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Tuesday’s news-April 21

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Feedback Re: Pattaya tourist trash/Modern Spine Treatments in Hua Hin/Anzac Day/Miracle of the Three Bays City Fair/Rama 2 Delayed Again/Diesel prices cut by/Smog levels ‘critical’

  • THE IRAN WAR: Prolonged Natural Gas Surge/Aviation faces geopolitical turbulence
  • ECONOMY: Consumer spending set to drop/Thailand weighs emergency borrowing/Senate Pushes 3% VAT Increase/Push for US semiconductor investment/Projects to Empower Entrepreneurs/Thailand’s Turbulent Cannabis Industry
  • TOURISM: US Visa Applicants Must Make Social Media Public/Thai Airways Cancels 46 Routes/Stimulus needed for regional tourism/Pattaya Songkran Wan Lai/flydubai to launch daily Bangkok flights
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s Krabi Coast from NASA images/Thailand lands five spots on TIME’s must-visit list
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Natural gas key to economic growth/Low-interest green loans/Global heating threatens life expectancy
  • HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

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Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students

Vilhelm International Academy launched in March 2026 and has is campus at “The Hub” in Hin Lek Fai, less than 10 minutes from the center of town. They provide mentor-led academic supervision for students studying through accredited online school programs, whether independently enrolled or through integrated programs offered at Vilhelm. This means that students follow a fixed timetable, complete coursework under supervision, and receive ongoing progress monitoring.  They can do this whist studying for their GCSE’s, A-Levels, NCAA approved US courses, or any other online school they choose to use.

Unlike more traditional options, at the academy children can learn at their own pace, not being forced forward before they are ready and also not being held back by the rest of the class. When they are ready to move on they do so. By coming to the academy each day, they are able to complement their studies with activities that develop leadership skills, community service (such as the recent helmet initiative), complemented by daily sports and physical activity to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

You can visit the website for more details, or you can book an appointment to meet with the academy co-ordinator to discuss what you are looking for and explain what they can offer. There is a completely free five-day trial period that can be taken advantage of by anyone interested in seeing if the academy is the right fit for them.

Website; Email: info@vilhelminternationalacademy.com; Phone: +66 065 991 5500; Facebook; Map location.

Re: Pattaya tourist trash

“Pattaya Beach struggles with growing trash problem as tourists leave litter behind despite nearby bins! Absolute bs that it’s always tourists! This very day I saw Thais not only chucking trash from their cars and bikes but also on the beach. The Thais are the worst dumpers of trash I’ve ever experienced!” Peter

Editor: The headline says “tourists” and tourists can mean both foreigners and Thais.

Modern Spine Treatments Now Available in Hua Hin

Neck and lower back pain rank among the most widespread health concerns worldwide. Years of desk work, sports such as golf and tennis, frequent travel, or previous injuries can gradually take their toll on the spine. Left unaddressed, the discomfort can disrupt sleep, limit mobility, and diminish overall quality of life.

Dr. Phark Thanphraisan, an anesthesiologist specializing in pain medicine at Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, notes that most patients rightly begin with conservative measures — medication, physical therapy, stretching, yoga, or acupuncture. These approaches bring relief to many. Yet for some, pain persists despite months of dedicated treatment. Continued … 

Miracle of the Three Bays City Fair set for April 24-May 4

The Miracle of the Three Bays City Fair and Red Cross Festival will return to Prachuap Khiri Khan from April 24 to May 4, with organizers preparing a wide-ranging program of exhibitions, performances, and charity activities.

The fair aims to promote tourism, stimulate the local economy, and raise awareness of the traditions, cultural heritage, and local knowledge that shape the identity of the province’s eight districts. The event will take place at King Rama IX Commemorative Park in front of the provincial hall, along the Prachuap Bay coastal road and at Saranwithi Bridge. Entry will be free of charge. Continued … 

Rama 2 Road Construction in Bangkok Delayed Again

Construction on Rama 2 Road in Bangkok will now extend until mid-2027, according to a new timeline set by Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. This delay stems from escalating costs in fuel and construction materials, affecting multiple projects on the road.

These works have already caused significant inconvenience, with the road’s reputation as “Thanon Jed Shua Khot,” translating to the “seven-generation road,” highlighting the prolonged disruptions experienced by motorists and residents. Continued … 

Diesel prices cut by 1.20 baht a liter

Thai motorists are paying less for diesel from today after PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) and Bangchak Corp. (BCP) announced a B1.20-per-liter reduction in retail diesel prices, following a decision by the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee on Sunday. The new prices took effect on today from 5 am. Petrol and gasohol prices remain unchanged.

The price adjustment came after the committee approved changes to Oil Fuel Fund contribution and compensation rates for both diesel and petrol products, saying the move was intended to reflect weakening global oil prices and allow lower retail diesel prices. Continued … 

Smog levels ‘critical’ in the north, Nan worst affected

Air pollution has reached critical levels in 10 northern provinces, the Pollution Control Department (PCD) warned yesterday, with Nan recording the worst smog, as PM2.5 dust levels nationwide exceeded safety standards in 31 provinces.

Excessive PM2.5 levels were detected in 31 provinces – Chiang Mai, Nan, Mae Hong Son, Phayao, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phetchabun, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Lop Buri, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Khon Kaen, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani. Continued … 

Middle East Turmoil Drives Prolonged Natural Gas Surge, High Electricity Costs for 2+ Years

The Middle East conflict has caused liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices to surge by over 91%, rising from USD 10.7 to USD 20.5 per million BTU between February and April. This spike was triggered by supply disruptions, particularly damage to Qatar’s Ras Laffan gas field, which accounts for 17% of its capacity, reducing global LNG supply by 3%.

Recovery of this supply is expected to take 3–5 years. Persistent disruptions and high demand in Asia and Europe will keep LNG prices elevated, though increased U.S. production and alternative energy adoption should help balance supply and demand after two years. Continued … 

Global aviation faces geopolitical turbulence

The ongoing Middle East conflict poses significant headwinds for global aviation, as airports in the region serve as critical global aviation hubs, handling roughly 10% of worldwide air traffic. Airspace closures and damage to aviation infrastructure are disrupting Europe-Asia routes and global connectivity.

Beyond the operational disruptions, the conflict is weighing on demand through higher oil prices and elevated safety concerns, which are already prompting some passengers to postpone or cancel trips, or shift toward shorter, intra-regional routes. Continued … 

Grim outlook as consumer spending power set to drop

The outlook for the retail and wholesale sector looks grim, as consumer spending power is expected to decline in the coming months, alongside anticipated rising goods prices, according to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn.

After the Songkran festival, consumers are facing a bitter reality: persistently high energy costs, rising consumer goods prices influenced by the war in the Middle East, and upcoming back-to-school expenses for their children, said Somchai Pornrattanacharoen, honorary adviser to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn. Continued … 

Thailand weighs emergency borrowing decree

Thailand is considering issuing an emergency decree authorizing the Finance Ministry to borrow T500 billion baht as the government braces for twin threats from soaring energy costs and a looming super El Niño.

The prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which has continued since Feb. 28, has pushed up global energy prices and is expected to affect Thailand’s economy and inflation this year. Against that backdrop, the government has begun weighing the use of an emergency borrowing decree to prepare for both the energy crisis and climate-related disruptions. Continued … 

Senate Pushes 3% VAT Increase in Thailand Tax Reform

Thailand’s Senate committee has proposed a tax reform plan to tackle the country’s fiscal deficit, suggesting an increase in value-added tax (VAT) from 7% to 10%. If approved, the proposals will be submitted to the Cabinet for potential implementation.

