Overpass Project in Prachuap Khiri Khan/Hua Hin couple’s case still in court/Electrical Engineering Congress in Hua Hin/Biggest challenges retirees face in Thailand/Public polled on power rates/Thai baht’s rally is at risk/Bangkok Airways suspends flights/Thailand’s Growing Obesity Epidemic/White Lotus Cast raves about hospitals/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: PM Delays Entertainment Complex/Casino bill’s risky game/Strong demand for luxury condos/Fruit exports produce $6.51 billion/TOURISM: Thailand’s tourism playbook/Direct Flights to US/Songkran music festival/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Samut Songkhram’s mackerel heritage/Waterfalls on Koh Samui/How London fell for Thai cuisine/CLIMATE THAILAND: Green construction to cut emissions/Panasonic plants mangrove forest/February 2025 EV Sales/Growing threat of microplastics/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
Plans Unveiled for 900 Million Overpass Project in Prachuap Khiri Khan
The Department of Highways has revealed plans to build a 3.4-kilometer elevated overpass at the Prachuap Khiri Khan junction, set to improve traffic flow across 14 southern provinces. The project, which carries an estimated cost of 900 million baht, is scheduled to begin later this year.
Yesterday, Prachuap Khiri Khan Gov. Sittichai Sawatsan chaired a meeting to discuss the overpass project, which will be located at the intersection of Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) and Highway 326 (Prachuap Khiri Khan Junction). The meeting was attended by representatives from the Department of Highways, local engineers, and over 80 members of the public. Continued …
Hua Hin couple’s assault case still in the courts
There is much, too much, we do not know about the vicious attacks on the Middlesborough couple in Hua Hin, which have dominated the Thai-UK news channels in recent days. Much of the rhetoric has been devoted to criticism of the Thai legal system and the horrors of being British even before a Thai court has had the chance to hear the evidence.
The initial attack on Des and Mary appears to have occurred in December 2023 after a controversy with neighbors (one Thai and one Brit in some reports) about a land border dispute. Presumably the matter has had some adjudication since the violent neighbors, we are told, initially pleaded guilty to serious assault but later – presumably in mid or late 2024 – changed their plea and accused the Middlesborough couple of “superficial injury and mental anguish”. Continued …
International Electrical Engineering Congress held in Hua Hin
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, organized the 13th International Electrical Engineering Congress 2025 (iEECON 2025) March 5-7 at the Sheraton Hua Hin resort, in collaboration with the Electrical Engineering Academic Assn., Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE Thailand Section, IEEE Power and Energy Society and IEE Photonics Society).
Over 200 papers from 40 universities in 15 countries were presented at the conference, while the keynote lecture was given by Prof. Sheng-feng Qin from Northumbria University, England. Continued …
10 biggest challenges retirees face in Thailand (and how to overcome them)
Retiring in Thailand comes with many benefits, like warm weather, affordable living, and a rich culture. However, it also brings challenges. Retirees must deal with visa rules, healthcare costs, language barriers, and cultural differences. Rising medical expenses, required insurance, and financial planning can also be difficult.
With the right preparation, these challenges can be managed. This article covers 10 common problems retirees face in Thailand and how to solve them for a smooth and enjoyable retirement. Continued …
Public polled on power rates
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is asking the public whether they want to continue with the same electricity rate of 4.15 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit), which is the cheapest of three options for the period from May to August. The current power tariff of 4.15 baht a unit is applicable until the end of April.
The other two options are 4.95 baht a unit or 5.16 baht a unit, which would let ERC allocate more money from electricity bills to the reimbursement of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), PTT Plc and gas shippers, which spent money to help the government subsidize power prices. Continued …
Thai baht’s gold-fueled rally is now at risk, strategists say
Thailand’s currency has received a boost this year from a rally in gold prices. But strategists warn that won’t be enough to protect it as tariff risks and interest-rate cuts start to bite.
The baht is up around 1.2% against the dollar this year, more than double the gain of a broad gauge of Asian currencies. A key reason is Thailand’s role as a gold-trading hub, which has helped lift the currency as the precious metal hit new highs. Continued …
Bangkok Airways suspends northern Thailand flights because of haze
Bangkok Airways has announced the suspension of its Lampang-Mae Hong Son route from March 15 to April 20 due to persistent haze caused by forest fires in northern Thailand.
Mae Hong Son Airport confirmed the cancellation of the only direct service between the two cities operated by Bangkok Airways. The airline, which currently provides the sole air link to Mae Hong Son Airport, operates five weekly flights on the Suvarnabhumi-Lampang-Mae Hong Son route. Continued …
Thailand’s Growing Obesity Epidemic
Thailand is grappling with a rapidly escalating obesity trend, with alarming implications for the health of its future generations. Over the past two decades, the obesity rate among school children has tripled, rising from 5.8% to 15%. The situation is equally concerning among adults, with 42% being categorized as obese by 2020.
These statistics are not just numbers; they represent a plethora of risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, hypertension, and stroke, which claim 400,000 lives annually and account for 74% of all deaths in Thailand. The economic impact is also significant, with the cost of overweight and obesity estimated at 281 billion baht annually, roughly 1.5% of Thailand’s GDP in 2019. Continued …
White Lotus Cast Raves About Thai Hospitals
HBO’s White Lotus has once again taken the world by storm, as the third season of the hit show follows a group of travelers visiting a high-end hotel in Thailand. And it sounds like the cast enjoyed their stay in Thailand – even their hospital visits.
Parker Posey plays wealthy matriarch Victoria Ratliff on the show. And while the cast got rather plush accommodations at the Four Seasons during filming, it sounds like it was the hospitals that left her most impressed. Continued …
- Thai Police Arrest German Linked to Child Porn Network – Continued …
- Four Chinese Nationals Arrested for Illegal Border Crossing from Cambodia – Continued …
- German Man Arrested for Drugs and 377-Day Overstay – Continued …
- Nigerian drug dealer in Phuket arrested – Continued …
PM Delays Entertainment Complex Bill Amid Public Concerns
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced today that the proposed entertainment complex bill is not ready for Cabinet discussion. She emphasized the need for thorough consultation with various stakeholders before proceeding with the project, highlighting its novelty in Thailand and the importance of avoiding hasty decisions.
The government’s cautious approach comes in the wake of ongoing protests near Government House. Anti-casino groups have voiced strong opposition to the bill, threatening to intensify their actions if the Cabinet were to approve it prematurely. Acknowledging these concerns, the prime minister assured that the government will consider all perspectives, aiming for a balanced judgment. Continued …
Casino bill’s risky game
The controversial Entertainment Complex Bill is no gamble. It’s a high-stakes policy with lasting economic and social consequences, so the Pheu Thai-led government, which is sponsoring it, must ensure it is responsibly formulated and not rushed.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s decision not to send the draft to the cabinet shows that the government remains willing to listen to opposing viewpoints. Continued …
Pattaya rebounds with strong demand for luxury condos
Pattaya has long been one of Thailand’s most vibrant real estate markets, attracting both domestic and international buyers. In recent years, the city experienced a remarkable resurgence, driven by the return of international tourists, strong economic growth, and increasing demand for premium beachfront properties.
With more than 22 million visitors arriving in 2024 – an increase of nearly 60% compared with pre-pandemic levels – Pattaya is solidifying its status as Thailand’s second-most-visited city after Bangkok. Continued …
Fruit exports produce $6.51 billion in 2024
Fruit was the most valuable agricultural export last year, with the value of durian shipments surpassing 134 billion baht, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of TPSO, attributed this success to rising demand in global markets and increasing popularity because of Thai fruit’s high quality, variety and unique flavors.
Thailand’s total fruit exports tallied US$6.51 billion in 2024, surpassing the five-year average of $5.86 billion and accounting for 22.6% of all agricultural exports. Continued …
Thailand’s tourism playbook: Big concerts, premium races and more
The government is committed to bringing international events like concerts by world-class artists and MotoGP races to Thailand in order to boost tourism, the tourism and sports minister said yesterday.
Responding to reports that Singapore has successfully closed a deal to host concerts by Lady Gaga in May, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said: “We, too, have a task force responsible for bringing international events to Thailand. Studies have been conducted to identify the funds required and other details, while TAT will prepare a plan to submit to the Cabinet next month. Continued …
Thailand Awaits Final FAA Inspection for Direct Flights to the US
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced that the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is conducting a final inspection to assess Thailand’s progress in addressing previous safety concerns. This step is crucial for Thailand to potentially regain its Category 1 (CAT 1) status, which would allow Thai airlines to operate direct flights to the United States.
Yesterday, CAAT Director-General Manat Choumanapreuk confirmed that FAA representatives, led by Dennis Hill, acting director of the office of Air Carrier Safety Assurance, have arrived in Thailand for the final review taking place through today. This review follows a November 2024 assessment, during which several safety issues were identified and highlighted for correction. Continued …
Songkran music festival set to attract 100,000 Thais
One Asia Ventures, a global leader in music festivals and live events, is investing 250 million baht to host the Siam Songkran Music Festival 2025 for the fourth consecutive year.
Set across 23 rai, this festival is expected to attract 100,000 attendees over four days, up from 70,000 last year. The event aims to generate 300 million baht in revenue, contributing to 1 billion baht in tourism spending during Songkran. Continued …
Diving deep into Samut Songkhram’s mackerel heritage
In the waters of Mae Klong in Samut Songkhram, Thai pla thu, better known as short mackerel, is considered an important commercial fish and a symbol of the province’s culinary culture. This Samut Songkhram’s edition takes you to a local home where the art of mackerel manufacturing has flourished for over 30 years. Video …
7 Must-Visit Waterfalls on Koh Samui
As a popular island in Thailand, Koh Samui is known for its beaches, nightlife, and temples. However, beyond the bustling coastline, the island is home to lush jungles and waterfalls that offer a perfect escape into nature.
Whether you seek a refreshing swim, a scenic hike, or a picturesque picnic spot, Koh Samui’s waterfalls promise a magical experience. Here are seven must-visit waterfalls on the island. Continued …
How London fell for Thai cuisine
“It’s the balance. The sugar, the salt, the sour, the bitter, the spice,” Wichet Khongphoon, chef-patron of Caledonian Road’s favorite southern Thai restaurant Supawan, muses.
Following a year when Thai cuisine ranked fourth in British web searches behind Chinese, Italian and Indian, for Khongphoon, the impassioned and skillful mixing of often contrasting flavors into something harmonious is one factor behind its ever-expanding appeal. Continued …
Thailand urged to adopt green construction to cut emissions
New technologies and standards are essential to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the construction sector, which accounts for 40% of global emissions, said Kecha Thirakomen, chairman of ECC Engineering Network (EEC Academy), on Monday.
Kecha highlighted that Thailand’s construction industry contributes 7%-8% of the country’s GDP, amounting to 1.5 trillion to 2 trillion baht annually. However, it remains a significant emitter of greenhouse gases, making sustainable innovation a pressing priority. Continued …
Panasonic plants mangrove forest in Thai Binh province
In collaboration with the Center for Natural Resources and Environmental Communication (CNREC), under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, 120 Panasonic employees traveled hundreds of kilometers to the Thai Thuy Wetland Nature Reserve, working alongside local authorities and residents to plant 10,000 mangrove apple (Sonneratia caseolaris) trees.
This species is ideal for the Thai Thuy mangrove forest due to its salt tolerance, adaptability to muddy soil conditions, strong root system that prevents erosion, and ability to create habitats for various species, while offering high economic value. Continued …
February 2025 EV Sales: Thailand rises, China Dips
The global electric vehicle (EV) market continued its dynamic evolution in February 2025, navigating seasonal fluctuations and regional policy shifts while maintaining a trajectory of long-term growth. Early data and industry forecasts suggest that worldwide sales of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles reached approximately 1.2 million units in February, reflecting a year-over-year increase of around 15% compared to February 2024.
EV sales in the rest of the world reached an estimated 180,000 units in February 2025, a 45% jump from February 2024. Markets like India, Brazil, and Thailand led the charge, with India doubling its EV share to 7.5% by year-end, per S&P Global Mobility forecasts. Continued …
Growing threat of microplastics: burden on human health
Microplastics have become a significant environmental and health issue in this century. Over the past 150 years, industrialization has led to increased reliance on oil to boost economies, which has, in turn, led to the development of various plastics for building materials and other industrial uses.
In earlier times, there were widespread concerns about diseases like cholera and typhoid. However, with industrial growth, new health challenges have emerged, many linked to air pollution. Recent studies indicate that microplastics, a pollutant created by plastic degradation, are entering human systems, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. Continued …
New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
- The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
- It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm
- Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27
Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):
Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm
Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm
Hua Hin train schedule
Van/minibus service at Market Village
Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:
- Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
- Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
- Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
- Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
- Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)
The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.
Emergency hotline numbers:
- Emergency hotline – 191
- Emergency medical services – 1554
- Water accident – 1196
- Motorway hotline – 1586
- Emergency medical – 1669
- Highway police – 1193
- Tourist police – 1155
- Bus ticket – 1490
- Department of Highways – 1586
- State Railway – 1590
Trump’s Trade Policies Threaten Thai Economy
