Hua Hin strengthens flood prevention/Surfing in Hua Hin?/Trash Hero Hua Hin marks 500th clean-up/Breath test refusal equals drink-driving/Thailand Logs 839 Fire Hotspots/AI Technology Reads X-Rays/Isan sausage drying criticism/Man arrested for burning dog/A Pet-Friendly Nation- ECONOMY: Exporters warned of market tariff turmoil/Chamber Urges Swift US Tariff Talks/US warns partners to honor tariff deals/Asian economies weigh tariff moves/Reassess ‘chronic economic illness’/B579-billion Rail Investment Plan
- TOURISM: ‘Thank You Thailand’ Trend/Third in taxi scam complaints/Pattaya bustles/Phuket to Host Three Global Conferences/Phra Nakhon Khiri festival opens
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s backpacking expiration date/Among world’s 20 most liveable countries
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Chiang Rai: A Sustainable Tourism Revival/Bangkok launches new electric water taxi
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Hua Hin strengthens its flood prevention plan
A new flood prevention plan for Hua Hin moved forward on Friday as the deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province led a multi-agency inspection aimed at reducing long-standing flood risks in the city.
On Saturday, Prateep Boriboonrat, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, together with Royol Chitradon, secretary-general of the Hydro-Informatics Institute (HII) Foundation under Royal Patronage, and the provincial water resource management working group, met officials at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course to review measures designed to strengthen flood prevention in Hua Hin City Municipality. Continued …
Surfing in Hua Hin?
Huahin Surf Paradise 2026 created a lively atmosphere at Hua Don Beach over the weekend, as surf lovers from across Thailand gathered in Hua Hin for two days of competition, music, and community activities aimed at strengthening the country’s water sports scene.
The event marked the festival’s fifth consecutive year and coincided with the 20th anniversary of Rising Creation Co. The event was originally initiated by the Pineapple Surf Club team to highlight Hua Don–Hua Hin Beach as a viable surf destination capable of standing alongside more established locations. Continued …
Trash Hero Hua Hin marks 500th clean-up milestone
Trash Hero Hua Hin marked its 500th clean-up on Feb. 15, reaching a milestone for one of the town’s longest-running volunteer-led environmental initiatives.
The 500th clean-up took place at Khao Takiab, in front of the Phra Yuen area, where 22 volunteers spent one hour removing litter from the shoreline and surrounding public spaces. In total, they collected 66 kilograms of waste, including five kilograms of recyclable materials. Continued …
Breath test refusal equals drink-driving
Police have warned that a refusal to take a breathalyzer test will be treated as equivalent to drink-driving.
Deputy national police chief Samran Nualma said the directive follows the 2026 traffic discipline policy, which prioritizes the rigorous enforcement of traffic laws nationwide. He said drink-driving poses severe risks to public safety and must be addressed with transparency and consistency. Continued …
Thailand Logs 839 Fire Hotspots, Half Are In Forest Areas
Thailand recorded 839 fire hotspots Saturday, according to satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), with more than half detected in forest areas. The figures, gathered by the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system, underline continued concerns over haze and PM2.5 pollution.
Regional hotspot levels in neighboring countries remain significantly higher, raising the risk of cross-border haze depending on wind direction. Continued …
Siriraj AI Technology Reads X-Rays With 95% Accuracy
The Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital at Mahidol University has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) program to interpret lung and chest X-rays with accuracy above 95%, comparable to specialist radiologists. The system has already been used in more than 500,000 real patient cases. It can deliver results in under 10 seconds per case, significantly speeding up diagnosis.
The innovation was created by Siriraj’s Department of Radiology and was first developed during the Covid-19 pandemic to manage high patient volumes. Work on the system has continued beyond the pandemic, refining its performance and expanding its clinical use. Continued …
Isan sausage drying outside draws online criticism
One of Thailand’s most popular northeastern dishes, Isan sausage, has become the focus of an online debate after photos of a roadside vendor’s drying process circulated widely on social media.
Yesterday, a Facebook user shared images showing sausages being hung out to dry in the sun at a relatively low height above the ground. The post questioned hygiene standards, noting that the stall was located at an event where other vendors were unloading goods, raising concerns about dust, ground-level contamination, and air pollution. Continued …
Thai man arrested for beating and burning Siberian Husky in Songkhla
Police in Songkhla arrested a Thai man for beating and burning a Siberian Husky on Feb. 13. The suspect said he acted in retaliation after the dog attacked his rooster.
The two-year-old female Husky, Molly, escaped from her home in Songkhla, along with another dog, Betsy. Betsy was later returned home safely. Molly was found in critical condition after being beaten and burned, before escaping to a water pond where she remained until she was discovered. Molly was taken for treatment under royal patronage in Bangkok but died from her injuries on Friday. Continued …
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
Thailand is quickly becoming a pet-friendly country, as more young couples and city residents now choose pets over children, as birth rates fall and lifestyles change.
This trend, often called “pet parenting,” is reshaping daily life. As a result, the pet economy is growing fast, and brands, property developers, and advocacy groups are adjusting to keep up. Continued …
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Exporters warned of market turmoil after Supreme Court scraps Trump tariffs
The Thai Trade Center, Los Angeles, under the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, has assessed that Thai businesses linked to exports to the United States will face major disruption after the US Supreme Court, in a 6–3 decision, ruled that President Donald Trump’s executive order invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose “reciprocal tariffs” was unconstitutional and beyond the executive branch’s authority.
The Thai Trade Center said the ruling will force US-bound exporters, US importers and retailers to make significant adjustments to business processes to align with a court-ordered shift in the trading system. Businesses must also prepare for new forms of import-tariff policy that are expected to follow in the near future. Continued …
Thai Chamber Urges Swift US Tariff Talks
The Thai Chamber of Commerce has urged the government to accelerate trade negotiations with the United States after President Donald Trump announced an increase in the global import duty from 10% to 15%.
Chamber Chairman Poj Aramwattananont warned that the US “tariff game” is not over and said higher duties would raise costs, increase planning uncertainty, and heighten currency risks for Thai exporters. The chamber said tariffs are likely to remain a strategic policy tool with spillover effects on exporters and global supply chains, including Thailand. Continued …
US warns partners to honor tariff deals as Trump shifts tactics
Senior U.S. officials have confirmed that President Donald Trump’s defeat at the U.S. Supreme Court over import tariffs will not cause trade agreements negotiated with U.S. allies to collapse. The officials were defending the administration’s aggressive trade policy.
Those agreements — reached with partners including China, the European Union, Japan and South Korea — remain in effect, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said yesterday. He tried to distinguish those deals from the 15% global tariff Trump announced on Saturday. Continued …
Asian economies weigh latest Trump tariff moves
US trading partners in Asia started weighing fresh uncertainties on Saturday after President Donald Trump vowed to impose a new tariff on imports, hours after the Supreme Court struck down many of the sweeping levies he used to launch a global trade war.
The court’s ruling invalidated a number of tariffs that the Trump administration had imposed on Asian export powerhouses from China and South Korea to Japan and Taiwan, the world’s largest chip maker and a key player in tech supply chains. Continued …
Government warned to reassess ‘chronic economic illness’
Being labeled the “sick man of Asia” has forced Thailand to reassess the long-standing problems causing its “chronic economic illness”. However, as the new government is expected to mirror the previous administration, the business sector doubts whether the repackaged leaders can rouse the country from its economic slumber, particularly regarding needed structural reforms.
Thailand actually risks becoming a “dead man” if the new government bases its selection of cabinet members on political quotas, said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Continued …
SRT Approves B579-billion Rail Investment Plan
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has approved a 579,135-million-baht investment framework for fiscal year 2027, advancing three major rail projects, including double-track lines, Red Line extensions, and the Thai–Chinese high-speed railway Phase 2.
The decision was made at a board meeting lastw eeek. The proposal will be submitted to the Ministry of Transport before further consideration by the National Economic and Social Development Council and the Cabinet. Continued …
‘Thank You Thailand’ Trend Goes Viral with Tourists
A new social media trend has gone viral as foreign tourists conclude their visits to Thailand by posting “Thank you Thailand” videos, drawing widespread attention online. The clips show visitors bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed accounts of their trips.
Many travellers use the videos to summarize their experiences in detail. They recount how many days they spent in Thailand, how many steps they walked, and how much money they used during their stay. Some also specify the number of tuk-tuk and Grab rides they took, visits to 7-Eleven, Thai massages received, and plates of pad Thai and mango sticky rice consumed. Continued …
Thailand ranks third in taxi scam complaints
AllClear, a UK insurance company, has revealed research showing that taxi scams can occur anywhere and at any time, particularly when visitors appear unfamiliar with local fares. Since Decembe, the travel insurer has analyzed more than 450 Reddit posts and over 30,000 comments discussing taxi scams to identify the countries attracting the most complaints.
The study found that travelers are most likely to report problems in Turkey, which generated 4,224 comments — nearly double the figure for India in second place with 2,301 comments. Thailand ranked third with 2,169 comments, followed by Vietnam (1,741), Egypt (1,715), Australia (1,598), Mexico (1,367), Morocco (1,329), the United States of America (1,283), and Canada (995). Continued …
Pattaya bustles as foreign arrivals hit 130,000 a day nationally
Pattaya’s beachfront has returned to a lively, international atmosphere as Thailand’s peak tourism season gathers pace, with large numbers of foreign visitors flocking to the city each day. A recent on-site survey by reporters found beaches and public spaces busy with overseas tourists, underscoring renewed momentum in Thailand’s tourism recovery — particularly in major destinations favored by international travelers.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, foreign arrivals to Thailand have continued to rise since late 2025, reaching around 100,000 visitors per day before climbing further to approximately 130,000 daily in recent weeks. The increase reflects the impact of proactive tourism promotion, targeted marketing tailored to different source markets, and enhanced safety measures aimed at restoring traveler confidence. Continued …
Phuket to Host Three Global Conferences in 2026
Phuket has secured three major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events in 2026, reinforcing its status as a world-class meetings destination and advancing global agendas on sustainability, wellness, and diversity.
The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) confirmed the island will host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026, the InterPride General Meeting & World Conference 2026, and the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) 2026. Continued …
Phra Nakhon Khiri festival opens in Phetchaburi
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, accompanied by his wife Thananon Niramit, Saturday presided over the opening of the 39th “Phra Nakhon Khiri – Mueang Phet” festival at Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park in Phetchaburi.
The annual event, held through March 1 at Phra Nakhon Khiri, also known as Khao Wang, aims to promote tourism and celebrate the province’s cultural heritage under the theme “Heavenly Palace of Phra Nakhon Khiri, Gem of Siam.” Continued …
Thailand’s backpacking era now has an expiration date
Soon enough, it appears the comfort of Thailand will be as marked up as any other run-of-the-mill overseas getaway. Price gouging and skyrocketing hotel rates are, of course, obvious reasons why tourists may be reconsidering spending the Thai baht. But the shift seems intentional.
As per a recent report, Thailand has been carefully recalibrating its pitch to the traveling demographic. Lisa of Blackpink being announced as the “Amazing Thailand Ambassador” is arguably the best specimen of this, followed by the tourist-led economy’s doubling down on wellness circuits and mega-scale events. Continued …
Thailand named among world’s 20 most liveable countries
The world’s most liveable countries tend to share a similar mix of strengths: impressive architecture, thoughtful urban planning, and cultures shaped by artistic expression. Creating a “liveable” destination is not necessarily tied directly to GDP or military power; instead, a sustained focus on design can play a meaningful role in improving quality of life.
Architectural Digest’s round-up of the “best countries to live in” for design lovers uses the latest US News & World Report “Best Countries in the World” ranking as a starting point, selecting 20 countries viewed as the strongest for design from that broader list. Continued …
Due to toxic pollution, Chiang Rai switching rivers for tourism
The landscape of northern Thailand has long been defined by its arterial waterways, but the story of Chiang Rai tourism is currently being rewritten out of necessity. Following a challenging period of environmental degradation and recurring natural disasters, the Mae Yao Subdistrict Administration is implementing a strategic shift in travel focus.
While the region has traditionally focused its aquatic festivities on the prominent Kok River, a shift to the Mae Yao River — a clean, untainted tributary — is now being promoted. This initiative was formalized at a recent community leaders and stakeholders meeting, with the primary goal of transforming a contamination crisis into a sustainable tourism opportunity. Continued …
Bangkok launches new electric water taxi with free trial rides
Step aboard Bangkok’s new electric water taxi and experience a cleaner, greener way to move through the city! Enjoy FREE trial rides until Feb. 28 via the MUVMI app and be among the first to try this fresh urban travel option.
Operating daily from 9 am–5 pm. Up to 6 passengers per boat. Route: Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem–Bang Lamphu. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Facing a fabulous ocean isn’t enough these days for an ambitious coastline. A glittery tag, like Gold, Sapphire, Emerald or d’Azure, is a branding imperative. Thailand came up with a real winner for its Gulf shoreline – the Royal Coast. And then forgot to tell the world.
Thailand will enter its hot season on Sunday. Summer storms could start right away and temperatures in some northern provinces may reach a peak above 42 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department.
The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (NDPMC) has ordered all provinces to step up preparedness to prevent and address drought in 2026, stressing efficient water management — especially securing reserves for household consumption. Provinces have been instructed to draw up contingency plans and survey backup water sources to minimize impacts on the public.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has issued a warning to the public about a fraudulent Facebook page using its initials to trick individuals into paying for driving licenses without the need for exams or in-person applications.
The government has ordered nationwide enforcement of stricter firearm regulations, instructing registrars to more rigorously scrutinize gun license applications and suspending the issuance of carry permits.
Thailand is ranked ninth globally for online fraud losses, with more than 27 billion baht lost in 2025 and victims suffering average losses of 37,000 baht per person. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has warned that cybercrime will become more complex in 2026, particularly through the use of AI Deepfake technology.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has reported on the progress of the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027). Particularly in the first two years of the plan, despite efforts to drive various initiatives, the distribution of economic opportunities across sectors has not effectively reduced regional disparities, especially in addressing poverty.
Thailand needs an economy that delivers better wages, secure jobs, and real competitiveness. But today’s trade and investment rules stand in the way. Without reform, the country risks falling behind in an increasingly cut-throat global economy.
The Thai economy could continue its growth trajectory and expand by 3% a year if the incoming Bhumjaithai-led coalition administration can complete its four-year term, say economists, though they warned any disruption in government formation might cause GDP growth to slide below 1.5% this year.
Yesterday, the Department of Tourism, through its Thailand Film Office, participated with an exhibition booth at the European Film Market 2026 (EFM 2026) in Berlin. The aim was to promote Thailand’s potential as an international filming destination, while pushing for continued foreign film production in Thailand to generate sustained income for the country.
Siamese freshwater crocodiles released in Kaeng Krachan
Thailand’s automotive industry is navigating its most profound transformation in 0 years, as the nation moves away from its traditional reliance on internal combustion engines (ICE). While the country remains the “Detroit of Asia” and holds a prestigious production rank of 10th globally, its domestic market was historically defined by the dominance of 1-ton pickup trucks.
On the 30th floor of the Chartered Square building in downtown Bangkok, the low-key office of Skyhub Technologies serves as a nexus for a burgeoning and contentious trade. The space, rented out by a serviced office provider, is visited only rarely by the company’s sole director and occasionally by Chinese nationals, according to building staff who asked not to be identified speaking about clients. 
A ride-hailing driver posted a touching experience on the “Grab Car Driver Club Thailand” Facebook group, declaring: “I want 10 more jobs like this”. The first image showed the journey details – from Huai Khwang to Phra Khanong. The second revealed the adorable passenger: what appeared to be a long-coat Chihuahua.
The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows Thailand scored 33/100 and ranked 116th globally — below the world average of 42. The index, released by Transparency International, placed Thailand 116th out of 182 countries and territories, down one spot from 2024 when it scored 34.
The cabinet has been instructed to start preparing to void a 25-year-old memorandum of understanding (MoU) used by Thailand and Cambodia as a framework to settle their overlapping maritime boundaries.
Chula Researchers Transform Thai Silk into Medical Innovation
Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to seek approval from Thailand’s next cabinet for two major airport expansion projects worth a combined 269 billion baht, covering Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.
Thailand’s once-robust manufacturing sector is facing a protracted slowdown, with factory capacity utilization hovering below 60% for the past two years, raising concerns about the country’s economic competitiveness and industrial policy effectiveness.
If the incoming coalition government implements its IT policies as pledged during the campaign, it should increase revenue growth of system integrator and data center businesses by 5.8% year-on-year to 260 billion baht this year, says Krungthai Compass, a research unit under Krungthai Bank.
The cabinet yesterday endorsed a comprehensive visa package proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and stimulate the economy.
Chinese New Year in Thailand: A National Celebration and a Regional Travel Magnet
As Thailand enters the post-election period, many foreign tourists and long-term visitors say their expectations are not focused on political personalities or campaign rhetoric, but on practical changes that shape daily life, travel decisions, and confidence in Thailand as a long-stay destination. Conversations among foreign residents and repeat visitors consistently return to the same themes: clarity, fairness, and predictability.
If people used to talk about tourism in the past, it may have meant a short break and a change of scenery from everyday life, a brief moment of happiness that recharged the body before returning to normal routines. Today, however, tourism is shifting from “temporary rest” to “a long-term investment in health”.
With Chinese New Year approaching next week, Pattaya tourism operators expect similar conditions as last year. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said Pattaya operators expect a large number of foreign tourists for the holiday, particularly from long-haul markets, accounting for 80% and helping the occupancy rate near 90%.
Phuket is preparing to welcome a surge of visitors during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, with a month-long program of events beginning today aimed at stimulating early-year tourism and generating more than 600 million baht in revenue.
Picture this for a moment. You’ve worked decades, paid into Social Security your entire adult life, and when retirement finally arrives, the monthly check lands somewhere around $1,800. In many parts of the United States, that barely covers rent. It’s frustrating, I know.
13 Mouth-Watering Thai Dishes You Need To Try
Kintetsu World Express has taken another step toward cleaner operations by installing a solar power generation system at its warehouse in Prachinburi Province. The project has been carried out by its local subsidiary, KWE-Kintetsu World Express (Thailand) Co., as part of the group’s wider push toward decarbonized and sustainable business practices.
Planned or under-construction solar and wind projects slowed last year, analysis showed yesterday, casting doubts on whether countries will hit a goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030. Dozens of nations agreed in 2023 to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of efforts to limit global warming.
At least 10 people died yesterday in a remote part of western Canada, including seven who were shot at a secondary school and two others found dead at a residence, federal police said. Twenty-seven people were injured. An individual believed to be responsible for the killing in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, was found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury. 
Noise pollution is affecting bird behavior across the globe, disrupting everything from courtship songs to the ability to find food and avoid predators, a large-scale new analysis showed today. 
Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete
The Bhumjaithai Party of caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has won 174 House constituency seats, followed by the People’s Party with 87, and 58 for the Pheu Thai Party, according to the Election Commission.
PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.
Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.
As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.
Residents near the Chong Chom border crossing in Surin province say they are preparing for a possible third round of fighting, citing daily provocations by Cambodian troops and rising insecurity, with some households ready to evacuate. The comments came as uncertainty along the Thai–Cambodian border continued to affect local communities and cross-border trade.
A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.
Bhumjaithai has outlined an export policy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional markets and strengthening SMEs to compete globally.
Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.
The United States will enforce a 25% import tariff on certain advanced AI chips, effective Jan. 15. This applies globally, including imports from Thailand. The tariff targets high-performance processors such as Nvidia’s H200 and AMD’s MI325X, aiming to strengthen domestic chip manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Some exemptions apply, including chips used in U.S. data centers, research, and startups, which will face a 0% tariff initially.
Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed
The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.
Thailand’s tourism industry enters 2026 at a complex and delicately balanced moment. The long-anticipated rebound in Chinese arrivals has fallen short of official forecasts, while breaking news of a virus outbreak in India and Nepal now threatens to disrupt one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets. Together, these developments point to a tourism sector moving beyond recovery and into a period of structural adjustment.
Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.
I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms
Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too
They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.
What a difference a single year makes. The once-dominant push to radically reshape society to avert climate catastrophe has collapsed. Look at Davos – the talkfest long dominated by climate advocacy. That consensus has been abandoned by its once strongest proponents.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China. 
Thailand is facing a “perfect storm”, as a low birth rate, persistent poverty, and a rapidly aging society place mounting pressure on the tax base, welfare system, and social structure, says the Equitable Education Fund (EEF).
Ahead of the Feb. 8 election, various political parties in Thailand have expressed their support for sex workers, pledging to enhance protection and dignity under the law in a nation where prostitution remains illegal.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported yesterday that PM 2.5 levels in Bangkok have exceeded the safety limits in all districts.
Thailand’s economy in December expanded from the previous month, supported by higher merchandise exports, particularly technology-related and agricultural products. Private consumption, especially in services, improved following government support measures.
Private consumption indicators in Thailand climbed 2.5% month-on-month in December, rebounding from a 0.3% fall in November and marking the sharpest rise since April 2022. Gains were broad-based across all spending categories, with growth in services spending led by hotels and restaurants, partly supported by government stimulus measures.
The rapid emergence of instant commerce in Thailand, a retail evolution defined by delivery within a few hours, will become the new battlefield for on-demand players and e-commerce platforms, say brands.
According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness economy has been continuously growing. In 2024, it was valued at US$6.8 trillion, increasing to US$7.3 trillion in 2025, and expected to reach US$7.9 trillion in 2026.
Gold prices hit a record high above $5,500 due to US-Iran tensions, with expectations of the Federal Reserve moving to rate cuts, pushing the baht to strengthen below 31 baht per dollar, the strongest in almost five years.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is calling for Thailand to expand into new high-potential markets to support the country’s export and manufacturing sectors, as key trading partners face economic weakness amid a global slowdown.
Thai durian exports are expected to face several hurdles due to labor shortages and a lack of collection centers during the harvest season. Durian supply is forecast to reach 1.78 million tons this year, with the eastern region contributing 1.06 million tons, or 59.5% of total output.
Thai gold prices on Saturday were down by 1,200 baht per baht-weight (15.2 grams), as a global and local correction continued after a surge to record highs earlier in the week.
This year is being seen as a “structural turning point” in business, as the combined pressures from the climate crisis, technological advancements, and demographic changes make the concept of “sustainability” no longer just a policy for improving image. It has become the new foundation for growth, competitiveness, and long-term survival for businesses.
Thai EV charging service provider Sharge has partnered with Grab to build a dedicated charging network for the company. It plans to invest over 400 million baht in the project.
Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman has warned that the rest of the world is starting to pull away from the United States, driven by frustration with President Donald Trump’s threats, and that the shift will ultimately leave Americans poorer. 
Japan will expand overtourism countermeasures from 47 to 100 areas nationwide as it positions inbound tourism as a core strategic industry after foreign visitor spending hit a record 9.5 trillion yen in 2025. 
Authorities are tackling forest fires near Hua Hin after satellite data detected multiple hotspots over two consecutive days in forest areas toward Cha Am, prompting concern among local residents about air quality.
Prachuap Khiri Khan has announced a province-wide burning ban, prohibiting all forms of open burning from Feb. 1 (Sunday) to May 31, as authorities move to curb PM2.5 pollution and protect public health.
Thailand will see two nationwide alcohol sales bans linked to the upcoming parliamentary elections, covering all provinces.
The Nipah virus (NiV) is a severe infectious zoonotic disease, primarily affecting South and Southeast Asia, that presents a high mortality rate, estimated between 40% and 75%. First identified in 1999 during an outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore, NiV is a priority pathogen due to its fatality rate and the current lack of approved vaccines or specific treatments.
Government measures to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are expected to help increase monetary circulation in the economy by at least 260 billion baht this year, says the chief of Thai Credit Guarantee Corp. (TCG).
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has announced a vehicle manufacturing target of 1.5 million units for 2026, a modest increase from 1.45 million units last year, driven by expectations of stronger domestic demand and growing production of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
The influx of low-priced goods from China has a far more severe impact than US tariffs on Thai products, says Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Tech consulting firm Bluebik foresees three megatrends that will transform organizations into intelligent enterprises amid a volatile economy and intense competition.
China aims to attract at least 1.5 million Thai visitors this year, up from more than 1 million in 2025, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects to generate 35.4 billion baht from 1.25 million foreign tourists during the 10-day Chinese New Year holiday next month.
AirAsia issued an apology following a coordination issue that left 23 passengers on a shuttle bus during boarding for a domestic flight from Bangkok to Hat Yai. The incident occurred on Jan. 17 on a flight scheduled to depart Don Mueang International Airport.
Bangkok ranks first as the world’s favourite city for digital nomads, with Chiang Mai close behind. It’s easy to see why. Thailand has a magnetic charm that pulls people in. You come for a short stay, rent a scooter, find a café with fast Wi-Fi, and before you know it, you are talking about “base cities” and lease renewals.
New plug-and-play solar panels are making home solar more accessible for both homeowners and renters. A “PBS NewsHour” segment showcased how plug-and-play solar panels work and how they have made solar power affordable for many people who previously thought that home solar was unattainable.
The Rice Department is advancing carbon farming as a nationwide strategy to make rice production more sustainable and to support the country’s long-term carbon neutrality goals.
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing today, seeking closer trade ties while balancing sensitive issues of national security and human rights. This is the first visit to China by a UK prime minister since 2018 and follows a slew of Western leaders seeking support from Beijing recently, pivoting from an increasingly unpredictable United States. 
Global gold prices jumped to a fresh all-time high, breaking above $5,400 an ounce, after former US President Donald Trump warned Iran to reach a nuclear deal and the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, as expected. 
The Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026 will be held Feb. 4-7 at Rajabhakti Park in Hua Hin, with the Royal Thai Army working alongside tourism and provincial authorities to showcase Muay Thai as a key part of Thailand’s cultural heritage.
Seriously harmful levels of ultrafine dust, three times the safe limit, were reported in Greater Bangkok this morning, while most of Thailand was blanketed with unsafe smog.
Thai gold shops face closures as prices top 70,000 baht
Thailand’s hotel sector is shifting toward a more mature phase, which will see more of the country’s hotel assets repositioned to accommodate changing market dynamics.
Agoda, a digital travel platform, says Bangkok ranked second among the most popular Asian destinations for international travelers during the Chinese New Year period. Tokyo topped the list, followed by Bangkok, Taipei, Osaka, and Seoul.
Can Southeast Asia keep the lights on for solar projects as costs rise?
Phuket has long been synonymous with tropical splendor thanks to its world-famous beaches, emerald rainforests, and waters teeming with life. This profound natural beauty is the very soul of its allure. Yet, for years, the pressures of overtourism, relentless development, and pervasive pollution have threatened to unravel the delicate ecological balance that sustains this paradise.
French lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban social media use by under-15s, a move championed by President Emmanuel Macron as a way to protect children from excessive screen time. 
The Nipah virus is a dangerous infectious disease with a 50%-70% fatality rate and no specific cure. It can be transmitted from animals to humans, with fruit bats being the primary carriers, and can also spread from person to person through close contact with the infected person’s bodily fluids, such as saliva, urine, and feces.
The Department of Highways says it will wait for the outcome of a formal investigation into the collapse of a concrete beam and construction crane on Rama II Road before deciding whether to terminate its contract with Italian-Thai Development Plc, warning that the incident has already disrupted plans to open a major motorway project.
The deadly crane accident in Nakhon Ratchasima province last week was caused by on-site staff “failing to notify” that construction was underway, despite the contract requiring notice before trains pass, Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said yesterday.
Thai military and police discovered significant evidence of online scam operations at the Chong Chom–O Smach border crossing in Surin province.
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), presented a speech Thursday at the Leadership Program on Trade and Development Strategy (LTD), organized by the International Trade and Development Institute (ITD). He discussed five global megatrends that will shape the future of Thailand’s economy in the new global order.
Police in Pai district, Mae Hong Son province, are cracking down on public smoking of cannabis and cigarettes, particularly on the bustling Pai walking street.
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Thailand has sharply accelerated its climate ambitions, advancing its net-zero emissions target by 15 years to 2050 in an updated climate pledge released in November. The move signals Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy is positioning itself as a regional climate leader, but experts warn that political turbulence and entrenched fossil fuel interests could complicate execution.
Oil prices surged nearly 3% yesterday following the US decision to send a naval fleet to the Middle East and announce new sanctions on Iranian oil. The price hike was driven by increased geopolitical tensions after US President Donald Trump imposed new sanctions targeting Iranian oil transport vessels and announced the deployment of US warships, including an aircraft carrier and missile destroyers, heading toward the Middle East. 
