Category Archives: hospitality

bangkok, climate change, covid, hospitality, hua hin, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-June 2

  • Vehicle registration goes digital/
  • Chomsin Road improvements, expansion planned/
  • Heavy rainfall warning: 33 provinces hit, 70% of south Thailand to be impacted/
  • COVID makes comeback in Thailand as booster fatigue leaves door open/
  • Bangkok Bank raises interest rates on deposits and loans/
  • Coup-installed Senate not yet ready for Move Forward, sources say/
  • GPO touts new drug to help quit smoking/
  • Food delivery rider ‘delivers’ slap to pedestrian for blocking his path/
  • Economy: Challenges for Thai banking system lie ahead/HSBC Thailand prepares strategy for expansion/Hotel industry strong as global travel grows: Minor Group/Tesla changes gear in Thailand, opens service center, expands charging network/Chinese electric vehicle firms eager to join Thai business group/
  • Tourism: Move Forward to use tourism sector to boost economy/
  • Thailand Experience: This beach is Thailand’s best-kept secret/
  • International: El Nino may hammer Asian farms/US mass shootings spark fear, change lives and boost bulletproof backpack sales/
  • 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

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Vehicle registration goes digital

With digital technology now playing a role in just about every aspect of our lives, vehicle registration booking is the latest service to get a digital upgrade.

The aim is to reduce steps, increase convenience and efficiency, and enhance citizen satisfaction, government deputy spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek said yesterday, adding that the Department of Land Transport (DLT) is an agency extensively used by the public, especially for booking vehicle registration numbers through the internet system at the car registration number reservation website. Continued …

Chomsin Road improvements, expansion planned

In a bid to tackle traffic problems in downtown Hua Hin, the municipality has unveiled plans to expand and enhance Chomsin Road.

On Thursday, Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul, along with members of the Hua Hin Municipal Council, engineering staff from the Hua Hin Traffic Police Station, and representatives from the local community, gathered at the project site to discuss and explain the proposed road expansion to the residents and commercial property owners in the area. Continued …

Heavy rainfall warning: 33 provinces hit, 70% of south Thailand to be impacted

Heavy rainfall is expected in 33 provinces across Thailand, with the southern region facing a high risk of flash floods and landslides. The Thai Meteorological Department urges citizens to remain vigilant to sudden flooding from June 2 as 70% of the area is expected to experience torrential downpours.

The department has issued a 24-hour weather forecast warning of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in certain areas of the eastern and southern provinces. Residents in these regions are advised to stay alert to potential flash floods and forest runoff, especially in areas on hill slopes, near watercourses, and low-lying zones. Continued …

COVID makes comeback in Thailand as booster fatigue leaves door open

Thai authorities are stepping up campaigns encouraging people to roll up their sleeves and get booster shots, as COVID-19 makes a comeback.

The campaigns are designed to combat a new surge in cases, attributed to factors such as students returning for the new semester – but most importantly people’s declining immunity. Continued …

Bangkok Bank raises interest rates on deposits and loans

Following the Bank of Thailand’s decision to raise its policy interest rate on May 31 by 25 basis points to 2%, the Bangkok Bank Plc (BBL) today announced that it has raised interest rates for deposits and loans, effective as of June 2 amid the steady growth of the Thai economy.

According to BBL’s Executive VP, Suvarn Thansathit, the interest rates on deposits have been raised by 0.05-0.25%. The interest rate for savings deposits is now 0.60% per annum, while interest for 3-month fixed deposits is 0.95% per annum. Fixed deposits for 6 months now earn 1.05% per annum. Continued …

Coup-installed Senate not yet ready for Move Forward, sources say

The 250 senators appointed by the 2014 coup leaders remain a threat to the party that won the most seats in the May 14 election, Senate sources say.

A core group of senators loyal to generals Prayut Chan-o-cha and Prawit Wongsuwan are actively lobbying their peers not to vote for Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat to become Thailand’s 30th prime minister. Continued …

GPO touts new drug to help quit smoking

The Government Pharmaceutical Organization (GPO) has unveiled a locally developed cytisine — an alkaloid that occurs naturally in certain plants — that can help people quit smoking, reduce treatment costs and potentially save over 12 million baht in imported drugs.

Dr. Mingkwan Suphanpong, the GPO’s director, said there are more than 9.9 million people in Thailand over the age of 15 who are classed as frequent smokers. Continued …

Food delivery rider ‘delivers’ slap to pedestrian for blocking his path

A food delivery rider who violated the law by riding on a pavement slapped a pedestrian in the face because the victim blocked his path.

Two days ago, the victim, Kitti Panantanannon, shared a video of the moment when he was attacked. In the caption, he said, “He drove a motorcycle on the pavement at a high speed and asked me, a pedestrian, why I do not give him away. He even came back to attack me. The motorcycle also did not have a registration plate.” Continued …

Challenges for Thai banking system lie ahead

The Thai banking sector has encountered numerous challenges in the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis, particularly in dealing with debt issues to aid borrowers facing financial difficulties.

However, as the economy gradually recovers, businesses are adapting and aligning themselves with the returning normalcy. Continued …

HSBC Thailand prepares strategy for expansion

HSBC Thailand aims to raise fresh funds and secure an additional license in preparation for local business expansion in line with the country’s economic growth.

The bank is in the process of increasing its capital by 3.1 billion baht to 25.7 billion, said Chief Executive Giorgio Gamba. Continued …

Hotel industry strong as global travel grows: Minor Group

Minor Hotels is to add 65 hotels with more than 13,000 rooms by 2025 as part of its plans to maintain the group’s position as the largest in the hotel hospitality industry, Dillip Rajakarier, group chief executive of MINT and chief executive of Minor Hotels, told a media gathering on Thursday.

The move is part of the company’s strategic plan for long-term growth and is aligned with the global trends in travel, which, said Rajakarier, would see the hotel industry continuing to grow despite the poor state of the global economy. Continued …

Tesla changes gear in Thailand, opens service center, expands charging network

Tesla is set to open its first service center in Bangkok in July, having entered the Thai market only this year to primarily sell electric vehicles online.

However, the after-sales service aspect had been unclear. Recently, Tesla announced the official opening of its first service center, along with plans to expand the charging station network to seven locations. Continued …

Chinese electric vehicle firms eager to join Thai business group

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are keen to become members of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) to help drive the fledging EV industry in Thailand. Continued …

Move Forward to use tourism sector to boost economy

The Move Forward Party aims to use the tourism sector as a “quick win” formula to stimulate the economy, the party leader and prospective prime minister Pita Limjaroenrat said on Wednesday.

He noted, however, that the Thai tourism sector is still suffering from tourist congestion, as 70% of tourism revenue is generated in popular destinations like Bangkok and Chonburi. Move Forward wants to see foreign tourists visit more places by allowing them to stay in Thailand longer and encouraging them to spend more cash, and is planning to introduce a “homestay act” in a bid to offer more alternatives. Continued …

This beach is Thailand’s best-kept secret

Hua Hin has it all. International branded resorts, shopping, dining and activities for all ages. Some 200 kilometers south of Bangkok, it’s known for its safe beaches and family-friendly, authentic Thai feel.

Dubbed The Royal Coast, thanks to being a favorite with Thai royalty and elite, northern Europeans also know Hun Hin’s tropical charms, visiting in their winter to laze on the beach and sup on seafood. Yet it has remained under the radar for many visitors to Thailand. Here are seven of the best things to do in Hua Hin: Continued …

El Nino may hammer Asian farms

Early signs of hot, dry weather caused by El Nino are threatening food producers across Asia, while American growers are counting on heavier summer rains from the weather phenomenon to alleviate the impact of severe drought. Continued …

US mass shootings spark fear, change lives and boost bulletproof backpack sales

The increasing frequency of gun violence and mass shootings in the United States is impacting the lives of millions of Americans, causing anxiety and prompting changes in daily routines. With National Gun Violence Awareness Day approaching, around 60% of U.S. adults have discussed gun safety with their children or other family members, according to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-May 29

2 Comments

“Life is simpler when you plow around the stump.”

  • Residential market slows, new stimulus packages awaited/
  • Agriculture dept launches hunt for the best Thai coffee/
  • Diesel price will rise 5-baht/liter on July 21 if tax cut not extended/
  • Some Bangkok hospitals still have room for COVID-19 patients /
  • Convention center taxis draw fire for fares, rejections/
  • From sushi to salmon curry: Norwegian seafood makes its presence felt/
  • Thai residents use ancient ceremony for lottery prediction/
  • Deadly intersection sparks ghostly fears, Thai villagers hold exorcism ceremony/
  • Why Some Fear Thais Are Becoming Slave to the US/
  • Economy: Business groups back ‘fair growth’ principle/Thailand’s health tech industry valuable for the region/Putting clean energy in pole position/
  • Tourism: Thailand expected to delay launching of tourism tax – again/Thai geopark fusing prehistoric and natural wonders added to UNESCO list/Russian Tourist Drowns On Patong Beach/
  • Thailand Experience: 15 floating markets in Bangkok/Thai luxury hotel farms its own food, from eggs and bacon to bananas and mushrooms/Thai restaurants triple in Beijing as China’s craving for Thai cuisine surges/
  • International: Turkey’s Erdogan prevails in election test of his 20-year rule/China’s homegrown C919 makes first commercial flight/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Residential market slows, new stimulus packages awaited

Despite slowing inflation, the residential market in the first few months of 2023 has been sluggish, the real estate sector reports. Overall, the housing demand in Thailand has dropped and consumer purchasing power remains weak, although the sector is hoping to benefit from new government policies.

