Tag Archives: narathiwat

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Saturday’s news-Oct 19

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Police Raid Two Bars in Hua Hin/950km coastal road project/iCon Group Fraud/iCon uproar knows no bounds/Stewed pork leg on rice/Moo Deng remains viral sensation/Multiple explosions in Narathiwat province/Bombing of checkpoint in Yala/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: New stimulus efforts/‘Shop and Payback’ scheme/18 Thai enterprises recognized/Tourism: Calls for reform in elephant tourism/NOK Air Mumbai-Bangkok flight/Thailand Experience: 20 Most Breathtaking Cities in Thailand/Diving around Ko Lao Liang/Thailand’s cultural and scenic railway routes/371 ‘Naga Fireballs’ dazzle/Climate Thailand: Grab Launches EV Fleets/Focus on R&D for EVs, clean energy/Pressing issues of global climate change/Sanli Environmental Completes First Solar Project/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Police Raid Two Bars in Hua Hin for Underage Prostitution, Owners Arrested

In a major crackdown on human trafficking, police from the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division raided two bars in Hua Hin on charges of covertly offering underage prostitution services to foreign tourists. The bars were targeted following an extensive investigation based on intelligence reports that indicated illegal activities were taking place behind the facade of normal bar operations.

The raid, which occurred earlier this week, uncovered the involvement of two bars in a scheme to exploit underage persons for sexual services. Foreign tourists were reportedly charged a “bar fine” to take minors out of the premises. Continued …

Thailand completes first phase of 950km coastal road project

The Department of Rural Roads under the Thai Ministry of Transport has completed the first of the four phases of the 950km coastal road (Riviera) project, which spans 12 provinces from Samut Prakan to Narathiwat.

Montri Dechasakulsom, director-general of the department, said the 515km first phase running along the coast from Samut Sakhon to Phetchaburi and from Prachuap Khiri Khan to Ranong and Chumphon has been accomplished and opened to traffic. Continued … 

iCon Group Fraud: 2,170 Victims Report 841 Million Baht in Losses

In the ongoing iCon Group case, a total of 2,170 victims have filed complaints over nine days, with reported damages exceeding 841 million Baht. Authorities have seized assets worth Bt210 million, including 24 vehicles, 51 luxury watches, branded bags, and cash.

Yesterday, Deputy Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau Sopon Sarapat announced that the police are continuing to collect evidence. Investigators are coordinating with economic crime specialists to trace digital assets involved in the fraud. Continued …

iCon uproar knows no bounds

Buddhism frowns upon worldly richness, and this is the main reason why one of Thailand’s most famous monks has landed in the hot seat in the endlessly expanding iCon scandal.

During a sermon given to both senior and junior iCon Group members, V Vajiramedhi talked a lot about how to get rich quickly. Make no mistake, he might be referring to spiritual wealth, meaning wisdom and not material possessions. Continued …

Stewed pork leg on rice is Line app’s top order

Khao Kha Moo, or stewed pork leg on rice, is now the most popular Thai dish ordered on the Line Man food delivery app, surpassing former champions like noodles and mango sticky rice.

The dish is not only popular among Thais but also favored by foreigners, a customer segment that has almost tripled in growth compared to last year, said Yod Chinsupakul, CEO of Line Man Wongnai on Thursday. Continued …

Video: Moo Deng remains an enduring viral sensation

Celebrity pygmy hippo Moo Deng recently celebrated her third month in October and the Khao Kheow Open Zoo now has its official logo for its merchandise.The hippo calf continues to attract large crowds, including foreign tourists, at the zoo, located 40 kilometers northeast of Pattaya city. Video …

Eight injured in multiple explosions in Narathiwat province

Five paramilitary rangers and three police officers sustained minor injuries when roadside improvised explosive devices (IED) were detonated in Su-ngai Padi district of Narathiwat province on Friday.

One explosion occurred at about 6am yesterday morning, on a road in Rikor subdistrict, damaging two utility poles. The incident prompted a large security force, including a sniffer dog, forensic science officers and an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team, to investigate the scene. Continued …

Three cars damaged in bombing of checkpoint in Yala

Southern insurgents threw a pipe bomb at a road checkpoint in Muang district of Yala province Thursday night, causing damage to three cars.

None of the officers or defense volunteers at the checkpoint, on the out-bound lane, were injured. A car belonging to a police officer and two others, owned by villagers, sustained shrapnel damage. Continued …

  • Foreigners Harass Tourists in Pattaya, Taunt Local Police – Continued …
  • Indian Tourists Spark Outrage for Littering into Sea at North Pattaya Beach – Continued …

New stimulus efforts readied

The Finance Ministry is preparing additional stimulus measures, including plans to promote tourism and encourage spending toward the end of the year, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat.

He said the economic stimulus package will include the second phase of the cash handout, for which the government allocated 187 billion baht in the 2025 budget. He said the tourism stimulus measures will target areas affected by flooding, such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Continued …

‘Shop and Payback’ scheme revival sought to boost Thai economy

Thai retailers are calling on the government to reinstate the “Shop Dee Mee Kuen” (Shop and Payback) scheme to help boost spending at year end. The stimulus, which offers tax rebates to buyers of selected products, was implemented to stimulate the economy in the fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic.

A new round of the stimulus, ideally starting now until January next year, could potentially boost domestic spending in the fourth quarter by up to 100 billion baht, Nat Wongpanich, president of the Thai Retailers Assn. said on Friday. Continued …

18 Thai enterprises recognized at women’s empowerment principles awards

The 2024 Thailand WEPs Awards, organized by UN Women and supported by various partners, recognized 64 applicants, highlighting the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in business leadership.

During the award ceremony, Christine Arab, regional director of UN Women Asia and the Pacific, highlighted the significance of the awards. She noted that they serve as catalysts for innovation and resilience, encouraging businesses to contribute to sustainable economic growth in Thailand. Continued …

This is a definite no

Calls for reform in elephant tourism rise after drownings in Chiang Mai

Calls are growing for better protection of elephants at sanctuaries and tourist attractions across Thailand after two of the animals perished in Chiang Mai’s raging floodwaters this month.

