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Thursday’s news-June 8

June 8, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Pran Buri Dam water levels reach critical point as drought crisis deepens/
Drought and irrigation issues pose challenges for PKK mango farmers/
Alleged gunman caught after shooting Russian in broad daylight in Phuket/
Urgent need for EV charging stations stressed/
Visa changes block Thai workers from Finnish berry fields/
Thai Owner Shocked: Indian Businessman Illegally Occupied His Buildings In Pattaya/
Economy: Thai economy faces 4 risks in 2nd half: SCB Securities/New government delay seen as threat to growth/Thai economy could face 36 billion baht hit from extreme weather/Japanese data centers expand into Thailand/Exports of Thai air-con parts to US surge 126% in 1st quarter/
Tourism: Tourism expected to keep Thai economy growing despite global headwind/Why 80% of travelers research food and drinks before a trip/Thai tourism campaign targets secondary cities for foreign visitors boost/15 Polish tourists evacuated before their bus was engulfed in flames/New road linking Phuket, Phangnga now complete/Canada loosens visa rule for Thais/
Thailand Experience: The 5 best activities in Central Thailand/Kanchanaburi: A town full of history/Nong Khai: Thailand’s link to Laos/
International: Work begins on 2nd Chinese-invested expressway in Cambodia/IATA sees gradual recovery in Asia-Pacific aviation/Ukraine agriculture crisis looms after dam collapse/World’s largest crocodile celebrates 120th birthday in Australia/
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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Pran Buri Dam water levels reach critical point as drought crisis deepens

Prachuap Khiri Khan is facing an alarming drought situation, as water levels at the Pran Buri Dam have reached critically low levels. Officials have sounded the alarm over the severity of the crisis, prompting urgent measures to address the water shortage affecting the region.

Pran Buri Dam, a vital water source for the area, including for Hua Hin, currently holds only 14%-15% of its total capacity, officials have said. Continued …

Drought and irrigation issues pose challenges for PKK mango farmers

Mango farmers in Prachuap Khiri Khan province are facing significant challenges, as severe drought conditions and inadequate irrigation systems take a toll on their crops.

Throughout the province in Pran Buri, Sam Roi Yot, Kui Buri, and Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan, some 50,000 rai of land is used to grow mangoes for export. Continued …

Alleged gunman caught after shooting Russian in broad daylight in Phuket

Phuket airport authorities arrested a Kazakhstani gunman who alledgedly shot a 44-year-old Russian national in broad daylight. Artur Legey, the 49-year-old suspect, was apprehended at the Phuket International Airport while preparing to flee. The victim was left critically injured in the incident that occurred outside a cafe in Thalang district, Phuket, yesterday.

The Russian man, Dmitri Aleynikov, suffered severe injuries in the Phuket shooting that occurred yesterday. The incident took place in broad daylight, and the perpetrator quickly fled the scene on an unregistered Yamaha motorcycle. Continued …

Urgent need for EV charging stations stressed

With purchases of electrical vehicles on the rise, the insufficient number of EV charging stations across the country is becoming increasingly challenging for drivers.

In an attempt to remedy the situation, the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) has announced that it is planning to collaborate with all car manufacturers to integrate and expand the charging station network. Continued …

Visa changes block Thai workers from Finnish berry fields

Not a single Thai worker has been confirmed to come to Finland for the upcoming picking season, following changes in visa procedures.

“We felt that we have to re-examine our procedures. The police investigations came to light last summer, (referring to the criminal prosecutions and human trafficking suspicions that happened in 2022) and this is the first picking season since that,” Katja Luopajärvi, the deputy head of the visa unit at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Continued …

Thai Owner Shocked: Indian Businessman Illegally Occupied His Buildings In Pattaya

The Thai owner of two adjoining commercial buildings in Pattaya, which he only came to inspect after five years yesterday, was shocked at discovering that an Indian businessman had trespassed and illegally turned the ground floor into a dance club, with the the rooms above rented out.

Supanat Chinnawat, 30, filed a complaint at Pattaya City police station that his two four-story adjoining commercial buildings on Pattaya Sai 3 road on the way to Bali Hai pier had been illegally occupied. Continued …

Thai economy faces 4 risks in 2nd half: SCB Securities

A slowing global economy, electoral uncertainty, rising interest rates, and drought are the four key risks facing the Thai economy in the second half of this year, a senior analyst at SCB Securities said.

Piyasak Manasan, senior vice president of the company’s investment research department, said official figures for the first quarter of this year showed gross domestic product (GDP) expanded faster than expected but not enough to raise full-year forecasts of 3.2% GDP growth. Continued …

New government delay seen as threat to growth

The private sector is concerned that Thai GDP growth could decline to 1%-2% if the formation of the new government is delayed from the timeline by six months or more.

Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, said the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) is monitoring politics and awaiting a new government. Continued …

Thai economy could face 36 billion baht hit from extreme weather

Extreme weather conditions, including drought and floods, could potentially inflict a 36-billion-baht blow to Thailand‘s economy this year, warns the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB). Drought, in particular, is a significant concern, as it may severely affect the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, further hindering the country’s already sluggish exports.

“Manufacturers are worried about drought because it can reduce production capacity and affect exports,” said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), which is part of the JSCCIB. Continued …

Japanese data centers expand into Thailand

Two Japan-based data center providers have invested US164 million (5.5 billion baht) in Thailand to build and expand data centers, cashing in on the trend of digital transformation and the exponential growth of cloud computing.

Telehouse recently opened its first data center in Thailand with an investment of $74 million, while NTT invested 3 billion baht through NTT Global Data Centers Corp. to develop its newest and largest data center in Thailand. The latter’s new Bangkok 3 Data Center (BKK3) is slated to start operations in the second half of 2024. Continued …

Exports of Thai air-con parts to US surge 126% in 1st quarter

Exports of air-conditioner components to the United States surged 126% in the first quarter of this year, compared to the same period last year, the chief of the Foreign Trade Department said on Wednesday.

Ronnarong Phoolpipat, director-general of the department, said Thailand exported US$146.96 million worth of components for air conditioners to the U.S. in the first three months of this year. Continued …

Tourism expected to keep Thai economy growing despite global headwind

The Thai economy is likely to continue to recover despite a slowing global economy due to the strong recovery in the tourism industry, Thailand’s most powerful business lobby group said on Wednesday.

Up to 30 million foreign tourists will visit Thailand this year and the government should launch measures to attract more, including lessening water shortages in areas tourists visit, said the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB). Continued …

Why 80% of travelers research food and drinks before a trip

In recent years, Instagram has been thought to be a significant catalyst for which destinations people gravitate toward when planning on traveling, but a new catalyst is emerging.

According to new international data from Global Food Tourism, 80% of travelers will research food and drinks in a location before heading off on their travels. Continued …

Thai tourism campaign targets secondary cities for foreign visitors boost

Thailand‘s Tourism Authority (TAT) has revealed a significant increase in international travelers visiting the country in the first five months of 2023, with a total of 10,568,485 visitors. In collaboration with Central Pattana Plc., TAT aims to promote local and alternative tourism destinations, targeting a shift in the proportion of travelers from major to secondary cities.

During the first five months of 2023, international tourist visits reached 10,568,485, with 1,972,033 visits in May alone. The top five countries in visitor numbers were Malaysia, China, India, South Korea, and Lao PDR. To stimulate travel to secondary cities, TAT has partnered with Central Pattana to launch the “Go Local, Love Local” campaign. The first phase focuses on four provinces: Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ayutthaya, Ubon Ratchathani, and Chanthaburi. Continued …

15 Polish tourists evacuated before their bus was engulfed in flames

The quick thinking of a 48-year-old bus driver may have saved the lives of 15 Polish tourists on Wednesday morning on one of the busy Bangkok expressways that circle the capital city when he quickly parked his bus and evacuated his passengers after noticing smoke coming from the underside of the bus near the luggage compartment.

Kanchit Kaewmanee had earlier picked up the tourists from a hotel in the Makkasan area of the city and was traveling outbound on Expressway Number 2 near the Kamphaeng Phet Road when the incident occurred. Continued …

New road linking Phuket, Phangnga now complete

The Department of Rural Roads (DRR) announced the completion of the Na Klang-Ao Jik road linking Phuket and Phangnga, which will support local tourism and cross-provincial transport. Continued …

Canada loosens visa rule for Thais

Thailand is among 13 countries newly added to Canada’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) program by its Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser, the North American country announced yesterday.

Travelers who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when traveling to Canada by air, according to the website canada.ca. Continued …

The 5 best activities in Central Thailand

Calling all adventurous souls, culture vultures, and travel lovers! Are you ready for the new chapters through Thailand’s central region? Picture this: vibrant cities pulsating with life, ancient temples whispering tales from the past, and natural landscapes that will take your breath away.

And if you wonder what’s the best thing to do in Central Thailand? Well, it’s a tough one. After all, there are so many things you can do. And, with the help of our friends at TAT and Klook, we’ve compiled the best activities below. Continued …

Kanchanaburi: A town full of history

It felt as if my eyes and skin were on fire while walking down the new 150m-long skywalk in the sweltering midday sun. It was due to my late arrival in Kanchanaburi, but I decided to stick to my original plan.

At least I was rewarded with stunning views of the confluence of the Khwae Yai, Khwae Noi and Mae Klong rivers, set against a backdrop of lush hilly environment and old city walls. Continued …

Nong Khai: Thailand’s link to Laos

Nong Khai is a province located in northeastern Thailand, also known as Isaan. It is situated on the banks of the Mekong River, which forms the natural border between Thailand and Laos. Here are some key details about Nong Khai:

Geography and Location: Nong Khai Province covers an area of approximately 7,325 square kilometers. It is bordered by the provinces of Bueng Kan to the east, Sakon Nakhon to the south, and Loei to the west. Across the Mekong River lies Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Work begins on 2nd Chinese-invested expressway in Cambodia

Cambodia on Wednesday broke ground on the second Chinese-invested expressway connecting the capital Phnom Penh with Bavet City of Svay Rieng province on the border with Vietnam. Continued …

IATA sees gradual recovery in Asia-Pacific aviation

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects Asia-Pacific aviation to gradually recover throughout this year, despite some hiccups in the supply chain and a few Covid travel restrictions still being in place. Continued …

Ukraine agriculture crisis looms after dam collapse

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has not only resulted in devastating humanitarian consequences but also poses a severe threat to the country’s agriculture. Ukrainian officials have warned that the southern region’s fertile lands could transform into deserts as early as next year due to the destruction of vital irrigation systems that rely on the Kakhovka reservoir. Continued …

World’s largest crocodile celebrates 120th birthday in Australia

Australia‘s Marineland Crocodile Park celebrated the presumed 120th birthday of Cassius, the world’s largest captive crocodile. Cassius, measuring 5.48 meters in length, has been a resident of the park on Green Island in Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef since 1984, after being captured in the Northern Territory’s Finniss River for allegedly causing numerous cattle deaths. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

UPDATED: Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing 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

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Tuesday’s News-April 4

April 4, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

New opening schedule for Tamarind Market in April/
Junior golf clinic planned at Royal Hua Hin course/
Cost of diesel to be cut this week amid falling global oil prices/
Fires in Nakhon Nayok under control, focus shifts to park in Chiang Mai/
Sri Lanna park to be made ‘disaster zone’/
Chiang Mai ranks as most polluted city in the world for 9 days running/
Restaurants, real estate drive 18% rise in business registrations/
Man Dies After Bomb Explodes in Krabi/
Suspects in Nonthaburi slaying of female student arrested in China/
37 People Injured After Bus to Phuket Overturns in Chumphon/
Annual motor show bookings surge 35%/
Exports seen contracting 10% in first quarter/
Tourism: Songkran celebrations in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan/Pet-friendly Songkran trip ideas for the whole furry family/Thailand expects tourism revenue to hit 80% of pre-Covid level this year/Samui Negotiates More Direct Flights as Bookings for Songkran Soar/TAT keeping track of impact of Chinese tourists/Chiang Rai skywalk closed for repairs after glass panel shatters/
Thailand Experience: Students from UK high school embark on trip of a lifetime to Thailand/
International: Finland joins NATO as Russian war prompts shift/
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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New opening schedule for Tamarind Market in April

Hua Hin’s Tamarind Market is extending its opening hours over two public holidays in April.

During the Chakri Day weekend, the market will open its doors from 5pm between April 6-9. Over the Songkran holidays, the market will be open from April 12-16.

The nearby Cicada market will be open April 13-16 during Songkran.

Junior golf clinic planned at Royal Hua Hin course

On Wednesday, April 26, a junior golf clinic will be held by some of the competing golf pros at the Royal Hua Hin Thailand Championship coming to the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course on April 25-27. The clinic will be held at the driving range commencing at 4pm.

The MENA (Middle East & North Africa) Tour is hosting the event. Over 70 golf professionals from across the globe have entered the event, with around 100 expected.

This free clinic is open to all aspiring junior golfers, but come before 4pm to register.

Cost of diesel to be cut this week amid falling global oil prices

The domestic diesel price is to be cut to 33 baht a liter this Friday, down from 33.5 baht a liter, as global oil prices keep falling, says the Oil Fuel Fund Office (OFFO).

It will be the fourth in a series of price reductions since early February when the retail price in Thailand stood at 34.94 baht a liter. Continued …

Fires in Nakhon Nayok under control, focus shifts to park in Chiang Mai

After five days of relentless efforts, Thailand’s Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DPDPM) announced Monday that firefighters have succeeded in getting forest fires in Nakhon Nayok province under control.

As a result of the success of the mission, the command center set up to deal with the fires on Khao Laem and several other mountains in Nakhon Nayok has been downgraded to just a local-level center, the task of which is to monitor the situation to ensure that the fires do not reignite. Continued …

Sri Lanna park to be made ‘disaster zone’

Authorities are preparing to declare Sri Lanna National Park a disaster zone due to the ongoing wildfires in the area.

After inspecting the fires yesterday, Chiang Mai Gov. Nirat Pongsitthaworn said the park will be declared a disaster zone due to the nature of the wildfire within the park’s boundaries. Continued …

Chiang Mai ranks as most polluted city in the world for 9 days running

Northern Thailand continues to battle a thick layer of smog, with Chiang Mai being ranked as the world’s most polluted city by PM2.5 rating for nine days in a row, according to the IQAir website.

The highest air quality index (AQI) value was found at the Health Hospital in Ban Khai Hospital in Mae Na Wang subdistrict, Mae Ai district, Chiang Mai province, measuring at a hazardous 411 μg/m3. Continued …

Restaurants, real estate drive 18% rise in business registrations

New business registrations in February this year rose 18.4% to 8,537 compared with the same period last year, though only 0.84% from January, government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said on Monday. He cited a rise in tourism and hotel business registrations as evidence that Thai tourism is rebounding strongly after Covid-19.

New registrations in February were led by construction, real estate, and restaurant businesses, according to data from the Department of Business Development. Continued …

Man Dies After Bomb Explodes in Krabi

A 33-year-old man died after a bomb exploded in Krabi. The Klong Thom Police were notified of the incident on Sunday at a house in South Klong Tom. The Krabi EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) and the Krabi Forensic Police were called to the scene.

The man was later identified as Kampanart Sapjaroen, 33, who had been pronounced dead at the scene. His body was surrounded by many unexploded bombs and the one that had set off. It took more than three hours for the EOD to recover all bombs from the area. Continued …

Suspects in Nonthaburi slaying of female student arrested in China

Three suspects in the gruesome murder of a Chinese student in Nonthaburi have been arrested in China, according to Deputy Police Chief Surachate Hakparn.

Surachate said Thai police coordinated with Chinese authorities to arrest the suspects after discovering that they flew to Chengdu on March 30. He added that Chinese police are interrogating the suspects, who had committed other crimes in their home country before. Continued …

37 People Injured After Bus to Phuket Overturns in Chumphon

Thirty-seven people sustained injuries after a passenger bus from Nong Khai heading to Phuket crashed in the Sawee district.

Emergency responders were notified of the accident on Sunday morning on Asia 41 Road in the Na Poe subdistrict. Continued …

Annual motor show bookings surge 35%

Car and motorcycle bookings at the 2023 Bangkok International Motor Show, which ended on Sunday, rose by more than 35% year-on-year to 45,983 units, thanks to an improving economy and electric vehicles (Evs).

The economic recovery and the government’s policy to promote EVs, which encourages EV manufacturers to introduce electric cars to prospective EV buyers were key factors, said Jaturon Komolmit, vice chairman of Grand Prix International, which organized the event. Continued …

Exports seen contracting 10% in first quarter

Thailand’s exports are likely to show a contraction of 10% in the first quarter of this year from a year earlier, bigger than a previous forecast drop of 8%, the country’s shippers’ council said on Tuesday.

The global economy was slowing and a recovery in China’s economy was not as fast as expected, Chaichan Chareonsuk, chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council, told a news conference. Continued …

Songkran celebrations in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan

Tourism officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan are gearing up for what is set to be a busy month in April.

With the big holiday break approaching, the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan office is encouraging families and tourists to visit and enjoy the beach.

According to Archawan Kongkanat, director of Tourism of Thailand (TAT) Prachuap Khiri Khan office, the organization has prepared a tourism events schedule for the whole month of April. Continued …

Pet-friendly Songkran trip ideas for the whole furry family

Songkran’s a long holiday, and leaving your beloved little ones at home? That just won’t do. Let us show you some of the best places to go on a pet-friendly trip that will take care of everyone, including your furry family members.

When you’re a parent of a furry one, you know it can be quite a big deal to go on vacation. After all, how are they going to survive at home alone? Hotels that are pet-friendly used to be quite hard to come by. But now, you have a lot of choices to choose from across Thailand. Continued …

Thailand expects tourism revenue to hit 80% of pre-Covid level this year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects the country’s tourism sector to generate up to 2.4 trillion baht in revenue this year, or 80% of earnings in 2019, Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said on Monday.

Roughly 880 billion would come from Thai tourists, while the other 1.5 trillion would be from foreigners, he added. However, Thai tourism is experiencing difficulties because airlines had not yet reached their pre-Covid operating capacity, Yuthasak said. Continued …

Samui Negotiates More Direct Flights as Bookings for Songkran Soar

While Koh Samui is gaining popularity during the upcoming Songkran Festival, tourists are having problems with transportation, as many flights are fully booked. The president of the Koh Samui Tourism Assn. has been in talks with Bangkok Airways and Samui Airport to increase the number of flights to meet tourist demand.

With tourism in Thailand recovering, Koh Samui in Surat Thani province, one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, has seen a sharp increase in tourist numbers since Christmas and until this April. Most travelers come from Europe, Singapore and China, crowding the airport and ferry port. Continued …

TAT keeping track of impact of Chinese tourists

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is addressing concerns over the monopolization of foreign tourism businesses and zero-dollar tours, saying that “they are not a concern” as long as strict law enforcement and collaboration with Beijing continues.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn says that his office in China will continue to monitor these issues and ensure that only Chinese tour companies certified by the Chinese government are allowed to send tour groups to Thailand. Continued …

Chiang Rai skywalk closed for repairs after glass panel shatters

If you were planning on standing on the Chiang Rai skywalk in northern Thailand to stare into a thick layer of hazardous dust this week, think again, because the tourist attraction is now closed for repairs after a piece of the glass floor shattered yesterday.

Tourists standing 486 feet above sea level were terrified yesterday when a loud bang erupted from the “Three Lands Skywalk.” One layer of glass inside one panel on the West wing – about 2.5 by 2 meters long – had shattered. Continued …

The UK students will visit Elephant Nature Park and its founder, Lek

Students from UK high school embark on trip of a lifetime to Thailand

Students from one West Norfolk secondary school in the United Kingdom are embarking on a trip of a lifetime as they leave Lynn for a 17-day adventure in Thailand.

The year 12 students from Springwood High School, which is a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, are taking part in a Thailand Global Citizenship Program, which will see them teach children in a Thai school about climate change, as well as spend time caring for rescued elephants at a sanctuary.

The 15 Springwood students, accompanied by three members of staff, flew to Thailand’s Chiang Mai airport on March 24 before transferring to Mae Sariang, where they will be working with pupils at Ban Kupuang (KP) School. Continued …

Finland joins NATO as Russian war prompts shift

Finland will become the 31st member of NATO today, in a historic strategic shift provoked by Moscow’s war on Ukraine, which doubles the U.S.-led alliance’s border with Russia. 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, cha am, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-March 2

March 2, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Old Days Festival at Bluport this weekend/
Cha Am seafood festival set for March 11-18/
Beach Party/Music Festival in Cha Am April 29/
Makha Bucha Day Monday: lots of Buddhism, no alcohol/
Trafficker abandons 106 illegal migrants stuffed inside truck in PKK/
FTI anticipates lower May power tariff/
Lazada Thailand says its e-commerce merchants rose 30% last year/
US serviceman found dead in Thai army barracks in Lop Buri province/
China-Laos Railway has carried 10 million passengers/
Dams constructed by China and Laos on the Mekong pose major problems/
50 elephants ‘addicted to sugarcane’ destroy 2000 rai of crops/
Man arrested with 30 live monitor lizards, large quantity of reptile flesh/
Yes, you can have a lion as a pet in Thailand/
Foreigners flee Thai stocks at rapid rate/
London dogs head to Thailand to sniff out pangolin smugglers/
‘Happy toilets’ on the way at land offices/
The highs and lows of liberalizing marijuana/
How Thailand’s booming cannabis industry can benefit all/
Tourism: Over 7,000 Russians in Phuket apply for visa extensions/Where are rich Russian holidaymakers going to avoid travel sanctions?/Expensive flights to Thailand too hot for Chinese/Taiwanese Tourist Dies After Snorkeling in Krabi/New Zealand Tourist Rescued After Getting Lost in Phangan Island Jungle/German Tourist Rescued After Getting Injured Inside Krabi Cave/Two Russian Kids Back with Parents after Being Lost in Patong/
International: Finnish parliament passes NATO bill with large majority/APEC posts lower economic growth, weaker trade activity/The ultra-rich lost 10% of fortune in 2022/
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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Cha Am seafood festival set for March 11-18

Cha Am will hold its annual seafood festival between March 11-18, with the festival taking place on the viewpoint on Cha Am beachfront.

One of the main highlights of the festival is the wide range of locally caught seafood that will be available for visitors to sample. From grilled prawns and squid to fried fish and crab, there will be something to please everyone’s taste buds.

The festival also features a walking street and night market where visitors can purchase local products and souvenirs. There also will be live music every night.

Beach Party/Music Festival in Cha Am April 29

The NangLay Beach Party and Music Festival will be held at the northern end of the Cha Am beach area, near the Triple Tree Resort on Saturday, April 29.

The non-stop party features many popular artists, including Bright Vachirawit and Nanon, Billkin, Palmy, Potato, Paradox, Joey Boy, Three Man Down, Tillybirds, Paper Planes And Sarah Salola, with a light and sound system throughout the night.

Early ticket sales start on March 31 HERE, in every 7-Eleven store or HERE.

Makha Bucha Day Monday: lots of Buddhism, no alcohol

Next week, Thailand will celebrate Makha Bucha Day, an important religious holiday for Thai Buddhists. The holiday falls on Monday, March 6.

While the day may not hold the same religious significance for non-Buddhists, it is still recognized as a significant day in Thai culture, and for tourists for the banning of alcohol sales.

Makha Bucha Day falls on the full moon day of the third lunar month. Even the massive Full Moon Party in Koh Pha Ngan, which rarely follows the rules and laws, postpones the big event by one day in observance of Buddha Day. Other parties start after midnight when it is technically the next day and drinking is legal again. Continued …

Trafficker abandons 106 illegal migrants stuffed inside truck in PKK

Police discovered 106 illegal migrants crammed into a truck in Prachuap Khiri Khan province yesterday. The driver was nowhere to be found.

A concerned forklift driver rang officers at Bang Saphan Police Station to say that he believed that a “suspicious” vehicle parked on the side of Petchkasem Road was carrying illegal immigrants.

Police arrived to find a six-wheel truck, about 20 meters in size, with a Bangkok registration plate. The truck driver was not there. Continued …

FTI anticipates lower May power tariff

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) expects the new mid-year power tariff, which is used to calculate electricity bills, to not exceed 5 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit) following a drop in liquefied national gas (LNG) prices.

The current rate for businesses, in effect from January to April, is 5.33 baht a unit.

Energy authorities are discussing the adjustment of the tariff, to be imposed from May to August. Continued …

Lazada Thailand says its e-commerce merchants rose 30% last year

The number of retailers using the platform of e-commerce firm Lazada Thailand rose 30% last year, its chief business officer, Thanida Suiwatana, told a press conference on Wednesday.

The company will provide more innovative features and services to attract more shoppers to its platform, Thanida said.

Although she did not provide comprehensive details, she did give some examples. Lazada will make it easier for users to get refunds and accelerate deliveries, Thanida said. Its average delivery time is 1.1 days, she added. Continued …

US serviceman found dead in Thai army barracks in Lop Buri province

Thai police are investigating the death of a U.S. serviceman who was found lifeless in a bathroom of the 31st Infantry Regiment of the Royal Guards barracks in Lop Buri yesterday.

The American was a member of the U.S. force participating in the Cobra Gold 2023 joint exercise, being held in Lop Buri Province.

The body has been sent to the Ananda Mahidol Hospital, where a doctor said that there was a wound to his head. Mueang district police said that they have reported the incident to the Immigration Bureau for further action. Continued …

China-Laos Railway has carried 10 million passengers

The China-Laos Railway operated 20,000 passenger trains and carried 10.3 million passengers by Jan. 31, 2023, according to an update from the China Railway Kunming Bureau Group Co.

The China-Laos Railway, with a total length of 1,035 km, runs from Kunming in China to the northernmost provinces and Vientiane in Laos.

Since the full line was made operational on Dec. 3, 2021, related departments in Laos have scientifically analyzed the travel rules for passengers, constantly enriched passenger transport products, optimized station services, and set up ticket offices in major cities in Laos to extend the pre-sale time. Thus, the China-Laos Railway is able to meet the travel needs of passengers better. Continued …

Dams constructed by China and Laos on the Mekong pose major problems

Video

50 elephants ‘addicted to sugarcane’ destroy 2000 rai of crops

A herd of around 50 wild elephants has migrated into farmland in Loei province in northeast Thailand, destroying 2000 rai of crops so far. There is no sign of them retreating into the forest.

Recently, around 50 elephants migrated into agricultural land in the Phra Kradueng district from the Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary.

No wonder the elephants moved away from their home, given the goodies on offer – the herd has worked their way through entire fields of sugarcane, bamboo, bananas, and cassava, and even chomped on rubber trees. Continued …

Man arrested with 30 live monitor lizards, large quantity of reptile flesh

Wildlife officials and police have arrested a man and seized 30 live monitor lizards (Varanus salvator), 59 lizard carcasses and several live turtles in a raid on an illegal slaughterhouse in Suphan Buri province.

Padet Laithong, director of the Wildlife Conservation Office, said that the meat was being sent to wildlife restaurants in Trat province, falsely identified as tree monitor (Varanus bengalensis) meat.

He also said that officials are investigating a report in social media that the monitor lizard meat might have been sent to customers to turn into meatballs. Continued …

Yes, you can have a lion as a pet in Thailand

Thai media were reporting that you can keep a lion as a pet in Thailand, as long as you have the required paperwork and tell the authorities in good time.

Earlier, a senior Pattaya policemen, vets and park staff, had been alerted to a foreigner keeping a lion at a housing estate in Nong Prue.

Neighbors were terrified that their children might soon be attacked and eaten by the lion – still actually a cub – that was allowed to prowl round the house. Continued …

Foreigners flee Thai stocks at rapid rate

Foreign investors were net sellers of US$1 billion (37 billion baht) worth of shares on the Thai stock exchange in February, the highest value among Asian bourses for the month and the biggest net sell-off on the exchange since April 2020, with several factors pressuring investments, according to analysts.

Foreign investors sold 3.33 billion baht worth of Thai shares on Tuesday, according to LH Securities. The current account deficit reached $2 billion in January, as reported by the Bank of Thailand on Tuesday, prompting continued capital outflows and a further weakening of the baht. Continued …

London dogs head to Thailand to sniff out pangolin smugglers

Two Labrador dogs, which have been trained by British police, are to be flown to Thailand to help crack down on the smuggling of critically endangered pangolins, the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) said on Tuesday.

Pangolins, nocturnal creatures famed for their full armor of scales, are the most trafficked mammal in the world, according to the World Wildlife Fund, and all eight species are on the red list of threatened species and at risk of extinction, the ZSL said.

The two dogs, Buster and Bess, who have already undergone an eight-week training program with London’s Metropolitan Police, will be sent to Thailand to complete their training, and then use their sniffing skills to detect pangolins being smuggled through airports, ports and by road. Continued …

‘Happy toilets’ on the way at land offices

The Health Department and the Department of Lands have teamed up to renovate 461 public restrooms at land offices nationwide to meet health, accessibility and safety (HAS) standards.

During the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the Bangkok Metropolitan Land Office between the two departments, Amporn Chantawibul, a senior sanitary expert of the Health Department, said the project aims to provide hygienic restrooms. Continued …

The highs and lows of liberalizing marijuana

A boom in cannabis businesses has helped jolt the tourism industry back to life, as travelers flock to Thailand for marijuana tourism.

However, decriminalization preceded passage of the legislation needed to control and regulate cannabis, which has led to a free-for-all in the industry, as businesses, many owned by foreigners, invest in cannabis outlets and users buy weed with little or any medical or consumer guidance. Continued …

How Thailand’s booming cannabis industry can benefit all

With the increasing legalization of medical cannabis in many countries, a unique opportunity has arisen for Thailand to use this industry as an engine for positive change. An innovative example is Bloom Thailand using cloning technology to bring education and resources to disadvantaged communities in Bangkok.

Bangkok Community Help Foundation and Bloom sponsored a workshop in the Khlong Toei community to teach cloning techniques for growing vegetables.

The goal of the workshop was to empower the community to cultivate its own food using sustainable methods, leading to greater self-sufficiency. Continued …

Over 7,000 Russians in Phuket apply for visa extensions

Over 7,000 Russians in Phuket are applying for visa extensions in a bid to stay in Thailand. Local immigration chief, Thanet Sukchai, says the great weather is one factor in their attempts to stay.

“Phuket is a nice place to visit, with delicious food and good weather. As word has spread about the island, Russian tourists keep coming to the province.”

Since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24 last year, Thailand has become a refuge for Russian citizens, as reported by Al Jazeera. Continued …

Where are rich Russian holidaymakers going to avoid travel sanctions?

Travel sanctions didn’t stop rich Russians from going on holiday last year, a new report has revealed.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the European Union suspended visas for Russian travelers. But wealthy tourists simply decided to holiday elsewhere.

According to research from flight data firm ForwardKeys, wealthy Russians returned to travel “with a vengeance”. Continued …

Expensive flights to Thailand too hot for Chinese

Expensive flights to Thailand from bigger cities in China are delaying Thailand’s tourism recovery. Most tariffs are still one and a half times more than pre-pandemic prices, while for smaller cities, fares are more than double previous levels.

According to Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn, while most tickets are cheaper than last year, prices for March and April are still higher than before the pandemic in every Chinese city.

Prices of flights from major cities in the mainland are 1.5 times higher, with prices from Shanghai as high as 24,500 baht (US$690). Ticket prices to and from smaller cities – in China a city of 4.2 million like Xiamen is considered “smaller” – are still around double the previous rates, and direct flights are still hard to come by from most transit hubs. Continued …

Taiwanese Tourist Dies After Snorkeling in Krabi

A Taiwanese tourist died after snorkeling at an island in Mueang Krabi.

The Mueang Krabi Police said they were notified of the incident by Krabi Hospital on Tuesday. Yueh Lee, 36, a Taiwanese national, was taken from Hong Island in the Khao Thong subdistrict. He was pronounced dead at the Krabi hospital. A doctor said he died from drowning.

Yueh’s unidentified friend told police that they went to Hong Island for snorkeling. Continued …

New Zealand Tourist Rescued After Getting Lost in Phangan Island Jungle

A tourist from New Zealand has been rescued after he got lost in a forest on Phangan Island in Surat Thani.

The Samui Tourist Police said on Monday they were notified that a 56-year-old New Zealand tourist was missing.

His friends told police that he was missing from a resort at 4am on Sunday. They went out to search for him but failed before they called for help. Continued …

German Tourist Rescued After Getting Injured Inside Krabi Cave

A German tourist has been rescued after she sustained injuries inside a cave in Mueang Krabi.

Emergency responders were notified on Tuesday from a local long-tailed boat operator that a 61-year-old female German tourist fell and injured herself inside a cave.

Rescue workers went into the area with the long-tailed boat before climbing up on a ladder in the natural hall inside the cave, which is more than 10 meters high. Continued …

Two Russian Kids Back with Parents after Being Lost in Patong

Two Russian kids are back with their parents after they got lost near Bangla Road.

The Phuket Tourist Police said on Sunday night at 9:35pm that they were notified by a Russian woman that she had lost her two kids aged four and five years old.

The Phuket Tourist Police, the Patong Police, and the Patong Beach lifeguards searched for the kids along Patong Beach. Continued …

Finnish parliament passes NATO bill with large majority

Finland’s parliament on Wednesday overwhelmingly backed its bid to join NATO. Approval of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s treaties and Finland’s accession passed with 184 members of the 200-seat parliament voting in favor, seven against and one abstaining. Continued …

APEC posts lower economic growth, weaker trade activity

The Asia-Pacific’s economy grew 2.6 % in 2022, a decline from 6.1 % growth in 2021, according to a new report published by the APEC Policy Support Unit. The region’s economy is expected to pick up in the short term with the gross domestic product (GDP) projected to expand by 3.1% this year. Continued …

The ultra-rich lost 10% of fortune in 2022

The world’s ultra-richest saw their fortunes shrink by 10% in 2022, due to the war in Ukraine, a study said Wednesday, but the outlook for them this year is bright. The study, by London-based property consultants Knight Frank, examined the fortunes of what it calls ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs): people with a net worth of at least $30 million, including their main residence. 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

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baht, bangkok, cha am, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-Feb 28

February 28, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Camping Festival at Market Village March 1-10/
‘Dustman’, the Gravel Bike Race this weekend/
Phetchaburi Immigration to move closer to Cha Am March 20/
March flight schedule for Hua Hin Airport/
Radisson Resort & Spa Hua Hin opens its doors/
Baht declines amid volatile markets/
Thailand is home to the most motorcyclists in the world/
Haze problem set to worsen in March/
Elephant time: Have a smile at Thailand’s new elephant heartthrob/
Two Wild Elephants, Mother and Son, Are Rescued – video/
The Problems with Thailand’s Thailand’s Long-Term Visa/
Indian, Chinese Investors Buying Pubs, Restaurants In Pattaya/
‘Wild Boar’ Duangphet to be cremated in England today/New round of state welfare card benefits to cover 14.5 million Thais/Over 52 million Thais eligible to vote during May 7 election/2% fewer drinkers in Thailand since booze controls in 2008/Thai government plans major push to Laos train service/Thailand and China to Expand Free Trade Agreement/Mega-flood ‘likely’ in the next decade/Cobra Gold 2023 officially begins in eastern provinces/
Tourism: Thailand welcomed 2.14 million international tourists last month/Pattaya’s Songkran Day on April 19/Thailand strengthens tourism ties with China/Outbound visa applications in Thailand increase 576%/Expats voice their opinions on Thailand vs Vietnam/
Thailand Experience: High-Quality Cannabis Food Sets a New Standard for Thai Cooking/
Covid: Songkran to test Thailand’s Covid defenses/Hong Kong scraps mask mandate after almost 1,000 days/
International: Exporters fear costs of EU carbon scheme/Antarctic sea ice shrinks to record low/Kremlin ‘drift’? Georgia turns on Russian opposition exiles/Finland moves closer to joining NATO without Sweden/
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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Camping Festival at Market Village March 1-10

‘Dustman’, the Gravel Bike Race this weekend

Phetchaburi Immigration to move closer to Cha Am March 20 – Location

March flight schedule for Hua Hin Airport

Radisson Resort & Spa Hua Hin opens its doors

Radisson Hotel Group has announce the opening of Radisson Resort & Spa Hua Hin, featuring 243 well-appointed rooms and suites, all with modern interiors and balconies overlooking the sea.

Six different accommodation types are available, including family suites with bunk beds and children’s amenities. A full range of leisure facilities includes an outdoor pool with a water slide, a water sports activity hub, a fitness center, spa, skate park and direct beachfront access.

A diverse collection of dining and social venues includes Horizon Restaurant with daily buffet breakfast, JoeKool Terrace Restaurant, which offers an elevated seafront experience with Thai and international cuisine, and JoeKool Pool Bar. The coastal Beach Club & Cabanas offers a long list of freshly caught seafood, barbecued on the spot, plus a regular calendar of uplifting events and entertainment, and the Champions Sports Bar provides cold beverages, light bites and live sports.

With a total of six function spaces, the resort offers a diverse mix of indoor and outdoor locations for business events and social celebrations.

Baht declines amid volatile markets

The baht fell to less than 35 against the U.S. dollar on Monday and recorded its lowest level for two months, after being the most volatile currency traded in the region this year.

The baht opened at 34.93 per dollar on Monday. During day-trade, it weakened to 35.16 against the greenback before closing at 35.10.

Roong Sanguanruang, head of global markets and research at the Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri), said that over the past two months the baht had been the most volatile currency in the region. Continued …

Thailand is home to the most motorcyclists in the world

The Pew Research Center reported that Thailand has the most motorcyclists in the world. Similarly, most victims of road accidents in the country are riding motorcycles.

If you’ve ever visited Vietnam, you might have noticed the abundance of motorbikes on the road, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. It may lead you to believe that Vietnam has the highest number of motorcyclists in the world.

However, a recent report by the Pew Research Center indicates that Thailand takes the lead in terms of motorbike ridership globally. According to the report, 87% of households in Thailand own at least one motorbike, beating Vietnam by only a sliver, where 86% of households own a motorcycle. Continued …

Haze problem set to worsen in March

The Center for Air Pollution Mitigation (CAPM) on Monday revealed that the haze pollution the country faces, especially in the northern region, will likely worsen next month, while Bangkok and its adjacent provinces will likely experience high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

On Monday, the CAPM reported that the air quality in 25 locations across the country is at unhealthy levels, as PM2.5 levels have surpassed the safe threshold of 50μg/m³. Continued …

Elephant time: Have a smile at Thailand’s new elephant heartthrob

“Tula” is a Thai wild elephant calf who has gone viral online due to its mischievous behavior. The rescued juvenile jumbo likes to tease its human babysitter during bath time. Check out Tula’s playful and naughty nature captured in this video.

Tula became separated from its herd at Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary in Chanthaburi province in October last year. Video

Two Wild Elephants, Mother and Son, Are Rescued

Rescue wildlife officers saved two wild elephants, mother and son, that fell into a 5-meter deep hole in the middle of the Forest Protection Conservation Unit Khao Borae, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi, on Monday.

Residents reported to officials at the nearby Lam Khlong Ngu National Park at on Sunday. Officials then prepared the rescue mission with elephant conservation volunteers and rescue workers.

Video

The incident in which the mother elephant and her 2-month-old son fell was a 5-meter sinkhole. Officials prohibited people from being near it because a herd of about 10 elephants was nearby trying to help the mother and son, which could pose a danger to people. Continued …

The Problems with Thailand’s Long-Term Visa

The Thai LTR (long-term residency) visa was introduced in September 2022, but the Board of Investment is currently looking for international investment firms to promote more golden eggs to be laid by wealthy foreigners. There are issues to solve.

Although Thailand promotes its version of LTR, other nations are discontinuing theirs – because immigrants, particularly Chinese and Russians, have been utilizing their resident permits to purchase up desirable houses, causing inflation and making it impossible for less-fortunate citizens to go on the property ladder, Portugal and Ireland recently canceled their 10-year options.

The same sell-out accusations were voiced in Thailand last year, forcing the government to scrap any plans to let wealthy foreigners purchase freehold homes or property in November. Only condominiums are permitted. Continued …

Indian, Chinese Investors Buying Pubs, Restaurants In Pattaya

While many foreigners are investing in Chonburi province, Indian and Chinese investors have channeled the most funds in buying up businesses in Pattaya to cater to their countryfolk holidaying at this seaside tourist city, business people in this province said.

Indian investors bought up pubs and restaurants on Pattaya’s Walking Street before China lifted travel restrictions on Jan. 8, but their investment is not fully integrated as is the pattern of Chinese investors.

Chinese investors have started buying restaurants, three- to four-star hotels and pool villas in Bang Lamung area, Pattaya city and Jomtien beach. Their investment includes chartering tourists attractions to integrate as a comprehensive tourism venture to cater to Chinese tourists, these business sources said, adding that it is likely the zero-dollar tours will return. Continued …

‘Wild Boar’ Duangphet to be cremated in England today

The parents of Duangphet “Dom” Promthep, 18, one of the 12 boys rescued from a flooded cave in Chiang Rai in 2018, will hold a funeral ceremony today to coincide with his cremation in England where he died.

Duangphet, one of the Wild Boar football team members who, along with their coach, was trapped in Tham Luang Cave in 2018 for over two weeks, died in England on Feb. 14, after collapsing in his dormitory room on Feb. 12.

He had won a scholarship to study at Brooke House College, a football academy about 150 kilometers north of London, in August last year, and subsequently flew to England in September. Continued …

New round of state welfare card benefits to cover 14.5 million Thais

About 14.5 million low-income earners will be eligible for benefits under the new round of the state welfare card scheme, the Finance Ministry said on Monday.

The ministry will propose the plan for this year’s first round at a Cabinet meeting today, said minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith.

After approval from the Cabinet, he expects to disburse the benefits from April 1 onward. Continued …

Over 52 million Thais eligible to vote during May 7 election

As many as 52.32 million people are eligible to vote in the upcoming general election, with most voters aged between 42 and 57, social-tracking website Rocket Media Lab learned.

As per the Election Commission’s data, 52,322,824 out of 66,090,475 people across 400 electoral constituencies nationwide are eligible to vote.

Thais have the constitutional right to exercise their ballot once they turn 18. Continued …

2% fewer drinkers in Thailand since booze controls in 2008

The implementation of the alcoholic drink control act 15 years ago has led to a 2% drop in drinkers in Thailand, a seminar was told.

The seminar, titled “Different Views on 15-year Enforcement of the Alcoholic Drink Control Act”, was held on Sunday at Bangkok’s Asia Hotel. It had been organized by Moonlanithi Pua Sukphawa (Foundation for the State of Happiness) and the Network of Creative Media for Social Change.

Associate Prof. Dr. Udomsak Sae-ngow, director of the Research and Innovation Institute for Excellence at Walailak University, said since the act was implemented in 2008, there has been a definite drop in the number of boozers in Thailand. Continued …

Thai government plans major push to Laos train service

The Thai government plans to increase train service between Nong Khai province in Thailand and Thanaleng Station in Laos to 16 round trips a day in two years.

Work on the railway line between Nong Khai and Thanaleng, near Vietniane, was completed on June 30, 2022, and is presently operating, Tipanan Sirichana, deputy spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, said.

Currently, the train service runs twice a day, facilitating easy travel for Thai and Lao people. Continued …

Thailand and China to Expand Free Trade Agreement

Thailand has been stepping up trade cooperation with China by upgrading the free trade agreement (FTA) between China and ASEAN, including expanding mini FTAs with Chinese cities and provinces, Deputy Prime Minister Jurin Laksanawisit has said.

Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit made the announcement at the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce last week.

Jurin said the two countries enjoy practical cooperation under mechanisms including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and mini FTAs between Thailand and Chinese provinces such as Hainan and Gansu. Continued …

Mega-flood ‘likely’ in the next decade

Thailand is likely to suffer from another “mega-flood” similar to the historic inundation in 2011 in the next decade, as climate change will increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events all over the world, a conference was told on Monday.

The director of Climate Change and Disaster Center, Seree Supratid, said at a press conference organized by FutureTales Lab by MQDC and Esri Thailand, that according to climate forecasting models, Thailand is likely to be seriously affected by widespread inundation in the next few years, with up to 34% of about 70 million Thais set to be affected by floods. Continued …

Cobra Gold 2023 officially begins in eastern provinces

Thailand Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Chalermpol Srisawasdi and U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert Godec today presided over the Cobra Gold 2023 opening ceremony at the Royal Thai Naval Airbase, Royal Thai Air Fleet in Rayong province.

Also attending the ceremony were the ambassadors to Thailand from Japan, the Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The Cobra Gold exercise is the largest joint multilateral military exercise in Southeast Asia, co-hosted annually in Thailand by the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. Continued …

Thailand welcomed 2.14 million international tourists last month

Thailand welcomed 2.14 million international tourists in January, data from the tourism ministry showed today. The data showed a small decline from the previous month.

The top three source markets last month were Malaysia with 288,745 tourists, Russia with 202,759 tourists, and South Korea 169,462 tourists.

However, the return of travelers from China, following the removal of Covid-19 restrictions, helped boost the numbers. A total of 91,841 Chinese tourists flocked to Thailand last month, compared with 3,110 in the same period last year. Continued …

Pattaya’s Songkran Day on April 19

Pattaya’s biggest and wettest party officially returns for the first time in four years due to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions.

Songkran, which in one form or another will likely last a bit over a week in Pattaya, will culminate as it usually did, before Covid, with Wan Lai, or the “Big Day” on April 19.

This is, without a doubt, Pattaya’s biggest and wettest party but also polarizing especially to many expats, as hundreds of thousands of domestic and foreign tourists convene on Pattaya. Continued …

Thailand strengthens tourism ties with China

Thailand continues to strengthen tourism ties with China following the high-profile meeting between Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s minister of tourism and sports, and Hu Heping, minister of culture and tourism of the People’s Republic of China, taking place in Beijing on Feb. 21.

Also present at the meeting were Atthayut Srisamut, Thailand ambassador to China, Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing, and Yuthasak Supasorn, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Ratchakitprakarn said, “On behalf of the Thai government and the Thai people, I would like to express our sincere thanks to the Chinese government for its continued confidence in Thailand as a preferred holiday destination, and for including the kingdom among the 20 pilot destinations for the resumption of group travel from China.” Continued …

Outbound visa applications in Thailand increase 576%

Applications for all visa types made between Jan. 1–31 last year grew by 576% when compared with applications made in the same time frame in 2021, reports VFS Global.

The fivefold increase shows that Thais are regaining their sense of adventure amid relaxed global restrictions, although visa applications are still not hitting pre-pandemic figures, reports TNA.

Head of VFS Global Australasia, Kaushik Ghosh, said, “The significant surge in visa applications from Thailand indicates that travelers’ confidence has rebounded faster than expected. With the peak outbound travel season expected to start in March, we expect this momentum to grow further and, therefore, those planning foreign travel outside of Thailand must apply for visas well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.” Continued …

Expats voice their opinions on Thailand vs Vietnam

There are obvious reasons while Thailand has been more attractive to tourists than Vietnam, but many expats also vouched for Vietnam as a nice destination that still has space for improvements.

“I, between Thailand and Vietnam, prefer Vietnam. I find the people in Vietnam nicer, friendlier and more polite. And I find a more genuine environment without seedy places like Thailand’s red-light districts, and I hope I never see them in Vietnam. The problem is that I am retired and eager to stay in Vietnam most of the year, (I like to live in Hanoi from March until mid-December) I am forced every 30 days to fly to Bangkok in order to be able to get a new visa of only 30 days, resulting in financial and time expense. Why not grant a visa of at least 3 months?” – Steve Continued …

High-Quality Cannabis Food Sets a New Standard for Thai Cooking

Think again if you believe that the deliciousness of Thai food cannot be improved. Thai cuisine has changed as a result of the expanding culinary cannabis craze. Imagine combining the advantages of marijuana with the flavors of Thai food. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect marriage?

Thailand made history by legalizing marijuana in June 2022 for both medical and culinary purposes. It took a long time for this historic decision to be made, which represents a major shift in how the nation views marijuana.

The government has allowed companies to sell a variety of cannabis-infused foods by removing marijuana from the list of narcotics that are prohibited for consumption or distribution. Entrepreneurs and chefs can then explore the herb’s potential in novel and interesting ways, while showcasing their culinary creativity. Continued …

Songkran to test Thailand’s Covid defenses

Thai hospitals and community health centers have been ordered to prepare for a spike in Covid-19 infections over Songkran in April and schools reopening in June.

Hospitals have admitted 204 Covid-19 cases in the past week (Feb. 19-25), 66 of whom were suffering severe symptoms, said Public Health Permanent-secretary Opas Karnkawinpong on Monday.

Nine patients died of Covid-19 in the past week, all of them belonging to at-risk groups (over 60 and/or with chronic conditions). Continued …

Hong Kong scraps mask mandate after almost 1,000 days

Hong Kong is scrapping its mask mandate from tomorrow, Chief Executive John Lee announced, ending the financial hub’s last major Covid curb as it seeks to emerge from the pandemic.

The city was one of the last places in the world to require face coverings in virtually all public settings, with everyone over the age of two required to wear one or face a fine of up to HK$10,000 ($1,275).

“I announce that the masking requirement will be completely canceled starting tomorrow, March 1, including for indoors, outdoors and (on) public transportation,” Lee said at a brief press conference today. Continued …

Exporters fear costs of EU carbon scheme

Asian exports could potentially face a higher cost burden as the EU is preparing to launch a new regulation pertaining to imported carbon-intensive commodities later this year, experts say. Continued …

Antarctic sea ice shrinks to record low

Antarctic sea ice likely shrunk to a record low last week, U.S. researchers said on Monday, its lowest extent in the 45 years of satellite record-keeping. Continued …

Kremlin ‘drift’? Georgia turns on Russian opposition exiles

Like thousands of Russians who decided to emigrate after their country invaded Ukraine, Anna Rivina moved to neighboring Georgia. But, a year later, she is no longer welcome. Continued …

Finland moves closer to joining NATO without Sweden

Finland, which has one of Europe’s longest borders with Russia, today kicks off a parliamentary debate aimed at accelerating the country’s bid to join NATO, increasing the likelihood it will leave neighbor and military partner Sweden behind. 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

90-day online reporting