Category Archives: thai economy

baht, bangkok, climate change, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, solar, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news-Aug 4

  • Thai baht falls on political uncertainties, Asian FX declines/
  • Heavy rain forecast for 43 provinces/
  • EGAT against further power bill cut/
  • Dismembered Body Part Found At Koh Phangan Garbage Dump/
  • Corrupt police officers linked to firework warehouse explosion/
  • 8 killed and 3 injured after pickup collides with train near Bangkok/
  • Villagers in Tak Wait For a New Road and Electricity/
  • Thailand election: Vote For Prime Minister Put Off After Court Postpones Pita Hearing/Pheu Thai party hints at coalition to include former coup supporters/Opinion: Pheu Thai’s Faustian folly/
  • Economy: Thailand bids to become smart, eco-friendly logistics hub in ASEAN/Chinese investors top BOI investment applications/Global rice trade shook by El Nino, politics, and embargo in Thailand/Thailand to turn global food security crisis into opportunity/Thai oil company division launches solar panel project/Smaller hotels struggling to cope with increasing costs/
  • Tourism: Bangkok beats Paris as most-visited city in 2023/Russian Man Drowns at Phuket Beach After Allegedly Ignoring No Swimming Warnings/
  • Thailand Experience: ‘Feels unreal’: College graduate visits Thailand to care for animals/
  • International: Trump pleads not guilty to election conspiracy charges/11 women mop the lottery floor in India/
  • 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 falls on political uncertainties, Asian FX declines

The Thai baht hit a one-week low on Thursday on lingering political uncertainties after the populist Pheu Thai party took the lead in efforts to form a government, while other emerging Asian currencies fell against a firm U.S. dollar. The baht weakened 0.6% and equities in Bangkok shed 0.5%, a day after the Bank of Thailand raised its key interest rate by 25 basis points.

Southeast Asia’s second largest economy has been in political limbo since the May 14 election, and the latest twist came as the Pheu Thai party abandoned support for the reformist Move Forward party that had won most seats but twice failed to get parliament’s approval for its prime ministerial candidate. Continued …

Heavy rain forecast for 43 provinces

The southwest monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, most of the country, as well as the Gulf of Thailand, combined with a low-pressure system over the upper coast of Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin, will continue to bring heavy to very heavy rain to 43 provinces,mainly in the north, northeast and eastern regions.

This is likely to cause sudden floods and flash floods, especially in hilly and low-lying areas. Bangkok will also see downpours, with 60% of the area affected. Continued …

EGAT against further power bill cut

Debt-ridden Electricity Authority of Thailand (EGAT) cannot yield to any further requests for cheaper electricity bills in the next four-month cycle, as this would affect its future investment in the power infrastructure.

Its accumulated loss, which accrued after EGAT subsidized power bills from September 2021 to May 2023, is projected to decrease to 135 billion baht at the end of this month, according to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). Continued …

Dismembered Body Part Found At Koh Phangan Garbage Dump

In a grisly discovery at a Koh Phangan rubbish dump yesterday, a body part was found in a blue plastic bag, with police suspecting it belonged to a foreign man who had been killed and his body cut up and disposed not more than 48 hours previously.

Within the blue plastic bag was the hip of a human being dismembered from both thighs to the waist. It is presumed to belong to a foreign man by thick black body hair. Continued …

Corrupt police officers linked to firework warehouse explosion

Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police (RTP) Surachate Hakparn, acknowledged the presence of corrupt police officers within the force. He ensured to investigate the public’s concern over corruption allegations linked to the firework warehouse explosion.

Move Forward Party (MFP) MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn stepped forward to expose the corruption within the RTP that may have played a role in the firework warehouse explosion at Muno Market in the Sungai Kolok district of the southern province of Narathiwat. Continued …

8 killed and 3 injured after pickup collides with train near Bangkok

A pickup truck collided with a train in the early hours of this morning, killing eight Thai people and injuring three others near Klong Udon Chonlajon in Chachoengsao province near Bangkok.

Mueang Chachoengsao Police Station officers and a rescue team promptly rushed to the scene at approximately 3am today. They found a train, laden with containers, positioned on the railway tracks. Around 50 meters away from the train’s front, lay a completely wrecked bronze Isuzu pickup. Continued … 

Villagers in Tak Wait For a New Road and Electricity

Many places in Thailand’s rural districts still lack roads and electricity, and children have to do their homework by candlelight.

Yesterday, villagers in Tak Province gathered and demanded support from government agencies, such as the Ministry of Forestry, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Ministry of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, to expedite the approval of electricity installation and road construction in their village. They have been waiting for eight years and are facing legal obstacles. Continued …

Vote For Prime Minister Put Off After Court Postpones Pita Hearing

Soon after the Constitutional Court postponed a hearing on accepting a petition on the constitutionality of a vote denying Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat a second chance to be named prime minister from yesterday to Aug. 16, tomorrow’s scheduled House/Senate vote for prime minister also was put off.

House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha said as the Constitutional Court has postponed considering whether or not to accept the Ombudsman’s Office’s petition to rule on constitutionality of this vote, the first agenda of tomorrow’s joint meeting has been put off, with the second agenda moved up. Continued …

Pheu Thai party hints at coalition to include former coup supporters

Thailand’s next coalition government should include representatives from a diverse political spectrum to ensure public acceptance, Pheu Thai Party deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai said on Thursday.

Pheu Thai has taken up the responsibility of forming the government after the party with the most number of seats, Move Forward Party, failed in its efforts. Senior Pheu Thai figures on Wednesday announced the party’s “divorce” from Move Forward to stitch together a new coalition. Continued …

Pheu Thai’s Faustian folly

The political landscape of Thailand has always been tumultuous, but it has taken a tragic turn in the past 48 hours. The Pheu Thai Party, long touted by its supporters as politically savvy, finds itself caught in a tumultuous predicament, one of its own making.

A Faustian pact, sealed in the smoky backrooms of Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore, has led the Pheu Thai Party on a road to perdition. The strategy the Pheu Thai Party adopted was marred by poor calculations and a sense of impatience. Continued …

Thailand bids to become smart, eco-friendly logistics hub in ASEAN

In the realm of business and industry, a campaign is gaining traction in which the government is being urged to bolster the country’s standing as a prospective eco-friendly hub for logistics within the prominent Southeast East Asian alliance, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Moreover, there is a strong emphasis on preparing businesses to adapt to the dawn of smart, eco-friendly industries.

Suwit Ratanachinda, the individual at the helm of the Thai Logistics Service Provider Federation, has advocated for the impending government to adopt a firm policy stance to boost Thailand as a pivotal eco-friendly logistics center within ASEAN. He highlighted that Thailand’s geographical positioning and robust infrastructure, encompassing widespread roads and airports, create ideal connectivity to Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. Continued …

Chinese investors top BOI investment applications

Chinese investors are providing a welcome boost to the Thai economy by seeking opportunities to relocate their investments to Thailand.

The Board of Investment (BOI) reports receiving a steady influx of investment applications, particularly in the fields of electric vehicles (EV), electronics, and digital industries. Over the past six years, China has submitted more than 900 investment projects, with a value of more than 526 billion baht. Continued …

Global rice trade shook by El Nino, politics, and embargo in Thailand

In the face of mounting global food security concerns, the impact of El Niño weather patterns and international political disruptions are causing serious upheavals in the farming landscape, particularly in major global rice-producing countries.

Compounding the issue is Russia’s recent withdrawal from a vital agreement, which previously ensured the uninterrupted transport of Ukrainian grain goods through the Black Sea region. Continued …

Thailand to turn global food security crisis into opportunity

Covid-19, the Russo-Ukraine war, and climate change have brought the issue of food security into the spotlight, especially in countries where food prices are set to spike. There are currently about 200 million people who face food insecurity globally.

Chanthanon Wannakhajorn, secretary-general of the Office of Agricultural Economics (OAE), says that Thailand, a major global food producer, is ready to face the food security crisis. He is confident that Thailand produces enough food like rice, cassava, palm oil, pork, chicken, and eggs, he added. Continued …

Thai oil company division launches solar panel project

To promote clean energy usage, Global Power Synergy (GPSC), a member company of the PTT Group, recently launched a campaign to install solar panels for government agencies and non-profit organizations.

The campaign “Kon Mee Fai” (energizing people) will help reduce the energy costs of these agencies, boosting their efficiency in serving society and promoting a sustainable environment, Rosaya Teinwan, GPSC’s executive vice president of business development, said on Thursday. Continued …

Smaller hotels struggling to cope with increasing costs

Despite the upcoming lower power tariff, midscale and small hotels are still facing a surge in expenses due to high interest rates, while their rate of revenue growth lags behind those of five-star properties. Continued …

Bangkok beats Paris as most-visited city in 2023

The Thai capital has been ranked as top most-visited city in the world in 2023, according to a survey by Travelness.

According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek, caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was delighted to hear that Bangkok received the top ranking as the city with the most foreign visitors, totaling 22.78 million people, according to the travel website. Continued …

Russian Man Drowns at Phuket Beach After Allegedly Ignoring No Swimming Warnings

A Russian tourist drowned at a beach in Thalang, allegedly ignoring red flags and no swimming warnings.

The Phuket Tourist Police said they were notified of the incident on Thursday evening near dusk on Surin Beach. They arrived at the beach with red flags placed up by lifeguards, which meant no swimming was allowed along the beach. Continued …

‘Feels unreal’: College graduate visits Thailand to care for animals

How many bananas does an elephant eat in a day? Most people would have to hazard a guess when trying to answer that question, but Orangeville’s Laura DiCarlo can give a more educated answer based on real-life observations.

After completing her studies in animal care at Sheridan College in Ontario, Canada, DiCarlo spent two weeks in Thailand this past May working alongside experienced veterinarians to provide care to animals. Continued … 

Trump pleads not guilty to election conspiracy charges

Former U.S. president Donald Trump pleaded not guilty on Thursday to criminal charges that he conspired to overturn the results of the 2020 election and defraud the American people. Continued …

11 women mop the lottery floor in India

Life has taken a decidedly fortunate turn for 11 female sanitation workers in southern India, who are no longer in the shit after scooping 100 million Indian rupees (41 million baht) on a united lottery ticket. These women, who were previously struggling to make ends meet with meager daily wages of 250 Indian rupees (100 baht), can now look forward to a brighter future. 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Aug 2

  • No alcohol sales today for religious holiday/
  • Foreign ‘Mafia’ group holds gun to head of tourists in Pattaya/
  • Robbery at Hua Hin gold shop: Thief flees with necklaces worth 300,000 THB/
  • Boy, 9, missing off PKK beach/
  • Local radio station Surf FM re-brands to SURF Radio/
  • Major landslide warning for 45 provinces as Thailand braces for heavy rainfall/
  • Wondering how to keep strong and age well? Think muscle health/
  • Mega changes ahead for Thailand’s Elite visa/
  • Move Forward ready to sacrifice government position to ensure no coup makers/
  • Tragic Fireworks Warehouse Explosion Leaves Community Severely Affected/
  • Economy: Employment on the rise as Thai economy continues to recover/Thai inflation to remain relatively low in Q3/Thai govt mulls halting Central Plains rice farming amid anticipated drought/Global warming could inflict massive loss on Thai agriculture/Founder of Wind Energy Holdings awarded US$900M in compensation by UK court/
  • Tourism: Beach beating: 20 Thai transwomen assault foreigners in Pattaya/Two Indian Men Drown At Phuket Beach After Allegedly Ignoring No Swimming Warnings/Bangkok: Digital nomads’ No.1 destination/Tourism revival in Thailand risks airport slot overcrowding/Marine officials close Maya Bay for 2 months’ ‘rest’ from tourists/Full Moon Party faces Buddha Days, water shortages this month/
  • Thailand Experience: What footprints do we, as tourists, leave behind?/5 great ways retirees in Thailand spend their free time/Indulging in Meaningful Wellness experiences in Koh Samui/Surin marks Asanha Bucha with elephant parade/Things to See and Do in Northern Thailand/
  • International: Trump indicted for efforts to overturn 2020 election and block transfer of power/Food security at risk without global cooperation, authorities warn/Myanmar junta pardons ex-leader Suu Kyi for five offenses/Chinese EVs smash monthly sales records/
  • 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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No alcohol sales today for religious holiday

Foreign ‘Mafia’ group holds gun to head of tourists in Pattaya

A shocking incident took place at the Voice of Navy 5 Viewpoint in Pattaya, as a Thai witness captured a distressing video of a foreign mafia member threatening a group of Asian men at gunpoint.

The video, lasting 1.39 minutes, shows a foreign mafia man dressed in all-black attire brandishing a gun and intimidating approximately 10 foreigners, believed to be Kuwaiti nationals. The most alarming moment was when the gunman pointed his weapon directly at the head of one of the men. Continued …

Robbery at Hua Hin gold shop: Thief flees with necklaces worth 300,000 THB

A thief dressed as a FoodPanda delivery rider struck a well-known gold shop in Hua Hin on Tuesday, brazenly escaping with a haul of gold necklaces worth nearly 300,000 baht.

The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 PM when Deputy Superintendent of Police at Hua Hin Police Station Pichaya Rongleua received a report of a robbery at the Yaowarat Gold Shop on Chomsin Road. Continued …

Boy, 9, missing off PKK beach

A search used rubber boats and drones to inspect an area of approximately 3 kilometers in search of a 9-year-old boy who went missing after swimming in the sea at Suan Son Beach yesterday. There were strong winds and waves at the time.

The missing boy and his family were visiting Samut Sakhon Province. The rescue operation involved hundreds of officials who combed an 800-meter stretch along the coastline. Specialized rescue divers searched an additional 1-kilometer distance into the sea.

Local radio station Surf FM re-brands to SURF Radio

The radio station started life 20 years ago by Pongsawatch Charoennithithat with a vision to provide English radio for expat residents and visitors to the area.

While the radio station initially experienced some success, it soon faced challenges due to inadequate signal, and low advertising sales. Continued … 

Major landslide warning for 45 provinces as Thailand braces for heavy rainfall

Continual rainfall appears to be holding Thailand under its reign. The Thai Meteorology Department (TMD) warned of potential landslides in 45 provinces, including Bangkok.

The precipitation accumulation could lead to sudden flooding and running forest water in the northern, eastern, and western southern provinces. Residents in these locations are advised to be cautious, especially around mountainous areas, or near river paths. Continued … 

Wondering how to keep strong and age well? Think muscle health

Sometimes it’s not until later in life that a person starts to think about aging well.Healthy aging can mean many things, from keeping your memory intact to maintaining an active social life to staying in peak physical condition.

One component of aging well is supporting your muscle health. Muscle loss begins around age 40 and increases year after year, accelerating at around age 70. Continued …

Mega changes ahead for Thailand’s Elite visa

The Thai Elite visa, which offers multiple-entry stays between five and 20 years, will totally replace its current packages on Oct. 1, 2023. Founded by then prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra in 2003, Thailand Privilege Card Co. is wholly owned by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. But a new senior management team at Elite has decided to introduce unprecedented changes.

All new applications for Elite must be made by Sept. 15 under the existing application rules: after that it will be too late. Current holders of the popular Elite Easy Access – a five-year visa available for a cash payment of 600,000 baht – have until Aug. 15 to transfer to a longer Elite visa, usually for 20 years: after that it will be too late. Continued …

Move Forward ready to sacrifice government position to ensure no coupmakers

The Move Forward is ready to move to the opposition to ensure that neither the Palang Pracharath Party or the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party are in the next government coalition, a MFP MP said today.

Despite taking the lead in forming the government, the Pheu Thai Party has experienced difficulties due to Move Forward Party’s electoral promise to amend the lese-majeste laws and the refusal of the senate and more conservative parties to side with them while MFP was in the coalition. Continued …

Tragic Fireworks Warehouse Explosion Leaves Community Severely Affected

The death toll from the massive explosion at a fireworks and firecracker warehouse in the southern Thai province of Narathiwat has risen to 12, with more than 120 people injured. About 100 residential buildings in the area were also damaged.

Of the injured, 10 people are still being treated in hospitals, while the rest have returned home but are still suffering from the psychological aftermath. Continued with video …

Employment on the rise as Thai economy continues to recover

The employment situation for Thais has consistently improved, reflecting the continued economic recovery following the pandemic, the National Statistical Office reported this week.

During thesecond quarter of 2023, 660,000 people found jobs, bringing the total number of employed individuals to 39.7 million. The increase in working hours also indicates a rise in job opportunities, with around 560,000 more people working full time (35-49 hours per week) compared to the same period in 2022. Continued …

Thai inflation to remain relatively low in Q3

The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) expects domestic inflation to remain relatively low in the third quarter following the 2.49% inflation in the first half of this year, while the Commerce Ministry estimates this year’s domestic inflation at 1%-2% with a median figure of 1.5%.

According to Wisit Limluecha, vice chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and chairman of the Processed Food and Future Food Committee (PFC) of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), the food industry is facing risks and challenges, such as economic stagnation, inflation, rising oil prices, and the effects of the El Nino phenomenon. Continued …

Thai govt mulls halting Central Plains rice farming amid anticipated drought

In a bid to counteract the effects of a potential drought, the central government of Thailand is contemplating the suspension of rice cultivation in the Central Plains region. This proposal comes alongside the potential establishment of a command center to combat reduced rainfall and water shortages.

The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) initiated this conversation, citing apprehensions about the forecasted decrease in this year’s nationwide rainfall. Surasri Kidtimonton, the secretary-general of the ONWR, expressed worry that the rainfall for the year has fallen below average, sparking prospects of a more arid rainy season. Continued …

Global warming could inflict massive loss on Thai agriculture

Global warming could break new records next year, severely affecting the agricultural sector and potentially causing losses of over 2.85 trillion baht by the year 2045, weather experts have warned.

During a panel discussion entitled “Cope and Adapt to Prevent the Global Warming Crisis”, Associate Professor Vishnu Atthavanich from the Faculty of Economics at Kasetsart University said that around 1.2 trillion trees would need to be planted just to absorb the carbon dioxide emitted in the past decade, adding that planting such a massive number of trees over a short period would be extremely challenging, if not impossible. Continued …

Founder of Wind Energy Holdings awarded US$900M in compensation by UK court

Founder and former CEO of Thai renewable energy firm Wind Energy Holdings (WEH) has been awarded US$900 million (about 30 billion baht) in compensation by a British court over a share sale swindle.

On July 31, the British court ordered the current chairman of Wind Energy Holdings (WEH) and 13 other co-defendants to compensate the founder of the company for fraudulently conspiring to lure the plaintiff into selling his shares in WEH at an undervalued price, according to a BBC Thai report. Continued …

Beach beating: 20 Thai transwomen assault foreigners in Pattaya

In the early hours of this morning, a gang of 20 Thai transwomen unleashed a physical assault on three foreigners along Beach Road in Pattaya, raising concerns due to their previous involvement in violent acts in the area.

The Pattaya Tourist Police swiftly responded to a distress call and arrived at the scene to aid the victims, comprising two Saudi Arabian men and one Palestinian man. Visibly shaken, the foreigners were taken to the police station for questioning. Continued …

Two Indian Men Drown At Phuket Beach After Allegedly Ignoring No Swimming Warnings

Two Indian tourists drowned at Karon Beach, Mueang Phuket, after allegedly ignoring red flags and no swimming warnings.

Emergency responders were notified of the incident at 6:45pm at Karon Beach on Tuesday. They arrived at the beach with red flags, which meant no swimming allowed, placed along the beach. Continued …

Bangkok: Digital nomads’ No.1 destination

Bangkok earned the prestigious title of top city for digital nomads worldwide, according to a recent survey conducted by CommercialSearch, a renowned platform specializing in working and co-working spaces. The bustling metropolis outshone all its competitors in this year’s rankings of the Best Cities for Digital Nomads.

CommercialSearch’s evaluation process involved assessing cities globally with populations exceeding 400,000 residents and completing data in all their metrics. From this comprehensive list, 57 cities emerged as the top contenders, with only one city selected from each country, ensuring a diverse set of large, well-connected urban centers that present outstanding choices for those embracing the digital nomad lifestyle. Affordability, Internet speed, coworking costs, fun factor, and safety were the key factors considered for the rankings. Continued …

Tourism revival in Thailand risks airport slot overcrowding

In anticipation of the upcoming high season, Thailand’s Tourism Authority (TAT) has expressed concerns over the slot capacity at international airports. As more flights are set to resume, it is predicted that the country will receive around 8 million tourists this year, primarily derived from long-haul markets anticipating a significant tourism revival.

The TAT’s expectations for overall foreign visitors this year include at least six million individuals from Europe, one million from the Americas, and an estimated half a million from the Middle East. Continued …

Marine officials close Maya Bay for 2 months’ ‘rest’ from tourists

Krabi’s Maya Bay, on Koh Phi Phi Leh, has been closed for two months to give the ecosystem time to recover before the return of the tourist high season. The closure has been confirmed by Ratchanok Phaenoi, chief of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park.

The picturesque bay, arguably the most famous in Thailand thanks to the 2000 Leonard di Caprio movie, The Beach, will re-open on Sept. 30. Continued …

Full Moon Party faces Buddha Days, water shortages this month

Local party and event organizers have scrambled to host the infamous Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach in Koh Pha Ngan this week while facing a number of setbacks. The country is seeing a surge in tourism due to the super-extended six-day holiday weekend, but that brings a downside for the partygoers on the island.

Normally, the week of Full Moon is full of all-night parties for at least five days, with popular shindigs like Waterfall Party and OXA Beach two nights before Full Moon, the legendary Jungle Experience the night before, Maya the day after and another Waterfall Party two days after, along with many other weekly and monthly events around the island. Continued …

What footprints do we, as tourists, leave behind?

When COVID broke out, I was an expat living in northern Thailand. In 2020, and most of 2021, the country had no access to COVID vaccines. The Thai government shut its borders to prevent the spread of disease. Most foreigners were locked out of Thailand. I was locked in.

Thailand’s shutdown of international tourism reduced the spread of COVID and was good for the natural environment. Local media reported that endangered animals were returning to coastal areas. Unfortunately, the Thai economy is heavily dependent upon international tourism. For the Thai people, the shutdown was a financial disaster. Continued …

5 great ways retirees in Thailand spend their free time

If you’re a retired expat settling down in Thailand, we bet you are keen to find your golden years with more than just basking in the sun (not that there’s anything wrong with that, of course). When the days feel a bit long, and you find yourself browsing “things to do when retired and bored” on your search engine, it’s a clear sign that you need to shake things up a bit.

But don’t worry. Thailand has a wealth of entertainment and activities that are perfect for retirees. Here are some of the most exciting ways to make your retirement in Thailand feel vibrant and thrilling. Continued …

Indulging in Meaningful Wellness experiences in Koh Samui

Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, is not only well-known for turquoise waters, white sand, and tropical rain forests but also for being one of the top wellness destinations in Thailand. What makes the tropical paradise a wellness destination? Well, it’s not merely due to its sandy beaches.

The amicable and rich culture, healthy and authentic southern Thai delicacies, diverse flora, well-protected fauna and the island’s unrivaled serenity all enrich one’s body, mind and soul. So, what is an ideal “well-cation” in Samui? Read on to find out what a perfectly curated wellness experience in Koh Samui looks like. Continued …

Surin marks Asanha Bucha with elephant parade

Thirty-seven elephants carried 71 monks in a merit-making ceremony marking Asanha Puja Day in the northeastern province of Surin on Tuesday morning.

Hundreds of Thai Buddhists attended the ceremony to offer food and refreshments to the monks, while visitors took close-up shots of the elephant parade. According to the local report, this is the world’s only merit-making ceremony held on the elephant back. Continued … 

Things to See and Do in Northern Thailand

Earlier this year, I was planning a trip to Thailand, as I’d not been to this popular destination in a long while. Initially, I had wanted to book a trip to Bangkok or Phuket, as I was familiar with those locations and missed traveling there.

But after thinking it over, I decided to try something new for once. After looking up potential destinations to visit in Thailand, I made up my mind to book a trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand’s beloved “Rose in the North”. Continued … 

Trump indicted for efforts to overturn 2020 election and block transfer of power

Donald Trump was indicted on felony charges Tuesday for working to overturn the results of the 2020 election in the run-up to the violent riot by his supporters at the U.S. Capitol, with the Justice Department moving to hold him accountable for an effort to block the transfer of presidential power.

The four-count indictment, the third criminal case against Trump, provided deeper insight into a dark chapter in American history that has already been the subject of exhaustive federal investigations and captivating public hearings. It chronicles a months-long campaign of lies about the election results and says that, even when those falsehoods culminated in a chaotic insurrection at the Capitol, Trump sought to exploit that violence by trying to delay further the counting of votes that sealed his defeat. Continued …

Food security at risk without global cooperation, authorities warn

Amidst the global food crisis, caused by soaring prices worldwide due to the Russian war in Ukraine and volatile weather conditions, India’s ban on rice exports has raised concerns about food security. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has proposed that several countries review their food export policies to address the increasing food security concerns. Continued … 

Myanmar junta pardons ex-leader Suu Kyi for five offenses

Myanmar’s military-led government has reduced the prison sentences of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi in clemency connected to a religious holiday in the Buddhist-majority country, state media said Tuesday. Continued …

Chinese EVs smash monthly sales records

Three of China’s top electric vehicle (EV) start-ups reported record monthly sales in July, as a release of pent-up demand in the world’s largest market for battery-powered cars continues. 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
cha am, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, phuket, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news- Aug 1

  • No alcohol sales today and tomorrow for religious holidays/
  • Cha Am has a new ‘naga’ attraction/
  • Bhumjaithai To Join Pheu Thai-Led Coalition Partners And Vote Srettha For PM/
  • Thai Establishment Thwarts Popular Will with Post-Election Moves/
  • Business and work visas in Thailand: What you need to know/
  • Arrests ordered in Narathiwat fireworks blast, death toll reaches 12, with 300 homes ruined/
  • Restaurant owner confronts negative reviewer at their home/
  • Driving out the gangs/
  • Abandoned mines tapped as ‘reservoirs’/
  • Economy: Thailand’s economy on recovery path as tourism rises/Thai automotive industry under threat amid political uncertainty and loan concerns/Energy Absolute, two Chinese firms to jointly set up battery cell plants in Thailand/PCB Material Giant Shengyi to Build USD196 Million Plant in Thailand/
  • Tourism: Tourism Sector Worried About Potential Street Protests if Unfavorable Government Takes Office/Thai tourism seeks visa fee waiver to attract Chinese and Indian visitors/Foreign women turn Thai rice steamers into hilarious hats/Reshaping Thailand’s healthcare to create a global treatment hub/Room for optimism in Phuket’s medical tourism industry/Phuket plans to ease reliance on tourism/
  • Thailand Experience: These 3 Thai Recipes Take Salads to Sour, Sweet, Spicy Heights/
  • International: Gold to top $2,000 this year/UNESCO Recommends Putting Venice On Heritage Danger List/
  • 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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No alcohol sales today and tomorrow for religious holidays

 

 

Cha Am has a new ‘naga’ attraction

Tourists have been flocking to a new (ish) cultural landmark in Cha-am, which officials proudly tout as the largest of its kind in all of Thailand. The naga statue “Grandfather Phaya Petch Kiri,” also known as Maha Muni Sri Suthon Nakhon Ratcha, stands 31 meters tall, stretches over 227 meters in length, and has a diameter of two meters. The statue’s body is uniquely crafted as a Yantra talisman, considered the primordial Yantra of all Yantras and regarded as the highest and most sacred. For believers, the landmark stands as a symbol of prosperity for individuals and their families. (HHT)

Bhumjaithai To Join Pheu Thai-Led Coalition Partners And Vote Srettha For PM

The Bhumjaithai party, under de facto party boss Newin Chidchob, is becoming a ninth coalition partner headed by the Pheu Thai to vote Srettha Thavisin for prime minister on the upcoming Friday.

All 71 Bhumjaithai MPs will join the 310-MPs-strong Pheu Thai-led coalition in Friday’s joint House/Senate meeting to cast yea votes for Srettha, one of a trio of the Pheu Thai candidates for head of government following the May 14 election, partisan sources said yesterday. Continued …

Thai Establishment Thwarts Popular Will with Post-Election Moves

Thailand’s 14 May general election resulted in a stunning triumph for the progressive Move Forward Party and a resounding rejection of political forces associated with the military-backed establishment that has governed since the May 2014 coup d’état.

Campaigning on a platform that directly challenged the military’s prerogatives, as well as those of the bureaucracy, oligarchy and monarchy, the establishment’s other pillars, Move Forward won 14 million votes and 151 seats, 10 more than the runner-up Pheu Thai Party, which had been the largest opposition force in parliament. But events since the election underscore a fundamental problem that animated Move Forward’s reformist agenda: unelected elites – namely, the military and its conservative allies – retain the power to determine political outcomes without regard for the popular will. Continued …

Business and work visas in Thailand: What you need to know

Dreaming of working or doing business in the sunny paradise of Thailand? You’ve probably heard the terms “business visa” or “work visa” dropped in conversations or spotted in your Google searches. But did you know these terms are just simpler ways of referring to the Non-Immigrant Visa B?

This is the visa you need if you’re a foreigner looking to work or start a business in Thailand. Want to know the requirements, application process, benefits, and validity of this visa? Well, here’s everything you need to know about the Non-Immigrant Visa B. Continued …

Arrests ordered in Narathiwat fireworks blast, death toll reaches 12, with 300 homes ruined

Authorities in the southern province of Narathiwat have issued arrest warrants for the owners of a trading center that stored fireworks for resale and exploded on Saturday at 3 pm, killing 12 people and destroying 300 houses and premises in the Muno Market area of Muno subdistrict in the Sungai Kolok district of the province bordering Malaysia.

Over 108 people were admitted to hospital but, currently, only 10 are being held with physical injuries requiring medical supervision. The arrest warrants are effective from today, and call on the owners of the local business to present themselves before the court to answer charges after a police investigation was opened on Saturday on the instructions of National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittiprapas. Continued …

Restaurant owner confronts negative reviewer at their home

Following an online uproar when a restaurant owner confronted a customer who had left a negative review, the owner herself sought to clarify events. She states she did not intend to cause distress but rather to understand the customer’s complaints.

The owner, identified only as Tum, elaborated on what happened regarding the negative review. The customer accused the unnamed Thai restaurant of under serving, and Tum claimed this directly lead to a drop in customers and income loss. Continued …

Driving out the gangs

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) will now look into five major biker gangs based in the country after arresting the leader, an Austrian national, and some members of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club in Pattaya on July 21.

The arrest of gang leader “Mr. Thomas” follows an incident in which a gang member, Olaf Thorsten Brinkmann, was involved in the murder of Hans Peter Walter Mack, 62, a German property broker in Nong Prue district, Chon Buri, in June. Continued …

Abandoned mines tapped as ‘reservoirs’

A number of abandoned mines in the northern provinces of Chiang Mai and Lamphun will soon be turned into sources of water in a water-management project aimed at countering seasonal drought and flooding. Continued …

Thailand’s economy on recovery path as tourism rises

Thailand’s economic recovery remained on track in June, as the tourism sector expanded in line with higher foreign tourist arrivals, while exports declined, the central bank said on Monday.

Economic activity was seen gradually improving, with the tourism sector remaining the main driver, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) said in a statement. Continued …

Thai automotive industry under threat amid political uncertainty and loan concerns

The Thai automotive industry is under threat due to a potential delay in forming a new government, following a marked decline in domestic car sales in the first half of this year.

As noted by Toyota Motor Thailand, the ongoing political uncertainty is likely to postpone car purchases from potential customers both domestically and in the business sector. Individuals and companies alike are keen to first understand the economic policies of the prospective coalition government before committing to major purchases. Continued …

Energy Absolute, two Chinese firms to jointly set up battery cell plants in Thailand

Energy Absolute Plc, a Thai company, is partnering with two major Chinese battery manufacturers, Eve Energy Co. Ltd. (Eve), and Sunwoda Mobility Energy Technology Co. Ltd. (Sunwoda), to conduct a feasibility study on establishing battery cell plants in Thailand.

Energy Absolute Deputy CEO Amorn Sapthaweekulof said that EA has signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Eve and Sunwoda, both large battery manufacturers in China, who are interested in expanding the battery market in Thailand. Continued … 

PCB Material Giant Shengyi to Build USD196 Million Plant in Thailand

Shengyi Technology, the world’s second-largest seller of copper clad laminate, will invest CNY1.4 billion (USD196 million) in establishing a new plant in Thailand to meet international clients’ demand for the component used in printed circuit boards.

The Chinese company will purchase a piece of land in an industrial park in Chachoengsao province in south-central Thailand, the Guangdong province-based firm said in a statement recently, without disclosing the annual capacity or the construction timetable. Continued …

Tourism Sector Worried About Potential Street Protests if Unfavorable Government Takes Office

The Thai tourism sector is worried about the formation of the new government that might consist of parties that the majority don’t like.

Sa-nga Ruengwattanakul, chairman of the Khao San Road Traders’ Assn., revealed that during the six-day long weekend, the atmosphere on Bangkok’s Khao San Road was quiet, as many Thai tourists had returned to their home provinces. Continued …

Thai tourism seeks visa fee waiver to attract Chinese and Indian visitors

A plea for the revival of a visa fee waiver program has been issued by Thailand‘s tourism industry, seeking an influx of visitors from populous nations like China and India. The request follows a lukewarm recovery in numerous essential markets and is viewed as vital for enhancing arrivals this year.

President of the Thai Hotels Assn. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi placed emphasis on targeting countries with vast populations such as China and India. This is due to tourists primarily residing in destinations like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. The need to consider budget travelers and large tour groups became evident despite high-spending tourists bolstering Thailand’s tourism statistics. Continued … 

Foreign women turn Thai rice steamers into hilarious hats

Thai netizens expressed their admiration and laughed at two foreign women who mistook Thai-style bamboo sticky rice steamers for hats. They bought them from a local vendor who could not communicate very well due to the language barrier.

A Thai man named Surat Seehabut shared pictures of the two European women wearing hats, which look like weaving baskets. The caption said, “At a local grocery shop, the foreign customers inquired, ‘What is this?’ and pointed at the sticky rice steamer. The vendor informed them, “This is a หวด (huad, which means sticky rice steamers).” They might have misheard “huad” as “hat” so they bought them.” Continued …

Reshaping Thailand’s healthcare to create a global treatment hub

Recognizing the impact of drugs on society, Thonburi Healthcare Group (THG) has established the “Horizon Rehab Center,” providing consultation and rehabilitation services for various addictions, including drugs, alcohol, gambling, social media, and video games. The group also organized a seminar with exclusive discussions to position Thailand as a treatment center for drug addicts.

Addiction problems, such as illegal drugs, alcohol, social media, video games, and gambling, have become toxic, significantly affecting the potential of the population, almost reaching epidemic proportions. Continued …

Room for optimism in Phuket’s medical tourism industry

Bumrungrad International Hospital (BIH) is spending B4.3 billion on a 150-bed boutique hospital in Mai Khao in anticipation of Phuket’s much-expected success in its developing medical tourism sector. Continued …

Phuket plans to ease reliance on tourism

The resort island province is working on a plan to develop itself into a “New Economy” less reliant on tourism for its survival.

According to Phuket’s deputy governor, Amnuay Pinsuwan, the “10+ Pillars” plan covers every aspect of the island that can enhance its economy. Those include gastronomy, education, its status as a maritime destination, medical and wellness, and SMEs. Continued …

These 3 Thai Recipes Take Salads to Sour, Sweet, Spicy Heights

When I search the internet for “Thai salads,” what usually pops up are Western adaptations with commonly associated Thai or generally Asian nuances: often a lettuce and cabbage mix with fresh herbs and, more often than not, a creamy nut-based dressing.

But when I actually delve into traditional Thai cooking, specifically the food culture of my mother’s homeland, salads are something of another level. They’re not just the start to a meal or light midday lunch, and peanut sauce dressings are a rare find. These salads go far beyond the confines of lettuce tossed with dressing. Continued …

Gold to top $2,000 this year

Gold prices are expected to rise above US$2,000 by the end of the year, amid expectations of an economic slowdown in the U.S. and Europe, intense geopolitical factors, and fewer interest rate hikes, says YLG Bullion & Futures. Continued …

UNESCO Recommends Putting Venice On Heritage Danger List

The UN’s cultural agency UNESCO on Monday recommended that Venice be added to its list of world heritage sites in danger, saying the Italian authorities needed to step up efforts to secure the historic city and its surrounding lagoon. 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, cha am, hua hin, immigration, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-July 31

  • Chomsin Road (Soi 55) road work Aug 6-15/
  • Illegally stored explosives blow up in Narathiwat, killing 12, injuring 121/
  • Thai Meteorological Department warns of soaking showers/
  • Hua Hin Profile: Flying high but with his feet firmly rooted in the soil/
  • MFP calm amid election rejig buzz/
  • Reviewing the five visa options for retirement in Thailand/
  • Electric Tuk-Tuks reduce greenhouse gas emissions, easier for the elderly to use/
  • Thai traditional medicine popularity surges amidst Covid-19 crisis/
  • Thailand’s missing monkeys: US labs or Chinese medicine to blame?/
  • Economy: EEC can expect severe water shortage by 2037 if steps not taken, says agency/Transforming waste into sustainable raw materials/Thai Food Delivery Services: Quick Entry, Quick Demise/Bangkok residential market records 29% drop in new sales/
  • Tourism: Hua Hin–Cha Am Golf Festival 2023 tees off, 30,000 golfers expected/Thailand expects holiday tourism boom earning 16.6 billion baht/Cars form long lines to catch ferry out of Koh Chang/Chiang Rai flaunts its skillful tattooists in bid to expand tourism/
  • International: As Khanun forms, China warns of third typhoon in three weeks/Typewriters popular again in Singapore, not just for aesthetic reasons/
  • 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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Chomsin Road (Soi 55) road work Aug 6-15

Chomsin Road, Soi 55, will be partially closed to traffic from Aug. 6-15, between 9am-6pm. One lane will be closed and there will be power disruptions, as well.

The contractor will be carrying out pavement removal work for a road surface expansion project.

Illegally stored explosives blow up in Narathiwat, killing 12, injuring 121

A warehouse near the main market of a village in Narathiwat’s Sungai Padi district blew up on Saturday evening, killing 12 people and injuring some 121 others.

As of press time on Sunday, 111 of the injured had been discharged from hospital. Among the deceased, seven have been claimed by families, two have been interred, two are yet to be identified and the authorities have yet to disclose information about the 12th body. Continued …

Thai Meteorological Department warns of soaking showers

The Thai Meteorological Department issued a warning today of increased and heavy rainfall due to the southwestern monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. As a result, 47 provinces are at risk of sudden flooding and forest runoff.

People in these areas have been urged to be wary of heavy rain and accumulated precipitation, which can cause these dangerous situations. Continued …

Flying high but with his feet firmly rooted in the soil

By Felicitee Lawrie

The best word I can find to describe Khun Ong, Chaiyapat Butrdee, is trailblazer. He is a man of passion and vision, is perfectly sure about the path he has decided to follow, and is doing everything in his power to smooth the path for those who make the very wise choice to travel alongside or in his footsteps.

But getting to where he is now has not been a straight or even smooth trajectory, yet Ong has displayed the tenacity and the determination required of him. His best friend would say that Ong is not like 95% of people, and I would have to agree. There is something about this man that sets him apart, as an individual and as a leader. Continued …

MFP calm amid election rejig buzz

The Move Forward Party (MFP) has dismissed speculation it will be excluded from a new government led by the Pheu Thai Party, insisting that unity among the eight prospective coalition parties remains intact.

According to sources, the latest possible configuration of a new government has emerged, still comprising the original coalition allies but with the Bhumjaithai and Chartthaipattana parties also invited to join. The Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) and the United Thai Nation Party (UTN) would remain excluded. Continued …

Reviewing the five visa options for retirement in Thailand

Thailand regularly appears in the top 10 destinations chosen by foreigners wanting to retire abroad. Unlike other Southeast Asian countries, Thailand does not offer a retiree visa, as such, but a number of choices aimed specifically or partially at this market.

Non-immigrant “O” visa conversion

This is the most popular route at present. A foreigner aged at least 50 enters the country with a visa exempt or tourist visa (30 or 60 days) and applies at local immigration to convert it to a three months non-immigrant “O” and thence to an annual extension of stay based on retirement. Typically, the financial requirement is 800,000 baht in a Thai bank or proof of monthly transfers to Thailand of at least 65,000 baht. The detailed bureaucracy varies in immigration offices nationwide and several embassies now refuse to get involved in certifying the creditworthiness of their own nationals. Continued …

Electric Tuk-Tuks reduce greenhouse gas emissions, easier for the elderly to use

Thailand is well-known for its brightly colored tuk-tuks, which are as much of a feature of the country as the ancient temples built during the Ayutthaya period. Today, the country is preparing for a greener future, by moving away from reliance on fossil-fuels and these three-wheeled vehicles might very well lead the way.

A start-up company called Muvmi was launched in 2017 with the goal of filling gaps in the transportation market. It has played an active role in putting electric tuk-tuks into widespread use in large cities. The 6 million active users are expected to continue to grow in numbers. Continued …

Thai traditional medicine popularity surges amidst covid-19 crisis

The turbulent times of the Covid-19 pandemic have become a potent catalyst for the growing popularity of Thai traditional medicine (TTM), which finds its roots firmly intertwined with diverse aspects of Thai culture, ranging from religious practices to local cuisine. This newfound acceptance of TTM as a fundamental fabric of Thai identity has emerged in the wake of the pandemic.

Traditional medicine in Thailand, known for the utilization of a broad spectrum of indigenous herbs, has seen a staggering surge in usage, as evidenced by the 20th National Herbs Expo hosted by the Ministry of Public Health. Spanning five days, from June 28 to July 2, this event provided a platform for active dialogue among professionals in the field, budding entrepreneurs, and visitors keenly interested in the mystique of TTM. Continued …

Thailand’s missing monkeys: US labs or Chinese medicine to blame?

Authorities in Thailand believe animal traffickers are smuggling monkeys across the border into Cambodia and Laos to be used for testing in laboratories.

Thai authorities blame the smuggling of long-tailed macaques on high demand from Chinese traditional medicine, but U.S. labs implicated.The U.S. has been cracking down on wildlife smuggling, and has passed a law removing the requirement for drugs to be tested on animals before humans. Video …

EEC can expect severe water shortage by 2037 if steps not taken, says agency

Thailand’s national water resources agency reckons the three provinces that make up the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) will suffer severe water shortage by 2037.

The Office of the National Water Resources puts this shortage down to rising population, industrial development, tourism and farming. EEC comprises Chachoengsao, Chonburi and Rayong provinces. Continued …

Transforming waste into sustainable raw materials

Thailand generated about 37 million tons of waste last year, of which 3 million tons were hazardous waste.

To reduce waste, a collaborative research and development agreement was signed by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), the National Science and Technology Development Agency, and the Department of Industrial Works. This initiative aims to reduce waste. Continued …

Thai Food Delivery Services: Quick Entry, Quick Demise

The Thai food industry is a “paradise” for foodies, ranging from street food to upscale restaurants, with an estimated value of more than 4 trillion baht and continuous growth.

According to Yod Chinsupakul, CEO of LINE MAN Wongnai, however, the data collected from restaurant owners on the delivery platform reveals a somewhat sad truth. Within 12 months of opening, about 50% of new restaurant businesses have to close due to “lack of sales”. Continued …

Bangkok residential market records 29% drop in new sales

The Bangkok residential property market witnessed a significant 29.1% drop in new sales in the first quarter of 2023, with condos being the primary factor contributing to the slowdown.

Vichai Viratkapan, acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said the number of newly sold residential units in Greater Bangkok in the first quarter tallied 21,291 units, with a total value of 105.7 billion baht. Continued …

Hua Hin–Cha Am Golf Festival 2023 tees off, 30,000 golfers expected

The Hua Hin–Cha Am Golf Festival 2023 officially got underway on Sunday at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, marking the start of a month-long golfing extravaganza set to energize tourism and boost the local economy.

The festival offers discounted green fees throughout the entirety of August and September, making it an ideal time for golfers to experience golf in the region. Continued … 

Thailand expects holiday tourism boom earning 16.6 billion baht

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is forecasting a substantial influx of travel and expenditure within the nation from July 28 to Aug. 2. Projections are currently pointing at nearly five million trips, which could potentially rake in 16.6 billion baht across the country.

TAT Gov. Yuttasak Supasorn indicated that the estimated surge in domestic travels during this unique long holiday weekend may spur hotel occupancy rates to around 63%. Continued …

Cars form long lines to catch ferry out of Koh Chang

Tourists who had gone to Koh Chang on Friday for the long weekend created chaos on the island on Sunday, as cars began queuing up to catch the ferry.

Police said cars had filled the 4-kilometer road between Ban Had Sai Khao and Ban Dan Kao villages, as tourists waited for their turn to get on the ferry to Trat. The queue also spilled over to the top of Koh Chang Mountain to the pier of Pineapple Bay, with vehicles moving at a snail’s pace, police added. Continued …

Chiang Rai flaunts its skillful tattooists in bid to expand tourism

In an effort to boost tourism and revenue, the northern province of Chiang Rai is now looking to woo tourists interested in getting tattoos at cheap prices.

For this, local authorities and businesses got together to launch the “Tattoo Body Artists” and “Amazing Body Art @ Chiangrai” promotions at Central Chiang Rai shopping mall on Saturday. Showcased at the events were displays of body art created by local tattoo shops. Continued …

As Khanun forms, China warns of third typhoon in three weeks

China is bracing for the third typhoon in three weeks to roar in next week as scientists warn of more frequent and violent storms as a result of global warming. Khanun, now more than 1,000km east of the Philippine archipelago in the Pacific, may make landfall in China’s economically important Zhejiang province as early as Tuesday, Chinese forecasters said. Continued …

Typewriters popular again in Singapore, not just for aesthetic reasons

The ubiquitous clickety-clack of their keys was supposed to have gone the way of the dodo. But typewriters have become fashionable again. People continue coming up with novel ways to reinforce the relevance of typewriters in the digital age – from a stress-relieving pastime to a useful tool for engaging children. 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
chiang mai, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-July 29

1 Comment

  • Free entrance to national parks during long break/
  • Downpours forecast for most of Thailand until Thursday/
  • Heart failure: cardiologists put out a call to action/
  • Female teachers required to serve alcohol, dance at religious event/
  • Economy: Thai political uncertainty could have ramifications for new investments/Property developers glum on outlook/
  • Tourism: Long holiday a boon for Ko Samui tourism/Unprecedented six-day holiday leads to tourist boom in Pattaya/Eastern Trat islands see huge influx of visitors as long holiday break begins/Thai health and wellness tourism in the global spotlight/
  • Thailand Experience: Guardians of The Forest: Fading Stripes/Thailand’s wild tigers have doubled in number to 189 since 2014/10 Best Natural Attractions in Chiang Mai for a Therapeutic Trip/In perfect harmony: an ode to Buddhism/
  • International: Typhoon Doksuri destroys power lines, closes factories as it rips into China/US announces $345M military aid package for Taiwan/
  • 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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Free entrance to national parks during long break

To promote domestic tourism, national parks nationwide will offer free admission to visitors during the six-day holiday, said the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation on its Facebook page on Friday.

The long break started yesterday, His Majesty the King’s birthday, and continues until Wednesday, the start of Buddhist Lent. To help travelers decide which park to visit, the department listed the 10 most popular during the same period last year: Continued …

Downpours forecast for most of Thailand until Thursday

Heavy to very heavy rains are forecast to continue in most parts of Thailand until next Thursday due to a moderate monsoon trough lying across the upper north and Laos, and a low-pressure area near the coast of upper Vietnam, the Meteorological Department said.

Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will intensify from Saturday to Thursday, according to the department’s seven-day forecast issued on Friday. Continued …

Heart failure: cardiologists put out a call to action

If you experience fatigue or you notice that one or both of your legs is swollen, you will probably brush it off, blaming the tiredness on too-busy days and the swelling on sitting in the same position for too long. But writing off these seemingly innocuous symptoms is a mistake, as they might well be telling you that your heart is failing.

Lack of knowledge aside, it’s perhaps even more worrying is that overlooking these symptoms is one of the reasons why 16.1% of heart failure cases are misdiagnosed in hospitals. Continued …

Female teachers required to serve alcohol, dance at religious event

An ongoing Thai school controversy has unfolded, involving a large school planning to host a religious “Pa Pha” ceremony, which attracted criticism due to directives issued that required female teachers to perform traditional dance and serve alcohol to guests. The incident has provoked heated discussions online following the incident’s exposure on social media.

The Thai school controversy came to light after a female teacher reported the issue through a social media page named “Teacher Indy.” She revealed that a large school yesterday was organizing a “Pa Pha” school ceremony during which the female teachers were expected not only to dress up and dance as traditional dancers but also serve alcohol to the guests. Continued …

Thai political uncertainty could have ramifications for new investments

Foreign companies are closely monitoring the political situation in Thailand, but they assured that they were continuing to invest in Thailand despite the political uncertainty, according to different sources.

They want the next government to pursue a policy of energy independence and sustainable energy to create a conducive environment for long-term business growth. Continued …

Property developers glum on outlook

Property developers have called for the new government to be formed as soon as possible, as it would facilitate a speedy economic recovery and ultimately stimulate the housing property sector amid several negative factors and risks.

Apichart Chutrakul, chairman of Sansiri, said the situation regarding the Russia-Ukraine war remained uncertain at present, posing risks to the global economy. Continued …

Long holiday a boon for Ko Samui tourism

The Ko Samui airport in the southern province of Surat Thani has become lively and crowded with many Thai and foreign tourists who started arriving at this famous island resort on Friday, the first day of a six-day long holiday, thanks to the cabinet’s decision to declare Monday, July 31, an extra day off.

All Bangkok Airways flights from Suvarnabhumi airport in Samut Prakan province to Ko Samui were fully booked, as were all direct flights to the island from Hong Kong and Singapore. Continued …

Unprecedented six-day holiday leads to tourist boom in Pattaya

Yesterday marked the kick-off of an unprecedented six-day holiday. Pattaya‘s beaches and tourist hotspots were abuzz as visitors flocked, particularly to Koh Larn, a stunning island located roughly 7 kilometers from the coast. According to local accommodation providers, the entirety of the island’s estimated 3,000 rooms were booked out.

The rush of tourists, both Thai and foreign, regularly set sail from Bali Hai pier in South Pattaya to the island. In response to the influx, the Pattaya City Municipality, in collaboration with the Marine Office, mobilized officials to assist in managing the crowd at the pier. Continued …

Eastern Trat islands see huge influx of visitors as long holiday break begins

Tourists flocked to scenic islands in the eastern seaboard province of Trat as a six-day holiday break started on Friday.

Ferries from mainland Trat were crowded with vacationers and their cars amid a sharp increase in visitors to the islands of Chang, Kood and Mak. Continued …

Thai health and wellness tourism in the global spotlight

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) gained greater opportunities to tap into the medical and wellness market at the Amazing Thailand Health and Wellness New Chapters New Experience Exclusive Trade Meet 2023.

Held earlier this week in Bangkok, the event was designed to connect health and wellness representatives from all over the world with Thai entrepreneurs. In addition to showcasing innovative health and wellness tourism products, the event fostered collaboration through seminars and business negotiations. Continued …

Guardians of The Forest: Fading Stripes

What is your favorite place to connect with nature? Picture yourself in the heart of a vast and ancient jungle, surrounded by towering huge trees holding untold past secrets. The air is thick with nature’s beauty, and the sounds of wildlife create a melody of life.

A faraway roar sends shivers down your spine and is a reminder of the regal presence of the tiger, known as the “king of the jungle.” This has become a rare scene these days. Today, the sounds of devastation drown out the echoes of their once-powerful dominion. This is the story of struggle, resilience, and hope in the face of an ongoing attack on their “homes”. Continued …

Thailand’s wild tigers have doubled in number to 189 since 2014

There are now as many as 189 wild tigers in Thailand’s forests, a 100% increase since 2014, according to a census conducted using camera traps, said Atthaphon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, on International Tiger Day today.

Most of the tigers are to be found in Kaeng Krachan, Dong Phyayen-Khao Yai, Hala Bala-Bang Lang and western forests, he said, adding that the department launched the second national action plan to conserve the big cats, which runs from last year until 2034, with the aim of further increasing the tiger population and that of their prey. Continued …

10 Best Natural Attractions in Chiang Mai for a Therapeutic Trip

Does a therapeutic trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand sound appealing to you? Aside from the mouthwatering delicacies and cultural heritage, there are so many underrated natural attractions in this beautiful destination in Thailand that are worth exploring. For your upcoming vacation, visit Chiang Mai and be amazed by the natural beauty and rejuvenating activities it offers!

10 Must-visit natural attractions in Chiang Mai

1. Doi Inthanon National Park

Google the word Chiang Mai and you’ll probably stumble upon a gorgeous picture of the Doi Inthanon National Park. Not only is it an icon of Chiang Mai, but it is also one of the most popular parks in Thailand! Continued …

In perfect harmony: an ode to Buddhism

This Monday, Chalermchai Dongchan will be one of the four devotees chanting the Vessantara Jataka, or Maha Chat Kham Luang, in front of Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua at the Emerald Buddha Temple.

“Chanting Maha Chat Kham Luang has been my proud mission since 2010,” the 42-year-old civil servant with the Culture Ministry’s Religious Affairs Department said. Continued …

Typhoon Doksuri destroys power lines, closes factories as it rips into China

Typhoon Doksuri swept into China’s southeastern Fujian province on Friday, unleashing heavy rain and violent gusts of wind that whipped power lines, sparking fires, uprooted trees and forced factories and shopping malls to shut. Continued …

US announces $345M military aid package for Taiwan

The United States on Friday unveiled a $345 million military aid package for Taiwan designed to quickly bolster the island’s ability to deter a Chinese invasion. 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-July 28

  • Fishing pier walking street opened for holiday weekend/
  • Hundreds of amateur footballers to descend on Hua Hin/
  • Phetchaburi to host 2-day food and art event/
  • Long holiday to boost domestic tourism, hotel occupancy/
  • PKK monkeys to Phuket? Relocation tackles rampant macaque issue in Phetchaburi and PKK/
  • Thailand election: New Thai PM could be elected on Aug. 4, but…/Thaksin’s pending return signals done deal?/’Deal struck on next govt’/
  • Economy: Fuel tariff for Sept-Dec lowered, but private sector opposes it/Thai CEOs’ Top Concerns: Government Formation Delay and Global Demand Slowdown/Climatologist paints bleak picture for Thai farmers/Household debt rose to an average of 559,408 baht this year/
  • Tourism: Russian Elites Transforming Thailand’s Biggest Island as They Become More Unwelcome in the West/TAT Adopts Cautious Approach to Visa Fee Waiver Scheme/41st Thailand Tourism Festival in Bangkok from Aug. 2-6/What Happened to All Those Chinese Tourists?/
  • Thailand Experience: A visitor’s guide to ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand/Top 10 travel tips for your first trip to Thailand/Thailand: Why Many Men Become ‘Short-Term’ Monks/
  • International: Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi moved from prison/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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Fishing pier walking street opened for holiday weekend

The Saphan Pla Walking Street on the Hua Hin fishing pier will be open for an additional day for the upcoming long weekend. The walking street will be open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, from 5pm.

Hundreds of amateur footballers to descend on Hua Hin

Hua Hin is gearing up to host not one, but two major amateur football tournaments this September. Organized by the Viking Club Hua Hin, these tournaments are set to become annual fixtures in Hua Hin’s sporting calendar.

With the True Arena Hua Hin sports complex boasting pristine FIFA-standard real grass pitches, the stage is set for what are expected to be eagerly anticipated events. Continued …

Phetchaburi to host 2-day food and art event

The Phetchaburi Creative City of Gastronomy event is a two-day cultural and culinary celebration that will feature local cuisine, food demonstrations, free food tastings, cultural performances and folk entertainment, contemporary music performances, goldsmith and other local craftsmanship demonstrations, and local product sales.

The event will be held at the Wat Yai Suwannaram, and Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) in Phetchaburi from 4-10pm, Aug 45.

The event will feature: performances and demonstrations of culture/local food from eight districts; exhibitions and demonstrations of Phetchaburi’s craftsmanship; an exhibition of cultural products by CPOT; contemporary art performances and demonstrations; a photography exhibition of the Eat & Art project; music and local cultural performances; a community tourism exhibition; a creative food exhibition by Rajabhat Phetchaburi University; an innovative food exhibition by Silpakorn University; a cultural market; exhibitions from various organizations/educational institutions.

For more information, contact the Phetchaburi Provincial Office of Culture at 03242 4324; map location.

