- Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival/Positive Outlook for Vehha Hua Hin/Thailand marks National Elephant Day/Bangkok Ranked 8th Best City/Foreigner deaths in Thailand
- THE IRAN WAR: Iran vows to keep Hormuz shut/Thailand-Europe flights still operating/Oil surges above $100/Iran tensions underscore the urgency of renewables/Hormuz closure could hammer food costs/Immigration Tightens Screening/Thailand demands apology from Iran
- ECONOMY: Thailand to Challenge US Tariff Probe/Thailand has too much milk/Charging first-world prices in Pattaya/The future of work has arrived
- TOURISM: Thailand tourism steady/Southeast Asia’s Leading Medical Hub
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: A cavern of colors
- CLIMATE THAILAND: The best EVs in Thailand/U Power readies 1,000 battery-swap e-trucks
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival starts tomorrow
The Cha Am Blue Swimming Crab Festival will take place from March 14-21 at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, featuring fresh seafood, conservation activities, and nightly live music.
Phetchaburi Province, in collaboration with Cha Am City Municipality and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office, is organizing the event. Visitors will be able to enjoy menus featuring fresh blue swimming crab and seafood sourced directly from local fishermen, alongside crab-release activities and evening entertainment. Continued …
PROUD Sees Positive Outlook for Vehha Hua Hin development
Pasu Liptapanlop, executive director of Proud Real Estate Public Co, stated that the business outlook for 1Q26 remains positive, driven by revenue recognition from transfers of ownership for the “NUE District R9” and “VEHHA Hua Hin” projects.
Currently, the company’s ongoing sales projects are still receiving good responses. These include completed and ready-to-move-in projects such as “VEHHA Hua Hin”, with a total project value of B2.37 billion and sales of B1.62 billion (69%), Continued …
Thailand marks National Elephant Day amid a crisis of coexistence
Thailand marks its National Elephant Day every March 13 – but not all Thais are celebrating. Violent encounters between humans and pachyderms are on the rise, with hundreds of lives lost on both sides in recent years.
Last year alone, 29 humans and 30 elephants were killed in aggressive confrontations. Data released at the end of 2025 revealed the long-term toll of the crisis: 273 people and 244 elephants have died in clashes since 2012. Meanwhile, another 245 humans and 94 elephants suffered injuries. Continued …
Bangkok Ranked 8th Best City in the World for 2026
Bangkok has been ranked the eighth best city in the world in the 2026 Time Out Best Cities ranking, while also securing second place in Asia. The recognition highlights the Thai capital’s vibrant mix of culture, food, arts and music, according to officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
The ranking was determined by writers and individuals closely connected with the character and lifestyle of cities around the world. The announcement comes as Bangkok continues to gain global attention for its cultural and creative scene. The city recently hosted major international art events in late 2025, while the Bangkok Art Biennale is scheduled to return in October 2026. Continued …
Foreigner deaths in Thailand
- German tourist dies after falling from ninth floor of Pattaya hotel – Continued …
- American found dead in Chon Buri after sending farewell clip to wife – Continued …
- Indian man found dead on Kalim Beach in Phuket – Continued …
New Iran leader vows to keep Hormuz shut
Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has declared that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed, using the strategic waterway as leverage against the United States and Israel in his first public statement since taking over from his late father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In the statement, Khamenei called for national unity and praised Iran’s armed forces for preventing the country from being “dominated or divided” while under attack. He also said Iran would continue to use the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to pressure its enemies, while warning that US bases in the region should be shut and suggesting that attacks on such targets would continue. Continued …
Thailand-Europe flights still operating amid Middle East disruption
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) says air services between Thailand and Europe are still operating despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, although passengers are being urged to check flight schedules carefully before traveling, as airlines continue to adjust routes and restore some services on a limited basis.
Sarun Benjanirat, deputy director of CAAT, said the agency is closely monitoring developments because the regional security situation remains uncertain and could change at any time. He said that, overall, air travel between Thailand and Europe can continue, particularly for flights that do not require a stopover in the Middle East, as airlines have been able to switch to alternative routes. Continued …
Oil surges as Brent closes above $100 after Iran vows Hormuz will stay shut
Crude oil prices closed above the $100-a-barrel mark yesterday after Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz shut, signaling that markets may be facing a prolonged supply disruption.
Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose 9.2% to settle at $100.46 a barrel, the first close above $100 since August 2022. US West Texas Intermediate crude also jumped, settling at about $95.70 a barrel. Continued …
Iran tensions underscore the urgency of Asia’s renewables pivot for macroeconomic stability
For the second time in four years, energy markets in Asia dependent on imported fossil fuels find themselves at the mercy of global commodity markets. Although each country’s immediate exposure to the Iran conflict varies, all face the indirect threat of higher costs driven by tighter fossil fuel markets and elevated geopolitical risk premiums.
The duration of the conflict, the extent of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, and outages at key energy infrastructure in the Persian Gulf remain key unknowns. Prolonged escalation could cause energy price spikes to spill over into core economic indicators — including inflation, interest rates, trade balances, and gross domestic product (GDP) growth — derailing fiscal and monetary goals. Continued …
Prolonged Hormuz closure could hammer food costs in Thailand
The crisis in the Middle East, which is disrupting trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz, is raising global concern that the fallout could spread far beyond energy markets and trigger a rise in food prices worldwide.
The Strait of Hormuz is not only a major route for oil and natural gas shipments, but also a strategic corridor for transporting fertilizer, a key input for agriculture around the world. Analysts say any disruption to shipping could raise farming costs, reduce crop yields, and, ultimately, make food more expensive. Continued …
Thai Immigration Tightens Screening Amid Israel Rumors
The Immigration Bureau has confirmed it is tightening screening measures for foreign nationals arriving from conflict zones in the Middle East, following public concern about the number of Israeli citizens staying in the country.
Officials said rumors claiming hundreds of thousands of Israelis are residing in Thailand are inaccurate. Authorities reported that only around 31,892 Israeli nationals were present in the country as of March 10. Continued …
Thailand demands apology from Iran over Thai ship attack
Thailand has lodged a formal protest with Iran following an incident in which a Thai-flagged cargo ship was hit and damaged while sailing in the Strait of Hormuz, affecting 23 Thai crew members on board. Sirilak Niyom, deputy permanent secretary for foreign affairs, held talks yesterday with Nassereddin Heidari, ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Thailand, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand.
During the meeting, Sirilak raised concerns over the incident involving the Thai-flagged cargo ship Mayuree Naree, which was struck and damaged while sailing through the strategic waterway after departing from Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates. Continued …
Thailand to Challenge US Tariff Probe, Citing Role of American Firms in Trade Surplus
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, has confirmed that the government is prepared to challenge a looming US investigation into “unfair trade practices.” Working in close coordination with the Ministry of Commerce, the Thai government has developed a robust strategic framework to address the Section 301 probe initiated by the Trump administration.
The investigation, launched under the Trade Act of 1974, seeks to scrutinize industrial policies and “structural excess capacity.” However, Bangkok’s primary line of defense rests on a pointed irony: a significant portion of the trade surplus Washington finds objectionable is actually generated by American companies operating within Thailand. Continued …
Thailand has too much milk
The Department of Internal Trade (DITP) has issued an “urgent” summons to commercial dairy operators for a crisis meeting today. The move follows reports of a massive raw milk surplus exceeding 200 tons per day, leaving dairy farmers across the country with no buyers despite existing purchase agreements (MOUs).
While government officials point to rising production levels in 2025, industry sources say the crisis is a symptom of deep-seated structural issues rather than a simple matter of oversupply. Continued …
Charging first-world prices while paying third-world wages raises questions about Pattaya’s economic direction
A growing complaint heard among both long-term visitors and local workers in Pattaya can be summed up in a blunt phrase circulating online: “first-world prices with third-world wages.” The remark reflects a widening debate about the changing cost of living in the city.
While prices for food, drinks, accommodation, and services have steadily increased, many workers say their wages have not kept pace. At the same time, foreign visitors are also noticing the shift. Pattaya, once famous for being one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable seaside destinations, is increasingly compared to far more expensive tourist cities. Continued …
The future of work has arrived: Is your job future-proof?
The foundation of modern employment – study hard, secure a job, build a stable life – is eroding fast. Technological progress, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, is breaking down the old economic model that tied individual effort to secure, long-term work.
