Category Archives: thai environment

covid, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s News-Feb 9

  • Pranburi Half-Marathon Sunday/
  • Seven social trends shaping Thai business in 2023/
  • Thailand is promoting its green transformation to US investors/
  • Family of five – including three month old infant – found shot and stabbed to death/
  • Nestle to buy renewable energy from EGAT/
  • Tourism: 16 Thai festivals to be promoted on global stage/Chiang Rai Balloon Festival canned, but not balloon rides/Chinese tourists flood Mae Klong for ‘Amazing World Class’ experience/Swedish ‘plogging’ trend reaches Koh Lanta/Many Foreigners in Phuket Allegedly Renting Cars To Provide Illegal Taxi Services/Thailand says it can’t police V IP escort packages/
  • Thailand Experience: A Guide to Finding the Best Bites on the Streets: Thailand Street Food Hotspots/
  • Covid: Covid cases drop another 30%, only 4% of Chinese arrivals test positive/
  • International: More survivors found as quake toll tops 11,200/Singapore remains the most liveable location in the world/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Pranburi Half-Marathon Sunday

Seven social trends shaping Thai business in 2023

As businesses face the reality of a global economic slowdown, observers are increasingly optimistic about Thailand’s path forward in 2023, as local companies remain durable and resilient – focusing on performance following three years of tremendous transformation.

Thailand’s Ministry of Finance recently forecast up to 3.8% economic growth in 2023, bolstered by an improved tourism sector and domestic demand. This improvement will also be seen in digital spaces, with nearly 60% of worldwide social users set to be based in Asia-Pacific this year.

With an increasingly competitive digital landscape, the potential to connect with customers where they are is crucial; and it will be platforms, creators, friends, and families that drive the discovery and evaluation of local brand products and services. Continued …

Thailand is promoting its green transformation to US investors

The Board of Investment (BOI) is promoting Thailand’s potential in the green economy to attract U.S. investors, BOI Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said on Wednesday.

He noted that the board’s first two roadshows this year were held in Seattle and San Francisco last month.

They focused on Thailand’s policy of increasing the use of renewable energy in the industrial sector by 50%, as well as the country’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, Narit Therdsteerasukdi said. Continued …

Family of five – including three month-old infant – found shot and stabbed to death

A family of five Hmong people, including three children, were found dead on a farm in Wang Chao district of Thailand’s western border province of Tak on Wednesday.

Police who rushed to the scene in Village 11 in Chiang Thong subdistrict, after being alerted by the victims’ relatives, said that the five bodies appeared to have bullet and knife wounds, adding that the victims are believed to be members of the same family, including the parents and their three children, aged three months, seven and 10.

The motive for the massacre is currently unknown, say the police. Continued …

Nestle to buy renewable energy from EGAT

Nestle (Thai), a consumer goods manufacturer and marketer, plans to focus more on clean energy for its operations, working with the state-run Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) as its trade and energy partner.

Nestle, EGAT and Innopower Co., an energy innovation firm, signed an agreement to make full use of renewable power under the second phase of the ERC sandbox, overseen by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

Innopower is a subsidiary of Ratch Group Plc and Electricity Generating Plc, both subsidiaries of EGAT. Continued …

16 Thai festivals to be promoted on global stage

In an effort to promote the country’s cultural traditions and generate more revenue for communities, the Culture Ministry has chosen 16 Thai festivals to be promoted internationally, ministry Permanent Secretary Yupha Taweewattanakitborvon said on Wednesday.

She said that in alignment with the bio-circular-green economic model, the ministry has been trying to promote Thai soft power at the international level, particularly in the “5F” industries – food, films, fashion, fighting, and festivals.

The selected festivals include Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Festival (Pattani province), Ban Chiang World Heritage Festival (Uthai Thani), Korat Street Art (Nakhon Ratchasima), Hae Malai Khao Tok Festival (Yasothon), and Phuket Food Festival (Phuket). Continued …

Chiang Rai Balloon Festival canned, but not balloon rides

Chiang Rai’s annual International Balloon Fiesta has been canceled again this year, but that won’t stop Valentine’s couples from taking their love sky-high over Singha Park Chiang Rai. The Muang district attraction will still be hosting a Valentine’s Day event for couples from Feb. 12-15. The highlight will be romantic balloon rides for a bird’s eye view of Singh Park and Chiang Rai city. Before the pandemic, the International Balloon Fiesta was a major annual attraction during the week of Valentine’s Day in the northern province. The international balloon extravaganza is expected to be refloated when tourism recovers and international arrivals increase. (The Nation)

Chinese tourists flood Mae Klong for ‘Amazing World Class’ experience

Thailand is one of 20 countries that Chinese on group tours are allowed to visit. A group of 40 arrived on Spring Airlines to Don Muang airport while 90 independent travelers were welcomed, too.

Yesterday, the tourists were at the Mae Klong station waiting for a photo-opportunity of a train coming into the station through the Rum Hup market.

It was packed as the train crept through the crowded area. Continued …

Swedish ‘plogging’ trend reaches Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta – an island along Thailand‘s Andaman coast – saw its first ever plogging event last week, according to the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok.

There’s nothing worse than a beautiful landscape spoiled by plastic waste and debris. A movement in Sweden has come up with a solution.

Plogging is an activity that combines jogging with picking up litter. Continued …

Many Foreigners in Phuket Allegedly Renting Cars To Provide Illegal Taxi Services

Phuket officials are investigating after they have received many complaints that many foreigners are renting cars for doing illegal taxi services.

A team of officials from the Phuket Land Transport Office (Phuket PLTO) and the Phuket Provincial Employment Office yesterday set up a checkpoint at the Si Kor Intersection in Kathu, which many vehicles were heading up to the Patong Hill.

Phuket PLTO Chief Atcha Buajan said they have received many complaints that many foreigners in Phuket are renting cars and are being illegal taxi drivers. Continued …

Thailand says it can’t police V IP escort packages

Authorities say VIP escort packages on sale in China are difficult to police, as the transactions are made outside of Thailand.

Thailand might ask Beijing for cooperation, as happened with the crackdown on so-called zero-dollar tours in 2016.

Facebook page “Lui Chin”, which exposed the VIP escort sales on Chinese e-commerce sites last month, revealed this week that such packages are still available. Continued …

A Guide to Finding the Best Bites on the Streets: Thailand Street Food Hotspots

Thailand is a street food heaven, with endless options of tasty bites waiting to be discovered. From juicy grilled meats to savory noodles, street food in Thailand is a foodie’s dream. Get ready to explore the best street food hotspots across the land of smiles.

Chatuchak Market, Bangkok

This famous market is the largest outdoor market in the world, and it’s a must-visit destination for street food lovers. With over 15,000 stalls, Chatuchak Market offers a variety of food options, including Som Tum, a spicy papaya salad that will tantalize your taste buds, Pad Thai, the national dish of Thailand made with stir-fried noodles, juicy grilled skewers, savory Tom Yum Soup, and much more.

Come hungry, as the market is a feast for the senses and you won’t be able to resist the tempting aromas and flavors. Continued …

Covid cases drop another 30%, only 4% of Chinese arrivals test positive

The Covid-19 situation in Thailand is showing steady improvement, with a decline of 30% in hospital admissions and fatalities. According to the Department of Disease Control, the average number of hospital admissions and deaths fell to 90 and six, respectively, between Jan. 15-21.

Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, the director-general of the DDC, stated that 627 Covid-19 patients were admitted to hospitals last week, with an average of 90 cases per day. Of these cases, 277 were suffering from lung infections, with 179 requiring ventilators.

Over the past week, the death toll has decreased to 44, which represents an average of six cases a day, and a fall of 32.3% compared to the previous week. This year, there have been 2,593 hospital admissions and 167 deaths. Continued …

More survivors found as quake toll tops 11,200

Searchers were still pulling survivors on Wednesday from the rubble of the earthquake that killed over 11,200 people in Turkey and Syria, even as the window for rescues narrowed. Continued …

Singapore remains the most liveable location in the world

Singapore remains the most liveable location in the world for expatriates from East Asia, with an improved livability score in the past year, as revealed by the latest location ratings survey published by global mobility expert ECA International. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Feb 8

  • Train track work to close Soi 88 and Soi 70/
  • Long-boat racing returns to Khao Tao lake in November/
  • Thailand’s Valentine’s Day spending expected to jump for first time in 5 years/
  • Pet ownership in Thailand becoming more popular/
  • RTP officers must wear bodycam at all times at checkpoints/
  • A guide to traversing Bangkok’s massive new rail station/
  • 19-month-old girl, trapped in groundwater well for over 17 hours, rescued/
  • Video: Bottom trawling destroying Thailand’s fishing industry/
  • Huawei aims to groom 20,000 Thai IT developers in three years/
  • GULF, AIS, and SINGTEL to launch data center/
  • New law allows foreign talent to thrive in Thailand/
  • Tourism: Tour Operator Fined 500,000 Baht for Attack on Chinese Tourist/Thailand’s first ever seaplane airline to launch this summer/
  • Thailand Experience: The best new cafes in Bangkok right now/
  • Covid: No new variants in weeks after China ended zero-Covid: study/
  • International: Rescuers work against time as Turkey-Syria quake death toll passes 7,800/WHO: Turkey, Syria quake could affect up to 23M/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Train track work to close Soi 88 and Soi 70

Construction work for the new dual track train line will force the closure of Soi 88 today and Friday from 9pm-4am, and Soi 70 will be closed on Feb 13, 14and 16 from 9pm-4am.

Long-boat racing returns to Khao Tao lake in November

Traditional long-boat racing returns to Hua Hin in November Nov. 17-19 at Khao Tao Reservoir. Six different categories of boats are anticipated.

Long-boat racing events in Thailand date back hundreds of years and were originally held as a celebration of the bond between local communities and rivers throughout the country.

Other activities being planned include a music award for youths under 22 years old for music related to Thai long boat races. performances from the local ethnic group “Thai Song Dam”, and a food market with other tourism promotion activities or booths.

Thailand’s Valentine’s Day spending expected to jump for first time in 5 years

Thailand’s Valentine’s Day spending is expected to jump for the first time in five years this year, according to a survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Spending is expected to hit over 2.4 billion baht this year, the survey said.

The survey shows a 57.1% increase in spending compared to last year, with the majority of the money being spent on gifts, dining out, flowers, and movies. UTCC President Thanavath Phonvichai stated that this year’s spending is predicted to be active despite a relatively high cost of living and recent holiday spending.

The study, based on a survey of 1,225 people nationwide, showed that spending is expected to average 1,848 baht per person, compared to 1,176 baht last year. Continued …

Pet ownership in Thailand becoming more popular

Owning pets for Thai people has been found to be increasingly popular, according to data from Euromonitor. Data. The site has indicated that the number of Thais who count pets as family members has increased by 3% from 2019 to 2022. The number is expected to continue to rise as more Thais take a liking to pets.

In 2019, around 34% of Thai households had dogs or cats, with that number increasing to 37% in 2022. Part of the increase in pet ownership is attributed to the Covid pandemic. Those who worked from home or were self-quarantining at home took a liking to pets to help them stay relaxed.

The data is indicative of the wants and needs of Thais’ residential living, providing a clue for housing developers to allow pets in the future. The trend of Gen Z, Gen Y, and the elderly population who prefer having animals as companions is on the upswing. Continued …

RTP officers must wear bodycam at all times at checkpoints

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) have tightened checkpoint regulations in a bid to stamp out cop corruption amid the Taiwanese actress scandal. RTP officers have been ordered to be courteous and professional and to wear body cameras while working at checkpoints in the future.

The commissioner of the RTP, Damrongsak Kittipraphat, held an online conference with police officers across the country yesterday to emphasize the necessary rules and procedures to be followed while on duty at checkpoints.

In response to the money extortion scandal exposed by a Taiwanese actress, Damrongsak said to capture all incidents and provide evidence at checkpoints, every officer on duty must wear a body camera at all times. Continued …

A guide to traversing Bangkok’s massive new rail station

While many Bangkok residents never stray far from their tight orbits around Sathorn, Thonglor, or Lat Phrao, millions of travelers will eventually make their way through the capital’s monumental new rail hub to reach all parts of the kingdom and, one day, beyond.

Those trying their luck now with Bangkok’s massive new public transit cathedral known as the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, aka Bang Sue Grand Station, would be wise to download a helpful guide to their phones for use in navigating its confusing immensity.

The author of the guide is Richard Barrow. The latest addition to the Barrow Expanded Universe is a 30-page PDF breaking down the what, where, and how of the station’s quarter-million square meters. Continued … 

19-month-old girl, trapped in groundwater well for over 17 hours, rescued

Rescuers have successfully pulled a 19-month-old Myanmar girl from a 15-meter deep groundwater hole, where she had been trapped for over 17 hours.

Cheers of joy erupted when the child, helped by rescuers, emerged from the hole, was put on a stretcher and rushed to Phop Phra District Hospital for assessment and treatment.

The rescue team reached the girl at about 8am yesterday morning, but they could not immediately pull her out because she appeared to have suffered leg injuries in the fall. Continued …

Video: Bottom trawling destroying Thailand’s fishing industry

Ocean bottom trawling is destroying our marine ecosystems and damaging future food security for Thailand. The Environmental Justice Foundation is calling for its end. Report 

Video 

Huawei aims to groom 20,000 Thai IT developers in three years

Huawei Technologies (Thailand) will focus on grooming at least 20,000 talents and developers in Thailand within three years as part of its sustainable growth strategy.

The announcement came as David Li, the company’s newly appointed CEO, unveiled Huawei’s six core business directions for Thailand in 2023 at a media briefing on Tuesday.

Huawei’s goal is to contribute social values and cultivate local digital talents in addition to achieving business success, he said, adding Huawei Thailand will place strong emphasis on developing information and communications technology (ICT) personnel in Thailand, with the goal of grooming 20,000 developers in three years. Continued … 

GULF, AIS, and SINGTEL to launch data center

A joint partnership between Gulf Energy, Singtel, and AIS will see the construction of a new 20+ MW data center, the operators said on Wednesday.

A new company, GSA Data Center Co. (GSA), has been created as a joint venture between the three companies to run the data center.

According to a statement, the data center will be a best-in-class hyperconnected data center and will serve the greater demands of enterprises and cloud service providers in Thailand and the region. The data center is scheduled to begin commercial operations in 2025. Continued … 

 

New law allows foreign talent to thrive in Thailand

The government of Thailand has taken a step forward in attracting highly skilled foreign workers to the country, with the release of a new law that allows foreigners to work or invest in 18 select industries.

The Royal Thai Gazette website published a notice from the Ministry of Interior outlining the special permit for migrant workers, signed by Prime Minister Prayuth Cha-o-cha and Interior Minister Anupong Paochinda on Feb. 3.

This new law is an opportunity for skilled specialists, investors, executives, and entrepreneurs to make their mark in Thailand and a sign that the Thai government is open to foreign investment and willing to support the growth of the economy. Continued … 

Tour Operator Fined 500,000 Baht for Attack on Chinese Tourist

Phuket’s governor, officials and representatives from the tourism sector met Li Chenglong, counselor director of China’s Phuket consular office to apologize for a tour agent’s attack on a Chinese tourist.

Both sides discussed the Feb. 1 incident when a woman at a Thai tour company in Karon subdistrict kicked a Chinese customer and inflicted a cut on his arm with a small knife during their argument over the 5,000- baht refund the client demanded for a trip to Similan Island he and his family missed because the tour firm had failed to pick them up at the meeting point.

Phuket Gov. Narong Woonciew reported the penalty given to the culprit for criminal offense and violation of the Tourism Business Act. The tour operator was fined 500,000 baht and the firm has been suspended from business for six months. Continued …

Thailand’s first ever seaplane airline to launch this summer

Thailand‘s first-ever seaplane airline, Siam Seaplane, is preparing to launch this summer to take the kingdom’s tourism industry to the next level.

Siam Seaplane has formed partnerships with 60 luxury hotels and resorts, including top brands Intercontinental and Four Seasons.

Chief Business Operator Dennis Keller revealed that the company faced plenty of setbacks during the pandemic, but is now working on securing over 40 landing sites around Thailand. Continued …

The best new cafes in Bangkok right now

When life gives you lemons, trade them for coffee. A morning cup of joe helps you jump start the day, and it’s always fun to find a new favorite cafe in town to grab one from. Here are the best new cafes in Bangkok right now.

Imagine: the aroma of ground coffee beans as you walk in, the relaxing, calming vibe as you take a sip of your drink of choice, the crisp, tangy taste of the pastry that comes with your cup. A good cafe lets you forget all your problems even for just a moment. Bangkok won’t have any shortage soon when it comes to good cafes, so let us show you the new places to update your bucket list.

Dosan Dalmatian

Ever-popular Siam Square has a new cafe to add to its arsenal. All the way from Seoul to Bangkok, Dosan Dalmatian is proud to present good coffees and teas, three stories of Instagrammable corners, and a pet-friendly welcome to man’s best friends. Continued …

No new variants in weeks after China ended zero-Covid: study

No new variants of Covid-19 emerged in Beijing in the weeks after China ended its zero-Covid policy late last year, a new study said on Wednesday.

China saw an explosion of infections after starting to lift its strict pandemic measures from early December, sparking fears the world’s most populous country could become a fertile breeding ground for new, more transmissible or severe strains.

More than a dozen countries promptly imposed fresh restrictions on travelers from China, also citing a lack of transparency about the scale of the outbreak, sparking Beijing’s ire. Continued …

Rescuers work against time as Turkey-Syria quake death toll passes 7,800

Rescuers worked against time in harsh winter conditions on Tuesday evening, trying to dig people out of the rubble of collapsed buildings as the death toll from Turkey and Syria’s devastating earthquake jumped to more than 7,900.

Turkish authorities say some 13.5 million people were affected in an area spanning roughly 450 km (280 miles) from Adana in the west to Diyarbakir in the east, and 300 km from Malatya in the north to Hatay in the south.

Syrian authorities have reported deaths as far south as Hama, some 250 km from the epicenter. Continued … 

WHO: Turkey, Syria quake could affect up to 23M

Up to 23 million people could be affected by the massive earthquake that has killed thousands in Turkey and Syria, the WHO warned on Tuesday, promising long-term assistance. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Feb 6

  • TAT Prachuap eager to build links with expat community/
  • Hot weather forecast as February ends/
  • Yoga on the beach/
  • PM2.5 dangers – guidelines issued by the ministry of education/
  • Chiang Mai struggles with dangerous PM2.5 readings for 5 days/
  • World record performance set tonight at Rajabhakti Park/
  • Bangkok is still sinking, and fast!/
  • Pitfalls of making a will in Thailand/
  • Thailand Open champ: China’s Zhu Lin/
  • Bangkok set to get 40 to 50 new pocket parks this year
  • Bryde’s whales return to marine park off Surat Thani/
  • Tourism: American tourists spend more money than Europeans in Thailand/Chinese tour groups to start arriving in Thailand today/Opinion: The Labyrinth That Is Corruption in Thailand/Mice scurry back to Thailand/Vendors decry BMA push to clean up pavements/It’s back to party mode in Koh Pha-ngan/Russian airline aborts takeoff after engine explodes on runway at Phuket Airport/Fifth round of subsidies for domestic tourism begins next month/Customs not inspecting tourists’ personal items/
  • Thailand Experience: Elephant Freedom Project Offers Unique, Ethical Elephant Tourism Experience in Chiang Mai/The only Phuket travel guide you will need to plan your Thai vacation/
  • Covid: No point in counting Covid cases anymore as virus is here to stay/Leisure/entertainment activities are not biggest source of Covid infection/
  • International: Massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake knocks down buildings in Turkey, Syria/Global food prices down for 10th consecutive month in January/Fierce battles in Bakhmut as Russian missiles hit Kharkiv/20% More To Be Paid for Solar Power from Japan Businesses’ Rooftops/US military shoots down Chinese spy balloon/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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TAT Prachuap eager to build links with expat community

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) says it is eager to grow the relationship it has with the expatriate community in Hua Hin and throughout Prachuap Khiri Khan.

According to Achawan Kongkanan, director of the TAT Prachuap office, tourism officials pay close attention to the local expat community.

However, he wants to strengthen ties between the regional TAT office and foreigners who live in the area long term. Continued …

Hot weather forecast as February ends

Thailand’s dry season is forecast to begin at the end of February, 1-2 weeks later than normal, but average temperatures will be higher than last year, reaching 40-43°C in some areas from mid-March to mid-April.

According to the Thai Meteorological Department, the average maximum temperature this summer is forecast to be at 35.5°C in the north of the country, which is close to normal, but higher than last year’s 34°C.

Thailand’s north and northeast will be cool in the mornings, from the end of February to mid-March, but hot during the day time. Temperatures could reach 43°C in some areas, which will result in summer storms from mid-March to mid-April. Continued …

Yoga on the beach

More than 100 people took part in the Hua Hin Yoga Festival on Saturday in front of the Verso Hotel in Khao Takiab. The event will be held every Saturday throughout February starting at 5pm and is open to everyone. Feb. 8, 11, and 25 are the next events. (HHT)

PM2.5 dangers – guidelines issued by the ministry of education

As Thailand continues to grapple with the ongoing air pollution crisis, officials have provided guidelines for students and school staff to protect themselves from PM2.5.

The guidelines include: avoiding outdoor activities for extended periods, wearing face masks when outdoors, wearing long-sleeved shirts, taking showers or washing skin after exposure to polluted air, using air purifiers with high-efficiency particulate air filters, seeking medical attention for respiratory symptoms or skin irritation, and generally maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

PM2.5, fine dust particles in the air, pose serious health risks, particularly to young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic lung disease. Continued …

Chiang Mai struggles with dangerous PM2.5 readings for 5 days

Fine dust levels in the northern city of Chiang Mai have risen beyond safe levels for five consecutive days, the provincial authorities announced on Sunday.

Chiang Mai Gov. Nirat Pongsitthavorn said the concentration of PM2.5 particulate matter had risen beyond the safe level of 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air (μg/m3) mainly due to forest fires.

The Air4Thai app operated by the Pollution Control Department reported that the air quality in Chiang Mai Muang district’s Sri Phum area came in at 73μg/m3 on Sunday morning. Air quality in Hot district’s Hang Dong area measured at 90μg/m3. Continued …

World record performance set tonight at Rajabhakti Park

The final dress rehearsal of the the world’s largest performance of the Wai Kru at Rajabhakti Park was held yesterday. Tonight, 5,000 fighters will demonstrate the Wai Kru as part of an official Guinness World Record attempt. The ceremony istarts at 6pm. (HHT)

Bangkok is still sinking, and fast!

Getting Bangkok ready for the consequences of climate change is crucial for saving this megacity from being submerged under rising sea levels, climate experts say. Continued …

Pitfalls of making a will in Thailand

While it is sometimes possible to obtain court probate without a will, that can be a difficult process for foreigners in particular. Their next-of-kin relatives might well be living thousands of miles from Thailand and dying intestate can create legal pitfalls and dangers of several kinds.

Should a will be in the Thai language?

Yes. A popular practice these days is to draw up a will in Thai with an English translation for convenience. But it is the Thai version that the probate court will accept.

The will should name an executor (responsible for carry out the terms) and be witnessed by at least two witnesses. Witnesses cannot be otherwise mentioned in the will. Continued …

Thailand Open champ: China’s Zhu Lin

China’s Zhu Lin was crowned the 2023 Thailand Open presented by E@ champion with her victory Sunday over Ukraine’s Lesia Tsurenko at Hua Hin’s True Arena. The WTA 250 title is the first of Zhu’s career. – HHT

Bangkok set to get 40 to 50 new pocket parks this year

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will this year open 40 to 50 small public parks that will be just 15 minutes away for most communities.

A BMA source, who asked not to be named, said on Sunday that the city administration was taking steps to set up the parks in line with Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt’s election promise.

Chadchart had promised to turn small unused plots in Bangkok into parks for locals to escape the heat and to exercise. Continued …

Bryde’s whales return to marine park off Surat Thani

Three Bryde’s whales were seen frolicking in a marine national park off the coast of Surat Thani province on Friday, but park officials were only able to identify two of them by name. They identified “Wandee” and “Wanrung” in the database of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources. Staff have been instructed to monitor the Bryde’s whale population since two were spotted in Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park on Feb. 1. (The Nation)

American tourists spend more money than Europeans in Thailand

Americans spend an average of 96,269 baht (US$2,887) per person while traveling in Thailand, higher than European visitors, who spend $2,684, a survey shows.

U.S. tourists spend an average of 2,000-3,000 baht on accommodation a night and they always stay in the country up to 15 days per trip, according to the survey conducted by the Tourism Council of Thailand, which polled 200 Western tourists during the final quarter of last year.

The survey also showed that European tourists spend 1,000-2,000 baht per night on accommodations and stay in Thailand for 13 days on average. Continued …

Chinese tour groups to start arriving in Thailand today

Thailand is ready to welcome Chinese package tourists who will start arriving from today now that Beijing has lifted travel restrictions, a government spokesperson said.

In preparation for the influx, Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is coordinating with the Tourism and Sports Ministry and the Transport Ministry to put all necessary measures in place for welcoming tour groups from China, deputy government spokesperson Traisulee Trisaranakul said.

She added that public and private agencies have estimated that the return of tour groups from China would be gradual because tour agencies have been on hold for three years during the pandemic. Continued … 

The Labyrinth That Is Corruption in Thailand

Police extortion is getting out of control, flaunting the justice system like never before – or was it?

Imagine if Taiwanese actress Charlene An did not have the mettle and social media followers to expose seven Thai policemen at a Huay Kwang checkpoint in Bangkok of extorting her and her three friends 27,000 baht on Jan. 4 for possession of three e-cigarettes and not carrying passport, then we would not have known about such disgraceful and corrupt behavior by these supposed “law enforcers.”

One wonders how many more cases went unreported over the months and years simply because the foreign victims were not famous or too afraid to speak out. Continued …

Mice scurry back to Thailand

Tourism has flourished since Thailand fully reopened in the second half of last year.

For business travel, the sector known as MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) saw a big leap after Thailand hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Bangkok, with many hotels getting a boost from this segment.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and Phuket have been running the bidding process for Specialized Expo 2028, with the aim of driving the economy of the island tourist site through collaboration between the private and public sectors. Continued … 

Vendors decry BMA push to clean up pavements

Authorities have been working on making the city’s sidewalks more pedestrian-friendly since Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt took office last year, as it was one of the 216 pledges he had made a month before he was elected.

The move was made possible following an administrative reorganization in December last year, which saw 19 municipal heads asked to clean up several districts across the capital.

“When a new (municipal head) arrives, they bring a fresh perspective to the problem. When I went along the Sukhumvit area, I could see it was much better already. Continued …

It’s back to party mode in Koh Pha-ngan

Koh Pha-ngan’s second full moon party after the pandemic was a resounding success, with more than 20,000 revelers showing up.

The Sunday event at Rin Beach featured concerts, fire shows and free-flowing booze, though police and security officials were at hand to ensure everybody’s safety.

Wijarn Chunthwichit, the district chief, said most tourists had traveled from Surat Thani’s other islands like Koh Samui and Koh Tao to attend the event. Continued …

Russian airline aborts takeoff after engine explodes on runway at Phuket Airport

Video on Youtube shows fire coming from the underside of a passenger plane during takeoff from Phuket International Airport.

It was Azurair Flight number ZF 3604 bound for Moscow at 5 pm on Saturday.

The flight was aborted after an engine on the right side of the aircraft exploded. The pilot was alerted to smoke by air traffic control. Continued …

Fifth round of subsidies for domestic tourism begins next month

The timeline for the fifth phase of the government’s domestic-tourism promotion campaign – which provides subsidies to hoteliers and tourists to encourage travel – will run from early March until the end of April, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced on Friday.

The fifth phase of the “We Travel Together” campaign received Cabinet approval on Tuesday with a budget of 2.016 billion baht.

The government provides subsidies equivalent to 40% of room rates, capped at 3,600 baht per room per night, through the campaign. A total of 560,000 room subsidies will be available and each one will include a 600 baht voucher for tourists to buy food or services. Continued … 

Customs not inspecting tourists’ personal items

Customs Department Deputy Director-general Phantong Loykulnanta has emphasized customs officials will not conduct personal inspections of arriving foreign tourists at airports, even if they are carrying or wearing multi-million-baht personal items.

He said this policy aligns with the country’s reopening.

Phantong said it is the department’s policy to make life convenient for tourists and not burden them. Continued …

Elephant Freedom Project Offers Unique, Ethical Elephant Tourism Experience in Chiang Mai

The Elephant Freedom Project, a well-established elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, offers a unique and ethical elephant tourism experience for visitors to the region. The project allows guests to spend a day in these majestic creatures’ natural environment without using chains, hooks, or riding.

Guests can interact with the elephants, feed them, and learn about their behavior and habits. They can also learn about the Elephant Freedom Project’s conservation efforts to protect these magnificent animals. The project is based on the principle that elephants should be treated with respect and dignity and that tourism should be ethical and sustainable.

“While on a recent trip from Bangkok, we spent a day at the elephant sanctuary Chiang Mai at the Elephant Freedom Project. What a wonderful experience our family had. The staff was great, the transportation and tour were all very well organized, and we had a splendid time interacting with the elephants. A well-deserved five-star recommendation.” said Henry P. Continued … 

The only Phuket travel guide you will need to plan your Thai vacation

One of Thailand’s most loved and frequently explored travel destinations, Phuket, is the largest island in the country. Laden with white sand beaches, thriving nightlife, gastronomical adventures and a lot more, the list of places to visit in Phuket is endless.

Whether you’re on a backpacking trip or for leisure, Phuket has it all. Wondering how to outline your trip? Our Phuket travel guide comprises the list of stunning attractions to see, dishes to try and things to do for a picture-perfect vacation.

Having a tropical climate pattern, Phuket is primarily warm, rainy and pleasant often. However, it never gets too cold. The coldest season, with temperatures ranging between 23°C to 30°C, starts from November and continues until February. This is the best time to travel to Phuket. The sea is the calmest during this time. You can relax and enjoy your time at the beach without having to worry about the weather. Continued … 

No point in counting Covid cases anymore as virus is here to stay

Covid-19 is not going anywhere and will soon become another seasonal disease like influenza, Chulalongkorn University’s top virologist said on Monday.

Dr. Yong Poovorawan said there is no point in counting Covid-19 cases now, as the figure only represents a fraction of the true number of infections.

Over 70% of people globally, or around 5 billion, may have been infected with Covid-19, while the recorded figure is only 700 million Covid-19 cases, he said. Continued … 

Leisure/entertainment activities are not biggest source of Covid infection

The two biggest sources of Covid-19 infections are the workplace and public transport, an infectious disease expert revealed today.

Associate Prof. Dr. Thira Woratanarat from Chulalongkorn University cited a recent study in England and Wales that showed the two most common reasons for infections were leaving home for work (17%) and public transport (12%).

The study of 11,413 samples found that essential activities (work and public transport) carried the greatest risk and were the dominant contributors to infections, said Thira. Continued … 

Massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake knocks down buildings in Turkey, Syria

A 7.8 magnitude quake knocked down multiple buildings in southeast Turkey and Syria early Monday and many casualties are feared. In northwest Syria, the opposition’s Syrian Civil Defense described the situation in the rebel-held region as “disastrous”, adding that entire buildings have collapsed and people are trapped under the rubble. Continued …

Global food prices down for 10th consecutive month in January

Global food prices dropped for the 10th consecutive month in January, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) said on Friday. The latest index averaged 131.2 points in January, falling 0.8% since December. FAO reported small price decreases on its latest meat and sugar indices. Continued …

Fierce battles in Bakhmut as Russian missiles hit Kharkiv

Heavy fighting was underway Sunday in the northern parts of the front line hotspot Bakhmut, while Russian missile strikes on Ukraine’s second-largest city Kharkiv wounded five people. Continued …

20% More To Be Paid for Solar Power from Japan Businesses’ Rooftops

The Japan economy ministry plans to introduce a system in which electric power generated by solar panels on the roofs of company buildings, factories and warehouses will be purchased at 20% higher prices than power generated from panels on the ground. There are a limited number of places where solar panels can be installed, so the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry is aiming to encourage the proliferation of renewable energy sources through the use of roof space. Continued …

US military shoots down Chinese spy balloon

The US military shot down a suspected Chinese spy balloon over the Atlantic Ocean off the Eastern Seaboard of the United States yesterday according to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. President Joe Biden approved the operation, which resulted in a diplomatic fallout between Washington and Beijing. The balloon was first spotted in the sky over Montana earlier in the week and had traveled across the country before being shot down off the coast of South Carolina. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-Feb 4

  • Muay Thai festival events this weekend/
  • Today’s Thailand Open matches/
  • Hua Hin one of 30 Thai ‘Smart Cities’/
  • Commercial fishing banned 3 months off PKK, Surat Thani/
  • Bangkok disappearing under smog/
  • Confusion reigns over e-cigarette enforcement/
  • Thai Police Continue to Warn Vaping is Illegal/
  • THB24 billion for subsidies to boost domestic manufacture of EV batteries/
  • Ex-national parks chief ‘temporarily’ dismissed from government service/
  • Tourism: Digital ID now accepted to board domestic flights/85% of Hotel Rooms in South Booked Until Next Month/Bangkok’s New Chinatown bustling again as Chinese tourists return/2023: A vital year for tourism in Asia Pacific/Thai AirAsia adding back idled jets amid China tourism restart/
  • Thailand Experience: Thailand’s uber luxe eco resort Soneva Kiri/
  • International: Hong Kong to give away 500,000 free airline tickets/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Muay Thai festival events this weekend

Today’s Thailand Open matches

Hua Hin one of 30 Thai ‘Smart Cities’

Senior ministry officials were in Hua Hin recently to discuss the Hua Hin Smart City project. Hua Hin is among 30 cities in Thailand that will be transformed into “Smart Cities”, Chaiwut Thanakmanusorn, minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES), announced at the meeting.

A Smart City is defined as a city that takes advantage of modern and intelligent technology and innovation to increase the efficiency of service and city management.

The aim is to reduce the cost and resource utilization of the target city and population, with an emphasis on good design and the participation of business and people in urban development.

Commercial fishing banned 3 months off PKK, Surat Thani

The Department of Fisheries will close the southwestern part of the Gulf of Thailand for three months from large-scale commercial fishing this month, after finding a similar closure last year led to a 63% increase in mackerel in the area.

Chalermchai Suwanrak, chief of the department, revealed that the closure will ban large-scale fishing in the central section of the Gulf of Thailand in Prachuap Khiri, Chumphon and Surat Thani provinces.

The policy is part of the department’s marine resources management to allow time for mackerel to breed and nurture their young. The announcement was endorsed by the Chumphon and Surat Thani provinces. Continued …

Bangkok disappearing under smog

Bangkokians awoke to a shroud of fine dust this week with over 70 areas reporting levels of PM2.5 had breached 90 micrograms per cubic meter of air (μg/m3).

Thailand’s safety limit is 50 μg/m3. High levels of PM2.5 pose health risks, especially for people with chronic lung disease.

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts levels of PM2.5 – particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter – will rise across much of Thailand through Friday as the fine-dust pollution accumulates in stagnant air. Continued …

Confusion reigns over e-cigarette enforcement

A senior Thai cabinet minister called for the legalization of e-cigarettes on Friday following this week’s dramatic events linked with the damaging extortion case involving Taiwanese actress Charlene An or An Yu Qing.

Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiwut Thanakhamanusorn said a move to legalize the currently illicit activity would help to raise money for the government and eliminate a dangerous breeding ground for corruption. His view appears to contradict sentiments expressed by Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the Thai public health minister who controversially made cannabis legal in Thailand last year.

Anutin told a conference in August 2022 that e-cigarettes should remain prohibited as a threat to public health, despite being used regularly by over 80,000 Thai adults, many of them young while it is perfectly legal in most countries. Continued …

Thai Police Continue to Warn Vaping is Illegal

A Thai senior police officer from the Legal and Litigation Department said that anyone caught carrying e-cigarettes or vapes can be fined up to 500,000 baht and get a maximum jail term of five years.

Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiewphan, head of the department, said Wednesday that e-cigarettes, also known as vapes, are prohibited products, which cannot be imported into the Kingdom, according to the 2014 and 2016 directives of the Ministry of Commerce. The statements come after several high profile cases of alleged extortion have hit Thai news.

People with e-cigarettes in their possession, therefore, violate the law for accepting or owning prohibited products and can be fined up to 500,000 baht and/or get a jail term of up to five years in line with Section 246 and Section 244 of the 2017 Customs Act, said Trairong. Continued …

THB24 billion for subsidies to boost domestic manufacture of EV batteries

A budget of 24 billion baht has been set aside to subsidize domestic manufacturing of battery cells for electric vehicles (EVs), Energy Minister Supattanapong Punmeechaow said on Friday.

He said that the state subsidy was aimed at helping manufacturers cut their production costs, which would result in cheaper prices for EVs in the domestic market.

The subsidy is part of measures agreed upon by the National Electric Vehicle Policy Committee at its first meeting of the year. Among other measures is a reduction in excise tax for EV battery-makers, from 8% to 1%. Continued …

Ex-national parks chief ‘temporarily’ dismissed from government service

Embattled former national park chief Rutchada Suriyakul Na Ayutya was “temporarily dismissed” from government service yesterday, with immediate effect, after initial findings show there are grounds to support bribe-taking allegations against him.

Natural Resources and Environment Permanent Secretary Jatuporn Buruspat, who signed the dismissal order, said that the action is intended to ease pressure on and damage to the image of officials at the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and to ensure transparency.

Thalerngsak Petchsuwan, deputy permanent secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in his capacity as head of the disciplinary committee, said today that the panel had questioned about 50 people and most of them have given testimonies pointing in the same direction, namely that bribes have been paid to Rutchada, with a handful of them insisting that they paid money to Rutchada in return for images of King Chulalongkorn. Continued …

Digital ID now accepted to board domestic flights

Passengers are now allowed to use digital IDs to verify their identity when boarding domestic flights, a government spokesperson said on Friday.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has given the go-ahead for the use of digital ID following the rollout of the D.DOPA mobile application, said Traisulee Taisaranakul.

D.DOPA was developed by the Department of Provincial Administration (DPA) for registering a digital ID. It can be used on both the iOS and Android platforms. Continued … 

85% of Hotel Rooms in South Booked Until Next Month

The southern tourism situation has improved, with 85% of hotel rooms booked until next month, said the president of the Southern Hotel Assn.

Sueksit Suwandissakun, the president of the association, said, “Tourism in the southern part of Thailand is better than December last year. Room bookings are at 85 percent, which is more than we expected. Tourism has increased to levels at about the same as before Covid -19 in 2019. Many hotels are full in famous tourism areas. However, most of the room bookings are in three-star hotels and below.

“The booking rate this month is up to 80 percent; meanwhile, next month it is at 60 percent and even more booking is continuing . The limiting factor for tourism is that only 50 percent of flights are back to service when compared to 2019 (240 fights from 450 flights). Continued …

Bangkok’s New Chinatown bustling again as Chinese tourists return

Eateries, shops and street stalls in Bangkok’s New Chinatown area are once again bustling with customers after having been quiet for two years due to the pandemic.

The New Chinatown (not to be confused with the original Chinatown in Yaowarat area) stretches from Huai Khwang intersection to Pracha Uthit Road.

3.Most of the people spotted in the area this past week were Chinese nationals who had arrived to mark the Lunar New Year and decided to extend their vacation. Continued …

2023: A vital year for tourism in Asia Pacific

This year is shaping up as a big one for tourism in the Asia Pacific. Travel started recovering in 2022, with more and more countries throwing open their borders – and now China, with its zero-Covid policy left behind, is ready for Chinese group travel tours to start heading overseas from Feb. 6 to a handful of countries, including Thailand.

The travel and tourism outlook for Asia Pacific was recast in the evening of Dec. 26, 2022. The Chinese government decreed that, from Jan. 8, 2023, Chinese travelers would no longer need to undertake quarantine when re-entering China.

Few other details were released, but the announcement delivered what the travel industry had coveted for almost three years: the return of the world’s largest outbound market. Continued … 

Thai AirAsia adding back idled jets amid China tourism restart

Budget carrier Thai AirAsia plans to resume operations of eight aircraft that were idled during the pandemic and is considering shifting planes from other parts of the group to cater for the growing number of visitors from China.

Asia Aviation, the operator of Thailand’s biggest low-cost airline, also expects improved earnings growth with the resumption of more flights to Chinese cities, Chief Executive Officer Santisuk Klongchaiya said during an interview in Bangkok on Thursday.

“Our advance bookings have demonstrated strong earnings momentum”, Santisuk said. “We may find a big challenge to expand seat capacity with demand from Chinese travelers. But seat shortages are a problem we’re happy to deal with”. Thai AirAsia currently has 53 jets in its fleet, he said. Continued … 

Thailand’s uber luxe eco resort Soneva Kiri

Walking barefoot up the wooden pathway, it’s hard not to feel slightly Robinson Crusoe-esque. My partner admits he’s having more of a Lost Boys in Hook moment. But one thing is clear, this is unlike any place we’ve been before.

Soneva Kiri is Thailand’s uber luxe eco resort on the island of Koh Kood, one of the biggest, yet least developed islands in the country on the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Thailand.

Unlike Robinson Crusoe, who washed ashore to his far-flung paradise in heavy storms, we arrive by the resort’s private eight-seater plane on an 80-minute trip from Bangkok, landing on a tiny neighboring island. Continued … 

Hong Kong to give away 500,000 free airline tickets

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will distribute 500,000 free airline tickets to woo visitors “from every part of the world” to visit the financial hub in a bid to revive the battered economy and boost its global image. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, cha am, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-Feb 3

  • Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day/
  • Thailand to reduce the 50-micron PM2.5 safety standard to 37.5 microns/
  • Bangkok disappearing under smog/
  • Exposure to PM2.5 affects heart and can be fatal, study shows/
  • Diesel price to drop for first time in 7 months/
  • Here are the rules about vaping in Thailand/
  • Railway on track for completion this year/
    ‘Mink’ becomes first Thai to reach world No 1 in women’s snooker/
  • Murderer transports woman’s corpse to landfill site via motorbike/
  • Tourism: Six Bangkok policemen charged with extorting Taiwanese actress’s group/
  • Thailand Experience: Khao Yai’s top five things to do and see/A firsthand look at traditional Chinese medicine in Thailand/
  • International: Belgian couple ditch baby at airport after refusing to buy extra ticket/Google, Apple disappoint as tech earnings hit by gloom/Poland expects 40 nations to oppose Russian athletes at Olympics/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19.

The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online.

Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.

Thailand to reduce the 50-micron PM2.5 safety standard to 37.5 microns

Thailand will adjust the country’s standard safety level of air pollution from an average of 50 microns to 37.5 microns from June 1, with the hope that this will help the Pollution Control Department manage air pollution with increased efficiency, according to PCD Director-General Pinsak Suraswadi.

For the time being, he said that the PCD has implemented its Level 3 Plan, which means that they are seeking cooperation from employers by allowing their staff to work from home, and from motorists, by reducing their use of private cars to reduce emissions.

Construction sites have been instructed to reduce activities that push dust into the atmosphere, and the burning of waste in the open is prohibited, he said. Continued …

Bangkok disappearing under smog

Bangkokians awoke to a shroud of fine dust this week, with over 70 areas reporting levels of PM2.5 had breached 90 micrograms per cubic meter of air (μg/m3).

Thailand’s safety limit is 50 μg/m3. High levels of PM2.5 pose health risks, especially for people with chronic lung disease.

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts levels of PM2.5 – particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter – will rise across much of Thailand through Friday as the fine-dust pollution accumulates in stagnant air. Continued …

Exposure to PM2.5 affects heart and can be fatal, study shows

PM2.5 dust could put people at risk of heart disease, the head of Chulalongkorn University’s Information Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases said on Thursday.

Dr. Thiravat Hemachudha said people could die due to acute myocardial infarction if they are exposed to PM2.5 (particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter), PM10 and nitrogen dioxide, citing the Journal of American College of Cardiology published last year.

“Apart from lung, this study has proved that dust particles also affect the heart,” he said. Continued …

Diesel price to drop for first time in 7 months

The price of diesel will fall by 50 satang to 34.50 baht per liter from Feb. 15, Oil Fuel Fund Office Director Wisak Wattanasap said on Thursday.

Wisak said the price cut would be the first in seven months.

The price has been 35 baht per liter since June 14 last year. Continued …

Here are the rules about vaping in Thailand

The Thai government introduced a ban on electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or ‘vaping’), shisha smoking, and electronic shishas in 2014, for “health reasons and to discourage young people from starting to smoke”.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is reminding visitors to the country about this ban, which is part of the Tobacco Control Law, and the law prohibiting smoking in public areas.

Travelers to Thailand are advised not to bring any electronic cigarettes, shishas or any items associated with e-cigarettes, such as the “juice” and scented oils used in these devices. Travel agents and tour operators should also inform their clients of the ban on these products. Continued …

Railway on track for completion this year

Construction of the 145-kilometer Lop Buri-Pak Nam Pho double-track railway in Nakhon Sawan, which includes the country’s longest elevated stretch at 19km, will be completed on schedule by the end of this year, the Department of Rail Transport (DRT) said on Thursday. The 19km elevated stretch and a 10km one at ground level are being built along Highway No.366. The construction is 81.72% finished. (Bangkok Post)

‘Mink’ becomes first Thai to reach world No 1 in women’s snooker

Nutcharut “Mink” Wongharuthai on Thursday became the first Thai to reach No. 1 in the women’s world snooker rankings after qualifying for the quarterfinals of the Asia-Pacific Women’s Championship 2023.

The 23-year-old made it to world No 1 after winning her first three matches to top Group A, highlighted by a break of 114 against Australia’s Linda Larrea.

The young Thai snooker ace ousted Reanne Evans of England at the top of the world rankings. Continued …

Murderer transports woman’s corpse to landfill site via motorbike

After a woman’s corpse wrapped in a yellow blanket was found dumped at a landfill site in Prachin Buri province in central Thailand yesterday, police uncovered important CCTV footage of the murderer transporting her body via motorbike.

Police believe the murder to be a result of a love triangle.

At 4.39am on Jan. 27, a man is pictured driving out of an apartment block on a Honda Icon motorbike transporting a slumped figure wrapped in a yellow blanket. Continued …

Six Bangkok policemen charged with extorting Taiwanese actress’s group

A police investigation panel on Thursday charged six Bangkok police officers – two captains and four sergeants – with bribe-taking over 27,000 baht allegedly extorted from a Taiwanese actress and her friends.

Maj-Gen. Thiradej Thammasuthee, commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s Investigation Division, said one of the seven initial suspects was cleared, as he was not present when the bribe was allegedly demanded from actress Charlene and her group at a checkpoint in the early hours of Jan. 5.

He was among seven Huay Kwang policemen transferred on Monday after being identified as the ones who manned a temporary checkpoint in front of the Chinese Embassy on Ratchadaphisek Road where An’s group was stopped. Continued … 

Khao Yai’s top five things to do and see

Thailand is full of natural beauty, and Khao Yai may be one of the most picturesque regions in the country. Just a three-hour drive from Bangkok, this natural wonderland is teeming with amazing photo ops.

The location of Khao Yai is in Thailand’s eastern region and the province of Nakhon Ratchasima. Known as one of the big four cities of Isaan, the exotic cultural aspects will open your world to a whole new way of life.

Here, we have the five best things to do and see in Khao Yai. Continued …

A firsthand look at traditional Chinese medicine in Thailand

For anyone who’s ever had a sore throat, hot tea offers a welcome reprieve. But as Kevin Huang learned recently on a Penn Global seminar trip to Thailand, not all teas are created equally.

“Teas have different herbal properties, so they can be hot or cold, and they have different flavor profiles, like pungent, sour, sweet, salty, bitter,” explains Huang, a cell and molecular biology major from Bellmawr, New Jersey. “Each affects your body differently. Some can relieve cough; some are meant to help lower cholesterol. There are teas that address fatigue or insomnia and some for relieving stress.”

At this particular tea therapy workshop, Huang tried a varietal meant to boost energy. Fourth year School of Nursing student Linda Jiang tasted one that reduces stress and anxiety, surrounded by 18 other Penn students, who created and sipped herbal elixirs of their own. Continued …

Belgian couple ditch baby at airport after refusing to buy extra ticket

A Belgian couple at Israel’s Tel Aviv airport abandoned their baby after realizing they needed to buy a ticket for the child. The couple was late for a flight to Belgium and decided their child wasn’t worth the extra cost. They left their child at the check-in counter’s baggage conveyor belt and hurried to clear security to board their Ryanair flight to Brussels. Continued … 

Google, Apple disappoint as tech earnings hit by gloom

Google and Apple on Thursday reported downbeat results for the last quarter of 2022 as Amazon beat expectations, but warned that the coming months would be uncertain in a difficult moment for Big Tech. Continued … 

Poland expects 40 nations to oppose Russian athletes at Olympics

Polish Sports Minister Kamil Bortniczuk on Thursday said he expected several dozen nations to come out against the inclusion of athletes from Russia and Belarus in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-Feb 2

  • Muay Thai Festival starts today at Seapines/
  • Kite festival this weekend in Thap Sakae/
  • National park in Nan opts for bamboo over plastic/
  • Bangkok air pollution worsens/
  • Air Pollution Hits Unhealthy Levels in Chiang Mai/
  • Summer season starts in Thailand at the end of February/
  • Fruit vendor wins 30 million baht lottery jackpot/
  • Myanmar citizens in Thailand protest on coup anniversary/
  • Tourism: Bangkok police crack down on checkpoints after actress bribe scandal/Tourists ‘told to pay or go to jail’/Thailand is most searched destination for Chinese Airbnb guests/Taxi scam concerns visitors the most/Bangkok opens first free space for street hawkers/Krabi hotel accused of favoring foreigners over Thais/
  • Thailand Experience: You Think You Understand Thai Culture Because You Eat at Thai Restaurants?/Restaurant Review: Praça at The Standard Hua Hin/
  • International: Philippines to expand US access to military bases/Australia to oust monarch from banknotes/’Surprising’ ancient Egyptian mummy ingredients discovered/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Muay Thai Festival starts today at Seapines

Kite festival this weekend in Thap Sakae

The Fantasy Kite and Flag Festival, featuring more than 100 kites, is set for this weekend in Thap Sakae on Ban Thung Pradu Beach.

The event is organized by the Thap Sakae Beach Love Group, the Thap Sakae Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Thailand Kite Flying Assn., Prachuap province tourism and sports officials and the Ban Thung Pradu tourism community. Map 

National park in Nan opts for bamboo over plastic

Sri Nan National Park in northern Nan province is the latest public attraction to go plastic-free by providing bamboo cups and other naturally derived utensils made by people living in adjacent communities.

Staff at the park, known for its campgrounds amid beautiful mountain scenery, worked with a team from Chulalongkorn University and had the support of Thailand Science Research and Innovation to plan the project and recruit craftspeople in Ban Wana Phrai, Ban Nongphum and Ban Nam Pi to make the utensils.

Associate Professor Dr Khemarat Talerngsri, the project leader, said bamboo sheath and pluang leaves are run through specially developed forming machines to ensure good quality and reduced production costs.

Bangkok air pollution worsens

Seventy air-quality monitoring stations reported unsafe levels of air pollution in Bangkok as of 7am today, with the number rising to 80 by noon, the Bangkok Air Quality centrer said.

Four stations detected “red” levels of PM2.5.

PM2.5 refers to fine particles of dust in the air. It can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause premature death from lung and heart conditions, especially among the elderly and those with health complications. Continued …

Air Pollution Hits Unhealthy Levels in Chiang Mai

The northern province of Chiang Mai on Wednesday was blanketed with haze from forest fires, while the visibility was reduced, many people suffered eye and nose irritation.

The PM 2.5 level in the city reached 56 micrograms per cubic meter, while at Hot district of Chiang Mai, PM 2.5 level was measured at 93 micrograms per cubic meter. The air quality index (AQI) in Chiang Mai stood at 203, which is considered harmful to people’s health.

Inside the campus of Chiang Mai University, the air pollution detectors were installed at every faculty to monitor the level of PM2.5, starting on Wednesday morning for real time results hourly. Continued …

Summer season starts in Thailand at the end of February

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) is predicting a scorching high of 43 degrees Celsius in Thailand this summer, and that the new season will kick in before the end of February.

The TMD reported yesterday that the summer season in Thailand would be delayed by one or two weeks this year. The weather will get warmer by the end of February and the summer season will end around May.

March and April will bring hot, humid weather with thunderstorms, and temperatures will be about 35.5 degrees Celsius, a bit higher than last summer. Continued …

Fruit vendor wins 30 million baht lottery jackpot

A fruit vendor from Rayong province in eastern Thailand won 30 million baht (US$916,310) in the government lottery yesterday. He says it will pay off his debt and pay for his children’s education.

The new-found millionaire, 33-year-old Phongpat Witheethep, was at the market in Pluak Daeng district where he sells fruit for a living when he spotted a lottery ticket that he “liked the look of.”

Phongpat had such a good feeling about the number 297411 that he decided to buy five tickets with the same number. Continued …

Myanmar citizens in Thailand protest on coup anniversary

Hundreds of Myanmar citizens and workers gathered in front of the Myanmar embassy in Thailand to mark the second anniversary of the military coupin their home country, calling for the release of their duly elected leader Nobel Peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. Video 

Bangkok police crack down on checkpoints after actress bribe scandal

The Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) has warned officers to abide by Royal Thai Police regulations on setting up and operating road checkpoints.

Station chiefs and their superiors at two levels would be made responsible for any failures to comply with these regulations, said MPB chief Thiti Saengsawang in an urgent order dispatched on Tuesday.

The order was issued after Huay Kwang police reportedly admitted to extorting 27,000 baht from a Taiwanese actress in exchange for turning a blind eye to her illegal vaping device. Continued … 

Tourists ‘told to pay or go to jail’

A Singaporean man who was with a Taiwanese actress who alleged earlier that her group was extorted said police told him to pay up or spend two days in jail for having vaping devices he’d bought in Bangkok. Continued … 

Thailand is most searched destination for Chinese Airbnb guests

Thailand is the most searched destination for Chinese Airbnb guests. According to Airbnb’s data, Thailand was the most searched spot for Chinese guests within 24 hours of the government’s announcement on Dec. 26 to lift inbound quarantine requirements.

The top cities within Thailand that Chinese guests searched for were Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya.

Searches among Chinese guests have spiked for the categories of historical homes, domes, boat houses, and camping tents. These became the most anticipated searches by Chinese users in 2023. Continued … 

Taxi scam concerns visitors the most

Overpriced taxi services are the leading complaint among foreign tourists, along with poor garbage management and facilitation at the airport, according to the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT).

TCT’s quarterly survey, which polled 200 Western tourists in Thailand during the final quarter of 2022, showed satisfaction with taxi services received the lowest score of 3.5 out of 5, with tourists indicating this is the most critical problem that should be solved immediately.

The survey of tourists in Bangkok found they were not satisfied with what they deem to be unfair treatment, as taxi drivers often only take passengers who agree to pay a fare without using the meter, which means drivers can arbitrarily charge higher prices for their service. Continued … 

Bangkok opens first free space for street hawkers

Bangkok kicked off a project to offer space free of charge for hawkers and street vendors in the heart of the city on Wednesday, clearing cluttered pavements.

City Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt presided over the launch of the “Hello Hab-Re” (Hello Hawkers) project outside Samyan Mitrtown on Rama IV Road.

The project will reorganize hawkers and street vendors in the city by allocating suitable areas that do not block public footpaths. The operator of Samyan Mitrtown, a mixed-use shopping complex, has agreed to provide space next to its building in Soi Chula 42 for registered vendors to use for free from Monday to Friday, 8am-2pm and 3pm-8pm. Continued …

Krabi hotel accused of favoring foreigners over Thais

Thai tourists condemned a hotel in Krabi for discriminatory service standards after they claimed the hotel provided better treatment to foreign guests and neglected domestic tourists. They claimed that the hotel prioritized foreign guests with higher purchasing power over them for financial gain.

A Thai man posted three videos to share his bad experience at a hotel on Railay Beach. The incident was reported to have happened last Sunday.

In the videos, the man and his friends explained to the hotel staff that they booked the hotel for 5,000 baht per night. The fee included a shuttle golf cart from a car park to the Nam Mao Pier and a boat trip from the Nam Mao Pier to Railay Beach, where the hotel was located. Continued … 

You Think You Understand Thai Culture Because You Eat at Thai Restaurants?

Growing up in the American South, I was usually the only Thai person in any room. I’m used to seeing the limited knowledge that many Americans have about Thai culture, often reducing it to a takeout order or an object of fetishization.

As a Thai-American person, I find myself thinking a lot about my own experiences, as well as my family’s of being Thai restaurant owners, and I come back to this quote by scholar Jennifer Ho: “I understood my identity through my family and foodways.

Food has played a significant role in the ways people perceive my family’s identity in America. Witnessing members of my family being expected to fulfill a role of being easy-going (Thailand is marketed as “The Land of Smiles”) and serving delicious food compels me to explore the origins of this concept of “Thainess.” Continued …

Praça at The Standard Hua Hin

Be it at home or when traveling, the Let’s Eat team is always on the lookout for a great bar serving original quality drinks.

Such appealing watering holes receive bonus points if they are beach side in an idyllic, tropical, Insta-worthy setting. Double bonus if they have a food selection perfect for nibbling or sharing. Triple points if that food offering is inventive, appealing, and veers from the “usual” food and drink selection.

One such example is in Hua Hin, and it’s called Praça. Blessed with a prime beachfront location at the modish The Standard Hua Hin Hotel, Praça, is Portuguese for plaza or piazza, signifying a local meeting place. With its seaside garden setting and restored heritage beach house, Praça must be one of the coolest meeting places on Hua Hin’s beachfront. Continued …

Philippines to expand US access to military bases

The United States and the Philippines are expected to announce a deal Thursday that will give U.S. troops access to another four military bases in the Southeast Asian nation, as the longtime allies seek to deter Chinese aggression in the region. Continued … 

Australia to oust monarch from banknotes

Australia will erase the British-based monarch from its banknotes, replacing the late Queen Elizabeth II’s image on its $5 note with a design honoring Indigenous culture, the central bank said Thursday. Continued … 

‘Surprising’ ancient Egyptian mummy ingredients discovered

The discovery of dozens of beakers and bowls in a mummification workshop has helped reveal how ancient Egyptians embalmed their dead, with some “surprising” ingredients imported from as far as Southeast Asia, a study said Wednesday. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, cha am, covid, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Feb 1

  • Cha Am Bikini Beach Run March 19/
  • Dust levels unsafe in 53 provinces, including PKK/
  • Power bills poised to drop by mid-year/
  • What to do if Thai police stop you and attempt a ‘shake-down’/
  • Thailand’s corruption standing for 2022 an improvement over 2021/
  • Thailand Elite Card embroiled in scandal over suspicious Chinese businesses/
  • Cabinet approves adjustments to basic daily wages for 17 professions/
  • Thailand to boycott SEA Games Muay Thai after Cambodia changes name/
  • BMA hospitals going solar as Bangkok targets net zero emissions/
  • Tourism: Thai tourism industry ups forecast to 30 million foreign arrivals this year/Thailand tourist fee: 300 baht via air, 150 baht via land/sea/More than 200,000 Tourists Visit Samui Island in January/Phuket plays Russian roulette – an existential problem for the island’s tourism/Russian woman bites off British woman’s finger in Ko Pha Ngan bean bag row/RTP Chief apologizes to Taiwanese actress: ‘Good cops will be rewarded – bad ones punished’/7 Bangkok policemen moved, face charges over Taiwanese actress’s bribery accusation/Senior traffic cop transferred after allegedly extorting 30,000 baht from tourist(s)/Floating market: “Long running con” investigated after tourist pays 5,000 baht for two hour trip/German Man Missing After Jumping From Ferry Near Phangan Island/Pirate-themed floating restaurant seating 100 sinks off Pattaya/Qatar Airways launches thrice daily flights to Phuket/
  • Thailand Experience: These 11 Ancient Temples In Thailand Have Stories To Tell/Experience luxury at these 8 Bangkok riverside hotels/
  • Covid: Beijing reaches ‘temporary herd immunity’/
  • International: Southeast Asia factories fire up as China reopens/Trees could cut urban heatwave mortality by a third/US hits Myanmar with new sanctions on coup 2nd anniversary/49 boys drown in Pakistan boating accident/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Cha Am Bikini Beach Run March 19

Dust levels unsafe in 53 provinces, including PKK

PM2.5 dust levels above the safe limit of 50 micrograms per cubic meter were reported in 53 provinces across the country, including Bangkok and its suburbs, this morning.

The worst hit area was in tambon Lat Yai of Muang district in Samut Sakhon province, with harmful levels of PM2.5 dust at 132mcg/m³, the Pollution Control Department’s air pollution center reported on today.

In the Central Plains, dust levels were at 37-132 mcg/m³, with dust exceeding safe levels in parts in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, Lop Buri, Sing Buri and Ang Thong. Continued …

Power bills poised to drop by mid-year

Electricity bills for businesses are likely to become less expensive around mid-year as factors that earlier drove up energy costs are losing steam, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The prospect of a new fuel tariff (Ft) was greatly anticipated during an informal meeting held on Tuesday by representatives from the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking and state energy agencies.

“A new Ft rate to be enforced between May and August tends to get lower, causing no further impact on businesses and households,” said Isares Rattanadilok na Phuket, vice chairman of the FTI. Continued …

What to do if Thai police stop you and attempt a ‘shake-down’

First thing … keep calm. Let them lead the conversation and don’t say anything other than answering their questions.

Secondly, the vast majority of Thai police are there to do a job, protecting fellow Thais and foreign visitors. But there are a few who will take advantage of situations where they think they can get away with stitching you up for a few thousand baht.

Recent events have brought this to our attention, again, and we would invite everyone to just review these recommendations if you find yourself in this situation. Continued …

Thailand’s corruption standing for 2022 an improvement over 2021

Thailand’s corruption standing for 2022 improved nine places to 101st, from 110th out of 180 countries in 2021, according to the 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International. Thailand is fourth among ASEAN countries.

Secretary-General of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) Niwatchai Kasemmongkol said that Thailand scored 36 points, compared to 35 points in 2021.

The world’s top performer was Denmark, which scored 90 points, followed by Finland and New Zealand, which scored 87 points. Top performer among Asian countries was Singapore, which was ranked fourth place globally, with 83 points. Continued … 

Thailand Elite Card embroiled in scandal over suspicious Chinese businesses

Thailand’s tourism and sports minister has responded to allegations that members of the Elite Card program have been linked to dodgy Chinese businesses – the same Chinese and Chinese businesses that are being linked to the ongoing “Tuhao” investigation.

Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn says he’s asked the Royal Thai Police to look into the claims, saying they will potentially “affect Thailand’s tourism sector and overall reputation”.

Tourism operators have suggested the Elite Card application process be linked to international police so that criminal checks can be carried out. Phiphat says that as part of the current process, Thailand Privilege Card, which operates the Elite Card program, sends applicants’ personal information to the Immigration Bureau and the Department of Consular Affairs, who carry out criminal checks. Continued …

Cabinet approves adjustments to basic daily wages for 17 professions

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved the Labor Ministry’s proposal to adjust the wages for skilled workers in 17 fields, which would see them earning between 465 and 700 baht daily.

Labor Minister Suchart Chomklin said the Cabinet agreed to adjust the minimum daily rate for the 17 professions, provided they receive a certificate from the Skill Development Department.

The professions to be covered are divided into three groups, namely the industrial sector, technicians and workers in the service sector. Suchart said there is a big demand for people in these fields. Continued …

Thailand to boycott SEA Games Muay Thai after Cambodia changes name

Thailand will boycott the kickboxing competition at this year’s Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in protest against hosts Cambodia using the sport’s local name of Kun Khmer rather than Muay Thai.

The National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) announced on Tuesday that no Thai athletes will compete in kickboxing at the regional games, hosted by Phnom Penh from May 5-17.

The NOCT added, however, that to avoid a dispute between the two countries, it will not try to stop the host from organizing kickboxing under its Khmer name. Continued …

BMA hospitals going solar as Bangkok targets net zero emissions

Hospitals under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Medical Division will be hooked up with solar power under an agreement signed with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) yesterday.

The move aims to cut hospitals’ expenses as well as reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, said Deputy Bangkok Gov. Tavida Kamolvej, who presided over the deal-signing ceremony.

“Bangkok would like to thank the ERC for realizing the importance of public hospitals, which require a lot of power to provide quality healthcare to the people. Since hospitals use power 24/7, switching to solar energy will also greatly reduce pollution emissions,” she said. Continued …

Thai tourism industry ups forecast to 30 million foreign arrivals this year

Thailand’s tourism industry expects foreign arrivals to exceed 30 million this year, significantly higher than government estimates of 25-27.5 million.

Making the forecast on Tuesday, the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) predicted foreign and domestic tourists would generate over 3 trillion baht in revenue this year.

However, TCT President Chamnan Srisawat warned the huge volume of customers will pose challenges for the Thai tourism industry, which is still recovering from the ravages of Covid-19. Continued …

Thailand tourist fee: 300 baht via air, 150 baht via land/sea

Thailand plans to charge foreign arrivals arriving by air a tourist fee of 300 baht (US$9.11) and a fee of 150 baht (US$4.56) for tourists entering the kingdom via land/sea by mid-2023.

The 300-baht tourist fee for air arrivals has been in the pipeline for a long time and is set to be enforced in June after facing several Covid-19-related delays.

However, the Ministry of Tourism wasn’t sure about whether to apply the fee to tourists entering Thailand via land or sea borders. Continued …

More than 200,000 Tourists Visit Samui Island in January

More than 200,000 tourists have visited Samui Island since the beginning of this year.

The Surat Thani Gov. Wichawut Jintoe told the press yesterday that from Jan. 1 to Jan. 23, there were 178,077 tourists who visited Samui Island. Of those, 86,507 arrived by planes and 91,570 arrived by ferries.

“This number did not include tourists from cruise ships, which were four rounds for one-day trips and two rounds stayed on Samui Island for one night. At the end of this month, there will be more than 200,000 tourists who are visiting Samui Island,” Wichawut noted. Continued …

Phuket plays Russian roulette – an existential problem for the island’s tourism

While Phuket’s tourism tzars are delighted with the surge of arrivals into Phuket in recent months, the statistics reveal some crucial warnings for Phuket’s immediate tourism future. And, despite all the back-patting from the local Tourism of Thailand office, Phuket’s total tourist arrivals are still below 50% of average pre-pandemic levels.

Still, Phuket’s tourism stakeholders have been lapping up the surge of mostly Russian arrivals, as hotels, restaurants and seats in tour boats have been filling up over the past two months.

Let’s check out the actual statistics. Continued …

Russian woman bites off British woman’s finger in Ko Pha Ngan bean bag row

A leisurely stroll on a Thai beach with two friends and a dog bizarrely evolved into a scene from a horror movie after a Russiannwoman went berserk, chomped on a British woman’s finger and spat it out.

The British woman was walking her dog with a German friend on a beach on Ko Pha Ngan Island when they spotted an unoccupied bean bag chair next to a couple of tourists. They decided to take a break, enjoy a drink, and lie down for a bit.

But a Russian woman, identified as Vavara G, wasn’t happy about the arrangement and an argument broke out with the British woman, Angelina H. Continued …

RTP Chief apologizes to Taiwanese actress: ‘Good cops will be rewarded – bad ones punished’

A stony-faced chief of the Royal Thai Police Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittipraphat faced the massed ranks of the Thai media yesterday.

He apologized to the Taiwanese actress and the public who had faced financial losses at the hands of some of his men.

Damrongsak only took over at the helm of the RTP late last year. He admitted that since then there had been many incidents, both good and bad, that he had to deal with. Continued …

7 Bangkok policemen moved, face charges over Taiwanese actress’s bribery accusation

Seven police officers from Bangkok’s Huay Kwang Police Station have been transferred and charged with dereliction of duty for allegedly extorting 27,000 baht from a Taiwanese actress early this month.

Police Maj-General Attaporn Wongsiripreeda, commander of the Metropolitan Police Division 1, signed an order on Monday transferring two captains and five sergeants to inactive posts so a strict disciplinary investigation can take place. Continued …

Senior traffic cop transferred after allegedly extorting 30,000 baht from tourist(s)

The chief of the Chonburi provincial police has ordered that a senior traffic policeman at the Muang Pattaya police station be transferred to inactive duties at HQ after allegations that he extorted 30,000 baht from a Chinese tourist or tourists.

The allegation had appeared on the site of the National Guides’ Assn. which had a clip of the incident. A fine of 60,000 baht had been demanded after an electronic cigarette device was found.

This was bargained down to 30,000 baht. Continued …

Floating market: “Long running con” investigated after tourist pays 5,000 baht for two-hour trip

A Thai tourist has claimed being charged 5,000 baht for a two-hour boat trip at the Damnoen Saduak floating market in Ratchaburi, southwest of the Thai capital Bangkok.

The tourist, who had been with her husband, said that they faced high charges everywhere they went on a two-week trip to the country.

She seemed to have a foreign husband in tow. Either that or they were paying more because they were going to places with foreign tourists. Continued …

German Man Missing After Jumping From Ferry Near Phangan Island

A German man has gone missing after he reportedly jumped from a ferry near Phangan Island in Surat Thani.

The Royal Thai Navy Second Area Command reported to Thai media that they were notified that a male foreign tourist jumped from a ferry heading from Phangan Island at 7pm last night to Donsak in Surat Thani.

Fifteen minutes after the ferry left the pier near Phangan Island, passengers shouted out that someone jumped off the ferry. The ferry captain turned the vessel around to search for the passenger while calling the Royal Thai Navy for assistance. Continued …

Pirate-themed floating restaurant seating 100 sinks off Pattaya

A salvage mission has been launched after a pirate-ship-themed floating restaurant sank off Pattaya on Monday. The tourist boat, named Krakenian The Private of Pattaya, capsized in heavy seas about two kilometers from Pattaya city. Fortunately, the tourist boat-restaurant was closed at the time due to bad weather, and no injuries or deaths were reported from the sinking. (The Nation)

Qatar Airways launches thrice daily flights to Phuket

Qatari flag carrier Qatar Airways is launching three flights per day between Doha and Phuket in southern Thailand starting yesterday to meet the ever-growing demand.

The additional flights bring the airline’s number of services to Thailand up to seven per day, including four flights to and from Bangkok.

Doha is a major Middle Eastern transport hub and most of the passengers flying to Thailand from Doha have flown in from London, Manchester, Paris, Frankfurt, Zurich, and New York. Continued …

These 11 Ancient Temples In Thailand Have Stories To Tell

Few countries in all of Asia fascinate travelers and adventurers as much as Thailand. Home to spectacular beaches, authentic Thai dishes, and colorful festivals, the country attracts millions of adventure seekers each year.

For those looking to explore some of Thailand’s more unique offerings, its ancient temples are a great option. From grand Buddhist temples to exquisite Hindu shrines, the country is full of enigmatic places that have stories to tell. Here are 11 amazing ancient temples in Thailand travelers should not miss out on!

Wat Phra Kaew

Located in the heart of Bangkok, Wat Phra Kaew is the most sacred temple in Thailand. Built to house a relic of the Lord Buddha, this grand complex comprises several splendid buildings and elaborate stucco decorations. It is also home to one of the world’s largest collections of Buddhist art. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in the beauty of this temple. Visitors should note that dress codes apply when visiting temples in Thailand, so modesty is important. Continued …

Experience luxury at these 8 Bangkok riverside hotels

Bangkok has some of the most amazing hotels in the world, and those located near the Chao Phraya River are among the best. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable stay or a memorable experience, Bangkok’s riverside hotels offer something for everyone. From luxurious resorts with breathtaking views to chic boutique hotels with incredible amenities, let’s take a look at the the eight Bangkok magical riverside hotels.

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

If you’re looking for an extraordinary hotel experience while in Bangkok, then Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is a perfect choice. This five-star hotel is sure to exceed all your expectations with its unparalleled amenities and service.

From the moment you arrive at the hotel, you’ll be swept away by the breathtaking view of the river! Plus, the luxurious rooms offer a peaceful sanctuary after a long day of sightseeing or shopping. Continued … 

Beijing reaches ‘temporary herd immunity’

Beijing has reached “temporary herd immunity” and its Covid outbreak is nearing an end, a city health official said on Tuesday, in another sign China’s unprecedented virus wave is waning.

A torrent of cases has cascaded through the world’s most populous nation since the ruling Communist Party abruptly ended its zero-Covid policy last month.

The surge packed hospitals and crematoriums in major cities, including Beijing, though the scale of the outbreak is hard to verify given that official data is believed to represent a tiny fraction of the true number of cases. Continued …

Southeast Asia factories fire up as China reopens

Asia’s manufacturers are improving at the start of the year as the region becomes more optimistic about how China’s re-opening might help offset an otherwise gloomy outlook for the rest of the world. Continued …

Trees could cut urban heatwave mortality by a third

Planting more trees in urban areas to lower summertime temperatures could decrease deaths directly linked to hot weather and heatwaves by a third, researchers said today. Continued …

US hits Myanmar with new sanctions on coup 2nd anniversary

The United States slapped fresh sanctions on Myanmar Tuesday, a day before the Southeast Asian country marks the second anniversary of a military coup that launched a violent campaign against democracy activists. Continued …

49 boys drown in Pakistan boating accident

Forty-nine children died when their overloaded boat capsized in northwest Pakistan, police said Tuesday after divers spent three days dragging bodies from freezing waters. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-Jan 31

  • Kite festival this weekend in Thap Sakae/
  • Thailand tops world in motorcycle use/
  • Thailand second-best for paved roads in Southeast Asia/
  • Thailand Businesses Lead the World in Business Health/
  • Fewer smokers, surging taxes hitting Thai tobacco industry hard/
  • JD Central discontinues operations in Thailand on March 3/
  • Five healthy digital habits/
  • Wife ties up gambling husband – quit or she’s going home to mum/
  • Three more smart piers to be opened in 2023/
  • Caught with two meth pills? You will be considered a dealer/
  • Tourism: Actress bribe claim borne out by officers’ confessions/Police fast-track scandal prompts question: Can everything be bought in Thailand?/Thailand’s police caught with their pants down in extortion case/Taiwanese actress case puts e-cigarettes back in the spotlight/Hotels struggle to attract quality staff as tourism recovers/Phuket Expects 12 Million Tourists This Year/Chinese yearning for overseas trips in 2023/Why China isn’t about to save Thailand’s economy yet/Vendors at Bangkok shrine condemned for overcharging Chinese tourists/ASEAN cities face uphill battle to preserve heritage/Thailand Is Building an Epic New $9 Billion ‘Aviation City’ for Tourists/
  • Thailand Experience: 10 Unbelievably Delicious Dishes You Have to Try in Thailand/Unlock the Secrets of Authentic Thai Food with These Essential Ingredients/
  • International: Suicide Bomber Kills At Least 59, Wounds 150 At Pakistan Mosque/France, Australia announce artillery deal for Ukraine/US Fed set to slow down rate rises this year/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Kite festival this weekend in Thap Sakae

The Fantasy Kite and Flag Festival, featuring more than 100 kites, is set for this weekend in Thap Sakae on Ban Thung Pradu Beach.

The event is organized by the Thap Sakae Beach Love Group, the Thap Sakae Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Thailand Kite Flying Assn., Prachuap province tourism and sports officials and the Ban Thung Pradu tourism community. Map 

Thailand tops world in motorcycle use

Thailand second-best for paved roads in Southeast Asia

Thailand Businesses Lead the World in Business Health

Grant Thornton released its International Business Report this month, showing that the business health of the Thai mid-market has been at its highest point since 2017. In the second half of 2022, Thailand’s business health improved by 3.8 percentage points over H1 2022, with the index reaching 8.8 – marking the highest point in five years and exceeding regional and global averages for the first time since 2017.

In contrast, ASEAN business leaders are more cautious, while Asia Pacific and global business leaders remain bearish.

Ian Pascoe, CEO and managing partner at Grant Thornton in Thailand, said this on the findings: “Business leaders are better prepared after having gone through 3 years of unprecedented economic turbulence as Thailand emerges from the pandemic. Our business survey indicates Thai businesses share a positive sentiment in their outlook for 2023 and are more positive about the effects of the external factors on their business.” Continued … 

Fewer smokers, surging taxes hitting Thai tobacco industry hard

The Tobacco Curers Development Assn. is calling on the Tobacco Authority of Thailand (TOAT) and the Finance Ministry to review the current tax structure as the dual cigarette tax rates are affecting them financially.

TOAT recently announced that it was earmarking 56.16 billion baht to provide a 50% subsidy for production to tobacco farmers and independent tobacco curers.

Arun Pothita, secretary-general of Chiang Mai’s TOAT branch and a representative of an alliance of tobacco farmers in Thailand, said farmers under contract with TOAT are aware that the agency’s earnings are also affected by the tax structure. Continued …

JD Central discontinues operations in Thailand on March 3

Online shopping platform JD Central (www.jd.co.th) announced on Monday that it was discontinuing its operations in Thailand from March 3, though customer service will be available until March 31.

The company said the JD Central official store will stop accepting orders from 11.59pm on Feb. 15, while the JD Central platform with other vendors will stop accepting orders from 11.59pm on March 3.

The company has promised to fulfill all orders placed on or before March 3. The time taken for deliveries will be determined by the third-party logistics provider and seller. Continued …

Five healthy digital habits

Early January is a great time to start using healthy digital habits, and you still have time to make a promise to yourself and try to follow them during the next year. It’s certainly easier than mending our ways regarding health, exercise and self-improvement!

A set of simple healthy digital habits that can strengthen the safety of your data and make life easier in the coming year. Kaspersky experts prepared this list:

#1 New Year, new passwords!

Start the New Year with a real password revision. Now is the time to check and change passwords on all accounts. And remember the main rule – don’t use the same password for multiple accounts! Continued …

Wife ties up gambling husband – quit or she’s going home to mum

Thailand was having a great laugh – usually signified by 555 (ha ha ha) – after an online post of a man who had been tied up by his wife.

The errant husband was bound hands and feet before he agreed to stop his gambling habits.

Fah – the wife – said that when a message came in on her husband’s phone she thought he was chatting to another woman. Continued …

Three more smart piers to be opened in 2023 in Bangkok

Three more smart piers will be opened by this year, namely Rama VII, Tha Tien and Kiakkai, deputy government spokesperson Tipanan Sirichana said on Monday.

She said the project to build 29 smart piers across Greater Bangkok at a total cost of 942 million baht aims to facilitate travel and tourism.

She added that this project is in line with the government’s 20-year national strategy, which aims to make Thailand a developed country with security, prosperity and sustainability without leaving anyone behind. Continued …

Caught with two meth pills? You will be considered a dealer

In an effort to effectively combat the illegal drug trade, a law is being amended in Thailand so that anyone caught in possession of more than one meth pill will now be considered a drug dealer. Minister of Public Health Anutin Charnvirakul announced this change on Monday, stating that the current regulation has been exploited by those who actually intend to sell the drugs.

The harsh new law will view anyone with more than one pill as having the drugs with intent to sell, instead of the current standard of 15 pills or fewer being considered for personal use only.

The amendment, which has already been prepared by the Committee on Treatment and Rehabilitation of Drug Addicts, is awaiting a signature from the Health minister. It will then go to the Cabinet for its sign-off before ultimately being published in the Royal Gazette, making the law official. – thethaiger.com

Actress bribe claim borne out by officers’ confessions

A number of officers among the seven Huai Khwang policemen accused by Taiwanese actress Charlene An of extorting 27,000 baht from her in the early morning of Jan. 4 have now admitted she was telling the truth, according to a police source.

The source was quoting information discussed by executives of the Royal Thai Police (RTP) during Monday’s meeting of a committee that screens senior police officials for promotion.

The seven officers who stopped the Taiwanese actress and her companions in a Grab taxi for a security check at a checkpoint in front of the Chinese embassy on Ratchadaphisek Road did, in fact, demand 27,000 baht not to arrest the actress, who was found in possession of a vaping device, said the source. Continued …

Police fast-track scandal prompts question: Can everything be bought in Thailand?

Countless numbers of Thais have flown in and out of Thailand over the years, but few have paid much attention to fast-track services at airports. That changed last week when a Chinese tourist posted a clip of herself enjoying VVIP services from police at a Thai airport.

The tourist’s clip went viral and stirred up a huge controversy. In the clip, the female creator gives a frank and positive review of the VVIP service she received, with police facilitating her entry into Thailand at every step.

She describes how she was greeted by a policeman as soon as she walked off her flight. She was then guided to a special immigration lane, helped with her luggage, and led to a private sedan for transfer to her hotel. Police motorcycle outriders accompanied her sedan all the way to her hotel in Pattaya, clearing traffic to ensure she had a smooth and uninterrupted journey. And all for a modest price of around 7,000 baht. Continued …

Thailand’s police caught with their pants down in extortion case

The case of the extortion of a Taiwanese actress and her friends in a late night shakedown outside the Chinese Embassy in Huay Khwang on Jan. 4 took several new twists yesterday.

Increasingly, it appears that the police – specifically officers from the Huay Khwang force – have been caught with their pants down. It is no longer an “alleged extortion”, according to sources.

Attempts to wriggle their way out of the damaging case for the RTP and Thai tourism are now in tatters. And things look set to only get worse for the so-called BiB. Continued …

Taiwanese actress case puts e-cigarettes back in the spotlight

Punishments related to the import and sale of what Thais call “buree fai faa” – e-cigarettes and “nam yaa buree fai faa” – vaping fluid are back in the spotlight.

The issue is one of the features of the extortion case surrounding the Taiwanese actress Charlene An that is the talk of Thailand.

Many tourists are confused by the law and there have been calls for signage at airports to clarify the issue as it relates to visitors. Continued …

Hotels struggle to attract quality staff as tourism recovers

Working in a hotel used to be considered an attractive career, as not only was the job itself interesting but the monthly salary was relatively decent and there were other benefits, too. But the Covid-19 pandemic changed all that, and now hotel operators are having to work harder than ever before to recruit staff as tourists start coming back to Thailand.

Operators of hotels with fewer than 5 stars are facing the biggest headaches. Experienced staff who are returning to the industry have mostly moved to work at the top hotels where the pay is higher. As thing stands now, many hotels in the provinces want to resume full operations but can’t because they don’t have enough staff. Continued …

Phuket Expects 12 Million Tourists This Year

The Phuket Tourism Authority of Thailand (Phuket TAT) is expecting 12 million tourists to visit Phuket this year.

The director of the Phuket TAT, Nathasiri Ronnasiri, said, “We are expecting 12 million tourists to visit Phuket this year. This will be roughly the same number of tourists as before Covid-19.”

“Last year, the number of visitors in Phuket was 9,260,657. Of those numbers 46.4 percent were foreign tourists and 53.6 percent were Thai tourists. Phuket has generated 74.4 percent of its income from foreign tourists.” Nathasiri stated. Continued …

Chinese yearning for overseas trips in 2023

A recent report by tourism website Qyer unveiled that most Chinese plan to travel overseas within a year, as the country’s adjusted Covid-19 response has lifted restrictions on overseas trips.

It revealed that Chinese travelers are yearning for overseas trips — 75.4 % of the subjects paid attention to outbound tourism content while they were browsing travel tips.

About 38.5 % of the subjects wanted to have an outbound travel within half a year and 12 % planned to do so during the approaching Spring Festival holiday. Over half said they wanted to have a 10-day overseas trip. Continued …

Why China isn’t about to save Thailand’s economy yet

The recent surge of optimism that the world economy would have a soft landing is largely due to China’s decision to ditch its “zero-Covid” policy. Clearly, the reopening has lessened the risks and uncertainty surrounding the outlook.

China’s real GDP increased by 3% overall in 2022 from the previous year, which was the second-worst performance since 1976, the final year of the Cultural Revolution (the worst being 2020, when the pandemic began).

The earlier and faster than expected ending of zero-Covid restrictions in China bodes well for the global economy and adds to the recent run of positive news. But how significant will the spillovers from China’s policy likely be for Thailand and the global economy? Continued …

Vendors at Bangkok shrine condemned for overcharging Chinese tourists

Thai netizens condemned vendors selling religious offerings to foreign tourists at extortionate prices outside the famous Erawan Shrine in Bangkok after a video went viral on social media of a vendor charging Chinese tourists over 10,000 baht for an offering set.

Erawan Shrine is one of the most popular religious sites in the capital city. Formally known as the Thao Maha Phrom Shrine, the shrine houses a statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of Brahma, the Hindu god of creation.

The name might also refer to Mahabrahma, the ruler of the Brahma realm in Asian mythology. It is located in Bangkok city center at Ratchaprasong intersection, near the CentralWorld shopping mall. Continued …

ASEAN cities face uphill battle to preserve heritage

Right behind San Sebastian Basilica, one of Manila’s most revered churches, a high-rise condominium is under construction, triggering a conflict between developers and conservationists. The unsavory development also threatens to derail the Philippines’ bid to have the monument listed as a World Heritage Site and preserve the country’s heritage value.

In some other ASEAN nations, like Thailand or Cambodia, which prioritized their tourism agenda to propel economic growth, activists are fighting a losing battle against developers for heritage preservation.

“The impact of this is the commodification of natural and cultural heritage with the results in the loss of authenticity, and sometimes irreversible damage not just to nature but also culture,” said Johannes Widodo, professor at the National University of Singapore and a senior adviser to the Southeast Asian Cultural Heritage Alliance (SEACHA). Continued …

Thailand Is Building an Epic New $9 Billion ‘Aviation City’ for Tourists

An historic airport in Thailand will soon be taken to new heights.

The Thai government is spending $8.8 billion (฿290 billion) to turn the country’s Vietnam War–era U-Tapao airport into a new “Eastern Aviation City.” Construction on the massive megastructure is set to begin early this year. The project will reportedly generate 15,600 additional jobs in the first five years and bolster Thailand’s aviation industry.

Covering approximately 1,040 hectares (2,570 acres) in the country’s industrial east, the new transport hub is aiming to attract more tourists to the tropical archipelago.

The new international terminal will be linked with a budget airport (Don Muang) and Thailand’s main airport (Suvarnabhumi) in order to bring passengers an array of flights and carriers. In addition, the city will include a free trade zone for commodities, a flight training center and an aircraft maintenance center. Continued …

10 Unbelievably Delicious Dishes You Have to Try in Thailand

If you are looking for delicious, authentic food that will tantalize your taste buds, you should definitely head to Thailand. The tasty and unique flavors of Thai cuisine are notorious around the world and the country is home to some of the most amazing dishes.

The best Thai food has a unique blend of all five flavors: spicy, sweet, sour, salty, and creamy. Let’s explore the 10 must-try dishes when visiting Thailand.

Tom Yum Goong

You can’t go wrong with starting your culinary journey in Thailand with some tom uum goong. This classic dish features a spicy and sour soup with shrimp as the main ingredient. Tom yum goong also includes lemon grass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, mushrooms, shallots, and tomatoes to enhance the flavor. Another key feature of this dish is the access to a special chili paste called nam prik pao that you can use to add a tasty kick of heat. Continued …

Unlock the Secrets of Authentic Thai Food with These Essential Ingredients

Are you tired of eating the same old food day in and day out? Do you want to add a little spice to your life? Look no further, because Thai cuisine is here to save the day!

Thai food is popular for its bold and flavorful taste, and the secret to its deliciousness lies in the unique ingredients in its dishes. In this guide, you will learn all about the essential Thai ingredients and pantry staples you need to cook authentic Thai food in your own kitchen.

1. Essential Thai Ingredients

Thai food is all about balance. The flavors of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and savory must all be present in every dish. The following ingredients are the building blocks of Thai cuisine and are present in almost every dish. Continued …

Suicide Bomber Kills At Least 59, Wounds 150 At Pakistan Mosque

A suicide bomber struck a crowded mosque inside a police compound in Pakistan on Monday, causing the roof to collapse and killing at least 59 people and wounding more than 150 others, officials said. Continued … 

France, Australia announce artillery deal for Ukraine

France and Australia announced a deal to jointly produce 155 mm artillery shells for Ukraine on Monday after a ministerial meeting in Paris that showcased efforts to relaunch ties between the Pacific allies. Continued … 

US Fed set to slow down rate rises this year

The U.S. Federal Reserve is likely to lift interest rates by just 0.75% this year amid improving economic figures, benefiting Asian stock markets as well as high-risk assets, investment company Principal Asset Management said yesterday. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Jan 30

1 Comment

  • Tennis stars explore Thai culture ahead of Hua Hin tournament/
  • Muay Thai Festival starts Thursday at Seapines/
  • Soaring rice prices show food inflation still stalking the world/
  • Chiang Mai beats Singapore as safest city in Southeast Asia/
  • Thailand’s unemployment rate drops to 1.2% as of November/
  • Regulator eyes tariff on factories to boost clean energy/
  • China-Laos-Thailand rail link plans up for talks/
  • 3-airport high-speed rail link completion seen by 2029/
  • Mae Hong Son in dire condition – 135 fire hotspots so far/
  • Pattaya’s revolutionary medical city moving ahead slowly/
  • Tourism: Russians dominate Phuket tourism revival/14 rooms at Kanchanaburi river resort razed to the ground – everyone safe/RTP says ‘trust us’ not social media in Taiwanese actress extortion case/Taiwanese actress who claimed extortion caught in lie on camera/First Songkran in Four Years in Pattaya Looking to be a Major Event/Illegal jet skis return to Phuket’s Surin Beach/
  • Thailand Experience: Exploring the National Parks of Thailand/Sustainable tourism could look like this/
  • Covid: Over 80% of Thais have ‘hybrid immunity’ against Covid-19/
  • International: Challenges remain for women’s reproductive health in Asia Pacific/Erdogan says Finland may join NATO without Sweden/Boeing’s 747, the original jumbo jet, prepares for final send-off/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Tennis stars explore Thai culture ahead of Hua Hin tournament

Five tennis stars participated in a range of cultural activities in the resort town of Hua Hin on Saturday ahead of the upcoming 2023 Thailand Open tournament. The tournament is being held all week at True Arena.

The activities at Bluport mall included painting eco-friendly clothing, a gallery visit, and Muay Thai lessons.

Ukrainian Dayana Yastremska joined Anna Karolína Schmiedlová from Slovakia and Katie Boulter from the United Kingdom in an event to promote environmentally friendly clothing. The three painted attire to encourage consumers to pay more attention to the environmental impact of their fashion choices. Continued …

Muay Thai Festival starts Thursday at Seapines

Soaring rice prices show food inflation still stalking the world

Rice prices are climbing, a sign that the food inflation shock that threw millions into poverty is still reverberating, even as the cost of wheat and other farm commodities has declined.

Thai rice, a benchmark for Asia, has soared to the highest in almost two years. Strong demand lies at the heart of the rally, with some importers buying more of the grain to replace wheat after the war in Ukraine disrupted supplies.

Some consumers have also been stocking up ahead of festivals, while a strengthening Thai currency has also helped to push up dollar-denominated prices. Continued …

Chiang Mai beats Singapore as safest city in Southeast Asia

Chiang Mai in the north of Thailand was named Southeast Asia’s safest city and the 32nd safest among 416 cities across the world.

According to the Numbeo website, Chiang Mai won 75.5 points for safety in Southeast Asia, followed by Davao in the Philippines (72.4) and Singapore (70.8).

United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi was named the safest city in the world with 88.8 points, followed by Qatar capital Doha (85.5) and Taiwanese capital Taipei (84.9). Continued …

Thailand’s unemployment rate drops to 1.2% as of November

A new census conducted by the National Statistical Office shows that the number of unemployed persons in Thailand has dropped by 95,000, with 620,000 new people entering the workforce.

Traisulee Traisoranakul, deputy government spokesperson, said on Sunday that statistics show that 39.82 million Thais were gainfully employed as of November last year, up by 620,000 from October.

She said the census found that Thailand has 58.73 million nationals who are at least 15 years old, and 40.36 million are at employment age. Of them, 39.82 million are employed and 460,000 are not. She said 18.37 million are outside the workforce, including housewives, students, and seniors. Continued …

Regulator eyes tariff on factories to boost clean energy

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is working on a “green tariff” that will determine the price of power bills for factory owners that need to use clean energy to achieve carbon neutrality.

Carbon neutrality means striking a balance between carbon dioxide emissions and absorption.

Details for tariff rates, which depend on types of renewable energy, are expected in April after the ERC announces the investors selected to join its 5,200-megawatt renewable scheme, said Khomgrich Tantravanich, secretary-general of the commission. Continued …

China-Laos-Thailand rail link plans up for talks

Thailand and Laos are in talks about the potential of a China-Laos-Thailand railway link that could reduce cargo transport costs by 30%-50% in three to five years, said the Department of Rail Transport (DRT) on Saturday.

Athipu Chitranukroh, deputy director-general of the DRT, and Kitjaluck Srinuchsart, deputy director-general of the Customs Department, visited Laos recently to discuss the matter.

The high-speed network will be developed alongside current infrastructure and benefit both Thailand and neighboring countries, observers say. Continued …

3-airport high-speed rail link completion seen by 2029

The Don Mueang–Suvarnabhumi–U-Tapao high-speed railway, officially known as the High-Speed Rail Linking Three Airports Project, is in progress and expected to be completed by 2029, government deputy spokesperson Tipanan Sirichana said on Sunday.

Tipanan said Prime Minister Prayut, as chair of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Committee, had expedited the construction of the project to ensure a modern, convenient, fast and seamless transport system linking the three airports.

The State Railaway of Thailand (SRT) and the EEC Committee have entered a contract with a private consortium to build the 220-kilometer railway at a cost of 224,544 million baht and operate the system for 50 years. Continued …

Mae Hong Son in dire condition – 135 fire hotspots so far

Northern Mae Hong Son province will likely see an increase in forest fires this year, with as many as 135 fire hotspots having been detected during Jan. 1-27.

The Forest Fire Control Center said it is Mae La Noi district where most of the hotspots were seen, totaling 36, but this is outstripped by 77 detected in the national forest reserve.

Where air quality is concerned, the Zone One Environment and Pollution Control Office said today’s PM2.5 pollution level in Mueang Mae Hong Son reached 39 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³) with 50 µg/m3 or higher considered poor air quality. Continued …

Pattaya’s revolutionary medical city moving ahead slowly

The 566 rai (one million square meters) former woodland area, now being excavated by Mabprachan Lake, is set to become a futuristic medical valley rather than a mere hospital. Part of the Eastern Economic Corridor initiative, Thammasat University has signed the deal with local and foreign investors to build an entirely new concept in medical hubs quite unlike any other development in Thailand or Southeast Asia.

The huge zone will include a hospital, clinic and residential areas for staff and patients, as well as promoting the latest smart technology to link all record keeping, screening tools, radiography information and laboratory research. There will also be a recreation park with international golf courses and development of premier housing estates by the private sector.

As Thailand’s population ages quickly while the birth rate continues to decline, the main purpose is to cater for affluent Thai and foreign nationals, especially seniors. Continued …

Russians dominate Phuket tourism revival

Phuket is experiencing a resurgence in tourism, with the number of visitors to the island reaching nearly 50% of pre-pandemic levels, according to the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Office in Phuket, Nantasiri Ronsiri.

According to the local TAT office, from January to December 2022, Phuket saw 9.26 million visitors, with 53.6% being domestic tourists and 46.4% being international tourists.

Ronsiri noted that foreign tourists contributed 70% of the entire revenue, while Thai tourists accounted for around 20%. The top 10 countries in terms of the number of arrivals to Phuket over the last year were Russia, India, Australia, England, Singapore, Germany, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, South Korea and the U.S. Continued …

14 rooms at Kanchanaburi river resort razed to the ground – everyone safe

Fire destroyed 14 of the 16 house rafts at a resort on the Khwae Noi river in Sai Yok district on Sunday afternoon, causing about 10 million baht damage. There were no casualties.

The fire at Saiyok Mantra Resort near Kaeng Pralom village in tambon Sai Yok began about 3.45pm, Police Capt. Kasan Para, a duty investigator at Sai Yok, said. Continued …

RTP says ‘trust us’ not social media in Taiwanese actress extortion case

The deputy spokesman for the Royal Thai Police spoke yesterday after a meeting concerning allegations made by Taiwanese actress An Yu Qing or Charlene An that she and three male friends were extorted of 27,000 baht in Bangkok on Jan. 4.

Huay Khwang in downtown Bangkok has been mentioned as the location of the alleged extortion incident in previous reports.

The case has caused a firestorm of controversy in both Thailand and Taiwan. It has been reported as damaging to the RTP, as well as Thai tourism, something admitted by the RTP itself. Continued …

Taiwanese actress who claimed extortion caught in lie on camera

Security camera footage from several locations in Bangkok shows the Taiwanese actress who claims Thai police extorted 27,000 baht from her after placing a vaping device in her hand using one before and after she was stopped at a checkpoint in the early hours of Jan. 5.

The actress, Charlene An, alleged on Taiwanese social media that she was forced to pay 27,000 baht to Thai police officers after they stopped a taxi she and her friends were traveling in at a checkpoint near the Chinese embassy at about 1 am on Jan. 5.

The actress told Taiwanese media that Thai police put a vaping device into her hand and that she did not know what it was. Continued …

First Songkran in Four Years in Pattaya Looking to be a Major Event

The first full Songkran in four years is looking to be a major event in Pattaya, as more events, festivals, concerts, and parties are announced.

Of course, this will be polarizing and divisive to many readers as although the event is popular with tourists it tends to be feared and despised by many ex-pats, who prior to COVID-19 often hunkered down for a week or even fled the city to avoid the water madness.

However, Songkran was entirely canceled in Thailand in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid-19 pandemic concerns. In 2022, only traditional religious events were allowed and “fun” events, like the world-famous water fights, were banned. The last full Songkran was four years ago, in 2019. Continued …

Illegal jet skis return to Phuket’s Surin Beach

For the umpteenth time, the local provincial marine office has started clamping down on illegal jet skis and parasail boats in the sea off Phuket’s Surin Beach.

Along Millionaire’s Row on the west coast, Phuket’s Surin Beach is surrounded by boutiques, high-end resorts and residences. It’s popular year-round, and an excellent spot for sunbathing on fine white sand, with the Andaman Sea stretching out before you. Its calm and clear waters are excellent for snorkeling and kayaking, as well as boogie-boarding and surfing.

The Phuket provincial administration wants to keep Surin beach free from all marine sports, so the public can swim in the sea without fear of being harmed by drunken hooligans on powerful machines. The beach is strictly off-limits to all motorized marine sports activities. Continued …

Exploring the National Parks of Thailand

Embark on an adventure to discover the hidden gems of Thailand’s national parks. From Kaeng Krachan, the largest in the country, to the picturesque limestone cliffs of Ao Phang Nga, there’s a diverse array of natural wonders to explore. Trek through lush rainforests, swim in sparkling waterfalls, spot wild elephants, tigers and leopards.

Dive and snorkel in the Andaman Sea for an unforgettable marine experience. Pack your bags and let’s go on a journey to explore the beauty of Thailand’s national parks.

Kaeng Krachan National Park

Covering an area of over 2,915 square kilometers, Kaeng Krachan is the largest national park in the country. It’s located near Hua Hin between Thailand’s Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces. Kaeng Krachan is home to an abundance of wildlife, including wild elephants, tigers, and leopards, as well as many species of birds and primates. Continued …

Sustainable tourism could look like this

“Help save the environment. Please reuse the towels.”

I can’t think of the last time I checked into a hotel that didn’t have some politely worded variation of that message, as if doing our small part is really even optional. And when I see such a message, I think about Koh Yao Noi.

Out in Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay — on the edge of an incredible natural aquatic preserve between tourist hotspots Phuket and Krabi — Koh Yao Noi (Little Long Island) is still largely a locals’ island, more focused on agriculture than becoming a bucket-list travel destination. There is no welcome center, nor scooters for hire awaiting visitors upon arrival; for that matter, the island is still only accessible by boat. Continued …

Over 80% of Thais have ‘hybrid immunity’ against Covid-19

More than 80% of the Thai population has developed “hybrid immunity” to the Covid-19 virus from a combination of vaccination and infection, Professor Yong Poovorawan said on Saturday.

More than 70% of the Thai population, or over 50 million people, were infected with Covid-19, while at least 80% of the population has been fully vaccinated (with at least two doses), the virologist wrote in a Facebook post.

