Category Archives: immigration

baht, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Sept 19

Today’s news: Hua Hin water supply disruption/’ Reminiscing the Past’ event/‘Blessing of the Fleet’ ceremony/New tax regulations/Tax plan risks falling flat/Further electricity tariff cut/Elephants ‘yes’, pandas ‘no’/Maternity benefits for men/Thai baht fluctuation/Digital wallet scheme in 10 days/Land and building tax review/Healthcare transformed by AI/Bioplastics makers call for state measures/Dam draws fire/Thai farmer’s organic vegetable transformation/19 million foreign tourists/Thailand eyes India/20-Min Wait or Less for Tourists/Samui Continues Recovery/Chiang Mai tourism slower than expected/6 World Heritage Sites/History Of Thai Food/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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Hua Hin water supply disruption nearing resolution as officials identify causes

If you live in Hua Hin and have experienced problems with the water supply in recent days, you’re not alone.

Large parts of the town have seen little or no water, with some having to rely on water trucks to refill tanks at their property in order to have a supply of tap water. Continued …

Hua Hin ‘ Reminiscing the Past’ event Sept 22-Oct 1

Hua Hin will host the annual “Hua Hin, Reminiscing the Past” event Sept. 22-Oct. 1 to promote tourism and spotlight the cultural traditions of the region. The event wkill be held at the event grounds behind the BluPort Shopping Mall.

This year’s event will celebrate Hua Hin’s rich history, traditions, and the unique way of life enjoyed by locals.

Hua Hin’s ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ ceremony set for Sept 24

Marking a century-old tradition, Hua Hin’s “Blessing of the Fleet” merit-making ceremony is slated to return on Sept. 24 at the Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine.

The event, rooted in the town’s maritime culture, offers both local fishermen and visiting enthusiasts a chance to partake in an event that not only celebrates the town’s fishing heritage but also invokes blessings for the forthcoming fishing season. Continued …

New tax regulations raise questions and concerns

Thailand’s Revenue Department has recently thrown a curve ball at tax residents with its new tax guidelines on foreign income. According to legal experts, the policy appears to have three specific targets: residents trading in foreign stock markets through foreign brokerages, cryptocurrency traders, and Thais who have been exploiting a loophole that allowed them to bring foreign earnings into the country tax-free after keeping it in an offshore account for more than a calendar year.

However, the guidelines raise significant questions about the efficacy of their enforcement. Ensuring transparency on income accrued offshore poses a daunting task for the government. Continued …

Plan to tax incoming funds risks falling flat due to lack of clarity

The Thai Revenue Department’s recent announcement to impose taxes on funds entering the country from abroad sent ripples through the elite society and financial sectors over the weekend.

In a nation where such a taxation scheme is unprecedented, the buzz was loud enough to compel newly appointed Prime Minister Srettha Thavasin to issue a statement, stressing the initiative’s aim to narrow the wealth gap. However, the government’s opaque approach and questionable execution raise several red flags. Continued …

Further electricity tariff cut to 3.99 baht per unit planned

The Thai government’s Energy Ministry has laid out plans to further reduce electricity tariffs by an additional 11 satang per unit, announced government spokesperson Chai Watcharong yesterday.

Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga disclosed the plan, stating that the current rate of 4.10 baht per unit is set to drop to 3.99 baht. Continued …

Elephants ‘yes’, pandas ‘no’

Kanchana Silpa-archa, a well-known Thai political figure, has voiced her opposition to the idea of importing new pandas from China, citing high rental costs and a declining interest in pandas. Instead, she suggests, the focus should be on the increasingly popular Thai elephants.

Kanchana, adviser and head of the Thai Nation Development Party, posted a message regarding the circulating news of Thailand requesting new pandas from China to replace the late Chuang Chuang. Continued …

Thai men to enjoy maternity benefits on behalf of their wives

Thai men who have made contributions to the Social Security Fund can now claim refunds for medical checkups, pre-natal care and child-delivery expenses from the Office of Social Security on behalf of their partner, even if the woman has not made contributions to the fund.

Moreover, the men can also claim an 800-baht-per-month subsidy from the office for their new-born babies until they are six years old. Continued …

Bank anticipates Thai baht fluctuation amid global market developments

The global markets team at Krungsri Bank predicts a movement in the Thai baht this week within the range of 35.40 to 36.00 baht per U.S. dollar. Last week, the baht closed weaker at 35.79 baht per U.S. dollar after trading in the range of 35.43 to 35.82 baht per U.S. Dollar.

The dollar strengthened against the euro but held steady against the yen last week. The U.S. General consumer price index (CPI) increased by 3.7% year-on-year in August, up from a 3.2% increase in July. Furthermore, the core CPI, excluding food and energy prices, rose by 4.3% in August, slowing from 4.7% in July. Continued …

Govt to finalize implementation of digital wallet scheme in 10 days

The details of the government’s 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme would be proposed for Cabinet approval within the next 10 days, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said yesterday.

The government is currently discussing with the Finance Ministry, the Budget Bureau, the National Economic and Social Development Council and various other state agencies. They would discuss adjustment proposals, especially regarding the terms and conditions for spending the digital wallet money within a 4-kilometer radius to make it more suitable, Julapun said. Continued …

PM orders review of land and building tax

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered the Finance Ministry to review the new land and building tax, as well as inheritance tax, in an effort to reduce income disparity.

After the cabinet on Monday appointed a new director-general of the Revenue Department, Srettha, who is also finance minister, ordered the review. In the case of inheritance tax, only around 200 million baht is collected each year. Continued …

Thailand’s healthcare sector transformed by AI innovations

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming Thailand’s healthcare sector, with innovative solutions designed to enhance patient care, ease the workload of medical professionals, and address the specialist shortage.

In a collaboration aimed at advancing medical treatment, public hospitals, state agencies, and local startups are joining hands to develop AI-based healthcare products and services. Continued …

Bioplastics makers call for state measures

Thailand’s growing bioplastic manufacturing requires innovative measures from the Industry Ministry to boost investment from foreign companies, part of efforts to make the country a bio hub of ASEAN within 2027.

The Thai Bioplastics Industry Assn. (TBIA) wants the new government to launch measures that can increase demand for bioplastics in Thailand, said TBIA President Viboon Pungprasert. Continued …

Mekong’s new Pak Beng Dam draws fire from Thai residents

A group representing residents of eight provinces in the Mekong Basin has called on Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to reconsider plans to buy power generated at the Pak Beng Dam.

In a letter addressed to both Srettha and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, the group expressed concerns about the potential impact backwater could have on the environment and local livelihoods. Continued …

Thai farmer’s organic vegetable transformation yields green profits

A 58-year-old entrepreneurial farmer in Trang has transformed his four-acre rubber plantation into a thriving organic vegetable garden. Previously, he was earning only 100 baht for 3 kilograms of rubber. Now, his organic vegetable farming generates an income of over 50,000 baht per month.

The farmer, San Chanchia, decided to bring down his four-acre rubber plantation when the price of rubber dropped to 100 baht per 3 kilograms. He then switched to growing a variety of vegetables and fruits. Continued …

19 million foreign tourists visit Thailand since January

Thailand recorded 19 million foreign tourists in the January to Sept. 17 period this year, the Tourism and Sports Ministry said today.

Foreign arrivals generated 795 billion baht (US$22.26 billion) in revenue, it said. Continued …

Thailand eyes India to boost tourism recovery

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is eyeing holidaymakers from India to boost tourism days after the nation unveiled visa waivers for travelers from China and Kazakhstan starting next week.

Srettha said he plans to make a trip to India this year to meet his counterpart Narendra Modi and discuss increasing flight frequency between the two countries, including more services by flag carrier Thai Airways International. Continued …

Suvarnabhumi Immigration Ensures 20-Min Wait or Less for Tourists

In less than 20 minutes! The Thai Immigration Department is gearing up to welcome an influx of Chinese and Kazakh tourists following the government’s announcement of visa-free travel.

Yesterday, in a meeting at Suvarnabhumi Airport, officers discussed readiness to handle an anticipated influx of foreign tourists, especially Chinese citizens. Continued …

Samui Continues To Ride the Wave of Recovery

Tourism on Samui is recovering, despite the recent change in policy on visa exemption for Chinese visitors, because the main market remains German, French, and British travelers.

Ratchaporn Poolsawat, the head of the Samui Tourism Promotion Assn., revealed that tourism on the island during the peak season from July to August has rebounded to pre-COVID-19 levels, comparable to 2019. Continued …

Chiang Mai tourism recovery slower than expected

Despite the gradual revival of tourism, a significant number of rooms in Chiang Mai‘s hotels and the international airport remain unoccupied, with the return of travelers seemingly slower than anticipated post-pandemic. Adding to the concerns is the anticipated PM2.5 dust during the peak season.

Over the weekend, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin undertook an inspection of the airport in light of the recent lifting of visa requirements for Chinese tourists, a policy in effect from Sept. 25 to Feb. 29. This move is hoped to boost the number of visitors to the region. Continued …

Exploring Thailand’s 6 World Heritage Sites

Thailand is awaiting World Heritage Site recognition for its Ancient Town of Si Thep as the Unesco World Heritage Committee convenes in Saudi Arabia. Here is an overview of the six existing World Heritage sites in Thailand.

As of 2023, Thailand boasts six World Heritage sites on the prestigious list. Among them, three are of cultural significance, while three are designated for their natural wonders. Continued …

Exploring The History Of Thai Food Through The Flavors Of Thailand

Thai cuisine is a testament to the rich history and cultural diversity of Thailand. It has been shaped by centuries of interactions with neighboring cultures, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and culinary techniques.

Thai food serves as a cultural bridge, bringing people together and reflecting the deep-rooted traditions and beliefs of the Thai people. Thai cuisine is a vibrant tapestry woven from centuries of history, cultural influences, and ancient culinary beliefs. Continued …

Residents of Vientiane flock to newly opened 7-Eleven

The first branch of the popular convenience store franchise 7-Eleven has become a big hit in Laos’ capital, prompting operator CP All to proceed with plans to open a second branch next month. Continued … 

Vietnam proposes $1,000 incentive to boost electric vehicle use

The Vietnamese Ministry of Transport (MoT) has sought feedback on a proposed policy to boost the electric vehicle (EV) industry by offering a US$1,000 subsidy to electric car buyers, a move that could accelerate the shift toward green, eco-friendly energy in the country. Continued …

Singapore aims for passport-free departures from airport

Some passengers will soon be able to depart from Singapore’s Changi Airport without a passport, as part of changes to the city-state’s immigration law that allows for end-to-end biometric clearance. Continued … 

New study identifies United States as ‘Planet-Wrecker-in-Chief’

A new report released Tuesday identifies the United States as “planet-wrecker-in-chief,” pointing to the nation’s plans for a massive expansion of oil and gas production over the next two and a half decades even as it postures as a climate leader on the world stage. Continued …

Cow Waste To Be Transformed Into Rocket Fuel For Space Startup

A Japanese chemical manufacturing company has been working on creating liquid biomethane from cow waste to be used as rocket fuel, potentially providing a solution for dairy farmers grappling with disposal challenges. Continued …

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.

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

Saturday’s news-Sept 16

Today’s news: Reader Feedback/Tourist survey for Hua Hin flights/Online platform for foreign tenant registration/Sex, drugs and bid-riggingChonburi ‘Green Sea’/Crop burning shortening life expectancy/Teachers Slams Free Tablet SchemeThai flag third most commonly misidentified/Minimum wage hike/New challenges emerge/Thailand’s airlines resist price war/Scams on Chinese Tourists Return/Myanmar: US dollars and insurance needed/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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“Hi. Been reading Hua Hin Expat News for over a year. Very enjoyable to read and following your topics. I live in Los Angeles County, California, and there are over 250,000-plus expat Thai’s living here. There was a time when a Thai Airline used to fly direct to Los Angeles. It was wonderful, just a little over 13 hours flight time. Does anyone know when Thailand might have an airline to fly direct to Los Angeles?” – Bob

Are you a tourist? Then have your say about Hua Hin flights

Prachuap Khiri Khan officials are asking tourists, Thai and foreign, to participate in a survey regarding potential new flight routes to and from Hua Hin Airport. The goal of the anonymous survey, according to the officials, is to tailor transportation development, particularly in aviation, to meet the exact needs and preferences of tourists.

Expat News has viewed the survey and it is meant only for tourists, not local Thai and foreign residents. It asks only about travel preferences within Thailand. International flights to and from Hua Hin are not mentioned. The survey

Thailand launches online platform for foreign tenant registration

Immigration has called for property owners and managers across Thailand to register for the new online notification platform for foreign tenants. This system, which became operational yesterday, replaces the previous one.

This digital registration demands the submission of pertinent documents, but immigration officials have guaranteed that the approval process will be automatic. They further stipulated that property owners previously registered on the old system would need to re-register on the new platform. Continued …

Sex, drugs and bid-rigging: How ‘influential figures’ thrive in Thailand

The murder of a highway police officer at the residence of Praween Chankhlai, also known as “Kamnan Nok” – an influential figure in Nakhon Pathom province – has raised questions about how ‘influential figures’ make fortunes in Thailand – and get away with it.

The tragic event that triggered a national discussion occurred at a birthday party on the night of Sept. 6 when highway police officer Major Siwakorn Saibua was shot dead. Continued …

Chonburi ‘Green Sea’ Raises Concerns, Lasting Until End of October

The marine environment in Chonburi is in serious trouble, according Dr. Thon, an acclaimed specialist in marine and environmental matters, who is sounding the alarm about the continuous occurrence of the “green sea” phenomenon.

This crisis has now transformed the region into an area where marine organisms are perishing in significant numbers, rendering it off-limits. This critical condition is projected to endure until the conclusion of October. Continued …

Crop burning shortening average life expectancy

Air pollution, notably PM2.5 fine dust, caused by the burning of plantations, especially sugarcane, affects around 44 million people in Thailand every year, the Industry Ministry reported on Thursday.

PM2.5 refers to dust particles 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter, long-term exposure to which is linked with chronic diseases, including lung and heart problems. Continued …

Teachers Slam Free Tablet Scheme, Want More Teachers Hired

Just as Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob moved to relaunch the Yingluck Shinawatra government’s project of distributing free tablet computers to all students and teachers nationwide, a large number of teachers pointed out that this scheme was not that effective when carried out almost a decade ago and it would be better to use the budget to hire more teaching staff.

Permpoon, from Bhumjaithai Party, announced the revival of this project when outlining his “Study Well, Be Happy” policy to officials at this ministry with this being divided into two parts – education for excellence and education for stability of life. Continued …

Thai flag ranks as the third most commonly misidentified flag

With hundreds of countries across the globe, it’s not surprising that there is some overlap in color scheme and design. But how well can travelers identify the different flags?

Flags are an important symbol of national identity, and they can be a source of pride for many people. But how well do we know their flags? To find out, tailor-made holidaymaker Travelbag asked 2,000 adults to name which country a selection of flags from around the world represented. Continued …

Labor minister promises minimum wage hike as New Year’s gift

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn promised on Friday that the minimum daily wage would be raised by November as a “New Year’s present” for Thai workers.

“The minimum daily wage would definitely be hiked within this year. The proposal would be submitted for the Cabinet’s consideration on September 25 so that the new wages could be announced within November, in time to become a New Year’s present for Thais,” Phiphat said. Continued …

New challenges emerge as Thailand’s population continues to age

Thailand’s elderly population is projected to reach 20.4 million people in 2040, accounting for 31.3% of the total population, according to the director of the Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office, Poonpong Nainapakorn.

The transition to an aging society began in 2021 when there were 13.8 million elderly Thais, representing 20% of the total population, Poonpong said. Continued …

Thailand’s airlines resist price war, as operational costs rise

In light of escalating operational costs, Thailand’s airlines are unlikely to trigger a new price war, while the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) intends to retain the existing ceiling for ticket prices. This information was shared by Suttipong Kongpool, the CAAT director, during a seminar co-hosted by the Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT) and CAAT this week.

Suttipong indicated that with jet fuel prices, a significant component accounting for 30%-40% of operational costs, not expected to rise beyond US$120 per barrel in the near term, the regulated ceiling price would remain unchanged for at least three years. Continued …

As Chinese Tourists Return to Thailand, So Do Scams Targeting Them

As Chinese tourists return to Thailand after the pandemic curtailed travel, so are the scams that Thai authorities worry will taint the country’s reputation even if most of the victims and perpetrators appear to be Chinese.

Deputy Police Chief Surachate Hakparn said at a news conference last month that 18 Chinese were charged with fraud for allegedly selling overpriced, supposedly holy, amulets to Chinese tourists visiting Khao Chi Chan temple in Chonburi province. Continued …

Myanmar: US dollars and insurance needed for entry

According to the Royal Thai Embassy in Yangon, Myanmar has announced that it will randomly inspect foreign tourists on arrival. U.S. dollars in cash and medical insurance are required for entry.

The embassy reported that the Burmese authorities urged foreigners entering the country for less than 14 days to prepare for a random inspection upon arrival. Continued …

US auto workers target Detroit Three plants for historic strike

About 13,000 U.S. auto workers stopped making vehicles and went on strike Friday after their leaders couldn’t bridge a giant gap between union demands in contract talks and what Detroit’s three automakers are willing to pay. Continued … 

Aid groups sound alarm in Libya as hopes dwindle for survivors

Aid groups have warned of growing risk posed by the spread of disease that could compound the humanitarian crisis in Libya, as hopes of finding more survivors fade days after deadly flooding. Continued …

Blackpink’s Lisa rejects $37.6-million contract

The YG Entertainment stock in South Korea dropped by nearly 9% yesterday after reports in South Korean media stated that Lisa Blackpink of the K-Pop girl group BLACKPINK has rejected a contract renewal offer from the agency. Continued …

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.

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
hua hin, immigration, marijuana, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-Sept 15

2 Comments

Today’s news: Residents bemoan burning trash/Heavy rain forecast/Tablets for students/Gun owners given 30 days/iPhone 15 lineup/PM disagrees with use of cannabis/Minister promotes cannabis/Surging rice prices/Digital wallet for specific groups/Biweekly or monthly salary payment/Thai durian enjoys a bounty/Tourism goal set at Bt3 trillion/Effectiveness of visa-free policy/Focus to Kazakhstan/Thailand’s newest international airport/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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Residents bemoan ongoing problem of burning trash

Persistent burning of waste in the Smorprong area continues to be a thorn in the side for local residents, whom claim their pleas for help from authorities have fallen on deaf ears.

According to one resident of the area, “I have reported this to the authorities who went to the temple to ask the monks to stop. Monks said no and that they have no choice as trucks keep dumping up there everyday. The guy from the government then said there was nothing more that could be done! “ Continued …

Heavy rain forecast for much of Thailand

The Thai Meteorological Department is forecasting very heavy rain for 57 provinces, with an 80% chance of rain for Bangkok today.

The continuing heavy rainfall is caused by the strong monsoon influences over the lower northern, upper central, and northeastern regions of Thailand. Additionally, the monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand is contributing to moderate to heavy rain coverage, affecting various parts of the country, including the eastern region. Continued …

Tablets for students plan resurrected

The Thai Education Ministry is set to revive a decade-old initiative, which was originally launched by a previous Pheu Thai government, to distribute a tablet computer to each student and teacher across the country. This initiative aims to promote equal educational opportunities.

The announcement was made yesterday by Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob and his deputy, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, both members of the Bhumjaithai Party in the Pheu Thai-led coalition. During a gathering of ministry officials, their stated goal was to endorse good learning, with happiness. Continued …

Illegal Thai gun owners given 30 days to ‘trigger’ compliance

In an attempt to crack down on illegal firearm possession, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin drafted a 30-day amnesty for gun owners without permits. They now have a month to turn in these firearms at any police station before stricter enforcement measures are applied.

This initiative was implemented following a raid where a team of 100 officials targeted 21 locations in Nakhon Pathom. The operation resulted in the seizure of around 16 guns and 200 bullets from a network likened to organized crime. Continued …

iPhone 15 lineup set to juice up Thailand’s smartphone sales

Apple Inc’s new line of iPhone 15 models is set to boost Thailand’s smartphone sales in the fourth quarter, say industry analysts and a mobile phone distributor. In the premium smartphone market in Thailand, Apple and Samsung devices continue to reign.

Apple debuted the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max on Tuesday. Thai consumers will be among the first to access these models, with preorders opening tomorrow and widespread availability from Sept. 22. The iPhone15 Pro Max starts at 48,900 baht and the 15 Pro is priced at 41,900 baht, as per Apple Store Thailand’s website. Continued …

PM says he disagrees with recreational use of cannabis

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Friday he did not agree with allowing recreational use of cannabis, though its medical use would remain a policy under his administration.

“Cannabis policy will be medical cannabis. On recreational use, I do not agree with that,” Srettha, who is also finance minister, told reporters. Continued …

Thai Interior minister promotes cannabis for its medical and economic benefits

The government’s cannabis policy aims to promote health and economic development, as clarified by the Minister of Interior, rather than unregulated recreational use. The new interior minister said he was ready to explain in detail his decentralization policy, which has faced skepticism from critics.

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul elaborated on the government’s policy concerning cannabis as a means of promoting health and economic growth, stressing that it was not to encourage unregulated recreational use. Continued …

Surging rice prices raise specter of Asian food scare

Rising food prices are likely to prove an additional concern for central bankers trying to subdue inflation, as the cost of rice — a staple food in Asia — surges the most since 2008, according to HSBC Holdings.

“The memory of the 2008 Asian food price scare sits deep,” economists led by Frederic Neumann said in a research note on Friday. “Back then, rising rice prices in some economies quickly spilled over into other markets, as consumers and governments across the region scrambled to secure supplies. It also lifted the prices of other staples, such as wheat, as buyers shifted to alternatives.” Continued …

BOT governor suggests digital wallet for specific groups only

The Bank of Thailand governor believes the government should provide the digital wallet money handout to specific groups only to minimize strain on the national budget and avoid potential adverse financial impacts that could follow.

BOT’s Gov. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput told Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday that the central bank is concerned about the economic recovery. Continued …

Civil servants can choose biweekly or monthly salary payment: PM

Government officials will be able to choose when their salaries are paid, once or twice a month, said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday.

After the first cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Srettha told the media that, tentatively from Jan. 1, the new options for payment of civil service salaries will be introduced. Continued …

Thai durian enjoys a bounty as Chinese demand surges

A new report by HSBC Bank predicts that global demand for durian will surge by up to 400%, driven by a significant increase in durian consumption in China.

“While some may view durian as a fruit with a strong taste, and others complain about its distinctive smell, we anticipate that demand for durian will rise by up to 400% annually, primarily fueled by the growing popularity of durian in China,” HSBC Bank’s ASEAN region economist Aris Dacanay said. Continued …

New foreign tourism goal set at Bt3 trillion

The new tourism and sports minister set a new record target for foreign tourism receipts of 3 trillion baht, up from 1.9 trillion in 2019, aiming to establish the country as a sports and entertainment hub.

Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the tourism and sports minister, said the government would like to achieve this ambitious target as soon as possible, but it needs more time to draft an action plan. Continued … 

Effectiveness of visa-free policy for Chinese tourists doubted

The introduction of visa-free travel for Chinese tourists is unlikely to be very effective because of the current economic slowdown in China, Private Hospital Assn. Thailand President Chalerm Harnphanich said on Thursday.

He made the remark after the cabinet on Wednesday approved a tourism stimulus measure that offers visa-free travel for tourists from China and Kazakhstan from Sept. 25 to Feb. 29. Continued …

Thailand tourism shifts focus to Kazakhstan

Chinese tourists aren’t expected to immediately surge to 700,000 arrivals per month, despite a prospective Thailand tourism visa–free scheme, due to safety concerns and lower flight frequencies, currently at half of their pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

Phuket’s tourism operators are instead setting their sights on Kazakhstan, to be granted visa-free entries from Sept. 25 to Feb. 29, 2024. Travel agents see this market as having high potential. Continued …

Thailand’s newest international airport set for maiden flight

Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport, situated in southern Thailand, is poised to start a trial run of its state-of-the-art international passenger terminal, valued at 1.4 billion baht, on Sept. 19. This development marks an eagerly anticipated step toward its recognition as Thailand’s latest international airport.

Originally designed primarily for domestic flights, the airport has responded to the escalating demand for international travel by introducing a new terminal. It now awaits the official declaration affirming its status as a newly minted international airport in Thailand. Continued …

Rain, Floods Claim 11,300 Lives After Dams Give Out In Derna, Libya

The death toll in Libya’s coastal city of Derna has soared to 11,300, as search efforts continue following a massive flood fed by the breaching of two dams in heavy rains, the Libyan Red Crescent said Thursday. Continued …

World’s 10 biggest car companies by sales joined by Chinese EV

China’s new energy vehicle manufacturer BYD (its electric car at left) has joined the world’s 10 biggest car companies by sales for the first time in the first half of 2023, surpassing Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Tesla. Continued …

NASA joins the still controversial search for UFOs

NASA on Thursday officially joined the search for UFOs — but reflecting the stigma attached to the field, the U.S, space agency kept secret for hours the identity of the person heading a new program tracking mystery flying objects. Continued …

International Red Panda Day is tomorrow

Picture this: A creature, small yet striking, wrapped in russet fur so vivid it could ignite the darkest of forests with fiery charm. Its eyes, framed by a mask of darkness, hold a centuries-old mystery as if they have witnessed the dance of shadows and light in dense woodlands since time immemorial. Continued …

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.

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
bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Sept 14

Today’s news: Officials discuss tourism initiatives/Hua Hin ‘Reminiscing the Past’/Miss Thailand World in Hua Hin/Mrigadayavan Palace 3-day reopening/Navy To Retrieving HTMS Sukhothai/American man faces dilemma/Pita named an emerging leader/Surprise python visit/Cabinet takes steps to ease cost of living/Digital wallet scheme/To keep VAT at 7%/El Niño effect/Government’s plans to court China/Digital industry to contribute 30%/Sena’s energy-efficient homes/Bangkok Gems fair dazzles/Visa-free entry for Chinese/Thailand welcomes nearly 18.5M/Pattaya hotel industry shines/Chiang Mai Airport expansion/Noodle as tourist attraction/Shoe Gets Stuck At Airport/Baby Turtles Emerge on Koh Tao/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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Hua Hin officials discuss tourism initiatives

On Tuesday, the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Tourism Development Committee convened to chart the course for a new era of tourism throughout the region.

Officials unveiled a slew of initiatives aimed at stimulating the economy, creating jobs, and positioning Prachuap Khiri Khan as a premier tourism and business events destination. Continued …

Hua Hin ‘ Reminiscing the Past’ event Sept 22-Oct 1

Hua Hin will host the annual “Hua Hin, Reminiscing the Past” event Sept. 22-Oct. 1 to promote tourism and spotlight the cultural traditions of the region. The event wkill be held at the event grounds behind the BluPort Shopping Mall.

This year’s event will celebrate Hua Hin’s rich history, traditions, and the unique way of life enjoyed by locals.

Miss Thailand World beauties in Hua Hin

The Avani+ Hua Hin Resort recently played host to the contestants of Miss Thailand World 2023. The Miss Thailand World 2023 competition revolves around the empowering theme of “Real Beauty Empowers.” The fortunate contestant who will be crowned as Miss Thailand World 2023 stands to win a cash reward of 1 million baht, a diamond crown, and a car. (More photos) – HHT

Mrigadayavan Palace 3-day reopening Oct 13-15

The historic Mrigadayavan Palace in Cha Am will temporarily reopen to the public for three days Oct. 13-15. The palace has been undergoing restoration since 2021 and is set to officially reopen in May 2024

The can be viewed Oct. 13 from 1:30-4:30 pm, and on Oct. 14-15 from 9am-4:30 pm.

Admission fees are as follows:

  • Adults (both Thai nationals and foreigners: 90 baht per person
  • Higher education students and teachers: 60 baht per person
  • High school students and their teachers: 30 baht per person
  • Elementary school and kindergarten students, young children, teachers, priests, monks, the elderly, and people with special needs are encouraged to make a donation.

Navy Confirms Retrieving HTMS Sukhothai From Sea Off PKK

The Navy yesterday confirmed it is going ahead with its project to retrieve a sunken corvette from the Gulf of Thailand sea floor, while categorically dismissing allegations of non-transparency over it.

Navy spokesman Adm. Pokkhrong Monthatpalin said the Navy Fleet based at Sattahip will certainly have the sunken HTMS 442 Sukhothai retrieved by a private firm from the bottom of the sea off Prachuap Khiri Khan, though six bidders had earlier failed to meet specifications under the 200-million-baht project’s terms of reference. Continued …

American man faces dilemma as Thai girlfriend’s parents demand 1 million baht dowry

An American man asked netizens for advice on what to do after his Thai girlfriend’s family demanded a million baht dowry, known as sinsod in Thailand. He said he loved her very much but was not a foolish farang.

The American shared his story on the social media platform Reddit. The man began by explaining that he was dating a Thai university student from a province in the Isaan region of Thailand. He expected that his girlfriend did not make much money from her career after graduation but her parents are middle class and own a shipping company. Continued …

Pita named an emerging leader in TIME100 Next list

Move Forward leader and prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat is the only Thai to make it to Time magazine’s “TIME100 Next” list for 2023.

The U.S.-based magazine on Wednesday published this year’s list of emerging leaders from around the world who are shaping the future and defining the next generation of leadership, in a campaign that has been held annually since 2019. Continued … 

Late-night drive in Bangkok takes a twist with surprise python visit

A woman’s late-night drive took a slithery turn when a python surprised her by emerging from the engine compartment after she returned from a meal. At around 1am today, emergency services from the Thung Mahamek Fire Station were called to a parking lot in front of a convenience store in the Yan Nawa district of Bangkok.

The woman had been driving back from a meal with friends at Lang Linchi Road when the incident occurred. The driver, and identified only as Monchanapath, was shocked to see a python’s head emerge from the front of her black Mazda2 car. Continued …

Cabinet takes steps to ease cost of living, sets dates for visa-free scheme

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin set up a committee on Tuesday to oversee the implementation of his government’s much-publicized 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme. The committee will be chaired by the premier himself in his capacity as finance minister, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said.

In the policy statement delivered to Parliament on Monday, the Pheu Thai-led coalition had stated that the 10,000 baht digital wallet handout would not be a burden on the country’s public debt and would adhere to stringent financial discipline. Continued …

Digital wallet scheme could take a decade to pay off, economists warn

The government’s digital wallet scheme will most likely help Thailand’s GDP reach 6% next year, but the effect will be short-lived and will saddle the country with a massive amount of public debt for nearly a decade, Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) warned on Wednesday.

The warning was made as the EIC released its third-quarter revised report on Thailand’s economic growth outlook for the year. Continued …

Cabinet agrees to keep VAT at 7% for another year

The Cabinet decided yesterday to retain the 7% value-added tax (VAT) rate on goods and services until Sept. 30, 2024, to stimulate economic recovery through spending on consumer products and services.

Keeping it at 7% will be a relief for consumers and businesses alike, who were worried that VAT might rise to 10%, which would impact spending by consumers. Continued …

El Niño effect: Industries in hot water as mining and livestock hit hard

El Niño’s weather anomaly is triggering a ripple effect on industries beyond just agriculture, with mining and livestock sectors also feeling the pinch. This is according to a new study by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, which warns that the phenomenon may lead to a surge in prices for consumer goods, energy, and inflation, compounded by an increase in international shipping costs.

The director-general of the office, Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, expressed concern over the potential harm El Niño could inflict on Thailand’s agricultural sector. The report suggests that a decrease in income from agricultural and agro-industrial exports is on the horizon, with the mining and livestock industries already seeing adverse effects. Continued …

Government’s plans to court China ignores economic realities

In economics and diplomacy, decisions can’t be made lightly — especially when they have far-reaching implications for a country’s economic and geopolitical stability. Yet, Thailand’s new government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin appears to be taking an ill-advised gamble by tying the nation’s economic future primarily to China.

This strategic move is especially concerning given the precarious state of China’s economy and its increasingly ideological governance under Xi Jinping. Continued …

Digital industry predicted to contribute 30% of GDP by 2027

The Office of the National Digital Economy and Society Commission (ONDE) is predicting that Thailand’s digital industry will contribute as much as 30% of the country’s gross domestic product by 2027, adding that next year it intends to focus on promoting cloud-based infrastructure to ensure achievement of this target.

ONDE Secretary-general Putchapong Nodthaisong on Wednesday announced the office’s operational strategy for 2024, saying that it would fully support the “Go Cloud First” policy of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES). Continued …

Property developer Sena takes big strides toward energy-efficient homes

Real-estate company Sena Development (Sena) is building “zero energy” houses in line with Thailand’s environment-friendly, sustainable trends.

The company’s Managing Director Kessara Thanyalakpark said on Wednesday that people are now more focused on preserving the environment, and many parties are working on achieving sustainable goals. Continued …

Bangkok Gems fair dazzles with record-breaking success

The 68th Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair, which recently concluded, surpassed all anticipated outcomes. The fair took place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) Sept. 6-10 and welcomed almost 40,000 attendees hailing from 117 countries, a notable 44% surge compared to the previous event, according to Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, the director-general of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP).

The fair was particularly appealing to international participants, with India, Myanmar, China, Sri Lanka, the United States, Japan, Pakistan, Vietnam, Russia and Australia making up the top 10 countries represented. Throughout the five-day event, the estimated trade value hit 3.3 billion baht, surpassing the initial target. Continued …

Thailand approves visa-free entry for 5 months for Chinese

Thailand’s new government Wednesday approved a measure granting temporary visa-free entry to Chinese tourists, signaling that the recovery of the country’s tourism industry is a top economic priority.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the visa exemption, which will also apply to visitors from the Central Asian nation of Kazakhstan, will be effective from Sept. 25 until Feb. 29 next year. He said the relevant authorities had been consulted to ensure they are ready to handle the expected surge in travelers. Continued … 

Thailand welcomes nearly 18.5 million tourists in 2023

Nearly 18.5 million foreign tourists have visited Thailand so far this year, with the Malaysians leading the way. Of the total number of foreign tourists to visit the kingdom this year, 3 million were Malaysian.

According to the tourism ministry, revenue from tourist spending stands at more than 775 billion baht. It’s forecasting a total of 28 million foreign visitors to the kingdom this year, with a big surge predicted during the peak end-of-year holiday season. Continued …

Pattaya hotel industry shines amid European gloom

Despite Europe’s deteriorating economic forecast, Pattaya’s hotel industry remains robust, backed primarily by Asian and domestic tourists, says the managing director of LH Mall and Hotel (LHMH). Pattaya, traditionally known for its nightlife, has successfully rebranded itself as a family and business-friendly destination.

As the European Commission revises the Eurozone’s growth outlook and Germany faces a potential recession this year, LHMH Managing Director Kitti Worrabanpott, suggests that hotels focusing on the European market may feel the impact more significantly. Continued … 

Chiang Mai Airport plans massive expansion to accommodate 16.5 million travelers

Chiang Mai Airport is set to table its expansion proposal to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during his scheduled visit this weekend.

The airport’s director, Wijit Kaewsaitiam, revealed that the Thai Cement Manufacturers Assn. (TCMA) is set to spearhead the construction of the terminal’s first phase. Continued …

How the noodle became a tourist attraction

Tourists visiting Thailand can now learn about local attractions, cultures and cuisines just by reading the packaging of instant noodles.

The campaign is the latest collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Nissin Foods (Thailand), which has seen the redesign of instant noodles packaging to include photos and details of tourist attractions in Thailand. Continued …

Tourist’s Shoe Gets Stuck At Airport Moving Walkway

Taking place again just two and half months after a woman’s left leg was severed to the knee by a moving walkway at Don Mueang Airport was a scary moment for a tourist when his shoe got jammed in a travelator at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

A video of this scary incident was shared by a TikTok user and fortunately the tourist was not injured. Continued …

Foreign Tourists Marvel as 52 Baby Turtles Emerge on Koh Tao

Yesterday, in Surat Thani province, members of the Turtle Conservation Assn. on Koh Pha Ngan received a report from staff at the Koh Tao Resort, Nai Thon Beach, Koh Tao, that the first baby turtles from Mother Thongdee’s second nest had emerged from their eggs since Monday morning from a total of three nests.

Members of the Turtle Conservation Assn., municipal officials of Koh Tao, and volunteers joined forces to monitor the turtle nest, attempting to allow the baby turtles to naturally make their way to the sea. Continued …

Death toll from flooding in Libya surpasses 5,000

The death toll in Libya has surpassed 5,300 people after a storm caused dams in a coastal city to break, leaving thousands more injured. Muhammad Abu Moshe told the Libyan News Agency the death toll for the entire region is at least 5,300 after Storm Daniel made landfall on Sunday and dropped as much as 16 inches of rain in the Northern African country. Continued …

How close is Earth to becoming unlivable?

We’re two-thirds of the way towards an unlivable planet. According to a new study released Wednesday, human activity has now gone past six of nine planetary “boundaries” that are “important for maintaining the stability and resilience of Earth as a place conducive to human welfare.” Continued …

iPhone 12 sales banned in France over radiation level

A French watchdog agency says Apple’s iPhone 12 emits too much electromagnetic radiation and should be withdrawn from the market, a claim the tech giant disputes. Continued …

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.

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

Tuesday’s news-Sept 12

Today’s news: PKK Hospital’s new MRI Diagnostic Center/Thailand’s largest naga statue/Cha Am seafood festival returns/Singing in the rain/Storing vegetables and fruits in a freezer/Best beverage container environmentally/One step closer to ‘net zero’ goal/15 million electric cars in 2023/Thai-EU trade talks/Medical Fair Thailand/Tourist taxes/The slow return of Chinese tourists/South Korean Tourists Get Slapped/Eating Spicy Food When It’s Hot Outside/ 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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Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital unveils new MRI Diagnostic Center

Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital opened its state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnostic center on Saturday.

The MRI diagnostic method stands out for its precision in detecting internal body abnormalities, producing high-resolution images using a magnetic field and radio frequency waves. Notably, the procedure does not expose patients to radiation, making it a preferred option for various diagnostic requirements, including brain and bone imaging. Continued …

Thailand’s largest naga statue officially unveiled in Cha Am

Wat Tham Chaeng in Cha Am celebrated the grand unveiling of Thailand’s largest naga statue on Saturday. Situated in the Khao Yai Subdistrict, next to the Phetchaburi Immigration office, the statue stands at a height of 31 meters and boasts a diameter of two meters.

Cha Am seafood festival returns

The viewpoint at Cha Am Beach is playing host to the 22nd “Shellfish & Squid Festival @ Cha Am” through this coming Saturday. The event promises lots of delicious food, live music, and lots of fun activities. There also are local product stalls around the Cha Am beach viewpoint, and nightly squid fishing trips for 100 baht. Entry to the festival is free.

Singing in the rain: Foreigners spark controversy with temple display

A group of enthusiastic foreigners sparked both amusement and criticism among Thai netizens after sharing a video of dancing and singing in the rain Gene Kelly-style in front of a crematorium at a temple in Thailand.

Video 

A foreign woman shared a video of herself and friends on her TikTok account @ks_photogallery. The video features six people taking time out to reenact the 1952 movie Singin’ in the Rain, starring Gene Kelly, while the crematorium and temple formed the backdrop. Continued …

How long can vegetables and fruits be stored in a freezer?

“My family has a habit of storing food in large quantities. How long should vegetables and fruits be stored in a freezer but retain their flavor and safety?” These issues should be of concern to all families.

Freezing is one of the easiest forms of food preservation. Although food can stay safe in the freezer almost indefinitely, that doesn’t mean it will retain its quality and flavor forever. The freezing process does, however, prevent bacteria in the food from growing. Continued …

What is the best beverage container environmentally?

Here’s a quick game for the climate-conscious. Try ranking these disposable beverage containers from least to most environmentally friendly: aluminum, glass, paperboard, plastic bottle, plastic pouch.

Unless you’re an expert in the subject, your answers are likely a long way from reality. That’s a problem. Packaging is a trillion-dollar (34.5 trillion baht) market that generates hundreds of millions of metric tons of waste yearly — but our ideas about it are often based more on hunches than solid information. Continued …

Thailand takes 2nd place as best nation for starting business

Thailand has secured the second position as the best country in the world to start a business in 2023, as per rankings published in the US News and World Report.

The “Best Countries for Starting a Business in 2023” report assessed 85 countries on various factors, such as taxes, labor conditions and other business-related conditions. The rankings to start a business this year were determined through a comprehensive survey involving more than 17,000 people worldwide. Continued …

Prime minister outlines new government’s economic policies

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday pledged to implement the Pheu Thai-led coalition government’s policies for optimum interests of the country and people.

On the first day of the new government’s policy statement at parliament, the prime minister vowed to put forward four urgent policies to boost the national economy and relieve the people’s economic woes. Continued …

Thailand Dealing with Growing Global Headwinds

Thailand’s economic recovery may be hindered by a global slowdown, and the government’s economic stimulus policies could lead to higher government debt, according to Fitch Ratings analysts.

The U.S. is expected to experience a mild recession, while Europe will see below-trend growth due to persistent inflation. China’s growth is slowing due to a severe downturn in the property sector. Thailand is also affected by the weaker global backdrop, with declining merchandise exports and below-pre-pandemic levels of tourist arrivals. Continued …

Thailand moves one step closer to ‘net zero’ goal

The Carbon Markets Club and the Thai Renewable Energy Assn. (RE 100) joined forces on Monday, signing an agreement to collaborate on initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Gloyta Nathalang, executive vice president for corporate branding, communication and sustainability activation at Bangchak Corp., and Veeradej Tejapaibul, president of RE 100, formalized their collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding in a ceremony at Century Park Hotel Bangkok. Continued …

Gartner forecasts 15 million electric cars will be shipped in 2023

Nearly 15 million electric cars (battery electric and plug-in hybrid) are expected to be shipped worldwide in 2023, according to the latest forecast by Gartner. Shipments of electric cars are estimated to increase 19% in 2024, to total 17.9 million units.

Gartner forecasts that shipments of all-electric vehicles (EVs) – cars, buses, vans and heavy trucks – will total 18.5 million units in 2024, with electric car shipments representing 97% of total EV shipments next year. Continued …

Thai-EU trade talks to start next week

Thailand is preparing to embark on talks regarding a free-trade agreement with the European Union (Thai-EU FTA) next week, with the aim of concluding the deal within two years.

According to Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Trade Negotiations under the Commerce Ministry, the ministry is preparing to lead a team of state agencies to negotiate the first round of the Thai-EU FTA, scheduled for Sept. 18-22 in Brussels, Belgium. Continued …

Medical Fair Thailand 2023 returns next week

Next week will see the opening of the much-awaited Medical Fair Thailand 2023. This marks the first edition since 2019, a hiatus attributed to the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the exhibition prepares to open its door in a matter of days, the significance of the exhibition is magnified as it welcomes 800 exhibitors hailing from 40 countries, as well as 22 national pavilions and country groups, notably featuring Latvia, Poland, and Portugal for the first time. Continued …

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

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

As a result, some resorted to implementing a “tourist tax” last year and others have followed suit in 2023. Continued …

What the slow return of Chinese tourists means to Thai tourism

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for Chinese tourists, who accounted for nearly 30% of the total international arrivals to Thailand in 2019.

In every country in Southeast Asia, Chinese tourists make up a substantial number of arrivals every year. Because of that, pretty much since outbound travel from China dried up at the onset of the pandemic, tourism and hospitality professionals have had just one question on their lips: when will they be coming back? Continued …

South Korean Tourists Splash Beer at Pattaya Women and Get Slapped

Two South Korean tourists reportedly threw beer at a group of Thai women, before the group attacked them in retaliation, resulting in one tourist being injured. The incident occurred on Soi 12 near Pattaya Beach Sunday night.

Sawang Boriboon rescue workers received a report of the incident and rushed to the scene to find two unidentified South Korean men lying in the middle of the road, seemingly heavily intoxicated. Continued …

Why It Actually Makes Sense To Eat Spicy Food When It’s Hot Outside

You wouldn’t think that eating a meal of fiery Sichuan Dan Dan noodles with numbing oil or warming tom yum soup would cool you down when it’s hellishly hot outside, but it’s true. Take a look at where some of the spiciest foods come from to see that they’re usually the warmest places on the planet.

Curries, salsas, and jerks are all enjoyed in places like Thailand, Mexico, and Jamaica, where residents are seemingly unfazed by both the spicy food and the high temperatures. The answer lies not in a tolerance for either spice or heat, but rather a physiological quirk of the human body – sweating. Continued …

Town in Portugal flooded by red wine after distillery’s tanks burst

A coastal village in Portugal faced a flooding Sunday like no other as 600,000 gallons of red wine flowed through the streets of the small town of São Lorenco de Bairro, according to local outlets. Continued …

How technology and innovation shape Norway as a leader in aquaculture and sustainability

Norway is known for its cold and rough climate, which makes it challenging for humans to live in, but it is a perfect living condition for fish. This is why Norway thrives on fishing and aquaculture, a tradition that has been passed down for many generations and has become one of the biggest and most sustainable seafood exporters in the world. Continued …

The 25 most important AI words everyone should know

Most acknowledge the growing impact of artificial intelligence worldwide, but only a few understand it. People usually hear terms like “chatbots,” “machine learning”, and “large language models” and steer clear from discussing this technology. However, you can catch up by learning the most important artificial intelligence jargon. Continued …

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.

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

 

bangkok, climate change, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Sept 9

Today’s news: Reader Feedback/Hua Hin Wine Expo/Thailand rated 29th/Parliament to tackle food waste/7-Eleven plans 700 new stores in Thailand/Walmart discusses sustainability/Food delivery drivers feel pinch/Focus remains on EV package/Thai taxi drivers seek EV incentives/Thai tourism set to soar/Restaurant guidebook launchedPhuket authorities dismiss Russian concerns/New rules on speedboat operators/Thailand International Boat Show/Bangkok Air keen on Phangnga airport/Tom kha gai rated best chicken soup/Nan’s treasure trove of cultural delights/22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok/International news/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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“Just a bit confused regards diesel price caps. If the current cap is 32 baht per litre, how is it that I’m seeing it more than that at every filling station I pass? Surely this is illegal if the government has mandated 32 baht?” – Peter

 

 

Heavy rains forecast for most of Thailand

Isolated heavy rains will hit the north, central, east and the south of Thailand today, but they will be heaviest in the northeast, the Meteorological Department warned.

The downpours will be caused by the monsoon trough lying across the upper north and the upper northeast that extends to a low-pressure zone over the Gulf of Tonkin. Continued …

Thailand rated 29th in US News & World Report’s Best Countries List

Thailand secured a place in the top 30 of the U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 Best Countries list.

The list was created considering each nation’s global performance in various aspects. For example, daily life adventure, agility, cultural influence, entrepreneurship, heritage, quality of life, and more. Continued …

Parliament to tackle food waste after public uproar

A flap over leftover food in the parliamentary dining room has led to a pledge by Parliament President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha to look into the issue and discuss ways to make sure less food ends up going to waste.

The extent of free meals and drinks provided to members of Parliament has drawn wide public attention in the wake of a social media food fight featuring Move Forward MP Sirilapas “Mew” Kongtrakarn. Continued …

7-Eleven debuts in Laos, plans 700 new stores in Thailand

CP All Plc will open hundreds of new 7-Eleven convenience stores and expand its 7-Eleven Delivery service, both in Thailand and internationally, it announced after opening its first branch in Laos.

It plans to add 700 new branches in Thailand, increase its total in Cambodia to 100 stores and open one new branch in Laos. Continued …

US retailer Walmart discusses sustainability with Thai officials, entrepreneurs

The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has ensured American retail giant Walmart that Thai foods and agricultural products, as well as their supply chains, are environmentally friendly and are ready to comply with global sustainability standards.

Walmart executives recently met with ministry Permanent-secretary Sedthakiat Krajangwong and representatives of Thai entrepreneurs to discuss Thailand’s adoption of global sustainability standards. Continued …

Thailand’s food delivery drivers feel pinch as Grab, Line rack up losses

When Piti began working as a Grab delivery driver at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 26-year-old Bangkok resident had little trouble earning a decent wage.

But after two years of delivering food to homes and offices, Piti’s earnings have taken such a dramatic hit that he is looking to switch jobs. Continued …

Focus remains on EV package

Newly appointed Industry Minister Pimphattra Wichaikul pledges to step up efforts to pass a new electric vehicle (EV) incentive package to develop the fledgling Thai industry, hoping to win approval from the Pheu Thai-led coalition government.

The existing package of incentives, including tax cuts and subsidies, is meant to promote EV consumption and production between 2022 and 2023. Continued …

Thai taxi drivers seek incentives to shift to electric vehicles

Taxi drivers across Thailand, represented by the Thai Public Taxi Assn., are petitioning the country’s transport minister for a financial incentive package to facilitate their switch to electric vehicles (EVs).

Association Chairman Sadit Jaitiang plans to bring up this key concern during a meeting slated for next Friday with Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. The meeting is expected to address a range of issues impacting taxi drivers’ welfare. Continued … 

Thai tourism set to soar with anticipated Chinese visa exemption

The Thai tourism industry is poised for a significant boost, as an anticipated visa exemption for Chinese travelers could trigger a surge in foreign tourists, according to Chinese government-owned Thai brokerage, CGS-CIMB Securities (Thailand).

However, the firm predicts that the arrival figures will still lag behind the 2019 statistics due to the economic challenges faced by the mainland. Continued …

Restaurant guidebook launched for culinary treats in secondary cities

One of the world’s leading travel platforms, Booking.com, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has launched the “Thai Foodie Map”, an exclusive guidebook of recommended local restaurants in secondary cities across the country.

The move is part of TAT’s efforts to attract both foreign and domestic travelers looking for authentic culinary experiences, aiming to entice tourists to stay longer and spend more money in Thailand. Continued …

Phuket authorities dismiss concerns over rising Russian population and mafia claims

Yesterday, Phuket authorities refuted allegations that the island has been overrun by Russians, including members of the mafia. These claims were sparked by a report in Al Jazeera earlier this week, which highlighted concerns among locals.

The locals fear that Russian tourists are snatching jobs usually held by Thais, operating unlawful businesses, and causing a surge in property prices, making it increasingly challenging to rent on the island. Continued …

Pattaya authorities impose new rules on speedboat operators at Bali Hai Pier

In Pattaya City, the local authorities have put forth new stringent regulations to deal with issues plaguing speedboat operators at Bali Hai Pier. This includes the implementation of standardized ticket prices and a ban on herding tourists.

On a day in early September, the Pattaya City Council convened to strategize and regulate tour boat operations. This was spurred by a conflict among operators competing for tourists heading to Koh Larn from Bali Hai Pier, situated in South Pattaya. Continued …

Thailand International Boat Show to drive growth of marine leisure tourism

The new expanded format and the addition of “Thailand Yachting Conference” and “Robb Report Best of the Best Yachting Awards” make the show a must-attend event for boat enthusiasts across Asia.

Organizers of Thailand’s premier boating and luxury lifestyle platform, the Thailand International Boat Show A Luxury Lifestyle Event, which is set to take place Jan. 11 – 14 at Royal Phuket Marina, expect the expanded format to attract over 6,000 visitors and provide a boost to Thailand’s marine leisure industry. Continued …

Bangkok Air keen on Phangnga airport

Bangkok Airways is eager to invest in the new airport planned for Phangnga if the government switches its plan from a public project to a public-private partnership scheme, as the project has high potential to become a new tourism hub in Thailand.

The government is considering building a new airport in Phangnga in an effort to handle the congestion at Phuket airport. Continued …

Tom kha gai rated best chicken soup

Thailand’s tom kha gai, chicken in galangal-infused coconut cream soup, has won first place among the 10 Best Rated Chicken Soups in the World, as ranked on the TasteAtlas global food mapping site this week.

TasteAtlas ranked tom kha gai top of the list, with 4.7 out of five stars. There were a total of 1,376 entries for the ranking. Continued … 

Treasure trove of cultural delights awaits visitors to Nan

The northern province of Nan is known for its beautiful mountainous landscape, local temples, one of which bears the famed mural of the whispering couple, and traditional rock salt production. But those attractions aside, the province has plenty of cultural highlights just waiting to be discovered.

Spread over 11,472 square kilometers, Nan is bordered by Uttaradit, Phrae and Phayao, and to its north and east by Sainyabuli province in Laos, a geological landscape that has given birth to a blend of art and culture mirrored in temples across the province. Continued …

22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Rooftop Bars and Ancient Temples Included

One of the most exciting and energetic capital cities in the world, Bangkok is the perfect gateway for travelers ready to take a deep dive into the beauty, history, culture, and traditions of Southeast Asia. The frenetic metropolis may cause a bit of sensory overload, but getting into its rhythm is part of the adventure.

Built along the Chao Phraya River, modern-day Bangkok is an amalgamation of culture, ethnicities, architecture, and even time periods. It’s entirely possible to pass a 400-year-old temple on one corner and a tech-forward, 21st-century shopping mall on the next. Continued …

India Or Bharat? Dinner Invite Sparks Speculation Amid Push To Rebrand The Country

It began with a dinner invitation. How it ends could affect more than a billion people. State-issued invites sent to guests of this week’s G20 meeting referred to India’s president, Droupadi Murmu, as “President of Bharat.” Suddenly, in many circles, the question was everywhere: Would the country of more than 1.4 billion now be called by its ancient Sanskrit name? Continued …

Earthquake In Morocco Kills At Least 296 People

A powerful earthquake that struck Morocco late Friday night killed at least 296 people, the country’s Interior Ministry said. Moroccans posted videos showing buildings reduced to rubble and dust and parts of the famous red walls that surround the old city in historic Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site, damaged. Continued …

Hong Kong, Shenzhen deluged by heaviest rain on record

The Asian financial hub of Hong Kong was drenched on Friday by the heaviest rain since records began 140 years ago, with 83 people hurt, three seriously, as unusually wet weather caused by typhoons brought more disruption to southern China. Continued …

France’s latest crude, culinary counter-offensive

The French government has just published a decree banning the use of terms like “steak”, “spare ribs” and “ham” on plant-based foods. Sausages and “poultry nuggets” will escape the ban so long as the plant protein content is less than 6%. Continued …

World falling dangerously short of climate goals: UN

A world facing catastrophic climate change is perilously off course in meeting goals for slashing carbon pollution and boosting finance for the developing world, according to the UN’s first official progress report out Friday. Continued …

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.

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

 

cha am, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s news-Sept 7

Today’s news: New headteacher/’Landmark’ for Hin Lek Fai/Wellness Center Launches in Cha Am/Cha Am seafood festival/Hua Hin Bike Tour Tha Sadet/Severe weather warning/AI-based scams/Dogs rescue missing toddler/Elevating Universal Healthcare Scheme/Taiwanese electronics firms choose Thailand/Thai hotel bookings surge/Thai climate fund/Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair/18 million arrivals/Sick of Russian Draft Dodgers/One Soft Power policy introduced/New airport bus service/20 things to do in Chiang Mai/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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Hua Hin International School welcomes new headteacher

Hua Hin International School (HHIS) has appointed Beccy Fox as its new headteacher, succeeding Julie Way who recently retired. Fox, who took the helm in August, brings with her a wealth of international experience in education.

“I worked for 10 years in a primary school in East London. My roots are in early years education,” Fox said. Continued … 

Hua Hin officials consider ‘landmark’ for Hin Lek Fai

Hua Hin officials met yesterday to discuss the proposed redevelopment of Khao Hin Lek Fai. Top of the agenda was enhancing the Khao Hin Lek Fai tourist attraction, particularly on improving its viewpoint areas.

Officials are hoping to create something new for tourists, with each of Khao Hin Lek Fai’s viewpoints displaying Hua Hin’s unique character.

The project has been designed by Macro Consultants and Ace Two O Consultants .

Chiva Rak Wellness Center Launches in Cha Am

B-Healthy Asia Co., Ltd., a leading wellness package booking platform, has teamed up with five-star hotel chain Mida Hospitality Group to introduce the Chiva Rak Wellness Center, a haven for wellness enthusiasts. The inaugural branch is nestled within the premises of the Ace of Hua Hin Resort in Cha Am, Phetchaburi Province.

The wellness package booking platform www.b-healthy.me, operated by B-Healthy Asia Co., has united with MIDA Hospitality Group to establish the Chiva Rak Wellness brand. Continued …

Cha Am seafood festival starts Saturday

The viewpoint at Cha Am Beach will play host to the 22nd “Shellfish & Squid Festival @ Cha Am” from Sept. 9-16. The event promises lots of delicious food, live music, and lots of fun activities.

One of the main highlights of the festival is the wide range of locally caught seafood that will be available for visitors to sample. From grilled prawns and squid to fried fish and crab, there will be something to please everyone’s taste buds. Continued …

Hua Hin Bike Tour Tha Sadet cycling event Sunday

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 …

Severe weather warning for 56 Thai provinces

A severe weather warning has been issued by the Thai Meteorological Department today, warning 56 provinces against heavy thunderstorms.

The northeast region, accounting for 80% of the area, is expected to face the brunt of the downpour. Bangkok, too, is under a warning to prepare for potential flash floods and runoff. Continued …

AI-based scams on the rise

Operators of dubious investment schemes are exploiting the buzz around artificial intelligence (AI), using it as a tempting facade to entice victims. The new wave of fraud is being promoted by these operators, who claim their AI-backed schemes are almost fail-proof and a surefire way of making profits.

Raymon Ram, a criminologist who specializes in the field of financial forensics, said that with AI appearing as a symbol of advanced capability and promise, unscrupulous individuals are exploiting it to gain the trust of the public. Continued …

Police dogs rescue missing toddler in Chiang Mai

Two K9 dogs successfully located and rescued a two-year-oldmboy who had gone missing from his distraught family’s residence in the northern province of Chiang Mai.

The family of the child, named Copter, sought help from the Mae Fak Police Station Tuesday after he disappeared from the family house. The house is located on a plantation near a large graveyard in the Mae Fak subdistrict. Continued …

Minister Focusing On Elevating Universal Healthcare Scheme

Public Health Minister Chonlanan Srikaew said at Government House yesterday that the Pheu Thai-led government will be working on elevating the universal healthcare scheme to give people more access to services.

While saying the first policy his ministry will be implementing would be in accordance to what is to be stated in the policy statement to be delivered to Parliament on Monday (Sept. 11), Chonlanan, who is a physician, pointed out that the original universal healthcare project had been adjusted since its introduction by the Thai Rak Thai government in 2002. Continued …

Taiwanese electronics firms spark 30-billion-baht boom in Thailand

The electronics industry of Thailand is set to experience significant growth, as 20 new investments, amounting to 30-billion baht, have been approved by the Board of Investment (BoI). These investments are from Taiwan-based electronics firms that have shown intent to establish Thailand as their new export base.

The BoI indicated that this move is particularly noteworthy for manufacturers of printed circuit boards (PCBs), as they seek new investment locations to circumvent the effects of geopolitical conflicts, including the tensions between China and Taiwan. Additionally, operating costs in Thailand are considerably lower than in the U.S. and Europe, making it an attractive investment destination. Continued …

Thai hotel bookings surge thanks to government agencies

Hotels have started to record an uptick in bookings from government agencies that have to use their fiscal 2023 budget before the deadline at the end of September, though reservations for China’s national holiday in October remain weak.

Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, president of the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA), said hotel bookings in September increased, as meetings, both from the government and private sectors, grew by 10%-20%. Bookings of meetings stagnated over the past few months as the country awaited the formation of a new government. Continued …

Thai agency launches climate fund

To tackle climate change by helping state agencies and private businesses reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) has launched the Thai Climate Initiative Fund, or the Thai CI Fund, to provide much-needed financial support.

“Agencies or businesses will need substantial funding to adjust their operations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and this is where the Thai CI Fund will step in and make it possible,” Pirun Saiyasitpanich, ONEP’s secretary general, said on Wednesday. Continued …

68th Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair expected to generate 3 billion baht

Thailand’s 68th Gems and Jewelry Fair was officially opened on Wednesday by Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, director-general of the Commerce Ministry’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP).

The fair is being held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) from Sept. 6 to 10, and is jointly organized by DITP, and the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT), with support from 15 public and private trade agencies. Continued …

First 9 months of 2023 – 18 million arrivals, still short of 30-million projection

The latest figures from the Tourism and Sports Ministry show that Thailand has welcomed more than 18 million foreigners from Jan. 1 to Sept. 3. The arrivals have, so far, generated up to 755.72 billion baht in revenue.

Thailand’s projection for the tourism industry this year is up to 30 million arrivals, with an injection of 1.5 trillion baht. Continued …

Phuket Locals Are Getting Sick of Russian Draft Dodgers, Lawbreakers

Tensions are mounting at a popular tourist destination in Thailand thanks to a massive increase in the number of Russians moving there to escape being drafted into fighting the war in Ukraine, according to a report.

Locals in the southern province of Phuket are now complaining that the Russian arrivals have created a Russian-only economy on the island, allegedly taking jobs away from locals and fueling an increase in property prices that makes life harder for renters. Continued …

One Family, One Soft Power policy introduced

The new government of Thailand, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has introduced a policy known as “One Family, One Soft Power” (OFOS). This policy aims to promote Thailand’s soft power, starting by improving the skills of Thai people with free training programs and workshops.

The political campaigns of the Pheu Thai Party gained a lot of interest from the people. For example, the 20-baht train fare, 10,000-baht digital currency, constitution revision, and same-sex marriage all caught the electorate’s imagination. Continued …

New bus service connects airport to 500 hotels

Four major partners in Thailand’s tourism and transportation industry have joined forces for the launch of the Bua Airport Express, a bus service connecting Suvarnabhumi airport to over 500 hotels in Bangkok.

This service aims to provide convenient and cost-effective travel options for just 180 baht per trip, covering three routes across the city: Sathon-Mahanakon Tower-MBK Center; Yaowarat-Chinatown-Saochingcha; and Asok-Sukhumvit-EmQuartier-Thong Lor, including various tourist attractions and shopping malls. Continued …

20 things to do in Chiang Mai

The city of Chiang Mai sits nestled among the luscious jungle of Thailand’s north, offering visitors a variety of experiences and landscapes right on their doorstep. It really is the perfect place to experience so many aspects of Thai lifestyle and culture.

And I can promise you this; whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, culture enthusiast, foodie or just looking for a unique getaway, Chiang Mai will not just meet but will exceed every traveller’s expectations and dreams. From temple-hopping, elephant bathing and jungle trekking, to more leisurely activities like river cruises, cooking classes and monk meetings, there really is something for everyone. Continued …

Saudi Arabia and Russia extend oil cuts, pushing Brent crude to 10-month high

The global oil market experienced a significant shift as Saudi Arabia and Russia disclosed their decision to prolong voluntary oil production cuts until the end of the year. This announcement pushed Brent crude prices to a peak unseen in the last 10 months. Continued …

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.

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

 

cha am, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news-Sept 5

Today’s news: Water supply disruptions/Can I drink tap water in Hua Hin?/Hua Hin beach road left in ruins/PKK’s new official dish/Sam Roi Yat boardwalk opens/Thailand’s largest naga statue/Storm affects 54 provinces/Controversy Over Taxi Guidelines/Inflation up 0.88%/New Thai Cabinet prioritizes economic recovery/Government economy plan/Company installs solar power plants/Visa-free plan criminal warning/Visa-free policy welcomed by ATTA/Warning over new hotel regulations/Rainy season travel wish list/In-Flight Frustrations/Thailand’s ultimate beach getaway/Preferred Destination for Remote Work/September events in Prachuap Khiri Khan/Global sugar prices to surgeASEAN in the spotlight/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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Can I drink tap water in Hua Hin?

The tap water source for Hua Hin comes from the Pranburi Dam and Phetburi Dam. The water from the dams is treated at water-treatment plants before it is pumped into the tap water distribution system.

There are five water-treatment plants in Hua Hin and they all use a similar process to treat the water. The water is first filtered to remove sediment and other large particles. It is then disinfected with chlorine to kill harmful bacteria and viruses before it enters the tap water distributed in Hua Hin. Continued …

Hua Hin beach road left in ruins by ocean waves, affecting 2,500 households

Intense waves, coupled with rising sea levels, caused severe damage to a cement road along Hua Hin beach in Satun province. The wave damage disrupted the lives of 2,500 households in 10 villages, causing transportation difficulties. Local officials have swiftly initiated an assessment of the damage and marked hazardous areas.

Following the distress signal from local leaders about the powerful sea wave hitting the shore, Jamras Hongsai, the head of the La-ngu subdistrict administrative organization, accompanied by local disaster prevention and mitigation officials, promptly arrived at the scene. The surge, together with the swelling sea water, had led to severe erosion of the cement road leading to the beachside villages. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan has a new official dish – snakehead fish and cattail shoot curry

Prachuap Khiri Khan now has a new official dish, which even some locals are admitting they’ve never heard of.

Last week, the Department of Cultural Promotion announced a new promotional campaign that aimed to officially recognize one dish from each province in Thailand. Continued …

Renovated Sam Roi Yat boardwalk opens

The renovated boardwalk at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is now open, offering views along a kilometer-long wooden structure over the Thung Sam Roi Yot freshwater marsh. The boardwalk includes seating areas and a viewing tower.

 

Opening of Thailand’s largest naga statue in Cha Am Sept 9

Preparations are underway for the official opening of Thailand’s largest naga, which is located at Wat Tham Cheng in Cha Am.

The opening ceremony for the statue, called Por Pu Phaya Phet Khiri Mahamuni Srisutthonakarat, will take place on Sept. 9 at 17:09. Continued …

Storm affects 54 provinces in Thailand

A powerful storm system is wreaking havoc across 54 provinces in Thailand, with the Meteorological Department issuing a warning today.

The southern region is experiencing the most rainfall, covering 80% of the area. Bangkok is also affected, with residents urged to be vigilant for sudden flooding and forest runoff. Continued …

Controversy Erupts Over Thai Taxi Group’s Guidelines for Female Passengers

The “Thai Taxi Association” recently issued a set of guidelines titled “5 Don’ts for Women in Taxis” aimed at ensuring passenger safety, sparking intense online debate.

The post, originally shared on their Facebook page, listed the following suggestions: Continued …

Inflation up 0.88% in August

Thailand’s headline consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.88% in August from a year earlier, quickening from a 0.38% year-on-year increase in the previous month, the Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday.

The figure compared with a forecast rise of 0.61% for August in a Reuters poll. The core CPI was up 0.79% year-on-year in August. – Bangkok Post

New Thai Cabinet prioritizes economic recovery, property and tourism sectors

The newly confirmed Cabinet, featuring many Pheu Thai Party members, is focusing on economic recovery matters and pledged to reduce energy costs to ease financial burdens.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin engaged with various business sectors but concerns about potential bias make it unlikely that the property sector will receive preferential treatment. Continued …

Government economy plan: Cost-of-living cuts, fuel and electricity price adjustments

The government plans to announce initiatives to reduce living costs and boost the economy in an upcoming Cabinet meeting. Deputy Finance Ministe  Julapun Amornvivat revealed these measures would involve changes to diesel and electricity prices.

A reduction in diesel excise tax is under consideration to lower retail prices at the pump and help the economy. A potential freeze on government debt payments to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is also being discussed. This would ease EGAT’s burden, as it has been subsidizing household electricity rates since September 2021, costing around 135 billion baht. Continued …

Leading Thai fruit drink maker installs solar power plants at factories

Tipco, Thailand’s leading fruit drinks maker, has partnered with GreenYellow, a leading energy turnkey services provider in solar projects. In this partnership, GreenYellow has successfully installed solar power plants at Tipco’s factories, with an installed capacity of 2.77 Mwp.

These solar power plants are invested, installed, and currently operated by GreenYellow, which will contribute to sustainable growth by reducing Tipco’s carbon emissions by 2,028 tons per year. Continued …

Visa-free plan may see more criminal elements entering Thailand

It is accepted, even by police, that a new policy ordered by the incoming Pheu Thai government to offer visa-free access to Chinese visitors from Oct.1 will see more criminal elements from China entering the kingdom.

On Monday, senior officers with the Immigration Bureau flew to China to meet with police and security officials there to help minimize the threat from Oct. 1. Continued … 

Visa-free policy for Chinese tourists welcomed by ATTA

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has expressed a desire to see Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin serve as a tourism ambassador to boost confidence, particularly among Chinese visitors, in Thailand as a safe destination.

This comes in response to social media reports about incidents of kidnapping for ransom and organ trafficking, which have raised concerns among Chinese travelers. Continued …

Warning over new hotel regulations

New ministerial regulations allowing places of accommodation with no more than eight rooms and 30 guests to be excluded from the hotel business would lead to a 15%-20% loss of tourism revenue and an increase in safety risks, according to the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA). Continued …

Chiang Mai, Phetchabun, and Nan top people’s rainy season travel wish list

The Suan Dusit Poll agency has conducted a survey of people’s opinions on the topic of “The New Government and Tourism”, reaching out to 1,114 respondents nationwide from Aug. 28 to Sept. 1.

The pollster found that Chiang Mai province is the top preferred destination among respondents. The survey focused on people’s travel prospects during the current rainy season. Continued …

Agoda Reveals In-Flight Frustrations

Invasion of personal space, flight delays, and loud passengers are most likely to make travelers go “insane on the plane”.

With travelers across the globe raring to take off on new adventures, digital travel platform Agoda unveils a candid exploration of the less-glamorous side of air travel. From overly chatty neighbors to lavatory hoggers, Agoda’s Travel Bugbears Survey 2023 delves into the realm of in-flight annoyances, highlighting that even the smoothest flight can have its bumps. Continued …

Hua Hin: Thailand’s ultimate beach getaway and wellness wonderland

Hua Hin – what’s that? Sounds like a Thai insult right? On the contrary, Hua Hin is a stunning seaside resort on the Gulf of Thailand, a three-hour drive from Bangkok. Originally a quiet fishing village, it transformed into a chic retreat for Bangkok residents following the 1920s, thanks to the construction of summer palaces by the Thai royal family.

Hua Hin Beach has the most perfect white sand, with high-end hotels, seafood shacks and a few makeshift bars. What’s more enchanting is that it is never crowded and the sea is always warm and calm; so perfect for swimming. Continued …

Thailand: A Preferred Destination for Remote Work

Thailand has increasingly become a preferred destination for remote work due to affordable cost of living, variety of working spaces and facilities, high quality internet connection, friendly locals, delicious food, excellent healthcare, and diverse and rich culture.

As well as the kingdom’s 5F soft-power pillars of “food, fight, fashion, film, and festival”, Thailand offers a plethora of travel options that can be enjoyed throughout the year in the fields of health and wellness, sport, luxury travel, and gastronomy, as well as sustainable and responsible tourism experiences – to provide remote workers the work-life balance they are looking for. Continued …

September events in Prachuap Khiri Khan

Events taking place in September in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province include:

  • Let’s Go Wow: Explore Thap Sakae, Sept. 1-10, 2023, at Thap Sakae beach
  • Local Cycle Tourism, Sept. 9-10, starting from Rajabhakti Park to Tha Sa Det, Thanarat Camp, Pranburi district
  • Blessing the Fleet Ceremony, Sept. 24, at the Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine, Hua Hin
  • Love(Protect) Maenam Pran event, Sept. 24, at the Sirinat Rajini Mangrove Ecosystem Study Center, Pranburi district

Global sugar prices to surge as drought-hit India set to ban exports

The Commerce Ministry has aired concerns about a surge in global sugar prices after India announced it will ban sugar exports for the upcoming production season starting in October. India, one of the world’s top sugar producers and exporters, is grappling with drought, which has led to a drop in sugar production. Continued …

ASEAN in the spotlight

Indonesia’s chairmanship of ASEAN culminates this week with a series of summits that seek to establish the group’s central role in setting the future of the Indo-Pacific region. Not a moment too soon, given the escalating tensions, not only caused by the rivalry between the United States and China but also between Southeast Asian member states and China caused by overlapping territorial claims in the South China Sea. Continued …

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.

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

 

bangkok, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-Sept 4

Today’s news: Heavy rain for all of Thailand/Herbal solutions to PM2.5 diseases/Droness Launched At Wing 3/Bangkok to Songkhla Bus CrashesDrought forcing elephants in search of food and water/Calls for LGBTQ retirement hub/The untouchable tax/Thailand’s smaller cities’ economic role/Expand welfare policies to boost economy/Thai family-run businesses thriving/Thai exporters warned to prepare/South Korean EV manufacturers eye Thailand/Chinese EV producer to set up Thai plant/Prachuap Khiri Khan tourism/Thai immigration policy/Small hotel operators cash in/Chonburi Sees 13 Million Tourists/Meet the mum with 10 dogs, 15 cats and 10 elephants/Candle Is Flavors Classic Thai Dishes/Sharing Experiences Or Traditions From AbroadChina’s food security is at risk/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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Warnings of heavy rain for all of Thailand

The Thai Meteorological Department has issued warnings for heavy downpours in the northern, northeastern, and central regions, as well as extremely heavy rain in parts of the eastern and southern regions.

People in these areas should be cautious of the dangers associated with heavy rain, including the possibility of sudden flooding and forest runoff, especially in hilly areas and low-lying areas. Continued … 

Herbal solutions to PM2.5 dust-related chronic diseases sought

In promising scientific research, experts are exploring the potential of three herbal plants in combating chronic diseases connected to PM2.5 dust. The focal point of this collaborative project is to address the health challenges arising from prolonged exposure to harmful PM2.5 dust particles, a pressing concern in regions affected by air pollution.

The collaborative efforts have seen researchers from Chaophraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachin Buri joining forces with experts from Mahidol University’s Faculty of Medicine at Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute in Samut Prakan. Continued …

Three Israeli-Made UAVs Launched At Wing 3

Three Israeli-made unmanned aerial vehicles were launched Saturday for deployment by the Thai air force.

Air force chief ACM Alongkorn Wannarot ceremonially launched the three Dominator XP UAVs, manufactured by Israel’s Aeronautics Defense Systems Co., at Wing 3 air base in Nakhon Sawan. Continued …

Driver Dies, 14 Injured After Bangkok to Songkhla Bus Crashes in Chumphon

A bus driver was pronounced dead at the scene, while 14 people sustained injuries, after a passenger bus from Bangkok to Hat Yai (in Songkhla) crashed in Chumphon.

The Tha Sae Police were notified of the accident after midnight on Saturday on the main southern road, Petchkasem Road, in the Had Punkrai subdistrict in Mueang Chumphon. Continued …

Drought forcing elephants to venture further in search of food and water

Acute water shortages in Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife sanctuary in Uthai Thani province have led to several elephants venturing out of the sanctuary to forage for water and food on farmland, according to Tarasak Nipanan, chief of the Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife breeding station.

He said that the sanctuary has been experiencing a water shortage since late last year and the situation appears to be worsening as a result of the El Niño, as natural water sources in the sanctuary have dried up. Continued …

Calls for LGBTQ retirement hub

Thailand has the potential to boost the pink economy by attracting international LGBTQ+ seniors who are looking for a place to retire.

Speaking at a conference on “Thailand Gets Ready to Become A Key Destination for LGBT Retirement” organized in Bangkok, Dr. Chaiwat Songsiriphan, founder and medical director of the Safe Clinic, a private human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted diseases (STD) clinic, said Thailand could be a key retiree destination for LGBTQ, as people in the country have a high tolerance of gender diversity. Continued …

VAT: The untouchable tax

Since the introduction of value-added tax (VAT) in Thailand in 1992, no government has dared to increase the rate because of concerns regarding the economic impact, the greater burden in terms of living expenses, and most importantly how politically unpopular such a move would appear.

Over the past decade, technocrats in the Finance Ministry and the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) have highlighted a growing need to raise the VAT rate from 7%, but senior officials at the ministry insist any VAT rate hike must take account of the country’s economic conditions. Continued …

Thailand’s smaller cities can help drive economic growth and reduce inequality

Thailand’s cities outside Bangkok can accelerate the country’s growth but will need to find ways to access private capital to improve urban infrastructure, a World Bank study produced with the Program Management Unit on Area-Based Development (PMU-A) and Khon Kaen University says.

Bangkok has long been the country’s hub of economic growth and productivity. But as that growth slows, cities such as Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, and Rayong could pick up the baton with investments in mass transit systems, renewable energy, and other urban infrastructure, which will be critical for Thailand’s competitiveness and ability to adapt to a changing climate, according to the study, “Thailand Urban Infrastructure Finance Assessment.” Continued …

Expand welfare policies to boost economy, experts say

The government should boost the country’s short-term economic growth by expanding state welfare policies to reduce inequalities in society, academics said at a seminar organized by the Thai Journalists’ Assn. yesterday.

Nonarit Bisonyabut, a senior academic with the Thailand Development Research Institute, said the Srettha Thavisin administration will face tough challenges as it attempts to reboot the economy following the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

Survey finds Thai family-run businesses thriving

A total of 451 companies were identified as family businesses on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), and they have a combined market capitalization of about 8 trillion baht (about US$ 226 billion), representing a 43% share of the market, a survey by the SET found.

Over the past seven years, 149 family businesses have raised over 3.08 trillion baht through initial public offerings, the survey found. Continued …

Thai exporters warned to prepare for worst as China’s economy heads downward

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) is urging Thai businesses, especially exporters, to brace themselves for the effects of China’s economic slowdown.

The warning is in response to slower-than-expected growth in China, as its real-estate sector suffers severe debt and liquidity problems. NESDC Secretary-general Danucha Pichayanan said earlier this week that though it’s too early to tell how much China’s economy will affect Thailand, it is still worth being cautious. Continued …

South Korean EV manufacturers preparing to plug into Thailand

Manufacturers of electric vehicles (EV) from South Korea have expressed interest in investing in Thailand for the manufacturing of small EVs, motorcycle EVs, and EVs for agriculture, according to the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI).

About 20 South Korean businesses from the Korea Smart E-Mobility Assn. (KEMA) and Kang Jong-man, mayor of Yeonggwang-gun, recently met with BOI representatives to discuss EV investment in Thailand, BOI Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said. Continued …

Chinese EV producer to set up Thai plant

Omoda & Jaecoo International Co., a subsidiary of China’s state-owned automobile manufacturer Chery International, plans to apply for Board of Investment (BoI) privileges to set up an electric vehicle (EV) production base in Thailand.

The company will disclose investment and business plans in a couple of months, said Qi Jie, Thailand national director at Omoda & Jaecoo International. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan sees over 6.5 million visitors

Prachuap Khiri Khan has witnessed growth in its tourism sector, according to data released by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

The recently released data shows revenue generation of over 23.8 billion baht from January to July 2023 – a 27.9% increase from the same period in 2022. Continued …

Thai immigration policy: shape of things to come

New Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has specified that immigration reform will be a priority in the new government. Although Thailand in 2023 has already attracted over 17 million foreign visitors, it will need many more if the aim to boost tourism revenue to US$100 billion by the end of 2024.

Entry policy in recent years has been set by the Cabinet and senior ministers, with the immigration police bureau playing an enforcer rather than a policy-maker role. Continued …

Small hotel operators cash in as tourism industry starts reviving

The first seven months of this year have seen more than 500 new entities emerge in Thailand’s hotel industry, mostly small companies with a registered capital of up to 5 million baht.

This surge in small operators indicates an economic recovery and revival of Thailand’s tourism industry, helped by supportive legislation for small enterprises. Continued …

Chonburi Sees 13 Million Tourists from January to August

Chonburi received more than 13 million tourists from January to August, and saw spending of over 119 billion baht, the Chonburi Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports reported on Friday.

Ampai Sakdanukuljit Sliwinski, a Tourism and Sports official, provided an overview of tourism in Chonburi for the first seven months of the year, from Jan. 1 to Aug. 23. Continued …

Meet the mum-of-five who looks after 10 dogs, 15 cats and 10 elephants

Every day Katherine Connor is up at 5am getting breakfast ready… but not for her five children. They’re still fast asleep while she feeds her 10 rescue dogs, 15 cats and the family rabbit. Then she gets ready to tend to a few of her larger babies – a herd of 10 vulnerable elephants.

By the time mum has breakfast on the table for Hope, 15, Noah, 13, Aaron, 11, Ethan, nine, and Luke, eight, their chatter across the cereal and toast is punctuated by rumbles, snorts and the occasional trumpeting outside. Continued …

How A Humble Candle Is Utilized To Flavor Classic Thai Dishes

Whether you’re going with an ever-popular pad Thai recipe or fresh som tam salad, Thai food is bursting with flavor. So it’s no surprise to see Thai desserts have an equally powerful sense of taste.

The interesting twist is that some of the flavors don’t come from the ingredients inside the dish but are instead absorbed from the air. That’s right, we’re talking about the culinary incense known as tian op, otherwise known as the Thai dessert candle. Continued …

People Are Sharing Experiences Or Traditions From Abroad They Wish They Could Adopt Back Home

Whenever you visit a new place, there are likely to be aspects of daily life there that feel totally new. And personally, I love discovering international habits or customs I wish I could adopt back home. So we asked, “What did you experience in another country that you wish you could make a part of your regular life?” Here’s what people said. Continued …

China’s food security is at risk due to climate change

Over the past four decades, China has made significant achievements in maintaining food security through institutional reforms, technological progress and increased investment in public agricultural infrastructure. Continued …

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.

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

 

bangkok, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-Sept 2

Today’s news: Weekend of downpours/New income requirements for Norwegians/Foreign Resident Quota Set/Is the ‘land bridge’ project worth the cost?/Digital handout scheme/Wage increase likely early next year/Motorcycle outlook rosy/Thapanee Kiatphaiboon begins as TAT governor/Thailand’s responsible tourism project/Thailand’s Visa-Free Travel plan/Free visa plan to add 700,000 Chinese/In Love with Thai Food/5 Thai delights/Bangkok restaurant serves modern Thai food/Typhoon Saola makes China landfall/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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Flash floods and rough seas post danger during weekend of downpours

Heavy to very heavy rains will hit 46 provinces, including metropolitan Bangkok, today and tomorrow, the Meteorological Department forecast.

The downpours will be brought by the strong monsoon trough lying across the north, northeast and central regions, and a strong southwest monsoon spanning the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, the department said. Continued …

New income documentation requirements for Norwegian expats

The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Bangkok and consulates in Pattaya and Phuket have changed the document requirement for confirmation of annual income on a short notice.

“Norwegian citizens in Thailand may need confirmation of their income/pension from Norway in connection with the extension of a one-year visa. In this connection, they ask the embassy to confirm annual income/pension. Continued …

Foreign Resident Quota Set at Maximum of 150 Individuals in Thailand for the Year

The allocation of the number of foreign nationals and stateless persons to be residents of the Kingdom of Thailand for the year 2023 was announced in the Royal Gazette on Aug. 31. This coincided with the day General Prayut Chan-o-cha resigned from his position as prime minister.

The terms of this allocation were specified by announcements from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Interior as follows: Continued …

Is the massive ‘land bridge’ project worth the trillion-baht investment?

One of the mega projects being inherited by the new government from the Prayut administration is the land bridge, intended to facilitate the movement of cargo containers and oil from the Andaman Sea to the Gulf of Thailand and to destinations beyond Thailand, as an alternative to the busy Strait of Malacca.

The Prayut administration has painted a rosy picture of this mega project, a new alternative to the Kra Canal project, which has laid dormant for several decades. It hopes that construction of the project can commence in 2025 and be completed in four years. Continued …

Digital handout scheme could boost Thailand’s GDP by 3%

The Pheu Thai Party‘s proposed digital handout scheme, requiring around 500 billion baht, could potentially boost Thailand’s GDP growth by 3% in the next year, according to the Bank of Thailand. Sakkapop Panyanukul, the central bank‘s director of the economic and policy department, mentioned the digital handout contribution depends on the economic multiplier.

The 3% GDP projection uses a cash transfer model, but definitive forecasts await more digital handout scheme details. The program suggests a digital wallet with 10,000 baht for citizens aged 16 and above, spent locally within six months to stimulate the economy and aim for 5% GDP growth. Continued …

Wage increase likely early next year, PM Srettha says

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Friday that he expected the minimum daily wage to be increased early next year to help workers cope with the rising cost of living.

Increasing wages is a major policy platform of all the coalition parties, but his government will also consider concerns over possible higher costs for business operators, he said. Continued …

Motorcycle outlook rosy

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) expects total motorcycle production this year will exceed the target of 2.1 million units.

The rebound of the tourism industry has increased demand for motorcycles and the easing of the global semiconductor shortage means chip makers can supply a greater number to motorcycle producers, said Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman and spokesman for the FTI’s Automotive Industry Club. Continued …

Thapanee Kiatphaiboon begins her role as new TAT governor

Thapanee Kiatphaiboon today began her role as the new governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Having been with the TAT since 1999 after earning a master’s degree in science from the University of Surrey in the UK, Thapanee has held various positions within the organization, including deputy governor for tourism products and business, and most recently deputy governor for domestic marketing. Continued …

Thailand launches second edition of responsible tourism project

With the success of the The One for Nature initiative in 2020, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has unveiled The 2nd The One for Nature project in its continuous efforts to promote responsible tourism in Thailand.

The 2020 project embodied the concept of “travel with responsibility” in Thailand, and aimed to spotlight Thailand’s sustainable tourism and safeguard the nation’s abundant natural resources. Continued …

Chinese Buzz with Enthusiasm for Thailand’s Visa-Free Travel

The introduction of visa-free travel, urged by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, is primarily intended for Chinese visitors. Currently, visitors from Mainland China are visiting Thailand less than expected, and this year’s target of 5 million is likely to be missed.

According to the Department of Economic, Tourism and Sports Statistics of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, a total of 17.6 million foreign tourists entered Thailand from Jan. 1 to Aug. 27. The top five nationalities are Malaysians (2,797,462), Chinese (2,182,038), South Koreans (1,046,200), Indians (1,006,629) and Russians (914,666). Continued …

Free visa plan expected to add 700,000 Chinese guests

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates the government’s plan to issue free visas to visitors from China will add 700,000 arrivals during the high season.

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said on Friday that 350,000 to 400,000 Chinese visit Thailand per month, with the tally for the first eight months this year at 2.1 million. Continued …

How the Thai Government Made the Whole World Fall in Love with Thai Food

Food may not always be an obvious source of power. But as the substance that not only keeps us alive but also in many ways brings us meaning — ritual, community, nourishment — it should go without saying that food is a powerful force, one that has the ability to shape what we eat, what we think, who we are.

It’s understandable, then, that some would seek to harness this force. One example is gastrodiplomacy, when food is leveraged to essentially build a nation’s brand and strengthen ties with other countries. Continued …

5 Thai curry delights spice up top rankings in TasteAtlas List

Thai curry dishes stole the spotlight in this year’s “43 Curry Varieties Ranked from the Worst to the Best,” launched by the food guide website TasteAtlas. Five curry dishes from Thailand are listed in the top 10.

Last year, TasteAtlas declared the northern Thai curry dish Khao Soi as the world’s best soup in the “50 Best Soups in the World.” The foodie platform also ranked Khao Soi and other four Thai curry dishes in its list again this year. The curry dishes included in the top 10 are: Continued …

Bangkok restaurant serves modern Thai food worth its Michelin-star status

Seeking to change the perception that Thailand’s cuisine is dominated only by cheap street outlets, the Michelin-starred Le Du serves Thai food with a modern approach.

When I sit down to dinner with him on a recent visit to Bangkok, chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn says he applies international techniques to Thai ingredients, in the process whipping up dishes that “look modern, but taste authentic”. Continued …

Typhoon Saola makes landfall in Guangdong after slamming Hong Kong, Macau

Typhoon Saola made landfall in the southern Chinese province of Guangdong early today as violent winds lashed nearby Shenzhen, Hong Kong and Macau, leaving at least one dead and a trail of destruction and flooding in many areas. Continued …

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.

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