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Friday’s news-Nov 21

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Hua Hin water and electric cutoffs/137 restaurants earn Bib Gourmands/Michelin Guide revolutionizing Thai cuisine/Countries with the most Michelin-starred street food spots/Flood-weary south to see heavy rain/2 Miss Universe judges resign/Thailand’s long-lost goodwill elephants

  • ECONOMY: Anutin rules out VAT hike/Restaurants Slam Plan to Hike VAT
  • TOURISM: 97 Rescued off Trat ferry/Rudest Things You Can Do While Deplaning
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: 5 Reasons You shouldn’t visit Thailand
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: World nears climate tipping point/PTT ready to walk away from EV venture
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

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Hua Hin water and electric cutoffs Nov 26

Residents in parts of Hua Hin have been advised to expect disruption to electricity and tap water on Wednesday, Nov. 26, as works are carried out to upgrade high-voltage infrastructure near the Hua Hin municipality water reservoir.

The Provincial Electricity Authority said electricity will be shut off from 9 am to 4 pm to allow crews to demolish and install high-voltage poles and fit new equipment. The interruption to the power supply is expected to affect the operation of the municipal water system, resulting in low pressure or no running water in several areas. Continued …

Great flavors, modest prices: 137 restaurants earn the 2026 Bib Gourmand

As the countdown begins to the unveiling of the Michelin star recipients on Nov. 27, Michelin has released its list of Bib Gourmand restaurants for 2026, featuring 137 venues offering high-quality food at reasonable prices.

Among them are 13 first-time entrants to the MICHELIN Guide Thailand, spanning Bangkok and its vicinity (4), Ayutthaya (1), Chiang Mai (3), Nakhon Ratchasima (1), Udon Thani (1), Surat Thani (2) and Phang-nga (1). Continued …

How the Michelin Guide is revolutionizing Thai cuisine

The aroma of spices cooked in a wok and fresh herbs has long been synonymous with Thailand, a country whose street food culture is already legendary. But since the arrival of the Michelin Guide in 2017, Thai cuisine has undergone a discreet but profound transformation, transcending the sparkling facade of gastronomy.

In partnership with the Thai National Tourism Office (TAT), the guide was introduced not only to highlight the country’s best restaurants but also to officially establish Thailand as a world-class gastronomic destination. Continued …

The countries with the most Michelin-starred street food spots in the world

Gone are the days when street food was a hurried pit stop, the kind you visited without ever noting down the address. Across Asia, especially in Southeast Asia, family-run eateries that have stood firm for decades sit beside solo carts and newly sprouted stalls, all working toward the same thing: serving hyperlocal flavours shaped by regional produce, inherited recipes and the kind of quiet expertise you only get from repetition.

Number of Michelin-approved street food spots in Thailand: 33

Thailand’s street food landscape remains one of the most expressive in the world: fast-paced, flavor-packed and rooted in family traditions passed down like heirlooms. Bangkok holds the lion’s share of these stalls, but a generous scatter across Phuket, Chiang Mai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, and Chon Buri ensures that a Michelin-approved bite is not too far away. Continued …

Flood-weary south to see heavy rain through Sunday

Torrential rain has caused flooding in the southern provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Surat Thani and will continue in the south until Sunday, forecasters say.

In Nakhon Si Thammarat, all schools in Muang district were closed yesterday as floodwater was about one meter deep. Persistent rain over the past three days has also led to flooding in Phrommakhiri, Lan Saka, Sichon, Ron Phibun, Cha-uat, and Tha Sala districts. Continued …

2 Miss Universe judges resign amid scandal ahead of Bangkok final

Two judges resigned from the Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok, citing concerns over transparency just days before the winner was set to be crowned. Omar Harfouch, a Lebanese-French composer, shocked fans on Tuesday when he announced that he was stepping down from the judging panel of this year’s competition, accusing the organizers of running a “charade” lacking in transparency.

Harfouch’s most explosive claim was that a secret panel of judges had already determined which contestants would reach the final, without the official panel’s knowledge. Continued …

Meet Pratu Pha and Srinarong: Thailand’s long-lost goodwill elephants

The fate of two Thai elephants in Sri Lanka — Pratu Pha and Srinarong — has once again captured public attention. Decades after leaving their homeland as symbols of friendship, both remain in foreign temples under growing concerns over their welfare and declining health. Public campaigns and elephant-welfare groups in Thailand are now calling for the return of the remaining two goodwill elephants.

Elephants are deeply tied to Thai identity, and their long absence abroad has raised public concern. Thailand must now navigate delicate diplomacy to protect the animals’ welfare while preserving long-standing ties with Sri Lanka. Continued …

Anutin rules out VAT hike to 8.5%, insists rate will stay at 7% while economy recovers

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed concerns over a planned rise in value-added tax (VAT) to 8.5%, insisting that the current 7% rate will remain unchanged while the country is still recovering.

He explained that, under Thai law, VAT should be collected at 10%. The long-standing rate of 7%, he said, has been possible only because successive governments have issued exemptions in response to economic and social conditions. Continued …

Thai Restaurants Slam Treasury Plan to Hike VAT, Warning of Severe Inflationary Impact

The Thai restaurant industry has voiced alarm over the government’s proposal to raise the value-added tax (VAT), warning that the move will place an excessive burden on businesses and fuel widespread inflation, severely impacting the public’s cost of living.

The government intends to gradually increase the VAT from the current 7% to 8.5% by 2028, and finally to 10% by 2030, as part of a medium-term fiscal restructuring plan designed to reduce the budget deficit to below 3% of GDP by fiscal year 2029. Continued …

Tour Boat Damaged by Heavy Waves, 97 Rescued off Trat

A tourist passenger boat returning from Koh Kood was struck by powerful waves yesterday, causing a hull breach and gradual flooding before rescue teams brought all 97 people on board to safety.

The incident occurred near Koh Kradad, where strong winds and high waves created hazardous conditions for the vessel, identified as the Suea Dam Gold. Despite the severity of the damage, all 92 tourists and five crew members were evacuated without injury. Continued …

The Rudest Things You Can Do While Deplaning

Air travel does not typically bring out the best in people. The stress of tight connections, long lines, cramped cabins, and general transit fatigue can push even the calmest travelers to their limits.

But that doesn’t mean you have to add to the unpleasantness. Indeed, there are many things passengers do that make the flight experience worse for their fellow travelers ― from the airport to boarding and even deplaning. Continued …

5 Reasons You shouldn’t visit Thailand

Let’s be honest. Thailand has a reputation. Depending on who you ask, it’s the ultimate backpacker’s paradise, a culinary wonderland, or the land of golden temples and turquoise waters. year after year, Thailand ranks among the most-visited countries on Earth.

Bangkok is on the top spot as the world’s most-visited city. Expats flock here in droves, retiring to Hua Hin or setting up remote offices in Chiang Mai. But here’s the hard truth that If you brows travel forums or speak to disillusioned tourists who cut their trips short. Sometimes they say, “Thailand is not for everyone”. Continued … 

World nears climate tipping point

The consequences of climate tipping points are almost too big to imagine. The thought that, over the course of a few decades, the Amazon rainforest could become a savannah, or coral reefs could become extinct, seems like science fiction.

Given how many people have been lulled into a false sense of control over the environment, it is perhaps even harder to grasp that incremental changes in temperature and rainfall irreversibly reorganize planetary-scale systems. Continued …

PTT ready to walk away from EV venture

The Thai oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc is considering offloading its stake in an electric vehicle (EV) joint venture as it seeks to improve cash flow and brace for a sluggish Thai and global economy next year.

“We plan to sell shares and assets to earn an additional 100 billion baht from the fourth quarter of this year to the end of 2026,” Chief Executive Kongkrapan Intarajang said on Wednesday. Continued …

Trump floats death penalty for ‘seditious’ Democrats

US President Donald Trump yesterday evoked the death penalty for Democratic lawmakers who urged the military to refuse illegal orders, calling them traitors and accusing them of “seditious behavior.” Continued …

Trump’s new Ukrainian plan gives Russia what it wants

A US plan backed by President Donald Trump to end Russia’s war in Ukraine is “good” for both sides, the White House said Thursday, rejecting concerns that it echoes many of Moscow’s demands. Continued …

Hua Hin 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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Friday’s news-Aug 15

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Feedback/Thailand’s gorgeous new train/Hua Hin 2026 budget/Thai Currency Set to Soar/Border ‘is not ready to reopen’/Bt10 million to vote for casino bill/Bangkok’s street food vendor demise/ECONOMY: Bangkok remains the top choice for homebuyers/Phuket Battleground for Luxury Developers/Farmers fret at tariff deal/Automotive powerhouse Thailand tries to get moving/TOURISM: Thailand Losing Tourist Edge/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Sai Noi Beach/Isan: Thailand’s forgotten tourist destination/Slow down – and take the train/Guide to Thai squat toilets/CLIMATE THAILAND: Future of energy in Thailand/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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

Re: Bangkok-Malaysia train service

“It’s good news about the return of the Butterworth service. Further good news would be investment in rolling stock. With the huge outlay on the new track/Hua Hin station, it would’ve been good if some more money had gone into those ancient screeching trains (one is just going by now and the noise is deafening!), and carriages which have seen better days.” – AB

Editor: Patience. The Thai government has limited resources, with all areas of the country clamoring for investment of one kind or another. PKK is just one small piece of the overall equation, and, frankly, other areas could use the money more than this area. And new rolling stock has been purchased, just not for the southern route – yet. (Of course, as the article below illustrates, there always seems to be money for tourism needs.)

Inside The Blue Jasmine, Thailand’s gorgeous new train

Gone are the days of rattling along in a fan-cooled carriage with sagging curtains and a chatty uncle who won’t stop telling his life story until 3am. Thailand’s classic Bangkok–Chiang Mai sleeper train is getting some high-class competition in the form of a navy-gold beauty called The Blue Jasmine. It’s essentially a boutique hotel that just happens to roll through some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes.

Poised to make its inaugural nine-day journey from Nov.16-24, the locomotive trades cramped bunks, dim corridors, and platform snacks for private cabins, full dining cars, and lounges with wraparound windows. Continued …

Hua Hin 2026 budget seeks over 400 million baht, with water system focus

Hua Hin has requested more than 400 million baht in funding for the 2026 fiscal year, with a significant portion aimed at upgrading the city’s water supply infrastructure.

The municipality is seeking a general grant of 349,345,000 baht to fund public services in education, social affairs, and administration. In addition, it has applied for a specific grant of 56,612,500 baht for infrastructure works aimed at strengthening the local water supply system. Continued …

Thai Currency Set to Soar as Dollar Dips

Analysts predict that the Thai baht will soon test 32 against the US dollar, with even stronger gains due to a weakening greenback. The US Federal Reserve faces mounting pressure to cut interest rates in September, creating a favorable environment for the baht’s rise.

Following Thailand’s 25 basis points policy rate cut, the baht hovered between 32.24 and 32.26 to the dollar yesterday, after wrapping up at 32.31 on Wednesday. Continued ….

Border with Cambodia ‘is not ready to reopen’

Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang, commander of the Second Army Region, said his forces were not ready for a reopening of the border with Cambodia, joking that it may remain closed “until his retirement”.

He was mentioning this yesterday in the context of whether the government had signaled giving the green light to reopening border crossings. Continued …

People’s Party MPs claim they were offered Bt10 million to vote for casino bill

The revealing of a brazen Bt10-million bribe attempt targeting People’s Party MPs shocked parliament yesterday. Two Khon Kaen MPs revealed they were approached by a woman in June, allegedly offered money to back the now-withdrawn Entertainment Complex Bill and influence the 2026 budget.

Later, Pheu Thai MP and government Chief Whip Wisut Chainarun slammed the delay in reporting, urging police action and warning that such scandals erode public trust and damage democracy. Continued …

Bangkok’s street food vendor demise continues

The Lumpini Park Hawker Center will be ready to open early next year, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). The Department of Public Works kicked off construction of the site, which is located on Ratchadamri Road next to Lumpini Park, on June 27.

Once completed, street food vendors operating on pedestrian walkways around the area will be invited to move in to help improve the area’s orderliness and food safety standards. Continued …

Why Bangkok remains the top choice for homebuyers across Thailand

The recent earthquake has had a positive effect on the low-rise housing market, with increased interest in purchasing properties. Demand for townhouses in Bangkok grew by 4% in April compared to March, the month of the earthquake.

In contrast, demand for condominiums fell by 31%, as some consumers expressed concerns about the safety of high-rise buildings during earthquakes. Continued …

Phuket Becomes ‘Cash-Rich’ Battleground for Luxury Developers

Phuket’s property market is undergoing a significant transformation, evolving from a traditional tourist destination into a high-stakes arena for luxury real estate developers. This shift is being driven by a powerful surge in demand for second homes from international buyers, who are predominantly purchasing high-end pool villas with cash.

A recent report by Colliers Thailand reveals that total investment in Phuket’s real estate sector remains robust at 34.9 billion baht, reflecting strong confidence from both developers and buyers. Continued …

Farmers fret at tariff deal

Local farmers are gradually voicing their fears about the economy after learning that the Thai government may remove non-tariff barriers and reduce the tariff for imported goods from the United States.

The Thai negotiating team sent to Washington managed to get a tariff rate of 19% on Thai goods exported to the US, instead of the initial 36%. Let’s not forget that the Thai government in the past promised not to sacrifice the local farm sector. Continued …

Caught between two giants, automotive powerhouse Thailand tries to get moving again

On a taxi ride from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center, signs of shifts in the country’s auto industry are hard to miss. The airport taxi is likely to be a battery electric vehicle (BEV) or a hybrid (HEV), and multiple giant billboards flanking the motorway advertise an array of such options from China.

Thailand has long been a regional powerhouse for automaking, driven by its deep connections to legacy Japanese brands like Toyota, Nissan, and Honda, all of which have operated manufacturing and export bases in the kingdom for decades. But the industry, dominated by these carmakers that manufacture more internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that run on fuel than hybrids in Thailand, is being reshaped. Continued …

Thailand Losing Tourist Edge to Vietnam and South Korea

Thailand’s once-thriving tourism industry is experiencing a significant slowdown due to intense competition from Vietnam and South Korea. Industry executives have flagged ineffective domestic subsidy schemes and unfavorable safety perceptions as additional hurdles to growth.

Vietnam and South Korea are gaining attention by expanding their visa-free entry schemes, specifically targeting markets such as Belgium, the Netherlands, and China for Golden Week holidays. While Thailand’s visa-free policy covers 93 countries, industry insiders stress that safety concerns and a lack of promotional initiatives hinder its effectiveness. Continued …

Sai Noi Beach: A scenic cove near Hua Hin gaining popularity

When most people think of Hua Hin’s coastline, they picture its long stretch of sandy beach extending for over 10 kilometres, lined with hotels and restaurants. But just south of Khao Tao Temple lies a smaller, more secluded cove that offers a different experience – Sai Noi Beach.

Once regarded as a “hidden gem”, Sai Noi is no longer a secret. While it can still be quiet during weekdays and in the low season, weekends now see more visitors making the trip to enjoy what is often described as the most picturesque beach in the area. Sai Noi Beach is also a nice spot to watch the sunrise in Hua Hin. Continued …

Isan: Thailand’s forgotten tourist destination

Isan is Thailand’s largest region, consisting of 20 provinces. Despite having 30% of Thailand’s population, this region receives less than 3% of Thailand’s tourist dollars.

