Tag Archives: koh phangan

cha am, climate change, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-March 25

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Today’s news: Hot weather warning/Government must form PM2.5 panel/Booze battle/Thais Among Top Target/10,600+ complaints about taxis/Big Bike Collision/Surge in monkey attacks/Monkey attacks on Koh Chang/Lopburi monkeys relocating/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Challenges for manufacturing/Thai-China high-speed rail/Korat seeks commercial flights/Tourism: Cha Am park wins award/Songkran is around the corner/Surge in illegal foreign workers/Casinos will bring revenue/Thailand elevates festivals/More people will travel upcountry/Koh Phangan for Full Moon Party/Pattaya Hotels Surge/Environment: Surat Thani’s blue crab project/Most Impacted By Weather Perils/Cooperation on electric taxis/Bumpy road for EV China’s place/Thailand Experience: Thailand’s Matcha culture/Amazing Balloon Fest/International news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Hua Hin train schedule/Market Village bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Hot weather warning issued for Thailand

The Thailand Meteorological Department has warned of hot weather throughout Thailand today, with temperatures rising to 39C in Bangkok and 40C elsewhere in the central region and the north.

It also forecasts a 20% chance of thunderstorms and advises people to take care of their health in hot weather conditions. Thunderstorms may occur in the lower northeast, central region, and east regions due to moisture-laden winds from the Gulf of Thailand and South China Sea. Continued …

Government must form PM2.5 panel: TDRI

A national committee to devise a policy on battling the PM2.5 problem, and an agency to manage the smog are needed to address the nation’s air pollution, according to the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).

The TDRI published an academic article addressing the air pollution problem in Bangkok and the northern region on its website on Thursday. Continued …

Booze battle: Thailand still missing the middle path in alcohol control

No less than four draft laws on alcohol control will soon go before Parliament, but none appear to contain a middle path that will satisfy everyone.

Two drafts, one proposed by the Public Health Ministry’s Disease Control Department (DCD) and the other by an anti-alcohol group, push for strict control – apparently out of concern about health and other impacts of drinking. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Thais Among Top Target Of Cyber Criminals In Asia

The Bank of Thailand revealed that Thais are among cyber criminals favorite targets in Asia, and as these scammers continuously come up with new tactics it led to a total of 56,746 online fraud cases in January this year, with 3.981 billion baht being stolen.

Pinyo Tripetcharaporn, director of the central bank’s Overall Risk Management Department, said that statistics show of the total cyber fraud cases in January, 46% involved being deceived in making online purchases, followed by 10% being tricked to borrow money and 7% duped into transferring money. Continued …

Transport ministry investigating 10,600+ complaints about taxis

Thailand’s Transport Ministry says it’s considering new measures to address a raft of complaints about taxis after a huge number of complaints in a 6-month period.

According to a report, the ministry has received over 10,600 complaints from taxi passengers. In response, officials say they plan to introduce measures to improve taxi services to ensure they are “convenient, safe, and reasonably priced”. Continued …

Big Bike Collision in Phuket Claims Three Lives

Yesterday, Chalong police officers received an accident report of a big bike colliding with a motorbike on Wiset Road, Mueang Phuket, claiming three lives and one serious injury.

Phuket emergency services and police officers were dispatched to the accident scene and found a blue big bike and a white motorbike overturned on the road. Nearby, two bodies of foreigners and one Thai body were on the road, whose names were publicly identified only as Mr. Kristofer, 36, Mr. Magnus, 52, and Mrs. Kanokkan, 44, respectively. Continued …

New compensation guidelines after surge in monkey attacks

A government committee has come up with new regulations for compensation to victims of monkey attacks in response to a spate of attacks by rogue monkeys in Lopburi. Under the new regulation, a maximum of 100,000 baht will be paid in case of death or disability.

The committee in charge of managing funds for wildlife protection convened a meeting on Friday and issued new compensation regulations, which went into effect on Saturday. Continued …

Monkey attacks keep Koh Chang park officials at bay

Koh Chang park officials are fed up with a growing number of macaques that pose a danger to local residents and tourists, as well as damaging property.

Neramit Songsagne, chief of Mu Koh Chang National Park, said on Sunday the park is mulling two plans to manage the marauding monkeys, either by sterilizing them to control their reproduction or moving them off the island to new sanctuaries on the mainland. The park is awaiting recommendations from a study by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation on the impact of the monkeys on the island, the official added. Continued …

First Lopburi monkeys relocating Monday to reduce attacks, injuries

The Parks department will today temporarily move the first group of Lopburi monkeys into a special enclosure at a Wildlife Rescue Center, before later moving them to a “monkey garden”, in order to control a population that has become increasingly aggressive while stealing food and attacking people, causing injury to several individuals.

The final destination is a “Monkey Garden” in Pho Khao Ton subdistrict of Mueang Lopburi District. Continued … 

  • 15 Foreign Riders Arrested in Patong Breaking Traffic Rules – Continued …
  • Polish yoga instructor arrested in Koh Phangan for unlicensed operations – Continued …
  • Foreigners condemned for spray-painting Phuket footpath – Continued …
  • Egyptian man damages Phuket taxi in violent outburst – Continued …

Challenges for manufacturing as Thai labor force shrinks by 3 million

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) recently warned that the manufacturing sector stands to face severe challenges now that the country’s workforce has dropped by 3 million.

According to NESDC’s long-term national development plan (2022-2037), labor shortages are expected to have an inevitable impact on Thailand’s industrial sector. The projections indicate a steady decline of more than 3 million working-age individuals every decade. Continued …

Thai-China high-speed rail set to boost ASEAN connectivity

 

Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang projected a significant enhancement in the collaboration between Thailand and China upon the conclusion of the anticipated high-speed rail project. The statement came during a seminar addressing the economic ties between the two nations and the Thai-China visa-free agreement, held by the Thai-Chinese Journalists Assn. Recently.

The ambassador emphasized that the completion of the Thai-China high-speed rail would bolster Thailand’s connectivity with Laos, China, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at large, given Thailand’s strategic location linking to various regions. Continued …

Korat seeks PM’s help to return commercial flights

Provincial agencies in Nakhon Ratchasima have lobbied Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to use the air force base as an airport to promote tourism and business in the province.

In a meeting on Sunday, representatives of the provincial state agencies sought permission from the prime minister to allow the private sector to use Wing 1 of the Royal Thai Air Force again for commercial flights, according to deputy spokeswoman Kenika Ounjit. Continued …

Cha Am park wins tourism award

Khao Nang Phanthurat National Park in Cha Am has won the “Outstanding Tourism Promotion Person of the Province” award, a recognition from the Thai Lineage Club on behalf of the nation.

This accolade was received during an event at the Teachers Council Auditorium, Ministry of Education, Bangkok, highlighting the park’s significant contributions to the promotion and sustainable development of tourism in Thailand. Continued …

Songkran – Thailand’s most famous annual festival – is around the corner

Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year and Thailand’s most famous annual festival, is coming very soon, in the middle of April. The festival this year will be an even bigger extravaganza, as the nation shows its delight in the inscription of “Songkran in Thailand” in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

As part of the celebration, a calendar of World Water Festivals will be launched nationwide in April for 21 days. It has also composed Songkran songs in Thai, English, Chinese, and French to tell visitors how joyful the festival is. Continued …

Thailand grapples with surge in illegal foreign workers in tourism

The Labor Ministry of Thailand has expressed worries over the persistent issue of foreigners being unlawfully employed within the country’s tourism sector.

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn revealed that the ministry has been vigilantly tracking the situation and has reported a steady increase in the number of illegal foreign workers. From October 2023 to February 2024, as many as 13,424 foreigners were found to be working in the country without proper legal documentation. Continued …

Casinos will bring revenue to Thailand, solve illegal gambling problem: minister

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn says that setting up legal casinos in Thailand will not only create new jobs but will also generate more revenue. He said on Saturday that by allowing entertainment complexes to include casinos, Thailand will also be able to tackle its chronic problem with illegal gambling.