Leading property website DDProperty says higher interest rates are the main barrier for home buyers, resulting in a 2% decline in housing demand in the second quarter of this year. Continued …

Agriculture dept launches hunt for the best Thai coffee

The Department of Agriculture (DOA) is holding a contest for the best “sustainable coffee” in a bid to improve the quality of Thai coffee and bring it to international markets.

DOA Director-general Rapeephat Chantarasriwong said on Sunday that a similar contest had generated 1.3 million in revenue last year, especially from the sale of Arabic and Robusta coffee. Continued …

Diesel price will rise 5-baht/liter on July 21 if tax cut not extended

The pump rice of diesel will be increased by 5 baht/liter from July 21 if the caretaker government of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha or the new government, which is yet to be formed, does not extend the excise tax cut introduced on Feb. 18 last year.

Excise Department Director-General Ekniti Nitithanprapas said on Sunday that the caretaker government could seek approval from the Election Commission to extend the tax cut, adding, however, that the issue has not yet been discussed with caretaker Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith. Continued …

Some Bangkok hospitals still have room for COVID-19 patients

Hospitals under the supervision of the Department of Medical Services in Bangkok still have room to accommodate more COVID-19 patients, as only 22.4% of the beds are currently occupied, said Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, director-general of the department.

The department’s hospitals are Lerdsin, Rajavithi, Nopparat Rajathanee and the Central Chest Institute of Thailand. Continued … 

Convention center taxis draw fire for fares, rejections

Taxi drivers operating at the Muang Thong Thani convention center during the Thaifex international trade fair have come under heavy criticism on social media for overcharging passengers, rejecting Thai passengers and refusing to use their meters for both Thai and foreign passengers.

Some of the drivers have charged up to 5,000 baht for a trip from Muang Thong Thani to the Silom or Sukhumvit areas. Continued …

From sushi to salmon curry: Norwegian seafood makes its presence felt

Back in the 1980s, the Norwegian salmon industry found itself facing a major problem: it simply had too much salmon and not enough markets to which it could be sold.

After much head-scratching, they decided to resolve the problem by introducing “Project Japan” and set out to convince first the Land of the Rising Sun and then the rest of the world that salmon sushi and sashimi were the next big thing. Continued …

Thai residents use ancient ceremony for lottery prediction

Residents in Prachin Buri took part in a two-day ceremony involving a legendary giant spider to predict lottery numbers. They hope to win in Thursday’s June 1 draw, as the ritual has proven successful, reportedly bringing good fortune in lottery prediction.

On May 28, villagers performed the lottery prediction ritual using a legendary spider at the Non Somboon house in Muang Kao, Kabin Buri district, Prachin Buri province. The ceremony previously resulted in two successful predictions, using five floral bouquets and various candles and incense. The head of the household recited incantations for good luck and wealth. He placed the spider above the numerals 0-9 on three pieces of paper. Continued …

Deadly intersection sparks ghostly fears, Thai villagers hold exorcism ceremony

The deadly intersection known as the “100-corpse intersection” in Thailand‘s northern Phayao province has locals on edge, with frequent accidents and fatalities causing ongoing fear. Residents in the Wat Pa Lan Kam community have sought the help of monks to perform an exorcism ceremony in an attempt to ward off evil spirits associated with the so-called “spirit of the deceased.”

The ceremony, which involves the chanting of mantras by monks, aims to harness a positive energy to combat and expel the spirits of the deceased. According to traditional beliefs in the region, following the ceremony, these spirits will be reborn and will no longer haunt the area. Continued …

Why Some Fear Thais Are Becoming Slave to the US

Former silver-screen superstar Jarunee Suksawat’s warning that Thais may become “slaves of America” attracted front page news in many media and many readers, particularly young readers, who found it ludicrous and hilarious.

Perception is reality for some Thais, however, and this writer has little doubt that the former actress, who was featured in hundreds of films back in the 1970s and 1980s, was speaking, or ranting, from her heart judging from her paranoiac face. Continued …

Business groups back ‘fair growth’ principle

Key business groups welcome the Move Forward Party’s campaign promises to tackle economic inequality, but wonder if it can solve a problem that has long plagued the country.

Eight political parties signed a memorandum of understanding on May 22, outlining 23 points they intend to focus on when governing Thailand, including a unified mission to reduce inequality and ensure fair economic growth. Continued …

Thailand’s health tech industry valuable for the region

The Thai Health Tech Assn. (THTA) hopes the new government will help develop Thailand’s health technology industry to match its growth.

The association’s president, Phongchai Petsanghan, said on Saturday that the Thai health tech industry should grow by 15% this year. He also said Thailand’s healthcare data is valuable and the government should work on seeking benefits from it, like selling it, using it to attract investment or developing new technology. Continued …

Putting clean energy in pole position

Efforts to reduce carbon dioxide in Thailand are gathering momentum as the government and businesses forge ahead with clean energy development projects.

Using more renewable fuel sources to generate electricity and the government’s promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) are among various efforts to create new businesses, driven by a commitment to take greater care of the environment. Continued …

Thailand expected to delay launching of tourism tax – again

Thailand is expected to delay the launching of a 300-baht tourism tax once again. The launching has already been postponed from June to September. Still, new reports suggest that the launching might have to be paused until 2024.

Besides the 300-baht charge for visitors coming by air, the plan also includes a charge of 150-baht for travelers coming by sea or land. Continued …

Thai geopark fusing prehistoric and natural wonders added to UNESCO list

Khorat Geopark has become the second Thai geopark to be included among the 195 UNESCO Global Geoparks worldwide.

The geopark in Nakhon Ratchasima province (also known as Korat) was approved as a UNESCO geopark on May 17. Satun Geopark made the list on April 17, 2018. Continued …

Russian Tourist Drowns On Patong Beach

A Russian tourist drowned at Patong Beach on Saturday in the early morning. The victim was pulled up to the beach and was later identified as Rafaylovich Pavel, 53, a Russian national. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Emergency responders said they were notified of the incident at 7:30am by family members of the victim. Rescue workers took about 20 minutes before they found the foreign man floating in the sea. Continued …

15 floating markets in Bangkok

If you’re keen to see the real Thailand, visit one of the many floating markets in Bangkok and beyond. Although floating markets are right throughout Southeast Asia, the city of Bangkok and its surrounding suburbs are the most famous places to visit these markets.

With hundreds of wooden houses and stalls on stilts selling traditional crafts, souvenirs, clothing and more, they’re also a perfect spot to pick up something special to take home. Continued … 

Thai luxury hotel farms its own food, from eggs and bacon to bananas and mushrooms

When on holiday, fresh eggs cooked to order, creamy yogurt, delicate smoked salmon and crispy bacon are some of the breakfast ingredients many travelers have come to expect from the average luxury resort.

But it certainly adds another dimension to the indulgence to discover that most, if not all of this food has been grown or made at the resort. Being offered freshly laid duck eggs at the egg station is often the first indication that, at the Conrad Koh Samui, there is more to the food than the mass-procured fare typically served by a large hotel group. Continued …

Thai restaurants triple in Beijing as China’s craving for Thai cuisine surges

Thai cuisine’s popularity is surging in China, with the number of Thai restaurants almost tripling in the capital of the world’s most populous nation over the past three years, government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said on Saturday.

It is now the fourth most popular foreign cuisine in China, Anucha added, citing one of the country’s most popular applications, Dianping, which means “public reviews” in English. Continued …

Turkey’s Erdogan prevails in election test of his 20-year rule

Turkey President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday Turks had given him the responsibility of governing for the next five years, declaring Turkey as the only winner of a runoff presidential election. Continued …

China’s homegrown C919 makes first commercial flight

China Eastern Airlines on Sunday sent the country’s narrow-body jet C919 on its first commercial flight, marking the homegrown plane’s entry into passenger service and a milestone for China’s efforts to become more self-reliant. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

baht, covid, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-My 16

  • Move Forward Announces Six-Party Coalition/
  • Timeline to the formation of a new government/
  • Thai baht soars as voters back pro-democracy parties/
  • NESDC names economic challenges new government will face/
  • Social media pivotal in Moving Forward Party’s election victory, experts say/
  • Subsidy for household electricity bills can go ahead/
  • Is weight-loss surgery worth it?/
  • Covid-19 cases surge 39% in a week, public urged to take precautions/
  • Thailand’s economy poised to expand 3.7% this year/
  • Thai industrial estates ride the EV boom/
  • Polish National Arrested for Gruesome Murder and Dismemberment of Ukrainian Girlfriend/
  • Cops to arrest abettors of Aem Cyanide/
  • Tourism: This is what tourists to Hua Hin will look like in 2033/Tycoon’s property unit to boost spending on tourism boom/Cruise ship’s arrival in Phuket signals booming tourism uplift/TAT Unveils ‘Amazing Thailand Culinary City’ Project/
  • International: Argentina ramps interest rate to 97% as inflation soars/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Move Forward Announces Six-Party Coalition

Pita Limjaroenrat, leader and prime ministerial candidate of the Move Forward Party (MFP), has announced the formation of a coalition government comprising six parties, with a total of 309 members of Parliament (MPs).

