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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

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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

 

90-day online reporting

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

Saturday’s News-April 1

  • Red Cross Fair opens bigger and better than before/
  • Doctors issue heatstroke warning as hot season grips Thailand/
  • Inside Thailand’s 200-million-baht war on PM2.5/
  • Thai forest fires worsen pollution that’s left 2 million ill/
  • Khao Chaphlu fire now ‘under control’/
  • Chiang Mai’s severe PM2.5 pollution lands thousands in hospital/
  • National Parks Try To Help Animals Survive Bush Fires and Droughts/
  • Thai Central Bank tightens up measures to protect bank customers/
  • Hacker threatens to publish data of 55 million Thai citizens/
  • 63 Chinese religious refugees detained for overstays/
  • Swede charged for overstaying his visa by 7 years, and conning locals/
  • Thailand gets ready for Songkran with free parking, toll-fee waivers/
  • Thai cops indicted over extortion case with Taiwanese actress/
  • Thai photographer who shot Oscars on how Thailand smothers creativity/
  • Thailand’s wild, wooly and booming weed experiment/
  • Tourism: The power of partnerships: Thailand’s sustainable tourism can thrive with collaboration/Travel agents predict 1 million Chinese in Q2/Phuket crash kills foreigner, the 35th road death on island this year/
  • Thailand Experience: Phetchaburi Salt Festival ongoing until April 2/Salt farming in Thailand – Video/
  • International: East Asia and Pacific regional growth to accelerate as China rebounds/36 Bodies Found Inside Well After Collapse at Hindu Temple/One year on, Ukraine remembers Bucha victims/
  • 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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Red Cross Fair opens bigger and better than before

The Red Cross Fair, a staple outing for Thais in Hua Hin, began its spring run last night behind the Bluport mall with big crowds and more vendors than in past years. Improvements include canopies over the main vendor areas to protect against rain, although they made the areas uncomfortably hot.

The festival runs through April 9 on Soi 102 behind BluPort, and features numerous food booths, OTOP shops, entertainment and the usual carnival games. Expat News noticed many new foods being presented, as well as the old standbys. There were also new products being hawked by vendors, including marijuana and weed supplies.

Proceeds from the festival go to helping the poor, the handicapped and the underprivileged. Here are a few images from last night.

Doctors issue heatstroke warning as hot season grips Thailand

Doctors have warned people to look out for symptoms of heatstroke as temperatures rise across Thailand.

“As rising hot-season temperatures could hit 40 degrees Celsius in some areas, people who spend a long time outdoors could suffer from heatstroke,” said Dr. Manas Phothaporn, deputy director of the Department of Medical Services on Thursday. Continued …

Inside Thailand’s 200-million-baht war on PM2.5

As Chiang Mai was ranked world’s most polluted city again on Friday, figures show Thai authorities have spent at least 203.83 million baht to tackle PM2.5 in the past seven years (fiscal 2016-2022).

PM2.5 refers to the ultra-fine particles in air pollution that are linked with premature death from heart, lung and other conditions.

Figures compiled by Krungthep Turakij news outlet show Thai authorities have launched at least 761 projects to tackle PM2.5 pollution over the past seven years. Continued …

 

Thai forest fires worsen pollution that’s left 2 million ill

Raging forest fires in northern Thailand are threatening to worsen the country’s air pollution, which has sent nearly 2 million people to hospitals with respiratory illnesses since the beginning of the year.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha on Thursday ordered urgent steps to put out forest fires in Nakhon Nayok province to the east of Bangkok and those in the country’s northern region, including popular tourist destinations Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Continued … 

Khao Chaphlu fire now ‘under control’

A wildfire that was reportedly caused by a lightning strike on Khao Chaphlu in Nakhon Nayok on Tuesday evening has almost been completely contained, with fire barriers set up to prevent the blaze spreading to Khao Yai National Park.

Following the lightning strike, strong winds fueled the fire as it spread to Khao Laem, located near tambon Phrommani and Khao Phra in Muang district, on Wednesday and then Khao Nang Dam on Thursday. Continued …

Chiang Mai’s severe PM2.5 pollution lands thousands in hospital

Respiratory illnesses and allergies caused by severe air pollution have seen as many as 12,671 people admitted to the Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital since Jan. 1 this year.

The actual number, however, is far higher than reported because many patients could not be admitted due to overcrowding, said Dr. Bannakit Lojanapiwat, dean of Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Medicine. Continued …

National Parks Try To Help Animals Survive Bush Fires and Droughts

The temperatures at this time of year are harsh and lead to drought, affecting many wild animals. There are also forest fires in many national parks and conservation areas.

Pattarapol Maneeoan, senior expert veterinarian, also known as Doctor Lot, from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said wild animals are scared during bush fires and use instinct to survive by fleeing the fire. This leads to injuries, in some cases to the bones; in other cases, it can lead to death. Continued …

Thai Central Bank tightens up measures to protect bank customers

Bank customers who want to transfer more than 50,000 baht electronically from their bank accounts are required to have their faces scanned to confirm their banking transactions, under a new set of measures imposed by the Bank of Thailand to protect bank customers from online thieves.

Bank of Thailand Gov. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput has issued an order instructing all financial institutions, including commercial banks, to upgrade their banking systems to cope with increasing online theft from customers’ bank accounts. Continued …

Hacker threatens to publish data of 55 million Thai citizens

A hacker, who goes by the pseudonym of 9Near, threatened to publicly release the personal data of 55 million Thai citizens unless the government contacts the cyberpunk by April 5.

9Near announced on the dark website BreachForums that he had stolen the personal data of 55 million Thai citizens from a government department and was going to sell them. Continued …

63 Chinese religious refugees detained for overstays

Sixty-three Chinese nationals detained in Pattaya for overstaying their visas are members of a self-exiled Christian congregation seeking United Nations protection from religious persecution, their supporters say.

Two Americans who have been trying to help the group relocate to the United States have also been detained, the Wall Street Journal reported. Continued …

Swede charged for overstaying his visa by 7 years, and conning locals

Police have arrested a Swedish man who overstayed his visa by over seven years in Chon Buri. He is also accused of defrauding local Thai people for money.

The Immigration Bureau arrested the 50-year-old Swede, Lennart Alexander, at a rental house in the Si Racha district of Chon Buri. Continued …

Thailand gets ready for Songkran with free parking, toll-fee waivers

State agencies have been instructed to ensure people can travel safely during the April 12-18 Songkran holidays, government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said on Friday.

Thousands of Thais are expected to start heading home from April 12 to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year on April 13. Public holidays for the three-day fest run until April 18 this year. Continued … 

Thai cops indicted over extortion case with Taiwanese actress

Six Thai cops have been indicted by public prosecutors in the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases for allegedly extorting money from a Taiwanese actress in exchange for dropping charges against her. The officers are from Bangkok’s Huai Khwang police station.

According to Kosonlavat Intujunyong, deputy spokesman for the Office of the Attorney-General, the six officers have been charged with demanding and taking bribes in violation of Section 149 of the Criminal Code. The offense carries a jail term from five years to life, or the death penalty and a fine of 100,000-400,000 baht. Continued … 

Thai photographer who shot Oscars on how Thailand smothers creativity

Early in March, Thai photographer Jutharat “Poupay” Pinyodoonyachet made waves when Thais found out she was shooting the 95th Academy Awards for the New York Times.

“Dream until it’s reality. I’M HERE AT THE OSCARS!!!,” the photographer proclaimed in a caption next to a selfie taken earlier this month at the annual awards ceremony. The 30-year-old freelancer moved to New York in late 2019 after becoming fed up with the labor exploitation of Thailand’s movie industry. Continued … 

Thailand’s wild, wooly and booming weed experiment

In June 2022, the Thai government took the bold step of decriminalizing the production, sale and personal use of cannabis. Huge consequences have followed, and other Asian countries should take notice.

An extensive, largely unregulated industry has quickly emerged, surprising many observers. Specialized retail outlets selling cannabis products have proliferated in large cities. Their number seems comparable with conventional pharmacies.

The 3,000 new retail outlets officially registered include both small-scale Thai firms and foreign-owned firms with prior experience in the Amsterdam and California cannabis industries. Foreign firms are especially significant in cities receiving the most foreign tourists. Continued …

The power of partnerships: Thailand’s sustainable tourism can thrive with collaboration

In the deep waters off Phuket, hobby divers scour the sea to pick up garbage on holiday. Elsewhere, in one of Thailand’s many villages, visitors are engrossed in baking banana bread using locally-sourced ingredients. These activities are now in vogue, as the rise of sustainable tourism in the Land of Smiles mirrors a growing worldwide trend that is here to stay.

Research has shown that over 80% of global travelers feel that sustainable travel is important – and Thailand is doubling down on environmentally friendly trips. With tourism a key pillar of the Thai economy, the country is promoting sustainable tourism development in major cities and secondary cities. Continued …

Travel agents predict 1 million Chinese in Q2

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) expects 1 million Chinese tourists in the second quarter of this year, following positive signs of flight resumptions, while urging authorities to help regulate “zero-dollar” tours and illegal tour guides.

Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of ATTA, said as airlines work to increase both scheduled and charter flights, flight supply is ramping up. Continued …

Phuket crash kills foreigner, the 35th road death on island this year

Phuket’s number of road deaths reached 35 this year after a motorcycle crash killed a foreigner early this morning. The accident happened on Karon Beach Road on Phuket’s west coast at about 2.28am, according to the Ruamjai Rescue Foundation.

Rescuers and emergency medical service teams arrived on the scene to find a garbage truck parked on the side of the road. The foreigner’s body and a damaged motorcycle were lying nearby. Continued …

Phetchaburi Salt Festival ongoing until April 2

The Art of Salt festival in Phetchaburi is taking place until April 2 at the Bang Kaeo viewpoint.

The art of sculpting salt into intricate shapes and forms at the festival showcases the creativity and talent of local artisans. The salt sculpture designs vary from small and delicate to large designs showcasing the artists’ skill and creativity.

The fair, which begin s at 4pm daily, also features live music, a light and sound show, and an array of local food. One of the unusual treats to try is the unique sweet salt, which you won’t find anywhere else.

Salt farming in Thailand

Sompong Kaewmorakot has been a salt farmer for over three decades. He shares his thoughts on what it takes to run his farm in Bang Prakong, and his worries about its future. – Bangkok Post

East Asia and Pacific regional growth to accelerate as China rebounds

Growth in developing East Asia and the Pacific is forecast to accelerate in 2023 as China’s economy reopens, while the pace of growth in most of the economies in the rest of the region is anticipated to ease after a strong rebound last year, a World Bank report said on Thursday. Continued … 

36 Bodies Found Inside Well After Collapse at Hindu Temple

Thirty-six bodies have been found inside a well at a Hindu temple in central India after dozens of people attending a festival fell into the muddy water when its cover collapsed, officials said Friday. Continued …

One year on, Ukraine remembers Bucha victims

President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed Friday to defeat Russia, speaking alongside European leaders in Bucha one year after Moscow’s troops withdrew from the Ukrainian town that has become synonymous with war crimes allegations. 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, climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-March 30

  • Hua Hin wants ‘cultural traditions’ observed during Songkran/
  • 600-passenger cruise ship might dock in Hua Hin in May/
  • Beach polo event scheduled Saturday/
  • Forest fire rages on mountains in central Thailand – helicopters to assist today/
  • Only four allowed in back of pickups during Songkran/
  • Take your eyes off your mobile phone, says inventor, 50 years on/
  • Swedish man sentenced to prison for running child porn network in Thailand/
  • Thailand releases pad kaprow flavored condoms/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Higher sugar prices pose new threat to food inflation/CEOs want the next government to cut power costs, stimulate economy/ESG: Poison or Panacea for Thai Business?/Economy faces export clogs with rules in China and ‘green imperialism’ from the European Union/Western slowdown to weigh on Thai production/AIS to invest up to 30 billion baht on infrastructure this year/No more commuting? Thailand enshrines work-from-home culture in law/AOT given green light for ‘airport city’ next to Suvarnabhumi/Heineken sets out sustainable strategy/Thailand’s Long and Bumpy Road to Nuclear Energy Adoption/
  • Tourism: TAT Songkran festival targets four key regions, but not PKK/Who didn’t see this coming? Thousands of Russians and Ukrainians stranded in Thailand/Chiang Mai tour operators concerned over pollution, bookings down 50%/Phuket braces for 10% Songkran spike/Foreign ‘tour guides’ taking jobs that are reserved for Thais/Q1 tourism target exceeded, but what about 45-day visa exemption?/Revival of the “Zero-dollar Tour” Would Cost Thailand THB 3 Trillion/Foreigner deported from China for using cannabis in Thailand/
  • Thailand Experience: Nan Province: A melting pot/Explore Amphawa Floating Market near Bangkok for an authentic Thai experience/
  • International: UK closer to joining Pacific trade pact/Indonesia stripped of hosting rights by FIFA/50 years since US combat troops pulled out of South Vietnam/China’s ‘art factory’ painters turn from fakes to originals/
  • 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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Hua Hin wants ‘cultural traditions’ observed during Songkran

Hua Hin has released guidelines for 2023 Songkran activities, with the aim to focus on cultural values and traditions under the concept of “continuing the Thai way of Songkran, joining the heart to the world”.

Appropriate traditional activities include cleaning houses, temples and public places, making merit, offering alms to monks, practicing Dharma, listening to sermons, pouring water on Buddha images and offering blessings to the elderly.

The public also is requested to wear traditional Thai dress during participation in activities to create an awareness of the Thai identity to foreigners.

600-passenger cruise ship might dock in Hua Hin in May

The MV Europa, a Maltese-registered luxury cruise liner, has recently requested permission to dock near Hua Hin and allow its 600 passengers to disembark.

The request has sparked discussions among officials at the municipality and the provincial administration who are working to ensure that the necessary measures are in place to make the disembarkation process safe and seamless.

At a meeting held at the Hua Hin municipality on Wednesday, officials discussed the proposed plan for the MV Europa’s arrival. The discussions focused on a range of important issues, including providing immigration services, preventing the spread of communicable diseases, and promoting boat tourism in accordance with government policy. Continued …

Beach polo event scheduled Saturday

The Princess Pa’s Cup beach polo tournament is taking place on Saturday.

This event is set to attract a large audience of polo enthusiasts, socialites, and philanthropists and is being held at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort from 12:30pm to 9pm. Continued … 

Forest fire rages on mountains in central Thailand – helicopters to assist today

Video from the “This is Nakhon Nayok” site showed an out-of-control fire that had been raging for 24 hours last night.

The fire started on Wednesday in the area of Khao Chaphlu and Khao Laem in Khao Phra and Phromanee subdistricts of the central Thailand province. Continued and video …

Only four allowed in back of pickups during Songkran

The chief of the Royal Thai Police, Gen. Damrongsak Kittipraphat, yesterday commented regarding the election and the Songkran holidays.

It will be the chief’s first Songkran in charge next month and he has addressed a perennial concern – the public riding dangerously in the back of pickups. Continued …

Take your eyes off your mobile phone, says inventor, 50 years on

The problem with mobile phones is that people look at them too much. At least, that’s according to the man who invented them 50 years ago.

Martin Cooper, an American engineer dubbed the “Father of the cell phone,” says the neat little device we all have in our pockets has almost boundless potential and could one day even help conquer disease. But right now, we can be a little obsessed. Continued …

Swedish man sentenced to prison for running child porn network in Thailand

A 23-year-old Swedish man who controlled a network of underage girls in Thailand into sending pornographic pictures and videos of themselves from his parent’s home in Stockholm has been sentenced to four years and six months in prison. The material was sold to thousands of people via social media.

Most of the thousands of victims were 13 to 17 years old. They told the authorities they were contacted by men offering money for explicit content. The girls sent the content but never received the money, they told the Thai police. Continued …

Thailand releases pad kaprow flavored condoms

Holy basil lovers, condom brand myONE Thailand has released a special edition “chicken kaprow”-flavored condom.

With April 1 just around the corner, it’s not easy to trust that myONE Thailand is serious about their pad kaprow-flavored contraceptive. But it looks like the holy basil chicken condom is not a hoax. Continued …

Higher sugar prices pose new threat to food inflation

Sugar, consumed in everything from chocolate to fizzy drinks and baked products, is becoming ever more expensive, raising costs for the industry and keeping up pressure on global food inflation.

Prices of refined sugar surged to the highest in more than a decade this week, while the raw variety is near to the costliest in over six years. Global supply is tightening, mainly because India, one of the top shippers, has cut exports after rains hurt the sugar cane crop and as more sweetener is diverted to biofuel. Continued …

CEOs want the next government to cut power costs, stimulate economy

CEOs want the next government to cut energy prices, prevent disruptions in supply chains, and stimulate the economy, a survey of 427 CEOs by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) found.

The cost of energy was the top concern in the survey, which found that 77.8% of CEOs want the next government to lower oil and electricity prices, and about 70% want it to cut the fuel tariff on electricity from September to December. Continued …

ESG: Poison or Panacea for Thai Business?

Considering the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework has been increasingly important in Thailand in recent years. Thai businesses are still learning to fully comprehend the need to integrate ESG factors into their operations in order to safeguard their long-term viability, comply with international standards, and reduce exposure to potential and market threats.

The ESG framework represents a company’s actions and impact on the environment, society, and corporate governance. In fact, the three factors are seen as key indicators of long-term sustainability and financial performance for all firms. However, adopting an ESG framework and integrating ESG considerations into business operations can be challenging for various companies. Continued …

Economy faces export clogs with rules in China and ‘green imperialism’ from the European Union

The Thai central bank raised interest rates on Wednesday even with inflation coming in at only 3.8% for February. The country’s economic ministries, in the meantime, have prioritized the promotion of Thai exports against a backdrop of a more risk-averse world banking system, higher borrowing rates and reduced demand.

Thai exports are also facing challenges in China and Europe due to local regulations and what a legal expert has described as the ‘regulatory imperialism’ of the European Union.

On Tuesday, it was announced that the Fiscal Policy Office has been tasked with closely monitoring trends and potential impediments in the export sector, as the ministry acknowledged that economic growth in 2023 was now dependent on foreign tourism and an uptick in domestic spending. Continued …

Western slowdown to weigh on Thai production

Thai exports are likely to be indirectly affected by banking problems in the U.S. and Europe, slowing an already sluggish sector and causing a drop in the Manufacturing Production Index (MPI), according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

The index dipped 0.45% to 98.9 points in February on a monthly basis, with the March MPI unlikely to improve, as foreign demand for Thai products remains weak amid a sluggish economy in the U.S. and European countries, said Warawan Chitaroon, director-general of the OIE. Continued …

AIS to invest up to 30 billion baht on infrastructure this year

Mobile operator Advanced Info Service is investing 27 billion to 30 billion baht this year to upgrade its telecom infrastructure to support emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, and the internet of things, its CEO told a press conference on Wednesday.

AIS CEO Somchai Lertsutiwong said its goal is to strengthen its infrastructure so that any person or company can use services to improve their quality of life or increasing business efficiency. Continued …

No more commuting? Thailand enshrines work-from-home culture in law

Thailand has become the latest country to enshrine rights for working from home, offering protection to a growing number of people who are keen to work from home but unsure about the law and guidelines.

The move comes as more employees find the line between their personal life and work is becoming blurred, with bosses expecting them to be available at all hours. Continued …

AOT given green light for ‘airport city’ next to Suvarnabhumi

Airports of Thailand will proceed with its plan to transform 723 rai of land adjacent Suvarnabhumi International Airport into “airport city” now that the Interior Ministry has amended the zoning code in Samut Prakan to allow the project to proceed, its president said.

The Interior Ministry recently published an announcement in the Royal Gazette saying it had given approval for farmland around Suvarnabhumi airport in Samut Prakan to be used for infrastructure and buildings, AOT President Nitinai Sirismatthakarn said. Continued …

Heineken sets out sustainable strategy

Dutch beer brand Heineken is committed to pursuing sustainable brewing and clean energy as part of its business priorities over the long term.

Solar panels are installed at TAP’s brewery in Nonthaburi, covering an area of four acres, equivalent to two football fields. When fully operational, the solar farm can generate 30% of the electricity required for the brewhouse.

“Heineken recognizes that business growth and sustainability are interconnected, The company’s ‘Brew a Better World’ vision promotes water stewardship, reducing CO2 emissions, sourcing sustainably, advocating responsible consumption, promoting health and safety, and growing with communities,” said Thum Chee Yuen, managing director of Thai Asia-Pacific Brewery (TAP), the brewer and distributor of Heineken in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand’s Long and Bumpy Road to Nuclear Energy Adoption

In many respects, Thailand is an extremely fortunate nation. It is located in the heart of Southeast Asia, with no threat of food shortages, no major state or non-state enemies, and no severe risks of natural disasters (this point, though, is debatable as Thailand is said to be one of the top 10 countries in the world most impacted by climate change). But when it comes to energy security, Thais should be concerned.

Thailand is, after all, a net importer of oil and natural gas, and its existing reserves – most notably the one in the Gulf of Thailand – are running low. To satisfy its people’s skyrocketing demand, the Thai government does not have much of a choice but to keep relying on imported energy sources (and grudgingly accepting rising prices in the process). Continued … 

TAT Songkran festival targets four key regions, but not PKK

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will run a series of events dubbed “Water Festival 2023” in four regions between April 13-16, in conjunction with Thai Beverage Public Co. (ThaiBev) and other partners.

Suraphon Svetasreni, chairman of the organizing committee, said on Wednesday that the events are also being supported by the Culture Ministry, Royal Thai Navy, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), private and government networks, as well local communities. Continued …

Who didn’t see this coming? Thousands of Russians and Ukrainians stranded in Thailand

While many Russians have been investing in villas and homes in Thailand, there are also thousands of Russians and Ukrainians who are stranded in the country due to the ongoing war following the invasion of Russian troops into Ukraine.

Around 7,000 Russians and Ukrainians are currently stranded in Thailand, with many of them currently in Phuket. The island used to attract 8–9 million overseas visitors in the years up to 2019, but the pandemic has caused a significant drop in tourism. Continued …

Chiang Mai tour operators concerned over pollution, bookings down 50%

Tour operators in Chiang Mai raised concerns after the latest tourism figures revealed bookings were down 50% after the popular tourist destination was ranked the world’s most polluted city. But that’s not all, respiratory diseases in the province continue to rise.

The air quality index produced by Swiss company IQAir revealed that Chiang Mai had a reading of 216 at noon yesterday, which is considered “very unhealthy.” Anything above 51 is a cause for concern. In comparison, Bangkok had a reading of 80, while Birmingham and London had readings of 25 and 8, respectively. Continued …

Phuket braces for 10% Songkran spike

Phuket expects to see a 10% increase in hotel bookings during the Songkran festival next month.

Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said on Wednesday the government’s We Travel Together tourism stimulus campaign has attracted more visitors to Phuket to celebrate the Thai New Year on April 13-15. Continued …

Foreign ‘tour guides’ taking jobs that are reserved for Thais

The caretaker Thai PM, Prayut Chan-o-cha, has ordered strict legal action against foreigners who are working as tour guides, which is a profession exclusively reserved for Thai nationals.

This announcement came after several complaints were filed, citing violation of the executive decree of 2017. According to government deputy spokeswoman Traisuree Taisarakul, the law clearly states that foreigners cannot work without a permit or fill jobs reserved for Thai citizens, including tour guide positions. Continued …

Q1 tourism target exceeded, but what about 45-day visa exemption?

Thailand has exceeded its target for tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2023, with a total of 6.15 million visitors from January to March 27. The government had initially aimed for 6 million arrivals during this period.

The numbers coincide with the government’s extension of the usual 30-day visa waiver (for 64 countries) to 45 days. The extension was valid between the start of October, 2022, and March 31, 2023. No announcements have since been made to extend the 45-day visa waiver beyond the end of March, although both the Thai Tourism and Sports Ministers and the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand have expressed their interest in proposing an extension. Continued … 

Revival of the “Zero-dollar Tour” Would Cost Thailand THB 3 Trillion

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MOTS) has met urgently to prevent the resurgence of the zero-dollar tour, fearing that it will sabotage the country’s upcoming tourism revenue.

Arrun Boonchai, permanent secretary of MOTS, said that following the opening of the Chinese border to international travel without restrictions on Feb. 6, the ministry has discovered several travel agencies from China advertising travel packages that are significantly below the cost of operation, a tactic known as the “zero-dollar tour”. Continued …

Foreigner deported from China for using cannabis in Thailand

A foreigner of unknown nationality was allegedly deported from Shanghai, China, for testing positive for cannabis upon returning from Thailand, where marijuana is legal.

Getting high is normal in Thailand since cannabis was decriminalized almost a year ago. But China doesn’t share Thailand’s liberal stance on the psychoactive plant. Continued …

Nan Province: A melting pot

Late in the morning, my caffeine-dependent friends and I made a pit stop at the newly opened Pua Tobacco Barn Café & Eatery to refuel before leaving the popular town of Pua, close to the Xienghone-Hongsa special economic zone between Nan and Laos.

Sitting there and observing the surroundings reminded me of the good old days when Pua district served as one of the Tobacco Authority of Thailand’s primary suppliers in the northern region, with more than 1,000 rai of tobacco plants spanning the whole neighborhood. Continued …

Explore Amphawa Floating Market near Bangkok for an authentic Thai experience

Dense evergreen forests criss-crossed with a series of rivers and rivulets have always been a key feature of southeast Asia’s natural vegetation. Over the years, this unique vegetation has led to the development of an amazing water transport system, along with a unique water-based lifestyle, revolving around floating markets.

For centuries, the floating markets have played an integral role in shaping the lives of the citizens of Southeast Asian countries like Thailand. In recent years, the Thai lifestyle has changed and water transport has largely been replaced by road transport running along the network of highways stretching all across Thailand.

The floating markets have lost much of their significance. But Thailand authorities have come up with a unique plan of revamping the floating markets and turning them into tourist hot spots. Continued …

UK closer to joining Pacific trade pact

Members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership are expected to agree this month on allowing Britain to join the free trade pact, Japanese government sources said on Wednesday. Continued …

Indonesia stripped of hosting rights by FIFA

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has stripped Indonesia of the right to stage this year’s Under-20 World Cup, over what an Indonesian official said was a failure to honur its commitments to the tournament. Continued …

50 years since US combat troops pulled out of South Vietnam

Wednesday marked the 50th anniversary of combat troops departing South Vietnam, the beginning of the end of the United States’ direct military involvement in the unpopular war. Continued …

China’s ‘art factory’ painters turn from fakes to originals

Painters in a Chinese village once known for churning out replicas of Western masterpieces are now making original art worth thousands of dollars, selling their own works in a booming domestic art market. 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-Chiang Mai flight schedules

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Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

 

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