Category Archives: phuket

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

Thursday’s News-Jan 19

  • An updated drone video of the train track construction/
  • Thai police checkpoint on-the-spot fines jumped to 1000 baht/
  • FTI predicts growth in 17 industries will drive Thai economic rebound/
  • ADRA Canada Helps Protect Girls in Thailand/
  • Eight bodies found after oil tank fire, one man missing/
  • Manufacturers urged to adopt renewables/
  • Reward of 100,000 Baht Offered For Missing Cat in Phuket/
  • Displaced Karen threaten to return to Phetchaburi park/
  • Cannabis Bill second reading House meeting collapses – again/
  • Tourism: Lunar New Year holiday spending forecast at Bt21.3 billion/Tourism fee back on the table, to be decided next week/Tourism workers run short/Chinese tourists return to Chiang Mai just in time for Lunar New Year/Northeast Thai farmer is ‘selling’ fresh air/
  • Thailand Experience: Ganesha statue with Buddhist element brings worshippers and tourists to Udon Thani/
  • International: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stepping down/Polar bear chases residents in Alaska town, kills woman and boy/Ancient Maya cities, ‘super highways’ revealed/Most rainforest carbon offsets ‘worthless’/Microsoft To Cut 10,000 Jobs As Tech Layoffs Intensify/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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An updated drone video of the train track construction – Video

Thai police checkpoint on-the-spot fines jumped to 1,000 baht

An increasing number of foreigners are being targeted by police for fines, usually in late morning checkpoints on busy west coast roads. And the fine appears to have increased, too.

While in the past the checks were mostly about wearing a bike helmet, lately, according to sources, the checks are for legal motorbike licenses, which most foreigners don’t have. The fines are now, routinely, 1,000 baht. In the past, tourists going through checkpoints without a helmet or the correct license could usually expect an on-the-spot fine of 500 baht.

These payments are all required in cash only. Exactly what happens to all the cash collected at these pre-lunch checkpoints is not clear. Continued …

FTI predicts growth in 17 industries will drive Thai economic rebound

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) expressed confidence that Thailand’s economic recovery will continue this year as the Covid-19 situation improves, prompting higher domestic consumption and a tourism rebound.

The tourism sector is expected to welcome at least 20 million foreign arrivals this year thanks to pent-up demand during Covid-19, China lifting travel restrictions, and government measures to boost tourism, said FTI Vice President Kriangkrai Thiannukul on Wednesday.

Exports this year are slowing in line with the slumping global economy. However, benefits of free trade agreements under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and new FTAs with countries in the Middle East would help keep the Thai export sector afloat this year, he said. Continued …

ADRA Canada Helps Protect Girls in Thailand

For some villages in the northern region of Thailand, modern amenities are inaccessible. People in these villages often struggle to maintain a decent quality of life.

Thantong is one such village. Located in Maengen, Chiangsean district, Chiang Rai province, Thantong sits near the Thai-Laos border, about 30 kilometers (18 miles) from the Chiangsean District Office. The remote location of this village translates often to harsh conditions that are ripe for exploitation.

A young girl from this village was rescued from exactly this kind of situation by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Keep Girls Safe Project. Having been neglected by her parents, and with no other relatives to take care of her, the girl was forced to live on her own, which quickly exposed her to risks of trafficking and exploitation. Continued …

Eight bodies found after oil tank fire, one man missing

Rescue teams recovered five out of six bodies found on Wednesday in the Mae Klong River, bringing the confirmed death toll in the oil tanker fire and explosion to eight. One person is still missing.

Dozens of rescue workers, including divers equipped with underwater scanners and jet skiers, resumed the search within a 100-meter radius of the oil tanker, which caught fire and exploded Tuesday morning in the Ruam Mitr Dockyard in Mueang district of Samut Songkhram province.

An official from a rescue team said that divers are having to exercise extreme caution, because there is a lot of steel debris from the tanker under the water. Continued …

Manufacturers urged to adopt renewables

Higher power bills will be a key factor awakening businesses in the manufacturing sector to a need to seriously adopt renewable energy to relieve an increase in their production costs, estimated at 4.88% on average, says the Industry Ministry.

The Energy Regulatory Commission can only slightly reduce a planned increase in the power tariff, which is used to calculate electricity bills, from 20.5% to 13%, although the business sector demanded a larger reduction in order that they might better control their financial burden.

The new tariff is effective as of January to April this year. Continued …

Reward of 100,000 Baht Offered For Missing Cat in Phuket

A Chinese expat has offered a 100,000 baht reward for anyone who can find her missing cat, a white Persian cat.

Xiong, 40, Chinese national, said the missing cat, Garfield, is a male two-year-old white Persian cat. Garfield has been taken from China with Xiong. Garfield went with her everywhere. Continued …

Displaced Karen threaten to return to Phetchaburi park

Karen villagers evicted from Bang Kloy Bon and Chai Phaendin forest villages in part of Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi in 1996 are threatening to return to the villages.

A government panel has been asked to fix land grievances. The villagers want to be updated on its progress by the end of this month or are threatening to return.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha formed it on Feb. 3 last year. The panel is investigating the land dispute between the Karen villagers and the national park authorities. Continued …

Cannabis Bill second reading House meeting collapses – again

A Palang Pracharath Party MP said Wednesday that there is no chance that the Cannabis Bill will ever pass its second reading in the House, because of stiff opposition to it from the Democrat, Pheu Thai and Move Forward parties.

The MP, Pichet Sathirachaval, said that even within the ruling Palang Pracharath Party some MPs do not agree with the bill, due to stiff resistance from Muslim communities and parent groups.

Personally, he said he would prefer MPs to vote in support of the bill in the second reading and to reject the bill in the final reading, and then let the next government decide whether it should be revived or dropped. Continued …

Lunar New Year holiday spending forecast at Bt21.3 billion

Tourism spending during the Lunar New Year is estimated to reach 21.3 billion baht, 48% of the total in 2019, mostly driven by foreign visitors, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The Lunar New Year holiday, which started this week in many countries, is forecast to tally 588,900 foreign arrivals, generating 16.7 billion baht in receipts between Jan. 19-27, said TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn.

Of the total, tourists from Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia are expected to dominate the market, totalling 332,500 arrivals generating 11 billion baht. Continued …

Tourism fee back on the table, to be decided next week

Officials will meet next week to once more discuss a possible “tourism arrival fee”, whose introduction has been repeatedly postponed since being proposed at the start of last year.

According to a report, the National Tourism Policy Committee will meet on Jan. 24 to discuss a proposal to levy a 300-baht entry fee for foreign tourists.

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, says officials will be asked to approve the levy for all international tourists, whether arriving by land, sea, or air. Continued …

Tourism workers run short

More than 9,000 workers are still in demand in the tourism industry as foreign arrivals continue to arrive in large numbers, according to the Labor Ministry.

Boonchob Sutthamanaswong, permanent secretary for the Labor Ministry, said labor offices in 60 provinces had recently surveyed labor demand among 32,359 operators in the tourism sector.

Of them, 1,817 businesses still needed 9,763 workers, he said. Continued …

Chinese tourists return to Chiang Mai just in time for Lunar New Year

The first planeload of 195 Chinese tourists touched down in Chiang Mai on Wednesday after China scrapped travel restrictions last week.

Juneyao Airlines Flight HO1325 landed at Chiang Mai Airport at 3.30pm and was welcomed by representatives from the provincial Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office, Tourism Council, and tourism operators in the province.

China was Thailand’s biggest overseas tourism market before the pandemic, with around 11 million Chinese arrivals in 2019. However, Thai tourism authorities expect less than half that number, or about 5 million, to visit the country this year. Continued …

Northeast Thai farmer is ‘selling’ fresh air

One northeast Thai farmer is ‘selling’ fresh air. The farmer, 52-year-old Dusit Kachai, charges visitors 1,000 baht per person for the first hour they stay at his farm.

The farm is located on the edge of Chaiyaphum province’s Phu Laen Kha National Park, which has clean air, forests, and mountain streams. Dusit said, “The first hour costs 1,000 baht, but then visitors can stay for free, including food and camping.”

Three meals are provided for free, along with a tent for camping. Children and elderly people can enter the farm entirely for free, Dusit said. Continued …

Ganesha statue with Buddhist element brings worshippers and tourists to Udon Thani

A unique statue of Ganesha in Udon Thani province is drawing worshippers from all over the country seeking blessings, in addition to tourists.

The Sri Suk Ganesha statue has been installed behind Udon Thani Vocational College in Muang district. Built in 2019 by the famed sculptor Rachan Saengthong, the statue mixes Hindu and Buddhist mythology.

The statue portrays the Hindu god of luck with eight hands perched on Naga, the nine-headed king cobra who protected Gautama Buddha from the elements after his enlightenment. Continued …

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stepping down

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said today she is stepping down as New Zealand’s leader and will not contest this year’s general elections. Fighting back tears, Ardern told reporters in Napier that Feb. 7 will be her last day in office. Continued … 

Polar bear chases residents in Alaska town, kills woman and boy

A polar bear that chased residents around a small Alaska town attacked and killed two people before being shot and killed Tuesday, authorities said. Continued … 

Ancient Maya cities, ‘super highways’ revealed

A new high-tech study has revealed nearly 1,000 ancient Maya settlements, including 417 previously unknown cities linked by what may be the world’s first highway network and hidden for millennia by the dense jungles of northern Guatemala and southern Mexico. Continued … 

Most rainforest carbon offsets ‘worthless’

A system that allows big corporations to buy carbon offsets in rain forests to cancel out their harmful emissions is essentially “worthless,” an analysis by several media organizations showed Wednesday. Continued … 

Microsoft To Cut 10,000 Jobs As Tech Layoffs Intensify

Microsoft Corp on Wednesday said it would eliminate 10,000 jobs and take a $1.2-billion charge as its cloud-computing customers dissect their spending and the company braces for potential recession. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets 

 

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, cha am, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-Jan 13

  • Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain tomorrow/Foreign husband in Cha Am dies after saving Thai wife learner driver/Illegal pork import gets destroyed in Cha Am/Chula develops blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s 10 years before onset/Parliament study a blueprint for legalizing casinos minus controls: NGO/Corruption investigation leaves some Thai immigration officials in hot water/Thai economy up against it in 2023 despite the Chinese tourist hype/Merged True-DTAC to be called True Corp/Baht surges to its strongest level in 10 months/Australian Woman Runs Over, Kills Street Painter in Pattaya/Thailand’s birth rate falls to 71-year low, sparking alarm/2-meter tapeworm found in Thai man who eats raw meat/
  • Tourism: Hua Hin: City of Happiness?/PKK names 8 districts for tourism promotion/Foreigners Sought Who Allegedly Attacked Thai Tourists on Samui Island/Foreign Doctor on Vacation Rescues Russian Lady from Drowning at Patong Beach/5 foreign tourists injured as vehicle topples down ravine in Chiang Rai; driver dead/Foreign tourist breaks back at Pai waterfall/Phuket officials quash plans for floating beach club/
  • Thailand Experience: Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments/Where to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok/
  • Covid: Thailand clarifies all measures to control Covid as tourism surges/Seniors urged to get two booster jabs this year/
  • International: Study linking asthma and cooking gas stirs debate/Scientists sound alarm as ocean temperatures hit new record/Putin signals impatience over Ukraine war in commander switch/Chinese cities to pay people to have children/Tell-all book ‘Spare’ sells record 1.4M copies on day one/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain tomorrow

Popular Swedish band Duo Jag will perform in a free concert at Black Mountain Golf Club on Saturday.

The group will perform favorite hit songs from all genres of music from recent years.

Foreign husband in Cha Am dies after saving Thai wife learner driver

A husband from Myanmar has died after helping his Thai wife escape death after she reversed into a 10-meter deep pond in front of their house at a Cha- Am housing estate.

Naimo, 39, had decided to let his learner driver wife Noranat, 41, reverse out of their home in Ban Nong Yao, Khao Yai subdistrict.

She later admitted she was not a good driver and she accidentally panicked in reverse by stepping on the accelerator. Continued …

Illegal pork import gets destroyed in Cha Am

Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives buried more than 700,000 kilograms of smuggled pork meat and entrails in Petchaburi province’s Cha Am district yesterday.

According to Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, the 723,786kg of smuggled pork — worth 123 million baht — was the largest load of illegal meat ever destroyed by the authorities.

The idea of burying pork came from the World Organization for Animal Health. The method was touted as the safest, cheapest, and most effective eco-friendly method that the authorities can use. Continued …

Chula develops blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s 10 years before onset

The Thai Red Cross Emerging Infectious Diseases Health Science Center at the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, has unveiled research on a blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s that can give a 10-year warning. The test may enable people to slow the development of dementia in old age.

Alzheimer’s is a disease that many people pray that they or their loved ones do not experience. But looking at today’s social context, there’s no denying that the disease is more relevant to us than it seems because it usually manifests itself when we are 60 years old and above. The fact that we are in an aging society, dementia, therefore, becomes more common.

Currently, 50 million people are suffering from dementia around the world. In Thailand, there are 700 thousand such patients, 500 thousand of which suffer from Alzheimer’s. Continued …

Parliament study a blueprint for legalizing casinos minus controls: NGO

An NGO has slammed the Thai Parliament’s study on entertainment complexes as a blueprint for legalizing casinos that ignores damage to society from legalized gambling.

Thanakorn Khomkris, secretary-general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, said that about 95% of the report focuses on how to legalize and collect revenues from casinos, while only 5% is devoted to other entertainment-complex businesses such as hotels, theme parks, sports arenas, and shopping malls.

“This shows that the study aims to highlight the pros of legalizing casinos in Thailand, while many important topics have been omitted, such as prevention of money laundering and other criminal activities, and the impact of legalized gambling on society,” he said on Thursday. Continued …

Corruption investigation leaves some Thai immigration officials in hot water

A corruption investigation has left some Thai immigration officials in hot water over their alleged involvement in helping Chinese businessmen. Senior Immigration Bureau investigators say they found clear evidence that some officers are helping foreign criminals by serving as owners of foundations that provided visas to Chinese nationals.

According to reports, one of the foundations had its headquarters in a chicken coop, which is clearly the wrong location for a foundation office. Further findings revealed schools applying for visas for such Chinese nationals, as well as falsification of signatures by a deputy governor.

The investigation found some IB officers using a fake foundation to hire agents to falsify visa documents. Police are expected to summon the accused officers, who range from station heads and commanders to officers. Continued …

Thai economy up against it in 2023 despite the Chinese tourist hype

Thailand’s economy in 2023 is already facing challenges and mired in difficulty despite the resumption of the Chinese tourist trade, with the country recording a current account deficit in November. A sharp drop in exports in the last three months of 2022 culminated in a 7.5% dive in December.

These latest figures have led to a revised GDP growth for the last quarter of the year, down from 4.5% to 2.5%. The downturn in the manufacturing and export sector, which accounts for 60% of the economy, is coming with the government seeking to fund a ฿3.34 trillion budget announced on Thursday for the year ahead, while seeking to control public sector debt, including short-term liabilities of ฿250 billion incurred to tamp down inflation last year, money that is owed to the country’s oil fund and electricity generation firms.

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan ocha and key ministers attended a ceremony at Government House on Thursday where the budget to 2024 was unveiled totaling ฿3.34 trillion in expenditure. General Prayut pointed out that the government would have to find the tax revenue to fund the budget and referred to the ongoing economic recovery, particularly in the foreign tourism sector. Continued …

Merged True-DTAC to be called True Corp

The boards of the telecom operators True Corp.oration and Total Access Communication (DTAC) have agreed to call their merged company True Corporation.

A joint shareholders’ meeting will be held on Feb. 23 to approve the new corporate structure and other details related to the amalgamation, the companies said in statements to the Stock Exchange of Thailand on Thursday.

