Tag Archives: Hua Hin Blues Fest

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Friday’s news-Jan 17

January 17, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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Dusit’s new Hua Hin condo project/Hua Hin Blues Fest/Black Mountain Championship honored/Centara Grand wins HolidayCheck honor/Sansara’s luxury villa development/Power tariff faces trim of 17 satang/Growth of health spending in Thailand/China fight of cross-border crimes/Absent in global boobs size rankings/Flood warning issued/Forest fires continue/South Thailand unrest/Some of the world’s fattest kids/Man shoots cat with harpoon/Shocking truth at abandoned Phuket Zoo/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: The Rise of Southeast Asia/Entertainment complex plus online gambling?/Hidden motives behind online gambling/Investment likely to keep flowing/Working to protect auto industry/Thailand to sign free trade agreement/Bt10-billion factory expansion/TOURISM: Brawls in Pattaya/4 million travelers over Chinese New Year/Regional hub for cruise tourism/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Rice fields turned into art/Chefs to Serve Thai Favorites/CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok For Sustainably/INTERNATIONAL/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

Dusit invests in multigeneration Hua Hin condo project

Dusit International is expanding to real estate with an investment in a new multigeneration condo project in Hua Hin, while targeting at least 15 new contracts for hotel management, including in Europe.

Siradej Donavanik, vice president of development at Dusit Hotels & Resorts, said to capture the senior residence trend, the company plans to launch Dusit Ajara, a luxury condo under its property development arm Dusit Estate, this year. Continued …

Power tariff faces trim of 17 satang at expense of renewable energy

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) expects to reduce the power tariff by 0.17 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit), leading to cheaper electricity bills, if the government agrees to reduce its spending on a policy to promote investment in renewable energy.

Part of the power tariff, which is now 4.15 baht a unit, is spent to support the renewable energy policy, a key factor keeping power bills high for households and businesses, according to the regulator. Continued …

Growth of health spending in Thailand from 2017 to 2024

China urges ASEAN (Thailand) to fight cross-border crimes

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on Southeast Asian countries yesterday to take strong measures to crack down on online gambling and telecom fraud, urging the “relevant” nations to shoulder their responsibilities.

A series of cases of online gambling and telecom fraud incidents along the Thai-Myanmar border has threatened and harmed citizens of China and other countries, Wang was quoted as saying in a Foreign Ministry statement. Continued …

Thailand absent in global boobs size rankings

In a study by the World Population Review, Thailand is noticeably absent in the rankings of countries with the largest average boobs. The Scandinavian country of Norway has the biggest boobs, the survey reported.

This comprehensive report scrutinized 108 nations, unearthing intriguing correlations between body mass index (BMI) and breast size, while affirming that individual factors like genetics, diet, and age play significant roles in determining bust size. Continued …

Flood warning issued for southern Thailand

The northeast monsoon prevailing over the Gulf of Thailand, the south and the Andaman Sea will strengthen over the weekend, bringing isolated heavy downpours to the lower south, the Thai Meteorological Department warned today.

People in affected areas should beware of heavy rains and rain accumulations that may cause flash flooding and overflows, especially along the foothills, near waterways and low-lying land, it said, adding residents along the shores should beware of inshore surges. Continued …

Forest fires continue in Suphan Buri and Chon Buri

Massive forest fires, allegedly started by poachers four days ago, continue to rage in Suphan Buri, with approximately 1,000 rai of forest already damaged, officials have reported.

Volunteers, park rangers, and officials from relevant agencies joined forces yesterday morning to contain the fires, which have been spreading across forests on the mountain range in Tambon Plap Plachai and Tambon Ban Khong in Suphan Buri’s U Thong district for four consecutive days. Continued …

South Thailand unrest: Defense chief demands strategy overhaul

Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai called for a bold rethink of Thailand’s southern border strategy following a recent motorcycle bomb attack in Pattani that left defense volunteers and civilians injured.

In a scathing critique of current measures, Phumtham urged the National Security Council (NSC) to replace the ineffective cycle of lifting and reinstating emergency decrees with a more cohesive approach. Continued …

Thailand weighs in with some of the world’s fattest kids

Thailand is home to some of the fattest kids in the worl a new study has revealed. The kingdom finds itself grappling with a burgeoning child obesity crisis, ranking as the third worst in the ASEAN region, according to a recent study.

A staggering 84.1% of Thai children aged six to 14 are regularly munching on salty snacks, prompting urgent calls for action. Continued …

Thai man shoots cat with harpoon, allegedly to eat it

Police are searching for a Thai man who shot a cat with a harpoon in the Isaan province of Buriram, allegedly intending to eat the animal. The cat’s right eye was left blind following the severe attack.

The 68-year-old Thai man brought the injured cat, Kuay Tiew (meaning noodles), in a cage to a shelter at the Wang Krood Rescue Foundation in the Satuek district of Buriram province yesterday. Narong explained that he could not afford the treatment costs for Kuay Tiew and hoped rescuers could assist. Continued …

British explorer uncovers shocking truth at abandoned Phuket Zoo

A British explorer got more than he bargained for during a visit to Thailand’s abandoned Phuket Zoo, uncovering a hidden and haunting secret that left him and his viewers stunned.

British content creator Sean King, known for exploring deserted attractions on his YouTube channel @SeanKing5150, ventured into the defunct zoo. What he found was both extraordinary and deeply troubling. “I thought the animals had been rescued.” Continued …

Australian man’s flight crash threat lands him in jail – Continued …
Dutch national arrested in Bangkok for US$55,000 gold scam – Continued …

The Rise of Southeast Asia: A New Era in Global Manufacturing?

The Southeast Asia (SEA) region is rapidly positioning itself as one of the leading manufacturing hubs in the world, capturing the attention of global investors, manufacturers, and supply chain experts.

This growth is driven by competitive labor costs, strategic geographic location, and increasing government support for industrial development. Countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia are emerging as key players, attracting multinational corporations seeking to diversify their supply chains and reduce dependency on traditional manufacturing giants. Continued …

Entertainment complex plus online gambling?

The legalization of casinos in Thailand under the “Entertainment Complex” policy is progressing alongside efforts to legalize online gambling.

This aligns with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s comments in various forums about the significant underground economy fueled by gambling. Continued …

Former senator questions hidden motives behind online gambling legalization

Former senator Wallop Tangkhananurak has expressed doubts about the cabinet’s decision to legalize online gambling, warning that it could backfire on the government.

The decision was not included in the cabinet’s official resolution this week, but was revealed by Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong on Tuesday. Continued …

Bangkok Bank: Investment likely to keep flowing into Thailand

Bangkok Bank (BBL) expects sustained growth in foreign direct investment (FDI) into Thailand over the next few years, presenting significant opportunities for the Thai economy despite global uncertainties.

Speaking at the 2025 ASEAN Business Forum hosted by the bank yesterday, BBL President Chartsiri Sophonpanich said Thailand’s total investment applications through the Board of Investment surged by 35% in 2024 to reach a 10-year high of 1.14 trillion baht, driven by foreign investments in various sectors, including companies relocating operations to diversify their supply chains. Continued …

Leading organizations working to protect Thailand’s auto industry

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) is working with the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) to develop strategies that will safeguard the nation’s automotive industry, particularly amidst the rise of Chinese electric vehicles (EVs).

BOI Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi acknowledged the potential impact of Chinese EVs on Thailand’s existing internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle industry. Continued …

Thailand to sign historic free trade agreement with EFTA

Thailand is poised to sign a landmark free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Free Trade Assn. (EFTA) next week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that the signing ceremony would take place on Jan. 23, after which it would be placed before the Thai Parliament for ratification, a process expected to take approximately one year. Continued …

Haier mulling Bt10-billion factory expansion

Haier, a Chinese consumer electronics and home appliance company, is considering expanding its factory operations in Thailand with an investment of more than 10 billion baht this year. The company has held talks with the Thai government concerning its plan.

While Dong Jianping, president of Haier Electrical Appliances (Thailand), did not reveal the location, he said the new facility would produce washing machines, large refrigerators and commercial air conditioners. The plant would also feature advanced automation systems, reducing reliance on human labor. Continued …

Drunk tourists fuel brawls in Pattaya

Pattaya Beach, known for its stunning coastline and electrifying nightlife, is grappling with a surge in alcohol-fueled brawls involving unruly tourists. Once a haven for relaxation and revelry, the iconic destination has seen a troubling rise in disruptive incidents, leaving locals and officials concerned about the city’s reputation.

Reports reveal that drunken altercations have become an all-too-common sight, particularly after dark, in the bustling beach areas. Heated arguments, physical fights, and aggressive behaviors frequently disrupt the peace, posing safety risks to visitors and residents. Continued …

Thai airports brace for 4 million travelers over Chinese New Year

The Transport Ministry forecasts Thailand will be visited by over 4 million foreign tourists during the Chinese New Year festival, marking a 10.4% increase from last year.

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said foreign arrivals are expected to top 4 million in the week from Jan. 24 to Feb. 2, including around 770,000 from China – a 22.6% increase from the previous year. Continued …

Thailand positions itself as regional hub for cruise tourism

Cruise tourism, which combines luxury transport with a floating resort experience, is set for significant growth, the latest Cruise Tourism Global Market Report 2024 said. The sector is expected to grow from US$6.96 billion (240.81 billion baht) to $7.62 billion in 2025, reflecting a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5%.

Industry analysts predict the market with hit $10.85 billion by 2029, maintaining a steady CAGR of 9.2%. This expansion is driven primarily by the growing demand for luxury travel experiences, particularly among younger travelers. Continued …

Rice fields turned into art in northern Thailand

A two-acre paddy field in northern Thailand has been transformed into an artwork depicting a dragon and a cat, symbols of hope and resilience as the community recovers from floods.

The farm owner, Tanyapong Jaikham, said the cat represents the residents of his hometown Chiang Rai who faced devastating floods during last year’s monsoon season. The dragon, last year’s zodiac symbol, is shown protectively holding the cat. Continued …

Thai Chefs to Serve Bevy of Favorites at World Economic Forum

Thai culinary expertise will take center stage at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, as Chefcare’s Project Company partners with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present “Thailand Reception” under the theme “Nourishing The Future For All” on Jan. 22. The event will cater to approximately 500-600 global leaders and top executives.

The showcase will feature 12 buffet items, including traditional Thai favorites such as sticky rice with longan, crispy rubies dessert (Tab Tim Grob), Cho Muang (flower-shaped dumpling filled with minced chicken), Pad Thai, papaya salad, Thai-style grilled chicken, northern-style chili dip (Nam Prik Ong) with sticky rice and vegetables, basil stir-fry, green curry chicken, massaman lamb curry, and tom yum kung. Continued …

A Responsible Guide To Bangkok For Sustainably Minded Travelers

When it comes to places that have it all, few cities can compete with Bangkok. Thailand’s vibrant capital offers a sensory overload of bright colors, pungent odors, eye-popping structures and streets teeming with cars, tuk-tuks and food vendors.

Yet, for all its superlatives, buzzy Bangkok is not often associated with sustainability. Traffic congestion, air, water and noise pollution, excessive plastic usage, flooding, and unsatisfactory refuse collection processes are just some of the problems the Thai capital has to contend with. Continued …

Oligarchs already own much of US – can they buy democracy?

They increasingly own everything from access to space to how we get news on Earth and now outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden warns America’s new breed of Donald Trump-allied oligarchs could gobble up U.S. democracy itself. Continued …

Bus Tickets

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

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
State Railway – 1590

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Monday’s news-Dec 30

December 30, 2024 Hua Hin Expat News Leave a comment

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New Year festivities/Jimmy Carter has died/Hua Hin hotels report 95%+ bookings/PKK records 9.5 million tourists/Hua Hin Blues Fest/Tariff on wine imports eliminated/Police pickup truck crashes in Cha Am/93 Dead, 575 Injured in Road Crashes/Cost to see a doctor/South Korean jet crash/Heavy rain hits south/Elephant Ravages Local Farms/ECONOMY: Five megatrends for 2025/Bill short on benefits, big on casinos/Outlook for Thai agriculture/Thailand Joins BRICS/Tough year for the Thai stock exchange/TOURISM: 35+ million visitors/Hotel Fire Leaves 3 Tourists Dead/Japanese Tourist Stabbed to Death/Tourist boat capsizes off Koh Phangan/Tour Bus Crashes/Rain wreaks havoc in Surat Thani/Gridlock crisis: in Phuket/Airports offer free parking/Take care of own waste/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

Jimmy Carter, 39th US president and noted humanitarian, has died

Former President Jimmy Carter, honored more widely for his humanitarian work around the globe after his presidency than for his White House tenure during a tumultuous time, has died. He was 100.

Carter died Sunday in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. In November 2023, the Nobel Peace Prize-winner’s wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, also passed away in the modest house they built together in 1961, when he had taken over his father’s peanut warehouse business and was only beginning to consider a political career. Continued …

Hua Hin hotels report 95%+ bookings for New Year’s

Continued …

PKK records 9.5 million tourists Jan-Oct

Continued …

Hua Hin Blues Fest Jan 18

Continued …

54% tariff on wine imports eliminated ‘indefinitely’

Thailand is cutting alcohol taxes and tariffs in a bid to lower the cost of a night out and attract more tourists. A 54% tariff on wine imports will be “exempted indefinitely”, according to local media accounts of a Thai cabinet meeting, while excise duties on locally produced wine will be cut to 10% or below.

The measure is designed not only to expand the budding domestic industry, but also to add to supplies of less-expensive alcohol. The government had in recent years increased tariffs on wine in a bid to raise revenues. But in the wake of the Covid pandemic and border closures, the focus has changed to reviving the tourism industry. Continued …

Police pickup truck crashes into lamp post in Cha Am

A police pickup truck crashed into a lamp post, snapping it in two, resulting in injuries to a police lieutenant colonel and two passengers. The incident occurred on a roadside in Cha Am.

The pickup truck reportedly lost control and crashed into a roadside lamp post along Petchkasem Road heading south, at the 204+100 kilometer mark. The accident left the vehicle severely damaged, and emergency responders from Sawang Sanpheth Rescue and Cha Am Highway Rescue, along with EMS personnel from Cha Am Hospital, were dispatched to the scene. Continued …

93 Dead, 575 Injured in Two Days of New Year Road Crashes

A total of 93 fatalities and 575 injuries have been reported across Thailand over the first two days of the New Year’s holiday period, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM).

On Dec. 28, the second day of the 10-day safety campaign, there were 269 road crashes resulting in 257 injuries and 38 deaths. The primary cause of accidents was speeding, accounting for 38.3% of incidents, followed by poor visibility (21.6%) and sudden lane changes (19.3%). Continued …

How much does it cost to see a doctor in Thailand?

Thailand is known for its high-quality, yet affordable, healthcare system, but how much does it really cost to see a doctor? As an expat, this question might be crucial for budgeting your health needs. The answer depends on whether you have health insurance or not, and the difference can be significant.

Let’s explore the costs, compare insured versus uninsured expenses, and discuss why now is the perfect time to secure health insurance before 2025. Continued …

Two Thais among 176 dead in South Korean jet crash

At least 176 people have been confirmed dead after a Jeju Air passenger jet carrying 181 people crash-landed and exploded at Muan International Airport in South Korea.

The tragic accident, which occurred on Sunday morning, is one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the country’s history. Three persons are still listed as missing. Among the 175 passengers were two Thai nationals. Continued …

Cold air from China chills Thailand, heavy rain hits south

Cold air masses from China have draped over Thailand’s upper regions, bringing a chill to the air and a drop in temperatures ranging from cool to cold, especially in the mountainous areas. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts that these conditions are expected to persist, impacting various regions differently.

The northern and northeastern parts of the country are experiencing cold weather, with temperatures on mountain tops dropping to frigid levels. Citizens in these areas are advised to take health precautions against the cold and be wary of potential fires due to the dry air. Continued …

Wild Elephant in Musth Ravages Local Farms in Prachinburi

Residents in Prachinburi’s Na Di District are living in fear after a wild elephant in musth from Thap Lan National Park entered their farms, causing extensive damage to crops. The incident marks the third time this month the elephant has raided local farmland.

Reports indicate that the elephant entered a farm in Moo 6, Thung Pho subdistrict, at 1:25 am yesterday . Witnesses described the adult male elephant, approximately 25-centimeter long tusks and visibly in musth, with oily secretions from its temporal glands. Continued …

Five megatrends for 2025

2025 is just around the corner and everyone is looking for clues about the prospects for the global and domestic economies in the coming year. With Donald Trump set to return to the White House on Jan. 20, the U.S. factors seem difficult to predict given the personality of the president-elect billionaire we all learned from his first term.

Something the world can expect, however, is growing U.S. protectionism, through the proposed import tax hike Trump has clearly announced; countermeasures from the targeted countries, notably China, would put the global economy on the verge of turmoil. Here are five megatrends for 2025 from experts about their potential development in the year to come. Continued …

Entertainment complex bill said short on benefits, big on casinos

The bill that would set up entertainment complexes focuses more on having casinos rather than providing clarity about how the country will benefit from the revenue, the Stop Gambling Foundation says. It has slammed the bill, which the Finance Ministry plans to present to cabinet next month.

Thanakorn Komkrit, secretary-general of the foundation, on Saturday expressed concerns about the bill’s details, which “diverge significantly” from the initial Singapore model of opening a regulated entertainment complex business. Continued …

Outlook for Thai agricultural products

The Office of Agricultural Economics (OAE) has analyzed the outlook for Thai agricultural products in 2025. While several products show positive trends, others remain a concern.

Chantanon Wannakejohn, secretary-general of the OAE, said the GDP for the agricultural sector in 2025 is projected to grow by 1.8%-2.8%, valued between 698.55 billion and 705.41 billion baht. Key supporting factors include increased rainfall from the La Niña phenomenon, expected to persist until February. This will benefit dry-season crop cultivation, ensuring sufficient water for crop growth and subsequent planting cycles. Continued …

Thailand Agrees to Join BRICS

Thailand has formally accepted an invitation from Russia to become a BRICS partner state. The BRICS group, which includes key global players like Russia, China, India, and Brazil, serves as a coalition of emerging economies that positions itself as an alternative to Western-dominated frameworks.

The official invitation to Thailand was extended on Oct. 31, 2023, coinciding with Russia’s impending chairmanship of the group in 2024. Continued …

Scandals and slumping market: A tough year for the Thai stock exchange

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) faced one of its most challenging years in recent memory in 2024. Compared to other markets in Asia and ASEAN, the SET has struggled, with performance indicators lagging behind its regional counterparts. The Thai market’s outlook in 2024 has been marred by a series of high-profile financial scandals, leading to a substantial loss of investor confidence and market instability.

Throughout the year, the SET has seen a downturn in performance. Market indices have underperformed, and trading volumes have decreased, reflecting a broader lack of investor confidence. Continued …

Thailand welcomes 35+ million visitors in 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced that international tourist arrivals have surpassed the target of 35 million visitors in 2024, generating over 1.8 trillion baht in tourism revenue.

This achievement highlights Thailand’s strong tourism rebound and sets the foundation for an even greater year ahead, as 2025 has been declared the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year”. Continued …

Hotel Fire Near Khao San Road Leaves 3 Tourists Dead, Many Rescued From Roof

A fire at The Amber Hotel on Tani Road, near Bangkok’s popular Khao San Road, has claimed three lives and left several others injured. The incident has prompted Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt to order the temporary closure of the hotel to ensure the building meets safety standards.

The fire, which occurred last night, broke out on the fifth floor of the six-story hotel. Initial reports confirmed one fatality, but the death toll later rose to three as two victims succumbed to their injuries in hospital. Continued …

Stabbing Incident in Pattaya Leaves Japanese Tourist Dead

A violent altercation testerday resulted in the fatal stabbing of a 27- year-old Japanese man. The victim succumbed to his injuries despite resuscitation efforts.

Upon arrival, the vistim was found lying in a pool of blood with a severe stab wound to his chest. Bystanders were attempting to revive him as rescue workers administered first aid and performed CPR. The victim was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where he later passed away. Continued …

Tourist boat capsizes off Koh Phangan, Korean national missing

A long-tail boat carrying passengers from Koh Phangan capsized after being struck by massive waves, leaving 13 passengers adrift in the sea and one Korean national missing.

The incident, which occurred yesterday, has raised serious concerns about safety regulations, as it was revealed that the boat’s captain was under the influence of drugs, and none of the passengers were wearing life jackets. The boat was carrying a total of 13 people, including 10 passengers and three crew members. Continued …

Tour Bus Crashes into Lorry: 17 Injured as Driver Admits to Picking Up Mobile Phone

A tourist bus carrying 43 international passengers collided with a lorry transporting rubber sheets on the Asia Highway 41 in Chumphon province early this morning, leaving 17 injured. The incident occurred at near the Wat Phangun curve in Sawi district.

According to police reports, the double-decker bus, which was chartered to transport foreign tourists from Bangkok’s Khaosan Road to Surat Thani, crashed into the lorry when the 71-year-old Thai driver admitted to bending down to retrieve his mobile phone. Continued …

Torrential rain wreaks havoc in Surat Thani, Koh Phangan hit hard

Torrential rain drenched several districts in Surat Thani, leading to a significant runoff on the tourist hotspot of Koh Phangan Saturday. The deluge resulted in substantial disruptions, including a dramatic incident in Ban Thong Nai Pan, Ban Tai subdistrict, where a pickup truck was carried away by the forceful waters.

Government offices in Koh Phangan, including the district office, police station, and Surat Thani Immigration Office, found themselves surrounded by floodwaters. Roads in front of prominent locations such as the Koh Phangan district hall, a supermarket, and local convenience stores were rendered impassable for smaller vehicles due to the relentless runoff from the surrounding hills. Continued …

Gridlock crisis: Phuket’s billion-baht boom sparks urgent action

Provincial officials have vowed to tackle Phuket’s surging traffic chaos as the island’s tourism industry hits record-breaking highs. Gov. Sophon Suwannarat chaired a high-stakes meeting with key stakeholders last week to address infrastructure challenges threatening the island’s reputation.

With over 10 million visitors in 2023 generating 388 billion baht in revenue — a 100.4% increase from 2022 — Phuket is reeling from the strain on its roads and public transport systems. Thepkrasattri Road (Route 402), the island’s main artery, remains a bottleneck for locals and tourists. Continued …

Bangkok airports offer free parking for new year travelers

Bangkok is preparing for the upcoming new year holiday with special travel measures to facilitate passenger movement. Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports are set to provide free parking and continuous shuttle services. This initiative runs from today until Jan. 1 to ease holiday travel.

At Don Mueang Airport, free parking is offered at the lot between Cargo Building 2 and the five-story car park, catering to 250 vehicles. Shuttle buses are scheduled every 15 minutes, ensuring passengers can conveniently reach Terminal 1, Gate 6. Continued …

Hikers told to take care of own waste

Visitors at Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei generated over 4.5 tons of waste between Oct. 1 and Dec. 27, park chief Adison Hemathanon said on Sunday, before urging tourists to dispose their waste to protect the park’s natural environment.

Since the park reopened on Dec. 23, authorities have been asking tourists to bring any waste they could see along the trail with them to be disposed properly, as part of their effort to keep the park in a pristine condition. Continued …

Bus Tickets

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm