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Wednesday’s News-July 19

July 19, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Hua Hin Profile: Dr. Mowae Apisuttipanya at Be Well Medical Center/
Anantasila’s Got Talent event set today/
The latest drone video of Hua Hin railway construction/
Bright Dawn Foundation holds kids sports day/
Charter court suspends Pita/
Pita faces Hamlet’s dilemma – To be or not to be?/
Pita renominated for PM, immediately opposed/
US expresses concern about the democratic ‘will of the people’/
Thai cave survivor reunites with British rescuer at high school graduation/
Warning issued against personal use of dengue testing kits/
Diesel retail price to be held at 32 baht per liter/
Over 1,000 drug suspects nabbed in major Thai southern provinces/
Economy: Recovery intact, tourism rebounding – central bank/Why foreigners are acquiring Thai property/HP to move laptop production to Thailand/
Tourism: Thailand Aims to Attract 25.8 Million Asian Tourists in 2024/Thailand announces 2024 strategic direction toward high-value, sustainable tourism/
Thailand Experience: Aspiring veterinarian volunteers at Thailand elephant sanctuary/Two herds of elephants forage for food in fruit orchards in Trat province/
International: Singapore passport replaces Japan’s as world’s most powerful/ADB cuts inflation forecast for developing Asia/Australian Man and Dog Rescued by Mexican Tuna Boat After Drifting 3 Months/
Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Dr. Mowae Apisuttipanya at Be Well Medical Center

By Felicitee Lawrie

Dr. Mowae Apisuttipanya, or simply Dr. Mo, as he is known to many, told me he feels blessed by god, but I think it is also accurate to say that his family, his community and his patients are blessed to have him in their lives.

This is a young, friendly, highly energetic man, still in his 30s, who not only commits fully to life, but has survived and flourished through sheer tenacity and resilience, and who has been prepared to make considerable personal sacrifice for those he holds dear. If this man is on your side, you are already a winner. Continued …

The latest drone video of Hua Hin railway construction

The latest video documenting the progress of the new train line in Hua Hin has been shared on the Mike’s Tropical Tech YouTube channel. Video

Bright Dawn Foundation holds kids sports day

The Bright Dawn Foundation recently held a sports day for the schools it supports in Hua Hin, including Nong Hieng, Wang Both, Nong Kra Toom, Huay Sai Ngam, and Nong Kra schools. There were about 700 students in attendance. The Bright Dawn Foundation provides healthcare and educational support to primary school children in or near Hua Hin. (HHT)

Charter court suspends Pita

The Constitutional Court this morning suspended Move Forward Party leader and prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat from duty as an elected member of the House of Representatives.

The court made the announcement after accepting for consideration a complaint involving Pita’s inherited shareholding in defunct media company iTV Plc. Continued …

Pita faces Hamlet’s dilemma – To be or not to be?

Most readers are probably familiar with the quote “To be or not to be” from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”. The same dilemma now faces Pita Limjaroenrat and his fandom: does he struggle on against a sea of troubles in a bid to become prime minister, or give up the battle and allow another to take his place?

Two months ago, Pita and his Move Forward Party scored an unexpected election victory over Pheu Thai, Thaksin Shinawatra’s brainchild that transformed into an effective weapon against the military junta that ousted him from power two decades ago. Continued …

Pita renominated for PM, immediately opposed

The eight-party alliance seeking to form Thailand’s next government proposed Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat as their candidate for prime minister as the joint sitting of parliament began today.

It is his second attempt to win the endorsement of the bicameral legislature after losing in his first attempt last Thursday. Continued …

US expresses concern about the democratic ‘will of the people’

As Thailand faces the second round of decisive votes to elect the kingdom’s next prime minister, there is growing concern about a Constitutional Court petition that could see the Move Forward Party dissolved. This was referenced on Monday night by the U.S. State Department in Washington, DC, where a spokesman said the United States was concerned about the situation in the kingdom and respect for the democratic will of the people.

The U.S. State Department in Washington has gone on record expressing concern at the situation in the aftermath of the May 14 general election in Thailand. A top spokesman for the State Department, Matthew Miller referred to the pending legal cases being reviewed since last Wednesday by the Constitutional Court. Continued …

Thai cave survivor reunites with British rescuer at high school graduation

Five years ago, Adul Samon was rescued from a cave along with his 11 Thai soccer teammates and their coach. Now, he’s graduating from an American high school – and has reunited with one of his rescuers.

(The link includes a video news report you might find interesting.)

On June 23, 2018, the Wild Boars soccer team set out for an excursion to the Tham Luang Nang Non cave in northern Thailand after a practice session. Only expecting to be gone for an hour, they didn’t pack food or water. Continued …

Warning issued against personal use of dengue testing kits

In an urgent public appeal, Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cautioned against personal use of dengue testing kits. These kits, while acknowledged for their efficacy, have been approved for use by healthcare professionals only due to the complexity of dengue detection.

Lertchai Lertwut, the deputy secretary-general of the FDA, underscored that accurate diagnosis of dengue fever demands more than just the isolation of the virus. It requires a comprehensive medical examination and clinical assessment conducted by trained medical doctors. Continued …

Diesel retail price to be held at 32 baht per liter

The Office of the Oil Fuel Fund on Tuesday resolved to use the fund’s mechanism to maintain the current diesel retail price at 32 baht per liter when the diesel excise cut expires on Thursday.

The office director, Wisak Watanasap, said the Fuel Fund executive committee on Tuesday approved the use of the fund mechanism to maintain the diesel price at the current rate. Continued …

Over 1,000 drug suspects nabbed in major Thai southern provinces

In a sweeping operation against Thai drug crime, spanning seven southern provinces, over a thousand suspects have been put behind bars. The large-scale sting, dubbed “Sayob Andaman (Defeating Andaman) 7/66,” was conducted by the team of Provincial Police Division 8.

The detailed brief pertaining to the Thai drug crime operation was presented at a press conference in Phuket yesterday by the special adviser to the Royal Thai Police, Sompong Chingduang. Continued …

Recovery intact, tourism rebounding – central bank

Thailand’s economic recovery is intact, with growth of 2.9% likely in the first half of this year and 4.2% in the second half, Bank of Thailand (BoT) Gov. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput said today.

The BoT would continue to gradually normalize interest rates to help the economy grow at its potential and keep inflation in check, the central bank chief told a media briefing. Continued …

Why foreigners are acquiring Thai property

Thailand maintains its appeal as an attractive destination for foreign property buyers, especially for those seeking a second home, despite specific limitations on property ownership.

As the situation gradually stabilizes and returns to normalcy post-Covid, the allure of Thailand’s real estate market is growing stronger. Continued …

HP to move laptop production to Thailand

According to a Nikkei Asia report published on July 18, HP is working with suppliers to shift the production of millions of consumer and commercial laptops to Thailand and Mexico this year to diversify its personal computer supply chain beyond China.

According to Nikkei Asia, sources briefed on the matter told the publication that HP, the world’s No.2 PC maker by shipments, is planning to shift some commercial notebook computer production to Mexico, while a portion of its consumer laptop production will go to Thailand. Continued …

Thailand Aims to Attract 25.8 Million Asian Tourists in 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is planning to attract 25.8 million tourists from short-haul countries next year, 2024. TAT Deputy Gov. Thanet Petchsuwan said TAT is targeting tourists from the Asian and South Pacific markets aka the short-haul markets.

The goal of attracting 25.8 million tourists from these markets was set during the recent meeting of TAT. This number represents 74% of the overall next year target of 35 million international tourists. The objective is to generate revenue of 1.2 trillion baht, which accounts for 63% of the total foreign market revenue target of 1.92 trillion baht. Continued …

Thailand announces 2024 strategic direction toward high-value, sustainable tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced the 2024 strategic direction that will continue to elevate the tourism supply and sustainable standards, as well as leverage Thai soft powers to promote and develop high-value and sustainable tourism in Thailand.

Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT governor, said, “2024 will be the year of accelerating resilience, transforming Thailand’s tourism into high-value and sustainable tourism that emphasizes elevating and moving forward to a better tourism ecosystem. Continued …

Aspiring veterinarian volunteers at Thailand elephant sanctuary

Surrounded by scalpels and bandages, aspiring medical students work hard to care for their ailing patients. Taking vitals, drawing blood and measuring heartbeats, they’re dedicated to their future professions. But not every doctor has to measure a patient’s trunk length.

As a Loop Abroad Veterinary Service participant, biology senior Brycelyn Ramirez spent two weeks in Thailand helping animals, discovering Thai culture and gaining hands-on veterinary experience. Ramirez and her team volunteered at the Elephant Nature Park in northern Thailand, working directly with the giant animals and learning about large-scale animal rescue and conservation efforts. The Elephant Nature Park houses over 100 elephants rescued from trekking, logging or forced breeding programs. Continued …

Two herds of elephants forage for food in fruit orchards in Trat province

Wildlife officials in Thailand’s eastern province of Trat have been trying to push two herds of wild elephants back into the forest, after they emerged to search for food on farmland and in fruit orchards on Monday night.

According to officials at Khlong Kaew Waterfall National Park in Bo Rai district, a herd of about 40 elephants, including several calves, are now foraging for food in cultivated areas along the road from Ban Nong Mai Hom to Ban Nong Bon. Continued …

Singapore passport replaces Japan’s as world’s most powerful

Singapore has replaced Japan as the country with the world’s most powerful passport, according to the latest ranking published by Henley Passport Index on Tuesday. It allows visa-free entry to 192 out of 227 global destinations. Continued …

ADB cuts inflation forecast for developing Asia

The Asian Development Bank cut its inflation forecast for developing Asia today, as food and fuel prices eased, supply chain disruptions waned and interest rate hikes started to bite. Continued …

Australian Man and Dog Rescued by Mexican Tuna Boat After Drifting 3 Months

An Australian sailor who had been adrift at sea with his dog for three months has been rescued by a Mexican tuna boat in international waters, the fishing vessel’s owner said Monday. Continued …

UPDATED! Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

UPDATED! Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

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

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-April 7

April 7, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Bangkok hottest in Thailand on Thursday as temperature soars past 50C/
Songkran activities at Bluport mall/
Be Well Clinic to move/
Dispute resolution center opened in Hua Hin/
Six people caught allegedly trapping macaques at temple in Phetchaburi/
Chiang Mai issues urgent work-from-home warning as PM2.5 soars even higher/
Shivering fox cubs rescued from forest fire in Lampang/
PM2.5 in Mae Hong Son tourist town at hazardous levels/
Police launch home-minding service for Songkran/
Thailand chips away at US trade deficit with 62% increase in chip market exports/
With plastic-eating machines, Thai communities turn a profit fighting pollution/
Thousands flee into Thailand amid renewed Myanmar fighting/
Marijuana Gold Rush: Weed conundrum polarizes society ahead of election/How medical cannabis is changing the lives of Thai patients/Thailand’s promised cannabis bonanza disappoints as politicians trade blame/Thailand’s First Cannabis Greenhouse: Step Forward for Medical Cannabis Industry/Why ASEAN countries should not look at Thailand for legalizing medical cannabis/
Tourism: 5 Thai beaches appear on list of top 100 beaches in the world/High flight costs said due to strong and swift recovery in tourism/What the big oil production cuts mean to airfares/Five-point plan to bring down airfares/Thailand to accept electronic VOA applications for 17 countries/Thai medical tourism market to recover to pre-Covid level in 2023/Pattaya Police Launch City-Wide Search Targeting Overstaying Foreigners/Phuket Close to a Drought, Phuket Officials Urge Residents to Save Water/Pattaya, Navy Helping Koh Larn Cope With Water Shortage/
Thailand Experience: Snorkeling in Thailand: A Guide to Koh Phi Phi, Krabi & Koh Lanta/Phuket vs Bali: how to choose between the two divine islands/Rain of fire at Buddhist temple in Nan/
Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Bangkok hottest in Thailand on Thursday as temperature soars past 50C

Bangkok will be the hottest area of the country on Thursday, with a heat index of 50.2 degrees Centigrade (122F), according to the Thai Meteorological Department.

The capital’s southeastern Bang Na district topped the forecasted five hottest places in the country as hot season gripped Thailand. Second-hottest was Chonburi’s Laem Chabang at 49.4C, followed by Phuket (47.9C), Si Sa Ket (41.5C) and Phetchabun (40.6C). Continued …

Songkran activities at Bluport mall

Be Well Clinic to move

The management team at Hua’s Be Well Medical Center has announced big changes for their Black Mountain satellite clinic, with a move to purpose-built premises at a location on the main road, close to the water park near the Black Mountain Golf Course entrance road.

Operations at the current location, established in November 2021, will cease from today. The new premises are expected to be open in the first quarter of 2024 as part of a larger healthcare and restaurant project. Continued …

Dispute resolution center opened in Hua Hin

A Public Dispute Resolution Center at Hua Hin police station will be responsible for mediating disputes that are classified as “petty offenses.”

These include verbal disputes, minor physical assaults, and other non-criminal issues that do not require legal intervention.

Six people caught allegedly trapping macaques at temple in Phetchaburi

Police arrested six suspects and seized three pickup trucks as they were trying to trap macaque monkeys at a temple in Phetchaburi province yesterday.

Police also found one monkey, traps and 40 blue plastic bags used to contain the animals after their capture. Continued …

Chiang Mai issues urgent work-from-home warning as PM2.5 soars even higher

Government agencies in Chiang Mai were ordered to let staff work from home on Friday as levels of PM2.5 smog surged to almost unprecedented levels.

In an urgent announcement issued on Friday morning, Chiang Mai Gov. Nirat Pongsitthavorn said officials who can work from home or online without impacting public services should be allowed to do so. Continued …

Shivering fox cubs rescued from forest fire in Lampang

Three fox cubs were rescued from a blazing forest in Chae Son National Park in Chae Hom district of Lampang province on Thursday. Officials found the cubs trembling with fear while the fire was being extinguished, the national park chief, Tewan Chanprom, said. (The Nation)

PM2.5 in Mae Hong Son tourist town at hazardous levels

The tourist town of Pai in Mae Hong Son province is choking with PM2.5 ultra-fine dust at a hazardous 398 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) of air on Thursday morning following weeks of forest fires and burning of farmland, the authorities said.