China has just announced that births in 2025 plunged to 7.92 million, from 9.54 million the previous year, and almost half of what was projected (14.33 million) when the one-child policy was repealed in 2016. In fact, China’s births have fallen to a level comparable to that of 1738, when the country’s total population was only about 150 million. 
The Hua Hin Provincial Court has denied bail to “Sam”, the suspect in the brutal murder of a female hotel employee in central Hua Hin, citing the seriousness of the charges and concerns that he could flee if released.
Siam Legal International, a full-service law firm with over 22 years of experience advisinginternational clients in Thailand, has released its comprehensive guidance for foreign nationals and businesses navigating Thailand’s regulatory environment in 2026. The firm highlights several national developments that may influence administrative procedures, compliance expectations, and regulatory focus throughout the year.
The baht has again become a growing concern after strengthening rapidly. Yesterday, the baht continued to appreciate and broke below the 31.00 level against the US dollar, reaching a strong level of THB30.88 per US dollar.
In November, Thai merchandise exports reached USD 27.45 billion, growing 7.1% year-on-year (YOY), slightly above SCB EIC’s 7% forecast but below the Reuters median of 8.3%. Despite solid expansion, seasonally adjusted exports showed signs of slowdown, declining 2.3% month-on-month.
Thailand is participating in the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos to boost investor confidence and promote its economic policies, with a focus on digital economy investments. The event in Switzerland from Jan. 19–23 sees around 3,000 participants, including 64 heads of state.
Thailand’s commercial banking sector posted solid results in 2025, with the combined performance of 11 banks remaining at a healthy level: SCBX, Bangkok Bank (BBL), Kasikornbank (KBANK), Bank of Ayudhya (BAY), TMBThanachart Bank (TTB), Kiatnakin Phatra Bank (KKP), TISCO Financial Group (TISCO), Land and Houses Bank (LHFG), CIMB Thai Bank (CIMBT), Thai Credit Bank (CREDIT) and Krungthai Bank (KTB).
Thailand’s rice exports exceeded official targets in 2025, but the Ministry of Commerce has lowered its projection for 2026 amid intensifying global competition, currency volatility, and geopolitical risks. Officials say the focus next year will be on defending existing markets while expanding into selected new destinations to support farmer incomes and stabilize export volumes.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) latest promotional campaign, featuring pop icon Lisa of Blackpink, has drawn mixed reactions online, with critics arguing that the TAT has secured a “precious gem” but undermined her value through poor presentation.
Singha Park Chiang Rai marks 10 years of balloon fiesta
Hua Hin water supply issues were the focus of an urgent meeting held yesterday as city officials moved to address ongoing problems affecting residents, including supply interruptions, low water pressure, and concerns over water quality.
Rising treatment costs, combined with Thailand’s medical inflation in 2025 (estimated at 14%–15%), have prompted major insurers such as AIA and Krungthai-AXA to reduce the share of new lump-sum (all-inclusive) health plans for new customers.
Thailand’s Transport Ministry plans to include travel insurance in train ticket fares, aiming to provide automatic passenger coverage in accidents. This follows the fatal Nakhon Ratchasima crash, which resulted in 30 fatalities.
Marathon Teaching: The strained tasks of small school teachers
How is Thailand’s Dining Landscape Set to Shift?
Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has announced that 1,520 conventional buses will be converted into electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority’s (BMTA) ongoing modernization program.
The future of the electric vehicle Asia Pacific market is set for robust expansion, as the green mobility revolution transforms the regional automotive ecosystem. The Asia Pacific EV market was valued at USD 221.95 billion in 2022 and is forecast to grow to approximately USD 459.06 billion by 2029, registering a CAGR of around 10.94% over this period.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s intensified push to wrest sovereignty over Greenland from fellow NATO member Denmark has prompted the European Union to weigh hitting back with its own measures. 
Spanish police said yesterday that at least 39 people are confirmed dead in a high-speed rail collision the previous night in the south of the country, when the tail end of a train jumped the track, causing another train speeding past in the opposite direction to derail.