Phiphat said each entertainment complex would create at least 10,000 new jobs, and if one was built in each of the country’s five major regions, up to 50,000 people could be hired. Continued …

Thailand elevates festivals as main driver for global tourist appeal

Thailand can use its unique festivals as another attraction to lure foreign tourists, the National Soft Power Strategy Committee’s secretary said recently.

Surapong Suebwonglee said festivals add to Thailand’s overall appeal, adding to its world-famous cuisine, diverse culture and tourist attractions. Admitting that previous efforts to promote Thailand’s soft powers had failed due to inadequate planning, “we now revise the management, so it generates more income,” he said. Continued …

More people will travel upcountry if roads improved, EV garages made available

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is urging the government to boost tourism in second-tier provinces by improving roads and putting up garages that can repair electric vehicles (EVs).

Somruedee Jitjong, TAT’s deputy chief for the domestic market, said the growing popularity of EVs would result in more Thais taking to the road and thereby boosting tourism. She added that the purchase and use of EVs have been rising over the past few years, and TAT is planning to launch tourism promotions for EV users next year. Continued …

Thousands of Foreign Tourists Flock to Koh Phangan for Full Moon Party

On Saturday, Surat Thani local media reported a large number of foreign tourists ferry traveling to Koh Phangan and Koh Samui to attend the full moon party yesterday on Haad Rin Beach.

Meanwhile, foreign tourists traveled to Koh Phangan and reserved hotel rooms and resorts in advance to participate in the full moon party, according to Surat Thani reporters. Continued …

Pattaya Hotels Surge in Occupancy as Songkran Approaches

Pattaya’s hotel industry is experiencing a significant surge, with some hotels seeing over 90% occupancy.

According to Wit Tantivorawong, managing director of the support division at Land and Houses Plc, Grand Center Point hotels, one of Thailand’s premier hotel brands, both Bangkok and Pattaya are experiencing a sharp increase in occupancy rates. Continued …

Surat Thani’s blue crab project

As many as 200,000 young blue crabs were released at Koh Set Island in the Chaiya district of Surat Thani province last week in a bid to preserve the marine ecosystem and food security in the Gulf of Thailand.

This preserved island under the Department of Fisheries has an abundant ecosystem that allows blue crabs and others like shrimps and shells to grow, said Jarin Choeichoeychom, chairman of an environmental preservation fishery group in Ban Phum Riang community. Continued …

Asia Pacific Tops List Of Most Impacted By Weather Perils

Climate change will be the main driver of future economic risks, with countries in the Asia Pacific region among the most vulnerable to extreme weather events, according to new analysis.

Four weather perils –– floods, tropical cyclones, winter storms and severe thunderstorms –– account for the largest share of economic losses from natural disasters globally, according to a report by the Swiss Re Institute, the research arm of global insurance firm Swiss Re. Continued …

China-Thailand cooperation on electric taxis transforming Suvarnabhumi Airport

At Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, amid the hustle and bustle of international travel, a batch of sleek, white electric taxis are painting the runway with a touch of modernity. These vehicles, produced by a leading Chinese automaker, have swiftly become an emblem of eco-friendly transportation at Thailand’s busiest airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport stands as the gateway to Thailand, welcoming over 50 million travelers annually. Recognizing the need for sustainable travel options, Airports of Thailand (AOT) has joined forces with China’s GAC Aion to introduce electric taxi services since January this year. The initiative aims not only to enhance the passenger experience but also to propel the airport toward a greener future. Continued …

Bumpy road for China’s place in Thai EV evolution

The rapid growth in electric vehicle investment in Thailand from many Chinese EV makers is, in the eyes of some industry observers, reminiscent of “zero dollar” tours.

In this tour scam, which made headlines in 2016, Chinese visitors were lured into buying cheap tour packages in Thailand, but were forced to buy unusually expensive souvenirs and services during their stay. Only Chinese tour operators and shop owners in their network rake in money, with little or no benefits for the Thai tourism industry. Continued …

Khao Tao’s weaving community featured in Thai culture promotion

King Power, a leading Thai duty-free retailer, has unveiled a new promotional initiative titled “Thainess Station, Thai Products, United for the Community.”

The campaign aligns with the government’s push to highlight Thai culture and products, engaging both the public and private sectors in a collaborative effort. The initiative aims to spotlight the variety of Thai craftsmanship, including the fabric produced by the weaving community of Khao Tao. Continued …

Thailand’s Matcha culture: From traditional ceremonies to modern cafes

For connoisseurs of Matcha seeking to immerse themselves in the burgeoning Matcha culture within Thailand, a remarkable experience awaits.

Thailand, with an emphasis on its capital, Bangkok, has risen as a premier destination for enthusiasts of this variant of green tea, offering a broad selection of venues for the enjoyment of this refined beverage. The city accommodates diverse tastes through its contemporary Matcha bars and vegan-friendly cafes. Continued …

Nakhon Phanom’s ‘Amazing Balloon Fest’ takes flight

Nakhon Phanom province in the northeast of Thailand is gearing up for its first-ever balloon fest, scheduled to be held next week.

The “Amazing Balloon Nakhon Phanom Fest 2024”, held March 29-31, will showcase giant balloons, international kites and a walking street featuring local artisans and items unique to the province. Continued …

China’s construction for Indonesia’s new capital to lead growing overseas city-building portfolio

China is positioning itself to become one of the top foreign investors in Nusantara, the planned new capital of Indonesia that is being built from scratch over the next 20 years in the middle of forests and palm tree farms. Continued …

Suspects charged in deadly concert-hall attack in Moscow

Four men accused of staging the Russia concert hall attack that killed more than 130 people appeared before a Moscow court Sunday showing signs of severe beatings as they faced formal terrorism charges. One appeared to be barely conscious during the hearing. 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

baht, bangkok, climate change, hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-June 5

  • UK crime boss living in Hua Hin finally jailed after five years on the run/
  • Hua Hin Marathon this Saturday/
  • Move Forward slams holiday booze ban/
  • Pita promises same-sex marriage at 50,000-strong Pride parade/
  • Giant centipede on your wall?/
  • Chinese man jailed 33 years for pushing pregnant wife off cliff in Thailand/
  • Economy: Baht still volatile but interest rates steady/Private sector fears Fed interest rates hike may spark recession/Thai Banks Starting to Require Facial Recognition for High-Value Transactions/Thailand’s electric dreams and its impact on Oil Fuel Fund/
  • Tourism: 4 million tourists, 173,000 foreigners, visited Prachuap Khiri Khan in Q1/Airlines bask in sky-high fares while airports stay stuck/UNESCO recognizes five creative cities in Thailand/Phuket reports rapid kickoff for tourism but a lapse on the way/Where to stay in Phuket/’I found paradise, and within 14 years it was destroyed’/
  • Thailand Experience: The other side of paradise/Thai border town Sangkhlaburi has mix of country’s ethnic groups, food, culture and religions/
  • International: Signal failure likely cause in India’s deadliest accident/Ukrainian families return to frontline towns despite Russian threat/Saudi Arabia to reduce oil output to shore up prices/Pill halves risk of death in type of lung cancer/How chocolate could counter climate change/
  • 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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UK crime boss living in Hua Hin finally jailed after five years on the run

A British crime boss who only has one leg has been jailed after he was finally extradited from Thailand after five years on the run. Richard Wakeling, originally from Essex, was tried and found guilty of trying to import £8 million worth of liquid amphetamine into the UK in 2016.

He’d been living in the seaside town of Hua Hin, and was in possession of a passport with a different identity when he was caught by the Thai police in Bangkok. Continued …

Move Forward slams holiday booze ban

The ban on the sales of alcoholic beverages during Buddhist holidays has sparked a heated debate between advocates and critics of the law — including the Move Forward Party, which is campaigning for the end of the ban.

MFP key figures have voiced their opposition to the ban, calling it an unnecessary restriction on individual freedom. Continued …

Pita promises same-sex marriage at 50,000-strong Pride parade

The frontrunner to be Thailand’s next prime minister joined a Pride parade in the capital on Sunday, promising to pass a law that would allow same-sex marriage and gender identity rights if he becomes premier.

Thousands of LGBTQ+ people, their allies and political leaders marched through central Bangkok, marking Pride month and promoting gender equality in the second official Pride parade to be held in the country. Continued …

Giant centipede on your wall?

A giant centipede was videoed climbing up a residential wall, leaving viewers intrigued and startled. The clip, posted by TikTok user @paphatsanat, has accumulated over 6 million views since it was uploaded on social media. the centipede, notably larger and longer than usual, can be seen climbing on the side of a house. Onlookers might shiver at the sight, as the normal size of a centipede is approximately no bigger than a human hand, while this one appears visibly larger and more menacing. (thethaiger.com)

Chinese man jailed 33 years for pushing pregnant wife off cliff in Thailand

A Chinese man who pushed his pregnant wife off a cliff four years ago has been sentenced to 33 years and four months’ jail by Thailand’s highest court.

The man, whose surname is Yu, committed the crime at the Pha Taem National Park in northeast Thailand in June 2019. Continued … 

Baht still volatile but interest rates steady

The Bank of Thailand is monitoring the Thai baht for the coming week, which is expected to fluctuate between 34.40 and 35 baht per U.S. Dollar.

The baht is showing a volatile trend, and attention is focusing on the U.S. services sector index, export volumes, and the direction of the Chinese stock market. Krungsri Bank projects local interest rates will remain mostly stable until the end of this year. Continued …

Private sector fears Fed interest rates hike may spark recession

The Thai Chamber of Commerce is concerned about rising interest rates, which are impacting the global money and capital markets and having a negative effect on Thai exports as the purchasing power of U.S. consumers has declined.

Wisit Limluecha, vice chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Processed Food and Future Food Committee (PFC) of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), said the U.S. Senate’s approval of the draft bill to lift the U.S. debt ceiling allows the U.S. government the opportunity to borrow money and to introduce more economic stimulus measures if necessary. Continued …

Thai Banks Starting to Require Facial Recognition for High-Value Transactions

Financial institutions in Thailand have begun mandating facial recognition for customers conducting high-value transactions. The move, aimed at reducing fraudulent activities and scams, is expected to provide extra security for clients.

Deputy government spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul announced that all commercial and government banks will implement this new security measure. Starting from July, customers transacting 50,000 baht or more via mobile banking, or whose transactions exceed a daily limit of 200,000 baht, will be required to verify their identities via facial-recognition systems. Continued …

Thailand’s electric dreams and its impact on Oil Fuel Fund

Thailand’s transition to electric vehicles (EV) as part of its clean energy policies is presenting a tough challenge for the Oil Fuel Fund and its role in maintaining stable domestic prices.

The Oil Fuel Fund has been working hard to keep the oil prices in the country stable, especially after the Russia-Ukraine war sparked severe global fluctuations in oil prices. Continued …

4 million tourists, 173,000 foreigners, visited Prachuap Khiri Khan in Q1

The tourism industry in Prachuap Khiri Khan province has experienced an increase in visitor numbers during the first quarter of 2023, according to the latest data released by the Department of Tourism and Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

The figures indicate a boost to the local economy and underscore the province’s continued popularity, particularly among domestic tourists but also increasing numbers of foreign tourists. Continued … 

Airlines bask in sky-high fares while airports stay stuck

Soaring ticket prices are lining the pockets of the world’s biggest airlines, providing balm to the economic wounds suffered during the travel lockdowns of Covid-19. But as the industry takes off, airports say they’ve been forgotten at the gate.

Flying will be far more expensive this (northern) summer, according to corporate travel manager American Express Global Business Travel, which analyzed tens of thousands of client transactions on international flights to and from Asian destinations. A typical New York-to-Hong Kong flight in economy class cost more than twice as much this year as in 2019, and almost a third more than last year. Continued …

UNESCO recognizes five creative cities in Thailand

UNESCO has recognized five creative cities in Thailand, for gastronomy, crafts, folk arts and design, according to Anucha Burapachaisri, spokesman for the government.

Phuket was first granted the UNESCO creative city of gastronomy status in 2015, for its traditional food varieties,which have been passed down from one generation to another. The local food industry earns the island province an estimated US$3.6 billion in revenue each year, said Anucha. Continued …

Phuket reports rapid kickoff for tourism but a lapse on the way

Phuket experienced a significant influx of international tourists in the first five months of 2023, with over 6 million arrivals. Although the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Phuket office describes them as “tourists”, the number includes all foreign arrivals for whatever reason.

Among them, Russians constituted the largest number of arrivals, followed by Chinese, Indians, Australians and Kazakhs. Lertchai Wangtrakuldee, the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Phuket office says that the arrival of these tourists injected at least 196 billion baht into the local economy during this period. Continued …

Where to stay in Phuket

Phuket, a large island on Thailand’s west coast, is one of the country’s most popular tourist spots thanks to its white sandy beaches, clear waters and island-hopping opportunities. Because of its size, there is a huge variety of places to stay and areas to choose from.

Phuket’s airport is toward the north of the island, while some of the most popular places to stay in Phuket are on the southern or western beaches, which can take around an hour to reach by car, so planning where to stay in Phuket and how to get there is essential. Continued …

‘I found paradise, and within 14 years it was destroyed’

The self-proclaimed “first tourist” to have visited Koh Phangan in Thailand has spoken of his guilt after sharing details of the pristine island, which led to its eventual ruin and notoriety as a trash-strewn party spot.

In 1979 – like Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Richard in the 2000 hit movie The Beach – Costas Christ was a 20-something backpacker from the U.S., and, eager to get off the beaten track he persuaded a fisherman to take him to a secret spot only locals knew about. That spot was Koh Phangan. Continued …

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The other side of paradise

An hour’s drive from Phuket’s Pa Tong Beach, Bang Rong seems to be an ocean apart from its western counterpart. Located on the east coast, it doesn’t have a white sandy beach. Luxury beach clubs, Sunday brunch with free-flow sparkling wine and a pampering spa are most definitely not on its menu.

“Bang Rong has long served as a pier to Koh Yao and islands further out in Phang Nga Bay. This place, however, has never been a destination in its own right,” says local guide Prasert. “Those who came here earlier were either on their way to other places or looking for mangrove charcoal.” Continued …

Thai border town of Sangkhlaburi has mix of country’s ethnic groups, food, culture and religions

The bus drops me next to a stall at which a young man is placing pieces of red and white betel nut on green leaves smeared with a white paste. Once the masala has been sprinkled, the leaves are folded and taped up in plastic. The men waiting in the long queue for their snack are dressed in checked Burmese longyis.

Betel nut – the chewing of which produces a mild stimulant effect, and shockingly red teeth – is popular in Myanmar. But this is not Myanmar – I am in Sangkhlaburi, a town in western Thailand close to the border and known for its mix of ethnic groups. Continued …

Signal failure likely cause in India’s deadliest accident

India’s Railway Board has suggested that the Central Bureau of Investigation take over the inquiry into Friday’s train collision in Odisha, which claimed the lives of at least 275 people and injured nearly 1,200. The crash, which occurred near the Balasore district, is the deadliest in India in over two decades. As rescue operations concluded on Sunday, signal failure has emerged as the probable cause of the accident. Continued …

Ukrainian families return to frontline towns despite Russian threat

In the eastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro, the train station continues to operate despite Russia’s ongoing invasion. Millions of people depend on these trains, with many passengers traveling to the last stop before the eastern front line. Among them are soldiers and young families returning to their homes. Continued …

Saudi Arabia to reduce oil output to shore up prices

Oil-producing nations have agreed to extend production cuts in an effort to support struggling prices. Saudi Arabia announced its intention to reduce output by one million barrels per day (bpd) in July, while Opec+ stated that targets would decrease by an additional 1.4 million bpd from 2024. Opec+ represents approximately 40% of global crude oil production, and its decisions significantly influence oil prices. Continued …

Pill halves risk of death in type of lung cancer

A pill has been shown to halve the risk of death from a certain type of lung cancer when taken daily after surgery to remove the tumor, according to clinical trial results presented on Sunday. Continued …

How chocolate could counter climate change

At a red-brick factory in the German port city of Hamburg, cocoa bean shells go in one end, and out the other comes an amazing black powder with the potential to counter climate change. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

UPDATED: Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, climate change, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-May 5

  • Hua Hin learning-disabilities school progress reported/
  • Searing heat continues in north, storms most likely in central, eastern and southern regions/
  • Thailand to enter rainy season later this month, less rain expected/
  • ‘Safe’ dust pollution threshold cut 25%/
  • Thailand’s democracy faces pivotal moment in upcoming election/
  • The future of Thai workforce: Embracing flex work and employee experiences/
  • GrabFood No.1* Food Delivery App is now available in English/
  • Bikini-wearing durian seller sparks sales in Kamphaeng Phet/
  • Actress and nurses investigated for buying same poison as killer/
  • Indian gambling kingpin in net after bust in Pattaya/
  • Karen villagers’ settlement in Kaeng Krachan National Park sparks public outcry/
  • Three People Seriously Injured After Guardrail Pierces Through Minivan/
  • Thailand’s One Drone, One Community project aims to boost smart farming/
  • Foreigner police report: Young Polish Woman Dies in Motorbike Accident in Phuket/Canadian teenager found dead in Bangkok condo room/Fun-loving UK teenager dies after taking drugs at Full Moon party/Italian man throws furniture off Pattaya balcony, tests positive for ‘ice’/Body found floating near Koh Samui/
  • Tourism: Why Are Chinese Group Tours in April Lower Than Expected?/Full Moon Party draws 20,000 tourists to Koh Phangan/Tourist Police launch campaign to enforce Alcohol Ban during elections/AOT to extend automated check-in at Suvarnabhumi airport from June 1/AOT to develop Suvarnabhumi into the nation’s first ‘Green’ airport prototype/Sacred Thai temple closes after vendors accused of tarnishing it/Thailand to close several popular islands for environmental restoration/
  • Thailand Experience: The Best Beers To Pair With The Many Flavors Of Thai Food/
  • International: Another Mass Shooting Rocks Serbia Just Days After Deadly School Rampage/Heating oceans a climate ‘time bomb’/Russia takes stock after failed offensive/China factories tap brakes on recovery/Airbnb upbeat as tourism rebounds/In Brazil, a damaged city lives on edge of abyss/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin learning-disabilities school progress reported

Almost 12 months ago, the construction of a new school for children with learning difficulties began near Black Mountain, with the support of a variety of provincial, municipal and education officials, and the sponsorship of many community and business organizations.

E-Jan, a large Bangkok-based media group, is just one of these benefactors offering sponsorship for this significant development in the region’s capacity to meet the needs of disadvantaged children in the community. Continued …

Searing heat continues in north, storms most likely in central, eastern and southern regions

The Meteorological Department today warned the central, eastern, and southern regions to expect possible thundershowers and strong wind gusts.

Low pressure due to heat covers upper Thailand, making it generally hot with cloudy skies during the day, with extreme heat in some areas in the North. Continued …

Thailand to enter rainy season later this month, less rain expected

The rainy season in Thailand will start in the third week of May. The Meteorological Department has announced it is expecting less precipitation this year.

The department expects the amount of precipitation throughout the monsoon season to be 5% less than the normal range. Continued …

‘Safe’ dust pollution threshold cut 25%

The Pollution Control Department (PCD) said it will follow World Health Organization guidelines and reclassify the safe level for ultra-fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from 50 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) to 37.5 µg/m3 in a bid to curb dust pollution.

Jatuporn Burutphat, permanent secretary for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, said the ministry supports lowering the threshold on Thailand’s Air Quality Index. Continued …

Thailand’s democracy faces pivotal moment in upcoming election

As Thailand prepares for its upcoming general election on May 14, the country has found itself facing a pivotal moment in the history of its democracy, with Bangkok residents calling for change after having lived under the current administration for eight years.

“I am certain that change is what I want to see,” said 48-year-old Bangkok resident Naratouch Kanjanakul. “We were previously forced to accept things as they were.” Continued …

The future of Thai workforce: Embracing flex work and employee experiences

Despite facing economic uncertainties, nearly 60% of global executives anticipate their businesses to achieve stable or significant growth. Asian leaders, however, express concerns about the rising cost of capital and debt, labor market tightness, and competition for talent when planning for the upcoming year.

In the Global Talent Trends (GTT) Study 2023 by Mercer, human resources leaders in Thailand shared similar concerns. The study surveyed around 2,500 HR leaders worldwide, with nearly 100 companies in Thailand being represented. Among the issues highlighted were a lack of workforce capability and future skills (47%), too many priorities distracting employees (40%), and juggling transformation with a survival mindset (38%). Continued …

GrabFood No.1* Food Delivery App is now available in English

Living in a foreign country can be a thrilling adventure, but it can also pose its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles for many expats is navigating unfamiliar dining options.

With language barriers and an overwhelming array of unfamiliar dishes, finding a satisfying meal can be a daunting task. Fortunately, in Thailand, there’s an app that stands out from the rest, making your life a little easier: GrabFood. Continued …

Bikini-wearing durian seller sparks sales in Kamphaeng Phet

A young woman wearing a pink bikini has created a buzz by selling durians in front of a roadside shop. The “Thip Durian” shop is located along Kamphaeng Phet-Phichit Road in Mueang District. The woman behind the bikini, Aranya or Nong Aum, is 22 years old. She sells durians to help her mother, who has been selling seasonal fruits for over 31 years to generate income and send her children to study. According to Nong Aum, durian sales have exceeded expectations. (Thai Rath)

Actress and nurses investigated for buying same poison as killer

There has been another twist in the Thai cyanide serial killer case. Not only has the serial killer’s husband been charged with aiding and abetting her crimes and released on bail, but the Royal Thai Police (RTP) is investigating the purchase of some cyanide by a famous Thai actress and 10 nurses, who reportedly bought the poison from the same lot number as the killer.

Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, the alleged Thai cyanide serial killer, has been charged with the murder of 10 of the 14 victims so far. The RTP has finished gathering evidence in the other four cases and it is reported that Am will be charged for those, as well. Continued …

Indian gambling kingpin in net after bust in Pattaya

Chikoti Praveen, an infamous name in India due to his activities in casinos and gambling, has been caught in a major raid by police in Thailand.

He was one among at least 83 Indian tourists caught during the raid. The arrest took place in early hours of Monday at Asia Pattaya Hotel in Bang Lamung District. Chikoti Praveen had raked in more than 12 million dollars from a makeshift casino set up in the hotel’s convention center. Continued …

Karen villagers’ settlement in Kaeng Krachan National Park sparks public outcry

Protests have erupted among local residents in Phetchaburi over the Thai government’s decision to settle 150 Karen villagers in Kaeng Krachan National Park.

The controversy was sparked on April 30 when the prime minister issued an order permitting the villagers to return to arable land located deep within the Bang Kloy Bon area of the national park. Continued …

Three People Seriously Injured After Guardrail Pierces Through Minivan

Three people have sustained severe injuries after a minivan crashed before piercing through a guardrail in the Thung Song district of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

The Thung Song Police were notified of the accident on Thursday morning on the Asia Nakhon Si – Bangkok Road in the Cha Mai subdistrict. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find that a guardrail had pierced through a minivan on the left side. Continued … 

Thailand’s One Drone, One Community project aims to boost smart farming

The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) has announced its plan to launch a pioneering project in Thailand that will provide large drones to communities and offer training in drone maintenance to encourage smart-farming development.

The initiative, titled “One Drone, One Community,” is backed by the Digital Economy Fund and aims to create an economic impact exceeding 800 million baht across 500 communities, with a planned start date in July. Continued …

Foreigner police report:

Young Polish Woman Dies in Motorbike Accident in Chalong, Phuket

A 33-year-old female Polish rider died after she crashed her motorbike and slid under a trailer truck in Chalong, Phuket. Continued …

Canadian teenager found dead in Bangkok condo room

A young Canadian man was found dead in his rented condo room in Bangkok yesterday. Police say they are investigating suspicious evidence found inside the room. Continued …

Fun-loving UK teenager dies after taking drugs at Full Moon party

A fun-loving, “fiercely independent” teenager from the United Kingdom died after taking drugs at a Full Moon party in Thailand an inquest heard. A UK coroner yesterday determined that the 18-year-old woman from Winchester died by misadventure after taking ecstasy while backpacking in Thailand. Continued …

Italian man throws furniture off Pattaya balcony, tests positive for ‘ice’

An Italian man made a scene in front of over 100 witnesses on Wednesday night when he threw furniture and large items off a Pattaya balcony. Continued …

Body found floating near Koh Samui

A dead body was found floating in the sea between Koh Samui on Koh Pha Ngan in Surat Thani province, southern Thailand, yesterday. The deceased appears to be a foreign woman. Continued …

Why Are Chinese Group Tours in April Lower Than Expected?

According to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), the number of tourists traveling in the form of “group tours” through tour companies using the services of ATTA at Suvarnabhumi Airport in April 2023 was between 1,000 and 2,000 people per day, compared to approximately 3,000 to 4,000 people in March, a decrease of over 50%, clearly reflecting the significant loss of tourists traveling through tour companies.

Adith Chairattananon, secretary-general of ATTA, which looks after the inbound market (Chinese tourists), said the big problem for the Chinese tourism market at the moment is the inconvenience of applying for visas. Continued …

Full Moon Party draws 20,000 tourists to Koh Phangan

About 20,000 tourists attended the popular Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan on Thursday night, and it is estimated that the holiday will generate tens of millions of baht for the southern island. Continued … 

Tourist Police launch campaign to enforce Alcohol Ban during elections

Yesterday, Police Lt. Col. Pramet Duangkaew led a team of tourist police officers on a mission to enforce an alcohol ban during the upcoming elections.

They were stationed in the busy Rama 9 market area and the popular Khao San Road, where they distributed flyers and conducted public relations activities. Continued …

AOT to extend automated check-in at Suvarnabhumi airport from June 1

Starting June 1, air passengers can check in with their luggage using automated check-in services up to five hours in advance of their departure time, instead of three hours, in order to address congestion at the check-in counters at Suvarnabhumi international airport, according to Kirati Kitmanawat, president of Airports of Thailand Public Co. (AOT).

He disclosed that passengers are worried about the congestion at check-in, with some arriving at the airport up to seven hours in advance, but check-in counters for most airlines only open three hours in advance of departure, resulting in congestion. Continued …

AOT to develop Suvarnabhumi into the nation’s first ‘Green’ airport prototype

Airports of Thailand’s Chief Executive Officer Kirati Kitmanawat says that AOT has a 4-year plan to turn Suvarnabhumi Airport into the first environmentally friendly, or “Green” airport in Thailand. The goal is to develop renewable energy for use within the airport to reduce electricity costs by an average of 20%-30% per year.

AOT has already installed solar panels on the roof of the main terminal and will be adding further photovoltaic power to support a renewable energy system that can help reduce electricity costs even more, similar to other major airports overseas, which have shifted to solar panels to generate power. Continued … 

Sacred Thai temple closes after vendors accused of tarnishing it

Wat Phra That Phanom, one of the most important spiritual sites in Thailand, will be closed for one month starting today so that a plan can be developed and implemented to ensure the vendors who conduct business in and around the temple do not trash it. The mess vendors make inside and around the temple will prevent Wat Phra That Phanom from being named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is located near the Mekong River in That Phanom district in the southern part of Nakhon Phanom province in the Northeast. (The Nation)

Thailand to close several popular islands for environmental restoration

Four islands in Trang province, southern Thailand, will close for four months to give nature a chance to restore itself after a hectic tourist season, namely Koh Muk, Koh Kradan, Koh Chuek, and Koh Waen. Thailand’s Similan Islands will also close for the monsoon season.

Yesterday, the chief of Hat Chao Mai National Park, Prit Narasaritkul, announced the temporary cease of tourism activities and overnight stays in the park from June 1 – Sept. 30. Continued …

The Best Beers To Pair With The Many Flavors Of Thai Food

Thai food is one of the world’s most unique, flavorful cuisines. There are so many flavors and ingredients that go into that panang curry, tom yum soup, or papaya salad you love at your local Thai restaurant, from lemongrass and chili peppers to fish sauce and coconut milk.

What makes Thai cuisine so delicious and complex is the ability to marry some of the most interesting ingredients harmoniously and fit into five flavor profiles: spicy, salty, sour, sweet, and creamy. Every authentic Thai dish you have the pleasure of digging into expertly blends the above elements. Continued …

Another Mass Shooting Rocks Serbia Just Days After Deadly School Rampage

At least eight people were killed and 10 wounded late Thursday in a drive-by shooting in a town close to Belgrade, the second such mass killing in Serbia in two days, state television reported. Continued …

Heating oceans a climate ‘time bomb’

With sea surface temperatures swelling to new highs in recent weeks, scientists warn that humanity’s carbon pollution has the potential to turn oceans into a global warming “time bomb”. Continued …

Russia takes stock after failed offensive

Russia announced its winter offensive in Ukraine with great fanfare, but the ill-fated campaign has been another disappointment for Moscow. Continued …

China factories tap brakes on recovery

China’s factory activity unexpectedly contracted in April, as orders fell and poor domestic demand dragged on the sprawling manufacturing sector, a private survey showed on Thursday, imperiling the broader economic outlook for the second quarter. Continued …

Airbnb upbeat as tourism rebounds

Airbnb closed 2022 with an impressive turnaround, as the pandemic-hit business reported its first annual profit on revenue growth of 40% to US$8.4 billion, with net income of USD9 billion. Continued …

In Brazil, a damaged city lives on edge of abyss

A few steps from a cliff edge, Deusimar Batista is hanging clothes to dry in her yard. Near it, a neighbor’s house used to stand on a residential street, but they have all collapsed into the abyss. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-April 18

2 Comments

  • Thailand braces for scorching summer/
  • Huge storms wreck about 1,800 houses/
  • Culprits behind dense smog choking Thailand: Corn and wildfires/
  • Fire-fueled haze shrouds both North and South/
  • Kidnapped Chinese man locked in box in Hua Hin/
  • Top 10 reasons to retire in Thailand/
  • How can I be eligible for O visa in Thailand?/
  • Long-Term Visa: Importance of Thailand’s 90-Day Reporting/
  • Report exposes a decade of corruption involving politicians in Thailand/
  • Major arrest opens Pandora’s Box of crimes/
  • Thailand Becomes Major Link in Regional EV Supply Chain/
  • Thai exporters are facing a rocky year/
  • PM Warns Public of New Narcotic Drug/
  • Former Kiwi PM commends Thailand for cannabis decriminalization/
  • Songkran: PKK officials report 44 injuries and 2 deaths on Prachuap’s roads April 11-16/44 Road Accidents in Six Days of Phuket Songkran’s Seven Days/97% of cases taken to court during Songkran involved drunk driving/
  • Covid: Myanmar Man Found Dead, Likely Infected With New Omicron Strain
  • Tourism: Thailand’s Similan Islands to close next month/Inside Thailand’s wild and secret party backpackers are desperate to find/
  • Thailand Experience: Tom Kha Gai ranked 9th in TasteAtlas’s Best Rated Soups in the World/
  • International: Bali considers tourist entry tax/Asia-Pacific state debt reaches 18-year high/200 dead, 1,800 wounded in Sudan battles/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand braces for scorching summer

Climate experts are warning that Thailand will experience hotter and drier conditions in the upcoming months as a result of El Nino weather patterns, and they caution that this is just the start of the impact of climate change.

While hot and humid weather is expected at this time of year, recent heatwaves have been more extreme than anticipated. A new high-temperature record of 45.4 degrees Celsius was measured in Tak on Saturday, breaking the previous record of 44.6 degrees Celsius in Mae Hong Son on April 28, 2016. Continued …

Huge storms wreck about 1,800 houses

Around 1,800 houses in 10 provinces were damaged after summer storms wreaked havoc across the Northeast and South over the weekend, as authorities continued the search for crew members of stricken trawlers off the coast of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

According to authorities, the storms battered 235 villages in Amnat Charoen, Surin, Chaiyaphum, Sakon Nakhon, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Roi Et, Kalasin, Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat, damaging a total of 1,781 houses across the country. Continued …

Culprits behind dense smog choking Thailand: Corn and wildfires

It was almost midnight, and the full moon appeared an eerie burnt orange above the streetlights that were clouded by the smog hanging in the air.

“Our nose burns, our throats get stuck and our eyes turn teary. It has been this way since February,” said Phattanik Masa, a resident of Mae Sai, in northern Thailand, who was wearing two face masks as she stood in line with others to offer alms to monks. Continued …

Fire-fueled haze shrouds both North and South

As wildfires continue to rage in many parts of the North and a district in southern Yala province, both parts of the country are being affected by the haze the fires produce.

Many parts of Betong, the southernmost district in Yala, were shrouded in thick haze yesterday, prompting complaints of eye irritation and respiratory problems from locals. Continued …

Kidnapped Chinese man locked in box in Hua Hin

One suspect was arrested and four others are being tracked down by police after the abduction of a wealthy Chinese man in Bangkok on Friday and payment of a 3.5-million-baht ransom.

The victim was smuggled out of a Bangkok condominiun in a plastic box and taken to Hua Hin. Continued …

Top 10 reasons to retire in Thailand

Known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and affordable cost of living, people are now considering the benefit to retire in Thailand.

According to a survey by International Living, Thailand ranks as the ninth best country to retire in 2021, based on factors such as cost of living, healthcare, climate, and lifestyle. In addition, a survey by HSBC found that Thailand ranks as the seventh most popular retirement destination for expats worldwide. Let’s deep dive into the reasons why Thailand makes for a great retirement spot. Continued … 

How can I be eligible for O visa in Thailand?

Thailand is a popular destination for expats, digital nomads, and retirees looking for a new adventure. To stay in Thailand for an extended period, a non-immigrant visa is required, with several categories to choose from.

One of these categories is the O visa, which is specifically designed for foreigners who wish to retire in Thailand. The O visa is also known as the Thai Retirement Visa and is available to applicants who are 50 years of age or older. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet several requirements that we will look into below. Continued …

Long-Term Visa: Importance of Thailand’s 90-Day Reporting

The 90-day reporting is a requirement for foreigners staying in Thailand for an extended period of time. It is a process where non-Thai nationals need to report their current residential address and other personal information to the immigration authorities every 90 days.

The 90-day reporting is mandatory for anyone who holds a long-term visa, such as a non-immigrant visa, retirement visa, marriage visa, or work permit. Failure to comply with the 90-day reporting can result in fines, deportation, or other legal consequences. Let us explore how can we seamlessly comply with Thailand’s rules and regulations and the possible consequences if we fail to do so. Continued …

Report exposes a decade of corruption involving politicians in Thailand

The Anti-Corruption Organization of Thailand (ACT) recently published a report detailing graft cases involving politicians over the past decade. The most significant financial loss, amounting to 130 billion baht, was caused by the rice-pledging scheme.

The report studied 61 cases involving a total of 68 politicians, analyzing media coverage, investigations by the National Anti-Corruption Commission, and rulings by the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions and the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases from 2012 onward. Continued …

Major arrest opens Pandora’s Box of crimes

The arrest of a 53-year-old Chinese woman with Thai citizenship and a long history of alleged criminal activities means more to police than just busting a document forgery ring.

Navaporn Phakiatsakul, who was detained on April 8 in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district, is the alleged leader of a criminal syndicate involved in fraud, surrogacy and human trafficking, according to national Deputy Police Chief Surachate Hakparn. Continued …

Thailand Becomes Major Link in Regional EV Supply Chain

As Japanese, Chinese and South Korean electrical vehicle (EV) makers race to launch production bases in Southeast Asia, Thailand and Indonesia are becoming two prime destinations for investments in EV parts and materials.

Japanese plastics maker Kuraray recently opened its first plant in Thailand, one of a growing number of EV-related investments in the kingdom, in a joint venture with local petrochemical giant PTT Global Chemical and Japanese trading house Sumitomo Corp. Continued …

Thai exporters are facing a rocky year

Prospects for Thai exports look weak this year, as a storm of economic uncertainties are expected to slow down shipping.

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) lists the likelihood of a global recession, the impact of the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, high inflation and currency fluctuations as risk factors behind sluggish international trade in 2023. Continued …

PM Warns Public of New Narcotic Drug

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has warned the Thai public of a new narcotic drug being sold on social media, while urging officials to monitor the situation closely. Anyone found guilty of sharing or posting content advertising the use of narcotics will face a prison sentence of up to two years or a 200,000 baht fine.

The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has reported that powdered ecstasy is being sold on social media. The substance is usually concealed inside sachets of other products such as electrolyte drinks, collagen drinks, or instant coffee. Continued …

Former Kiwi PM commends Thailand for cannabis decriminalization

Helen Clark, former New Zealand prime minister and a current member of the International Commission Against the Death Penalty, applauded Thailand for decriminalizing cannabis. However, she also urged the country to put an end to capital punishment, particularly for drug-related offenses.

During the Harm Reduction International Conference 2023 (HR23), Clark commended Thailand as one of the countries that has managed to successfully decriminalize cannabis, which she believes is a crucial step in ending unnecessary criminalization. Clark said. Continued …

PKK officials report 44 injuries and 2 deaths on Prachuap’s roads April 11-16

Officials have announced the number of accidents and fatalities that occurred on roads throughout the first six days in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province during Songkran.

Officials said that during the period from April 11-16, there were 42 accidents on the roads, resulting in 44 injuries and two fatalities. Continued …

44 Road Accidents in Six Days of Phuket Songkran’s Seven Days

Phuket has announced in total 44 road accidents in six days (April 11–16) in Songkran’s Seven Days of Danger road accidents campaign.

The Phuket Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) office said details on the sixth day (April 16) of the ‘Songkran’s Seven Days of Danger’ road accidents campaign. Continued …

97% of cases taken to court during Songkran involved drunk driving

A total of 8,575 drunk-driving cases represented 96.7% percent of all motoring-related cases taken to court by the police during the seven days of Songkran celebrations, seeking to have the drivers be placed on probation, according to the Department of Probation.

The courts, however, only ordered drivers in 1,910 of the cases to be placed on probation. These include 1,870 cases of drunk driving and 40 of the 270 cases of drinking while driving. Continued …

Myanmar Man Found Dead, Likely Infected With New Omicron Strain

A Myanmar man was found dead in his room in the Sathorn area after celebrating Songkran with his friends and it is suspected that he was infected with the new Omicron subvariant XBB. 1.16, a newspaper said Monday afternoon.

Police Lt. Col. Saranyapong Thongpan, an investigator at Wat Phraya Krai police station, was notified of a Myanmar man having died at a commercial building on Chan road and went there to check with a forensic doctor from Chulalongkorn Hospital and rescuers Ruamkatanyu Foundation. Continued …

Thailand’s Similan Islands to close next month

Thailand’s Similan Islands were bustling with tourists during the Songkran holidays but will soon be much quieter when the archipelago closes for a period of environmental restoration on May 19.

The marine park will be closed off to tourists during the monsoon season and will reopen again on Oct. 15, after nature has had a chance to recover from a hectic high season. Continued …

Inside Thailand’s wild and secret party backpackers are desperate to find

The island of Koh Phangan attracts thousands of backpackers every year but there is one secluded party spot they are all desperate to find.

After a boat trip or a two-hour trek through the snake-infested Thai jungle, intrepid travelers can find themselves at the Eden Garden party. Continued …

Tom Kha Gai ranked 9th in TasteAtlas’s Best Rated Soups in the World

Food guide website TasteAtlas ranked the traditional Thai dish Tom Kha Gai, or coconut chicken soup with galangal, ninth in the 100 Best Rated Soups in the World. The well-known Tom Yum soup came in at 16th.

The list was compiled based on votes from foodies around the world and published on the TasteAtlas website on March 30. Tom Kha Gai scored an impressive 4.7 out of 5, earning it a place in the top 10. Continued …

Bali considers tourist entry tax

Indonesia is considering a tourism levy for visitors to Bali, adding another potential hurdle for holidaymakers after the island cracked down on traffic and visa breaches. Continued …

Asia-Pacific state debt reaches 18-year high

The average government debt level in Asia-Pacific is at an 18-year high, with most developing economies in the region trying to stabilize it at current levels by 2027, according to recent research. Continued …

200 dead, 1,800 wounded in Sudan battles

Fighting between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed around 200 people and wounded 1,800, damaging hospitals and hampering aid after three days of urban warfare. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-Feb 6

  • TAT Prachuap eager to build links with expat community/
  • Hot weather forecast as February ends/
  • Yoga on the beach/
  • PM2.5 dangers – guidelines issued by the ministry of education/
  • Chiang Mai struggles with dangerous PM2.5 readings for 5 days/
  • World record performance set tonight at Rajabhakti Park/
  • Bangkok is still sinking, and fast!/
  • Pitfalls of making a will in Thailand/
  • Thailand Open champ: China’s Zhu Lin/
  • Bangkok set to get 40 to 50 new pocket parks this year
  • Bryde’s whales return to marine park off Surat Thani/
  • Tourism: American tourists spend more money than Europeans in Thailand/Chinese tour groups to start arriving in Thailand today/Opinion: The Labyrinth That Is Corruption in Thailand/Mice scurry back to Thailand/Vendors decry BMA push to clean up pavements/It’s back to party mode in Koh Pha-ngan/Russian airline aborts takeoff after engine explodes on runway at Phuket Airport/Fifth round of subsidies for domestic tourism begins next month/Customs not inspecting tourists’ personal items/
  • Thailand Experience: Elephant Freedom Project Offers Unique, Ethical Elephant Tourism Experience in Chiang Mai/The only Phuket travel guide you will need to plan your Thai vacation/
  • Covid: No point in counting Covid cases anymore as virus is here to stay/Leisure/entertainment activities are not biggest source of Covid infection/
  • International: Massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake knocks down buildings in Turkey, Syria/Global food prices down for 10th consecutive month in January/Fierce battles in Bakhmut as Russian missiles hit Kharkiv/20% More To Be Paid for Solar Power from Japan Businesses’ Rooftops/US military shoots down Chinese spy balloon/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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TAT Prachuap eager to build links with expat community

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) says it is eager to grow the relationship it has with the expatriate community in Hua Hin and throughout Prachuap Khiri Khan.

According to Achawan Kongkanan, director of the TAT Prachuap office, tourism officials pay close attention to the local expat community.

However, he wants to strengthen ties between the regional TAT office and foreigners who live in the area long term. Continued …

Hot weather forecast as February ends

Thailand’s dry season is forecast to begin at the end of February, 1-2 weeks later than normal, but average temperatures will be higher than last year, reaching 40-43°C in some areas from mid-March to mid-April.

According to the Thai Meteorological Department, the average maximum temperature this summer is forecast to be at 35.5°C in the north of the country, which is close to normal, but higher than last year’s 34°C.

Thailand’s north and northeast will be cool in the mornings, from the end of February to mid-March, but hot during the day time. Temperatures could reach 43°C in some areas, which will result in summer storms from mid-March to mid-April. Continued …

Yoga on the beach

More than 100 people took part in the Hua Hin Yoga Festival on Saturday in front of the Verso Hotel in Khao Takiab. The event will be held every Saturday throughout February starting at 5pm and is open to everyone. Feb. 8, 11, and 25 are the next events. (HHT)

PM2.5 dangers – guidelines issued by the ministry of education

As Thailand continues to grapple with the ongoing air pollution crisis, officials have provided guidelines for students and school staff to protect themselves from PM2.5.

The guidelines include: avoiding outdoor activities for extended periods, wearing face masks when outdoors, wearing long-sleeved shirts, taking showers or washing skin after exposure to polluted air, using air purifiers with high-efficiency particulate air filters, seeking medical attention for respiratory symptoms or skin irritation, and generally maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

PM2.5, fine dust particles in the air, pose serious health risks, particularly to young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic lung disease. Continued …

Chiang Mai struggles with dangerous PM2.5 readings for 5 days

Fine dust levels in the northern city of Chiang Mai have risen beyond safe levels for five consecutive days, the provincial authorities announced on Sunday.

Chiang Mai Gov. Nirat Pongsitthavorn said the concentration of PM2.5 particulate matter had risen beyond the safe level of 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air (μg/m3) mainly due to forest fires.

The Air4Thai app operated by the Pollution Control Department reported that the air quality in Chiang Mai Muang district’s Sri Phum area came in at 73μg/m3 on Sunday morning. Air quality in Hot district’s Hang Dong area measured at 90μg/m3. Continued …

World record performance set tonight at Rajabhakti Park

The final dress rehearsal of the the world’s largest performance of the Wai Kru at Rajabhakti Park was held yesterday. Tonight, 5,000 fighters will demonstrate the Wai Kru as part of an official Guinness World Record attempt. The ceremony istarts at 6pm. (HHT)

Bangkok is still sinking, and fast!

Getting Bangkok ready for the consequences of climate change is crucial for saving this megacity from being submerged under rising sea levels, climate experts say. Continued …

Pitfalls of making a will in Thailand

While it is sometimes possible to obtain court probate without a will, that can be a difficult process for foreigners in particular. Their next-of-kin relatives might well be living thousands of miles from Thailand and dying intestate can create legal pitfalls and dangers of several kinds.

Should a will be in the Thai language?

Yes. A popular practice these days is to draw up a will in Thai with an English translation for convenience. But it is the Thai version that the probate court will accept.

The will should name an executor (responsible for carry out the terms) and be witnessed by at least two witnesses. Witnesses cannot be otherwise mentioned in the will. Continued …

Thailand Open champ: China’s Zhu Lin

China’s Zhu Lin was crowned the 2023 Thailand Open presented by E@ champion with her victory Sunday over Ukraine’s Lesia Tsurenko at Hua Hin’s True Arena. The WTA 250 title is the first of Zhu’s career. – HHT

Bangkok set to get 40 to 50 new pocket parks this year

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will this year open 40 to 50 small public parks that will be just 15 minutes away for most communities.

A BMA source, who asked not to be named, said on Sunday that the city administration was taking steps to set up the parks in line with Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt’s election promise.

Chadchart had promised to turn small unused plots in Bangkok into parks for locals to escape the heat and to exercise. Continued …

Bryde’s whales return to marine park off Surat Thani

Three Bryde’s whales were seen frolicking in a marine national park off the coast of Surat Thani province on Friday, but park officials were only able to identify two of them by name. They identified “Wandee” and “Wanrung” in the database of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources. Staff have been instructed to monitor the Bryde’s whale population since two were spotted in Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park on Feb. 1. (The Nation)

American tourists spend more money than Europeans in Thailand

Americans spend an average of 96,269 baht (US$2,887) per person while traveling in Thailand, higher than European visitors, who spend $2,684, a survey shows.

U.S. tourists spend an average of 2,000-3,000 baht on accommodation a night and they always stay in the country up to 15 days per trip, according to the survey conducted by the Tourism Council of Thailand, which polled 200 Western tourists during the final quarter of last year.

The survey also showed that European tourists spend 1,000-2,000 baht per night on accommodations and stay in Thailand for 13 days on average. Continued …

Chinese tour groups to start arriving in Thailand today

Thailand is ready to welcome Chinese package tourists who will start arriving from today now that Beijing has lifted travel restrictions, a government spokesperson said.

In preparation for the influx, Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is coordinating with the Tourism and Sports Ministry and the Transport Ministry to put all necessary measures in place for welcoming tour groups from China, deputy government spokesperson Traisulee Trisaranakul said.

She added that public and private agencies have estimated that the return of tour groups from China would be gradual because tour agencies have been on hold for three years during the pandemic. Continued … 

The Labyrinth That Is Corruption in Thailand

Police extortion is getting out of control, flaunting the justice system like never before – or was it?

Imagine if Taiwanese actress Charlene An did not have the mettle and social media followers to expose seven Thai policemen at a Huay Kwang checkpoint in Bangkok of extorting her and her three friends 27,000 baht on Jan. 4 for possession of three e-cigarettes and not carrying passport, then we would not have known about such disgraceful and corrupt behavior by these supposed “law enforcers.”

One wonders how many more cases went unreported over the months and years simply because the foreign victims were not famous or too afraid to speak out. Continued …

Mice scurry back to Thailand

Tourism has flourished since Thailand fully reopened in the second half of last year.

For business travel, the sector known as MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) saw a big leap after Thailand hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Bangkok, with many hotels getting a boost from this segment.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and Phuket have been running the bidding process for Specialized Expo 2028, with the aim of driving the economy of the island tourist site through collaboration between the private and public sectors. Continued … 

Vendors decry BMA push to clean up pavements

Authorities have been working on making the city’s sidewalks more pedestrian-friendly since Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt took office last year, as it was one of the 216 pledges he had made a month before he was elected.

The move was made possible following an administrative reorganization in December last year, which saw 19 municipal heads asked to clean up several districts across the capital.

“When a new (municipal head) arrives, they bring a fresh perspective to the problem. When I went along the Sukhumvit area, I could see it was much better already. Continued …

It’s back to party mode in Koh Pha-ngan

Koh Pha-ngan’s second full moon party after the pandemic was a resounding success, with more than 20,000 revelers showing up.

The Sunday event at Rin Beach featured concerts, fire shows and free-flowing booze, though police and security officials were at hand to ensure everybody’s safety.

Wijarn Chunthwichit, the district chief, said most tourists had traveled from Surat Thani’s other islands like Koh Samui and Koh Tao to attend the event. Continued …

Russian airline aborts takeoff after engine explodes on runway at Phuket Airport

Video on Youtube shows fire coming from the underside of a passenger plane during takeoff from Phuket International Airport.

It was Azurair Flight number ZF 3604 bound for Moscow at 5 pm on Saturday.

The flight was aborted after an engine on the right side of the aircraft exploded. The pilot was alerted to smoke by air traffic control. Continued …

Fifth round of subsidies for domestic tourism begins next month

The timeline for the fifth phase of the government’s domestic-tourism promotion campaign – which provides subsidies to hoteliers and tourists to encourage travel – will run from early March until the end of April, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced on Friday.

The fifth phase of the “We Travel Together” campaign received Cabinet approval on Tuesday with a budget of 2.016 billion baht.

The government provides subsidies equivalent to 40% of room rates, capped at 3,600 baht per room per night, through the campaign. A total of 560,000 room subsidies will be available and each one will include a 600 baht voucher for tourists to buy food or services. Continued … 

Customs not inspecting tourists’ personal items

Customs Department Deputy Director-general Phantong Loykulnanta has emphasized customs officials will not conduct personal inspections of arriving foreign tourists at airports, even if they are carrying or wearing multi-million-baht personal items.

He said this policy aligns with the country’s reopening.

Phantong said it is the department’s policy to make life convenient for tourists and not burden them. Continued …

Elephant Freedom Project Offers Unique, Ethical Elephant Tourism Experience in Chiang Mai

The Elephant Freedom Project, a well-established elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, offers a unique and ethical elephant tourism experience for visitors to the region. The project allows guests to spend a day in these majestic creatures’ natural environment without using chains, hooks, or riding.

Guests can interact with the elephants, feed them, and learn about their behavior and habits. They can also learn about the Elephant Freedom Project’s conservation efforts to protect these magnificent animals. The project is based on the principle that elephants should be treated with respect and dignity and that tourism should be ethical and sustainable.

“While on a recent trip from Bangkok, we spent a day at the elephant sanctuary Chiang Mai at the Elephant Freedom Project. What a wonderful experience our family had. The staff was great, the transportation and tour were all very well organized, and we had a splendid time interacting with the elephants. A well-deserved five-star recommendation.” said Henry P. Continued … 

The only Phuket travel guide you will need to plan your Thai vacation

One of Thailand’s most loved and frequently explored travel destinations, Phuket, is the largest island in the country. Laden with white sand beaches, thriving nightlife, gastronomical adventures and a lot more, the list of places to visit in Phuket is endless.

Whether you’re on a backpacking trip or for leisure, Phuket has it all. Wondering how to outline your trip? Our Phuket travel guide comprises the list of stunning attractions to see, dishes to try and things to do for a picture-perfect vacation.

Having a tropical climate pattern, Phuket is primarily warm, rainy and pleasant often. However, it never gets too cold. The coldest season, with temperatures ranging between 23°C to 30°C, starts from November and continues until February. This is the best time to travel to Phuket. The sea is the calmest during this time. You can relax and enjoy your time at the beach without having to worry about the weather. Continued … 

No point in counting Covid cases anymore as virus is here to stay

Covid-19 is not going anywhere and will soon become another seasonal disease like influenza, Chulalongkorn University’s top virologist said on Monday.

Dr. Yong Poovorawan said there is no point in counting Covid-19 cases now, as the figure only represents a fraction of the true number of infections.

Over 70% of people globally, or around 5 billion, may have been infected with Covid-19, while the recorded figure is only 700 million Covid-19 cases, he said. Continued … 

Leisure/entertainment activities are not biggest source of Covid infection

The two biggest sources of Covid-19 infections are the workplace and public transport, an infectious disease expert revealed today.

Associate Prof. Dr. Thira Woratanarat from Chulalongkorn University cited a recent study in England and Wales that showed the two most common reasons for infections were leaving home for work (17%) and public transport (12%).

The study of 11,413 samples found that essential activities (work and public transport) carried the greatest risk and were the dominant contributors to infections, said Thira. Continued … 

Massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake knocks down buildings in Turkey, Syria

A 7.8 magnitude quake knocked down multiple buildings in southeast Turkey and Syria early Monday and many casualties are feared. In northwest Syria, the opposition’s Syrian Civil Defense described the situation in the rebel-held region as “disastrous”, adding that entire buildings have collapsed and people are trapped under the rubble. Continued …

Global food prices down for 10th consecutive month in January

Global food prices dropped for the 10th consecutive month in January, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) said on Friday. The latest index averaged 131.2 points in January, falling 0.8% since December. FAO reported small price decreases on its latest meat and sugar indices. Continued …

Fierce battles in Bakhmut as Russian missiles hit Kharkiv

Heavy fighting was underway Sunday in the northern parts of the front line hotspot Bakhmut, while Russian missile strikes on Ukraine’s second-largest city Kharkiv wounded five people. Continued …

20% More To Be Paid for Solar Power from Japan Businesses’ Rooftops

The Japan economy ministry plans to introduce a system in which electric power generated by solar panels on the roofs of company buildings, factories and warehouses will be purchased at 20% higher prices than power generated from panels on the ground. There are a limited number of places where solar panels can be installed, so the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry is aiming to encourage the proliferation of renewable energy sources through the use of roof space. Continued …

US military shoots down Chinese spy balloon

The US military shot down a suspected Chinese spy balloon over the Atlantic Ocean off the Eastern Seaboard of the United States yesterday according to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. President Joe Biden approved the operation, which resulted in a diplomatic fallout between Washington and Beijing. The balloon was first spotted in the sky over Montana earlier in the week and had traveled across the country before being shot down off the coast of South Carolina. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

 

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