Category Archives: thai wildlife

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s news-June 1

“Most of the stuff people worry about ain’t never gonna happen anyway.”

  • Immigration offices closed on Monday, June 5; alcohol ban Saturday/
  • International sports high school to open at True Arena/
  • Major roadworks in Pranburi set to cause delays/
  • Road work completed on Soi 102/
  • Four-month cut in electricity bills comes into effect/
  • Why 40°C is bearable in a desert but lethal in the tropics/
  • Pita case could force new election/
  • Check assets and bank accounts of all police commanders, watchdog says/
  • French Associations Jointly Launch New Bureau in Bangkok/
  • Phuket set to be a new model for food waste disposal/
  • Chiang Mai nature park not an option for ailing jumbo returning from Sri Lanka/
  • Economy: Bank of Thailand Raises Key Interest Rate/Thailand’s MPI growth faces stagnation amid export slowdown and high costs/Investors switch from stocks to condos for better yield/Chamber puts spotlight on urgent issues/Tobacco firms in Thailand contributing to global food crisis, says WHO/Thai marijuana tycoons ponder mixed messaging from Move Forward-led coalition/
  • Tourism: TAT forecasts tourism revenue of Bt3 trillion in 2024/The opportunity for Thailand to shine in the global wellness industry/Travel Agents Warn Wage Hike Will Hit Tourism Industry/Phuket curbs visa overstays, more than 1,000 caught/
  • Thailand Experience: A Journey into the Flavors of Thailand/Khon Kaen Has All the Charm of Thailand’s Bigger Cities — Without the Tourists/What you need to know about Isaan’s Khon Kaen/
  • International: Earth is ‘really quite sick now’ and in danger zone in nearly all ecological ways/Asia’s factories signal more pain as China recovery falters/US debt ceiling bill passes House with broad bipartisan support/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Immigration offices closed on Monday, June 5; alcohol ban Saturday

Thailand will observe the Buddhist religious day Visakha Bucha on Saturday, with a 24-hour ban on the sale of alcohol.

Also closed on Saturday and Monday will be government offices, including Immigration, Department of Land Transport and district or municipal offices. Most banks will also be closed, with the exception of some bank branches located in shopping malls

International sports high school to open at True Arena

A new international standard high school with a focus on sports will open in Hua Hin later this year. The Junior Asian Sports Academy (JASA) is set to open its doors at True Arena Hua Hin Sports Club to students from September.

This international sports high school will provide an opportunity for students to receive a world-class education while simultaneously developing their athletic abilities. Continued …

Major roadworks in Pranburi set to cause delays

For motorists planning to travel south out of Hua Hin this upcoming long weekend (June 3-5), be aware of the roadworks taking place in Pranburi.

The road widening and resurfacing work is expected to cause delays and traffic congestion in three specific locations. To ensure a smooth journey, motorists are advised to consider alternative routes or allow extra travel time. Continued …

Road work completed on Soi 102

Soi 102 road construction work has now been completed. The work reinforced the road and added improved drainage pipes, sewage systems, and water supply systems. The road also was connected to the road to Nonggae Reservoir. (HHT)

Four-month cut in electricity bills comes into effect

Household electricity users will receive discounts on their power bills for the four months from May to August, government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said on Wednesday.

Anucha confirmed that the subsidy, which was previously approved by the Election Commission (EC), will be effective retroactively from May, despite the power bills for May having already been issued. Continued …

Why 40°C is bearable in a desert but lethal in the tropics

This year, even before the northern hemisphere hot season began, temperature records were being shattered. Spain, for instance, saw temperatures in April (38.8°C) that would be out of the ordinary even at the peak of summer. South and Southeast Asia, in particular, were hammered by a very persistent heatwave, and all-time record temperatures were experienced in countries such as Vietnam and Thailand (44°C and 45°C, respectively).

In Singapore, the more modest record was also broken, as temperatures hit 37°C. And in China, Shanghai just recorded its highest May temperature for over a century at 36.7°C. Continued …

Pita case could force new election

Details of shareholding violation complaints against Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat will decide his fate and determine if the May 14 general election is nullified, according to caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam.

He was responding to questions about the possible scenarios if the Constitutional Court rules against Pita, who holds 42,000 shares in iTV, an independent broadcaster founded in the 1990s. Continued … 

Check assets and bank accounts of all police commanders, watchdog says

The Anti-Corruption Organization of Thailand (ACT) is urging the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to look retroactively into the wealth of every active and retired police commander, especially highway police commanders.

ACT Secretary-General Mana Nimitmongkol said on Wednesday that he is confident that the NACC will be able to identify whether the wealth of the officers was legally acquired or not. Continued …

French Associations Jointly Launch New Bureau in Bangkok

A group of French associations led by Alliance Française Bangkok and Michelin Group have announced the opening of a new bureau early next month.

The inauguration of “Bureau des Associations” will be held at the beginning of June in the presence of His Excellency, Thierry Mathou, ambassador of France, Ariya Banomyong, president of Alliance Française Bangkok, and Hervé Deguine, director of public affairs Asia-Pacific and NGO relations at Michelin, Alliance Française Bangkok said in its press release on Wednesday. Continued …

Phuket set to be a new model for food waste disposal

With the Phuket tourism industry well on the way to recovery and aiming to welcome 12 million tourist arrivals this year, the problem of food waste is seen as an increasingly critical issue.

In an effort to reduce that waste, the Thai Organic Consumer Assn. (TOCA) is working with hotels in Phuket to initiate a food waste composting system, which is in line with the BCG (bio-circular-green economic model). Continued …

Chiang Mai nature park not an option for ailing jumbo returning from Sri Lanka

The Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai province does not have the space or appropriate facilities to take care of “Sak Surin”, an ailing elephant who will return from Sri Lanka in July, said the park’s director on Wednesday.

Saengduean “Lek” Chailert said that, with more than a hundred elephants under their care, the park cannot provide the required level of care for Sak Surin, because of the animal’s poor health. Continued …

Bank of Thailand Raises Key Interest Rate

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) raised its key policy rate by 0.25 percentage point from 1.75% to 2%, effective immediately. Piti Disyatat, secretary of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), announced the outcome of the meeting on Wednesday.

The Thai economy should continue to expand, driven mainly by tourism and private consumption. Merchandise exports are expected to recover gradually. Continued …

Thailand’s MPI growth faces stagnation amid export slowdown and high costs

The Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) in Thailand is predicted to experience subdued growth of 0-1% this year, owing to a combination of domestic and international business challenges.

The April MPI reading was the lowest in 34 months, with an 8.14% year-on-year drop to 83.5 points, marking the seventh consecutive decline since October last year, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE). Continued …

Investors switch from stocks to condos for better yield

The fluctuation of Thailand’s stock market due to political uncertainty after the general election, together with the slowdown of the global economy due to rising inflation, have made property for investment an attractive choice among modern investors, industry experts say.

Chanin Wanichwong, chief executive officer of Habitat Group, said an increasing number of new generation investors aged 30-40 years are buying condominiums and renting them out for short- and long-term profits. Continued …

Chamber puts spotlight on urgent issues

The Thai Chamber of Commerce highlighted three urgent issues in talks held on Wednesday, with expediting the formation of a new government the priority to ensure the continuity of budget allocation.

Speaking after holding talks with Pita Limjaroenrat, the Move Forward Party’s leader and prime ministerial candidate, along with his party’s executives, Chamber Chairman Sanan Angubolkul said the private sector also proposed the new government improve the country’s competitiveness by addressing costly electricity bills, wages, ease of doing business and legal reforms. Continued …

Tobacco firms in Thailand contributing to global food crisis, says WHO

The spotlight shifted from smokers to farmers for this year’s “World No Tobacco Day” yesterdsay – with the slogan “We need food, not tobacco”.

Giant tobacco companies operating in Thailand and the rest of the region remain firmly in the crosshairs of the World Health Organization. WHO said it will expose how the tobacco industry contributes to the global food crisis by “interfering with attempts to substitute tobacco growing with sustainable crops”. Continued …

Thai marijuana tycoons ponder mixed messaging from Move Forward-led coalition

Move Forward’s deputy leader has given an assurance to operators licensed by authorities in respect of marijuana or cannabis that their businesses will not be closed down by the new government’s promise to control the widespread use of the drug in public and again outlaw its recreational use.

One suggestion is that the use of marijuana or cannabis be treated as a medical prescription requiring clinical authorization and only to take place within designated areas closed off to the public. Continued …

Click on image or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

TAT forecasts tourism revenue of Bt3 trillion in 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) remains confident the industry can garner revenue of 3 trillion baht next year, matching the level of 2019.

Tanes Petsuwan, deputy governor for Asia and the South Pacific at TAT, said the agency is working on new promotional plans for the next fiscal year and expects to finalize its proposal to the new government next month. Continued …

The opportunity for Thailand to shine in the global wellness industry

The World Health Organization (WHO) has ranked Thailand as one of the top six countries in Asia with high medical and healthcare service capabilities. This ranking is confirmed by the results of coping with incidents and the relative success in controlling the spread of Covid-19 over the past three years.

The main factors that have contributed to Thailand’s high potential in the medical and healthcare sector are its investments in infrastructure that facilitate research in technology, innovation, capacity building of healthcare professionals, and academic development. Key components include establishing a comprehensive network of medical and healthcare services that cover all areas. Continued … 

Travel Agents Warn Wage Hike Will Hit Tourism Industry

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) warned that if the minimum wage is increased to 450 baht a day and further gradually increased every year it will definitely affect the economy, with the tourism industry also impacted.

Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, ATTA’s president, said a minimum wage hike would increase business operators’ cost, leading to their prices being adjusted. As prices of consumer goods rise, the service sector would be affected in terms of consumption. Continued …

Phuket curbs visa overstays, more than 1,000 caught

Phuket’s acclaimed crime-free project has proved successful, with over 1,000 foreigners caught overstaying their visas.

With the cooperation of 800 accommodation providers on the resort island, the Phuket Immigration Office has endorsed crime-free measures that allow businesses to inform police of any suspicious activities involving foreign guests. Continued …

A Journey into the Flavors of Thailand

Thai food is well known for its vibrant flavor, aromatic spices, and well-balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy scents. It is a cuisine that tantalizes the palate and offers a distinctive dining experience. This article will discuss the fundamentals of Thai food, as well as its distinctive flavors, regional specialties, and the cultural influences that have influenced its dishes.

We’ll discover the techniques used to create some of Thailand’s most well-known dishes as we delve into the country’s diverse culinary landscape. We will discover the vibrant flavors of Thai food, from the aromatic spices to the harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Continued …

Khon Kaen Has All the Charm of Thailand’s Bigger Cities — Without the Tourists

The country of Thailand says it received 40 million visitors in 2019, setting a new record for annual arrivals. That said, less-visited areas remain. One of those is Khon Kaen in the northwest, which is still a city that few Western tourists have explored. It appears, though, that the winds may be shifting.

Khon Kaen has experienced a plethora of new developments in the past few years and is poised to welcome all the foodies, shoppers, and nightlife hounds that flock to Thailand’s major cities — without, as of yet, all the crowds. Continued …

What you need to know about Isaan’s Khon Kaen

Khon Kaen is a province and city located in northeastern Thailand, also known as the Isaan region. It serves as the capital of Khon Kaen Province and is one of the largest cities in the region. Here’s some information about Khon Kaen:

Location: Khon Kaen is situated approximately 449 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. It is positioned on the Khorat Plateau, a vast elevated region in northeastern Thailand. Continued …

Earth is ‘really quite sick now’ and in danger zone in nearly all ecological ways

Earth has pushed past seven out of eight scientifically established safety limits and into “the danger zone,” not just for an overheating planet that’s losing its natural areas, but for well-being of people living on it, according to a new study. Continued …

Asia’s factories signal more pain as China recovery falters

Asia’s factories saw further easing in demand in May as China’s faltering recovery weighed on a region already smarting from a global trade downturn. Continued …

US debt ceiling bill passes House with broad bipartisan support

A divided U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill to suspend the $31.4 trillion debt ceiling on Wednesday, with majority support from both Democrats and Republicans to overcome opposition led by hard-line conservatives and avoid a catastrophic default. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

hua hin, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-May 31

“Every path has a few puddles.”

  • Heavy rain warning across Thailand, strong winds raise flood risk/
  • Alcohol ban in Thailand on June 3 for Visakha Bucha/
  • E-cigarette use linked to lung diseases/
  • Is Bangkok really under threat from sea level rise?/
  • Rayong residents hop on golden toad’s good luck/
  • Economy: Economy at tipping point, markets wake up to potential for political turmoil/Move Forward outlines it plans to tackle urgent issues/Trends to watch from the region’s largest food trade fair/Economists urge next government to increase VAT, not capital gains tax/Thai export decline in April makes it 7th consecutive month of contraction/Motorcycle sales surging despite dangers on Thai roads/Thai online marketplaces finally move into profit/
  • Tourism: New government urged to prioritize tourism in first 100 days/Tourists from Four Asian Regions Can Now Pay in Thailand with Mobile Wallets/
  • Thailand Experience: 10 Exotic Thai Foods You Must Try for a Flavorful Adventure/June is another busy month full of festivals and events in Thailand/
  • International: Ukraine drone attack hits Moscow buildings/Scientists generate ‘electricity from thin air.’ Humidity could be a boundless source of energy/China’s Largest EV Maker Eyes Control Of Southeast Asia Market/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Heavy rain warning across Thailand, strong winds raise flood risk

Heavy rain and flash floods are forecast across Thailand today with a 70% chance of Bangkok being affected. Compelling precautions, the Thai Meteorological Department has warned residents in at-risk areas.

The Meteorological Department reports that for the next 24 hours, beginning from 6pm yesterday until 6pm today, heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected across the northern, central, and eastern regions of Thailand. Some areas in the southern region on the Andaman Sea coast can expect very heavy downpours. Continued …

Alcohol ban in Thailand on June 3 for Visakha Bucha

A nationwide alcohol ban will be enforced in Thailand this Saturday, June 3, in observance of the Buddhist holiday Visakha Bucha.

Visakha Bucha commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Prince Siddhartha, which all occurred on the same date, decades apart, according to the ancient Buddhist calendar. Continued …

E-cigarette use linked to lung diseases

Thai medical professionals have expressed their concerns over the increasing number of pneumonia and bronchitis cases connected to e-cigarette usage. Specifically, those using cannabis oil have been particularly affected.

Despite these growing numbers, the accurate diagnosis and proper reporting of the cases have been hindered by a lack of awareness among physicians. Continued …

Is Bangkok really under threat from sea level rise?

The short answer is yes. Bangkok is located on the central plains of Thailand, and it is situated only about 1.5 meters (5 feet) above sea level. The region is crisscrossed by several rivers and canals, and its geographical location makes it vulnerable to the impacts of sea level rise.

But before we go rushing off to throw paint at sculptures and gluing ourselves to paintings, know that this is as much an engineering and government issue as it is a climate change issue. Continued …

Rayong residents hop on golden toad’s good luck

Residents in a Rayong village believe a golden yellow toad they discovered amid regular frogs during a heavy downpour will bring good luck. The woman who caught the toad refuses to sell it, as she believes it would bring good luck and generate a lottery windfall someday.

Reporters yesterday met with the woman who caught the toad, Vinijta Ruamwong, at her home in Huai Yang subdistrict, Klaeng District, Rayong Province. During the meeting, she showcased the golden yellow toad she had caught on a rubber plantation. The toad’s distinct golden-yellow color and robust appearance marked a stark contrast to the common black and slender frogs. Continued …

Economy at tipping point, markets wake up to potential for political turmoil

Thai officials and policymakers may be underestimating the negative impact that any potential political turmoil may have on the country’s economy this year or even the potential of a downturn in foreign tourism if the proposed Move Forward Pheu Thai coalition government, which is seen internationally as the will of the people in the May 14 General Election, is thwarted or forced out of the running by a political surprise.

The baht has already lost 3.3% against the dollar since the mid-May election and international media coverage of the kingdom has focused on the youth and appeal of what they see as Thailand’s charismatic PM in waiting, Pita Limjaroenrat, the youngest in over 78 years. Continued … 

Move Forward outlines it plans to tackle urgent issues

The Move Forward-led coalition will tackle at least four urgent issues transferred from the current government, the party’s deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakun said on Tuesday.

These include negotiations on the contract of the high-speed railway project linking three airports (Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao), raising the minimum wage to 450 baht per day, the price of diesel, and electricity costs. Continued …

Trends to watch from the region’s largest food trade fair

Halal, sustainable, clean label, plant-based and alternative protein food products were in the spotlight last week, as they are expected to dominate the food industry in the near future, THAIFEX-ANUGA ASIA 2023 revealed.

The biggest regional trade fair has just ended with a new record of 51,535 visitors from 111 countries over the five-day event. The business deals made during the fair totaled 39.20 billion baht – 372 million baht at the fair itself and the rest from purchase orders, according to the organizer. Continued …

Economists urge next government to increase VAT, not capital gains tax

Three Thai leading economists have warned the newly elected government to explore alternative ways of increasing government revenue rather than by hiking the capital gains tax in order to achieve the welfare state system goal.

They were speaking at a seminar on Monday titled “Economic Problems Ahead for the New Government”. The seminar aimed to properly understand Thailand’s current economic situation, the issues that needed to be addressed, and the new government’s policies. Continued …

Thai export decline in April makes it 7th consecutive month of contraction

Thailand’s exports in April contracted 7.6% year on year (YoY), and were worth US$21.723 billion (737.788 baht), marking seven consecutive months of decline, mainly because of the global economic slowdown, the Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday.

Kirati Ratchano, permanent secretary at the Commerce Ministry, told a press conference that Thailand had imported goods worth 797.37 billion baht, declining 7.3% YoY. Continued …

Motorcycle sales surging despite dangers on Thai roads

Despite the unusually high number of road accidents involving motorbikes in Thailand, their sale has risen exponentially in the first three months of this year.

Thosapone Dansuputra, director-general of the Department of Business Development (DBD), said on Tuesday that the sale of motorcycles from January to March this year stood at 557,843. This was 4.5 times higher than the 122,812 cars sold during the period. Continued … 

Thai online marketplaces finally move into profit

Thailand’s e-marketplace players are shifting to profitability after almost a decade of losses, attributed to cautious spending, operating adjustments and increasing service fees.

Shopee posted a profit for the first time in 2022, tallying 2.4 billion baht, while Lazada recorded profit of 413 million baht. Shopee posted revenue of 21.7 billion baht, followed by Lazada with 20 billion baht. Continued …

New government urged to prioritize tourism in first 100 days

With tourism recovery not as strong as expected following the Covid-19 pandemic, the hospitality sector is urging the incoming government to urgently introduce upskilling programs to match the proposed daily wage hike to 450 baht/day.

The sector is also closely monitoring the so-called Secondary City Voucher program proposed by the leader of the Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenrat during a forum in February. Continued …

Tourists from Four Asian Regions Can Now Pay in Thailand with Mobile Wallets

Ant Group, the operator of Alipay+, the global cross-border digital payments and marketing solution has announced that a total of four mobile wallets are now accepted in Thailand. These include AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR), Kakao Pay (South Korea), Touch ‘n Go eWallet (Malaysia) and Alipay (Chinese mainland), which has been accepted by Thai merchants since 2015.

Enabled through Alipay+, the latest development and the addition of three more mobile wallets will expand the seamless digital travel experience for more Asian tourists visiting Thailand, in the midst of a rapid rebound in the local tourism industry. Continued …

10 Exotic Thai Foods You Must Try for a Flavorful Adventure

nd, a vibrant Southeast Asian country, is renowned for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and incredible food.

Thai cuisine offers a harmonious blend of flavors, combining sweet, sour, spicy, and salty tastes to create a unique culinary experience. If you’re an adventurous food lover, Thailand is a paradise filled with exotic dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Continued …

June is another busy month full of festivals and events in Thailand

Along with numerous events and festivals happening around Thailand – including the Bun Luang and Phi Ta Khon Festival 2023 in Loei, the Amazing Thailand Grande Sale 2023 in six destinations across the country, and many different marathons and half marathons, the month of June 2023 also sees one of the most important Buddhist dates observed, this being Visakha Bucha Day on June 3.

Held each year on the full moon of the sixth lunar month, Visakha Bucha Day celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of Lord Buddha. On this day, Buddhists will go to the temple in worship and remembrance of the teachings and social and spiritual values of Buddha, and perform merit-making and candlelight ceremonies. Continued …

Ukraine drone attack hits Moscow buildings

At least eight armed Ukrainian drones targeted the Moscow region early Tuesday, Russian authorities said, damaging several buildings and bringing the war home to Russians after 15 months of destruction across Ukraine’s cities. Continued …

Scientists generate ‘electricity from thin air.’ Humidity could be a boundless source of energy

Sure, we all complain about the humidity on a sweltering summer day. But it turns out that same humidity could be a source of clean, pollution-free energy, according to a new study. Continued …

China’s Largest EV Maker Eyes Control Of Southeast Asia Market

China’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, has begun to penetrate the Southeast Asian market to challenge the stronghold held by Japanese automakers in the region. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-May 24

  • Thailand election: Senators still unsure about backing Pita/Reclassification of cannabis, no lese majeste reform in Move Foward coalition’s plan/MFP to go easy on wage hike/
  • Panthers at Kaeng Krachan Park/
  • Coke drinks to cost 1 baht more/
  • The Popularity of the Thai Durian in China/
  • More Thais open to buying battery-powered vehicles/
  • Renewable power deals to be ready in Q3/
  • Get tough on plastics/
  • US: F-35 fighter jets too sophisticated for Thailand/
  • Tourism: 300-baht tourism fee remains in limbo/E-visa limit will stop Chinese tourists from visiting Thailand: TAT/Cruise ship brings 1,800 tourists to Koh Samui/
  • Thailand Experience: TAT unveils Thailand’s ‘hidden dishes’ from its 5 regions/Last call for tourists to see the unique Thailand Grand Canyon/
  • International: New study pinpoints 83 million jobs that will go extinct by 2027 worldwide/Asia-Pacific countries need US$362 billion annually for climate action/Climate scientists flee Twitter as hostility surges/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Thailand election…

Senators still unsure about backing Pita

The majority of senators have not yet decided if they will back Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat as prime minister, according to outspoken Senator Wanchai Sornsiri.

He said senators exchanged views about the issue on Friday, but their opinions do not represent their final stance or indicate how they will vote. Continued …

Reclassification of cannabis, no lese majeste reform in Move Foward coalition’s plan

Yesterday, Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party, along with leaders from seven other political parties, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at Bangkok’s Conrad Hotel to form a coalition government.

The signing, which took place on the 9th anniversary of the 2014 military coup, was framed as a significant milestone reflecting the success of Thai society in transitioning back to a democratic system through peaceful parliamentary processes. Continued …

MFP to go easy on wage hike

Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat said a coalition government under his leadership would not raise the minimum daily wage to 450 baht immediately but would ensure a reasonable increase without causing damage to industry or the economy. Continued …

Panthers at Kaeng Krachan Park

A mother panther and her cub have been sighted at Kaeng Krachan National Park, according to park officials. The frequent sightings of panthers, officials say, serve as a testament to the thriving and diverse ecosystem that is present within Kaeng Krachan National Park.

Coke drinks to cost 1 baht more

Coke has raised the price of soft drinks by 1 baht, it says to reflect the current higher cost of raw materials and transportation costs, but the overall soft drink market this year is expanding, due to the Asian heatwave.

Richa Singh, Coca-Cola Company’s marketing director for Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, estimates Thailand’s overall soft drinks market to be worth more than 56 billion baht. With the prolonged heatwave, easing of the Covid-19 crisis and the gradual restoration of consumers’ purchasing power this year, growth this year should exceed last year’s 7%, Richa said. Continued …

The Popularity of the Thai Durian in China

Although several Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam, the Philippines and Malaysia, are trying to take market share from China durian import, Thai durian remains popular.

In the first quarter of 2023, China imported more than 63,000 tons, up 78% from the same period last year. Thailand expects to export 4.44 million tons of fruit in 2023, worth a total of 200 billion baht. Continued …

More Thais open to buying battery-powered vehicles

Some 31% of Thais are projected to choose a battery electric vehicle (BEV) as their next vehicle, the highest proportion within Southeast Asia, although internal combustion engine-powered cars remain the leading vehicle of choice among consumers in the region, according to a survey by business advisory Deloitte Thailand.

Both Thai and regional consumers indicated a preference for new cars for their next vehicle. Continued …

Renewable power deals to be ready in Q3

The state grid is expected to sign power purchase agreements (PPAs) with companies selected to join the state’s 5.2-gigawatt renewables scheme within the third quarter of this year, says the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

The Office of the Attorney General is currently examining the legal aspects of the scheme, with power plant construction projects proposed by 175 selected companies. Continued …

Get tough on plastics

As the nation marked World Turtle Day on Tuesday, the caretaker administration made the decision to send Thai delegates to take part in the drafting of an international treaty to regulate the plastic industry, which will take place in Paris later this month.

The meeting is part of the ongoing effort to tackle the growing problem posed by marine debris. The attendance suggests that in the near future, Thailand is likely to ratify the international treaty to help tackle this debris. Continued …

US: F-35 fighter jets too sophisticated for Thailand

Washington has rejected the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF)’s request to buy two F-35 fighter jets on grounds that Thailand is not ready for such sophisticated aircraft.

An RTAF source said on Tuesday that U.S. Ambassador Robert Godec met RTAF chief ACM Alongkorn Wannarot last week to personally inform him of Washington’s decision. Continued …

300-baht tourism fee remains in limbo

The new government is expected to decide the fate of the 300-baht tourism fee, which remains uncertain because of roadblocks from unclear implementation.

Since the cabinet approved in February the collection of a 300-baht tourism fee from foreigners visiting Thailand by air and a 150-baht fee for visitors by land or sea, the scheme has not been published in the Royal Gazette, which means there is no impetus to start the project within a specific time frame. Continued …

E-visa limit will stop Chinese tourists from visiting Thailand: TAT

The current visa system must be changed if Thailand is to achieve its target of 5 million tourists from China this year, according to the Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The return of Chinese visitors since February has helped boost the Thai economic recovery, said TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing Asia and South Pacific Tanes Petsuwan. Continued …

Cruise ship brings 1,800 tourists to Koh Samui

The prestigious Costa Serena cruise ship has dropped anchor at Nathon Pier, Koh Samui, carrying more than 1,800 tourists.

Having embarked on an illustrious journey from Cape Panwa, Thailand, the Costa Serena cruise ship made stops at Sihanoukville, Cambodia, and Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, before finally gracing the shores of Koh Samui. Continued …

TAT unveils Thailand’s ‘hidden dishes’ from its 5 regions

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is hoping that “hidden dishes” from the country’s five regions will spark a new trend – gastronomy tourism.

Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, a deputy TAT governor, unveiled “Thailand’s Hidden Dishes”, which will be showcased at the “Bangkok International Food Festival”. The food fest runs from Friday to next Tuesday at CentralWorld. The selected “hidden dishes” are: Continued …

Last call for tourists to see the unique Thailand Grand Canyon

Tourists have only a few more days available to explore the weird and unique wonders of the Thailand Grand Canyon, known locally as “Sam Phan Bok”, before the rains arrive.

Situated at Ban Pho Sai district in Ubon Ratchathani province in Thailand’s northeastern region, “Sam Phan Bok” is the largest sandstone reef along the Mekong River. Continued …

New study pinpoints 83 million jobs that will go extinct by 2027 worldwide

The global job market will undergo significant changes between 2023 and 2027, according to the “Future of Jobs” survey conducted by the Chulalongkorn Business School and the World Economic Forum. The survey, which involved 803 companies in 45 countries, revealed that of the current 673 million jobs, 83 million will be eliminated by 2027. However, it also said that 69 million new jobs will be created. Continued …

Asia-Pacific countries need US$362 billion annually for climate action

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) highlighted the urgent need for significant funding to support climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts in the Asia-Pacific region. Continued …

Climate scientists flee Twitter as hostility surges

Scientists suffering insults and mass-spam are abandoning Twitter for alternative social networks as hostile climate-change denialism surges on the platform following Elon Musk’s takeover. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news-May 23

  • Thailand’s rains arrive, but will not be enough to fill reservoirs/
  • Devastating Rainstorm Claims 6 Lives at Phichit school/
  • Over 10,000 Covid Cases In Chonburi Last Week/
  • Move Forward’s ‘Government of Hope’ coalition delivers a program promising a new charter/
  • Foreign investment posts 77% rise in value/
  • Struggling to survive/
  • Chon Buri woman discovers pearl in local market oyster/
  • Farmer in Phitsanulok puts buffalo up for sale for US$1.5 million/
  • Huge explosion at rocket festival sends locals fleeing in Kalasin/
  • Unregulated cannabis expected to be curtailed/
  • Tourism: Two views of elephant tourism in Thailand/Phuket speedboat driver tests positive for meth after crash injuring 37 tourists/TAT to boost safety measures/
  • International: Sino-ASEAN land-sea trade corridor shows great vitality/Climate: ‘dangerous heat’ could afflict billions by 2100/Chinese researchers discover evidence of ancient ocean on Mars/Brazil faces dilemma: endangered macaw vs wind farm/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Thailand’s rains arrive, but will not be enough to fill reservoirs

Some parts of Thailand will suffer water shortages despite rains this year, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) announced. According to TMD, Thailand’s wet season arrived on Monday and will last until mid-October.

Some areas are expected to be hit with heavy rain until early June, while thundershowers will hit up to 80% of the east of Thailand and the southern west coast. Continued …

Devastating Rainstorm Claims 6 Lives at Phichit school

As anticipated by the Meteorological Department’s forecast for the onset of the rainy season, heavy rainfall swept through multiple areas of Phichit province, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The province had braced itself for 20% of the predicted rainfall, and the forecast proved to be spot on.

During the rainfall, strong winds and a cyclonic storm affected the Wat Noinpo School located in Sam Ngam District, Phichit. The school had a large dome building used as a volleyball court, a 7-a-side football field, and for various other sports activities. Continued … 

Over 10,000 Covid Cases In Chonburi Last Week

Chon Buri’s Public Health office said yesterday that there were 10,648 new Covid cases and 12 deaths last week (May 14-20), with the majority being the elderly. Of this total, 13 were being treated for pneumonia while 19 require oxygen.

People in this province adjacent to Bangkok were urged to strictly follow Covid prevention measures as follows: Continued …

Move Forward’s ‘Government of Hope’ coalition delivers a program promising a new charter

The deputy leader of the Move Forward Party, tipped to be Thailand’s next Minister of Finance, Sirikanya Tansakul, on Monday spoke about growing confidence that the party would be able to form its proposed government with Pheu Thai, with more support coming from within parliament and positive noises from the Thai Senate.

The proposed coalition, on Monday afternoon, published a memorandum of understanding signed by the eight parties, which did not refer to the controversial Section 112 provision on lèse-majesté and promised a new constitutional reform program would be launched within 100 days with a referendum to be put to the people, which could lead to a new constituent assembly. me of reform being proposed by what the Move Forward Party describes as a ‘government of hope’ for Thailand. Continued …

Foreign investment posts 77% rise in value

The value of investment in Thailand soared by 77% year-on-year to 185.7 billion baht from 397 project proposals between January and March, with South Korea being the top foreign investor in terms of value in the first quarter, says the Board of Investment (BoI).

Foreign investment accounted for 155.2 billion of total investment, a year-on-year increase of 115%. Continued …

Struggling to survive

You are what you eat, but some do not have the privilege to choose. Nai, who is skinny and short for his age, lacks more than just a proper diet. He has been abandoned by his mother, and his father is serving a jail term. As a result, his uncle has kindly taken him into his own family.

But like others, he is living from hand-to-mouth, so providing his nephew with a balanced diet from the five food groups is difficult. Due to a lack of variety in their diet, slum children, though not starving, are suffering from malnutrition. Continued …

Chon Buri woman discovers pearl in local market oyster

A lucky woman in Chon Buri found a valuable pearl inside a large oyster purchased from a local market. The resident, Thevalee Sitonwong, discovered the stunning orange pearl while preparing a meal for her and her husband.

Thevalee revealed that she and her husband had gone to the market to buy some ingredients for their dinner, which included a popular Thai dish named Som Tum. They bought two large oysters, intending to cook them as part of their meal. As per usual, Thevalee cleaned and boiled the oysters before serving, and just as they began to eat, her husband bit down on something hard within the oyster’s flesh. Continued …

Farmer in Phitsanulok puts buffalo up for sale for US$1.5 million

A farmer in Thailand put a giant water buffalo up for sale for 50 million baht (US$1.45 million) yesterday.

Forget a pool villa in Phuket, for the same price you could bag yourself one of the biggest buffaloes Thailand has ever seen. “Petch Lamkhong,” a three-year-old water buffalo (“kwai“) from “Big Ice Farm” in Phitsanulok, weighed in at a whopping 1.4 tons at the 6th Phitsanulok Giant Buffalo Contest yesterday. Continued …

Huge explosion at rocket festival sends locals fleeing in Kalasin

A dramatic display unfolded during the annual Bun Bang Fai Talai Lan Festival in Kalasin Province’s Kuchinarai District as a single 20-million-fireworks rocket lifted off and exploded mid-air. The festival, which took place yesterday, is uniquely celebrated in this province, with numerous rockets being launched into the sky, attracting numerous local and international tourists.

At around 7pm, footage of the 20-million-fireworks rocket explosion was shared on the Facebook Page “Taxi Roi-Et 092-9030306.” The one-of-a-kind rocket was seen bursting mid-air, causing sparks and debris to shower down on frightened spectators. Fortunately, no one was injured as the event organizers had taken necessary precautions and arranged security measures. Continued …

Unregulated cannabis expected to be curtailed

The ease of buying marijuana on the streets of every province in Thailand will soon come to an end, as nearly all parties who contested Thailand’s election are calling for the repeal of the law that famously decriminalized the cannabis plant.

In the absence of strict regulations, the cannabis industry has flourished in Thailand. With over 250,000 growers and more than 4,500 dispensaries selling ganja in every province, the industry was valued at $1 billion by 2025 by University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce. Thailand has become so notorious for cannabis this is prompting law enforcement agents in other countries to screen returning travelers for cannabis use. Continued …

Two views of elephant tourism in Thailand

The history of people and elephants in Chian Mai goes back thousands of years. Centuries ago, Thai kings rode these giants into battle. Elephants were used in harvesting timber until Thailand banned logging in national forests in 1989, prompting many owners to turn to tourism.

An elephant being “trained” for tourism

Then came the dramatic halt caused by the pandemic. Elephants are expensive to keep (they can eat more than 300 pounds of food a day). Most elephant attractions closed their doors, and many elephant owners – who rented out their animals to tourism operators – brought them back to their villages, some walking along the road for days. Continued …

Phuket speedboat driver tests positive for meth after crash injuring 37 tourists

The man who crashed a speedboat into a channel marker in Chalong Bay in Phuket, southern Thailand – injuring 37 Thai and foreign tourists – on Wednesday tested positive for methamphetamine.

The 29-year-old tour boat driver, Sathit Mardchai, underwent a blood test for alcohol and drugs following the incident, commander of Phuket Provincial Police Maj. Gen. Sermphan Sirikong said yesterday. Continued …

TAT to boost safety measures

With the number of Chinese visitors hitting 1 million, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Tourist Police Bureau have committed to strengthening safety measures for travelers.

Tanes Petsuwan, TAT deputy governor for Asia and the South Pacific, said the TAT still has work to do to reach the target of 5 million Chinese tourists this year, with about 70% expected to be independent tourists with high purchasing power who are unfazed by deflation in China. Continued …

Sino-ASEAN land-sea trade corridor shows great vitality

The new International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, a major international logistics project, has achieved great success, as a recent report shows that its development index in 2022 surged to 135.2 from 122.6 in 2021 and 102 in 2020. Continued …

Climate: ‘dangerous heat’ could afflict billions by 2100

Current policies to limit global warming will expose more than a fifth of humanity to extreme and potentially life-threatening heat by century’s end, researchers warned Monday. Continued …

Meta hit with record 1.2-billion-euro fine over EU data rules

Facebook owner Meta has been fined a record 1.2 billion euros ($1.3 billion) for transferring EU user data to the United States in breach of a previous court ruling, Ireland’s regulator announced on Monday. Continued …

Chinese researchers discover evidence of ancient ocean on Mars

Chinese researchers have uncovered direct evidence of an ancient ocean on Mars’s northern plains, according to a team from the China University of Geosciences in Wuhan. The discovery, recently published in the journal National Science Review, has the potential to further solidify our understanding of the Red Planet’s geological history. Continued …

Brazil faces dilemma: endangered macaw vs wind farm

A wind farm in northeastern Brazil sounds like a welcome climate-friendly energy solution, but it is causing controversy over another kind of environmental worry: the impact on the endangered Lear’s macaw. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, climate change, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-May 18

  • How people in Prachuap Khiri Khan voted in the general election/
  • Four scenarios for next Thai govt and only two have Pita as PM/
  • What role will senators play in naming Thailand’s next PM?/
  • Move Forward lines up changes for 45 laws as soon as Parliament reopens/
  • Royal Ploughing Ceremony forecasts bumper crops and prosperity for year ahead/
  • Baby elephant saved after falling in a golf course well/
  • Cyanide murder suspect had massive online gaming debts/
  • Teen Girl, 2 Youths Held For Killing Chinese Factory Owner/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Residential sales revenue delines in Q1/CBRE Reveals Positive Signs of Foreign Demand for Luxury Residences in Thailand/Thailand Remains Popular Filming Location/Thailand keen to serve as ASEAN energy hub/Thailand eases EV restrictions to attract European manufacturers/US$20M invested in data center expansion amid cloud services boom/3 municipal biomass power plants approved/After election, Thai cannabis ready to roll with the changes/
  • Tourism: Tourism to limit economic pain as new government awaited/Pattaya Police ban prostitution on the beach/30 tourists injured, 1 missing after Phuket speedboat crashes into pillar/Flights to Mae Hong Son to resume in August/
  • International: Heat Wave in Asia Made 30 Times More Likely Because of Climate Change/Vietnam bets big on LNG, South China Sea gas fields/Four kids, including baby, found alive in Amazon after plane crash/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

How people in Prachuap Khiri Khan voted in the general election

The Election Commission of Prachuap Khiri Khan has announced the results of how people in the province voted during the election, which took place on Sunday. Officials said that Prachuap Khiri Khan witnessed higher voter turnout in this election.

According to the unofficial results released by the Election Commission of Prachuap Khiri Khan, 328,366 people, or 76.4% of eligible voters, cast their ballots out of a total of 429,883 eligible voters. This is a significant increase compared to the 2019 election, which had a voter turnout of 70.2%. Continued …

Pita Limjaroenrat

Four scenarios for next Thai govt and only two have Pita as PM

Even though Move Forward Party won Sunday’s general election with 152 seats, that won’t be enough for party leader Pita to become Thailand’s 30th prime minister.

Pita will need a majority of at least 376 votes from the 500-seat House of Representatives to nullify the 250 votes from the junta-appointed Senate. The four scenarios for the next government’s formation are as follows: Continued …

What role will senators play in naming Thailand’s next PM?

Despite declaring that Move Forward will form the next coalition with five other parties, party leader Pita Limjaroenrat is facing one formidable obstacle on his journey to the premiership – the junta-appointed Senate.

Move Forward’s allies are Pheu Thai, Thai Sang Thai, Thai Liberal, Prachachart and Fair parties, and together they will have 310 of the 500-seat House of Representatives. Continued …

Move Forward lines up changes for 45 laws as soon as Parliament reopens

Move Forward Party will submit 45 bills to either amend or enact new laws once Parliament reopens, a party executive said.

Bencha Saengchantra, a Move Forward party-list MP, said on Wednesday that the 45 bills will aim to reform the bureaucracy and abolish mandatory conscription. In her post, she grouped the 45 items into eight groups, as follows: Continued …

Royal Ploughing Ceremony forecasts bumper crops and prosperity for year ahead

The year ahead will be one of bumper crops, booming trade, and economic growth for Thailand, according to Wednesday morning’s Royal Ploughing Ceremony.

The ceremony was held at Sanam Luang at 8.30am and was presided over by Their Majesties the King and Queen. It was the second day of the annual two-day ceremony, during which the King blesses the start of the rice-growing season. Continued …

Baby elephant saved after falling in a golf course well

The calf was found in a cement well at Chatrium Golf Course in Chanthaburi Province. Staff from the local wildlife sanctuary and volunteers scrambled to save it, using a digger to dig around the well as its mother watched on. Video …

Cyanide murder suspect had massive online gaming debts

Online gambling debts are believed to be the leading motive of murder suspect Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, who allegedly poisoned at least 14 people with the deadly chemical cyanide, Deputy National Police Chief Surachet Hakparn said on Wednesday.

He said police discovered 78 million baht spread over 180 bank accounts belonging to Sararat, which had been used to transfer money to and from several online gambling websites. Continued …

Teen Girl, 2 Youths Held For Killing Chinese Factory Owner

Police arrested a teenage girl and two youths on the charges of stabbing a Chinese parawood processing factory owner to death at a resort in Trang province after the girl called for help upon being physically assaulted by her sex client.

The 17-year-old girl, only identified as Fai, together with Natdanai (surname withheld), 22, and Nattaphon, 19, were arrested in Satun province after being tracked down there and were charged with jointly killing Li Zhri Rui, 43, a Chinese national and owner of several parawood processing factories in the south by stabbing him around 20 times in the rented room. Continued …

Residential sales revenue delines in Q1

The expiration of the easing of loan-to-value (LTV) limits has had an impact on two-thirds of listed developers, resulting in residential sales revenue declining year-on-year in the first quarter of 2023.

Based on reports submitted to the Stock Exchange of Thailand, of the 30 developers engaged in residential development business, 20 experienced a year-on-year decline in revenue from residential sales in the first quarter. Continued …

CBRE Reveals Positive Signs of Foreign Demand for Luxury Residences in Thailand

CBRE, one of the world’s leading property consultants, says foreign interest in purchasing luxury residences in Thailand, including condominiums, houses, and villas in prime locations, has surged since the return of international tourists in the second half of 2022.

Sales transactions through CBRE have increased by more than 200%-300%, confirming this trend. In response to the growing demand, developers are gearing up to launch new luxury and super-luxury residential projects in 2023, with a particular focus on single houses. Continued …

Thailand Remains Popular Filming Location

Thailand remains a popular filming location among international production houses. Filming activities have generated massive revenue for the country and local people, while at the same time revitalizing the country’s own film industry.

Thailand has maintained its reputation as a popular filming location and has recently welcomed the production teams of two series from Singapore and the U.S. television network HBO, who chose Hat Yai City in Songkhla as a filming location. Continued …

Thailand keen to serve as ASEAN energy hub

Thailand is ready to be ASEAN’s future energy and mobility hub, as part of the global trend to improve sustainability through collaboration with countries worldwide, a senior Thai official said.

Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo, deputy permanent secretary at the Energy Ministry, revealed this ambitious objective during his speech at the opening ceremony on Wednesday of “Future Energy Asia and Future Mobility Asia Exhibition and Summit 2023”. Continued …

Thailand eases EV restrictions to attract European manufacturers

The caretaker Cabinet on Tuesday approved changes aimed at making it easier for European and other foreign manufacturers of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to set up production in Thailand.

The two amendments to the EV3.5 promotion package offer more flexibility in the requirement for foreign manufacturers to offset imports to Thailand with an equal number of BEV units manufactured here. Continued …

US$20M invested in data center expansion amid cloud services boom

Etix Itel Bangkok Co., the company behind the ETIX Bangkok#1 data center, is set to invest nearly US$20 million in expanding its capacity to meet the increasing demand for cloud services and digital transformation in Thailand. The growth of the digital economy in the country has been bolstered by global cloud providers investing in the region.

The data center is currently in its second phase, with a capacity of 0.6 megawatts and 85% occupancy. The company anticipates full capacity in the next quarter and is preparing for the third phase, worth US$11 million, which will increase capacity by an additional 1.5MW in the fourth quarter of 2024. Continued …

A biomass-fired power plant operated by TGE in Surat Thani

3 municipal biomass power plants approved

Thachang Green Energy (TGE), a SET-listed biomass power plant developer and operator, has been awarded contracts to develop three municipal solid waste-fired power plants as the firm aims to reach a revenue target of more than 3 billion baht in 2026. Last year TGE’s revenue was 955 million baht.

The company signed power purchase agreements (PPAs) with the Provincial Electricity Authority, the state electricity distribution arm, to supply electricity to three administrative bodies in Ratchaburi, Sa Kaeo and Chumphon. Continued …

After election, Thai cannabis ready to roll with the changes

Is the sky falling on Thailand’s nascent cannabis industry? Not according to some of its biggest players.

After the votes were counted Sunday, cannabis entrepreneurs were even more confident that the future of weed is green, with most saying the outcome gave them more confidence that much-needed regulation will be rational and reasonable under a Move Forward-led coalition government. Continued …

Tourism to limit economic pain as new government awaited

Thailand has not been spared the political uncertainty that usually comes with elections, yet foreign tourists returning by the millions this year are counted on to help shield Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy.

The influx of visitors — totaling 6.5 million in the first quarter of 2023 compared with 498,000 a year ago — is aiding greater business and consumer activity in Thailand. On track to hit the government’s target of hosting three times more foreign guests this year from 10 million in 2022, tourism is seen as an anchor amid the political noise, even as the exports growth-engine sputters. Continued …

Pattaya Police ban prostitution on the beach

Thailand’s Tourist Police have banned sex workers from selling services on the beach in Pattaya.

Last night, Tourist Police and officers from Pattaya City Police Station headed down to Pattaya Beach and instructed the city’s ladies and ladyboys of the night to move along. Continued …

30 tourists injured, 1 missing after Phuket speedboat crashes into pillar

Thirty tourists, most of them Russian, have been injured after the tour boat they were traveling in crashed into a concrete pillar/navigation marker approaching Chalong Pier in the south of Phuket. According to a number of media reports, one person is still missing following the incident, which happened at around 5.30pm yesterday.

There were over 33 people on board when the Thanathip Marine speedboat hit a channel marker in Chalong Bay as it was bringing tourists back from a trip to the Phi Phi islands (about a 45-minute journey). Provincial marine chief Nachapong Pranit says that in addition to the tourists and the boat driver, the driver’s assistant and a tour guide were also on board. Continued …

Flights to Mae Hong Son to resume in August

Tourism operators in Mae Hong Son expect a more active market during the cool season, with Bangkok Airways poised to revive flights from the capital after Nok Air ended operations in April.

Phanuwat Khatnak, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Mae Hong Son office, expects air travel to increase tourist numbers by 10%, as there are currently no commercial flights. The tourist tally this year would reach 1.5 million, he said. Continued …

Heat Wave in Asia Made 30 Times More Likely Because of Climate Change

A searing heat wave in parts of southern Asia in April this year was made at least 30 times more likely by climate change, according to a rapid study by international scientists released Wednesday. Continued …

Vietnam bets big on LNG, South China Sea gas fields

Vietnam’s plan to quadruple by 2030 its gas-processing capacity, turning it into its first source of energy, marks a big bet on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) and its reserves in the South China Sea, despite supply and geopolitical risks. Continued …

Four kids, including baby, found alive in Amazon after plane crash

Four Indigenous children, including an 11-month-old baby, have been found alive in the dense Colombian Amazon after a plane crash more than two weeks ago, President Gustavo Petro said Wednesday, declaring “joy for the country.” Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

climate change, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-May 13

  • Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend/
  • ‘Monster’ Asian heatwave and arrival of El Niño signal severe drought crisis/
  • Thai parties make push to woo voters ahead of Sunday election/
  • Thailand’s long and winding election road/
  • Even wild elephants no match for Chachoengsao dogs/
  • Exploring the peace corps’ 60-year history in Thailand/
  • Thailand’s experiment with weed goes up in smoke/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Number of registered businesses at highest level in a decade/EV Primus angles to create EV supermarket/Chon Buri to get new EV battery factory/Asia Biomass eyes 20% revenue growth in 2023/El Nino May Slash Thai Rice Crop and Spur Inflation Across Asia/
  • Tourism: Thai tourism rebound evident with surge in new business registrations/‘Entry Thailand’ website introduced to provide useful information to visitors/
  • International: Russia Retreats North Of Bakhmut, Mercenary Boss Calls It A ‘Rout’/G-7 finance chiefs boost Ukraine aid, propose supply chain plan/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

 

Due to the election tomorrow, there will be no alcohol sales from 6pm tonight until 6pm Sunday.

 

 

Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend

The north, central, eastern and southern regions of Thailand will experience isolated heavy to very heavy rains from Friday to Monday due to the influence of tropical cyclone “Mocha”, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said on Friday.

The cyclone, which was hovering over the central Bay of Bengal as of 4am Friday, was moving north at about 10 km/hr with sustained winds of about 105 km/hr. It is expected to make landfall over Myanmar on either Sunday or Monday. Continued …

‘Monster’ Asian heatwave and arrival of El Niño signal severe drought crisis

Thailand is susceptible to the effects of El Niño, which is forecast by the Department of Meteorology and weather experts to commence in June. The world, Thailand included, is expected to face an intense drought due to the occurrence of El Niño, leading to reduced rainfall during the rainy season, or possibly no rain at all.

El Niño is the warm phase of a cyclical climate pattern known as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, when temperatures in the Pacific reach more than 0.5 degrees Celsius above normal. Continued …

Thai parties make push to woo voters ahead of Sunday election

Surrounded by adoring crowds packed inside stadiums and halls, the main prime ministerial candidates of Thailand’s political parties made a final push to rally supporters on Friday, two days before a crunch general election.

After nearly a decade of a government that was led or backed by its royalist military, some 52 million eligible voters in Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy will head to polling stations on Sunday when voters will choose whether to stay the course with military-linked conservatives or opt for change. Continued …

Thailand’s long and winding election road

When Thais go to the polls on Sunday, the challenge is how to help lay the groundwork for a system that can prevent the next election from being held under similar circumstances. It’s a tough ask, but every election presents a fresh hope, no matter how difficult the path remains.

The major paradox is there for all to see. It can’t be an election without heroes and villains, and it can’t be an election without everyone wanting to be a hero at the expense of others. It’s the way things are, but it’s not the way things are supposed to be. Continued … 

Even wild elephants no match for Chachoengsao dogs

An amusing scene of wild elephants being chased out of a residential area by a pack of domesticated dogs was captured on film by villagers on Friday evening.

A herd of some 20 wild elephants had wandered into Ban Khlong Mahad village in Chachoengsao’s Tha Takiab district, said Somwong Chanthachote, chief of the village’s “Elephant Watch” volunteer group. Continued …

Exploring the peace corps’ 60-year history in Thailand

The Peace Corps is a United States agency established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to promote peace and friendship worldwide. Peace Corps volunteers have been working in Thailand since 1962, assisting Thai government agencies in various fields.

Currently, they operate in two main projects: teacher collaboration for development and youth development. Over 5,500 volunteers have worked with Thai communities for more than 60 years, but their work was halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, Peace Corps volunteers returned to Thailand and underwent a 10-week training program before being dispatched to 29 provinces across the country. Their swearing-in ceremony coincided with the 60th-anniversary celebration of Peace Corps cooperation in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand’s experiment with weed goes up in smoke

After four years of support from the ruling coalition government, Thailand is expected to vote against the decriminalization of marijuana in Sunday’s general election. The current free-for-all and weed shops lining the busy tourist streets appears unlikely to continue in the months after the election and a new parliament is settled.

Almost all of the political parties involved in the 2023 national election are in favor of returning to the previous policies of marijuana prohibition and confining its use to medicinal purposes only. Only one party is still seeking some sort of policy that would allow and regulate recreational use. Continued …

Number of registered businesses at highest level in a decade

A total of 6,041 new businesses were registered in April, an increase of 12.37% over the same period last year, according to data released by the Department of Business Development under the Commerce Ministry.

The total number of registered establishments in operation during the first four months of this year reached 32,223, the highest in the past decade. The tourism sector saw 100% growth, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit disclosed on Friday. Continued …

EV Primus angles to create EV supermarket

The growing electric vehicle (EV) market in Thailand is leading car dealers to consider what EV brands should be featured in their showrooms.

Instead of relying on one brand, EV Primus sells a variety of brands, focusing on cars that match the different lifestyles of drivers. Continued …

Chon Buri to get new EV battery factory

Chinese high-tech enterprise Anwha (Shanghai) Automation Engineering has chosen Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor as its first overseas production base to make batteries for electric vehicles (Evs) under the MG brand.

“The factory will be located near the MG plant in Chon Buri,” said Anwha’s business development consultant Jay Teo, referring to a car assembly facility operated by Thai-Chinese joint venture SAIC Motor-CP, the manufacturer of MG cars. Continued …

Asia Biomass eyes 20% revenue growth in 2023

Asia Biomass Plc (ABM), Thailand’s largest biomass fuel producer and trader by volume, expects revenue to grow by 20% this year to more than 3.6 billion baht thanks to its business expansion amid growing concerns over global warming.

The company’s sales volume is projected to be 1 million tons in 2023. Last year, ABM revenue grew by 41% to 2.71 billion baht, up from 1.92 billion in 2021. Continued …

El Nino May Slash Thai Rice Crop and Spur Inflation Across Asia

Thailand, the world’s second-biggest rice exporter, is asking farmers to grow only one crop this year — instead of the usual two — as a likely El Nino looks set to reduce rainfall.

Rice is highly water-intensive and is dependent on irrigation and enough precipitation. It’s an early sign of how the disruptive weather pattern is threatening global food production. The resulting drop in rice output also has the potential to push up prices of a staple food for more than half the world’s population. Continued …

Thai tourism rebound evident with surge in new business registrations

Thailand’s tourism sector has witnessed a strong rebound, as evidenced by the significant surge in new registrations for tourism-related businesses during the initial four months of this year.

The Ministry of Commerce revealed yesterday that the number of new tourism-related business registrations had doubled year-on-year, reaching 2,579 in the first four months, with a total registered capital increase of 135% to 6.66 billion baht. Continued …

‘Entry Thailand’ website introduced to provide useful information to visitors

Thailand’s Department of Tourism has introduced “www.entrythailand.go.th,” a website that contains useful information, news, related websites, and applications for travelers on arrival and during their stay in Thailand.

The website features:

– Thailand information
– Real-time, in-depth flight information
– SHA/SHA+ accommodation booking
– Reservation home and camping
– Cultural calendar
– Weather warnings
– Thai disaster alert mobile application
– Thailand tourism directory
– VAT refund for tourists. Continued …

Russia Retreats North Of Bakhmut, Mercenary Boss Calls It A ‘Rout’

Moscow acknowledged on Friday that its forces had fallen back north of Ukraine’s battlefield city of Bakhmut after a new Ukrainian offensive, in a retreat that the head of Russia’s Wagner private army called a rout. Continued …

G-7 finance chiefs boost Ukraine aid, propose supply chain plan

Group of Seven (G-7) finance chiefs put more aid on the table for Ukraine, set up a new supply chain initiative and vowed to fill regulatory gaps in the banking sector in a show of unity on global geo-economic issues after three days of talks. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

climate change, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-May 12

  • Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend/
  • Thai banks considering cash transaction fee ‘to cover their costs’/
  • Practical tips for learning Thai as a beginner/
  • Global warming and smog are boosting production of Thai air conditioners/
  • RTA army chief assures there’ll be ‘no coups on his watch’/
  • Foreign community looks to newly elected government for better investment opportunities/
  • Uptick in consumer confidence persists/
  • Roughly 60% of people in Asia-Pacific work a side job/
  • Thai cement firm ‘prints’ two-story medical center/
  • Arson attacks strike 23 locations in far south/
  • Why buying cannabis in Thailand might get tougher after election/
  • Tourism: TAT targets digital nomads with 100-baht travel vouchers on weekdays/Tourists flee as python slithers into Krabi’s Emerald Pool/Western tourists embrace traditional Chinese medicine in Thailand/THAI, Bangkok Airways earnings surge as tourists flock back/
  • Thailand Experience: The Food School Bangkok: Where Culinary Dreams Come to Life/
  • International: ASEAN pushes for greater local currency use/Labuan Bajo: Why is the Indonesian town known as the next Bali?/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend

The north, central, eastern and southern regions of Thailand will experience isolated heavy to very heavy rains from Friday to Monday due to the influence of tropical cyclone “Mocha”, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said today.

The cyclone, which was hovering over the central Bay of Bengal as of 4am today, was moving north at about 10 km/hr, with sustained winds of about 105 km/hr. It is expected to make landfall over Myanmar on either Sunday or Monday (May 14-15). Continued …

Thai banks considering cash transaction fee ‘to cover their costs’

The members of the Thai Bankers’ Assn. are considering adjusting banks’ fee structures, including levying a cash transaction fee, the association president, Payong Srivanich, said. The association will have to seek approval for the move from the Bank of Thailand (BOT).

Payong, who is also the executive director and member of Krungthai Bank’s risk oversight committee, said the adjustment of the fee structure was aimed at striking a balance between the banks’ costs and services, and not to increase profits. Continued …

Practical tips for learning Thai as a beginner

Learning a new language can be challenging, and Thai is no exception. As a beginner, you might find yourself struggling to grasp the tonal nuances of the language, the unfamiliar script, and the sheer volume of vocabulary to learn.

But with the right mindset and approach, learning Thai can be an exciting and rewarding journey that opens up a world of possibilities. And to make your language-learning journey smoother and more enjoyable, we’ve put together some practical tips that will help you get started on the right track. Continued …

Global warming and smog are boosting production of Thai air conditioners

Scorching heat and air pollution have driven production of air conditioners in Thailand to their highest level in eight years, the Office of Industrial Economics said on Thursday.

Warawan Chitaroon, its general director, said Thailand exported about US$850 million worth of air conditioners in March alone, up 16.7% from the same month last year. Continued …

RTA army chief assures there’ll be ‘no coups on his watch’

Royal Thai Army (RTA) Gen. Narongpan Jittkaewtae assured the Thai public yesterday that there would be no coups on his watch, stating that the term should not exist in anyone’s vocabulary. Narongpan is set to retire on Sept. 30 and provided reassurances in the lead-up to the elections on Sunday. There have been concerns about possible unrest following the polls.

When questioned about the potential for future unrest and the military’s response, the Army chief explained that he was not worried. Continued …

Foreign community looks to newly elected government for better investment opportunities

Thailand’s foreign community is hoping for a more democratic and investor-friendly new government to emerge from the general election taking place this Sunday, May 14.

Jon Åström Gröndahl, Swedish ambassador to Thailand, said: “Sweden welcomes Thailand’s general election and hopes that it will be a free and fair election.” Continued …

Uptick in consumer confidence persists

Consumer confidence in April rose for an 11th straight month, reaching the highest level in 38 months, helped by a reduction in Covid-19 infections, the recovery of domestic tourism and lively election campaigns nationwide.

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) reported on Thursday the consumer confidence index rose to 55 in April from 53.8 in March, 52.6 in February and 51.7 in January. Continued …

Roughly 60% of people in Asia-Pacific work a side job

Almost 60% of people in Asia-Pacific have a side job, with the majority saying they do so to make ends meet, according to a recent survey from global health and wellness company Herbalife.

Findings from Herbalife’s 2023 Asia-Pacific Side Job Survey indicated almost 3 in 5 (59%) respondents have a side job, with the top reason (61%) being to make ends meet. Continued …

Thai cement firm ‘prints’ two-story medical center

Thailand’s Siam Cement Group (SCG) has printed a two-story medical center in Saraburi, billed as the first of its kind in the world.

It used Danish printer-maker Cobod’s BOD2 concrete printer to build the 345-sq-meter facility faster and with fewer workers compared to conventional construction practices, Cobod said. Continued …

Arson attacks strike 23 locations in far south

Twenty-three locations in Thailand’s southernmost provinces were hit by arson attacks late on Thursday night, resulting in the torching of mobile phone antenna towers and power poles and the burning of tires. The incidents occurred between 9pm and 11pm, officials said.

The affected areas included seven locations in Muang, Raman and Thanto districts of Yala; 12 locations in Muang, Nong Chik, Sai Buri, and Yarang districts of Pattani; and four locations in Muang, Rueso and Tak Bai districts of Narathiwat. Continued …

Why buying cannabis in Thailand might get tougher after election

The days of easily buying marijuana on the streets of Bangkok or Phuket may soon be over.

Four years after the Bhumjaithai party won almost four million votes on a vow to decriminalize cannabis — then carrying it out as the third-biggest bloc in a military-backed government — the tide has turned: most of the parties contesting Sunday’s national election are calling for the measure to be repealed and restrict the use of cannabis to medical purposes. Continued …

TAT targets digital nomads with 100-baht travel vouchers on weekdays

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on Thursday launched a new campaign offering tourism promotions for as little as 100 baht to encourage Thais to travel during the week and work remotely.

Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, TAT deputy governor for the domestic market, announced the “Workation Thailand for only 100 baht” campaign at a press conference, saying its goal was to increase domestic travel and overnight stays during weekdays by offering tourism products and services for as little as 100 baht each. Continued …

Tourists flee as python slithers into Krabi’s Emerald Pool

A two-meter-long python slithered into the popular Emerald Pool in Krabi province in southern Thailand on Tuesday, sending panicked tourists clambering in all directions.

In a chaotic TikTok clip, tourists scream as one brave swimmer splashes water at the python on the poolside in an attempt to drive it away. But it was a hot day. The python wanted to cool off, too. Video 

Western tourists embrace traditional Chinese medicine in Thailand

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is seeing a surge in popularity among Western tourists visiting Thailand and other Asian nations where TCM is widely practiced and easily accessible. Visitors are often drawn to TCM due to its perceived effectiveness, the use of natural remedies, and its holistic approach to health and wellness.

In recent years, TCM has received increased recognition and acceptance in the Western world, with many countries legalizing and regulating its practice. This has also contributed to the growing number of Western tourists seeking TCM treatments while vacationing in Thailand. Continued …

THAI, Bangkok Airways earnings surge as tourists flock back

Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways reported a surge in first-quarter earnings as tourists flocked back to the nation.

Thai Air posted net income of 12.51 billion baht in the three months through March, rebounding from a net loss of 3.25 billion baht a year earlier. Bangkok Airways’ net income was 875 million baht versus a net loss of 1.02 billion baht in the same quarter last year. Continued …

The Food School Bangkok: Where Culinary Dreams Come to Life

Aspiring chefs seeking an exceptional learning experience that can launch a highly successful career need look no further than The Food School Bangkok, a progressive culinary school that brings together three renowned partner institutes in a single location.

ALMA – The School of Italian Culinary Arts from Italy, TSUJI Culinary Institute from Japan, and Dusit Thani College from Thailand have joined forces to create a unique culinary educational experience for aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts. Continued …

ASEAN pushes for greater local currency use

ASEAN leaders declared at this week’s summit in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, that member countries should use their own currencies more often in intraregional trade, as the bloc aims to insulate the region from external volatility. Continued …

Labuan Bajo: Why is the Indonesian town known as the next Bali?

Southeast Asia’s leaders are meeting this week in an enchanting harbor town known as a “gateway to the dragons” and one of Indonesia’s “10 new Balis”. Labuan Bajo is a once-quiet fishing village nestled in the westernmost part of Flores Island, in east Indonesia’s Nusa Tenggara region. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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

Thursday’s news-May 11

  • Meteorological Dept issues tropical depression warning/
  • 23 Illegal Immigrants arrested in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province/
  • 50 satang reduction in diesel price just not worth it, says LTAT chief/
  • A volunteer’s view of daily life at Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand in Phetchaburi/
  • Thai, Chinese Police Cooperate in Crackdown on Chinese Crooks/
  • Covid-19 Guidelines Provided to Schools/
  • 78 million baht found in accounts linked to suspected ‘cyanide killer’/
  • Murdered youth’s father goes ballistic at re-enactment/
  • Wild elephant tramples woman to death in front of officials/
  • Expressway from southern Bangkok to Suvarnabhumi being studied/
  • The political significance of the marigold bloom/
  • Circular economy could generate millions of job opportunities/
  • Tourism: Thailand targets high-spending Middle Eastern tourists for tourism growth/TAT pushes for bigger visa quota to meet surging demand of Chinese tourists/
  • Thailand Experience: Thailand touts traditional charms of 55 cities and towns off the tourist trail/Most Extreme Seafood Tour of Bangkok/
  • International: Gold demand surges amid jitters/Toyota projects 10% profit growth, five-fold increase in EV sales this year/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Meteorological Dept issues tropical depression warning

A tropical depression in the Bay of Bengal, which is moving toward Thailand, is expected to bring heavy rain to the northern, central, eastern, and southern regions from May 11-16, the Meteorological Department warned today.

A tropical depression forms when a low-pressure area is accompanied by thunderstorms that produce a circular wind flow with maximum sustained winds below 63 km/hr. Continued …

23 Illegal Immigrants arrested in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province

A substantial operation led by high-ranking officials from the Thai Immigration Bureau has resulted in the arrest of 23 Myanmar nationals who had reportedly crossed into the Kingdom of Thailand illegally.

The operation was directed by Police Lt. Gen. Pakphoomphiphat Sajaphan, the Immigration commissioner. The investigative team from the Prachuap Khiri Khan Immigration Office, under the leadership of Police Lt. Col. Nattawat Kaewthip Net, collaborated with military officers from the Jong Ong Suek Special Forces, administrative officials, and law enforcement officers from the Thap Sakae Police Station. Continued …

50 satang reduction in diesel price just not worth it, says LTAT chief

The Energy Ministry should bring the price of diesel down further if it wants to stimulate the economy and tourism, the Land Transport Assn. of Thailand (LTAT) said.

LTAT chief Apichart Prairungruang said on Wednesday that the ministry’s decision to only reduce the price of diesel by 50 satang per liter will have no effect on the cost of transportation. He explained that the cost of transport rises or drops by 3% for every 1 baht change in diesel price. Continued …

A volunteer’s view of daily life at Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand in Phetchaburi

Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand operates an extensive animal sanctuary in Thayang, Phetchaburi. Its website (wfft.org) will give you some great bird’s eye views of the facilities that have been purpose-built to rehome animals that cannot be re-released to the wild.

The sanctuary also provides a home to animals being rehabilitated after illness or injury and those that have been rescued from inappropriate settings in captivity, such as zoos, logging camps, tourist venues and private residences not able to properly care for them. Continued …

Thai, Chinese Police Cooperate in Crackdown on Chinese Crooks

National police chief sent Thai immigration police to China to work with Chinese police in a crackdown on Chinese criminals using Thailand as their base for illegal activities.

Thai immigration police flew to China to seek cooperation and exchange of information with Chinese police. The one–week trip from May 5-11 is aimed to prevent Chinese criminals from fleeing to Thailand and using the kingdom as hideouts. Continued …

Covid-19 Guidelines Provided to Schools

Caretaker Prime Minister and Defense Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Public Health to lay down COVID-19 prevention guideline for schools.

Deputy government spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul disclosed that as the opening of new school term is imminent, the prime minister has instructed two ministries to work together in laying down guidelines for prevention of the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases, such as influenza. This is due to the increase of COVID-19 infected cases following the Songkran holidays, coupling with the country’s entering into the rainy season. Continued …

78 million baht found in accounts linked to suspected ‘cyanide killer’

Police have tracked down several bank accounts with a total of 78 million baht linked to suspected “cyanide killer” Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, the deputy national police chief said.

Gen. Surachat Hakparn said on Tuesday that there has been a steady flow of money transfers to the different bank accounts from at least 12 people. Hence, he said, police are further looking into these transfers to work out their relations with the suspect. Continued …

Murdered youth’s father goes ballistic at re-enactment

The father of a British boy battered to death in Thailand has furiously confronted the man who murdered his son, screaming at him: ‘Look me in the eye, you b***ard’.

Shaking with rage, Steven Graham stared through the window of a police truck as sex crimes convict Chaiwat Boongarin, 44, was taken back to the spot where he murdered Woramet Ben Taota, 16, and dumped his body on Saturday. Continued …

Wild elephant tramples woman to death in front of officials

In a devastating incident, a woman was trampled to death by a wild elephant in front of wildlife officials in Wang Chan District, Rayong. Even after firing two magazines of bullets, the authorities could not stop the charging animal, which was extremely fast and caught everyone off-guard.

The tragic event occurred at a palm plantation in the district, where 40-year-old Namthip was fatally assaulted by an elephant. Police Major Saisawat Shinawong, an on-duty official at Wang Chan police station, was immediately informed of the incident and coordinated with local authorities, medical teams, and rescue workers to rush to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the wild elephant task force already guarding Namthip’s body and watching over the surrounding area to prevent the animal from returning. Continued … 

Expressway from southern Bangkok to Suvarnabhumi being studied

A feasibility study on the elevated motorway linking southern Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi Airport is underway and, once completed, it will be proposed to Cabinet for approval after an environmental impact assessment (EIA) is conducted, officials at the Expressway Authority of Thailand said.

The feasibility study on the 19-kilometer motorway between Srinakarin and Suvarnabhumi International Airport will take six months, and public hearings on the project will be held while the EIA is being conducted, the officials added. Continued …

The political significance of the marigold bloom

Marigold flowers have been in great demand in the months leading up to the general election, as politicians have been racing to meet people across the country in an attempt to win their votes.

People in Thailand have always used marigold garlands for religious or ritual purposes, partly because its name in Thai “Dao Ruang” means prosperity and its yellow color is associated with Buddhism. Continued …

Reminder: Due to Sunday’s election, there will be no alcohol sales from 6pm Saturday until 6pm Sunday.

Circular economy could generate millions of job opportunities

The circular economy is a concept that aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability by reusing, recycling and repairing products.

It has been estimated that this approach could create millions of new jobs, especially in developing countries where most of the waste management and recycling activities take place. However, a new report by the International Labor Organization (ILO), the World Bank and Circle Economy reveals a lack of research on how the circular economy affects decent work and vulnerable populations in the global south. Continued …

Thailand targets high-spending Middle Eastern tourists for tourism growth

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is focusing on attracting high-spending visitors from the Middle East in the latter half of this year, with the goal of utilizing this market as a new tourism growth engine.

Apichai Chatchalermkit, TAT’s deputy governor for tourism products and business, has stated that since Thailand re-established full diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia in early 2021, the authority has been increasing efforts to bring in high-spending tourists from the Middle East. Chatchalermkit also mentioned that Middle Eastern consumers hold a positive image of the quality of health and wellness businesses in Thailand. Continued …

TAT pushes for bigger visa quota to meet surging demand of Chinese tourists

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will next week push for an increase in the visa quota for Chinese tourists to meet rising demand and recovery of the sector.

Chuwit Sirivejkul, TAT regional director of marketing for East Asia, said on Wednesday that TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn will meet with Foreign Ministry executives next week to discuss the issue. Continued …

Thailand touts traditional charms of 55 cities and towns off the tourist trail

Tourists are being encouraged to sample the unspoiled traditional charms of 55 towns around the country, in Thailand’s latest campaign showcasing its diversity.

Local traditions and cultural heritage are the big draw, said Tourism Authority of Thailand Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn as he unveiled the “Amazing Secondary Cities, Must Visit, Must Love” campaign on Wednesday. Continued …

Most Extreme Seafood Tour of Bangkok

Get ready for the ultimate extreme seafood tour of Bangkok. Explore Bangkok for some of the most incredible street seafood! Get ready for some of the best and most unique seafood food in the world! Video 

Gold demand surges amid jitters

Global demand for gold among investors is growing this year thanks to turmoil in the banking sector, geopolitical tensions and a challenging economic environment, leading more people to flock to the precious metal as a safe-haven asset, says the World Gold Council (WGC). Continued …

Australia told to shoot kangaroos before they starve

Australia’s kangaroos could die in “catastrophic” numbers if a population boom is left unchecked, ecologists have warned, while backing the industrial-scale culling of the marsupials. Continued …

Toyota projects 10% profit growth, five-fold increase in EV sales this year

Toyota Motor Corp. revealed on Wednesday that a 10% increase in operating profit is expected during this business year, as sales of pure electric vehicles (EV) are predicted to surge five-fold with a reduction in global supply chain disruption caused by the ongoing chip shortage. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

covid, hospitality, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-May 6

  • Khao Tao developer Veyla expands into wellness sector/
  • Prachuap Khiri Khan braces for rainy season to start in mid-May/
  • Two storms to hit Thailand affecting Election Day/
  • Cyanide killings the deadliest in Thai crime history/
  • Thai couple hands over bag with lost 100,000 baht to police in Ratchaburi/
  • Cobra spits venom into Disaster Prevention officer’s eyes/
  • Massage parlor in northern Thailand raided for underage sex trafficking/
  • China Biggest Global Jailer of Journalists; Thailand Restricts Taboo Subjects/
  • Tourism: 1,000-baht departure tax proposed/Thailand urged to focus on wellness/Chinese arrivals could soar in May/
  • Thailand Experience: Narathiwat, a dream destination blessed by nature/
  • International: WHO declares end to COVID global health emergency/Britain ready for first coronation since 1953/US banks on edge after rate hike/German recession fears rise as factory orders plummet/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

    Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Khao Tao developer Veyla expands into wellness sector

Luxury holiday home developer Ideas 1606 Co., known for its Veyla brand, is planning to expand the brand into the wellness sector and explore opportunities to target the foreign market in popular tourist destinations.

Fifteen years ago, Prapavadee Sophonpanich, founder and chief executive, acquired a 4.5-rai plot of land in Khao Tao, Prachuap Khiri Khan, with the intention of developing a small vacation home project targeting Thai businessmen. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan braces for rainy season to start in mid-May

Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is bracing for the rainy season to start in mid-May. The Thai Meteorological Department predicts that the rainy season in Thailand will start around the third week of May 2023, with one to two tropical storms possibly passing through the northeastern and northern regions in August and September.

Thailand’s rainy season typically occurs from May to October, with the highest rainfall usually in September and October. Continued …

Two storms to hit Thailand affecting Election Day

Rangsit University’s Climate Change and Disaster Center expects two storms are set to hit Thailand next week, with potential impacts on Election Day, May 14.

The center’s director, Seri Suparatit, revealed yesterday that two storms – one originating in the Indian Ocean and the other in the South China Sea – are moving toward Thailand. Cyclone Mocha is currently producing heavy rainfall in the Bay of Bengal, while another tropical depression is beginning in the South China Sea near the Philippines. Continued …

Cyanide killings the deadliest in Thai crime history

The case of suspected serial killer Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, 36, could be considered the deadliest in Thailand’s crime history, as the alleged crimes were committed over four years without raising any suspicion in the relatives of the victims.

Sararat allegedly poisoned her victims, most of whom she knew personally, mixing the deadly chemical cyanide on items of consumption, such as food, beverages and medicines, posing difficulties for police in their investigation. Continued …

Thai couple hand over bag with lost 100,000 baht to police in Ratchaburi

An honest Thai couple discovered a bag with 100,000 baht inside in front of a shopping mall in the central province of Ratchaburi and notified the police so they can search for its owner.

Eighteen-year-old Kittisak “Zen” Thaweechokhirun, and his 18-year-old girlfriend, Potchathawat “Mali” Sabumuang, last night reported the cash-filled bag they found at a shopping mall to officers at Meaung Ratchaburi Police Station. Continued …

Cobra spits venom into Disaster Prevention officer’s eyes

A Siamese spitting cobra spat venom into the eyes of a Disaster Prevention officer in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeast Thailand yesterday. Rescue officers responded quickly and managed to save his life and eyesight.

At 7.40pm, the Hook 31 Rescue Unit was informed that someone was spat at by a cobra at Ban Tanot Village, Moo 2, Ban Pho subdistrict, Mueang district. Continued …

Massage parlor in northern Thailand raided for underage sex trafficking

Police swooped on a massage parlor in the northern province of Tak after a tip-off on underage sex trafficking. The owner of the parlor was arrested and two teenage Burmese girls were rescued.

The Anti-Trafficking In Persons Division Police (ATPD) received a tip-off that a Thai woman, 40-year-old Suphaporn Makaew, was operating an underage sex-trafficking racket behind her massage business. To verify the information, an undercover police officer posed as a customer as he visited the massage parlor, located on the Mae Sot-Umphang Road in the Mae Sot district of Tak. Continued …

China Biggest Global Jailer of Journalists; Thailand Restricts Taboo Subjects

China was the biggest global jailer of journalists last year, with 101 behind bars, according to Reporters without Boarders (RSF).

Starting with Xi Jinping, who secured a historic third term as China’s leader, ensuring a concentration of power never seen since Mao Zedong, so as to pursue the crusade against journalism he launched 10 years ago. Continued …

1,000-baht departure tax proposed

Thai outbound travelers and foreign permanent residents in Thailand have been asked for their opinion on a government departure tax of 1,000 baht in an attempt to prevent locals from spending excessively abroad, with the Revenue Department announcing online public hearings this week.

The department posted the public hearing questionnaire on its website https://www.rd.go.th/64115.html, saying it wants to listen to public opinion about an emergency decree on a departure levy, based on a law passed in 1983, in order to assess its impact. Continued …

Thailand urged to focus on wellness

Thailand’s health economy boasts very high growth potential, as the world is increasingly aware of the importance of health and self-care, according to a Commerce Ministry study.

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, said the office studied the opportunities for Thailand’s wellness economy and found growth potential given the world’s greater focus on health and self-care. Continued …

Chinese arrivals could soar in May

Chinese airlines are expected to increase the number of flights to Thailand to 430 per week starting on June 1, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).

CAAT Director Suthipong Kongpool said his office recently met with Chinese airlines to discuss their request for more flights for the summer schedule and it was initially agreed that the number would rise to 430 a week from the 100 permitted at present. Continued …

Narathiwat, a dream destination blessed by nature

Narathiwat is the easternmost of the four provinces in Thailand’s deep south, bordered to the east by the Gulf of Thailand and to the south by Malaysia. The coastal province, which evolved from fishing communities along the mouth of the Pak Bara River, is now known for its cross-cultural beauty, abundant nature, and local delicacies.

A visit ideally begins with Wat Chon Thara Singhe, a Buddhist temple in Tak Bai that serves as a demarcation between Thailand and Malaysia. The historic temple takes you back to 1909, when the Kingdom of Siam returned four northern Malaysian provinces to the United Kingdom. Continued …

WHO declares end to COVID global health emergency

The World Health Organization said Friday that COVID-19 no longer qualifies as a global emergency, marking a symbolic end to the devastating coronavirus pandemic that triggered once-unthinkable lockdowns, upended economies worldwide and killed at least 7 million people worldwide. Continued … 

Britain ready for first coronation since 1953

Charles III will be crowned king today in a solemn Christian ceremony steeped in 1,000 years of history and tradition, but adapted to reflect 21st-century Britain. Continued …

US banks on edge after rate hike

Economists warn that two more U.S. banks are on the verge of collapse after the Federal Reserve lifted its key interest rates by 0.25% this week, prompting stock prices of American lenders to drop sharply after the hike. Continued …

German recession fears rise as factory orders plummet

Industrial orders at German factories saw their biggest fall in March since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic in 2020, data showed Friday, the latest sign that Europe’s biggest economy is facing a steep downturn. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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

Saturday’s news-April 29

  • Holidays coming up, government offices closed/
  • Power bills set to fall in September/
  • Summer storms to sweep across Thailand to Monday/
  • Proposal for special budget to ease household power charges denied/
  • ‘Cyanide killer’: Traces of lethal poison found in suspect’s car/
  • Use of Solar Panels on the Roof this year nearly equals 2022 total/
  • SCG’s solar unit predicts sales of Bt1 billion/
  • SPI and EGAT to develop charging stations, aim at driving Thailand’s EV ecosystem/
  • Tourism: Tourism likely to disappoint during next week’s holiday/Massive 4-Meter-Long King Cobra Seeks Refuge from Heat at Resort/CPN, Klook to offer Bangkok-Pattaya tourist bus service/
  • Thailand Experience: Surin elephant festival May 2-4/
  • International: Consumers hold recession fears at bay
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

    Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Holidays coming up, government offices closed

Immigration and many government offices will be closed next week: Monday, May 1, is Labor Day; Thursday, May 4, is Coronation Day; and Friday, May 5, is an additional holiday.

Power bills set to fall in September

Electricity bills are likely to decline during the last four months of this year, with the power tariff expected to reach 4.3 or 4.4 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit), according to the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO). Continued …

Summer storms to sweep across Thailand to Monday

Summer storms will sweep across the whole country through Monday, according to the Thai Meteorological Department. Many areas will see strong wind, hail and lightning, it added.

The storms are being stirred by a high-pressure front from China, which will spread over upper Thailand and bring stronger southerly and southeasterly winds laden with moisture from the Gulf of Thailand and South China Sea, the TMD said. Continued …

Proposal for special budget to ease household power charges denied

The Election Commission (EC) has rejected the government’s proposal to use about 11 billion baht of a special budget to ease household electricity charges, on the grounds that the proposal was not approved by the Cabinet.

The proposal was submitted to the EC on Tuesday by the Office of the Secretary-General of the cabinet, on behalf of the Ministry of Energy. The EC discovered, however, that the Office of the Secretary-General had failed to mention the cabinet’s approval for the use of the special budget. Continued …

‘Cyanide killer’: Traces of lethal poison found in suspect’s car

Traces of cyanide have been found inside a car belonging to the 36-year-old woman police suspect murdered 18 people with the lethal poison to avoid repaying debts she owed them, a forensics expert said on Friday.

More than 20 samples were collected from the car of suspected murderer Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn. Continued …

Use of Solar Panels on the Roof this year nearly equals 2022 total

According to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) office, between January and March 21, 2023, 1,020 people applied to participate in the public solar project, representing a total capacity of 5,492.38 kilowatts. The figure was almost equal to the total number of 1,287 applications in 2022, representing a total capacity of 7,195 kilowatts.

Phuwadon Suntornwipart, president of the Thai Photovoltaic Industries Assn. (TPVA), said the trend of rooftop solar panels “has increased sharply”. The market is also expected to be two to three times larger in 2023 than last year. Continued …

SCG’s solar unit predicts sales of Bt1 billion

Construction materials producer SCG Cement-Building Materials aims to achieve sales of more than 1 billion baht in solar roof solutions this year, double the tally recorded last year, based on rapidly increasing demand.

Wachirachai Koonamwattana, head of smart system solution business at the company, said alternative energy sources are increasingly popular, driving the growth of the solar rooftop market. Continued …

SPI and EGAT to develop charging stations, aim at driving Thailand’s EV ecosystem

Saha Group, through Saha Pathana Inter-Holding, signed an agreement with EGAT to jointly develop EV charging stations in Saha Group’s affiliated areas, further promoting the electric vehicle ecosystem in Thailand.

Vichai Kulsomphob, president and CEO of Saha Pathana Inter-Holding Plc. (SPI), said the cooperation aim of promoting sustainable electric vehicle development across all Saha Group’s properties, including the development and installation of EV charging stations (EleX by EGAT). Continued …

Tourism likely to disappoint during next week’s holiday

With a long holiday slated for next week, Pattaya and Rayong tourism operators do not expect an influx of domestic tourists, as people’s purchasing power has dried up since the Songkran festival.

Sanpech Supabowornsthian, president of the Thai Hotels Assn.’s eastern chapter, forecast the occupancy rate in Pattaya would hover around 65%-70% during the upcoming holidays, comprising Labor Day on May 1 and Coronation Day on May 4. Continued …

Massive 4-Meter-Long King Cobra Seeks Refuge from Heat at Resort

A large king cobra measuring 4.2 meters in length and weighing 7.6 kilograms was found hiding in a resort in Dan Chang District, Suphanburi Province. A local resident discovered the snake while inspecting the resort’s premises and alerted the Suphanburi Rescue Foundation for assistance. The king cobra was believed to have been living in the nearby forest and ventured into the resort area due to the dry season’s high temperatures and difficulty in finding food. (Siam Rath)

CPN, Klook to offer Bangkok-Pattaya tourist bus service

Central Pattana plc. is joining hands with KLOOK, a leading travel e-commerce platform, to continue boosting tourism by launching the “City Bus Transfer” to provide a shuttle bus service from Bangkok to Pattaya to facilitate and fulfill the needs of foreign tourists. Continued …

 

Surin elephant festival May 2-4

Lots of color, smiles, elaborate costumes, fanfare and, of course, a herd of elephants will enchant visitors to Surin in northeast Thailand, as the country’s oldest mahout community celebrates the Buad Nak Chang Festival in early May.

Also known as the Elephant Ordination Festival, this rare celebration is a mass monk ordination procession that takes place on elephant back. Continued …

Consumers hold recession fears at bay

Heightened worries about the strength of consumers and the global economy have been put on hold – at least for now – after some of the world’s best-known companies delivered a slew of better-than expected numbers. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • 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 one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting