Category Archives: immigration

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Tuesday’s news-May 30

“Forgive your enemies; it messes up their heads.”

  • Passenger bus stop pavilion opens outside Hua Hin Airport/
  • How air treatment solutions can help tackle Thailand’s PM2.5 pollution problem/
  • Why reducing plastic usage, not recycling, is the solution to saving the environment/
  • TikTok sweeps wave of change over Thailand’s election campaigns/
  • Students Stab Each Other at c Province School, one dead/
  • Fat and lucky – Shifu proves cats have 9 lives after surviving a 6-story fall/
  • 79 police fired in first five months over disciplinary offenses/
  • Economy: Thai economy resilient, on path to full recovery/Thai baht under more pressure as political uncertainty persists/Bt450 minimum wage seen as an earthquake moment for Thai factories/Asian Sea, AAI consider relocation if wages rise/Planning unit touts revamp of labor force/EVs expected to supercharge 3.5% growth in Thailand auto manufacturing/Asia’s largest F&B expo smashes expectations with THB120 billion in trade/Eco-efficiency the key to environmentally friendly farming/Thailand Coffee Fest 2023 creates a buzz/Weed network fears law change/
  • Tourism: TAT expects 30-35 million foreign tourists in 2024/Foreign visitors to Surat Thani surpass 1.5M this year/
  • Thailand Experience: Why Phetchaburi is a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts/Chaiyaphum: the ‘Land of the Phaya Naga’/
  • International: Unlocking Bali’s plastic tourist trap/China plans to land astronauts on moon before 2030/Singapore’s private home prices soar to US$1.2 million/Frankfurt police mistakenly arrest stripper with toy gun at stag party/
  • 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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Passenger bus stop pavilion opens outside Hua Hin Airport

A new passenger bus stop pavilion has been officially opened outside Hua Hin Airport, aiming to provide added convenience and improved travel options between the airport and Hua Hin town center.

The opening ceremony took place yesterday with several prominent figures in attendance. Continued …

How air treatment solutions can help tackle Thailand’s PM2.5 pollution problem

The issue of PM2.5 dust pollution has spurred various political parties in Thailand to propose policies aimed at controlling dust intensity and mitigating its impact on public health.

The current air quality standard in the country sets the maximum allowable level of PM2.5 (particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter) at 50 micrograms per cubic meter, averaged over a 24-hour period. However, it is evident that PM2.5 concentrations often exceed these standards during certain periods, leading to adverse implications for public health and the economy. Continued …

Why reducing plastic usage, not recycling, is the solution to saving the environment

The world may need to reconsider the mantra of recycling to prevent environmental degradation after recent research revealed that the recycling process itself may lead to the release of a significant amount of microplastics into the environment.

Waste management is one of the major challenges faced in the current era, with a large amount of waste generated from consumption and consumerism every day. Each country has different methods of waste disposal; some bury it while others incinerate it, and each method has its environmental impacts. This led to the emergence of the concept of recycling, which appeared to be an effective solution to reduce waste and reuse materials efficiently. Continued …

TikTok sweeps wave of change over Thailand’s election campaigns

In a notable shift from traditional campaigning strategies, political figures in Thailand have turned to TikTok, using the fast, efficient and cost-effective platform to connect with a wider audience.

With a large percentage of Thai nationals active on social media, TikTok has emerged as a powerful tool for politicians to sway public opinion and secure votes. Continued …

Students Stab Each Other at Sisaket Province School, one dead

A renowned school in Sisaket Province was gripped by a shocking incident yesterday, as two young students in Grade 1 and Grade 2 engaged in a fatal altercation using a knife. The incident, which unfolded during school hours, resulted in one student’s tragic death and two in coma.

According to witnesses and initial reports, the incident began when the two boys had been engaging in what seemed to be a playful boxing game during their lunch break. However, the game soon turned violent, fueling anger in one of the boys. As the lunch break drew to a close and class resumed, tensions remained high between the two students. Continued …

Fat and lucky – Shifu proves cats have 9 lives after surviving a 6-story fall

A fat tomcat proved that cats indeed have nine lives when he survived a six-story fall by landing on a car below and shattering its back windscreen.

The car’s owner, who goes by the handle Apiwat Toyothaka on Facebook, posted a message on Saturday saying the condo’s management informed him that a cat had fallen on his car and smashed the back windscreen. Continued …

79 police fired in first five months over disciplinary offenses

A total of 79 police officers have been removed from service during the first five months of this year for committing severe disciplinary offenses, the Police Commission was updated on Monday.

The commission, the highest governing body of police officers, held a meeting at the Royal Thai Police headquarters in Bangkok to endorse the decisions of the disciplinary committee against police officers found to have committed severe disciplinary offenses. Continued …

Thai economy resilient, on path to full recovery

Thailand’s economy is on a solid path to recovery and showing resiliency, helped by good revenue collection and a normalization of its tourism sector, while inflation should come in below 3% this year, its finance minister said on Monday.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy expanded faster than expected in the first quarter of this year due to a revival in its vital tourism sector. Continued …

Thai baht under more pressure as political uncertainty persists

A new low for the Thai baht looms and not even a rate hike by the central bank is likely to halt its slide. The Asian currency weakened for its third straight week against the U.S. dollar, closing at 34.77 on Friday and heading toward February’s year-to-date low of 35.39.

Hurdles to the Move Forward coalition are growing, increasing political uncertainty over who will form the next government in a development weighing on the baht, as it spurs foreign funds to sell both the nation’s equities and bonds. Continued …

Bt450 minimum wage seen as an earthquake moment for Thai factories

Thailand’s business leaders are increasingly concerned at the Move Forward Party’s determination to implement its Bt450-a-day minimum wage policy within 100 days of coming to power, if the eight-party coalition manages to elect Pita Limjaroenrat as prime minister in August.

They warn that the move will cost Thailand jobs in terms of lost inward investment, the closure of factories where profitability is already marginal and a move toward automation, which will impact elderly and lower-skilled workers the most. One business leader describes the move as a potential earthquake for the critical manufacturing sector of the economy. Continued …

Asian Sea, AAI consider relocation if wages rise

Asian Sea Corp., a Thai frozen food producer, and its subsidiary Asian Alliance International (AAI) are ready to move their production base to Vietnam or the Philippines if the new coalition government raises the daily minimum wage to 450 baht.

President and Chief Executive Somsak Amornrattanachaikul said the group is preparing to relocate its production and investment bases to Vietnam or the Philippines to expand production capacity if the daily minimum wage is increased to 450 baht. Continued …

Planning unit touts revamp of labor force

Thailand needs to ramp up in-depth research and data analysis at provincial and regional levels to identify target markets for exports or investment in order to formulate appropriate promotion policies, according to the latest study by the Trade Planning and Strategy Office (TPSO).

The planning unit advised Thailand to accelerate building a skilled workforce ready for targeted and high-tech industries such as chip design and chip manufacturing. This is essential in order to facilitate the entry of foreign workers into Thailand who possess quality and expertise, said Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the TPSO. Continued …

EVs expected to supercharge 3.5% growth in Thailand auto manufacturing

The Thailand Automotive Institute (TAI) expects the domestic electric vehicle (EV) industry to drive 3.5% growth in auto production this year to 1.95 million units.

About 900,000 units will be sold domestically and 1.05 million will be exported. TAI’s projection comes after 625,423 vehicles rolled off Thai production lines from January-April, up 5% from the same period last year. Continued …

Asia’s largest F&B expo smashes expectations with THB120 billion in trade

Thaifex-Anuga Asia 2023, Asia’s largest food and beverage trade show, surged past its 70-billion-baht target to record a whopping 120 billion baht in deals, according to the Commerce Ministry.

A total of 3,034 exhibitors – 1,109 Thai and 1,925 international – presented their products and services at 5,859 booths at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani in Nonthaburi from May 23-27. The five-day fair welcomed 131,039 visitors from 140 countries, a 58% jump from last year. Continued …

Eco-efficiency the key to environmentally friendly farming

Eco-efficiency in agriculture is a key to reducing environmental impact while meeting the increasing demand for food, Katharina Staske, managing director of the German Agricultural Society (DLG) Asia Pacific, said. She made the remarks during the opening ceremony of ”AgriConnect Conference & Exhibition” at True Digital Park in Bangkok.

She said climate change causes an impact on many regions around the world, especially in Southeast Asia. She added that unsustainable use of resources caused climate change impact to be more severe. Continued …

Thailand Coffee Fest 2023 creates a buzz

Under the theme “Good Coffee For Everyone”, the much-awaited Thailand Coffee Fest 2023 will be held from July 13-16 at Impact Exhibition Hall 5–8 in Muang Thong Thani.

Featuring more than 300 cafes and roasters, as well as a wide range of related products and innovative services, the four-day event, a partnership between the Specialty Coffee Assn. of Thailand and The Cloud, will take over a 20,000m² space across the exhibition’s four halls. It expects to welcome more than 30,000 visitors daily. Continued …

Weed network fears law change

Citing research by the Ad-Hoc Committee on Systematic Hemp and Cannabis Resolution, Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network has urged three alliance parties not to reinstate the plant as a narcotic drug, as that would be like “getting the first shirt button wrong” and lead to more problems.

Prasitchai Nunual, the network leader, wrote on Monday that before the election this particular ad-hoc committee was set up to discuss removing cannabis from the list in an attempt to study the systemic usage of the plant. Continued …

TAT expects 30-35 million foreign tourists in 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates 30-35 million foreign tourists will visit the kingdom in 2024, generating 3 trillion baht in total revenue, marking a 100% return to pre-Covid levels. TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said the recovery is expected to be driven by increased spending per trip.

In line with the government’s policy to stimulate economic recovery through tourism, TAT has launched the “Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters” campaign to drive the recovery of Thai tourism. Continued …

Foreign visitors to Surat Thani surpass 1.5M this year

International arrivals to Surat Thani Province have exceeded 1.5 million, up 155% so far this year, according to the provincial governor.

Gov. Witchawut Jinto said yesterday 2.05 million visitors have arrived in the province since January. Of them, 1.5 million are foreign visitors, representing a 155% increase from the same period last year. Continued …

Kuaitiao Nam Daeng (red-soup noodles)

Why Phetchaburi is a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts

Renowned for its rich culinary heritage and vibrant gastronomic scene, Phetchaburi stands as a must-visit destination for foodies seeking an unforgettable journey into Thai cuisine.

The city is dedicated to preserving traditional recipes held by local communities and is known for its high-quality ingredients that have been refined by local artisan producers for generations and form the core of Phetchaburi’s gastronomic excellence. Local cuisine has been adapted for more widespread national and global engagement, combining tradition with modern economic development. Continued … 

Chaiyaphum: the ‘Land of the Phaya Naga’

Chaiyaphum is a province located in the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isan. It is situated approximately 340 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. Chaiyaphum Province covers an area of about 12,778 square kilometers and is divided into 16 districts (amphoes) and one subdistrict (king amphoe).

The province is characterized by its picturesque landscapes, which include mountains, forests, and fertile plains. It is surrounded by several mountain ranges, such as the Phetchabun Mountains to the east and the Sankamphaeng Range to the west. Chaiyaphum is often referred to as the “Land of the Phaya Naga” due to the mythical serpents that are believed to reside in the nearby Mun River. Continued …

Unlocking Bali’s plastic tourist trap

At 6:15 am, the first rays of the magical Bali light are breaking over the horizon. At the shoreline, hotel staff are finishing their daily routine of raking piles of plastic bags, cups, wrappers, and other trash that washed up overnight. Continued …

China plans to land astronauts on moon before 2030

China’s burgeoning space program plans to place astronauts on the moon before 2030 and expand the country’s orbiting space station, officials said Monday. Continued …

Singapore’s private home prices soar to US$1.2 million

The median price of a private home in Singapore reached US$1.2 million in 2022, making it the highest among Asia Pacific cities, according to a report by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Asia Pacific Center for Housing. Singapore is also ranked as the most expensive city in the region for renting a private home. Continued …

Frankfurt police mistakenly arrest stripper with toy gun at stag party

In Frankfurt am Main, Germany, a stripper was mistakenly apprehended by local authorities after receiving reports of a man armed with a gun, which was later discovered to be a toy. The event took place on a Friday evening when a “suspicious man” was spotted in the Nordend district of the city, dressed in a U.S. police uniform and helmet, and seemingly carrying an assault rifle. 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

climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-May 27

  • Move Forward will tie 450-baht wage raise with other benefits/
  • ‘Novids’ warned as Covid on the rise/
  • Siriraj Hospital Says All Beds For Critical Covid Patients Full/
  • DDC tackles dengue surge/
  • 10 Thai slang words and phrases you need to know/
  • Immigration Arrests Taiwanese Gang for Defrauding People of 2.3 Billion Baht/
  • Cyanide serial murders: Company to face prosecution for illegal import, resale/
  • Taxi scams damage THAIFEX expo/
  • Heavy bags bad for kids’ backs/
  • Economy: Ministry vows to keep tabs on prices/Eastern Economic Corridor continues to flourish, official says/Thailand sets its sights on hi-tech cooperation with China/Oil price volatility expected later this year/
  • Tourism: Knowing Thailand, Vietnam’s tourism problems are clear/Chinese Tour Groups Visiting Thailand Still Down by 90% Compared to 2019/Phuket Launches Operation to Crack Down on Foreigners Breaking the Law/Thailand a top digital nomad destination/
  • International: NATO struggles in the shadows to find new leader/Man who opened plane door in mid-air says he was uncomfortable/Key facts about Neuralink, Musk’s cyborg gamble/Antarctic ocean circulation slowing rapidly/
  • 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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Move Forward will tie 450-baht wage raise with other benefits

The minimum wage increase will come with several other benefits, Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat promised after visiting a labor network in Samut Prakan on Friday.

He said the wage increase will be tied in with other aspects beneficial to workers, like better rights, a stronger social security system, and greater assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Continued …

‘Novids’ warned as Covid on the rise

Covid-19 infections are expected to peak between June and August and again next January and February, with those who have hitherto escaped the virus likely to contract it, according to a virologist at Chulalongkorn University.

Dr. Yong Poovorawan, director of the Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology at the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, wrote on his Facebook page on Friday that a surge in Covid-19 cases is expected. Continued …

Siriraj Hospital Says All Beds For Critical Covid Patients Full

Siriraj Piyamaharajkarun Hospital posted a message on its Facebook page yesterday that all beds for critical Covid patients are now fully occupied, with the emergency department also overflowing, thus it cannot accept any more patients.

The hospital’s emergency department is still awaiting referral patients, and for this reason cannot accommodate additional Covid-19 patients, the message said, while apologizing for the inconvenience caused. Continued …

DDC tackles dengue surge

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has opened an emergency operations center (EOC) to reduce the number of dengue patients after more than 15,000 people were diagnosed in the first five months of this year alone.

That figure was 5.4 times more than during the same period last year. So far, there have been 13 deaths from the disease. Continued …

10 Thai slang words and phrases you need to know

When choosing a new language to learn, Thai may not be on top of the list for many, even for polyglots. After all, it’s got one of the most complicated writing systems in the world, the tonal system is not the most easy for Westerners to get used to, and how useful is Thai when traveling around the world anyway?

Still, knowing language and knowing culture is important, especially when traveling. You’d be surprised by how much Thai people appreciate you trying out their language, even if it’s nowhere near perfect. Why not pique your own interest of the language by one of the most fun parts of language-learning: Thai slang words? Continued …

Immigration Arrests Taiwanese Gang for Defrauding People of 2.3 Billion Baht

Immigration authorities have apprehended the leader of a Taiwanese gang involved in operating a fraudulent pharmaceutical company amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The gang manipulated stock prices and deceived over 10,000 individuals, resulting in damages totaling 2.3 billion baht. The accused individual was found to have an arrest warrant from Taiwan.

Police Lt. Gen. Pakphoomphiphat Sajjaphan, Immigration commissioner, along with several other officials, announced the arrest of key suspects involved in the case. Continued …

Cyanide serial murders: Company to face prosecution for illegal import, resale

Following the shocking cyanide serial murders in Thailand, authorities have announced their intention to prosecute a company involved in the illicit importation and resale of cyanide to retailers.

The police officially confirmed that the Thai cyanide serial killer, Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, claimed a total of 15 victims, tragically resulting in the loss of 14 lives due to the deadly toxin. Adding to the complexity of the case, Sararat’s lawyer, Thannicha “Patch” Ek-suwannawat, has been implicated for allegedly aiding Sararat in concealing and tampering with evidence. Continued …

Taxi scams damage THAIFEX expo

Complaints about taxi scams at the THAIFEX exhibition flooded social media on Friday as passengers reportedly were charged 4,000-5,000 baht for trips from Impact Muang Thong Thani in Nonthaburi to Bangkok’s city center.

THAIFEX–ANUGA ASIA 2023, one of the biggest trade events in Thailand, returned for a full-scale exhibition for the first time following the pandemic, occupying 130,000 square meters of space at Impact Muang Thong Thani from May 23-27. According to the organizer, the event drew almost 2,700 exhibitors from Thailand and 40 countries. Continued …

Heavy bags bad for kids’ backs

Carrying a heavy school bag every day can cause spinal problems among children and worsen scoliosis, medical experts said, as they recommend limiting such bags to no more than 10% of a kid’s weight.

The warning came after one netizen raised concern about the weight of the bag that their Prathom 2 child had to carry daily, which is said to have totaled 4.5 kilograms. Continued …

Ministry vows to keep tabs on prices

During the transition period ahead of the formation of a new government, the Commerce Ministry has pledged to stay vigilant in monitoring and controlling the domestic prices of goods and services to prevent any impact on consumers.

According to Wattanasak Sur-iam, director-general of the Internal Trade Department, the agency continues to monitor the prices of goods, raw materials, and other factors that affect costs, such as oil and electricity prices. Continued …

Eastern Economic Corridor continues to flourish, official says

Investment in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) has been continuing to expand since it was legally inaugurated in 2018, with the number of investment promotion applications rising by 92 in the first two months of this year.

Their total investment value is 90.3 billion baht, Trade Policy and Strategy Office Director Poonpong Nainapakorn said. The number of applications for investment promotion in 2022 increased by 40.6% year on year to 637 projects. Combined, their total investment value rose by 62.7% year on year to 358.83 billion baht, according to official data. Continued …

Thailand sets its sights on hi-tech cooperation with China

Thailand has been flagging the idea of joining hands with China in tapping new energy and digital markets in Southeast Asia, a move that would elevate bilateral cooperation to new dimensions beyond tourism and tropical fruits.

The notion, mentioned recently by Thailand’s ambassador to China, Arthayudh Srisamoot, could also be beneficial to Beijing, as the world’s second-largest economy looks to the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the 15 members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership as alternatives to the U.S. market. Continued …

Oil price volatility expected later this year

PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) is bracing for possible challenges caused by oil price fluctuations and a global economic slowdown that could affect the company in the second half of this year.

Though the company benefited from the full reopening of Thailand, it is staying alert to the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, which was blamed for driving up global prices of oil, gas and coal last year, said Wilaiwan Kanjanakanti, OR’s senior executive vice president for finance. Continued …

Knowing Thailand, Vietnam’s tourism problems are clear

When my wife and I traveled Bangkok and Chiang Mai, there was nothing that outstanding about the famous Thai food and traffic infrastructure. While their transport system is indeed years ahead of Vietnam, I don’t think that’s the reason why tourism in Vietnam pales compared to our regional neighbor.

What impressed me the most was the hospitality and friendliness of Thai people. When we crossed the street, cars always made way for us in the politest ways. We spent six days in Thailand, but I barely heard horns honking, even though traffic jams were a frequent occurrence. Continued …

Chinese Tour Groups Visiting Thailand Still Down by 90% Compared to 2019

The number of Chinese tour groups in Thailand is still low – only 10% of the total that had visited before Covid-19 in 2019 – said prominent Thai tourism associations yesterday.

The secretary of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), Adit Chairattananon, said, “In 2019, there were 11 million Chinese tourists that visited Thailand. Of this number, 600,000 of them were in tour groups via ATTA.” Continued …

Phuket Launches Operation to Crack Down on Foreigners Breaking the Law

As part of the “White Accommodation for Foreigners” project, Phuket is launching a comprehensive clean-up operation to increase the scrutiny of foreigners who break the law.

This move aims to bolster confidence and increase the safety potential of Phuket as a tourist destination. This activity is part of the regular May 2023 program. Continued …

Thailand a top digital nomad destination

Thailand is the third-best destination in the world for attracting digital nomads after the United States and Spain, according to the online resume-building service Resume.io.

Resume.io said that it reached its conclusion after extracting 25,976 Instagram posts that featured the hashtag #digitalnomad and used geotagged locations to determine the most popular countries and cities. It pre-processed the dataset to ensure no spam accounts or bots were included in the sample. Continued …

NATO struggles in the shadows to find new leader

The race to be the next North Atlantic Treaty Organization boss is heating up. But it is a race run largely in the dark, with no sign of a winner yet. Jens Stoltenberg, the transatlantic military alliance’s Norwegian secretary-general, is due to step down at the end of September after nine years in the post. Continued …

Man who opened plane door in mid-air says he was uncomfortable

A passenger on an Asiana Airlines flight told police he opened a door on the plane minutes before it landed in Daegu, South Korea, on Friday because he was “uncomfortable”, according to reports. Continued …

Key facts about Neuralink, Musk’s cyborg gamble

Neuralink, Elon Musk’s brain-implant company, has won U.S. approval to test on humans. Here is what to know about the multi-billionaire’s dream project to enable the human brain to communicate directly with computers. Continued …

Antarctic ocean circulation slowing rapidly

Climate change-driven shifts in the circulation of waters to the deepest reaches of the ocean around Antarctica, which could reverberate across the planet and intensify global warming, are happening decades “ahead of schedule”, according to new research. 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, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s news-May 25

  • Electricity price to drop sharply from September/
  • Thailand’s Power Production Stable As Vietnam Kicks Off Nationwide Blackouts/
  • Heavy rain and thunderstorms threaten 50 provinces/
  • Netflix’s password sharing restriction has come to Thailand/
  • UK inquest: Brit stabbed to death with sickle by Thai neighbor/
  • Deceased police officer potentially 16th victim of Thai cyanide serial killer/
  • ‘Infrastructure’ constraints prevent US sale of F-35 fighter jets/
  • Thailand develops effective nasal spray against COVID-19/
  • Thailand’s economy: Overseas buyers to fuel Thailand’s real estate boom until Q4/Worries over baht volatility as coalition talks continue/Government revenues are shooting up/Construction, property, restaurants to be hardest hit by wage hike, study shows/Company Profile: Betagro/CPN to invest Bt10 billion for sustainability/Nissan Thailand and IVL broaden green footprint/Weed farms fret as MFP mulls U-turn on cannabis/
  • Tourism: Return of Chinese Tourists to Thailand Has Pros, Cons/TAT upbeat on arrivals in low season/Tourist taxes: All of the countries you will have to pay to enter in 2023/Thai food and herbs bid for pride of place at Asia Pacific exhibition/
  • International: Tina Turner: Music legend dies at 83/Super typhoon Mawar clobbers Guam with fierce winds, rains/World’s biggest warship visits Oslo, angering Russia/UN conference pledges $2.4B to head off Horn of Africa famine/Paralyzed man walks using thoughts with breakthrough brain-spinal cord implants/Indonesia adopts cool roofs to combat heatwaves, reduce energy costs/Syrians abandon babies at mosques, under trees as war grinds on/
  • 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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Electricity price to drop sharply from September

The Energy Ministry expects to cut the fuel tariff (Ft) in September, leading to a significant drop in the price of electricity.

Consumers can expect a reduction of 40-50 satang per unit for the September-December electricity billing cycle, Energy Ministry Permanent Secretary Kulit Sombatsiri said on Wednesday. The Ft rate currently stands at 4.70 baht per unit. The planned reduction was made possible by the easing of global prices of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), he explained. Continued …

Thailand’s Power Production Stable As Vietnam Kicks Off Nationwide Blackouts

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) confirmed yesterday that electricity production and supply is sufficient in Thailand, after Vietnam launched nationwide rolling power cuts.

Vietnam started nationwide blackouts as it struggles to meet surging power demand amid extremely hot weather with even the capital Hanoi affected. Certain areas may experience up to seven hours of power outages and the disruptions could continue through May 31. Continued …

Heavy rain and thunderstorms threaten 50 provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department warned of thunderstorms and strong winds in 50 provinces, including Bangkok, as weather conditions change due to low-pressure systems. From May 27-30, rainfall is expected to increase, and it could be heavy in some areas. Boats have been advised to exercise caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms.

The weather forecast for the next 24 hours is influenced by the southwesterly winds covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, along with a low-pressure area covering northern Vietnam and the Tonkin Gulf. These conditions could cause thunderstorms and strong winds in some areas of Thailand, especially in the northern, northeastern, and eastern regions. However, warm weather is expected during the daytime. Continued …

Netflix’s password sharing restriction has come to Thailand

If you’ve been sharing your Netflix password, expect an email in your inbox sometime soon informing you that it will cost you extra now that Thailand is one of the countries implementing restrictions.

The streaming giant has talked about cracking down on password sharing for a while now, a common practice with its subscribers, which is probably why a lot of people have criticized the move. However, Netflix has started to slowly roll out the restriction, beginning in the West while other regions followed afterward. Continued …

UK inquest: Brit stabbed to death with sickle by Thai neighbor

An inquest at a court in the United Kingdom concluded that a British man died from brain stem and spinal cord contusion after being stabbed in the neck with a sickle by his Thai neighbor in a row over loud music last year.

In January 2022, 49-year-old Marcus Evans from Somerset, England, was playing music from a Bluetooth speaker and drinking with another Brit, 55-year-old Shaun Dagnan, outside of his girlfriend’s house in Mueang district of Kanchanaburi province late at night. Continued …

Deceased police officer potentially 16th victim of Thai cyanide serial killer

A shocking revelation has emerged in the case of the notorious Thai cyanide serial killer, as a relative of a police officer who passed away three years ago claims that the deceased might be the killer’s 16th victim.

This suspicion arises from the fact that the officer had a meeting with the alleged murderer, Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, shortly before suffering a fatal heart attack. Continued …

‘Infrastructure’ constraints prevent US sale of F-35 fighter jets

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has provided an explanation as to why the United States is not selling its F-35 fighter jets to Thailand at this time.

There were several time constraints that prevented the U.S. from supplying its fifth-generation fighter jets to the Thai air force following the request for procurement, RTAF spokesman AVM Prapas Sonjaidee said today. Continued …

Thailand develops effective nasal spray against COVID-19

A research team at the Center of Excellence in Systems Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, has identified highly effective antibodies against COVID-19 from the human body. These antibodies have been developed into an innovation called COVITRAP, the world’s first nasal spray that traps and inhibits the COVID-19 virus using antibodies.

This spray has been certified as a medical device, and the team is confident in its efficacy for dealing with COVID-19 alongside other preventive measures. Continued …

Overseas buyers to fuel Thailand’s real estate boom until Q4

Thailand’s real estate will flourish until the fourth quarter, spurred by skyrocketing demand from overseas customers, real estate services and investment firm CBRE (Thailand) has forecast.

The head of residential sales, Artitaya Kasemlawan, said on Wednesday that the company’s sales to foreign buyers in the condominium sector had increased 383% and by 233% in housing estates over the past year. Continued …

Worries over baht volatility as coalition talks continue

Investors are concerned that the formation of a new government and political risk could lead to higher baht volatility over the next month, says Kasikornbank (Kbank).

The bank predicts the baht will move in a range of 33.80-35.40 per U.S. dollar during the next month because of internal and external factors. Continued …

Government revenues are shooting up

Government revenue collection exceeded its target by 8.9% in first seven months of this fiscal year, which began last October, the Finance Ministry’s Fiscal Policy Office said on Wednesday.

Its director-general, Pornchai Thiraveja, said 1.377 trillion baht in revenue was collected by the government during the period, and that this represented a 7.4% rise over the same period in fiscal year 2022. Continued …

Construction, property, restaurants to be hardest hit by wage hike, study shows

While the Move Forward-led coalition’s manifesto aims to address income inequality and stimulate economic growth, there are concerns about their plan to increase the minimum daily wage to 450 baht.

Businesses are worried this wage hike could have an adverse impact on their operations and profitability. Here are some details provided by Asia Plus Securities on the potential impact the wage hike will have on key industries: Continued …

Company Profile: Betagro

Betagro is a leading integrated agro-industrial and food company in Thailand. It was founded in 1967 and has since grown to become one of the largest food companies in Southeast Asia.

The company’s business covers the production and sale of animal feed, animal pharmaceuticals and supplements, livestock, swine, and poultry products, eggs, related processed food products and pet food, distribution of farm equipment, and related research and development. Continued …

CPN to invest Bt10 billion for sustainability

Central Pattana Plc (CPN) has set aside an investment budget of more than 10 billion baht for sustainability development under a five-year plan spanning 2023-27.

The company is also pushing its “Net Zero 2050” plan under “the ecosystem for all” theme, joining hands with partners at a green expo titled Better Futures Project at CentralWorld during May 24-29. Continued …

Nissan Thailand and IVL broaden green footprint

The Japanese car company Nissan Motor Thailand and the global chemical manufacturer Indorama Ventures are helping governments shape a cleaner future by producing more zero-emission cars and adopting eco-friendly manufacturing.

Executives of the companies shared their insights on Wednesday at the Bangkok Post ESG Conference 2023. ESG refers to environmental, social and corporate governance standards that can lead to business sustainability. Continued …

Weed farms fret as MFP mulls U-turn on cannabis

Community enterprises that grow cannabis on plantations in Nakhon Ratchasima are urging the next government, to be led by the Move Forward Party (MFP), to list only cannabis buds as narcotic drugs.

The MFP and its seven coalition partners touched on this topic in the memorandum of understanding (MoU) they signed on Monday evening, which will serve as policy guidelines for the government they plan to form together. Continued …

Return of Chinese Tourists to Thailand Has Pros, Cons

Thailand’s tourist industry hoped for a quick revival when Beijing ended its zero-COVID policy late last year, unleashing a crush of Chinese travelers freed from pandemic-related travel restrictions.

Data from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports showed that more than 517,000 Chinese travelers visited Thailand during the first three months of 2023, up from 13,700 arrivals during the first quarter of 2022. In the first quarter of 2023, Chinese travelers were in the top five groups of foreign arrivals, along with Malaysian, Russian, South Korea and Indian visitors. Continued …

TAT upbeat on arrivals in low season

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects Thailand to have received 10 million foreign tourists by the end of this month and to continue to have at least two million visitors per month despite the low season.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Wednesday that the country has continued to maintain a consistent record of more than 50,000 arrivals per day, which means the monthly minimum rate could be expected at 2 million per month during the low season. Continued …

Tourist taxes: All of the countries you will have to pay to enter in 2023

Travel has well and truly bounced back since the pandemic, buoying tourist destinations that were crippled by restrictions and closures. But some popular destinations are once again reeling under the strain of overtourism.

As a result, some resorted to implementing a “tourist tax” in 2022 and others have plans to introduce one this year. Continued …

Thai food and herbs bid for pride of place at Asia Pacific exhibition

Thai herbs and food innovations are key highlights at Thaifex-Anuga Asia 2023, Asia Pacific’s largest international food and beverage exhibition currently under way at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani in Nonthaburi province. The event is expected to help promote Thai food as a soft power.