The Mae Hong Son operation center for tackling forest fires and smog added that the PM2.5 level in Muang district was measured at 196 µg/m3 and at 132 µg/m3 in Mae Saring district. Continued …

Police launch home-minding service for Songkran

Householders have been invited to “Leave your home with the police” during the long Songkran holiday.

Thousands of Thais are expected to start heading home from April 12 to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year on April 13. The public holiday for the three-day festival runs until April 18 this year.

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) today announced its scheme aimed at ensuring no one breaks into people’s homes while they enjoy the long holiday break. Continued …

Thailand chips away at US trade deficit with 62% increase in chip market exports

The United States has been experiencing a growing deficit in its chipmaking trade with Asia, but the good news is that Thailand is helping to chip away at that gap.

According to U.S. Census data, U.S. imports of chips grew 17% from last year to US$4.86 billion in February, with Asia accounting for 83% of that total. Continued …

With plastic-eating machines, Thai communities turn a profit fighting pollution

I found the workshop down a narrow soi in Bangkok’s old town. Several large sacks of plastic bottle caps, carefully sorted by color, sat by the entrance. Machines filled the rest of the shed.

Small and hand-operated, the machinery was there to be fed. I pressed a green button, and hungry teeth rotated rapidly at the bottom of a clear container, rattling like an aggressive kitchen blender.

I scooped handfuls of orange and red caps into the shredder. Once inside, they danced about like popcorn, becoming ever smaller as the teeth chomped them into tiny, thin flakes. The goal was to turn the caps into something new, ensuring they would no longer head to a landfill or, worse, into the ocean. Continued …

Thousands flee into Thailand amid renewed Myanmar fighting

Thousands of people have fled across the border to Thailand amid fierce fighting between Myanmar’s armed rebel groups and the military, according to Thai officials.

Myanmar was plunged into turmoil when the military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, leading to mass protests and an armed uprising. Continued …

Weed conundrum polarizes society ahead of election

Despite the different stances political parties take when it comes to the subject of cannabis – with most objecting to its recreational use – and another potential shift in the plant’s legal status, many sellers remain unconcerned.

As the May 14 general election draws near, parties have begun publishing their policies in a bid to woo voters. The legal status of cannabis, frequently described as being in an unregulated “vacuum”, is a subject of significant public concern, however, and political parties seem keen to capitalize on this. Continued …

How medical cannabis is changing the lives of Thai patients

Before getting into the story of how medical cannabis is changing the lives of Thai patients, let’s first talk about the medical products that can be made from cannabis.

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has been increasingly recognized for its potential therapeutic properties. The following are some of the key medical products derived from cannabis. Continued …

Thailand’s promised cannabis bonanza disappoints as politicians trade blame

Thailand’s decriminalization of cannabis has delighted its fans, alarmed some health experts and has increasingly disappointed farmers who have been undercut by illegal imports, sending a promise of a new bonanza crop up in smoke.

Marijuana has also become an election football, with the opposition criticizing the ruling pro-military coalition in the run-up to May 14 polls for rushing through decriminalization last year to what they say is the detriment of society, youngsters in particular. Continued …

Thailand’s First Cannabis Greenhouse: Step Forward for Medical Cannabis Industry

The medical cannabis industry is a rapidly growing sector of the healthcare industry. It has seen tremendous growth in the last two decades, as more and more countries have passed laws legalizing the use of the same for certain medical conditions. This has opened up new opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors who are looking to capitalize on the burgeoning market.

This medical sector offers many financial opportunities, including retail dispensaries, cultivation, processing, and delivery services. There are also opportunities to provide consulting services to help patients and businesses navigate the complex legal and regulatory environment surrounding the industry. Continued …

Why ASEAN countries should not look at Thailand for legalizing medical cannabis

Cannabis use was decriminalized in Thailand since June 2022. Yet, almost a year on, the country still lacks a comprehensive legal framework to regulate the production, distribution and consumption of cannabis products.

Amid the legal ambiguity, a fast-growing cannabis industry has emerged with significant implications for both Thailand and the broader Southeast Asia region, home to some of the world’s toughest drug laws. Continued …

5 Thai beaches appear on list of top 100 beaches in the world

The prime minister has expressed satisfaction with five of Thailand’s beaches being included among the Top 100 Beaches on Earth ranking published by the worldbeachguide.com website.

Koh Kradan in Trang province came in at number one on the list of the world’s best 100 beaches. Railay Beach in Krabi was placed on the ninth spot on the list, with Freedom Beach in Phuket ranked 18th and Laem Had Beach on Phang-nga’s Koh Yao Yai placing at the 21st spot. Ao Tanote on Surat Thani’s Koh Tao was ranked 44th. Continued …

High flight costs said due to strong and swift recovery in tourism

The Transport Ministry is pointing to the stronger-than-expected recovery in tourism for the high cost of flights, saying the surging number of international and domestic tourists created a large gap between supply and demand.

Thailand has attracted an average of 140,000 visitors a day since its reopened its borders in November 2021, Acting Transport Minister Atirat Ratanasate said on Thursday. Continued …

What the big oil production cuts mean to airfares

The recent move by the big oil majors to cut production by over one million barrels a day as a “precautionary” measure to stabilize the oil market will have a domino effect on airfares, according to industry experts.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) yesterday announced plans to lower oil production by 1.16 million barrels per day, starting next month, which has already led to a surge in oil prices. This reduction in oil production will lead to a decrease in the supply of oil, driving up the price of oil, which will ultimately impact the cost of airline operations. Continued …

Five-point plan to bring down airfares

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has ordered the Transport Ministry to proceed with a five-point plan to tackle the soaring prices of air tickets in the short and long term.

Deputy Transport Minister Atirat Ratanasate said the ministry has informed the prime minister of the measures taken and those in the pipeline to address the substantial hikes, which is due to the surge in demand after the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

Thailand to accept electronic VOA applications for 17 countries

BLS International Services on Wednesday said it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Thailand to accept electronic visa-on-arrival (EVOA) applications for 17 countries. ”This convergence of forces is expected to propel Thailand’s tourism inflow steadily, with estimated 75,000-plus applications expected for the upcoming season,” the city-based company said.

The company collaborates with more than 46 client governments, including diplomatic missions, embassies and consulates, as well as employs technology and processes that ensure data security. Continued …

Thai medical tourism market to recover to pre-Covid level in 2023

According to SCB EIC estimates, the Thai medical tourism market in 2023 is likely to recover to a higher level than in 2019 and will be valued at 2 billion baht.

The future growth of the Thai medical tourism market is fueled by a number of health megatrends. These include the entrance of the silver economy in 2021, which is driving demand for medical care and innovation in anti-aging technology. Continued …

Pattaya Police Launch City-Wide Search Targeting Overstaying Foreigners

Pattaya Police and immigration launched a city-wide search Wednesday targeting foreigners on overstay or who might have been involved in illegal activities.

About 50 law enforcement officers swept across Pattaya City at 10:30pm to deter illegal activities. Continued …

Phuket Close to a Drought, Phuket Officials Urge Residents to Save Water

Officials are urging Phuket residents to save water, as water resources are limited and Phuket could be close to a drought.

Phuket Provincial Administrative Chief officer Somprat Prabsongkram said Phuket has three major reservoirs, which are the Khlong Katha Reservoir in Chalong, Bang Ward Reservoir, and the Bang Neow Dam Reservoir. These three reservoirs will only have enough water resources to last until July without rain. Residents have to save water. Continued …

Pattaya, Navy Helping Koh Larn Cope With Water Shortage

With Koh Larn off Pattaya being among the islands facing water shortage, this seaside city’s authorities, together with the navy, are now helping to partly alleviate the crisis by transporting badly needed fresh water.

Pattaya City Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai said this popular tourist destination has two sources of fresh water, with one being what is produced by East Water Co.’s desalination plant and the other ground water, plus what the local residents have stored during the rainy season. Continued …

Snorkeling in Thailand: A Guide to Koh Phi Phi, Krabi & Koh Lanta

Thailand is a beautiful country known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. One of the must-do activities when in Thailand is snorkeling, and with its rich underwater world, there are plenty of places to do so.

We will focus on three popular destinations for snorkeling in Thailand – Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, and Koh Lanta – and provide recommendations on where to stay and eat, as well as tips to make the most of your snorkeling trip. Continued …

Phuket vs Bali: how to choose between the two divine islands

Anyone planning a trip to Southeast Asia confronts an embarrassment of riches. This magical part of the world has enough beaches, sunset spots, temples and fiery food to fill several lifetimes of travel. Yet, since we only have one, tough choices lie in store. Enter a pair of seasoned writers to make the case for their pick of two of the region’s most beloved hubs, Phuket and Bali.

For anyone who loves Phuket – as I do – it’s a magical island that instantly defies its stereotypes without making any fuss. Continued …

Rain of fire at Buddhist temple in Nan

Water flowed and sparks flew as Nan locals performed their traditional Ched Peng ceremony at Wat Tha Lo in Phu Phiang district on Wednesday. Residents flocked to the temple to pour water on its Phra That Tha Lo stupa and offer alms to monks. As night fell, Bok Fai Dok rockets and Fai Phaniang fireworks bathed the sky and the temple beneath in fiery colors. Locals also competed to produce the most spectacular aerial show, launching 41 Bang Fai rockets. The event is held annually in the northern province for locals to celebrate and reaffirm their Buddhist faith. (The Nation)

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

90-day online reporting

bangkok, hua hin, marijuana, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-Jan 14

January 14, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Today is Chilrden’s Day in Thailand/
Bangkok urologist at Be Well Clinic Jan 18/
Chiva-Som Hua Hin Appoints Patience Sangwa as Resident Naturopath/
Will Thailand’s new residency visa achieve results?/
Thai lawmakers endorse study on legalizing casinos/
Nearly 9,000 Holiday Traffic Offenders To Be Put on Probation/
Thai beauty queen wows with gown made from pull tabs/
Pension for elderly raise proposed to 3,000 baht a month/
Thailand to nominate King Bhumibol as a UNESCO World Eminent Personality/
Bangkok taxi fares increase for first time in 8 years/
Electric tuk-tuk innovator MuvMi to triple fleet as demand soars/
Thai power generator to adopt green fuels, technologies/
From Ancient to Modern: The Cannabis Tale of Thailand/
US weed giant to open Bangkok store/
Tourism: PKK to focus on places of worship, sacred religious sites in new tourism campaign/Will Thailand’s 300-baht tourist fee apply to expats?/TAT working on increasing flights, longer visa on arrival/
Thailand Experience: Exploring the Chinese New Year/Sustainability In Action: The Karen People’s Farming System/
International: Ant farms turn from science project to new agri-business in Cambodia/Steven Spielberg wins big as Golden Globes make comeback/Promised tanks a logistical challenge for Ukraine/
Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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Today is Chilrden’s Day in Thailand’s

Today is Thai Children’s Day. Bumper crowds are expected after the popular event, which sees state organizations fling open their doors to parents and their kids, was canceled for the last two years in the pandemic.

A police spokeswoman said they were concerned about parents losing their children in the big crowds and had five recommendations for the public, including advice on “sharenting”. Continued …

Bangkok urologist at Be Well Clinic Jan 18

Hua Hin’s Be Well Clinic will host visiting urologist Dr. Isares Saisorn from Samitivej Hospital Bangkok on Wednesday, Jan. 18.

He will be scheduling appointments for those suffering from changes in bladder functionality or urine, and lower abdomen or pain in the groin region.

To make an appointment: Tel. 02 111 6644; email – info@bewell.co.th, web.

Chiva-Som Hua Hin Appoints Patience Sangwa as Resident Naturopath

Chiva-Som Hua Hin has launched an online naturopathic and nutritional consultation program specifically for children.

The program, which will be headed by naturopathic doctor Patience Sangwa, has been designed to provide parents much-needed information on anything that concerns their child, such as nutrition and sleep, as well as mental and physical development.

Patience, a board-certified naturopath with the Allied Health Professionals Council of South Africa, completed dual bachelor’s degrees in complementary ehalth sciences and naturopathy at the University of the Western Cape before undergoing clinical training in Cape Town.

As resident naturopath at Chiva-Som, Patience will investigate the hindrances to the well-being of guests and enable them to get closer to their health goals by looking at nutrition, mental health, sleep practices, physical activity and lifestyle habits. – travelnewsasia.com

Will Thailand’s new residency visa achieve results?

On Sept. 1, 2022, Thailand introduced a new long-term resident (LTR) visa program. The program offers a 10-year renewable visa and a range of tax and non-tax benefits to four distinct categories of foreigners. These are wealthy global citizens, wealthy pensioners, work-from-Thailand professionals and highly skilled professionals.

Thailand’s Board of Investment contends the LTR program will attract wealthy, “high-potential” and talented individuals, who, in turn, will stimulate economic growth, through innovation, investment and domestic spending. Thailand’s government has set a target of attracting one million foreigners into the program over the next five years.

This target seems overly optimistic. The LTR visa enters a highly competitive global industry of long-term and second-home visa programs because of its focus on attracting wealthy global citizens. But it is difficult to envisage why applicants would invest at least US$500,000 in Thai property or low-yield Thai government bonds to be approved for this visa if they are expected to hold US$1 million in assets. Continued …

Thai lawmakers endorse study on legalizing casinos

Thailand’s lower House endorsed a feasibility study on legalizing casinos on Thursday, as the country seeks tax and tourism revenue to boost economic recovery from Covid-19.

The study report was produced by a special House committee and will now be sent to Cabinet for consideration.

The committee plans to ask the government to legalize casinos in five regions, aiming to increase state income from tax while suppressing illegal gambling dens. The five locations targeted for legal casinos are: Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Phang-nga or Krabi. Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani or Khon Kaen. and Greater Bangkok. Continued …

Nearly 9,000 Holiday Traffic Offenders To Be Put on Probation

Thai police announced that they will put traffic offenders in 8,923 cases caught nationwide during the New Year period on probation, said Weerakit Hanpariphan, director-general of the Probation Department.

Weerakit revealed that the majority of the offenses recorded during the Seven Days of Danger road safety campaign from Dec. 29 to Jan. 4 were related to drink driving, which accounted for over 8,567 cases or 96%, followed by driving under the influence of illegal drugs, with 335 cases or 3.8%, and reckless driving with 21 cases or 0.2%.

The three provinces with the highest number of road accidents were Roi Et with 469 cases, Samut Prakan with 388 cases, and Nonthaburi with 364 cases. Continued …

Thai beauty queen wows with gown made from pull tabs

Anna Sueangam-iam, who won the Miss Universe Thailand crown last year, was a sparkling sensation as she sashayed out on stage in a dress fashioned from pull tabs. The dress for the 2022 Miss Universe preliminary round was created as a tribute to her parents, who worked as waste collectors, and to showcase her eco-activism. The “Hidden Precious Diamond Dress”, fashioned from pull tabs and embellished with Swarovski diamonds, was created by Thai designer Arif Jehwang. The preliminary and national attire rounds for the 71st Miss Universe 2022 were held on Thursday in New Orleans. The 2022 Miss Universe will be crowned on Sunday at 8am Thailand time. (The Nation)

Pension for elderly raise proposed to 3,000 baht a month

Senior citizens should receive a universal pension of 3,000 baht per month to ease their financial burden, activists and academics said at a forum.

Four Regions Slum Network representative Nuken Inthachan was one of those calling for the government to revise its old age monthly allowance as a universal pension and lift it to 3,000 baht a month.

“The existing 600 to 1,000 baht subsidy for senior citizens is barely enough, even with them finding supplementary income themselves,” he said. Continued …

Thailand to nominate King Bhumibol as a UNESCO World Eminent Personality

Thailand’s Ministry of Education is preparing to propose His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, the ninth monarch of Thailand, to the list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s world eminent personalities, coinciding with the centennial anniversary of King Bhumibol’s birth in 2027.

The nomination aims at honoring his countless achievements, which impacted not only the country but also the world community.

A committee will be set up in charge of collecting all relevant information regarding King Bhumibol’s royal projects, in accordance with the UNESCO criteria, before submitting it to UNESCO by Dec. 1, 2024. Continued …

Bangkok taxi fares increase for first time in 8 years

A taxi fare rise for the first time in eight years took effect for taxis in Bangkok on Friday as Prime Minister Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha ordered relevant agencies to assess its impact on people.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said the prime minister was concerned about impacts on the general public, so he instructed many agencies, such as the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, to monitor the impacts on people and the economy in general. and to propose proper economic measures to alleviate those impacts, particularly during the transition period.

At the same time, he realized the hardship of taxi drivers, affected by the rising cost of living and energy prices. It is the first fare rise in eight years to help them, the spokesman said. Continued …

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Electric tuk-tuk innovator MuvMi to triple fleet as demand soars

Thai startup MuvMi will nearly triple the number of its electric tuk-tuks this year from 350 to 1,000 due to rising demand for rides in vehicles, said the CEO of its parent company, Urban Mobility Tech.

Krisada Kritayakirana, who is also the co-founder of Urban Mobility Tech, told a press conference on Friday that demand for rides in electric tuk-tuks is growing in tandem with the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) in Thailand.

“Our initial goal is to provide environmentally friendly vehicles for city dwellers who struggle to find public transportation after departing skytrain, subway, and bus stations,” he said. Continued …

Thai power generator to adopt green fuels, technologies

Electricity Generating Plc (Egco), a power generation arm of state-run Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, is planning to adopt green fuels and technologies to better manage electricity generation, part of efforts to achieve a carbon neutrality goal by 2050.

The company signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Friday with JERA Asia Pte, a subsidiary of JERA Inc. – Japan’s largest power company – to jointly conduct a study on ways to decarbonize Egco’s businesses by using hydrogen and ammonia as fuels, as well as adopting carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technology. Continued …

From Ancient to Modern: The Cannabis Tale of Thailand

On June 9, 2022, Thailand became the first country in Asia — and only the third in the world, after Canada and Uruguay — to decriminalize cannabis nationwide. But did you know that cannabis was not always illegal in Thailand? In this video, we give you a brief history of cannabis in Thailand, as well as experts giving us more information on the present situation of cannabis in Thailand. Continued …

US weed giant to open Bangkok store

After months of delay, one of America’s most popular weed brands is landing in Bangkok later this month.

Jan. 21 has been set for the opening date of Cookies in Bangkok’s Soi Ruamrudee, about four months after it was originally expected.

The San Francisco-based weed giant even invited a Buddhist monk to come over and bless the new storefront, where visitors will be able to buy cannabis alongside clothing and fashion accessories such as smell-proof backpacks, sweaters, and baseball caps. Continued …

PKK to focus on places of worship, sacred religious sites in new tourism campaign

Some of Prachuap Khiri Khan’s most sacred buildings and religious sites are to take center stage in the province’s latest tourism campaign, officials have announced.

The new campaign will offer tourists information on places of worship that they can visit and pay their respects to, while at the same time experiencing local cultures and traditions in each district of Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The year-long promotional campaign will shine a light on the province’s most spectacular and significant religious sites and centuries-old temples, as well as some little unknown cultural attractions and far-flung places of worship. Continued …

Will Thailand’s 300-baht tourist fee apply to expats?

After years of false starts, Thailand is about to start slapping fees on every arriving tourist, a measure being adopted in the post-pandemic era in countries ranging from Brussels and Oslo to the Maldives.

While various fees have been considered and rejected over the years, officials began beating the drum last year for a THB300 fee that would offset tourist healthcare costs and be reinvested in tourism development. That’s now set to take effect in June.

There are still five months for them to reconsider: Arrival fees for travelers have been proposed numerous times in years past, only to be abandoned or shelved under criticism, such as a THB360 “tourism maintenance fee” proposed by the tourism authority in 2016. Indeed, the fee was supposed to happen nine months ago. Continued …

TAT working on increasing flights, longer visa on arrival

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) aims to increase the number of flights in a bid to boost tourism during the high season.

“The flight load capacity must reach 90 percent during the high season this year,” TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Friday. The high season in Thailand is from November to March.

He added that Chinese authorities have requested information from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand to boost the number of flights to 2019 levels, before the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

Exploring the Chinese New Year traditions in Thailand

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, has been celebrated in Thailand for centuries by the country’s Chinese-Thai community. The festival typically takes place in January or February and is a time for families to come together, clean their homes, and decorate with red lanterns and other symbols of good luck.

Traditional activities include lion and dragon dances, fireworks, and the giving of red envelopes filled with money to children. Chinese New Year is also an important time for businesses, as it is considered a peak shopping season.

In recent years, Chinese New Year celebrations have become more popular among the general population in Thailand and are now celebrated by people of all backgrounds. Continued …

3 Thailand locations for the eco-conscious travelers to explore this year

Sustainable tourism is predicted to be the biggest trend for the global travel industry in 2023. This is due to the environmental and social pressures calling for responsible living in communities worldwide.

According to the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand London office, Sadudee Sangnil, Thailand is fully on board with the global shift toward more responsible travel practices.

“Eco-tourism reaps multiple benefits for travelers, local communities and the environment. It also provides countries like Thailand with the opportunity to build its economy in a way that will preserve its natural resources, landscapes, wildlife and people for future generations to experience and enjoy,” said Sangnil. Continued …

Sustainability In Action: The Karen People’s Farming System

For 2,000 years, the Karen people in northern Thailand have practiced a form of long-term rotational farming that allows the land to recover, then thrive, ready for the next harvest.

This practice lies at the heart of the way the people of the Hin Lad Nai community in the hills of Chiang-rai province manage natural resources. The philosophy of sustainable management is captured in a poem that says, “Auf hti K’tau hti, auf kauj k’ tauz kauj, auf deif k’ tauz lei, auf nyaf k’ tauz kwiv” (use water care of rivers, use land care of forest, use/eat frogs care of cliff and use/eat fishes care of water sources).

The system of fallow, or “rational farming cycle”, allows an area to regenerate for seven to 10 years, then the farmers cultivate it again for one year. After harvesting, they let the field become fallow again for another seven to 10 years while it regenerates. Continued …

Ant farms turn from science project to new agri-business in Cambodia

Forest-dwelling weaver ants are a common species in Cambodia and are often employed as a tasty addition to many traditional dishes like some sour soups, or prahok. They are usually collected wild from the countryside, but one enterprising woman has discovered how to raise them commercially. Continued …

Steven Spielberg wins big as Golden Globes make comeback

Steven Spielberg claimed top honors, including best drama, at the Golden Globes on Tuesday for his deeply personal film “The Fabelmans,” as Hollywood’s A-list stars flocked to the first major awards show of the year despite a series of scandals swirling around its organizers. Continued …

Promised tanks a logistical challenge for Ukraine

The imminent arrival in Ukraine of Western-made light tanks and armored vehicles, as well as possibly heavy tanks, means Kyiv will need to quickly train up troops to use and maintain the sometimes complex equipment, analysts say. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets