Category Archives: thai wildlife

bangkok, climate change, hua hin, pattaya, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-Aug 14

  • Queen mother ceremony at Wat Huay Mongkol/
  • Two Hua Hin golf courses named among Asia’s 20 best/
  • Southwest monsoon to bring heavy rain nationwide/
  • How much does a Retirement Home cost in Thailand?/
  • Developer Sansiri sees net profit surge 162% in the first half/
  • Credit-card operators say raising interest ceiling to 18% only way to survive/
  • Excise Dept mulls reclassifying liquor and beer/
  • Wild elephant captured after 22 days of disruption/
  • Tak hospital in red as Myanmar migrant patient numbers soar/
  • Body of second victim of boat capsize in Phetchaburi recovered/
  • Thailand election: How Thailand’s long wait compares with the world record for forming a new govt/Pita Takes Pheu Thai To Task For About-Face On ‘Uncles’ Camps’/Light at the end of the tunnel?/
  • Economy: Economic danger signals emerging as politicians wrangle over election/Thailand: A Rising Economic Powerhouse in Southeast Asia/Thailand’s Ambitious Strides Toward Clean Energy/FamilyMart brand to be replaced by Tops Daily stores/
  • Tourism: Travel industry girds for weak low season amid cost and weather challenges/Chinese tourists to Thailand may drop as tour group restrictions lift/Thailand gears up to be the top destination for visitors from Europe, America, the Middle East/Opinion: Bangkok, a Most Visited City on Earth, and The Other Bangkok/Pattaya police nab defiant Arab road racers/
  • Thailand Experience: Rising Sea Levels Threaten 11 Million People in Bangkok/The best snacks to get at Thai 7-Eleven/Forget cereal, I’ll take these spicy breakfast noodles every time/
  • International: Maui wildfires deadliest in a century after death toll hits 89/China issues new guidelines to attract foreign investment/Chinese Uninterested in the Climate Change Narrative Despite Extreme Weather/Miss Universe cuts ties with Indonesia chapter after harassment allegations/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Queen mother ceremony at Wat Huay Mongkol

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother was honored yesterday on her 91st birthday In an annual robe wrapping ceremony at Wat Huay Mongkol Temple, more than a thousand spectators paid their respects to the theme “Enhancing Your Heart with Faith.”

Under a hot August sky at the Wat Huay Mongkol Temple, located in the Thap Tai subdistrict of Hua Hin, hundreds of the attendees grabbed ahold and walked the 399-meter-long robe around the statue of the legendary Thai monk, Luang Pu Thuat.

Black Mountain

Two Hua Hin golf courses named among Asia’s 20 best

The diverse topography of Asia, the largest and most populous continent in the world, has been a golf architect’s delight for ages. Home to every imaginable terrain on the face of earth, designers have reveled and been challenged while giving shape to vast tracts of land, creating masterpieces that test golfers’ skill and temperament to the hilt.

Asia isn’t just about designer layouts and golf courses, though. Links-style courses and other designs, too, have played a part in highlighting the continent as a golfing juggernaut. Continued …

Southwest monsoon to bring heavy rain nationwide

The Southwest monsoon is intensifying, covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, and causing heavy rainfall across 60%-80% of Thailand, according to the Meteorological Department.

People in affected areas are advised to be cautious of heavy to very heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which could lead to sudden flooding and forest runoff, especially in hilly and low-lying areas. Continued …

How much does a Retirement Home cost in Thailand?

Aging is an inevitable part of our life cycle. And as you reach your golden years, planning for retirement becomes increasingly important. If you have set your sights on spending your retirement in Thailand, understanding the cost of a retirement home should be a priority.

The beauty of Thailand extends beyond gorgeous landscapes and rich culture; it also offers a range of high-quality elderly care options. Below, we’ve broken down the various costs associated with your potential future home – retirement Continued …

Developer Sansiri sees net profit surge 162% in the first half

Net profit at Sansiri Plc. surged 162% year-on-year to 3.2 billion baht in the first half on strong sales of high-end houses and furnished condos, the company’s CFO, Wichan Viriyaphusit, said. Sansiri operates several projects in Hua Hin.

Second quarter net profit was 1.62 billion baht, up 77% from the year-ago period. The profit margin for the six-month period was 17.3% compared to 9.3% in the first six months of last year. Continued …

Credit-card operators say raising interest ceiling to 18% only way to survive

Thailand’s Credit Card Club will ask the central bank to allow credit-card operators to bring the interest rate back up to 18% soon, the club’s chairman said.

Atis Ruchirawat, the club’s chairman and managing director at General Card Service Co., said on Sunday that the 16% interest rate ceiling may make it difficult for operators to cover their expenses due to the Bank of Thailand’s rising policy rates. Continued …

Excise Dept mulls reclassifying liquor and beer

The Excise Department is currently in discussions with relevant government and private sector agencies on proposals to adjust the structure of alcohol and beer taxes to align with the current situation and to be consistent with the development of alcoholic beverage products.

Currently, alcoholic beverages are subject to various tax rates, such as non-alcoholic beer with 0% alcohol content, according to Ekniti Nitithanprapas, director general of the Excise Department. Continued …

Wild elephant captured after 22 days of disruption

Perhaps only in Thailand can an elephant be avoiding a court order for disturbing the peace. After 22 days on the lam, a wild elephant has been successfully captured in the Nop Phi Tham district of the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

The “elephant arrest” was made to comply with a court order issued to relocate it due to the animal’s continuous community disruption. Continued …

Tak hospital in red as Myanmar migrant patient numbers soar

The Ministry of Public Health has sent 20 million baht to Umphang Hospital in Tak province to help it cover the increased costs of treating the rising number of migrants fleeing the conflict in neighboring Myanmar. Continued …

Body of second victim of boat capsize in Phetchaburi recovered

The search for a second passenger, missing after a tour boat was struck by a waterspout and capsized, ended last evening when his body was recovered from the water near a pier, behind Pak Lad Temple in Bang Tabun Bay in Ban Laem district of Phetchaburi province.

The remains, identified as those of “Kritanat”, a resident of Ban Laem district, were taken to King Mongkut Memorial Hospital for autopsy. The other victim has been identified as “Chanin”, a Bangkok resident. Continued …

How Thailand’s long wait compares with the world record for forming a new govt

Could Thailand break world record time for forming new govt? Three months have passed since the May 14 general election, and Thailand’s next government is still nowhere in sight.

Waiting much longer could very well earn Thailand a place among countries that have suffered the biggest delays in forming governments after elections. Continued …

Pita Takes Pheu Thai To Task For About-Face On ‘Uncles’ Camps’

Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat yesterday took the Pheu Thai to task for evidently turning an about-face only to bring “the uncles’ camps” into their coalition.

Without naming names, Pita told Move Forward supporters at a by-election campaign rally in Rayong that the Pheu Thai as core of the current coalition has gone back on their word by having the Palang Pracharath led by Prawit “Uncle Pom” Wongsuwan and the Ruam Thai Sang Chart under de facto boss/caretaker prime minister Prayut “Uncle Tu” Chan-o-cha jump onto the bandwagon. Continued … 

Light at the end of the tunnel?

Since the general election on May 14, Thailand has gone three months without a new government to lead the economy. Foreign investors, businesses and tourists are eager to see a favorable outcome following several unexpected twists and turns.

Some countries have issued a travel advisory for Thailand because of occasional unrest in Bangkok. Australia warned its citizens about an unpredictable security environment, given previous anti-government protests in Bangkok, while Canada highlighted demonstration sites that people should avoid. Continued …

Economic danger signals emerging as politicians wrangle over election

As Thailand’s politicians wrangle over who will take power amid a well-conceived conservative plot to use the unelected Senate to control the formation of the next government, the country’s economy is manifesting danger signals with a prolonged export slump and a rising problem with private sector debt that may become explosive.

These have combined with political instability concerns to reduce consumer confidence for the first time in 14 months. Continued …

Thailand: A Rising Economic Powerhouse in Southeast Asia

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country with a population of over 70 million people. It is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary government. The capital city is Bangkok.

Thailand has a long history of trade and commerce. It was a major trading hub in the region for centuries. In recent years, Thailand has become a major player in the global economy. It is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the World Trade Organization (WTO). Continued …

Thailand’s Ambitious Strides Toward Clean Energy

Thailand is gaining recognition for its efforts in clean energy. With increasing demand driven by government initiatives, environmental awareness, and technological advancements, the country’s energy market is undergoing a transformation.

The Thai government has set a goal to increase the share of renewable energy in total energy consumption to 30% by 2036. This commitment has led to investments in various clean energy projects, such as solar and wind farms, bioenergy, and hydropower plants. Continued …

FamilyMart brand to be replaced by Tops Daily stores

Japanese convenience store brand FamilyMart is set to exit Thailand, with all stores set to be rebranded by the end of this year.

Three years ago, Central Retail Corp. bought out FamilyMart’s share in their joint venture in the market, at the time describing it as a precursor to network expansion as the master franchise holder there. Back then, there were 1,000 FamilyMart stores trading in Thailand. Now there are reportedly only 200 left, which will be converted to Central’s Tops Daily branding by the end of this year. Continued …

Travel industry girds for weak low season amid cost and weather challenges

The travel industry is bracing itself for an exceptionally weak low season, with predictions of stagnant demand, escalating operational costs at popular destinations, and the impacts of tropical storms.

The president of the Thai Travel Agents Assn., Charoen Wangananont, highlighted that the season’s sale rate for outbound packages significantly lags behind the comparison period recorded before the pandemic. He cited hesitancy and prudence shown by both individuals and executives, reducing their expenditure on travel. Continued …

Chinese tourists to Thailand may drop as tour group restrictions lift

In the wake of China’s announcement to allow tour groups to visit Japan and several other nations for the first time since 2020, Thailand’s tourism industry braces itself for a sharp fall in Chinese tourists. This drop is, in part, caused by ongoing visa application challenges, in spite of the government’s efforts to simplify the process.

This recent development comes as China finally moves to lift previously imposed Covid-19 travel restrictions on tour groups. Aside from Japan, other countries, including the U.S., South Korea, and Australia, can accept Chinese tour groups. In addition, China has expressed the desire for Japan to consider a visa waiver for Chinese citizens. Continued …

Thailand gears up to be the top destination for visitors from Europe, America, the Middle East

Thailand is gearing up to be the top destination for our friends in Europe, America, and the Middle East! Here’s why:

  • European visitors typically stay 19.4 days, spending around 71,718 baht.
  • Middle Eastern guests enjoy 16.17 days and spend an impressive 99,172 baht.
  • Americans unwind for 15.26 days, with a spend of 76,297 baht. – Pattaya Mail

Bangkok, a Most Visited City on Earth, and The Other Bangkok

Many Thais expressed pride when a travel website, Travelness.com, recently reported that Bangkok was the most visited city on earth in the first half of 2023 – 22.78 million foreign visitors compared to 19.1 of Paris and London’s 19.09 (Dubai clocked in the fourth place at 15.93 followed by Singapore at 14.67).

We should identify and reinforce Bangkok’s charms and strengths in order to further cement Bangkok as one of the most popular cities on the planet. Truth be told, Bangkok is a different city if you are working and living in the city as a low-paid working class, lower middle class or migrant laborer from neighboring countries. Continued …

Pattaya police nab defiant Arab road racers

Notorious Arab motorbike riders were forced to cancel their road-racing plans after some 200 policemen and Interior Ministry officials were deployed to keep law and order on Pattaya roads late on Saturday night.

Officers from Pattaya Police Station and officials from Chonburi provincial administration were deployed to check the roads and sois where local residents have complained about road racing and the blocking of traffic by Arab youngsters, mostly tourists from Kuwait. Continued …

Rising Sea Levels Threaten 11 Million People in Bangkok

Rising sea levels are a major concern not only for rural coastal communities but even for some of the world’s major cities surrounded by bodies of water. In the context of climate change, melting glaciers due to global warming is releasing frozen water back into the oceans at unprecedented rates never seen before in modern history.

Due to the threat, inhabitants of these “at risk areas” are forced to flee from the rising tides. One such place facing this threat is Thailand’s Bangkok metropolitan area, which has been projected by climate experts to further sink in the coming decades. Situated in Southeast Asia and near the Gulf of Thailand, Bangkok, and its suburbs are dealing with coastal flooding as a result of the global sea level rise. Continued …

The best snacks to get at Thai 7-Eleven

Ever prowled around a 7-Eleven searching for the perfect midnight snack? We know that feeling. Here are some of the best 7-Eleven Thai exclusive snacks, based on our most popular picks.

Walking through the white metal shelves, hoping you don’t spend too much time picking a snack, sneaking furtive glances at the cashier…we’ve been through it. There’s a 7-eleven seemingly on every corner in Thailand, so people can be found always searching the aisles, night or day. And when you’re spoiled for choice, there’s got to be a guiding light. Continued …

Khanom chin nam ya

Forget cereal, I’ll take these spicy breakfast noodles every time

Pity the Anglo-Saxon world for its lo-fi breakfast choices. Toast, cereal, even bacon and eggs… these carry little flavor, they’re stodge designed to fill a gap until lunch rolls around and the real eating begins. Not so in much of the rest of the world, including Thailand.

Picture this to kick-start your day: thin rice noodles known as khanom chin, curled into neat little bundles, topped with a ladle-full of nam ya, a fiendishly spicy curry of minced fish, with pickled mustard greens, boiled eggs, raw green beans and fresh herbs to stir through. Now that is a breakfast. Continued …

Maui wildfires deadliest in a century after death toll hits 89

The death toll from the Maui wildfires is now at 89, officials said on Saturday, making it the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. Gov. Josh Green warned at a news conference on Saturday afternoon that the death toll would continue to rise as more bodies were discovered. Continued …

China issues new guidelines to attract foreign investment

China has issued 24 new guidelines to attract more global capital and further optimize the country’s business environment for multinational corporations. The guidelines cover topics such as encouraging foreign investors to undertake major scientific research projects and ensuring equal treatment of foreign and domestic companies. Continued …

Chinese Uninterested in the Climate Change Narrative Despite Extreme Weather

This summer’s record heat and epic floods in China failed to spark local public debate about how the world’s top carbon polluter should mitigate climate change, leaving environmentalists furious at a wasted opportunity. Continued …

Miss Universe cuts ties with Indonesia chapter after harassment allegations

The Miss Universe Organization has cut ties with its Indonesia franchise, it announced days after allegations of sexual harassment, and will cancel an upcoming Malaysia edition. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
covid, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-Aug 12

  • Today is World Elephant Day/
  • Tackling critical threats facing Asian elephants/
  • Happy Mothers Day and Happy Birthday to The Queen Mother/
  • Parks set for holiday surge as fees waived/
  • Perseid meteor shower promises interstellar treat on Mother’s Day/
  • Pheu Thai says it must include cou-linked parties in coalition/
  • Villagers Discover 5-Meter King Cobra Near Seaside Home/\
  • 8 new coronavirus variant infections found in Thailand, no cause for alarm/
  • Tourism: Russians fleeing Putin’s war find a home in Phuket/
  • Thailand Experience: Best things to do and where to stay in Koh Samui/10 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Charming Region In Thailand/
  • International: Wear A Rainbow Swatch Watch In Malaysia, Face 3 Years In Jail/Death toll in Maui fire disaster rises to 67, 1,000 missing/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Today is World Elephant Day

On this World Elephant Day, the World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) is launching the Asian Elephant Alliance (AEA) to secure a future in which loss and fragmentation of elephant habitats are reduced, people and elephants live side by side in a sustainable way, and wild elephant populations are stable.

World Elephant Day was founded in Thailand just over a decade ago to raise the profile of these pachyderms globally, and to garner support to rally around the issues they face. With a philosophy of collective effort at its core, World Elephant Day is meant to galvanize a powerful partnership of governments, the private sector, civil society and citizens to support conservation efforts for wild elephants. Continued …

 Tackling critical threats facing Asian elephants

Asian elephants are the largest land mammal next to their African cousins, and an important keystone species to maintaining healthy ecosystems and safeguarding other species with whom they share habitat.

Sadly, Asian elephants are globally endangered and particularly threatened in Southeast Asia and southern China, where only about 8,000-11,000 wild elephants share space in some of the most densely populated countries. Continued … 

Happy Mothers Day and Happy Birthday to The Queen Mother

In Thailand, Aug. 12 is a day of double celebration, intertwining the significance of motherhood and royal admiration.

On this day, Thai Mother’s Day coincides with the 91st birthday of the Queen Mother, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, creating a heartfelt occasion that will paint the country in shades of blue. Continued …

Parks set for holiday surge as fees waived

Khao Laem National Park in Sangkhla Buri district is gearing up for an influx of tourists over the three-day holiday weekend after entry fees to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries across the country were waived to celebrate Mother’s Day and the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother today.

Abhisit Sombatmat, head of the 1,500-square-kilometer national park, said yesterday that more than 30 park officials were ready to ensure convenience and safety for visitors until Monday. Continued … 

Perseid meteor shower promises interstellar treat on Mother’s Day

The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand has invited the public to view the Perseid meteor shower at Princess Sirindhorn AstroPark in Chiang Mai’s Mae Rin district from 11pm on Saturday to 3am on Sunday.

The Perseids are a prolific meteor shower associated with the Swift-Tuttle comet. The meteors are called “Perseids” because they appear from the general direction of the constellation Perseus and in more modern times have a radiant bordering on Cassiopeia and Camelopardalis. Continued …

Pheu Thai says it must include coup linked parties in coalition

Pheu Thai deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai said on Friday that the party would eventually have to include two political parties linked to former junta leaders in its coalition government in the making.

Asked if the Pheu Thai-led government would need the Palang Pracharath and United Thai Nation parties to ensure stability, Phumtham said: “The political math is clear. It’s a must, and the game is forcing us to take this path.” Continued …

Villagers Discover 5-Meter King Cobra Near Seaside Home

In a rare coastal encounter, villagers stumbled upon a colossal 5-meter long king cobra entangled near their residence.

The snake, weighing around 47 kilograms, had sought refuge beneath a palm tree. Rescuers from the Mirakel Wildlife Rescue Center in Krabi swiftly intervened upon receiving reports from residents of Tambon Talinchan. Continued …

8 new coronavirus variant infections found in Thailand, no cause for alarm

Eight cases of infection by the new coronavirus Omicron EG.5.1 variant, codenamed Aris, have been detected in Thailand. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently classified the variant as being “of interest”, which does not seem to pose more of a threat to the public than the other variants.

Dr. Wasun Chantratita, chief of the Center for Medical Genomics at the Faculty of Medicines, Mahidol University, said, however, that the eight cases of Aris were detected in the past three months and the variant is capable of spreading about 1% faster than XBB.1.66, the current dominant variant. Continued …

Russians fleeing Putin’s war find a home in Phuket

In the humid evenings on the Thai island of Phuket, Aleksei* often sits alone on his balcony, and wonders if the past 18 months have been a strange dream. Last year, he was living with his mother and siblings in Moscow, and working in an IT job in one of the city’s skyscrapers. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, changed everything.

“At that moment, I thought: ‘OK what opportunities do I have here in Russia?’ Go to war, which I don’t want, of course, because Ukrainians are our brothers,” he says. The alternative, to protest, was hopeless. “It is impossible to fight against the government in Russia,” he says. Continued …

Best things to do and where to stay in Koh Samui

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is the second-largest island in Thailand, known for its picturesque beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. Koh Samui offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and modern amenities, making it a popular tourist destination.

The island is renowned for its palm-fringed white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets. Some of the most famous beaches on Koh Samui include Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Bophut Beach. These beaches offer a wide range of water sports activities, such assnorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding and jet-skiing. Continued …

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Charming Region In Thailand

Sichon is a secret gem nestled along Thailand’s untouched coastline. This idyllic coastal town offers a beautiful blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a peaceful ambiance, making it a captivating destination for any visitor seeking an authentic Thai experience.

With its pristine beaches framed by swinging palm trees, dense tropical forests, and quiet fishing villages, Sichon delivers a scenic escape from the bustling tourist hotspots. People rejoice in the warm hospitality of the locals, savor mouthwatering seafood delicacies, explore ancient temples, and immerse themselves in the allure of this fascinating coastal haven. Continued …

Wear A Rainbow Swatch Watch In Malaysia, Face 3 Years In Jail

Wearing a rainbow-themed Swatch watch in Malaysia could now land you three years in jail, after the government banned what it described as the brand’s “LGBTQ related” products — claiming they are “harmful to morality.” Continued …

Death toll in Maui fire disaster rises to 67, 1,000 missing

The death toll from the Maui wildfire climbed to 67 Friday as Maui fire crews battled blazes still scorching parts of the island and rescue workers searched for about 1,000 people reported missing as questions began to swirl about Hawaii’s emergency warning system. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

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

Wednesday’s news-Aug 9

  • Reader Feedback: More on the delayed Hua Hin Airport improvements/
  • Understanding property ownership in Prachuap Khiri Khan/
  • Hua Hin’s Cape Nidhra named by Tripadvisor/
  • Centara Grand named strongest brand in Thailand/
  • Behind the power tariff decision/
  • Buckle up! New law makes taxis ensure passenger wear safety belt/
  • Are you qualified to get the new 4-year SMART Visa in Thailand?/
  • What happens next in Thailand murder and dismemberment case?/
  • Drunken monkeys attack man, push him off a cliff in Ranong/
  • Analysis: Like It Or Not, Coup-linked General Most Likely To Become PM/
  • Economy: Thailand’s EV Industry Attracts Chinese Automakers/Bayer Thai taps solar energy for its row crops seed production site in Phitsanulok/
  • Tourism: What is sports tourism and why is it a key driver for PKK’s tourism sector?/Thai tourism industry anticipates growth under potential Pheu Thai government/Exat to hold public hearings on highway connecting Samui to mainland/World Dragon Boat Championship Officially Kicks off in Rayong/German father drowns, son survives off Phuket’s Karon Beach/Klook Ends Sale of Certain Cruel Wildlife Attractions/
  • Thailand Experience: The 10 Best Places to Retire in Asia; Hua Hin 10th/Ways to Maximize Your Thailand Travel Experience in 2023/Annual water buffalo race kick-starts rice cultivation season/Get ready to feast on meatballs in Buri Ram this weekend/
  • International: Italian dairy owner crushed to death by cheese wheels/Bear loose on Iraqi passenger flight at Dubai Airport/Scientists: No quick fix for Antarctic sea ice loss/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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More on the delayed Hua Hin Airport improvements

Airport delay just normal in Thailand

“Criticism would not change anything because, as is well known, the clocks tick differently in Thailand than in Europe. It is also known that announcements are made long before the actual implementation. But maybe a competent person who has influence on flight connections is reading this. My suggestion would be to create a flight connection between Bangkok, Hua Hin, Phuket and/or Koh Samui. Udon Thani makes little sense to me. Greetings for a long waiting Flight Passenger.” – Willy

Disappointed in airport management

“I am so disappointed in Hua Hin Airport HHQ. Phoenix Aviation was given the contract almost 3 years ago to upgrade the airport terminals and add routes. Air Asia added flights to Udon about 6 months ago and then never opened the route (I got my money back.) Phoenix has fallen down.

“The “authorities” are saying that additional runway expansion and security is needed. They just completed the runway expansion project 6 months ago. A320’s have been landing at HHQ for years! But 30,000 flights per year? 555?

“Now they are saying the roadway bridge tunnel must be lengthened and a train tunnel? Sounds like a 20-year plan. Meanwhile, HHQ has 4 flights a week to CNX. Very disappointing. Mayor Newey, are you listening?” – Scpchris

Is no one worried about airplane noise?

“Where is the concern for homes and people under the flight path? Why are jets not landing and taking off over the water? Single and twin prop planes are no problem but jets are noisy and disruptive.” – MSA

Understanding property ownership in Prachuap Khiri Khan

Contrary to some misconceptions, Thailand allows anyone, regardless of nationality, to own property – be that structures, buildings, and houses.

However, when it comes to land, it is advisable and safer for foreigners to enter into a legally registered lease in their name, granting them the rights to the land during the lease term. Continued …

Hua Hin’s Cape Nidhra named by Tripadvisor

Hua Hin’s Cape Nidhra Hotel has earned the “Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best 2023” award, the hotel’s fourth consecutive win.

The hotel’s staff, in particular, was honored for consistently offerung the ultimate vacation experience for guests, according to Tripadvisor.

Centara Grand named strongest brand in Thailand

Centara Hotels & Resorts announced that its flagship brand, Centara Grand, has been recognized as the strongest brand in Thailand by Brand Finance’s Thailand 50 2023 report. This ranking highlights Centara Grand’s performance in terms of brand equity, trust, and value over the past year.

Brand Finance, a leading global brand valuation and strategy consultancy, evaluates thousands of renowned brands across various sectors and countries annually, with its Thailand 50 2023 report showcasing the top 50 most valuable and strongest brands in the country. Continued …

Behind the power tariff decision

A lower power tariff scheduled to take effect from Sept. 1 not only means cheaper electricity bills for households and businesses during the last four months of this year, but also helps the debt-ridden Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) with its plan to settle its debt.

The new power tariff, which is largely based on gas prices, is why EGAT is involved in determining the rates. Continued … 

Buckle up! New law makes taxis ensure passenger wear safety belt

An announcement requiring taxi drivers to warn their passengers to wear their safety belts has been issued and will become effective in November. The announcement was published in the Royal Gazette Monday.

The warning was declared by the National Police office, which aims to establish a safety practice for taxi drivers in notifying and ensuring that passengers obey safety laws and wear their seat belts. Continued …

Are you qualified to get the new 4-year SMART Visa in Thailand?

For global experts and investors, the SMART Visa is a big win. It allows you to stay in Thailand for four years. And guess what? You only need to check in once a year, bidding goodbye to the old 90-day reporting rule.

With the buzz surrounding this SMART Visa, you’re probably bubbling with questions. Who can apply for it? What are the steps involved in getting one? Don’t worry. We’re here to explain everything. We’ll answer all your questions and guide you through the entire process, making it as easy as, well, it should be. Continued … 

What happens next in Thailand murder and dismemberment case?

Spanish chef Daniel Sancho, the son of actor Rodolfo Sancho, who has confessed to the murder and dismemberment of Colombian plastic surgeon Edwin Arrieta on the Thai island of Koh Pha-ngan, was remanded in custody Monday by order of the Koh Samui Provincial Court.

His possible cooperation in the investigation, the sentence that may be handed down if he is found guilty and the 1987 agreement signed between Madrid and Bangkok regarding “cooperation in the carrying out of criminal sentences” will decide the outcome of a complex and lengthy process Sancho’s defense hopes will conclude with his transfer to Spain to serve any possible sentence. Continued … 

Drunken monkeys attack man, push him off a cliff in Ranong

A 44-year-old Thai man was violently attacked by 10 drunken macaques when he was walking on a road that passes the top of a cliff in the Ranong area, Khao Niwet.

The gang of monkeys attacked him and pushed him off the cliff that descends 50 meters to the nearest road. Continued …

Analysis: Like It Or Not, Coup-linked General Most Likely To Become PM

Like it or not, Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan will be the most likely person to become prime minister after an upcoming general election, despite the likelihood of a failure on his own part to win most MP seats.

That Prawit will likely have the largest chance of winning the top post of government among all partisan contestants will by no means pertain to a number of MP seats the Palang Pracharath may get in the nationwide election, speculated in early or mid-May, but will decisively hinge on the hands of a coup junta-appointed army of 250 senators, according to political observers. Continued … 

Thailand’s EV Industry Attracts Chinese Automakers

Thailand, known as the largest auto manufacturer in Southeast Asia, has a well-established auto industry, with over 60 years of experience in vehicle assembly and manufacturing. The country produces nearly two million vehicles annually, accounting for approximately half of the Southeast Asian auto market.

Recognizing the immense potential, Chinese automakers have invested USD 1.44 billion to establish production facilities in Thailand, aiming to disrupt the stronghold that Japanese companies have traditionally held in the region. Continued …

Bayer Thai taps solar energy for its row crops seed production site in Phitsanulok

Bayer Thai Co. formally switched on its solar panel installation to power its corn seed production site in Phitsanulok using renewable energy.

The rooftop-based, solar-panel installation covers 50% of the site’s total available space and can generate 600KW. It will contribute to a 20% reduction in CO2 emission, which is equivalent to 371 tons per annum or comparable to the carbon absorption capacity of a 190,000 mangrove trees plantation. Continued …

What is sports tourism and why is it a key driver for PKK’s tourism sector?

In recent years, the concept of sports tourism has gained significant traction, with travelers increasingly seeking destinations that offer not only beautiful landscapes and cultural experiences but also opportunities to engage in sports activities or witness thrilling sporting events.

Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan, as a whole, have emerged as prime destinations for sports tourism, attracting both domestic and international visitors. Continued …

Thai tourism industry anticipates growth under potential Pheu Thai government

The Thai tourism industry is buzzing with optimism as the Pheu Thai party is potentially gearing up to form the anticipated government.

With Pheu Thai’s known successful stint in the realm of governance and its proven track record in enhancing the economy, the tourism sector is eagerly waiting for efficient tourism policies to be rolled out to mitigate existing challenges. Continued …

Exat to hold public hearings on highway connecting Samui to mainland

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat) is studying seven possible routes for a highway that will link resort island Koh Samui to the mainland of Surat Thani, a coastal province in the Gulf of Thailand.

The project is having the first public hearing on Monday when the authority will present the pros and cons of each route to residents of Don Sak, Khanom and Koh Samui districts, where the construction could be taking place. Continued …

World Dragon Boat Championship Officially Kicks off in Rayong

The 16th IDBF World Dragon Boat Championship Thailand 2023 finally began yesterday at the Royal Thai Navy Rowing and Canoeing Training Center in Rayong and will last until Aug.13.

Poramase Ngampiches, the mayor of Pattaya, participated in the opening ceremony at Jomtien Beach near the D Varee Hotel. The ceremony was presided over by Patama Leeswadtrakul, a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Continued …

German father drowns, son survives off Phuket’s Karon Beach

A German father drowned while swimming at Karon Beach in Phuket yesterday, while his 11-year-old son survived the incident.

The Thai lifeguard team on Karon Beach rescued the 52- year-old German, Jurgen Ralf Wiltzsch, who lost consciousness at the bottom of the sea. The rescue team was called to the scene and provided CPR to Wiltzsch and transferred him to Chalong Hospital, but staff could not save the foreign man. Continued …

Klook Ends Sale of Certain Cruel Wildlife Attractions

Klook, one of the leading online travel companies, has launched an animal welfare policy to end the sale of circus-style performances involving elephants, dolphins and tigers.

The policy will come into effect by the end of October 2023, ramping up pressure for more travel companies to follow suit as travelers seek more cruelty-free travel options. Continued …

The 10 Best Places to Retire in Asia; Hua Hin 10th

Asia boasts some of the most cost-friendly places in the world to retire. Pockets of India, Vietnam and Thailand can feel amazingly affordable to newcomers. Retirement in Asia is sure to be full of exotic experiences and unexpected adventures.

For some people, the culture shock is thrilling and invigorating, while others might be intimidated by the cultural differences. Retirees in Asia also have access to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Continued …

Ways to Maximize Your Thailand Travel Experience in 2023

It is very likely that you have heard about the beauty of Thailand on social media and are planning to visit the country. If you choose Thailand as your next holiday destination, you will be surprised by its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. The Thai people are warm and welcoming. No wonder Thailand is widely known as the land of smiles.

There are too many places to visit in Thailand and many more activities to participate in. This article will discuss the reasons for visiting Thailand and also tell you certain tips that can maximize your travel experience. Continued …

Annual water buffalo race kick-starts rice cultivation season

An annual water buffalo race took place in the eastern Thai province of Chonburi on Aug. 6. Held to celebrate the start of rice cultivation season, the race aims to preserve traditional Thai culture and educate the younger generation to appreciate these beasts of burden. Held to usher in the start of the rainy season, this year’s race came amid an impending drought brought on by the El Nino climate phenomenon. Video 

Get ready to feast on meatballs in Buri Ram this weekend

Buri Ram province is taking advantage of the National Mother’s Day weekend by hosting the 6th edition of its annual meatball-eating contest. This northeastern province has earned a name for its “Look Chin Yeun Kin”, or meatballs that can be eaten while standing – or meatballs on a stick that can be enjoyed on the go. Thai-style meatballs are pre-cooked and then chilled. They can be eaten either grilled or fried with Thai chilli sauce. This year’s meatball-eating fest will be held from Friday to Sunday from noon to 10pm in the plaza of Chang Arena in Buri Ram’s Muang district. Participants can expect over 40 stalls selling meatballs. (The Nation)

Italian dairy owner crushed to death by cheese wheels

We shouldn’t make light of any death, but this one was a bit… cheesy. In Italy, a 74-year-old man was found dead under a sizeable pile of cheese wheels. The cheese, stacked high on shelves in a Lombardy region dairy and cheese production facility, toppled over, causing thousands of heavy cheese wheels to crush the unfortunate man. Continued …

Bear loose on Iraqi passenger flight at Dubai Airport

An Iraqi Airways passenger flight met unexpected panda-monium when a bear wandered free from its transportation cage. Wildlife experts were called to manage the situation before it got grizzly as the plane prepared for departure at Dubai International Airport. They tranquilized the bear, returning it to its cage and removing it from the aircraft. Continued …

Scientists: No quick fix for Antarctic sea ice loss

Sea ice in the Antarctic region has fallen to a record low this year as a result of rising global temperatures and there is no quick fix to reverse the damage, scientists say in a new study of the impact of climate change on the planet. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

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

Monday’s news-Aug 7

4 Comments

  • Hua Hin Airport expansion plan: 2-3 years before international flights/
  • Hua Hin Profile: Panintorn Prakij/
  • Tips for finding an affordable auto repair shop in Thailand/
  • EGAT Rejects Cheaper Electricity Bills Amid Losses/
  • NHSO now authorized to reimburse all for basic health services/
  • Spanish Chef Confesses To Murdering Colombian Surgeon/
  • Climate change threatens wild tigers’ habitat/
  • Thailand election: Thailand’s precarious political situation is ‘far from over’/General Predicted to be Thailand’s Prime Minister at the End of August/
  • Economy: Thailand Still Wants to Develop a Major Spaceport/Convention bureau cuts MICE outlook/Oil firm subsidiary Arun Plus sees profit from EV foray within 3-5 years/
  • Tourism: Hua Hin and Cha Am among most popular destinations this Mother’s Day/Thai tourism banking on Chinese tourists/Kaeng Krachan National Park closes two areas for recovery/Pattaya Traffic Police Crack Down on Arab Groups/
  • Thailand Experience: 12 Things To Do In Ayutthaya/From World Heritage Site to Roti Sai Mai/Discover the charms of Sing Buri/
  • International: The world inches closer to feared global warming ‘tipping points’/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin Airport expansion plan: 2-3 years before international flights

The Department of Airports (DoA) is planning to upgrade Hua Hin Airport into an international airport to boost tourism.

Rattapol Charoenphon, acting director of Hua Hin Airport, on Sunday said the airport, operated by the DoA, recently expanded its runway to 2.1 kilometers long and 60 meters wide to accommodate Airbus A320 aircraft. Continued …

Hua Hin Profile: Panintorn Prakij

By Felicitee Lawrie

As she sat in Veggie Tales/Wagging Tails Café to Panintorn Prakij, (Paang to her friends), she explained the many and varied demands on her time from the myriad projects she has immersed herself in.

Her business venture, XploreAsia, does provide a livelihood for herself, her business partner and their 15 or so employees, but there is another facet to the business and it can be clearly seen to be filling a profound need for all who participate in its activities. Then there is a charity foundation, The “For Future Foundation”, under whose umbrella the well-known animal welfare service, Rescue Paws, operates, ably assisted by profits from the very café we are sitting in. Continued …

Tips for finding an affordable auto repair shop in Thailand

Regular maintenance checks, routine tire changes, even more, complex transmission work – whatever it may be, it’s clear that going to a good auto repair shop can save you loads of time and money. But finding an affordable auto repair shop that you can trust isn’t always easy.

But here’s the good news – it’s not impossible! Here are six practical tips for finding an affordable auto repair shop in Thailand. Continued … 

EGAT Rejects Cheaper Electricity Bills Amid Losses

The Electricity Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has announced that it cannot entertain any further requests for cheaper electricity bills in the upcoming four-month cycle.

The decision comes as EGAT faces financial strain due to its accumulated loss, which resulted from subsidizing power bills between September 2021 and May 2023. The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) estimates the accumulated loss to decrease to 135 billion baht by the end of the current month. Continued …

NHSO now authorized to reimburse all for basic health services

The National Health Security Office (NHSO) has been authorized to reimburse non-gold cardholders for vaccinations and disease-prevention expenses, the NHSO chief said.

Dr. Jadet Thammathat-aree, NHSO secretary-general, said on Sunday that caretaker Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has signed a third order for the NHSO expense management fund for this year. This would allow the NHSO to reimburse members of the Social Security Fund and state officials under the Prevention and Promotion (P&P) basic public health services. Continued …

Spanish Chef Confesses To Murdering Colombian Surgeon

Police on Koh Phangan said Saturday afternoon that a Spanish chef has confessed to the murder and dismemberment of a Colombian surgeon, with most body parts packed in a suitcase and dumped into the sea but some parts that did not fit in were discarded at a garbage dump.

Latest reports of the investigation into this grisly crime states that Daniel (surname withheld), 29, had now confessed to killing Edwin (surname withheld), 44. Continued …

Climate change threatens wild tigers’ habitat

Climate change presents a big challenge for protecting and preserving tigers in the wild, says the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment permanent Secretary Jatuporn Buruspat.

He shared strong concerns over the fires that are destroying the habitat of the forest’s top hunter. Continued …

Thailand’s precarious political situation is ‘far from over’

With Thailand in a political quagmire once again, Varawut Silpa-archa, the leader of the Chart Thai Pattana Party, and Amorn Wanichwiwatana, a political scientist at Chulalongkorn University, spoke about what lies ahead.

Their comments follow a tumultuous time in Thai politics. After lying in Move Forward’s hands for more than 70 days, Pheu Thai now holds the leading position for establishing a new government. Continued …

General Predicted to be Thailand’s Prime Minister at the End of August

Prescient political activist and anti-corruption campaigner Chuwit Kamolvisit, who this week announced that he may have only eight months to live, is predicting that Thailand’s next prime minister will be 78-year-old Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan, who will be elected at the end of August after several further votes in parliament and the failure of the Pheu Thai Party to form a government.

On Sunday, Chuwit predicted that Thailand’s next prime minister will be the leader of the Palang Pracharat Party, Prawit, the current deputy prime minister and one of the three brothers-in-arms associated with the 2014 coup d’etat in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand Still Wants to Develop a Major Spaceport

In a groundbreaking move, Thailand is venturing into the realm of space exploration with plans to establish its own spaceport.

The initiative, spearheaded by caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, aims to propel the country’s technological capabilities and stimulate economic growth across multiple sectors, potentially creating more than 400 job opportunities for Thai citizens. Continued …

Convention bureau cuts MICE outlook

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has downgraded the revenue forecast for the MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) segment to 96 billion baht, less than half the level recorded in 2019, and attributed to a subdued Chinese market.

TCEB President Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya said even though MICE travelers from Europe, India and Southeast Asia are rebounding strongly, Thailand still needs the Chinese market to return in order to reach its projections. Continued …

Oil firm subsidiary Arun Plus sees profit from EV foray within 3-5 years

Arun Plus Co., a subsidiary of national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc, expects to gain profit from its fledging electric vehicle (EV) businesses within 3-5 years, as Thai drivers become more interested in these new-generation cars.

The company is pushing ahead with EV assembly, battery production and EV rental development projects, all meant to help establish a Thai EV ecosystem. Continued …

Hua Hin and Cha Am among most popular destinations this Mother’s Day

The next long weekend is set to be a busy one in Hua Hin and Cha Am. The two destinations are among the most popular for Thai families celebrating Mother’s Day (Aug 12), according to data from Agoda.

The travel booking website recently revealed the top domestic travel destinations for Thai families during the long Mother’s Day break. Continued …

Thai tourism banking on Chinese tourists

When China announced the country’s surprise reopening in January, every business sector in Thailand responded enthusiastically to the news, particularly the tourism industry, which earned more than 530 billion baht from Chinese visitors in 2019.

Since then, the feeble recovery of the mainland’s economy caused middle-income earners to face salary cuts, leading them to consider saving money instead of spending it on travel. Continued …

Kaeng Krachan National Park closes two areas for recovery

Kaeng Krachan National Park authorities have announced the temporary closure of two popular areas, in a bid to allow natural resources to regenerate and ensure safety during the rainy season.

Park officials said Phanoen Thung Mountain and Mae Saliang Creek will be off-limits to tourists from Aug. 1 to Oct. 31.

Park officials affirmed that several other attractions, including Ban Krang Camp, Pala-U Waterfall, and the Kaeng Krachan National Park Office will continue to welcome tourists, as usual.

Pattaya Traffic Police Crack Down on Arab Groups

Pattaya Traffic Police took firm action against defiant Arab groups on Soi Pattaya Second Road, an area notorious for their gatherings. Lt. Col. Arut Sapan, head of Pattaya City Traffic Police, deployed forces to discipline unruly drivers and operators.

The area frequently witnessed gatherings of Arab tourists revving their engines and causing disturbances to the public. The police issued warnings and public announcements to rental car operators, urging them to cooperate in preventing such behavior and finding solutions to curb the impact on society. Continued …

12 Things To Do In Ayutthaya

When considering a trip to Thailand, many travelers might focus on Bangkok, the lively Thai capital. But not far away is the smaller city of Ayutthaya, full of rich history, gorgeous sights, and a small-town feel that is refreshing after vacationing in adventurous Bangkok.

For those using Bangkok as a home base for myriad day trips in the area, or for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path exploration of Thailand, Ayutthaya offers a jam-packed itinerary. Continued …

From World Heritage Site to Roti Sai Mai

Among the first things that come to mind when talking about Ayutthaya, and perhaps equally as famous as Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is roti sai mai.

This famous dessert is a sweet wrap with a soft and very fine sugar thread filling. It became known worldwide after Lalisa Manoban, aka Lisa Blackpink, posted a video on her IG last year, preparing and then eating this sweet snack. And in more proof of its delectable delights, it even was featured in the Michelin Guide Thailand 2023 edition. Continued …

Discover the charms of Sing Buri

The legendary city of Sing Buri will be colored with art and design during the “Sang See Sing: Let’s Glow Singburi” festival, which will take place at Sing Buri City Hall Ror Sor 130 on Wilai Chit Road in Muang district, from Aug. 18-27.

Organized by the Tourism Council of Sing Buri, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, this festival aims to attract more tourists, especially the new generation, to explore the city’s creative movements and its traditional culture. Continued …

The world inches closer to feared global warming ‘tipping points’

Climate change effects usually become clear over decades and centuries, but they seem to be everywhere this summer: temperature records broken constantly, ocean waters as warm as hot tubs and world leaders so alarmed they’ve called this the “the era of global boiling.” Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
climate change, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-Aug 5

  • No, It Isn’t Time to Worry About retirement visa changes….Yet/
  • Vana Nava Water Jungle Hua Hin ranked best water park in Thailand/
  • Monsoon downpours until Thursday/
  • Public urged to be discreet in water use amid low levels at reservoirs/
  • Tackling Thailand’s water problems/
  • Koh Phangan Murder: Knife, Blood Stains Found In Spanish Suspect’s Room/
  • Over 9,000 villagers flee to Mae Hong Son amid armed clashes in Myanmar/
  • Thailand election: Pheu Thai says time not right for coalition with coup-linked parties/This divorce could get messy/Pita slams ‘backward democracy’ at university/
  • Economy: How the Thai economy is affected by delay in forming new government/How Thailand can draw closer to China despite US rivalry and geopolitical tensions/
  • Tourism: Prachuap Khiri Khan at the 41st Thai Tourism Festival in Bangkok/Pattaya Remains Top Choice for Thais for Upcoming Mother’s Day Holiday/Deputy police chief tackles encroachment epidemic on Koh Lipe/Spooked by drownings, Phuket steps up safety curbs/
  • Thailand Experience: I went rafting on Thailand’s own ‘Little Amazon’/Wild elephant makes yearly trips to Thai village during Buddhist lent/
  • International: Indian couple sells baby for iPhone 14/Brave mum battles giant crocodile in Indonesia/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Expat News is pleased to announce that Sivana Villas has extended its sponsorship

Introducing a brand new private pool villa project in Hua Hin, a beach-side resort where the city meets the sea.

Sivana Pool Villas offers you everything you need in an ideal home without compromising on style and comfort. Located just 10 minutes south of Hua Hin city center, on Soi 126, Phetkasem Road (Khao Tao area) just 5 minutes to the nearest beach, with some units offering sea view.

These new villas are tastefully decorated, functional in design and layout, with attention to details using high-quality materials, and features a large open island kitchen with all premium-brand, built-in appliances, large covered terrace with infinity salt water system pool, large master bedroom with walk-in closet, large windows and high ceiling. Along with resort-like facilities within the estate, i.e. bar, restaurant, fitness, spa and a large lagoon pool with by 24-hour security.

Sivana Pool Villas is located in Hua Hin, just 230 kilometers south of Bangkok. Tel: +66 (0)91 819 9810; e-mail: sivanavillas@gmail.com; Hua Hin Soi 126, Phetkasem Road, Nong Kae.

No, It Isn’t Time to Worry About retirement visa Changes….Yet

Of all our stories in the past week, one particular story, indeed basically just a small portion of the overall story, sent shock waves through the retired ex-pat community and the rumor mill was set on fire.

We are referring to the article about Thai police cracking down on foreign criminal motorbike clubs following it being discovered that the prime suspect in the brutal murder and dismemberment of a German businessman in Pattaya was allegedly a prominent member of one of these clubs. Continued …

Vana Nava Water Jungle Hua Hin ranked best water park in Thailand

Vana Nava Water Jungle Hua Hin has been ranked as the best water park in Thailand, the fourth best in Asia, and the 15th best in the world, according to the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award 2023.

The award solidifies the park’s position as a leading lifestyle destination in Thailand, attracting tourists from all corners of the globe, and reaffirms its standing as one of the world’s top water parks. Continued … 

Monsoon downpours until Thursday

A moderate southwest monsoon will cause rainfall in most regions of Thailand until Thursday, with isolated heavy showers in the north, the east and the south’s west coast, the Meteorological Department said on Friday.

A monsoon system trough over northern Myanmar and Vietnam is affecting the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, with waves in the upper Andaman Sea rising to about two meters and higher during thunderstorms. Continued …

Public urged to be discreet in water use amid low levels at reservoirs

The Royal Irrigation Department has urged the public to conserve water and is encouraging farmers to primarily rely on rainwater for agricultural purposes to store water for future use.

Praphit Chanma, director-general of the department, said that large and medium-sized reservoirs across the country held a total of 39.201 billion cubic meters of water, or 51% of storage capacity. Currently, 15.26 billion cubic meters of usable water is available, or 29% of total storage capacity. Continued …

Tackling Thailand’s water problems

Thailand has experienced an unusually prolonged period of water crises over recent years. The dry seasons are becoming longer and drier, while the rainy seasons are shorter but with more intense rainfall. This oscillating pattern of droughts and floods has become harder to predict and is causing more serious impacts.

Solving the problem is no easy task. Water management in Thailand is complex and daunting because there are many factors involved, some of which conflict with one another — water shortage caused by growing water demand in various sectors, serious floods, rapid urbanization, land use change, as well as outdated urban water systems and irrigation infrastructure. As climate change intensifies, these pressures and problems are harder to deal with. Continued …

Koh Phangan Murder: Knife, Blood Stains Found In Spanish Suspect’s Room

Police have found a knife and blood stains in the Koh Phangan hotel room of a Spanish man who is a suspect in the murder and dismemberment of a Colombian anesthesiologist, whose body parts were found at a garbage dump on the island.

National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittipraphat ordered Deputy National Police Chief Surachate Hakparn and the head of Police Region 8 Lt. Gen. Surapong Thanomjit to quickly solve this case because the grisly murder had shaken both local people and tourists. Continued …

Over 9,000 villagers flee to Mae Hong Son amid armed clashes in Myanmar

Armed fighting continued in Myanmar’s eastern Karenni State on Friday, while more than 9,000 Myanmar villagers displaced by the recent clashes are taking shelter in the northern Thai province of Mae Hong Son across the border.

Fighters from the ethnic Karenni Army (KA), which operates in the state bordering Mae Hong Son, clashed with troops from the Myanmar military on Friday, according to a high-ranking KA source. Continued …

Pheu Thai says time not right for coalition with coup-linked parties

The time is not right for Pheu Thai to form a new coalition government with two political parties linked to leaders of the post-coup junta, party deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai said on Friday.

He was reacting to questions from the media about the possibility of Pheu Thai including Palang Pracharath and United Thai Nation in the new alliance it is forming after pulling out of the earlier coalition with Move Forward Party. Continued …

This divorce could get messy

The split between the two largest parties, Pheu Thai and the Move Forward Party (MFP), may prove irreconcilable, with the MFP possibly on its way to getting a taste of its own medicine, according to a political expert.

While some pilloried Pheu Thai for dumping the MFP in favor of securing a coalition deal with parties in the previous government, others reckoned their political marriage was never meant to be from the outset. Continued …

Pita slams ‘backward democracy’ at university

Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat alluded to the retrograde state of Thai democracy on Friday as he urged young university students to help redefine the future of their country.

Pita acted as a special speaker at an orientation for freshmen at Thammasat University, talking on the topic of democracy, liberty and fairness – seen as the three pillars of a creative society. Continued …

How the Thai economy is affected by delay in forming new government

If the political situation remains stable, the Thai economy is expected to continue moving forward for the remaining part of this year. The economy has shown signs of improvement moving into the second half of the year, and GDP growth is projected to be at least 3% for the whole year.

On the flip side, prolonged political uncertainty may affect the economy and international confidence next year. As the political temperature rises while we await the formation of a new government following May’s election, many are concerned that the transition period could hit the economy and international confidence, especially if there are prolonged uncertainties. Continued …

How Thailand can draw closer to China despite US rivalry and geopolitical tensions

July 1 marked the 48th anniversary of the formalization of Sino-Thai relations. Today, China is Thailand’s largest trading partner with US$135 billion of trade last year, about 18% of Thailand’s total.

Thai exports to China have also jumped, from just US$1.82 billion in 1995 to US$37.7 billion in 2021, a testament to China’s burgeoning middle class and Thailand’s growing competitiveness as a manufacturing and agricultural powerhouse. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan at the 41st Thai Tourism Festival in Bangkok

Some of the best products produced in Prachuap Khiri Khan have been showcased at a major travel and tourism event held in Bangkok.

According to Achawan Kongkarnan, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office in Prachuap Khiri Khan, the province has a significant presence at the 41st Thai Tourism Festival. Continued …

Pattaya Remains Top Choice for Thais for Upcoming Mother’s Day Holiday

Pattaya’s reputation as a family-friendly destination never recedes, as online travel agent Agoda recently revealed that the resort city is still the most popular choice for domestic tourists who plan to enjoy their upcoming extended holiday during Mother’s Day.

According to Agoda’s data, among the 10 tourist destinations, Pattaya is the most sought-after spot by Thai travelers who intend to go on vacation during the extended Mother’s Day holiday period from Aug. 12-14. Continued …

Deputy police chief tackles encroachment epidemic on Koh Lipe

Deputy National police Chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn has landed on Koh Lipe in Satun province to investigate a wave of alleged encroachment by hotel operators.

At present, 103 cases are being pursued against around 100 hotels and resorts accused of encroaching on the Andaman tourism island, which lies within Tarutao National Marine Park. Continued …

Spooked by drownings, Phuket steps up safety curbs

Phuket officials remain on high alert after five people, including four foreign tourists, drowned near beaches on this resort island over the past week.

Muang Phuket District Chief Pairoj Srilamoon said on Friday the five drowning cases were reported from July 28 to Aug. 3. Since the beginning of this year, 12 people have drowned in rough seas there. Continued …

I went rafting on Thailand’s own ‘Little Amazon’

Jom is a man of few words. Our grasp of each other’s native language – my English, his Thai – is also minimal, meaning we don’t have a lot to say to each other. Then there are the betel nut leaves balled up inside his cheek. Since he’s continually chewing on them, communication between us is doubly hard.

When Jom speaks, which is rare, it tends to be monosyllabic, and grunt-like. “Head,” he’ll say, imploring us to duck when an overhanging branch threatens to knock our melons off. Or “Oh!” when our bamboo raft brushes against a granite boulder unexpectedly. Continued …

Wild elephant makes yearly trips to Thai village during Buddhist lent

A wild elephant has become a familiar sight among villagers as it makes yearly trips to their community during Buddhist lent. Footage shows the creature named Plai Krae plodding along a residential area in Nakhon Ratchasima province, with locals greeting it as it passed by on Aug. 2.

Plai Krae, also called Krae Yan Wang, leaves its habitat in the Khao Yai National Park every year during the Buddhist lent season to look for food. Villagers said it usually stays around the community for around three to four months before retreating back into the wildlife sanctuary. Continued and video …

Indian couple sells baby for iPhone 14

In late July, Indian media reported a shocking incident involving an eight-month-old baby who was sold by his parents to fund the purchase of an iPhone 14. The focal point of the case became the couple’s obsession with the high-end smartphone, resulting in the appalling decision to sell their infant son to meet the purchase price. Continued …

Brave mum battles giant crocodile in Indonesia

In a shocking encounter, a 38-year-old mother of two survived an unimaginable ordeal by fighting off a giant crocodile that dragged her into a canal. The terrifying moment occurred on the morning of July 27, at around 8am, in Kalimantan, Indonesia. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
baht, bangkok, climate change, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, solar, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news-Aug 4

  • Thai baht falls on political uncertainties, Asian FX declines/
  • Heavy rain forecast for 43 provinces/
  • EGAT against further power bill cut/
  • Dismembered Body Part Found At Koh Phangan Garbage Dump/
  • Corrupt police officers linked to firework warehouse explosion/
  • 8 killed and 3 injured after pickup collides with train near Bangkok/
  • Villagers in Tak Wait For a New Road and Electricity/
  • Thailand election: Vote For Prime Minister Put Off After Court Postpones Pita Hearing/Pheu Thai party hints at coalition to include former coup supporters/Opinion: Pheu Thai’s Faustian folly/
  • Economy: Thailand bids to become smart, eco-friendly logistics hub in ASEAN/Chinese investors top BOI investment applications/Global rice trade shook by El Nino, politics, and embargo in Thailand/Thailand to turn global food security crisis into opportunity/Thai oil company division launches solar panel project/Smaller hotels struggling to cope with increasing costs/
  • Tourism: Bangkok beats Paris as most-visited city in 2023/Russian Man Drowns at Phuket Beach After Allegedly Ignoring No Swimming Warnings/
  • Thailand Experience: ‘Feels unreal’: College graduate visits Thailand to care for animals/
  • International: Trump pleads not guilty to election conspiracy charges/11 women mop the lottery floor in India/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thai baht falls on political uncertainties, Asian FX declines

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

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

Heavy rain forecast for 43 provinces

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

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

EGAT against further power bill cut

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

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

Dismembered Body Part Found At Koh Phangan Garbage Dump

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

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

Corrupt police officers linked to firework warehouse explosion

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

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

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

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

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

Villagers in Tak Wait For a New Road and Electricity

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

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

Vote For Prime Minister Put Off After Court Postpones Pita Hearing

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

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

Pheu Thai party hints at coalition to include former coup supporters

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

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

Pheu Thai’s Faustian folly

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

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

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

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

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

Chinese investors top BOI investment applications

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

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

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

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

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

Thailand to turn global food security crisis into opportunity

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

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

Thai oil company division launches solar panel project

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

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

Smaller hotels struggling to cope with increasing costs

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

Bangkok beats Paris as most-visited city in 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trump pleads not guilty to election conspiracy charges

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

11 women mop the lottery floor in India

Life has taken a decidedly fortunate turn for 11 female sanitation workers in southern India, who are no longer in the shit after scooping 100 million Indian rupees (41 million baht) on a united lottery ticket. These women, who were previously struggling to make ends meet with meager daily wages of 250 Indian rupees (100 baht), can now look forward to a brighter future. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
chiang mai, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-July 29

1 Comment

  • Free entrance to national parks during long break/
  • Downpours forecast for most of Thailand until Thursday/
  • Heart failure: cardiologists put out a call to action/
  • Female teachers required to serve alcohol, dance at religious event/
  • Economy: Thai political uncertainty could have ramifications for new investments/Property developers glum on outlook/
  • Tourism: Long holiday a boon for Ko Samui tourism/Unprecedented six-day holiday leads to tourist boom in Pattaya/Eastern Trat islands see huge influx of visitors as long holiday break begins/Thai health and wellness tourism in the global spotlight/
  • Thailand Experience: Guardians of The Forest: Fading Stripes/Thailand’s wild tigers have doubled in number to 189 since 2014/10 Best Natural Attractions in Chiang Mai for a Therapeutic Trip/In perfect harmony: an ode to Buddhism/
  • International: Typhoon Doksuri destroys power lines, closes factories as it rips into China/US announces $345M military aid package for Taiwan/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Free entrance to national parks during long break

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

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

Downpours forecast for most of Thailand until Thursday

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

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

Heart failure: cardiologists put out a call to action

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

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

Female teachers required to serve alcohol, dance at religious event

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

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

Thai political uncertainty could have ramifications for new investments

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

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

Property developers glum on outlook

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

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

Long holiday a boon for Ko Samui tourism

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

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

Unprecedented six-day holiday leads to tourist boom in Pattaya

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

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

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

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

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

Thai health and wellness tourism in the global spotlight

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

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

Guardians of The Forest: Fading Stripes

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

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

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

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

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

10 Best Natural Attractions in Chiang Mai for a Therapeutic Trip

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

10 Must-visit natural attractions in Chiang Mai

1. Doi Inthanon National Park

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

In perfect harmony: an ode to Buddhism

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

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

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

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

US announces $345M military aid package for Taiwan

The United States on Friday unveiled a $345 million military aid package for Taiwan designed to quickly bolster the island’s ability to deter a Chinese invasion. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-July 28

  • Fishing pier walking street opened for holiday weekend/
  • Hundreds of amateur footballers to descend on Hua Hin/
  • Phetchaburi to host 2-day food and art event/
  • Long holiday to boost domestic tourism, hotel occupancy/
  • PKK monkeys to Phuket? Relocation tackles rampant macaque issue in Phetchaburi and PKK/
  • Thailand election: New Thai PM could be elected on Aug. 4, but…/Thaksin’s pending return signals done deal?/’Deal struck on next govt’/
  • Economy: Fuel tariff for Sept-Dec lowered, but private sector opposes it/Thai CEOs’ Top Concerns: Government Formation Delay and Global Demand Slowdown/Climatologist paints bleak picture for Thai farmers/Household debt rose to an average of 559,408 baht this year/
  • Tourism: Russian Elites Transforming Thailand’s Biggest Island as They Become More Unwelcome in the West/TAT Adopts Cautious Approach to Visa Fee Waiver Scheme/41st Thailand Tourism Festival in Bangkok from Aug. 2-6/What Happened to All Those Chinese Tourists?/
  • Thailand Experience: A visitor’s guide to ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand/Top 10 travel tips for your first trip to Thailand/Thailand: Why Many Men Become ‘Short-Term’ Monks/
  • International: Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi moved from prison/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Fishing pier walking street opened for holiday weekend

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

Hundreds of amateur footballers to descend on Hua Hin

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

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

Phetchaburi to host 2-day food and art event

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

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

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

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

Long holiday to boost domestic tourism, hotel occupancy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thaksin’s pending return signals done deal?

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

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

‘Deal struck on next govt’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Climatologist paints bleak picture for Thai farmers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TAT Adopts Cautious Approach to Visa Fee Waiver Scheme

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

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

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

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

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

What Happened to All Those Chinese Tourists?

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

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

A visitor’s guide to ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand

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

Video 

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

Top 10 travel tips for your first trip to Thailand

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

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

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

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

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

Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi moved from prison

Myanmar civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was ousted in a 2021 military coup, has been moved from prison to a government building, an official from her party said Friday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
hua hin, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-July 27

  • Thailand Hikes Entrance Fees for Foreign Visitors at Historical Attractions/
  • Heavy rain forecast for most of Thailand from July 29 to Aug. 1/
  • Soi dog from Hua Hin Railway Station finds new home/
  • As El Nino fuels fire risk, Southeast Asia prepares for haze crisis/
  • Key considerations when applying for a business license in Thailand/
  • Don Mueang Airport’s Director Transferred Over Horrific Accident/
  • Group works to end frozen British expat pensions/
  • Locals complain as Phetchaburi overrun with thieving macaques/
  • Pa thong ko named fifth best street food sweet in the world/
  • Thailand election: MFP seeks reconsideration of Pita’s prime ministerial candidacy/What Pheu Thai’s policies mean for the people and the economy/Meeting in Hong Kong Sparks Speculation on Government Formation/
  • Economy: Thai GDP growth forecast sees downward revision as tourism revenue below estimates/Rising cost of living top concern among Thais/Thailand ranks 7th among world tea producers/
  • Tourism: Low-cost carriers ramp up China flights/
  • Thailand Experience: 10 Things To Know Before Visiting Khao Sok National Park/
  • International: Cambodia leader to step down in 3 weeks, his son will succeed him/China, Taiwan Prepare For Their Most Powerful Typhoon This Year/’Second wave has begun’: Ukraine makes push for southern province/Global warming contributing to rise in skin cancer/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand Hikes Entrance Fees for Foreign Visitors at Historical Attractions

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

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

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

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

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

Soi dog from Hua Hin Railway Station finds new home

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

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

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

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

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

Key considerations when applying for a business license in Thailand

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

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

Don Mueang Airport’s Director Transferred Over Horrific Accident

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

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

Group works to end frozen British expat pensions

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

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

Locals complain as Phetchaburi overrun with thieving macaques

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

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

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

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

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

MFP seeks reconsideration of Pita’s prime ministerial candidacy

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

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

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

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

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

Meeting in Hong Kong Sparks Speculation on Government Formation

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

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

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

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

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

Rising cost of living top concern among Thais

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

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

Thailand ranks 7th among world tea producers

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

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

Low-cost carriers ramp up China flights

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

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

10 Things To Know Before Visiting Khao Sok National Park

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

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

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

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

China, Taiwan Prepare For Their Most Powerful Typhoon This Year

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

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

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

Global warming contributing to rise in skin cancer

Global warming is contributing to a rise in skin cancer globally, including Thailand, where rates are rising among women over 50 years of age. Rates of skin cancer rose about 1% per year among women aged 50 and older from 2015 to 2019 but stabilized among men, according to the Global Cancer Observatory. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
climate change, hua hin, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s News-July 26

  • Expect weather changes as strong southwest monsoon engulfs Thailand
  • Kalasin’s Phu Noi site reveals bones of Thailand’s 13th dinosaur/
  • Fake News becoming endemic in Thailand/
  • Crocodiles rock a community after 10 escape farm during flood/
  • Thailand Election: Parliament vote for Thailand’s next PM postponed/Constitutional Court may not decide this week on ombudsmen’s petition/Foreign chambers warn Thailand of lost opportunities/
  • Economy: Turning Cricket Farming into a Primary Income Source/What carbon tariffs mean for Thailand/
  • Tourism: Top 10 Tips for Travelers to Thailand/
  • Thailand Experience: Here are the do’s and don’ts of elephant encounters in Thailand/Tracing Buddhism’s journey To Thailand/Ladchado’s spectacular candle festival/Top 12 Fun Things to Do in Koh Samui/
  • International: Climate change role in July heatwaves ‘overwhelming’, scientists say/Florida ocean temperature topped 37.8°C, setting potential record/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Expect weather changes as strong southwest monsoon engulfs Thailand

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

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

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

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

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

Fake News becoming endemic in Thailand

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

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

Crocodiles rock a community after 10 escape farm during flood

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

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

Parliament vote for Thailand’s next PM postponed

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

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

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

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

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

Foreign chambers warn Thailand of lost opportunities

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

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

Turning Cricket Farming into a Primary Income Source

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

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

What carbon tariffs mean for Thailand

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

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

Top 10 Tips for Travelers to Thailand

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tracing Buddhism’s journey To Thailand

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

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

Ladchado’s spectacular candle festival

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

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

Top 12 Fun Things to Do in Koh Samui

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

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

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

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

Florida ocean temperature topped 37.8°C, setting potential record

Shallow waters off south Florida topped 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) for several hours on Monday, potentially setting a new world record with temperatures more commonly associated with hot tubs. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

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90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590