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Thursday’s news-Sept 11

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Three food festivals/Cha-am water supply disruption/Lions Kill Zoo Staffer/Safari World vows urgent safety review/Urgent flood warning issued/Monsoon mayhem looms/Weak laws as domestic violence surges/Thais among top 10 global gold buyers/PM Anutin reveals assets/ECONOMY: Thailand and US Begin Tariff Talks/US capital moves from China to Thailand/Thailand’s FTA trade benefits/European firms keen on Thailand/Flaws in proposed Hotel Act/TOURISM: Sex tourism in Thailand spotlighted/Chinese Tourist Dies off Koh Larn/Thai Airways to phase out its first class/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Khao Yai Asia’s No.2 rural destination/Luxury Travelers Are Flocking to Secluded Resorts/CLIMATE THAILAND: Face masks: An environmental time bomb/FOREIGNERS/INTERNATIONAL/NEW PAGE – HUA HIN LINKS 

Three food festivals to take place near Hua Hin this weekend

Food lovers are in for a treat this weekend, with three food festivals set to get underway near Hua Hin. Each event will highlight local cuisine, seafood, and community culture across the region. Continued …

Cha-am water supply disruption today

Cha-am Municipality has announced a temporary suspension of the water supply in several communities today. The disruption will take place between 9am and 5pm. Continued …

Lions Kill Zoo Staffer in Bangkok Attack

A zoo employee in the Ram Intra area of Bangkok was fatally attacked by a group of lions yesterday in an incident that lasted approximately 15 minutes. Witnesses, including tourists, attempted to intervene by honking car horns and shouting for help, but were unable to stop the animals.

The incident occurred when the staff member, identified as former surgeon Dr. Thawatchai Kanchanarin, exited a vehicle and was approached from behind by one lion. The lion grabbed him and dragged him to the ground before biting him, and within minutes, four additional lions joined the attack, inflicting severe injuries. Continued …

Safari World vows urgent safety review after zookeeper killed in lion attack

Safari World issued a statement following the death of a 58-year-old zookeeper who was attacked by a lion at the open zoo in Bangkok.

“In light of the recent accident involving a staff member in the lion zone, the employee sustained severe injuries and later passed away. The company expresses its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and will provide full support and assistance to them,” the statement read. Continued …

Urgent flood warning issued as Chao Phraya River reaches crisis level

Chai Nat province has issued an urgent warning after the Chao Phraya River rose to a critical level, with water north of the Chao Phraya Dam surging more than 0.35 meters following heavy rainfall.

The Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command has alerted residents in three riverside districts — Manorom (Tha Chanuan, Siladan, Wat Khok, Khung Samphao subdistricts), Wat Sing (Makham Thao, Wat Sing subdistricts), and Mueang Chainat (Thammamool, Hat Tha Sao, Khao Tha Phra, Tha Chai, Ban Kluai, Chainat subdistricts) — to prepare for possible flash floods. Continued … 

Monsoon mayhem looms with storms and floods in Thailand

Thailand faces heavy rain, flash flood risks, and rough seas as the monsoon continues to impact multiple regions, prompting warnings from officials. The active monsoon trough remains across the north and upper northeast, while moderate southwesterly winds persist over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf. Isolated heavy rainfall is expected across the upper regions.

Scattered thundershowers are expected on the east coast in the southern region, particularly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures range from 23 to 25 °C in the early hours to 31 to 34 °C later in the day. Winds will blow at 15 to 35 km/h. Continued …

Thailand blasted for weak laws as domestic violence surges

Campaigners are calling out Thailand’s weak domestic violence laws, accusing them of protecting abusers more than victims, and demanding urgent reform. Civil society groups are ramping up pressure on the new government to prioritize a long-delayed draft law that would strengthen protections for victims of domestic and sexual violence.

Yesterday, the Coalition Against Gender-Based Violence Thailand hosted a public forum to scrutinize the legal shortcomings in tackling gender-based violence. The event brought together activists, legal experts, and lawmakers to push for faster legislative progress. Continued …

Thais among top 10 global gold buyers

Thailand has emerged as one of the world’s top 10 gold buyers, with demand jumping 21% year-on-year to 20.7 tons in the first half of 2025, supported by expected US interest rate cuts, safe-haven demand, and a global de-dollarization trend, says YLG Bullion International.

Pawan Nawawattanasub, chief executive of the Bangkok-based gold trader, said global prices, which this week hit a record high of more than $3,670 an ounce, would remain firmly on an upward trajectory over the next 6-12 months. Continued …

PM Anutin reveals billions in assets, private jets, and antiques

PM Anutin Charnvirakul has disclosed assets amounting to 3.9 billion baht, which include three private jets, two speedboats, and a luxury property in Bangkok. Among his assets, the former construction magnate also listed 1.09 billion baht in cash and deposits spread across over 24 bank accounts.

The 58-year-old Bhumjaithai leader revealed his financial status to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) as part of a mandatory process for government officials, with the agency releasing the details publicly yesterday. Continued …

Thailand and US Begin Tariff Talks with ‘Flexible’ Approach

Thailand and the United States have commenced their first round of technical negotiations on trade tariffs, with a senior source from the Thai Ministry of Commerce revealing that the US has adopted a “flexible” and cooperative stance.

The discussions are highly detailed, involving multiple government agencies from both sides and focusing on the wording of more than one hundred articles. Continued …

US capital moves from China as Thai industrial estates expand 34,000 rai in three years

Amid rising US-China trade tensions, Thai industrial investment has surged, with new industrial estates expanding by 34,000 rai over the past three years. The trade friction between the United States and China intensified earlier this year, although some temporary tariff relief measures were introduced in mid-May. Last month, both countries agreed to extend the trade truce for another 90 days, until mid-November.

According to a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Shanghai, nearly half of US businesses — 47% — had shifted planned investments away from China to other regions over the past year, primarily to ASEAN countries. This represents the highest proportion recorded since AmCham Shanghai first conducted the survey. Continued …

Thailand’s FTA trade benefits hit Bt1.4 trillion in first half of 2025

Arada Fuangtong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade, revealed that during the first six months of 2025 (January-June), the value of Thailand’s trade benefits under free trade agreements (FTAs) continued to expand.

Total utilization reached US$44.79 billion (around Bt1.4 trillion), representing 79.6% of eligible FTA trade, up 10.2% from the same period last year. Continued …

European firms keen on Thailand

Thailand remains a key destination in Southeast Asia for European companies seeking to expand business operations to withstand ongoing global economic shocks and uncertainties, according to a recent survey by the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC).

ASEAN has emerged as “the region with the best economic opportunity for European businesses”, beating India and China for the third year running in the EU-Asean Business Sentiment Survey, published by the EU-ABC yesterday. Continued …

Hospitality industry sees flaws in proposed Hotel Act changes

The Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) has expressed concern about attempts to revise the Hotel Act, saying any changes must ensure that tourist safety will not be compromised and shoddy operations will face consequences.

The association does not say the 2004 Hotel Act has any loopholes, President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun said yesterday. The problem is ineffective law enforcement against operators that do not follow the rules, he said. Continued …

Sex tourism from the UK to Thailand spotlighted in BBC documentary series

A new BBC documentary series is turning heads in the UK as it exposes Thailand’s booming sex industry. The show pulls no punches, diving deep into the country’s thriving sex tourism trade — one that continues to lure British men in droves.

These encounters are more than casual transactions; they’ve given rise to a growing number of Anglo-Thai relationships. The phenomenon isn’t new. It began in the 1960s in Bangkok and Pattaya, but decades later, it’s still alive and kicking. Continued …

Chinese Tourist Dies After Jet Ski Incident off Koh Larn

A Chinese tourist has died and another survived after a jet ski incident off Koh Larn near Pattaya. The couple, who rented the craft from Tawaen Beach on Tuesday, failed to return it by the agreed time. Rescue teams launched a large-scale search and discovered the man alive in the early hours of yesterday, while his wife was later found dead.

Police were first alerted when the jet ski owner reported that the craft had not been brought back. Officials from Pattaya City Police, the Marine Department, tourist police, and Sawang Boriboon rescue units joined the overnight search. Boats and specialist teams were deployed across the waters surrounding Koh Larn. Continued …

Thai Airways to phase out its first class cabins

Thai Airways intends to phase out its first class cabins within the next two to three years as part of a strategic transformation aimed at enhancing its premium travel offerings and reclaiming market share.

Instead, the airline will prioritize upgrading its business class to a more luxurious standard, in line with global aviation trends. This decision follows Thai Airways’ successful financial restructuring and exit from its reorganization plan. Continued …

Khao Yai ranked Asia’s No.2 rural destination

Khao Yai has been ranked the second most popular rural destination in Asia in 2025 by online travel agency Agoda, reinforcing Thailand’s appeal on the global tourism stage.

The ranking, based on accommodation searches between Feb. 15 and Aug. 15, considered destinations in rural areas with fewer than 50,000 residents across eight Asian countries. Continued …

Luxury Travelers Are Flocking to Secluded Resorts in the Heart of Nature

In recent years, the travel landscape has undergone a major transformation. Today, travelers are seeking more than just typical vacations. They are looking for extraordinary, immersive experiences in the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring locations.

However, this desire for isolation is balanced with an equally strong craving for luxury, meaning comfort, world-class service, and top-tier amenities. It’s no longer just about escaping to secluded places; it’s about doing so in style and enjoying the finest services available. Continued …

Face masks: An environmental time bomb

Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, face masks have become an essential tool for personal protection. However, along with their widespread use, billions of discarded masks have accumulated in both landfills and waterways.

Scientists are now warning that used face masks are an “environmental time bomb” that are breaking down into “microplastics” and continuously releasing harmful chemicals. Continued …

  • Taiwanese Man Arrested for Call Center Money Laundering – Continued …
  • 2 Chinese and 11 Burmese arrested in Bangkok e-cigarettes factory raid – Continued …

Indonesian democracy on brink

The anti-government protests sweeping Indonesia over the past two weeks are not fleeting outbursts but the culmination of long-suppressed grievances against abuses of power, the erosion of constitutional norms, and the violation of basic human rights. The protesters are not seeking an apology or even sympathy from the president; they demand the chance to live a decent life in which their dignity and human rights are respected and upheld. Continued … 

Oracle chief Ellison challenges Musk for ‘world’s richest’ title

Billionaire Elon Musk is at risk of losing his title as the world’s wealthiest person to Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, whose software giant appears poised for massive AI riches through a major deal with OpenAI. Ellison, 81, amassed about $95 billion in additional wealth yesterday as Oracle shares skyrocketed after the nearly 50-year-old company forecast massive revenue growth thanks to large contracts that will dwarf current revenue. Continued …

NEW PAGE – Hua Hin Links

Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

climate change, covid, exports, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, medical tourism, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s nes-June 17

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Father’s Home Sufficiency Economy Expo/Rimlay Concert in Pranburi/Thailand–Cambodia Tensions/Spike in Covid-19/New cure for modern burnout/Weed Policy Backlash/Elephants driven off farmland/ECONOMY: Thai-US tariff talks/Thailand Eyes Gaming Giants/Dim prospects for SMEs/How High Could Oil Prices Soar/TOURISM: Chinese Tour Operators Enter ‘Hibernation Mode’/Tourism dip fuels stock drop/Opening/closure of national park attractions/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Common Thai-English mistakes/Thai herbs earn special status/Surin’s ancient Khmer temples/Phangnga has ‘green season’ pull/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thai climate capitalism/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Father’s Home Sufficiency Economy Expo in Hua Hin, June 18–22

Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is set to host the 2025 “Father’s Home” Sufficiency Economy Expo at Bluport Hua Hin Thursday through Sunday. The event aims to honor the legacy of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX), with a focus on his lifelong dedication to sustainable development and self-sufficiency.

The event is part of the province’s “Next Move Prachuap” policy and will feature a range of exhibitions, seminars, and activities under five main themes, all centered around the philosophy of the sufficiency economy. Continued …

Rimlay Concert in Pranburi June 21

Thai folk-rock legends are set to take the stage once again at the “Rimlay Concert #3,” a beachfront music festival scheduled to be held on Saturday at Maharaj Grounds in Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi District.

This year’s concert features a lineup of iconic and contemporary Thai artists, including Carabao, Pongthep Kradonchamnan, Pongsit Kamphee, Tom Dundee, Hammer, Hugo, Labanoon, and Lamyai Hai Thongkham. Organizers expect around 20,000 people to attend the event, which is anticipated to generate up to 50 million baht in local economic activity. Continued …

Thailand–Cambodia Tensions May Shutter Key Checkpoints, Slash Trade by 60%

A potential closure of five vital border checkpoints between Thailand and Cambodia could result in monumental financial losses. The Customs Department estimates that closing these gates could impact trade worth 174.53 billion baht.

Chief among the trade crossings at risk is the Aranyaprathet checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province, which handled over 110 billion baht of commerce with Cambodia last year. The other checkpoints, Khlong Yai in Trat province, Ban Laem in Chanthaburi province, Chong Chom in Surin province, and Chong Sangam in Si Sa Ket province, collectively accounted for tens of billions more. Continued … 

Spike in Covid-19 cases sparks concerns

A sharp rise in Covid-19 cases has been reported nationwide over the past week, with 76,161 new infections and 40 additional deaths, sparking renewed concerns over the ongoing outbreak.

According to the Department of Disease Control (DDC), the data covers the period from May 24 to June 14. The new cases bring the cumulative total of infections since Jan. 1 to 476,584. he latest fatalities bring the national death toll for the year to 154. Continued … 

Why wellness retreats are the new cure for modern burnout

You wake up tired, reach for your phone, and start scrolling before you’ve even released a yawn. Sounds familiar? Instant connectivity, social platforms, and an endless stream of content have become fixtures of modern life.

What’s easy to forget is how recent, and disruptive, this shift has been. We’ve adapted quickly, using these tools to organize, optimize, and occupy nearly every waking hour. But at what cost? Continued … 

Weed Policy Backlash: Calls to Revamp Thai Cannabis Regulations

Three years into Thailand’s cannabis legalization journey, alarms are sounding from health experts and civil society groups about its impact on public health and the lack of robust regulations. A public forum, named “Three Years of Cannabis Legalization: What Has Thai Society Gained?”, convened health groups and academics to scrutinize the effects of this policy shift.

Assoc. Prof. Rasmon Kalayasiri of the Center for Addiction Studies pointed out that while cannabis offers medical advantages for conditions such as palliative care and chemotherapy-related nausea, the liberalization has led to unintended issues. Continued …

Park rangers drive large herd of elephants off farmland

Rangers from Thap Lan National Park successfully drove a large herd of wild elephants away from village farms and back into the forest late last night. The herd, about 50-strong, was intent on raiding the crops of villages near the park boundary.

Rangers from Thap Lan’s zone 4, with volunteers from the Saeng Sang Elephant Conservation Club, responded to reports from local leaders that a large herd of elephants was advancing on their farms. Continued … 

Thai-US tariff talks making headway

The Commerce Minister said the reciprocal tariff talks with the U.S. appear to be making good progress and he expected both sides to agree on tariffs as low as 10%.

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan expected the talks would go well, as Thai and U.S. officials have held negotiations via video conference and Thailand has submitted a proposal aimed at enhancing economic collaboration between the two countries. Continued …

Thailand Eyes Gaming Giants: Billions on the Table for Entertainment Hub

From the dazzling lights of Las Vegas to the bustling resorts of Macau and Singapore, the concept of the integrated entertainment complex is now firmly in Thailand’s sights.

This high-stakes gamble, potentially reshaping the nation’s economic and tourism landscape, has already attracted the attention of leading global conglomerates, poised to commit hundreds of billions of baht in pursuit of this golden opportunity. Continued …

Dim prospects for SMEs in second half

Business prospects for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are likely to remain very limited in the second half, attributed to domestic and global economic challenges, notably the impact of the Israel-Iran conflict, says the Federation of Thai SMEs.

