Category Archives: transportation

cha am, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Sept 12

Today’s news: PKK Hospital’s new MRI Diagnostic Center/Thailand’s largest naga statue/Cha Am seafood festival returns/Singing in the rain/Storing vegetables and fruits in a freezer/Best beverage container environmentally/One step closer to ‘net zero’ goal/15 million electric cars in 2023/Thai-EU trade talks/Medical Fair Thailand/Tourist taxes/The slow return of Chinese tourists/South Korean Tourists Get Slapped/Eating Spicy Food When It’s Hot Outside/ 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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Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital unveils new MRI Diagnostic Center

Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital opened its state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnostic center on Saturday.

The MRI diagnostic method stands out for its precision in detecting internal body abnormalities, producing high-resolution images using a magnetic field and radio frequency waves. Notably, the procedure does not expose patients to radiation, making it a preferred option for various diagnostic requirements, including brain and bone imaging. Continued …

Thailand’s largest naga statue officially unveiled in Cha Am

Wat Tham Chaeng in Cha Am celebrated the grand unveiling of Thailand’s largest naga statue on Saturday. Situated in the Khao Yai Subdistrict, next to the Phetchaburi Immigration office, the statue stands at a height of 31 meters and boasts a diameter of two meters.

Cha Am seafood festival returns

The viewpoint at Cha Am Beach is playing host to the 22nd “Shellfish & Squid Festival @ Cha Am” through this coming Saturday. The event promises lots of delicious food, live music, and lots of fun activities. There also are local product stalls around the Cha Am beach viewpoint, and nightly squid fishing trips for 100 baht. Entry to the festival is free.

Singing in the rain: Foreigners spark controversy with temple display

A group of enthusiastic foreigners sparked both amusement and criticism among Thai netizens after sharing a video of dancing and singing in the rain Gene Kelly-style in front of a crematorium at a temple in Thailand.

Video 

A foreign woman shared a video of herself and friends on her TikTok account @ks_photogallery. The video features six people taking time out to reenact the 1952 movie Singin’ in the Rain, starring Gene Kelly, while the crematorium and temple formed the backdrop. Continued …

How long can vegetables and fruits be stored in a freezer?

“My family has a habit of storing food in large quantities. How long should vegetables and fruits be stored in a freezer but retain their flavor and safety?” These issues should be of concern to all families.

Freezing is one of the easiest forms of food preservation. Although food can stay safe in the freezer almost indefinitely, that doesn’t mean it will retain its quality and flavor forever. The freezing process does, however, prevent bacteria in the food from growing. Continued …

What is the best beverage container environmentally?

Here’s a quick game for the climate-conscious. Try ranking these disposable beverage containers from least to most environmentally friendly: aluminum, glass, paperboard, plastic bottle, plastic pouch.

Unless you’re an expert in the subject, your answers are likely a long way from reality. That’s a problem. Packaging is a trillion-dollar (34.5 trillion baht) market that generates hundreds of millions of metric tons of waste yearly — but our ideas about it are often based more on hunches than solid information. Continued …

Thailand takes 2nd place as best nation for starting business

Thailand has secured the second position as the best country in the world to start a business in 2023, as per rankings published in the US News and World Report.

The “Best Countries for Starting a Business in 2023” report assessed 85 countries on various factors, such as taxes, labor conditions and other business-related conditions. The rankings to start a business this year were determined through a comprehensive survey involving more than 17,000 people worldwide. Continued …

Prime minister outlines new government’s economic policies

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday pledged to implement the Pheu Thai-led coalition government’s policies for optimum interests of the country and people.

On the first day of the new government’s policy statement at parliament, the prime minister vowed to put forward four urgent policies to boost the national economy and relieve the people’s economic woes. Continued …

Thailand Dealing with Growing Global Headwinds

Thailand’s economic recovery may be hindered by a global slowdown, and the government’s economic stimulus policies could lead to higher government debt, according to Fitch Ratings analysts.

The U.S. is expected to experience a mild recession, while Europe will see below-trend growth due to persistent inflation. China’s growth is slowing due to a severe downturn in the property sector. Thailand is also affected by the weaker global backdrop, with declining merchandise exports and below-pre-pandemic levels of tourist arrivals. Continued …

Thailand moves one step closer to ‘net zero’ goal

The Carbon Markets Club and the Thai Renewable Energy Assn. (RE 100) joined forces on Monday, signing an agreement to collaborate on initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Gloyta Nathalang, executive vice president for corporate branding, communication and sustainability activation at Bangchak Corp., and Veeradej Tejapaibul, president of RE 100, formalized their collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding in a ceremony at Century Park Hotel Bangkok. Continued …

Gartner forecasts 15 million electric cars will be shipped in 2023

Nearly 15 million electric cars (battery electric and plug-in hybrid) are expected to be shipped worldwide in 2023, according to the latest forecast by Gartner. Shipments of electric cars are estimated to increase 19% in 2024, to total 17.9 million units.

Gartner forecasts that shipments of all-electric vehicles (EVs) – cars, buses, vans and heavy trucks – will total 18.5 million units in 2024, with electric car shipments representing 97% of total EV shipments next year. Continued …

Thai-EU trade talks to start next week

Thailand is preparing to embark on talks regarding a free-trade agreement with the European Union (Thai-EU FTA) next week, with the aim of concluding the deal within two years.

According to Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Trade Negotiations under the Commerce Ministry, the ministry is preparing to lead a team of state agencies to negotiate the first round of the Thai-EU FTA, scheduled for Sept. 18-22 in Brussels, Belgium. Continued …

Medical Fair Thailand 2023 returns next week

Next week will see the opening of the much-awaited Medical Fair Thailand 2023. This marks the first edition since 2019, a hiatus attributed to the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the exhibition prepares to open its door in a matter of days, the significance of the exhibition is magnified as it welcomes 800 exhibitors hailing from 40 countries, as well as 22 national pavilions and country groups, notably featuring Latvia, Poland, and Portugal for the first time. Continued …

Tourist taxes: All of the countries you will have to pay to enter

Travel has well and truly bounced back since the pandemic, buoying tourist destinations that were crippled by restrictions and closures. But some popular destinations are once again reeling under the strain of over-tourism.

As a result, some resorted to implementing a “tourist tax” last year and others have followed suit in 2023. Continued …

What the slow return of Chinese tourists means to Thai tourism

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for Chinese tourists, who accounted for nearly 30% of the total international arrivals to Thailand in 2019.

In every country in Southeast Asia, Chinese tourists make up a substantial number of arrivals every year. Because of that, pretty much since outbound travel from China dried up at the onset of the pandemic, tourism and hospitality professionals have had just one question on their lips: when will they be coming back? Continued …

South Korean Tourists Splash Beer at Pattaya Women and Get Slapped

Two South Korean tourists reportedly threw beer at a group of Thai women, before the group attacked them in retaliation, resulting in one tourist being injured. The incident occurred on Soi 12 near Pattaya Beach Sunday night.

Sawang Boriboon rescue workers received a report of the incident and rushed to the scene to find two unidentified South Korean men lying in the middle of the road, seemingly heavily intoxicated. Continued …

Why It Actually Makes Sense To Eat Spicy Food When It’s Hot Outside

You wouldn’t think that eating a meal of fiery Sichuan Dan Dan noodles with numbing oil or warming tom yum soup would cool you down when it’s hellishly hot outside, but it’s true. Take a look at where some of the spiciest foods come from to see that they’re usually the warmest places on the planet.

Curries, salsas, and jerks are all enjoyed in places like Thailand, Mexico, and Jamaica, where residents are seemingly unfazed by both the spicy food and the high temperatures. The answer lies not in a tolerance for either spice or heat, but rather a physiological quirk of the human body – sweating. Continued …

Town in Portugal flooded by red wine after distillery’s tanks burst

A coastal village in Portugal faced a flooding Sunday like no other as 600,000 gallons of red wine flowed through the streets of the small town of São Lorenco de Bairro, according to local outlets. Continued …

How technology and innovation shape Norway as a leader in aquaculture and sustainability

Norway is known for its cold and rough climate, which makes it challenging for humans to live in, but it is a perfect living condition for fish. This is why Norway thrives on fishing and aquaculture, a tradition that has been passed down for many generations and has become one of the biggest and most sustainable seafood exporters in the world. Continued …

The 25 most important AI words everyone should know

Most acknowledge the growing impact of artificial intelligence worldwide, but only a few understand it. People usually hear terms like “chatbots,” “machine learning”, and “large language models” and steer clear from discussing this technology. However, you can catch up by learning the most important artificial intelligence jargon. 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

 

bangkok, hua hin, pattaya, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 11

Today’s news: Over 500 riders in Tha Sadet cycling event/Suvarnabhumi’s SAT-1 terminal to soft launch/Two days of downpours/Millionth animal neutered/Transport sector set for major upgrade/Suicide rate in Thailand/Enhanced universal healthcare/PM promises economic cure/Srettha’s Priorities/Electricity consumption to surge/China EV behemoth to build factory in Thailand/Digital wallet only short-term economic stimulation/Turning Thailand into ‘Kitchen of the World’/TAT eyes sustainable green strategy/Pattaya Floating Market to Reopen/Tourist hordes threaten Mount Fuji/20 classic Thai dishes/Most underrated Thai dishes/5 neighborhoods to visit in Bangkok/Famous Thai Restaurants Outside Thailand/10 Less-Crowded Unknown Islands/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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Over 500 riders take part in Tha Sadet cycling event

On Sunday, Rajabhakti Park in Hua Hin played host to over 500 cyclists for the “Cycling Local Tour, Enjoying Breeze, Nature, and History @Tha Sadet” event.

Organized by the Hua Hin-Cha Am Tourism Business Assn. to highlight lesser-known tourist destinations and encourage exercise, the 50-kilometer cycling event showcased both the natural beauty and the historical backdrop of the region. Continued …

Suvarnabhumi’s SAT-1 terminal to soft launch Sept 28, boosting capacity by 33%

Suvarnabhumi International Airport, governed by Airports of Thailand (AoT), is set to soft launch its Satellite 1 (SAT-1) terminal on Sept. 28, following a successful full-scale trial involving 180 mock passengers and their luggage.

The trial aimed to evaluate operations at both the SAT-1 satellite passenger terminal and the primary terminal, with Thai Airways offering assistance by supplying cabin crew and aircraft for the process. Continued …

Prepare for two days of downpours, weather department warns

The Thai Meteorological Department today forecast heavy rainfall for 42 provinces and a 60%-70% chance of downpours in Bangkok.

The downpours are caused by a monsoon trough passing through the north and northeast. The east will be hardest hit and there is a risk of flooding in the region, the department said. Residents of the region are being advised to be prepared for flash floods and fast-flowing rivers and streams. Continued …

Stray puppy becomes millionth animal to be neutered and vaccinated by Soi Dog

A one-eyed stray puppy in Thailand has become the millionth animal to be neutered and vaccinated by the animal welfare organization Soi Dog Foundation.

Aptly named “Million”, the homeless puppy was taken in by one of the foundation’s mobile sterilization teams after she was found on the streets of Nakhon Si Thammarat, and soon after became the millionth animal to pass through its large-scale spay/neuter and vaccination program since its founding in 2003. Continued …

Thailand’s transport sector set for major 29.7-billion-baht upgrade

Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit recently outlined his ambitious plans for the country’s railways and maritime sectors. Revealed during his inaugural speech, these policies are set to be formally announced next week.

Suriya said that by focusing on these areas, Thailand can significantly enhance its competitiveness in logistics, a sector he contends is brimming with growth potential. Continued …

Suicide rate in Thailand hits half-decade peak despite prevention efforts

Suicide numbers in Thailand have been on a steady incline over the last five years, peaking at 4,800 lives lost in the previous year, as reported by the Department of Mental Health (DMH).

Yesterday marked World Suicide Prevention Day, a global initiative spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO) that took place yesterday. This event brings together international efforts to combat suicide. Continued …

NHSO plans digital transformation, enhanced universal healthcare

Thailand’s National Health Security Office (NHSO) is set to improve its services in alignment with the new government‘s policy, according to NHSO Secretary-general Jadet Thammathataree. The planned modifications pertain to the universal healthcare package, commonly referred to as the gold card scheme, and the digital transformation of the NHSO system.

The NHSO has recently engaged in discussions with newly appointed Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew to explore healthcare policies requiring the agency’s cooperation. Continued …

PM promises economic cure for ‘sick’ Thailand

Thailand is a “sick” nation and the new government will immediately begin introducing economic cures, including the digital money handout and reduced energy prices, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said in his policy statement to the parliament this morning.

He said the national economy was fragile due to the high household debt, which now exceeded 90% of gross domestic product, and public debt, which amounted to 61% of GDP. Continued …

Economic Growth And Drug Control Are Srettha’s Priorities

Prior to the new Srettha Thavisin government policy statement today, Rangsiman Rome, spokesman for the opposition Move Forward Party, criticized the administration’s policies for lacking clarity and being of even lower quality than that of the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, however, spent the weekend visiting three economically significant provinces in the northeast or Isan region: Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai, to strengthen the economy that reaches the grassroots, and to discuss drug suppression to highlight these two most important policies of this administration. Continued …

Electricity consumption expected to surge in 2027 due to increased use of EVs

Thailand’s Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO) will shortly propose its power-development plan (PDP) to Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, in the anticipation that electricity consumption in Thailand will be peaking sharply during the night by 2027, due to the increase in the number of electric vehicles in use.

EPPO Director Wattanapong Kurovat said, however, that the PDP will be subject to a final public hearing, after it is approved by the energy minister, before it is forwarded to the Cabinet for final approval. Continued …

China’s EV behemoth announces plan to build factory in Thailand

One of China’s top three electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, Guangzhou Automobile Corp. (GAC), said it plans to develop Thailand into a global production hub for its right-hand-drive electric car.

The announcement was made at a press conference on Saturday evening that was timed with the debut of the company’s latest SUV, the Aion Y Plus EV, in Thailand. Continued …

TDRI: Digital wallet offers only short-term economic stimulation

The Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) views the Pheu Thai Party’s digital wallet handout policy as merely a short-term measure to boost the Thai economy.

The policy of distributing digital money involves a significant budget allocation. If it proceeds, additional conditions should be attached, such as promoting new job skills and providing wage subsidies, the Institute says. Continued …

Israel eyes turning Thailand into ‘Kitchen of the World’ with its food technology

Israel is seeking to use its advanced food technology in its partnership with Thailand to make global food supplies sustainable and help turn the Kingdom into the “Kitchen of the World”.

The Embassy of Israel recently hosted a food tech roadshow named “Savor the Future of Food” at Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok. The event drew hundreds of participants from both public and private sectors related to alternative food fields such as cultivated meat and plant-based products, as well as sugar reduction and cutting-edge fermentation technologies. Continued …

Tourism Authority of Thailand eyes sustainable green strategy

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revealed its renewed commitment to promote the country as a “sustainable destination”, championing environmental conservation. TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaiboon unveiled this green strategy, aiming to familiarize international travelers with Thailand’s proactive stance toward embracing global sustainability trends.

Thailand, known for its vibrant culture, exotic cuisine, and picturesque landscapes, is now determined to enhance its tourism appeal by focusing on sustainability. Thapanee highlighted that the country is striving to evolve into a high-value and sustainable tourism hotspot. Continued …

Pattaya Floating Market to Reopen Sept 12

The Pattaya Floating Market is planning to reopen Sept. 12 after a major and devastating fire last week.

The fire damaged the Four Regions Floating Market, in which the total cost of damages is initially being estimated of at least 50 million baht. The fire is believed to have started at a wooden restroom building. There are no significant injuries or deaths reported. Continued …

Tourist hordes threaten Mount Fuji, quotas considered

On a gray, rainy Saturday, a steady stream of tour buses arrive at a base station of Mount Fuji, depositing dozens of lightly dressed foreign tourists in front of souvenir shops and restaurants.

The scene evokes a theme park image, not the veneration most Japanese would expect at the base of the 3,776-meter mountain worshiped as sacred by the Japanese, and a source of pride for its perfectly symmetrical form. Considered …

20 classic Thai dishes

Traveling to Southeast Asia is high up on the bucket list of many travelers and there are several reasons to go. For some, it’s the culture, or maybe the cultural shock that awaits them. But for me, it is the food. Out of all the countries in that region, Thai food has become popular around the world.

Thai dishes are an immersive flavor explosion and exploring Thailand for its food is not just about eating meals for the sake of eating. It is about traveling to different parts of the country and letting this beautiful food culture take your taste buds through an amazing experience. Continued … 

The most underrated Thai dishes to order instead of pad Thai

Thai food is amazing, but we understand you’d want to try something new after your eighth bowl of tom yum, pad Thai, or som tum.

With an abundance of resources and a seemingly never-ending supply of ingredients, Thai food is such a vast cuisine. Of course, there are the famous favorites — and there is nothing wrong with ordering them — but many times you may feel more adventurous and want to try something new that still feels authentically Thai. Continued …

5 neighborhoods every food lover should visit in Bangkok

Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Thai food from a humble street stall or an upscale Italian fare at a Michelin-starred restaurant, Bangkok’s food scene has it all. You can find something good to eat in virtually any part of the city. But this means that deciding where to eat can be a real challenge – how does one choose when they’re all so good?

Well, as hard as it might be to choose, there are undeniably a few standout locations in Bangkok that are foodie magnets. And below, we’ve compiled the best neighborhoods with irresistible food offerings for your eat-ineraries in Bangkok. Continued …

5 Famous Thai Restaurants Outside Of Thailand

The magic of Thai cuisine is that it isn’t limited by borders – it’s a global sensation. The exquisite mix of flavors and vibrant dishes has won hearts worldwide, proving that its popularity isn’t just among Thais, but cherished by people of all backgrounds.

As we explore some of the most established Thai restaurants outside of Thailand, we’ll see how this universal love for Thai food brings everyone together for a truly delightful experience. Continued … 

10 Less-Crowded Unknown Islands In Thailand

For travelers seeking a truly intimate and serene island getaway, Thailand has some hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. While its popular islands like Phuket and Koh Samui are bustling with tourists, there are lesser-known, unspoiled paradises that offer the perfect escape from the crowds.

As with most new places, learning a bit about what to expect from the culture is helpful before traveling to it. This article takes readers on a journey to 10 of Thailand’s least-crowded island destinations, where they can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of a secluded oasis. Continued …

Morocco Earthquake Kills More Than 2,000 People

Moroccan earthquake survivors huddled for a night in the open on the High Atlas Mountains on Saturday, a day after the country’s deadliest quake in more than six decades killed more than 2,000 people and laid waste to villages. Continued …

Assessing the implications of renaming India to Bharat

The recent declaration by Indian President Droupadi Murmu, where she referred to herself as the “President of Bharat” during a dinner on the side-lines of the G20 summit, has ignited fervent speculation and debate. Continued …

Asia’s top 5 most stunning gardens to visit

Asia, a continent blessed with heavy rainfall and diverse terrains, features some of the most beautiful gardens in the world. These botanical wonders range from century-old palace gardens to meticulously crafted oases amidst the arid Middle Eastern cities. 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

 

bangkok, climate change, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Sept 9

Today’s news: Reader Feedback/Hua Hin Wine Expo/Thailand rated 29th/Parliament to tackle food waste/7-Eleven plans 700 new stores in Thailand/Walmart discusses sustainability/Food delivery drivers feel pinch/Focus remains on EV package/Thai taxi drivers seek EV incentives/Thai tourism set to soar/Restaurant guidebook launchedPhuket authorities dismiss Russian concerns/New rules on speedboat operators/Thailand International Boat Show/Bangkok Air keen on Phangnga airport/Tom kha gai rated best chicken soup/Nan’s treasure trove of cultural delights/22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok/International news/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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“Just a bit confused regards diesel price caps. If the current cap is 32 baht per litre, how is it that I’m seeing it more than that at every filling station I pass? Surely this is illegal if the government has mandated 32 baht?” – Peter

 

 

Heavy rains forecast for most of Thailand

Isolated heavy rains will hit the north, central, east and the south of Thailand today, but they will be heaviest in the northeast, the Meteorological Department warned.

The downpours will be caused by the monsoon trough lying across the upper north and the upper northeast that extends to a low-pressure zone over the Gulf of Tonkin. Continued …

Thailand rated 29th in US News & World Report’s Best Countries List

Thailand secured a place in the top 30 of the U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 Best Countries list.

The list was created considering each nation’s global performance in various aspects. For example, daily life adventure, agility, cultural influence, entrepreneurship, heritage, quality of life, and more. Continued …

Parliament to tackle food waste after public uproar

A flap over leftover food in the parliamentary dining room has led to a pledge by Parliament President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha to look into the issue and discuss ways to make sure less food ends up going to waste.

The extent of free meals and drinks provided to members of Parliament has drawn wide public attention in the wake of a social media food fight featuring Move Forward MP Sirilapas “Mew” Kongtrakarn. Continued …

7-Eleven debuts in Laos, plans 700 new stores in Thailand

CP All Plc will open hundreds of new 7-Eleven convenience stores and expand its 7-Eleven Delivery service, both in Thailand and internationally, it announced after opening its first branch in Laos.

It plans to add 700 new branches in Thailand, increase its total in Cambodia to 100 stores and open one new branch in Laos. Continued …

US retailer Walmart discusses sustainability with Thai officials, entrepreneurs

The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has ensured American retail giant Walmart that Thai foods and agricultural products, as well as their supply chains, are environmentally friendly and are ready to comply with global sustainability standards.

Walmart executives recently met with ministry Permanent-secretary Sedthakiat Krajangwong and representatives of Thai entrepreneurs to discuss Thailand’s adoption of global sustainability standards. Continued …

Thailand’s food delivery drivers feel pinch as Grab, Line rack up losses

When Piti began working as a Grab delivery driver at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 26-year-old Bangkok resident had little trouble earning a decent wage.

But after two years of delivering food to homes and offices, Piti’s earnings have taken such a dramatic hit that he is looking to switch jobs. Continued …

Focus remains on EV package

Newly appointed Industry Minister Pimphattra Wichaikul pledges to step up efforts to pass a new electric vehicle (EV) incentive package to develop the fledgling Thai industry, hoping to win approval from the Pheu Thai-led coalition government.

The existing package of incentives, including tax cuts and subsidies, is meant to promote EV consumption and production between 2022 and 2023. Continued …

Thai taxi drivers seek incentives to shift to electric vehicles

Taxi drivers across Thailand, represented by the Thai Public Taxi Assn., are petitioning the country’s transport minister for a financial incentive package to facilitate their switch to electric vehicles (EVs).

Association Chairman Sadit Jaitiang plans to bring up this key concern during a meeting slated for next Friday with Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. The meeting is expected to address a range of issues impacting taxi drivers’ welfare. Continued … 

Thai tourism set to soar with anticipated Chinese visa exemption

The Thai tourism industry is poised for a significant boost, as an anticipated visa exemption for Chinese travelers could trigger a surge in foreign tourists, according to Chinese government-owned Thai brokerage, CGS-CIMB Securities (Thailand).

However, the firm predicts that the arrival figures will still lag behind the 2019 statistics due to the economic challenges faced by the mainland. Continued …

Restaurant guidebook launched for culinary treats in secondary cities

One of the world’s leading travel platforms, Booking.com, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has launched the “Thai Foodie Map”, an exclusive guidebook of recommended local restaurants in secondary cities across the country.

The move is part of TAT’s efforts to attract both foreign and domestic travelers looking for authentic culinary experiences, aiming to entice tourists to stay longer and spend more money in Thailand. Continued …

Phuket authorities dismiss concerns over rising Russian population and mafia claims

Yesterday, Phuket authorities refuted allegations that the island has been overrun by Russians, including members of the mafia. These claims were sparked by a report in Al Jazeera earlier this week, which highlighted concerns among locals.

The locals fear that Russian tourists are snatching jobs usually held by Thais, operating unlawful businesses, and causing a surge in property prices, making it increasingly challenging to rent on the island. Continued …

Pattaya authorities impose new rules on speedboat operators at Bali Hai Pier

In Pattaya City, the local authorities have put forth new stringent regulations to deal with issues plaguing speedboat operators at Bali Hai Pier. This includes the implementation of standardized ticket prices and a ban on herding tourists.

On a day in early September, the Pattaya City Council convened to strategize and regulate tour boat operations. This was spurred by a conflict among operators competing for tourists heading to Koh Larn from Bali Hai Pier, situated in South Pattaya. Continued …

Thailand International Boat Show to drive growth of marine leisure tourism

The new expanded format and the addition of “Thailand Yachting Conference” and “Robb Report Best of the Best Yachting Awards” make the show a must-attend event for boat enthusiasts across Asia.

Organizers of Thailand’s premier boating and luxury lifestyle platform, the Thailand International Boat Show A Luxury Lifestyle Event, which is set to take place Jan. 11 – 14 at Royal Phuket Marina, expect the expanded format to attract over 6,000 visitors and provide a boost to Thailand’s marine leisure industry. Continued …

Bangkok Air keen on Phangnga airport

Bangkok Airways is eager to invest in the new airport planned for Phangnga if the government switches its plan from a public project to a public-private partnership scheme, as the project has high potential to become a new tourism hub in Thailand.

The government is considering building a new airport in Phangnga in an effort to handle the congestion at Phuket airport. Continued …

Tom kha gai rated best chicken soup

Thailand’s tom kha gai, chicken in galangal-infused coconut cream soup, has won first place among the 10 Best Rated Chicken Soups in the World, as ranked on the TasteAtlas global food mapping site this week.

TasteAtlas ranked tom kha gai top of the list, with 4.7 out of five stars. There were a total of 1,376 entries for the ranking. Continued … 

Treasure trove of cultural delights awaits visitors to Nan

The northern province of Nan is known for its beautiful mountainous landscape, local temples, one of which bears the famed mural of the whispering couple, and traditional rock salt production. But those attractions aside, the province has plenty of cultural highlights just waiting to be discovered.

Spread over 11,472 square kilometers, Nan is bordered by Uttaradit, Phrae and Phayao, and to its north and east by Sainyabuli province in Laos, a geological landscape that has given birth to a blend of art and culture mirrored in temples across the province. Continued …

22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Rooftop Bars and Ancient Temples Included

One of the most exciting and energetic capital cities in the world, Bangkok is the perfect gateway for travelers ready to take a deep dive into the beauty, history, culture, and traditions of Southeast Asia. The frenetic metropolis may cause a bit of sensory overload, but getting into its rhythm is part of the adventure.

Built along the Chao Phraya River, modern-day Bangkok is an amalgamation of culture, ethnicities, architecture, and even time periods. It’s entirely possible to pass a 400-year-old temple on one corner and a tech-forward, 21st-century shopping mall on the next. Continued …

India Or Bharat? Dinner Invite Sparks Speculation Amid Push To Rebrand The Country

It began with a dinner invitation. How it ends could affect more than a billion people. State-issued invites sent to guests of this week’s G20 meeting referred to India’s president, Droupadi Murmu, as “President of Bharat.” Suddenly, in many circles, the question was everywhere: Would the country of more than 1.4 billion now be called by its ancient Sanskrit name? Continued …

Earthquake In Morocco Kills At Least 296 People

A powerful earthquake that struck Morocco late Friday night killed at least 296 people, the country’s Interior Ministry said. Moroccans posted videos showing buildings reduced to rubble and dust and parts of the famous red walls that surround the old city in historic Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site, damaged. Continued …

Hong Kong, Shenzhen deluged by heaviest rain on record

The Asian financial hub of Hong Kong was drenched on Friday by the heaviest rain since records began 140 years ago, with 83 people hurt, three seriously, as unusually wet weather caused by typhoons brought more disruption to southern China. Continued …

France’s latest crude, culinary counter-offensive

The French government has just published a decree banning the use of terms like “steak”, “spare ribs” and “ham” on plant-based foods. Sausages and “poultry nuggets” will escape the ban so long as the plant protein content is less than 6%. Continued …

World falling dangerously short of climate goals: UN

A world facing catastrophic climate change is perilously off course in meeting goals for slashing carbon pollution and boosting finance for the developing world, according to the UN’s first official progress report out 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

 

hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-Sept 8

1 Comment

Today’s news: Road to Give charity run/PM Srettha asks to meet Biden/No closure of Facebook/Tree-clinging locals saved in flood/2-baht tax cut to fuel price/EGAT to boost renewable energyTree-planting carbon credit project/Initiatives to push green growth/Electric vehicle producers upbeat/New capital of cannabis tourism?/Focus on environmental protection/Fire at Pattaya Floating Market/Chonburi beach again fouledPattaya’s untidy shoreline/Expansion of Loei Airport/Traveler labeled ‘privileged/Fish sauce: Villain or hero?/El Niño threatens the world’s rice supplies/Pay to enter Venice?/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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Road to Give charity run Nov 5

Marriott International is presenting its annual running event with contributions going to “Save the Children”. There will be both 10-kilometer and 5.5-kilometer categories, with a limit of 1,000 runners. There is a 600-baht entrance fee per person.

To register http://www.rtbth.com/road-to-give-hua-hin-2023/; Map https://maps.app.goo.gl/R54XUMsT9EYn3iuv5;for more information: 032-904-666 / 032-708-000 (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM), 065-221-1005 / 065-221-1006 (5:00 PM – 12:00 AM).

PM Srettha asks to meet Biden during his US trip for UN General Assembly

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Thursday expressed his wish to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden during his upcoming trip to New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly.

Srettha also said that he hoped to welcome President Biden on the American leader’s future trip to Thailand, which he expected to take place soon. The Thai PM is scheduled to attend the 78th session of the UN General Assembly to be held at the UN headquarters from Sept. 18-26. Continued …

New minister rules out closure of Facebook

The new Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Chantararuangthong, has backed off from his predecessor’s threat to end Facebook services in Thailand due to its repeated failures to deal with fraudulent ads.

Prasert said on Thursday that he would instead seek a meeting with Facebook executives to discuss Thailand’s concerns on the matter. He explained that there were as many as 45 million Facebook accounts in Thailand and most Thai users benefit from decent use of the social media platform. Continued …

Kalasin’s disaster team saves tree-clinging locals in NE Thailand

Kalasin’s Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office swiftly came to the aid of locals trapped by flash floods, stuck to trees for up to 14 hours in northeastern Thailand.

The local government, led by Thanaset Chaisongkramthanatat, the mayor of Kuchinarai, called on officials to stay alert and assist affected citizens. Ongoing rainfall has already resulted in flash floods across four districts, significantly impacting agricultural areas and submerging roads. Continued …

Government plans 2-baht tax cut to fuel price drop below 30 baht per liter

The Excise Department is preparing a proposal to reduce diesel tax by 2 baht per liter and aiming to lower the retail price of diesel to less than 30 baht per liter, according to the newly formed government.

The proposal is in the pipeline following Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s announcement to slash the retail price of diesel to 30 baht per liter from the current cap of 32 baht per liter. The Excise Department is currently preparing data on diesel tax reduction to present to the Ministry of Finance and the prime minister. Continued …

EGAT aims to boost renewable energy to 30% by 2027

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is moving forward with its Net Zero initiative, aiming to increase the proportion of renewable energy to 30% by 2027, while planting an additional 1 million acres of forests and investing in 8 million tons of carbon capture.

This move comes in response to concerns about trade imbalances and low-priced imported products affecting Thailand’s exports and industries. Continued …

Tree-planting carbon credit project in Khon Kaen a success

The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) is collaborating with the “Bank of Trees” community and more than 6,800 other communities to support the BAAC Carbon Credit project.

This project involves the purchase and sale of carbon credits and issues T-VER standard certificates from the Department of Environmental Quality Promotion (DEQP). The goal is to address business needs in achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Continued …

New industry minister promises slew of initiatives to push green growth

New Industry Minister Pimpattra Wichaikul said on Thursday that the government would focus on promoting sustainable industries that are environmentally friendly.

She said discussions would be held with relevant parties on the creation of zero-carbon industries in Thailand. This would be in addition to promoting the use of alternative energy to achieve the goal of becoming a bio-circular economy. Continued …

Electric vehicle producers upbeat on investment

More electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are expected to invest in Thailand, although the latest EV incentive package is believed to be less attractive than its predecessor, says the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT).

The existing package of incentives, including tax cuts and subsidies granted to car manufacturers and importers, ranging from 70,000 baht to 150,000 baht per unit, is meant to promote EV consumption and production between 2022 and 2023. Continued …

As Amsterdam bows out, what will be the new capital of cannabis tourism?

Amsterdam has dominated cannabis tourism for 40 years, but now it’s stepping back from this multibillion-dollar industry, creating opportunities for emerging marijuana destinations in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. New rules in the Dutch city’s central tourist area limit alcohol sales, require bars to close earlier, and impose a €100 ($107) fine for public marijuana smoking.

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema has told media that marijuana tourism is a blight on the city, fostering crime and public disorder, and has proposed banning foreigners from its cannabis cafés. Continued …

Focus on environmental protection key to enhancing Thai tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is focusing on ensuring that tourists from around the globe see Thailand in a new light – as a “sustainable destination” that prioritizes environmental protection, TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaiboon said on Thursday.

TAT will focus on educating foreign tourists so that they see that the kingdom’s tourism industry is making strides to align itself with the global trend towards greater sustainability, he said. Continued …

Fire partially destroys popular Pattaya Floating Market

Pattaya’s Floating Market, a popular tourist magnet on Pattaya’s Sukhumvit Road, has been burned to the ground by a fire that broke out last night. Around 1 rai of the 19-rai attraction was totally destroyed in the blaze.

Chon Buri Gov. Thawatchai Srithong says firefighters managed to get the blaze under control at around 10pm. The governor inspected the scene of the blaze later last night, accompanied by Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngamphichet. Continued …

Chonburi beach again fouled by green algae, dead fish

Bang Saen Beach in Chonburi is once again experiencing the plankton bloom phenomenon that has turned the water green and caused a foul odor.

Tourists visiting the beach in the Mueang district were discouraged from going into the water because the color of the sea had turned dark green due to a plankton surge. Continued …

Progress? Pattaya’s untidy shoreline sparks concerns

Jomtien Beach in Pattaya has been a subject of concern recently due to the cluttered state of its local fishing section. The area, specifically near the Chaiyapreuk intersection, has been criticized by citizens for being untidy and disorganized, potentially harming the city’s tourism image. This area serves as a docking and temporary seafood market spot for local fishermen.

Locals have voiced their concerns about the mess created by scattered fishing equipment and personal belongings, which they believe is not only unsightly but also contradicts Pattaya’s commitment to beach cleanliness for the enjoyment of both residents and tourists. Continued …

Plans for expansion of Loei Airport drawn up

The Chamber of Commerce is preparing to present plans for expanding and improving the airport in Loei province to the government, hoping to enhance connectivity for tourism in the northeastern provinces.

This initiative follows a similar plan launched during former Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha’s time in office, when he and his cabinet visited Loei and held a mobile cabinet meeting in Phetchabun province. The cabinet approved the development of Loei Airport to increase its capacity and standards to accommodate the growing number of tourists, allocating a budget of 987.8 million baht for the project. Continued …

Blogger labeled ‘privileged’ for telling people to ‘just book a flight’ to Thailand

A travel blogger has been slammed for being “out of touch” after telling people to just “book a flight” to Thailand amid the cost-of-living crisis sweeping the globe.

‘What are y’all doing in America?’ Kat Crittenden asked, showing off the tranquil blue waters the country is famous for. ‘This could be five o’clock on a Thursday night for you if you just book a freaking flight,’ she added with a smile. She then jumped out of the water grinning. Continued …

Fish sauce: Villain or hero?

Nam pla, or fish sauce, is ubiquitous in Thai gastronomy. Not only is it an indispensable item in local kitchens, but a lifesaver for many Thais traveling overseas.

However, in recent years, the salty condiment has played an unfavorable part in Thailand’s social issues. Continued …

El Niño threatens the world’s rice supplies

Normally by mid-August, Thongpoon Moonchansong’s fields are submerged in still waters, with scattered rice plants reaching up to her knees. The waters are usually so abundant that if you plunge a net into the fields, you can draw out fish and crab to eat. Continued …

Visitors to Venice, Italy, will have to pay an entrance fee starting next year

Tourists planning to visit Venice, Italy, and its historic canals should prepare to pay an extra fee starting in the spring of next year. The city’s officials have committed to a 30-day “experiment” of charging visitors to the city 5 euros to enter on peak days if they’re not staying the night. 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

 

chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Sept 6

Today’s news: Water supply disruption today/Thailand Golf Travel Mart/Thailand will legalize casino within three years/Dengue Fever Claims 3 in ChonburiAre prisoners equal in Thailand?/Impact of a strengthening US DollarBoT may lower GDP rate/Fitch concerned about Thailand/Export forecast cut/’Utility Green Tariff’/Bank shuns fossil fuel businesses/Thai hemp industry’s drive/Stick with the success of the ganja industry/Foot Locker launches/Phuket’s ‘Russian-only’ businesses/Aeroflot to increase Moscow flights/Tourism safety concerns/Top 10 Best Thai Cookbooks/Where locals travel/This City Is One Of The Top Destinations/Enhancing Your Travel Experience/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 Golf Travel Mart 2023 tees off in Hua Hin

Hua Hin this week welcomes the Thailand Golf Travel Mart (TGTM) 2023, a pivotal event for golf industry stakeholders from Thailand and across the globe.

Organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the event underscores Thailand’s reputation as a “World Class Golf Destination.” The Thailand Golf Travel Mart officially was held at the Holiday Inn Resort Vana Nava Hua Hin on Tuesday. Continued …

Experts say Thailand will legalize casino within three years

Thailand will legalize casino gambling within three years, prompting a gold rush among international and regional operators, knowledgeable sources tell iGaming Business. Who stakes claims where depends on how Thailand draws its regulatory map, foreign gaming operators’ willingness to partner with Thai companies – and vice versa.

“Thailand will do ‘it’ but the question is what the ‘it’ will look like,” Destination Capital CEO James Kaplan says. Continued …

Dengue Fever Claims 3 Lives in Chonburi, Cases Top 2,900 Last Week

Chonburi is grappling with dengue fever after over 2,900 people have been infected with the disease and three killed during the last week, Banglamung District Public Health officials said at a health situation update conference.

Kitti Bunrattanate, a Public Health officer, warned the public of the current disease situation in the province, saying there have been 2,987 cases of dengue fever reported in the past week, resulting in three deaths – two in the Banglamung district and one in the Sri Racha district. Continued …

Are prisoners equal in Thailand?

Are all prisoners in Thailand afforded the same treatment that has been given to convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra? The answer is a resounding “no”. And there can be no question about it.

Thaksin, who began serving an eight-year prison sentence upon his return to Thailand from self-imposed exile on Aug. 22, was held for about 13 hours at the Bangkok Remand Prison before being transferred to the Police General Hospital in central Bangkok, where he remains to date. Continued …

Assessing the impact of a strengthening US Dollar on Srettha’s administration

In the realm of global finance, exchange rates serve as a crucial indicator of economic stability and prospects. The current juncture witnesses the Thai economy confronting a notable shift in the strength of the U.S. dollar (USD) against the Thai baht (THB), a development driven by escalating interest rates in the United States.

The foundation of a strengthening USD lies within the complex interplay of global financial variables, with the adjustment of interest rates by the U.S. Federal Reserve emerging as a defining factor. Continued …

BoT mulls lowering GDP and inflation rates

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) is considering lowering its projections for gross domestic product (GDP) and the inflation rate for this year.

The latest economic figures for Thailand released by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) for the second quarter of this year show a modest expansion of 1.8%, which is lower than the Bank of Thailand’s (BoT) expectations. This signals that BoT may have to revise its growth projections downward. Continued …

Fitch analysts raise concerns about Thailand’s recovery

A global slowdown may hamper Thailand’s recovery, while the new coalition’s economic stimulus packages may well result in high government debt, analysts said at Fitch Rating’s annual conference. The conference was held in Bangkok on Tuesday.

However, Fitch expects Thai banks to have some headroom in ratings thanks to improved financial performance, and in some cases, expectations of government or shareholder support. Continued …

Export forecast cut amid global woes

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) has downgraded its export forecast for this year to a contraction of 1% from its previous forecast, which ranged from a contraction of 0.5% to a 1% increase, citing weak global demand.

TNSC chairman Chaichan Chareonsuk said on Tuesday Thailand’s exports will definitely fall into negative territory this year, possibly by -1% or more, due to many unknown risks and persistent problems. Continued …

EGAT expects ‘Utility Green Tariff’ to be announced around year-end

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is expected to announce a new energy price structure, which is known as the “Utility Green Tariff” (UGT), at year end or early next year, in the hope that it will attract multinational corporations to invest in renewable energy mega projects in Thailand.

Warit Rattanachuen, EGAT’s assistant governor for research, innovations and business development, said at a recent seminar on “Road to Net Zero” that several countries have resorted to tax measures on businesses to encourage them to reduce their greenhouse emissions. Continued …

Thai bank shuns fossil fuel power businesses

Government Savings Bank (GSB) plans to phase out lending money to fossil fuel power-generation businesses, with no new loans to be granted to coal-fired power plants from this year.

The effort aims to slash the bank’s indirect emissions of 1.68 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) by 2050. Continued …

Thai hemp industry’s drive for global market success

Since Thailand has relaxed its regulations on hemp and cannabis, allowing for more extensive use, the hemp industry in the country has been steadily growing. Entrepreneurs have come together under the name “Thai Industrial Hemp Trade Association” (TIHTA), a network within the Thai hemp industry.

TIHTA aims to drive, unite and develop the Thai hemp industry, making it robust, from farmers to processors and producers. Their goal is to position the Thai hemp market to meet the demands of the global hemp industry effectively. Continued …

Pheu Thai ‘advised’ to stick with the success of the ganja industry

The caretaker health minister and leader of the Bhumjaithai political party has issued a thinly veiled warning to the Pheu Thai not to try and reclassify marijuana as a narcotic subject to criminal penalties.

Anutin Charnvirakul, who is to be the powerful interior minister in the new government coalition lineup, said that any (unwelcome) moves to recriminalize the weed must be “carefully discussed” with coalition partners, including the military block that legalized ganja back in 2022. But Anutin has this week promised a new law to clear up some dark corners. Continued …

Foot Locker launches in Thailand

Foot Locker, the renowned specialty athletic retailer based in New York, launched its first store in Thailand, targeting the youth demographic and aiming to invigorate the sports shoe/sneaker market.

The announcement came from Deepak Tomar, country general manager and director of MAP Active Adiperkasa, the official licensee for Foot Locker in Thailand, who revealed the store’s opening in the Siam Center last Friday. The retail space spans over 1,321 square meters. Continued …

‘Russian-only’ businesses in Thailand’s Phuket spark backlash

A huge influx of Russians in Phuket is producing a backlash from locals, amid complaints of a booming Russian-only economy that covers everything from hair salons to taxi firms.

More than 400,000 Russians arrived on the Thai tourist island between January and July this year, according to authorities, double the number of visitors before Russia’s war against Ukraine. Continued …

Aeroflot to increase the frequency of flights to Thailand from Moscow

Aeroflot in its fall/winter schedule will increase the flight frequency from Moscow to Thailand. The airline will operate up to 27 weekly flights to Phuket and Bangkok in total.

Thus, from Sept. 29, the frequency of flights to Phuket will increase from 5 to 7 weekly flights, and from Oct. 29 up to 17 weekly services. Three daily flights from Moscow will be operated on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, in other days two daily flights. Continued …

Tourism safety concerns: Thai Government urged to reassure China

The Thai administration is being prodded to collaborate with Beijing prior to implementing a visa-exemption scheme for Chinese tourists, as the country’s image suffers due to its portrayal as a transit hub for fraudulent activities in recent Chinese media, hindering tourism safety.

A Chinese film titled “No More Bets”, which revolves around scammer networks in Southeast Asia, grossed a whopping US$505 million in its initial five weeks. The thriller topped China’s box office in August, simultaneously souring Chinese sentiment toward traveling to Southeast Asia, according to Surawat Akaraworamat, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand. Continued …

Top 10 Best Thai Cookbooks

Are you looking for the most reliable and efficient Thai cookbook in the market? It is quite a common phenomenon to be confused over which is the Thai cookbook to buy.

This dilemma arises due to the existence of various types of Thai cookbooks that are present in the market. To reduce your conundrum, we have prepared a comprehensive guide of how you may pick the best Thai cookbooks available in the market. Continued … 

Discover where locals travel in Thailand

As Thailand’s peak travel season kicks off in November, visitors flock from colder destinations to bask in sun-kissed resorts like Krabi, Ko Samui, and Chiang Mai. With the rainy season behind us, Bangkok comes alive at this time of year with night markets, parties, and endless entertainment opportunities.

While these places, renowned for their vibrant landscapes and culture, attract international visitors in their droves, locals tend to seek sites that offer a more relaxed experience. These hidden gems are where traditions are cherished and pristine beaches are quiet and secluded. Continued …

5 Reasons Why This City Is One Of The Top Destinations In Thailand

With its paradisaical islands, centuries-old Buddhist temples, and verdant nature, Thailand is one of the world’s most popular vacation hotspots, having attracted over 15 million tourists in the first seven months of 2023 alone.

Though the majority of travelers either land in Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling financial center and national capital, or Phuket, the entertainment capital and trendiest resort island, the power duo are not the Southeast Asian giant’s only tourism magnets. Continued …

Enhancing Your Travel Experience in Thailand: 5 Valuable Lessons

Thailand is a popular destination for tourists of all ages because of its breathtaking beaches, extensive cultural history, and energetic towns. This post will explore five important lessons that can improve your travel experience in Thailand.

Lesson 1: Embrace the Local Culture

Thailand is a place rich in traditions, where old traditions coexist peacefully with contemporary lifestyles. Take the time to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. Participating in Thai traditions can be life-changing. Continued …

6 billion tons of sand extracted from oceans each year

Some six billion tons of sand and other sediment is extracted from the world’s seas and oceans every year, the UN said Tuesday, warning of the devastating toll on biodiversity and coastal communities. Continued …

Ugandan coffee farmer deploys technology to thwart effects of climate change

Ugandan coffee farmer Allan Green is deploying modern technology like drip irrigation and artificial mulching to beat the effects of climate change, which is making production of the crop increasingly tougher in Africa’s top exporter of the bean. 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

 

bangkok, climate change, hua hin, immigration, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Aug 31

Today’s news: Champions Cup 7s event this Saturday/Hua Hin native Pone Kingpetch honored/Another media bites the dust/Retail LPG to remain at same price/Elite Card price to be increased by 50%/Cuts to diesel, electricity prices to be proposed/Economic peril for Srettha’s government/Thailand’s per capita income falls/Rules on digital wallet scheme/Boost for condominium sales/Factory output falls 4.43%/New EV policy/EV and renewable energy keyThailand plans visa overhaulNo more beer in glass bottles on Koh Tao/Thousands of Ducks Charge Across Rice Fields/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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This is not a paid ad below. We found it online and thought it might be useful for some of our readers. There are many such services available, and we are not endorsing this one. Just a reference point.

Champions Cup 7s event this Saturday

This Saturday, the first Champions Cup 7s Thailand will be held at True Arena, beginning at 9:30am. Organized by Viking Club Hua Hin, the event expects as many as 200 players from around Thailand.

Thailand’s first boxing world champion, Hua Hin native Pone Kingpetch, honored

The World Boxing Council’s Asian branch (WBC Asia) has formally recognized the legacy of Thailand’s first world boxing champion, Pone Kingpetch.

In a recent meeting at the Asian Boxing Council office an honorary certificate was received from the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF). Pone Kingpetch was inducted into the Hall of Fame in June. Continued …

Another media bites the dust

The Royal Coast Review, started by a former editor of Hua Hin Today several years ago, has gone on what its founder calls a “sabbatical.”

According to the publication, “The personal circumstances of the Royal Coast Review founder and managing editor has lead to a decision to take an extended sabbatical away from Thailand and the suspension of the publication of the Royal Coast Review website.”

RCR was started as competition for Hua Hin Today, but recently changed its focus to only report on the local nightlife scene.

Media history suggests that a publication taking a leave such as this rarely makes a comeback.

Retail LPG to remain at same price

The retail price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is expected to be maintained at 25.87 baht per kilogram, or 432 baht per standard 15-kg cylinder, for another month, according to the Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO).

Wisak Watanasap, director of the OFFO, said the fund’s board met on Tuesday and passed a resolution to cap the LPG retail price until Sept. 30, extending it from the expiration date of Aug. 31. Continued … 

Elite Card price to be increased by 50%

Thailand Elite Card is preparing to raise its minimum membership price by 50% to 900,000 baht, from 600,000 baht, as the company attempts to ramp up annual revenue to 8 billion baht, according to Thailand Privilege Card Co. (TPC), the operator of the card.

The four new types of card will also remove the word “Elite” from their title, which has been used since the scheme’s establishment under the Thaksin Shinawatra government in 2003. Continued …

Cuts to diesel, electricity prices to be proposed

New Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he expects his Cabinet to announce cuts to the price of diesel and electricity right after its first meeting.

Srettha was speaking to reporters on Wednesday morning after meeting with outgoing Energy Minister Supattanapong Punmeechaow and ML Chayotid Kridakon, chief of the United Thai Nation Party (UTNP)’s economic team. The meeting was held at the Pheu Thai head office at 11am. Continued …

Economic peril poses a greater threat to Srettha’s government than politics

Even though there are plenty of political challenges facing the Pheu Thai party, not the least being in a weak coalition, the economic challenges are far greater and could spell potential doom for the government if not handled correctly.

Experts say that 2024 will likely be a down year for the global economy and several macroeconomic issues will likely present themselves to the incoming government. Continued …

Thailand’s per capita income falls

Per capita income for this year has taken a hit after the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) revised the gross domestic product (GDP) projection from the initial estimate of 2.7%-3.7% to 2.5%-3%.

This decline is attributed to the second-quarter economic figures for 2023, which fell short of expectations due to a mere 1.8% expansion compared to the 2.6% achieved in the first quarter. The decrease in exports over the course of three consecutive quarters since the fourth quarter of 2022, with a negative growth of 5.7%, is the primary cause. Continued …

Rules on 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme clarified

Pheu Thai Party’s digital wallet scheme will be implemented in the form of utility tokens, a news source familiar with the matter said on Tuesday.

The party leading the government coalition promised during its election campaign to stimulate the domestic economy by providing 10,000 baht in digital money to all Thais aged over 16. Continued …

Free visa policy expected to boost condominium sales

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s policy to offer free visas to Chinese and Indian tourists will likely boost sales of condominiums, the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) said today.

The center’s acting director, Wichai Wiratkapan, expects the Thai property sector to recover slightly from the economic slowdown and strict financial institution regulations on borrowing. Continued … 

Factory output falls 4.43%

Thailand’s manufacturing production index (MPI) in July dropped 4.43% from a year earlier, the Industry Ministry said on Thursday, as exports declined amid sluggish global demand.

The figure compared with a forecast in a Reuters poll for a fall of 4.0% in July. Output shrank 5.24% in June. – Bangkok Post

New EV policy would maintain and increase level of sales

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) is planning to propose to the new government that it implements measures to promote the purchase and manufacturing of electric vehicles (EVs) in Thailand under the EV 3.5 policy until 2025.

BOI Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said on Wednesday that the EV 3.5 policy would help maintain the momentum of EVs in the automotive market, which has been growing thanks to the previous EV 3.0 policy. Continued …

EV and renewable energy key to addressing climate change challenges

Electric vehicles (EV) and renewable energy are essential to deal with climate change and herald a low-carbon society, experts said at the “ASEAN Sustainable Energy Week” on Wednesday at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.

Manu Leopairote, chairman of event organizer Informa Markets Thailand, said that climate change was the major problem affecting all regions of the world. Continued …

Thailand plans visa overhaul to boost tourism, lure Chinese and Indians

The Foreign Ministry is set to overhaul the visa system to boost tourism revenue from Thailand’s main markets, especially China and India.

The move comes after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin met with the airports authority and airlines on Monday for talks on how to attract more foreign visitors. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is targeting revenue of 3 trillion baht from foreign visitors next year. However, Thai tourism operators have complained that lengthy and sometimes costly visa application processes are deterring travelers from Thailand’s top two overseas markets – China and India. Continued …

No more beer in glass bottles on Koh Tao

From tomorrow, beer in glass containers will be banned from Koh Tao as part of attempts to solve the garbage problem on the island.

Only canned beer will be allowed, said Pollution Control Department Director General Pinsak Suraswadi on Wednesday. Vendors on the island will sell only canned beer, he said. Continued … 

Why Thousands of Ducks Charge Across Fields in Thailand Every Year

Step into the enchanting world of rice farming in Thailand through the video below. It captures a breathtaking spectacle. The scene unfolds with an aerial panorama. It reveals a torrential flow of thousands of ducks surging through a gate, akin to molten lava cascading over a precipice.

Video 

This feathered force floods into the rice fields like an invading army. Their awe-inspiring sight might seem like the rice field’s doom to the uninitiated eye. However, a twist in the narrative uncovers a harmonious partnership between the ducks and the farmers. It unveils an ingenious agricultural practice. 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

 

bangkok, cha am, climate change, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Aug 30

Today’s news: Chomsin Road expansion faces delay/How to find EV charging stations/EV charging stations in Hua Hin/Local developers earn property awards/Flood warnings for much of Thailand/Military coups in Thailand are gone/Solar for Bangkok rail lines/Thai tourism faces strain/Thailand likely to ease visa rules/Don Mueang to build third terminal/September festivals, art, sports/World Gravy Wrestling Championships/Existential threat to marine life/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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Chomsin Road expansion in Hua Hin faces 100-day delay

The road expansion project of Chomsin Road in Hua Hin, which aimed to alleviate traffic congestion by expanding from two lanes to four, faces a setback.

An additional 100 days of work has been projected following the discovery of decayed metal drainage covers that can no longer support vehicle weight. Continued …

How to find EV charging stations in Hua Hin and throughout Thailand

The future of motoring in Thailand is electric. That might seem hard to imagine just now but Thailand has gone full throttle on electric vehicles (EV).

With the entry of Tesla and the rise of Chinese electric vehicle makers in Thailand, the choices for buyers have expanded, and the industry has witnessed substantial growth. Continued …

EV charging station at Bluport Mall

EV charging stations in Hua Hin, Cha Am and PKK

  • FN Factory Outlet Cha Am
  • Bang Chak Pump Cha Am (Lemon Green Square)
  • BluPort Hua Hin
  • Market Village Hua Hin
  • Chocolate Factory
  • MG Showroom, Phetkasem Road (All MG showrooms in Thailand have charging stations)
  • Provincial Electricity Authority Office, Phetkasem Road
  • EleX by EGAT, PT Gas Station, Bang Saphan Noi, Prachuap Khiri Khan
  • Most major hotels in Hua Hin and Cha-am now provide EV charging stations for guests

Three local developers earn property awards

The Dot Property Thailand Awards acknowledged a record-breaking 44 winners from all corners of the Kingdom, with two developers in Cha Am and one in Hua Hin earning recognition.

The eighth annual Dot Property Thailand Awards illuminated winners who are not only nurturing growth but also accommodating the evolving needs of home seekers. Honored in Cha Am and Hua Hin were:

  • Best Luxury Villa Development Hua Hin – La Felice Villa Hua Hin by PNP Real Estate Co.
  • Best Villa Development Cha Am – The Cielo Haus Cha-Am Beach by The Cielo Haus Co.
  • Best Beach Villa Architectural Design Cha Am  – Casa Contento x Contenta by Casa Moderna Co. Continued … https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2637983

Flood warnings as heavy rain forecast for much of Thailand

Downpours are likely to increase today, causing possible flash flooding in many parts of the country, especially in the northern, northeastern, central and eastern regions as well as on the west coast in the South and in Bangkok and surrounding provinces.

This weather pattern is due to the influence of the southwest monsoon moving across the northern, northeastern, and central parts of Thailand. Continued …

New defense chief: The days of military coups in Thailand are gone

Sutin Klungsang, deputy leader of the Pheu Thai Party and tipped to be the new defense minister, said today that Thailand has long passed the days of military coups.

He expressed confidence that, with the help of advisers who are former military officers, he will be able to manage the affairs of one of country’s most important ministries effectively. Continued …

MRT to partially power two Bangkok rail lines with solar energy

Thailand’s first deal to use electricity from solar energy to power the rail transport system was finalized on Tuesday with a contract signing between CKPower (CKP) and Bangkok Expressway and Metro (BEM).

CKP, a leading producer of power from renewable energy in the ASEAN region, has entered into an agreement with BEM, operator of MRT trains, as well as several expressways in Bangkok, to use solar energy in powering the MRT trains for the first time in Thailand. Continued …

Thai tourism faces strain from sluggish Chinese, Japanese economies

Tourism operators in Thailand are facing significant challenges due to the sluggish economies of China and Japan and an uneven recovery in Thai tourism that benefits larger operators.

A recent survey by the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) and the Bank of Thailand revealed that 29% of three-star or lower-rated hotels have been severely impacted by interest rate hikes and may require debt restructuring. Continued …

Thailand likely to ease visa rules to lure Chinese, Indian tourists

Thailand is likely to ease visa rules for Chinese and Indian travelers and allow longer stays for visitors from all nations as new Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin looks for ways to boost tourism revenue to nearly US100 billion next year.

Chinese — the largest group of visitors before the Covid-19 pandemic — face a costly and cumbersome visa-application process, which has has been a drag on the tally this year, according to the premier. Meanwhile, travelers from India must pay 2,000 baht ($57) for a 15-day visa on arrival. Srettha of the Pheu Thai Party said he wants the list of visa-exempt countries expanded, as well as increased stay limits for most international travelers, with caps of 15 days or 30 days for many nationalities. Continued …

Don Mueang set to build third terminal

Airports of Thailand (AoT) has announced it will build a third passenger terminal at Don Mueang International Airport to increase capacity to handle up to 50 million passengers a year in 2029.

AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat said on Tuesday that the airport can support 30 million passengers a year and will soon reach its full capacity. Continued …

Thailand’s September sizzle: Festivals, art, sports, and much more

A vibrant array of festivals and events await visitors in Thailand this September. The calendar is packed with religious festivities, art and craft exhibitions, and a variety of sports events. Among these, the Tenth Lunar Month Festival, Ko Lae Boat Racing, Long-boat Racing, Cross-Region Travel Fair, and several marathons and half marathons stand out as key events, promising an exciting month ahead.

The Cross-Region Travel Fair, set to take place from Sept. 1 to 3 in central Hatyai, Songkhla, is the last in a series of five travel fairs organized throughout the year. The fair encourages cross-region travel and showcases a variety of promotions, deals, and DIY workshops reflecting local wisdom from all five regions of Thailand. Continued … 

Inside the World Gravy Wrestling Championships

Competitors participated in a peculiar method of fundraising on Monday at the World Gravy Wrestling Championships in the English village of Stacksteads. Wrestlers donned themselves in fancy dress and battled in a gravy-filled pool to raise money for the local East Lancashire Hospice, which supports people with life-limiting illnesses. Continued …

Existential threat to marine life as oceans impacted by global warming

Marine life is facing a serious threat, as global warming is leading to oceans absorbing excessive carbon, as well as contamination caused by human waste. Ratnavali Poosawat, a specialist on ecology at the Department of Fisheries, said: “The oceans absorb approximately 90% of the Earth’s heat energy. As global temperatures rise, coupled with the absorption of around 30% of emitted carbon dioxide, this results in a decrease in oxygen levels in the water, leading to the condition known as ‘ocean acidification’.” 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

 

bangkok, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Aug 29

Today’s news: Hua Hin litterbugs warned/Storms and heavy rain forecast/Challenges for foreign workers/Tips for taxi riders/Facebook linked to 70% of online fraud/Cancer treatments under 30-baht healthcare plan/ Zika outbreak: Warning for pregnant women/Q2 economic recovery slows/Cooking gas price under review/Diesel tax subsidy/VAT increase still under consideration/Chinese ‘Low-Grade, Low-Price’ Goods Flood Thai Market/Major retailer installs solar/Moving Thailand Manufacturing/20 best hotels in Phuket/Thailand’s spiciest salad being made/Quake rattles Bali/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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Did you know? Hua Hin has 2,000-baht fine for littering – no, really

The Hua Hin municipality has reminded citizens in online warnings about the legal consequences of dumping rubbish in public places. The laws against public littering include tossing litter on the ground, spitting, discarding cigarette butts, and dropping gum. There is a maximum fine of 2,000 baht.

Storms and heavy rain to affect most of Thailand this week

Several provinces will experience thundershowers with isolated heavy to very heavy rains from today until Sunday, the Thai Meteorological Department said in a weather warning issued on Monday.

The department said the conditions were due to the strong monsoon trough lying across the north, central and northeast regions and the strong southwest monsoon prevailing across the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf. Continued …

What are the biggest challenges for foreigners working in Thailand?

Thailand has been among the top countries with the highest number of expat workers. With its flourishing economy and expanding job market, it’s no wonder why overseas professionals are irresistibly drawn to this Southeast Asian country.

But while packing up your life to start anew in a foreign land, especially for work, is undoubtedly exhilarating, you must not overlook the potential hiccups that may come along the way. But remember, every problem has a solution. So to help you prepare for your journey, here are the biggest challenges for foreigners working in Thailand, and how to overcome them. Continued …

Taxi group offers six tips for riders

The Thai Taxi Assn. stirred debate by posting six tips to ensure a satisfactory taxi ride. The recommendations include asking before getting in, not forgetting to tip, and calling for a Grab taxi during peak hours or if the location is difficult for a regular taxi to reach.

The association’s Facebook page recently shared these suggestions, aiming to foster mutual satisfaction between drivers and passengers. The post, titled Thai Taxi Association Recommends Satisfactory Taxi Usage, featured a picture detailing these suggestions. Continued …

Facebook linked to 70% of online fraud in Thailand, says outgoing minister

Facebook is facing legal action from the Digital Economy and Society Ministry and the Royal Thai Police over its sponsored pages service in Thailand, which have been linked to over 70% of online fraud cases according to outgoing minister Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn.

The legal moves against Facebook, including civil and criminal proceedings, according to senior officials, could see the site shut down in Thailand if it fails to address rising security concerns. Continued …

Cancer treatments under 30-baht healthcare plan under consideration

The Thai National Health Security Office (NHSO) is contemplating an expansion of its benefits under the 30-baht healthcare universal package, known as the “gold card” scheme. The addition could include cancer treatment and free screenings for non-cardholders.

In the pursuit of providing affordable medical aid to patients, the NHSO is also investigating potential drugs to incorporate into the national list of essential medicines. The NHSO is negotiating with pharmaceutical firms to provide targeted therapy, which is a crucial need for numerous cancer patients, particularly those battling breast cancer. Continued …

Zika outbreak: Warning for pregnant women as cases spike

A surge in Zika virus cases sparked a warning from the Department of Disease Control (DDC). In the last month, 266 cases were reported. Pregnant women are at risk, as the virus can cause babies to be born with microcephaly, a result of underdeveloped brains.

The monsoon season, with its frequent rain, has created ideal conditions for disease-carrying mosquitoes. Bird baths and other containers that collect water can become breeding grounds. The public is urged to promptly remove any such containers to reduce the risk of Zika and other diseases. Continued …

Thailand’s Q2 economic recovery slows, 2023 growth forecast revised

Thailand’s second quarter of 2023 saw a slowdown in economic recovery, with GDP growth falling from 2.6% year-on-year in the first quarter to 1.8%, as reported by the National Economic and Social Development Council on Aug. 21.

The figures fell significantly short of consensus estimates of 3.1% and growth projections of 2.9%. The economy’s quarter-on-quarter growth was a mere 0.2%, once seasonally adjusted. Continued …

Cooking gas price under review

The Fuel Fund executive committee is preparing to review the subsidy on the retail price of household cooking gas, or LPG, which is due to expire on Aug. 31.

The review will take account of the global LPG market price, the status of the Fuel Fund, and the cost of living for the public and businesses, in order to decide whether the price stabilization for LPG should continue. Continued …

Fuel Fund executive committee seeks to retain diesel tax subsidy

The Fuel Fund executive committee is to recommend that the newly appointed energy minister retains the diesel tax subsidy to keep the price of diesel fuel at no more than 32 baht per liter.

The committee has asked the Office of the Oil Fuel Fund to closely monitor the global energy price situation, especially as winter approaches in the Western nations, which will lead to a high demand for energy for heating purposes and lead to a rise in both oil and LPG prices. Continued …

VAT increase still under consideration

The Thai administration yesterday dismissed the possibility of increasing the value–added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%. Despite this official stance, talks have been initiated around this proposal, attributing the potential increment to the requirement for additional funding to cater to the escalating needs of the country’s aging populace.

From the Office of Fiscal Economy, Pornchai Thiravej, the director, shed light on a proposal put forth by the National Economic and Social Development Council. This proposal advocates for an increase in the VAT rate, as it could serve as a steady source of funds to address the financial necessities of the retirement community. Continued …

Local Businesses Struggle as Chinese ‘Low-Grade, Low-Price’ Goods Flood Thai Market

The slowdown in the global economy is affecting China’s exports, and the recovery of China’s domestic market is slower than expected. This has led to an abundance of Chinese products, including in ASEAN markets such as Thailand, where they compete with local producers, worsening Thailand’s trade deficit with China.

The Confederation of Thai Industry stated that Thailand’s trade deficit in the first half of 2023 will be 603.2 billion Thai baht. This is the result of exports amounting to 603.1 billion Thai baht and imports amounting to 1.2 trillion Thai baht. This deficit in the first half of the year is comparable to that of the entire year 2020. Continued …

Major Bangkok retailer installs rooftop solar

Siam Piwat Simon, a joint venture between Siam Piwat Co. and Simon Property Group operating Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, successfully installed solar rooftop at Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok as a part of its sustainability goals.

The environmentally conscious practice is a coordinated project with Gunkul Engineering Public Co., an integrated leader of renewable energy, to install over 50,000 square meters of solar rooftop at Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, with an investment of over Bt100 million. The solar panels can generate solar power, offsetting the reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity, at 3,800,760 kWh per year. Continued …

Moving Thailand Manufacturing Up the Value Chain

Despite accounting for over 6 million jobs and contributing to 34% of the Thai economy earlier in the year, it is no secret that the manufacturing sector is on a downward spiral.

According to the Thai Ministry of Industry (MOI), the nation’s manufacturing production index (MPI) dropped for a ninth consecutive month in June 2023, declining by 5.24% compared to 2022. Continued …

20 best hotels in Phuket

2. Best eco hotel in Phuket: Keemala

Sheer beauty aside, what we love most about this property in the Keemala rainforest is the variety of lodgings from glamping tents to tree houses spanning two-storys with their own private pools.

Even though it’s a 10-minute drive to the nearest beach, you’ll doubtless spend most of your time in your timber sanctuary, complete with deliciously deep tubs. The food is also exquisitely fresh thanks to the hillside farm that supplies almost half of the resort’s daily vegetable and herbs. The Mala spa is one of the best on the island. Continued …

Watch Thailand’s spiciest salad being made

Watch Thailand’s spiciest salad being made … with thousands of chillis mixed with tomatoes. Footage shows 2kg of chopped-up Bird’s eye chillis, which each measure up to 100,000 Scoville units, being poured onto a large wooden mortar in Bangkok.

The Thai variety that is hotter than jalapeno was pounded with other ingredients such as tomatoes, shrimp with shells on, lime juice, and fish sauce. The mixture was used as the strongly flavored dressing to the salad locally called “som tam” and then mixed with grated unripe papaya and served as is or as a side dish to meat. Continued and video …

7.1-magnitude quake, aftershocks rattle Bali residents

A strong, deep 7.1-magnitude earthquake and several aftershocks rattled Bali and other Indonesian islands today, the USGS reported, sending panicked tourists into the streets but causing no major damage. 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

 

bangkok, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Aug 28

Today’s news: Wine scam circulating in Hua Hin/Opinion: Promised Change/Elephant Stabs His Master To Death/Fears over Fukushima seafood rise/Dr Pakpilai Thavisin: Thailand’s new First Lady/The 600-baht wage hike policy/No plan to increase VAT to 10%/Few jobs for university graduates/Weed Industry Is Poised to Grow Fast/90-day tourist visas?/Thai Smile exiting Surat Thani/Phuket seeks 4am/U-Tapao Airport Nightspots Can Operate 24 Hours a Day/Pattaya Speedboat Operators in Wild Brawl/Chinese Tourist Shortfall in Pattaya/5 Unknown Islands To Explore/What’s really killing historical UK pubs/

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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Local restaurants warned of sophisticated wine scam circulating in Hua Hin

An elaborate wine scam, which previously made headlines in Bangkok, has made its way to Hua Hin, with restauranteurs urged to remain vigilant.

The scheme came to attention earlier this week when a Hua Hin restaurant narrowly avoided falling prey to it. The modus operandi involves scammers making a reservation under the guise of hosting a high-end event and then pushing restaurants to procure wine from a specific vendor. Continued …

Promised Change Gives Way to Familiar Faces

The political landscape in Thailand remains mired in complexities and contradictions, as the recently formed government represents both a reiteration and a perpetuation of existing political realities.

Despite the majority of voters casting their ballots for significant political change, the composition of the new cabinet belies these aspirations. Continued …

Elephant Stabs His Master To Death After Being Sold

A tragic incident happened when a male elephant named Pha Tulu belonging to the Karen tribe fatally stabbed his owner with his ivory at the intersection of Mai Village, Mae Tan subdistrict, Tha Song Yang District, Tak Province, northern Thailand. Pha Phi Du Lerttikhamphon, a 57-year-old mahout, died from a traumatic injury in his body.

The elephant refused to obey Pha Phi Du’s orders to take him to the vehicle and deliver him to his new owner in Surin Province after being sold for 2,760,000 baht. Pha Phi Du became enraged and beat Pha Tulu with his equipment. The elephant then retaliated with his tusks, stomping on the mahout until he died. Continued …

Fears over Fukushima seafood rise

The Thailand Consumers Council (TCC) is urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Fisheries to tighten measures on imported seafood from Japan after several countries banned the products following the release of treated radioactive water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant.

TCC official Panuchot Tongyang yesterday said China, Hong Kong and South Korea have suspended imports of Japanese seafood, including live sea animals, frozen and dried seafood, sea salt and seaweed due to concerns about contamination. Continued …

Dr Pakpilai Thavisin: From anti-aging pioneer to Thailand’s new First Lady

Dr. Pakpilai Thavisin is feeling heat from the media spotlight after her husband Srettha Thavisin became Thailand’s 30th prime minister. But this is far from her first taste of fame.

With her high-flying career and fashionable dress sense, Pakpilai has been a favorite subject of gossip columns for years. She has also aired her views in media interviews. Continued … 

Business operators against 600-baht wage hike policy

The Pheu Thai-led government intends to press ahead with its election promise to raise the minimum wage to 600 baht within 4 years from the current range of 328-354 baht per day introduced in October 2022.

The party first introduced what is regarded as a populist policy back in 2011, when it launched the nationwide minimum wage policy of 300 baht per day. Then, like now, the private sector made its opposition known, citing political interference and uneven investment distribution nationwide. Continued …

Thai finance ministry has no immediate plan to increase VAT to 10%

The Ministry of Finance has no policy to increase value-added tax from 7% to 10%, to generate more revenue to fund old age pensions, according to Pornchai Theeravet, director of the Fiscal Policy Office and spokesman for the ministry.

His remark is in response to a report that the National Economic and Social Development Council has proposed several measures to increase support for pensioners, including a proposed increase in the rate of VAT. Continued …

Thailand running out of jobs for university graduates, report shows

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has warned that new university graduates may find it tough to get jobs, as demand is on the decline.

This warning came in a recent report released by the agency, which said that new university graduates may be hired at lower salaries or jobs may be given to those with lower qualifications. Continued …

Thailand’s Weed Industry Is Poised to Grow Fast

In Bangkok these days, it’s hard not to notice the weed dispensaries catering to tourists that have multiplied since the government decriminalized the drug last year.

Many of them take advantage of lax regulations to openly sell visitors dried marijuana flowers that have been imported illegally from Canada or the United States. On a recent afternoon, one shop advertised its pungent offerings — weed strains with names like “Ice Cream Cake” and “Lemon Cookies” — as “California’s finest.” Continued …

PM to look into extending tourist visas to 90 days

The new government will consider extending tourist visa validities from 30 days to 90 days and the easing of immigration procedures, to make them more convenient for foreign tourists, said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, responding to call from tourism business operators for the government to boost the tourism industry.

He also said, however, that the proposal from some tourism business operators for the government to exempt entry visas for tourists from China, India and Russia is a different issue, which has security implications and has to be considered carefully. Continued …

Surat Thani governor snarls at Thai Smile’s flight axe plan

The governor of Surat Thani has asked Thai Smile Airways not to cease its flight services to the southern province in order to protect its tourism.

Gov. Wichawut Jinto said on Sunday that people earlier complained to him that Thai Smile Airways would stop its flight services on Oct. 1. Continued …

Phuket’s night-life venues ask new PM to let them to stay open until 4am

Night entertainment operators in Phuket have proposed that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin allow their venues on Patong Beach to stay open until 4am, instead of the current 1am.

Weerawit Kruasombat, president of the entertainment business operators association on Patong Beach, said Saturday that the proposal was submitted to Srettha during yesterday’s meeting between the prime minister and representatives of tourism-related business. Continued …

U-Tapao Airport Nightspots Receive Green Light to Operate 24 Hours a Day

The Thai government has clarified that the recent permission granted for entertainment venues to operate around the clock in the U-Tapao International Airport & Eastern Airport City Project does not extend to nearby areas such as Pattaya and Rayong.

Deputy government spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul clarified this on Sunday, emphasizing that the Interior Ministry’s recent notice in the Royal Gazette applied exclusively to the specified locations within the U-Tapao airport complex. Continued …

Pattaya Speedboat Operators in Wild Brawl Arguing Over Tourists

Two groups of rival speedboat operators in Pattaya engaged in a widely filmed and shared viral fistfight over who would transport a group of tourists on Saturday evening.

The fight broke out at 5 PM at Bali Hai Pier, panicking numerous tourists who were waiting to board a ride to Koh Larn. Continued …

Chinese Tourist Shortfall Takes Toll on Pattaya’s Tourism Sector

The tourism sector in Pattaya is grappling with a waning number of Chinese tourists due to current strict visa regulations and a shortage of flight options.

Boonanan Pattanasin, the president of the Pattaya Business and Tourism Assn. (PBTA), revealed that the current tourism situation in Pattaya is predominantly centered on Chinese and Indian tourists. However, the number of Chinese tourists has significantly declined in recent months, hindering the city’s full recovery. Continued …

5 Unknown Islands In Thailand To Experience Paradise Without The Crowds

There’s the picture-perfect beach vacation we all dream of. White sand beneath your feet, an ice-cold drink in your hand, and the quiet sounds of the palm trees blowing in the wind and turquoise waves crashing on the shore. Total tranquility.

Then, there’s the beach vacation we actually get. Somehow, fighting for overpriced beach chairs at overcrowded beaches amid blaring music, screaming children, and unruly tourists never live up to the seaside serenity you had in mind. Continued …

What’s really killing historical UK pubs

When the Crown and Anchor pub in Llanidloes in mid-Wales was built, there was a different Charles on the throne, America was a British colony and France still had a king. 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, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Aug 26

Today’s news: PKK community fights factory stench/Online vehicle registration implemented/Heavy rainfall expected/Thailand’s crashing birthrate and aging society/Cannabis network pushes for home-grown weed/Exports decline again/Bt6 billion on Thai EV factories/New PM focused on tourism/Pattaya’s Walking Street wireless/New airport for Phangnga?/Phuket opts for EV buses/Thai AirAsia plans Japan expansion/24-hour opening for eastern nightspots/Where to find Wellness Cuisine in Thailand/

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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PKK community fights factory stench, faces relocation woes

For years, the residents of the Ban Thammarat community in Prachuap Khiri Khan have been tormented by the foul odor emitted by the wastewater from a local rubber factory. Despite their pleas for regular inspections and serious action toward wastewater management, the issue remains unresolved, forcing some to relocate.

The community, located in Area 5, has long complained about the factory, which purchases rubber waste and discharges untreated wastewater onto personal land. The stench has permeated the area, affecting their daily lives. Continued …

Thailand shifts gears with online vehicle registration

The Thai government has launched an online vehicle registration service, providing a more convenient and time-saving option for the public. This move aligns with the government’s digital transformation policy, which aims to facilitate access to public services. As a result, citizens can now book a single number plate for each vehicle.

Ratchada Thanadirek, deputy government spokesperson, highlighted that this initiative is part of the government’s broader endeavor to promote digital transformation in public sector organizations. The policy, led by former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, focuses on digitalization to streamline processes and enhance service delivery. Continued …

Thailand braces for heavy rainfall

The Thai Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rainfall across various regions of the country, brought about by low atmospheric pressure near the Vietnamese upper shore and the southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and Thailand.

Thailand continues to experience thunderstorms, with heavy rain in certain parts of the northeast, and central regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity. Citizens in the upper northeastern region are advised to be cautious of heavy and accumulated rainfall, potentially leading to flooding. Continued …

Does crashing birthrate and aging society spell doom for Thailand?

The median age in Thailand currently stands at 40 years and two months, far older than the world average of 30 years and five months. This startling fact suggests that if Thailand fails to take action now, it could rapidly be overwhelmed by problems related to its aging society.

Thailand’s population is on course to shrink by at least 50% by 2100, according to the Social Development and Human Security Ministry. Continued …

Cannabis network pushes for home-grown weed, import ban

Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network is seeking 10,000 names to petition parliament to continue its reading of the Cannabis-Hemp Act, which would allow individuals to grow weed at home and ban the import of cannabis products for five years.

Prasitchai Nunual, the network leader, said yesterday the act was initially composed of 95 sections, but parliament’s reading only reached Section 17 due to a change of government. Continued …

Exports decline for 10th straight month

The value of Thai exports dropped for a 10th consecutive month in July, and by more than forecast, mainly because global commodity prices have fallen back from the highs reached last year in the first few months of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Weak global demand has been exacerbated by high interest rates and tougher lending practices, resulting in a deceleration of consumer spending, said Keerati Rushchano, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Commerce. Continued …

Aion to spend Bt6 billion on Thai EV factories

Aion Automobile Manufacturing (Thailand), a subsidiary of Guangzhou Automobile Corp. (GAC), the second-largest electric vehicle (EV) seller in China, plans to spend 6 billion baht building EV and battery factories in Thailand over 3-5 years, using the country as its new production and export base.

“We are considering the location for the factories, as well as production capacity to serve both domestic and overseas markets,” said Ocean Ma, managing director of Aion Automobile Manufacturing and Aion Automobile Sales (Thailand). Continued …

New government focused on boosting tourism to stimulate economy: new PM

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin flew to the island province of Phuket on Friday to highlight its significance as a major money-maker for Thailand’s tourism industry. It was his first provincial trip as the leader of Thailand’s new government in the making.

“The Pheu Thai Party sees tourism as the best way to stimulate the economy in the short term,” Srettha told reporters after arriving at the Phuket International Airport. Continued …

Pattaya’s Walking Street Sheds Its Power Poles

Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches inspected Walking Street in South Pattaya on Friday after the tourist attraction street underwent a modern upgrade to remove its unsightly power poles.

Poramase, along with other city officials, participated in the ceremony to open Walking Street in South Pattaya following the success of the major dismantling project of utility poles on the street. Continued …

Phangnga tourism council proposes new airport

A proposal for a new airport in Phangnga, which could potentially surpass Phuket as the south’s aviation hub, will be presented to the new prime minister by tourism operators in the Andaman provinces.

The president of the Tourism Council of Phangnga, Pongsakorn Ketprapakorn, shared that the new airport’s necessity stems from the rapid growth in tourist demand for the south post-pandemic and the fact that expansion at Phuket airports has reached its limit. Continued …

Phuket earmarks 156 million baht for 24 EV buses and charging stations

The Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization (PPAO) confirmed the allocation of 156 million baht (US$4.7 million) from this year’s budget for the purchase of 24 electric vehicle (EV) buses. These air-conditioned buses, each with a capacity of 21 seats, are set to serve three public routes across the province.

The announcement was made during a Phuket provincial land traffic subcommittee meeting, presided over by Vice Gov. Amnuay Pinsuwan. The meeting saw the participation of Phuket City Deputy Mayor Prasit Sinsaowapak and leaders from various government organizations. Continued …

 

Thai AirAsia targets 40% domestic market, plans Japan expansion

Thai AirAsia, a leading low-cost airline, has set a goal to command 40% of the passenger market share domestically by the close of 2023. This comes as the airline intends to introduce two additional routes in Japan in the upcoming year.

Santisuk Klongchaiya, the chief executive of Thai AirAsia, mentioned that the airline’s market share in the first half of the current year was 37%, a noticeable increase from the 33% recorded prior to the pandemic. He attributed this growth to the performance of domestic routes, with an average load factor of 94% on 32 routes leading to 21 provinces and eight cross-regional routes. Continued … 

Eastern Aviation City nightspots can remain open around the clock

In a bid to promote tourism and stimulate the local economy of the Eastern Economic Corridor area, specifically the Eastern Aviation City in Rayong province, entertainment venues located in the project can open 24 hours a day.

The Royal Gazette website on Friday published the fourth amendment of the Interior Ministerial Regulations on the Entertainment Place Act of 1966, allowing businesses located in Eastern Aviation City to open around the clock. Continued …

Chiva-som Hua Hin

Where to find Wellness Cuisine in Thailand That will Nurture Your Body and Soul

While modern day delicacies are delicious, there could be hidden toxins in your food that stimulate inflammation and cause discomfort to your gut. Wellness cuisine aims to use only the freshest and natural ingredients, in order to cook dishes that don’t only fulfill your cravings but also detox and nourish the body.

As the leading destination for wellness leisure, Thailand has several wellness retreats and wellness restaurants that are worth a visit. 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