From logistics to legal services, tasks considered immune to disruption are now being replaced by algorithms at a fraction of the cost and time. This shift is triggering a structural imbalance across the globe. Highly qualified professionals, graduates, master’s, and doctorate holders are increasingly found in gig-based roles far beneath their skill sets. Continued …
Thailand tourism steady despite 4.4% dip amid Middle East conflict
Thailand recorded a 4.4% decline in international tourist arrivals between Jan. 1 and March 11, compared with the same period last year, but inbound travel has remained steady into early March despite pressures linked to Middle East tensions, reported the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.
Natreeya Thaewiwong, the ministry’s permanent secretary, said cumulative arrivals in the first part of March 2026 show inbound travel is continuing “with good stability and without a severe slowdown,” even as Thailand monitors developments that could influence demand. Continued …
Thailand on Track to Become Southeast Asia’s Leading Medical Hub
Medical tourism has gained attention as a growing segment within the travel market, with high potential for expansion. According to the Medical Tourism Assn. (MTA), it is estimated that over 14 million people travel abroad for medical services annually.
The significant growth of global medical tourism can be attributed to the high healthcare costs in developed countries compared to the quality healthcare available at more affordable prices in other countries. Additionally, long wait times for treatment also contribute to this shift. Continued …
A cavern of colors
About an hour west of Chiang Mai, the ancient city gives up its grip. The traffic lights thin out. The stylish coffee shops — the carefully poured kind — disappear. Longan orchards, low houses, and farmsteads start to roll out, unfolding the beautiful countryside of Samoeng, one of the province’s most scenic districts.
The drive to Samoeng isn’t dramatic, but it keeps bending into the mountain landscape, as if reconsidering itself every few kilometers. Teak and bamboo press in close. By the time you reach Khun Khan National Park, the air already feels different — less urban, a little looser. Continued …
The best EVs in Thailand right now
Every time oil prices spike, fuel market prices respond with jitteriness. And now, more than ever, sentiments of switching to an electric vehicle (EV) in Thailand for 2026 have never echoed this loudly.
If I were to present this idea to you as recently as this past year, your answer would most likely be along the lines of “EVs are just not there yet” or “Charging them would still take ages, so it’s not entirely worth it.” But the thing is, this simply isn’t true anymore. In just a handful of years, EVs have progressed exponentially to the point where price and performance rival their tried and true petrol gas-guzzling counterparts. Continued …
U Power readies 1,000 battery-swap e-trucks for Thailand launch
U Power has completed comprehensive operational testing and full-stack integration of a battery-swapping heavy-duty truck prototype ahead of a planned 1,000-unit deployment in Thailand with logistics partner Whale Logistics.
The prototype vehicles, jointly developed with SAIC Hongyan Automotive and UNEX EV, underwent three months of full-condition road testing, with all technical parameters meeting design specifications, positioning the project for mass production and first deliveries by May 2026. Continued …
- Police Detain Chinese Scam Suspects in Kanchanaburi – Continued …
- Chinese Man Arrested Over Laughing Gas Sales in Pattaya – Continued …
- American Man Caught Stealing Shoes at Chiang Mai Shop – Continued …
- British Man Held in Chiang Mai Over Overstay, Theft, and Sex Allegations – Continued …
- Russian man gropes Thai tattoo artist outside Pattaya studio – Continued …
Europeans And Expats Share How They REALLY Feel About American Tourists Right Now
Every summer, Americans flock to Europe to get their cultural fix: a visit to the Vatican here, a selfie and guided tour at the Parthenon there. Generally, they’re met by friendly Europeans on their treks on the continent. But as anti-American sentiment grows across the globe due to trade wars and actual wars, some travelers may worry: Will American visitors encounter a cooler reception across Europe on their summer trips? Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Commerce officials have stepped up Cha Am fresh market price checks as part of efforts to ensure vendors clearly display prices and to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
For many people, a fall may seem like a minor accident. But for older adults, a single fall can be life-changing — especially if it results in a hip fracture, one of the most serious and common injuries among older adults. Without proper treatment, a broken hip can lead to long-term disability, loss of independence, the need for ongoing care, and a significant decline in quality of life.
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) at the Ministry of Public Health has issued a warning urging the public to be especially vigilant against influenza, after an upward trend in cases. Between Jan. 1 and March 9, Thailand recorded 137,276 cumulative cases and eight deaths.
