- Please welcome returning sponsor S.Ken’s Kao Tao/Where Should You Actually Live in Hua Hin?/AirAsia Hua Hin-Kuala Lumpur flights/Cha Am Squid Festival/Why Hua Hin Expo/PKK campaign warns about smoking/Hua Hin half marathon/Thailand’s wedding payment custom/Thai-Cambodian border stays shut/Thailand’s medical cannabis dream/Thailand to buy eight more fighter jets
- THE IRAN WAR: Another Tanker Attacked In Strait/Houthi blockade threat/Baht set to decline again
- ECONOMY: Restaurants call for more reforms/Thailand studies Bangkok Port closure/US shifts trade war/Thai FTA exports US$31.8 billion/Law covers spread of data centers/ThaiBev Weighs Sale of KFC Franchise
- TOURISM: Foreign tourist arrivals reach 17.36 million/Chinese partnerships to attract more tourists/Thailand’s booming medical tourism/HYROX Bangkok returns
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Korat Buddhist Lent candle festival
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar boom cutting household power bills/Thai agriculture ‘trapped in a vicious cycle’
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Please welcome returning sponso:
Looking for the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a memorable meal? From perfectly seared steaks to vibrant, refreshing salads, every dish on our table is crafted with premium ingredients and passion. Come for the food, stay for the cozy vibes. S.Ken’s Khaotao is a Thai-European fusion restaurant located by the Khao Tao Reservoir in Hua Hin. It offers a warm and friendly atmosphere, uses quality ingredients, and serves delicious food. For reservations – Tel: +66 95 989 2451 ; email: s.kensbnb@gmail.com.
Where Should You Actually Live in Hua Hin?
Thinking about retirement in Thailand and wondering where to live in Hua Hin? This video breaks down the truth about Hua Hin’s best and worst areas in 2026 — based on real-life retirement factors, not holiday impressions. One of the biggest mistakes people make when planning to retire in Hua Hin is choosing an area based on a short holiday instead of long-term lifestyle. The neighborhood that feels perfect for two weeks can be completely wrong for the next 10–20 years. Video …
AirAsia Hua Hin-Kuala Lumpur flights under discussion
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports, through the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with AirAsia Group to elevate mutual tourism promotion under the concept “Amazing Thailand: Feel All the Feelings.” The agreement encompasses marketing collaborations, communications, aviation route connectivity between Thailand and Malaysia, and market intelligence exchanges to drive short-haul travel — particularly from the Malaysian market.
The partnership also pushes for direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Hua Hin, strengthening Thailand’s position as a premier regional tourism destination. Continued …
Cha Am Squid Festival set for September 12-19
The Cha Am Squid Festival will return Sept. 12–19, with the annual event taking place at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint. The festival is officially known as the 25th Eat Shellfish, Catch Squid @ Cha Am Festival.
September and October are considered the peak season for squid in the area, and squid fishing at sea has traditionally been one of the festival’s main attractions.Based on previous editions, visitors are also expected to be able to sample seafood and regional dishes from restaurants in Phetchaburi and neighboring provinces. Continued …
Why Hua Hin Expo to launch November 14-15
The Why Hua Hin? The Hua Hin Expo 2026 will be held at Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, on 14 and 15 Nov. 14-14. The two-day event will be free to enter and is designed to showcase Hua Hin as a place to visit, live, work, retire and invest.
The event will bring together local businesses, residents, visitors, investors, retirees, entrepreneurs and community groups in one venue, with around 4,000 to 6,000 visitors expected across the weekend. Continued …
PKK campaign warns young people about smoking and vaping
Prachuap Khiri Khan has launched a vaping campaign to improve awareness among young people about the dangers of cigarettes, e-cigarettes and nicotine addiction. Deputy Gov. Prateep Boriboonrat opened the training program at Hadthong Hotel in Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan yesterday.
The project, organized by the National Alliance for a Tobacco-Free Thai Society, will train education and public health personnel to explain the health risks of tobacco and new types of e-cigarettes, as well as the laws governing the products. Continued …
Strong turnout for Hua Hin half marathon
Over 1,000 Thai and international runners took part in the inaugural Hua Hin City Half Marathon on Sunday. The event started and finished outside Market Village Hua Hin.
