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Saturday’s news-Nov 4

Today’s news: The secret of Thailand’s allure/British Chamber to meet/New Swedish Ambassador to Thailand/Thai Hostages Reported Safe/Elephant attack in Buriram/Wild ‘elephant migration’ in Khon Kaen/Urban monkey overpopulation problem/Rail plan sped up/Treating drugs users less harshly/Airbus flies helicopters in Thailand/Economy in troubled waters/Warning over Thailand’s finances/How rich is ‘rich’?/Thailand’s land bridge project/Digital Valley project progresses/Cambodia, Thjailand in fossil fuel future/Pub opening hours until 4am/Tourism Revenue Target Revised/Flights to Increase to 1.3M next year/Tourist Scams In Thailand/Norse Atlantic Airways launches Bangkok flights/One man, many wives fades/The Country’s Best Street Eats/Chiang Rai, Suphanburi UNESCO recognition/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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The secret of Thailand’s allure for retired ex-pats?

Sure, it’s the beautiful natural scenery, unique culture, and kind-hearted people that captivate numerous foreigners to choose Thailand as their retirement destination. However, experts say there is one more thing that helps these international residents make the crucial — and life-changing — decision.

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director of the Office of Trade Policy and Strategy (OTPS), revealed that, in addition to its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the friendly and hospitable nature of the Thai people, the relatively lower cost of living in Thailand is a significant attraction for foreigners pondering their retirement options. Continued …

British Chamber to meet at Holiday Inn Nov 10

The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) will hold its “Connecting Western Seaboard” event Friday, Nov. 10, from 6-9pm at Holiday Inn Vana Nava. There is a Bt950 entrance fee for BCCT/participating chamber members and Bt1,900 for non-members. Price includes food and free flow of beer and wine. Email events@bccthai.com for booking assistance or GO HERE.

Meet the New Swedish Ambassador to Thailand

H.E. Anna Hammargren, was named the new Swedish ambassador to Thailand, on Oct. 23. Born in Solna, a prime settlement and municipality located just north of Stockholm, she spent all her childhood in nearby Sollentuna, also north of the capital.

In Sollentuna, Hammargren went to school and after finishing high school, she took a break from studying and decided – like many young Swedish women do – to spread her wings and go abroad. Her choice fell on Dallas/Fort-Worth in Texas where she had relatives, and there she took up a job as au pair. Continued …

20 Thai Hostages Reported Safe

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said todayyesterday that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had called to inform that 20 out of 23 Thais held hostage by Hamas fighters are safe, while a search is underway for two to three other captives.

Srettha said Anwar had told him that 12 hostages in one group and eight others in another group were being transported to the same place. Continued …

Elephant attack in Thailand’s Buriram province claims life

A fatal elephant attack in Buriram province has claimed the life of 62-year-old Chatchai (surname withheld), who was trampled and his body torn into two pieces by a wild elephant.

The incident occurred in a forest near Nong Bon Village, about 3 kilometers from his residence. Continued …

Wild ‘elephant migration’ causes a trunk-load of trouble in Khon Kaen

Khon Kaen, a northeastern province in Thailand, is currently experiencing an invasion of wild elephants from the neighboring province of Loei. The elephants, in search of food, have descended from the mountains of Phu Kradueng district, causing widespread destruction in two subdistricts – Boribun and Dong Lan in Si Chomphu district – of the province.

Images of five wild elephants frolicking in a pond in Si Chomphu have been shared on the Khon Kaen community Facebook page. Accompanying the images is a comprehensive report on the extensive damage inflicted by these large mammals on local plantations. Continued …

Urban monkey overpopulation problem swings toward solutions

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, in collaboration with the Wild Animal Rescue Foundation, has made significant progress in tackling the issue of monkey overpopulation in urban areas.

The first phase of this initiative involves the construction of a 7,000-square-meter enclosure for monkeys in the Huai Sai Wildlife Breeding Station, located in Phetchaburi province. Continued …

Rail plan sped up to meet deadline

The government is speeding up construction of its double-track train system project, which is hoped will turn Thailand into a regional cargo and passenger rail transport hub when completed by 2027 to serve the region’s new Singapore-Kunming route.

The new network will link the regional route that connects Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, and China, Department of Rail Transport Director-general Pichet Kunathammarak said yesterday. Continued …

Consensus grows to treat drugs users less harshly than dealers

The Public Health Ministry is considering a new regulation on drugs possession, specifically methamphetamine or ‘Ya Ba’ (also known as “crazy pills”), one of the most popular drugs in Thailand, in a bid to separate drugs users from dealers or manufacturers and facilitate treatment.

The Ministry’s acting permanent secretary, Dr. Kittisak Aksornwong, chaired a multi-sector meeting on Friday with representatives from the Interior Ministry, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, Office of Narcotics Control Board, Royal Thai Police Headquarters, Office of the Attorney General and Office of the Council of State. Continued …

Airbus flies helicopter route to tap demand in Thailand

Airbus has announced that its next area of focus is the helicopter business, citing a 20% growth potential in Thailand.

Airbus helicopters Vice President Fabrice Rochereau said the majority of the expansion was driven by increased demand for disaster relief, search and rescue, and maritime security in the country and throughout Southeast Asia. Continued …

Economy is in troubled waters, with fears for both exports and foreign tourism

Thailand’s economy is facing uncertainty on all fronts as the year draws to a close, with a decline in the projected GDP growth for 2023 to only 2.7% and possibly as low as 2.2% due to concerns not only about the country’s export industry but now also a more sluggish rebound in foreign tourism than predicted, with the Kingdom on target to generate only 61% of the level of income seen in 2019.

This week, the director of the Fiscal Policy Office at the Ministry of Finance warned that although Thailand should see something like 3.2% growth in 2024, it would be the middle of the year before anyone can be confident in a world of challenges and uncertainty. Continued …

Warning over Thailand’s finances

Analysts are expressing concerns over Thailand’s fiscal position, saying figures are likely to deteriorate in the medium term as the government pushes through populist policies such as the digital wallet scheme.

BMI, a unit of Fitch Solutions, expects Thailand’s budget deficit to widen from 2.9% in fiscal 2023 to 3.6% next fiscal year, as the government has announced several policies designed to drive GDP growth and unveiled a fiscal 2024 budget of 3.48 trillion baht. Continued …

Digital wallet: How rich is ‘rich’?

Billionaires living in luxurious penthouses, driving supercars, carrying designer bags, sipping cocktails on a yacht, and people throwing dollar bills up in the air, these are some of the common perceptions of “rich people”.

The definition of “rich” is, however, getting more challenging for Thais, especially if they earn 25,000 baht a month (circa US$690) or more. Continued …

Thailand’s proposed land bridge project could boost various sectors

The potential implementation of the proposed land bridge project in Thailand could significantly benefit sectors such as contractors, industrial estates, transport, and finance, according to industry analysts.

The project, which has been under discussion by various governments for four decades, aims to connect the Andaman Sea to the Gulf of Thailand, specifically via the provinces of Ranong and Chumphon. The primary motive behind the project is to reduce logistics costs by avoiding traffic in the Malacca Strait. Continued …

Digital Valley project continues to progress

The Thailand Digital Valley project in Chon Buri, expected to form part of the digital economy backbone, has completed the construction of the Digital Startup Knowledge Exchange Center, which is fully occupied and slated to open this year.

The center aims to host a large community of digital startups and workers, serving as a hub of digital innovation where people can share ideas and create networks. Continued …

Cambodia eyes joint fossil fuel future with Thailand

Cambodia plans to collaborate with Thailand for the renegotiation of a joint development area (JDA) focused on oil and gas exploration within the 26,000sq km overlapping claims area (OCA).

The area is estimated to contain significant oil and gas deposits beneath the seafloor, potentially holding up to 500 million barrels. As a looming power crisis casts a heavy shadow on the horizon, both nations are keen to secure a sustainable energy future. Continued …

PM gives green light for extending pub opening hours until 4am

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has given the green light for pubs and bars in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Chon Buri to stay open until 4am, tentatively from Dec. 15, to promote tourism and increase revenues.

Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke told the media that the government has carefully considered the proposal with security agencies and is fully aware that, in reality, many pubs and bars have been operating beyond the 2am closing time illegally and it is time to put night-life venues in order and in compliance with the law. Continued …

2024 Tourism Revenue Target Expected to Reach 3.5 Trillion Baht

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said that Srettha Thavisin, prime minister and finance minister, has a target to increase tourism revenue to 3.5 trillion baht by 2024.

This increase is expected to bring about a full recovery of the tourism industry, which was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The additional revenue is expected to come from international markets, with a focus on attracting more foreign tourists. Continued … 

Visa policy expected to increase flights to 1.3M next year

Thailand expects to see over 1.3 million flights next year, following the government’s recent announcement of a visa-free policy for Chinese, Kazakh, Indian and Taiwanese tourists, said Deputy Minister of Transport Surapong Piyachote.

He revealed after a meeting with executives of Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) yesterday that the ministry aims to maximize air traffic flow management, facilitating more incoming international flights to Thailand in the future. Continued …

How To Avoid Tourist Scams In Thailand

Thailand is considered a dream destination by many travelers, owing to its rich heritage, stunning landscapes and hospitable culture. However, amid the temptation, it is vital to be well-acquainted with the tourist scams that can potentially ruin your experience.

Our tips in this guide will help you avoid them while you visit Thailand. So, let’s go on a journey of awareness to ensure your Thai adventure remains a cherished memory devoid of unpleasant surprises. Continued …

Norse Atlantic Airways launches direct Oslo-Bangkok flights

Norse Atlantic Airways commenced its first direct flight between Oslo, Norway, and Bangkok, on Nov. 2. This launch establishes Norse Atlantic as the sole airline offering a non-stop route between these culturally rich destinations.

The direct flights will operate up to three times a week, promising a seamless and comfortable travel experience for passengers. – aviation24

Royal romance evolution: One man, many wives fades within 60 years in Thailand

From the era of Rama V with multiple wives to the era of Rama VII with a single wife, why did the perception of one man, many wives vanish within 60 years?

Aside from his work in reforming the nation and abolishing slavery, another facet of King Chulalongkorn, Rama V, is most remembered from our textbooks, his position as the king with the most consorts and concubines in Thai history, a total of 152. Continued …

A True Taste Of Thailand: A Guide To The Country’s Best Street Eats

From the booming big cities to UNESCO World Heritage sites and smaller, idyllic, lesser-known islands, Thailand is a paradise that one needs to visit to fully explore. After strolling through white-sand beaches, enjoying the balmy weather of this Southeast Asian gem, or soaking in all of the culture, one does tend to build up an appetite.

Fortunately, Thailand is a fabulous place to enjoy some unique food. No matter what region of the country one finds themselves in, there’s something delicious to munch on, and in Thailand, there is tons of street food to enjoy. Continued …

Chiang Rai, Suphanburi get UNESCO recognition as ‘creative cities’

Chiang Rai and Suphanburi have been recognized as creative cities by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), bringing them global acclaim.

Minister of Culture Sermsak Pongpanit said that Chiang Rai province had been recognized by the UN body as a “City of Design”, and Suphanburi province as a “City of Music”. Continued …

Myanmar military using foreigners, including Thais, as human shields

Myanmar’s military junta has used foreigners, including Thais, as human shields in northeastern Shan State, where fighting the junta and an ethnic alliance is escalating. Continued …

Ukraine reports ‘massive’ Russian drone attack

Ukrainian officials said Friday that Russia had launched a “massive” drone attack on its cities and infrastructure overnight, warning that Moscow could be escalating its strikes ahead of winter. Continued …

Air pollution in Delhi close to maximum level possible

With Delhi blanketed by a thick layer of toxic haze, air pollution reached the near-maximum level possible in the city on Friday with the air quality index (AQI) recorded at 470. As air quality in several parts of Delhi-NCR plunged to the “severe” category on Friday morning, people said they experienced breathing problems and irritation in the eye, among others. Continued …

Earthquake in western Nepal kills more than 128

At least 128 people were killed and hundreds injured when a magnitude-6.4 earthquake shook northwestern Nepal late Friday, government officials said. Continued …

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.

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 

November Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule

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
bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-April 14

  • Songkran: Songkran in full swing/Songkran festival to generate 18.5 billion baht, says tourism agency/It’s called ‘Water Festival’ just because April is hot/New year revelry returns to Thai streets as tourism rebounds/Road safety tightened after Songkran travel kills 63 in 2 days/Money talks: Russians are coming to Thailand/Police stop partygoers entering crowded Khao San on first day of Songkran/Domestic, regional tourists are the stars of Songkran, tourism executives say/
  • More Thailand news: Protecting yourself from the harmful effects of haze/Thailand among most improved countries in which to do business/Beware of passport scam targeting British nationals in Thailand/No savings, huge debts: More and more Thai seniors struggling to survive/Air pollution increases in upper northeastern regions of Thailand/Forest fire in Chiang Rai prompts hospital to prepare to transfer patients/Despite all the water splashing, Thailand faces another drought/Banpu Next identifies 5 clean-energy trends to watch in 2023/Apo, the bartender in TV’s KinnPorsche: The Series? is from Hua Hin/
  • Tourism: Measures sought to rein in airfares/China-Laos railway starts cross-border passenger services/Tong Chom markets key to aiding grassroots economy/
  • Thailand Experience: Pad Thai: The history and myth behind Thailand’s most famous dish/
  • Links: Calendar of events/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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Songkran in full swing

Thailand is celebrating Songkran this week with gaiety and color throughout the country, particularly in foreign visitors hotspots such as Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket. The festivities coincide with positive signs that the country’s foreign tourism industry is recovering, with good news regarding the return of valuable long-haul visitors from key western markets also in the pipeline, according to a senior Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) official, despite higher airfares since 2020.

Thailand’s 2023 annual Songkran festivities are in full swing across the kingdom with Bangkok’s Silom Road again becoming the center of activity, with holidaymakers armed with water guns and buckets splashing each other, having fun and soaking up the carefree atmosphere. Continued …

Songkran festival to generate 18.5 billion baht, says tourism agency

This week’s Songkran festival is expected to generate 18.5 billion baht and attract over 300,000 foreign tourists, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Over 3.8 million Thais and about 305,000 foreign tourists are expected to travel in the country during the long holiday break, TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Thursday. Continued …

It’s called ‘Water Festival’ just because April is hot

Songkran is an elephant and everyone can be one of the blind men fumbling around for its shape. Road accidents make it a nightmare festival for related authorities or rescue workers. Old folks in rural areas count the days for the time when they can see their beloved youngsters again. Teenagers long to be extra-playful with the opposite sex. Foreigners yearn to let loose.

UNESCO has approved the inclusion of the Songkran festival in the tentative list of Intangible Cultural Heritages (ICH) for consideration in December this year. On the one hand, it can be understood why. On the other, it’s somewhat hard to pinpoint the cultural or artistic values that make Songkran deserve it more than, say, some other exotic shows in Thailand or abroad that wow foreign visitors. Continued …

New year revelry returns to Thai streets as tourism rebounds

Tens of thousands of revelers, including hordes of foreign tourists sporting floral shirts and plastic water guns, descended on the streets of Bangkok on Thursday for the biggest traditional new year gathering since the pandemic.

Festivities for Songkran, a much-loved Thai festival sometimes described as the world’s largest water fight, had been muted or barred for the past few years due mainly to COVID-19 restrictions. Continued …

Road safety tightened after Songkran travel kills 63 in 2 days

The total number of road deaths during the first two days of Songkran holiday travel rose to 63, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reported on Thursday.

Road accident statistics were collected from the first two days of this year’s holiday on Thursday morning, DDPM Director-general Boontham Lertsukekasem said. Continued …

Money talks: Russians are coming to Thailand

The Russian tourism market in Thailand, driven by the fallout from the Ukraine war, is very strong this year, with over 1.5 million visitors already signed up or who have visited, with 591,002 Russian holidaymakers already received up to April 5.

Many are Russian nationals taking flight from their home country fearing conscription, while the majority are holidaymakers who face complications traveling to other markets because of tough international sanctions against Moscow over the conflict. – thaiexaminer.com

Police stop partygoers entering crowded Khao San on first day of Songkran

Police stopped Songkran revelers from entering Khao San Road at 8pm on Thursday after deciding the popular party street was at risk of dangerous overcrowding.

Asmany as 40,000 Thai and foreign revelers joined the water fight on Bangkok’s backpacking hub on the first day of the Songkran festival. As the crowd built up in the evening, police manning checkpoints were ordered to close off the street and prevent more visitors from entering to reduce congestion in the area. Continued … 

Domestic, regional tourists are the stars of Songkran, tourism executives say

Domestic tourists will account for the lion’s share of tourists during Songkran, while most foreign tourists will be from countries in the region, tourism association leaders said.

Phuket Tourist Assn. President Thaneth Tantipiriyakij said most visitors to the island province during the festival will be either Thai or from countries in the region. Continued …

More Thailand news …

Protecting yourself from the harmful effects of haze

Fine air pollution particles are continuing to have adverse effects on the health of people around the country, as the air they are breathing has reached dangerous levels of pollution.

On April 7, the levels of particulate matter 2.5 or PM 2.5 in Bangkok and surrounding provinces ranged from 33 to 57 micrograms per cubic meter of air, according to the Pollution Control Department, with 18 areas classified as orange, reflecting levels at which they start to affect health. Continued …

Thailand among most improved countries in which to do business

Thailand, Vietnam and India are the Asian countries that have most improved their ranking over the past year in the list of the best countries in which to do business assessment by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).

The business environment report measures the attractiveness of the business environment in 82 countries on a quarterly basis, using a standard analytical framework with 91 indicators. Continued …

Beware of passport scam targeting British nationals in Thailand

The British Foreign Office issued a warning to both UK residents and expats in Thailand about a passport scam that is currently targeting British nationals in the kingdom.

Fraudsters are attempting to capitalize on the recent strikes by government workers in the UK, which have caused delays in passport renewals, by promising to bypass the three-month waiting period for a fee. Continued …

No savings, huge debts: More and more Thai seniors struggling to survive

Thailand expresses gratitude and respect for the older generation every year on April 13, National Elderly Day. Yet, every year the number of senior Thais in dire straits, struggling to survive without support or a safety net, rises.

A 2021 survey revealed that half of Thais aged 60 to 69 were still working to support themselves. Most of them were working as farmers, vendors, taxi drivers, delivery staff or doing odd jobs. Continued …

Air pollution increases in upper northeastern regions of Thailand

According to the Pollution Control Department, 23 locations, primarily in the northern region of Thailand, have been found to contain high levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers or smaller in diameter (PM2.5). The most severe levels were identified in Chiang Mai. These concentrations are considered detrimental to human health.

As of 11am yesterday, PM2.5 dust levels in the north ranged between 98 to 277 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³) of air over the past 24 hours. Continued …

Forest fire in Chiang Rai prompts hospital to prepare to transfer patients

Officials in Chiang Rai’s Mae Chan district are prepared to transfer patients from the district hospital to others in the northern province if a fire on Doi Jorakae Mountain becomes a health threat, officials at the provincial public health operations center said on Thursday.

“The fire ignited about 15 kilometers from Maechan Hospital,” officials said, saying they are monitoring the blaze around the clock. Continued …

Despite all the water splashing, Thailand faces another drought

The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has warned people to prepare for a drought by saving water due to risks posed by the El Nino phenomenon since July, resulting in less rainfall than is commonly experienced at this time of year.

Speaking after meeting with representatives of water-related agencies such as the Department of Royal Irrigation, the Department of Water Resources, Thai Meteorological Department and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat), ONWR Secretary-general Surasee Kittimonthon said the office has set up a plan to respond to any potential drought crisis that may occur, especially during a period of intermittent rain in August. Continued … 

Banpu Next identifies 5 clean-energy trends to watch in 2023

Battery energy storage systems are among five clean energy trends to watch this year as Thailand moves toward its net-zero goal, according to a report released by Banpu Next, the smart-energy unit of Banpu, earlier this week.

The report identifies the trends as:

  • battery energy storage systems,
  • building integrated photovoltaics,
  • offshore wind,
  • power-to-X, and
  • green hydrogen – Continued …

Apo, the bartender in TV’s KinnPorsche: The Series? Is from Hua hin

Nattawin Wattanagitiphat, better known by his adoring fans as Apo, is a Thai actor and model who became a sensation for starring in the hit series KinnPorsche: The Series, a raunchy and romantic love story between mafia boss Kinn and his newly hired bartender-slash-bodyguard Porsche, played by Apo.

Apo was born in the Hua Hin region of Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan province in 1994. While he’s private about his personal life and his family, he seems to share a close bond with his parents, who once surprised him with cake on his birthday at a KinnPorsche concert. Continued …

Measures sought to rein in airfares

The Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT) is urging the government to lower the fuel tax and operational fees at airports amid concerns over a potential increase in oil prices following the announcement by OPEC+ that the group would reduce its output, saying the lower cost burden would eventually help to reduce airfares.

AAT President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth said the government could help airlines by subsidizing a scheme that would assist them with their costs, including the jet fuel tax, as well as service fees required by Airports of Thailand and Aeronautical Radio of Thailand. Continued …

China-Laos railway starts cross-border passenger services

The China-Laos Railway started cross-border passenger services on Thursday, a move that is expected to boost regional people-to-people connectivity.

The first passenger train departed from Kunming, the capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, at 8:08 am Beijing Time, heading for the Lao capital Vientiane. Continued …

Tong Chom markets key to aiding grassroots economy

The Commerce Ministry has vowed to ramp up Tong Chom (must-see) markets nationwide this year to stimulate the grassroots economy, with the aim of generating revenue of 1.9 billion baht this year.

According to Goranij Nonejuie, deputy director-general of the Internal Trade Department, his department is scheduled to hold year-round events nationwide to highlight local goods, music shows, folk songs, cultural performances, street art and other activities that showcase each community’s unique identity. Continued …

Pad Thai: The history and myth behind Thailand’s most famous dish

At the most renowned restaurants or in hidden corners of Bangkok’s alleyways, pad Thai became Thailand’s letter of introduction to the world. But despite its well-known fame, the iconic fried noodle dish’s concept is recent and confused with the country’s own history.

With its mixture of ingredients and textures, as well as the balance between sweetness, acidity, saltiness and spice, pad Thai conquered the hearts of foodies inside and outside the nation. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-April 3

  • Thailand’s 45-day visa exemption is back to 30 days/
  • Taxi drivers clash over foreign passengers at Hua Hin train station/
  • Polo on the beach/
  • Thailand is ‘burning’/
  • Three villages in Chiang Mai declared pollution disaster zones/
  • Chiang Rai skies lit up with disquieting message: ‘We can’t breathe’/
  • Thai Real Estate To Attract Foreign Investors up to Bt150 billion/
  • Thailand’s national lottery to stop paying out prizes in cash/
  • Most Thais want to be self-employed/
  • Local waste-to-energy trash solution draws fire/
  • UN group: more can be done for road safety in Thailand/
  • Flu vaccine ‘a top priority’ this year/
  • Chinese student kidnapped, tortured, murdered by gang from China/
  • Many unemployed elephants back home in Surin, huge and hungry/
  • Bangkok makes pact with Moscow to collaborate on 6 areas/
  • Tourism: New electrics make tuk-tuks a safer, cleaner and more convenient service/
  • International: Oil powers announce surprise cuts of more than 1 million bpd/Death toll at 32 after tornadoes hit US South, Midwest, East; more possible/
  • 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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Thailand’s 45-day visa exemption is back to 30 days

Thailand’s 45-day visa exemption is back down to 30 days for visitors to the kingdom from a list of around 60 countries.

Starting from April 1, visitors from mainland Europe, the UK, the U.S., Australia, Saudi Arabia, and other countries will only be granted a 30-day stay in Thailand if they choose to enter the country without obtaining a prior visa, as the 45-day visa exemption is officially over. Continued …

Taxi drivers clash over foreign passengers at Hua Hin train station

An altercation involving two female taxi drivers, one of whom was a Grab driver, is being investigated by police.

The altercation took place on March 29 outside Hua Hin train station and reportedly began over a fare dispute involving a foreign family of five with their luggage. Continued …

Polo on the beach

The InterContinental–B.Grimm Beach Polo 2023 tournament took place Saturday on Hua Hin beach. The attracted international teams from four countries, as well as scores of spectators. The tournament was held at the beachfront of the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. (HHT)

Thailand is ‘burning’

A list has been compiled of wildfires that have occurred over the past six months versus the same period a year earlier and the amount of land affected.

Forest fires are becoming a common occurrence in the country. The most recent, and perhaps the worst in years, was the blaze that broke out on Khao Chaphlu in Nakhon Nayok’s Khao Laem area on Wednesday. Continued …

Three villages in Chiang Mai declared pollution disaster zones

Three villages in Mueang and Hang Dong districts of Chiang Mai have been declared disaster zones by the provincial administration, as people in the northern capital are being choked by PM2.5 dust, the level of which is many times higher than Thailand’s safety level of 50-microns in many areas.

Deputy Gov. Chatchawarl Panya, acting on behalf of the governor, issued an announcement on Friday declaring Village 7 in Bang Pong subdistrict of Hang Don district, Village 3 in Mae Hia subdistrict and Village 12 in Suthep subdistrict of Mueang district to be disaster zones. Continued …

Chiang Rai skies lit up with disquieting message: ‘We can’t breathe’

A drone light show pleading for farmers to stop burning fields to reduce PM2.5 air pollution in northern Thailand was held on Sunday night at a school in Chiang Rai’s Muang district.

Phrases like “We Can’t Breathe”, “Please Stop Burning” and “Save the North” were spelled out in Thai in the sky above the city by lights from drones. Continued …

Thai Real Estate To Attract Foreign Investors up to Bt150 billion

Wichai Viratakaphan, bank inspector and acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said that the property market in Thailand has recovered since 2022. One of the main driving factors is the close relationship between the sector and the tourism industry.

After surveying 27 Thai provinces in 2022, REIC found that the total value of the industry was Bt390 billion (11.4 billion U.S. dollars), an increase of 1,515% from 2021 when the value was Bt24 billion (704 million U.S. dollars). Continued …

Thailand’s national lottery to stop paying out prizes in cash

The Government Lottery Office has stopped paying out lottery prizes in cash, effective Saturday. Winners can instead claim their prize money through one of three channels, according to government deputy spokesperson Traisuree Traisoranakul.

The winners can have the money transferred to their bank accounts, except when the prize exceeds two million baht, for which the winner must have an account at either the Government Savings Bank or the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC). Continued …

Most Thais want to be self-employed

Now that Thailand’s economy has started picking up, many Thai entrepreneurs are looking for new business opportunities, a recent survey learned.

A poll titled “What do Thais think about business ownership” was conducted last month among 1,207 respondents nationwide and the results were published on Sunday. Continued …

Local waste-to-energy trash solution draws fire

Rather than protecting the environment and people from garbage pollution, the government plans to tackle overflowing waste by promoting small, localized waste-to-energy projects. This could bring about even greater environmental adversity and haze pollution, environmentalists say.

Due to the emission of hazardous pollutants and greenhouse gases from waste-to-energy projects, environmental experts and academics are urging the government to reconsider its strategy. They say it is impractical to create a sustainable waste-management system by prioritizing energy recovery alone. Continued …

UN group: more can be done for road safety in Thailand

Nneka Henry, head of the UN Road Safety Fund (UNRSF), is calling on ASEAN member countries, including Thailand, to work closely with her organization to promote road safety in the region.

Henry, who recently participated in a workshop on Enhanced Regional EU-ASEAN Dialogue or E-READI in Bangkok organized by the European Union and ASEAN Secretariat, expressed her concerns over road safety among ASEAN member countries. Continued …

Flu vaccine ‘a top priority’ this year

Doctors are urging people to receive influenza vaccines to boost their immunity amid concerns that the flu is likely to rebound following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dr. Tawee Chotpitayasunondh, president of the Influenza Foundation, said most people have been focused on how to protect themselves against Covid-19, such as by avoiding large gatherings and putting on face masks. Continued …

Chinese student kidnapped, tortured, murdered by gang from China

Nonthaburi Metropolitan Police on Saturday said three suspects have been identified who fled Thailand on March 30 after brutally torturing and murdering 22-year-old music student Jin Can who was enrolled at Bangkok Thonburi University and only arrived in the kingdom on March 8.

The case has parallels with another kidnap of a Chinese student on March 16 where a ฿3.2 million ransom was paid and police later arrested the gang. Continued …

Many unemployed elephants back home in Surin, huge and hungry

Lucky was busy munching on some freshly cut grass when she spotted a special treat a tourist was holding out. She dropped her next mouthful of greens and extended her trunk, asking for the banana.

For the first time in nine years, Lucky, 32, was back in her home village in rural Surin province in eastern Thailand, where tourists are much rarer than on the resort island where she used to work. Continued …

Bangkok makes pact with Moscow to collaborate on 6 areas

Bangkok and Moscow signed a joint-development pact in a ceremony at City Hall on Friday. Signing the memorandum of understanding were Deputy Bangkok Gov. Jakkapan Phiewngam and Moscow city government Minister Sergey Cheremin, who is also in charge of Moscow’s Department for External Economic and International Relations.

The MoU says the two cities will cooperate and exchange experiences in six aspects from 2023 to 2025, as follows: Continued … 

New electrics make tuk-tuks a safer, cleaner and more convenient service

Three-wheeled vehicles, or tuk-tuks as they are known, are popular among tourists in Thailand due to their distinctive appearance and ability to provide a unique local experience. However, when start-up company Urban Mobility Tech (UMT) surveyed the pain points of passengers in Bangkok using public transportation, they responded that tuk-tuks did not have a standard price and the vehicles created noise and air pollution.

In 2017, UMT decided to launch Muvmi, an electric tuk-tuk company, to provide an environmentally friendly and safe public transportation option to Bangkokians. Continued …

Oil powers announce surprise cuts of more than 1 million bpd

Major oil powers led by Saudi Arabia announced a surprise production cut of more than one million barrels per day on Sunday, calling it a “precautionary” move aimed at stabilizing the market. Continued …

Death toll at 32 after tornadoes hit US South, Midwest, East; more possible

The death toll rose to 32 and more dangerous weather was forecast for a wide swath of the U.S. South and Midwest already in ruins Sunday from a surge of storms that fueled confirmed or suspected tornadoes in at least 11 states. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-March 31

  • Thailand’s extreme air pollution: ‘I feel sorry for my daughter’/
  • Chiang Mai’s Air Ranks Worst Globally Several Days This Week/
  • Mountain blaze nears residential area, threatens Khao Yai/
  • ASEAN to tackle haze crisis/
  • Thai Spirits Businesses Set to Produce One Billion Baht Monthly/
  • From vision to reality: Making the Port Authority of Thailand world-class/
  • 4,500 trips arranged from Bangkok to transport 60,000 people every day during Songkran/
  • World Bank maintains Thailand’s 2023 growth outlook at 3.6%/
  • Thai exports expected to recover in second half of year/
  • Food and beverage industries turning to recycled plastic for packaging/
  • Elderly British man overstays visa in Thailand by 11 years/
  • Thai cop gets 256 years+ for stealing and selling guns from police station/
  • Tourism: Elephant rides are cruel, advocates say. So why are people still doing them?/Tourists flee gang warfare on Chon Buri’s Bang Saen beach/Hong Kong Airlines to launch direct flights to Phuket/
  • International: Former US president Trump indicted/UK claims post-Brexit win with trans-Pacific trade pact membership/
  • 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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Thailand’s extreme air pollution: ‘I feel sorry for my daughter’

For the past few weeks, Thommamoon Khowasat has painstakingly explained to his four-year-old daughter that the yellow cloud they see outside their window – which has tickled her imagination – is actually a danger to her health.

It’s a scare that has gripped northern Thailand, where millions of people are currently finding it harder to breathe. Continued …

Chiang Mai’s Air Ranks Worst Globally Several Days This Week

The levels of carcinogenic particulate matter 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) in Thailand’s Chiang Mai province has been deemed the worst in the world as of Wednesday morning.

The Command Center for preventing and resolving forest fire problems, smog and PM2.5 fine dust of Chiang Mai reported that 334 hot spots have been discovered in 25 districts across the province. The most effected areas are Chiang Dao district with 65 hot spots, Chai Prakan with 35, Mae Ai with 32, Samoeng with 30, and Fang with 27. Continued …

Mountain blaze nears residential area, threatens Khao Yai

A wildfire that was reportedly caused by a lightning strike on Khao Chaphlu in Nakhon Nayok’s Muang district on Tuesday evening was inching closer to residential areas yesterday after having burned 700 rai of forest across three mountains.

Authorities fear strong winds in the area may cause the fire to spread toward Khao Yai National Park, which is now just three kilometers away from the blaze, said an informed source. The park is a part of the 6,152-square-kilometers of reserved areas that form Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, which became UNESCO’s 184th Natural World Heritage site in 2005. Continued …

ASEAN to tackle haze crisis

The secretary-general of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has pledged to support efforts to combat transboundary haze pollution in the region.

Kao Kim Hourn yesterday paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha at Government House during an official visit to Thailand. Continued …

Thai Spirits Businesses Set to Produce One Billion Baht Monthly

The overall spirits business in Thailand has expanded by 20% since the start of 2023 and is set to pump in one billion baht into the economy every month in the second quarter, said Thanakorn Kuptachit, adviser to the Thai Alcohol Business Assn.

All types of alcoholic beverages have witnessed an uptick in sales volume, such as beer and spirits, which are driven by many factors, including the lifting of all COVID-related restrictions, the reopening of the country for travel and tourism, the upcoming Songkran Festival, or even the general elections. Continued …

From vision to reality: Making the Port Authority of Thailand world-class

Kriengkrai Chaisiriwongsuk, director general of the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT), explains how PAT and partnerships, “work like a charm” to drive PAT to the global stage.

Kriengkrai has completed his first year as the PAT director general. He says he strongly believes in his next step to transform the organization into a world-class port with excellent logistics services. Continued …

4,500 trips arranged from Bangkok to transport 60,000 people every day during Songkran

State-owned and private buses and vans have been arranged to make 4,500 trips every day to carry an estimated 60,000 people back home to the provinces from Bangkok for the long Songkran holidays, the Transport Company announced on Thursday.

Sanyalak Panwattanalikhit, managing director of the state-run Transport Company, said some 60,000 people would leave Bangkok by buses or vans each day from April 10-12. Continued …

World Bank maintains Thailand’s 2023 growth outlook at 3.6%

The Thai economy is expected to grow by 3.6% this year, up from 2.6% last year, supported by stronger private consumption, a recovery in the tourism sector and strong pent-up demand following China’s reopening, the World Bank said on Friday.

The 2023 outlook was unchanged from a forecast in December, and compared with 4.1% growth predicted in September. Continued …

Thai exports expected to recover in second half of year

The Commerce Ministry projects the country’s export sector to gradually recover in the latter part of the year, as inflationary pressures and global supply chain issues align with energy price trends.

The rebound of the service and tourism sectors should also boost demand from trading partners, the ministry said. Continued …

Food and beverage industries turning to recycled plastic for packaging

The world is becoming more aware of the importance of using recycled packaging to protect the environment, in line with the principles of a circular economy where post-consumer recycled PET (PCR PET) plastic resins are used in packaging in the food and beverage industry.

Today, PTT Global Chemical (GC) and ALPLA Group have joined hands with customers and partners to innovate better for consumers, and better for the world, by creating packaging for food and beverages using 100% post consumer recycled PET (PCR PET) plastic resins under the InnoEco brand, in Thailand. This initiative aims to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions to zero, or “Net Zero”. Continued …

Elderly British man overstays visa in Thailand by 11 years

Immigration Police arrested a 76-year-old British man in Bangkok who overstayed his visa in Thailand by a total of 4,142 days (11.3 years).

Thailand’s immigration authorities are taking their latest crackdown on foreign overstayers in the kingdom seriously – catching a British national who managed to slip through their net for more than a decade. He might be the longest overstayer to hit the headlines yet. Continued …

Thai cop gets 256 years+ for stealing and selling guns from police station

The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct cases, Region 1, has sentenced a policeman from the Pak Kret, Nonthaburi police station northwest of the Thai capital Bangkok to more than 200 years for stealing and selling guns from the station’s armory.

The case came to light last October in a report featuring the arrest of Police Senior Sgt. Maj. Chaowalit Pumkajorn. He admitted to stealing a few at a time over five years. Continued …

Elephant rides are cruel, advocates say. So why are people still doing them?

Earlier this month, a photo of Pai Lin made the viral rounds. The image of the septuagenarian female illustrated the dark and painful underbelly of elephant tourism in Thailand. The Asian elephant’s back sloped down like a ramp, the weight of countless visitors crushing her spine.

Pai Lin spent a quarter of a century entertaining tourists. She is now retired, living her remaining years at the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand in Tha Mai Ruak, the sanctuary that released the photo. However, around the world, many elephants and beasts of burden are not so fortunate. New generations of animals have joined their elders in a trade that is still prevalent but has been gaining more vocal opponents over the years. Continued …

Tourists flee gang warfare on Chon Buri’s Bang Saen beach

Gangs of around 20 young motorcyclists fought pitched battles at Bang Saen beach in Saensuk subdistrict of Chonburi on Thailand’s eastern seaboard last night.

Tourists – and they would have been mostly Thai at the resort famous for local tourism – scattered, fearing they might get caught up in the violence. Continued …

Hong Kong Airlines to launch direct flights to Phuket

Low-cost carrier Hong Kong Airlines will launch a direct flight to Phuket in southern Thailand starting June 16.

An Airbus A320 will service the direct Hong Kong–Phuket route four times per week to meet rising demand as tourists return to Thailand in full force. Continued …

Former US president Trump indicted

Former U.S. president Donald Trump was indicted by a Manhattan (New York) grand jury Thursday for his role in a $130,000 hush money payment to Stormy Daniels in the days before the 2016 election. Continued …

UK claims post-Brexit win with trans-Pacific trade pact membership

The UK will join 11 other countries in a major Asia-Pacific trade partnership, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Friday, in the country’s biggest post-Brexit trade deal following nearly two years of talks. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

 

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, cha am, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-Jan 13

  • Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain tomorrow/Foreign husband in Cha Am dies after saving Thai wife learner driver/Illegal pork import gets destroyed in Cha Am/Chula develops blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s 10 years before onset/Parliament study a blueprint for legalizing casinos minus controls: NGO/Corruption investigation leaves some Thai immigration officials in hot water/Thai economy up against it in 2023 despite the Chinese tourist hype/Merged True-DTAC to be called True Corp/Baht surges to its strongest level in 10 months/Australian Woman Runs Over, Kills Street Painter in Pattaya/Thailand’s birth rate falls to 71-year low, sparking alarm/2-meter tapeworm found in Thai man who eats raw meat/
  • Tourism: Hua Hin: City of Happiness?/PKK names 8 districts for tourism promotion/Foreigners Sought Who Allegedly Attacked Thai Tourists on Samui Island/Foreign Doctor on Vacation Rescues Russian Lady from Drowning at Patong Beach/5 foreign tourists injured as vehicle topples down ravine in Chiang Rai; driver dead/Foreign tourist breaks back at Pai waterfall/Phuket officials quash plans for floating beach club/
  • Thailand Experience: Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments/Where to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok/
  • Covid: Thailand clarifies all measures to control Covid as tourism surges/Seniors urged to get two booster jabs this year/
  • International: Study linking asthma and cooking gas stirs debate/Scientists sound alarm as ocean temperatures hit new record/Putin signals impatience over Ukraine war in commander switch/Chinese cities to pay people to have children/Tell-all book ‘Spare’ sells record 1.4M copies on day one/
  • 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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Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain tomorrow

Popular Swedish band Duo Jag will perform in a free concert at Black Mountain Golf Club on Saturday.

The group will perform favorite hit songs from all genres of music from recent years.

Foreign husband in Cha Am dies after saving Thai wife learner driver

A husband from Myanmar has died after helping his Thai wife escape death after she reversed into a 10-meter deep pond in front of their house at a Cha- Am housing estate.

Naimo, 39, had decided to let his learner driver wife Noranat, 41, reverse out of their home in Ban Nong Yao, Khao Yai subdistrict.

She later admitted she was not a good driver and she accidentally panicked in reverse by stepping on the accelerator. Continued …

Illegal pork import gets destroyed in Cha Am

Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives buried more than 700,000 kilograms of smuggled pork meat and entrails in Petchaburi province’s Cha Am district yesterday.

According to Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, the 723,786kg of smuggled pork — worth 123 million baht — was the largest load of illegal meat ever destroyed by the authorities.

The idea of burying pork came from the World Organization for Animal Health. The method was touted as the safest, cheapest, and most effective eco-friendly method that the authorities can use. Continued …

Chula develops blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s 10 years before onset

The Thai Red Cross Emerging Infectious Diseases Health Science Center at the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, has unveiled research on a blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s that can give a 10-year warning. The test may enable people to slow the development of dementia in old age.

Alzheimer’s is a disease that many people pray that they or their loved ones do not experience. But looking at today’s social context, there’s no denying that the disease is more relevant to us than it seems because it usually manifests itself when we are 60 years old and above. The fact that we are in an aging society, dementia, therefore, becomes more common.

Currently, 50 million people are suffering from dementia around the world. In Thailand, there are 700 thousand such patients, 500 thousand of which suffer from Alzheimer’s. Continued …

Parliament study a blueprint for legalizing casinos minus controls: NGO

An NGO has slammed the Thai Parliament’s study on entertainment complexes as a blueprint for legalizing casinos that ignores damage to society from legalized gambling.

Thanakorn Khomkris, secretary-general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, said that about 95% of the report focuses on how to legalize and collect revenues from casinos, while only 5% is devoted to other entertainment-complex businesses such as hotels, theme parks, sports arenas, and shopping malls.

“This shows that the study aims to highlight the pros of legalizing casinos in Thailand, while many important topics have been omitted, such as prevention of money laundering and other criminal activities, and the impact of legalized gambling on society,” he said on Thursday. Continued …

Corruption investigation leaves some Thai immigration officials in hot water

A corruption investigation has left some Thai immigration officials in hot water over their alleged involvement in helping Chinese businessmen. Senior Immigration Bureau investigators say they found clear evidence that some officers are helping foreign criminals by serving as owners of foundations that provided visas to Chinese nationals.

According to reports, one of the foundations had its headquarters in a chicken coop, which is clearly the wrong location for a foundation office. Further findings revealed schools applying for visas for such Chinese nationals, as well as falsification of signatures by a deputy governor.

The investigation found some IB officers using a fake foundation to hire agents to falsify visa documents. Police are expected to summon the accused officers, who range from station heads and commanders to officers. Continued …

Thai economy up against it in 2023 despite the Chinese tourist hype

Thailand’s economy in 2023 is already facing challenges and mired in difficulty despite the resumption of the Chinese tourist trade, with the country recording a current account deficit in November. A sharp drop in exports in the last three months of 2022 culminated in a 7.5% dive in December.

These latest figures have led to a revised GDP growth for the last quarter of the year, down from 4.5% to 2.5%. The downturn in the manufacturing and export sector, which accounts for 60% of the economy, is coming with the government seeking to fund a ฿3.34 trillion budget announced on Thursday for the year ahead, while seeking to control public sector debt, including short-term liabilities of ฿250 billion incurred to tamp down inflation last year, money that is owed to the country’s oil fund and electricity generation firms.

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan ocha and key ministers attended a ceremony at Government House on Thursday where the budget to 2024 was unveiled totaling ฿3.34 trillion in expenditure. General Prayut pointed out that the government would have to find the tax revenue to fund the budget and referred to the ongoing economic recovery, particularly in the foreign tourism sector. Continued …

Merged True-DTAC to be called True Corp

The boards of the telecom operators True Corp.oration and Total Access Communication (DTAC) have agreed to call their merged company True Corporation.

A joint shareholders’ meeting will be held on Feb. 23 to approve the new corporate structure and other details related to the amalgamation, the companies said in statements to the Stock Exchange of Thailand on Thursday.

The merger, to be completed within the first quarter of this year, will result in the creation of a telecom giant with a total of 55 million mobile subscribers, compared with 45 million for the current market leader Advanced Info Service Plc (AIS). Continued …

Baht surges to its strongest level in 10 months

The bath strengthened to 33.06 per United States dollar this morning, the highest level in 10 months, according to Kasikorn Research Center (KRC).

The Thai currency appreciated from 33.36 to the dollar when the market closed on Thursday, center research executive Kanchana Chokpaisarnsilp said. Continued …

Australian Woman Runs Over, Kills Street Painter in Pattaya

An Australian driver accidentally ran over a street painter on the job and killed him in Pattaya Wednesday.

The victim, Prasit Kabphet, was painting the road at the entrance of Wongamat Residence Condominium in Soi 16 in the Naklua subdistrict, Banglamung district, Chonburi.

CCTV footage discovered that the 62-year-old Australian, Michelle Ann Eddy, seemed to be totally unaware of Prasit when she turned her vehicle around the corner to enter her condo’s front gate where the 45-year-old victim was working. The driver then ran over the victim and kept driving to her parking lot, where someone rushed to tell her that she had run over a man. Continued …

Thailand’s birth rate falls to 71-year low, sparking alarm

Thailand is becoming a graying society as the number of children born last year hit a 71-year low, the Social Development and Human Security Ministry announced on Thursday.

Only 502,000 children were born in Thailand last year, about 30% below the target of 700,000 and the lowest birth rate in 71 years, Anukul Pidkaew, permanent secretary at the ministry, told a press conference.

He was joined by Dr. Somchai Jitsuchon, a researcher at the Thailand Development Research Institute. Both described the low birth rate as a “crisis”. Continued …

2-meter tapeworm found in Thai man who eats raw meat

A Thai man posted a video on social media to warn people to avoid eating raw meat after a two-meter tapeworm was found in his body.

Amarit Chuetamuen posted videos to share his deworming experience. In the first video, Amarit told his followers that his anus had become itchy and then felt something slipping out of his bottom.

He thought it was his intestine at first but found that it was moving. Then, a 10-centimeter parasite worm slipped out of his back end. The cause of parasites like this is believed to be consuming raw beef. Continued … 

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  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
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  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
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That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

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For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

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Hua Hin: City of Happiness?

Hua Hin government officials have devised a new local development plan for 2023-2027, with the theme “Hua Hin, the City of Happiness”, which includes five strategies:

  1. Promotion of tourism, infrastructure and economy development.
  2. Promote the development of education, religion, culture and recreation.
  3. Promote the development of public health and the environment
  4. Promote development of social welfare, community and quality of life
  5. To promote the development of administration and services

PKK names 8 districts for tourism promotion

The “Hidden Wow Prachuap Khiri Khan” project will promote tourist attractions or tourist resources in eight districts with high potential to increase the depth of travel experiences in the province.

The campaign aims to distribute tourists both locally and during travel time to reduce the concentration of tourists in any particular area. Tourists will also be encouraged to travel on weekdays and focus on the advantages of travel year-round.

The eight identified districts for the Hidden Wow campaign are:

  • Hua Hin District: Khao Tao and Khao Tao Reservoir
  • Pranburi District: Kung Sai Beach and Khao Kalok Beach
  • Pranburi District: Phraya Nakhon Cave, Nom Sao Island, and Khao Daeng Canal
  • Kui Buri District: Kui Buri Safari National Park
  • Amphoe Mueang including the 3 bays (Ao Prachuap, Ao Manao, Ao Noi) and Khlong Bueng Reservoir.
  • Thap Sakae District: Koh Chan – Koh Thai Si Ban Thung Pradu Tourism Community and Khao Lan Waterfall
  • Bang Saphan District, including Phra Mahathat Chedi Phakdi Prakak Bo Thong Lang Bay and gold pan culture courtyard
  • Bang Saphan Noi District: Pha Fang Daeng and Khao Pho – Hua Hin municipality

Foreigners Sought Who Allegedly Attacked Thai Tourists on Samui Island

Foreigners who allegedly attacked a group of Thai tourists on Samui Island reportedly relocated to Phuket. Thailand’s most famous cop, “Big Joke”, has personally ordered for the suspects to be found.

The Bo Phut Police said they have identified a group of foreigners who allegedly attacked Thai tourists on New Year’s Eve. A summons for assault has been issued for them and the foreigners, who are believed to be expats, have been encouraged to turn themselves in. Thai police have also contacted the Immigration Bureau in regards to the visa status of the suspects.

Deputy National Police Chief Gen. Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn went to the Bo Phut Police Station on Samui Island to make urgent progress on the case. Continued …

Foreign Doctor on Vacation Rescues Russian Lady from Drowning at Patong Beach

A foreign tourist, who is a licensed medical doctor, rescued a Russian tourist from drowning at Phuket’s Patong Beach.

Patong lifeguards said that on Wednesday a female Russian tourist was struggling in the seawater. Foreign tourists who saw the incident helped to pull her up to the beach.

The female Russian tourist was unconscious and had no pulse. A male foreign tourist and Patong lifeguards provided help and CPR to the Russian woman before her pulse was detected again. Continued …

5 foreign tourists injured as vehicle topples down ravine in Chiang Rai; driver dead

An accident on the hill leading up to Moo Ban Akha Pang Klang, a popular tourist area in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, resulted in one death and five injuries.

A Toyota Fortuner was driven off the dirt track and toppled 30 meters down a ravine, flipping many times. It ended up in the Mae Sat creek.

The driver Weerawat, 51, from Chiang Mai, was reportedly thrown out of the vehicle, then crushed and drowned under its weight in the creek. Continued …

Foreign tourist breaks back at Pai waterfall

A foreign tourist broke his back in a motorbiking accident at a waterfall in the backpacking hotspot of Pai, Mae Hong Son province on Thursday.

Issam Messaoudi, a dual Belgian-Moroccan national, was rescued and rushed to Pai Hospital after his motorcycle lost control while he was riding up a path next to Mor Paeng waterfall in Pai district.

X-rays taken at the hospital showed his spine was broken, prompting medics to transfer him to the better-equipped Bangkok Hospital in Chiang Mai – an agonizing 130-kilometer journey. Continued …

Phuket officials quash plans for floating beach club

Phuket Gov. Narong Woonsiew and a number of other officials have put a stop to plans to launch a floating beach club, or party boat, in the Andaman Sea. Narong says he “does not approve” of Yona Beach Club’s plans and has ordered officials to carry out inspections and meet with the club’s owners.

The vessel has spent the past two weeks on a PR charm offensive, inviting media and influencers to visit the boat while it’s been moored in Patong Bay.

Meanwhile, Capt. Krit Kluebmat of the Maritime Enforcement Command Center says officials from Kathu District Office and Patong Municipality Office also oppose the idea, claiming the boat will cause environmental damage and create too much noise. Continued …

Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments

Thailand is known for its tropical climate, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of natural remedies. Historically, Thai herbs and natural remedies have been used to treat a wide variety of ailments.

From digestive problems to skin issues, Thai herbs and natural remedies can help provide relief and promote better health overall. Here is a list of some of the most commonly used Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments.

Kaffir Lime

Kaffir lime is a citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia. It has a distinct, strong aroma and flavor that is used to add a unique taste to dishes. It is often used as an ingredient in Thai and other Southeast Asian cuisines. Continued …

Chatuchak weekend market

Where to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok

Bangkok is an amazing city with a variety of delicious and healthy food. Whether you are looking for fresh produce, organic items or just some good deals, there are many great places to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok. From bustling street markets to large supermarkets, you are sure to find something that fits your needs and budget.

Some of the best places to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok include Chatuchak Market, Makro, Big C, Tesco Lotus, the Tops Supermarket, and the Natural Food Market. With these great options, you can find everything you need for a healthy and affordable diet in Bangkok.

Chatuchak weekend market

This market is a true Bangkok experience – a shopper’s paradise with over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to food. With its bustling atmosphere and endless variety of goods, it is no wonder the Chatuchak Weekend Market (JJ Market) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok. Continued …

Thailand clarifies all measures to control Covid as tourism surges

The National Communicable Diseases Committee on Thursday approved the government’s revised measures for controlling Covid-19, including tests on arriving tourists with obvious symptoms of the disease, and charging fees for vaccinating tourists who voluntarily request shots.

The decisions were made at the committee’s first meeting of the year, which was chaired by Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

It followed an earlier decision by the government to reimpose proof of vaccination for all foreign tourists ahead of the imminent return of tourists from China. That decision was, however, quickly scrapped. Some confusion resulted, so the committee provided a detailed list of its preparations for ensuring Covid-19 remains under control as tourism surges. Continued …

Seniors urged to get two booster jabs this year

The Department of Disease Control is urging senior citizens and individuals with chronic diseases to get two doses of Covid-19 vaccine this year as a precaution against coronavirus infections.

DDC chief Tares Krassanairawiwong said the elderly and those living with chronic conditions should get a booster ahead of the upcoming rainy season, and another before the cooler weather arrives toward the end of the year. Continued … 

Study linking asthma and cooking gas stirs debate

New research that links cooking with natural gas to around 12% of childhood asthma cases has sparked debate about the health risks of kitchen stoves, as well as calls in the United States for stepped-up regulation. Continued … 

Scientists sound alarm as ocean temperatures hit new record

The world’s oceans, which have absorbed most of the excess heat caused by humanity’s carbon pollution, continued to see record-breaking temperatures last year, according to research published Wednesday. Continued … 

Putin signals impatience over Ukraine war in commander switch

President Vladimir Putin’s move to replace his top commander in Ukraine is a sign of military disarray and his growing impatience in a war Russia is not winning, analysts said. Continued … 

Chinese cities to pay people to have children

With China on track to record its first population decline in more than six decades, cities across the country have announced new cash incentives to encourage couples to have more children. Continued … 

Tell-all book ‘Spare’ sells record 1.4M copies on day one

Prince Harry’s memoir sold a “record” 1.4 million copies in just 24 hours, its publisher said on Thursday, as his father and brother kept calm and carried on with public visits. 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 

 

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