Thailand’s personal income tax filing deadline is April 8, and many expats remain uncertain about whether they must submit a return this year. Since clarification of the rules surrounding foreign income, confusion has persisted. Having little or no tax to pay is not the same as having no obligation to file.
A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around B1.3 billion.
Facing jittery global markets and drooping poll numbers since launching a war on Iran, US President Donald Trump has cycled from calls for “unconditional surrender” to sounding amenable to an end state in which Iran trades one hard-line ayatollah for another.
The US-Israel-Iran conflict, now in its 11th day, is set to hammer Thailand’s economy despite being fought 7,000 kilometers away. With the Strait of Hormuz closed and oil above US$120 per barrel, Thailand faces its sharpest energy and trade disruption in decades.
The Middle East conflict has unsettled global oil markets and disrupted shipping routes, posing risks for energy-dependent Thailand. After experiencing prolonged low inflation, the country now faces a potential inflation rebound driven by rising oil and freight costs.
RealWatch Lab, the research and data analytics unit of Real Smart Public Co/, has disclosed the findings of a survey on the concerns of Thai netizens regarding the Iran war. The survey collected opinions from Feb. 28, after the attacks started, to March 10, across all social media platforms, covering 34,009 messages discussing concerns arising from the conflict.
Banks are urging prospective homebuyers to make purchasing decisions within the first half of the year before costs rise further, amid concerns that inflation could increase under wartime conditions.
The war in the Middle East, which has caused oil prices to fluctuate and remain high, has led the government to continue capping diesel at no more than B30 per liter. As of March 11, the Oil Fuel Fund was subsidizing diesel by B16.97 per liter, a sharp increase from just B0.74 per liter on Feb. 27, one day before the United States and Israel attacked Iran.
The United States has announced investigations under Section 301 into 16 key trading partners, including Thailand, as part of an effort to rebuild tariff pressure after the Trump administration’s earlier duties were struck down by the US Supreme Court.
Thai hospitality leaders are doubling down on 2026 expansion plans, committing billions in capital expenditure to navigate a tightening global travel market. Despite a projected 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, the industry faces headwinds from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which threatens to dampen high-spending “long-haul” traffic from Europe and the Americas.
Phuket has long stood as one of Asia’s most celebrated destinations. Framed by the Andaman Sea, its turquoise waters, rich cultural fabric, and globally recognized hospitality have attracted millions of visitors for decades.
Do you think gender equality is still an issue in Thailand? Whether the answer is yes or no, explaining why can be surprisingly difficult.
The sun had yet to rise at 6 am, but Sarayuth Sonlacksa was already crouched on his wooden jetty, hoisting up plastic crates of crabs from his pond to see if any had reached the size needed to sell to restaurants in Bangkok.
At a sanctuary in Thailand, hundreds of rescued creatures are given a second chance after suffering from illegal trade, neglect, or captivity. But saving wildlife is never easy. A sun bear must be darted for treatment, a monkey terrorizing a school must be captured safely, and a fragile falcon fights to survive after a serious head injury leaves him blind in one eye. Each rescue is a reminder of how fragile wildlife truly is. 
Wellness tourism has become one of the most dynamic sectors within global travel. Many travelers now prefer holidays that combine relaxation, nature, and wellbeing experiences. The Global Spa Awards 2026 recognized exceptional spa resorts, wellness retreats, and spa hotels across different regions of the world.
Thailand attracts a wide spectrum of potential relocators, from long-stay retirees to remote workers and corporate transferees. However, the country’s structural realities around environment, governance, infrastructure, and social norms mean it is far better suited to some profiles than others.
Signs of higher prices in 2026 are emerging, with Thai Beverage (ThaiBev) notifying retailers — particularly agents who play a key role in distribution — of beer price adjustments.
As geopolitical tensions continue to drive up oil prices and push the country’s energy costs higher, Thailand’s Energy Ministry has launched measures to reduce electricity consumption in government agencies and encourage households to save power, as the country prepares for further volatility linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Some Asian buyers of liquefied natural gas are struggling to find prompt cargoes after a war-related outage at the world’s largest export facility in Qatar tightened global supplies.
Economist warns Thailand could encounter stagflation
MR. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand) plans to invest 4 billion baht this year, aiming to open 210 new stores and build an automated warehouse to support its expansion.
The government has reaffirmed that no new Cambodian migrant workers will be allowed into the country due to security concerns, despite pressure from the private sector. Labor Minister Treenuch Thienthong said the government understands the concerns raised by businesses over labor shortages.
Thailand’s tourism industry is struggling with the sudden impact from the Middle East conflict on long-haul travel, with weekly arrivals down 13% due to flight disruptions. In light of emerging trends, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) says arrivals to Thailand from long-haul source markets could fall by as much as 50% this year.
Solar power is Thailand’s master key in the fight against global warming. It is cheap, popular, and even promoted by the state. But beneath the success story lies a big question: What happens when millions of panels begin to die? Without proper measures, Thailand’s clean energy rush risks dumping a toxic legacy for the next generation.
Thai customs authorities have confiscated 284 tons of electronic waste at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri, and are preparing to send the illegal shipment back to the United States where it originated.
Wind Energy Holding has announced a five-year investment budget of 20-billion baht for the period 2026–2030, advancing three strategic workstreams aimed at expanding its renewable energy portfolio to 2,000 megawatts.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin presided over a signing ceremony establishing a cooperation framework to address marine waste and support the sustainable management of Thailand’s marine resources. The effort aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 14, which promotes the protection and sustainable use of oceans and marine ecosystems.
Authorities from Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) raided a warehouse in Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani, seizing more than 120,000 dried gecko carcasses and nearly 30 tons of protected timber allegedly prepared for export to China.
Global oil prices surged sharply in early-week trading after tensions from the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated, stoking market fears of tighter oil supplies and risks to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.
The conflict in the Middle East is shaking the global economy, but it may also create an opportunity for Thailand’s property sector to emerge as a new destination for wealthy buyers shifting away from Dubai and into the ultra-luxury residential market.
The Ministry of Commerce has stated that the ongoing unrest in the Middle East is expected to have limited direct effects on Thailand, as the country’s trade share with the countries involved in the conflict remains relatively small. The assessment followed a recent meeting led by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun to review potential economic consequences.
The auto industry could record sluggish car exports this year following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which also raises inflation concerns if the conflict is prolonged, says Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club.
Iran has formally nominated Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, as the nation’s supreme leader. The move signals that the regime’s hardline factions intend to maintain an iron grip on power despite a week of devastating conflict with Israel and the United States.
Weakening consumer confidence, rather than rising costs alone, has become the biggest threat to Thailand’s property market, as global uncertainty prompts buyers to delay major purchases, according to Pornnarit Chuanchaisit, president of the Thai Real Estate Assn.
The Commerce Ministry has launched a “Resilience” strategy aimed at protecting the country’s export sector from global risks, including geopolitical conflicts and trade polarization. The policy seeks to strengthen Thailand’s ability to maintain export growth while navigating an increasingly uncertain global trading environment.
Passengers intending to travel between Asia and Europe will need to plan their trips well in advance to secure reasonable ticket prices, as the Middle East conflict has driven significant demand for a limited number of direct flights, says the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
Songkran 2026 travel demand rises as Pattaya leads domestic destinations
For decades, Pattaya has been one of Thailand’s most talked-about tourist destinations. Known for its beaches, nightlife, and lively streets, the coastal city attracts millions of visitors each year. But as discussions on travel forums and social media show, opinions about Pattaya can vary dramatically depending on personal experiences.
The Hostel and Small Accommodation Assn. (Thailand) has urged the new government to continue pushing for a new accommodation act for small hotels, but strongly opposes allowing condo units to be registered as legal lodging.
Indonesia bans elephant riding
This is the story of a Garden of Eden, hidden deep within the jungles of Southeast Asia. A national park that’s home to an almost unimaginable variety of animals. Not only noteworthy for its countless species, Kui Buri National Park in southwestern Thailand is also known for its abundance of large animals, like Asian elephants and wild bovines. The scarce gaur lives here, the world’s largest bovine species, and it is also home to the smaller, ruddy banteng. 
Breathtaking Region Between Phuket And Krabi One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations
Lingering In Chiang Mai: Temples, Tea, And Tranquillity In Northern Thailand
Thailand’s clean power supply and energy trade are poised for changes under the draft Power Development Plan (PDP), which will shape the country’s electricity landscape from 2026 to 2050. The new PDP seeks to accelerate renewable energy projects and introduce nuclear power into the mix, according to energy officials and executives.
Inflation in Venezuela soared to 475% in 2025, the highest in the world, driven by a tightening of US sanctions in the lead-up to the ouster of leader Nicolas Maduro. Full-year inflation far exceeded the International Monetary Fund’s forecast of 270%, figures released by the central bank showed on Friday. 
The Japanese government is moving to abolish the need for most foreign tourists to meet face-to-face with immigration officers to enter the country, as it seeks to streamline entry procedures amid the inbound tourism surge. The Immigration Services Agency said it would instead rely on visitor information collected through an online pre-travel screening system called Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or JESTA, set to launch in fiscal 2028. 
Indonesia will restrict access to social media platforms for children under 16, its communications and digital ministry said on Friday, making it the latest country to install online guardrails to reduce the risks of addiction and cyberbullying. 
PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) has increased natural gas extraction in the Gulf of Thailand to its maximum possible levels to safeguard national energy security. The move comes in response to potential global energy supply disruptions caused by instability in the Middle East.
Thailand’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Natthariya Thaweewong moved yesterday to secure discounted accommodation for foreign tourists stranded by the U.S.–Iran conflict that erupted on Saturday, as hundreds of flights scheduled to land at the country’s main airports were scrapped over the weekend and signals from Washington DC and Tel Aviv indicated the war could last another four to five weeks.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas convened an urgent meeting yesterday with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. Joined by Thailand’s ambassador in Washington and private-sector representatives, the meeting aimed to set a national strategy in response to the United States’ new tariff policy and trade-restricting measures.
Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok will open its new 24-hour Automated Border Control (ABC) passport gates for departures on Thursday, to reduce queues for the convenience of passengers. The opening follows a trial period in mid-February when the gates were available only from 7 am to 7 pm.
Four Dead in Prachuap Crash/Hua Hin father shoots son dead/Tea vs. coffee – Which is healthier?/Illegal Fishing Tours Busted/Diesel price frozen/Hot days, thunderstorms forecast/72 tigers die at Chiang Mai tiger parks/Meta to end Messenger.com
Four people, including a two-year-old boy, were killed when a Toyota Fortuner driver lost control and struck a roadside electricity pole in Prachuap Khiri Khan province yesterday. The crash occurred at around 10.30 am on Phetkasem Road, inbound to Bangkok, in Bang Saphan district.
For many people, the day doesn’t begin until the kettle whistles or the coffee maker hums. After all, tea and coffee aren’t just beverages; they’re rituals, identities and even small acts of comfort. One offers a steady, almost meditative lift, while the other delivers a more immediate, higher-caffeine jolt that feels like flipping on a switch.
Authorities at Kaeng Krachan National Park have arrested a Thai man accused of illegally guiding tourists to fish inside the protected area without permission. The operation was led by park chief Mongkol Chaiphakdee yesterday, following complaints about unauthorized fishing trips promoted on social media.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts for today and tomorrow, the high-pressure system or cold air mass covering the northeast and the South China Sea will weaken.
Probe underway after 72 tigers die at Chiang Mai tiger parks
US Supreme court throws out Trump’s tariffs
U.S. President Donald Trump responded with fury to yesterday’s Supreme Court ruling that he did not have the power to unilaterally set tariffs on imports, denigrating individual justices as he vowed to wield a more restrictive law to continue his global trade war. 
The US Supreme Court ruling ordering the cancellation of President Donald Trump’s import-tariff increases has pushed the global trading system back into “confusion and turmoil”, as governments, businesses, and consumers race to find answers to two pressing questions: “How do we get tariff refunds?” and “What happens next?”
Following a surprise growth result for the fourth quarter of 2025 and an improved performance over the past year, Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research) has upgraded its outlook for the Thai economy.
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department has announced the allocation of additional relief funds to 140,000 households severely impacted by the recent floods. The financial aid aims to assist in securing essential supplies, such as food, clean water, and medical care, to help communities rebuild and recover.
How Thailand is Reforming the Seafood Industry to Prevent Exploitation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced yesterday the passenger service charge (PSC) on outbound international travelers will rise to 1,120 baht per person from 730 baht from June 20.
Thai hotel operators expect overall foreign tourist numbers in 2026 to remain flat compared with last year, particularly among three-star and below properties reliant on short-haul markets, excluding China. Anticipated growth in long-haul arrivals is expected to be offset by stagnation in short-haul demand.
While Thailand celebrates rising tourism numbers and record profits at major gateways, many businesses on the ground in Pattaya are asking a blunt question: where is the money— and who is it really for?
Authorities in Buriram say preparations are complete for the 2026 MotoGP season opener, with safety, traffic and tourism plans in place ahead of upcoming pre-season testing. The first shipment of racing equipment has arrived at the Chang International Circuit, where infrastructure installation is under way.
The “Thailand lost its edge” narrative has become common expat discourse in 2025 and 2026. Bangkok rents climbed 8% to 12% year-on-year, visa enforcement tightened significantly, and a remittance tax shock led 55% of expats to consider leaving, according to a survey.
Pasaya is a sustainable fabric brand and its factory in Ratchaburi is equipped with a wastewater treatment pond, a proper landfill-based waste management method, and a proper working environment with ventilation and growing trees.
The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) is holding its first networking event of 2026 in Hua Hin, hosted at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Recently, a couple posted on the social media forum about their experience near Chiang Mai. They found a puppy being bullied by other strays and felt compelled to help. With only two days before leaving the northern province and embarking on a two-week trip around Thailand, they wondered whether bringing the dog to the US was feasible within their timeframe.
The prices of computers and some IT products have skyrocketed as a result of rising rates for memory chips in the global market. Memory chip prices have increased by 80%-90% quarter-on-quarter in 2026, according to the February issue of Memory Price Tracker, marking an unprecedented surge.
A cluster of nine earthquakes measuring between 1.9 and 3.2 on the Richter scale struck tambon Khao Phang in Ban Ta Khun district of the southern province of Surat Thani between Wednesday and Thursday morning, the Department of Mineral Resources reported.
Recount. Nationwide vote recount. The Election Commission must resign. A new election altogether. These are the growing demands of some voters, particularly supporters of the People’s Party, who believe the Feb. 8 snap election was not just rigged here and there but systemically manipulated.
Many Thai small and medium-sized businesses — often run from homes, co-working spaces or cafés — face rising cyber risks that can be as harmful as a flooded shop or a lost delivery. From careless clicks to old software, a single mistake can stop a small team’s operations.
Over the past five years, both public and private universities have been setting up new faculties and launching courses linked to health, driven by the rapidly growing health economy from the trend of people paying more attention to health (wellness) to achieve longevity — living longer in good health.
Thailand’s position as a strategic hub for investors targeting the ASEAN region continues to strengthen, supported by record investment inflows, future-ready national strategies, major connectivity upgrades and rising international confidence in the country’s economic direction.
The highly volatile price swings of gold, which is impacting many Thais obsessed with the yellow metal, has forced the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to step in to regulate the large volume of trading affecting the baht’s rate.
More Chinese tourists are expected to travel overseas during next week’s extra-long Lunar New Year break, with top destinations ranging from Russia and Australia to Thailand and South Korea, travel agencies say, but Japan has lost some of its appeal.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported today that PM2.5 levels have surged, with the citywide average hitting 38.7 µg/m³ at 7 am, above the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst affected areas include Nong Chok, where PM2.5 levels hit 50.6 µg/m³.
Bangkok is set to strengthen its waste-management system with two new waste-to-energy power plants being developed by C&G Environmental Protection (Thailand). The projects, valued at 12 billion baht, are located in Nong Khaem in southwest Bangkok and On Nut on the eastern portion of the capital, said chief executive He Ning.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced yesterday the revocation of scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions are harmful to human health, along with the cancellation of vehicle exhaust emissions standards for cars and trucks, This move marks the largest cancellation of climate change policy by this administration to date, following the removal of regulations and actions aimed at promoting fossil fuel development while hindering the growth of clean energy. 
Ongoing efforts to derail multilateral tax cooperation lie at the heart of a global program to replace democratic governance with coercive rule by the extremely wealthy – or what we call 21st-century Caesarism. Any strategy to counter this program, therefore, must recognize that taxing extreme wealth is essential to saving democracy. 
Travelers heading between Hua Hin and Bangkok are being advised to plan ahead following a Rama II Road closure at the Bang Khun Thian Bridge that will last for up to four months.
The Hua Hin Chinese New Year celebration will take place on Monday, Feb. 16, starting at 4 pm, with Hua Hin City Municipality confirming a full program of traditional processions, performances, and cultural activities.
Hua Hin’s electric vehicle master plan moved a step forward yesterday as city officials met with Shinawatra University to discuss EV adoption and charging infrastructure.
Traffic signs and road markings installed on Soi 78 to ease congestion
The economy is expected to expand by 1.51%–1.75% this year, says a public opinion survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Thanavath Phonvichai, UTCC president and chairman of the advisory board at the university’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, said the survey on public expectations of the new administration shows voters prioritize structural economic reform over short-term populist measures.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry insists the government’s plan to reduce visa-free stays from 60 days should not impact tourism, as most foreign tourists, on average, stay for less than a month.
The average daily rate for hotels in Thailand surged by 3% last year to 4,984 baht and they recorded a longer average length of stay, with Booking.com, Agoda, and direct hotel bookings generating the most revenue, according to SiteMinder.
The “Disneyland Thailand” buzz has resurfaced after Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, deputy prime minister and minister of transport, floated the idea of moving ahead with a world-class theme park project in Chonburi under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) scheme.
A record-breaking surge in wealthy people “relocating abroad” is reshaping the global balance of power. Countries are increasingly being treated like assets, while citizenship is becoming a tool for diversifying risk. In an era where state policy can change faster than economic fundamentals, capital moves first — and moves more aggressively than ever before. 
Thailand will impose a temporary nationwide ban on the sale, distribution and serving of alcoholic beverages during the general election. The restriction will be in force from 6 pm yoday until 6 pm tomorrow. During this period, alcohol will not be legally available in any setting nationwide.
The restaurant industry continues to face several challenges this year, as tourism has not fully recovered, labor shortages persist, and costs remain high. Chanon Koetcharoen, president of the Restaurant Association, said the tourism industry has an uncertain outlook in terms of traveler numbers, contributing to difficulties for eateries this year.
While 786 factories closed in 2025 and 1,220 new ones opened, there were more closures than openings in December for the first time in two years, according to the Kasikorn Research Center. This reflects ongoing structural problems and intense competition in the manufacturing sector, the research center pointed out,
Gulf Development Public Co has successfully secured loan facilities totaling 60,000-million baht to support the development of 27 renewable energy power projects with a total contracted generation capacity of 939 MW.
In January, the number of layoffs in the United States surged to 108,435, marking the highest level since the 2009 subprime crisis. This increase, which represents a rise of 118% compared to January 2025 and 205% compared to December 2025, highlights a troubling trend in the job market. In addition to the surge in layoffs, new hiring also dropped to its lowest point in 17 years, with just 5,306 new positions announced in January. 
Canada and France, which both oppose US President Donald Trump’s claim to Greenland, opened consulates in the Danish autonomous territory’s capital yesterday, in a show of support for the local government. Since returning to the White House last year, Trump has insisted that Washington needs to control the strategic, mineral-rich Arctic island for security reasons. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will organize the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
The inaugural Hua Hin Ultra Marathon 2026 will take place on Saturday, May 23, marking the first time the city has hosted an ultra-distance running event of this scale. The race will start and finish at Rajabhakti Park and will offer four distances, ranging from a 10-kilometer evening run to a 100-kilometer ultra marathon.
Chiva-Som Hua Hin has been celebrated for its unique approach to wellness, commitment to excellence, and heartfelt care,. These awards recognize excellence not only in personal transformation but also in its pioneering commitment to corporate responsibility, environmental wellness, and strong local community engagement.
The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA, reported the latest hotspot index on Sunday, based on data from the Suomi NPP satellite via the VIIRS system.
Small-scale egg farmers are facing a growing economic crisis after large commercial farms and wholesalers began selling eggs below average production costs, pushing market prices to unsustainable levels.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is optimistic about sports tourism growth this year as it hosts the Amazing Muay Thai Festival this week, expecting more than 18,000 visitors.
The Woven Heritage of Thai Fabrics: Tradition Meets Modern Identity
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DOAE) has announced the establishment of 30 “Green Gain Hubs” across Thailand, aimed at tackling air pollution caused by agricultural burning. This initiative addresses the severe impact on public health, the economy, and the environment, and is also aimed at reducing the negative effects on agricultural production, including soil degradation, high production costs, and lower yields.
Foreign man flags sea pollution off Jomtien Beach in Pattaya