On Oct. 5, two elephants were found dead in the Mae Taeng River in the northern province’s Mae Taeng district. Both were from the Elephant Nature Park, which lies about six kilometers from where their bodies were discovered. Park staff identified the drowned creatures as 16-year-old Fah Sai and 40-year-old Ploy Thong. The latter was blind. Continued …

NOK Air to begin Mumbai-Bangkok flight operations

NOK Air, a Thailand-based aviation company, is set to start flight operations between Mumbai and Bangkok from Oct. 28. The airline will operate eight flights per week: two on Monday and one each on the rest of the days. – mid-day.com

20 Most Breathtaking Cities in Thailand You Need to Visit

Thailand is a country filled with some of the world’s most diverse landscapes, incredible cuisine, friendly locals and more things to see than you could ever hope to tick off. Although its islands often get all the limelight, Thailand’s cities are buzzing hubs where visitors can get to the heart of the country, admire towering temples, snack on street food, trek out into the countryside or hit the beaches.

The capital of Bangkok offers a perfect starting point for those wanting to dive straight into the deep end of this eclectic country, while other popular cities like Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Phuket offer stunning natural wonders, great nightlife and a chance to explore Thailand’s history. Continued …

Stunning experiences of tour guide who went diving around Ko Lao Liang

After the marine tourism season started on Oct. 1, Anon Kingkoyao, also known as “Bang Dard”, a 36-year-old marine tourism operator and tour guide in Trang province, went diving to explore the shallow coral reefs around Ko Lao Liang – a dream island for many.

Ko Lao Liang is located in the Mu Ko Phetra National Park, in Palian district of the province. It is peaceful, clean, and perfect for snorkeling, offering beautiful check-in spots to take pictures of Trang’s stunning marine scenery. Continued …

Explore Thailand’s cultural and scenic railway routes this winter

This winter, the State Railway of Thailand invites you to take a train journey you will always remember, passing through some of the most picturesque and culturally rich parts of the country. Its newly unveiled railway tourism program lets railway enthusiasts and travelers alike see Thailand from a new perspective.

From the luxurious Royal Blossom tourist train to the nostalgic steam locomotive, every journey offers a unique mix of comfort, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Continued …

371 ‘Naga Fireballs’ dazzle thousands

A total of 371 fireballs were seen rising from the Mekong River in the two Nong Khan districts of Rattanawapi and Phon Phisal.

On Thursday night, some 147,700 locals and tourists gathered in the two districts to witness the phenomenon. Records show 299 fireballs were spotted in Rattanawapi district and 72 in Phon Phisai. Continued …

Grab Launches EV Fleets in Five Major Cities

Grab Thailand is accelerating the expansion of its EV program by introducing an “End-to-End Rental” model, designed to encourage drivers and riders outside Bangkok to transition to electric vehicles. This initiative is made possible through strategic partnerships with STROM, a leader in EV technology and manufacturing in Thailand, and AutoDrive EV, a prominent electric taxi rental provider.

The model allows Grab drivers to rent electric motorbikes for food delivery in Pattaya, Khon Kaen, Chiang Mai, and Korat, and electric taxis for transport services in Phuket. Currently, over 3,000 drivers in upcountry provinces are using electric vehicles, with plans to extend to Chonburi, Surat Thani, Songkhla (Hat Yai), and Udon Thani by next year. Continued …

Government to focus on R&D for EVs, AI and clean energy

The government will focus more on R&D, especially in science and innovation for electric vehicles (EV), AI, advanced medical industries and clean energy, said Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

During this year’s third meeting of the National Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council she chaired on Friday, Paetongtarn emphasized the importance of advancing higher education, science, research and innovation in Thailand to benefit the people and the country. Continued …

Thailand discusses pressing issues of global climate change, forest fires and dust pollution

The second meeting of the National Environment Board for 2024 centered on the government’s commitment to addressing climate change and its impact on natural disasters such as floods, storms, and landslides.

The meeting also discussed preparations for the upcoming PM 2.5 dust season, with an emphasis on implementing concrete measures to protect public health and enforcing laws against illegal hazardous waste disposal. Continued …

Sanli Environmental Completes First Solar Project, Secures Second Major Contract In Thailand

Sanli Environmental Ltd., known for its expertise in environmental engineering, has successfully broadened its renewable energy initiatives in Thailand.

The recent completion of a solar power system at Mercure Koh Chang Hideaway and a 15-year power purchase agreement with Topland Plaza for a photovoltaic system mark significant milestones in the company’s sustainable energy journey. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Yes, ambassadors can get away with murder

On Monday, the Canadian government accused India’s high commissioner, the equivalent of an ambassador in Commonwealth countries, and five other diplomats of participating in a vast criminal conspiracy that used homicide and extortion to silence critics of India living in Canada. Continued …

North Korea to send 10,000 troops to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said North Korea is preparing to send 10,000 troops to help Russia’s war on Ukraine, in a sign of deepening military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

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

 

baht, climate change, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-June 18

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Covid-infected PM visits Hua Hin Airport

Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin conducted another inspection of Hua Hin Airport on Sunday, providing an update on the redevelopment plans announced last month. The redevelopment includes a major expansion and renaming the airport to “Phetch Hua Hin” airport.

The prime minister highlighted the progress, stating, “The Phetch-Hua Hin airport has made significant progress. We are moving towards becoming an aviation hub and tourism hub. Previously, I inspected the readiness and expedited the runway expansion here. Today, I took some time during the holidays to check the readiness again because AirAsia now offers commercial flights on the Hua Hin-Chiang Mai route with one flight per day. This is a good start to increase tourist arrivals.” Continued …

Heavy Rains and High Waves Forecast in 39 Provinces

Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a major weather warning, forecasting heavy rains in 39 provinces, including Bangkok. High waves are also expected in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, posing risks for local fishermen and coastal areas.

The situation is due to an active southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Gulf of Thailand, and a low-pressure zone near Vietnam’s coast. This combination is likely to result in significant thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, particularly impacting eastern and western parts of southern Thailand. Continued …

  • Canadian Tourist Robbed During Night in Pattaya Hotel – Continued …
  • Foreign Man Videoed Stealing Motorcycle in Chalong District – Continued …
  • Foreigner Seen Assaulting Thai Woman on Walking Street in Pattaya – Continued …

Thai Baht Leads Decline as Asian Currencies Dip Amid Quiet Trade

Emerging Asian currencies faltered in today’s holiday-thinned trade, with the Thai baht bearing the brunt of the decline. The U.S. dollar’s continued strength and mixed Chinese economic data have further exacerbated the downward trend.

Trade was notably subdued across Asia due to market closures in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and India. However, the Thai baht fell by up to 0.5%, influenced by weaker gold prices. The South Korean won and the Taiwan dollar also saw marginal decreases. Continued …

Defense Ministry eyes 200-billion-baht budget for 2025

The Defense Ministry is eyeing a budget of 200.92 billion baht in fiscal 2025 and is set to seek another 4.89 billion baht off budget.

During the first hearing of the fiscal 2025 budget bill, scheduled to be held in a three-day extraordinary parliamentary session from Wednesday, the three arms of the Thai military will likely ask for huge allocations for the procurement of arms. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Ambassadors from eight Islamic Cooperation countries explore potential of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat/

Ambassadors from eight Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries visited Thailand’s southern border provinces recently to study the multicultural society and potential for trade, investment, tourism and education.

The delegation included ambassadors from Brunei, Egypt and Iran, as well as chargés d’affaires from Malaysia, Nigeria, and the Maldives. Joining them were deputy chiefs of mission from Indonesia and Uzbekistan, along with Thai ambassadors to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Turkey. The OIC comprises 57 members. Continued …

Thailand arrests 26,000 undocumented workers, 20,111 from Myanmar

The Thai Labor Department announced that over 26,000 undocumented foreign workers from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam were arrested within a week.

(Editor: We wonder if the business owners were also arrested for hiring illegal workers.)

As part of the Thai government’s 120-day crackdown on illegal workers, Thai authorities inspected 1,774 factories, workplaces, and job sites across Thailand from June 5 to June 12. These inspections led to the arrests of a large number of undocumented foreign workers. Continued …

Decade-Old Rice Auction Fetches Nearly 300 Million Baht

In a significant move by the Public Warehouse Organization (PWO), 10-year-old rice stocks from Thailand’s Yingluck administration’s rice pledging scheme have been successfully auctioned. The auction saw considerable interest, reflecting the rice’s maintained quality despite a decade in storage.

V8 Intertrading Co., based in Kamphaeng Phet, emerged as the top bidder for rice stored in two warehouses located in Surin province. The firm’s winning bid for the approximately 15,000 tons of 100% grade 2 jasmine rice totaled nearly 300 million baht, averaging a price of 19 baht per kilogram. Continued …

Central bank unfazed by factory closures

The Bank of Thailand says new business registrations still outnumber factory and business closures, with no adverse impact yet on the country’s employment figures.

According to Piti Disyatat, assistant governor for the monetary policy group at the central bank and secretary of the Monetary Policy Committee, the central bank is not concerned about factory and business closures, as the number is lower than new business registrations. Continued … 

280,000 workforce targeted in high-tech sectors over 5 years

Thailand aims to create a workforce of 280,000 in advanced industries over the next five years, along with an ecosystem that supports new investments, to help the country become a high-tech hub, the government said on Monday.

The government wants to produce a workforce of 80,000 in the semiconductor industry, 150,000 in electric vehicles (EVs) and 50,000 in artificial intelligence (AI), it said in a statement. Continued … 

Reversal? Digital wallet funds to exclude mobile phones

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat urged the Commerce Ministry to reconsider its decision to permit recipients of the 10,000-baht payout from the digital wallet scheme to use the funds on mobile phones. He argued that this move would not benefit the domestic economy as intended.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin shares these concerns, noting that most mobile phones are either manufactured overseas or contain foreign-made components. Continued …

Thai Auto Parts Makers Urged to Enter Medical Devices Market

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is urging local auto parts manufacturers to adapt to the technological disruption caused by electric vehicles (EVs) and transition to producing medical devices, which are projected to have a promising future.

According to the FTI, auto parts makers accustomed to internal combustion engines are finding it difficult to adapt to electric mobility technology, as many of their products are no longer needed by EV makers. FTI Vice Chairman Isares Rattanadilok Na Phuket sees this shift as an opportunity to stimulate the economy in different sectors. Continued …

New Modular Robot Factory in Thailand to serve growing Asia-Pacific market

AutoStore, the global warehouse technology company that’s transforming warehouse automation with modular storage, has announced the opening of its assembly factory in Rayong Province.

This milestone marks a strategic move in the company’s global expansion efforts, bringing cutting-edge robotics production closer to key markets, including Australia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea. Continued …

Land prices high in Phuket, but real estate continues to be in high demand

Speaking at the seminar “Investment Opportunities in Phuket Real Estate–Latest Market Trends” held on June 14 at the Novotel Phuket City Phokeethra Hotel, Sopon Pornchokchai of the Thai Real Estate Research and Valuation Center, Agency for Real Estate Affairs Co., lamented that it was becoming increasingly difficult to find land in Phuket due to the ever-rising cost of land.

“Based on a survey of market land prices from 2004 to 2024, we see that land prices have increased on average by 7.47 times, or 10.7% annually, which is quite high compared to other areas in Thailand,” he said. Continued …

During market slowdown, residential developer shifts focus to high-priced homes

Residential developer c Home (Thailand) (FPH) is focusing on high-priced segments for new launches and will adjust product prices at existing projects to cope with the market slowdown.

Somboon Wasinchutchawal, the company’s acting chief executive, said the residential market in the first half had deteriorated from last year, largely attributed to high interest rates, which rose several times in 2023. Continued …

Inside the SRT Royal Blossom Train

The SRT Royal Blossom Train is a special tourist passenger train service that operates on short routes, normally within a day trip from Bangkok. The train took part in a test run to Hua Hin on Friday.

This train service is typically launched during specific periods, particularly around major festivals or events. It is designed to offer a luxurious and scenic travel experience, often featuring routes that highlight Thailand’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Continued … 

Tourism compensation scheme to be extended until end of year

The Tourism and Sports Ministry wants to extend compensation for injured and deceased tourists to the end of this year after only 3.9 million baht from the 50 million allocated for the scheme was used.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanit said the compensation was disbursed to seven eligible cases, comprising four deaths and three injuries, out of 50 applications that the ministry received. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Tourism Ministry Seeks 1 Billion Baht for New Routes

In a bid to uplift Thailand’s tourism sector, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports is planning to request a 1-billion-baht budget from the central emergency reserve fund. The primary goal is to develop new tourism routes linking major cities to 55 notable destinations and enhance existing infrastructure, including the improvement of restrooms in these secondary cities.

This ambitious proposal aims to foster long-term tourism strategies, ensuring that both local and international visitors have a significantly improved travel experience. While the focus is on internal developments and events, the ministry isn’t seeking additional funds for international marketing. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) already has a dedicated budget for that purpose. Continued …

Thailand looks to maritime tourism connectivity with Vietnam, Cambodia

Thailandis seeking to cooperate with Vietnam and Cambodia in opening a maritime route connecting islands near Trat province of Thailand with Vietnam’s Kien Giang province and Cambodia’s Sihanoukville province to promote investment, trade, tourism and tourism, combined with meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).

Trat Gov. Natthapong Sanguanjitrecently chaired a meeting on this initiative within the Cambodia-Vietnam-Thailand Economic Corridor (CVTEC) – Trat Business Roadshow 2024, with the participation of representatives from six provinces of the three countries. Continued …

Extra 7,000 seats per week agreed for India flights

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is looking to increase the number of seats on commercial flights to and from India by 7,000 per week as part of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s policy to promote Thailand as the region’s aviation hub and boost tourism traffic.

Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke said on Monday the prime minister is committed to implementing the aviation hub policy. It involves increasing frequency of international travel to the kingdom, establishing Thailand as an important destination, lifting the country’s aviation industry status to that of an aviation hub of the region, and enhancing the growth of the tourism industry. Continued …

2 foreign men, 1 Thai woman drown off Phuket beaches

The bodies of an American citizen and a Thai woman were found on Mai Khao beach in Phuket on Monday, police said, while a Russian man drowned off Surin beach on Sunday.

Police Lt. Col. Ranaphoum Permpoon, the chief investigator at Tha Chatchai police station, said local residents informed police that two bodies had washed ashore on the beach in Thalang district. Continued …

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

 

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-March 19

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Today’s news: Increased screening of foreigners/Home, condo purchases surge/Hua Hin expat Martin Harrison honored/Cha Am Bikini Beach Run/Forest fires increase PM2.5 levels/Man attempts suicide on flight/Gold prices surge/Fined for drinking beer/Economy: Electricity demand to rise by 3.1%/Vietnam reports on casino businesses/Chinese automakers must start producing EVs/Plans for new airport/Tourism: Police step up security in Hua Hin/Chiang Mai smog on Chinese social media/2 Dead In Tour Bus Accident/Foreigners behaving badly/Environment: Chiang Mai not disaster zone/Smog cloaks 50 provinces/Bt272M Allocated to Combat Forest Fires/Fires force Bangkok Airways cancellations/Thailand Experience: A forgotten Narathiwat village/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Hua Hin train schedule/Market Village bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Immigration officers told to increase screening of foreigners in Thailand

Foreigners in Thailand can expect increased scrutiny from the authorities in the wake of several high-profile criminal cases. Police reportedly have been issued new instructions to strictly enforce immigration laws.

Following two separate assault cases involving Swiss nationals, and the more recent case of two New Zealanders allegedly assaulting a Phuket police officer, the authorities are promising to “get tough”. Continued …

Home, condo purchases surge in Hua Hin

A new report by the Government Housing Bank and the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) has revealed the current trends and demands of the real estate market in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Phetchaburi provinces.

The report noted a surge in purchases of homes and condos in Hua Hin. Robust sales were reported in the Khao Takiab area, the REIC said, with 167 units totaling 1.4 billion baht sold. Continued …

Hua Hin expat Martin Harrison honored with British Empire Medal

Hua Hin-based expat Martin Harrison has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of his commitment to voluntary service spanning over 40 years.

The British Empire Medal (BEM) is a British and Commonwealth award for meritorious civil service worthy of recognition by the Crown. Continued …

Over 1,000 people join the Cha Am Bikini Beach Run 2024

Over a thousand runners from both Thailand and around the globe made waves at the Cha Am Bikini Beach Run 2024, held on March 17. The event, aimed at boosting tourism and promoting health and fitness, started outside the Long Beach Hotel in Ch Am.

The event featured races in three categories: the half marathon (21.1 km), the mini-marathon (10 km), and the smile run (5 km). The goal is to establish the Cha Am Bikini Beach Run as a premier international long-distance running event, encouraging healthy lifestyles through walking and running. Additionally, it aims to stimulate the local economy and promote sports tourism in line with government policies. – HHT

Forest fires in Thailand increase dangerous PM2.5 levels

Forest fires in the northern provinces of Thailand have sparked an increase in atmospheric PM2.5 levels, leading to a stern warning from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The department stated yesterday that severe legal consequences will be faced by those who illicitly ignite fires in forest lands.

Department chief Athapol Charoenshunsa unveiled that they have recently forbidden access to 11 conservation forest zones and 10 national reserved forest areas in the northern provinces. The move was prompted by the potential risk of forest fires and poaching activities by those entering these regions. Continued …

Man attempts suicide on Thailand to UK flight

A man attempted suicide on a flight from Thailand to the United Kingdom on Friday. The aircraft was forced to undergo an emergency landing at a London airport after a passenger reportedly tried to take his own life in a cabin toilet.

The EVA Air BR67 flight from Bangkok to London had started its descent into the capital when flight attendants became aware that someone was occupying one of the cabin bathrooms. As passengers were required to vacate the bathroom and fasten their seat belts for the descent, crew members went to investigate the occupant’s situation, leading to a distressing discovery. Continued …

Gold prices in Thailand surge, with ornaments at 37,350 baht

Gold prices in Thailand saw a significant hike today, with the Gold Traders Assn. (GTA) reporting an increase that builds on the closing figures from the previous day.

Today, March 19, gold ornaments were sold at 37,350 baht per baht-weight, a 150 baht rise from yesterday’s closing price. The latest data released by the association at 9.04am underlines a buoyant market for gold enthusiasts. Continued …

Thai man fined for drinking beer outside convenience store

A Thai man found himself in a legal quandary after consuming alcohol in front of a convenience store, which resulted in a fine of 1,000 baht by the police. The incident sparked a public inquiry into the legality of drinking in public spaces that are not government premises.

The man in question took to social media to query the public after he was fined. He posted a photo of the ticket, captioning it with a request for legal clarification. Continued …

Hot weather, strong economy to bump electricity demand by 3.1%

The Energy Policy and Planning Office is predicting that electricity usage this year will increase by 3.1% due to an improved economy and very hot weather.

Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo, director-general of EPPO under the Energy Ministry, on Monday noted the National Economic and Social Development Council predicted last month that Thailand would see economic growth of 2.2%-3.2% this year. He added that the Meteorological Department has predicted an average 1.2 degrees Celsius rise in temperature compared to last year. Continued …

Vietnam reports on casino businesses’ financial losses

The Ministry of Finance has reported on the casino business situation in Vietnam, indicating that the pilot project allowing Vietnamese individuals to gamble is experiencing financial losses due to a decreasing number of players.

In the report sent to National Assembly (NA) deputies ahead of a question-and-answer session at the NA’s Standing Committee on March 18, Minister of Finance Ho Duc Phoc states that this type of activity is exclusively reserved for foreigners. Continued …

Chinese automakers must start producing EVs in Thailand this year

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has released a report on electric vehicle (EV) investment in Thailand, highlighting the robust investment promotion in 2024 following the EV 3.0 measures. These measures mandate that companies importing EVs for sale in Thailand must commence production this year.

The NESDC report regarding the economic situation in the fourth quarter of 2023 and the economic trends for 2024 includes a section focusing on the trends in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Continued …

Plans for new airport in northern Thailand set to take off

Plans are underway for a new airport construction in Phayao, a province in northern Thailand. The project, expected to cost approximately 2 billion baht, is part of a broader initiative to transform Phayao into a primary tourist destination.

The proposed Phayao airport, under the Department of Airports (DoA)’s supervision, would occupy an area of 2,812 rai in Dok Kham Tai district, approximately 18 kilometers from the city center. The airport design would feature a 2.5km runway, two taxiways, and a terminal influenced by local Lanna arts, showcasing the province’s identity. Continued …

Email: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Tourist Police step up security measures in Hua Hin for holiday season

The Tourist Police have deployed officers with the aim of bolstering confidence among tourists during the upcoming Thai holiday season.

The move comes as Hua Hin anticipates a surge in visitor numbers through March and April, drawing both Thai and international travelers. Continued …

Air pollution in Chiang Mai gets Chinese social media treatment

Airborne pollution in Chiang Mai, which was ranked the most polluted city in the world by the real time Air Quality Index (AQI) last week, has become a topic of widespread criticism in Xiaohongshu, a popular Chinese life-style social media.

According to Ai Chong’s Facebook post on events and lifestyles in China, the hashtag “smog season in Chiang Mai” has attracted about 50,000 views, while another hashtag “air pollution” has attracted over 17 million views. Continued …

2 Dead, Many Injured In Tour Bus Accident

A double-decker tour bus heading for Bangkok from Bueng Kan hit a pillar and overturned in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) in the early hours of this morning, killing two persons and injuring 43 others.

At 2.10 am, police at Pho Klang station, city district, were alerted of the accident in front of Cherdchai Industry Garage and rushed there. Continued …

  • Kiwi Brothers Slapped With 5 Charges For Assaulting Policeman – Continued …
  • Russian tourist on Pha-ngan Island accused of kicking Thai pregnant woman – Continued …
  • Middle Eastern man caught stealing from Ang Thong store – Continued …

Chiang Mai not declared a disaster zone in bow to tourism

The government of Thailand has chosen not to declare Chiang Mai a disaster zone despite escalating air pollution, according to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The decision was largely influenced by concerns that such a declaration could negatively impact the province’s tourism industry.

The Bangkok-born PM explained that declaring the province a disaster zone would likely deter foreign tourists, particularly those whose insurance policies do not cover issues arising in disaster-stricken regions. He added that alternative solutions to the air pollution problem are being explored to minimize the impact on the economy. Continued …

Hazardous smog cloaks 50 provinces

Fifty provinces were blanketed with hazardous levels of PM2.5 dust this morning and 13 of them, mainly in the north, with seriously harmful levels of pollution.

The worst reading was in Mae Hong Son and the cleanest air was in Phuket. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency reported that the highest level of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and less in diameter (PM2.5) was detected in the northern province of Mae Hong Son, at 159.1 micrograms per cubic meter of air over the past 24 hours. The government-set safe threshold is 37.5µg/m³. Continued …

Bt272M Allocated to Combat Forest Fires in the north

The government has announced a financial commitment of 272.65 million baht from its central emergency fund to combat forest fires and address the escalating issue of high PM2.5 levels. The decision, made on Sunday, comes amid criticism from opposition MPs regarding the insufficiency of personnel allocated for fire-fighting efforts in the nation’s forests.

Critics pointed out that the approximately 1,800 rangers tasked with overseeing over 9 million rai of protected and national forests in Chiang Mai are overwhelmed, especially during the dry season when forest fires are most prevalent. The fires, often started by villagers to encourage the growth of mushrooms and other edible plants for sale, pose a significant threat to forest conservation efforts. Continued …

Forest fires force Bangkok Airways flight cancellations

Bangkok Airways had to cancel six flights at Mae Hong Son Airport this month due to smoke arising from widespread forest fires in the province.

Bangkok Airways yesterday canceled flight PG 205, which runs from Bangkok to Lampang and then Mae Hong Son, because the thick smoke affected the pilots’ visibility. The flight had been canceled six times since the beginning of March due to the ongoing forest fire situation. Continued … 

How a forgotten Narathiwat village created a new future for residents

Pu La To Bi Su is a small fisherman village situated 500 metres from the mainland of Narathiwat, one of three of Thailand’s deep South provinces. Only a few townsfolk people recognise this small island, and it is reachable only by boat.

Due to its location in Narathiwat province, life on the island is much harder than on the mainland. Narathiwat is recognised locally and internationally as one of the southernmost provinces in Thailand for its violence, unrest and insurgencies, further cutting off the island from the outside world. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin Chiang Mai flight schedule May 4-June 14

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday

  • Chiang Mai–Hua Hin, 10:20am–11:50am
  • Hua Hin Chiang Mai, 12:20pm–13:35pm

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

  • Chiang Mai–Hua Hin, 9am–10:30am
  • Hua Hin–Chiang Mai, 11am–12:15pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

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

cha am, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, phuket, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news- Aug 1

  • No alcohol sales today and tomorrow for religious holidays/
  • Cha Am has a new ‘naga’ attraction/
  • Bhumjaithai To Join Pheu Thai-Led Coalition Partners And Vote Srettha For PM/
  • Thai Establishment Thwarts Popular Will with Post-Election Moves/
  • Business and work visas in Thailand: What you need to know/
  • Arrests ordered in Narathiwat fireworks blast, death toll reaches 12, with 300 homes ruined/
  • Restaurant owner confronts negative reviewer at their home/
  • Driving out the gangs/
  • Abandoned mines tapped as ‘reservoirs’/
  • Economy: Thailand’s economy on recovery path as tourism rises/Thai automotive industry under threat amid political uncertainty and loan concerns/Energy Absolute, two Chinese firms to jointly set up battery cell plants in Thailand/PCB Material Giant Shengyi to Build USD196 Million Plant in Thailand/
  • Tourism: Tourism Sector Worried About Potential Street Protests if Unfavorable Government Takes Office/Thai tourism seeks visa fee waiver to attract Chinese and Indian visitors/Foreign women turn Thai rice steamers into hilarious hats/Reshaping Thailand’s healthcare to create a global treatment hub/Room for optimism in Phuket’s medical tourism industry/Phuket plans to ease reliance on tourism/
  • Thailand Experience: These 3 Thai Recipes Take Salads to Sour, Sweet, Spicy Heights/
  • International: Gold to top $2,000 this year/UNESCO Recommends Putting Venice On Heritage Danger List/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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No alcohol sales today and tomorrow for religious holidays

 

 

Cha Am has a new ‘naga’ attraction

Tourists have been flocking to a new (ish) cultural landmark in Cha-am, which officials proudly tout as the largest of its kind in all of Thailand. The naga statue “Grandfather Phaya Petch Kiri,” also known as Maha Muni Sri Suthon Nakhon Ratcha, stands 31 meters tall, stretches over 227 meters in length, and has a diameter of two meters. The statue’s body is uniquely crafted as a Yantra talisman, considered the primordial Yantra of all Yantras and regarded as the highest and most sacred. For believers, the landmark stands as a symbol of prosperity for individuals and their families. (HHT)

Bhumjaithai To Join Pheu Thai-Led Coalition Partners And Vote Srettha For PM

The Bhumjaithai party, under de facto party boss Newin Chidchob, is becoming a ninth coalition partner headed by the Pheu Thai to vote Srettha Thavisin for prime minister on the upcoming Friday.

All 71 Bhumjaithai MPs will join the 310-MPs-strong Pheu Thai-led coalition in Friday’s joint House/Senate meeting to cast yea votes for Srettha, one of a trio of the Pheu Thai candidates for head of government following the May 14 election, partisan sources said yesterday. Continued …

Thai Establishment Thwarts Popular Will with Post-Election Moves

Thailand’s 14 May general election resulted in a stunning triumph for the progressive Move Forward Party and a resounding rejection of political forces associated with the military-backed establishment that has governed since the May 2014 coup d’état.

Campaigning on a platform that directly challenged the military’s prerogatives, as well as those of the bureaucracy, oligarchy and monarchy, the establishment’s other pillars, Move Forward won 14 million votes and 151 seats, 10 more than the runner-up Pheu Thai Party, which had been the largest opposition force in parliament. But events since the election underscore a fundamental problem that animated Move Forward’s reformist agenda: unelected elites – namely, the military and its conservative allies – retain the power to determine political outcomes without regard for the popular will. Continued …

Business and work visas in Thailand: What you need to know

Dreaming of working or doing business in the sunny paradise of Thailand? You’ve probably heard the terms “business visa” or “work visa” dropped in conversations or spotted in your Google searches. But did you know these terms are just simpler ways of referring to the Non-Immigrant Visa B?

This is the visa you need if you’re a foreigner looking to work or start a business in Thailand. Want to know the requirements, application process, benefits, and validity of this visa? Well, here’s everything you need to know about the Non-Immigrant Visa B. Continued …

Arrests ordered in Narathiwat fireworks blast, death toll reaches 12, with 300 homes ruined

Authorities in the southern province of Narathiwat have issued arrest warrants for the owners of a trading center that stored fireworks for resale and exploded on Saturday at 3 pm, killing 12 people and destroying 300 houses and premises in the Muno Market area of Muno subdistrict in the Sungai Kolok district of the province bordering Malaysia.

Over 108 people were admitted to hospital but, currently, only 10 are being held with physical injuries requiring medical supervision. The arrest warrants are effective from today, and call on the owners of the local business to present themselves before the court to answer charges after a police investigation was opened on Saturday on the instructions of National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittiprapas. Continued …

Restaurant owner confronts negative reviewer at their home

Following an online uproar when a restaurant owner confronted a customer who had left a negative review, the owner herself sought to clarify events. She states she did not intend to cause distress but rather to understand the customer’s complaints.

The owner, identified only as Tum, elaborated on what happened regarding the negative review. The customer accused the unnamed Thai restaurant of under serving, and Tum claimed this directly lead to a drop in customers and income loss. Continued …

Driving out the gangs

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) will now look into five major biker gangs based in the country after arresting the leader, an Austrian national, and some members of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club in Pattaya on July 21.

The arrest of gang leader “Mr. Thomas” follows an incident in which a gang member, Olaf Thorsten Brinkmann, was involved in the murder of Hans Peter Walter Mack, 62, a German property broker in Nong Prue district, Chon Buri, in June. Continued …

Abandoned mines tapped as ‘reservoirs’

A number of abandoned mines in the northern provinces of Chiang Mai and Lamphun will soon be turned into sources of water in a water-management project aimed at countering seasonal drought and flooding. Continued …

Thailand’s economy on recovery path as tourism rises

Thailand’s economic recovery remained on track in June, as the tourism sector expanded in line with higher foreign tourist arrivals, while exports declined, the central bank said on Monday.

Economic activity was seen gradually improving, with the tourism sector remaining the main driver, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) said in a statement. Continued …

Thai automotive industry under threat amid political uncertainty and loan concerns

The Thai automotive industry is under threat due to a potential delay in forming a new government, following a marked decline in domestic car sales in the first half of this year.

As noted by Toyota Motor Thailand, the ongoing political uncertainty is likely to postpone car purchases from potential customers both domestically and in the business sector. Individuals and companies alike are keen to first understand the economic policies of the prospective coalition government before committing to major purchases. Continued …

Energy Absolute, two Chinese firms to jointly set up battery cell plants in Thailand

Energy Absolute Plc, a Thai company, is partnering with two major Chinese battery manufacturers, Eve Energy Co. Ltd. (Eve), and Sunwoda Mobility Energy Technology Co. Ltd. (Sunwoda), to conduct a feasibility study on establishing battery cell plants in Thailand.

Energy Absolute Deputy CEO Amorn Sapthaweekulof said that EA has signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Eve and Sunwoda, both large battery manufacturers in China, who are interested in expanding the battery market in Thailand. Continued … 

PCB Material Giant Shengyi to Build USD196 Million Plant in Thailand

Shengyi Technology, the world’s second-largest seller of copper clad laminate, will invest CNY1.4 billion (USD196 million) in establishing a new plant in Thailand to meet international clients’ demand for the component used in printed circuit boards.

The Chinese company will purchase a piece of land in an industrial park in Chachoengsao province in south-central Thailand, the Guangdong province-based firm said in a statement recently, without disclosing the annual capacity or the construction timetable. Continued …

Tourism Sector Worried About Potential Street Protests if Unfavorable Government Takes Office

The Thai tourism sector is worried about the formation of the new government that might consist of parties that the majority don’t like.

Sa-nga Ruengwattanakul, chairman of the Khao San Road Traders’ Assn., revealed that during the six-day long weekend, the atmosphere on Bangkok’s Khao San Road was quiet, as many Thai tourists had returned to their home provinces. Continued …

Thai tourism seeks visa fee waiver to attract Chinese and Indian visitors

A plea for the revival of a visa fee waiver program has been issued by Thailand‘s tourism industry, seeking an influx of visitors from populous nations like China and India. The request follows a lukewarm recovery in numerous essential markets and is viewed as vital for enhancing arrivals this year.

President of the Thai Hotels Assn. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi placed emphasis on targeting countries with vast populations such as China and India. This is due to tourists primarily residing in destinations like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. The need to consider budget travelers and large tour groups became evident despite high-spending tourists bolstering Thailand’s tourism statistics. Continued … 

Foreign women turn Thai rice steamers into hilarious hats

Thai netizens expressed their admiration and laughed at two foreign women who mistook Thai-style bamboo sticky rice steamers for hats. They bought them from a local vendor who could not communicate very well due to the language barrier.

A Thai man named Surat Seehabut shared pictures of the two European women wearing hats, which look like weaving baskets. The caption said, “At a local grocery shop, the foreign customers inquired, ‘What is this?’ and pointed at the sticky rice steamer. The vendor informed them, “This is a หวด (huad, which means sticky rice steamers).” They might have misheard “huad” as “hat” so they bought them.” Continued …

Reshaping Thailand’s healthcare to create a global treatment hub

Recognizing the impact of drugs on society, Thonburi Healthcare Group (THG) has established the “Horizon Rehab Center,” providing consultation and rehabilitation services for various addictions, including drugs, alcohol, gambling, social media, and video games. The group also organized a seminar with exclusive discussions to position Thailand as a treatment center for drug addicts.

Addiction problems, such as illegal drugs, alcohol, social media, video games, and gambling, have become toxic, significantly affecting the potential of the population, almost reaching epidemic proportions. Continued …

Room for optimism in Phuket’s medical tourism industry

Bumrungrad International Hospital (BIH) is spending B4.3 billion on a 150-bed boutique hospital in Mai Khao in anticipation of Phuket’s much-expected success in its developing medical tourism sector. Continued …

Phuket plans to ease reliance on tourism

The resort island province is working on a plan to develop itself into a “New Economy” less reliant on tourism for its survival.

According to Phuket’s deputy governor, Amnuay Pinsuwan, the “10+ Pillars” plan covers every aspect of the island that can enhance its economy. Those include gastronomy, education, its status as a maritime destination, medical and wellness, and SMEs. Continued …

These 3 Thai Recipes Take Salads to Sour, Sweet, Spicy Heights

When I search the internet for “Thai salads,” what usually pops up are Western adaptations with commonly associated Thai or generally Asian nuances: often a lettuce and cabbage mix with fresh herbs and, more often than not, a creamy nut-based dressing.

But when I actually delve into traditional Thai cooking, specifically the food culture of my mother’s homeland, salads are something of another level. They’re not just the start to a meal or light midday lunch, and peanut sauce dressings are a rare find. These salads go far beyond the confines of lettuce tossed with dressing. Continued …

Gold to top $2,000 this year

Gold prices are expected to rise above US$2,000 by the end of the year, amid expectations of an economic slowdown in the U.S. and Europe, intense geopolitical factors, and fewer interest rate hikes, says YLG Bullion & Futures. Continued …

UNESCO Recommends Putting Venice On Heritage Danger List

The UN’s cultural agency UNESCO on Monday recommended that Venice be added to its list of world heritage sites in danger, saying the Italian authorities needed to step up efforts to secure the historic city and its surrounding lagoon. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
covid, hospitality, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-May 6

  • Khao Tao developer Veyla expands into wellness sector/
  • Prachuap Khiri Khan braces for rainy season to start in mid-May/
  • Two storms to hit Thailand affecting Election Day/
  • Cyanide killings the deadliest in Thai crime history/
  • Thai couple hands over bag with lost 100,000 baht to police in Ratchaburi/
  • Cobra spits venom into Disaster Prevention officer’s eyes/
  • Massage parlor in northern Thailand raided for underage sex trafficking/
  • China Biggest Global Jailer of Journalists; Thailand Restricts Taboo Subjects/
  • Tourism: 1,000-baht departure tax proposed/Thailand urged to focus on wellness/Chinese arrivals could soar in May/
  • Thailand Experience: Narathiwat, a dream destination blessed by nature/
  • International: WHO declares end to COVID global health emergency/Britain ready for first coronation since 1953/US banks on edge after rate hike/German recession fears rise as factory orders plummet/
  • 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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    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Khao Tao developer Veyla expands into wellness sector

Luxury holiday home developer Ideas 1606 Co., known for its Veyla brand, is planning to expand the brand into the wellness sector and explore opportunities to target the foreign market in popular tourist destinations.

Fifteen years ago, Prapavadee Sophonpanich, founder and chief executive, acquired a 4.5-rai plot of land in Khao Tao, Prachuap Khiri Khan, with the intention of developing a small vacation home project targeting Thai businessmen. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan braces for rainy season to start in mid-May

Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is bracing for the rainy season to start in mid-May. The Thai Meteorological Department predicts that the rainy season in Thailand will start around the third week of May 2023, with one to two tropical storms possibly passing through the northeastern and northern regions in August and September.

Thailand’s rainy season typically occurs from May to October, with the highest rainfall usually in September and October. Continued …

Two storms to hit Thailand affecting Election Day

Rangsit University’s Climate Change and Disaster Center expects two storms are set to hit Thailand next week, with potential impacts on Election Day, May 14.

The center’s director, Seri Suparatit, revealed yesterday that two storms – one originating in the Indian Ocean and the other in the South China Sea – are moving toward Thailand. Cyclone Mocha is currently producing heavy rainfall in the Bay of Bengal, while another tropical depression is beginning in the South China Sea near the Philippines. Continued …

Cyanide killings the deadliest in Thai crime history

The case of suspected serial killer Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, 36, could be considered the deadliest in Thailand’s crime history, as the alleged crimes were committed over four years without raising any suspicion in the relatives of the victims.

Sararat allegedly poisoned her victims, most of whom she knew personally, mixing the deadly chemical cyanide on items of consumption, such as food, beverages and medicines, posing difficulties for police in their investigation. Continued …

Thai couple hand over bag with lost 100,000 baht to police in Ratchaburi

An honest Thai couple discovered a bag with 100,000 baht inside in front of a shopping mall in the central province of Ratchaburi and notified the police so they can search for its owner.

Eighteen-year-old Kittisak “Zen” Thaweechokhirun, and his 18-year-old girlfriend, Potchathawat “Mali” Sabumuang, last night reported the cash-filled bag they found at a shopping mall to officers at Meaung Ratchaburi Police Station. Continued …

Cobra spits venom into Disaster Prevention officer’s eyes

A Siamese spitting cobra spat venom into the eyes of a Disaster Prevention officer in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeast Thailand yesterday. Rescue officers responded quickly and managed to save his life and eyesight.

At 7.40pm, the Hook 31 Rescue Unit was informed that someone was spat at by a cobra at Ban Tanot Village, Moo 2, Ban Pho subdistrict, Mueang district. Continued …

Massage parlor in northern Thailand raided for underage sex trafficking

Police swooped on a massage parlor in the northern province of Tak after a tip-off on underage sex trafficking. The owner of the parlor was arrested and two teenage Burmese girls were rescued.

The Anti-Trafficking In Persons Division Police (ATPD) received a tip-off that a Thai woman, 40-year-old Suphaporn Makaew, was operating an underage sex-trafficking racket behind her massage business. To verify the information, an undercover police officer posed as a customer as he visited the massage parlor, located on the Mae Sot-Umphang Road in the Mae Sot district of Tak. Continued …

China Biggest Global Jailer of Journalists; Thailand Restricts Taboo Subjects

China was the biggest global jailer of journalists last year, with 101 behind bars, according to Reporters without Boarders (RSF).

Starting with Xi Jinping, who secured a historic third term as China’s leader, ensuring a concentration of power never seen since Mao Zedong, so as to pursue the crusade against journalism he launched 10 years ago. Continued …

1,000-baht departure tax proposed

Thai outbound travelers and foreign permanent residents in Thailand have been asked for their opinion on a government departure tax of 1,000 baht in an attempt to prevent locals from spending excessively abroad, with the Revenue Department announcing online public hearings this week.

The department posted the public hearing questionnaire on its website https://www.rd.go.th/64115.html, saying it wants to listen to public opinion about an emergency decree on a departure levy, based on a law passed in 1983, in order to assess its impact. Continued …

Thailand urged to focus on wellness

Thailand’s health economy boasts very high growth potential, as the world is increasingly aware of the importance of health and self-care, according to a Commerce Ministry study.

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, said the office studied the opportunities for Thailand’s wellness economy and found growth potential given the world’s greater focus on health and self-care. Continued …

Chinese arrivals could soar in May

Chinese airlines are expected to increase the number of flights to Thailand to 430 per week starting on June 1, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).

CAAT Director Suthipong Kongpool said his office recently met with Chinese airlines to discuss their request for more flights for the summer schedule and it was initially agreed that the number would rise to 430 a week from the 100 permitted at present. Continued …

Narathiwat, a dream destination blessed by nature

Narathiwat is the easternmost of the four provinces in Thailand’s deep south, bordered to the east by the Gulf of Thailand and to the south by Malaysia. The coastal province, which evolved from fishing communities along the mouth of the Pak Bara River, is now known for its cross-cultural beauty, abundant nature, and local delicacies.

A visit ideally begins with Wat Chon Thara Singhe, a Buddhist temple in Tak Bai that serves as a demarcation between Thailand and Malaysia. The historic temple takes you back to 1909, when the Kingdom of Siam returned four northern Malaysian provinces to the United Kingdom. Continued …

WHO declares end to COVID global health emergency

The World Health Organization said Friday that COVID-19 no longer qualifies as a global emergency, marking a symbolic end to the devastating coronavirus pandemic that triggered once-unthinkable lockdowns, upended economies worldwide and killed at least 7 million people worldwide. Continued … 

Britain ready for first coronation since 1953

Charles III will be crowned king today in a solemn Christian ceremony steeped in 1,000 years of history and tradition, but adapted to reflect 21st-century Britain. Continued …

US banks on edge after rate hike

Economists warn that two more U.S. banks are on the verge of collapse after the Federal Reserve lifted its key interest rates by 0.25% this week, prompting stock prices of American lenders to drop sharply after the hike. Continued …

German recession fears rise as factory orders plummet

Industrial orders at German factories saw their biggest fall in March since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic in 2020, data showed Friday, the latest sign that Europe’s biggest economy is facing a steep downturn. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting