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Tuesday’s news-July 1

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Be Well Medical Center, Nana Dental Joing Forces/Eight Confirmed Dead at Tissue Factory/Bangkok building collapse/Heavy rain expected across Thailand/ECONOMY: Bangkok Bank Sounds Alarm on Economic Outlook/Thailand requests tariff at 10%/Where trade talks stand/Thai-US tariff talks start on Thursday/Foreign Investors Desert Thai Stocks/Manufacturing production index up/Over 1 million high-skilled jobs needed/12,000 Thai Shops Face Closure/ONE Championship hub to Bangkok/TOURISM: Will ‘quality over quantity’ work?/Geopolitics poses top risk to tourism/34,000 Thai Businesses Sign Up/To prop up Thai aviation/Snakes on a plane, again/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s Natural Wonders Take Center Stage/CLIMATE THAILAND: Alarm Over Worsening River Crisis/Environment still a top concern/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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

Be Well Medical Center and Nana Dental Join Forces

Be Well Medical Center and Nana Dental have announced their strategic collaboration effective Aug.1. Under the cooperation agreement, Nana Dental will take over the operational management of Be Well’s dental department at the Belvida location. The department will continue working under the Be Well name.

The composition of the professional staff of Be Well’s dental department, headed by Dr. Rangsima (“Jib”) Suwan, will be unchanged, while the team will be supported and extended by general practitioner and specialist dentists from Nana Dental. Continued … 

Eight Confirmed Dead, Two Still Missing After Inferno at Tissue Factory

Eight workers have been confirmed dead and two others remain unaccounted for following a major fire that tore through a tissue paper factory in Nong Khae district, Saraburi.

The blaze rapidly consumed large parts of the building due to the highly flammable materials inside. According to initial reports, 10 employees were trapped inside the office area on the second and third floors when the fire erupted. Despite the immediate response from emergency services and hours of relentless firefighting, the fire could not be brought under control before claiming multiple lives. Continued …

Bangkok building collapse tied to construction and design flaws

Thai investigators concluded that flaws in the design and construction methods caused the collapse of a partially built Bangkok building that killed at least 89 people during the March 28 earthquake, according to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

An investigation by a government agency and three universities found that the elevator and stairwell walls — key structures meant to absorb shear force — were improperly designed and built. She added that the quality of steel, concrete, and other materials met required standards, disputing earlier reports that substandard steel bars had been used. Continued …

Heavy rain and strong waves expected across Thailand

The Thai Meteorological Department today warned of widespread rain and rough seas across the country due to the prevailing moderate southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, while a low-pressure cell lingers over upper Vietnam.

South (east coast): Scattered thundershowers mostly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani; minimum 23-25°C, maximum 33-35°C; waves about a meter high and above 2 meters high in thundershowers. Continued …

Tourism, Exports Falter as Bangkok Bank Sounds Alarm on Economic Outlook

Ongoing political turbulence in Thailand is putting a dampener on fresh investment, warns Bangkok Bank (BBL), potentially exacerbating the effects of U.S. tariffs on exports. Kobsak Pootrakool, a senior executive at BBL, explained that the uncertainty plaguing Thailand’s political scene could deter investment in both public and private sectors. Businesses are hesitant to make investment plans until there’s clarity on U.S.-Thai trade relations and potential tariff impacts.

BBL has responded by reducing its 2025 Thai GDP growth forecast from 3% to 2%, assuming the U.S. will impose tariffs of 10%-15% on Thai exports. If risks worsen, growth could plummet to 1.5%, largely due to tariff impacts. Continued …

Thailand requests US to cap reciprocal tariff at 10%

The 90-day negotiation deadline on reciprocal tariffs between the United States and several countries, including Thailand, is set to expire on July 7. If no agreement is reached or the timeline is not extended, the U.S. will impose tariffs at the rates it has set. For Thailand, this means tariffs could rise to 36%.

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said the United States has agreed to hold talks with Thailand this week. He plans to travel to the U.S. as head of the Thai negotiation team. Continued …

Where trade talks stand with major US partners ahead of tariffs-hike deadline

Negotiators from more than a dozen major U.S. trading partners are rushing to reach agreements with U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration by a July 9 deadline to avoid import tariffs jumping to higher levels, and Trump and his team kept up the pressure yesterday.

With only a limited deal with Britain completed so far, Trump has repeatedly threatened just to send a series of letters to trading partners identifying what their new tariff rate will be after the deadline, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the risk of tariffs going up next week is real. Continued …

Thai-US tariff talks start on Thursday in Washington

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira will meet U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Thursday, beginning much-anticipated tariff negotiations between Thailand and the United States.

It will be the first meeting between the two countries since U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 36% import tariff on Thai products. He allowed a 10% charge during the interim period, which expires on July 9. Continued …

Foreign Investors Desert Thai Stocks Amid Political Turmoil and Economic Slump

Foreign investors have offloaded 80 billion baht from Thai equities since the start of the year, positioning Thailand as one of the world’s worst-performing markets. This divestment is largely attributed to the nation’s subdued GDP growth, which has translated into disappointing corporate earnings compared to its regional counterparts. Lingering political uncertainties are also adding considerable pressure.

Since January, overseas investors have persistently sold off Thai shares, with net sales now exceeding 78 billion baht. This capital flight occurs against a backdrop of Thailand’s slowest economic expansion in ASEAN and persistent domestic political instability. Continued …

Manufacturing production index up for 2 months in a row

The political risk that threatens to undermine the government should become clearer this month, indicative of whether the manufacturing sector will decelerate after the Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) rose by 1.8% year-on-year in May for a second consecutive month to 100.79 points, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

The Constitutional Court is scheduled to convene today to consider a petition submitted by the Senate in a bid to oust Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra over a contentious leaked recording of a phone call with Cambodian Senate president Hun Sen on the Thai-Cambodian territorial dispute. Continued …

Over 1 million high-skilled jobs needed in top 10 sectors

Over one million high-skilled positions will be required in 10 targeted industries between 2025 and 2029, according to a newly released survey by the National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO) and IRIS Consulting.

Findings from this comprehensive survey on Thailand’s demand for high-skilled workers across the 10 targeted industries between 2025 and 2029 provide a crucial foundation for aligning workforce development with future industrial needs. Continued …

12,000 Thai Shops Face Closure Under New Marijuana Rules

Thailand’s cannabis industry is facing a seismic shift as new regulations threaten to shut down around 12,000 cannabis shops. The country’s Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has unveiled stringent rules requiring medical professionals to oversee cannabis sales, with these changes set to take effect by the year’s end.

Dr .Somruek Chungsaman, director-general of the DTAM, announced these sweeping reforms yesterday. The upcoming departmental notification will introduce a stricter prescription form, demanding the presence of specific medical professionals from fields like general medicine, Thai taditional medicine, dentistry, and others. The professionals must register their license numbers on all prescriptions. Continued …

ONE Championship shifts global production hub to Bangkok

ONE Championship has officially moved its global production operations to Bangkok – marking another shift in the martial arts promotion’s center of gravity, as it leans deeper into its weekly Lumpinee Stadium events and reports a sharp rise in revenue.

The company confirmed yesterday that it has relocated its production hub from Singapore to the Thai capital, citing increased output, logistical efficiency, and the growing scale of its weekly ONE Friday Fights broadcasts. Contineud …

Will Thai tourism’s renewed focus on ‘quality over quantity’ work?

Consistently the crownholder of Southeast Asia’s most visited country, Thailand came close in 2019 to a symbolic threshold it had never reached before: 40 million tourists. It narrowly missed the mark but six years later it is nowhere close to recreating that golden period for one of the country’s most important industries.

It was overtaken by both Malaysia and Japan in terms of international arrivals in 2024, which welcomed 38 and 36.9 million visitors last year, respectively, compared to Thailand’s 35.5 million. Four years after reopening its borders following the COVID-19 pandemic with the hope that tourists – especially from China – would flood back, Thailand is once again recalibrating its tourism strategy. Continued …

PATA forecast confirms geopolitics poses top risk and threat to Tourism

Geopolitical turbulence is now indisputably the leading risk and threat facing travel and tourism, according to visitor arrivals forecasts presented by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). Statistical data presented at a recent webinar clearly showed how countries and regions are being impacted by multiple geopolitical conflicts, and will continue to be impacted in the years ahead.

PATA said, “As the global tourism industry moves beyond the recovery phase, Asia Pacific stands at the forefront of a new era marked by shifting demand patterns, technological acceleration, and a renewed commitment to sustainability.” It added, “Industry professionals must now prepare not just for recovery, but for transformation driven by global megatrends, from AI integration to geopolitical flux and generational shifts in travel motivations.” Continued …

Over 34,000 Thai Businesses Sign Up for ‘Half-Half’ Travel Scheme

Thai tourism businesses are embracing a new government initiative, “Tiew Thai Kon La Krueng” (Half-Half Thai Travel), designed to revitalize the domestic travel sector.

An total of 34,005 tourism operators have already registered for the scheme, which will offer significant subsidies on accommodation to the public from next week. Continued …

Indian travel demand to prop up Thai aviation

India’s rapid economic growth will help support Southeast Asia’s aviation industry, including the Thai aviation sector, according to Indian carrier IndiGo, which plans to introduce its new business class seats to Bangkok and Phuket.

Pieter Elbers, chief executive of IndiGo, said that whenever new destinations in Southeast Asia were introduced or the capacity of those routes increased, IndiGo always saw strong travel demand. Continued …

Snakes on a plane, again: India foils third Thailand wildlife smuggling attempt this month

Indian customs officers in Mumbai said they have stopped a plane passenger arriving from Thailand with a wriggling cargo of live snakes, the third such seizure this month. The passenger, who arrived on Sunday, has been arrested, the customs agency said, with “further investigation underway”.

The live snakes included reptiles often sold in the pet trade, and were largely non-venomous, or with venom too weak to affect people. In early June, customs officers stopped a passenger smuggling dozens of venomous vipers, also arriving from Thailand. Days later, officers stopped another traveler carrying 100 creatures, including lizards, sunbirds, and tree-climbing possums. Continued …

Thailand’s Natural Wonders Take Center Stage in New ‘Jurassic World’ Film

When a major Hollywood production chooses a country for filming, it’s a sure sign of truly extraordinary locations. And for the latest installment in the global dinosaur phenomenon, “Jurassic World: Rebirth”, Thailand’s breathtaking landscapes were the undeniable star.

Film enthusiasts and travelers alike will soon be able to follow in the footsteps of the blockbuster, which premieres tomorrow. The newest chapter in the iconic Jurassic Park and Jurassic World franchise saw the entire production brought to Thailand. The decision was simple: Thailand’s rich, diverse ecosystems, encompassing majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and pristine seas, offered an unparalleled level of authenticity and visual splendor that no studio could replicate. Continued …

Communities Across Eight Mekong Provinces Raise Alarm Over Worsening River Crisis

Concerned residents from eight northeastern Thai provinces gathered in Mukdahan to share growing fears over the deteriorating condition of the Mekong River, citing increasingly erratic water levels, declining fish populations ,and shrinking incomes. The mounting environmental crisis, they say, is being driven by upstream dam construction, riverbed mining, and cross-border exploitation.

The meeting, held Sunday, brought together over 100 participants, including villagers, environmental activists, and academic observers. Attendees represented provinces along the Mekong, Chiang Rai, Loei, Bueng Kan, Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani, with the aim of developing a collective action plan under a shared network. Continued …

Environment still a top concern for Thai consumers

The environment remains Thailand’s number one public concern in 2025, according to a nationwide study by Marketbuzzz, in partnership with the School of Global Studies at Thammasat University.

This continued prioritization of the environment occurs despite mounting economic pressure and rising prices, which have also increased as sources of concern this year. Continued …

  • Canadian Man Caught Smuggling Heroin Hidden in Women’s Handbags at Airport – Continued …
  • Australian man smashes window and hurls objects from Pattaya hotel – Continued …
        • 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 two 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
bangkok, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand islands, tourism

Friday’s news-June

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Entertainment this weekend/Bra offerings on PKK island/Grim Motorcycle Death Toll/Border spat with Cambodia/Cambodia Bolsters Troop Presence/Thai Fleet on High Alert/Bangkok tower contractor arraigned/Healthcare scheme ‘not in crisis’/ECONOMY: Thailand’s ‘second Bangkok’/Keys to entertainment complex success/Upbeat on EU trade talks/TOURISM: Bangkok and Koh Samui Shine/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Exploring Bang Lamphu/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s Solar Rooftop Initiative/Data center boom with clean energy/Greener, Smarter Future on the Road/Can ASEAN Plastic Crisis/Ministry shuts down toxic waste site/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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

Entertainment this weekend in Hua Hin

Heaven is Hua Hin, a local Facebook page, has created a “community gig guide calendar” ito share and inform the community about various ongoing music events in Hua Hin. Continued …

Thais honor island goddess with bra offerings on PKK island

A group of Thai people fulfilled their vows to a goddess on Koh Nom Sao, the colloquial term roughly translating to Young Women’s Breasts Island, in the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan, by offering bras.

Sumate Charoensuk, president of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) committee of Sam Roi Yot subdistrict, shared details of the unique offerings Wednesday. He explained that locals presented various types of bras to the goddess on Koh Nom Sao after their wishes were granted. Continued …

Thailand’s Grim Motorcycle Death Toll Sparks Helmet Campaign

Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) has called on all motorcyclists to wear helmets, following a devastating year of road casualties. Over 14,000 people lost their lives in motorcycle accidents across the country in 2024 alone.

(Editor: While wearing helmets when riding a motorcycle is a good idea, the headgear typically used is not the answer to significantly reducing road deaths in Thailand. First, the types of helmets usually used are cheap and break easily, affording very little in the way of safety. The cost of helmets that can actually provide protection is probably more than most Thais can afford. And second, what is needed is driver education programs – required before getting a license. The problems on the roads are reckless and careless driving, not headgear.)

Statistics from three government agencies paint a worrying picture of road safety. From 2020 to 2024, an average of 17,428 people died annually in road traffic incidents, with motorcycles involved in 80% of these fatalities. The figures for 2024 were particularly dire, with 17,447 road deaths recorded, of which 14,144 were linked to motorcycle accidents. On average, this means three people died every two hours. Continued …

Thai PM snubs World Court in border spat with Cambodia

Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has firmly declared the nation’s refusal to bow to the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) amid an ongoing border dispute with Cambodia.

Yesterday, she reiterated Thailand’s commitment to peaceful resolutions over the contested areas, which include three ancient temples. This stance follows Cambodian PM Hun Manet’s suggestion to elevate the row to the ICJ, excluding these from the upcoming Joint Border Committee talks. Continued …

Tensions Mount as Cambodia Bolsters Troop Presence at Border

The border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand sees no signs of easing, with a worrying escalation of military tension. The firefight erupted at Chong Bok pass in Ubon Ratchathani on May 28, when Cambodian troops reportedly fired upon Thai forces investigating a supposed Cambodian incursion. This incident has ignited a heightened military response, as confirmed by a Thai Army spokesman.

In light of the altercation, Winthai clarified that the Thai military’s actions were strictly in self-defense. He emphasized the ongoing commitment of the Thai military to engage diplomatically with Cambodian counterparts, despite the latter’s marked lack of cooperation in negotiating peace. Continued …

Royal Thai Fleet on High Alert Amid Border Tensions

In response to rising tensions along Thailand’s land border, the Royal Thai Navy’s principal combat force, the Royal Thai Fleet, has been placed on heightened alert. Naval officers and personnel have been instructed to prepare for potential deployment and to uphold their duty in defending the nation and its people.

Yesterday, Admiral Jiraphon Wongwit, commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Navy, delegated Admiral Natthaphon Diewwanich, commander of the Royal Thai Fleet, to address naval forces aboard HTMS Chakri Naruebet at the Sattahip Naval Base. The speech was delivered in the presence of senior command officers from the army, navy and air force, who also oversaw a readiness inspection. Continued …

Collapsed Bangkok tower contractor arraigned

Public prosecutors yesterday arraigned China Railway No.10 (Thailand) Co., its Chinese director, and three Thais on charges of illegally operating a construction business in Thailand.

The company is a part of the joint venture with Italian-Thai Development Plc that was contracted to build the State Audit Office that collapsed in late March, killing 89 people and leaving seven others missing. Continued …

Thailand’s gold card healthcare scheme ‘not in crisis’

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin said yesterday that the 30-baht “gold card” Universal Healthcare Coverage scheme is not facing a financial crisis, emphasizing its stability, with reserve funds for hospitals totaling 46 billion baht after liabilities.

Somsak led the meeting of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) board on Wednesday to address recent concerns about hospital budget deficits allegedly caused by the universal healthcare system’s compensation mechanism. Some critics claim reimbursements under the scheme do not fully reflect actual treatment costs. Continued …

Thailand’s ‘second Bangkok’ takes shape in Chonburi

The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) is set to transform 14,619 rai in Huai Yai subdistrict of Bang Lamung, Chonburi, into a massive new smart city project, in what is being dubbed as “Thailand’s second Bangkok”. The project will involve a proposed estimated investment of 1.34 trillion baht and is hoped to be completed by 2030.

At a recent seminar titled “Legal Frameworks for Foreign Investment in Thailand: Sales, Rentals, and Development”, Korthong Thongtham Na Ayutthaya, deputy director of the Office of Smart City and Urban Business Center under the Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO), revealed plans for the new city, which will complement the development of U-Tapao Airport. Continued …

Public-private cooperation among keys to entertainment (casino) complex success

The establishment of an entertainment complex in Thailand requires public-private cooperation, transparency, and effective communication with the public, said the former president and CEO of Marina Bay Sands in Singapore yesterday.

Speaking at the Thai Entertainment Complex Roundtable (TECR) in Bangkok, George Tanasijevich emphasized that entertainment complexes can serve as a vital driving force for the Thai economy. He noted that casinos are among the facilities that generate revenue for such complexes. Continued …

Thailand’s commerce minister upbeat on EU trade talks

The commerce minister expects the sixth round of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between Thailand and the European Union (EU), scheduled for later this month in Bangkok, to make encouraging progress.

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said the negotiations are reaching a crucial stage, focusing on market access. The sixth round of negotiations are slated for June 23-27. Continued …

Bangkok and Koh Samui Shine as Europe’s Favorite Getaways

Bangkok and Koh Samui have nabbed the limelight, with Thailand reigning supreme as the top summer getaway for European travelers for a second consecutive year. According to an Agoda survey, travelers from Germany, France, the UK, the Netherlands, and Spain are leading the charge, keen on the country’s dynamic culture and idyllic beaches.

As temperatures in Europe rise, so, too, does interest in Thai destinations. The survey points out a notable upswing in hotel searches from countries like Greece, showing a 67% increase; the Czech Republic with a bump of 26%; and Poland up by 16%. Continued …

Exploring Bang Lamphu in a day: Temples, eats and nightlife

Looking for a perfect one-day getaway in Bangkok? Look no further than Bang Lamphu, one of the city’s charming Old Town areas.

Video 

Known for its blend of historic landmarks, vibrant street food and lively nightlife, this district is quickly becoming one of Bangkok’s most celebrated creative economy hubs. Continued …

Thailand’s Solar Rooftop Initiative Aims to Empower Local Communities

In a bid to revolutionize its energy landscape, Thailand is set to launch an ambitious solar rooftop program designed to increase renewable energy sources and empower local communities. Scheduled to roll out next month, the initiative aims to boost solar energy installations on residential and commercial buildings across the nation, contributing to Thailand’s goal of generating 30% of its energy from renewable resources by 2036.

The initiative comes as Thailand grapples with rising energy demands and a commitment to sustainability. Currently, nearly 20% of the country’s energy comes from renewable sources, but officials say the new program can significantly increase this number. The government plans to encourage households to invest in rooftop solar panels by providing financial incentives and streamlined installation processes. Continued …

Thailand powers up for data center boom with clean energy overhaul

Siemens, in collaboration with Krungthep Turakij, hosted the “Siemens Data Center Conference 2025: Redefining Data Center Infrastructure” yesterday to raise awareness and deepen understanding of future data center trends.

Sarat Prakobchat, deputy director of the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO), presented on the topic “Empowering Sustainable Data Center Growth through Thailand’s Clean Energy Policy.” He emphasized that data centers’ energy demands are highly significant. In 2024, global data centers consumed 415 TWh of electricity — about 1.5% of global power usage. By 2030, consumption is projected to more than double to 945 TWh, or 3% of global use, reflecting robust and sustained demand growth that operators must plan for. Continued …

Powering a Greener, Smarter Future on the Road

Electric vehicles are gaining traction across Thailand, but clearer information, better infrastructure, and broader choices are key to accelerating adoption.

As the world transitions toward more sustainable living, Southeast Asia is beginning to feel the electric pulse of a future with cleaner transportation. In particular, electric vehicles (EVs) are fast emerging as a cornerstone of the region’s push to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and combat urban congestion. Continued … 

Can ASEAN Innovate Its Way Out of the Plastic Crisis?

Plastic waste has infiltrated every corner of the planet: it leaches into our water, contaminates our food, and even enters our bodies. Yet, while the scale of the problem is vast, plastic pollution remains one of today’s most solvable environmental challenges – especially with the right mix of technical solutions and financial innovation.

For decades, plastic has symbolized modern convenience – lightweight, versatile and cheap. But this convenience has become an environmental curse. The ASEAN region, while economically dynamic, is amongst the world’s largest contributors to marine plastic pollution. Indonesia alone generates over 3 million metric tons of mismanaged plastic waste annually, a large share of which ends up in the ocean. The Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia are not far behind. Collectively, the ten ASEAN Member States account for nearly half of global plastic leakage into oceans. Continued …

Industry ministry shuts down toxic waste site in Chachoengsao

The Ministry of Industry is preparing to shut down Kumpan Thong Industry Co., a site linked to toxic waste in Phanom Sarakham district, Chachoengsao province.

The company allegedly distributed contaminated soil to locals for landfills and operated a factory without proper authorization since late May. The ministry’s task force, dubbed Team Sudsoi, in collaboration with the Department of Industrial Works and the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, expanded their investigation to uncover these activities. Continued …

  • Taiwanese Scam Syndicate Foiled at Airport Checkpoint – Continued …
  • British National Among Foreigners Arrested in Koh Phangan Crackdown – Continued …
  • British man flees after crashing sedan into house in Udon Thani – Continued …

Norway adopts tourist tax to combat overtourism

Norwegian lawmakers approved yesterday a tourist tax to help finance infrastructure improvements, as a boom in visitors has led to worries about overtourism. The law introduces a 3% tax on lodgings, and may also be applied to cruise ships making stops, in areas particularly affected by tourism. Continued …

Airlines on edge

Despite improving financially this year, the aviation industry is still bracing for uncertainties from tariff policies, geopolitical conflicts and supply chain disruption, according to the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA). Continued …

Trump-Musk row slams Tesla shares, $150 billion in market value wiped out

Tesla shares went into free-fall yesterday as U.S. President Donald Trump publicly feuded with the electric vehicle maker’s billionaire CEO, Elon Musk, his self-proclaimed “First Buddy.” Continued …

US slaps sanctions on four ICC judges over Israel, US cases

The United States yesterday imposed sanctions on four judges at the International Criminal Court, including over an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as it ramped up pressure to neuter the court of last resort. The four judges in The Hague, all women, will be barred entry to the United States, and any property or other interests in the world’s largest economy will be blocked. Continued …

Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe 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
bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s news-June 5

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Thailand Tightens Grip on Retirement Visas/Hua Hin low season slowdown/Who’s buying property in Hua Hin?/Border Trade Fair/Hua Hin to host LGBTQ+ festival/70 Officials under investigation/Thai Politics on the Brink/Tensions with Cambodia/Thailand Chooses Swedish Jets/Bus Operators Protest Ban/ECONOMY: Banks on edge/GDP Growth Forecast Slashed/‘Four Goes’ campaign accelerated/Thailand Unveils Entertainment Complex/Thailand plans new casino laws/Younger Thais and cost of living/TOURISM: Is Hua Hin the future blueprint?/White Lotus buzz and tourism decline/Darker Side of 60-Day Free Visa/Thai tourism stimulus budget/Smoking Areas at Airports/Airport passengers turn to Grab/Syphilis surge grips Phuket/British Tourist Dies in Fall/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thai drivers rarely honk/CLIMATE THAILAND: Plankton Bloom Turns Sea Green/‘Unsafe’ heavy metal levels/Thailand and China Boost Solar Ties/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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

Thailand Tightens Grip on Retirement Visas Amid Wealth Shift

Thailand, a perennial magnet for retirees due to its enchanting blend of affordability, warm climate, and vibrant culture, is recalibrating its approach to foreign residents — a shift with significant implications.

Known for golden beaches, delectable cuisine, and the famed hospitality that has earned it the moniker, “Land of Smiles,” Thailand has historically welcomed foreign retirees with open arms, offering them a slice of tropical paradise that’s both accessible and affordable. However, new policies suggest a distinct pivot toward the affluent, leaving many long-time admirers questioning their future in a country once synonymous with retirement tranquillity. Continued …

Hua Hin low season slowdown begins

Tourist numbers in Hua Hin received a temporary boost during the recent long weekend, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasting that the town would generate more than 270 million baht in revenue. However, the region now returns to its quieter low season, with hoteliers warning of reduced occupancy and a drop in domestic visitors.

According to figures released by the TAT’s Tourism Market Research Center, the long weekend from May 31 to June 3 — marking the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Suthida — saw Prachuap Khiri Khan province achieve an average hotel occupancy rate of 71.6%. Total tourism income was estimated at approximately 274.71 million baht. Continued …

Who’s buying property in Hua Hin right now?

Right now, most buyers are still looking for homes they can enjoy themselves. The investor market — those looking for rental yields — has cooled quite a bit. That’s largely due to factors outside of Thailand’s control: global unrest, uncertainty, and fluctuating currencies have made people more cautious. Understandably, many are choosing to hold onto their money or are looking at short-term fixed returns instead.

That said, if you’re an investor, it’s worth keeping an eye on developments here. With Hua Hin now officially recognized as a city — Nakhon Hua Hin — there are some major improvements in the pipeline that could positively impact the market. Continued …

Border Trade Fair at Bluport Hua Hin, June 13-16

The Department of Foreign Trade will host a trade event at Bluport Hua Hin June 13-16, featuring more than 150 stalls as part of its annual Border Trade Fair. The event, which will take place at the Hua Hin Convention Center, aims to boost trade and investment by bringing together small businesses, community enterprises, and importers from neighboring countries.

A wide variety of products will be on display and available for purchase, including consumer goods, agricultural produce, fruit, food and beverages, lifestyle items, and locally made products from across Thailand. Continued …

Hua Hin set to host major LGBTQ+ festival to mark Pride Month

Hua Hin is set to host one of the country’s largest Pride Month celebrations this weekend with the LGBTQ+ Festival Thailand taking place on Sunday.

The event, organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in cooperation with local government agencies and the private sector, will be held at Market Village Hua Hin. Continued …

Bangkok Tower Collapse Scandal: 70 Officials under investigation

Seventy state officials are under the spotlight for their alleged involvement in a bidding collusion tied to the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has implicated former and current SAO executives, as well as 10 committees singled out for their role in the events leading to the disaster.

On March 28, an earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale caused the swift fall of the 2.1-billion-baht, 30-story skyscraper, ending in tragedy with 89 fatalities and leaving seven others unaccounted for. Continued …

From the Cabinet Room to the Frontline: Thai Politics on the Brink

Thailand’s political temperature is rising fast. From Cabinet infighting and Senate scandals to border flare-ups with Cambodia, power struggles are pushing the country toward a breaking point. The battlefield now spans from the halls of power to contested lands.

Despite the “Red Bloc,” led by the de facto leader Thaksin Shinawatra, holding sway over the executive branch, its rival — the “Blue Bloc” with power broker Newin Chidchob operating behind the scenes — maintains a firm grip on the Senate through the Blue Party and Blue-aligned senators. There’s no sign that they intend to back down anytime soon. Continued …

PM stresses peaceful approach amid tensions with Cambodia

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra confirmed that she has good relations with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and his family, but emphasized that Thailand will not give away its sovereignty.

In response to growing tensions on the Thai-Cambodian border following a clash at the Chong Bok checkpoint in Ubon Ratchathani Province, she reiterated that Thailand is choosing a peaceful approach but is ready to act in case of unexpected events. Continued …

Thailand Chooses Swedish Gripen Jets Over US F-16s

The Royal Thai Air Force has announced plans to acquire 12 advanced Gripen JAS 39 fighter jets from Sweden’s Saab over a decade. This decision comes after the air force chief, ACM Punpakdee Pattanakul, highlighted the strategic benefits over the U.S.-made F-16s. The first procurement phase is set for this August, with a budget of 19.5 billion baht (approximately 20.9 billion Thai baht).

The air force’s top brass expressed a preference for the Gripens due to their potential governmental advantages. Earlier this year, the Thai Air Force transformed a Songkhla road into an emergency landing strip for a Gripen jet, underscoring its operational readiness. Continued …

Bus Operators Protest Ban on Double-Decker Coaches Along ‘Risky’ Routes

A major protest erupted yesterday, at the Andaman Gateway along the Khao Phap Pha route, as over 100 double-decker buses from across southern Thailand gathered to demonstrate against a government order banning such vehicles from traveling on seven mountainous routes nationwide.

The demonstration, led by the Thai Double-Decker Bus Operators Assn., was sparked by the Department of Land Transport’s (DLT) directive to prohibit double-decker coaches, both for scheduled and chartered services, from using specific roads deemed hazardous due to steep gradients. The order took effect on June 1 for scheduled buses, while non-scheduled services have been under the ban since April 11. Continued …

Banks on edge as large businesses face liquidity crisis amid economic uncertainty

Amid ongoing uncertainty in the global economy and Thailand’s economic outlook, large financial institutions are beginning to see the serious impact on their loan portfolios.

This is not limited to household debtors or SMEs, but is now affecting even the key pillars, such as large corporations, which are showing signs of weakness and vulnerability. This is reflected in declining performance, liquidity, and cash flow, continuing to diminish over time. Continued …

Thai GDP Growth Forecast Slashed Amid Export Woes and Global Slowdown

Thailand’s economic growth prospects for 2025 have been significantly downgraded, with the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) revising its GDP forecast downwards to a range of 1.5%-2.0%. This marks a considerable drop from the previous estimate of 2.2%, primarily driven by a projected slowdown in merchandise exports and private investment in the latter half of the year.

The JSCCIB revealed yesterday that the export outlook has worsened, with full-year exports now anticipated to contract by 0.5%-0.3%, a stark reversal from the earlier forecast of 0.3%-0.9% growth. Continued …

‘Four Goes’ campaign accelerated to spur Thai businesses

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is speeding up the “Four Goes” campaign to help businesses survive and grow amid economic uncertainties, especially those caused by changes in international trade.

The campaign, launched three years ago to enhance businesses’ competitiveness, must be carried out more actively to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SME), which represent the majority of the FTI’s membership, said Adul K.laorr, vice chairman of the FTI. Continued …

Thailand Unveils Bt100-billion Entertainment Complex

Thailand’s government has unveiled ambitious plans for a world-class entertainment complex featuring strictly regulated casino facilities, aiming to transform the kingdom into a global tourism hub and address seasonal visitor downturns.

Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister Suksit Srijomkwan yesterday outlined the “Thailand Entertainment Complex” project — a comprehensive leisure destination designed to significantly boost tourism revenue and mitigate the impact of the annual low season. Continued …

Thailand plans new casino laws to combat money laundering

Thailand is set to implement measures to record and monitor financial transactions of casino visitors to combat money laundering, as the government aims to gain support for a bill to legalize gambling venues within new integrated resorts.

The country plans to enforce responsible gaming regulations, which include prohibitions on casino advertising and barring those considered “financial risks” from entry, explained Suksit Srichomkhwan, deputy secretary-general. Continued …

Younger Thais grapple with cost of living

Generations Y and Z in Thailand are concerned about the cost of living, and they use artificial intelligence (AI) more than the global average, according to a survey by the multinational consultancy Deloitte.

The Deloitte Global 2025 Gen Z and Millennial survey gathered insights from 23,482 respondents across 44 countries, including 330 from Thailand. Of the Thai respondents, 209 were Gen Z (ages 18-30) and 121 were Gen Y (ages 30-42), with data collected between October and December 2024. Continued … 

Is Hua Hin the future blueprint for tourism?

Tucked along the Gulf of Thailand, just a few hours from Bangkok, Hua Hin remains one of the kingdom’s most alluring coastal towns — a sanctuary where timeless elegance meets serene simplicity. My recent stay in Hua Hin, beginning mid-May, reaffirmed the reasons I call this place my “happy place.”

The gentle lapping of waves, early morning walks along the shoreline, and the peaceful cadence of tropical life offered a stark contrast to the world’s current uncertainties. From my vantage point overlooking lush gardens, lotus ponds, and the saltwater scent of sea air — Hua Hin reminded me of Thailand at its best: graceful, welcoming, and quietly resilient. Continued …

White Lotus buzz can’t reverse Thai tourism decline

The outlook for tourism in Thailand is so deep in the doldrums that even the so-called White Lotus effect — a temporary boost in Western visitors inspired by the latest season of the hit TV show — hasn’t been enough to offset a slump in arrivals from neighboring countries.

Foreign arrivals to Thailand dropped for the fourth straight month in May, slipping 14% year-on-year to 2.6 million, government data show. That’s the country’s longest streak of declines since 2021, when the Covid pandemic closed international borders. Continued … 

The Darker Side of Thailand’s 60-Day Free Visa

Thailand’s recent move to extend free visa stays from 30 to 60 days for travelers from 93 countries was widely welcomed as a bold step to revive tourism post-pandemic. The government aimed to boost the economy by attracting more visitors and business travelers with easier access and longer stays. But beneath the optimistic surface, serious concerns are emerging.

Despite the visa extension, tourist arrivals in early 2025 have not rebounded as hoped. Research from Kasikorn Research Center reports a slight decline in foreign tourists visiting Thailand during the first months of 2025 compared to the previous year, projecting an annual drop of nearly 3%. Factors such as the global economic slowdown, geopolitical tensions, rising costs, and stiff competition from neighboring countries like Vietnam and Japan have dampened tourism demand. Continued …

Thai tourism stimulus budget taking shape

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports expects a stimulus budget of 13.3 billion baht to generate 267 billion baht for the Thai economy, after combining development plans for tourism areas with other agencies.

Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the proposed budget will be reviewed by the Budget Bureau before being submitted to the cabinet for approval on June 10. Continued …

PM Orders Standardized Smoking Areas at Airports for Travelers

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has directed the transport and health ministries to establish standardized smoking areas at Thailand’s airports. This decision comes as part of efforts to enhance the traveler experience in Thailand, a major regional aviation hub, while protecting the health of non-smokers.

The prime minister emphasized that these areas must align with international standards, as implemented in airports globally. By setting up designated smoking zones, Thailand aims to cater to the diverse needs of its many passengers while maintaining a comfortable environment. Continued …

Traditional taxis left behind as airport passengers turn to Grab

At Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, the taxi rank is beginning to look more like a museum exhibit — a row of vehicles waiting for passengers who no longer come. Travelers, both Thai and foreign, are increasingly bypassing traditional taxis in favor of ride-hailing apps like Grab.

The shift is so pronounced that a popular local Facebook page recently posted photos of passengers streaming past the taxi line, opting instead for pre-booked Grab cars with designated staff on hand to assist them with app downloads, trip advice, and customer support. Continued …

Syphilis surge grips Phuket as tourism booms again

A surge in syphilis cases has hit Phuket, with infections now reported in all three districts of the island province. Health officials are sounding the alarm as the rise coincides with the post-pandemic rebound in tourism and a return to riskier sexual behavior.

“Youths remain a high-risk group, but syphilis can affect people of all genders and ages who engage in risky sexual behavior,” warned Dr. Kusuma Sawangphan, head of the Communicable Disease Control Group at the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO). Continued …

British Tourist, 59, Dies in Fall in Phuket

A British tourist, Kerry Bruce, aged 59, passed away after falling from a steep incline in Patong, Phuket, following a night out.

Initial investigations revealed that Bruce and her partner had enjoyed an evening at a local restaurant before heading back to their hotel in the Patong subdistrict. Unfortunately, while ascending the steep hotel path, Bruce, reportedly under the influence, lost her footing and fell approximately 6 to 7 meters. Continued …

Thai drivers rarely honk. Here’s why

Many foreigners living in Thailand are surprised by how quiet local roads are — especially considering the country’s famously heavy traffic. Despite the frequent congestion, loud horn honking is rare.

One reason is cultural. In Thai society, honking is often perceived as aggressive — almost like swearing. It’s seen as a trigger for anger and conflict, which could easily escalate into road rage. As a result, most Thai drivers choose patience over confrontation, even in traffic jams. Continued …

Plankton Bloom Turns Sea Green off Chonburi

An natural phenomenon has caused the sea off Si Racha, Chonburi province, to change color, turning a murky green and emitting a foul odor due to a plankton bloom. The incident has temporarily forced local fishermen to suspend their activities, though tourism in the area remains unaffected.

(Editor: Also known as “red tide”, this sea condition is caused by fertilizer- and chemical-infused agricultural runoff, and made worse by warm water temperatures. It is known for devastating sea life kills.)

Yesterday, residents along the Si Racha shoreline reported that the sea had turned a deep green. Some coastal marine life had washed ashore, dead or dying from a lack of oxygen. The occurrence, commonly known among locals as “whale feces” or more scientifically as a plankton bloom, has been seen in the region before. Continued …

‘Unsafe’ heavy metal levels in northern Thai rivers

The Pollution Control Department has confirmed unsafe levels of arsenic and other heavy metals in the Kok, Sai and Mekong rivers in northern Thailand, with the contamination traced to upstream mining operations across the border in Shan State of Myanmar.

The PCD released its findings from three rounds of water and sediment sampling conducted between March 19 and May 16, revealing widespread pollution in northern waterways. Continued … 

Thailand and China Boost Solar Ties to Cut Energy Costs

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga recently completed a China visit focused on bolstering clean and renewable energy cooperation, particularly in solar technology. Leading a delegation from May 26-30, Pirapan engaged with leading solar companies in Jiangsu province and Shanghai.

Discussions with firms like GoodWe, Canadian Solar, Trina Solar, Changzhou Almaden, JinkoSolar, and Sungrow explored technologies and collaborative opportunities within Thailand’s expanding solar market. The visit, supported by representatives from the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products, aimed to drive down electricity costs and expand access to sustainable energy solutions. Continued … 

  • US Tourist’s Temple Graffiti Sparks Outrage in Chiang Mai – Continued …
  • Indian women busted in weed run – Continued …
  • Singaporean businessman caught over 5 million baht VAT fraud – Continued … 
  • Foreign Supercar Owners Fined for Flouting Phuket Parking Laws – Continued …
  • Nonthaburi Immigration Arrest Syrian Man for 6-month Visa Overstay – Continued … 

Trump bans travel from 12 mostly Muslim nations

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a full travel ban blocking the entry of foreign nationals from 12 countries into the United States, reviving a controversial policy from his first term that is likely to be challenged in court. Trump cited “national security risks” posed by citizens of the targeted nations, which include several Middle Eastern and African countries. Continued …

Trump says ‘extremely hard’ to do trade deal with Xi

U.S. President Donald Trump said yesterday it was “extremely hard” to reach a deal with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, as he ramped up his global trade war by doubling tariffs on steel and aluminium imports. Continued …

Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe 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
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Saturday’s news-May 17

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Soi 94 electricutions/Illegal Hua Hin limestone mine/PKK as global wellness tourism hub/Hypertension hides in plain sight/COVID-19 cases surge/Tycoon, 14 Others Denied Bail/Pattaya’s Marina Parking Project/Police Officer Killed in Bombing/US professor Trapped in Thailand/Phuket gears up with sandbags/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Digital wallet killed/Thailand Data Center Boom/Thai Port Authority Record Profits/Thailand-Vietnam trade target/Thai pet food sector/TOURISM: Financial evidence required for visas/Hot Springs into Spa Destinations/New flights to Vietnam/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Destinations under the radar/Phuket’s Peranakan festival/CLIMATE THAILAND: Changan opens Thailand EV plant/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

Soi 94 electricutions not caused by city wires

Continued …

Illegal Hua Hin limestone mine under fire

Continued …

PKK positioning itself as global wellness tourism hub

Continued … 

Hypertension hides in plain sight

Thailand’s economy has surged. Its health care system is admired. Yet, a silent killer is quietly stealing lives, straining hospitals, and sapping the nation’s future. That killer is hypertension – and it’s hiding in plain sight.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called the “silent killer” for good reason. It creeps up with no symptoms, quietly damaging the heart, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels. It doesn’t just hurt individuals and families – it burdens our health system with avoidable costs and robs the economy of productivity through absenteeism and premature death. Continued …

Thailand’s COVID-19 cases surge past 71,000, with 19 deaths

COVID-19 cases have surged in Thailand, with a total of 71,067 infections and 19 deaths reported between Jan. 1 and May 14, according to the government’s COVID-19 Information Center.

The number of cases continues to rise, with two significant cluster outbreaks identified. The spike follows the Songkran holiday period, during which case numbers steadily increased. Continued …

Tycoon, 14 Others Denied Bail in Fatal Bangkok Building Collapse

The Ratchada Criminal Court yesterday denied bail and ordered the detention of Premchai Karnasuta, the president of Italian-Thai Development, along with 14 others.

These individuals are implicated in the catastrophic collapse of the State Audit building in Bangkok, which occurred during the March 28 earthquake. Although the tragedy claimed the lives of around 92 people, the gravity of the incident extends beyond the casualty figures, sending ripples of fear and concern through the public. Continued …

Pattaya’s 345-Million-Baht Marina Parking Project Left Abandoned for 17 Years

A long-abandoned marina parking project in South Pattaya has become a stark symbol of failed urban planning, poor project management, and wasteful public spending, with over 345 million baht of taxpayer funds yielding nothing but rust and rubble.

The South Pattaya Marina Parking Facility, located near the Bali Hai Pier, was envisioned in 2008 as a state-of-the-art docking and vehicle parking solution to alleviate congestion and support the city’s booming marine tourism industry. Funded with 735 million baht from central government coffers, the project comprised two major components: an automated car park for 417 vehicles and a hydraulic boat parking system capable of accommodating over 360 vessels. Continued …

Police Officer Killed, Another Injured, in Roadside Bombing in Pattani

A police officer has died and another remains in critical condition following a targeted roadside bomb attack yesterday in Kapho District, Pattani Province, part of the violence-stricken deep south.

The incident occurred when officers from Kapho Police Station were patroling a known flashpoint area. The patrol vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), believed to have been planted by insurgents seeking to ambush the security team. Continued …

Trapped in Thailand: US professor caught in royal law limbo

An American academic is stranded in Thailand despite prosecutors dropping serious royal defamation charges, sparking diplomatic concerns and fears of legal limbo.

Paul Chambers, a 58-year-old political science lecturer, was arrested last month under Thailand’s strict lese majeste law — a rarely enforced statute against foreigners that carries up to 15 years in prison. Though the state prosecutor recently dropped the charges, Chambers remains stuck in the country, with his passport confiscated and visa revoked. Continued …

Phuket gears up with sandbags ahead of rainy season

Phuket is bracing for the rainy season with a full-scale flood battle plan ready to roll out, as officials warn locals to stay alert and keep canals clear of rubbish.

To tackle potential flooding, the Phuket City Municipality Flood Prevention and Resolution Operation Center has mobilized manpower, machinery, and sandbags ready for distribution in high-risk areas. Measures also include cleaning and dredging canals to boost water flow. Continued …

  • Brutal Bloodshed in Pattaya: Briton Stabbed, Suspects Vanish – Continued …
  • 31 Thai and Chinese suspects arrested in Rayong for money laundering – Continued …

Digital wallet 10,000-baht handout killed

The government has scrapped its plan to distribute 10,000 baht via the digital wallet program — one of its flagship policies — and will instead reallocate over 150 billion baht toward a new economic stimulus plan.

This decision comes amid escalating global economic uncertainties caused by the trade war and the recent imposition of U.S. tariff measures, which have affected the global economy, as well as Thailand’s exports and manufacturing sectors. Continued …

Global Tech Giants Double Down on Thailand Data Center Boom

Major global technology firms and investment powerhouses are maintaining their confidence in Thailand’s potential as a digital hub, pressing ahead with significant investments in data centers. The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has indicated a strong pipeline, with another four to five substantial projects poised for board approval.

Existing investments in the sector have already surpassed 380 billion baht. The latest development sees global investment giant GIP-BlackRock teaming up with Thai conglomerate CP Group for a 175-billion-baht data center venture, while both Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft have reaffirmed their ongoing investment plans for the country. Continued …

Thai Port Authority Navigates to Record Profits

The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) is celebrating its 74th anniversary, having announced its highest-ever profits of 7,648 million baht. This financial performance for the fiscal year 2024 marks the third consecutive year of record-breaking revenue, which hit a total of 17,224 million baht.

The strong performance has continued into the first half of fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 to March 2025), with a net profit of 3,500 million baht reported. The number of ships docking at Thai ports reached 7,371, a 1.95% increase. Continued …

Thailand-Vietnam trade target of $25 billion set

Thailand and Vietnam have agreed to promote economic links and work together to boost bilateral trade to US$25 billion a year, from $20 billion now, in the near future, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said.

She made the remarks at a media briefing after the 4th Thailand–Vietnam Joint Cabinet Retreat, which she co-chaired with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh during her official two-day visit, which ended yesterday. Continued …

Thai pet food sector envisions bright prospects

Thailand’s pet food sector has steadily grown over the past five years, generating lucrative revenues of over 300 billion baht and average annual profits of 12 billion baht for domestic firms.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Business Development under the Ministry of Commerce, shared this update with reporters, citing changing lifestyles — particularly the growing tendency to treat pets as family members — as a key driver of this growth. Continued …

Financial evidence once again required for tourist visas

As of this month, individuals applying for a tourist visa to Thailand must once again provide evidence of sufficient financial resources. This requirement was originally removed in November 2023 as part of a broader initiative to simplify procedures for international visitors. Its reinstatement marks a slight tightening of entry rules for tourists who are not eligible for visa exemption.

Thailand’s official e-Visa website now states that applicants must present “financial evidence: an amount of no less than 20,000 THB (e.g., bank statements for the last three months, sponsorship letter).” Continued …

Thailand to Transform 118 Hot Springs into Spa Destinations

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is pushing forward with plans to develop Thailand’s hot springs into international-standard spa towns, hoping to compete with Japan’s famous onsen resorts.

Nattareeya Thaweewong, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, revealed that a 2023 survey identified 118 hot springs throughout Thailand. Of these, 71 are located in the north, 32 in the south, 12 in central Thailand, and two in the eastern region. These are categorized as isolated natural hot springs (12 locations), hot springs in natural areas (33), rural hot springs (63), and urban hot springs (10). Continued …

Thailand plots new flights to Vietnam to boost tourism

Thailand is gearing up to launch new direct flights linking its northeastern provinces to Vietnam to supercharge tourism and deepen regional ties.

The plan, revealed during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s official visit to Vietnam, aims to make travel easier between the neighboring countries, while tapping into their growing tourism markets. Continued …

10 destinations in Thailand that are under the radar

Places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket get most of the spotlight, but Thailand has so much more to offer if you’re willing to wander a little. Beyond the tourist trails are towns and destinations with old-school character, peaceful views, and flavors you won’t find in any travel app in Thailand.

These spots are for the curious traveler who prefers calm over crowds, and real moments over photo ops. From lakeside strolls to mountain sunrises, these 10 underrated destinations show a quieter, deeper side of Thailand, still beautiful, just less expected. Continued … 

Phuket ready for Peranakan festival

Phuket is gearing up for a spectacular celebration, including a grand carnival procession, as part of the Phuket Peranakan Festival 2025. The event, to be held from June 20 to 22, is expected to stimulate the resort island’s economy by pumping in over 400 million baht.

This year’s festival has been elevated to a new level, partly to celebrate prestigious awards Phuket recently received, Phuket Deputy Gov. Adul Chuthong said yesterday. Continued …

Chinese carmaker Changan opens Thailand EV plant

China’s carmaker Changan opened its Thailand plant yesterday, as its 28.59 millionth vehicle rolled off the assembly line in the factory, marking a milestone in the company’s global expansion.

As the first overseas vehicle factory of Changan Automobile, the factory is located in Thailand’s eastern Rayong Province, with a total investment of approximately 10 billion Thai baht. Continued …

Moody’s cuts America’s pristine credit rating, citing rising debt

Moody’s downgraded the U.S. sovereign credit rating yesterday due to concerns about the nation’s growing, $36-trillion debt pile, in a move that could complicate President Donald Trump’s efforts to cut taxes and send ripples through global markets. Continued …

US tells Vietnam trade deficit ‘unsustainable’ and major concern

The United States has told Vietnam its trade deficit with the Southeast Asian country is “unsustainable” and a major concern, Vietnamese state media reported yesterday, as the two countries hold negotiations on tariffs. Continued …

South Korea’s $9-Trillion Nuclear Power Resurgence

As nuclear energy resurges, South Korea stands out as a leader, having developed the best large-scale nuclear power infrastructure. This positions the nation to benefit from the growing global demand for clean energy sources, enhancing its competitiveness in the international energy market. South Korea’s advancements could play a significant role in reshaping the future of nuclear energy. 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
exports, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, thailand islands, tourism

Friday’s news-May 16

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Soi 94 road work delayed/Danish Embassy to visit Hua Hin/Retirement Heaven or Headache?/Monsoon prevails across Thailand/Quake Risk Lurking Under Bangkok/Arrest warrants issued/U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City/Abbot arrested over 300M-baht embezzlement/Norwegian Salmon Mania/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Consumer confidence drops/Support Measures for Businesses/Referendum on casino bill/Energy companies post bumper profits/Thailand’s “Salt Tax”/Taxman aims to tighten enforcement/Bangkok International Film Festival/CP Foods records profit surge/TOURISM: Tourism reform called for/12 campaigns to boost tourism/AOT Reports 36 Billion Baht in Revenue/Similan Islands to close/Illegal beach bars bulldozed/King Cobras Outside Hotel Room/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

Soi 94 road work delayed two months

Continued …

 

Danish Embassy brings outreach event to Hua Hin June 10

Danish citizens in Thailand will have an opportunity to meet Ambassador Danny Annan in person during a series of community outreach events hosted by the Embassy of Denmark in June.

The events will take place in Khon Kaen, Hua Hin, and Pattaya, offering attendees the chance to learn more about the embassy’s work in politics, trade, consular assistance, visas, and residence in Denmark. Continued …

Retirement Heaven or Headache? Thailand’s tourist cities face a reality check

As Thailand continues to market itself as a retirement haven for foreign nationals, popular tourist cities like Pattaya, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are encountering the real-world challenges that come with building such a paradise. With a mix of outdated policies, economic contradictions, and deep-rooted social attitudes, the road to becoming a true global destination for retirees is proving more complicated than advertised.

In theory, Thailand offers plenty: tropical beaches, affordable living, cultural richness, and a historically welcoming attitude. But in practice, many hurdles remain — from visa limitations and healthcare issues to workforce shortages, language barriers, and rising everyday costs — that make “retirement heaven” feel more like a retirement headache. Continued …

Heavy rainfall and flash flood risk as monsoon prevails across Thailand

Heavy rainfall is likely across the country today as the southwest monsoon prevails over the Andaman Sea and western Thailand, the Thai Meteorological Department forecast this morning.

South (east coast): Scattered thundershowers and isolated heavy rains in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon and Surat Thani; minimum 24-26°C, maximum 30-35°C; waves about a meter high and above 2 meters high in thundershowers. Continued …

Quake Risk Lurking Under Bangkok: Fault Lines Spell Trouble

Bangkok’s unique geography makes it susceptible to earthquakes, despite Thailand’s low overall risk of tremors, warns Prof. Pennung Warnitchai from the Asian Institute of Technology. Speaking at a Bangkok forum, he shed light on how the city’s soft soil amplifies seismic waves, posing a potential hazard for high-rise buildings even from distant quakes.

Pennung illustrated the impact of these features by referencing the earthquake felt in Bangkok on March 28, which originated from Myanmar’s Sagaing Fault. Continued …

Arrest warrants issued for tycoon, 16 others over SAO building collapse

The Criminal Court yesterday approved arrest warrants for 17 people, including construction tycoon Premchai Karnasuta, in connection with the collapse of the 2.1-billion-baht State Audit Office building in Bangkok, triggered by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in central Myanmar on March 28.

Premchai, 71, president of Italian-Thai Development, and the other 16 suspects face charges under sections 227 and 238 of the Criminal Code for professional negligence causing death. Continued … 

U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City: Becoming Aviation Hub

The U-Tapao International Airport and Eastern Aviation City Development Project is poised to become a cornerstone of Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), with the strategic goal of establishing U-Tapao as the country’s third major international airport and a key aviation hub in Southeast Asia.

In a significant development, the U-Tapao International Aviation Co. is set to formally sign the construction and investment agreement on June 18. This signing will proceed independently of the delayed high-speed rail project that aims to connect Thailand’s three main airports. Concurrently, negotiations are underway regarding tax-free zone privileges within the Aviation City. Continued …

Abbot of renowned temple arrested over alleged 300M-baht embezzlement

The Criminal Court yesterday approved an arrest warrant for the abbot of a well-known temple in Nakhon Pathom, shortly after the monk voluntarily turned himself in to face allegations of embezzling 300 million baht to fund online gambling.

The warrant was issued against Phra Dharma Wachiranuwat, abbot of Wat Rai Khing, at noon — just hours after he reported to the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) headquarters in Bangkok. Phra Dharma Wachiranuwat also serves as the governor of Ecclesiastical Region 14. Continued …

Norwegian Salmon Mania in Thailand Keeps Growing

Thais love salmon and saba, which may be an understatement. The exports of fresh Norwegian salmon, mackerel (saba), and fjord trout to Thailand continues to grow, with a 12% growth in 2024, according to Ashild Nakken, Norwegian Seafood Council’s director for Southeast Asia yesterday. Nakken added as for 2025, so far, the exports of salmon and fjord trout have risen “by an impressive 18 percent.”

Twenty years ago, Norwegian seafood arrived in Thailand mostly frozen; today, 90% of these fish arrives fresh, transported by air. Continued …

  • Israeli Tourist Busted for Selling Magic Mushrooms on Koh Samui – Continued …
  • Chinese Tenants Flee Without Paying Rent, Trash Property in Prachinburi – Continued …
  • Thailand Cracks Down on Foreign Students Working Illegally – Continued …
  • Thirteen Chinese Nationals Arrested for Working Illegally in Rayong – Continued …
  • Vietnamese Nationals Arrested for Illegal Gold Prospecting in Loei Forest – Continued …

Consumer confidence drops for third month in a row

The consumer confidence index (CCI) dropped for a third consecutive month in April to hit its lowest level in seven months, attributed to concerns over U.S. tariffs, falling agricultural product prices, and political uncertainties. The CCI decreased from 56.7 in March to 55.4 in April, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

The survey suggests consumers are aware of slow economic growth, rising living costs, and the likelihood of an intensified trade war, all of which are contributing to their declining confidence now and in the near future, said Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the UTCC. Continued …

Government Unveils Support Measures for Businesses Amid US Tariff Concerns

The Thai government has launched urgent measures to bolster businesses affected by new U.S. tariff policies, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira.

Following directives from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Finance Ministry yesterday instructed state financial institutions to adjust their operational strategies by reducing profit targets to allocate funds for economic stimulus programs and assistance schemes for affected entrepreneurs. Continued … 

Senate panel demands referendum on casino bill

A Senate special committee examining the proposed casino-entertainment complex bill has called for a referendum on the controversial project, warning the draft bill may contravene the constitution if passed into law.

At a meeting of the committee chaired by Sen. Veerapun Suvannamai yesterday, the focus was on reviewing the proposed legislation and scrutinizing the essential details of the draft law. Continued … 

Major Thai energy companies post bumper Q1 profits

Major Thai energy firms managed to reap profits in this year’s first quarter, despite a global economic slowdown and geopolitical conflicts.

Despite different approaches to earning revenue, energy conglomerate Bangchak Corp. (BCP) and Electricity Generating (EGCO), a subsidiary of state-owned Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, announced their first quarter results, with BCP posting a net profit of 2.11 billion baht and EGCO seeing its net profit soar to over 3.5 billion baht. Continued … 

Thailand to introduce “Salt Tax” with tiered rates

Following the implementation of the “sugar tax,” which took full effect on April 1, Thailand’s Excise Department is moving ahead with plans to introduce a “salt tax.” Officials reveal that the new tax will adopt a tiered-rate structure similar to the sugar tax.

Industry observers are closely watching how this policy will impact the beverage, snack, and food sectors, where companies are already accelerating development of “low sugar” and “low sodium” products to stay competitive. Experts point out that these tax measures are set to fundamentally reshape the market landscape. Continued …

Thai taxman aims to tighten enforcement

The Revenue Department has vowed to tighten enforcement of tax collection from four types of businesses to ensure accurate payments. According to Director-general Pinsai Suraswadi, the businesses are restaurants, nightlife establishments, cash-based trading businesses, and pharmacies.

The department is required to survey these businesses every two years, but these surveys have not been performed. Continued …

Thailand Revives Bangkok International Film Festival

Thailand’s new film agency, the Thailand Creative Content Agency (THACCA), has confirmed that the country is relaunching its Bangkok International Film Festival on a large scale in January, 2026.

Surapong Suebwonglee, chairman of the National Soft Power Development Committee of Thailand, announced the news during a Cannes Marche panel in which he also outlined THACCA’s vision for supporting and expanding the vibrant Thai film industry. Continued … 

CP Foods records profit surge of 642%

Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF), an agro-industrial and food conglomerate, reported a record-breaking performance in the first quarter, with a net profit of 8.55 billion baht, up 642% year-on-year.

Prasit Boondoungprasert, chief executive of CPF, attributed this performance to efficiency improvements and cost reductions throughout the entire supply chain. Continued …

Tourism reform called for as foreign arrivals in Thailand plunge

Thailand needs to urgently address the free fall in foreign arrivals, which is more pronounced this quarter among both leisure and corporate travelers, by reforming the sector and creating new destinations, according to a former head of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Yuthasak Supasorn, former governor of the TAT and current chairman of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand, said foreign arrivals have contracted 1% this year as of May 11, attributed to a decrease from the East Asian market, which typically comprises 60% of the inbound market. Continued …

TAT launches 12 campaigns to boost tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has unveiled 12 travel campaigns tailored to a variety of lifestyle subcultures, aimed at boosting domestic tourism during the green (rainy) season. Launched under the “Year of Celebration” initiative, the campaigns promote travel across 55 selected provinces, with a target to generate no less than 500 million baht in tourism revenue.

Kritsada Tanthetthit, secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, stated on Wednesday that this initiative is a key component of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025, launched to help revitalize Thailand’s tourism economy during the green season (June–September 2025). Continued …

AOT Reports 36 Billion Baht in Revenue, 68 Million Passengers

Airports of Thailand (AOT) has announced strong financial and operational results for the first half of fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 – March 2025), reporting total revenue of 36.2 billion baht and a net profit of over 10.3 billion baht.

Passenger numbers soared to 68.42 million across its six airports, marking an 11.8% increase compared to the same period last year. Continued …

Similan Islands to close for five months

The Similan Islands will be closed for five months for natural rehabilitation and management elevation, with e-tickets required for all tourists upon reopening.

The closure to the public and tourists begins today and will last until Oct 14, said Warawut Saengthong, acting chief of Mu Ko Similan National Park, located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Phang Nga province. Continued …

Illegal beach bars bulldozed in Phuket tourist crackdown

Phuket officials have swooped in on Surin Beach, tearing down makeshift beach bars and restaurants in a two-day operation to reclaim public land from illegal businesses cashing in on tourist traffic.

Under the watchful eye of Phuket Gov. Sophon Suwanrat, Thalang district authorities, backed by a small army of police, soldiers, forestry officers, and local enforcers, began dismantling the illegal structures on Wednesday, and wrapped up yesterday. The crackdown went off without a hitch — even as monsoon rains lashed the coastline. Continued …

Tourist Spots King Cobras Outside Hotel Room In Thailand, Freaks Out

A man vacationing in Thailand was left stunned after he spotted massive snakes outside his hotel room. The chilling moment, captured in a resurfaced clip, shows the traveler pulling back his room’s curtains for a scenic view, only to be horrified by a huge snake on the lawn.

In the video, he said, “My hands are shaking. I just woke up and opened the hotel curtains, and I am never going outside again.” The man then panned the camera to show the snakes more clearly, zooming in on a massive, long snake outside his room. He revealed that more snakes were emerging from a nearby hole. Continued and video …

US tariffs take centre stage at APEC trade gathering

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation’s trade gathering comes to a close today with divisions over U.S. tariffs and reforms to the world trade body putting the adoption of a joint statement in doubt, according to some diplomats. Continued …

Singapore Airlines to pay staff over 7 months’ bonus

Singapore Airlines will reward employees with a profit-sharing bonus worth over seven months after delivering full-year net income of S$2.78 billion (71 billion baht) that beat analyst estimates. Employees will be paid 7.45 months’ bonus, lower than the 7.94 months received a year ago. Continued … 

Massive solar storm causes worldwide blackouts, worst is yet to come

The sun unleashed the strongest solar flare of the year Wednesday, triggering strong radio blackouts across the globe. The solar X-class flare erupted from a newly emerging from a cold, dark region known as AR4087. is the most intense in the solar storm scale — capable of disrupting communications, damaging satellites, and even threatening power grids on Earth. 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
baht, bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, covid, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand islands, tourism

Wednesday’s news-May 14

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Centara named one of world’s best/Police arrest theft suspects/Reader feedback/Baht poised to weaken/Wet season begins tomorrow/Heavy rain warning/New Covid wave less dangerous/Reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses/Liquor law may be eased further/Thai craft beer boom/Bangkok Building Collapse/Want to hear a tiger cub roar?/Pattani Bomb Attack/Pattaya cops accused of coverup/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Economists Warn of Trade Pitfalls/Thailand eyes stronger US ties/Warning over new VAT proposal/Find new export markets/TOURISM: Foreign tourists decline 1.04%/Time to Rethink, Rebuild, and Regenerate/Campaign to Elevate Domestic Tourism/The case against travel/Out of touch: The Case Against Travel/Thai retailers shift focus/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Chiang Mai Named Safest City/CLIMATE THAILAND: The role of hydrogen in clean power/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

Hua Hin’s Centara named one of world’s best hotels

Continued …

Cha Am police arrest theft suspects

Continued …

Re: Foreigners behaving badly

“I seem to see a headline which says “foreigner behaving badly” about once a week in this publication. How about reporting the Thai behaving badly incidents, which are hugely more pro rata? All we want is balance. How about reporting the actual amount of traffic accidents in the Hua Hin city on a monthly basis and split them up into Thai/faring incidents. All we want is balance!” – Tony

Editor: Actually, “Foreigners behaving badly” is posted almost daily – and is a reminder that we are just guests here and should behave accordingly. Sorry that you are offended but if you don’t qualify then you shouldn’t be, As to Thais behaving badly – this is their country and there is plenty of news reported about their actions. As to Hua Hin traffic reports, we post what has been reported.

Re: Hua Hin electrocutions

“Allow me to point out that it’s absolutely incomprehensible that people still have to lose their lives due to electrocution in this day and age! Be it in Hua Hin, Phuket, Bangkok, or anywhere else. This should be eliminated as quickly as possible. Because no one, no one, can recognize such a danger. And not everyone can just stay home when it rains. Please change this as soon as possible! Human lives are at stake. And it can happen to anyone.” – RBM

Baht poised to weaken further

The baht is expected to depreciate to around 33.80 against the U.S. dollar this week, driven by a firmer greenback following the temporary pause in the U.S.-China tariff war. However, the Thai currency is expected to remain volatile.

Roong Sanguanruang, senior vice president for global markets planning at Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri), said the bank expects the baht to depreciate to a range of 33.00-33.80 per dollar this week due to heightened uncertainties. Continued …

Wet season officially begins in Thailand tomorrow

The rainy season will officially begin tomorrow, the Meteorological Department announced. Director-general Sukanyanee Yawinchan said yesterday the wet season’s official start was dependent on the following three conditions:

Continuing rain over 60% or more of the north, northeast, Central Plain and east regions, a southwesterly wind at an altitude of about 1.5 kilometers, and an easterly at the higher altitude of 10 kilometers. Continued …

Heavy rain warning across 46 Thai provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) today sounded the alarm with a dire weather warning. An impending deluge is set to drench 46 provinces, including Bangkok – with 70% of the area bracing for a serious soaking.

South Thailand (east coast): Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures range from 23 to 25°C at night to 31 to 34°C during the day, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometers per hour. Continued …

New Covid wave less dangerous, most don’t need a jab

A doctor who specializes in respiratory diseases urged the public to be mindful of the new wave of Covid-19 now spreading in Thailand but not panic, because the virus is now less dangerous.

Dr. Manoon Leechawengwong, head of ICU specializing in respiratory diseases, critically ill patients, and elderly diseases at Vichaiyut Hospital, wrote online that the Covid-19 virus currently spreading here has evolved on its own, greatly reducing the severity of the disease compared to early outbreaks. Continued …

How to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses in Thailand

Managing medical expenses in Thailand is important as healthcare costs continue to rise. The country’s healthcare system includes both public and private options, but even with the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) for citizens, many still face high out-of-pocket medical expenses.

This guide offers practical tips to help reduce these expenses, such as choosing the right health insurance, focusing on preventive care, and using available resources. Whether you’re a long-term resident or new to Thailand, these strategies can make quality healthcare more affordable and easier to access. Continued …

Liquor law may be eased further

The government plans to expand the venues at which alcoholic beverages can be sold on a daily basis after a new law was enacted last week, allowing five categories of venues to sell liquor.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said yesterday the new law published in the Royal Gazette on Friday — which took effect on Saturday — maintains the general ban on alcohol sales on the Buddhist festivals of Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asanha Bucha, as well as at the beginning and end of Buddhist Lent. Continued …

Thai craft beer boom: New regulations fuel brewery growth

Thailand’s Cabinet has given the thumbs up to a draft ministerial regulation that could reshape the future of alcohol production across the nation. Set forth by the Excise Department under the Ministry of Finance, this regulation aims to ease barriers for burgeoning alcohol producers, especially small community distilleries.

The initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to bolster local craftsmanship and uplift the nation’s soft power through homegrown spirits. The regulation is poised to empower smaller breweries and distilleries by allowing craft beer manufacturers and brew pubs to sell their draft beer beyond the confines of their production facilities. Continued …

Bangkok Building Collapse: 17 Arrests Sought After Deadly Disaster

Police in Bangkok are poised to issue arrest warrants for 17 individuals connected to the catastrophic collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building. The March 28 disaster occurred following an earthquake centered in Myanmar and claimed numerous lives. Those being targeted include engineers, project supervisors, and executives from the construction contractor.

Investigators are targeting individuals from the Italian-Thai Development and China Railway No.10 Engineering Group Co. joint venture, as well as construction supervisors and engineers. These suspects may face charges of failing to uphold engineering standards, resulting in fatalities, under Sections 227 and 238 of the Criminal Code. Continued …

‘Want to hear a tiger cub roar? It’s unforgettable!’

Conservationists have shared an adorable video of a baby tiger attempting its very best roar. “Want to hear a tiger cub roar? It’s unforgettable!” says Ginette Hemley, senior vice president for wildlife at World Wildlife Fund (WWF). “Turn your sound on for a treat.”

Video 

The video shows a mother tiger and her three cubs strolling past camera traps in the Dawna Tenasserim Landscape. The area of land, which is shared by Thailand and Myanmar, is “home to the largest population of wild tigers in mainland Southeast Asia,” she says. Continued …

Pattani Bomb Attack on Paramilitary Truck Injures Two Soldiers

Tensions have again escalated in the restive southern province after an improvised explosive device (IED) targeted a military truck yesterday afternoon, leaving two paramilitary rangers injured.

The incident occurred in the Ban To Tita area, Yaring District, along Highway 42 between Pattani and Narathiwat. The vehicle, belonging to the 44th Ranger Regiment Task Force, sustained damage, with shattered side windows and other blast-related impacts. Continued … 

Sex, lies and seaside sweeps: Pattaya cops accused of cover up

Pattaya cops are under fire after a recent crackdown on foreign sex workers along Pattaya Beach was branded a “PR stunt” by furious locals and expats, who say Thai officials are ignoring the city’s deeper problems while putting on a show for the cameras.

Critics say the real problem isn’t just sex workers on the beach, but the double standard in enforcement and the rampant environmental neglect that continues to blight the city. While foreign freelancers are rounded up in high-profile swoops, Walking Street’s bars, go-gos, and massage joints remain untouched. Continued …

  • British and French Tourists Clash in Phuket Nightclub Stabbing – Continued …
  • Foreign tourists take tip box on Phi Phi – Continued …
  • Vietnamese fruit broker arrested for smuggling 16 tons of avocados – Continued …

Economists Warn of Trade Pitfalls for Thailand as US-China Tensions Ease

A fragile truce in the trade spat between the United States and China could spell trouble for Thailand if it fails to swiftly secure favorable trade deals, economists have warned.

Experts suggest the recent agreement between the two economic giants is a temporary respite rather than a lasting resolution, with the underlying tensions still carrying the risk of escalating into a technology or currency war down the line. Continued …

Thailand eyes stronger US ties through corporate investments

Thai corporations are pursuing further investment plans in the United States in a bid to facilitate ongoing Thailand–U.S. tariff negotiations.

This strategic move follows the participation of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), which led a delegation of leading Thai private sector representatives to the SelectUSA Investment Summit 2025 in Washington DC, taking place through today. Continued …

Warning over new VAT proposal

The proposal to lower the value-added tax (VAT) registration threshold to include businesses with annual revenue of less than 1.8 million baht could increase the burden on small retailers already grappling with weak consumer spending and intense competition, according to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn.

Only businesses with annual revenue of 1.8 million baht or more are required to register for VAT in the current tax code. Once registered, they must submit VAT documents to the Revenue Department every month, even if there is no VAT due for that period. Continued …

Businesses urged to find new export markets

Thai entrepreneurs should start seeking new export markets as U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policy scheduled to take effect in July could increase trade risks, says Vikrom Kromadit, chairman and acting chief executive of industrial estate developer Amata Corp.

Trump slapped a 36% tariff on Thai exports to the U.S. starting on April 9, then decided to postpone enforcement for 90 days to allow Thailand to negotiate to address the trade imbalance between the two countries. Continued …

Thailand welcomes nearly 13 million foreign tourists, a 1.04% decline

As of May 11, a total of 12,948,032 foreign tourists have entered Thailand since Jan. 1 — a 1.04% decrease compared to the same period last year.

According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, these visitors have generated approximately 613.17 billion baht in tourism revenue. In the first 11 days of May, with the low season now in full effect, Thailand recorded 851,912 foreign tourist arrivals. Continued …

Thailand Tourism: Time to Rethink, Rebuild, and Regenerate

I have had the privilege of living and working in Thailand since 1991, and over the decades I’ve seen this beautiful country evolve into one of the world’s most beloved travel destinations. From the post-Gulf War recovery years to the boom of the early 2000s, and more recently the challenges of COVID-19, Thai tourism has been through its share of highs and lows.

Today, Thailand faces another pivotal moment. A downturn in international arrivals is challenging us to pause, reassess, and reimagine what tourism in Thailand could — and should — look like. And in my view, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I believe it’s a much-needed opportunity. Continued …

TAT Launches ‘Grand Moment’ Campaign to Elevate Domestic Tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched “Grand Moment”, a domestic campaign under the national initiative “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025”.

Centered on three core themes – Moment of Giving, Moment of Memory, and Moment of Miracle – the campaign will introduce nine unique travel experiences across the country. Two projects are already live, with the remaining seven set to roll out from June onward. Continued …

The case against travel

As the travel season was starting in the northern hemisphere, philosopher Agnes Callard ruffled the wings of many with her essay “The Case Against Travel”. “Travel turns us into the worst version of ourselves while convincing us that we’re at our best,” was the conclusion.

The red-hot 2,500-word polemic was printed in The New Yorker just as the summer holidays were heating up. In it she takes turns to bash hospitality, Abu Dhabi, the Grand Canyon, and the Louvre. Continued …

Out of touch: The Case Against Travel

A University of Chicago professor of philosophy has written a column in The New Yorker saying travel is pointless for most people and they shouldn’t be doing it.

Her thesis is that most “tourists” learn nothing from travel (an assertion unsupported by cited facts) – traveling is just a quick experience – and upon return today’s travelers have not learned much nor changed as a person. Therefore, their travel served no purpose. Continued …

Plunge in Chinese tourists hits souvenir sales; Thai retailers shift focus

The Thai retail and souvenir industries are feeling the widespread impact of a sharp decline in Chinese tourists — traditionally a major driver of spending. Companies like Central Pattana, Big C, and One Bangkok are diversifying into new markets such as the Middle East and Europe, while ramping up events to maintain momentum.

Chinese tourists have long been major spenders in Thailand, especially on souvenirs. However, recent safety concerns — including the “Xing Xing’s kidnapping” incident and a subsequent earthquake — have significantly shaken confidence, leading to a steep drop in Chinese visitor numbers. Continued …

Chiang Mai Named Safest City in ASEAN

Chiang Mai has been recognized as the safest city in ASEAN for 2025, according to Numbeo. The city topped the list, which evaluated crime levels and feelings of safety both day and night.

Numbeo, a Serbian-based website that offers users data on living costs and quality of life, ranked the cities using public perception of crime, as well as concerns about specific criminal activities like robbery, theft, assault, and public safety threats. Continued …

The role of hydrogen in clean power

On a hot afternoon in Chanthaburi province’s Koh Jik, a small island striving for 100% renewable energy, a new power system is being tested. The goal? To see if hydrogen can keep the lights on when there’s no sun or wind.

Video 

Koh Jik, cut off from the mainland’s electricity grid, is well known for its solar power. It is one of the communities that tried solar panels two decades ago. Currently, most of the energy consumed is derived from solar panels and wind turbines. The community has received many environmental awards, including the 2024 Green Globe Award for its exemplary environmental conservation. 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
bangkok, exports, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-May 12

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Hua Hin Marathon/Summer storms, heavy rain/Dangerous Massage Spots/Bangkok building collapse/Brits tapping GoFundMe/Cow heads piled on roadside/Thailand faces mental health crisis/Teachers call for protection/Peace in Pattani?/Jeeno wins 5th LPGA title/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Concerned about economic crisis/Event industry in crisis/Ice cream exports surge/TOURISM: Tourism in the doldrums/Thailand’s Tourism Crossroads/An elitist destination/Expats lose faith in tourism direction/Illegal Tour Operators and Guides/Are Israeli tourists ‘Building Thailand’?/CLIMATE THAILAND: Sustainable housing the new trend/Behavior shift key to ending plastic use/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

Hua Hin Marathon draws 3,500 runners

Continued …

Thailand set for summer storms, heavy rain

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for summer storms in upper Thailand and heavy rain in the south, posing a risk of short-term flooding.

In the south, increased rainfall and heavy rain are expected in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, and Trang due to stronger southwest winds covering the Andaman Sea and the south. Continued …

Thai Health Chiefs Warn Against Dangerous Massage Spots After Fatal Incident

Thailand’s Public Health Ministry has issued a stark warning about the dangers of massaging certain areas of the body, following a tragic incident where a neck massage reportedly led to the recipient’s death.

Health officials and experts in Thai traditional medicine have highlighted specific “danger zones  that should be strictly avoided during massage, including along bones, major blood vessels, and nerve centers. Continued …

Bangkok building collapse rescue ends; probe into malpractice begins

Efforts to retrieve bodies following the collapse of the 2.1-billion-baht State Audit Office building in Bangkok, instigated by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, have been concluded, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s announcement Saturday.

Suriyachai Rawiwon, director of the BMA’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, reported that the final areas, including a lift shaft beneath the basement, had been accessed, revealing no bodies or victims after all six shafts were inspected. Continued …

Brits increasingly tapping GoFundMe rather than medical insurance

An increasing number of Brits in Thailand face medical bills they cannot pay. So their distraught families are focusing on the biggest crowdfunding platform – GoFundMe. The profit-making fund raiser , in total, raised over US$40 billion from 150 million donors worldwide for a variety of worthy causes. A third of all the cases involve raising cash for ongoing hospital treatment or, occasionally, for hygienic disposal of the deceased.

As British tourist and expat numbers to Thailand have fallen over the past 20 years – from 800,000 annually to maybe 500,000, though detailed statistics are not available – GoFundMe paradoxically has become more popular. A review of Google, with the help of artificial intelligence, indicates that there was a total of 9 British appeals for help with medical bills in 2018 and at least 36 in 2024. Continued … 

Cow heads piled on roadside spark health concerns

Health concerns have mounted after the discovery of two large piles of severed cow heads along the roadside in Pathum Thani province. A video posted online Saturday showed dozens of discarded cow heads, accompanied by a message asking, “So many animal parts, who brought them here?”

Local officials found one large pile of both decayed and freshly severed cow heads, with another pile nearby on reclaimed private land. The piles attracted many flies and emitted a strong stench. Cowhides and innards were also scattered along the roadside. Continued …

Thailand faces mental health crisis with 15 suicide deaths daily

Thailand is grappling with a deepening mental health crisis, with an average of 15 people dying by suicide each day, and seven suicide attempts occurring every two hours.

According to the Department of Mental Health, between Jan. 1, 2020, and Feb. 20, 2025, among 6 million surveyed Thais, 9.1% (approximately 560,000 people) were at risk of depression, 5.9% (300,000 people) were at risk of suicide, and 7.9% (480,000 people) were experiencing high stress levels. Continued …

Teachers call for protection as southern violence escalates

The Federation of Teachers Association of Thailand (FTT) is calling on the government to boost safety as violence escalates in the deep south, demanding enhanced security protocols, especially for educators and students in high-risk areas.

Prathum Ruangrit, president of the Southern Teachers’ Federation, said the FTT wants the government to expedite efforts to safeguard schools, teachers, and students in the three southern border provinces of Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat, and four districts of Songkhla. Continued …

Why We Can’t Be Optimistic About Peace in Pattani

The issue of the three southern border provinces (Pattani, Narathiwat, and Yala) is a complex issue and involves deeply challenging core issues. In light of the recent deadly attacks on civilians, predominantly non-Malay and non-Muslim, the public’s attention was drawn to the protracted conflict in the deep south anew. First, what is the truth?

Earlier this week, the BRN (Barisan Revolusi Nasional Melayu Patani) has denied responsibility for the killing of civilians, including a disabled person and a Buddhist novice. If their claim is true, the question then becomes: who did it? Continued …

Thailand’s Jeeno wins 5th LPGA title

Thailand’s Atthaya “Jeeno” Thitikul etched her name in the history books once again yesterday, capturing her fifth career LPGA Tour title at the 2025 Mizuho Americas Open in dominant fashion.

Jeeno surged past the field to finish at 17-under-par 271, breaking both the 54-hole (202) and 72-hole scoring records previously held by world No. 1 Nelly Korda. It was a week of milestones and mastery for the 22-year-old, who also set the 36-hole record (135) en route to becoming the first Thai player to win the Mizuho Americas Open. Continued …

  • Ukrainian Arrested at Phuket Airport Over Condominium Vandalism – Continued …
  • Lao woman caught smuggling 137,000 ecstasy pills across Thai border – Continued …
  • Noisy Indian Tourists’ Pool Party Raided in Pattaya – Continued …

Most Thais concerned about economic crisis amid limited savings

A majority of Thais are worried about the country’s economic situation, with many saying their emergency savings would not last a month without income, according to a recent opinion survey.

The survey, conducted by Suan Dusit University (Suan Dusit Poll), was carried out among 1,229 people nationwide through both online and field methods between May 6-9. The results were released yesterday. Continued …

Thai event industry in crisis

Upathum Nisitsukcharoen, president of the Event Management Assn. (EMA), stated that 2025 has been one of the toughest years in recent memory for the event industry. Both government and private sector events have declined significantly, with companies across the board — small, medium, and large — struggling with severe liquidity issues.

He attributed the downturn to a combination of global and domestic factors, including economic uncertainty fueled by Trump-era policies, the World Bank’s downgrade of Thailand’s GDP forecast from 2.9% to 1.6%, and a tight financial climate across the broader economy. “It’s a total collapse,” he said. Continued …

Thai ice cream exports surge, leading Asia

Thai ice cream is booming — No.1 in Asia, No. 4 globally. Exports averaged $106 million annually over five years, up 11%, driven largely by free trade agrrment benefits boosting market access.

Anukool Pruksanusak, deputy spokesperson for the office of the orime minister, announced that Thai ice cream has emerged as a standout product on the global stage, gaining popularity among consumers of all ages, especially during the summer months. Continued …

Tourism in the doldrums

The tourism industry posted underwhelming results for the first four months this year, as the international market contracted by 0.2% year-on-year. In response, last week the cabinet approved a series of measures aimed at reassuring the industry of the government’s commitment to rescuing it from a downturn.

As the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) prepares to downgrade its target for foreign arrivals this year, while retaining the goal for higher revenue growth, significant challenges remain. Continued …

Thailand’s Tourism Crossroads – Chasing high spenders or embracing mass tourism again?

As Thailand basks in the glow of a renewed tourism surge, a deeper question is stirring both within government circles and among long-term foreign residents: Should the country chase the numbers once more, or shift gears and focus on attracting peace-loving, high-spending European tourists?

After years of promoting mass tourism, the Thai government is now signaling a pivot. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently laid out a strategy that centers on “high-value and sustainable tourism.” This isn’t just a slogan. Authorities are promoting long-stay, big-spending visitors over the pre-pandemic model of sheer volume. In a bid to lift per-visitor revenue and reduce the burden on popular destinations like Pattaya and Phuket, the strategy is shifting toward smaller tourist volumes but with higher spending potential. Continued …

White Lotus effect may make it an elitist destination and turn off mass market

The premiere of The White Lotus Series Three in February didn’t give Thailand a major boost in foreign tourism numbers. However, booking and room rates on Ko Samui, where it was filmed, are significantly up.

This particular series was all about spiritualism, meaning, and wellness. The show, which tried to bridge the gap between Western sensibilities and Thai spiritualism, may have ended up confusing at least some potential tourists. Indeed, the kingdom may appear as an elitist destination to mass-market punters who are still its mainstay. Continued …

Strong Baht, Shaky Strategy – Expats lose faith in Thailand’s tourism direction

As Thailand reports a surge in tourist arrivals amid a strong Thai baht, many long-term foreign residents are expressing growing skepticism about the government’s tourism policies, questioning whether the current momentum will last through the upcoming winter season.

Online expat communities have been vocal, with some calling Thailand’s tourism strategy inconsistent and unreliable. After months of concerns over a supposed tourism downturn, the country is once again experiencing an influx of visitors — but not everyone sees this as a sign of long-term recovery. Continued …

Thailand Launches Major Blitz on Illegal Tour Operators and Guides

The Thai government is stepping up its efforts to clamp down on illegal tour operators and unlicensed guides across the country. A new “Joint Operations Center” has been established by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, working alongside five key agencies, to tackle the persistent issues of nominee-run tour businesses and rogue guides.

Deputy government spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan announced on Saturday that this concerted effort will involve rigorous inspections of tour companies and guides at prominent tourist hotspots nationwide. Continued …

Are Israeli tourists ‘Building Thailand’?

A video showing an Israeli tourist arguing with a restaurant staffer on Koh Phangan – and exclaiming that “my money is building Thailand” – has stirred heated debate across Thai social media. Many netizens criticized the comment as arrogant or disrespectful, while others questioned whether the claim holds any truth. As emotions flare, it’s worth asking: how much do Israeli tourists really contribute to Thailand’s tourism economy?

The video shows an Israeli woman arguing over food and service, ending with the now-notorious claim that Israeli tourist spending is propping up the Thai economy. The phrase sparked anger and mockery, but also opened a broader conversation: Is Israeli tourism a significant force in Thailand’s travel sector? Continued …

Sustainable housing the new trend

Sustainability has become a defining factor in the housing market, with younger generations demanding homes reflecting their environmental values – pushing developers to move beyond green labels and deliver truly responsible, future-proof residential solutions.

Rising environmental awareness is transforming buyer expectations, prompting developers to adopt authentic, forward-looking sustainability practices that span the entire development process – not just surface-level features or end-stage certifications. Continued … 

Behavior shift key to ending plastic use

Southeast Asia is no stranger to the plastic crisis. Despite growing awareness and countless “reduce, reuse, recycle” campaigns, single-use plastic consumption remains stubbornly high. The big question is, why?

Plastic pollution is not just a waste-management problem – it is also a behavioral issue. At its core, plastic use is a human-driven problem. Habits, convenience, and social norms often override good intentions, even when consumers understand the harm plastic poses to the environment. Without addressing these behavioral drivers, policies and technologies will always fall short. Continued …

Vietnam, Russia agree to nuclear power plant deal

Vietnam and Russia have agreed to quickly negotiate and sign agreements on building nuclear power plants in Vietnam. The Southeast Asian nation has restarted plans to develop nuclear power plants that were suspended nearly a decade ago, as part of its efforts to ramp up its power-generation capacity to support its fast-growing economy. 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
bangkok, covid, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand beaches, thailand islands, tourism

Saturday’s news-May 10

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Feedback Re: Expat tax/Alcohol sales ban lifted/Alcohol sales still banned tonight/Covid-19 surge/Over 41,000 COVID-19 cases/Severe summer storms forecast/Flooded with low-quality steel/Bangkok building collapse: 89 dead/Herbs in hospitals/Kui Buir Wild Elephant Dies/Two high-rise balcony falls/Foreigners behaving badly: Foreign tourists miss the message/ECONOMY: Thailand’s inflation turns negative/Tariff hikes to have far-reaching effects/Sacred oxen predict bumper trade year/Casinos would tarnish Thailand’s image/Thailand Moves Forward with Casino Plan/Phuket nominee crackdown/TOURISM: The sharp decline of Chinese tourists/No ‘White Lotus’ boon yet/Trat Islands become top destinations/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok’s Best and Worst Places to Live/Stone statues at Wat Pho and Wat Arun/Attractions in Khlong San/CLIMATE THAILAND: 972% tariff on Thai solar cells/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

Re: Expat tax

“I am a pensioner and receive an AHV pension from Switzerland. This is a state pension, and state pensions are not taxed in Thailand, nor are assets imported. When discussing taxes, please differentiate between income with a (required) work permit (clearly taxable) and pensioners with state pensions, which are not taxable and therefore do not need a tax number and do not simply receive one (notice at the Hua Hin tax office).

“I left at the beginning of April and re-entered at the end of April. I renewed my retirement visa last December without any problems (for the past 14 years), and I was never asked for a TIN number or a tax return. We pensioners are of no interest when it comes to taxes.” – Julie

Editor: First, the new expat tax environment changed at the end of March, so what happened in December has no bearing on today’s situation. Second, we have heard reports of immigration offices requiring Thai tax IDs regardless of pension status or country double taxation agreements. Because there are more than 90 such country tax agreements, and because local immgration officials are unlikely to know how to address each and every one, some offices are defaulting to asking everyone for a tax ID. Expat News is trying to determine what Hua Hin immigration officials are requiring at this time, and is seeking first-hand accounts by expats who have recently renewed, or tried to renew, their annual visas. If you qualify, you can describe your experience at aim@hhexpatnews.com.

Buddhist holiday alcohol sales ban lifted, with exceptions

In a shift that reflects changing attitudes in Thailand’s regulatory policies, the government has announced the easing of its alcohol ban on five traditionally sacred Buddhist holidays. As per the announcement made today in the Royal Gazette, these adjustments come into effect immediately, allowing more flexibility for specific venues to serve alcohol.

Previously, a blanket ban on alcohol sales was enforced on Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asarnha Bucha, Khao Phansa, and Ok Phansa. However, recognizing the necessity to cater to the country’s socio-economic demands, the prime minister’s office issued a revised order specifying where exceptions will apply. Continued …

Alcohol sales still banned tonight, most of Sunday in Hua Hin

Hua Hin ban will be from 6 pm today until 6 pm Sunday due to local elections. Continued …

Covid-19 surge: Are new vaccinations necessary?

Dr. Yong Poovorawan, head of the Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University, has issued a public statement warning that Covid-19 is currently spreading significantly in Thailand, with more than 5,000 people hospitalized each week.

Yong posted an update today addressing public concern about whether vaccination is still necessary. He explained that any disease that can be prevented should be, and while vaccination is one way, other methods like hand washing, mask wearing, and avoiding crowded places remain important for reducing transmission. Continued …

Over 41,000 COVID-19 cases reported in Thailand this year

More than 41,000 people were infected with COVID-19 and 15 died in Thailand between Jan. 1 and May 8 this year, which was fewer than the 777,730 infections and 222 fatalities over the same period last year, according to Dr. Panumas Yanawetsakul, director-general of the Diseases Control Department.

Meanwhile, more than 322,000 people were infected with influenza during the same period and 43 died. Most infections were found in the same age group. Continued …

Severe summer storms forecast across Thailand this weekend

Outbreaks of summer storms — including thunderstorms, gusty winds, hail, and lightning — expected to begin in the northeast and expand to most other regions today, the Thai Meteorological Department forecast this morning.

South (east coast): Hot day with scattered thundershowers and isolated heavy rain in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat; minimum 24-27°C, maximum 34-36°C; waves about a meter high and above 2 meters high in thundershowers. Continued …

Thailand flooded with low-quality steel, FTI warns of construction safety crisis

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has raised an alarm over a serious safety threat: IF (induction furnace) steel now dominates 55% of the rebar market in Thailand, amounting to over 1.6 million tons annually.

The FTI warns that the widespread use of this substandard steel could compromise the structural safety of both public and private buildings and is urging the government to take immediate and decisive action. Continued …

Bangkok building collapse: 89 dead, 7 still missing as search nears completion

Progress continues in the recovery and demolition of the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Bangkok. As of yesterday, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) reported that 109 individuals were affected by the incident, with 89 confirmed dead, 4 found alive, 9 injured, and 7 still unaccounted for.

The under-construction 30-story building on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road collapsed on March 28 due to the impact of an 8.2-magnitude earthquake near Mandalay, Myanmar, trapping more than a hundred workers inside. Continued …

Herbs in hospitals: Thailand’s shift to traditional remedies stirs controversy

Doctors at Thai state hospitals will now start prescribing traditional remedies for common illnesses, replacing five modern drugs that are being removed from the National List of Essential Medicines prescribed for free.

Health authorities have assured the public that these herbal options are effective and reduce reliance on pharmaceuticals – but many people are worried by the move. Continued …

Injured Kui Buir Wild Elephant Dies: Autopsy Reveals Multiple Gunshot Wounds

A 50-year-old wild male elephant from Kui Buri National Park has died after a three-day battle for survival, despite the efforts of a veterinary team. An autopsy revealed multiple gunshot wounds throughout the animal’s body.

The elephant, weighing over 3.5 tons, was first spotted on May 5 near Nam Jon Reservoir in Ao Noi subdistrict, Prachuap Khiri Khan, outside the boundaries of Kui Buri National Park. Local villagers noticed the animal was limping heavily, with an apparent injury to its rear left leg. Continued …

Two high-rise balcony falls within minutes of each other

Two people died in the early hours yesterday morning after falling from high-rise condos. One case involved a Malaysian man, a tourist; the other involved the wife of the Mongolian ambassador to Thailand.

The first incident happened in Patong, Phuket, while the second occurred in the Khlong Toei area of Bangkok. Both tragedies occurred within minutes of each other. Continued …

Some foreign tourists embrace Thai norms — others still miss the message

As Thailand continues to attract millions of international visitors each year, a growing divide is emerging between tourists who make an effort to understand and respect local customs — and those who treat the country as a consequence-free playground.

While many foreigners are eager to learn about Thai traditions, etiquette, and values, a vocal number of longtime residents and locals express frustration over a persistent stream of cultural clashes, misunderstandings, and outright disrespect. From public disturbances and street fights to reckless driving and tone-deaf social media content, examples of bad tourist behavior seem to dominate headlines far more than stories of positive engagement. Continued …

  • Australian Man Wanted for Massive Robbery Arrested in Pattaya – Continued …
  • Thai-Ghanaian Fraud Gang Arrested for 200 Million Baht Japan Scam – Continued …

Thailand’s inflation turns negative amid falling energy prices, raising deflation concerns

As the second quarter begins, Thailand has reported a negative inflation rate for the first time in over a year. According to the Ministry of Commerce’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), April’s inflation decreased by 0.22%, driven primarily by falling energy prices, including gasoline, benzene, and electricity rates. Prices of fresh vegetables and chicken eggs also declined, contributing to the overall drop.

Core inflation, which excludes fresh food and energy, rose by 0.98% in April. For the first four months of 2025 (January–April), core inflation increased by 0.91%. Continued …

Tariff hikes to have far-reaching effects: Bank of Thailand

The United States’ tariff hikes are expected to have a prolonged and uncertain impact on Thailand’s economy, particularly in key export-oriented sectors, according to the Bank of Thailand (BoT).

BoT Gov. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput said yesterday that while the full impact is likely to become clearer in the second half of the year, Thailand must brace for significant disruptions, especially if no agreement is reached before a global moratorium on tariff reductions expires in July. Continued …

Sacred oxen predict bumper trade year

As Thailand comes under pressure from the threat of a 36% reciprocal tariff by the United States on its exports, a note of optimism emerged from the ancient Royal Ploughing Ceremony, where sacred oxen foretold a prosperous year for international trade.

While the government anxiously awaits a formal invitation from Washington to open talks aimed at mitigating the impact of the steep levy, the seven centuries-old rite offered a timely morale boost. The United States is one of the country’s major export markets, accounting for over 18% of total shipments, underscoring the high economic stakes at play. Continued …

Casinos would tarnish Thailand’s image, says bank chief

The governor of the Bank of Thailand (BOT) has issued a warning about the potential for the legalization of casinos to tarnish Thailand’s international reputation, portraying a “gray” image and posing economic risks.

Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput stressed the importance of the nation maintaining a “correct” and “clean” profile by adhering to regulations. Speaking at a “Meet the Press” event yesterday, he voiced his support for bolstering the wellness sector as a higher-value, lower-risk alternative to entertainment complexes. Continued …

Thailand Moves Forward with Plans for Entertainment Hub to Revive Tourism

The Thai government is forging ahead with an initiative to establish a large-scale entertainment complex aimed at rejuvenating the nation’s tourism industry. The project is being positioned as a strategic “man-made destination” that will rely entirely on private investment, avoiding the use of public funds or taxpayer money.

The entertainment complex will follow a model similar to Singapore’s, integrating hotels, convention centers, concert venues, and strictly regulated gaming facilities. The entertainment complex will also feature a variety of dining options, luxury retail outlets, and recreational spaces to cater to diverse visitor preferences. Continued …

Phuket nominee crackdown: 23 guilty, 60 firms busted

A massive web of illegal nominee businesses in Phuket has finally unraveled, with 23 people and more than 60 companies found guilty of using fake Thai ownership to skirt the country’s business laws.

The guilty parties — a mix of Thai nationals and corporate entities — were sentenced to 10 years in prison. However, their sentences were halved and suspended for two years, thanks to confessions and previously clean criminal records. Each was also slapped with a 200,000 baht fine and placed on a year-long probation. The companies involved must be dissolved immediately, or face daily fines of 10,000 baht. Continued …

The profound reasons behind the sharp decline of Chinese tourists to Thailand

Thailand is currently facing a major issue with the significant decline in the number of Chinese tourists visiting the country. Some media outlets have even described it as being in a “crisis” stage.

It has been estimated that, for this year, the number of Chinese tourists traveling to Thailand will be around 5 million, compared to a peak of 10 million annually in the past. This issue is garnering attention because Thailand’s economy has long been reliant on tourism, with each successive government promoting the sector as a key factor for economic growth. Continued …

‘White Lotus’ boon yet to materialize

Hotels in the Thailand’s south have yet to feel any impact from the White Lotus HBO series filmed in Thailand, as the volatile global economy and safety concerns regarding the country have affected prospective tourists’ decision-making.

Bill Barnett, managing director of C9 Hotelworks, a hospitality consultancy based in Phuket, said despite the popularity of White Lotus Season 3, which already aired on the streaming platform, Phuket and Samui still haven’t experienced much of an effect on their tourism sector. Continued …

Islands in Thailand’s Trat become top beach destinations

Koh Kut and Koh Mak in Trat province have been attracting more visitors since last month, becoming one of Thailand’s top-searched destinations online, with rooms fully booked.

Since yesterday morning, there were more than 10 trips of transport boats and over 20 of fast ferries arriving at the two islands located in Koh Kut district of this eastern province. Continued …

Bangkok’s Best and Worst Places to Live Revealed in New Index

A new “Bangkok Index” compiled by Rocket Media Lab has offered a revealing snapshot of liveability across the 50 districts of the Thai capital, ranking areas based on a range of environmental and well-being factors.

The index aims to provide a deeper understanding of the city beyond its cultural and economic vibrancy, exposing the underlying structural issues that impact residents’ quality of life, from public services and economic inequality to urban disasters and the environmental crisis. Continued …

Stone statues at Bangkok’s Wat Pho and Wat Arun have an epic story

If you’ve ever strolled along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, you may have passed a quiet pier area known as “Tha Tian” without a second thought. But did you know this spot — whose name translates to “the flattened pier” — has a mythical origin that ties together two of Thailand’s most iconic temples, Wat Pho and Wat Arun?

Video 

This is not just a tale of temples, but a story of friendship, betrayal and an epic battle between two giants that left a lasting mark on the city. Long ago, according to Thai folklore, two mighty giants — the guardians of Wat Pho and Wat Arun — lived in harmony across the river, at peace with each other. Continued …

Attractions in Khlong San

Explore Bangkok’s riverside district of Klong San and discover the city’s oldest Chinese shrine, a charming vintage eatery, a peaceful memorial park, and much more. Video …

US enforces 972% tariff on Thai solar cells

On April 21, the United States announced final anti-dumping (AD) and countervailing (CVD) tariffs on solar panels and components from Thailand. The 47-fold increase in Thai solar panel and component exports to the United States from 2015 to 2023 was a result of the relocation of Chinese production bases to Thailand, leading the United States to observe that China was using Thailand as a production base to avoid tariffs on exports to the United States.

The initial AD/CVD tariffs were announced before the final AD/CVD tariffs were announced on April 21. The final AD/CVD tariffs that Thailand was charged with a total rate of 375% – 972%, which is significantly higher than the initial announced tariffs. Continued …

Pakistan launches retaliatory attacks on India as tensions escalate

Blasts rang out across Indian Kashmir and the Sikh holy city of Amritsar in neighboring Punjab state late on yesterday, with the Indian military saying it was shooting down drones in the worst fighting with Pakistan in nearly three decades. The explosions in Amritsar – the first heard there in the three-day-old conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors – could mark a further expansion in the hostilities that have alarmed world powers. Continued …

Google agrees to pay $1.4 billion to settle 2 privacy lawsuits

Google agreed to pay $1.4 billion to the state of Texas on Friday to settle two lawsuits accusing it of violating the privacy of state residents by tracking their locations and searches, as well as collecting their facial recognition information. 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
bangkok, exports, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, wildlife tourism

Thursday’s news-May 8

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New expat tax: What was your experience?/Feedback/Alcohol ban this weekend/Save your rainwater/Hua Hin Spartans/India-Pakistan affect flights/Wet weekend forecast/Charges imminent in building collapse/Yala province IED attack/Let your cat outside?/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: The cost of US tariffs/Bangkok Port’s Entertainment Complex Plans/Measures to boost Thai exports/Film tariff not big threat/Falling crop prices/Edible Insect Market/Subcon event/THAIFood and beverage show/TOURISM: Thailand Cuts Chinese Tourist Target/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: No turning backs on Pattaya/Video glimpse of tree-dwelling predator/CLIMATE THAILAND: Slowdown in solar panels trade/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

New expat tax: What was your experience?

Earlier this year, Thailand’s expat community learned it would have to pay taxes on any money brought into Thailand. Expats were told they are required to file a Thai tax return if their income is not explicitly excluded under a dual tax agreement (DTA). Since Thailand has more than 90 different country DTAs, Immigration officials were said to be unlikely to handle foreign tax treaties directly and may default to asking for a Thai tax return during visa renewals.

Expat News would like to hear from our readers about this issue, now that the tax filing deadline of March 31 has passed. Have you recently applied for a retirement visa extension? What was your experience? Was a tax filing required for your renewal? Were you denied an extension for not have filed for Thai taxes? Did Immigration understand that your country’s DTA with Thailand meant you didn’t have to file a tax report? Did Immigration even bring the subject up?

We would love to hear of your experience. Please send to aim@hhexpatnews.com.

Re: What are they doing?

“I agree whole heartedly that they are trying to chase foreign people away from living in Thailand. And making it more burdensome and stressful to stay here.” – Rlyn

Alcohol ban this weekend due to election, Buddhist holiday

Continued …

 

PKK officials urge saving rainwater

Continued …

 

Who are the Hua Hin Spartans?

Continued … 

India-Pakistan airspace closure affects flights until Saturday

National flag carrier Thai Airways International has issued a notice regarding the closure of airspace at the India–Pakistan border, which will remain in effect until Saturday, May 10. The closure has resulted in several flight adjustments:

Flights between Bangkok and Pakistan (Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi) are directly affected. Flights to and from India continue to operate as scheduled. Flights between Thailand and Europe will experience extended flight times of approximately 30–40 minutes due to rerouting to avoid restricted airspace. This may cause delays in arrival times. Continued …

Wet weekend forecast

The Meteorological Department has warned of thunderstorms in the upper part of the country between tomorrow and Monday and forecast rainfall for Bangkok throughout the week. In its seven-day forecast, the department said thunderstorms are predicted in the northern and northeastern regions, with some hail, strong winds, heavy rain and lightning in some areas.

Rainfall in Bangkok is forecast to continue for the whole week. For the southern region, rainfall is predicted to decrease through tomorrow, but will increase between Saturday and Monday, with heavy rain in some areas. – Bangkok Post

Charges imminent in Bangkok building collapse

Police are preparing to charge engineers and state audit officials for their roles that contributed to the collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building in Bangkok during the March 28 earthquake.

A Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) source said yesterday more than 100 witnesses have been questioned, with the investigation now about 80% complete. Continued …

Two soldiers injured in Yala province IED attack

Two soldiers were injured in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack targeting military engineers from the 15th Engineer Battalion. The incident occurred yesterday in Raman district, Yala province, as the soldiers were returning to their base after completing a canal dredging mission.

The attack took place in front of a cemetery in the village of Kototura, subdistrict Kototura. Security personnel, including military, police and administrative officers, rushed to the scene to investigate the explosion. Continued …

Should you let your cat outside?

Many cats love fresh air and outdoor adventures – but letting them roam freely isn’t without risk. From traffic and territorial fights to parasites and poisonous plants, dangers lurk just beyond the doorstep.

So, should your furry friend be allowed to roam freely outside, or is it safer to stay indoors? Animal welfare activists from the international organization Four Paws offer these tips to help owners decide. Continued …

Reckless tourist fined for wild elephant selfie

A gung-ho tourist has been slapped with a fine after dangerously cozying up to a wild elephant in Khao Yai National Park, just months after another man was trunked off a moving pickup by a jumbo with attitude.

The tourist traveling from Thailand’s eastern region to Khao Yai National Park got far too close for comfort when he and his entourage stopped to snap selfies with a wild elephant casually strolling along the road. Continued …

Thai business leaders tally cost of US tariffs

The value of Thai exports to the United States could drop by as much as as $43 billion (1.4 trillion baht) over the next decade if 36% import tariffs go ahead, say business leaders.

Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), said the tariff hikes would place significant pressure on exports, employment, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), affecting a broad range of products. Continued … 

Bangkok Port’s Entertainment Complex Plans Unveiled Without Casino

Bangkok’s iconic port is set for a grand transformation, as announced by Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri. About 520 rai of the sprawling 2,353 rai Bangkok Port in Klong Toey district will undergo a significant change, featuring an entertainment complex, cruise terminal, retail areas, office spaces, residential units, shopping malls, and hotels. However, any plans for a casino remain tentative, hinging on future legalization.

The Transport Ministry is committing 20 million baht toward a comprehensive one-year study for this redevelopment. The project will roll out as a public-private partnership, ensuring that the current functions of Bangkok Port and nearby communities remain uninterrupted, emphasized Manaporn. Continued …

Commerce Ministry rolls out measures to boost Thai exports

The Commerce Ministry has launched seven strategic measures and 25 action plans to drive exports of Thai agricultural products worldwide, following the prime minister’s directive to resolve domestic oversupply and increase farmers’ incomes.

Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said yesterday the ministry is working with various agencies to enhance production, marketing, exports, processing, and trade facilitation for a targeted 950,000 tons of fruit. It also includes a strong campaign to boost domestic fruit consumption. Continued …

US film tariff not seen as big threat to Thailand

A threat by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on films produced outside the United States is unlikely to affect foreign film shoots in Thailand in the short term, as most productions have already been planned, according to the Tourism Department.

Trump’s recent announcement has sent shockwaves throughout the global film industry, including in Thailand, which earned 1 billion baht from U.S. film productions last year. Continued …

Farmers raise concern over falling crop prices

Farmers across Thailand are sounding the alarm, as plunging prices for key crops push rural communities deeper into debt, prompting urgent calls for government intervention. In Phichit, for example, watermelon growers are grappling with a price slump that has left tons of fruit unsold in fields.

Kanda Sawangsuk, a village head and farmer, said she planted 38 rai of watermelons this season. While previous years brought wholesale prices of 7–9 baht per kilogram, this year prices have plunged to as low as 2 baht for smaller fruit – and even then, buyers are scarce. Continued …

Thailand Poised To Lead In Edible Insect Market

As the global edible insect market gains momentum, Thailand is poised to become a significant player in this burgeoning industry. With a projected annual growth rate of 25.1% between 2025 and 2030, the edible insect market is expected to reach a value of $1.35 billion by 2024. This growth is fueled by increasing consumer interest in sustainable protein sources, particularly in the form of protein powders, protein bars, and blended insect foods.

Thailand, already the sixth-largest exporter of edible insects globally, has the potential to expand its market share significantly. Despite current export values being relatively low, the country’s rich agricultural knowledge and local practices in insect farming are expected to enhance its competitive edge. Continued …

Subcon event set to create Bt20 billion in trade, investment

The 2025 Subcon Thailand event is expected to generate 20 billion baht in trade and investment value, while facilitating new business cooperation, says the Board of Investment (BoI). The event will be held in Bangkok from May 14-17, offering business opportunities for Thai and foreign companies amid challenges caused by Washington’s new tariff policy and subsequent trade war.

The event covers a variety of industries, including electric vehicles, electronics, home appliances, medical equipment, robotic systems, and aviation. Continued …

THAIFEX-Anuga food and beverage show set for Bt98 billion of orders

The food and beverage show THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2025 is expected to generate purchase orders exceeding 98 billion baht this month. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, director-general of the Department of International Trade Promotion, said the event plays a vital role in providing Thai entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their potential, explore business opportunities, and gain insights into global industry trends.

The event features product showcases, cutting-edge technologies, and new innovations, alongside knowledge-sharing sessions, workshops, and international competitions, all of which will strengthen Thailand’s competitiveness on the global stage, she said. Continued …

Thailand Cuts Chinese Tourist Target, Plans Recovery Campaign

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is citing safety concerns and negative online sentiment as it lowers expectations for Chinese visitors, while launching a 3.5-billion-baht ($108.5 million) recovery plan, including the “Sawasdee Ni Hao” campaign, to rebuild trust and maintain overall tourist arrivals at 35.5 million.

Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), explained that the main problem affecting Thailand’s tourism sector is fear, lack of trust, and the overwhelming flood of negative sentiments on the internet. This has particularly affected sensitive markets such as China. Continued …

No one is turning their backs on Pattaya – here’s what’s really happening

Despite online rumors and grumblings on forums and comment sections, the truth is clear: no one is turning their backs on Pattaya. In fact, following a busy and profitable high season, the current slowdown is simply part of the usual low-season cycle.

But that doesn’t mean everything is perfect in the City of Sea, Sand and Fun. Expats and frequent visitors are speaking out, not out of disdain, but out of love for a place they’ve called a second home for years – or even decades. Continued …

Video glimpse of tree-dwelling predator in Kaeng Krachan park

A tourist passing through a national park in Thailand struck gold with a chance encounter with an exceptionally rare wildcat. The short video shows a diminutive feline with a leopard-like coat and long tail on the side of the road. A few moments later, the cat effortlessly leaps onto a tree and disappears into the forest.

The sighting took place in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand’s largest national park. The wider Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its rich biodiversity. The cat caught on camera by the tourist was later identified as a marbled cat, one of the eight feline species that hunt in the forests of Kaeng Krachan. Continued …

US tariffs, Europe slowdown reshape global solar panels trade

Solar panel makers in Laos and Indonesia, mostly owned by Chinese firms, boosted their share in the U.S. market after steep tariffs hit exports from other Southeast Asian countries, including Cambodia and Thailand, trade data showed.

The U.S. government finalized steep levies on imports of solar cells and modules from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia in April, following two rounds of tariffs in June and November last year, to prevent dumping by mostly Chinese-owned factories in these countries. 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
bangkok, exports, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-April 30

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Bangkok Ranks 6th/Rama II Road victim dies/Probe Into Building Collapse/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Moody’s revises Thailand’s outlook/US-Thai trade talks/Weigh risks of siding with US/Auto Industry Faces Output Slump/Casino giants eye Thailand/Thai Airport Authority to Develop Land/TOURISM: Revised Visa-Free Scheme/Thailand Sees Tourism Uptick/Phuket Airport soars/Thailand’s Visas Are Blooming/Thailand airport upgrades/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: May 2025 Festivals and Events/Overrated tourist spots/Wat Khudeedao in Ayutthaya/CLIMATE THAILAND: Tax changes for plug-in hybrid EVs/Study links chemicals in plastic to deaths/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

Bangkok Ranks 6th Among World’s Most Expat-Friendly Cities

Bangkok has secured its place as one of the world’s most expat-friendly cities, according to the latest survey by InterNations. The Thai capital claimed sixth position, showcasing its growing appeal to foreigners seeking new opportunities abroad.

While Malaga, Spain, topped the list, Bangkok’s high ranking underscores its charm, especially with expatriates who find making friends and integrating into the local culture relatively easy. Continued …

Rama II Road victim of falling concrete dies

The pickup truck driver who was hit by chunks of concrete from an old flyover on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon province succumbed to his serious injuries on Tuesday night.

His pickup truck was hit by two chunks of concrete measuring about 30 centimeters wide and 50 centimeters long on the outbound side of Rama II Road in Muang district yesterday morning. Continued …

Thailand Continues Probe Into Building Collapse

One month has passed since the State Audit Office (SAO) building under construction in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district collapsed following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, more than 1,300 kilometers away. The search for workers trapped beneath the rubble, investigations into the cause, and compensation efforts continue.

As of yesterday, the death toll stands at 66, with 28 people still missing and 9 injured, from a total of 103 people affected by the incident. Search teams found three major cases Monday night, including one complete body and two other significant findings, along with about five smaller cases of body parts. Continued …

  • Nudity Scandal on Thai Beach Fuels Calls for Tourist Behavior Crackdown – Continued …
  • Belgian Tourist Causes Chaos in Pattaya Convenience Store – Continued …
  • Hungarian Tourist Assaulted After Failing to Pay Bar and Entertainment Bills – Continued …
  • Polish couple deported for nudity on Koh Phangan – Continued …

Moody’s revises Thailand’s outlook to negative amid heightened economic and fiscal risks

Moody’s Ratings has affirmed Thailand’s Baa1 issuer and local currency senior unsecured ratings but revised the outlook from stable to negative, citing rising risks to the country’s economic and fiscal strength. The agency also affirmed Thailand’s P-2 foreign currency commercial paper rating.

The outlook change reflects Moody’s growing concern over Thailand’s slowing economic momentum, mounting fiscal pressure, and vulnerability to external shocks, particularly from shifting global trade dynamics. The recent imposition of U.S. tariffs and the uncertainty surrounding further trade restrictions after a 90-day pause add to Thailand’s economic headwinds, especially given the country’s deep integration into global and regional value chains Continued …

Prime Minister struggles to explain what is happening with US-Thai trade talks

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra struggled to answer reporters’ questions about the current status of U.S.–Thai trade talks yesterday. Indeed, Paetongtarn also refused to comment on a statement made by her father Thaksin Shinawatra on Saturday that the United States has raised security issues linked to the prosecution of an American national before the talks.

At one point yesterday she suggested that the matter was being handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the work of the Minister of Finance and Minister of Commerce is proceeding. Paetongtarn warned about rumors, insisting the U.S.–Thai relationship remained strong. Continued …

ASEAN urged to weigh risks of siding with US over China in tariff war

Southeast Asian countries risk isolation by China and stalled growth prospects if they align too closely with the United States in the trade war, a well-known Chinese political scientist has warned.

Zheng Yongnian, dean of the school of public policy at Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, said that supporting the re-industrialisation efforts of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was not the ultimate goal of the United States. Continued …

Thai Auto Industry Faces Output Slump Amid US Tariffs

Thailand’s automobile production is expected to dip below 1.4 million units this year, primarily due to the ramifications of the United States’ new tariff policies.

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has announced plans to adjust its targets, previously set at 1.5 million units, as it evaluates the impact on car exports. This decline follows last year’s shortfall where production reached only 1.46 million units against the same target. Continued …

Six global casino giants eye Thailand’s entertainment complex

Six global casino operators are ready to bid for Thailand’s entertainment complex project, led by GEG, Melco, and MGM, while Crown, Bally’s, and Peermont have withdrawn to focus on domestic markets. The entertainment complex project in Thailand has captured the attention of major global operators.

According to the latest report by Inside Asian Gaming (IAG), a leading media outlet covering the gaming and casino industry in Asia, 15 operators have expressed interest or are likely to participate in bidding for integrated resort licenses in Thailand. Continued …

Thai Airport Authority Launches Plan to Develop Land Around Six Airports

Airports of Thailand (AOT) has unveiled an initiative to develop prime real estate surrounding its six major airports across the country.

The “AOT Property Showcase: The Six Pillars of Opportunity”, held yesterday, aims to attract private sector investment to transform these areas into new economic hubs, encompassing a total of 2,512 rai (approximately 623 acres) with a potential investment value geared toward establishing Thailand as a leading aviation center in the region. Continued …

Revised Visa-Free Scheme – Is Thailand punishing everyone for a few violations?

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has recently ordered a revision of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme after incidents of visitors overstaying and working illegally. This revision aims to prevent abuses of the system, with the government planning to reassess the appropriate duration of stay for tourists and find a balance that still promotes tourism.

Currently, nationals from 93 countries and territories are granted visa exemptions for up to 60 days, with a possible extension of another 30 days. However, the scheme has faced criticism for being exploited by a small number of visitors who overstay their visa or engage in illegal work. These violations have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the visa exemption and its ability to meet the objective of fostering tourism. Continued …

Thailand Sees Tourism Uptick but Faces Competitive Challenges

Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported a modest increase in foreign tourist arrivals, registering 11.84 million visitors this year — a 0.12% rise compared to the same period last year. Among these, tourists from China made up a significant portion, numbering 1.6 million.

Despite recent challenges, including a substantial earthquake in Myanmar affecting Bangkok, Thailand remains optimistic, sticking to its forecast of 38 million foreign arrivals for the year. Continued …

Phuket Airport soars as Russians jet in while China jets off

Phuket Airport is flying high despite a sharp drop in Chinese tourists, with Russian and Turkish travelers stepping in to keep the island’s tourism industry cruising toward a record-breaking 18 million passengers this year.

Phuket International Airport is on course to welcome 18 million passengers in 2025, even as the number of Chinese arrivals nosedives, according to airport boss Monchai Tanode. Continued …

How Thailand’s Privilege and Long Term Residence Visas Are Blooming with New Opportunities

Industry experts have remarked that Thailand’s approach to long-term residency is poised to have a significant impact on the international travel, migration, and tourism sectors. As visa options tighten elsewhere, Thailand’s twin programs — the Privilege Residence and the Long Term Residence (LTR) schemes — are seen as models of innovation and flexibility in attracting affluent individuals, professionals, retirees, and remote workers.

Analysts say that Thailand’s welcoming, low-barrier entry strategies will influence global migration patterns, encouraging other Southeast Asian nations to emulate these frameworks to capture their share of high-net-worth expatriates. By doing so, Thailand has positioned itself as a top-tier destination for those seeking quality of life, low taxation, and effortless mobility. Continued …

Thailand to elevate tourism with airport upgrades

The Ministry of Transport has allocated funds to upgrade airports in three provinces in northeastern Thailand to boost secondary city tourism. Assistant Transport Minister Manoporn Charoensri announced efforts to transform Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, and Mukdahan into year-round tourist destinations.

The ministry is coordinating with commercial airlines to increase flights to Nakhon Phanom and Sakon Nakhon airports. Currently, Nakhon Phanom Airport offers 12 daily flights, with three parking bays, served by Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion Air, which will introduce four additional flights starting June 19. Sakon Nakhon Airport, with four parking bays, operates eight flights daily, served by Thai AirAsia and Nok Air. Continued …

May 2025 Festivals and Events in Thailand

Mark your calendars for a vibrant May 2025 in Thailand. Explore various events, including the Amazean Jungle Thailand by UTMB 2025 in Yala, the Hua Hin International Jazz Festival, and Pattaya Lighting 2025, transforming Pattaya Beach.

Enjoy jazz in Hat Yai, witness the Light Phenomenon in Phitsanulok, discover eco-friendly activities at the Amazing Krabi Green Guide Fest, and marvel at the KAWS: HOLIDAY THAILAND exhibition in Bangkok. Plus, experience kite festivals, Bun Bung Fai rocket festivals, and other unique cultural celebrations throughout the month. Continued …

Overrated tourist spots in Thailand you might want to skip

We all know Thailand is a go-to travel destination with its gorgeous beaches, stunning culture, and delectable food. But not every place lives up to the glitzy travel magazines and Instagram influencers’ posts.

Some destinations are just overcrowded and overpriced, making travelers disappointingly underwhelmed. Here, we take you to some of these overrated places in Thailand that aren’t worth the hype if you’re looking for authenticity. Continued …

Timeless beauty of Wat Khudeedao in Ayutthaya

Wat Khudeedao is an ancient monastery showcasing artistic brilliance and spiritual heritage of the early Ayutthaya period. Video … 

Tax changes for plug-in hybrid EVs approved

The Thai cabinet has approved tax changes expected to encourage purchases of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), effective from Jan. 1 next year.

The regulation revises tax conditions for PHEVs, making the following adjustments: establishing a separate tax rate for PHEVs, distinct from hybrid EVs; basing the tax calculation criteria solely on electric-powered driving range per charge; and eliminating fuel tank size as a factor in determining PHEV tax rates. Continued … 

Study links chemicals in plastic to cardiovascular deaths

Daily exposure to chemicals used for many plastic household items could be linked to more than 356,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease worldwide in 2018, according to a study published yesterday. The study focused on a phthalate chemical called DEHP, used to make food containers, medical equipment, and to soften plastic.

“DEHP exposure contributed to 356,238 deaths, or more than 13 percent of all global mortality from heart disease in 2018 among men and women ages 55 through 64,” a statement said. Continued … 

Temu and Shein Increase Prices Due to Trump Tariffs

Discount Chinese retail platform Temu is transferring nearly all of Donald Trump’s new import taxes onto U.S. consumers. This move significantly impacts pricing, as the platform adjusts to accommodate the additional costs associated with these tariffs, potentially affecting its competitiveness in the market. Continued …

Vietnam forecast to become second-largest economy in Southeast Asia by 2036

Vietnam is forecast to become the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia after Indonesia and the 20th-largest economy in the world by 2036, according to the World Economic League Table 2022 report by the Center for Economic and Business Research (CEBR). Continued …

Pakistan says India planning strike as tensions soar

Pakistan’s information minister said early today that Islamabad had “credible intelligence” that India was planning an imminent military strike and he vowed a “decisive response”, as worries of spiraling conflict grew over a deadly attack in Kashmir. Continued …

US threatens to quit Russia-Ukraine effort

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned yesterday that the United States would end mediation unless Russia and Ukraine come up with “concrete proposals,” as U.S. patience wanes on an early priority for President Donald Trump. Continued …

Thawing permafrost dots Siberia with rash of mounds

In the vast white expanse around Churapcha in eastern Siberia, the ever more rapid thaw of the permafrost is changing the landscape, cracking up houses and releasing greenhouse gases. A growing number of little mounds are appearing across the region of Yakutia in the Russian Far East. 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