Category Archives: thai food

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, 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

cha am, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Jan 25

  • Cha Am pedestrian overpass finally completed/Fine increased for zebra crossing violations/New wall for Hua Hin Hospital to mute train sounds/February flight schedule for Hua Hin AirportThailand Open at True Arena starts Saturday/Krung Thep Aphiwat: All aboard the ‘smart’ future of Thai rail travel/Budget for four more months of power subsidy approved/Songkran on UNESCO list as intangible cultural heritage/80 immigration police face charges for accepting money to extend visas/Malaysian victims accuse Royal Thai Police of soliciting bribes of over 100,000 baht/Bangkok administration urges working from home due to air quality/Thai military’s ties to Myanmar junta compromising efforts to resolve crisis/Thailand’s 50 Richest in 2023/Thai exports fell for third successive month in December/Record-breaking year for Thai movie industry/Thief leaves an apology note in Chiang Mai/Thailand, US team on climate change initiative/MP says cannabis helps reduce meth addicts in Bangkok/
  • Tourism: More European tourists than Chinese in Hua Hin/Thailand Sees About 25%-30% of Chinese Tour Group Bookings/Thailand VIP packages offered on Chinese e-commerce platform/Outcry over police VIP airport escort service/Chinese New Year generates at least 2.6B baht in tourism revenue for Phuket/Cabinet approves 5th phase of tourism subsidy scheme/
  • Thailand Experience: 20+ places to check out in Bangkok’s Chinatown/Cooking Thai food at home: Tips and tricks/
  • Covid: Covid-19 vaccine available for foreigners nationwide/
  • International: US poised to approve sending Abrams tanks to Ukraine/
  • 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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H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

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Cha Am pedestrian overpass finally completed

A pedestrian overpass has finally opened in Cha Am, built over safety concerns for Hup Khapong villagers, especially school children crossing Phetchakasim Road. It took 19 years, but yesterday officials welcomed the opening of the overpass. Many agencies and local people cooperated for the project to be completed to reduce road accidents and increase safety in the area. (RCR)

Fine increased for zebra crossing violations

Motorists who fail to stop their vehicles for pedestrians at zebra crossings face a maximum fine of 4,000 baht and have one point deducted from their driving license immediately under the new law.

Previously, the fine was 1,000 baht.

Deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the new law, which was put into effect on Jan. 9, increases penalties and adopts the point deduction system to ensure the safety of pedestrians at zebra crossings. Continued …

New wall for Hua Hin Hospital to mute train sounds

A new wall is being constructed behind Hua Hin Hospital, which will result in a one-way traffic system from Jan. 26.

The concrete wall be built between Soi 10 and Soi 14.

The ‘sound proof wall’ is being built to reduce the impact of noise from the new train line.

Thailand Open at True Arena starts Saturday

Krung Thep Aphiwat: All aboard the ‘smart’ future of Thai rail travel

Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal was touted as the “smart” future of rail travel in Thailand on Tuesday, days after it took over as the national hub from the century-old Hua Lamphong station.

Krung Thep Aphiwat “is considered the first smart railway station in ASEAN, with facilities, such as robots called SRT Bots, smart wheelchairs and smart closed-circuit television cameras,” government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said.

It also connects with Bangkok’s urban train and bus system to provide seamless travel links to the rest of the city, he added. Continued …

Budget for four more months of power subsidy approved

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved a budget of 7.5 billion baht as subsidy for household use of electricity for four more months.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said the subsidy would be given to household users of electricity from January to April.

A household must not use more than 300 units of electricity to be eligible for the subsidy, he added. Continued …

Songkran on UNESCO list as intangible cultural heritage

UNESCO has included the Songkran festival in a tentative list to be considered as Thailand’s intangible cultural heritage.

Thailand now has four items awaiting consideration at the end of this year — Khon, traditional Thai massage, Nora, and Songkran.

Intangible cultural heritage is considered by member states of UNESCO in relation to the tangible World Heritage focusing on intangible aspects of culture. Continued …

80 immigration police face charges for accepting money to extend visas

About 80 immigration police officers, including three generals, face disciplinary and criminal charges for allegedly extending visas for Chinese nationals involved in “gray’ businesses in Thailand in exchange for financial gain, according to Police Gen. Surachate Hakparn, the deputy national police chief.

He said all the suspects have been questioned and police investigators are expected to meet on Monday to conclude the case and submit the findings to the police inspector-general for further action.

He maintains that there are no exceptions being made for the three police generals allegedly involved, despite the fact that they were his classmates at the police academy, noting that their cases will also be sent to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Continued …

Malaysian victims accuse Royal Thai Police of soliciting bribes of over 100,000 baht

Two Malaysian victims told local media that corrupt Royal Thai Police solicited bribes of 100,000 baht to return their stolen cars, which were taken from their native country and driven to Thailand.

The Malaysian news agency, The Star, reported that the cars were stolen from Malaysia and shipped to Thailand. The media also added that RTP officers were involved in the car smuggling. Continued …

Bangkok administration urges working from home due to air quality

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has sought cooperation from the public and private sectors by allowing their staff to work from home tomorrow, in anticipation of poor air quality in the city, which may reach health-threatening levels.

BMA officials and the Pollution Control Department met on Tuesday to discuss the air pollution problem, caused by the accumulation of PM2.5 dust in the atmosphere, which is likely to worsen on Thursday due poor air circulation.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt said that the amount of PM2.5 in the atmosphere in the capital has been increasing over the past two days, although the situation improved slightly Tuesday due to strong winds. Continued …

Thai military’s ties to Myanmar junta compromising efforts to resolve crisis

Thailand’s lenient stance, as well as the close ties between its armed forces and the Myanmar military — also known as Tatmadaw — would undermine the efforts of ASEAN and the international community to ease the ongoing crisis in that country, according to many independent observers.

Thousands of people have died in the neighboring country and over a million have been displaced since a military coup on Feb. 1, 2021.

The latest move that raised eyebrows in international circles was a meeting between the chief of Thailand’s Defense Forces, Chalermphon Srisawasdi, and Minister Aung Hlaing, the top commander of the Tatmadaw, at a resort in Myanmar’s strife-torn Rakhine state from Jan. 19-21. Continued …

Thailand’s 50 Richest in 2023

Thailand is home to a number of extremely wealthy individuals, many of whom have made their fortunes through a variety of industries including real estate, finance, and retail. As of 2023, the 50 richest persons in Thailand have a combined net worth of over $150 billion.

Leading the list is Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, a Thai businessman and founder of the TCC Group, one of Thailand’s largest conglomerates. With a net worth of $9.8 billion, Sirivadhanabhakdi has a diverse portfolio that includes real estate, beverages, and retail.

Coming in second is Dhanin Chearavanont, the chairman of the Charoen Pokphand Group, one of the largest conglomerates in Thailand, with interests in agriculture, retail, and telecommunications. Chearavanont has a net worth of $9.1 billion. Continued … 

Thai exports fell for third successive month in December

Thai exports fell for a third consecutive month in December, but the 2022 total rose 5.5% year-on-year to US$287.06 billion (9.406 trillion baht), according to the Commerce Ministry.

Total imports last year rose 13.6%, leading to a trade deficit of $16.122 billion (528.56 billion baht).

December saw exports contract 14.6% year-on-year, while imports shrank 12%, generating a trade deficit of US$1.03 billion (33.85 billion baht). Continued …

Record-breaking year for Thai movie industry

The Thailand Film Office (TFO) reported 2022 was a record-breaking year for the Thai movie industry despite a sluggish start to the new calendar year because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The TFO compiled a list of impressive statistics for filming foreign movies in the Land of Smiles for 2022.

It recorded that film crews shot 348 different types of movies and generated a record-breaking 6.4 billion baht, the highest since the TFO collected foreign film shooting statistics in Thailand. Continued … 

Thief leaves an apology note in Chiang Mai

A thief stole over 12,000 baht from an electrical appliances store in Chiang Mai province in northern Thailand on Sunday morning and left behind a note apologizing for his crime.

CCTV footage captures a masked assailant, a man estimated to be around 30 years old, breaking into an electrical appliance store next to Wat Tha Mai-i Temple in Chiang Mai’s Mueang district at 1am. Continued …

Thailand, US team on climate change initiative

U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert Godec and Dr. Karen M. St. Germain, Earth Science Division director at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), have launched the SERVIR-Southeast Asia program – a collaboration between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and NASA – to help communities across Southeast Asia adapt to regional and transboundary climate issues and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

“This new program expands the geographic focus of SERVIR in Southeast Asia and deepens our engagement with regional institutions to accelerate climate resilience,” said Godec. “SERVIR-Southeast Asia will go a long way to ensure that communities and businesses throughout Thailand and across ASEAN are not only resilient to the impacts of climate change, but prosper in spite of these challenges.” Continued … 

MP says cannabis helps reduce meth addicts in Bangkok

Bhumjaithai Party MP Suphachai Jaismut says the legalizing of cannabis has led to a decrease in the use of methamphetamine (also known as Yaba) in Bangkok.

The Bhumjaithai Party MP admitted that he never expected legalizing cannabis would decrease the use of methamphetamine. He initially focused on its potential medical benefits and didn’t consider this possible outcome.

However, he stated that he had come to believe in the connection between cannabis legalization and decreased Yaba use based on information provided to him by community leaders. Continued … 

More European tourists than Chinese in Hua Hin

More European tourists are making their way back to Thailand’s coastal paradise of Hua Hin than Chinese tourists, according to officials. The vice president of the Thai Hotel Assn. Said most of Hua Hin’s tourists are European, from Scandinavia, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and Germany.

The vice president,Udo m Srimahachota, said the number of foreign tourists is expected to rise throughout the year. He said the number of Chinese tourists will be small compared to the number of tourists from other countries. He noted that Chinese tourists prefer to visit Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket.

Udom said foreign tourists now make up around 60% of all tourists in Hua Hin, Thai media reported. He said foreign tourists flooded Hua Hin’s beaches, hotels, restaurants, and gift shops this past weekend. Continued …

Thailand Sees About 25%-30% of Chinese Tour Group Bookings

After China approved overseas group tours to resume to several countries, including Thailand, from Feb. 6, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has seen about 25%-30% of Chinese tour group bookings.

TAT deputy governor of marketing for Asia and South Pacific, Thanet Phetsuwan, said Thailand is among 20 countries approved by China for outbound tour groups.

The TAT joined hands with leading Chinese tour agencies to prepare for tour package sales in major cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Kunming next month. Continued …

Thailand VIP packages offered on Chinese e-commerce platform

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) insists no VIP service packages, or fast passes, have been made available for purchase in China, despite a Thai travel blogger revealing that those services and elite visas are indeed available to buy on the Chinese e-commerce platform Taobao.

Thai police are already under fire over the video of three police officers escorting a female Chinese tourist and her mother from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to a hotel in Pattaya.

The Chinese woman stated in the video that she booked an airport transfer service with an agency and that agency urged her to pay more to get a better, more convenient service provided by the Royal Thai Police (RTP). Continued …

Outcry over police VIP airport escort service

Tourism operators have slammed the Thai police VIP escort service sold online in China, saying the move severely damaged the image of Thailand.
Continued …

Chinese New Year generates at least 2.6B baht in tourism revenue for Phuket

The Tourism Authority of Thailand says Phuket generated at least 2.6 billion baht in tourism revenue during the recent Chinese New Year holiday. This will come as a much-needed boost for the island’s recovering tourism sector, which was crippled by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The real test will now be if the return of Chinese travelers extends past the Chinese New Year holiday, but new flights are being added each week, so a slow rise of Chinese tourism is expected throughout this year.

Nanthasiri Ronnasiri, director of the TAT’s Phuket office, says the island welcomed 150,000 domestic and international tourists during the recent Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) holiday. Continued …

Cabinet approves 5th phase of tourism subsidy scheme

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved the fifth phase of the tourism subsidy scheme, with a budget of 2.016 billion baht, Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after the weekly Cabinet meeting, Phiphat said the Cabinet had approved the fifth phase of the Rao Thiew Duay Kan (We Travel Together) scheme, as well the budget for the subsidy.

Phiphat said the government expected to allow Thai tourists to register for the subsidy from next month. The ministry forecast that the subsidy rights would be grabbed by some 112,000 people and the program would generate tourism revenue of 12.539 billion baht. Continued …

20+ places to check out in Bangkok’s Chinatown

From a legendary 60-year-old braised goose stall and an authentic Hakka hole-in-the-wall to emerging hip businesses, there’s a side of Chinatown that retains and extends its charm.

Soi Song Wat, a historic road in the capital’s old town, is also a lesser-known hidden gem great for foodies and arts and culture fiends. The road’s name, which literally means “drawn by the king,” was built during the reign of King Rama V, who ordered the road’s construction (it’s said that the king himself wrote the line with a pencil on the map).

The century-old road runs along the Chao Phraya River for one kilometer and contains a mix of old and new — from colonial-style shophouses, street food stalls and long-standing restaurants to modern hostels, minimalist cafes, and laid-back bars. It can be reached from MRT Sam Yot or MRT Wat Mangkon. Continued …

Cooking Thai food at home: Tips and tricks

Do you love Thai food? Have you ever wanted to try and cook it at home? Well, you’re in luck! Thai food is incredibly flavorful, and it’s not as difficult to make as you might think. Here are some tips and tricks to help you cook Thai food in your own kitchen.

The first thing you need to do is to make sure that your pantry is well-stocked with the essential Thai ingredients so you’ll be ready to cook authentic Thai dishes whenever you like. Remember, Thai food is sweet, salty, and sour. In order to achieve this balance of flavors, you’ll need all the right ingredients. Here is a list of must-have ingredients to cook authentic Thai food.

1. Fish sauce

First, you need to make sure you have fish sauce, which is made from fermented fish. This is an essential ingredient used in many Thai dishes. It has a salty, umami flavor and is used to add depth to dishes such as curries, stir-fries, and noodles. If you can’t find fish sauce, you can use soy sauce as a substitute. Continued …

Covid-19 vaccine available for foreigners nationwide

The Public Health Ministry plans for at least one Covid-19 vaccination center per province for foreign tourists paying for shots, while foreign residents will continue to get free jabs. Continued …

US poised to approve sending Abrams tanks to Ukraine

The United States, in a reversal, is poised to start a process that would eventually send dozens of M1 Abrams battle tanks to Ukraine, two U.S. officials said Tuesday. Such a decision by the United States would come just days after Washington argued against sending the Abrams, despite demands from Kyiv and public pressure from Berlin as it faced calls to send German-made Leopard battle tanks. 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, covid, hua hin, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-Jan 24

  • Thailand’s weather turns cooler/
  • Has your phone been hacked? Here’s how you can check/
  • How long can a healthy human live?/
  • Thailand hopes to conclude free-trade agreement with EU/
  • Man sleeps in tent with deadly cobra all night/
  • Tourism: 8.6 million tourists to PKK in a year/Chinese national, tour operator to be questioned in police escort scandal/Thailand to use the “5Fs” of soft power to promote tourism/Thailand’s dependence on tourism means losing passport wars/Inequity in travel restrictions handicaps those legally traveling from ‘global south’/
  • Thailand Experience: Exploring the streets of Thailand: A foodie’s guide to street food/
  • Covid: Airport testing shows Covid numbers on arrival ‘very low’, departures not so good/
  • International: Myanmar rebels attack town near Thailand border/China key to aviation’s recovery/Kremlin says Ukrainians will suffer if Europe sends tanks/Erdogan warns Sweden on NATO after Koran burning/Vinyl records sales boom in Singapore, worldwide/Sea spiders can regrow body parts, not just limbs/
  • 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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Thailand’s weather turns cooler

With the exception of the south, the rest of Thailand will experience colder weather from today, with temperatures forecast to drop from 3-5oC, Thailand’s Meteorological Department reported this morning.

The colder weather is attributable to the arrival of a new and strong cold front from China, now covering northern Laos and Vietnam, which is forecast to spread to Thailand’s north and northeast this afternoon.

In the north, the mercury is predicted to fall by 1-3oC, with minimum temperatures ranging from 11-14oC in the low lands and 2-10oC in mountainous areas. Frost may form in some places. Continued …

Has your phone been hacked? Here’s how you can check

The Police Cyber Taskforce has released advice on how Android smartphone users can check to see if their phone is being controlled by hackers remotely.

The advice was issued on Monday in response to reports that many smartphone users had fallen prey to hackers.

This usually happens when a user unwittingly downloads an application that installs malware in their phone. Continued …

How long can a healthy human live?

The death of the world’s oldest person at the age of 118 has reignited a debate that has divided scientists for centuries: is there a limit on how long a healthy human can live?

After French nun Lucile Randon died last week, Spanish great-grandmother Maria Branyas Morera, 115, has assumed the title of the oldest living person, according to Guinness World Records.

Back in the 18th century, French naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc, known as the Comte de Buffon, theorized that a person who had not suffered an accident or illness could live for a theoretical maximum of 100 years. Continued …

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Thailand hopes to conclude free-trade agreement with EU

The European Union is ready to open free-trade agreement (FTA) talks with Thailand again after an eight-year political impasse.

Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Jurin Laksanawisit, will head to Brussels tomorrow for a two-day business trip to accelerate talks on an FTA with the EU.

Jurin states that a Thai-EU FTA is a highly sought-after deal by the private sector, but it remains a distant goal. Continued … 

Man sleeps in tent with deadly cobra all night

A Thai man is lucky to be alive after sleeping in a tent all night with a venomous cobra in Rayong province, eastern Thailand.

Dacha, from the northern province of Phitsanulok, posted photos yesterday of a snake slithering out of the tent he dissembled moments earlier at the Dok Krai reservoir in Rayong province.

He wrote the message, “It’s almost gone. I suspect that it slept with me all night. I just saw it as I took down the tent this morning.” Continued … 

8.6 million tourists to PKK in a year

Over the past year, a total of 8.6 million tourists (Thai and foreigners) visited Prachuap Khiri Khan, which generated more than 30 million baht in revenue, according to data from the Economic Division Department of Tourism.

Udom Srimahachota, vice president of the Thai Hotel Assn. (Western region), says foreign tourists currently account for approximately 60% of all tourists visiting the district. The majority of foreigners visiting Hua Hin are from Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and Germany, he said.

Most of the foreign tourists are elderly people and those with families.

The number of Chinese tourists visiting will be insignificant compared to tourists from other countries, Udom said, because they prefer Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Phuket.

Chinese national, tour operator to be questioned in police escort scandal

A tour operator and a Chinese tourist are to be invited in for questioning over controversial and unauthorized police escorts provided by Thai tourist and traffic police officers.

Police Maj-Gen. Archayon Kraithong, spokesman for the Royal Thai Police, said on Monday that two traffic police officers and a tourist police officer are now under investigation by their respective agencies for providing an escort to a female Chinese tourist.

He said that the tourist police officer, Captain Somphol Pinyosamosorn, picked up the Chinese tourist at Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok and escorted her, through a special immigration channel, out of the airport to a waiting car, which was then escorted by a traffic police officer on his motorcycle to her hotel in Bangkok. Continued …

Thailand to use the “5Fs” of soft power to promote tourism

Thailand plans to make full use of its soft power, which includes Thai boxing and food, in the hope of attracting more tourists to visit Thailand this year.

Acting government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said on Monday that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed all relevant government agencies to promote the tourism sector through the use of Thailand’s “5Fs”, which include Thai food, Thai films, Thai fashion, Thai boxing and Thai festivals.

For Thai food, Anucha said that the government will declare 2023 as the “Year of Thai Gastronomy”, during which the Bangkok International Food Festival will be held. The concept of “walking streets” will also be expanded. Continued … 

Thailand’s dependence on tourism means losing passport wars

For foreigners from the so-called “global north” traveling to Thailand, for the most part, they can just come whenever they please without the need of a visa for stays ranging from 45 to 90 days.

Yes, this includes travelers from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Schengen member states, whose governments all make it an ordeal for Thais to get a visa to go the opposite direction. The European Union claims that its policy is to achieve full reciprocity with non-EU countries so that citizens of both parties can travel easily.

While EU citizens have been able to travel to Thailand visa-free for as long as I can remember, there has been absolutely no signs that the EU intends to begin liberalizing visa requirements to the Schengen area for Thai nationals. Continued …

Inequity in travel restrictions handicaps those legally traveling from ‘global south’

This is not about pandemic travel restrictions. This is not about how expensive “global north” destinations are for Thai salaries. This is also not about the dangers of experiencing racial discrimination while traveling in white-majority countries.

This is about the endless bureaucratic and legal nightmare that haunts any Thai national who dares to travel abroad: applying for a visa.

As new iterations of “passport indexes” surface each year, they never fail to become a sensation on Thai social media or in the press that the “power” of the Thai passport continues to lag far behind that of other Asian countries or our ASEAN neighbors. According to the Henley Passport Index, the Thai passport ranks 68thfor travel convenience with visa-free access to 78 countries. Continued …

Exploring the streets of Thailand: A foodie’s guide to street food

Do you call yourself a foodie? Looking for a culinary adventure? Then you’ll love exploring the streets of Thailand! From the bustling night markets to the fragrant street stalls, Thailand is a foodie’s paradise.

In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the best street food that Thailand has to offer. So get ready for a delicious exploration of Thai street food.

First of all, let’s talk about what Thai street food is and why it’s so popular. Thai street food is food that is cooked in public areas and sold to people who are looking for a quick and tasty meal. It’s usually served on the side of the road, in food stalls, and even from carts. Street food is popular in Thailand because it’s cheap, convenient, and full of flavor. Continued … 

Airport testing shows Covid numbers on arrival ‘very low’, departures not so good

Five international travelers who arrived in the kingdom in the past two weeks tested positive for Covid-19, while 300-400 departing travelers, including Thais, were infected with the virus, according to health authorities.

In the second week of this month, following the arrival of the first travelers from China on Jan. 9, three foreign travelers were found to have the Covid-19 virus. Last week, another two infections, one of them from China, were discovered among international arrivals, according to Department of Disease Control (DoDC) director-general Tares Krassanairawiwong.

The government will maintain its current measures to safeguard against infections and continue to monitor the virus situation closely, he said. “There’s no cause for concern,” he added. Continued …

Myanmar rebels attack town near Thailand border

Thick smoke and flames were seen billowing above Myanmar’s Payathonzu township, opposite Sangkhla Buri district, as rebels attacked governmnt installations there on Monday night. Continued …

China key to aviation’s recovery

Asia-Pacific aviation could see faster recovery in terms of passengers this year, fueled by China’s reopening, as well as achieving a small profit in 2024, while pent-up demand from the mainland could help compensate slowing Western markets, according to the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA). Continued …

Kremlin says Ukrainians will suffer if Europe sends tanks

The Kremlin said on Monday that the Ukrainian people would suffer if the West sent tanks to support Kyiv, as the question of whether German-made Leopard tanks will be transferred to Ukraine remained unresolved. Continued …

Erdogan warns Sweden on NATO after Koran burning

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Sweden on Monday that it should not expect his backing to join NATO following the burning of the Koran outside Ankara’s embassy in Stockholm. Continued …

Vinyl records sales boom in Singapore, worldwide

People in Singapore may be eying a new record. No, like, actually looking at an actual record. According to a report by Luminate Data, a provider of data for the music industry, vinyl record sales have steadily grown for over a decade. This growth can be seen in the increasing number of record shops popping up in areas such as Kampung Glam, Peninsula Plaza, and Joo Chiat in Singapore. Continued … 

Sea spiders can regrow body parts, not just limbs

Sea spiders can regrow body parts after amputation and not just limbs, according to a study released on Monday that may pave the way for further scientific research into regeneration. 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 …

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

‘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 …

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

Tuesday’s News-Jan 17

  • Thailand plans to extend 45-day visa-free stays until year end/
  • Prachuap Khiri Khan beach was the most searched for in Thailand in 2022/
  • EXAT ramps up Koh Samui bridge plan/
  • Will the driver’s license point system work?/
  • Three generals among 80 immigration police charged in triad visa scam/
  • Why house lizards have adapted to your home/
  • Thailand among 25 countries with least paid leave days/
  • Video: School teacher taken down by female gold shop staff after failed heist/
  • Southern Thai man strikes gold with rare cobra encounter/
  • Tanker explodes, 8 dock workers missing/
  • Gold price to reach eight-month high/
  • Tourism: China market poised to surge in Q4/This Is How Much Money You’ll Need Per Day In Thailand/Phuket’s new year tourist surge levels off/Dental tourism’s top destinations around the world/
  • Thailand Experience: Thailand’s Dragon Temple Is Real, & Here’s How To Get There/Carpet of lilies lures visitors to Nong Han lake in Udon Thani/What Will You Learn At Thailand’s Sanctuary Of Truth?/
  • Covid: Thailand’s Covid-19 hospitalizations drop, but deaths rise in 2nd week of 2023/Video: Will the Lunar New Year worsen China’s COVID surge?/
  • International: 73% of CEOs around the world say global economic growth will decline this year/Italy arrests Sicilian Mafia boss after 30 years on the run/Russian Strike On Ukraine Apartment Building Kills At Least 40/China’s population shrinks for first time since 1960/Runaway West Antarctic ice sheet collapse not ‘inevitable’/
  • 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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Thailand plans to extend 45-day visa-free stays until year end

The Tourism Authority of Thailand will propose extending the 45-day visa exemption on arrival policy until the end of the year to boost tourism recovery.

In September last year, Thailand’s Cabinet approved the temporary extension of visa on arrival and visa exemption on arrival for the high season.

Between Oct. 1, 2022 – March 31, 2023, foreign tourists arriving in Thailand are eligible to stay in the kingdom as follows depending on their passport country. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan beach was the most searched for in Thailand in 2022

Bo Thong Lang Bay beach in Prachuap Khiri Khan has been revealed as the most searched for in Thailand, according to data released by Google. The bay, which is located in Bang Saphan, received more direction requests than beaches located in provinces such as Surat Thani, Krabi and Phuket. Part of the attraction of Bo Thong Lang Bay are the tiny islands located in the middle of the bay that appear during low tide, which also reveals the vast white sand beach. According to reviews, Bo Thong Lang Bay has a 4.5-star rating from more than 900 reviews. (HHT)

EXAT ramps up Koh Samui bridge plan

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) is preparing to study the feasibility of building a bridge linking the mainland to Koh Samui.

EXAT Gov. Surachet Laophulsuk has visited the island to review information and inspect the proposed site for the bridge.

If the project clears the study and wins public approval, work is expected to begin in 2028 and finish two years later. Continued …

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Will the driver’s license point system work?

A new hope in the effort to make Thailand’s roads safer, a demerit point system has been introduced by the Royal Thai Police and the Land Transport Department.

These two major organizations will eventually connect their systems and attempt to curb traffic violations and dangerous driving, in the hope of increasing driver discipline on Thailand’s infamous roads. Video 

Three generals among 80 immigration police charged in triad visa scam

Over 80 Immigration police, including three holding the rank of major general, will be summoned for questioning for allegedly helping a group of Chinese gray capitalists reside in Thailand.

Deputy National Police Chief Lt. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, whose nickname is Big Joke, said a meeting will be held this week on this case with two of the three major generals being fellow officers of the Royal Police Cadet Academy, Class 47, the same class as a deputy commissioner of police.

Initially, they will be charged with violating Section 157 of the Criminal Code for allegedly demanding or agreeing to accept assets or other benefits for oneself or others and wrongfully acting or not acting in keeping with their position. Continued …

Why house lizards have adapted to your home

House lizards that once lived in forests but now occupy urban areas are very familiar to anyone who lives in Thailand. House lizards are common throughout the tropics, but what makes one species into a house lizard and another … dead?

The Puerto Rican crested anole, a brown lizard with a bright orange throat fan, unique to the island, has sprouted special scales like a gecko to help cling to smooth surfaces like walls and windows and its legs have grown longer, making it faster across open areas, and harder for a cat to catch.

Kristin Winchell, a biology professor at New YorkUniversity, said, “We are watching evolution as it’s unfolding.” Continued …

Thailand among 25 countries with least paid leave days

Thailand is among a list of countries offering the least amount of days of paid leave and paid public holidays in the world, according to a new study by Resume.io.

No East/Southeast Asian country whatsoever made it into the top 25 countries with the most amount of paid public holidays and paid annual leave days.

Resume.io‘s study found out how much annual leave and paid public holidays are available on average in every country in 197 countries around the world. Continued …

Video: School teacher taken down by female gold shop staff after failed heist

Dramatic CCTV from two angles show a primary school teacher in Roi-Et, northeastern Thailand, trying to rob a gold shop.

It happened at the Yaowarat gold shop at the Rajabhat Roi-Et University at 10.30 am yesterday, a day off for many teachers being Teachers’ Day in Thailand.

CCTV from inside the shop showed a woman in lots of clothing. She then runs off with an item before CCTV from outside the shop shows a woman staffer kick the would-be robber off her escape motorcycle. Continued …

Southern Thai man strikes gold with rare cobra encounter

A rare golden cobra slithered into a rubber plantation in Satun province in southern Thailand on Thursday.

Sitthinai Soisuwan was walking in the rubber plantation behind his house in Satun province when he spotted an unusual golden snake. Sitthinai said the snake flared its hood and threatened him.

Captivated by its beauty, Sitthinai didn’t think about the snake’s potentially deadly venom and wrangled the snake, put it in a sack, and carried it home. He said he planned on raising the golden snake as a pet. Continued … 

Tanker explodes, 8 dock workers missing

Eight workers were missing and houses damaged after an empty oil tanker caught fire and exploded at a dockyard on the Mae Klong river in Muang district on Tuesday morning.

The explosion aboard the tanker Smooth Sea 22 was reported to police about 9.17am.

The tanker, which has a capacity of 6,500 deadweight tons, was undergoing regular maintenance at Ruammitr Dockyard in tambon Laem Yai. Its tanks were empty. Continued …

Gold price to reach eight-month high

The price of gold is expected to reach an eight-month high of US$950 an ounce this week on looming fears of a global recession after the latest U.S. inflation rate fell to 6.5%, said SET-listed Hua Seng Heng Gold Futures.

Gold prices closed $23.50 higher on Friday, touching their highest level since April 2022 at $921.80, thanks to a weak dollar.

As U.S. inflation eased to 6.55% in December, from 7.1% previously, the market expects the Federal Reserve (Fed) to slow down interest rate hikes. Continued …

China market poised to surge in Q4

Luxury hotel operators are expecting the Chinese market to pick up stronger late this year, as there were no notable bookings from the mainland in the first quarter.

Ho Ren Yung, senior vice president of brand and commercial at Banyan Tree Group, said the company has seen an increase in bookings driven by Chinese tourists from February, particularly the high end and luxury segment, as well as business travelers.

However, Ho, the daughter of Banyan Tree’s founders, said the group still maintains a conservative forecast that the Chinese market will come back strongly in the fourth quarter. Continued …

This Is How Much Money You’ll Need Per Day In Thailand

Thailand is a travel destination that doesn’t disappoint. It’s a place where one can expect to experience a total cultural immersion through its sumptuous local dishes, majestic Buddhist monasteries, and pompous festivals like the Songkran.

There are also stunning white beaches, turquoise waters, and never-ending parties. Whether one is looking for luxurious or budget travel, Thailand has it all. Mostly, it’s a destination known to be popular among backpackers looking to explore the countries of Southeast Asia.

It is definitely a pocket-friendly country, where one can expect to find cheap or free activities. Also, the transportation system is pretty convenient, and there are always many options to look at when moving around. Continued …

Phuket’s new year tourist surge levels off

Figures from Phuket’s Immigration Office indicate that the huge surge of tourists into Phuket has leveled off after the Christmas/New Year holiday period.

From Dec. 25 to this week, the daily arrival numbers have hovered between 9,500 and 12,900 people. But the average has “flatlined” since Dec. 15 last year, although there is no clear sign of the daily arrivals dropping at this stage, although the graph at the bottom of the information suggests a mild softening in demand since New Year.

Again, the Russian arrivals are, by far, the most numbers of the nationalities flying into Phuket at this time, almost three times more numerous as the second highest population of arrivals from India. The figures, below, show arrival numbers from the start of November up to Jan. 14. Continued …

Dental tourism’s top destinations around the world

Due to the high cost of dental treatments in some countries, many people can’t have access to appropriate oral health and that reflects in the number of cases of tooth loss and other oral diseases. This is the main reason why people have decided to travel to another country to get the oral care they need but spend less money.

Of course, this has also been an opportunity for the countries that receive tourists that are seeking medical attention. Some countries are now well-known for the great service they offer and the prices of the different treatments, which are usually considerably less expensive than in the patient’s local dental clinic.

Thailand has always been an amazing destination to enjoy a good vacation on its beautiful beaches, but when tourists discovered the quality and great prices of its dental clinics, it became one of the most popular countries for dental tourism. Continued …

Thailand’s Dragon Temple Is Real, & Here’s How To Get There

Travelers have always enjoyed a love affair with Thailand — a country famed for its delicious cuisine, vibrant culture, breathtaking palm-lined white-sand beaches, and glistening turquoise waters.

Whether visiting the country’s famed southern islands of Koh Phi Phi to savor their paradisical experiences or adventuring in the Thai capital, Bangkok, “The Land of Smiles” ticks every tourist box, from relaxing island pastimes and immersive cultural activities to action-packed extreme sports.

There’s plenty to experience for travelers visiting Bangkok, from eating one’s way through the city and sampling the energetic nightlife to visiting the bustling local markets full of delicious delicacies, handicrafts, and apparel. However, out of the many things to do in Bangkok (especially if visitors only have a couple of days), touring the city’s numerous beautiful temples always comes top of the list. Continued … 

Carpet of lilies lures visitors to Nong Han lake in Udon Thani

Pink lilies that blanket Nong Han lake in Kumphawapi district of Udon Thani province are in full bloom to welcome visitors until March this year.

The lake has seen a surge in visitors after CNN included it on its list of the 15 strangest lakes of the world in 2014.

The lake covers more than 22,500 rai (3,600 hectares) and is the second-largest freshwater lake in the Northeast. The lake also is a nurturing habitat for a range of fish, birds and aquatic plants. Continued …

What Will You Learn At Thailand’s Sanctuary Of Truth?

There are many interesting tours to experience when visiting Thailand, like taking a tuk tuk in Bangkok to relish some mouth-watering Thai dishes or indulging in extreme sports such as skydiving, which is not necessarily the typical thing to do when visiting this popular destination.

But those who wish to learn more about the cultural side cannot skip visiting Thailand’s Sanctuary of Truth, since it’s a place where one can experience the aesthetic side of Thai architecture and history.

Nestled in the north of Pattaya, facing the Gulf of Thailand in Naklua, the magnificent Sanctuary of Truth is a wooden structure that comprises a temple, a museum, an art gallery, and a workshop. There are some intricate wooden designs of fine figures, and what makes it unique is that not even a metal nail was used in its construction. The highest point of the structure is 105 meters high and stands against the backdrop of the sea, making it a perfect place to visit and take wonderful pictures. Continued …

Thailand’s Covid-19 hospitalizations drop, but deaths rise in 2nd week of 2023

Though fewer people have been hospitalized for Covid-19 during the second week of this year, the number of deaths has risen, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) said on Monday.

According to DDC, 969 people were hospitalized for Covid between Jan. 8 and 14, averaging 138 patients per day. This was slightly lower than the 997 patients hospitalized in the week of Jan. 1-7, which averaged about 142 patients per day.

So far this year, 1,966 patients have been admitted to hospital for Covid-19 symptoms. Continued …

Video: Will the Lunar New Year worsen China’s COVID surge?

The Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture. But with droves of city dwellers finally heading back to their rural hometowns for the holiday after three years of lockdowns, there are fears that the COVID outbreak raging in that country will overwhelm those smaller communities. – Reuters

73% of CEOs around the world say global economic growth will decline this year

Nearly three-quarters (73%) of CEOs say global economic growth will decline over the next 12 months, according to PwC’s 26th annual Global CEO Survey, which polled 4,410 CEOs in 105 countries and territories in October and November 2022. Continued …

Italy arrests Sicilian Mafia boss after 30 years on the run

Italy’s No. 1 fugitive, convicted Mafia boss Matteo Messina Denaro, was arrested on Monday at a private clinic in Palermo, Sicily, after 30 years on the run, Italian paramilitary police said. Continued …

Russian Strike On Ukraine Apartment Building Kills At Least 40

The death toll from a weekend Russian missile strike on an apartment building in the southeastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro has risen to 40, authorities said Monday, as Western analysts pointed to indications the Kremlin was preparing for a drawn-out war in Ukraine after almost 11 months of fighting. Continued ,,,

China’s population shrinks for first time since 1960

China’s population shrank last year for the first time in more than six decades, official data showed Tuesday, as the world’s most populous nation faces a looming demographic crisis. Continued …

Runaway West Antarctic ice sheet collapse not ‘inevitable’

The runaway collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet — which would trigger catastrophic sea level rise – is not “inevitable”, scientists said Monday following research that tracked the region’s recent response to climate change. 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, covid, hua hin, pattaya, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Jan 16

  • Cool temperatures in most of Thailand forecast for next week/
  • Starting a Business in Thailand: Legalities, Financing, and Market Research/
  • Thais warned against becoming foreigners’ nominees in businesses/
  • All you need to know about Thailand’s Education Visa/
  • Don’t Rush To Open A Legal Casino In Thailand: Academic/
  • China’s reopening lifts Thai export sector, but recovery is fragile/
  • Evaluating the China effect on Thailand’s economy/
  • Infrastructure outlays to underpin growth/
  • PTTEP commits to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050/
  • Tourism: Suvarnabhumi Expects 140,000 Daily During Chinese New Year/First Cruise to Koh Samui in 2023 Expected to Generate 5 Million Baht/Bangkok’s most famous weekend market – Chatuchak – is bustling again/No Suspected Sex Workers Found During Pattaya Inspection, Say Police/Foreign tourist goes on rampage in Pattaya 7-Eleven/TAT introduces “The Michelin Experience@Isan/This year, eat your way through Thailand and Southeast Asia/
  • Covid: China reports nearly 60,000 Covid-related deaths in a month/
  • International: At least 68 dead in Nepal plane crash/NATO hints at more heavy weapons for Ukraine/Americans are flocking to Mexico/
  • 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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Click on image above for more information or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Cool temperatures in most of Thailand forecast for next week

A high-pressure system from China and the South China Sea will bring cold, strong winds to upper Thailand, pulling the temperature down by several degrees for most of next week.

“The temperature will drop by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius in the Northeast,” the Thai Meteorological Department said on Sunday. Temperatures in the North, East and Central regions, including Greater Bangkok, will drop by 2-4 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, isolated heavy rain has been forecast for the South, as the northeast monsoon across the Gulf of Thailand and the South will strengthen. Flash floods and runoffs have also been predicted, while waves in the upper Gulf are expected to be about 2 meters high and higher in thundershowers. Continued … 

Starting a Business in Thailand: Legalities, Financing, and Market Research

Starting a business in a foreign country can be an exciting but daunting task. Thailand is no exception, with its unique laws and regulations that must be adhered to before any business can begin operations.

This article will provide an overview of the process for starting a business in Thailand, including researching the business environment, identifying your target market, securing financing, choosing a business structure, and obtaining necessary licenses and permits.

The first step in getting started is to do some research on the business environment in Thailand. This includes understanding the legal and regulatory framework that governs businesses in the country. It is important to understand the rules and regulations that apply to the type of business you plan to set up and make sure you are compliant. Additionally, it is helpful to identify opportunities for entrepreneurship in the Thai market, such as potential partnerships or investment opportunities. Continued …

Thais warned against becoming foreigners’ nominees in businesses

Thai people who allow their names to be used by foreigners as nominees to open businesses reserved for Thai nationals may face prison terms of three years and/or a fine of between 100,000 baht and a million baht, said Thosapone Dansuputra, director-general of the Business Development Department.

He said that foreigners are not allowed to open businesses selling food or drinks, as he responded to reports that Chinese businessmen had purchased a number of food shops in the Chinatown area.

He explained that foreigners who want to open a food shop must get a permission from the Business Development Department, adding that Thai people who co-invest with foreign partners in such business must show their bank accounts, to prove that they have the financial resources to invest and are not just acting as a nominee. Continued …

All you need to know about Thailand’s Education Visa

There are many ways to stay in Thailand legally for an extended period of time. One way is through the Education Visa or ED Visa. Video 

Don’t Rush To Open A Legal Casino In Thailand: Academic

A prominent academic warned that there are both pros and cons to the proposal to open a legal casino in the country but this project should not be rushed and only implemented after effective law enforcement and reforms are in place.

On Thursday, the House of Representatives approved a full report by a special committee on setting up a casino and entertainment complex in the country by a 310 to nine vote.

Bangkok and the Eastern Economic Corridor were cited in the final report as suitable sites for the casino and entertainment complex, but earlier Pattaya, Koh Samui and elsewhere in the provinces were also mentioned. Continued …

China’s reopening lifts Thai export sector, but recovery is fragile

The reopening of China will benefit Thailand’s key export sector but the recovery remains fragile, experts say.

China, Thailand’s second-largest export market after the U.S., lifted border restrictions on Jan. 8, spurring hopes of economic and trade recovery.

Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) Director Poonpong Naiyanapakorn expects the country’s reopening to boost Thailand’s export sector, led by shipments of fruit, food and beverages, and fashion items. Continued …

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Evaluating the China effect on Thailand’s economy

One-third of the world economy may slide into a recession this year, but the outlook for China remains murkier.

The gloomy economic forecast was made by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), based on concerns over an economic slowdown in the U.S., the EU and China, but some analysts say 2023 will be a year of economic recovery for the world’s second-largest economy.

A mélange of factors, including a surge in Covid-19 infections in China and Beijing’s monetary policy and decision to reopen the country for cross-border travel, have analysts predicting Thailand will both gain benefits and face new challenges this year. Continued … 

Infrastructure outlays to underpin growth

The government aims to accelerate state investment this year to provide a tailwind to propel economic growth momentum.

Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said he expects the economy to expand 3%-4% in 2023, with growth driven by the government’s plan to speed up state investment in key infrastructure projects.

According to Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) Director-general Pornchai Thiraveja, state agencies set a combined investment budget of 664 billion baht in fiscal 2023, accounting for 20.9% of total state spending. Continued …

PTTEP commits to Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050

PTTEP aims to reduce the intensity of GHG emissions by 30% in 2030 and 50% in 2040, with the ultimate target to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 from 2020 base year.

In Q1/2022, PTTEP achieved the previous target of 25% GHG emissions intensity reduction from 2012 base year, equivalent to one-year CO2 sequestration of 3.15 MM Rais of medium-sized slow-growing native trees, which is eight years ahead of the set target. – Bangkok Post

Suvarnabhumi Expects 140,000 Daily During Chinese New Year

Suvarnabhumi Airport is preparing for higher passenger numbers ahead of the Chinese New Year holidays, projecting up to 140,000 daily arrivals.

Kittipong Kittikachorn, general manager of Suvarnabhumi Airport, said the airport anticipates around 1.8 million people to use its services during Chinese New Year celebrations from Jan. 16-28, or about 139,000 passengers per day. During that time, some 1.3 million people are expected to use the airport’s international terminal, along with 454,000 domestic passengers.

The general manager noted that the airport has integrated with related agencies in anticipation of the increase in travelers during this period in order to efficiently facilitate the influx. Officials will implement measures to accommodate the higher numbers, such as adding check-in stations to reduce airport congestion for departures. Continued …

First Cruise to Koh Samui in 2023 Expected to Generate 5 Million Baht

The luxury liner Mein Schiff 5 recently arrived in Koh Samui, becoming the first luxury cruise ship to the island this year. Over 3,000 tourists from Europe visited the island from the ship in a single day for sightseeing and shopping, generating an estimated 5 million baht for the island.

Koh SamuiMayor Chayapon Intarasupa said tourism businesses had the opportunity to welcome the passengers of the Mein Schiff 5, which sailed from Vietnam and docked at Koh Samui’s Nathon Pier on Jan. 14. The passengers visited local communities and tourist attractions on the island, as locals were celebrating Children’s Day, making for a lively atmosphere. Continued …

Bangkok’s most famous weekend market – Chatuchak – is bustling again

The number of shoppers at Bangkok’s Chatuchak weekend market is rising every weekend and vendors are stocking up in anticipation of a surge of Chinese shoppers next weekend.

Shoppers are still pouring in despite an expected drop following the New Year break, a clothing vendor said on Saturday.

The market will see more shoppers, including many Chinese tourists, next weekend, the vendor said, noting that it coincides with the Chinese New Year on Jan. 22. Continued …

No Suspected Sex Workers Found During Pattaya Inspection, Say Police

Pattaya Tourist Police were satisfied after finding no illegal prostitutes during yesterday’s tour around risky spots.

The inspection, which aimed to stifle illegal prostitution and came after complaints from concerned citizens claiming prostitutes were operating in Pattaya, took place at midnight on Jan. 14 and was led by Lt. Col. Pichaya Kheawpluang.

The police patrolled around risky spots such as Beach Road and Walking Street to look for suspects and put flyers on venues’ front gates to warn tourists to “Be aware of their belongings and don’t trust strangers.” Continued …

Foreign tourist goes on rampage in Pattaya 7-Eleven

A foreign national was arrested after he went on a convenience store rampage early this morning in the beachside city Pattaya and has so far refused to cooperate with police.

At 4am, Pattaya police were alerted to a tourist who entered a 7-Eleven on Walking Street, where he proceeded to destroy merchandise and ran into the glass door, shattering it with his body.

The man also injured store cashier Kanya Inpanon, who was cut with the broken glass. When a motorbike taxi named Naranon tried to stop him, the tourist head-butted him. Continued … 

TAT introduces “The Michelin Experience@Isan

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is introducing “The Michelin Experience@Isan” activity to promote Thai-Isan food culture and congratulate 33 entries from four representative cities of the Northeast or “Isan” region included in the Bib Gourmand list in the new MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023 edition.

Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT governor, said, “Thailand’s fantastic culinary scene indeed helps strengthen the kingdom’s status as a world-class dining destination. Food also forms part of the kingdom’s soft-power foundations that continue to be highlighted in the ‘Visit Thailand Year 2023 Amazing New Chapters’ campaign.”

With Northeast Thailand featured for the first time, The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023 now features 441 dining venues in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phuket and Phang-nga, and four in the Isan provinces of Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, and Udon Thani. Continued … 

This year, eat your way through Thailand and Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian countries have always had vibrant gastronomic scenes. This is evident in the never-ending stream of tourists who visit Southeast Asian countries, particularly for the food.

In 2023, gastronomy tourism is said to be one of the big trends in travel. Let’s check out what’s in store for tourists who come to Thailand, as well as some of our neighboring countries, to feast on our delicious fare.

Thai food has been a top destination choice for foodies for many years now. There’s a wide variety of cheap, fresh and delicious food available throughout the country – you can never go hungry in Thailand! The vibrant and dynamic street markets offer curious foodies a chance to feast on many delicacies, including deep-fried insects (if you’re into these kinds of things, that is). Continued …

China reports nearly 60,000 Covid-related deaths in a month

China’s health authorities on Saturday reported almost 60,000 Covid-related deaths in just over a month, the first major death toll released by the government since the loosening of its virus restrictions in early December.

China recorded 59,938 Covid-related deaths between Dec. 8, 2022, and Jan. 12 this year, Jiao Yahui, head of the Bureau of Medical Administration under the National Health Commission, told a press conference.

The figure refers only to deaths recorded at medical facilities, with the total toll likely to be higher. Continued … 

At least 68 dead in Nepal plane crash

Sixty-eight deaths were confirmed and four people were missing after a plane crashed Sunday in a Nepal ravine, the wreckage burning so hot that rescue workers were unable to aid at least one screaming victim. Continued … 

NATO hints at more heavy weapons for Ukraine

Kyiv can expect more deliveries of heavy weapons from Western countries soon, NATO said Sunday, as President Vladimir Putin praised his forces after their claimed capture of a Ukraine town. Continued … 

Americans are flocking to Mexico

For more than a decade, Marcos Del Rosario Santiago has lived in la Roma — at the time an up and coming neighborhood in the west side of Mexico City. But Del Rosario has seen a shift in his neighborhood. More Airbnbs are popping up after those living in apartments, some who have had to already have three or four roommates, could no longer afford to live there. At his local panadería, where he often orders a coffee and pan dulce, he used to only hear people order in Spanish, even if they were not Mexican. Now, he said he’s seeing and hearing more foreigners order in English. 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, marijuana, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-Jan 14

  • Today is Chilrden’s Day in Thailand/
  • Bangkok urologist at Be Well Clinic Jan 18/
  • Chiva-Som Hua Hin Appoints Patience Sangwa as Resident Naturopath/
  • Will Thailand’s new residency visa achieve results?/
  • Thai lawmakers endorse study on legalizing casinos/
  • Nearly 9,000 Holiday Traffic Offenders To Be Put on Probation/
  • Thai beauty queen wows with gown made from pull tabs/
  • Pension for elderly raise proposed to 3,000 baht a month/
  • Thailand to nominate King Bhumibol as a UNESCO World Eminent Personality/
  • Bangkok taxi fares increase for first time in 8 years/
  • Electric tuk-tuk innovator MuvMi to triple fleet as demand soars/
  • Thai power generator to adopt green fuels, technologies/
  • From Ancient to Modern: The Cannabis Tale of Thailand/
  • US weed giant to open Bangkok store/
  • Tourism: PKK to focus on places of worship, sacred religious sites in new tourism campaign/Will Thailand’s 300-baht tourist fee apply to expats?/TAT working on increasing flights, longer visa on arrival/
  • Thailand Experience: Exploring the Chinese New Year/Sustainability In Action: The Karen People’s Farming System/
  • International: Ant farms turn from science project to new agri-business in Cambodia/Steven Spielberg wins big as Golden Globes make comeback/Promised tanks a logistical challenge for Ukraine/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

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

Today is Chilrden’s Day in Thailand’s

Today is Thai Children’s Day. Bumper crowds are expected after the popular event, which sees state organizations fling open their doors to parents and their kids, was canceled for the last two years in the pandemic.

A police spokeswoman said they were concerned about parents losing their children in the big crowds and had five recommendations for the public, including advice on “sharenting”. Continued …

Bangkok urologist at Be Well Clinic Jan 18

Hua Hin’s Be Well Clinic will host visiting urologist Dr. Isares Saisorn from Samitivej Hospital Bangkok on Wednesday, Jan. 18.

He will be scheduling appointments for those suffering from changes in bladder functionality or urine, and lower abdomen or pain in the groin region.

To make an appointment: Tel. 02 111 6644; email – info@bewell.co.th, web.

Chiva-Som Hua Hin Appoints Patience Sangwa as Resident Naturopath

Chiva-Som Hua Hin has launched an online naturopathic and nutritional consultation program specifically for children.

The program, which will be headed by naturopathic doctor Patience Sangwa, has been designed to provide parents much-needed information on anything that concerns their child, such as nutrition and sleep, as well as mental and physical development.

Patience, a board-certified naturopath with the Allied Health Professionals Council of South Africa, completed dual bachelor’s degrees in complementary ehalth sciences and naturopathy at the University of the Western Cape before undergoing clinical training in Cape Town.

As resident naturopath at Chiva-Som, Patience will investigate the hindrances to the well-being of guests and enable them to get closer to their health goals by looking at nutrition, mental health, sleep practices, physical activity and lifestyle habits. – travelnewsasia.com

Will Thailand’s new residency visa achieve results?

On Sept. 1, 2022, Thailand introduced a new long-term resident (LTR) visa program. The program offers a 10-year renewable visa and a range of tax and non-tax benefits to four distinct categories of foreigners. These are wealthy global citizens, wealthy pensioners, work-from-Thailand professionals and highly skilled professionals.

Thailand’s Board of Investment contends the LTR program will attract wealthy, “high-potential” and talented individuals, who, in turn, will stimulate economic growth, through innovation, investment and domestic spending. Thailand’s government has set a target of attracting one million foreigners into the program over the next five years.

This target seems overly optimistic. The LTR visa enters a highly competitive global industry of long-term and second-home visa programs because of its focus on attracting wealthy global citizens. But it is difficult to envisage why applicants would invest at least US$500,000 in Thai property or low-yield Thai government bonds to be approved for this visa if they are expected to hold US$1 million in assets. Continued … 

Thai lawmakers endorse study on legalizing casinos

Thailand’s lower House endorsed a feasibility study on legalizing casinos on Thursday, as the country seeks tax and tourism revenue to boost economic recovery from Covid-19.

The study report was produced by a special House committee and will now be sent to Cabinet for consideration.

The committee plans to ask the government to legalize casinos in five regions, aiming to increase state income from tax while suppressing illegal gambling dens. The five locations targeted for legal casinos are: Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Phang-nga or Krabi. Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani or Khon Kaen. and Greater Bangkok. Continued … 

Nearly 9,000 Holiday Traffic Offenders To Be Put on Probation

Thai police announced that they will put traffic offenders in 8,923 cases caught nationwide during the New Year period on probation, said Weerakit Hanpariphan, director-general of the Probation Department.

Weerakit revealed that the majority of the offenses recorded during the Seven Days of Danger road safety campaign from Dec. 29 to Jan. 4 were related to drink driving, which accounted for over 8,567 cases or 96%, followed by driving under the influence of illegal drugs, with 335 cases or 3.8%, and reckless driving with 21 cases or 0.2%.

The three provinces with the highest number of road accidents were Roi Et with 469 cases, Samut Prakan with 388 cases, and Nonthaburi with 364 cases. Continued …

Thai beauty queen wows with gown made from pull tabs

Anna Sueangam-iam, who won the Miss Universe Thailand crown last year, was a sparkling sensation as she sashayed out on stage in a dress fashioned from pull tabs. The dress for the 2022 Miss Universe preliminary round was created as a tribute to her parents, who worked as waste collectors, and to showcase her eco-activism. The “Hidden Precious Diamond Dress”, fashioned from pull tabs and embellished with Swarovski diamonds, was created by Thai designer Arif Jehwang. The preliminary and national attire rounds for the 71st Miss Universe 2022 were held on Thursday in New Orleans. The 2022 Miss Universe will be crowned on Sunday at 8am Thailand time. (The Nation)

Pension for elderly raise proposed to 3,000 baht a month

Senior citizens should receive a universal pension of 3,000 baht per month to ease their financial burden, activists and academics said at a forum.

Four Regions Slum Network representative Nuken Inthachan was one of those calling for the government to revise its old age monthly allowance as a universal pension and lift it to 3,000 baht a month.

“The existing 600 to 1,000 baht subsidy for senior citizens is barely enough, even with them finding supplementary income themselves,” he said. Continued …

Thailand to nominate King Bhumibol as a UNESCO World Eminent Personality

Thailand’s Ministry of Education is preparing to propose His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, the ninth monarch of Thailand, to the list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s world eminent personalities, coinciding with the centennial anniversary of King Bhumibol’s birth in 2027.

The nomination aims at honoring his countless achievements, which impacted not only the country but also the world community.

A committee will be set up in charge of collecting all relevant information regarding King Bhumibol’s royal projects, in accordance with the UNESCO criteria, before submitting it to UNESCO by Dec. 1, 2024. Continued …

Bangkok taxi fares increase for first time in 8 years

A taxi fare rise for the first time in eight years took effect for taxis in Bangkok on Friday as Prime Minister Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha ordered relevant agencies to assess its impact on people.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said the prime minister was concerned about impacts on the general public, so he instructed many agencies, such as the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, to monitor the impacts on people and the economy in general. and to propose proper economic measures to alleviate those impacts, particularly during the transition period.

At the same time, he realized the hardship of taxi drivers, affected by the rising cost of living and energy prices. It is the first fare rise in eight years to help them, the spokesman said. Continued …

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Electric tuk-tuk innovator MuvMi to triple fleet as demand soars

Thai startup MuvMi will nearly triple the number of its electric tuk-tuks this year from 350 to 1,000 due to rising demand for rides in vehicles, said the CEO of its parent company, Urban Mobility Tech.

Krisada Kritayakirana, who is also the co-founder of Urban Mobility Tech, told a press conference on Friday that demand for rides in electric tuk-tuks is growing in tandem with the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) in Thailand.

“Our initial goal is to provide environmentally friendly vehicles for city dwellers who struggle to find public transportation after departing skytrain, subway, and bus stations,” he said. Continued …

Thai power generator to adopt green fuels, technologies

Electricity Generating Plc (Egco), a power generation arm of state-run Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, is planning to adopt green fuels and technologies to better manage electricity generation, part of efforts to achieve a carbon neutrality goal by 2050.

The company signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Friday with JERA Asia Pte, a subsidiary of JERA Inc. – Japan’s largest power company – to jointly conduct a study on ways to decarbonize Egco’s businesses by using hydrogen and ammonia as fuels, as well as adopting carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technology. Continued … 

From Ancient to Modern: The Cannabis Tale of Thailand

On June 9, 2022, Thailand became the first country in Asia — and only the third in the world, after Canada and Uruguay — to decriminalize cannabis nationwide. But did you know that cannabis was not always illegal in Thailand? In this video, we give you a brief history of cannabis in Thailand, as well as experts giving us more information on the present situation of cannabis in Thailand. Continued …

US weed giant to open Bangkok store

After months of delay, one of America’s most popular weed brands is landing in Bangkok later this month.

Jan. 21 has been set for the opening date of Cookies in Bangkok’s Soi Ruamrudee, about four months after it was originally expected.

The San Francisco-based weed giant even invited a Buddhist monk to come over and bless the new storefront, where visitors will be able to buy cannabis alongside clothing and fashion accessories such as smell-proof backpacks, sweaters, and baseball caps. Continued … 

PKK to focus on places of worship, sacred religious sites in new tourism campaign

Some of Prachuap Khiri Khan’s most sacred buildings and religious sites are to take center stage in the province’s latest tourism campaign, officials have announced.

The new campaign will offer tourists information on places of worship that they can visit and pay their respects to, while at the same time experiencing local cultures and traditions in each district of Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The year-long promotional campaign will shine a light on the province’s most spectacular and significant religious sites and centuries-old temples, as well as some little unknown cultural attractions and far-flung places of worship. Continued …

Will Thailand’s 300-baht tourist fee apply to expats?

After years of false starts, Thailand is about to start slapping fees on every arriving tourist, a measure being adopted in the post-pandemic era in countries ranging from Brussels and Oslo to the Maldives.

While various fees have been considered and rejected over the years, officials began beating the drum last year for a THB300 fee that would offset tourist healthcare costs and be reinvested in tourism development. That’s now set to take effect in June.

There are still five months for them to reconsider: Arrival fees for travelers have been proposed numerous times in years past, only to be abandoned or shelved under criticism, such as a THB360 “tourism maintenance fee” proposed by the tourism authority in 2016. Indeed, the fee was supposed to happen nine months ago. Continued …

TAT working on increasing flights, longer visa on arrival

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) aims to increase the number of flights in a bid to boost tourism during the high season.

“The flight load capacity must reach 90 percent during the high season this year,” TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Friday. The high season in Thailand is from November to March.

He added that Chinese authorities have requested information from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand to boost the number of flights to 2019 levels, before the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued … 

Exploring the Chinese New Year traditions in Thailand

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, has been celebrated in Thailand for centuries by the country’s Chinese-Thai community. The festival typically takes place in January or February and is a time for families to come together, clean their homes, and decorate with red lanterns and other symbols of good luck.

Traditional activities include lion and dragon dances, fireworks, and the giving of red envelopes filled with money to children. Chinese New Year is also an important time for businesses, as it is considered a peak shopping season.

In recent years, Chinese New Year celebrations have become more popular among the general population in Thailand and are now celebrated by people of all backgrounds. Continued … 

Khao Sok National Park

3 Thailand locations for the eco-conscious travelers to explore this year

Sustainable tourism is predicted to be the biggest trend for the global travel industry in 2023. This is due to the environmental and social pressures calling for responsible living in communities worldwide.

According to the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand London office, Sadudee Sangnil, Thailand is fully on board with the global shift toward more responsible travel practices.

“Eco-tourism reaps multiple benefits for travelers, local communities and the environment. It also provides countries like Thailand with the opportunity to build its economy in a way that will preserve its natural resources, landscapes, wildlife and people for future generations to experience and enjoy,” said Sangnil. Continued …

Sustainability In Action: The Karen People’s Farming System

For 2,000 years, the Karen people in northern Thailand have practiced a form of long-term rotational farming that allows the land to recover, then thrive, ready for the next harvest.

This practice lies at the heart of the way the people of the Hin Lad Nai community in the hills of Chiang-rai province manage natural resources. The philosophy of sustainable management is captured in a poem that says, “Auf hti K’tau hti, auf kauj k’ tauz kauj, auf deif k’ tauz lei, auf nyaf k’ tauz kwiv” (use water care of rivers, use land care of forest, use/eat frogs care of cliff and use/eat fishes care of water sources).

The system of fallow, or “rational farming cycle”, allows an area to regenerate for seven to 10 years, then the farmers cultivate it again for one year. After harvesting, they let the field become fallow again for another seven to 10 years while it regenerates. Continued …

Ant farms turn from science project to new agri-business in Cambodia

Forest-dwelling weaver ants are a common species in Cambodia and are often employed as a tasty addition to many traditional dishes like some sour soups, or prahok. They are usually collected wild from the countryside, but one enterprising woman has discovered how to raise them commercially. Continued … 

Steven Spielberg wins big as Golden Globes make comeback

Steven Spielberg claimed top honors, including best drama, at the Golden Globes on Tuesday for his deeply personal film “The Fabelmans,” as Hollywood’s A-list stars flocked to the first major awards show of the year despite a series of scandals swirling around its organizers. Continued … 

Promised tanks a logistical challenge for Ukraine

The imminent arrival in Ukraine of Western-made light tanks and armored vehicles, as well as possibly heavy tanks, means Kyiv will need to quickly train up troops to use and maintain the sometimes complex equipment, analysts say. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

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

Friday’s News-Jan 13

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

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Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain tomorrow

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

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

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

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

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

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

Illegal pork import gets destroyed in Cha Am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parliament study a blueprint for legalizing casinos minus controls: NGO

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

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

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

Corruption investigation leaves some Thai immigration officials in hot water

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Merged True-DTAC to be called True Corp

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

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

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

Baht surges to its strongest level in 10 months

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

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

Australian Woman Runs Over, Kills Street Painter in Pattaya

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Hua Hin: City of Happiness?

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

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

PKK names 8 districts for tourism promotion

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

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

The eight identified districts for the Hidden Wow campaign are:

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

Foreigners Sought Who Allegedly Attacked Thai Tourists on Samui Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Foreign tourist breaks back at Pai waterfall

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

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

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

Phuket officials quash plans for floating beach club

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

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

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

Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments

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

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

Kaffir Lime

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

Chatuchak weekend market

Where to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok

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

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

Chatuchak weekend market

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

Thailand clarifies all measures to control Covid as tourism surges

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

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

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

Seniors urged to get two booster jabs this year

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

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

Study linking asthma and cooking gas stirs debate

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

Scientists sound alarm as ocean temperatures hit new record

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

Putin signals impatience over Ukraine war in commander switch

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

Chinese cities to pay people to have children

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

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

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

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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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