Runners competed across three distances: the 21-kilometer half marathon, the 10-kilometer mini-marathon and the 5-kilometer fun run. Sections of roads in Hua Hin were temporarily closed to accommodate participants. Continued …
Sin Sod: Why Thailand’s wedding payment custom divides
A recent wedding controversy involving a Thai bride and a foreign groom has renewed attention on Sin Sod, the Thai marriage custom in which the groom or his family presents money, gold or other valuables during the ceremony.
Often described in English as a dowry or bride price, Sin Sod remains a familiar feature of many Thai weddings. Yet, it is also among the country’s most disputed traditions, particularly where Thai and foreign partners are involved. Continued …
Thai-Cambodian border stays shut amid political and military tensions
Nearly a year after border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia were shut, intermittent diplomatic overtures have yet to produce the political trust needed to reopen them, leaving border communities and businesses facing an increasingly prolonged economic standstill.
Expectations of a possible thaw emerged in April following reports of informal contact between a person close to Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen and Thai officials operating near the border. Continued …
Thailand’s medical cannabis dream turns into a smuggling nightmare
The fallout from Thailand’s decriminalization of marijuana in 2022 is spreading rapidly beyond its borders, with large shipments of smuggled Thai weed threatening to overwhelm customs officials across the world.
The now-ruling Bhumjaithai Party’s flagship policy to transform the country’s medical sector has triggered a public health emergency at home and rising alarm overseas as Thai cannabis floods global black markets. Continued …
Thailand to buy eight more Gripen E/F fighter jets
Thailand will procure eight more Gripen E/F fighter jets in addition to four others of the same type, the purchase of which has been earlier placed with Swedish aircraft manufacturer Saab AB, according to an air force source.
The Thai air force earlier purchased four Gripen E/F fighter jets for 138 million dollars each, and plans to buy eight more of the Swedish-made, fourth-generation, tactical combat aircraft to make a new squadron of a dozen fighter jets for deployment at Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Korat, the country’s largest air force base, by fiscal 2028. Continued …
Another Tanker Attacked In Strait Of Hormuz As U.S. Strikes Iran For 10th Consecutive Night
Iran attacked a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz early today, forcing its crew to abandon the ship even as the United States conducted yet-another round of airstrikes targeting the Islamic Republic over control of the key waterway.
The 10 consecutive nights of U.S. airstrikes haven’t compelled Tehran to loosen its grip on the strait, through which about a fifth of all crude oil and natural gas traded once passed in peacetime. Continued …
Houthi blockade threat opens new front in Iran war
Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement has threatened to impose a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, raising the prospect of a new front in the widening US-Iran war and adding fresh danger to global energy supplies and maritime trade.
The Houthis announced that what they described as a maritime embargo would take effect immediately in response to an alleged Saudi siege of Yemen. Saudi Arabia’s coalition in Yemen responded by warning that it would use force against the group. Continued …
Baht set to decline again amid Mideast war
The baht is expected to continue weakening against the US dollar this week after falling to a nearly 15-month low, driven by renewed tensions in the Middle East.
According to Krungthai Global Markets, the baht is likely to remain under depreciation pressure in the near term as geopolitical risks intensify. The Thai currency could weaken to between 34.00 and 34.40 baht per US dollar this week, the research house said. Continued …
Restaurants call for more reforms to lower food prices
The Thai Restaurant Assn. is asking the government to connect raw material wholesalers with restaurants to lower ingredient costs, rather than providing subsidies for each dish.
Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association, met with the Commerce Ministry’s Department of Internal Trade yesterday to provide feedback on the “40-baht Khao Kaeng scheme”, a program offering a dish of rice with one choice of kab khao (side dishes). Continued …
Thailand studies Bangkok Port closure and entertainment complex plan
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has ordered a study into a plan to close Bangkok Port in Khlong Toei and centralize its operations at Laem Chabang Port. He also proposed redeveloping the Bangkok Port site as an entertainment complex after the port closes, while firmly ruling out the inclusion of a casino.
The project would focus on developing a cruise terminal, a yacht marina and premium residential properties, with the revenue used to improve the quality of life of surrounding communities. Continued …
Thailand on alert as US shifts trade war to Section 301 probes
Thailand is entering a new phase of trade uncertainty as the United States shifts its strategy from broad-based reciprocal tariffs to targeted investigations under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974.
The move marks a change in Washington’s trade-war playbook under President Donald Trump, after earlier attempts to use sweeping reciprocal tariffs were constrained by a US Supreme Court ruling. Rather than ending the trade conflict, the ruling has pushed Washington toward legal tools with a more specific and potentially longer-lasting impact. Continued …
Thai FTA exports reach US$31.8 billion
Thailand’s use of export privileges under free-trade agreements continued to expand in April, with the value of shipments claiming preferential treatment reaching US$31.77 billion.
The figure represented an increase of 10.2% from the same period a year earlier and accounted for 81.4% of the total value of eligible exports, according to the Department of Foreign Trade. Continued …
New law covers spread of data centers
The Industry Ministry is drafting a landmark law aimed at regulating data center investments in Thailand, as the country grapples with the environmental and infrastructural challenges posed by the sector’s rapid growth.
Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa announced that the legislation will establish clear standards to prevent future problems, particularly those related to energy consumption, water usage and pollution. Continued …
ThaiBev Weighs Sale of Thailand’s Largest KFC Franchise With 500+ Restaurants
Thai Beverage, the maker of Chang beer and SangSom rum, is considering a potential sale of its KFC restaurant franchise business in Thailand, according to people familiar with the matter.
The company is working with Bank of America Corp., a financial-services company, to assess possible buyer interest in the business. Discussions remain ongoing. Continued …
Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals reach 17.36 million
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported that Thailand recorded more than 17 million foreign tourist arrivals from Jan. 1 July 18). Foreign tourist spending generated B838.73 billion.
The five largest source markets were: China: 2,862,241 visitors; Malaysia: 2,250,015 visitors; India: 1,307,959 visitors; Russia: 1,061,349 visitors; and South Korea: 631,777 visitors. Continued …
Chinese partnerships set to attract more tourists to Thailand
New partnerships with seven large corporations in China are expected to help Thailand attract a new, younger customer segment and generate total revenue of nearly 300 billion baht, despite limited flight capacity, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
Airline seats between Thailand and China totalled 7.9 million this year, still below the 13.1 million recorded before the pandemic, while surging jet fuel prices amid conflicts in the Middle East have further worsened the situation by driving up airfares. Continued …
Thailand’s booming medical tourism
Thailand’s rich culture, beautiful landscapes and distinctive cuisine aren’t the only reasons why tourists keep flocking to the country. Thailand has been leading Asia in medical tourism, with more than a million foreigners travelling to the country every year for medical and surgical procedures.
For years, the Thai government has established policies to develop the country into a leading global medical and wellness hub. Priorities primarily include inviting international patients to experience Thai medical care, strengthening private and public health sectors, and promoting wellness services such as preventive care, rehabilitation and traditional Thai medicine. Continued …
HYROX Bangkok returns August 13–16 for Asia’s largest event
Bangkok is preparing to host its largest HYROX event yet, as the global fitness race returns for four days of competition, bringing together more than 20,000 athletes from Aug. 13–16.
BYD HYROX Bangkok will take over the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center following strong demand for the previous event in March. Organizers said registrations have risen by 14%, prompting the competition to expand to four full days for the first time. Continued …
Korat Buddhist Lent candle festival returns with grand parade
Nakhon Ratchasima is preparing to transform central Korat into an open-air showcase of faith, imagination and local craftsmanship as its annual Buddhist Lent candle festival returns from July 28-30.
Elaborately carved candle floats will be displayed around the Thao Suranari Monument, Suan Suranari and Suan Mueang Thong, as well as along Ratchadamnoen and Chumphon roads. Continued …
Thailand’s solar boom is starting to cut household power bills
Thailand is leaning hard into solar and wind power, and households are beginning to see the payoff: lower electricity bills. A report says cleaner energy and more competitive long-term contracts are pushing down the average cost of power, an important signal in a region where air-conditioning demand can hammer family budgets.
The government hasn’t released a precise, nationwide figure for how much bills have dropped, but the direction is clear: Bangkok is using renewables to reduce reliance on imported fuels, especially liquefied natural gas (LNG), whose price swings have rattled power systems across Asia. Continued …
Heavily reliant on pesticides, Thai agriculture is ‘trapped in a vicious cycle’
As the sun rises over the village of Ban Wichit Pattana in northeast Thailand, 62-year-old Chuchart Srithachum does his morning exercise, walking as best he can on his prosthetic leg along the street outside his home.
These days, Chuchart is unable to work. He gets by with money from his son, as well as government allowances for his age and disability. He used to be a rice farmer, working 2.4 hectares of land on the outskirts of his village in Nong Bua Lamphu province. Continued …
Chiang Mai raids target alleged foreign nominee firms
Thai police have searched 18 locations across Chiang Mai in an operation targeting alleged foreign nominee company networks connected with land holdings valued at about 633 million baht. Continued …
Trump slaps 50% tariffs on US$20 billion of Canadian goods
The United States will impose 50% tariffs on nearly US$20-billion worth of Canadian imports, escalating tensions between the two closely integrated economies and threatening a fresh phase in President Donald Trump’s global trade campaign. Continued …
France expected to approve social media ban for under-15s
French lawmakers are expected to approve a bill banning social media access for children under 15 today, putting France at the forefront of similar efforts in the European Union (EU). Continued …
27 bodies recovered, 83 still missing after ferry capsizes off Guyana
Guyana’s government said yesterday that 27 bodies had been recovered from a ferry that capsized off the coast over the weekend with 179 people on board. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
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
Thai police and Chonburi provincial authorities launched coordinated searches at 41 locations on 17 July, targeting 33 companies suspected of using Thai nominees to hold land for foreign nationals.
The past week saw tensions mount among Thais who are becoming increasingly alarmed about China’s growing influence and role in Thailand. Four issues have emerged that patriotic Thais should, at the very least, be concerned about and contemplate within the larger context of Sino-Thai relations.
Leading Chinese companies have shifted their investment plans in Thailand to data centers, the manufacturing industry’s intelligent transformation, and new energy opportunities amid rising land and labor costs and stricter compliance requirements in the country, as well as global tariff shocks.
Suvarnabhumi arrivals face 2-3 hour immigration queues
Thailand is considering a B2.45-billion tourism stimulus package that could offer 500,000 travel co-payment entitlements, discounts on 400,000 domestic airline seats and support for international flights.
Gastronomy Tourism Tipped to Spread Wealth Beyond Bangkok
The Thai government is preparing to support Phuket singer-guitarist Nene Royal in the next stage of her America’s Got Talent journey and involve her in promoting the country’s tourism, international image and soft power.
Dubai carrier flydubai is pressing ahead with its expansion in Thailand, doubling its daily flights to Bangkok from tomorrow as travel demand between the UAE and Southeast Asia continues to climb despite recent geopolitical uncertainty.
Why Isan Cuisine Is Part of Thailand’s Wellness Food Conversation
Koh Samui named world’s best island
The Future of Krabi’s Quiet Luxury
What It Costs To Stay At Hua Hin Wellness Retreat
Is Prachuap Khiri Khan The Most Underrated Thai Beach Town?
Hua Hin doesn’t look like a typical retirement hotspot in Thailand. No loud nightlife, no hype, no constant tourist energy. On paper it looks almost too quiet… but that’s exactly why it works so well for long-term living.
Households get more breaks on power bills
In Thailand, phone brands are seen as status symbols
Thailand seeks more EU investment with infrastructure and FTA drive
The English We Like project opened at Prachuap Wittayalai School yesterday, with Prachuap Khiri Khan Gov. Sittichai Sawatsan presiding over the ceremony for the program, which aims to improve students’ English skills and support university entrance exam preparation.
This walking tour in Hua Hin begins along Soi 80 at night before heading to the famous night market, capturing the vibrant evening atmosphere of this seaside town. As you explore Soi 80 first, you’ll experience real ambient sounds, conversations from open bars, clinking glasses and the natural rhythm of the nightlife crowd. The street feels energetic but welcoming, with restaurants and small venues lighting up the night. From there, the walk continues toward the Hua Hin Night Market, where the focus shifts to street food, seafood grills and rows of illuminated market stalls. 
Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) resolved that there are sufficient grounds to pursue criminal and disciplinary action against six people, including five police officers, over the extortion of 6 million baht from a British drug kingpin, Ritesh Patel.
Oil prices soared anew and stock markets slid yesterday after US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire with Iran was over, following renewed strikes in the Middle East.
The government continues to grapple with the challenge of lowering retail oil prices, which remain stubbornly above 30 baht per liter despite recent declines in global crude markets.
Lower domestic fuel prices are expected to lift consumer confidence, but are unlikely to immediately reduce prepared food prices, according to the Thai Restaurant Assn.
The Thai economy is demonstrating far greater structural resilience than initially projected, prompting the central bank to upgrade its gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for the year to 2.3% — the most bullish estimate currently available in the market.
Thailand postpones land bridge and SEC bill for wider consultation
Thailand’s growing dependence on foreign digital platforms is raising fresh concern over whether the country is slowly surrendering economic value to businesses based overseas.
The House of Representatives yesterday unanimously approved in principle two bills to amend the Hotel Act, despite opposition criticism they would not adequately address long-standing regulatory problems.
Thailand Draws Visitors from Every Corner of Asia, Malaysia, South Korea, and China Lead the Way
Thailand names new long-necked dinosaur from Kalasin
Is Hua Hin Actually Worth It?
Embark on a culinary journey through Hua Hin with this ultimate food guide featuring the 10 best restaurants in the area. From hidden gems to popular street food spots, explore the authentic and exotic flavors that make Hua Hin a foodie’s paradise. Taste test must-try dishes and sharid top food recommendations.
Thailand has been placed on alert for heavy rain, flash floods and rough seas as Tropical Storm Maysak intensifies monsoon conditions across the country, despite the storm not being expected to move directly into Thailand.
With memory prices surging and new gadgets becoming more expensive, the smartest smartphone buy in Thailand in 2026 may not be the newest flagship but last year’s premium model — still fast and polished and far less likely to make your credit card need a lie-down.
The government’s “Thais Help Thais Plus” co-payment scheme has helped to revive the economy and stimulate spending in the food and beverage sector, according to two online food delivery operators.
Households in the northeast are still struggling, and confidence in the economy remains weak, according to a new poll that gave the government’s economic performance low marks.
Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC), said yesterday that Thailand’s exports in May were worth US$34.333 billion, up 10.6% and expanding for a 23rd consecutive month.
Sky Kanyarat was playing pool in the early hours of the morning in one of Thailand’s most famous red light districts when a middle-aged foreigner with a heavy gait approached her. She had often seen him walking past the bar where she worked in Pattaya, a city about a two-hour drive from Bangkok. But this was the first time Kanyarat had seen him come in.
Thailand will introduce tougher airport security measures based on a zero trust approach after a Thai airline cabin crew member was detained in Australia over alleged involvement in drug trafficking. The government said the case should not be viewed as an isolated incident but as a catalyst to strengthen aviation security across the entire air travel system.
Tourism operators in the south have urged the government to strengthen security measures after Malaysian tourists were injured in a roadside bomb attack in Tak Bai, although the incident has affected only a limited number of tour groups traveling to Hat Yai this weekend.
Kui Buri – Where the Wild still roams
Scientists and environmental groups warn the land bridge project could threaten fragile marine ecosystems and coastal communities in southern Thailand, while the government promises economic growth. 
Thailand is intensifying its efforts to combat global warming by steering investment toward green manufacturing. At the center of this strategy is the bio-, circular and green (BCG) economic model — a framework that aims to balance growth with sustainability.
Sustainability has moved beyond the language of annual reports. In Thailand, it is becoming something far more tangible: solar panels on factory roofs, biogas from production by-products, lighter packaging, smarter energy systems and industrial discipline that can be measured in tons of avoided carbon.
Thailand’s ambition to become a leading electric vehicle production hub in ASEAN has gained further momentum, with investment promotion approvals in the EV industry reaching 198 projects worth more than 137 billion baht as of May.
Thailand has established itself as one of Southeast Asia’s leading destinations for luxury real estate, attracting buyers who appreciate high-quality homes, exceptional lifestyles, and a wide variety of residential options. From dynamic city centers to peaceful coastal communities, the country offers something for every type of buyer.
Hua Hin Municipality has ordered Soi 102 drainage work after residents complained about standing water and foul smells in the Na Ta Chang area.
The Pa La-U Fruit Festival 2026 has opened in Hua Hin, with locally grown GI durians on sale for 200 baht per kilogram, as organisers look to attract visitors and support farmers in Huai Sat Yai.
Registration is now open for the AIA One Billion Trail 2026 by TMS, which will take place in Hua Hin on Nov. 21. The event will bring runners to one of Thailand’s best-loved seaside destinations, with routes combining sea views, natural landscapes and plenty of adventure.
Thailand is bracing for another day of widespread rain, with the Thai Meteorological Department warning of heavy downpours in several parts of the country on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Bangkok and its surrounding provinces are expected to see thunderstorms across 70% of the area, while the North and Northeast face rain over 80% of their areas.
The Dutch embassy will relocate from its historic Wireless Road premises to new offices on Rama IV Road in August, ending nearly 80 years at its current site.
Survey shows economic fears persist
Confidence in the broader economy remains “subdued”, with concerns centering on corruption, inflation, and divided opinions about what direction the country should move in, market research firm Ipsos says.
Three of Thailand’s most senior property executives have delivered a sober assessment of the sector’s prospects for the second half of 2026, warning that sluggish economic growth, tightening credit and a climate of global uncertainty will keep the residential market subdued despite modest bright spots in tourism, branded residences and the luxury segment.
Thai Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit said after holding talks with Malaysia’s Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu that the neighboring country will likely lift its temporary ban on import of five Thai shrimp species within 30 says.
The renewed campaign against illegal resorts built on public beaches and protected forests is a welcome sign that authorities are taking conservation more seriously.
Travel And Tour World has released its Top 50 Medical Tourism Destinations for 2026, and Thailand has taken second place, bested only by Turkey and finishing ahead of a global field.
World’s top tourist destinations are done selling sunsets and are betting everything on dinner
Koh Samui shines in Asia-Pacific awards
Despite optimism around the US-Iran ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, it will take time for jet fuel prices to return to pre-crisis levels and airfares could remain high for longer than passengers expect, says the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA).
Thai grandmother Nom Prom-on rummages through rubbish bins looking for bottles, cans and paper to trade for food and other goods at a recycling cooperative providing a lifeline for Bangkok’s poor. Riding an old motorcycle with a rubbish cart attached, the 61-year-old and her husband Rai rise early to beat rival scavengers to claim the best of the city’s recyclabletrash, which they take to a cash-free “zero baht shop”.
Thailand has been ranked the best country in Asia and ninth globally as a retirement destination in the Global Retirement Index 2026. Thailand was ranked ninth worldwide and first in Asia by International Living, a leading US media outlet specializing in overseas living and retirement.
Located in the heart of Thailand, Hua Hin offers a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in Thailand. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant nightlife, Hua Hin has something to offer for everyone.
Hua Hin has long been one of Thailand’s favorite beach getaways, known for its royal history, relaxed atmosphere, and easy access from the capital. But beyond the beach, the city has a lot more going on than you might expect.
Bangchak Corp. (BCP) reduced the retail prices of two premium fuel products by 5 baht per liter from 5 am today. The price cut applies to:
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned of heavy rain in parts of Thailand, with very heavy downpours possible in some areas of the east and the western side of the south today.
Thais genuinely enjoy playing the lottery. Even though the chances of winning the grand prize are staggeringly low, only one in a million, they buy more and more tickets every day.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday that 10 out of 11 Thai-flagged vessels and vessels chartered by Thai operators stranded in the Strait of Hormuz area after the closure announcement on Feb. 28, had now safely left the area.
Thailand’s total dependence on imported fertilizer has left its 16 million farmers dangerously exposed to global geopolitical shocks, according to industry leaders, state officials, and academics who gathered for a roundtable yesterday.
Thailand’s Cabinet has extended ultra-low property transfer and mortgage registration fees for another year, keeping a key housing stimulus measure in place as the government seeks to ease costs for homebuyers and support a fragile real estate recovery.
Thailand’s property market may be moving cautiously, but at the very top end developers are racing in the opposite direction. A new wave of branded residences — backed by global hotel, fashion, design and automotive names — is turning Bangkok, Phuket and resort destinations into a regional test ground for luxury homes sold not merely as places to live, but as managed, long-term collectible assets.
Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) decreased by 0.8% year-on-year to 101.18 points in May, due mainly to a slowdown in the domestic automotive sector, said the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE). The index increased from 92.76 points in April, however, when global conflicts and domestic challenges weighed on industrial activity.
Prachuap Khiri Khan is moving ahead with its wellness tourism strategy, with model communities selected across all eight districts as part of plans to develop the province as a wellness city. At a meeting yesterday at the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Public Health Office, officials reviewed work being carried out in each district to strengthen health services and support sustainable wellness tourism.
Bangkok was named the world’s most visited city for 2025 by Euromonitor International, drawing an estimated 30.3 million international arrivals, ahead of Hong Kong, London, Macao, and Istanbul. Thailand expects that number to climb further in 2026, with 34.9 million foreign visitors forecast and tourism revenue projected at 1.63 trillion baht, an 8% increase year on year.
These 3 Small Thai Towns Could Stretch Your Budget Further
“The future is fully electric,” the president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand), Christian Schell, declared, expressing his confidence in the automobile’s future path. This was emphasized in the first half of 2026 by the oil crisis, when people turned to buying electric vehicles (EVs) in fear of fuel shortages.
Global investment in the energy sector continued to expand, with total investment reaching US$3.3 trillion in 2025, the highest level on record. Of this, US$2.3 trillion went into clean energy, helping lift the share of renewables and nuclear power in global electricity generation to 42%. 
Andrea Canonico focused on her breathing to stay calm as she lay trapped under a building that had crumbled during the two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela last week. Just 23 years old, Canonico spent almost 48 hours in the same position before being pulled out – alive. 
Thai herbs targeted for pharma use
Thailand’s Election Commission is facing its biggest test yet, as powerful new evidence, conflicting findings from its own committees, and a newly filed police complaint pile unprecedented pressure on the watchdog to decide whether 229 people linked to the fiercely disputed 2024 Senate election should face the Constitutional Court.
Thailand seeks solution to human-elephant conflict
Commercial viability key to land bridge, panel says
Tourism operators expect the domestic market will be flat or contract from last year unless the government launches an effective stimulus scheme to increase low-season trips, as Thai household income generation weakened last year.
The Transport Ministry is speeding up infrastructure development to support economic and tourism growth, with the government now positioning Udon Thani as a key mechanism linking the northeast with international markets.
Il dolce far niente — the sweetness of doing nothing. The Italian saying celebrates the simple pleasure of slowing down, something Thailand has long mastered. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes stretching from north to south, the Land of Smiles is renowned for its warm hospitality and deep-rooted wellness traditions, making it a world-class destination for anyone seeking to recharge, both physically and mentally.
Thai police have seized 49 rai of land worth more than B1.05 billion in Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga as part of the latest operation targeting alleged foreign nominee business networks. The coordinated raids on Saturday involved more than 500 officers and resulted from 59 arrest warrants, 60 search warrants, and investigations into 89 land plots linked to suspected illegal ownership structures.
Thailand is facing renewed calls to tighten regulations governing foreign condominium ownership as the government considers raising the foreign ownership quota in condominium projects to attract overseas investment and support a property market still struggling with a slowdown.
Elephants can certainly shift. African elephants can reach top speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour, albeit over short distances only. This is more than twice as fast as the average human runner, so it seems like an open and shut case.
Thailand’s Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) says it has intensified oversight of medical cannabis businesses nationwide, carrying out more than 1,200 inspections in recent weeks as authorities seek to ensure cannabis is used strictly for medical purposes.
During the past week, global attention focused on the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, bringing months of protracted conflict to a halt.
Thailand is entering the second half of 2026 with a mixed economic signal: S&P Global Ratings has maintained the country’s sovereign rating at BBB+ with a stable outlook, but economists warn that pressure from oil prices, rising imports, fiscal deficits, and global uncertainty could keep the current account and the baht under strain.
Can Thailand’s Land Bridge Challenge Malacca and Redefine Asian Trade Routes?
Thailand’s exporters are heading into a more uncertain second half of 2026, with growth expected to slow as global trade risks pile up across energy, logistics, and major export markets.
Vietnam is moving aggressively to expand its global trade reach through a new generation of free trade agreements (FTAs) targeting the Middle East and South Asia, a strategy that could increase competitive pressure on Thai exporters in markets where both countries sell similar goods.
China’s growing pet-friendly culture is creating a new export opening for Thailand, as demand for premium and health-focused pet food rises among Chinese consumers who increasingly treat pets as family members.
Italy has offered to employ 20,000-30,000 Thai workers a year to remedy labor shortages in three sectors, deputy government spokeswoman Patdarat Thongsaluaykorn said yesterday.
Thailand is redefining its annual green season, promoting the rainy months as a prime opportunity for wellness, nature-based experiences, and meaningful travel. Through its “Healing is the New Luxury” campaign, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is encouraging travelers to view the season not as an off-peak period, but as a time for restoration, reflection, and deeper connections with nature and local communities.
Authorities in Phuket are considering a proposal to raise the provincial tax on hotels from 1% to 3% of room rates to generate additional revenue for local development and tourism promotion.
The recent proposal to merge the Ministry of Culture with the Ministry of Tourism should be treated with great caution. This idea may appear to be just a bureaucratic restructuring. But the two ministries have distinct missions, functions and skill sets that should not be combined.
Master the Art of Ordering Som Tum Like a Thai Local
Phangnga: Southern springboard to growth
The Great Hornbill forages in the treetops, usually living in pairs. Outside the breeding season, they can sometimes gather in flocks of up to 150, roosting in trees in valleys. However, they occasionally descend to the ground to forage. Their loud call, “Kok Kok Kok, Kahang Kahang Kahang” or “Kawa Kawa Kawa,” is the origin of their name. Great Hornbills are found in moist evergreen forests, dry evergreen forests, or mixed deciduous forests. 
Thailand needs to accelerate its transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) and expand the use of renewable energy to strengthen long-term energy security, according to Areeporn Asawinpongphan, a researcher at the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Analyst urges shift away from fossil fuels
Thailand’s consideration of an expanded foreign ownership quota for condominium units is being viewed as a possible measure to attract overseas investment, support the property sector, and improve liquidity in a market still facing a slowdown.
Thailand’s cannabis policy is facing fresh scrutiny after the House Public Health Committee convened a tense meeting to examine whether cannabis should be returned to the narcotics list, as concerns grow over widespread sales, legal loopholes, and public health risks.
Residents have raised alarm over what they describe as a growing army of stray dogs roaming the grounds of Chiang Mai City Hall, saying the animals are intimidating visitors, chasing pedestrians, and creating safety concerns at the government complex.
Bypassing Malacca is a bridge too far for Thailand’s ports project
The Finance Ministry is expediting its review of welfare reforms to ensure the benefits target those most in need, minimize duplication across programs, and promote greater participation in the labor force. This approach is based on the concept of a negative income tax (NIT) system.
Is Thailand becoming a welfare state? The answer remains to be seen, given the government’s fiscal constraints. Public debt has risen recently, nearing the statutory ceiling of 70% of GDP.
True Internet Data Center Co., or True IDC, the largest data center and cloud service provider in Thailand under the Charoen Pokphand Group, announced a continuous investment of over 6 billion baht and held a groundbreaking ceremony for its seventh data center in northern Bangkok.
Chiang Mai’s bid to become UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in jeopardy
For decades, Thailand built its economy on the assumption that energy would remain cheap, stable, and someone else’s responsibility. That assumption is beginning to break. Many see this as a threat. It may also be an opportunity.
Thailand’s rapid solar energy expansion has grown from 2.5 megawatts to nearly 5,000 megawatts, supported by government policy and falling costs. End-of-life panel management remains largely unaddressed, however, with projections estimating between 431,000 and 728,000 tons of solar waste by 2050.