Safest Cities in Thailand/Sweeping electric tariff revamp/Baht weakens/’Super El Nino’ puts government on alert
- THE IRAN WAR: Thai consumers feel the pinch/US ramps up its rhetoric on naval blockade
- ECONOMY: Trade deficit with China widens/Auto industry shows signs of recovery/EEC property market grows/Thailand’s skincare market heats up/Thailand Plans Medical Cannabis Push
- TOURISM: Visa-Free Access to 57 Countries/Exit Fee Proposed for Thais/Refund crisis as more flights canceled/Flight cancelled? Know your rights/Thai AirAsia halts nine routes/Short-haul travel searches surge
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Urban revitalization in Bangkok
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Chinese EVs far cheaper than US models/Solar sales to grid gain traction/Industries Turn Rooftops Into Solar Assets/Fossil-fuel exit talks
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students
Vilhelm International Academy launched in March 2026 and has is campus at “The Hub” in Hin Lek Fai, less than 10 minutes from the center of town. They provide mentor-led academic supervision for students studying through accredited online school programs, whether independently enrolled or through integrated programs offered at Vilhelm. This means that students follow a fixed timetable, complete coursework under supervision, and receive ongoing progress monitoring. They can do this whist studying for their GCSE’s, A-Levels, NCAA approved US courses, or any other online school they choose to use.
Unlike more traditional options, at the academy children can learn at their own pace, not being forced forward before they are ready and also not being held back by the rest of the class. When they are ready to move on they do so. By coming to the academy each day, they are able to complement their studies with activities that develop leadership skills, community service (such as the recent helmet initiative), complemented by daily sports and physical activity to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
You can visit the website for more details, or you can book an appointment to meet with the academy co-ordinator to discuss what you are looking for and explain what they can offer. There is a completely free five-day trial period that can be taken advantage of by anyone interested in seeing if the academy is the right fit for them.
Website; Email: info@vilhelminternationalacademy.com; Phone: +66 065 991 5500; Facebook; Map location.
Safest Cities in Thailand for Expats and Digital Nomads
Thailand is widely perceived as a relatively safe destination compared with many countries at similar income levels, yet risk profiles vary considerably between cities. For expats and digital nomads planning a medium to long-term stay, understanding which Thai cities offer the most predictable and manageable safety environment is critical.
This briefing reviews available crime data, safety indices, and qualitative risk factors to identify safer urban options and to clarify the main threats that internationally mobile professionals are likely to face. Continued …
Thai Energy Ministry plans sweeping tariff revamp for June bills
The Ministry of Energy is pressing ahead with a major overhaul of the entire electricity tariff structure for the first time in more than 20 years. Its plan to introduce a new tiered tariff structure is creating ripples for households using more than 400 units a month and for the business sector.
The planned reform of the overall energy price structure will be submitted to the National Energy Policy Council (NEPC) on Wednesday before being presented to the Cabinet. The new electricity tariff structure is intended to take effect in time for the June billing cycle, under the policy of “use less, pay less; use more, pay more”. Continued …
Baht weakens as war risks and foreign fund flows hit sentiment
The baht closed last week, on April 24, at a fresh two-week low of 32.51 baht per US dollar, as markets awaited the outcomes of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting and the US Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting.
Poon Panichpibool, money and capital markets strategist at Krungthai Global Markets, said Moody’s assessment of Thailand’s credit rating was an “indirect positive factor” that helped ease pressure on the baht. Continued …
‘Super El Nino’ puts government on alert
The Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry has unveiled a nationwide contingency plan to mitigate the potential impact of a looming Super El Nino, warning that hotter temperatures and below-normal rainfall could threaten crops, water supplies, and rural incomes this year.
Agriculture Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit said yesterday the ministry had instructed all agencies to adopt four key strategies – storage, replenishment, adjustment, and monitoring – to reduce risks to farmers and ensure water security. Continued …
Thai consumers feel the pinch of rising prices triggered by Iran war
The rapid increase in energy prices caused by the prolonged war in the Middle East is taking a toll on Thai consumers, who are already reeling under high household debt. The prices of crude oil and natural liquid gas have risen sharply since the US-Israel war on Iran broke out in late February.
The Thai government has been forced to intervene in the energy market, particularly diesel, which is essential for the transportation, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors, blowing a hole in its finances. The intervention has resulted in a deficit of 62 billion baht in the Oil Fuel Fund as of April 20. Continued …
US cancels envoys flight to Islamabad, ramps up its rhetoric on the naval blockade
Dramatic developments unfolded in Islamabad on Saturday as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi landed, held talks, and departed without meeting a US delegation. Soon after, US President Donald Trump canceled a planned flight by his two envoys to the Pakistani capital.
The move came a day after the United States escalated rhetoric and announced an expanded blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth also pledged aggressive action against Iranian naval forces still operating in the area. Continued …
Thai trade deficit with China widens as imports outpace exports
International trade between Thailand and China remains brisk, but the overall picture points to structural fragility as the trade deficit continues to widen. A review of data from the Information and Communication Technology Center found that Thailand-China trade totaled B1.278 trillion in the first three months of 2026, up 18.% from the same period a year earlier.
However, Thailand’s exports to China were worth B299.423 billion, up just 0.70%, while imports from China climbed to B979.16 billion, up 25.7%. This left Thailand with a B679.737 billion trade deficit with China, a 41% increase. Continued …
Auto industry shows signs of recovery as EVs and hybrids drive March growth
Thailand’s automotive industry showed fresh signs of recovery in March, as total vehicle production rose to 133,413 units and domestic sales were boosted by strong demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, according to the Federation of Thai Industries.
Surapong Paisitpattanapong, adviser to the chairman and spokesman of the FTI’s Automotive Industry Club, said March vehicle production increased by 2.7% from the same period last year and jumped 13.1% from February. Continued …
EEC property market grows on labor and industry demand
The information center of LWS Wisdom and Solutions Co. has pointed to a new picture of the property market in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), saying it is moving from growth driven by investment and infrastructure stimulus toward a housing market powered by “real demand” from the workforce and industrial sector. This has significantly changed the equation for project development and property investment in the area.
Over the past several years, the EEC has been supported by domestic and foreign investment, the expansion of industrial estates and infrastructure megaprojects, making the eastern region a key part of the country’s economic strategy. Continued …
Battle for Thailand’s skincare market heats up
The battle for Thailand’s skincare market is intensifying as local and international beauty brands race to capture consumers who are spending more on science-based, skin-health-focused products.
Thailand’s beauty industry is now worth more than 400 billion baht and is growing by an average of 6%–8% per year. Within that market, skincare has become one of the strongest growth engines, with an estimated value of 109.91 billion baht. Continued …
Thailand Plans Medical Cannabis Push as US Eases Rules
Thailand’s Public Health Ministry is advancing plans to integrate medical cannabis into the country’s health economy. This initiative aligns with recent changes in U.S. cannabis policy, as the U.S. eases restrictions on certain cannabis products.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat announced these plans on April 27, highlighting a focus on medical cannabis as a vital economic driver. The U.S. has reclassified some marijuana products under federal law, moving them from Schedule I to Schedule III, which eases research, taxation, and financing barriers. Continued …
Thailand To Limit Visa-Free Access to 57 Countries
Thailand is set to revert to its previous visa-free entry policy, reducing the number of eligible countries and territories from 93 to 57. This decision by the Tourism and Sports Ministry aims to improve visitor screening and promote high-value tourism.
The new measures replace the 60-day visa exemption introduced in July 2024, a move initiated by the former government to boost tourism. The list of eligible countries will be reinstated to its prior state, and any new additions will be evaluated individually. Continued …
Exit Fee Proposed for Thais Traveling Abroad
Thailand is planning to introduce a fee for Thai nationals traveling abroad to fund domestic tourism efforts. Announced by Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul, the fee is part of a joint initiative with the Ministry of Finance aiming to strengthen Thailand’s domestic tourism through a dedicated funding mechanism.
The proposal suggests imposing a 1,000 baht fee per outbound traveler, potentially generating about 10 billion baht annually from approximately 10 million outbound trips. This revenue could subsidize domestic travel initiatives, offering incentives like a 1,000-baht support per trip for Thai nationals within the country. Continued …
Refund crisis as more flights are canceled
The Thai Travel Agents Assn. (TTAA) is urging the government to coordinate with airlines to provide refunds covering losses for tour operators due to flight cancellations, as they have already incurred costs for hotels and transport at destinations.
Last week, the association submitted a letter to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) requesting assistance for both tour companies and travelers affected by abrupt flight cancellations. Continued …
Flight cancelled? Know your rights to up to 4,500-baht compensation
Passengers facing sudden flight cancellations or delays are being urged to understand their rights, with compensation of up to 4,500 baht available in some cases, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
Travelers can also use the SAWASDEE by AOT application to check real-time flight status and access guidance on contacting airlines and managing disruptions. Continued …
Thai AirAsia halts nine routes from Don Mueang due to fuel crisis
Thai AirAsia has revised its summer 2026 flight schedule, temporarily suspending nine international routes from Don Mueang Airport and reducing services on others, as rising jet fuel costs linked to the Middle East conflict put pressure on airline operations.
The carrier has halted services on several routes, with some suspensions running through to late October 2026. The following routes have been suspended: Continued …
Short-haul travel searches surge for Labor Day–Coronation Day getaways
Searches for short-haul travel destinations have risen sharply ahead of Thailand’s upcoming long weekend from April 30 to May 4, covering Labor Day and Coronation Day. The trend reflects growing demand for convenient, budget-conscious holidays, with Thai travelers showing stronger interest in both domestic destinations close to Bangkok and nearby international cities.
Destinations within easy driving distance of Bangkok are attracting strong interest, as travelers look for trips that are simple to organize and more flexible on cost. Rayong led domestic search growth with a 44% increase, followed by Pattaya at 40%, Chonburi at 29%, Koh Samet at 22%, and Hua Hin/Cha Am at 19%. Continued …
Urban revitalization in Bangkok: Where green spaces, culture, and smart living converge
In recent years, Bangkok has undergone a profound urban transformation that goes far beyond infrastructure upgrades or isolated development projects. Across the city, a new pattern is emerging – one where green regeneration, cultural expression, and smart urban management intersect to redefine how people experience the modern metropolis.
From large-scale ecological redevelopment to viral cultural trends rooted in tradition, Bangkok is increasingly evolving into a city where urban space is not only functional, but also experiential, adaptive, and deeply human-centered. Continued …
For the average price of a car in the US, you could buy 5 new Chinese EVs
Call it a different kind of sticker shock. The Beijing Auto Show that opened to the public this week is a showcase for how hypercompetition in China has driven new car prices in the world’s largest car market to a fraction of the level of the next-largest market, the United States.
The contrast is stark. The average new car in the US in March had a list price of $51,456 (1.67 million baht), according to Kelley Blue Book. In China, there are more than 200 battery-powered models, including hybrids, for sale at less than the equivalent of $25,000. Continued …
Homeowner solar sales to grid gain traction
The National Energy Policy Council (NEPC) will meet tomorrow to consider a plan to buy more solar power from households and businesses, with the intention of encouraging people to generate their own electricity.
According to an energy official who requested anonymity, the proposal builds on the government’s 2024 initiative that allowed the purchase of up to 90 megawatts of electricity from rooftop solar producers. Continued …
Bangkok Industries Turn Rooftops Into Solar Assets Amid Rising Power Costs
The industrial sector in Bangkok is seeing a noticeable shift as factories and warehouses begin turning their rooftops into productive financial assets through solar power installations. This change is being driven by rising electricity costs and supportive government policies, making solar energy an increasingly attractive option for businesses in Thailand’s capital and nearby areas.
One of the main reasons companies are adopting solar is to reduce electricity expenses. In areas served by the Metropolitan Electricity Authority, daytime electricity tariffs are around 4.18 baht per unit. Since solar systems generate power during the day, businesses can directly replace expensive grid electricity with their own solar energy. This leads to significant savings over time. Continued …
Nations gather for fossil-fuel exit talks
Representatives of about 50 governments meet in Colombia today for the first international talks on phasing out planet-heating fossil fuels, against a backdrop of the Iran war and a global energy crunch.
The two-day conference bypasses the United Nations climate talks and reflects a growing impatience with its failure to tackle fossil fuels, the main driver of global warming. Continued …
Chinese Tourists Held Over Korat Gold Shop Robbery
Police have arrested two Chinese tourists accused of carrying out a gold shop robbery in Nakhon Ratchasima, stealing rings worth about 300,000 baht before fleeing. The suspects were detained later the same day in Bangkok after investigators traced their getaway vehicle. The stolen items were recovered and authorities are preparing legal proceedings. Continued …
- Foreign tourists take turn showing their private parts on Phuket tuk tuk – Continued …
Man charged with attempted assassination of Trump
The man who authorities say tried to storm the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner with guns and knives was charged yesterday with the attempted assassination of US President Donald Trump, as federal authorities suggested an attack that disrupted one of Washington’s glitziest events had been planned for at least several weeks. Continued …
Australia aims to tax tech giants unless they pay news outlets
Australia unveiled draft laws today that would tax tech giants Meta, Google, and TikTok unless they voluntarily strike deals to pay local outlets for news. Traditional media companies around the world are in a battle for survival as readers increasingly consume their news on social media. Australia wants big tech companies to compensate local publishers for sharing articles that drive traffic on their platforms. Continued …
Indonesia train crash toll rises to 14
The death toll from a train collision near the Indonesian capital Jakarta has risen to 14, with another 84 injured, the train operator said today, as rescuers worked to extract survivors still trapped in the wreckage. The collision between a commuter train and a long-distance train happened late yesterday in Bekasi, just outside Jakarta. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Neck and lower back pain rank among the most widespread health concerns worldwide. Years of desk work, sports such as golf and tennis, frequent travel, or previous injuries can gradually take their toll on the spine. Left unaddressed, the discomfort can disrupt sleep, limit mobility, and diminish overall quality of life.
The Miracle of the Three Bays City Fair and Red Cross Festival will return to Prachuap Khiri Khan from April 24 to May 4, with organizers preparing a wide-ranging program of exhibitions, performances, and charity activities.
Thai motorists are paying less for diesel from today after PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. (BCP) announced a B1.20-per-liter reduction in retail diesel prices, following a decision by the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee on Sunday. The new prices took effect on today from 5 am. Petrol and gasohol prices remain unchanged.
Air pollution has reached critical levels in 10 northern provinces, the Pollution Control Department (PCD) warned yesterday, with Nan recording the worst smog, as PM2.5 dust levels nationwide exceeded safety standards in 31 provinces.
Middle East Turmoil Drives Prolonged Natural Gas Surge, High Electricity Costs for 2+ Years
Global aviation faces geopolitical turbulence
The outlook for the retail and wholesale sector looks grim, as consumer spending power is expected to decline in the coming months, alongside anticipated rising goods prices, according to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn.
Thailand’s Senate committee has proposed a tax reform plan to tackle the country’s fiscal deficit, suggesting an increase in value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%. If approved, the proposals will be submitted to the Cabinet for potential implementation.
Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Board of Investment (BOI), said Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and finance minister, led Team Thailand on a visit to Washington, D.C., in the United States from April 13–17, to attend the IMF-World Bank spring meetings, while also expanding cooperation with partner countries and leading economic organizations. Their goal was to attract investment from target companies in advanced technology industries, particularly semiconductors, which are growing rapidly as demand surges in response to AI technology.
In today’s Trade 5.0 landscape, global competition is no longer defined solely by “price”. Instead, it is driven by “trust” and “value” that buyers can genuinely experience and verify — from the origin of raw materials and production standards to the storytelling that gives each brand its identity and distinction.
Four years ago, Thailand became the Weed Wonderland of the East. You couldn’t turn a corner in Bangkok or Pattaya without seeing a big green neon cannabis leaf. In Southeast Asia, which is notorious for having some of the world’s harshest drug laws, it was a first.
The US Embassy in Bangkok has again announced that all applicants for a wide range of US nonimmigrant visas must set their social media accounts to public. The requirement is effective immediately and applies to multiple visa categories, with officials stating it is intended to support identity verification and admissibility screening under US law. Failure to comply will result in delays to visa processing.
Regional tourism operators expect domestic tourism during this low season to perform worse than last year, due to higher living costs and debt levels, unless new stimulus measures are introduced to encourage travel and provide short-term debt relief.
Pattaya Songkran Wan Lai 2026 ended on Sunday with huge crowds packing Pattaya Beach from North Pattaya to South Pattaya for the final day of celebrations.
Thailand’s Krabi Coast from NASA images
Natural gas continues to play a pivotal role in global energy systems, even as the world accelerates its transition toward cleaner alternatives. While solar, wind, and biomass are increasingly in the spotlight as part of international efforts to curb rising temperatures, natural gas is still considered a relatively cleaner fossil fuel and a key driver of economic growth.
The Thai government is introducing low-interest loan packages through four state financial institutions to support households and businesses in adopting clean energy and reducing the impact of rising fuel and electricity costs. These measures seek to address the energy crisis by improving energy efficiency and enhancing long-term energy security and sustainability.
Humanity has spent more than a century pushing life expectancy steadily upward, lifting the global average from just 32 years in 1900 to around 73 years today, thanks largely to vaccines, medical advances, and stronger public health systems. But that long-running achievement is now being shaken by the intensifying effects of global heating.
Immigration office closures during Songkran and other April public holidays are set to affect Hua Hin, Cha Am and the rest of Thailand, with foreigners being advised to plan ahead for visa extensions, 90-day reporting, and other services.
Thailand’s Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved an average electricity tariff of 3.95 baht per unit for the May-August 2026 billing cycle, up from the current 3.88 baht, after setting the fuel tariff, or Ft, at 16.23 satang per unit.
Cha Am is preparing for its Songkran celebrations, with local officials confirming a 10-day program of events that will culminate in the Wan Lai Cha-am festival on April 16-17. Nukun Pornsombunsiri recently inspected preparations for the event, with a focus on safety measures and facilities for both residents and visitors.
Thap Sakae will host the Na Hu Kwang Festival 2026 during the Songkran holiday, with organizers aiming to boost tourism and local economic activity through a two-day beachfront event centered around light installations and live entertainment.
Thailand is bracing for another day of intense heat, with the Thai Meteorological Department warning that temperatures could soar to as high as 42C in some parts of the country today.
Eight police officers in Pathum Thani have been removed following allegations they extorted a valuable gold necklace from a local couple. The woman, who runs a snooker club, reported that the incident occurred at her home on March 25. Officers allegedly demanded 200,000 baht, ultimately taking a gold necklace valued at nearly 150,000 baht.
The cancellation of the 2001 memorandum of understanding on overlapping maritime claims with Cambodia, popularly known as MoU 44, will be included in the government’s policy statement to parliament, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said yesterday.
Oil prices jumped by more than 5% today after US President Donald Trump said Washington would continue striking Iran, including energy and oil targets, over the coming weeks, while offering no firm timetable for an end to the war.
The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has assessed the latest situation and made clear that risks are now spreading from energy prices to the real economy as a whole, while cutting its 2026 outlook for Thailand again amid mounting inflationary pressure and clearer signs of stagflation.
Thailand Post plans to impose a fuel surcharge of 3 baht per item on domestic Express Mail Service (EMS) and e-CoPost services from April 16, citing higher fuel costs.
While the rationale for US President Donald Trump’s Iran war is difficult to decipher, its main beneficiary is far easier to identify: Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In February, Thailand’s economy softened, with declines in exports, tourism, and private consumption, despite growth in private investment and government spending. Headline inflation decreased, while core inflation remained stable. Key issues include geopolitical events and energy policy impacts.
Thailand’s banking sector is moving deeper into crisis-response mode as prolonged global uncertainty and rising energy prices place fresh pressure on businesses, prompting lenders to shift their role from straightforward credit providers to active supporters helping customers stay afloat.
Corruption remains a structural problem undermining Thailand’s economy and significantly pushing up business costs, according to a new nationwide survey of industry leaders.
Amid global volatility and surging energy prices, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced a major strategic adjustment to respond to signs of a slowdown among long-haul visitors, shifting greater attention to the domestic market and short-haul travelers through an approach centered on value and world-class experiences.
Authorities in Phuket are being urged to investigate after images surfaced online showing a tour boat crew allegedly dumping rubbish into the sea near Tha Chin canal in Phuket province.
Thailand’s PM2.5 crisis has reached a severe level, with fresh data today from IQAir showing air quality in Chiang Mai Municipality had worsened dramatically, pushing it up to the rank of the world’s second most polluted city.
Thailand’s battery electric vehicle (BEV) market is expected to gain significant momentum this year, with sales projected to surpass 120,000 units partially due to soaring oil prices, says the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT).
Banks and car buyers are increasingly shifting toward battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as surging oil prices, fueled by Middle East tensions, reshape Thailand’s auto market, says Ford Thailand. The trend reflects both consumer anxiety over fuel shortages and financial institutions’ growing confidence in electric mobility.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched a system trial of the On Nut waste-to-energy plant to help tackle the city’s waste problem and provide a new source of sustainable power.
NASA launched four astronauts from Florida yesterday aboard Artemis II, sending them on a high-stakes, nearly 10-day journey around the moon and back in the United States’ boldest move yet toward returning humans to the lunar surface later this decade, ahead of China’s first planned crewed landing. 
The body of a Canadian tourist has been found off the coast of Sam Roi Yot, three days after he went missing while swimming in rough sea conditions near Khao Takiab Temple.
The Chatt Hua Hin–Pranburi Pool Villa has been launched by Chatt Asset Co., featuring 78 Thai-style homes on a 43-rai site with a total investment value of more than 1 billion baht.
The Hua Hin Championship Road Race 2026 will take place on Sunday, March 1, bringing competitive and recreational cyclists to the roads around Huay Mongkol for a full day of racing and touring in the Hua Hin area.
A coordinated wave of bombings and arson attacks struck 11 PTT petrol stations across three southern Thai provinces in the early hours yesterday, causing widespread property damage but no reported casualties.
The Customs Department in Thailand is considering a significant increase in import duty rates on low-value goods. The Customs Department deems the current variable rates, averaging around 10%, insufficient to ensure fair competition with domestically produced goods. There are plans to increase the rate to up to 30% in order to establish a more equitable market.
E-commerce entrepreneurs support the Customs Department’s suggestion to raise the import duty rate on low-value goods to promote fairer competition between domestically produced goods and imported products, according to Paul Srivorakul, group chief executive of aCommerce, a Southeast Asia e-commerce enablement company.
Thailand’s experiment with cannabis liberalization is undergoing a profound and contentious recalibration. The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) is advancing a new draft ministerial regulation designed to impose stringent oversight on the sector, a decisive pivot away from the largely unregulated commercial free-for-all that emerged post-2022 and back towards a strictly medical framework.
Effective Jan. 1, the export of fishery products from 12 major Vietnamese fishing grounds to the United States has been officially suspended.
Thailand needs a new law to help it handle around 400,000 tons of electronic waste a year — including used mobile phones — by recycling the waste for valuable materials, the Pollution Control Department (PCD) said.
A biomass fuel factory in Phrae province has been found to be operating without a required health hazard license, despite ongoing complaints that pollution from the site has caused illness among dozens of nearby residents.
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group with hotels, resorts, and branded residences across 59 countries, has announced the upcoming launch of NH Hua Hin in Thailand’s royal seaside town. Minor Hotels will assume management of the hotel from Jan. 1.
The Road Safety Operation Center (RSOC) has reported 27 deaths and 174 injuries from 175 road accidents on Jan. , marking day six of the New Year road safety campaign.
Thailand’s New Year road safety crackdown has recorded nearly 4,000 cases entering the probation system over six days, with drink-driving accounting for the vast majority and Nonthaburi, Bangkok, and Samut Prakan topping the provincial rankings.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a fresh weather outlook as another wave of cold air sweeps over upper Thailand, causing temperatures to drop, especially in northern provinces. Meanwhile, strong monsoonal winds are expected to affect the south and coastal areas starting this weekend.
The Thai baht is experiencing a strong rally this week, trading between 31.00 to 31.85 to the US dollar. This strength comes amid a surge in global gold prices, prompted by the US invasion of Venezuela. The move has created a ripple effect in markets, attracting capital inflows to Thailand’s bond sector.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has set out a plan to steer the economy through the transition period before a new government takes office, saying the administration will rely on pre-approved “quick win” measures to sustain momentum and support growth toward 2% in 2026.
Thailand’s exports are expected to keep expanding in 2026, but at a more modest pace of 2%-4%, as the surge seen in 2025 fades and the sector returns to a more “normalized” growth path, the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) said.
Thailand has emerged as one of the most popular destinations for medical tourism, attracting millions of international patients every year. Known for its affordable high-quality care, internationally accredited hospitals, and world-class hospitality, Thailand offers a unique combination of healthcare excellence and tourism appeal.
Photographers at Bangkok’s Wat Arun temple have been accused of rudely shooing away tourists to photograph paying customers in rented Thai costumes, leading to social-media complaints and a response from the Tourist Police and temple officials to inspect the site and implement preventive measures for tourist safety and Thailand’s image.
The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration, or DASTA, has launched the “The Soul of Thailand” campaign, inviting visitors to experience the spirit of Thai identity through nine travel routes across nine designated areas for sustainable tourism.
Hidden Bangkok Secrets for an Unforgettable Authentic Adventure
Thailand’s industrial sector has demonstrated resilience in the face of tightening European environmental standards, with exports of carbon-intensive goods to the European Union (EU) surging by nearly 55%.
The solar energy market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period 2025-2031, driven by global commitments to decarbonization, supportive government policies, and significant cost reductions in photovoltaic (PV) technology.
What will power Southeast Asia in the coming year? 5 trends to watch
Thai year of environmental upheaval
Thailand’s top 10 cleanest coasts and rivers
Thailand to tax under-1,500-baht imported goods
Tourist quote of the day
New co-payment stimulus to help struggling eateries
Why won’t Thais taste their food before seasoning it?
Same-day delivery gains momentum
Solar energy named the world’s cheapest power source
Factories lead push to recycle plastic waste
The real ‘Dark Side’ of Thailand
TAT launches Thai curry rice championship to globalize Thai cuisine
