Tag Archives: pattaya tourism

bangkok, covid, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-June 16

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Hua Hin Food Festival/Hard Rock Cafe coming/Bright Dawn Foundation celebrates/Hua Hin Taekwondo Championship/Awareness of insect-borne diseases/Maraleina crowned champions/Crackdown on Illegal Expat Workers/Thailand Battles Covid Surge/Thailand to Regulate Ride-Hailing Apps/What expats save on healthcare/Border arbitration is impossible/Strong rebuke of Cambodia/Dutch Embassy Sale/ECONOMY: Restaurant sector faces crisis/Stimulus requests exceed 400 billion/TOURISM: Diversify tourist markets/Pattaya’s new Walking Street/Has Pattaya tourism lost its way?/Foreign tourists in Pattaya fed up/Bangkok rises as conference destination/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Understanding Kreng Jai/Building a life on Koh Samui/CLIMATE THAILAND: Toxic habit of burning garbage/I tried solar panels for 9 months/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

Hua Hin Food Festival to return in August

Hua Hin City Municipality is moving forward with plans to host this year’s Hua Hin Food Festival, with the event set to return in August. A preparatory meeting was held last week to plan the 2025 edition of the popular annual festival, which draws large crowds eager to sample a diverse selection of culinary offerings.

For this year’s festival, organisers are planning to stage the event at Hua Don Beach. The exact dates are still being finalized. The festival will feature a wide range of activities and highlight local cuisine from across Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Continued …

Hard Rock Cafe coming to Hua Hin Hilton

International restaurant and entertainment brand Hard Rock Cafe is preparing to open a new location at the Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa. A memorabilia retail store, part of the new venue, is now open to the public.

The bar and restaurant are expected to begin operations next month, although no official launch date has been announced. The opening at Hilton Hua Hin marks the brand’s return to the resort town, where it had previously operated a location on Soi Bintabaht before closing several years ago. Continued …

Bright Dawn Foundation celebrates 15 years in Hua Hin

The Bright Dawn Foundation has commemorated its 15th anniversary, celebrating a remarkable journey of enhancing the lives of low-income Thai children through dedicated healthcare and educational support in the Hua Hin area.

Since its inception in 2010, the foundation has grown from supporting a single school to empowering over 700 children across five primary schools in the Hua Hin region, delivering tangible improvements in health, education, and community well-being. Continued …

5th Hua Hin Taekwondo Championship opens at Market Village

Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul on Saturday presided over the opening ceremony of the 5th Hua Hin Taekwondo Championship, held at the third-floor sports arena of Market Village Hua Hin.

The event was organized by Orathai Khemnak, president of the Prachuap Khiri Khan Taekwondo Sports Club. It brought together around 1,000 male and female athletes from 22 clubs across the country to compete in various categories. Continued …

Hua Hin launches campaign to raise awareness of insect-borne diseases

Hua Hin City Municipality has launched a public health campaign to raise awareness of insect-borne diseases and encourage preventative action among local residents. The campaign was officially launched Friday at the Hua Hin Municipal Demonstration School.

The campaign, organized by the Public Health and Environment Division, is aimed at promoting greater public understanding of diseases transmitted by insects, such as dengue fever, and at encouraging sustained prevention and control measures. Officials said the initiative is expected to contribute to a reduction in infections and deaths, while building stronger community-level cooperation. Continued …

Maraleina crowned champions at Copa Tailandesa in Hua Hin

After a week of competitive youth football, Maraleina has been crowned champion of Copa Tailandesa 2025, following the conclusion of the tournament yesterday at Arena Hua Hin.

Now in its second year, the international youth football competition brought together five teams who competed over five days in morning fixtures open to the public, drawing strong support from local spectators and visiting fans. Continued …

Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Expat Workers

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has unleashed a sweeping crackdown on expatriates occupying jobs reserved for Thai citizens. Over the last nine months, 4,400 arrests have been made, as the government stamps down on illegal foreign employment, aiming to safeguard jobs for domestic workers.

Labor Ministry spokesperson Phumphat Muanchan revealed that the initiative targets offenders in “List-1” occupations, such as street vending, barbering, and traditional Thai massage, which are strictly off-limits to expats. Of the thousands apprehended, only 417 have faced charges. Continued …

Thailand Battles Covid Surge with 12,000 Cases in a Single Day

Thailand is in the grip of a new Covid-19 wave as over 12,000 people tested positive on Friday, as confirmed by the Department of Disease Control. This increase includes three fatalities, underscoring the significant health challenges the country faces.

Authorities announced on Saturday morning that the precise tally reached 12,181, rocketing the total confirmed cases to 471,781. The fresh data also raised the nation’s death toll to 151. Continued …

Thailand to Regulate Ride-Hailing Apps for Fairer Competition

In a significant shift for ride-hailing services, Thailand’s Department of Land Transport (DLT) is acting swiftly to bring digital platforms like Grab under new regulations. Within the next 90 days, app-based taxi and motorbike operators are to register under a government system, addressing long-standing fairness concerns compared to traditional taxis.

This is part of a pathway toward a level playing field, ensuring app-based taxis comply with the standards set forth by the Transport Ministry. DLT Director-general Jirut Wisanjit confirmed this development following a draft from the Electronic Transactions Commission. It sets a mandate for all ride-hailing vehicles to legally register and meet DLT service application standards. Continued …

Thailand vs. the West: What expats save on healthcare each year

Healthcare in Thailand is much cheaper than in Western countries, making it a great choice for expatriates looking for affordable medical care. Both public and private healthcare options offer high-quality services, with savings of up to 80% on procedures like cardiac surgery and diagnostic imaging. Routine medical care is also much cheaper, often costing 50%-75% less.

Western healthcare systems are often expensive, with high premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and long waiting times, making healthcare unaffordable for many. Thailand offers affordable, high-quality healthcare, with major savings compared to Western countries for treatments like surgeries, IVF, and diagnostic imaging. Continued …

International border arbitration is impossible for Thailand

The prime ministers of Thailand and Cambodia are categorical not to cede one inch of their territory. Saturday saw the bilateral meeting of the Joint Boundary Commission but that won’t consider the meaty issues of borders in four contested areas, ownership of a clutch of temples or even the recent closure of a land crossing by the Cambodian side.

If the two ASEAN partners can’t solve their territorial issues alone – a foregone conclusion, for sure – Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn will lead a team to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Holland for “a final resolution”. Continued …

Thailand breaks silence with strong rebuke of Cambodia on border disputes

Thailand has been deeply disappointed by Cambodia’s continued refusal to cooperate in resolving border tensions, particularly its decision to seek intervention from the World Court regarding four disputed sites.

The Thai Foreign Ministry said the move clearly reflected a lack of genuine determination to resolve sensitive issues through existing bilateral mechanisms and in the spirit of good neighbors. Continued … 

Dutch Embassy Sale Sparks Debate in Bangkok

The Dutch Association in Thailand is taking action against a plan to sell the Dutch Embassy in Bangkok. The embassy, located at 206 Wireless Road, faces potential sale to local developers as part of a Dutch government cost-cutting initiative. Willem Pentermann, chairman of the association, discovered the plan from De Telegraaf, a Dutch newspaper.

Negotiations are reportedly in progress concerning the sale of the embassy’s property, which is owned by the Dutch government and managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “This is part of a broader government effort to reduce costs, and the ministry’s budget will see significant cuts,” said Willem Pentermann, presdient of the association. Continued …

Thailand’s estaurant sector faces ‘boiling frog’ crisis lasting up to 3 years

Paisarn Aowsathaporn, senior executive vice president and head of food business (Thailand) at Thai Beverage Public Co. — one of the country’s four leading restaurant operators, with brands such as Shabushi, KFC, Hyde & Seek, and Food Street — said the company is set to reach 888 outlets by the end of this year. He noted that the overall food and beverage industry in Thailand, across all segments, is valued at nearly 700 billion baht and continues to expand in line with economic trends.

However, the outlook for 2025 points to a slowdown. According to a report by the Department of Internal Trade, around 3,000 restaurants closed during the first quarter of the year. At the same time, a significant number of new establishments also opened, reflecting the natural business cycle of entries and exits in the sector. Continued …

157-billion-baht stimulus requests exceed 400 billion baht

While the government’s economic stimulus budget of 157 billion baht is scheduled for final approval later this month, the value of funding requests received from various ministries exceeds 400 billion baht.

The government is exercising extra caution to ensure the proposed projects comply with its frameworks, amid concerns over transparency and the intended economic impact, as there are fears that some projects could be used to pave the way for an election campaign or to benefit specific groups. Continued …

Thailand has no choice but to diversify tourist markets, such as Europe and the Middle East

With more than 15.5 million international arrivals recorded between Jan. 1 and June 9, Thailand’s tourism sector is experiencing a strong rebound — but not without challenges. The latest figures from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) show impressive double-digit growth from Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania, but a noticeable shift away from its once-dominant reliance on Chinese arrivals.

Malaysia has now overtaken China as the top source of foreign tourists during the recent green season period (June 1–9), with arrivals from the southern neighbor up 13.2% year-on-year. Meanwhile, European markets such as Germany (up 71%), Italy (+28%), and Switzerland (+24%) have surged forward, alongside Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman — all posting gains above 30%. Continued …

Pattaya’s new Walking Street: Critics say, ‘Might as well call it Indian Street now’

The city of Pattaya has begun dismantling the old sign and installing a new LED-lit gateway at the entrance to its iconic Walking Street, temporarily closing access for the long-planned upgrade. While city officials tout it as a move toward modernization, not everyone is impressed.

As the fresh sign flickered to life in dazzling colors, the first reaction was exactly what authorities hoped for — crowds of tourists snapping photos beneath the bright new archway. But the second reaction was far less flattering: heavy traffic congestion and a flood of sarcastic commentary from foreign residents and visitors. Continued …

Has Pattaya tourism lost its way?

Pattaya, once the beating heart of Thailand’s tourism industry, now feels like a ghost town to many of its most loyal residents — its long-term foreign visitors. As this year’s low season hits new depths, foreign retirees, digital nomads, and working-age Westerners are asking a pointed question: If City Hall won’t listen to the people who live here year-round, who exactly is Pattaya listening to?

According to several long-term residents, the city’s attempts to chase mass tourism numbers — particularly from short-term markets like China and India — have come at the cost of alienating those who gave Pattaya its original international appeal. Continued … 

Foreign tourists in Pattaya fed up being asked to buy something every five minutes

Pattaya Beach, once celebrated for its laid-back charm and natural beauty, is increasingly being described by long-term visitors as overrun with commercial activity. Food stalls, beach chairs, water sports vendors, street performers, hawkers, and even blaring music from nearby bars now compete for attention — and space. For some tourists, especially those seeking quiet relaxation by the sea, the experience can feel chaotic rather than calming.

Foreign visitors, especially older travelers and long-term stayers, often come to Pattaya in search of serenity — a place to walk, read, and take in the sea breeze. But many complain that entire sections of the beach are now dominated by commercial operators who rent chairs, sell goods, or push loud activities like jet skis and banana boats. Continued …

Bangkok rises to 7th place globally as top international conference destination

Bangkok has made global headlines by climbing to 7th place in the world rankings for international conference destinations, according to the latest 2024 report by the International Congress and Convention Assn. (ICCA), released at IMEX Frankfurt 2025 in Germany.

This marks a significant leap from 15th place in 2023 and reflects Thailand’s growing potential and readiness to be a true global hub for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). Continued …

Understanding Kreng Jai: The hidden heart of Thai politeness

Thailand is famously known as the “Land of Smiles.” Visitors often describe Thais as kind and polite. But beneath that warm exterior lies a deeply rooted cultural value: kreng jai.

There’s no perfect English equivalent for kreng jai, but it loosely translates to a mix of consideration, deference, and reluctance to impose. It’s more than just being polite — it’s a mindset, a way of thinking that reflects a desire not to inconvenience or embarrass others. Continued …

Starting over in paradise: Building a life on Koh Samui

On this sun-drenched tropical island, time moves more slowly — and that’s exactly what many people were looking for when they chose to make it home. I had just wrapped up an interview with a millennial who left his life in the U.S. Behind to become a Muay Thai fighter. Next, I was heading off to speak with the French owner of a boutique hotel.

Three days into my reporting trip, I was starting to see why so many people are drawn to Koh Samui, the Thai island that’s recently been thrust into the global spotlight thanks to HBO’s hit series “The White Lotus.” Long before the show put it on the radar of TV audiences, Samui had already been quietly attracting people in search of something different: an unhurried pace of life, a lower cost of living, and the promise of a fresh start far from home. Continued … 

Resident dismayed over neighbors’ toxic habit of burning garbage

Something that seems obvious but is incredibly easy to take for granted is the fact that we live in a society. Our actions do not occur in a vacuum — what we do affects those around us, and we should live our lives knowing that our choices may impact others.

So, when people who obey that social contract come into contact with those who have forgotten it, frustration is only natural. As an example, several photos show a neighbor burning their trash, to the point where the air became almost unbreathable. Continued …

I tried solar panels for 9 months

Solar panel performance update nine months after installation. This video covers energy production, expenses, and savings from the solar panel system. Video …

‘No Kings’ Protests Decry Trump Across the US

The grand military parade that U.S. President Donald Trump had been wanting for years barreled down Constitution Avenue on Saturday with tanks, troops and a 21-gun salute, playing out against a counterpoint of protests around the country by those who decried the U.S. leader as a dictator and would-be king. Continued …

Trump administration weighs adding 36 countries to travel ban

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is considering significantly expanding its travel restrictions by potentially banning citizens of 36 additional countries from entering the United States, according to an internal State Department cable. Continued …

UK appoints Blaise Metreweli first woman head of MI6 spy service

The UK government has appointed Blaise Metreweli as the first-ever woman to head its MI6 spy service as the country faces “threats on an unprecedented scale”, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced yesterday. The MI6 Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) achieved global fame through Ian Fleming’s fictional agent James Bond. Continued …

  • Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe 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.

    Bus Tickets 

    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

    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
            • State Railway – 1590

     

bangkok, exports, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-June 14

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Hua Hin real estate growing/Hua Hin tackles graffiti/Skepticism Over Helmet Law/Bt12-million mystery cash/Compensation for wild elephant attacks/ECONOMY: Border closure with Cambodia/GDP Growth Pegged at 1.8%/Tariff talks likely to be virtual/Thai Economy Faces Challenges/Ins and outs of legal casinos/TOURISM: Air India Bomb Threat/Bomb scare caused by disgruntled passenger/US State Department: Thailand safe/‘I’ve never seen Pattaya this quiet’/Closing airport duty free shops/Departure service fees to increase/Pattaya to revamp entertainment zones/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Lanna fans and other bamboo traditions/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand targets faster EV growth/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

Hua Hin real estate growing due to foreign retirees, long-term family vacationers

Real estate in Hua Hin is hot, land prices have increased from 80 million to 120 million, and the rental market is better than expected. The new city plan prohibits tall buildings, however, is affecting the future condo market.

Long-term living and investment opportunities in real estate are being driven by a recovery in international travel, coupled with new government infrastructure investments, including the Hua Hin Airport project, dual-track railway, and Bang Khun Thian-Pak Tho Motorway, and the construction of the Rama II section of Motorway No. 2, which is nearing completion. Continued …

Hua Hin again tackles graffiti artists

Hua Hin City Municipality has issued another public warning against graffiti artists after a well-known local street artist was once again reprimanded by officials.

In a post published yesterday, the municipality said it was responding to fresh reports of individuals defacing public areas and official signs with paint. Municipal inspectors said they had swiftly tracked down the offenders and were taking steps to ensure they acknowledged their wrongdoing and carried out corrective actions. Continued …

Public Skepticism Persists Over Helmet Law Crackdown

Since the Royal Thai Police (RTP) implemented their overhauled traffic fines and sanctions on June 1, skepticism remains widespread among the Thai public. The revised system, aimed primarily at improving road safety, has yet to fully convince citizens despite its focus on critical areas such as helmet laws and unlicensed driving.

Key among the changes is the stringency concerning motorcycle helmet use. Under Section 122 of the Land Traffic Act, both riders and passengers are mandated to wear helmets, with fines beginning at 1,000 baht. Notably, if both are caught without helmets, penalties can double. Continued …

Bt12-million mystery cash said part of an influence-peddling campaign

As pressure mounts on lawyer Thaweewat Saengkaew from both the Revenue Department and police agencies over the Bt12 million found in a condominium on the outskirts of Bangkok, a more plausible explanation for the money has begun to emerge. Evidence uncovered by investigators suggests the funds may be linked to an influence-peddling or public relations program launched by a major firm in 2020 and 2021.

Chana, a coastal town in southern Songkhla province, had been proposed as the site of a controversial industrial development. The project faced strong and sustained opposition from local communities. Ultimately, the mounting public resistance was enough to bring the project to a standstill by the end of 2021. Continued …

New compensation policy for wild elephant attacks in Thailand

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has updated its financial assistance policy for those affected by wild elephant attacks, with a maximum payout of 500,000 baht. This new guideline, effective immediately, is designed to ensure timely and transparent compensation, with approved funds transferred within five working days.

The compensation covers damages related to life, physical harm, property, and crops. Eligible recipients include those affected by wild elephants causing harm or destruction in these areas. They must own or legally lease the affected property. Continued …

Ban Khlong Luek border crossing in Sa Kaeo

Border closure with Cambodia threatens Thai economy

The ongoing tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border — sparked by a military clash near Nam Yuen District in Ubon Ratchathani on May 28 — have escalated into a broader border dispute with no clear resolution in sight.

Cambodia has proposed taking the dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), while Thailand opposes international arbitration, preferring to resolve the matter through the bilateral Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) mechanism. Continued …

Thai GDP Growth Pegged at 1.8% for 2025 as Trump Tariffs Loom

Thailand’s economic growth for 2025 is projected to remain at a modest 1.8%, according to TRIS Rating, which has incorporated the potential impact of U.S. import tariffs into its latest analysis.

Public sector investment is anticipated to be the primary economic driver next year, with the ratings agency urging the government to expedite the disbursement of funds for already approved projects to support the country’s fragile economy. Continued …

US-Thailand tariff talks likely to be virtual as deadline nears

Thailand’s tariff negotiations with the U.S. are likely to take place virtually as President Donald Trump’s self-imposed July 9 deadline nears, according to the Department of Trade Negotiations.

The trade-reliant nation aims to conclude trade talks with the U.S. before the end of the grace period set by Washington, Director-general Chotima Iemsawasdikul said at a briefing. Preparations are underway for trade negotiations with the U.S., though the exact date hasn’t been set yet, Chotima said. Continued …

Thai Economy Faces Challenges Amid Trump’s Tariff Policy

The Trump administration’s tariff policy, aimed primarily at rebalancing trade with China, inadvertently impacted Thailand’s economy. As tariffs on Chinese goods increased, Thailand experienced a ripple effect. Many Thai industries, particularly those linked to manufacturing and exports, felt the pressure. Tariffs disrupted supply chains, leading to increased production costs and making Thai products less competitive in global markets.

Furthermore, Thailand’s reliance on exports became evident as industries faced dwindling orders and rising uncertainty. Electronics and automotive sectors, in particular, reported significant setbacks as global demand shifted. As companies struggled to adapt, economic growth slowed, reflecting broader regional impacts. The tariff policy pressured local businesses to reevaluate strategies and seek new markets to mitigate losses. Continued …

The ins and outs of legal casinos

Political leaders and the public continue to debate the merits and pitfalls of the government’s proposed legislation to legalize casino operation in entertainment complexes.

A group united against gambling gathered outside the parliament recently to voice opposition to the latest version of the Entertainment Complex Act, claiming it includes loopholes that would fail to stop young people from gambling. Continued …

Air India Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Phuket After Bomb Threat

An Air India flight en route from Phuket to Delhi was forced to make an emergency landing yesterday morning, after a bomb threat message was discovered during the flight.

Flight AI379, carrying 156 passengers, had departed from Phuket International Airport, at 9:30 am. The pilot reported the discovery of a suspicious message threatening a bomb on board. Upon receiving the alert, the captain immediately coordinated with aviation authorities and requested permission to return to Phuket. Continued …

Bomb scare on Air India flight from Phuket caused by disgruntled passenger

Phuket police confirmed yesterday they are still investigating who placed a bomb threat note on an Air India flight that departed from Phuket International Airport earlier in the day. The investigation includes checking for fingerprints on the note and comparing them with flight documentation.

The handwritten message was discovered by the cabin crew shortly after the flight was airborne. Following the discovery, a full-scale emergency response was launched. The aircraft circled the area to burn excess fuel before safely returning to Phuket Airport. Continued …

US State Department: Thailand safe for most, caution in south

The U.S. travel advisory for Thailand has been updated, and the verdict is in: the country is generally safe for tourists. However, there are some areas where extra caution is recommended, particularly in the southern provinces due to ongoing civil unrest.

The U.S. State Department has placed Thailand on its “Level 1” advisory for most of the country, meaning “exercise normal precautions.” This places Thailand on par with countries like Iceland and New Zealand. For travelers, this means you can safely explore Thailand’s top tourist destinations with the usual precautions in place. Continued …

‘I’ve never seen Pattaya this quiet’ — Expats share bitter truths amid low season as Chinese tourists disappear

Once a bustling magnet for global travelers, Pattaya is experiencing what many long-term visitors are calling its quietest low season in decades. While government tourism figures continue to show optimism, those on the ground paint a very different picture — one marked by shuttered bars, thinning crowds, and mounting frustration.

“I’m here in Pattaya right now, and I’ve never in 20+ years seen a low season so quiet,” said one expat. “Countless bars with hardly any punters — it’s sad.” The most glaring absence is Chinese tourists. Once a dominant force in Pattaya’s visitor mix, their numbers have sharply declined, sparking speculation, concern, and no small amount of criticism. Continued …

King Power cites economic doldrums in closing airport duty free shops

Airports of Thailand (AOT) shares fell 7.8% yesterday following an announcement by Thai duty-free retailer King Power that it intends to shutter its stores in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai airports, pointing to the steadily declining economy and heightened rental fees.

AOT, which operates six international airports across Thailand, acknowledged that King Power had submitted a memo to its president last month requesting discussions to end its contracts to operate duty free retail spaces at Phuket Airport, Chiang Mai Airport, and Hat Yai Airport. Continued …

Departure service fees to increase at six airports

The passenger service charge (PSC) for domestic departures will go up from 50 baht to 75 baht per person, while the international charge will rise from 400 baht to 425 baht per person at six airports, effective Oct. 1 this year, the Department of Airports (DoA) announced.

The increase applies only to airports equipped with three key common use passenger processing systems (CUPPS). The increases will go into effect at six CUPPS-equipped airports currently managed by the DoA – Krabi airport, Surat Thani airport, Ubon Ratchathani airport, Khon Kaen airport, Nakhon Si Thammarat airport and Phitsanulok airport. Continued …

Pattaya to revamp entertainment zones and taxi system

To modernize and better serve the ever-growing number of tourists flocking to Pattaya, Bang Lamung district has unveiled major plans to overhaul its zoning regulations for entertainment venues and completely restructure the motorbike taxi system.

This initiative was announced at a meeting chaired by District Chief Patcharapat Sritanyanon. “With Pattaya’s rapid growth, our outdated entertainment zoning laws — established over 20 years ago — are no longer fit for purpose,” said Patcharapat. Continued …

Bending Without Breaking: Lanna fans and other bamboo traditions

Bamboo plants have long been a symbol of power and resilience in the region. Symbolizing strength, the bamboo’s unique quality of bending without breaking, even during a heavy storm, paints a strong image of our people’s bravery and perseverance in the face of hardship and difficulties.

Among its many attributes, bamboo is the world’s tallest grass, with the largest species averaging 65 to 82 feet, or 20 to 25 meters. Symbolism and traditions are woven around this remarkable plant, at least as far as Southeast Asia is concerned,” horticulturist Tony Nieva says. Continued …

Thailand targets faster EV growth

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BoI) is stepping up efforts to promote the electric vehicle (EV) industry by offering more investment incentive packages aimed at supporting the emerging sector and creating additional EV-related jobs.

BoI Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said EV manufacturers operating in Thailand have so far employed around 9,600 workers. These employees work for EV companies with assembly plants in the country, most of which are Chinese brands such as MG, GWM, BYD, GAC Aion, and Changan. Continued … 

Iran launches waves of missiles at Israel in response to airstrikes

Iran and Israel targeted each other with airstrikes early today after Israel launched its biggest-ever offensive against its longtime foe in a bid to prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon. Continued …

Oil Prices Could Soar to $130 Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions

Global oil prices have surged to a four-year high following Israel’s airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, prompting warnings from JPMorgan that crude could hit $130 a barrel if the conflict intensifies dramatically. The escalating geopolitical tensions have rattled energy markets, with fears growing of potential Iranian retaliation targeting U.S. and Israeli interests. Continued …

 

  • Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe 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.

    Bus Tickets 

    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

    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
            • State Railway – 1590

     

bangkok, covid, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-June 2

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National Community Forest Day in Prachuap Khiri Khan/Monk expelled in Pranburi/Fair pricing or farang pricing?/State hospitals face mounting debt/Learn how to live with floods/Bangkok girds for big rains/Border Talks with Cambodia/Dispute with Cambodia escalates/Smoking rate drops/Thai beauty Miss World 2025/Pattaya’s road safety crisis/ECONOMY: Stalled cash handout scheme sours voters/Industrial output up/Krungsri forecast cut to 2.1%/Pride Month sparks growth/Parcel Wars Enter New Era/Fruit harvests aren’t bringing profits/Influencers told to pay tax/TOURISM: Too expensive for tourists?/Litter at wildlife reserve/Pattaya needs ‘better’ tourists/To boost secondary Thai cities/How new Covid wave Impacts Travel/THAI drops direct US flight plans/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: To showcase Thai Identity/Bangkok best city for remote work/Bangkok hop-on hop-off bus tour/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand and China Boost Solar Ties/Officials catch ‘toxic waste kingpin’/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Smuggling marijuana not a good idea/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

Thailand marks ‘National Community Forest Day 2025’ in Prachuap Khiri Khan

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment held the National Community Forest Day 2025 event this past weekend in Prachuap Khiri Khan province to advance Thailand’s efforts in aligning community forest management with national climate and sustainability goals.

Held at Pattawia Resort and Spa in Pran Buri district, the event supports the country’s targets to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065. Continued …

Monk expelled after being caught visiting motel for sex with woman in Pranburi

A 68-year-old monk has been expelled from the monkhood after being caught on video changing into civilian clothes and entering a short-stay motel with a woman in broad daylight in Pranburi.

The incident came to light after a TikTok user posted footage of the monk, whom they claimed to recognize from his regular alms rounds in the area. The man, seen wearing a cap, patterned T-shirt, and black shorts, was recorded riding pillion on a motorcycle with a woman before the pair entered a motel. Continued …

Fair Pricing? More like farang pricing

The phrase “fair pricing” in Thailand, especially in tourist hubs like Pattaya, often feels more like the setup to a joke than a serious policy. For many expats and long-term visitors, the punchline comes when they discover the well-known but rarely addressed practice of dual pricing — where foreigners are charged significantly more than locals for the exact same services, attractions, or even basic necessities.

It’s a system so normalized that it’s often posted in plain sight. Visit a national park? Thais pay 40 baht. Foreigners? Try 200. Go to a public hospital? Locals get subsidized rates, while foreigners — regardless of visa status or years spent living, working, and paying taxes in Thailand — face inflated bills. Even some temples and museums apply it, despite being funded in part by public money. Continued …

Health ministry admits state hospitals face mounting debt

The Ministry of Public Health has acknowledged that mounting financial debt in Thailand’s state-owned hospitals has become a severe challenge that is affecting healthcare services nationwide.

Ministry officials plan urgent discussions with the National Health Security Office (NHSO), which runs the country’s universal healthcare program, to tackle the crisis. Continued …

Northern Thailand told to learn how to live with annual floods

Last year, floods in Mae Sai district of Chiang Rai province caused economic losses in the millions. Experts say this could be the beginning of an annual pattern of damage caused by severe natural disasters.

In May alone, Mae Sai, a border town opposite Myanmar’s Tachileik to the west and 900 kilometers north of Bangkok, flooded twice. A mass of water from the Sai River rushed through the city. Gold and rare earth mining in Myanmar was said to be the culprit, as well as mega-scale single crop plantations. Continued …

Bangkok girds for big rains

As Thailand officially enters the 2025 monsoon season, concerns about prolonged heavy rainfall and potential flooding are rising, particularly in Bangkok.

Already, fears abound that this year will bring severe floods after early rainfall levels appear unusually high. Meteorologists, however, warn that climate conditions remain unpredictable, requiring close monitoring throughout the season. Continued …

Thailand Ramps Up Border Talks with Cambodia to Ease Tensions

Foreign Minister Maris Sangiamphong has confirmed that urgent efforts are underway to resume bilateral border negotiations with Cambodia following a recent skirmish between troops from both nations.

Maris addressed the incident involving Thai and Cambodian forces on May 28. He expressed regret over the confrontation and assured that Thailand’s response would adhere strictly to both international and domestic law. Continued …

Task force mobilized as dispute with Cambodia escalates

Thailand’s Burapha Task Force, which oversees the Thai-Cambodian border, has moved its troops and weapons to a police compound in the border province of Sa Kaeo, in readiness for any possible border emergency.

Major Gen. Benchapon Dechatiwong na Ayutthaya said yesterday’s relocation is intended to reassure the public that, if a conflict arises at the border, the army will be there to protect them. Continued …

Thailand’s smoking rate drops 48% in 33 years

Thailand has successfully decreased its smoking rate by 48% over the past 33 years, yet tobacco use continues to impose a significant economic burden on low-income households. This was highlighted by the Action on Smoking and Health Foundation (ASH) during World No-Tobacco Day Saturday.

Chairman Doctor Prakit Vathesatogkit, referencing data from tobacco consumption surveys between 1991 and 2024, noted that the smoking rate among Thai adults dropped from 32% in 1991 to 16% in 2024. The most substantial decline occurred in the northern region, with a 58% reduction, whereas the southern region experienced the smallest decrease at 29%. Continued …

Thai beauty queen crowned Miss World 2025

Thai beauty queen Suchata “Opal” Chuangsri was crowned the 72nd Miss World 2025 on Saturday, marking a historic moment in Thai pageantry.

The event took place at the HITEX Convention Center in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. She was officially crowned by last year’s winner, Krystyna Pyszková of the Czech Republic. Continued … 

Helmet ticket hikes alone won’t fix Pattaya’s road safety crisis

As Pattaya gears up for the new 2,000-baht fine for not wearing a helmet, questions swirl over whether stiffer penalties will actually curb the city’s alarming rate of road accidents — or simply pad government coffers.

With one of the highest per-capita rates of motorbike accidents in Thailand, Pattaya’s roads have become a daily gamble for both tourists and locals. Authorities hope the tougher fines will scare riders into compliance. But critics argue it’s a band-aid solution on a system that needs surgery. Continued …

Thailand’s stalled cash handout scheme sours voters

Rungthiwa Pimphanit waited months for a long-promised cash handout of 10,000 baht from Thailand’s ruling party, which she backed in 2023 elections, but now the scheme to stimulate a stalling economy has been put on ice.

“I’m very disappointed and angry,” said the 34-year-old government employee from the northeastern province of Nong Bua Lam Phu, who had counted on the money to pay for her son’s school supplies. “There’s no way I will vote for them again.” Continued …

Local industrial output up after 9-month decline

Industrial output has turned positive for the first time in nine months, with the automotive sector rebounding after a 21-month slump, says Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul.

The Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) rose by 2.2% year-on-year in April, marking its first positive growth in nine months. This signals the start of a potential recovery in the manufacturing sector, which has remained a persistent weakness in the economy in recent years. Continued …

Krungsri forecast for Thailand economic growth cut to 2.1%

Research by Krungsri has revised Thailand’s economic growth forecast for 2025 to 2.1%, down from an earlier estimate of 2.7%. This adjustment comes amid layered risks, including U.S. trade policy uncertainties and domestic pressures.

Pimnara Hirankasi, head of economic research and executive researcher at Bank of Ayudhya Public Co., highlighted mounting pressures on Thailand’s economy from both domestic and international factors. A significant concern is the U.S.’s variable and uncertain import tariff adjustments. Continued …

Thailand embraces the rainbow economy as Pride Month sparks growth

Thailand is among several countries expected to benefit from positive sentiment surrounding the rainbow economy during the Pride Month celebrations in June.

The rainbow economy is experiencing rapid and powerful expansion, particularly in the tourism, entertainment, and lifestyle sectors. This growth is largely driven by the LGBTQIAN+ community, which is estimated to comprise between 400 and 800 million people worldwide, accounting for 5%–10% of the global population. Continued …

Thailand’s Parcel Wars Enter a New Era

The fiercely competitive landscape of Thailand’s courier, express, and parcel (CEP) market is entering a profound period of consolidation.

Following an unprecedented boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, when online shopping became an indispensable part of daily life and attracted a swarm of new domestic and foreign entrants, the sector now finds itself in a ruthless culling phase. Continued …

Bumper fruit harvests aren’t bringing tidy profits

Mangoes have been selling at Huai Khwang Market for as low as 20 baht per kilogram recently. Pikul, a vendor, said she cannot remember the last time mangoes were so cheap. “I’ve never seen prices so low. This situation is really hurting farmers. Mango growers are in trouble — I feel for them,” said Pikul, who has worked at her stall for decades.

Her fruit comes in fresh each morning from the Simummuang wholesale market, but by evening she is forced to sell overripe mangoes at giveaway prices or simply discard them. Continued …

Influencers told to pay income tax

Influencers are being urged to pay their taxes accurately to avoid penalties and interest on unpaid tax liabilities. According to Pinsai Suraswadi, director-general of the Revenue Department, some influencers lack knowledge of tax obligations, while others deliberately evade taxes.

For tax evasion, he said the department strictly enforces the law and imposes a fine of double the tax amount in cases where no tax return is filed, and a fine equal to the underpaid tax amount if a return is filed but incomplete. Continued …

Is Thailand becoming too expensive for tourists?

Despite welcoming over 13.4 million international visitors in the first five months of 2025, Thailand is facing a deeper, more uncomfortable question: Where’s all the money going — and is the country on the right track?

According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, foreign tourists contributed 632.9 billion baht between Jan. 1 and May 18. On the surface, this sounds like a booming recovery — even though total arrivals are down 1.75% compared to last year. But behind the glossy numbers and headline-grabbing festivals lies a more serious conversation: Is Thailand truly reinvesting in its future, or is it stuck in a short-term profit loop? Continued …

Litter at wildlife reserve: ‘Humans can be so disappointing’

A visit to a wildlife reserve took a frustrating turn for one TikToker after she discovered trash littered across the reserve. In a video, content creator Toni Payne (@officialtonipayne) points out discarded paper plates, a foil tray, takeaway containers, and even an egg carton — all left behind on the ground.

“I cannot begin to say the amount of trash that I have walked across just coming here to film today. It is ridiculous,” she said in the video. Continued …

Pattaya needs tourists who can afford to stay, spend, and return

Tourist numbers may be up, but Pattaya’s economy tells a different story. On paper, the arrivals look promising. In reality, local businesses — from hotels to restaurants to massage parlors — are struggling. Why? Because volume doesn’t equal value.

The truth is uncomfortable: Pattaya doesn’t need more people stepping off the plane. It needs visitors who can actually afford to stay, spend generously, and want to come back. Continued …

New route, airline policy to boost secondary Thai cities

Thailand’s Transport Ministry has fleshed out its “New Route-New Airline” initiative to promote aviation tourism to secondary cities by cutting carriers’ landing and parking fees in those provinces.

Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri said the Department of Airports (DoA) wants to encourage more tourists to visit secondary cities. ”The measure will entice carriers to operate more routes to DoA airports in secondary cities.” Continued …

COVID-19’s New Wave And How It’ll Impact Travel

Post the Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variants of COVID-19 that surfaced during 2020-2022, a new sub-variant of the virus, LP.8.1, has emerged. With rising cases predominantly in the Eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and western Pacific regions, the COVID-19 virus has prompted renewed public health and travel measures. Between May 18 to 24, 2025, alone, Thailand recorded 53,563 cases with five deaths.

“The newer variants, like JN.1 and the recent FLiRT, seem to spread more easily but generally cause milder symptoms, especially in people who are vaccinated or have had COVID before. Unlike Delta, which often affects the lungs and causes serious illness, the current variants tend to remain in the upper respiratory tract. Think sore throat, fatigue, mild fever, or congestion. But for older adults or people with health conditions, the risks are still real, so caution is important,” shares Dr. Paresh Sharma (Mahatma Gandhi Hospital, Jaipur, India) . Continued …

THAI partners with airlines, drops direct US flight plans

Thai Airways International (THAI) has reaffirmed its readiness to attract American tourists to Thailand through collaboration with airline partners, despite shelving plans for direct flights to the United States.

THAI CEO Chai Eamsiri explained that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recently upgraded Thailand’s aviation safety rating from Category 2 (CAT2) to Category 1 (CAT1), placing it among countries that meet international aviation standards. Continued …

Six National Symbols to showcase Thai Identity to the World

Thailand has officially declared six national symbols that reflect the essence of Thai identity, spanning nature, architecture, and cultural beliefs, to promote national image and pride on the global stage.

These symbols are intended to strengthen the country’s soft power and present a clearer image of “Thainess” internationally. The selected symbols represent living creatures, natural emblems, traditional design, and cultural practices. Continued …

Bangkok tops global list as best city for remote work

Bangkok has been ranked the world’s best city for remote work, according to a recent report by the New York Post, based on a global index developed by experts at QR Code Generator.

Scoring 69.98 out of 100, the Thai capital stood out for its high-speed internet and affordable cost of living, making it the top choice for digital nomads and remote professionals. Continued …

Explore Bangkok’s landmarks with ease: Hop-on hop-off bus tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok and want to see the city’s most iconic landmarks in a fun and flexible way, the Elephant Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is the perfect choice.

Video 

This unique sightseeing experience lets you explore 16 must-visit attractions across the city with the convenience of unlimited rides throughout the day. Continued …

Thailand and China Boost Solar Ties to Cut Energy Costs

Minister of Energy Pirapan Salirathavibhaga has concluded a five-day visit to China to strengthen cooperation in clean and renewable energy, with a focus on solar technology.

He led a delegation to Jiangsu province and Shanghai, meeting with top solar firms to explore ways to reduce electricity costs and expand access to sustainable energy. The delegation held talks with six major companies involved in solar panel production, inverters, energy storage, and energy-management systems. Continued …

Officials catch ‘toxic waste kingpin’

A major figure behind the illegal trade of hazardous waste has been caught operating three companies involved in processing and exporting toxic industrial dust in violation of multiple laws, the Ministry of Industry said.

Minister of Industry Akanat Promphan appointed a special task force to investigate 11 steel factories using induction furnace (IF) technology in Rayong. The probe followed the closure of Sin Ke Yuan Steel and NFMR Co. in Rayong province for using forged hazardous waste transport documents and falsifying waste reporting. Continued …

Young Brits find smuggling marijuana not a good idea

Two British lads who jetted off for a three-week party spree in Thailand were met with a nasty surprise when they touched down in the UK. Lewis Ellis and James Poutch faced an unexpected detour at Manchester Airport, leading to court appearances due to their return baggage.

Ellis, 20, and Poutch, 19, had ventured to Southeast Asia for the Water Festival in April – a time for ushering in new starts and washing away woes. However, UK customs discovered a hefty 37 kilos of drugs wrapped in plastic within their luggage upon their return. Continued …

  • Chonburi Police Chief Orders Crackdown After Chinese Gang Shooting – Continued …
  • Algerian Pickpockets Arrested in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Tip-Off Leads to Arrest of Chinese Scammer Hiding in Bangkok Condo – Continued …
  • Man arrested at Mumbai airport for carrying venomous snakes from Thailand – Continued …

OPEC+ announces sharp increase in July oil production

Saudi Arabia, Russia and six other key OPEC+ members announced on Saturday a huge increase in crude production for July. They will produce an additional 411,000 barrels a day — the same target set for May and then June — according to a statement, which is more than three times greater than the group had previously planned. Continued …

2 Fans Died, Officer In a Coma after Champions League Celebrations

Two fans died and a police officer is in a coma after mass nationwide celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League victory, European soccer’s biggest prize, French authorities said yesterday. 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.

    Bus Tickets 

    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

    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
        • State Railway – 1590
baht, bangkok, cha am, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-April 26

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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.

Video 

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.

Bus Tickets 

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

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
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, exports, healthcare, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals

Saturday’s news-March 15

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Hua Hin online education/Seven killed on Rama II Road/Cooler temps on their way/Crackdown on Foreign Nationals/European Parliament condemns Thailand/US hits Thai officials with sanctions/Dengue vaccination trial/Pattani blast injures 9/Gold rises/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thai stock exchange plunges/Challenges Impacting Exports/Thailand’s Aluminum Exports Threatened/Songkran To Boost Thai Economy/Get migrants work permits/Path to Thailand’s economic future/Thai businesses most targeted/Residential developers want support/Bangkok property market confidence rises/TOURISM: To miss tourism target/Pattaya tourists from China, Russia, and India/Japan tops Thai travelers’ wishlist/Foreign pilots face axe/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Will Bangkok hawker centers kill the city’s street food scene?/Tubing in Pai/CLIMATE THAILAND: Red tide threatens Gulf/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

Online education program to be offered in Hua Hin

Continued …

Seven killed as Dao Khanong Expressway Bridge collapses on Rama II Road

The under-construction Dao Khanong Expressway Bridge collapsed onto Rama II Road in Bangkok’s Chom Thong district at 1:48 am this morning. Initial reports confirm seven fatalities and many injuries. Authorities are searching for about 30 people believed to be trapped under the debris.

Officials said a concrete beam structure for the new bridge, which is under construction, collapsed onto the existing expressway bridge located about 200 meters from the toll booth. The new bridge is part of the Rama III – Dao Khanong Expressway project. Continued …

Cooler temps on their way

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather warning for tomorrow through Thursday, forecasting an unseasonal drop in temperatures and stormy conditions.

Deputy TMD Director-General Natthawut Daendee said upper Thailand will experience unstable weather, including thunderstorms, hail and possible lightning strikes. Continued …

Thai Immigration Chief Orders Crackdown on Foreign Nationals in Mae Hong Son

The commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, Police Lt. Gen. Phanumas Bunyaluck, visited Mae Hong Son yesterday to implement stricter measures against foreign nationals causing disturbances. He ordered immediate deportation and blacklisting for those found violating Thai laws or engaging in inappropriate behavior.

Phanumas conducted an inspection at the Mae Hong Son Immigration Office, the focus of his visit being foreign nationals who may not be adhering to visa regulations or who have become a public nuisance. Continued …

European Parliament condemns Thailand’s human rights violations

The European Parliament on Thursday passed a resolution condemning Thailand for deporting Uyghurs to China. Members also urged the European Commission to leverage free trade agreement negotiations to pressure Thailand to reform its lese-majesty law, release political prisoners, and halt Uyghur deportations.

It will now adopt a joint resolution on democracy and human rights in Thailand, focusing on the lese-majesty law (Article 112) and the deportation of Uyghur refugees. Continued …

US hits Thai officials with visa sanctions over deportation of Uyghurs

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio yesterday announced sanctions against officials from Thailand, a U.S. ally, for their role in deporting at least 40 Uyghurs to China, where Washington says the members of the Muslim group will face persecution.

The U.S, is “committed to combating China’s efforts to pressure governments to forcibly return Uyghurs and other groups to China, where they are subject to torture and enforced disappearances,” the State Department said in a statement. Continued …

Dengue vaccination trial to begin

The Ministry of Public Health will launch a dengue vaccination trial in Nakhon Phanom province next month. If successful, the vaccine will be included in the universal healthcare scheme, says Minister Somsak Thepsutin.

Somsak said the National Communicable Disease Committee agreed to launch a study into dengue fever vaccinations in children, hoping it will help to decide whether the vaccine is worth investing in as part of universal healthcare benefits. Continued …

Pattani blast injures 9 police on teacher-protection duty

A roadside bomb attack injured nine police officers on teacher-protection duty in Mae Lan district of the southern border province of Pattani this morning.

One officer sustained an eye injury and was taken to Pattani Hospital. Some officers suffered shrapnel wounds while others experienced chest pain. All were taken to Mae Lan Hospital. Continued …

Gold rises above $3,000/oz for first time in historic safe-haven rally

Gold broke through the key $3,000 barrier yesterday for the first time, as investors piled on to a historic rally in the safe-haven asset to seek cover from economic uncertainty sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff war.

Spot gold hit an all-time high of $3,004.86 earlier in the session, before easing 0.1% to $2,986.26 as of 02:01 p.m. ET (1801 GMT) on profit taking. Continued …

Australians welcome departure of baby wombat grabber

(Editor: While this report does not involve Thailand, we got a good chuckle – and you might, too.)

An American influencer who outraged Australians by snatching a baby wombat from its apparently distressed mother flew out of the country yesterday, the government said.

In a now-deleted video posted to Instagram this week, the woman can be seen picking up and running with the hissing wild animal before declaring to the camera: “I caught a baby wombat.” Continued …

  • British Tourists Arrested in Phuket for Reckless Driving and Attack – Continued …
  • Pakistani Man Arrested for Stabbing Ex-Girlfriend in Bangkok – Continued …
  • British, Romanian, Dutch Nationals Arrested in Second Samui Airport Cannabis Bust – Continued …
  • Police Raid Soi Nana, Arrest Foreign Women for Suspected Prostitution – Continued …

Thai stock exchange plunges to pandemic-era levels

After dropping 4.8% in January, the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) index continued its decline in February, shedding another 8.4%. The trend remained this month, with the market now around 1,170 points, not far above its low for the year.

This puts the SET at levels last seen during the pandemic, even though there is no such crisis this year. Continued …

Thailand Confronts Six Major Economic Challenges Impacting Exports

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) warns that six key economic weaknesses could further strain Thailand’s exports amid rising global trade tensions. These vulnerabilities include a strong baht, increasing production costs, labor shortages, limited trade diversification, dependence on key markets, and insufficient technological innovation.

As global uncertainties persist, the TNSC emphasizes the urgency for Thailand to address these issues to maintain its competitiveness in international markets. Continued …

Thailand’s $505 Million Aluminum Exports Threatened by New US Tariffs

The U.S. has increased import tariffs on aluminum by 15%, effective March 12. The Thai Ministry of Commerce is compiling information for the U.S. Trade Policy Working Group to determine negotiation strategies.

The tariff increase will have a significant impact on Thai aluminum producers, as the U.S. is Thailand’s second largest export market and accounts for about 15% of Thailand’s total aluminum exports. In 2024, Thailand exported aluminum products worth 16.998 billion baht ($505 million) to the U.S., reflecting a 65.5% growth. Continued … 

Songkran Set to Boost Thai Economy Amid Challenges

The Songkran festival is projected to infuse 26.5 billion baht into Thailand’s economy. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), this year’s festival is expected to draw 476,000 international tourists, alongside 4.4 million domestic travelers, bolstering both local and national economies.

From April 1216, international tourism is set to inject approximately 7.3 billion baht, marking a 7% increase compared to last year. Meanwhile, domestic tourism is anticipated to bring in around 19.2 billion baht, a 9% rise. Overall, total revenue from the festival could see an 8% uplift year-on-year. Continued …

Get migrants work permits, employers told

The government is urging employers to obtain work permits for migrant workers who are registered but who lack proper documents by March 30, warning that failure to do so will result in the workers losing their legal status and facing deportation.

Employers must submit health certificates, health insurance proof, social security documents, and a 1,000-baht fee. If the deadline is missed, the workers will be classified as illegal and subject to fines from 5,000 to 50,000 baht. They will then be deported and banned from employment for two years. Continued …

McKinsey strategist maps the path to Thailand’s economic future

Thailand should pivot strategically toward high-growth industries to compete in “arenas of competition” in the digital economy, McKinsey strategist Chris Bradley said in offering a vision for Thailand’s economic future. He was speaking at MFC Asset Management’s 50th anniversary celebration in Bangkok yesterday.

Bradley, reflecting on Thailand’s economic journey since 1975, noted that the country has transformed from a rural economy with 60% of its population living below the poverty line to a nation with seven times higher GDP per capita and poverty had reduced to below 6%. However, he warned that Thailand now faces new challenges that require a strategic shift in its industrial focus. Continued …

Thai businesses most targeted in ASEAN for financial phishing

Thai businesses are facing a surge in financial phishing attacks, and cybercriminals are exploiting the region’s burgeoning digital economy, according to a report by global cybersecurity firm Kaspersky.

The company revealed that Thai enterprises were the most targeted in Southeast Asia, experiencing over 240,000 attempted attacks in the past year. Kaspersky’s data shows that its business security solutions blocked 534,759 attempts to open financial phishing links across Southeast Asia in 2024. Continued …

Residential developers want urgent support

Residential developers want swift implementation of property measures, including cuts to transfer and mortgage fees and eased lending curbs, while calling on banks to reduce interest rates by 0.25%, the level of the policy rate reduction, instead of 0.05% to 0.10%.

Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the Thai Condominium Assn., said the housing market slowed significantly in the first two months this year, as the reduction of transfer and mortgage fees to 0.01% for units priced 7 million baht or less expired at the end of last year. Continued …

Bangkok property market shows signs of recovery as confidence rises

The property market in Bangkok and the surrounding region is seeing a surge in confidence, according to the latest figures from the Government Housing Bank’s Real Estate Information Center (REIC).

The Residential Purchase Demand Confidence Index for the fourth quarter of 2024 has climbed to 42.9 points, a 2.4-point increase from the previous quarter, indicating a growing willingness among residents to invest in property. Continued …

Thailand likely to miss tourism target for 2025: ATTA

Fierce competition and lack of confidence in the country’s safety will likely prevent Thailand achieving its target of 39 million foreign arrivals this year, according to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA).

Foreign visitors in 2025 are likely to top 37 million at most, which is still higher than last year’s number of 35.54 million, ATTA President Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn said. He said “several negative factors” are hindering Thailand’s tourism goal, including competition with countries like Japan, China and Vietnam, which are aggressively promoting their tourism to attract foreign visitors. Continued …

What if Pattaya is ‘invaded’ by tourists from China, Russia, and India?

As Pattaya continues to be a popular destination for international tourists, an influx of visitors from China, Russia, and India could bring both exciting opportunities and unique challenges to the city.

These three countries have become major sources of tourists to Thailand, especially with the surge in international arrivals in 2025. From Jan. 1 to March 9, Thailand welcomed 7.6 million international tourists, generating approximately 375.04 billion baht in revenue. Continued …

Japan tops Thai travelers’ wishlist for Songkran

Japan has emerged as the top destination among Thai travelers during the Songkran festival, according to online travel agency Klook.

Advance bookings for activities and trips through Klook’s platform during this year’s Songkran festival have surged by over 50% compared to the previous year. Japan leads the list of most popular destinations for Thai tourists, followed by China, Hong Kong and European countries like Switzerland, he said. Continued …

Foreign pilots face axe on Thai flights

Foreign pilots will not be allowed to fly domestic flights in Thailand next year if the aircraft shortage subsides, the Labor minister says, while the Thai Pilots Assn. has launched legal action to stop the practice.

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the approval for foreign pilots is still on a temporary basis, with a duration of six months that can be extended for another six months. As the approval was announced in December 2024, the measure can be extended until the end of 2025. Continued …

Will Bangkok’s move to Singapore-style hawker centers kill the city’s street food scene?

Nampueng Thong-auam and Somjai Bangsuwannarat have witnessed history on many occasions from their vantage spot in central Bangkok. For four decades, the couple has run a food cart selling grilled corn, right by a major city landmark known as Victory Monument, the site of several protests over the years.

For 40 baht (US$1.20), they offer you a delicious corn cob that has been lathered in coconut milk, salt and palm sugar and grilled over charcoal. The couple, who are both in their 70s, say that they do not make much money, just enough to cover their daily expenses. Continued …

Tubing in Pai: A Summer Favorite for Tourists

The popular summer activity of tubing along the Pai River is drawing crowds in Mae Hong Son’s Pai district. Yesterday, local authorities observed the bustling scene with over 350 participants enjoying the experience. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the tubing every day, with larger gatherings typically on Tuesdays and Fridays, as long as river conditions remain safe. The activity is paused during the rainy season when the river’s current becomes too strong. (aseannow.com)

Red tide threatens marine ecosystem in Gulf of Thailand

The Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center (Central Gulf of Thailand) is monitoring the red tide phenomenon, which could significantly impact the Gulf’s marine ecosystem.

This came after reports of red tide occurrences in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon from 2019 to 2024, and in Surat Thani from 2011 to 2024. The phenomenon, caused by a rapid increase in certain plankton species, is commonly observed from February to April and October to December each year. Continued …

Trump’s champagne threat brings fear and denial to French region

U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of 200-percent tariffs on wine, champagne and other alcoholic drinks from EU countries is proving hard to swallow in France’s champagne region. Continued …

Putin calls on Ukraine troops in Russian-occupied region to ‘surrender’

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday called on beleaguered Ukrainian troops in the Russian region of Kursk to “surrender” after U.S. President Donald Trump pleaded for their lives. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm
  • Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

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
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, climate change, exports, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, wildlife tourism

Friday’s news-March 14

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National Thai Elephant Day/Elephant attacks and damage/Sustainable Human-Elephant Coexistence/Mahout profession on brink of extinction/Imagining a world without the US/Makro PRO Top Grocery E-Commerce Platform/Summer drownings of children/Woman busted with e-cigarettes/Over 70,000 cattle smuggled/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thailand Chooses Casino Cities/Shadow over Thai property sector/Consumer confidence falls/McDonald’s to open 20 outlets/Minor plans US expansion/TOURISM: British Embassy Faces Rising Demands/Tourism’s lost opportunities/Koh Samui’s overtourism/European tourists searching elsewhere/36 tourists injured/Promote private air travel/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok No. 2 food city/CLIMATE THAILAND: Bt29 billion for renewables/Leading Asia’s green tech surge/Chinese battery maker in Chon Buri/Endangered Crocodile spotted/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

Thailand celebrates National Thai Elephant Day

Yesterday was National Thai Elephant Day, celebrated nationwide to honor Thailand’s elephants. At the Elephant Royal Kraal Village in Ayutthaya, activities included offering alms to Buddhist monks and a grand feast, where many jumbos enjoyed a spread of fruits and vegetables. The celebration highlights the deep cultural and historical bond between Thais and elephants. Video …

Bt749 million to address elephant attacks and damage

The Elephant Conservation and Management Committee has approved Bt749 million, to be secured from the Central Fund by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plants Conservation, to address wild elephant attacks on people and the damage they cause to rural communities.

According to the department’s statistics, 18 people have been killed and 13 others injured since last October, compared to 39 fatalities and 18 injured in the previous fiscal year. Continued … 

Early Warning System Achieves Sustainable Human-Elephant Coexistence

Elephants have long been intertwined with Thai history and way of life, symbolizing the king’s royal power, as they were trained for combat, and playing a crucial role in transportation and labor before the advent of machinery.

Currently, Thailand is home to over 4,000 wild elephants scattered across 91 protected areas. While the increasing elephant population is a positive sign for conservation, their natural habitat has been shrinking due to agricultural and community expansion, leading to overlapping living spaces between humans and elephants. Continued …

Mahout profession on brink of extinction before elephants, expert warns

Three government positions have been opened for the first time for mahouts in the National Parks and Wildlife Department, whose main task is to remove wild elephants from people’s areas.

Speaking on Thai Elephant Day yesterday, Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the department’s director-general, said that, when people alert his department about wild elephants wandering into their living areas, he hires local mahouts to handle the situation, but the department believes it should have its own officials for the task. Continued …

Imagining a world without the US

Since taking office, U.S. President Donald Trump has been the ultimate disruptor — surpassing any democratic leader or authoritarian ruler in modern history. He has upended global geopolitics, leaving allies uncertain and adversaries emboldened.

With each impulsive remark, executive order, and withdrawal from international commitments, Trump has shattered the traditional norms of U.S. foreign policy. The question now is: Has Trump isolated America from the world, or has the world turned its back on Trump? Continued …

Makro PRO Crowned Thailand’s Top Grocery E-Commerce Platform

A surge in online orders from small business operators has propelled Makro PRO to the forefront of Thailand’s grocery e-commerce market, securing its position as the country’s No.1 platform in the sector.

The accolade comes from Euromonitor International, a globally renowned market research firm, which highlighted Makro PRO’s dominance in the competitive digital grocery sector. According to the latest report, Makro PRO captured a dominant 39.5% share of total grocery e-commerce sales in 2024. Continued …

Keep an eye on your kids, urge officials, as summer drownings spike

Parents and guardians are urged to ensure the safety of their children during the summer holidays, as drowning remains a leading cause of death in Thailand for children under 15.

The highest number of young drowning cases occur during the school summer vacations from March to May. Statistics show that 173 children below the age of 15 drowned during the summer break last year, with the highest number of incidents occuring in March. Continued …

Woman busted with 10-million-baht worth of e-cigarettes

Officers of the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) on Wednesday arrested a 29-year-old Thai woman at a condominium in Bangkok’s Lat Phrao area for allegedly possessing and selling e-cigarettes and e-liquid worth over 10 million baht.

Investigators launched a sting operation after learning that a Facebook page was selling e-cigarettes and supplies to online customers, CPPD chiefPattanasak Bupphasuwan said on Wednesday. Continued …

Over 70,000 cattle smuggled across Malaysia-Thailand border in 2024

Over 70,000 head of cattle were smuggled across the Malaysia-Thailand border states throughout the past year, said Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu.

He said the smuggling activities were detected in four states, namely Kelantan, Kedah, Perlis and Perak, which have hurt local farmers. The price of beef in the market has plummeted due to the influx of supply from these smuggling activities. Continued …

Another tourist brawl in Pattaya sparks local outrage

Another violent clash between foreign tourists erupted in Jomtien Wednesday, adding to growing concerns about unruly behavior tarnishing Pattaya’s reputation.

The brawl, which took place near Dong Tan Beach, saw two groups of foreigners engaging in a heated dispute before the situation turned violent. Continued …

  • British TikTok Star Jailed in Thailand Over Visa and Benefit Fraud – Continued …
  • Brits and Malaysian Nabbed in Cannabis Bust at Koh Samui Airport – Continued … 
  • Irish woman nabbed in Norway with £1 million worth of Thai cannabis – Continued …
  • Crackdown on Foreign Nationals Storing Dangerous Chemicals in Residential Area – Continued …
  • French National Arrested with Magic Mushrooms at Full Moon Party – Continued …
  • Hungarian man running motorcycle rental business arrested on Koh Phangan – Continued …

Thailand Chooses Cities for Future Casino Complexes

The Thai government has announced plans to develop major entertainment complexes (casinos) in Bangkok, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. This announcement comes amid vocal public criticism, highlighting the country’s strategy to stimulate tourism and economic growth through these ventures.

The proposed complexes are expected to generate approximately 40,000 new jobs, positioning Thailand as a sought-after destination for global tourists and business investments alike, according to the government. Continued …

Global trade war turbulence casts shadow over Thai property sector

Thailand’s real estate sector is bracing for potential turbulence in 2025, as trade war anxieties intersect with a surge in foreign investment, according to analysts at a major industry seminar. Leading figures from the Thai Development Research Institute (TDRI) and Asia Plus Securities warned of economic headwinds, while highlighting emerging opportunities for developers.

Dr Kirida Bhaopichitr, TDRI’s Economic Intelligence Service Project director, identified U.S. trade policy in the second Trump presidency as the most significant risk to both the Thai and global economies. Continued … 

Thai consumer confidence falls for first time in 5 months

Thailand’s consumer confidence fell for the first time in five months over uncertainty from U.S. trade policies, higher living costs and the slow recovery of the domestic economy, a survey showed yesterday.

The consumer index of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce fell to 57.8 in February from 59.0 in January, the university said, having risen for four straight months. Continued …

McDonald’s to open 20 outlets in Thailand in 2025

McDonald’s plans to spend 700 million baht this year on adding new stores and renovating existing ones.

Kittiwan Anuwatesakul, chief executive of McThai Co., said the company aims to open 20 new stores this year, which will account for 70%-80% of the 700-million-baht budget. Moreover, the company plans to renovate 25 stores, she said. Continued …

Thai hotelier Minor plans US expansion to tap White Lotus craze

Minor International, whose hotels in Thailand feature in the hit TV series The White Lotus, plans to expand in the United States to cash in on newfound global fame that has sent its room bookings skyrocketing since the show began airing last month.

Already one of Asia’s largest hospitality groups, Minor will aim to open one Anantara hotel — its flagship luxury brand — in the U.S. by early next year, said Bill Heinecke, the company’s founder and chairman. Continued …

British Embassy Faces Rising Consular Case Demands in Thailand

With a surge in British travel \ers to Thailand post-Covid, there is an increasing demand for consular assistance from the British Embassy in Bangkok. In the past year, the embassy reported handling 2,007 assistance cases, encompassing various serious issues such as deaths, arrests, detentions, hospitalizations, and missing persons, illustrating the often-unforeseen challenges travelers may encounter abroad.

Deaths accounted for over a third of these cases, while more than 10% involved arrests, highlighting the need for urgent consular support in severe situations. Additionally, the team provided over two thousand notarial services and issued around six hundred emergency passports. Continued …

Tourism group laments lost opportunities

The era of more than 10 million Chinese visitors a year to Thailand has passed, given safety concerns in the segment and ineffective law enforcement, according to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA).

ATTA President Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn said the Thai tourism industry has not developed as it should over the past four years when compared with other nations. The lack of new supply and poor management of existing supply has led to stagnant growth opportunities, he said. Continued …

Koh Samui Is Already 4x Denser with Tourists Than Paris

Koh Samui has nearly four times the tourist density per square foot of the Île-de-France region, which includes Paris, one of the world’s most well-known overtourism hotspots.

In 2023, Koh Samui welcomed 3.54 million tourists, packing an island of just 88.3 square miles with an astonishing 40,111 visitors per square mile. This equates to almost 10,000 visitors per day. Continued …

Pattaya’s shift to Asian tourists leaves Europeans searching elsewhere

With Songkran approaching, the question arises whether the weakening baht will entice European tourists back to Pattaya or if the city has already become a hub primarily for Chinese, Indian, and Russian visitors. The Thai baht opened yesterday at 33.77 per U.S. dollar, strengthening slightly from the previous day’s close of 33.87.

However, despite these currency shifts, European tourist numbers in Pattaya may not see a significant boost. The city has increasingly catered to visitors from China, India, and Russia, with businesses and services aligning more with their preferences. Many European travelers, once a dominant presence in Pattaya, may now opt for quieter destinations in Thailand or other Southeast Asian countries where the atmosphere better suits their expectations. Continued …

36 tourists injured, three critically, as tour bus rams utility pole

Thirty-six tourists, both Thai and foreign, were injured when the driver of the tour bus in which they were traveling lost control and slammed into a utility pole in Phetchaburi province, breaking it in half. The accident was reported at around 4am this morning on Phetkasem Road (inbound) in Khao Yoi district of the southern province.

Three of the injured persons suffered critical injuries and were sent to Khao Yoi and Phra Chomklao hospitals, a rescue official said. Continued …

Promote private air travel to bring in high-value tourists: expert

Expanding business aviation could help Thailand achieve its goal of becoming an aviation and tourism hub, according to Experia Events Managing Director Leck Chet Lam, organizer of the Business Aviation Asia Forum & Expo (BAFFEx) 2025. He said he was confident Thailand had the potential to drive a thriving business aviation market.

“Thailand is known the world over for luxury holiday resorts of the type favored by the rich and famous, who tend to want full control over how and when they travel. It therefore stands to reason that business aviation could enable Thailand to achieve its goal of becoming an aviation hub, thanks to the potential for flying anytime and anywhere.” Continued …

Bangkok ranked world’s No. 2 food city

Bangkok has once again proven itself as a global culinary powerhouse, securing second spot in Time Out’s ranking of the world’s best food cities in 2025 — just behind New Orleans. From sizzling street food to upscale dining, the Thai capital continues to captivate food lovers with its mix of affordability, flavor, and convenience.

The city’s world-famous street food culture played a massive role in securing its high ranking, with vendors serving up everything from aromatic bowls of noodles to fiery som tam (papaya salad) at all hours of the day. Continued …

WHAUP to sink Bt29 billion into development of renewables

WHA Utilities and Power (WHAUP), an arm of WHA Corp., one of Thailand’s biggest industrial land developers and operators, is allocating a large portion of its budget to develop its renewable energy business, hoping to earn long-term revenue by serving companies in the digital technology sector.

The development plans are being supported by a budget of 29 billion baht, set to be spent between 2025 and 2029. Almost 75% of the funding is to develop the company’s solar power business, including ground-mounted solar panels and rooftop solar panels, said Somkiat Masunthasuwun, chief executive of WHAUP. Continued …

Thai businesses said leading Asia’s green tech surge

A new report by Alibaba Cloud has revealed that Thai businesses are at the forefront of Asia’s drive toward sustainable technology, with a significant focus on energy-efficient data centers and the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing.

The “Technology-Driven Sustainability Trends and Index 2024” surveyed senior executives across 13 markets in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. It found that 76% of businesses recognize digital technology as a cornerstone of sustainable development. However, concerns remain, with 61% worried about the energy demands of these technologies. Continued …

Chinese battery maker allots Bt50 billion for Chon Buri plants

Chinese battery cell maker Sunwoda Automotive Energy Technology (Thailand) is building two new factories in Thailand, aiming to benefit from the growing electric vehicle (EV) industry here to use the country as its new export base, says the Board of Investment (BoI).

The company plans to spend 50 billion baht to develop two plants in Chon Buri, expecting to start operations later this year. “Sunwoda expects to hire more than 4,000 people, including 900 engineers and researchers,” said Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the BoI. Continued …

Endangered Crocodile spooted in Phitsanulok national park

Researchers have captured images of the critically endangered Thai freshwater crocodile sunbathing in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park in Phitsanulok Province. Known scientifically as Crocodylus siamensis, the Thai freshwater crocodile, sometimes called the Siamese crocodile, is native to Southeast Asia. A fully grown adult measures approximately 3 to 4 meters in length. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm
  • Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

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
  • State Railway – 1590
chiang mai, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, pattaya, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand festivals, thailand islands, tourism

Friday’s news-Feb 21

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About bottled water/Rejects Plan to Lower Electricity Bills/Hot day and thundershowers/ECONOMY: Lifting Alcohol Restrictions/To Reject Casino Entry Rule/Swiss operator for Laem Chabang/SC Asset to move away from property/Headwinds for Thai rice industry/Insurance industry forecast/Free trade deal with Gulf nations/TOURISM: 5.5 Million Visitors/Biometric system overloaded/Pattaya Bars Empty/Rising Tensions Among Tourists/Pai Immigration Scrutiny/Chiang Mai’s Dusit D2 Hotel closes/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Phetchaburi’s Phra Nakhon Khiri Fair/Best Destination for Your Yoga Retreat/CLIMATE THAILAND: Unlocking Solar Potential/Floating Solar Builds Resilience/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

What you may not know about bottled water

Video … 

Council of State Rejects Plan to Lower Electricity Bills

The Council of State, Thailand’s primary legal advisory body, has dismissed a proposal from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) aimed at renegotiating contracts with renewable power firms to reduce electricity bills. The proposal sought to decrease electricity costs by 0.17 baht per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from the current 4.15 baht per unit.

Under pressure from the Pheu Thai-led government, efforts have been underway to lower power prices below 4 baht per unit to alleviate financial strain on consumers and businesses. Continued …

Hot day and thundershowers forecast for most of Thailand

The north, northeast, eastern and central regions, including Bangkok, will experience a hot day and isolated thunderstorms today, the Thai Meteorological Department said this morning.

Isolated thundershowers are expected mostly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung and Songkhla; minimum 21-25°C, maximum 30-34°C; waves about 1-2 meters high and above 2 meters in thundershowers. Continued …

Lifting Alcohol Restrictions Could Boost Thai Economy by Billions

Easing Thailand’s existing restrictions on afternoon alcohol sales could inject an additional 50-100 billion baht into the economy, predominantly through increased spending by foreign tourists, experts in the industry suggest.

Recent findings hint that so-called “high-quality” tourists are prepared to pay an extra $250 (approximately 8,400 baht) daily for premium food and beverage experiences. Anchalee Poomsirkaew, director of the Asia-Pacific International Spirits and Wines Assn., said that relaxing four specific alcohol sale restrictions could maximize revenue impacts, potentially unlocking the full 100 billion baht. Continued …

Cabinet Set to Reject Casino Entry Rule for Thai Nationals

Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has indicated that a contentious proposal regulating casino entry for Thai citizens is unlikely to win cabinet approval. The policy, suggested by the Council of State (CoS), requires Thais to maintain a minimum of 50 million baht (approximately US$ 1.5 million) in fixed deposits for at least six months to gain entry to casino entertainment complexes.

Anutin, who also holds the position of deputy prime minister and leads the Bhumjaithai Party, expressed skepticism over the proposal’s feasibility. He reassured that as a coalition partner, Bhumjaithai remains committed to supporting government policies, provided they don’t negatively impact society. Continued …

Transport ministry looks to Swiss operator for Laem Chabang expansion

Thailand is courting Swiss port operator Terminal Investment Ltd. (TiL) for potential investment in the expansion of Laem Chabang Port, a key component of the country’s strategy to become a regional transportation hub.

Discussions between Thai officials and TiL are focused on the port’s Phase 3 development, including the new E1 and E2 terminals, as the country strives to boost container-handling capacity and solidify Thailand’s position in the region. Continued …

SC Asset to move away from property as market stagnates

Real estate developer SC Asset Corp. plans to rebrand and diversify into non-property businesses next year, as the housing development sector continues to slow down and may take a few more years to return to normal.

Chief Executive Nuttaphong Kunakornwong said the residential market will continue to face three key negative factors carried over from last year: high household debt, excess supply, and low consumer confidence. Continued …

Headwinds for Thai rice industry

Thai rice exports for the 2024-25 harvest season are expected to decrease after a positive 2023-24, due to the easing of Indian export restrictions on the grain, according to BMI, a Fitch Solutions company.

“While we forecast rice production in Thailand to increase by 0.5% year-on-year from 20 million tons in 2023-24 to 20.1 million in 2024-25, we also expect that exports will post a decrease in the coming season,” BMI said. Continued …

Insurance industry forecast to increase 2%-3% in 2025

Thailand’s insurance industry is projected to grow by 2%-3% this year, driven by increasing public awareness of rising medical inflation, an aging society and the extension of the health insurance coverage age to 80, says the Thai Life Assurance Assn. (TLAA).

Increases in medical treatment costs in Thailand have averaged 8%-10% per year, with some years reaching 15%, significantly higher than general consumer inflation. Continued …

Thailand pushes for free trade deal with Gulf nations

Thailand is advancing negotiations on a free trade agreement with Gulf countries to boost trade, tourism, and investment.

Nalinee Taveesin, the chair of Thai Trade Representatives, described the Gulf countries as Thailand’s most significant market in the Middle East, with trade between the two regions reaching approximately US$36 billion last year. Continued …

Thailand’s Tourism Boom: 5.5 Million Visitors and $8B Revenue

Thailand is enjoying a tourism resurgence with over 5.5 million international visitors arriving between Jan. 1 and Feb. 16, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. This boom has generated more than 270 billion baht (about $8 billion), boosting the nation’s economic recovery.

Long-distance travelers have increased by 1.3% in the last week, with Russia, France, and the United States leading the charge. Notably, Russian visitors grew by 7.5% week-on-week. Despite this growth, weekly international arrivals dipped slightly to 784,175, a 6.4% decline from the previous week. Continued …

Thailand’s biometric system overloaded with 50 million records

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has hit a critical roadblock, with its biometric system reaching its maximum capacity of 50 million records, preventing new foreign arrivals from being automatically recorded. The bureau is now forced to manually document arrivals and rely on an online database for security checks until a new system is developed.

Police Col. Neti Khanboon, commander of the database division at the bureau’s IT center, revealed the issue while testifying before the House Committee on National Security, Border Affairs, and National Strategies and Reforms. Continued …

Pattaya Bars Empty Amid Low Season and Shifting Tourism Trends

Pattaya’s tourism dynamics have shifted significantly, transforming the city that was once bustling with Western tourists into a hub primarily frequented by Asian visitors. This change has led to bars that were once thriving during the traditional high season now finding themselves empty.

Historically, Pattaya attracted a surge of European and North American tourists during the winter months, who filled bars, hotels, and nightlife venues. However, the city now predominantly hosts tourists from Japan, Korea, India, China, and the Middle East. These groups travel year-round, unlike their seasonal Western counterparts. Continued …

Pattaya Beach Altercation: Rising Tensions Among Tourists

A street fight erupted Wednesday night near Pattaya Beach, leaving four people injured. The fight involved two Thai women and two Indian men, with a Thai man who attempted to intervene also getting hurt.

The incident began when the Indian men approached the women, reportedly trying to flirt and filming them. Feeling uneasy, one woman demanded the video be deleted, but the man refused, triggering a heated argument that quickly turned violent. Continued … 

Israeli Community in Pai Faces Immigration Scrutiny

The Immigration Bureau of Thailand has turned its attention to the activities of Israelis residing in Pai, a picturesque tourist hub in northern Thailand. Prompted by a series of local complaints, authorities aim to verify the visa and work permit status of Israeli nationals in Mae Hong Son province, following concerns over possible legal violations.

Immigration officers have been directed to collaborate with local police to investigate these issues. This move seeks to ascertain whether any Israelis have overstayed their visas, undertaken unpermitted work, or breached other legal frameworks. Continued … 

Chiang Mai’s Dusit D2 Hotel ceases operations after 18 years

The Dusit D2 Chiang Mai, a landmark hotel in the city, has announced its closure. The hotel officially closed its doors yesterday.

Formerly known as the Chiang Inn Hotel, the Dusit D2 was a prominent fixture on Night Bazaar Road. Designed by National Artist Chulathat Kitibutr in 2004, the hotel’s striking architecture made it a well-known landmark. Continued …

Phetchaburi’s Phra Nakhon Khiri Fair returns for 2025 edition

Phetchaburi’s Phra Nakhon Khiri historical park will come alive again today as the annual fair swings into action for 10 days and nights of unforgettable experiences.

Running until March 2 on the theme “Viman Fha Phra Nakhon Khiri, the Jewel of Siam”, the event promises an even grander spectacle than in previous years. Visitors can expect breathtaking light installations illuminating the iconic mountaintop palace, alongside a rich program of cultural performances showcasing the region’s diverse heritage. Continued …

Koh Phangan: The Best Destination for Your Yoga Retreat in Thailand

When it comes to finding the perfect yoga retreat in Thailand, Koh Phangan stands out as a paradise for wellness seekers. Famous for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and thriving spiritual community, the island has become a global hotspot for yoga, meditation, and holistic healing.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your practice, detox your body, or simply escape the stresses of modern life, Koh Phangan offers the ideal environment for transformation.
At the heart of this wellness haven is Orion Healing Center, one of the island’s most renowned retreat centers. Continued …

Unlocking Solar Potential: Thailand’s Regulatory Shift on Rooftop Solar Systems

Thailand is taking a step forward in accelerating its renewable energy transition. A recent amendment by the Ministry of Industry to the Factory Act eliminated the requirement for a factory license for rooftop solar installations with capacities exceeding 1 MW. This regulatory change presents new opportunities for businesses, industry and the solar sector, while supporting the nation’s sustainability goals.

Under the previous regulation, rooftop solar systems exceeding 1 MW required a factory license. This process was often time-consuming, bureaucratically complex and financially burdensome. By removing this requirement, the Ministry of Industry has effectively lowered the barriers for businesses to adopt large-scale rooftop solar systems. Continued …

Amid Climate Uncertainty, Floating Solar Builds Resilience

Southeast Asia is responsible for nearly a quarter of global energy demand growth through 2035, but it is currently heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels and hydropower. Given recent volatility in both fossil fuel prices and increasing severity and regularity of heatwaves and droughts, which make hydropower less reliable, diversification into domestically located renewable energy sources like solar will have energy security benefits.

This is particularly true for countries like Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, which have significant existing hydropower in their power supply and also significant untapped solar potential. Floating solar (FPV) is a low-cost way to quickly diversify the power mix in ways that complement existing hydropower, support water conservation efforts at existing dams, and reduce the need for expensive new dams, which have negative social and environmental impacts. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

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
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, climate change, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Feb 1

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Coffee to cost more/Hua Hin hotels’ occupancy rate up/PM2.5 cross-border pollution/Bangkok shrouded in Orange-level PM2.5/Campaign targets rice field burning/Man Dies After Wild Elephant Attack/Thai Students Win Cambridge Science Competition/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Economy slowed in December/Factory output misses forecast/Economic powerhouse in the making/Minister to negotiate with US/Global Gem and Jewelry Hub/TOURISM: Emergency landing at Phuket airport/Pattaya tourism surges/Bangkok ranked 2nd best/Phuket as a crypto hub?/Emirates opens new lounge/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s self-sufficient villages/Thailand’s Luxury Wellness Retreats/Food preservation traditions/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thai EV sales could jump 40%/INTERNATIONAL/World awaits Trump tariff deadline/US president repeats tariffs threat/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

Experts break down the new tax on expats – HERE

 

 

Two webinars answer expat tax questions

Ask the Revenue: Pattharaphon Penjham, senior legal officer at the Thailand Revenue Department, answered key expat tax questions. Watch Ask the Revenue

Live Q&A: In this follow-up, Carl Turner of Expat Tax Thailand answered over 80 questions live. Watch Q&A Live Here

To help expats navigate their tax issues, Expat Tax Thailand has scheduled a weekly Q&A webinar every week until the e-filing deadline on April 8. Sign up for next week’s Q&A webinar HERE.

Coffee to cost more from today as higher costs bite producers

The price of instant and ready-to-drink coffee will rise from today, impacting coffee business operators and consumers, the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Assn. said yesterday.

The association’s honorary adviser said coffee manufacturers had hiked the price, as they were suffering from rising cost of production, transport and labor. Continued …

Hua Hin hotels’ occupancy rate up 7.7% in 2024

Thailand’s luxury hotels experienced strong growth in average daily rates (ADR) throughout 2024, increasing by 5.3% year-on-year and 42.7% compared to 2019, according to STR, a global leader in hotel industry research.

Occupancy rates in seven of Thailand’s tourist cities showed steady growth throughout last year, signaling the continued recovery of the Thai hotel industry. STR reported that Chiang Mai experienced the largest year-on–year occupancy increase, at 15.1%, followed by Krabi (13.2%), Samui (11.9%), Hua Hin (7.7%), Bangkok (6.5%), Pattaya (4.7%) and Phuket (4.4%). Continued …

Thailand cracks down on PM2.5 cross-border pollution

In a new move to tackle the smoggy skies, Thailand’s Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) sets its sights on cracking down on PM2.5 pollution stemming from cross-border agricultural burning.

Their bold plan? To roll out strict measures that target corn imports, demanding ironclad proof that the golden kernels come from non-burning cultivation zones. Continued …

Whole of Bangkok shrouded in Orange-level PM2.5 dust today

All 50 districts of Bangkok are affected by PM2.5 dust exceeding the 37.5µg/m³ (micron) safe level. The average is 60.2µg/m³, which is categorized as “Orange” (unhealthy for sensitive groups), according to the Air Quality Information Center of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.

PM2.5 dust levels in northern Bangkok range between 55.3and 64.2µg/m³, 53.4-73.9µg/m³ in eastern Bangkok, 53.9-64.6µg/m³ in the center and 55.1-66.7µg/m³ in the southern part. Continued …

Bangkok campaign targets rice field burning to combat air pollution

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has announced a campaign to eliminate burning in rice fields to tackle air pollution caused by fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

The initiative, launched yesterday in Nong Chok district, aims to address the issue across 80,000 rai of rice paddies and 4,000 farming households in 10 districts, including Nong Chok, Khlong Sam Wa, and Lat Krabang. Continued …

Man Dies After Wild Elephant Attack in Khao Yai National Park

A man has died after being attacked by a wild elephant in Khao Yai National Park, despite efforts by rescue teams to save him.

The director of the Protected Areas Regional Office 7 was notified of the incident by the Khao Phaeng Ma Wildlife Sanctuary. The attack took place in the early hours yesterday near Ban Khlong Sai, Wang Nam Khiao District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Continued … 

Students from Thailand Win ‘Best in World’ Cambridge Schools Science Competition

The International Education group of Cambridge University Press & Assessment (Cambridge) announced that the 2024 “Best in World” winner of the prestigious Cambridge Science Competition is a team from Anglo Singapore International School in Thailand.

The team — comprising ZiKe Huang, Tan Hiranwat, Jintaporn Seemunta, and Kunathorn Jesdaviriya — developed an atmospheric moisture condensation system to address water scarcity, a critical global challenge. Continued …

  • Drunken tourists attack Bolt driver in Pattaya over ‘silent treatment’ – Continued …
  • 5 Chinese nationals arrested crossing illegally into Thailand – Continued …
  • Uzbek man nabbed at Phuket Airport for overstaying visa – Continued …

Bank of Thailand says economy slowed in December

Thailand’s economy slowed in December last year on a monthly basis from weaker exports and manufacturing, the central bank said yesterday.

Thailand’s economic growth has lagged regional peers since the coronavirus 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, hobbled by high household debt and borrowing costs, as well as contracting manufacturing. Continued …

Thai factory output misses forecast as car output slumps

Thailand’s manufacturing production index dropped by a more than expected 2.1% in December from a year earlier, due to a slump in the automotive industry and weak consumption, the Industry Ministry reported yesterday.

The figure compared with a forecast fall of 0.50% for December in a Reuters poll and followed an annual drop of 3.6% in the previous month. Continued …

ASEAN a global economic powerhouse in the making

There has been much talk about ASEAN as a bloc lately, as its potential to emerge as a superpower globally becomes increasingly significant amid geopolitical shifts.

Back in 2016, Jones Lang LaSalle Singapore and Southeast Asia Managing Director Christopher Fossick noted that establishing the ASEAN Economic Community (in 2015) would eventually lead to Southeast Asian nations becoming global economic powerhouses. Continued …

Thai Commerce Minister to negotiate with US on import tariff hike

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan will fly to the U.S. on Monday to negotiate on the import tariff hike on Thai products.

This move came as Thailand was among countries at risk of the U.S. import tariff hike at 10%-20% due to a US$35.42 billion (1.19 trillion baht) trade surplus last year. Continued … 

Thailand Solidifies Position as Global Gem and Jewelry Hub

Thailand’s gem and jewelry industry continues to strengthen its global market position, achieving $9.6 billion in export value (excluding unwrought gold) in 2024, marking an impressive 10.99% growth despite worldwide economic challenges.

The kingdom has secured its place as the world’s second-largest silver jewelry exporter and third-largest colored gemstone exporter, with gemstone exports doubling in value over the past decade. This status has been further cemented by leading mining companies like Fura Gems and Gemfields choosing Thailand as their preferred location for gemstone auctions. Continued …

Engine failure forces emergency landing at Phuket airport

Passengers on a Thai airline flight endured terrifying, life-threatening moments Thursday when their aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Phuket International Airport due to engine failure.

The flight, carrying 150 passengers and crew was approaching Phuket when one of its engines malfunctioned, prompting immediate action from the flight crew. Despite the alarming situation, all onboard escaped unharmed thanks to the calm and professional response of the pilots and cabin crew. Continued …

Pattaya tourism surges with Russian and European influx

Pattaya has experienced a notable increase in tourism during the current high season, with a significant influx of visitors from Russia and Europe, as reported by Thanes Supharahasrangsi, president of theChon Buri Tourism Assn.

Surveys conducted by the association revealed that hotels catering to Russian and European tourists are witnessing high occupancy rates, with some establishments reaching up to 90% capacity. This is particularly true for hotels situated near popular tourist attractions and retail areas. Continued …

Bangkok ranked 2nd best in latest listing

Bangkok has been ranked second after the South African city of Cape Town in Time Out magazine’s 50 Best Cities in the World 2025 list.

The ranking is based on a survey of 18,500 travelers worldwide, which evaluated various aspects of each city, such as culture, food, nightlife, residents’ happiness and overall value for money. Continued …

How feasible is the idea of Phuket as a crypto hub?

The Thai government aims to launch a so-called “Phuket sandbox” for cryptocurrency, with the ambitious goal of making Phuket a crypto hub in Asia.

“Thailand is not ready to allow the nationwide use of cryptocurrency, but has an idea to create the Phuket sandbox that would allow foreign tourists to use crypto to buy goods and services,” Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said in early January. Continued …

Emirates opesn new lounge at Suvarnabhumi airport

Emirates remains confident in Thailand as its Southeast Asia hub after reporting the most business and first-class passengers flying from the country, which prompted the airline to launch its largest overseas lounge at a Suvarnabhumi airport terminal.

Mohammed Alwahedi, area manager for Thailand, Myanmar and Laos at Emirates, said Thailand is an important destination for the airline due to strong demand from premium passengers. Continued … 

Thailand’s self-sufficient villages inspire the world

I live in a village in northern Thailand where most transactions don’t involve money. Here, we grow our food, share supplies, and rely on volunteer work, creating a simple, self-sustained way of life.

It’s a community of over 1,300 people on 500 hectares (1,235.5 acres) of land. Residents grow fresh fruits and vegetables year-round. Some grow rice, while others plant seasonal vegetables. If one family grows spinach, neighbors might plant eggplants, onions, or cabbage. If one grows potatoes, others grow bananas, cucumbers, or beans. Continued …

The Rise of Thailand’s Luxury Wellness Retreats

Forget backpackers and luxury seekers — Thailand’s new rulers are digital nomads sipping iced lattes while coding their way to riches. Meanwhile, wellness fanatics chase enlightenment in overpriced jungle retreats.

Welcome to the wild world of Thai tourism in 2025, where influencers live for free, beaches are overcrowded with remote workers, and wellness gurus charge a fortune for “healing” retreats. Continued …

Food preservation traditions in Southeast Asia

After a bountiful harvest, early Southeast Asians would use different methods to preserve the freshness of fruits and vegetables and prevent them from rotting.

They did the same after the slaughter of an animal or after a big catch from the sea, so that their food supply would last longer without spoiling. Continued …

Thai EV sales could jump 40% in 2025

Thailand is bracing for an extended electric vehicle (EV) price war triggered by a surge in local production from Chinese car makers, a move likely to deal a further blow to a domestic auto industry already struggling with tumbling sales, industry experts said.

EV sales in Thailand, Southeast Asia’s largest EV market, are forecast to jump 40% this year, exceeding 100,000 units and reversing a 8% drop in sales last year, Suroj Sangsnit, president of Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT), said. Continued …

World awaits Trump tariff deadline on Canada, Mexico, China

As of today, U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs on the three biggest U.S. trading partners – Canada, Mexico and China – takes effect, and the global economy is bracing for impact. Continued …

US president repeats tariffs threat to dissuade BRICS nations from replacing dollar

U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday warned off BRICS member countries from replacing the U.S. dollar as a reserve currency by repeating a 100%-tariffs threat he had made weeks after winning the November presidential elections. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

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
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand islands, tourism

Friday’s news-Jan 31

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Webinars answer expat tax questions/Local elections: No alcohol sales/Voters head to polls/Thailand Enforces Burning Ban/Halve PM2.5 safe limit/Urged to wear facemasks/New railcars on the way/Thai Hostages Freed/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: GDP growth of up to 3.5%/Holding back Thai economy/Thailand’s Car Production Drops/7-Eleven owner seeks help/TOURISM: Factors shaping travel industry/Southern hotels boom/40 billion baht into Pattaya’s tourism/Thai Tourism Marketing Push/Russian Tourists Rescued/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s ‘Ghost Gear’/Waste to Energy Market/Bring Battery-Swapping Solutions/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

Experts break down the new tax on expats – HERE

 

 

Two webinars answer expat tax questions

Ask the Revenue: Pattharaphon Penjham, senior legal officer at the Thailand Revenue Department, answered key expat tax questions. Watch Ask the Revenue

Live Q&A: In this follow-up, Carl Turner of Expat Tax Thailand answered over 80 questions live. Watch Q&A Live Here

To help expats navigate their tax issues, Expat Tax Thailand has scheduled a weekly Q&A webinar every week until the e-filing deadline on April 8. Sign up for next week’s Q&A webinar HERE.

Local elections: No alcohol sales from today at 6pm to Saturday at 6pm

 

 

Thailand’s big-city challenges spotlighted as voters head to polls

Big challenges lie ahead for the winners of tomorrow’s local elections in 47 provinces – especially in the key tourism cities of Phuket and Chiang Mai.

Voters will cast ballots to select chief executives of their provincial administrative organizations, along with provincial councilors. The successful candidates will be expected to deliver on their election promises – though experts warn they may struggle to meet expectations. Continued …

Thailand Enforces Burning Ban to Combat PM2.5 Pollution

Thailand has instituted a nationwide burning ban to address escalating PM2.5 pollution levels, as stagnant air circulation is expected to persist until early February, potentially exacerbating the situation. The government, keen on mitigating the pollution at its source, announced strict enforcement of the ban across the country.

A government spokesperson said the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee, which he advises, has taken decisive steps in response to this environmental challenge by heightening measures in regions with the highest pollution concentrations. Continued …

Experts urge Thailand to halve PM2.5 safe limit to cut cancer cases

Medical experts have called on the Thai government to slash its safe limit of PM2.5 air pollution by more than half, saying this would reduce cancer cases in the country by 44%.

The proposal to cut the current safe threshold from 37.5 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) to 15 µg/m³ would bring Thailand in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Continued …

Bangkokians urged to wear facemasks as smog worsens

The air quality in most areas of the Bangkok metropolitan region exceeded the safety standard this morning, the Air Quality Information Center of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) said.

The center reported the average PM2.5 levels throughout the city on Friday at 48.7 micrograms per cubic meter (mcg), well above the country’s standard of 37.5 mcg over a three-hour average (5am to 7am). Continued …

New railcars on the way – but not until 2030

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has approved a 24.15-billion-baht procurement plan for 184 new air-conditioned diesel railcars, replacing aging rolling stock that has been in service for over three decades.

SRT Gov. Veeris Ammarapala confirmed that the project will replace 10 long-distance passenger trains and introduce 52 new trains, 46 for medium-range routes and six for long-distance travel. Routes for Surat Thani and Chumphon are included in the upgrade. Continued … 

Thai Hostages Freed: Five Safely Released from Gaza

In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, two Israeli and five Thai hostages have been released by Palestinian militants in Gaza and have safely crossed into Israeli territory, according to an official announcement yesterday.

The five Thai nationals are to be received by Thai government representatives stationed near the Gaza border. The release comes amid a broader negotiation that initially involved exchanging hostages for Palestinian prisoners as part of an agreement to pause hostilities in the besieged coastal region. Continued …

Authorities Nab 17 Foreigners in Island Immigration Raids

Authorities have intensified their efforts to clamp down on illegal immigration activities on some of Thailand’s renowned tourist hotspots. A recent sweep on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao has led to the arrest of 17 foreigners and one Thai national, accused of breaching immigration laws and operating without necessary permits.

Surat Thani’s provincial immigration office embarked on this operation after receiving information about foreigners allegedly exploiting tourist visas to engage in unlawful work practices on the islands. Continued …

  • Foreign Tourist Sparks Outrage by Urinating in Phuket Airport – Continued …
  • 5 Frenchmen arrested for running police checkpoint in Phuket – Continued …
  • Unlicensed Russian Tour Guide Arrested for Illegally Working in Bangkok – Continued …

Fiscal office anticipates GDP growth of up to 3.5%

The Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) expects economic expansion of up to 3.5% is likely this year, rising from 2.5% last year. However, the Finance Ministry’s planning unit still projects average annual growth of 3% this year, within a range of 2.5% to 3.5%.

Pornchai Thiraveja, director-general of the FPO, said four factors should drive the growth: private consumption, exports, tourism, and public and private investment. Continued …

Weak consumption holding back Thai economy: central bank

Thailand’s economic growth may falter this year, following a weaker-than-expected fourth quarter when consumption cratered despite a government cash handout aimed up firing up sluggish growth, according to Bank of Thailand Gov. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput.

The central bank previously forecast that the economy could expand by 2.9% this year, lower than the Ministry of Finance projection of 3%. “I have to say that there is some downside risk to that figure,” Sethaput said. Continued …

Thailand’s Car Production Drops by 20% in 2024, Reaching Four-Year Low

Thailand’s car production declined by 20% in 2024 compared to the previous year, hitting its lowest level in four years, as domestic sales and exports struggled to gain momentum. Industry experts attribute this downturn to global economic uncertainties, rising production costs, and weakened consumer demand both locally and internationally.

Manufacturers are now exploring strategies to revitalize the sector, including investments in electric vehicle (EV) production and government incentives aimed at boosting sales and exports. However, recovery is expected to be gradual, with analysts predicting a modest rebound in the coming years. Continued …

Japanese 7-Eleven owner seeks help from CP Group

The founding family of Seven & i Holdings is asking Thailand’s Charoen Pokphand Group to invest in a management buyout of the Japanese retailing giant.

The Seven & i subsidiary Seven-Eleven Japan owns 100% of 7-Eleven Inc., which has about 85,000 stores worldwide. CP is the major shareholder of SET-listed CP All Plc, which has about 15,000 7-Eleven branches in Thailand. Continued …

10 factors shaping Thailand’s travel industry

Thailand’s travel industry has long been a beacon of Southeast Asia’s tourism sector, drawing millions of visitors annually with its golden temples, turquoise waters, and boisterous street markets.

However, the travel industry’s path has been anything but smooth. Despite the hurdles, it has weathered the challenges associated with overtourism — the highs of record-breaking visitor numbers to the lows of politically fueled airport lockouts and Covid pandemic-induced closures. Continued …

Southern hotels boom amid tourist influx

Robust tourism should help hotels in the south enjoy surging room rates and service charges for both high and low seasons, as many five-star beach resorts have already announced a new round of service charges, with the highest rate reaching 92,924 baht in January.

Suksit Suvunditkul, president of the southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Assn., said many hotels in Phuket have been focusing more on driving room rates than occupancy, as well as utilizing a dynamic pricing strategy rather than binding themselves with fixed contract rates, as in the past. Continued …

Investors to pump 40 billion baht into Pattaya’s tourism sector

Investors are set to inject 40 billion baht into Pattaya, focusing on new hotels and attractions to enhance tourism.

On Wednesday, Wallaya Traisorat, CEO and president of Asset World Corp. (AWC) announced the opening of Meliá Pattaya Hotel, a 234-room property with an investment exceeding 2 billion baht. This hotel targets workcation travelers, digital nomads, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) visitors, young lifestyle seekers, and luxury tourists desiring premium stays. Continued …

Thai Tourism Marketing Push for Post Chinese New Year Holiday

Thailand’s tourism sector faces mixed signals as Chinese tourist arrivals show both growth and concerning trends during the Lunar New Year period. While Airports of Thailand (AOT) reports strong overall numbers with 769,195 Chinese passengers expected during the festival, marking a 22.6% increase from last year, industry insiders note some worrying patterns.

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) reports a 10%-20% decline in Chinese independent travelers, with an even sharper drop in group tours. Despite daily arrival numbers exceeding 20,000 visitors during the holiday season, tourism officials are preparing for additional challenges in the coming months. Continued …

Russian Tourists With Children Rescued After Phuket Tour Boat Sinks

A Russian family’s island excursion in Phuket nearly ended in tragedy when their tour boat began taking on water near Phi Phi Island. The family, who had booked their trip through a local agency without receiving an official receipt, was left stranded at sea before being rescued by a passing fishing vessel.

Mikhail, a Russian tourist vacationing in Phuket with his family, had purchased a boat tour to Phi Phi Island through a Patong-based tour company. The trip cost 3,300 baht, but instead of receiving an official receipt, he was handed only a handwritten note. Continued … 

How Thailand’s Waters Are Choked with Deadly ‘Ghost Gear’

In the vibrant depths of Thailand’s Gulf, a hidden crisis unfolds — discarded fishing gear, also known as “ghost gear,” is wreaking havoc on marine life. Teams of determined scientists and passionate scuba divers have uncovered alarming evidence: this neglected debris accounts for a staggering 10% of all marine plastic waste, ensnaring countless species, from delicate sea snails to majestic whale sharks.

During a dive in 2023, researchers stumbled upon colonies of the elusive Neptune’s cup sponge, only to discover that many were ensnared in abandoned nets. This revelation sparked concern for marine biodiversity, demonstrating how ghost gear creates a sinister cycle of destruction — trapped creatures lure predators, which in turn become victims themselves, perpetuating a deadly loop. Continued …

Waste to Energy Market Forecast

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, the waste-to-energy market size was valued at $35.6 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $56 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2023 to 2032.

Waste to energy (WtE) refers to the process of generating energy, typically in the form of electricity and heat, from the conversion of various types of waste materials. This approach helps address both waste-management challenges and the growing demand for renewable energy sources. The primary objective is to recover energy from waste that would otherwise be sent to landfills or left untreated. Continued …

U Power and Ezzy Transporter to Bring Battery-Swapping Solutions to Thailand

U Power (UCAR) has signed a cooperation agreement with Ezzy Transporter to establish Greendrive Tech Co. , a joint venture focused on expanding EV battery-swapping solutions in Thailand. The venture will integrate U Power’s UOTTA battery-swapping technology into custom vehicles, including taxis, ride-sharing vehicles, and pickup trucks.

The joint venture will focus on three core areas: customizing battery-swapping electric vehicles, developing market strategies for the battery-swapping ecosystem, and leading marketing initiatives for battery-swapping pickup trucks. An initial production run of 2,000 custom-built vehicles is scheduled for completion in 2025. Continued …

No survivors from plane, helicopter collision in Washington

U.S. officials said yesterday there were likely no survivors after a passenger jet carrying 64 people collided in midair with a military helicopter and crashed into the icy waters of Washington’s Potomac river. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

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
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand beaches, thailand islands, tourism, wildlife tourism

Thursday’s news- Jan 30

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Alcohol ban Friday, Saturday/Harvest Wine Run/Tiger and 3 cubs spotted/Tiger numbers bouncing back/Unsafe levels of smog/Bangkok braces for rising PM2.5/Heavy rain and strong monsoon/22 fraudulent websites/Man Killed by Elephant/Hamas Set to Release Five Thai Hostages/US aircraft carrier arrives/To tackle deep south conflict/Hospitals in Thai refugee camps shut/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: TikTok’s $3.76 billion Thai data center/High-speed rail link to China/Chinese firms invest Bt547.76B/Developers target condo market/TOURISM: Destination Visa loophole/Privilege Card concerned with DTV/Pattaya’s tourism takes a hit/TAT touts bright start for Chinese arrivals/Chiang Mai promoting welless tourism/Motorcycle crash leaves Russian tourist dead/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Temples, elephants, and tales of Siam/Best beaches in Koh Samui/Week in This Lesser-known Part of Thailand/’Gastrainable Tourism’/CLIMATE THAILAND: Plastic waste warehouse fireLINKS: 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

Experts break down the new tax on expats – HERE

 

Local elections cause alcohol ban Friday, Saturday

Continued …

 

Harvest Wine Run at Monsoon Valley Feb 25

Continued …

Tiger and 3 cubs spotted at Kaeng Krachan Park

Continued …

Tiger numbers bouncing back in Thailand’s deep wild west

A footprint and a pile of animal scat is the spark that sets a group of rangers on a special trek through a vast forest complex in Thailand’s deep west. National park personnel and researchers have traversed undulating dirt trails through thick and dry evergreen forest, home to black bears, elephants, tapirs and pheasants.

Video 

While all animal activity is of interest, this is primarily a tiger hunt – one designed to save the big cat. The traps being laid out here – in Mae Wong national park some 360 kilometers northwest of Bangkok – are of the camera variety only. Continued … 

Unsafe levels of smog in 67 provinces

Sixty-seven out of 77 provinces in Thailand were shrouded with unsafe levels of ultrafine dust pollution this morning, according to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA).

Sixty-four other provinces faced orange levels (starting to affect health) of PM2.5 ranging from 38.3 to 73.8. They included Ayutthaya, Bangkok, Chiang Rai, Chon Buri, Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phuket, Samut Prakan and Songkhla. Continued …

Bangkok braces for rising PM2.5 levels over next 7 days

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is calling on residents and local agencies to intensify their efforts in controlling air pollution, as PM2.5 levels are projected to rise for seven days from today.

PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing health risks such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Continued …

Thailand braces for heavy rain and strong monsoon impact

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasts a weakening cold air mass and heavy rain over upper Thailand, though chilly conditions persist, while a strong monsoon affects the south. Yesterday, six provinces were expected to experience heavy rain.

The strong northeast monsoon affecting the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region is causing high waves, especially in the lower Gulf, where they reach 2 to 3 meters. Thunderstorms can increase wave heights beyond 3 meters. Continued …

Warning issued about 22 fraudulent websites

Thai cyber police have warned people not to fall victim to 22 dangerous websites by not clicking them or they might end up having their personal information stolen.

Scammers often create fake websites about investment schemes or job opportunities to earn extra income, and end up tricking people who click on them into giving personal information. Continued …

Rescuers Discover Body of Man Killed by Elephant in Rubber Plantation

In an incident highlighting the ongoing human-wildlife conflict in rural Thailand, the body of a 40-year-old man, who had been missing for six days, was discovered in a rubber plantation. The deceased is believed to have been trampled by a wild elephant.

The victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was found in the rubber plantation in the Thung Maha Charoen subdistrict, Sa Kaeo Province. Relatives of the deceased had been searching for him since he went missing nearly a week ago. Continued …

Hamas Set to Release Five Thai Hostages Today

In the latest development regarding the ongoing hostage crisis, an Israeli official confirmed yesterday that Hamas is set to release five Thai nationals in a planned hostage exchange scheduled for today.

While the official did not disclose the names of the Thai nationals, it was confirmed that the release is part of a broader ceasefire agreement aimed at halting the conflict in Gaza. Continued …

US aircraft carrier arrives in Thailand

The USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), one of the world’s most powerful Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, has docked at Laem Chabang port on a scheduled visit.

At a length of 333 meters, the USS Carl Vinson is more than just a military vessel; it is a floating city. The ship supports a crew of over 5,000, including its embarked air wing. The carrier is equipped to carry more than 60 aircraft, including cutting-edge F-35C Lightning II fighter jets and F/A-18E/F Super Hornets. Continued …

New Thai team to tackle deep south conflict amid growing violence

A new government team dedicated to peace negotiations will be formed to address the ongoing conflict in the deep south, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.

Phumtham stated that the leader of the new team has yet to be decided. The choice could involve reappointing the previous team or opting for a new one, contingent on a comprehensive evaluation of strategies designed to resolve the long-standing insurgency. Continued …

Hospitals in Thai refugee camps shut as US suspends aid

Seven hospitals serving refugees on the Thai-Myanmar border have halted medical services following the Trump administration’s 90-day suspension of foreign aid funding.

Saw Saw, a former NGO official, confirmed that hospitals in seven refugee camps – three in Tak province, two in Mae Hong Son, one in Ratchaburi, and one in Kanchanaburi – had suspended treatment after the U.S. ended over 40 years of funding and no other support was available. Medical staff, including doctors and nurses, have withdrawn and patients have been forced to seek treatment elsewhere, he added. Continued …

  • Illegal Russian, Estonian building workers arrested on Koh Phangan – Continued …
  • Pattaya police book illegal Russian guide – Continued … 
  • 2 Chinese and 4 Burmese nationals arrested in Bangkok salon raid – Continued …
  • Drunk Foreign Driver Kills Bull in Chaiyaphum Crash – Continued …

TikTok’s $3.76 billion Thai data center investment approved

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has approved a significant investment by TikTok, the popular video-sharing platform, of over 126 billion baht (US$3.76 billion) in establishing a data center in the country.

The investment will see TikTok, a subsidiary of ByteDance, establish server and related infrastructure in high-performance data centers located in Bangkok, Samut Prakan, and Chachoengsao provinces. Continued …

Thailand expects high-speed rail link to China to operate from 2030

Thailand expects its 609-kilometer portion of a high-speed railway that will connect it with China through Laos to begin operations in 2030, nearly a decade later than originally planned.

More than a third of construction has been completed in the segment connecting the capital Bangkok to the city of Nakhon Ratchasima, about 220 kilometers away, and the line to Nong Khai at the border with Laos would be ready by 2030, said a Thai government spokesperson. Continued …

Over 500 Chinese firms have invested approximately 547.76B baht in Thailand

Amata City Rayong has become the most popular industrial estate for Chinese manufacturers, who have opened over 500 factories in Thailand, with investments worth over 547.76 billion baht in recent years, the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) announced.

The IEAT reported that, in the past few years, Chinese manufacturers have opened 585 factories and created 152,541 jobs across seven industries. The IEAT also noted that Chinese investments now account for 14% of all foreign direct investments in the country. Continued …

Thai property developers target condo market amid stagnation

Leading Thai property developers are rolling out ambitious strategies for 2025 as the real estate market faces continued headwinds, with experts forecasting flat growth compared to 2024.

The challenging environment has prompted major players to diversify their portfolios and adopt innovative approaches to capture existing demand. Continued …

Thailand’s Destination Visa loophole that could cost you

The much-hyped Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is proving to be more of a bureaucratic headache than a dream ticket. While Bangkok Immigration (Division 1) has published criteria for extending the visa by six months, these guidelines aren’t binding on provincial offices, leaving holders navigating a minefield of uncertainty.

The biggest revelation? It’s far easier to leave the country every 180 days than to fight through the paperwork jungle for a local extension. A review of the DTV Facebook group shows that 75% of holders say a simple border hop is the safest bet over the five-year validity of the visa. Continued …

Thailand Privilege Card concerned DTV visa will eat into its shares

Thailand Privilege Card yesterday urged the government to enhance privileges for its customers, warning that the new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) could lure them away.

The concern was raised by Manatase Annawat, president of Thailand Privilege Card, who pointed out that the DTV visa is significantly cheaper than even the entry-level privilege card, while offering similar benefits to foreigners. Continued …

Pattaya’s tourism takes a hit after Chinese abduction

Thailand’s tourism industry has been rocked by the recent abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing, leaving popular hotspots like Pattaya eerily quiet. The star was allegedly lured to Thailand under false pretences before being trafficked across the border and held captive in Myawaddy, Myanmar.

While Thai police scrambled to rescue the actor, the fallout was swift. News of the terrifying ordeal spread like wildfire in China, sparking fears over safety in Thailand and sending shockwaves through the tourism sector. Once bustling with Chinese visitors, Pattaya is witnessing a drastic downturn in arrivals, with holidaymakers choosing to stay away. Continued …

TAT touts bright start for New Year arrivals from China

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is working toward increasing charter flights from secondary cities in China, while preparing to launch the first phase of the domestic “We Travel Together” subsidy, offering 1 million privileges in June.

Chuwit Sirivejkul, TAT regional director of marketing for East Asia, said Thailand had so far welcomed 22,000-24,000 Chinese tourists per day on average in January. Continued …

Chiang Mai promoting welless tourism despite air pollution

As tourism operators in Chiang Mai brace for the smog season over the coming months, they hope the pollution will be less severe this year than in previous years.

The industry is intensifying efforts to market the province as a wellness destination to counter the damaging reputation derived from the persistently high level of pollution it encouters at this time of year. Continued …

High-speed motorcycle crash leaves Russian tourist dead, 2 injured

A collision on Jomtien Second Road in Pattaya has left one Russian tourist dead and two others seriously injured after a high-speed motorcycle collision late night.

The crash occurred at approximately 11:30 pm in front of the Atlantis Condo Resort, when a foreign motorcyclist, riding a KTM big bike, struck a Russian couple crossing the road hand-in-hand. The force of the impact sent both pedestrians flying, leaving one dead and the other critically injured. Continued …

Temples, elephants, and tales of Siam

Thailand, now one of the world’s most-visited destinations, was once an enigma to the Europeans. In the late 19th century, Siam, as it was then known, began offering a glimpse into its unknown kingdom through the expedition of Norwegian ethnographer Carl Bock.

Bock’s journey, undertaken with the blessing of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), is now on display in an exhibition at the National Library in Bangkok. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the kingdom through Bock’s eyes. Continued …

Best beaches in Koh Samui

At 25 kilometers long and 21 kilometers wide, it’s hardly surprising that Koh Samui – Thailand’s second biggest island – is a beach lover’s nirvana. Continued …

I Spent a Week in This Lesser-known Part of Thailand and It Was Paradise

In August, I traveled up Thailand’s western coast, from the island of Phuket to the laid-back province of Phang Nga. The region is famous for the dramatic limestone karst formations that rise from Phang Nga Bay, but traveling off-season — and off the beaten path — allowed me to see it from a new angle.

At a beachfront hotel near the town of Khao Lak, monsoon rain released a cascade of fragrance from the tropical flowers in the garden. Watching the sun rise over the Andaman Sea the next morning, I found it hard to believe this pristine shoreline was, in 2004, the site of a devastating tsunami. Continued …

‘Gastrainable Tourism’ – ASEAN’s golden opportunity

Gastronomy Tourism has gained widespread popularity worldwide, especially in ASEAN, which is rich in cultural heritage and diverse cuisines that attract tourists globally.

This form of tourism offers not only unique food flavors but also the opportunity to experience local lifestyles and the long-standing wisdom passed down through generations. Continued …

Operator of plastic waste warehouse that caught fire ‘violated industrial laws’

The operator of Teng Fa Plastic and Metal warehouse in Ban Paew district of Samut Sakhon province, which was engulfed in flames on Wednesday, was allegedly in violation of industrial laws, the Provincial Industry Office said.

A fire broke out at a large pile of recyclable plastic and rubber waste at the 13-rai (2.08 hectares) garbage warehouse compound, destroying two warehouses there. No injuries had been reported as of press time. Despite the efforts of 20 fire engines, the flames had yet to be brought under control due to inflammable waste and chemicals. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

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
  • State Railway – 1590