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said at the opening ceremony on Tuesday that the country’s abundant and diverse agricultural products, such as rice, vegetables, fruits, and cassava, contribute to Thailand’s true strength in the industry. Continued …

Tina Turner: Music legend dies at 83

Singer Tina Turner, whose soul classics and pop hits like The Best and What’s Love Got to Do With It made her a superstar, has died at the age of 83. Turner had suffered a number of health issues in recent years, including cancer, a stroke and kidney failure. Continued …

Super typhoon Mawar clobbers Guam with fierce winds, rains

A Category 4 typhoon hit Guam on Wednesday, packing winds of up to 225 km/h and torrential rain, as it inched across the Western Pacific Ocean, but there were no early reports of deaths or injuries. Continued …

World’s biggest warship visits Oslo, angering Russia

The world’s biggest warship, the USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier, arrived in Oslo on Wednesday for a stopover criticized by neighboring Russia as an “illogical and harmful” show of force. Continued …

UN conference pledges $2.4B to head off Horn of Africa famine

A United Nations-backed conference raised SS$2.4 billion Wednesday to prevent famine in the Horn of Africa, which is reeling from its worst drought in decades as global temperatures rise. Continued …

Paralyzed man walks using thoughts with breakthrough brain-spinal cord implants

A paralyzed man has successfully regained the ability to walk using only his thoughts, thanks to two innovative implants that have re-established communication between his brain and spinal cord. The breakthrough has given the 40-year-old Dutch patient, Gert-Jan, newfound freedom after being paralyzed in his legs for over a decade due to a spinal cord injury from a cycling accident. Continued …

Indonesia adopts cool roofs to combat heatwaves, reduce energy costs

A low-cost, sustainable solution to the increasing heatwaves in Southeast Asia is being implemented in Indonesia through the use of “cool” roofs. These roofs have a special coating applied to them that reflects sunlight and reduces the amount of heat absorbed by a building, resulting in lower indoor temperatures. Continued …

Syrians abandon babies at mosques, under trees as war grinds on

One cold winter night, Syrian Ibrahim Othman went out to pray and came home cradling a baby girl, abandoned at the doorstep of the village mosque just hours after she was born. 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

climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-May 24

  • Thailand election: Senators still unsure about backing Pita/Reclassification of cannabis, no lese majeste reform in Move Foward coalition’s plan/MFP to go easy on wage hike/
  • Panthers at Kaeng Krachan Park/
  • Coke drinks to cost 1 baht more/
  • The Popularity of the Thai Durian in China/
  • More Thais open to buying battery-powered vehicles/
  • Renewable power deals to be ready in Q3/
  • Get tough on plastics/
  • US: F-35 fighter jets too sophisticated for Thailand/
  • Tourism: 300-baht tourism fee remains in limbo/E-visa limit will stop Chinese tourists from visiting Thailand: TAT/Cruise ship brings 1,800 tourists to Koh Samui/
  • Thailand Experience: TAT unveils Thailand’s ‘hidden dishes’ from its 5 regions/Last call for tourists to see the unique Thailand Grand Canyon/
  • International: New study pinpoints 83 million jobs that will go extinct by 2027 worldwide/Asia-Pacific countries need US$362 billion annually for climate action/Climate scientists flee Twitter as hostility surges/
  • 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 election…

Senators still unsure about backing Pita

The majority of senators have not yet decided if they will back Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat as prime minister, according to outspoken Senator Wanchai Sornsiri.

He said senators exchanged views about the issue on Friday, but their opinions do not represent their final stance or indicate how they will vote. Continued …

Reclassification of cannabis, no lese majeste reform in Move Foward coalition’s plan

Yesterday, Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party, along with leaders from seven other political parties, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at Bangkok’s Conrad Hotel to form a coalition government.

The signing, which took place on the 9th anniversary of the 2014 military coup, was framed as a significant milestone reflecting the success of Thai society in transitioning back to a democratic system through peaceful parliamentary processes. Continued …

MFP to go easy on wage hike

Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat said a coalition government under his leadership would not raise the minimum daily wage to 450 baht immediately but would ensure a reasonable increase without causing damage to industry or the economy. Continued …

Panthers at Kaeng Krachan Park

A mother panther and her cub have been sighted at Kaeng Krachan National Park, according to park officials. The frequent sightings of panthers, officials say, serve as a testament to the thriving and diverse ecosystem that is present within Kaeng Krachan National Park.

Coke drinks to cost 1 baht more

Coke has raised the price of soft drinks by 1 baht, it says to reflect the current higher cost of raw materials and transportation costs, but the overall soft drink market this year is expanding, due to the Asian heatwave.

Richa Singh, Coca-Cola Company’s marketing director for Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, estimates Thailand’s overall soft drinks market to be worth more than 56 billion baht. With the prolonged heatwave, easing of the Covid-19 crisis and the gradual restoration of consumers’ purchasing power this year, growth this year should exceed last year’s 7%, Richa said. Continued …

The Popularity of the Thai Durian in China

Although several Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam, the Philippines and Malaysia, are trying to take market share from China durian import, Thai durian remains popular.

In the first quarter of 2023, China imported more than 63,000 tons, up 78% from the same period last year. Thailand expects to export 4.44 million tons of fruit in 2023, worth a total of 200 billion baht. Continued …

More Thais open to buying battery-powered vehicles

Some 31% of Thais are projected to choose a battery electric vehicle (BEV) as their next vehicle, the highest proportion within Southeast Asia, although internal combustion engine-powered cars remain the leading vehicle of choice among consumers in the region, according to a survey by business advisory Deloitte Thailand.

Both Thai and regional consumers indicated a preference for new cars for their next vehicle. Continued …

Renewable power deals to be ready in Q3

The state grid is expected to sign power purchase agreements (PPAs) with companies selected to join the state’s 5.2-gigawatt renewables scheme within the third quarter of this year, says the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

The Office of the Attorney General is currently examining the legal aspects of the scheme, with power plant construction projects proposed by 175 selected companies. Continued …

Get tough on plastics

As the nation marked World Turtle Day on Tuesday, the caretaker administration made the decision to send Thai delegates to take part in the drafting of an international treaty to regulate the plastic industry, which will take place in Paris later this month.

The meeting is part of the ongoing effort to tackle the growing problem posed by marine debris. The attendance suggests that in the near future, Thailand is likely to ratify the international treaty to help tackle this debris. Continued …

US: F-35 fighter jets too sophisticated for Thailand

Washington has rejected the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF)’s request to buy two F-35 fighter jets on grounds that Thailand is not ready for such sophisticated aircraft.

An RTAF source said on Tuesday that U.S. Ambassador Robert Godec met RTAF chief ACM Alongkorn Wannarot last week to personally inform him of Washington’s decision. Continued …

300-baht tourism fee remains in limbo

The new government is expected to decide the fate of the 300-baht tourism fee, which remains uncertain because of roadblocks from unclear implementation.

Since the cabinet approved in February the collection of a 300-baht tourism fee from foreigners visiting Thailand by air and a 150-baht fee for visitors by land or sea, the scheme has not been published in the Royal Gazette, which means there is no impetus to start the project within a specific time frame. Continued …

E-visa limit will stop Chinese tourists from visiting Thailand: TAT

The current visa system must be changed if Thailand is to achieve its target of 5 million tourists from China this year, according to the Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The return of Chinese visitors since February has helped boost the Thai economic recovery, said TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing Asia and South Pacific Tanes Petsuwan. Continued …

Cruise ship brings 1,800 tourists to Koh Samui

The prestigious Costa Serena cruise ship has dropped anchor at Nathon Pier, Koh Samui, carrying more than 1,800 tourists.

Having embarked on an illustrious journey from Cape Panwa, Thailand, the Costa Serena cruise ship made stops at Sihanoukville, Cambodia, and Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, before finally gracing the shores of Koh Samui. Continued …

TAT unveils Thailand’s ‘hidden dishes’ from its 5 regions

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is hoping that “hidden dishes” from the country’s five regions will spark a new trend – gastronomy tourism.

Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, a deputy TAT governor, unveiled “Thailand’s Hidden Dishes”, which will be showcased at the “Bangkok International Food Festival”. The food fest runs from Friday to next Tuesday at CentralWorld. The selected “hidden dishes” are: Continued …

Last call for tourists to see the unique Thailand Grand Canyon

Tourists have only a few more days available to explore the weird and unique wonders of the Thailand Grand Canyon, known locally as “Sam Phan Bok”, before the rains arrive.

Situated at Ban Pho Sai district in Ubon Ratchathani province in Thailand’s northeastern region, “Sam Phan Bok” is the largest sandstone reef along the Mekong River. Continued …

New study pinpoints 83 million jobs that will go extinct by 2027 worldwide

The global job market will undergo significant changes between 2023 and 2027, according to the “Future of Jobs” survey conducted by the Chulalongkorn Business School and the World Economic Forum. The survey, which involved 803 companies in 45 countries, revealed that of the current 673 million jobs, 83 million will be eliminated by 2027. However, it also said that 69 million new jobs will be created. Continued …

Asia-Pacific countries need US$362 billion annually for climate action

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) highlighted the urgent need for significant funding to support climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts in the Asia-Pacific region. Continued …

Climate scientists flee Twitter as hostility surges

Scientists suffering insults and mass-spam are abandoning Twitter for alternative social networks as hostile climate-change denialism surges on the platform following Elon Musk’s takeover. 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, cha am, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-May 22

  • Wild Animal Rescue Network conference June 13-15 at the Avani +/
  • Garbage traps installed in Thap Sakae/
  • 14 dead macaques found during raid on house in Cha Am/
  • Thailand faces sizzling heat, heavy rain, and health warnings/
  • El Niño could return in 2023; what that means for the world’s weather/
  • Private Sector ‘Confident Senators Will Back Pita For PM’/
  • Experts call for uniform air quality indicator in ASEAN/
  • Is honey good for you?/
  • Covid-19 cases rise, related deaths up/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Property developers call for a gradual increase in the minimum wage/Sudden wage hike ‘may lead to job losses’/Jobless rate lowest in 3 years as tourism rebounds/Thailand’s first data center powered by renewable energy open for business/
  • Tourism: ‘Not Thailand anymore’: Russians flocking to Phuket — not all is well in paradise/Thailand’s Tham Luang Cave reopens for tourists in July/Khon Kaen Opens ‘Blue Lagoon’ Tourist Destination/US TV late-night star Conan O’Brien to feature Bangkok in HBO travel show/Phuket som tam restaurant returns 200,000 baht to European tourist/
  • Thailand Experience: Fish Sauce To Palm Sugar; A Concise Guide To Essential Thai Ingredients/Thai Street Food Food Tour of Bangkok: Video/8 unique experiences in Phuket/
  • International: G7 stiffens resolve to thwart Russia, engage warily with China/Spacex Sends Saudi Astronauts, Including Nation’s 1st Woman In Space/Investigation Begins On Two Ancient Shipwrecks In South China Sea/Are cryptocurrencies making a comeback?/German police say probing suspected poisoning of Russian exiles/
  • 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.

Wild Animal Rescue Network conference June 13-15 at the Avani +

Garbage traps installed in Thap Sakae

Garbage traps were installed at Hat Wanakorn National Park in Thap Sakae on Friday in a bid to combat marine debris and sea pollution.

The nets have been installed in an area spanning 38 meters in locations specifically chosen to trap and intercept the most amount of litter. Continued …

14 dead macaques found during raid on house in Cha Am

Provincial wildlife protection authorities discovered the bodies of 14 dead macaques during a raid carried out at a house in Cha Am last Thursday.

Rescued from the property were another five macaques, who were alive but had been confined to distressing conditions, devoid of food and water. The operation was led by Prawet Sunthornthai, the director of the local wildlife conservation team, following a tip-off from a concerned neighbor. Continued …

Thailand faces sizzling heat, heavy rain, and health warnings

The Meteorological Department has issued a weather forecast for the next 24 hours, warning that the northern parts of Thailand may experience scorching temperatures with partly cloudy skies during the daytime. Some areas may experience heavy rain and thunderstorms. Residents are encouraged to take care of their health due to the intense heat.

Meanwhile, the westerly winds blowing across the Andaman Sea, southern Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand are likely to trigger heavy rainfall in some parts of the western south coast. Continued … 

El Niño could return in 2023; what that means for the world’s weather

An El Niño appears to be forming along the equato  off the west coast of South America in the Pacific Ocean. That could have a big effect on the weather around the world.

For three years now, La Niña was large and in charge, but the La Niña ended, and now warmer water temperatures signal an El Niño probably is forming. Continued …

Private Sector ‘Confident Senators Will Back Pita For PM’

The head of Thai Condominium Assn., Peerapong Jaroon-ek, said yesterday the private sector is certain senators would definitely endorse Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat for prime minister, as they would not dare oppose voters who gave his party a huge victory, with Pheu Thai Party coming second.

Peerapong, who is also CEO of Origin Plc, also foresees economic and social improvement after the new government is formed, with this boosting confidence among both Thai and foreign investors. Continued …

Experts call for uniform air quality indicator in ASEAN

The need for a common indicator to track air quality in Southeast Asia has become more urgent, with drier weather conditions and the likelihood of the warmer El Nino weather phenomenon developing in the coming months.

This call from experts comes as Singapore is set to host talks from June 7 to 8 with ASEAN members Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand to develop a second road map for transboundary haze cooperation. Continued …

Is honey good for you?

Bees are, well, the bee’s knees. They are master pollinators. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, these busy pollinators “contribute to 35 percent of the world’s total crop production, pollinating 87 of 115 leading food crops worldwide.”

And, they create honey – a sweet, sticky, natural substance that they make as food for themselves. It also provides all kinds of benefits for humans. Sweet! Continued …

Covid-19 cases rise, related deaths up

The number of Covid-19 inpatients continued to increase and fatalities also rose over the past week, when schools reopened, the Department of Disease Control reported today.

The department recorded 2,632 Covid-19 inpatients from May 14 to May 20, up about 12% from 2,356 cases between May 7 and May 13. Continued …

Property developers call for a gradual increase in the minimum wage

Executives in the Thai property sector on Saturday called for the new government to be formed as quickly and smoothly as possible, and advised it to raise the minimum wage gradually to prevent a sudden surge in costs.

Worawut Kanchanakul, president of residential developer W House, said the new government should increase the minimum wage gradually, so entrepreneurs will be able to cope with rising construction costs. Continued …

Sudden wage hike ‘may lead to job losses’

The Move Forward Party (MFP) should let Pheu Thai handle the country’s economic policy, business leaders said, warning that raising wages too high and too fast could lead to job losses due to workers being replaced by machines.

Pratheep Watcharachokkasem, deputy chair of the United Chinese Clans Assn. of Thailand, said he had written to MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat. Continued …

Jobless rate lowest in 3 years as tourism rebounds

Thailand’s unemployment rate hit a three-year low in the first quarter, the state planning agency said today, declining to 1.05% from 1.15% in the last three months of 2022, as recovery in the crucial tourism industry strengthened.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy grew faster than expected in the first quarter, driven by the continued pickup in the travel sector, a key source of jobs that was decimated by the pandemic. Continued …

Thailand’s first data center powered by renewable energy open for business

UK-based Telehouse opened its first data center in Thailand on Friday, saying it will provide the best ecosystem for all internet-related customers in the country, while also meeting Thailand’s sustainability needs.

It will be Thailand’s first data center entirely powered by renewable energy, said Telehouse Thailand Managing Director Ken Miyashita. The new 2.5-billion-baht data center will be a safe and reliable hub of connection in Bangkok and the Southeast Asia region, Miyashita said at the inaugural ceremony for the data center. Continued …

‘Not Thailand anymore’: Russians flocking to Phuket — not all is well in paradise

It is no wonder that Russians facing travel restrictions to most of the rest of the world are flocking to Thailand. With its fine white sands, stunning landscapes and rich culture, “the land of a thousand smiles” has much to offer paradise seekers, never mind those fleeing a tightening autocracy, economic downturn and war.

The Thai island of Phuket expects to welcome one million Russians this year — the biggest group of foreign visitors by far — according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Some are escaping the dim of winter. Some are dodging the draft. Others are buying local property as a ticket to a new life. Continued …

Thailand’s Tham Luang Cave reopens for tourists in July

Safety measures are being implemented ahead of the Tham Luang Cave site’s reopening in July, as announced by Thailand‘s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

The cave gained international attention in 2018 when 12 young Wild Boars football players and their coach were trapped inside for 18 days due to flooding before being successfully rescued. Continued …

Khon Kaen Opens ‘Blue Lagoon’ Tourist Destination

Khon Kaen has inaugurated “Blue Lagoon,” a new tourist attraction featuring an emerald-green quarry surrounded by expansive limestone hills, spanning over 100 acres.

Located in Na Fai subdistrict, Phu Pha Man District, Khon Kaen, also known as the Nong Haeo-Song Khon area, Phu Pha Man District, Khon Kaen, this natural quarry has rapidly gained popularity among travelers. The sight of the ancient green quarry, glistening under the midday sun, has earned it the esteemed title of Khon Kaen’s stunning and novel “Blue Lagoon.” Continued …

US TV late-night star Conan O’Brien to feature Bangkok in HBO travel show

Former U.S. late-night talk show host Conan O’Brien is getting ready to release a show on Bangkok that is due to air on HBO Max, the popular U.S.-based streaming TV service, in the coming year as part of his “Conan Without Borders” series.

One of America’s longest-running late-night talk show hosts has been working in recent weeks in Bangkok with a broadcast understood to be in the pipeline promoting the world’s most visited city. Continued …

Phuket som tam restaurant returns 200,000 baht to European tourist

A European tourist was reunited with his bag containing money and assets worth 200,000 baht yesterday thanks to the honest owner of a som tam restaurant in Phuket.

The restaurant, Som Tam Yam 3 Aow, posted photos of the smiling tourist with a big stash of cash on Facebook with the caption, “From the incident where a customer had forgotten a bag at the shop yesterday containing cash and assets worth almost 200,000 baht.” Continued …

Fish Sauce To Palm Sugar; A Concise Guide To Essential Thai Ingredients

Thai food is famously known for its liberal use of flavors derived from fresh ingredients, as well as an array of pre-made condiments that add depths of flavor to food. Whether it is a soup, curry, salad or even grilled vegetables or meat, Thai food is packed with spice, citrus and tons of umami flavor.

While it isn’t always possible to peel, chop and grind ingredients to make pastes or condiments from scratch, one can always stock up on a few basic ingredients to bring that Thai flair to your food. Here’s a list of a few must-haves in your pantry, if Thai food is something you find yourself steering toward often, for meals like lunch or dinner. Continued … 

Thai Street Food Food Tour of Bangkok: Video 

8 unique experiences in Phuket

At Phuket’s far southeastern tip, sleepy Ao Yon Beach is the perfect place to ease into a Phuket escape. Accommodation at The Mooring Resort comprises a handful of stylish villas arrayed with a shaded swimming pool, with free kayaks and paddleboards for launching off a private bay. Just a sandy barefoot stroll away, The Cove dishes up wood-fired pizza and great cocktails.

On weekends, Ao Yon gets slightly busier, as local families swim at a nearby cove, picnic on the beach, and enjoy a scattering of street food stalls. If you’re after something more energetic, fire up the handy Grab or Bolt ride-sharing apps for the 20-minute journey north to Phuket Town. Continued …

G7 stiffens resolve to thwart Russia, engage warily with China

The Group of Seven (G7) nations signaled to Russia their readiness to stand by Ukraine for the long haul, while giving President Volodymyr Zelensky a chance to win over countries such as Brazil and India on the last day of a summit in Japan. Continued …

Spacex Sends Saudi Astronauts, Including Nation’s 1st Woman In Space

Saudi Arabia’s first astronauts in decades rocketed toward the International Space Station on a chartered multimillion-dollar flight Sunday. SpaceX launched the ticket-holding crew, led by a retired NASA astronaut now working for the company that arranged the trip from Kennedy Space Center. Also on board: a U.S. businessman who now owns a sports car racing team. Continued …

Investigation Begins On Two Ancient Shipwrecks In South China Sea

An archaeological investigation on two ancient shipwrecks discovered in the South China Sea was launched on Saturday, opening a new chapter of China’s deep-sea archaeology, according to a press conference held Sunday in Sanya, south China’s Hainan Province. Continued …

Are cryptocurrencies making a comeback?

Last year was a rough one for cryptocurrencies, as Bitcoin, the largest digital asset in the world, lost nearly 65% of its market value. Crypto enthusiasts were caught off guard by a series of unfortunate events, such as the Terra Luna crash, the collapse of major exchange FTX, and unfavorable macroeconomic conditions. Continued …

German police say probing suspected poisoning of Russian exiles

German police are investigating the possible poisoning of exiled Russians after a journalist and an activist reported health problems following a Berlin meeting of dissidents, a spokesman for the force said on Sunday. 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, hua hin, immigration, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-May 20

  • Downpours expected to herald arrival of rainy season on Monday/
  • Thap Sakae EV charging station part of 5,000km SE Asian EV highway/
  • The election is over, a new round of ‘war’ begins/
  • Pita Limjaroenrat: Meet Thailand’s (probable) next leader/
  • He promised change in Thailand. But will he be allowed to lead?/
  • Phitsanulok locals stock up on eggs amid rising price and tight supplies/
  • EGAT plans hybrid hydro-floating solar project in Khon Kaen/
  • Thailand sending essential supplies to cyclone-hit Myanmar/
  • C.P. Group collaborating with French companies on food, energy and transportation/
  • Tourism: Immigration Bureau Intensifies Crackdown on Overstaying Foreigners/Almost 10 Million Foreign Tourists So Far This Year/
  • Thailand Experience: 7 Most Scenic Bangkok Train Trips To Take At Least Once/Koh Samui Is an Idyllic Thailand Getaway/Isaan booming as fuse lit for annual Rocket Festival/
  • International: Queen’s funeral costs taxpayers £162M amid cost-of-living crisis/
  • 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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Downpours expected to herald arrival of rainy season on Monday

Heavy rains are forecast for most parts of the country when the wet season officially begins on Monday, the Meteorological Department announced on Friday.

Downpours are expected to be frequent in most regions of the country as Thailand’s summer season ends and the wet season begins, according to weather forecasts. Continued …

Thap Sakae EV charging station part of 5,000km SE Asian EV highway

Singapore-based charging provider for electric vehicles (EVs) Charge+ has announced a strategic partnership with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to boost the country’s EV ecosystem as it strives to become a zero-carbon emission nation by 2050.

EGAT will provide Charge+ with a site for a direct current (DC) charging station in Thap Sakae, about 320 kilometers south of Bangkok, according to a statement from Charge+. Continued …

The election is over, a new round of ‘war’ begins

After the polls have closed, the victories of two major opposition parties mark a new chapter in Thai politics, as the country enters the phase of forming a new government. However, the Thai political scene is abuzz with several pressing questions:

Will the Forward Party manage to establish the government successfully? Will Pita Limcharoenrat become the prime minister? Could the Forward Party face dissolution or will Pita face a dismissal? Continued …

Pita Limjaroenrat: Meet Thailand’s (probable) next leader

Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat is on the road to becoming Thailand’s next prime minister after his three-year-old progressive party’s shock victory in last Sunday’s general election.

The election results, which are awaiting endorsement by the Election Commission, show Move Forward in first after winning 152 of the 500 MP seats in the House of Representatives. Continued …

He promised change in Thailand. But will he be allowed to lead?

When Pita Limjaroenrat was a student at Harvard in 2008, he shadowed his American classmates who were campaigning at the time for Barack Obama. The experience gave him a window into electoral politics, from phone banks and polling data to knocking on doors and putting campaign flags on front lawns.

