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bangkok, cha am, covid, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Feb 1

  • Cha Am Bikini Beach Run March 19/
  • Dust levels unsafe in 53 provinces, including PKK/
  • Power bills poised to drop by mid-year/
  • What to do if Thai police stop you and attempt a ‘shake-down’/
  • Thailand’s corruption standing for 2022 an improvement over 2021/
  • Thailand Elite Card embroiled in scandal over suspicious Chinese businesses/
  • Cabinet approves adjustments to basic daily wages for 17 professions/
  • Thailand to boycott SEA Games Muay Thai after Cambodia changes name/
  • BMA hospitals going solar as Bangkok targets net zero emissions/
  • Tourism: Thai tourism industry ups forecast to 30 million foreign arrivals this year/Thailand tourist fee: 300 baht via air, 150 baht via land/sea/More than 200,000 Tourists Visit Samui Island in January/Phuket plays Russian roulette – an existential problem for the island’s tourism/Russian woman bites off British woman’s finger in Ko Pha Ngan bean bag row/RTP Chief apologizes to Taiwanese actress: ‘Good cops will be rewarded – bad ones punished’/7 Bangkok policemen moved, face charges over Taiwanese actress’s bribery accusation/Senior traffic cop transferred after allegedly extorting 30,000 baht from tourist(s)/Floating market: “Long running con” investigated after tourist pays 5,000 baht for two hour trip/German Man Missing After Jumping From Ferry Near Phangan Island/Pirate-themed floating restaurant seating 100 sinks off Pattaya/Qatar Airways launches thrice daily flights to Phuket/
  • Thailand Experience: These 11 Ancient Temples In Thailand Have Stories To Tell/Experience luxury at these 8 Bangkok riverside hotels/
  • Covid: Beijing reaches ‘temporary herd immunity’/
  • International: Southeast Asia factories fire up as China reopens/Trees could cut urban heatwave mortality by a third/US hits Myanmar with new sanctions on coup 2nd anniversary/49 boys drown in Pakistan boating accident/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Cha Am Bikini Beach Run March 19

Dust levels unsafe in 53 provinces, including PKK

PM2.5 dust levels above the safe limit of 50 micrograms per cubic meter were reported in 53 provinces across the country, including Bangkok and its suburbs, this morning.

The worst hit area was in tambon Lat Yai of Muang district in Samut Sakhon province, with harmful levels of PM2.5 dust at 132mcg/m³, the Pollution Control Department’s air pollution center reported on today.

In the Central Plains, dust levels were at 37-132 mcg/m³, with dust exceeding safe levels in parts in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, Lop Buri, Sing Buri and Ang Thong. Continued …

Power bills poised to drop by mid-year

Electricity bills for businesses are likely to become less expensive around mid-year as factors that earlier drove up energy costs are losing steam, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The prospect of a new fuel tariff (Ft) was greatly anticipated during an informal meeting held on Tuesday by representatives from the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking and state energy agencies.

“A new Ft rate to be enforced between May and August tends to get lower, causing no further impact on businesses and households,” said Isares Rattanadilok na Phuket, vice chairman of the FTI. Continued …

What to do if Thai police stop you and attempt a ‘shake-down’

First thing … keep calm. Let them lead the conversation and don’t say anything other than answering their questions.

Secondly, the vast majority of Thai police are there to do a job, protecting fellow Thais and foreign visitors. But there are a few who will take advantage of situations where they think they can get away with stitching you up for a few thousand baht.

Recent events have brought this to our attention, again, and we would invite everyone to just review these recommendations if you find yourself in this situation. Continued …

Thailand’s corruption standing for 2022 an improvement over 2021

Thailand’s corruption standing for 2022 improved nine places to 101st, from 110th out of 180 countries in 2021, according to the 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International. Thailand is fourth among ASEAN countries.

Secretary-General of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) Niwatchai Kasemmongkol said that Thailand scored 36 points, compared to 35 points in 2021.

The world’s top performer was Denmark, which scored 90 points, followed by Finland and New Zealand, which scored 87 points. Top performer among Asian countries was Singapore, which was ranked fourth place globally, with 83 points. Continued … 

Thailand Elite Card embroiled in scandal over suspicious Chinese businesses

Thailand’s tourism and sports minister has responded to allegations that members of the Elite Card program have been linked to dodgy Chinese businesses – the same Chinese and Chinese businesses that are being linked to the ongoing “Tuhao” investigation.

Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn says he’s asked the Royal Thai Police to look into the claims, saying they will potentially “affect Thailand’s tourism sector and overall reputation”.

Tourism operators have suggested the Elite Card application process be linked to international police so that criminal checks can be carried out. Phiphat says that as part of the current process, Thailand Privilege Card, which operates the Elite Card program, sends applicants’ personal information to the Immigration Bureau and the Department of Consular Affairs, who carry out criminal checks. Continued …

Cabinet approves adjustments to basic daily wages for 17 professions

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved the Labor Ministry’s proposal to adjust the wages for skilled workers in 17 fields, which would see them earning between 465 and 700 baht daily.

Labor Minister Suchart Chomklin said the Cabinet agreed to adjust the minimum daily rate for the 17 professions, provided they receive a certificate from the Skill Development Department.

The professions to be covered are divided into three groups, namely the industrial sector, technicians and workers in the service sector. Suchart said there is a big demand for people in these fields. Continued …

Thailand to boycott SEA Games Muay Thai after Cambodia changes name

Thailand will boycott the kickboxing competition at this year’s Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in protest against hosts Cambodia using the sport’s local name of Kun Khmer rather than Muay Thai.

The National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) announced on Tuesday that no Thai athletes will compete in kickboxing at the regional games, hosted by Phnom Penh from May 5-17.

The NOCT added, however, that to avoid a dispute between the two countries, it will not try to stop the host from organizing kickboxing under its Khmer name. Continued …

BMA hospitals going solar as Bangkok targets net zero emissions

Hospitals under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Medical Division will be hooked up with solar power under an agreement signed with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) yesterday.

The move aims to cut hospitals’ expenses as well as reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, said Deputy Bangkok Gov. Tavida Kamolvej, who presided over the deal-signing ceremony.

“Bangkok would like to thank the ERC for realizing the importance of public hospitals, which require a lot of power to provide quality healthcare to the people. Since hospitals use power 24/7, switching to solar energy will also greatly reduce pollution emissions,” she said. Continued …

Thai tourism industry ups forecast to 30 million foreign arrivals this year

Thailand’s tourism industry expects foreign arrivals to exceed 30 million this year, significantly higher than government estimates of 25-27.5 million.

Making the forecast on Tuesday, the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) predicted foreign and domestic tourists would generate over 3 trillion baht in revenue this year.

However, TCT President Chamnan Srisawat warned the huge volume of customers will pose challenges for the Thai tourism industry, which is still recovering from the ravages of Covid-19. Continued …

Thailand tourist fee: 300 baht via air, 150 baht via land/sea

Thailand plans to charge foreign arrivals arriving by air a tourist fee of 300 baht (US$9.11) and a fee of 150 baht (US$4.56) for tourists entering the kingdom via land/sea by mid-2023.

The 300-baht tourist fee for air arrivals has been in the pipeline for a long time and is set to be enforced in June after facing several Covid-19-related delays.

However, the Ministry of Tourism wasn’t sure about whether to apply the fee to tourists entering Thailand via land or sea borders. Continued …

More than 200,000 Tourists Visit Samui Island in January

More than 200,000 tourists have visited Samui Island since the beginning of this year.

The Surat Thani Gov. Wichawut Jintoe told the press yesterday that from Jan. 1 to Jan. 23, there were 178,077 tourists who visited Samui Island. Of those, 86,507 arrived by planes and 91,570 arrived by ferries.

“This number did not include tourists from cruise ships, which were four rounds for one-day trips and two rounds stayed on Samui Island for one night. At the end of this month, there will be more than 200,000 tourists who are visiting Samui Island,” Wichawut noted. Continued …

Phuket plays Russian roulette – an existential problem for the island’s tourism

While Phuket’s tourism tzars are delighted with the surge of arrivals into Phuket in recent months, the statistics reveal some crucial warnings for Phuket’s immediate tourism future. And, despite all the back-patting from the local Tourism of Thailand office, Phuket’s total tourist arrivals are still below 50% of average pre-pandemic levels.

Still, Phuket’s tourism stakeholders have been lapping up the surge of mostly Russian arrivals, as hotels, restaurants and seats in tour boats have been filling up over the past two months.

Let’s check out the actual statistics. Continued …

Russian woman bites off British woman’s finger in Ko Pha Ngan bean bag row

A leisurely stroll on a Thai beach with two friends and a dog bizarrely evolved into a scene from a horror movie after a Russiannwoman went berserk, chomped on a British woman’s finger and spat it out.

The British woman was walking her dog with a German friend on a beach on Ko Pha Ngan Island when they spotted an unoccupied bean bag chair next to a couple of tourists. They decided to take a break, enjoy a drink, and lie down for a bit.

But a Russian woman, identified as Vavara G, wasn’t happy about the arrangement and an argument broke out with the British woman, Angelina H. Continued …

RTP Chief apologizes to Taiwanese actress: ‘Good cops will be rewarded – bad ones punished’

A stony-faced chief of the Royal Thai Police Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittipraphat faced the massed ranks of the Thai media yesterday.

He apologized to the Taiwanese actress and the public who had faced financial losses at the hands of some of his men.

Damrongsak only took over at the helm of the RTP late last year. He admitted that since then there had been many incidents, both good and bad, that he had to deal with. Continued …

7 Bangkok policemen moved, face charges over Taiwanese actress’s bribery accusation

Seven police officers from Bangkok’s Huay Kwang Police Station have been transferred and charged with dereliction of duty for allegedly extorting 27,000 baht from a Taiwanese actress early this month.

Police Maj-General Attaporn Wongsiripreeda, commander of the Metropolitan Police Division 1, signed an order on Monday transferring two captains and five sergeants to inactive posts so a strict disciplinary investigation can take place. Continued …

Senior traffic cop transferred after allegedly extorting 30,000 baht from tourist(s)

The chief of the Chonburi provincial police has ordered that a senior traffic policeman at the Muang Pattaya police station be transferred to inactive duties at HQ after allegations that he extorted 30,000 baht from a Chinese tourist or tourists.

The allegation had appeared on the site of the National Guides’ Assn. which had a clip of the incident. A fine of 60,000 baht had been demanded after an electronic cigarette device was found.

This was bargained down to 30,000 baht. Continued …

Floating market: “Long running con” investigated after tourist pays 5,000 baht for two-hour trip

A Thai tourist has claimed being charged 5,000 baht for a two-hour boat trip at the Damnoen Saduak floating market in Ratchaburi, southwest of the Thai capital Bangkok.

The tourist, who had been with her husband, said that they faced high charges everywhere they went on a two-week trip to the country.

She seemed to have a foreign husband in tow. Either that or they were paying more because they were going to places with foreign tourists. Continued …

German Man Missing After Jumping From Ferry Near Phangan Island

A German man has gone missing after he reportedly jumped from a ferry near Phangan Island in Surat Thani.

The Royal Thai Navy Second Area Command reported to Thai media that they were notified that a male foreign tourist jumped from a ferry heading from Phangan Island at 7pm last night to Donsak in Surat Thani.

Fifteen minutes after the ferry left the pier near Phangan Island, passengers shouted out that someone jumped off the ferry. The ferry captain turned the vessel around to search for the passenger while calling the Royal Thai Navy for assistance. Continued …

Pirate-themed floating restaurant seating 100 sinks off Pattaya

A salvage mission has been launched after a pirate-ship-themed floating restaurant sank off Pattaya on Monday. The tourist boat, named Krakenian The Private of Pattaya, capsized in heavy seas about two kilometers from Pattaya city. Fortunately, the tourist boat-restaurant was closed at the time due to bad weather, and no injuries or deaths were reported from the sinking. (The Nation)

Qatar Airways launches thrice daily flights to Phuket

Qatari flag carrier Qatar Airways is launching three flights per day between Doha and Phuket in southern Thailand starting yesterday to meet the ever-growing demand.

The additional flights bring the airline’s number of services to Thailand up to seven per day, including four flights to and from Bangkok.

Doha is a major Middle Eastern transport hub and most of the passengers flying to Thailand from Doha have flown in from London, Manchester, Paris, Frankfurt, Zurich, and New York. Continued …

These 11 Ancient Temples In Thailand Have Stories To Tell

Few countries in all of Asia fascinate travelers and adventurers as much as Thailand. Home to spectacular beaches, authentic Thai dishes, and colorful festivals, the country attracts millions of adventure seekers each year.

For those looking to explore some of Thailand’s more unique offerings, its ancient temples are a great option. From grand Buddhist temples to exquisite Hindu shrines, the country is full of enigmatic places that have stories to tell. Here are 11 amazing ancient temples in Thailand travelers should not miss out on!

Wat Phra Kaew

Located in the heart of Bangkok, Wat Phra Kaew is the most sacred temple in Thailand. Built to house a relic of the Lord Buddha, this grand complex comprises several splendid buildings and elaborate stucco decorations. It is also home to one of the world’s largest collections of Buddhist art. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in the beauty of this temple. Visitors should note that dress codes apply when visiting temples in Thailand, so modesty is important. Continued …

Experience luxury at these 8 Bangkok riverside hotels

Bangkok has some of the most amazing hotels in the world, and those located near the Chao Phraya River are among the best. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable stay or a memorable experience, Bangkok’s riverside hotels offer something for everyone. From luxurious resorts with breathtaking views to chic boutique hotels with incredible amenities, let’s take a look at the the eight Bangkok magical riverside hotels.

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

If you’re looking for an extraordinary hotel experience while in Bangkok, then Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is a perfect choice. This five-star hotel is sure to exceed all your expectations with its unparalleled amenities and service.

From the moment you arrive at the hotel, you’ll be swept away by the breathtaking view of the river! Plus, the luxurious rooms offer a peaceful sanctuary after a long day of sightseeing or shopping. Continued … 

Beijing reaches ‘temporary herd immunity’

Beijing has reached “temporary herd immunity” and its Covid outbreak is nearing an end, a city health official said on Tuesday, in another sign China’s unprecedented virus wave is waning.

A torrent of cases has cascaded through the world’s most populous nation since the ruling Communist Party abruptly ended its zero-Covid policy last month.

The surge packed hospitals and crematoriums in major cities, including Beijing, though the scale of the outbreak is hard to verify given that official data is believed to represent a tiny fraction of the true number of cases. Continued …

Southeast Asia factories fire up as China reopens

Asia’s manufacturers are improving at the start of the year as the region becomes more optimistic about how China’s re-opening might help offset an otherwise gloomy outlook for the rest of the world. Continued …

Trees could cut urban heatwave mortality by a third

Planting more trees in urban areas to lower summertime temperatures could decrease deaths directly linked to hot weather and heatwaves by a third, researchers said today. Continued …

US hits Myanmar with new sanctions on coup 2nd anniversary

The United States slapped fresh sanctions on Myanmar Tuesday, a day before the Southeast Asian country marks the second anniversary of a military coup that launched a violent campaign against democracy activists. Continued …

49 boys drown in Pakistan boating accident

Forty-nine children died when their overloaded boat capsized in northwest Pakistan, police said Tuesday after divers spent three days dragging bodies from freezing waters. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added 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 

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-Jan 26

  • 4-meter-high waves at Ao Manao/
  • Asia’s economies show resilience and growth for 2023/
  • Rising living costs take toll on spending/
  • Bangkok’s new central station still has some problems to address/
  • Bangkok, six northern provinces to see air quality worsen over weekend/
  • Migrating Russian ducks chill out in northern Thailand/
  • Bangkok, Chonburi, Songkhla chosen as venues for SEA Games 2025/
  • Thai FDA recalls South Korean noodles over cancer risk/
  • School of Italian Culinary Arts opens its flagship school in Bangkok/
  • Tourism: ‘No police officer offering VIP services to tourists will be spared’/Airport cracks down on police following Chinese influencer’s video/Facebook page exposes ‘VIP fast-track’ entry services for Chinese tourists/Taiwanese celeb says she was ‘extorted by Thai police’/Tunnel of blooming monkey trees enticing tourists to Saraburi/Koh Samui welcomes first Taiwanese tour group in 3 years/Pattaya prepares for return of Chinese tour groups/Asia travel hotspots quiet as Chinese tourists stay away/Longtail boat sinks off Krabi, 2 Malaysian tourists die/Should tourists in Thailand take a gamble on Poipet?/
  • Thailand Experience: 4 best destinations in Thailand to go off-grid/
  • Covid: Covid hospitalizations, deaths drop sharply in 3rd week of January/China says Covid deaths down by nearly 80%/
  • International: Japanese government set to legalize medical marijuana/Philippines shakes off inflation for best growth since 1976/Myanmar opium cultivation surging under military rule/Meta says Trump to be allowed back on Facebook, Instagram/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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4-meter-high waves at Ao Manao

Large waves up to 4 meters high resulted in the main road along the Prachuap Bay beachfront in Prachuap Khiri Khan being partially flooded. The beaches in Prachuap bay and Ao Manao were marked off limits on Wednesday after strong winds and waves made conditions too dangerous for swimming.

Asia’s economies show resilience and growth for 2023

Asia can defy a global economic slowdown in 2023 through an acceleration in digital transformation, greater regional coordination, and balanced monetary policies, according to new research from the London-based think tank, Asia House.

The Asia House Annual Outlook 2023 examines how Asia’s economies can prevail and deliver robust growth through increased domestic demand for goods and services, countering the global headwinds of high inflation, tighter monetary policy and increasing geopolitical tensions.

Key among the Annual Outlook’s recommendations are those relating to prioritizing innovation – to spur carbon pricing, lower green premiums for zero-carbon alternatives, and boost underfunded and high-impact projects with blended finance. Continued … 

Rising living costs take toll on spending

Cautious spending, flexible payment and authentic automation are among the key consumer trends to look out for in Thailand this year, according to London-based market research firm Euromonitor International. Continued … 

Bangkok’s new central station still has some problems to address

State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has vowed improvements at Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal after numerous complaints from passengers.

The agency admitted “many issues” had arisen at the new 34-billion-baht national terminus in Chatuchak district after it became the hub for long-distance trains running north, northeast and south last week.

“SRT governor Nirut Maneepan has ordered its officials to improve services in response to passengers’ complaints as soon as possible,” SRT public relations director Ekarat Sriarayanpong said on Tuesday. Continued … 

Bangkok, six northern provinces to see air quality worsen over weekend

Bangkok and six northern provinces in Thailand are expected to see air quality worsen over the weekend, according to Thailand’s Pollution Control Department (PCD).

The PCD reported yesterday that air quality across the country ranged from very good down to a health-threatening level at 11 am. The amount of PM2.5 dust particles in the atmosphere also exceeded the standard level in many areas nationwide: Continued … 

Migrating Russian ducks chill out in northern Thailand

Thailand’s chilly temperatures have brought thousands of wild ducks to a Yasothon reservoir after their 5,000-kilometer journey from Siberia. Lam Thuan Reservoir in Muang district provided a treat for birdwatchers on Wednesday as the migrating flock basked in the cold 13C sunshine of the northeastern province. Yasothon has declared the reservoir a no-hunting zone to protect the ducks and other wild birds that have migrated from the frozen Siberian tundra in Russia. They fly back north during the summer months when temperatures in the Land of Smiles are too high for them to mate and lay their eggs. (The Nation)

Bangkok, Chonburi, Songkhla chosen as venues for SEA Games 2025

The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) on Wednesday selected Bangkok, Chonburi and Songkhla provinces as the venues for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) to be hosted in 2025.

The board of directors made the selection during a teleconference meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan. Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn and SAT Gov. Kongsak Yodmanee attended the meeting.

The 33rd SEA Games will be held Dec. 9-20,2025. The biennial multi-sport event brings together participants from the 10 ASEAN members and Timor-Leste. Continued … 

Thai FDA recalls South Korean noodles over cancer risk

The Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, has recalled over 3,500 instant noodle cups from South Korea over concern they contain a harmful carcinogen.

Thailand has frozen shipments of Nongshim Shin Ramyun, an instant noodle from South Korea, after suspicions that its seasoning packets contain ethylene oxide, according to FDA Deputy Secretary Withit Saritdeechaikul. The chemical is linked to cancer and used to produce compounds such as car engine antifreeze or pesticides.

A total of 3,520 Nongshim Shin Ramyun cups were seized by FDA for lab testing They will report the results at a later date. Continued … 

School of Italian Culinary Arts opens its flagship school in Bangkok

ALMA – The School of Italian Culinary Arts — an authoritative center for high education in Italian cuisine and hospitality internationally — officially marked the opening of its first flagship school in Southeast Asia with a special inauguration ceremony at The Food School Bangkok, Thailand’s first multinational culinary school, where ALMA, alongside TSUJI Culinary Institute and Dusit Thani College, is based.

Presided over by Enzo Malanca, president and CEO of ALMA – The School of Italian Culinary Arts, Paolo Dionisi, ambassador of Italy to Thailand, and ALMA’s Italian chef Instructors, the inauguration ceremony served as a platform to welcome the first batch of students of ALMA’s Italian cuisine and Italian bakery and pastry certificate courses. Malanca also shared the inspiration and vision behind opening the first flagship ALMA school in Southeast Asia at The Food School Bangkok. Continued … 

‘No police officer offering VIP services to tourists will be spared’

The national police chief has ordered the police inspector-general to launch an investigation after a popular Facebook page alleged that VIP fast-track entry services sponsored by Thai police have been advertised in China for more than 10 years.

Gen. Damrongsak Kittiprapas said on Wednesday that he had assigned the police inspector-general to set up a fact-finding committee to investigate the allegations.

“Please be assured that no one will be spared,” the national police chief said. Continued … 

Airport cracks down on police following Chinese influencer’s video

Suvarnabhumi International Airport has sent a notice to police, customs and excise agencies to ensure their personnel comply with security measures following a viral clip of police providing fast-track entry services for a Chinese tourist.

Jiraporn Wongtala, director of the security division of the airport, issued the circular on Monday, addressing it to the headquarters of Samut Prakarn Provincial Police, Tourist Police Division 1, Immigration Police Division 1, the Suvarnabhumi Customs Office and the Samut Prakan Excise Office 2.

The five agencies must instruct their personnel to strictly wear uniforms and carry ID cards openly when they enter the airport, Jiraporn said in the notice. Continued … 

Facebook page exposes ‘VIP fast-track’ entry services for Chinese tourists

A Thai Facebook page has exposed that multiple fast-track entry services have been available for Chinese tourists on a Chinese e-commerce platform despite denial by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The page “Lui Chin” (Shoot to China) said in a post on Tuesday that multiple “VIP” fast-track entry services at Thai airports were sold on China’s Taobao e-commerce platform.

The post on the FB page was apparently in response to an announcement by the TAT earlier on Tuesday that its offices in China could not find the ad offering such fast-track entry services to Chinese tourists. Continued … 

Taiwanese celeb says she was ‘extorted by Thai police’

Following news that the Royal Thai Police had allegedly offered a special “VVIP” airport to hotel fast-track service to a Chinese tourist for 7,000 baht comes even worse press for Thailand’s recovering tourism industry.

That case – revealed in a clip – involved the tourist being escorted by immigration officers via a police motorcade to Pattaya.

Now a Taiwanese celebrity called An Yu Ching in Chinese and known as Charlene An in English has taken to Instagram to relate her experience just after New Year. Continued … 

Tunnel of blooming monkey trees enticing tourists to Saraburi

A tunnel of monkey flower trees, also known as “Pradu Daeng”, is ready to welcome visitors who drive along a road at the Thai-Danish Dairy Farm in Saraburi province. Somporn Srimuang, director of the Dairy Farming Promotion Organization of Thailand, said, “Monkey flower trees bloom once a year from January to February,” adding that they are older than 10 years and are located on a mountainous route. (The Nation)

Koh Samui welcomes first Taiwanese tour group in 3 years

Thailand’s tropical holiday island of Koh Samui welcomed its first Taiwanese tour group in nearly three years on Tuesday. The group of 142 tourists enjoyed Koh Samui’s nature tourism, as well as its temples and shrines.

The group also planned to travel to Koh Ang Thong, Koh Tao, and Koh Nang Yuan for four days. The group had a three-night trip planned for Surat Thani, the former president of the Samui Tourism Assn. said. Continued …

Pattaya prepares for return of Chinese tour groups

Pattaya is preparing for Chinese tour groups to finally return to the renowned party city. On Tuesday, Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches met with the Thai-Chinese Tourism Assn. to discuss how best to accommodate the influx of Chinese tourists to the city.

The association’s president, Chanaphan Kaewklachaiwut, advised Poramese to step up Pattaya’s security and sanitation to impress Chinese tourists.

Chanaphan said a tour company in the association would create a tour package for Chinese tourists. The package will be divided into three groups: luxury, medium, and normal. Continued … 

Asia travel hotspots quiet as Chinese tourists stay away

Just a handful of Chinese visitors were posing for photos and basking in the sun this week in the market and plazas near Chiang Mai’s ancient Tha Phae Gate, one of many tourist hotspots still waiting for millions of Chinese travelers to return.

The beaches and temples of destinations like Bali and Chiang Mai are the busiest they have been since the pandemic struck three years ago, but they’re still relatively quiet.

Still, Chanatip Pansomboon, a soft drinks seller in the Chinatown district of Chiang Mai, a scenic riverside city in northern Thailand, was upbeat. He trusts that with the number of flights from China steadily increasing, it’s only a matter of time. Continued … 

Longtail boat sinks off Krabi, 2 Malaysian tourists die

A longtail boat carrying a family of Malaysian tourists sank off the coast of Krabi province in southern Thailand yesterday.

A 36-year-old pregnant woman and her six-year-old child died, while the father and Thai boat operator survived with the help of a local fisherman.

A young fisherman, 21-year-old Warit Changmin, went out fishing for squid in Laem Hang Nak cape, Mueang district, when he decided to turn back to shore due to sudden rain and strong winds yesterday afternoon. Continued …

Should tourists in Thailand take a gamble on Poipet?

Poipet, a boomtown on the Khmer side of the Thai – Cambodian border, is known for two things: visa runs and gambling.

Just 3.5 hours away from Bangkok, Poipet is popular with tourists looking to exit and reenter Thailand’s border to gain more time in the kingdom.

Beyond the immigration office lies an otherwise unspectacular-looking urban municipality that transforms into a glittering, neon-lit gamblers’ Disneyland after dark. Continued … 

4 best destinations in Thailand to go off-grid

Giant online travel agency Booking.com offered tourists four off-grid places across the country since its research revealed that “Back to Basics” has become the newest travel trend among Thai tourists in 2023.

The sample group of research respondents includes 504 Thai people who plan to travel for work or pleasure in the next 12 to 24 months.

It was shown that 69% of Thai travelers are looking to escape from reality this year by embarking on an off-grid vacation; 78% desire to learn essential survival skills, while 70% want to go back to basics with only the bare necessities. Continued …

Covid hospitalizations, deaths drop sharply in 3rd week of January

Thailand’s Covid-19 hospitalizations and deaths dropped in the third week of January, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) said on Wednesday.

A total of 627 people were hospitalized with severe Covid symptoms from Jan. 15-21, an average of 90 per day. This was lower than the 969 hospitalized from Jan. 8-14, averaging 138 patients per day.

So far this year, 2,593 people have been admitted to hospital for Covid-19 symptoms. Continued …

China says Covid deaths down by nearly 80%

The number of daily Covid-19 deaths in China has fallen by nearly 80% since the start of the month, authorities have said, in a sign that the country’s unprecedented infection surge may have started to abate.

A wave of virus cases has washed over the world’s most populous nation since Beijing abruptly ended its zero-Covid policy last month.

Beijing’s figures are believed to only represent a fraction of the true toll, given China’s narrow definition of a Covid death and official estimates that swathes of the population have been infected. Continued … 

Japanese government set to legalize medical marijuana

The Japanese government is poised to allow the use of medical marijuana to treat patients with intractable diseases, according to the outline of bills revealed on Tuesday. The government is considering submitting bills including one to revise the Cannabis Control Law during the current Diet session. Continued …

Philippines shakes off inflation for best growth since 1976

The Philippines weathered the fastest inflation and highest policy rate in 14 years to deliver one of Asia’s strongest expansions, shoring up the economy by the most in decades amid a bleak global outlook. Continued …

Myanmar opium cultivation surging under military rule

Opium cultivation in military-ruled Myanmar jumped 33% last year, reversing a six-year downward trend in the strife-torn country, a United Nations report said today. Continued …

Meta says Trump to be allowed back on Facebook, Instagram

Social networking giant Meta announced Tuesday it would soon reinstate former president Donald Trump’s accounts on Facebook and Instagram with “new guardrails,” two years after he was banned over the 2021 U.S. Capitol insurrection. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added 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 

 

 

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, cha am, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-Jan 13

  • Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain tomorrow/Foreign husband in Cha Am dies after saving Thai wife learner driver/Illegal pork import gets destroyed in Cha Am/Chula develops blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s 10 years before onset/Parliament study a blueprint for legalizing casinos minus controls: NGO/Corruption investigation leaves some Thai immigration officials in hot water/Thai economy up against it in 2023 despite the Chinese tourist hype/Merged True-DTAC to be called True Corp/Baht surges to its strongest level in 10 months/Australian Woman Runs Over, Kills Street Painter in Pattaya/Thailand’s birth rate falls to 71-year low, sparking alarm/2-meter tapeworm found in Thai man who eats raw meat/
  • Tourism: Hua Hin: City of Happiness?/PKK names 8 districts for tourism promotion/Foreigners Sought Who Allegedly Attacked Thai Tourists on Samui Island/Foreign Doctor on Vacation Rescues Russian Lady from Drowning at Patong Beach/5 foreign tourists injured as vehicle topples down ravine in Chiang Rai; driver dead/Foreign tourist breaks back at Pai waterfall/Phuket officials quash plans for floating beach club/
  • Thailand Experience: Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments/Where to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok/
  • Covid: Thailand clarifies all measures to control Covid as tourism surges/Seniors urged to get two booster jabs this year/
  • International: Study linking asthma and cooking gas stirs debate/Scientists sound alarm as ocean temperatures hit new record/Putin signals impatience over Ukraine war in commander switch/Chinese cities to pay people to have children/Tell-all book ‘Spare’ sells record 1.4M copies on day one/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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Swedish group to play free concert at Black Mountain tomorrow

Popular Swedish band Duo Jag will perform in a free concert at Black Mountain Golf Club on Saturday.

The group will perform favorite hit songs from all genres of music from recent years.

Foreign husband in Cha Am dies after saving Thai wife learner driver

A husband from Myanmar has died after helping his Thai wife escape death after she reversed into a 10-meter deep pond in front of their house at a Cha- Am housing estate.

Naimo, 39, had decided to let his learner driver wife Noranat, 41, reverse out of their home in Ban Nong Yao, Khao Yai subdistrict.

She later admitted she was not a good driver and she accidentally panicked in reverse by stepping on the accelerator. Continued …

Illegal pork import gets destroyed in Cha Am

Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives buried more than 700,000 kilograms of smuggled pork meat and entrails in Petchaburi province’s Cha Am district yesterday.

According to Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, the 723,786kg of smuggled pork — worth 123 million baht — was the largest load of illegal meat ever destroyed by the authorities.

The idea of burying pork came from the World Organization for Animal Health. The method was touted as the safest, cheapest, and most effective eco-friendly method that the authorities can use. Continued …

Chula develops blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s 10 years before onset

The Thai Red Cross Emerging Infectious Diseases Health Science Center at the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, has unveiled research on a blood test for markers of Alzheimer’s that can give a 10-year warning. The test may enable people to slow the development of dementia in old age.

Alzheimer’s is a disease that many people pray that they or their loved ones do not experience. But looking at today’s social context, there’s no denying that the disease is more relevant to us than it seems because it usually manifests itself when we are 60 years old and above. The fact that we are in an aging society, dementia, therefore, becomes more common.

Currently, 50 million people are suffering from dementia around the world. In Thailand, there are 700 thousand such patients, 500 thousand of which suffer from Alzheimer’s. Continued …

Parliament study a blueprint for legalizing casinos minus controls: NGO

An NGO has slammed the Thai Parliament’s study on entertainment complexes as a blueprint for legalizing casinos that ignores damage to society from legalized gambling.

Thanakorn Khomkris, secretary-general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, said that about 95% of the report focuses on how to legalize and collect revenues from casinos, while only 5% is devoted to other entertainment-complex businesses such as hotels, theme parks, sports arenas, and shopping malls.

“This shows that the study aims to highlight the pros of legalizing casinos in Thailand, while many important topics have been omitted, such as prevention of money laundering and other criminal activities, and the impact of legalized gambling on society,” he said on Thursday. Continued …

Corruption investigation leaves some Thai immigration officials in hot water

A corruption investigation has left some Thai immigration officials in hot water over their alleged involvement in helping Chinese businessmen. Senior Immigration Bureau investigators say they found clear evidence that some officers are helping foreign criminals by serving as owners of foundations that provided visas to Chinese nationals.

According to reports, one of the foundations had its headquarters in a chicken coop, which is clearly the wrong location for a foundation office. Further findings revealed schools applying for visas for such Chinese nationals, as well as falsification of signatures by a deputy governor.

The investigation found some IB officers using a fake foundation to hire agents to falsify visa documents. Police are expected to summon the accused officers, who range from station heads and commanders to officers. Continued …

Thai economy up against it in 2023 despite the Chinese tourist hype

Thailand’s economy in 2023 is already facing challenges and mired in difficulty despite the resumption of the Chinese tourist trade, with the country recording a current account deficit in November. A sharp drop in exports in the last three months of 2022 culminated in a 7.5% dive in December.

These latest figures have led to a revised GDP growth for the last quarter of the year, down from 4.5% to 2.5%. The downturn in the manufacturing and export sector, which accounts for 60% of the economy, is coming with the government seeking to fund a ฿3.34 trillion budget announced on Thursday for the year ahead, while seeking to control public sector debt, including short-term liabilities of ฿250 billion incurred to tamp down inflation last year, money that is owed to the country’s oil fund and electricity generation firms.

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan ocha and key ministers attended a ceremony at Government House on Thursday where the budget to 2024 was unveiled totaling ฿3.34 trillion in expenditure. General Prayut pointed out that the government would have to find the tax revenue to fund the budget and referred to the ongoing economic recovery, particularly in the foreign tourism sector. Continued …

Merged True-DTAC to be called True Corp

The boards of the telecom operators True Corp.oration and Total Access Communication (DTAC) have agreed to call their merged company True Corporation.

A joint shareholders’ meeting will be held on Feb. 23 to approve the new corporate structure and other details related to the amalgamation, the companies said in statements to the Stock Exchange of Thailand on Thursday.

The merger, to be completed within the first quarter of this year, will result in the creation of a telecom giant with a total of 55 million mobile subscribers, compared with 45 million for the current market leader Advanced Info Service Plc (AIS). Continued …

Baht surges to its strongest level in 10 months

The bath strengthened to 33.06 per United States dollar this morning, the highest level in 10 months, according to Kasikorn Research Center (KRC).

The Thai currency appreciated from 33.36 to the dollar when the market closed on Thursday, center research executive Kanchana Chokpaisarnsilp said. Continued …

Australian Woman Runs Over, Kills Street Painter in Pattaya

An Australian driver accidentally ran over a street painter on the job and killed him in Pattaya Wednesday.

The victim, Prasit Kabphet, was painting the road at the entrance of Wongamat Residence Condominium in Soi 16 in the Naklua subdistrict, Banglamung district, Chonburi.

CCTV footage discovered that the 62-year-old Australian, Michelle Ann Eddy, seemed to be totally unaware of Prasit when she turned her vehicle around the corner to enter her condo’s front gate where the 45-year-old victim was working. The driver then ran over the victim and kept driving to her parking lot, where someone rushed to tell her that she had run over a man. Continued …

Thailand’s birth rate falls to 71-year low, sparking alarm

Thailand is becoming a graying society as the number of children born last year hit a 71-year low, the Social Development and Human Security Ministry announced on Thursday.

Only 502,000 children were born in Thailand last year, about 30% below the target of 700,000 and the lowest birth rate in 71 years, Anukul Pidkaew, permanent secretary at the ministry, told a press conference.

He was joined by Dr. Somchai Jitsuchon, a researcher at the Thailand Development Research Institute. Both described the low birth rate as a “crisis”. Continued …

2-meter tapeworm found in Thai man who eats raw meat

A Thai man posted a video on social media to warn people to avoid eating raw meat after a two-meter tapeworm was found in his body.

Amarit Chuetamuen posted videos to share his deworming experience. In the first video, Amarit told his followers that his anus had become itchy and then felt something slipping out of his bottom.

He thought it was his intestine at first but found that it was moving. Then, a 10-centimeter parasite worm slipped out of his back end. The cause of parasites like this is believed to be consuming raw beef. Continued … 

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

Hua Hin: City of Happiness?

Hua Hin government officials have devised a new local development plan for 2023-2027, with the theme “Hua Hin, the City of Happiness”, which includes five strategies:

  1. Promotion of tourism, infrastructure and economy development.
  2. Promote the development of education, religion, culture and recreation.
  3. Promote the development of public health and the environment
  4. Promote development of social welfare, community and quality of life
  5. To promote the development of administration and services

PKK names 8 districts for tourism promotion

The “Hidden Wow Prachuap Khiri Khan” project will promote tourist attractions or tourist resources in eight districts with high potential to increase the depth of travel experiences in the province.

The campaign aims to distribute tourists both locally and during travel time to reduce the concentration of tourists in any particular area. Tourists will also be encouraged to travel on weekdays and focus on the advantages of travel year-round.

The eight identified districts for the Hidden Wow campaign are:

  • Hua Hin District: Khao Tao and Khao Tao Reservoir
  • Pranburi District: Kung Sai Beach and Khao Kalok Beach
  • Pranburi District: Phraya Nakhon Cave, Nom Sao Island, and Khao Daeng Canal
  • Kui Buri District: Kui Buri Safari National Park
  • Amphoe Mueang including the 3 bays (Ao Prachuap, Ao Manao, Ao Noi) and Khlong Bueng Reservoir.
  • Thap Sakae District: Koh Chan – Koh Thai Si Ban Thung Pradu Tourism Community and Khao Lan Waterfall
  • Bang Saphan District, including Phra Mahathat Chedi Phakdi Prakak Bo Thong Lang Bay and gold pan culture courtyard
  • Bang Saphan Noi District: Pha Fang Daeng and Khao Pho – Hua Hin municipality

Foreigners Sought Who Allegedly Attacked Thai Tourists on Samui Island

Foreigners who allegedly attacked a group of Thai tourists on Samui Island reportedly relocated to Phuket. Thailand’s most famous cop, “Big Joke”, has personally ordered for the suspects to be found.

The Bo Phut Police said they have identified a group of foreigners who allegedly attacked Thai tourists on New Year’s Eve. A summons for assault has been issued for them and the foreigners, who are believed to be expats, have been encouraged to turn themselves in. Thai police have also contacted the Immigration Bureau in regards to the visa status of the suspects.

Deputy National Police Chief Gen. Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn went to the Bo Phut Police Station on Samui Island to make urgent progress on the case. Continued …

Foreign Doctor on Vacation Rescues Russian Lady from Drowning at Patong Beach

A foreign tourist, who is a licensed medical doctor, rescued a Russian tourist from drowning at Phuket’s Patong Beach.

Patong lifeguards said that on Wednesday a female Russian tourist was struggling in the seawater. Foreign tourists who saw the incident helped to pull her up to the beach.

The female Russian tourist was unconscious and had no pulse. A male foreign tourist and Patong lifeguards provided help and CPR to the Russian woman before her pulse was detected again. Continued …

5 foreign tourists injured as vehicle topples down ravine in Chiang Rai; driver dead

An accident on the hill leading up to Moo Ban Akha Pang Klang, a popular tourist area in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, resulted in one death and five injuries.

A Toyota Fortuner was driven off the dirt track and toppled 30 meters down a ravine, flipping many times. It ended up in the Mae Sat creek.

The driver Weerawat, 51, from Chiang Mai, was reportedly thrown out of the vehicle, then crushed and drowned under its weight in the creek. Continued …

Foreign tourist breaks back at Pai waterfall

A foreign tourist broke his back in a motorbiking accident at a waterfall in the backpacking hotspot of Pai, Mae Hong Son province on Thursday.

Issam Messaoudi, a dual Belgian-Moroccan national, was rescued and rushed to Pai Hospital after his motorcycle lost control while he was riding up a path next to Mor Paeng waterfall in Pai district.

X-rays taken at the hospital showed his spine was broken, prompting medics to transfer him to the better-equipped Bangkok Hospital in Chiang Mai – an agonizing 130-kilometer journey. Continued …

Phuket officials quash plans for floating beach club

Phuket Gov. Narong Woonsiew and a number of other officials have put a stop to plans to launch a floating beach club, or party boat, in the Andaman Sea. Narong says he “does not approve” of Yona Beach Club’s plans and has ordered officials to carry out inspections and meet with the club’s owners.

The vessel has spent the past two weeks on a PR charm offensive, inviting media and influencers to visit the boat while it’s been moored in Patong Bay.

Meanwhile, Capt. Krit Kluebmat of the Maritime Enforcement Command Center says officials from Kathu District Office and Patong Municipality Office also oppose the idea, claiming the boat will cause environmental damage and create too much noise. Continued …

Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments

Thailand is known for its tropical climate, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of natural remedies. Historically, Thai herbs and natural remedies have been used to treat a wide variety of ailments.

From digestive problems to skin issues, Thai herbs and natural remedies can help provide relief and promote better health overall. Here is a list of some of the most commonly used Thai herbs and natural remedies for common ailments.

Kaffir Lime

Kaffir lime is a citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia. It has a distinct, strong aroma and flavor that is used to add a unique taste to dishes. It is often used as an ingredient in Thai and other Southeast Asian cuisines. Continued …

Chatuchak weekend market

Where to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok

Bangkok is an amazing city with a variety of delicious and healthy food. Whether you are looking for fresh produce, organic items or just some good deals, there are many great places to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok. From bustling street markets to large supermarkets, you are sure to find something that fits your needs and budget.

Some of the best places to shop for affordable healthy food in Bangkok include Chatuchak Market, Makro, Big C, Tesco Lotus, the Tops Supermarket, and the Natural Food Market. With these great options, you can find everything you need for a healthy and affordable diet in Bangkok.

Chatuchak weekend market

This market is a true Bangkok experience – a shopper’s paradise with over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to food. With its bustling atmosphere and endless variety of goods, it is no wonder the Chatuchak Weekend Market (JJ Market) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok. Continued …

Thailand clarifies all measures to control Covid as tourism surges

The National Communicable Diseases Committee on Thursday approved the government’s revised measures for controlling Covid-19, including tests on arriving tourists with obvious symptoms of the disease, and charging fees for vaccinating tourists who voluntarily request shots.

The decisions were made at the committee’s first meeting of the year, which was chaired by Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

It followed an earlier decision by the government to reimpose proof of vaccination for all foreign tourists ahead of the imminent return of tourists from China. That decision was, however, quickly scrapped. Some confusion resulted, so the committee provided a detailed list of its preparations for ensuring Covid-19 remains under control as tourism surges. Continued …

Seniors urged to get two booster jabs this year

The Department of Disease Control is urging senior citizens and individuals with chronic diseases to get two doses of Covid-19 vaccine this year as a precaution against coronavirus infections.

DDC chief Tares Krassanairawiwong said the elderly and those living with chronic conditions should get a booster ahead of the upcoming rainy season, and another before the cooler weather arrives toward the end of the year. Continued … 

Study linking asthma and cooking gas stirs debate

New research that links cooking with natural gas to around 12% of childhood asthma cases has sparked debate about the health risks of kitchen stoves, as well as calls in the United States for stepped-up regulation. Continued … 

Scientists sound alarm as ocean temperatures hit new record

The world’s oceans, which have absorbed most of the excess heat caused by humanity’s carbon pollution, continued to see record-breaking temperatures last year, according to research published Wednesday. Continued … 

Putin signals impatience over Ukraine war in commander switch

President Vladimir Putin’s move to replace his top commander in Ukraine is a sign of military disarray and his growing impatience in a war Russia is not winning, analysts said. Continued … 

Chinese cities to pay people to have children

With China on track to record its first population decline in more than six decades, cities across the country have announced new cash incentives to encourage couples to have more children. Continued … 

Tell-all book ‘Spare’ sells record 1.4M copies on day one

Prince Harry’s memoir sold a “record” 1.4 million copies in just 24 hours, its publisher said on Thursday, as his father and brother kept calm and carried on with public visits. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added 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 

 

90-day online reporting

 

bangkok, covid, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-Dec 20

  • 21 crew members still missing from sunk Navy ship off PKK/KResearch revises Thailand 2023 GDP forecast to 3.2 % amid global economic recession/Central bank upbeat on long-term growth/8.1 million Thais are poor, 4.4 million below poverty line/State agencies prep new ‘gifts’/Food chain contamination found near e-waste processing facilities in Thailand/Food delivery businesses face slump in demand next year/UK Tesco accused of using slave labor in Thailand/Cops crack down on firearm traders/Nine provinces in southern Thailand suffer from flooding, three people die/
  • Tourism: Thailand leads BBC travel destination poll/Anutin: Night venue hours ‘won’t be extended’/THAI plans more Europe, Japan flights/10 Best Thailand Resorts For Couples/Tourists Leave Samui Island by Plane as Boats are Banned from Leaving Ports/Driver leaves Norwegian at gas station – ‘I thought he was sleeping in the back’/Body of Canadian man washes up on beach in southern Thailand/
  • Covid: China’s Covid surge hits trading floors, finance hub
  • International: Indonesia’s foreign retirees fear being driven out by new visa scheme/House Jan. 6 panel recommends DOJ prosecute Trump on four charges/Five takeaways from congressional report calling for Trump charges/Dutch PM apologizes for 250 years of slavery/France bans disposable packaging, utensils in fast-food restaurants/
  • Links: Airport schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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For more information, email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

21 crew members still missing from sunk Navy ship off PKK

In total, 84 members of the Royal Thai Navy have been rescued from the Gulf of Thailand after the HTMS Sukhothai navy vessel sank to the bottom of the sea amid rough conditions.

Navy vessels, tug boats, and oil tankers rescued 84 crew members from the water, three of whom are in critical condition, and are still searching for 21 missing marines. One body has been recovered. Continued …

KResearch revises Thailand 2023 GDP forecast to 3.2% amid global economic recession

Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch) has revised its 2023 GDP growth projection to 3.2 % from the previous projection range of 3.2-4.2 %, though its 2022 GDP growth forecast has been upgraded to 3.2 % from the earlier projection of 2.9 %.

Nattaporn Triratanasirikul, KResearch deputy managing director, viewed that the global economy will see a significant slowdown in 2023 – presenting an obstacle for the Thai economic recovery. The U.S. and Eurozone are set to show no growth given their policy rate hikes to tame inflation and the impact of an energy crisis in Europe.

Meanwhile, it is more likely that China will reopen its borders in the second quarter of 2023. However, close attention should be paid to the situation there, especially the number of infected cases and deaths, as well as the adequacy of China’s public healthcare system. Continued …

Central bank upbeat on long-term growth

The Bank of Thailand expects the economy to continue to align with potential growth projections for the next two years, then strengthen in the longer term.

For 2022, 2023 and 2024, economic growth is estimated to be 3.2%, 3.7% and 3.9%, respectively, in accordance with potential growth output of 3-4%.

For the longer term, the potential growth of the economy should be higher than this level, assistant governor for the monetary policy group Piti Disyatat said at an analysts’ meeting on Monday. Continued …

8.1 million Thais are poor, 4.4 million below poverty line

More than 8.1 million Thais are poor, including 4.4 million living below the poverty line, according to the latest report by The Office of the National Economics and Social Development Council (NESDC).

The report on the poverty situation in Thailand in 2021, released this year, stated that the number of people who are below the poverty line is a decrease from 2020, when 4.7 million such people were recorded. The report attributed the reduction to the economic stimulus schemes, rolled out to ease the financial burden on poorer people.

As income is not the only factor that reflects the poverty situation in Thailand, the NESDC has used the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which identifies four dimensions of poverty; education, healthy living, quality of living and financial stability. Continued …

State agencies prep new ‘gifts’

Government agencies including the Finance Ministry are expected to propose measures to ease the cost of living for consumers and businesses, aiming to stimulate domestic consumption via “New Year’s gifts”, for cabinet consideration today, says a ministry source who requested anonymity.

The ministry will propose to the cabinet extension of the reduced jet fuel excise tax for another six months to support the airline and tourism sectors, the source said.

The current measure runs from July 1 to Dec. 31. It lowers the excise tax on jet fuel to 0.20 baht per liter from the original 4.726 baht to help local airlines ease operating costs amid the impact of the pandemic. Continued …

The Wai Mei Dat e-waste recycling facility in the Chachoengsao’s Plaeng Yao district about 100 kilometers east of Bangkok

Food chain contamination found near e-waste processing facilities in Thailand

Recently published analysis confirmed that communities in Chachoengsao province face severe food chain contamination with some of the world’s most toxic chemicals caused by improper electronic waste processing.

Samples of analyzed soil, sediments, and duck eggs, common food rich in nutrients, contained record levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). The dioxin level in duck eggs from a village near an e-waste recycling factory in Moo 9, Khao Hin Son, is the 10th highest ever measured level in poultry eggs in Asia, and the second highest level measured in eggs from Thailand.

The researchers collected samples of soil, sediments, dust, and free-range duck eggs at sites near factories handling electronic waste. Contamination with POPs was revealed at all three locations researched in this study – Nong Khok village in Moo 9, Khao Hin Son subdistrict, close to an e-waste recycling factory owned by Supcharoen Recycle Co.; an area in Moo 1, Khao Hin Son, close to an e-waste recycling factory owned by CT Steel Co., Ltd.; and an illegal waste dump site in Hat Nang Kaeo subdistrict, Prachinburi province. Continued …

Food delivery businesses face slump in demand next year

The research arm of Kasikornbank (KBank) expects the food delivery business sector in Thailand to slow down next year, in line with the situation in other countries as the Covid threat slowly ebbs.

A KResearch Center study, released on Monday, said that the food delivery business in Thailand next year would be valued at around 81 billion to 86 billion baht next year, a contraction of 0.8% to 6.5% compared to the value this year.

The center said the value would still be much higher than before the Covid pandemic. Continued …

Workers at the Tesco factory in Mae Sot on the Myanmar border

UK Tesco accused of using slave labor in Thailand

The UK’s Tesco supermarket chain is being accused of using slave labor in Thailand. According to a Guardian investigation, Burmese workers who made jeans for Tesco Lotus in Thailand, allegedly worked 99-hour weeks. And, their received wages were allegedly too low to make the cut legally. The investigation also found that their working conditions were considered quite harsh.

Tesco faces a landmark lawsuit in the UK from 130 former workers at VK Garment Factory, who are suing the mega-grocer for negligence and unjust enrichment. The workers made jeans and denim jackets for Tesco Lotus between 2017 and 2020. Continued …

Cops crack down on firearm traders

Police have launched crackdown operations on major online illegal gun traders and seized huge amounts of illegal firearms and ammunition worth about 50 million baht.

Police Gen. Roy Ingkapairoj, deputy national police chief, on Monday told a press briefing that the 4th operation unit was tipped off about the illegal online firearms trading by two Twitter users named “Los Santos” and “Texas Gun”.

An investigation showed the two Twitter accounts linked to a Line account named “Los Santos Shop” and a “lossantos.lnwshop.com” website, offering a range of firearms, including rifles, and ammunition. Continued … 

Nine provinces in southern Thailand suffer from flooding, three people die

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reports nine provinces in the south of Thailand are suffering from flooding as heavy rains continue. Three people have died in the floods.

The DDPM reports that monsoon rains have covered the Gulf of Thailand in the southern part of Thailand, causing heavy flooding from Dec. 17 until Dec. 20. Continued …

Thailand leads BBC travel destination poll

Thailand is viewed as the most popular destination to visit in Southeast Asia for visitors planning a trip from North America and Europe, according to a survey by BBC News.

All told, 57.4% of global respondents who are intending to travel to Southeast Asia said they would be likely to visit Thailand, more than any other country in the region, according to the survey of BBC Global Minds members.

Visitors to Southeast Asia are often experienced world travelers, looking for new and different experiences, the survey results found. Continued …

Anutin: Night venue hours ‘won’t be extended’

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Monday moved to assure concerned civic groups, saying the ministry is firmly opposed to the proposal that would see the opening hours of night entertainment venues extended by two hours.

Anutin gave his assurances to about 50 representatives of various civic groups who came to Government House on Monday to thank the ministry for prioritizing the public’s health and safety as the debate on extending the operating hours of bars and clubs across the country continues. Continued …

THAI plans more Europe, Japan flights

Thai Airways International (THAI) plans to add at least nine aircraft to its operational fleet in the first quarter of 2023 and will increase its flights to Europe and Japan to meet the rising demands of post-pandemic tourism, acting CEO Suvadhana Sibunruang said on Monday.

He said THAI would reinstate its three A330-300 and two B777-200ER jets, which were grounded due to the effects on the travel industry of the Covid-19 pandemic. All five aircraft are undergoing maintenance before returning to full service next year. Continued …

10 Best Thailand Resorts For Couples

Couples can enjoy luxury romantic getaways in Thailand, whether they’re planning a trip to the islands or staying in the heart of Bangkok for a weekend. These hotels and resorts are some of the top choices for amenities and romantic activities.

JW Marriott Khao Lok Resort and Spa, Phang Nga

Couples looking for a luxury getaway in Thailand will find everything they’re searching for in the JW Marriott Khao Lok Resort and Spa. This is a 5-star resort with stunning grounds and 10 restaurants to dine at on-site.

Guests also enjoy a variety of fun activities, including snorkeling, water sports, and access to a waterslide. The spa and wellness center is the ideal spot for a relaxing and romantic couples massage. Continued …

Tourists Leave Samui Island by Plane, as Boats are Banned from Leaving Ports

Tourists have had to leave Samui Island by plane, as boats are being banned from leaving ports.

The order restricting boats is to remain in effect with no new announcements. There are strong waves of up to four meters in the open sea in the Gulf of Thailand near Samui Island, Pha Ngan Island and Tao Island.

Thais and foreigners on Samui Island have had to change their plans by leaving Samui Island via Bangkok Airways at the Samui International Airport instead of by ferry. Continued …

H O T HIGH SEASON D I S C O U N T: 500 BAHT

  • Treat yourself. Get away for the day. Get a beach bed at our Anantasila beach ! 
  • You get a Big Beach Towel for the day
  • You get to use our facilities
  • You are welcome to splash around in our infinity pool
  • You can enjoy the beautiful Anantasila environment
  • You can use the 500 Baht as a credit in our restaurant or beach bar, for food and drinks, up to that 300 Baht

That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

Your deserve It!

Driver leaves Norwegian at gas station – ‘I thought he was sleeping in the back’

A Norwegian tourist found himself up the proverbial creek without a paddle yesterday afternoon.

He was on his way from Koh Chang to a hotel in Yannawa, Bangkok, in a hired car when the driver stopped to relieve himself at a gas station in Nong Ree subdistrict of Muang Chonburi.

The tourist used the opportunity to get out the back and buy some snacks at the shop. Continued …

Body of Canadian man washes up on beach in southern Thailand

The body of a 63-year-old Canadian man washed up on a beach on the mainland of Surat Thani province in southern Thailand yesterday evening. He went missing from Koh Pha Ngan island six days ago.

At 8pm, officers from Khanom Police Station rushed to Khanom Beach after a decaying body was discovered on the shore in front of the Khanom Power Plant in Thong Nian subdistrict.

Police identified the man as Albert Floyd Newotta, of Canadian nationality, who was last seen at Phangan Villa Hotel in Koh Pha Nganon Tuesday, Dec. 13. Continued …

China’s Covid surge hits trading floors, finance hub

Covid-19 is sweeping through trading floors in Beijing and spreading fast in the financial hub of Shanghai, with illness and absence thinning already light trade and forcing regulators to cancel a weekly meeting vetting public share sales.

Many banks and asset managers have dusted off plans devised to cope with previous Covid crises, injecting another layer of unpredictability into currency and stock markets, where the outlook is clouded by a rocky exit from strict health curbs.

With mass testing halted after China abruptly dropped its zero-Covid policy earlier this month, official data no longer reliably capture new case numbers. Internal surveys by several big asset managers and banks suggest more than half of their employees in Beijing, the epicenter of the virus surge, have tested positive. Continued … 

For more information, email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Indonesia’s foreign retirees fear being driven out by new visa scheme

Indonesia’s bid to increase international investments with a so-called second-home visa for the wealthy may drive out foreign retirees who have long considered the country their only home. Continued …

House Jan. 6 panel recommends DOJ prosecute Trump on four charges

The U.S. House of Representatives committee investigating the Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021, voted Monday to recommend the Justice Department bring criminal charges against Donald Trump. The committee report documented how Trump repeatedly tried to overturn the 2020 election, pressured state officials, assembled a mob and sent it to the Capitol to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power. Continued …

Five takeaways from congressional report calling for Trump charges

Much of the detail on Donald Trump’s alleged misconduct aired Monday by the panel probing the 2021 U.S. Capitol insurrection had already been made public. But a summary of the upcoming report on the congressional committee’s findings was full of tidbits that had not come out before. Continued …

Dutch PM apologizes for 250 years of slavery

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Monday officially apologized for 250 years of the Netherlands’ involvement in slavery, calling it a “crime against humanity”. Continued …

France bans disposable packaging, utensils in fast-food restaurants

Fast-food eateries in France will soon no longer be able to use disposable containers, plates, cups and tableware for clients eating in, the latest measure from a 2020 law to combat waste and encourage recycling. Continued …

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