- Road closure to disrupt Hua Hin travel/Hua Hin Chinese New Year/Hua Hin’s electric vehicle master plan/Traffic signs installed on Soi 78/Officials insprect Hua Don beach/Warn Before Fine’ Initiative/Hat Yai school director dies after shooting
- ECONOMY: World Bank cuts Thailand’s 2026 growth forecast/Growth likely at 1.5%–1.75%/Political hurdles to deficit-cut plan/Tech and healthcare investment
- TOURISM: Plan will reduce visa-free stays/Why tourists continue to choose Thailand/Chinese New Year spending/Thai hotel rates increased 3%/Disneyland Thailand idea returns
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Essential Dress Code Guidelines/Cultural Festivals In Thailand
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Growth Gains by Scaling Up Green Manufacturing/Thailand’s EV sales surge/$100-million World Bank Green Loan/Southern Thailand pioneering marine conservation
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Rama II Road closure to disrupt Hua Hin travel
Travelers heading between Hua Hin and Bangkok are being advised to plan ahead following a Rama II Road closure at the Bang Khun Thian Bridge that will last for up to four months.
The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) announced that main carriageway lanes on Rama II Road at the Bang Khun Thian Bridge will be partially closed 24 hours a day to allow for bridge construction works. The authority said it has revised its traffic-management plan to reduce the impact on motorists by closing only certain lanes, rather than the entire main route. For many residents of Hua Hin and Cha Am, Rama II Road is the main gateway to and from Bangkok. Continued …
Hua Hin Chinese New Year celebration set for Monday
The Hua Hin Chinese New Year celebration will take place on Monday, Feb. 16, starting at 4 pm, with Hua Hin City Municipality confirming a full program of traditional processions, performances, and cultural activities.
Officials said preparations are now complete for this year’s festival, which is being organized to preserve and promote Chinese cultural traditions in the city. The event marks the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, a year associated with progress, energy, and positive change. Continued …
Hua Hin’s electric vehicle master plan discussed
Hua Hin’s electric vehicle master plan moved a step forward yesterday as city officials met with Shinawatra University to discuss EV adoption and charging infrastructure.
During the meeting, various options were proposed for the municipality regarding the adoption of electric vehicles. These included eight-meter electric buses, multi-purpose vans, waste-collection trucks, central fleet SUV vehicles, four-door pick-up trucks, two-door pick-up trucks, and electric motorcycles. Continued …
Traffic signs and road markings installed on Soi 78 to ease congestion
Hua Hin City Municipality has installed new traffic signs and repainted road markings on Soi Hua Hin 78 in an effort to address ongoing congestion and improve traffic flow at one of the area’s busy junctions.
The improvements follow repeated complaints and observations of vehicles stopping within the yellow cross-hatched box junction during red lights. The area is designated as a strictly no-parking, no-stopping and no-entry zone. However, cars and motorcycles have frequently halted in the marked space, blocking access for vehicles attempting to enter or exit Soi Hua Hin 78. Continued …
Hua Hin officials insprect Hua Don beach in Khao Takiab
Hua Hin City Municipality and marine authorities have carried out an inspection of encroachment on public waterways at Hua Don beach in Khao Takiab, as part of ongoing efforts to enforce navigation laws and protect public access.
According to officials, the Prachuap Khiri Khan Regional Marine Office Branch has set out a plan to increase patrols in the Hua Don beach area of Nong Kae subdistrict. The plan includes enforcing navigation regulations, inspecting the safety of piers and passenger boats, and checking for encroachment on public waterways. Continued …
Police to Launch ‘Warn Before Fine’ Initiative
The Royal Thai Police has announced a “warn before fine” measure starting in January, aiming to improve traffic law compliance in Thailand. Under the program, drivers will receive a warning for certain offenses before any fines are imposed. However, vehicles emitting excessive black smoke will be fined immediately due to environmental concerns.
This campaign, running through March, will also involve public outreach efforts to educate citizens on traffic regulations. Offenders without outstanding fines will receive a warning for eligible violations. Continued …
Hat Yai school director dies after shooting
The director of a Hat Yai school in Songkhla province, who was seriously injured during a shooting at the school yesterday afternoon, has succumbed to her injuries in hospital.
Sasipatchara Sinsamosorn, director of Phatong Prathan Kiriwat School in Patong sub-district, died from severe internal injuries and massive blood loss, Hat Yai Hospital Director Viroj Yommuang said today. She had been shot in the left chest and torso and doctors had tried their best to save her, Viroj said. Continued …
World Bank cuts Thailand’s 2026 growth forecast to 1.6%
The World Bank now expects Thailand’s economic growth, measured by GDP, to slow to 1.6% in 2026, driven by weaker global trade, persistently high household debt, and a slower recovery in tourism. This is below its earlier projection of 1.8%, before a rebound to 2.2% in 2027.
Melinda Good, the World Bank’s country director for Thailand and Myanmar, said Thailand’s growth is projected to pick up to 2.2% in 2027 on the back of improving global conditions, stronger private-sector investment, and foreign direct investment (FDI) projects beginning to materialize as actual investment. Continued …
Growth likely at 1.5%–1.75%: UTCC
The economy is expected to expand by 1.51%–1.75% this year, says a public opinion survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Thanavath Phonvichai, UTCC president and chairman of the advisory board at the university’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, said the survey on public expectations of the new administration shows voters prioritize structural economic reform over short-term populist measures.
Some 24.5% of respondents want the government to focus on infrastructure development and strengthening the grassroots economy. Another 22.8% favor policies to boost purchasing power and domestic consumption, while 20.8% support regulatory reform and greater transparency to enhance investor confidence. Continued …
Fitch flags political hurdles to Thailand’s deficit-cut plan and VAT hikes
A Fitch Ratings report published on Tuesday said Thailand’s election outcome points to policy continuity under a Bhumjaithai-led administration, even if a new coalition government is formed. Fitch stressed that the key determinant of Thailand’s sovereign rating going forward will be the new government’s economic and fiscal policy choices.
Fitch assessed that Bhumjaithai and its allies are likely to be able to form a coalition government, reducing the risk of post-election disruption. It said the increased number of seats held by Bhumjaithai and its partners could result in a more stable government than in the past. Continued …
Tech and healthcare investment outlook good
Foreign investors are expected to continue investing in advanced technology, healthcare, and sustainability industries this year, following a record high of 324 billion baht in outlays last year, according to the Department of Business Development (DBD) at the Ministry of Commerce.
Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the department, said the tally in 2025 set a record for foreign investment, with Singapore leading the way at 103 billion baht, followed by Japan with 85.6 billion, China 35 billion, Taiwan 17 billion, and Mauritius 16.5 billion. Continued …
Plan will reduce visa-free stays to 30 days
The Tourism and Sports Ministry insists the government’s plan to reduce visa-free stays from 60 days should not impact tourism, as most foreign tourists, on average, stay for less than a month.
Natthriya Thaweevong, permanent tourism and sports secretary, said a new committee set up by the prime minister and chaired by the permanent foreign affairs secretary plans to revise visa measures, including 60-day visa-free stays for visitors from 93 countries. Continued …
Why tourists continue to choose Thailand
The narrative surrounding Thailand’s tourism appeal has evolved. Visitors no longer come simply because the destination is affordable. Increasingly, travelers choose Thailand for its depth of experience, consistency, and a genuine sense of welcome that remains difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Thailand works well for first-time visitors, but it works even better for those who return again and again. That balance remains one of the country’s greatest strengths. A common observation among visitors is how quickly they feel comfortable after arrival. Modern international airports, well-connected transport systems, professionally managed hotels and attractions, and the widespread use of English in tourism areas allow travellers to settle in quickly and feel at ease. Continued …
Chinese New Year spending expected to rise 5%
An estimated 54.2 billion baht will circulate during the 2026 Lunar New Year, marking a six-year high and 5% growth from the previous year, according to the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).
The UTCC’s consumer spending survey revealed 25% of respondents anticipate a more vibrant celebration this year, while half expect the vibe to be similar to last year. Continued …
Report: Thai hotel rates increased 3% in 2025
The average daily rate for hotels in Thailand surged by 3% last year to 4,984 baht and they recorded a longer average length of stay, with Booking.com, Agoda, and direct hotel bookings generating the most revenue, according to SiteMinder.
In 2025, the inbound market to Thailand declined 7.23% in arrivals and 4.7% in revenue to 33 million and 1.53 trillion baht, respectively. However, the average daily rate registered 3% growth, according to the Hotel Booking Trends report by SiteMinder, a hotel guest acquisition and revenue platform. Continued …
Disneyland Thailand idea returns with B300-billion EEC mixed-use proposal
The “Disneyland Thailand” buzz has resurfaced after Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, deputy prime minister and minister of transport, floated the idea of moving ahead with a world-class theme park project in Chonburi under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) scheme.
The concept would take the form of a large mixed-use development, bringing together a theme park, sports center, entertainment venues, and commercial space in a single area. Continued …
Essential Dress Code Guidelines in Thailand
In Thailand, wearing a shirt in public spaces outside of the beach is a fundamental aspect of local social etiquette. While Thai people are generally non-confrontational and may not openly correct you, being shirtless in towns or cities is often viewed as disrespectful and rude.
Outside Beach Areas
Men should always wear a shirt when visiting beachfront establishments, shopping centers, or walking through town. Women should use sarongs or wraps to cover swimwear when leaving the sand.
Temples and Religious Sites
This is the strictest environment. Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees. Sleeveless shirts, tank tops, and shorts above the knee are typically prohibited.
Government Buildings
Modest dress is mandatory when visiting places such as immigration offices or royal palaces.
Driving
It is technically illegal to drive a car or ride a motorbike without a shirt, and you can be fined by local police.
Malls and Restaurants
Entering air-conditioned spaces shirtless or in only a bikini is considered highly inappropriate and offensive to locals. – From I Love Thailand
Cultural Festivals In Thailand Worth Traveling For
When visiting Thailand, a lot of travelers seek out local, community-guided experiences. For a deeper dive into the country’s traditions on your next trip, we recommend aligning your travels with a cultural festival.
Some are anchored to a single day or annual occasion and draw repeat crowds year after year; others are organized around long-standing customs such as Phi Ta Khon, which marks the ordination of young Shan boys as novice monks. In larger cities, these often take a broader approach, actively bringing together local communities and international visitors in settings designed to be both educational and immersive. Continued …
Thailand Can Capture Major Growth Gains by Scaling Up Green Manufacturing: World Bank
Thailand has significant untapped potential to develop advanced green manufacturing as a new engine of growth, with electric vehicles, solar photovoltaic components, and energy-efficient cooling technologies offering opportunities to raise GDP by an additional 2.9% by 2035, according to the World Bank’s latest Thailand Economic Monitor released yesterday.
The report, titled “Advanced Green Manufacturing for Growth,” examines how Thailand can reposition its well-established manufacturing base toward higher value-added green products, leveraging existing strengths in automotive, electronics, and electrical appliances to capture expanding global markets. Continued …
Thailand’s EV sales surge to record levels in January
Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) sales (passenger car and light duty vehicles) more than tripled year-on-year to over 44,000 units in January 2026, a record month for the country. Its penetration rate grew to 48%, another monthly record, surpassing its previous high of 37% set in December.
The significant increase in sales was underpinned by vehicle manufacturers being granted an extension within which to register their vehicles under the Thailand’s EV3 scheme. The previous deadline of December 2025 had been extended to January 2026 in November 2025. Continued …
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IEAT Secures $100-million World Bank Green Loan
The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) has secured a US$100-million (approximately 3,100 million baht) loan from the World Bank to transform the country’s industrial estates into low-carbon hubs.
The funding marks the first phase of a broader US$200-million initiative aimed at decarbonizing heavy industry. Pilot projects at Map Ta Phut and Laem Chabang are expected to cut 2.33 million tons of CO2 over 10 years. Continued …
How southern Thailand is pioneering community-led marine conservation
Thirty years ago, Banjong Naruepornmatee left his hometown in the deep south. A fisher by trade, he now runs a farm stay overlooking mangrove forests he helped replant in Bo Hin, a coastal subdistrict in southern Thailand.
“When I first moved here, there were mangrove forests along the coastline and seagrass everywhere,” he said. “A lot has changed since then.” Trang province is home to the largest seagrass bed along the Andaman coast in Thailand. Continued …
- Chinese Fugitive in Child Sex Case Arrested in Bangkok – Continued …
- German Fraud Suspect Arrested in Pattaya – Continued …
- Vietnamese Woman Held in 300-million-baht Fraud Case – Continued …
Wealthy ‘great relocation’ surges as UAE gains, UK loses
A record-breaking surge in wealthy people “relocating abroad” is reshaping the global balance of power. Countries are increasingly being treated like assets, while citizenship is becoming a tool for diversifying risk. In an era where state policy can change faster than economic fundamentals, capital moves first — and moves more aggressively than ever before. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
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
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is holding the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
From Feb. 8 to 11, a moderate to strong high-pressure system, or cold air mass, from China will cover the upper parts of Thailand, leading to thunderstorms initially, followed by a decrease in temperature and strong winds.
Air quality in Bangkok has worsened, with PM2.5 levels exceeding safe standards, causing respiratory issues. Eastern Bangkok records the highest levels.
Two timebombs were defused at the Pattani bus terminal in Muang district yesterday after they were found hidden a toilet, with authorities saying they resembled previous finds at several petrol stations in the province.
The president of Thailand’s fifth-largest bank has acknowledged the country’s economic challenges following its recent characterization as the “sick man of Asia”, arguing the malaise requires deep structural reforms rather than temporary stimulus, while unveiling a strategy to bolster sustainable finance by 40% to 350 billion baht (US$10.1 billion) by 2030.
TikTok has confirmed its long-term investment plan in Thailand worth 270 billion baht, according to caretaker finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
Thailand’s border trade grew to Bt1.937 trillion in 2025, a 6.7% increase from the previous year, as reported by the Ministry of Commerce. This growth allowed the country to maintain a substantial trade surplus amid regional disruptions. Exports reached BT1.063 trillion, and imports rose to Bt874 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of Bt188.6 billion.
The Gold Traders Assn. reported that gold prices were adjusted 101 times throughout yesterday, with prices falling by Bt2,300 compared with trading on Feb. 4.
Bangkok restaurateur Sorathep Steve said he was told off last Saturday by customers who had just flown in from the United States and ordered a bottle of wine, only to be told of Thailand’s election-linked ban on alcohol.
Thailand enters 2026 at a defining inflection point. Regional travel demand across Asia is rising strongly, yet Thailand’s relative performance is weakening as faster-moving competitors accelerate. The divergence is increasingly clear.
The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) conducted a “Tourism Business Confidence Index” survey in Q4 2025, involving 302 foreign tourists in Bangkok and Chonburi. The survey revealed that while overall safety concerns were moderate, specific issues like scams were highly problematic, and the strength of the Thai baht significantly influenced 90% of visitors’ travel decisions.
Thailand’s Hat Yai picks up the pieces in wake of devastating floods
B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) is positioning clean energy as a game changer for Thailand’s energy transition, accelerating its push into renewables as the country and global industry move toward a low-carbon future.
Bitcoin sank in early Asia trading today, extending a selloff that had already erased all the gains booked by the token since US President Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory. The original cryptocurrency fell as much as 4.8% to a fresh low of US$60,033 this morning, after hours earlier plunging to its lowest level since October 2024, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. It later pared those losses and was up by more than 2% to over $64,400 by 9.12 am in Singapore. 
Australian undercover inspectors have found pubs fail to pour enough beer and other alcohol into customers’ glasses for nearly a third of the drinks they serve. The government sent “secret shopper” officials to 436 licensed venues across the country in October to check if they were filling glasses high enough. Preliminary findings showed 32% of the drinks they served failed to deliver the “correct amount”, said the National Measurement Institute’s audit report released this week. 
In 2026, Thailand is expected to complete one of the most significant transformations in its immigration system, the abolition of passport stamping and the full adoption of a 100% digital immigration platform.
International Living magazine has identified the five most affordable places to live or retire in 2026, which scored the highest in the cost-of-living category of its 2026 Global Retirement Index. It evaluated retirement destinations across climate, healthcare, visa and lifestyle, along with cost.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has detailed a high-stakes strategy to revitalize the nation’s economy, appointing global icon Lalisa Manobal — known professionally as LISA — as its ‘Amazing Thailand Ambassador’ for 2026. The partnership is the cornerstone of an ambitious plan to attract an additional five to 10 million ‘high-quality’ international travelers.
A grayscale sky is showing signs of life over slumbering waves, with sunshine breaking through clouds that had earlier brought steamy tropical rain to the northeast coast of Koh Samui.
Southeast Asia’s solar energy market is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by falling technology costs, strong national climate commitments, and an increasing need for energy security. Recent industry forecasts indicate that the region’s solar capacity is expected to grow from around 38.29 gigawatts in 2025 to over 92.77 gigawatts by 2030, reflecting an annual growth rate of nearly 19.4%. This surge highlights a clear shift away from fossil fuels toward cleaner, renewable energy sources.
President Donald Trump said the U.S. will seize control of Greenland “the easy way” or “the hard way” and warned that he won’t miss out on the opportunity to Russia or China. “We are going to do something on Greenland whether they like it or not,” he said. 
Iran is currently cut off from the outside world. The government has severed internet and telephone lines nationwide, hoping to blind and deafen the international community to the brutality of its crackdown. Yet, the screams of frustration from the streets echo far beyond the digital blackout. This nationwide uprising is a clear signal: the 40-year-old theocratic regime is facing its most catastrophic crisis of faith yet. 
New Tax Rules for Expats in Thailand Spark Concern
Pattaya Begins 3.1 Billion-Baht Underground Power Line Project
Soy sauce candy, pellets cause a sensation at food innovation fair