Oil prices are rising since Israel launched air strikes on Tehran, targeting areas where nuclear weapon programs are allegedly operated. The attacks caused Iran to retaliate, which has lead to concerns over fuel transport in the oil-rich region, according to media reports. Continued …

How High Could Oil Prices Soar Amid Escalating Israel-Iran Conflict?

The deepening tensions between Israel and Iran have rattled global energy markets, with crude oil prices reflecting heightened uncertainty. Given the geopolitical stakes, analysts warn that the conflict could drive oil prices to historic levels, affecting economies worldwide — including Thailand.

Video

The Middle East accounts for a significant share of global oil production, and any disruption in Iran, Saudi Arabia, or Iraq could send prices soaring. Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz further amplifies risks, as nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes through this critical chokepoint. If military escalation leads to restricted tanker movement, global oil supplies will suffer severe shocks. Continued … 

Chinese Tour Operators Enter ‘Hibernation Mode’ as Thailand’s Tourism Market Awaits Recovery

Thailand’s tourism industry is grappling with a significant downturn in Chinese visitors, with many tour operators entering what industry leaders describe as “hibernation mode” as they await a market recovery expected by 2026.

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has warned that Chinese tourist arrivals this year will reach only 5 million people, with the majority coming for business rather than leisure purposes. True tourist groups are estimated to represent just 20% of arrivals, or approximately 1 million visitors. Continued …

Tourism dip fuels worst stock drop in Asia at Thai airport firm

Thailand’s post-Covid flood of tourists has turned into more of a trickle, adding to concerns for Airports of Thailand (AoT) as it grapples with shrinking duty-free sales without a full-time chief executive officer.

Its shares have more than halved in 2025, notching the steepest loss among any of the world’s airport operators worth at least $100 million, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The tumble wiped out about 460.7 billion baht ($14.2 billion) of AoT’s market capitalization and made the stock the biggest loser on the MSCI Asia Pacific Index. Continued …

Annual seasonal opening/closure of national park system attractions

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has advised tourists on the opening/closed status of Thailand’s national parks, to ensure they can best enjoy the picturesque natural beauty and abundant flora and fauna on offer around the country.

This is normal practice, as Thailand’s national park system closes several attractions every year for a certain period, depending on weather and park conditions. Dates are varied, and the closure is often due to extreme weather, especially during the rainy months, that may create unsafe conditions and allows for some ecological recovery time. Continued …

Common Thai-English mistakes you’ve probably heard

In Thailand, mixing Thai and English, or “Tinglish”, has become a common part of daily conversations. While it’s great to see how the two languages blend together, sometimes, the result doesn’t always match what native English speakers would say.

If you’ve spent any time in Thailand, you’ve likely heard some fun (and sometimes confusing) phrases that may not be what you’d expect. Let’s dive into some of the most common Thai-English mistakes that Thais creatively use in everyday conversations. Continued …

Phlai

3 Thai herbs earn special status

Three of Thailand’s most common medicinal herbs – phlai, black ginger and kratom – have been listed as the herbs of the year for 2025 by the National Herbal Medicines Policy Committee.

The listing will see herbs like phlai being promoted for export, as well as in the hospitality sector, such as in spas and wellness centers, and among athletes. An “herb of the year” campaign will be launched to further encourage their use, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin said. Continued …

Sacred Stones and Silent Gods: A journey through Surin’s ancient Khmer temples

As tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border ease, the timeworn temples of Surin Province —l ong overshadowed by Cambodia’s majestic Angkor — are stepping back into the light.

The international spotlight may have been drawn by political disputes, but for travelers, this moment has revived interest in Surin’s Khmer sanctuaries: stone-built remnants of a civilization that once ruled much of mainland Southeast Asia. Continued …

Phangnga has ‘green season’ pull

Phangnga is rolling out new initiatives to attract visitors during the green season, traditionally seen as the low travel period due to the rainy weather. Director-General of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)’s Phangnga office, Uthit Limsakul, said international tourists are still visiting the province despite the rain.

Most come from Germany, followed by other European countries, including the UK, Italy and Russia, and Oceania. Among domestic tourists, visitors mainly come from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Songkhla, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Continued …

Thai climate capitalism takes root

Thailand’s green tech startups are emerging, in line with the country’s ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets and the global momentum toward environmental, social, and governance standards. However, some obstacles need to be addressed for these startups to thrive.

In 2024, Thailand attracted US$355 million in private green investments, ranging from solar, wind and green cement to sustainable fuels and biomass, according to a research paper prepared by Bain & Co. Southeast Asia could unlock $38 billion in economic gains from the green transition by 2030, according to the study. Continued …

  • Drunk Foreigner’s Wild Rampage Shocks Chiang Khan Tourists – Continued …
  • Tuk-Tuk Driver Shocked as Russian Tourists Engage in Sexual Act During Ride – Continued …
  • Three Chinese Nationals Arrested in Chiang Mai for Running Online Gambling Operation – Continued … 

Too fit to commit! Brit beauty queen says blokes can’t handle her

A British beauty queen says she’s had it with dating because British blokes are too scared to ask her out. Harriotte Lane from Newcastle, has just been crowned Miss Grand United Kingdom and is set to jet off to Bangkok to compete in Miss Grand International in October but says life in the fast lane has left her flying solo. Continued …

  • Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

    (We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

    For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

    Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

    Bus Tickets 

    New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

    Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

    (We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

    Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

    Hua Hin train schedule

    To book online

    Van/minibus service at Market Village

    Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

    • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
    • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
    • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
    • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
    • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

    The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

     

    90-day online reporting

    Emergency hotline numbers:

            • Emergency hotline – 191
            • Emergency medical services – 1554
            • Water accident – 1196
            • Motorway hotline – 1586
            • Emergency medical – 1669
            • Highway police – 1193
            • Tourist police – 1155
            • Bus ticket – 1490
            • Department of Highways – 1586
            • State Railway – 1590

     

bangkok, covid, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-June 16

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Hua Hin Food Festival/Hard Rock Cafe coming/Bright Dawn Foundation celebrates/Hua Hin Taekwondo Championship/Awareness of insect-borne diseases/Maraleina crowned champions/Crackdown on Illegal Expat Workers/Thailand Battles Covid Surge/Thailand to Regulate Ride-Hailing Apps/What expats save on healthcare/Border arbitration is impossible/Strong rebuke of Cambodia/Dutch Embassy Sale/ECONOMY: Restaurant sector faces crisis/Stimulus requests exceed 400 billion/TOURISM: Diversify tourist markets/Pattaya’s new Walking Street/Has Pattaya tourism lost its way?/Foreign tourists in Pattaya fed up/Bangkok rises as conference destination/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Understanding Kreng Jai/Building a life on Koh Samui/CLIMATE THAILAND: Toxic habit of burning garbage/I tried solar panels for 9 months/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin Food Festival to return in August

Hua Hin City Municipality is moving forward with plans to host this year’s Hua Hin Food Festival, with the event set to return in August. A preparatory meeting was held last week to plan the 2025 edition of the popular annual festival, which draws large crowds eager to sample a diverse selection of culinary offerings.

For this year’s festival, organisers are planning to stage the event at Hua Don Beach. The exact dates are still being finalized. The festival will feature a wide range of activities and highlight local cuisine from across Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Continued …

Hard Rock Cafe coming to Hua Hin Hilton

International restaurant and entertainment brand Hard Rock Cafe is preparing to open a new location at the Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa. A memorabilia retail store, part of the new venue, is now open to the public.

The bar and restaurant are expected to begin operations next month, although no official launch date has been announced. The opening at Hilton Hua Hin marks the brand’s return to the resort town, where it had previously operated a location on Soi Bintabaht before closing several years ago. Continued …

Bright Dawn Foundation celebrates 15 years in Hua Hin

The Bright Dawn Foundation has commemorated its 15th anniversary, celebrating a remarkable journey of enhancing the lives of low-income Thai children through dedicated healthcare and educational support in the Hua Hin area.

Since its inception in 2010, the foundation has grown from supporting a single school to empowering over 700 children across five primary schools in the Hua Hin region, delivering tangible improvements in health, education, and community well-being. Continued …

5th Hua Hin Taekwondo Championship opens at Market Village

Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul on Saturday presided over the opening ceremony of the 5th Hua Hin Taekwondo Championship, held at the third-floor sports arena of Market Village Hua Hin.

The event was organized by Orathai Khemnak, president of the Prachuap Khiri Khan Taekwondo Sports Club. It brought together around 1,000 male and female athletes from 22 clubs across the country to compete in various categories. Continued …

Hua Hin launches campaign to raise awareness of insect-borne diseases

Hua Hin City Municipality has launched a public health campaign to raise awareness of insect-borne diseases and encourage preventative action among local residents. The campaign was officially launched Friday at the Hua Hin Municipal Demonstration School.

The campaign, organized by the Public Health and Environment Division, is aimed at promoting greater public understanding of diseases transmitted by insects, such as dengue fever, and at encouraging sustained prevention and control measures. Officials said the initiative is expected to contribute to a reduction in infections and deaths, while building stronger community-level cooperation. Continued …

Maraleina crowned champions at Copa Tailandesa in Hua Hin

After a week of competitive youth football, Maraleina has been crowned champion of Copa Tailandesa 2025, following the conclusion of the tournament yesterday at Arena Hua Hin.

Now in its second year, the international youth football competition brought together five teams who competed over five days in morning fixtures open to the public, drawing strong support from local spectators and visiting fans. Continued …

Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Expat Workers

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has unleashed a sweeping crackdown on expatriates occupying jobs reserved for Thai citizens. Over the last nine months, 4,400 arrests have been made, as the government stamps down on illegal foreign employment, aiming to safeguard jobs for domestic workers.

Labor Ministry spokesperson Phumphat Muanchan revealed that the initiative targets offenders in “List-1” occupations, such as street vending, barbering, and traditional Thai massage, which are strictly off-limits to expats. Of the thousands apprehended, only 417 have faced charges. Continued …

Thailand Battles Covid Surge with 12,000 Cases in a Single Day

Thailand is in the grip of a new Covid-19 wave as over 12,000 people tested positive on Friday, as confirmed by the Department of Disease Control. This increase includes three fatalities, underscoring the significant health challenges the country faces.

Authorities announced on Saturday morning that the precise tally reached 12,181, rocketing the total confirmed cases to 471,781. The fresh data also raised the nation’s death toll to 151. Continued …

Thailand to Regulate Ride-Hailing Apps for Fairer Competition

In a significant shift for ride-hailing services, Thailand’s Department of Land Transport (DLT) is acting swiftly to bring digital platforms like Grab under new regulations. Within the next 90 days, app-based taxi and motorbike operators are to register under a government system, addressing long-standing fairness concerns compared to traditional taxis.

This is part of a pathway toward a level playing field, ensuring app-based taxis comply with the standards set forth by the Transport Ministry. DLT Director-general Jirut Wisanjit confirmed this development following a draft from the Electronic Transactions Commission. It sets a mandate for all ride-hailing vehicles to legally register and meet DLT service application standards. Continued …

Thailand vs. the West: What expats save on healthcare each year

Healthcare in Thailand is much cheaper than in Western countries, making it a great choice for expatriates looking for affordable medical care. Both public and private healthcare options offer high-quality services, with savings of up to 80% on procedures like cardiac surgery and diagnostic imaging. Routine medical care is also much cheaper, often costing 50%-75% less.

Western healthcare systems are often expensive, with high premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and long waiting times, making healthcare unaffordable for many. Thailand offers affordable, high-quality healthcare, with major savings compared to Western countries for treatments like surgeries, IVF, and diagnostic imaging. Continued …

International border arbitration is impossible for Thailand

The prime ministers of Thailand and Cambodia are categorical not to cede one inch of their territory. Saturday saw the bilateral meeting of the Joint Boundary Commission but that won’t consider the meaty issues of borders in four contested areas, ownership of a clutch of temples or even the recent closure of a land crossing by the Cambodian side.

If the two ASEAN partners can’t solve their territorial issues alone – a foregone conclusion, for sure – Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn will lead a team to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Holland for “a final resolution”. Continued …

Thailand breaks silence with strong rebuke of Cambodia on border disputes

Thailand has been deeply disappointed by Cambodia’s continued refusal to cooperate in resolving border tensions, particularly its decision to seek intervention from the World Court regarding four disputed sites.

The Thai Foreign Ministry said the move clearly reflected a lack of genuine determination to resolve sensitive issues through existing bilateral mechanisms and in the spirit of good neighbors. Continued … 

Dutch Embassy Sale Sparks Debate in Bangkok

The Dutch Association in Thailand is taking action against a plan to sell the Dutch Embassy in Bangkok. The embassy, located at 206 Wireless Road, faces potential sale to local developers as part of a Dutch government cost-cutting initiative. Willem Pentermann, chairman of the association, discovered the plan from De Telegraaf, a Dutch newspaper.

Negotiations are reportedly in progress concerning the sale of the embassy’s property, which is owned by the Dutch government and managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “This is part of a broader government effort to reduce costs, and the ministry’s budget will see significant cuts,” said Willem Pentermann, presdient of the association. Continued …

Thailand’s estaurant sector faces ‘boiling frog’ crisis lasting up to 3 years

Paisarn Aowsathaporn, senior executive vice president and head of food business (Thailand) at Thai Beverage Public Co. — one of the country’s four leading restaurant operators, with brands such as Shabushi, KFC, Hyde & Seek, and Food Street — said the company is set to reach 888 outlets by the end of this year. He noted that the overall food and beverage industry in Thailand, across all segments, is valued at nearly 700 billion baht and continues to expand in line with economic trends.

However, the outlook for 2025 points to a slowdown. According to a report by the Department of Internal Trade, around 3,000 restaurants closed during the first quarter of the year. At the same time, a significant number of new establishments also opened, reflecting the natural business cycle of entries and exits in the sector. Continued …

157-billion-baht stimulus requests exceed 400 billion baht

While the government’s economic stimulus budget of 157 billion baht is scheduled for final approval later this month, the value of funding requests received from various ministries exceeds 400 billion baht.

The government is exercising extra caution to ensure the proposed projects comply with its frameworks, amid concerns over transparency and the intended economic impact, as there are fears that some projects could be used to pave the way for an election campaign or to benefit specific groups. Continued …

Thailand has no choice but to diversify tourist markets, such as Europe and the Middle East

With more than 15.5 million international arrivals recorded between Jan. 1 and June 9, Thailand’s tourism sector is experiencing a strong rebound — but not without challenges. The latest figures from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) show impressive double-digit growth from Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania, but a noticeable shift away from its once-dominant reliance on Chinese arrivals.

Malaysia has now overtaken China as the top source of foreign tourists during the recent green season period (June 1–9), with arrivals from the southern neighbor up 13.2% year-on-year. Meanwhile, European markets such as Germany (up 71%), Italy (+28%), and Switzerland (+24%) have surged forward, alongside Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman — all posting gains above 30%. Continued …

Pattaya’s new Walking Street: Critics say, ‘Might as well call it Indian Street now’

The city of Pattaya has begun dismantling the old sign and installing a new LED-lit gateway at the entrance to its iconic Walking Street, temporarily closing access for the long-planned upgrade. While city officials tout it as a move toward modernization, not everyone is impressed.

As the fresh sign flickered to life in dazzling colors, the first reaction was exactly what authorities hoped for — crowds of tourists snapping photos beneath the bright new archway. But the second reaction was far less flattering: heavy traffic congestion and a flood of sarcastic commentary from foreign residents and visitors. Continued …

Has Pattaya tourism lost its way?

Pattaya, once the beating heart of Thailand’s tourism industry, now feels like a ghost town to many of its most loyal residents — its long-term foreign visitors. As this year’s low season hits new depths, foreign retirees, digital nomads, and working-age Westerners are asking a pointed question: If City Hall won’t listen to the people who live here year-round, who exactly is Pattaya listening to?

According to several long-term residents, the city’s attempts to chase mass tourism numbers — particularly from short-term markets like China and India — have come at the cost of alienating those who gave Pattaya its original international appeal. Continued … 

Foreign tourists in Pattaya fed up being asked to buy something every five minutes

Pattaya Beach, once celebrated for its laid-back charm and natural beauty, is increasingly being described by long-term visitors as overrun with commercial activity. Food stalls, beach chairs, water sports vendors, street performers, hawkers, and even blaring music from nearby bars now compete for attention — and space. For some tourists, especially those seeking quiet relaxation by the sea, the experience can feel chaotic rather than calming.

Foreign visitors, especially older travelers and long-term stayers, often come to Pattaya in search of serenity — a place to walk, read, and take in the sea breeze. But many complain that entire sections of the beach are now dominated by commercial operators who rent chairs, sell goods, or push loud activities like jet skis and banana boats. Continued …

Bangkok rises to 7th place globally as top international conference destination

Bangkok has made global headlines by climbing to 7th place in the world rankings for international conference destinations, according to the latest 2024 report by the International Congress and Convention Assn. (ICCA), released at IMEX Frankfurt 2025 in Germany.

This marks a significant leap from 15th place in 2023 and reflects Thailand’s growing potential and readiness to be a true global hub for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). Continued …

Understanding Kreng Jai: The hidden heart of Thai politeness

Thailand is famously known as the “Land of Smiles.” Visitors often describe Thais as kind and polite. But beneath that warm exterior lies a deeply rooted cultural value: kreng jai.

There’s no perfect English equivalent for kreng jai, but it loosely translates to a mix of consideration, deference, and reluctance to impose. It’s more than just being polite — it’s a mindset, a way of thinking that reflects a desire not to inconvenience or embarrass others. Continued …

Starting over in paradise: Building a life on Koh Samui

On this sun-drenched tropical island, time moves more slowly — and that’s exactly what many people were looking for when they chose to make it home. I had just wrapped up an interview with a millennial who left his life in the U.S. Behind to become a Muay Thai fighter. Next, I was heading off to speak with the French owner of a boutique hotel.

Three days into my reporting trip, I was starting to see why so many people are drawn to Koh Samui, the Thai island that’s recently been thrust into the global spotlight thanks to HBO’s hit series “The White Lotus.” Long before the show put it on the radar of TV audiences, Samui had already been quietly attracting people in search of something different: an unhurried pace of life, a lower cost of living, and the promise of a fresh start far from home. Continued … 

Resident dismayed over neighbors’ toxic habit of burning garbage

Something that seems obvious but is incredibly easy to take for granted is the fact that we live in a society. Our actions do not occur in a vacuum — what we do affects those around us, and we should live our lives knowing that our choices may impact others.

So, when people who obey that social contract come into contact with those who have forgotten it, frustration is only natural. As an example, several photos show a neighbor burning their trash, to the point where the air became almost unbreathable. Continued …

I tried solar panels for 9 months

Solar panel performance update nine months after installation. This video covers energy production, expenses, and savings from the solar panel system. Video …

‘No Kings’ Protests Decry Trump Across the US

The grand military parade that U.S. President Donald Trump had been wanting for years barreled down Constitution Avenue on Saturday with tanks, troops and a 21-gun salute, playing out against a counterpoint of protests around the country by those who decried the U.S. leader as a dictator and would-be king. Continued …

Trump administration weighs adding 36 countries to travel ban

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is considering significantly expanding its travel restrictions by potentially banning citizens of 36 additional countries from entering the United States, according to an internal State Department cable. Continued …

UK appoints Blaise Metreweli first woman head of MI6 spy service

The UK government has appointed Blaise Metreweli as the first-ever woman to head its MI6 spy service as the country faces “threats on an unprecedented scale”, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced yesterday. The MI6 Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) achieved global fame through Ian Fleming’s fictional agent James Bond. Continued …

  • Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

    (We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

    For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

    Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

    Bus Tickets 

    New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

    Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

    (We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

    Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

    Hua Hin train schedule

    To book online

    Van/minibus service at Market Village

    Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

    • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
    • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
    • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
    • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
    • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

    The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

     

    90-day online reporting

    Emergency hotline numbers:

            • Emergency hotline – 191
            • Emergency medical services – 1554
            • Water accident – 1196
            • Motorway hotline – 1586
            • Emergency medical – 1669
            • Highway police – 1193
            • Tourist police – 1155
            • Bus ticket – 1490
            • Department of Highways – 1586
            • State Railway – 1590

     

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

Friday’s news-June 13

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Hua Hin to tackle flooding/13-Vehicle Pile-Up/Completion of VEHHA Hua Hin/439,527 total Covid cases/Heavy rains and strong winds/Kingpin arrested over building collapse/Phuket’s stink crisis/Rocket crashes into school/ECONOMY: Consumer Confidence Plunges/Is growth engine stalling?/Casino Operator Proposes 5% Gaming Cap/Land Prices Surge for EEC Project/Bangkok’s ‘Farmer Market’ Scheme/Elevating the Cannabis Experience/TOURISM: Tourism slump hammers restaurants/Don’t Ignore Red Flags/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Elephant camps reinvent themselves/Ban Lat Buffalo Cart Race/Eat and Drink in Bangkok/CLIMATE THAILAND: Mutant fish found/Businesses improving air quality/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Secret Door Reveals Hidden Chinese Workers/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin to tackle flooding, water-management issues

Hua Hin City Municipality is stepping up efforts to improve water management in the city, with plans to establish a dedicated working group aimed at addressing persistent flooding issues.

At a meeting Wednesday at the Hua Hin City Municipality office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Gov. Sithichai Sawatsansae and Royol Chitradon, director and secretary-general of the Hydro and Agro Informatics Institute Foundation under Royal Patronage, led discussions on how to develop more systematic approaches to water management in Hua Hin. Continued …

Tour Bus Involved in 13-Vehicle Pile-Up on Phetkasem Road in Prachuap Khiri Khan

A multi-vehicle collision involving 13 vehicles occurred on Phetkasem Road in Prachuap Khiri Khan province yesterday afternoon, leaving three people injured and causing traffic congestion stretching over three kilometers.

On arrival at the scene, authorities found multiple vehicles, including pick-up trucks, saloon cars, a six-wheeler, and a tour bus, had collided in a chain reaction due to slippery road conditions. The crash initially involved a saloon car and a pick-up truck colliding, with the tour bus then plowing into the rear of the vehicles ahead. Continued …

Completion of VEHHA Hua Hin announced

Proud Real Estate Public Co. has announced the completion of its “VEHHA Hua Hin,” the tallest Seaview resort-style condominium in Hua Hin. The project offers a prime location in the heart of Hua Hin’s largest mixed-use area, just 700 meters from the beach, as well as unobstructed panoramic views of the ocean and sky. Units come fully furnished in various layouts suitable for both short and long-term stays, and the project boasts over 2,700 square meters of resort-style facilities. Continued …

Thailand records 439,527 total Covid cases in 2025

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) reported the Covid-19 situation on Wednesday, stating that Bangkok continues to have the highest number of daily cases, with the nationwide total reaching 439,527 confirmed cases for the year.

On Wednesday, 7,527 new cases were reported, including 7,164 outpatients and 363 hospitalized patients. Additionally, 6 new deaths were reported, bringing the total number of fatalities since the beginning of the year to 130. Continued …

Heavy rains and strong winds across Thailand

The Thai Meteorological Department announced today that a monsoon trough is currently lying across the north and upper northeast of Thailand, while a strong southwest monsoon prevails over the Andaman Sea, the south, and the Gulf of Thailand. This weather pattern is expected to bring isolated very heavy rains to the northeast and east, and isolated heavy rains to the north and south (west coast) regions.

South (east coast): Isolated thundershowers mostly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon and Surat Thani; minimum 23-27°C, maximum 31-33°C; waves 1-2 meters high and above 2 meters high in thundershowers. Continued …

China Railway Company Kingpin arrested over March 28 building collapse

A Chinese businessman believed to be a central figure in the Chatuchak building disaster has surrendered to police in Bangkok. He was later taken to the prosecutor’s office and is expected to appear before the Criminal Court.

His arrest comes as Bangkok Remand Prison now holds dozens of individuals linked to the tragedy. Many of them are prominent businessmen and professionals from the engineering sector. Meanwhile, police have indicated that further arrests may follow as the investigation deepens. Continued …

Phuket’s stink crisis: Landfill odors worsen amid rainy season

Phuket’s bustling streets are getting a whiff of something far less pleasant, as the city grapples with an intensifying odor crisis. The stink emanating from the Phuket Waste Disposal Center at Saphan Hin has reached unbearable levels, especially as the rainy season worsens conditions at the already overcrowded landfill.

With more than 1,200 tons of rubbish arriving at the site each day, the persistent wet conditions have made the situation even worse. The foul smell is now causing major concern among both residents and tourists. Continued …

Roi Et rocket crashes into school as festival chaos erupts

A lively rocket festival turned into a terrifying ordeal after a massive homemade rocket crashed through the roof of a school in the northeastern province of Yasothon, narrowly missing teachers during a lesson.

On Wednesday, a 6-inch wide, 4-meter-long rocket, launched as part of the annual Bun Bang Fai Festival in Roi Et province, came hurtling through the ceiling of Ban Khui Tap Tao School in Khun Ngern subdistrict, Mueang district. The missile smashed through the classroom floor, lodging over 30 centimeters into the ground. Smoke filled the air, but miraculously, no injuries were reported. Continued … 

Thailand’s Consumer Confidence Plunges to 27-Month Low

Consumer confidence in Thailand has tumbled to a 27-month low, sparking fears of an impending recession as the kingdom grapples with concerns over protectionist trade policies and economic stagnation.

The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) fell from 55.4 in April to 54.2 in May — its fourth consecutive monthly decline — according to a nationwide survey of 2,242 individuals conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Continued …

Is Thailand’s growth engine stalling?

Thailand’s economic growth is losing momentum as its key sectors — tourism, exports, and manufacturing — face significant challenges. Last week, the World Bank revised its 2025 GDP growth forecast for Thailand, lowering it by 1.1% to a modest 1.8%, attributing the downgrade to weaker economic conditions and global uncertainties.

The World Bank’s Global Economic Prospects highlights that global uncertainties are set to impact Thailand’s economic growth, mirroring challenges faced by other emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs). Continued …

Casino Operator Proposes 5% Gaming Cap for Thailand Entertainment Complexes

A senior executive from Galaxy Resorts has called for gaming areas within Thailand’s proposed entertainment complexes to be limited to just 5% of total floor space, as the company seeks to address public concerns, while highlighting the broader economic benefits of such developments.

Kevin Clayton, chief executive of Galaxy Resorts Thailand, made the proposal during an interview with Thai media, arguing that even with such a small footprint, casinos could generate up to 80% of revenue to subsidize hotels, restaurants, retail outlets, and other non-gaming attractions. Continued …

Land Prices Surge Amid Launch of “EEC New City” Mega Project

Land prices in the Huai Yai–Pattaya corridor are skyrocketing following the full-scale launch of Thailand’s ambitious “EEC New City” project. Spearheaded by the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee (EECO), the 14,619-rai development in Huai Yai subdistrict, Chonburi, is attracting a frenzy of real estate activity.

With an investment value exceeding 1.34 trillion baht, the government aims to create a “second Bangkok”, a hub for business, innovation and urban expansion. The state has already begun the process of land expropriation and compensation, while signing a strategic cooperation agreement with the Sports Authority of Thailand to develop a new sports complex in the area. Continued …

Bangkok Unveils ‘Farmer Market’ Scheme for Fresh, Local Produce

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has officially launched its “Farmer Market” initiative, a new network of direct-to-consumer markets designed to bring high-quality, fresh agricultural produce from various districts across the capital straight to city residents. The scheme aims to offer convenient access to wholesome food while bolstering local economies.

In an era of growing health consciousness and increasing demand for safe food, direct access to fresh produce from its source is paramount. Responding to this need, the BMA is championing the Bangkok Farmer Market, enabling Bangkokians to easily acquire premium products from local communities. Continued …

Elevating the Cannabis Experience with Responsibility and Vision

As Thailand continues to refine its approach to cannabis regulation, a new generation of dispensaries is emerging, those that prioritize education, safety, and accessibility alongside quality products. Leading this wave is Weeden, a Phuket-based cannabis chain that has quickly become one of the most recognizable and trusted names in the sector.

With 26 branches and counting, Weeden has established itself as the largest cannabis dispensary chain in Thailand. But its story is about more than just scale. It’s about building a framework for responsible cannabis access in a changing legal and cultural landscape. Continued …

Tourism slump hammers restaurants

Every type of eatery is struggling this year as the economy and tourism slow, says renowned Thai chef and restaurateur Thitid Tassanakajohn, also known as Chef Ton. Thitid, the owner of several restaurants including the Michelin-starred Le Du, said the Thai restaurant industry is grappling with multiple challenges.

The decline in tourism, especially Chinese visitors, which he dubbed significant spenders in the restaurant sector, has had a visible impact, he said. Areas once bustling with tourists, such as around the Grand Palace in Bangkok, have seen a noticeable drop in foreign visitors, said Thitid. Continued …

Phuket Warns Tourists Not to Ignore Red Flags After Fatal Drownings

Local Phuket authorities are warning tourists during the current monsoon season that waves in the Andaman Sea are unpredictable, urging visitors not to defy red flag warnings and enter the water, as several tragic incidents have already occurred.

Tourist drowning incidents caused by being swept away by waves occurred around the same time on June 11. The first victim was a 41-year-old Kazakhstani male tourist who drowned and lost consciousness at Kata Beach. Rescue teams attempted CPR before transporting the patient to Chalong Hospital, but he ultimately died. Continued …

Thai elephant camps reinvent themselves to survive

Thailand’s renowned elephant camps are battling to survive, as the country’s economic downturn and dwindling tourist numbers threaten their very existence. These iconic attractions, particularly concentrated in Chiang Mai province, are being forced to dramatically reinvent themselves to keep both elephants and staff alive.

Mae Taeng Elephant Park, one of the region’s most established camps, exemplifies the struggle facing the industry. The facility has responded by expanding its educational arm, “Hug Elephant,” which has been operating for a decade. Continued …

Phetchaburi’s Ban Lat Buffalo Cart Race

Ban Lat district in the central province of Phetchaburi hosted its 108th Buffalo Cart Race, showcasing local culture, and is the only one of its kind in Thailand. Video …

This vast cauldron of soup has been simmering for half a century.

11 Essential Places to Eat and Drink in Bangkok

Sure, Bangkok’s gilded temples will leave a lasting impression, but the best way to get to know the Thai capital is through your stomach. In this high-octane city, eating is a national sport, a dawn-to-way-after-dusk pastime that has shaped its infrastructure throughout the centuries.

Major roads and neighborhoods have evolved around wet markets and street food hubs; modern food courts and fine-dining restaurants now take over prime real estate. Poke your head down any random soi (alleyway), and you’re almost guaranteed to find a sidewalk vendor slinging skewers of grilled meat, noodle soup, or fiery som tum (papaya salad). Continued …

Mutant fish found in the Mekong River

A growing contamination crisis is threatening the lifeblood of northern Thailand after another mutant pla kae fish was pulled from the Mekong River, the latest in a string of blighted catches leaving fishermen broke, rivers poisoned, and locals fearing for their food supply.

The Rivers for Life Assn., monitoring the alarming surge in sick fish across the region, confirmed on June 10 that the infected species was found in Chiang Rai province. The fish, riddled with blisters, is one of many showing signs of disease in the Kok, Mekong, Sai and Ruak rivers, sparking fears that heavy metal pollution is to blame. Continued … 

How businesses help improve Thailand’s air quality

Thailand’s chronic air pollution continues to worsen and is destroying people’s health. Mitigating the negative impacts of this problem requires collaboration across boundaries.

With delays to the long-awaited Clean Air Bill, businesses, including small-and-medium enterprises, are taking whatever steps they can to help improve the quality of the air we breathe. Continued …

Secret Door Behind Filing Cabinet Reveals Hidden Chinese Workers in Rayong Factory Raid

In a workplace inspection that unfolded like a scene from a spy film, authorities uncovered a hidden room behind a filing cabinet at a factory in Rayong province, revealing 16 Chinese nationals quietly hiding from law enforcement.

The raid, which took place on Wednesday at an industrial facility in Nikhom Phatthana district, exposed suspected illegal labor activity and led to the detention of 22 individuals. Continued …

  • Chinese Man Arrested at Don Mueang Airport for Alleged Bt200 Million Fraud – Continued …

Apparent sole survivor of Air India crash walks away from wreckage

Video …

A near-miracle in seat 11A. There may be no other way to characterize the fate of Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national who appears to be the sole survivor of Air India flight 171, which crashed yesterday with 242 passengers and crew aboard. Continued …

Israel launches strikes against Iran

Israel launched a military operation yesterday against Iran targeting Tehran’s nuclear program, according to the Israeli government. Israel’s defense minister, Israel Katz, described the move as a “preemptive strike” in a statement and warned that Israel anticipates “a missile and drone attack” in response. The Israeli Defense Force said the strikes were conducted by “dozens” of aircraft. Continued …

More than 55,000 Palestinians Have Been Killed in the Israel-Hamas War

The Palestinian death toll from the 20-month Israel-Hamas war passed 55,000, the Gaza Health Ministry said Wednesday, and hospitals said at least 21 people were killed while on their way to aid distribution sites. The circumstances of the deaths reported near the sites were not immediately clear. The Israeli army said Wednesday it fired warning shots in central Gaza toward “suspects” that posed a threat to troops. Continued …

  • Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

    (We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

    For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

    Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

    Bus Tickets 

    New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

    Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

    (We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

    Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

    Hua Hin train schedule

    To book online

    Van/minibus service at Market Village

    Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

    • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
    • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
    • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
    • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
    • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

    The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

     

    90-day online reporting

    Emergency hotline numbers:

            • Emergency hotline – 191
            • Emergency medical services – 1554
            • Water accident – 1196
            • Motorway hotline – 1586
            • Emergency medical – 1669
            • Highway police – 1193
            • Tourist police – 1155
            • Bus ticket – 1490
            • Department of Highways – 1586
            • State Railway – 1590

     

bangkok, covid, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news-June 10

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Border Trade Fair at Bluport/Heavy rain and strong winds expected/Covid Cases Surge/Photos show Cambodian invasion/ECONOMY: E-commerce to fuel rise/Thailand Races to Avoid US Tariffs/Less Export Reliance, More Domestic Growth/Foreign investment in EEC/Thai Households Tighten Belts/Debt due to overspending/NESDC Warns of SME Job Losses/Neta woes pose threat/Restaurant group expands offerings/TOURISM: Confusion Plagues Digital Nomad Visa/Drones set to spy on tourists/To boost MICE arrivals/Bangkok Top MICE Destination/Bangkok’s 5-billion-baht Ritz-Carlton/CLIMATE THAILAND: Global Standard In Eco-Tourism/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Border Trade Fair at Bluport Hua Hin this weekend

The Department of Foreign Trade will host a trade event at Bluport Hua Hin June 13-16, featuring more than 150 stalls as part of its annual Border Trade Fair. The event, which will take place at the Hua Hin Convention Center, aims to boost trade and investment by bringing together small businesses, community enterprises, and importers from neighboring countries.

A wide variety of products will be on display and available for purchase, including consumer goods, agricultural produce, fruit, food and beverages, lifestyle items, and locally made products from across Thailand. Continued …

Heavy rain and strong winds expected across Thailand this week

Widespread rain and isolated heavy showers are forecast nationwide, with very heavy rainfall possible in the east and along the western coast of the south.

A moderate monsoon trough is currently extending across the north and upper northeast of Thailand into a low-pressure cell over upper Vietnam. Meanwhile, a strong southwest monsoon continues to prevail over the Andaman Sea, the south, and the Gulf of Thailand, bringing increased rainfall across the country, the Thai Meteorological Department announced today. Continued …

Covid Cases Surge: Chula Expert Sounds Alarm on Rapid Spike

Thailand is witnessing a significant surge in Covid-19 cases, with Chulalongkorn University reporting 111,472 new cases and 31 deaths in the last week alone.

Dr. Thira Woratanarat of the Faculty of Medicine at the university has warned that this uptick should not be taken lightly. The total number of people who have sought treatment in 2025 has now surpassed 400,000, with Covid-related deaths exceeding those from influenza threefold. Continued …

Aerial photos show Cambodian invasion of Chong Bok

The Royal Thai Armed Forces have released aerial photos showing Cambodian troops invaded Thai soil in the Chong Bok area of Ubon Ratchathani province in April and built a strong base there in May, leading to the recent skirmish.

In a six-minute video posted on the social media channels of armed forces headquarters last night, a woman officer said the Thai military had a series of aerial photos of the area taken since 1955 and they showed that the area in Thailand in contention had not been occupied. Continued …

E-commerce to fuel rise of express deliveries

Thailand’s express parcel delivery market is expected to maintain steady growth, fueled by the e-commerce market, while some operators are planning to capitalize on advanced technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) to bolster their competitive edge.

According to ShipHub, a unified logistics platform service, Thailand’s express parcel delivery market continues to experience steady growth, fueled by the rapid expansion of e-commerce, which has become a cornerstone of the digital economy. Continued …

Thailand Races Against Time to Avoid Crippling 36% US Tariffs

Thailand has assembled a technical negotiation team to engage with Washington over punitive tariffs, with just weeks remaining before a 36% levy threatens to devastate the kingdom’s largest export market.

Officials are working against a July 8 deadline to conclude talks before Washington imposes retaliatory tariffs that could severely impact Thailand’s $35.4-billion trade surplus with America. A Ministry of Commerce source revealed that senior officials will engage directly with the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and Department of Commerce via video conference. Continued …

Thailand’s New Course: Less Export Reliance, More Domestic Growth

Thailand Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has unveiled a strategic blueprint for economic reform, emphasizing a move away from heavy export dependence toward fostering robust domestic balance and sustainable growth. The announcement came yesterday during a special address to Thai ambassadors and consuls-general gathered in Bangkok.

Pichai highlighted the current structural reliance of the Thai economy, where over 73% of national income stems from exports of goods and services, alongside a significant 60% from private consumption. However, he stressed the government’s firm objective to build a more balanced economic system, mitigating vulnerability to external factors and enhancing the nation’s capacity for resilient growth. Continued … 

Early surge in foreign investment in EEC

The number of foreigners investing in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) during the first four months of 2025 rose 40% year-on-year to 108, according to deputy government spokeswoman Sasikarn Wattanachan.

Sasikarn added that the government wants to promote investment in next-generation industries, ranging from electric vehicles to clean energy, with the aim of bolstering the country’s competitiveness. Continued …

Thai Households Tighten Belts: Energy Drinks and Instant Noodles Feel the Pinch

Two of Thailand’s most ubiquitous mass-market products, energy drinks and instant noodles, are experiencing a notable contraction in sales, signaling growing financial strain on the nation’s grassroots consumers.

Executives from the companies behind household names such as Krating Daeng (Red Bull) and Mama instant noodles point to a significant reduction in consumer purchasing power as the primary culprit. These product categories, deeply embedded in the daily lives of foundational consumers, often represent essential, cost-effective choices. Continued …

Over half of Thais may fall into debt due to overspending

More than 50% of working Thai people have savings amounting to less than six months of their salaries and there is a tendency to easily fall into a cycle of debt due to their habit of overspending, according to Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

Citing research by Mahidol University undertaken last year, he said that Thai people have a propensity for lavish spending, which can result in being overburdened with debt, noting that one in three Thais prefer to buy luxury items and premium services, such as expensive concert tickets and beauty-enhancement services, to boost their image and to gain recognition. Continued …

NESDC Warns of SME Job Losses and Graduate Unemployment Crisis

Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has expressed significant concern over the state of the nation’s job market, particularly the impact of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) closures on employment and the increasing difficulty for recent graduates to secure work.

In its latest Q1 2025 Social Outlook report released yesterday, the NESDC noted a marginal decrease in the unemployment rate to 0.88% from 1.01% in the same period last year. However, this figure masks underlying anxieties regarding job security and future employment prospects. Continued …

Chinese EV maker Neta woes pose threat to Thai car dealers

Troubles facing ailing Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker Neta could have a drastic spillover effect on Thai car dealers, possibly forcing them to shut down, while insurance companies may choose to collect premiums directly from policyholders, says Allianz Ayudhya General Insurance (AAGI).

AAGI Chief Executive Lars Heibutzki said the risk profile for EV insurance is increasing. Claims for EVs tend to be 50%-60% higher than for traditional vehicles, mainly due to expensive battery replacements and specialized repair work. Continued …

Restaurant group expands offerings amid dining out decline

Facing a sluggish economy and a dip in the number of people dining out at restaurants, Thipsamai Group – renowned for its restaurants’ legendary pad Thai – is adapting by expanding its line of ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook products in an effort to offset the situation.

Sikarachat Baisamut, chairman of Thipsamai Group and Siam Royal International, which operates Thipsamai Phadthai Pratoopee, said the current economic climate feels like the post-war period when people were feeling exhausted and were grappling with income-related challenges. Continued …

Confusion Plagues Thailand’s New Digital Nomad Visa, Leaving Applicants Stranded

Thailand’s recently launched Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), aimed at attracting digital nomads, has faced significant challenges, leaving many applicants stranded across Southeast Asia. Delays, confusion, and inconsistent procedures at regional embassies have complicated the application process, turning it into a bureaucratic ordeal.

Digital nomads in Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia who traveled specifically to apply for the DTV, are experiencing considerable delays. They face extended wait times, backlogged appointments, and changing requirements. The Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh has drawn particular criticism, with some applicants reporting no response for more than 10 days after submitting their applications. Continued …

Drones set to spy on tourists in Pattaya

The Pattaya mayor has launched a new plan to keep crooks in check, from the sky, by rolling out AI-powered police drones to hunt down overstayers and suspects in real time.

The plan aims to integrate drones with a centralized AI database capable of scanning crowds and identifying people with outstanding warrants or overstaying their visas, especially during major city events. Continued …

Association seeks ways to boost MICE arrivals

The number of international travelers in the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) segment this year is expected to contract from last year, due to U.S. trade and tariff policies and an unsafe image of Thailand, according to the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA).

Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk, the newly elected president of TICA, said the size of international MICE groups has shrunk, and they have tended to shorten the duration of their trips or reduce activities to save costs. Continued …

Bangkok Fuels Country’s Ranking as Top MICE Destination

After seeing a tourism boost from set-jetting – a term used to describe travelers who visit a location after seeing it in a TV show or movie – Bangkok has taken 7th spot as a city destination in the ASEAN region for international conventions.

It’s a big jump from 2023 when the city took 15th place in ICCA Country & City Rankings for 2024 (International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) ASEAN region – Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Continued …

Bangkok’s 5-billion-baht Ritz-Carlton set to offer most expensive room rates

Asset World Corp. (AWC) has invested over 5 billion baht in developing the Ritz-Carlton Bangkok at the Lhong 1919 Riverside Heritage Destination in Bangkok, aiming to become the hotel offering the highest room rate in the city.

Wallapa Traisorat, chief executive and president of AWC, said the project is set to become a wellness and luxury destination along Bangkok’s riverside. Slated for completion in 2028, the Ritz-Carlton Bangkok will be situated on three plots with a total of 191 hotel rooms and 50,400 square meters of gross floor area. Continued …

Thailand Sets Global Standard In Eco-Tourism Through Green Mobility Infrastructure

Thailand, a land known for its golden beaches, lush jungles, and ancient temples, has always drawn travelers in search of natural beauty and cultural wonder. But as global awareness of climate change deepens, the country’s tourism industry is reimagining how it welcomes the world — this time with sustainability at its heart.

What was once a niche concept is now a growing movement, as Thailand positions itself as a leader in eco-conscious travel across Southeast Asia. In an ambitious push toward low-impact tourism, Thailand has unveiled a set of 11 specially curated low-carbon travel routes. These itineraries span the country’s diverse geography — from the misty highlands of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai to the sun-drenched shores of Krabi and Phuket. Continued …

Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

          • Emergency hotline – 191
          • Emergency medical services – 1554
          • Water accident – 1196
          • Motorway hotline – 1586
          • Emergency medical – 1669
          • Highway police – 1193
          • Tourist police – 1155
          • Bus ticket – 1490
          • Department of Highways – 1586
          • State Railway – 1590

 

bangkok, covid, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-June 9

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(Editor: We have heard from a reader who has renewed her one-year retirement visa, that Hua Hin immigration is not asking for any Thai tax ID or information.)

Feedback/New one-way traffic system/New presidents installed/Thailand and Cambodia Begin Troop Pullback/Mystery of Bt12M Cash/Dengue cases surge/Infectious diseases to watch for/Does your health insurance cover Covid-19?/Bombs in downtown Pattani/Worker killed on Rama II/Should non-medicinal weed be legal?/ECONOMY: What Thai households spend/Tariffs crush Thai housing/Tariff negotiations with Thailand/Trump vs united ASEAN/TOURISM: Tourism ‘golden age’ is over/Immigration Ramps Up Airport Security/Is it safe to visit Thailand?/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: How Thai culture uses food/Chinese origins of common Thai words/Nan’s old town brought to life/CLIMATE THAILAND: EV sector faces bumpy road/Upbeat on commercial EVs/Passenger trains running on hudrogen/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Phuket Police Hunt Foreigners/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Re: Motorcycle helmet use

“A wonderful article from the editorial team regarding mandatory helmet use. I also think it’s a mere token exercise that will achieve ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. At most, it will lead to the fatal belief that we can now ride even faster. The cost of good, safe helmets will also be unsustainable! The solution MUST be training. Also, training in character.” – RBM

New one-way traffic system introduced at ‘moon curve roundabout’

A temporary one-way traffic system is now in place near Hua Hin’s “moon curve roundabout”, as part of ongoing efforts to ease congestion during construction works at one of the city’s busiest traffic hotspots.

The roundabout is being constructed to improve traffic flow around the Klong Prachan curve on Chomsin Road, a key junction used by motorists traveling to and from Smorprong and the canal road toward Hin Lek Fai. The area has long suffered from severe congestion, particularly during peak times. Continued …

New presidents installed at local Rotary clubs

Rotary clubs in Hua Hin have marked the start of their new leadership terms with installation ceremonies attended by provincial officials and Rotary members from across the region.

On Friday, the Rotary Club Royal Hua Hin hosted its annual installation ceremony for the incoming president and executive board for the 2025–2026 term at the Amari Hua Hin Hotel. More than 200 guests, both Thai and international, attended the event. Continued …

Thailand and Cambodia Begin Troop Pullback Amid Border Tensions

Both Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to defuse tensions along their border by retreating troops to positions held last year. The breakthrough came after the Cambodian army initiated talks with Thailand’s Suranaree Task Force this morning, following heightened strains after a deadly clash on May 28 at Chong Bok, Ubon Ratchathani.

Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang of Thailand’s 2nd Army granted permission for negotiations after approval from Army Commander Gen. Pana Klaewplodthuk. This de-escalation will see both nations’ forces withdraw and commit to weekly dialogs at Chong Bok to ensure peace is maintained. Continued … 

Mystery of B12M Cash Near Nonthaburi Condo Bin Unfolds

A whopping 12 million baht has been discovered in an unexpected place – near a condo bin in Nonthaburi. The cash, encased in a plastic box, was found by a resident on Friday, prompting an immediate police investigation.

A lawyer associated with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has since stepped forward, claiming the money as his own and asserting its legal origins. The man reported to the authorities that the stash was mistakenly discarded amid a clean-up after a burst water pipe damaged his fifth-floor condo unit. Continued …

Dengue cases surge past 12,000 nationwide

With over 12,000 dengue cases and 16 deaths reported across Thailand, Bangkok health officials are sounding the alarm. The capital alone has seen 787 infections and one fatality.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Health Department is urging the public to step up dengue prevention measures as Thailand continues to see a concerning increase in infections. The call comes as the capital has recorded 787 cumulative cases of dengue fever, with one reported death, since the beginning of 2025. Continued …

5 key infectious diseases to watch for in June

The Public Health Ministry on Thursday (June 5) held a meeting of the National Communicable Disease Committee to address the ongoing infectious disease situations in Thailand. The committee highlighted five major diseases that the public should be aware of and monitor closely in the month of June.

