Category Archives: marijuana

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

Monday’s news-May 1

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

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Thailand’s original beach resort is 100

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

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

Final weekend to see Phetchaburi salt piles

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

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

Temperatures soar, headaches rise

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

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

Thai Expert Explains High Electricity Bills in Thailand

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

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

Annual Covid-19 booster shots planned for Thailand this year

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

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

Chumphon beauty named this year’s Miss Grand Thailand

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

More than four-legged friends

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

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

Vote buying: The engine of corruption in Thailand

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

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

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

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

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

Thai students recount dangerous escape from Sudan

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

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

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

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

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

Si Racha Badly Flooded With Some Cars Floating Away In Floodwaters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Karen villagers can return to Kaeng Krachan National Park

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

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

Thai Labor 2023 Survey: Increased Employment But Rising Debt

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

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

Wage hike pledges slammed

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

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

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

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

Thailand: Southeast Asia’s ‘weed wonderland’

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

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

All controls in place for cannabis use in Thailand: govt

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Market report predicts boom in Phuket hotel industry in next decade

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

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

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

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

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

15 Best Things to Do on Koh Tao

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

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

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

climate change, covid, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news-April 28

  • Thailand temps too hot to handle, more on the way/
  • Thailand remains second-largest exporter of of air cons as sales grow 9%/
  • ‘Endless record heat’ in Asia as highest April temperatures recorded/
  • Fears for Asia’s summer after recent ‘monster’ heatwave/
  • Thailand’s sustainability leaders offer insights on transformative trends/
  • Thai executives closely attuned to sustainability, survey finds/
  • Police building a ‘strong case’ against woman accused of serial killings by poisoning/
  • PM sounds alarm on Covid’s resurgence/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Finance minister expects Thai exports, domestic spending to rise in Q2/Government revenue exceeds target in first six months of fiscal 2023/Survey finds household debt rising/Thailand EV registrations soar in March as buyers grab generous incentives/Marijuana Emerges as Key Issue in Thai Election/
  • Tourism: Few expats will escape the new Thai tourism tax/Tighter visa rules stymie Chinese groups/Trang governor unveils Kradan development plans for ‘world’s best beach’/Thailand to seek World Heritage status for Si Thep, Phu Phra Bat, and Andaman Sea areas/First Look at Thailand’s New $157 million Zoo on Royal Land/
  • Thailand Experience: May 2023’s festivals and events in Thailand/Phuket: 7 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting/
  • International: Human activities in Asia have reduced elephant habitat by nearly two-thirds since 1700/At least 11 dead after Indonesia ferry capsizes/Asia must quit coal faster to stem worst climate woes/Australia’s oldest coal-fired power plant closed amid shift toward renewable energy/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand temps too hot to handle, more on the way

Thailand is currently in the grip of some extreme weather, with temperatures set to reach heights beyond what the human body can comfortably withstand.

The Asian country is dealing with extreme heat right now and experts have predicted that the run could continue until the end of the summer, sparking concerns for people’s welfare. Continued …

Thailand remains second-largest exporter of air cons as sales grow 9%

Thailand’s exported air conditioners worth US$7.044 billion (240 billion baht) last year, up 9% over 2022, a senior government official said on Thursday.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Trade Negotiations (DTN), said the export value of air conditioners grew 9% when compared to 2021. Thailand has maintained its rank as the second-biggest exporter of air conditioners behind China, she added. Continued …

‘Endless record heat’ in Asia as highest April temperatures recorded

Asia is experiencing weeks of “endless record heat”, with sweltering temperatures causing school closures and surges in energy use.

Record April temperatures have been recorded at monitoring stations across Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam, as well as in China and South Asia. Continued …

Fears for Asia’s summer after recent ‘monster’ heatwave

A “monster” Asian heatwave, which shattered temperature records in more than a dozen countries, is an early warning sign of “what may come if action is not taken”, scientific experts said.

Extremely high temperatures have swept across large parts of South and Southeast Asia in recent weeks, including India, China, Thailand and Laos. Ultimately, one-third of the global population suffered under crippling heat that is being driven by the climate crisis. Continued …

Thailand’s sustainability leaders offer insights on transformative trends

Thailand’s largest sustainability network, the United Nations Global Compact Network Thailand, has published its “SDGs Mega Trends 2023” report, highlighting five major trends among the sustainable development goals (SDGs) that businesses could focus on to unlock global pathways to resilience, growth and sustainability in the post Covid-19 era.

Suphachai Chearavanont, the network’s chairperson, said: “As a local network of UN Global Compact, Thailand’s chapter has prepared “SDGs Mega Trends” for four consecutive years to serve as a knowledge center and framework for sustainable development practices for business operators.” Continued …

Thai executives closely attuned to sustainability, survey finds

Thailand is one of the top three of 16 markets in terms of executives’ attentiveness to sustainable development, according to a recent survey by Google Cloud.

The survey interviewed 1,476 executives in 16 markets worldwide, including four in Asia: Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand, a report on the survey said. Continued …

Police building a ‘strong case’ against woman accused of serial killings by poisoning

Police are considering additional charges against a woman suspected of poisoning to death at least 11 people with cyanide over the past decade.

Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, 36, is likely to face three more charges in connection with the suspicious deaths linked to her, Crime Suppression Division Deputy Commander Anek Taosuparp said on Thursday. Continued …

PM sounds alarm on Covid’s resurgence

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed health authorities in major tourism destinations to closely monitor the number of Covid-19 cases in their area, as the number of new infections continues to surge after the holidays.

The order was issued after Prayut received an update on caseloads between April 16-22 from the Department of Disease Control, which showed the number of new Covid-19 infections was on the rise, said government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri. Continued … 

Finance minister expects Thai exports, domestic spending to rise in Q2

Exports should show positive growth in the second quarter of this year despite global headwinds, while domestic consumption is expected to increase as consumer spending rises, Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said on Wednesday.

Thai exports have been sluggish since the fourth quarter of 2021, and have declined for six consecutive months, according to data released by the Commerce Ministry yesterday. Weak global demand and delays in orders for electronic devices and electrical appliances – two major Thai exports – have contributed to the export decline. Rising global demand for Thai agricultural products has partially offset declines in other sectors, Arkhom said. Continued …

Government revenue exceeds target in first six months of fiscal 2023

Government revenue collection in the first six months of fiscal 2023 (October to March) surpassed the target by 8.9%, the Finance Ministry’s Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) said on Thursday.

FPO Director-general Pornchai Thiraveja said revenue collection in the first six months amounted to 1.163 trillion baht, which was 6.9% higher than the same period last year. Continued …

Survey finds household debt rising

Average household debt for workers has hit the highest level in 14 years, attributed to durable goods purchases, investment to create income and daily expenses.

However, there are signs the proportion of consumers’ unorganized loans, or borrowing from loan sharks, is beginning to decrease, according to the latest survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Continued …

Thailand EV registrations soar in March as buyers grab generous incentives

The total number of electric vehicles (EVs) registered in Thailand surged to 61,594 in March, driven by subsidies and incentives, government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said on Thursday.

EV registrations in March rose to 8,522, almost double January’s figure of 4,543, according to Land Transport Department data. Most EVs registered in March were cars with no more than seven seats (6,205), followed by motorcycles (2,263). Continued …

Marijuana Emerges as Key Issue in Thai Election

Thailand’s political party known for getting cannabis partially legalized in the kingdom, the Bhumjaithai Party, has accused rivals of playing politics with its flagship policy ahead of a May 14 election, warning that marijuana reform is non-negotiable if it is to join any government coalition.

In June of 2022, Thailand decriminalized cannabis to be cultivated and sold by licensed businesses for medicinal use only. Continued …

Few expats will escape the new Thai tourism tax

The latest notice from the Thai tourism ministry lists the exceptions to the rule that all foreigners must pay on arrival 300 baht at airports and 150 baht by land or sea. The fortunate ones are diplomats, infants under 2 years, those with work permits, single day and transit passengers, and that famous expression: foreign residents in Thailand.

The latter phrase is optimistically being interpreted by some expats to include themselves, as they see themselves as “residents” by virtue of their annual, renewable extensions of stay based on retirement or marriage or because they are learning Thai. But the contextual meaning of “resident” here is “permanent resident”, or that category of foreigner who holds a red police residency book and has no visa expiry date in his or her passport. Continued …

Tighter visa rules stymie Chinese groups

Inbound tourism operators for the Chinese market are calling for clarification of new rules for visa applications via tour groups, warning that Thailand may lose a lucrative segment, including large business travel groups to competitors.

Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, said operators want clear answers on the new visa procedures because they could hamper travel activities for tour groups and large meetings and incentive groups that consist of hundreds or thousands of applicants. Continued …

Trang governor unveils Kradan development plans for ‘world’s best beach’

Koh Kradan in Trang has been swamped by tourists this month after being named No. 1 in the Top 100 Beaches on Earth by the UK’s World Beach Guide.

In response, the governor on Wednesday announced development plans aimed at turning the tiny island into a major tourism destination. He was speaking after government agencies, local businesses and investors met to discuss ways to develop sustainable tourism with minimal impacts on Kradan’s pristine environment. Continued …

Thailand to seek World Heritage status for Si Thep, Phu Phra Bat, Andaman Sea areas

The National Committee on the Protection of World Heritage meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan agreed to propose the Andaman Sea conservation area for selection as a World Heritage site. The meeting also reviewed the progress report on the nomination of the historical park of Si Thep ancient city, and Phu Phra Bat.

The selection of the Andaman Sea (covering areas of Ranong, Phang Nga, and Phuket provinces), as a World Heritage site will boost tourism and the local economy in the future. Continued …

First Look at Thailand’s New $157 million Zoo on Royal Land

The project developer has unveiled the 3-dimensional image of Thailand’s new zoo, which will cost more than 5 billion baht and be built on 300 rai (120 acres) of royal land.

Ditto (Thailand), Siam TC Technology and Team Consulting Engineering and Management signed a construction contract with the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand on April 24 as an RSDT joint venture to build the first phase of a new zoo that will cost up to 5.354 billion baht (USD157 million). Continued …

May 2023’s festivals and events in Thailand

The month of May boasts an exciting lineup of festivals and events in Thailand, including local cultural celebrations, extravagant light-and-sound shows in all five regions nationwide, music festivals, a street art showcase, Muay Thai world championship fighting, triathlons, and a sailing regatta.

It’s also the time for the exhilarating and action-packed annual Bun Bung Fai or rocket festival, which is held in various Northeast provinces, the biggest and most famous of these being in Yasothon and Kalasin. Normally held mid-month just ahead of crop planting to ask the gods for plentiful rain and a good crop, this famous event sees the launching of home-made rockets containing anywhere from 1 kg to 120 kg of gunpowder high into the sky and is a breathtaking and very noisy spectacle that’s not-to-be-missed. Continued …

Phuket: 7 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting

Phuket is Thailand’s golden child. The idyllic island is the nation’s most popular tourist destination, known for its breathtaking beaches, incredible food, natural beauty, and welcoming culture.

But before setting off to Phuket, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling to Phuket, including: Continued …

Human activities in Asia have reduced elephant habitat by nearly two-thirds since 1700

Despite their iconic status and long association with humans, Asian elephants are one of the most endangered large mammals. Believed to number between 45,000 and 50,000 individuals worldwide, they are at risk throughout Asia due to human activities such as deforestation, mining, dam building and road construction, which have damaged numerous ecosystems. Continued …

At least 11 dead after Indonesia ferry capsizes

At least 11 people died and one was missing when a ferry capsized off the eastern coast of Indonesia’s Sumatra Island, the national search and rescue agency said on Friday. Continued …

Spring ocean temperatures are shockingly hot around the globe

Global sea surface temperatures rose sharply in March and continued to rise during much of April and oceanographers and climate scientists are watching with trepidation. Continued …

Asia must quit coal faster to stem worst climate woes

Asia must rapidly cut fossil fuel subsidies and plow more money into a clean energy transition to avoid catastrophic climate change that puts its own development at risk, according to a new report Thursday from the Asian Development Bank. Continued …

Australia’s oldest coal-fired power plant closed amid shift toward renewable energy

Australia’s most senior coal-fired power plant is set to close today, marking a significant step toward the nation’s transition to renewable energy sources. Previously notorious for its climate inaction, Australia is now preparing for a remarkable transformation in its energy sector. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-April 26

  • Power bills set to stay put amid EGAT losses/
  • Thailand offers 11 billion baht subsidy for low-income electricity bills/
  • Should you invest in solar?/
    No alcohol sales for two election-related days in May/
  • Does obesity cause herniated discs? Understanding the connection & potential risks/
  • Thai high-end condos see spike in rental demand/
  • Thai growth slashed based on weak exports/
  • Thai man fined and sentenced to prison over craft beer review/
  • Thai dentist runs London Marathon in Thai traditional dress/
  • Policeman’s Wife Held Over Cyanide Killing, Link To 6 More Deaths Probed/
  • Royal Thai Navy Acquires New Ship HTMS Chang/
  • Cathay Pacific goes ‘green’, planting 6,000 mangrove trees in Thailand/
  • Tourism: TAT expects foreign tourists in the first 4 months to surpass 8 million/Tuk-Tuk Drivers Paint Yellow Over White-Red Lines to Avoid Fines in Chiang Mai/
  • International: China pushes largest-ever expansion of nuclear arsenal/Trouble looms for Indian grain that combats climate change/Singapore executes man for coordinating cannabis delivery/’High Probability’ Japanese Spacecraft Crashed On Moon/British American Tobacco to pay over US$600M for violating US sanctions on North Korea/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Power bills set to stay put amid EGAT losses

State-run Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) says it is unable to shoulder more financial burdens until 2025, as it needs funds from electricity bills to help it deal with current losses of 136 billion baht.

This means the power tariff, which determines the rate for electricity bills, is likely to remain high for households and businesses for at least two more years in order to repay money to EGAT. Continued …

Thailand offers 11 billion baht subsidy for low-income electricity bills

The Thai government announced plans to allocate over 11 billion baht to support low-income earners with their electricity bills over the next four months, with the subsidy set to begin in May. However, the proposal needs to be reviewed and approved by the Election Commission (EC) before it becomes official.

Following yesterday’s Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha addressed the issue of high electricity bills for households and assured that the government is working on finding solutions. He requested that political parties promising to reduce power tariff rates should be aware of the complexities and reasons surrounding the issue. Continued …

Should you invest in solar?

Summer has just started but the heat is becoming unbearable. Electricity costs – at a record high of 4.72 baht per unit – are set to soar further thanks to rising fuel costs. These two factors alone are enough to increase interest in solar rooftop systems among households.

Sunlight is plentiful in Thailand, after all. And it is free. Embracing renewable energy can also help battle climate change, which is another positive factor. Continued …

No alcohol sales for two election-related days in May

In case drunkenness influences voters to tick the wrong box in Thailand‘s upcoming elections, alcohol sales will be banned nationwide for two Saturdays next month – early voting day and election day.

No alcohol may be sold from 6pm on May 6 until 6pm on May 7, as well as from 6pm on May 13 until 6pm on May 14. That’s two sober Saturday nights. Foreigners cannot vote in the election, but the alcohol ban applies to everyone living in the kingdom. Continued …

Does obesity cause herniated discs? Understanding the connection & potential risks

When one thinks of health issues related to obesity and being overweight, the most common issues that come to mind would likely be heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

However, what many people might not realize is that obesity also increases the risk of getting a herniated disc. In this article, we will explore the link between excess body weight and herniated discs, as well as the steps you can take today to reduce your risk of health complications from obesity. Continued …

Thai high-end condos see spike in rental demand

For the first time in three years, there is a surge in demand to rent luxury condominiums in Thailand, mostly from foreigners affected by the Russia-Ukraine war and long-term-stay foreigners. Rents of high-end condominiums in Bangkok have soared to 100,000 baht per month.

Sunchai Kooakachai, director and head of research and consultancy at Knight Frank Thailand, says it would be a positive sign for the condominium market if rentals start to recover as the Covid-19 crisis eases, and people start traveling overseas again. In Thailand, this is reflected in the increasing number of foreign tourists since the end of last year, as well as foreign corporate workers and long-term-stay foreign visitors. Continued …

Thai growth slashed based on weak exports

The Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) has downgraded its forecast for Thai economic growth this year to 3.6% from 3.8%, mostly based on expectations of an export contraction.

FPO Director-general Pornchai Thiraveja said on Tuesday that despite positive indicators in other sectors, especially tourism, the export outlook in United State dollar terms is expected to contract this year by 0.5% from a previous forecast of 0.4% growth. Continued …

Thai man fined and sentenced to prison over craft beer review

A court in central Thailand fined a man 150,000 baht and handed him a six-month suspended prison sentence for posting a picture and review of a craft beer on Facebook. He paid an additional 150,000 baht to be released on bail.

In 2020, Artid Sivahansaphan posted a review on the Facebook page “Daek Beer Hai Plia Kaem,” a beer review page with thousands of followers. Continued …

Thai dentist runs London Marathon in Thai traditional dress

A 33-year-old Thai dentist is now the proud owner of the Guinness World Record for “fastest marathon dressed in Thai traditional dress” after competing in the London Marathon on Sunday. Charinya “Miyu” Kanchanasevee wore a stunning gold and blue outfit complete with headdress and still managed to complete the 42.195-kilometer course in a time of 3 hours 45 minutes and 34 seconds. Charinya lit up London’s rainswept streets resplendent in a traditional costume of chadaa headdress, sbai silk shawl, chong kraben skirt, and ankle bracelet. (The Nation)

Policeman’s Wife Held Over Cyanide Killing, Link To 6 More Deaths Probed

National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittipraphat said the wife of a deputy superintendent at a Ratchaburi police station has been arrested in the cyanide poisoning death of a young woman during Songkran festival.

Deputy National Police Chief Surachate Hakparn, nicknamed Big Joke, who is leading the investigation into this case, said aside from this woman’s death there are six other mysterious deaths that occurred over the past two years, with two of them being policemen, Continued … 

Royal Thai Navy Acquires New Ship HTMS Chang

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has acquired the “HTMS Chang,” a 25,000-gross-tonnage vessel that is now the largest ship in the Thai naval fleet. The ship was assembled in China and sailed to Thailand. the HTMS Chang is designed to support amphibious operations, act as a submarine tender and will also be used in disaster relief efforts. The ship measures 210 meters in length, 28 meters in width, and has a 7-meter draft. (NNT)

Cathay Pacific goes ‘green’, planting 6,000 mangrove trees in Thailand

Cathay Pacific will be planting 20,000 mangrove trees in Southeast Asia this year to honor its commitment to plant a tree for every flight ticket purchased in the region during the “1 Ticket, 1 Tree” campaign held in November 2022. Of these, 6,000 trees will be planted in Thailand.

Fostering stronger partnerships to go “Greener Together” and leading the way toward a more sustainable future is a central theme of Cathay Pacific’s sustainability efforts. Continued …

TAT expects foreign tourists in the first 4 months to surpass 8 million

With at least 8 million foreign visitors expected in the first four months of this year, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) says the country could receive at least 25 million visitors during 2023, as targeted.

The recovery of the Thai tourism sector was visible in the large number of foreign tourists visiting many provinces of Thailand during the Songkran Festival. Continued …

Tuk-Tuk Drivers Paint Yellow Over White-Red Lines to Avoid Fines in Chiang Mai

Tuk-tuk drivers in Chiang Mai have been painting yellow on the edge of white-red footpaths to avoid paying traffic fines due to a lack of parking. However, the municipality has called for an end to this illegal practice, and the drivers have agreed to pay a fine and return the footpaths to their original state. The drivers’ reasoning was that there were not enough parking spaces in the area, and they did not want to pay traffic fines while waiting for customers. (Thai Rath)

China pushes largest-ever expansion of nuclear arsenal

China is pushing ahead with the largest-ever expansion of its nuclear arsenal, modernizing the atomic deterrent with an eye on any future conflicts with the United States, experts say. Continued …

Trouble looms for Indian grain that combats climate change

On a tiny sliver of land in southern India, the future of an ancient grain that helps combat climate change is in doubt. An ongoing tussle in Chellanam village, a suburb of the bustling city of Kochi, which has the Arabian Sea on one side and estuaries on the other, could decide the fate of the cultivation of pokkali rice. Continued …

Singapore executes man for coordinating cannabis delivery

Singapore today executed a man accused of coordinating a cannabis delivery, despite pleas for clemency from his family and protests from activists that he was convicted on weak evidence. Continued … 

‘High Probability’ Japanese Spacecraft Crashed On Moon

A Japanese company’s spacecraft apparently crashed while attempting to land on the moon Wednesday, losing contact moments before touchdown and sending flight controllers scrambling to figure out what happened. Continued …

British American Tobacco to pay over US$600M for violating US sanctions on North Korea

British American Tobacco (BAT) has agreed to pay over US$600 million to settle allegations that it sold cigarette materials to North Korea for a decade in breach of U.S. sanctions, the U.S. Justice Department announced yesterday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-April 24

  • Anzac Day dawn service, Kanchanaburi, tomorrow/
  • Beach Party/Music Festival in Cha Am Saturday/
  • Old Days festival at Bluport May 5-7/
  • Scorching Hot Weather, Rising Electricity Bills lead to Public Outcry/
  • Thailand’s heatwave nears end, rainy season looms/
  • Weatherman says current hot weather in Thailand does not qualify as a heat wave/
  • Summer storms to batter 59 provinces until Wednesday/
  • Baht all safe and sound – for now/
  • Daily Covid-19 cases in Bangkok spike/
  • Wild Brawl Involving Bombs and Firearms at Popular Pattaya Market/
  • English fighter stuns Thai legend Nong-O for One Muay Thai title
  • Thailand’s economy: Thailand’s unemployment rate drops below 1% for first time in 4 years/Thailand’s industrial confidence index for March highest in a decade/Q1 Foreign Investment Soars by 25%, $960 Million, Japan Top/Events sector set to grow by 30% amid election bump/Thailand’s fruit exports to China keep on growing/How Thailand Minister Pushed Through Asia’s First Cannabis Legalization/
  • Tourism: Raja Ferry temporarily suspends Pha Ngan–Samui route/US expat: 7 things tourists should never do when they visit Bangkok/Chiang Mai tourism hit by smog/Tour Boat with 42 Foreign Tourists Gets Stuck on a Sandbank in Phang Nga/
  • Thailand Experience: 17 Best Places To Eat And Drink In Bangkok/Thai Street Food – 5 ‘must eat’ Foods in Chinatown, Bangkok/14 elephants get apologies and a fruit feast after unique ceremony in Trang/The backpacker dish so famous they named a whole region after it/
  • International: Norway surpasses Russia in energy exports/SEAL Team 6, Army special forces rescue US diplomats in Sudan/Philippines schools can call off classes due to heat/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Beach Party/Music Festival in Cha Am Saturday

The NangLay Beach Party and Music Festival will be held at the northern end of the Cha Am beach area, near the Triple Tree Resort on Saturday, April 29.

The non-stop party features many popular artists, including Bright Vachirawit and Nanon, Billkin, Palmy, Potato, Paradox, Joey Boy, Three Man Down, Tillybirds, Paper Planes And Sarah Salola, with a light and sound system throughout the night.

Ticket sales in every 7-Eleven store or HERE.

Scorching Hot Weather, Rising Electricity Bills lead to Public Outcry

Restaurants and entertainment venues in Thailand are struggling with rising power bills and the absence of outdoor customers due to the current scorching weather. Super malls, however, are getting more customers from people looking for shade and cool air, according to Thanakorn Kuptachit, an adviser to the Thai Alcohol Business Assn.

Thanakorn revealed that the sweltering weather across Thailand is negatively affecting entertainment places, hotels, and restaurants. Continued …

Thailand’s heatwave nears end, rainy season looms

Thailand’s hot season approaches its conclusion as the rainy season is set to begin in mid-May, according to the country’s Meteorological Department. The hot season peaked on April 15, when the temperature reached a record high of 44.6°C in Tak.

Deputy Director-general Thanasit Iam-ananchai has stated that throughout the weekend daily heat indices or apparent temperatures are anticipated to surge to precarious levels in specific regions, such as Bang Na district in Bangkok, Sattahip district in Chon Buri, and Phuket. Thanasit attributes this to the proximity to the sea and increased humidity levels in these coastal areas. Continued …

Weatherman says current hot weather in Thailand does not qualify as a heat wave

The hot weather, currently affecting many parts of Thailand, is being caused by persistent low pressure cell, according to Somkuan Tonjan, head of the Central Weather Forecast subdivision of the Thai Meteorological Department.

It does not qualify as a “heat wave”, which is an extended period of hot weather relative to the expected conditions of the area at that time of year, which may be accompanied by high humidity. Continued … 

Summer storms to batter 59 provinces until Wednesday

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned that 59 provinces in the North, Northeast, Central and East will be hit by summer storms from Sunday to Wednesday.

The summer storms are possibly being caused by the influence of a moderate high-pressure system over the South China Sea, TMD said. This high-pressure system is bringing southerly and southeasterly winds to upper Thailand, which are fast gaining strength, it added. Continued …

Baht all safe and sound – for now

While the recent banking debacle in the U.S. and Europe sparked fears about a contagion spreading worldwide, the head of Thailand’s Deposit Protection Agency (DPA) said since the agency’s establishment in 2008, Thailand has never been close to requiring action to protect deposits.

DPA President Songpol Chevapanyaroj said the agency and the Bank of Thailand cooperate to prevent failures in Thailand’s banking system. Continued …

Daily Covid-19 cases in Bangkok spike

Bangkok‘s daily number of Covid-19 cases has experienced a significant spike, nearly doubling from 400 to 700 in the wake of the city’s recent Songkran festival. This has led to growing concerns among local authorities, who fear that the true extent of the situation might not yet be fully understood.

The deputy city clerk at the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Dr. Wantanee Watana, has warned that the situation may deteriorate further, with some cases potentially not having been reported to the relevant authorities, or still being in the process of being recorded. This could result in the daily number of Covid-19 cases in the Thai capital rising even further to approximately 1,000 cases per day. Continued …

Wild Brawl Involving Bombs and Firearms at Popular Pattaya Market

A teenager has sustained head injuries after being hit with a rock in a wild Pattaya market brawl that involved both gun shooting and bomb throwing.

The Pattaya City Police were notified of the incident just before dawn on Saturday morning at the popular Poethisarn Market in North Pattaya. Continued …

English fighter stuns Thai legend Nong-O for One Muay Thai title

English Muay Thai fighter Jonathan Haggerty scored a shocking TKO (technical knockout) against Thai opponent Nong-O Gaiyanghadao, aka Nong-O Hama, to capture the One bantamweight Muay Thai world title on Saturday.

One Championship (One) produced another epic evening of martial arts action at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. The competition featured Muay Thai and mixed martial arts (MMA) in various categories. Continued …

Thailand’s unemployment rate drops below 1% for first time in 4 years

Thailand’s unemployment rate at the end of February dropped below 1% for the first time in four years, which is a sign that the economy is improving, the government said.

Trisulee Trisaranakul, a deputy government spokesperson, on Sunday cited the National Statistical Office (NSO)’s report showing that the rate of unemployment at the end of February stood at 0.9%, compared to 1% at the end of last year. Continued …

Thailand’s industrial confidence index for March highest in a decade

Thailand’s Industrial Sentiment Index (TISI) was at its highest for a decade in March, boosted by a rebound in domestic demand, production increases and improved performance, with the exception of production costs, said government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri on Sunday.

The index rose to 97.8 points in March, up from 94.1 points and 96.8 points in January and February, respectively, and was the highest since January 2013, he said, adding that he expects the index to pass 100 to 106.3 in the next three months. Continued …

Q1 Foreign Investment Soars by 25%, $960 Million, Japan Top

Thosapone Dansuputra, director-general of the Business Development Department, in his capacity as the secretary of the Board of Investment of Foreign Business, revealed that in the first quarter of 2023 (January – March), a total of 174 foreign businesses were granted permission to invest in Thailand under the Foreign Business Act of 1999, with a total investment value of 33 billion baht (960 U.S. dollars).

Out of these, 56 businesses obtained investment licenses and 118 received a certificate of permission to operate their business. These businesses also created job opportunities for 1,932 Thai people. Continued …

Events sector set to grow by 30% amid election bump

Thailand’s event-management industry is expected to grow by 25%-30% to reach 16-17 billion baht this year, as both the government and private sectors are rolling out events, particularly related to election campaigns.

According to Upathum Nisitsukcharoen, president of the Event Management Assn., spending on organized event management is expected to exceed 9 billion baht in the first half this year, a 30% increase, up roughly two billion year-on-year. Continued …

Thailand’s fruit exports to China keep on growing

Thailand, already a dominant fruit exporter to China, witnessed a growth of 3.7% in 2022, generating more than 168-billion baht in revenue. The country’s thriving fruit industry found an avid market in China, which imported over 2.17 million tons of Thai fruit last year, according to a recent report from the Commerce Ministry.

A diverse assortment of Thai fruit, such as bananas, coconuts, durians, dragon fruit, and longans consistently ranked high in Chinese imports. These fruits were exported in various forms, including fresh, frozen, dried, and processed, catering to the diverse palates and culinary preferences in China. Continued …

How Thailand Minister Pushed Through Asia’s First Cannabis Legalization

Until last summer, Thailand had some of the world’s harshest drug laws, with possession of cannabis then punishable by up to 15 years in prison. But on June 9, marijuana was decriminalized and a resurgent cannabis culture has seen dispensaries popping up across the Southeast Asian nation of 70 million.

The move was the brainchild of Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand’s deputy prime minister and Health minister, whose Bhumjaithai Party is today the junior partner in a military-backed ruling coalition. Anutin’s pitch was that legalizing cannabis could reduce prison overcrowding — more than 80% of inmates in Thai prisons were incarcerated on drug-related charges — while spurring a hemp industry to alleviate rural poverty. The Thai cannabis market is now projected to reach $9.6 billion by 2030. Continued …

Raja Ferry temporarily suspends Pha Ngan–Samui route

Raja Ferry Port Co. has suspended all ferry services between Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Samui in Surat Thani province in southern Thailand from Sunday–Wednesday (April 23-25).

The company did not cite a reason for the suspension. Last week, a ferry on the Raja Ferry’s Koh Samui–mainland route sank at Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani province. – Thetahiger.com

US expat: 7 things tourists should never do when they visit Bangkok

I moved to Bangkok from Brooklyn in 2013 to take on a job at a branding agency. After that job finished, my wife and I decided to stay because of the people. Thailand has one of the most welcoming cultures in the world.

Bangkok was the world’s most-visited city from 2016 to 2019, according to Mastercard’s Global Destination Index, an annual report that ranks and consolidates tourism data in 200 cities. In 2019, more than 22 million tourists spent at least one night in Bangkok. Continued …

Chiang Mai tourism hit by smog

Severe haze pollution has not only posed a health hazard to residents in Chiang Mai, but also dealt a blow to its tourism.

Concerned parties have urged the government to come up with long-term measures to deal with the problem, including pushing for the passage of a “clean air” bill pending deliberation in parliament. Continued …

Tour Boat with 42 Foreign Tourists Gets Stuck on a Sandbank in Phang Nga

A tour boat with 42 tourists from Phuket became stuck on a sandbank in Phang Nga. The boat was traveling from Phuket with 42 foreign tourists. They were traveling to the Hat Nopparat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi and Ao Phang Nga National Park. Boat crews and foreign tourists tried to push the boat off the bank for half an hour but failed. National Park staffers finally pushed the boat from the sandbank. There were no injuries from the incident. (Pattaya News)

17 Best Places To Eat And Drink In Bangkok

Thailand, otherwise known as The Land of Smiles, has so much to offer the world — not least of which is the country’s beautiful cuisine, which has seen an explosion of popularity in recent years. And what’s not to love?

Thai cuisine is adept at meeting the needs of various eaters; it’s easy to go gluten-free or vegetarian, and Thai cooking is notoriously dairy free. If you’ve become as consumed by Thai tastes as us, you probably hope to one day get right to the source and experience this amazing cuisine in its home country. Continued …

Thai Street Food – 5 ‘must eat’ Foods in Chinatown, Bangkok – Video 

 

14 elephants get apologies and a fruit feast after unique ceremony in Trang

Fourteen elephants were treated to a fruit buffet during a rare annual ceremony held in the southern province of Trang on Saturday.

The elephants, each with a mahout on the back, lined up along a 30-meter-long makeshift table strewn with sugarcanes, bananas, watermelons, and pineapples — all their favorite foods. Continued …

The backpacker dish so famous they named a whole region after it

It’s the dish so famous, they named a whole region after it. Of course, by “they” we mean Western travelers making their way around Southeast Asia, those who noticed that everywhere tourists went in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam, vendors also appeared selling a dish they had come to know and love: banana pancakes.

Welcome to the Banana Pancake Trail. Welcome to the culture of banana pancakes, the wildly popular street-food snack that isn’t a pancake at all, but rather a Thai/Malaysian-style roti filled with fresh banana and topped with condensed milk. To make it, a glutinous dough is stretched gossamer-thin, fried on a hotplate before being filled, folded, flipped and served. And all this, usually, for about $1. Continued …

Norway surpasses Russia in energy exports

In a remarkable turn of events, a humble office building overlooking a fjord in Stavanger, Norway, now holds the key to European energy security. Here, the company Petoro oversees several of the continent’s largest oil and natural gas fields on Norway’s petroleum-rich continental shelf. This unassuming location has become central to Europe’s quest to keep the lights on amid rising tensions with Russia over the war in Ukraine. Continued … 

SEAL Team 6, Army special forces rescue US diplomats in Sudan

Details emerged Sunday from the dramatic evacuation of U.S. diplomats from the Sudanese capital of Khartoum, while aid workers and other Americans remained imperiled amid the raging warfare pitting rival generals. Continued … 

Philippines schools can call off classes due to heat

As several parts of the Philippines try to cope with the summer heat, the Department of Education (DepEd) said on Saturday that school authorities could call off in-person classes to safeguard the health of their students and staff. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

covid, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-April 21

  • How to find the right language school in Thailand/
  • Netflix with ads arrives: What you need to know/
  • Sales of Alcoholic Beverages During Songkran Soar by 30%/
  • Online beauty drinks, instant coffee may be laced with ecstasy, ketamine, meth/
  • Lowdown on the latest Covid variant XBB.1.16/
  • China’s Changan Auto to invest $285 million in EV facility in Thailand/
  • Thailand applies Sweden’s models to expand forest area/
  • Belgian and French Men Plunge To Their Deaths from Same Pattaya Building/
  • Amid joints and cookies, marijuana business booms in Thailand/
  • Tourism: Best budget airlines in Thailand/Tourism fears after Nok Air stops flights to Mae Hong Son/
  • Thailand Experience: Thailand summer adventures for an exciting journey/Thailand’s Som Tam voted 6th best salad in the world/
  • International: EU parliament approves world’s most sweeping cryptocurrency rules/US Gun Violence Incidents and Road Rage Shooting Cases/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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How to find the right language school in Thailand

Learning Thai in Thailand is an excellent opportunity to broaden your horizon. With all of the options available, though, it can be difficult to know how to choose the right language school in Thailand for you. This guide will help you make an informed decision to find the perfect language school that meets your needs.

Before you start looking for a language school in Thailand, it’s essential to determine your goals. What do you want out of this experience? Are you hoping to learn the basics of Thai? Or are you looking to become fluent and converse with the locals? Continued …

Netflix with ads arrives: What you need to know

What was once unthinkable is now actually happening: Netflix has rolled out a cheaper streaming plan that includes ads.

Netflix initially said that its ad-supported plan wouldn’t arrive until 2023, but the new “Basic with Ads” tier went live in the fall of 2022, much sooner than expected.

So, how much does Netflix with ads cost, and what’s included? Here’s what you need to know. Continued …

Sales of Alcoholic Beverages During Songkran Soar by 30%

Thailand saw a 30% surge in alcohol sales during the recent Songkran festival, in contrast to a declined number of drunk traffic accidents nationally during the festival year over year, according to Thanakorn Kuptachit, an adviser to the Thai Alcohol Business Assn.

Other related businesses such as restaurants, entertainment venues, hotels, and event organizers also benefited from the festivity. Continued …

Online beauty drinks, instant coffee may be laced with ecstasy, ketamine, meth

Two senior doctors warned the public on Thursday that many unlicensed brands of the beauty supplement collagen – as well as instant coffee – sold on social media contain illegal party drugs and could be fatal if consumed in large amounts.

The warnings about the liquid-collagen and instant-coffee brands – which have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration – were made by Dr. Manus Phothaporn, deputy director-general of the Medical Services Department, and Dr, Sarayut Boonchaipanitwatana, director of the Princess Mother National Institute on Drug Abuse Treatment. Continued …

Lowdown on the latest Covid variant XBB.1.16

Thailand recently reported 27 cases of the new Omicron sub-variant XBB.1.16, prompting authorities to monitor its transmission speed and the ease with which it can escape people’s ability to handle the virus in the wake of months, if not years, of vaccines and herd immunity.

The Ministry of Public Health recommends people, especially senior citizens and those with underlying conditions, get booster shots amid growing concern about the risk of new outbreaks. Here is what you need to know about this new subvariant. Continued …

China’s Changan Auto to invest $285 million in EV facility in Thailand

Chinese automaker Changan Auto will invest $285 million in a facility in Thailand to produce 100,000 electric vehicles annually, Thailand’s Board of Investment said on Thursday.

The company aims to sell the EVs in Thailand, Southeast Asia, Australia, and South Africa, said the board’s secretary-general, Narit Therdsteerasukdi. Continued …

Thailand applies Sweden’s models to expand forest area

The Thai government has emphasized the importance of tackling air pollution in the long term through measures such as afforestation and environmental protection.

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha said on April 19 that the country’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and other agencies are making efforts to expand Thailand’s forest area, based on the models of Sweden. Continued …

Belgian and French Men Plunge To Their Deaths from Same Pattaya Building

A 52-year-old Belgian man and an 81-year-old French man died by suicide by plunging from a condominium in Pattaya. The two separate accidents coincidentally happened at the same condo.

Pattaya Police and Sawang Boriboon rescuers rushed to a luxury condominium in Pattaya yesterday after receiving a report that a foreigner had jumped from the condo. Continued …

Amid joints and cookies, marijuana business booms in Thailand

Home delivery services, interactive maps with online products, relaxation spas and stores with brownies, cookies and joints.

The marijuana business has become a profitable activity in Thailand, where many benefit from a legal limbo in the absence of clear regulation of the businesses.

Since the country legalized the cultivation of marijuana for medical use – the first to do so in Southeast Asia – on June 9, Thailand has experienced a boom in cannabis dispensaries, framed by a confusing law that does not penalize consumption for recreational purposes. Continued …

Best budget airlines in Thailand

Are you planning a trip to the Land of Smiles without emptying your wallet? Look no further, as we introduce you to the best budget airlines in Thailand for 2023. These airlines offer exceptional services, competitive prices, and connectivity to various domestic and international destinations, making it easier for travelers to explore Thailand and beyond without breaking the bank.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to the best budget airlines in Thailand for 2023. Continued …

Tourism fears after Nok Air stops flights to Mae Hong Son

Mae Hog Sonl tourism authorities are developing plans to assist the province’s tourism sector after Nok Air stopped its direct flights there due to business losses.

Nok Air’s direct commercial flights to Mae Hong Son ended on Wednesday. Continued …

Thailand summer adventures for an exciting journey

Thailand’s summer, with its warm temperatures and abundant sunshine, offers an ideal setting for a wide variety of activities that cater to different interests and preferences. The season, stretching from March to June provides ample opportunities to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and lively festivals.

Whether you’re seeking adventures on pristine beaches and islands, immersing yourself in traditional customs, or escaping into the refreshing wilderness of national parks, Thailand’s summer promises a vibrant and unforgettable experience for every traveler. Continued …

Thailand’s Som Tam voted 6th best salad in the world

Northeast Thailand’s “som tam,” aka spicy papaya salad, was voted sixth best salad in the world by online food guide TasteAtlas. Another Thai dish, phla kung, also won accolades, coming in ninth place.

Thailand’s som tam was ranked higher than Cambodia’s green papaya salad, bok l’hong, voted 30th best salad. Continued …

EU parliament approves world’s most sweeping cryptocurrency rules

The European Parliament approved the world’s first comprehensive rules to regulate the “Wild West” world of cryptocurrencies on Thursday, hoping to protect investors against abuse and manipulation. Continued …

US Gun Violence Incidents and Road Rage Shooting Cases

A U.S. website recently reported that the number of gun violence deaths in the United States far exceeds that of any other high-income country. Specific data show that the gun homicide rate in the United States is 26 times that of other high-income countries, and the gun suicide rate is nearly 12 times higher. Continued …

Air quality index map

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, medical tourism, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-April 20

2 Comments

  • Uninsured driver crackdown in Prachuap Khiri Khan/
  • Government says household electricity charges will be eased/
  • 5 provinces in Thailand suffering from blazing heat/
  • Prevent your retirement visa in Thailand from expiring/
  • Health Experts Alleviate Concerns About New Covid-19 Variant/
  • Temporary Covid-19 surge may result in 10,000 daily cases/
  • Rainfall in the north to decrease air pollution/
  • Chiang Rai chokes as battle to halt huge forest fire enters fifth day/
  • Giant panda on loan to Thailand dies unexpectedly/
  • Thai-Chinese criminal matriarch has built a safe empire and fortune/
  • Industry index keeps rising amid tourism recovery/
  • First quarter new business registrations dominated by real estate, restaurants/
  • Bomb attack in southern Thailand injures 8 police officers/
  • Today is World Cannabis Day/
  • Tourism: A guide to Thailand’s E-visa/Tourism fee to take effect in September/Tourism to Koh Kradan jumps sixfold after being named best beach on earth/American Tourist Drowns in Krabi/Nok Air makes final flight to Mae Hong Son in northern Thailand/What Do Senior Tourists Need To Know About Medical Tourism?/
  • Thailand Experience: Video: Making pad Thai on Bangkok streets/The Tao of island travel/
  • International: Global rice shortage possible in 2023, prices are expected to remain high/Stampede In Yemen’s Capital Kills At Least 78/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Uninsured driver crackdown in Prachuap Khiri Khan

Officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan province have announced a crackdown on uninsured drivers following a number of accidents during the Songkran festival.

On Tuesday, officials said they recorded 47 accidents, 49 injuries and 3 deaths during the seven-day road-safety campaign of Songkran, between April 11-17. Continued …

Government says household electricity charges will be eased

The government has offered an assurance that the electricity charge for households for May through August will be 4.77 baht per unit, instead of the 5.24 baht for the January-April period.

Responding to complaints from householders about the sharp increases in their electricity bills during the hot season, a spokesperson said that the Energy Regulatory Commission has set the fuel tariff (FT) at 98.27 satang/unit for household and non-household electricity, bringing the average electricity charge at 4.77 baht/unit for May through August. Continued …

5 provinces in Thailand suffering from blazing heat

Summer is here with a bang and five provinces are sizzling with the heat index or felt temperatures as high as 51.5 degrees Celsius in some places.

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has put the heat down to a low-pressure system, which will also bring thunderstorms. TMD said the extreme heat is being brought by southerly winds across the lower Northeast, East and lower Central regions. Northwesterly and southwesterly winds across the Andaman Sea, South and the Gulf of Thailand will bring isolated thundershowers to the South. Continued … 

Prevent your retirement visa in Thailand from expiring

With the availability of a retirement visa in Thailand, it becomes possible for retirees to reside in the country long-term and enjoy all the perks it has to offer.

However, like all good things, a retirement visa comes with an expiration date, and understanding the implications of a retirement visa expiring is crucial for those planning to settle down in this Southeast Asian haven. In this guide, we will explore the options to avoid your retirement visa from expiring. Continued …

Health Experts Alleviate Concerns About New Covid-19 Variant

Thai health experts came out to soothe public concerns about a new strain of Covid-19, explaining that while it may be more transmissible than previous variants, it is still not a major concern.

Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, revealed that there may be a slight increase in COVID-19 cases following the Songkran festival in Thailand, but the rise is not expected to be significant. Continued …

Temporary Covid-19 surge may result in 10,000 daily cases

A new wave of Covid-19 infections is expected to bring daily cases to 5,000-10,000, but a swift decline in numbers is predicted thereafter, according to Dr. Nitipatana Chierakul, head of the Respiratory Disease and Tuberculosis Division at the Faculty of Medicine in Siriraj Hospital.

Dr. Nitipatana noted a rise in infections caused by the Omicron XBB.1.16 sub-variant but highlighted the majority of cases were mild. He explained that severe reactions were likely due to pre-existing health conditions. Continued …

Rainfall in the north to decrease air pollution

Air pollution in Thailand’s northern regions is expected to decrease between Friday and Monday due to rainfall, bringing relief to an area where over 2.4 million people have experienced health problems connected to smog, according to the Public Health Ministry.

Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, the public health permanent secretary, reported on Wednesday that the PM2.5 levels detected in the north ranged from 48 to 234 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³). The most hot spots were found in Chiang Mai, with 279, followed by Chiang Rai with 215, and Nan with 115. Continued …

Chiang Rai chokes as battle to halt huge forest fire enters fifth day

Volunteer firefighters are battling a raging fire that has destroyed over 1,000 rai (1.6 square kilometers) of forest on Doi In Cee mountain in Chiang Rai.

The fire has torched the mountain and choking residents of Chiang Rai city, just 10 kilometers to the west, for the past four days. The steep mountainside is hampering efforts to put out the blaze, while strong winds are fanning the flames and accelerating its spread. Continued …

Giant panda on loan to Thailand dies unexpectedly

A giant panda on long-term loan from China died in a zoo in northern Thailand on Wednesday, six months before she was due to return home, officials from the Chiang Mai Zoo said.

The cause of Lin Hui’s death was not immediately clear, but she appeared to have become ill Tuesday morning, and her nose was seen bleeding when she lay down after a meal, said Wutthichai Muangmun, the zoo director. Continued…

Thai-Chinese criminal matriarch has built a safe empire and fortune

Amid a sharp rise in crime linked to Chinese nationals in Thailand, with almost daily reports of abductions or dramatic cases, the country’s favorite policeman, “Big Joke” or Gen. Surachate Hakparn, has warned that an end must be brought about to the movement of shady and corrupt Chinese criminal elements in Thailand who for the last two decades have been settling here as they take flight from stronger law and order measures imposed by Beijing.

The deputy national police chief also highlighted the case of a Chinese woman who arrived here 35 years ago and set up an extensive transnational criminal empire engaged in providing surrogate Thai children to Chinese nationals. He outlined how the woman has amassed a fortune of billions of baht, which Thai authorities cannot reach as she, in a move which Surachate is convinced must have been planned from the outset, made sure all the assets were tied up in bona fide business concerns owned by her three Thai children. Continued …

Industry index keeps rising amid tourism recovery

The Thailand Industry Sentiment Index (TISI) continued to rise in March to 97.8 points, the highest in 10 months, thanks to the tourism recovery and farmers’ greater purchasing power, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

Improving tourism boosted demand for goods and services, while higher agricultural prices brought more revenue to farmers in many regions, said Wiwat Hemmondharop, vice chairman of the FTI. Continued …

First quarter new business registrations dominated by real estate, restaurants

Restaurants, real estate, and construction businesses saw an upswing in new registrations in the first quarter, pointing to Thailand’s steady economic recovery.

There were 26,182 new business registrations, an increase of 17% year on year, data from the Department of Business Development released by Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit showed. Continued …

Bomb attack in southern Thailand injures 8 police officers

Eight police officers from Sai Buri Police Station in Pattani province, southern Thailand, were injured in a bomb attack while on patrol last night. Two police vehicles were damaged.

Before the incident, 11 officers went out on patrol in two pickup trucks in Sai Buri district. Assailants detonated a hidden bomb as the officers drove along the Ban Pa Thung–Bang Kao Road in Bang Khao subdistrict at 10:45pm. The assailants fled the scene. Continued …

Today is World Cannabis Day

In celebration of World Cannabis Day today, an event called Khaosad 420 is scheduled to take place on Khao San Road and Ram Buttri Road in Bangkok. The event intends to bring together cannabis users to smoke ganja together.

However, Thai netizens and the Bhum Jai Thai Party have expressed their opposition to the event and are urging the organizers to cancel it. According to a report on Channel 7, the Khaosan 420 event will also feature a cannabis parade along the roads. Continued …

A guide to Thailand’s E-visa

Planning your dream trip to the land of smiles and wondering how to obtain your visa effortlessly? Look no further, as the E-visa Thailand system is here to simplify the visa application process for you.

To make the visa application process more accessible and stress-free, the Thai government has introduced this user-friendly online platform that allows visitors to obtain their visas electronically. This easy-to-use system enables travelers to apply for their visas from the comfort of their homes, without the need to visit Thai embassies or consulates. Continued …

Tourism fee to take effect in September

The tourism and sports minister has confirmed that collection of the 300-baht tourism fee will not be delayed beyond September, while the ministry plans to ask provincial police to support the tourism police in its operations to clear out “zero-dollar tours” and illegal tours.

Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the fee will not be canceled, although the collection method of adding it to airfares was criticized by airlines as selective, claiming it violated the International Air Transport Association’s Chicago convention that prioritizes equality. Continued …

Tourism to Koh Kradan jumps sixfold after being named best beach on earth

Thailand’s Koh Kradan island in Trang province is welcoming more than 2,000 tourists per day since the island was voted “best beach on earth” by the UK website World Beach Guide last month, according to Minister of Tourism and Sports Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn.

“After Koh Kradan was ranked the best beach on earth, the number of tourists has jumped to 2,000 per day, a sixfold increase from the previous average of 300 visitors per day.” Continued …

American Tourist Drowns in Krabi

An American tourist drowned at the Viking Cave near Phi Phi Island in Krabi.

The Koh Phi Phi Police said they were notified of the incident on Tuesday (April 18th) when a 51-year-old American man drowned in front of the Viking Cave at a coral diving area near Phi Phi Lay in the Ao Nang sub-district, Mueang Krabi district. His name is being withheld pending embassy and family notification. Continued …

Nok Air makes final flight to Mae Hong Son in northern Thailand

Nok Air flew from Bangkok to Mae Hong Son Airport in northern Thailand for the final time yesterday, bidding farewell to the route for good. The province, home to the popular backpacker town Pai, is now only accessible by road since Nok Air was the only airline servicing the airport commercially.

Mae Hong Son Province Gov. Chettha Mosikarat, Tourism Authority of Thailand officials, and Mae Hong Son Airport staff welcomed 84 passengers and handed out souvenirs as they stepped off the plane yesterday. Continued …

What Do Senior Tourists Need To Know About Medical Tourism?

Many senior people from all around the world face problems getting medical care due to rising medical costs. As a result, more and more senior men and women are looking for affordable and safe alternatives to save a lot of money without putting their health under risk.

One of the most reasonable solutions is medical tourism, which is becoming more and more popular in countries such as the USA, Canada, and the countries in the European Union. The quality of the treatment will depend on the center and doctors you succeed to find. Continued …

Video: Making pad Thai on Bangkok streets

In the bustling neighborhood of Bangkok’s Chinatown, an unassuming street food vendor, nestled amid the vibrant chaos, employs an arsenal of fresh ingredients to craft a symphony of flavors in her large wok, creating mouth-watering pad Thai and other dishes for a mere $1.50. The visual poetry of Je Pon’s culinary prowess renders narration unnecessary in this captivating eight-minute video. Video …

The Tao of island travel

After a two-hour ferry ride from Koh Samui, we landed on Koh Tao, where a tremendous influx of foreign and Thai tourists was arriving at Mae Haad Pier in the late afternoon. A crew of hotel guides were shouting their customers’ names from a nearby pavilion, while a fleet of four-wheel-drive pickup trucks were stationed outside to transport visitors to their lodgings.

The rain clouds had dissipated and the sky was bright, sunlight mirrored on the turquoise ocean. The temperature steadily rose during this summer day. All entertainment venues and businesses have reopened their doors on Koh Tao and are receiving an estimated 40,000 visitors each month, showing that tourism on the island has recovered since the country’s borders were fully opened late last year. Continued …

Global rice shortage possible in 2023, prices are expected to remain high

In 2023, the global market for rice could face its biggest shortage in decades, according to industry analysts. Production of rice is dropping and the industry is expected to experience its largest deficit between supply and demand in 20 years, according to Fitch Solutions, a credit ratings agency recognized by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Continued …

Stampede In Yemen’s Capital Kills At Least 78

A crowd apparently spooked by gunfire and an electrical explosion stampeded at an event to distribute financial aid during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan in Yemen’s capital late Wednesday, killing at least 78 people and injuring at least 73 others, according to witnesses and Houthi rebel officials. Continued …

Air quality index map

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-April 18

2 Comments

  • Thailand braces for scorching summer/
  • Huge storms wreck about 1,800 houses/
  • Culprits behind dense smog choking Thailand: Corn and wildfires/
  • Fire-fueled haze shrouds both North and South/
  • Kidnapped Chinese man locked in box in Hua Hin/
  • Top 10 reasons to retire in Thailand/
  • How can I be eligible for O visa in Thailand?/
  • Long-Term Visa: Importance of Thailand’s 90-Day Reporting/
  • Report exposes a decade of corruption involving politicians in Thailand/
  • Major arrest opens Pandora’s Box of crimes/
  • Thailand Becomes Major Link in Regional EV Supply Chain/
  • Thai exporters are facing a rocky year/
  • PM Warns Public of New Narcotic Drug/
  • Former Kiwi PM commends Thailand for cannabis decriminalization/
  • Songkran: PKK officials report 44 injuries and 2 deaths on Prachuap’s roads April 11-16/44 Road Accidents in Six Days of Phuket Songkran’s Seven Days/97% of cases taken to court during Songkran involved drunk driving/
  • Covid: Myanmar Man Found Dead, Likely Infected With New Omicron Strain
  • Tourism: Thailand’s Similan Islands to close next month/Inside Thailand’s wild and secret party backpackers are desperate to find/
  • Thailand Experience: Tom Kha Gai ranked 9th in TasteAtlas’s Best Rated Soups in the World/
  • International: Bali considers tourist entry tax/Asia-Pacific state debt reaches 18-year high/200 dead, 1,800 wounded in Sudan battles/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand braces for scorching summer

Climate experts are warning that Thailand will experience hotter and drier conditions in the upcoming months as a result of El Nino weather patterns, and they caution that this is just the start of the impact of climate change.

While hot and humid weather is expected at this time of year, recent heatwaves have been more extreme than anticipated. A new high-temperature record of 45.4 degrees Celsius was measured in Tak on Saturday, breaking the previous record of 44.6 degrees Celsius in Mae Hong Son on April 28, 2016. Continued …

Huge storms wreck about 1,800 houses

Around 1,800 houses in 10 provinces were damaged after summer storms wreaked havoc across the Northeast and South over the weekend, as authorities continued the search for crew members of stricken trawlers off the coast of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

According to authorities, the storms battered 235 villages in Amnat Charoen, Surin, Chaiyaphum, Sakon Nakhon, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Roi Et, Kalasin, Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat, damaging a total of 1,781 houses across the country. Continued …

Culprits behind dense smog choking Thailand: Corn and wildfires

It was almost midnight, and the full moon appeared an eerie burnt orange above the streetlights that were clouded by the smog hanging in the air.

“Our nose burns, our throats get stuck and our eyes turn teary. It has been this way since February,” said Phattanik Masa, a resident of Mae Sai, in northern Thailand, who was wearing two face masks as she stood in line with others to offer alms to monks. Continued …

Fire-fueled haze shrouds both North and South

As wildfires continue to rage in many parts of the North and a district in southern Yala province, both parts of the country are being affected by the haze the fires produce.

Many parts of Betong, the southernmost district in Yala, were shrouded in thick haze yesterday, prompting complaints of eye irritation and respiratory problems from locals. Continued …

Kidnapped Chinese man locked in box in Hua Hin

One suspect was arrested and four others are being tracked down by police after the abduction of a wealthy Chinese man in Bangkok on Friday and payment of a 3.5-million-baht ransom.

The victim was smuggled out of a Bangkok condominiun in a plastic box and taken to Hua Hin. Continued …

Top 10 reasons to retire in Thailand

Known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and affordable cost of living, people are now considering the benefit to retire in Thailand.

According to a survey by International Living, Thailand ranks as the ninth best country to retire in 2021, based on factors such as cost of living, healthcare, climate, and lifestyle. In addition, a survey by HSBC found that Thailand ranks as the seventh most popular retirement destination for expats worldwide. Let’s deep dive into the reasons why Thailand makes for a great retirement spot. Continued … 

How can I be eligible for O visa in Thailand?

Thailand is a popular destination for expats, digital nomads, and retirees looking for a new adventure. To stay in Thailand for an extended period, a non-immigrant visa is required, with several categories to choose from.

One of these categories is the O visa, which is specifically designed for foreigners who wish to retire in Thailand. The O visa is also known as the Thai Retirement Visa and is available to applicants who are 50 years of age or older. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet several requirements that we will look into below. Continued …

Long-Term Visa: Importance of Thailand’s 90-Day Reporting

The 90-day reporting is a requirement for foreigners staying in Thailand for an extended period of time. It is a process where non-Thai nationals need to report their current residential address and other personal information to the immigration authorities every 90 days.

The 90-day reporting is mandatory for anyone who holds a long-term visa, such as a non-immigrant visa, retirement visa, marriage visa, or work permit. Failure to comply with the 90-day reporting can result in fines, deportation, or other legal consequences. Let us explore how can we seamlessly comply with Thailand’s rules and regulations and the possible consequences if we fail to do so. Continued …

Report exposes a decade of corruption involving politicians in Thailand

The Anti-Corruption Organization of Thailand (ACT) recently published a report detailing graft cases involving politicians over the past decade. The most significant financial loss, amounting to 130 billion baht, was caused by the rice-pledging scheme.

The report studied 61 cases involving a total of 68 politicians, analyzing media coverage, investigations by the National Anti-Corruption Commission, and rulings by the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions and the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases from 2012 onward. Continued …

Major arrest opens Pandora’s Box of crimes

The arrest of a 53-year-old Chinese woman with Thai citizenship and a long history of alleged criminal activities means more to police than just busting a document forgery ring.

Navaporn Phakiatsakul, who was detained on April 8 in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district, is the alleged leader of a criminal syndicate involved in fraud, surrogacy and human trafficking, according to national Deputy Police Chief Surachate Hakparn. Continued …

Thailand Becomes Major Link in Regional EV Supply Chain

As Japanese, Chinese and South Korean electrical vehicle (EV) makers race to launch production bases in Southeast Asia, Thailand and Indonesia are becoming two prime destinations for investments in EV parts and materials.

Japanese plastics maker Kuraray recently opened its first plant in Thailand, one of a growing number of EV-related investments in the kingdom, in a joint venture with local petrochemical giant PTT Global Chemical and Japanese trading house Sumitomo Corp. Continued …

Thai exporters are facing a rocky year

Prospects for Thai exports look weak this year, as a storm of economic uncertainties are expected to slow down shipping.

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) lists the likelihood of a global recession, the impact of the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, high inflation and currency fluctuations as risk factors behind sluggish international trade in 2023. Continued …

PM Warns Public of New Narcotic Drug

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has warned the Thai public of a new narcotic drug being sold on social media, while urging officials to monitor the situation closely. Anyone found guilty of sharing or posting content advertising the use of narcotics will face a prison sentence of up to two years or a 200,000 baht fine.

The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has reported that powdered ecstasy is being sold on social media. The substance is usually concealed inside sachets of other products such as electrolyte drinks, collagen drinks, or instant coffee. Continued …

Former Kiwi PM commends Thailand for cannabis decriminalization

Helen Clark, former New Zealand prime minister and a current member of the International Commission Against the Death Penalty, applauded Thailand for decriminalizing cannabis. However, she also urged the country to put an end to capital punishment, particularly for drug-related offenses.

During the Harm Reduction International Conference 2023 (HR23), Clark commended Thailand as one of the countries that has managed to successfully decriminalize cannabis, which she believes is a crucial step in ending unnecessary criminalization. Clark said. Continued …

PKK officials report 44 injuries and 2 deaths on Prachuap’s roads April 11-16

Officials have announced the number of accidents and fatalities that occurred on roads throughout the first six days in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province during Songkran.

Officials said that during the period from April 11-16, there were 42 accidents on the roads, resulting in 44 injuries and two fatalities. Continued …

44 Road Accidents in Six Days of Phuket Songkran’s Seven Days

Phuket has announced in total 44 road accidents in six days (April 11–16) in Songkran’s Seven Days of Danger road accidents campaign.

The Phuket Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) office said details on the sixth day (April 16) of the ‘Songkran’s Seven Days of Danger’ road accidents campaign. Continued …

97% of cases taken to court during Songkran involved drunk driving

A total of 8,575 drunk-driving cases represented 96.7% percent of all motoring-related cases taken to court by the police during the seven days of Songkran celebrations, seeking to have the drivers be placed on probation, according to the Department of Probation.

The courts, however, only ordered drivers in 1,910 of the cases to be placed on probation. These include 1,870 cases of drunk driving and 40 of the 270 cases of drinking while driving. Continued …

Myanmar Man Found Dead, Likely Infected With New Omicron Strain

A Myanmar man was found dead in his room in the Sathorn area after celebrating Songkran with his friends and it is suspected that he was infected with the new Omicron subvariant XBB. 1.16, a newspaper said Monday afternoon.

Police Lt. Col. Saranyapong Thongpan, an investigator at Wat Phraya Krai police station, was notified of a Myanmar man having died at a commercial building on Chan road and went there to check with a forensic doctor from Chulalongkorn Hospital and rescuers Ruamkatanyu Foundation. Continued …

Thailand’s Similan Islands to close next month

Thailand’s Similan Islands were bustling with tourists during the Songkran holidays but will soon be much quieter when the archipelago closes for a period of environmental restoration on May 19.

The marine park will be closed off to tourists during the monsoon season and will reopen again on Oct. 15, after nature has had a chance to recover from a hectic high season. Continued …

Inside Thailand’s wild and secret party backpackers are desperate to find

The island of Koh Phangan attracts thousands of backpackers every year but there is one secluded party spot they are all desperate to find.

After a boat trip or a two-hour trek through the snake-infested Thai jungle, intrepid travelers can find themselves at the Eden Garden party. Continued …

Tom Kha Gai ranked 9th in TasteAtlas’s Best Rated Soups in the World

Food guide website TasteAtlas ranked the traditional Thai dish Tom Kha Gai, or coconut chicken soup with galangal, ninth in the 100 Best Rated Soups in the World. The well-known Tom Yum soup came in at 16th.

The list was compiled based on votes from foodies around the world and published on the TasteAtlas website on March 30. Tom Kha Gai scored an impressive 4.7 out of 5, earning it a place in the top 10. Continued …

Bali considers tourist entry tax

Indonesia is considering a tourism levy for visitors to Bali, adding another potential hurdle for holidaymakers after the island cracked down on traffic and visa breaches. Continued …

Asia-Pacific state debt reaches 18-year high

The average government debt level in Asia-Pacific is at an 18-year high, with most developing economies in the region trying to stabilize it at current levels by 2027, according to recent research. Continued …

200 dead, 1,800 wounded in Sudan battles

Fighting between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed around 200 people and wounded 1,800, damaging hospitals and hampering aid after three days of urban warfare. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, medical tourism, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-April 13

  • Thousands turn out to celebrate Songkran in Hua Hin/
  • 74 deaths already during ‘Seven Deadly Days’ of Songkran Festival/
  • A special Songkran awaits in Bangkok/
  • Khao San Road locked and loaded for three days of Songkran mayhem/
  • Songkran crowds hit Krung Thep Aphiwat in first big test for new national rail hub/
  • Over two-thirds of Thais plan to consume alcohol during Songkran/
  • Nakhon Ratchasima gets highest number of Google hits for Songkran getaways/
  • Elderly citizens being abandoned as population change grips Thailand/
  • Most elderly want care from families/
  • More Thailand News: Summer storms forecast for most of Thailand this weekend/Apple making big move to Thailand as production shifts from China/Wildfire threatens Khao Yai National Park/How to find the right language school in Thailand for you/Sergeant major surrenders after allegedly hacking 55 million Thais’ data/Pepsi Thailand introduces bottles made from 100% recycled plastic/Thailand’s medical cannabis market to grow by 26%/
  • Tourism: Chiang Mai celebrates 727th anniversary/‘This week, no one’: Tourists shun choking Chiang Mai/TAT optimistic about reaching long-haul market target/Your Guide to Thailand Visas: Everything You Need to Know/Navigating healthcare in Thailand: tips for tourists and expats seeking medical care/Speedboat explosion in southern Thailand kills 1, injures 1/
  • Thailand Experience: Instagram-worthy spots for Thailand Travel 2023/Thailand’s most stunning waterfalls/
  • International: Airstrikes on Myanmar Village Feared To Have Killed 100/Asia-Pacific countries in arms race amid tensions in region/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thousands turn out to celebrate Songkran in Hua Hin

Thousands for people descended on Hua Hin on Wednesday to celebrate the Songkran festival.

People took part in water splashing and partying across town in Soi 94, Soi Bintabaht and Soi 51 from mid-mid morning and well into the night.

Earlier, Polkrit Phuangvalaisin, Hua Hin district chief, presided over the opening ceremony of the Songkran Festival in Hua Hin. Continued …

74 deaths already during ‘Seven Deadly Days’ of Songkran Festival

The Thai government has issued a warning to drivers who are traveling during the Songkran Festival, urging them to be careful on the road. This warning comes after the Thailand Road Accidents Data Center for Road Safety Culture (ThaiRSC) reported 74 fatalities and 2,322 injuries on the first day of the “Seven Deadly Days” of the Songkran Festival. As of today, on day two, there have been 37 fatal injuries and 1,771 injuries reported.

Chotnarin Kerdsom, the Interior deputy permanent secretary, stated that speeding was the primary cause of “Seven Deadly Days” accidents (35%), followed by cutting in front of other vehicles (25%). Most accidents involved motorcycles (79%), and the majority of crashes occurred on main roads (87%), followed by highways (48%). Continued … 

A special Songkran awaits in Bangkok

The Songkran celebration is very special this year. It’s the first time in four years we can enjoy the fun the festival has to offer.

Once again, Bangkok remains a popular destination for Songkran revelers from around the world, as they can find any kind of activity at many different locations. Here are some of the venues to make the summer holidays memorable. Continued …

Khao San Road locked and loaded for three days of Songkran mayhem

Khaosan Road in Bangkok was bustling again on Wednesday after three years of pandemic, as revelers turned up to celebrate the Songkran festival.

Vendors have lined the street with stalls selling food and drink, as well as water guns, plastic bags for smartphones and other equipment for water fights. Continued …

Songkran crowds hit Krung Thep Aphiwat in first big test for new national rail hub

Huge crowds were seen at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok on Wednesday as the Songkran exodus to hometowns began in earnest.

Millions of people are expected to make take trips to their family homes or tourism destinations over the long holiday for the Thai New Year. This is the first big test for the new national rail hub in Chatuchak district. Long-distance trains were switched to Krung Thep Aphiwat in January. Continued …

Over two-thirds of Thais plan to consume alcohol during Songkran

A survey by a state department showed that 71.6% of Thais planned to consume alcohol with friends and family members, which is the norm every year.

The survey by the Department of Health Service Support under the Ministry of Health polled 12,305 people nationwide. Continued …

Water wars turn nasty in north: Five injured as fists and bottles thrown

What should be the joyous occasion of Songkran – the traditional Thai new year – turned into a melee in Lampang, northern Thailand.

Following a parade, tempers got frayed when two pickups vied for road space on Thap Chang road in the downtown area. Continued …

Nakhon Ratchasima gets highest number of Google hits for Songkran getaways

Nakhon Ratchasima in the Northeast of Thailand topped the list of most-searched provinces for Songkran getaways this past week.

Yuthask Supasorn, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said an analysis of Google searches and mentions shows that Chiang Mai has dropped significantly in the search for Songkran holiday destinations. He put this down to the bad air pollution and high fine-dust levels. Continued …

Elderly citizens being abandoned as population change grips Thailand

While family gatherings are common during the Songkran festival, many elderly Thais will be spending the holiday alone, just as they do for the rest of the year. At the age of 74, Buakaew is one of them.

“I am childless and now a widow,” the elderly woman said. “Although I raised a niece, she moved to another province three or four years ago.”

Her relatives have not completely abandoned her. Her niece has kept in contact. But Buakaew knows not to bother or burden her younger relative, as they no longer live under the same roof. Continued …

Most elderly want care from families

Most surveyed elderly people expect care from their families, especially from daughters, according to a survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA).

The survey, conducted from March 14 to 17 among 1,310 people aged 60 years and older throughout the country, aimed to determine who should take care of senior citizens. It was conducted to mark National Elderly Day and the first day of the Songkran festival on April 13. Continued …

More Thailand News …

Summer storms forecast for most of Thailand this weekend

Most of Thailand, except for the south, is expected to see summer storms this weekend, which will bring rain, strong winds and hail to some areas, according to the Meteorological Department.

A moderate cold front from China is expected to cover Thailand’s northeast and the South China Sea. This will intensify the southerly and southeasterly winds and bring humidity from the Gulf and South China Sea to the northern, northeastern, central and eastern regions of Thailand, said the department. Continued …

Apple making big move to Thailand as production shifts from China

Late last year, news broke that Apple Inc. was planning to shift production from China to Thailand; it now appears that this move is becoming a reality.

According to a report, the multinational technology company based in California is currently in discussions with suppliers regarding the manufacturing of MacBooks in Thailand, as part of its strategy to expand manufacturing outside of China.

Sources close to the discussions have revealed that these suppliers already have existing manufacturing complexes in Thailand, which they use for other clients. They are now exploring the possibility of producing and assembling components and modules for MacBooks. Continued …

Wildfire threatens Khao Yai National Park

A wildfire on Khao Tabaek mountain in Nakhon Nayok province has spread to a border area of Khao Yai National Park, park chief Chaiya Huayhongthong said.

The fire, which started on the night of April 10 on the mountain in tambon Khao Phra, Muang district, has spread to nearby forest areas. Continued …

How to find the right language school in Thailand for you

Learning Thai in Thailand is an excellent opportunity to broaden your horizon. With all of the options available, though, it can be difficult to know how to choose the right language school in Thailand for you.

But don’t worry — we’ve created this guide to help you make an informed decision to find the perfect language school that meets your needs. After all, mastering a new language starts with selecting the right school. Continued …

Sergeant major surrenders after allegedly hacking 55 million Thais’ data

The sergeant major accused of hacking the personal data of 55 million Thais surrendered to police this morning. The alleged hacker, Sgt. Maj. Khemarat Boonchuay, arrived at the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) this morning with his wife for questioning. Police said the suspect remained silent and did not respond to any questions.

Khemarat was suspended by the Royal Thai Army (RTA) on Friday for being absent without leave (AWOL) since April 3. The sergeant major was issued an arrest warrant for computer crime, leading to his suspension. Continued …

Pepsi Thailand introduces bottles made from 100% recycled plastic

Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) will switch to 100% recycled plastic for its 550ml Pepsi bottles, expected to enter the market later this month, under the campaign “Appreciate Fizz: Dare to Change the World.”

PepsiCo joined forces with Chulalongkorn University and ENVICCO Co. to launch the project, “Pepsi Recycled PET Bottle Campaign.” Pepsi will be the first carbonated drink brand to use 100% recycled plastic bottles in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand’s medical cannabis market to grow by 26%

Data Bridge Market Research predicts Thailand’s medical cannabis market is expected to have a compound annual growth (CAGR) of 25.2% in the forecast period of 2028 and is expected to reach USD 67,354.01 million by 2028.

On the basis of application, the Thailand medical cannabis market is segmented into Alzheimer’s disease, appetite loss, cancer, epilepsy, autism, mental health conditions, multiple sclerosis, pain management, nausea, muscle spasms, arthritis, elevate mood, multiple sclerosis, depression and sleep disorders, anxiety and others. In 2021, the Alzheimer’s disease segment is expected to dominate the market because of increasing R&D activities.

The major players operating in this market are Tilray, Elixinol Thailand, Medical Marijuana, Extractas, Peace Naturals Project, BOL Pharma, PharmaHemp, Kiehl’s (a subsidiary of L’Oreal), Canopy Growth Corp., Aurora Cannabis, Althea Co. (a subsidiary of Althea Group Holdings), Cresco Labs, IDT Australia, MediPharm Labs, THC Thailand Group, and Aphria, among others. – thesemweekly.org

Chiang Mai celebrates 727th anniversary

Chiang Mai held a merit-making ceremony to celebrate its 727th anniversary. The event was held to pay respect to the founders: King Mangrai, King Ngam Mueang and King Ram Khamhaeng. The three kings founded the city on April 12, 1296, which is the start of the Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai, which lasts until April 15.

Video 

Nirat Pongsitthithavorn, the governor of Chiang Mai, who presided over the event, offered food to the monks, along with locals and tourists, at the Three Kings Monument in Mueang Chiang Mai district, Chiang Mai province. Continued …

‘This week, no one’: Tourists shun choking Chiang Mai

Hazardous pollution levels in northern Thailand have left the historic city of Chiang Mai choking under thick smog, with local residents worried about the impact on tourism — and their health.

Smoke from forest fires and farmers burning crop stubble has suffocated the tourist city, with the global air monitoring platform IQAir ranking it among the most polluted places in the world — above regular hotspots such as Lahore and Delhi. Continued …

TAT optimistic about reaching long-haul market target

Stronger air traffic in the summer, with a projection of more than 98,000 flights, should help each long-haul market to exceed 1 million visitors by the end of this year, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas, said 98,625 flights scheduled between April and October exceeded the flight capacity of the previous cool season. Continued …

Your Guide to Thailand Visas: Everything You Need to Know

Thailand is a popular travel destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Thailand visas, so you can make sure you have everything you need before you travel.

There are several type of visa in Thailand, depending on the purpose of your visit. The most common types of visas are: Continued …

Navigating healthcare in Thailand: tips for tourists and expats seeking medical care

Healthcare in Thailand has gained a strong reputation over the years, attracting not only tourists and expats but also medical travelers seeking high-quality and affordable treatment.

With the country’s unique combination of public and private healthcare options, navigating the system may seem daunting, especially for first-time visitors. However, with some basic understanding and preparation, accessing medical care during your stay in Thailand can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. Continued …

Speedboat explosion in southern Thailand kills 1, injures 1

An explosion on a tourist speedboat docked at a pier in Phang Nga province in southern Thailand injured two people yesterday, one of whom later passed away in the hospital.

At around 8pm, the Phang Nga Harbor office was informed of a loud noise similar to an explosion on a speedboat at Ban Thap Lamu Pier in Lam Kaen subdistrict, Thai Mueang district. Continued …

Instagram-worthy spots for Thailand Travel 2023

Thailand, the mesmerizing jewel of Southeast Asia, has long been a favorite destination for globetrotters and photographers alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine, Thailand provides endless opportunities for awe-inspiring Instagram content.

So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this sublime country. Continued …

Thailand’s most stunning waterfalls

Thailand waterfall experiences are truly captivating, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the country’s stunning natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. Thailand is home to a variety of waterfalls, each with its unique charm and appeal. These cascading falls can be found in different parts of the country, from the green jungles of the north to the beautiful beaches of the south.

Many of these falls are located within national parks or wildlife sanctuaries, playing a crucial role in supporting the plant and animal life that thrives in these habitats. Visiting a waterfall in Thailand is not only a visual delight but also a chance to enjoy the calming sounds of nature, swim in clear pools, or go on an exciting trek through the surrounding wilderness. Continued …

Airstrikes on Myanmar Village Feared To Have Killed 100

Airstrikes by Myanmar’s military on Tuesday killed as many as 100 people, including many children, who were attending a ceremony held by opponents of army rule, said a witness, a member of a local pro-democracy group and independent media. Continued …

Asia-Pacific countries in arms race amid tensions in region

In March, Japan opened a new army camp on the tropical resort island of Ishigaki – about 330km east of Taiwan – staffed with 570 soldiers and stocked with an arsenal of anti-ship and surface-to-air missiles. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

 

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-April 7

  • Bangkok hottest in Thailand on Thursday as temperature soars past 50C/
  • Songkran activities at Bluport mall/
  • Be Well Clinic to move/
  • Dispute resolution center opened in Hua Hin/
  • Six people caught allegedly trapping macaques at temple in Phetchaburi/
  • Chiang Mai issues urgent work-from-home warning as PM2.5 soars even higher/
  • Shivering fox cubs rescued from forest fire in Lampang/
  • PM2.5 in Mae Hong Son tourist town at hazardous levels/
  • Police launch home-minding service for Songkran/
  • Thailand chips away at US trade deficit with 62% increase in chip market exports/
  • With plastic-eating machines, Thai communities turn a profit fighting pollution/
  • Thousands flee into Thailand amid renewed Myanmar fighting/
  • Marijuana Gold Rush: Weed conundrum polarizes society ahead of election/How medical cannabis is changing the lives of Thai patients/Thailand’s promised cannabis bonanza disappoints as politicians trade blame/Thailand’s First Cannabis Greenhouse: Step Forward for Medical Cannabis Industry/Why ASEAN countries should not look at Thailand for legalizing medical cannabis/
  • Tourism: 5 Thai beaches appear on list of top 100 beaches in the world/High flight costs said due to strong and swift recovery in tourism/What the big oil production cuts mean to airfares/Five-point plan to bring down airfares/Thailand to accept electronic VOA applications for 17 countries/Thai medical tourism market to recover to pre-Covid level in 2023/Pattaya Police Launch City-Wide Search Targeting Overstaying Foreigners/Phuket Close to a Drought, Phuket Officials Urge Residents to Save Water/Pattaya, Navy Helping Koh Larn Cope With Water Shortage/
  • Thailand Experience: Snorkeling in Thailand: A Guide to Koh Phi Phi, Krabi & Koh Lanta/Phuket vs Bali: how to choose between the two divine islands/Rain of fire at Buddhist temple in Nan/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Bangkok hottest in Thailand on Thursday as temperature soars past 50C

Bangkok will be the hottest area of the country on Thursday, with a heat index of 50.2 degrees Centigrade (122F), according to the Thai Meteorological Department.

The capital’s southeastern Bang Na district topped the forecasted five hottest places in the country as hot season gripped Thailand. Second-hottest was Chonburi’s Laem Chabang at 49.4C, followed by Phuket (47.9C), Si Sa Ket (41.5C) and Phetchabun (40.6C). Continued …

Songkran activities at Bluport mall

Be Well Clinic to move

The management team at Hua’s Be Well Medical Center has announced big changes for their Black Mountain satellite clinic, with a move to purpose-built premises at a location on the main road, close to the water park near the Black Mountain Golf Course entrance road.

Operations at the current location, established in November 2021, will cease from today. The new premises are expected to be open in the first quarter of 2024 as part of a larger healthcare and restaurant project. Continued …

Dispute resolution center opened in Hua Hin

A Public Dispute Resolution Center at Hua Hin police station will be responsible for mediating disputes that are classified as “petty offenses.”

These include verbal disputes, minor physical assaults, and other non-criminal issues that do not require legal intervention.

Six people caught allegedly trapping macaques at temple in Phetchaburi

Police arrested six suspects and seized three pickup trucks as they were trying to trap macaque monkeys at a temple in Phetchaburi province yesterday.

Police also found one monkey, traps and 40 blue plastic bags used to contain the animals after their capture. Continued …

Chiang Mai issues urgent work-from-home warning as PM2.5 soars even higher

Government agencies in Chiang Mai were ordered to let staff work from home on Friday as levels of PM2.5 smog surged to almost unprecedented levels.

In an urgent announcement issued on Friday morning, Chiang Mai Gov. Nirat Pongsitthavorn said officials who can work from home or online without impacting public services should be allowed to do so. Continued …

Shivering fox cubs rescued from forest fire in Lampang

Three fox cubs were rescued from a blazing forest in Chae Son National Park in Chae Hom district of Lampang province on Thursday. Officials found the cubs trembling with fear while the fire was being extinguished, the national park chief, Tewan Chanprom, said. (The Nation)

PM2.5 in Mae Hong Son tourist town at hazardous levels

The tourist town of Pai in Mae Hong Son province is choking with PM2.5 ultra-fine dust at a hazardous 398 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) of air on Thursday morning following weeks of forest fires and burning of farmland, the authorities said.

The Mae Hong Son operation center for tackling forest fires and smog added that the PM2.5 level in Muang district was measured at 196 µg/m3 and at 132 µg/m3 in Mae Saring district. Continued …

Police launch home-minding service for Songkran

Householders have been invited to “Leave your home with the police” during the long Songkran holiday.

Thousands of Thais are expected to start heading home from April 12 to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year on April 13. The public holiday for the three-day festival runs until April 18 this year.

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) today announced its scheme aimed at ensuring no one breaks into people’s homes while they enjoy the long holiday break. Continued …

Thailand chips away at US trade deficit with 62% increase in chip market exports

The United States has been experiencing a growing deficit in its chipmaking trade with Asia, but the good news is that Thailand is helping to chip away at that gap.

According to U.S. Census data, U.S. imports of chips grew 17% from last year to US$4.86 billion in February, with Asia accounting for 83% of that total. Continued …

With plastic-eating machines, Thai communities turn a profit fighting pollution

I found the workshop down a narrow soi in Bangkok’s old town. Several large sacks of plastic bottle caps, carefully sorted by color, sat by the entrance. Machines filled the rest of the shed.

Small and hand-operated, the machinery was there to be fed. I pressed a green button, and hungry teeth rotated rapidly at the bottom of a clear container, rattling like an aggressive kitchen blender.

I scooped handfuls of orange and red caps into the shredder. Once inside, they danced about like popcorn, becoming ever smaller as the teeth chomped them into tiny, thin flakes. The goal was to turn the caps into something new, ensuring they would no longer head to a landfill or, worse, into the ocean. Continued …

Thousands flee into Thailand amid renewed Myanmar fighting

Thousands of people have fled across the border to Thailand amid fierce fighting between Myanmar’s armed rebel groups and the military, according to Thai officials.

Myanmar was plunged into turmoil when the military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, leading to mass protests and an armed uprising. Continued …

Weed conundrum polarizes society ahead of election

Despite the different stances political parties take when it comes to the subject of cannabis – with most objecting to its recreational use – and another potential shift in the plant’s legal status, many sellers remain unconcerned.

As the May 14 general election draws near, parties have begun publishing their policies in a bid to woo voters. The legal status of cannabis, frequently described as being in an unregulated “vacuum”, is a subject of significant public concern, however, and political parties seem keen to capitalize on this. Continued …

How medical cannabis is changing the lives of Thai patients

Before getting into the story of how medical cannabis is changing the lives of Thai patients, let’s first talk about the medical products that can be made from cannabis.

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has been increasingly recognized for its potential therapeutic properties. The following are some of the key medical products derived from cannabis. Continued …

Thailand’s promised cannabis bonanza disappoints as politicians trade blame

Thailand’s decriminalization of cannabis has delighted its fans, alarmed some health experts and has increasingly disappointed farmers who have been undercut by illegal imports, sending a promise of a new bonanza crop up in smoke.

Marijuana has also become an election football, with the opposition criticizing the ruling pro-military coalition in the run-up to May 14 polls for rushing through decriminalization last year to what they say is the detriment of society, youngsters in particular. Continued … 

Thailand’s First Cannabis Greenhouse: Step Forward for Medical Cannabis Industry

The medical cannabis industry is a rapidly growing sector of the healthcare industry. It has seen tremendous growth in the last two decades, as more and more countries have passed laws legalizing the use of the same for certain medical conditions. This has opened up new opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors who are looking to capitalize on the burgeoning market.

This medical sector offers many financial opportunities, including retail dispensaries, cultivation, processing, and delivery services. There are also opportunities to provide consulting services to help patients and businesses navigate the complex legal and regulatory environment surrounding the industry. Continued …

Why ASEAN countries should not look at Thailand for legalizing medical cannabis

Cannabis use was decriminalized in Thailand since June 2022. Yet, almost a year on, the country still lacks a comprehensive legal framework to regulate the production, distribution and consumption of cannabis products.

Amid the legal ambiguity, a fast-growing cannabis industry has emerged with significant implications for both Thailand and the broader Southeast Asia region, home to some of the world’s toughest drug laws. Continued …

5 Thai beaches appear on list of top 100 beaches in the world

The prime minister has expressed satisfaction with five of Thailand’s beaches being included among the Top 100 Beaches on Earth ranking published by the worldbeachguide.com website.

Koh Kradan in Trang province came in at number one on the list of the world’s best 100 beaches. Railay Beach in Krabi was placed on the ninth spot on the list, with Freedom Beach in Phuket ranked 18th and Laem Had Beach on Phang-nga’s Koh Yao Yai placing at the 21st spot. Ao Tanote on Surat Thani’s Koh Tao was ranked 44th. Continued …

High flight costs said due to strong and swift recovery in tourism

The Transport Ministry is pointing to the stronger-than-expected recovery in tourism for the high cost of flights, saying the surging number of international and domestic tourists created a large gap between supply and demand.

Thailand has attracted an average of 140,000 visitors a day since its reopened its borders in November 2021, Acting Transport Minister Atirat Ratanasate said on Thursday. Continued …

What the big oil production cuts mean to airfares

The recent move by the big oil majors to cut production by over one million barrels a day as a “precautionary” measure to stabilize the oil market will have a domino effect on airfares, according to industry experts.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) yesterday announced plans to lower oil production by 1.16 million barrels per day, starting next month, which has already led to a surge in oil prices. This reduction in oil production will lead to a decrease in the supply of oil, driving up the price of oil, which will ultimately impact the cost of airline operations. Continued …

Five-point plan to bring down airfares

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has ordered the Transport Ministry to proceed with a five-point plan to tackle the soaring prices of air tickets in the short and long term.

Deputy Transport Minister Atirat Ratanasate said the ministry has informed the prime minister of the measures taken and those in the pipeline to address the substantial hikes, which is due to the surge in demand after the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

Thailand to accept electronic VOA applications for 17 countries

BLS International Services on Wednesday said it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Thailand to accept electronic visa-on-arrival (EVOA) applications for 17 countries. ”This convergence of forces is expected to propel Thailand’s tourism inflow steadily, with estimated 75,000-plus applications expected for the upcoming season,” the city-based company said.

The company collaborates with more than 46 client governments, including diplomatic missions, embassies and consulates, as well as employs technology and processes that ensure data security. Continued …

Thai medical tourism market to recover to pre-Covid level in 2023

According to SCB EIC estimates, the Thai medical tourism market in 2023 is likely to recover to a higher level than in 2019 and will be valued at 2 billion baht.

The future growth of the Thai medical tourism market is fueled by a number of health megatrends. These include the entrance of the silver economy in 2021, which is driving demand for medical care and innovation in anti-aging technology. Continued …

Pattaya Police Launch City-Wide Search Targeting Overstaying Foreigners

Pattaya Police and immigration launched a city-wide search Wednesday targeting foreigners on overstay or who might have been involved in illegal activities.

About 50 law enforcement officers swept across Pattaya City at 10:30pm to deter illegal activities. Continued …

Phuket Close to a Drought, Phuket Officials Urge Residents to Save Water

Officials are urging Phuket residents to save water, as water resources are limited and Phuket could be close to a drought.

Phuket Provincial Administrative Chief officer Somprat Prabsongkram said Phuket has three major reservoirs, which are the Khlong Katha Reservoir in Chalong, Bang Ward Reservoir, and the Bang Neow Dam Reservoir. These three reservoirs will only have enough water resources to last until July without rain. Residents have to save water. Continued …

Pattaya, Navy Helping Koh Larn Cope With Water Shortage

With Koh Larn off Pattaya being among the islands facing water shortage, this seaside city’s authorities, together with the navy, are now helping to partly alleviate the crisis by transporting badly needed fresh water.

Pattaya City Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai said this popular tourist destination has two sources of fresh water, with one being what is produced by East Water Co.’s desalination plant and the other ground water, plus what the local residents have stored during the rainy season. Continued …

Snorkeling in Thailand: A Guide to Koh Phi Phi, Krabi & Koh Lanta

Thailand is a beautiful country known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. One of the must-do activities when in Thailand is snorkeling, and with its rich underwater world, there are plenty of places to do so.

We will focus on three popular destinations for snorkeling in Thailand – Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, and Koh Lanta – and provide recommendations on where to stay and eat, as well as tips to make the most of your snorkeling trip. Continued …

Phuket vs Bali: how to choose between the two divine islands

Anyone planning a trip to Southeast Asia confronts an embarrassment of riches. This magical part of the world has enough beaches, sunset spots, temples and fiery food to fill several lifetimes of travel. Yet, since we only have one, tough choices lie in store. Enter a pair of seasoned writers to make the case for their pick of two of the region’s most beloved hubs, Phuket and Bali.

For anyone who loves Phuket – as I do – it’s a magical island that instantly defies its stereotypes without making any fuss. Continued … 

Rain of fire at Buddhist temple in Nan

Water flowed and sparks flew as Nan locals performed their traditional Ched Peng ceremony at Wat Tha Lo in Phu Phiang district on Wednesday. Residents flocked to the temple to pour water on its Phra That Tha Lo stupa and offer alms to monks. As night fell, Bok Fai Dok rockets and Fai Phaniang fireworks bathed the sky and the temple beneath in fiery colors. Locals also competed to produce the most spectacular aerial show, launching 41 Bang Fai rockets. The event is held annually in the northern province for locals to celebrate and reaffirm their Buddhist faith. (The Nation)

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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

Thursday’s News-April 6

  • Thailand to hit scorching 45.8C on Wednesday/
  • Centara Hua Hin receives Traveler Review Award/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Recession fears rise as growth projections are cut, exports continue decline/Inflation forecast lowered for 2023/Panel urges rethink of power tariff/Prime Road targets 1,800MW renewable power by 2027/Forbes: 3 Thais among world’s 150 richest people/
  • Chinese businessman hires sexy girls to fulfill vow at shrine/
  • 1,000 tons of hazwaste dumped in Ayutthaya/
  • Fine dust smothers Mae Hong Son/Thailand’s thriving exotic pet trade/
  • Thailand’s cannabis future drags on in political limbo/
  • Tourism: Immigration Bureau to tighten screening of tourists entering with visa on arrival/Suvarnabhumi Prepares for 1 Million Songkran Tourists/Drunken Songkran antics spur plea for police action/Thailand’s air pollution threatens the health of residents and its tourism industry/Michelin Guide, TAT extend partnership through 2026/British tourist smashes up Bangkok 7-Eleven/
  • Thailand Experience: Next Michelin Guide edition includes unique flavors of Surat Thani and Koh Samui/Here’s Why You Should Visit Chiang Mai/
  • International: Gold prices surge as dollar weakens/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand to hit scorching 45.8C on Wednesday

Thailand’s heat index – a measure of temperature and humidity – will soar as high as 45.8 degrees Celsius (114.44 Fahrenheit) on Wednesday, according to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD).

The department forecast the hottest areas in each region as follows:

  • North: Tak province, heat index of 41C
  • Northeast: Si Sa Ket, 38.4C
  • Central: Bangkok’s Bang Na district, 45.5C
  • East: Chonburi, 45.8C
  • South: Phang Nga, 43.3C Continued …

Centara Hua Hin receives Traveler Review Award

Centara Hotels & Resorts, one of Thailand’s leading hotel operators, has announced that five Centara properties received the 2023 Traveler Review Award from Booking.com.

Awarded annually to partner hotels and resorts, the Traveler Review Awards highlight properties for their exceptional hospitality, as evidenced by Booking.com review scores left by guests after their stay. Continued …

Recession fears rise as growth projections are cut, exports continue decline

Growth prospects for the Thai economy have been downgraded as the country’s leading export body, this week, warned of a 10% decline in the opening quarter of the year with weaker demand from Western markets suffering from tightened liquidity due to concern within the banking system and rising interest rates.

The promised upturn in demand from China has also failed to materialize, with exports to that market down 7.8% in February, the ninth month in a row when output to the communist country has fallen. The situation leaves Thailand facing the rising prospect of a technical recession. Continued …

Inflation forecast lowered for 2023

The Commerce Ministry has downgraded its headline inflation outlook for this year from a range of 2%-3% to 1.7%-2.7%, in line with economic conditions and falling energy prices. Continued …

Panel urges rethink of power tariff

The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) plans to ask Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to reconsider the electricity bill calculation, believing the power tariff of 4.77 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit) could be further reduced.

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) previously announced both businesses and households would pay the same tariff rate of 4.77 baht per unit between May and August. Continued …

Prime Road targets 1,800MW renewable power by 2027

Prime Road Power, an operator of solar farms and provider of solar panel installation services, aims to increase its renewable power generation capacity to 1,800 megawatts by 2027, up from 304MW, thanks to campaigns for fossil fuel reduction to fight global warming across Asia-Pacific.

These efforts should bring bright prospects for the company’s business, including more use of solar power at industrial estates nationwide operated by the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), said Somprasong Panjalak, chairman and founder of Prime Road Power. Continued …

Forbes: 3 Thais among world’s 150 richest people

Three Thai tycoons have been ranked among the world’s richest people on the Forbes list of 2,640 world billionaires in 2023. Thailand has 28 billionaires on the list.

Dhanin Chearavanont, the senior chairman of Thailand’s largest food and agriculture conglomerate Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group, was ranked by Forbes as the 116th richest person in the world with a net worth of US$4.9 billion in 2023. Continued …

Chinese businessman hires sexy girls to fulfill vow at shrine

A successful Chinese businessman hired more than 10 sexy girls to dance at a shrine located in Kamphaeng Phet province, situated in the central region of Thailand, to fulfill a vow he had made after achieving business success. The businessman has reportedly fulfilled his vow at the same shrine four times already.

A Thai woman named Kanya-on Chanjohn shared a video featuring other Thai women dancing in front of statues. The caption on the video read “Rich, Rich, Rich!” Kanya-on later explained on social media that the performance was a vow fulfillment ceremony for the aforementioned Chinese businessman’s success. Continued …

1,000 tons of hazwaste dumped in Ayutthaya

The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has sought help from the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NED) to find out who was responsible for illegally dumping 1,000 tons of hazardous waste in Ayutthaya.

This is not the first occasion illegal waste disposals have been made in the area, and local officials suspect the same company may be responsible. Continued …

Fine dust smothers Mae Hong Son

Pai district in Mae Hong Son province, one of the best-known tourist destinations in the North, experienced the highest level of hazardous ultrafine dust in the country on Wednesday.

The highest level of PM2.5 – 356 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) – was recorded in tambon Wiang Tai, according to a daily report of air quality data from the Pollution Control Department (PCD). Continued …

Thailand’s thriving exotic pet trade

Dobby scurries frantically around a tiny dorm room at Bangkok’s Chulalongkorn University, snorting and dousing the air with a pungent smell. For the past 10 minutes, Sujitta Thanomsingha, a 22-year-old communication student, has been trying to get her hands on her pet ferret.

As Sujitta darts across her tiny dorm room, she spots Dobby’s pink nose peeking from under the bed, and this time, she is determined to catch him. Finally, and after much resistance, he gives in to Sujitta’s grasp and allows her to secure a collar around his furry yellow neck. Continued …

Thailand’s cannabis future drags on in political limbo

Shortly after cannabis was legalized in Thailand, thousands of cannabis stalls popped up along the streets of Bangkok and tourist spots, representing hopes of a boost to the nation’s economy.

Yet, nearly a year on, the promise of a new bonanza crop seems to have gone up in smoke as a legal framework has never been clearly set out, and long-promised legislation failed in February to get through parliament, leaving the country without an umbrella law to regulate its use. Continued …

Immigration Bureau to tighten screening of tourists entering with visa on arrival

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has been told to tighten screening of tourists using visa on arrival, following a gruesome murder allegedly committed by three Chinese nationals.

Royal Thai Police Commissioner Damrongsak Kittiprapas said on Wednesday that he held a meeting on Tuesday with Immigration Bureau Commissioner Pakphumpipat Sajjaphan to discuss measures for filtering out possible criminals who may attempt to enter the country using visa on arrival (VOA). Continued …

Suvarnabhumi Prepares for 1 Million Songkran Tourists

Suvarnabhumi Airport announced its readiness to serve incoming tourists during the Songkran Festival from April 11 to 17. It is estimated that a total of one million tourists will come to the Thailand airport, an average of 143,000 tourists per day.

The airport will set up a temporary outbound checkpoint at the end of row W in the departure lounge, 4th floor. The airport will also deploy more staff at the checkpoints to provide maximum efficiency for tourists. Continued …

Drunken Songkran antics spur plea for police action

More than 40 people yesterday joined hands to submit a letter to the Royal Thai Police (RTP) to strictly enforce laws about alcohol sales and sexual harassment during the Songkran festival.

The Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation (WMP), as well as various youth and development networks and city communities, urged National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittiprapas to act. Continued …

Thailand’s air pollution threatens the health of residents and its tourism industry

“Take a trip to toxic Thailand.” Hmmm, despite the smart alliteration, we can’t see that one catching on as a tourism slogan.

The air in the Land of Smiles/Grimaces has been especially foul of late – and could prove to be a double whammy, as choking smog strikes down residents and at the same time weakens the nation’s tourism industry. Continued …

Michelin Guide, TAT extend partnership through 2026

The Michelin Guide Thailand has helped to generate more than 842 million baht for the tourism economy during its first five-year contract with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) starting in 2017, according to the agency.

Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT deputy governor for marketing communications, said as food experiences are one of the top reasons listed for foreign tourists to visit Thailand, the Michelin Guide Thailand has helped emphasize the country’s strengths. Continued … 

British tourist smashes up Bangkok 7-Eleven

Thai police arrested a young British man for destroying property at a 7-Eleven convenience store in the Pathumwan district of Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday at 3am.

In a bizarre TikTok clip filmed by a European onlooker, the British tourist picks up various items inside the 7-Eleven and launches them at the door in an attempt to smash the glass. Continued …

Next Michelin Guide edition includes unique flavors of Surat Thani and Koh Samui

Surat Thani and the island of Samui in the province have made it to the seventh edition of Michelin Guide Thailand 2024, expected to be released at the end of 2023.

Michelin Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec said Surat Thani and Koh Samui have many charming and interesting things to be discovered, including natural wonders, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Continued …

Here’s Why You Should Visit Chiang Mai

If you plan on visiting Thailand soon, add Chiang Mai to the itinerary. When anyone asks us how they should spend their time in Thailand, we say they must give the country an entire month.

Bangkok is the most popular city in Southeast Asia. Similar to New York, the city attracts tourists from all over the world. The streets are full of tourists and locals, shopping malls on all the major avenues, and one of the busiest street food districts you’ll ever see. Continued … 

Gold prices surge as dollar weakens

Gold prices hit a 13-month high, touching US$2,031 per ounce as weak U.S. economic data spurred demand for the safe-haven asset amid a weakening dollar, according to analysts. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

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