Fifteen years later, Pita said he used what he learned in Massachusetts to help his recent campaign in Thailand, where he stunned the country’s political establishment by leading his progressive Move Forward Party to a momentous victory. Continued …

NOTICE: Avatar Garden has temporarily closed for renovations. We will reopen about July 1. Stay tuned!

Phitsanulok locals stock up on eggs amid rising price and tight supplies

Consumers in Phitsanulok are bristling over a 0.2 baht per piece rise in the price of chicken eggs, or six baht per tray of 30 eggs. The price hike was announced by Thailand’s Egg Farmer Cooperative Network earlier this week.

The network on Monday told its members to raise the price of assorted eggs at farms from 3.6 baht to 3.8 baht per egg, the highest price yet this year. Continued …

58.5MW Floating PV Plant with Sungrow PV and Floating Solutions

EGAT plans hybrid hydro-floating solar project in Khon Kaen

The EGAT (Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand)–MPD Consortium has signed a construction contract for a hybrid hydro-floating solar project at Ubol Ratana Dam in Khon Kaen Province, Thailand.

The project will ensure renewable energy stability for sustainability, driving the country to achieve carbon neutrality, according to a press release. Continued …

Thailand sending essential supplies to cyclone-hit Myanmar

Thailand will be sending a plane carrying essential supplies to Myanmar, after the neighboring country was hit by powerful cyclone “Mocha”, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

The spokesperson for Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kanchana Patarachoke, said that the Thai government had expressed its concerns to Myanmar, where Cyclone Mocha has killed 145 people and left 800,000 people in need of food aid, according to reports as of Friday evening. Continued …

C.P. Group collaborating with French companies on food, energy, transportation

Charoen Pokphand Group Co. (C.P. Group) announced that the group will collaborate with leading French corporations on projects that span the agribusiness, renewable energy, and transportation sectors.

The projects and the broader partnership will strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation, introduce advanced technologies and innovation into Thailand, and create employment opportunities for the local economy in Thailand and France. Continued …

Immigration Bureau Intensifies Crackdown on Overstaying Foreigners

In their most recent effort to crack down on overstaying foreigners, the Thai Immigration Bureau (IB) delivered a robust display of enforcement.

Yesterday, a briefing was held to share the results of the dureau’s operations. In attendance were various high-ranking officials, including the commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, his deputies, and other members of the force. Continued …

Almost 10 Million Foreign Tourists So Far This Year

The Thai tourism industry is soaring, as seen by altogether 9.47 million foreign tourists having come here from the beginning of the year until May 15, with the biggest markets being east and south Asia, plus ASEAN countries.

Trisulee Trisoranakul, deputy spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, also said that total tourist expenditure during this period reached 391 billion baht. Continued …

Kanchanaburi railway bridge

7 Most Scenic Bangkok Train Trips To Take At Least Once

Flying is one way to get to different cities in Thailand. But if you’re after an epic journey that lets you wind through dramatic valleys, forests, and mountains, then you should hit the rails.

From short jaunts to cross-country trips, here are seven scenic trains in Bangkok for you to indulge in slow travel. We’ve even provided helpful train travel tips because you’ll most likely want to book a trip after seeing what’s in store. Continued …

Koh Samui Is an Idyllic Thailand Getaway

Phuket has its nightlife and Pha Ngan has its full-moon parties, while Krabi has the coastline and Koh Tao has dominion over Thailand’s scuba scene. Samui stands apart by offering a slice of it all, with strings of serene, white sandy beaches and blissful indulgence from a collection of the country’s swankiest resorts, combined with no shortage of amusement or adventure.

Thailand is picking up where it left off after a lengthy pandemic shutdown to international tourism, returning as one of the most favored of far-flung destinations. Koh Samui, part of the Surat Thani province, is an island found in the Gulf of Thailand about halfway down the country’s thin central land strip. It caters to tourists, and as such, rather than mourning the sense of calm their absence provided, it’s celebrating their return in grand style, eager to once again offer its signature, friendly hospitality. Continued …

Isaan booming as fuse lit for annual Rocket Festival

Isaan skies are streaked with gray smoke trails from May to July every year, as locals launch Bang Fai or bamboo missiles to prod the rain god awake. Celebrated in Thailand’s northeast and Laos, the Bun Bang Fai rocket festival blasts off to summon clouds at the start of the rainy season around the end of May.

“Bun” means merit while “bang” refers to the giant bamboo bodies of the missiles. “Fai” (fire) is what happens when fuses are lit and the sparks ignite the gunpowder packed inside. Continued …

Queen’s funeral costs taxpayers £162M amid cost-of-living crisis

The UK government has disclosed that the state funeral and related events for Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away last September, cost taxpayers almost £162 million (US$201 million). This is the first public estimate of the expenses associated with the funeral of Britain’s longest-serving monarch. 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, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news-May 19

  • Here we go again: Thai PM Candidate Faces Disqualification Bid/
  • More senators back Pita’s bid to be prime minister/
  • Move Forward musters 8-party bloc/
  • Business leaders want outdated laws scrapped, concerned over wage hikes/
  • Projected slowdown in global economic growth could hurt Thai exports/
  • Thailand aims for 80% global trade coverage with new FTAs by 2027/
  • Thailand’s Scamdemic: how Covid-19 supercharged online crime/
  • Thai snooker legend James Wattana loses 3.2 million baht to call center gang/
  • Farmers Guarding Durian Orchards Day And Night After Big Price Hike/
  • Thailand officially anointed as host of 2025 SEA Games/
  • Tourism: Number of Chinese tourists continuing to increase/British family offers reward to ‘detain’ teenager missing in Pattaya/
  • Thailand Experience: Hua Hin Offers Stunning Beaches, Waterfront Living and a ‘Hot’ Golf Game/Nakhon Ratchasima is world’s 4th city to be declared “Triple Crown” by UNESCO/
  • International: High stakes for Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian troops/New Covid-19 variant spreading swiftly/Colombian president says missing children in jungle still missing/Half world’s largest lakes and reservoirs drying up/The Noah’s Ark for plants beneath the English countryside/
  • 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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Here we go again: Thai PM Candidate Faces Disqualification Bid

Thailand’s Election Commission is weighing a last-minute legal challenge to the pro-democracy front-runner in the country’s race for prime minister, in a case that could derail the political career of one of the military-backed government’s fiercest critics.

The complaint against Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat bears strong echoes of the case that brought down another rising star of Thailand’s gaining pro-democracy movement four years ago and set the stage for a wave of anti-government protests. Continued … 

More senators back Pita’s bid to be prime minister

A growing number of senators are rallying behind Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid for prime minister, citing the people’s mandate shown in Sunday’s election and the MFP’s increased chance of forming a government.

Sen. Sathit Limpongpan has pledged support for a government coalition that manages to secure more than 250 House seats, or half of all the seats at stake. He joins at least 14 other senators reportedly gearing to back Pita’s bid to become prime minister. Continued …

Move Forward musters 8-party bloc

The Move Forward Party (MFP) has announced the formation of an eight-party alliance and the setting up of working groups to lobby senators for support and thrash out policy platforms, with a memorandum of understanding to be disclosed on Monday.

With the inclusion of the Pheu Thai Ruam Palang and Palang Sangkhom Mai parties, the MFP-led bloc has pulled in 313 House seats and requires 63 more votes to support MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid to become prime minister. Continued …

Business leaders want outdated laws scrapped, concerned over wage hikes

Industry leaders are looking forward to the removal of outdated laws to make it easier for them to do business, as promised by the Move Forward Party during its election campaign, but they are worried that implementation of wage hikes would hit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) hard.

The business leaders said they welcomed the formation of a coalition government led by election winner Move Forward Party, and hoped the next administration would take office soon to start driving Thailand’s economy to stability and sustainability. Continued … 

Projected slowdown in global economic growth could hurt Thai exports

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDB) expects the global economy to grow 2.7% this year, with global trade volume falling to 2.1% due to low growth among key trading partners.

Thai export growth could therefore be negative this year, making it imperative that the new government seeks new export markets and pursues trade negotiations to support Thai exports. Continued …

Thailand aims for 80% global trade coverage with new FTAs by 2027

Thailand is aiming to expand its free trade agreements (FTAs) to cover 80% of its global trade with over 50 countries by 2027, according to Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Trade Negotiations Department.

The department is exploring the feasibility of establishing new FTAs with various countries and trade blocs, including Israel, Bhutan, South Korea, the Pacific Alliance, the Southern African Customs Union, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The private sector has also expressed interest in forming an FTA between Thailand and the Mercosur trade bloc in South America, which comprises Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Continued …

Thailand’s Scamdemic: how Covid-19 supercharged online crime

Cyberscamming has become a trillion-dollar industry, with the numbers of both scammers and victims soaring over the past three years.

Many young Thais have been enticed by online job advertisements promising well-paid work in Cambodia and Myanmar. but once they cross the border into these “special economic zones” (SEZs), many wind up in the hands of Chinese gangs who confiscate their passports. They’ve been scammed, and now – on pain of death or torture – they’re scammers themselves. Continued …

Thai snooker legend James Wattana loses 3.2 million baht to call center gang

Thai snooker star James Wattana, who is better known locally as “Tong Sitchoi”, has fallen victim to a call center scam gang who allegedly cheated him out of about 3.2 million baht.

James, who has just won a gold medal in the doubles snooker competition at the SEA Games in Cambodia, said he received a phone call at about 11pm on Tuesday, informing about an allegation that he had been involved in illicit drug trafficking and money laundering and demanding that he wire them money to settle the case. Continued …

Farmers Guarding Durian Orchards Day And Night After Big Price Hike

Durian farmers in Tak province just across the border from Myanmar are guarding their orchards day and night to keep thieves at bay after a big price rise this year.

Chub Buasom, or Uncle Chub, a farmer in Ruam Thai Phatthana subdistrict, Phop Phra district, said previously durians were sold at 120 baht a kilogram at the orchards but the price has soared to 180 a kilogram this year. This is due to low output, with orchards affected by frequent temperature fluctuation, from hot to cold then hot again. Continued …

Thailand officially anointed as host of 2025 SEA Games

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt was in Phnom Penh on Wednesday where he was presented with the flag of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Tea Banh as Thailand prepares to host the next Games in 2025.

The 33rd Games are scheduled for Dec. 9-20, 2025, with most of the events being held in Bangkok, while marine competitions will be held in the seaside provinces of Chonburi and Songkhla. Continued …

NOTICE: Avatar Garden has temporarily closed for renovations. We will reopen about July 1. Stay tuned!

Number of Chinese tourists continuing to increase

The number of flights between China and Thailand is continuing to increase but is still significantly lower than pre-Covid, according to Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co. (Aerothai) President Nopasit Chakpitak.

A total of 12,805 flights landed in the country between October 2022 and April 2023, and with this increasing trend predicted to continue, preparations are being made to manage air traffic and ensure smooth operations. Continued …

British family offers reward to ‘detain’ teenager missing in Pattaya

A worried British family is offering a 10,000-baht reward to anyone who can locate and “detain on sight” a runaway 17-year-old believed to be missing in Pattaya.

The family has reason to believe that Ryan White, from Gateshead in England, traveled to Sin City after flying to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport one week ago on Friday, May 12. Continued … 

Hua Hin Offers Stunning Beaches, Waterfront Living and a ‘Hot’ Golf Game

A summer climate year round, jungle scenery and a currency with a more than generous exchange rate make Thailand a prime option for passionate golfers looking for second homes or retirement estates.

Thailand meets the sea along its southern stretch, with its coast bending like a horseshoe around its titular gulf. Hua Hin resides along the beaches of that horseshoe’s western shore — almost directly across from another tourist enclave, Pattaya City on the gulf’s eastern seaboard. Continued …

Nakhon Ratchasima is world’s 4th city to be declared “Triple Crown” by UNESCO

Nakhon Ratchasima, in Thailand’s northeast, has become the world’s fourth place to gain UNESCO’s coveted “Triple Crown”, after the international organization declared the Khorat Geopark a Global Geopark on Wednesday.

The Khorat Geopark covers five districts in the province, including Mueang, Sikhio, Sung Noen, Kham Thale So and Chaloem Phra Kiat. Continued …

High stakes for Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian troops

Ukraine’s highly anticipated counteroffensive will be an important test of its ability to make significant new gains against Russian forces, and of the effectiveness of the massive amount of military assistance provided by Kyiv’s international supporters. Continued …

New Covid-19 variant spreading swiftly

Doctors are warning that a new substrain of Omicron – FU.1 – is spreading worldwide at a 50% faster rate than the Omicron substrain XBB.1.16. The FU.1 substrain (also known as XBB.1.16.1.1) has infected 122 people worldwide, including one Thaiy. Continued …

Colombian president says missing children in jungle still missing

The fate of four children who were missing after a plane crash in southern Colombia was unclear on Thursday after President Gustavo Petro deleted a Tweet saying they had been found alive, adding in a new message that reports of their discovery was unconfirmed and the search still ongoing. Continued …

Half world’s largest lakes and reservoirs drying up

More than half of the world’s largest lakes and reservoirs are dwindling and placing humanity’s future water security at risk, with climate change and unsustainable consumption the main culprits, a study said yesterday. Continued …

The Noah’s Ark for plants beneath the English countryside

Inside bomb-proof frozen vaults underneath the English countryside hides a treasure trove of 40,000 species of wild plant seeds from around the world, many of which are in danger of disappearing. 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, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-May 15

  • Thais vote overwhelmingly for democracy parties, reject military/
  • Move Forward’s Pita ready to be next prime minister/
  • New government has room to spend 2 trillion baht on populist pledges/
  • Age no problem: 109-year-old granny casts her vote in Uttaradit/
  • Bangkok has highest turnout in voter history/
  • Western media agree Thailand is at a crucial juncture/
  • Post-election challenges for Thais and new government/
  • Scorching electricity costs may sear the economic recovery/
  • Scientists warn an El Niño is likely coming that could bring scorching heat to Earth/
  • Q1 GDP grows 2.7% y/y, beats expectations/
  • Southeast Asia and China top destinations for overseas business expansion in Asia/
  • Missing Thai Teen Girl found dead in north Thailand/
  • Phuket: 15th foreigner this year dies on roads in Karon area/
  • Thai rice exports soar in first 4 months of 2023/
  • Watermelon is one of summer’s most popular fruits, but is it healthy?/
  • Tourism: Thailand’s Electronic Tourist Visa Application: Is It Useful Or A Headache?/Lifeless Body Believed to Be Missing Russian Tourist Found in Phuket Sea/
  • Thailand Experience: Unravel Mae Hong Son – Thailand’s unspoiled tourist paradise/First-class on ‘the best train in Thailand’ – Bangkok to Hat Yai/
  • International: Kenya Doomsday Death Toll Hits 200, With More Than 600 Reported Missing/Turkey braces for momentous runoff after election drama/
  • 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.

Thais vote overwhelmingly for democracy parties, reject military

Voters have delivered a clear rejection of nearly a decade of military-aligned rule, election results showed Monday, backing two pro-democracy opposition parties.

The Move Forward Party (MFP), the newest force in Thai politics that channeled the energy of youth-led pro-democracy protests in 2020, secured the most votes. Continued …

Move Forward’s Pita ready to be next prime minister

Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat has announced he is ready to be the country’s next prime minister, as his party scored a shock victory in the May 14 general election.

The unofficial vote count as of 10am on Monday (99% completed) showed that Move Forward had won 112 out of 400 constituency MP seats and 14.1 million votes for party-list MPs, narrowly beating Pheu Thai, which also had 112 constituency seats but only 10.8 million party-list votes. Bhumjaithai Party was in third place with 68 constituency MPs and Palang Pracharath was fourth with 39 constituency Mps. Continued …

New government has room to spend 2 trillion baht on populist pledges

The upcoming government is expected to have around two trillion baht at its disposal for implementing its populist policies, according to an anonymous source from the Finance Ministry. The figure takes into account the 500-billion baht needed for the Pheu Thai Party’s pledge to provide digital wallet handouts of 10,000 baht to those aged 16 and over.

Should the government need to borrow money to fund the proposed policies, it can do so through an emergency decree. However, such decrees are bound by strict terms and conditions, such as a lack of alternative funding sources. Continued …

Age no problem: 109-year-old granny casts her vote in Uttaradit

Lek Boon-Air, a 109-year-old Uttaradit local, was escorted by her family to cast her vote at a polling station in Muang district’s Na Noi Witthaya School on Sunday morning.

Great Granny Lek is Uttaradit’s oldest citizen and has never missed exercising her voting rights, be it in local or national elections, Hat Ngiew village headman Noi Yotsombat said. Continued …

Bangkok has highest turnout in voter history

The 2023 General Election witnessed the highest voter turnout in Bangkok’s history. According to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), over 74% of eligible voters cast their ballots in the election yesterday.

Representatives from the BMA announced the unofficial election result from 6,360 polling stations in Bangkok in the early hours of this morning. Out of the 4,479,155 eligible voters, 3,339,664 exercised their right to vote, which accounted for 74.9% of the total voters. Among the total ballots cast, 1,191,989 were valid, while 48,694 ballots were invalid, and 98,981 voters rejected all candidates. Continued …

Western media agree Thailand is at a crucial juncture

Major foreign media outlets see the Thai general election as a major crossroads for a country familiar with military intervention in politics, but with a ballooning movement against the old norms.

According to the BBC, “The election is being described as a turning point for a country that has experienced a dozen military coups in its recent history. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, the army general who led the last coup in 2014, is seeking another term, but he is facing a strong challenge from two anti-military parties.” Continued …

Post-election challenges for Thais and new government

With more than 99% of the votes in the May 14 general election counted and the opposition on the path to forming Thailand’s new government, attention must turn to strengthening the country’s economy, attracting domestic and foreign investment, and alleviating concerns among the Thai population about its stability, Thanawat Polvichai, director of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, said today.

If the government has clear policies and strong political stability, the country will have a robust foundation for implementing clear and sustainable policies, Thanawat added. The new government must therefore focus on policies that drive the economy, with priority given to economic recovery through tourism and strong exports, both of which are showing positive signs due to the global economic recovery. Continued …

Scorching electricity costs may sear the economic recovery

An economic research house is warning that the reduced level of inflation seen so far this year in Thailand may be impacted by the surge in electricity costs, which is also driving up costs within the foreign tourism industry and eating into its viability.

This year, Thailand saw record electricity prices, something that may be seen as a key factor in the general election result, driven by a rise in charges and record high temperatures, which may continue for another month because of the Pacific El Nino effect. Continued …

Scientists warn an El Niño is likely coming that could bring scorching heat to Earth

Buckle up. The world’s most influential natural weather feature is shifting gears.

An El Niño is building along the equator in the eastern Pacific Ocean. And, there’s above-normal chances it will be a strong El Niño, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said this week. That could have dramatic impacts around the globe later this year and into next year. Continued …

Q1 GDP grows 2.7% y/y, beats expectations

Thailand’s economy expanded 2.7% in the first quarter from a year earlier, official data showed on Monday, faster than expectations, as private consumption and tourism rebounded.

On a quarterly basis, Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy grew a seasonally adjusted 1.9% in the March quarter, data from the National Economic and Social Development Council showed. Continued …

Southeast Asia and China top destinations for overseas business expansion in Asia

Southeast Asia and China are now the top choices for overseas expansion, with 83% of Asian businesses expressing interest in venturing abroad, as revealed in a recent report.

The Business Outlook report, conducted by United Overseas Bank (UOB), surveyed over 4,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as large organizations in Asia. The study showed that over four out of five businesses plan to expand overseas within the next three years. Continued …

Missing Thai Teen Girl found dead in north Thailand

A missing teen female who was last seen accompanying a murdered British/Thai boy to meet with an older Thai man was found deceased and buried in a forest in Lampang, northern Thailand.

On Saturday, Region 5 Police revealed to Thai media that police received a clue that something smelled very badly in a forest grove near the Mae Tan–Sobprab Road in Sandon Kaew, Mae Tha. A search was launched by police, local residents, and the female teenager’s relatives. Continued …

Phuket: 15th foreigner this year dies on roads in Karon area

Authorities in Phuket have ordered a clampdown on lax regulations to do with the hire of motorcycles on the holiday island amid a 64% increase in deaths mainly from motorbike accidents. The meeting on Monday night came hours before a Russian tourist lost control of his bike near Kathu Beach in the west of the province, becoming the 15th foreigner to die on Phuket’s deadly roads this year.

Early on Tuesday morning, rescue services in Phuket announced another fatal motorbike accident in the Karon subdistrict near Kathu on the west coast of the island. Continued …

Thai rice exports soar in first 4 months of 2023

Thailand’s rice exports in the first four months of this year surged to 3.05 million tons, resulting in increased income and confidence among farmers.

According to Alongkorn Ponlaboot, adviser to Agriculture Minister Chalermchai Srion, the continuous demand for rice in the market has driven the prices of almost all rice types in the country to exceed the guaranteed income prices, particularly jasmine rice, which has the highest production volume. Continued …

Watermelon is one of summer’s most popular fruits, but is it healthy?

As summer approaches, plans for backyard barbecues, pool parties and extended family time begin to crowd our calendars. And summer’s most popular and highly-ranked fruit is about to be consumed in abundance − to the tune of more than 40 million pounds. That’s watermelon, of course, the fruit known for its striking colors, juicy crunch and water-laden slices.

But watermelon offers a lot more than just being a delicious summertime staple. Made up of more than 90% water, the fruit is also incredibly hydrating and is loaded with electrolytes to help one recharge after a morning workout or afternoon of play. Continued …

Thailand’s Electronic Tourist Visa Application: Is It Useful Or A Headache?

In late 2021, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thailand switched the visa application process to an e-visa system that no longer requires applicants to physically hand in documents and their passports at local embassies and consulates.

We decided to try this system to apply for an ordinary tourist visa that allows for a 60-day stay in the Kingdom, plus an optional extension of 30 days, rather than the 30+30 with visa-free entry. Continued …

Lifeless Body Believed to Be Missing Russian Tourist Found in Phuket Sea

The lifeless body of a man who authorities said could be that of a Russian tourist who had gone missing after being thrown into the sea by strong waves was discovered in Phuket waters Sunday.

The body of a white male foreigner clad only in black shorts was discovered by a local fisherman at around 12:50pm, the Phuket Rescue Foundation reported. Continued …

Unravel Mae Hong Son – Thailand’s unspoiled tourist paradise

Nestled in the far northwest of Thailand and sharing borders with Myanmar, Mae Hong Son is one of the most spell-binding locations in the kingdom, and for many reasons, an ideal spot for an offbeat summer sojourn. Despite many unspoiled attractions, travelers are rarely aware of this sanctuary, partly due to its remote position (it is approximately 900 kilometers from Bangkok). This, however, just adds to its allure, as it remains untouched by mainstream tourism.

Mae Hong Son, Thailand’s most forested province, offers some of the most authentically rewarding experiences, luring you away from the chaos of city life to repose in nature’s embrace. The region is mostly covered in mist and surrounded by rolling mountain ranges, pristine forests, lakes, rivers, breezy grasslands, and other countless viewpoints that will leave you in awe. Continued …

First-class on ‘the best train in Thailand’ – Bangkok to Hat Yai

Bangkok to Hat Yai in southern Thailand is a 16-hour, 940-kilometer journey. Special Express 31 “Thaksinarath”, operated by State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is a modern, Chinese-built, diesel-electric train, which departs daily at 14:50.

THE CLASS

The first-class sleeper cabin, twin share, is one of just 12 and is located in the last car. Continued …

Kenya Doomsday Death Toll Hits 200, With More Than 600 Reported Missing

The death toll linked to a doomsday cult in Kenya hit 201 Saturday after police exhumed 22 more bodies, most of them bearing signs of starvation, according to the coast regional commissioner. Continued … 

Turkey braces for momentous runoff after election drama

Turkey braced Monday for its first election runoff after a night of high drama showed President Recep Tayyip Erdogan edging ahead of his secular rival but failing to secure a first-round win. 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, hua hin, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-May 11

  • Meteorological Dept issues tropical depression warning/
  • 23 Illegal Immigrants arrested in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province/
  • 50 satang reduction in diesel price just not worth it, says LTAT chief/
  • A volunteer’s view of daily life at Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand in Phetchaburi/
  • Thai, Chinese Police Cooperate in Crackdown on Chinese Crooks/
  • Covid-19 Guidelines Provided to Schools/
  • 78 million baht found in accounts linked to suspected ‘cyanide killer’/
  • Murdered youth’s father goes ballistic at re-enactment/
  • Wild elephant tramples woman to death in front of officials/
  • Expressway from southern Bangkok to Suvarnabhumi being studied/
  • The political significance of the marigold bloom/
  • Circular economy could generate millions of job opportunities/
  • Tourism: Thailand targets high-spending Middle Eastern tourists for tourism growth/TAT pushes for bigger visa quota to meet surging demand of Chinese tourists/
  • Thailand Experience: Thailand touts traditional charms of 55 cities and towns off the tourist trail/Most Extreme Seafood Tour of Bangkok/
  • International: Gold demand surges amid jitters/Toyota projects 10% profit growth, five-fold increase in EV sales this year/
  • 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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Meteorological Dept issues tropical depression warning

A tropical depression in the Bay of Bengal, which is moving toward Thailand, is expected to bring heavy rain to the northern, central, eastern, and southern regions from May 11-16, the Meteorological Department warned today.

A tropical depression forms when a low-pressure area is accompanied by thunderstorms that produce a circular wind flow with maximum sustained winds below 63 km/hr. Continued …

23 Illegal Immigrants arrested in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province

A substantial operation led by high-ranking officials from the Thai Immigration Bureau has resulted in the arrest of 23 Myanmar nationals who had reportedly crossed into the Kingdom of Thailand illegally.

The operation was directed by Police Lt. Gen. Pakphoomphiphat Sajaphan, the Immigration commissioner. The investigative team from the Prachuap Khiri Khan Immigration Office, under the leadership of Police Lt. Col. Nattawat Kaewthip Net, collaborated with military officers from the Jong Ong Suek Special Forces, administrative officials, and law enforcement officers from the Thap Sakae Police Station. Continued …

50 satang reduction in diesel price just not worth it, says LTAT chief

The Energy Ministry should bring the price of diesel down further if it wants to stimulate the economy and tourism, the Land Transport Assn. of Thailand (LTAT) said.

LTAT chief Apichart Prairungruang said on Wednesday that the ministry’s decision to only reduce the price of diesel by 50 satang per liter will have no effect on the cost of transportation. He explained that the cost of transport rises or drops by 3% for every 1 baht change in diesel price. Continued …

A volunteer’s view of daily life at Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand in Phetchaburi

Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand operates an extensive animal sanctuary in Thayang, Phetchaburi. Its website (wfft.org) will give you some great bird’s eye views of the facilities that have been purpose-built to rehome animals that cannot be re-released to the wild.

The sanctuary also provides a home to animals being rehabilitated after illness or injury and those that have been rescued from inappropriate settings in captivity, such as zoos, logging camps, tourist venues and private residences not able to properly care for them. Continued …

Thai, Chinese Police Cooperate in Crackdown on Chinese Crooks

National police chief sent Thai immigration police to China to work with Chinese police in a crackdown on Chinese criminals using Thailand as their base for illegal activities.

Thai immigration police flew to China to seek cooperation and exchange of information with Chinese police. The one–week trip from May 5-11 is aimed to prevent Chinese criminals from fleeing to Thailand and using the kingdom as hideouts. Continued …

Covid-19 Guidelines Provided to Schools

Caretaker Prime Minister and Defense Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Public Health to lay down COVID-19 prevention guideline for schools.

Deputy government spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul disclosed that as the opening of new school term is imminent, the prime minister has instructed two ministries to work together in laying down guidelines for prevention of the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases, such as influenza. This is due to the increase of COVID-19 infected cases following the Songkran holidays, coupling with the country’s entering into the rainy season. Continued …

78 million baht found in accounts linked to suspected ‘cyanide killer’

Police have tracked down several bank accounts with a total of 78 million baht linked to suspected “cyanide killer” Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, the deputy national police chief said.

Gen. Surachat Hakparn said on Tuesday that there has been a steady flow of money transfers to the different bank accounts from at least 12 people. Hence, he said, police are further looking into these transfers to work out their relations with the suspect. Continued …

Murdered youth’s father goes ballistic at re-enactment

The father of a British boy battered to death in Thailand has furiously confronted the man who murdered his son, screaming at him: ‘Look me in the eye, you b***ard’.

Shaking with rage, Steven Graham stared through the window of a police truck as sex crimes convict Chaiwat Boongarin, 44, was taken back to the spot where he murdered Woramet Ben Taota, 16, and dumped his body on Saturday. Continued …

Wild elephant tramples woman to death in front of officials

In a devastating incident, a woman was trampled to death by a wild elephant in front of wildlife officials in Wang Chan District, Rayong. Even after firing two magazines of bullets, the authorities could not stop the charging animal, which was extremely fast and caught everyone off-guard.

The tragic event occurred at a palm plantation in the district, where 40-year-old Namthip was fatally assaulted by an elephant. Police Major Saisawat Shinawong, an on-duty official at Wang Chan police station, was immediately informed of the incident and coordinated with local authorities, medical teams, and rescue workers to rush to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the wild elephant task force already guarding Namthip’s body and watching over the surrounding area to prevent the animal from returning. Continued … 

Expressway from southern Bangkok to Suvarnabhumi being studied

A feasibility study on the elevated motorway linking southern Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi Airport is underway and, once completed, it will be proposed to Cabinet for approval after an environmental impact assessment (EIA) is conducted, officials at the Expressway Authority of Thailand said.

The feasibility study on the 19-kilometer motorway between Srinakarin and Suvarnabhumi International Airport will take six months, and public hearings on the project will be held while the EIA is being conducted, the officials added. Continued …

The political significance of the marigold bloom

Marigold flowers have been in great demand in the months leading up to the general election, as politicians have been racing to meet people across the country in an attempt to win their votes.

People in Thailand have always used marigold garlands for religious or ritual purposes, partly because its name in Thai “Dao Ruang” means prosperity and its yellow color is associated with Buddhism. Continued …

Reminder: Due to Sunday’s election, there will be no alcohol sales from 6pm Saturday until 6pm Sunday.

Circular economy could generate millions of job opportunities

The circular economy is a concept that aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability by reusing, recycling and repairing products.

It has been estimated that this approach could create millions of new jobs, especially in developing countries where most of the waste management and recycling activities take place. However, a new report by the International Labor Organization (ILO), the World Bank and Circle Economy reveals a lack of research on how the circular economy affects decent work and vulnerable populations in the global south. Continued …

Thailand targets high-spending Middle Eastern tourists for tourism growth

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is focusing on attracting high-spending visitors from the Middle East in the latter half of this year, with the goal of utilizing this market as a new tourism growth engine.

Apichai Chatchalermkit, TAT’s deputy governor for tourism products and business, has stated that since Thailand re-established full diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia in early 2021, the authority has been increasing efforts to bring in high-spending tourists from the Middle East. Chatchalermkit also mentioned that Middle Eastern consumers hold a positive image of the quality of health and wellness businesses in Thailand. Continued …

TAT pushes for bigger visa quota to meet surging demand of Chinese tourists

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will next week push for an increase in the visa quota for Chinese tourists to meet rising demand and recovery of the sector.

Chuwit Sirivejkul, TAT regional director of marketing for East Asia, said on Wednesday that TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn will meet with Foreign Ministry executives next week to discuss the issue. Continued …

Thailand touts traditional charms of 55 cities and towns off the tourist trail

Tourists are being encouraged to sample the unspoiled traditional charms of 55 towns around the country, in Thailand’s latest campaign showcasing its diversity.

Local traditions and cultural heritage are the big draw, said Tourism Authority of Thailand Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn as he unveiled the “Amazing Secondary Cities, Must Visit, Must Love” campaign on Wednesday. Continued …

Most Extreme Seafood Tour of Bangkok

Get ready for the ultimate extreme seafood tour of Bangkok. Explore Bangkok for some of the most incredible street seafood! Get ready for some of the best and most unique seafood food in the world! Video 

Gold demand surges amid jitters

Global demand for gold among investors is growing this year thanks to turmoil in the banking sector, geopolitical tensions and a challenging economic environment, leading more people to flock to the precious metal as a safe-haven asset, says the World Gold Council (WGC). Continued …

Australia told to shoot kangaroos before they starve

Australia’s kangaroos could die in “catastrophic” numbers if a population boom is left unchecked, ecologists have warned, while backing the industrial-scale culling of the marsupials. Continued …

Toyota projects 10% profit growth, five-fold increase in EV sales this year

Toyota Motor Corp. revealed on Wednesday that a 10% increase in operating profit is expected during this business year, as sales of pure electric vehicles (EV) are predicted to surge five-fold with a reduction in global supply chain disruption caused by the ongoing chip shortage. 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