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Friday’s news-Feb 16

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Today’s news: Hua Hin Hospital warns of poor air quality/Thailand’s hotspots surge/Increased alcohol sales hours rejected/Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival/Hua Hin Yoga Festival/Dustman Hua Hin gravel cycling/Groups tackle Asia’s strays/Mike Tyson explains his cannabis business/Economy: Digital wallet stalled/Thailand mulling nuclear/Oil fund deficit/Pact ramps up Thai exports/Insurance companies warned on EVs/Tourism: Thailand to expand visa-free access/Chinese tourism soars/Soaring travel costs to Phuket/Chinese Tourist Plunges to Death/Environment: Struggle to control PM2.5 levels/Just 31 days of good air/Airborne pollution to worsen/Renewable Energy Thailand/’World’s priciest carbon credits’/Thailand Experience: Thailand’s World Heritage in Danger?/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin Hospital warns of poor air quality in region

Hua Hin Hospital has issued a warning to residents and visitors about deteriorating air quality in the Hua Hin district. The hospital shared concerning data about the current levels of air pollution.

(Editor note: The image above is linked to the AQI index information for the Hua Hin area, and is available to readers every day.)

According to the report, the air quality index (AQI) in Hua Hin reached a worrying level of 196 as of 8am, nearly double the threshold of what is considered safe. Health standards suggest that AQI values should ideally not exceed 100 to avoid adverse health effects. Continued …

Thailand’s hotspots surge, sparking environmental concerns

The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reported a surge in hotspots across Thailand and neighboring countries, exceeding 1,700 points in Thailand alone as of Feb. 14. (More about Thailand’s air pollution problem in the “Environment” section below.)

This data, collected from the Suomi NPP satellite alongside other satellites, raised concerns, particularly as the majority of these hotspots are located in conservation forests and national parks. With neighboring countries also experiencing significant numbers of hotspots, regional environmental concerns are heightened. Continued …

Beverage committee rejects increased alcohol sales hours

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee on Thursday chose not to agree to increasing the selling period of alcoholic beverages from 2pm to 5pm.

Committee secretary Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, who also heads the Department of Disease Control, said the move would violate a coup-era decree going back to 1972. That dictum limits the selling of alcoholic beverage in Thailand to two periods per day — 11am to 2pm, and 5pm to midnight — in a bid to ensure public order and safety. Continued …

Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival starts tomorrow

A wonderful time of year to visit any vineyard is harvest time. It is when the grapes are being picked and processed, offering a unique opportunity to witness the wine-making process and to see the vineyard at its most active.

In February, the Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival 2024 is happening at Hua Hin’s Monsoon Valley vineyard. This year’s festival, happening from Feb. 17-25, promises an immersive and fun experience into the world of wine making. Continued …

Hua Hin Yoga Festival this weekend

The Hua Hin Yoga Festival will take place this Friday-Sunday. The event starts at 5pm each evening and is free of charge, but you need to register beforehand.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Khiri Khan office, in collaboration with Hua Hin municipality, Hua Hin/Cha-am Tourism Business Assn. Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Thai AirAsia Hua Hin, YEC Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Verso Hotel Hua Hin, Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, Shakti Yoga and government and private sector partners organized the festival at Khao Takiab Beach in front of Verso Hua Hin Hotel. Continued …

Dustman Hua Hin gravel cycling event set March 1-2

Hua Hin is gearing up for the annual Dustman Hua Hin cycling event, scheduled for March 1-2.

This event, organized by Bike Zone Co., in collaboration with local authorities and tourism organizations, aims to showcase the region’s natural beauty through the burgeoning sport of gravel cycling. Continued …

Happy Doggo & Soi Dog tackle Asia’s strays

Happy Doggo and the Soi Dog Foundation have joined forces to tackle Asia’s stray animal crisis head-on with a colossal campaign. Aimed at putting an end to the suffering of homeless animals across the continent, this ambitious initiative promises to revolutionize the fight against the stray population.

Animals 24-7, jaded by seeing grandiose claims in appeals and media releases, recalls the skepticism initially met with the joint venture’s announcement. However, the source, Soi Dog Foundation, carries weight as the first charity to hit the million mark for spay/neuter surgeries in Thailand. Continued … 

Mike Tyson explains his cannabis business effort in Thailand

In an exclusive interview with Mike Tyson, the boxing legend revealed his daring venture into Thailand’s cannabis market with Tyson 2.0, sparking both business strategy and personal mission.

In a deep-dive discussion, Tyson unveiled the intertwined relationship between cannabis and combat sports, recounting his escapade in Thailand and the serendipity that spared him from the long arm of the law. Now, with Thailand’s shifting cannabis landscape, Tyson sees an opportunity to revolutionize attitudes toward the herb. Continued …

Digital wallet stalled for more studies

A much-anticipated meeting of the board overseeing the government’s digital wallet program ended on Thursday with the establishment of a subcommittee to thoroughly study all rules and regulations and report back in 30 days.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said afterward that the new panel would look into the concerns and suggestions raised by the Council of State and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NAAC). Continued …

Thailand mulling nuclear-powered transition to alternative energy

Energy Minister Piraphan Salirathavibhaga will have the final say on whether to include a nuclear power plant as a source of alternative energy in the revised Power Development Plan (PDP), the ministry said on Thursday.

The ministry is currently revising points in the PDP on the ratio of natural gas and renewable energy, and power-saving measures, Permanent Secretary Prasert Sinsukprasert said. The revised plan will include a proposal to build Thailand’s first nuclear power plant. Continued …

Oil fund deficit headed toward Bt100 billion amid high global price

The Oil Fuel Fund will see its accumulated deficit reach 100 billion baht by April due to high fuel prices and volatile geopolitical risks, an informed source at the Energy Ministry said on Thursday. The fund has been spent on subsidizing diesel prices – at 5.30 baht per liter at present, up by 0.73 baht from 4.57 baht per liter previously.

Due to higher diesel prices in the global market over the past few days, the fuel fund needs an average of 375 million baht per day to subsidize diesel prices in the domestic market. As a result, an average of 11 billion baht is required every month. Continued …

ASEAN-China pact ramps up Thai exports

The ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) has significantly boosted Thai exports to China, particularly processed sugar items such as syrup, artificial honey and various sweeteners.

Thailand posted annual growth of 145% for processed sugar exports to China over the past decade, according to the Foreign Trade Department. Continued …

Email: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Insurance companies warned of risks in covering electric vehicles

The Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) on Thursday warned insurance companies to exercise caution when accepting insurance for electric vehicles (EV), after an American EV-maker recalled over 2 million units due to a malfunction in the autopilot system.

During a meeting with members of Thai General Insurance Assn., OIC Assistant Secretary-general Apakorn Panlerd urged insurers to employ risk-management strategies in handling EV cases, as EVs operate differently from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and therefore carry higher risks. Continued …

Thailand to expand visa-free access, says PM

The government plans to offer visa-free travel to citizens of several more countries, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Friday. Thailand has recently waived visas for citizens of China and India to boost tourism, a key driver of Southeast Asia’s second-biggest economy.

On Wednesday, Srettha and David Hurley, the governor-general of Australia, had a meeting at Government House and agreed with a proposal to consider the possibility of introducing a mutual visa exemption scheme to facilitate travel and business activity between the people of both nations. Continued …

Thailand sees Chinese tourism soar as visa requirement dropped

Bangkok’s Chinatown, lit up by red lanterns and decorative banners to celebrate the Lunar New Year holidays, is bustling. As the region welcomed the Year of the Dragon last weekend, ethnic Chinese Thais thronged temples to light candles and pray for good fortune.

Inside the glowing red interior of Wat Mangkon Kamalawat – the largest Chinese temple in Bangkok – women wore traditional cheongsam dresses and took photos with their loved ones. Continued …

Soaring travel costs to Phuket spark tourist backlash

The soaring cost of air travel to Phuket has sparked a backlash from local tourists, with low-cost carriers reportedly charging up to 14,000 baht (US$388) for a round trip from Bangkok. Despite making bookings weeks in advance, some travelers reported paying 5,000 baht (US$138) for a one-way ticket.

The president of the southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA), Suksit Suvunditkul, confirmed that both airfares and hotel prices in Phuket have been on a steady increase since the pandemic’s end. Continued …

Koh Samet: Chinese Tourist Plunges to His Death from Resort Balcony

Yesterday, Lt. Col. Nonthanat Chomchuen, deputy superintendent of Phe Police Station, Rayong Province, received a report of a tourist falling from a height and dying at a resort on Koh Samet, Moo 4, Tambon Phe, Amphoe Mueang, Rayong Province.

Authorities rushed to the scene with investigative teams, Rayong Hospital physicians, and representatives from the Suan Phra Kukson Foundation. Continued …

Royal Rainmaking Department struggles to control Bangkok PM2.5 levels

The Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department admits its efforts to tackle sky-high PM2.5 levels in Bangkok are being thwarted by the haze drifting from Myanmar.

The department’s Director-General, Supit Pithaktham, revealed that despite their daily endeavors since December to produce artificial rain, the intensified burning of farmland in Myanmar has unleashed a relentless barrage of pollution, carried by easterly winds into Bangkok. Continued …

Bangkok residents enjoyed just 31 days of good air in 2023

Bangkokians experienced good air quality for a paltry 31 days in 2023, according to a study by Rocket Media Lab, which collected data from the World Air Quality Index over the past year.

The independent database analyst said the number of “good air days” dropped 8.5% from the previous year, when city dwellers could breathe fresh air on 49 days. Continued …

Airborne pollution forecast to worsen this weekend

The PM2.5 problem in and around Bangkok, in 17 northern provinces and in the northeast is predicted to get worse this weekend, while the situation in the south is steadily improving, according to the Air Pollution Mitigation Center.

Chiang Mai

Airborne pollution in the eastern region is forecast to ease from next Wednesday. Continued …

Renewable Energy Thailand: Pioneering Sustainability in Southeast Asia

As global environmental awareness surges, renewable energy stands at the forefront of sustainable development, playing a vital role in shaping a greener future. In this context, nations are increasingly turning to renewable sources as pivotal elements of their energy strategies.

Among these nations, Thailand is notable for its commitment to renewable energy. The journey through renewable energy in Thailand is complex and laden with both opportunities and challenges, highlighting the importance of expert legal guidance in navigating this evolving landscape. Continued … 

‘World’s priciest carbon credits’ in Thailand’s first forest scheme

The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) has purchased 400 tons of carbon credits at what is considered the world’s highest price for such a project. The bank bought 120 million baht worth of credits at 30,000 baht per ton in the BAAC carbon credit project, the first forest carbon credit initiative in Thailand.

Centered on two treebanks in Khon Kaen province, Tha Li and Ban Daeng, the project aims to meet the needs of the public and private sectors in achieving carbon neutrality and zero net greenhouse gas emissions. Continued …

Thailand’s World Heritage in Danger?

Having been designated as Natural World Heritage sites, Thailand’s most valued forests are highly expected from the public that they can retain their ecological values that meet global recognition and the context of the new global biodiversity framework.

However, the three sites — Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries, Dong Phaya Yen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, and Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex — have been facing pressure from highly charged threats, from sophisticated poaching to unsound state development, to a decades-long land rights conflict, prompting their world heritage status and conservation work to be critically challenged. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

bangkok, chiang mai, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Feb 12

Today’s news: Our newest Sponsor: Expat Financial Services/Roses and teddy bears/PKK tops 11 million visitors/600+ hotspots in Thailand/Messy pot of inequality/Bangkok’s future aspirations/Thailand’s sugar intake/Lottery fever heats up/Kanom Krok top ASEAN pancake/Economy: Optimistic growth outlook/Economic crisis feared/On the edge of a precipice?/Backed into a corner/Japanese outlay of Bt10B/Tourism: Nearly 4 million arrivals/Visa-free a mixed blessing/Boat Carrying Chinese Tourists Capsizes/Koh Samui Sees Increase in Visitors/5,000 Chinese tourists a day on Phuket/Urged To Reduce Usage Of US$/Chinese Man Falls to His Death/Suvarnabhumi’s capacity to increase/Lufthansa plane splattered in blood/Environment: Solar solutions sought/Thailand Experience: Chinese New Year celebrations/Retiring as a Couple in Thailand/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Email: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Roses and teddy bears top the list of Valentine’s gifts

Recognizing that 90% of couples tend to leave buying a gift for their loved one until the last minute, the 1 Insight and CRC VoiceShare are highlighting the top 10 perennially best-selling gifts to help retailers boost their sales in the run-up to Valentine’s Day, which falls on Wednesday.