The merger, to be completed within the first quarter of this year, will result in the creation of a telecom giant with a total of 55 million mobile subscribers, compared with 45 million for the current market leader Advanced Info Service Plc (AIS). Continued …

Baht surges to its strongest level in 10 months

The bath strengthened to 33.06 per United States dollar this morning, the highest level in 10 months, according to Kasikorn Research Center (KRC).

The Thai currency appreciated from 33.36 to the dollar when the market closed on Thursday, center research executive Kanchana Chokpaisarnsilp said. Continued …

Australian Woman Runs Over, Kills Street Painter in Pattaya

An Australian driver accidentally ran over a street painter on the job and killed him in Pattaya Wednesday.

The victim, Prasit Kabphet, was painting the road at the entrance of Wongamat Residence Condominium in Soi 16 in the Naklua subdistrict, Banglamung district, Chonburi.

CCTV footage discovered that the 62-year-old Australian, Michelle Ann Eddy, seemed to be totally unaware of Prasit when she turned her vehicle around the corner to enter her condo’s front gate where the 45-year-old victim was working. The driver then ran over the victim and kept driving to her parking lot, where someone rushed to tell her that she had run over a man. Continued …

Thailand’s birth rate falls to 71-year low, sparking alarm

Thailand is becoming a graying society as the number of children born last year hit a 71-year low, the Social Development and Human Security Ministry announced on Thursday.

Only 502,000 children were born in Thailand last year, about 30% below the target of 700,000 and the lowest birth rate in 71 years, Anukul Pidkaew, permanent secretary at the ministry, told a press conference.

He was joined by Dr. Somchai Jitsuchon, a researcher at the Thailand Development Research Institute. Both described the low birth rate as a “crisis”. Continued …

2-meter tapeworm found in Thai man who eats raw meat

A Thai man posted a video on social media to warn people to avoid eating raw meat after a two-meter tapeworm was found in his body.

Amarit Chuetamuen posted videos to share his deworming experience. In the first video, Amarit told his followers that his anus had become itchy and then felt something slipping out of his bottom.

He thought it was his intestine at first but found that it was moving. Then, a 10-centimeter parasite worm slipped out of his back end. The cause of parasites like this is believed to be consuming raw beef. Continued … 

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

Hua Hin: City of Happiness?

Hua Hin government officials have devised a new local development plan for 2023-2027, with the theme “Hua Hin, the City of Happiness”, which includes five strategies:

  1. Promotion of tourism, infrastructure and economy development.
  2. Promote the development of education, religion, culture and recreation.
  3. Promote the development of public health and the environment
  4. Promote development of social welfare, community and quality of life
  5. To promote the development of administration and services

PKK names 8 districts for tourism promotion

The “Hidden Wow Prachuap Khiri Khan” project will promote tourist attractions or tourist resources in eight districts with high potential to increase the depth of travel experiences in the province.

The campaign aims to distribute tourists both locally and during travel time to reduce the concentration of tourists in any particular area. Tourists will also be encouraged to travel on weekdays and focus on the advantages of travel year-round.

The eight identified districts for the Hidden Wow campaign are:

  • Hua Hin District: Khao Tao and Khao Tao Reservoir
  • Pranburi District: Kung Sai Beach and Khao Kalok Beach
  • Pranburi District: Phraya Nakhon Cave, Nom Sao Island, and Khao Daeng Canal
  • Kui Buri District: Kui Buri Safari National Park
  • Amphoe Mueang including the 3 bays (Ao Prachuap, Ao Manao, Ao Noi) and Khlong Bueng Reservoir.
  • Thap Sakae District: Koh Chan – Koh Thai Si Ban Thung Pradu Tourism Community and Khao Lan Waterfall
  • Bang Saphan District, including Phra Mahathat Chedi Phakdi Prakak Bo Thong Lang Bay and gold pan culture courtyard
  • Bang Saphan Noi District: Pha Fang Daeng and Khao Pho – Hua Hin municipality

Foreigners Sought Who Allegedly Attacked Thai Tourists on Samui Island

Foreigners who allegedly attacked a group of Thai tourists on Samui Island reportedly relocated to Phuket. Thailand’s most famous cop, “Big Joke”, has personally ordered for the suspects to be found.

The Bo Phut Police said they have identified a group of foreigners who allegedly attacked Thai tourists on New Year’s Eve. A summons for assault has been issued for them and the foreigners, who are believed to be expats, have been encouraged to turn themselves in. Thai police have also contacted the Immigration Bureau in regards to the visa status of the suspects.

Deputy National Police Chief Gen. Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn went to the Bo Phut Police Station on Samui Island to make urgent progress on the case. Continued …

Foreign Doctor on Vacation Rescues Russian Lady from Drowning at Patong Beach

A foreign tourist, who is a licensed medical doctor, rescued a Russian tourist from drowning at Phuket’s Patong Beach.

Patong lifeguards said that on Wednesday a female Russian tourist was struggling in the seawater. Foreign tourists who saw the incident helped to pull her up to the beach.

The female Russian tourist was unconscious and had no pulse. A male foreign tourist and Patong lifeguards provided help and CPR to the Russian woman before her pulse was detected again. Continued …

5 foreign tourists injured as vehicle topples down ravine in Chiang Rai; driver dead

An accident on the hill leading up to Moo Ban Akha Pang Klang, a popular tourist area in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, resulted in one death and five injuries.

A Toyota Fortuner was driven off the dirt track and toppled 30 meters down a ravine, flipping many times. It ended up in the Mae Sat creek.

The driver Weerawat, 51, from Chiang Mai, was reportedly thrown out of the vehicle, then crushed and drowned under its weight in the creek. Continued …

Foreign tourist breaks back at Pai waterfall

A foreign tourist broke his back in a motorbiking accident at a waterfall in the backpacking hotspot of Pai, Mae Hong Son province on Thursday.

Issam Messaoudi, a dual Belgian-Moroccan national, was rescued and rushed to Pai Hospital after his motorcycle lost control while he was riding up a path next to Mor Paeng waterfall in Pai district.

X-rays taken at the hospital showed his spine was broken, prompting medics to transfer him to the better-equipped Bangkok Hospital in Chiang Mai – an agonizing 130-kilometer journey. Continued …

Phuket officials quash plans for floating beach club

Phuket Gov. Narong Woonsiew and a number of other officials have put a stop to plans to launch a floating beach club, or party boat, in the Andaman Sea. Narong says he “does not approve” of Yona Beach Club’s plans and has ordered officials to carry out inspections and meet with the club’s owners.

The vessel has spent the past two weeks on a PR charm offensive, inviting media and influencers to visit the boat while it’s been moored in Patong Bay.

Meanwhile, Capt. Krit Kluebmat of the Maritime Enforcement Command Center says officials from Kathu District Office and Patong Municipality Office also oppose the idea, claiming the boat will cause environmental damage and create too much noise. Continued …

Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments

Thailand is known for its tropical climate, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of natural remedies. Historically, Thai herbs and natural remedies have been used to treat a wide variety of ailments.

From digestive problems to skin issues, Thai herbs and natural remedies can help provide relief and promote better health overall. Here is a list of some of the most commonly used Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments.

Kaffir Lime

Kaffir lime is a citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia. It has a distinct, strong aroma and flavor that is used to add a unique taste to dishes. It is often used as an ingredient in Thai and other Southeast Asian cuisines. Continued …

Chatuchak weekend market

Where to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok

Bangkok is an amazing city with a variety of delicious and healthy food. Whether you are looking for fresh produce, organic items or just some good deals, there are many great places to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok. From bustling street markets to large supermarkets, you are sure to find something that fits your needs and budget.

Some of the best places to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok include Chatuchak Market, Makro, Big C, Tesco Lotus, the Tops Supermarket, and the Natural Food Market. With these great options, you can find everything you need for a healthy and affordable diet in Bangkok.

Chatuchak weekend market

This market is a true Bangkok experience – a shopper’s paradise with over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to food. With its bustling atmosphere and endless variety of goods, it is no wonder the Chatuchak Weekend Market (JJ Market) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok. Continued …

Thailand clarifies all measures to control Covid as tourism surges

The National Communicable Diseases Committee on Thursday approved the government’s revised measures for controlling Covid-19, including tests on arriving tourists with obvious symptoms of the disease, and charging fees for vaccinating tourists who voluntarily request shots.

The decisions were made at the committee’s first meeting of the year, which was chaired by Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

It followed an earlier decision by the government to reimpose proof of vaccination for all foreign tourists ahead of the imminent return of tourists from China. That decision was, however, quickly scrapped. Some confusion resulted, so the committee provided a detailed list of its preparations for ensuring Covid-19 remains under control as tourism surges. Continued …

Seniors urged to get two booster jabs this year

The Department of Disease Control is urging senior citizens and individuals with chronic diseases to get two doses of Covid-19 vaccine this year as a precaution against coronavirus infections.

DDC chief Tares Krassanairawiwong said the elderly and those living with chronic conditions should get a booster ahead of the upcoming rainy season, and another before the cooler weather arrives toward the end of the year. Continued … 

Study linking asthma and cooking gas stirs debate

New research that links cooking with natural gas to around 12% of childhood asthma cases has sparked debate about the health risks of kitchen stoves, as well as calls in the United States for stepped-up regulation. Continued … 

Scientists sound alarm as ocean temperatures hit new record

The world’s oceans, which have absorbed most of the excess heat caused by humanity’s carbon pollution, continued to see record-breaking temperatures last year, according to research published Wednesday. Continued … 

Putin signals impatience over Ukraine war in commander switch

President Vladimir Putin’s move to replace his top commander in Ukraine is a sign of military disarray and his growing impatience in a war Russia is not winning, analysts said. Continued … 

Chinese cities to pay people to have children

With China on track to record its first population decline in more than six decades, cities across the country have announced new cash incentives to encourage couples to have more children. Continued … 

Tell-all book ‘Spare’ sells record 1.4M copies on day one

Prince Harry’s memoir sold a “record” 1.4 million copies in just 24 hours, its publisher said on Thursday, as his father and brother kept calm and carried on with public visits. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets 

 

90-day online reporting

 

chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Jan 11

  • The World’s Most (and Least) Powerful Passports in 2023/World Bank: Recession a looming threat for global economy/Casino project to be reviewed tomorrow/SRT suspends scandal-hit signboard project at Bangkok’s central station/Banpu NEXT continues to provide solar power to electricity-deprived schools/Super-resistant mosquitoes in Asia pose growing threat/Friendship Bridge to Myanmar now ready for reopening/List of top herbs eyed for export/ID soon required to buy cannabis buds/
  • Tourism: Compulsory health insurance now not required/Krungthai Compass predicts 22.5M foreign arrivals in 2023/May 5 Announced as Special Public Holiday/Chinese heading to Phuket, Chiang Mai/
  • Thailand Experience: Fancy Thai desserts with odd names/7 must-see festivals in Thailand you don’t want to miss/Ghosts in Thailand: some eerie sites to explore/
  • Covid: Thailand’s Covid-19 numbers drop in first week of 2023/China targets Korea, Japan over Covid curbs/Mainland Chinese citizens are eager to travel — for the West’s mRNA Covid vaccines/
  • International: French pension reforms potentially explosive/Extreme weather caused $165 billion in US damage in 2022/NATO, EU vow more support for Ukraine/Russia hits Ukraine’s Kharkiv after German minister visits
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

The World’s Most (and Least) Powerful Passports in 2023

As we enter the new year, the latest results from the Henley Passport Index provide fascinating insights into a world characterized by extraordinary upheaval and offer a revealing look at what lies ahead.

For the fifth year running, Japan crowns the index, which is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA) and ranks all the world’s 199 passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.

Japanese citizens can now visit an astonishing 193 destinations out of 227 visa-free, while those of South Korea and Singapore, which are tied in second place, enjoy a visa-free/visa-on-arrival score of 192. Continued …

World Bank: Recession a looming threat for global economy

The global economy will come “perilously close” to a recession this year, led by weaker growth in all the world’s top economies — the United States, Europe and China, the World Bank warned on Tuesday.

In an annual report, the World Bank, which lends money to poorer countries for development projects, said it had slashed its forecast for global growth this year by nearly half, to just 1.7%, from its previous projection of 3%.

If that forecast proves accurate, it would be the third-weakest annual expansion in three decades, behind only the deep recessions that resulted from the 2008 global financial crisis and the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Continued …

Casino project to be reviewed tomorrow

A report by a special House committee studying the feasibility of allowing an entertainment complex to be built that includes legal casinos is expected to be deliberated tomorow, a member of the committee said yesterday.

Aimed at raising tax revenue from legalizing gambling businesses in a yet-to-be-designated area, the project has been studied by the House committee since late last year, added the source.

If approved, the report will be forwarded to the government for consideration, the person said. Continued … 

SRT suspends scandal-hit signboard project at Bangkok’s central station

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) abruptly suspended the scandal-hit 33-million-baht project to change signboards at Bangkok’s Bang Sue Grand Station on Tuesday.

SRT Gov. Nirut Maneephan signed the order to suspend the project, which includes changing the main signboard at Thailand’s new rail hub to “Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal”, the official name granted by His Majesty the King in September last year.

The order was addressed to the managing director of Unique Engineering and Construction Plc, which won the contract bidding with a proposed price of 33.16 million baht. The SET-listed company signed the contract with SRT on Dec. 29. Continued … 

Banpu NEXT continues to provide solar power to electricity-deprived schools

With a belief that “Learning is the Power of Change and Development”, Banpu NEXT is making continuous progress in its “Light & Learn” project by bringing solar power systems to electricity-deprived schools in remote areas to help light up learning opportunities and benefit the children.

Most recently, the company took its employees on a field visit to join forces with highland teaching volunteers on the solar power system and storage battery installation for Ban Po Por Kee HACLC in Tak Province and hold edutainment activities for the children, which creatively taught them to appreciate nature and clean energy.

Over the past five years, it has already installed solar power systems for 73 schools in Tak, Mae Hong Son, and Kanchanaburi provinces. Continued …

Super-resistant mosquitoes in Asia pose growing threat

Mosquitoes that transmit dengue and other viruses have evolved growing resistance to insecticides in parts of Asia, and novel ways to control them are desperately needed, new research warns.

Health authorities commonly fog mosquito-infested areas with clouds of insecticide, and resistance has long been a concern, but the scale of the problem was not well understood.

Japanese scientist Shinji Kasai and his team examined mosquitoes from several countries in Asia, as well as Ghana, and found a series of mutations had made some virtually impervious to popular pyrethroid-based chemicals like permethrin. Continued …

Friendship Bridge to Myanmar now ready for reopening

The Friendship Bridge linking Thailand and Myanmar reopens tomorrow, much to the delight of eager traders who have waited three years for the resumption of border trade stalled by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Provincial authorities held a meeting yesterday to prepare for the reopening of the bridge, which crosses the Moei River at Ban Rim Moei in Mae Sot district opposite Myawaddy in Myanmar.

Surapol Wongsukpisal, Tak deputy governor, led the meeting, also attended by Somchai Traithipchartsakul, Mae Sot district chief, and heads of the security and administrative agencies. Continued … 

List of top herbs eyed for export

The Public Health Ministry has unveiled its list of so-called “herbal champions”, but cannabis, hemp and kratom have been omitted, according to the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine.

Dr. Thongchai Lertwilairattanapong, the department chief, said yesterday the government plans to promote local herbs under the list and ideally develop them for export. Herbs on the list include turmeric, krachai dam or black galingal, and fah talai jone or green chiretta.

He said cannabis, hemp and kratom have not yet made the cut after a policy committee on national herbs led by Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul agreed recently that their use must be limited, adding further research and development is required. Continued … 

ID soon required to buy cannabis buds

Thai nationals seeking to purchase cannabis buds will soon have to show their ID cards, with sales information recorded on a government database, according to the Department for the Development of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM).