Long holiday to boost domestic tourism, hotel occupancy

The six-day holiday that starts today will generate up to 1.66 billion baht in domestic tourism from nearly 5 million trips made by Thais, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said on Thursday.

The long break starts on Friday (July 28), His Majesty the King’s birthday, and continues until Wednesday (Aug. 2), the start of Buddhist Lent. The caretaker government on Tuesday designated Monday (July 31) as an extra public holiday to give Thais more time to head back to their home towns. Continued …

PKK monkeys to Phuket? Relocation tackles rampant macaque issue in Phetchaburi and PKK

In what’s being hailed as a successful initiative, multiple crab-eating macaques have been relocated from communities within Phetchaburi to an island in Phuket, under a pilot project. The venture has cleared the road for the relocation of more from the rapidly increasing macaque population in the province, as well as the neighboring Prachuap Khiri Khan, according to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.

The project is part of the ministry’s efforts to mitigate the damaging effects seen on local communities due to the rapid surge in the macaque population, as advised by Yuthapol Angkinan, consultant to the Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment. Continued … 

New Thai PM could be elected on Aug. 4, but…

Fugitive, and former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra met with former Future Forward Leader and 2019 PM candidate Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit on Tuesday this week, adding more spice to the messy ingredients already in play for the next meeting of Parliament.

House Speaker and parliament president Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has called a meeting for next Friday, Aug. 4, to elect Thailand’s’s next PM. Wan says that if the Constitutional Court rejects the petition challenging lawmakers’ blocking of Pita Limjaroenrat’s re-nomination, the vote can go ahead. Continued …

Thaksin’s pending return signals done deal?

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra wants his planned return to Thailand to be seen as a family affair. But few are fooled by his latest political act.

All of a sudden, Thaksin has become a key player in the weeks-long political haggling over the formation of a post-election coalition. His announcement that he will finally end his self-exile and fly back to Bangkok on Aug. 10 is seen by many as a signal that a deal has already been sealed. Continued …

‘Deal struck on next govt’

A political deal involving the formation of a new government has been reached in Hong Kong between ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the leader of the Progressive Movement, ahead of Thaksin’s plan to return to Thailand, a source in the Pheu Thai Party says.

The source said Thanathorn flew to Hong Kong on Monday morning and returned to Thailand the following day. Continued …

Fuel tariff for Sept-Dec lowered, but private sector opposes it

The private sector is not happy with the electricity cost of 4.45 baht per unit from September to December announced on Thursday by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), saying that positive energy-related factors should have pushed it lower.

The ERC announced a fuel tariff (Ft) of 66.89 satang per unit, which is equivalent to 4.45 baht per unit of electricity for the period September to December. Continued …

Thai CEOs’ Top Concerns: Government Formation Delay and Global Demand Slowdown

According to a survey by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) with a sample size of 258 CEOs from 45 industries, their top domestic concerns include:

  1. The delay in government formation and political conflicts after the election (81%)
  2. High production costs, including electricity, energy, raw materials, and logistics (76.4%) Continued …

Climatologist paints bleak picture for Thai farmers

More than 20 million Thai farming households are currently living on or below the poverty line due to various factors, including the fear of El Nino, which severely affects and increases hardships for those who work the land.

Dr. Seri Suprathit, director of Rangsit University’s Climate Change and Disaster Center, says that comprehensive reforms are needed to increase agricultural productivity, reduce water usage, and implement innovative solutions for survival. Continued …

Household debt rose to an average of 559,408 baht this year

Household debt in Thailand has climbed to an average of 559,408 baht per household, an increase of 11% compared to last year, due to slow economic recovery, the COVID19 pandemic, political conflict and geopolitical issues.

The Bank of Thailand is implementing measures to tackle the debt problem, adding that there is an urgent need for financial education and plans to manage expenditure in the long term. Given that household debt accounts for 90% of Thailand’s GDP, the forecast for next year’s GDP indicates a positive economic outlook. Continued …

Russian Elites Transforming Thailand’s Biggest Island as They Become More Unwelcome in the West

Thailand has long been a top destination for tourists. But one group in particular is now flocking to Phuket, the country’s largest island: Russian elites.

While many Russians are getting turned away from Western countries, thanks to Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine, they’re finding a friendly welcome in Thailand, Bloomberg reported on Thursday. From January to June of this year, more than 790,000 Russian nationals arrived in the country, a whopping 1,000% increase from the same time last year, according to the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports. More than half of those people flew into Phuket, with Russians being the No. 1 group of tourists to the island, the Phuket Tourist Assn. said. Continued …

TAT Adopts Cautious Approach to Visa Fee Waiver Scheme

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is taking a cautious approach toward implementing a visa fee waiver scheme to attract more foreign tourists.

In response to tourism operators urging the government to offer a visa fee waiver scheme to stimulate the market, TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn stated that it may not be the best strategy, given that the main issue is currently the lengthy waiting period during the visa application process. Continued …

41st Thailand Tourism Festival in Bangkok from Aug. 2-6

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has scheduled the 41st Thailand Tourism Festival (TTF 2023) from Aug. 2-6, at Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) under the concept of “Inno-Cultural for Sustainable Tourism” representing a combination of innovative technology and culture, unseen travel experiences, and sustainability.

Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT governor, said “This year’s Thailand Tourism Festival is conceptualized to bring the wonders of Thailand for a fantastic five-day showcase. The event will focus on promoting unseen tourist attractions, telling untold stories, sharing unlimited experiences, and highlighting amazing travel opportunities that are unpredictable beyond expectations, unbelievable in their appeal, and unforgettable in the impressions they will create.” Continued …

What Happened to All Those Chinese Tourists?

Before Covid, Malaysia’s luxury mall beneath Kuala Lumpur’s iconic Petronas Towers echoed with the sound of Chinese tourists and their dialects. But recently, during a busy dinner hour, they were missing.

Din, the mall’s outlet of famous Taiwanese chain Din Tai Fung, a favorite of Chinese tourists, was half-full with local Malaysians and Middle Eastern customers. When I asked a cashier whether they had served many Chinese lately, she shook her head with a tight smile. That’s a problem. Continued … 

A visitor’s guide to ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand

If you are a tourist, a trip to Thailand is incomplete without seeing the country’s extraordinary elephants. These majestic animals have been an integral part of Thailand’s culture and history, used for a variety of purposes, such as for transportation, war, logging (in the timber industry), and now tourism.

Video 

Currently, there are around 3,500 – 4,000 captive elephants in Thailand. Wild elephant numbers range from 3,000 – 3,700, with declining population numbers every year. Continued …

Top 10 travel tips for your first trip to Thailand

Thailand, a captivating destination renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, cultural heritage, and lively urban centers, has long captured the hearts of travelers worldwide.

If you plan your inaugural voyage to this enchanting country, meticulous preparation will ensure you make the most of your experience. Following are indispensable tips for an unforgettable trip to Thailand: Continued … 

Thailand: Why Many Men Become ‘Short-Term’ Monks

After graduating from university, Palath Dilokloetthanakorn, then 22, did what many other young Thai men do before starting their careers: he joined a Buddhist monastery.

“It just felt like a tradition I had to do for my parents, especially as their eldest son,” he said, noting his parents were overjoyed on the day he was ordained. Continued …

Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi moved from prison

Myanmar civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was ousted in a 2021 military coup, has been moved from prison to a government building, an official from her party said 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
hua hin, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-July 27

  • Thailand Hikes Entrance Fees for Foreign Visitors at Historical Attractions/
  • Heavy rain forecast for most of Thailand from July 29 to Aug. 1/
  • Soi dog from Hua Hin Railway Station finds new home/
  • As El Nino fuels fire risk, Southeast Asia prepares for haze crisis/
  • Key considerations when applying for a business license in Thailand/
  • Don Mueang Airport’s Director Transferred Over Horrific Accident/
  • Group works to end frozen British expat pensions/
  • Locals complain as Phetchaburi overrun with thieving macaques/
  • Pa thong ko named fifth best street food sweet in the world/
  • Thailand election: MFP seeks reconsideration of Pita’s prime ministerial candidacy/What Pheu Thai’s policies mean for the people and the economy/Meeting in Hong Kong Sparks Speculation on Government Formation/
  • Economy: Thai GDP growth forecast sees downward revision as tourism revenue below estimates/Rising cost of living top concern among Thais/Thailand ranks 7th among world tea producers/
  • Tourism: Low-cost carriers ramp up China flights/
  • Thailand Experience: 10 Things To Know Before Visiting Khao Sok National Park/
  • International: Cambodia leader to step down in 3 weeks, his son will succeed him/China, Taiwan Prepare For Their Most Powerful Typhoon This Year/’Second wave has begun’: Ukraine makes push for southern province/Global warming contributing to rise in skin cancer/
  • 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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Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Thailand Hikes Entrance Fees for Foreign Visitors at Historical Attractions

In a recent move by the Thai government, entrance fees for foreign visitors at historical landmarks have been raised.

This amendment affects both registered historical locations and 72 national museums across the country. However, the fees for Thai nationals will remain consistent with the rates set in 2008. Continued …

Heavy rain forecast for most of Thailand from July 29 to Aug. 1

People living in northern, northeastern, central and southern Thailand can expect heavy to very heavy rain and accumulations, which may cause flash floods and overflows, especially along waterways and lowland from July 29 to Aug. 1, according to the Meteorological Department.

It says that a moderate monsoon trough will move south, to lie across northern Laos, meeting a low pressure cell over the coast of northern Vietnam. In the meantime, the southwest monsoon prevailing over Thailand will strengthen. Continued …

Soi dog from Hua Hin Railway Station finds new home

A heartwarming story about a stray dog in Hua Hin named Chao Long has captured the attention and affection of netizens in Thailand after it went viral on social media earlier this month.

The story revolves around the Hua Hin Railway Police, who had been caring for the dog, and the uncertain fate that awaited Chao Long when the railway police station was slated for closure. Continued … 

As El Nino fuels fire risk, Southeast Asia prepares for haze crisis

Southeast Asian nations are gearing up to tackle the threat of a tougher-than-usual “haze” season together, as the El Nino climate phenomenon raises the risk of soaring temperatures.

Ministers and officials from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met in Singapore last month, where they vowed to ramp up monitoring of wildfires and efforts to prevent air pollution, and finalize a new plan to boost cooperation. Continued …

Key considerations when applying for a business license in Thailand

Starting a business in a foreign country can be a challenging and complex endeavor, especially when it comes to navigating the legal landscape. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on Thailand law firms and legal services, specifically tailored for entrepreneurs looking to establish or expand their businesses in this captivating country.

We aim to break down complex concepts and guide you through the essentials, so you can focus on what truly matters – growing your business in Thailand and achieving success throughout the dynamic market. Continued …

Don Mueang Airport’s Director Transferred Over Horrific Accident

The Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) yesterday transferred the director of Don Mueang Airport to the head office after a female passenger’s left leg was severed to the knee upon being swallowed by a moving walkway on June 29.

The director, Karun Thanakuljeerapat, will now assume the position of a consultant at the head office, while Wichit Kaewsaithiam, the director of Chiang Mai Airport, replaces him at Don Mueang. Continued …

Group works to end frozen British expat pensions

A new page and associated group has been created to assist and support the campaign to “End Frozen Pensions” – for those affected British ex-pats who live in Thailand.

Frozen state pensions is the practice of the British government of “freezing” UK state pensions (that is, not uprating the amount in line with “Triple Lock” on an annual basis, as is done for residents in the UK), for pensioners who live in the majority of other countries, apart from the European Community countries and a few other countries with reciprocal agreements with the UK. Continued …

Locals complain as Phetchaburi overrun with thieving macaques

Phetchaburi authorities are pushing for long-tailed macaques to be removed from the protected animals list because their population has been rising and they are becoming a nuisance for the locals.

Provincial Gov. Natthachai Nampoolsuksan visited the Phra Nakhon Khiri Park on Tuesday after receiving complaints that the long-tailed macaques living in the area have been disturbing locals. Continued … 

Pa thong ko named fifth best street food sweet in the world

TasteAtlas, the renowned food website, released its rankings for street food desserts. Topping the list at number one with a rating of 4.8 points is the Portuguese delicacy pastel de nata.

However, Thai street food fares just as well, showcasing its culinary prowess. The delectable Thai snack pa thong ko secured the fifth spot, earning a highly commendable rating of 4.6 points. Continued … 

MFP seeks reconsideration of Pita’s prime ministerial candidacy

The Move Forward Party (MFP) is determined to push for a reconsideration of Pita Limjaroenrat’s renomination as a prime ministerial candidate, urging the National Assembly to handle the matter internally without involving the Constitution Court.

The scheduled Parliament meeting for prime minister (PM) selection, initially set for July 27, took an unexpected turn when Parliament President Wan Muhamad Nor Matha, also known as Wan Nor, suddenly canceled it. This decision came in response to a complaint filed with the Constitution Court by the ombudsman regarding the rejection of Pita’s candidacy. Continued …

What Pheu Thai’s policies mean for the people and the economy

The Pheu Thai Party’s economic platform is back in focus now that it has been tasked with the responsibility of forming the next government.

Pheu Thai, which has the second highest number of seats in the House of Representatives, finds itself in the driver’s seat after coalition leader Move Forward failed to get its candidate elected prime minister. Continued …

Meeting in Hong Kong Sparks Speculation on Government Formation

News reports that Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul met with former PM Thaksin Shinawatra in Hong Kong before Thaksin’s latest announcement of his return to Thailand on Aug. 10 have dominated the airwaves.

Following the alleged meeting, the Pheu Thai’s meeting with coalition partners on Tuesday was canceled, and the prime minister voting that was set for Thursday has been postponed. Continued …

Thai GDP growth forecast sees downward revision as tourism revenue below estimates

The Ministry of Finance has revised down Thailand’s economic growth projection this year to 3.5%, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous estimate of 3.6%.

The downward adjustment is due to assumptions of reduced per capita spending by tourists per trip, although the number of tourists is still expected to be around 29.5 million. Additionally, exports are expected to contract by 0.8%, according to Fiscal Policy Office Director-general Pornchai Thiraveja. Continued …

Rising cost of living top concern among Thais

Ipsos, a market research and consumer opinion survey company, has just published the results of its survey on the issues that most concern people in 30 countries around the globe.

For Thailand, where the survey covered the past six months and involved a sample group of 6,000 people aged 18 and above, representing the demographics across the country, the top five concerns were given as follows: Continued …

Thailand ranks 7th among world tea producers

Data compiled on the global tea market in 2022 reveal that worldwide tea production is valued at over US$17 billion annually, while the global tea trade is valued at US$9.5 billion, with the main revenue coming from tea exports.

It’s a market that’s expanding at 6%-7% annually, and by 2025 the culture of consuming tea is projected to increase by 5%, for a total of 7.4 million kilograms of tea, says Asst. Prof Piyaporn Chueamchaitrakun, head of the Tea and Coffee Institute at Mae Fah Luang University in Chiang Rai. Continued …

Low-cost carriers ramp up China flights

Low-cost airlines are ramping up flights to China, although capacity continues to lag the level recorded prior to the pandemic, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) doesn’t wish to rush into using a visa fee waiver scheme to attract more foreign tourists.

Despite lifting border restrictions since the beginning of this year, which was earlier than expected, the tourism market is expected to only recover to less than 50% of the level seen in 2019, which peaked at roughly 10 million. Continued …

10 Things To Know Before Visiting Khao Sok National Park

Travelers planning a trip to Thailand should consider visiting Khao Sok National Park as part of their itinerary. While it’s easy to spend a full week lounging on the beaches in the Phi Phi Islands (which also offer free things to do for budget travelers) or scuba diving in Koh Tao (home to some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world), there’s more to discover in the country’s south.

Khao Sok National Park is worth spending a few days exploring, as it’s home to some of the most amazing hidden gems in Thailand. Find out more about why it’s worth travelers’ attention and what to know before going. Continued …

Cambodia leader to step down in 3 weeks, his son will succeed him

Longtime Cambodian leader Hun Sen said Wednesday he will step down in three weeks as prime minister and hand the position to his oldest son, who won his first seat in Parliament in Sunday’s election. Continued …

China, Taiwan Prepare For Their Most Powerful Typhoon This Year

China urged fishing boats to seek shelter and farmers to speed up their harvest, while Taiwan suspended annual military drills as Super Typhoon Doksuri spiraled closer to East Asia, potentially reaching deep into China. Continued …

‘Second wave has begun’: Ukraine makes push for southern province

A major push in the southern Zaporizhzhia province Wednesday appears to signify Ukraine has launched a more aggressive phase of what so far has been a slow-developing counteroffensive aimed at recapturing territory from Russian occupation. Continued …

Global warming contributing to rise in skin cancer

Global warming is contributing to a rise in skin cancer globally, including Thailand, where rates are rising among women over 50 years of age. Rates of skin cancer rose about 1% per year among women aged 50 and older from 2015 to 2019 but stabilized among men, according to the Global Cancer Observatory. 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
climate change, hua hin, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s News-July 26

  • Expect weather changes as strong southwest monsoon engulfs Thailand
  • Kalasin’s Phu Noi site reveals bones of Thailand’s 13th dinosaur/
  • Fake News becoming endemic in Thailand/
  • Crocodiles rock a community after 10 escape farm during flood/
  • Thailand Election: Parliament vote for Thailand’s next PM postponed/Constitutional Court may not decide this week on ombudsmen’s petition/Foreign chambers warn Thailand of lost opportunities/
  • Economy: Turning Cricket Farming into a Primary Income Source/What carbon tariffs mean for Thailand/
  • Tourism: Top 10 Tips for Travelers to Thailand/
  • Thailand Experience: Here are the do’s and don’ts of elephant encounters in Thailand/Tracing Buddhism’s journey To Thailand/Ladchado’s spectacular candle festival/Top 12 Fun Things to Do in Koh Samui/
  • International: Climate change role in July heatwaves ‘overwhelming’, scientists say/Florida ocean temperature topped 37.8°C, setting potential record/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Expect weather changes as strong southwest monsoon engulfs Thailand

Temperatures are expected to dip, and significant rain is forecast across various parts of Thailand today, the The Meteorological Department (TMD) warns.

Regions, including central Thailand, the east, and parts of the south are expecting a 60% chance of thunderstorms. Various factors, such as the intense southwest monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, upper Thailand, and the upper Gulf of Thailand, coupled with the low-pressure cell covering upper Vietnam, are contributing to the weather changes. Continued …

Kalasin’s Phu Noi site reveals bones of Thailand’s 13th dinosaur

Thai and French researchers have discovered an almost complete set of bones of a new breed of dinosaur at the Phu Noi archaeological site in the northeastern province of Kalasin.

The Minimocursor phunoiensis gen. et sp. nov. was Thailand’s 13th dinosaur and its discovery was published in the 2023 edition of Diversity, an international, peer-reviewed open-access journal on July 13. Continued …

Fake News becoming endemic in Thailand

Over 7,000 fake news stories were reported in Thailand last year, according to the country’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES). The statistics indicate that most fake news involved misleading information about Thai government policy and healthcare.

As fake news has been growing Thailand, due to the increasing use of technology, people are now more aware of the problem. The quantity of fake news does not, however, seem to be reducing, said Dr. Santiphap Phoemmongkhonsap, the deputy director of the Anti-Fake News Center of Thailand. Continued … 

Crocodiles rock a community after 10 escape farm during flood

Ten crocodiles escaped from a local farm in the Tung Yai district of the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat yesterday after the area was hit by a deluge. Locals managed to capture four of the escaped reptiles but six others are still at large in the residential area

The district office swiftly issued an official warning to residents in the affected area, cautioning them about the potential dangers posed by the escaped crocodiles. The spot where these animals fled is close to a popular play area for local children and near to where some residents keep their cows. Continued …

Parliament vote for Thailand’s next PM postponed

House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has postponed the PM vote scheduled for Thursday in response to ombudsmen calling on the Constitutional Court to rule on lawmakers’ blocking PM-hopeful Pita Limjaroenrat’s renomination.

On Monday, the three ombudsmen unanimously questioned whether lawmakers violated the Constitution by blocking Move Forward Party leader Pita from being renominated for a second round of voting for prime minister. Continued …

Constitutional Court may not decide this week on ombudsmen’s petition

The Constitutional Court is unlikely to consider today a petition of the ombudsmen asking the court to suspend the PM election in Parliament on Thursday, a source said.

The ombudsmen had resolved on Monday to annul the decision of the majority of senators and MPs to block Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat from being renominated in the next round of the PM election. Continued …

Foreign chambers warn Thailand of lost opportunities

Foreign business communities in Thailand are hoping that the new government is established within one month, as the longer it is delayed the more opportunities the country will lose, according to the former chairman of the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT).

Stanley Kang said that because there was no clear winner in the May 14 election, investors have been patiently waiting to see which parties would be able to form the new government. Continued …

Turning Cricket Farming into a Primary Income Source

In Tambon Rang Ka Yai, Amphoe Phimai, Nakhon Ratchasima province, Boonchuay, a 63-year-old trader, transformed the unused space behind his house into a successful edible insect farm.

Boonchuay’s establishment comprises three cement ponds, each measuring 2 meters wide and 3 meters long. Within these, trays of unfertilized chicken eggs are stacked in layers to house crickets, locusts, and other insects. Continued …

What carbon tariffs mean for Thailand

In about two months, exporters will see the enforcement of the European Union’s (EU) Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) during a transitional period. Perceived by entrepreneurs as a new non-tariff barrier, the CBAM is aimed at combating global warming. A similar tool to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions is also planned by the U.S.

CBAM is a tariff on products that release a high level of carbon dioxide during the manufacturing process. Continued …

Top 10 Tips for Travelers to Thailand

Are you planning your first-ever trip to Thailand? Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Land of Smiles! With its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Thailand is a top destination for travelers from around the world.

Thailand, with its captivating allure, presents a plethora of experiences to delight its visitors. Nevertheless, to truly seize the essence of this enchanting tourist paradise, a meticulously crafted itinerary becomes indispensable. Here is our comprehensive first-time travel guide to Thailand. Continued …

This is a definite no-no; elephants are tortured to allow tourists to ride them

Here are the do’s and don’ts of elephant encounters in Thailand

Technically a large island, Phuket is Thai for “hill” and features lush landscapes, luxe resorts and party beaches that entice millions of tourists (and A-listers from Leonardo DiCaprio to Kim Kardashian) each year.

There are also animal “sanctuary” tourist traps aplenty. Over the years, these so-called parks and sanctuaries have earned a bad rap — and for good reason. Continued … 

Tracing Buddhism’s journey To Thailand

The voyage of Buddhism from its origin in India to its eventual adoption in Thailand, with a crucial stopover in Sri Lanka, is a narrative that traverses continents and centuries. The flow of Buddhist teachings across Asia is one of the most profound movements in the history of religion and its migration to an important base in Thailand is worth noting.

The journey begins in the 6th century BCE in northeastern India with the birth of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who would later become known as the Buddha. The prince renounced his royal life in pursuit of the truth of human existence, which led to his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. Thereafter, he spent his life teaching the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, forming the foundational philosophy of Buddhism. Continued …

Ladchado’s spectacular candle festival

In the quaint backwater community of Ladchado, nestled in the tranquil embrace of Ayutthaya’s Phak Hai district, a humble yet awe-inspiring celebration is set to unfold on Tuesday, Aug. 1. Locals residents eagerly anticipate the annual Candle Festival, an age-old tradition steeped in deep-seated religious significance, marking the arrival of Buddhist Lent.

The Candle Festival holds a revered place in the hearts of Buddhists, marking two pivotal moments in the Buddhist calendar: Asalha Bucha and Khao Phansa. In this cherished tradition, Thai Buddhists offer candles to the temple, illuminating the three-month retreat of the Buddhist Lent. Continued …

Top 12 Fun Things to Do in Koh Samui

Already seen all of Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai? Fly to Koh Samui to explore the myriad wonders this hidden gem has to offer!

Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand and located off the kingdom’s east coast. Boasting pristine beaches, majestic waterfalls, and historic Buddhist temples, the island is a dream destination for avid travelers. Continued …

Climate change role in July heatwaves ‘overwhelming’, scientists say

Human-induced climate change has played an “absolutely overwhelming” role in the extreme heatwaves that have swept across North America, Europe and China this month, according to an assessment by scientists published on Tuesday. Continued … https://www.thaipbsworld.com/climate-change-role-in-july-heatwaves-overwhelming-scientists-say/

Florida ocean temperature topped 37.8°C, setting potential record

Shallow waters off south Florida topped 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) for several hours on Monday, potentially setting a new world record with temperatures more commonly associated with hot tubs. 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
baht, bangkok, climate change, hua hin, medical tourism, pattaya, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-July 24

  • Nakhon Pathom-Chumphon double-track rail route to start running from September/
  • Hua Hin Golf Festival Sunday, July 30/
  • Hua Hin army camp to host 21 Run July 30/
  • Winning party not welcome in any new alliance for PM/
  • Opinion: Silent Semi-Military Coup and the Normalization of Indirect Military Rule/
  • Why Thailand is an Ideal Retirement Destination/
  • Over 9,000 Karenni people have fled to Mae Hong Song from war in Myanmar/
  • Bangkok waste-segregation campaign saves 127.8 million baht in 5 months/
  • People Enjoy The Taste Of “Dog Food,” A Popular Menu/
  • Economy: Baht volatility expected to be temporary, analysts say/Thailand’s economy eyes rebound in 2023 buoyed by China’s booming influence/Thais are sinking deeply into debt/FTI launches recycling project for businesses/
  • Tourism: Approval of 24/7 Entertainment Venues in the U-Tapao Airport Area Only/For and against medical tourism in Thailand/’Zero-carbon’ app can transform Thai tourism, experts say/
  • Thailand Experience: 29 Best Thai Recipes/Thailand’s most popular islands… and why/Tha Tien: Old Bangkok at its very best/
  • International: Scientists warn worsening heatwaves jeopardize entire global food system/At least 15 killed, 19 missing in Indonesia ferry sinking/
  • 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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Nakhon Pathom-Chumphon double-track rail route to start running from September

The 400-kilometer-long double-track railway linking Bangkok’s neighboring Nakhon Pathom province to Chumphon in the south will be ready for test runs in September.

Tipanan Sirichana, deputy government spokesperson, said on Sunday that the railway, the construction of which was split into three phases, will be partially ready for test runs of the entire route in September. Continued …

Hua Hin army camp to host 21 Run July 30

The Thanarat Army Camp outside Hua Hin will host the 21 Run July 30.

The event will have runners competing over distances of 21 kilometers, 10 kilometers, and 5 kilometers.

There are early bird registration rates for April 24 – May 8: 21 km: 690 THB; 10 km: 590 THB; Fun run 5 km: 390 THB. More info and registration.

Winning party not welcome in any new alliance for PM

The eight-party alliance will meet on Tuesday to conclude whether the Move Forward Party (MFP) will still join them in forming the new government after other parties refused to support the coalition in a prime ministerial vote if MFP stays on.

Over the past couple of days, the Pheu Thai Party (PT), which is leading efforts to cobble together a government after MFP failed in its bid to get its own leader elected to the post, has asked parties for their support during the second vote planned for Thursday. Continued …

Silent Semi-Military Coup and the Normalization of Indirect Military Rule

What happened on July 13, and again on the past Wednesday, July 19, was nothing short of a silent semi-military coup, which succeeded in twice rejecting and removing Move Forward Party PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat from the PM race. It now will most likely succeed in pushing the party, which won the most seats in the general election, into the opposition camp and possibly more.

No tanks have patrolled the streets of Bangkok over the past week, as it was not needed unlike in the conventional military coup. There was no announcement by any coup leader on television. And there was no summoning of opponents of the silent putsch to be detained for “attitude adjustment.” Continued …

Why Thailand is an Ideal Retirement Destination

Retirement is a time to relax, unwind, and embark on new adventures. If you’re considering retiring to a tropical paradise, look no further than Thailand. With its stunning natural beauty, warm hospitality, and affordable cost of living, Thailand offers a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural experiences, and opportunities for personal growth.

In this article, we will explore why Thailand is an ideal retirement destination, focusing on the abundance of business ideas and the thriving beauty and wellness industry. Get ready to discover why retiring in Thailand can be a dream come true. Continued …

Over 9,000 Karenni people have fled to Mae Hong Song from war in Myanmar

The Mae Hong Son provincial administration is taking care of more than 9,000 Karenni people who have fled an intensifying bombing campaign targeting Karenni Army bases and villages in Myanmar’s Kayah State.

Chettha Mosikarat, governor of the northern province, said 9,064 Karenni people have fled across the border from Kayah State to Mae Hong Son to take refuge in five areas since the fighting escalated in early June. Continued …

Bangkok waste-segregation campaign saves 127.8 million baht in 5 months

The recent waste-segregation campaign aimed at advocating for the proper segregation of household rubbish seems to be reaping rewards in Thailand, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).

Aekvarunyoo Amarapala, a spokesperson for the BMA, revealed over the weekend that the last five months saw a considerable decrease in both the amount of garbage making its way to the city’s waste-management facilities and the expenses related to waste processing. Continued … 

People Enjoy The Taste Of “Dog Food,” A Popular Menu

A menu with the most unusual name, “Dog Food Menu,” has become a viral sensation on the Internet. The original restaurant named Auntie Oi is located in the heart of Nakhon Sawan province, in a commercial building near Nakhon Sawan School.

Ananya Phinthong, or Auntie Oi, 60, the cook and owner of the restaurant, said the dog food menu came about unintentionally. This is because her eatery is located near the provincial school, and in the early evening, boarders come in, hungry and wanting to order fried rice. However, it is close to closing time, so the restaurant’s ingredients at that time are only rice and a few packets of instant noodles. Continued …

Baht volatility expected to be temporary, analysts say

The baht reached a two-month high of 34.04 to the U.S. dollar last week before falling to 34.40 against the greenback at the close of trade on Friday, making the baht the most volatile currency in the region last week.

Traders said the volatility was due to the domestic political situation, as the baht began falling after the second round of voting for a new Thai prime minister failed to select one. Continued …

Thailand’s economy eyes rebound in 2023 buoyed by China’s booming influence

A light of hope has started to shine on the future of Thailand’s economy as we look forward to this year, and China’s influence as a significant driving force cannot be ignored, so suggests a leading Thai economist.

The said economist, Kirida Bhaopichitr, director for the Economic Intelligence Service at the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), highlighted this perspective in a recent interchange with the state news agency of China, Xinhua. Continued …

Thais are sinking deeply into debt

Thai people are burdened with high household debt. For many of them, the burden starts early and can last a lifetime. Some young adults, in particular, have racked up massive credit card debt and do not have the ability to pay it off.

The Thai workforce is also struggling with rising debt, with their debt levels this year the highest in the past 14 years. Worse still, many older adults are retiring buried in debt and carrying a great amount of it. Continued …

FTI launches recycling project for businesses

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has joined forces with two state agencies to work on a project to turn industrial and agricultural waste into raw materials or new products in a fresh move to reduce waste under the circular economy concept.

The cooperation aims to help Thailand better manage rising levels of waste, said Sukit Limpijumnong, president of the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), which signed a memorandum of understanding on the project with the FTI and the Department of Industrial Works. Continued …

Approval of 24/7 Entertainment Venues in the U-Tapao Airport Area Only

The Thai Cabinet has approved a proposal to allow entertainment venues to operate 24 hours a day only in the U-Tapao International Airport area to boost tourism.

Thai officials and entertainment association representatives have since clarified after the original proposal appeared to cover Pattaya, as well, that this is not, for now, the case. Continued …

For and against medical tourism in Thailand

“Why go for tuk-tuk-level care when there’s a medical Mercedes up the road for just a bit more?” The words of wisdom come from one of the many Australians who have traveled to Thailand for medical and wellness treatments.

The industry is flourishing, with Thailand welcoming around four million medical tourists a year (medical travelers might be the more responsible term). Florida-based International Healthcare Research Center (IHRC) rates Thailand as the fifth-best country, out of 46 international destinations, for medical travel. Continued …

‘Zero-carbon’ app can transform Thai tourism, experts say

Thailand’s goal of becoming a carbon-neutral tourism destination is getting closer to reality with the “zero-carbon” application released earlier this month, officials say.

The mobile app, which was developed by a team of public and private organizations, elevates sustainable tourism by enabling businesses, communities, and tourists to calculate their own carbon emissions, said Supavadee Botiyaraj, chair of the tourism and creative economy planning subcommittee of the National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office. Continued …

29 Best Thai Recipes

Everybody loves to get takeout, and Thai food is right up there with the most desirable options. The cuisine, as a whole, is dominated by herbal flavors and ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, makrut lime leaves, ginger, and garlic, along with spicy elements from Thai chili peppers.

You’ll notice a lot of stir-fries (like pad Thai and drunken noodles), along with warming curries that will leave your belly full and your taste buds happy. Although Thai food often revolves around savory ingredients, you’ll also find sweet staples like mango sticky rice and refreshing Thai iced tea embraced within the cuisine. Continued …

Thailand’s most popular islands… and why

Thailand’s 1,430 islands laze around its Andaman and Gulf coasts like lizards in the sun. Most still slumber but a few have awoken, surprised to find themselves transformed into shopping malls with sand.

Koh, or Ko, is the Thai word for island. If you’re looking for resorts, spas and beach bars, consider these popular koh, in alphabetical order. Continued …

Tha Tien: Old Bangkok at its very best

One of the oldest markets in Thailand’s capital, Tha Tien is a must-visit tourist destination, thanks to its location in the old town, a rich historical background, and the diverse cultures of Thai citizens of various backgrounds.

But this historical quarter is not just recommended for foreign visitors but also for Thai locals and expatriates who will be fascinated by the multifaceted charms it has to offer. Continued …

Scientists warn worsening heatwaves jeopardize entire global food system

Climate scientists warned Friday that worsening atmospheric and marine heatwaves threaten food security around the world. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has made clear that heatwaves will increase in frequency, duration, and intensity with each additional degree of temperature rise. Continued …

At least 15 killed, 19 missing in Indonesia ferry sinking

At least 15 people were killed and 19 more were missing today after a ferry sank off the coast of Indonesia’s Sulawesi island, search and rescue officials said. 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
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590