Tag Archives: hua hin landfill

bangkok, cha am, climate change, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-May 13

Today’s news: Hua Hin, Cha Am condo market/Landfill fire extinguished/What’s the story about closed landfill?/Training in Hua Hin/Hua Hin Marathon/Thailand on high alert/Korean Man Discovered in reservoir/Thailand’s Elite visa for criminal activity?/Cancer patients get help/Escalating Myanmar refugee crisis/Economy: Finance Ministry Moves to 7% VAT/Thailand Gambling on Entertainment Complex with Casino/Thais doubt wage hike will happen as planned/Japanese corporations wooed/Thai Airways’ journey/Formal Study on Cannabis/Pro-weed groups put heat on government/Tourism: Hua Hin Marriott earns award/Thailand Experience: Surin silk mavens/Glamping in the jungles/Things to do in Chonburi/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental 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

Hua Hin, Cha Am condo market strong in Q1

The real estate market in the first quarter of 2024 saw significant growth, particularly in tourist cities like Phuket, Pattaya and Hua Hin.

While Bangkok lagged behind with 2,300 condo units launched, Phuket and Pattaya each exceeded 3,000 units. Additionally, Cha Am, Hua Hin, and Pranburi saw a surge in the condominium market, with two new projects for sale totaling 671 units, the highest number in the past 12 quarters. Continued …

Landfill fire in Hua Hin extinguished

The fire at an abandoned landfill in Hua Hin has been successfully extinguished after burning for eight days.

The fire began on May 4 at the old landfill site, spanning over 27 rai in the Thap Tai subdistrict, causing significant concern among local residents. The combined efforts of multiple governmental agencies were required to manage the situation. Continued …

What’s the story about closed landfill?

A landfill in Hua Hin, inactive for several years, became the center of attention once again following the significant fire that broke out last week. The incident has reignited concerns over waste-management practices and policies in the region. #huahinlandfill

Located in the Thap Tai subdistrict, the landfill site had been in operation since 1994, serving as the primary disposal site for Hua Hin’s municipal waste. For nearly two decades, it functioned continuously until it evolved into a large mountain of waste. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Olympic boxing competitors training in Hua Hin

The Legend Arena Hua Hin, in collaboration with the German Amateur Boxing Assn., is hosting boxers from 15 countries in preparation for the Olympic qualifiers. The training camp, part of the Olympic Pre-Camp Cha Am & Hua Hin 2024, runs from May 8-21.

Athletes from nations including Germany, Saudi Arabia, Mongolia, Iceland, and New Zealand are participating in the camp at The Legend Arena, a 1,000-square-meter facility located at BluPort. The camp serves as a preliminary event to the 2nd World Qualifying Tournament Boxing Road To Paris–Bangkok 2024, which will take place from May 24 to June 2 at the indoor stadium Hua Mak in Bangkok. Continued …

Over 3,500 runners compete in Hua Hin Marathon

The Hua Hin Marathon, now in its fourth year, drew over 3,500 runners from both Thailand and abroad on Sunday. #huahinmarathon

The event, held at the Wat Khao Krai Lart grounds in Hua Hin, was officiated by Komkrit Charoenphatthanasombat, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Dr. Rungroj Sileuangsawat. Continued … 

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Thailand on high alert for intense geomagnetic storm

Thailand is currently bracing for a severe geomagnetic storm, the likes of which haven’t been recorded in recent history. The storm, reaching a level 7 intensity, is expected to present two significant effects: mesmerizing auroras for high-latitude regions and potential disruptions to satellite communications.

This forecast emerged following recent solar flare activities, which have been closely monitored by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA). Since the evening of May 10, officials have been on high alert. Continued …

Missing Korean Man Discovered in Chon Buri Reservoir encased in cement

A disturbing discovery unfolded in Chon Buri as authorities stumbled upon a human body encased in concrete inside a 200-liter barrel at the Map Prachan reservoir in Bang Laung district. The remains are believed to belong to a 34-year-old Korean man who had been reported missing earlier.

Roh Eui Jong went missing on May 3, prompting an extensive search effort. The situation took a grim turn when investigators found that all of the victim’s fingers had been severed, likely in an attempt to hinder identification. Continued …

Are foreigners using Thailand’s Elite visa for criminal activity?

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) is currently investigating foreign nationals residing in Thailand under elite visas, suspected of engaging in shady business transactions and money laundering. #thailandvisa

This investigation was initiated following the disclosure of 52-year-old Chinese suspect, Chen, who utilized a Thailand Privilege Card visa to reside in the country and launder substantial sums of money for call center scam gangs. Continued …

Cancer patients get more help

The Social Security Board (SSB) has approved a proposal to improve cancer patients’ access to treatment resources under the Social Security system, said the Social Security Office (SSO) on Saturday. #thailandcancer

The decision was reached at a meeting on Wednesday and makes it easier for a patient diagnosed with cancer to find a healthcare facility specializing in the treatment of cancer, said Dr. Thana Turajane, chairman of the board’s medical committee. Continued …

Escalating Myanmar refugee crisis brings untold dangers

Thailand must act quickly to avert a major crisis amid a growing exodus of people fleeing conscription and conflict in neighboring Myanmar.

The influx is rising fast in border towns such as Mae Sot, where rights groups are calling for policies that temporarily grant refugees legal status and a screening mechanism that meets international human rights standards. Continued …

Finance Ministry Moves to Introduce 7% VAT on Inexpensive Imported Items

The Finance Ministry is set to present a proposal this week to revise the Revenue Code, imposing a 7% value added tax (VAT) on all imported goods valued under 1,500 baht. #thailandvat

This move aims to level the playing field between local suppliers, who are already subject to VAT, and online overseas sellers who have been exempt from this tax. Continued …

Thailand Gambling on Integrated Entertainment Complex with Casino

Thai Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has revealed plans for a new integrated entertainment complex that will include a casino, but with restrictions on its size. The casino component will be limited to no more than 5% of the overall project area. #thailandcasino

Similar to Singapore’s model, where gambling areas make up only 3% of the total complex, the Thai government aims to strike a balance between entertainment offerings and responsible gambling. Continued …

Thais doubt wage hike will happen as planned

Most people agree with the government’s plan to expand the daily minimum wage across Thailand but doubt it will happen as expected, according to an opinion survey by the National Institute of Development Administration. #thailandminimumwage

The Nida poll was conducted on 1,310 people aged 18 years and over from May 3 to 7. It found that 82.9% of surveyed people wanted the increase in the daily minimum wage. Continued … 

Japanese corporations wooed to invest in Thailand

The Commerce Ministry invited members of the Japan Business Federation, also known as “Keidanren”, to invest in Thailand’s medical equipment, railway, aircraft, innovation, and clean energy industries, highlighting the kingdom’s suitability as a manufacturing base.

Thai trade delegates led by Deputy PM and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai met with executives of Keidanren, led by Suzuki Jun, chair of Japan-Thailand Trade and Economic Committee, at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo on Friday. Continued …

Thai Airways’ journey from bankruptcy to recovery

Thai Airways International has announced plans to finalize its restructuring efforts later this year, marking a remarkable comeback from the financial woes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The airline, based in Bangkok, has been working tirelessly to reduce its debts and revamp its operations amid a sharp decline in air travel caused by the global health crisis. Continued …

Anutin Announces Formal Study on Cannabis Legal Status

Cannabis supporters are gearing up to protest the government’s plan to classify cannabis as a narcotic drug. They vow to gather outside the Ministry of Public Health until solid scientific evidence supports the move. #thailandmarijuana

Prasitchai Nunual, from the Cannabis Future Network, insists that any decision by the ministry must be based on scientific proof of cannabis’s benefits and risks compared to alcohol and cigarettes. Continued …

Pro-weed groups put heat on government

The government is facing increasing pressure from pro-cannabis groups, which are threatening to rally at the Ministry of Public Health from Thursday until the ministry can prove that cannabis deserves to be reclassified as a narcotic drug.

In the meantime, groups of farmers licensed to grow cannabis plants since before the decriminalization of cannabis in 2022, on Sunday backed the government’s vow to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic drug again. Continued …

Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa earns Tripadvisor award

Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa, the five-star resort on Thailand’s gulf coast, has been named as one of the top 10 hotels and resorts in Thailand and received a prestigious “Best of the Best” award from Tripadvisor 2024, the world’s leading travel review site. #huahinmarriott

In the latest Travelers’ Choice Awards, Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa achieved a perfect “five bubble” rating on Tripadvisor’s global site, from more than 3,500 reviews. This quality and consistency of ratings placed it as the 10th best place to stay in Thailand. Continued …

Surin silk mavens still weaving their spell

Thai sericulture is trying to adapt to the growth of technology and the impact of global warming, with support from authorities and overseas experts. #surinsilk

Phayaram, a small village in tambon Phearam of Muang district in the northeastern province of Surin, is home to 122 households and a population of 523 people. Continued …

Glamping in the jungles of Thailand

The sun is setting and the noise from the jungle, a noise that I had assumed was an industrial plant over the hill somewhere processing timber with a large number of circular saws… turns out to be cicadas.

Gradually, as the light fades, so does the symphony of cicadas, until we’re left with a few chirping crickets, the odd gibbon hoot and tiny ripples on the water in front of our floating tent. Continued …

10 things to do in Chonburi

The latest edition of The Michelin Guide Thailand, set to be released later this year, is expanding its coverage to include Chonburi, the seaside province nearest to Bangkok.

Situated on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Chonburi has long been considered a tourism hotspot for locals and foreigners alike. Among other things, the coastal province is home to idyllic islands, ravishing resorts, beautiful beaches, lovely landmarks, as well as the birthplace of the world-famous Sriracha sauce. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news 

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

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

 

hua hin, immigration, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-May 11

Today’s news: Landfill area declared disaster zone/Heat stroke claims 61/Thai Street Food Magic/Southern girl wins young farmers award/Thailand’s hidden population/Taking down influential figures in Phuket/Schooling expenses up 43%/Thai babies for sale online/Workers vie for 5,000 jobs in Israel/Economy: Thailand’s FTA with EU/Minimum wage increase affects hotel industry/Foreign owners of cannabis shops targeted/Cannabis: Protests and Lawsuits Loom/Tourism: Promoting low-season tourism/Maya Bay named again/Thailand Experience: Ploughing ceremony predicts prosperity/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

Thap Thai in Hua Hin declared disaster zone, landfill fire continues

In response to the landfill fire that has been raging for over a week, the Thap Thai subdistrict in Hua Hin has been declared a disaster area, enabling officials to use significant resources to combat the blaze.

Officials say they expect the fire to be extinguished within the next two days. The fire, which started approximately one week ago due to extremely hot weather conditions, has consumed a massive pile of garbage accumulated over more than a decade at the old landfill site, which spans 170 acres at Moo 1, Ban Nong Pranpuk. Continued …

Heat stroke claims 61 lives this year

The health ministry said Friday that 61 people have died from heatstroke since the beginning of 2024, compared with 37 in the whole of 2023. Thailand’s northeast — the agricultural heartland — saw the highest number of deaths, the ministry said. Continued …

Khrua Charoenkrung’s Thai Street Food Magic

If you’re headed to the Hua Hin night markets but are looking for a local gem restaurant that is quiet and away from the bustling crowd with a menu full of hits, walk five minutes away from the market and head toward Khrua Charoenkrung. The service here is genuinely sweet and lovely and the female-only team serve and cook for their devoted clientele of Thais and visitors from neighboring resorts with wide smiles.

The restaurant is clean with a breezy vibe, with a couple of outdoor tables and half a dozen inside tables. Start with a pressed juice – they have rosella, a tangy sweet juice or chrysanthemum that is sweet and syrupy for 15THB each. There’s also beers and soda water, as well as the usual soft drink selection. Continued …

‘Never stop practicing’ earns southern girl young farmers award

Strong determination to learn is bearing fruit for a 15-year-old girl from Phatthalung as she earns the young farmer award this year on Royal Ploughing Day yesterday.

Rattanakarn Nualchan’s work has made her outstanding among young farmers in the southern province. She took a leading role in agricultural projects from growing rice, gardening vegetables and feeding fish, all friendly to the environment, at Ban Teng School in her home district of Khuan Khanun. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Thailand’s hidden population exposed

Thailand’s population secrets are out in the open, and the numbers are staggering. According to National Statistical Office (NSO) Deputy Director Suwannee Wangkan, a whopping 9.25 million people unofficially inhabit the Land of Smiles, with the vast majority flocking to Bangkok for work and study, shining a harsh spotlight on the nation’s deepening wealth gap.

This clandestine population, constituting 13.2% of Thailand’s total populace of 70 million, comprises two main groups: the 8.4 million non-registered population who reside outside their native province without formal registration, and an additional 850,000 commuter population who traverse daily for work or studies beyond their home turf. Continued …

Deputy PM sets sights on taking down influential figures in Phuket

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has launched a campaign to curb the influence of powerful Thai and foreign figures in Phuket. The announcement of this initiative was made to 550 officers at the Phuket Provincial Police Station, targeting criminal networks backed by these influential figures.

The campaign’s main goal is to tackle various criminal activities in the region. Special attention will be given to drug trafficking, illegal gambling, human trafficking, and environmental degradation, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and tourists. Continued …

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Survey finds schooling expenses have gone up 43% to a 15-year high

The cost of schooling is at an all-time high because of higher tuition fees, instruction fees and increasing prices of school supplies, amounting to an estimated 60.322 billion baht, the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) said.

Thanawan Polwichai, advisory chairman of the UTCC’s Center for Economic and Business Forecast, said the survey on “Cost of back to school 2024 for guardians” had 1,365 respondents throughout the country and was conducted from May 1-6. Continued …

Thai babies for sale online

A well-known Thai Facebook page has reported that a group of people were selling their babies via a Facebook group, now inaccessible.

Pakpoom Dechhasdin, also known as “More Lab Panda”, posted a picture showing that large number of posts captured from Thai netizens in the group showed that some were seeking to pay a sum of money for Thai female babies from the northern part of Thailand. Continued …

30,000 Thai workers vie for quota of 5,000 jobs in Israel

More than 30,000 Thai workers are seeking employment in Israel, while Thailand has received a quota of 5,000 positions in the Middle Eastern country’s agricultural sector for the second half of this year, according to the Department of Employment (DoE).

DoE Director-general Somchai Morakotsriwan said Israel remains attractive to Thais looking for jobs overseas, and 30,186 people have expressed interest in working there. Continued …

Thailand expects to wrap up FTA with EU this year, pushes visa-free entry

Thailand aims to reach a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) within this year while hoping to secure visa-free entry for Thai passport holders to Schengen countries, newly appointed Prime Minister’s Office Minister Jakkapong Sangmanee said.

“The FTA will not only stimulate economic growth in both regions, but also benefit their businesses and supply chain,” he said. Continued …

Minimum wage increase pledge sparks hotel industry crisis

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s promise to boost the minimum wage to 400 baht by Oct. 1 has set off alarms in the private sector, particularly among hoteliers. Concerns abound as businesses foresee a hefty 15% to 20% surge in costs across goods and services, presenting a formidable hurdle for the hospitality sector.

The impending wage revision marks the third adjustment this year alone. The initial increase, rolled out on Jan. 1, nudged the minimum wage to an average range of 330 to 370 baht per day, contingent on provincial variations. Continued …

Foreign owners of cannabis shops targeted

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered the arrest of foreigners operating cannabis outlets illegally in Thailand. The widely criticized decision follows a government-led initiative to upscale the regulation of recreational marijuana trading in the country.

The minister’s proclamation comes in the wake of an edict from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the controversial call to reclassify cannabis as a banned narcotic. This impending shift could lead to the closure of nearly 8,000 marijuana retail outlets. Continued …

Thai U-Turn on Cannabis: Protests and Lawsuits Loom

Thailand’s recent decision to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has sparked widespread outrage, threatening to ignite street protests and cause a flurry of lawsuits brought by an industry built on the promise of decriminalization.

Two years ago, Thailand decriminalised cannabis, classing it as a “controlled herb” and leaving its recreational use unrestricted. The move spurred the creation of almost 8,000 dispensaries dotting every corner of the country. Yet, these shop owners now face the specter of complete re-criminalization with Thavisin’s order to redraw cannabis as a category five narcotic. Continued …

Tourism Authority prepares plans to promote low-season tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is preparing to launch a project that promotes 72 must-do activities in Thailand in early July to stimulate tourism during the low season.

TAT will pick 72 activities for travelers to enjoy, mainly from five categories: Muay Thai, food, culture, clothes and shows. Continued … 

Maya Bay named world’s 5th most beautiful beach in the world

Krabi’s Maya Bay was named the fifth-best beach in the world this year, as per a survey conducted by London-based startup, Beachatlas.

The ranking was granted based on criteria like natural beauty, vibrant lifestyles, inclusive atmosphere, deep-rooted community ties and significant cultural heritage. Continued …

Ploughing ceremony predicts abundance, prosperity

Abundant food and water, growth in foreign trade and a prosperous economy were predicted during the Royal Ploughing Ceremony at Sanam Luang in Bangkok yesterday morning.

The annual ceremony, presided over by the king and queen, marks the traditional start of the rice-growing season in the country. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

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, climate change, exports, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-May 9

2 Comments

Today’s news: Landfill fire sparks health concerns/Pranburi Bar Owner Arrested/Hua Hin Food Festival/EV recharge station on Phetkasem Road/Children affected by high heat/Tipping ‘rules’ explained for Thailand/Baby elephant stuck in mud/Economy: Cannabis Shops to Close by April 1/UOB slashes GDP growth/Reshaping the job landscape/Digital wallet eligibility tweaked/Thailand and Vietnam rice battle/To speed up free trade negotiations/Undeterred by record gold prices/Tourism: Canada warns against travel to southern Thailand/Lampang tour bus crash/Clash on Kuwait Airways Flight/Free water to drought-hit Koh Larn/Foreign child pees outside Thai temple/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/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

Fire at landfill site in Hua Hin sparks health concerns

The acrid smell that has filled the air over Hua Hin for several days is due to a fire at an old landfill site in Thap Thai, off Soi 112.

Yesterday, the governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan ordered a large-scale mobilization of resources in response to the stubborn landfill fire that has been smoldering for five days. Continued …

Pranburi Bar Owner Arrested for Alleged Minor Trafficking

Police have arrested a karaoke bar owner in Pranburi district for suspected minor trafficking focused on sex trade. The arrest followed a tip-off from an anti-trafficking group about probable unlawful operations in the bar, including the involvement of individuals below 18.

An undercover investigation by the Crime Suppression Division revealed the allegations to be true. This led to the arrest of the 46-year-old bar owner, Anong, who ran the establishment, on charges of trafficking minors for sexual exploitation. Continued …

Hua Hin Food Festival set for August 2-4

The Hua Hin Food Festival 2024 is scheduled to take place from August 2-4 at Queen’s Park 19 Rai, beachside. #huahinfoodfestival

The event will feature stalls from renowned restaurants and top hotels in Hua Hin District, offering local dishes at affordable prices. Continued … 

Bangchat opens EV recharge station on Phetkasem Road

A new EV charging station, which is being touted as the largest of its kind in southern Thailand, has opened on Phetkasem Road in central Hua Hin. The station is located next to Bangchak Corp.’s new lifestyle mall, “The Chlorophyll @ Hua Hin. #huahinev

The new station boasts what the company says is the largest EV pavilion in southern Thailand, featuring eight electric vehicle fast-charging stations, catering to the growing demand for EV infrastructure in the region. Continued …

Over 10 million children affected by high heat in Thailand

Rain has finally brought relief to Thailand, but the country is still recovering from the record-breaking heatwave that gripped Southeast Asia throughout April and early May.

Three dozen districts across Thailand’s 77 provinces saw record temperatures in April, with 26 provinces suffering from heat soaring over 40 degrees Celsius. Continued …

Tipping ‘rules’ explained for Thailand, Asia

tourists in China and Japan have been warned over a little-known “tipping;” rule. Tipping is not expected in either country, with service seen as part of the meal you have paid for, tourists have been warned, but some tourist areas – like Thailand and Vietnam – are noticing a shift in attitudes. #thailandtipping

Travel expert Justin Chapman at Go2Africa said, “Tipping is becoming more common in tourist areas. A small tip of around 10 percent is a nice gesture but isn’t expected. In Indonesia, five to 10 percent is appreciated if a service charge hasn’t already been included.” Continued …

Wildlife officers help baby elephant stuck in mud

Thailand wildlife officers rescued a baby elephant that was stuck in mud as they patrolled a forest for poachers last week. Rangers discovered the three-year-old animal while conducting searches at Thap Lan National Park in Prachinburi province.

They dug around the hole and laid down thin branches to create an angled pathway for the elephant to climb. The rangers were unsuccessful so returned the next day with more equipment, but the elephant had gone and adult footprints were found in the area. National park head Prawatsart Chanthep said the youngster was retrieved by its mother and their herd. Video …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Cannabis Shops to Close by April 1, 2025; Thai PM Orders Drug Rescheduling

In a pivotal meeting attended by the prime minister and three senior ministers, PM Srettha Thavisin announced that cannabis shops in Thailand are to be shut down by April 1, 2025. #thailandmarijuana

He has called for the reclassification of cannabis as a scheduled narcotic substance by the end of 2024. This comes as part of a larger strategy to clamp down on drug usage in Thailand. Continued …

UOB slashes GDP growth to 2.4%

Singapore-based United Overseas Bank (UOB) is preparing to downgrade Thailand’s GDP growth forecast this year to 2.4% from 2.8%, though it expects the Bank of Thailand to trim interest rates twice to 2% by year-end to prop up the economy.

Enrico Tanuwidjaja, economist and senior vice president for global economics and market research at UOB Group, cited persistent weak domestic demand and delayed stimulus measures for the revision, although tourism and exports have recovered. Continued … 

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

How Thai youth are reshaping the job landscape

In South Korea, which is known for its thriving entertainment industry, working as a TV or film producer wins immediate respect. Careers in this field are actively encouraged, with the Korean government spending 21 billion baht in 2022 to support content industry start-ups and on setting up academies for would-be entertainment professionals.

The situation is very different in Thailand, where parents usually frown at any ambitions their offspring might have to pursue a career in music or entertainment, regarding it as an unsteady profession. Instead, they push the kids toward prestigious and well-paid careers in the medical or business fields. Continued …

Digital wallet eligibility terms tweaked

The government has added a new condition for its digital wallet handout, saying recipients must not have more than 500,000 baht in their deposit accounts as of March 31. #digitalwallet

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat outlined the new terms on Wednesday after a meeting of the subcommittee that is overseeing the program. Continued …

Thailand and Vietnam battle it out for rice export ranking

Thailand and Vietnam are racing for second place as the world’s top rice exporter this year, as India, although still in first place, could see a significant drop in rice exports year on year due to internal policies, the Thai Rice Exporters Assn. (TREA) said on Tuesday. #thailandrice

Statistics for the first quarter of 2024 revealed that India had exported the most rice at 4.3 million tons, a drop of 28.1% year on year, said TREA. Continued …

Department seeks to speed up free trade negotiations

The Department of Trade Negotiations is pushing for free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with trading partners to expand trade and investment opportunities, as well as strengthen the economy.

Director-general Chotima Iemsawasdikul said the agenda for the second half includes concluding Thailand-EFTA (European Free Trade Assn.) negotiations by the end of the year (a 10th round is scheduled for August in Switzerland), the third round of Thailand-EU FTA talks in June in Belgium, and discussing an FTA with South Korea in the middle of this year, with talks expected to conclude by the end of 2025 or early 2026. Continued …

Thais undeterred by record gold prices, demand remains strong

Despite record-high prices, Thailand’s gold demand remains strong, with bar and coin investment showing robust growth in contrast to declining demand for gold jewelry, according to the World Gold Council (WGC) first-quarter Gold Demand Trends Report.

The report, released yesterday, shows that Thailand’s demand for gold bar and coin investment increased by 10% year on year to 5.9 tons compared with the same period in 2023. Thailand’s total consumer demand increased by 4% year on year, despite record high prices. Continued …

Bus driver dies, 29 passengers hurt in Lampang tour bus crash

A bus driver died and 29 passengers, both Thai and international, were injured- with two sustaining serious injuries- following a bus crash on Tuesday night. The tour bus was en route from Chiang Mai to Bangkok when it lost control, veered off the road and hit a tree.

The incident took place on Phahonyothin Road, Ban Mae Tia, in the Thoen district of Lampang province. The driver was entrapped in the steering wheel and was declared dead at the scene despite emergency workers’ efforts to free him using hand tools. Continued … 

Passengers Clash on Kuwait Airways Flight from Bangkok

A Kuwait Airways flight from Bangkok to Kuwait was forced to return after a violent confrontation erupted among a group of female passengers from Kuwait. The situation intensified to such an extent that even the plane’s security officer was assaulted.

With safety being the utmost priority, the pilot made the critical decision to reroute the aircraft back to Bangkok International Airport to restore order. Continued …

Pattaya officials provide free water to drought-hit Koh Larn island

Residents of Koh Larn breathed a sigh of relief as the governor of Chon Buri, and city officials made their way to the island on May 7, bearing the gift of water. Thailand’s ongoing dry season had left the locals parched, thereby leading to this much-needed intervention that saw the distribution of 100,000 liters of free water.

This act of generosity touched more than 50 households on the island. With each receiving approximately 2,000 liters of water, the residents could resume their daily activities without undue concern over water scarcity. Continued …

Outrage erupts as foreign child pees outside Thai temple

The Thai tourism and sports minister and netizens nationwide condemned a foreign couple for allowing their daughter to urinate in public at Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, in Bangkok. However, many Thais felt that the foreigners’ actions were not so serious.

Wat Phra Kaew, also known as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram, is located within the Grand Palace. The urination took place behind one of the temple’s halls near a palace building. Continued …

AstraZeneca to withdraw Covid vaccine globally

The pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca says it has initiated the worldwide withdrawal of its Covid-19 vaccine due to a “surplus of available updated vaccines” since the pandemic. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news 

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

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

 

covid, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-May 8

Today’s news: Caps on diesel, cooking gas, power/Hua Hin crops suffer from storm/Rain to affect 54 provinces/Hospital admissions for Covid rise again/Hua Hin Marathon Sunday/Hua Hin landfill on fire/Hua Hin’s “Quiet Luxury” lifestyle/Centara Grand Beach Resort turns 101/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Chambers, trade groups oppose 400 baht wage/Shippers anticipate 1%-2% export growth/Fixing Thailand’s cannabis regulations/Minister seeks cannabis views/Tourism: Krabi calls for water investment/Visa waiver extended for Indians, Taiwanese/Travel growth expected in Asia-Pacific/Thailand Experience: ‘wellness’ culture of Koh Phangan/Rare ‘tiger cat’ caught on video/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

Caps on diesel, cooking gas, power to continue for now

The Cabinet has given the go-ahead to extend three subsidies in a bid to continue easing people’s financial burden, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Tuesday.

The measures are: Capping the retail price of diesel at 33 baht per lit; capping cooking gas at 423 baht per 15kg canister; capping electricity at 19.05 baht per unit for households using less than 300 units per month. Continued …

Hua Hin suffers agricultural losses following Tuesday’s storm

A powerful summer storm on Tuesday left a trail of destruction across several districts, with local farms, particularly durian orchards, bearing the brunt of the damage. Tuesday’s storm was the first significant rainfall the region has seen in nearly five months. #huahin

In Ban La-oo, over one ton of nearly ripe durians were knocked to the ground, causing losses estimated at more than 300,000 baht. The storm, which struck in the afternoon, also resulted in structural damages to homes and agricultural facilities in the area. Continued … 

Rain, heavy at times, to affect 54 provinces

Much of Thailand will again experience thundershowers, with gusty winds and isolated heavy rains today due to the confluence of southeasterly and southerly winds prevailing over the upper part of the country, the Thai Meteorological Department said this morning.

The department warned residents in the upper part of the country to expect severe weather conditions and advised them to keep away from large trees and unsecured billboards. Farmers should take measures to prevent damage to crops and livestock. Continued …

Hospital admissions for Covid rise again

Reported cases of Covid-19 have continued to rise over the past week, with 1,792 patients hospitalized and 12 dying of the disease, the Department of Disease Control said on Monday.

It reported the daily number of hospitalized patients and fatalities increased by 256 and two between April 28 and May 4. Continued … 

Hua Hin landfill on fire

Authorities have stepped up efforts to contain a significant fire at a landfill site in Hua Hin, which has left residents enduring smoke-filled air for two days.

The fire erupted at a 170-rai (67-acre) landfill in Ban Nong Phran Phuk, Thap Tai subdistrict on May 4, initially being controlled before reigniting and spreading over more than 20 rai (8 acres), officials said. Continued …

Developer cites Hua Hin’s “Quiet Luxury” lifestyle

Charn Issara Group is one of many developers venturing into the city of Hua Hin, a location growing in luxury real estate development. The company says the area appeals to affluent Thais seeking a “quiet luxury” lifestyle.

For the past decade, the Issara family, in collaboration with the Chokwatana family, has embarked on real estate ventures in Hua Hin through Issara United Co. The journey began with the development of the Tew Talay World Cha Am–Hua Hin project, initially situated on Chokwatana-owned land. Subsequently, the team expanded their portfolio with the Sasa Hua Hin and SASARA Hua Hin projects in Khao Takiab. Continued …

Hua Hin’s Centara Grand Beach Resort turns 101

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin turns 101 this year. It first opened in 1923, during the reign of King Rama VI, when it was The Railway Hotel, and was one of the first beach resorts in Thailand. #centarahuahin

Centara Hotels & Resorts took over the beachside property in 1986, renovated it and rebranded it to Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin. The hotel sits on a beautiful beachfront, leased from the State Railway of Thailand. However, the property is considered the second hotel under Centara Hotels & Resorts, while Centara’s first property is Centara Grand Ladprao Bangkok, which opened in 1983. Continued …

  • American man, wanted in the US for sexual offenses, arrested in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Polish Man Arrested for Allegedly Working Illegally – Continued …
  • Russian Arrested in Phuket for Alleged Illegal Online Work – Continued …
Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Chambers, trade groups jointly oppose 400 baht minimum wage

Chambers of commerce and labor-intensive trade associations across the country say they oppose increasing the minimum wage to 400 baht nationwide, citing economic disparities and varying business readiness across provinces and industries, which could impact the country’s competitiveness. #thailandwage

A total of 76 chambers of commerce and 54 trade associations have joined in opposition to the government’s plan. Continued …

Shippers’ Council anticipates 1%-2% export growth

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) is confident exports will grow by 1%-2% this year and suggested the planned hike in the daily minimum wage must be considered thoroughly, with supportive government measures provided under the wage committee mechanism. #thailandexports

Chaichan Chareonsuk, chairman of the TNSC, said exports as of March 2024 are expected to rise 1%-2% this year, while the Israel-Hamas conflict should be monitored because it could escalate and expand to include other countries in the region. Continued …

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Fixing Thailand’s cannabis regulations

When cannabis was removed from the Narcotics Code in 2021, widespread, unregulated usage sparked a public outcry, calling for immediate governmental intervention to rectify the situation. #thailandmarijuana

Three years have passed, and cannabis remains in a regulatory vacuum. Two draft bills have been sent to parliament to address these concerns, but there remains no sign that parliament will approve either of them. Continued …

New health minister seeks cannabis views

Newly appointed Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin says he needs to listen to people’s opinions first before making a final decision on the future of cannabis.

Somsak said the final decision had not yet been made on whether to go ahead with plans to recriminalize cannabis under a new law, saying it was very important to get people’s opinions about whether it should be put back on the list of controlled narcotic drugs. Continued …

Krabi calls for more investment in water

Tourism operators in Krabi are requesting long-term water supply investment, as the southern province lacks sufficient reservoirs and efficient management to deal with a future that could feature longer droughts. #krabiwater

“The government pledged to make Thailand a tourism hub, and Krabi generates significant tourism revenue. The government should urgently fix water supply shortages in the province,” said Sasithorn Kittidhrakul, acting president of the Krabi Tourism Assn. Continued … 

Visa waiver extended for Indians, Taiwanese

The cabinet has approved a plan to extend visa exemptions for tourists from India and Taiwan for six more months, as the country seeks to boost the number of foreign arrivals to shore up the sluggish economy.

Tourists from India and Taiwan will be able to enter Thailand without a visa until Nov. 11 after an existing waiver ends on Friday, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin told reporters after a cabinet meeting on Tuesday. Travelers can stay for a maximum of 30 days at a time under the rules. Continued …

Travel growth expected in Asia-Pacific

Online travel agen Booking.com predicts the Asia-Pacific region to have the fastest growth in bookings globally, even as travel demand cools post-high season. The company’s managing director for Asia-Pacific, Laura Houldsworth, anticipates a more steady growth rate, rather than the rapid rise seen in recent years.

Asia-Pacific posted an annual growth rate of 15%-16% in bookings the previous year, largely fueled by the Chinese market. Despite a slower recovery pace, China drove the region’s growth more than any other nation, according to Booking.com. Continued …

Experiencing the ‘wellness’ culture of Koh Phangan Island

Koh Phangan Island is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist spots, the island is well known for scuba diving and snorkeling. Yet another boisterous night-long celebration, the full moon party, which is tied to the lunar calendar, draws revelers to its southeastern peninsula. The island offers a plethora of opportunities for wellness, meditation and yoga. #KohPhangan

Gary Marshall, CEO of Brand TD by Travel Daily Media, talks to Eddy Kukreja, producer, Stayfly Studio Co. Ltd,, about the wellness and well-being Industry on Koh Phangan Island. Continued …

Thailand’s rare ‘tiger cat’ caught on video

The Asiatic Golden Cat — nicknamed “fire tiger” — is a medium-sized cat. It’s 16 inches tall and weighs up to 33 pounds. Scientists have a lot to learn about this animal, which is supposedly nocturnal, though many of the rare glimpses of this species on trail cams are during daylight hours.

Recent footage of a fire tiger from a trail cam in Thailand has gained attention online. This video is of previous encounters filmed in Indonesia. Video …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

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