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Friday’s news-March 20

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  • Hospitality Classic to support Hua Hin Heroes/Thailand is still an expat favorite/Parliament elects Anutin Prime Minister/Thai gold tumbles 3,400 baht/Netherlands Embassy to Relocate/Embassy sites and Bangkok’s property market
  • THE IRAN WAR: Baht may fall to 35 per dollar/Consumer goods prices to rise soon/Time to rethink what needs to be done/Allies vow to protect Hormuz shipping/US, Israel seek to ease concerns/Fuel shortages continue/Energy woes dent Songkran/Penalties for gas gouging/Impacts of Iran war on Southeast Asia
  • TOURISM: 6 reasons you can be denied entry/War, oil and the future of tourism/Foreigner Criticizes Thai Tourism
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand Cat Lovers Fair/Red ant eggs sell at 500 baht a kilo
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Hat Yai’s floods are a warning/EV boom erases oil need/Electric boat taxi service
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hospitality Classic tees off at Royal Lakeside June 12 to support Hua Hin Heroes

Fore Management Group has announced the inaugural Misthos Group Hospitality Classic, a one-day charity golf tournament to be held at Royal Lakeside Golf Club on June 12, with proceeds supporting Hua Hin Heroes Foundation.

The event will be played in a four-man team Texas Scramble format and is expected to attract more than 120 expat golfers living in Thailand, including individual players and corporate teams. Fore Management Group said 100% of funds raised on the day will be donated to Hua Hin Heroes. Continued … 

Thailand is still an expat favorite, only if you play by the new rules

Thailand ranked fourth in the InterNations Expat Insider survey in 2025, its best result ever, thus reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most appealing places for foreigners to live. But in the same period, the cost of living here rose, the tax rules changed, and informal visa workarounds have become far harder to rely on.

Thailand hasn’t become a worse place to live, it merely has become a more selective one. The country that housed many long-term expats, living through a patchwork of gray-area arrangements, has made a deliberate shift toward formal pathways, targeted incentives, and stricter enforcement. Continued … 

Parliament elects Anutin as Thailand’s 32nd Prime Minister

Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul was elected Thailand’s 32nd prime minister (PM) during a Parliamentary vote held yesterday. Anutin previously served as PM after former PM Partongtar Shinawatra was removed from office over a leaked phone conversation with Hun Sen.

He later announced the dissolution of Parliament on Dec. 11 last year, leading to the General Election on Febr. 8 this year. Anutin and Bhumjaithai Party secured victory in the election. Ahead of today’s prime ministerial vote, Bhumjaithai Party announced the formation of a coalition government with 16 other political parties, including the Pheu Thai Party. Continued … 

Thai gold tumbles 3,400 baht

Thailand’s gold market came under heavy pressure yesterday, with the Gold Traders Assn. revising prices 53 times during the day before bullion closed sharply lower, reflecting a steep global sell-off in the precious metal.

By the close, local gold prices had dropped by 3,400 baht from the previous day. Gold bullion was quoted at 72,900 baht per baht-weight for buying and 73,100 baht for selling, while gold ornaments were quoted at 71,449.08 baht for buying and 73,900 baht for selling. Spot gold was last reported at US$4,707 an ounce. Continued … 

Netherlands Embassy in Thailand to Relocate to Dusit Central Park in August

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Thailand will relocate to Dusit Central Park in Bangkok in August, without disrupting consular services for Dutch citizens and businesses across Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.

The announcement was made by Ambassador Remco Johannes van Wijngaarden, ensuring that emergency consular assistance will remain available during the move. The new location is within Bangkok’s central business district and will provide convenient access through private and public transportation. Continued … 

How former embassy sites helped reshape Bangkok’s prime property market

Embassy land in Thailand has become a prime target for investors, not only because many plots are located in high-potential central business districts, but also because they carry a historical legacy for future generations to remember. In recent years, several embassy land sales in Thailand have significantly boosted the value of surrounding areas.

Surachet Kongcheep, head of research and consultancy at Cushman & Wakefield Thailand, said that looking back at embassy sites that have already been sold and redeveloped into major projects in the city center, the trend began in 2007. Continued … 

Baht may fall to 35 per dollar if war persists

The baht is expected to weaken to 34-35 to the US dollar if the Middle East conflict drags on for two months, pushing oil prices above US$100 per barrel, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).

K-Research views a prolonged two-month conflict as the most likely scenario. Under this outlook, global crude oil prices would rise beyond $100 per barrel, putting downward pressure on the baht and increasing currency volatility, said Burin Adulwattana, the center’s chief economist. Continued … 

Consumer goods prices to rise soon as production costs soar

Major consumer product manufacturers and distributors are warning customers of possible price increases in April due to the Middle East war disrupting the oil supply chain.

In letters to customers, companies cited the war’s impact on the oil-related supply chain, resulting in difficulty sourcing raw materials, decreased packaging availability, and rising prices, higher transport costs, and delivery delays. Continued … 

As the war against Iran is felt economically in Thailand, it’s time to rethink what needs to be done

The psychological irony of telling the public not to worry about Thailand running out of petrol and other forms of energy — due to the ongoing, unjust war by Israel and the United States against Iran — is that people feel even more uncertain and panicked by the “reassurance”. By simply following the news, they can conclude that the Strait of Hormuz is effectively choking global fuel supplies due to the conflict and, by extension, the world econom.

Whether you like it or not, and regardless of which side you root for in the Middle East, the global economic impact is undeniable and increasingly reverberating around the world. This includes Thailand, where several provinces report long queues at petrol stations and acute fuel shortages. Continued … 

Allies vow to protect Hormuz shipping, urge Iran to halt attacks

The leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, and Canada have declared their readiness to support appropriate efforts to ensure the safe passage of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, while urging Iran to halt attacks on vessels and energy infrastructure.

The leaders condemned what they described as recent Iranian attacks on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, attacks on civilian infrastructure including oil and gas installations, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces. Continued … 

Oil declines as US, Israel seek to ease concerns over Iran war

Oil dropped from its highest close since July 2022, as the leaders of the United States and Israel sought to reassure investors rattled by damage to major Persian Gulf energy facilities.

Brent crude fell toward $107 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate for May was around $94. President Donald Trump told reporters he’s “not putting troops anywhere” after being asked about the possibility of deploying US ground forces, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would refrain from more attacks on Iranian energy facilities. Continued … 

Fuel shortages continue despite adequate reserves

Fuel remains scarce at many service stations across Thailand, even though reserves are more than adequate, amid continuing problems with delivery and unusually high demand, officials said yesterday.

The Ministry of Energy surveyed 2,649 service stations from Sunday to Tuesday and found that 1,912 had completely or nearly run out of some kinds of fuel. The survey found 241 stations were temporarily closed, while 496 remained fully open. Continued … 

Energy woes dent Songkran travel sentiment

Tourism operators are increasingly concerned about declining energy confidence, fearing it could dampen their high expectations for the upcoming Songkran holiday.

Wasuchet Sophonsathien, adviser to the Thai Transportation Operators Assn., said that in the short term rising fuel prices could affect next month’s Songkran holiday. Some tourists have already booked cross-provincial trips, but many have yet to decide, as they are monitoring fuel prices until they feel more confident. Continued … 

Penalties vowed for gas gouging

Caretaker energy minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon has vowed to take action against petrol station operators who charge prices that exceed government-regulated, subsidized levels, while pledging to intensify efforts to ensure smooth oil distribution nationwide.

He told the public yesterday they will be able to buy oil at affordable prices, and the nation will have sufficient fuel for transport and business. “Officials found oil retailers in some areas sell fuel at high prices, claiming they do not receive subsidies from the government,” said Auttapol. Continued … 

Impacts of Iran war on Southeast Asia

For the most part, Southeast Asia as a region has taken a neutral stance toward the joint attack between the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Even the Philippines and Thailand, two formal US treaty allies, have distanced themselves, calling for restraint and de-escalation.

As Southeast Asia is trade- and export-dependent, the war will have severe repercussions for the region as oil prices rise and international commerce is disrupted. The longer the war goes on, the more regional economies will suffer. Continued … 

6 reasons you can be denied entry into Thailand

Thailand has significantly tightened its border controls since 2024, and what used to be casual entry procedures have become strict enforcement checkpoints. While most travelers enter without issues, understanding what can get you denied entry into Thailand and detained at the airport is essential for anyone planning a trip to the kingdom.

The legal framework comes from the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979), specifically Section 12, which lists 11 grounds for refusing entry. Immigration officers have broad discretion to deny entry if they believe you fall under any prohibited category. Here are the six most common reasons travelers face denial, detention, and deportation. Continued … 

Shockwaves in Asia: War, oil and the future of tourism

Global power shifts do not remain confined to geopolitics. They travel quickly, and often invisibly, through economic systems. For Asia, and particularly for Thailand, the consequences of the Gulf War are immediate. The most direct transmission channel is energy.

Any sustained disruption in Middle Eastern supply routes pushes oil prices higher. This feeds directly into aviation fuel costs, which in turn drives airfares upward. The result is predictable. Long-haul travel demand weakens, particularly from Europe, where consumers are already sensitive to economic uncertainty. Continued … 

Foreign Tourist Criticizes Thai Tourism as Overrated

A foreign tourist has publicly criticized Thai tourism in a video, labeling the country “overrated” and pointing to high accommodation costs, poor food hygiene, crowded attractions, and unfriendly locals. The video highlights her two-week experience in Thailand, which she felt was unlike positive reviews she had read before her visit.

She compared Thailand unfavorably with other Asian destinations, noting that even the cheapest hostel was priced at 600 baht per night, which she found expensive for a backpacker. She was also critical of Thai food, citing instances where her friends suffered from food poisoning. She expressed dissatisfaction with the food, describing it as sweet, oily, and causing her to feel bloated. Continued … 

Thailand Cat Lovers Fair is back at Muang Thong Thani

A troupe of Thailand’s ancient cat breeds will take center stage during Thailand Cat Lovers Fair 2026, which will kick off on March 27 and run daily from 10 am to 8 pm until March 29. The venue is Bangkok’s Impact Exhibition Hall 5, Muang Thong Thani.

The fair will transform over 5,000m² space into a “Meow Land” where visitors will be amazed by the beauty of legendary and rarely-seen ancient Thai cats, namely the lotus petal-colored cat – an auspicious and extremely rare-colored breed that will make its first appearance in Thailand at the event. Continued … 

Dry season turns profitable as red ant eggs sell at 500 baht a kilo

Villagers in Ban Don Tat Ruea, Non Daeng district, are turning to harvesting red ant eggs as a source of food and income during the dry season, when farming activities have slowed.

Residents in Non Daeng subdistrict said they have been collecting the eggs from nests built by red ants on roadside trees, particularly along the route linking Ban Don Tat Ruea and Ban Don Udom in Don Yai subdistrict. The seasonal activity has drawn many villagers seeking both household consumption and supplementary earnings. Continued …

Hat Yai’s floods are a warning for cities built against nature

Every year, Chinese New Year festivals in southern Thailand’s Hat Yai attract tourists, mostly from neighboring Malaysia, generating a significant proportion of annual income for a city dependent on tourism. But not this year.

Three months after the November 2025 flood disaster, the new year is being celebrated with continuing cleaning, scrubbing mud from people’s homes and shops, and clearing away piles of water-damaged vehicles, furniture and rotting rubbish. More than 40% of hotels, shops, and restaurants remain shut. Some might not reopen at all. Continued … 

EV boom replaces millions of oil barrels

In 2025, electric vehicles displaced between 1.7 million barrels per day (Ember estimate) and 2.3 million barrels per day (BloombergNEF scenario) of oil demand, a volume close to 70% of Iran’s daily exports through the Strait of Hormuz.

This marks a sharp rise from 2024’s 1.3 million barrels per day displacement, driven by expanding charging networks, falling battery costs, and cumulative policy incentives. The oil savings are now visible in refinery balances and fuel-tax receipts across multiple economies. Continued … 

Electric boat taxi service launches on Bangkok’s historic canals

TTA Mariner Co. (TMC) and MuvMi have introduced a new electric boat taxi service for commuting within Bangkok’s old town waterways. Operating daily from 9 am to 5 pm, the current fleet consists of eight electric boats. Each vessel accommodates up to six passengers and travels at an average speed of 12 kilometres per hour.

Following a free trial run that will conclude in mid-April, standard fares will start at 35 baht (US$1.07) per passenger. Prices increase in a tiered structure based on passenger volume and travel distance, with bookings made through the MuvMi application. Continued … 

  • Seven Chinese Arrested in Thai Immigration Sweep – Continued … 
  • Chinese Fugitive Arrested in Bangkok for Fraud, Overstay – Continued … 
  • Taiwanese Fugitive Arrested in Chon Buri Over Drug Charges – Continued …
  • French fugitive nabbed by Immigration Bureau in Phuket – Continued … 

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Monday’s news-Feb 9

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  • Hua Hin’s new municipal building/Food sanitation standards under scrutiny/Provinces search for sand/Mövenpick Hua Hin hotel and spa/Harvest Wine Run Festival returns/Why Thailand’s enforcement is suddenly feeling very real/Bhumjaithai in landslide victory/Shift Toward Nationalism and Monarchy/PM2.5 pollution rises/Thailand’s burned area hits 2.26-million rai/Choosing the right air purifier/Thai–Cambodian Border Residents Brace/Thai Navy Intercepts Cambodian Fishing Boats/Buri Ram’s Airport terminal/Attack Raises Urgent Wildlife Safety Questions
  • ECONOMY: Bhumjaithai’s economic policy roundup/Business urges swift economic action/Bhumjaithai export plan/Infrastructure key for Thai growth/Turning local beef into premium product/U.S. Proposes 25% Tariff on AI Chips/Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant/Thailand as global halal hub
  • TOURISM: Thailand’s tourism reality check/Chiang Mai tourism in flux/Tourists use hands to remove ice
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms/Ayutthaya Travel Guide/Learn how to cook Thai food/Bangkok’s oldest Thai restaurants
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Climate change discourse takes a new turn/Cargo ship sinks near Phuket
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT AND LINKS 

Hua Hin to get new 7-story municipal building

Hua Hin City has approved the design for a new seven-story municipal office building, marking the next stage of a major infrastructure project that will combine a comprehensive medical service hub and a city museum, alongside an expanded disaster-prevention center.

Hua Hin’s current municipal building

The plans were reviewed on Friday during a meeting chaired by Nopporn Wutikul, mayor of Hua Hin. The seven-story building will be constructed behind the current Hua Hin City Municipality office. Once completed, it is expected to serve as an integrated public service center, with a strong focus on health and community facilities. Continued …

Food sanitation standards under scrutiny

Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The meeting of the western central regional network was held on Friday at the Phetchaburi Provincial Public Health Office. The event brought together 120 participants from the restaurant, street food, and fresh market sectors to discuss how to improve food sanitation standards and strengthen cooperation between operators and public health authorities. Continued …

Provinces search for sand as beaches erode

Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.

Officials said beach nourishment is considered one of the most effective non-structural measures for stabilizing shorelines affected by coastal erosion. The approach involves adding sand to restore balance to the coastline and improve beach conditions. Continued …

Mövenpick to open new hotel and spa in Hua Hin

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing for a new hotel and spa in Thailand. The Swiss company will open a new beach resort in Hua Hin.

the new 190-room Mövenpick Resort & Spa, Hua Hin, will be located on the West Coast of the Gulf of Thailand – a leisure destination famous for its pristine beaches, golf courses, and hill hiking. The new hotel will take its inspiration from the Thai beach resort atmosphere and offer landscaped gardens, a luxury spa, two restaurants, a lobby lounge, ballroom, pool, and function rooms. – sportsmanagement.co.uk

Harvest Wine Run Festival returns to Monsoon Valley March 7

The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.

This one-of-a-kind wine run through Monsoon Valley Vineyardis perfect for runners, joggers, walkers, wine lovers, and families. To join the event, complete the registration form. Continued …

Nominees, Bank Accounts, and Border Checks: Why Thailand’s enforcement is suddenly feeling very real

For years, there has been a quiet understanding among many foreign business owners in Thailand – as long as nothing goes wrong, nobody looks too closely. That assumption is starting to crack.

Over the past few days, Phuket has become a very public reminder that Thailand’s authorities are no longer content with rules existing on paper. They are enforcing them on the ground, across agencies, and with consequences that are no longer theoretical. Continued …

Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete

The Bhumjaithai Party of caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has won 174 House constituency seats, followed by the People’s Party with 87, and 58 for the Pheu Thai Party, according to the Election Commission.

The unofficial vote result dashboard of the EC reported the results after 94% of ballots was counted at 3.57 am on Monday. There are 400 House seats for constituency MPs. Continued …

Thailand’s Election Reflects Shift Toward Nationalism and Monarchy

Thailand’s election marked a significant shift as the nation embraced nationalism and the monarchy, moving away from a progressive movement that had gained traction in recent years. The election results are a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape.

The outcome indicates a return to traditional values, with voters favoring candidates who support the monarchy and national identity over progressive reforms. This election result underscores the complex dynamics within Thailand’s political environment, where traditional and modern influences continue to vie for dominance. – binance.com

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PM2.5 pollution rises for fifth day amid illegal agricultural fires

PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.

Montri Kiatphaophan, director of the regional office, said authorities have detected repeated illegal burning of rice stubble and agricultural waste across four provinces under its jurisdiction — Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Buri Ram, and Surin. The burning is being carried out to clear land for new planting cycles, as well as through open fires that have triggered wildfires and widespread smoke, worsening air pollution. Continued …

Thailand’s burned area hits 2.26-million rai in January

Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.

The agency said the scale of burning reflects the severity of the problem and has a clear link to surging PM2.5 levels in many parts of the country, particularly early in the year when weather conditions can trap pollution and limit air circulation. Continued …

Choosing the right air purifier for Thailand’s rising air pollution

As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.

Air purifiers are designed to remove microscopic dust and PM2.5 particles that accumulate indoors, offering immediate relief for those sensitive to respiratory irritation. During peak pollution seasons, when haze blankets major cities, these devices help residents breathe more easily and reduce the strain on their lungs. Continued …

Thai–Cambodian Border Residents Brace for Possible Third Clash

Residents near the Chong Chom border crossing in Surin province say they are preparing for a possible third round of fighting, citing daily provocations by Cambodian troops and rising insecurity, with some households ready to evacuate. The comments came as uncertainty along the Thai–Cambodian border continued to affect local communities and cross-border trade.

The concerns surfaced after reports that the Japanese government had urged Thailand and Cambodia to reopen border crossings quickly, following closures that have reportedly affected several Japanese companies operating in the area. Continued …

Thai Navy Intercepts Cambodian Fishing Boats Near Koh Kood

The Royal Thai Navy’s First Naval Area Command deployed patrol vessels yesterday to intercept approximately 25 Cambodian fishing boats that were found illegally operating in Thai territorial waters south of Koh Kood. The incident prompted an immediate security response, though no arrests were ultimately made as the vessels fled back into Cambodian waters.

According to the First Naval Area Command Operations Center, naval authorities received intelligence reports from maritime sources indicating that a group of Cambodian-flagged fishing boats had crossed into Thai waters and were actively fishing. The vessels were detected around 2 kilometers inside Thai territorial waters, an area under routine naval surveillance. Continued …

Buri Ram’s Airport terminal begins trial run

The Department of Airports (DOA) has held a soft opening of the new passenger terminal at Buri Ram airport, marking a major upgrade to regional transport infrastructure.

The trial service processed passengers from four Thai AirAsia flights on the Don Mueang–Buri Ram route to test systems and readiness before the MotoGP 2026 Grand Prix of Thailand later this month. Continued …

Thailand Park Elephant Attack Raises Urgent Wildlife Safety Questions

A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.

It is tempting to frame this as a single “dangerous elephant” story. However, the bigger picture is about rising pressure where people and wildlife overlap. Thailand’s park agency has reported more than 220 deaths from wild elephants since 2012. At the same time, wild elephant numbers have grown sharply in the past decade, which increases the chances of conflict, especially in places where tourism, roads, campsites, and farms push deeper into elephant territory. Continued …

Bhumjaithai’s economic policy roundup

The Bhumjaithai Party’s economic policy under the “Thailand 10 Plus” strategy focuses on driving Thailand’s economy out of a slowdown, with a targeted “GDP growth of 3% plus”, broken down into the following areas:

  1. Policies for inclusive growth (Inclusive Growth): The Bhumjaithai Party emphasizes supporting people on low incomes and reducing inequality, including Small People Plus (Kon Tua Lek Plus), with its measures to ease household costs and reduce the cost-of-living burden, such as an electricity tariff of below 3 baht per unit for the first 200 units. Continued …

Stability first: Business urges swift economic action

In January, Thailand weathered baht appreciation, volatile gold prices, and the likelihood of a temporary halt in government spending as the country awaits the formation of a new government following yesterday’s election.

Businesses expect that once a new government is formed, the leadership will promptly implement measures to prevent a fragile economy from facing further risks in the aftermath of the power vacuum. Continued …

Bhumjaithai export plan: cut US, China reliance

Bhumjaithai has outlined an export policy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional markets and strengthening SMEs to compete globally.

Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said Thai exports face risks from heavy dependence on the United States and China, which together account for around one-third of Thailand’s total export value. She stressed the need to accelerate expansion into new markets and reduce concentration across markets, exporters, and product categories, while upgrading SMEs and promoting “Made in Thailand” to build a stronger and more sustainable long-term economic base. Continued …

Infrastructure key for Thai growth

Short-term economic stimulus measures introduced by the next government are expected to provide temporary relief, though sustainable growth will depend on continued infrastructure investment and policies that encourage long-term savings, says InnovestX Securities.

Piyasak Manason, head of economic research at InnovestX, said populist stimulus schemes such as cash handouts, debt relief, consumption incentives, tax rebates for domestic tourism, and receipt-based lottery programs may help support consumption in the near term, but their impact typically fades quickly. Continued … 

How Thailand is turning local beef into a global premium product

Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.

Under the concept “Thai Innovative Beef, Global Taste,” the festival highlights the role of agricultural and food innovation in upgrading Thai beef to international standards and expanding opportunities in the global premium market. Continued …

Global Supply Chains at Risk as the U.S. Proposes 25% Tariff on AI Chips

The United States will enforce a 25% import tariff on certain advanced AI chips, effective Jan. 15. This applies globally, including imports from Thailand. The tariff targets high-performance processors such as Nvidia’s H200 and AMD’s MI325X, aiming to strengthen domestic chip manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Some exemptions apply, including chips used in U.S. data centers, research, and startups, which will face a 0% tariff initially.

The tariff increase is expected to disrupt the global semiconductor supply chain, raising production costs and encouraging investment to return to the U.S. This could cause ripple effects in Thailand, particularly in electronic exports and component supply chains to economies like China and Taiwan. Although Thailand’s direct exports of advanced chips to the U.S. remain limited, indirect impacts and investment volatility in the region may occur. Continued …

Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed

Thailand possesses four key strengths that make it an attractive location for ASML, the world’s leading chip machinery manufacturer: a strong electronics industry, reliable electrical infrastructure, low risk of conflict, and a trusted production base that respects intellectual property.

Academics suggest that the government should develop a clear “grand strategy” to link the semiconductor industry with other sectors, ensuring quick returns on investment and attracting long-term foreign investments. Continued …

Push for development of Thailand into global halal hub

The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.

He said halal tourism can potentially drive growth. Heurged stronger cooperation between the public and private sectors to develop the halal industry, noting the private sector’s robust presence in production, exports, and education. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism reality check as China forecast misses and new risk emerges from India

Thailand’s tourism industry enters 2026 at a complex and delicately balanced moment. The long-anticipated rebound in Chinese arrivals has fallen short of official forecasts, while breaking news of a virus outbreak in India and Nepal now threatens to disrupt one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets. Together, these developments point to a tourism sector moving beyond recovery and into a period of structural adjustment.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand originally forecast around eight million Chinese arrivals for 2025, expecting a strong post-pandemic recovery supported by restored air capacity. In reality, Chinese arrivals reached approximately 5.5 million, a shortfall of about 2.5 million visitors and a decline of roughly 30% year on year. Continued … 

Chiang Mai tourism in flux

Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the province set a new record in 2025 with 12 million visitors, including 4 million from overseas. Among the top five markets, the US ranked fifth after China, South Korea, Malaysia, and Taiwan. Continued …

Tourists use hands to remove ice, fear it will make them sick on Koh Samui

A foreign tourist has sparked online backlash after posting a video of herself removing ice from a drink at a restaurant on Koh Samui, prompting debate over hygiene and cultural awareness.

In the clip, the woman is seen dipping her hand into a glass, taking out the ice and throwing it away, accompanied by captions suggesting concern about being in Thailand and fearing illness from unsafe water. She later clarified in comments that she and her friend were worried the ice might be unclean and could make them sick. Continued …

I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms

Scanning the yellow-green bushes lining the foothills of Chiang Mai, I looked up in defeat. With an oversized bamboo basket strapped over my shoulders, I had been instructed to pluck tea leaves that bore a specific pattern: one big and one small leaf sandwiching an unfurled one.

The combo seemed so specific and impossible to find among the endless clusters of shrubs. Growing restless, I turned around, when … jackpot! Snapping off the perfect formation with glee, I proudly marched it over to the resident plucker. She smiled gently and nodded slightly in approval. Continued …

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: Explore Thailand’s Most Fascinating UNESCO Day Trip

Once Thailand’s capital, Ayutthaya is about 90 minutes (80 kilometers) from Bangkok and feels like a different country altogether, quieter, slower, and filled with ruins that reward unhurried wandering. It took me about 90 minutes on a local bus from the Bangkok Bus Terminal (aka Chatuchak or Mochit 2) to turn back the clock and travel back to a different world.

Ayutthaya was once one of the power centers in Southeast Asia, a city that housed a million residents. If the name has a familiar ring to it, it’s because this former capital took its name from Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram. Continued …

Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too

The air is alive with the mouth-watering aromas of lemongrass, coriander, and freshly grated ginger. We can almost taste them, and taste them we will, because today we’ll be preparing traditional Thai fare – in Thailand, no less.

A group of 10 culinary-curious tourists have gathered at the Zabb E Lee Cooking School in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai. There are two five-hour courses to choose from, in the morning and late afternoon, held in an airy bamboo pavilion surrounded by tropical greenery. Continued …

Bangkok’s oldest Thai restaurants you should visit

They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.

These places are proud of their recipes. After all, they have been serving the same since their shops opened. It’s the peak definition of “tried-and-true.” Continued …

Climate change discourse takes a new turn

What a difference a single year makes. The once-dominant push to radically reshape society to avert climate catastrophe has collapsed. Look at Davos – the talkfest long dominated by climate advocacy. That consensus has been abandoned by its once strongest proponents.

Emblematic of the shift: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen didn’t mention the climate transition once in her 2026 Davos talk – after putting it front and center in preceding years. Continued …

Oil spill cleanup underway after cargo ship sinks near Phuket

Marine authorities are rushing to remove the oil spill from the Andaman Sea after the sinking of a Panama-flagged cargo ship about 3 miles off Laem Phromthep in Phuket on Saturday while en route from Malaysia to Bangladesh. Sixteen crew members of Sealloyd Arc were rescued and brought to safety in the evening when the ship took on water and sank as it passed south of the island. Sealloyd Arc was carrying 297 containers, 14 of them containing hazardous materials, according to Thai officials. All containers sank with the 4,339-ton vessel. (Bangkok Post)

  • Colombian Suspect Arrested Over Iraqi National Killing in Patong – Continued …
  • Two Turkish Men Arrested at Phuket Airport Over Fake Stamps – Continued …

Japan’s ‘Iron Lady’ Takaichi forges stunning election win

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China. Video …

Bad Bunny celebrates Puerto Rico in joyous Super Bowl halftime show

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny yesterday turned the Super Bowl into a giant street party, delivering his hits on one of the world’s biggest stages – and becoming the first-ever halftime show headliner to sing only in Spanish. Anticipation was high for the 31-year-old’s set, amid rampant speculation about whether he would use his platform to renew his criticism of President Donald Trump’s administration in front of tens of millions of viewers. Continued …

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Monday’s news-Dec 1

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Cables to go underground/Moon x Moonlight Party/Monkey buffet in PKK/Hua Hin Marathon registration

  • THAILAND FLOODING: Overhaul Thailand’s water-management/Lack of electricity and running water/Prime minister’s political plans sunk/A saga of merry fools/Flood of Failures and Irresponsibilities/4 southern train sevices canceled/300 tons of waste
  • ECONOMY: China’s Innovation Fuels Thailand’s Economy/Thailand wasted decade/Thai Egg Market Stabilizes/Line pivots to new role
  • TOURISM: Toxic rivers chasing tourists away/European tourist bonanza next year/3 Die in Separate Water Incidents/High season prices and strong baht/Tourism from South Asia Soars/Alleged fare gouging/Airbus planes grounded
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Seawomen Fight to Keep Tradition Alive/Phuket too busy? Try this neighboring island
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Under thick smog/Bangkok residents urged to wear masks/Thai climate risk surges/Net-zero target sparks policy rethink/ASEAN accelerates toward electric vehicles
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Damnoen Kasem Road cables to go underground

Hua Hin City has moved forward with plans to put cables underground on Damnoen Kasem Road, one of the city’s main routes to the beach. The underground cable project was outlined during a presentation Friday, where officials reviewed the next stages of relocating overhead wires along the road.

The underground cable project, carried out jointly by Hua Hin City municipality and the Provincial Electricity Authority, aims to remove electrical, telephone, and communication lines currently strung above Damnoen Kasem Road. The work covers the stretch from Hua Hin Railway Station to the beachfront, an area heavily used by residents and visitors. Continued …

Moon x Moonlight Party at Hua Don Beach on Dec 6

The To the Moon x Moonlight Party will be held on Hua Don Beach in Khao Takiab on Saturday, Dec. 6, transforming the beachfront into a lively dance arena from 4 pm to midnight.

The party will feature a line-up of well-known Thai and international DJs, each bringing their unique sound to the stage. Early evening sets will start with DJ Leebreee, followed by DJ Plearnplreng, and DJ Ben.G. As the sun sets, DJ Uccello and DJ Sunday will keep the crowd moving, leading into the headline performances by DJ Evan Pierin, DJ Roxy June & MC Lexize, and DJ Chilee & MC. Continued … 

Monkey buffet in Prachuap Khiri Khan

Prachuap Khiri Khan officials held a monkey buffet at Khao Chong Krachok yesterday, providing food for the area’s well-known macaques during the “Din Khong Pho, San Tor Khong Dee Khiri Khan” event taking place nearby. The monkey buffet drew hundreds of animals to the beachfront road, where fruits and vegetables had been laid out for them throughout the morning. More than 10 baskets of fruit and vegetables, including bananas, watermelon, pineapple, and corn were provided, (HHT)

Hua Hin Marathon registration opens

Registration for the Hua Hin Marathon 2026 opened today, 1 December, with organizers expecting thousands of runners from Thailand and overseas to take part in next year’s event.

The race will be held on May 1-, starting and finishing at Khao Krilart Temple in Nong Kae. The marathon features four distances: a full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21 km), mini marathon (10.5 km), and a 5 km fun run, which is non-competitive and aimed at participants of all fitness levels. Continued …

Government urged to overhaul Thailand’s water-management budget

Water-management agencies are proposing that the government reform the structure of Thailand’s integrated water-management budget, shifting from numerous small projects toward larger strategic infrastructure plans.

Agencies recommended an annual 60-billion-baht integrated water-management budget, noting that the current system — frequently divided into small projects driven by political interests — lacks long-term planning and weakens national disaster preparedness. Continued …

Lack of electricity and running water hampering cleanup of Hat Yai

Volunteers and soldiers have joined residents of Hat Yai in cleaning up their houses and shops, but the tiring efforts have been hampered by a power blackout and the lack of tap water.

Even though electricity was restored yesterday, it is only available in about 15% of Hat Yai town. The commercial area and the town center, where the Hat Yai Hospital, the Tanyong market, and the fresh market, remains without power. A limited tap water supply resumed yesterday, but only to some areas. Continued …

Prime minister’s political plans sunk by Hat Yai unfolding disaster, as failures emerge

The scale of the flooding disaster in Hat Yai, Songkhla, and southern provinces has yet to fully emerge. Nevertheless, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s political prospects are already badly damaged and likely to worsen.

The flooding was among the worst in decades, possibly centuries. The government’s response was not only inadequate but also worsened the crisis. As deaths and personal tragedies hit the media, public anger is rising, while support for Anutin and his minority government plummets in weekend polls. Continued …

Hat Yai flood a saga of merry fools

Most people are aware of the complete failure of the Anutin administration’s failure to handle the flood disaster in Hat Yai. The floods were reputed to be the worst in recent memory, but the government’s response to the crisis, from the top policy-making level down to the bottom, was also epic.

The official death toll for the flood-ravaged southern provinces on Saturday was put at 162, including 126 in Hat Yai alone. But the actual fatalities are expected to be much higher, as several places are still inaccessible due to flooding. Continued …

​Hat Yai Flood: A Flood of Failures and Irresponsibilities

After a week of a major flood submerging the southern city of Hat Yai, the region’s largest city and a major tourist destination, and what appeared to be a systematic failure in warning people to evacuate and handling the up to 5 meters deep of flood water in some areas, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul admitted yesterday that it was his fault.

​“The government is at fault. I acknowledge that. When people die, no matter where, when people are injured and cannot stay at home, it all falls on the prime minister. It is all the prime minister’s fault.” Continued … 

4 southern train sevices canceled, others adjusted

Severe track flood damage has prompted the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to cancel four regular train services between Bangkok and the south and shorten six others, from today.

The railway agency said special express train No.31/32 operating between Bangkok and Hat Yai, and rapid train No.171/172 serving Sungai Kolok, had been suspended through to Saturday. Continued … 

Hat Yai clean-up removes over 300 tons of waste on first day of operation

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry’s first-day clean-up in flood-hit Hat Yai removed more than 300 tons of waste, with 780 officials and 88 vehicles deployed across the town.

On Saturday, 780 personnel from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, the Royal Forest Department, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, and the Pollution Control Department were deployed to help clean Hat Yai following the floods. Continued …

How China’s Innovation Fuels the Transformation of Thailand’s Economy

The narrative that China is “winning” the innovation race is no longer just a geopolitical talking point — it is a tangible economic reality visible from the factory floors of Rayong to the boardrooms of Bangkok. This shift is underscored by China’s rapid advancements in technology, infrastructure, and manufacturing capabilities, which have not only transformed its domestic economy but also reshaped global supply chains.

From pioneering breakthroughs in artificial intelligence to dominating sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy, China’s influence is increasingly felt across industries worldwide. This momentum has left neighboring nations and global competitors grappling with the challenge of keeping pace, while also presenting opportunities for collaboration and integration in the evolving economic landscape. Continued …

Thailand wasted decade as products lag, tourism loses trust: Thai Chamber in China

Phaichit Viboontanasarn, vicechairman and secretary-general of the Thai Chamber of Commerce in China and former minister counselor (commercial) at the Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing, has warned that Thailand has spent more than a decade missing out on “strategi c opportunities” in the Chinese market.

He said Thailand failed to keep pace with China’s rapid shift to full-scale online consumption, leaving Thai goods “behind the curve” and increasingly viewed as “outdated” by Chinese consumers. Continued … 

Thai Egg Market Stabilizes Through Exports, Faces Price War at Home

The Thai egg market is showing signs of recovery following a significant government-backed export drive, but smaller farmers are now facing an intense price war against major modern trade retailers.

A total of 16 major producers are collaborating with the Department of Livestock Development (DLD) to export 60 million surplus eggs by this month under the “PS SUPPORT” initiative. This action has successfully stabilized the farm-gate price for mixed-size eggs, lifting it from a low of 3.00 baht to its current level of 3.4 baht per egg. Continued …

Line pivots to new role in digital economy

Line Thailand is charting a new course by launching mini programs and agentic artificial intelligence (AI) assistants, aiming to reshape the country’s digital economy under its new chief executive.

Mini programs allow developers to create mini applications that run on the Line platform on the app-in-app format. Users can utilize them by scanning a QR code without a download or installation. Continued …

Toxic rivers chasing tourists away

The mountainous landscapes and cool, pristine air once drew visitors to Thaton village in Chiang Mai’s Mae Ai district, especially during the high season from November onward. Today, the village feels like a ghost town. Streets are empty, restaurants sit without customers, and only a handful of guests remain in riverside hotels.

The Kok River, once one of the province’s best-known attractions, now stands at the center of what has been described as ASEAN’s biggest transboundary contamination crisis. Poorly regulated rare-earth mining in Myanmar has unleashed toxic runoff, turning the river from a tourism lifeline into what locals grimly call “water of death”. Continued …

European tourist bonanza projected for next year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects European arrivals to hit a record high of more than 8.8 million next year, driven by new direct flights attributed to its airline strategy.

Suladda Sarutilavan, executive director of the European region at TAT, said flight capacity from Europe has increased by 16% year-on-year, exceeding the 2019 level by 5%. Continued …

Brit, Russian, and Korean Die in Separate Water Incidents

Three foreign tourists, a South Korean snorkeler, a British man, and a Russian man, died in separate water-related incidents in southern Thailand. Authorities reported that all incidents occurred in popular tourist areas, highlighting ongoing safety concerns for visitors in coastal regions.

In Phang Nga’s Similan Islands, 65-year-old South Korean tourist Mr. Lee lost consciousness while snorkeling near Island No. 9 Friday morning. Park rangers found him floating face down despite wearing a life jacket. They performed CPR and transferred him to a boat with medical support for transfer to Ko Miang. He arrived at Khuk Khak Medical Center and was pronounced dead five minutes later. Continued …

High season prices and strong Thai baht spark budget talks

Thailand’s golden tourism season is here, but instead of bustling crowds freely spending, a different reality is unfolding: tourists are holding back. The culprit? A Thai baht that is unusually strong, making even a high season in Pattaya feel unaffordable.

Long-term visitors are noticing a frustrating pattern. “It’s high season! But the baht magically drops after March and hits rock bottom in July when hardly anyone is here. Then in November, it soars again. It’s an amazing yearly coincidence,” one seasoned traveler observed. This year, however, the hoped-for currency adjustment never happened, leaving foreign visitors counting their spending carefully. Continued …

Tourism from South Asia to Thailand Soars 22.6%, with 535,000 Visitors Monthly

Tourism from three key South Asian markets — India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka — has seen significant growth, with an average of 535,000 visitors per month entering Thailand, marking an increase of 22.6%. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), Pakistan experienced the highest growth rate at 27.6%, followed by Sri Lanka at 22.9%, and India at 18.3%, compared to the previous year.

From Jan. 1 to Nov. 23, Thailand welcomed a total of 28,968,664 international tourists, generating approximately 1.34 trillion baht in revenue. The sharp increase in South Asian travelers is reflective of Thailand’s successful tourism policies that encourage international travel. Continued …

PM threatens to revoke airline licenses over alleged fare gouging

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has warned that airlines exploiting passengers by hiking ticket prices could face license revocation, while the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has begun a formal investigation into complaints of excessive fares and unfair practices.

CAAT said it acted immediately after receiving orders from Anutin and Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, the transport minister, to look into reports that some airlines had canceled passengers’ tickets and asked them to rebook at higher prices. Continued …

Planes grounded after Airbus discovers solar radiation could impact systems

Thousands of Airbus planes had to be grounded for a software update after it was discovered that intense solar radiation could interfere with onboard flight control computers. Around 6,000 A320 planes were thought to be affected – half the European firm’s global fleet – but many were able to fly again within hours after undergoing the update.

The UK’s aviation regulator said there would be “some disruption and cancellations to flights” though the impact at airports appears to be limited. Airbus said it discovered the issue after an investigation into an incident in which a plane flying between the US and Mexico suddenly lost altitude in October. Continued …

Haenyeo of Jeju: Aging Seawomen Fight to Keep Diving Tradition Alive

On the windswept shores of volcanic Jeju Island, three women ready themselves for another dive into the cold sea. Lee Bok-soo, 71, adjusts her rubber diving suit, tightening the straps around her shoulders. Lee Han-ok, 68, checks her weight belt. Kim Su-seon, 74, stretches her limbs, taking deep, measured breaths.

Despite their ages, all three will plunge into Jeju’s brackish waters, holding their breath for nearly a minute as they have done for decades, continuing a tradition that has shaped this island for generations. They are haenyeo, Jeju’s legendary female divers and a vanishing symbol of the island’s cultural and economic heritage. Continued …

Phuket too busy? Try this neighboring island where everything is cheaper and more relaxed

Bali. Phuket. Tokyo. Fiji. They’re all beautiful holiday spots – but truthfully, they’re all super busy. And while they’re worth visiting, sometimes when you’re on holiday, you want something more laid back and wallet-friendly.

That’s why thousands of people have been rethinking their upcoming holidays, to find less obvious destinations. The number one reason for this? Lower prices, followed closely by the appeal of less crowded destinations. Continued …

Most of Thailand still under thick smog

Ultrafine dust was at unsafe levels in Bangkok and 45 provinces over the past 24 hours, as of this morning, according to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA).

GISTDA reported at 8am that unsafe levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter, ranged from 39.4 to 60.7 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) of air in Bangkok and 45 provinces over the past 24 hours, mostly in the cCentral Plains, the northeast and the north. The government-set safe threshold for PM2.5 is 37.5µg/m³. Continued …

Bangkok air warning: Residents urged to wear masks

Bangkok has issued an air quality warning, as PM2.5 dust levels have exceeded the safety standard, reaching a level classified as unhealthy.

Officials are advising all residents to wear protective masks when outdoors and to limit strenuous activities due to the health risks. Continued …

Thai climate risk surges to 17th

Thailand has climbed to 17th among nations most at risk from extreme weather, according to the latest Climate Risk Index (CRI) released by Germanwatch. The Department of Climate Change and Environment (DCCE) said the findings have prompted accelerated upgrades to early warning systems and a push for a more integrated resilience framework.

Phirun Saiyasitpanich, DCCE director-general, revealed the 2026 index on Saturday, noting Thailand’s ranking had leapt from 72nd in 2022 to 17th in 2024, reflecting a sharp rise in vulnerability. Long-term risk has also worsened, with Thailand now placed 22nd, up from 30th in the previous index. Continued …

New net-zero target sparks policy rethink

Thailand aims to achieve net zero by 2050, 15 years earlier than previously planned, but reaching that goal will require major changes in the country’s energy landscape, with the power sector at the heart of the transition.

The Anutin Charnvirakul government’s decision to bring forward Thailand’s net-zero target from 2065 to 2050 has triggered a major rethink of national energy policy. The Energy Ministry is drafting a new power development plan (PDP) to replace the 2024 version, which was scrapped following the change in administration and the need to revise some key energy issues. Continued …

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ASEAN accelerates toward the electric vehicle era

Electric vehicle (EV) sales in ASEAN are accelerating rapidly, in contrast to combustion-powered vehicles, with Vietnam emerging as the fastest-growing market. However, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia face different challenges.

Last week, Nikkei Asia reported that electric vehicle sales in Southeast Asia are rising, while internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle sales are falling. While each country is accelerating its transition to electric vehicles at different paces, Vietnam stands out most, with local automaker VinFast playing a key role, despite Chinese competitors dominating much of the ASEAN market. Continued …

Hundreds dead and missing in flooding across Southeast Asia

Torrential rains have triggered floods and landslides across Southeast Asia, leaving hundreds dead and missing. Monsoon rain exacerbated by tropical storms caused some of the region’s worst flooding in years, with millions affected in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Continued …

Death Toll in Hong Kong Apartment Complex Blaze Rises to 146

The death toll in Hong Kong’s apartment complex blaze rose to 146 yesterday as investigators discovered more bodies in the burned-out buildings. A steady stream of people placed bouquets of flowers at an ever-growing makeshift memorial at the scene of the disaster, among the worst in the city’s history. Continued …

Global Data Center Electricity Demand Set to Double by 2030, Driven by AI

Global electricity demand from data centers is projected to double by the end of the decade, following an anticipated 16% surge in 2025, according to new analysis from business and technology insights company Gartner. The firm’s analysts estimate that worldwide data center electricity consumption will soar from 448 terawatt hours (TWh) in 2025 to 980 TWh by 2030, putting immense pressure on global energy grids. Continued …

MTV pulling plug on global music channels

MTV kick-started a new era of music and pop culture in 1981 when it went on air for the first time, emblematically playing “Video Killed the Radio Star” as its debut music video. More than four decades later, the channel, now owned by US media giant Paramount Skydance, will wind down its international music broadcasting by the end of the year, as it struggles to compete with online streaming and social media. Continued …

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Thursday’s news-Sept 11

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Three food festivals/Cha-am water supply disruption/Lions Kill Zoo Staffer/Safari World vows urgent safety review/Urgent flood warning issued/Monsoon mayhem looms/Weak laws as domestic violence surges/Thais among top 10 global gold buyers/PM Anutin reveals assets/ECONOMY: Thailand and US Begin Tariff Talks/US capital moves from China to Thailand/Thailand’s FTA trade benefits/European firms keen on Thailand/Flaws in proposed Hotel Act/TOURISM: Sex tourism in Thailand spotlighted/Chinese Tourist Dies off Koh Larn/Thai Airways to phase out its first class/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Khao Yai Asia’s No.2 rural destination/Luxury Travelers Are Flocking to Secluded Resorts/CLIMATE THAILAND: Face masks: An environmental time bomb/FOREIGNERS/INTERNATIONAL/NEW PAGE – HUA HIN LINKS 

Three food festivals to take place near Hua Hin this weekend

Food lovers are in for a treat this weekend, with three food festivals set to get underway near Hua Hin. Each event will highlight local cuisine, seafood, and community culture across the region. Continued …

Cha-am water supply disruption today

Cha-am Municipality has announced a temporary suspension of the water supply in several communities today. The disruption will take place between 9am and 5pm. Continued …

Lions Kill Zoo Staffer in Bangkok Attack

A zoo employee in the Ram Intra area of Bangkok was fatally attacked by a group of lions yesterday in an incident that lasted approximately 15 minutes. Witnesses, including tourists, attempted to intervene by honking car horns and shouting for help, but were unable to stop the animals.

The incident occurred when the staff member, identified as former surgeon Dr. Thawatchai Kanchanarin, exited a vehicle and was approached from behind by one lion. The lion grabbed him and dragged him to the ground before biting him, and within minutes, four additional lions joined the attack, inflicting severe injuries. Continued …

Safari World vows urgent safety review after zookeeper killed in lion attack

Safari World issued a statement following the death of a 58-year-old zookeeper who was attacked by a lion at the open zoo in Bangkok.

“In light of the recent accident involving a staff member in the lion zone, the employee sustained severe injuries and later passed away. The company expresses its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and will provide full support and assistance to them,” the statement read. Continued …

Urgent flood warning issued as Chao Phraya River reaches crisis level

Chai Nat province has issued an urgent warning after the Chao Phraya River rose to a critical level, with water north of the Chao Phraya Dam surging more than 0.35 meters following heavy rainfall.

The Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command has alerted residents in three riverside districts — Manorom (Tha Chanuan, Siladan, Wat Khok, Khung Samphao subdistricts), Wat Sing (Makham Thao, Wat Sing subdistricts), and Mueang Chainat (Thammamool, Hat Tha Sao, Khao Tha Phra, Tha Chai, Ban Kluai, Chainat subdistricts) — to prepare for possible flash floods. Continued … 

Monsoon mayhem looms with storms and floods in Thailand

Thailand faces heavy rain, flash flood risks, and rough seas as the monsoon continues to impact multiple regions, prompting warnings from officials. The active monsoon trough remains across the north and upper northeast, while moderate southwesterly winds persist over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf. Isolated heavy rainfall is expected across the upper regions.

Scattered thundershowers are expected on the east coast in the southern region, particularly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures range from 23 to 25 °C in the early hours to 31 to 34 °C later in the day. Winds will blow at 15 to 35 km/h. Continued …

Thailand blasted for weak laws as domestic violence surges

Campaigners are calling out Thailand’s weak domestic violence laws, accusing them of protecting abusers more than victims, and demanding urgent reform. Civil society groups are ramping up pressure on the new government to prioritize a long-delayed draft law that would strengthen protections for victims of domestic and sexual violence.

Yesterday, the Coalition Against Gender-Based Violence Thailand hosted a public forum to scrutinize the legal shortcomings in tackling gender-based violence. The event brought together activists, legal experts, and lawmakers to push for faster legislative progress. Continued …

Thais among top 10 global gold buyers

Thailand has emerged as one of the world’s top 10 gold buyers, with demand jumping 21% year-on-year to 20.7 tons in the first half of 2025, supported by expected US interest rate cuts, safe-haven demand, and a global de-dollarization trend, says YLG Bullion International.

Pawan Nawawattanasub, chief executive of the Bangkok-based gold trader, said global prices, which this week hit a record high of more than $3,670 an ounce, would remain firmly on an upward trajectory over the next 6-12 months. Continued …

PM Anutin reveals billions in assets, private jets, and antiques

PM Anutin Charnvirakul has disclosed assets amounting to 3.9 billion baht, which include three private jets, two speedboats, and a luxury property in Bangkok. Among his assets, the former construction magnate also listed 1.09 billion baht in cash and deposits spread across over 24 bank accounts.

The 58-year-old Bhumjaithai leader revealed his financial status to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) as part of a mandatory process for government officials, with the agency releasing the details publicly yesterday. Continued …

Thailand and US Begin Tariff Talks with ‘Flexible’ Approach

Thailand and the United States have commenced their first round of technical negotiations on trade tariffs, with a senior source from the Thai Ministry of Commerce revealing that the US has adopted a “flexible” and cooperative stance.

The discussions are highly detailed, involving multiple government agencies from both sides and focusing on the wording of more than one hundred articles. Continued …

US capital moves from China as Thai industrial estates expand 34,000 rai in three years

Amid rising US-China trade tensions, Thai industrial investment has surged, with new industrial estates expanding by 34,000 rai over the past three years. The trade friction between the United States and China intensified earlier this year, although some temporary tariff relief measures were introduced in mid-May. Last month, both countries agreed to extend the trade truce for another 90 days, until mid-November.

According to a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Shanghai, nearly half of US businesses — 47% — had shifted planned investments away from China to other regions over the past year, primarily to ASEAN countries. This represents the highest proportion recorded since AmCham Shanghai first conducted the survey. Continued …

Thailand’s FTA trade benefits hit Bt1.4 trillion in first half of 2025

Arada Fuangtong, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade, revealed that during the first six months of 2025 (January-June), the value of Thailand’s trade benefits under free trade agreements (FTAs) continued to expand.

Total utilization reached US$44.79 billion (around Bt1.4 trillion), representing 79.6% of eligible FTA trade, up 10.2% from the same period last year. Continued …

European firms keen on Thailand

Thailand remains a key destination in Southeast Asia for European companies seeking to expand business operations to withstand ongoing global economic shocks and uncertainties, according to a recent survey by the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC).

ASEAN has emerged as “the region with the best economic opportunity for European businesses”, beating India and China for the third year running in the EU-Asean Business Sentiment Survey, published by the EU-ABC yesterday. Continued …

Hospitality industry sees flaws in proposed Hotel Act changes

The Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) has expressed concern about attempts to revise the Hotel Act, saying any changes must ensure that tourist safety will not be compromised and shoddy operations will face consequences.

The association does not say the 2004 Hotel Act has any loopholes, President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun said yesterday. The problem is ineffective law enforcement against operators that do not follow the rules, he said. Continued …

Sex tourism from the UK to Thailand spotlighted in BBC documentary series

A new BBC documentary series is turning heads in the UK as it exposes Thailand’s booming sex industry. The show pulls no punches, diving deep into the country’s thriving sex tourism trade — one that continues to lure British men in droves.

These encounters are more than casual transactions; they’ve given rise to a growing number of Anglo-Thai relationships. The phenomenon isn’t new. It began in the 1960s in Bangkok and Pattaya, but decades later, it’s still alive and kicking. Continued …

Chinese Tourist Dies After Jet Ski Incident off Koh Larn

A Chinese tourist has died and another survived after a jet ski incident off Koh Larn near Pattaya. The couple, who rented the craft from Tawaen Beach on Tuesday, failed to return it by the agreed time. Rescue teams launched a large-scale search and discovered the man alive in the early hours of yesterday, while his wife was later found dead.

Police were first alerted when the jet ski owner reported that the craft had not been brought back. Officials from Pattaya City Police, the Marine Department, tourist police, and Sawang Boriboon rescue units joined the overnight search. Boats and specialist teams were deployed across the waters surrounding Koh Larn. Continued …

Thai Airways to phase out its first class cabins

Thai Airways intends to phase out its first class cabins within the next two to three years as part of a strategic transformation aimed at enhancing its premium travel offerings and reclaiming market share.

Instead, the airline will prioritize upgrading its business class to a more luxurious standard, in line with global aviation trends. This decision follows Thai Airways’ successful financial restructuring and exit from its reorganization plan. Continued …

Khao Yai ranked Asia’s No.2 rural destination

Khao Yai has been ranked the second most popular rural destination in Asia in 2025 by online travel agency Agoda, reinforcing Thailand’s appeal on the global tourism stage.

The ranking, based on accommodation searches between Feb. 15 and Aug. 15, considered destinations in rural areas with fewer than 50,000 residents across eight Asian countries. Continued …

Luxury Travelers Are Flocking to Secluded Resorts in the Heart of Nature

In recent years, the travel landscape has undergone a major transformation. Today, travelers are seeking more than just typical vacations. They are looking for extraordinary, immersive experiences in the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring locations.

However, this desire for isolation is balanced with an equally strong craving for luxury, meaning comfort, world-class service, and top-tier amenities. It’s no longer just about escaping to secluded places; it’s about doing so in style and enjoying the finest services available. Continued …

Face masks: An environmental time bomb

Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, face masks have become an essential tool for personal protection. However, along with their widespread use, billions of discarded masks have accumulated in both landfills and waterways.

Scientists are now warning that used face masks are an “environmental time bomb” that are breaking down into “microplastics” and continuously releasing harmful chemicals. Continued …

  • Taiwanese Man Arrested for Call Center Money Laundering – Continued …
  • 2 Chinese and 11 Burmese arrested in Bangkok e-cigarettes factory raid – Continued …

Indonesian democracy on brink

The anti-government protests sweeping Indonesia over the past two weeks are not fleeting outbursts but the culmination of long-suppressed grievances against abuses of power, the erosion of constitutional norms, and the violation of basic human rights. The protesters are not seeking an apology or even sympathy from the president; they demand the chance to live a decent life in which their dignity and human rights are respected and upheld. Continued … 

Oracle chief Ellison challenges Musk for ‘world’s richest’ title

Billionaire Elon Musk is at risk of losing his title as the world’s wealthiest person to Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, whose software giant appears poised for massive AI riches through a major deal with OpenAI. Ellison, 81, amassed about $95 billion in additional wealth yesterday as Oracle shares skyrocketed after the nearly 50-year-old company forecast massive revenue growth thanks to large contracts that will dwarf current revenue. Continued …

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Monday’s news-Sept 8

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Hua Hin bank accounts locked without warning/Hua Hin Blessing of the Fleet/Saran Withee Festival/Soi 106 railway crossing underpass/Truck overturns, spilling 5 million meth pills/Anutin formally appointed PM/Heavy rainfall alert/Youth Motorbike Riders Without Licenses/Thai Drivers Under 55 Can Renew Licenses Online/Thieves Steal Ambulance, Call Police for Help/Education system demands reform/UK man latest high rise balcony fatality/Rainmaking said safe/AI traffic signals/ECONOMY: Anutin picks Ekniti as finance minister/Restaurants call for stimulus/Co-payment stimulus likely/Banking industry at critical point/Baht rise abnormal/Hope for Thai Cannabis Industry/TOURISM: AOT Reports Record Growth/Will Pattaya tourism see a September recovery?/King Power Adjusts to New Realities/British Couple Faces Huge Medical Bill/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s 8 best wildlife experiences/UNESCO World Heritage Sites a must visit/CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok Faces Existential Flood Threat/INTERNATIONAL/NEW PAGE – HUA HIN LINKS

Expats in Hua Hin left stranded as bank accounts locked without warning

Foreign residents in Hua Hin and across Thailand are reporting significant inconvenience after Bangkok Bank froze their accounts without prior notice, leaving many unable to access funds for daily expenses, bills, and emergencies.

The stricter identity verification measures, which began intensifying in May 2025, follow regulatory measures from the Bank of Thailand to curb financial fraud, money laundering, and so-called “mule” accounts used in scams. While the steps are said to be in line with international “Know Your Customer” standards, the sudden freezes have caused widespread disruption for expats and tourists. Continued …

Hua Hin Holds Blessing of the Fleet

Tourists and residents gathered at the Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine yesterday to take part in Hua Hin’s annual “Sea Misfortune Sending” boat release ceremony, a tradition dedicated to making merit for ancestors and seeking protection for the local fishing community.

The event, held beside the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, brought together local officials, community groups, and visitors from across Thailand and abroad. The day began with merit-making and offerings to monks, led by Phra Kru Phisutthipawanaphithan, abbot of Wat Hua Hin and adviser to the Hua Hin district monastic chief. Continued …

Saran Withee Festival in PKK Sept 12-13

The Saran Withee Festival: The Colors of the Wind 2025 will take place Sept. 12–13, from 5-9pm in Prachuap Khiri Khan about an hour’s drive south of Hua Hin. The event wil be held at the Saran Withee Bridge Pier.

The event features a hot air balloon show, an lluminated bridge, concerts by artists and local students, local food, and fresh seafood.

Hua Hin Soi 106 railway crossing underpass ruled out

Local residents in the Nong Kae community of Hua Hin are calling for safer and more convenient ways to cross the railway at Soi 106 after officials confirmed an underpass cannot be built at the site.

On Friday, the mayor of Hua Hin City Municipality assigned Natthawan Mitdee, the mayor’s secretary, along with City Council President Cheep Suksri, council member Sorayut Premkamolnet, the director of the engineering office, and relevant officials to meet with representatives from the State Railway of Thailand, the head of the Nong Kae community, and local residents. The discussion focused on whether an underpass at the Soi 106 crossing could be constructed to ease movement across the railway line. Continued …

Truck overturns on Phetkasem Road spilling 5 million meth pills

A lorry carrying millions of methamphetamine tablets crashed after a tire burst, scattering its illicit cargo across a stretch of Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) in Kui Buri district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province. The driver fled the scene.

The crash occurred at around 7.30 am yesterday near Ban Samrong, Sam Krathai subdistrict. Police and rescue teams found a white Isuzu truck with Bangkok registration plates, its rear tires blown and the vehicle resting against a guardrail. No driver or passengers were found at the scene. Continued …

Anutin formally appointed Thailand’s 32nd prime minister

The Bhumjaithai Party held the royal command ceremony in which Anutin Charnvirakul, party leader and MP on the party-list system, was formally appointed as the 32nd prime minister of Thailand yesterday.

Arphat Sukanan, secretary-general of the House of Representatives, brought the royal command appointing the prime minister to the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters on Phaholyothin Road. He then read out the royal command, in which His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua (King Rama X) formally appointed Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister of Thailand. Continued …

Heavy rainfall alert issued for 50 Thai provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather warning today, highlighting heavy rainfall across 50 provinces, including Bangkok and its vicinity, with an expected 80% coverage of intense downpour.

In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are predicted in 40% of the area, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani. Temperatures range from 23 to 26°C to 31 to 34°C, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 35 km/h. Continued … 

Youth Motorbike Riders Without Licenses Pose Safety Crisis

Motorcycles are a daily necessity for millions of Thai households, serving as transport to school, work, and everyday activities. But a growing concern is that young people, the group most likely to rely on motorbikes, are also the most at risk, with the majority riding illegally without proper licenses.

Figures released by the Thailand Accident Research Center reveal the scale of the issue. Riders without licenses, in age groups: 81% of 15–18-year-olds, 65% of 18–24-year-olds, and even 33% of those aged over 24 were found to be riding without. Continued … 

Thai Drivers Under 55 Can Renew Licenses Online in 2026

In a digital shake-up for Thai drivers, a new ministerial regulation is bringing the convenience of online renewals to drivers under 55. As announced in the Royal Gazette, from March 4, 2026, motor enthusiasts can bypass lengthy queues and embrace a digital route to renewing their licenses.

Caretaker Transport Deputy Minister Surapong Piyachote highlighted that this move streamlines processes and eliminates unnecessary trips to transport offices. However, drivers over 55 or those whose licenses have expired for more than a year won’t have the same digital luxury. Continued …

Thieves Steal Ambulance, Run Out of Fuel & Call Police for Help

Two teenage thieves had an unusually unlucky day after stealing an ambulance from Krabi, running out of fuel mid-journey, and then daring to call the police for assistance, only to be arrested immediately.

The 19- and 17-year-old suspects had reportedly stolen a Toyota marked with “Khlong Thom Rescue and Emergency Association, Krabi” while it was parked with the keys left inside. The vehicle was intended for patient transport and rescue operations. Continued …

Thai education system demands reform after poor global rankings

Thailand’s education system faces renewed scrutiny following international assessments that rank Thai students in the lower half of global performance tables. Education experts caution that without comprehensive reforms, Thailand risks lagging further behind its regional peers in literacy and skills development.

This urgent need for change was underscored at the Beyond Assessment: Driving Educational Change Forum held in Bangkok last week. According to the World Population Review 2025, Thailand’s literacy rate, at 94.1%, lags behind Brunei at 97.6%, Singapore at 97.5%, Philippines at 96.3%, Indonesia at 96%, Vietnam at 95.8%, and Malaysia at 95%. Continued …

UK man the latest foreign tourist to die in high rise balcony fall in Pattaya

A foreign tourist has died after plummeting from a Pattaya hotel balcony. The victim, 74-year-old Briton Keith Jones, was found face down on the ground in only swimming trunks. He suffered catastrophic head trauma and multiple broken bones.

Emergency responders confirmed he died at the scene in the Nong Prue area of the resort city. The fall from the high-rise building shocked locals and tourists alike. Continued …

Rainmaking said safe as Thailand prepares for drought relief

The Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department is stepping up efforts to combat drought and mitigate its regular adverse effects on Thailand’s agricultural sector. Officials have confirmed that water produced through artificial rain, or “royal rainmaking”. is of comparable quality to natural rainfall and is safe for both consumption and agricultural use.

Rachen Silparaya, director-general of the department, stated that Thailand ranks first globally in weather modification techniques aimed at generating rain. While several countries are keen to learn from Thailand’s expertise, practical application remains limited due to the technical expertise required and the need to consider weather conditions, humidity, and cloud formations. Continued …

Green light for AI traffic signals

For years, Bangkok’s drivers have endured hours stuck in traffic. But a quiet revolution has been underway since February, when the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) partnered with Google on Project Green Light.

The initiative uses artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize traffic light timings, analyzing data from 561 signalized intersections to adjust green, yellow, and red lights according to real-time traffic conditions. Continued …

Anutin picks Ekniti as finance minister to push urgent economic policies

Every time a new government is formed or a cabinet reshuffle takes place in Thailand, one of the most scrutinized positions is that of the finance minister. The post is regarded as pivotal for any administration, tasked with steering fiscal policy and driving economic growth in line with government targets.

In the latest government formation led by Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and incoming prime minister, preparations for the “Anutin 1 Cabinet” were set in motion even before the parliamentary vote on Sept. 5. Continued …

Restaurants call for stimulus

Restaurant operators are calling on the new government to introduce supportive measures for the industry, citing numerous challenges, including the sluggish economy, rising raw material costs, and difficulties in accessing loans.

Thailand’s restaurant industry is struggling amid the economic slowdown, said Jakkrit Saisomboon, chief executive of MAI-listed Maguro Group, operator of the Maguro restaurant chain. Continued … 

Co-payment stimulus ‘likely to be revived’

The Bhumjaithai Party has confirmed that it is considering reviving the government’s “Khon La Khrueng” (Let’s Go Halves) co-payment scheme as part of efforts to stimulate Thailand’s slowing economy.

Deputy leader Siripong Angkasakulkiat said on Saturday that discussions about the plan are already under way within the party’s executive committee and policy teams as they prepare to take the reins of government. Continued …

Thailand’s banking industry is at critical turning point

Amid global economic shifts and mounting domestic challenges, Thailand’s banking industry is at a critical turning point. Unlike many other sectors, banks are entering a period of declining interest rates, a cycle that inevitably squeezes their core revenue streams.

When interest rates fall, deposit rates tend to adjust more slowly than lending rates, while surplus liquidity parked with the Bank of Thailand earns lower returns. This dynamic puts pressure on banks’ net interest margin (NIM), reducing their ability to generate profit. Continued …

Baht rise abnormal, says bank CEO, calls for tighter controls

Amid Thailand’s sluggish economy, the baht has continued to appreciate, raising concerns for exports and competitiveness. The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has previously voiced alarm over the baht’s persistent rise, noting that it is inconsistent with the country’s weak fundamentals.

The group pointed to links with underground transactions, including surging gold prices, volatile cryptocurrency movements, and remittances from migrant workers bypassing the banking system. Continued … 

Anutin’s Return Sparks Hope for Thai Cannabis Industry

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, renowned for pioneering the decriminalization of cannabis and fostering its early growth, is positioning Thailand’s cannabis industry for a resurgence.

Since Anutin decriminalized marijuana in 2022, making Thailand the first Asian nation to do so, the sector has faced a rollercoaster of policy changes. Without a concrete cannabis law, regulation has been challenging, raising fears of it being classified as a narcotic again. Continued …

Thailand’s AOT Reports Record Growth as Airport Expansion Plans Accelerate

Thailand’s state-owned airport operator has reported significant passenger growth across its six major facilities, while unveiling ambitious expansion plans designed to cement the kingdom’s position as a regional aviation hub.

Airports of Thailand Public Co. (AOT) announced that its airports collectively served 88.53 million passengers during the first eight months of fiscal year 2025, representing a 9.2% increase compared to the same period last year. Continued …

Will Pattaya tourism see a September recovery or just wait for miracles?

As the rainy season drapes the city in gray skies and intermittent downpours, Pattaya’s tourism industry faces a familiar conundrum: can the city generate meaningful visitor activity in September, or must stakeholders simply wait for miraculous weather and economic conditions to improve?

On paper, optimism exists. Pattaya is still home to a slew of high-profile events, from Miss International Queen to music festivals and regional cultural showcases. Hotels remain operational, restaurants ready, and beachside attractions await eager tourists. Local authorities continue to invest in safety, infrastructure, and marketing campaigns aimed at luring visitors during the traditionally slow season. Continued …

King Power Adjusts to New Realities in Thailand Retail Market

King Power Corp. once wielded significant influence as Thailand’s most powerful duty free operator. It now battles stagnant tourism, decreased visitations from the Chinese, and increase operational costs.

Such factors collectively jeopardize King Power’s competitive edge. While King Power has exclusive commercial rights at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket airports, the business’s scope appears to be narrowing. This has forced the company to rethink its strategy. Continued …

Brit Faces Huge Medical Bill After Falling Down Waterfall In Thailand

A British couple’s dream vacation in Thailand turned into a nightmare when a 23-year-old soldier fell 30 feet from a waterfall he discovered on TikTok, suffering a fractured skull and leg. His partner, Lucy, clung to him for two hours on a narrow ledge, preventing a further 100-meter fall, until rescuers arrived.

The couple now faces over 4.342 million baht ($135,000) in medical expenses and the need for a costly medical evacuation to the UK. Their travel insurance status remains uncertain. Continued …

Thailand’s 8 best and unmissable wildlife experiences for nature lovers

Thailand’s tropical climate and protected areas support over 10% of the world’s animal species, including Asian elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and marine life like whale sharks.

On your next trip to Thailand, try to focus on ethical tourism by choosing sanctuaries that prioritize animal welfare — no riding, shows, or chaining — and support conservation efforts. Not only are these sanctuaries doing something great for the animals, they are also here to give you unforgettable wildlife experiences. Continued … 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Thailand that are a must visit for culture seekers

Thailand is one beautiful Asian country home to a range of incredible cultural beauties and natural wonders. Some of these have earned UNESCO World Heritage status because of their unique values.

These sites take you back in time to make you experience the country’s golden heritage. On this note, let’s have a look at five UNESCO sites you should not miss on your trip to Thailand. Continued …

Bangkok Faces Existential Flood Threat, Expert Warns

Bangkok is facing a compounding flood crisis that could see most of the city submerged by 2030, according to a stark warning from a leading environmental academic.

Writing on social media, Sonthi Kotchawat of the Thai Environmental Scholars Assn. outlined the key factors behind the worsening situation, arguing that the city’s flood-management strategy requires a complete overhaul. Continued …

Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga land top honors at MTV’s Video Music Awards

Pop singer Ariana Grande claimed the top prize at the MTV (Music Television) Video Music Awards (VMA), and Lady Gaga and Sabrina Carpenter scored major honors, at a star-studded celebration of fan favorites in New York yesterday. Grande won video of the year for “Brighter Days Ahead,” earning her the biggest award of the night at the fan-voted awards. Continued …

Chinese travelers mull Russia for visa-free National Day holidays

Russia is attracting more interest from Chinese holidaymakers in the countdown to the weeklong National Day break, with the prospect of visa-free stays on the horizon. Searches for Russian hotels and flights rose more than sixfold on Friday from a day earlier within an hour of Chinese media reporting that Russian President Vladimir Putin had suggested that Chinese travelers might soon be able to visit without visas. Continued … 

Jakarta’s crisis is ASEAN’s problem

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has relied on the domestic stability of its member states to achieve regional unity, and Indonesia, as the largest and most populous nation in the bloc, has served as the primary stabilizing force. However, the recent episodes of internal instability have raised questions about its ability to maintain this pivotal role. Continued …

French parliament set to eject PM in blow to Macron

France’s parliament is expected to oust Prime Minister Francois Bayrou today after just nine months in office, plunging the key European Union (EU) member into new political uncertainty and creating a painful dilemma for President Emmanuel Macron. Continued … 

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Resigns

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced yesterday he will step down following growing calls from his party to take responsibility for a historic defeat in July’s parliamentary election. Ishiba, who took office in October, had resisted demands from mostly right-wing opponents within his own party for more than a month. Continued …

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