6 police officers honored/Deaths from sandfly bites/Death toll of collapsed building/Was shoddy construction to blame?/11 mild quakes recorded/Anzac Day Dawn Service/Woman Survives King Cobra Attack/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: IMF advises ASEAN to boost regional trade/The tariff challenge/80 years of economic progress/Thai-EU trade talks/Chinese-owned restaurants gain ground/TOURISM: Songkran festival spending drops/Pattaya elevators out of order/Domestic tourism subsidy faces delay/TM6 online will boost security/Weak Baht Helps Pattaya Tourism/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: How people in old Siam kept their drinks cool/Thailand embraces Latin American cuisine/CLIMATE THAILAND: Megaprojects, at what cost?/EV sector losing its drive?/Mile Green Powers EV Expansion/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
6 police officers honored after Hua Hin aircraft crash
Following a tragic small aircraft accident involving a police air unit, six police officers’ bodies have been transported from Hua Hin Hospital to the Police General Hospital’s forensic institute.
The accident, which occurred near Bo Fai Airport in Hua Hin district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, resulted in the deaths of five officers and critically injured one, who later succumbed to injuries. Continued …
Deaths from sandfly bites prompt alert in Thailand
Thai health authorities have issued a warning following two deaths from leishmaniasis this year, urging the public to take precautions against bites from sandflies, the disease’s primary vector.
Leishmaniasis is relatively rare in Thailand, with only 40 cases recorded since 1996. Since the beginning of this year, two fatalities have been reported — one in Songkhla and another in Bangkok, said Dr. Jurai Wongsawat, spokesperson for the Department of Disease Control. Continued …
Death toll of collapsed building rises to 60
Rescue teams on Thursday recovered three additional bodies from the rubble of the 30-story building in the Chatuchak district, which collapsed following an earthquake last month, raising the total death toll to 60.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) reported yesterday that the bodies were found in the fire escape stairwell area, where authorities anticipate more victims may be discovered as operations continue. Continued …
Was shoddy Chinese construction to blame for Bangkok collapse?
As investigators probe the deadly collapse of the under-construction State Audit Office’s headquarters in the March 28 earthquake, Bangkokians have given the project a new nickname: “Tofu-dregs building”.
The investigation is focusing on Chinese construction materials, as well as revisions made to the design, as officials seek reasons for the 30-story structure’s collapse. Construction irregularities are believed to be the cause of the tragedy. Continued …
11 mild quakes recorded in Myanmar and Mae Hong Son this morning
Eleven mild earthquakes, with magnitudes ranging from 1.3 to 3.1, were recorded in Myanmar and northern Thailand this morning, according to the Thai Meteorological Department.
The Earthquake Observation Division reported that two of these earthquakes occurred in Mae Hong Son Province. The first quake occurred at 1 am in Pong Sa subdistrict of Pai District, with a magnitude of 1.3 and a depth of 2 kilometers. Continued …
Ambassadors Lead 2025 Anzac Day Dawn Service at Hellfire Pass
The ambassadors of Australia and New Zealand jointly led a solemn Anzac Day Dawn Service at Hellfire Pass in Kanchanaburi province yesterday morning, marking a poignant tribute to the soldiers who suffered and perished during the construction of the Thai-Burma Railway in the Second World War.
The ceremony, attended by diplomats, military personnel, descendants of veterans, and members of the public, paid homage to the courage, endurance, and mateship of Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women. Continued …
Thai Woman Survives King Cobra Attack, Brings Snake to Hospital
A 47-year-old woman from Sa Kaeo Province has been discharged from the hospital after surviving a King Cobra attack, during which she fought the snake and brought its carcass to doctors to aid in her treatment.
She was gathering mushrooms near the Khlong Khan Tho reservoir in Watthana Nakhon district with several relatives when a 3-meter King Cobra lunged at her, biting her left leg and causing a severe wound. In a moment of panic and without any weapons, her only thought was to capture the snake to show doctors for proper treatment. Continued …
- Russian Woman Arrested in Phuket Hotel Over Prostitution Charges – Continued …
- French Fugitive Nabbed at Phuket Airport in Daring Morning Arrest – Continued …
- Tourist Urinates on Moving Tuk-Tuk in Patong – Continued …
IMF advises ASEAN to boost regional trade amid Trump tariff threats
Speaking at a press conference in Washington, DC, on Thursday, Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, said that Asian economies are encountering considerable difficulties as they remain highly dependent on exports.
“Asia is in a challenging position following the implementation of new (U.S.) tariff policies, which have had a substantial impact on several countries,” she said. “At the same time, however, the region has built up a degree of economic resilience in recent years, with steady growth, prudent inflation control, and supportive fiscal policies.” Continued …
Thailand’s weak economy and the tariff challenge
Thailand’s economy continues to face challenges because of long-standing structural factors, including an aging society leading to labor shortages and market limitations.
Business competitiveness has been stunted by overly rigid economic policies resulting in insufficient investment, and difficult access to credit. This vulnerability is reflected in the strengthening baht index, a credit contraction, and high commercial bank interest rates. Continued …
Tariff chaos could halt 80 years of economic progress
International trade and exploration have captivated the human imagination for millennia. From Alexander the Great to Marco Polo, from the Silk Road to the East India Company, history is filled with examples of commerce redrawing the map of the known world. But for much of history, trade was shaped more by power than by fairness.
This began to change after Adam Smith and David Ricardo showed that tariffs are economically harmful: they raise costs for importers, divert production to higher-cost countries, discourage innovation, and foster monopolies and corruption. Gradually, Smith’s insights into the dangers of protectionism, the importance of predictable economic policy, and the rule of law prevailed. Continued …
Thai-EU trade talks gain ground
The fifth round of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between Thailand and the European Union (EU) made significant progress to the mutual satisfaction of both sides, says Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan.
Chotima Iemsawasdikul, director-general of the Department of Trade Negotiations, said the two sides reached a preliminary agreement in principle on two additional chapters. The chapters comprise customs procedures and trade facilitation, which aims to enhance bilateral cooperation to improve the efficiency and timeliness of customs operations, and sustainable food systems, which focuses on fostering cooperation to develop resilient and sustainable food systems. Continued …
Chinese-owned restaurants gain ground in Thailand
Thai restaurants are facing greater competition from Chinese-owned restaurants using imported ingredients and serving Chinese tourists, says the chef and owner of Thailand’s first Michelin three-star restaurant.
Many foreigners view Thailand as a place where they can reap benefits from tourism by opening restaurants, said Supaksorn Jongsiri, whose Bangkok restaurant Sorn received its third Michelin star last November. Continued …
Songkran festival spending drops amid economic and social concerns
Spending by Thais during this year’s Songkran festival declined, driven by growing concerns about the economy and social issues, according to research released yesterday.
The Hakuhodo Institute of Life and Living ASEAN (Thailand) reported that this year’s Songkran felt more subdued overall, whether in terms of spending or participation by Thai people. For example, the traditional water-splashing festivities saw a noticeable drop in interest. More than 33% of respondents said they preferred to avoid the crowds, choosing instead to spend quiet time at home with family. Continued …
Pattaya elevators out of order after holiday water chaos
The aftermath of Pattaya’s wild Wan Lai water festival has left more than just soaked streets, – some public elevators are out of order, causing frustration and major accessibility issues across the city.
As the celebrations fade, the Cleanliness Control Division of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment has launched a deep-cleaning operation, targeting lifts in public areas hit hardest by water and powder. Despite attempts to keep things running smoothly during the festivities, several elevators have now been taken offline due to water damage. Continued …
Domestic tourism subsidy faces delay
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has assured hotel operators that the government will not cancel the 3.5-billion-baht subsidy scheme for domestic tourists during the low season, though the project will be delayed a month.
Sorawong said the subsidy was expected to be submitted to the cabinet this month, but the ministry asked the Tourism Authority of Thailand to revise the conditions to help distribute income in second-tier cities rather than concentrating them in a few main destinations as in the past. Continued …
Police Chief says new TM6 online will boost security in Thailand
National Police Chief Kittirat Phanphet yesterday explained why the new TM6 online system from May 1 will help boost security for tourists in Thailand. The police chief revealed that the initiative was a direct response to security gaps exposed after the controversy of Chinese tourists being abducted in January 2025.
He promised that the new system will also help the Royal Thai Police weed out undesirable criminals and conmen, particularly coming from China. The “TM6 Online” system will require foreign visitors to register before arrival using a dedicated website or app. It’s part of a broader crackdown on criminal gangs using Thailand as a base or transit point. Continued …
Weak Baht Offers Pattaya Tourism Potential Boost Amid Low Season
As Pattaya braces for its typically quieter low season, a surprising opportunity has surfaced with the weakening of Thailand’s currency. The Thai baht dropped to 33.57 per U.S. dollar Thursday, a decline from 33.39 just a day earlier, potentially turning the city into a more attractive destination for foreign tourists.
Tourism operators are optimistic that this currency dip, driven by a worldwide stronger U.S. dollar amid easing fears over Federal Reserve interventions and improved U.S.-China trade relations, could entice more visitors. As other currencies gain strength, international travelers might find their money stretching further, from staying at luxury resorts to enjoying street food delights in Thailand. Continued …
How people in old Siam kept their drinks cool
Before ice became a daily staple in Thai households and street stalls, Siam had its own clever ways of beating the heat — especially when it came to enjoying a cool drink.
But how exactly did people manage to chill their beverages in the sweltering climate of 19th-century Southeast Asia? The answer lies in a fascinating blend of ingenuity, science and a little help from international trade. Continued and video …
Thailand embraces Latin American cuisine
What is the first thing you buy to eat after arriving in Thailand? A bowl of tom yum soup or some street-side noodles, perhaps? For most visitors, Latin American cuisine will not be top of mind, but it is certainly having its moment in Bangkok.
“There’s been a global wave of appreciation for Mexican food, and Thailand is no exception,” says Alonso Luna Zarate, executive sous chef at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon hotel. Continued …
Developing megaprojects, but at what cost?
The world’s climate is deteriorating – and yet, destroying pristine mangrove forests and wetlands that help absorb carbon emissions is no longer unthinkable. Our governments and politicians are known for pushing the envelope when it comes to costly development projects, often at the expense of nature.
A glaring example is the government’s latest mega-infrastructure plan: the land bridge project, part of the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC), which spans four southern provinces. Continued …
Is the EV sector losing its drive?
Whether the number of locally made electric vehicles (EVs) increases year-on-year remains murky, as domestic car sales have slumped since the start of the year.
Manufacturers of both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and EVs, especially those from China that invested in Thailand to benefit from the growing EV market, are adjusting their production plans given the sluggish industry here. Continued …
Mile Green Powers EV Expansion Across Thailand
Mile Green, a next-generation electric vehicle (EV) company with dual headquarters in Hong Kong and Thailand, has announced a plan to rapidly expand its EV infrastructure across Thailand, marking a major milestone in the country’s transition toward sustainable transportation.
With a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing urban mobility, Mile Green will roll out a nationwide network of fast-charging and battery-swapping stations specifically designed to meet the needs of both individual consumers and professional riders. Continued …
India still fastest growing economy at 6%
India continues to remain the world’s fastest-growing major economy and the only country expected to clock over 6% growth in the next two years, according to an IMF report released this week, which has trimmed the growth forecast for over 120 countries. Continued …
Sky-high US tariffs to hit Boeing, Chinese airliners and China’s home-grown jets
In the midst of trade upheaval, Boeing’s customers in China have “indicated that they will not take delivery” on up to 50 planes that were earmarked for the Chinese market this year, according to the U.S. aerospace giant’s CEO. Continued …
New Schedule: Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.
For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule
Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):
(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm
Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am
Hua Hin train schedule
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.
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
- State Railway – 1590