- Reader Feedback/Khao Lom Muak climbing dates/Foreign Tourists Injured in Cha Am/Healthcare when living in Thailand/First Chao Phraya Pedestrian Bridge
- ECONOMY: Trump tariffs to bite in 2026/Inequality time bomb ticks away/Vietnam Poised to Overtake Thailand’s Economy
- TOURISM: Why Thailand’s Foreign Tourist Numbers Slipped/Phuket Nightlife Operators Demand Probe/More than 20 speedboats destroyed in Phuket
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s roads and driving habits/7 best night markets in Bangkok/Koh Chang Tops Agoda’s ‘New Horizons’
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand Imposes ‘Burn-Free’ Mandate/Bo Thong Probes Wastewater
- INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS
Re: Airline’s pricing
“Regarding the topics of “decline in domestic tourism,” “exorbitant holiday surcharges,” and “rip-offs”: A few days ago, I booked a flight with my son. The outbound flight cost approximately 2,800 baht. The return flight, the date of which was uncertain, then cost approximately 9,000 baht! Dear Thai Airways, after 13 years of loyalty, that’s it. I will never book with Thai Airways again. Goodbye! (There are other airlines in Thailand, after all.)” – RBM
PKK’s Khao Lom Muak climbing dates for 2026 announced
The 2026 climbing schedule has been confirmed for Khao Lom Muak, one of Prachuap Khiri Khan’s most popular viewpoints, with access granted only on selected dates throughout the year.
Khao Lom Muak is located within Wing 5 of the Royal Thai Air Force base in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Rising to around 300 meters above sea level, the mountain is known for its demanding ascent and clear views across the surrounding bays, including Ao Manao, Ao Prachuap, and Ao Noi. Because of its location inside an active military area, public access is tightly controlled and only permitted on specific occasions. Continued …
Foreign Tourists Injured in Six-Vehicle Crash in Cha Am
A multi-vehicle collision involving six vehicles left two unnamed foreign tourists seriously injured and caused major traffic disruption on the Cha Am–Pranburi bypass in Phetchaburi province yesterday.
The crash occurred at a U-turn point on the southbound carriageway in Cha Am district, resulting in long tailbacks stretching several kilometers. Continued …
A practical way to think about healthcare when living in Thailand
Living in Thailand means co-existing with a healthcare system that’s brilliant in some ways and frustrating in others. Oftentimes, private hospitals feel like five-star hotels, with doctors trained internationally, and the costs seem reasonable compared to Western countries – until you’re actually sitting in that consultation room without insurance, watching the bill climb.
Here’s the thing most people don’t tell you about healthcare in Thailand: the gap between what you think it’ll cost and what you’ll actually pay can be massive. Whether you’re retired and dealing with age-related health issues or you’re younger and convinced you’re invincible, understanding how healthcare really works here changes everything. Continued …
Bangkok Reveals Model for First Chao Phraya Pedestrian Bridge
Bangkok has revealed plans for its first dedicated pedestrian bridge across the Chao Phraya River. The design aims to enhance connectivity and serve as a new tourist attraction.
The proposed bridge will span the river with a modern golden lattice structure and include a central garden area for relaxation and viewing. Continued …
Trump tariffs to bite in 2026, Thai exports may shrink
Thailand’s exports in 2026 could slow sharply — or even contract — as the full-year impact of US tariff policy begins to bite, with weaker momentum also expected in shipments to China, the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) said.
TPSO forecasts Thailand’s 2026 exports in a range of -3.1% to +1.1%, warning that the fading of last year’s front-loading effect and a clearer full-year impact from US tariff measures are key downside risks. Continued …
Inequality time bomb ticks away
Thailand’s inequality is not just unfair, it is unethical. It decides who gets a future and who does not long before effort, talent, or choice has any chance to matter.
As a new year begins, the scale of Thailand’s disparity should unsettle us. In 2018, Thailand was ranked the worst in the world for wealth inequality. Years later, it remains among the world’s 10 most unequal countries. Last year, it ranked the worst in ASEAN, according to the World Inequality Report. Continued …
Vietnam Poised to Overtake Thailand’s Economy This Year Amid Growth Surge
Nikkei Asia reports that Vietnam is on track to overtake Thailand in economic size as soon as this year, fueled by a major state-led infrastructure push. While Vietnam targets real GDP growth of 8% in 2025 and over 10% in the following years, Thailand’s growth is slowing.
Domestic political uncertainty and border tensions with Cambodia are weighing on the Thai economy, with the OECD forecasting its real GDP will grow by only 1.5% in 2026. The shift is driven largely by Vietnam’s nationwide infrastructure development, with public investment expected to increase by 26% in 2026. Continued …
Why Thailand’s Foreign Tourist Numbers Slipped in 2025 and What it Means for 2026
Thailand’s long-running tourism growth story hit a pause in 2025. For the first time in a decade, excluding the pandemic years, the country recorded an annual fall in foreign visitor arrivals.
Thailand saw 32.9 million international tourists in 2025, down 7.23% from 2024, according to figures from the Thai tourism ministry. Revenue from foreign visitors also declined, falling 4.7% year-on-year to about Bt1.53 trillion ($49 billion). The figures mark a clear break from the steady rebound Thailand had enjoyed since borders reopened. Continued …
Your Turnkey Energy Provider
As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency. Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence. With comprehensive aftercare including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year ten and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.
Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.
Phuket Nightlife Operators Demand Probe Into Alleged Extortion
Entertainment venue operators in Phuket have formally petitioned provincial authorities to investigate allegations of officials demanding illicit payments from nightlife businesses, raising concerns about transparency and confidence in the tourism sector.
The complaint was submitted on Monday at the Phuket Provincial Hall, with operators warning that the issue could damage trust among investors and tourism stakeholders if left unaddressed. Continued …
More than 20 speedboats destroyed in Phuket marina fire
A pre-dawn fire this morning at Chalong Pier in Phuket has destroyed more than 20 speedboats, prompting the provincial governor to order an investigation into the cause and emergency measures to prevent any oil from spreading into the sea.
Initial information from witnesses and officials indicated that an explosion and fire broke out on the first speedboat before sea winds carried burning debris to other vessels moored nearby, causing the blaze to spread rapidly. Early assessments suggested more than 20 speedboats were damaged. Continued …
How Thailand’s roads and driving habits haunt foreign tourists
For many foreign tourists, Thailand’s biggest travel anxiety isn’t crime, illness, or even scams — it’s the road. Despite the country’s image as a relaxed holiday paradise, Thailand consistently ranks among the world’s deadliest countries for road accidents.
Long overnight drives, exhausted drivers, loosely regulated passenger vans, and dangerous mountain highways form a risk cocktail that visitors rarely understand until it’s too late. Continued …
7 best night markets to visit in Bangkok
Bangkok is a perennial favorite among travelers, and it’s no surprise why! Between the mouthwateringly good local cuisine, unique cultural experiences, and endless shopping destinations that await, visiting Bangkok is a magical experience unlike any other.
And when you’re in Bangkok, one of the top places you have to visit is a night market. The city’s vibrant night markets truly capture its soul, offering a sensory feast of street food, unique shopping finds, and a lively atmosphere. Continued …
Koh Chang Tops Agoda’s ‘New Horizons’ as Thailand’s Fastest-Growing Hub
Koh Chang has been named the fastest-growing destination for international visitors to Thailand, according to the latest “New Horizons” report released by digital travel platform Agoda yesterday. The annual ranking, which tracks the highest climbers in accommodation bookings year-on-year, highlights a significant shift in traveler behavior.
Visitors are increasingly bypasssing traditional tourist hubs in favor of destinations that offer “authenticity, accessibility, and meaningful experiences.” Koh Chang has made a remarkable ascent on the Thai travel map, jumping five places to rank 12th among inbound destinations for 2025. Continued …
Thailand Imposes ‘Burn-Free’ Mandate on Corn Imports to Combat PM2.5 Crisis
The Thai government has officially enforced a pioneering trade mandate requiring all imported animal-feed corn to be certified “burn-free.” The move, effective from Jan. 1, is a cornerstone of the nation’s strategy to tackle transboundary PM2.5 pollution and align its agricultural supply chain with global environmental standards.
The Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) has released four comprehensive regulations designed to “green” the nation’s imports. Corn destined for animal feed must be sourced exclusively from farms that do not employ agricultural burning in their cultivation processes. Continued …
Bo Thong Probes Wastewater as 4 Chinese Plants Fail Tests
The Bo Thong Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) has found that wastewater from four out of six inspection points linked to Chinese-owned factories failed basic treatment standards, amid reports of polluted canals and mass fish deaths in Kabin Buri district, Prachin Buri province.
Authorities have ordered the immediate halt of discharges and are preparing legal action under environmental and public health laws. Continued …
Trump renews push to acquire Greenland, says military an option
The White House has said President Donald Trump and his advisers are weighing “a range of options” to acquire Greenland, including the possibility of using US military force, as European leaders warned that only Denmark and Greenland can decide the territory’s future. Continued …
Hua Hin 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
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group with hotels, resorts, and branded residences across 59 countries, has announced the upcoming launch of NH Hua Hin in Thailand’s royal seaside town. Minor Hotels will assume management of the hotel from Jan. 1.
The Road Safety Operation Center (RSOC) has reported 27 deaths and 174 injuries from 175 road accidents on Jan. , marking day six of the New Year road safety campaign.
Thailand’s New Year road safety crackdown has recorded nearly 4,000 cases entering the probation system over six days, with drink-driving accounting for the vast majority and Nonthaburi, Bangkok, and Samut Prakan topping the provincial rankings.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a fresh weather outlook as another wave of cold air sweeps over upper Thailand, causing temperatures to drop, especially in northern provinces. Meanwhile, strong monsoonal winds are expected to affect the south and coastal areas starting this weekend.
The Thai baht is experiencing a strong rally this week, trading between 31.00 to 31.85 to the US dollar. This strength comes amid a surge in global gold prices, prompted by the US invasion of Venezuela. The move has created a ripple effect in markets, attracting capital inflows to Thailand’s bond sector.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has set out a plan to steer the economy through the transition period before a new government takes office, saying the administration will rely on pre-approved “quick win” measures to sustain momentum and support growth toward 2% in 2026.
Thailand’s exports are expected to keep expanding in 2026, but at a more modest pace of 2%-4%, as the surge seen in 2025 fades and the sector returns to a more “normalized” growth path, the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) said.
The Ministry of Public Health is pushing to enact a new ministerial regulation on cannabis before the next government takes office, with the draft now under review by the Office of the Council of State.
Thailand has emerged as one of the most popular destinations for medical tourism, attracting millions of international patients every year. Known for its affordable high-quality care, internationally accredited hospitals, and world-class hospitality, Thailand offers a unique combination of healthcare excellence and tourism appeal.
Photographers at Bangkok’s Wat Arun temple have been accused of rudely shooing away tourists to photograph paying customers in rented Thai costumes, leading to social-media complaints and a response from the Tourist Police and temple officials to inspect the site and implement preventive measures for tourist safety and Thailand’s image.
The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration, or DASTA, has launched the “The Soul of Thailand” campaign, inviting visitors to experience the spirit of Thai identity through nine travel routes across nine designated areas for sustainable tourism.
Hidden Bangkok Secrets for an Unforgettable Authentic Adventure
Thailand’s industrial sector has demonstrated resilience in the face of tightening European environmental standards, with exports of carbon-intensive goods to the European Union (EU) surging by nearly 55%.
The solar energy market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period 2025-2031, driven by global commitments to decarbonization, supportive government policies, and significant cost reductions in photovoltaic (PV) technology.
Thailand has implemented a new car excise tax structure effective from Jan. 1, reshaping vehicle prices across the market. Petrol-p owered vehicles, especially large-engine and high-emission models, have become more expensive, while electric vehicles (EVs) and some hybrids now face lower tax rates.
Thailand’s New Year holiday 2026 concluded with more than eight million people traveling across the country, while road accidents and transport disruptions declined compared with the previous year, according to the Ministry of Transport.
As Thailand moves toward its 2026 general election, the future of the country’s tourism industry has become a central issue for investors, operators, and local communities. With tourism accounting for a significant share of national income, the policies adopted by the next government are expected to influence foreign direct investment, public safety, and long-term infrastructure planning, particularly in rail transport.
Thailand’s property sector endured its most punishing year in decades throughout 2025, with household debt, stringent lending conditions, and collapsing purchasing power battering the market. Yet, major developers are unveiling distinct 2026 strategies — from luxury pivots to multinational expansion — while economists warn that structural headwinds will persist.
With Thailand’s economy in 2026 projected to grow modestly at around 1.5%, several business sectors have begun preparing for potential headwinds – some persisting from last year and others emerging as new risks, particularly with a planned general election in February.
With global and domestic headwinds pressuring the Thai economy this year, the new government should consider “focused domestic intervention” measures to enhance tourism and attract foreign investments in specific sectors, says the Thai unit of German insurer Allianz.
The so-called “medical economy” championed by the government is being positioned as a new growth engine for Thailand. Policymakers describe it as a potential game changer for state-owned hospitals struggling under mounting financial pressure.
Climate change is no longer limited to shifting weather patterns, but is a growing force reshaping Thailand’s economic outlook in 2026, according to Treethep Palakavong Na Ayudhya, chief executive of Global Carbon Corp., a local greenhouse gas-management consultancy.
Thailand’s exports in 2026 are expected to face volatility and challenges due to a global economic slowdown that is dampening demand in key trading nations.
The online shopping sector will be driven by product discounts, the buy now-pay later (BNPL) strategy, and improved operating efficiency among e-commerce platforms powered by artificial intelligence (AI), said Paul Srivorakul, group chief executive of aCommerce, a pioneer in e-commerce enablement services.
As Thailand’s tourism sector enters 2026, some foreign visitors are raising concerns over the rising cost of enjoying Pattaya’s nightlife and attractions. Despite high visitor numbers, local bars and restaurants report low takings, with many international tourists — particularly from India, Korea, and China — spending primarily within their own cultural establishments rather than at local businesses.
The first time I ever spent a night in the hospital was in Bangkok. A CT scan during my annual check-up revealed a condition requiring the opinion of a specialist. I was panic-stricken.
Thai food businesses in the United States are poised for growth in 2026, fueled by an increasing trend of dining out. Director-General Sunanta Kangvalkulkij of the Commerce Ministry’s Department of International Trade Promotion cited recent consumer behavior surveys as proof of this surge.
The “large-scale” invasion and abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Saturday, under the order of US President Donald Trump, marks a return of American unilateralism and exceptionalism with a bang.
Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez is known for her anti-imperialist rhetoric, earning her the nickname “the tigress” from toppled leader Nicolas Maduro. A fierce defender of Maduro, who was snatched by US forces in an extraordinary raid early Saturday, Rodriguez is now seeking to portray herself as a steady hand to lead the country’s political transition. 
The demonstrations began again in Iran last week, only two years after the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement convulsed the country for months. However, the current protests are potentially much broader than that episode because they are driven by the collapse in Iran’s currency, the rial (now 1,420,000 to the US dollar), and the explosive rise in the cost of living. 
A 20-year-old Myanmar national has died following a violent assault at Hua Hin fishing pier, with police arresting three teenage suspects within hours of the incident. The victim succumbed to severe injuries at Hua Hin Hospital after being attacked late on New Year’s Eve, prompting a swift investigation by local authorities.
In a situation where the Thai economy faces challenges on all sides, especially the high level of household debt, reaching 90% of GDP, and the slowdown in nationwide residential property transfers, projected to fall by 6% in 2026, the Thai real estate market is inevitably dependent on foreign investment.
Phuket’s tourism industry is calling on the government to urgently resolve what it describes as a deepening infrastructure crisis, warning that the island’s rapid tourism growth is outstripping its ability to cope.
Direct international flights between Singapore and Chiang Rai have officially begun, marking the first such service since the Covid-19 pandemic and strengthening air connectivity to northern Thailand.
At least nine people have died and more than 200 ?have been hospitalized in the central Indian city of Indore after a diarrhea outbreak that officials said was linked to contaminated drinking water, according to a lawmaker and local ?health authorities. 
China’s BYD has surpassed Tesla to become the world’s largest seller of electric vehicles (EVs) in annual sales. This marks the first time BYD has outpaced its American competitor, with BYD’s sales increasing by nearly 28% to over 2.25 million vehicles in 2025. Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales dropped by almost 9% to 1.64 million vehicles globally. 
Thailand puts on stunning fireworks show in Bangkok
The microplastics derived from bottles represent an invisible risk to human health, according to a recent study. The most alarming data from the analysis reveals that those who consume bottled water daily can incorporate up to 90,000 plastic particles more per year than those who drink from the tap.
Jakarta ranked as the world’s largest city with 41.9 million inhabitants followed by Dhaka, while Tokyo slipped to third, a recent United Nations (UN) report shows.
The Nakhon Pathom–Cha-am Motorway project is among 11 megaprojects, valued at over Bt359.8 billion, that Thailand’s Transport Ministry has prepared for Cabinet approval in 2026.
Since the last general election in May 2023, Thailand has been in the throes of political turbulence. Two prime ministers have served short terms in office while the third PM would have had barely four months in office. The country is now preparing for its next general election, scheduled for Feb. 8.
Pongnakorn Pochakorn, assistant spokesperson for the Finance Ministry, said preliminary figures showed spending under the Khon La Khreung Plus scheme reached 84.19 billion baht before it ended on Dec. 31. A total of 19.76 million people used the scheme.
The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has released its 2025 Thailand Water Quality Situation Report, revealing positive trends. Most coastal and surface water resources nationwide remain in “fair to good” condition.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s decision to dissolve the House adds challenges to the state push for a transition to clean energy in 2026.
Dozens were killed and over 100 injured when a fire ripped through a crowded bar in the luxury Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana early Thursday, as young revellers rang in the New Year. Horrified bystanders described “panic” as people tried to break the windows of the bar to escape, and others, covered in burns, poured into the street. 
Police Smash Illegal Hua Hin Factory Rebranding Expired Milk for Sale
BoT flags prolonged manufacturing slump as competitiveness fades
The best New Year’s eve dinners around Thailand
U Power signs deal for up to 1,000 electric truck tractors in Thailand
Expat Thailand 2025: Open Doors, Uneven Rules
AIS launches simple SMS scam reporting service via 1185
Indian Boycott Calls Grow After Hindu Statue Damage Near Thai Border
Thailand offers 39 free camping sites for new year holidays
Brigitte Bardot, the French 1960s sex symbol who became one of the greatest screen sirens of the 20th century and later a militant animal rights activist and far-right supporter, has died. She was 91. 
Gold, silver and platinum surge to fresh peaks
What will power Southeast Asia in the coming year? 5 trends to watch
Thai year of environmental upheaval
Thailand’s top 10 cleanest coasts and rivers
UFO festival on Thailand tourism calendar in 2026
Living Lanna: the craft traditions of the north