Thongchai Lertwilairattanapong, the department’s director-general, said he had signed the directive and it would take effect as soon as it is published in the Royal Gazette.

It is not known whether foreigners seeking to buy cannabis buds will have to show ID such as a passport. A recent health ministry publication, “10 Things Tourists Need to Know about Cannabis in Thailand”, makes no mention of any requirement. Continued …

Compulsory health insurance now not required

The public health minister, via the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, has canceled the requirement for foreign arrivals, from countries which require PCR tests on return, to have at least US$10,000 health insurance coverage for the duration of their holiday, plus seven days.

The requirement for proof of Covid vaccinations, to present while checking in for your flight to Thailand, has also been scrapped. It was in response to complaints from Thai tourism associations, foreign embassies and travel groups who say the measures, originally imposed on Jan. 7, would discourage many people from visiting Thailand.

Social media has been full of people being turned away at check-in, concerned travelers canceling trips and people just confused about the original regulations and then the sudden reversal of policy. Continued …

Krungthai Compass predicts 22.5M foreign arrivals in 2023

Krungthai Compass, a research unit under Krungthai Bank, expects foreign tourist arrivals in 2023 to more than double the number recorded last year, estimating it will take two years to return to the level posted in 2019.

The research house forecasts foreign arrivals this year to tally 22.5 million, up from 10.2 million expected for 2022.

Of the total, Krungthai Compass anticipates 4.8 million visitors will be Chinese nationals, a 20% increase from its previous forecast of 4 million, attributed to China’s reopening since Jan. 8 this year, said chief economist Patcharaphot Nuntramas. Continued …

May 5 Announced as Special Public Holiday

The government has announced May 5 as a special public holiday, creating a 4-day weekend break. The government hopes the long holiday will help boost the economy through various tourism activities.

During their weekly meeting, Cabinet members approved the decision to bridge the holiday gap between Coronation Day on Thursday, May 4, and the weekend.

Government spokesperson Traisuree Traisaranakul said the combined 4-day break is expected to help push forward economic activities, particularly in the business and tourism sectors. Continued …

Chinese heading to Phuket, Chiang Mai

Both Chiang Mai and Phuket are expecting to see a significant rise in air travel on direct flights from China from Jan. 18, according to local airport authorities.

There will be one direct flight daily from China to Chiang Mai and three a day to Phuket, with non-stop air links to keep rising between the two countries.

A flight between Shanghai and Chiang Mai is due to begin operating on Jan. 18, with another from Guangzhou to Chiang Mai to start two days later, Wichit Kaeosaithiam, the director of Chiang Mai airport, said yesterday. Continued …

Fancy Thai desserts with odd names

If you like unnecessarily posh names, you’ll love Ban Nong Bua, an old community in Thailand’s East.

The canal-side village in Chanthaburi province is drawing visitors and those with a sweet tooth for its desserts with strange names, including “Monkey Willy” (a mung bean rice crepe in a phallic shape). It’s a funny but tasty sweet that will have you searching for more idiosyncrasies of old-school cooks.

Located 10 kilometers south of Chanthaburi, the village of Ban Nong Bua has been home to Hainanese descendants for over 200 years. Their forefathers, seafarers, sailed from Hainan Island in Southern China to the horizon and eventually settled down along the mouth of the Chanthaburi River. Continued …

7 must-see festivals in Thailand you don’t want to miss

Songkran, Loi Krathong, Yi Peng, Loy Krathong Yipeng, Chak Phra and Rocket Festivals are some of the most popular traditional festivals celebrated in Thailand. Each festival has its own unique history and meaning and is celebrated with much enthusiasm and joy by both locals and tourists.

From the water fights of Songkran to the magical sight of sky lanterns during Yi Peng, each festival offers something special and memorable. At the Rocket Festival, the launching of handmade rockets is a symbol of asking the gods for bountiful rains and a good harvest. Celebrate the culture of Thailand and join in the festivities of these traditional festivals.

Songkran Festival

The Songkran Festival is an important event in Thailand and is celebrated with great enthusiasm by locals and tourists alike. The festival marks the start of the traditional Thai New Year and is celebrated with a variety of activities. Continued …

Ghosts in Thailand: some eerie sites to explore

Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich culture, but it also has a dark side. Thai culture has long believed in ghosts, some good, some bad.

A large percentage of people in modern life are still afraid of ghosts in Thailand and, as such, the country has some infamously haunted and eerie places. Here are a few of the ghostliest places in Thailand, where you might catch a glimpse of a phantom apparition:

The Old Phuket Town Ghost House

Located in the Old Phuket Town area, this abandoned house is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who committed suicide there. Visitors to the house have reported strange noises, unexplained movements, and even the feeling of being watched. Some have even claimed to have seen the ghost herself, often described as a woman with long, flowing hair and a sad expression on her face. Continued …

Thailand’s Covid-19 numbers drop in first week of 2023

Thailand’s Covid-19 situation appears to have improved, with the number of hospitalizations during the first week of this year falling by half from the previous week.

Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, director-general of the Department of Disease Control (DDC), said on Tuesday that 997 Covid patients had been hospitalized in the first week of January, averaging at about 142 per day. He said this was half the daily average compared to the last week of 2022, without elaborating.

As of press time, 382 Covid patients were in hospital for lung infections, while 242 of them were on ventilators. However, Tares said the number of lung infections and patients requiring ventilators has dropped by 28% and 30%, respectively, compared to the previous week. Continued …

China targets South Korea, Japan over Covid curbs

China has suspended issuing some visas for South Korea and Japan in Beijing’s first retaliation against Covid-related curbs on Chinese travelers.

Chinese consulates in South Korea will stop issuing short-term visas for visits, business, tourism, medical care, transit and personal matters from Tuesday, the Chinese Embassy in Seoul said in a statement.

The suspension will be adjusted if South Korea removes its “discriminative inbound restrictive measures” targeting China, it added. Continued …

Mainland Chinese citizens are eager to travel — for the West’s mRNA Covid vaccines

Mainland China’s move away from its zero-Covid policy has led to a sharp surge in infections, and the resumption of travel means some are looking farther afield for vaccines.

In mid-December, China’s full Covid vaccination rate stood near 87%, with 54% boosted. The main Covid vaccines approved for use in China are from Sinovac and Sinopharm.

Mainlanders have been flocking to Macao in recent months for Western mRNA vaccines, which are widely administered around the world but not endorsed by China. Continued …

French pension reforms potentially explosive

The French government is set to announce its proposals for overhauling the pension system on Tuesday, in a potentially explosive reform fraught with danger for President Emmanuel Macron. Continued … 

Extreme weather caused $165 billion in US damage in 2022

Major hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, drought and a fierce winter storm caused more than $165 billion in damage in the United States last year, with climate change “supercharging” some extreme weather, a government report said Tuesday. Continued … 

NATO, EU vow more support for Ukraine

NATO and the EU vowed Tuesday to bolster their backing for Ukraine to fight off Russia’s invasion and ramp up cooperation between Europe and the U.S.-led alliance. Continued … 

Russia hits Ukraine’s Kharkiv after German minister visits

Russian strikes hit eastern Ukraine’s city of Kharkiv late Tuesday, the regional governor said, just hours after a surprise visit by the German foreign minister with her Ukrainian counterpart. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets 

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Jan 9

  • New entry rules to Thailand – effective today/Hua Hin’s ‘boardwalk’ – a dream for some/Comedy show, free concert coming to Hua Hin/Thai electricity bills to get slightly cheaper from January/New point system for motorists takes effect today/Man who shot Brit turns himself in to Pattaya police/Bangkok’s New Rail Service Terminal In Operation From Jan 19/Thailand ranked 1st in ASEAN in Sustainable Development Report/Shaking up the EV market/Man jailed for killing and eating dogs he kept in his home/British man claims he was tortured in Thailand jail/
  • Tourism: Covid chaos descends again on Thailand’s foreign tourism sector/Thailand’s new regulations keeping tourists away, say tour agencies/Some visitors must show minimum US$10,000 health insurance/Will Chinese arrivals overwhelm Thailand’s healthcare sector?/Chinese tourism set to surge as 15 airlines open routes to Thailand/What the return of Chinese tourists means for the global economy/Medical tourism in Thailand expected to generate over 25 billion baht in 2023/Brit tourist blamed for damaged Thai art, refuses to pay/
  • Thailand Experience: Get lucky at Wat Doi Suthep, the famous Chiang Mai temple/
  • Covid: Free COVID-19 vaccinations stepped up ahead of increased foreign arrivals/
  • International: ASEAN poised for starring role in global economy this year/Bolsonaro supporters storm Brazil Congress, presidential palace/2 men found frozen in the belly of Colombian plane/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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

New entry rules to Thailand – effective today

The requirement that all international travelers show proof of full Covid-19 vaccination before boarding flights to Thailand took effect from Sunday, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) said on Saturday.

The aviation regulator has formally notified all parties about the change to arrival rules for international travelers aged 18 and over. They will take effect for flights landing in Thailand from 1am local time on Monday and will remain in effect at least until the end of the month.

The vaccination requirement was scrapped last October but it has been revived as travel from China is about to resume worldwide on a large scale. Many countries have responded with special measures out of concern that Covid-19 is sweeping through China since the country scrapped its zero-Covid restrictions last month. Continued …

Hua Hin’s ‘boardwalk’ – a dream for some

It’s the closest thing Hua Hin has to a boardwalk – Naresdamri Road in downtown Hua Hin, the approximately 500 meter stretch of road that runs from the fishing pier to the Chinese temple located close to the Hilton Hotel.

In decades gone by, it was originally the hub of Hua Hin’s fishing community, and while that is still true to some extent, the area is now home to a range of restaurants, guesthouses and other tourism-related businesses.

Video 

However, recent years have seen a partial redevelopment of the area. The redevelopment has been somewhat “stop/start” to say the least. Continued …

Comedy show, free concert coming to Hua Hin

Stand-up comedy is coming to town for the first time in Hua Hin on Jan. 21 at the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. A roster of some of the funniest international comedians are scheduled to appear.

Meanwhile, on Jan. 14. Swedish band DUO Jag will perform a free concert at Black Mountain Golf Club, starting ay 6pm.

There are only 70 tickets available for the Jan. 21 Hua Hin Comedy Show, which starts at 8pm. Very early bird tickets at 400 baht can be purchased until Jan. 15; early bird tickets are 500 baht, and tickets at the door ar 600 baht. BOOK TICKETS 

Thai electricity bills to get slightly cheaper from January

The Energy Regulatory Commission has relented to complaints about rising power bills and agreed to reduce its service fee slightly from this month.

Consumers who use more than 150 units per month and those who are charged under the time of use (ToU) rate during off-peak hours will find their monthly service charge reduced from 38.22 baht to 24.62 baht.

Small businesses using low-voltage power are eligible for a new service charge of 33.39 baht per month, down from 46.16 baht. Continued …

New point system for motorists takes effect today

Traffic police will start enforcing a new point system for motorists today, but it will be implemented gradually, with education being the initial priority, a senior officer said on Saturday.

The point system aims to improve compliance with traffic laws, reduce accidents, and increase road safety, Highway Police Division commander Maj-General Ekkarat Limsangkat said.

Each motorist will start with 12 points. Violations of traffic laws will result in the deduction of points, with the most severe offenses resulting in the biggest deductions. Continued …

Man who shot Brit turns himself in to Pattaya police

A 32-year-old man turned himself in to police for shooting dead a retired British engineer in Chon Buri’s Bang Lamung district, saying he acted in a fit of anger after the victim honked a motorcycle horn at him and hit his car.

Apicha Boonsawat contacted police about his surrender at about 9am yesterday before police took him to Huai Yai station for detention and questioning. Continued …

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

Bangkok’s New Rail Service Terminal In Operation From Jan 19

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has officially announced the relocation – effective from Jan. 19, of 52 long-distance, rapid, and express train services from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to the new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal.

From this date onward, people will need to catch their trains to other destinations throughout Thailand from the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, while the inbound trains to Bangkok will also arrive there. This includes 14 train services to the north, 20 to the south, and 18 to the northeast (Isan).

The Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal is the new main train station of Thailand designed to be a major rail transportation hub. Located near the famous Chatuchak weekend market, it is close to both the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway networks, making for convenient travel around Bangkok, and to the Bangkok bus terminal (Chatuchak). Continued …

Thailand ranked 1st in ASEAN in Sustainable Development Report

Thailand has been ranked first in ASEAN in the latest Sustainable Development Report by United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UNSDSN).

The report assesses 193 UN member states on their progress toward achieving the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) and calculates their percentage of achievement. 100% indicates that all SDGs have been achieved.

Thailand ranked first in ASEAN and 44th in the world with 74.1%, ahead of Vietnam (72.8%), Singapore (71.7%), Malaysia (70.4%), Indonesia (69.2%), Brunei (67.1%), Philippines (66.6%), Myanmar (64.3%), Cambodia (63.8%) and Laos (63.4%). Continued … 

Shaking up the EV market

The entry of more Chinese electric vehicle (EV) producers into the Thai market is not only improving sentiment among buyers, as they can choose from a wider variety of models, but it is also testing their brand loyalty.

Thais have long been enamored with cars produced by Japanese and European companies, eager to buy their products and services.

With the shift from internal combustion engines to battery-powered vehicles, the question is whether consumers will buy new technology from familiar brands, or take the plunge with Chinese entrants. Continued … 

Man jailed for killing and eating dogs he kept in his home

A man in Chalerm Prakiat district of Nakhon Si Thammarat has been arrested and sentenced by a local court to three months in prison for slaughtering dogs and using their meat for cooking, according to the Soi Dog Foundation.

The not-for-profit organization said a dog sterilization team had recently rescued an injured puppy that had escaped from a house that neighbors told the team was owned by a former drug addict whom they said had been killing and eating his dogs.

The foundation sought help from the police and six dogs were rescued during a search, and they also found the remains of many others. Continued …

British man claims he was tortured in Thailand jail

A British national claims he was beaten and tortured by police in a Thai jail while incarcerated abroad.

Carl Gentry-Evans, 51, was on vacation in Phuket, southern Thailand, when a local gang targeted him and drugged his drink, turning his life upside down.

The unsuspecting Southampton man lost almost everything in the incident, including four teeth, according to images obtained by a newspaper, which tell a dramatic story. Continued …

Covid chaos descends again on Thailand’s foreign tourism sector

Last Thursday, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced new restrictions on incoming tourists to Thailand in response to the reopening of the Chinese market.

This includes a requirement that all arrivals must be vaccinated. Over the weekend, it became clear that the new regime would be going into effect on Sunday concerning all incoming flights after Monday at 1 am, with international airlines tasked with screening passengers when boarding flights and instructed to deny passage to unvaccinated passengers.

The situation has sent waves of chaos throughout the foreign tourism industry, with travel agents in France, Germany, Scandinavia and Russia warning that confidence in Thailand as a tourist destination has been damaged as thousands of passengers stand to lose money with thousands of holiday night bookings already withdrawn in Phuket alone. Continued …

Thailand’s new regulations keeping tourists away, say tour agencies

The government’s new regulations for foreign arrivals is badly affecting the tourism industry, the Phuket Tourist Assn.’s chief said.

Phukmit Raktaengam said on Sunday that the latest 7-point notice to airmen (Notam) announced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has caused many tourists to cancel their trips.

The CAAT regulations require airlines to check if all passengers have had at least two Covid-19 vaccines before letting them board flights to Thailand. Continued …

Some visitors must show minimum US$10,000 health insurance

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) from today will require visitors whose next destinations require proof of a negative Covid-19 test to show health insurance coverage worth at least US$10,000.

Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob said on Sunday the CAAT’s notice requires visitors who must test negative for Covid-19 before leaving Thailand to show proof of health insurance coverage worth at least $10,000 in case the test leads to Covid-19 treatment. Continued …

Will Chinese arrivals overwhelm Thailand’s healthcare sector?

While several countries have imposed stringent COVID-control measures on travelers from China, Thailand has decided to welcome them with open arms despite concerns about its healthcare sector being overwhelmed.

(A high percentage of passengers on flights from China have tested positive for COVID-19 upon arrival in several countries.)

China dropped quarantine rules yesterday, signaling that its people can resume outbound travel without restrictions.

While this move may sound like good news for both Chinese travelers and tourism-dependent economies like Thailand, it has triggered international concern over the surging COVID-19 infection rate in China. Continued …

Chinese tourism set to surge as 15 airlines open routes to Thailand

The long-awaited return of Chinese tourists will be a surge, as the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has given permission for 15 Chinese carriers to fly from major cities in China to Thailand from Sunday.

After enduring more than two years of lockdowns and restrictions on travel, citizens of the world’s most populous nation are rushing to take advantage of the relaxation of China’s zero-Covid-19 policy to travel abroad, and Thailand remains a preferred destination.

Thailand welcomed more than 11 million Chinese tourists in 2019, the year before the Covid-19 pandemic paralyzed air travel. Continued …

What the return of Chinese tourists means for the global economy

In the years before Covid, China was the world’s most important source of international travelers. Its 155 million tourists spent more than a quarter of a trillion dollars beyond its borders in 2019.

That largesse fell precipitously over the past three years as the country essentially closed its borders. But, as China prepared to reopen on Sunday, millions of tourists are poised to return to the world stage, raising hopes of a rebound for the global hospitality industry.

Although international travel may not return immediately to pre-pandemic levels, companies, industries and countries that rely on Chinese tourists will get a boost in 2023, according to analysts. Continued …

Medical tourism in Thailand expected to generate over 25 billion baht in 2023

The medical tourism industry in Thailand has shown good signs of growth since the decline of the COVID-19 pandemic. ttb analytics, a division of TMBThanachart, has recently forecast that medical tourism in Thailand would generate revenue of over 25 billion baht (700 million USD) in 2023.

According to ttb analytics, Thailand has become one of the world’s major medical destinations thanks to its reputation for good healthcare management and security. It has been shown on the Johns Hopkins University’s 2021 Global Health Security (GHS) Index that Thailand was ranked fifth place out of 195 countries, and first in Asia, in its ability to respond to pandemics and epidemics.

The forecast also declared that the global trends in wellness tourism and innovations in medical technology would lead to good opportunities for Thailand to enhance its medical tourism industry, since the country has health professionals of high capability, as well as international-standard hospitals and relatively inexpensive costs for medical expenses. – PRD

Brit tourist blamed for damaged Thai art, refuses to pay

The chief of the Thai cultural affairs department, Dr. Apinan Posyananda was furious, along with many art lovers, after an albino water buffalo at the Bangkok Biennale 2022 art show was destroyed. It was “Kwai Calm” by artist Maitree Siriboon.

Apinan said that several German and British tourists were “having a great time”.

He named one 34-year-old Brit for allegedly destroying the buffalo after climbing on it. Then, he said the tourists refused to apologize or pay for the damage. Continued …

Get lucky at Wat Doi Suthep, the famous Chiang Mai temple

If you know what’s what in Thailand, you’ll know a wat is a temple, and that wats are the why when it comes to Chiang Mai.

Still with me? The key thing to know is that it’s all in the name. Wat Doi Suthep. The temple on Suthep Mountain. It’s probably the northern Thai city’s most famous site, its gold-plated stupa visible from the town in the valley below, shining out of the jungle.

I didn’t need our guide, Khun Nao to tell me it was high up. Our van took half an hour to putter up the steep road from the city, passing more dedicated pilgrims on foot and bicycle. Continued …

Free COVID-19 vaccinations stepped up ahead of increased foreign arrivals

Due to an anticipated increase in foreign arrivals, Chinese tourists in particular, everyone, especially those over 60, people with chronic diseases, pregnant women, those who weigh over 90kg, small children and those who have not been vaccinated, have been urged to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or to get booster shots.

COVID-19 infections are on the rise in several provinces. In the northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima, for instance, over 600 cases were reported last week alone, with 14 fatalities, most of whom were unvaccinated.

The vaccination services are free of charge for Thais and foreigners at state hospitals or health centers nationwide. Continued … 

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

ASEAN poised for starring role in global economy this year

Key ASEAN economies will be among the few globally to show impressive growth this year, as the world economy slips into slower growth or a recession, according to a recently published report by one of the largest banks in Southeast Asia – Singapore-headquartered United Overseas Bank (UOB). Continued … 

Bolsonaro supporters storm Brazil Congress, presidential palace

Supporters of Brazil’s far-right ex-president Jair Bolsonaro pushed through police barricades and stormed into the national Congress building Sunday in a dramatic protest against President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva’s inauguration last week. Continued … 

2 men found frozen in the belly of Colombian plane

An aircraft maintenance technician in Colombia made a shocking discovery. Under the belly of an Avianca plane at the airport in Bogota, the bodies of two young men were frozen to death. The airline technician was inspecting and performing regular maintenance on the aircraft of Colombia’s flagship airline when he was horrified by the corpses. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets 

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hospitality, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Jsn 4

  • New Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule/Bangkok’s new train terminus renamed, to open Jan 19/Bt33M for new train station logo redesign and sign?/Property sector hopes for turnaround in 2023/ ‘New Year gifts’ for people in the Deep South/6,992 Drunk-Driving Cases Recorded in 6 Days/Road accidents kill 40 more people, holiday death toll climbs to 263/Devotees climb into coffins for Thailand’s strangest New Year ceremony/Embittered Thai craft beer brewers plead for justice/
  • Tourism: Post-Covid tourism plan gets green light/Health Minister Assures: No Lockdown when China Re-opens Borders/Chinese tourist surge unlikely this month/Thai hotels see positive growth as tourists start returning/Nearly 12 million foreign tourists visited Thailand last year/Indian tourists cancel Thailand trips after govt imposes Covid test/Cabinet to mull revised subsidy for domestic travel/Phuket focuses on foreigners causing motorbike accidents/New handbook on marijuana consumption for tourists in Thailand/Police arrest two Russians for begging on the streets of southern Thailand/
  • Covid: Beijing threatens response to ‘unacceptable’ virus measures/
  • International: Singapore explores underground space to protect nation against rising sea levels/Did a fourth-grader write this, or Chatbot?/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

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

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

New Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare in 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht.

Tickets 

Bangkok’s new train terminus renamed, to open Jan 19

The Krung Thep Aphiwat Train Terminal, previously known as Bang Sue Grand Station, will be officially opened on Jan. 19, with the maiden Bangkok-Ayutthaya air-conditioned diesel train for tourists slated as the inaugural service.

According to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the first train will leave the station for Ayutthaya at 1.19pm, to be followed by another maiden service, the Bangkok-Sungai Kolok express train.

All 52 long-haul trains serving the southern, northern and north-eastern routes will be relocated from Hua Lamphong, Bangkok’s old main terminal, to Krung Thep Aphiwat Train Terminal. Continued …

Bt33M for new train station logo redesign and sign?

The Transport Ministry has ordered an investigation into a 33-million-baht contract for a nameplate and logo redesign of Bang Sue Grand Station after concerns were raised about the project’s cost.

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) signed the contract with Unique Engineering and Construction Plc (UNIQ) for the redesign project, which includes the installation of a new logo for the station and 24 three-meter-tall Thai letters.
The redesign follows His Majesty the King renaming the Grand Station “Krung Thep Abhiwat Central Terminal” in September. Continued …

Property sector hopes for turnaround in 2023

Thailand’s real estate sector did not fully recover in 2022, due mainly to the economic decline and the impacts of the Russia-Ukraine war, as well as higher inflation and interest rates. But while the expected recovery did not happen, the overall outlook gives new hope for 2023.

The improved CCI (Consumer Confidence Index), which has continued to rise for six consecutive years, currently stands at 47.9, the highest in 20 years, signaling that consumers’ spending confidence is back.

Another factor that has supported the property industry is the Bank of Thailand’s continued loan relaxation (loan-to-value: LTV), which is about to end. It has successfully encouraged customers with real demand to purchase property units. Continued … 

‘New Year gifts’ for people in the Deep South

The Thai cabinet agreed yesterday to present “New Year gifts” to people in the Deep South. They include a free lunch program for children attending religious schools, nutritional food and vitamin supplements for mothers and their children, promotion of the learning of foreign languages, and development of language skills among students.

Another “gift” from the government is the promotion of the restive provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat and four districts in Songkhla as “the world’s Halal food and services hub.”

Deputy government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said the government intends to solve the nutrition problem among small children in the Deep South by providing nutritional food and vitamin supplements to about 46,000 mothers and young children. Continued …

6,992 Drunk-Driving Cases Recorded in 6 Days

There were 6,992 drunk-driving cases in six days and the country needed serious measures on the wrongdoers, according to the director-general of the Probation Department.

Weerakit Harnpariphan, director-general of the department, said courts ordered probation for 6,992 drunk-driving cases from Dec. 29 to Jan 3, 2023. They formed 96.1% of the 7,277 cases in which probation was ordered during the same period. Continued …

Road accidents kill 40 more people, holiday death toll climbs to 263

Road accidents on Monday claimed 40 lives, taking the total death toll in the first five of the so-called “7 dangerous days” to 263, the Road Safety Center said yesterday.

Boontham Lertsukhikasem, director-general of the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department and secretary-general of the center, said 294 road accidents had occurred on Monday, which left 295 people injured and 40 dead.

The center has been monitoring road accidents since Dec. 29 and will keep a close eye on roads through today, when the New Year break wraps up. Continued … 

Devotees climb into coffins for Thailand’s strangest New Year ceremony

Every New Year holiday, people pour into Wat Takian temple on the western outskirts of Bangkok to participate in a strange ceremony they believe will remove their bad luck and bring good fortune throughout the year.

Devotees of these spooky rites lie in open coffins with flowers and incense sticks clasped between their wai-ing hands, resembling corpses as they enter the crematorium.

Buddhist monks then chant prayers over the coffins while those inside devote the merit made to their deceased family members. Once the ceremony is completed, participants consider themselves reborn and freed from bad luck, ready to start their new year afresh. Continued … 

Embittered Thai craft beer brewers plead for justice

With the onerous liquor laws that have let just a few large breweries dominate the market and have forbidden entry by small-scale newcomers for decades, Chiang Mai native Saksit Sanguanphon was forced to fulfill his dream to produce his own artisanal craft beer somewhere else. He went to Laos.

As it is for other Thai entrepreneurs, running a small-sized craft beer business is a struggle for Saksit. It all began with a long bus journey from Bangkok to Savannakhet almost a decade ago.

“I took a Nakhon Chai Air bus at 8pm from Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, slept over in Mukdahan and arrived in Savannakhet at six in the evening the day after,” Saksit recalls. Continued …

Post-Covid tourism plan gets green light

The cabinet yesterday approved a blueprint for tourism development over the course of the next five years, with a plan to push for Thailand to be among the world’s top wellness destinations among several ambitious goals.

Deputy government spokeswoman Traisulee Taisaranakul said the cabinet had approved its third national tourism development plan for 2023-2027.

The plan will serve as a guideline for relevant agencies at national and local levels to map out action plans for tourism development, Traisulee said. Continued …

Health Minister Assures: No Lockdown when China Re-opens Borders

The Thai Minister of Public Health announced yesterday Thailand will not implement lockdown or strict regulations in response to the easing of harsh travel restrictions that is soon to take effect in China next Sunday.

Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters that he has decided at a meeting with the Medical Affairs Committee that Thailand will not implement any specific measures against Chinese arrivals, as the country already has effective measures in place.

As for testing for the coronavirus, Anutin said it is “unnecessary,” adding if there is any medical issue, we leave it to the Department of Disease Control, which is responsible for disease prevention and surveillance, to determine the necessary measures without causing harm to the country’s economic system.” Continued …

Chinese tourist surge unlikely this month

An influx of Chinese tourists is unlikely during the coming Lunar New Year holiday, as not enough flights can be added in such a short time, while large tour groups are still awaiting an official announcement from the Chinese government, according to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA).

ATTA President Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn said only small groups of friends and families are expected to travel when entry restrictions on the mainland are lifted on Jan. 8, as direct flights remain limited, with prices much higher than pre-pandemic rates of 10,000-20,000 baht.

“It is too soon to expect a massive Chinese flow in January, as seat capacity remains scarce,” said Sisdivachr. Continued … 

Thai hotels see positive growth as tourists start returning

Hotels in Thailand expect occupancy rates to start picking up in the second half of this year, especially since travel has become easier and China will lift restrictions from Sunday.

The Hotel Business Operator Sentiment Study, conducted by the Thai Hotel Assn. and the Bank of Thailand last month, shows that most hotels expect their revenue to rise by 10%-30%.

The study, which covered 95 hotels, showed that most operators expect to welcome more guests this year. Continued …

Nearly 12 million foreign tourists visited Thailand last year

As many as 11.81 million foreign tourists visited Thailand last year, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said yesterday.

Thai and foreign travelers were expected to generate 1.5 trillion baht in tourism revenue for the country last year, TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said.

He said most foreign visitors last year came from Malaysia (1.95 million), followed by India (965,994), Laos (844,959), Cambodia (591,657) and Singapore (589,770). Continued …

Indian tourists cancel Thailand trips after govt imposes Covid test

The Thai Hotels Assn. last night reported that tourists from India are canceling trips to Thailand in droves after their government insisted that returning travelers produce a negative Covid-19 test before reentering the country.

The new mandate has come as a shock to Indian holidaymakers, as the rest of the world contemplates what to do with returning Chinese tourists. China announced last month it is reopening its borders to foreign travelers on Sunday, Jan. 8, and scrapping quarantine rules.

Thai Hotels Assn. Eastern Chapter President Sanphet Supbowornsathian revealed the Indian government’s decision to produce negative RT-PCR tests has left many travelers reconsidering holidays to Thailand. Continued …

Cabinet to mull revised subsidy for domestic travel

A revised subsidy scheme to stimulate domestic tourism is set to go before the cabinet meeting next Tuesday.

According to Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, the ministry is scheduled to propose a revised budget worth 4 billion baht, with half of the budget allotted to support the fifth phase of the “Rao Tiew Duay Kan” (We Travel Together) hotel subsidy campaign to promote domestic tourism.

Of the total budget, 2 billion baht would be allocated for the fifth phase of the We Travel Together campaign to promote domestic tourism for a total of 500,000 rooms, he said. Continued … 

Phuket focuses on foreigners causing motorbike accidents

As Thailand sees the tail end of the dreaded “Seven Days of Danger”, where road accidents and death tend to spike over the new year holiday, officials in Phuket are focusing on the number of accidents involving foreigners on their roads.

At a briefing at the Phuket Provincial Hall, officials said that foreigners on holiday renting motorbikes and driving poorly or dangerously is a common denominator in the number of accidents reported on the island.

The briefing was delivered by the Chief of the Phuket Provincial Office of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation who went over the daily figures and discussed the issue with foreign motorbike drivers. Continued … 

New handbook on marijuana consumption for tourists in Thailand

The Public Health Ministry has come up with a guide called “10 Things Tourists Need to Know about Cannabis in Thailand” to help clarify doubts over the newly decriminalized plant.

The English-language guide is necessary as Thailand is the first Asian country to legalize marijuana and will attract foreigners interested in consuming cannabis-related products, the ministry’s deputy permanent secretary Dr. Narong Apikulwanich said yesterday.

The guide has been published on www.moph.go.th, while authorities in tourist provinces have also been instructed to publish handbooks for tourists. The handbook will soon be translated into other languages, including Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Russian. Continued …

Police arrest two Russians for begging on the streets of southern Thailand

Thai police arrested two Russian men yesterday for begging on the streets of Surat Thani in southern Thailand. The men held signs saying they are fleeing war in Russia.

Surat Thani Immigration officers, tourist police officers, and officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security jointly arrested 36-year-old Evgenii Malakhov and 32-year-old Alexander Kulikov at the Glowing Garden Fair near the Naris Bridge. Continued …

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

Beijing threatens response to ‘unacceptable’ virus measures

The Chinese government sharply criticized COVID-19 testing requirements imposed on visitors from China and threatened countermeasures against countries involved, which include the U.S. and several European nations.

“We believe that the entry restrictions adopted by some countries targeting China lack scientific basis, and some excessive practices are even more unacceptable,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily briefing yesterday.

“We are firmly opposed to attempts to manipulate the COVID measures for political purposes and will take countermeasures based on the principle of reciprocity,” she said. Mao did not specify what steps China might take. Continued …

Singapore explores underground space to protect nation against rising sea levels

National water agency PUB will explore the use of underground space to defend Singapore against rising sea levels amid climate change and more intense rainfall. The agency said last Thursday that a study to assess the feasibility of using an underground drainage and reservoir system to combat inland and coastal flooding will start in 2023. Continued … 

Did a fourth-grader write this, or Chatbot?

It’s hard to fully grasp the enormous potential of ChatGPT, a recently released artificial intelligence chatbot. The bot doesn’t just search and summarize information that already exists. It creates new content, tailored to your request, often with a startling degree of nuance, humor and creativity. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare in 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets 

 

90-day online reporting

chiang mai, covid, hua hin, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-Jan 3

  • January Hua Hin flight schedule/Six national parks to start e-ticketing from Saturday/IMF predicts a recession in Thailand/Economic chiefs promise brighter 2023 for Thailand despite gloomy world outlook/2023 positive for Thailand as EECO predicts full economic recovery/Agency to continue cost-of-living battle/Thailand’s property sector unfazed by inflation, expects a profitable 2023/‘7 dangerous days’ road toll rises to 218, 66 deaths on New Year’s Day/Nine Thais remain missing after casino blaze/
  • Tourism: New Thailand international travel curbs to be announced Jan 5/What China sudden reopening could mean for Thailand/Elephants: Covid and ethics reshape Thailand’s tourism industry/Phuket tourism on road to recovery/Patong Beach cleared of 12 tons of trash in New Year cleanup/
  • Thailand Experience: Life through the lens of a batik maker/
  • Covid: Fewer Covid-19 hospitalizations, deaths during Christmas week/Experts urge end to Covid fear as Chinese gates swing open/Why China’s Covid wave is stirring fear/
  • International: Airport Worker Killed By Being ‘Ingested Into The Engine’ Of Plane/Europe Sees ‘Unprecedented’ Winter Heat Wave As 2023 Begins/Floods In Philippines Leave 51 Dead/Moscow Says Ukrainian Rocket Strike Kills 63 Russian Troops/People Can Now Carry Guns Without A License In Half Of America’s States/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

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

Six national parks to start e-ticketing from Saturday

Six national parks will test e-ticketing from Saturday as an alternative to cash for tourists to pay entry fees, the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation announced on Monday.

The department said the e-tickets would be issued at Ao Phang Nga National Park, the Mu Ko Similan National Park, Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, Khao Yai National Park, Doi Inthanon National Park and Erawan National Park from Saturday in a pilot project.

The department said tourists can start buying e-tickets from Monday by using the QueQ app but the e-tickets can be showed to park officials at the entrance of the six national parks from Saturday onward. Continued …

IMF predicts a recession in Thailand

The head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts Thailand and Southeast Asian countries will suffer from recession this year along with the rest of the world.

Kristalina Georgieva said a third of the global economy will be in recession this year, including Thailand and Vietnam.

The Bulgarian economist reckons 2023 will be “tougher” than last year, as the United States, European Union, and China witness a slowdown of their economies. Continued … 

Economic chiefs promise brighter 2023 for Thailand despite gloomy world outlook

Thailand may enjoy what appears to be a stronger and brighter economic recovery in 2023 than it felt in 2022, according to Bank of Thailand Gov. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, who told an audience on Monday that GDP growth in 2023 will be driven primarily by foreign tourism, which has a broader and deeper impact on people’s pockets.

Minister of Finance Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, at the same time, highlighted the determination of the present government facing an election this year to stick to a prudent course by reining in public spending, while also raising taxes to address the country’s chronic issues of an aging society and private debt levels that are too high. All this would be achieved against a backdrop of a darker world economy with rising interest rates and lower economic growth. Continued …

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

2023 positive for Thailand as EECO predicts full economic recovery

The Thai economy should return to the pre-pandemic level by the middle of this year thanks to the recovery of the tourism sector and private consumption, the Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO) said.

The agency said on Monday that it believes the economy will expand by 3.8% this year.

“However, there is still the risk of declines in export due to rising production costs and high-interest rates,” EECO said. Continued …

Agency to continue cost-of-living battle

The Commerce Ministry vows to move ahead with plans to help reduce the cost of living for people this year despite inflationary pressure easing, as reflected by lower domestic prices of most products and services.

According to Internal Trade Department Director-general Wattanasak Sur-iam, the department is setting guidelines to manage product prices next year, focusing on continued requests to manufacturers to help maintain their product prices in order to alleviate the financial burden on consumers as the country’s economy recovers. Continued … 

Thailand’s property sector unfazed by inflation, expects a profitable 2023

As many as 120,000 residential units are expected to be snapped up this year despite rising inflation, property firm Supalai said in its latest prediction.

Supalai Director Prasas Tangmatitam said that listed real-estate companies had sold 115,902 units last year compared to 75,364 in 2021. He said this was a clear indicator of the property market’s expansion.

Prasas reckoned that the sale of property had risen because home buyers in the 26-30 age group had not been affected by the economic fallout of the Covid-19 crisis. Continued … 

‘7 dangerous days’ road toll rises to 218, 66 deaths on New Year’s Day

Road accidents on Sunday claimed 66 lives, bringing the total death toll in the first four of the so-called “7 dangerous days” to 218, the Road Safety Center announced on Monday.

Boontham Lertsukhikasem, director-general of the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department and secretary-general of the center, told the press that 478 road accidents had occurred on New Year’s Day on Sunday, in which 465 people were injured and 66 killed. Continued …

Nine Thais remain missing after casino blaze

Nine Thai nationals caught in the Cambodian hotel-casino blaze are still missing, Sa Kaeo authorities said on Monday.

The bodies of 19 Thai nationals who were killed by the blaze at the Grand Diamond City hotel-casino complex last week have been brought back to Thailand, said Thawatchai Boonsang, Aranyaprathet district’s senior deputy district chief and acting director of the Thai victims’ rescue operations center. Continued …

New Thailand international travel curbs to be announced Jan 5

Thailand’s Department of Disease Control has announced that a Cabinet decision is expected on Jan. 5 about new regulations for anyone entering Thailand by land, sea and air.

At the moment, Thai immigration police do not require to see Covid vaccination records or insurance documentation from arrivals: the only check is occasional random inspection by health officials of anyone coughing and sweating or reported by an airline to look potentially sick.

The Beijing’s government’s abrupt cancellation of its zero-tolerance Covid policy and opening up of its borders has already led to several countries imposing extra health restrictions on passengers arriving from China. Continued … 

What China sudden reopening could mean for Thailand

It was almost three years ago that the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Wuhan, China. The World Health Organization designated the outbreak a pandemic three months later and advised that steps be taken to stop the virus’s spread.

In these initial stages, China closed its borders, isolated people diagnosed with COVID-19, and implemented wide scale lockdowns when cases were found in the community.

As a result of the so-called zero-Covid strategy, the economy suffered and people became weary of the limitations and constant testing. Continued … 

Elephants: Covid and ethics reshape Thailand’s tourism industry

As he ambles in for his annual health check, Kwanmueang’s size takes your breath away.

Kwanmueang and his mahout Lek have returned to their home town as the tourism industry changes

Nearly three meters high at the shoulder, weighing at least four tons, and with spectacular tusks that curve together until they almost touch, the 18-year-old Thai bull elephant is an imposing sight.

Yet, he and his keeper, or mahout, Sornsiri “Lek” Sapmak, are in trouble. Continued …

Phuket tourism on road to recovery

Having endured the ravages of the Covid-19 pandemic for more than two years, Phuket’s tourism is bouncing back, welcoming more than 2.3 million visitors and raking in at least 127 billion baht in tourism revenue during the first ten months of 2022.

Business operators have high hopes that international tourist arrivals will continue to strengthen this year, while acknowledging it may take more than a year for the industry to fully recover.

For all its devastating impacts, the Covid-19 pandemic spurred the so-called “Phuket Sandbox”, a reopening model for international travelers, and made business operators, large and small, weather the crisis, learn about what it takes to adapt and rebuild their confidence. Continued …

Patong Beach cleared of 12 tons of trash in New Year cleanup

More than 12 tons of trash were cleared from Patong Beach Sunday as staff from Patong Municipality and volunteers cleaned up the debris left behind from the New Year countdown that saw thousands of people celebrate the New Year in Patong. Continued …

Life through the lens of a batik maker

Jantima Sukmetta, 52, gradually unfolds a batik fabric. It has distinguished colors of golden yellow and brown, the naturally dyed colors from turmeric and leaves of khonthi (beach vitex).

The khonthi plant is easily found along beaches in tambon Na Thap of Chana district in the southern province of Songkhla, where her Me-D Na Thap Batik Group is located.

“The cloth is specially designed because of the patterns initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya and integrated with the identity of our province,” she said. Continued … 

Fewer Covid-19 hospitalizations, deaths during Christmas week

As many as 2,111 Covid-19 patients were admitted to hospital and 75 succumbed in the last week of 2022, a drop from 2,900 admitted and 89 deaths the week before.

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) said on Monday that about 302 people per day had to be hospitalized for severe symptoms in the week of Dec. 25-31, compared to 414 daily average in the week of Dec. 18 to 24.

The average daily death rate from Covid in the week of Dec. 25-31 was 10, compared to 12 per day the previous week, the department added. Continued …

Experts urge end to Covid fear as Chinese gates swing open

Health experts are attempting to allay concern that new coronavirus strains in China may be imported into Thailand, saying they are less worrisome than the already dominant strain in Thailand.

They made the remarks with Chinese tourists expected to flock back to Thailand after Beijing reopens its borders on Sunday. Continued … 

Why China’s Covid wave is stirring fear

China is experiencing a huge Covid-19 surge after years of hardline containment restrictions were dismantled last month.

A growing number of countries are worried about a lack of data and transparency surrounding China’s outbreak.

Here is why it is sparking concern: Continued … 

Airport Worker Killed By Being ‘Ingested Into The Engine’ Of Plane

A ground crew worker at a regional Alabama (USA) airport was killed on Saturday by being sucked into the engine of a parked plane. The person, whose name has not been released, was “ingested into the engine” of an aircraft at Montgomery Regional Airport, the National Transportation Safety Board said. Continued … 

Europe Sees ‘Unprecedented’ Winter Heat Wave As 2023 Begins

A historic winter heat wave sent temperatures soaring in parts of Europe over New Year’s weekend. Thousands of temperature records were broken on the continent from Saturday to Monday, and on New Year’s Day alone, at least seven countries experienced the warmest January weather on record. Continued … 

Floods In Philippines Leave 51 Dead

Thousands of people in the Philippines remained in emergency shelters in the wake of devastating Christmas flooding, as the death toll climbed to 51 with 19 missing, authorities said Monday. Continued … 

Moscow Says Ukrainian Rocket Strike Kills 63 Russian Troops

Ukrainian forces fired rockets at a facility in the eastern Donetsk region where Russian soldiers were stationed, killing 63 of them, Russia’s defense ministry said Monday, in one of the deadliest attacks on the Kremlin’s forces since the war began more than 10 months ago. Continued … 

People Can Now Carry Guns Without A License In Half Of America’s States

Alabamians woke up Sunday with the right to carry a gun without a license. The change, implemented by a state law passed last year, marked a major milestone: half of America’s 50 states now allow people to carry handguns without first seeking a permit. Continued …

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, phuket, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Jan 2

  • New Year festivals are making Thailand fun again, minister says/Bangkok welcomes 2023 with fireworks over the Chao Phraya/Phetchabun hilltop temple heaves with devotees on New Year’s Eve/Chiang Mai welcomes 2023 with prayers, lanterns and pyrotechnics/Tourists flood Phi Phi on Jan 1/The mass return to Bangkok begins/Guide for Retiring in Thailand: Everything You Need to Know/Thailand in 2023: Tiptoeing through the minefield/ESG expected to be business trend for 2023/Thai industries moving toward a cleaner future/Navy scours Chumphon waters for last 5 HTMS Sukhothai crew/High momentum of EV growth seen for Thailand/
  • Tourism: Thailand ups 2023 forecast to 23M visitors/Thailand makes another travel list: Fodor’s ‘No List’/Green is Thai tourism’s new mandate/Cathay Pacific’s revives direct Phuket-Hong Kong flights/Mayhem and mischief: How tourists behaved badly in 2022/
  • Covid: Thai tourism workers urged to have Covid vaccine booster/PCR tests for travelers reintroduced around the world as Covid-19 cases surge/
  • International: Flying back into profit after pandemic/Vietnam pulls off Asia’s fastest growth/Canada bans most foreigners from buying homes/US stocks mark end to ‘terrible year’ of rate hikes and inflation/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

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

New Year festivals are making Thailand fun again, minister says

The New Year countdowns held across Thailand are inspiring confidence among tourists and reinvigorating the kingdom’s reputation as a destination for festivities, Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said.

He made the comments during the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023 @Hatyai” in Songkhla on Sunday.

Phiphat said the countdowns are stimulating domestic travel and drawing international tourists, especially from Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Continued … 

Bangkok welcomes 2023 with fireworks over the Chao Phraya

Bangkok skies were lit up with a spectacular fireworks display at midnight as Thailand marked the New Year at Iconsiam’s “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023”. The display, visible from most parts of the city, involved more than 30,000 fireworks being set alight along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. (The Nation)

Chiang Mai welcomes 2023 with prayers, lanterns and pyrotechnics

Thousands of Thais and foreigners flocked to Chiang Mai’s many attractions to ring in the New Year.

Among them was the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, where people gathered to take photographs of the last sunset of 2022.

Many also attended the “Chiang Mai Love is All Around” countdown at the northern capital’s Tha Phae Gate. The event, presided over by Chiang Mai Mayor Assanee Buranupakorn, saw people releasing lanterns for good luck and wowing over a dazzling fireworks display. – The Nation

Tourists flood Phi Phi on Jan 1, Thailand ups 2023 forecast to 23M visitors

Phi Phi Islands National Park in Krabi province was flooded by over 5,000 tourists per day on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, said a park official on Sunday.

Authorities deployed extra staff to oversee parking and increased the number of ticket booths to prevent crowding, as visitors poured in all day to witness the crystal-clear waters and white-sand islands of the 388-square-kilometer marine sanctuary, officially known as Hat Nappharat Thara-Mu Ko National Park.

Large crowds of tourists were seen at Railay Beach, Thale Waek (Separated Sea), Ko Poda and Pi Leh Bay. Continued … 

Phetchabun hilltop temple heaves with devotees on New Year’s Eve

Wat Pha Sorn Kaew in Phetchabun’s Khao Kho district attracted thousands of devotees, who wanted to pray for a successful 2023. The crowds began building from early morning on New Year’s Eve, with most of them being Myanmar migrant workers. Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, also known as Wat Phra That Pha Son Kaeo, is set on an 830-meter peak between Phitsanulok and Phetchabun provinces. The temple features a main pagoda and surrounding buildings adorned with over 5 million colorful mosaic tiles and pottery items and five bright-white sitting Buddha statues. (The Nation)

The mass return to Bangkok begins

Bangkok’s light traffic and quiet roads over the last couple of days will begin to return to the normal congestion today, as New Year revelers return in droves, making it slow going on several highways.

According to the state-run Transport Company, between 50,000 and 60,000 passengers are expected to arrive at its main bus terminals in Bangkok today, with many having started their journeys last night.

Traffic congestion on the Asian highway, from Ayutthaya to Bangkok, was reported to extend up to 10 kilometers this morning. All lanes were clogged with cars and buses, as they inched their way toward the Bang Pa-in elevated section, connecting with Phahonyothin Road and the motorway. – thaipbs.com

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

Guide for Retiring in Thailand: Everything You Need to Know

Many prefer retiring in Thailand. Its beautiful beaches, delicious food, affordable prices, and tropical climate simply makes it the closest thing to paradise. This is why expats and retirees from all over the world prefer enjoying the remaining years of their lives in the country.

If you’re considering retiring in Thailand, this article is perfect for you. We will enlist everything that you need to know – from benefits to retirement places, and even answers to frequently asked questions. We will also enlist guidelines on ho  you can also get a retirement visa.

  1. Affordable Lifestyle

Thailand is ideal for retirement because you get to live luxuriously without spending so much. In Thailand, your £16 (669 baht) will already be able to afford you a delicious three-course meal at a restaurant. Rent in a city will only cost around £308 (12,872 baht). For beer, you would only need £1.30 (54 baht). Continued …

Thailand in 2023: Tiptoeing through the minefield

2023 should be the first time in three years Thailand can fully return to normal practices after Covid-19 was downgraded to endemic in October 2022. Yet, businesses still need to stay alert to several obstacles on the horizon.

Higher rates

Borrowers face higher financial costs in 2023 under the Bank of Thailand’s policy normalization approach and the trend of rising interest rates in the market. Continued … 

ESG expected to be business trend for 2023

The past three years have proven to be challenging for many people following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Though the situation has improved, many businesses are still grappling with economic pressures, such as higher costs driven by inflation and higher energy prices, while concerns over climate change are motivating businesses and the public to become more environmentally aware.

Here are some key business trends that are expected to set the tone in 2023.

Banks incorporate ESG

Banks are continuing to incorporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into their business operations in a push for a sustainable transformation of the economy. Continued … 

Thai industries moving toward a cleaner future

Companies in the clean energy sector expect bright business prospects in 2023, as concerns over high energy costs and the impact of fossil fuels on the environment continue to grow.

Not only are solar, wind energy and bio-gas set to increase under the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) renewable energy scheme, but demand for natural gas, which is considered cleaner than oil and and coal, is also expected to rise.

At a forum on environmental, social and corporate governance, Somruedee Chaimongkol, chief executive of non-oil energy conglomerate Banpu Plc, said her company viewed gas as a “bridge” between fossil and renewable fuels. Continued … 

Navy scours Chumphon waters for last 5 HTMS Sukhothai crew

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) dispatched 28 Navy Seals and 53 divers on Saturday to hunt for the still missing five HTMS Sukhothai crew members.

The team will focus on seven islets and Makham Bay in the Gulf of Thailand off the coast of Chumphon province.

Vice Admiral Pichai Lorchusakul, commander of the First Naval Area Command, said it is believed the strong waves may have taken the bodies to these spots. Continued … 

High momentum of EV growth seen for Thailand

Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) market will continue to gain momentum in 2023, with sales expected to reach between 25,000 and 35,000 units, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

But whether the target will be attained depends on the availability of semiconductors, which have become scarce worldwide, affecting the automotive industry.

The FTI says EV sales in 2022 could reach 1,000 units. Continued … 

 

 

Thailand makes another travel list: Fodor’s ‘No List’

Thailand boasted recently of its ranking on many travel lists, from being among the least corrupt countries in Asia to ranking one of the best locations for expats, and rating one of the safest countries to visit.

The country has made the ranks by having some of the top-rated food and beaches in the world. But Thailand also received a nod this year that they might not be as quick to promote: Fodor’s “No List” for 2023.

The popular travel company puts out a list each year of countries, cities, and locations that people should reconsider traveling to for various reasons. The company considers tourism’s damage to a place’s culture and the environment, or a country’s record on human rights or corruption. Continued …

Green is Thai tourism’s new mandate

Tourism analysts say sustainability and responsible tourism represent a new mandate for the Thai industry after the pandemic.

Responsible tourism and sustainability in tourism will be the main direction in the future, Thanet Phetsuwan, deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said at the “Bangkok Post Year-End Forum”.

Thanet said the TAT is trying to shift to quality-based tourism from a quantity-focused strategy, which saw Thailand welcome 40 million arrivals in 2019. Continued …

Cathay Pacific’s revives direct Phuket-Hong Kong flights

The return of flights to Phuket keep racking up. But this one is particularly welcome. Hong-Kong based carrier Cathay Pacific, one of the worst affected airlines in the world over the past three years, has re-launched direct flights to Phuket.

The re-launched flight schedule arrived yesterday, with 118 passengers on board. The airline tried to relaunch flights last year in November but had to postpone the re-introduction because of the latest surge of Covid at the time.

Hong Kong, along with China, recently eased Covid-19 travel restrictions and the introduction of the direct services back to Phuket is a reflection of this. Staff at Phuket Airport were on hand to welcome passengers arriving on CX771, presenting them with gifts and souvenirs to mark the occasion. Continued … 

Mayhem and mischief: How tourists behaved badly in 2022

In 2022, the world started traveling again — and with that came the return of all the usual misbehavior and antics abroad. But with nerves perhaps frayed by a record year for airline cancellations, delays, lost luggage and inflated prices, misconduct was a particularly strong theme. Here are the standout moments from a year of travelers behaving badly.

‘Did you pack your bag yourself?’

Sharp items and weaponry are, as everyone knows, huge no-nos when it comes to carry-on bags at the airport.

Everyone that is except for the man in Boston with a sword concealed inside a cane, the passenger at New York’s LaGuardia who was packing nunchucks, three saw blades, a switchblade and a folding knife, and the traveler in Alaska who rocked up to the security checkpoint with a bag filled with 28 knives. Continued … 

Thai tourism workers urged to have Covid vaccine booster

With China experiencing a surge in Covid infections and simultaneously about to re-open its borders, tourism staff in Thailand are being urged to have a booster vaccine dose. According to a report, the Tourism Authority of Thailand is calling on all tourism workers to ensure they’re protected ahead of the expected return of Chinese tourists.

Yuthasak Supasorn, the TAT governor, says staff who are likely to have close contact with tourists, such as hotel receptionists, drivers, and tour guides, should make sure they’re protected against infection. China’s borders re-open next Sunday and Thailand expects to see a rise in the number of Chinese arrivals.

A government spokesman says PM Prayut Chan-o-cha has also instructed the Public Health Ministry to ensure measures are in place to keep the public safe from infection. Thailand is preparing to welcome around 300,000 visitors from China during the first quarter of 2023, according to spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri. Continued …

PCR tests for travelers reintroduced around the world as Covid-19 cases surge

Just as mandatory PCR testing for travelers had become a thing of the past in many parts of the world, regulations are being reintroduced as Covid-19 cases surge once more.

Much of this is driven by the surge in cases from China, after Beijing dismantled its zero-Covid policies, including regular PCR testing of its population, triggering concern around the world.

The U.S., Australia and UK, for example, are to impose PCR testing requirements on any travelers from China from Thursday. The U.S. and Australia’s guidelines also cover Hong Kong and Macau. Continued … 

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

 

Flying back into profit after pandemic

The outlook for the aviation industry worldwide is chiefly positive this year,s although the path ahead is not without risks, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Continued … 

Vietnam pulls off Asia’s fastest growth

Vietnam’s economy grew at the fastest pace in Asia this year, signaling momentum just before risks from a global slowdown began to materialize. Continued … 

Canada bans most foreigners from buying homes

A ban on foreigners buying residential property in Canada took effect on Sunday, aiming to make more homes available to locals facing a housing crunch. Continued … 

US stocks mark end to ‘terrible year’ of rate hikes and inflation

Wall Street stocks saw their worst year since 2008 on Friday, after a “terrible” period shaken by inflation and aggressive moves to rein in costs. Continued …

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, phuket, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-Dec 30

  • Hua Hin Dustman Gravel races March 4-5/Hua Hin Bikini Run March 25/Best Western opens first resort in Hua Hin/What’s hot and what’s not in the year to come/Bank of Thailand updates Thai economic recovery momentum/Business associations succeed in lowering rise in power price/Massive investment planned for new Smart City in Eastern Economic Corridor/Mass New Year exodus from Bangkok to Isaan begins/Two male foreign bodies found floating near Racha Island, Phuket/More than 30 Thais feared dead in Poipet casino inferno/Forgetful husband accidently abandons wife on a road trip after taking a quick leak/Deadly clashes continue between Myanmar troops and Karen rebels near Thai border/
  • Tourism: The outlook for Tourism in Thailand in 2023/2022 marks revival of Thailand’s tourism after two years in the wilderness/No Special Measures for Chinese Visitors/Phuket eyes Bt100-billion New Year windfall/
  • Thailand Experience: Thai Basil To Lemongrass, Ingredients That Complete Thai Food/The best new restaurants in Bangkok/15 Best Places to Visit in Thailand/
  • Covid: What new Covid restrictions are Chinese travelers facing?/
  • International: Russia pummels Ukraine’s power and water sectors/Brazilian Soccer Legend Pelé Dead At 82/US winter storm death toll rises to 61/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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Best Western opens first resort in Hua Hin

Best Western Hotels and Resorts has continued to expand its portfolio with the launch of its inaugural property in Hua Hin: Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Hua Hin.

Set around a series of lagoon pools in Khao Tao, just 10 minutes south of Hua Hin and approximately 2.5 hours drive from Bangkok, the resort features a free-flowing organic design, a wide range of accommodations and facilities for leisure and business. Continued …

What’s hot and what’s not in the year to come

Trends change by the year, with some things in and others out, and 2023 will be no exception. Remember when the SMS was “in” some years ago? Here’s what we predict will be making a splash or quietly bowing out in the next 12 months.

In – cashless, out – coins and banknotes

Credit where it is due. The government’s “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment scheme has made cashless payment widespread, accelerating it with sellers, including street vendors who are learning to accept payment via the scheme. Another reason, on the buyer’s side, is the pandemic, which made people afraid of contracting Covid through contaminated coins and banknotes.

A couple of years back, we’d never imagined leaving home without a wallet. Now those pockets can stay empty as long as you have a smartphone with you. Even better, a purchase – no matter how small the amount is – can be done via a number of cashless methods. Credit cards can’t do that 40 or 50 baht payment. Continued …

Bank of Thailand updates Thai economic recovery momentum

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) says the Thai economy is still in a recovery mode, and that the momentum was driven by the continuous recovery of the service sector following the increase in the number of foreign tourists and the improvement in private consumption indicators.

Chayawadee Chai-Anant, assistant governor at BoT, said the the Thai economy was still in a recovery direction. The momentum was driven by the continuously recovering service sector following the increasing number of foreign tourists.

She said that seasonally adjusted number of foreign tourists increased from the previous month from many nationalities, especially Europe and the United States. Continued …

Business associations succeed in lowering rise in power price

The cost of electricity for businesses will not rise as much in January as proposed earlier this month, following an intensive and coordinated effort by Thailand’s largest business associations to prevent what they described as a crippling rise in the fuel tariff (Ft) rate.

The Energy Regulatory Commission has approved a decision by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to reduce a rise in the Ft rate during the first quarter of next year, commission Secretary-general Komkrit Tantravanich said on Thursday.

The Ft rate is determined by the cost of fuel used for generating electricity and the cost of buying power from private generating plants. Continued …

Massive investment planned for new Smart City in Eastern Economic Corridor

The government will invest 1.35 trillion baht to transform the eastern seaboard’s Eastern Economic Corridor (ECC) into a regional financial hub and a world-class smart city by 2037, deputy government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said on Thursday.

(What is a Smart City? A smart city is typically a kind of municipal Internet of Things – a network of cameras and sensors that can see, hear and even smell. These sensors, especially video cameras, generate massive amounts of data that can serve many civic purposes like helping traffic flow smoothly.)

In the first 10 years, the focus will be developing the business and financial area, regional business offices, government offices, medical facilities, and educational centers, she said.

This will be followed by creating a world-class smart city by 2037 to serve as a model for the development of smart cities across the country, Rachada added. Continued …

Mass New Year exodus from Bangkok to Isaan begins

The mass exodus for New Year from the Thai capital Bangkok to the northeastern Isaan region has begun in earnest. To accommodate the traffic, special lanes were introduced to ease the flow in the area of Wang Noi at KM 106.

Police in the city of Saraburi also opened a special lane under the turn-off bridge and from KM marker 17 to 43, Thap Kwang to Klang Dong.

Gas stations were opening past regular hours, as large numbers of people used their facilities for fuel and rest stops. Continued …

Two male foreign bodies found floating near Racha Island, Phuket

Two bodies of male foreigners were found floating in the sea near the Racha Island, south of Phuket.

The Royal Thai Navy said that at 12:35pm yesterday they were notified from a tour boat captain that two bodies were found floating near the Rang Gai Beach, east of the Racha Noi Island off the Chalong area.

At 4:50pm, the Royal Thai Navy and rescue divers arrived at the scene to find two bodies tied with ropes connected together with a floating life jacket and a buoy. Continued … 

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

More than 30 Thais feared dead in Poipet casino inferno

Thai rescuers estimated that more than 30 Thai nationals perished in the massive blaze that engulfed the 355-room Grand Diamond City Hotel and Casino in the Cambodian border town of Poipet late Wednesday night, while a Cambodian official warned that the death toll could rise to the hundreds.

Banteay Meanchey provincial spokesman Sek Sokhom said late Thursday afternoon that the death toll could rise to the hundreds. He said the casino complex had 400 staff and an unknown number of guests. Anyone trapped in a room during the fire can be presumed dead, he said.

Rescue officials from Thai foundations who crossed the border from Sa Kaew’s Aranyaprathet district to the impoverished casino town on the Cambodian side of the border, said they retrieved bodies believed to be Thai. Continued …

Forgetful husband accidently abandons wife on a road trip after taking a quick leak

For richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, till death us do part, and in an emergency toilet break situation, every marriage is tested to some degree. And, an absent-minded husband truly tested the strength of his marriage on a road trip last week.

He pulled over by the roadside to quickly take a leak before climbing back into the car and driving off – leaving his wife behind who had wandered into a nearby jungle for a pee.

Boontom Chaimoon and his wife, Amnuay Chaimoon, took a road trip on Sunday to spend the seasonal holidays in her hometown in the Maha Sarakham Province. Continued …

Deadly clashes continue between Myanmar troops and Karen rebels near Thai border

More than 1,000 resistance forces were involved in a fierce battle against Myanmar junta troops at a Karen town near the border with Thailand.

Reports said many people were killed and injured in the armed clashes that have continued for over two weeks in a battle for the control of Kawkareik, a town in Myanmar’s Karen State.

The exact number of casualties could not be independently confirmed. Continued …

The outlook for Tourism in Thailand in 2023

Thailand is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and delicious food. In 2023, the Thailand Tourism Authority (TAT) has announced a new plan to attract even more visitors to the country.

One of the main focuses of the 2023 tourism plan is sustainability. TAT has pledged to reduce the environmental impact of tourism and promote eco-friendly practices throughout the industry. This includes efforts to reduce plastic waste, protect natural habitats, and encourage sustainable transportation.

In addition to sustainability, TAT is also focusing on promoting diversity and inclusivity in its tourism efforts. This includes efforts to showcase the country’s diverse cultural heritage and promote equal access for all visitors, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. Continued …

2022 marks revival of Thailand’s tourism after two years in the wilderness

After bolting the doors for two years following the outbreak of the pandemic, Thailand decided to fully reopen the country in 2022, removing the COVID-19 restrictions that had throttled tourism, a key engine of economic growth.

Before fully reopening, Thailand had begun a carefully planned, phased and controlled return of international tourists beginning July 1, 2021. The Phuket Sandbox, Samui Plus, and 7+7 Extension programs were implemented with caution to ensure COVID cases would not soar. This was followed by a four-phase reopening time line from October 2021 to January 2022 in which destinations throughout the country were reopened to tourists.

On July 1 this year, the government removed the Thailand Pass registration requirement, allowing foreign nationals to arrive if they could show proof of vaccination or a negative antigen test taken not later than 72 hours before the flight. Continued …

No Special Measures for Chinese Visitors

The country will not need any strict disease control measure for Chinese visitors, the public health minister said.

Anutin Charnvirakul, public health minister and deputy prime minister, said officials from the Department of Disease Control, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Ministry of Transport discussed measures to be imposed in response to China’s planned country reopening on Jan. 8, and they agreed that existing measures would be enough.

The Chinese government required outbound Chinese travelers to undergo RT-PCR tests for COVID-19 and receive at least three doses of COVID-19 vaccine. Most Chinese people had natural antibodies for COVID-19 also because 60% of the Chinese population already contracted the disease, Anutin said. Continued … 

Phuket eyes Bt100-billion New Year windfall

Phuket expects to earn more than 100 billion baht in revenue from tourism during the New Year period.

Bhumikitti Ruktaengam, advisory chairman of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said on Thursday the situation is rebounding quickly in the resort island during the New Year period, as hotel room reservation rates on Kata, Karon, Patong, and Nai Harn beaches are averaging 70%. Continued …

Thai Basil To Lemongrass, Ingredients That Complete Thai Food

Thai food is incredibly effective at drawing foodies under its spell of flavor. You’ll be compelled to indulge in their decadent sweets, flavorful appetizers, fragrant sauces, and rich and creamy curries again and time again.

It takes talent to master, but the secret to making any Thai cuisine is to balance the five essential flavors of sour, bitter, salty, sweet, and spicy. As a result, no Thai food is ever monotonous and always gives your taste the much-needed punch.

Almost all Thai dishes start with a paste. Although you can buy pre-made Thai pastes (such red, yellow, and green curry), they won’t have the same flavor and scent, much alone the nutrition, of a paste produced from scratch. Continued … 

The best new restaurants in Bangkok

What a year to eat out. Slowly yet stylishly reclaiming the steps we had fallen during the dark period of 2020-2021, the year 2022 saw Bangkok’s food and beverage scene gently rock up on its feet again. Here are all the new restaurants we loved this year.

New bar and restaurant openings were aplenty, new menus were flung left and right, and some of the world’s most renowned chefs visited our city, beautifully continuing to mark it as one of the greatest culinary hubs in the region.

We hosted the Asia’s 50 Best Bar Awards in Bangkok for the first time at the beginning of the year, as well as the Top 50 Pizza Asia Pacific ceremony. On the former, we saw five entries, and on the latter we were proud of five entries. Continued …

15 Best Places to Visit in Thailand

A list of must-dos holiday destinations for countless individuals, Thailand genuinely has everything: the turbulent appeal of Bangkok, the legendary tropical wildernesses, probably the best road food on the planet, and palm-lined sea shores that appear to continue for eternity.

Whatever your justification behind getting away to the place that is known for grins, Thailand will not frustrate. Assuming that you’re exploring locations and what should be done on your next tropical getaway, look at our rundown of the most ideal getaway spots in Thailand.

11. Hua Hin

While simply a calm town most popular for being the lord’s mid-year retreat, Hua Hin has turned into a well-known ocean-side hotel destination. Try not to expect wonderful turquoise waters or vivacious ocean-side life here; however, this is to a greater extent an objective for those meeting with family, or singles who need to sunbathe in harmony, away from the groups. Continued …

What new Covid restrictions are Chinese travelers facing?

Countries are imposing or considering imposing curbs on travelers from China amid a Covid-19 surge there after authorities relaxed “zero-Covid” rules.

They cite a lack of information from China on variants and are concerned about a wave of infections. China has rejected criticism of its Covid data and said it expects future mutations to be potentially more transmissible but less severe.

Below is a list of new regulations for travelers from China. Continued …

Russia pummels Ukraine’s power and water sectors

Doubling down on its efforts to use winter as a weapon, Russia launched its fiercest attack in weeks Thursday, battering Ukrainian power and water infrastructure amid freezing temperatures. Continued … 

Brazilian Soccer Legend Pelé Dead At 82

Pelé, the Brazilian king of soccer who won a record three World Cups and became one of the most commanding sports figures of the last century, died Thursday. He was 82. Continued … 

US winter storm death toll rises to 61

The death toll from a fierce winter storm that gripped much of the United States over Christmas rose to at least 61 on Thursday, officials said. Continued …

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Dec 28

  • Interior Ministry issues urgent order for New Year celebrations/Price hikes to affect over 7,000 food, drink products/Thailand readies for turbulent economic ride/Environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022/Thai navy intensifies hunt for 8 missing HTMS Sukhothai crew/DDC allays brain-eating amoeba fears/The 5 S’s of Wine Tasting/Thailand’s Plastic Waste Conundrum/Manufacturing falls in November amid global economic slowdown/Thai exports exceed 2022 target despite end-of-year slump/Export sector outlook looks bleak as global economy heads into tailspin /Seven key trends expected to influence financial services in 2023/National Parks chief charged with massive corruption/Meet the food waste fighters/Indian man arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstay/Pakistani Man Arrested in Patong for 3,270 Days of Overstay/
  • Tourism: Thai tourism industry waits expectantly as China scraps travel restrictions/Chinese tourism influx raises fears/No immediate surge of Chinese tourists expected after re-opening/Bangkok airport girds for New Year travelers/Phuket’s Russian Revolution/New Zealand Tourist Dies In Fall From Kanchanaburi Train/
  • Thailand Experience: Chiang Mai is the trendy new travel spot: 7 things you must do when you go/Eastern Thailand: Why Travel to this Underrated Region/
  • Covid: Current vaccines ‘will do’ for coming year: ministry/
  • International: Massive flight cancellations leave thousands of suitcases stranded at US airports/Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that impose price cap/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Interior Ministry issues urgent order for New Year celebrations

The Interior Ministry has issued five rules for New Year celebrations in an urgent order sent to all provincial governors.

Issued on Monday, the ministry order explains that government agencies and the private sector can still organize celebrations, but organizers must strictly stick to the following five rules:

  1. Entertainment venues must close at specified hours and keep underage people, weapons, drugs and other illegal items out of their premises. Continued … 

Price hikes to affect over 7,000 food, drink products

The price of many food and beverage products will rise early next year by an average of 18% between January and Apri, according to a survey of 105 major companies compiled by credit research firm Teikoku Databank, as of today.

Price hikes will affect 7,152 items, more than 1.5 times the number from the same period this year, with some products such as frozen and wheat-based foods seeing a further increase.

Original figures compiled as of the end of November showed that 4,425 items would be affected by price hikes. However, the last 20 days have seen the number of products rise by 1.6 times. Manufacturers are believed to have pushed forward with further price increases in the face of higher costs in areas such as materials, transportation and labor. Continued …

Thailand readies for turbulent economic ride

As global interest rates continued to rise in 2022 to tame persistently high inflation, the Bank of Thailand and its governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput are being scrutinized as the business sector watches the direction of Thai interest rates.

Aggressive monetary policy this year to curb inflation was led by the U.S. Federal Reserve. The Fed began to increase its policy benchmark rate from March and deployed a hawkish monetary policy throughout the year.

Despite the tight monetary policy of the Fed, the Bank of Thailand has maintained its normalization of policy rates on a gradual basis, in accordance with the slow recovery of the Thai economy compared with other countries. Continued …

Environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022

From floods and extreme weather, to climate change and the adoption of the bio-circular-green economy, the environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022.

For Thais, especially those who reside in low-lying areas and flood plains, 2022 was another year of floods and extreme weather.

Throughout the year, Thailand experienced a series of unseasonal weather events and unusually intense rainfall, which led to major floods in many parts of the country. Continued … 

Thai navy intensifies hunt for 8 missing HTMS Sukhothai crew

The Royal Thai Navy announced that eight sailors of the doomed HTMS Sukhothai are still missing after two bodies were retrieved on Tuesday morning.

The navy said that 76 of the 105 crew members of the warship were rescued, 21 were confirmed dead and eight still missing.

Vice Admiral Pichai Lorchusakul, commander of the First Naval Area, said the navy’s drone had spotted a body near Koh Sak close to the coast of Chumphon’s Muang district at 8.36am. Continued …

DDC allays brain-eating amoeba fears

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) said a brain disease caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly referred to as “brain-eating amoeba”, is not contagious between people.

The announcement came after The Korea Herald reported on Monday that a Korean national in his 50s died last Wednesday of the brain disease after returning from a four-month stay in Thailand.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), his genetic tests for three types of pathogens causing Naegleria fowleri were 99.6% similar to those found in a meningitis patient reported abroad. Continued …

The 5 S’s of Wine Tasting

Thailand’s rapidly emerging wine culture is now centering on Hua Hin, with a growing number of sophisticated wine bars offering a huge range of wines from important wine growing regions across the world, but importantly an internationally awarded vineyard at the city’s doorsteps.

The Monsoon Valley Vineyard now also features a wine sampling cellar and on the 2022 Harvest Festival (Feb. 18-23), offers the ideal opportunity to discover what’s so special about Thailand’s best wines.

You may believe that a wine-tasting procedure is unnecessarily tedious; after all, why not just drink and enjoy it? In truth, there’s something mystical about wine tasting when you learn to use all of your senses, so let’s explore the 5 S’s in wine tasting. Continued …

Thailand’s Plastic Waste Conundrum

Despite the Thai government’s ban on four more types of single-use plastics in 2022, up to 250,000 tons of imported plastic waste from other nations continues to flow into the country annually through the international plastic waste trade.

Thailand is trying to stay the course with further efforts to mitigate plastic pollution, but there are still challenges in waste sorting and collection on the ground.

Video 

In 2019, the Thai Cabinet also approved the “Road Map on Plastic Waste Management” for the period 2020 to 2030 as the policy framework for related agencies to work on in pursuit of the targets. This includes a ban on seven types of single-use plastics and to completely recycle domestic plastic waste within the designated time frames in the road map. Continued …

Manufacturing falls in November amid global economic slowdown

Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) fell in November by 5.6% year-on-year to 95.11 points, the lowest in 15 months, as oil refineries were shut down for maintenance while a global economic slowdown began to affect exporters, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

Officials expect the MPI for the whole year to grow by 1%, down from an earlier prediction of 1.9%.

“A global economic slowdown could lead to a recession, which will affect the Thai export sector,” said Warawan Chitaroon, acting director-general of the OIE. Continued …

Thai exports exceed 2022 target despite end-of-year slump

Exports rose 7.6% in the first 11 months of 2022 to US$265.34 billion, or 9.16 trillion baht, exceeding the target of 9 trillion baht for the whole year, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said on Tuesday.

Cross-border trade in the same period was worth 944 billion baht, down 0.51% from the previous year.

However, exports in November were down 6% on last year to $22.3 billion, while imports rose 5.6% to $23.65 billion. December’s export figures are also expected to drop from last year amid the ongoing global economic slowdown. Continued …

Export sector outlook looks bleak as global economy heads into tailspin

Thailand’s exports contracted by 6% in November due to a decline in external demand, but rising economic activities from tourism recovery allowed manufacturing outputs to expand 1.41% last month, government agencies said.

Export value contracted by 6% to US$ 22.31 billion in November due to the slowdown of the global economy, the Ministry of Commerce said.

This was the second consecutive month of decline in exports after a 4.4% dip seen during October. Continued …

Seven key trends expected to influence financial services in 2023

Cloud, real-time payments, and embedded finance are among seven key financial trends predicted for 2023, Mambu, a cloud banking platform, has revealed.

The prediction by the world’s leading financial services firms is included in Mambu’s annual “Partner Predictions” report, which highlights the top financial trends expected to influence the industry in 2023, as businesses try to survive and thrive in a volatile macroeconomic environment.

The report features insightful commentary from industry leaders from the fintech and financial services sectors, including executives from AWS, Backbase, Deloitte, Google Cloud, and others. Continued … 

National Parks chief charged with massive corruption

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry has launched an internal investigation of National Parks chief Rutchada Suriyakul na Ayutthaya after he was arrested and charged with malfeasance and bribery on Tuesday.

Anti-Corruption Division (ACD) police detained Rutchada during a bribery sting operation at his Chatuchak office in Bangkok on Tuesday morning.

After the shock arrest, ministry Permanent Secretary Jatuporn Buruspat issued an order to form a panel for a seven-day investigation. Continued …

Meet the food waste fighters

Thailand ranked 9th on the 2021 Global Climate Risk Index of countries most affected by “extreme weather events” between 2010 and 2019.

One of the factors contributing to climate change is food waste. When organic material decomposes in landfills, it emits the greenhouse gas methane, which is far more potent than CO2. Hence, the quickest way to save the planet is to reduce the amount of food waste.

“Food waste actually starts from the harvesting of the raw material up to consumption, to the food on the plate. All the way up from the harvest to consumption we consider the waste so, all in all, globally we have about 30% of the food produced and processed being wasted. This is remarkable and is a lot. Continued …

Indian man arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstay

A 44-year-old Indian man was arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstaying his legal visa conditions. The Phuket Immigration Office said they have arrested Anil Dutt, an Indian national, on Phra Baramee Road in Patong. Continued …

Pakistani Man Arrested in Patong for 3,270 Days of Overstay

A 35-year-old Pakistani man was arrested in Patong for 3,270 days of overstaying his legal visa conditions the Phuket Immigration Office reported Monday. They arrested Anjum Raza, a Pakistani national, on Phra Baramee Road in Patong. Continued … 

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

Thai tourism industry waits expectantly as China scraps travel restrictions

Thailand’s tourism industry can expect a boost from China’s move to scrap measures on overseas travel of its citizens from Jan. 8, the Tourism Council of Chiang Mai said on Tuesday.

China’s National Health Commission announced the move on Monday after nearly three years of strict pandemic border restrictions effectively prevented tourists from leaving the country.

Visitors from China were Thailand’s largest tourism market before the pandemic struck in 2020. Continued …

Chinese tourism influx raises fears

An overload of tourists and an overwhelmed Thai healthcare system are issues to monitor next year after China fully reopens, with up to 500,000 tourists projected to start traveling during Chinese New Year.

Even though the tourism sector applauded the announcement from Beijing that it is lifting most entry requirements from Jan. 8, except for a pre-arrival Covid-19 test, tourism operators were concerned about an imbalance between supply and demand.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said China’s reopening would lead TAT to revise its target for foreign arrivals from 20 million to more than 25 million in 2023. Continued …

No immediate surge of Chinese tourists expected after re-opening

China’s relaxation of Covid-19 rules for international arrivals has raised hopes that its multi-billion dollar travel business will soon flourish again but countries longing for the return of Chinese tourists will likely face more of a wait.

China’s National Health Commission announced on Monday that inbound travelers would no longer have to go into quarantine from Jan. 8. There are no official restrictions on Chinese people going abroad but the new rule will make it much easier for them to return home.

China was the world’s largest outbound tourism market before Covid shut down global travel, with its overseas visitors spending US$27.5 billion on travel in 2019. Continued … 

Bangkok airport girds for New Year travelers

The number of outbound and inbound travelers passing through Suvarnabhumi airport is expected to surge to an average of 145,000 per day during the New Year period.

Kittipong Kittikachorn, director of Suvarnabhumi airport, on Tuesday said the daily number would bring the total number of travelers coming through the airport to 1.01 million during Dec. 29–Jan. 4. Continued …

Phuket’s Russian Revolution

Phuket is busy again, for the first time since April 2020 when the government closed off the airports and passenger arrivals into Thailand, because of the Covid pandemic.

While the surge of tourists, principally from a couple of countries, is a very welcome return to business for many hotels, tour companies, restaurants and tourist-related businesses, the current arrival numbers could provide some stark warnings for the island’s sustainability as a tourism destination.

Without getting into the specific geo-politics, we should at least be completely transparent about how the current rush to repopulate Phuket with tourism customers may have some unforeseen consequences. Continued …

New Zealand Tourist Dies In Fall From Kanchanaburi Train

A tourist from New Zealand slipped and fell from the train that had slowed down for passengers to take photos at Kanchanaburi’s Krasae Cave, which was the camp of POWs in World War II.

At 12.10 p.m. Police Lt. Col. Kiattisak Kerdchok, an investigator at Sai Yok police station, was notified of a foreigner having died after falling off a train at Krasae Cave in Lum Sum subdistrict and quickly went there together with Pitakarn Kanchanaburi Foundation rescuers.

At the scene they found Patrick Ward, 45, lying on the ground after plunging seven to eight meters from the train. His body was taken to Sai Yok Hospital for an autopsy, with the New Zealand embassy also contacted. Continued …

Chiang Mai is the trendy new travel spot: 7 things you must do when you go

With its stunning array of temples, delicious food scene, hopping nightlife, gorgeous natural opportunities, and all-around laid-back atmosphere, there’s a lot to love about Chiang Mai. Beyond its abundance of awesome experiences, this moderate-size city also offers a high standard of living at a relatively low cost, along with a well-developed visitor infrastructure.

It’s no wonder that it’s become so popular with travelers over the past two years, particularly among the remote-working “digital nomad” crowd.

The best time to go is between October and April when temperatures cool off a bit (though it never really gets cold), but keep in mind that February tends to bring a few months of smoky air — sometimes uncomfortably so — as the country burns its dead crops. Continued …

Eastern Thailand: Why Travel to this Underrated Region

Eastern Thailand is a stunning region in The Land of Smiles that is often less explored than the rest of the country. It’s a shame, though, because this is one of the best regions of Thailand!

This area has everything from gorgeous, white sand beaches to lush, forested national parks!

If you are looking for ways to enhance your Thailand itinerary, check out our suggestions for having the best time in the region. Continued …

Current vaccines ‘will do’ for coming year: ministry

The second generation of Covid-19 vaccines is unlikely to be included in the Department of Medical Services’ procurement pipeline next year while current vaccines remain effective in reducing severe symptoms, says its deputy director-general.

Dr. Weerawut Iamsamran said on Tuesday that no evidence has emerged to back claims that bivalent vaccines offer better results than the monovalent platforms widely being used to prevent advanced infection and severe symptoms.

“Therefore, the current Covid-19 vaccines can still achieve the goal, especially in reducing severe symptoms of Covid-19,” he said. Continued … 

Massive flight cancellations leave thousands of suitcases stranded at US airports

After a weekend of canceled flights and travel delays, storm-weary travelers in the U.S. found themselves facing yet another challenge – tracking down their lost luggage. In airports around the country, thousands of bags have piled up, waiting for their rightful owners to claim them. Continued … 

Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that impose price cap

President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday delivered Russia’s long-awaited response to a Western price cap, signing a decree that bans the supply of crude oil and oil products from Feb. 1 for five months to nations that impose the cap. Continued …

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, hospitality, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-Dec 24

  • Centara Grand Beach Resort Hua Hin celebrates 100th anniversary/Elephant Santas deliver presents at Thai school/Kindergarten students save up to buy blankets for the needy in northern Thailand/Foreigner in Thailand Cooks Christmas Feast for Street Dogs – video/January fuel tariff hike will raise product prices by 5%-12%, warns group/Why everyone is confused by khao soi being named the best soup in the world/Rescuers scouring Chumphon islands for missing HTMS Sukhothai sailors/Body found near spot where HTMS Sukhothai sank/Sunken Warship’s Life Jacket Found Near Koh Tao/Chula academics warn of challenges in shift to EVs/Thailand Legal Cannabis Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis/Weed’s next frontier is in Asia/
  • Tourism: Thailand welcomes nearly 11 million tourists this year/New Year celebrations not canceled yet, officials say/Khao San Road cancels Dec 31 ‘Countdown’ event/Bangkok 2023 countdown at Iconsiam still on/Foreigners donate blood after massive shortage due to foreigner mishaps/Outbound travelers surge to 3-year high/Could Thailand’s Southeast Coastal Gem Khanom Be the Next Koh Samui?/
  • Links: Airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Centara Grand Beach Resort Hua Hin celebrates 100th anniversary

Centara Hotels & Resorts is getting ready to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of its historic Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, home of the original Raliway Hotel Hua Hin, with a month of spectacular events, exhibitions and entertainment lined up at the seaside retreat.

Festivities begin on Dec. 31 with the “Centenary Celebration: 100 Years of Memories”. The evening will feature retro tunes from the 1950’s–1980’s, entertainment, and midnight fireworks.

Events continue into January, highlights of which include the Silpakorn University String Orchestra, the return of the resort’s French buffet with a live performance by French tenor Yves Baron, and an art exhibition featuring the Railway Hotel throughout its history. – traveldailynews.asia

Elephant Santas deliver presents at Thai school

A group of mahouts, each dressed as Santa Claus, led a herd of elephants into a school in central Thailand on Friday to distribute Christmas gifts to students. Video https://www.nationthailand.com/world/40023384

Kindergarten students save up to buy blankets for the needy in northern Thailand

Kindergarten students in Chiang Rai province in northernmost Thailand saved up one baht every day for a year to buy blankets for people suffering in the cold weather this winter, especially those living at high altitudes in the province’s mountainous regions.

Teachers at Chiang Rai Kindergarten invited students to join a charitable project entitled “Doing 89 Million Good Deeds for the King” to develop their social skills and teach them the importance of sharing.

Each child, aged five to six years old, was encouraged to save up one baht per day for one year to buy blankets. The children were told the blankets would be donated to underprivileged people suffering from cold weather this winter. Continued … 

Foreigner in Thailand Cooks Christmas Feast for Street Dogs – video

Over the next few days, people across the world will be tucking into their favorite food for Christmas – and why should our furry friends miss out on the fun?

A man in Thailand has gone viral online for celebrating Christmas with street dogs. Niall Harbison works to help stray dogs in the country, and posted videos online of him treating 100 to a real festive feast.

“Street dogs around the world have a hard life,” he began in the caption. “But this group of 100 here in Thailand today were made (to) feel very special. I was up at 4.30am to cook them the finest meal of their lives and people have been sending me toys from all over the world so I saved them up for today. Most of these dogs have never seen a toy in their lives. Continued … 

January fuel tariff hike will raise product prices by 5%-12%, warns group

The fuel tariff (FT) increase in January will force manufacturers to raise product prices by 5%-12%, industry chiefs warned on Thursday.

The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) voiced concern after the government announced subsidies to soften the FT hike’s impact on household utility bills but prepared no such measures for business.

The January-April increase in FT will drive up the cost of electricity to 5.69 baht per unit, the JSCCIB said. Continued …

Why everyone is confused by khao soi being named the best soup in the world

TasteAtlas has named khao soi as the number one soup in the world, and the internet has so many questions. Us included. This is why many are confused by khao soi getting the #1 spot.

According to Cambridge Dictionary, a soup (n.) is a usually hot, liquid food made from vegetables, meat, or fish. What about Oxford? They describe it as “a liquid food made by boiling meat, vegetables, etc. in water, often eaten as the first course of a meal.”

That’s very understandable. When we think of soup, we think of liquid food. Most of the time it’s hot, but there are also cold soups, such as gazpacho and chilled soups. It can be sweet, sour, savory, salty, and made with vegetables, various kinds of meat, or sometimes even fruits. There are so many kinds of soups with different variations in every corner in the world, served in your homes or cafes, to fine dining. But one thing’s in common: they’re basically liquid food. Continued …

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

Rescuers scouring Chumphon islands for missing HTMS Sukhothai sailors

The search for 23 HTMS Sukhothai sailors missing in the Gulf of Thailand resumed on Friday, as the Royal Thai Navy issued an update on their mission to probe the ship on the seabed.

The search mission for the sailors launched for a fifth day on Friday in the seas off Chumphon and Surat Thani provinces. The Navy also released the names of the missing personnel.

Rescuers are now checking islands and outcrops off Chumphon for any signs of the 23 sailors, who went missing when the Sukhothai sank in heavy seas about 20 nautical miles off Prachuap Khiri Khan on Sunday night. The vessel was knocked over and suffered an engine malfunction as it took on water. Continued … 

Body found near spot where HTMS Sukhothai sank

Another body has been found floating near the spot where HTMS Sukhothai sank off Prachuap Khiri Khan, but the navy has yet to confirm whether it is one of its 23 missing sailors.

A search team on the HTMS Bang Rachan found the body around 4:15pm on Friday off the coast of Bang Saphan district, Royal Thai Navy spokesman Adm Pokkrong Monthatpalin said. Continued … 

Sunken Warship’s Life Jacket Found Near Koh Tao

A life jacket from HTMS 442 Sukhothai that sank off Prachuab Khiri Khan on Sunday night was found floating near Koh Tao, almost a hundred nautical miles away, but no sailor seen nearby.

At 10.15 a.m., Surat Thani Gov. Wichawut Jinto was alerted about a life jacket not worn by a sailor being seen floating in the sea about 25 nautical miles from Koh Tao island.

Wichawut then instructed the officials to alert the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center in Chumphon to instruct their officers based on this island to bring the item ashore and inspect it. Continued …

Chula academics warn of challenges in shift to EVs

The government and businesses must brace for new disruptions and challenges as Thailand shifts to the electric vehicle (EV) era, part of state efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, say Chulalongkorn University scholars.

At present, more than 60% of greenhouse gas emissions in Thailand come from the transport and power generation sectors, so businesses in these sectors need to adapt themselves as the government promotes more use of clean energy and zero-emission cars, according to the researchers.

Thailand’s consumption of fossil fuels is expected to peak in 2030, then decrease significantly as a result of the government’s renewable energy and EV development plans, said Weerin Wangjiraniran, a researcher at Chulalongkorn University’s Energy Research Institute (ERI) during a seminar on the impact of the carbon neutrality campaign yesterday. Continued …

Thailand Legal Cannabis Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis

The Thailand legal cannabis market size is expected to reach USD 9.6 billion by 2030 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 58.4% from 2022 to 2030

The growth is attributed to the rising usage of cannabis for recreational and medical purposes. Cannabis legalization has opened new revenue-generating opportunities for various industries in the country. The adoption of CBD oil and tinctures for treating various ailments like nausea, anxiety, and cancer, along with the rising prevalence of cancer are some of the significant factors boosting the industry’s growth.

The growing burden of chronic pain has also augmented the rise in the usage of CBD for treatments related to pain management, and thus, positively impacting the market growth. Various studies have shown positive outcomes of marijuana and its derivatives to treat symptoms of several chronic conditions.

For instance, it has been effectively used to treat patients dealing with chronic pain, nausea induced by chemotherapy, and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Hence, FDA and other government organizations are permitting marijuana derivatives for the prescription of several diseases. This is one of the key factors for the quick turnaround. Continued …

Weed’s next frontier is in Asia

Asia is beginning to warm up to the use of cannabis. Thailand legalized marijuana cultivation at home in 2022, while South Korea, Japan and Malaysia are paving the way for pharmaceutical applications. With the weed market estimated to be a $100 billion industry by 2026, according to research firm Prohibition Partners, regional businesses are preparing for demand from Asian consumers.

The Thai decision to remove cannabis from narcotics control lists is nominally to support its medical use, but this will naturally ease recreational consumption, which may boost international tourist inflows.

Renewable energy firm Gunkul Engineering committed 2 billion baht ($57.6 million) to building a new cannabis plantation and extraction facilities, local Thai media reported. Cannabis-leaf chicken leg snacks and cannabidiol-infused green teas made by Bangkok-listed Srinanaporn Marketingand Ichitan Group already line the shelves of local supermarkets. Continued …

Thailand welcomes nearly 11 million tourists this year

Tourist arrivals in Thailand could hit the 11 million mark before the year is through, according to the governor of the Tourism Author ity of Thailand (TAT), Yuthasak Supaporn.

Between Jan. 1 and Dec. 20, Thailand welcomed 10.9 million tourists from around the world, the governor said this morning.

With high season in full swing, Yuthasak said he expects tourist arrivals to reach 11.5 million before the year’s end. Continued … 

New Year celebrations not canceled yet, officials say

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) backs New Year countdowns and celebrations going ahead as planned as long as the government does not order any cancellations.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said, at the moment, the TAT has not yet received any warning that an order of this nature is forthcoming after a number of provinces decided to downgrade their countdown events this year.

Neither the tourism minister nor Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha had given any indication that events supported by private sector partnerships across 12 provinces were in jeopardy, he said. Continued … 

Khao San Road cancels Dec 31 ‘Countdown’ event

Khao San Road in Bangkok became the latest high profile tourist venue to cancel their special “countdown” event on New Year’s Eve.

The street’s traders’ association chief Sagna Reuangwattanakun said he was responding to official requests to tone down celebrations. But he said businesses in the area would still be open on Dec. 31.

Instead of a big fuss, there would be a giant ball for tourists to take pictures with and live TV scenes from other places around the world celebrating New Year. – Sanook

Bangkok 2023 countdown at Iconsiam still on

Bangkok’s “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023” at Iconsiam on New Year’s Eve has not been canceled, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) insisted.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Friday that no cancellation orders have arrived from the government or the Tourism and Sports Ministry.

“The ‘Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023’ focuses on happiness, hope and moving forward together to boost the country’s economy after it was hit by the pandemic for five years,” he said. – The Nation

Foreigners donate blood after massive shortage due to foreigner mishaps

Foreigners donated blood after a massive shortage of Rh Negative in Phuket due to increasing numbers of foreigners who have been involved in accidents.

The donations Thursday were held at the Central Floresta department store.

Dr. Weerasak Lorthongkam, the director of the Vachira Phuket Hospital, said, “In Thai people, there are only 0.3 percent who have special blood types. Continued … 

Outbound travelers surge to 3-year high

The New Year holiday is expected to see 33,400 Thais traveling overseas every day, increasing from an average of 28,000, mainly driven by pent-up demand from years of the pandemic, says the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said the number of Thai travelers was surging as many popular destinations have reopened with no restrictions.

Meanwhile, weaker foreign currencies against the baht were also helping the growing outbound market, he said. Continued …

Could Thailand’s Southeast Coastal Gem Khanom Be the Next Koh Samui?

The search for the next big resort destination in Thailand is an absolutely big ask. Thailand is an expansive country with 77 provinces and an amazing array of diverse geographical locations, Instagram-worthy aspects, and distinctly different nuances.

Out of this brazen travel chaos, the endearing term “same same, but different” was born and remains highly relevant.

Yet, one of the simple truths of emerging destinations remains the adage “you can’t stay there if you can’t get there”. Potential is one thing but reality bites when getting to it is just too painful for words.

Here in Thailand, one of my favorite places is Koh Samui. It marches to its own drum beat, and the vibe is undeniable. Still, access is never easy, the cost to get there is on the high side, and options for access are limited. Continued …

 

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