It is a multicultural region where Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand meet, and has a rich history and great food. In particular, it is home to Thailand’s second-largest ethnic group, the Thai Lao.

Northern Isan

The great Mekong Valley, the national parks of Loei, Ban Chiang, Nong Khai, Wat Phra That Phanom.

Central Isan

Also known as the Chi River Basin, the highway from Bangkok ends here in Khon Kaen.

Southern Isan

Centered around bustling Nakhon Ratchasima, the Mun River Basin is home to Khao Yai National Park and the beautiful Khmer architecture of Phanom Rung and Phimai.

Slow down – and take the train in Thailand

In an instant gratification and rapid transit age, slowing down remains a profound, almost forgotten joy. Nowhere is this more apparent than on the railways of Thailand, where the rhythmic clatter of wheels on steel tracks becomes the soundtrack to an unfolding tapestry of emerald rice paddies, ancient temples, bustling markets, and the everyday lives of a vibrant nation.

Traveling by train in Thailand isn’t merely about getting from A to B; it’s an immersive, sensory experience, a rolling panorama that awakens the soul and offers a glimpse into the country’s authentic spirit. Continued …

Your essential guide to Thai squat toilets

Visiting Thai public restrooms in destinations like temples or gas stations can sometimes surprise travelers with an unexpected encounter with the traditional squat toilet. This toilet type, despite being challenging for those unaccustomed to squatting, remains the preferred choice for many Thai people.

Squatting has long been the natural position for defecation throughout human history. In ancient times, this was done outdoors in forests and gardens, with only the aristocracy having the luxury of relieving themselves indoors. Continued …

Small Modular Nuclear Reactors: The Future of energy in Thailand

Amid the global push for clean energy, small modular reactors (SMR) are emerging as a promising solution for Thailand. The latest development plan by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) includes an SMR construction project with a total capacity of 600 MW, set to be part of the PDP2024 plan.

The project aims to begin construction in 2032, with full commercial operation expected by 2035, and a lifespan of 60 years. The plan divides the production capacity into two main areas: 300 MW in the ortheast and 300 MW in the south, spreading the energy sources and enhancing electricity security in the region. Continued …

  • Russian Fugitive Arrested in Phuket for Illegal Firearms – Continued …
  • British Rider Wheelies into Woman, Prompting Vigilante Attack – Continued …
  • Chinese Woman Arrested at Airport Over Loan Fraud Case – Continued …
    • Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

      The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

      Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

      For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

      Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

      Bus Tickets 

      Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

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

      (We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

      Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

      Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

      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
baht, bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s news-May 22

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Hua Hin water supply disruption/Two local food festivals/Holiday In Vana Nava earns award/Devasom Hua Hin wins award/Liverpool fans to hold parade/Broken heart syndrome/Monsoon strengthens/Medical Certificates for Cannabis/Cabbies Call for Grab Service Ban/Expats defend Pattaya/Pattaya Police Clamp Down on Prostitution/Pattaya’s diners crisis/Earthquake spurs relocation queries/Iguanas caught in Lop Buri/ECONOMY: Investigation Into Foreign-Dominated Businesses/Without tourism, economy in recession/Baht defies fragile Thai economy/Residential developers suffer/Companies set for earnings plunge/China, ASEAN free trade deal/Data centers in provinces proposed/TOURISM: Chinese Arrivals to Drop/Thailand’s Pride Month celebrations/Bus Driver Steals $8,600 from Tourist/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok Top Hotspot for Tourist Scams/CLIMATE THAILAND: Growth in recycling businesses/Unsafe heavy-metal levels/Earth’s ‘catastrophic’ ice melt problem/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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

Major Hua Hin water supply disruption next Tuesday, May 27

Residents in several areas of Hua Hin are set to experience a temporary water outage on Tuesday, May 27, as the city’s Waterworks Division carries out emergency repairs on a damaged raw water pipeline.

The division will repair a leaking 1,000 mm (40″) HPDE raw water transmission pipeline near the security checkpoint opposite the entrance to the Pranburi Irrigation and Maintenance Project Office. The repair is scheduled from 8 am to 8 pm. Continued …

Two local food festivals scheduled end of May

Two beachside festivals featuring local cuisine and live entertainment are set to take place near Hua Hin from May 30 to June 1. In Pranburi, the Taste on the Rock festival will be held at Khao Kalok Beach over three days. The event will feature more than 80 food stalls serving fresh seafood, GI-certified products, and signature dishes from across the province.

Meanwhile, in neighboring Sam Roi Yot district, the Sam Roi Yot Seafood Festival will take place along Sam Roi Yot Beach from 5pm to 10pm each day. The event will host over 100 food stalls offering a variety of local cuisine and seafood. Continued …

Holiday Inn Vana Nava earns TripAdvisor award

Holiday Inn Vana Nava Hua Hin has been awarded the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2025, placing the resort among the top 10% of hotels worldwide based on consistently excellent reviews from global travelers.

Holiday Inn Vana Nava Hua Hin combines contemporary comfort with resort-style leisure, offering direct access to the Vana Nava Water Jungle, views from the Vana Nava Sky rooftop bar and restaurant, and a wide range of amenities including the Kids’ Club, Tea Tree Spa. Continued …

Devasom Hua Hin wins TripAdvisor award

Devasom Resorts’ properties in Thailand were hailed among the honorees at this year’s Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best. Devasom Khao Lak came away with the win in the Best Luxury Resort category, while Devasom Hua Hin won in the Best Boutique Resort category for Thailand.

This recognition places both resorts among the top one percent of hospitality experiences worldwide based on traveler reviews. Continued …

Hua Hin Liverpool football fans to hold parade May 26

Liverpool F.C. fans in Hua Hin are set to celebrate the club’s Premier League 2024/25 title win with a special event and parade scheduled for Monday, May 26.

The celebration, titled Red Day of Hua Hin, will take place under the theme The Kop – You’ll Never Walk Alone, and will feature a parade through parts of the city, followed by an evening of fan activities in front of Market Village. Continued …

Broken heart syndrome — Men face twice the risk of death compared to women

“Broken heart” is not just a metaphor — it is a real medical condition that can be life-threatening. Research shows that men are twice as likely to die from it compared to women.

Broken heart syndrome, medically known as Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy, is triggered by severe emotional or physical stress causing part of the heart to contract abnormally, as if suddenly squeezed tightly. Continued …

Heavy rain and flash flood warning as monsoon strengthens

The Thai Meteorological Department issued a weather alert today as the southwest monsoon continues to prevail over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, bringing widespread thundershowers and isolated heavy rain to parts of the east, the south (west coast), and the Bangkok metropolitan area.

South (east coast): Scattered thundershowers mostly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat; minimum 24-26°C, maximum 32-35°C; waves below a meter high and above 2 meters high in thundershowers. Continued …

Thailand to Require Medical Certificates for Cannabis

Thailand’s Public Health Minister has announced a major regulation change requiring cannabis users to present medical certificates, aiming to curb recreational use. Minister Somsak Thepsutin revealed plans for the new rules, hoping to establish order after cannabis was decriminalized nearly three years ago.

Minister Somsak’s proposition marks a shift toward stricter cannabis control, emphasizing verified medical use prescribed by licensed professionals. Continued …

Bangkok Cabbies Call for Grab Service Ban at Suvarnabhumi Airport

Taxi drivers in Bangkok have issued a stark warning to the government: shut down the Grab ride-hailing service at Suvarnabhumi Airport or face blockades at entry and exit points. Around 50 taxi drivers, led by Thai Public Taxi Association’s head, staged a protest outside parliament on Tuesday, demanding the closure of Grab’s service lounge at the airport by yesterday.

The tension has arisen from the government’s recent allowance for Grab drivers to establish pick-up and drop-off spots at Suvarnabhumi, which has sparked outrage among traditional taxi drivers who feel they are being sidelined. Continued …

Expats defend Pattaya’s peaceful side amid rising criticism of noise and crowds

Despite its reputation as a bustling beach city, many long-term foreign residents are speaking up to defend Pattaya as a relatively peaceful place to live — especially when compared to other parts of Thailand. While complaints about noise, traffic, and over-tourism often make headlines, expats say that the reality on the ground tells a different story, particularly for those who know where to stay.

Some also noted that the problems associated with tourism aren’t unique to Pattaya. “Hua Hin is getting just as bad,” said another expat, pointing to increasing crowds and noise in what was once considered a quiet alternative. Continued …

Pattaya Police Clamp Down on Prostitution

Pattaya Police orchestrated a massive raid yesterday to combat prostitution along Pattaya’s famed beachfront. The operation saw over 50 officers from key departments, including the Tourist and Immigration Police, sweeping the area in a bid to curb the illegal activities that have marred the city’s image.

The joint effort resulted in the arrest of more than 50 individuals involved in prostitution activities. This crackdown comes as a response to increasing reports of solicitation by female and transgender prostitutes, especially under the cover of dark, along the beach walkways. Continued …

Pattaya’s diners crisis boils over as costs soar

Pattaya’s vibrant dining scene, once a culinary magnet for locals and tourists alike, is now being battered by a wave of soaring costs, and some restaurant owners say 2025 is shaping up to be even worse than the Covid-19 era.

A toxic mix of rising gas prices, skyrocketing raw ingredient costs, labor shortages, and sluggish consumer spending is turning up the heat on the industry. Restaurateurs are calling it a “hamburger crisis” — and the kitchen is on fire. Continued … 

Earthquake spurs Bangkok office relocation queries

Bangkok’s office market in the first quarter of 2025 continued to face mounting pressure from new supply, resulting in higher vacancy rates and intensifying competition among landlords, according to property consultancy CBRE Thailand.

The earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, which was felt across Bangkok, added a new dimension to office decision-making, prompting companies to re-evaluate their priorities and requirements in the wake of heightened safety concerns. Continued … 

94 free-roaming iguanas caught in Lop Buri

Wildlife officials captured 94 free-roaming iguanas last week following a drive to control their population on Khao Phraya Doen Dong Mountain in Phatthana Nikhom district, after villagers reported damage to crops.

Villagers had complained about the arboreal lizards harming their crops since late 2023, Autthapol Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said yesterday. Continued …

Mass Investigation Launched Into Suspected Foreign-Dominated Businesses

The Thai government has launched an extensive probe into over 46,000 foreign-controlled firms. Led by Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan, authorities are cracking down on what they term “nominee-owned companies” and dodgy imports, aiming to shield local industries and promote fair play.

Thailand’s Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang highlighted that these long-standing issues lingered due to outdated legal frameworks. The investigation reveals an alarming trend where foreign entities are allegedly bypassing the Foreign Business Act by using Thai nominees. Many such firms, especially in the lucrative sectors of tourism, e-commerce, and real estate, are accused of trafficking in products below standard. Continued …

Without tourism, Thai economy already in recession, say experts

Thailand’s economy, excluding the tourism sector, is already in a state of recession, according to an analysis released on Tuesday alongside the National Economic and Social Development Council’s (NESDC) first-quarter report and outlook for 2025.

The country’s GDP grew 3.1% in Q1 2025, down slightly from 3.3% in Q4 2024. While this still reflects positive growth, it marks the slowest expansion rate in ASEAN. The NESDC has revised its 2025 GDP forecast down to between 1.3% and 2.3% (median 1.8%) due to weakening global trade, rising household debt, and ongoing economic uncertainties, including U.S. tariff policies and volatile agricultural prices. Continued …

Strong baht defies fragile Thai economy, raising fears of further strain on exporters

The Thai baht has strengthened sharply this week, recently reaching 32.70 baht per U.S. dollar, continuing its appreciation trend since the beginning of the month amid global financial market volatility and rising global gold prices.

This sudden strengthening has raised concerns for Thailand’s fragile economy, as it does not reflect robust domestic recovery. Instead, analysts warn that the appreciating baht may further pressure the economy, particularly the export sector, which remains a key growth driver. Continued …

Residential developers suffer in Q1 amid stagnant economy

Nearly all Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET)-listed residential developers with quarterly revenue of at least 2.5 billion baht reported year-on-year declines in both revenue and net profit in the first quarter, mainly due to the economic slowdown and higher mortgage loan rejection rates.

Even though some developers have additional revenue streams, particularly from the hotel business that has benefited from a stronger tourism sector compared to the residential market, they were still unable to prevent a decline in consolidated revenue. Continued …

Listed Thai companies set for earnings plunge in 1st half

Analysts expect listed companies’ earnings to drop 6% year-on-year in the first half of 2025 amid global trade tensions and tourism weakness, with serious headwinds expected this quarter and next.

The U.S. tariff spikes have begun to erode corporate profitability, with many firms now grappling with higher operating costs tied to these new tax measures. Compounding the issue is a slowdown in tourism, traditionally a major economic driver, which is in its low season, placing additional pressure on earnings. Continued …

China, ASEAN complete negotiations on upgraded free trade deal

China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have completed negotiations to further refine their free trade area to include the digital and green economy and other new industries, China’s commerce ministry said yesterday.

ASEAN, made up of 10 Southeast Asian countries, is China’s largest trading partner, with the value of total trade reaching US$234 billion in the first quarter of 2025, according to Chinese customs data. Continued …

Data centers in provinces proposed

Expanding data centers beyond Bangkok, enhancing mobile broadband performance, and strengthening network connectivity through internet exchange points are crucial for improving Thailand’s internet resilience and establishing it as a regional data center hub.

According to the Internet Society’s Pulse platform, a source for third-party internet measurement data, Thailand has recorded no internet shutdowns over the past 12 months. The estimated GDP loss of a single day’s shutdown is projected at US$21 million. Continued …

Chinese Arrivals to Thailand Projected to Drop Nearly 30% in 2025

The Bank of Thailand has reduced its forecast for Chinese tourists in 2025, expecting nearly a 30% drop. This decrease slashes Chinese visitor numbers from 7 million to only 5 million, as explained by Pranee Sutthasri, senior director of the macroeconomic department. Consequently, the central bank has adjusted its overall foreign arrivals estimate from 39.5 million to 37.5 million for the year.

Chinese tourist arrivals in 2024 fell to 6.7 million, a significant decline from the pre-pandemic peak of 11 million in 2019. The bank cites concerns over the potential impact of U.S. tariff policies, which weigh heavily on the tourism forecast. Continued …

Thailand’s Pride Month celebrations set to boost economy and tourism

Rainbow tourism is expected to boost Thailand’s economic growth in the second quarter of this year, particularly during Pride Month in June.

The Rainbow economy is experiencing rapid and powerful expansion, especially in the tourism, entertainment and lifestyle sectors. This growth is largely driven by the LGBTQIAN+ community, which numbers between 400 and 800 million people worldwide, accounting for 5%–10% of the global population. Continued …

Thai Bus Driver Steals $8,600 from Romanian Tourist’s ATM Card

A Romanian tourist’s lost credit card led to unauthorized withdrawals totaling 280,000 baht ($8,600) while she was traveling from Koh Phangan in Surat Thani province to Phuket, authorities reported.

According to police, the Romanian national filed a complaint at Saku Police Station in Phuket seeking assistance. Phuket police then coordinated with Mueang Surat Thani Police Station and immigration authorities to investigate the case. Continued …

Beware of Tourist Scams: Bangkok Named Top Hotspot for Fraud

If you’re planning a holiday in Thailand, be vigilant with your spending. Bangkok has been identified as one of the world’s leading hotspots for tourist scams, with a significant portion of fraud cases tied to questionable taxi and car rental dealings.

This revelation comes from a recent report by the Mastercard Economics Institute, highlighted by CNBC, which outlines a concerning rise in travel-related scams globally. Continued …

Thailand’s waste surge spurs growth in recycling businesses

An increase in waste volume driven by rising consumer demand presents a significant opportunity for waste-management and recycling businesses to advance Thailand’s green economy.

Thailand recorded its highest waste volume at 26.95 million tons in 2023, a year that marked the economic revival following the Covid-19 pandemic. Of particular concern is that only 21% of hazardous waste — such as electronic waste, light bulbs, and batteries — is disposed of correctly. Continued …

Unsafe heavy-metal levels in 3 northernmost rivers

Unsafe heavy-metal levels have been detected in the Kok, Mekong and Sai rivers in the northernmost provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. The pollution is believed to have come from outside Thailand.

Enironmental officias checked the quality of the water in the three rivers on May 1 and 2. They found unsafe levels of heavy metals, especially arsenic and lead, at many locations in both northern provinces. Continued …

Earth’s ‘catastrophic’ ice melt problem is worse than previously thought, study says

Huge expanses of ice are melting alarmingly fast, raising new concerns about “catastrophic consequences for humanity,” a study published May 20 says.

The study focuses on two masses of ice currently sitting on land: The Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets. As temperatures rise, that ice is melting, flowing into the ocean and making sea levels rise. Continued …

Indian suspects flee after compatriot’s body found on Koh Samet

Two Indian men suspected of murdering a compatriot and dumping his body in the sea off Koh Samet in Rayong province last week have fled Thailand, police said yesterday.

The victim, identified only as Khammam, a 49-year-old programmer, was found wedged between rocks at Ao Som on May 16. His head was wrapped in a black plastic bag, sealed with a luggage strap. According to forensic investigators, he had been dead for two to three days. Continued …

  • Phuket Immigration Cracks Down on Visa Overstays, Arrests Four Foreign Nationals – Continued …
  • Two Chinese Fugitives Arrested at Bangkok Airport Over Money Laundering – Continued …
  • Foreigners caught selling street food in Khao San area – Continued …
  • Foreign tourist flees angry mob after violating Krabi national park rules – Continued …

    New Schedule: Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

    The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

    (We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

    For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

    Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

    Bus Tickets 

    New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

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

    (We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

    Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

    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
baht, bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand beaches, thailand festivals, thailand islands, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Jan 22

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PKK officials make drought plan/British Chamber hosts Networking Night/Expat Tax Changes Explained/Toxic air crisis/Work from home nationwide/PM2.5 impacted 1 million/China outdoes Thailand in PM2.5/Baht projected to strengthen/Cambodian police free kidnapped US man/Foreigners bahaving badly/ECONOMY: 50-Day Deadline for Entertainment Complex/Entertainment complexes law lacks clarity/GDP gain of greater than 3%/Experts advise Thailand to be ready/Pressure on $35B Thai Export Surplus/Thailand to avoid US tariff hit/US out of global corporate tax deal/Industrial estate developers to thrive/Border trade to surpass one trillion baht/Latest e-commerce trends/TOURISM: Focusing on Emerging Markets/Chinese tourism faces sharp decline/Ministry prepares for tourist surge/To push airfare price controls/Thailand tops among ASEAN travelers/Philippines, Thailand Tourism Pact/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: 5 incredible routes to explore/Rain trees of Mae Ngat Somboon Chon Dam/CLIMATE THAILAND: Report links climate change to rising food prices/Eco-friendly farming/Cabinet approves carbon tax/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

PKK rainfall down 10%, officials make drought plan

Continued …

 

British Chamber hosts Networking Night in Hua Hin Feb 21

The BCCT Connecting Western Seaboard (Hua Hin) event, organized by the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) in cooperation with AMCHAM, Beluthai, DanCham, GTCC, NTCC, Swecham, British Club, Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin, will be held Friday, Feb. 21, from 6 pm to 9 pm at Pineapple Valley Golf Club Hua Hin.

Admission is Bt1,100 net for members and non-members and includes a buffet and free-flow soft drinks, beer, and wine. Continued …

Thailand Tax Changes Explained: Insights Direct from the Revenue Department

Discover the critical tax changes affecting expats in Thailand in this exclusive interview with a senior officer and a former officer from Thailand’s Revenue Department. They provide clear and concise answers to help clarify the tax obligations of expats.

Carl Turner and Expat Tax Thailand partner Dr. Sarawoot interview senior Revenue Department official Khun Pattharaphon Penjham and former official Khun Thanadet Boonsantia to discuss expat tax obligations in Thailand. Video …

Toxic air crisis: Dust levels ‘red’ in most of Thailand

Ultrafine dust levels were in the red (hazardous-to-health) in 46 out of the 76 provinces and in greater Bangkok this morning, with only 10 provinces reporting moderate to good air quality.

The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTFA) reported at 8am that particulate matter 2.5 micrometrs and less in diameter (PM2.5) was at red levels in 46 provinces and at orange (starting to affect health) levels in 21 provinces. Most were in the central plain, the northeast and the east. Continued …

Toxic air: Thailand considers work from home nationwide

The Ministry of Public Health is set to recommend a nationwide work from home directive next week after PM2.5 ultrafine dust pollution surpassed safe thresholds in nearly every province yesterday, with greater Bangkok experiencing the highest levels.

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin announced that a meeting would be held today to formulate strategies to address the escalating pollution crisis. Among the proposed measures is a nationwide work-from-home policy, which will be presented during the upcoming Cabinet meeting. Continued …

PM2.5 impacted 1 million Thais, cost Bt3 billion last year: Health Ministry

Over 1 million people have been treated for health conditions linked to PM2.5 air pollution in the past fiscal year (October 2023-December 2024), costing the country around 3 billion baht in healthcare expenses, the Public Health Ministry reported on Monday.

A total of 1,048,015 people sought treatment for six PM2.5-related conditions over the 12 months, ranked as follows: Dermatitis (442,073 patients), conjunctivitis (357,104), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (226,423), asthma (18,336), acute coronary syndrome (4,051), and diseases from direct contact with air pollution (28). Continued …

How China outdoes Thailand in PM2.5 dust war

Sonthi Kotchawat, an environmental and health expert with the Thai Environmental Scholars Assn., posted online: “China declares victory in the PM2.5 dust war with the ‘Blue Skies by 2025’ policy. How did they do it? Meanwhile, Thailand remains at the same point.

“China began its national action plan to tackle air pollution, especially PM2.5 dust, in 2013.” (Editor: It should be noted that Beijing still ranks among the worst air polluted cities in the world.) Continued …

Baht projected to strengthen

The baht is likely to strengthen further after it appreciated beyond 34 to the dollar yesterday, as Donald Trump’s inauguration speech disappointed investors, prompting heavy selling of the dollar for profit-taking, says Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).

The Thai currency traded at a two-week high of 33.97 to the dollar in early Asian morning trade uesterday, compared with Monday’s close at 34.30, after Trump refrained from imposing tariffs on his first day in office. Continued …

Cambodian police free US man who was kidnapped in Thailand, smuggled across border

Cambodian authorities successfully rescued a man who was kidnapped in Thailand, drugged, and transported to Cambodia, where he was held captive. At the same time, his captors attempted to extort a ransom from his family.

According to the National Police, the victim, identified as Yu Emil, is an American citizen of Taiwanese descent. The rescue operation was conducted on Jan. 15, a day after the victim’s family reported the incident through the Ministry of Interior. Continued …

  • Delivery Rider Killed in Road Rage Incident Involving Indian Driver – Continued …
  • Police Subdue Russian Woman with Rubber Bullets at Phuket Festival – Continued …
  • French Man Arrested in Bangkok for Sharing Explicit Content of Thai Women – Continued …

Thailand’s 50-Day Deadline to Assess Entertainment Complex Proposal

Thailand’s Council of State has been tasked with a 50-day deadline to evaluate the proposed Entertainment Complex Act. This follows the Cabinet’s endorsement of the draft legislation on Jan. 13, setting a potential legislative pathway for casinos to exist within larger entertainment venues.

This legislative proposal, pending since the Cabinet’s nod of approval, is a significant step toward reshaping Thailand’s entertainment landscape. The move envisions turning parts of the country into “man-made destinations” that could accommodate a range of entertainment options, possibly revitalizing local tourism and injecting economic vitality. Continued …

Thailand’s entertainment complexes law said to lack clarity

The Council of State’s six points of concern over the government’s draft law on entertainment complexes may leave certain parties confused, especially those supporting the initiative and wondering about the council’s intentions.

At the heart of the matter is the unclear distinction between a tourist-focused entertainment complex and a broader man-made attraction. This lack of clarity raises fundamental questions: Does an entertainment complex require additional components, such as casinos, to achieve its goals, or should it prioritize scale and structure? Continued …

Ministry eyes GDP gain of greater than 3%

The Finance Ministry expects Thai GDP to grow by more than 3% this year, supported by robust expansion in the first quarter.

According to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, the first quarter this year should record growth exceeding the first quarter last year as a result of government policies. If the economy performs well in the first quarter, full-year growth should exceed 3%, he said. Continued …

Experts advise Thailand to be ready for economic shifts due to Trump

As U.S. President Donald Trump returns to the White House, several experts are calling on Thailand to implement both short- and long-term strategies to deal with the transition.

At the “Geopolitics 2025-Trump 2.0: The Global Shake Up” forum hosted by Krungthep Turakij yesterday, former foreign minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said Thailand needs to monitor Trump’s policies closely and see if they become a reality. Continued …

Trump’s Trade Policies Put Pressure on $35B Thai Export Surplus

Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has launched intensive monitoring of U.S. trade policy changes amid concerns over potential tariff measures, since Donald Trump has started his administration, that could affect its $54.95 billion export market, officials announced yesterday.

Trump pledged in his inaugural address on Monday that tariffs would be coming and said foreign countries would be paying the trade penalties, even though those taxes are currently paid by domestic importers and often passed along to consumers. Trump later said tariffs would “make us rich as hell.”. Continued …

Thailand predicted to avoid US tariff hit

Citi Thailand expects U.S. tariff hikes to have a limited impact on exports, as Thailand is not the main target of American taxation policies. Thailand may be indirectly affected by U.S. tariffs under the Donald Trump administration, said Nalin Chutchotitham, an economist at Citibank Thailand.

“The U.S. tariff policy is unlikely to significantly impact Thailand’s exports, as the country is not a strategic target for U.S. tariff increases,” she said. “However, potential U.S. tariff increases on China warrant monitoring.” Continued …

Trump effectively pulls US out of global corporate tax deal

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday declared that a global corporate minimum tax deal “has no force or effect” in the U.S,, effectively pulling America out of the landmark 2021 arrangement negotiated by the Biden administration with nearly 140 countries.

Trump, in a presidential memorandum issued hours after taking office, also ordered the U.S. Treasury to prepare options for “protective measures” against countries that have – or are likely to – put in place tax rules that disproportionately affect American companies. Continued …

Industrial estate developers set to thrive

Rental rates for factory and warehouse space are expected to continue rising, but will remain below pre-pandemic levels, unlike industrial land sales, which have recorded strong demand, primarily from Chinese investors who prefer buying over renting.

Sayarm Tongkrabin, head of industrial estate developer ESR Thailand, said while the overall industrial property market was robust last year, sales of industrial land sales represented the most active segment. Continued …

Border trade expected to surpass one trillion baht

Border trade sentiment is positive, with anticipated border export value surpassing 1 trillion baht, up 6.9% year-on-year, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the UTCC, presented the results of the initial Foreign Border Trade Sentiment Index, conducted this month with 327 respondents, including 65.7% from provincial chambers of commerce and 34.3% from trade associations. Continued …

Priceza highlights latest e-commerce trends

The e-commerce sector this year is expected to experience fiercer competition, the rise of affiliate commerce and faster delivery service, according to Priceza’s five e-commerce trends for 2025.

The retail sector should continue to grow this year thanks to government stimulus packages, Chayanit Somsuk, analyst at the Economic Intelligence Center of Siam Commercial Bank, told the “Priceza Thailand E-Commerce Trends 2025” forum yesterday. Continued …

Tourism Authority of Thailand Aims for Bt3 Trillion by Focusing on Emerging Markets

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set a target of generating 3 trillion baht in tourism revenue this year. This objective comes as TAT diversifies its focus toward emerging markets like Southeast Asia, India, and Russia, with the aim of reducing dependency on the traditionally strong but unpredictable Chinese market.

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool detailed this strategy, forecasting 2 trillion baht from an anticipated 39-40 million foreign arrivals, alongside 1 trillion baht from 200-220 million domestic trips. She highlighted the need to buffer against risks from China’s fluctuating market conditions amid reports of human trafficking that sullies Thailand’s image as a transit hub. Continued …

Chinese tourism to Thailand faces sharp decline amid safety concerns

Thailand’s tourism sector has suffered a significant setback as thousands of Chinese tourists cancel their travel plans amid growing safety concerns. The cancellations, affecting both chartered flights and hotel bookings, come in the wake of recent incidents involving Chinese nationals in the region.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool reports that around 10,000 Chinese tourists have canceled their visits, primarily affecting chartered flights from second-tier Chinese cities. The situation has been exacerbated by negative social-media coverage in China, particularly regarding cases of human trafficking and fraudulent activities. Continued …

Transport Ministry prepares for tourist surge during festivals

The Transport Ministry has announced readiness to handle an influx of tourists during upcoming festivals, drawing on lessons learned from the recent New Year period. Key measures include increasing flight frequencies and aircraft sizes to address concerns about high ticket prices.

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has been instructed to monitor airfares during peak travel periods and work with airlines to increase seat availability. Continued …

CAAT to push airfare price controls before Songkran

The Transport Ministry has ordered the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to address the issue of expensive airfares during long weekends and holiday periods to prepare for the Songkran festival in April.

Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said yesterday he also instructed the CAAT to develop long-term price control measures to maintain airfares at a suitable ceiling, while prioritizing benefits for passengers. Continued …

Grab survey names Thailand tops as ASEAN travelers’ number one destination

Grab, a leading super app in Southeast Asia, has unveiled the Travel Insights Report 2024, based on a survey conducted among its users across six countries, shedding light on evolving travel behaviors.

The findings reveal that 81% of respondents plan to travel internationally, with over half favo ring nearby destinations within Southeast Asia. Thailand continues to stand out as the most popular destination in the region. The report also highlights key habits of digital-savvy travelers, who increasingly prioritize technology and sustainability in their journeys. Continued …

Philippines and Thailand Forge Tourism Pact Amid Casino Buzz

The Philippines and Thailand have signed a five-year agreement to enhance their travel and hospitality sectors. The accord, formalized on Sunday, comes amidst buzz surrounding Thailand’s potential move to legalize casinos, which could revolutionize its tourism appeal. Currently, the Philippines holds a leading position in the regional casino market, allowing both locals and foreigners unrestricted access to gaming.

This partnership is viewed as a chance to exchange expertise, capitalizing on Thailand’s strengths in cultural and medical tourism, while offering insights into the Philippines’ thriving hospitality industry. Continued …

Thailand itineraries: 5 incredible routes to explore the country

With buzzing cities, 156 national parks, epic islands, and long, beach-fringed coastlines, Thailand offers everything you need for an incredible experience. It’s also a legendary street food destination, with mind-blowing — and often inexpensive — food options waiting around every corner. Work off your meals with trekking, kayaking, white-water rafting and hiking, or just flop on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Whatever you choose to do, Thailand will deliver. That’s why we’ve compiled five itineraries that take you to different parts of the country, including the lush north, Phuket and the islands, the mighty Mekong and more (including Hua Hin). Continued …

The rain trees of Mae Ngat Somboon Chon Dam

Stunning century-old red rain trees that emerge majestically from the waters of Mae Ngat Somboon Chon Dam are the must-see attraction for visitors to Chiang Mai’s Phrao district at this time of year.

This rare phenomenon occurs only when the dam’s water level reaches its peak, submerging the trunks and mirroring their vast canopies as they stretch skywards. But tourists only have a short winter window before water levels fall and this natural wonder vanishes. Continued …

Report links climate change to rising food prices in Southeast Asia

The ASEAN Food and Beverage Alliance (AFBA) recently met with Thailand’s Office of Agricultural Economics (OAE) to discuss findings and recommendations from AFBA’s report, “Climate Change and Food Prices in Southeast Asia”.

The report, published in collaboration with Oxford Economics, examined the impact of climate change on food prices and production costs in five Southeast Asian countries: Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Philippines. Continued …

Eco-friendly farming aims to heal forests

Over the past few years, the majority of forest land in Nan province has been turned into single-crop plantations to support the livelihoods of more than 150,000 local households whose farming activities involve burning and deforesting.

Nan residents face haze pollution caused by the seasonal burning activities on these farms every year. The deforestation of the province’s mountainous landscape also increases flood risk, leading to a huge economic loss. Continued …

Thai cabinet approves carbon tax

The cabinet yesterday agreed to levy a carbon tax of 200 baht per ton of carbon emissions as part of the country’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, said Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul. The tax, however, will be included in the existing oil tax and will not affect the retail price of oil and oil products, Paopoom said.

The measure is a change in the internal structure of the excise tax that calculates the carbon price embedded in the oil tax, he said. 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
bangkok, climate change, hua hin, immigration, phuket, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Dec 10

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Survey of Hua Hin retired expats/Hua Hin water disruption/Hua Hin International School teacher shares his thoughts/Coup prevention bill/More expected rain misery in south/Train services back to normal/5 Workers Found Dead/Thai Singer Died from Infections/Another foreigner falls to his death/ECONOMY: Five issues for government/Thailand Requires Strategic Reforms/Concerns over wage hike/Committee to discuss wage hike/Auto sales rut to drag on/Thailand trails Asia in rice yield/TOURISM: Electric vehicles banned/Suvarnabhumi Airport Prepares/Thailand MICE/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Be careful in traffic/Top 5 restaurants in Cherng Talay/CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar Power Lights Up Southeast Asia/Efforts to tackle plastic waste/Bt32 billion in power projects/Bangkok’s latest green lung/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

Survey of Hua Hin retired expats being held

Continued …

To take the survey …

Hua Hin water supply to be sufficient during repair work

Water supply disruptions expected to start tomorrow through Dec. 18. Continued …

Hua Hin International School teacher shares his thoughts on education

Sixty-five years ago, in a University of Cambridge lecture called “Two Cultures”, the writer and scientist C. P. Snow bemoaned the fact that students saw themselves either as scientists or as following a humanities path. He despaired that “There seems…to be no place where the cultures meet.”

When I was at school studying A levels, it was taken for granted that the boys would choose mathematics and science subjects while the girls would go down the arts and humanities route. Roll forward a few (well, a lot of) years, and this is still a hard nut to crack: I work in an IB school where very few girls choose higher-level physics and only rarely do boys choose higher-level art and design. Continued …

Coup prevention bill draws opposition

The Bhumjaithai Party has opposed a bill proposed by the ruling Pheu Thai Party to amend the Defense Ministry Administration Act, which is seen as a bid to curb the military’s ability to stage a coup d’etat.

Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul said on Monday that he did not think the bill would prevent a putsch, adding that politicians must not create conditions that the military may use as an excuse to stage a coup. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Southern alert sounds over more expected rain misery

The Operation Center for Flood and Landslide Victims has warned authorities and residents to prepare for new downpours in the southern region, already battered by widespread flooding.

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who also directs the center, ordered authorities, which include more than 4,000 officials involved in southern flood mitigation, to brace for further inundation in some areas. Continued … 

Train services back to normal in southern Thailand Thursday

All southern trains will resume normal operations on Thursday, after fatal flooding in the region damaged the tracks, forcing them to terminate at Hat Yai station.

State Railway of Thailand Gov. Veeris Ammarapala announced on Monday trains will resume traveling to as far as Sungai Kolok station in Narathiwat province on Thursday, including all night express and rapid trains leaving Bangkok to Yala and Sungai Kolok stations on Wednesday. Continued …

5 Workers Found Dead at Fermented Fish Factory Pit

In an incident in Lom Sak district, Phetchabun province, five workers were found dead in a waste pit at a fermented fish factory in Nong Khwai subdistrict. The incident occurred yesterday.

Initial reports indicate that the workers entered the pit to clean it but succumbed to unforeseen circumstances. The victims, all male, were discovered lying at the bottom of the pits. Continued …

Thai Singer Died from Blood and Fungal Infections, Not from Neck Massage

Singer Chayada Prao-hom, 20, known as Ping Chayada, has passed away from septicemia, after a series of massage treatments. Her death hd raised questions regarding the safety of such services, especially after routine sessions.

Chayada, a promising young look thung/mor lam singer, initially sought relief from neck and shoulder pain at a local massage parlour in Udon Thani on Oct. 5. Over the course of the following weeks, her condition deteriorated, leading to her untimely death on Sunday. Continued …

Another foreigner falls to his death from Pattaya condo

Early this morning, police authorities in Pattaya were alerted to an incident involving the fatal fall of a foreign national from a condominium on Pattaya Second Road, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province.

Upon arrival at the scene, authorities discovered the lifeless body of the victim, later identified as Tero Sakari Karppinen, a 52- year-old Finnish national. The body was found near the building, severely disfigured with broken bones and serious head trauma. Continued …

Five issues for Paetongtarn government

The government led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to present its progress after three months in office on Thursday, to inform the public about its achievements and advancements in key policies.

Since the government started to work, there have been continuous efforts for a year and three months. However, there are still five hot issues that the government has yet to push forward. Continued …

Thailand Requires Strategic Reforms to Accelerate Economic Growth

Thailand’s economy is expected to see a moderate boost in 2024, with a growth forecast of 2.8%, fueled by strong private demand, a resurgence in tourism, and increased government spending.

However, experts warn that unless structural reforms and development plans are successfully implemented, the country may struggle to maintain momentum. Continued …

Concerns grow over nationwide wage hike amid economic uncertainty

The chairmen of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) recently expressed support for improving the income levels of Thai workers but stopped short of endorsing the 400-baht nationwide increase.

TCC Chairman Sanan Angubolkul said the proposal to bring the daily minimum wage to 400 baht nationwide was concerning because global and domestic economic volatility caused by geopolitical factors pose challenges for Thailand and its business sectors. Continued …

Committee to meet on Thursday to discuss minimum wage hike

All eyes are on the upcoming meeting of a new tripartite wage committee, which is expected to decide on the government’s plan to hike the daily minimum wage to 400 baht on Jan. 1. The wage hike is among the flagship policies of the ruling Pheu Thai Party.

Labor Permanent Secretary Boonsong Thapchaiyuth said the 15-member tripartite committee is ready for the meeting set for Thursday, as the cabinet has appointed two members to fill the vacant seats on the committee. Continued …

Auto sales rut in Thailand to drag on for years

Sluggish car sales are expected to plague the Thai automotive industry for at least another 1-2 years, with total domestic sales projected to plunge to 560,000 units in 2024, according to Hyundai Mobility Thailand, a subsidiary of South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group. Sales tallied 775,780 units in 2023.

The market faces several problems, including slow Thai economic growth, weak consumer purchasing power, and strict auto loan criteria from banks and car financing companies based on the high level of household debt. Continued …

Thailand trails Asia in rice yield race – by a lot

Thailand’s rice yields are significantly lower than other major Asian rice producers, according to Anon Nonsee, deputy director general of the Department of Rice. The average rice yield in Thailand is about 400 to 500 kilograms per rai (0.16 hectares), far below Vietnam’s 1,000 kilograms per rai and China’s 1,000 to 1,200 kilograms per rai.

While some Thai rice varieties can achieve yields similar to these countries, jasmine rice, renowned for its fragrance and soft texture, brings the average down due to its lower yield of 350 to 400 kilograms per rai. Jasmine rice’s unique qualities are tied to the dry conditions in the northeast and parts of the north, which enhance its aroma but reduce output. Continued …

Electric vehicles banned by Koh Samui ferries

Electric vehicle (EV) owners planning to visit Koh Samui for the New Year holidays have been left disappointed following an announcement by Raja Ferry PLC that it will temporarily suspend ferry services for EVs due to safety concerns. The company cited risks associated with EV batteries, particularly the potential for overheating and fires, as the reason for the decision.

The announcement has caused concern among EV owners both on Koh Samui and those planning to visit during the festive season. Raja Ferry stated that the suspension is intended to ensure the safety of passengers and their belongings, sparking uncertainty for EV users seeking alternatives to access the island. Continued …

Suvarnabhumi Airport Prepares for New Year Holiday Tourist Surge

The Immigration Bureau is gearing up for an unprecedented surge in tourist arrivals during the New Year period, with Suvarnabhumi Airport potentially handling up to 120,000 passengers daily. The bureau is also intensifying efforts to crack down on foreign criminals nationwide.

Yesterday, officials conducted an inspection of immigration operations at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The inspection focused on examining checkpoint systems and identifying potential issues during peak passenger traffic periods. Continued …

Thailand MICE sector grows 42% to 1.16 million tourists in 2024

Thailand’s meetings, awards, conferences, seminars and exhibitions sector (MICE) has seen a 42% increase in international tourist arrivals in fiscal year 2024 (October 2023 – September 2024), with a total of 1.16 million attendees. This growth brings the sector close to its pre-pandemic peak of 1.2 million MICE tourists in 2019, according to the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

Looking ahead to 2025, Thailand is set to continue its growth, with several major international events expected to attract between 5,000 and 10,000 attendees each. The top five markets driving this growth were China, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Germany, the United States and Japan. Among Europe and the United Kingdom, the biggest contributors to growth were Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia, France and Italy. Continued … 

Winter holiday in Thailand? Be careful in traffic

Thailand equals beautiful beaches, friendly people and delicious food. But Thailand is also known for chaotic traffic and a very lenient attitude to traffic rules. The country is number 9 on the list of the world’s most dangerous countries in terms of traffic, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), only surpassed by a number of African countries, Venezuela and Saudi Arabia.

If you are planning your winter holiday on a trip to Thailand, SOS International encourages you to take precautions so that your holiday does not end in an accident. Both the traffic culture, the condition of vehicles, the design of the roads and the working conditions of local drivers all play a role in the traffic conditions. Continued …

Top 5 restaurants in Phuket’s Cherng Talay

Looking for the best places to eat in Cherng Talay in Phuket? We’ve got you covered with these top spots. From local flavors to international cuisine, these restaurants are worth checking out.

Cherng Talay has grown into a culinary gem that blends rich Thai traditions with bold global influences. From authentic local dishes to creative fusion menus, this neighborhood offers a dining experience that truly stands out. Here are the top restaurants that define Cherng Talay’s rich food scene. Continued …

Solar Power Lights Up Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia, with its tropical climate advantages and growing energy demand, is becoming one of the most vibrant regions in solar energy development. Countries in the region have been implementing many large-scale projects, from floating solar power plants to rooftop solar systems.

With abundant solar energy resources, Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam have identified solar energy as one of the pillars in their national energy-development strategies. Investment incentives, financial support, and tax-reduction policies have facilitated the development of this clean energy industry. Continued …

Efforts to tackle plastic waste face challenges worldwide

Each year, the world produces around 400 million tons of plastic waste, much of it discarded after just a few minutes of use. Negotiators had hoped to reach the world’s first treaty on plastic pollution this year. Still, single-use plastic remains hugely popular as a cheap and convenient choice.

Thailand produces two million tons of plastic waste a year, according to the country’s Pollution Control Department. The World Bank estimates 11% of this waste goes uncollected and is burned, disposed of on land or leaks into rivers and the ocean. Continued …

BCPG to invest Bt32 billion in power projects

BCPG Plc, the power generation arm of energy conglomerate Bangchak Corp., is preparing to spend more than 32 billion baht next year to fund investments in Thailand and overseas, paving the way for greater use of clean energy.

The amount is 10 times more than the company’s capital spending in 2023, which totaled 3.2 billion baht. Among the investments are solar and wind farms in Laos and Vietnam. Continued …

Bangkok’s latest green lung unveiled at government complex festival

The Chaloem Phrakiat Government Complex in Chaeng Watthana is inviting the public to sample Bangkok’s latest green lung at its year-end “D Garden Food & Music” festival. Parking areas at the government complex now incorporate two large sky parks, covering over 8,662 square meters (5.4 rai), making it the largest green space on Chaeng Watthana Road and Lak Si district. The new green lung comprises rooftop sky parks on two buildings and a public park. (The Nation)

Massacre in Haiti leaves nearly 200 dead

More than 180 people were killed in a massacre over the weekend in one of the poorest neighborhoods of Haiti’s capital, the United Nations (UN) human rights chief said Monday. A leading Haitian human rights group described the killings as the personal vendetta of a gang boss who had been told that witchcraft caused his son’s fatal illness. Continued …

Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras tour wraps up

Pop superstar Taylor Swift on Sunday ended her Eras tour with the 149th show in Vancouver’s BC Place stadium, British Columbia. Spanning five continents over almost two years, the tour sold over $2 billion in tickets. Video …

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
bangkok, climate change, exports, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Dec 2

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Hua Hin water disruption/New measures to combat drought/600 in Thai Triathlon/Rama II Road fix in two weeks/Rama 2 deaths reach 142/Shots to Scare Wild Elephants/Thailand Flooding Kills Nine/Flooding eases in Hat Yai/Bangkok to face thick smog/Laos factory owner arrested/Formaldehyde Found in E-Cigarette Liquids/Postal law rejig/ECONOMY: Strategies for growth and development/Economy expected to reach 3.3%/Step up exports to China/Factory layoffs dampen economy/Energy key for digital hub plan/To invest 62 billion baht more/Foton Motor inaugurates plant/Motorcycle sales to increase/Free-trade deal with EFTA/TOURISM: Phuket’s taxi mafia/Global Wellness Tourism Leader/Quiet Fishing Village to Vibrant Tourist Hub/Digital Nomad Winter Hotspots/Israeli tourist attacked/Kolkata to Phuket flights/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Tom Yum Kung soup to gain recognition/Explore December 2024/Breakfast Street Food Tour/Best fine dining in Bangkok/Phuket carnival rolls out beach carpet/CLIMATE THAILAND: Hydrogen and nuclear power/Solar key to ‘green ports’ push/Phuket to Slash Food Waste/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

Hua Hin water disruption now set for Dec 11-18

Continued …

 

PKK considers new measures to combat drought

Continued …

600 participate in Thai Triathlon

Continued …

Rama II Road fix in two weeks, new lane to relieve traffic

The outbound lanes on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon will be re-opened to traffic within 14 days after work to clear the site of Friday’s crane collapse is finished, according to the Department of Highways (DoH).

Director-general Apirat Chaiwongnoi said on Sunday work was underway to remove debris from the collapsed section of the elevated Ekkachai-Ban Phaeo Intercity Motorway 82 (M82) project. Continued …

Rama 2 motorway construction deaths reach 142

Six more workers were killed and 11 injured in Rama 2 motorway collapse, pushing the total death toll to 142 since 2018. Thailand’s police chief ordered a criminal probe, as officials investigate the cause of the disaster and promised compensation for victims’ families.

On Friday, a sixth fatality was confirmed after heavy girders and cement elements crashed during a difficult engineering maneuver. The incident occurred in Samut Sakhon province, south of Bangkok, as workers toiled on the Rama 2 motorway project. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Driver Fires Shots to Scare Wild Elephants in Kaeng Krachan National Park

Authorities are pursuing legal action against unidentified individuals in a black car who fired four gunshots at wild elephants in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Prachuap Khiri Khan. The perpetrators face six serious charges under wildlife, firearm, and national park laws.

Mongkol Chaiphakdee, chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park, revealed that on Nov. 29, at around 7 pm, a concerned citizen reported the incident, seen via a TikTok video. The footage captured individuals in the car firing shots on Nong Phlap–Huai Sat Yai Road, Huai Sat Yai subdistrict, Hua Hin district. Wild elephants were present on the road during the shooting. Continued …

Thailand Flooding Kills Nine, Displaces Thousands

Flooding driven by heavy rains in southern Thailand has killed nine people and displaced more than 13,000, officials said Saturday, as rescue teams using boats and jet skis worked to reach stranded residents. Local media footage showed residents wading through murky, chest-deep water and cars submerged in flooded streets.

“Flooding across eight provinces in southern Thailand has affected 553,921 households and claimed nine lives, prompting agencies to mobilize urgent assistance,” the country’s disaster agency said. Continued …

Flooding eases in Hat Yai, but parts of southern Thailand still under water

Hat Yai, the economic hub in Thailand’s south, is slowly getting back to normal, while flooding elsewhere in the southern provinces remains serious after the region was inundated by downpours that triggered deluges.

Municipality workers have started to remove flood debris and repair roads in the city to clear the surfaces for traffic after flooding from rain and overflowing canals paralyzed the main city in Songkhla province. Continued …

Greater Bangkok to face thick smog from today to Friday

The Pollution Control Department is warning that people in Greater Bangkok will face thick smog from Monday to Friday due to smoke from farmland and stagnant air over the capital and nearby provinces.

The department said yesterday that on Saturday there were 184 hot spots in Thailand and most of them, about 140, resulted from fires on farmland. The smoke from agricultural areas was blown by northeasterly winds toward the southwest. Continued …

Laos factory owner arrested in methanol poisoning tourist tragedy

In a case that has sent shockwaves across the globe, police in Laos arrested the owner of a factory believed to be the source of a deadly methanol poisoning incident that claimed the lives of six foreign tourists. The factory, situated on the outskirts of Vientiane, the capital city, is suspected of producing toxic batches of the local favorites, Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whiskey.

The victims, including two Melbourne teenagers, two Danish women, an American man, and a British lawyer, fell ill after consuming the lethal concoctions in Vang Vieng. Continued …

Alarming Formaldehyde Levels Found in E-Cigarette Liquids

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has raised alarms about the presence of formaldehyde in e-cigarette liquids illicitly sold within Thailand, warning that the chemical’s aerosol form is carcinogenic.

Phanumat Yannawetsakun, DDC director-general, highlighted the trend of low awareness among the youth about the health risks posed by toxic substances in vape juices. The increasing allure of flavored e-liquids, designed to entice young users, often harbors toxins, notably formaldehyde. Continued …

Postal law rejig to improve delivery service

The Digital Economy and Society Ministry has directed Thailand Post to revise the arcane Postal Act of 1934, in a bid to better regulate postal and logistics services and improve service quality, in accordance with the business landscape.

The draft is expected to be completed next year, said Thailand Post President Dhanant Subhadrabandhu. The bill title will differ from the original law as the business landscape has dramatically changed, he said. Continued …

Institute offers strategies for growth and development

The International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD) is preparing to present the findings of a study on strategies to drive economic growth and development in tourism, agriculture and food, healthcare, and the digital economy.

The institute expects to present the plan to the Commerce Ministry, the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Thai Industries within this month. Continued …

Thailand’s economy expected to strengthen, reaching 3.3% in 2025

Thailand’s economy is strengthening due to robust private demand, ongoing tourism recovery, and increased government spending, according to AMRO’s 2024 annual consultation report on Thailand.

The report emphasizes that private consumption and investment remain pivotal growth drivers, fueled by rising consumer confidence and favorable financing conditions. Moreover, the resurgence of international tourism has substantially enhanced service exports, while government efforts in infrastructure development and fiscal stimulus have further strengthened economic progress. Continued … 

Chamber of Commerce urges Thai firms to step up exports to China

The Thai Chamber of Commerce in China (TCCC) has urged Thai exporters to be prepared for fiercer competition in Chinese markets under a new zero-import-tariff policy, but says it could also be a good opportunity for them.

TCCC Vice President Paichit Wiboonthanasarn said China has started enforcing zero-import-tariff measures for developing countries from yesterday. Paichit said the policy was apparently aimed at countering U.S. government plans to heighten import tariffs – especially by the new administration under President-elect Donald Trump. Continued …

Factory layoffs dampen economy hopes

Massive layoffs at large factories, including a report that Nissan is set to axe or relocate more than 1,000 workers in Thailand, have disrupted the labor market.

According to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), there were 414,000 unemployed people in the third quarter this year, up from 401,000 year-on-year. Factory closures in the second half of the year may exacerbate the situation, following 667 closures and the loss of 17,674 jobs in the first half. Continued …

Energy key to push for digital hub plan

The state’s ambitious goal to make Thailand a digital economic hub in Southeast Asia, driven by the growth of domestic data center and cloud service businesses, may be achieved at the cost of huge resources.

These facilities are crucial for artificial intelligence (AI), which is playing a bigger role in a variety of jobs, from optimizing production plans for factories to driving sales for retail businesses. Continued …

Japanese electronic component maker to invest 62 billion baht more in Thailand

Murata Electronics (Thailand) Co. will invest 62 billion baht more to build a new advanced capacitor factory in Thailand, the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand said.

IEAT Acting Gov. Sumet Tangprasert said Murata Electronics, a subsidiary of Murata Manufacturing of Japan, would spend 3 billion baht to build a new factory on a 65-rai (10.4-hectare) plot in Lamphun province. Continued …

Foton Motor inaugurates Thailand plant

Chinese commercial vehicle maker Foton Motor celebrated the completion of its Thailand factory last week. At the event, the automaker saw an all-electric heavy-duty truck roll off the production line at the Thai facility, which represents the one millionth vehicle produced for Foton Motor’s overseas business (including export and local production outside of China).

The Thailand factory is operated by CP FOTON, a joint venture established by Foton Motor and CP Group in 2019. The venture aims to position Foton Motor among the top three commercial vehicle brands in Thailand and serve as a manufacturing hub for the ASEAN region. Continued …

Motorcycle sales set to increase in Q4

Motorcycle sales, especially completely knocked-down (CKD) units, in the final quarter this year are expected to increase, thanks to more purchase orders overseas, which caused exports to skyrocket in October, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

Many countries, especially in Asia, bought more CKD units for reassembly as sellers want new motorcycle models, said Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the FTI and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club. Continued …

Thailand to finalize free-trade deal with EFTA by January

Thailand is set to finalize a free-trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) by January next year, aiming to boost its export market and draw European investors. This announcement from the Ministry of Commerce emphasizes a strategic step forward in Thailand’s economic expansion.

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan confirmed the completion of negotiations for the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with EFTA, which includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Continued …

Phuket’s taxi mafia continues to overcharge and threaten passengers

Visitors to Phuket island have long been familiar with the ongoing issue of overcharging by taxi drivers, a problem that has persisted for years. The notorious “taxi mafia” in Phuket continues to exploit both tourists and locals, charging vastly inflated fares and even resorting to violence when they spot passengers using alternative ride-hailing services like Grab.

Despite numerous complaints from both residents and tourists, no substantial action has been taken to address the issue. The aggressive behavior of some taxi drivers has created an atmosphere of fear, especially for those choosing to opt for Grab rides, which often face resistance from traditional taxi drivers. Continued …

Phuket Evolves into a Global Wellness Tourism Leader

Wellness tourism is in great shape. One of the fastest-growing areas of the tourism industry, the sector has grown from a niche market for committed health seekers to become a Bt19 trillion (USD6.3 trillion) global powerhouse. At the heart of this revolution is Asia Pacific, which accounts for 30% of the worldwide market and where pioneering destinations such as Phuket have successfully changed the face of wellness tourism.

In the latest in a series of C9 Sessions, C9 Hotelworks, a Phuket-based tourism, hospitality and real estate consultancy, presented “Phuket’s New Wellness Trends for Hotels, Tourism & Real Estate”, an immersive event that revealed the latest insights and intelligence on the ever-evolving and expanding wellness tourism industry in Thailand and Phuket. Continued …

Pattaya Flourishes from Quiet Fishing Village to Vibrant Tourist Hub

Once a serene fishing village along Thailand’s eastern gulf coast, Pattaya has morphed into a bustling tourism powerhouse over the decades. This remarkable transformation springs from strategic development, increased infrastructure investment, and an expansive range of attractions that beckon global visitors.

Back in the 1970s, Pattaya was a humble seaside community primarily sustained by fishing. Its untouched beaches and serene ambiance began attracting visitors seeking tranquil escapes. The Vietnam War played a crucial role, as American soldiers deployed in the region frequented Pattaya for leisure, igniting the town’s initial tourism spark. Continued …

Bangkok On Top Among Digital Nomad Winter Hotspots

Printful, a renowned print-on-demand company, has rolled out its list of top 10 destinations for digital nomads. Southeast Asia emerged as the most popular escape for digital nomads this winter, with Bangkok in Thailand clinching the first spot, followed closely by Phnom Penh in Cambodia and Hanoi in Vietnam.

The list is based on factors like average salary, employment rates, cost of living, and expenses like rent, food, and transport. Other factors include monthly coworking hot desk rates, average temperatures, Wi-Fi speed, and the monthly cost of Airbnbs. Continued …

Israeli tourist attacked by German tourists

An incident involving a 22-year-old Israeli holidaymaker in Thailand has ignited further concern among Israeli tourists. The young backpacker, referred to as Mr. Ilay, was reportedly attacked by a group of German tourists in the country’s scenic north, according to a media source. This assault occurred against the backdrop of recent security warnings affecting Israelis in the region.

Mr. Ilay recounted the harrowing moment, saying, “I was walking past a group of four young Germans. One asked, ‘Where are you from? Israel?’ Before I could respond properly, he hit me in the face.” This unprovoked violence quickly escalated as the group reportedly pushed and kicked him, hurling derogatory insults with one particularly offensive phrase that reflects ongoing prejudices, calling him “Israeli son of a wh***.” Continued …

IndiGo launches non-stop Kolkata to Phuket flights

Starting Dec. 27, low-cost carrier IndiGo will begin operating direct flights between Kolkata and Phuket, the airline said on Friday. This will be IndiGo’s second direct flight to Phuket, following Delhi.

The new route will expand IndiGo’s global network and cater to the growing number of tourists from India to Thailand, the airline said in a statement. Continued …

Thailand’s famed Tom Yum Kung soup to gain UNESCO recognition

The addition of Thailand’s Tom Yum Kung and the jointly submitted kebaya are likely to be registered as intangible cultural heritage items at the upcoming session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (IGC) taking place in Asunción, Paraguay, tomorrow (Wednesday in Thailand), Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol announced today.

She expressed confidence that Thailand’s submissions would be officially recognized and included in the representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (RL) for 2024 at the meeting. Continued …

Explore December 2024 with Thailand’s top events

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites you to plan your December travels with these must-see festivals and events across the country: Continued …

Thai Breakfast Street Food Tour in Bangkok Silom Soi 20

There was so much food to choose from at Silom Soi 20 in Bangkok. I’m still thinking about that chicken and rice. Video …

Best fine dining restaurants in Bangkok

What does Thai food really encompass? Some may think of the use of local ingredients — the aromatic spices that are hard-hitting, and an intense level of spiciness. Many might refer to the generous portions and the sense of community, as your meals are often presented sharing-style.

In Bangkok, these time-tested restaurants have really done their homework, and even people born and raised here can appreciate all these elements, in an elevated setting. Continued …

Phuket carnival rolls out beach carpet for tourists

Phuket is gearing up to roll out the red carpet for tourists worldwide with the Phuket Carnival at Patong 2024. This annual spectacle, a hallmark of the island’s high tourist season, promises to be bigger and better than ever with its theme, Phuket Memories of a Lifetime.

Taking place Dec. 8-10 at the Bang La grounds next to Patong Beach, the carnival kicks off at 10 am and promises three days of vibrant festivities. With over 30 parades, the event is set to be a magnet for tourists, as Lalita Maneesiri, Patong deputy mayor, states. Continued …

Hydrogen and nuclear power to drive transition to clean energy

Hydrogen energy will be used for electricity generation starting in 2030, according to Thailand’s newest power development plan (PDP) and the electricity generation plan of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT).

The new PDP emphasizes a higher share of renewable energy at 51%, predominantly solar, with 40% coming from natural gas and 5% from hydrogen. By the end of the plan, small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) with a capacity of 600 MW will be introduced as an option. Continued …

Solar key to Thailand’s ‘green ports’ push

The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has introduced solar rooftops at its ports in a bid to establish “green ports”. The rooftops are expected to produce five million kilowatt-hours of solar energy annually.

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri said the initiative underscores the global urgency for environmental stewardship. The ministry is pushing for all its agencies to embrace green logistics to transition to a low-carbon society in line with environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles, she said. Continued …

Phuket Unveils Plan to Slash Food Waste

Phuket has embarked on a mission to reduce food waste by 15 tons daily as part of its commitment to becoming a low-carbon holiday destination. This initiative is crucial given the island’s emerging waste-management challenges driven by a booming tourism sector.

Phuket, with approximately 1,000 tons of waste daily, faces pressure from the rising influx of visitors and expanding businesses. From January to September this year alone, the island has already welcomed about nine million tourists, with numbers expected to climb. Continued …

Asia’s air taxi revolution: pioneering the future of urban mobility

Asia is at the forefront of a groundbreaking transformation in urban mobility with the rapid development of the air taxi industry. This sector, which combines cutting-edge technology in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft with sustainable transportation solutions, promises to revolutionize transit in the continent’s megacities. Video …

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

 

bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Nov 25

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Hua Hin water service disruptions/Van crash in Thap Sakae/CIMB Thai Triathlon/Hua Hin Art & Wellness Fair/Hua Hin Deepavali Festival/New Zealand citizen poisoned returns home/Laos vows justice/Where methanol poisonings happen most/Bangkok choked by pollution/End of free medicines policy/Thailand to expand child support/Thai healthcare tycoon flees/Elephants retreat in Korat/Songkhla mulling tunnel, bridge/Motorcycle gang crackdown/Police raid tiger trafficking ring/Phatthalung declared disaster zone/ECONOMY: To Investigate 27,000 Thai Nominee Businesses/Trump’s ‘tariff tantrums’/Foreigners take ownership of condos/New business registrations/Car production drops/Michelin pins investment on EV policy/Laos-China railway/How Japan Contributed to Thailand/TOURISM: What might hold tourism back/Destination Thailand Visa/Koh Kut tourism campaign/French tourist missing/Flight bomb threat/Israel raises travel warning/Vietjet Thailand Mumbai–Bangkok service/Satisfaction with airlines/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Rising Wave of Boutique Thai Liquors/7 best islands to visit/Rolled Ice Cream/CLIMATE THAILAND: ‘Greener’ transport key to growth/UN climate talks agreement/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 to face water service disruptions Dec 2-9

Continued …

 

Van crash in Thap Sakae district leaves 3 dead

In the early hours yesterday, a crash occurred on Phetkasem Road Huai Yang subdistrict, Thap Sakae District, Prachuap Khiri Khan. A red-plate Toyota van used for transporting a psychiatric patient collided with the rear of a trailer truck, resulting in three fatalities and one injury.

The accident happened at approximately 2: am just 2 kilometers before Wanakorn Beach National Park. The van used by the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) to transport a psychiatric patient for treatment in Nakhon Pathom was returning to Chumphon when the crash occurred. Continued …

CIMB Thai Triathlon Sunday

Continued …

Hua Hin Art & Wellness Fair Dec 6-8

Continued …

Hua Hin Deepavali Festival set for Dec 6

Continued …

New Zealand citizen poisoned by tainted alcohol in Laos returns home

A New Zealand citizen poisoned after drinking contaminated alcohol in a popular tourist town in Laos has returned home, authorities said today, as Laos pledged to prosecute those responsible for the incident that has killed six tourists.

“The New Zealand Embassy in Bangkok has been providing assistance to one New Zealander who we believe to have been poisoned with methanol in Laos. They have now departed Laos and returned home,” a New Zealand Foreign Ministry spokesperson said by email, without providing further details on the person. Continued … 

Laos vows justice after tainted alcohol kills tourists

The Lao government is “profoundly saddened” by the deaths of foreign tourists from drinking alcohol contaminated with methanol and pledged to prosecute those responsible.

Two Danes, two Australians, a Briton and an American have died after visiting Vang Vieng, an idyllic town that is popular with foreign backpackers, and drinking contaminated alcohol. Continued …

Here’s where methanol poisonings happen most

Two Australian teenagers died this week after becoming ill with suspected methanol poisoning in Laos, along with a dozen other tourists. Six people have now died, and they are all believed to have consumed drinks laced with methanol.

The Australian government has updated its travel advice for Laos, telling residents to be alert to the potential risk of spirit-based drinks, including cocktails. But this is not the first instance of methanol poisoning. Experts say it is widespread but often goes undiagnosed, and describe it as a “forgotten crisis”. Continued …

Bangkok choked by pollution

Prof. Rawiwan Oranratmanee was an impressively health-conscious person. Her routine workout included yoga, jogging and cycling, among others. Yet, at the age of only 55, she was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.

The dean of the faculty of Architecture at Chiang Mai University, Rawiwan passed away shortly after her first chemotherapy session. The malignancy was said to have caused by PM2.5, which resulted in a gene mutation. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Alarm over end of Thailand’s free medicines policy

A civil society group is unhappy with the Medical Council of Thailand’s legal action against the National Health Security Office (NHSO)’s policy over free medicine for 16 ailments under the universal healthcare scheme. It suggested the council immediately withdraw the lawsuit for the sake of patients.

Saree Aongsomwang, secretary-general of the Thailand Consumer Council (TCC), on Saturday expressed concern about the conflict between the Medical Council of Thailand and the Pharmacy Council of Thailand after the Supreme Administrative Court accepted the council’s complaint against the NHSO policy, which provides free medicine at pharmacies for symptoms on the list. Continued …

Thailand to expand child support to all under six years old

Thailand’s Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is poised to propose an expansion of the early childhood development scheme, with plans to present the child support proposal to the Cabinet shortly.

The scheme aims to broaden its reach by extending financial support to all children under six years of age, enhancing the current system that aids children from impoverished families. Continued …

Thai healthcare tycoon Boon Vanasin flees as fraud charges mount

Boon Vanasin, the founder of Thonburi Healthcare Group (THG), is currently at large in China while his wife and daughter have surrendered to the police in Thailand.

Faced with charges of public fraud, 79-year-old Jaruwan Vanasin, and her daughter, 51-year-old Nalin, turned themselves in to the police and have denied all allegations against them. Continued …

Elephants retreat after night-long standoff near farmland in Korat

About 100 wild elephants retreated after a standoff with volunteers trying to protect farmland in Khon Buri district of the northeastern Thai province of Korat from Saturday night to early Sunday morning.

Volunteers spotted at least 20 wild elephants gathering near the boundary of the Thap Lan National Park at about 9pm on Saturday. The wild animals appeared to be approaching sugarcane, cassava and cord fields in Taling Chan village. Continued …

Songkhla mulling tunnel, bridge options for lake

The Department of Rural Roads (DoRR) is conducting a feasibility study for a project to develop an alternative route across Songkhla Lake, connecting Muang district with Singha Nakhon district.

Speaking to a recent meeting of state agencies and locals, Weeradej Cheewapattananuwong, a senior design engineer from the DoRR, said the feasibility study is examining two options — a bridge across the lake or a tunnel. The initial findings are expected next month, he said. Continued …

Phetchabun police detain 722 in motorcycle gang crackdown

Police in Phetchabun detained 722 people linked to the Nam Mai Aab motorcycle gang gathering, roughly translating to no showering or no bathing. Over 10,000 participants and 6,000 motorcycles assembled in the province, prompting police action to maintain order and ensure public safety.

The gathering took place over two days, with Phetchabun’s Provincial Police Commander Saranai Kongmuang directing units to enforce measures against unsafe and disruptive driving. The initiative also targeted illegal sales of alcohol and kratom, aiming to curb driving under the influence, a leading cause of accidents. Continued …

Police raid tiger trafficking ring in Nonthaburi

Police recently raided a tiger carcass trafficking ring in Nonthaburi, discovering a large tiger skin openly advertised for sale on social media. This operation followed a tip-off received Saturday, prompting swift action from local and international wildlife protection agencies.

Attaphol Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, noted that the raid was part of an intensified crackdown on illegal wildlife trade directed by Varawut Silpa-archa, minister of Natural Resources and Environment. Continued …

Phatthalung declared disaster zone amid severe flooding

Severe flooding has hit several areas in the southern province of Phatthalung, prompting officials to declare disaster zones across four districts, affecting 15 subdistricts, 57 villages, and 12 communities. The heavy rainfall has led to both flood and wind disaster declarations, with urgent evacuations underway to move residents to safer areas.

Phatthalung, being a low-lying area, naturally receives water from the neighboring districts of Srinagarindra and Kong Ra, exacerbating the flooding situation. Currently, six subdistricts, 42 villages, and 12 communities have reported significant distress due to the inundation. Continued …

DBD to Investigate 27,000 Thai Nominee Businesses

The Thai Department of Business Development (DBD) is set to investigate 27,000 juristic persons next year as part of its intensified crackdown on the use of Thai nominees by foreign enterprises. This move is a response to mounting complaints from local businesses and collaborations with various agencies, noted Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the DBD.

The focus will be on sectors such as tourism, real estate, hotels and resorts, transport and logistics, as well as e-commerce and warehouses. Continued …

Trump’s ‘tariff tantrums’ threaten Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam – and beyond

For Malaysian recruiter Joseph Cheng, Donald Trump’s first stint in the White House brought a windfall. The U.S. president’s trade war with China triggered a rush of Chinese companies relocating to countries like Malaysia, desperately seeking refuge from punitive tariffs.

“They sent their goods here to be repackaged … and then sent them onto the U.S.,” said Cheng, director of recruitment agency Agensi Pekerjaan TSM, recalling the frantic scramble to find staff to accommodate the influx. Continued …

Foreigners take ownership of condos worth 18.571 billion in 3rd quarter

A total of 3,756 condo units worth 18.571 billion baht were transferred to foreign buyers in the third quarter of this year, the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) announced.

Kamolpop Veerapala, president of Government Housing Bank and acting REIC director, said the number of condominium units transferred to foreigners during the third quarter rose by 11.6% and their value rose 8.9% from the same period last year. Continued …

New business registrations set to top 90,000 this year

The number of new business registrations this year is expected to exceed 90,000, driven by the rebound in exports and tourism, as well as the government’s stimulus measures in the final quarter.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Business Development (DBD), said new business registrations for the first 10 months of 2024 rose by 2.18% year-on-year to 76,653. Continued …

Thailand October car production drops 25.1% y/y

Car production in Thailand fell 25.1% in October from a year earlier to 118,842 units, as truck output slumped heavily, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) said on Monday.

The figure followed a 25.5% fall in September, and was the 15th straight month that production had contracted. Production of pickup trucks dropped 27.8% in October from a year earlier while truck output tumbled 77.5%. Continued …

Michelin pins Thai investment on EV policy

French tire maker Michelin vows to expand its investment in Thailand, hoping to benefit from the government’s electric vehicle (EV) promotion policy despite weak domestic car sales.

The company wants to increase sales by introducing more innovative products and technologies, while joining the global campaign to have a more eco-friendly business direction. Continued … 

Laos-China railway boosts trade and tourism, but also Beijing’s clout

In the Laotian border town of Boten, the arrival of a sleek, modern train on a route that connects with southern China is a sign of growing trade and tourism links between one of Southeast Asia’s poorest countries and its giant neighbor. But it also signifies a marked rise in Chinese influence in Laos, and the drawing of the country closer into Beijing’s orbit.

The 1,035-kilometer line connecting Kunming in southwest China’s Yunnan Province with the Laotian capital Vientiane opened in late 2021, although trains only started crossing the border after the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in April 2023. Continued …

How Japan Contributed to the Development of Thailand

Looking at the past seven decades of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Thailand was like looking at how Thailand modernized herself. Japan has dispatched 12,000 technical experts and 1,100 volunteers to Thailand over the decades, while Thailand sent 33,000 technical trainees to Japan.

The past two decades or so, in particular, saw key infrastructures developed, partly thanks to Japan’s Yen Loan (or low-interest loan) and made possible the completion of Suvarnabhumi International Airport (2006) and the MRT Blue Line (2004). (On top of 14 out of 20 bridges across the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok and nearby provinces.). Continued …

What might hold Thailand’s tourism back

As Thailand officials urged tourism operators to brace for global economic downturn and fiercer competition, readers shared their problems with the country that is usually vouched as a tourism paradise in Asia.

“I just came from Chiang Mai, Thailand. Everything is dead there, no customers, few tourists, lots of shops closed. Everybody complains about business being really bad and having no money. I’ve been going to Thailand for 30 years, never seen it that bad.” Continued …

Destination Thailand Visa: a hugely successful move but with ongoing ambiguities

Nostradamus the seer was very wise not to include the still-evolving DTV in his futuristic predictions. Still, over the course of the last four months, we have learned a lot: Thai embassies and consulates worldwide interpret the published rules and required documentation at their own discretion.

In general, the rules have softened so that applicants can apply not only from their main base, but wherever they are on a visa run. But illegal applications from within Thailand remain a risky non-no. After all, your Thai immigration record will show when you are – or, in fact, are not – resident in the kingdom. Continued …

New Koh Kut tourism campaign launched

Koh Kut has many interesting beaches to offer that are often overlooked, according to the local Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office, which has launched a new campaign to promote the island’s attractions during the peak season from now until April.

Ferry service between mainland Trat and Koh Kut is available daily from 10am to 4pm, during which the seas, beaches, sky and forests are at their most beautiful, said Korakot Opas, director of the TAT office in the eastern province of Trat. Continued …

French tourist missing as Tour Boat Capsizes in Cheow Lan Dam in Storm

A long-tail tour boat carrying 13 people capsized in the Cheow Lan Dam lake (Ratchaprapha Dam) in Surat Thani province after being hit by a sudden storm, leaving one French tourist missing and others injured.

The incident occurred just before noon Saturday, near the scenic Three Friends Mountain (Khao Sam Kler), a popular tourist attraction in the area. The missing passenger, 83-year-old Rene Mary Corre, was among a group of 10 French tourists on a trip to Thailand, guided by a local tour company. Continued …

Singaporean held for flight bomb threat

Authorities have arrested a man holding a Singaporean passport following a bomb threat called in against an AirAsia flight departing from Bangkok to Hat Yai.

The threat was reported at 2.47pm last Thursday. A man, reportedly speaking Thai with an accent, contacted Don Mueang airport public relations and claimed that an AirAsia flight to Hat Yai in Songkhla was carrying explosives. Continued …

Israel raises travel warning for Thailand amid ‘persistence of threat’

The Israel National Security Council has raises the travel warning for Thailand to Level 2, nearly two weeks after an initial warning cited “the emergence of a potential threat to Israelis in the country.”

The warning comes after a Nov. 12 warning calling on Israelis to display increased vigilance, and the NSC says it is issuing the raised warning now “in light of the persistence of the threat.” Continued …

Vietjet Thailand to launch new Mumbai–Bangkok service

Expanding its presence in India, Vietjet Thailand has announced its inaugural Mumbai–Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) service, set to begin on Dec. 23.

In the early stage, the service will be operated with a daily flight; flight VZ761 will depart Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) at 00:45 AM and arrive in Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi: BKK) at 6:25 AM. The return flight VZ760 will depart Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) at 8:45 PM and land in Mumbai at 11:50 PM (all in local time). – traveltradejournal.com

Passengers record satisfaction with airlines

Airline passenger satisfaction remained high and stable this year, according to the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA), though the association suggested investing more in technology to meet customer demand.

IATA collected more than 10,000 responses from 200 countries to compile its Global Passenger Survey 2024. The survey revealed passenger satisfaction for flying was 82% in 2024, the same rate as last year, but an improvement from 75% recorded in 2019. Continued … 

Bangkok Bars Are Harnessing the Rising Wave of Boutique Thai Liquors

At Nuss Bar, a cocktail lounge nestled in Bangkok’s romantic Old Town district owned by award-winning bartender Ronnaporn Kanivichaporn and celebrity chef ThiTid “Ton” Tassanakajohn, every fanciful creation utilizes homegrown Thai craft liquors to their best advantage.

The seasonal menu plays on classic cocktails with riffs such as a lychee gimlet with Mork Kung Muang Lychee Spirits; a corn and coffee white Negroni with Sakthong Corn spirits and Nuss Bar Homemade Coffee Liqueur; and a Makmao sour with Winyaan Calamansi Spirits, Makmao Berry Juice, and Rice Paddy Herb. Continued …

7 best islands to visit in Thailand

Thailand is renowned for its breathtaking islands, offering diverse experiences ranging from tranquil beaches to vibrant nightlife. Here’s a guide to seven must-visit islands, how to reach them, and the top activities to enjoy.

Phuket

How to Go: Fly to Phuket International Airport or take a bus from Bangkok. What to Do: Visit Patong Beach for nightlife, explore Big Buddha and Old Phuket Town, and enjoy water sports at Kata and Karon beaches. Continued …

How Rolled Ice Cream Made Its Way From Thailand To Worldwide Fame

Once upon a time, social media was captivated by Thai rolled ice cream. Unlike your typical scoop, this sweet treat began as a liquid base, spread on a frosty pan, chopped, mixed with fresh fruits or toppings, and rolled into delicate strips right before your eyes. It was a show served in a cup with colorful toppings that quickly became an Instagram sensation.

The rolled ice cream trend, while not new, has been a street favorite in Thailand since its debut in 2009 as “I-TIM-PAD” by Kajitsa Premwimol. Gaining popularity across Thailand and neighboring countries, the concept made its way to the U.S. in 2015, when Premwimol and two friends opened I-CE-NY in New York City. Continued …

‘Greener’ transport key to growth

Across the Asia-Pacific region, especially in urban centers, electric cars and buses are increasingly replacing petrol-powered ones as a means of transportation. Aided by the ubiquity of smart devices, smart mobility and other transport innovations are significantly reshaping everyday life through ride-sharing apps, driver assistance technology and real-time traffic management.

With new highways and railways put in operation in the last decade, the region is getting yet more connected, while the ongoing digitalization of road, rail and maritime freight transport further improves efficiency and cost reduction. Continued …

Key points on the new funding deal from the UN climate talks agreement

In the wee hours Sunday at the United Nations climate talks, countries from around the world reached an agreement on how rich countries can cough up the funds to support poor countries in the face of climate change.

It’s a far-from-perfect arrangement, with many parties still deeply unsatisfied but some hopeful that the deal will be a step in the right direction. World Resources Institute President and CEO Ani Dasgupta called it “an important down payment toward a safer, more equitable future,” but added that the poorest and most vulnerable nations are “rightfully disappointed that wealthier countries didn’t put more money on the table when billions of people’s lives are at stake.” Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its daily flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai:

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

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

Special schedule for Loy Krathong holiday (Nov 15): departure from Hua Hin 2pm, arrival in Chiang Mai 3:15pm

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
Uncategorized

Wednesday’s news-May 22

2 Comments

Today’s news: Rain brings end to water issues/Thailand Officially Enters Rainy Season/Preparing for both drought and floods/1% fee for credit card postponed/Schools told to be ready for Covid/2 passengers Die on Singapore Airlines/Singapore Airlines lands in Singapore/No more coups/Curcumin Effective Treatment for Dyspepsia/Durian-Flavored Kit Kats/Economy: PM to address economic woes/Songkhla wants casino/Securing Thailand’s energy future/Sports authority readies up to 15 billion baht/Red Lobster investigates Thai Union/Thai firms not embracing AI/Chinese mining giant to acquire stake in Thai potash mines/Tourism: Campaign highlights central Thailand/Home to 5 national parks/Strategy to Support 39M Tourists/Koh Samui’s new cruise terminal/Israeli Family Declines Legal Action/Thailand Experience: 2 Days in Bangkok for Street Food/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

Rain brings end to Hua Hin water issues

The recent water supply issues that have been affecting parts of Hua Hin have now been resolved, according to Atichat Chaisri, deputy mMayor.

During a meeting of the Coordinating, Monitoring, and Inspection Committee, held on May 20, Chaisri reported that the raw water volume in the Hua Na Reservoir has increased to over 90%. Continued …

Thailand Officially Enters Rainy Season

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has announced that the rainy season officially began on Monday across the country. This year, meteorologists predict substantial rainfall due to the transition from El Niño to La Niña, bringing with it the potential for heavy downpours, flash floods, and mudslides.

Director-general of the Meteorological Department Kornravee Sitthichivapak stated that the cumulative conditions — over 60% of upper Thailand receiving continuous heavy rain for at least three days, southwesterly winds at 1.5 km altitude carrying Andaman Sea moisture, and easterly winds at 10 km altitude — have prompted the start of the rainy season. Continued …

Agriculture Ministry prepares for both drought and floods this year

The Agriculture Ministry is taking steps to deal with both drought and floods during this year’s rainy season, as the volume of rain is expected to be similar to that of last year.

Sedthakiat Krajangwongs, the ministry’s deputy permanent secretary, met the center for monitoring agricultural disasters at the ministry on Tuesday and announced the planned measures after the meeting. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

1% fee for credit card transactions abroad postponed indefinitely

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has ordered credit card providers to postpone the collection of a 1% fee for foreign currency conversion indefinitely.

The fee was to be applied when holders of credit cards issued in Thailand made transactions and ATM withdrawals in baht from merchants and online shops registered outside the country. The fee’s implementation was previously scheduled to kick off on May 1 but was later postponed for three months. Continued …

Schools told to be ready for surge in Covid infections

An expert on preventive medicine from Chulalongkorn University warned schools to raise their guard, as Covid-19 infections in Thailand may have risen to more than 18,000 people per day.

Dr. Thira Woratanarat, a lecturer at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine, said in a post on Tuesday that he believes the virus that causes Covid may now be infecting between 13,443 and 18,671 people per day. Continued …

2 passengers Die After Singapore Airlines Makes Emergency Landing in Bangkok

A second passenger has died following the emergency landing of a Singapore Airlines flight in Bangkok on Tuesday. The aircraft appears to have suffered serious turbulence over Myanmar, causing it to rapidly drop altitude. This caused chaos and pandemonium in the passenger cabin.

The second passenger passed away in a Thai hospital over an hour after being transported in a fleet of ambulances from the damaged airplane, where the body of a 73-year-old British man, another passenger, was left after the flight was safely evacuated by authorities. Continued …

Singapore Airlines relief flight with passengers and crew lands in Singapore

Passengers who were on flight SQ321 arrived at Changi Airport Terminal 2 at about 5am today, with almost all briskly escorted out of the baggage collection area by SIA staff.

There were hugs and some tears as they reunited with worried family members and loved ones, and airport staff or personnel wearing Singapore Airline’s vests ushered them to the arrival pick-up point, bus bay or T2 car park. Continued …

No more coups, says Pheu Thai on 10th anniversary of 2014 putsch

Pheu Thai Party released a statement denouncing the coup staged by Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha 10 years ago and vowed to enact a law that would block any chance of a new coup.

“Ten years have passed since the May 22, 2014 coup, so cease the coup cycle with a people’s charter,” the Pheu Thai statement said on Tuesday. It added that such takeovers were illegal acts that destroyed democracy and caused the country to regress. Continued … 

Curcumin as Effective Treatment for Dyspepsia as Modern Antacids

Many people may have experienced bloating, pain, tightness, nausea, and heartburn from dyspepsia, which is very common nowadays. The symptoms often come and go and interrupt daily life, especially among white-collar workers who have to sit at their desks all day long, and who have poor eating habits and eat rich and spicy food.

For treatment, in addition to adjusting lifestyle and habits, people with dyspepsia must take antacids continuously to relieve the symptoms. As a result, many Thai consumers turn to herbs such as “curcumin” (the active ingredient in turmeric) instead of modern antacids. Continued …

Durian-Flavored Kit Kats May Be Coming to Thailand

In a constant bid for attention, brands of every ilk have tried to wow the world with all sorts of crazy flavors and products. Whether it’s Oreo slowly attempting to release every flavor that could possibly be packed into a cookie or Burger King’s recent flare for bizarre food mashups, making a new item head-turning suddenly seems at least as important as making it something that people actually want to eat.

Add Kit Kat to the list of brands jumping on the bandwagon of eye-popping food ideas. In Thailand, the candy bar makers are looking to combine the sweet chocolaty taste of Kit Kats with the world’s most pungent fruit, the durian. Continued …

PM Srettha scrambles to address economic woes

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has called an urgent meeting with his economic ministers next Monday in a bid to tackle Thailand’s sluggish economic growth. This move comes after a dismal first-quarter GDP report, which has sent shockwaves through the government and the public alike.

In an online post last night, the Thai prime minister announced that he will chair an unofficial meeting of economic ministers next Monday upon his return to Bangkok. This emergency session was prompted by the National Economic and Development Council’s (NESDC) report that the economy grew by only 1.5% year-on-year in the first quarter. Continued … 

Songkhla operators push for legal casino near the border

Tourism operators in Songkhla have called on the government to consider building an entertainment complex with a legal casino in their province to address sluggish tourism in border areas and avoid over-dependence on Malaysian tourists.

As the government studies an integrated entertainment complex development project, Songchai Mungprasithichai, president of the Songkhla Tourism Promotion Assn., said as the main entry point in the south, Ban Dan Nok and the area around Sadao checkpoint in Songkhla has the potential to attract tourists interested in gambling. Continued …

Securing Thailand’s energy future

Since the 2021 military coup in Myanmar, foreign governments – in particular the European Union and the United States – have issued travel bans and frozen the financial assets of corporate entities and individuals involved with the military regime.

The most recent U.S. financial sanction on the Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE), a major source of foreign currency revenue for the military government, which took effect in November 2023, is a potential risk to Thailand as it is reliant on gas from Myanmar for electricity generation. Continued …

Sports authority readies up to 15 billion baht for two mega projects

The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) on Tuesday unveiled plans for two mega projects: Upgrading the 50,000-seat Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok into a “smart stadium”, and building a new sports complex in Chon Buri province to serve as the new national stadium.

SAT Gov. Kongsak Yodmanee said the overhaul of Rajamangala is estimated to cost up to 5 billion baht and involves upgrading the security system and smart facilities within the arena in Bangkok’s Hua Mak area. Continued …

Red Lobster investigates Thai Union, potential cause of bankruptcy filing

Red Lobster, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Florida on Sunday night, is investigating the role its majority owner Thai Union played in the restaurant chain’s “endless shrimp” promotion that caused $11 million in losses, court documents showed.

Red Lobster said the debacle was part of a pattern of mismanagement by the global seafood company that owns most of its equity and supplies shrimp to its restaurants. Continued …

Thai firms not embracing AI to enhance business, losing out benefits

Although Thailand ranked nearly top among 21 nations surveyed recently where “excitement” about artificial intelligence (AI) was rife, the adoption of the game-changing technology, especially among companies in the country, is lackluster.

A recent study by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has found that consumers in emerging markets, including Thailand, are generally among those who are particularly open to and excited about AI, particularly generative AI (GenAI), indicating a higher likelihood of consumers adopting AI more in their daily lives. Continued …

Chinese mining giant in deal to acquire 49% stake in Thai potash mines

After significant delays, the government is pushing forward with the Potash Mining Project in Thailand’s northeastern region. In the latest development, Italian-Thai Development PCL (ITD), which holds a 90% share in Asia Pacific Potash Corp., is understood to be negotiating with a Chinese company to sell shares in its project.

Asia Pacific Potash Corp. was granted mining licenses for underground potash mining in Udon Thani province on Sept. 23, 2022, by the Department of Primary Industries and Mines (DPIM). The company received licenses for four plots totaling 25,446 rai, with a validity period of 25 years. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Agency campaign highlights central Thailand attractions

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is preparing to promote the central region, with flights connecting to the south and the northeast, targeting tourism revenue for the region of 465 billion baht this year.

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said following a mobile cabinet meeting in Phetchaburi province, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin ordered the agency to promote tourism in four cities – Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi and Phetchaburi – emphasizing connections in areas adjacent to central provinces, as well as cross-regional tourism. Continued …

Huai Yang Waterfall National Park

Prachuap Khiri Khan is home to 5 national parks

Did you know the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan is home to five of Thailand’s national parks? And they are all within easy reach of Hua Hin.

This offers residents and visitors alike an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature in some of the country’s most spectacular settings. Continued …

Thai Authority Unveils Strategy to Support 39M Tourists by 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to increase tourism revenue to 3.5 trillion baht in 2024, targeting 39 million international tourists. To achieve this, the TAT is seeking an increased budget for collaborations with airlines, new flight paths, and streamlined tourist influx.

This “Airline Focus strategy” is vital in a post-Covid-19 era to revive Thailand’s tourism industry. TAT’s Deputy Gov. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot stressed the importance of extra funding for joint ventures with airlines and stakeholders. Continued …

Koh Samui’s new cruise terminal project anchors big investors

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced that Koh Samui’s new cruise terminal project has drawn substantial interest from investors both locally and internationally.

The Ministry of Transport plans to review the outcomes of a feasibility study into the project’s public-private partnership (PPP) investment model before submitting it to the cabinet for approval. Manaporn provided an update on the project’s progress, emphasizing the involvement of the Marine Department in conducting the study and analysis report. Continued …

Israeli Family Declines Legal Action After Young Daughter’s Fatal Fall in Phuket

The parents of a five-year-old Israeli girl who died after falling from a tuk-tuk taxi have decided not to pursue legal action against the driver.

Lt. Col. Eakkachai Siri of the Phuket Tourist Police clarified that after reviewing CCTV footage, it was confirmed that no vehicle from behind was involved in the incident. Continued …

2 Days in Bangkok for Street Food Lovers

When you think of Bangkok, you think of street food. The Thai capital is one of the best places to eat on earth, full stop. But its culinary star shines brightest at shophouse restaurants and street stalls.

Make the most of the Big Mango with our two-day itinerary, introducing you to MICHELIN Guide restaurants and hotels that make it easy to venture out – and stumble back satisfied, sometimes without breaking a sweat. 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
cha am, chiang mai, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-May 3

Today’s news: Drought Strains Water Supply in Hua Hin/Rain forecast for Hua Hin/Khai Sam Roi Yat/Summer storms likely from Friday/Severe drought hits Uthai Thani/Heat-struck Thai village/Southeast Asia ‘in a frying pan’/Suvarnabhumi airport bus goes electric/Cha Am’s Mrigadayavan Palace/Thailand among top 10 for sex workers/Maid ‘inherits’ Bt100 million/Gold ornament prices leap/75,000 chefs to be trained/Seizure halts wildlife smuggling/Growing drug problem grips Phuket/Economy: CPI rises 0.19%/Short-term price stability/Betong noodle vendor stays grounded/Tourism: Heat melts income/Thailand’s safety reputation/Thailand Experience: Temple’s terminal wisdom/Muay Thai Retreat/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

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Drought Strains Water Supply in Hua Hin, Conservation Measures Introduced

Hua Hin municipality is grappling with severe water scarcity due to ongoing drought conditions. The dry spell has considerably depleted water resources for both municipal and agricultural usage.

In efforts to combat the crisis, the Royal Rainmaking Operations Center has expedited cloud-seeding operations aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and replenishing reservoirs in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon provinces. Continued …

Rain forecast for Hua Hin starting Sunday

Khai Sam Roi Yat closes water attractions

The boardwalk at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, a one-kilometer-long wooden structure stretching over the Thung Sam Roi Yot freshwater marsh on the western side of the park

Continued …

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Summer storms likely from Friday to Tuesday

Summer storms are expected from Friday through Tuesday, according to the Meteorological Department.

Winds from the west, southeast and south are expected to reach extremely hot regions in the Central Plains and northern and northeastern regions of the country, it said on Thursday. Continued … 

Severe drought hits Uthai Thani, farms and buffalos at risk

Thailand’s Uthai Thani province is grappling with its most severe drough  in decades, with temperatures soaring between 40 and 43 degrees Celsius and a prolonged absence of rain. The drought has reached a critical point, affecting several districts and causing a widespread scarcity of water for both consumption and agricultural use.

The situation has escalated to the point where it is now severely impacting livestock, particularly cattle and buffalo, which are struggling with the lack of grass for grazing and water sources drying up rapidly. Continued …

Heat-struck Thai village hoists cartoon cat in desperate bid for rain

As millions across Southeast Asia suffer a blistering heatwave that is melting railway tracks, a Thai village resorted to an unusual method to seek rain: parading a Japanese cartoon cat.

Video 

In the kingdom’s central Nakhon Sawan province – which has been without rain for months – villagers in Phayuha Khiri District hoisted Japanese manga cat Doraemon to break the drought. Continued …

Southeast Asia ‘in a frying pan’ as extreme heat ‘rewrites climatic history’

Inside the small classroom, 50 teenagers are struggling to keep cool. One of the two ceiling fans is broken, and the free-standing alternatives reach only a handful of the students.

“Imagine all 50 people sharing those fans,” says Heart Coña, a grade 11 pupil in General Santos City, on the southern tip of the Philippines, where a punishing heatwave has driven temperatures above 40 degrees. Continued …

Suvarnabhumi airport bus goes electric

Rung Reuang Coach Co. is set to introduce new electric buses for its routes between Hua Hin and Suvarnabhumi Airport.

In an environmentally friendly move, the firm will transition to electric buses later this year to minimize emissions and align with global sustainability trends. Continued …

Cha Am’s Mrigadayavan Palace to open to public May 23

Closed since 2021, the royals’ summer place has been refurbished and is once again welcoming visitors – for a fee. The palace will be open to the public from 9am-5pm, Friday-Sunday. Adults, foreign or Thai, pay a 90-baht entry fee.

Thailand among top 10 countries with highest number of sex workers

The International Union of Sex Workers (IUSW) has revealed that Thailand is home to 250,000 sex workers, one of the highest numbers worldwide. Despite this, the profession remains illegal in the country and workers are lacking basic employment rights.

In a recent report titled ‘Sex Worker Statistics by Country, Gender’, the IUSW provided a breakdown of the worldwide sex industry. The findings suggest there are over 50 million sex workers globally, with 41.6 million female and 10.4 million male. They predict this number will rise over time due to the increasing options for offering sexual services. Continued …

Maid ‘inherits’ Bt100 million in assets

A French businesswoman reportedly left about 100 million baht worth of assets to her Thai maid after she died on Koh Samui on Monday.

Catherine Delacote, 59, the landlord of five pool villas on the resort island, reportedly granted 100-million-baht worth of assets to Nutwalai Phupongta, 49, her housemaid of 17 years. Continued …

Gold ornament prices leap to 41,200 baht in surprise surge

Gold prices soared unexpectedly, prompting swift action from interested buyers, as the latest figures from the Gold Traders Assn. (GTA) showed a significant jump. Today, gold ornaments’ selling price broke through to 41,200 baht per baht-weight, an increase of 350 baht from the previous day’s closing price.

The surge in gold prices is not just an isolated economic event but reflects broader market trends and investor behavio r. Gold, often seen as a safe haven during times of uncertainty, has experienced a spike that has taken both investors and analysts by surprise. Continued …

75,000 chefs to be trained

The “One Village, One Thai Food Chief” initiative will kick off in June and is expected to produce about 75,000 professional cooks by 2027.

Minister of Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Supamas Isarabhakdi unveiled details of the ministry’s plan for the project following an April 12 discussion between Food Industry Steering Committee Chairman Chumpol Jangprai, ministry executives and officials from culinary institutes. Continued …

Seizure halts wildlife smuggling operation

Police arrested six suspects with more than 1,000 radiated tortoises and lemurs in the southern province of Chumphon. The seized animals were destined for Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan.

Police Maj. Gen. Wacharin Pusit, commander of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, said on Thursday that four men and two women were arrested with six pickup trucks carrying 1,076 radiated tortoises and 48 lemurs at a hotel in tambon Khun Krathing of Muang district, Chumphon, at 2am on Wednesday. Continued …

Growing drug problem grips Phuket as arrests increase by 6.21%

Phuket, an island mainly known for its tourism, is grappling with an escalating drug problem, according to the Phuket Provincial Narcotics Prevention and Suppression Center committee. The drug issue has seen a 6.21% increase between October last year and March this year, with 1,335 arrests made in 78 drug-related cases, excluding kratom and marijuana.

The report, presented during a recent meeting at the Phuket Provincial Hall, was attended by representatives from various anti-drug enforcement agencies, including Capt. Pongsakorn Itsombat of the Royal Thai Navy, who represented the Phuket branch of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), the political wing of the Thai military. Continued …

Thai consumer price index rises 0.19%

Thailand’s headline consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.19% in April from a year earlier, versus a 0.47% year-on-year drop the previous month, the Commerce Ministry said on Friday.

The April figure compared with a fall of 0.25% forecast in a Reuters poll. It was the first time in seven months that inflation was positive. Continued …

Industry group predicts short-term price stability

Manufacturers are expected to maintain the prices of goods in the short term following a recent hike in domestic diesel rates to avoid adding a burden to people’s cost of living, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

“Manufacturers say they need to raise goods prices, but they will try to keep them steady because they don’t want to put more pressure on the economy and people’s purchasing power,” said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the FTI. Continued …

Betong noodle vendor stays grounded as prices boil over

In the southern Thai town of Betong, Yala Province, consumers and food vendors are feeling the pinch as the prices of essential goods and ingredients creep upward. Amid this economic squeeze, one noodle vendor remains resolute in her commitment to her customers, refusing to increase prices despite soaring operational costs.

The 45-year-old woman, Lampai Langprakhon, who runs Nuch Noodle Tom Yum on Khacharit Road in Betong, is facing direct impacts from the price hikes. She notes that basic ingredients like flavoring sauce and white soy sauce have seen significant price increases. Continued …

Heat melts income of outdoor venues

Outdoor tourism attractions have been hampered by the unrelenting heat, as tourists stay indoors, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is preparing to promote early morning and evening tourism to stabilize the market.

Wuthichai Luangamornlert, chief executive of Siam Park City Group, the operator of Siam Amazing Park, said the extreme hot weather has kept people from taking part in outdoor activities, leading to 5%-10% less traffic at its water park this week. Continued …

Thailand’s safety reputation on the rise among Chinese travelers

Dragon Trail Research’s latest sentiment report for Spring 2024 has revealed a significant shift in safety perceptions regarding Thailand among Chinese travelers, following concerted efforts by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Thai government to reassure and attract visitors.

“While Southeast Asian destinations continue to attract safety fears, Thailand’s score has improved notably, with only 38 percent rating it as unsafe, down from a high of 51 percent in August 2023, and 24 percent said it was safe compared to 18 percent last year,” stated Janice Meng, market research analyst at Dragon Trail International (DTI). Continued …

Temple’s terminal wisdom: Guiding lives and lighting paths

An admirable initiative has been launched in Nakhon Ratchasima, where a temple is offering guidance to individuals with terminal illnesses, helping them lead fulfilling lives and share their wisdom with others before their time comes.

Situated in the Chok Chai district, the temple equips these individuals with the tools they need to accept their mortality and live out their remaining days peacefully, enriching the community with their unique insights. Continued …

A Muay Thai Retreat in Thailand Taught Me to Embrace My Fifties

Thwack! My knee slams into the boxing pad my coach, Win, is holding up. “Power!” Win yells. “More power!” Thwack! Thwack! Thwack! My kneecap feels like it’s about to explode. Sweat dribbles off my nose and onto the mat, little raindrops of exertion. “Harder!” he says. “Stronger! You can do it!” To think I’ve paid nearly $2,000 for two weeks of this.

I’m at Gym Bangarang in Mae Rim, Thailand, a leafy suburb about 40 minutes outside Chiang Mai. Muay Thai is a martial art that combines punching, kicking, elbowing, kneeing, clinching and foot jabs to knock your opponent silly. It is savage. It is exhausting. And I can’t wait to learn it. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news 

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

 

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

baht, bangkok, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism

Friday’s news-April 12

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Today’s news: Hua Hin water woes/Areas most affected by water rationing/Women and Songkran/Road safety concerns rise/Baht tipped to slide/Bangkok port’s move stalled/Foreigners behaving badly/Tourism: Kid-friendly Travel Guide to Hua Hin/Tourist Towns Deal With Russian Invasion/Chinese influencer’s food poisoning/Environment: Marine waste project/Thailand Experience: Culture, traditions and lots of water/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

Hua Hin water woes won’t dampen Songkran spirit

To quench concerns over water scarcity threatening the Songkran festival, Hua Hin municipality is taking swift action to ensure the festivities flow smoothly without parching tourism enthusiasm. Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul, flanked by municipal bigwigs and key officials, huddled to hash out strategies to navigate the drought as the region gears up for the traditional Thai New Year festivity.

Pranburi Dam, a vital water source for Hua Hin, is dwindling at a mere 26.5% capacity, with the adjacent Phetch Dam chipping in meagerly. Yet, Mayor Wutthikul remains bullish, crediting the confidence to countermeasures being hustled into place to offset the surge in demand from hotels, resorts, and residential haunts throughout the holiday binge. Continued …

Hua Hin areas expected to be most affected by water rationing

  • Communities along the western railway line, encompassing the Nong Kae community (notably Nong Kae Village and Ton Pho).
  • Chomsin Road’s southern segment post-railway crossing.
  • The vicinity of the golf course community.
  • Somor Prong community on the northern side, stretching from the irrigation canal Soi 1 to Kiang Natee Village or the wooden bridge, alongside the canal bank on the east, and from Hua Hin Soi 2 to irrigation canal Soi 24 on the west, inclusive of Petchkasem Road.
  • Eastward from Hua Hin Soi 1 to Hua Hin Soi 35, and west of Petchkasem Road from Hua Hin Soi 2 to Hua Hin Soi 40/1, covering the entire Bofai community. – HHT

Women and Songkran — A beautiful but unsafe place

When the water guns are filled and people don colorful floral printed shirts, you know it’s Songkran time. Also known as the water festival, Songkran takes pride of place among Thai festivals, as the mostly widely celebrated, the most famous, and undoubtedly the most entertaining.

But Songkran is not without its share of controversies. A survey by Suan Dusit Poll in March, found that 32.4% out of 4,011 Bangkok residents in the past three years had been sexually harassed; 57.8% of the sample group were touched on the face with chalk powder; and 14.2% did not join the water fights because they were afraid of being harassed sexually (or had experienced that and decided to stop going). Continued …

Road safety concerns rise as upcountry travel surges for Songkran

Amid the Songkran holiday, a surge in upcountry travel has sparked apprehension among road safety champions, who fear a rise in road mishaps outside the designated seven dangerous days of traveling.

The seven dangerous days were initiated today and will conclude on April 17, and it is during these days that the highest incidents of road accidents are expected. Assistant National Police Chief Kornchai Klayklueng revealed that the Royal Thai Police (RTP) aims to reduce road accidents by 5% during these seven days. Continued …

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Baht tipped to slide as US Fed delays rate cuts

The baht is poised to experience significant pressure, potentially reaching 37 baht per dollar next week, as a result of better-than-expected economic data from the United States, coupled with the U.S. Federal Reserve’s decision to hold off on interest rate cuts.

Opening at 36.76 baht against the greenback yesterday, the baht experienced a notable depreciation from its previous day’s closing rate of 36.38 baht. Continued …

Bangkok port’s move stalled pending government clarity

Bangkok Port’s transformation into a mixed-use development has been put on hold by the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT), as it awaits further instructions from the Transport Ministry.

The decision follows an order to relocate the port to Chon Buri, which was proposed to mitigate pollution and congestion in the city. However, it is presently unclear whether the entire port or only sections of it are to be moved. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

The baffling 27 years of Richard Burrows, aka. ‘Peter Smith’

So how did he manage to evade detection, in plain sight, during his 27 years in Phuket? “Peter Smith” was, mostly, well liked, had a close circle of friends, worked professionally in a number of jobs, all with the requisite visas and work permits required in Thailand.

How did he get a passport with the name Peter Smith? How could he keep getting renewals of a stolen passport? How did he get to Thailand in the first place? How much did close friends actually know about his dark past? Continued …

Kid-friendly Travel Guide to Hua Hin

Hua Hin remains a relatively quiet Thailand destination, offering beautiful beaches, fun night markets, and plenty of activities everyone can enjoy together. If you’re looking for a charming seaside destination that’s only a short drive from Bangkok, then Hua Hin could be an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.

From exciting family activities to delicious dining options, Hua Hin has something to offer every member of the family. Our little family recently explored Hua Hin, so here’s our travel guide so you can plan your trip. Continued …

Thailand’s Tourist Towns Deal With Their Own Russian Invasion

It’s just past 11 pm on Phuket’s neon-festooned Bangla Road and revelers are out in force, though the heady atmosphere is distinctly more Sochi than Southeast Asia. TVs overhanging the sprawling beer bars show ice skating instead of soccer; Cyrillic signage proliferates; and Russian-speaking touts dispense flyers for pole-dancing clubs exclusively featuring women from former Soviet republics.

“Russians, Ukrainian, Belorussian, Kazakhs,” says one tout in dark Ray Bans and a skin-tight Armani polo shirt. “We have them all here.” Continued …

Chinese influencer’s food poisoning sparks Thai food hygiene row

Chinese netizens criticized Thai food as “unclean” after a Chinese influencer suffered food poisoning after eating at a night market in Thailand and issued a warning to his followers on Weibo.

The Chinese food blogger, Liu Yu Xin, also known as Jason, posted a video of himself enjoying food at a night market in Thailand on his Weibo account. Most of the food he tried was made of raw ingredients like marinated raw crabs, raw shrimps, raw squid in spicy dipping sauce, and jumping shrimp salad with little living shrimps. Continued …

Marine waste project removes more than 400,000kg of plastic from ocean

The Department of Fisheries’ efforts to eliminate plastic waste in the ocean have yielded impressive results, with more than 400,000 kilograms of waste removed from Thai waters, which can be recycled into marketable products like clothes.

The “Bring Waste to Shore – Keep the Sea Clean” initiative was launched in 2019 with the participation of local fishing communities, commercial fishing operators and private partners, department director-general Bancha Sukkaew said on Thursday. Continued …

Culture, traditions and lots and lots of water

From water fights to cultural delights, Bangkok’s Songkran celebration has it all. In the heart of the Thai capital, as the scorching sun transitions into the Aries constellation, Songkran — the Thai New Year festival — takes center stage.

Sanam Luang, a city square located in Bangkok’s heritage site, becomes the epicenter of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 from April 11 to 15, and is all set to witness cultural performances, live concerts, and captivating Songkran parades, drawing both locals and tourists into the heart of Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry. 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