Thailand has faced budget deficits averaging 4% of GDP over the past decade, surpassing the fiscal sustainability threshold of 3%. The committee warned that public debt might hit the legal ceiling by 2027-2029, necessitating further borrowing. The proposed tax reforms focus mainly on consumption-based taxes, with a significant emphasis on increasing VAT to support welfare spending for the aging population. Continued … 

Thailand intensifies push for US semiconductor investment

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Board of Investment (BOI), said Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and finance minister, led Team Thailand on a visit to Washington, D.C., in the United States from April 13–17, to attend the IMF-World Bank spring meetings, while also expanding cooperation with partner countries and leading economic organizations. Their goal was to attract investment from target companies in advanced technology industries, particularly semiconductors, which are growing rapidly as demand surges in response to AI technology.

The global semiconductor market is expected to exceed US$1 trillion by the end of 2026, four years earlier than previously forecast by the Semiconductor Association, and it is regarded as a new-generation industry in which countries are competing for investment to strengthen competitiveness and technological security. Continued … 

Trade Office Rolling Out 680 Projects to Empower Entrepreneurs

In today’s Trade 5.0 landscape, global competition is no longer defined solely by “price”. Instead, it is driven by “trust” and “value” that buyers can genuinely experience and verify — from the origin of raw materials and production standards to the storytelling that gives each brand its identity and distinction.

With this shift, the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) has reaffirmed its mission to strengthen the capabilities of Thai entrepreneurs and expand their access to international markets. To achieve this, the department is advancing the “Think Thailand: Next Level” campaign to elevate Thai products and services that reflect the nation’s identity, culture, and inherent strengths. Continued … 

From Legalization to Limbo: Thailand’s Turbulent Cannabis Industry

Four years ago, Thailand became the Weed Wonderland of the East. You couldn’t turn a corner in Bangkok or Pattaya without seeing a big green neon cannabis leaf. In Southeast Asia, which is notorious for having some of the world’s harshest drug laws, it was a first.

Previously, Thailand had the largest incarcerated population in the region, of which 80% of inmates were convicted of drug offenses. The Land of Smiles regularly imposed the death penalty for narcotics offenses, with inmates marching through Bangkok’s Bangkwan prison, chains rattling, to face the firing squad. Continued … 

US Embassy Bangkok Orders Visa Applicants to Make Social Media Public

The US Embassy in Bangkok has again announced that all applicants for a wide range of US nonimmigrant visas must set their social media accounts to public. The requirement is effective immediately and applies to multiple visa categories, with officials stating it is intended to support identity verification and admissibility screening under US law. Failure to comply will result in delays to visa processing.

The embassy posted the update on its official Facebook page yesterday, stating that the policy is designed to facilitate vetting procedures. It applies to applicants for A-3, C-3 (domestic worker), G-5, H-1B, H-3, H-4 dependents of H-1B and H-3, F, M, J, K-1, K-2, K-3, Q, R-1, R-2, S, T and U nonimmigrant visa categories. Applicants are required to adjust privacy settings on all social media accounts to public to allow screening authorities to review available information. Continued … 

Thai Airways Cancels 46 Routes Across Asia and Europe in May

Thai Airways International has announced a significant reduction in flight services, impacting a total of 46 routes across Asia and Europe throughout May. The airline cites increased oil costs and decreased passenger demand during the low tourism season as primary reasons for these adjustments.

To assist affected travelers, Thai Airways has prepared alternative arrangements through agents. Domestic routes experiencing cancellations include flights from Bangkok to Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, and Khon Kaen, running from May 1 to May 31. On the international front, affected routes from Bangkok cover destinations such as Hyderabad, New Delhi, Mumbai, Singapore, and several other cities in Asia. Flights to European locations such as Istanbul, Frankfurt, Munich, and Copenhagen will also see reductions, particularly on select days. Continued … 

Stimulus needed for regional tourism

Regional tourism operators expect domestic tourism during this low season to perform worse than last year, due to higher living costs and debt levels, unless new stimulus measures are introduced to encourage travel and provide short-term debt relief.

“Planning a trip is influenced by people’s wealth, but today many are concerned that the near future will make spending on tourism more difficult,” said Punlop Saejew, vice president of the Chiang Mai Chamber of Commerce. Continued … 

Pattaya Songkran Wan Lai wraps up with strong economic boost

Pattaya Songkran Wan Lai 2026 ended on Sunday with huge crowds packing Pattaya Beach from North Pattaya to South Pattaya for the final day of celebrations.

Thai and foreign tourists joined the water festivities throughout the day, while MAIYARAP, INDIGO, and SPF kept the beachfront crowd going with live performances. Continued … 

flydubai to launch daily Bangkok flights from July

UAE carrier flydubai has announced it will start daily flights to Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok from July 1, marking its second destination in Thailand after Krabi.

The service will operate from Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport and will strengthen travel links between Dubai and Southeast Asia. The route will also be operated in partnership with Emirates, allowing passengers smoother connections through Dubai to other global destinations. Continued … 

Thailand’s Krabi Coast from NASA images

Along the western coast of southern Thailand, a series of bright tan beaches lines the Andaman Sea. These sandy expanses fill the gaps between the myriad other features touching the sea, from limestone karst towers to mangroves to built-up areas.

NASA’s OLI (operational land imager) on Landsat 8 captured these images on March 23, 2026, showing part of the coastal area along Thailand’s Krabi Province. These beaches lie about 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Phuket across Ao Phangnga, a bay of the Andaman Sea. The beaches are a tourism hotspot and draw visitors from around the world. Continued … 

Thailand lands five spots on TIME’s 2026 must-visit list

Each year, the travel world looks to TIME’s World’s Greatest Places – a curated list of 100 standout destinations, from hotels and trains to national parks and restaurants, selected by its global network of editors for what’s new, newsworthy, and genuinely worth your time. The 2026 edition puts Thailand firmly on the map – five times over.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the line-up spans a striking mix: DaiDib DaiDee in Nan, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, The Blue Jasmine Train, Khao Yai Art Forest, and Dib Bangkok all made the cut. As TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool notes, the selections “reflect the breadth of the country’s tourism appeal, spanning heritage hospitality, luxury rail travel, and contemporary art.” Continued … 

Natural gas key to Thai economic growth

Natural gas continues to play a pivotal role in global energy systems, even as the world accelerates its transition toward cleaner alternatives. While solar, wind, and biomass are increasingly in the spotlight as part of international efforts to curb rising temperatures, natural gas is still considered a relatively cleaner fossil fuel and a key driver of economic growth.

In Thailand, 70% of natural gas supply comes from the Gulf of Thailand and Myanmar, with the remaining 30% being liquefied natural gas (LNG). Gas accounts for roughly 60% of fuels used in electricity generation. Continued … 

Thai Government launches low-interest green loans

The Thai government is introducing low-interest loan packages through four state financial institutions to support households and businesses in adopting clean energy and reducing the impact of rising fuel and electricity costs. These measures seek to address the energy crisis by improving energy efficiency and enhancing long-term energy security and sustainability.

This initiative encourages households, farmers, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to adopt clean energy and energy-saving technologies. The four participating state financial institutions offer the following programs: Continued … 

Global heating threatens life expectancy and economic stability

Humanity has spent more than a century pushing life expectancy steadily upward, lifting the global average from just 32 years in 1900 to around 73 years today, thanks largely to vaccines, medical advances, and stronger public health systems. But that long-running achievement is now being shaken by the intensifying effects of global heating.

The world is moving from an era defined by longer lives into one in which simply living well is becoming harder, as extreme heat emerges as a silent killer. The World Health Organization estimates that between 2030 and 2050, climate change will cause around 250,000 additional deaths each year from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea, and heat stroke. Continued … 

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Wednesday’s news-April 1

As today is April Fool’s Day, Expat News cannot verify that every article in today’s news is not a trick.
  • Wild elephant herd at Pa La-U waterfall/To strictly enforce 10 key traffic offenses/Ride-Sharing Platforms Legally Accountable for Safety/Anzac Day celebration/Chiang Mai Wildfire Disaster Zones/4,750 ‘hotspots’ detected
  • THE IRAN WAR: Thailand readies fuel rationing plan/Thai Food Exports Fall/War and Oil Drag Tourist Targets/Energy shock rattles ASEAN economies/Private couriers raise fees
  • ECONOMY: Private sector urges economic action/Microsoft Invests $1 billion/DIY giants losing momentum/Bangkok Motor Show, after the fuel shock
  • TOURISM: Thailand welcomes 9.17M foreign visitors/Stronger baht hurts travel/How China Is Remaking Thai Tourism/Couple from USA Found Dead
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

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Wild elephant herd spotted at Pa La-U waterfall

Wild elephants were spotted gathering at the Pa La-U reservoir in Kaeng Krachan National Park yesterday, with officials counting at least 32 animals at the water’s edge and in the surrounding area.

The elephants were seen in the early evening as the light began to fade. Officials said some were drinking from the reservoir, while others were feeding on aquatic plants and grass nearby. More elephants were also seen moving deeper inside the forest, meaning the full size of the herd could not be confirmed. Continued … 

Thailand to strictly enforce 10 key traffic offenses from today

Under the upgraded road safety measures, traffic laws will now be enforced more strictly, with the key aim of reducing accidents, ensuring concrete enforcement, and building traffic discipline among the public.

Previously, the Traffic Management Center of the Royal Thai Police had laid out its operations in phases to give people time to adjust to the law. It first introduced a “warning before fine” measure to raise public awareness of traffic laws, and that easing period ended yesterday. Continued … 

Thai Ride-Sharing Platforms Now Legally Accountable for Passenger Safety

Thailand’s digital transport landscape entered a new era of regulation yesterday, as the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) enforces a landmark mandate shifting legal responsibility onto ride-sharing platforms.

Under the new “Ride-Sharing Proclamation,” platforms are no longer classified as mere intermediaries or “matching services” between drivers and passengers. Instead, they are now legally obligated to implement rigorous vetting, screening, and active supervision of all services from the point of origin. Continued … 

Anzac Day celebration in Kanchanaburi April 25

Anzac Day is an important occasion for Australian and New Zealand communities around the world, and we aim to bring together local expatriates and the wider community to honor and reflect on this significant day. The dawn service at Hellfire Pass will be the only official dawn service in Thailand and it is jointly hosted by the Australian and New Zealand governments.

Hellfire Pass is an important section of the historic Burma-Thailand railway and stands as a powerful reminder of the hardships endured by allied prisoners of war and Asian laborers during World War II. Over 60,000 allied prisoners worked on the railway, with approximately 12,500 lost lives, including British, Australian, Dutch, American, and tens of thousands of Asian laborers.

Chiang Mai Declares Wildfire Disaster Zones

Chiang Mai has declared wildfire disaster zones in two districts, as worsening forest fires and haze continue to impact northern areas, prompting authorities to accelerate emergency assistance and recovery efforts.

Provincial officials have designated Samoeng and Hot as disaster-affected areas and emergency assistance zones to speed up support for residents affected by the ongoing crisis. The move enables faster deployment of aid, damage assessments, and rehabilitation measures in communities facing significant disruption. Continued … 

Record 4,750 ‘hotspots’ detected across Thailand

Satellite data shows a record surge in hotspots across Thailand, with 4,750 detected in a single day, most in forested areas, the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reported yesterday.

A hotspot is a thermal anomaly, often a heat source, that can indicate a potential fire. Hotspots are derived from multi-spectral satellite data. According to GISTDA, analysis of data from the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system on March 30 showed Thailand’s hotspot count hitting a new high. Continued … 

Thailand readies fuel rationing plan if energy crisis hits Level 3

Thailand may have to impose fuel rationing if the Middle East-driven energy crisis worsens to Level 3, with officials saying contingency plans are already in place if crude can no longer be imported from the region and domestic demand outstrips refinery capacity.

Authorities currently assess the situation at Level 2.2 on a three-tier scale, indicating the disruption is unlikely to ease within a month and could still worsen depending on the fighting. Continued … 

Thai Food Exports Fall as Middle East War Hits Global Trade

Thai food exports fell by 10.5% in the first two months of 2026, with further declines expected as the Middle East war begins to disrupt global trade routes from March. Exports were valued at B202.1 billion, reflecting weak global demand, rising costs and growing trade restrictions.

The conflict is expected to severely affect shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for goods դեպի Gulf markets. Wisit Limluecha, vice chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Processed Food and Future Food Committee, said yesterday that exports would continue to contract in the first quarter. Continued … 

War and Oil Drag Thailand’s Tourist Targets Down

Thailand has downgraded its 2026 foreign tourist arrival forecast to 32.14 million visitors and projected revenue to 1.52 trillion baht, as the ripple effects of the US–Iran war rewrite the economics of international travel and push the kingdom into uncertain territory.

The Tourism Confidence Index for the first quarter of 2026 — drawn from a survey of 740 operators across all regions — registered 81, a meaningful recovery from the 72 recorded in the previous quarter, yet still well below the 83 of a year ago. Continued … 

Hormuz energy shock rattles economies across ASEAN markets

Since the outbreak of the Iran war in late February, the market capitalization of companies across the ASEAN region has shrunk by at least US$216.9 billion (about 7.1 trillion baht), with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz emerging as a major factor.

Nikkei Asia reported that the combined market capitalization of some 3,500 non-financial companies in Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Vietnam stood at US$1.92 trillion as of March 26, down 10.2% from Feb. 27, the day before the United States and Israel began attacking Iran. Continued … 

Thailand’s three private couriers raise fees as oil costs soar

Three private delivery companies – J&T Express, Flash Express, and KEX – announced a simultaneous 3-baht increase in delivery charges per parcel effective today, after persistently high oil prices drove up operating costs and directly affected the delivery business.

This adjustment has been made across the industry, with operators saying it is a temporary measure to cope with higher fuel costs while maintaining service quality and business continuity. Continued … 

Private sector urges urgent economic action

Business leaders have welcomed Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s new cabinet, expressing hope for a more effective response to a range of economic challenges, from surging fuel prices to broader issues affecting the Thai economy.

Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said the private sector is confident that the new cabinet will perform its duties effectively and is eager to work closely with the government to tackle the challenges. Continued … 

Microsoft Invests $1 billion to Boost AI in Thailand

Thailand is stepping up efforts to become a regional artificial intelligence hub, after Microsoft pledged a $1 billion investment over the next two years to strengthen digital infrastructure and skills development.

The announcement was made yesterday following a meeting at Government House in Bangkok between Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Microsoft President and Vice Chairman Brad Smith. The investment is expected to enhance the country’s digital competitiveness and improve public service efficiency. Continued … 

Why are Thailand’s DIY giants losing momentum?

Home improvement is one of the most – if not the most – cyclical of all retail categories, and the one most susceptible to weak consumer confidence. So, it is hardly surprising that, as Thailand’s DIY market, the biggest in Southeast Asia, struggles with weak consumer confidence, household debt, rising energy costs, and an otherwise choppy macroeconomic backdrop, retailers are getting less productivity out of their giant warehouses.

Still, they keep adding stores, which means same-store sales will continue to decline and competition for customers will intensify. As material costs rise, that will hurt profits, too. Both the top and bottom lines are being squeezed. Continued … 

The Bangkok Motor Show, after the fuel shock

The Bangkok International Motor Show still knows how to stage desire. This year’s edition, running from March 25 to April 5 at IMPACT Challenger, has all the familiar pleasures intact: polished bodywork under hard lights, crowds drifting from stand to stand, and the quiet thrill of being close to machines designed to look smoother, sharper, and more complete than everyday life usually allows.

The excitement is still there. What feels different now is the meaning attached to it. The car no longer arrives as a simple symbol of freedom or prestige. It enters a more unsettled conversation, one shaped by energy anxiety, changing consumer habits, and a growing curiosity about what driving is supposed to look like next. Continued … 

Thailand welcomes 9.17M foreign visitors to March 29, down 2.3%

Thailand recorded 9,174,586 foreign tourist arrivals between Jan. 1 and March 29, a decline of 2.3% year on year, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The ministry estimated foreign visitor spending over the period at around 446,765 million baht.

Natreeya Taweewong, permanent secretary of the ministry, said that in the past week (March 23-29) travel demand eased as short-haul markets wound down after the Eid al-Fitr holiday period, while long-haul travel also moved into the tail end of the season. She noted, however, that long-haul demand has shown signs of improving, as some travelers adjust to more direct flight routings from Europe to Thailand. Continued … 

Stronger baht hurts travel

The tourism sector could lose 15%-17% of revenue if the baht strengthens beyond 30 per US dollar, according to a former governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Meanwhile, the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) forecast that bookings for the Songkran holiday this year could drop by 5%-10% year-on-year.

Speaking at the THA’s annual general meeting yesterday, Yuthasak Supasorn, chairman of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand and the former TAT governor, said three scenarios were prepared for the baht and the potential impact on Thai tourism should the Middle East crisis persist. Continued … 

Beyond Beaches: How China Is Remaking Thai Tourism

On a Tuesday morning at a heritage house in Bangkok’s old quarter, a queue of young Chinese women in elaborate Thai traditional dress waits patiently for a photographer to finish composing the perfect shot. They have not come to see a temple. They have not booked a beach. They have come, in the most contemporary sense of the word, to experience Thailand — and to post about it.

That scene, replicated across the country from Chiang Mai’s night bazaars to the silk villages of the northeast, encapsulates a transformation reshaping Thailand’s most important source market. Continued … 

Couple from USA Found Dead in Pattaya Hotel Room

Two American nationals have been found dead inside a hotel room in the Jomtien area of Pattaya, with police investigating the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Officers were called to the scene at around 11 am yesterday.

The bodies of a man and a woman were found on the floor of a third-floor room, lying together. Police said initial assessments suggest they had been dead for three to four days. Authorities identified the pair as Richard Carl Speth Jr., 85, and Kelly Marie Bennett, 65, both from the United States. Continued … 

Historic Moon mission set for launch

Today, three men and one woman are set to embark on the first crewed journey to the Moon since 1972, a landmark odyssey that aims to launch the United States into a new era of space exploration. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) mission dubbed Artemis 2 has been years in the making after facing repeated setbacks, but is finally scheduled to take off from Florida as early as today at 6.24 pm (2224 GMT). Continued … 

At gas stations, Americans say they’re ‘paying the price’ of Iran war

At a gas station in the Washington suburbs, drivers confronted the harsh domestic repercussions of the war on Iran, as spiking fuel prices hit household budgets hard. Jeanne Williams, 83, had just driven 160 kilometers from Richmond, Virginia, where she was visiting her elder sister. “That is horrible,” she said, stunned by the prices visible on the gas station’s LED board. Continued … 

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Friday’s news-April 25

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New Don Mueang-Hua Hin bus schedule/Plane crashes near Cha Am/Wellness Tourism Thrives in Thailand/Anzac Day services/Chinese steel fails second safety test/Army Conscripts Battling Drug Addiction/Bangkok’s ‘Buzz’ vs. ‘Livability’/Thailand threatens vapers/Bomb attack in Pattani/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Nominee inspection strategy/ASEAN to team up on tariffs/ASEAN to strengthen US ties/Thai tech sector braces/Data centers to boost Thai economy/Southern economic corridor still pursued/TOURISM: New Airport Security Rules/Collapsing the 60 days visa exemption/Subsidized flights pitched/Thai Spa Association Highlights Growth Opportunities/2 foreign tourists found dead/Banned from taking photos underwater/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Hidden Codes On 7-Eleven Meal Boxes/Hidden beach paradise/CLIMATE THAILAND: Three Thai universities hailed/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

Transport Co. to adjust bus schedule and add stops on Don Mueang-Hua Hin route starting May 1

The Transport Co. (Thailand’s state transport corporation) has announced improvements to the Don Mueang-Hua Hin bus route, including a revised timetable and additional pick-up and drop-off points. These changes will take effect from May 1 as part of the corporation’s efforts to enhance passenger convenience and optimize revenue from both passenger transport and parcel services.

Transport Co. reviewed the feedback since the launch of the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route on March 8, a 216-kilometer route with a fare of 200 baht. Passengers have requested changes to the schedule and additional stops to improve the travel experience. In response, Transport Co. will revise the timetable and introduce new stops to meet the demand. Continued …

Six police officers killed as plane crashes into the sea near Cha Am

Six police officers on board a twin-engine turbo-prop aircraft were killed when it crashed into the sea off Cha Am in Phetchaburi province this morning. A rescue team found one survivor and rushed him to Hua Hin Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police Lt. Gen. Archayon Kraithong, said that the de Havilland DHC 6-400 Twin Otter plane was on a trial flight, in preparation for a parachute exercise in the Hua Hin district of Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Continued …

Chiva-Som Highlighted as Wellness Tourism Thrives in Thailand

In the third season of The White Lotus we got to see therapists clad in lilac pajamas kneading supine guests with a heated herbal ball. We got to see Walton Goggins try “stress management meditation.” We got to see a lot more than that.

Thailand, “The Land of Smiles,” and wellness are now so closely associated that they’ve reached their satirical apogee. Never mind that many Thai healing practices go back more than 2,500 years, Mike White’s “funny look at death and Eastern religion and spirituality” will draw more bandwagon westerners, not less. As a result, luxury hotels across the country are investing heavily in wellness tourism, an industry worth $35 billion to Thailand in 2024, with a growth rate of 8.5%, according to the Global Wellness Institute. Continued …

Crowds join Anzac Day services for Australia, New Zealand forces

Crowds of Australians and New Zealanders gathered just before dawn today to observe solemn Anzac Day ceremonies, but one service was briefly interrupted by booing – with a local politician blaming a “known neo-Nazi”.

Anzac Day originally marks the ill-fated World War I landing of Australia and New Zealand Army Corps troops at Gallipoli, in what is now Turkey, in 1915. Facing dug-in German-backed Ottoman forces, more than 10,000 Australian and New Zealand servicemen were killed in the Allied expedition. Continued …

Chinese steel fails second safety test in Thai collapse probe

The steel scandal behind the collapse of Thailand’s State Audit Office (SAO) building has deepened after fresh test results revealed another failure by Chinese manufacturer Xin Ke Yuan Steel — marking the second time its materials have failed to meet Thai industrial standards.

Industry Minister Akanat Promphan confirmed the findings, citing results from the Iron and Steel Institute of Thailand (ISIT). The substandard steel sample was taken from the collapsed SAO building on April 11 and subjected to rigorous testing. Continued …

80% of Thai Army Conscripts Battling Drug Addiction

In a startling revelation, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong announced that up to 80% of men conscripted for compulsory military service in Thailand each year are grappling with drug addiction. The minister called for urgent discussions to address this pressing issue and formulate effective rehabilitation strategies.

Thailand’s military conscription, dictated by the 1954 Military Service Act, involves an annual lottery system where men aged 21 and older draw cards — black cards mean exemption, while red cards require two years of service. This year, it is estimated that of the approximately 80,000 conscripted individuals, the overwhelming majority are drug users, and a concerning 10% are severely addicted. Continued …

Bangkok’s ‘Buzz’ vs. ‘Livability’

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has launched a major initiative to redefine Bangkok’s future, urging a shift from a city known for its “buzz” to one celebrated for its “livability.”

Speaking at a key planning seminar, he highlighted the need for a strategic overhaul to address the city’s persistent inefficiencies and improve the quality of life for all residents. The governor emphasized that while Bangkok attracts tourists with its vibrant atmosphere, it lags behind regional rivals like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur in terms of livability. Continued …

Thailand threatens vapers with tougher legal action

The Thai government will take tougher action against e-cigarette smokers, who can be charged with receiving smuggled products, according to a spokesman.

The government has stepped up suppression of e-cigarettes and related products, covering not only smugglers and distributors but also smokers, deputy government spokesman Anukul Prueksa-anurak said yesterday. Continued …

Bomb attack in Pattani leaves seven injured in volunteer vehicle

A bomb attack targeted a vehicle belonging to a volunteer defense force in Thung Yang Daeng district, Pattani province, injuring seven personnel. The incident occurred Wednesday when the armored pickup truck was crossing the Pakuh Bridge toward the Khomis market.

Initial assessments indicated that they all the injured suffered from hearing impairment and chest tightness. The injured personnel have been transported to a medical facility for treatment. Continued …

  • 4 Indians caught smuggling hydroponic weed from Bangkok – Continued …
  • Brit Caught with Cocaine Stash While Overstaying Visa on Samui – Continued …
  • Uzbek Man Arrested in Pattaya for Attempting to Exchange Counterfeit US Dollars – Continued …
  • Illegal Russian Tour Guides in Hot Water Amid Phuket Police Sting – Continued …
  • Pakistani man arrested for identity theft – Continued … 

Thai officials revise nominee inspection strategy

The Ministry of Commerce has revised its strategy for inspecting the use of Thai nominees by foreign business operators by targeting six high-risk sectors.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Business Development (DBD), said the agency is stepping up investigations of entities suspected of using Thai nationals as nominees to hide foreign ownership. Continued …

PM: ASEAN to team up on US tariffs

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has agreed to work together to increase its members’ bargaining power in dealing with the United States’ tariff hikes, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said.

Speaking on the last day of her two-day official visit to Cambodia, she said yesterday that Washington’s reciprocal tariffs on the bloc’s exports were among a range of topics discussed with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. Continued …

ASEAN seeks to strengthen US economic ties amid tariffs

ASEAN has reiterated its commitment to multilateral trade principles and does not plan to retaliate against U.S. tariff actions. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste convened a special virtual meeting of economic ministers to discuss a coordinated response to the U.S.’s reciprocal tariff

The meeting emphasized the importance of maintaining robust trade and investment flows in the region and protecting global supply chains, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises and the agricultural sector. Continued …

Thai tech sector braces for new US export rules

The Thai technology industry is preparing for the impact of new tiered U.S. AI chip export restrictions set to take effect on May 15.

Siam AI, a leading cloud artificial intelligence service provider, said it might consider expanding its cloud service to other countries when it expands, if import restrictions on AI chips tighten in the future. Local IT product distributors are stepping up measures to comply with U.S. and Chinese sanctions. Continued …

Data centers to boost Thai economy with over 320 billion baht

Thailand’s data center industry is projected to expand by 13.9 times between 2023 and 2028, attracting initial investments of approximately 320 billion baht.

Phongprapha Napapruekchat, a research analyst at Krungthai COMPASS, attributed the rapid expansion to significant investments from leading global technology firms and regional data center service providers, including Microsoft, Google, TikTok, CtrlS, NEXTDC and Beijing Haoyang. Continued …

Southern economic corridor still pursued as logistics boon

The government is pushing ahead with the plan to develop the southern economic corridor (SEC), an economic and transport infrastructure development project that will provide a better connection between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, while facilitating more vigorous economic development.

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri confirmed this while exchanging opinions with public and private parties from Surat Thani, Ranong, Chumphon, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces at a brainstorming session yesterday in Surat Thani. Continued …

New Airport Security Rules for Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols Come into Force

Thailand has introduced new regulations governing how travelers can carry liquids, gels, and aerosols (LGAs) in their hand luggage at all public airports across the country.

The announcement clarifies the definition of “liquids, gels, and aerosols”, encompassing a wide array of items from beverages and sauces to cosmetics, toiletries, and pressurized containers like sprays and foams. Even substances with both solid and liquid components, such as mascara and lip balm, fall under these regulations. Continued …

Collapsing the 60 days visa exemption only a partial answer

The Thai premier has called for a reduction in the two months’ visa exempt stamp that currently applies to over 90% of all tourist arrivals. She is concerned about the abuses that lead to foreigners defaulting on work permit regulations or indulging in nominee shareholding deals and allied iniquities.

Adith Chairrattananon, honorary secretary general for Thai travel agents, has agreed that gray businesses require preventive measures such as reducing the visa-free stay for Chinese travelers because of exploitation of loopholes in the rules. He suggests “15-30 days” should be enough for bona fide Chinese vacationers. Continued …

Subsidized flights pitched to revive Chinese visits

Thailand is no longer one of Chinese tourists’ top five preferred destinations, a new study has shown, prompting industry executives to propose using subsidized flights to reverse the decline.

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta) is asking the government to invest 320 million baht to subsidize 1,000 chartered flights from 20 second-tier cities in China for three months, hoping to create word-of-mouth buzz to restore declining confidence. Continued …

Thai Spa Association Highlights Growth Opportunities in Wellness Tourism

Thailand’s health tourism sector has experienced remarkable growth of 120%, generating a total revenue of $12.34 billion (431 billion baht), according to a recent announcement by the Thai Spa Assn.

This significant growth was revealed during the launch of the first Food & Hospitality Thailand 2025 event, which coincided with the opening of the ASEAN Wellness Tourism Congress 2025 and the 8th Thailand Spa & Well-being Awards 2025. Continued …

2 foreign tourists found dead in Phuket hotels

A holiday in paradise ended in tragedy yesterday after a 52-year-old Swedish tourist was found dead in his hotel room in Patong, prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding his sudden death.

In a separate but similarly grim incident, rescue workers from the Kusoldharm Foundation were called out again late last night, this time to a hotel on Soi Saensabai, where another foreign man was found dead in his room. Continued …

Diving trainees, instructors banned from taking photos underwater

Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is prohibiting scuba-diving trainees and instructors from taking photos underwater during their training and examination dives.

The Royal Gazette has published the ban, which is a part of a new ministerial order signed by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on. According to the order, the ban is aimed at protecting corals, which have been critically damaged by diving activities. Continued … 

Know What These Hidden Codes On 7-Eleven Meal Boxes Mean

When tourists touch down in Thailand, it’s usually with the intent to savour every bite of street food they can get their hands on, but one unexpected name tends to steal focus for many visitors. The convenience chain 7-Eleven.

But for travellers exploring Thailand this summer, the ubiquitous 7-Eleven stores offer more than just convenience, they’re gateways to authentic Thai cuisine at an affordable price point and with a staggering variety that allows visitors to try many new things under one roof. Continued …

Could this hidden beach paradise be the next Phuket?

For those seeking a quieter, more intimate alternative to Phuket’s buzz, the Satun Archipelago offers a pristine and serene alternative. Located in Thailand’s southernmost province, near the Malaysian border, this beautiful archipelago is gaining recognition as a must-visit destination for eco-conscious travelers.

The archipelago comprises about 50 islands under the protection of Tarutao National Marine Park, known for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and tranquil beaches. Continued …

Three Thai universities hailed for environmental work

Chulalongkorn University, Mahidol University, and Burapha University have been honored for their innovations and environmental work in the THE Awards Asia 2025.

THE Awards Asia, sponsored by Times Higher Education, recognizes outstanding leadership and institutional performance, and celebrates excellence in higher education on the continent. Continued …

Work starts on long-delayed $9-billion casino in Japan

A quarter-century after gambling resorts were first proposed in Japan, officials have finally broken ground on construction of what could become Asia’s highest-grossing casino. Continued …

Boeing ready to resell jets as tariffs hit China trade

Boeing is looking to resell potentially dozens of planes locked out of China by tariffs after repatriating a third jet to the United States rather than store it without willing buyers. Continued …

Tesla sales plunge in EU as Musk takes flak

Tesla electric car sales in Europe plunged in the first three months of the year, industry data showed yesterday, in a fresh blow to its boss Elon Musk who has been criticized for his work in U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. Continued …

 

New Schedule: Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
Uncategorized

Friday’s news-April 26

Today’s news: Temperatures in the capital could reach 41°C/Heavy rain forecast for mid-May/Rise in Malaria Cases/Anzac Day ceremonies/PM lauds effort to clear Rama II/Private hospital fined Bt100,000/Defense volunteer killed in Yala/Economy: No wage hike on Labor Day/Study on land bridge industrial estate/Tourism: Overcrowding in Pattaya and Phuket/Krabi, Phi Phi Face Water Shortage/Mobile Toilet Trucks for Pattaya/Thai Vietjet fares from just 100 baht/Thailand Experience: Phuket workcation/9 things to know about Bangkok/One Of The Top Destinations For Americans/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Temperatures in the capital could reach 41°C today

The sun will be perpendicular to Bangkok today, with shadows exactly under their respective objects at 12.16pm due to this phenomenon, the Thai Meteorological Department said.

The department forecast a hot day with isolated thundershowers for Greater Bangkok on Friday, with maximum temperatures of 37 to 41°C. It advised people to avoid staying outdoors for extended periods to prevent heatstroke. Continued …

Heavy rain, storms forecast for mid-May as dry season nears end

Now that the dry season is drawing to a close, Thailand can expect to be hit by at least three storms by mid-May, the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) said.

Surasee Kittimonthon, ONWR secretary-general, said at a recent monitoring and assessment meeting on water situations that the dry season is expected to conclude by the end of April. The current water level across the country stands at 45,099 million cubic meters, approximately 55% of capacity and though it is 2% less than the same period last year, it is still satisfactory. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Rise in Malaria Cases Spurs Action in Thailand, PKK affected

Thailand’s Tak province is seeing a surge in malaria cases, according to the Department of Disease Control (DDC). Since January, 2,913 infections have been identified, largely among foreign residents accounting for 60% of the cases. Other regions affected include Mae Hong Son, Kanchana Buri, Ranong and Prachuap Khiri Khan.

DDC Chief, Thongchai Keeratihuttayakorn confirmed a comprehensive strategy is underway to handle the increase, especially in the border provinces. Health officials are now on high alert to ensure early detection and prompt treatment to prevent further spread. Continued …

Anzac Day ceremonies held at Death Railway in Kanchanaburi

Anzac Day was marked on Thursday with special remembrance rites in Kanchanaburi, honoring soldiers who died building the Death Railway in slave-like conditions during World War II.

Presiding over the ceremony were Australian Ambassador Angela Macdonald, her New Zealand counterpart Jonathan Kings, along with deputy chief of Australia’s Joint Operations, Rear Admiral Justin Jones. Also present were representatives of the Thai armed forces, other embassies, as well as descendants of the prisoners of war who lost their lives on the Death Railway. Continued …

PM lauds ‘team effort’ to clear Rama II Road

The prime minister has complimented the government and private agencies on improving traffic flow along Rama II Road, while all construction work there is expected to be completed by next year.

Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke said on Wednesday that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin admired the collaboration between state and private agencies in resolving the traffic problems on Rama II Road, allowing smoother journeys for motorists. Continued …

Private hospital fined Bt100,000 for refusing emergency treatment

A private hospital in Samut Prakan has been fined 100,000 baht by the Emergency Medicine Committee (EMC) for refusing to treat a critically injured patient, who later died after being rushed to another hospital.

The patient was a police officer who had been struck by a vehicle while he was performing his duty at a location not far from the private hospital, the name of which was withheld by the committee. Continued …

Defense volunteer killed, five others injured by insurgents in Yala

A defense volunteer was killed and five others were injured in a shooting, followed by an explosion, in Bannang Sata district of Thailand’s southern province of Yala today.

According to police reports, Mada-oh Waeyeegao, a defense volunteer, was shot by the pillion passenger of a motorcycle, as he was riding another motorcycle back to his home after attending a prayer at a masjid in his village in Bacho subdistrict. He died at the scene. Continued …

No wage hike on Labor Day

The government will not raise the minimum daily wage to 400 baht on Labor Day as previously announced. Instead, it will wait for the results of a tripartite committee on May 14.

Karom Polpornklang, deputy government spokesman, confirmed yesterday that the minimum wage increase will not take effect on May 1. Before the new wage kicks in, it first needs to be approved at the 22nd tripartite wage committee meeting scheduled for May 14, he said. Continued …

Study on land bridge industrial estate expected soon

A study on the construction of a new industrial estate to support the government’s proposed land bridge project is expected to be completed in 3-4 months, says the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT).

Veeris Ammarapala, governor of the IEAT, did not elaborate on where the industrial complex will be built, saying only it will be developed into a “sustainable and eco-friendly industrial estate”. Continued …

Is this what tourism is like in Phuket?

Officials Concerned Over Potential Overcrowding in Pattaya and Phuket

  • Phuket – 118 foreign visitors per local resident
  • Pattaya – 99 foreign visitors per local resident

The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations has issued a warning to the Thai government alerting that the level of tourism has reached a critical point. According to forecasts, the number of foreign visitors in 2024 will be about 40 million, similar to the last pre-COVID year, 2019. This could strain both local environments and tourist experiences.

Phuket and Pattaya are the cities most affected, with 118 and 99 foreign visitors for every local resident, respectively, as per a study by MoneyTransfers. But this data is already several months old and the actual ratios could be even higher. Chris Flynn, CEO of the World Tourism Assn., suggested that Thai officials appear to have not foreseen the toll the influx could take. Continued …

Krabi Faces Water Shortage, No tap Water for Phi Phi Islands

A severe freshwater crisis has hit Thailand’s southern province of Krabi, leaving Phi Phi Islands without tap water. In several other regions, residents receive tap water only on alternate days.

The escalating crisis resulted in the suspension of water services by Waterhill Co., which operates a reservoir on Phi Phi islands, as raw water levels reach critically low. Continued …

Pattaya City Invests 30 Million Baht in Mobile Toilet Trucks for Tourism Boost

Pattaya City has spent 30 million baht on six new mobile toilet trucks to facilitate tourists, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities during events. Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai announced the acquisition of the new vehicles yesterday.

This will augment the existing fleet of three older toilet trucks, which, due to their large size and age, were becoming inadequate to accommodate the rising number of tourists, particularly during large events. Continued …

Thai Vietjet unveils ‘April’s Last Calls’ with fares from just 100 baht

Thai Vietjet has launched its April’s Last Calls promotion, with fares starting from 100 baht (exclusive of taxes and fees) across its entire domestic and international routes.

Bookings for this deal are open until April 30, with the window to jet off spanning from June 1 to Feb. 28 next year (except on public holidays). Get ready to traverse the skies with Thai Vietjet’s extensive network, encompassing the stunning landscapes of Thailand and beyond. Continued …

Phuket workcation: paradise with a side of productivity (is it worth it?)

Dreaming of working remotely under swaying palm trees with the sound of the ocean waves as your background music? Phuket, the “Pearl of the Andaman”, beckons digital nomads with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and surprisingly good infrastructure for remote work in Thailand.

But before you book your one-way ticket, let’s delve into the pros and cons of a Phuket workcation to see if it fits your needs. Continued …

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

9 things you should know before visiting Bangkok

I moved to Bangkok in 1999, a time when most visitors to Thailand reluctantly did a night in this megacity before bee-lining to an island or the north. Synonymous with traffic jams, pollution and urban sprawl, the Thai capital was largely seen as an unwanted but obligatory stopover.

Decades later, things have changed and Bangkok is now the destination of choice for many visitors – with good reason. Easier to get around and cleaner than ever, with a vibrant eating and drinking scene that caters to just about every budget, and an enviable spread of intriguing sights and fantastic-value shopping, the city has more to offer than ever before. Continued …

Why This City In Thailand Is One Of The Top Destinations For Americans

If you’re just gearing up for your summer vacation and are scrambling to figure out where to go before everything sells out, I’ve got good news for you.

Cozycozy, a price comparison and booking platform exclusively for travelers, just released a ranking of the top five most popular cities with American travelers this summer. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news

Global Economy Set To Stay On A Roll For The Rest Of The Year

The global economy is likely to carry its solid momentum for the rest of the year and into 2025, defying earlier expectations of a slowdown, according to a Reuters poll of economists who said stronger growth than forecast was more likely than weakness. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

 

Hua Hin Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

bangkok, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News – March 8

  • Why International Women’s Day matters/
  • Inflation slows, but electricity, cooking gas costs likely to go up/
  • Anzac Day services in Kanchanaburi April 25/
  • Mask use urged as haze fastens grip/
  • Areas of three national parks closed due to fire risks/
  • Cloud-seeding to be used to control fires in Thailand’s western forests/
  • Wild elephants flee forest fires in eastern Thailand/
  • Foreigners picked to buoy property market/
  • Thai shippers’ council expects rebound in export market this year/
  • PTTEP grabs two new oil exploration licenses in Gulf/
  • Thai seller of rubber duck calendar found guilty of royal defamation/
  • Foreign Teacher Charged After Son’s Friend Drowned at Sea/
  • WHAUP rooftop solar panel business set to surge/
  • Thailand’s missing macaques: Chinese medicine or US labs to blame?/
  • Thailand gives GOAT Ronnie O’Sullivan great reception – he doesn’t disappoint/
  • Tourism: Chinese are back on Koh Samui – tourists from Chengdu given special welcome/People hurry to snap up subsidized hotel rooms/German Tourist Drowns on Samui Island/
  • Thailand Experience: How To Make The Most Of Your Thailand Trip?/Thailand: From tiny islands to wellness retreats, here’s why you should visit/Thailand’s Tarutao National Park Spans 51 Islands of Natural Contemplation/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Why International Women’s Day matters

Today is International Women’s Day.

It has been observed by the United Nations since 1975 and celebrated by many countries before then. Yet, if one looks on social media, many still argue that International Women’s Day should not be celebrated for different reasons. (“Why is this a thing? Why is there an international women’s day but not an international men’s day?”)

But the most compelling reason that even feminists may side with is: why should International Women’s Day be celebrated, when women’s rights should be advocated for every day, not just on March 8 of each year? To this I say, yes, women’s rights should be advocated for every day, but that does not mean that we should not dedicate a special day to commemorate it. Continued …

Inflation slows, but electricity, cooking gas costs likely to go up

Thailand’s average headline inflation in February was at 3.79%, the lowest in 13 months, following a drop in fuel prices, the Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) said on Tuesday.

The average headline inflation is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which in February dropped from the previous month by 0.12% to 108.05.

The office also expected electricity bills and the price of cooking gas to go up in March due to continued economic recovery, especially in the tourism sector. Continued …

Anzac Day services in Kanchanaburi April 25

The upcoming Anzac Day memorial service to be held on Tuesday, April 25, starts with a dawn service at 5:30am, while the public will be welcome to enter the complex from 3am onward. The service will be followed by the traditional Gunfire Breakfast, with refreshments and snacks donated by Australian-Kiwi communities here in Thailand.

The Anzac Day Dawn Service at Hellfire Pass is the only official memorial service in Thailand, and is jointly hosted by both the Australian and New Zealand embassies.

Located in Kanchanaburi, the Hellfire Pass Interpretive Center is a memorial site established and maintained by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Australian government. It is dedicated to those who were forced to work and build the railway connecting Burma and Thailand during the Second World War. Over 60,000 Allied prisoners worked on the railway, with approximately 12,500 lost lives, including British, Australian, Dutch, American and tens of thousands of Asian laborers (Romusha).

For decades, this place has become a significant commemoration site for Anzac Day – a memorial service that honors and acknowledges all Australians and New Zealanders who served and sacrificed their lives in war.

Mask use urged as haze fastens grip

A pulmonologist from Siriraj Hospital has suggested people wear masks to protect themselves from dust pollution, as the number of patients with respiratory diseases continues to rise, especially among children.

Meanwhile, 48 provinces were found to have ultra-fine dust particles (PM2.5) levels above the safe threshold on Tuesday.

Dr. Nitipatana Chierakul, head of the Respiratory Disease and Tuberculosis Division at the Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, said hospitals nationwide have seen a spike in cases that began in December. Continued …

Areas of three national parks closed due to fire risks

Areas of three national parks in Kanchanaburi in the west of Thailand were declared off limits due to the risk of fire. They are the Sai Yok, Khao Laem and Lam Klong Ngu parks.

Helicopters did 38 sorties carrying 19,000 liters of water to douse flames.

People rearing buffaloes, in particular, were ordered to stay away from affected areas. – Thai Rath

Cloud-seeding to be used to control fires in Thailand’s western forests

The Royal Rain-making and Agricultural Aviation Department is expected to be cloud-seeding from this Saturday until next Monday to help contain fires in Thailand’s western forests, which appear to be out of control.

Atthaphon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said yesterday that may hot spots have been detected in the forests north of the Srinagarind Dam in Kanchanaburi.

He said that fires have now spread to dry evergreen woodland, which is only accessible after several hours of trekking through the forests. Continued …

Wild elephants flee forest fires in eastern Thailand

It is not just forest land that has been affected by fires in Bo Rai district of Trat in eastern Thailand.

Wild elephants were also fleeing the impact of the fires that had burned over 2,500 rai in the Nonsri and Dan Chumphon areas.

Pictures of almost 20 elephants show them were trumpeting their displeasure at having to leave their regular stomping grounds in two areas. – Siam Rath

Foreigners picked to buoy property market

Despite the economic recovery, the property market this year may depend heavily on foreign demand, as negative factors still affect domestic buyers, according to economists and property analysts.

Piyasak Manason, senior vice president of the wealth research department of InnovestX Securities, said property market growth this year would likely slow because of various financial policies.

“When inflation is high, the Bank of Thailand will raise interest rates to cope with it,” he said. “With the termination of the lending-curb easing, which affects lower-end home demand, we do not expect to see a strong real estate market in the near future.” Continued …

Thai shippers’ council expects rebound in export market this year

A weaker baht and improvement in many countries’ production index will boost the Thai export market, the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) says.

TNSC Chairman Chaichan Charoensuk said on Tuesday that Thai export value in February should hit US$22 billion (760.34 billion baht), especially since the baht has weakened to about 34-35 to the dollar.

Thailand’s exports in January were 4.5% less at $20.24 billion (705.45 billion baht) due to an 11% contraction in the Chinese market and a delay in orders for electronic goods. Continued …

PTTEP grabs two new oil exploration licenses in Gulf

PTT Exploration and Production Plc (PTTEP) was awarded exploration and production licenses at two of three new petroleum blocks in the Gulf of Thailand, a move that should pave the way for more domestic oil and gas supply to strengthen the country’s energy security.

The company was awarded the rights for blocks G1/65 and G3/65, while U.S.-based Chevron Offshore (Thailand) was awarded a license for block G2/65, according to the Department of Mineral Fuels. Continued …

Thai seller of rubber duck calendar found guilty of royal defamation

A Thai seller of a rubber ducky calendar has been found guilty of royal defamation. The 26-year-old man, “Tonmai,” was arrested on Dec. 31, 2020, and charged with royal defamation. Now, he will serve two years in prison after being found guilty.

The Taling Chan Criminal Court ruled that the depiction of the rubber duck was a mockery of Thailand’s head of state. According to Prachatai English, the rubber ducks first arrived at pro-democracy demonstrations back in 2020. Continued …

Foreign Teacher Charged After Son’s Friend Drowned at Sea

An American language teacher, 45, was charged with negligent homicide on Tuesday after an eight-year-old boy drowned in the sea of Chumphon province, despite the boy’s parents not wanting to see him charged.

The American teacher was an employee of a local church in Pathio District, Chumphon province. His family, consisting of his wife, son and four children friends of his son, were on a holiday in Thung Zang Bay.

While everyone was relaxing on the beach, his son and Wiwat, 8, were playing in the water. The two boys were holding onto a fish-shaped rubber bouy, meters from the shore when they lost control. The teacher’s son was rescued by a Myanmar worker in time while Wiwat drowned. Continued …

WHAUP rooftop solar panel business set to surge

SET-listed WHA Utilities & Power Plc (WHAUP), which provides utilities under WHA Corp., Thailand’s biggest industrial land developer and operator, expects its rooftop solar panel installation service to grow by 24% to 300 megawatts this year, thanks to greater adoption of clean energy in the industrial sector.

Last year, solar panels installed by WHAUP under private power purchase agreements stood at 133MW.

Rooftop solar panels with an electricity generation capacity of 1MW can lead to a reduction of 700 tons of carbon dioxide a year, so with a combined capacity of 300MW, up to 210,000 tons of carbon dioxide would be cut annually, said Somkiat Masunthasuwun, chief executive of WHAUP. Continued …

Thailand’s missing macaques: Chinese medicine or US labs to blame?

Authorities have blamed the latest monkey smuggling case in Thailand on demand from traditional Chinese medicine – but evidence indicates traffickers supplying U.S. laboratories are the real culprits.

In the latest smuggling case, 47 long-tailed macaques were found caged in a truck stopped by police in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Non Sung district on Monday. Police said the two suspects had confessed, claiming they did know that long-tailed macaques are protected under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act. The suspects had agreed to smuggle the monkeys from Khao Ta Khrong National Park in Ratchaburi to Laos via Nong Khai in exchange for 17,000 baht, investigators said.

Peersasak Paksasuay, director of conservation for Nakhon Ratchasima, said national parks were working with police in Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum and Buri Ram to stop wildlife smuggling. He added that the macaques were destined for China for probable use in Chinese traditional medicine. Continued …

Thailand gives GOAT Ronnie O’Sullivan great reception – he doesn’t disappoint

The highlight of the second day of the Six Red World Snooker Championships 2023 in Pathum Thani was the evening appearance of Ronnie O’Sullivan, widely regarded as the greatest snooker player of all time.

A packed TV arena at the Thammasat Convention Center gave Englishman O’Sullivan a rousing reception, then watched in awe as he stormed into a 4-0 lead against compatriot Jimmy Robertson inside 25 minutes.

But Robertson, 36, was not there to make up the numbers against his 47-year-old opponent. He made the score 4-3 before O’Sullivan closed out the match. Continued …

Chinese are back on Koh Samui – tourists from Chengdu given special welcome

Thailand gave a special welcome back to the first direct flight from China to Koh Samui since the pandemic.

Surat Thani Deputy Gov. Nanthawat Charoenwan and local Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) chief Kanokkitika Kritwuthikorn were on hand with many other officials to welcome a full load of 130 tourists aboard Chengdu Airlines EU 2807.

The auspicious flight – the first direct flight from China to the holiday island in the south of Thailand since February 2020 – was met with much pomp and ceremony. Continued …

People hurry to snap up subsidized hotel rooms

People rushed to book hotels during the first day of the latest phase of the hotel subsidy program, with 112,876 room nights reserved out of 560,000 available under the scheme within six hours.

Tourism Authority of Thailand Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said the value of transactions during the first six hours of availability on Tuesday reached 443 million baht from 112,876 room nights.

Of the total amount, 60% or 273 million baht was paid by the purchaser and 170 million baht (40%) came from the government subsidy. Continued …

German Tourist Drowns on Samui Island

A German tourist drowned near a beach on Samui Island.

Bo Phut Police said they were notified that a male foreign tourist drowned at Chaweng Beach on Monday. Emergency responders and police arrived at the beach.

The man was identified by police as a 58-year-old German man. His body had already been pulled from the water. Continued …

How To Make The Most Of Your Thailand Trip?

The Southeast Asian nation of Thailand is renowned for its delectable cuisine, vibrant culture, and stunning coastline.

Starting in Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, one can visit the Grand Palace, a magnificent complex that has been the home of Thai kings for over 150 years. The palace is surrounded by temples, shrines, and halls, each of which is adorned with intricate carvings, gold leaf, and colorful mosaics. Visitors can also see a statue of the Emerald Buddha made from a single jade block and considered one of Thailand’s most important religious artifacts.

For a unique shopping experience, one can visit the largest open-air marketplace in Thailand, the Chatuchak Weekend Market. With over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to food and antiques, it’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and taste some local street food. Continued …

Thailand: From tiny islands to wellness retreats, here’s why you should visit

A firm favorite with tourists, Thailand is well-known for its glorious white sand beaches, diverse landscapes and exciting nightlife.

But while the beaches of Phuket or the urban sprawl of Bangkok may be the first places that spring to mind when you think of the southeast Asian country, the Tourism Authority of Thailand wants you to look a little further.

“We are encouraging tourists to visit emerging destinations and travel during the weekdays to decongest those destinations, while also reducing environmental and cultural wear and tear. Continued … 

Thailand’s Tarutao National Park Spans 51 Islands of Natural Contemplation

The islands of Tarutao National Park are not the most touristy beaches in beautiful Southern Thailand. These 51 islands have jaw-dropping scenery, yes, but lack the raving full moon parties of Koh PhaNgan, the impossible-to-escape reputation of The Beach filming location on Koh Phi Phi Le, and the 2.3 million vacationers who flocked to Phuket last year in just nine months alone.

With only 238,000 visitors throughout the entire year, Tarutao beckons to adventurous, nature-loving wanderers looking for more than just a party scene studded with bucket-sized cocktails.

Across these archipelagos, you’ll find waterfalls, caves, so many pristine shorelines, trails leading to vistas for sunsets and sunrises, as well as a thought-provoking tribute to the biggest island’s sobering past. Park-goers can explore a self-guided jungle trail to learn about how the government transformed a now-defunct prison into an outdoor museum memorializing all those who struggled and lost their lives onsite, a dark moment in human history that’s been returned to — and reclaimed by — nature. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

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