They also recommend that shopping malls and restaurants, the two most popular locations for Valentine’s Day celebrations, engage in effective communication that resonates with these last-minute lovers. Continued …

Hua Hin’s Khao Takiab

PKK tops 11 million visitors in 2023

Prachuap Khiri Khan Province has emerged as the top revenue earner from tourism in Thailand’s central region for the year 2023.

Deputy Governor Komkrit Charoenpatanasombat announced on Friday (Feb 9) that the province attracted 11,143,079 visitors throughout the year, marking a significant 14.31% increase over the previous year. Continued …

Satellite images show 600+ hotspots in Thailand

Satellite images show there are some 600 hotspots in Thailand, mostly on forested land, and more than 4,000 in Cambodia, the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Agency (GISTDA) said.

GISTDA said the hotspots included 169 in national forest reserves, 153 in protected forests, 130 in farm areas, 79 in farmland reform areas, 53 in other areas and seven along highways. Continued …

Why Bangkok is a messy pot of inequality and dysconnectivity

One can experience the heights of human material achievements inside luxury malls, condos, hotels, offices, and supercars. Step outside, and it’s a different world. One would cough up dust, skip over potholes, dodge construction tools dropping down from above, run after buses, sidestep speeding motorbikes, look left and right warily at road crossings as if about to enter a war zone, and always have some cash in hand in case the police stopped you for any reason.

Privileged children spend their lives inside chauffeured vans, eyes glued to their iPads, while outside, unfortunate children try to sell flowers to apathetic drivers, who avert their gaze and move their cars away. Towering high-rises stand next to the poorest slums. The finest European sportscar races past some makeshift crossbreed of a motorbike and a wagon. Continued …

Residents share their vision for Bangkok’s future aspirations

A recent announcement on the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority (BMA) Facebook page inspired many Bangkokians to express their ideas and aspirations for the capital’s future.

The call to action resulted in many constructive comments and feedback either via an online platform or through mail. Here are the top 10 comments in response to BMA’s call for envisioning Bangkok’s ideal future: Continued …

Thailand’s sugar intake quadruples WHO daily limit

Thailand’s sugar consumption has soared to a worrying level, with Thai citizens consuming on average 23 teaspoons of sugar per day, almost quadruple the daily limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Pairoj Saonuam, the assistant chief executive officer at the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), highlighted the health risks associated with such high consumption on Sunday. He identified heart attacks, strokes, cancers and diabetes as the major health hazards linked to excessive sugar intake among the Thai population. Continued …

Thailand lottery fever heats up: Friday draw sparks fortune frenzy

Thailand lottery fever heats up for enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the latest draw on Friday, with various sources hinting at the numbers that may bring good fortune. The collective buzz around these predictions gathers momentum, capturing the imagination of those hoping to strike it lucky.

Channel 3’s Chinese calendar lottery numbers are generating excitement this cycle. The calendar, featuring news presenters such as Sorayuth Suthasanachinda, Bright Pitchayatan, Korrakot Kamaneeploy, and Kittisanghahapad, is touted as particularly lucky, having seemingly bestowed good fortune numerous times in the preceding year. Continued …

Kanom Krok flips named top ASEAN pancake

Online foodie travel guide TasteAtlas ranked Thai dessert Kanom Krok as the fourth best pancake in the world. Additionally, the delectable dessert was crowned champion in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

TasteAtlas last week released its list of Top 85 Pancakes in the World on its platform with one of Thailand’s much-loved desserts, Kanom Krok, high on the list. Continued …

Optimistic growth outlook for 22 industries in 2024

Twenty-two industries have demonstrated growth, while 12 are battling contraction, according to a recent report by the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB), which revealed the findings from a comprehensive survey on likely industry trends in 2024.

Covering insights from 46 industrial groups across five regions, the survey highlighted notable patterns and concerns shaping the industrial landscape. Continued …

Economic crisis feared amid digital wallet dispute

The Bank of Thailand and the government have been at odds for months, with tensions escalating last week when the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) kept interest rates at 2.5% despite political pressure for a reduction. This disagreement came to the fore during discussions about the digital wallet scheme, a 560-billion-baht (US$15.58 billion) project that the central bank has urged caution over.

A poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) revealed that 68.8% of respondents wouldn’t be upset if the project was abandoned, while Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai remains committed to the scheme. He argued it is essential for reviving the economy and warned that a crisis akin to the 1997 Tom Yam Kung crisis could occur without some form of stimulus. Continued …

On the edge of a precipice? Not so fast

Tensions between the Bank of Thailand and the coalition government led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is also the finance minister, have been apparent for months and flared up last week after the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decided to maintain interest rates at 2.5% following a political push for a reduction.

The rift was exposed during the discussion on the digital wallet scheme, with the central bank urging caution with the 560-billion-baht project. Continued …

Government finds itself backed into a corner on digital wallet scheme

The Thai government’s controversial plan to raise 500 billion baht through an off-budget loan for the digital wallet scheme has run into another roadblock.

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) recently issued a warning that the scheme risked violating the Constitution and related laws and was vulnerable to corruption. Continued …

Japanese outlay of Bt10B fuels Thai S-curve sectors

Two Japanese firms are planning to spend a total of 10 billion baht expanding their investment into Thailand in S-curve industries, says the Industry Ministry.

The Thai government is promoting 12 targeted S-curve industries, including smart electronics. The two companies are interested in investing in air and compressor manufacturing, said officials. Continued …

Tourism sees strong start to the year with nearly 4 million arrivals

Thailand welcomed 128,969 foreign visitors on Feb. 8, two days ahead of this year’s Chinese New Year, while total foreign arrivals this year nearly reached 4 million, Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said on Saturday.

From Jan. 1 to Feb. 8, a total of 3,963,744 foreigners entered Thailand, Chai reported. Visitors from China topped the list with 730,747, followed by travelers from Malaysia (419,116), Russia (275,641), India (209,431) and Laos (130,551). Continued …

Visa-free influx proves to be mixed blessing

Thailand is experiencing an influx of foreign visitors, as the government’s visa-free policy for tourists from countries including China has given the industry a much-needed boost.

However, business operators have called on the government to devise measures to address shortages of skilled laborers in the industry, improve transport infrastructure in provinces that are also major tourist spots, as well as deal with criminals exploiting the visa-exemption policy to enter the country and run illegal businesses. Continued …

Boat Carrying Chinese Tourists Capsizes, All Safely Rescued

A long-tail boat carrying seven Chinese tourists plus the vessel’s crew members capsized off Krabi yesterday, but fortunately all were safely rescued by a passing boat. The accident occurred near Koh Lao Lading island, around 300 meters from Koh Hong, with the two islands being part of Krabi’s Than Bok Khorani National Park.

The long-tail boat capsized after being hit by high waves, with the tourists and crew members struggling to stay afloat in the middle of the sea. Continued …

Koh Samui Sees Increase in Visitors Following Visa Exemptions

Wiwat Chuenban, the chairman of the Surat Thani Provincial Tourism Industry Council, revealed an increasing number of foreign and Thai tourists visiting Koh Samui in January and February.

After a visa exemption for Chinese tourists, there were four direct flights from Chengdu, China, to Surat Thani in one week. There was also a direct flight route from Taiwan to Surat Thani, as well, resulting in a surging number of bookings of more than 672 hotels, and 25,000 rooms were reserved, according to Wiwat. Continued …

5,000 Chinese tourists a day on Phuket over Chinese New Year

Chinese tourists have descended on Phuket to celebrate Chinese New Year, pushing hotel occupancy on the island to 81%. Phuket has long been a popular destination for Chinese travelers due its strong Chinese heritage and ancestry.

The director of the Phuket office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand says the number of Chinese arrivals has jumped to between 4,000 and 5,000 a day. Lertchai Wangtrakuldee says this is the highest number of arrivals of any nationality and the island expects to see revenue of 6.8 billion baht from the holiday period. Continued …

Thai Travel Industry Urged To Reduce Usage Of US$

In a lecture at this year’s joint meeting of the Association of Thai Travel Agents and the Thai Hotels Assn. , Professor Dr. Piti Srisangnam, head of the ASEAN Foundation, cited “de-dollarization” as one of “6D” trends that will shake up travel and tourism, the other five being decoupling/derisking of the global value chains, deglobalization, destabilization, the digital divide, and degradation of environment.

The lecture is set to reset the content of industry discourse, in Thailand and beyond. For the first time, two leading Thai travel and tourism industry associations invited a professor to discuss the impact of geopolitical conflicts on their businesses, jettisoning the repetitively boring talks on post-Covid recovery, sustainability and technology. Continued …

Another one? Chinese Man Falls to His Death From Pattaya Condo

A 35-year-old Chinese man on vacation with his family in Pattaya for the Chinese New Year reportedly fell to his death from a condo in north Pattaya yesterday afternoon. The incident took place at approximately 2pm at a condo in central Pattaya whose name has been withheld pending further investigation.

The victim, identified by his family to the press and police as 35-year-old Yuanhui Lai, had reportedly fallen to his death from the balcony of a rented condo on the 18th floor of the condominium. Continued …

Suvarnabhumi’s capacity to increase after third runway is operational in July

The construction of the third runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport will be completed in time for its use in July, Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit said Sunday. Once the new runway is in use, the airport capacity will be increased from 67 flights per hour to 94 flights per hour, Suriya added.

The airport’s first runway is located on the west side of the airport and the second runway on the east side, separated by passenger terminal buildings and other facilities. The third runway is being built further away from the first runway near the east edge of the airport. Continued …

German passenger’s mid-flight death leaves Lufthansa plane splattered in blood

On a Lufthansa flight from Bangkok to Munich, a 63-year-old German passenger sparked panic in the cabin when he began spurting an endless flow of blood.

The German passenger boarded the plane visibly ill. As the flight progressed, his condition rapidly deteriorated, causing panic among the passengers. A fellow passenger described the scene as absolute horror, with everyone screaming in fear. Continued …

Solar solutions sought for residential electric users

Four years ago, Boonyuen Siritham, president of the Thailand Consumers Council (TCC), paid around 17,000 baht to 18,000 baht monthly in petrol and electricity bills.

As an environmentalist, she aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and cut her expenses so she decided to install a solar rooftop and switched to an electric car. Since then, she pays only 2,500 baht per month for electricity. Continued …

Chinese New Year celebrations across Thailand

Chiang Mai has been transformed into a mesmerizing spectacle, as lion and golden dragon dance troupes from Bangkok took to the streets for the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Store owners eagerly invited them inside, hoping to bask in the good luck and prosperity they brought. Meanwhile, at the iconic Tha Phae Gate, Chinese tourists swarmed, dressed in Thai traditional attire, as they posed against the backdrop of the ancient city wall, a sight that truly defined Chiang Mai. Continued …

From Dreams to Reality: Retiring as a Couple in Thailand

Dreaming of retiring to Thailand with your better half? You’re not alone. Thailand, with its sun-kissed beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, has become a haven for couples looking to spend their golden years in paradise.

Whether you’re enticed by the tranquillity of rural towns or the bustling expat communities in cities like Hua Hin, retiring in Thailand offers a blend of adventure and relaxation that’s hard to beat. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

bangkok, chiang mai, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation, wildlife tourism

Wednesday’s news-Jan 10

Today’s news: Thailand’s escalating smog crisis/Bottled water contains more plastic particles than thought/Driving license scam/Amazing Muay Thai World Festival/Hua Hin’s crab bank/Hua Hin Grab driver praised/Mysterious mass death/NPS plans to launch 200 electric trucks/Elephant herd continues to cause havoc/Economy: No go-ahead for digital wallet/Thai online vendors required to file taxes/Set to surpass rice export target/Tourism: Chinese tourists search for new experiences/Over 600,000 foreign tourists arrive/Thailand Bolsters Thai Cuisine/Scandinavian airlines increase flights/Pot law won’t blunt arrivals/Thailand Experience: Hua Hin’s night markets/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand’s escalating smog crisis: Choking smog in 55 provinces

People in 55 of the 77 provinces were breathing dirty air this morning, with red-coded pollution levels in 20 provinces, mainly in the Central Plains.

The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reported at 9am that unsafe levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and less in diameter (PM2.5) ranged from 38.7 to 113.6 micrograms per cubic meter of air over the previous 24 hours. The government-set safe threshold is 37.5µg/m³. Continued …

Bottled water contains more plastic particles than thought

A typical one-liter (33-ounce) bottle of water contains some 240,000 plastic fragments on average, according to a new study. Many of those fragments have historically gone undetected, the researchers determined, suggesting that health concerns linked to plastic pollution may be dramatically underestimated.

The peer-reviewed study, published Monday in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, is the first to evaluate bottled water for the presence of “nanoplastics” — plastic particles under 1 micrometer in length, or one-seventieth the width of a human hair. The findings show that bottled water could contain up to 100 times more plastic particles than previously estimated, as earlier studies only accounted for microplastics, or pieces between 1 and 5,000 micrometers. Continued …

Motorists warned about driving license scam

You might have seen this posted on Facebook – but (spoiler alert) you absolutely can’t get a legal driver’s license in Thailand by messaging someone on the LINE app and having them take the test for you.

The Royal Thai Police are cautioning the public about an ongoing scam involving the fraudulent issuance of driver’s licenses, which has been advertised on social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok. Continued …

Hua Hin to host Amazing Muay Thai World Festival Feb 4-6

Fans of Muay Thai are in for a treat as Hua Hin prepares to host the Amazing Muay Thai World Festival 2024 Feb. 4-6. Municipal officials met on Tuesday to finalize plans for this highly anticipated event.

The meeting, led by Komkrit Charoenphatthanasombat, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, included key representatives from various sectors. Busaba Choksuchart, the deputy Mmyor of Hua Hin, represented the city’s municipal administration. Continued …

Hua Hin’s crab bank volunteers honored

The founder and team of volunteers behind Hua Hin’s crab bank project have been honored with the 2023 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories award.

This accolade, presented in a ceremony on Jan.8, highlights the contributions of members of the local community in Khao Takiab in promoting environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. Continued …

Hua Hin Grab driver praised for trying to save foreigner

In an act of courage and quick thinking, an unnamed Grab rider became an unexpected hero after performing CPR on an unconscious foreigner involved in a traffic accident in Hua Hin. Despite the efforts of the Grab driver and first responders, the motorcyclist later died.

The incident occurred on yesterday at 10:12 am close to the irrigation canal on Soi 70. The Sawang Hua Hin Dhammasthan Rescue Unit reported that a foreign male, riding a motorcycle, collided with a pickup truck and was found unconscious with no pulse. Continued …

Mysterious mass death at Chiang Mai Night Safari

Chiang Mai Night Safari, a popular tourist attraction in Thailand, has faced a mysterious mass death of 13 endangered animals, a significant blow to the country’s wildlife. The casualties include a valuable white tiger, with veterinarians attributing the deaths to various causes, including natural aging and diseases.

Visitors to the Chiang Mai Night Safari had expressed disappointment, reporting that the number of rare and expensive animals was significantly reduced. They lamented that the entrance fee did not justify the experience, considering the scarcity of unique wildlife. Continued …

NPS plans to launch 200 electric trucks powered by solar energy

National Power Supply Plc (NPS) announced this week that it is planning to launch a new fleet of 200 electric trucks powered by solar energy this year. The trucks will be used to transport goods for the company’s operations.

The trucks are manufactured by NPS Solar, a subsidiary of NPS. They have a range of up to 200 kilometers and can be fully charged in about two hours. Continued …

Elephant herd continues to cause havoc in central Thailand

Volunteers in Prachin Buri province warned reporters to watch out for wild elephants in Wang Tha Chang subdistrict Monday, during their visit.

The subdistrict administrative organization and village headman were watching out for wild elephants from Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, Chachoengsao Province, which migrated across the border. The herd, comprising over 150 elephants, invaded deep into the local village to find food in the areas of Wang Tha Chang subdistrict and Khao Mai Kaeo subdistrict, Kabinburi District, Prachin Buri Province since last year. Continued …

Council of State says no go-ahead for digital wallet yet

The Council of State’s secretary-general rejected claims that the government’s advisory board has given the go-ahead to legislation allowing a 500- billion-baht loan to finance the digital wallet scheme.

Pakorn Nilprapunt, secretary-general of the Council of State office, told reporters on Tuesday that the council’s response to the Finance Ministry was confidential and only the ministry could disclose the details. “However, it definitely does not contain any indication of a ‘greenlight’,” Pakorn added. Continued …

Thai online vendors required to file taxes from 2024

Online vendors are required to file taxes for the year 2024, with the Revenue Department mandating online platforms to disclose income data. This directive, effective from Jan. 1, applies to all businesses, including e-commerce, food and product delivery services like Shopee, Lazada, Grab, and TikTok.

These platforms, registered in Thailand and having an annual income exceeding 1 billion baht, are obligated to maintain special accounts. These accounts should display the income data of the online vendors selling goods or services on these platforms and must be submitted to the Revenue Department within 150 days from the end of the accounting period. Continued …

Thailand set to surpass 2023 rice export target

Thailand is poised to exceed its 2023 rice export target of 8.5 million tons thanks to a notable surge in purchases in November, the rice export association said.

Charoen Laothamatas, president of the Thai Rice Exporters Assn., said on Tuesday that rice exports in November hit 1.007 million tons, worth 23.01 billion baht, up by 19.9% and 23.3% compared to October, respectively. Continued …

Chinese tourists search for new experiences in Thailand

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reveals that travel trends of Chinese tourists have shifted, no longer visiting Thailand in large tour groups. Data from the TAT and ATTA roadshow to China 2023 revealed a seismic shift toward independent and small-group travel, with groups of six to eight stealing the show.

Nonglux Yooyendee, the director of TAT’s Shanghai office, disclosed that Chinese tourists are no longer settling for mundane sightseeing. Instead, they’re craving high-quality tours tailored for the young, families, luxury enthusiasts, and those yearning for an authentic local experience. Continued …

Over 600,000 foreign tourists arrive in Thailand on first week of 2024

Thailand has welcomed over 600,000 foreign visitors during the first week of 2024, with the Chinese topping the list for the first week of the year. According to a report, Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Thailand’s tourism minister, says a total of 605,537 have arrived in the kingdom in the period Jan. 1 – 7.

This figure is a drop of 23.3% compared to the last week of December 2023. She says this is due to the New Year holiday period being over, resulting in a drop in visitors from all of Thailand’s tourism markets. Continued …

Thailand Bolsters Global Presence of Thai Cuisine

Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), under the auspices of the Ministry of Commerce, has unveiled a novel campaign dubbed “Travel, Taste, Eat Thai SELECT”. The strategic move forms a key part of the government’s “soft power” policy, aiming to globally propagate Thai culture and heritage via its distinct culinary offerings.

The campaign seeks to motivate Thai restaurants worldwide to strive for the Thai SELECT certification, a seal denoting authenticity and supreme quality of Thai food. Continued …

Scandinavian airlines increase flight frequencies to Thailand

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) unveiled a soaring surge in flights from Scandinavian cities, transforming Thailand into a must-visit destination.

Leading the charge is Norse Atlantic Airways, stealing the limelight with its announcement of an extended direct Oslo-Bangkok service for both the summer 2024 and winter 2024/2025 seasons. Norse plans twice-weekly flights from May 29 to Sept. 7, boasting to 30 flights and 8,700 passenger seats. Continued …

Tourism operators: Pot law won’t blunt arrivals

Tourism operators say the new cannabis and hemp draft law prohibiting recreational use could lead to dispensaries closing down, but it wouldn’t affect the overall tourism industry, as hemp is not a major draw for foreign tourists.

Earlier this week, Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew endorsed a new draft of the cannabis and hemp control bill, aiming to restrict recreational usage, limiting it to medical purposes. The draft requires cabinet approval before it is submitted to the House of Representatives for consideration. Continued …

All about Hua Hin’s night markets

Night markets are ubiquitous to Thailand, and like many other places, Hua Hin is home to an abundance of them. Each market in Hua Hin offers a blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, making them must-visit destinations for anyone in the area.

Whether you’re a visitor exploring Hua Hin for the first time or a local resident who hasn’t visited these markets in a while, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to visit and enjoy the different night markets in Hua Hin. Continued …

South Korea’s National Assembly approves a ban on dog meat consumption

The National Assembly of South Korea on Tuesday decided to completely root out the practice of butchering dogs for consumption by passing a special bill that punishes such activities. The bill seeks to impose a fine of up to 30 million won ($22,800) or a maximum jail term of three years on dog farmers or butchers who are caught killing dogs for consumption. Continued …

Over 1,000 flights cancelled in US due to extreme weather

More than 1,000 domestic and international flights in the United States were canceled Tuesday as extreme weather pummeled the country from coast to coast. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
baht, chiang mai, hua hin, phuket, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism

Friday’s news-Jan 5

Today’s news: Starbucks cup of coffee/Foreign woman collapses on breakwater wall/PM2.5 air pollution budget/256 people killed in road accidents/Five sustainable living trends/Rooftop solar option reviewed/Top predictions for IT/Regulate Artificial Intelligence?/Giant King Cobra scatters golfers/Economy: Baht to strengthen/Short-term stimulus measure planned/Energy minister’s plan sparks potential/Online sales reporting/200,000 Jobs In EEC Smart City/Tourism: Operators question 40 million target/Airports chief expects 8 million Chinese visitors/60 countries and territories can visit Thailand without visa/‘100% recovered’ by December/Phuket Boat Drivers Test Positive/Thailand Experience: Beginner’s Guide To Thailand/January festivals/Why You Should Travel To Chiang Mai/12 best luxury resorts/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Starbucks cup of coffee now costlier than Thailand’s minimum wage

Starbucks, one of Thailand’s most popular coffee chains, announced that the prices of its beverages will be increased by 5 baht at all of its stores across the country from today. One cup of coffee from Starbucks is now more expensive than Thailand’s national minimum wage.

The corporation says the reason for the price hike is due to the current economic situation, which, according to an official Starbucks statement, has caused the cost of operation and management to increase its prices. Continued …

Foreign woman slips and collapses on breakwater wall at Pranburi Beach

The non-profit organization Beach for Life Thailand called for enhanced safety measures following an incident in which a foreign woman slipped and fell on a breakwater wall at Pranburi Beach in the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan. This infamous location has previously caused harm, resulting in a disability for a Thai man.

The foreign woman reportedly lost consciousness after collapsing on the slippery breakwater wall on Jan. 2. A local rescue team went to the scene to provide first aid and take the foreign victim to hospital. The condition of the foreigner has not yet been released. Continued …

‘Disappointing’ budget to fight PM2.5 air pollution

A Move Forward Party MP on Thursday accused the Pheu Thai of not living up to its pre-poll promise to tackle PM2.5 air pollution, as the ruling coalition had allocated too little funds to combat air pollution.

Move Forward’s Chiang Mai MP Phattarapong Leelaphat said on the second day of the budget bill debate that the government of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had made tackling PM2.5 issue a national agenda but the budget allocation was “disappointing”. Continued …

256 people killed in over 2,000 road accidents during New Year holidays

More than 2,000 road accidents occurred during the New Year holiday break, leaving 256 people dead and 2,106 others injured between Dec. 29 and Jan. 3, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.

A total of 2,083 road accidents were reported nationwide during those six days, Education Ministry permanent secretary Suthep Kaengsanthia told a press conference at the department. Continued … 

Five sustainable living trends that could catch on in 2024

Saving the world from climate change and other environmental impacts is a common aspiration of all society, and the private and public sectors worldwide are paying attention to this issue.

Despite accounting for only 0.8% of the global greenhouse gas emissions annually, Thailand is among countries severely affected by climate change. Continued …

Rooftop solar option reviewed as energy alternative

Following the past year’s cabinet meeting on Dec 19, Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga said the government would continue to subsidize electricity to households, declaring the move as a “New Year for the people”.

This would seem risky in light of the Energy Regulatory Committee’s recent ruling that an increase in electricity tariff rates was necessary, as the country imports expensive liquified natural gas (LNG) to keep power plants running. Continued …

Top predictions for IT organizations and users in 2024

Gartner’s top predictions explore how generative AI (GenAI) has changed executive leaders’ way of thinking on every subject and how to create a more flexible and adaptable organization that is better prepared for the future.

“GenAI presents an opportunity to accomplish things never before possible in the scope of human existence,” said Daryl Plummer, distinguished VP analyst at Gartner. “CIOs and executive leaders will embrace the risks of using GenAI so they can reap the unprecedented benefits. Continued …

Does Thailand Need to Regulate Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a powerful force for good in Thailand, improving healthcare, reducing carbon emissions, bridging educational divides and many more. But AI also comes with new challenges in terms of safety, privacy, skills and competitiveness gaps.

To ensure that AI moves ahead on the right track, True Corp. recently organized the AI Gets Good seminar. Representatives from the government sector, the academic sector, and the business sector came together at the event to discuss “How to ensure that AI creates positive impacts in Thai society?” Continued …

Giant King Cobra scatters Chonburi golfers

In the Ban Bueng district of Chon Buri, a typical day of golfing transformed into a scene straight out of a wildlife documentary when an enormous king cobra raised its scary head.

The beastly serpent, sprawled across the green, caused a stir among golfers, who promptly vacated the area in all directions. Upon receiving the distress signal, volunteer rescuers from the Silarattham Samakom Foundation, aptly skilled in handling such incidents, arrived at the golf course. Continued …

Baht to strengthen against US dollar

The baht could strengthen to 33 to the U.S. dollar in the near term as the market is convinced the U.S. Federal Reserve will start cutting interest rates by as early as March, bringing back fund inflows to the Thai currency.

The baht traded at 34.26-34.28 to the greenback on Wednesday, weakening slightly from Tuesday’s close of 34.14. The depreciation was in line with other regional currencies as the U.S. bond yield rose and there was higher demand for the dollar. Continued …

Short-term stimulus measure planned until budget bill is passed

The Finance Ministry is drafting a short-term plan to stimulate the economy, to be implemented before the budget bill for fiscal 2024 takes effect, Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit said on Thursday.

Parliament is currently deliberating the first reading of the government’s proposed 3.48-trillion-baht budget, which concludes today. Continued …

Energy minister’s plan sparks potential for across-the-board cost cuts

Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga unveiled a plan that could slash energy cost  across the board.

Pirapan declared that a paradigm shift is imminent in the gas supply sector, aiming to empower power producers and significantly cut down on electricity expenses. The key? A strategic merger of gas pools to unleash a domino effect that could alter the fortunes of power and petrochemical players. Continued …

Online sales reporting ‘could bring in Bt10 billion in taxes’

A requirement for online platform operators to submit sellers’ income statements to the Revenue Department should increase tax revenue by roughly 10 billion baht, says Lavaron Sangsnit, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Finance.

The new reporting rules, which took effect on Jan. 1, apply to digital platform operators registered in Thailand with annual revenue of more than 1 billion baht. Businesses already supervised by the Bank of Thailand or the Stock Exchange of Thailand will not be subject to the rule. Continued …

Thailand Aims To Create 200,000 Jobs In EEC Smart City

The Thai government approved on Jan. 2 the establishment of the EEC Business Center and Livable Smart City, a special economic zone in the eastern part of Thailand. The zone is expected to become a regional business and financial center by 2027 and one of the 10 most livable smart cities in the world by 2037.

Chai Watcharong, spokesman for the prime minister’s office, revealed that the EEC board, chaired by Phumtham Wechayachai, deputy prime minister and minister of commerce, has agreed with this plan. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism operators question 40 million visitors target

The government’s ambitious target of attracting 40 million foreign visitors is viewed as daunting by Thailand tourism operators, considering factors such as high travel costs, diminished demand in big markets such as China and Russia, and competition from surrounding nations.

Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, who heads the Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation, pinpointed the stagnant Chinese market as a significant issue, with only 3.5 million visitors last year, a sharp decline from the nearly 10 million seen in 2019. Continued …

Airports chief expects 8 million Chinese visitors this year

Airports of Thailand expects the Thai-Chinese visa-free agreement will help bring 8 million Chinese visitors to the country this year, or about 70% of the record total set in 2019, says President Kerati Kijmanawat.

The bilateral agreement between Thailand and China, under which nationals of both countries will no longer have to apply for visas before traveling, is expected to be launched on March 1. A six-month visa-free trial program for Chinese visitors is scheduled to expire at the end of February. Continued …

People from over 60 countries and territories can visit Thailand without visa for 30 days

Foreign visitors from more than 60 countries and territories can enter Thailand without a visa and stay in the country for up to 30 days.

According to the Foreign Ministry’s Department of Consular Affairs, these countries and territories include: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bahrain, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovak, Slovenia, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and Vietnam. Continued … 

Hotel industry ‘100% recovered’ by December end

The Thai hotel industry is expected to see a full recovery from the pandemic’s fallout by the end of the second half of this year, Thai Hotel Assn. (THA) President Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi predicts.

The average occupancy rate of Thai hotels was 60% in 2023, compared to 75% in 2019, the last full year before Covid-19 struck worldwide. Continued …

Five Phuket Boat Drivers Test Positive for Illegal Drugs

Five boat drivers tested positive for illegal drugs recently at a pier in Thalang after a random check.

Phuket Gov. Sophon Suwannarat ordered drug testing for boat drivers at piers in Phuket following a fatal boat accident that took the life of a young Russian girl in which the captain later tested positive for amphetamines. Continued …

A Beginner’s Guide To Thailand

With an estimated 24.6 million foreign tourists arriving in 2023 (as reported by Skift), the Kingdom of Thailand is one of the top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.

For first-time visitors interested in immersive culture, eye-widening landscapes and epic gastronomy, here are some highlights from Thailand’s cities, seas, mountains and jungles: Continued …

January festivals from flowers to music and boats

Lovers of flowers, light and sound, cultural shows, music and boat racing — whatever your interest, there’s an abundance of festival choices for all from the kingdom’s north to its south throughout the first month of 2024.

Key festivals throughout January that promise to impress include:

  • The 20th Chiang Rai Flower Festival, running from now until Jan. 15, is being held by the Muang Chiang Rai municipality at the Tung and Khom Park. The festival also features music in the park from 8pm to 9pm every Saturday from now until Feb. 17. Continued …

Here’s Why You Should Travel To Chiang Mai

When it comes to Thai destinations, Bangkok often steals the spotlight with its busy streets, neon-lit nightlife, and the ever-present hum of activity. But hold on to your tuk tuks because there’s a gem up north quietly asserting itself as the preferred choice for discerning travelers — Chiang Mai.

Step aside, Bangkok, and make room for the city that effortlessly serves cultural richness, natural beauty, and a laid-back vibe. Continued …

The 12 best luxury resorts in Thailand

Thailand is a place where culture, tradition and creativity thrive, and where nature abounds. Bangkok caters to every whim, craving and desire. The chaotic city soon gives way to wild plains and verdant jungle, followed by dreamy coastlines and beautiful islands. Here, the hospitality is warm, the resorts spectacular and the ocean views unrivaled.

Video

Wellness reigns supreme here for mind, body and soul. Contemporary spa concepts are delivered through the lens of Thai ritual, a transformative experience that harmonizes the relationship between mental and physical states. Food is fresh, nourishing and largely sourced from the sea, and the luxury properties that pepper the region provide personalized service and peaceful surrounds. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Dec 2

Today’s news: Feedback: Bad air in Hua Hin/Music festival in Pranburi/Police target gun menace/11 expressway projects/’Gold card’ pharmacy scheme/Solar panels for petrol stations/Motorcyclist Drives into Dangling Cable/Economy: Fragile, weak economy/Urged to embrace circular economy/Over 22,000 debtors register/Japanese investors eye rail line/Groups seek elderly pensions boost/Promotions to drive EV sales/Tourism: Parks drop e-ticketing system/Opening hours extension ‘will boost economy’/Craving American food?/Thailand Experience: Sunflowers bathing Lopburi/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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“When you read the news about bad air, you might think that only Bangkok and the surrounding area have bad air. As with us in Hua Hin, 2.5 values over 40-60 are measured in many places. I really hope for everyone affected that this will improve extremely soon.” – RBM

10-day music festival in Pranburi Dec. 1-10

Pak Nam Pran in Pranburi is hosting the “Lomwongman Music Pranburi” festival, a major music festival spanning 10 days, from Dec. 110.

Organized by the Pak Nam Pran subdistrict addministrative organization in collaboration with Lomwongman and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the festival got underway last night and is set against the scenic backdrop of Maharaj Field by the sea. Continued … 

Police target gun menace

A week before Loy Krathong, the Royal Thai Police (RTP) arrested 14,909 suspects in 14,339 criminal cases in a pre-festival crackdown.

Of those, 1,320 cases were related to the illegal selling of unlicensed guns and illegally owned licensed guns, said National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol. Continued …

EXAT planning 11 expressway projects over the next 10 years

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) is planning 11 new expressway projects in the Bangkok metropolitan area and in the provinces over the next 10 years, with the earliest project expected to open for public use as soon as 2025.

The 11 projects include the construction of new expressways, as well as expansion of the existing infrastructure over a combined distance of more than 200 kilometers with a budget of 400 billion baht, EXAT Gov. Surachet Laophulsuk said on Friday. Continued …

‘Gold card’ pharmacy scheme helps patients avoid hospital

The Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI) is satisfied with the first-year implementation of the Extra Plus project, which allows members of the gold card universal healthcare scheme to receive medicine at pharmacies near their home for free.

Dr. Supakit Sirilak, director of HSRI, said the idea was based on an attempt to bring the public healthcare system closer to people. Continued …

Rooftop solar panels planned for petrol stations

Oam Suk Social Enterprise, a subsidiary of Bangchak Group, has extended its support to a network of cooperative service stations, enabling them to install rooftop solar panel systems for cost-saving purposes, while facilitating the registration of acquired carbon credits with the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO) through the T-VER program. Continued …

Norwegian Motorcyclist Drives into Dangling Cable

A 60-year-old Norwegian national was injured when he accidentally drove his motorbike into a communication wire that was dangling across the road in the district of Sattahip yesterday.

The incident occurred in front of Khun Suk Village, Bang Saray subdistrict, Sattahip district, Chonburi province. Upon receiving a report of the mishap, the Sawang Rojanatham Foundation promptly dispatched a rescue team to the scene. Continued …

Fragile, weak economy sees central bank holding interest rates, reducing 2023 growth to 2.4%

Foreign tourism is falling, signaling a precarious future. Manufacturing is slumping and the services sector has stumbled. Analysts warn of challenges ahead, while the government talks of intervention, the Bank of Thailand emphasizes stability.

The Bank of Thailand, this week, held Thai borrowing rates at 2.5%, with indications that it may hold the rate throughout 2024 until 2025, as it reported a pickup in GDP growth in the final quarter of the year even though the economy remains fragile with reduced manufacturing output and falling foreign tourism numbers, which have led the bank to downgrade the 2023 projected growth level to 2.4%. Continued …

Private sector urged to embrace circular economy

The private sector is being encouraged to adopt circular economy principles for business operations to reduce costs, increase efficiency and generate income from innovative business models.

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, said the circular economy concept was introduced in response to the ongoing development of technology and rapidly changing consumer demands that affect the economy, society and the environment. Continued …

Over 22,000 debtors register for government help on first day of registration

More than 22,000 people registered for government debt relief on the first day of registration on Friday, Interior Ministry spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul said.

The registration is part of the government’s efforts to tackle the issue of illegal lending at hefty interest rates. Many debtors who had failed to repay their debts were reportedly threatened or assaulted by loan sharks. Continued …

Japanese investors eye rail line

Japanese investors have expressed interest in investing in Red Line electric train extension projects, said Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit.

Yesterday, Nashida Kazuya, the Japanese ambassador to Thailand, met Suriya at the ministry to discuss how Thailand and Japan could collaborate in the development of transportation. Continued …

Civic groups seek elderly pensions boost with legislation

Civil groups are urging lawmakers to speed up passing the Elderly and National Pension Act.

The Thailand Consumer Council (TCC) recently backed the We Fair Network in submitting a petition signed by 10,000 people demanding the bill to be vetted in parliament. Continued …

Promotions set to drive EV sales

Battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales in Thailand are expected to reach 70,000 units this year thanks to the launch of new models and marketing campaigns, especially during November and December, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The 12-day Bangkok International Motor Show, which started on Nov. 30, should help increase BEV sales in the last month of the year, according to the federation. Continued …

National parks drop e-ticketing system

The National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department (DNP) has pulled the plug on e-ticketing for six of Thailand‘s prized national parks, sparking outrage and concerns as the tourist high season kicks off.

The decision to suspend e-ticketing for tourists visiting six national parks in Thailand has triggered a storm of criticism, with many deeming it untimely and poorly planned. As December marks the beginning of the tourism high season, both locals and international visitors are left in the lurch, struggling to navigate their trips without the once-convenient e-ticketing system. Continued …

Opening hours extension ‘will boost economy’

The private sector contends that extending night venue opening hours will attract more foreign tourists to Thailand, while Pattaya expects a 30%–40% increase in tourism revenue.

Longer opening hours will start on Dec. 15 in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chon Buri, and Phuket as planned, and outlets will be able to sell alcohol until 4am in specially designated zones. Continued …

Craving American food? Bangkok has a fair for that

Sizzling beef steaks, salty rich cheese, crunchy Washington apples, lentil health snacks, and sweet and crispy funnel cakes await Bangkokians this weekend as the EmQuartier on Sukhumvit plays host to TastyUSA Day 2023.

The fair, which began on Thursday and continues through Sunday, is now its second edition and offers all comers the chance to feast on American signature foods and beverages. Continued …

Crowds of tourists go sunflower bathing as Lopburi bursts into bloom

Tourists are flocking to Lopburi, as the province 150 kilometers north of Bangkok unveils its famed annual sunflower festival.

Hundreds of selfie-snapping visitors bathed in the yellow glow of 25 rai (4 hectares) of sunflowers at Maharach Ranch in Pattana Nikhom district on Friday. They also took advantage of the cool December weather to stroll through the vast tapestry of golden flowers. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, hua hin, marijuana, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, solar, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation, wildlife tourism

Friday’s news-Nov 10

1 Comment

Today’s news: Public transport operators ready to welcome tourists/Kiteboarder Benyapa ‘Fawn’ Jantawan/PM summarizes achievements/Cyberattacks plague Thailand/Earthquake Shakes Mae Hong Son Province/Miss Universe files for bankruptcy/Thais slain in Israel return home/Beat fridge odors with toilet paper/Ranger killed by landmine/International Cannabis Reform in 2024/Economy: Digital Wallet Not For Services/Details of digital wallet scheme/Consumer confidence soars/Toyota Pushes Thailand To Become ASEAN EV Hub/Canadian Solar to Open Plant in Thailand/Shopping Center Embraces Rooftop Solar/Instagram sees itself as a necessity/Tourism: Thai travelers choose affordability/Phuket pushes for convention hall/Sex Tourism in Thailand/Thailand Experience: Explore Pranburi’s Fort Thanarat/Five places to (ethically) volunteer with animals/Three authentic Thai recipes/Best street food in Bangkok/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin public transport operators ready to welcome tourists during high season

Hua Hin’s transport operators are gearing up to offer top-notch services to tourists in the upcoming high season. Following a meeting on Thursday, local authorities and transport providers met to discuss operational strategies.

The meeting, hosted at the Hua Hin Grand Hotel and Plaza, was chaired by the district chief of Hua Hin, Plakrit Puangwalaysin. It brought together key players from both government and private sectors, including Ajchara Arunrat, a transportation expert from the Prachuap Khiri Khan Transport Office, and Malathira Seemek, head of the Tourist Assistance Center of Prachuap Khiri Khan (TAC). Continued …

From Hua Hin Beach to the Olympics: Kiteboarder Benyapa ‘Fawn’ Jantawan

An athlete based in Hua Hin recently won a silver medal at the Asian Games competition in Hangzhou, China.

Having begun her kiteboarding journey 15 years ago at SurfSpot in Hua Hin, Benyapa Jantawan, nicknamed “Fawn,” triumphed at the Games despite a challenging time both on and off the water. Continued …

PM’s summarizes achievements in first 60 days in office

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin hosted a special TV program yesterday to announce the government’s initiatives over the past 60 days.

During the “Chance of Possibility: From Policy to Action within 60 Days” program, the PM highlighted urgent measures implemented during this period, such as reducing expenses, especially electricity rates, first from 4.45 baht to 4.10 baht and then to 3.99 baht. This reduction aimed to alleviate the financial burden on the public. Continued …

Cyberattacks plague Thailand: Over 10 annual incidents cause significant losses

A recent survey reveals that more than half of Thai organizations have experienced over 10 cyberattack incidents in the past year, leading to significant financial losses. The report, released by U.S.-based cloud connectivity firm Cloudflare, highlights the urgent need for Thai businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity infrastructure.

According to a data breach report commissioned by IBM, the global average cost of a breach this year reached an all-time high of US$4.45 million. Continued …

Earthquake Shakes Mae Hong Son Province

An earthquake with a magnitude of 4.7 at a depth of 2 kilometers struck the district of Pai in Mae Hong Son province, causing tremors felt in four provinces. As of now, there are no reports of damage.

The earthquake is believed to have resulted from the movement of the Wiang Hang fault line. The tremors were felt in four provinces, namely Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, and Lampang. – TNA-MCOT

New Thai owner of Miss Universe files for bankruptcy

JKN Global Group Plc (JKN), which acquired the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) last year, filed for bankruptcy on Wednesday due to a liquidity crunch.

JKN informed the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) that its board of directors resolved on Tuesday to file for bankruptcy with the Central Bankruptcy Court to seek protection from creditors. Continued …

Final 8 bodies of 34 Thais slain in Israel return home

The last eight bodies of Thai workers killed in the Hamas attack returned from Israel on Thursday.

The bodies were flown on an El Al flight that left Israel at 3.30pm local time and landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 12.15pm. Continued …

Beat smelly fridge odors with toilet paper

A new trend is sweeping social media, with many people placing toilet paper in their refrigerators. This strange behavior has puzzled many, leading to questions about the potential benefits of such an act. The answer, surprisingly, lies in combating unpleasant odours and excess moisture.

Excessive moisture in a fridge often results in the growth of mold and undesirable smells. Most households occasionally grapple with foul fridge odors that tend to permeate beyond the fridge. Continued …

Ranger killed by landmine, 2 injured in Narathiwat

A ranger was killed and two others slightly injured in a landmine explosion in Rangae district on Thursday afternoon, police reported.

The incident occurred at about 1.05pm while a team of rangers from Ranger Company 4503 were patrolling in a forest near Hulu Pare, the Moo 1 village in tambon Tanyongmat. One of the team members stepped on a landmine, triggering an explosion. Continued …

Top Five Countries to Watch for International Cannabis Reform in 2024

While the cannabis industry in the United States awaits a marijuana scheduling decision from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), many countries around the world continue to move forward with liberalizing their cannabis policies as a superior method of promoting the health and welfare of their citizens.

Thailand

In June of 2022, Thailand surprised the world when it removed the marijuana plant from the country’s list of controlled substances and decriminalized consumable marijuana products (does not include flower) containing no more than 0.2% THC. Continued …

10,000-Baht Digital Wallet Not For Purchase Of Services

People will not likely be allowed to use the Pheu Thai-led government’s digital wallet to buy services anywhere, a government official said yesterday.

The eligible recipients will only be allowed to use their 10,000-baht digital wallet to buy goods but not any services under the populist handout campaign, according to the official who only spoke on condition of anonymity. Continued …

Government to reveal details of contested 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme

The Thai government is set to disclose the specifics of its contentious 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme distribution today. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, in response to critics who argue the initiative could inflict more economic damage than benefit, will conduct a news conference at 2pm today to elucidate all aspects of the policy.

The Thai prime minister has also indicated that other coalition partners do not share the concerns raised over the Pheu Thai Party’s digital wallet scheme. When queried about potential positive announcements at the press conference, he replied, “I will explain everything all by myself.” Continued … 

Consumer confidence in Thailand soars to 44 month high

Last month witnessed a surge in consumer confidence for the third consecutive month, reaching its highest point in 44 months, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

Factors contributing to this uplift include the government’s initiatives to curb living costs, a boost in foreign arrivals, and a revival in exports. The UTCC reported that the consumer confidence index rose to 60.2 in October, marking an increase from 58.7 in September, 56.9 in August, and 55.6 in July. Continued …

Toyota Pushes Thailand To Become The ASEAN EV Hub

Top managers such as Masahiko Maeda, chief executive officer of Toyota Motor’s Asian subsidiaries, and Kalin Sarasin, chairman of Toyota Motor Thailand, discussed investment opportunities with Srettha Thavisin, prime minister and Finance minister at the Government House on Thursday.

Srettha mentioned that the Thai government recognizes the importance of the Japanese automotive industry in the country and is seeking cooperation in future developments. Continued …

Canadian Solar to Open Plant in Thailand After US Tariff Ruling

Canadian Solar Inc. is planning to open a manufacturing plant in Thailand after U.S. regulators concluded the company was evading import tariffs on Chinese components.

The facility is expected to begin production in March and will eventually be able to make as much as 5 gigawatts a year of wafers for solar cells, according to a statement Thursday. – bloomberglaw.com

Shopping Center In Thailand Embraces Rooftop Solar Revolution

In a feat of environmental stewardship, Megabangna Shopping Center, sprawling over 400 rai, has invested a substantial 1 billion baht in embracing clean solar energy.

This colossal shopping center is making significant strides to not only reduce its carbon footprint but also create a more sustainable and eco-friendly environment for its patrons. Continued …

Instagram sees itself as a necessity for businesses to grow

Instagram is banking on its vibrant user network to push creativity, build communities, and drive growth for businesses and creators, Chawadee Wongphyat, director of Meta Business Group for Mid-Market, Southeast Asia, said.

Speaking on “Instagram Day Thailand”, the first celebration of its presence in the country, on Thursday, she said that online connections had become an everyday occurrence. As a result, brands and businesses require new ways to connect with and engage their audiences. Continued …

Thai travelers choose affordability amid economic instability

In the wake of an unpredictable global economy, travelers are becoming increasingly cost-conscious. A recent survey by online travel agency Booking.com revealed that the majority of Thai citizens are apprehensive about the escalating cost of living and are thus curtailing their expenditure on travel, opting for budget travel instead.

Michelle Gao, the regional manager for the Mekong region at Booking.com, suggested that this trend of thrifty travel expenditure is likely to persist due to the ongoing influence of economic instability, inflation, and global conflicts on consumer confidence. Continued …

Phuket pushes for free port, convention hall

Phuket tourism operators are pushing for an integrated plan to establish the province as an exhibition hub by dusting off a long-delayed project for an international convention center and making the island a free port city.

The plan should be accelerated before new environmental laws take effect, which would alter project design, said the operators. Continued …

A Shady Side of Paradise – Sex Tourism in Thailand

Since the coronavirus is no longer an obstacle to travel, hundreds of thousands of men from all over the world are again flocking to Thailand in search of women and sex.

Go-go bars, seedy massage parlors and plenty of open-air beer stalls with scantily clad young women: All this is part of the draw for sex tourists of all ages, here in the coastal metropolis of Pattaya on Thailand’s west coast. After a pandemic pause, sex tourism is returning to what passes for normal here. Continued …

Explore the unexpected at Pranburi’s Fort Thanarat

A military base is perhaps not the first place that comes to mind when thinking about tourist destinations in and around Hua Hin. But at the Fort Thanarat army camp, near Hua Hin, there’s loads to see and do, and it’s open to the public.

Located in Pranburi along Phetkasem Road, the expansive Thanarat Military Camp covers a vast territory spanning over 730,000 rai. Continued …

Five places to (ethically) volunteer with animals around the world

Getting up close and personal with a wild animal can be a thrilling and, sometimes, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Imagine bathing an elephant in northern Thailand, using buckets to splash mud over the giant mammal’s rough skin. Or what about feeding indigenous Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos?

For wildlife lovers worldwide, these experiences can be highly sought after. And with more than 1,500 animal sanctuaries around the world, it can be challenging to choose which organization to volunteer with. But there’s a catch: not all animal sanctuaries are ethical. Continued …

Three authentic Thai recipes to try at home

In northern Thailand’s mountainous Khao Kho region, Saiphin Moore, the vivacious co-founder of London’s ubiquitous restaurant chain Rosa’s Thai, grew up cooking and eating some of her country’s most famous dishes.

From the seriously spicy som tam to the famously fiery pad kra prow, these recipes pack a punch – which also makes them the perfect winter warmer. Continued …

Where to find the best street food in Bangkok

Exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok, one cannot help but be enticed by the aromatic symphony emanating from the myriad of street food hawkers. There’s something undeniably thrilling about the city’s streets that beckon food lovers to indulge in its rich culinary tapestry.

Here’s a curated list of some local favorites where the food not only tantalizes your taste buds but also tells a story of tradition, culture, and passion. Continued …

The Great Wall Of India

The 2nd-longest continuous wall on the planet, surrounds the fort of Kumbhalgarh that contains 360 Temples. Stretches over a distance of 38km, 15m wide which is enough for 8 horses to walk abreast. Video 

Biden, Xi Set To Steal APEC Spotlight With Talks To Steady Ties

U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to hold summit talks in San Francisco next week as they seek to stabilize tense ties by meeting in-person for just the second time in nearly three years, but little bonhomie and no grand bargains appear in the offing. Continued …

China’s animal lovers fight illegal cat meat trade

When Han Jiali’s beloved cat Dabai was taken from her Shanghai home last year, she embarked on a hunt for her pet that took her deep into the bowels of China’s underground feline meat trade. Continued … 

Asia-Pacific sees the world’s highest real salary increases in 2023

According to the latest Salary Trends Report by ECA International (ECA), real wages in APAC, which are equal to nominal wage growth minus the rate of inflation, once again outperformed the rest of the world in 2023. Continued …

South Korean factory worker fatally injured by robot

Tragedy struck in South Korea as a robot misidentified a factory worker for a box of vegetables, causing fatal injuries. The incident involved a 40-year-old man who was inspecting the sensors of a machine at an agricultural distribution center in South Korea’s Gyeongsang Province. Continued …

US surgeons perform world’s first whole eye transplant

A team of surgeons in New York has performed the world’s first transplant of an entire eye in a procedure widely hailed as a medical breakthrough, although it isn’t yet known whether the man will ever see through the donated eye. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Oct 21

Today’s news: Baby Deer Found Living Among Street Dogs/Rainfall to hit 43 provinces/Bangkok PM2.5 soars/Sugar-sweetened beverages risk ADHD/Murder leads to a national crackdown/Thailand-Russia relations remain strong/Thai hostages safe in Gaza/Repatriation of Thais from Israel/Thailand’s EV initiative/Solar projects to supply grid/ASEAN’s gaming hub/Thai airlines weigh passengers/Visa-Free Entry For Both Thais And Chinese/Travel demand steady/Chiang Mai Airport 24-hour service/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Baby Deer Found Living Among Street Dogs Rescued by WFFT

When locals in a village in Thailand spotted a baby animal running around and barking near packs of street dogs, they immediately realized something was wrong. Despite the baby’s dog-like cries, he definitely wasn’t a dog — he was a muntjac deer who had wandered away from a nearby forest and was now all alone.

As soon as the villagers realized what was happening, they contacted Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) for help. The baby deer, later named Cha Lao, was only a few days old and clearly needed help. He was being chased by street dogs and would bark to try and keep them away. Continued …

Heavy rainfall to hit 43 Thai provinces

Today, Thailand’s Meteorological Department warned 43 provinces of continuous heavy rainfall, affecting 70% of the area. Bangkok is particularly hit, with strong winds, and the risk of flash floods is high.

The Meteorological Department’s 24-hour weather forecast indicates a high-pressure system or a mass of cold air from China is spreading and covering northern Thailand. Continued …

Bangkok returns to top 10 list of world’s most polluted cities as PM2.5 soars

Bangkok was listed among the world’s top 10 most polluted cities on Friday as levels of harmful PM2.5 dust soared to 48 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3). IQAir, a website that collects air quality data worldwide, ranked the Thai capital 10th in its global pollution list as of 7am on Friday.

While PM2.5 levels remain at safe levels in other parts of the country, they have risen beyond the safety threshold of 37.5μg/m3 in most areas of Bangkok, the Pollution Control Department (PCD) reported. Continued …

Sugar-sweetened beverages pose a potential risk of ADHD

In a recent study published in Nutrients, researchers investigated whether the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) was associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms among medical students in Thailand.

ADHD, a highly prevalent psychiatric disorder, can significantly impact their academic performance, work performance, and daily life. The condition may continue in adulthood or develop as a late-onset type among young adults despite not meeting ADHD diagnostic criteria in childhood. Continued …

Murder leads to a national crackdown on all illegal activity and corruption

The murder of Highway Patrol officer Police Lt. Col. Siwakorn Saibua on Sept. 6 has led to a massive investigation into corruption within government project bidding and a Chinese Communist Party-style crackdown on all kinds of illegality in the kingdom, from procuring prostitutes to paying bribes to officials for ignoring red tape.

A criminal case is also being built against Praween Chankhlai, the primary suspect behind the killing, with two of the most senior Royal Thai Police officers saying that he will undoubtedly face the death penalty. Continued …

Thailand-Russia relations remain strong, but at what cost?

Despite the West’s best efforts to isolate Russia on the international stage following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Moscow still enjoys warm relations with countries in Asia — Thailand being among them.

This past week, at the Belt and Road summit in Beijing, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin hailed Thailand and Russia’s “long-standing close relationship” after meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Continued …

Thai hostages safe in Gaza, release hinged on Israeli military ceasefire

Seyed Reza Nobakhti, the Iranian ambassador to Thailand, has confirmed that the Thai hostages currently held in Palestinian territories remain safe. He mentioned that the hostages, along with others, will only be released once the Israeli military halts its attack on the Gaza Strip.

The Palestinian militant group, Hamas, had captured about 200 hostages, including 19 Thai workers, during an unexpected attack on Israel on Oct. 7. Continued … 

Repatriation of Thais from Israel to be accelerated from Monday

Thailand has decided to speed up the repatriation of its citizens in Israel to 800 per day, by increasing the number of flights to three a day from Monday, according to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Two flights will be direct and the third via Dubai, which will be the transit point for Thais flown out of Tel Aviv to board charter flights arriving from Thailand. Continued …

Thailand’s EV initiative: Driving toward a greener future

The Thai government has embarked on an ambitious plan to replace aging government vehicles with electric vehicles (EVs), in line with its carbon neutrality goal set for 2050. The Thai EV initiative move was prompted by a notification issued by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, encouraging the use of EVs within the government sector.

Srettha’s order, issued via the Secretariat of the Cabinet, has directed the Finance and Energy Ministries to collaborate with the Budget Bureau, the Office of the Council of State, and other relevant sectors to facilitate the procurement process for EVs. The order is primarily aimed at replacing older vehicles nearing the end of their lifespan. Continued …

Thai solar projects to supply grid

Absolute Clean Energy (ACE), a prominent biomass power developer and operator based in Bangkok, is set to see a significant increase in revenue following the selection of its 18 solar power generation ventures to feed the national grid. The projects are being executed under the umbrella of ACE’s 14 entirely owned subsidiary companies.

ACE, in a recent announcement by its Director and Chief Financial Officer Tanavijit Ankapipatchai, has been granted power purchase agreements (PPAs) by the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) for 15 projects. These projects, collectively capable of producing 92.7 megawatts of electricity, are expected to begin commercial operations between 2024 and 2025. Continued …

Thailand set to become ASEAN’s gaming hub

With its burgeoning gaming sector, Thailand is poised to become the gaming hub of the ASEAN region, according to organizers at the Thailand Game Show 2023.

The nation’s gaming industry, valued at 30 billion baht (US$822 million), is leading in Southeast Asia and ranks 20th globally. In addition to boasting impressive user numbers and hosting gaming competitions, Thailand is also nurturing game developers, which aligns with the government’s national soft power strategy. Continued …

Thai airlines weigh in on passenger pounds

Several airlines have introduced weight checks for passengers and their luggage before boarding to calculate standard and average passenger weight. This passenger weigh-in measure, initiated today, allows airlines to distribute weight more effectively on international flights, thus reducing fuel usage.

During the week of Oct. 16 to 20, at Don Mueang Airport, some flights from various airlines requested volunteer passengers to weigh themselves and their luggage to gather average weight data. Continued …

Srettha Proposes Visa-Free Entry For Both Thais And Chinese

The Thai government website said yesterday that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had proposed to China during his visit there this week that negotiations be held on visa exemption for citizens of both countries.

Currently, Chinese passport holders may enter Thailand without the necessity of applying for a visa, with this running from Sept. 25, 2023 to Feb. 29, 2024. The temporary visa waiver scheme also applies to Kazakhstan. Continued … 

Travel demand steady as costs rise

With the holiday season approaching, travel packages for both domestic and outbound trips remain steady amid high living costs and economic pressure.

Chaiyapruk Thongkam, president of the Association of Domestic Travel, said people are still keen to travel domestically, mainly the budget and middle-class segments. Continued …

Chiang Mai Airport launches 24-hour service in November

Chiang Mai Airport will extend its service hours to 24 hours. The decision was announced by Keerati Kitmanawat, CEO of Thai Airports, and Nirut Pongsitthithaworn, governor of Chiang Mai Province, together with local provincial officials on Oct. 18.

Video 

The expansion of service hours will begin on Nov. 1 and is in line with the government’s policy to promote tourism and boost economic recovery. However, care will be taken to minimize the impact on surrounding communities. Continued …

Financial Stability in an Uncertain World

October is the month for the annual meetings of the World Bank/IMF, held this year in Marrakesh in Morocco. It is also the time when key reports on the global economic and financial health are published. Continued …

Malaysia has a full-blown sugar-fueled diabetes crisis

Diabetes is no longer a disease of the elderly, as even teenagers are being afflicted with it. Consultant endocrinologist Dr. Malathi Karupiah said a survey conducted by the National Health Institute indicated that one in every five Malaysians was diabetic. Continued …

Lao economy projected to grow at 4 % despite global challenges

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has maintained the economic growth forecast for Laos at 4% next year, but inflation remains a key challenge. The projected growth is driven by exports and tourism, with the Laos-China railway boosting the regional economy and improving accessibility so that more foreign visitors can come to Laos. Continued …

China may have more than 1,000 operational nuclear warheads by 2030

China is estimated to have more than 500 operational nuclear warheads as of May, and the figure may swell to over 1,000 by 2030, according to an annual Pentagon report released Thursday. Continued …

UK luxury carmaker Rolls-Royce to manufacture only EV vehicles by 2030

British luxury automobile manufacturer Rolls-Royce plans to manufacture all-electric automobiles in the high-end electric car segment by 2030. The company revealed its goal after launching one of the world’s first luxury EV cars. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

November Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flights reduced to two per week

Thai Air Asia will reduce direct flights from four to twice weekly between Chiang Mai, the gateway city to north Thailand and the beach resort town of Hua Hin on the Gulf of Thailand.

From Chiang Mai, the new schedule switches to two weekly flights (Friday and Sunday), starting Oct. 30. The one-way is around USD78.40 (THB2,846), including fees and tax. Continued …

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
climate change, hua hin, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Sept 30

Today’s news: 3 Great Places To Live In/Wet weekend for most of Thailand/Tak’s rising waters put dams at risk/Rainmaking efforts planned/Plans to raise the retirement age/Solar energy access for all/100% renewable energy by 2030/EV sales shatter forecasts/Top EV destination in SE Asia/GWM to make EV models locally/PM Opens SAT-1/Thailand Packing List/Focus on popular tourist destinations/Simple complexity of Phat Gra-phrao/The Best Time To Visit Thailand/Thailand’s Most Famous Temples/Yala’s sizzling vegetarian fest/Aunties Lead Fishing Communities/

Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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3 Great Places Across The World To Live In Your 60s, including Hua Hin

Where we live shapes most every aspect of our lives. Many of us simply grew up where we were planted. Home was where your parents made it, and likely their parents before them. But as travel options expanded and opportunity-rich destinations beckoned, many young people flocked to cities in search of their own fortunes.

High-paying jobs, new social connections, and exciting entertainment options lure 20- and 30-somethings away from small towns and villages. But over time, priorities naturally shift. Continued …

Weatherman forecasts a very wet weekend for most of Thailand

Scattered heavy to very heavy rain is expected in the north, northeast, central including Bangkok, the east and the south of Thailand today, the Thai Meteorological Department said.

The rainfall has been put down to the monsoon trough lying across the lower north, upper central and northeast areas, as well as the weakening southwest monsoon prevailing across the Andaman Sea, the central, east and south, as well as the Gulf. Continued …

Tak’s rising waters put dams at risk, residents urged to seek high ground

Severe rainfall in Tak province caused a mass influx of water into reservoirs, exceeding their storage capacity and raising concerns over potential dam breaches. The deputy governor has ordered immediate action to prevent further erosion and expansion due to Tak flooding, urging residents to quickly move their belongings to higher ground.

Deputy Gov. Veeraphan Dee-on, along with Sompong Fungtweevong, the district chief officer of Mueang Tak, were dispatched to inspect and command the situation following a report from Wanchai Choeichu, the subdistrict headman of Pong Daeng. Continued …

Rainmaking efforts planned to counter looming El Nino

Deputy Agricultural Minister Chaiya Promma has revealed details of a new royal rainmaking operation aimed at topping up water in dams and reservoirs.

The plan is being made in preparation for the effects of the El Nino weather phenomenon, which is expected to intensify in November. Continued …

Ministry of Labor plans to raise the retirement age

The new Thai government is preparing to raise the retirement age in response to the country’s declining workforce, which is gradually becoming the dominant factor in the economy’s inability to grow at the same speed as other Southeast Asian economies.

The country’s social security system needs to be reformed to cope with increased demand to pay for pensions, as more workers are opting for early retirement rather than continuing to work in the employment market. Many may eventually drift back into the country’s informal economy, which accounts for 50% of GDP. Continued …

Seacon places its belief in green solar energy access for all

The success of the solar roof model project in Bangkok’s Seacon Square Srinakarin shopping mall, under the initiation of Seacon Development Co., is likely to become a significant turning point for Thailand’s green society road map, showcasing a seamless combination of state-of-the-art technology and a commitment to make the world healthier and more sustainable.

Green energy is no longer a high-cost investment with minimal benefits. Instead, it is now a worthwhile investment for companies that is not only good for the environment, but also creates substantial savings in the long run due to greatly reduced electricity bills and associated costs. Continued …

Real estate developer sets sight to reach 100% renewable energy by 2030

Siam Piwat Group, one of Thailand’s leading real estate and retail developers, the owner and operator of global destinations including Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, aims to use 100% renewable energy at all properties under its management by 2030 in an attempt to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The move is part of its efforts to solidify its leadership in sustainable world-class destination development and become Thailand’s first retail property developer to collaborate with the world’s premier brands and organizations on sustainability in pursuit of the United Nations’ sustainability goals. It plans to sign a MOU with world-class brands on sustainability by early 2024. Continued …

Thailand EV sales shatter forecasts

The Department of Land Transport’s electric vehicle (EV) sales forecast for Thailand is substantially higher in light of a much better than expected first-half performance, with EV sales totaling 49,319, exceeding the original full-year outlook.

Sales are now forecast to increase by 151% to reach 80,700 units, compared with a previous prediction of 20.7% growth. Continued …

‘Thailand top destination in SE Asia in the EV and battery space’

As electric vehicles showed high potential for growth in the Southeast Asia region, Pan Asia Metals (PAN), a specialty metals explorer and developer in Southeast Asia, is rolling out its blueprint to be a part of this growth.

It seeks to strengthen the region’s EV industry, including making it more sustainable and independent. Continued …

China’s GWM to make 8 EV models locally

Chinese automaker Great Wall Motor (GWM) plans to start making eight electric vehicle (EV) models at its factory in Rayong in the first quarter of next year to serve soaring EV demand, which is expected to drive total EV sales in Thailand to 100,000 cars in 2024.

The first model to be manufactured locally is the compact Ora Good Cat, said Narong Sritalayon, managing director of Great Wall Motor (Thailand). Continued …

PM Opens SAT-1, Praises Well-Planned Suvarnabhumi Infrastructure

Srettha Thavisin, the prime minister and minister of finance, presided over the soft launch of Satellite 1 (SAT-1) yesterday. He praised the previous government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra for the well-planned infrastructure, including the terminal, which has facilitated future expansions and enabled faster connectivity to SAT-1.

“The Thaksin Shinawatra government laid the foundation, and at that time the construction of the terminal was cost-effective. It had a far-reaching vision that has now resulted in significant budget savings. It is now in excellent condition and well suited for the time when we are opening the country to tourists and boosting the economy through tourism. AOT has done an excellent job,” said the prime minister. Continued …

The Ultimate Thailand Packing List

Thailand lures every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking the luxury of Bangkok’s high-rise hotels or the lush white sand beaches of Koh Samui. Wherever you’re heading, you’ll want to pack light, as you’ll likely want to move around the country — which stretches over 1,000 miles from north to south, and spans hundreds of islands — and you won’t want your luggage to weigh you down.

“In Thailand, visitors need only worry about a wet or dry season. Either way, it will be hot and most likely, humid,” says Rosemarie Domdom, the director of sales and marketing at Rosewood Bangkok. Prioritizing pieces that are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying will help to keep you feeling fresh throughout your trip, while accessories like an umbrella and a sun hat will come in handy throughout the year. Continued …

Thai Airways to focus on popular tourist destinations

Thai International Airways Plc. (THAI) is aiming to capture 40% of the Thai market after integrating its “Thai Smile” subsidiary. It also plans to expand its routes, particularly to popular destinations in Japan, and expects a surge in winter flights.

“We aim to be the preferred choice for a significant portion of the Thai population. Other national carriers currently serve around 40%-50% of their home country’s market. In contrast, our market share is smaller due to our initial status as a state enterprise. The shift from a state enterprise to a private entity has facilitated our expansion plans,” Chai said. Continued …

The simple complexity of Phat Gra-phrao

When you’re sitting in a Thai restaurant, scanning the extensive menu, or simply walking the streets trying to decide on what to eat and find yourself paralyzed by choice … fret not. The answer is often as simple as it is delicious: Phat Gra-phrao.

Despite its humble presentation, this stir-fry is a culinary paradox; simple to outline but notoriously difficult to perfect. Its flavors are both robust and delicate, making it a perpetual favorite among locals and those familiar with Thai cuisine. Continued …

4 Reasons Why Now Is The Best Time To Visit Thailand

Thailand is a country best known for its world-class cuisine, ornate Buddhist temples, and enchanting off-the-beaten-path attractions. Unfortunately, planning a trip to such a remote destination can be both logistically and financially challenging.

In a lucky turn of events, though, recent economic, social, and meteorological changes have made this fall the best time to visit the epic Southeast Asian country. Continued …

Explore The Timeless Beauty Of Thailand’s Most Famous Temples

Locally known as “wats”, Thailand’s temples are more than pilgrimage sites; they are architectural monuments, as well that stand as a testament to the rich and complex history of Thailand.

With over 30,000 temples sprawled across the nation, these sacred havens encompass the local culture, history and lifestyle and are a must-visit. They are not only revered by pilgrims but also admired by tourists for their artistic beauty, offering a glimpse into the Thai temple art and architecture. Continued …

Yala’s sizzling vegetarian fest: A spicy stir of cultures

The Yala Vegetarian Festival is now sizzling hot like a stir-fry wok. It kicked off with a spicy city-wide procession circling Betong in southern Thailand, and yellow flags popping up like corn in a kettle.

This cultural fusion extravaganza, blending Thai spice with Chinese nice, is attracting more tourists than a dim sum buffet. Continued …

Aunties Lead Southern Thailand’s Fishing Communities

“Men are the elephant’s front feet” is a famous Thai saying, meaning men are the leaders in a family. This has long been the dominant narrative in a rather patriarchal country, but especially in fishing communities. Traditionally, men are responsible for offshore fishing to feed family members. Women, on the other hand, oversee household activities and take care of children and family members.

But in the Chana community, a coastal village in the southern province of Songkhla, things are different. Here, women participate in offshore fishing, leading the sustainable development of the community, as well as movements that protect the ocean. Continued … 

Evergrande downfall unlikely to result in global financial crisis, says analyst

Even as embattled property developer Evergrande faces an unprecedented liquidity crisis, China’s current real estate woes are unlikely to result in a widespread global financial crisis like the one seen in 2008, one analyst told Reuters on Friday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
cha am, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, solar, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Sept 28

Today’s news: Retiring solo tips and tricks/Cha Am resort named to Hall of Fame/It’s national flag/Downpours continue/Standards to hire foreign teachers questioned/Sky Doctor Teams to Expand Nationwide/Thailand’s next top cop/Lopburi monkey invasion/‘News fees’ unacceptable/Thailand to launch its second Earth satellite/Factory output down7.5%/BoT hikes interest rate/Year-end bonuses/Call for clarification on labor laws/Prime Road looks to expand solar/Call to Regulate Weed Worries Some/Balancing cannabis use/From the Thai Cannabis Industry/China’s global travelers pull back/Visiting Pattaya For The First Time/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Retiring solo: Tips and tricks for single retirees in Thailand

Thailand has always been popular as a retirement destination, and it’s easy to see why. One of the main things that attract solo retirees to the country is its affordability. Compared to numerous Western countries, the cost of living in Thailand is considerably lower.

Of course, the cost of living mainly depends on your lifestyle. But, in general, the country allows you to stretch your retirement savings further while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle compared to countries like the UK, the U.S., and Australia. Continued …

Cha Am’s Ace of Hua Hin Resort named to tourism Hall of Fame

The 14th Thailand Tourism Awards yesterday recognized 254 Thai tourism enterprises for quality and excellence in tourism and hospitality operations, while underlining Thailand’s new direction towards high-value and sustainable tourism. The presentation ceremony was held at the Samyan Mitrtown Hall in Bangkok and held on World Tourism Day as a symbolic gesture of recognition that builds awareness for responsible and sustainable tourism.

This year, nine Thai tourism enterprises received the Hall of Fame awards: five in the attractions category – Phetchabun Intrachai Archaeology Hall (Phetchabun), Dhanabaadee Ceramic Museum (Lampang), Chae Son National Park (Lampang), Khon Kaen Zoo, and Royal Park Rajapruek (Chiang Mai); and four in the accommodation category – Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort (Krabi), Ace of Hua Hin Resort (Phetchaburi), Zira Spa Chiang Mai, and Kamalaya Spa (Surat Thani). Continued …

Thailand celebrates its national flag today

The design of Thailand’s flag was adopted on Sept. 28, 1917, and since 2016, that day has been marked as a national day.

The flag shows five horizontal stripes in the colors red, white, blue, white and red, with the central blue stripe being twice as wide as each of the other four. The red stands for the land and people, white for religion and blue for the monarchy. Continued …

Downpours continue for much of Thailand

Scattered heavy rain, torrential in some areas, is forecast for the north, the northeast, the central including the Bangkok metropolitan area, the east, and the south of Thailand today and tomorrow, the Thai Meteorological Department warned today.

These conditions are brought by the weakening active low-pressure cell over the western part of the north and the monsoon trough lying across upper Thailand, the department said. Continued …

Standards used to hire foreign teachers questioned

A TikTok clip of two young foreign women boasting they were teaching children in a “random town in Thailand” with no qualifications sparked outrage when it was shared on social media.

The clip shows two foreign women, possibly 18 years old, playfully pointing to captions that read: “You guys can’t just travel forever, when are you gonna go uni or get a job? Us in a random town in Thailand teaching kids with no qualifications.” Continued …

Sky Doctor Teams to Expand Nationwide in 100 Days

The administration is poised to expand the reach of emergency medical services with the launch of “Sky Doctor” teams across all healthcare zones in the country.

The 100-day initiative aims to provide rapid medical attention in emergency cases, especially in remote and traffic-congested areas. Continued …

Police Gen Torsak to become Thailand’s next top cop

The Police Commission, chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has selected Deputy National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol as the new head of the nation’s police force, replacing Police Gen. Damrongsak Kittipraphat, who is set to retire at the end of this month.

The selection of the new police chief was initially the last item on the meeting’s agenda, but it was moved to the top. Torsak, who retires next year, is the most junior of the deputies, being the most recent to be appointed. Continued …

Lopburi homeowners swing into action against monkey invasion

Homeowners in Lopburi province are calling for assistance from authorities as they battle an ongoing monkey invasion. The primates are wreaking havoc, causing significant damage to the properties and possessions of Lopburi residents and homeowners who are living in fear.

A user on TikTok has highlighted the severity of the issue by posting a distressing clip of monkeys vandalizing a home to the point where the occupants had to construct a metal cage and store their belongings in cupboards to keep them safe. Continued …

‘News fees’ unacceptable and clear breach of professional ethics

Thailand’s seven key media organizations have announced they are forming a committee to investigate the incident in which Thai journalists allegedly accepted money from the deputy national police chief in exchange for reporting news, saying that the action is a serious breach of professional ethics.

The statement referred to a recent interview given by deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police, Police Gen. Surachate”Big Joke” Hakparn, who said that he had paid money to journalists as a “news fee”, as well as offered other assistance because he understood that journalists have low salaries. Continued … 

Thailand to launch its second Earth satellite next week

Thailand is set to launch it second Earth observation satellite, THEOS-2, on Oct. 7 from the Guiana space center in South America, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space technology development.

The launch was announced on Wednesday at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovations by representatives of Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GITSDA), Airbus and the French embassy. Continued … 

Factory output down 7.5%, bigger than forecast

Thailand’s manufacturing production index (MPI) in August dropped 7.53% from a year earlier, the Industry Ministry said today, as exports were sluggish amid soft global demand.

The figure compared with a forecast for a 6.5% year-on-year drop for August in a Reuters poll, and followed July’s 4.43% decline. – Bangkok Post

BoT hikes interest rate to 10-year high

The Bank of Thailand on Wednesday raised its benchmark interest rate to the highest level in 10 years, as it moved pre-emptively to check inflationary pressures from the government’s proposed economic stimulus.

The central bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted unanimously to increase the one-day repurchase rate by a quarter-point to 2.50%, as predicted by 10 of 21 economists in a Bloomberg survey. The rest had expected no change. Continued …

Thai companies make it rain with year-end bonuses

At least 10 renowned Thai companies are set to distribute generous year-end bonuses for 2023. The highest bonus reported is 7.3 months’ salary plus an additional 37,000 baht.

Some of the companies declaring bonuses include IHI Turbo Thailand, Jtekt (Thailand), Siam Toyota, Siam ATT I-Shin, Trimotive, SIAM DENSO KYOSAN, IJT Thailand, TTK, TBKK, and Sumitomo Rubber Thailand, with bonus amounts ranging from 3 to 7.42 months’ salary, along with additional cash rewards. Continued …

Foreigners call for clarification on labor laws, new stimulus packages

Foreign business leaders in Thailand are urging the government for political stability and transparency as they roll out stimulus packages to boost the country’s economy. The people interviewed support the “digital wallet” scheme but emphasize the need for transparency in its implementation.

The new Srettha Thavisin government is planning to launch a 10,000-baht digital wallet stimulus for all Thais over 18 next year. Vibeke Lyssand Leirvag, Chairwoman of the Joint Foreign Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of transparency in implementing the digital wallet scheme, which aims to enhance domestic purchasing power Continued …

Thailand’s Prime Road looks to expand solar business

Growing concern over climate change is helping Prime Road Power, an operator of solar farms and provider of solar panel installation services, expand its business, with the aim to increase clean power generation capacity to 1,800 megawatts across Asia within five years, says chairman and founder Somprasong Panjalak. The company’s current capacity is 307.5MW.

Domestically, Prime Road Power and the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand formed a joint venture named Prime Industrial Energy to promote solar power development at industrial estates. Continued … 

PM’s Call to Regulate Weed Worries Some Cannabis Advocates

Thailand’s new prime minister has vowed to permit the use of cannabis for medical purposes only, a little more than year after his country became the first in Asia to decriminalize weed.

Some advocates in Thailand warn that banning the leisure use of marijuana could be chaotic and costly, while others say it could help bring order to the rapidly expanding industry. Continued …

Balancing cannabis use

The future of cannabis for medical use is again in question, with new Public Health Minister Dr. Cholnan Srikaew last week pledging to review the current cannabis policy laid by his predecessor, Anutin Charnvirakul, head of the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT).

The change comes after the rise in youth consumption of the drug for recreational purposes and the proliferation of recreational cannabis shops in big cities, some of which are located near schools. Continued …

From the Thai Cannabis Industry – A Brief Overview of Our Goings on in Southeast Asia

Ganja. Bong. Kush. Hashish. All terms we have been using in the world of cannabis for years, rarely pausing to consider what their source is, or what they can inform us of the history of the plant we are building our careers and business on.

If we spent more time these days reading history books than taking pictures of our food, we might have discovered that the source of all of these terms is the same area of the world, one which has often been more relegated to tourist status than consideration as a major anchor point and potential disruptor to the global cannabis industry. Continued …

China’s global travelers pull back amid uncertainty

More Chinese travelers are delaying outbound plans amid economic uncertainty, according to a new survey, potentially rough news for countries depending on one of the world’s biggest source of tourists.

A September survey by consultancy Oliver Wyman found that 54% of respondents – all experienced travelers who had been abroad before the pandemic shut Chinese borders – said they planned to travel in 2023, down from 62% polled in June. Continued …

Must-Do Things If Visiting Pattaya For The First Time

Pattaya, nestled along the Gulf of Thailand, is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and a wide array of attractions that cater to travelers of all types.

If you are planning your first visit to this tropical paradise, you’re in for a treat. To ensure you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled a list of must-do things to help you experience the best that Pattaya offers. Continued …

Indonesia bans e-commerce transactions on social media

Indonesia has banned e-commerce transactions on social media platforms, the trade minister said on Wednesday, in a blow to short video app TikTok, which is doubling down on Southeast Asia’s biggest economy to boost its e-commerce business. Continued …

Brazil’s banana spider aids erectile dysfunction treatment

Three decades ago, Brazilian researchers began studying a curious side effect from banana spider bites: the toxin left victims with priapism, a painful and persistent erection. Continued …

US sues Amazon for running illegal monopoly

A top antitrust regulator in the United States sued Amazon on Tuesday, accusing the online retail behemoth of running an illegal monopoly by strong-arming sellers and stifling potential rivals. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490

 

baht, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Sept 21

Today’s news: Thai baht plummets/Hua Hin’s growing wine scene/Escort websites dismantled/Intense rainfall warning/Loei’s watery woes/Father Confesses To Serial Killing/Push to tighten use of cannabis/Economy to be driven by private consumption, tourism/Strong trading relationship/PM backs Sustainable Development/Blue Flag may join ‘digital wallet’/Thai gold market glistens/Trade show increases investment/SPCG readies solar farm growth/Thai Smile Bus to add over 1,000 electric vehicles/Duck egg prices rise/AoT allots Bt140bn for Phangnga, Chaing Mai airports/Koh Rok Reopens on Oct 1/Four Varieties Of Regional Food/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thai baht plummets against the US$

The Thai baht has plummeted to its lowest level against the USD since November last year, driven by concerns of “stagflation in countries that heavily rely on energy imports. That includes Thailand.

The baht experienced its second consecutive day of declines against the USD, falling by 0.6% and reaching its lowest point since Nov.10, 2022. As of yesterday afternoon, the baht is valued at 36.2 per U.S. dollar. Experts opine that the swift depreciation was influenced by the surge in oil prices, which have risen by approximately 10% this month. Continued …

Hua Hin’s growing wine scene

For those of you living in Hua Hin a decade ago, you’ll know there were just a couple of places selling what was a fairly limited, not to mention expensive, variety of wine.

Fast forward to today and there are some really interesting things happening in Hua Hin in relation to wine. From growing and cultivating to tasting and pairing – this place is becoming a hub of all things wine. Continued …

Escort websites for foreigners dismantled

Yesterday, under the leadership of Police Lt. Gen. Phanthana Nuchcharoen, deputy commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, a joint operation led by Police Col. Pharakon Naphachoti, deputy commander of the 3rd Region Police Bureau, and other high-ranking officers successfully dismantled a criminal network operating escort websites.

The operation, known as PCT1, uncovered illegal activities related to websites such as www.absolute-angels-bangkok.com. Continued … 

Intense rainfall warning for 49 Thai provinces

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for intense rainfall, impacting 49 provinces, with 70% of these regions likely to be severely affected. Bangkok is anticipated to bear the full brunt of the storms.

Residents are cautioned against potential dangers, including flash floods and rapid forest water flow. This forecast is valid from 6.am today until 6am tomorrow. Continued …

Loei’s watery woes: Torrential rain drowns 60 homes and more

Relentless downpours over the past week have led to extensive flooding in Loei pProvince, northeastern Thailand, submerging more than 60 residences, agricultural land, government structures, and even a central sports field.

The continuous precipitation has triggered the overflow of numerous tributaries, with particular emphasis on the Loei River, the province’s primary watercourse. Continued …

Father Confesses To Serial Killing His Own Children, At least 5

The case of a father who has 10 children and is suspected of murdering half of them has shaken Thai society once more. This disturbing incident sheds light not only on the violence of parents against their children, but also on Thailand’s greater problem of violence against children.

The story came to light when a 12-year-old child broke the door of her room at an apartment in Soi Phaholyothin 48, Bang Khen District, Bangkok, and fled to ask neighbors for help, saying she and her younger sister were being attacked by her father. Continued …

Thai lawmakers plan fresh push to tighten use of cannabis

Thailand’s legislators will renew a push for an overarching law on use of cannabis for medical and research purposes, a senior lawmaker said on Wednesday, more than a year after the narcotic was legalized without proper regulations.

Last year, Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to decriminalize cannabis, but in the absence of specific measures, the government had to hastily issue rules to prevent its unchecked use, particularly among children. Continued …

Thai economy to be driven by private consumption, tourism in 2023

Stimulating private consumption is a reasonable strategy for the government to maintain economic growth amid global uncertainties, according to Tim Leelahaphan, an economist at Standard Chartered Bank Thailand. The first half of 2023 saw a 7% year-on-year increase in the country’s private consumption.

Expectations are high for private consumption and tourism to be the main drivers of economic growth in the latter half of the year. Standard Chartered Bank Thailand is currently awaiting further details of the government’s proposed 10,000 baht digital handout scheme, which requires a massive portion of the government’s budget, estimated at 560 billion baht. Continued …

US and Thailand to continue strong trading relationship

Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Wednesday that United States President Joe Biden had congratulated him on becoming the prime minister and promised that the U.S. would remain a good trading partner of Thailand. The trade partnership between the U.S. and Thailand dates back more than 160 years.

Srettha said he met Biden for a short session during the gala dinner for those attending the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78) in New York City on Tuesday. Continued …

PM backs Sustainable Development Goals at summit

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Wednesday confirmed Thailand’s commitment to realizing the sustainable development goals at the SDG Summit 2023, saying the country has issued two sets of sustainability bonds that have raised US$2.5 billion in green and social investments at the national level.

Speaking in New York, Srettha said Thailand has also launched the Thailand Green Taxonomy as a reference tool for economic activities deemed environmentally sustainable. Continued …

Blue Flag outlets may join “digital wallet” scheme

The Ministry of Commerce is considering using its extensive network of retail outlets, shops and eateries, under the “Blue Flag” (Thong Fah) program, to allow people, who may have difficulty finding shops under the digital wallet 4km radius rule, to spend the 10,000-baht benefit under the scheme.

Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has instructed officials to consider the possibility of leveraging the 144,821 Blue Flag outlets across the country, to overcome the limitation that the 10,000 baht can only be spent within a 4km radius of the recipient’s residence. Continued …

Thai gold market glistens: Prices sparkle with a 100 baht boost in a day

Gold prices in Thailand saw a significant surge as per the Gold Traders Assn. Compared to the closing price of the previous day, gold ornaments Tuesday were sold at an increased rate of 33,100 baht (US$926) per baht weight, marking an upswing of 100 baht.

For 96.5% pure gold bars, the buying price stood at 32,500 baht, while the selling price was 32,600 baht (US$912). For 96.5% pure gold ornaments, the figures were 31,911.80 baht for buying and 33,100 baht for selling. Continued …

Trade show increases investment in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB ) collaborated with the office of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) to hold the EEC Cluster Fair 2023 from Sept. 6-8 at the Nong Nooch Pattaya International Convention and Exhibition Center.

The Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Trade, the Federation of Thai Industries, and the Tourism Council of Thailand also participated in the fair. Continued …

SPCG readies solar farm growth in EEC

SPCG, a pioneer in solar farm development in Thailand, expects to start building solar farms with a combined power generation capacity of 500 megawatts in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

The construction was delayed for almost two years as the company spent time selecting suitable areas for the project and needed to wait for a new secretary-general of the EEC Office to grant a license. Continued …

Thai Smile Bus plans to add over 1,000 electric vehicles to its fleet by 2023

Thai Smile Bus, a leading public transportation company utilizing clean energy, plans to introduce an additional 1,083 electric buses (EV) to its fleet by next year, according to the company’s CEO, Kulapatsorn Wongmajarabhin.

This initiative is part of the company’s ongoing commitment over the past two years to develop environmentally friendly public transportation and reduce PM2.5 dust pollution in urban areas. Continued …

Duck egg prices rise as rain dampens Khon Kaen production

Continual rainfall in Khon Kaen has led to a decrease in duck egg production, driving the cost of duck eggs to an unprecedented high of 170 baht per tray. Salted eggs have also seen a price increase, now costing 8 to 10 baht per egg.

Reporters yesterday visited Ban Dong Pong, Moo 10, Sila subdistrict, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province, a significant area for duck egg farming. They found that due to the persistent rain, farmers had to move their ducks to higher ground to avoid the rain and floodwaters. Continued …

AoT allots Bt140 billion for Phangnga, Chaing Mai airport projects

Airports of Thailand (AoT) has set a budget of 140 billion baht for two airport construction projects, including the building of Andaman International Airport in Phangnga.

AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat said both projects – the new airport in Phangnga and a second phase renovation of Chiang Mai Airport – were the responses by the authorities to urgent policies presented by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Continued …

Koh Rok, the Queen of the Andaman Islands Reopens on Oct 1

Koh Rok in Mu Koh Lanta National Park was closed from July 1 to Sept. 30. It will reopen again on Oct. 1.

Niramit Songsaeng, the head of Mu Koh Lanta National Park in Krabi province, announced that the park will open on Oct. 1 for tourists to admire the beauty of Koh Rok, Koh Haa Islands (Tukonlima), Pile of purple and red rocks and Mai Kaew Cave. Continued …

Sample These Four Varieties Of Regional Food When In Thailand

Thai food has gained popularity around the world due to its diverse culinary styles, great taste, and distinct character. Its core lies in the art of balancing four distinct flavors: salty, sweet, sour, and spicy, with the level of spiciness varying according to the type of Thai food.

Thai cuisine varies in taste and style depending on the area or region of the country from which the dish originated. Regional ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavors define local cuisines, and shape their individual tastes and charms. Continued …

Typhoon tempest sets 71 crocs on the loose

An extensive operation in China’s Guangdong province successfully recaptured 71 escaped crocodiles, according to Chinese state media. A flood resulting from a typhoon in the city of Maoming earlier this month led to the reptiles escaping from a commercial farm. Continued …

 

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490