse in Zurich, Switzerland, from potential crisis.

If the financial turbulence cannot be contained, the global financial system will be affected, which may eventually have a negative impact on Thai banks and non-banks that grant loans to car and motorcycle buyers, said Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the FTI and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club. Continued …

NE Thai company producing floating homes

Business is booming for a Khon Kaen, northeast Thailand, company that is producing made-to order-floating homes. The media called them Hobbit houses. The floating homes and larger restaurants known as “phae” in Thai are proving popular with both Thais and foreigners. (Thai Rath)

Prachinburi locals make 3 demands over radiation fears

Locals living around the recycling plant in Prachinburi where a stolen cylinder of Cesium-137 is believed to have been melted down have raised white flags in a plea for government action.

Authorities have declined to name the facility where radiation was detected and insist there has been no contamination of the surrounding environment.

However, the location of the plant became obvious when officials from the Office of Atoms for Peace (OAP) cordoned off the KPP Steel Co. recycling facility in Moo 6, Tambon Haad Nang Kaew in Kabin Buri. Continued …

KResearch says global banking crisis will pressure Thai exports

Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch) maintains Thailand’s 2023 GDP growth projection at 3.7 %. However, its Thai export growth forecast has been downgraded to -1.2 % from the previous -0.5 %.

Meanwhile, tourism will see a brighter outlook, with a clear recovery of foreign tourist arrivals expected in 1Q23.

In KResearch’s view, the recent problems faced by some Western banks will have limited impact on Thailand. Continued …

America’s Globalstar will provide satellite services in Thailand

Low earth orbit satellite operator Globalstar of the U.S. has won approval from Thailand’s regulators to provide satellite services in the Kingdom in partnership with local satellite firm Thaicom, the company announced last week.

Aside from the low earth orbit (LEO) satellite services, Louisiana-based Globalstar will also be permitted to build and operate a ground tracking station at Thaicom’s Teleport Center in Pathum Thani province, north of Bangkok.

Thailand has had a presence in space since the early 1990s. At that time, the Kingdom started purchasing, deploying and operating satellites with private-sector companies such as Thaicom taking the lead. Continued … 

2023 technology trends for digital transformation in business

As 2023 gets into full swing, enterprise cloud solution providers are looking to expand their focus to business buyers, not just IT/development teams.

As Gartner notes in its Top Strategic Technology Trends for 2023 presentation, given by Gartner analysts at its 2022 IT symposia globally, “senior IT and business leaders need to prepare to optimize, scale, or pioneer:

  • To optimize resilience, operations or trust
  • To scale your vertical solutions, product delivery, or … everywhere Continued …

Thai SEA Games jerseys made with recycled plastic bottles unveiled

Thailand’s official SEA Games jersey maker Grand Sport has released the collection of kits that Thai athletes would wear when competing at the upcoming SEA Games 2023.

The company’s managing director, Thiti Pluckchaoom, said that the jerseys for the 2023 SEA Games were designed with a contemporary style, under the concept of “Beyond The Spirit, Beyond Sportswear”.

Thiti said the collar shirts in this set were made using recycled plastic bottles to mitigate waste and raise awareness about global warming. Continued …

Bangkok halts Bt30-billion Chao Phraya riverfront project

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt announced that he would stop the “Chao Phraya walkway riverfront” project proposed by the Prayut Chan-o-cha government. He added that the project was not worth it and did not meet the needs of the people.

After the Thai Administrative Court ruled on March 22, 2023, to stop the construction of the Chao Phraya walkway, adding that the panel of defendants should adjust four points, Bangkok Deputy Gov. Wisanu Subsompon said the Bangkok municipality, which is one of the defendants, will accept the ruling and will not appeal.

However, as this project is part of a government policy, the government policy must be taken into account if the project is to be continued or canceled. Continued …

SPCG expects solar panel revenue to reach Bt1 billion

Costly electricity bills are expected to cause more households and businesses to use renewable energy by installing rooftop solar panels, says SET-listed SPCG, a pioneer in solar farm development in Thailand.

The power tariff, which is used to calculate electricity bills for households, is likely to increase to 4.77 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit) between May and August, up from the previous record high of 4.72 baht per unit, according to the Energy Regulatory Commission.

Businesses will also pay 4.77 baht per unit, down from 5.33 baht per unit, applicable from January to April this year. Continued …

Building businesses on the legalization of marijuana in Chiang Mai

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has had a long history in Thailand. Traditionally, the plant was used by locals in their food and medicine.

But in 1935, using marijuana — whether as a drug or otherwise — was criminalized. And until last year, anyone using or possessing marijuana could face five years in prison, and a fine of up to 100,000 Thai baht, or $2,900.

In the late 2010s, the Thai government appeared to soften its stance toward marijuana. It was approved for medicinal use in 2019. Just two years later, those with a license could use and grow the plant. Continued …

Thailand sees 6M foreign tourist arrivals in Q1

The government expects there to be about 6 million foreign tourist arrivals in the first quarter of the year, as the vital tourism sector gathered momentum, an official said today.

The country is forecasting between 25 million to 30 million foreign tourists this year, with spending of 1.5 trillion baht, government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said in a statement. – Bangkok Post

TIME Magazine Lists Phuket and Isan Among World’s Greatest Places

Phuket and the Nnortheastern provinces of Thailand have been included on the TIME magazine’s list of “The World’s Greatest Places of 2023”.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the list, which showcases 50 extraordinary destinations to explore, describes Phuket as one of Thailand’s most visited places and is known for its famed beaches. Phuket has increased its family appeal with the grand opening of Carnival Magic, a culturally focused theme park last September. The island province is also drawing more visitors to its uncrowded countryside with an impressive landscape of modern luxury lodges.

The TIME list mentions Isan for the region’s diverse and delicious culinary options. It also mentions that those who venture to this off-the-beaten-path region of Thailand teeming with rice fields are rewarded with national parks, temple ruins, and Michelin-recommended restaurants. Last year marked the 60th anniversary of Thailand’s first national park, Khao Yai, which sits largely in Nakhon Ratchasima province and is home to elephants, gibbons, and Asian black bears. Continued …

Bangkok ranks #5 on Airbnb’s list of top trending global travel spots

Latest data from Airbnb reveals that as travel continues to recover post-pandemic, nights booked in Thailand on Airbnb more than doubled last year from 2020, with international travel leading the way and Bangkok emerging as a top destination of choice for global travelers on Airbnb.

The popular capital city emerged as the #1 trending destination globally for Airbnb guests in Q3 last year and #5 on Airbnb’s list of top trending global travel spots in 2023.

This comes as Thailand recently forecast that 25-30 million travelers will visit this year – a strong indication of tourism recovery in the country, and up from 11 million international visitors last year. Continued …

Tourist ‘damaged Thai tourism’ by reporting bungee mishap to foreign media

The Hong Kong tourist who went to the media in his homeland after a bungee cord broke in Pattaya has been accused of damaging Thai tourism.

The accident occurred on Feb. 24 but has only just come to light.

Yesterday, representatives from the Chonburi tourism office, civil engineers and the Pattaya tourist police finally went to investigate. Continued …

Adang Island in Satun Is Set to Be Developed as World-Class Tourism Destination

Ko Adang, or Adang Island, in the southern border province of Satun, is set to be developed as a world-class tourism destination, like Langkawi in Malaysia, according to the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC).

The SBPAC held a meeting recently to discuss ways to upgrade and develop tourism in Satun, which is famous for its pristine nature spreading over jungles, mountains, and beaches.

SBPAC Deputy Secretary-General Chanathan Saengphum stated that all relevant agencies would work together in pushing for the development of Adang Island into a major tourism destination in this part of the world within the next five years. Continued …

AOT Unveils Plan to Expand Don Mueang Airport Terminal for Tourism Boost

Following cabinet approval last year, Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) has unveiled its plans to expand Don Mueang International Airport’s low-cost terminal, aiming to increase passenger capacity and boost tourism income for the country.

According to AOT, a budget of 36.8 billion baht has been allocated for the project, which is set to begin this year and be completed by 2029.

The expansion, which includes the construction of 12 aircraft parking stands and 11 jet bridges, will increase the airport’s handling capacity from 30 million to 40 million passengers per year. Continued …

U-tapao expansion likely delayed

U-tapao airport expects a delay to the first phase of its expansion plans, as some conditions have not been approved by authorities, with the carrying capacity reduced to less than 12 million passengers in the initial stages, says U-Tapao International Aviation Co. (UTA).

Anawat Leelawatwatana, senior vice president for finance and accounting at Bangkok Airways and a representative for UTA, said the date for area delivery of construction was supposed to be January 2023, but three major criterion upon issuance of the notice to proceed letter have not been finalized by the government. Continued …

Thailand’s most beautiful beaches for the beach lover in you

View …

Trade Between China, Mekong Countries Hits $416.7B in 2022

Trade between China and countries along the Mekong River posted steady growth last year despite COVID-19 and the sluggish global economy. Thanks to deepened mutual trust and cooperation, China’s trade volume with Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam totaled 416.7 billion U.S. dollars in 2022, up 5% year on year. Continued …

Russian support for Myanmar junta ‘destabilizing’ Southeast Asia: US envoy

Russia’s backing for Myanmar’s military rulers is unacceptable and destabilizing, with its supply of weapons helping to fuel a conflict that has become a catastrophe for the country, a top U.S. official said on Thursday. Continued …

How Vietnam is trying to stop rice warming the planet

As a child, Dong Van Canh watched while the rice fields of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta were set alight to make way for the next crop, blackening the sky and flooding the air with potent greenhouse gases. Continued …

US state to require parental consent for social media

Utah on Thursday became the first U.S. state to require social media sites to get parental consent for accounts used by under-18s, placing the burden on platforms like Instagram and TikTok to verify the age of their users. 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

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-March 23

  • Hua Hin Marathon postponed to June 11/
  • Prachuap Khiri Run to be held July 16/
  • Siege in Phetchaburi: Police shoot man dead after he kills 3, injures four/
  • Massive Indian Scam Syndicate bilked 365 American retirees/
  • Study finds most Thai youth not developing job skills/
  • Thai industry group: Emphasize climate-linked areas/
  • Recovered Caesium-137 cannister ‘not a threat to local Thai produce’/
  • Van Gogh works to come alive at Bangkok gallery/
  • Tourism: Over 5.5 million tourists have already visited Thailand this year/Chinese tourists rush to board ‘fashion time machine’ in Chiang Mai/Thailand welcomes Really Cool Airlines/Thailand’s ‘Really Cool Airlines’ may not be a joke, but difficult to take seriously/Bangkok Airways expects profit for 2023/Safari park in Thailand responds to bungee cord incident/
  • Thailand Experience: A land of giants/Where to find the best food in Phuket/From ancient to modern: The cannabis tale of Thailand/
  • International: Federal Reserve raises interest rates amid banking turmoil/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Hua Hin Marathon postponed to June 11

The Hua Hin Marathon has been postponed to June 11, race organizers have announced.

The marathon, which is one of the region’s most eagerly anticipated races, has been postponed from its original date of May 14.

May 14 is now the date Thailand will hold the general election. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Run to be held July 16

One of the region’s most eye-catching running events will be held in Prachuap Khiri Khan in July, the provincial administration has announced.

The Tipco Prachuap Khiri Run 2023, which will take place on July 16, will take participants along the stunning Prachuap Bay and the Wing 5 military base.

Runners will have the opportunity to take in the beautiful surroundings, with the route boasting some breathtaking views along the bay and across the runway at the military base. Continued … 

Siege in Phetchaburi: Police shoot man dead after he kills 3, injures four

A gunman who killed three people execution-style ahead of his pending court case was shot dead by police after a 15-hour standoff in Phetchaburi province on Thursday morning.

Anuwat Waenthong, 29, launched the attack at 1.30pm in Soi 4 of Krungphet Villa housing estate in the Ton Mamuang neighbourhood, 170 kilometers southwest of Bangkok.

Police said the gunman fired multiple bullets in the area, killing three people, including a motorcycle delivery driver, and injuring four more before taking shelter in a house. Continued …

Massive Indian Scam Syndicate bilked 365 American retirees

Five Indian phone scammers and 15 Thai accomplices were arrested following a major scam bust yesterday across Thailand. The suspects swindled 365 American retirees out of over three billion baht, according to police.

The raids carried out by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), police commandos, and officials from the Anti-Money Laundering Office struck 36 premises in Chonburi, Rayong, Roi Et, and Surat Thani, and resulted in the arrest of over 20 phone scam suspects.

Police Gen. Torsak Sukwimol, deputy national police chief, told a press briefing that the suspects mainly targeted elderly American citizens and had tricked 365 people into transferring them three billion baht. Continued …

Study finds most Thai youth not developing job skills

The rising share of youth who are Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEET) in Thailand represents a concerning social and economic phenomenon.

While nearly 1.4 million (or 15 %) youth aged 15-24 years in Thailand are NEET, a new Unicef-led study released today finds most of them (68 %) lack the motivation to develop skills or work due to a perceived lack of opportunities.

The new study – In-depth Research on Youth Not in Employment, Education or Training in Thailand – is the first in-depth study that provides a comprehensive picture of youth NEET in Thailand. Continued …

Thai industry group: Emphasize climate-linked areas

Despite the country’s dependence on tourism to boost its revenue, Thailand needs to further drive its economy through electric vehicles (EVs) and bio-, circular and green (BCG) economic development amid a rapidly changing world, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The world is increasingly disrupted by high-level digital technology and is adopting more clean energy in an effort to combat climate change.

A new government must be aware of these factors and design policies that match the changing technological, environmental and economic conditions, said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the FTI. Continued … 

Recovered Caesium-137 cannister ‘not a threat to local Thai produce’

Thai officials say the recently recovered Caesium-137 canister is not a threat to local produce, despite it being smelted. The concerns over the effects of the tube’s radioactive properties were raised as contaminated furnace dust was discovered at a steel plant in Prachin Buri’s Kabin Buri district this week.

Out of fear, customers canceled purchase orders of fruit from the province, despite authorities insisting that no contamination had been detected within a 5-kilometer radius of the factory.

Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Chalermchai Sri-on said checks for radioactive substances in such products found that radiation levels did not exceed safety limits. Continued …

Van Gogh works to come alive at Bangkok gallery

Can’t afford a weekend getaway to the Musee D’Orsay? An upcoming exhibition will be a must see for Van Goghites — or at least fans of “Loving Vincent,” or that one episode of Doctor Who.

At the Van Gogh Alive display, patrons will be greeted by moving, otherworldly portrayals of Vincent Van Gogh’s works on the walls, floors, and ceilings, accompanied by a dynamic soundtrack. The exhibition is also interactive, allowing visitors to engage with the works.

Apart from the famed Starry Night, other highlights include Sunflower Room, which is designed to make visitors feel as though they’re standing in a field of Van Gogh’s most challenging subjects. Continued …

Over 5.5 million tourists have already visited Thailand this year

About 5.57 million foreign tourists visited Thailand from Jan. 1 to March 18, generating 215.05 billion baht in revenue, deputy government spokesperson Traisulee Taisaranakul said on Wednesday, citing data from the Tourism and Sports Ministry.

Although both the domestic and foreign tourism markets are improving, the influx of foreign visitors has caused congestion at many areas in airports, such as check-in counters and the Immigration Bureau’s passport checkpoints, Traisulee said.

The price of flight tickets has also risen sharply, she added. Continued …

Chinese tourists rush to board ‘fashion time machine’ in Chiang Mai

The surreal sight of Chinese tourists wandering around in Thai traditional outfits is becoming commonplace in Chiang Mai.

Visitors from China have returned after three years of Covid-19 with a thirst for memorable and “authentic” Thai experiences as they tour historical temples and other attractions in the northern province.

Surrounded by crowds of Thais in jeans and T-shirts, Chinese tourists stand out in finery that was fashionable several centuries ago in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand welcomes Really Cool Airlines

A new airline has come to town, in the form of Thailand-based Really Cool Airlines.

The new airline will announce aircraft types, destinations and its route network in the coming months, with operations expected to commence by the end of 2023. Details on the approaches and services will also be revealed soon.

Patee Sarasin, CEO of Really Cool Airlines, said: “We are thrilled to introduce Really Cool Airlines and look forward to providing travelers with an exceptional flying experience. Our team of experts has worked tirelessly to create a new standard for the aviation industry, and we’re excited to unveil in the coming months what we have in store.” Continued …

Thailand’s ‘Really Cool Airlines’ may not be a joke, but difficult to take seriously

Get ready to fly the “really cool” skies, maybe, after the former head of Nok Air announced that he is launching a new airline that hopefully flies better than its name.

Five years after he left Nok, Patee Sarasin’s announcement “Really Cool Airlines” was so chockablock with scam-adjacent, threadbare buzzwords such as gamification, blockchain, and NFTs that it might be mistaken as satire to anyone who has paid attention to the past two years.

Announced as the world’s first “GameFi airline” (customers will play blockchain games!), Patee said Really Cool would be managed by “crypto-native citizens from our Really Cool Air GameFi.” Continued … 

Bangkok Airways expects profit for 2023

Bangkok Airways expects its passenger rate to hit 70%-80% of the pre-pandemic level this year, roughly 4.4 million people from more than 40,000 flights, and will possibly post an annual profit for the first time since 2019.

Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, president of Bangkok Airways, said long-haul demand has grown better than expected since the final quarter of last year, which will help to hit the target of 15 billion baht in revenue for 2023.

Puttipong said European passengers currently accounted for 60% of the total, followed by Asia-Pacific and Thai passengers. Continued … 

Safari park in Thailand responds to bungee cord incident

Staff from Chang Thai Thappraya Safari Park in Pattaya, Chon Buri province, eastern Thailand, have commented on the broken bungee cord incident that nearly killed a tourist from Hong Kong last month.

The bungee jump operator, 41-year-old Natthaphon Yokcharoen, took reporters to see the scene of the incident, a platform about 30 meters high above a lake.

Nattaphon said that all bungee jumpers are required to sign a document before jumping and staff demonstrate how it’s done before tourists take the leap. Continued …

A land of giants

(Editor: This park allows the riding of elephants. Expat News encourages readers to avoid elephant rides, which are damaging to their spines.)

As our car wound through the Khotcha-anajak project, also known as the Elephant Kingdom, one of my friends gestured enthusiastically out the window and her eyes twinkled with delight like a child when she spotted elephants ambling about seeking food in a green meadow.

“Have you never seen an elephant before?” was a question I couldn’t help but ask her. She emphasized how unique this scene was compared to what was seen in a zoo. We appeared to be on a safari, exploring a woodland with a field of open grazing animals.

In response to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother’s commitment to conserve Thai elephants, the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand established the project in 2009 to repatriate pachyderms that once roamed large-city streets to the northeastern town of Surin. Continued …

Where to find the best food in Phuket

Sheltering from an impetuous morning shower in Phuket Town, I’m wishing I was a camel. Or a llama. Really, anything with a second (or third) stomach. Ignoring my own oft-repeated mantra when joining a street food tour – pace yourself – I’m already in danger of peaking too early at a Burmese breakfast restaurant.

Our guide for the morning is Pema, an effervescent Thai local who seems to know all the vendors at Phuket Town’s Central Market. It’s aunty this and cousin that as our group is steered past mini-mountains of fragrant curry paste and carefully stacked pyramids of tropical fruit.

At the nearby Mingalar tea shop, we’re soon slurping on cardamom-laced tea, feasting on lahpet thoke (tea leaf salad), and dimpled Burmese flatbreads are emerging from a simple wood-fired oven that’s been glowing since well before dawn. Continued …

From ancient to modern: The cannabis tale of Thailand

In June 2022, Thailand made history by becoming the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis nationwide. The decision has put the spotlight on the country’s relationship with the plant, and it’s a fascinating tale that stretches back centuries.

Let’s dive into the long and winding history between Thailand and marijuana – a journey full of ups and downs, twists and turns, and of course, a lot of weed.

Video 

It’s hard to imagine a time when cannabis wasn’t the subject of such a bad rap in the mainstream. But believe it or not, cannabis was completely legal in Thailand for centuries. Continued …

Federal Reserve raises interest rates amid banking turmoil

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday raised interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point but indicated it was on the verge of pausing further increases in borrowing costs amid recent turmoil in financial markets spurred by the collapse of two U.S. banks. 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, climate change, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai food, thailand, tourism

Monday’s News-March 20

  • Food Carnival at Market Village March 25-April 16/
  • Thailand’s surging PM2.5 dust pollution shows little sign of abating/
  • Miss Thailand 2023 is Chonnikarn Supittayaporn of Chiang Mai/
  • Thailand’s ‘phanaeng’ tops list of best curries in the world/
  • Thailand’s e-commerce sector enters the next phase/
  • Immigration announces latest arrests of foreign criminals in Thailand/
  • Thailand to dissolve Parliament today ahead of election/
  • Rain and hail storms hit Chiang Mai, causing widespread property damage/
  • ‘Golden year’ for Phuket property as condos and luxury villas sell out/
  • Teen pregnancy in Thailand decreasing, but the issue remains complicated/
  • Low reserves of Rh negative blood raise concerns for foreigners in Thailand/
  • Radioactive Cesium-137 found in smelting works – factories sealed off/
  • 2 die, 5 hospitalized after eating poisonous horseshoe crab in Trat/
  • Tourism: Chinese arrivals predicted to top 300,000 in April/Red cards issued in Phuket, foreigners deported/Swiss man on the run after underage sex ring shut down in police raid/7 people rescued after their vessel capsizes in Andaman Sea/Thai Tour Guides Unite to Address Issue of Illegal Foreign Guides/Foreign Tourist Drowns in Strong Waves at Pattaya beach/Treehouses, tents and rafts can now be used for hotels/
  • Thailand Experience: The perfect fusion of what Thailand has to offer/
  • International: Swiss banking giant UBS to buy troubled rival Credit Suisse/Global warming driving more extreme droughts and floods/China’s Xi heads to Russia in visit for ‘peace’/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Food Carnival at Market Village March 25-April 16

Thailand’s surging PM2.5 dust pollution shows little sign of abating

Worries about Covid-19 may be gone, but PM2.5 is back, plunging Thailand into yet another crisis.

As the ultra-fine dust accumulates, blanketing many provinces, businesses and households are increasingly complaining about the health and economic impact.

The northern city of Chiang Mai, a top tourism destination, this month earned the unwanted title of worst air quality on the IQAir global index, reported by a Swiss technology company that monitors air quality in major cities worldwide. Continued …

Miss Thailand 2023 is Chonnikarn Supittayaporn of Chiang Mai

Miss Chiang Mai, Chonnikarn Supittayaporn, was crowned Miss Thailand 2023 on Sunday, at the Central Chaengwattana in Nonthaburi, Bangkok. The 24-year-old model and pharmacy graduate of Chiang Mai University succeeded last year’s winner Manita Farmer and will now prepare to represent Thailand at the 71st Miss World (Miss World 2023) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Sakhon Nakhon’s Marisa Phonthirat was named the first runner-up, while Phatthalung’s Arabella Sitanan Gregory finished as the second runner-up. (pageantcircle.com)

Thailand’s ‘phanaeng’ tops list of best curries in the world

Thailand’s spicy “phanaeng curry” topped the latest TasteAtlas.com list of “100 Best Rated Stews in the World”, with 4.8 points out of 5.

Following it closely in the list published on Sunday were Japan’s karē, China’s Sichuan hot pot, Vietnam’s bò kho and India’s shahi paneer.

Apart from phanaeng, several other Thai dishes made it to the list, including green curry at 8th place, massaman at 9th, Thai curry 15th, yellow curry 32nd and red curry 34th. Continued …

Thailand’s e-commerce sector enters the next phase

Thailand’s e-commerce landscape is entering the next stage, where major e-marketplace players are introducing innovative features to woo customers instead of focusing on price wars, while social commerce is strengthening in a bid to capture buyers.

The growth of e-commerce will happen across diverse channels, ranging from social media to websites owned by product developers, said analysts.

Live-streaming as a method to sell products is gaining popularity because it encourages consumers to quickly make a purchasing decision, according to analysts. Continued …

Immigration announces latest arrests of foreign criminals in Thailand

Thailand’s immigration Bureau headed by Police Lt, Gen. Phakphoomphat Sajjaphan announced the latest arrests of foreigners who found safe haven in Thailand after committing multiple crimes abroad.

The roll-call on this occasion featured fraudsters, a drug dealer, a gun-toting gambler and a tax evader.

They were picked up on warrants and overstay in Phuket, Pattaya and in the Bangkok area where they were living without a care …. until immigration came calling. Continued …

Thailand to dissolve Parliament today ahead of election

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has submitted a decree to dissolve Thailand’s Parliament before the upcoming election, May 7 or May 14.

The dissolution will come into effect upon its publication in the Royal Gazette, which is expected today.

The decree requires approval from Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Continued …

Rain and hail storms hit Chiang Mai, causing widespread property damage

Several districts in Chiang Mai were hit by rain and hail storms on Saturday, causing widespread damage to houses, utility poles, trees and billboards. There were no fatalities, although one person was slightly injured.

According to reports, the summer rain and hail storms struck Mueang, Mae Rim, San Sai and Doi Saked districts. Hail covered several areas, turning the landscape white like snow.

Gov. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn has ordered the provincial public disaster prevention and mitigation office, district chiefs and local administrators to provide initial help to those affected and to survey the extent of the damage. Continued …

‘Golden year’ for Phuket property as condos and luxury villas sell out

Phuket’s property market has returned to pre-pandemic levels and all finished condo units and villas with pools have been sold, most of them to foreign nationals, according to the Phuket Real Estate Assn.

Phattanan Phisutvimol, its president, said the surge in sales of condominiums and luxury villas started after the Covid-19 pandemic receded last year.

Sales have surged to pre-pandemic levels and 823 real-estate projects, including hotels, were approved for construction last year, she said, adding: “This year will be the golden year for Phuket’s property market. The boom will continue.” Continued …

Teen pregnancy in Thailand decreasing, but the issue remains complicated

Maneerat got pregnant with her first child when she was only 17. As a result, she did not complete her education and was pushed into adulthood when she was not ready.

Her unplanned pregnancy has changed her life forever. Looking back, there was also mounting pressure that pushed her to this turning point.

“It was like when you’re squeezing something too hard, it trickles through your fingers. Can you imagine? I was just like that.” Continued …

Low reserves of Rh negative blood raise concerns for foreigners in Thailand

Low reserves of Rh negative blood are raising concerns for foreigners in Thailand.

While only 0.3% of the Thai population has Rh negative blood, around 15% of the UK and European population has the blood type. This shortage has resulted in concerning shortages of Rh negative blood in blood banks across Southeast Asia.

Visitors to the region who have had accidents or required surgery have found themselves in life-threatening situations because of the lack of available Rh negative blood supplies. In some cases, it has taken up to two weeks to find enough donors to supply the required amount of blood. Continued …

Radioactive Cesium-137 found in smelting works – factories sealed off

Missing radioactive material – Cesium-137 – has been found after checks at two smelting works in the Kabinburi industrial estate.

On Sunday, provincial Gov. Ranarojng Nakhonjinda and Permsuk Sajjaphiwat from the Office of Atoms for Peace were called in to examine a large amount of waste metal.

Hand-held Geiger counters found suspicious waste in a mountain of scrap metal that is brought in and processed at the factories. The factories were sealed off to protect the public. No further details were given about the origin of the waste. – Thai Rath

2 die, 5 hospitalized after eating poisonous horseshoe crab in Trat

Two people in the southeastern province of Trat have been confirmed dead, while five others were hospitalized after eating lethally poisonous mangrove horseshoe crabs.

Health officials in Trat repeated warnings this morning for people to be careful before consuming horseshoe crabs, which are a staple. The mangrove variety is poisonous, however, and is blamed for the deaths of two residents in the seaside province located next to the gulf.

There have been cases of people occasionally misidentifying mangrove horseshoe crabs, aka the round-tail horseshoe crab, which contains a toxin, for the Indo-pacific horseshoe crab, which has a tail covered by a sturdy carapace. The latter species is not poisonous and safe to eat. – Coconuts

Chinese arrivals predicted to top 300,000 in April

The Chinese government expects the number of Chinese tourist arrivals will rise to more than 300,000 in April, according to the Chinese ambassador to Thailand.

Han Zhiqiang, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Thailand, on Saturday paid a courtesy call to Phuket Gov. Narong Woonciew at the Provincial Hall.

After welcoming the ambassador, Narong gave an update on moves to set up sister cities with China, the Sino-Thai tourism outlook, and Thailand’s plans to chair the Specialized Expo 2028. Continued …

Red cards issued in Phuket, foreigners deported

Phuket’s new “red” and “yellow” card system has resulted in warnings and arrests for several foreigners. The system, launched earlier this month, has been implemented, without details, and is aimed at reducing crime and illegal activity committed by foreigners in Phuket.

The new system has been initiated in Phuket under the banner of the local immigration office, but has not, as yet, been introduced in other tourist zones around Thailand.

The system awards a yellow or red card warning for various offenses with no avenue for protest or appeal. Continued …

Swiss man on the run after underage sex ring shut down in police raid

The Royal Thai Police has, in recent years, prioritized the fight against underage prostitution linked with the human trafficking industry. On Saturday, Deputy National Police Chief Gen. Surachate Hakparn, or “Big Joke”, described it as a particularly egregious form of human trafficking.

However, there remains the blooming business of human traffickers importing young women into Thailand from poorer countries who are indentured, often for years, into a massive prostitution and wider sex industry with links across the kingdom’s borders.

A Swiss man was being tracked and his known associates in Phuket placed under surveillance this weekend after Thai police smashed an underage prostitution network with tentacles and customers throughout the island. A Swiss national is reportedly on the run through neighboring countries to Thailand after police smashed his sex trafficking ring specializing in prostituting young girls on the holiday island of Phuket. Continued …

7 people rescued after their vessel capsizes in Andaman Sea

Three tourists and four crew members from a speed boat were safely rescued after their vessel capsized near Ma Island in the Andaman Sea.

Responding to a distress call from the Andaman Adventure Co., operator of the speed boat service, after its vessel took on water as it was heading for Phuket from Lanta Island, marine police and other officials from the Hat Nopparat Thara National Park rushed to the rescue.

The rescue team managed to pluck all the seven crew members and passengers from the sea and took them to hospital on Phi Phi Island for first-aid treatment. Continued …

Thai Tour Guides Unite to Address Issue of Illegal Foreign Guides

A group of Chinese-speaking tour guides convened on Saturday to discuss the trouble caused by illegal guides who are stealing their jobs. The group complained they are being overlooked by the government, as their complaints, so far, have not been heard.

The complainers revealed at a meeting that some foreign guides are working illegally in Thailand and are stealing their jobs. These guides do not have a guide license, which is required by Thai laws, to operate as a guide. A guide is a protected occupation in Thailand that foreigners cannot work in.

They said they met on Saturday to petition the government to take action against the illegal guides, citing although their multiple complaints in the past about this issue have not been heard, they still want justice to be served. Continued …

Foreign Tourist Drowns in Strong Waves at Pattaya beach

Pattaya authorities have warned people of strong waves and winds after a foreign tourist drowned in the sea yesterday.

Sawang Boriboon rescuers rushed to Pattaya Beach near the Nipa Lodge intersection around 2pm after getting a report about a drowning tourist. When they arrived, they found multiple onlookers circling an unidentified foreigner who was lying unconscious on the beach.

The tourist of unknown nationality was about 55-65 years old. The rescuers tried to revive him by providing him with life-saving CPR but failed. There were no signs of a wallet or identification documents nearby. Continued …

Treehouses, tents and rafts can now be used for hotels

Owners of bungalows, container houses, treehouses, tents and houses on rafts can now turn them into hotels, as the Cabinet has approved an ministerial draft regulation related to buildings suitable for the hotel business, deputy government spokesperson Tipanan Sirichana said on Sunday.

The Cabinet approved the Interior Ministry’s draft regulation on Tuesday, she said, explaining that the goal is to “promote competition in the tourism industry”.

The draft ministerial regulation states that bungalows, container houses, houses on rafts, tree houses and tents are specialty buildings that people can live in or use. Continued …

The perfect fusion of what Thailand has to offer

If you’re anything like me, and your ultimate holiday is the perfect mix of discovering new cuisine, trying a variety of sports activities, and finding true relaxation, Thailand may very well be your perfect next travel destination. Whether you’re looking to visit vibrant Bangkok, or gorgeous and peaceful Khao Lak, both locations have it all on offer.

At The Athenee in Bangkok, located on the grounds of former royal residence Kandhavas Palace, the palace of Princess Malaya Alongkorn, food lovers can explore eight different restaurants, serving anything from local traditional to modern international cuisine.

At the Kintsugi Bangkok, by Japanese-American celebrity chef Jeff Ramsey, highlights include a cold walnut soba noodle dish and wonderfully fresh high-quality sashimi. Try to secure a seat at the counter, as seeing the dishes prepared and plated up close is quite the theater. Continued …

Swiss banking giant UBS to buy troubled rival Credit Suisse

Banking giant UBS is buying its smaller rival Credit Suisse for $3.2 billion in an effort to avoid further market-shaking turmoil in global banking, Swiss President Alain Berset announced on Sunday night. Continued …

Global warming driving more extreme droughts and floods

Twenty years of NASA’s global satellite data show just how much the extent, duration and severity of extreme droughts and floods have risen alongside warming global temperatures, a new study reveals. Continued …

China’s Xi heads to Russia in visit for ‘peace’

Chinese President Xi Jinping begins a state visit to Russia today, a trip Beijing has touted as a “visit for peace” as it seeks to play mediator in Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. 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