1. Covid-19

The number of Covid-19 cases has been rising recently. There have been 330,485 confirmed cases so far this year, with outbreaks primarily occurring in educational institutions and prisons. There have been 73 deaths, most of which were among the elderly or individuals with underlying health conditions. Continued …

Does your health insurance still cover Covid-19?

Covid-19 cases are rising again in Thailand, with the Ministry of Public Health reporting a national total of 324,692 cases and 69 fatalities. The spike comes as the rainy season begins and schools reopen, and the virus is expected to keep spreading, especially in places like Chiang Mai, where many expats live. Most cases are mild, but the risk is still there. That’s why now is a good time for expats to check their health insurance.

Not all plans still over Covid, and rules can change. Making sure your insurance includes the right coverage can help you stay safe and avoid high medical costs. Continued …

Bombs in downtown Pattani, no injuries reported

Two bombs went off in the city center of Pattani last night but no injuries have been reported. One blast took place near the night food market at 8pm and another one exploded close to nearby Santisuk Hotel, both in Muang district, police said.

Police said the two bombs were placed in roadside trash bins by an unknown number of insurgents. No injuries were reported but some motorcycles were damaged. Continued …

Myanmar worker killed in construction accident on Rama II

A Myanmar construction worker was killed yesterday morning after a section of soil collapsed at a construction site on Rama II Road in Bangkok, causing a large concrete slab to fall and crush him while he was laying drainage pipes.

The incident occurred in Bang Mod subdistrict, Chom Thong district, on the outbound side of Rama II Road. The area, part of an elevated expressway construction zone, had been closed to traffic. Continued … 

Should non-medicinal weed be legal?

The issue of narcotics is not only a law enforcement and medical issue. It is also a historical, political and economic issue.

A recurrent dilemma is whether personal, non-medical use of “weed” or cannabis (which is generally seen as a softer drug, when compared with harder drugs such as methamphetamine), should be legal. Thailand is still in the quest for a balanced answer, and this is shaped by political and economic ambivalence. Continued …

What Thai households spend on most

Thai households spent an average of 21,037 baht in May, with housing-related expenses, such as rent, electricity, and cooking gas, being the highest cost, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO).

TPSO Director Poonpong Naiyanapakorn said the spending occurred against the backdrop of a slight rise in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which stood at 100.40 in May, up from 100.14 in April. Spending was divided into two main categories: expenses unrelated to food and non-alcoholic beverages, and those related to that group, according to TPSO. Continued …

Trump tariffs crush Thai housing demand

The “Trump effect” has had a far greater impact on housing demand than the recent earthquake, which only caused temporary delays in purchases and transfers, whereas the former led to buyers stopping purchases altogether, according to developer Supalai.

Tritecha Tangmatitham, managing director of Supalai, said the U.S. tariff hike caused export-related business owners to cancel home transfers, with some even forfeiting their down payments without hesitation. Continued …

US agrees to start official tariff negotiations with Thailand

The United States has agreed to start official tariff negotiations with Thailand, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira.

Pichai revealed the development in a short video on Saturday, saying that the U.S. had made an official response to Thailand, saying it would start negotiations on mutual trade and tariffs. Continued …

Tariff man Trump vs united ASEAN

U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs – especially the ultra-high “reciprocal tariffs” that he says will be reintroduced on July 8 for any country that has not struck a trade deal with his administration – have sent countries around the world scrambling to respond, adapt and limit the fallout.

ASEAN’s 10 members – Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam – have been among the most proactive. Their leaders quickly recognized that after decades of spectacular GDP growth the Association of Southeast Asian Nations is an economic force that the Trump administration would have to reckon with in a serious way. Continued …

Former TAT governor says Thailand’s tourism ‘golden age’ is over

The former governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has advised on three key strategies to reshape Thailand’s tourism landscape, asserting that the country’s golden age of tourism has come to an end.

Thailand’s tourism industry is undergoing a significant structural transformation amid shifting environmental and market conditions, to the extent that it may never be the same again. However, former TAT governor Yuthasak Supasorn — now hacirman of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) — says the industry can step into a new era if the tourism landscape is redefined. Continued …

Immigration Ramps Up Airport Security to Block ‘Gray Business’ Foreigners

Airport immigration authorities in Thailand, particularly at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, have stepped up surveillance and screening procedures to prevent foreign nationals associated with so-called “gray businesses” from entering the country via air travel. The move follows stricter land border controls now in effect.

In line with a government directive to tighten land border crossings, especially in Chanthaburi and Sa Kaeo provinces, the Royal Thai Army has authorized its 1st and 2nd Regional Armies to filter cross-border movements. The new land border measures have been in force since June 7. Authorities now anticipate that individuals previously entering Thailand from Cambodia via land may attempt to use air travel instead. Continued …

Is it safe to visit Thailand right now? Here’s what travelers need to know

Over the years, I’ve known quite a few people who’ve traveled to Thailand, some with a backpack and a tight budget, others on luxurious beach holidays or cultural adventures through ancient temples. No matter the style of travel, they’ve all come back with glowing reviews: the food, the scenery, the people – it’s easy to see why Thailand has become such a go-to destination.

But lately, I’ve noticed a shift. With recent earthquakes in the region and ongoing unrest in some neighboring countries, a growing number of would-be travelers are asking the big question: Is it safe to visit Thailand right now? Continued …

How Thai culture uses food to connect and greet

In Thailand, greetings aren’t just about politeness; they’re about connection, care and of course, food. While in many parts of the world, people greet each other with “How are you?” or “How was your day?”, the Thai greeting is far more unique and personal.

Video 

Instead of asking how someone is doing, it’s common to ask, “กินข้าวหรือยัง?” Kin Khao Reu Yang? (Have you eaten yet?). If you’re new to Thai culture, this might sound strange, but it’s actually a deep-rooted tradition that reflects the importance of food in everyday life. Continued …

Surprising Chinese origins of common Thai words

Did you know that many everyday Thai words have their roots in Teochew Chinese? Thanks to centuries of Chinese immigration to Thailand, particularly from the Teochew region of southern China, the Thai language has absorbed countless words from the Chinese dialect, enriching the local lexicon.

Video 

These words, which most of us use daily without even realizing their origins, reflect the deep cultural exchanges between Thailand and China. Continued …

Nan’s old town brought to life with months-long light festival

Nan’s historical old town is being illuminated with vibrant light displays and cultural activities over the next two months as part of an initiative to revive the province’s cultural charm and boost tourism.

As part of the event titled “Magical Charm of Nan City: A Living Old Town,” lights will adorn landmarks such as Nan City Wall, Kuang Mueang Nan Walking Street, Kuang Noi Mueang Nan Walking Street, Phakong Road, and Mahawong Road from June 6 to Aug. 6. Continued …

 

EV sector faces bumpy road

A recent uptick in electric vehicle sales may not signify a smooth path for the Thai EV industry following double-digit growth.

From January to April, domestic sales of battery EVs (BEVs) soared by 46% year-on-year to 33,633 vehicles in the passenger car category, compared with a decrease of 13% for internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered vehicles to 48,784 units, according to the Automotive Industry Club of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Continued …

Nex Point upbeat on commercial EVs

Nex Point, a commercial electric vehicle (EV) assembler under Energy Absolute Plc (EA), expects to escape losses this year thanks to increasing sales and a fundraising plan.

Last year, the company posted a loss of 2.76 billion baht, attributed to delays in delivering EVs to customers and the impact of its financial and administration restructuring process. Continued …

German passenger trains running on hudrogen

Germany just pulled off a major flex in green tech. Say hello to hydrogen-powered passenger trains, sleek, zero-emission machines that run on nothing but hydrogen and emit only water vapor.

Built by Alstom, these Coradia iLint trains are replacing diesel engines on non-electrified rail lines, proving that clean energy and long-distance travel can go hand in hand. With ranges of up to 1,200 kilometers per tank, Germany is cutting down thousands of tons of carbon emissions each year and setting the pace for the future of transportation.

Phuket Police Hunt Foreigners After Brutal Assault on Mall Security Guard

Authorities in Phuket are on the hunt for two foreigners who severely assaulted a security guard after he advised them not to urinate in front of a shopping mall.

The incident has sparked public outrage following an online post, describing how two foreigners ignored warnings from a security guard in Patong, leading to the guard being violently attacked. Despite another security guard intervening, the aggressors fled the scene, leaving the victim hospitalized and unconscious. Continued …

  • French National Arrested in Pattaya for Sexually Assaulting 13-Year-Old Girl – Continued …
  • Russian DJ Arrested for Drug Dealing on Koh Phangan – Continued …
  • Russian Couple Accused of Fleeing Pattaya Massage Parlor Without Paying – Continued …

Alcaraz outlasts Sinner in 5-hour epic to win longest-ever French Open final

Carlos Alcaraz battled from the brink of a first Grand Slam final loss to outlast Jannik Sinner in a French Open title clash for the ages yesterday and keep his crown, cementing his status as the Prince of Clay in Roland Garros’ post-Rafa Nadal era. Continued …

NATO learns as Ukraine’s ‘creativity’ changes battlefield

Ukraine’s “creativity”, including its massive “Spider’s web” drone attack deep inside Russia, holds profound lessons for Western militaries, the top NATO commander overseeing battlefield innovation said. Continued …

UN summit to tackle ’emergency’ in world’s oceans

A global summit on the dire state of the oceans kicks off today in France, with calls to ban bottom trawling and bolster protections for the world’s overexploited marine areas. World leaders attending the UN Ocean Conference in Nice have been told to come up with concrete ideas – and money – to tackle what organizers call a global “emergency” facing the neglected seas. Continued …

Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

          • Emergency hotline – 191
          • Emergency medical services – 1554
          • Water accident – 1196
          • Motorway hotline – 1586
          • Emergency medical – 1669
          • Highway police – 1193
          • Tourist police – 1155
          • Bus ticket – 1490
          • Department of Highways – 1586
          • State Railway – 1590

 

bangkok, covid, exports, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, wildlife tourism

Saturday’s news-June 7

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Big C opens at BluPort/Danish Embassy in Hua Hin Tuesday/Thai Woman Finds 12 Million Baht/Thailand Ready for Military Action/Cambodia Masses 12,000 Soldiers/What’s behind the row?/Hun Sen’s nationalist card/Double-Decker Bus Ban reversed/Heavy rain and flash flood risk/374,000 Covid cases, 84 deaths/Law backs local booze makers/Increased seismic activity reported/ECONOMY: Thailand inflation remains negative/’Ready to begin tariff talks’/IMF warns global trade war shock/Manufacturers expected to face slowdown/Housing buyer’s market/TOURISM: 14 million foreign tourists in 2025/Tiger Walking Activities canceled/CLIMATE THAILAND: Phuket tackles plastic pollution/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Vacation behavior can get you arrested/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

 

Big C Hua Hin Marché officially opens at BluPort

Big C Supercenter has officially opened Big C Hua Hin Marché, a new premium supermarket concept at Bluport Hua Hin.

Located on the G floor of Bluport Hua Hin, Big C Hua Hin Marché has been designed to offer an upgraded shopping experience, combining convenience, high-quality products, and accessible prices in a modern setting. Continued …

Danish Embassy brings outreach event to Hua Hin Tuesday

Danish citizens in Thailand will have an opportunity to meet Ambassador Danny Annan in person during a series of community outreach events hosted by the Embassy of Denmark in June.

The events will take place in Khon Kaen, Hua Hin, and Pattaya, offering attendees the chance to learn more about the embassy’s work in politics, trade, consular assistance, visas, and residence in Denmark. Continued … 

Thai Woman Finds Abandoned Box with 12 Million Baht, Lawyer Claims Money Was Forgotten Due to Flood

The owner of 12 million baht (£270,000) in cash has surfaced to clarify its baffling discovery. The money was recently found in a gray plastic box alongside a condominium lift in Muang Thong Thani, Pak Kret, by a Thai woman.

The box, which also contained wet clothing and wine bottles, was reportedly forgotten after the owner’s room was flooded. Police began an investigation to determine the legality and the rightful owner of the cash. Continued …

Thailand Ready for Military Action Amid Cambodia Border Tensions

In an escalating border dispute with Cambodia, Thailand’s military has declared readiness for a “high-level operation” to counter any breach of its sovereignty. This strong stance follows a deadly confrontation last week and highlights growing tensions between the neighboring countries.

Yesterday, the Thai military issued a statement expressing concerns over Cambodia’s increased military preparedness at the border, despite ongoing diplomatic dialogues. This assertion contrasts sharply with an earlier government statement calling for peaceful engagement through existing diplomatic channels. Continued …

Cambodia Masses 12,000 Soldiers at Thai Border Amid Tensions

Cambodia has deployed 12,000 troops to the Thai-Cambodian border area of Chong Bok, Ubon Ratchathani, according to local security sources. The escalation comes after increased tensions near the Ta Moan Thom Temple in Surin’s Phanom Dong Rak district. The military build-up intensified following a Cambodian soldier’s death in recent clashes.

Since February, Cambodia has strategically positioned its forces, expanding troop numbers and military hardware. The arsenal includes four-barrel rocket launchers on six-wheel trucks, RM-70 multiple rocket launchers, SH-1A howitzers, and T-55 tanks, significantly enhancing their operational capabilities. Continued …

What’s behind the row between Thailand and Cambodia?

Tension has been rising between Thailand and Cambodia following the killing of a Cambodian soldier on May 28 during a brief exchange of gunfire at a disputed border area between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.

Thailand and Cambodia have for more than a century contested sovereignty at various undemarcated points along their 817-kilometers land border, which was first mapped by France in 1907 when Cambodia was its colony. That map, which Thailand later contested, was based on an agreement that the border would be demarcated along the natural watershed line between the two countries. Continued …

Hun Sen’s nationalist card: Border tensions as a shield for dynastic power

Despite long-standing ties with former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, former Cambodian leader Hun Sen has reignited border disputes with Thailand, asserting his independence while shielding his son’s government from domestic unrest.

For more than 40 years, Hun Sen’s political survival has relied on a potent mix of fearmongering and nationalism, often fanned through the rhetoric of war and hostility toward Cambodia’s neighbors. Continued …

Ministry of Transport Backs Down Over Double-Decker Bus Ban

The Ministry of Transport has agreed to reconsider its controversial ban on double-decker buses traveling along several steep mountain routes, most notably the Khao Phap Pha section of Highway 4 connecting Trang and Phatthalung. The decision follows a large-scale protest by operators and a growing backlash from local businesses and the tourism sector.

Over 100 double-decker buses assembled Wednesday at the Andaman Gateway on the Trang-Phatthalung border in protest. Led by the Thai Association of Double-Decker Bus Operators (TADBO), the demonstrators submitted a formal petition to Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, urging him to revoke a recent Department of Land Transport (DLT) directive banning such vehicles from operating on seven so-called “high-risk” routes across the country. Continued …

Heavy rain and flash flood risk as monsoon strengthens across Thailand

More rains and isolated heavy showers are expected in the lower central region, including Bangkok metropolitan area, the east, and the south.

The moderate monsoon trough will move south, crossing the north, northeast, and upper central regions into the low-pressure cell over the middle South China Sea. Meanwhile, the moderate southwest monsoon will strengthen over the Andaman Sea, lower central, south, east, and Gulf regions of Thailand, bringing increased rainfall, the Thai Meteorological Department said today. Continued …

DDC reports over 374,000 Covid cases, 84 deaths

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has reported nearly 375,000 Covid-19 cases nationwide so far this year, with 84 confirmed fatalities.

According to the DDC’s Bureau of Epidemiology, 23,352 new patients were recorded as of Thursday. Of these, 22,399 were treated as outpatients and 953 were hospitalized. Bangkok still leads in new infections, recording 9,193 cases, followed by Rayong (1,088), Nonthaburi (729), Sa Kaeo (665), and Chon Buri (611). Continued …

New law backs local booze makers

The Community Liquor Law is now in force, allowing small producers to legally make all types of alcohol while preventing unfair monopolies.

The Ministry of Finance will subsequently update its ministerial regulations and criteria in accordance with the new law, a move that will provide better access to legal alcohol production licenses for all farmers and entrepreneurs. Continued …

Increased seismic activity reported near Thailand-Myanmar border

Thailand’s Earthquake Monitoring Division, under the Meteorological Department, has reported early warning signs of increased seismic activity along the Thai-Myanmar border.

Recent minor earthquakes detected in Mae Hong Son and nearby regions in Myanmar point to a rising frequency of tremors. While the magnitudes remain low and non-destructive, officials stress that the pattern warrants close and continuous monitoring. Continued …

Thailand inflation remains negative in May; government cuts 2025 forecast

Thailand’s annual inflation rate was negative for a second straight month in May, the commerce ministry said yesterday, as it cut its full-year forecast to close to zero, just weeks ahead of the central bank’s next monetary policy review.

The consumer price index dropped 0.57% in May from a year earlier, not quite as steep as the 0.80% fall forecast in a Reuters poll, following a 0.22% fall in April. It was the third month in a row that the inflation rate has been below the central bank’s target range of 1.0% to 3.0%. Continued …

US is ‘ready to begin tariff talks’ with Thailand

The United States is ready for trade talks with Thailand, with Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira to lead negotiations aimed at boosting economic ties, Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said.

Maris stated Thailand’s ambassador to Washington, Suriya Chindawongse, had informed him on Thursday night that the U.S. government was ready to support the Thai embassy in coordinating with relevant American agencies to arrange the negotiating schedule. Continued …

IMF warns global trade war shock ‘harsher than Covid’ for emerging markets – like Thailand

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a stark warning: the current global trade war could pose a more severe crisis than the Covid-19 pandemic — especially for central banks in emerging markets, where the challenges are more complex and the policy responses less uniform. This is tightening global financial conditions in ways not seen since the pandemic.

Gita Gopinath, first deputy managing director of the IMF, told the Financial Times that the shock from escalating trade tensions is affecting emerging-market central banks in more complicated ways than the pandemic did. During Covid-19, most central banks had the option to swiftly cut interest rates or roll out stimulus packages. That’s no longer the case. Continued …

Manufacturers expected to face slowdown in second half

The manufacturing sector may slow in the second half as exports are likely to fall if Thailand fails to reach an agreement with the U.S. that lowers the proposed reciprocal tariff, warns the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The 36% import duty on Thai products is slated to take effect on July 8 after a 90-day pause ends, if the two countries cannot reach an agreement to ease Thailand’s trade surplus with the U.S. Continued … 

Buyer’s market emerges in Thailand as developers struggle

For homebuyers ouse or condominium. Conversely, the outlook for residential developers appears challenging, with a declining trend expected to persist into next year.

Homebuyers will find a market brimming with options as supply significantly outpaces demand. This abundance of inventory creates a stark contrast for developers, who are postponing new condominium project launches to avoid intensifying market competition. Continued …

Thailand welcomes 14 million foreign tourists in 2025, down 2.7%

As of the first five months of 2025 (January to May), Thailand has welcomed a total of 14,362,694 foreign tourists, a 2.7% decrease compared to the same period last year. The largest group of foreign tourists continues to come from China, with 1,958,939 visitors, followed by Malaysia (1,901,464), India (978,600), Russia (961,143), and South Korea (673,563).

When broken down regionally, Asia accounted for nearly 63% of total foreign visitors to Thailand. However, there has been a significant decline in the number of tourists, especially from northeast Asia (China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan), which dropped by as much as 23%. Specifically, China saw a decrease of 32.7%, Hong Kong by 23.1%, and South Korea by 16.2% compared to the same period last year. Continued … 

Thai Authorities Order Sri Racha Park to Cancel Tiger Walking Activities

Following viral videos showing a shocking incident where a tiger pounced on an Indian tourist during a photo session at a Tiger Park in Thailand, which was widely reported by Indian media, Thailand’s Department of National Parks has now ordered the tiger park to ban its tiger walking activities.

The viral clip that circulated online was initially reported to have occurred in Phuket Province, prompting Tiger Park and Tiger Kingdom Phuket to issue statements clarifying that the incident did not occur at their facilities. They have outlined their comprehensive safety protocols and animal welfare policies in response to the confusion. Continued …

Phuket tackles plastic pollution for World Environment Day

Over 350 participants gathered at Dragon Square in Phuket Town Thursday as the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization (PPAO) launched its World Environment Day campaign.

The event, held at Queen Sirikit Park, focused on the urgent need to eliminate single-use plastics, aligning with the United Nations’ 2025 global theme, Beat Plastic Pollution. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the destructive impact of plastic waste on ecosystems, public health, and the climate. Continued …

Yes, your vacation behavior can get you arrested: What travelers regret most

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done on vacation? Austin Rulfs said he’s still embarrassed about his recent visit to a Balinese temple. He was wearing a T-shirt and tattered shorts. The locals stared at him with disapproval.

“I underestimated how strict they are about respecting sacred areas,” said Rulfs, a financial consultant from Adelaide, Australia. With summer vacation season just ahead, how about you? Continued …

US, China set for trade talks in London on Monday

aides will face their Chinese counterparts in London on Monday for talks to resolve a trade dispute between the world’s two largest economies that has kept global markets on edge. Continued …

Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

          • Emergency hotline – 191
          • Emergency medical services – 1554
          • Water accident – 1196
          • Motorway hotline – 1586
          • Emergency medical – 1669
          • Highway police – 1193
          • Tourist police – 1155
          • Bus ticket – 1490
          • Department of Highways – 1586
          • State Railway – 1590

 

climate change, covid, exports, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, medical tourism, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, wildlife tourism

Wednesday’s news-June 4

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Two Killed in PKK bus crash/Helmet law sparks dissent/Running events face glut/Bracing for ‘Rain Bombs’/Covid-19 cases surge/Government Denies Military Rift With Cambodia/Thailand boosts 30-baht healthcare scheme/ECONOMY: Trump tariffs leave deep scars/Developers’ Q1 profits plunge/India and Thailand trade ties/THAIFEX–ANUGA ASIA 2025/TOURISM: Transform Borders into ‘Wellness Hubs’/Phuket Tiger Parks Issue Denial/Shocking rise in captive lions/Hair transplants in Thailand/British tourist found dead/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: June Events Calendar/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s clean energy path/Response to solar panel bill/Refining Industry Transitioning To Clean Energy/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Two Killed After Bus Driver Falls Asleep at the Wheel in Prachuap Khiri Khan

An early morning crash today has left two passengers dead and several others seriously injured after a long-distance tour bus traveling from Rayong to Surat Thani veered off the road and plunged into a central reservation. Authorities confirmed that the driver fell asleep at the wheel moments before the crash.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:30 am on Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road), near the entrance to King Rama VI Camp, home to Border Patrol Police Unit 14, in Hua Sai subdistrict, Mueang District, Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Continued …

New helmet law sparks dissent

The government’s latest campaign to arrest and fine motorcyclists and pillion riders for not wearing helmets has hardly seemed to inspire hope among the public that it will have a positive impact, nor scare potential lawbreakers. The public’s reaction to the latest road safety campaign titled “Safe Roads Project” has been quite cynical.

In interviews with TV news channels, motorcycle taxi drivers say the government needs to focus on solving bread-and-butter issues instead of imposing heavy fines on the public. Worse still, many motorcyclists and members of the public see the campaign as opening the door for unscrupulous policemen to extort more bribes from motorbike riders. Continued … 

Thai running events face glut

The recent backlash over a fake marathon event indicates Thailand has a glut of running events, and only large and experienced event organizers can survive as runners become more selective to control costs, says the Thai Mass Participation Sports Trade Assn. (TMPSA).

On May 25, runners were left stranded at “Run for Destination 2025” at Suanluang Rama IX park, as the organizer, who was holding this event for the first time, failed to appear. Several runners filed complaints against the organizer. Continued …

Thailand Braces for ‘Rain Bombs’ Amid Climate Turbulence, Echoing 2011 Flood Concerns

Thailand faces “rain bombs” raising alarms reminiscent of the devastating 2011 floods. Experts warn these downpours, wgich last occurred from May 25-27, might be the result of unusual climate patterns that could signal a turbulent rainy season ahead.

Fueled by a robust southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, these intense storms come amid peculiar climate shifts noted since early this year. During just the first two weeks of May, Bangkok saw nearly double the usual rainfall, reaching an unexpected 188.5 millimeters. Continued …

Covid-19 cases surge, over 28,000 new cases in two days

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) yesterday reported the Covid-19 situation for week 23 of 2025 via the Digital Disease Surveillance (DDS) system. The latest data, as of June 2 showed 10,192 new cases. Previously, on June 1, there were 18,102 new cases, bringing the total new cases in the past two days (June 1-2) to 28,294.

Of the new cases, 9,304 were outpatients, and 888 were severe cases requiring hospitalization. Additionally, one death was reported. As of May 27, the cumulative total of Covid-19 cases for 2025 stands at 323,301, with 69 deaths. Continued …

Government Denies Military Rift and Border Closure Amid Cambodia Tensions

The government has rejected claims of internal rifts with the military and firmly denied any plans to close the Thai-Cambodia border, amid escalating social media criticism over the administration’s handling of a sensitive territorial dispute with Cambodia.

Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai issued a statement yesterday addressing online speculation, reiterating that both the government and military remain united in seeking a peaceful resolution. Continued …

Thailand boosts 30-baht healthcare scheme with record budget

The government has reaffirmed that its universal 30-baht healthcare scheme will remain in place and continue to expand. The House of Representatives recently approved the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, which includes a record 265.295billion-baht allocation to the National Health Security Office (NHSO), the highest since the scheme’s launch. The move counters recent rumors that the program would be scrapped or face insolvency.

The budget increase highlights the government’s priority to strengthen national healthcare and ensure broad access to medical services. The 30-baht scheme, also known as the “gold card,” guarantees affordable treatment for all Thai citizens, from basic care to specialized services. Continued …

Trump tariffs leave deep scars on Thai economy: BOT chief

Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, governor of the Bank of Thailand (BOT), warned in an interview that U.S. import tariffs — coupled with trade diversion from other markets — could seriously damage several Thai industries and leave lasting scars on the economy.

His remarks align with growing concerns across Asia, where the ripple effects of U.S. tariff measures, introduced under President Donald Trump, are beginning to reach real sectors of the economy, after months of financial market volatility. Continued …

Residential developers’ Q1 profits plunge to decade-low

The first-quarter net profit of 10 SET-listed residential developers has fallen to 3.56 billion baht, the lowest level in over a decade and less than half the five-year average, attributed to the economic slowdown and sluggish housing demand, Kasikorn Securities reported.

Sorapong Jakteerungkul, senior vice president at Kasikorn Securities, said combined net profit fell short as expected, dropping 38% year-on-year and 51% quarter-on-quarter. The sharp decline was driven by falling top-line revenue and narrower operating margins. Continued …

India and Thailand eye closer trade ties

As India and Thailand mark 78 years of diplomatic relations this year, both nations are seeking to expand cooperation in trade, investment, and tourism, aiming to tap into their longstanding historical and cultural ties.

Nagesh Singh, India’s ambassador to Thailand, said bilateral economic ties are gaining momentum, particularly through the ongoing review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement. “Eight to nine rounds of dialogue have taken place between India and ASEAN members to modernize the agreement to suit current economic realities,” he said. Continued …

THAIFEX–ANUGA ASIA 2025 breaks records with 142,000 attendees Bt135 billion in trade

The Commerce Ministry has announced the success of THAIFEX–ANUGA ASIA 2025, the international food and beverage trade show held from May 27-31 at the Impact Exhibition and Convention Center in Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi Province.

The event saw strong participation from business leaders and buyers worldwide, reaffirming Thailand’s potential as a regional business hub for food and a key player in the global food supply chain. It also provided a platform to promote “Thai Food to the World”, boosting the country’s commercial and cultural influence on the global stage. Continued …

Thailand to Invest Bt509 million to Transform Borders into ‘Wellness Hubs’

In a strategic move to boost Thailand’s status as a wellness tourism hotspot, the Budget Bureau is committing 509 million baht from its 2026 revenue to develop the nation’s border provinces into thriving medical hubs.

Announced by Deputy Health Spokesman Jirapong Songwatcharaporn yesterday, this initiative forms a key part of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s vision to establish Thailand as a global health center. This plan includes an array of services from wellness spas to traditional Thai medicine, all aimed at generating over 690 billion baht in annual revenue. Continued …

Phuket Tiger Parks Issue Denial Over Viral India Tourist Incident

Tiger Park and Tiger Kingdom Phuket has issued a statement clarifying that viral videos showing a violent incident between a tiger and a tourist did not occur at their facilities, following widespread reports by Indian online news agencies linking the attractions to the incident.

The popular tourist destinations emphasized that the incident referenced in the viral footage took place elsewhere and has no connection to their operations. “The viral videos do not depict our location or our staff. The incident occurred in Si Racha, Chonburi, not at our Phuket facility or any of our branches,” said Pornrawee Samakthai, managing director of Tiger Kingdom. Continued …

Shocking rise in farmed and captive lions in Thailand

A new report reveals that the number of captive lions in facilities – including private homes, businesses (such as lion/petting cafés), breeding farms, and zoos – has more than tripled over seven years, raising grave concerns for animal welfare, conservation, and public safety.

A new research paper published in the journal Discover Conservation has highlighted the dramatic surge in the number of captive lions in Thailand, with the total population rising from 131 individuals in 2018 to 444 in 2024 — a 239% increase. The authors, comprising researchers from the UK and Thailand, warn this explosive growth, driven by demand for exotic pets, entertainment, and the likely trade in lion body parts, exposes dangerous gaps in Thai legislation and enforcement, leaving animals, people, and biodiversity at risk. Continued …

Why Australians are choosing hair transplants in Thailand

Each year, around 15,000 Australians travel overseas for medical procedures. Thailand tops the list, thanks to its proximity, affordable prices, and modern clinics. In particular, more and more Aussies are flocking to Bangkok to restore their hairlines.

According to research by Bookimed, the world’s leading medical tourism platform, a hair transplant in Thailand can cost up to 70% less than in Australia. This guide breaks down Thailand’s advantages, available procedures, costs, and the best hair transplant clinics. Continued …

British tourist found dead on Koh Pha Ngan

A British tourist has been found dead and half-naked on a Koh Pha Ngan beach just days before the island’s notorious full moon party.

The 54-year-old was discovered face-down in the sand by a local villager at around 6.30 am today, wearing nothing but an orange bra. Her underwear was later found washed up nearby. Continued …

Thailand’s June Events Calendar

Get ready for June 2025 in Thailand. Experience the cool atmosphere of the Pattaya Night Run 2025. Celebrate local culture and sustainable living at Chompol Fest 2025 and Nan Green Craft, or enjoy friendly fun at the Samui Story Fun Fest x Central Samui. Runners can take on the breathtaking Laguna Phuket Marathon.

This June, Thailand is your experiences of culture, sport, and celebration. Continued …

Charting Thailand’s clean energy path

Clean energy is no longer our future – it’s already here. Thailand must act fast or risk falling further behind. Solar and wind power energy are booming across the world, yet Thailand continues to rely heavily on fossil fuels. The country is falling behind in the clean energy race – but it’s not too late to catch up.

The climate crisis is deepening. International pressure to cut emissions is growing. Across the world, countries are accelerating their transition to clean energy. Continued …

Mixed response to solar panel bill

A new bill to promote solar panel installation is drawing mixed reactions from businesses, with the latest comment from the Thai Photovoltaic Industries Assn. identifying possible loopholes in the draft.

The association’s positive response followed a comment made on social media by politician-turned-entrepreneur Treerat Sirichantaropas, chief executive of New Energy Plus Solutions, which sells solar panels manufactured by Shanghai-based Jinko Solar Holding. Continued …

Thailand’s Refining Industry Transitioning Toward Clean Energy Goals

Thailand’s refining industry is undergoing a significant transformation as part of the country’s broader clean energy transition, driven by ambitious climate goals and global market demands.

The nation has set targets for carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065, with the energy sector, including refining, playing a critical role due to its substantial contribution to emissions. Continued …

  • British Onlyfans mum nabbed at Spanish airport with £200k in weed – Continued …
  • American Arrested in Pattaya for Attempting to Exchange Fake US Dollars – Continued …
  • Russian National Arrested at Phuket Airport Over Alleged Cyber Fraud – Continued …

Zimbabwe to cull elephants and distribute meat to people

Zimbabwe will cull dozens of elephants and distribute the meat for consumption to ease the ballooning population of the animals, its wildlife authority said yesterday. The southern Africa country is home to the second-biggest elephant population in the world after Botswana. Continued …

Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

          • Emergency hotline – 191
          • Emergency medical services – 1554
          • Water accident – 1196
          • Motorway hotline – 1586
          • Emergency medical – 1669
          • Highway police – 1193
          • Tourist police – 1155
          • Bus ticket – 1490
          • Department of Highways – 1586
          • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, chiang mai, covid, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, thailand islands, tourism

Tuesday’s news-June 3

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Centara Golf World Masters/Why Thai food bags hard to untie/Expats question Thailand’s commitment/Reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses/4.5 magnitude quake hits Chiang Mai/Collapsed building’s questionable history/Dying child visits Moo Deng/Narathiwat Bomb and Gun Assault/Bt22,000 for coffee/Chiang Mai zoo to welcome pandas/65,000 new Covid cases, 3 deaths/Thai Chicken as NASA Astronaut Food/Makro expands own-brand food/ECONOMY: Can Thailand engage with Trump’s US?/Adapt to Four Major Disruptors/Listed firms see profits rise/Thai Exports Jump/Bt10 billion for non-performing loans/Thai Entertainment Boom/Motorcycle sales uptick/TOURISM: Upgrades to Thai tourism sector/Tourism Safety Measures/Saying goodbye to Pattaya’s Walking Street/New hotel law/Crackdown on Taxi Drivers/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Wild Elephant With a Sweet Tooth/Thai fruit festival/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Centara Golf World Masters returns Sunday

Thailand’s sun-drenched fairways and luxury hospitality await once more as the Centara World Masters Golf Championship prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary from June 8-14.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Hua Hin, this year’s tournament is poised to welcome over 450 golfers worldwide. Competitors will tee off across three of Thailand’s most revered courses: Black Mountain Golf Club, Pineapple Valley, and Springfield Royal Country Club – each a jewel in the region’s golfing crown. Continued …

Why Thai food bags are so hard to untie and how to do It right

If you’ve ever visited a Thai street market or grabbed a quick takeout, you’ve probably seen vendors expertly seal their food bags with rubber bands.

Video 

It’s a skill that might seem simple but requires precision and practice to ensure the bag is sealed tightly without spilling a drop. This is especially important when carrying soups, curries, or other liquid-based dishes. Continued …

Despite safety campaigns, many expats still question Thailand’s commitment to real change

As Thailand rolls out sweeping new safety and service measures to reassure visitors, not everyone is convinced it’s enough — or even sincere.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced this week a multi-pronged campaign to restore tourist confidence across the country (see article below). Safety reinforcements include 24/7 patrols at tourist hotspots, improved airport support, the 1155 tourist police hotline, and a real-time assistance app. Officials were also quick to deny recent kidnapping rumors, calling them baseless and unrelated to tourism. Continued …

How to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses in Thailand

Managing medical expenses in Thailand is important as healthcare costs continue to rise. The country’s healthcare system includes both public and private options, but even with the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) for citizens, many still face high out-of-pocket medical expenses.

This guide offers practical tips to help reduce these expenses, such as choosing the right health insurance, focusing on preventive care, and using available resources. Whether you’re a long-term resident or new to Thailand, these strategies can make quality healthcare more affordable and easier to access. Continued …

No damage found at 11 dams after 4.5 magnitude quake hit Chiang Mai

The Royal Irrigation Department has inspected 11 dams in Chiang Mai province following a 4.5 magnitude earthquake that occurred yesterday in Phrao District. The department confirmed that all dams remain strong, stable, and 100% safe.

At 2:07 pm, the earthquake struck the northern province with the epicenter located 1 kilometer deep. Following the quake, the department quickly responded by inspecting dams in the province to ensure the safety of the public and the country’s water management. Continued …

Collapsed Bangkok building had questionable history

The collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building has come under renewed scrutiny following a recent news report detailing longstanding irregularities in the construction project, which began in 2009.

According to the Isra News Agency, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) last year found grounds to allegations against former Auditor-General Khunying Jaruvan Maintaka and others regarding a 25.8-million-baht design contract linked to the project. Continued …

Dying child was granted final wish, to visit Moo Deng

A terminally ill six-year-old whose biggest dream was to visit the pygmy hippo Moo Deng at Khao Kheow Open Zoo has passed away, having been granted his dying wish. The child was known affectionately as “Auto”.

Moo Deng’s keepers recounted how late last year a medical team reached out to the zoo with a special request. A child diagnosed with late-stage cancer had one final dream – to see his favorite animal, Moo Deng, in person. Continued …

Narathiwat Bomb and Gun Assault Leaves Ranger Dead

Violence erupted in Rueso district, Narathiwat Province, when unknown assailants launched a coordinated attack involving a car bomb and gunfire, resulting in the death of a paramilitary ranger.

At around 20:10, a group of armed militants detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) targeting a civilian vehicle and simultaneously opened fire with automatic weapons on a security checkpoint located in front of the operations base of Ranger Company 4614, situated in Suwari subdistrict, Rueso district. Continued …

Foreigners accidentally pay Bt22,000 for coffee

Two foreigners accidentally paid more than 22,000 baht for two coffees at a cafe in Nakhon Ratchasima province and left without realizing it, but the story ended happily. The incident occurred Saturday at the Mount Wind Tree Cafe in Nakhon Ratchasima province.

According to the café, the two foreigners were cyclists and stopped there for a coffee. They settled the bill by bank transfer using a phone, and had accidentally overpayed by a huge amount. Continued …

Chiang Mai zoo to welcome 2 new pandas from China

Chiang Mai Zoo is preparing for the arrival of two new pandas from China. The pair is expected later this year, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said during an event celebrating the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations on May 28.

Assoc. Prof. Jessada Yonawanik, chairman of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand (ZPO), on Sunday led a team to inspect the areas at the zoo in Muang district to be used as habitats and exhibition zones for the pandas. Continued …

Thailand logged 65,000 new Covid cases, 3 deaths last week

Thailand recorded 65,880 Covid-19 cases and three deaths in the last week of May but the outbreak was waning from its yearly peak, according to the public health minister. Minister Somsak Thepsuthin said yesterday the new cases and fatalities were recorded from May 25 to 31.

People aged 30-39 formed the biggest group of new cases, 12,403, followed by 10,368 in their 20s, and 9,590 aged 60 and over. The disease was spreading naturally in the rainy season, the minister said. Continued …

Thai Chicken Secures Historic Place as NASA Astronaut Food

“Thai chicken” is poised to make a historic journey into the cosmos, marking the first time that food from Thailand will be consumed in outer space. Dishes featuring Thai chicken have been rigorously selected by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as part of the astronaut diet for the Axiom Mission 4 space flight.

The mission is scheduled to lift off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, on June 9 at 19:45 Bangkok time. This upcoming mission will see astronauts from various nations travel to the International Space Station (ISS). Continued …

Makro expands range of own-brand food

Makro, a leading wholesaler under CP AXTRA Plc, is forging a new path in food retail through the expansion of its Own Brand portfolio. With a focus on consumer-centric innovation, the company is reimagining how value, quality and experience come together, in a bid to shape the future of food in Thailand and beyond.

To meet fast-evolving consumer expectations, particularly the growing demand for affordable, high-quality ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook options, Makro is expanding its offering of chilled, frozen, and ambient Own Brand food items. Continued …

Can Thailand engage with Trump’s US?

Thailand must be bold and dynamic in recalibrating its diplomatic ties with the United States under President Donald Trump. Asia’s oldest relationship with Washington carries little weight in the era of transactional diplomacy.

Although the 1833 Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the U.S. and Siam described their relations “as long as heaven and earth can endure”, the two countries now face formidable challenges in living up to that 192-year-old oath. That treaty was the United States’ first treaty with a country in Asia, making Thailand America’s oldest friend in the region. Continued …

Bangkok Bank Chief: Thailand Must Adapt to Four Major Disruptors

Chartsiri Sophonpanich, president of Bangkok Bank, delivered a stark message at the elite+ Magazine 11th Anniversary Dinner, emphasizing that Thais cannot afford complacency as the nation grapples with an aging society, the middle-income trap, and four major disruptors.

Speaking to an audience of local business leaders and ambassadors, Chartsiri acknowledged, “We have to face it. Thailand’s economy is not doing well.” Despite the domestic challenges, Chartsiri highlighted a positive outlook for ASEAN, noting its increasing attractiveness as an investment destination and the bloc’s trajectory to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2030. Continued … 

Listed firms see profits rise but sales decline

Thai listed companies reported a mixed earnings picture for the first quarter of 2025, with overall net profits rising on the back of a strong performance in consumption and services-related sectors, while overall sales and operating profits declined due to pressure from falling oil prices and sluggish energy demand.

According to the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), 812 of 829 listed companies, representing 97.9% of those required to report, have submitted their first-quarter financial statements. Of these, 605 companies, or 74.5%, recorded a net profit. Continued …

Thai Exports Jump 10.2% in April

Thailand’s export sector continued its strong performance in April 2025, posting a 10.2% year-on-year increase and marking the 10th consecutive month of growth.

The monthly export value reached $25.625 billion, underscoring the resilience of the Thai economy amid global trade uncertainties and concerns over potential U.S. tariff impacts. Stripping out oil, gold, and military-related exports, growth remained solid at 7.1%, supported by sustained demand for industrial and agro-industrial products. Continued …

Bt10 billion planned to clear non-performing loans

Thailand’s debt issue has long been a key factor hindering economic growth, affecting people’s consumption capacity. By the end of 2024, household debt in Thailand was estimated at approximately 16.4 trillion baht, making up 88% of the country’s GDP.

While the debt-to-GDP ratio has decreased, the total debt remains high and continues to be an obstacle to economic expansion. Over the past two years, the government has attempted to address the debt issue through various programs, including resolving informal debt, restructuring loans, and providing low-interest loans. Continued …

Thai Entertainment Boom Forecast to Top Bt601 Billion in Revenue

Thailand’s entertainment sector is soaring, with projected revenues exceeding 601.94 billion baht by 2025, as its TV formats, films, series, and unique music genres capture audiences across four continents and drive significant international licensing deals.

According to PwC’s Global Entertainment & Media (E&M) Outlook 2021-2025 report, Thailand’s media and entertainment sector is poised to generate an estimated Bt601.936 billion in total revenue in 2025. Continued …

Motorcycle sales see 3.8% uptick in April

Domestic motorcycle sales slightly improved in April, attributed to sales promotions targeting prospective buyers keen on purchasing a new model, said the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Sales increased 3.8% year-on-year to 131,950 units in April, driven by attractive pricing, the FTI noted.

During the first quarter of this year, the market faced a sluggish domestic economy, a decline in tourist arrivals from China, and concerns over economic uncertainties caused by U.S. President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariff policy. Continued …

Call for major upgrades to Thai tourism sector

The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) will this week submit a letter to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra requesting improvements to the tourism industry in order to compete at the global level. “Thailand must be upgraded to become a sustainable and high-quality tourism destination,” said Chai Arunanondchai, president of the TCT.

The industry creates over 4.4 million direct and indirect jobs, but it is now facing global uncertainty, such as geopolitical conflicts, along with concerns over tourism safety in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand Ramps Up Tourism Safety Measures

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is intensifying efforts to make Thailand a safer and more reliable destination for international visitors, with a range of new safety and service measures now being rolled out nationwide.

Department of Public Relations officials said the move was designed to restore tourist confidence in the country following concerns raised by recent online rumors, which the ministry has confirmed were unfounded and unrelated to the tourism sector. Continued …

Why long-term visitors are quietly saying goodbye to Pattaya’s Walking Street

For decades, Pattaya’s Walking Street has reigned as Southeast Asia’s unapologetic playground: neon lights, pounding music, and a carnival of chaos where anything felt possible — or at least purchasable. It was the kind of place that made tourists feel they’d stumbled into a fever dream, and long-term visitors felt like they’d hacked life itself. But now, that dream is wearing thin.

Once the heart of Pattaya’s after-dark pulse, Walking Street is increasingly being bypassed by long-time expats and seasoned travelers. Some are quietly bowing out, others not so quietly venting their frustrations online. The consensus? Walking Street has lost its charm — or rather, it has been drowned under the weight of its own excess. Continued …

New hotel law raises safety concerns

The Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) has raised the alarm for property owners over a new draft law for hotels, warning it could infringe on the rights of residents and compromise tourist safety, which is already a blemish for Thailand.

The draft of the Hotel and Overnight Accommodation Act was submitted to the THA this month for comment. The association expressed disagreement on key issues, said Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the THA. Continued …

Tourist Police Crack Down on Bangkok Taxi Drivers Exploiting Foreign Visitors

The Tourist Police Bureau has launched a targeted operation against taxi drivers in Bangkok who exploit tourists, resulting in the arrest of 26 individuals in key tourist hotspots, including Siam Square and the Grand Palace.

The operation is aimed addressing growing complaints about dishonest practices among some taxi drivers in the capital. Officers were deployed to Siam Square, a major shopping and entertainment district popular with international visitors and to the area in front of the Grand Palace, one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Continued …

Wild Elephant With a Sweet Tooth Strolls Into Shop

A mischievous wild elephant known for his frequent jaunts through local villages has taken his snack-hunting antics to a new level, by walking straight into a neighborhood grocery shop in broad daylight.

The elephant, named Plai Biang Lek, is a familiar figure to residents living near Khao Yai National Park. However, his unexpected appearance inside a small grocery shop in Nakhon Ratchasima Province yesterday afternoon marked a first, even for him. Continued …

Thai fruit festival slated for June 19-22

The Department of Internal Trade (DIT) plans to host a Thai fruit festival this month featuring a durian buffet to promote domestic fruit consumption. Wittayakorn Maneenetr, director-general of the DIT, said the festival is scheduled for June 19-22 at Siam Square in Bangkok.

The event is to showcase and sell fresh and processed fruits sourced directly from farmers and entrepreneurs. The highlight of the festival is an all-you-can-eat durian buffet, which is expected to attract young consumers and foreign tourists. Continued …

  • Drunken Foreign Tourists Assault Thai Woman, Locals Step In with Brutal Response – Continued … 
  • Foreigner Sparks Debate in Patong After Public Urination Incident – Continued …
    • Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

      (We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

      Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

      For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

      Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

      Bus Tickets 

      New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

      Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

      (We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

      Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

      Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

      Hua Hin train schedule

      To book online

      Van/minibus service at Market Village

      Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

      • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
      • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
      • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
      • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
      • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

      The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

       

      90-day online reporting

      Emergency hotline numbers:

          • Emergency hotline – 191
          • Emergency medical services – 1554
          • Water accident – 1196
          • Motorway hotline – 1586
          • Emergency medical – 1669
          • Highway police – 1193
          • Tourist police – 1155
          • Bus ticket – 1490
          • Department of Highways – 1586
          • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, covid, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-June 2

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National Community Forest Day in Prachuap Khiri Khan/Monk expelled in Pranburi/Fair pricing or farang pricing?/State hospitals face mounting debt/Learn how to live with floods/Bangkok girds for big rains/Border Talks with Cambodia/Dispute with Cambodia escalates/Smoking rate drops/Thai beauty Miss World 2025/Pattaya’s road safety crisis/ECONOMY: Stalled cash handout scheme sours voters/Industrial output up/Krungsri forecast cut to 2.1%/Pride Month sparks growth/Parcel Wars Enter New Era/Fruit harvests aren’t bringing profits/Influencers told to pay tax/TOURISM: Too expensive for tourists?/Litter at wildlife reserve/Pattaya needs ‘better’ tourists/To boost secondary Thai cities/How new Covid wave Impacts Travel/THAI drops direct US flight plans/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: To showcase Thai Identity/Bangkok best city for remote work/Bangkok hop-on hop-off bus tour/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand and China Boost Solar Ties/Officials catch ‘toxic waste kingpin’/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Smuggling marijuana not a good idea/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Thailand marks ‘National Community Forest Day 2025’ in Prachuap Khiri Khan

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment held the National Community Forest Day 2025 event this past weekend in Prachuap Khiri Khan province to advance Thailand’s efforts in aligning community forest management with national climate and sustainability goals.

Held at Pattawia Resort and Spa in Pran Buri district, the event supports the country’s targets to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065. Continued …

Monk expelled after being caught visiting motel for sex with woman in Pranburi

A 68-year-old monk has been expelled from the monkhood after being caught on video changing into civilian clothes and entering a short-stay motel with a woman in broad daylight in Pranburi.

The incident came to light after a TikTok user posted footage of the monk, whom they claimed to recognize from his regular alms rounds in the area. The man, seen wearing a cap, patterned T-shirt, and black shorts, was recorded riding pillion on a motorcycle with a woman before the pair entered a motel. Continued …

Fair Pricing? More like farang pricing

The phrase “fair pricing” in Thailand, especially in tourist hubs like Pattaya, often feels more like the setup to a joke than a serious policy. For many expats and long-term visitors, the punchline comes when they discover the well-known but rarely addressed practice of dual pricing — where foreigners are charged significantly more than locals for the exact same services, attractions, or even basic necessities.

It’s a system so normalized that it’s often posted in plain sight. Visit a national park? Thais pay 40 baht. Foreigners? Try 200. Go to a public hospital? Locals get subsidized rates, while foreigners — regardless of visa status or years spent living, working, and paying taxes in Thailand — face inflated bills. Even some temples and museums apply it, despite being funded in part by public money. Continued …

Health ministry admits state hospitals face mounting debt

The Ministry of Public Health has acknowledged that mounting financial debt in Thailand’s state-owned hospitals has become a severe challenge that is affecting healthcare services nationwide.

Ministry officials plan urgent discussions with the National Health Security Office (NHSO), which runs the country’s universal healthcare program, to tackle the crisis. Continued …

Northern Thailand told to learn how to live with annual floods

Last year, floods in Mae Sai district of Chiang Rai province caused economic losses in the millions. Experts say this could be the beginning of an annual pattern of damage caused by severe natural disasters.

In May alone, Mae Sai, a border town opposite Myanmar’s Tachileik to the west and 900 kilometers north of Bangkok, flooded twice. A mass of water from the Sai River rushed through the city. Gold and rare earth mining in Myanmar was said to be the culprit, as well as mega-scale single crop plantations. Continued …

Bangkok girds for big rains

As Thailand officially enters the 2025 monsoon season, concerns about prolonged heavy rainfall and potential flooding are rising, particularly in Bangkok.

Already, fears abound that this year will bring severe floods after early rainfall levels appear unusually high. Meteorologists, however, warn that climate conditions remain unpredictable, requiring close monitoring throughout the season. Continued …

Thailand Ramps Up Border Talks with Cambodia to Ease Tensions

Foreign Minister Maris Sangiamphong has confirmed that urgent efforts are underway to resume bilateral border negotiations with Cambodia following a recent skirmish between troops from both nations.

Maris addressed the incident involving Thai and Cambodian forces on May 28. He expressed regret over the confrontation and assured that Thailand’s response would adhere strictly to both international and domestic law. Continued …

Task force mobilized as dispute with Cambodia escalates

Thailand’s Burapha Task Force, which oversees the Thai-Cambodian border, has moved its troops and weapons to a police compound in the border province of Sa Kaeo, in readiness for any possible border emergency.

Major Gen. Benchapon Dechatiwong na Ayutthaya said yesterday’s relocation is intended to reassure the public that, if a conflict arises at the border, the army will be there to protect them. Continued …

Thailand’s smoking rate drops 48% in 33 years

Thailand has successfully decreased its smoking rate by 48% over the past 33 years, yet tobacco use continues to impose a significant economic burden on low-income households. This was highlighted by the Action on Smoking and Health Foundation (ASH) during World No-Tobacco Day Saturday.

Chairman Doctor Prakit Vathesatogkit, referencing data from tobacco consumption surveys between 1991 and 2024, noted that the smoking rate among Thai adults dropped from 32% in 1991 to 16% in 2024. The most substantial decline occurred in the northern region, with a 58% reduction, whereas the southern region experienced the smallest decrease at 29%. Continued …

Thai beauty queen crowned Miss World 2025

Thai beauty queen Suchata “Opal” Chuangsri was crowned the 72nd Miss World 2025 on Saturday, marking a historic moment in Thai pageantry.

The event took place at the HITEX Convention Center in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. She was officially crowned by last year’s winner, Krystyna Pyszková of the Czech Republic. Continued … 

Helmet ticket hikes alone won’t fix Pattaya’s road safety crisis

As Pattaya gears up for the new 2,000-baht fine for not wearing a helmet, questions swirl over whether stiffer penalties will actually curb the city’s alarming rate of road accidents — or simply pad government coffers.

With one of the highest per-capita rates of motorbike accidents in Thailand, Pattaya’s roads have become a daily gamble for both tourists and locals. Authorities hope the tougher fines will scare riders into compliance. But critics argue it’s a band-aid solution on a system that needs surgery. Continued …

Thailand’s stalled cash handout scheme sours voters

Rungthiwa Pimphanit waited months for a long-promised cash handout of 10,000 baht from Thailand’s ruling party, which she backed in 2023 elections, but now the scheme to stimulate a stalling economy has been put on ice.

“I’m very disappointed and angry,” said the 34-year-old government employee from the northeastern province of Nong Bua Lam Phu, who had counted on the money to pay for her son’s school supplies. “There’s no way I will vote for them again.” Continued …

Local industrial output up after 9-month decline

Industrial output has turned positive for the first time in nine months, with the automotive sector rebounding after a 21-month slump, says Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul.

The Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) rose by 2.2% year-on-year in April, marking its first positive growth in nine months. This signals the start of a potential recovery in the manufacturing sector, which has remained a persistent weakness in the economy in recent years. Continued …

Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1%

Research by Krungsri has revised Thailand’s economic growth forecast for 2025 to 2.1%, down from an earlier estimate of 2.7%. This adjustment comes amid layered risks, including U.S. trade policy uncertainties and domestic pressures.

Pimnara Hirankasi, head of economic research and executive researcher at Bank of Ayudhya Public Co., highlighted mounting pressures on Thailand’s economy from both domestic and international factors. A significant concern is the U.S.’s variable and uncertain import tariff adjustments. Continued …

Thailand embraces the rainbow economy as Pride Month sparks growth

Thailand is among several countries expected to benefit from positive sentiment surrounding the rainbow economy during the Pride Month celebrations in June.

The rainbow economy is experiencing rapid and powerful expansion, particularly in the tourism, entertainment, and lifestyle sectors. This growth is largely driven by the LGBTQIAN+ community, which is estimated to comprise between 400 and 800 million people worldwide, accounting for 5%–10% of the global population. Continued …

Thailand’s Parcel Wars Enter a New Era

The fiercely competitive landscape of Thailand’s courier, express, and parcel (CEP) market is entering a profound period of consolidation.

Following an unprecedented boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, when online shopping became an indispensable part of daily life and attracted a swarm of new domestic and foreign entrants, the sector now finds itself in a ruthless culling phase. Continued …

Bumper fruit harvests aren’t bringing tidy profits

Mangoes have been selling at Huai Khwang Market for as low as 20 baht per kilogram recently. Pikul, a vendor, said she cannot remember the last time mangoes were so cheap. “I’ve never seen prices so low. This situation is really hurting farmers. Mango growers are in trouble — I feel for them,” said Pikul, who has worked at her stall for decades.

Her fruit comes in fresh each morning from the Simummuang wholesale market, but by evening she is forced to sell overripe mangoes at giveaway prices or simply discard them. Continued …

Influencers told to pay income tax

Influencers are being urged to pay their taxes accurately to avoid penalties and interest on unpaid tax liabilities. According to Pinsai Suraswadi, director-general of the Revenue Department, some influencers lack knowledge of tax obligations, while others deliberately evade taxes.

For tax evasion, he said the department strictly enforces the law and imposes a fine of double the tax amount in cases where no tax return is filed, and a fine equal to the underpaid tax amount if a return is filed but incomplete. Continued …

Is Thailand becoming too expensive for tourists?

Despite welcoming over 13.4 million international visitors in the first five months of 2025, Thailand is facing a deeper, more uncomfortable question: Where’s all the money going — and is the country on the right track?

According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, foreign tourists contributed 632.9 billion baht between Jan. 1 and May 18. On the surface, this sounds like a booming recovery — even though total arrivals are down 1.75% compared to last year. But behind the glossy numbers and headline-grabbing festivals lies a more serious conversation: Is Thailand truly reinvesting in its future, or is it stuck in a short-term profit loop? Continued …

Litter at wildlife reserve: ‘Humans can be so disappointing’

A visit to a wildlife reserve took a frustrating turn for one TikToker after she discovered trash littered across the reserve. In a video, content creator Toni Payne (@officialtonipayne) points out discarded paper plates, a foil tray, takeaway containers, and even an egg carton — all left behind on the ground.

“I cannot begin to say the amount of trash that I have walked across just coming here to film today. It is ridiculous,” she said in the video. Continued …

Pattaya needs tourists who can afford to stay, spend, and return

Tourist numbers may be up, but Pattaya’s economy tells a different story. On paper, the arrivals look promising. In reality, local businesses — from hotels to restaurants to massage parlors — are struggling. Why? Because volume doesn’t equal value.

The truth is uncomfortable: Pattaya doesn’t need more people stepping off the plane. It needs visitors who can actually afford to stay, spend generously, and want to come back. Continued …

New route, airline policy to boost secondary Thai cities

Thailand’s Transport Ministry has fleshed out its “New Route-New Airline” initiative to promote aviation tourism to secondary cities by cutting carriers’ landing and parking fees in those provinces.

Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri said the Department of Airports (DoA) wants to encourage more tourists to visit secondary cities. ”The measure will entice carriers to operate more routes to DoA airports in secondary cities.” Continued …

COVID-19’s New Wave And How It’ll Impact Travel

Post the Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variants of COVID-19 that surfaced during 2020-2022, a new sub-variant of the virus, LP.8.1, has emerged. With rising cases predominantly in the Eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and western Pacific regions, the COVID-19 virus has prompted renewed public health and travel measures. Between May 18 to 24, 2025, alone, Thailand recorded 53,563 cases with five deaths.

“The newer variants, like JN.1 and the recent FLiRT, seem to spread more easily but generally cause milder symptoms, especially in people who are vaccinated or have had COVID before. Unlike Delta, which often affects the lungs and causes serious illness, the current variants tend to remain in the upper respiratory tract. Think sore throat, fatigue, mild fever, or congestion. But for older adults or people with health conditions, the risks are still real, so caution is important,” shares Dr. Paresh Sharma (Mahatma Gandhi Hospital, Jaipur, India) . Continued …

THAI partners with airlines, drops direct US flight plans

Thai Airways International (THAI) has reaffirmed its readiness to attract American tourists to Thailand through collaboration with airline partners, despite shelving plans for direct flights to the United States.

THAI CEO Chai Eamsiri explained that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recently upgraded Thailand’s aviation safety rating from Category 2 (CAT2) to Category 1 (CAT1), placing it among countries that meet international aviation standards. Continued …

Six National Symbols to showcase Thai Identity to the World

Thailand has officially declared six national symbols that reflect the essence of Thai identity, spanning nature, architecture, and cultural beliefs, to promote national image and pride on the global stage.

These symbols are intended to strengthen the country’s soft power and present a clearer image of “Thainess” internationally. The selected symbols represent living creatures, natural emblems, traditional design, and cultural practices. Continued …

Bangkok tops global list as best city for remote work

Bangkok has been ranked the world’s best city for remote work, according to a recent report by the New York Post, based on a global index developed by experts at QR Code Generator.

Scoring 69.98 out of 100, the Thai capital stood out for its high-speed internet and affordable cost of living, making it the top choice for digital nomads and remote professionals. Continued …

Explore Bangkok’s landmarks with ease: Hop-on hop-off bus tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok and want to see the city’s most iconic landmarks in a fun and flexible way, the Elephant Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is the perfect choice.

Video 

This unique sightseeing experience lets you explore 16 must-visit attractions across the city with the convenience of unlimited rides throughout the day. Continued …

Thailand and China Boost Solar Ties to Cut Energy Costs

Minister of Energy Pirapan Salirathavibhaga has concluded a five-day visit to China to strengthen cooperation in clean and renewable energy, with a focus on solar technology.

He led a delegation to Jiangsu province and Shanghai, meeting with top solar firms to explore ways to reduce electricity costs and expand access to sustainable energy. The delegation held talks with six major companies involved in solar panel production, inverters, energy storage, and energy-management systems. Continued …

Officials catch ‘toxic waste kingpin’

A major figure behind the illegal trade of hazardous waste has been caught operating three companies involved in processing and exporting toxic industrial dust in violation of multiple laws, the Ministry of Industry said.

Minister of Industry Akanat Promphan appointed a special task force to investigate 11 steel factories using induction furnace (IF) technology in Rayong. The probe followed the closure of Sin Ke Yuan Steel and NFMR Co. in Rayong province for using forged hazardous waste transport documents and falsifying waste reporting. Continued …

Young Brits find smuggling marijuana not a good idea

Two British lads who jetted off for a three-week party spree in Thailand were met with a nasty surprise when they touched down in the UK. Lewis Ellis and James Poutch faced an unexpected detour at Manchester Airport, leading to court appearances due to their return baggage.

Ellis, 20, and Poutch, 19, had ventured to Southeast Asia for the Water Festival in April – a time for ushering in new starts and washing away woes. However, UK customs discovered a hefty 37 kilos of drugs wrapped in plastic within their luggage upon their return. Continued …

  • Chonburi Police Chief Orders Crackdown After Chinese Gang Shooting – Continued …
  • Algerian Pickpockets Arrested in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Tip-Off Leads to Arrest of Chinese Scammer Hiding in Bangkok Condo – Continued …
  • Man arrested at Mumbai airport for carrying venomous snakes from Thailand – Continued …

OPEC+ announces sharp increase in July oil production

Saudi Arabia, Russia and six other key OPEC+ members announced on Saturday a huge increase in crude production for July. They will produce an additional 411,000 barrels a day — the same target set for May and then June — according to a statement, which is more than three times greater than the group had previously planned. Continued …

2 Fans Died, Officer In a Coma after Champions League Celebrations

Two fans died and a police officer is in a coma after mass nationwide celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League victory, European soccer’s biggest prize, French authorities said yesterday. Continued …


  • New Schedule: Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

    The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

    (We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

    For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

    Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

    Bus Tickets 

    New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

    Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

    (We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

    Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

    Hua Hin train schedule

    To book online

    Van/minibus service at Market Village

    Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

    • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
    • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
    • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
    • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
    • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

    The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

     

    90-day online reporting

    Emergency hotline numbers:

        • Emergency hotline – 191
        • Emergency medical services – 1554
        • Water accident – 1196
        • Motorway hotline – 1586
        • Emergency medical – 1669
        • Highway police – 1193
        • Tourist police – 1155
        • Bus ticket – 1490
        • Department of Highways – 1586
        • State Railway – 1590