Tag Archives: Khao Yai elephants

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Tuesday’s news-Sept 22

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  • Hua Hin waterfront public space under consideration/Hua Hin Film Club/Nene Royal set for America’s Got Talent final/China’s robot dancers to compete with Nene//Seniors urged to use traditional Chinese medicine/Young leopard in Kaeng Krachan forest/Households face rising health costs/Bangkok warns over rising water/Objectives of Thailand’s new postal law
  • THE IRAN WAR: Thailand braces for LNG supply squeeze/Fuel tax cut mulled/Supply issues driving diesel prices upward/Saudi attack dents Mideast market
  • ECONOMY: Thailand weighs cost-of-living aid/Thai PM Targets Global Investors/Thailand and US agree trade deal/Data centers to shift beyond Bangkok
  • TOURISM: Vietnam is taking Thailand’s quality tourists/Malaysia and Japan lead tourist arrivals/Phuket Old Town’s Revival
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Driver nearly hits Khao Yai elephants/Thailand named Asia’s top beach destination/Life of a Thai undertaker
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand solar panel imports surge/Dirty air is costing Thailand
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Rising tensions lead to deportation order
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Hua Hin waterfront public space under consideration, after demolition

Hua Hin municipality is considering recreation and exercise areas, parking and a wider road for the Hua Hin waterfront, where demolition is scheduled to begin on Friday.

Future development plans have not been confirmed. Public consultation and input from stakeholders would be required to determine how the area should be developed. The proposals concern the stretch of waterfront between the fishing pier and Thap Thim Shrine, where buildings currently include restaurants, cafés, accommodation and homes.Continued … 

Hua Hin Film Club to screen The Imitation Game

The Hua Hin Film Club will screen The Imitation Game at Sundance Beach Club on Sunday, Oct. 18, with actor David Charkham joining the evening as a special guest. The event begins at 6.30 pm and will include a conversation with Charkham, who appeared in the film.

Starring Benedict Cumberbatch as British mathematician and codebreaker Alan Turing, alongside Keira Knightley, The Imitation Game follows Turing and his colleagues at Bletchley Park as they work to decipher Germany’s Enigma code during the Second World War. Continued … 

Nene Royal set for America’s Got Talent final

Thai teenage performer Rattikan Amloy, better known as Nene Royal or Nong Praew, is due to compete in the final of America’s Got Talent 2026 in the United States. The 16-year-old artist from Phuket, will take to the stage at 7 am Thailand time tomorrow. The winner of this year’s competition is expected to be decided shortly afterwards.

Nene’s run on America’s Got Talent has already won the attention of judges and viewers. She made an impression with her performance of Zombie, then received a Golden Buzzer in the quarterfinal for Black Hole Sun, taking her through to the final. Continued … 

China’s robot dancers limber up for America’s Got Talent final

Chinese street dancer Wu Yufei has spent most of his 13-year career performing solo, but this year, he found some new partners – a crew of robots with sleek moves.

The 27-year-old Sichuan native, together with his fellow robot performers, has made it to the final of “America’s Got Talent” (AGT), a stage he had been hoping to reach for years. Continued … 

Seniors urged to use traditional Chinese medicine to slow cognitive decline

Older adults are being encouraged to adopt traditional Chinese medicine practices to help maintain brain health and slow the progression of cognitive decline. These recommendations include daily activities such as eating foods like black sesame seeds, goji berries, and walnuts, as well as engaging in regular exercise and social interaction.

The underlying logic for these practices is rooted in the connection between the brain and the kidneys, as traditional Chinese medicine views these organs as being closely linked. Experts suggest that managing energy flow and blood within the kidneys can help mitigate the emotional and memory changes associated with aging. In addition to dietary and physical habits, other suggested activities to stimulate the brain include learning new skills, listening to music, and practicing relaxation techniques.

Young leopard makes rare daytime appearance in Kaeng Krachan forest

A young leopard has been photographed walking along a road in Kaeng Krachan National Park, providing encouraging evidence of a healthy forest ecosystem and abundant food sources for large predators. Park officials examined the animal’s appearance, behavior and size and identified it as a young leopard that had not previously been recorded in the park’s photographic database.

The daytime appearance, particularly the animal’s apparent lack of fear around people, has drawn attention from conservation officials. They said the sighting indicates that the Kaeng Krachan forest has suitable hunting grounds and sufficient food to support the growth and reproduction of large wildlife. Continued … 

Households face rising health costs

Thailand’s healthcare spending is projected to grow by 4%-7% annually through 2030, primarily driven by an aging population, rising medical costs, and advancements in medical technology. This growth is further influenced by the increasing need for preventive healthcare and the expansion of the wellness and medical tourism sectors.

The demographic shift toward a super-aged society is a significant driver, as the proportion of people aged 60 and over is expected to reach 20% by 2030. Additionally, rising costs for pharmaceutical essentials and medical equipment, alongside the integration of high-tech medical innovations, are contributing to higher expenditures. While the government currently manages various schemes like the Universal Coverage Scheme, analysts suggest that households may eventually bear a larger share of these rising costs as state capacity faces pressure.

Bangkok warns Chao Phraya residents over rising water

Bangkok authorities have warned people living and working along both banks of the Chao Phraya River to prepare for higher water levels as releases from Chao Phraya Dam are increased.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) said the river could rise by 0.61 to 1.50 meters from its present level, with low-lying areas outside flood embankments, riverside communities and other vulnerable locations at risk of inundation. Continued … 

What are the primary objectives of Thailand’s new postal law?

The new postal law in Thailand aims to address regulatory gaps and market distortions within the country’s growing delivery and logistics sector. A primary objective is to ensure equal access to basic postal services for all citizens, preventing these essential services from falling under the control of purely commercial delivery and logistics providers.

The proposed legislation also seeks to establish a central regulatory body to function as an independent authority, fostering fair treatment among market participants and creating a more natural regulatory framework. By addressing previous imbalances in the regulatory structure, the law intends to stabilize the industry and prevent price distortions that can occur through aggressive competition. Additionally, the reform aims to align Thai standards with international practices, such as those found in Europe and Asia, to support the growth of the industry without stifling it.

Thailand braces for LNG supply squeeze as prices near Russia–Ukraine war levels

The Strait of Hormuz crisis has driven LNG prices to US$28 per million British thermal units, putting pressure on Thailand’s public and private sectors to undertake a major review of their energy strategies. The response ranges from adding “flexibility” to the energy-security framework to accelerating domestic gas exploration, advancing small modular reactor technology and restructuring major energy companies.

Poonpat Leesombatpiboon, secretary-general of the Office of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), said geopolitical instability was accelerating a global reassessment of energy policy. The definition of energy security needed to expand beyond ensuring adequate supplies to include adaptability and flexibility. Continued … 

Fuel tax cut mulled amid energy crisis

The Thai government is considering reducing fuel excise taxes to alleviate the cost-of-living pressures currently facing the public due to the ongoing energy crisis. This measure is being discussed as a way to provide relief to citizens while managing the broader energy situation.

Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas noted that any reduction in fuel excise tax must be implemented carefully to avoid creating a cycle of energy crises. Beyond immediate relief, officials are also looking at ways to stabilize the country and ensure public benefits are maximized. The government is currently assessing fiscal space for the next year to determine the most effective timing and scale for such measures.

Supply issues, attacks on refineries driving diesel prices upward

Prices at the pump for diesel and other fuels are hitting fresh highs in many countries as the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine have not only choked off crude supplies, but also damaged refineries, with the resulting capacity constraints increasingly being felt, according to analysis out of France.

French officials recently estimated that the global market is missing about 10 million barrels of crude oil per day. It is a considerable amount given the global economy had been consuming on the order of 105 million barrels per day before the Middle East conflict broke out. Continued … 

Saudi attack dents Mideast market

The recent attack near Riyadh Airport has the potential to further hamper the Middle East travel market, which is already struggling to recover from the Gulf conflict that began earlier this year. According to the Association of Thai Travel Agents, the situation is being closely monitored, as it could lead to further disruptions in flight operations.

Travel experts suggest that while the impact on the broader Middle East market may be limited, the ongoing conflict and regional instability pose significant risks. Specifically, the Houthis have targeted oil infrastructure and declared a maritime blockade, which has already impacted Saudi oil exports and maritime traffic in the Red Sea. The U.S. State Department has even advised travelers to seriously reconsider traveling to or through the region due to the potential for rapid escalation.

Thailand weighs cost-of-living aid as oil prices rise

Thailand’s government says it is assessing rising energy costs and their wider effect on household spending, transport and consumer prices before deciding on further cost-of-living measures.

Lalida Periswiwatthana, deputy government spokesperson, said yesterday that officials were closely monitoring energy prices and their impact on the public. Any response, she said, must consider energy costs, freight charges, retail prices, purchasing power and the country’s fiscal position together. Continued … 

Thai PM Targets Global Investors in US Growth Push

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has embarked on a high-stakes investment mission to New York, positioning Thailand as an emerging hub for next-generation technology and global capital as he attends the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81).

Leading a high-level delegation alongside Thai financial leaders, the prime minister aims to place Thailand firmly on the global investment radar, driving bilateral talks with top US financial institutions and multinational technology firms. Continued … 

What key elements did Thailand and the US agree on in their trade deal?

Thailand and the United States have reached a substantive agreement on the primary elements of their Agreement on Reciprocal Trade. While the core framework is established, negotiations continue regarding technical details and specific tariff treatments for Thai exports.

The framework covers digital trade, services, investment, and market access, with Thailand specifically seeking to secure tariff-rate conditions comparable to those of its regional competitors. Recent discussions have focused on addressing US concerns regarding structural excess production capacity and labor practices, while Thailand aims to establish a more durable market position for its exporters. Additionally, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has sought to finalize remaining issues, including specific tariff rates, through high-level discussions with US officials.

Larger data centers set to shift beyond Bangkok

Larger data center projects are shifting away from Bangkok primarily due to infrastructure constraints and increasingly strict regulatory requirements. Companies are seeking locations outside the capital that can offer more reliable access to land and water, as well as sufficient electricity capacity to support massive operations.

Beyond resource availability, the relocation is driven by a need for greater certainty regarding urban planning and environmental safety. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has recently halted approvals for new large-scale projects while it works to revise regulations, as existing laws often fail to adequately define data centers or subject them to necessary city-planning and factory rules. Furthermore, developers are facing heightened scrutiny and potential restrictions in urban areas due to concerns over high electricity demand, water consumption, and the environmental impact of fuel storage for emergency generators.

Vietnam is taking Thailand’s quality tourists in huge numbers

Vietnam is mounting its biggest challenge yet to Thailand’s tourism crown, as a once-massive 22-million visitor gap collapses. Vietnam is surging beyond pre-Covid records while Thailand remains millions below its 2019 peak.

Crucially, Vietnam is beating Thailand on the value that once powered its tourism machine: price. It is also easing visas, expanding airports and attracting soaring Western arrivals. Thailand, meanwhile, is tightening immigration, ramping up security and struggling to recover its huge Chinese market. Almost 30,000 foreigners were refused entry during this year’s first five months. Through August, Vietnam’s arrivals surged 14.4% while Thailand’s fell 3.1%. Continued … 

Malaysia and Japan drive rise in Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul reported the latest tourism figures yesterday. Thailand welcomed 22,183,678 foreign tourists from Jan. 1 to Sept. 19, down 3.7% from the same period a year earlier, with foreign tourism revenue reaching 1.082821 trillion baht.

The five largest source markets were: China: 3,728,585 tourists; Malaysia: 2,831,654 tourists; India: 1,640,441 tourists; Russia: 1,230,256 tourists; and South Korea: 811,246 tourists. Continued … 

A Look at Phuket Old Town’s Revival and Rising Challenges

The revival of Phuket Old Town has brought its colorful heritage back into the spotlight, but success comes with its own challenges. As tourism, rising rents and commercialization reshape the historic district, its long-standing community is grappling with what should be preserved – and what can change.

Phuket Old Town, the island’s historic heart, is known for its pastel-colored Sino-Portuguese shophouses and a distinctive blend of cultures that reflects Phuket’s trading history. While the area’s early development dates back centuries, it was the 19th- century tin-mining boom that transformed Phuket into a prosperous regional trading hub, attracting Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European merchants and workers seeking opportunities. Continued … 

Breakfast at the Anantasila Beach Restaurant

What a way to start a day! Watching the sun rise over the Gulf of Thailand, cool ocean breezes, with a gentle sea lapping at the white sand beach. And behind you is breakfast, served by the attentive staff of the Anantasila Beach Reataurant in Khao Takiab. Hendrik van den Heuvel is the executive food and beverage manager.

Expat News had the opportunity recently to sample the restaurant’s morning buffet, and was not disappointed. So much delicious food to choose from – made-to-order eggs (we tried the salmon omelette), breads and Danish made fresh on site, fruits of all kinds, and a variety of Thai dishes.

And don’t forget the coffee, made fresh from beans in a variety of styles. We tried the Americano and Caffe Latte, among the many options offered.

Hendrik van den Heuvel is the executive food and beverage manager, checks out the eggs to order station

The menu is changed regularly, but on our visit waiting for hungry diners was fish rice soup (a Thai breakfast staple), Jasmine and white rice, egg Thai fried rice, stir-fried noodles with chicken, bell pepper with beef, pork red curry, baked beans, grilled tomato, hash browns, sausages, cold cuts, cheese, juices, and waffles with real maple syrup.

The beach bar and restaurant veranda give access to beautiful, unobstructed views of the sea and Khao Takiab shoreline. The restaurant’s tree-canopied outdoor dining area offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience.

The restaurant is open seven days a week from 7 am-11 pm. and welcomes all residents and non-residents. For reservation, Tel : +66 32 527 638; Email : fb@anantasila.com; Web.

Warning issued after driver nearly hits Khao Yai elephants

The Thai Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TSPCA) has warned of severe penalties for people who harm or threaten wildlife following an incident in which a retired government official allegedly drove at high speed and nearly hit two wild elephants in Khao Yai National Park.

The case involves “Ngathong,” a bull elephant, and his calf “Ton Kla.” According to the TSPCA, the retired official drove into close proximity to the elephants as they were crossing a road inside Khao Yai National Park. The incident startled the calf, causing it to run away, while the vehicle nearly collided with Ngathong. Tourists in the area were also forced to jump out of the way. Continued … 

Thailand named Asia’s top beach destination for 2026

Thailand has been ranked Asia’s leading beach travel destination for 2026 and fifth in the world by Travel And Tour World (TTW). The country placed above the Philippines, Maldives, Indonesia and India in TTW’s Asian rankings, while Greece took the top global position. Australia, Mexico and Spain filled second to fourth places, respectively.

TTW said leading beach destinations were not defined solely by attractive coastlines. Its assessment also reflected the overall travel experience, combining natural scenery, vibrant local culture, marine biodiversity, welcoming hospitality and responsible tourism. Continued … 

Life of a Thai undertaker

Meet 39-year-old undertaker Aphichat Sukain, who oversees cremations and performs traditional rituals for the dead at a Buddhist temple in Bangkok. He discusses the practical responsibilities, spiritual beliefs and ceremonies that guide each person’s final journey. Video … 

Thailand solar panel imports surge ahead of household scheme

Thailand’s solar panel imports jumped 88.7% year-on-year to US$426.7 million, around 14.93 billion baht, during the first seven months of 2026, with China accounting for almost the entire market. According to figures from the Ministry of Commerce and Customs Department, the January to July increase marked a sharp recovery after import values contracted during both 2024 and 2025.

The increase comes as the government prepares a major household solar program and amid concerns over higher electricity costs. Energy-price pressures linked to the conflict in the Middle East have also encouraged households and businesses to consider rooftop systems as a way to reduce longer-term power bills. Continued … 

Dirty air is costing Thailand almost 4% of GDP a year

Ask an economist to put a price on Bangkok’s haze, and the number is startling: US$45.3 billion a year, or 3.9% of Thailand’s GDP, according to a World Bank assessment that ranks the country 20th worst out of 180 for the health costs of PM2.5 pollution — the second-heaviest burden in Southeast Asia after Indonesia.

That figure is not a forecast or a worst case. It is roughly what dirty air is already taking out of the Thai economy every single year, largely unremarked, while a law designed to bring it down sits stalled in Parliament. Continued … 

Rising tensions lead to deportation order for unruly tourists

This video investigates the rising tensions between local Thai communities and foreign visitors, exploring how cultural friction, property disputes, and regulatory crackdowns are testing Thailand’s limits. Video … 

  • Hong Kong drug-packer arrested with 350 kilograms of ‘ice’ in Bangkok – Continued … 

Major TV networks suspend White House pool coverage after Trump ban

Major television networks suspended their White House pool coverage and will no longer send camera crews to cover President Donald Trump’s pool events, standing in solidarity with CNN after Trump denied White House access to reporters for three outlets. The move from the five networks that make up the television pool ‒ ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox News, in addition to CNN ‒ means a broadcast television feed that is distributed widely for media won’t be carried for most of Trump’s events. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

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

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Tuesday’s news-Nov 5

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Hua Hin adds water pumps/Health concerns for expats/Nations Most at Risk from Severe Flooding/Events to mark Loy Krathong Festival/Thailand Leads in Road Fatalities/Crackdown on Foreign Criminals/Car Plunges from Condominium Parking Lot/Thailand To Send 800 Workers to Israel/Department Seeks Leads in Killing of Wild Elephant/Economy: Keen on expanding into China/Thai Rice Exports Surge/Thailand Could Add Millions of Jobs/AIS reports Q3 revenue/Binance targets Thailand/Tourism: European airlines’ ‘green tax’.Tourism campaign for northern provinces/Tourists flock to Doi Inthanon/Trang Airport terminal to open by late 2025/Tour Bus Collides with Truck/Thailand Experience: 5 Beaches Near Bangkok/Tourists swarm Khao Yai/Thailand’s nature trail experiences/18 of the best restaurants in Thailand/Korat welcomes visitors to Lam Chae Dam/Climate Thailand: Thailand’s Renewable Energy Landscape/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 adds water pumps for flood control

Continued …

Common health concerns for expats in Thailand

Moving to Thailand as an expat offers adventure, vibrant culture, and an excellent lifestyle, but it also brings some health challenges that might not be familiar to you.

From tropical diseases to climate-related conditions, understanding common health concerns and knowing how to prevent them can make all the difference for your well-being. Here’s what you should know about staying healthy in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand Among Top 4 Nations Most at Risk from Severe Flooding

With unusual weather patterns taking hold globally, Thailand stands prominently among nations most threatened by flooding in 2024. The World Bank’s recent insights highlight that around 1.47 billion individuals worldwide are at heightened risk from river floods, torrential rains, and coastal erosion. This grim statistic puts an overwhelming 89% of those at risk in lower- and middle-income regions, especially South and East Asia.

Of these affected, approximately 225 million people reside in India and 329 million in China, underscoring the vulnerability of the Asian region. Southeast Asia’s geography — a mix of tropical storms, vast monsoon rains, and inadequate flood defenses — remains particularly susceptible. Continued …

Array of events nationwide to mark Loy Krathong Festival

The enchanting Loy Krathong Festival, a significant cultural event in Thailand, is set to captivate visitors and locals alike on Nov. 15.

This year, the festival promises a dazzling array of celebrations across the country, showcasing the rich traditions and vibrant spirit of Thai culture. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Thailand Leads Southeast Asia in Road Fatalities

Southeast Asia is the second most-affected region in the world when it comes to road accidents, after Africa, and Thailand “tragically leads in this statistics”, said UN Secretary General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety Jean Todt on Monday in Bangkok.

Speaking at a seminar on road safety in Southeast Asia, co-organized by the Embassy of France and UN ESCAP, Todt said 40% of road accidents in Southeast Asia involved motorcycles and riders not wearing safety helmets. Continued …

Thai Police Chief Launches Crackdown on Foreign Criminals

Thailand’s national police chief, Gen. Kittirat Panpet, has introduced a 15-point strategy to crack down on foreign criminals, combat cross-border crime, and enhance public safety.

Announced yesterday, the plan emphasizes stricter immigration control, intensified surveillance of criminal networks involving foreigners, and increased cooperation with border and immigration authorities to prevent illegal entry. Continued …

Car Plunges from Condominium Parking Lot in Bangkok, Driver OK

A car crashed through a parking lot wall and plunged from a condominium in the Pinklao area of Bangkok yesterday morning, startling residents, but only causing minor injuries to the driver. The incident prompted an immediate response from local rescue services.

Witnesses recounted seeing the vehicle suddenly accelerate and smash through the parking lot barrier wall on the third floor, before plummeting down to the ground below. Photos shared by residents of the condominium show the vehicle’s wreckage lying on its roof, surrounded by debris from the broken wall. Continued …

Thailand To Send 800 Workers to Israel Amid Conflict Risks

Thailand’s Department of Employment has announced plans to send 800 workers to Israel this month, despite the escalating conflict in the region. This decision comes as Thai interest in working opportunities in Israel remains high, according to DoE chief Somchai Morakotsriwan, speaking on Monday.

Somchai assured that these workers would be deployed only to safe areas, underscoring that employment agencies are prohibited from sending Thai workers to conflict zones in northern Israel. Continued … 

Department of National Parks Seeks Leads in Trap Killing of Wild Elephant

The director-general of Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has ordered an investigation into a trap that killed a wild elephant in Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary, Loei Province. Meanwhile, the head of Protected Area Regional Office 8 has filed a police report at Phu Ruea Police Station, urging swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Authorities yesterday discovered the body of a tuskless adult male wild elephant, known as a “Si Dor,” in the Nam Rin stream in Ban Song Khon, Pla Ba subdistrict, Phu Ruea district. The elephant’s trunk was tightly ensnared by a spring-loaded animal trap, attached to bamboo branches and rocks in the stream. Continued …

Thai vendors keen on expanding into China

Creating a corporate identity, testing products among Chinese consumers and utilizing online marketing channels on e-marketplaces are among the crucial factors for expanding Thai products into the Chinese market, according to the Thai E-Commerce Assn.

Thai exporters should also capitalize on live commerce and establish a cross-border e-commerce channel with China fulfillment centers, the association says. Continued …

Thai Rice Exports Surge 22% in First 9 Months

Thailand exported 7,448,941 tons of rice worth 172.019 billion baht in the first nine months of 2024 (January-September), an increase of 22% in volume and 45.8% in value compared to the same period in 2023, according to Charoen Laothamatas, president of the Rice Exporters Association of Thailand.

He stated that white rice led exports with 4,702,455 tons (up 42%), followed by jasmine rice with 1,233,108 tons (up 9%), parboiled rice with 814,791 tons (down 28.2%), Thai fragrant rice with 487,587 tons (up 42.5%) and glutinous rice with 211,000 tons (up 15.7%). Continued …

Thailand Could Add Millions of Jobs, Billions in Revenue with 50% Plant-Based Shift

As Southeast Asia’s leading protein producer and the only country in the region that exports more protein than it imports, Thailand has the experience and expertise to become a global hub of sustainable proteins.

The benefits will be enormous if the country realizes its potential and replaces half of its meat and seafood production with plant-based proteins by 2050: it could create more than a million additional jobs, add billions of dollars of economic value to its economy, and cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by millions of tons per year. Continued …

AIS reports Bt52.2 billion in Q3 revenue

Advanced Info Service (AIS) posted total revenue of 52.2 billion baht and a net profit of around 8.7 billion baht in the third quarter of this year.

The growth of AIS’s profit and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) were driven by more efficient cost management, a decrease in capital expenditure for network expansion, reduced competition of the market, especially in mobile services, along with a boost from the tourism sector, according to Pisut Ngamvijitvong, senior vice president of the securities analysis department at Kasikorn Securities (KS). Continued …

Binance targets Thailand as key market for crypto expansion

Thailand is one of Binance’s key strategic markets, as the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange aims to reach the one-billion-user mark, amid a push to turn crypto into a mainstream currency, executives say.

Chief marketing officer Rachel Conlan said Thailand is among the top 20 markets out of the more than 100 that Binance operates in, with Thai penetration twice the global rate. Continued …

European airlines’ ‘green tax’ unlikely to impact Thai tourism

The environmental charge on airfares adopted by many airlines in Europe should not affect long-haul markets, as passengers are still willing to pay for necessary adjustments.

In June, European carrier Lufthansa Group announced the addition of an environmental charge of between €1-72 (36-2,647 baht) on departures from EU member states, Switzerland, Norway and the UK, effective as of Jan. 1, 2025. The hike in airfares is meant to cover carbon reduction efforts in the EU. Continued …

TAT launches tourism campaign for northern provinces

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has kicked off a “Nuea … Phrom Tiew” (Get Ready for Northern Tourism) campaign in a bid to stimulate tourism in 17 northern provinces in the high tourism season in the wake of heavy flooding.

Chiang Mai Deputy Gov. Weerapong Ritrod said on Sunday that this year’s flooding was considered the severest in 50 years, as it impacted several industries in the province, including tourism. He said officials and locals had restored the economic areas after the floodwater receded. Now, Chiang Mai is ready to welcome Thai and foreign tourists in the high tourism season, he said. Continued …

Tourists flock to Doi Inthanon as mercury plunges to record low

In a frosty turn of events, Thailand’s towering titan, Doi Inthanon, is giving visitors the cold shoulder, with temperatures diving to a nippy 7°C, the chilliest dawn of the season so far. This icy spectacle has proven irresistibly cool for tourists, drawing in a crowd eager to lap up the brisk mountain vibes.

On Sunday, the mountain was a hub of activity, welcoming 4,088 cold-chasers. Among them were 2,969 Thai visitors and 1,119 globe-trotters, all arriving in a convoy of 1,302 vehicles. Continued … 

Trang Airport terminal to open by late 2025 amid project delays

The Transport Ministry directed an expedited effort to complete the new passenger terminal at Trang Airport, aiming for its operation by the close of next year.

This directive comes from Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, following a petition from a civic group in the southern province urging the government to resume the 1.6-billion-baht project, halted by the contractor about six months ago near its completion. Continued …

Tour Bus Collides with Truck in Phrae, Injuring 45

A Bangkok-bound intercity bus carrying 47 passengers collided with a truck carrying rice on a winding section of road between Song and Ngao districts. The incident occurred this morning in the Song District, Phrae Province.

The bus lost control on a curve and clipped the trailer truck. The bus overturned onto its side and was left resting on the roadside verge after falling over the guardrails and very close to plunging into a deep wooded ravine. Continued …

Khao Takiab

5 Beaches Near Bangkok You Need To Check Out

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, is a large and most populous city known for its vibrant street life, cultural landmarks, religious sites, or historical sites, but just a short trip away lies a treasure trove of stunning beaches, which is ideal for escaping from city crowds.

Whether you’re looking for serene beaches to relax on, exciting water sports, or charming seaside towns, these five beautiful beaches near Bangkok offer a perfect combination of natural beauty and leisure activities. Continued …

Tourists swarm Khao Yai for elephant encounters

Khao Yai National Park turned into a hotspot of excitement yesterday as throngs of tourists descended to savour the cooler climes and marvel at the elephants and their natural splendours over the weekend. The bustling gates at Nern Hom and Khao Yai Shrine, nestled in the enchanting provinces of Prachinburi and Nakhon Ratchasima, welcomed eager visitors in droves.

The real show-stealers? An enchanting herd of over 25 wild elephants, calves in tow, casually strolled and grazed at the iconic Thung Kwai. Cameras clicked and jaws dropped as these gentle giants put on a spectacular show, leaving one tourist starstruck: “Seeing the elephants up close was an experience I’ll never forget.” Continued …

Thailand promotes nature trail experiences

As temperatures cool with the onset of the cold season, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) has unveiled over 300 nature trails across Thailand, welcoming adventure enthusiasts to explore the country’s diverse landscapes.

Atthaphon Charoenchansa, DNP director-general, highlighted that these paths collectively span over 900 kilometers, with distances varying from brief 100-meter jaunts to lengthy 64-kilometer treks. Continued … 

18 of the best restaurants in Thailand to dine at

Boasting a rich food culture, Thailand makes for an easy getaway, no matter whether you’re more drawn to its luscious islands, or the buzzing capital of Bangkok. All over the country, from the big smoke to the teeny towns and provinces further afield, there’s good food to be found.

To help guide you on your way, we’ve curated a list of the best restaurants in Thailand. From Michelin-starred sensations to street food stalls worth waiting in line for, we’ve found 18 of the best restaurants scattered right across the Asian nation. Continued …

Korat welcomes visitors to Lam Chae Dam

Travelers seeking a serene escape are invited to witness the breathtaking beauty of Lam Chae Dam, located in Kraburi district, Nakhon Ratchasima province. As winter approaches, the dam’s atmosphere transforms into a cool and inviting setting, perfect for sightseeing and photography. One of the most captivating sights at the dam is the stunning pink sky that often graces the evening horizon. As the sun begins to set, the sky is painted with hues of pink and gold, creating a truly magical spectacle. (The Nation)

Navigating Thailand’s Renewable Energy Landscape

Renewable energy is a pivotal force in the global energy transition, particularly in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, and Thailand has a valuable role to play.

Despite starting from a low base, renewable energy is experiencing robust growth in APAC, with installed generation capacity increasing at an average compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9%. By 2030, renewable energy is expected to account for 30% to 50% of the power generation mix across most APAC markets. 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