“So, most of the population – over 80% – have developed hybrid immunity, which helps lessen the severity of disease, covering new mutations like XBB.1.5, which is expected to arrive soon,” the virologist wrote. Continued …

Challenges remain for women’s reproductive health in Asia Pacific

While the world has made many advancements in healthcare, millions of women and girls in low- and low-middle income countries are still far away from having bodily autonomy and are not able to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health. Continued …

Erdogan says Finland may join NATO without Sweden

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said for the first time Sunday that Ankara could accept Finland into NATO without its Nordic neighbor Sweden. Continued …

Boeing’s 747, the original jumbo jet, prepares for final send-off

Boeing’s 747, the original and arguably most aesthetic “Jumbo Jet”, revolutionized air travel only to see its more than five-decade reign as “Queen of the Skies” ended by more efficient twinjet planes. The last commercial Boeing jumbo will be delivered to Atlas Air in the surviving freighter version on Tuesday, 53 years after the 747’s instantly recognizable humped silhouette grabbed global attention as a Pan Am passenger jet. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Jan 23

1 Comment

  • International Charity Night Wednesday at Market Village/
  • Orchid Palm Homes Cup Feb 5/
  • Thailand’s exploited, vulnerable sex workers could soon be protected by law/
  • 11 die in passenger van crash/
  • Confidence in police plunges amidst policing scandals/
  • ‘Siren service’ for Chinese tourist lands 3 police officers in trouble/
  • ‘Kitty’ out to play in Kanchanaburi/
  • 2023: What’s in the Rabbit’s hat for you this year?/
  • Three faces of the Chinese rabbit you may not know/
  • British diver dies in mysterious circumstances on Koh Tao/
  • Govt to give away 100 million condoms to Thailand’s sexually active/
  • Thailand’s Japanese eateries rise 22%/
  • Tourism: Thailand among 23 ‘best places to visit’ in the world this year/Foreign Ministry to expand e-visa system for tourists/Chinese group tours arriving from Feb 6/Surat Thani to welcome first international chartered flight in 3 years/Chiang Mai expects up to 1 billion baht in tourist revenue during Chinese New Year/Phuket camp adds elephants for tourists to ride on/Does Phuket need 14 million tourists?/
  • Thailand Experience: Video: Surat Thani’s new hidden gem/Here’s what to do in Bangkok if you’ve only got 48 hours/Best Bangkok Local Food Stalls and Restaurants To Try/This Treepod Restaurant in Thailand Has Ziplining Servers and Unreal Views/Vegan and vegetarian options in Thai cuisine/
  • International: How climate change, smaller yields are affecting Asian rice production/Russia suffers 180,000 dead or wounded in Ukraine/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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Orchid Palm Homes Cup Feb 5

The Orchid Palm Homes Cup VII will be held at the Hua Hin International School in Black Mountain on Feb. 5. The 6-a-side tournament will feature eight under-10 teams.

Last year, the event featured under-13 teams. Eight teams have signed up, with Black Mountain and HHFA both sending two teams. Hua Hin City, Taptai, PP United and Nong Hoi will also be in action.

Thailand’s exploited, vulnerable sex workers could soon be protected by law

Many thousands of Thais have worked in the sex industry for decades without legal protection. So it’s not surprising that most of them are looking forward eagerly to the passage of the Sex Workers Protection Bill.

“With no legal shield at all, we are exploited both directly and indirectly,” said a 37-year-old sex worker.

In the 13 years she has been selling sexual services, she has witnessed operators use harsh tactics to control sex workers and ensure they keep bringing in the money. She pointed out that owners of venues where sex is traded must themselves pay officials under the table, as prostitution remains illegal in Thailand. Continued …

11 die in passenger van crash

Eleven people were killed and one injured when a passenger van drove into a roadside ditch and caught fire on the Friendship Highway in Sikhio district of Thailand’s northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima on Saturday night.

The only survivor, who managed to escape from the burning van, told Si Khieu district police that he boarded the van in Amnat Charoen, heading to Nakhon Pathom, and that there were 12 passengers, including himself, on board.

He said he did not know what happened because he was sleeping and woke up as the van was plunging into the ditch. Continued …

Confidence in police plunges amidst policing scandals

Most Thais lack confidence in the police, and less than 10% say they have plenty of confidence in them, according to a survey published on Sunday.

The survey was conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration from Jan. 18-20 – amidst high-profile scandals involving Thai police.

The institute said 1,310 people aged 18 and above responded to the survey nationwide. They represent a range of income and educational backgrounds, the institute said. It released the following summary of the survey: Continued …

‘Siren service’ for Chinese tourist lands 3 police officers in trouble

Two of the three police officers who allegedly provided “special services” to a Chinese social media “influencer” have been transferred, Royal Thai Police said.

Spokesman Police Maj-General Atchayon Kraithong said on Saturday that the National Police chief ordered an investigation into claims by the Chinese influencer that she received “special services” from Thai police – for a price. The tourist’s TikTok clip of her “special” police escort to Pattaya has gone viral.

The tourist claimed that upon arrival, she was fast-tracked through immigration and then rushed through traffic to her hotel in the resort town. The trip took only one hour when it can take up to three hours in traffic. Apparently, a police siren was used during the trip and she claims it cost her no more than 7,000 baht. Continued …

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‘Kitty’ out to play in Kanchanaburi

People living in communities near the Srinagarind Dam, in Si Sawat district of Kanchanaburi province, have been advised not to forage in the forest or allow their children to play near the dam after a tiger was recorded by CCTV walking on the top of the dam early on Sunday morning.

The tiger, identified as “SLT022” by its stripes, is confirmed to have come from the Salak Phra forest, according to Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary chief, Paitoon Indharabut.

SLT022 was spotted at about 2am walking along the crest of the dam, said Paitoon, as he explained that the big cat might have used the same route previously, but had not been captured by the CCTV system before. Continued …

2023: What’s in the Rabbit’s hat for you this year?

The Rabbit has hopped into our lives for 2023, and with its Water element it brings “hope” for a peaceful and prosperous year. According to the Chinese zodiac, the luckiest signs this year will be the Ox, Tiger and Snake, followed by Dogs, Horses, Sheep and Pigs.

Poor Roosters and Monkeys will need to work really hard to make headway in 2023, while the fortunes of the Rabbit and Rat may face turmoil from Tai Sui, or the “Grand Duke of Jupiter”.

Here’s a quick look at how the gentle Water Rabbit may affect you this year, according to your birth sign: Continued …

Three faces of the Chinese rabbit you may not know

The Year of the Rabbit should not just conjure images of lithe, fluffy Peter Rabbits or Judy from Zootopia.

As China ushers in the Year of the Rabbit, a variety of bunnies have stormed the country’s shopping malls, parks and social media platforms. Clad in golden armor, riding on ferocious tigers or holding herb-pounding pestles, some may be less recognizable for non-Chinese rabbit lovers.

On the eve of the ChineseLunar Ne ear, which fstarted yesterday, Xinhua has rounded up some of the most famed rabbits in China and is offering explanations of their changing symbolism in modern-day China. Continued …

British diver dies in mysterious circumstances on Koh Tao

A British man was found dead on Thailand‘s notorious Koh Tao – also known as Death Island – on Wednesday. The circumstances around his death are a mystery.

The body of 48-year-old diving instructor Neil Giblin, from Birmingham, UK, was found dead in his rented bungalow on the island after he failed to turn up to a diving lesson.

Police say that he died from natural causes and there was no sign of struggle. Continued … 

Govt to give away 100 million condoms to Thailand’s sexually active

In a bid to crack down on unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, and HIV, the government is giving away free condoms to holders of the 30-baht universal healthcare card.

The National Health Security Office (NHSO) intends to distribute about 100 million condoms to sexually active holders of 30-baht universal healthcare cards.

NHSO Secretary-General Dr. Chadet Thammathat-aree made known that the condoms, along with lubricating gel, will be distributed via the Paotang application starting from Feb. 1. Continued … 

Thailand’s Japanese eateries rise 22%

The number of Japanese eateries in Thailand rose by more than 20% last year, and they are poised to continue dominating the restaurant market, outpacing foreign peers.

According to the latest market survey by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the number of Japanese restaurants in Thailand in 2022 increased by 21.9%, or 955, from the year before to 5,325, the highest growth in 15 years.

The number of Japanese restaurants in Bangkok’s surrounding provinces and other provinces, in particular, posted remarkable growth. Continued …

Thailand among 23 ‘best places to visit’ in the world this year

Thailand has been included in this year’s Insider.com list of 23 best travel destinations in the world.

In an article published on Jan. 1, the website’s news and lifestyle editor Alesandra Dubin explained what these 23 destinations had to offer, though she did not rank them in a “best of” category.

Thailand was the 12th destination to be mentioned after Bhutan, Western Australia, the Cayman Islands, Dubai, France’s Loire Valley, Japan, Las Vegas, Bali in Indonesia, Merida in Mexico, Canouan Island in the Caribbean, and Turkey. Continued …

Foreign Ministry to expand e-visa system for tourists

The government has assigned the Foreign Ministry to further refine the e-visa system so that tourists from all nations can apply for entry visas more conveniently, a government spokeswoman said on Sunday.

Deputy government spokeswoman Trisulee Trisaranakul said the Foreign Ministry has been told to expand the capacity of the e-visa system so that it can handle the increasing number of foreign tourists who want to use it.

Trisulee said the government wanted to treat foreign tourists from all countries with the same standards and the number of foreign arrivals was rising – especially after the Chinese government ended its quarantine requirements. Continued …

Chinese group tours arriving from Feb 6

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed the Transport, Public Health and Tourism and Sport ministries to take appropriate steps to cope with increased arrivals from China, as the Chinese government has decided to allow group tours to visit 20 countries, including Thailand, effective from Feb. 6.

The other 19 countries are Indonesia, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Lao PRD, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Russia, Switzerland, Hungary, New Zealand, Fiji, Cuba and Argentina.

Deputy government spokesperson Traisuree Traisoranakul said that the China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism has imposed a set of measures with which Chinese local administrations, tour agencies and Chinese tourists are required to comply.

Chinese tour companies, she said, have been instructed to comply strictly with Chinese health measures, and those of destination countries, and urge their customers to undergo COVID screening before departure. Continued …

Surat Thani to welcome first international chartered flight in 3 years

The southern tourist province of Surat Thani will welcome its first international chartered flight since the pandemic, which will land with about 180 visitors from Taiwan.

Surat Thani Gov. Wichawut Jinto said on Sunday that the fully booked Thai Lion Air flight SL-7391 from Taiwan would arrive at Surat Thani airport this evening. Continued …

Chiang Mai expects up to 1 billion baht in tourist revenue during Chinese New Year

Chiang Mai has been bustling with both Thai and Chinese tourists during the Chinese New Year break, with many hotels boasting 90% occupancy.

The northern capital also expects to earn as much as 1 billion baht in revenue during this period.

This year, Chiang Mai is holding the Trok Lao Zho festival in Chinatown, while the municipality has also set up the Warorat Market in Muang district. The city, where most residents are ethnic Chinese, has burst into color for Chinese New Year after celebrations were suspended for two years during the pandemic. Continued … 

An elephant being “trained” for tourism

Phuket camp adds elephants for tourists to ride on

Chinese tourists are returning to Thailand, and with it, operators at elephant sanctuaries and shows are expecting a swell in customers. The Pang Chang Kamala Elephant Camp in Phuket has recently bought six new elephants to keep up with the rise in bookings after the Lunar New Year.

The camp offers a variety of activities for the new tourists streaming in. They offer activities such as elephant showers, as well as new programs such as elephant care. They also offer the often controversial elephant ride, which many argue constitutes animal cruelty and abuse.

Camp owner Wittaya Taweeros explained that they have increased the number of elephants, with the new six making a total of 25 elephants on-site. This allows the elephant camp to accommodate up to 300 guests per day, a significant increase from 200 customers a day previously. Continued … 

Does Phuket need 14 million tourists?

Assistant Professor Dr. Chayanon Phucharoen, deputy dean for research and graduate studies, Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism, Prince of Songkla University (PSU) Phuket campus, this week asked the most pressing question currently facing Phuket: Does Phuket need 14 million tourists? Continued …

Video: Surat Thani’s new hidden gem

Explore the crystal-clear waters of Ban Nam Rad Headwaters Forest, Surat Thani’s sparkling hidden gem. And stop to pay respect at the Surat Thani City Hall for good luck! VIDEO 

Here’s what to do in Bangkok if you’ve only got 48 hours

Clocking in at 10.7 million residents, Bangkok is an incredible, massive undertaking of a city. A seemingly endless sprawl of low-rise buildings punctuated by massive skyscrapers and tranquil temples, delicious food and bustling bars everywhere, there is an endless range of ways one could spend their days exploring what BKK has to offer.

Sadly, most Thailand tourism consists of travelers who are only stopping by Bangkok for a couple of days on their way into or out of the country. So what is one to do when they only have 48 hours in Bangkok?

One of the main challenges to experiencing the city in a short burst involves the sheer size of the place and the traffic that tends to inundate it, which makes it difficult to get anywhere fast, unless it happens to be along a Sky Train route. Continued …

Tom Yum Mama

Best Bangkok Local Food Stalls and Restaurants To Try

Many come to the Land of Smiles for various reasons, shopping for most, Thai massage for some, but for the Pandas, it is definitely the food. Be it fine dining, to local Thai fares, Bangkok has a lot to offer. Though, unlike the ever-changing cafe scene, the local food has much more to offer, including some institutions which we are only slowly to discover. Here is an ever-expanding list of recommended local Thai restaurants to check out.

Jeh O Chula

Perhaps the most popular and Instagram-worthy restaurant on this list, Jeh O Chula is basically a local Thai eatery serving up affordable comfort food. Their signature dish has to be the Tom Yum Mama, where you will find a big pot of instant noodles in Tom Yum broth together with a myriad of ingredients including prawns, cuttlefish, crispy pork belly, meatballs, and the raw eggs right in the middle. This is the perfect noodle after a long day out shopping in Bangkok, or for that late night supper. Continued …

This Treepod Restaurant in Thailand Has Ziplining Servers and Unreal Views

We are elevating higher, climbing toward the top of the forest. Our host pulls a lever to raise our bamboo treepod, where we’re lounging on canvas-cushioned seats, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.

Suddenly, a man who appears to be our dinner server — dressed in khaki and a harness — swiftly ziplines to a wooden footboard melded into a nearby Singapore Almond tree. There, we dangle mid-air as he gathers plates to serve into our levitating booth.

Safeguarded by harvested bamboo, the tableware stays put while the pod sways with the ocean breeze. Slipping through the ancient rainforest, dodging branches and the dangers of towering heights, the host seems to imitate Indiana Jones. Continued …

Vegan and vegetarian options in Thai cuisine

Thai cuisine is renowned for its rich, flavorful dishes. But did you know that it is also surprisingly abundant in vegan and vegetarian options?

While many dishes are traditionally made with meat and fish, there are plenty of Thai vegan and vegetarian food available. From noodles to curries, there is something for everyone no matter what your dietary preference.

Thai vegetarian food is mouth-watering and packed with an array of spices and herbs. Whether you are looking for something light and refreshing or something more substantial, Thai cuisine has it all. So, let’s explore the delicious Thai vegan and vegetarian options that Thai cuisine has to offer! Continued … 

How climate change, smaller yields are affecting Asian rice production

In 2022, Thailand’s Hom Mali rice lost its title of the World’s Best Rice to Cambodia’s Phka Rumduol grain, marking an embarrassing defeat for the crop often touted as the pride of the nation. Continued …

Russia suffers 180,000 dead or wounded in Ukraine

Russia has suffered 180,000 killed or wounded in Ukraine so far, while the figure for the Ukrainians is 100,000 military casualties and 30,000 dead civilians, according to estimates released Sunday by Norway’s army chief. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

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