Category Archives: immigration

hua hin, immigration, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s News-July 19

  • Hua Hin Profile: Dr. Mowae Apisuttipanya at Be Well Medical Center/
  • Anantasila’s Got Talent event set today/
  • The latest drone video of Hua Hin railway construction/
  • Bright Dawn Foundation holds kids sports day/
  • Charter court suspends Pita/
  • Pita faces Hamlet’s dilemma – To be or not to be?/
  • Pita renominated for PM, immediately opposed/
  • US expresses concern about the democratic ‘will of the people’/
  • Thai cave survivor reunites with British rescuer at high school graduation/
  • Warning issued against personal use of dengue testing kits/
  • Diesel retail price to be held at 32 baht per liter/
  • Over 1,000 drug suspects nabbed in major Thai southern provinces/
  • Economy: Recovery intact, tourism rebounding – central bank/Why foreigners are acquiring Thai property/HP to move laptop production to Thailand/
  • Tourism: Thailand Aims to Attract 25.8 Million Asian Tourists in 2024/Thailand announces 2024 strategic direction toward high-value, sustainable tourism/
  • Thailand Experience: Aspiring veterinarian volunteers at Thailand elephant sanctuary/Two herds of elephants forage for food in fruit orchards in Trat province/
  • International: Singapore passport replaces Japan’s as world’s most powerful/ADB cuts inflation forecast for developing Asia/Australian Man and Dog Rescued by Mexican Tuna Boat After Drifting 3 Months/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Dr. Mowae Apisuttipanya at Be Well Medical Center

By Felicitee Lawrie

Dr. Mowae Apisuttipanya, or simply Dr. Mo, as he is known to many, told me he feels blessed by god, but I think it is also accurate to say that his family, his community and his patients are blessed to have him in their lives.

This is a young, friendly, highly energetic man, still in his 30s, who not only commits fully to life, but has survived and flourished through sheer tenacity and resilience, and who has been prepared to make considerable personal sacrifice for those he holds dear. If this man is on your side, you are already a winner. Continued …

The latest drone video of Hua Hin railway construction

The latest video documenting the progress of the new train line in Hua Hin has been shared on the Mike’s Tropical Tech YouTube channel. Video 

Bright Dawn Foundation holds kids sports day

The Bright Dawn Foundation recently held a sports day for the schools it supports in Hua Hin, including Nong Hieng, Wang Both, Nong Kra Toom, Huay Sai Ngam, and Nong Kra schools. There were about 700 students in attendance. The Bright Dawn Foundation provides healthcare and educational support to primary school children in or near Hua Hin. (HHT)

Charter court suspends Pita

The Constitutional Court this morning suspended Move Forward Party leader and prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat from duty as an elected member of the House of Representatives.

The court made the announcement after accepting for consideration a complaint involving Pita’s inherited shareholding in defunct media company iTV Plc. Continued …

Pita faces Hamlet’s dilemma – To be or not to be?

Most readers are probably familiar with the quote “To be or not to be” from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”. The same dilemma now faces Pita Limjaroenrat and his fandom: does he struggle on against a sea of troubles in a bid to become prime minister, or give up the battle and allow another to take his place?

Two months ago, Pita and his Move Forward Party scored an unexpected election victory over Pheu Thai, Thaksin Shinawatra’s brainchild that transformed into an effective weapon against the military junta that ousted him from power two decades ago. Continued …

Pita renominated for PM, immediately opposed

The eight-party alliance seeking to form Thailand’s next government proposed Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat as their candidate for prime minister as the joint sitting of parliament began today.

It is his second attempt to win the endorsement of the bicameral legislature after losing in his first attempt last Thursday. Continued … 

US expresses concern about the democratic ‘will of the people’

As Thailand faces the second round of decisive votes to elect the kingdom’s next prime minister, there is growing concern about a Constitutional Court petition that could see the Move Forward Party dissolved. This was referenced on Monday night by the U.S. State Department in Washington, DC, where a spokesman said the United States was concerned about the situation in the kingdom and respect for the democratic will of the people.

The U.S. State Department in Washington has gone on record expressing concern at the situation in the aftermath of the May 14 general election in Thailand. A top spokesman for the State Department, Matthew Miller referred to the pending legal cases being reviewed since last Wednesday by the Constitutional Court. Continued …

Thai cave survivor reunites with British rescuer at high school graduation

Five years ago, Adul Samon was rescued from a cave along with his 11 Thai soccer teammates and their coach. Now, he’s graduating from an American high school – and has reunited with one of his rescuers.

(The link includes a video news report you might find interesting.)

On June 23, 2018, the Wild Boars soccer team set out for an excursion to the Tham Luang Nang Non cave in northern Thailand after a practice session. Only expecting to be gone for an hour, they didn’t pack food or water. Continued …

Warning issued against personal use of dengue testing kits

In an urgent public appeal, Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cautioned against personal use of dengue testing kits. These kits, while acknowledged for their efficacy, have been approved for use by healthcare professionals only due to the complexity of dengue detection.

Lertchai Lertwut, the deputy secretary-general of the FDA, underscored that accurate diagnosis of dengue fever demands more than just the isolation of the virus. It requires a comprehensive medical examination and clinical assessment conducted by trained medical doctors. Continued …

Diesel retail price to be held at 32 baht per liter

The Office of the Oil Fuel Fund on Tuesday resolved to use the fund’s mechanism to maintain the current diesel retail price at 32 baht per liter when the diesel excise cut expires on Thursday.

The office director, Wisak Watanasap, said the Fuel Fund executive committee on Tuesday approved the use of the fund mechanism to maintain the diesel price at the current rate. Continued …

Over 1,000 drug suspects nabbed in major Thai southern provinces

In a sweeping operation against Thai drug crime, spanning seven southern provinces, over a thousand suspects have been put behind bars. The large-scale sting, dubbed “Sayob Andaman (Defeating Andaman) 7/66,” was conducted by the team of Provincial Police Division 8.

The detailed brief pertaining to the Thai drug crime operation was presented at a press conference in Phuket yesterday by the special adviser to the Royal Thai Police, Sompong Chingduang. Continued … 

Recovery intact, tourism rebounding – central bank

Thailand’s economic recovery is intact, with growth of 2.9% likely in the first half of this year and 4.2% in the second half, Bank of Thailand (BoT) Gov. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput said today.

The BoT would continue to gradually normalize interest rates to help the economy grow at its potential and keep inflation in check, the central bank chief told a media briefing. Continued …

Why foreigners are acquiring Thai property

Thailand maintains its appeal as an attractive destination for foreign property buyers, especially for those seeking a second home, despite specific limitations on property ownership.

As the situation gradually stabilizes and returns to normalcy post-Covid, the allure of Thailand’s real estate market is growing stronger. Continued …

HP to move laptop production to Thailand

According to a Nikkei Asia report published on July 18, HP is working with suppliers to shift the production of millions of consumer and commercial laptops to Thailand and Mexico this year to diversify its personal computer supply chain beyond China.

According to Nikkei Asia, sources briefed on the matter told the publication that HP, the world’s No.2 PC maker by shipments, is planning to shift some commercial notebook computer production to Mexico, while a portion of its consumer laptop production will go to Thailand. Continued …

Thailand Aims to Attract 25.8 Million Asian Tourists in 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is planning to attract 25.8 million tourists from short-haul countries next year, 2024. TAT Deputy Gov. Thanet Petchsuwan said TAT is targeting tourists from the Asian and South Pacific markets aka the short-haul markets.

The goal of attracting 25.8 million tourists from these markets was set during the recent meeting of TAT. This number represents 74% of the overall next year target of 35 million international tourists. The objective is to generate revenue of 1.2 trillion baht, which accounts for 63% of the total foreign market revenue target of 1.92 trillion baht. Continued …

Thailand announces 2024 strategic direction toward high-value, sustainable tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced the 2024 strategic direction that will continue to elevate the tourism supply and sustainable standards, as well as leverage Thai soft powers to promote and develop high-value and sustainable tourism in Thailand.

Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT governor, said, “2024 will be the year of accelerating resilience, transforming Thailand’s tourism into high-value and sustainable tourism that emphasizes elevating and moving forward to a better tourism ecosystem. Continued …

Aspiring veterinarian volunteers at Thailand elephant sanctuary

Surrounded by scalpels and bandages, aspiring medical students work hard to care for their ailing patients. Taking vitals, drawing blood and measuring heartbeats, they’re dedicated to their future professions. But not every doctor has to measure a patient’s trunk length.

As a Loop Abroad Veterinary Service participant, biology senior Brycelyn Ramirez spent two weeks in Thailand helping animals, discovering Thai culture and gaining hands-on veterinary experience. Ramirez and her team volunteered at the Elephant Nature Park in northern Thailand, working directly with the giant animals and learning about large-scale animal rescue and conservation efforts. The Elephant Nature Park houses over 100 elephants rescued from trekking, logging or forced breeding programs. Continued …

Two herds of elephants forage for food in fruit orchards in Trat province

Wildlife officials in Thailand’s eastern province of Trat have been trying to push two herds of wild elephants back into the forest, after they emerged to search for food on farmland and in fruit orchards on Monday night.

According to officials at Khlong Kaew Waterfall National Park in Bo Rai district, a herd of about 40 elephants, including several calves, are now foraging for food in cultivated areas along the road from Ban Nong Mai Hom to Ban Nong Bon. Continued …

Singapore passport replaces Japan’s as world’s most powerful

Singapore has replaced Japan as the country with the world’s most powerful passport, according to the latest ranking published by Henley Passport Index on Tuesday. It allows visa-free entry to 192 out of 227 global destinations. Continued …

ADB cuts inflation forecast for developing Asia

The Asian Development Bank cut its inflation forecast for developing Asia today, as food and fuel prices eased, supply chain disruptions waned and interest rate hikes started to bite. Continued …

Australian Man and Dog Rescued by Mexican Tuna Boat After Drifting 3 Months

An Australian sailor who had been adrift at sea with his dog for three months has been rescued by a Mexican tuna boat in international waters, the fishing vessel’s owner said Monday. Continued …

 

UPDATED! Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

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.

UPDATED! Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. 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

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-July 3

  • Thai Mobile Banking Apps Crash On Pay Day, Transfers Put Off/
  • Bangkok Bank Mobile App Continues to Have Widespread Issues/
  • Vana Nava ranked best water park in Thailand, 15th best in the world/
  • Conquer Singto Challenge held Sunday/
  • Hua Hin Bike Tour Tha Sadet cycling event Sept 10/
  • Police on alert ahead of today’s opening of parliament/
  • Are escalators and moving walkways safe?/
  • State hospitals in search of more doctors/
  • Thai company working on ‘milestone’ cancer treatment from tobacco plant/
  • After fatal accident, nearly 10,000 extinguishers found in sorry state/
  • Thai elephant Sak Surin safely repatriated after 22 years in Sri Lanka/
  • Interior Ministry rolls out digital ID app/
  • Southern Thailand’s military withdrawal sets off in full swing/
  • Get past school uniforms, reframe the purpose of education/
  • 70% work of India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway complete/
  • Economy: FTI seeks urgent measures to support Thai industries hit by export slump/Thailand’s sustained economic recovery pushes up energy consumption/Is nuclear power in the cards for Thailand?/Chinese EV Giant AION Opening First Overseas Branch in Bangkok/
  • Tourism: Thailand’s tourism confidence slides amid global economy concerns/Tourist forecast dips to 25 million for the year/Airport capacity at Suvarnabhumi to increase with new terminal and tech upgrades/AOT investing billions in its six airports to prepare for surge in passengers/Shifting patterns in global travel/LGBTQ+ tourism revenue boom fuels drive for legalized same-sex marriage in Thailand/Inside Thailand’s ‘rampant’ tiger cruelty as animals abused in zoos for selfies with tourists/
  • Thailand Experience: Harvesting Thai durian/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thai Mobile Banking Apps Crash On Pay Day, Transfers Put Off

there were loud complaints Saturday after mobile banking apps and online service of several Thai banks crashed, with customers told that cash transfers made from 2 pm onward would reach the destination by 7 pm Sunday.

A lot of people were affected by the outage with Saturday being pay day and many complained about the banking problem on various social media platforms. Continued …

Bangkok Bank Mobile App Continues to Have Widespread Issues

The Bangkok Bank mobile application has had a number of issues over this first weekend of July 2023, frustrating clients.

The issues began Saturday, in which many users continually reported being unable to connect and getting a picture of a lady bowing and apologizing for the inconvenience instead. This caused people to be unable to transfer money or pay for goods and services on a busy weekend with many people traveling. Continued …

Vana Nava ranked best water park in Thailand, 15th best in the world

Vana Nava Water Jungle Hua Hin has been ranked as the best water park in Thailand and the 15th best in the world, according to the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award 2023.

The award solidifies its position as a leading lifestyle destination in Thailand, attracting tourists from all corners of the globe, and reaffirms its standing as one of the world’s top water parks. Continued …

Conquer Singto Challenge held Sunday

The Conquer Singto Challenge swimming and kayaking event was held Sunday at Khao Tao Beach. The event raises funds for the establishment of a state-of-the-art school catering to children with special educational needs or disabilities. The event will help ensure that the Special Children’s School in Hin Lek Fai will soon open its doors. The event was organized Ejan, a Bangkok-based media organization. The participants had to navigate the 5-kilometer round trip to Singto Island or the 13 km kayaking course.

Hua Hin Bike Tour Tha Sadet cycling event Sept 10

Get ready for a unique cycling experience as the Hua Hin/Cha Am Tourism Business Assn. gears up to host the Hua Hin Bike Tour Tha Sadet event on Sunday, Sept. 10.

Aimed at promoting local lifestyle tourism and encouraging the use of bicycles for both tourism and exercise, this event promises to showcase some picturesque historical and natural attractions of Hua Hin and its surrounding areas. Continued …

Police on alert ahead of today’s opening of parliament

Three city police stations have been readied to detain suspects should there be any protest violence during important political activities planned this month, including today’s opening of the new parliament at 5pm.

The Metropolitan Police Bureau has prepared facilities at Thung Song Hong, Chalongkrung and Chorakhe Noy police stations. Continued …

Are escalators and moving walkways safe?

An airline passenger had part of her leg amputated this past week after an accident on a moving airport walkway in Bangkok, authorities said.

The accident, involving a 57-year-old woman, occurred Thursday in the domestic terminal of Don Mueang International, the older and smaller of two major airports that serve Bangkok, the capital. Continued …

State hospitals in search of more doctors

The work-life imbalance among Thailand’s medical personnel needs a solution. The latest example came from a doctor-turned-actress who posted on her Facebook that her overloaded work schedule at a provincial hospital ruined her life so much to the extent that she quit the job.

The challenge remains with the Public Health Ministry on how to create a better and fairer working environment for doctors and medical staff nationwide, while maintaining best practice in medical care at public hospitals. Continued …

Thai company working on ‘milestone’ cancer treatment from tobacco plant

A Thai plant-based pharmaceutical company has produced antibodies against cancer from tobacco and undertaken successful trials using lab animals, it said.

Baiya Phytopharm, a start-up under the auspices of Chulalongkorn University, is known for its Baiya Sars-CoV-2 Vax, a plant-based vaccine against Covid-19. Continued …

After fatal accident, nearly 10,000 extinguishers found in sorry state

An inspection carried out by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has found that almost 10,000 emergency fire extinguisher units across the capital’s 50 districts need to be urgently replaced.

The inspection was ordered after a student at Rajavinit Mathayom School was killed and 10 others injured when a fire extinguisher unit exploded during an emergency drill on June 23. Continued …

Thai elephant Sak Surin safely repatriated after 22 years in Sri Lanka

The enduring odyssey of Sak Surin, an elephant initially gifted by Thailand to Sri Lanka, took a homeward trajectory as the pachyderm touched down in Chiang Mai yesterday, ending a 22-year-long overseas sojourn.

Sak Surin’s journey back to Chiang Mai was an elaborate endeavor. Encased within a specially designed cage that was placed in the cargo hold of an Ilyushin IL-76, Sak Surin was accompanied by a team of four veterinarians and two mahouts who had journeyed to Sri Lanka earlier to facilitate the repatriation. Continued …

Interior Ministry rolls out digital ID app

In an effort to digitize various government-provided services and increase their accessibility, Thailand’s Interior Ministry officially rolled out a novel mobile application as part of its digital ID program on Friday.

The launch event was graced by none other than caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who wholeheartedly endorsed the newly unveiled “ThaID” mobile application. Continued …

Southern Thailand’s military withdrawal sets off in full swing

The forthcoming military withdrawal in the southern region of Thailand, which has seen 19 years of insurgent unrest, is currently in its initial phase, according to Fourth Region Army commander, Lt. Gen. Santi Sakuntanak. The four-year plan aims to gradually decrease military presence and remove the state of emergency that has been prevalent in the area.

Since 2004, Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani, along with certain sections of Songkhla, have been in a state of upheaval due to various kinds of civil unrest. This turmoil has had detrimental impacts on the lives of the people, the economy and the social fabric of the region. A planned military withdrawal from these areas is anticipated to bring some relief and push for normalization. Continued …

Get past school uniforms, reframe the purpose of education

The conversation over whether school uniform and hair rules in Thailand should be repealed has come and gone many times. As the arguments and counterarguments are explained, we seem to forget to discuss the purpose and real goals of education. A teacher activist invites us to ask what kind of education we want for our children.

School rules have always been an integral part of formative education, but we should ask whether some of the controls they exert actually make children focus more on study. Classic examples, and perhaps the easiest to enforce, are the rules covering hair and attire. Continued …

70% work of India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway complete

Around 70% of construction work on the ambitious India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway has been completed. India, Thailand and Myanmar are working on about 1,400-km-long highway that would link the country with Southeast Asia by land and give a boost to trade, business, health, education and tourism ties among the three countries.

The highway will connect Moreh in Manipur, India with Mae Sot in Thailand via Myanmar. Continued …

FTI seeks urgent measures to support Thai industries hit by export slump

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is calling on the government to lay down new measures to support industries affected by sluggish exports. FTI chief Kriengkrai Thiennukul said businesses need urgent support because many have cut down working hours to prevent closure.

The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has said it is evaluating strategies to provide quick assistance to industrial groups affected by the slowdown in exports. These groups include steel, roofing and equipment, furniture, machinery and metal, textiles, footwear, jewelry and accessories, glass and ceramics. Continued …

Thailand’s sustained economic recovery pushes up energy consumption

Thailand’s energy consumption rose by 3.8% in the first four months of this year, thanks to a sustained economic recovery following the easing of the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO), the rise in energy consumption was primarily driven by an increase in the consumption of refined petroleum products. Aviation fuel consumption saw a significant rise of 89.1%, while petrol consumption increased by 6.2%. However, other energy sources like lignite/coal in the industrial sector saw a drop of 8.9%. Continued …

Is nuclear power in the cards for Thailand?

Clean energy campaigns are not only promoting solar, wind and biomass power in Thailand, but also prompting conversations about nuclear energy.

Considered a highly contentious energy source by some people, nuclear power technology was addressed by Dhanin Chearavanont, senior chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group, during a recent speech he delivered at the three-day World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention in Bangkok, which ended on June 26. Continued …

Chinese EV Giant AION Opening First Overseas Branch in Bangkok

AION, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant, has signed its first memorandum of understanding for business cooperation with Gold Integrate, its first overseas distributor.

The company also announced the establishment of a subsidiary in Thailand, marking AION’s entry into the global market and the beginning of a journey to bring top-tier Chinese EV technology to the rest of the world. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism confidence slides amid global economy concerns

The second quarter of this year saw the Tourism Confidence Index remaining subdued, sliding from the previous quarter. The contributor to this drop was a blend of Thailand‘s low season and decreased earnings from tourism.

The president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), Chamnan Srisawat, announced that the second quarter’s score was two points lower than the prior quarter at 72. This noticeably fell short of the identical period in 2019, which recorded 100, inferring weakened optimism. The findings came from a survey conducted from April 20 to May 30, comprising 740 operators. Continued …

Tourist forecast dips to 25 million for the year

In a recent announcement, the kingdom is on track to welcome 25 million tourists by the year end, offering a much-needed booster to the economy. (Earlier predictions were for 30 illion tourists for 2023.) This follows a significant surge in Thai tourism, exceeding 12 million arrivals recorded late last month.

Between January and June 25 of this year, the kingdom saw a record-breaking 12.46 million tourists, marking an increase of 539% over the same period in the previous year. The bulk of these visitors hailed from Malaysia – totaling 1.9 million. China followed with 1.3 million tourists, then Russia, South Korea, and India, with 784,428, 741,909, and 732,523 visitors, respectively. Continued …

Airport capacity at Suvarnabhumi to increase with new terminal and tech upgrades

Airports of Thailand (AoT) is set to inaugurate a new satellite passenger terminal at Suvarnabhumi Airport come this September.

This addition is expected to bolster the airport’s passenger-handling capacity significantly, managing 15 million extra passengers annually, which effectively raises the total capacity to 60 million per annum, revealed AoT’s president. Continued …

AOT investing billions in its six airports to prepare for surge in passengers

Airports Authority of Thailand Plc (AOT) will invest 100 billion baht in the expansion of its six international airports in Thailand over the next five years, as the number of passengers is forecast to rise to 200 million per year in 2027, AOT Chief Executive Officer Kirati Kitmanawat said.

The expansions will be funded by revenue, which rose dramatically in the first six months of this fiscal year to 2.2 billion baht. Continued … 

Shifting patterns in global travel

In the midst of an uncertain economic and political climate, people in Thailand have various options for getting away from the frenetic pace of life in big cities and recharging their batteries.

Recent findings from Booking.com’s 2023 Travel Trends forecast survey show a rise in the popularity of wellness travel among Thai tourists seeking mental and physical renewal. Continued …

LGBTQ+ tourism revenue boom fuels drive for legalized same-sex marriage in Thailand

Thailand is witnessing a surge in the burgeoning LGBTQ+ community, as diversity takes center stage worldwide, boosting LGBTQ+ tourism in the country. As per estimates by LGBT Capital, an asset-management company serving the LGBTQ community, 5% to 10% of the world’s population identifies as LGBTQ+. This demographic represented around 3.6 million residents in Thailand in 2019.

During Pride Month this past June, massive crowds were seen participating in parades across Bangkok. This growing demographic has been a key contributing factor in nudging corporations to advocate for gender equality. Consequently, this shift is positioning Thailand’s tourism sector to capitalize on LGBTQ+ tourism, aiming to establish the country as a preferred travel destination that embraces diversity for both locals and international visitors. Continued …

This animal has been drugged

Inside Thailand’s ‘rampant’ tiger cruelty as animals abused in zoos for selfies with tourists

A new undercover investigation of Thailand’s zoos shows abuse of tigers for tourist selfies is still “rampant”, a charity has said.

While concerns about the treatment of big cats in the country have been raised for years, animal rights campaigner group Lady Freethinker (LFT) said it had found cruelty against “photo-prop” animals in recent visits to 11 zoos across Thailand. Continued …

Harvesting Thai durian

A video boasting over 13.9 million views within a mere day showcases the skill and accuracy in the task of durian harvesting. The durian trees, found in a farm in Chumphon province, tower as high as 5 to 9 meters, setting an imposing stage for the footage.

Video 

The video offers an adrenaline-pumping window into the complex process of durian cultivation. The person aloft uses one hand to exact a clean cut from the durian stem, afterwards launching the fruit toward the ground. Descending at high speed, the durians are adroitly caught by another individual on the ground. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-June 29

  • Hua Hin Profile: Mike’s motto and mantra : ‘Staples don’t quit’/
  • Dengue fever hits Hua Hin, 2 children die/
  • Standard planning 258-unit residential complex in Hua Hin/
  • TMD warns of torrential rainfall across 44 Thai provinces/
  • Pita ‘won’t get 5 votes’ for PM, says senator/
  • SRT looking at new electric trains instead of diesels/
  • Bangkok municipal pupils can wear hair styles and clothes of their choice/
  • Magnitude 4.5 earthquake recorded in Phitsanulok/
  • Economy: World Bank raises Thailand 2023 growth outlook to 3.9%/Tourism: 2 destinations in Phetchaburi and PKK selected for TAT campaign/‘Captive hell’: Report puts grim reality of wildlife tourism in the spotlight/Group makes plans for tourism future/No more street vendors on Pattaya’s Walking Street/1-in-10 travelers to Thailand now from China/TAT targets 5 million Chinese tourists this year/
  • International: Meat eating hits new low in Germany/Astronomers reveal evidence of universe’s ‘background hum’/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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The latest in our ongoing profiles of Hua Hin residents, written by freelance journalist Felicitee Lawrie.

Mike’s motto and mantra : ‘Staples don’t quit’

It is truly easy to admire Mike Staples. He has faced and vanquished a fierce adversary and he is full to the very brim with compassion for those less fortunate than himself. Now he spends his days enjoying his family and dealing with a huge extended family of his own choosing, to whom he devotes copious time and energy. A more charitable man I cannot remember having met.

Mike Staples was born in Dar es Salaam, in what was then Tanganyika, a British mandate in East Africa. His mother was born just south of the great Mount Kilimanjaro, also in Tanganyika, which eventually became the modern-day country of Tanzania. Continued … 

Dengue fever hits Hua Hin, 2 children die

Health officials in the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Public Health Office have increased measures to control dengue fever after the deaths of two children.

A total of 196 cases of dengue fever have been reported in Prachuap Khiri Khan province this year so far, with a one-month-old infant and a four-year-old child succumbing to the disease.

Standard planning 258-unit residential complex in Hua Hin

Hotel chain Standard International plans to launch two branded residential projects in Phuket and Hua Hin, while also opening five new hotels with 600 rooms across four destinations in Thailand during 2023-26 to capitalize on robust demand.

In the first quarter of 2024, The Standard’s second branded residential project in Thailand will be launched in Hua Hin. It will be developed by Sansiri Plc, the company’s parent firm, on a beachfront site located 4.5 kilometers from The Standard, Hua Hin hotel. Continued …

TMD warns of torrential rainfall across 44 Thai provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) today warns that a trough will pass over the upper part of the country, causing torrential rainfall in 44 provinces. The southern region will experience heavy rainfall across 70% of its area. Additionally, the seas are predicted to have high waves.

The department‘s weather forecast for the next 24 hours mentions that a trough will pass over the northern region of the country and Laos to join a low-pressure area along the central coast of Vietnam. Continued …

Pita ‘won’t get 5 votes’ for PM, says senator

Pita Limjaroenrat, leader and prime ministerial candidate of the Move Forward Party (MFP), will likely receive fewer than five votes from the Senate in the parliamentary election for the new prime minister, according to a senator.

The dust has already settled, and Pita will be hard pushed to draw five or more votes from the 250 senators during the vote, Kittisak Rattanawaraha, a deputy chairman of the Senate committee on political development and public participation, said on Wednesday. Continued …

SRT looking at new electric trains instead of diesels

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has proposed changing a plan to procure 184 diesel locomotives in favor of electric trains.

SRT Gov. Nirut Maneephan said the proposal has been approved by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) and will be submitted to the new cabinet with an unchanged budget of 1.5 billion baht. Continued …

Bangkok municipal pupils can wear hair styles and clothes of their choice

In an unprecedented move, following increasing calls for freedom and liberties in schools, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has decided to allow students in the 437 schools under its supervision to choose their own hair styles and to wear casual dress at least one day a week.

In one of two letters issued to district chiefs by Wantanee Wattana, the deputy permanent secretary of the BMA, students may wear whatever hair style they wish, but the styles should “look healthy” and improve the personality and confidence of the students. Continued …

Magnitude 4.5 earthquake recorded in Phitsanulok

An earthquake of magnitude 4.5 struck Phitsanulok last night, with the epicenter just 5 kilometers deep, according to reports.

Local media reported that strong tremors were felt in Pailom subdistrict, Bang Krathum district in Phitsanulok at 12.17 am on Wednesday night. Continued …

World Bank raises Thailand 2023 growth outlook to 3.9%

Thailand’s economy is projected to grow 3.9% this year, up from a previous forecast of 3.6%, helped by private consumption growth and a recovery in tourism, the World Bank said on Wednesday.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy expanded 2.6% in 2022, when its tourism sector began to rebound after broad pandemic-related travel curbs were eased. Continued …

Phra Mahathat Chedi Phakdee Prakat

2 destinations in Phetchaburi and PKK selected for TAT campaign

Two destinations in the region have secured a spot among the final 25 of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s “Unseen New Chapters: New Corners of Thailand” campaign.

In an announcement made during a ceremony presided over by Yutthasak Supasorn, the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Phetchaburi province’s Tham Bo Cave in Khao Yoi and Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Phra Mahathat Chedi Phakdee Prakat in Bang Saphan have emerged as chosen finalists. Continued …

‘Captive hell’: Report puts grim reality of wildlife tourism in the spotlight

Hundreds of animals in Bali and Lombok are being exploited for tourists’ entertainment, an animal welfare charity claims. The Holidays that Harm report by World Animal Protection states more than 1,300 animals were exploited for tourist entertainment in inadequate conditions across Bali and Lombok. The animals included elephants, orangutans and dolphins.

The recent report covered 34 venues in Bali and Lombok to provide a snapshot of the welfare of animals being used in the tourism industry. Continued …

Group makes plans for tourism future

The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FETTA) is hoping its revival will allow for a more flexible workflow and agenda-based development, after seven tourism associations recently quit the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) and joined FETTA.

Adith Chairattananon, FETTA representative and honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), said the federation will drive policies through a flat organizational structure without a hierarchy. Continued …

No more street vendors on Pattaya’s Walking Street

Pattaya City officials sent out a letter to Walking Street business owners earlier this week informing them of an upcoming change to current policies and procedures.

As of Monday, July 3, street vendors and stalls not part of a licensed building business will need to be entirely removed from Walking Street, according to the notice from Pattaya City officials. Continued … 

1-in-10 travelers to Thailand now from China

New figures from SiteMinder, Meituan and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reveal that over 1.3 million of the 11 million-plus international travelers to Thailand have this year arrived from China.

The figures, which indicate that Chinese travelers could constitute one-fifth of all international travelers to Thailand by year’s end, were unveiled at the “Amazing Thailand Sailing with Meituan” event in Bangkok. Continued …

TAT targets 5 million Chinese tourists this year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set an ambitious goal of attracting 5.3 million Chinese tourists and generating 446 billion baht in revenue this year.

However, there are challenges that need to be addressed to achieve these targets. One of the biggest challenges is the competition posed by other countries popular with Chinese travelers, as well as the recovery of the aviation industry. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Meat eating hits new low in Germany

Florian Busmann used to enjoy sausages and steak on the barbecue in summer, but these days he prefers meat substitutes and grilled vegetables like aubergines and peppers. Continued …

Astronomers reveal evidence of universe’s ‘background hum’

Astronomers across the world announced today that they have found the first evidence of a long-theorized form of gravitational waves that create a “background hum” rumbling throughout the universe. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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, cha am, climate change, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s News-June 28

  • Power outage Thursday in downtown Chat Chai area/
  • 110 tons of illegal buffalo meat destroyed in Cha Am/
  • Price controls of 51 goods and services extended another year/
  • Bank of Thailand to loosen foreign exchange regulations/
  • Thai masseur wows beachgoers with 50 million baht puke treasure/
  • Pattaya Motorbike Taxi Driver Returns Lost Bag Containing Nearly 100,000 Baht/
  • Police Move To Clear Criminal Record Of 13 Million Thais/
  • Line readies new features, eyes ‘chat economy’/
  • Economy: Baht at 7-month low on political uncertainty/How Thailand’s welfare state could change/German and French firms eye Thailand’s booming electric vehicle sector/Japanese eye EEC outlay of Bt3.7 billion/Ongoing US-China tech war likely to benefit Thailand/Japanese account for 70% of total investment in Thai industrial estates/The bioeconomy success of Wang Som Za village in Thailand/
  • Tourism: Russian tourism faces slowdown in Thai markets amid Moscow’s political tension/Sichon to champion ‘tranquil tourism’ in southern Thailand/
  • Thailand Experience: The journey of chilies to Thailand/2 chicken dishes from Thailand soar in global rankings/
  • International: UBS to cut 35,000 jobs after Credit Suisse rescue/US targets Wagner Group over gold in Africa/More than 90% of global aquaculture faces substantial risk from climate change/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Power outage Thursday in downtown Chat Chai area

A temporary power outage and road closures will be in effect in downtown Hua Hin on Thursday. The power interruption is is due to the relocation of communication lines as part of the ongoing Chomsin-Thapong Municipal Road Expansion Project. The interruption will occur between 9am and 4pm.

110 tons of illegal buffalo meat destroyed in Cha Am

In a move to combat the illegal smuggling of animal products, officials gathered in Cha Am on Monday to destroy 110 tons of illegally imported buffalo meat.

The meat was destroyed during a ceremony at the Wildlife Quarantine Center in Sam Phraya subdistrict. Continued … 

Price controls of 51 goods and services extended another year

The Cabinet has decided to continue controlling the price of 46 food and consumer products and five services until June next year, deputy government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said on Tuesday.

She said the Central Committee on the Prices of Goods and Services’ announcement on price controls is set to expire on Friday, and the Cabinet decided to continue controlling the prices to ease the burden on the public. Continued …

Bank of Thailand to loosen foreign exchange regulations

The Bank of Thailand has revealed plans to loosen foreign exchange regulations to stabilize the exchange rate long-term. The move, which shows a clear focus on balancing capital inflows and managing volatility, comes as Thailand’s economy globally integrates further.

Under the foreign exchange initiative, Thai individuals will now be able to pour as much as US$10 million into offshore markets, doubling the existing limit of US$5 million. According to Alisara Mahasandana, assistant governor and head of the Financial Markets Operations Group at the Bank of Thailand, this is part and parcel of the bank’s efforts to balance capital flows and manage the Thai currency’s volatility against the dollar. Continued …

Thai masseur wows beachgoers with 50 million baht puke treasure

A Thai masseur captivated the public’s attention by showcasing his collection of whale puke, found while plying his trade on beaches in the southern province of Phang Nga. If proven to be authentic, it could be worth 50 million baht.

The owner of a local furniture store in Phang Nga, Wirat Ratso, invited reporters to explore the whale puke collection at the house of his neighbor, 48-year-old Prapheut Sithatrad. Continued …

Pattaya Motorbike Taxi Driver Returns Lost Bag Containing Nearly 100,000 Baht

On Monday, an honest motorbike taxi driver in Pattaya city turned in a foreigner’s lost bag containing crucial documents and nearly 100,000 baht in U.S. dollars.

The driver, 62-year-old Chamnan Svansap, discovered the bag after dropping off a passenger and parking his bike. Noticing an unattended bag, he didn’t open it, instead waiting for about 10 minutes hoping its owner would return. When no one claimed it, Chamnan brought the bag to Pattaya City Police Station. Continued … 

Police Move To Clear Criminal Record Of 13 Million Thais

With the announcement of the amendment of police regulations on fingerprinting on May 27, which in the past led to fingerprinted suspects having a criminal background, thus unable to apply for a job despite the charges having later being dropped against them, the police are now rushing to clear the record of 13 million Thais thus affected.

Prinya Thaewanarumitkul, head of Thammasat University’s law faculty, said the unamended regulation led to suspects against whom charges were later dropped or who had died to continue having a criminal record. Continued …

Line readies new features, eyes ‘chat economy’

Line Thailand is preparing new consumer and business features and has embraced generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology as part of its plan to offer value-added services to users and target Gen Y in its network.

The company wants to develop a “chat economy” in Thailand. Continued …

Baht at 7-month low on political uncertainty

The Thai baht weakened to a seven-month low today as political uncertainty dampened investor appetite, while most other emerging Asian currencies also depreciated against a firmer dollar after resilient U.S. data eased recession concerns.

Equities in the region were largely in the red, with shares in Seoul taking the biggest hit, declining 0.8%, while those in the Philippines and China lost 0.3% and 0.5%, respectively. Continued …

How Thailand’s welfare state could change

For the past few decades, many countries have been working toward providing “healthcare for all”, including equity in access to healthcare and healthcare financing.

Thailand has declared equitable healthcare to be an integral part of its development strategy over many decades. Continued …

German and French firms eye Thailand’s booming electric vehicle sector

A surge of interest in Thailand’s budding electric vehicle (EV) industry has been noted among businesses from France and Germany. The Thailand Board of Investment (BoI) revealed this interest following an investment promotion roadshow in these European nations.

BoI Deputy Secretary-General Wirat Tatsaringkansakul suggested a particularly keen receptiveness from French and German investors. These potential investors are reportedly looking into expanding their production bases and outsourcing companies to satisfy the surging demand of the Asian market. Continued …

Japanese eye EEC outlay of Bt3.7 billion

At least three Japanese firms are expected to invest roughly 3.7 billion baht in industries such as electric vehicles (EVs) and smart electronics in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), says the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT).

The three Nagoya-based companies indicated interest in buying 200 rai of land in the EEC, which covers parts of Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao. Continued …

Ongoing US-China tech war likely to benefit Thailand

The Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) says the ongoing technological competition between the U.S. and China is prompting several companies to relocate their manufacturing bases, presenting opportunities for Thailand.

OIE Director-General Warawan Chitaroon said this competition is expected to continue and has so far influenced several major semiconductor firms to shift their production bases from China to countries that are not direct competitors in the technology war, particularly those in Southeast Asia with relatively stable political environments. Continued …

Japanese account for 70% of total investment in Thai industrial estates

The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) is actively encouraging the electronics and steel industries to focus on manufacturing products that utilize advanced technologies and innovations, collaborating with Japanese expertise.

Veeris Ammarapala, the IEAT governor, revealed that a delegation of developers from 10 industrial estates had participated in an investment promotion roadshow in the industrial estates in Nakhon Ratchasima province, which has industrial potential, and ranks third in Japan’s economic cities. Continued …

The bioeconomy success of Wang Som Za village in Thailand

In Phitsanulok province, about 400 kilometers from Bangkok, the community of Wang Som Za village has restored a local variety of orange, Som Za, after which the village is also named. The orange variety is called “za” because the fruit tastes tangy.

This bitter orange is the center of the community’s bioeconomy efforts to recover their surrounding ecosystems and provide a better livelihood for their communities. Continued …

Russian tourism faces slowdown in Thai markets amid Moscow’s political tension

Amid heightened political tensions in Moscow, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) observes a potential slowdown in Russian tourists to Thailand, although an increase in long-term stay visitors is also predicted if the situation worsens further.

To comprehend the short-term market movements of Russian tourism in detail, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has instructed its Moscow office to keep a vigilant watch over the evolving scenario. Continued …

Sichon to champion ‘tranquil tourism’ in southern Thailand

Southern Thailand never fails to wow the world’s travelers with its sandy beaches, spectacular scenery and rich cultural heritage. Now, a new destination is about to emerge onto the world stage as a haven of “tranquil tourism.” With the new international terminal at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport set to open by Q4 2023, the coastal enclave of Sichon is poised to become a new jewel in Thailand’s tourism crown.

Sichon is a serene and peaceful destination where travelers can embrace Thailand as it has existed for centuries. Buddhists pay their respects in ancient temples, fishermen pull their catches up onto the beach from emerald green waters, farmers wrestle coconuts down from soaring palms, and artisans patiently work looms to weave materials dyed by natural colors derived from local fruits. Continued … 

The journey of chilies to Thailand

The vibrant Thai cuisine, known for its distinctive combination of flavors – sweet, sour, salty, and spicy – owes much of its kick to an ingredient that was surprisingly not indigenous to the region: the chili pepper.

The chili pepper’s journey to Thailand is a fascinating tale of global exploration and cultural fusion. This voyage of the chili began around 1492 when Christopher Columbus, the Genoese explorer, first encountered these fiery fruits in the Caribbean while he was in search of India and its prized spices. Interestingly, Columbus and his crew initially mistook chilies for a type of pepper – hence the name “chili pepper.” Continued …

2 chicken dishes from Thailand soar in global rankings

A recent ranking of global chicken dishes by the esteemed food mapping site TasteAtlas has positioned two Thai food plates among the top 50.

Thai meals Khao mok kai (a Muslim-style platter of chicken with saffron-flavored rice) and Kai yang (simple grilled chicken dish) were No. 38 and No. 46, respectively. Khao mok kai notched up a commendable 4.3-star rating out of 5. Kai yang procured a solid rating of 4.2 stars. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

UBS to cut 35,000 jobs after Credit Suisse rescue

Swiss banking group UBS plans to cut 35,000 jobs at Credit Suisse — more than half its workforce — as part of the emergency rescue takeover of its rival in March, according to a report by Bloomberg News. Continued …

US targets Wagner Group over gold in Africa

The United States on Tuesday imposed sanctions aimed at disrupting gold mining activities that fund the Wagner Group in Africa, vowing to hold the mercenaries accountable for abuses days after they staged a mutiny in Russia. Continued …

More than 90% of global aquaculture faces substantial risk from climate change

Many of the world’s largest aquatic food producers are highly vulnerable to human-induced climate change, with some of the highest-risk countries in Asia, Latin America and Africa demonstrating the lowest capacity for adaptation, a landmark study has shown. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-June 23

  • Explosion engulfs Hua Hin hotel, 500,000 THB worth of damage/
  • Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit through Sunday/
  • Common mistakes to avoid while learning Thai/
  • Healthcare staffing shortage tackled by Thai government with new strategy/
  • Overloaded Thai public health system sees exhausted doctors quit in droves/
  • Thai healthcare costs skyrocket/
  • ‘No serious quake threat to Thailand’ from major Sagaing Fault in Myanmar/
  • Algerian Man, Dressed as a Woman Arrested for visa overstay/
  • Thailand International Dog Show in Bangkok, July 6-9/
  • Durian lovers rejoice as prices plunge on surplus/
  • Economy: Examining Thailand’s Economic Revival and Investment Opportunities/Insights of five EV customer segments in Thailand/Thai village profits from hot-season tokay gecko trade exports to China/Bangkok Airways triumphs at World Airline Awards for 7th consecutive year/
  • Tourism: Thailand ranks second in global travel, Bangkok tops city list/Thai tourism-linked businesses experience booming growth amid economic recovery/Chinese tourism deterred by tourist scams in Thailand, says ATTA/World Hindu Congress to be hosted by Bangkok this year, boosting Thai tourism/
  • International: Titanic sub destroyed in ‘catastrophic implosion,’ all five aboard dead/Diabetes cases to double to 1.3 billion by 2050/US county sues oil companies for $51 billion over ‘Heat Dome’ disaster/€60 billion pledged to help Ukraine rebuild/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Explosion engulfs Hua Hin hotel, 500,000 THB worth of damage

Pigeons were said to have caused a sudden explosion that led to a fire engulfing a hotel room in Hua Hin, resulting in damages amounting to half a million baht.

On Thursday afternoon, Lt. Col.Pichcha Rangleuan, deputy superintendent of Hua Hin Police Station, received a report regarding a fire incident at room number 164/5-6 of Sunny House, which is located adjacent to the railway, just off Soi 70. Continued … Pigeons were said to have caused a sudden explosion that led to a fire engulfing a hotel room in Hua Hin, resulting in damages amounting to half a million baht. Continued …

Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit through Sunday

Hua Hin’s renowned durian cultivation hub, Pa La U, is currently hosting the highly anticipated Pa La U durian and fruit festival.

This Ban Pa La-U Fruit and Good Products Expo, which is now in its 10th year, aims to celebrate the delectable fruit and showcases a wide range of local agricultural products. Continued …

 

Common mistakes to avoid while learning Thai

Oh, the joys of learning a new language! Thai is a fascinating language, filled with unique sounds, tones, and expressions that promise to make your learning experience an exciting adventure.

But, like any language, Thai comes with its fair share of challenges and common Thai language mistakes that might catch you off guard. No worries, though! Along with our friends at ALA Language School, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common mistakes you should steer clear of when learning Thai. Continued …

Healthcare staffing shortage tackled by Thai government with new strategy

The Public Health Ministry has laid out strategies to address the ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals in the nation’s state-operated medical sector. Within the next three years, these measures aim to expand the country’s cadre of medical personnel according to current legal parameters.

Government spokesperson Anucha Buraphachaisri indicated the interventions may result in a 40% increase in doctors and over a 50% surge in nursing staff by 2026. Continued …

Overloaded Thai public health system sees exhausted doctors quit in droves

Every year, hundreds of doctors leave the government sector after struggling under huge workloads for relatively low pay and with little prospect of promotion.

The numbers exiting the public health service are significant, given that the Public Health Ministry employs just 24,469 doctors. Over the past decade, around 450 doctors have left each year, along with at least 150 who have retired from public service. Continued …

Thai healthcare costs skyrocket

We all want good health and decent public health welfare. When we fall ill, the cures are also much more effective thanks to modern medical advancements. But the soaring costs of healthcare have made it beyond most people’s grasp.

Over the past two decades, global healthcare spending has more than doubled, skyrocketing from $4.2 trillion (145.8 trillion baht) in 2000 to an astounding $8.5 trillion in 2019. Continued …

‘No serious quake threat to Thailand’ from major Sagaing Fault in Myanmar

A major active fault in Myanmar could still trigger a 7.5-magnitude earthquake in 5-10 years, but will cause no serious damage to Thailand, the Mineral Resources Department said on Thursday.

Oranuch Lorpensri, director-general of the department, said the Sagaing Fault in Myanmar is still active and it could unleash enough power to trigger an earthquake with up to 7.5 magnitude in about 5-10 years. Continued …

Algerian Man, Dressed as a Woman Arrested for visa overstay

An Algerian man was arrested in Bangkok for 251 days of overstaying his legal visa after he allegedly tried to dress as a woman in order to avoid Thai Immigration officers.

Relevant officials from the Bangkok Thai Immigration Office arrested a 38-year-old Algerian man at a housing estate in Bueng Kum. Officers found that the Algerian man was dressed as a woman before they arrested him. Continued … 

Thailand International Dog Show in Bangkok, July 6-9

Attention to dog lovers! Don’t miss this year’s “21st Thailand International Dog Show2023” at IMPACT in Bangkok. Exclusive this year is a Grooming contest, with a dressing up theme of “Dog Show Sahara” and with more than 250 vendors.

The fair will be held from July 6-9 at building 5-6 at IMPACT. Continued …

Durian lovers rejoice as prices plunge on surplus

Singaporeans love durians. And this year, the spiky and pungent fruit is in such abundance that it can be found in claw machines, giving enthusiasts a chance to catch one for just a dollar.

A surplus in major producer Malaysia has pushed prices in the city-state down to levels never seen before. Premium varieties like Musang King were selling for as cheap as S$3 ($2.24) a kilogram earlier this month. Continued …

Examining Thailand’s Economic Revival and Investment Opportunities

Thailand’s GDP outlook is expected to grow between 2.7%-3.6% in 2023, an increase from 2.6% in 2022. Economic growth will be boosted by a recovering tourism industry and improving private consumption.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy was in a severe recession in 2020 due to the pandemic. GDP fell by 6.1% in that year, which represented Thailand’s largest contraction since the Asian financial crisis. Continued …

Insights of five EV customer segments in Thailand

Krungsri Auto, a leader in automotive finance under Bank of Ayudhya PCL., unveiled insights into five electric vehicle (EV) customer segments based on the consolidated data of its current EV loan portfolio, forecasting EV market growth, with potentials for automotive financing providers in responding to EV users’ needs and taping into their lifestyle in all dimensions. Insights of five EV customer segments gathered from real EV finance user behaviors are:

Segment 1 – A stylish executive with a stable income

This group is the early adopter of EVs, making up the largest proportion of current EV owners. An EV is their second car. They purchase a car at medium to high prices with high down payment and short-term loans. They value design and car brands and look for comprehensive products and services with financial advisers who can help make arrangements easy and hassle-free. Continued …

Thai village profits from hot-season tokay gecko trade exports to China

A Thai village is gaining lucrative income from capturing and processing tokay geckoes, generating hundreds of thousands of baht (US$2,860) per month during the hot season. In the northeast province of Nakhon Phanom, villagers from Ban Tal in Nah Wah district are seizing the opportunity to capture the amphibians that thrive in the warm weather.

Ban Tal Thai village, known as the mysterious village of unique seasonal occupations, has been relying on this profitable tokay gecko trade for over 30 years. Each hot season, from March to July, villagers capture geckoes and sell them to processing groups. The tokay geckoes are then dried and exported to China, where they are believed to be an ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine. Continued …

Bangkok Airways triumphs at World Airline Awards for 7th consecutive year

The World Airline Awards 2023 ceremony saw Bangkok Airways Public Co. retaining its resplendent position under the spotlight. The prestigious accolades of “The World’s Best Regional Airline” and “The Best Regional Airline in Asia” were pinned on this airline, marking its seventh year of triumph.

The presentation took place at the Paris Air Show, where Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, the airline’s president, and other management personnel, received the honors. Continued …

Thailand ranks second in global travel, Bangkok tops city list

Thailand tourism continues to thrive, as online travel platform Agoda recently revealed that the country holds the title of the second most popular destination for travelers worldwide, with Bangkok topping the list of favorite cities for global travelers.

Outperforming Thailand, Japan emerged as the leading destination for tourists during the same period. Early reopening of the country’s borders has undoubtedly contributed to Thailand’s tourism sector rebounding at a faster rate compared to other nations. Continued …

Thai tourism-linked businesses experience booming growth amid economic recovery

Amid escalating tourist arrivals and robust economic recovery, Thai tourism-associated enterprises have been reaping lucrative rewards, particularly in the fields of foreign exchange, travel agencies, tour guides, dining establishments, and the accommodation industry.

Such industries have experienced impressive growth within the initial five months of this year, as revealed by data garnered through the Business Development Department of the Commerce Ministry. Continued …

Chinese tourism deterred by tourist scams in Thailand, says ATTA

Fear of being conned by tourist scams poses a bigger concern to prospective Chinese tourists than Thailand’s political ambiguity, advises the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA). Given a sluggish economic recovery on the mainland, the Chinese tourism market could slightly be affected.

Calling for tougher safety measures, ATTA President, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn indicated that improving the country’s image and reassurances over touristic scams would encourage Chinese travelers. He also emphasized the necessity to uplift the quality of services provided in the tourism sector to boost Chinese tourism. Continued …

World Hindu Congress to be hosted by Bangkok this year, boosting Thai tourism

As a first, Bangkok is set to host the World Hindu Congress (WHC), set to take place from Nov. 24 to 26. Around 3,000 Hindus hailing from 60 different countries are anticipated to grace the event chaired by Susheel Kumar Saraff.

Themed “Jayasya Aayatnam Dharmah” or “Dharma,” the Abode of Victory,” the congress aims to celebrate the virtues of the religion and the triumphant strides of Hindus worldwide. Continued …

Titanic sub destroyed in ‘catastrophic implosion,’ all five aboard dead

A deep-sea submersible carrying five people on a voyage to the century-old wreck of the Titanic was found in pieces from a “catastrophic implosion” that killed everyone aboard, the U.S. Coast Guard said on Thursday, ending a multinational five-day search for the vessel. Continued …

Diabetes cases to double to 1.3 billion by 2050

The number of people suffering from diabetes worldwide will more than double to 1.3billion by 2050, driven by structural racism and gaping inequality between countries, new research predicted today. Continued …

US county sues oil companies for $51 billion over ‘Heat Dome’ disaster

A county in the northwestern state of Oregon on Thursday filed a lawsuit against major fossil fuel companies seeking more than $51 billion over the 2021 “Heat Dome,” one of the United States’ deadliest weather-related disasters. Continued …

€60 billion pledged to help Ukraine rebuild

Foreign donors have pledged €60 billion (US$66 billion) of new financial support for Ukraine, the United Kingdom said Thursday, as an international conference aimed at funding the war-ravaged country’s reconstruction closed. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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

chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-June 21

Today is the first day of summer and the longest day of the year.

  • Monsoon Valley Vineyard Fest Aug 11-13/
  • Pita Catches Covid For The Third Time, Coalition Talks Put Off/
  • El Niño is brewing – and that’s bad news for drought-prone Thailand/
  • Dengue situation could worsen this year, Disease Control Dept fears/
  • Taiwanese National Arrested in Nan Province for Overstaying 3,971 Days/
  • Another chonky feline survives Thai balcony plunge/
  • Economy: Failure to install new govt by August could affect GDP/Pizza Company rolling out another 40 branches to feed growing Thai appetite/Rice export surge: Thailand fast-tracks new varieties to boost global market share/
  • Tourism: TAT governor discusses his job, Thailand’s allure/Election uncertainty affects Thai tourism; domestic spending slows down/Thailand welcomes 11.8 million tourists this year, earns 494 baht in revenue/Chiang Mai sweats reputation after Chinese TikToker’s thong videos/Unleashing Thailand’s Soft Power Potential/Unfinished 29-million-baht tourist center in Satun languishes after six years/Thai Vietjet tempts with Zero THB fares/
  • Thailand Experience: 10 best Thailand beaches/
  • International: Sweltering Heat, Power Cuts In India Overwhelm Hospitals, Death Toll at 170/Titanic tourist sub still missing, as rescuers race the clock/Ocean warming depleting fish, reducing size: Malaysian study/Sudan war uproots 2.5 million, UN says, as bodies line Darfur streets/Iceland suspends whale hunt/Massive marlin disqualified from N.C. fishing tournament, costing crew $3.5M title/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Pita Catches Covid For The Third Time, Coalition Talks Put Off

Move Forward leader and prime minister-designate Pita Limjaroenrat has caught Covid-19 for the third time, and, as he is now self-isolating a meeting of the eight-partner coalition government scheduled for Thursday June 22 has been put off to next week.

Chaitawat Tulathon, Move Forward’s secretary-general, said while this key meeting has been postponed, a seminar to be attended by Move Forward’s new MPs scheduled for June 21-23 will continue with him standing in on Pita’s behalf. Continued …

El Niño is brewing – and that’s bad news for drought-prone Thailand

The arrival of El Niño this year is likely to drive global temperatures up to record levels in the next few years, according to scientists. That’s bad news for drought-prone Thailand.

El Niño is triggered by a rise in surface temperatures of the eastern Pacific Ocean, leading to a phase of planet warming. The natural phenomenon usually occurs every two to seven years and brings reduced rainfall in Southeast Asia and southern Australia. Continued …

Dengue situation could worsen this year, Disease Control Dept fears

The Disease Control Department is worried that the dengue fever situation in Thailand will worsen this year as the death toll has risen to 17 and the number of cases have soared to over 19,000 early this month, the government spokesman said on Tuesday.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said the department has reported a high number of dengue fever cases even before the arrival of the rainy season, when usually cases increase. Continued … 

Taiwanese National Arrested in Nan Province for Overstaying 3,971 Days

On June 19 at Chaisathan subdistrict, Mueang Nan District, Nan Province, the Nan Immigration Office, led by Police Col. Apisak Pisanno, director of Nan Immigration and team, apprehended an overstaying Taiwanese male. The individual had been residing in the Kingdom of Thailand without proper authorization for a duration exceeding 3,971 days.

The arrest was prompted by a report received by the Nan Immigration office from foreign service officers indicating that a Taiwanese national had traveled to Thailand and inquired about information regarding staying in the country. Continued …

Another chonky feline survives Thai balcony plunge

Thailand’s murderous balconies would have claimed another soul last night – if it didn’t have eight to spare.

Mochi the cat fell from the fifth floor of an unspecified residential building and landed on the front window of a pickup truck Monday evening. Fortunately, Mochi only suffered a broken chin in the fall, according to his human companion Bambie. Continued …

Failure to install new govt by August could affect GDP

Hailing the announcement by the Election Commission (EC) that it has certified the 500 members of parliament as good news for the private sector, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is now hoping to see the formation of a new coalition Thai government by August.

FTI Chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul stressed the importance of avoiding any delays that could impact investor confidence, leading to a slowdown in investment until a new government is formed. Continued …

Pizza Company rolling out another 40 branches to feed growing Thai appetite

The Pizza Company will serve Thailand’s hungry diners an extra slice this year by opening another 40 branches nationwide, its general manager said on Tuesday.

In its biggest rebrand since landing in Thailand 22 years ago, the franchise operated by Minor Food Group will also renovate existing outlets while targeting a 15% boost in membership. The ongoing overhaul comes in response to Thailand’s growing hunger for dine-in, take-out, and delivery pizza. Continued …

Rice export surge: Thailand fast-tracks new varieties to boost global market share

Thailand is making significant strides in boosting its export competitiveness by fast-tracking the development of new rice varieties to meet global market demand, with plans to introduce 30 new varieties in the coming year.

Following the “new rice variety contest for Commerce” event, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit discussed Thailand’s efforts to combat the lack of diversity in its product offerings within the global rice market. This led to the country’s increased focus on producing new rice varieties to compete with other market players. Continued …

TAT governor discusses his job, Thailand’s allure

As a long-standing trusted partner of the Tourism Authority of Thailand UK, The Luxury Editor’s, Ross Fraser, was invited to meet Yuthasak Supasorn, the governor of Tourism Authority of Thailand at the UK agent roadshow in Glasgow earlier this month. This is Tourism Authority of Thailand’s first UK agent roadshow in three years, which was hosted in both Manchester and Glasgow.

The significance of the roadshow was further amplified given that the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand is retiring this year and his attendance was to be his final business trip to the UK. Continued … 

Election uncertainty affects Thai tourism; domestic spending slows down

As the Election Commission validates candidates for MP-elect roles this week, tourism operators expressed concern about a slowdown in domestic spending. Travelers appear to be delaying their plans, while local businesses hesitate to reinvest until a government is established.

“There will still be a vacuum period until the government is formed,” stated Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Assn. Continued …

Thailand welcomes 11.8 million tourists this year, earns 494 baht in revenue

Since the start of the year, Thailand has welcomed close to 12 million foreign tourists, statistics released by the Tourism and Sports Ministry show.

This number is in line with expectations, the ministry’s permanent secretary’s office said, adding that the number of arrivals should cross the 12-million mark in the next week. Continued …

Chiang Mai sweats reputation after Chinese TikToker’s thong videos

A Chinese woman who stripped down to her thong aboard a Chiang Mai songthaew for TikTok has prompted the obligatory pearl-clutching in the Rose of the North.

In clips posted over several days, Chinese internet idol Huanxi59 struck provocative poses as she removed her clothes, sparking concerns she had tarnished the city’s reputation. In the first clip, watched more than a million times since it was posted Friday, she shows off a tiny thong as the songthaew drives around during sunset. Continued …

 

Unleashing Thailand’s Soft Power Potential

Immediately after Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban, a member of the Korean-pop girl group Blackpink, in an interview casually mentioned her favorite meatball vendors at her hometown train station in Thailand’s Buriram province, sales of the local delicacies spiked by a staggering 1,000 percent.

Lisa’s first solo music video album, in which she donned a dazzling traditional Thai outfit, garnered an astonishing 10 million views on YouTube within just two hours. Now that’s soft power! Lisa’s phenomenal popularity makes her one of Thailand’s prime soft power exports. Continued …

Unfinished 29-million-baht tourist center in Satun languishes after six years

A tourist service center worth 29 million baht in Khuan Don, Satun province, remains incomplete after six years, despite pledges to expedite construction. The contractor for the project is the younger brother of the local governor.

On Facebook, the watchdog page “Operation Dog Guarding House” exposed the construction of a tourist service center located in Khuan Don, Satun province. The project, with a budget of 29,798,000 baht (US$ 855,121), was approved in 2016. The contract was awarded to Giat Jaroenchai Karnchang Co., a construction company owned by the younger brother of Samrit Siangprasit, the governor of Satun. The center was initially scheduled to be completed by Dec. 22, 2017, but each year since the deadline passed, the project has faced significant delays and unfinished work. Continued …

Thai Vietjet tempts with Zero THB fares

Thai Vietjet has introduced its “Mid Year Mega Sale”, which presents an opportunity to tap zero THB fares (excluding taxes and fees) for travel on the airline’s international network.

The promotional fares are available for booking June 20-30, 2023, with the travel period running from July 1 to Dec. 31, 2023 (excludes public holidays, with terms and conditions) at www.vietjetair.com. Continued …

10 best Thailand beaches

Thailand has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, thanks to its sprawling capital, vibrant cities and over one thousand islands awaiting those who visit.

With the country on course to welcome over 30 million tourists this year, it’s clear that it has maintained its appeal as Southeast Asia’s top holiday destination for everyone from gap-year backpackers to honeymooning couples – plus travelers of all stripes who are keen to catch some guaranteed sunshine and average temperatures of 27C, even in winter. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Sweltering Heat, Power Cuts In India Overwhelm Hospitals, Death Toll at 170

A scorching heat wave in two of India’s most populous states has overwhelmed hospitals, filled a morgue to capacity and disrupted power, forcing staff to use books to cool patients, as officials investigate a death toll that has reached nearly 170. Continued …

Titanic tourist sub still missing, as rescuers race the clock

Rescuers were scouring thousands of square miles in the remote North Atlantic for a third day on Tuesday, racing against time to find a missing submersible after it disappeared while taking wealthy tourists to see the wreckage of the Titanic in deep waters off Canada’s coast. Continued …

Ocean warming depleting fish, reducing size: Malaysian study

Ocean warming is not only depleting fish stocks in the ocean, it is also resulting in smaller fish sizes and even displacement of certain species, a local study has revealed. Continued …

Sudan war uproots 2.5 million, UN says, as bodies line Darfur streets

Bodies have lined the streets in Sudan’s western Darfur region as the UN said Tuesday that more than two months of fighting have forced over 2.5 million people from their homes. Continued …

Iceland suspends whale hunt

Iceland’s government said on Tuesday it was suspending this year’s whale hunt until the end of August due to animal welfare concerns, likely bringing the controversial practice to a historic end. Continued …

Massive marlin disqualified from N.C. fishing tournament, costing crew $3.5M title

A 619-pound blue marlin was disqualified from a fishing tournament in North Carolina over the weekend because of apparent bite marks on its flesh, depriving anglers of more than $3.5 million in prize money. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-June 20

  • Blue & Yellow Book Exchange has reopened/
  • Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit/
  • All 500 MPs-Designate Finally Ratified/
  • Phra Prang Wat Arun tilting, to be surveyed every 3 months/
  • Economy: Foreign firms bring THB45 billion to Thailand, down 18% y-o-y/Six in 10 Asian consumers express preference for hybrid Evs/MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023: Discover Latest Lifestyle Products/
  • Tourism: TAT expecting 5 million visitors from China this year/
  • Thailand Experience: Buffalo soldiers battle for supremacy in Chonburi/
  • International: Tourist sub exploring Titanic wreckage missing/Blinken and Xi pledge to stabilize deteriorated US-China ties/Spending patterns of super rich show Asia is most expensive region/Himalayan glaciers melting 65 percent faster than previous decade/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Blue & Yellow Book Exchange has reopened

With over 10,000 books in various European languages, Hua Hin’s Blue & Yellow Book Exchange has reopened. The store is located at 114/23 Petchkasem Road, near the main traffic lights, opposite Krungsri Bank. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm.

Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit

Hua Hin’s renowned durian cultivation hub, Pa La U, is currently hosting the highly anticipated Pa La U durian and fruit festival.

This Ban Pa La-U Fruit and Good Products Expo, which is now in its 10th year, aims to celebrate the delectable fruit and showcases a wide range of local agricultural products. Continued …

All 500 MPs-Designate Finally Ratified

All 500 MPs-designate were ratified yesterday by the Election Commission, capping a five-week period of the nationwide electoral process.

Election Commission Secretary-general Sawaeng Boonmee announced ratification of all 400 MPs-designate running in constituency-based mode and all 100 MPs-designate vying in party-listed mode, after investigation had been earlier conducted into allegations of vote-buying and other breaches to the election law involving a total of 71 winning contestants vying in the former mode. Continued …

Phra Prang Wat Arun tilting, to be surveyed every 3 months

Thailand’s Fine Arts Department plans to survey Phra Prang Wat Arun, one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks on the Chao Phraya River, every three months after it was discovered through scanning that the principal prang, a tall tower-like spire, has started to lean.

The assistant abbot and secretary of the temple, also known as the Temple of Dawn, said yesterday that the slight reclining of the principal prang has caused four secondary prangs, located at its four corners, and four mondops, a square or cruciform building with a pointed roof, to lean slightly toward the main prang. Continued …

Foreign firms bring THB45 billion to Thailand, down 18% y-o-y

The number of foreign companies setting up operations in Thailand in the first five months of 2023 grew 16% year-on-year but investment dropped 18%, according to the Commerce Ministry on Tuesday.

Some 274 foreign investors were granted permission under the Foreign Business Act to set up in Thailand from January to May, said the ministry’s Department of Business Development (DBD) Director-general Thosapone Dansuputra. They invested a total of 45.39 billion baht and created 2,999 jobs. Continued …

Six in 10 Asian consumers express preference for hybrid EVs

Sixty percent of Asia Pacific consumers will opt for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in the near future, according to a study released on Monday.

The “Automotive Ecosystem Vision Study” found rising demand for HEVs, with 53% of global consumers revealing a stronger preference to purchase hybrids, rising to 60% in Asia. Continued …

MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023: Discover Latest Lifestyle Products

“MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023”, organized by Hong Kong-based Comasia Limited and co-organized by Worldex G.E.C Co., will be held from July 19 to 21 at Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC).

The three-day event will bring together 500 booths, showcasing the latest lifestyle products and designs from Asia, including gifts and premiums, houseware and kitchen, stationery, travel and sporting goods, lifestyle products, smart green home zone, outdoor decoration and furniture, etc. Continued …

TAT expecting 5 million visitors from China this year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is not concerned about China’s real estate slump as the agency remains confident about securing 5 million visitors from the country this year.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said most Chinese tourists are still keen to travel after saving money to travel abroad during the pandemic. Continued …

Buffalo soldiers battle for supremacy in Chonburi

Chonburi kicked off the rice-planting season on Sunday with a raucous tradition that dates back at least two centuries – buffalo racing. The races were organized to strengthen relationships between villagers, while also educating youngsters about the significance of this local tradition. Buffalos can hit speeds of up to 56 kilometres per hour as they thunder across muddy fields with jockeys either on their backs or dragged behind on flat sleighs. Most farms use mechanical equipment to plough fields these days, but the buffalo or “kwai” is still prized for its traditional place at the heart of Thai agriculture and rural life. (The Nation)
Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Tourist sub exploring Titanic wreckage missing

Search and rescue teams continue the relentless hunt across the vast North Atlantic Ocean to locate the Titan submarine, which mysteriously vanished on Sunday while en route to explore the wreckage of the legendary Titanic. Continued …

Blinken and Xi pledge to stabilize deteriorated US-China ties

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Monday with Chinese President Xi Jinping and said they agreed to “stabilize” badly deteriorated U.S.-China ties, but America’s top diplomat left Beijing with his biggest ask rebuffed: better communications between their militaries. Continued …

Spending patterns of super rich show Asia is most expensive region

Asia remains the most costly region in the world to live in, with Singapore taking the number one spot, followed by Shanghai and Hong Kong, according to Julius Baer’s latest Global Wealth and Lifestyle report. Continued …

Himalayan glaciers melting 65 percent faster than previous decade

Himalayan glaciers providing critical water to nearly two billion people are melting faster than ever before due to climate change, exposing communities to unpredictable and costly disasters, scientists warned today. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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, bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-June 19

  • Sunee Hill: Forging her own path/
  • Asia’s biggest Golf Tournament created a financial boost for Hua Hin/
  • Hua Hin Cricket Sixes returns to Dusit Thani Hua Hin in July/
  • Opinion: The Fear of Pita and Move Forward Explained/
  • Thai children losing out on height due to too little milk/
  • Funeral attendees win cows, receive rice gifts in unique 200,000 baht Thai almsgiving/
  • Keeping poor kids at school/
  • People flee high-rise buildings in Bangkok as Myanmar quake tremors felt/
  • Myanmar Junta Launches Airstrikes Near Thai Border As Clashes Escalate/
  • Coalition begins opening a path to deliver peace to the restive South/
  • 50,000 Signatures Sought to Keep Cannabis off the Narcotics List/
  • Economy: Thai baht continues to be volatile/Thai economy to enjoy positive growth, economists say/Further interest hikes likely/Household debt in Thailand soars to 86.9% of GDP, dampening consumer spending/
  • Tourism: Retirees skip Chiang Mai amid heavy smog/Chinese tourists top low season visitors list/
  • Thailand Experience: 7 best things to do in Hua Hin/A guide to visiting Koh Samui in 2023/Travelindex Unveils Winners of Bangkok’s Top 25 Restaurants/
  • International: Air Travel Demand Seen Soaring 28% To Near Pre-pandemic Level In 2023/China calls on US to meet it halfway amid frosty ties/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Sunee Hill: Forging her own path

By Felicitee Lawrie

When I first met Sunee Hill, a petite, feisty, white-haired Thai nonagenarian, she fixed me with her steely eyes and told me, point-blank, that I could write her story. This is the remarkable story of her life journey and her art, which has helped her explore her Chinese heritage.

Sunee was born and raised in Bangkok, the second child of nine to Chinese immigrant parents. Her father was a merchant who supplied materials to the construction industry. Because Thai authorities at the time had difficulty recording the details of her name and existence in Chinese language, she was not officially registered until quite some time later, so has a passport recording her birth as having happened in 1940, when it was indeed in 1932. What local lady wouldn’t mind shaving eight years off her age? Continued …

(Expat News is pleased to welcome a new series of articles about Hua Hin residents (above), written by freelance journalist Felicitee Lawrie, a Sydney, Australia, native. To read more about Felicitee, or to volunteer yourself or someone else for a possible profile by Felicitee, click HERE.)

Asia’s biggest Golf Tournament created a financial boost for Hua Hin

Over 480 competitors participated in Asia’s biggest golf tournament in Hua Hin from June 11-17.

While the golf media are currently focused on the PGA and PIF, one major golf tournament went ahead last week without any political issues. The Centara World Masters Golf Championship attracted over 480 amateurs to Hua Hin. Continued …

Hua Hin Cricket Sixes returns to Dusit Thani Hua Hin in July

The Hua Hin Cricket Sixes tournament will take place at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin from Sunday, July 2, to Friday, July 7.

Despite cricket not being particularly popular in Thailand, this event has become a sporting tradition for cricket enthusiasts and players alike and is now in its 26th year. Continued …

The Fear of Pita and Move Forward Explained

The Move Forward Party is new, and it has never been in power before. The unknown factor has driven some to fear what is to come when (and if) the party is in charge, particularly if you are the elites and the upper middle class for the following reasons.

Imagine yourself being the owner or in charge of one of Thailand’s largest corporations. Your company, or conglomerate, has established all the connections with the old guards in the world of politics, the bureaucracy, and the top echelon of Thai society. Continued …

Thai children losing out on height due to too little milk

Packed with essential nutrients, milk is an integral part of children’s diets and supports their growth. It contains calcium, which is great for the teeth and the bones, and has other health benefits, too, among them boosting the immune system, strengthening heart health, and improving the skin, according to experts.

Yet, despite these advantages, a study shows milk consumption is low among young Thais, raising concerns over their short stature. Continued …

Funeral attendees win cows, receive rice gifts in unique 200,000 baht Thai almsgiving

In Buriram province, a funeral for 92-year-old Wun Chongchaingam has drawn a large crowd due to the unusual almsgiving of 1.5 tons of rice and a raffle for five cows, worth a total of 200,000 baht (US$ 5,758), for needy villagers and attendees. The event took place at Wat Pa Non-Somboon temple.

Many villagers attended the funeral to pay respects and participate in merit-making for the deceased woman, as well as to try their luck at winning one of the five cows. In addition to the cow lottery, which was held in front of the guests, over 700 bags of rice, each containing approximately two kilograms, were prepared as gifts for attendees. Continued …

Keeping poor kids at school

Anirut Thongdech has a broad smile when he learns that he will have a chance to return to school this term after having dropped out for two years.

The 11-year-old boy, also known as Saming, was forced to leave school due to his parents’ inability to afford his education, a problem in Thai society that has worsened since the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

People flee high-rise buildings in Bangkok as Myanmar quake tremors felt

Many office workers in high-rise buildings in Bangkok and Nonthaburi province rushed into the streets after they felt their buildings shake this morning.

One netizen tweeted that he was on the 13th floor of a building in the Lat Phrao area when he saw ceiling lamps swaying and felt dizzy. Another said that she dared not re-enter their building, after she and her colleagues ran out. Continued …

Myanmar Junta Launches Airstrikes Near Thai Border As Clashes Escalate

Fighting between Myanmar junta forces and Karenni armed groups just across the border from Mae Hong Son intensified yesterday, with the former launching 13 airstrikes against the latter.

Thai security forces said that Myanmar junta’s 430th Rapid Mobility Battalion continued to clash heavily with Karenni Army (KA), Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) and People’s Defense Force (PDF), the loosely organized armed wing of the pro-democracy National Unity Government, around eight to 10 kilometers from Mae Ngao subdistrict, Khun Yuam district, Mae Hong Son province. Continued …

Coalition begins opening a path to deliver peace to the restive South

The Prachachart Party vowed on Sunday that it and its coalition partners will work to ensure that both Buddhist and Muslim residents of the South will be able to live in harmony.

The party’s stronghold is the Muslim-majority southern border provinces. It made the promise at a public forum with representatives of Buddhist residents of the southern border provinces. Continued …

50,000 Signatures Sought to Keep Cannabis off the Narcotics List

The Future Cannabis Network is marching across Thailand in a campaign to gather 50,000 signatures opposing the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic, confident that the new government will listen.

Amid current legislative changes surrounding the public Cannabis Act – which was initially proposed to the progressive party, before being stalled in committee – the group seeks to ensure that cannabis will not revert to its status as a controlled substance. Continued …

Thai baht continues to be volatile

After a week of fluctuations last week amid strong selling pressure on the U.S. dollar and bond yields, the exchange rate of the Thai baht to the U.S. dollar is expected to be volatile again this week, ranging between 34.40 and 34.90 Baht.

Key factors to watch include the statement from the U.S. Federal Reserve chairman to Congress, the direction of foreign capital flows, Thailand’s export data for May, and the political situation in the country. Continued …

Thai economy to enjoy positive growth, economists say

The Thai economy is still growing despite the risk of a global economic recession, economists said during the recent “Investment Forum: New Chapter, New Opportunity” seminar organized by Krungthep Turakij.

Somprawin Manprasert, head of Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Center, said that while the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) did not hike interest rates at its meeting last week, as it wanted to send a signal that such hikes need not be constant, it was anticipated that there would be two further increases from the current rate of 5.25% this year, mainly to mitigate the impacts of rising fuel costs. Continued …

Further interest hikes likely

Thailand is likely to see higher interest rates in the second half of 2023 following the U.S. Federal Reserve’s indication of two further interest rate hikes this year and a signal from the Bank of Thailand that it, too, might raise interest.

According to Roong Sanguanruang of Krungsri Bank, it was earlier expected that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) might pause interest rate hikes at 2%. Continued …

Household debt in Thailand soars to 86.9% of GDP, dampening consumer spending

Thailand’s mounting household debt is raising concerns, as it continues to hinder consumer spending, affecting various industries and impeding economic growth. The latest data from the National Economic and Social Development Council shows debt in the nation reached 15.1 trillion baht in the fourth quarter of 2022, a 3.5% increase year on year, and accounting for 86.9% of GDP.

Debt levels remain alarmingly high, as the major factors behind rising household debt are real estate purchases and personal loans. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Retirees skip Chiang Mai amid heavy smog

Chiang Mai tourism operators hope the new government will work to urgently solve the haze problem to lure back long-stay senior tourists, which represent a major loss for the province.

Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat visited the province last week to discuss environmental and tourism policies with representatives from the tourism sector. Continued …

Chinese tourists top low season visitors list

The majority of international tourists in Phuket at the start of the low season come from China, followed by Russia and Australia, according to the Phuket Tourist Assn. (PTA).

PTA Vice President Thanawat Oncharoen said yesterday most of the visitors from China were independent travelers, adding the number of tourist groups from the country remains low, though he did not reveal any details. Continued …

7 best things to do in Hua Hin

Packing the bags and jetting off to the delightful seaside resort of Hua Hin is becoming quite the hot ticket for locals and expats alike. With its prime position along the Gulf of Thailand, this lovely destination serves as a delightful getaway for those toiling away in bustling Bangkok.

Moreover, stunning landscapes and a plethora of captivating activities make it a top choice for everyone in search of some fun in the sun. But with so many things to do in Hua Hin, it can get a bit overwhelming. So to help you plan your travels, here are the best things to do in Hua Hin for an enjoyable holiday. Continued …

Tell us what you consider the best activities for visitors in Hua Hin at aim@hhexpatnews.com.

