Category Archives: climate change

climate change, covid, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-April 22

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  • Hua Hin Airport in political limbo until after the Thai election/
  • International flights expected at Hua Hin Airport later this year/
  • From Iron Chef to S.Ken’s Bistro: Chef Ken’s culinary journey to Hua Hin/
  • Exploring the cost of living for retirees in Thailand/
  • Hot weather blamed for increased power consumption and charges/
  • Production cost steady amid higher power bills/
  • Every breath a struggle in country’s toxic air/
  • Thailand issues ‘extreme heat’ alert for Bangkok, 3 other provinces/
  • High heat, drought to take toll on Thailand/
  • Thailand Reports World’s First Death From New Covid Variant Arcturus/
  • Nissan Thailand strengthens green culture/
  • Thai digital business estimated to reach Bt895 billion this year/
  • US Carrier Strike Group to Visit Thailand April 24-29/
  • Tourism: Songkran flights up 59% YoY/Chinese arrivals weak this year/Concern for Koh Kradan as tourists flock to bask on ‘world’s best beach’/Resort Owner Shocked As Power Bill Soars Over 700,000 Baht/
  • Thailand Experience: 9 less-touristy places to visit in Thailand, including Hua Hin/
  • International: Today is Earth Day/Inflationary pressure easing in Asia, boosting sales of consumer technology/’We have already lost’ in 2 key climate change signals/WWII wreck on which nearly 1,000 Australians died found/World’s ‘oldest’ tree able to reveal planet’s secrets/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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A tale of Hua Hin Airport from two media – one straightforward and one promotional.

Hua Hin Airport in political limbo until after the Thai election

The long struggle for Hua Hin Airport to get permission for international airlines to start flying to the beach resort of Hua Hin is not going to happen until later this year, says the airport operator.

This news came during a speech by John LaRoche, CEO of Phoenix Aviation, the operator of Hua Hin Airport. Continued …

International flights expected at Hua Hin Airport later this year

Passengers wishing to fly internationally from Hua Hin Airport might not have to wait too much longer.

On Friday, attendees at the meeting of the Royal Coast Riviera Club heard how international flights are expected to be operating to and from Hua Hin Airport in the near future. Continued …

From Iron Chef to S.Ken’s Bistro: Chef Ken’s culinary journey to Hua Hin

Kantapat Agechaosuan is much better known to the Western expat community of Hua Hin as Chef Ken from S.Ken’s Bistro in Khao Tao. Although I have eaten at the bistro on numerous occasions, I admit I was perplexed at the “S” in front of the name, despite having been personally introduced to Khun Ken in 2019.

Knowing that “Khun” is often abbreviated to a simple “K” in writing, I was wondering if, with Chef Ken’s European culinary history, the “S” might be an abbreviation of Signor. But I was wrong, something I am not fond of being. Continued …

Exploring the cost of living for retirees in Thailand

The cost of living for retirees in Thailand has become an increasingly popular topic of discussion, as many individuals from around the world are considering spending their golden years in this beautiful and culturally rich country.

Thailand offers a welcoming environment for those looking to enjoy a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. However, understanding the financial aspects of retiring in this Southeast Asian paradise is crucial for those who wish to make the most of their retirement savings. In this article, we will explore the various factors that contribute to the cost of living for retirees based on locations in Thailand, helping you to make an informed decision about your retirement plans. Continued …

Hot weather blamed for increased power consumption and charges

The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) is blaming the increase in electricity bills for many households in Bangkok on the hot weather, requiring greater use of air conditioners.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri explained that for every rise of 1oC in external temperature, an air conditioner in a house or office will consume 3% more energy to maintain the cooler temperature inside the building. Continued …

Production cost steady amid higher power bills

Prices of fresh food remain stable and electricity bills have yet to impact manufacturers’ production costs, according to the Internal Trade Department.

Chakra Yodmani, the department’s deputy director-general, said on Friday the department has been monitoring higher electricity prices, as the increase had some analysts concerned about whether this would affect production costs. Continued …

Every breath a struggle in country’s toxic air

An elderly patient hooked up to a tangle of tubes lies struggling for breath in a Bangkok hospital as Thailand battles a “drastic increase” in respiratory problems caused by a spike in air pollution.

His wife holds his hand and strokes his face, with a nurse in blue scrubs listening to his chest through a stethoscope. Every single breath is an exertion. Continued …

Thailand issues ‘extreme heat’ alert for Bangkok, 3 other provinces

Thailand issued an “extreme heat” warning on Friday as temperatures rose again after hitting 45 degrees Centigrade (113F) for the first time in history last weekend.

The Meteorology Department warned the heat index, or “felt temperature” will reach a hazardous level in Bangkok and three other provinces on Friday. Continued …

High heat, drought to take toll on Thailand

Summer is expected to end by the middle of next month, while the impact of El Niño, including drought, is predicted to take its toll on Thailand by around the middle of June, the Meteorological Department said on Friday.

Although the maximum temperature had previously been forecast to peak at 43C this summer, the highest temperatures are now expected to continue at around 40C for the rest of the summer, said Somkhwan Tanchan, director of the Meteorological Observations Division. Continued …

Thailand Reports World’s First Death From New Covid Variant Arcturus

Covid-19’s new variant, Arcturus, has triggered alarm around the world as it claimed its first victim, Thailand’s health officials have announced.

According to The Independent, the first death from the Arcturus strain, thought to be around 1.2 times more infectious than the last major subvariant, was recorded in Thailand yesterday, amid a surge in cases across the globe. Continued …

Nissan Thailand strengthens green culture

On Earth Day 2023, Nissan Thailand strengthens the importance of climate change and environmental awareness by underlining how Nissan Thailand can contribute toward carbon neutral society.

Nissan Thailand, as a regional production hub in ASEAN, believes in the automotive industry’s power to make a difference through green innovation and solid action to reduce impacts on the environment. In further driving innovations that enhance people’s quality of life while promoting sustainable development, Nissan has not only focused on electric and electrified vehicle development, such as its proprietary e-POWER electrified technology but has also seriously promoted awareness of environmental conservation among its employees and all stakeholders. Continued …

Thai digital business estimated to reach Bt895 billion this year

Thailand’s digital business still has great potential for growth, with the value of goods and services purchased via digital platforms (business-to-consumer) estimated to total 895 billion baht this year, up 17.9% year-on-year, according to a recent study.

Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said there is still plenty of room for growth for local digital business if the government has clear policies to support and promote the sector. Continued …

US Carrier Strike Group to Visit Thailand April 24-29

The U.S. Navy Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (CSG-11) will make a scheduled visit to Thailand April 24-29. U.S. Navy port visits are an opportunity to strengthen the U.S.-Thai security partnership and advance people-to-people ties.

During the visit, the Strike Group flagship USS Nimitz (CVN 68) will host a reception to celebrate the 190th anniversary of U.S.-Thai diplomatic relations. The visit also provides an opportunity for U.S. sailors to explore the local culture, and participate in professional engagements and community relations projects. Continued …

Songkran flights up 59% YoY

Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) said yesterday there were 13,569 flights over the Songkran holiday, up 59% year-on-year.

Aerothai President Nopasit Chakpitak said there were 1,938 flights per day on average from April 11-17, 28% lower than during the same period in 2019 pre-Covid. Continued …

Chinese arrivals weak this year

The number of Chinese visitors might not reach the government’s target of 5 million this year, as arrivals in the first four months were lower than expected.

Tourists claimed visa applications were inconvenient, according to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA). Continued …

Concern for Koh Kradan as tourists flock to bask on ‘world’s best beach’

Concern is rising for the environment of Koh Kradan after it was ranked as the world’s best beach, triggering a huge influx of tourists.

Arrivals on the island off Trang province have jumped sixfold, from 300 to 2,000 per day, after the UK’s World Beach Guide ranked it top for 2023. Continued …

Resort Owner Shocked As Power Bill Soars Over 700,000 Baht

The owner of a resort in Rayong has complained online about the monthly electricity bill having climbed over 700,000 baht from less than 500,000 baht.

In the video, Amornphan Villa Resort owner said that in the 40 years of operation the monthly power bill had never exceeded 500,000 baht but this month it skyrocketed to 711,470.60 baht despite electricity and air-conditioner usage being the same as before. Continued …

9 less-touristy places to visit in Thailand, including Hua Hin

We all know that Bangkok is a go-to destination among travelers for weekend getaways and shopping sprees. Similarly, Phuket is popular for those seeking beach holidays. However, these two tourist hot spots can get a little crowded during peak season.

If you still want to travel to Thailand with your family during the upcoming June holidays but don’t feel like squeezing with the crowds, we’ve curated a list of lesser-known places to visit in Thailand for holidays away from BKK. Continued …

Today is Earth Day

Celebrating with the theme “Invest In Our Planet”, Earth Day on April 22, is upon us once again for the 53rd anniversary to remind us of the importance of preserving the planet we call home. Continued …

Inflationary pressure easing in Asia, boosting sales of consumer technology

2023 will be marked by stability, with revenue growth driven by value-hungry consumers, according to market research firm GFK. Continued … https://www.thaipbsworld.com/inflationary-pressure-easing-in-asia-boosting-sales-of-consumer-technology/

‘We have already lost’ in 2 key climate change signals

2022 was another year of disastrous and deadly weather and climate extremes around the world, fueled in part by human-caused climate change, the United Nations weather agency said Friday. Continued …

WWII wreck on which nearly 1,000 Australians died found

Deep-sea explorers said they have located the wreck of a World War II Japanese transport ship, the SS Montevideo Maru, which was torpedoed off the Philippines in 1942, killing nearly 1,000 Australian prisoners of war onboard. Continued … 

World’s ‘oldest’ tree able to reveal planet’s secrets

In a forest in southern Chile, a giant tree has survived for thousands of years and is in the process of being recognized as the oldest in the world. Known as the “Great Grandfather,” the trunk of this tree measures four meters (13 feet) in diameter and 28 meters tall. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing 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, climate change, covid, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s News-April 19

  • Hin Lek Fai road closed April 19-21/
  • Endangered bright orange langur monkey rescued in PKK/
  • Hua Hin through the eyes of an English poet/
  • Air quality index (AQI) and PM2.5 air pollution map/
  • Chiang Mai, Bangkok choking near top of world air pollution rankings/
  • Why is the air quality so bad in Thailand?/
  • Prachuap closes Songkran with 47 accidents, 49 injuries and 3 deaths/
  • Songkran road tally: 264 deaths, 2,208 injuries/
  • PM grilled on power bills/
  • 10 things to know about Thailand’s latest Covid-19 wave/
  • Castaway farang rescued from Thailand’s waters/
  • 241st Bangkok Anniversary Celebration To Be Held in 21 Locations/
  • Thai Northeast braces for boom as China-Laos passenger railway opens/
  • Elephant herd invades golf course in Nakhon Nayok but returns to jungle/
  • True X targets 1M adopters of new mobile app/
  • Myanmar-Thailand clandestine business links under scrutiny/
  • True X targets 1M adopters of new mobile app/
  • Tourism: Sounding the alarm on zero-dollar tours/Operators seek clarity on Bt300 tourism fee/Tourism, agriculture beef up real estate demand in Northeast/US visa fees to rise from May 30/
  • Thailand Experience: Thailand beyond the beaches: Uncovering hidden gems in the land of smiles/Video: Why we love Chiang Mai/
  • International: Sprawling heat wave envelops large swath of Asia/Profit versus Sustainability: Are they mutually exclusive?/The Wealthiest Cities in the World in 2023/Fox News to pay $787.5M settlement in defamation trial/G7 ministers issue urgent warning of ‘severe costs’ for supporting Russia/China’s economy reaches new highs after zero-Covid restrictions/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hin Lek Fai road closed April 19-21

Between today and Friday, the road leading up to Hin Lek Fai will be closed from 8:30am to 5.30pm due to by the Provincial Electricity Authority.

Endangered bright orange langur monkey rescued in PKK

A baby bright orange langur monkey is now safe at a Thai wildlife rescue center after being found abandoned by his family in the wild in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Video ...

Hua Hin through the eyes of an English poet

Linda Lines ran a financial management company, ‘The Lines Partnership’, in the city of London for 22 years. She then sold her business and started to follow her passion for writing. Hua Hin is the place to which she has escaped the English winter and to write for almost 20 years.

“Men in My Kitchen” is the title of her first book. She revealed that this title came about from a friend flicking through her iPad saying, “Linda, there are a lot of men in your kitchen!” Continued …

Air quality index (AQI) and PM2.5 air pollution map

Now you can check the air pollution readings for the Hua Hin area every day with this link, which will appear daily near the bottom of this newsletter. Click here for map …

Chiang Mai, Bangkok choking near top of world air pollution rankings

Chiang Mai and Bangkok ranked as the second and fourth most-polluted cities in the world, respectively, on Tuesday, according to air-quality monitoring website IQAir.

Chiang Mai has regularly topped the rankings over the past few weeks, though Chiang Rai, which is not included in the list, has registered even higher scores on the IQAir scale. Continued …

Why is the air quality so bad in Thailand?

If you have ever visited Thailand, especially during the dry season from January to April, you may have noticed a thick haze of smog covering the cities and countryside.

This is not only an unpleasant sight, but also a serious health hazard for millions of people who live and breathe in this polluted air. Continued …

Prachuap closes Songkran with 47 accidents, 49 injuries and 3 deaths

Officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan have announced the number of accidents and fatalities on the province’s roads during the Songkran holidays.

Officials said they recorded 47 accidents, 49 injuries and 3 deaths during the seven-day road-safety campaign during Songkran, between April 11-17. Continued …

Songkran road tally: 264 deaths, 2,208 injuries

A total of 2,203 road accidents, with 2,208 injuries and 264 deaths, were reported by the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) for the Seven Days of Danger road safety campaign during Songkran (April 11-17).

On April 17, there were 183 accidents with 202 injuries and 16 deaths. Most were caused by excessive speeding (45%). Continued … 

PM grilled on power bills

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Tuesday said the government is stepping up efforts to find new sources of alternative energy following complaints about electricity bills going up during the summer months.

He was responding to criticism on social media and calls for the government to do more to cut people’s energy costs. Continued …

10 things to know about Thailand’s latest Covid-19 wave

Leading virologist Dr. Yong Poovorawan warned on Tuesday that a new wave of Covid-19 has emerged after the Songkran festival. Yong, who heads the Center of Excellence at Chulalongkorn University, stressed the need to curb a resurgence of Covid, adding that it may come in the form of a new and more elusive variant.

He said the new wave is expected to accelerate from mid-May before peaking in June and then declining in September, in line with seasonal patterns of respiratory diseases. Continued …

Castaway farang rescued from Thailand’s waters

In a TikTok clip that looks like a sequel to the movie Castaway, a group of Thai tourists on a fishing trip found a foreigner floating on a makeshift wooden raft in the middle of the sea off the coast of Koh Kood in Trat province, eastern Thailand, yesterday.

The woman who filmed the clip chartered a boat to go out fishing for squid when she and her friends spotted a wooden raft floating in the middle of the sea. As she got closer, she noticed luggage on the raft, and then she spotted a man. The TikToker wrote a message, “Where are you going to float?” Continued …

241st Bangkok Anniversary Celebration To Be Held in 21 Locations

As this year marks the 241st anniversary of Rattanakosin, or Bangkok, the government is preparing a celebratory event that will take place at the end of this month. Meanwhile, the prime minister is encouraging Thais to take pride in their national heritage and contribute to preserving and promoting cultural values.

Minister of Culture Itthiphol Kunplome and culture ministry officials engaged with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha before yesterday’s Cabinet meeting to publicize the upcoming event celebrating the 241st anniversary of Rattanakosin. Continued …

Thai Northeast braces for boom as China-Laos passenger railway opens

Nong Khai and neighbouring northeastern provinces are set to benefit after the Laos-China high-speed railway launched cross-border passenger services just in time for Songkran.

Passengers boarded the first train from China’s Kunming in Yunnan province to the Lao capital of Vientiane, just over the border from Nong Khai, on April 13 – the first day of Songkran. Continued …

Elephant herd invades golf course in Nakhon Nayok but returns to jungle

A herd of 45 wild elephants led by one called Sarika invaded the grounds of a golf course. It happened yesterday at the Royal Hills Golf Resort and Spa in the Nakhon Nayok area of central Thailand.

Video

Sarika and his harem didn’t create any trouble, however. After a wander around in which they didn’t even eat anything, elephant pushers managed to persuade the pachyderms to return to the jungle. Continued …

Myanmar-Thailand clandestine business links under scrutiny

The outrage caused by Myanmar’s bloody dictator Gen. Min Aung Hlaing’s inclusion this week in Time magazine’s list of 100 influential people just days after the massacre of 170 civilians, including 38 children, by Burmese jet bombers and military helicopters has spurred calls from human rights and democracy activists for greater scrutiny of how the junta regime is managing to evade sanctions, as well as funding and equipping its faltering military campaign to subdue its own people.

One focus of such inquiries is known to be its links with Thailand, where the government continues to offer muted but tacit support for the discredited junta. It comes amid louder and louder calls from within the ASEAN community for governments to get tough and ‘take the gloves off’ against the renegade Burmese military regime. Continued …

True X targets 1M adopters of new mobile app

True Corp. has rolled out True X, a new all-in-one mobile application meant to serve consumers’ daily lifestyle habits.

The app contains six core solutions: smart home, smart health, smart learning, smart energy, smart shopping and smart entertainment. Continued …

Sounding the alarm on zero-dollar tours

As a popular tourism destination, Thailand expects to welcome at least 25 million foreigners this year, with roughly 5 million from China, representing 50% of the Chinese visitor total in 2019.

In the early stages of China’s reopening this year, Beijing listed Thailand as one of the first 20 countries where Chinese tour groups would be able to visit. Continued …

Operators seek clarity on Bt300 tourism fee

Tourism operators are calling for clearer measures regarding the 300-baht tourism fee after the tourism and sports minister said levy collection will be delayed from June to September because of issues with its implementation.

Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said fee collection from foreign arrivals by air must be postponed because the airlines could not adopt a selective approach between foreign tourists, Thais and expatriates. Continued …

Tourism, agriculture beef up real estate demand in Northeast

The MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions), tourism and agricultural sectors are expected to continue driving housing demand in major provinces in the Northeast despite the rate of inflation, with the help of China’s reopening earlier this year.

Wuttichai Chatchaiphonrat, president of the Khon Kaen Real Estate Assn., said the residential market in Khon Kaen would maintain a positive trend this year despite several negative factors. Continued … 

US visa fees to rise from May 30

From May 30, the application and processing fees for visitor and other non-immigrant visas to the United States will rise to US$185 from $160. This fee applies to tourists and business travelers, as well as students.

The price for petition-based visas (H, L, O, P, Q and R) will rise to $205 from $190, while the fee for treaty traders, and treaty applicants in specialty occupations (E category) will rise to $315 from $205. Continued …

Thailand beyond the beaches: Uncovering hidden gems in the land of smiles

One cannot deny that Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, but there’s actually so much more to the country than being synonymous with the beaches of Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui.

Rather than jostling with other tourists for a serene stretch of the beach to yourself, consider making a visit to these parts of Thailand on our list instead and contributing to the local economy there. Continued …

Video: Why we love Chiang Mai

The food, the culture, the natural setting – Chiang Mai in northern Thailand has many jewels in its crown. We learn from the people who live there why they love the city. Video …

Sprawling heat wave envelops large swath of Asia

An intense and large-scale heat wave has enveloped large parts of Asia during the past two weeks, breaking longstanding records. From India to southern China to Thailand, stifling heat has set in unusually early this year. Continued …

Profit versus Sustainability: Are they mutually exclusive?

The world’s population is predicted to grow to more than 9 billion by 2050 and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that we will need to produce 60% more food to feed everyone, a huge increase that will undoubtedly take its toll on the planet. Continued …

The Wealthiest Cities in the World in 2023

When it comes to the number of resident millionaires, cities in the USA and China dominate the World’s Top 10 Wealthiest Cities, while only one European city, namely London, makes it onto the 2023 list published today by international investment migration firm Henley & Partners, in partnership with global wealth intelligence firm New World Wealth. Continued …

Fox News to pay $787.5M settlement in defamation trial

Fox News has agreed to settle the $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit filed against the network over its broadcast of lies aimed at undercutting public confidence in the outcome of the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Continued …

G7 ministers issue urgent warning of ‘severe costs’ for supporting Russia

In a recent meeting in Karuizawa, Japan, G7 foreign ministers warned of “severe costs” for those aiding Russia in its invasion of Ukraine. The discussions primarily focused on China, with a united front addressing its increasing military and economic power. Continued …

China’s economy reaches new highs after zero-Covid restrictions

Official data revealed that China’s economy grew by 4.5% year-on-year in the first quarter, recovering after the conclusion of zero-Covid restrictions in late 2021. Continued …

Air quality index map

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing 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, 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

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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

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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, 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

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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, climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-March 21

  • Hua Hin Bikini Run this Saturday/
  • Bully on the Beach at Bluport Saturday/
  • Hua Hin Boat Show at Racer Marina March 24-26/
  • Fire problems in Hin Lek Fai area/
  • Latest video of the Hua Hin railway construction/
  • Thailand’s top classical guitarists hit high note in Hua Hin/
  • Scientists combing Prachinburi for radioactivity after stolen cesium melted in furnace/
  • Hua Lamphong lights up to celebrate 126th birthday of railway in Thailand/
  • Thailand to build 7 new airports/
  • New power plan will support renewables/
  • Dane supports abandoned children in Khon Kaen/
  • Man finds 23kg python in his toilet/
  • Bees attack temple over loud music/
  • Police raids bust 319 drug rings in South/
  • Thai media continue to attack marijuana use, blaming it for violence/addiction/
  • Tourism: Will the 45-day visa waiver continue after March 31?/Why Is It (Still) Difficult for Airlines To Add New Flights at Suvarnabhumi Airport?/China’s Spring Airlines sees recovery in flights/
  • International: Gold skyrockets as banks still wobble/’Dear friends’ Xi and Putin meet in Moscow as Ukraine war rages/EU agrees 2-billion-euro ammunition plan for Ukraine/French government narrowly survives no-confidence vote/DHL forecasts growth in international trade to stall/World on ‘thin ice’ as UN climate report gives stark warning/US prepares for unprecedented likely arrest of ex-president/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin Bikini Run this Saturday

Bully on the Beach at Bluport Saturday

Hua Hin Boat Show at Racer Marina March 24-26

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

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

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

For more information; tel: 032 632 206.

Fire problems in Hin Lek Fai area

Officials from multiple agencies launched a joint operation on Monday to extinguish forest fires burning on Hin Lek Fai in Hua Hin.

Officials said the fires had been burning for three consecutive days and had spread to other hills, threatening nearby villages and houses.

Polkrit Phuangvalaisin, Hua Hin district chief, along with Nopporn Wutthikul, the mayor of Hua Hin City, led a group of officers from the Hua Hin Border Patrol Police Station 3, village chiefs, and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation to urgently bring equipment to extinguish the forest fires. Continued …

 

Latest video of the Hua Hin railway construction

Mike’s Tropical Tech https://www.youtube.com/@MikesTropicalTech YouTube channel has released the latest drone video in its series that documents the construction progress of the new dual track train line in Hua Hin.

The video provides a unique perspective of the construction site and offers an insight into the progress being made on this infrastructure project.

Video 

The dual-track train line is set to revolutionize the transportation system in Hua Hin and will significantly reduce journey time between Hua Hin, southern Thailand and Bangkok. Continued …

Thailand’s top classical guitarists hit high note in Hua Hin

Some 80 young musicians from across Thailand gathered at Hua Hin’s Bluport shopping mall to participate in a two-day classical guitar competition that kicked off on Friday.

The “Bluport Guitar Festival and Competition 2023” was organized in collaboration with the Legend Arena and Hua Hin guitar club. The contest was split into three categories – under 12, under 18, and all ages. Winners in each category won a scholarship and a trophy.

The event also included a guitar-making workshop. Continued …

Scientists combing Prachinburi for radioactivity after stolen cesium melted in furnace

Science Ministry officials are combing Prachinburi for signs of radioactivity after a stolen cylinder of cesium-137 was melted in the furnace of a recycling plant in the province’s Kabin Buri district.

Anek Laothamatas, minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, said medical colleges were also checking local residents for signs of health impacts from radiation.

The ministry has set up an emergency center in the province and would employ the highest safety protocol to deal with the situation, he added. Continued …

Hua Lamphong lights up to celebrate 126th birthday of railway in Thailand

A spectacular light show is transforming Bangkok’s historic Hua Lamphong Station to celebrate the 126th birthday of the railway in Thailand.

The week-long light show kicked off on Saturday as part of an event called “Unfolding Bangkok”, initiated by the Creative Economy Agency to promote tourism at attractions across the capital until September.

Hua Lamphong Station is being splashed with color to celebrate its 106-year history as the national rail hub, which ended in January when 52 long-distance trains were moved to the new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bang Sue district. Continued …

Thailand to build 7 new airports

The Department of Airports (DOA) plans to spend 50 billion baht on the development of seven new regional airports in Thailand, in Nakhon Pathom, Bueng Khan, Mukdahan, Kalasin, Phayao, Phatthalung and Satun provinces.

The department wants to boost connectivity and provide more travel options for Thais and foreign tourists.

New airports around Thailand’s lesser-known locations have been in the pipeline for years but faced delays due to the pandemic. Now, the department is making good progress. Continued …

New power plan will support renewables

Energy authorities expect to launch a new national power development plan (PDP) in an effort to better promote and support greater use of renewable energy.

The new PDP is meant to span 2023 to 2037, replacing the current one that took effect in 2018 and went through many revisions to align with changes in energy policy.

Efforts to introduce the new PDP were earlier delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic, a surge in global energy prices and Thailand’s new commitment to cutting carbon dioxide emissions. Continued …

Dane supports abandoned children in Khon Kaen

Six years has it been since Danish Steen Pausbæk and his family first got involved with the Baan Luuk Rak Children Home in Khon Kaen.

The home for abandoned children was founded in 1997 by Suriya Somjai and his wife, who died of breast cancer eight years ago.

Her sudden death left her husband and their now 24-year-old daughter alone to provide for the 46 children that resides at the orphanage, the youngest being only seven months, while the oldest is 18 years old. Continued …

Man finds 23kg python in his toilet

We’ve all experienced the feeling of dread when you flush a toilet and the water doesn’t go down, and it’s even worse when something comes up instead. But it’s much, much worse when what comes up in the toilet is the head of a giant python.

Snakes are common enough in Thailand that it’s not too unexpected to spot one in nature or even in a home garden. But the shock is definitely much bigger when a giant python crawls out of your toilet, as a homeowner in Thailand recently discovered. Continued …

Bees attack temple over loud music

Most people get annoyed when their neighbors blast loud music, but have you ever become so angry that you wanted to stab them with your butt? No? Then you mustn’t be a bee!

A swarm of bees did just that at a temple in the Nakhon Ratchasima province.

A temple in Phimai District was holding an ordination ceremony on Friday with traditional music playing just a tad too loud. The noise caused a frenzy in a hive in front of the temple and a swarm of agitated bees attacked the crowd, resulting in dozens of stings and several injuries. Continued …

Police raids bust 319 drug rings in South

Police conducted drug and firearm raids in over 600 locations in Thailand’s southern provinces on Monday, arresting more than 200 suspects and confiscating property worth 17.4 million baht.

Police Lt. Gen. Sompong Chingduang, the assistant police chief and deputy director of the narcotics prevention and suppression center, held a press briefing at Hat Yai Police Station in Songkhla to reveal the raid’s results.

Police raided 609 locations targeting 319 drug rings in Songkhla, Trang, Satun, Phatthalung, Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat. Continued … 

Thai media continue to attack marijuana use, blaming it for violence/addiction

Several Thai media outlets continued their attack on the use of marijuana in the kingdom. They have claimed it is responsible for acts of violence after users go berserk when they can’t get a “fix”.

They claim that weed is addictive.

There are shades of the so called “Reefer Madness” that references a film that led to decades of disinformation about the drug. Continued …

Will the 45-day visa waiver continue after March 31?

Last October, the Thai cabinet decided to increase the length of the visa waiver for tourists from 64 countries from 30 days. The extension was going to last until March 31, 2023.

Here we are, 10 days out, and there’s been nothing, not even a whisper, of an announcement to keep the 45-day waiver continuing beyond the end of March.

While the Tourism and Sports minister, as well as the TAT governor, are talking up an extension of the program beyond March 31, there has been no announcements, or even discussion, in the media about the situation. Continued …

Why Is It (Still) Difficult for Airlines To Add New Flights at Suvarnabhumi Airport?

With many countries opening their borders and returning to international flights, the question remains why many airlines still find it difficult to accommodate more arrivals and departures from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

According to Prachachat Business, the problems mainly affect flights from China, where, according to earlier reports, more than 20 airlines have applied for Suvarnabhumi airport, with 50 to 60 flights a day, since China opened its border.

The above figure indicates that the majority of applications have not yet been approved. It is important to note that the above figure is well below the record of around 200 flights per day in 2019. Continued …

China’s Spring Airlines sees recovery in flights

Flights between Thailand and China on Spring Airlines have recovered to 50% of pre-pandemic levels and are expected to resume normal frequencies this year, aided by high demand and a forecast of 5% Chinese GDP growth.

Zhang Wuan, vice president of the Chinese carrier, said flights between Thailand and China have emerged as one of the top international routes because Thailand remains a popular destination for Chinese travelers. Continued … 

Gold skyrockets as banks still wobble

Gold prices passed US$2,000 for the first time in more than a year on Monday as UBS’s recent takeover of its Swiss rival Credit Suisse for $3.2 billion failed to assure investors about ongoing bank woes. Continued …

‘Dear friends’ Xi and Putin meet in Moscow as Ukraine war rages

Russian President Vladimir Putin told Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday that he had looked at China’s proposals for a resolution of the Ukraine conflict and that he viewed them with respect. Continued …

EU agrees 2-billion-euro ammunition plan for Ukraine

European Union ministers agreed Monday on a two-billion-euro plan to raid their own arsenals and jointly purchase desperately needed ammunition for Ukraine. Continued …

French government narrowly survives no-confidence vote

French President Emmanuel Macron’s government narrowly survived a no-confidence motion in the National Assembly on Monday, after bypassing the lower house to push through a deeply unpopular change to the pension system. Continued …

DHL forecasts growth in international trade to stall

International trade growth is forecast to stagnate this year, as countries have raised interest rates to combat surging inflation, leading to a worldwide economic slowdown, says global logistics company DHL. Continued …

World on ‘thin ice’ as UN climate report gives stark warning

Humanity still has a chance, close to the last, to prevent the worst of climate change ‘s future harms, a top United Nations panel of scientists said Monday. Continued …

US prepares for unprecedented likely arrest of ex-president

America readied itself Monday ahead of the possible historic indictment of Donald Trump over a hush-money case, with the former president calling for mass demonstrations if he is charged. 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

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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

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

Saturday’s News-March 18

  • Phetchaburi immigration office moves to Cha Am district/
  • Cha Am Bikini Beach Run tomorrow/
  • Thailand’s economic outlook upgraded to 3.9% in 2023/
  • Asia-Pacific banks said safe from US contagion/
  • Thailand ready to dissolve Parliament, as PM submits decree to King/
  • 2023 election: number of voters in each generation/
  • Commentary: Wildlife wars must end/
  • Elephant filmed stopping trucks for food/
  • Thailand to celebrate 241st anniversary of Bangkok as its capital/
  • SRT on right track to lead Thailand’s green recovery/
  • AmChams Thailand Holds Asia Pacific Business Summit/
  • Gold prices up Bt500 to Bt31,750/
  • Diesel to dip to 33.5 baht a liter next week/
  • Draft bill sets in motion protection, legalization of sex work/
  • Thai man ‘nearly dies’ after replacing water with kratom tea/
  • Tourism: Pattaya island Koh Larn draws in 130,000 tourists this month/Bangkok’s Khao San Road hopes for Songkran boom/Is Chiang Mai Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know/Russians flee for Thailand to avoid Ukraine war call-up as they ‘take over’ top resorts/Why Amsterdam wants tourists to ‘stay away’/
  • Thailand Experience: Isan, Thailand: Unique culinary capital/
  • International: Arrest warrant issued against Putin over alleged war crimes/Credit Suisse at a crossroads as stocks slide again/Mountain forests disappearing at alarming rate/UN: Environmental threat looms as bottled water consumption grows exponentially/Golf’s ruling bodies clash with pros over plans to reduce golf ball distance/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Phetchaburi immigration office moves to Cha Am district

Cha Am Bikini Beach Run tomorrow

Thailand’s economic outlook upgraded to 3.9% in 2023

SCB EIC revised Thailand’s economic growth forecast to 3.9% (previously 3.4%) in 2023, thanks to an upbeat rebound from the tourism and service sectors.

Foreign tourist arrivals will likely hit 30 million in 2023 before resuming the pre-pandemic pace by late 2024.

With China lifting its zero-Covid restrictions, Chinese visitors should bounce back to around 4.8 million this year, alongside improving tourist arrivals from other countries. Continued …

Asia-Pacific banks safe from US contagion

Asia-Pacific banks are resilient to risks related to the failures of their U.S. peers, says Fitch Ratings, noting that regional banks have limited direct exposure to Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank.

“The direct exposures among Fitch-rated banks in Asia-Pacific to SVB and Signature that we are aware of are not material to their credit profiles,” the global rating agency said in a statement on Friday.

Few Fitch-rated banks in the region have depositor concentration profiles similar to SVB, which left it vulnerable to a run. Continued …

Thailand ready to dissolve Parliament, as PM submits decree to King

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said on Friday that he has prepared a decree to dissolve the Parliament and that it is awaiting royal endorsement.

Once approved, the decree will go into effect after being published in the Royal Gazette. As per the Constitution, the election should be held 45 to 60 days after Parliament is dissolved.

Prayut was speaking to the press while visiting the Chiang Mai International Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday as part of his election campaign. Continued …

2023 election: number of voters in each generation

The number of eligible voters in each age group will help determine which generation will have the greatest influence in the upcoming election.

According to the Bureau of Registration Administration, Thailand’s population as of December 2022 stood at 66,090,475, split into 32,270,615 men and 33,819,860 women.

However, the total number of qualified voters for the upcoming election is 52,322,824, which can be categorized as follows: Continued …

Wildlife wars must end

As Thailand celebrates National Elephant Day this week, the country is facing a paradoxical experience, with a surge in human-elephant conflicts that sometimes prove fatal.

March 13 was designated national elephant day in 1998. On the one hand, the elephant is glorified as a national symbol. In bygone days, the national flag even carried the image of an elephant.

On the other hand, human-elephant conflicts, as a result of shrinking habitats due to human expansion, are intensified. Food and sometimes water shortages drive wild elephants to raid farms and plantations, as well as villages. Continued …

Elephant filmed stopping trucks for food

A video of an elephant stopping trucks on a road in Thailand has been misleadingly shared in Facebook and Twitter posts about Cambodia. The clip actually was filmed in Chachoengsao province, east of Bangkok. A road sign seen in the video and the fact the vehicles are driving on the left side of the road also show the encounter took place in Thailand.

“Elephants in Cambodia have learned to exploit their right of way and stop passing sugar cane trucks to steal a snack. 0.5% road tax being collected by these intelligent beings,” reads the misleading claim shared on Twitter on March 6.

Regardless where it occurred, it’s fun to watch. Video …

Thailand to celebrate 241st anniversary of Bangkok as its capital

Thailand will celebrate the 241st anniversary of Bangkok serving as its capital around Rattanakosin Island. The Ministry of Culture and more than 30 other agencies are teaming up to hold the event between April 21-25, just a week after the Thai New Year of Songkran.

Organizers are hoping to promote tourism and create awareness of the history of Krung Rattanakosin. Religious ceremonies, a “Night Museum”, multimedia light and sound shows, a photo contest, and outdoor film screenings are being planned for the event. Continued … 

SRT on right track to lead Thailand’s green recovery

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is on the right track after announcing plans to build a hospital and develop land around Thon Buri Railway Station into an environmentally friendly zone, to lead the way in Thailand’s green recovery.

The transit-oriented development (TOD) project is the first of its kind in the country, designed to bring people, human activities, residential buildings and public space within walking distance of public transport.

The company will call bids for the project, which is set to be divided into several phases over about 20 years. The winning bidder for the 14-rai development project could put up a condo or apartments with no more than 13 storys, as stipulated by city ordinance. Continued … 

AmChams Thailand Holds Asia Pacific Business Summit

The AmChams of Asia Pacific Business Summit 2023, hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AMCHAM Thailand), in partnership with Trade Winds ASEAN and the U.S. Commercial Services, recently took place over three days.

This event was the largest U.S. government trade mission, with over 100 American businesses participating, offering numerous opportunities for networking, business development, and one-on-one meetings with the U.S. Foreign Commercial Services Department to gain insights on investing in the region.

“The AmChams of Asia Pacific Business Summit 2023 brought together key players in the American and Asian business communities for a three-day event that provided valuable insights into the latest trends and challenges in the region, said AMCHAM Executive Director Heidi Gallant. Continued …

Gold prices up Bt500 to Bt31,750

The Gold Traders Assn. today announced the buying prices at 31,078 baht per baht-weight for gold ornament and 31,650 baht per baht-weight for gold bar.

The selling prices were set at 32,250 baht per baht-weight for gold ornaments, and 31,750 baht per baht-weight for gold bar.

The prices rose 500 baht from Friday’s close, the highest since March 1. Continued …

Diesel to dip to 33.5 baht a liter next week

Motorists will see another dip in diesel prices to around 33.5 baht a liter next week, down from 33.94 baht, partly attributed to falling global crude oil prices, says the Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO).

The new price, scheduled to take effect on March 24, is the third in a series of deductions made since early February when the retail price of diesel was 34.94 baht a liter.

Diesel under Platts reference prices plunged to US$103 a barrel on average in February, down from $133 in January, and declined to $102 yesterday, said Wisak Watanasap, director of the OFFO. Continued …

Draft bill sets in motion protection, legalization of sex work

A bill to protect sex workers is being drafted to legalize sex work in a bid to prevent them from exploitation.

Narong Jaihan, a lecturer from the Faculty of Law at Thammasat University, on Friday said the bill, drafted by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), will legalize sex work and limit the minimum age to provide or buy the service.

Sex workers under 20 will not be guilty, but legal action will instead be taken against business operators that employ them underage, as well as their parents, Narong said. Continued …

Thai man ‘nearly dies’ after replacing water with kratom tea

A Thai man says he “nearly died” after replacing drinking water with kratom tea. Now, he’s warning others against abusing the formally-illegal plant.

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. The leaves of the kratom tree are known for their opioid and stimulant-like effects.

Leaves of the kratom tree have been used for centuries in Thailand, in traditional medicine as well as by farmers who chew kratom leaves to sustain their energy levels while working in the fields. Continued …

Pattaya island Koh Larn draws in 130,000 tourists this month

Pattaya‘s picturesque island of Koh Larn is proving to be a hit with tourists this month, with over 130,000 tourists flocking to the island. Officials expect this number to rise as Chinese tourists start to return to the area.

Pattaya Deputy Mayor Manote Nongyai said on Wednesday that Koh Larn saw an average of 10,000 visitors per day in the first two weeks of March. Manote noted that 70% of these tourists were Thai, with the two largest foreign groups being Russians and Indians. Continued …

Bangkok’s Khao San Road hopes for Songkran boom

The Songkran festival is likely to return to Khao San Road this year, as tourism operators are discussing possible events to lure visitors after the authorities prohibited water splashing last year.

Splashing occurred on the first day of Songkran last year on Khao San Road as tourists were unaware of the prohibition, with authorities enforcing the ban for the remainder of the festival. Continued … 

Is Chiang Mai Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

Out of all the cities I’ve visited worldwide, there is only a handful where I experienced “love at first sight.” Chiang Mai, the peaceful mountain city in northern Thailand, was one.

Although technically a city, its small size, laid-back atmosphere, and breathtaking mountainous scenery don’t make it feel like one. For these reasons and more, this northern Thai city is becoming increasingly popular among tourists and digital nomads.

If you’ve heard incredible things about Chiang Mai and are considering a trip here, you may wonder, “Is Chiang Mai safe?” Continued …

Russians flee for Thailand to avoid Ukraine war call-up as they ‘take over’ top resorts

Tens of thousands of Russians have fled to Thailand to escape a Ukraine war call-up. Top tourist resorts, such as Phuket, have been swamped with draft dodgers.

Some have taken over neighborhoods and have no intention of returning home.

Figures show at least 233,000 Russians have arrived on the isle of Phuket alone since November. The flood has led to a home price boom, as wealthy middle- class arrivals rent or buy to stay indefinitely on residential visas.

In Pattaya, would-be conscript Nikolai, 25, said he had traveled between Thailand, Cambodia and Laos to escape a call-up. Continued …

Why Amsterdam wants tourists to ‘stay away’

Amsterdam is taking a step closer to saying good riddance to wild bachelor parties and rowdy tourists.

The popular destination is launching a new campaign this spring aimed at curbing tourism-induced “nuisance and overcrowding” and building a more responsible visitor economy by 2035, according to the city’s tourism plan. The campaign’s new rules will impact some of the top tourist attractions: the Red Light District, river cruises, pub crawls and coffee shops.

City officials say they are tired of businesses who “abuse the city’s image to promote it as a place of ‘unlimited opportunity,’ ” according to the Vision on Tourism in Amsterdam 2035. The city has long attracted tourists from around the world wanting to experience its liberal laws around prostitution and tolerance of soft drugs. Continued …

Isan, Thailand: Unique culinary capital

Chances are you’ve already tried food from Isan, and you might not even know it. The largest region in Thailand, which hugs the border with Laos and Cambodia in the country’s northeast, has given us such classic dishes as som tum (green papaya salad) and larb (ground meat salad), and its diaspora is spreading this sour, spicy, herbaceous cooking style far and wide.

The cuisine is becoming so ubiquitous abroad, in fact, that an Isan restaurant in tiny Randolph, Vermont, called Saap, earned last year’s James Beard Award for best chef in the Northeast.

Those who venture to this off-the-beaten-path region of Thailand teeming with rice fields are rewarded with national parks and Khmer temple ruins that rival Angkor Wat, and now: Michelin-recommended restaurants. This year, the company expanded its Thailand guide to include Isan, doling out 33 Bib Gourmand designations across the region to spots like Kai Yang Saeng Thai, which has been serving its herb-marinated rotisserie chicken since 1967, and Lab Nua, known for its fiery salads and rice field snail soup. Continued and video …

Arrest warrant issued against Putin over alleged war crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant on Friday against Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of being responsible for war crimes committed in Ukraine. Russia has repeatedly denied accusations that its forces have committed atrocities during its one-year-old invasion of its neighbor. Continued …

Credit Suisse at a crossroads as stocks slide again

Credit Suisse shares fell again Friday despite being bolstered by the Swiss central bank, as investors worry about which road the embattled lender will take to try and restore confidence. Continued … 

Mountain forests disappearing at alarming rate

Logging, wildfires and farming are causing mountain forests, habitat to 85% of the world’s birds, mammals and amphibians, to vanish at an alarming rate, according to a study published on Friday. Continued …

UN: Environmental threat looms as bottled water consumption grows exponentially

More than 1 million bottles of drinking water are sold globally every minute, which comes at a significant environmental, climate, and social cost, a new United Nations report said. Continued …

Golf’s ruling bodies clash with pros over plans to reduce golf ball distance

Some of the world’s top professional golfers slammed plans by golf’s ruling bodies to impose restrictions on the distance that golf balls can travel during elite tournaments. 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, covid, hua hin, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-March 9

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

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Holiday weekend brings Bt548M to province

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Arkhom cools concern over inflation, economy overheating

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

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

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

Over 1.3 Million Air Pollution Cases So Far This Year

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Burning rubbish set for big fines as Nakhon Phanom smog unbearable

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

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

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

Fighting Thailand’s wildfires from the sky

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

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

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

New climate study raises alarm for Asian megacities

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

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

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

Illegal Chinese investment suspected in 6 Chiang Mai property projects

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

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

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

New Chao Phraya bridge to open in 2024

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

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

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

Bangkok to Chiang Mai high-speed rail project gears up

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

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

CoorsTek Selects Solar System at Rayong Manufacturing Facility

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Opinion: Weed bounty may go to pot

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

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

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

25-30 million foreign arrivals expected – tourism minister

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

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

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

TAT anticipates 6 million European visitors this year

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

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

Chinese tourists, infatuated with Thai school uniforms, given warning

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

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

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

Women make their mark in Thai gastronomy

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

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

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

Hok Peng Festival in northern province of Nan reveres ancient relics

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

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

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

Covid-19 drug now free of charge

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

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

Women march as rights under threat across the globe

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

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

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

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

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

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, cha am, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-Feb 28

  • Camping Festival at Market Village March 1-10/
  • ‘Dustman’, the Gravel Bike Race this weekend/
  • Phetchaburi Immigration to move closer to Cha Am March 20/
  • March flight schedule for Hua Hin Airport/
  • Radisson Resort & Spa Hua Hin opens its doors/
  • Baht declines amid volatile markets/
  • Thailand is home to the most motorcyclists in the world/
  • Haze problem set to worsen in March/
  • Elephant time: Have a smile at Thailand’s new elephant heartthrob/
  • Two Wild Elephants, Mother and Son, Are Rescued – video/
  • The Problems with Thailand’s Thailand’s Long-Term Visa/
  • Indian, Chinese Investors Buying Pubs, Restaurants In Pattaya/
  • ‘Wild Boar’ Duangphet to be cremated in England today/New round of state welfare card benefits to cover 14.5 million Thais/Over 52 million Thais eligible to vote during May 7 election/2% fewer drinkers in Thailand since booze controls in 2008/Thai government plans major push to Laos train service/Thailand and China to Expand Free Trade Agreement/Mega-flood ‘likely’ in the next decade/Cobra Gold 2023 officially begins in eastern provinces/
  • Tourism: Thailand welcomed 2.14 million international tourists last month/Pattaya’s Songkran Day on April 19/Thailand strengthens tourism ties with China/Outbound visa applications in Thailand increase 576%/Expats voice their opinions on Thailand vs Vietnam/
  • Thailand Experience: High-Quality Cannabis Food Sets a New Standard for Thai Cooking/
  • Covid: Songkran to test Thailand’s Covid defenses/Hong Kong scraps mask mandate after almost 1,000 days/
  • International: Exporters fear costs of EU carbon scheme/Antarctic sea ice shrinks to record low/Kremlin ‘drift’? Georgia turns on Russian opposition exiles/Finland moves closer to joining NATO without Sweden/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Camping Festival at Market Village March 1-10

‘Dustman’, the Gravel Bike Race this weekend

Phetchaburi Immigration to move closer to Cha Am March 20 – Location

March flight schedule for Hua Hin Airport

Radisson Resort & Spa Hua Hin opens its doors

Radisson Hotel Group has announce the opening of Radisson Resort & Spa Hua Hin, featuring 243 well-appointed rooms and suites, all with modern interiors and balconies overlooking the sea.

Six different accommodation types are available, including family suites with bunk beds and children’s amenities. A full range of leisure facilities includes an outdoor pool with a water slide, a water sports activity hub, a fitness center, spa, skate park and direct beachfront access.

A diverse collection of dining and social venues includes Horizon Restaurant with daily buffet breakfast, JoeKool Terrace Restaurant, which offers an elevated seafront experience with Thai and international cuisine, and JoeKool Pool Bar. The coastal Beach Club & Cabanas offers a long list of freshly caught seafood, barbecued on the spot, plus a regular calendar of uplifting events and entertainment, and the Champions Sports Bar provides cold beverages, light bites and live sports.

With a total of six function spaces, the resort offers a diverse mix of indoor and outdoor locations for business events and social celebrations.

Baht declines amid volatile markets

The baht fell to less than 35 against the U.S. dollar on Monday and recorded its lowest level for two months, after being the most volatile currency traded in the region this year.

The baht opened at 34.93 per dollar on Monday. During day-trade, it weakened to 35.16 against the greenback before closing at 35.10.

Roong Sanguanruang, head of global markets and research at the Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri), said that over the past two months the baht had been the most volatile currency in the region. Continued …

Thailand is home to the most motorcyclists in the world

The Pew Research Center reported that Thailand has the most motorcyclists in the world. Similarly, most victims of road accidents in the country are riding motorcycles.

If you’ve ever visited Vietnam, you might have noticed the abundance of motorbikes on the road, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. It may lead you to believe that Vietnam has the highest number of motorcyclists in the world.

However, a recent report by the Pew Research Center indicates that Thailand takes the lead in terms of motorbike ridership globally. According to the report, 87% of households in Thailand own at least one motorbike, beating Vietnam by only a sliver, where 86% of households own a motorcycle. Continued …

Haze problem set to worsen in March

The Center for Air Pollution Mitigation (CAPM) on Monday revealed that the haze pollution the country faces, especially in the northern region, will likely worsen next month, while Bangkok and its adjacent provinces will likely experience high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

On Monday, the CAPM reported that the air quality in 25 locations across the country is at unhealthy levels, as PM2.5 levels have surpassed the safe threshold of 50μg/m³. Continued …

Elephant time: Have a smile at Thailand’s new elephant heartthrob

“Tula” is a Thai wild elephant calf who has gone viral online due to its mischievous behavior. The rescued juvenile jumbo likes to tease its human babysitter during bath time. Check out Tula’s playful and naughty nature captured in this video.

Tula became separated from its herd at Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary in Chanthaburi province in October last year. Video 

Two Wild Elephants, Mother and Son, Are Rescued

Rescue wildlife officers saved two wild elephants, mother and son, that fell into a 5-meter deep hole in the middle of the Forest Protection Conservation Unit Khao Borae, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi, on Monday.

Residents reported to officials at the nearby Lam Khlong Ngu National Park at on Sunday. Officials then prepared the rescue mission with elephant conservation volunteers and rescue workers.

Video 

The incident in which the mother elephant and her 2-month-old son fell was a 5-meter sinkhole. Officials prohibited people from being near it because a herd of about 10 elephants was nearby trying to help the mother and son, which could pose a danger to people. Continued …

The Problems with Thailand’s Long-Term Visa

The Thai LTR (long-term residency) visa was introduced in September 2022, but the Board of Investment is currently looking for international investment firms to promote more golden eggs to be laid by wealthy foreigners. There are issues to solve.

Although Thailand promotes its version of LTR, other nations are discontinuing theirs – because immigrants, particularly Chinese and Russians, have been utilizing their resident permits to purchase up desirable houses, causing inflation and making it impossible for less-fortunate citizens to go on the property ladder, Portugal and Ireland recently canceled their 10-year options.

The same sell-out accusations were voiced in Thailand last year, forcing the government to scrap any plans to let wealthy foreigners purchase freehold homes or property in November. Only condominiums are permitted. Continued …

Indian, Chinese Investors Buying Pubs, Restaurants In Pattaya

While many foreigners are investing in Chonburi province, Indian and Chinese investors have channeled the most funds in buying up businesses in Pattaya to cater to their countryfolk holidaying at this seaside tourist city, business people in this province said.

Indian investors bought up pubs and restaurants on Pattaya’s Walking Street before China lifted travel restrictions on Jan. 8, but their investment is not fully integrated as is the pattern of Chinese investors.

Chinese investors have started buying restaurants, three- to four-star hotels and pool villas in Bang Lamung area, Pattaya city and Jomtien beach. Their investment includes chartering tourists attractions to integrate as a comprehensive tourism venture to cater to Chinese tourists, these business sources said, adding that it is likely the zero-dollar tours will return. Continued …

‘Wild Boar’ Duangphet to be cremated in England today

The parents of Duangphet “Dom” Promthep, 18, one of the 12 boys rescued from a flooded cave in Chiang Rai in 2018, will hold a funeral ceremony today to coincide with his cremation in England where he died.

Duangphet, one of the Wild Boar football team members who, along with their coach, was trapped in Tham Luang Cave in 2018 for over two weeks, died in England on Feb. 14, after collapsing in his dormitory room on Feb. 12.

He had won a scholarship to study at Brooke House College, a football academy about 150 kilometers north of London, in August last year, and subsequently flew to England in September. Continued …

New round of state welfare card benefits to cover 14.5 million Thais

About 14.5 million low-income earners will be eligible for benefits under the new round of the state welfare card scheme, the Finance Ministry said on Monday.

The ministry will propose the plan for this year’s first round at a Cabinet meeting today, said minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith.

After approval from the Cabinet, he expects to disburse the benefits from April 1 onward. Continued … 

Over 52 million Thais eligible to vote during May 7 election

As many as 52.32 million people are eligible to vote in the upcoming general election, with most voters aged between 42 and 57, social-tracking website Rocket Media Lab learned.

As per the Election Commission’s data, 52,322,824 out of 66,090,475 people across 400 electoral constituencies nationwide are eligible to vote.

Thais have the constitutional right to exercise their ballot once they turn 18. Continued …

2% fewer drinkers in Thailand since booze controls in 2008

The implementation of the alcoholic drink control act 15 years ago has led to a 2% drop in drinkers in Thailand, a seminar was told.

The seminar, titled “Different Views on 15-year Enforcement of the Alcoholic Drink Control Act”, was held on Sunday at Bangkok’s Asia Hotel. It had been organized by Moonlanithi Pua Sukphawa (Foundation for the State of Happiness) and the Network of Creative Media for Social Change.

Associate Prof. Dr. Udomsak Sae-ngow, director of the Research and Innovation Institute for Excellence at Walailak University, said since the act was implemented in 2008, there has been a definite drop in the number of boozers in Thailand. Continued …

Thai government plans major push to Laos train service

The Thai government plans to increase train service between Nong Khai province in Thailand and Thanaleng Station in Laos to 16 round trips a day in two years.

Work on the railway line between Nong Khai and Thanaleng, near Vietniane, was completed on June 30, 2022, and is presently operating, Tipanan Sirichana, deputy spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, said.

Currently, the train service runs twice a day, facilitating easy travel for Thai and Lao people. Continued …

Thailand and China to Expand Free Trade Agreement

Thailand has been stepping up trade cooperation with China by upgrading the free trade agreement (FTA) between China and ASEAN, including expanding mini FTAs with Chinese cities and provinces, Deputy Prime Minister Jurin Laksanawisit has said.

Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit made the announcement at the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce last week.

Jurin said the two countries enjoy practical cooperation under mechanisms including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and mini FTAs between Thailand and Chinese provinces such as Hainan and Gansu. Continued … 

Mega-flood ‘likely’ in the next decade

Thailand is likely to suffer from another “mega-flood” similar to the historic inundation in 2011 in the next decade, as climate change will increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events all over the world, a conference was told on Monday.

The director of Climate Change and Disaster Center, Seree Supratid, said at a press conference organized by FutureTales Lab by MQDC and Esri Thailand, that according to climate forecasting models, Thailand is likely to be seriously affected by widespread inundation in the next few years, with up to 34% of about 70 million Thais set to be affected by floods. Continued …

Cobra Gold 2023 officially begins in eastern provinces

Thailand Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Chalermpol Srisawasdi and U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert Godec today presided over the Cobra Gold 2023 opening ceremony at the Royal Thai Naval Airbase, Royal Thai Air Fleet in Rayong province.

Also attending the ceremony were the ambassadors to Thailand from Japan, the Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The Cobra Gold exercise is the largest joint multilateral military exercise in Southeast Asia, co-hosted annually in Thailand by the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. Continued …

 

 

Thailand welcomed 2.14 million international tourists last month

Thailand welcomed 2.14 million international tourists in January, data from the tourism ministry showed today. The data showed a small decline from the previous month.

The top three source markets last month were Malaysia with 288,745 tourists, Russia with 202,759 tourists, and South Korea 169,462 tourists.

However, the return of travelers from China, following the removal of Covid-19 restrictions, helped boost the numbers. A total of 91,841 Chinese tourists flocked to Thailand last month, compared with 3,110 in the same period last year. Continued … 

Pattaya’s Songkran Day on April 19

Pattaya’s biggest and wettest party officially returns for the first time in four years due to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions.

Songkran, which in one form or another will likely last a bit over a week in Pattaya, will culminate as it usually did, before Covid, with Wan Lai, or the “Big Day” on April 19.

This is, without a doubt, Pattaya’s biggest and wettest party but also polarizing especially to many expats, as hundreds of thousands of domestic and foreign tourists convene on Pattaya. Continued …

Thailand strengthens tourism ties with China

Thailand continues to strengthen tourism ties with China following the high-profile meeting between Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s minister of tourism and sports, and Hu Heping, minister of culture and tourism of the People’s Republic of China, taking place in Beijing on Feb. 21.

Also present at the meeting were Atthayut Srisamut, Thailand ambassador to China, Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing, and Yuthasak Supasorn, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Ratchakitprakarn said, “On behalf of the Thai government and the Thai people, I would like to express our sincere thanks to the Chinese government for its continued confidence in Thailand as a preferred holiday destination, and for including the kingdom among the 20 pilot destinations for the resumption of group travel from China.” Continued … 

Outbound visa applications in Thailand increase 576%

Applications for all visa types made between Jan. 1–31 last year grew by 576% when compared with applications made in the same time frame in 2021, reports VFS Global.

The fivefold increase shows that Thais are regaining their sense of adventure amid relaxed global restrictions, although visa applications are still not hitting pre-pandemic figures, reports TNA.

Head of VFS Global Australasia, Kaushik Ghosh, said, “The significant surge in visa applications from Thailand indicates that travelers’ confidence has rebounded faster than expected. With the peak outbound travel season expected to start in March, we expect this momentum to grow further and, therefore, those planning foreign travel outside of Thailand must apply for visas well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.” Continued …

Expats voice their opinions on Thailand vs Vietnam

There are obvious reasons while Thailand has been more attractive to tourists than Vietnam, but many expats also vouched for Vietnam as a nice destination that still has space for improvements.

“I, between Thailand and Vietnam, prefer Vietnam. I find the people in Vietnam nicer, friendlier and more polite. And I find a more genuine environment without seedy places like Thailand’s red-light districts, and I hope I never see them in Vietnam. The problem is that I am retired and eager to stay in Vietnam most of the year, (I like to live in Hanoi from March until mid-December) I am forced every 30 days to fly to Bangkok in order to be able to get a new visa of only 30 days, resulting in financial and time expense. Why not grant a visa of at least 3 months?” – Steve Continued … 

High-Quality Cannabis Food Sets a New Standard for Thai Cooking

Think again if you believe that the deliciousness of Thai food cannot be improved. Thai cuisine has changed as a result of the expanding culinary cannabis craze. Imagine combining the advantages of marijuana with the flavors of Thai food. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect marriage?

Thailand made history by legalizing marijuana in June 2022 for both medical and culinary purposes. It took a long time for this historic decision to be made, which represents a major shift in how the nation views marijuana.

The government has allowed companies to sell a variety of cannabis-infused foods by removing marijuana from the list of narcotics that are prohibited for consumption or distribution. Entrepreneurs and chefs can then explore the herb’s potential in novel and interesting ways, while showcasing their culinary creativity. Continued …

Songkran to test Thailand’s Covid defenses

Thai hospitals and community health centers have been ordered to prepare for a spike in Covid-19 infections over Songkran in April and schools reopening in June.

Hospitals have admitted 204 Covid-19 cases in the past week (Feb. 19-25), 66 of whom were suffering severe symptoms, said Public Health Permanent-secretary Opas Karnkawinpong on Monday.

Nine patients died of Covid-19 in the past week, all of them belonging to at-risk groups (over 60 and/or with chronic conditions). Continued …

Hong Kong scraps mask mandate after almost 1,000 days

Hong Kong is scrapping its mask mandate from tomorrow, Chief Executive John Lee announced, ending the financial hub’s last major Covid curb as it seeks to emerge from the pandemic.

The city was one of the last places in the world to require face coverings in virtually all public settings, with everyone over the age of two required to wear one or face a fine of up to HK$10,000 ($1,275).

“I announce that the masking requirement will be completely canceled starting tomorrow, March 1, including for indoors, outdoors and (on) public transportation,” Lee said at a brief press conference today. Continued …

Exporters fear costs of EU carbon scheme

Asian exports could potentially face a higher cost burden as the EU is preparing to launch a new regulation pertaining to imported carbon-intensive commodities later this year, experts say. Continued …

Antarctic sea ice shrinks to record low

Antarctic sea ice likely shrunk to a record low last week, U.S. researchers said on Monday, its lowest extent in the 45 years of satellite record-keeping. Continued … 

Kremlin ‘drift’? Georgia turns on Russian opposition exiles

Like thousands of Russians who decided to emigrate after their country invaded Ukraine, Anna Rivina moved to neighboring Georgia. But, a year later, she is no longer welcome. Continued … 

Finland moves closer to joining NATO without Sweden

Finland, which has one of Europe’s longest borders with Russia, today kicks off a parliamentary debate aimed at accelerating the country’s bid to join NATO, increasing the likelihood it will leave neighbor and military partner Sweden behind. 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 

 

 

90-day online reporting