In Sunday’s election, the conservative vote and long-standing patronage politics that have governed the country for a decade were swept away by what is being called the “Orange Wave.” Continued … 

Timeline to the formation of a new government

As Thailand ushers in another landmark moment in the country’s political history on Sunday, There is a timeline of events after the May 14 general election leading up to the formation of the next government.

Section 85 of the Constitution stipulates that the Election Commission must declare the official results of the election within 60 days of election day. If candidates or voters believe the election was unfair, they are allowed to file objections to the EC before or within 30 days of the release of the result. Continued …

Thai baht soars as voters back pro-democracy parties

The Thai baht hit a five-week high after pro-democracy parties came out as the biggest winners in Sunday’s general election after nearly a decade of military-backed rule in Thailand.

The baht rallied 0.9% to 33.70 against the greenback for the first time since April 5 after opposition parties Move Forward Pary (MFP) and Phue Thai won the majority of seats by a mile, paving the way for a coalition to wrangle power away from the military and back into the hands of the population. Continued …

NESDC names economic challenges new government will face

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has named four economic challenges the new Thai government must tackle this year.

Although the political landscape in Thailand has become clearer now the general election is over, there is still uncertainty about the parties that will form the new coalition government. Continued …

Social media pivotal in Moving Forward Party’s election victory, experts say

The 2023 election results have highlighted the significant role social media played in the Moving Forward Party‘s victory, as digital agencies and communication experts emphasize the importance of appealing content and social media engagement.

It has become evident that social media is not just an alternative channel for election campaigns, but a mainstream media channel, reaching 85% of the population, with Thai citizens spending an average of eight hours daily on these platforms, according to Pawat Ruangdejworachai, CEO of creative digital agency Media Intelligence. Continued … 

Subsidy for household electricity bills can go ahead

The Election Commission (EC) has approved the caretaker Cabinet’s proposal to spend 10.46 billion baht on subsidizing household electricity, election commissioner Thitichet Nutchanat said on Monday.

Under the measure, those who use up to 150 units of electricity will see a reduction of 92.04 satang per unit, while those who use 151 to 300 units will get a 67.04 satang per unit reduction (100 satang equals 1 baht). Continued …

Is weight-loss surgery worth it?

A female influencer surprised her followers by posting before and after photos and a video of herself after having a sleeve gastrectomy – a surgical weight-loss procedure. In the video, the influencer said that her previous weight was 86kg and she lost 18kg in three months following surgery.

The post received a lot of attention on the internet, especially from people who are having difficulty losing weight. However, many people opposed the post and commented that the influencer should have also provided details of any side effects that occurred, since sleeve gastrectomy is a major surgery. Continued …

Covid-19 cases surge 39% in a week, public urged to take precautions

The Department of Disease Control issued a public warning yesterday, alerting citizens to the resurgence of Covid-19 and urging them to take necessary precautions to protect themselves.

The director-general, Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, revealed that there were 2,356 Covid-19 inpatients last week, marking a 39% increase from the previous week. Continued …

Thailand’s economy poised to expand 3.7% this year

The Thai economy expanded by 2.7% in the first quarter of this year, nearly doubling from 1.4% in the previous quarter.

If economic conditions remain stable without a recession, a 3.7% GDP growth for this year is possible, the secretary-general of state agency National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), Danucha Pichayanan, said on Monday. Continued …

Thai industrial estates ride the EV boom

The electric vehicles (EV) market in Thailand is booming, in line with green energy trends, because they are environmentally friendly and offer cost savings as an alternative to fossil fuels.

The Thai government has been supportive of the EV industry and has implemented measures to promote the use of electric vehicles, through tax incentives and subsidies, to attract foreign EV manufacturers to set up factories in Thailand. These measures have also helped lower the prices of EVs in Thailand. Continued …

Polish National Arrested for Gruesome Murder and Dismemberment of Ukrainian Girlfriend

A Polish man allegedly murdered and dismembered his 25-year-old Ukrainian girlfriend “Alona” inside a condo room in the heart of Bangkok. He tried to flee the country via taxi yesterday but was arrested near the border of Cambodia in Sa Keao province last night.

Yesterday, police from Wat Phraya Krai Police Station were informed that the body of a Ukrainian woman was discovered in a condo room in Bang Khlo subdistrict in the Bang Kho Laem district of Bangkok. Continued …

Cops to arrest abettors of Aem Cyanide

Police will request arrest warrants from the court for associates of alleged serial killer Sararat “Aem” Rangsiwuthaporn, who advised and helped her destroy evidence of her crimes, according to the deputy national police chief.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Police Gen. Surachate Hakparn revealed that he hoped to be able to submit the case to the attorney general later this week. Continued …

This is what tourists to Hua Hin will look like in 2033

A study by Amadeus, the one of the world’s leading global providers of travel technology solutions, has given an insight into the tourist of the future.

Attendees at the May meeting of the Royal Coast Riviera Club saw a presentation from Anthony Hoglund, vice president and general counsel, Asia Pacific, for Amadeus, who revealed the different types of tourists who are most likely to visit Hua Hin and Thailand over the next decade. Continued …

Tycoon’s property unit to boost spending on tourism boom

The property and hotel development unit of Thailand’s richest man plans to invest at least 100 billion baht (US$3.1 billion) over the next five years to develop new shopping malls, hotels and office buildings, betting on pent-up demand once the pandemic subsides.

Asset World Corp.’s main project will be a mixed-use property development in Bangkok’s Chinatown, according to its Chief Executive Officer Wallapa Traisorat. It also plans to invest more at its Asiatique tourist-focused complex in the city, adding facilities including luxury hotels, she said. Continued …

Cruise ship’s arrival in Phuket signals booming tourism uplift

Yesterday, Phuket’s Makham Bay Customs dock was a hive of activity, as it welcomed the arrival of a massive cruise ship from Langkawi, Malaysia.

Spearheading the operation, Natchapong Pranit, director of the Phuket Regional Harbor Office, facilitated the docking of the ship, which brought with it over two thousand tourists to explore the province of Phuket. Continued …

TAT Unveils ‘Amazing Thailand Culinary City’ Project

The visionary initiative, aligned with the Thai government’s bio-circular-green (BCG) economy model, seeks to foster a creative economy by offering innovative and immersive experiences.

Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT deputy governor for marketing communications, elaborated, “The Amazing Thailand Culinary City project, developed within the framework of the BCG economy model, incorporates the AGFEC principles: agriculture, gastronomy, food safety, experience, and creative entrepreneurship. It promotes a circular economy and underscores our nation’s commitment to economic, social, and environmental sustainability.” Continued …

Argentina ramps interest rate to 97% as inflation soars

Argentina’s central bank hiked its base interest rate Monday by six points to 97% as the government prepares to announce a spate of measures to tackle soaring inflation ahead of October’s general election. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

covid, hospitality, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-May 6

  • Khao Tao developer Veyla expands into wellness sector/
  • Prachuap Khiri Khan braces for rainy season to start in mid-May/
  • Two storms to hit Thailand affecting Election Day/
  • Cyanide killings the deadliest in Thai crime history/
  • Thai couple hands over bag with lost 100,000 baht to police in Ratchaburi/
  • Cobra spits venom into Disaster Prevention officer’s eyes/
  • Massage parlor in northern Thailand raided for underage sex trafficking/
  • China Biggest Global Jailer of Journalists; Thailand Restricts Taboo Subjects/
  • Tourism: 1,000-baht departure tax proposed/Thailand urged to focus on wellness/Chinese arrivals could soar in May/
  • Thailand Experience: Narathiwat, a dream destination blessed by nature/
  • International: WHO declares end to COVID global health emergency/Britain ready for first coronation since 1953/US banks on edge after rate hike/German recession fears rise as factory orders plummet/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Khao Tao developer Veyla expands into wellness sector

Luxury holiday home developer Ideas 1606 Co., known for its Veyla brand, is planning to expand the brand into the wellness sector and explore opportunities to target the foreign market in popular tourist destinations.

Fifteen years ago, Prapavadee Sophonpanich, founder and chief executive, acquired a 4.5-rai plot of land in Khao Tao, Prachuap Khiri Khan, with the intention of developing a small vacation home project targeting Thai businessmen. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan braces for rainy season to start in mid-May

Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is bracing for the rainy season to start in mid-May. The Thai Meteorological Department predicts that the rainy season in Thailand will start around the third week of May 2023, with one to two tropical storms possibly passing through the northeastern and northern regions in August and September.

Thailand’s rainy season typically occurs from May to October, with the highest rainfall usually in September and October. Continued …

Two storms to hit Thailand affecting Election Day

Rangsit University’s Climate Change and Disaster Center expects two storms are set to hit Thailand next week, with potential impacts on Election Day, May 14.

The center’s director, Seri Suparatit, revealed yesterday that two storms – one originating in the Indian Ocean and the other in the South China Sea – are moving toward Thailand. Cyclone Mocha is currently producing heavy rainfall in the Bay of Bengal, while another tropical depression is beginning in the South China Sea near the Philippines. Continued …

Cyanide killings the deadliest in Thai crime history

The case of suspected serial killer Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, 36, could be considered the deadliest in Thailand’s crime history, as the alleged crimes were committed over four years without raising any suspicion in the relatives of the victims.

Sararat allegedly poisoned her victims, most of whom she knew personally, mixing the deadly chemical cyanide on items of consumption, such as food, beverages and medicines, posing difficulties for police in their investigation. Continued …

Thai couple hand over bag with lost 100,000 baht to police in Ratchaburi

An honest Thai couple discovered a bag with 100,000 baht inside in front of a shopping mall in the central province of Ratchaburi and notified the police so they can search for its owner.

Eighteen-year-old Kittisak “Zen” Thaweechokhirun, and his 18-year-old girlfriend, Potchathawat “Mali” Sabumuang, last night reported the cash-filled bag they found at a shopping mall to officers at Meaung Ratchaburi Police Station. Continued …

Cobra spits venom into Disaster Prevention officer’s eyes

A Siamese spitting cobra spat venom into the eyes of a Disaster Prevention officer in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeast Thailand yesterday. Rescue officers responded quickly and managed to save his life and eyesight.

At 7.40pm, the Hook 31 Rescue Unit was informed that someone was spat at by a cobra at Ban Tanot Village, Moo 2, Ban Pho subdistrict, Mueang district. Continued …

Massage parlor in northern Thailand raided for underage sex trafficking

Police swooped on a massage parlor in the northern province of Tak after a tip-off on underage sex trafficking. The owner of the parlor was arrested and two teenage Burmese girls were rescued.

The Anti-Trafficking In Persons Division Police (ATPD) received a tip-off that a Thai woman, 40-year-old Suphaporn Makaew, was operating an underage sex-trafficking racket behind her massage business. To verify the information, an undercover police officer posed as a customer as he visited the massage parlor, located on the Mae Sot-Umphang Road in the Mae Sot district of Tak. Continued …

China Biggest Global Jailer of Journalists; Thailand Restricts Taboo Subjects

China was the biggest global jailer of journalists last year, with 101 behind bars, according to Reporters without Boarders (RSF).

Starting with Xi Jinping, who secured a historic third term as China’s leader, ensuring a concentration of power never seen since Mao Zedong, so as to pursue the crusade against journalism he launched 10 years ago. Continued …

1,000-baht departure tax proposed

Thai outbound travelers and foreign permanent residents in Thailand have been asked for their opinion on a government departure tax of 1,000 baht in an attempt to prevent locals from spending excessively abroad, with the Revenue Department announcing online public hearings this week.

The department posted the public hearing questionnaire on its website https://www.rd.go.th/64115.html, saying it wants to listen to public opinion about an emergency decree on a departure levy, based on a law passed in 1983, in order to assess its impact. Continued …

Thailand urged to focus on wellness

Thailand’s health economy boasts very high growth potential, as the world is increasingly aware of the importance of health and self-care, according to a Commerce Ministry study.

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, said the office studied the opportunities for Thailand’s wellness economy and found growth potential given the world’s greater focus on health and self-care. Continued …

Chinese arrivals could soar in May

Chinese airlines are expected to increase the number of flights to Thailand to 430 per week starting on June 1, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).

CAAT Director Suthipong Kongpool said his office recently met with Chinese airlines to discuss their request for more flights for the summer schedule and it was initially agreed that the number would rise to 430 a week from the 100 permitted at present. Continued …

Narathiwat, a dream destination blessed by nature

Narathiwat is the easternmost of the four provinces in Thailand’s deep south, bordered to the east by the Gulf of Thailand and to the south by Malaysia. The coastal province, which evolved from fishing communities along the mouth of the Pak Bara River, is now known for its cross-cultural beauty, abundant nature, and local delicacies.

A visit ideally begins with Wat Chon Thara Singhe, a Buddhist temple in Tak Bai that serves as a demarcation between Thailand and Malaysia. The historic temple takes you back to 1909, when the Kingdom of Siam returned four northern Malaysian provinces to the United Kingdom. Continued …

WHO declares end to COVID global health emergency

The World Health Organization said Friday that COVID-19 no longer qualifies as a global emergency, marking a symbolic end to the devastating coronavirus pandemic that triggered once-unthinkable lockdowns, upended economies worldwide and killed at least 7 million people worldwide. Continued … 

Britain ready for first coronation since 1953

Charles III will be crowned king today in a solemn Christian ceremony steeped in 1,000 years of history and tradition, but adapted to reflect 21st-century Britain. Continued …

US banks on edge after rate hike

Economists warn that two more U.S. banks are on the verge of collapse after the Federal Reserve lifted its key interest rates by 0.25% this week, prompting stock prices of American lenders to drop sharply after the hike. Continued …

German recession fears rise as factory orders plummet

Industrial orders at German factories saw their biggest fall in March since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic in 2020, data showed Friday, the latest sign that Europe’s biggest economy is facing a steep downturn. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

covid, hospitality, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-May 1

  • Thailand’s original beach resort is 100/
  • Final weekend to see Phetchaburi salt piles/
  • Temperatures soar, headaches rise/
  • Thai Expert Explains High Electricity Bills in Thailand/
  • Annual Covid-19 booster shots planned for Thailand this year/
  • Chumphon beauty named this year’s Miss Grand Thailand/
  • More than four-legged friends/
  • Vote buying: The engine of corruption in Thailand/
  • Police say 14 people are thought to have died in serial cyanide poisonings/
  • Thai students recount dangerous escape from Sudan/
  • Video: Station master praised for saving elderly woman’s life/
  • Si Racha Badly Flooded With Some Cars Floating Away In Floodwaters/
  • Gunfight erupts during wedding, 13-year-old boy injured in crossfire/
  • Raid at a Pattaya hotel uncovers Indian gambling ring, 100 arrested/
  • Karen villagers can return to Kaeng Krachan National Park/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Thai Labor 2023 Survey: Increased Employment But Rising Debt/Wage hike pledges slammed/Thailand: Southeast Asia’s ‘weed wonderland’/All controls in place for cannabis use in Thailand: govt/From watermelon to weed: Thai farmers regret switching to cannabis as prices fall/
  • Tourism: Asia Pacific’s tourism industry to surpass pre-pandemic peak in 2025/TAT offers half-a-million-baht holiday in travel blogging contest/Market report predicts boom in Phuket hotel industry in next decade/Thailand’s ‘Inspector Beagles’ can be a smuggler’s worst enemy/
  • Thailand Experience: 15 Best Things to Do on Koh Tao/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand’s original beach resort is 100

All eyes were on the immaculately coiffed Cocoa as she slid from her lemon-colored sunlounger to strut beside the pool. Pausing to sniff the sea air, she unrolled a tiny pink tongue, and three more pomeranians bounded across, their owners trotting dutifully behind, waving treats and lining up photographs.

A lapdog pool party was probably the last thing I expected to see on a trip with my husband and two young daughters to Hua Hin. The original Thai beach resort is better known for attracting royalty and retirees, but as its oldest hotel turns 100, the resort town is out to prove that it’s still got it. And at the Standard, the newest luxury boutique hotel in Hua Hin, Instagramming is par for the course. Continued …

Final weekend to see Phetchaburi salt piles

Phetchaburi’s salt harvesting season comes to en end this weekend (May 6-8). The slat piles will be visible May 6-7, and the salt-carrying process starts May 8.

This is the last opportunity to witness the traditional salt harvesting for this season. Open from 7:30am to 5:30pm

Temperatures soar, headaches rise

Like other early birds, Dao Dul, 35, goes on duty at first light. For her, time is literally money. Her office is not a well-built weather-proof skyscraper. It is a makeshift cart that provides affordable dishes to hundreds of community residents from dawn to dusk.

It is not a long day, but the scorching summer is making her life unbearable. A couple of weeks ago, the city’s mercury peaked at 40°C. Continued ,,,

Thai Expert Explains High Electricity Bills in Thailand

Praiphon Koomsub, former dean of the Faculty of Economics at Thammasat University, explained an increase in the Thai power bills recently.

He said the increase actually started at the end of 2022, but people did not acknowledge it until March to April when the weather became significantly hotter, leading to an increase in electricity consumption and thereby a surge in power bills. Moreover, at the beginning of this year, the government adjusted the fuel tariff rate, which further increased the price. Continued …

Annual Covid-19 booster shots planned for Thailand this year

The Public Health Ministry in Thailand aims to make this year the first in which individuals receive annual Covid-19 booster shots, akin to the seasonal flu vaccine.