A guide to visiting Koh Samui in 2023

Koh Samui has long been a go-to hotspot for sunseekers and holidaymakers, and in 2023 it promises to be even more amazing. You might be wondering what all the fuss is about, but don’t you worry your sunscreen-lathered hands because our guide will show you everything Koh Samui has to offer, from the best time to visit to the best villa to stay to the yummiest food and dazzling night markets that you can’t miss.

You can fly into Koh Samui International Airport with Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, or Thai Airways routes. On the other hand, you can take a ferry to Koh Samui, which requires around 1-2 hours, depending on what pier you are getting on board. Continued …

Travelindex Unveils Winners of Bangkok’s Top 25 Restaurants

Travel-index, a content-driven ecosystem for the travel and tourism sector, has rolled out its annual list of 25 restaurants throughout Bangkok that it considers the top eateries, highlighting why the capital is such a popular gastronomic destination among gourmets and gourmands.

Travelindex has annually listed and awarded the best restaurants since 2018 based on its own patented “Restaurant Rating Index.” Continued …

Air Travel Demand Seen Soaring 28% To Near Pre-pandemic Level In 2023

Global air passenger traffic is expected to soar 28.3% to 4.35 billion people in 2023, returning to near the pre-pandemic level of 2019, with Asia-Pacific airlines benefiting from a sharp recovery in demand, according to estimates by an industry body. Continued …

China calls on US to meet it halfway amid frosty ties

China has called on the United States to meet it halfway, saying that bilateral ties are at the lowest point since the start of diplomatic relations, according to an official Chinese account of talks between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Sunday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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

hua hin, immigration, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-June 12

“Good judgment comes from experience, and a lotta that comes from bad judgment.”

  • 3,500 runners join Hua Hin Marathon Sunday/
  • Centara World Masters Golf underway this week/
  • Wild Animal Network Conference June 13-15/
  • Hua Hin Charity Gold Day June 17/
  • Thailand’s air pollution problem could worsen this year/
  • Nine Years After 2014 Coup, Charade Continues with Pita The New Target/
  • MFP survives first calls for dissolution/
  • Gang arrested for stealing sacred stone from Sam Roi Yot National park/
  • Less water in Thailand’s four main reservoirs this year/
  • Thailand’s soaring egg prices crack traders and consumers alike/
  • Dengue fever outbreak hits 3-year high; nearly 20,000 affected, 15 deaths/
  • Foreigners Rounded Up In Surat Thani Crackdown/
  • Thai Police Seize 200 Million Baht Worth of Heroin Destined for Australia/
  • Three Pit Bulls abandoned, starved, and turned cannibal in Nonthaburi/
  • In reality, Thailand not the LGBTQ+ paradise it pretends to be/
  • Economy: Thailand EV hub ambition recharged by soaring investment/Bitkub revenue dips 48% as crypto sinks/Thailand is a global capital of (illegal) sex work/Thanisorn “Phet” Boonsoong on Thailand’s Burgeoning Cannabis Industry/
  • Tourism: 25 million international tourists expected in next 7 months/Thailand boosts wellness tourism with 5-year traditional Thai medicine plan/Suvarnabhumi satellite terminal set for soft takeoff in September/Airfares may stay sky-high, say industry experts/
  • Thailand Experience : Four seaside surf festivals for June and July, including PKK/5 Offbeat Islands In Thailand You Must Explore/
  • International: Vietnam’s power crisis deepens as hydroelectric reservoirs near dangerous levels/Colombian Child plane crash survivors in ‘acceptable’ state of health/SEC Lawsuits Against Binance And Coinbase Raise Questions About Crypto’s Future/Djokovic celebrates 23rd Grand Slam/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Photo by Patrik Jacobs

3,500 runners join Hua Hin Marathon Sunday

Over 3,500 runners participated in this year’s 3rd Hua Hin Marathon yesterday. The event was organized by Preserve Hua Hin, and began at Wat Khao Krailart in Khao Takiab.

The 42-kilometer route ran through Hua Hin almost to the airport, before ending at Wat Khao Krailart.

Yoshiyuki Ono of Japan won the event with a time of 02:47:54, Thai athlete อนุชิต บุญยกิจ finished second, while Hua Hin’s Lewis Chalk finished third.

A special part of the run was held by Hua Hin-based runners made up of Thais and expats who guided visually impaired students from Phetchaburi’s Thanmik Wittaya school. A related fund-raising campaign raised over 30,000 THB for Thanmik Wittaya school (see photo above).

Centara World Masters Golf underway this week

Eighteen countries are represented in the more than 400 golfers entered in this week’s Centara World Masters Golf Championship.

Australian golfers make up the majority of the field, but there are also participants from Norfolk Island, Pakistan, New Caledonia, Qatar, Japan, Malaysia, Portugal, New Zealand, India, the UK, UAE, USA, Thailand, Germany, Papua New Guinea, and South Africa.

Thailand’s air pollution problem could worsen this year

Thailand’s polluted air has been a staggering issue for years now, especially in the north, where the air quality is reported to be detrimental to people’s health. But, as the rainy season is approaching, deluding our view that the air pollution has subsided, the opposite is true.

This year, Thailand is seeing worse haze than the previous. The air pollution is caused by various factors such as urban transportation, industrial pollution, forest fires and agricultural burning to clear the land for the next crop cycle–made worse by this year’s El Nino, which makes the air even more dry and susceptible to burning. Continued …

Nine Years After 2014 Coup, Charade Continues with Pita The New Target

Afarce, a charade, a travesty of justice, ludicrous, shambolic, and absurd – these are some of the words described the reactions of some Thais and foreigners upon learning that the Election Commission on Friday has considered to take up the case on whether Move Forward Party PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat has violated Article 151 of the election laws by holding ITV media shares.

Article 151 criminalized anyone who applied to run for MP knowingly that he or she lacks the qualifications – and holding media shares disqualifies you. Pita could face between one to 10 years in prison, slapped with a fine between 20,000 to 200,000 baht, and banned from voting for 20 years. Continued …

MFP survives first calls for dissolution

Four recent petitions along with a request to dissolve the Move Forward Party (MFP) have been dismissed as groundless and no reason for dissolution by the Election Commission (EC), according to a source.

The dismissal of the petitions to dissolve the MFP was made while the eight-party coalition led by the MFP goes about forming a new government. Continued …

Gang arrested for stealing sacred stone from Sam Roi Yot National park

Officials have announced the arrest of a gang that had been illegally cutting and stealing stone from Sam Roi Yot National Park.

The illegal activity took place near the Tham Kaew Cave, an area of cultural and ecological significance within the national park, officials said. Continued …

Less water in Thailand’s four main reservoirs this year

Water levels in the reservoirs behind Thailand’s four main dams have dropped substantially, raising concerns of insufficient supply for agriculture and consumption.

According to the Royal Irrigation Department, the combined water volume in the big and medium-sized reservoirs across the country is estimated at 16.13 billion cubic meters, compared to 18.616 billion cubic meters at this time last year. Continued …

Thailand’s soaring egg prices crack traders and consumers alike

The soaring cost of eggs in Thailand has left traders and consumers concerned, with some attributing the price hike to a shortage of supplies at farms and increased export demand.

Wanchai Rungmitcharatsaeng, a 65-year-old egg shop owner in Khon Kaen’s Mueang district, has been in the business for over 20 years and claims that egg prices have reached an all-time high. Continued …

Dengue fever outbreak hits 3-year high; nearly 20,000 affected, 15 deaths

A recent warning from Thailand’s government deputy spokesperson, Trisuree Trisaranakul, has alerted the public to the rapidly growing dengue fever outbreak.

With nearly 20,000 reported cases and 15 deaths in the past five months, the epidemic reached its highest level in three years. Citizens are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their children during the rainy season from June to August when the infection rate is expected to rise. Continued …

Foreigners Rounded Up In Surat Thani Crackdown

An ongoing crackdown by Immigration police in Surat Thani province has so far netted six foreigners for overstaying their visa and two others for illegal entry.

In the province-wide sweep taking place during June 7-21, another two persons were also arrested for not giving notification of the foreigners staying in their property within 24 hours of their arrival. Continued …

Thai Police Seize 200 Million Baht Worth of Heroin Destined for Australia

Anti-drug police confiscated 32 kilograms of heroin worth 200 million baht in Bangkok yesterday. The drugs were reportedly destined for Melbourne, Australia.

On June 10, at the Customs X-ray and Technology Center, Bangkok Port Customs Office, Phanthong Loykulnan, spokesman of the Customs Department, announced the results of the seizure of 32 kilograms of heroin, with a value exceeding 200 million baht. Continued …

Three Pit Bulls abandoned, starved, and turned cannibal in Nonthaburi

Four malnourished Pit Bulls were abandoned by their owner in a house in Bang Bua Thong, Nonthaburi. One of the dogs was killed by the other dogs eating it before concerned neighbors contacted local authorities for assistance.

Residents of a village in Bang Bua Thong were shocked to discover this alarming case after a TikTok user posted about the pit bulls. The abandoned dogs were left to starve in a house after the owner moved away without them. With no one to provide food or water, the pit bulls were left to feed on each other, resulting in one canine’s death. Continued …

In reality, Thailand not the LGBTQ+ paradise it pretends to be

June is when we celebrate Pride Month worldwide, and of course, many businesses change their profile photos to be rainbows for a month. Some brands would launch a new product serving in all rainbow colors.

We’d talk about LGBTQ+ for a bit and once June has passed, everything goes back to normal like Pride Month was just one of those marketing campaigns Lazada does once a month. Continued …

Thailand EV hub ambition recharged by soaring investment

Thailand’s ambition to become a regional hub for three industries – electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, upstream electronic manufacturing, and digital and creative – has received a significant boost from soaring investment, the Board of Investment (BOI) reports.

The BOI informed caretaker PM Prayut Chan-o-cha recently that total investment value surged to 185.7 billion baht from January to March, up 77% from the same period last year. Continued …

Bitkub revenue dips 48% as crypto sinks

Bitkub Online (BO), the owner of Bitkub Exchange, Thailand’s leading cryptocurrency platform, reported a 48% year-on-year decline in revenue last year as the crypto market plunged.

The total investments of its clients decreased 65% from a year earlier. Continued …

Thailand is a global capital of (illegal) sex work

In an apartment near Pattaya’s infamous Walking Street, Auchanaporn Pilasata studies her reflection in the mirror, applies another layer of plum-shade lipstick, and touches up her black eyeliner.

In the corner of her mirror are two photographs: one from when she looked like a scrawny 15-year-old boy, and another, post-transition, as the stunning woman she is today. Continued …

Thanisorn “Phet” Boonsoong on Thailand’s Burgeoning Cannabis Industry

With a BSBA finance and entrepreneurship qualification from Northeastern University in Boston under his belt, Thanisorn “Phet” Boonsoong has made an impressive name for himself in various pursuits, including the burgeoning field of cannabis and hemp production.

He is currently keeping busy as the CEO of Eastern Spectrum Group, Thailand’s pioneer cannabis plant manufacturer. It’s been quite a roller coaster year for everyone involved in the kingdom’s marijuana industry, which literally exploded after the plant was decriminalized exactly 12 months ago. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

25 million international tourists expected in next 7 months

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) disclosed that Thailand’s tourism revenue for the first five months of 2023 reached 959 billion baht, with international visitors accounting for nearly two-thirds of the total. The agency expects its tourism revenue to reach 2.38 trillion baht by the end of 2023, around 80% of the 3 trillion baht recorded in 2019.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn stated Thai tourists accounted for 360 billion baht from nearly 100 million domestic trips, while international tourists generated an income of 599 million baht from 10.56 million trips. He said that the country welcomed 1.97 million overseas tourists last month, the majority of whom came from Malaysia, followed by China, India, South Korea, and Laos. Continued …

Thailand boosts wellness tourism with 5-year traditional Thai medicine plan

The Public Health Ministry is implementing a five-year traditional Thai medicine development plan to boost wellness tourism, a government spokesman announced on Sunday.

Anucha Burapachaisri said outgoing Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha had acknowledged the five-year plan (2023-2027) for steering local traditional and alternative medicine to generate revenue for the country. Continued …

Suvarnabhumi satellite terminal set for soft takeoff in September

Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok is set to soft launch its Satellite Airport Terminal 1 (SAT-1) in September, with a full opening planned for early next year. Airports of Thailand (AoT) President Kerati Kijmanawat stated the new 216,000-square-meter facility, with a capacity for 28 aircraft parking bays, aims to address existing issues at the airport.

With the ability to accommodate 15 million passengers per year, SAT-1 will increase Suvarnabhumi’s annual passenger handling capacity to 60 million. The AoT board is expected to be informed of the soft opening plans later this month. Continued …

Airfares may stay sky-high, say industry experts

Despite the recent fall in oil prices, high airfares may stay in place for some time to come, say airline industry professionals and experts.

The gradual return of demand for travel last year following the lifting of Covid-related travel restrictions had already given the signal for higher fares. Continued …

Four seaside surf festivals for June and July, including PKK

Four seaside locations in Phangnga, Phuket, Songkhla and Prachuap Khiri Khan are the venues for four exciting festivals under the Amazing Ultimate Festival by the Tourism Authority of Thailand in June and July.

Huahin Beach Life 2023 will be held at Hua Don Beach in Khao Takiab, Prachuap Khiri Khan, from July 21 to 23. Hipsters will get a blissful beach experience with Sup Clinic sessions and fun workshops. Continued …

5 Offbeat Islands In Thailand You Must Explore

Away from the bustling cities of Bangkok, Thailand unpacks an array of destinations where you can unwind to the sound of gushing waves and swaying palm trees. While this description may conjure up images of the picturesque shores of Phi Phi and Koh Samui Islands, there are several offbeat ones you can escape to.

The best part is that it has everything that makes Thailand an enchanting destination, such as its delicious cuisine and warm hospitality. It couples it with the solitude reminiscent of more secluded vacation spots like the Maldives. While these lesser-known island spots in Thailand may not be as expensive as a holiday to the Maldives, they measure up just as well when you compare their beauty. Continued …

Vietnam’s power crisis deepens as hydroelectric reservoirs near dangerous levels

Two out of the three largest hydroelectric reservoirs in Vietnam, Son La and Lai Chau, are at dead water levels, with only Hoa Binh reservoir having enough water to generate electricity. Continued …

Colombian Child plane crash survivors in ‘acceptable’ state of health

Colombian President Gustavo Petro visited on Saturday four indigenous children who had been missing for more than five weeks in Colombia’s southern jungle after surviving a plane crash. Continued …

SEC Lawsuits Against Binance And Coinbase Raise Questions About Crypto’s Future

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filed lawsuits last week against the world’s biggest cryptocurrency exchanges, Binance and Coinbase, deepening tensions between the government and a volatile industry that has been marred by scandals and market meltdowns. Continued …

Djokovic celebrates 23rd Grand Slam

Novak Djokovic won a record 23rd Grand Slam singles title at the French Open on Sunday to stand alone at the summit of men’s tennis with a 7-6(1) 6-3 7-5 victory over fourth seed Casper Ruud in the final. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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.

UPDATED: 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

hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-June 8

  • Pran Buri Dam water levels reach critical point as drought crisis deepens/
  • Drought and irrigation issues pose challenges for PKK mango farmers/
  • Alleged gunman caught after shooting Russian in broad daylight in Phuket/
  • Urgent need for EV charging stations stressed/
  • Visa changes block Thai workers from Finnish berry fields/
  • Thai Owner Shocked: Indian Businessman Illegally Occupied His Buildings In Pattaya/
  • Economy: Thai economy faces 4 risks in 2nd half: SCB Securities/New government delay seen as threat to growth/Thai economy could face 36 billion baht hit from extreme weather/Japanese data centers expand into Thailand/Exports of Thai air-con parts to US surge 126% in 1st quarter/
  • Tourism: Tourism expected to keep Thai economy growing despite global headwind/Why 80% of travelers research food and drinks before a trip/Thai tourism campaign targets secondary cities for foreign visitors boost/15 Polish tourists evacuated before their bus was engulfed in flames/New road linking Phuket, Phangnga now complete/Canada loosens visa rule for Thais/
  • Thailand Experience: The 5 best activities in Central Thailand/Kanchanaburi: A town full of history/Nong Khai: Thailand’s link to Laos/
  • International: Work begins on 2nd Chinese-invested expressway in Cambodia/IATA sees gradual recovery in Asia-Pacific aviation/Ukraine agriculture crisis looms after dam collapse/World’s largest crocodile celebrates 120th birthday in Australia/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Pran Buri Dam water levels reach critical point as drought crisis deepens

Prachuap Khiri Khan is facing an alarming drought situation, as water levels at the Pran Buri Dam have reached critically low levels. Officials have sounded the alarm over the severity of the crisis, prompting urgent measures to address the water shortage affecting the region.

Pran Buri Dam, a vital water source for the area, including for Hua Hin, currently holds only 14%-15% of its total capacity, officials have said. Continued …

Drought and irrigation issues pose challenges for PKK mango farmers

Mango farmers in Prachuap Khiri Khan province are facing significant challenges, as severe drought conditions and inadequate irrigation systems take a toll on their crops.

Throughout the province in Pran Buri, Sam Roi Yot, Kui Buri, and Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan, some 50,000 rai of land is used to grow mangoes for export. Continued …

Alleged gunman caught after shooting Russian in broad daylight in Phuket

Phuket airport authorities arrested a Kazakhstani gunman who alledgedly shot a 44-year-old Russian national in broad daylight. Artur Legey, the 49-year-old suspect, was apprehended at the Phuket International Airport while preparing to flee. The victim was left critically injured in the incident that occurred outside a cafe in Thalang district, Phuket, yesterday.

The Russian man, Dmitri Aleynikov, suffered severe injuries in the Phuket shooting that occurred yesterday. The incident took place in broad daylight, and the perpetrator quickly fled the scene on an unregistered Yamaha motorcycle. Continued …

Urgent need for EV charging stations stressed

With purchases of electrical vehicles on the rise, the insufficient number of EV charging stations across the country is becoming increasingly challenging for drivers.

In an attempt to remedy the situation, the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) has announced that it is planning to collaborate with all car manufacturers to integrate and expand the charging station network. Continued …

Visa changes block Thai workers from Finnish berry fields

Not a single Thai worker has been confirmed to come to Finland for the upcoming picking season, following changes in visa procedures.

“We felt that we have to re-examine our procedures. The police investigations came to light last summer, (referring to the criminal prosecutions and human trafficking suspicions that happened in 2022) and this is the first picking season since that,” Katja Luopajärvi, the deputy head of the visa unit at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Continued …

Thai Owner Shocked: Indian Businessman Illegally Occupied His Buildings In Pattaya

The Thai owner of two adjoining commercial buildings in Pattaya, which he only came to inspect after five years yesterday, was shocked at discovering that an Indian businessman had trespassed and illegally turned the ground floor into a dance club, with the the rooms above rented out.

Supanat Chinnawat, 30, filed a complaint at Pattaya City police station that his two four-story adjoining commercial buildings on Pattaya Sai 3 road on the way to Bali Hai pier had been illegally occupied. Continued …

Thai economy faces 4 risks in 2nd half: SCB Securities

A slowing global economy, electoral uncertainty, rising interest rates, and drought are the four key risks facing the Thai economy in the second half of this year, a senior analyst at SCB Securities said.

Piyasak Manasan, senior vice president of the company’s investment research department, said official figures for the first quarter of this year showed gross domestic product (GDP) expanded faster than expected but not enough to raise full-year forecasts of 3.2% GDP growth. Continued …

New government delay seen as threat to growth

The private sector is concerned that Thai GDP growth could decline to 1%-2% if the formation of the new government is delayed from the timeline by six months or more.

Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, said the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) is monitoring politics and awaiting a new government. Continued …

Thai economy could face 36 billion baht hit from extreme weather

Extreme weather conditions, including drought and floods, could potentially inflict a 36-billion-baht blow to Thailand‘s economy this year, warns the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB). Drought, in particular, is a significant concern, as it may severely affect the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, further hindering the country’s already sluggish exports.

“Manufacturers are worried about drought because it can reduce production capacity and affect exports,” said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), which is part of the JSCCIB. Continued …

Japanese data centers expand into Thailand

Two Japan-based data center providers have invested US164 million (5.5 billion baht) in Thailand to build and expand data centers, cashing in on the trend of digital transformation and the exponential growth of cloud computing.

Telehouse recently opened its first data center in Thailand with an investment of $74 million, while NTT invested 3 billion baht through NTT Global Data Centers Corp. to develop its newest and largest data center in Thailand. The latter’s new Bangkok 3 Data Center (BKK3) is slated to start operations in the second half of 2024. Continued …

Exports of Thai air-con parts to US surge 126% in 1st quarter

Exports of air-conditioner components to the United States surged 126% in the first quarter of this year, compared to the same period last year, the chief of the Foreign Trade Department said on Wednesday.

Ronnarong Phoolpipat, director-general of the department, said Thailand exported US$146.96 million worth of components for air conditioners to the U.S. in the first three months of this year. Continued …

Tourism expected to keep Thai economy growing despite global headwind

The Thai economy is likely to continue to recover despite a slowing global economy due to the strong recovery in the tourism industry, Thailand’s most powerful business lobby group said on Wednesday.

Up to 30 million foreign tourists will visit Thailand this year and the government should launch measures to attract more, including lessening water shortages in areas tourists visit, said the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB). Continued …

Why 80% of travelers research food and drinks before a trip

In recent years, Instagram has been thought to be a significant catalyst for which destinations people gravitate toward when planning on traveling, but a new catalyst is emerging.

According to new international data from Global Food Tourism, 80% of travelers will research food and drinks in a location before heading off on their travels. Continued …

Thai tourism campaign targets secondary cities for foreign visitors boost

Thailand‘s Tourism Authority (TAT) has revealed a significant increase in international travelers visiting the country in the first five months of 2023, with a total of 10,568,485 visitors. In collaboration with Central Pattana Plc., TAT aims to promote local and alternative tourism destinations, targeting a shift in the proportion of travelers from major to secondary cities.

During the first five months of 2023, international tourist visits reached 10,568,485, with 1,972,033 visits in May alone. The top five countries in visitor numbers were Malaysia, China, India, South Korea, and Lao PDR. To stimulate travel to secondary cities, TAT has partnered with Central Pattana to launch the “Go Local, Love Local” campaign. The first phase focuses on four provinces: Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ayutthaya, Ubon Ratchathani, and Chanthaburi. Continued …

15 Polish tourists evacuated before their bus was engulfed in flames

The quick thinking of a 48-year-old bus driver may have saved the lives of 15 Polish tourists on Wednesday morning on one of the busy Bangkok expressways that circle the capital city when he quickly parked his bus and evacuated his passengers after noticing smoke coming from the underside of the bus near the luggage compartment.

Kanchit Kaewmanee had earlier picked up the tourists from a hotel in the Makkasan area of the city and was traveling outbound on Expressway Number 2 near the Kamphaeng Phet Road when the incident occurred. Continued …

New road linking Phuket, Phangnga now complete

The Department of Rural Roads (DRR) announced the completion of the Na Klang-Ao Jik road linking Phuket and Phangnga, which will support local tourism and cross-provincial transport. Continued …

Canada loosens visa rule for Thais

Thailand is among 13 countries newly added to Canada’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) program by its Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser, the North American country announced yesterday.

Travelers who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when traveling to Canada by air, according to the website canada.ca. Continued …

The 5 best activities in Central Thailand

Calling all adventurous souls, culture vultures, and travel lovers! Are you ready for the new chapters through Thailand’s central region? Picture this: vibrant cities pulsating with life, ancient temples whispering tales from the past, and natural landscapes that will take your breath away.

And if you wonder what’s the best thing to do in Central Thailand? Well, it’s a tough one. After all, there are so many things you can do. And, with the help of our friends at TAT and Klook, we’ve compiled the best activities below. Continued …

Kanchanaburi: A town full of history

It felt as if my eyes and skin were on fire while walking down the new 150m-long skywalk in the sweltering midday sun. It was due to my late arrival in Kanchanaburi, but I decided to stick to my original plan.

At least I was rewarded with stunning views of the confluence of the Khwae Yai, Khwae Noi and Mae Klong rivers, set against a backdrop of lush hilly environment and old city walls. Continued …

Nong Khai: Thailand’s link to Laos

Nong Khai is a province located in northeastern Thailand, also known as Isaan. It is situated on the banks of the Mekong River, which forms the natural border between Thailand and Laos. Here are some key details about Nong Khai:

Geography and Location: Nong Khai Province covers an area of approximately 7,325 square kilometers. It is bordered by the provinces of Bueng Kan to the east, Sakon Nakhon to the south, and Loei to the west. Across the Mekong River lies Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Work begins on 2nd Chinese-invested expressway in Cambodia

Cambodia on Wednesday broke ground on the second Chinese-invested expressway connecting the capital Phnom Penh with Bavet City of Svay Rieng province on the border with Vietnam. Continued …

IATA sees gradual recovery in Asia-Pacific aviation

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects Asia-Pacific aviation to gradually recover throughout this year, despite some hiccups in the supply chain and a few Covid travel restrictions still being in place. Continued …

Ukraine agriculture crisis looms after dam collapse

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has not only resulted in devastating humanitarian consequences but also poses a severe threat to the country’s agriculture. Ukrainian officials have warned that the southern region’s fertile lands could transform into deserts as early as next year due to the destruction of vital irrigation systems that rely on the Kakhovka reservoir. Continued …

World’s largest crocodile celebrates 120th birthday in Australia

Australia‘s Marineland Crocodile Park celebrated the presumed 120th birthday of Cassius, the world’s largest captive crocodile. Cassius, measuring 5.48 meters in length, has been a resident of the park on Green Island in Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef since 1984, after being captured in the Northern Territory’s Finniss River for allegedly causing numerous cattle deaths. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

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.

UPDATED: 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

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