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Wednesday’s news-April 10

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Today’s news: When is Hua Hin planning to start rationing water?/What people say about other countries/International Chess Open/Extra caution urged/Thais rank No.1 in Asia/Bt235B to fund health Gold Card scheme/44th in global crime index/Influx of 100,000 Myanmar refugees/Change in sea conditions blamed/Offered bribe to drop lawsuit/Fried wonton pricing sparks uproar/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Baht one of Asia’s worst performers/Restaurant sales set to surge/Caution urged on casinos/Foreign demand for Chon Buri condos/Tourism: Guide to Songkran events in Hua Hin/Prachuap aims for safer Songkran/Water festivities scaled back/Cabinet suspends filing of TM6 cards/Koh Samui Promoted/Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in Phuket/Smoking on flights/Environment: Haze control effort ramps up/Chiang Mai again world’s most polluted/Thailand Experience: Most Beautiful Cities in Thailand/Secret to an authentic Thai salad/International news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Hua Hin train schedule/Market Village bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

When is Hua Hin planning to start rationing water?

On April 6, the Hua Hin Water Department put out a notice announcing the “immediate” rationing of water, with water available only between 5am-10:30am daily. The rationing was announced on April 8. It is now April 10 and the water is still running.

So, what’s going on? Did “immediate” mean sometime this month? Is the decision to start rationing being delayed because of the Songkran holiday?

We asked the government for details but they still have not responded. We are particularly interested in whether hotels, resorts, restaurants and water parks would be included in the water rationing. These are all heavy water-using businesses, with many depending on the tourist dollars a vibrant – and wet – Songkran would provide.

One resort we asked about the water rationing said it was “buying extra water from wherever we can”, and that trucks were delivering water daily. “Quite a hassle but it is what it is.”

A cynic might think the government is holding back until after Songkran, fearing that water rationing would ruin Songkran in Hua Hin, and all the money it provides. Given how protective local officials (and some farang) are of Hua Hin, this would not be a surprise.

We hope, however, the government is not sacrificing people’s lives because of a holiday.

Comments to: aim@hhexpatnews.com

What people say (ignorantly) about other countries

Wherever you live, you’ve heard people make some wild comments about your country. Here are a few comments when asked, “What’s the most ignorant thing a tourist has said about your country?”

“When visiting LA, I was chatting with a girl at a party, and when she asked where I’m from, I told her London. She then said, ‘Omg, I hate London.’ I was slightly confused and asked if she’d ever been, and she said ‘No.’ I was like, ‘Okay, nice chatting with you!'”

“I knew someone who was shocked that we don’t live in stone cottages and thought Ireland was like a developing world country.”

“‘Where do you keep the Vikings?’ An American tourist visiting Denmark asked. I left him very confused and a little disappointed by telling him the truth about Vikings and that we did, in fact, not have reservations or anything.”

“I overheard an American woman saying that she was surprised at how well we Australians spoke American, although the accent made it a little hard to understand.”

“I met an American once who was under the impression that suburban Canadians all lived in wood cabins in the wilderness. At first, I thought he was kidding. Then he asked if we had winters all year round and was astonished to learn we have lengthy summers.”

You really cannot make this stuff up. Have a great day! 

Hua Hin to host International Chess Open April 13-21

The BCC (Bangkok Chess Club) International Chess Open & Challenger moves into it’s third decade with the 21st edition to be held April 13-21 at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa.

Successful chess events are often identified with the driving force behind it and so Kai Tuorila has become synonymous with this BCC Open, not only the founder but also the chief organizer and tournament director, and who is often also seen to be the de facto chief arbiter. Continued …

Extra caution urged amid hot conditions

The Public Health Ministry is urging all members of the public to take precautions against the searing heat, which is expected to linger for the next couple of weeks, after reports of two deaths over the past two days due to suspected heatstroke.

With daytime temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in many areas, more people are susceptible to heatstroke, which can cause organ failure and even death, said Public Health Permanent Secretary Opas Karnkawinpong on Tuesday. Continued …

Thais rank No.1 in Asia for number of sexual partners

The World Population Review website published its 2024 ranking for the average number of sexual partners by country, unveiling that Thai individuals have the highest number of sexual partners in Asia.

The ranking was compiled based on surveys conducted in 46 countries on how many sexual partners a person has in their lifetimes. The World Population Review stated that the numbers are related to the cultural norms. Continued …

Cabinet agrees to Bt235B to fund health Gold Card scheme

The cabinet approved a Bt235-billion budget for 2025 fiscal year to fund the universal health security scheme (Gold Card) for the Thai population, under which each citizen will be entitled to medical coverage worth an average of Bt3,844.55.

The new health security budget is an increase of 9.53% over the 2024. The bulk of the money, about 181 billion baht, will go to the universal health security scheme for about 47 million Thais. Continued …

Thailand ranks 44th in global crime index

Thailand is ranked 44th in the Global Organized Crime Index, highlighting issues like human trafficking, arms trade, and copyright infringement. These challenges hinder cooperation within ASEAN and call for urgent action. Thailand is labeled a “hub” in these illicit activities, emphasizing the need for joint efforts.

In the 2023 Global Organized Crime Index by GI-TOC, Thailand scored 6.18, placing it 44th globally, 18th in Asia, and 7th in Southeast Asia, up from 2021’s 56th place. Continued …

Thailand braces for influx of 100,000 Myanmar refugees

The escalating conflict in Myanmar has prompted Thailand to prepare for the potential influx of 100,000 displaced individuals, as stated by Foreign Affairs Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-nukara.

The announcement came before a Thai Cabinet meeting aimed at discussing the intensifying situation in their neighboring country. Parnpree urged all parties involved in the conflict to pursue peace negotiations. Continued …

Sudden change in sea conditions blamed for sinking of HTMS Sukhothai

More than a year after the sinking of HTMS Sukhothai, a Rattanakosin-class corvette, in the Gulf of Thailand off Prachuap Khiri Khan province on the night of Dec. 18, 2022, the Thai Navy has blamed a sudden, unexpected and extreme change in weather and sea conditions for the foundering of the vessel and the deaths of 24 officers and men. Five are still unaccounted for.

The Sukhothai was only rated for navigating in seas of up to a maximum of 4 meters,” he said, adding that the 6-meter waves made it impossible for the captain to control the vessel, eventually resulting in its sinking. Continued …

Thai doctor offered bribe to drop lawsuit in Swiss scandal

The Thai doctor who was a victim in the Swiss scandal case in Phuket revealed that an unidentified person offered her and her family a bribe in exchange for withdrawing the lawsuit against the Swiss man.

The female doctor took to social media and accused the Swiss man, Urs Fehr, of physically assaulting her by kicking her in the back. The incident took place outside Fehr’s luxury villa on the beach near Yamu Cape in the Thalang district of Phuket on Feb. 24. Continued … 

Street vendor’s fried wonton pricing sparks uproar

A recent social media post sparked a debate about the fairness of food pricing after a woman paid 50 baht for less than 10 pieces of fried wontons from a street vendor. The post, which quickly went viral, led to a flurry of comments from netizens astonished by what they deemed an exorbitant cost for such a meager serving.

The customer recounted their surprise upon receiving the order, which contained no filling, just crispy fried wonton wrappers. “I’ve had fried wontons at many places, and they usually come with a pork filling. This time at a familiar eatery where I’d never ordered fried wontons before, the dish was just that: fried wontons, no filling, just crispy.” Continued …

  • Phuket hotel evicts foreigner who threatened taxi driver with knives – Continued …
  • Russian Man Arrested in Phuket with 351 Days of Overstay – Continued …
  • Chinese Man Arrested for Illegally Entering Thailand, Working as Guide – Continued …
  • British man fined 5,000 baht for naked stroll on Krabi beach – Continued …
Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Thailand’s currency one of Asia’s worst performers

Thailand’s currency may extend its recent declines to test support at last year’s low amid growing pressure on the central bank to cut interest rates, according to the U.S. website Bloomberg.com.

The currency has already dropped almost 7% since the start of January, making it one of Asia’s worst performers, and putting it less than 1.4% away from October’s low of 37.237 per dollar. Some analysts see that level being tested if the Bank of Thailand trims its benchmark today. Continued …

Thai restaurant sales set to surge despite economic lull

A trade group predicts a boost in restaurant sales during the second quarter, which could potentially surpass pre-pandemic levels, despite the current stagnant economy.

Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the Thai Restaurant Assn., noted that although the second quarter is typically a slow season for the Thai restaurant industry, the Songkran festival is expected to stimulate sales. She pointed out that Thailand’s sluggish economy is a significant risk factor to keep an eye on. Continued …

Caution urged on entertainment complexes housing casinos

Ninety-nine academics have joined in opposition to the entertainment complexes for which the House of Representatives approved a study on March 28. The study will address illegal gambling issues and the economic benefit of such complexes, which would house casinos as well as other facilities.

In their statement, the academics said gambling is not considered an activity that generates production because it merely involves transferring money from the pockets of losers to the pockets of winners, and in casinos, the winners are the owners. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Foreign demand for Chon Buri condos outpaces Bangkok

The tourism industry’s recovery and the ongoing development of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) gave a significant boost to the real estate industry in the eastern province of Chon Buri last year, the Government Housing Bank’s Real Estate Information Center (REIC) said on Monday.

The most outstanding growth was seen in the sale of condominiums to foreign buyers, said REIC Director Wichai Wiratkapan, noting that 5,935 condo units in the province were transferred to foreigners last year, accounting for 41.1% of all condo units bought by foreigners nationwide. Continued …

A guide to public Songkran events in Hua Hin

Despite the current severe water shortage and imminent water rationing, Hua Hin is gearing up for a vibrant and larger-than-ever Songkran festival, which will take place between April 11-13. Songkran is, of course, the traditional Thai New Year, originally observed as a three-day national holiday from April 13-15.

The traditional activities are the pouring of scented water onto sacred Buddha images and the palms of one’s parents, as well as the famous water-splashing activity. But for many people and in many parts of the country, Songkran means three days of water fights. Continued …

Prachuap aims for safer Songkran

As is customary this time of year, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province has unveiled a new campaign dedicated to the prevention and reduction of road accidents.

Gov. Somkid Chanthamrik inaugurated a new operation center on April 9 at the provincial hall, marking the start of a campaign to enhance road safety and traffic management from April 11-17. Continued …

Songkran water festivities scaled back

Despite earlier announcements, the traditional water-splashing activities during the Songkran festival in Thailand will not run throughout the entire month-long celebration, according to Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Tourism and Sports Minister.

The minister clarified that although the festival activities were scheduled from April 1 and set to end by the month’s close, water-splashing was not part of the whole duration. Continued …

Cabinet suspends filing of TM6 cards at 12 checkpoints until Oct 15

The Cabinet resolved on Tuesday to suspend the filing of TM6 arrival/departure cards at 12 land and sea checkpoints, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said.

He said tourists arriving via land or sea at 12 checkpoints, including the Sadao border checkpoint in Songkhla province, will not be required to file TM6 cards from April 15 to Oct. 15. He added that the suspension of TM6 cards will make it more convenient for foreign tourists to enter the country. Continued …

Koh Samui Promoted for Top 10 Most Attractive Islands Worldwide

Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Thai Tourism and Sports Minister, has revealed a Thai government policy to enhance Koh Samui to be one of the top 10 most attractive islands worldwide. Recently, the Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin inspected Koh Samui, and Surat Thani, and discussed with locals regarding tourism and the economy.

Srettha aimed to have Koh Samui ranked in the top 10 globally most attractive islands. The Tourism and Sports minister, president of the Koh Samui Tourism Promotion Assn., and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would integrate to publicize its local identities, including delicacy and the way of life, according to Sudawan. Continued …

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s opulent family holiday in Phuket

Ever wondered how Hollywood’s elite enjoy their family vacations? Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie show us how it’s done with their opulent getaway in Thailand.

The power couple, along with their brood of six, Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne, are basking in luxury at the Amanpuri beach resort in Phuket, where they’re shelling out a jaw-dropping 828,000 baht per night. Continued …

  • Thai woman sparks backlash for vaping on Chiang Rai flight – Continued …
  • Two Estonians fined for smoking on Finnair flight into Bangkok – Continued …

Haze control effort ramps up as Songkran approaches

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has instructed Chiang Mai and every province in the upper north to prepare their operation centers to handle the haze situation in order to ease air pollution during the upcoming Songkran festival when a rise in the number of tourists is expected.

The centers, each led by the provincial governor, are expected to become fully operational today, said Deputy Prime Minister and Natural Resources and Environment Minister Phatcharavat Wongsuwan. The governors are also tasked with keeping the public and media abreast of the local situation regarding hazardous dust pollution. Continued …

Chiang Mai again world’s most polluted city

Chiang Mai led other cities as the most polluted place in the world on Tuesday morning, as thick smog continued to plague the northern region.

Chiang Mai municipality regained its spot as the most polluted city with fine dust levels recorded at 203 micrograms per cubic meter, according to IQAir rankings. The weather monitoring website labeled the city “very unhealthy”, and it could continue into today and beyond. Continued …

10 Most Beautiful Cities in Thailand

Thailand, a land of breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage, boasts an array of cities that captivate visitors with their stunning landscapes, vibrant traditions, and architectural wonders. From the bustling metropolis of Bangkok to the tranquil islands of the south, this Southeast Asian nation offers an unforgettable travel experience.

Hua Hin: A Seaside Escape for Royalty

A popular seaside getaway for Thai royalty, Hua Hin combines the charm of a traditional beach town with modern amenities. With its long stretch of pristine beach, the city offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Continued …

What’s the secret to an authentic Thai salad?

“You always want to be hitting the four Ss, which are sweet, salty, sour, and spicy,” says Sebby Holmes, head chef/patron of Farang, a Thai restaurant in north London. “If you have a balanced combination of all those things, people are going to love it.”

Spring brings with it a host of new veg and salad leaves, so you’ll want a nice, fresh dressing to match. Nahm jim would be just the ticket, Holmes says: “In a mortar, pound coriander root – or, if you can’t find it, some coriander stems – garlic, long red or green chillies (or bird’s eye, if you like more heat, or a combination of the two), and a bit of salt, to make a paste.” Continued …

Heat turns Philippine classrooms into ovens

Teachers said even with four, or even more electric fans, the heat is really intolerable and is already affecting learning, especially in classrooms where 30 to 40 students are cramped. According to data, the heat index hit 46ºC in Daet, Camarines Norte on Feb. 7. The day before, the highest level was recorded in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, with the heat index reaching 44ºC. Continued …

Parents of US school shooter given up to 15 years in prison

The first parents convicted in a U.S. mass school shooting were sentenced to at least 10 years in prison Tuesday as a Michigan judge lamented missed opportunities that could have prevented their teenage son from possessing a gun and killing four students in 2021. Continued … 

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin Chiang Mai flight schedule May 4-June 14

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday

  • Chiang Mai–Hua Hin, 10:20am–11:50am
  • Hua Hin Chiang Mai, 12:20pm–13:35pm

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

  • Chiang Mai–Hua Hin, 9am–10:30am
  • Hua Hin–Chiang Mai, 11am–12:15pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

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.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

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

Saturday’s news-Feb 24

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Today’s news: 650,000 treated for PM2.5-induced illnesses/Hua Hin, Army deal with possible drought/Prachuap port considered for land bridge project/Nameplate, Buddha Image Retrieved/Universal health coverage expands/Irish mobster escapes to Thailand/Economy: Taxes slashed for booze, pubs/Thai growth outlook trimmed/400/day minimum wage approved/Thai exports in January/Bangkok Port relocation could hit exports/Chinese automakers top three EV brands/Benefit rise for elderly, disabled/Tourism: Top trending spa destinations/New drop-off lane at Don Mueang/National park earns over Bt260M/Thai Airways records recovery/Environment: Leader in green energy/Battle Against Rampant Wildfires/Forest Fires Threaten Chiang Mai/Sugarcane leaves for power generation/Thailand Experience: Most luxurious hotels on Koh Samui/International news/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

650,000 people treated for PM2.5-induced illnesses so far this year

More than 650,000 people have received medical treatment for illnesses caused by air pollution since the beginning of this year, particularly related to PM2.5, according to the Ministry of Public Health.

Of these, more than 300,000 had respiratory diseases, about 80,000 heart and brain diseases, over 110,000 eye infections and irritations, and over 140,000 had skin infections. Continued …

Too little rainfall in Hua Hin, Army asked to help address possible drought

In a step toward combating the looming threat of drought in Hua Hin, local municipal officials have reached out to the Army Non-Commissioned Officer School for assistance in supplying water to the area.

This move comes in the wake of warnings about potential water scarcity in the coming months due to insufficient rainfall in the past wet season. Continued …

Prachuap port considered for land bridge project

Yesterday, a delegation led by Jane Namchaisiri, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Industry, visited Prachuap Khiri Khan Province to evaluate the potential integration of Prachuap Port with the proposed $28-billion land bridge project.

This ambitious project aims to create a direct transportation link across Thailand’s narrow south, offering an alternative route for cargo ships that currently navigate the longer passage through the Malacca Strait and Singapore. Continued …

email: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Nameplate, Buddha Image Retrieved From Sunken Navy Ship

On the second day of a light salvage mission undertaken by United States and Thai navies to remove armaments and other objects from HTMS Sukhothai, which capsized and sank in stormy seas late 2022, killing 24 sailors with five others missing, the corvette’s nameplate, a Buddha image and some documents were brought to the surface.

Video 

Deployed in the 20-day joint U.S.-Thai light salvage mission in the sea off Prachuap Khiri Khan are HTMS Rattanakosin, which is of the same type as the U.S.-built, Ratanakosin-class corvette that sank, the Thai Navy’s minehunter HTMS Bang Rachan, and landing craft HTMS Mannai and the U.S. Navy’s tugboat Ocean Valor. Continued … 

Universal health coverage expands to eight more provinces

The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme is set to empower members with unprecedented healthcare options across eight additional provinces.

Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew, heading the National Health Security Board, announced the green light for expanding the UHC digital health platform. This expansion encompasses provinces such as Phetchabun, Nakhon Sawan, Sing Buri, Phang Nga, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Sa Kaeo. Continued …

Irish mobster dodges law with escape to Thailand

An Irish mobster has fled to Thailand in an attempt to evade the long reach of the law in his Emerald Isle homeland.

The mobster, along with his brother, swiftly departed from Ireland after authorities cracked down on their illegal drug trafficking operation. While one brother is reportedly holed up in Dubai, the other has sought refuge in the Land of Smiles. Continued …

Taxes slashed for booze, pubs

The Excise Department has cut tax rates for alcohol and nightlife venues, effective on Friday, in a bid to boost tourism and domestic spending.

Department Director-general Ekniti Nitithanprapas said that the new tax rates are in line with measures approved by the cabinet on Jan. 2, which are intended to promote Thailand to become a tourism hub. Continued …

Analysts trim Thai growth outlook

Despite two anticipated interest rate cuts this year, analysts are downgrading Thailand’s economic growth outlook, citing lower tourism revenue and increasing uncertainty surrounding the digital wallet policy.

BofA Securities, a unit of Bank of America, cut its Thai GDP forecast this year from 3.7% to 2.6%, as it no longer assumes the 500-billion-baht digital handout policy will be launched. Continued …

400/day minimum wage approved for some

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn on Friday confirmed a second rise in the minimum wage to 400 baht per day for some professions and provinces, which he said is a Songkran gift for Thais.

Phiphat said next Tuesday the terms of the new hike would go before a government subcommittee, which will forward it along with their own revisions to the full committee the same day. Continued …

Thai exports in January see highest growth in 19 months

Thailand’s exports in January expanded for the sixth consecutive month, totaling US$22.6 billion (815.7 billion baht), and growing 10% year on year. Ministry of Commerce permanent secretary Keerati Rushchano said on Friday that the growth in January was the highest in 19 months, since June 2022.

However, the country’s imports totaled $25.4 billion (914.9 billion baht) in January, an increase of 2.6% year on year, with a trade deficit of $2.7 billion (99.2 billion baht), according to the official. Continued …

PM warns Bangkok Port relocation plan could hit exports

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Friday poured cold water on plans to relocate Bangkok Port out of the city, warning of disruption to exports.

Asked about the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s proposal to move the port, Srettha told reporters covering his visit to City Hall that relevant agencies should carefully consider all the factors. He also remarked that Thailand’s biggest port, Laem Chabang in Chonburi province, is currently being expanded. Continued …

Chinese automakers top three EV brands for Thai buyers in 2023

Chinese automakers were the top three electric vehicle (EV) brands for Thai people last year, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

BYD was the top choice with the highest number of new EV registrations in Thailand at 30,467, followed by Neta (12,777) and MG (12,462). U.S.-based Tesla and another Chinese brand, Great Wall Motor (GWM), were fourth and fifth, with 8,206 and 6,746, respectively. Continued …

Benefit rise for elderly, disabled

A subcommittee under the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security has agreed to enhance welfare benefit programs for the elderly, babies and the disabled, marking a significant step in improving the well-being of these groups.

Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said that under the proposed scheme the elderly would receive a flat rate welfare payment of 1,000 baht a month, instead of the current rate, which varies between 600-800 baht depending on their age. Continued …

Top trending spa destinations for 2024 unveiled. Thailand ranked 18th

In 2024, SpaSeekers.com’s latest research highlights the top spa destinations. Romania takes the lead, witnessing a 233% surge in spa trip searches. The study also pinpoints France, China, and Canada as standout spa destinations within the top 10 sought-after locations.

For many people, the start of the year comes with a refreshed bank of annual leave days, which provides the perfect opportunity to do some holiday planning, while dreaming of some summer sun during the cold winter days. For those who are looking for the ultimate relaxing getaway in 2024, and some serious self-care time, a destination spa break may be just what the doctor ordered. Continued …

New passenger drop-off lane at Don Mueang airport to help ease traffic

Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport will open a new passenger drop-off lane in front of Terminal 2 building from March 1 for taxi and personal vehicles to drop airport users off, in a bid to help reduce traffic congestion at the front of the domestic passenger terminal.

The new passenger drop-off lane is one of the measures to be put in place before Songkran Festival in April when the airport expects a spike in users, airport Director Wijit Kaesaithiam said on Friday. Continued …

National park in Krabi earns over Bt260M in entry fees in 4 months

Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi has generated more than 260 million baht in entry fees in less than four months, owing to the continual increase in the number of tourists visiting the popular island attraction.

From October last year to Thursday (Feb. 22), park officials have collected 267,500,382 baht in entry fees from 126,398 tourists, park chief Yutthaphong Damsrisuk said on Friday. Continued …

Thai Airways records recovery with US$782 million profit in 2023

Thai Airways International witnessed a significant rebound in its earnings following an increase in air travel demand. The airline reported a net profit of 28.1 billion baht (US$782 million) in 2023, a substantial recovery from the 272-million-baht loss experienced in the previous year.

This is the second-highest annual net income recorded by the company, surpassed only by the 55-billion-baht profit in 2021, primarily attributed to an 81.5 billion baht gain from debt restructuring. Continued …

Thailand’s potential to become leader in green energy

Thailand will become the leader in green energy in Southeast Asia and one of the world’s top five green economies, Thailand’s trade representative and adviser to the Prime Minister ML Chayotid Kridakon said on Thursday.

His confidence is based on the government’s framework for the country’s transition to clean power, which will see Thailand rely on more than 50% renewable energy by 2040 from a variety of green sources, including solar cells. Continued …

Northern Thailand’s Battle Against Rampant Wildfires: A Crisis Unfolding

As the sun rises over the verdant landscape of northern Thailand, a veil of smoke threatens to overshadow the natural beauty of this region. The recent outbreak of wildfires has put an estimated 1 million rai (160,000 hectares) at risk, marking a critical environmental and humanitarian crisis.

This isn’t just a story of fire and smoke; it’s a narrative about the delicate balance between nature and human activity, and the efforts to safeguard a region’s ecological and cultural heritage. Continued … 

Forest Fires Threaten Chiang Mai’s Air Quality Amid Rising Temperatures

Imagine waking up to a hazy morning where the air tastes of ash and the sun is a mere smudge in the sky. This is not the opening scene of a dystopian novel but the reality for the residents of Chiang Mai as they face an environmental crisis.

Forest fires raging at the base of Doi Suthep mountain are not only a direct threat to the flora and fauna but have also catapulted the region’s air quality to hazardous levels, raising alarms about health and safety. Continued …

Sugarcane leaves being used for power generation

Mitr Phol Group reinforces the company’s sustainable development by continuing the purchasing of sugarcane leaves program from sugarcane farmers, enhancing the value of agricultural waste.

For more than six years, the program has promoted green sugarcane harvesting, utilizing sugarcane leaves as raw material for bio-power generation. Mitr Phol Group stands as a pioneering force in the development of renewable energy production processes, harnessing sugarcane leaves as a primary fuel source for biomass electricity. Continued …

The most luxurious hotels on Koh Samui

When you think of Thailand, what springs to mind? If it’s palm fronds, sugar-fine sand and sunrise yoga overlooking the ocean, you’re picturing Koh Samui.

The most postcard-perfect Thai island, Samui is for many the gateway to a life-long obsession with the Gulf of Siam: the first destination in what will become a never-ending list of trips. Whether it’s the forthcoming third season of The White Lotus (currently being filmed on the island), or a simple Google search of gorgeous Thai beaches that has inspired you, you’re about to plan a trip we’re certain won’t disappoint. Continued …

Germany joins legal cannabis club

German lawmakers on Friday approved a government plan to liberalize rules on cannabis, paving the way for the country to decriminalize limited amounts of marijuana and allow members of “cannabis clubs” to buy it for recreational purposes. Continued …

AI frenzy pushes Nvidia value to $2 trillion

The market value of Nvidia hit $2 trillion on Friday, riding on an insatiable demand for its chips that made the Silicon Valley company the pioneer of the generative artificial intelligence boom. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

chiang mai, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, real estate, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Feb 22

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Today’s news: ‘Land-based border run’/Elderly care in Thailand/Thailand braces for 38-degree heatwave/Improving quality of living of Thais/Thai-US mission launched/5,000 Nurses To Be Trained/Prehistoric animal fossils unearthed/‘No’ to gender recognition/Many cops in serious debt/Ban on recreational cannabis by year-end/Changing the cannabis culture in Thailand/Economy: PM outlines his vision/Businesses complain about minimum wage hike/150,000-strong work force for EV industry/Tax incentives for electric commercial vehicles/Tourism: Thai airlines ask for more flights/Southern Thailand room revenue surge/Phuket: “a resort town on the Black Sea’/Environment: Accelerate green energy transition/Thai island powered almost 100% by solar/Chiang Mai songthaew goes cool/International news/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

Want to make a ‘land-based border run’?

Lately, on social media, there have been a number of inquiries about “land-based border runs” from Hua Hin. Ranong, and a brief trip to Myanmar, is probably the closest to Hun Hin, although one could also go to northern Thailand to exit to Myanmar or Laos.

As a public service (this company is not a current sponsor of Expat News), we offer this border run service.

Do you need elderly care and want to retire in Thailand? A real life scenario

Craig McAvenue lives in Pattaya and Bangkok and is the wealth management director of Tenzing Pacific  Services, providing financial services, insurance, pensions and advice. In this video, he shares his experience of bringing his father to Thailand to be cared for in a Thai care home. Video 

Thailand braces for 38-degree heatwave with potential thunderstorms

Thailand faces a scorching day, with temperatures peaking at 38 degrees Celsius, and scattered thunderstorms in some areas, the Meteorological Department warns. The latest weather forecast anticipates strong southerly and southeasterly winds affecting the northeastern, lower central, and eastern regions of the country, creating the potential for thunderstorms in these areas.

In the period from Feb. 24-26, a high-pressure system or cool air mass from China is expected to extend over Vietnam and the South China Sea. Meanwhile, upper Thailand will experience hot weather in many areas. Continued …

Government shortlists measures to improve quality of living of Thais

The Social Development and Human Security Ministry aims to offer more privileges to newborns, children, the elderly and people with disabilities in a bid to improve the quality of life of Thai citizens.

Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said the ministry’s subcommittee for state welfare promotion approved four measures during the meeting on Wednesday: Continued …

Thai-US mission launched to find remains of missing HTMS Sukhothai crew

The Thai and U.S. navies launched a joint operation today to search for the remains of five crew missing from the sunken HTMS Sukhothai corvette, to salvage some weaponry and to disable some U.S.-made military equipment.

A U.S. Navy ship, the “Ocean Valor”, from the U.S. naval base in Hawaii, and a flotilla of Royal Thai Navy (RTN) vessels, including the Rattanakosin, two mine sweepers, two frigates and one mid-sized troop carrier, 17 American and 40 Thai divers are involved in the operation. Continued …

5,000 Nurses To Be Trained In 2 Years Amid Severe Shortage

Amid a critical shortage of 50,000 nurses nationwide, the Public Health Ministry is now launching an urgent course to train 2,500 of them a year over two years for a total of 5,000 starting next year.

Public Health Minister Chonlanan Srikaew said senior officials had approved a proposal from Praboromarajchanok Institute and the Nursing and Midwifery Council to quickly train more nurses. Continued …

Three distinct prehistoric animal fossils unearthed in Khon Kaen

A new discovery has surfaced in the Tambon Muang Wan region of Nam Phong district, Khon Kaen, as fossils of three different prehistoric animals have been unearthed. This comes as an addition to the previous findings in the same area.

The analysis of the collected fossils is being undertaken by a team led by Sasa-On Khansubha, a palaeontologist affiliated with the Sirindhorn Dinosaur Museum in Kalasin. Preliminary results hint that the fossils could belong to a carnivorous dinosaur with a diet consisting of fish, a herbivorous dinosaur, and a marine species. Continued …

MPs say ‘no’ to gender recognition bill

Parliament on Wednesday rejected the draft bill for legal gender recognition, title, and protection of gender-diverse people, with 154 votes in favor, 257 against, one abstention, and one vote not cast.

The bill was proposed by Move Forward party-listed MP Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat and his associates on the basis that currently there is no specific law to recognize and protect the human dignity, rights, freedom, and equality of gender-diverse people. Continued …

Many cops in serious debt

Many police have fallen into debt totaling some 300 billion baht and most are on the verge of bankruptcy, said National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol.

He was commenting in response to questions posed by the House committee reviewing the 2024 annual budget expenditure bill. Continued …

Email: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Health ministry wants ban on recreational cannabis by year-end

The government wants to ban recreational use of cannabis by the end of this year, Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew said on Wednesday, threatening to put thousands of marijuana shops and farms that have sprung up around the country since a decriminalization drive two years ago out of business.

Thailand will seek to get a new cannabis bill — which will explicitly outlaw recreational use of cannabis — approved by lawmakers in the lower house by the end of October, before parliament goes into recess, Dr. Cholnan said in Bangkok. That will follow a review by the cabinet next month, he said. Continued …

How High Times wants to change the cannabis culture in Thailand

Cannabis has been legal in Thailand for almost two years now. However, many still see the plant in a negative light. High Times, a weed dispensary in Bangkok, is on a mission to change this negative perception.

Founded by Canadians, they seek to bring the positive changes witnessed by cannabis legalization in their home country to Thailand. They say that by helping people understand the health benefits of cannabis, they can help break down the stigma associated with it. Continued …

PM outlines his vision for Thailand’s development

Continued …

Businesses complain – again – about minimum wage hike

Continued …

Higher education ministry vows to prepare 150,000-strong work force for EV industry

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation intends to prepare a work force of at least 150,000 people to work in the electric vehicle industry within five years. The workforce development plan is part of the ministry’s comprehensive strategy to support Thailand’s EV ecosystem.

The ministry announced that the strategy was aimed at helping the kingdom reach its goal of making 30% of vehicle production in the country zero-emission vehicles by 2030. Continued …

Businesses given new tax incentives for using electric commercial vehicles

The National Electric Vehicle Policy Committee (EV Board) has agreed to grant tax concessions to businesses that procure electric buses and trucks, an official said.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the office of the EV Board, said on Wednesday that the board has also given the go-ahead to new measures promoting the use of e-buses and e-trucks in a bid to reduce carbon emissions and help Thailand achieve its net-zero goal. Continued …

After public outcry over domestic rates, Thai airlines ask for more flights

Six Thai airlines have asked for authorization to expand domestic flight operations during peak holiday periods, responding to widespread public fury over exorbitant airfares.

Representatives from Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, and Thai Vietjet convened with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) yesterday to delve into strategies for curbing fare hikes. Continued …

Southern Thailand sees room revenue surge due to European visitors

The southern provinces of Thailand are experiencing a boost in room revenue in the first quarter, thanks to extended stays by European visitors. This increase has occurred despite the lesser number of tourists from China. Room rates have reached a new high.

Hotels in Phangnga Province, particularly in Khao Lak, are charging higher room rates, between 6,000 and 10,000 baht (US$167 and 278) per night, surpassing the average of 5,000 baht (US$139) in 2019, a peak tourism year for Thailand. Continued …

Phuket turning into ‘something resembling ‘a resort town on the Black Sea’

“War, huh, yeah, what is it good for …” asked Edwin Starr in 1970, as fighting raged in Vietnam. The answer, according to the chart-topping song, is “absolutely nothing” – but that’s not completely true.

War is great for those who don’t have to fight it but do benefit from owning shares in weapons manufacturers. And in the case of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, in particular, it’s good for the tourism industries in countries such as Thailand and North Korea. Continued … 

Industries must accelerate green energy transition: FTI

Thai industries should accelerate the transition to green energy, as it can only be to the country’s advantage to attract green, future and sustainable investors, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) Chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul, told the Thailand Energy Executive Forum in Bangkok.

As the industrial sector is among the largest emitters of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming, the sector is calling for clean energy at an affordable price to reduce operational costs, mitigate impacts on the environment and boost trade competitiveness. Continued …

This Thai island is powered almost 100% by solar

Koh Jik, a small island, has successfully transitioned to solar. And has won several awards as one of the most sustainable villages in the region. Video 

Chiang Mai songthaew goes cool with air-con and PM2.5 filters

In a novel move to revolutionize local transport, a Chiang Mai songthaew driver has transformed the iconic red car into an air-conditioned oasis, complete with a PM2.5 filter system. This innovative service has become a hit among both Thai and international tourists, leading to a significant booking queue.

The traditional songthaew, a ubiquitous sight in Chiang Mai, has long been a favorite mode of transportation for its ease of use and availability. Continued …

2023, the warmest year on record

2023 was the warmest year on record. The latest Copernicus Climate Change Service highlights that February 2023 to January 2024 was the first time that we experienced 12 consecutive months of temperatures 1.5 degrees hotter than the pre-industrial era. Continued …

Malaysian currency at lowest level since 1998 crisis

The Malaysian ringgit continues to trade near its lowest level since the 1998 Asian financial crisis, prompting the central bank to say it does not reflect the improving outlook for the economy. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

bangkok, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Feb 19

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Today’s news: Air quality to improve/Thailand braces for intense heat/Cross Country Race returns/Dengue fever on the rise/Fuel dispensers’ accuracy/Thailand’s democracy ranking drops/Highest bile duct cancer rate/What is a liver fluke?/Mo Chit 2 closes arrival area/Salvage of sunken HTMS Sukhothai begins/Average IQ level of Thais/Wild tiger lurks/Private ownership of lions/Military’s business activities/Economy: Thailand’s economic challenge/GDP expands at 1.9%/Thailand’s large informal economy/Delays to key EEC infrastructure projects/Tourism: Medical Coverage Won’t Always Apply/Airport battles long queues/Environment: Thailand’s Forest Fire Standoff/Mekong projects threaten livelihoods, wildlife/Phuket’s Green Revolution/PTTGC looks to recycling/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

Email: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Air quality in most of the country to improve for a week

Bangkok and 37 other provinces are still facing high levels of PM2.5 airborne pollution, but the situation is expected to improve tomorrow through next Saturday, the Pollution Control Department reported yesterday.

Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) reports that, during the first two weeks of this month, 113 people visited the city’s eight air pollution clinics seeking treatment for pollution-related symptoms, compared to 100 during the same period last year. Continued …

Thailand braces for intense heat with temperatures soaring

Thailand is bracing for a severe heatwave, with weather maps turning a deep red, verging on black, indicating extreme temperatures are on the way. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts this year to be hotter by approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius compared to the previous year.

Some areas may experience highs of up to 44.5 degrees Celsius. The five provinces expected to be hardest hit are Mae Hong Son, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Tak, and Udon Thani. Continued …

Ang Puang Thung Kham Cross Country Race returns

The second edition of the Ang Puang Thung Kham Cross Country Race will take place on March 3.

The event, known for its commitment to environmental preservation, aims to raise significant funds for forest conservation efforts while promoting health and tourism in the region. Continued … 

Dengue fever cases in Thailand on the rise

Dengue fever is on the rise, with a total of 13,126 cases, including 12 fatalities, being reported so far this year. This is a 2.2-fold increase over the same period last year, according to Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, director-general of the Disease Control Department.

Of this year’s cases, 3,776 were children aged from 5 to 14, followed by 3,072 in the 15 to 24 age group, and 2,350 cases in the 25 to 34 age group. Most of the fatalities were people over 65 years old. Continued …

Petrol stations’ fuel dispensers’ accuracy standards to tighten

The Internal Trade Department of the Commerce Ministry is set to tighten the accuracy standards for fuel dispensers at petrol stations. The new directive seeks to lower the margin of error to ensure that consumers receive fair and accurate fuel measurements. The department expects to enforce the new criteria within the next one to two weeks.

Chakra Yodmani, the department’s deputy director-general, stated that the directive came from Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who tasked the department with revising the margin of error for fuel dispensers. Continued …

Thailand’s democracy index ranking drops due to unelected government

The yearly Democracy Index compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has seen Thailand’s ranking fall by eight places, a change largely ascribed to the latest government formation by unelected senators rather than voters.

The EIU placed Thailand in the 63rd position among 167 countries and territories in 2023, a drop from its 55th position in 2022. The country’s score also saw a decrease from 6.67 to 6.35 points. Continued …

Thailand battles highest bile duct cancer rate in Southeast Asia

Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew has revealed that Thailand has the highest rate of cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) among the ASEAN nations. The minister announced this worrying statistic at an event commemorating World CCA Day in Maha Sarakham. The primary cause of this cancer is identified as liver fluke.

Thailand, being the Southeast Asia nation with the highest prevalence of CCA, is focusing on efforts to eliminate and treat existing CCA cases across 30 high-risk provinces. To achieve this, the health ministry is collaborating with several agencies, launching a comprehensive screening program for liver flukes in individuals aged over 15. Continued …

What is a liver fluke?

A liver fluke is a parasitic worm. You can become infected after eating contaminated raw or under-cooked freshwater fish or watercress. Infections are usually treated with a drug called triclabendazole. After liver flukes have been ingested, they travel from your intestines to your bile ducts in your liver, where they then live and grow.

Bangkok’s Mo Chit 2 bus terminal closes arrival area

Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak), or Mo Chit 2 as it is commonly referred to, has announced the closure of its arrival area from March 1. The decision is part of a broader initiative to enhance passenger safety and curb the activities of illegal motorcycle taxis targeting travelers.

The government and the Transport Ministry had previously instructed Transport Co,, the operator of the terminal, to upgrade Mo Chit 2’s services before the Songkran holidays in April. As part of the response, the terminal’s arrival zone was shut between 8pm and 4am earlier this month. Continued …

Joint Thai-US operation to salvage sunken HTMS Sukhothai begins

A joint operation to salvage HTMS Sukhothai, which tragically sank approximately 35 kilometers off the coast of Prachuap Khiri Khan on Dec. 18, 2022, will kick off this Thursday, as announced by the Thai and U.S. navies. The vessel was victim to a fierce storm that led to its sinking.

Rear Admiral Veerudom Muangjin revealed Saturday that the operation will involve 40 Thai naval officers stationed on HTMS Rattnakosin, alongside two mine-sweeping boats and a medium-seagoing watercraft. The U.S. contribution will consist of the Ocean Valor and 17 marines from Hawaii’s Mobile Dive and Salvage Unit. Continued …

Average IQ level of Thais is ranked 5th in ASEAN and 64th globally

According to the World of Statistics, the Japanese have the highest IQ in the world, ranking first with a score of 106.48. Thailand is ranked 64th globally and, in the ASEAN region, it comes in fifth place behind Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

The information from the World of Statistics cites research on IQ in 2009 by Richard Lynn and David Becker. Taiwan comes close to Japan with a ranking of 106.48 followed by Singapore with an average IQ of 105.89. Continued …

Wild tiger lurks near Kamphaeng Phet village

A wild tiger prowling the vicinity of a village in Kamphaeng Phet sparked serious concerns among locals, prompting the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) to dispatch a team of officials and veterinarians to capture the big cat.

The tiger was sighted in the forest adjacent to Kariang Namtok village in Khlong Lan Pattana of Khlong Lan district, according to DNP Director-general, Atthapol Charoenchansa. Continued …

Thailand’s private ownership of lions raises safety concerns

The private ownership of wild animals, notably lions, has come under scrutiny in Thailand following several incidents where these creatures were observed in public areas. The issue has sparked widespread concern among the public regarding safety and animal welfare.

The first case surfaced in January when a lion cub was noticed in the back seat of a fancy convertible in Pattaya. Simultaneously, another cub was spotted wandering in a residential area in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri. Continued …

Military’s business activities in the crosshairs

There has been a growing focus on military land and commercial welfare projects over the past five years. With the Pheu Thai Party now in power and the Move Forward Party (MFP) leading the opposition, scrutiny of these lucrative assets and operations has intensified.

Race courses, boxing stadiums, golf courses, hotels, and radio and television stations are thought to be significant revenue streams for the armed forces and are commonly referred to as off-budget funds. Continued …

Thailand’s economic challenge: short-term relief vs long-term structural woes

The 5-2 vote by the Thai central bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to hold the key policy rate at 2.50% is a hint of an impending rate cut at their next meeting, according to some economists. The MPC decision in January disappointed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and his aides, who had been forcefully arguing for the rate cut.

Srettha, who is also finance minister, said that he could not interfere with the Bank of Thailand (BOT)’s independence. Two of the MPC members voted for a rate cut because inflation has been negative and economic growth has slowed down. Continued …

Thai 2023 GDP expands at 1.9%, slower than expected

Thailand’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew 1.9% in 2023, the National Social and Economic Development Council (NESDC) said today, as higher tourist numbers and private consumption were undercut by falls in manufacturing and public spending.

The weaker-than-expected growth raises the case for an interest rate cut at the Bank of Thailand’s next policy review on April 10, after it left the key rate steady at 2.50%, the highest in more than a decade, in a split vote. Continued …

Banker calls to rein in Thailand’s persistently large informal economy

With nearly half its GDP off the books or in the dark, a top banker has called for moves to rein in the country’s black economy. Thai Bankers Assn. President Phayong Sriwanich, this week, made the call.

It comes with Thailand’s economy in the doldrums and facing significant challenges. These include external geopolitical threats and mounting concerns also about political instability inside the country. At the same time, the country’s manufacturing base faces a plethora of chronic ills. Continued …

Delays to key infrastructure projects in EEC discourage foreign investors

Foreign investors are reluctant to invest in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) because of delays in some major infrastructure projects, among them the high-speed train linking U-Tapao, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, according to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and government sources.

The high-speed train project has been delayed for four years, since the signing of the contract between the SRT and Asia Era One Co. in 2019. Continued …

Medical Coverage For Foreigners Won’t Apply to Many Incidents

Last week, the Thai government announced something that seemed to go under the radar of many of our readers and the media, perhaps drowned out a bit by the parole of Thaksin Shinawatra or never-ending U-turns on the status of the cannabis draft law.

(Editor: We have to take exception to the news being “drowned out” in the media. Thailand providing health insurance for foreign tourists has been reported almost everywhere around the world.)

That something is medical coverage for foreign tourists, with some conditions. Get a recap of the official press release from the Thai government PR department here before reading further if you aren’t sure what we are referring to. Continued …

Bangkok airport battles long queues, faulty tech

Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, Thailand’s busiest, is facing daily traffic congestion as vehicles compete for parking spaces. The problem is compounded by long queues at immigration and baggage claim areas due to inoperative kiosks and staff shortages.

Tourist complaints prompted an unannounced visit from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who has since ordered airport authorities to quicken procedures to under 30 minutes per passenger. As the country welcomed 3.03 million foreign visitors last month, a rise from the previous year’s 2.1 million, the pressure on airports has increased significantly. Continued …

Thailand’s Forest Fire Standoff: A Clash of Conservation and Tradition

In the verdant expanses of the western forest complex in Thailand, a tense standoff unfolds between a small community in Sri Nakarin Dam National Park, Kanchanaburi, and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

This group, numbering around 50, has defied officials’ attempts to quell forest fires, invoking constitutional rights from 1963 and even threatening violence against state agents. This defiance comes amid a larger crisis, with 250 firefighters deployed and 1,600 hectares of precious forest land already consumed by flames. Continued …

Mekong basin developmental projects threaten livelihoods, wildlife

An expert in sustainable growth and fair use of natural resources has warned that lives and livelihoods along the Mekong Basin could be in jeopardy as a result of developmental projects. The 14,000-rai Wiang Nong Lom in northern Thailand, a shared resource and home to a multitude of freshwater species, has long been a haven for local wildlife.

Now, however, the swamp valley has become the site of the Wiang Nong Lom Large Natural Water Resources Development Project, sparking concern among local communities. Continued …

Phuket’s Green Revolution: A Journey Toward Carbon Neutrality and Eco-Tourism

In a groundbreaking move that sets the stage for a revolution in eco-tourism, Energy Absolute Public Co. (EA) and the Federation of Thai Industries Phuket (FTI Phuket) have inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) destined to transform the picturesque island of Phuket into a beacon of sustainability.

This partnership earmarks a strategic initiative to propel Phuket onto the global stage as a world-class eco-tourism prototype destination. With an ambitious agenda to promote sustainable tourism and industries, the collaboration is poised to steer Phuket toward achieving carbon neutrality, illustrating a compelling narrative of environmental stewardship fused with economic innovation. Continued …

PTTGC looks to recycling and bio-based products

PTT Global Chemical Plc (PTTGC), Thailand’s largest petrochemical producer by capacity, is joining state efforts to build a sustainable future for the country by focusing on bio-based products and recycling businesses.

The company, originally established as a commodity-grade polymer maker, has shifted toward making bioplastics and recycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles over the past decade, as the global trend for environmental protection grows. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Sept 14

Today’s news: Officials discuss tourism initiatives/Hua Hin ‘Reminiscing the Past’/Miss Thailand World in Hua Hin/Mrigadayavan Palace 3-day reopening/Navy To Retrieving HTMS Sukhothai/American man faces dilemma/Pita named an emerging leader/Surprise python visit/Cabinet takes steps to ease cost of living/Digital wallet scheme/To keep VAT at 7%/El Niño effect/Government’s plans to court China/Digital industry to contribute 30%/Sena’s energy-efficient homes/Bangkok Gems fair dazzles/Visa-free entry for Chinese/Thailand welcomes nearly 18.5M/Pattaya hotel industry shines/Chiang Mai Airport expansion/Noodle as tourist attraction/Shoe Gets Stuck At Airport/Baby Turtles Emerge on Koh Tao/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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Hua Hin officials discuss tourism initiatives

On Tuesday, the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Tourism Development Committee convened to chart the course for a new era of tourism throughout the region.

Officials unveiled a slew of initiatives aimed at stimulating the economy, creating jobs, and positioning Prachuap Khiri Khan as a premier tourism and business events destination. Continued …

Hua Hin ‘ Reminiscing the Past’ event Sept 22-Oct 1

Hua Hin will host the annual “Hua Hin, Reminiscing the Past” event Sept. 22-Oct. 1 to promote tourism and spotlight the cultural traditions of the region. The event wkill be held at the event grounds behind the BluPort Shopping Mall.

This year’s event will celebrate Hua Hin’s rich history, traditions, and the unique way of life enjoyed by locals.

Miss Thailand World beauties in Hua Hin

The Avani+ Hua Hin Resort recently played host to the contestants of Miss Thailand World 2023. The Miss Thailand World 2023 competition revolves around the empowering theme of “Real Beauty Empowers.” The fortunate contestant who will be crowned as Miss Thailand World 2023 stands to win a cash reward of 1 million baht, a diamond crown, and a car. (More photos) – HHT

Mrigadayavan Palace 3-day reopening Oct 13-15

The historic Mrigadayavan Palace in Cha Am will temporarily reopen to the public for three days Oct. 13-15. The palace has been undergoing restoration since 2021 and is set to officially reopen in May 2024

The can be viewed Oct. 13 from 1:30-4:30 pm, and on Oct. 14-15 from 9am-4:30 pm.

Admission fees are as follows:

  • Adults (both Thai nationals and foreigners: 90 baht per person
  • Higher education students and teachers: 60 baht per person
  • High school students and their teachers: 30 baht per person
  • Elementary school and kindergarten students, young children, teachers, priests, monks, the elderly, and people with special needs are encouraged to make a donation.

Navy Confirms Retrieving HTMS Sukhothai From Sea Off PKK

The Navy yesterday confirmed it is going ahead with its project to retrieve a sunken corvette from the Gulf of Thailand sea floor, while categorically dismissing allegations of non-transparency over it.

Navy spokesman Adm. Pokkhrong Monthatpalin said the Navy Fleet based at Sattahip will certainly have the sunken HTMS 442 Sukhothai retrieved by a private firm from the bottom of the sea off Prachuap Khiri Khan, though six bidders had earlier failed to meet specifications under the 200-million-baht project’s terms of reference. Continued …

American man faces dilemma as Thai girlfriend’s parents demand 1 million baht dowry

An American man asked netizens for advice on what to do after his Thai girlfriend’s family demanded a million baht dowry, known as sinsod in Thailand. He said he loved her very much but was not a foolish farang.

The American shared his story on the social media platform Reddit. The man began by explaining that he was dating a Thai university student from a province in the Isaan region of Thailand. He expected that his girlfriend did not make much money from her career after graduation but her parents are middle class and own a shipping company. Continued …

Pita named an emerging leader in TIME100 Next list

Move Forward leader and prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat is the only Thai to make it to Time magazine’s “TIME100 Next” list for 2023.

The U.S.-based magazine on Wednesday published this year’s list of emerging leaders from around the world who are shaping the future and defining the next generation of leadership, in a campaign that has been held annually since 2019. Continued … 

Late-night drive in Bangkok takes a twist with surprise python visit

A woman’s late-night drive took a slithery turn when a python surprised her by emerging from the engine compartment after she returned from a meal. At around 1am today, emergency services from the Thung Mahamek Fire Station were called to a parking lot in front of a convenience store in the Yan Nawa district of Bangkok.

The woman had been driving back from a meal with friends at Lang Linchi Road when the incident occurred. The driver, and identified only as Monchanapath, was shocked to see a python’s head emerge from the front of her black Mazda2 car. Continued …

Cabinet takes steps to ease cost of living, sets dates for visa-free scheme

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin set up a committee on Tuesday to oversee the implementation of his government’s much-publicized 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme. The committee will be chaired by the premier himself in his capacity as finance minister, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said.

In the policy statement delivered to Parliament on Monday, the Pheu Thai-led coalition had stated that the 10,000 baht digital wallet handout would not be a burden on the country’s public debt and would adhere to stringent financial discipline. Continued …

Digital wallet scheme could take a decade to pay off, economists warn

The government’s digital wallet scheme will most likely help Thailand’s GDP reach 6% next year, but the effect will be short-lived and will saddle the country with a massive amount of public debt for nearly a decade, Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) warned on Wednesday.

The warning was made as the EIC released its third-quarter revised report on Thailand’s economic growth outlook for the year. Continued …

Cabinet agrees to keep VAT at 7% for another year

The Cabinet decided yesterday to retain the 7% value-added tax (VAT) rate on goods and services until Sept. 30, 2024, to stimulate economic recovery through spending on consumer products and services.

Keeping it at 7% will be a relief for consumers and businesses alike, who were worried that VAT might rise to 10%, which would impact spending by consumers. Continued …

El Niño effect: Industries in hot water as mining and livestock hit hard

El Niño’s weather anomaly is triggering a ripple effect on industries beyond just agriculture, with mining and livestock sectors also feeling the pinch. This is according to a new study by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, which warns that the phenomenon may lead to a surge in prices for consumer goods, energy, and inflation, compounded by an increase in international shipping costs.

The director-general of the office, Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, expressed concern over the potential harm El Niño could inflict on Thailand’s agricultural sector. The report suggests that a decrease in income from agricultural and agro-industrial exports is on the horizon, with the mining and livestock industries already seeing adverse effects. Continued …

Government’s plans to court China ignores economic realities

In economics and diplomacy, decisions can’t be made lightly — especially when they have far-reaching implications for a country’s economic and geopolitical stability. Yet, Thailand’s new government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin appears to be taking an ill-advised gamble by tying the nation’s economic future primarily to China.

This strategic move is especially concerning given the precarious state of China’s economy and its increasingly ideological governance under Xi Jinping. Continued …

Digital industry predicted to contribute 30% of GDP by 2027

The Office of the National Digital Economy and Society Commission (ONDE) is predicting that Thailand’s digital industry will contribute as much as 30% of the country’s gross domestic product by 2027, adding that next year it intends to focus on promoting cloud-based infrastructure to ensure achievement of this target.

ONDE Secretary-general Putchapong Nodthaisong on Wednesday announced the office’s operational strategy for 2024, saying that it would fully support the “Go Cloud First” policy of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES). Continued …

Property developer Sena takes big strides toward energy-efficient homes

Real-estate company Sena Development (Sena) is building “zero energy” houses in line with Thailand’s environment-friendly, sustainable trends.

The company’s Managing Director Kessara Thanyalakpark said on Wednesday that people are now more focused on preserving the environment, and many parties are working on achieving sustainable goals. Continued …

Bangkok Gems fair dazzles with record-breaking success

The 68th Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair, which recently concluded, surpassed all anticipated outcomes. The fair took place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) Sept. 6-10 and welcomed almost 40,000 attendees hailing from 117 countries, a notable 44% surge compared to the previous event, according to Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, the director-general of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP).

The fair was particularly appealing to international participants, with India, Myanmar, China, Sri Lanka, the United States, Japan, Pakistan, Vietnam, Russia and Australia making up the top 10 countries represented. Throughout the five-day event, the estimated trade value hit 3.3 billion baht, surpassing the initial target. Continued …

Thailand approves visa-free entry for 5 months for Chinese

Thailand’s new government Wednesday approved a measure granting temporary visa-free entry to Chinese tourists, signaling that the recovery of the country’s tourism industry is a top economic priority.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the visa exemption, which will also apply to visitors from the Central Asian nation of Kazakhstan, will be effective from Sept. 25 until Feb. 29 next year. He said the relevant authorities had been consulted to ensure they are ready to handle the expected surge in travelers. Continued … 

Thailand welcomes nearly 18.5 million tourists in 2023

Nearly 18.5 million foreign tourists have visited Thailand so far this year, with the Malaysians leading the way. Of the total number of foreign tourists to visit the kingdom this year, 3 million were Malaysian.

According to the tourism ministry, revenue from tourist spending stands at more than 775 billion baht. It’s forecasting a total of 28 million foreign visitors to the kingdom this year, with a big surge predicted during the peak end-of-year holiday season. Continued …

Pattaya hotel industry shines amid European gloom

Despite Europe’s deteriorating economic forecast, Pattaya’s hotel industry remains robust, backed primarily by Asian and domestic tourists, says the managing director of LH Mall and Hotel (LHMH). Pattaya, traditionally known for its nightlife, has successfully rebranded itself as a family and business-friendly destination.

As the European Commission revises the Eurozone’s growth outlook and Germany faces a potential recession this year, LHMH Managing Director Kitti Worrabanpott, suggests that hotels focusing on the European market may feel the impact more significantly. Continued … 

Chiang Mai Airport plans massive expansion to accommodate 16.5 million travelers

Chiang Mai Airport is set to table its expansion proposal to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during his scheduled visit this weekend.

The airport’s director, Wijit Kaewsaitiam, revealed that the Thai Cement Manufacturers Assn. (TCMA) is set to spearhead the construction of the terminal’s first phase. Continued …

How the noodle became a tourist attraction

Tourists visiting Thailand can now learn about local attractions, cultures and cuisines just by reading the packaging of instant noodles.

The campaign is the latest collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Nissin Foods (Thailand), which has seen the redesign of instant noodles packaging to include photos and details of tourist attractions in Thailand. Continued …

Tourist’s Shoe Gets Stuck At Airport Moving Walkway

Taking place again just two and half months after a woman’s left leg was severed to the knee by a moving walkway at Don Mueang Airport was a scary moment for a tourist when his shoe got jammed in a travelator at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

A video of this scary incident was shared by a TikTok user and fortunately the tourist was not injured. Continued …

Foreign Tourists Marvel as 52 Baby Turtles Emerge on Koh Tao

Yesterday, in Surat Thani province, members of the Turtle Conservation Assn. on Koh Pha Ngan received a report from staff at the Koh Tao Resort, Nai Thon Beach, Koh Tao, that the first baby turtles from Mother Thongdee’s second nest had emerged from their eggs since Monday morning from a total of three nests.

Members of the Turtle Conservation Assn., municipal officials of Koh Tao, and volunteers joined forces to monitor the turtle nest, attempting to allow the baby turtles to naturally make their way to the sea. Continued …

Death toll from flooding in Libya surpasses 5,000

The death toll in Libya has surpassed 5,300 people after a storm caused dams in a coastal city to break, leaving thousands more injured. Muhammad Abu Moshe told the Libyan News Agency the death toll for the entire region is at least 5,300 after Storm Daniel made landfall on Sunday and dropped as much as 16 inches of rain in the Northern African country. Continued …

How close is Earth to becoming unlivable?

We’re two-thirds of the way towards an unlivable planet. According to a new study released Wednesday, human activity has now gone past six of nine planetary “boundaries” that are “important for maintaining the stability and resilience of Earth as a place conducive to human welfare.” Continued …

iPhone 12 sales banned in France over radiation level

A French watchdog agency says Apple’s iPhone 12 emits too much electromagnetic radiation and should be withdrawn from the market, a claim the tech giant disputes. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s News-Feb 11

  • Thailand Pickleball Open Feb 16-19 at True Arena/
  • Give your lover shallots this Valentine’s Day, suggests PM/
  • Wine Pairing: How to Choose the Right Bottle to Drink With Your Favorite Foods/
  • 44 Foreign Drivers Arrested in Patong with No Driving Licenses/
  • Muay Thai and Kun Khmer: a comparative overview/
  • Thailand, Malaysia unite to restore peace in deep South/
  • Chiang Mai tackles PM2.5 pollution with giant vacuum cleaner/
  • Salvaging the HTMS Sukhothai is costly and perilous, navy chief says/
  • Chuwit Kamolvisit: Thailand’s ‘super-pimp’ turned sensational whistle blower/
  • Solar D sees 100% revenue hike to Bt1 billion/
  • Amata, BGRIM to develop city in EEC/
  • Thailand Experience: Misty mornings and starry nights from Phayao’s Doi Phu Langka/Need to relax? Cannabis Thai Massage can soothe your mind, body, and soul/
  • International: First Thai team arrives in quake-hit Turkey/Quake death toll above 23,000 in Turkey, Syria/Do fewer shark bites mean fewer sharks?/
  • 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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Thailand Pickleball Open Feb 16-19 at True Arena

The 2023 Thailand Pickleball Open is set for Feb. 16-19 at True Arena Hua Hin. As many as 140 players from many international communities are expected, including from Hong Kong, UK, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, other European countries and Thailand.

Give your lover shallots this Valentine’s Day, suggests PM

The smell of red onion is in the air this Valentine’s Day in Thailand as Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha invites the public to send shallots to their lover instead of a red rose this year.

PM Prayut is pushing shallots as a symbol of love this V-day to support shallot farmers in Srisaket province in northeast Thailand.

The shallots grown by Srisaket farmers are specially marketed in Valentine’s Day packaging ready for you to present as a gift to your loved one. Continued … 

Wine Pairing: How to Choose the Right Bottle to Drink With Your Favorite Foods

Despite all the deep cellars out there, most of the wine consumed is purchased on the same day that it is opened, and of that a very high percentage is uncorked and enjoyed within two hours of leaving the wine shop. That means there is an awful lot of last-minute decision making going on, much of it based on the food that it will be paired with.

The correct response to, “Can you pick up a bottle of wine on the way over?”, besides “Yes, of course,” should also be, “What’s for dinner?”

There are a few basics to pairing wine and food, and they go beyond the overly simplified “red with meat, white with seafood.” What is the taste profile of the food? Is it spicy? Is it sweet? Is it fatty? Is it lean? Continued … 

44 Foreign Drivers Arrested in Patong with No Driving Licenses

Forty-four foreign drivers have been arrested in Patong for not having driving licenses.

The crackdown was launched last night after 20 French motorbike racers had been arrested after causing a public nuisance this week.

The Patong Police said that last night from 7:30pm to 10:30pm they arrested 39 foreign drivers for not wearing helmets, 44 with no driving license, and eight for jumping red lights. Continued …

Muay Thai and Kun Khmer: a comparative overview

Host Cambodia has dropped Muay Thai from disciplines for the 2023 SEA Games, and replaced it with its own version, Kun Khmer. This led to protests by Thailand that the host country had simply changed the name of the sport from Muay Thai to Kun Khmer.

Cambodia, however, argues that Kun Khmer is an ancient martial art, from which Muay Thai was born.

Thailand decided to boycott the Kun Khmer competition on grounds that the Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) has announced that boxing martial arts that involve the use of fists, knees and elbows must be called “muay” only. Continued …

Thailand, Malaysia unite to restore peace in deep South

Thailand and Malaysia on Friday agreed to work together to end decades of insurgency on the Thai side of their shared border.

Visiting Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met with Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan at a Bangkok hotel on Friday to discuss security issues involving the kingdom’s restive southern border region.

Both sides agreed to work together to end insurgent violence in the Muslim-majority provinces and pave the way for development in border areas, a source said. Continued … 

Chiang Mai tackles PM2.5 pollution with giant vacuum cleaner

Thailand‘s Disaster Department is testing out a giant vacuum cleaner as a way to tackle the PM2.5 dust pollution problem that plagues the northern city of Chiang Mai every “burning season.”

Every year, farmers around Thailand send their forests and fields up in smoke because it’s the cheapest way to prepare to plant new crops, but causing PM2.5 levels to shoot upward. The problem is exacerbated by the lack of rain at this time of year.

Chiang Mai is especially affected because of the sheer volume of agricultural fires in northern Thailand sending dust floating into the city, which lies in a valley. Continued … 

Salvaging the HTMS Sukhothai is costly and perilous, navy chief says

Salvaging the Sukhothai from the Gulf of Thailand could cost over 200 million baht, Royal Thai Navy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Choengchai Chomchoengpaet said on Friday.

The ship sank to a depth of about 50 meters and recovering it could cause damage that will make it more difficult to determine why it sank, the admiral said.

The navy is carefully selecting qualified contractors to salvage the vessel, Choengchai added. Continued … 

Chuwit Kamolvisit: Thailand’s ‘super-pimp’ turned sensational whistle blower

Chuwit Kamolvisit has earned the reputation of an anti-corruption hero after repeatedly exposing police bribery and underground businesses linked to corrupt state officials.

Once a self-declared “super pimp”, Chuwit has evolved from a massage-parlor tycoon to become a politician, a convict, a TV talk-show host, and a crusader against Thailand’s chronic corruption.

Over recent months, he has been busy acting as whistle blower, producing evidence against Chinese triad gangs and the dishonest law enforcers helping them to thrive in Thailand. He also spoke out against senior police officers, accusing them of involvement in illegal online gambling. Continued … 

Solar D sees 100% revenue hike to Bt1 billion

Solar D Corp., the distributor of the Tesla Powerwall energy storage system, expects its revenue to soar by 100% this year to 1 billion baht thanks to growing demand for solar power in Thailand from both the commercial and residential sectors.

The company predicts positive business prospects in the rooftop solar panel and energy storage business in the country because the government has a clear policy to support a shift toward renewable energy, said Sumrit Sitthiwaranuwong, managing director of Solar D.

“In 2022, the company recorded total revenue of around 500 million baht,” he said. Continued … 

Amata, BGRIM to develop city in EEC

Industrial developer Amata Corp. has teamed with B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) to conduct a feasibility study on the construction of Amata European Smart City, expected to serve European companies investing in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

The companies plan to set up a joint venture to develop the project, set to be located on 200 rai of land in Amata City Chon Buri, said Vikrom Kromadit, chief executive of Amata Corp.

“Amata will hold a 60% share in the joint venture, with the remaining 40% funded by BGRIM,” he said. Continued … 

Misty mornings and starry nights from Phayao’s Doi Phu Langka

Intrepid travelers now have a new destination from where they can enjoy a sea of morning mist and bright stars – the top of 1,720-meter-high Doi Phu Langka in Phayao province.

The mountaintop in the northern province’s Pong district is part of Tham Sakoen National Park, which spans 250 square meters across Phayao and Nan.

Doi Phu Langka is some 100 kilometers from Phayao town, with the last 12km covering the scenic PY4020 Road. Continued …

Need to relax? Cannabis Thai Massage can soothe your mind, body, and soul

Over the past few years, many people have turned to alternative therapies to help manage their physical and mental health. A popular one of these is Thai massage. It is a unique practice that has been around for centuries. Moreover, it’s thought to bring the body and mind into harmony, while also providing an array of medicinal benefits.

But, in recent times, the healing power of Thai massage has been given a new twist – the use of hemp oil.

Since the legalization of cannabis in Thailand last year, the country has opened up to new possibilities in the field of medicine and wellness. And one exciting development is the combination of Thai massage with the therapeutic properties of hemp oil. This article explores the benefits and potential of this unique approach to wellness and how it’s changing the game for Thai massage therapy. Continued …

First Thai team arrives in quake-hit Turkey

The first Thai rescue team arrived in Istanbul on Friday, while the Public Health Ministry announced its readiness to send an army medical team today, said the ministry’s deputy permanent secretary Dr. Narong Apikulwanich. Continued …

Quake death toll above 23,000 in Turkey, Syria

The death toll in Turkey and Syria from this week’s catastrophic earthquake surpassed 23,600 on Friday as relief organizations struggled to overcome an array of obstacles to deliver aid to survivors in both countries. Continued …

Do fewer shark bites mean fewer sharks?

Shark attacks worldwide fell in 2022, resulting in fewer shark bite incidents compared to the past decade. In 2020, travel restrictions and beach closures were thought to have resulted in fewer encounters between humans and sharks and fewer shark bites. Continued …

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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

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

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.

 

90-day online reporting

covid, hua hin, medical tourism, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Jan 18

  • Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival Feb 18-26/Hua Hin Marathon May 24/Driving license renewal? DLT takes walk-in applications from now on/Eastin Estates hotel coming to Hua Hin/Cabinet extends diesel excise cut for four more months/Hua Lamphong Station to Partially Transfer Services/Free shuttle buses to start linking Bangkok’s two main train stations/DCD predicts a fourfold jump in dengue and malaria victims this year/New rules target deceptive advertising/Thailand turns to China in 2023 for GDP growth/Southeast Asia food delivery market slows in risk to Grab/Corruption scandal in Thai parks agency has far-reaching impacts, activists say/
  • Sea nomads take struggle over alleged landencroachment to Bangkok/Thai farmer makes 1 million baht per month selling buffalo semen/Search for HTMS Sukhothai’s missing crewmen continues/
  • Tourism: Hotels struggling with staff shortage/In Thailand, tuk-tuk apps spare tourists the hassle of haggling/Beauty clinic for foreigners, illicit silicone implant factory raided/
  • Covid: China back to ‘normal’, says vice-premier/
  • International: India set to overtake China as world’s most populous nation/Vietnam president submits resignation over corruption accusations/Economists slice growth outlook for ASEAN+3/45 dead, 20 missing as Ukraine ends tower block search/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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Your deserve It!

Driving license renewal? DLT takes walk-in applications from now on

Driving licenses can be renewed at Department of Land Transport offices nationwide from now on without the need to book an appointment.

Similarly, those looking for new licenses and changing the category of their license can walk in for service.

People doing extensions should have evidence of their test results on the online “e-learning” course so that they can process their licenses quickly at the DLT. If you have to do the learning at a test center it can take much longer.

Rules about walk-in applicants were all changed during the pandemic but are no longer necessary. – Thai Rath

Eastin Estates hotel coming to Hua Hin

Jonathan Wigley, CEO of the Absolute Hotel Services Group, has signed an agreement with SMC Land Co. to launch the first Eastin Estates-branded property, Eastin Estates Hua Hin.

The 140-key luxury pet-friendly residential development provides an extended stay residential community experience to meet the growing needs of the active senior market, with services and facilities for residents that encourage health and social connections.

Eastin Estates Hua Hin will feature a resident’s lounge, restaurant, convenience store, swimming pool, gym, walking track and wellness clinic, and is just 30 minutes away from Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin and 30 minutes from the bustle of downtown Hua Hin. Continued …

Cabinet extends diesel excise cut for four more months

The Cabinet on Tuesday extended the diesel excise relief of 5 baht per liter for four more months, Deputy Finance Minister Santi Promphat said.

Speaking to reporters after the weekly Cabinet meeting, Santi said the Cabinet reached the resolution to extend the cut from January for four more months to help reduce the cost of living and to prevent consumer product prices from rising.

The latest round of diesel excise cut would cost the Excise Department around 40 billion baht in lost revenue, or about 10 billion baht a month. Continued … 

Hua Lamphong Station to Partially Transfer Services

The Department of Rail Transport (DRT) in Thailand has announced that starting from Thursday there will be fewer long-haul trains departing and arriving at Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station.

According to the DRT, as many as 52 special-express, express and rapid services will depart from Krung Thep Abhiwat Central Terminal, also known as Bang Sue Grand Station. The remaining 62 trips on “public service” trains, including excursion trains and subsidized long-haul services, will continue to depart from Hua Lamphong Station for the time being.

The agency said the reduction in the number of services originating and/or terminating at Hua Lamphong Station will help reduce traffic congestion in and around downtown Bangkok. Continued …

Free shuttle buses to start linking Bangkok’s two main train stations

Free shuttle buses between Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station) and Hua Lamphong Station will start running from Thursday to ensure a seamless commute for people in Bangkok.

The shuttle bus service, provided jointly by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), aims to make travel easier for train commuters after 52 long-distance trains will start terminating at the new station from Thursday.

Six low-slung NGV buses will run between the two stations daily, with the first bus departing Krung Thep Aphiwat at 4.30am and the last bus at 11pm. Continued …

DCD predicts a fourfold jump in dengue and malaria victims this year

The government’s Disease Control Department (DCD) predicts Thailand will see a huge jump in malaria and dengue fever cases this year.

The director-general of the DCD, Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, said the number of malaria and dengue fever sufferers will increase significantly by at least three or four times more than last year.

“There were 10,174 cases last year, three times the cases in 2021, and 45,145 dengue fever cases, an increase of 4.5 times the figure in the same year. Continued …

New rules target deceptive advertising

The Royal Gazette has published an announcement restricting the use of certain phrases in advertisements, as they can mislead customers when purchasing products or services.

Under the rules which go into force today, phrases that can cause confusion or misunderstanding are prohibited. They include the use of superlatives such as “best”, “finest”, and “the one and only” and terms that guarantee satisfaction such as “money back guaranteed”.

The announcement also requires written advertisements to be clearly displayed in Thai, and announcers in radio and television commercials need to speak clearly and not too fast. Continued …

Thailand turns to China in 2023 for GDP growth

Sentiment regarding the economy has been rising since the return of Chinese tourists last January. However, with geopolitical tensions and indeed a trade war between the United States and China, now working with countries such as Russia and Saudi Arabia, as well as elevated energy costs, a dangerous ongoing war in Ukraine and rising interest rates, this choppy world economy presents Thailand with many challenges that must be navigated and tackled in real-time.

China’s economy, despite registering record-low growth in 2022 and being currently in the grips of its largest virus wave, is expected to rebound in the second quarter of 2023. It cannot come too quickly for Thailand, which has suddenly, just in recent months, been left struggling against declining exports and competitiveness driven by a falling U.S. dollar and a dearth of high-spending western tourists this year, with the country’s foreign tourism high season coming to an end in March. Continued …

Southeast Asia food delivery market slows in risk to Grab

Southeast Asia’s food delivery spending grew at the slowest pace in at least four years in 2022, highlighting the challenges faced by regional internet giants Grab Holdings Ltd and GoTo Group.

Online food delivery spending rose 5% to US$6.3 billion, according to an annual report by Singapore-based consultancy Momentum Works. That was the smallest gain since 2018, when the company started tracking data. Growth in the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam offset declines in Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand. Continued …

Corruption scandal in Thai parks agency has far-reaching impacts, activists say

A graft scandal involving the head of Thailand’s national parks department has raised questions about the effects of institutional corruption in the agencies charged with protecting the country’s biodiversity.

Rutchada Suriyakul Na Ayutya, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), was arrested on Dec. 27 in a joint operation of the anticorruption police, the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC).

Officers found 4.94 million baht (about $150,000) in 16 envelopes and gift boxes in his office, which he’d allegedly extorted from officials from the forest reservation units under his control. Continued …

Sea gypsies

Sea nomads take struggle over alleged land encroachment to Bangkok

Sea nomads are taking their struggle over alleged land encroachment to Bangkok. The nomads are part of the Moken minority, a group of semi-nomadic Austronesian group that lives in Thai coastal provinces and inhabits over 800 islands in the Andaman Sea.

Today, a group of Moken people from Koh Lipe rallied in front of the Treasury Department, demanding justice over alleged land encroachment and intimidation.

A coordinator for the Moken of Andaman Network said that a land occupation right issued to an influential figure encroaches on the land of a school on Koh Adang. The coordinator, Wittawat Thepsong, said the encroachment blocks access to beaches and the sea. Continued … 

Thai farmer makes 1 million baht per month selling buffalo semen

A farmer in Kalasin province in northeast Thailand makes 1 million baht every month by selling semen from one special water buffalo named “Big Billion.”

Water buffalo (“kwai”in Thai language) breeders all around the kingdom pay high prices for the semen of Big Billion, a “textbook” Thai water buffalo worth 30 million baht.

Breeders use Big Billion’s seed to artificially inseminate female buffalo in hopes of giving birth to a new generation of beautiful buffalo that will grow up to sell for millions like their father. Continued … 

Search for HTMS Sukhothai’s missing crewmen continues

A search for the five crewmen of the sunken HTMS Sukhothai who remain missing is still continuing, navy commander Adm. Choengchai Chomchoengpaet said on Wednesday.

On Dec. 18, high winds and strong waves caused seawater to flow into HTMS Sukhothai, a corvette of the Rattanakosin class of the Royal Thai Navy operating in the Gulf of Thailand off Bang Saphan district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province.

The flooding caused the engines to fail and the pumps became inoperable. The warship continued to take on water until the warship eventually sank. Continued …

Hotels struggling with staff shortage

Workers remain reluctant to return to the hospitality industry, even though employee revenue from hotel service charges has almost returned to pre-pandemic levels, as Chinese travelers start to return to Thailand.

According to a survey of Phuket and Samui hotel service charges in December, the highest average rate of 61,145 baht was at the Twinpalms Montazure Phuket, while hotels in the top 20 saw average monthly service charges surge to more than 26,000 baht, of which most were five-star properties or managed by international brands.

Suksit Suvunditkul, president of the southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Assn., said revenue from service charges was almost at pre-pandemic levels across all hotel segments, partly because the workforce is 30% lower than before the viral outbreaks. Continued …

In Thailand, tuk-tuk apps spare tourists the hassle of haggling

Ride-hailing apps are making Thailand’s ubiquitous three-wheeled tuk-tuk taxis more accessible to foreign tourists by eliminating the need for cumbersome price negotiations with drivers.

Urban Mobility Tech, which launched its MuvMi ride-hailing service four years ago, offers larger electric tuk-tuks that can carry up to six people, compared with three or four passengers for regular-sized ones. MuvMi has served 3.5 million riders.

Tuk-tuks, which resemble motorized rickshaws, offer better maneuverability than cars on congested streets and are the go-to option to avoid traveling on foot in Thailand’s year-round heat. Continued …

Beauty clinic for foreigners, illicit silicone implant factory raided

Officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) teamed up with police on a raid of several plastic surgery clinics and a manufacturer’s warehouse to confiscate a large number of counterfeit silicone pieces. The joint operation was announced on Monday by the FDA secretary-general and the deputy chief of the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD).

Previous raids had been carried out in December. The latest raid took place last Thursday, Jan. 12. During the raid, it was revealed that fake silicone pieces were used in 1,621 surgeries at the Korawin Clinic’s five branches last year. These surgeries included 1,436 nose jobs, 154 chin implants, and 31 surgeries for both the nose and chin. Continued … 

China back to ‘normal’, says vice-premier

China has returned to normal after the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, Vice Premier Liu He told the World Economic Forum on Tuesday as he invited “international friends” to visit the country.

China abruptly dropped its “zero-Covid” approach last month after three years of enforcing some of the harshest anti-pandemic restrictions in the world. Continued …

India set to overtake China as world’s most populous nation

India is expected to overtake China as the world’s most populous country this year, even though its population growth has been slowing down, the United Nations says. India estimates its population at 1.38 billion, compared to China’s 1.4 billion. Continued … 

Vietnam president submits resignation over corruption accusations

President Nguyen Xuan Phuc submitted his resignation after being found guilty of committing violations and wrongdoing against officials under him. The 68-year-old former prime minister only held the presidential position for two years. Speculation mounted after two deputy prime ministers were dismissed earlier this month. Continued … 

Economists slice growth outlook for ASEAN+3

China’s reopening should provide a timely boost to the ASEAN+3 region as the area’s economic growth was downgraded because of continuing weakness in China, Japan and South Korea, according to economists. Continued … 

45 dead, 20 missing as Ukraine ends tower block search

Rescuers called off the search Tuesday for victims of the Russian missile strike on an apartment building in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, with 20 people still missing and funerals being held in the grief-stricken community. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, phuket, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Jan 2

  • New Year festivals are making Thailand fun again, minister says/Bangkok welcomes 2023 with fireworks over the Chao Phraya/Phetchabun hilltop temple heaves with devotees on New Year’s Eve/Chiang Mai welcomes 2023 with prayers, lanterns and pyrotechnics/Tourists flood Phi Phi on Jan 1/The mass return to Bangkok begins/Guide for Retiring in Thailand: Everything You Need to Know/Thailand in 2023: Tiptoeing through the minefield/ESG expected to be business trend for 2023/Thai industries moving toward a cleaner future/Navy scours Chumphon waters for last 5 HTMS Sukhothai crew/High momentum of EV growth seen for Thailand/
  • Tourism: Thailand ups 2023 forecast to 23M visitors/Thailand makes another travel list: Fodor’s ‘No List’/Green is Thai tourism’s new mandate/Cathay Pacific’s revives direct Phuket-Hong Kong flights/Mayhem and mischief: How tourists behaved badly in 2022/
  • Covid: Thai tourism workers urged to have Covid vaccine booster/PCR tests for travelers reintroduced around the world as Covid-19 cases surge/
  • International: Flying back into profit after pandemic/Vietnam pulls off Asia’s fastest growth/Canada bans most foreigners from buying homes/US stocks mark end to ‘terrible year’ of rate hikes and inflation/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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New Year festivals are making Thailand fun again, minister says

The New Year countdowns held across Thailand are inspiring confidence among tourists and reinvigorating the kingdom’s reputation as a destination for festivities, Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said.

He made the comments during the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023 @Hatyai” in Songkhla on Sunday.

Phiphat said the countdowns are stimulating domestic travel and drawing international tourists, especially from Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Continued … 

Bangkok welcomes 2023 with fireworks over the Chao Phraya

Bangkok skies were lit up with a spectacular fireworks display at midnight as Thailand marked the New Year at Iconsiam’s “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023”. The display, visible from most parts of the city, involved more than 30,000 fireworks being set alight along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. (The Nation)

Chiang Mai welcomes 2023 with prayers, lanterns and pyrotechnics

Thousands of Thais and foreigners flocked to Chiang Mai’s many attractions to ring in the New Year.

Among them was the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, where people gathered to take photographs of the last sunset of 2022.

Many also attended the “Chiang Mai Love is All Around” countdown at the northern capital’s Tha Phae Gate. The event, presided over by Chiang Mai Mayor Assanee Buranupakorn, saw people releasing lanterns for good luck and wowing over a dazzling fireworks display. – The Nation

Tourists flood Phi Phi on Jan 1, Thailand ups 2023 forecast to 23M visitors

Phi Phi Islands National Park in Krabi province was flooded by over 5,000 tourists per day on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, said a park official on Sunday.

Authorities deployed extra staff to oversee parking and increased the number of ticket booths to prevent crowding, as visitors poured in all day to witness the crystal-clear waters and white-sand islands of the 388-square-kilometer marine sanctuary, officially known as Hat Nappharat Thara-Mu Ko National Park.

Large crowds of tourists were seen at Railay Beach, Thale Waek (Separated Sea), Ko Poda and Pi Leh Bay. Continued … 

Phetchabun hilltop temple heaves with devotees on New Year’s Eve

Wat Pha Sorn Kaew in Phetchabun’s Khao Kho district attracted thousands of devotees, who wanted to pray for a successful 2023. The crowds began building from early morning on New Year’s Eve, with most of them being Myanmar migrant workers. Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, also known as Wat Phra That Pha Son Kaeo, is set on an 830-meter peak between Phitsanulok and Phetchabun provinces. The temple features a main pagoda and surrounding buildings adorned with over 5 million colorful mosaic tiles and pottery items and five bright-white sitting Buddha statues. (The Nation)

The mass return to Bangkok begins

Bangkok’s light traffic and quiet roads over the last couple of days will begin to return to the normal congestion today, as New Year revelers return in droves, making it slow going on several highways.

According to the state-run Transport Company, between 50,000 and 60,000 passengers are expected to arrive at its main bus terminals in Bangkok today, with many having started their journeys last night.

Traffic congestion on the Asian highway, from Ayutthaya to Bangkok, was reported to extend up to 10 kilometers this morning. All lanes were clogged with cars and buses, as they inched their way toward the Bang Pa-in elevated section, connecting with Phahonyothin Road and the motorway. – thaipbs.com

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Guide for Retiring in Thailand: Everything You Need to Know

Many prefer retiring in Thailand. Its beautiful beaches, delicious food, affordable prices, and tropical climate simply makes it the closest thing to paradise. This is why expats and retirees from all over the world prefer enjoying the remaining years of their lives in the country.

If you’re considering retiring in Thailand, this article is perfect for you. We will enlist everything that you need to know – from benefits to retirement places, and even answers to frequently asked questions. We will also enlist guidelines on ho  you can also get a retirement visa.

  1. Affordable Lifestyle

Thailand is ideal for retirement because you get to live luxuriously without spending so much. In Thailand, your £16 (669 baht) will already be able to afford you a delicious three-course meal at a restaurant. Rent in a city will only cost around £308 (12,872 baht). For beer, you would only need £1.30 (54 baht). Continued …

Thailand in 2023: Tiptoeing through the minefield

2023 should be the first time in three years Thailand can fully return to normal practices after Covid-19 was downgraded to endemic in October 2022. Yet, businesses still need to stay alert to several obstacles on the horizon.

Higher rates

Borrowers face higher financial costs in 2023 under the Bank of Thailand’s policy normalization approach and the trend of rising interest rates in the market. Continued … 

ESG expected to be business trend for 2023

The past three years have proven to be challenging for many people following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Though the situation has improved, many businesses are still grappling with economic pressures, such as higher costs driven by inflation and higher energy prices, while concerns over climate change are motivating businesses and the public to become more environmentally aware.

Here are some key business trends that are expected to set the tone in 2023.

Banks incorporate ESG

Banks are continuing to incorporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into their business operations in a push for a sustainable transformation of the economy. Continued … 

Thai industries moving toward a cleaner future

Companies in the clean energy sector expect bright business prospects in 2023, as concerns over high energy costs and the impact of fossil fuels on the environment continue to grow.

Not only are solar, wind energy and bio-gas set to increase under the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) renewable energy scheme, but demand for natural gas, which is considered cleaner than oil and and coal, is also expected to rise.

At a forum on environmental, social and corporate governance, Somruedee Chaimongkol, chief executive of non-oil energy conglomerate Banpu Plc, said her company viewed gas as a “bridge” between fossil and renewable fuels. Continued … 

Navy scours Chumphon waters for last 5 HTMS Sukhothai crew

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) dispatched 28 Navy Seals and 53 divers on Saturday to hunt for the still missing five HTMS Sukhothai crew members.

The team will focus on seven islets and Makham Bay in the Gulf of Thailand off the coast of Chumphon province.

Vice Admiral Pichai Lorchusakul, commander of the First Naval Area Command, said it is believed the strong waves may have taken the bodies to these spots. Continued … 

High momentum of EV growth seen for Thailand

Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) market will continue to gain momentum in 2023, with sales expected to reach between 25,000 and 35,000 units, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

But whether the target will be attained depends on the availability of semiconductors, which have become scarce worldwide, affecting the automotive industry.

The FTI says EV sales in 2022 could reach 1,000 units. Continued … 

 

 

Thailand makes another travel list: Fodor’s ‘No List’

Thailand boasted recently of its ranking on many travel lists, from being among the least corrupt countries in Asia to ranking one of the best locations for expats, and rating one of the safest countries to visit.

The country has made the ranks by having some of the top-rated food and beaches in the world. But Thailand also received a nod this year that they might not be as quick to promote: Fodor’s “No List” for 2023.

The popular travel company puts out a list each year of countries, cities, and locations that people should reconsider traveling to for various reasons. The company considers tourism’s damage to a place’s culture and the environment, or a country’s record on human rights or corruption. Continued …

Green is Thai tourism’s new mandate

Tourism analysts say sustainability and responsible tourism represent a new mandate for the Thai industry after the pandemic.

Responsible tourism and sustainability in tourism will be the main direction in the future, Thanet Phetsuwan, deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said at the “Bangkok Post Year-End Forum”.

Thanet said the TAT is trying to shift to quality-based tourism from a quantity-focused strategy, which saw Thailand welcome 40 million arrivals in 2019. Continued …

Cathay Pacific’s revives direct Phuket-Hong Kong flights

The return of flights to Phuket keep racking up. But this one is particularly welcome. Hong-Kong based carrier Cathay Pacific, one of the worst affected airlines in the world over the past three years, has re-launched direct flights to Phuket.

The re-launched flight schedule arrived yesterday, with 118 passengers on board. The airline tried to relaunch flights last year in November but had to postpone the re-introduction because of the latest surge of Covid at the time.

Hong Kong, along with China, recently eased Covid-19 travel restrictions and the introduction of the direct services back to Phuket is a reflection of this. Staff at Phuket Airport were on hand to welcome passengers arriving on CX771, presenting them with gifts and souvenirs to mark the occasion. Continued … 

Mayhem and mischief: How tourists behaved badly in 2022

In 2022, the world started traveling again — and with that came the return of all the usual misbehavior and antics abroad. But with nerves perhaps frayed by a record year for airline cancellations, delays, lost luggage and inflated prices, misconduct was a particularly strong theme. Here are the standout moments from a year of travelers behaving badly.

‘Did you pack your bag yourself?’

Sharp items and weaponry are, as everyone knows, huge no-nos when it comes to carry-on bags at the airport.

Everyone that is except for the man in Boston with a sword concealed inside a cane, the passenger at New York’s LaGuardia who was packing nunchucks, three saw blades, a switchblade and a folding knife, and the traveler in Alaska who rocked up to the security checkpoint with a bag filled with 28 knives. Continued … 

Thai tourism workers urged to have Covid vaccine booster

With China experiencing a surge in Covid infections and simultaneously about to re-open its borders, tourism staff in Thailand are being urged to have a booster vaccine dose. According to a report, the Tourism Authority of Thailand is calling on all tourism workers to ensure they’re protected ahead of the expected return of Chinese tourists.

Yuthasak Supasorn, the TAT governor, says staff who are likely to have close contact with tourists, such as hotel receptionists, drivers, and tour guides, should make sure they’re protected against infection. China’s borders re-open next Sunday and Thailand expects to see a rise in the number of Chinese arrivals.

A government spokesman says PM Prayut Chan-o-cha has also instructed the Public Health Ministry to ensure measures are in place to keep the public safe from infection. Thailand is preparing to welcome around 300,000 visitors from China during the first quarter of 2023, according to spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri. Continued …

PCR tests for travelers reintroduced around the world as Covid-19 cases surge

Just as mandatory PCR testing for travelers had become a thing of the past in many parts of the world, regulations are being reintroduced as Covid-19 cases surge once more.

Much of this is driven by the surge in cases from China, after Beijing dismantled its zero-Covid policies, including regular PCR testing of its population, triggering concern around the world.

The U.S., Australia and UK, for example, are to impose PCR testing requirements on any travelers from China from Thursday. The U.S. and Australia’s guidelines also cover Hong Kong and Macau. Continued … 

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Flying back into profit after pandemic

The outlook for the aviation industry worldwide is chiefly positive this year,s although the path ahead is not without risks, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Continued … 

Vietnam pulls off Asia’s fastest growth

Vietnam’s economy grew at the fastest pace in Asia this year, signaling momentum just before risks from a global slowdown began to materialize. Continued … 

Canada bans most foreigners from buying homes

A ban on foreigners buying residential property in Canada took effect on Sunday, aiming to make more homes available to locals facing a housing crunch. Continued … 

US stocks mark end to ‘terrible year’ of rate hikes and inflation

Wall Street stocks saw their worst year since 2008 on Friday, after a “terrible” period shaken by inflation and aggressive moves to rein in costs. Continued …

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, real estate, solar, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-Dec 29

1 Comment

  • Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hua Hin/PKK sea embankment project back on track/Which Thai provinces drink the most alcohol/Top 5 foreign nationalities buying condos in Thailand in 2022/Grab predicts 2023 consumer trends/6 still missing from HTMS Sukhothai after grim discoveries in Chumphon/Reopening propels fuel consumption/Rapidly spreading yellow-band disease killing Thailand’s coral reefs/Bridgestone Installs Solar Rooftop Panels At Its Thailand Plant/Thai police arrest gang of Chinese visa over-stayers in Bangkok/5 beauty fanatics share skin-care tips and thoughts on CBD oil/
  • Tourism: Thailand anticipates windfall from China’s easing of travel restrictions/Tourism Authority shifts goal to 25 million tourists in 2023 after China reopens borders/Pattaya packing 3-day firework show into single countdown explosion/Air rage incident on Thai Smile Airways flight from Bangkok to Kolkata/
  • Thailand Experience: Eight ‘must-see’ flower gardens in Chiang Mai’s Mae Rim district/Unique coffee brew is drawing tourists to a mountain top in Tak province/
  • Covid: Call for tourist booster shots as Chinese return/US, others will require COVID-19 testing for travelers from China/
  • International: At least 10 feared dead in Thai-owned, Cambodia casino inferno/Record 6,036 American kids killed or injured by gunfire in 2022/Travel misery grinds on as US digs out from superstorm/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Hua Hin

Continued …

PKK sea embankment project back on track

Conservationists and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Prachuap Khiri Khan have withdrawn their protests against the construction of a controversial sea embankment at Mae Ram Phueng beach in Bang Saphan district.

The decision means authorities can now resume the project’s construction after a year-long hiatus, which was prompted by the protests.

Those who had been opposed to the embankment’s construction said they would allow the authorities to continue work but required the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning (DPT) to adapt the design to support biodiversity on the beach. Continued …

Which Thai provinces drink the most alcohol

Earlier this week, a doctor gave a lecture about provincial alcohol consumption in Thailand at a conference held by the Center of Addiction Studies in Bangkok.

Dr. Athip Tan-Aree, MD, from Srithanya Hospital in Nonthaburi province, revealed the results of a nationwide survey that asked 84,000 Thai respondents questions about their alcohol drinking habits.

The survey found that 28% of respondents over 15 years old or more drank alcohol in the past 12 months. Results showed that 9% of 15-to-19-year-olds drank alcohol, despite the law forbidding the sale of alcohol to anyone under 20 years old. Continued … 

Top 5 foreign nationalities buying condos in Thailand in 2022

Chinese nationals bought the most condos out of any foreign nationality in Thailand this year despite the difficulties posed by Beijing’s strict Covid-19 restrictions, which are finally easing up after three years.

In Thailand, foreigners are permitted to own 49% of the units in any condominium building. The remaining 51% must have Thai ownership.

Although fewer Chinese bought condos in Thailand this year than in previous years, Chinese owners are still dominating the foreign condo market, accounting for almost half of all condos bought by foreigners in the first 9 months of 2022. Continued … 

Grab predicts 2023 consumer trends

Super-app Grab has underscored healthy menus, afternoon snacks and delivery subscriptions as consumer trends that merchants should pay attention to next year.

The trends are shown in a survey of users of food delivery GrabFood and grocery delivery GrabMart, as part of the “Food & Grocery Trends 2022” report.

The report gauged the opinions of more than 30,000 users in six ASEAN countries, including Thailand. Continued …

6 still missing from HTMS Sukhothai after grim discoveries in Chumphon

The bodies of two more crewmen from the ill-fated HTMS Sukhothai were retrieved on Wednesday morning, leaving six still missing, the Royal Thai Navy said.

Vice Admiral Pichai Lorchusakul, commander of the First Naval Area, said a Chumphon fishing patrol boat was alerted at 8.30am that a body had washed onto a beach on the holiday island of Koh Samet, 3 kilometers from the mainland.

Pichai said the patrol boat alerted the Rak Sal Dhama Paknam Chumphon Rescue Foundation to retrieve the body. Continued …

Reopening propels fuel consumption

The full reopening of the country from July drove fuel consumption, which grew by 14% year-on-year over the first 11 months of 2022, says the Department of Energy Business.

From January to November, consumption of fuels, covering diesel, gasoline and gasohol, jet fuel, fuel oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), kerosene and compressed natural gas, stood at 150 million liters per day (MLD).

Jet fuel consumption saw the highest growth of 90% to 8.7 MLD, up from 4.7 MLD in the same period last year, said department chief Nanthika Thangsupanich. Continued …

Rapidly spreading yellow-band disease killing Thailand’s coral reefs

Underneath the calm turquoise waters off eastern Thailand, a rapidly spreading disease is killing corals over vast stretches of the sea floor, and scientists fear it may be getting worse because of climate change.

Yellow-band disease – named for the color it turns corals before destroying them – was first spotted decades ago and has caused widespread damage to reef in the Caribbean. There is no known cure.

But it was detected for the first-time off Thailand’s eastern coast just last year, near the popular tourist city of Pattaya, and has already spread over roughly 600 acres (240 hectares) of the sea. Continued … 

Bridgestone Installs Solar Rooftop Panels At Its Thailand Plant

Thai Bridgestone Co. has installed solar rooftop panels to directly power the tire production process in its Nong Khae plant, in Saraburi province.

The largest solar rooftop panel among the Bridgestone Group with a total capacity of 9.95 MWp, is expected to generate a 97,500 tons reduction in total CO2 emissions over the next 15 years.

The solar rooftop panels installation will inspire carbon neutrality across the business and is an inspirational step in it reaching Bridgestone’s vision as a sustainable solutions company by 2050 and reinforces the importance of a tire production base in Thailand, the company said. Continued …

Thai police arrest gang of Chinese visa over-stayers in Bangkok

Thailand’s Immigration Police arrested a gang of Chinese visa over-stayers in the Chatuchak district of Bangkok yesterday.

On Monday, North Bangkok District Court issued a search warrant for a property in Soi Sermsuk to investigate a group of “suspicious aliens.”

Officers from the Immigration Bureau searched the property yesterday and found that seven Chinese nationals were staying there. All seven had visas, but five were out of date. Police didn’t say how long the five had overstayed in the kingdom. Continued … 

5 beauty fanatics share skin-care tips and thoughts on CBD oil

From snails to seaweed, anti-aging and skin care trends aren’t new in Thailand. And with cannabis being the hot topic in 2022, can high-quality hemp and CBD oil be the next biggest thing?

CBD experts from Bloom asked five different beauty fanatics their opinions about adding CBD oil to their routines. Who knows, you might be inspired to add CBD Oil to your own skin care routine. Continued …

Thailand anticipates windfall from China’s easing of travel restrictions

Thailand is expected to benefit from China’s recent easing of travel restrictions, and Thai tourism and tourism-related businesses are preparing to cope with a surge in Chinese tourists after three years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith has predicted that the number of foreign tourists visiting Thailand next year is expected to double, from this year’s 11 million, excluding Chinese tourists who are expected to visit Thailand in droves after the relaxation of travel restrictions imposed upon them by the Chinese government under its “zero infection” policy.

An executive of a hotel in the Vibhavadi Rangsit area of Bangkok said that many hotels are revising their plans to cope with the return of Chinese tourists. Continued …

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Tourism Authority shifts goal to 25 million tourists in 2023 after China reopens borders

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revised its target for international tourists in 2023, aiming to attract 25 million instead of the previously planned 20 million, after China announced an end to Covid-induced border closures.

The Chinese government also canceled all quarantine measures and restrictions on flights that will go into effect on Jan. 8.

As for the TAT, Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said he would propose to the government to extend the period of stay for three groups of foreign travelers arriving in Thailand until Dec. 31, 2023, to attract foreign visitors, especially Chinese, to stay and spend more in Thailand. Continued …

Pattaya packing 3-day firework show into single countdown explosion

Pattaya has relit the fuse for New Year’s Eve celebrations by announcing the city’s countdown fireworks display will be held after all on Dec. 31.

On Wednesday, the resort city reversed its earlier decision to call off the New Year fireworks display – one of the country’s largest – amid nationwide prayers for the recovery of HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati.

Firework displays were originally scheduled for Dec. 29-31, along with countdown concerts and fairs throughout the three days at Bali Hai Pier in Bang Lamung district. Continued …

Air rage incident on Thai Smile Airways flight from Bangkok to Kolkata

Footage of an air rage incident emerged yesterday of two Indian passengers swapping punches on a flight from Bangkok to Kolkata in India.

A passenger recorded footage of the fracas and uploaded it to social media where it quickly went viral. It captures two men swapping insults, then punches after boarding a Thai Smile Airways flight that was set to take off from Bangkok and arrive in Kolkata on Tuesday afternoon.

Co-passengers and cabin crew can be heard yelling at the men to stop fighting. Continued … 

Eight ‘must-see’ flower gardens in Chiang Mai’s Mae Rim district

For those seeking to enjoy and pose for photos in beautiful fields with a rich range of flowers in bright shades of colors during the New Year holidays, a trip to Mae Rim district in the northern province of Chiang Mai is a must.

There are eight flower gardens in Mae Rim that people could consider visiting to enjoy the natural splendor and take colorful photos. Continued …

Unique coffee brew is drawing tourists to a mountain top in Tak province

The Tak provincial office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand is encouraging more tourists to visit Doi Muser mountaintop to sample the unique Arabica coffee grown there.

The coffee beans harvested on the mountain have a unique taste and aroma, and they have transformed the area into a tourism destination, said Thamolwan Charoenwongpisit, director of the tourism agency’s office in the province.

The coffee beans are in the process of being registered as a geographical indication product of Doi Muse, Thamolwan added. Continued …

Call for tourist booster shots as Chinese return

The Tourism and Sports Ministry hopes to offer Covid-19 booster shots to tourists and Thai tourism workers in preparation for the return of Chinese travelers.

Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said this would be a worthwhile investment, as vaccine prices are now lower, at around a few hundred baht per shot.

Phiphat said if the average tourist spent 40,000 baht, with 7% value-added tax collected from that expenditure, the value would exceed the vaccine prices. Continued …

US, others will require COVID-19 testing for travelers from China

The U.S. announced new COVID-19 testing requirements Wednesday for all travelers from China, joining other nations imposing restrictions because of a surge of infections.

The increase in cases across China follows the rollback of the nation’s strict anti-virus controls. China’s “zero COVID” policies had kept China’s infection rate low but fueled public frustration and crushed economic growth.

Beginning Jan. 5, all travelers to the U.S. from China will be required to take a COVID-19 test no more than two days before travel and provide a negative test before boarding their flight. The testing applies to anyone 2 years and older. Continued …

At least 10 feared dead in Thai-owned Cambodia casino inferno

Firefighters struggled to control a huge blaze that broke out at the Grand Diamond City Hotel and Casino in Poipet on the Thai-Cambodian border at 11pm on Wednesday. Unconfirmed reports say 10 people have died at the scene so far after victims were seen jumping from the fifth floor of the blazing building. Continued … 

Record 6,036 American kids killed or injured by gunfire in 2022

With just a few days left until the new year, 2022 has already set a grim record: so far, at least 6,036 children across the United States have been killed or injured by gunfire, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Continued …

Travel misery grinds on as US digs out from superstorm

Thousands more flights were canceled across the United States on Wednesday, with no end in sight to days of travel misery as the country digs out from a deadly superstorm. Continued …

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Dec 28

  • Interior Ministry issues urgent order for New Year celebrations/Price hikes to affect over 7,000 food, drink products/Thailand readies for turbulent economic ride/Environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022/Thai navy intensifies hunt for 8 missing HTMS Sukhothai crew/DDC allays brain-eating amoeba fears/The 5 S’s of Wine Tasting/Thailand’s Plastic Waste Conundrum/Manufacturing falls in November amid global economic slowdown/Thai exports exceed 2022 target despite end-of-year slump/Export sector outlook looks bleak as global economy heads into tailspin /Seven key trends expected to influence financial services in 2023/National Parks chief charged with massive corruption/Meet the food waste fighters/Indian man arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstay/Pakistani Man Arrested in Patong for 3,270 Days of Overstay/
  • Tourism: Thai tourism industry waits expectantly as China scraps travel restrictions/Chinese tourism influx raises fears/No immediate surge of Chinese tourists expected after re-opening/Bangkok airport girds for New Year travelers/Phuket’s Russian Revolution/New Zealand Tourist Dies In Fall From Kanchanaburi Train/
  • Thailand Experience: Chiang Mai is the trendy new travel spot: 7 things you must do when you go/Eastern Thailand: Why Travel to this Underrated Region/
  • Covid: Current vaccines ‘will do’ for coming year: ministry/
  • International: Massive flight cancellations leave thousands of suitcases stranded at US airports/Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that impose price cap/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Interior Ministry issues urgent order for New Year celebrations

The Interior Ministry has issued five rules for New Year celebrations in an urgent order sent to all provincial governors.

Issued on Monday, the ministry order explains that government agencies and the private sector can still organize celebrations, but organizers must strictly stick to the following five rules:

  1. Entertainment venues must close at specified hours and keep underage people, weapons, drugs and other illegal items out of their premises. Continued … 

Price hikes to affect over 7,000 food, drink products

The price of many food and beverage products will rise early next year by an average of 18% between January and Apri, according to a survey of 105 major companies compiled by credit research firm Teikoku Databank, as of today.

Price hikes will affect 7,152 items, more than 1.5 times the number from the same period this year, with some products such as frozen and wheat-based foods seeing a further increase.

Original figures compiled as of the end of November showed that 4,425 items would be affected by price hikes. However, the last 20 days have seen the number of products rise by 1.6 times. Manufacturers are believed to have pushed forward with further price increases in the face of higher costs in areas such as materials, transportation and labor. Continued …

Thailand readies for turbulent economic ride

As global interest rates continued to rise in 2022 to tame persistently high inflation, the Bank of Thailand and its governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput are being scrutinized as the business sector watches the direction of Thai interest rates.

Aggressive monetary policy this year to curb inflation was led by the U.S. Federal Reserve. The Fed began to increase its policy benchmark rate from March and deployed a hawkish monetary policy throughout the year.

Despite the tight monetary policy of the Fed, the Bank of Thailand has maintained its normalization of policy rates on a gradual basis, in accordance with the slow recovery of the Thai economy compared with other countries. Continued …

Environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022

From floods and extreme weather, to climate change and the adoption of the bio-circular-green economy, the environment was uppermost in the minds of many in 2022.

For Thais, especially those who reside in low-lying areas and flood plains, 2022 was another year of floods and extreme weather.

Throughout the year, Thailand experienced a series of unseasonal weather events and unusually intense rainfall, which led to major floods in many parts of the country. Continued … 

Thai navy intensifies hunt for 8 missing HTMS Sukhothai crew

The Royal Thai Navy announced that eight sailors of the doomed HTMS Sukhothai are still missing after two bodies were retrieved on Tuesday morning.

The navy said that 76 of the 105 crew members of the warship were rescued, 21 were confirmed dead and eight still missing.

Vice Admiral Pichai Lorchusakul, commander of the First Naval Area, said the navy’s drone had spotted a body near Koh Sak close to the coast of Chumphon’s Muang district at 8.36am. Continued …

DDC allays brain-eating amoeba fears

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) said a brain disease caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly referred to as “brain-eating amoeba”, is not contagious between people.

The announcement came after The Korea Herald reported on Monday that a Korean national in his 50s died last Wednesday of the brain disease after returning from a four-month stay in Thailand.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), his genetic tests for three types of pathogens causing Naegleria fowleri were 99.6% similar to those found in a meningitis patient reported abroad. Continued …

The 5 S’s of Wine Tasting

Thailand’s rapidly emerging wine culture is now centering on Hua Hin, with a growing number of sophisticated wine bars offering a huge range of wines from important wine growing regions across the world, but importantly an internationally awarded vineyard at the city’s doorsteps.

The Monsoon Valley Vineyard now also features a wine sampling cellar and on the 2022 Harvest Festival (Feb. 18-23), offers the ideal opportunity to discover what’s so special about Thailand’s best wines.

You may believe that a wine-tasting procedure is unnecessarily tedious; after all, why not just drink and enjoy it? In truth, there’s something mystical about wine tasting when you learn to use all of your senses, so let’s explore the 5 S’s in wine tasting. Continued …

Thailand’s Plastic Waste Conundrum

Despite the Thai government’s ban on four more types of single-use plastics in 2022, up to 250,000 tons of imported plastic waste from other nations continues to flow into the country annually through the international plastic waste trade.

Thailand is trying to stay the course with further efforts to mitigate plastic pollution, but there are still challenges in waste sorting and collection on the ground.

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In 2019, the Thai Cabinet also approved the “Road Map on Plastic Waste Management” for the period 2020 to 2030 as the policy framework for related agencies to work on in pursuit of the targets. This includes a ban on seven types of single-use plastics and to completely recycle domestic plastic waste within the designated time frames in the road map. Continued …

Manufacturing falls in November amid global economic slowdown

Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) fell in November by 5.6% year-on-year to 95.11 points, the lowest in 15 months, as oil refineries were shut down for maintenance while a global economic slowdown began to affect exporters, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

Officials expect the MPI for the whole year to grow by 1%, down from an earlier prediction of 1.9%.

“A global economic slowdown could lead to a recession, which will affect the Thai export sector,” said Warawan Chitaroon, acting director-general of the OIE. Continued …

Thai exports exceed 2022 target despite end-of-year slump

Exports rose 7.6% in the first 11 months of 2022 to US$265.34 billion, or 9.16 trillion baht, exceeding the target of 9 trillion baht for the whole year, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said on Tuesday.

Cross-border trade in the same period was worth 944 billion baht, down 0.51% from the previous year.

However, exports in November were down 6% on last year to $22.3 billion, while imports rose 5.6% to $23.65 billion. December’s export figures are also expected to drop from last year amid the ongoing global economic slowdown. Continued …

Export sector outlook looks bleak as global economy heads into tailspin

Thailand’s exports contracted by 6% in November due to a decline in external demand, but rising economic activities from tourism recovery allowed manufacturing outputs to expand 1.41% last month, government agencies said.

Export value contracted by 6% to US$ 22.31 billion in November due to the slowdown of the global economy, the Ministry of Commerce said.

This was the second consecutive month of decline in exports after a 4.4% dip seen during October. Continued …

Seven key trends expected to influence financial services in 2023

Cloud, real-time payments, and embedded finance are among seven key financial trends predicted for 2023, Mambu, a cloud banking platform, has revealed.

The prediction by the world’s leading financial services firms is included in Mambu’s annual “Partner Predictions” report, which highlights the top financial trends expected to influence the industry in 2023, as businesses try to survive and thrive in a volatile macroeconomic environment.

The report features insightful commentary from industry leaders from the fintech and financial services sectors, including executives from AWS, Backbase, Deloitte, Google Cloud, and others. Continued … 

National Parks chief charged with massive corruption

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry has launched an internal investigation of National Parks chief Rutchada Suriyakul na Ayutthaya after he was arrested and charged with malfeasance and bribery on Tuesday.

Anti-Corruption Division (ACD) police detained Rutchada during a bribery sting operation at his Chatuchak office in Bangkok on Tuesday morning.

After the shock arrest, ministry Permanent Secretary Jatuporn Buruspat issued an order to form a panel for a seven-day investigation. Continued …

Meet the food waste fighters

Thailand ranked 9th on the 2021 Global Climate Risk Index of countries most affected by “extreme weather events” between 2010 and 2019.

One of the factors contributing to climate change is food waste. When organic material decomposes in landfills, it emits the greenhouse gas methane, which is far more potent than CO2. Hence, the quickest way to save the planet is to reduce the amount of food waste.

“Food waste actually starts from the harvesting of the raw material up to consumption, to the food on the plate. All the way up from the harvest to consumption we consider the waste so, all in all, globally we have about 30% of the food produced and processed being wasted. This is remarkable and is a lot. Continued …

Indian man arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstay

A 44-year-old Indian man was arrested in Patong for 1,322 days of overstaying his legal visa conditions. The Phuket Immigration Office said they have arrested Anil Dutt, an Indian national, on Phra Baramee Road in Patong. Continued …

Pakistani Man Arrested in Patong for 3,270 Days of Overstay

A 35-year-old Pakistani man was arrested in Patong for 3,270 days of overstaying his legal visa conditions the Phuket Immigration Office reported Monday. They arrested Anjum Raza, a Pakistani national, on Phra Baramee Road in Patong. Continued … 

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Thai tourism industry waits expectantly as China scraps travel restrictions

Thailand’s tourism industry can expect a boost from China’s move to scrap measures on overseas travel of its citizens from Jan. 8, the Tourism Council of Chiang Mai said on Tuesday.

China’s National Health Commission announced the move on Monday after nearly three years of strict pandemic border restrictions effectively prevented tourists from leaving the country.

Visitors from China were Thailand’s largest tourism market before the pandemic struck in 2020. Continued …

Chinese tourism influx raises fears

An overload of tourists and an overwhelmed Thai healthcare system are issues to monitor next year after China fully reopens, with up to 500,000 tourists projected to start traveling during Chinese New Year.

Even though the tourism sector applauded the announcement from Beijing that it is lifting most entry requirements from Jan. 8, except for a pre-arrival Covid-19 test, tourism operators were concerned about an imbalance between supply and demand.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said China’s reopening would lead TAT to revise its target for foreign arrivals from 20 million to more than 25 million in 2023. Continued …

No immediate surge of Chinese tourists expected after re-opening

China’s relaxation of Covid-19 rules for international arrivals has raised hopes that its multi-billion dollar travel business will soon flourish again but countries longing for the return of Chinese tourists will likely face more of a wait.

China’s National Health Commission announced on Monday that inbound travelers would no longer have to go into quarantine from Jan. 8. There are no official restrictions on Chinese people going abroad but the new rule will make it much easier for them to return home.

China was the world’s largest outbound tourism market before Covid shut down global travel, with its overseas visitors spending US$27.5 billion on travel in 2019. Continued … 

Bangkok airport girds for New Year travelers

The number of outbound and inbound travelers passing through Suvarnabhumi airport is expected to surge to an average of 145,000 per day during the New Year period.

Kittipong Kittikachorn, director of Suvarnabhumi airport, on Tuesday said the daily number would bring the total number of travelers coming through the airport to 1.01 million during Dec. 29–Jan. 4. Continued …

Phuket’s Russian Revolution

Phuket is busy again, for the first time since April 2020 when the government closed off the airports and passenger arrivals into Thailand, because of the Covid pandemic.

While the surge of tourists, principally from a couple of countries, is a very welcome return to business for many hotels, tour companies, restaurants and tourist-related businesses, the current arrival numbers could provide some stark warnings for the island’s sustainability as a tourism destination.

Without getting into the specific geo-politics, we should at least be completely transparent about how the current rush to repopulate Phuket with tourism customers may have some unforeseen consequences. Continued …

New Zealand Tourist Dies In Fall From Kanchanaburi Train

A tourist from New Zealand slipped and fell from the train that had slowed down for passengers to take photos at Kanchanaburi’s Krasae Cave, which was the camp of POWs in World War II.

At 12.10 p.m. Police Lt. Col. Kiattisak Kerdchok, an investigator at Sai Yok police station, was notified of a foreigner having died after falling off a train at Krasae Cave in Lum Sum subdistrict and quickly went there together with Pitakarn Kanchanaburi Foundation rescuers.

At the scene they found Patrick Ward, 45, lying on the ground after plunging seven to eight meters from the train. His body was taken to Sai Yok Hospital for an autopsy, with the New Zealand embassy also contacted. Continued …

Chiang Mai is the trendy new travel spot: 7 things you must do when you go

With its stunning array of temples, delicious food scene, hopping nightlife, gorgeous natural opportunities, and all-around laid-back atmosphere, there’s a lot to love about Chiang Mai. Beyond its abundance of awesome experiences, this moderate-size city also offers a high standard of living at a relatively low cost, along with a well-developed visitor infrastructure.

It’s no wonder that it’s become so popular with travelers over the past two years, particularly among the remote-working “digital nomad” crowd.

The best time to go is between October and April when temperatures cool off a bit (though it never really gets cold), but keep in mind that February tends to bring a few months of smoky air — sometimes uncomfortably so — as the country burns its dead crops. Continued …

Eastern Thailand: Why Travel to this Underrated Region

Eastern Thailand is a stunning region in The Land of Smiles that is often less explored than the rest of the country. It’s a shame, though, because this is one of the best regions of Thailand!

This area has everything from gorgeous, white sand beaches to lush, forested national parks!

If you are looking for ways to enhance your Thailand itinerary, check out our suggestions for having the best time in the region. Continued …

Current vaccines ‘will do’ for coming year: ministry

The second generation of Covid-19 vaccines is unlikely to be included in the Department of Medical Services’ procurement pipeline next year while current vaccines remain effective in reducing severe symptoms, says its deputy director-general.

Dr. Weerawut Iamsamran said on Tuesday that no evidence has emerged to back claims that bivalent vaccines offer better results than the monovalent platforms widely being used to prevent advanced infection and severe symptoms.

“Therefore, the current Covid-19 vaccines can still achieve the goal, especially in reducing severe symptoms of Covid-19,” he said. Continued … 

Massive flight cancellations leave thousands of suitcases stranded at US airports

After a weekend of canceled flights and travel delays, storm-weary travelers in the U.S. found themselves facing yet another challenge – tracking down their lost luggage. In airports around the country, thousands of bags have piled up, waiting for their rightful owners to claim them. Continued … 

Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that impose price cap

President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday delivered Russia’s long-awaited response to a Western price cap, signing a decree that bans the supply of crude oil and oil products from Feb. 1 for five months to nations that impose the cap. Continued …

 

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