Deputy government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek stated yesterday that Thailand must continue to monitor Covid infections, particularly after cases spiked twice last week due to the global spread of XBB.1.16, a substrain of the Omicron variant. Continued … 

Chumphon beauty named this year’s Miss Grand Thailand

Thaweeporn “Aoom” Phingchamrat from the southern province of Chumphon bagged the Miss Grand Thailand 2023 crown on Saturday night. Tia Taweepakamphan from Phuket, Pimjira from Bangkok, Saenak Archaree Sirsuk from Loei and Ketuwalee Polbodee from Phrae were first, second, third and fourth runners-up, respectively. The new Miss Grand Thailand was presented with a golden crown worth 1.2 million baht and received other prizes, including a million baht in cash and keys to a condominium. (The Nation)

More than four-legged friends

Pets are often regarded as integral members of the family rather than merely animals. The pandemic led to a surge in pet ownership, resulting in unprecedented growth in the pet economy this year.

New independent companies have emerged offering a variety of products and services, with some adopting a collaborative approach by partnering with veterinarians to co-develop pet food and increase consumer confidence in their products. Continued …

Vote buying: The engine of corruption in Thailand

Vote buying can be a deciding factor in Thai elections at any level – whether for a village head, a local administrator, or a member of Parliament. And the upcoming general election on May 14 is no exception, according to analysts and even politicians themselves.

Many Thai election candidates have blamed their defeat on vote buying, while several election wins have been attributed to parties buying votes. Continued …

Police say 14 people are thought to have died in serial cyanide poisonings

Fourteen people are believed to have been fatally poisoned by a female Thai suspect being held in custody, 36-year-old “Srarat”, but police are currently only investigating 11 of the cases, according to Police Col. Anek Taosuparb, deputy commander of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD).

Arrest warrants have already been issued in three cases, including the case of a female victim named “Siriporn”, a police officer named “Nipa” and “Rotjarin”, a vegetable vendor. Continued …

Thai students recount dangerous escape from Sudan

A group of Thai nationals who arrived home this past weekend after escaping civil war in Sudan described their difficult journey out of the war-torn country that had them constantly on edge through sleepless nights as they passed through numerous checkpoints.

Speaking from Don Mueang Airport where they were welcomed by dignitaries, the president of the Thai Student Assn. in Sudan told reporters the fighting in Sudan was extremely intense, and it was challenging for them to travel without official permission. The student leader, named Yikasem, was among 78 Thai citizens who landed safely at the airport. Their flight was made possible by a 24-hour ceasefire. Continued …

Video: Station master praised for saving elderly woman’s life

Members of the public have heaped praise on the station master of Ban Song railway station in Wiang Sa district for saving the life of a 75-year-old woman with impaired hearing as she was about to be hit by a train on Sunday.

Security camera footage showed that at about 9.50am on Sunday, the woman was walking across a rail track while express train No 85 (Bangkok-Nakhon Si Thammarat) was entering the station. The woman was completely unaware that she was in danger. Continued … 

Si Racha Badly Flooded With Some Cars Floating Away In Floodwaters

Three hours of heavy rain yesterday morning led to many areas of Chonburi’s Si Racha district being damaged, with cars seen floating away in floodwaters.

At around noon, reporters in this district said the torrential rain had also toppled trees, with some falling heavily on cars and damaging them. Continued …

Gunfight erupts during wedding, 13-year-old boy injured in crossfire

Yesterday, a confrontation between two groups of teenagers escalated into a gunfight at a wedding in Buriram Province. The incident left three villagers injured by stray bullets, including a 13-year-old boy in critical condition. Authorities are pursuing charges related to bodily harm and firearms law violations.

Police Lt. Col. Withisarn Aphornphong, superintendent of Prakhon Chai Police Station, led the arrest of a 21-year-old suspect known as “Bee”, along with a .38-caliber revolver, and an 18-year-old suspect known as “A” with a homemade shotgun. Continued …

Raid at a Pattaya hotel uncovers Indian gambling ring, 100 arrested

A combined police task force led by Major Gen. Kampon Leelaprapaporn, the Chonburi provincial police chief, executed a raid this morning on a prestigious 4-star hotel situated in Nong Prue dubdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province.

The operation was initiated after receiving intelligence regarding a substantial illicit gambling ring being operated within a hotel conference room. Continued …

Karen villagers can return to Kaeng Krachan National Park

An independent committee examining a land dispute between Karen villagers and authorities has granted approval for the villagers to return to Bang Kloy Bon if they wish.

The first solution suggested by the committee was to approve the desire of 732 Karen villagers to return to arable lands deep in the forest of Bang Kloy Bon in Kaeng Krachan National Park, their ancestral home. Continued …

Thai Labor 2023 Survey: Increased Employment But Rising Debt

On the occasion of National Labor Day today, Montri Mahaplerkpong, the vice chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), revealed the 28th FTI member survey (FTI poll) on the topic of “Industrial Sector Perspectives on Employment and Workforce Adaptation in the Future” in April 2023.

It was found that a majority of the FTI executives, 48.6%, believed that the current employment rate has returned to pre-COVID-19 levels. Meanwhile, 24.8% expected the employment rate to increase by 10%-20%, while 19.3% anticipated a decrease in the employment rate by 10%-20%. Continued …

Wage hike pledges slammed

As the country marks Labor Day today, activists have expressed concerns over campaign promises made by parties to abruptly raise the minimum daily wages to levels they believe are unrealistic. Continued …

Country’s labor challenges require a lot more than minimum wage pledges

Policies to improve the daily minimum wage for rural workers are hotly debated in the run-up to every election, with this year no exception ahead of the country’s first general election in four years on May 14.

The topic often creates some tension as the industrial sector sounds the alarm on unrealistic demands for wage hikes that hurt the entire consumption chain, while analysts urge the authorities to prioritize skills development. Continued …

Thailand: Southeast Asia’s ‘weed wonderland’

A new symbol has appeared in the kaleidoscopic jumble of neon signs that light up Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok’s most international street. The sudden ubiquity of the five-pointed marijuana leaf, in lurid green, announces the spectacular boom there has been in weed-related businesses in Thailand since cannabis was decriminalized last June.

Walk two kilometers east of the BBC office in Bangkok, and you pass more than 40 dispensaries, selling potent marijuana flower buds and all the paraphernalia needed to smoke them. Continued …

All controls in place for cannabis use in Thailand: govt

Thailand has clear laws governing the use of cannabis, government spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul said on Sunday. She made the remark in response to critics, who question the policy that was promoted by Bhumjaithai Party, which holds the public health portfolio.

She said the policy aims to offer cannabis as an alternative medical treatment and stimulate the economy. Continued …

From watermelon to weed: Thai farmers regret switching to cannabis as prices fall

When Thailand legalized cannabis for medical use in June 2022, thousands rushed to stake their claim, including small-time farmer Tukta Sinnin.

The 43-year-old pumped in nearly 500,000 baht (S$19,500) to grow more than 400 cannabis plants on her land in Nakhon Phanom, a northeast province by the Mekong River. Continued …

Asia Pacific’s tourism industry to surpass pre-pandemic peak in 2025

Travel experiences in Asia Pacific have returned to rapid growth since the region reopened borders for regional and long-haul travel. The industry – especially tour activities and attractions – is expected to surpass the pre-pandemic peak in 2025, according to research conducted by Arival Co.

The company released its new research findings ahead of its conference in Bangkok in June. Titled “The Outlook for Experiences 2019-2025”, the study forecasts that the industry will reach US$67 billion in 2024, and $75 billion in 2025. Continued …

TAT offers half-a-million-baht holiday in travel blogging contest

Ever wish you could holiday for a living – hopping from serene beaches to five-star city hotels? The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) is about to make that wish come true with its latest campaign to promote domestic tourism.

TAT is looking for 20 finalists to compete for the title of “Tourist of Thailand” by presenting their travel content, published on their own social media channels. Continued …

Market report predicts boom in Phuket hotel industry in next decade

Phuket should have 38 new hotels with 14,357 additional rooms on offer by 2032, the newly released Phuket Hotel Market Update 2023 report shows.

Phuket has been getting 260 flights daily and welcoming some 40,000 passengers per day since Thailand lifted all travel restrictions in October last year. This surge in arrivals has pushed the occupancy rate to 80% compared to 48% last year. Continued …

Thailand’s ‘Inspector Beagles’ can be a smuggler’s worst enemy

“Inspector Beagles” have been critical in efforts to deter the smuggling of meat into Thailand, the Livestock Development Department said.

In December of last year, Inspector Beagles foiled 17 attempts to smuggle meat into the county, leading to the seizure of 64.8 kilograms of illegal meat worth 32,995 baht, the department said. Continued …

15 Best Things to Do on Koh Tao

Koh Tao is one of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand and a fantastic spot to get your beginner’s diving license. This tiny paradise is full of incredible things to do and see. Besides snorkeling and scuba diving, you can enjoy incredible viewpoints, sandy white beaches, and great party scenes – not to mention incredibly friendly locals! (Really? Three “incredibles” in one paragraph?)

Whether you plan to stay a few days or a few weeks, you’ll want to know all the best things to do on Koh Tao to make the most of your vacation. Start scrolling to plan your ultimate getaway! Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai food, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s News-April 15

1 Comment
  • Delay to 2024 confirmed for Hua Hin railway and new station construction/
  • Thailand to suffer scorching heat, summer storms this weekend/
  • Aging Thailand will see ‘social-welfare costs rise to 1 trillion baht in 2033’/
  • Sandstorms cover China, South Korea and Thailand in a yellow blanket of dust/
  • Thai villagers drilling well hit mineral water motherload/
  • Six Simultaneous Attacks In Far South/
  • Songkran ’23: How (and why) Thais anoint seniors at Songkran/Chiang Mai swings back to life after three-year break from Songkran celebrations/Over 100 lives lost, 1,000 injured in road accidents/Pathum Thani Songkran festival: Nearly 20 knives and weapons seized by officials/Police Arrest Hot-Headed Vocational Groups Fighting on Khao San Road/Sisaket Police Seize Over 200 Cars, Arrest 346 Drunk Drivers During Songkran/
  • Tourism: Tourists up nearly 12% at Thai airports in Q1/Phuket’s Carnival Magic earns spot in TIME’s Greatest Places of 2023/What is the Dark Side of Thailand as a Tourist?/
  • Thailand Experience: Khao chae: A tasty, refreshing reminder of Thailand’s rich past/The Ultimate Guide To Thai Chili Peppers/The Best Hotels in Thailand, From Wellness Resorts to City Gems/
  • International: China vows not to sell arms to any party in Ukraine war
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Delay to 2024 confirmed for Hua Hin railway and new station construction

The double track rail line between Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan is set to be open by next year, a spokesperson for the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has said.

In an update on the project provided to the Thai government’s public relations department, Ekarat Sri-arayanpong, SRT’s public relations director, said that the majority of the civil engineering work for the project has already been finished. Continued …

Thailand to suffer scorching heat, summer storms this weekend

Most of upper Thailand will be hit with summer storms this weekend, while the rest of the country will experience hot to very hot temperatures, the Thai Meteorological Department warned.

In an announcement this morning, the department said a moderate high-pressure system moving from upper Vietnam to the northeast and the South China Sea will bring storms, gusty winds, hail and thunder to several provinces on Saturday and Sunday. Continued … 

Aging Thailand will see ‘social-welfare costs rise to 1 trillion baht in 2033’

The Fiscal Policy Office projects that social-welfare expenditures will reach 1 trillion baht in 2033, due mainly to the rising cost of caring for the elderly as Thailand’s population continues to age.

The rising number of elderly people requires an increase in government spending to care for them, while the tax revenue from the working-age population faces downward pressure. Continued …

Chiang Mai smog

Sandstorms cover China, South Korea and Thailand in a yellow blanket of dust

Sandstorms whipped up from the Gobi desert have spread from northern China to Thailand and South Korea and as far east as Japan, causing a reduction in visibility and an increase in respiratory illness. There have been four sandstorms in the space of a month in China this year. Photos …

Thai villagers drilling well hit mineral water motherload

Villagers drilling an artesian well to irrigate their fields in Sukhothai province were delighted to discover top-quality mineral water spouting from the ground.

Residents of Moo 7 in Na Choeng Khiri, Khiri Mas district, believe their discovery may match the quality of mineral water found in Kanchanaburi’s Huay Krajao district two years ago. Continued …

Six Simultaneous Attacks In Far South

An unknown group of insurgents mounted six attacks simultaneously in the three far south provinces last night but there were no injuries nor serious damage.

The attacks were launched just as Thailand marked Songkran festival and during the last 10 days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Continued …

How (and why) Thais anoint seniors at Songkran

Songkran provides an annual opportunity for Thais to show respect and gratitude to their parents, often through a ceremony called “Rod Nam Dam Hua”.

This water-pouring ceremony originated in the North where the Lanna phrases “Rod Nam” and “Dam Hua” refer to bathing and washing one’s hair, respectively. Continued …

Chiang Mai swings back to life after three-year break from Songkran celebrations

As many as 90,000 travelers are set to visit Chiang Mai this week to join the Songkran festival celebration, with hotel bookings expected to reach 65%, the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Chiang Mai office, Suladda Sarutilavan, said.

She said that travelers are coming in big numbers to join the Songkran celebrations in the province, from Thursday to Sunday. Continued … 

Over 100 lives lost, 1,000 injured in road accidents

According to the director general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Boontham Lertsukheekasem, 114 fatalities and 1,064 injuries were recorded due to road accidents nationwide during the Songkran holiday. Between Tuesday and Thursday, there were 1,055 traffic incidents leading to these casualties a report today revealed.

Chiang Mai, a province in the north, experienced the most accidents with 38 reported incidents. Bangkok saw the highest fatality rate with nine deaths. Chiang Mai, along with the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat, had the highest count of injured individuals, with 40 each, according to Boontham. Continued …

Pathum Thani Songkran festival: Nearly 20 knives and weapons seized by officials

Pathum Thani’s Klong Luang district held a two-day Songkran festival, but it wasn’t all fun and games. In an effort to promote safety and prevent violence, officials set up checkpoints around Khlong Sam Road to check for weapons and drunk drivers.

The joint effort included representatives from Khlong Luang District Administration, Klong Luang District Police, Klong Sam Municipality, and Khlong Luang District Public Health Excise officials. Continued … 

Police Arrest Hot-Headed Vocational Groups Fighting on Khao San Road

Two hot-headed vocational groups were arrested by the police on Khao San Road during the Songkran Festival in Bangkok.

One young man was caught carrying knuckles, while two pocket knives were seized from the groups. The incident happened on April 14 at around 8:55 pm in front of Soi Khao San Road. Continued …

Sisaket Police Seize Over 200 Cars, Arrest 346 Drunk Drivers During Songkran

According to statistics released by the Sisaket Provincial Police, during the Songkran Festival a total of 1,470 people were arrested, 346 of whom were arrested for drunk driving.

The police seized 213 cars, 192 motorcycles, and 21 other vehicles in the course of 10 major arrests. These numbers underscore the importance of road safety measures and the need for continued vigilance in order to prevent accidents and keep the public safe. – Naew Na

Tourists up nearly 12% at Thai airports in Q1

Air passenger numbers rose 11.68% in the first quarter this year from the same period last year, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).

The first three months of 2023 saw a total of 30.63 million trips, up 3.57 million from last year. Continued …

Phuket’s Carnival Magic earns spot in TIME’s Greatest Places of 2023

The Carnival Magic in Phuket has been making waves around the globe, earning its spot as one of the “World’s Greatest Places 2023”, according to TIME Magazine, as well as being named the “Best Theme Park in Thailand” by LUXlife magazine. With nine Guinness World Record titles to its name, Carnival Magic is a one-of-a-kind destination that should be at the top of your travel bucket list.

Once inside, you’ll find an impressive range of attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. But the real magic happens during the park’s parade show in the paradium and the Kingdom of Lights illumination park, two experiences that are unlike anything you’ve seen before. Continued …

What is the Dark Side of Thailand as a Tourist?

Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and friendly locals, has been a popular tourist destination for decades. However, there is a darker side to Thailand that many tourists may not be aware of.

From scams to sex tourism to animal cruelty, this article will explore the dark side of Thailand that tourists should be aware of before visiting. Continued …

Khao chae: A tasty, refreshing reminder of Thailand’s rich past

Khao chae or rice soaked in cool, fragrant water is a dish that dates back several centuries but is still popular in hot summer months.

Legend has it that the recipe first arrived in the royal court during the reign of King Rama IV (1851-1868). It was reportedly introduced to the palace kitchen by the king’s wife Mom Chao Manda Songklin. Continued …

The Ultimate Guide To Thai Chili Peppers

Chili peppers’ epic journey has transformed global cuisine. Hailing from South America, they quickly spread to the Caribbean, Venezuela, and the Andes, igniting a worldwide love affair. Chilies arrived in Thailand with Portuguese traders around the 15th century.

While the Portuguese may have failed in their Christian mission, they succeeded in changing the course of Thai cuisine forever. Today, Thai cuisine is widely adored, thanks in no small part to the chili pepper’s transformative power. Continued …

The Best Hotels in Thailand, From Wellness Resorts to City Gems

Home to some of the best hotels in Asia, Thailand punches well above its weight when it comes to places to stay. In Bangkok, glossy city hotels rival those found in New York and London, but the country’s landmark addresses are saved for the beaches and island — Chiva Som is regularly voted as the best destination spa in the world, while Aman, Banyan Tree, and Six Senses are dotted throughout the best islands in Thailand.

There are plenty of boutique and under-the-radar boltholes to be found, too, where friendly service and traditional cooking leave you feeling like you’ve gained a glimpse of life as a local. For a shortlist of our favorites, here we round up the best hotels in Thailand. Continued …

China vows not to sell arms to any party in Ukraine war

China won’t sell weapons to either side in the war in Ukraine, the country’s foreign minister said Friday, responding to Western concerns that Beijing could provide military assistance to Russia. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s News-April 8

 

  • Hua Hin implements solutions for water shortages/
  • Mercury hits dangerous levels in Bangkok, Krabi on Sunday/
  • Alliance sought to combat haze/
  • 59 Chinese Christian asylum seekers exiled in Thailand leave for US/
  • Cyber data thief allegedly an army sergeant/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Experts outline the economic challenges facing the next government/Thailand’s workforce faces two major challenges, says ManpowerGroup/Renewables scheme targets new firms/Demco keen on expansion in renewable energy sector/UAC allots Bt300 million for renewable drive/
  • Tourism: Songkran celebrations set to move into high gear across Thailand/Songkran festivals around Thailand/Songkran revelers get an extra day to party this year/18 river sources unfit for Songkran/A tourist’s primer: The cleanest and dirtiest rivers, and the best beaches/Police preparing for Songkran traffic and crime/Thailand drafts bill to decriminalize its billion-dollar sex trade/Ukrainian Woman Arrested After Spray Painting Famous Viewpoint in Phuket/Indian national arrested for overstaying his visa by 1,200 days/
  • Thailand Experience: Koh Samui: The secret island gem of Southeast Asia’s hospitality scene/Uncover Thailand’s finest adventure hotels/Step Back In Time & Visit The Oldest Restaurants In Bangkok/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin waterworks

Hua Hin implements solutions for water shortages

Hua Hin officials have proposed a three-stage plan to address local water shortages in Hua Hin w.

As a start, water from the Kasetsart University Animal Hospital will be pumped from university ponds to the Hua Na Waterworks pumping plant.

The second measure is for a pipeline to be installed from Suan Son Pradiphat, to the Hua Na water pumping plant. The pipeline is expected to be completed in 90 days, following which the municipality will install a booster pump to increase the water pressure.

Finally, improvements to the Hua Hin pumping station and a pipeline, with a budget of Bt1,054 million, has entered the final phase; 10 kilometers remain and are expected to be completed before the end of this fiscal year.

Mercury hits dangerous levels in Bangkok, Krabi on Sunday

The Thai Meteorological Department has forecast that Krabi will be the hottest place in the nation on Sunday, with its heat index hitting 54.2ᵒ Celsius.

The second hottest place in Thailand will be Bangkok’s Bang Na district, where temperatures are expected to soar to 50.2ᵒC. The other three hottest areas in the country are Phetchabun (44.3ᵒC), Chonburi (43.2ᵒC), and Nakhon Ratchasima’s Chok Chai district (41.3ᵒC). Continued …

Alliance sought to combat haze

Thailand, Myanmar and Laos are seeking to join forces to combat the transboundary haze pollution choking the region.

At Government House, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha hosted a trilateral meeting through video conference with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and Myanmar leader Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing to discuss the transboundary haze crisis. Continued …

59 Chinese Christian asylum seekers exiled in Thailand leave for US

Dozens of Chinese Christian asylum seekers who fled alleged religious persecution in their homeland left Thailand for the United States after being released from Thai custody for an immigration violation, police and United Nations officials said Friday.

A group of 63 members of the Shenzhen Holy Reformed Church (also known as the Mayflower Church) had feared Thailand might deport them to China, but American officials and a lawmaker reportedly intervened and persuaded Thai authorities to send them to the U.S. Continued …

Cyber data thief allegedly an army sergeant

The cyberpunk who hacked into a government database and threatened to release the personal data of 55 million Thai people is believed to be an army sergeant.

Police held the unnamed army sergeant and his wife this morning in relation to hacking the personal data of 55 million Thais and putting the information up for sale on April 5 under the name “9Near.” Continued …

Experts outline the economic challenges facing the next government

In less than two months, Thai people will exercise their right to vote and choose the leader and party that should govern the country for the next four years. All political parties have been running intense campaigns, trying to persuade people to vote for them.

Economic policies are regarded as one of the first factors that people evaluate while voting because of their direct co-relation to their standard of living. Amid external uncertainties and volatility, as well as an uneven recovery of Thailand’s economy, where tourism is expanding but exports are contracting, the newly elected government will face difficulties and challenges in maintaining the country’s growth momentum while also making people happy. Continued …

Thailand’s workforce faces two major challenges, says ManpowerGroup

ManpowerGroup says Thailand’s labor market faces two big challenges in the next five years – shortages of IT skills and English language proficiency.

To remain competitive in the global economy, the country must adapt to fast-changing technology and invest in upskilling workers, the global staffing firm added. Continued …

Renewables scheme targets new firms

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is encouraging companies not selected for power projects under its 5.2-gigawatt renewables scheme to participate in the second phase after the general election. Continued …

Demco keen on expansion in renewable energy sector

Demco, a contractor and engineering service provider, is expanding its clean energy business following diversification into this sector by joining the government’s promoted renewable power development scheme.

The company proposed power generation projects in an auction for the 5.2-gigawatt renewable power scheme, overseen by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), said Pongsak Sirikupt, chief executive and managing director of Demco. Continued …

UAC allots Bt300 million for renewable drive

UAC Global Plc., a chemical trader and clean power operator, plans to allocate 300 million baht to support diversification into renewable energy and oil production development.

Roughly 20 million baht is for the development of a 3-megawatt biogas power plant in Khon Kaen, said Chatchapol Prasopchok, president and chief executive of UAC Global. Continued …

Songkran celebrations set to move into high gear across Thailand

Full-scale Songkran celebrations can be expected this year across the Kingdom after three years of cancellations or restricted activities during the Covid-19 crisis.

Many events have been scheduled to mark the Thai New Year in Bangkok and other major cities, including Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, and Phuket. The planned activities range from cultural shows and religious rites to musical events and international festivals. Continued …

Songkran festivals around Thailand

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

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

Songkran revelers get an extra day to party this year

The Digital Economy and Society Ministry confirmed that Monday, April 17, is an extra day added to the Songkran holidays that kick off next Thursday.

The ministry said on Friday that its Anti-Fake News Center has been receiving many inquiries about the additional holidays. It said April 17 has been announced as compensation for April 15, which is a Saturday. This extra day is based on a Jan. 10 Cabinet resolution. Continued …

18 river sources unfit for Songkran

The Department of Pollution Control (PCD) has warned people not to use water from 18 sources during the Songkran holidays because of unsafe bacterial contamination. The unsafe water sources include river sections that pass through Bangkok and Nonthaburi’s Bang Kruai district.

Pornsak Phuim, deputy director general at the PCD, said surface water samples from 61 locations across the country had been collected ahead of the Songkran Festival (April 13-15), when vast quantities of water are used for splashing. Continued …

A tourist’s primer: The cleanest and dirtiest rivers, and the best beaches

The Pollution Control Department has certified as good the water quality of at least half of the 70 rivers it examined, amid an expected influx of visitors to beaches countrywide during summer.

The deputy director-general of the department, Pornsak Phuimm, said that officials had examined the water quality of 70 rivers around the country from January to March. Three of the 70 rivers have excellent quality of water, 35 are good quality, 21 are moderate level, while the water in nine rivers is of poor quality, he said. Continued …

Police preparing for Songkran traffic and crime

Police will implement measures nationwide to reduce traffic congestion, ensure safety on the roads, and prevent crime during the Songkran festival, national police chief Damrongsak Kittiprapas said on Friday.

Police will enforce the enhanced measures during the April 13 to 15 holiday, he said. Trucks will be banned from main roads used for travel during the festival and extra lanes will be added to accommodate the surge in traffic, he said. Continued …

Thailand drafts bill to decriminalize its billion-dollar sex trade

From the rows of massage parlors, pulsing night clubs and rowdy bars of Thailand’s gaudy red-light districts, the country’s billion-dollar sex trade operates all but in the open.

Technically, the sex they sell is illegal, but a new government-led plan aims to change that. It calls for repealing the 1996 Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act, which makes most sex work a crime, and replacing it with a new law, the Protection of Sex Work Act, affirming the rights of sex workers and their places of business to sell sex. Continued …

Ukrainian Woman Arrested After Spray Painting Famous Viewpoint in Phuket

A Ukrainian woman was arrested after she spray painted anti-Russia statements on rocks and benches at a famous viewpoint in Wichit.

Local residents in Wichit complained that many places at the popular Khao Khad Viewpoint were sprayed with red spray paint, professing anti-Russian views. Continued …

Indian national arrested for overstaying his visa by 1,200 days

Thai immigration, together with the police in the district of Kaset Sombun, Chaiyaphum, have arrested a foreigner for overstaying his visa.

According to reports, the operation was carried out as part of the government’s policy to crack down on various crimes in the area, including those committed by foreigners overstaying their visas or with warrants from Thai or foreign courts. Continued …

Koh Samui: The secret island gem of Southeast Asia’s hospitality scene

Koh Samui remains a “little-big” anomaly in Southeast Asia’s massive resort island arsenal. Despite hosting famed global hotel brands such as Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, W, InterContinental, and Banyan Tree, its smallish private airport capacity has somehow created a natural barrier to mass tourism in the development-crazed last 25 years.

Looking at the tourism recovery trajectory in our newly released Samui Hotel Market Update 2023, the best word I could use for growth was the impish term “moderate.” No, the island has not broken into a full sweat, but looking at the mounting hotel room night demand in Q4 of last year and into the first quarter of 2023, there are positive signs of momentum. Continued …

Float House on River Kwai

Uncover Thailand’s finest adventure hotels

Are you an adventure seeker looking to explore the natural wonders of Thailand? If so, then you’re in luck! Thailand is a country filled with breathtaking landscapes, from towering mountains and dense forests to tranquil beaches and crystal-clear waters. And with its growing popularity as an adventure tourism destination, Thailand offers an abundance of outdoor activities for travelers of all ages and abilities.

To make the most of your adventure tourism experience in Thailand, it’s essential to find the right hotel that caters to your needs. Whether you’re seeking a hotel that provides easy access to hiking trails, water sports, or wildlife safaris, there are plenty of options to choose from. And with so many hotels in Thailand that offer adventure activities and services, finding the right one can be a daunting task. Continued …

Step Back In Time & Visit The Oldest Restaurants In Bangkok

When it comes to countries with the tastiest culinary delights, Thailand always tops the list, and Bangkok’s dining scene is one of the most vibrant in the Asian nation.

While Thailand’s Capital’s Street food is considered legendary (it’s been featured in CNN as the city with the best street food in the world), it’s also home to numerous delicious restaurants, some of which have existed for more than a century. The restaurants offer a unique taste of some of Thai’s traditional dishes, making them well worth visiting. Step back in time and visit the oldest restaurants in Bangkok. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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

Tuesday’s News-April 4

  • New opening schedule for Tamarind Market in April/
  • Junior golf clinic planned at Royal Hua Hin course/
  • Cost of diesel to be cut this week amid falling global oil prices/
  • Fires in Nakhon Nayok under control, focus shifts to park in Chiang Mai/
  • Sri Lanna park to be made ‘disaster zone’/
  • Chiang Mai ranks as most polluted city in the world for 9 days running/
  • Restaurants, real estate drive 18% rise in business registrations/
  • Man Dies After Bomb Explodes in Krabi/
  • Suspects in Nonthaburi slaying of female student arrested in China/
  • 37 People Injured After Bus to Phuket Overturns in Chumphon/
  • Annual motor show bookings surge 35%/
  • Exports seen contracting 10% in first quarter/
  • Tourism: Songkran celebrations in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan/Pet-friendly Songkran trip ideas for the whole furry family/Thailand expects tourism revenue to hit 80% of pre-Covid level this year/Samui Negotiates More Direct Flights as Bookings for Songkran Soar/TAT keeping track of impact of Chinese tourists/Chiang Rai skywalk closed for repairs after glass panel shatters/
  • Thailand Experience: Students from UK high school embark on trip of a lifetime to Thailand/
  • International: Finland joins NATO as Russian war prompts shift/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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New opening schedule for Tamarind Market in April

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

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

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

Junior golf clinic planned at Royal Hua Hin course

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanna park to be made ‘disaster zone’

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

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

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

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

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

Restaurants, real estate drive 18% rise in business registrations

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

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

Man Dies After Bomb Explodes in Krabi

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

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

Suspects in Nonthaburi slaying of female student arrested in China

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

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

37 People Injured After Bus to Phuket Overturns in Chumphon

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

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

Annual motor show bookings surge 35%

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

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

Exports seen contracting 10% in first quarter

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

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

Songkran celebrations in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan

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

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

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

Pet-friendly V Villas in Hua Hin

Pet-friendly Songkran trip ideas for the whole furry family

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

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

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

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

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

Samui Negotiates More Direct Flights as Bookings for Songkran Soar

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

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

TAT keeping track of impact of Chinese tourists

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

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

Chiang Rai skywalk closed for repairs after glass panel shatters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Finland joins NATO as Russian war prompts shift

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

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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

Wednesday’s News-March 29

  • Water supply disruptions in parts of Cha Am Thursday/
  • Is Thailand really immune to the banking turmoil in the US and Europe?/
  • New electricity rates won’t be lowered/
  • PM2.5 pollution worsens in north, hospitals said prepared/
  • Chiang Mai city, airport shrouded in pollution from forest burning/
  • Neighboring countries eyed to help curb haze/
  • Thailand sees 8,000-plus new businesses vs 869 closures in February/
  • Thai children ‘most likely’ to suffer climate impact/
  • Thai to be taught at Harvard/
  • ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 will likely take place on Koh Samui/
  • Tourism: Songkran festivals around Thailand/Airlines juggle demand as fares skyrocket/How Koh Larn became ‘Trash Island’ and what is being done to fix it/Humans frolic with sharks as eco-tourism flourishes in Maya Bay/Bangkok canal lights up with vendors, live music, art, and open-air cinema/Iraqi Man Faints Upon Being Caught Overstaying More Than 8 Years/
  • Thailand Experience: Top 5 hotels in Hua Hin/10 best luxury hotels and resorts on Koh Samui/How to See Over 100 Temples in One Day/Mountain Lanes Around Chiang Mai Are Perfect For A Motorbike Road Trip/‘Thai cuisine is not just street food’/How Bangkok’s Le Du became The Best Restaurant in Asia 2023/5 top-rated medical cannabis clinics in Bangkok/
  • International: Alibaba Group to split into six units, explore IPOs/China allows five female pilots to fly heavy-duty fighter jets/Sugar traps put damper on cockroaches’ sex life/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Water supply disruptions in parts of Cha Am Thursday

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

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

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

New electricity rates won’t be lowered

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

PM2.5 pollution worsens in north, hospitals said prepared

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

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

Chiang Mai city, airport shrouded in pollution from forest burning

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

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

Neighboring countries eyed to help curb haze

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

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

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

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

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

Thai children ‘most likely’ to suffer climate impact

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

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

Thai to be taught at Harvard

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

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

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

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

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

Songkran festivals around Thailand

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

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

Airlines juggle demand as fares skyrocket

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Iraqi Man Faints Upon Being Caught Overstaying More Than 8 Years

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

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

Top 5 hotels in Hua Hin

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

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

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

10 best luxury hotels and resorts on Koh Samui

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

The Ritz Carlton- Koh Samui

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

How to See Over 100 Temples in One Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

‘Thai cuisine is not just street food’

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 top-rated medical cannabis clinics in Bangkok

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

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

BNH Hospital

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

Alibaba Group to split into six units, explore IPOs

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

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

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

Sugar traps put damper on cockroaches’ sex life

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

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

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Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai food, thailand, tourism

Monday’s News-March 20

  • Food Carnival at Market Village March 25-April 16/
  • Thailand’s surging PM2.5 dust pollution shows little sign of abating/
  • Miss Thailand 2023 is Chonnikarn Supittayaporn of Chiang Mai/
  • Thailand’s ‘phanaeng’ tops list of best curries in the world/
  • Thailand’s e-commerce sector enters the next phase/
  • Immigration announces latest arrests of foreign criminals in Thailand/
  • Thailand to dissolve Parliament today ahead of election/
  • Rain and hail storms hit Chiang Mai, causing widespread property damage/
  • ‘Golden year’ for Phuket property as condos and luxury villas sell out/
  • Teen pregnancy in Thailand decreasing, but the issue remains complicated/
  • Low reserves of Rh negative blood raise concerns for foreigners in Thailand/
  • Radioactive Cesium-137 found in smelting works – factories sealed off/
  • 2 die, 5 hospitalized after eating poisonous horseshoe crab in Trat/
  • Tourism: Chinese arrivals predicted to top 300,000 in April/Red cards issued in Phuket, foreigners deported/Swiss man on the run after underage sex ring shut down in police raid/7 people rescued after their vessel capsizes in Andaman Sea/Thai Tour Guides Unite to Address Issue of Illegal Foreign Guides/Foreign Tourist Drowns in Strong Waves at Pattaya beach/Treehouses, tents and rafts can now be used for hotels/
  • Thailand Experience: The perfect fusion of what Thailand has to offer/
  • International: Swiss banking giant UBS to buy troubled rival Credit Suisse/Global warming driving more extreme droughts and floods/China’s Xi heads to Russia in visit for ‘peace’/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Food Carnival at Market Village March 25-April 16

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

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

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

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

Miss Thailand 2023 is Chonnikarn Supittayaporn of Chiang Mai

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

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

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

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

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

Thailand’s e-commerce sector enters the next phase

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

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

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

Immigration announces latest arrests of foreign criminals in Thailand

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

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

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

Thailand to dissolve Parliament today ahead of election

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Teen pregnancy in Thailand decreasing, but the issue remains complicated

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chinese arrivals predicted to top 300,000 in April

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

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

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

Red cards issued in Phuket, foreigners deported

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7 people rescued after their vessel capsizes in Andaman Sea

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

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

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

Thai Tour Guides Unite to Address Issue of Illegal Foreign Guides

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

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

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

Foreign Tourist Drowns in Strong Waves at Pattaya beach

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

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

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

Treehouses, tents and rafts can now be used for hotels

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

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

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

The perfect fusion of what Thailand has to offer

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

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

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

Swiss banking giant UBS to buy troubled rival Credit Suisse

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

Global warming driving more extreme droughts and floods

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

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

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

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting