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Tuesday’s news-March 12

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Today’s news: Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flights go daily/Hua Hin love triangle tragedy/SOS Triumph in Hua Hin/Master Thai in 6 months/Bangkok braces for extreme heat/Thai Muslims Begin Ramadan/Asia’s Best Female Chef/Epic journey to see the sea/Conscript’s life as officer’s servant/Man survives black bear attack/Gold prices hit new high/New Vision for Thailand/Economy: Threat from China part of a wider problem/139 Million Baht To Fund World Tours/Progress on 6 Thai FTAs/Shaping Thailand’s retail industry/Tourism: Discounted domestic flights for Songkran/Extra flights scheduled during Songkran/Alcohol Sales Guidelines for Songkran/Suvarnabhumi ranked seventh/Thailand Experience: Empowering indigenous communities/Cannabis and Thai Traditional Medicine/Bangkok Renaissance/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Hua Hin train schedule/Market Village bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flights go daily May 4

Air Asia has announced a significant expansion of its flights between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai. Travelers can look forward to daily flights from May 4 through June 14.

Flights will depart from Chiang Mai to Hua Hin at 10:20am and from Hua Hin to Chiang Mai at 12:20pm every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Continued …

Hua Hin love triangle tragedy: Millionaire and secretary’s deaths linked to affair

The police suspect that a love affair and jealousy may have been the motives behind the deaths of a millionaire and her secretary in a house located in the Hua Hin district of Prachuap Kiri Khan province. This suspicion arose after the secretary’s friend informed officers that the two individuals shared a relationship that extended beyond mere colleagues and friends.

The dead bodies of two Thai women were found in the bedroom of Suphatta Suwantanon’s residence in Hua Hin. Suphatta, aged 64 and a millionaire, had suffered a gunshot wound to her chest. Meanwhile, her 46-year-old secretary, Suphawadee Hilt, was also discovered deceased, having tragically taken her own life by shooting herself in the head. Continued …

Scholars of Sustenance Foundation’s Triumph in Nourishing Hua Hin

In a remarkable showcase of resilience and community solidarity, Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) Foundation’s Hua Hin branch, established amid the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic in December 2020, has not only weathered the storm but emerged as a beacon of hope for thousands.

IVL Foundation’s unwavering commitment as the principal sponsor has played a critical role in catalyzing the success of SOS Hua Hin’s transformative food rescue operations. Continued …

How to learn and master Thai language in 6 months

Mastering any foreign language, especially a tonal language like Thai, in six months may seem like an impossible goal. You have to learn a thousand new things, from the phonetics and grammar rules to phrases and idioms.

But with dedication, consistency, and the right approach, it’s entirely possible to achieve a high level of proficiency in Thai within this time frame. Here are tips and hacks to help you get better at learning and mastering Thai in six months or fewer. Continued …

Bangkok braces for extreme heat and thunderstorms

Intense heat and thunderstorms are predicted to hit Bangkok and 22 provinces, with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issuing a warning. High waves over 2 meters are expected in the southern seas, prompting caution for mariners starting today.

As Thailand braces for a scorching day accompanied by potential thunderstorms, the TMD cautioned residents in Bangkok and 22 other provinces to prepare for extreme heat and volatile weather conditions. Continued …

Thai Muslims Begin Ramadan today

Thai Muslims began observing Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, today. Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide. It is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and fasting from dawn to dusk.

During this holy month, Muslims focus on prayer, charity, and abstaining from worldly pleasures to strengthen their connection with God. Continued …

Chef Pam of ‘Potong’ wins Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024

Thai gastronomic innovator and restaurant owner Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij has been named Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024 in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards.

Pichaya said she wants her win to inspire young female chefs to break barriers. She will receive her award at the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants ceremony on March 26 in Seoul. Continued …

70-year-old’s 600km epic journey to see the sea

A 70-year-old Thai man was so determined to enjoy the seaside for the first time in his life that he successfully rode his sidecar motorcycle over 600 kilometers from the Isaan province of Ubon Ratchathani to Koh Chang, an island in the eastern province of Trat.

The story of Loi Tapila came to light when a reporter in the Isaan province of Surin encountered him resting on his old sidecar motorcycle at a petrol station on March 7. The reporter spoke to Loi and discovered that he was on a journey from his home province of Ubon Ratchathani to see the sea for the first time in Koh Chang. Continued …

Video shows conscript’s life as officer’s servant

A former conscript’s video depicting his navy life as an officer’s indentured house servant, including washing his wife’s underwear, has drawn grudging confirmation from the Defense Ministry.

The video was initially dismissed as a possible attempt to discredit the armed forces ahead of the annual compulsory draft in April, at a time when there are demands to end conscription. Continued …

Email: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Thai man survives black bear attack during ant egg hunt

A Thai man survived an attack by an Asian black bear while hunting for ant eggs within the Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary in the Isaan province of Buriram on the weekend.

The victim’s wife shared details of the incident on Sunday. She explained that her 60-year-old husband, Phumin Joysaku, entered the forest in the morning to search for ant eggs. The eggs and pupae of weaver ants are also known as Khai Mod Daeng in Thai. Continued …

Thailand’s gold prices hit new high, breaking 37,000 baht mark

Gold prices continue to surge in Thailand, with the cost of gold ornaments breaking the 37,000 baht mark for the first time. The Gold Traders Assn. (GTA) reported a significant increase compared to the previous day’s rate, where the selling price of gold ornaments reached 37,100 baht per baht-weight as of the latest update on March 11.

The domestic buying price for gold bars was set at 36,500 baht per baht-weight, with the selling price slightly higher at 36,600 baht. The price for gold ornaments was quoted at a buying rate of 35,838.24 baht and a selling rate of 37,100 baht. In the international market, the gold spot price stood at $2,180 per ounce. Continued …

A New Vision for Thailand: Interview with Pita

Pita Limjaroenrat was the prime ministerial candidate of the Move Forward Party in Thailand’s May 2023 elections. Under Pita, Move Forward captured the majority of votes and seats in the Thai parliament, but institutional barriers prevented his ascension to prime minister.

Nevertheless, his vision for a demilitarized, demonopolized, and decentralized Thailand continues to resonate. Pita is a graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School and MIT Sloan School of Management, and he was named to the TIME100 Next List in 2023. Continued …

Threat from contaminated fruit and vegetables from China part of a wider problem

Thailand is making plans to shift its trade focus away from China and toward India in the longer term. It comes as news emerged this week of contaminated fruit and vegetables being dumped on Thai markets from China. Many of the substandard products are for sale at a fraction of the cost offered by Thai producers and farmers.

Similarly, Thailand’s manufacturing sector especially in fashion and furniture, is being decimated by China. Recent figures show only a 30%-45% utilization of factory capacity in these sectors. The current predicament raises sharp questions about the Thai government’s trade and economic development policies over the last 10 years. In short, these can be directly linked to the challenges being faced today by farmers and small business concerns. Continued …

PM Budgeted 139 Million Baht To Fund World Tours

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been given a sum of 139 million baht in government funding at his disposal with which he may travel the world over for the current fiscal year, according to a government official.

The funding is primarily earmarked for planned expenditure of the Pheu Thai-backed prime minister’s official trips overseas throughout fiscal 2024 for reported purposes of propagating and promoting Thailand’s potentials in international trade, investment and tourism. Continued …

Progress on 6 Thai FTAs now under negotiation

Thailand is negotiating 11 free trade agreements, including five related to upgrading existing FTAs, along with developing six new FTAs, as the kingdom aims to expand trade and investment with key trading partner countries near and distant.

According to information from the Department of Trade Negotiations, Ministry of Commerce, Thailand appears to have successfully negotiated and implemented a total of 15 FTAs with trading partners from 18 countries or territories. These include the ASEAN member countries, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, India, Peru, Chile, Hong Kong SAR, and Sri Lanka. Continued …

Wallaya Chirathivat shapes Thailand’s retail industry

Thailand’s retail industry has been dramatically shaped by the innovative leadership of Wallaya Chirathivat, the president and chief executive officer of Central Pattana Plc (CPN).

As the head of one of the country’s most influential retail and property development firms, Wallaya’s strategies have led to significant advancements in the retail sector and her achievements have been recognized both locally and globally. Continued …

Discounted domestic flights for Songkran announced

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) announced that a discount of roughly 20% will be applied to early morning and late-night domestic flights during the Songkran holiday. This move is aimed at providing an economical travel option for all holidaymakers.

Sarun Benjanirat, the deputy director-general of CAAT, disclosed yesterday that the initiative is in response to the call by Transport Minister Suriya Juangruangreangkit for reduced airfares during holiday and festive periods. Continued …

Extra flights scheduled for passenger convenience during Songkran

Sarun Benjanirat, deputy director of the Civil Aviation Office of Thailand (CAAT), has announced that 38 additional flights have been scheduled to transport passengers during the upcoming Songkran festival in response to the directive of Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit to implement short-term measures to counteract high airfare prices. Special promotions for airfares on all domestic routes will also be offered.

CAAT has received confirmation from six airlines indicating that they have planned flight schedules and requested permission to operate these flights, he added. It is anticipated that tickets for special flights during Songkran will go on sale tomorrow (March 12). Continued …

Health Ministry Sets Alcohol Sales Guidelines for Songkran

The Ministry of Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew chaired a meeting of the Alcohol Control Committee, approving guidelines for alcohol control during the 2024 Songkran Festival. Spanning 21 days, the festival aims to boost the economy and ensure safety by creating alcohol-free water play zones and enforcing strict laws.

The initiative addresses the main cause of road accidents during Songkran: drunk driving. Last year, Songkran saw 4,340 injuries and fatalities, with over 502 involving youths under 20. Continued …

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi ranked seventh in luxury airport rankings

Travel magazine and website Travel + Leisure ranked Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok as the seventh most luxurious airport in the world. It was also rated second in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Financial information and research website Business Financing recently launched the best and worst airports in the world ranking in February this year. In the ranking, two Bangkok airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, were ranked among the worst in the world according to the opinions of business travelers from around the world. Continued …

Empowering indigenous communities through coffee

It was among the indigenous cultures of the mountains of Thailand, that the social enterprise idea was born. Hence Akha Ama Coffee, a coffee roastery and shop in Chiang Mai that only sells coffee from indigenous communities, with whom it trades directly.

The manager, Lee Ayu, is not just a roaster but also a social worker who strives to uplift his community by supporting sustainable agriculture and empowering farmers. Continued …

History of Cannabis and Thai Traditional Medicine

On June 9, 2022, Thailand made headlines as it took a bold step toward embracing the therapeutic potential of cannabis by enabling access to it for medical use. This monumental decision ushered in a new era of possibilities for alternative medicine in the country. However, as of February 2024, the landscape is evolving once again as the nation seeks to enact a new cannabis bill, one that would explicitly prohibit the recreational use of cannabis.

But did you know that cannabis has been a big part of traditional Thai medicine for centuries? Yes, during the time of King Narai the Great of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, cannabis, known locally as “ganja”, was a big deal in Thai traditional medicine. It was used as an ingredient in various traditional medicines until it was criminalized in 1934. Continued …

Bangkok Renaissance

Change is afoot in Bangkok. Yes, traffic still occasionally grinds to a standstill during rush hour, but huge investment in its public transport system means more people are leaving their cars at home.

The MRT’s Yellow Line, which connects Lat Phrao (a neighborhood popular with backpackers) to Samrong in eastern Bangkok, opened in June 2023, while the MRT’s Pink Line, connecting the riverside district of Nonthaburi to Bangkok’s Min Buri district, launched at the end of the year. Getting around Bangkok using public transport has been relatively easy in recent years, thanks not only to the MRT but also the BTS Skytrain. 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

bangkok, cha am, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-March 5

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Today’s news: Feedback/Mid-sea airport for Hua Hin/Speed up work on Rama II/Bus and van station at Market Village/How to learn Thai/Cha Am Crab Tasting Festival/Hua Hin Heroes Golf Charity Cup/Checks ordered on foreigners in Phuket/Swiss man’s visa revocation requested/Keep beaches public/7-year-old twins wed/Economy: Thai economy set for revival/Headline CPI falls/Activists Urge Reject Land Bridge/Loan rejections soar/Phuket money laundering suspicions/Foreign currency deposits surge/Kia considers EV factory in Thailand/Tourism: Hua Hin’s last tricycle rider/BluPort event for Songkran/British Airways resumes flights to Bangkok/THAI to fly to Perth/Environment: Chiang Rai hits highest air pollution/’Saraburi Sandbox’/Waste-to-energy power plants/Thailand Experience: Charmed by a City/International news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Will Hua Hin become the ‘new Pattaya’?

“Even if you do manage to negotiate Rama II road: the beach is  cluttered with food stalls, dirty in places and dangerous due to the horses, the sea unusable in places due to kiteboarders too near the shore, and jetskis; the proliferation of ‘entertainment’ areas such as ‘Walking Street’, Soi 94/’Wonderland’, Soi 80; wooden pier area a ‘ghost town’; overcrowded with visitors previously associated with Pattaya; clogged with traffic at all times.” – AB

Mid-sea airport for Hua Hin would cater to the rich

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming Thailand into a global aviation hub. The plans involve a nationwide overhaul and expansion of Thailand’s airport infrastructure to support both domestic and international travel.

And while Hua Hin’s existing airport wasn’t mentioned in the plans specifically, another interesting development for the region was. Part of this vision is the development of a state-of-the-art mid-sea airport in Hua Hin, designed to cater exclusively to high-net-worth individuals traveling on private jets. Continued …

Contractors ordered to speed up work on Rama II

Contractors building the elevated motorway on Rama II Road, which has been the source of notorious bottlenecks, have been ordered to complete the job no later than mid-next year.

Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit summoned the contractors to a meeting on Monday to discuss the cause of their construction delays after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he wanted the contractors to clear the road before the Songkran holidays. Continued …

New bus and van station at Market Village

The new bus and van station at Market Village Hua Hin is now open. Operated by JKP Transports, it is located in the outside car park next to the shopping center.

The waiting area is spacious and open, capable of accommodating many passengers. It offers complete facilities, including restrooms, mobile charging stations, and soon will include a MaxMart by PT and a Thai coffee shop, along with a pet service store. Continued …

How to learn and master Thai language in 6 months

Mastering any foreign language, especially a tonal language like Thai, in six months may seem like an impossible goal. You have to learn a thousand new things, from the phonetics and grammar rules to phrases and idioms.

But with dedication, consistency, and the right approach, it’s entirely possible to achieve a high level of proficiency in Thai within this time frame. Here are tips and hacks to help you get better at learning and mastering Thai in six months or fewer. Continued …

Cha-Am Crab Tasting Festival to be held March 9-16

The 9th Cha-Am Crab Tasting Festival showcasing fresh, high-quality crabs directly from the sea in Cha Am is scheduled for March 9-16 at the Cha Am beach viewpoint.

The festival was formally announced during a press conference led by Nattachai Nampoolsuksan, the governor of Phetchaburi Province, at the Raya Resort Cha Am. Continued …

Hua Hin Heroes Golf Charity Cup raises Bt1.3 million for Thap Thai school

The inaugural Hua Hin Heroes Golf Charity Cup presented by Orchid Palm Homes has raised 1.3 million THB for the Ban Wang Khoi school in Thap Thai, Hua Hin.

The tournament, which was sponsored by Hua Hin Health Park and Misthos Group, saw over 150 players take part and was held at the Pineapple Valley Hua Hin Golf Club. Continued …

Checks ordered on foreigners in Phuket for possible links to organized crime

The Phuket provincial administration has instructed all district officers to check the backgrounds and conduct of foreigners living on the resort island, including the Swiss man who allegedly assaulted a female Thai doctor, to ascertain whether they are members of extortion gangs or involved in organized crime.

Phuket Deputy Gov. Adul Chuthong said that Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered an investigation of foreign criminal gangs in Phuket, following the incident last week when the Swiss man, identified only as David, allegedly assaulted a female Thai doctor for allegedly trespassing on his property on Yamu Beach, when she sat on the staircase of his rented seaside villa. Continued … 

Swiss man’s visa revocation requested

The commander of Region 8 Police in Phuket, Lt. Gen. Surapong Thanomjit has announced that Phuket police have made an official request to the Immigration Police to revoke the visa of 45-year-old Urh ‘David’ Fehr – he’s the Swiss citizen who is alleged to have attacked a female Thai doctor at the beachfront step of his villa in Cape Yamu.

The commander deemed the Swiss man to be a threat to the safety and order of the people under Article 12 of the Immigration Act. Continued …

Keep beaches public

The public’s reaction to a foreigner accused of kicking a female doctor who sat stargazing in front of his swanky Phuket villa is a reflection of the deep frustration over the unchecked tourism and land development on the tourist island.
The situation regarding the use of land that helped lead to this incident is not uncommon. Beaches along Thailand’s coastal provinces – except areas situated in national parks – are public spaces accessible by any individuals, but it has become a near normal practice that hotels and some private residences try to restrict the public’s use of beaches. Continued …

7-year-old twins wed in Ayutthaya

A traditional Thai belief led to a unique wedding ceremony in Ayutthaya where seven-year-old twins were married in a ritual to ward off bad luck. The village of Kanon Luang in Bang Pa-In district became the scene of an elaborate wedding, uniting Achiraya Penguin Kongsakul and Asawin Plawan Kongsakul, both seven years old.

The twins’ parents adhered to ancient customs rooted in the belief that marrying off male-female twins when they turn six or seven years old ensures good health and happiness. Continued …

Thai economy set for revival amid global uncertainties

The Federation of Thai Capital Market Organizations (FETCO) anticipates a revival of the Thai economy in the latter half of the year, supported by potential interest rate reductions. This optimistic outlook emerges amid global economic uncertainties, with possible recessions in the UK and Japan, and China grappling with a prolonged property crisis.

FETCO Chairman Kobsak Pootrakool says that the global economy could bounce back once central banks commence lowering their interest rates, which may occur in the coming months. Continued …

Headline CPI falls less than expected

Thailand’s headline consumer price index (CPI) fell 0.77% in February from a year earlier, versus a 1.11% year-on-year drop the previous month, the Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday.

The figure compared with a forecast fall of 0.8% for February in a Reuters poll. The core CPI increased 0.43% year-on-year in February, versus a forecast rise of 0.5%. Continued …

Activists Urge UN, Embassies to Reject Thailand’s Land Bridge Project

A coalition of local activists has taken a bold step by petitioning the United Nations and several foreign embassies to reject Thailand’s ambitious land bridge megaproject, citing significant human rights and environmental concerns.

Members of the Patoh Conservation Network, Rak Ranong, and the Council of Southern People have come together to voice their apprehensions about the project. According to Somchok Jungjaturant, a representative from the Patoh Conservation Network, the project lacks transparency and poses a threat to the environment and the principles of human rights. Continued …

Loan rejections soar for Thai homes under 3 million baht

The Thai housing market is facing a significant challenge, as a growing number of loan applications for homes priced below 3 million baht are being rejected. According to the Housing Finance Assn., the rejection rate has spiked to 50%, highlighting the vulnerability of this segment despite its substantial market size.

The association’s secretary-general and chairman of the executive board, Alangkot Boonmasuk, pointed out that several factors contribute to this situation. The high household debt level, which stands above 90% of the country’s GDP, coupled with declining incomes and rising living costs, have all weakened the purchasing power for residential properties. Continued …

Phuket real estate boom sparks money laundering suspicions

Phuket’s property market is experiencing an unwarranted surge in prices, prompting the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to consider looking into the possibility of foreign mafia using real estate to launder money. Over the past couple of years, real estate prices in Phuket have risen by 15%-20%, coinciding with the growing trend of demand from foreign nationals.

Maetapong Upatising, president of Phuket’s Real Estate Assn., attributes this surge to several factors. For instance, he said, after the Russian-Ukraine war began, Phuket has seen an influx of affluent Russians opting to invest in villas and condominiums. Continued …

Foreign currency deposits surge in Thailand

The past year has seen a significant upturn in foreign currency deposits (FCDs), spurred by appealing interest rates due to global rate hikes.

According to data from the Deposit Protection Agency (DPA), member financial institutions observed a surge in FCDs to a total value of 812 billion baht (US$22 billion) by November 2023, up from an earlier figure of 640 billion baht (US$17.89 billion). Continued …

Kia considers setting up electric vehicle factory in Thailand

Korean car manufacturer Kia is exploring the possibility of setting up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in Thailand, as per an announcement made by Kia Sales (Thailand). The move comes in response to the rapidly expanding EV market in the country.

If approved by Kia Corp., the parent company that falls under the Hyundai Motor Group, Thailand would become the second Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member to host a Kia car plant, after Malaysia, said Jun Oh Lee, Kia sales (Thailand) president. Continued …

Meet Uncle Tee, 72, Hua Hin’s last tricycle rider

In Hua Hin, recognized by many for its historic charm and as Thailand’s oldest seaside resort, one man pedals against the tide of modernity.

At 72, Jaran Promhom, affectionately known as Uncle Tee, is the last remaining tricycle rider in this ever-growing city. His story is not just one of personal endurance but also a living testament to a fading profession that once thrived in the streets of Hua Hin. Continued …

BluPort Hua Hin plans major event for Songkran

BluPort Hua Hin has announced that it will host its “April Splash event for Songkran Festival 2024”.

This year, BluPort Hua Hin is aligning with the government’s policy by organizing activities that fuse ancient Thai culture with Hua Hin’s seaside atmosphere. The event will transform the area in front of BluPort Hua Hin into a hub for cultural creativity and traditional water splashing fun, designed to appeal to both Thai and international tourists. Continued …

British Airways resumes flights to Bangkok

Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are back on the British Airways map – but the link to the Thai capital is much diminished compared with the pre-Covid era.

Starting with the winter 2024-25 schedules in late October, BA Boeing 777s will depart three times a week from London Gatwick to Bangkok. Previously, the airline flew daily from Heathrow. First class has also been dropped, though it remains available on BA’s competitors from Heathrow to the Thai capital. Continued …

THAI to fly to Perth, Colombo and Kerala

Thai Airways International (THAI) will begin services to Perth in Western Australia and to Colombo in Sri Lanka on March 31, and to Cochin airport, which serves Kochi city in Kerala, southwestern India, on April 2.

Chief Commercial Officer Korakot Chatasingha said on Monday that the service from Bangkok to Perth would be daily. The airline already flies to Melbourne and Sydney in Australia. Continued …

Chiang Rai hits highest air pollution levels in Thailand

Air pollution has reached critical levels in the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand, with 36 provinces reporting particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations exceeding the safe standard, according to a recent report from the Air Pollution Control Department (APCD) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

The province of Chiang Rai recorded the highest levels in the country. Over the next seven days, from March 5 to March 11, an increase in PM2.5 levels is anticipated across the north. Continued … 

‘Saraburi Sandbox’: Thailand’s pioneer Net Zero urban ecosystem

The governor of Saraburi Province has joined hands with the Thai Cement Manufacturers Assn. (TCMA), the Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO) to build on the progress of the “Saraburi Sandbox” connecting the industrial, agricultural and community sectors, paving the way for the net zero emission urban ecosystem with Saraburi as a model city for Thailand.

Bancha Chaowarin, governor of Saraburi Province, said that Saraburi Sandbox was a testament to the success of the public-private-people partnership (PPP) and has been seeing continuous progress since the declaration of the joint commitment in August last year. Continued …

Four waste-to-energy power plants in the offing

Thachang Green Energy (TGE), the SET-listed biomass power plant developer and operator, is preparing to build four waste-to-energy power plants this year to boost its revenue once public hearings on the projects are completed.

The power plants, which use community waste as fuel, can help local officials deal with garbage, but their construction is first required to pass public consultation. Continued …

Charmed by a City Off Thailand’s Beaten Path

Thailand is renowned among hard-charging tourists for nightlife in Bangkok, full moon parties on Koh Phangan island and hedonistic walking streets in Pattaya. It’s also a magnet for the bohemian and wellness crowds who flock to the mountain destinations of Chiang Mai and Pai.

But mostly ignored by foreign tourists is Lampang, in northern Thailand. This charming, riverside city of about 90,000 people has preserved the historic architecture and stately squares from its days as a major city in the ancient Lanna kingdom and a hub in the teak lumber trade. Continued …

Jupiter moon thought to be habitable may be oxygen starved

Under its bright, frosty shell, Jupiter’s moon Europa is thought to harbor a salty ocean, making it a world that might be one of the most habitable places in our solar system, but life as we know it needs oxygen and and it’s an open question whether Europa’s ocean has it. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586

hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Friday’s News-July 14

  • Move Forward Party’s Thai PM Candidate Pita Fails First Round of Voting/
  • Thailand is facing a deep political crisis as Pita loses key vote/
  • Police Prepare For Nationwide Protests/
  • Hua Hin Heroes Foundation to help those in need/
  • Heavy rain forecast for most on the country from Sunday/
  • Comprehensive Guide for foreigners interested in studying Thai Language/
  • Pattaya residents urge authorities to put an end to foreign motorbike gangs/
  • Economy: Election delay poses risks to the economy/Consumers upbeat for 13th month/
  • Tourism: Tourism operators jittery over possible election protests/Thailand’s new weed laws draw tourists from across Asia/
  • International: Record-breaking heat bakes US, Europe, China/Europe braces for ‘Cerberus’ heatwave: Italy issues heatstroke red alerts/Rain-ravaged India grappling with floods and landslides/Hollywood actors strike, shutting down the US film, TV industry/
  • 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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Move Forward Party’s Thai PM Candidate Pita Fails First Round of Voting

Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party, has failed to gather sufficient votes of 375 from the joint sitting Parliament, resulting in him failing the first round of the prime ministerial vote.

Pita needed at least 375 out of 749 votes from the upper and lower houses to take the Thai prime minister office. However, the official results are that the PM-hopeful was only able to gather 324 votes, which was not half of the parliament. Moreover, only 674 parliamentarians were present at the time of voting. Continued …

Thailand is facing a deep political crisis as Pita loses key vote

Thai politics took a step further into what could be a serious political crisis on Thursday when parliament failed to elect list MP Pita Limjaroenrat as Thailand’s 30th prime minister, even after he was the only nominee before parliament supported by an eight-party coalition representing 72% of voters and 62% of seats in the House of Representatives.

In an often ill-tempered and fiery debate, opposition to Pita came from the Senate and MPs aligned with the outgoing government, which decisively lost the May 14 general election. Continued …

Police Prepare For Nationwide Protests

National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittipraphat early this morning ordered police nationwide to prepare for possible protests, with Parliament strongly guarded following prime minister-designate Pita Limjaroenrat failing to get enough votes to take the helm of the government at a joint House/senate meeting yesterday.

The pro-Pita votes cast by the lawmakers yesterday only accounted for 324 votes, 13 of which came from senators, but it was 51 votes short of a minimum of 375 accounting for more than half the combined total of MPs and senators as required by law. Continued … 

Hua Hin Heroes Foundation to help those in need

The Hua Hin Heroes Foundation was formally launched on Thursday. The foundation is an independent charity organization founded by a team of young Hua Hin-based entrepreneurs, with the mission to bring together ideas, people, and resources to provide assistance to those in need.

Adam Clark, president of the foundation, brings his expertise in financial services and business, while Henrik Fagersson, vice president, is an Osteopath D.O and the owner/founder of Spine Clinic. Ploy Sakdapheysiri, the co-founder of the foundation, is the owner of Wine Bubble and Berry Club & Wholesale.

The foundation’s first major initiative is expected to be one of the biggest golf charity events of the year. – HHT

Heavy rain forecast for most on the country from Sunday

Most of Thailand will see heavy rain from Sunday to next Thursday (July 16-20) due to the influence of a strong monsoon trough, the Thai Meteorological Department said in a weather warning issued today.

The department said that from Sunday onward, the strong monsoon trough will move from the north to the northeast and the upper central region of Thailand before turning into an active low-pressure cell over the upper South China Sea. Meanwhile, the rather strong southwest monsoon prevails across the Andaman Sea, the south and the Gulf. Continued …

Comprehensive Guide for foreigners interested in studying Thai Language

Thailand has a lot of charms to indulge in, but one of the appeals one cannot deny is the “Thai language”, which, in any shape or form, is so melodious and pleasing to the ear.

“Lately, we are seeing more and more people from many countries around the world become interested in learning the Thai language. With this booming interest comes the advent of many things: the digital world, the end of language barriers, easier travel, the export of goods and drama series, and various soft power trends,” said Assistant Professor Kiat Thepchuaysuk, irector of the Center for Thai as a Foreign Language (CTFL), Chulalongkorn University. Continued …

Pattaya residents urge authorities to put an end to foreign motorbike gangs

Residents of tourist city Pattaya in Chonburi province have urged police to investigate gangs of motorcycle riders in the sois off South Pattaya Road in Bang Lamung district, whose behavior at night has become a noisy nuisance.

The gangs, mostly made up of Arabian tourists aged 17 to 25, have been racing bikes at high speed in Soi VC Residence Hotel and Soi Yensabai from around midnight onward, a Pattaya resident said Thursday. Continued …

Election delay poses risks to the economy

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) expects a prolonged delay in the selection of a prime minister and formation of a new government, leading to protests that, if violent, will significantly affect tourism revenue, causing a loss of 500 billion baht, or a one percentage point decline in GDP.

Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the UTCC, said on Thursday the vote to select the prime minister is considered a crucial indicator of Thailand’s economic recovery, citing recent business surveys by the university that reflect concerns about the prolonged formation of the government, which could delay the implementation of new economic policies for recovery. Continued …

Consumers upbeat for 13th month

Consumer confidence rose for a 13th straight month in June and posted the highest level in 40 months since March 2020, driven by a resilient tourism sector and increasing agricultural product prices. However, there is still concern about uncertainty in the political arena, said the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

The UTCC reported yesterday the consumer confidence index rose to 56.7 in June, up from 55.1 in May, 55 in April, 53.8 in March, 52.6 in February and 51.7 in January. Continued …

Tourism operators jittery over possible election protests

Tourism operators are worried about possible protests that could harm the image of the country, while hoping a government is formed as soon as possible.

Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, president of the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA), said if there are any protests following yesterday’s vote for prime minister, they should be peaceful demonstrations the authorities monitor without violence to avoid creating negative perceptions among the international community. Continued …

Thailand’s new weed laws draw tourists from across Asia

A Japanese tourist reaches into a baggie of cannabis he’s just bought in a central Bangkok weed shop, pulling out a gram of buds to chop down in a small black grinder, before rolling them neatly into a joint.

Only the slight spillage onto the smoking lounge’s table — and his cough as he lights up and inhales deeply — betray the fact that until two weeks ago, he’d never tried marijuana. Continued …

Record-breaking heat bakes US, Europe, China

Summer has just begun in the Northern Hemisphere but a brutal heat wave is already gripping parts of Europe, China and the United States, where record temperatures expected this weekend are a stark illustration of the dangers of a warming climate. Continued …

Europe braces for ‘Cerberus’ heatwave: Italy issues heatstroke red alerts

A severe heatwave, dubbed “Cerberus” after the three-headed dog from Greek mythology, is spreading across Europe and North Africa, with possible record-breaking temperatures. Countries including Spain, France, Greece, Croatia, and Turkey, are anticipated to experience temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Continued …

Rain-ravaged India grappling with floods and landslides

India is grappling with a heightened disaster situation following continuous heavy rainfall that has led to extensive flooding and landslides. The fatality count has tragically risen to at least 66, with severe damage reported across multiple states in the northern part of the country. Continued …

Hollywood actors strike, shutting down the US film, TV industry

Hollywood actors have voted to strike, joining already-striking writers in a move that shuts down the production of countless movies and TV shows. Continued …

UPDATED! Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 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 once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. 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

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 Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590

 

 

bangkok, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-June 23

  • Explosion engulfs Hua Hin hotel, 500,000 THB worth of damage/
  • Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit through Sunday/
  • Common mistakes to avoid while learning Thai/
  • Healthcare staffing shortage tackled by Thai government with new strategy/
  • Overloaded Thai public health system sees exhausted doctors quit in droves/
  • Thai healthcare costs skyrocket/
  • ‘No serious quake threat to Thailand’ from major Sagaing Fault in Myanmar/
  • Algerian Man, Dressed as a Woman Arrested for visa overstay/
  • Thailand International Dog Show in Bangkok, July 6-9/
  • Durian lovers rejoice as prices plunge on surplus/
  • Economy: Examining Thailand’s Economic Revival and Investment Opportunities/Insights of five EV customer segments in Thailand/Thai village profits from hot-season tokay gecko trade exports to China/Bangkok Airways triumphs at World Airline Awards for 7th consecutive year/
  • Tourism: Thailand ranks second in global travel, Bangkok tops city list/Thai tourism-linked businesses experience booming growth amid economic recovery/Chinese tourism deterred by tourist scams in Thailand, says ATTA/World Hindu Congress to be hosted by Bangkok this year, boosting Thai tourism/
  • International: Titanic sub destroyed in ‘catastrophic implosion,’ all five aboard dead/Diabetes cases to double to 1.3 billion by 2050/US county sues oil companies for $51 billion over ‘Heat Dome’ disaster/€60 billion pledged to help Ukraine rebuild/
  • 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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Explosion engulfs Hua Hin hotel, 500,000 THB worth of damage

Pigeons were said to have caused a sudden explosion that led to a fire engulfing a hotel room in Hua Hin, resulting in damages amounting to half a million baht.

On Thursday afternoon, Lt. Col.Pichcha Rangleuan, deputy superintendent of Hua Hin Police Station, received a report regarding a fire incident at room number 164/5-6 of Sunny House, which is located adjacent to the railway, just off Soi 70. Continued … Pigeons were said to have caused a sudden explosion that led to a fire engulfing a hotel room in Hua Hin, resulting in damages amounting to half a million baht. Continued …

Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit through Sunday

Hua Hin’s renowned durian cultivation hub, Pa La U, is currently hosting the highly anticipated Pa La U durian and fruit festival.

This Ban Pa La-U Fruit and Good Products Expo, which is now in its 10th year, aims to celebrate the delectable fruit and showcases a wide range of local agricultural products. Continued …

 

Common mistakes to avoid while learning Thai

Oh, the joys of learning a new language! Thai is a fascinating language, filled with unique sounds, tones, and expressions that promise to make your learning experience an exciting adventure.

But, like any language, Thai comes with its fair share of challenges and common Thai language mistakes that might catch you off guard. No worries, though! Along with our friends at ALA Language School, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common mistakes you should steer clear of when learning Thai. Continued …

Healthcare staffing shortage tackled by Thai government with new strategy

The Public Health Ministry has laid out strategies to address the ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals in the nation’s state-operated medical sector. Within the next three years, these measures aim to expand the country’s cadre of medical personnel according to current legal parameters.

Government spokesperson Anucha Buraphachaisri indicated the interventions may result in a 40% increase in doctors and over a 50% surge in nursing staff by 2026. Continued …

Overloaded Thai public health system sees exhausted doctors quit in droves

Every year, hundreds of doctors leave the government sector after struggling under huge workloads for relatively low pay and with little prospect of promotion.

The numbers exiting the public health service are significant, given that the Public Health Ministry employs just 24,469 doctors. Over the past decade, around 450 doctors have left each year, along with at least 150 who have retired from public service. Continued …

Thai healthcare costs skyrocket

We all want good health and decent public health welfare. When we fall ill, the cures are also much more effective thanks to modern medical advancements. But the soaring costs of healthcare have made it beyond most people’s grasp.

Over the past two decades, global healthcare spending has more than doubled, skyrocketing from $4.2 trillion (145.8 trillion baht) in 2000 to an astounding $8.5 trillion in 2019. Continued …

‘No serious quake threat to Thailand’ from major Sagaing Fault in Myanmar

A major active fault in Myanmar could still trigger a 7.5-magnitude earthquake in 5-10 years, but will cause no serious damage to Thailand, the Mineral Resources Department said on Thursday.

Oranuch Lorpensri, director-general of the department, said the Sagaing Fault in Myanmar is still active and it could unleash enough power to trigger an earthquake with up to 7.5 magnitude in about 5-10 years. Continued …

Algerian Man, Dressed as a Woman Arrested for visa overstay

An Algerian man was arrested in Bangkok for 251 days of overstaying his legal visa after he allegedly tried to dress as a woman in order to avoid Thai Immigration officers.

Relevant officials from the Bangkok Thai Immigration Office arrested a 38-year-old Algerian man at a housing estate in Bueng Kum. Officers found that the Algerian man was dressed as a woman before they arrested him. Continued … 

Thailand International Dog Show in Bangkok, July 6-9

Attention to dog lovers! Don’t miss this year’s “21st Thailand International Dog Show2023” at IMPACT in Bangkok. Exclusive this year is a Grooming contest, with a dressing up theme of “Dog Show Sahara” and with more than 250 vendors.

The fair will be held from July 6-9 at building 5-6 at IMPACT. Continued …

Durian lovers rejoice as prices plunge on surplus

Singaporeans love durians. And this year, the spiky and pungent fruit is in such abundance that it can be found in claw machines, giving enthusiasts a chance to catch one for just a dollar.

A surplus in major producer Malaysia has pushed prices in the city-state down to levels never seen before. Premium varieties like Musang King were selling for as cheap as S$3 ($2.24) a kilogram earlier this month. Continued …

Examining Thailand’s Economic Revival and Investment Opportunities

Thailand’s GDP outlook is expected to grow between 2.7%-3.6% in 2023, an increase from 2.6% in 2022. Economic growth will be boosted by a recovering tourism industry and improving private consumption.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy was in a severe recession in 2020 due to the pandemic. GDP fell by 6.1% in that year, which represented Thailand’s largest contraction since the Asian financial crisis. Continued …

Insights of five EV customer segments in Thailand

Krungsri Auto, a leader in automotive finance under Bank of Ayudhya PCL., unveiled insights into five electric vehicle (EV) customer segments based on the consolidated data of its current EV loan portfolio, forecasting EV market growth, with potentials for automotive financing providers in responding to EV users’ needs and taping into their lifestyle in all dimensions. Insights of five EV customer segments gathered from real EV finance user behaviors are:

Segment 1 – A stylish executive with a stable income

This group is the early adopter of EVs, making up the largest proportion of current EV owners. An EV is their second car. They purchase a car at medium to high prices with high down payment and short-term loans. They value design and car brands and look for comprehensive products and services with financial advisers who can help make arrangements easy and hassle-free. Continued …

Thai village profits from hot-season tokay gecko trade exports to China

A Thai village is gaining lucrative income from capturing and processing tokay geckoes, generating hundreds of thousands of baht (US$2,860) per month during the hot season. In the northeast province of Nakhon Phanom, villagers from Ban Tal in Nah Wah district are seizing the opportunity to capture the amphibians that thrive in the warm weather.

Ban Tal Thai village, known as the mysterious village of unique seasonal occupations, has been relying on this profitable tokay gecko trade for over 30 years. Each hot season, from March to July, villagers capture geckoes and sell them to processing groups. The tokay geckoes are then dried and exported to China, where they are believed to be an ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine. Continued …

Bangkok Airways triumphs at World Airline Awards for 7th consecutive year

The World Airline Awards 2023 ceremony saw Bangkok Airways Public Co. retaining its resplendent position under the spotlight. The prestigious accolades of “The World’s Best Regional Airline” and “The Best Regional Airline in Asia” were pinned on this airline, marking its seventh year of triumph.

The presentation took place at the Paris Air Show, where Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, the airline’s president, and other management personnel, received the honors. Continued …

Thailand ranks second in global travel, Bangkok tops city list

Thailand tourism continues to thrive, as online travel platform Agoda recently revealed that the country holds the title of the second most popular destination for travelers worldwide, with Bangkok topping the list of favorite cities for global travelers.

Outperforming Thailand, Japan emerged as the leading destination for tourists during the same period. Early reopening of the country’s borders has undoubtedly contributed to Thailand’s tourism sector rebounding at a faster rate compared to other nations. Continued …

Thai tourism-linked businesses experience booming growth amid economic recovery

Amid escalating tourist arrivals and robust economic recovery, Thai tourism-associated enterprises have been reaping lucrative rewards, particularly in the fields of foreign exchange, travel agencies, tour guides, dining establishments, and the accommodation industry.

Such industries have experienced impressive growth within the initial five months of this year, as revealed by data garnered through the Business Development Department of the Commerce Ministry. Continued …

Chinese tourism deterred by tourist scams in Thailand, says ATTA

Fear of being conned by tourist scams poses a bigger concern to prospective Chinese tourists than Thailand’s political ambiguity, advises the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA). Given a sluggish economic recovery on the mainland, the Chinese tourism market could slightly be affected.

Calling for tougher safety measures, ATTA President, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn indicated that improving the country’s image and reassurances over touristic scams would encourage Chinese travelers. He also emphasized the necessity to uplift the quality of services provided in the tourism sector to boost Chinese tourism. Continued …

World Hindu Congress to be hosted by Bangkok this year, boosting Thai tourism

As a first, Bangkok is set to host the World Hindu Congress (WHC), set to take place from Nov. 24 to 26. Around 3,000 Hindus hailing from 60 different countries are anticipated to grace the event chaired by Susheel Kumar Saraff.

Themed “Jayasya Aayatnam Dharmah” or “Dharma,” the Abode of Victory,” the congress aims to celebrate the virtues of the religion and the triumphant strides of Hindus worldwide. Continued …

Titanic sub destroyed in ‘catastrophic implosion,’ all five aboard dead

A deep-sea submersible carrying five people on a voyage to the century-old wreck of the Titanic was found in pieces from a “catastrophic implosion” that killed everyone aboard, the U.S. Coast Guard said on Thursday, ending a multinational five-day search for the vessel. Continued …

Diabetes cases to double to 1.3 billion by 2050

The number of people suffering from diabetes worldwide will more than double to 1.3billion by 2050, driven by structural racism and gaping inequality between countries, new research predicted today. Continued …

US county sues oil companies for $51 billion over ‘Heat Dome’ disaster

A county in the northwestern state of Oregon on Thursday filed a lawsuit against major fossil fuel companies seeking more than $51 billion over the 2021 “Heat Dome,” one of the United States’ deadliest weather-related disasters. Continued …

€60 billion pledged to help Ukraine rebuild

Foreign donors have pledged €60 billion (US$66 billion) of new financial support for Ukraine, the United Kingdom said Thursday, as an international conference aimed at funding the war-ravaged country’s reconstruction closed. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

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.

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

climate change, covid, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news- June 16

  • Jeffrey McNeely: Still fighting for the environment/
  • Chef Jutamas “Som” Theantae finds success in Hua Hin/
  • Common mistakes to avoid while learning Thai/
  • Thai researchers sound the alarm over El Nino’s thirsty forecast/
  • Saudi Man Nabbed With 189 Wildlife In Smuggling Attempt/
  • Covid bivalent vaccine shows rapidly declining effectiveness against XBB strain/
  • Police say serial cyanide killer had accomplice in at least 4 murders/
  • Non-Stop Flow Of Myanmar Refugees To Thailand Amid Fierce Fighting/
  • Community planting new hope on a bare mountain/
  • A life in chains: Monkeys as coconut pickers in Thailand/
  • Economy: Bank of Thailand forecasts GDP growth, increased tourism/Digital push woos multinational firms/Thailand eyes sustainable construction via new waste management system/Recriminalizing cannabis may kill Thailand’s flowering weed industry/
  • Tourism: Thailand urged to woo business tourists/China bookings to return to pre-pandemic level by early 2024 – Agoda/
  • Thailand Experience: Top 15 Best Things to Do in Koh Samui/
  • International: US Military Wins ‘Unimpeded’ Access To Papua New Guinea Bases/
  • 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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Expat News is pleased to welcome a new series of articles about Hua Hin residents, written by freelance journalist Felicitee Lawrie, a Sydney, Australia, native.

“Hua Hin is full of unique human beings, each with an interesting back story, dreams, passions and achievements, much of it unknown to even people who encounter them on a daily basis,” Felicitee says of her current passion.

To read more about Felicitee, click HERE.

Jeffrey McNeely: Still fighting for the environment

By Felicitee Lawrie

Jeffrey McNeely describes himself as a curious, bibliophilic outdoor enthusiast. Trained as an anthropologist and having spent two years studying nature in the Himalayas of eastern Nepal, Jeff appreciates all things scientific and takes great delight in learning more about the natural world and the various ways different human cultures interact with it.

Although he retired at the end of 2016 from his final post as chief scientist at the Switzerland-based International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), this retirement has seen him only barely less busy or less productive. Continued …

Chef Jutamas “Som” Theantae finds success in Hua Hin

With well over 20 years’ experience as a professional chef, both in Thailand and abroad, Chef Jutamas “Som” Theantae has made quite a name for herself as someone who’s not afraid to push the epicurean envelope. Many Bangkok gourmands remember her fondly as the woman behind Karmakamet Conveyance restaurant, where diners were presented with intricately crafted and always unpredictable set menu dinners.

In October of 2021, she left the chaos of Bangkok behind and relocated to Hua Hin, where she opened a charming beachfront bistro appropriately named Som’s Table. Here she serves up an à la carte menu of beautifully prepared and highly imaginative gourmet comfort food dishes, which have, in turn, earned her a devoted foodie following. Continued …

Common mistakes to avoid while learning Thai

Thai is a fascinating language, filled with unique sounds, tones, and expressions that promise to make your learning experience an exciting adventure. But, like any language, Thai comes with its fair share of challenges and common Thai language mistakes that might catch you off guard.

No worries, though! Along with our friends at ALA Language School, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common mistakes you should steer clear of when learning Thai. Continued …

Thai researchers sound the alarm over El Nino’s thirsty forecast

Thai researchers are currently raising the alarm as they predict a potential drought crisis in the coming years, due to the El Nino weather pattern causing lower than average rainfall. Consequently, proactive measures and comprehensive water-management plans are urgently needed to mitigate the impact of the impending water scarcity.

A conference discussing climate change, water-resource management, and strategies for tackling future challenges was recently held by the Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI). Researchers and officials from related agencies attended the event to share their knowledge on the issue. Continued …

Saudi Man Nabbed With 189 Wildlife In Smuggling Attempt

A Saudi Arabian man was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport yesterday after 99 wild animals and 90 aquatic animals were found in his suitcases, just as he was trying to catch a flight back to his home country.

Airport officials inspected the three suitcases the unidentified Saudi man checked in at the international departure hall after one of them became suspicious about what they contained. Upon opening them, they found a total of 189 wildlife and aquatic animals worth 259,200 baht in them. Continued …

Covid bivalent vaccine shows rapidly declining effectiveness against XBB strain

The effectiveness of bivalent Covid-19 vaccines is likely to decline rapidly as the XBB variant continues to spread, Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine Associate Professor Dr. Thira Woratanarat, posted on Facebook today.

The news comes on the heels of Thursday’s meeting between the U.S. Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) and the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee held to discuss the findings of an ongoing study. Continued …

Police say serial cyanide killer had accomplice in at least 4 murders

A close associate of suspected serial cyanide killer Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn collaborated in at least four of the killings, police said on Thursday.

Deputy National Police Chief Surachet “Big Joke” Hakparn delivered the news as police prepared to hand their investigation report to public prosecutors on Monday. Continued …

Non-Stop Flow Of Myanmar Refugees To Thailand Amid Fierce Fighting

Amid fierce fighting between Myanmar junta army and Karenni Army (KA), Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) and People’s Defense Force (PDF) in Kayah state opposite Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province that started earlier this week, there is now a non-stop stream of Karenni refugees crossing over to seek shelter on the Thai side.

The fighting broke out on Tuesday between Myanmar junta’s 430th Rapid Mobility Battalion and Karenni fighters supported by PDF, the loosely organized armed wing of the pro-democracy National Unity Government, with 20 refugees having first crossed over that same evening. Continued …

Community planting new hope on a bare mountain

Residents from six villages near a gold mine in Thailand’s Loei province came together for a tree-planting event earlier this week, in an effort to restore life to a mountain ravaged by gold mining.

A community-based group called Khon Rak Ban Kerd (People Who Love Their Hometown), along with international students from the University of Massachusetts Lowell, school children and teachers from Ban Huai Phuk School and the head of the Khao Luang subdistrict administration organization collaborated to revive the once-thriving ecosystem on the mountain and heal the scars left by mining. Continued …

A life in chains: Monkeys as coconut pickers in Thailand

Nong has been walking in circles for an hour. Attached to his tight metal collar is a short 3-meter chain chained to a bamboo pole. The strong macaque monkey takes the chain in his hand, his facial expression revealing just how much he hates it.

Nong is four years old. He has lived with coconut farmer Lek and his family for two-and-a-half years. The monkey’s job is to pick coconuts from tall palm trees early in the morning, when the tropical heat on Thailand’s dream island of Koh Samui is still bearable. In order to complete his morning tasks, he is put on a slightly longer chain for some time. Continued …

Bank of Thailand forecasts GDP growth, increased tourism

Anticipating a stronger Thai economy, the Bank of Thailand has expressed confidence that GDP growth will surpass their expectations. This is attributed to the economic strategies implemented by the new government, combined with progress in the tourism and consumption sectors.

In a recent meeting, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the central bank stated that they foresee continuous growth in the Thai economy, albeit with some inflationary risks. According to the MPC, the driving forces behind this economic expansion are tourism and private consumption, along with a predicted recovery of goods exports by the latter half of 2023. Continued …

Digital push woos multinational firms

Many foreign software firms established offices in Thailand this year to capitalize on the country’s continuing digital transformation and to serve the demand of local enterprises.

The country also attracted large foreign data center and cloud service providers from the U.S., Japan and China over the past two years. Continued …

Thailand eyes sustainable construction via new waste-management system

Thailand’s push to create a “circular economy” has been handed fresh impetus with a new solution to manage waste from its burgeoning construction industry.

Developers of the CPAC Waste Management Solution say it will help achieve sustainability in the construction industry and strengthen “circular” resource management, while supporting the sector’s rapid growth. Continued …

Recriminalizing cannabis may kill Thailand’s flowering weed industry

Move Forward Party’s policy to relist cannabis as a narcotic could have deep and wide-ranging impacts on Thailand’s flourishing marijuana industry, experts say.

“More than a million people have applied to grow cannabis, while authorities have granted 1.1 million licenses to produce or sell cannabis-related products,” reports Nikkei Asia.

After cannabis was removed from the narcotics list on June 9 last year, Kasikorn Research Centre forecast the value of Thailand’s weed market would hit 21 billion baht by 2024, driven by demand from Thais and foreign tourists. Continued …

Thailand urged to woo business tourists

Online travel agent Agoda hopes Thailand can become a preferred destination for business travelers, competing with Japan and Vietnam.

Following Japan in the top spot, Thailand became the second-largest inbound market via the Agoda platform from January to May, ahead of Vietnam in third. Continued …

China bookings to return to pre-pandemic level by early 2024 – Agoda

Overseas travel bookings from mainland China are currently at just over half of pre-pandemic levels but are on course to return to the 2019 numbers by the end of this year or early 2024, the head of online travel agency Agoda said on Thursday.

China was the world’s largest outbound tourism market before the pandemic with annual spending of $255 billion. The country reopened earlier this year after removing most of its pandemic restrictions, giving a big boost to outbound travel. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Top 15 Best Things to Do in Koh Samui

Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is a tropical paradise that offers a myriad of reasons to visit. In this Koh Samui Travel Guide, we will share a few enticing aspects of this stunning island destination:

Idyllic Beaches: Koh Samui boasts some of Thailand’s most picturesque beaches, with crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and lush palm-fringed coastlines. From the popular Chaweng Beach to the tranquil Lamai Beach, you can indulge in sunbathing, swimming, or simply unwinding by the sea. Video 

US Military Wins ‘Unimpeded’ Access To Papua New Guinea Bases

The U.S. military can develop and operate out of bases in Papua New Guinea, according to a landmark security pact underpinning Washington’s efforts to outflank China in the Pacific. 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

climate change, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-May 12

  • Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend/
  • Thai banks considering cash transaction fee ‘to cover their costs’/
  • Practical tips for learning Thai as a beginner/
  • Global warming and smog are boosting production of Thai air conditioners/
  • RTA army chief assures there’ll be ‘no coups on his watch’/
  • Foreign community looks to newly elected government for better investment opportunities/
  • Uptick in consumer confidence persists/
  • Roughly 60% of people in Asia-Pacific work a side job/
  • Thai cement firm ‘prints’ two-story medical center/
  • Arson attacks strike 23 locations in far south/
  • Why buying cannabis in Thailand might get tougher after election/
  • Tourism: TAT targets digital nomads with 100-baht travel vouchers on weekdays/Tourists flee as python slithers into Krabi’s Emerald Pool/Western tourists embrace traditional Chinese medicine in Thailand/THAI, Bangkok Airways earnings surge as tourists flock back/
  • Thailand Experience: The Food School Bangkok: Where Culinary Dreams Come to Life/
  • International: ASEAN pushes for greater local currency use/Labuan Bajo: Why is the Indonesian town known as the next Bali?/
  • 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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Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend

The north, central, eastern and southern regions of Thailand will experience isolated heavy to very heavy rains from Friday to Monday due to the influence of tropical cyclone “Mocha”, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said today.

The cyclone, which was hovering over the central Bay of Bengal as of 4am today, was moving north at about 10 km/hr, with sustained winds of about 105 km/hr. It is expected to make landfall over Myanmar on either Sunday or Monday (May 14-15). Continued …

Thai banks considering cash transaction fee ‘to cover their costs’

The members of the Thai Bankers’ Assn. are considering adjusting banks’ fee structures, including levying a cash transaction fee, the association president, Payong Srivanich, said. The association will have to seek approval for the move from the Bank of Thailand (BOT).

Payong, who is also the executive director and member of Krungthai Bank’s risk oversight committee, said the adjustment of the fee structure was aimed at striking a balance between the banks’ costs and services, and not to increase profits. Continued …

Practical tips for learning Thai as a beginner

Learning a new language can be challenging, and Thai is no exception. As a beginner, you might find yourself struggling to grasp the tonal nuances of the language, the unfamiliar script, and the sheer volume of vocabulary to learn.

But with the right mindset and approach, learning Thai can be an exciting and rewarding journey that opens up a world of possibilities. And to make your language-learning journey smoother and more enjoyable, we’ve put together some practical tips that will help you get started on the right track. Continued …

Global warming and smog are boosting production of Thai air conditioners

Scorching heat and air pollution have driven production of air conditioners in Thailand to their highest level in eight years, the Office of Industrial Economics said on Thursday.

Warawan Chitaroon, its general director, said Thailand exported about US$850 million worth of air conditioners in March alone, up 16.7% from the same month last year. Continued …

RTA army chief assures there’ll be ‘no coups on his watch’

Royal Thai Army (RTA) Gen. Narongpan Jittkaewtae assured the Thai public yesterday that there would be no coups on his watch, stating that the term should not exist in anyone’s vocabulary. Narongpan is set to retire on Sept. 30 and provided reassurances in the lead-up to the elections on Sunday. There have been concerns about possible unrest following the polls.

When questioned about the potential for future unrest and the military’s response, the Army chief explained that he was not worried. Continued …

Foreign community looks to newly elected government for better investment opportunities

Thailand’s foreign community is hoping for a more democratic and investor-friendly new government to emerge from the general election taking place this Sunday, May 14.

Jon Åström Gröndahl, Swedish ambassador to Thailand, said: “Sweden welcomes Thailand’s general election and hopes that it will be a free and fair election.” Continued …

Uptick in consumer confidence persists

Consumer confidence in April rose for an 11th straight month, reaching the highest level in 38 months, helped by a reduction in Covid-19 infections, the recovery of domestic tourism and lively election campaigns nationwide.

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) reported on Thursday the consumer confidence index rose to 55 in April from 53.8 in March, 52.6 in February and 51.7 in January. Continued …

Roughly 60% of people in Asia-Pacific work a side job

Almost 60% of people in Asia-Pacific have a side job, with the majority saying they do so to make ends meet, according to a recent survey from global health and wellness company Herbalife.

Findings from Herbalife’s 2023 Asia-Pacific Side Job Survey indicated almost 3 in 5 (59%) respondents have a side job, with the top reason (61%) being to make ends meet. Continued …

Thai cement firm ‘prints’ two-story medical center

Thailand’s Siam Cement Group (SCG) has printed a two-story medical center in Saraburi, billed as the first of its kind in the world.

It used Danish printer-maker Cobod’s BOD2 concrete printer to build the 345-sq-meter facility faster and with fewer workers compared to conventional construction practices, Cobod said. Continued …

Arson attacks strike 23 locations in far south

Twenty-three locations in Thailand’s southernmost provinces were hit by arson attacks late on Thursday night, resulting in the torching of mobile phone antenna towers and power poles and the burning of tires. The incidents occurred between 9pm and 11pm, officials said.

The affected areas included seven locations in Muang, Raman and Thanto districts of Yala; 12 locations in Muang, Nong Chik, Sai Buri, and Yarang districts of Pattani; and four locations in Muang, Rueso and Tak Bai districts of Narathiwat. Continued …

Why buying cannabis in Thailand might get tougher after election

The days of easily buying marijuana on the streets of Bangkok or Phuket may soon be over.

Four years after the Bhumjaithai party won almost four million votes on a vow to decriminalize cannabis — then carrying it out as the third-biggest bloc in a military-backed government — the tide has turned: most of the parties contesting Sunday’s national election are calling for the measure to be repealed and restrict the use of cannabis to medical purposes. Continued …

TAT targets digital nomads with 100-baht travel vouchers on weekdays

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on Thursday launched a new campaign offering tourism promotions for as little as 100 baht to encourage Thais to travel during the week and work remotely.

Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, TAT deputy governor for the domestic market, announced the “Workation Thailand for only 100 baht” campaign at a press conference, saying its goal was to increase domestic travel and overnight stays during weekdays by offering tourism products and services for as little as 100 baht each. Continued …

Tourists flee as python slithers into Krabi’s Emerald Pool

A two-meter-long python slithered into the popular Emerald Pool in Krabi province in southern Thailand on Tuesday, sending panicked tourists clambering in all directions.

In a chaotic TikTok clip, tourists scream as one brave swimmer splashes water at the python on the poolside in an attempt to drive it away. But it was a hot day. The python wanted to cool off, too. Video 

Western tourists embrace traditional Chinese medicine in Thailand

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is seeing a surge in popularity among Western tourists visiting Thailand and other Asian nations where TCM is widely practiced and easily accessible. Visitors are often drawn to TCM due to its perceived effectiveness, the use of natural remedies, and its holistic approach to health and wellness.

In recent years, TCM has received increased recognition and acceptance in the Western world, with many countries legalizing and regulating its practice. This has also contributed to the growing number of Western tourists seeking TCM treatments while vacationing in Thailand. Continued …

THAI, Bangkok Airways earnings surge as tourists flock back

Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways reported a surge in first-quarter earnings as tourists flocked back to the nation.

Thai Air posted net income of 12.51 billion baht in the three months through March, rebounding from a net loss of 3.25 billion baht a year earlier. Bangkok Airways’ net income was 875 million baht versus a net loss of 1.02 billion baht in the same quarter last year. Continued …

The Food School Bangkok: Where Culinary Dreams Come to Life

Aspiring chefs seeking an exceptional learning experience that can launch a highly successful career need look no further than The Food School Bangkok, a progressive culinary school that brings together three renowned partner institutes in a single location.

ALMA – The School of Italian Culinary Arts from Italy, TSUJI Culinary Institute from Japan, and Dusit Thani College from Thailand have joined forces to create a unique culinary educational experience for aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts. Continued …

ASEAN pushes for greater local currency use

ASEAN leaders declared at this week’s summit in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, that member countries should use their own currencies more often in intraregional trade, as the bloc aims to insulate the region from external volatility. Continued …

Labuan Bajo: Why is the Indonesian town known as the next Bali?

Southeast Asia’s leaders are meeting this week in an enchanting harbor town known as a “gateway to the dragons” and one of Indonesia’s “10 new Balis”. Labuan Bajo is a once-quiet fishing village nestled in the westernmost part of Flores Island, in east Indonesia’s Nusa Tenggara region. 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

hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-May 2

  • Hua Hin’s iconic Chat Chai Market to undergo a revamp/
  • How an aging population is creating new business opportunities/
  • Electric bill increase fuels rise in food production costs/
  • Heat and air pollution persist in North, South sees heavy rain/
  • Scorcher powers LG air conditioner sales/
  • Practical tips for learning Thai as a beginner/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Bloomberg calls Thailand a new economic star/Workers mark Labor Day with demand for THB700 minimum wage/Shippers expect exports to rise 1% this year/EGAT to spend Bt300 billion on floating solar farm development/MG readies the construction of EV battery plant in Thailand/Executives fret over ‘greenwashing’/
  • Tourism: Thai tourism industry optimistic as Chinese tourist arrivals skyrocket/Wealthy tourists unfazed by pricey trips/Phuket’s international arrivals stabilize, with Russians still leading the way/
  • International: North Asia’s factories stuck in decline/How Close is Asia to Fixing its Plastic Pollution Problem?/Chase’s takeover of First Republic does not end worries over US banks/Biden and Marcos Jr discuss Beijing’s South China Sea expansion/Brain scans and AI could transcribe what people are thinking/
  • 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

    Subscribe to Blog via Email

    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Hua Hin’s iconic Chat Chai Market to undergo a revamp

Hua Hin’s iconic Chat Chai Market is set to undergo a major revitalization, according to plans announced by Hua Hin municipality. The market, which has been a fixture of the Hua Hin community for almost a century, will be modernized and upgraded to meet the needs of both locals and tourists.

The project will involve both the development of new products and the upgrading of existing offerings to be more contemporary, while still retaining the unique character of the historic market. Additionally, the market’s layout will be reorganized to provide more organized parking and shopping areas. Continued …

How an aging population is creating new business opportunities

The world’s population is getting older. And Thailand is among the fastest-aging societies in the world. Of its 67 million population, more than 12 million Thais are elderly, according to the Department of Older Persons, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, with the majority of them in the 60-69 group.

Japan became the world’ first “super-aged” society in 2006. By 2029, Thailand is expected to join Japan in this demographic trend, according to recent research carried out by Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch). This is due to a decrease in the population in the past three years. Continued …

Electric bill increase fuels rise in food production costs

The rise in electricity bills since the start of this year has increased the overall cost of food manufacturing by 2.5% to 5%, Wisit Limleucha, vice president of the Thai Chamber of Commerce said on Monday.

He said last year’s electricity costs were responsible for 5%-10% of manufacturing costs of the food industry, but this year the number has jumped to 7.5%-15%, prompting some operators to find ways to reduce their power bills, including installing solar rooftops and turning off unnecessary appliances. Continued …

Heat and air pollution persist in North, South sees heavy rain

Thunderstorms and gusting winds will affect 36 provinces over the next two days due to the presence of a cold air mass over the upper region of Thailand, which is experiencing scorching temperatures.

Meanwhile, the winds blowing in over the Gulf of Thailand, the southern region, and the Andaman Sea, are increasing in strength, causing an increase in rainfall in the southern region and heavy rain in some areas. Continued …

Scorcher powers LG air conditioner sales

LG Electronics (Thailand) Co., the distributor of LG air-conditioning products, has reworked its marketing strategies after experiencing a surge in sales attributed to the scorching heat.

Amnaj Singhachan, the company’s senior marketing manager, said LG revised its sales targets for air-conditioning products twice this year because of unprecedented demand related to the hot weather. Continued …

Practical tips for learning Thai as a beginner

Learning a new language can be challenging, and Thai is no exception. As a beginner, you might find yourself struggling to grasp the tonal nuances of the language, the unfamiliar script, and the sheer volume of vocabulary to learn.

But with the right mindset and approach, learning Thai can be an exciting and rewarding journey that opens up a world of possibilities. And to make your language-learning journey smoother and more enjoyable, we’ve put together some practical tips that will help you get started on the right track. Continued …

Thailand’s biggest serial killer suspect legally protected from the death penalty

As the police screen more incoming reports of suspicious deaths linked with what officers suspect to be Thailand’s biggest-ever serial killer, Sararat Rangsiwutthaporn, one story in recent days of a doctor working with the Royal Thai Police stood out as particularly harrowing.

The doctor appeared on the country’s popular Channel 3 TV telling top host, Kanchai Kamnodploy, on the daily news program that he believed his wife was poisoned by a pill sent to her after she had just given birth to the couple’s infant daughter in November 2020. Continued …

Bloomberg calls Thailand a new economic star

Global financial news service Bloomberg is calling Thailand an economic star for its resiliency and reports that investors are flocking to the Kingdom.

“Among the kingdom’s attributes are a resurgence in tourism, low foreign debt and a surplus in the broadest measure of trade. That is a halo historically associated with Switzerland, Japan, or prized asset classes like U.S. Treasuries,” Bloomberg wrote, adding that investment bank Goldman Sachs likened the Kingdom to a “safe haven.” Continued …

Workers mark Labor Day with demand for THB700 minimum wage

Labor representatives gathered on National Labor Day on Phitsanulok Road in Bangkok to demand 700-baht daily wage from the next government.

Rallyists also demanded that the new government, expected to be formed after the May 14 general election, would ensure laborers have the right to form a union to negotiate with their employers for better compensation and benefits. Continued …

Shippers expect exports to rise 1% this year

Thailand’s exports are likely to rise 1% in 2023 and should pick up later in the year, owing to a recovery in China’s economy, the Thai National Shippers’ Council said today.

Exports, a key driver of Thai growth, were not as weak as expected in the first quarter and should improve in the remaining months of the year, Chaichan Chareonsuk, chairman of the council, told a news conference. Continued …

58.5MW Floating PV Plant 

EGAT to spend Bt300 billion on floating solar farm development

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) aims to increase its power-generation capacity from floating solar farms at its nine hydropower plants to 10 gigawatts by 2037, with investment of almost 300 billion baht.

The government earlier approved EATs plan to develop 2,725 megawatts from floating solar farms at the nine dams. Continued …

MG readies the construction of EV battery plant in Thailand

SAIC Motor-CP and MG Sales (Thailand), manufacturer and distributor of MG cars in Thailand, held a foundation stone laying ceremony with a road map to transform the 75-rai factory space into partnership development areas for car parts and a battery-manufacturing plant in response to the electric vehicle trend.

The factory is located in the WHA Eastern Seaboard Industrial Estate 2 (WHA ESIE 2) in Chonburi. Spanning across an area of over 437.5 rai, the manufacturing facility has a maximum production capacity of 100,000 units per year. Continued …

Executives fret over ‘greenwashing’

More than half of executives surveyed in Thailand admitted their organizations have overstated or inaccurately represented the impact of their sustainability initiatives, which could potentially stall progress on sustainability, according to a recent report.

A report by Google Cloud found corporate greenwashing is a prevalent concern among local executives, with 83% of them believing greenwashing is accidental when companies cannot effectively measure results or progress, which leads to overstatement of sustainability efforts. Continued …

Thai tourism industry optimistic as Chinese tourist arrivals skyrocket

The recent steady increase of Chinese tourists to Thailand has been observed by a Thai expert, who views it as a positive sign for the Thai tourism industry and the broader Thai economy.

From Jan. 1 to April 23, over 737,000 Chinese tourists visited Thailand, marking a 30-fold increase from the same period last year, according to Kevalin Wangpichayasuk, assistant managing director of Kasikorn Research Center. This increase came after China optimized its COVID-19 restriction measures late last year. Continued …

Wealthy tourists unfazed by pricey trips

Increased hotel room prices and living expenses in Japan will not significantly affect tourists with high purchasing power, as they usually demand premium services, but the outbound market could slow based on seasonality.

A survey by hotel research firm STR found Tokyo’s room rates already exceeded the level recorded before the pandemic. A domestic travel subsidy scheme in Japan also contributed to increasing occupancy rates. Continued …

Phuket’s international arrivals stabilize, with Russians still leading the way

Tourism arrival numbers appear to have stabilized in Phuket during April after a drastic drop immediately after Songkran on the holiday island. Between February and the middle of April, the average tourist arrivals dropped around 20%.

But from April 20 until the end of the month, there has been a welcome uptick in international arrivals, which bodes well for the post-Songkran tourist traffic onto the island. Continued …

North Asia’s factories stuck in decline

North Asia’s export powerhouses continued to stutter in April amid sluggish global trade and a patchy economic recovery in China, according to new data that amplified concerns about the risk of a global recession. Continued …

How Close is Asia to Fixing its Plastic Pollution Problem?

Plastic pollution is a growing environmental problem across the world, but Asia is particularly vulnerable. With high population density, rapid urbanization, and inadequate waste-management infrastructure, plastic waste is accumulating in Asian waterways and ultimately ends up in the ocean, where it poses a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems. Continued …

Chase’s takeover of First Republic does not end worries over US banks

The seizure of First Republic Bank by bank regulators and the selling of its assets to JPMorgan Chase on Monday may have resolved the largest U.S. bank failure since the 2008 financial crisis. Still, experts say it did not wholly eliminate lingering concerns about U.S. banks. Continued …

Biden and Marcos Jr discuss Beijing’s South China Sea expansion

In recent discussions at the White House, President Joe Biden and Philippine leader Ferdinand Marcos Jr. addressed Beijing’s assertive expansion through the strategic trade routes and islands of the South China Sea. This move signals Washington’s increasing concern over China’s aggressive claims of sovereignty over virtually the entire South China Sea, despite international rulings stating otherwise. Continued …

Brain scans and AI could transcribe what people are thinking

Scientists have announced a breakthrough in the decoding of human thoughts, utilizing a combination of brain scans and artificial intelligence (AI) models. The technology uncovers “the gist” of an individual’s thoughts and may significantly benefit those who have lost their ability to communicate. 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