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bangkok, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s News-March 4

  • It’s about to get hot in Thailand/
  • Alcohol ban in Thailand on Monday/
  • 90% of hotspots in northern Thailand caused by human activity/
  • Thailand still pushing its unattractive LTR 10-year visa/
  • Draft Prostitution Law To Set Voluntary Service At Minimum 20 Years Old/
  • Calling anyone “nhoo” is not endearing, especially at work/
  • Ministry says Bangkok’s port is staying put/
  • Hatching leatherback turtles gets helping hand/
  • O’Sullivan, Mink headline Snooker Six Red World Championships in Thailand March 6-11/
  • Tourism: March Madness: Thailand prepares for a month of festivals and events/Chiang Mai Airport Records More Than 200% Increase in Passenger Arrivals/Crowdfunding your medical bills seldom works in Thailand/Centara expects revenue surge as Chinese return/
  • Thailand Experience: In the ‘Guilin of Thailand’, locals lead efforts to conserve ancient rainforest/Video: Why do Thais put sugar in noodles?/
  • International: UN: Myanmar junta ‘at war with country’s own people’/Twitter’s revenue, adjusted earnings down 40%/
  • 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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It’s about to get hot in Thailand

Thailand is bracing for scorching temperatures, as summer officially begins gtomorrow, with the season expected to last until around mid-May. Bangkok is expected to see record-breaking highs of 39C, the hottest since 2019.

Meanwhile, provinces in the north, including Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Sukhothai and Tak, are likely to see temperatures soaring upward of 43C, as forecasted by Thai government meteorologists.

Although Bangkok will experience heavy haze this month, there will be some cool morning winds in the north and northeast. The capital city can expect stable, sunny weather for the next week,with highs of 35C and progressively warmer evenings, with lows expected to rise from 23C to 26C by March 10. Continued …

Alcohol ban in Thailand on Monday

People in Thailand will observe the Buddhist religious day Makha Bucha on Monday, which also brings a 24-hour ban on the sale of alcohol.

One of the most important days in the Buddhist calendar, the sale of alcohol is prohibited at all venues, including restaurants, bars, pubs, hotels, convenience stores and supermarkets.

The 24 hour ban on alcohol is in place from 12:01am on Monday through to midnight. Continued …

90% of hotspots in northern Thailand caused by human activity

 

About 90% of the hotspots in northern Thailand are caused by humans and PM2.5 atmospheric pollution in the region is expected to increase before it gets any better, said Director-General of the Pollution Control Department Pinsak Suraswadi.

According to the IQAir website yesterday, Chiang Mai has the second worst air quality of any city in the world, with the quality measured at 177 on AQI, which means that the problem is affecting the health of everyone in the province.

Pinsak said that 90% of the hotspots were detected in conserved forests, with humans being the main culprit, adding that the problem trends worse from today until next Friday, with higher levels of dust reported in Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Sukhothai and Phitsanuloke. Continued … 

Thailand still pushing its unattractive LTR 10-year visa

The government of Thailand is once again, making unsubstantiated claims regarding its 10-year, multiple entry Long Term Residence (LTR) visa program.

The government still reckons the LTR program will attract one million foreigners over five years and act as a catalyst to boost the nation’s tourism and promote economic growth in Thailand.

According to VN Express yesterday, the secretary general of Thailand’s Board of Investment, Narit Therdsteerasukdi, announced that 2,800 foreigners have already applied for the new visas since its launch on Sept.1 last year, with retirees accounting for 35%. However, the figures just don’t add up. Continued … 

Draft Prostitution Law To Set Voluntary Service At Minimum 20 Years Old

A committee drafting a new law governing prostitution has agreed that voluntary sexual service without any criminal penalties should be allowed from 20 years of age.

Jintana Chanbamroong, head of the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development at Social Development and Human Security Ministry, said after presiding over a meeting of the committee drafting the new law that public hearings both online and on-site were held in five cities,including Bangkok, Chonburi and Hat Yai.

Focus group hearings were held before a conclusion was reached and a proposal tabled to Social Development and Human Security Minister Juti Krairiksh that a new law on prostitution be implemented. Continued …

Calling anyone “nhoo” is not endearing, especially at work

We have heard people expressing their frustration of being called “girls” at work along with many other workplace micro-aggressions related to race, age and gender in recent years.

Meanwhile, in the Thai language, people are also frustrated with a similar, yet a complicated cultural problem, which is being called “nhoo” (หนู), literally “mouse”.

In Thai, “nhoo” (หนู) is often used as a pronoun referring to young children in an “endearing” sense. Adults would use “nhoo”, as in “you”, when talking to children and, in return, children would call themselves “nhoo”, as in “I”, when talking to adults. Continued …

Ministry says Bangkok’s port is staying put

The Transport Ministry has poured cold water on a suggestion by the Bangkok governor to move Bangkok Port from Klong Toey district, saying it has plans to develop the facility into a green port.

According to Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt, relocating from Klong Toey to the Laem Chabang deep-sea port in Chon Buri could reduce the number of trips by freight trucks entering and leaving Bangkok Port by at least a million a year, which would cut road traffic and help ease PM2.5 levels.

He said City Hall would propose the relocation to political parties as a way of tackling Bangkok’s flood problems. By getting the port out of the capital, it would mean no more freight ships sailing up the river to hinder a future flood-prevention project he has in store. Continued …

Hatching leatherback turtles gets helping hand

It is past midnight on a beach in southern Thailand and 12-year-old Prin Uthaisangchai is anxiously staring at a leatherback turtle nest, waiting for scores of the endangered hatchlings to scrabble out from the sand. Continued …

O’Sullivan, Mink headline Snooker Six Red World Championships in Thailand March 6-11

Snooker fans in Thailand are in for a treat when many of the best players in the world head for Pathum Thani north of the Thai capital Bangkok for the Six Red World Championships 2023.

The venue is the Thammasat Convention Centre on the road that leads from Rangsit to the ring road.

Featuring 32 cueists including eight Thai players the event, not played since before the pandemic, runs from Monday to Saturday next week. Continued …

March Madness: Thailand prepares for a month of festivals and events

Thailand is preparing for a busy month of festivals and events in March, with the return of many annual celebrations that were put on pause during the pandemic.

March is a particularly important month in Thailand, as it includes the important Buddhist festival of Makha Bucha Day. This holiday falls on the full moon day of the third lunar month and celebrates a gathering between Lord Buddha and 1,250 of his disciples. This year’s Makha Bucha Day falls on Monday, March 6.

Thailand’s Hok Peng festival started on Feb. 28 and continued until March 1 in the northern Nan province. The festival is being held at the province’s Wat Phra That Chae Haeng temple. The festival, which celebrates the sixth Northern Thai lunar month, includes a range of Buddhist activities, a traditional market and shopping street, and cultural processions and competitions. Continued …

Chiang Mai Airport Records More Than 200% Increase in Passenger Arrivals

Chiang Mai International Airport celebrated its 35th anniversary on March 1, with a record more than 200% increase in passenger arrivals.

Vijit Keawsaitiam, general manager of Chiang Mai International Airport, Airports of Thailand, said on this occasion that Chiang Mai Airport has grown steadily over the past 10 years, reaching a record 11.3 million passenger arrivals in 2019. Only in 2020–2021, during the pandemic, did the airport see a decline in flight and passenger numbers.

Following the Thai and international governments’ decision to resume international travel, the airport has seen growth in flight and passenger arrivals again in 2022. Continued …

Crowdfunding your medical bills seldom works in Thailand

The current case of 23-year old British tourist, badly injured and totally immobile in Thailand after a fall from his hotel balcony, is an unfolding tragedy. His family needs a small fortune for an air ambulance to UK for a complex operation on the advice of doctors, illustrating the growing problem of huge medical bills in the Land of Smiles.

Medical insurance is optional for all tourists and most expats, but neither the Thai state nor foreign embassies will contribute a penny when ill fortune strikes. Understandably, public and private Thai hospitals customarily refuse to provide unfunded treatment. Their rules are insurance with a written commitment to pay or cash up front.

According to the monitoring portal Statista, there is a worldwide boom in charity crowdsourcing where friends, relatives and well-wishers are invited to make donations via the internet. But the average total donated is less than US$2,000, while the typical request via GoFundMe or Just Giving is for between US$30,000 and US$40,000. Continued … 

Centara expects revenue surge as Chinese return

Centara Hotels and Resorts (CHR) is aiming for revenue of 10 billion baht this year, exceeding the tally in 2019, with Chinese tourists expected to help the company gain momentum as it opens six more hotels in Thailand and Japan in 2023.

CHR Chief Executive Thirayuth Chirathivat said the company is optimistic about the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s forecast of 30 million foreign arrivals this year.

Thirayuth said most CHR hotels increased their room rates, as guests staying at its properties last year were not price-sensitive. Continued …

In the ‘Guilin of Thailand’, locals lead efforts to conserve ancient rainforest

The rangers move in formation, alert as they weave through dense foliage and wade across waist-deep rivers. The rainforest is loud with the siren calls of birds hidden in the canopy.

From afar, the group might be mistaken for a military unit. The men – some experienced and others as young as 19 – wear camouflage fatigues, grip rifles and mean business. But their success in recent years means they are more likely to be looking for elephants to monitor than poachers to catch.

The rangers form the forest protection unit of Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani province in Thailand’s south. Their patrol missions can last as long as 14 days as they venture deep into the wilderness. Continued …

Video: Why do Thais put sugar in noodles?

Why do Thais put sugar into their noodle soup when no other Asian country does it? The answer may surprise you and may relate to something much more pressing. (P.S., Don’t blame boat noodles for PM2.5) YouTube

UN: Myanmar junta ‘at war with country’s own people’

Myanmar’s military rulers now see civilians as their adversaries and are making war on the country’s own people, undermining the basic ability to live, the United Nations said on Friday. Continued …

Twitter’s revenue, adjusted earnings down 40%

Twitter Inc. has recorded a 40% decline in year-over-year in both revenue and adjusted earnings for the month of December, according to media reports. The news about fall in revenue comes after many advertisers cut down their spends on Twitter amid the uncertainty that followed the takeover of the platform by Elon Musk. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting

 

bangkok, cha am, hospitality, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-Feb 25

1 Comment

  • Ban on standing on back of songtaews puts drivers in a pickle/
  • Soi cats and dogs beware! PAT is on the job/
  • Reggae and ska festivals to be held in Cha Am March 4/
  • How online gambling infiltrated government websites to bypass betting ban/
  • Health Minister Says It is ‘Impossible’ to Legalize E-Cigarettes/
  • Global and Thai economy in a ‘no-landing scenario’/
  • Thailand’s dilemma as world splits one year into Russia-Ukraine war/
  • Thailand votes for Russia to withdraw from Ukraine at UN Assembly/
  • Thailand claims No.2 rank for bioplastic production/
  • Is TikTok disinformation threatening ‘democracy’ in Thailand?/
  • Border security boosted as fighting erupts in Myanmar/
  • Tourism: Thailand Sanctuary Caring for Elephants with ‘Caved-in’ Backs Damaged by Years of Tourist Rides/Pattaya, Hua Hin favorite getaways for Thai families – Agoda/Where you can pan for gold just two hours south of Hua Hin/How much does hospitality contribute to Thailand’s economy?/Thai hotels recover as foreign tourists return in droves/Upswing in bookings from China to Thailand/Tubing on the river in Pai – video/Thai Airways rides Asia’s travel reopening back to profit/Carriers upbeat on recovery prospects/Thai Smile-THAI merger ‘to cut losses’/
  • Thailand Experience: Thai iced tea: a global success story brewed over 4 centuries/Airbnb in Thailand: Remote Eco-Villa Floating on a Lake in Kanchanaburi/Bangkok beyond the bustle: Where to eat, shop and explore in Thailand’s capital/If You’re New To Cooking Thai Food, Taste As You Go/The healing power of cannabis in Thai herbal medicine/
  • International: ‘They brought war, and I don’t know why’ – Kherson resident on frontline life/EU agrees new sanctions over Russia’s war in Ukraine/G7 threatens Russia sanctions busters with ‘severe costs’/Ericsson to cut 8,500 jobs worldwide/
  • 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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Ban on standing on back of songtaews puts drivers in a pickle

A new law has been published in the Royal Gazette, stating that passengers are no longer allowed to stand on the back of baht buses, also known as songtaews. But drivers are also obligated to pick up all passengers, leaving drivers with the dilemma of either illegally not picking up passengers when full or illegally overcrowding and allowing passengers to stand on the back of the bus.

Similar laws have long existed – and often been ignored – on a local level throughout Thailand. But last Friday, the ban on standing on the back of baht buses was enacted as a federal law. Some believe the national law will be more strictly enforced than local laws.

Baht buses are a common form of public transportation in Thailand, especially in urban areas. They are typically pickup trucks or vans with covered seating areas in the back, and they follow fixed routes around the city, picking up and dropping off passengers along the way. Baht buses are known for their low fares, and passengers can flag them down from the roadside or hail them from a designated stop. Continued … 

Soi cats and dogs beware! PAT is on the job

With a team of trained staff, a vehicle to transport captured stray animals, clinic and operating theater, People and Animals Thailand is now ready to undertake its mission to significantly reduce the number of stray dogs and cats on regional streets.

People And Animals Thailand (PAT) is managed by Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT). Located between Hua Hin and Cha Am, the clinic has been set up specifically to help deal with the overpopulation of soi dogs and cats in the region.

This is not an animal refuge or general animal hospital but a facility to realize the purpose of PAT to provide free sterilization and vaccination services to improve the quality of life for both people and animals. Continued … 

One of Thailand’s biggest reggae and ska festivals to be held in Cha Am March 4

The Sunset Beach Music Festival 2023, one of the most highly anticipated events for reggae and ska music lovers in Thailand, will be held in Cha Am March 4.

With performances by some of the biggest names in the industry, the festival is regarded as Thailand’s biggest reggae and ska music festival by the sea. The event will be held at Baan Mai Bon Hat resort on Bang Kao Beach in Cha Am. Continued …

How online gambling infiltrated government websites to bypass betting ban

Hackers working for online gambling platforms have hijacked the web pages of many Thai government agencies and turned them into portals for illegal gaming sites.

Websites of state agencies under all 20 ministries have been infiltrated by the hackers, said Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn. More than 30 million URLs of state-agency websites were found to have been corrupted, he said.

The hackers managed to plant malicious scripts that linked to online gambling websites, the minister explained. The script, which contains keywords for online gambling and links to gaming platforms, caused state agency web pages hijacked by online gambling websites to appear among the top Google search results. Continued … 

Health Minister Says It is ‘Impossible’ to Legalize E-Cigarettes

Thai Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul reiterated his stance on banning all forms of e-cigarettes, including selling and importing the products into the country.

Anutin told a meeting of the National Confederation of Networks for Thai Smoke-Free Society that it is alarming that more people, especially youngsters, turned to smoking electronic cigarettes nowadays due to a misconception that the device cannot cause cancer or is harmless for health.

This is totally not true, Anutin said, citing the World Health Organization’s study, which confirms that e-cigarettes are indeed harmful. Continued …

Global and Thai economy in a ‘no-landing scenario’

The world economy in the first quarter of 2023, especially in January, seems to be defying gravity. The U.S. labor market and retail sales figures have been much better than expected, while inflation is showing signs of a slower-than-expected slowdown.

You probably have heard of hard and soft landings, but what is happening now is what some economists and strategists define as a “no-landing scenario”.

What that means is that the economy is still expanding despite rising interest rates, while inflation is still high, which will lead central banks, especially the U.S. Federal Reserve to continue to raise interest rates. Continued …

Thailand’s dilemma as world splits one year into Russia-Ukraine war

Experts have urged Thais to brace themselves for a more volatile and unstable world as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalates and new variables emerge.

The warning came as the war following Russia’s invasion approached its one-year anniversary on Feb. 24 with no sign of a peace agreement.

Somchai Pakapasvivat, an academic and analyst of international politics and economics, said the war was shifting the world into a new era of “unstable multipolarism”. Continued …

Thailand votes for Russia to withdraw from Ukraine at UN Assembly

Thailand was one of 141 countries at the United Nations (UN) General Assembly that voted for Russia to end the war in Ukraine and withdraw troops immediately.

Seven countries voted against and 32 countries abstained.

Thailand’s vote is significant since Thailand refused to condemn Russia’s annexation of Ukraine at a UN Assembly in October 2022, abstaining from the vote. Continued …

Thailand claims No.2 rank for bioplastic production

Thailand is the world’s second-largest producer of bioplastic products, serving growing demand overseas thanks to plenty of raw materials to drive manufacturing, says the Thai Bioplastics Industry Assn. (TBIA).

The country’s production capacity is 95,000 tons a year and manufacturers plan to increase the volume by 75,000 tons a year, said Viboon Pungprasert, president of TBIA.

Bioplastic manufacturing not only adds value to Thai agricultural products, but also supports global efforts to cut carbon dioxide emissions and is one option to deal with problems caused by single-use plastics, he said. Continued …

Is TikTok disinformation threatening ‘democracy’ in Thailand?

Especially at voting time, fears grow of TikTok “disinformation” threatening democracy. Politicians and their paymasters are terrified that they can no longer control the supply of information to the public, thanks to platforms like Facebook and TikTok.

With Thailand’s general election only a few months away, the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) is battling to take back control of information through self-censorship of the TikTok video-sharing platform. Ostensibly, this is to keep young voters on the government’s straight and narrow path. Continued …

Border security boosted as fighting erupts in Myanmar

Security has been tightened along the border in Sangkhla Buri district as fresh fighting erupted in Myanmar on Saturday morning.

Myanmar troops clashed with unknown forces for more than one hour. People on the Thai side of the border heard the sound of gunfire around 6.30am, with thick smoke and flames billowing over Myanmar’s Payathongzu township, opposite Phra Chedi Sam Ong village Moo 9 in tambon Nong Lu of Sangkhla Buri, said a border source. Continued …

Thailand Sanctuary Caring for Elephants with ‘Caved-in’ Backs Damaged by Years of Tourist Rides

Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand https://www.wfft.org/(WWFT) in Phetchaburi is working to raise awareness about how tourists’ decisions can negatively impact animals.

An elephant being “trained” for tourism

WWFT runs the largest wildlife center in Thailand, which includes a sanctuary for elephants. Many of the center’s elephant residents are animals rescued from the trekking industry, where elephants spend countless hours giving tourists rides around Thailand.

One of the WWFT’s former trekking elephants is Pai Lin. She spent over 25 years giving rides to humans, sometimes being forced to carry six tourists at once on her back. Continued …

Pattaya, Hua Hin favorite getaways for Thai families – Agoda

Pattaya topped the list of holiday destinations for domestic travelers this year, followed by Hua Hin and its adjoining city Cha Am, search data collected by hotel booking platform Agoda shows.

Phuket, which is usually popular among foreigners, came in third.

According to Agoda’s insights, Thai families are most interested in vacationing in seaside towns this year. The 10 most searched local destinations by Thais are Pattaya, Hua Hin/Cha Am, Phuket, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chonburi, Khao Yai, Krabi, Rayong and Koh Samet, respectively. Continued …

Where you can pan for gold just two hours south of Hua Hin

Bang Saphan, located little over two hours from Hua Hin, is one of the few places in Thailand where you can still pan for gold.

The gold panning takes place in the river that runs through the Ron Thong subdistrict, and according to locals, the gold found in the area is of the best quality in the country.

Gold panning in Bang Saphan is a popular activity among locals, who see it as a way to supplement their income, but it is becoming increasingly popular with tourists and those seeking to try new experiences. Continued …

How much does hospitality contribute to Thailand’s economy?

Thailand is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, and the Thai economy benefits hugely from the multibillion-dollar tourism sector.

Renowned as one of the most beautiful locations in Asia, there is a plentiful mix of destinations in this magical country. If you want to visit a vast, sprawling city, Bangkok is the place to stay. However, if you prefer a traditional area with more of a cultural aspect to it, you can visit Chiang Mai in the north.

Island life is another area where the tourism industry is again returning to its full potential following the lockdown. You can visit Phi Phi and other regional islands, including Koh Tao and Koh Lanta. Continued …

Thai hotels recover as foreign tourists return in droves

Thailand’s hotel industry has seen a strong recovery following a surge in the return of foreign tourists, according to the international real estate consulting firm CBRE Thailand.

The positive trend in the tourism sector started last year and continued this year, resulting in increased hotel room occupancies, said Atakawee Choosang, head of hotels at CBRE Thailand.

He said that the trend was propelled by the return of Chinese tourists following China’s lifting of quarantine requirements for its nationals returning from overseas trips. Continued …

Upswing in bookings from China to Thailand

Newly released data from SiteMinder, the world’s leading open hotel commerce platform, highlights an increase in outbound reservation volumes to Thai properties from mainland China following the country’s relaxation of travel restrictions since Jan. 8.

SiteMinder has seen a 108% uptick in net reservations from Chinese travelers booking stays in Thailand since mid-December and a 37% increase globally.

Thailand, of the markets analyzed, is the country where reservations to SiteMinder properties are increasing the fastest, followed by Spain (84%), Vietnam (51%), Australia (51%), Singapore (44%), and the U.S. (43%). Continued …

Tubing on the river in Pai

Any lingering doubts about Thailand’s tourism recovery were washed away on Thursday when the meandering Pai River in Mae Hong Son became a traffic jam of floating foreigners.

TikTok user @RoritarChipmunk captured the scene in a video clip showing hundreds of tourists happily logjammed at the popular Pai attraction. Continued …

Video 

Thai Airways rides Asia’s travel reopening back to profit

Thai Airways International’s operating profit swung back to the black in 2022, the carrier reported Friday, as passenger revenue recovered thanks to the easing of coronavirus restrictions.

Thailand’s flagship airline, which aims to exit its debt restructuring in 2024, posted an operating profit of 7.7 billion baht ($220 million) for the year, rebounding from a year-earlier loss of 19.7 billion baht.

Revenue jumped more than fourfold on the year to 105 billion baht, helping absorb higher fuel costs. Passenger numbers grew 5.5-fold to 9.01 million, while revenue from ticket sales and baggage was up more than 13-fold at 74 billion baht. Continued …

Carriers upbeat on recovery prospects

Airlines are optimistic about recovery this year, with an expansion of services to China being a key driver, following a significant improvement in 2022, particularly during the fourth quarter.

Santisuk Klongchaiya, chief executive of SET-listed Asia Aviation (AAV) and Thai AirAsia (TAA), said after resuming China routes in January this year, the airline expects to regain 28% of pre-Covid-pandemic capacity to the mainland within the first quarter. The company plans to ramp up services to China to 40 flights per week this quarter. Continued …

Thai Smile-THAI merger ‘to cut losses’

Thai Airways International (THAI) revealed on Friday that Thai Airways is merging Thai Smile Airways with THAI to reduce losses.

It said the plan is expected to be approved by the end of this year.

Piyasvasti Amranand, chairman of THAI’s committee overseeing the airline’s rehabilitation, said the restructuring had been in the cards for a while. Continued …

Thai iced tea: a global success story brewed over 4 centuries

Thai iced tea has been ranked the seventh-best non-alcoholic drink in the world by foodie website TasteAtLas.com. The caramel-colored cooling beverage has long been popular with Thais of all ages.

However, its fame is now spreading across the world, as tourists who get a taste in Thailand seek out the stuff when they return to their home countries.

Thai iced tea beat competition from India’s famed Darjeeling brew and Italy’s ultra-intense espresso in the website’s survey. Continued …

Airbnb in Thailand: Remote Eco-Villa Floating on a Lake in Kanchanaburi

Even though I’ve called Thailand home for the better part of a decade, every year I discover something new that make me as giddy as I was when I first visited in 2011.

During a recent weekend trip with my wife and four-year-old son, I felt it again: that bubbly feeling in my stomach, the wondrous thrill of seeing a place for the very first time.

I was on top of a hill overlooking the Srinakarin Lake, a mountain-fringed water reservoir in Thailand’s Kanchanaburi province. In front of us, the lake fanned out like a giant mirror, speckled with a handful of jungled islets and back-dropped by a horizon of mountains in the hazy blue distance. Squinting my eyes, I could almost imagine myself in the coastal regions of southern Thailand. Continued …

Bangkok beyond the bustle: Where to eat, shop and explore in Thailand’s capital

From its glittering, gold-embellished temples to the multitude of sprawling markets, Bangkok feels like a flurry of intensity for all the senses. Yet, the huge city of around 10 million people also has serene corner and a more relaxed pace, as I discovered on my travels this winter.

You can slow down to admire the art and design, linger over a leisurely Michelin-starred meal, or browse for hours in a cool, new shopping alley. Once you’ve hit all the iconic landmarks, here are a few more places that will have you wishing you’d booked a longer trip here.

For upscale dining: Paste

Chef Bee Satongun, named Asia’s best female chef by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2018, specializes in recreating ancient Thai recipes at her Michelin-starred spot, Paste. While this will likely be the most expensive restaurant you’ll experience in Bangkok, you will regret nothing. Continued …

If You’re New To Cooking Thai Food, Taste As You Go

Learning a new cuisine can be both fun and maybe (a tad) intimidating. When recreating your favorite Thai dishes like pad Thai, larb, tom yum soup, or even blending an authentic curry paste from scratch, there’s a vital cooking practice to remember as you follow a recipe.

Every ingredient and every finalized dish is different. Even when following the same recipe, you’re bound to find a slight variation in flavor profile and heat level with every finished dish. Unlike other styles of cooking, Thai food prides itself on the ability to bring a balance to a dish that is rich in sweetness, savoriness, saltiness, sourness, and hotness.

According to Chef Jet Tila, the combination of these flavors is referred to as yum in Thai cuisine. So how do you make sure that both you and your guests sharing in your meal have the perfect Thai yum experience? Taste your dish as you go. Continued …

The healing power of cannabis in Thai herbal medicine

Want to explore new ways to heal your body and mind? Then Thailand’s thriving medical cannabis clinics are your answer. Since the legalization of cannabis in 2022, these clinics have popped up all over the country, offering innovative treatments for a variety of ailments.

But wait, what exactly is Thai herbal medicine, and how does cannabis fit in? Well, let’s dive into the fascinating world of this ancient practice and explore how medical cannabis clinics are changing the game.

Thai herbal medicine has been a key part of Thai culture for centuries, with roots in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. The practice emphasizes the use of natural remedies to treat various ailments, from headaches to digestive issues to chronic pain. Continued …

‘They brought war, and I don’t know why’ – Kherson resident on frontline life

The south-Ukrainian frontline city of Kherson suffers from regular shell fire since Russian troops left more than three months ago. But high hopes that the city’s return to Ukrainian control would bring normalcy have not materialized. On Tuesday, the central square was deserted. Continued … 

EU agrees new sanctions over Russia’s war in Ukraine

The EU agreed to a new round of sanctions over Russia’s war in Ukraine on Friday, the one-year anniversary of Moscow’s invasion, the bloc’s Swedish presidency announced. Continued … 

G7 threatens Russia sanctions busters with ‘severe costs’

G7 leaders, joined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, met in a virtual summit Friday and issued a stern warning to countries helping Russia evade international sanctions. Continued …

Ericsson to cut 8,500 jobs worldwide

Telecom equipment maker Ericsson said Friday it would slash 8,500 jobs worldwide, part of a cost-cutting program as financial headwinds push operators to rein in spending. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

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

Wednesday’s News-Feb 1

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

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Cha Am Bikini Beach Run March 19

Dust levels unsafe in 53 provinces, including PKK

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

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

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

Power bills poised to drop by mid-year

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thailand’s corruption standing for 2022 an improvement over 2021

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

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

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

Thailand Elite Card embroiled in scandal over suspicious Chinese businesses

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

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

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

Cabinet approves adjustments to basic daily wages for 17 professions

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

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

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

Thailand to boycott SEA Games Muay Thai after Cambodia changes name

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

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

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

BMA hospitals going solar as Bangkok targets net zero emissions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More than 200,000 Tourists Visit Samui Island in January

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s check out the actual statistics. Continued …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

German Man Missing After Jumping From Ferry Near Phangan Island

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

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

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

Pirate-themed floating restaurant seating 100 sinks off Pattaya

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

Qatar Airways launches thrice daily flights to Phuket

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

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

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

These 11 Ancient Temples In Thailand Have Stories To Tell

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

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

Wat Phra Kaew

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

Experience luxury at these 8 Bangkok riverside hotels

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

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

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

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

Beijing reaches ‘temporary herd immunity’

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

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

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

Southeast Asia factories fire up as China reopens

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

Trees could cut urban heatwave mortality by a third

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

US hits Myanmar with new sanctions on coup 2nd anniversary

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

49 boys drown in Pakistan boating accident

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

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, hospitality, hua hin, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-Jan 28

  • Thailand Open underway at True Arena/
  • Wet, windy weekend forecast for south of Thailand/
  • U-Tapao Airport upgrade to start/
  • Finance Ministry raises 2023 growth forecast to 3.8%/
  • Prachin Buri plantations raided by 80 wild elephants looking for food/
  • Bangkok police arrest ‘Deaf Gang’ for string of nighttime thefts/
  • Volvo targets 100% electric vehicle sales by 2025/
  • Tourism: Taiwanese actress hits back at RTP – Thailand’s great but your ‘unclean’ police are not/Thai police hit back over ‘drunk’ Taiwanese actress’s extortion claim/Nothing happened to back Taiwanese actress’s extortion claim, says cabbie/CCTV ‘contradicts’ Taiwan actress’ extortion claims/Russian Tourists Spearhead Foreign Arrivals in Phuket/Pattaya operating at near full capacity/
  • Thailand Experience: The best wellness retreats in Thailand, two in Hua Hin/Scenic train routes in Thailand/20 best beaches in Thailand/Head inland to Surat Thani to enjoy Thailand/
  • International: UN: Myanmar situation ‘catastrophic’/Ukrainian MP expelled over trip to Thailand/France to probe microplastic pollution on beaches/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thailand Open underway at True Arena

For the first time in three years, the WTA Thailand Open in Hua Hin will return to the calendar. The WTA 250 event will run between Jan. 30 and Feb. 5. Less than a few days after the completion of the Australian Open, the stars of women’s tennis head to Asia for a frantic February.

Let us take an in-depth look at the entry list, ticketing options, live streaming details, and our betting predictions for the Thailand Open.

The 2023 WTA Thailand Open will be played in Hua Hin district at the True Arena Sports Complex. It is the largest multipurpose sports hub in the seaside resort town of Hua Hin. Continued … 

Wet, windy weekend forecast for south of Thailand

Heavy rain and surging tides are forecast for the weekend in the south of Thailand, with strong winds hitting the Gulf, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said.

In a weather warning on Saturday, the department said a strong northeast monsoon is prevailing over the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. This condition will bring heavy rain to the lower south on today and tomorrow.

Affected areas include Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Trang and Satun. Strong winds will create 2 to 4-meter-high waves in the Gulf, which will become higher during thundershowers, while the Andaman Sea will also see 2-meter or higher waves. – The Nation

U-Tapao Airport upgrade to start

The upgrade of U-Tapao Airport and construction of the Eastern Aviation City in Rayong province will start early this year.

The projects are expected to deliver returns of over 300 billion baht in the first five years of operation, a senior government official said on Friday.

Deputy government spokesperson Tipanan Sirichana said on Friday that during the first five years, about 62 billion baht was expected in tax revenue, in addition to creating about 15,600 new jobs per year. Continued …

Finance Ministry raises 2023 growth forecast to 3.8%

The Finance Ministry on Friday raised the growth forecast for Thailand this year from 3% to 3.8%, citing a near 150% year-on-year rise in tourist arrivals, as well as higher than expected domestic consumption as the main factors.

Declining fuel prices and weakening demand in key export markets, however, will help offset inflationary pressure, said Pornchai Thiraveja, the ministry’s spokesperson and director of its Fiscal Policy Committee.

He said the surge in tourists will primarily be from other Asian countries. Continued …

Prachin Buri plantations raided by 80 wild elephants looking for food

Local officials closed a road in Chachoengsao province on Friday in an attempt to prevent over 80 wild elephants from feeding on cash crops.

A section of Ban Na Yao Road was closed to traffic, as a large group of administrative officials and military officers attempted to chase the elephants back to the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, from where the animals had escaped.

Sapthawee Kulsaree, chief executive of the Tha Kradan Tambon Administrative Organization in Chachoengsao, said that failure to push the elephants back would result in damage to plantations. Continued … 

Bangkok police arrest ‘Deaf Gang’ for string of nighttime thefts

Sutthisan police in downtown Bangkok arrested a gang of four deaf people for burglaries. They all had police records and had stolen motorcycles.

The police had received a report of trespass from a caretaker of a property in Samsen Nork, Huay Khwang.

The four men were caught red-handed rifling through property at the house. Continued …

Volvo targets 100% electric vehicle sales by 2025

Volvo Car (Thailand) has set itself the ambitious target of selling only electric vehicles by 2025, five years ahead of the company’s global target of 2030.

Chris Wailes, managing director of Volvo Car (Thailand), told a media briefing on Friday that he sees strong demand for electric vehicles (EV) in Thailand, and the trend would continue to grow significantly.

He cited the rapid improvement of EV-related infrastructure, such as charging stations, and people’s environmental awareness, as well as the high price of fossil fuel. He believes these factors would encourage more Thais to switch to EVs. Continued …

Taiwanese actress hits back at RTP – Thailand great but ‘unclean’ police are not

The Taiwanese actress at the center of claims that she and her friends were extorted out of 27,000 baht in a nighttime shakedown at the hands of the Thai police in Huay Khwang, Bangkok, has hit back at suggestions that she was somehow in the wrong.

In a feisty post on Instagram in which she indicated she had already spoken to “Interpol”, the celebrity known as Charlene An in English told the RTP to “stop talking trash”.

She claimed they are having a go at her in order to appear innocent and hide their wrong-doing. Continued … 

Thai police hit back over ‘drunk’ Taiwanese actress’s extortion claim

Thai police on Thursday denied a Taiwanese actress’s claims of extortion, retorting that she was detained because she could not produce a passport.

Taiwanese actress Charlene An (An Yu-Qing) said she and her friends were victims of a police shakedown early this month while on holiday in Bangkok. Her claim has made national headlines in Taiwan, to the dismay of Thai tourism operators.

The actress said police stopped their taxi at a checkpoint close to the Chinese Embassy on Ratchadaphisek Road on the night of Jan. 4 and detained the group for two hours. She said the police eventually released her and her friends in return for a payment of 27,000 baht. Continued …

Nothing happened to back Taiwanese actress’s extortion claim, says cabbie

The Grab taxi driver who picked up a group of Taiwanese tourists and delivered them to their hotel in Bangkok’s Ratchadaphisek area provided testimony to police on Friday.

“I can remember the woman (Charlene An) on the news,” he said, adding that the woman appeared drunk as she argued with her friends in the taxi.

He said all the passengers were talking to each other in Chinese, except the man in the front seat next to him, who was able to speak a little Thai. Continued …

CCTV ‘contradicts’ Taiwan actress’ extortion claims

Footage from three security cameras in the area where a Taiwanese actress claimed Thai police extorted 27,000 baht from her contradicts her account of the incident, the Royal Thai Police (RTP) said on Friday.

The footage was from a camera installed outside the Chinese embassy on Ratchadaphisek Road and the other two cameras were on a pedestrian bridge that capture the corner of the alley where the actress claimed she paid money to the police, RTP spokesman, Maj. Gen. Archayon Kraithong said. Continued …

Russian Tourists Spearhead Foreign Arrivals in Phuket

Phuket is seeing more activities from tourists, as tourism is now at 50% compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand office in Phuket.

Nantasiri Ronsiri Thursday said that the number of visitors to Phuket from January to December totaled 9.26 million, with 53.6% being domestic tourists and 46.4% being international tourists, pumping into Phuket 233.38 billion baht in tourism revenue throughout the year.

“Before the pandemic, Phuket had a tourism revenue of 400 billion baht,” said Nantasiri, “And now we are at 200 billion baht, so that means a 50% recovery.” Continued …

Pattaya operating at near full capacity

Pattaya is now close to pre-COVID levels of tourism, according to the Pattaya Tourism Assn.

The association stated that many hotels, restaurants and other businesses in the area are now operating at near full capacity.

The association attributed the increase in tourism to the Thai government’s efforts to control the spread of COVID-19, including the implementation of strict health protocols and the vaccination of key workers in the tourism industry. Continued … 

Chiva-som Hua Hin

The best wellness retreats in Thailand, two in Hua Hin

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and embark on a journey of rejuvenation and self-discovery at some of the best wellness retreats in Thailand.

These idyllic destinations offer the perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation, whether you’re looking for a yoga retreat to reconnect with your inner self or a detox program to cleanse your body and mind.

The Southeast Asian country is known for its traditional medicine and healing practices, such as traditional Thai massage and Ayurvedic treatments. The country’s rich culture and natural beauty also provide the perfect backdrop for a wellness getaway. Add to that its warm and welcoming people, and you’ll definitely feel right at home. Continued …

Scenic train routes in Thailand

Trains allow you a slower pace of life, time to look out the windows and enjoy the journey you’re on, a front-row seat to different sceneries.

Whether you’re a train buff or just looking for a new way to explore Thailand, here’s a list of the most scenic railway routes and stations, most being destinations in their own right. Of course, they work as pit stops for photogenic content along the way.

Hua Hin Railway Station, Prachuap Khiri Khan

Hua Hin, a popular seaside destination, is known for its scenic beaches and laid-back atmosphere. But what many may not know is that the town’s prosperity is deeply tied to the train. Of all the many Hua Hin attractions, the most original and iconic is the Hua Hin railway station. Continued …

20 best beaches in Thailand

There is no denying that Thailand has the most beautiful islands in the world, and on those islands you’ll find breathtaking beaches. With endless miles of white sand lining the coast of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, it can be difficult to choose which are the best beaches in Thailand to suit your needs, but we are here to help.

Railey Beach, Krabi

Thailand kicked off our travels 23 years ago and we continue to put The Land of Smiles at the top of our favorite places on earth. After revisiting it this past November, we were reminded once again of its beauty and want to help you plan your next trip to the beautiful beaches of Thailand.

With soft white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, surrounded by limestone sea cliffs, nothing can compare to a Thai beach holiday. These are the best Thailand beaches to add to your bucket list now! Continued … 

Head inland to Surat Thani to enjoy Thailand

What comes to mind if you are planning to visit Thailand? Beautiful sea views, island hopping, or tom yum soup? Why not leave those ideas behind and try something fresh,such as an inland tour to discover a different Thailand?

In the south Thailand province of Surat Thani, you will experience another side of Thailand. Granted the name from King Rama IV, Surat Thani means “city of the good people”. Most Chinese tourists are fascinated by the province’s islands, such as Koh Samui and Koh Tao.

But few have explored its amazing inland,which includes one of the oldest evergreen rainforests in the world — Khao Sok National Park — or the magnificent Buddhist temples in the Khao Na Nai Luang Dharma Park, and boat trips along the rivers. Continued … 

UN: Myanmar situation ‘catastrophic’

Nearly two years after Myanmar’s military coup, the country has plunged into catastrophe, the UN rights chief says, calling for the military to be brought under civilian oversight. Continued … 

Ukrainian MP expelled over trip to Thailand

Ukraine’s ruling party has kicked out a lawmaker from its parliamentary faction after reports that he had traveled to Thailand during the grinding war with Russia sparked a public outcry. Continued … 

France to probe microplastic pollution on beaches

French prosecutors said on Friday they would investigate the appearance of vast quantities of tiny toxic plastic pellets along the Atlantic coast that endanger marine life and the human food chain. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

cha am, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Jan 25

  • Cha Am pedestrian overpass finally completed/Fine increased for zebra crossing violations/New wall for Hua Hin Hospital to mute train sounds/February flight schedule for Hua Hin AirportThailand Open at True Arena starts Saturday/Krung Thep Aphiwat: All aboard the ‘smart’ future of Thai rail travel/Budget for four more months of power subsidy approved/Songkran on UNESCO list as intangible cultural heritage/80 immigration police face charges for accepting money to extend visas/Malaysian victims accuse Royal Thai Police of soliciting bribes of over 100,000 baht/Bangkok administration urges working from home due to air quality/Thai military’s ties to Myanmar junta compromising efforts to resolve crisis/Thailand’s 50 Richest in 2023/Thai exports fell for third successive month in December/Record-breaking year for Thai movie industry/Thief leaves an apology note in Chiang Mai/Thailand, US team on climate change initiative/MP says cannabis helps reduce meth addicts in Bangkok/
  • Tourism: More European tourists than Chinese in Hua Hin/Thailand Sees About 25%-30% of Chinese Tour Group Bookings/Thailand VIP packages offered on Chinese e-commerce platform/Outcry over police VIP airport escort service/Chinese New Year generates at least 2.6B baht in tourism revenue for Phuket/Cabinet approves 5th phase of tourism subsidy scheme/
  • Thailand Experience: 20+ places to check out in Bangkok’s Chinatown/Cooking Thai food at home: Tips and tricks/
  • Covid: Covid-19 vaccine available for foreigners nationwide/
  • International: US poised to approve sending Abrams tanks to Ukraine/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Cha Am pedestrian overpass finally completed

A pedestrian overpass has finally opened in Cha Am, built over safety concerns for Hup Khapong villagers, especially school children crossing Phetchakasim Road. It took 19 years, but yesterday officials welcomed the opening of the overpass. Many agencies and local people cooperated for the project to be completed to reduce road accidents and increase safety in the area. (RCR)

Fine increased for zebra crossing violations

Motorists who fail to stop their vehicles for pedestrians at zebra crossings face a maximum fine of 4,000 baht and have one point deducted from their driving license immediately under the new law.

Previously, the fine was 1,000 baht.

Deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the new law, which was put into effect on Jan. 9, increases penalties and adopts the point deduction system to ensure the safety of pedestrians at zebra crossings. Continued …

New wall for Hua Hin Hospital to mute train sounds

A new wall is being constructed behind Hua Hin Hospital, which will result in a one-way traffic system from Jan. 26.

The concrete wall be built between Soi 10 and Soi 14.

The ‘sound proof wall’ is being built to reduce the impact of noise from the new train line.

Thailand Open at True Arena starts Saturday

Krung Thep Aphiwat: All aboard the ‘smart’ future of Thai rail travel

Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal was touted as the “smart” future of rail travel in Thailand on Tuesday, days after it took over as the national hub from the century-old Hua Lamphong station.

Krung Thep Aphiwat “is considered the first smart railway station in ASEAN, with facilities, such as robots called SRT Bots, smart wheelchairs and smart closed-circuit television cameras,” government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said.

It also connects with Bangkok’s urban train and bus system to provide seamless travel links to the rest of the city, he added. Continued …

Budget for four more months of power subsidy approved

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved a budget of 7.5 billion baht as subsidy for household use of electricity for four more months.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said the subsidy would be given to household users of electricity from January to April.

A household must not use more than 300 units of electricity to be eligible for the subsidy, he added. Continued …

Songkran on UNESCO list as intangible cultural heritage

UNESCO has included the Songkran festival in a tentative list to be considered as Thailand’s intangible cultural heritage.

Thailand now has four items awaiting consideration at the end of this year — Khon, traditional Thai massage, Nora, and Songkran.

Intangible cultural heritage is considered by member states of UNESCO in relation to the tangible World Heritage focusing on intangible aspects of culture. Continued …

80 immigration police face charges for accepting money to extend visas

About 80 immigration police officers, including three generals, face disciplinary and criminal charges for allegedly extending visas for Chinese nationals involved in “gray’ businesses in Thailand in exchange for financial gain, according to Police Gen. Surachate Hakparn, the deputy national police chief.

He said all the suspects have been questioned and police investigators are expected to meet on Monday to conclude the case and submit the findings to the police inspector-general for further action.

He maintains that there are no exceptions being made for the three police generals allegedly involved, despite the fact that they were his classmates at the police academy, noting that their cases will also be sent to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Continued …

Malaysian victims accuse Royal Thai Police of soliciting bribes of over 100,000 baht

Two Malaysian victims told local media that corrupt Royal Thai Police solicited bribes of 100,000 baht to return their stolen cars, which were taken from their native country and driven to Thailand.

The Malaysian news agency, The Star, reported that the cars were stolen from Malaysia and shipped to Thailand. The media also added that RTP officers were involved in the car smuggling. Continued …

Bangkok administration urges working from home due to air quality

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has sought cooperation from the public and private sectors by allowing their staff to work from home tomorrow, in anticipation of poor air quality in the city, which may reach health-threatening levels.

BMA officials and the Pollution Control Department met on Tuesday to discuss the air pollution problem, caused by the accumulation of PM2.5 dust in the atmosphere, which is likely to worsen on Thursday due poor air circulation.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt said that the amount of PM2.5 in the atmosphere in the capital has been increasing over the past two days, although the situation improved slightly Tuesday due to strong winds. Continued …

Thai military’s ties to Myanmar junta compromising efforts to resolve crisis

Thailand’s lenient stance, as well as the close ties between its armed forces and the Myanmar military — also known as Tatmadaw — would undermine the efforts of ASEAN and the international community to ease the ongoing crisis in that country, according to many independent observers.

Thousands of people have died in the neighboring country and over a million have been displaced since a military coup on Feb. 1, 2021.

The latest move that raised eyebrows in international circles was a meeting between the chief of Thailand’s Defense Forces, Chalermphon Srisawasdi, and Minister Aung Hlaing, the top commander of the Tatmadaw, at a resort in Myanmar’s strife-torn Rakhine state from Jan. 19-21. Continued …

Thailand’s 50 Richest in 2023

Thailand is home to a number of extremely wealthy individuals, many of whom have made their fortunes through a variety of industries including real estate, finance, and retail. As of 2023, the 50 richest persons in Thailand have a combined net worth of over $150 billion.

Leading the list is Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, a Thai businessman and founder of the TCC Group, one of Thailand’s largest conglomerates. With a net worth of $9.8 billion, Sirivadhanabhakdi has a diverse portfolio that includes real estate, beverages, and retail.

Coming in second is Dhanin Chearavanont, the chairman of the Charoen Pokphand Group, one of the largest conglomerates in Thailand, with interests in agriculture, retail, and telecommunications. Chearavanont has a net worth of $9.1 billion. Continued … 

Thai exports fell for third successive month in December

Thai exports fell for a third consecutive month in December, but the 2022 total rose 5.5% year-on-year to US$287.06 billion (9.406 trillion baht), according to the Commerce Ministry.

Total imports last year rose 13.6%, leading to a trade deficit of $16.122 billion (528.56 billion baht).

December saw exports contract 14.6% year-on-year, while imports shrank 12%, generating a trade deficit of US$1.03 billion (33.85 billion baht). Continued …

Record-breaking year for Thai movie industry

The Thailand Film Office (TFO) reported 2022 was a record-breaking year for the Thai movie industry despite a sluggish start to the new calendar year because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The TFO compiled a list of impressive statistics for filming foreign movies in the Land of Smiles for 2022.

It recorded that film crews shot 348 different types of movies and generated a record-breaking 6.4 billion baht, the highest since the TFO collected foreign film shooting statistics in Thailand. Continued … 

Thief leaves an apology note in Chiang Mai

A thief stole over 12,000 baht from an electrical appliances store in Chiang Mai province in northern Thailand on Sunday morning and left behind a note apologizing for his crime.

CCTV footage captures a masked assailant, a man estimated to be around 30 years old, breaking into an electrical appliance store next to Wat Tha Mai-i Temple in Chiang Mai’s Mueang district at 1am. Continued …

Thailand, US team on climate change initiative

U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert Godec and Dr. Karen M. St. Germain, Earth Science Division director at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), have launched the SERVIR-Southeast Asia program – a collaboration between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and NASA – to help communities across Southeast Asia adapt to regional and transboundary climate issues and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

“This new program expands the geographic focus of SERVIR in Southeast Asia and deepens our engagement with regional institutions to accelerate climate resilience,” said Godec. “SERVIR-Southeast Asia will go a long way to ensure that communities and businesses throughout Thailand and across ASEAN are not only resilient to the impacts of climate change, but prosper in spite of these challenges.” Continued … 

MP says cannabis helps reduce meth addicts in Bangkok

Bhumjaithai Party MP Suphachai Jaismut says the legalizing of cannabis has led to a decrease in the use of methamphetamine (also known as Yaba) in Bangkok.

The Bhumjaithai Party MP admitted that he never expected legalizing cannabis would decrease the use of methamphetamine. He initially focused on its potential medical benefits and didn’t consider this possible outcome.

However, he stated that he had come to believe in the connection between cannabis legalization and decreased Yaba use based on information provided to him by community leaders. Continued … 

More European tourists than Chinese in Hua Hin

More European tourists are making their way back to Thailand’s coastal paradise of Hua Hin than Chinese tourists, according to officials. The vice president of the Thai Hotel Assn. Said most of Hua Hin’s tourists are European, from Scandinavia, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and Germany.

The vice president,Udo m Srimahachota, said the number of foreign tourists is expected to rise throughout the year. He said the number of Chinese tourists will be small compared to the number of tourists from other countries. He noted that Chinese tourists prefer to visit Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket.

Udom said foreign tourists now make up around 60% of all tourists in Hua Hin, Thai media reported. He said foreign tourists flooded Hua Hin’s beaches, hotels, restaurants, and gift shops this past weekend. Continued …

Thailand Sees About 25%-30% of Chinese Tour Group Bookings

After China approved overseas group tours to resume to several countries, including Thailand, from Feb. 6, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has seen about 25%-30% of Chinese tour group bookings.

TAT deputy governor of marketing for Asia and South Pacific, Thanet Phetsuwan, said Thailand is among 20 countries approved by China for outbound tour groups.

The TAT joined hands with leading Chinese tour agencies to prepare for tour package sales in major cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Kunming next month. Continued …

Thailand VIP packages offered on Chinese e-commerce platform

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) insists no VIP service packages, or fast passes, have been made available for purchase in China, despite a Thai travel blogger revealing that those services and elite visas are indeed available to buy on the Chinese e-commerce platform Taobao.

Thai police are already under fire over the video of three police officers escorting a female Chinese tourist and her mother from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to a hotel in Pattaya.

The Chinese woman stated in the video that she booked an airport transfer service with an agency and that agency urged her to pay more to get a better, more convenient service provided by the Royal Thai Police (RTP). Continued …

Outcry over police VIP airport escort service

Tourism operators have slammed the Thai police VIP escort service sold online in China, saying the move severely damaged the image of Thailand.
Continued …

Chinese New Year generates at least 2.6B baht in tourism revenue for Phuket

The Tourism Authority of Thailand says Phuket generated at least 2.6 billion baht in tourism revenue during the recent Chinese New Year holiday. This will come as a much-needed boost for the island’s recovering tourism sector, which was crippled by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The real test will now be if the return of Chinese travelers extends past the Chinese New Year holiday, but new flights are being added each week, so a slow rise of Chinese tourism is expected throughout this year.

Nanthasiri Ronnasiri, director of the TAT’s Phuket office, says the island welcomed 150,000 domestic and international tourists during the recent Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) holiday. Continued …

Cabinet approves 5th phase of tourism subsidy scheme

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved the fifth phase of the tourism subsidy scheme, with a budget of 2.016 billion baht, Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after the weekly Cabinet meeting, Phiphat said the Cabinet had approved the fifth phase of the Rao Thiew Duay Kan (We Travel Together) scheme, as well the budget for the subsidy.

Phiphat said the government expected to allow Thai tourists to register for the subsidy from next month. The ministry forecast that the subsidy rights would be grabbed by some 112,000 people and the program would generate tourism revenue of 12.539 billion baht. Continued …

20+ places to check out in Bangkok’s Chinatown

From a legendary 60-year-old braised goose stall and an authentic Hakka hole-in-the-wall to emerging hip businesses, there’s a side of Chinatown that retains and extends its charm.

Soi Song Wat, a historic road in the capital’s old town, is also a lesser-known hidden gem great for foodies and arts and culture fiends. The road’s name, which literally means “drawn by the king,” was built during the reign of King Rama V, who ordered the road’s construction (it’s said that the king himself wrote the line with a pencil on the map).

The century-old road runs along the Chao Phraya River for one kilometer and contains a mix of old and new — from colonial-style shophouses, street food stalls and long-standing restaurants to modern hostels, minimalist cafes, and laid-back bars. It can be reached from MRT Sam Yot or MRT Wat Mangkon. Continued …

Cooking Thai food at home: Tips and tricks

Do you love Thai food? Have you ever wanted to try and cook it at home? Well, you’re in luck! Thai food is incredibly flavorful, and it’s not as difficult to make as you might think. Here are some tips and tricks to help you cook Thai food in your own kitchen.

The first thing you need to do is to make sure that your pantry is well-stocked with the essential Thai ingredients so you’ll be ready to cook authentic Thai dishes whenever you like. Remember, Thai food is sweet, salty, and sour. In order to achieve this balance of flavors, you’ll need all the right ingredients. Here is a list of must-have ingredients to cook authentic Thai food.

1. Fish sauce

First, you need to make sure you have fish sauce, which is made from fermented fish. This is an essential ingredient used in many Thai dishes. It has a salty, umami flavor and is used to add depth to dishes such as curries, stir-fries, and noodles. If you can’t find fish sauce, you can use soy sauce as a substitute. Continued …

Covid-19 vaccine available for foreigners nationwide

The Public Health Ministry plans for at least one Covid-19 vaccination center per province for foreign tourists paying for shots, while foreign residents will continue to get free jabs. Continued …

US poised to approve sending Abrams tanks to Ukraine

The United States, in a reversal, is poised to start a process that would eventually send dozens of M1 Abrams battle tanks to Ukraine, two U.S. officials said Tuesday. Such a decision by the United States would come just days after Washington argued against sending the Abrams, despite demands from Kyiv and public pressure from Berlin as it faced calls to send German-made Leopard battle tanks. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-Jan 24

  • Thailand’s weather turns cooler/
  • Has your phone been hacked? Here’s how you can check/
  • How long can a healthy human live?/
  • Thailand hopes to conclude free-trade agreement with EU/
  • Man sleeps in tent with deadly cobra all night/
  • Tourism: 8.6 million tourists to PKK in a year/Chinese national, tour operator to be questioned in police escort scandal/Thailand to use the “5Fs” of soft power to promote tourism/Thailand’s dependence on tourism means losing passport wars/Inequity in travel restrictions handicaps those legally traveling from ‘global south’/
  • Thailand Experience: Exploring the streets of Thailand: A foodie’s guide to street food/
  • Covid: Airport testing shows Covid numbers on arrival ‘very low’, departures not so good/
  • International: Myanmar rebels attack town near Thailand border/China key to aviation’s recovery/Kremlin says Ukrainians will suffer if Europe sends tanks/Erdogan warns Sweden on NATO after Koran burning/Vinyl records sales boom in Singapore, worldwide/Sea spiders can regrow body parts, not just limbs/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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

Thailand’s weather turns cooler

With the exception of the south, the rest of Thailand will experience colder weather from today, with temperatures forecast to drop from 3-5oC, Thailand’s Meteorological Department reported this morning.

The colder weather is attributable to the arrival of a new and strong cold front from China, now covering northern Laos and Vietnam, which is forecast to spread to Thailand’s north and northeast this afternoon.

In the north, the mercury is predicted to fall by 1-3oC, with minimum temperatures ranging from 11-14oC in the low lands and 2-10oC in mountainous areas. Frost may form in some places. Continued …

Has your phone been hacked? Here’s how you can check

The Police Cyber Taskforce has released advice on how Android smartphone users can check to see if their phone is being controlled by hackers remotely.

The advice was issued on Monday in response to reports that many smartphone users had fallen prey to hackers.

This usually happens when a user unwittingly downloads an application that installs malware in their phone. Continued …

How long can a healthy human live?

The death of the world’s oldest person at the age of 118 has reignited a debate that has divided scientists for centuries: is there a limit on how long a healthy human can live?

After French nun Lucile Randon died last week, Spanish great-grandmother Maria Branyas Morera, 115, has assumed the title of the oldest living person, according to Guinness World Records.

Back in the 18th century, French naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc, known as the Comte de Buffon, theorized that a person who had not suffered an accident or illness could live for a theoretical maximum of 100 years. Continued …

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

Thailand hopes to conclude free-trade agreement with EU

The European Union is ready to open free-trade agreement (FTA) talks with Thailand again after an eight-year political impasse.

Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Jurin Laksanawisit, will head to Brussels tomorrow for a two-day business trip to accelerate talks on an FTA with the EU.

Jurin states that a Thai-EU FTA is a highly sought-after deal by the private sector, but it remains a distant goal. Continued … 

Man sleeps in tent with deadly cobra all night

A Thai man is lucky to be alive after sleeping in a tent all night with a venomous cobra in Rayong province, eastern Thailand.

Dacha, from the northern province of Phitsanulok, posted photos yesterday of a snake slithering out of the tent he dissembled moments earlier at the Dok Krai reservoir in Rayong province.

He wrote the message, “It’s almost gone. I suspect that it slept with me all night. I just saw it as I took down the tent this morning.” Continued … 

8.6 million tourists to PKK in a year

Over the past year, a total of 8.6 million tourists (Thai and foreigners) visited Prachuap Khiri Khan, which generated more than 30 million baht in revenue, according to data from the Economic Division Department of Tourism.

Udom Srimahachota, vice president of the Thai Hotel Assn. (Western region), says foreign tourists currently account for approximately 60% of all tourists visiting the district. The majority of foreigners visiting Hua Hin are from Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and Germany, he said.

Most of the foreign tourists are elderly people and those with families.

The number of Chinese tourists visiting will be insignificant compared to tourists from other countries, Udom said, because they prefer Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Phuket.

Chinese national, tour operator to be questioned in police escort scandal

A tour operator and a Chinese tourist are to be invited in for questioning over controversial and unauthorized police escorts provided by Thai tourist and traffic police officers.

Police Maj-Gen. Archayon Kraithong, spokesman for the Royal Thai Police, said on Monday that two traffic police officers and a tourist police officer are now under investigation by their respective agencies for providing an escort to a female Chinese tourist.

He said that the tourist police officer, Captain Somphol Pinyosamosorn, picked up the Chinese tourist at Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok and escorted her, through a special immigration channel, out of the airport to a waiting car, which was then escorted by a traffic police officer on his motorcycle to her hotel in Bangkok. Continued …

Thailand to use the “5Fs” of soft power to promote tourism

Thailand plans to make full use of its soft power, which includes Thai boxing and food, in the hope of attracting more tourists to visit Thailand this year.

Acting government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said on Monday that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed all relevant government agencies to promote the tourism sector through the use of Thailand’s “5Fs”, which include Thai food, Thai films, Thai fashion, Thai boxing and Thai festivals.

For Thai food, Anucha said that the government will declare 2023 as the “Year of Thai Gastronomy”, during which the Bangkok International Food Festival will be held. The concept of “walking streets” will also be expanded. Continued … 

Thailand’s dependence on tourism means losing passport wars

For foreigners from the so-called “global north” traveling to Thailand, for the most part, they can just come whenever they please without the need of a visa for stays ranging from 45 to 90 days.

Yes, this includes travelers from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Schengen member states, whose governments all make it an ordeal for Thais to get a visa to go the opposite direction. The European Union claims that its policy is to achieve full reciprocity with non-EU countries so that citizens of both parties can travel easily.

While EU citizens have been able to travel to Thailand visa-free for as long as I can remember, there has been absolutely no signs that the EU intends to begin liberalizing visa requirements to the Schengen area for Thai nationals. Continued …

Inequity in travel restrictions handicaps those legally traveling from ‘global south’

This is not about pandemic travel restrictions. This is not about how expensive “global north” destinations are for Thai salaries. This is also not about the dangers of experiencing racial discrimination while traveling in white-majority countries.

This is about the endless bureaucratic and legal nightmare that haunts any Thai national who dares to travel abroad: applying for a visa.

As new iterations of “passport indexes” surface each year, they never fail to become a sensation on Thai social media or in the press that the “power” of the Thai passport continues to lag far behind that of other Asian countries or our ASEAN neighbors. According to the Henley Passport Index, the Thai passport ranks 68thfor travel convenience with visa-free access to 78 countries. Continued …

Exploring the streets of Thailand: A foodie’s guide to street food

Do you call yourself a foodie? Looking for a culinary adventure? Then you’ll love exploring the streets of Thailand! From the bustling night markets to the fragrant street stalls, Thailand is a foodie’s paradise.

In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the best street food that Thailand has to offer. So get ready for a delicious exploration of Thai street food.

First of all, let’s talk about what Thai street food is and why it’s so popular. Thai street food is food that is cooked in public areas and sold to people who are looking for a quick and tasty meal. It’s usually served on the side of the road, in food stalls, and even from carts. Street food is popular in Thailand because it’s cheap, convenient, and full of flavor. Continued … 

Airport testing shows Covid numbers on arrival ‘very low’, departures not so good

Five international travelers who arrived in the kingdom in the past two weeks tested positive for Covid-19, while 300-400 departing travelers, including Thais, were infected with the virus, according to health authorities.

In the second week of this month, following the arrival of the first travelers from China on Jan. 9, three foreign travelers were found to have the Covid-19 virus. Last week, another two infections, one of them from China, were discovered among international arrivals, according to Department of Disease Control (DoDC) director-general Tares Krassanairawiwong.

The government will maintain its current measures to safeguard against infections and continue to monitor the virus situation closely, he said. “There’s no cause for concern,” he added. Continued …

Myanmar rebels attack town near Thailand border

Thick smoke and flames were seen billowing above Myanmar’s Payathonzu township, opposite Sangkhla Buri district, as rebels attacked governmnt installations there on Monday night. Continued …

China key to aviation’s recovery

Asia-Pacific aviation could see faster recovery in terms of passengers this year, fueled by China’s reopening, as well as achieving a small profit in 2024, while pent-up demand from the mainland could help compensate slowing Western markets, according to the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA). Continued …

Kremlin says Ukrainians will suffer if Europe sends tanks

The Kremlin said on Monday that the Ukrainian people would suffer if the West sent tanks to support Kyiv, as the question of whether German-made Leopard tanks will be transferred to Ukraine remained unresolved. Continued …

Erdogan warns Sweden on NATO after Koran burning

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Sweden on Monday that it should not expect his backing to join NATO following the burning of the Koran outside Ankara’s embassy in Stockholm. Continued …

Vinyl records sales boom in Singapore, worldwide

People in Singapore may be eying a new record. No, like, actually looking at an actual record. According to a report by Luminate Data, a provider of data for the music industry, vinyl record sales have steadily grown for over a decade. This growth can be seen in the increasing number of record shops popping up in areas such as Kampung Glam, Peninsula Plaza, and Joo Chiat in Singapore. Continued … 

Sea spiders can regrow body parts, not just limbs

Sea spiders can regrow body parts after amputation and not just limbs, according to a study released on Monday that may pave the way for further scientific research into regeneration. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Jan 11

  • The World’s Most (and Least) Powerful Passports in 2023/World Bank: Recession a looming threat for global economy/Casino project to be reviewed tomorrow/SRT suspends scandal-hit signboard project at Bangkok’s central station/Banpu NEXT continues to provide solar power to electricity-deprived schools/Super-resistant mosquitoes in Asia pose growing threat/Friendship Bridge to Myanmar now ready for reopening/List of top herbs eyed for export/ID soon required to buy cannabis buds/
  • Tourism: Compulsory health insurance now not required/Krungthai Compass predicts 22.5M foreign arrivals in 2023/May 5 Announced as Special Public Holiday/Chinese heading to Phuket, Chiang Mai/
  • Thailand Experience: Fancy Thai desserts with odd names/7 must-see festivals in Thailand you don’t want to miss/Ghosts in Thailand: some eerie sites to explore/
  • Covid: Thailand’s Covid-19 numbers drop in first week of 2023/China targets Korea, Japan over Covid curbs/Mainland Chinese citizens are eager to travel — for the West’s mRNA Covid vaccines/
  • International: French pension reforms potentially explosive/Extreme weather caused $165 billion in US damage in 2022/NATO, EU vow more support for Ukraine/Russia hits Ukraine’s Kharkiv after German minister visits
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

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

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

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

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

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

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

Your deserve It!

The World’s Most (and Least) Powerful Passports in 2023

As we enter the new year, the latest results from the Henley Passport Index provide fascinating insights into a world characterized by extraordinary upheaval and offer a revealing look at what lies ahead.

For the fifth year running, Japan crowns the index, which is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA) and ranks all the world’s 199 passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.

Japanese citizens can now visit an astonishing 193 destinations out of 227 visa-free, while those of South Korea and Singapore, which are tied in second place, enjoy a visa-free/visa-on-arrival score of 192. Continued …

World Bank: Recession a looming threat for global economy

The global economy will come “perilously close” to a recession this year, led by weaker growth in all the world’s top economies — the United States, Europe and China, the World Bank warned on Tuesday.

In an annual report, the World Bank, which lends money to poorer countries for development projects, said it had slashed its forecast for global growth this year by nearly half, to just 1.7%, from its previous projection of 3%.

If that forecast proves accurate, it would be the third-weakest annual expansion in three decades, behind only the deep recessions that resulted from the 2008 global financial crisis and the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Continued …

Casino project to be reviewed tomorrow

A report by a special House committee studying the feasibility of allowing an entertainment complex to be built that includes legal casinos is expected to be deliberated tomorow, a member of the committee said yesterday.

Aimed at raising tax revenue from legalizing gambling businesses in a yet-to-be-designated area, the project has been studied by the House committee since late last year, added the source.

If approved, the report will be forwarded to the government for consideration, the person said. Continued … 

SRT suspends scandal-hit signboard project at Bangkok’s central station

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) abruptly suspended the scandal-hit 33-million-baht project to change signboards at Bangkok’s Bang Sue Grand Station on Tuesday.

SRT Gov. Nirut Maneephan signed the order to suspend the project, which includes changing the main signboard at Thailand’s new rail hub to “Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal”, the official name granted by His Majesty the King in September last year.

The order was addressed to the managing director of Unique Engineering and Construction Plc, which won the contract bidding with a proposed price of 33.16 million baht. The SET-listed company signed the contract with SRT on Dec. 29. Continued … 

Banpu NEXT continues to provide solar power to electricity-deprived schools

With a belief that “Learning is the Power of Change and Development”, Banpu NEXT is making continuous progress in its “Light & Learn” project by bringing solar power systems to electricity-deprived schools in remote areas to help light up learning opportunities and benefit the children.

Most recently, the company took its employees on a field visit to join forces with highland teaching volunteers on the solar power system and storage battery installation for Ban Po Por Kee HACLC in Tak Province and hold edutainment activities for the children, which creatively taught them to appreciate nature and clean energy.

Over the past five years, it has already installed solar power systems for 73 schools in Tak, Mae Hong Son, and Kanchanaburi provinces. Continued …

Super-resistant mosquitoes in Asia pose growing threat

Mosquitoes that transmit dengue and other viruses have evolved growing resistance to insecticides in parts of Asia, and novel ways to control them are desperately needed, new research warns.

Health authorities commonly fog mosquito-infested areas with clouds of insecticide, and resistance has long been a concern, but the scale of the problem was not well understood.

Japanese scientist Shinji Kasai and his team examined mosquitoes from several countries in Asia, as well as Ghana, and found a series of mutations had made some virtually impervious to popular pyrethroid-based chemicals like permethrin. Continued …

Friendship Bridge to Myanmar now ready for reopening

The Friendship Bridge linking Thailand and Myanmar reopens tomorrow, much to the delight of eager traders who have waited three years for the resumption of border trade stalled by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Provincial authorities held a meeting yesterday to prepare for the reopening of the bridge, which crosses the Moei River at Ban Rim Moei in Mae Sot district opposite Myawaddy in Myanmar.

Surapol Wongsukpisal, Tak deputy governor, led the meeting, also attended by Somchai Traithipchartsakul, Mae Sot district chief, and heads of the security and administrative agencies. Continued … 

List of top herbs eyed for export

The Public Health Ministry has unveiled its list of so-called “herbal champions”, but cannabis, hemp and kratom have been omitted, according to the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine.

Dr. Thongchai Lertwilairattanapong, the department chief, said yesterday the government plans to promote local herbs under the list and ideally develop them for export. Herbs on the list include turmeric, krachai dam or black galingal, and fah talai jone or green chiretta.

He said cannabis, hemp and kratom have not yet made the cut after a policy committee on national herbs led by Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul agreed recently that their use must be limited, adding further research and development is required. Continued … 

ID soon required to buy cannabis buds

Thai nationals seeking to purchase cannabis buds will soon have to show their ID cards, with sales information recorded on a government database, according to the Department for the Development of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM).

Thongchai Lertwilairattanapong, the department’s director-general, said he had signed the directive and it would take effect as soon as it is published in the Royal Gazette.

It is not known whether foreigners seeking to buy cannabis buds will have to show ID such as a passport. A recent health ministry publication, “10 Things Tourists Need to Know about Cannabis in Thailand”, makes no mention of any requirement. Continued …

Compulsory health insurance now not required

The public health minister, via the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, has canceled the requirement for foreign arrivals, from countries which require PCR tests on return, to have at least US$10,000 health insurance coverage for the duration of their holiday, plus seven days.

The requirement for proof of Covid vaccinations, to present while checking in for your flight to Thailand, has also been scrapped. It was in response to complaints from Thai tourism associations, foreign embassies and travel groups who say the measures, originally imposed on Jan. 7, would discourage many people from visiting Thailand.

Social media has been full of people being turned away at check-in, concerned travelers canceling trips and people just confused about the original regulations and then the sudden reversal of policy. Continued …

Krungthai Compass predicts 22.5M foreign arrivals in 2023

Krungthai Compass, a research unit under Krungthai Bank, expects foreign tourist arrivals in 2023 to more than double the number recorded last year, estimating it will take two years to return to the level posted in 2019.

The research house forecasts foreign arrivals this year to tally 22.5 million, up from 10.2 million expected for 2022.

Of the total, Krungthai Compass anticipates 4.8 million visitors will be Chinese nationals, a 20% increase from its previous forecast of 4 million, attributed to China’s reopening since Jan. 8 this year, said chief economist Patcharaphot Nuntramas. Continued …

May 5 Announced as Special Public Holiday

The government has announced May 5 as a special public holiday, creating a 4-day weekend break. The government hopes the long holiday will help boost the economy through various tourism activities.

During their weekly meeting, Cabinet members approved the decision to bridge the holiday gap between Coronation Day on Thursday, May 4, and the weekend.

Government spokesperson Traisuree Traisaranakul said the combined 4-day break is expected to help push forward economic activities, particularly in the business and tourism sectors. Continued …

Chinese heading to Phuket, Chiang Mai

Both Chiang Mai and Phuket are expecting to see a significant rise in air travel on direct flights from China from Jan. 18, according to local airport authorities.

There will be one direct flight daily from China to Chiang Mai and three a day to Phuket, with non-stop air links to keep rising between the two countries.

A flight between Shanghai and Chiang Mai is due to begin operating on Jan. 18, with another from Guangzhou to Chiang Mai to start two days later, Wichit Kaeosaithiam, the director of Chiang Mai airport, said yesterday. Continued …

Fancy Thai desserts with odd names

If you like unnecessarily posh names, you’ll love Ban Nong Bua, an old community in Thailand’s East.

The canal-side village in Chanthaburi province is drawing visitors and those with a sweet tooth for its desserts with strange names, including “Monkey Willy” (a mung bean rice crepe in a phallic shape). It’s a funny but tasty sweet that will have you searching for more idiosyncrasies of old-school cooks.

Located 10 kilometers south of Chanthaburi, the village of Ban Nong Bua has been home to Hainanese descendants for over 200 years. Their forefathers, seafarers, sailed from Hainan Island in Southern China to the horizon and eventually settled down along the mouth of the Chanthaburi River. Continued …

7 must-see festivals in Thailand you don’t want to miss

Songkran, Loi Krathong, Yi Peng, Loy Krathong Yipeng, Chak Phra and Rocket Festivals are some of the most popular traditional festivals celebrated in Thailand. Each festival has its own unique history and meaning and is celebrated with much enthusiasm and joy by both locals and tourists.

From the water fights of Songkran to the magical sight of sky lanterns during Yi Peng, each festival offers something special and memorable. At the Rocket Festival, the launching of handmade rockets is a symbol of asking the gods for bountiful rains and a good harvest. Celebrate the culture of Thailand and join in the festivities of these traditional festivals.

Songkran Festival

The Songkran Festival is an important event in Thailand and is celebrated with great enthusiasm by locals and tourists alike. The festival marks the start of the traditional Thai New Year and is celebrated with a variety of activities. Continued …

Ghosts in Thailand: some eerie sites to explore

Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich culture, but it also has a dark side. Thai culture has long believed in ghosts, some good, some bad.

A large percentage of people in modern life are still afraid of ghosts in Thailand and, as such, the country has some infamously haunted and eerie places. Here are a few of the ghostliest places in Thailand, where you might catch a glimpse of a phantom apparition:

The Old Phuket Town Ghost House

Located in the Old Phuket Town area, this abandoned house is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who committed suicide there. Visitors to the house have reported strange noises, unexplained movements, and even the feeling of being watched. Some have even claimed to have seen the ghost herself, often described as a woman with long, flowing hair and a sad expression on her face. Continued …

Thailand’s Covid-19 numbers drop in first week of 2023

Thailand’s Covid-19 situation appears to have improved, with the number of hospitalizations during the first week of this year falling by half from the previous week.

Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, director-general of the Department of Disease Control (DDC), said on Tuesday that 997 Covid patients had been hospitalized in the first week of January, averaging at about 142 per day. He said this was half the daily average compared to the last week of 2022, without elaborating.

As of press time, 382 Covid patients were in hospital for lung infections, while 242 of them were on ventilators. However, Tares said the number of lung infections and patients requiring ventilators has dropped by 28% and 30%, respectively, compared to the previous week. Continued …

China targets South Korea, Japan over Covid curbs

China has suspended issuing some visas for South Korea and Japan in Beijing’s first retaliation against Covid-related curbs on Chinese travelers.

Chinese consulates in South Korea will stop issuing short-term visas for visits, business, tourism, medical care, transit and personal matters from Tuesday, the Chinese Embassy in Seoul said in a statement.

The suspension will be adjusted if South Korea removes its “discriminative inbound restrictive measures” targeting China, it added. Continued …

Mainland Chinese citizens are eager to travel — for the West’s mRNA Covid vaccines

Mainland China’s move away from its zero-Covid policy has led to a sharp surge in infections, and the resumption of travel means some are looking farther afield for vaccines.

In mid-December, China’s full Covid vaccination rate stood near 87%, with 54% boosted. The main Covid vaccines approved for use in China are from Sinovac and Sinopharm.

Mainlanders have been flocking to Macao in recent months for Western mRNA vaccines, which are widely administered around the world but not endorsed by China. Continued …

French pension reforms potentially explosive

The French government is set to announce its proposals for overhauling the pension system on Tuesday, in a potentially explosive reform fraught with danger for President Emmanuel Macron. Continued … 

Extreme weather caused $165 billion in US damage in 2022

Major hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, drought and a fierce winter storm caused more than $165 billion in damage in the United States last year, with climate change “supercharging” some extreme weather, a government report said Tuesday. Continued … 

NATO, EU vow more support for Ukraine

NATO and the EU vowed Tuesday to bolster their backing for Ukraine to fight off Russia’s invasion and ramp up cooperation between Europe and the U.S.-led alliance. Continued … 

Russia hits Ukraine’s Kharkiv after German minister visits

Russian strikes hit eastern Ukraine’s city of Kharkiv late Tuesday, the regional governor said, just hours after a surprise visit by the German foreign minister with her Ukrainian counterpart. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

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

 

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