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Thailand Experience: A Life Changing Move/Today’s news: Heavy rain for 5 days/Flooding persists/Nong Khai downtown is flooded again/Solutions to public health ‘crisis’/Python Unlikely to Return/’Moo Deng the hippo’ to be trademarked/Moo Deng Is the Moment/Bangkok to hold car free day/Cannabis chaos/Ex-Arsenal Player Arrested for Cannabis Smuggle/Economy: Baht’s rally threatens tourism, exports/Bangkok Restricts Street Vending/Looser real estate lending rules/Tax exemption for businesses affected by flooding/Thailand to borrow 2.59 trillion baht/Digital Wallets: Exploring the Future/Bt13.4-billion Chonburi smart AC factory/Cheer big US rate cut/Tourism: Keen on reviving co-payment scheme/‘Digital nomad’ visa promotion/6-country tourist visa planned/37 years career in Thai tourism/Thailand Experience: Sukhothai launches durian festival/Climate Thailand: Air pollution driving a real estate/Plans to achieve net-zero emissions/WWF Thailand teams up with food delivery platforms/Reforestation can help Thailand/Grab’s carbon offset journey/Bolt’s EV Usage Soars/International/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

A Life Changing Move to Rural Thailand

Charissa Enget needed to find an engineering course she could afford. She found one in rural Thailand, where she got a scholarship and living costs were low. It took her six months to learn the language so she could communicate with fellow students, make friends, and travel round the country at weekends.

“I think living abroad is a lot different from traveling abroad, just because you really get to know the people and experience the culture, and it changes your way of thinking a lot more. Thailand changed the way I interact with people in a lot of ways, and I feel bonded to Thailand for the rest of my life. It really changed the way I want to live my life, and I’ll never stop loving Thailand or traveling back there as much as I can.”

After two years, she decided that Thailand would always be a part of her life. Today, she leads trips to share her adventures and introduce American women to her friends and local families. Continued …

Tropical storm Soulik to hit Thailand with heavy rain for 5 days

Tropical storm Soulik over central Vietnam is forecast to bring isolated heavy to very heavy rain to several parts of Thailand for the next five days, the Thai Meteorological Department said on Thursday.

The department said that the storm developed from a tropical depression and was centered about 90 kilometers southeast of the Quang Tri coast with sustained winds of about 65 kilometers per hour. Continued …

Flooding persists in six provinces

Floods remain in six provinces in the north, the northeast, the Central Plains and the south, affecting more than 33,000 families.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported on Thursday that flooding continued in Chiang Rai and Phitsanulok provinces in the north; Nong Khai and Bueng Kan in the northeast; Ayutthaya in the Central Plains; and Satun in the south. The situation affected 33,667 households. Continued …

Barely a day after recovering, Nong Khai downtown is flooded again

Heavy downpour throughout Wednesday night again caused flooding in the downtown area of Nong Khai’s Muang district, barely a day after the previous bout of flooding had cleared.

Rains measuring 78.1 millimeters resulted in 40 centimeters of water logging on the main Prachak Silpakhom Road that runs through the business zone in the heart of Nong Khai. Continued …

Doctors propose solutions to public health ‘crisis’

A doctors’ group on Thursday submitted a petition to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, proposing three measures to address the ongoing crisis in the public health system.

The group, led by Clinical Professor Emeritus Dr. Amnaj Kussalanan, a former president of the Medical Council of Thailand, submitted the petition at the Ministry of Public Health, where it was accepted by Dr. Watchai Charoonwattana, an adviser to minister Somsak Thepsutin. Continued …

Python Unlikely to Return After Attack, Says Wildlife Specialist

Nick Wildlife, a snake expert, points out that the case of a 4-meter-long python constricting a 64-year-old woman on Tuesday night, was not a hunt for prey but an act of self-defense. He also advised on survival techniques when constricted by a python.

Anirut Chomngam, also known as Nick Wildlife, head of the Venomous animal toxicology team, posted a video on his YouTube channel “Nick Wildlife” to explain this case. After interviewing Ms. Arom, the victim who was attacked and constricted by the snake for over two hours, he hypothesized that this large snake wasn’t hunting her as prey, but was defending itself. Continued …

‘Moo Deng the hippo’ to be trademarked, patented

Only a month after Thailand’s adorable baby hippo Moo Deng was unveiled on Facebook, her fame became unstoppable both domestically and internationally.

Zookeeper Atthapon Nundee has been posting cute moments of the animals in his care for about five years. He never imagined Khao Kheow Open Zoo’s newborn pygmy hippo would become an internet megastar within weeks. Continued …

Moo Deng Is the Moment

At the height of X’s popularity (really, back when it was still Twitter), it seemed like we couldn’t get through a week without the advent of some new viral, internet-friendly animal, from the Cincinnati Zoo’s Fiona the Hippo (she takes showers, guys!) to Koko, arguably the world’s most iconic gorilla.

Unfortunately, genuinely fun animal content has really taken a hit online lately, which might explain why the arrival of Thai pygmy hippo Moo Deng has captivated the world. Below, find everything you need to know about Moo Deng, the girl we all wish we could be. Continued …

Bangkok to hold car free day Sunday

Bangkok is revving up for Car Free Day this weekend on Banthat Thong Road, offering a vehicle-free zone for people to cruise around and soak up various activities. The event, dubbed Bangkok Car Free 2024: Connecting for Life, aligns with the annual World Car Free Day on Sept. 22.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt on Friday will chat about a transportation project designed to give city dwellers more ways to motor around town. This project champions the First Mile-Last Mile initiative, pushing public transport over personal cars and aiming to shift gears on how Bangkok commutes. Continued …

Cannabis chaos: Thailand’s weed rules you can’t afford to break

Thailand’s cannabis scene is about to get a whole lot more official but there are big consequences for those who don’t play by the rules. From Jan. 1, 2025, consumers will still have access to the country’s wide variety of dry flowers but breaking key regulations could land you in hot water.

The rules are simple: no smoking in public, no extracts with more than 2% THC without permission, and no use for anyone under 20, pregnant, or breastfeeding. Although these guidelines have existed for a year, enforcement is about to get serious. Violate them and you could be slapped with hefty fines or even spend a year behind bars. Continued …

Ex-Arsenal Player Arrested for $800K Cannabis Smuggle from Thailand

A soccer player who once appeared for Arsenal in the Champions League has been charged in connection with trying to smuggle cannabis worth 600,000 pounds ($800,000) through a British airport.

Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, who currently plays for Scottish second-tier team Greenock Morton, was arrested at his home near Glasgow early Wednesday, the Press Association agency reported Thursday. Continued …

Baht’s biggest rally since 1998 threatens tourism, exports

Thailand’s baht is on course for its biggest quarterly gain since the Asian financial crisis, threatening to derail a recovery in the nation’s key tourism and export industries.

The currency’s 10% surge against the dollar since the end of June, the most since the first quarter of 1998, has prompted calls from the tourism and hotel sectors, and business chambers to temper the rally. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul this week urged the Bank of Thailand (BoT) to take steps to rein in the currency and stem its volatility. Continued …

Bangkok Restricts Street Vending to Low-Income Thais

In a response that has stirred both applause and dissent, new regulations from Bangkok city officials state that only low-income Thais can now set up street vendor stalls. Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt signed the new rules, which exclude migrant workers from participating in one of the city’s most vibrant sectors.

These controversial regulations, enacted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), mandate that eligible vendors must be Thai nationals with specific economic standings. To qualify, vendors must possess government welfare cards, be paying off National Housing Authority properties, and receive welfare allowances from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Crucially, their net income after business expenses must not exceed 300,000 baht annually. Continued …

Condo group calls for looser real estate lending rules

The government is advised to ease lending restrictions and reduce interest rates as newly completed condo units worth more than 86 billion baht are awaiting transfer in the fourth quarter, which could lift both the property sector and the entire economy, says the Thai Condominium Assn.

Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the association, said the transfer value in the fourth quarter alone could be equivalent to the total value from the first three quarters combined. Continued …

FTI proposes corporate tax exemption for businesses affected by flooding

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has proposed to the government that it make an exemption from paying corporate income tax, extends the period for the submission of tax returns and exempts import tariffs on machinery for businesses hardest hit by the flooding.

FTI President Kriangkrai Thiennukul said the industrial confidence index for August was 87.7, which was lower than the preceding month, due mainly to a slowdown in demand, particularly for durable goods like automobiles. Continued …

Thailand to borrow 2.59 trillion baht for 2025 budget

The government of Thailand announced a borrowing plan of 2.59 trillion baht for the 2025 fiscal year, assuring that this will not hinder the private sector’s fundraising efforts, a Ministry of Finance official stated yesterday.

Jindarat Viriyataveekul, public debt adviser at the ministry, said the debt plan, which begins on Oct. 1, should not cause concern in the markets. She explained that approximately 1.1 trillion baht (US$33 billion) would be new borrowing primarily to cover the budget deficit, with the remainder designated for refinancing and restructuring existing debt. Continued …

Digital Wallets: Exploring the Future of Financial Transactions

The Financial Times recently highlighted Thailand’s highly anticipated digital wallet stipend scheme for eligible citizens, suggesting that the program offers a glimpse into the future of money.

Chai Wacharonke, a Thai government spokesperson, noted that the article recognized the program as part of a broader strategy aimed at boosting household consumption and GDP. However, critics argue that the program does not fully address deeper economic issues, such as low investment. Continued …

Haier’s Bt13.4-billion Chonburi smart AC factory approved

The Board of Investment (BOI) has agreed to grant privileges for a Chinese manufacturer Haier Appliance Manufacture (Thailand) Co. to invest 13.4 billion baht in building a factory in Chonburi to produce smart air conditioners for export.

Under the project, Haier will invest 13.4 billion baht in building a new factory covering a 200-rai plot in the WHA Eastern Seaboard 3 industrial estate in Chonburi. The factory should have the capacity to manufacture 6 million smart air conditioners per year. Continued …

Asian markets cheer big US rate cut

Asian stocks surged on Thursday after the Federal Reserve made its first interest rate cut in four years a big one, creating what analysts say should be a path to a soft landing for the U.S. economy.

The dollar gained and long-dated bond yields rose as markets around the world welcomed the long-awaited action by the U.S. central bank, which cut its benchmark rate by 50 basis points to a range of 4.75% to 5.00%. Continued …

Hotel operators keen on reviving co-payment scheme

Hotel operators have applauded the idea of reviving the co-payment scheme for hotel expenses, as it could help encourage domestic purchasing, while related stakeholders raised concerns over 1,400 unresolved fraud cases from previous phases of the scheme.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said he discussed this issue with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Wednesday, and the premier agreed in principle to reintroduce this stimulus program, which was initiated during the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration. Continued …

‘Digital nomad’ visa promotion stepped up

The government is stepping up the promotion of its new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) to attract foreign nationals who wish to work while traveling in Thailand, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Maris said his ministry played a key role in the promotion of the DTV, which is expected to help generate revenue for the country. Continued …

New 6-country tourist visa planned by Foreign Ministry

Minister of Foreign Affairs Maris Sangiampongsa on Thursday announced plans for a new visa regime that would allow access to Thailand and its five neighboring countries, such as Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The minister emphasized that the ministry was working with the government to boost the country’s economy.

At the same time, he insisted that Thailand would remain a “neutral” player in geopolitics. The latter commitment is increasingly being examined as tensions between China and the United States in the region have grown substantially. Continued …

Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya’s 37 years career in Thai tourism

As Khun Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya prepares to retire after an illustrious 37-year career with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), his name has become synonymous with the international marketing of Thailand. Over 37 years, he has witnessed the evolution and resilience of Thai tourism. In a candid conversation, Khun Chattan reflects on his journey and the profound transformations he has witnessed in both Thailand and global tourism.

“Thailand is resilient and always bounces back after a crisis,” Khun Chattan begins, as he recalls the various highs and lows that have shaped the industry. From the Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s, to the more recent challenges of the global pandemic, Thailand has continually redefined its position as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. For Khun Chattan, the essence of Thailand’s appeal lies not only in its landscapes or beaches but in its people. Continued …

Sukhothai launches durian festival with Monthong at just 1 baht

Sukhothai has kicked off a durian festival, offering special promotions with 200 queues per day for the coveted Monthong durian at just 1 baht per fruit. Customers are flocking to take advantage of the deals and carry home the prized fruit.

Yesterday in front of the Big C department store in Ban Kluai, Mueang district, Sukhothai province, a special festival featuring Monthong durians sold at affordable prices ranging from 99 to 129 baht per kilogram is drawing huge crowds. Continued …

How air pollution is driving a real estate transformation in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the undisputed jewels in Thailand’s tourism crown. On the doorstep of some of the country’s most stunning nature, the idyllic northern city beckons visitors with its laidback blend of ancient temples, legendary Lanna cuisine, and lively arts and music scene.

But then March rolls around, and the smog rolls in. Every year, for about two months, Chiang Mai is shrouded in pollution, driving tourists away while long-suffering residents endure the poor living conditions. This pollution is exacerbated by the city’s location in a valley, which traps the smoke from agricultural burning in the region. Continued …

Three corporate giants reveal plans to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050

Three large corporations unveiled their investment plans to achieve their net-zero carbon emission goal during the event “60 Years Of Excellence” at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center on Wednesday.

Several companies are working on reducing their carbon footprint to mitigate the impact of climate change and drive Thailand’s carbon neutrality and net-zero carbon emission goals by 2050 and 2065, respectively. Continued …

WWF Thailand teams up with food delivery platforms for plastic reduction

The World Wide Fund for Nature Thailand (WWF Thailand) has joined forces with LINE MAN Wongnai and Foodpanda, to promote plastic reduction in the food delivery industry. Operating under the “Reduce-Increase-Exchange” concept, the initiative, piloted in four cities in southern Thailand, aims to expand its impact and drive nationwide change.

Rattaphon Pitakthepsombat, deputy director of conservation, WWF Thailand, said, “Plastic waste is a global issue that affects all of our lives. Every year, 430 million tons of plastic are produced worldwide. In Thailand, 75% of plastic waste, or around 1.5 million tons annually, is discarded and has not been circulated in the system, posing a risk of leakage into nature and remaining in the oceans for hundreds of years.” Continued …

Reforestation can help Thailand honor Paris climate commitment

Reforestation is one solution for Thailand to meet its climate change pledge, experts said at the “Mae Fah Luang Sustainability Forum 2024” at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok on Tuesday.

Signed in 2016, the Paris Agreement’s goal is to confine the rise in global surface temperature to not above 1.5 degrees Celsius of the pre-industrial levels by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and reach net zero by 2050. Continued …

Planting seeds of sustainability: Grab’s carbon offset journey

As the specter of global boiling looms large, innovative partnerships offer a beacon of hope. Grab, a leading superapp in Southeast Asia, and EcoMatcher, a technology-driven tree-planting platform, have forged an alliance in an effort to combat climate change.

By combining cutting-edge technology with transparency and community engagement, they are planting the seeds of a greener and more resilient future. Continued …

Bolt’s EV Usage Soars as Thailand Goes Green

Ride-hailing company Bolt has reported a significant increase in the use of electric vehicles (EVs) on its platform. The announcement comes as the country celebrates World Car Free Day and demonstrates a growing preference for emission-free mobility options among Thai commuters.

According to data released by Bolt, its green category, which features electric and hybrid vehicles, has seen a 257.5% increase in active EV cars. These eco-friendly vehicles have collectively traveled over 4.51 million kilometers – equivalent to approximately 112 trips around the Earth’s equator. Continued …

Southern African Nations Turn to Elephant Culling Amid Drought to Feed Hungry Communities

In response to a crippling drought, Zimbabwe and Namibia have announced plans to slaughter hundreds of wild elephants and other animals to provide much-needed food for their struggling citizens. The devastating drought, worsened by the El Niño weather phenomenon, has left many communities in these southern African countries facing severe hunger. Continued …