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Friday’s news-Aug 21

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  • Thailand Entering Its Second Lost Decade/Rules for ride-hailing and delivery apps/Country with gun problems/Phang Nga school shooting threat/Nan braces for more rain/Heavy flooding submerges Wiang Sa/Flash floods in Mae Sot/TikTok defense against online scams/American father reunited with son
  • ECONOMY: KResearch keeps growth forecast at 2% /Thai consumers taking charge/Anutin denies Japanese firms are leaving
  • TOURISM: Launch of ‘Thai Tiew Thai Plus’/Hotels expect Q3 revenue fall/Chao Phraya express boat fares to rise
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: A Guide to Phang Nga/Bangkok eighth in global attractive city index
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok’s EV bus transition/115 EVs for Grab’s ride-hailing fleet/Global EV Sales to Hit 27%
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/Court fines Israeli man over Koh Samui zoo threatHUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

A Preliminary Case for Thailand Entering Its Second Lost Decade

Here is why Thailand might be entering a second consecutive lost decade. The first lost decade, between May 2014 and August 2023 was largely brought about by coup leader Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, who ushered in a period of relative economic stagnation and uncertainty.

Fast-forward to the present: August 2026. Consider these news items. ​Thailand has just registered the lowest economic growth among major ASEAN economies. The economy grew by just 1.9% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026. Tourist arrivals have declined by nearly 3% so far this year, while tourism is growing in Vietnam and Japan. Continued … 

Thailand plans rules for ride-hailing and delivery apps

Thailand’s competition regulator is preparing new rules for ride-hailing and on-demand delivery platforms amid concerns over market concentration, unfair commission structures, opaque algorithms and unequal operating conditions.

The proposed requirements would regulate platform fees, commercial terms and safety standards before being developed into a formal code of practice for the industry. Continued … 

The U.S. isn’t the only country with gun problems

Nine people were gunned down after a 14-year-old took his grandfather’s gun and opened fire at a school just outside Bangkok. Within days, Thailand saw two more different but deadly shootings.

The tragedies have reignited the gun control debate in a country where people are estimated to collectively own more than 10 million firearms. In response, the government is proposing tighter regulation, but critics are questioning whether the approach even gets to the heart of the problem. Video … 

Panic at Phang Nga school after online shooting threat

A school in Phang Nga was terrified yesterday) after a man brandishing a gun threatened to mount an attack in an online post, with the motive apparently stemming from a family dispute.

The school is located in Takua Pa district of the southern coastal province with the suspect displaying a firearm as he specifically threatened this school in his social media post, causing significant concern among parents and the public over the safety of their children and teachers, as well as other staff. Continued … 

Nan braces for more heavy rain, with saturated soil increasing flood risk

The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has warned Nan residents to prepare for another spell of heavy rain on Sunday, with saturated soil increasing the risk of further flash floods and rapid run-off even as river levels begin to stabilize and fall.

Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri chaired a meeting yesterday to review flooding across the Nan River basin, coordinate assistance for affected communities and develop measures to address the province’s recurring flood problems over the longer term. Continued … 

Heavy flooding submerges Wiang Sa, marooning over 1,000 Nan households

Floodwaters flowing down the Nan River inundated five subdistricts in Wiang Sa district of Nan province overnight, with water levels reaching between 1.5 and 3 meters and marooning over 1,000 households.

As the final bottleneck for mass runoffs originating from Pua, Tha Wang Pha and Muang districts before heading downstream into the Sirikit Dam reservoir, Wiang Sa remains under close watch. Continued … 

Heavy rain triggers flash floods in Mae Sot as Moei River overflows

Torrential rain throughout the night triggered sudden flash floods in Mae Sot, inundating the city’s major commercial areas and forcing residents and traders to scramble to move their belongings to higher ground.

At about 4 am today, heavy rain that had continued through the night caused a huge volume of runoff to surge from waterways in the Mae Sot area, flooding communities across Mae Sot Municipality. Many residents were asleep when emergency announcements warned them to wake up and move their belongings immediately. Continued … 

TikTok builds three-layer defense against online scams in Thailand

TikTok has expanded its ThaisAware campaign as it enters its third year, bringing together 13 public-sector and civil-society partners to strengthen online-scam awareness in Thailand.

First launched in 2024 with eight partners, the initiative expanded to 12 in its second year and now involves 13 organizations. The 2026 campaign comes as online fraud continues to cause substantial losses. Continued … 

American father reunited with son after nearly 2 years of searching

An American mother wanted in an alleged parental kidnapping case in the US was arrested in Bangkok after allegedly taking her eight-year-old son from his father and remaining in hiding for nearly two years.

The 45-year-old American woman, identified as Linda, was arrested at an accommodation in Prawet district of Bangkok on Wednesday 19 following a parental kidnapping warrant issued by an Oregon court in the United States. Immigration officials also found her son at the location and arranged for his protection and welfare. Continued … 

KResearch keeps Thailand’s 2026 growth forecast at 2% as US trade risks rise

Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch) has maintained its forecast for Thailand’s economy to grow by 2% in 2026, despite second-quarter GDP expanding by a stronger-than-expected 1.9%.

The research house warned that the economy’s underlying momentum was weakening because much of the better-than-expected growth came from inventory accumulation, while several other economic drivers slowed. Continued … 

Thai consumers taking charge of their wallets and spending despite low growth

Thai consumers are raiding savings, borrowing and turning to deferred payments as six years of economic weakness squeeze household finances. A new Milieu Thailand survey found 77% recently needed savings or borrowing to cover expenses, while 71% expect to become even more cautious. Yet, consumers are refusing to shut their wallets.

More than half are spending more, while 69% still make room for personal rewards. Price now dominates purchasing decisions as families protect groceries and utilities while cutting travel and fashion. Despite the squeeze, half expect their finances to improve by 2027. Continued … 

Anutin denies Japanese firms are leaving Thailand amid EV shift

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed reports that Japanese investors are moving their production bases out of Thailand, saying the government will not abandon long-standing investors and will fully support the country’s traditional automotive industry.

Anutin said the government places importance on investors from all countries, particularly Japan, which has used Thailand as a major production base for decades and has become deeply integrated into the country’s industrial sector. The government is prepared to adjust business conditions and remove obstacles to ensure Japanese investors remain confident in Thailand, he said. Continued … 

Ministry prepares launch of ‘Thai Tiew Thai Plus’ tourism program in October

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is gearing up for the launch, tentatively on Oct. 1, of the first phase of the “Thai Tiew Thai Plus” program, aimed at boosting domestic tourism.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said 1.75 billion baht will be used to fund the first phase of the program, adding that, if it is successful, a second phase would be considered. Continued …

Thai hotels expect Q3 revenue fall

Most Thai hotel operators expect their revenue to decline year on year during the third quarter of 2026, with lower-rated properties and hotels in the south likely to face the greatest pressure during the low season.

The industry is looking to the government’s proposed Thai Tiew Thai Plus domestic-tourism program to stimulate travel and support hotel revenue toward the end of the year. However, the proposed Oct. 1 launch and the scheme’s preliminary benefits remain subject to the Finance Ministry completing its registration and operating systems. Continued … 

Chao Phraya express boat fares to rise by 1 baht from today

Fares for all passengers on Chao Phraya express boat services will be raised by 1 baht from today due to an increase in diesel prices.

The company’s managing director, Charoenporn Charoentham, said that diesel prices had risen to 37.59 baht per liter as of Aug 12. The service provides boat services between Pak Kret and Wat Rajsingkorn piers. Continued … 

A Guide to Phang Nga: Beyond James Bond Island, Where Southern Thailand Slows Down

Phuket may already be on your travel radar, but drive just a little farther, and the crowds begin to fade. Welcome to Phang Nga, where towering limestone cliffs rise from emerald waters and jungle-covered landscapes invite you to slow down.

Best known as the home of James Bond Island, this southern Thai province has far more to offer than its silver-screen fame. Paddle through hidden lagoons, wander laid-back fishing villages, discover farms and fisheries championing sustainable local ingredients, and feast on some of southern Thailand’s boldest flavors. Continued … 

Bangkok eighth in global attractive city index

Bangkok has been ranked eighth worldwide in the 2026 Global Tourism City Attractiveness Index, placing the Thai capital ahead of Okinawa and Chicago but immediately behind Rome.

The study, published by Yanolja Research, assessed 261 cities and issued rankings for the top 200. Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second-largest tourist destination, came 27th overall. The index is based on online traveler discussion and sentiment, not visitor arrival numbers, hotel prices or official safety assessments. Continued … 

Bangkok pushes ahead with 1,520 EV bus transition

The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) is preparing for a major operational overhaul, as it transitions to electric buses, with a plan to lease 1,520 electric vehicles (EVs) over seven years under a 14.9-billion-baht contract with Nakhonchai Air Co.

Delivery of the air-conditioned electric fleet will take place in three batches between March and May 2027. The first 500 buses are scheduled for delivery in late March 2027, followed by another 500 in April and the remaining 520 in May. Continued … 

GAC supplies 115 EVs for Grab’s ride-hailing fleet in Thailand

GAC has delivered 115 Aion EVs for use on Grab’s ride-hailing platform in Thailand through two separate partnerships: 100 units under a tie-up with CLVG and ICBC (Thai) Leasing, and 15 units through a collaboration with Siam Taxi Cooperative.

CLVG, a local car rental and mobility solutions provider, has acquired the 100 EVs from GAC and leased them to Grab drivers. ICBC (Thai) Leasing, a subsidiary of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Thai) and part of the broader ICBC Group, is providing the drivers with financing support for the lease. Continued … 

Global EV Sales to Hit 27% of Market in 2026 Despite US Policy Headwinds

Despite US market turbulence from the discontinuation of federal tax credits and supply disruptions caused by on-again, off-again tariffs, electric vehicle adoption continues to grow, according to a new report from BloombergNEF.

BloombergNEF’s annual Electric Vehicle Outlook (EVO) predicts that more than a quarter (27%) of cars sold globally in 2026 will be electric. That is up from 9% five years ago, and more than half (52%) of all passenger vehicles sold worldwide will be electric by 2035. Continued … 

Court fines Israeli man over Koh Samui zoo threat

The Koh Samui Provincial Court has fined an Israeli man 5,000 baht for threatening the life of the owner of Samui Exotic Park, a zoo on the island in Surat Thani. Police had set up a safety checkpoint outside Samui Exotic Park from Aug.15 after learning of the alleged threat. They said they are still seeking another person accused of placing a 500,000-baht bounty on the zoo owner. Continued … 

  • Fire probe in France at Samui park manager mother’s home – Continued … 
  • Israeli restaurant in Phuket refuses to serve Thai customers – Continued … 
  • Koh Tao arrests: Six foreign dive instructors held – Continued … 
  • Foreign woman eventually admits Koh Pha Ngan shop theft – Continued … 

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Saturday’s news-May 9

  • Standardized Thai bank fees/Makeover planned for Mo Chit 2/Anutin says Koh Kood remains Thai
  • THE IRAN WAR: ASEAN eyes oil reserve
  • ECONOMY: Mega-projects that never left drawing board/100,000 sign petition opposing land bridge/Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi an ASEAN hub/New electric two-wheeler production center
  • TOURISM: Crackdown on unruly tourists/Family flees ‘abandoned resort’/Outrigger opens Phi Phi Island resort
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Dangerous arsenic levels in Mekong mainstream/WHAUP Signs Solar Rooftop Project
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

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Standardized Thai bank fees expected by July

The Bank of Thailand is scheduled to introduce standardized banking fees in July this year, seeking to reduce financial costs for individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Central bank Gov. Vitai Ratanakorn said a month-long public consultation period on the standardization of banking fees is scheduled to end tomorrow, to be followed by an official announcement. Continued … 

B3.5-billion makeover planned for Mo Chit 2

The Ministry of Transport has ruled out relocating the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak), popularly known as Mo Chit 2, opting instead for major upgrades and improved links with the capital’s rail network.

The upgrade, expected to cost 3.5 billion baht, would take place between 2027 and 2029, Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat said yesterday while visiting the state-owned bus operator Transport Co. Continued … 

MOU 44 row deepens — Anutin says Koh Kood remains Thai

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has pushed back against what he described as false claims circulating on social media, insisting that Koh Kood remains part of Thailand following the government’s decision to cancel MOU 44.

Anutin said he has directly informed the Cambodian leader that Thailand had formally decided to cancel the 2001 memorandum of understanding, commonly known as MOU 44, concerning overlapping maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand. Continued … 

ASEAN eyes oil reserve, shared grid as counters to Mideast war cost squeeze

Southeast Asian nations hit by soaring fuel and food prices caused by the Middle East war are weighing solutions that include setting up a regional oil reserve, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said yesterday.

Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) called for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, while also debating a series of ambitious projects aimed at stemming the effects of the next global crisis. Continued … 

Five Thai mega-projects that never left the drawing board

Large-scale investment projects, or “mega-projects”, have been proposed by almost every Thai government. These projects are often promoted as key economic drivers and tend to attract attention from both domestic and foreign investors.

Governments have frequently used such projects as selling points during international roadshows, from the Yingluck administration’s 2-trillion-baht infrastructure investment plan, to the Prayut government’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), and the Srettha administration’s land bridge project. Continued … 

Over 100,000 sign petition opposing land bridge project

An online petition launched by environmental group EnLAW has gathered over 100,000 signatures in three days, signaling widespread opposition to the government’s proposed land bridge megaproject.

The EnLAW Foundation, a prominent non-governmental organization (NGO) in Thailand dedicated to environmental justice, opened the petition website, stop-sec.com, for the public to register opposition to the land bridge project and the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) bill. Continued … 

Senate pushes for turning Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi into single ASEAN hub

A Senate committee proposed that the government develop Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi into a single ASEAN economic, tourism, and transportation hub rather than letting them move along separately as has been the case so far.

Sen. Chavapon Watthanavekin, vice chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, said his committee is currenting visiting Phang Nga and Phuket, with the trip having started yesterday and ending tomorrow, to gather information for recommendation to the Senate and government, with the main goal being to propel the three Andaman coastal provinces into a single hub. Continued … 

Chinese electric two-wheeler opens new Thai production center

Luyuan Group Holding has joined a fledgling move by Chinese two-wheeler makers setting up factories abroad, with its Thursday announcement of plans for a new facility in Thailand. It joins peers like Yadea  and TAILG, which have also recently set up similar new facilities in Southeast Asia to tap local markets for electric bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles.

Several factors are driving the trend, led by intense competition in China where all of these companies still derive nearly all of their sales. Another factor is the big potential in Southeast Asia for these two-wheeled vehicles, which are hugely popular as the most affordable mobility option over pricier cars. Continued … 

Interior Ministry orders crackdown on unruly tourists

The Interior Ministry has ordered provincial authorities nationwide to take firm action against unruly foreign tourists, warning that those who break the law, intimidate Thai citizens, or behave inappropriately could have their visas revoked and be deported immediately.

Arsit Sampantharat, permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry, said yesterday that inappropriate behavior by tourists in various provinces had affected Thailand’s tourism image and caused concern among residents in several areas. Continued … 

Family flees ‘abandoned resort’ booked online

A Thai woman has issued a stark warning to holidaymakers after a family seaside trip turned into what she described as the “most harrowing experience” of her life, when the resort she booked online in Trat province turned out to be abandoned.

According to an online post, the woman had planned a beach holiday for her family and young child, specifically seeking accommodation with direct sea access. As most properties in the area were fully booked at the intended time of travel, only one option remained available on a well-known hotel booking application. Continued … 

Outrigger opens Phi Phi Island resort in Thailand National Park

Outrigger Hospitality Group has opened Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort on Phi Phi Island, adding a fourth property to its Thailand portfolio alongside existing locations in Koh Samui, Khao Lak, and Phuket. The 63-suite and villa resort sits within Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and is accessible only by boat.

The property is set on a white-sand beach fronting the Andaman Sea, surrounded by limestone cliffs. All suites and villas are guided by “Nit Thra,” a Thai concept centered on rest, incorporating handcrafted furnishings, organic textiles, and woven motifs drawn from local craft traditions. Continued … 

Dangerous arsenic levels detected in Thailand’s Mekong mainstream for first time

Thai authorities have found what they described as dangerous levels of arsenic contamination in sediment from the Mekong River and three of its tributaries in the northern provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

Heavy metal pollution has been reported from key tributaries of the Mekong for more than a year now, but the tests conducted in March by Thailand’s Pollution Control Department mark the first time that arsenic contamination has been detected on the mainstream of the Mekong, a vital transboundary river that supports thousands of plant and wildlife species and the livelihoods of millions of people. Continued … 

WHAUP Signs 16.64MW Solar Rooftop Project

WHAUP continues to strengthen its position as a renewable energy leader by securing a major deal with Yida New Material for the installation of a 16.64-megawatt solar rooftop project. The project is expected to help the customer reduce electricity costs by more than B1.22 billion over the 20-year contract period and cut carbon emissions by over 206,491 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The initiative will also enhance energy-management efficiency and operational standards through AI technologies and real-time monitoring via WHAUP’s Unified Operations Center (UOC), strengthening the customer’s competitiveness and energy confidence amid increasingly volatile energy markets. Continued … 

Vilhelm Academy: Western qualifications for Hua Hin-based students

Vilhelm International Academy launched in March 2026 and has is campus at “The Hub” in Hin Lek Fai, less than 10 minutes from the center of town. They provide mentor-led academic supervision for students studying through accredited online school programs, whether independently enrolled or through integrated programs offered at Vilhelm. This means that students follow a fixed timetable, complete coursework under supervision, and receive ongoing progress monitoring.  They can do this whist studying for their GCSE’s, A-Levels, NCAA approved US courses, or any other online school they choose to use.

Unlike more traditional options, at the academy children can learn at their own pace, not being forced forward before they are ready and also not being held back by the rest of the class. When they are ready to move on they do so. By coming to the academy each day, they are able to complement their studies with activities that develop leadership skills, community service (such as the recent helmet initiative), complemented by daily sports and physical activity to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

You can visit the website for more details, or you can book an appointment to meet with the academy co-ordinator to discuss what you are looking for and explain what they can offer. There is a completely free five-day trial period that can be taken advantage of by anyone interested in seeing if the academy is the right fit for them.

Website; Email: info@vilhelminternationalacademy.com; Phone: +66 065 991 5500; Facebook; Map location.

Powerful El Niño set to reshape global weather in 2026

Weeks after the Pacific Ocean engine that helps drive the world’s weather shifted into neutral, meteorologists and scientists are now laser-focused on the developing signals of its warm phase: El Niño. It’s what the global forecast models are making of the early signals that is drawing attention. Continued … 

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Monday’s news-March 9

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  • Thai women leaders honored/Government Warns of Summer Drowning Risk/Raid Seizes 120,000 Gecko Carcasses
  • THE IRAN WAR: Oil jumps above $100/10 vessels attacked in Hormuz Strait/Thai tourism faces severe volatility/May steer wealth to Thai luxury homes/Thailand advises all 77,000 nationals to evacuate/Commerce Ministry Reports Minimal Impact/Outlook for Thai vehicle exports/Fertilizer prices rise/Fuel price surge threatens Trat tourism/Iran’s new Supreme Leader named
  • ECONOMY: Thailand faces fiscal strain/Consumer confidence biggest threat to property market/Strategy to Protect Thai Exports/Reducing Poverty in Northern Thailand
  • TOURISM: B40-billion revenue collapse/Early trip planning urged/Songkran 2026 travel demand rises/What Pattaya is really about/Hostel association targets reform/Indonesia bans elephant riding
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Kui Buri – Thailand’s Hidden Eden/One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations/Lingering In Chiang Mai
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Phetchaburi marine farm’s sustainable legacy/Climate pressure spurs energy revamp
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Ten Thai women leaders honored at ‘Women of Power’ event

Ten prominent Thai women from across business, the arts, sport, and social advocacy were placed in the spotlight at the “BPWT… Women of Power” event, where they shared personal lessons on resilience, leadership, and success in a rapidly changing world.

The event, organized by the Business and Professional Women’s Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen (BPWT), was held to celebrate women whose achievements and life experiences have inspired others across generations. The speakers reflected on overcoming adversity, building confidence, leading with integrity, and creating opportunities from crisis. Continued … 

Government Warns of Summer Drowning Risk, 10,000 deaths in 10 years

The government has warned the public to take extra precautions around water during the summer months, as nearly 10,000 people have drowned during the season over the past decade. Officials say the period from March to May consistently sees a rise in water-related fatalities across the country.

Airin Phanrit, deputy government spokeswoman, said on Saturday that statistics from 2016 to 2025 recorded an average of 964 drowning deaths each year. Data showed that the age group most affected was those aged 45–59, who accounted for 27.9% of fatalities. Continued … 

Raid Seizes 120,000 Gecko Carcasses

Authorities from Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) raided a warehouse in Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani, seizing more than 120,000 dried gecko carcasses and nearly 30 tons of protected timber allegedly prepared for export to China.

The operation was carried out on riday following an investigation into a suspected wildlife and illegal timber trafficking network. Officers also arrested two suspects linked to the warehouse. Continued … 

Oil jumps above $100

Global oil prices surged sharply in early-week trading after tensions from the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated, stoking market fears of tighter oil supplies and risks to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.

In Monday morning trading, Brent crude jumped by as much as $18.35, or about 19.8%, to $111.04 a barrel — its highest level since July 2022 — before easing back to $107.07 a barrel, up $14.38 or 15.5%. Continued … 

10 vessels attacked in Hormuz Strait

About 10 vessels in or near the Strait of Hormuz have come under attack since Iran blocked the strategic waterway in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes, data analysis groups report. The attacks throughout the week following the outbreak of war on Feb. 28 almost completely halted traffic through the strait, a crucial route for oil and other goods.

Britain’s maritime security agency UKMTO has issued around 10 alerts for attacks, as well as warnings of suspicious activity, but has released few details on the vessels involved. Continued … 

Thai tourism faces severe volatility as Middle East conflict hits long-haul travel

Chai Arunanondchai, president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), said that after one week of fighting in the Middle East, Thailand’s tourism sector had been directly affected and was facing severe volatility, both in terms of travel costs and tourist numbers.

The conflict in the Middle East has had a major impact on airlines, particularly flights from Europe that require transit stops and plane changes in several cities, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, and Doha in Qatar, which serve as aviation hubs. Airfares on long-haul routes, especially Europe-bound services, have risen by almost 100%. Continued …

Middle East war may steer wealth to Thai luxury homes

The conflict in the Middle East is shaking the global economy, but it may also create an opportunity for Thailand’s property sector to emerge as a new destination for wealthy buyers shifting away from Dubai and into the ultra-luxury residential market.

Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the Thai Condominium Assn., said the conflict in the Middle East remains difficult to predict and is already sending shockwaves through money and capital markets worldwide, including Thailand. Businesses therefore need to respond cautiously in terms of investment, liquidity management, and contingency planning. Continued … 

Thailand advises all 77,000 nationals in the Middle East to evacuate

Thailand has advised all its nationals in the Middle East to leave high-risk areas immediately, as fighting across the region intensifies. The warning follows eight consecutive days of attacks involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

However, the confrontation has already expanded beyond those three countries. Missile and drone exchanges now involve multiple states across the region. Consequently, Thai authorities describe the situation as violent, tense, and uncertain. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the advisory yesterday. Continued … 

Thailand’s Commerce Ministry Reports Minimal Impact from Middle East Unrest

The Ministry of Commerce has stated that the ongoing unrest in the Middle East is expected to have limited direct effects on Thailand, as the country’s trade share with the countries involved in the conflict remains relatively small. The assessment followed a recent meeting led by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun to review potential economic consequences.

In 2025, Thailand exported goods to the Middle East worth about 12.48 billion US dollars, accounting for 3.7% of the country’s total exports. Authorities reported no clear signs of canceled orders or delayed purchase orders so far. Continued … 

Conflict clouds outlook for Thai vehicle exports

The auto industry could record sluggish car exports this year following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which also raises inflation concerns if the conflict is prolonged, says Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club.

The first direct impact would be reduced car exports to the Middle East, as shipping is disrupted in the Strait of Hormuz, he said. “Changing transport routes will result in more expensive cars and longer delivery times,” Surapong said. Continued … 

Fertilizer prices rise amid Middle East tensions

A survey in Khon Kaen on Friday has found the retail price of urea fertilizer to have increased by about 50 baht per sack as stocks at several distributors become depleted ahead of planting season.

At a major fertilizer and seed distribution center in Muang district, managers reported that several factories had suspended trading due to shortages of raw materials and rising import costs, said Teerakorn Wainiyom, sales and marketing manager at a fertilizer retailer. Continued … 

Fuel price surge threatens Trat tourism industry

Concern over rising fuel prices is growing among tourism operators in Trat province, who are urging the government to stabilize prices before they can no longer bear the burden.

“A mere one-baht (per liter) increase in fuel prices immediately adds a huge cost burden,” said Atthaphon Klinthub, executive of Boonsiri High-Speed Ferries, a major operator of services between Koh Kood and Koh Mak. Continued … 

Mojtaba Khamenei named as Iran’s new Supreme Leader following death of father

Iran has formally nominated Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, as the nation’s supreme leader. The move signals that the regime’s hardline factions intend to maintain an iron grip on power despite a week of devastating conflict with Israel and the United States.

A mid-ranking cleric with formidable influence over Iran’s security apparatus and vast business interests, Mojtaba has long been considered the frontrunner to succeed his father. Continued … 

Thailand faces fiscal strain as deficit rises and Middle East war weighs on economy

Thailand’s fiscal position is once again at a critical turning point in 2026, as pressure from several directions is converging. These include a persistently rising budget deficit burden, a global economy facing uncertainty from geopolitical tensions, particularly the war in the Middle East, as well as Thailand’s own structural economic challenges, with growth continuing to fall short of its potential.

These factors mean that the incoming government will face fiscal challenges that are more complex and more severe than at many points in the past. In recent years, warning signs from credit rating agencies have become increasingly clear. Continued … 

Consumer confidence, not costs, now poses biggest threat to Thai property market

Weakening consumer confidence, rather than rising costs alone, has become the biggest threat to Thailand’s property market, as global uncertainty prompts buyers to delay major purchases, according to Pornnarit Chuanchaisit, president of the Thai Real Estate Assn.

Pornnarit said the conflict in the Middle East, although far from Thailand geographically, was having a significant indirect effect on the Thai economy. The first impact has come through higher oil prices, which are pushing up costs across the economy, from transport to construction materials. Continued … 

Commerce Ministry Launches Strategy to Protect Thai Exports

The Commerce Ministry has launched a “Resilience” strategy aimed at protecting the country’s export sector from global risks, including geopolitical conflicts and trade polarization. The policy seeks to strengthen Thailand’s ability to maintain export growth while navigating an increasingly uncertain global trading environment.

Officials say the plan focuses on diversification, trade agreements, and adapting to emerging economic trends.The strategy encourages exporters to expand into new markets such as the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, reducing reliance on a limited number of major trading partners. It also prioritises accelerating Free Trade Agreement negotiations with key partners including the European Union and the United Arab Emirates. Continued … 

From Opium to Opportunity: Reducing Poverty in Northern Thailand

During the 20th century, the Golden Triangle, the region where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet, became infamous for its opium production. Northern Thailand’s farmers relied heavily on the opium poppy as the foundation of their livelihoods. Unfortunately, this dependence on opium also entrenched poverty in these rural communities.

To address this, the Thai government has worked to reduce poverty in the region and promote alternative livelihoods through agriculture, coffee cultivation, and tourism. The Royal Project Foundation, launched as the Royal Hill Tribe Assistance Project in 1969, has fundamentally transformed the way of life for the hill tribes and villages. Continued … 

Thai tourism faces B40-billion revenue collapse

Thailand could lose more than 40 billion baht in tourism revenue in the worst-case scenario, assuming the Middle East airspace closure lasts for eight weeks, says the Tourism and Sports Ministry.

Natthriya Thaweevong, tourism and sports permanent secretary, said travelers from the Middle East and Europe have been greatly hampered by the airspace closure, as many flights are unable to operate. Continued … 

Early trip planning urged as Mideast war sends airfares soaring

Passengers intending to travel between Asia and Europe will need to plan their trips well in advance to secure reasonable ticket prices, as the Middle East conflict has driven significant demand for a limited number of direct flights, says the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).

Based on travel trend monitoring, flight operation disruptions are expected to ease and sky-high ticket prices to fall from late March, the CAAT said. For now, though, most airlines based in the Middle East are unable to resume normal operations, except for some flights from Oman. Continued … 

Songkran 2026 travel demand rises as Pattaya leads domestic destinations

Following the Songkran festival in 2025, which generated more than B28.723 billion in nationwide economic circulation, up 17% from the previous year, the festival’s continued development into a global celebration is expected to further boost tourism spending in 2026, driven by the expansion of large-scale events and rising tourist participation.

The latest data from Traveloka shows that the top 10 most popular domestic destinations during Songkran are Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Phuket, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, Bangkok, Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, and Koh Samet. Continued … 

What Pattaya is really about, as foreign tourists share their good and bad experiences

For decades, Pattaya has been one of Thailand’s most talked-about tourist destinations. Known for its beaches, nightlife, and lively streets, the coastal city attracts millions of visitors each year. But as discussions on travel forums and social media show, opinions about Pattaya can vary dramatically depending on personal experiences.

Some foreign visitors voice concerns about safety and infrastructure. Online discussions occasionally highlight road accidents involving tour buses or incidents involving tourists in nightlife areas such as Walking Street Pattaya. Continued … 

Hostel association targets reform and growth

The Hostel and Small Accommodation Assn. (Thailand) has urged the new government to continue pushing for a new accommodation act for small hotels, but strongly opposes allowing condo units to be registered as legal lodging.

Naree Suneta, president of the association, said the existing law is impractical for small operators, and the association wants a new regulation dedicated to different accommodation scales, such as rules for 1-20 rooms, 21-50 rooms, and more than 50 rooms, which is the threshold for regulation under the current Hotel Act. Continued … 

Indonesia bans elephant riding

Ethical tourism has been gaining traction for years. One of the attractions that has consistently made headlines for all the wrong reasons is elephant rides. But now, elephants are getting a much-deserved reprieve with the banning of riding these massive mammals.

For decades, travelers to Indonesia could ride elephants as part of their experience in the country. What seemed like a fun attraction was actually quite stressful and harmful to the elephants. But because of the tourism revenue it generated, a blind eye was often turned to the plight of the elephants, who were left to suffer. Continued …

Kui Buri – Thailand’s Hidden Eden

This is the story of a Garden of Eden, hidden deep within the jungles of Southeast Asia. A national park that’s home to an almost unimaginable variety of animals. Not only noteworthy for its countless species, Kui Buri National Park in southwestern Thailand is also known for its abundance of large animals, like Asian elephants and wild bovines. The scarce gaur lives here, the world’s largest bovine species, and it is also home to the smaller, ruddy banteng. Trailer video … 

Breathtaking Region Between Phuket And Krabi One Of The World’s Most Welcoming Destinations

Nestled along a stunning stretch of Thailand’s Andaman Coast between Phuket and Krabi, Phang Nga province was recognized in the 2026 Booking.com Traveller Review Awards as one of the world’s most welcoming destinations, based on guest reviews. One could argue that this distinction applies to much of Thailand — long nicknamed the “Land of Smiles” – yet in Phang Nga, the hospitality often feels particularly authentic and unforced.

Phang Nga’s appeal goes beyond its scenery. The province is home to charming homestays, standout restaurants – several recognized in the Michelin Guide – and informative excursions into a wilderness teeming with waterfalls and wildlife, led by knowledgeable local guides eager to share their culture along with the landscape. Continued … 

Lingering In Chiang Mai: Temples, Tea, And Tranquillity In Northern Thailand

Chiang Mai enchants with its intricate temple architecture, lush jungles threaded with waterfalls, a culinary scene rich in northern flavors, and its distinctive Lanna heritage. Yet, beyond its beauty and cultural depth, it offers something rarer — quiet moments away from the party crowds.

It is a destination suited equally to solo travelers seeking serenity and families in search of meaningful time together. I chose the latter — and the experience felt all the richer for it. Continued … 

Phetchaburi marine farm showcases Queen Mother’s sustainable legacy

Aware of the need for rural communities to have more food sources for self-reliance, the late Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, initiated the establishment of model farms in various parts of Thailand to teach local villagers how to become self-sufficient in their food supply.

In Phetchaburi, a model marine farm was set up at Her Majesty’s initiative as a learning center where farmers can exchange knowledge on fishery development and fishing practices suited to local environmental conditions. Continued … 

Climate pressure spurs Thailand’s energy revamp

Thailand’s clean power supply and energy trade are poised for changes under the draft Power Development Plan (PDP), which will shape the country’s electricity landscape from 2026 to 2050. The new PDP seeks to accelerate renewable energy projects and introduce nuclear power into the mix, according to energy officials and executives.

These measures are seen as vital to Thailand’s pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions, a commitment reaffirmed at the UN climate summit in Brazil in November 2025. If approved later this year, the 2026 PDP will serve as a roadmap toward Thailand’s net-zero target for 2050, balancing emissions with carbon absorption. Continued …

Venezuela topped 2025 global inflation table at 475%

Inflation in Venezuela soared to 475% in 2025, the highest in the world, driven by a tightening of US sanctions in the lead-up to the ouster of leader Nicolas Maduro. Full-year inflation far exceeded the International Monetary Fund’s forecast of 270%, figures released by the central bank showed on Friday. Continued … 

Japan mulls abolishing face-to-face immigration checks amid tourism surge

The Japanese government is moving to abolish the need for most foreign tourists to meet face-to-face with immigration officers to enter the country, as it seeks to streamline entry procedures amid the inbound tourism surge. The Immigration Services Agency said it would instead rely on visitor information collected through an online pre-travel screening system called Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or JESTA, set to launch in fiscal 2028. Continued … 

Indonesia to restrict social media access for children under 16

Indonesia will restrict access to social media platforms for children under 16, its communications and digital ministry said on Friday, making it the latest country to install online guardrails to reduce the risks of addiction and cyberbullying. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

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

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
baht, bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Jan 2

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New minimum wage 352 baht in PKK/Driver dies in Prachuap Khiri Khan/Electricity prices in line for reduction/Be on alert for six diseases/Deadly New Year Roads/Coach Crash in Surat Thani/Crackdown on Drink Driving/Freezing north and stormy south/Elephant collects ‘tax’/Dairy products to become cheaper/2024 public health highlights/Thai Police Solve 93% of Cases/2025 Bangkok countdown/ECONOMY: Trends set to shape Thailand/Global threats to economy/Trump’s policies could inflict Bt160-billion loss/Key economic risks in 2025/Business mergers hit record/Baht, oil prices to face volatility/2024 – Thai film industry/Thailand Air Conditioner Market/Luxury Car Sales Plummet/Crypto markets set for strong 2025/TOURISM: Tourism earns 1.66 trillion baht/10 Emerging Travel Trends/Foreigners targeted for violence in Pattaya/Korat’s UNESCO sites/More than 1 million Thais visited Japan/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Is Bangkok the best place to live?Top 10 must-visit destinations/A Thailand Travel Story/Phang Nga Bay Area/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s cleanest and most polluted beaches/Honey collector laments Chiang Mai’s deforestation/Sharge aims to expand/’Food Security’ and global population growth/2024 China’s hottest year/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

New minimum wages announced, 352 baht in PKK

The Royal Gazette website on Tuesday published an announcement by the Tripartite National Wage Committee regarding the new minimum wage rates which came into effect yesterday.

The committee, chaired by the Labor Ministry permanent secretary, has 15 members, with three five-member teams representing the government, employers and employees. Continued …

Driver dies as emergency vehicle overturns in Prachuap Khiri Khan

An emergency response vehicle from Pak Phraek subdistrict overturned after losing control on a curve, resulting in the death of the driver. The incident occurred early yesterday morning following New Year’s Eve celebrations.

The accident took place around 5am on a road in Bang Saphan Noi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, near kilometer marker 9, in front of Bhan Phata Reung Ram Temple. Continued …

Electricity prices in line for reduction this year

Whether Thailand’s electricity prices rise or fall after April 2025 needs to be closely watched, following the state decision to trim the power tariff to 4.15 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit), down from 4.18 baht per unit in 2024.

The new power tariff, which is used to calculate power bills, is applicable from January to April 2025. Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga said he was informed of the slight cut after talks between the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and state agencies. Continued …

Public urged to be on alert for six diseases during New Year break

The government has urged the public to be on alert and employ preventive measures against six diseases that tend to spread during the New Year break.

“New Year festival is a time when many people travel and gather, especially at tourist destinations. This increases the likelihood of contracting these diseases,” deputy government spokesperson Sasikarn Watthanachan said today. Continued …

Deadly New Year Roads: 215 Deaths in Five Days

Thailand’s roads have proven deadly once again during the New Year holiday season, with 215 lives lost just five days into the “10 Dangerous Days” road safety campaign, officials revealed today.

The statistics were announced by Somsak Thepsuthin, minister of public health and head of the New Year Road Safety Command Center, during a press briefing at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. From Dec. 27 to 31, there were 1,398 road accidents, resulting in 1,354 injuries and 215 fatalities. Continued …

Coach Crash in Surat Thani Leaves Five Dead and Many Injured

A coach crash late last night on Route 41 in Surat Thani province has left five dead and dozens injured. The incident occurred near the Pa We intersection in Chaiya district, where the coach rolled onto its side and crashed into a tree.

The vehicle, a green and white Hino air-conditioned coach with license plate from Nakhon Pathom, was carrying approximately 38 passengers, most of whom were elderly tourists returning from a trip to Betong, Yala province. The group had rented the coach for a chartered journey and was en route to Samut Sakhon. Continued …

Crackdown on Drink Driving

As the New Year celebrations are underway, courts in Thailand have taken a firm stance on driving offenses. On Dec. 30, the fourth day of the “10 Dangerous Days” campaign, 2,032 cases were sent to probation processes.

The majority of these, 1,997 cases, were related to drink driving, while 35 cases involved driving under drug influence. From Dec. 27-30, a total of 3,795 cases have been placed under probation. Of these, 96.5% involved drink driving incidents. Continued …

Thailand faces freezing north and stormy south weather conditions

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) reports that the country is experiencing varied weather conditions, with freezing temperatures and frost in mountainous areas, while the southern regions face monsoons and high sea waves exceeding 2 meters.

The forecast for the next 24 hours indicates that the high-pressure system or moderate cold air mass covering upper Thailand and the upper southern region is weakening, leading to a 1 to 2°C rise in temperatures and morning fog in these areas. Continued …

Elephant collects ‘tax’ from passing trucks in Chachoengsao

A wild elephant turned into an extortionist on Highway No. 3076 in Chachoengsao province yesterday, targeting passing trucks carrying freshly cut sugarcane and tapioca. As the giant animal was blocking half of the road, drivers had no choice but to come to a halt and let it pick off its favorite foods from the truck bed on the highway that runs through Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary. Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area at the western extremities of the Cardamom Mountains in Chachoengsao province. (The Nation)

Dairy products from Australia, New Zealand to become cheaper

The zero tariff on dairy products from Australia and New Zealand took full effect yesterday after a 20-year-long transitional period, with the Cooperative Promotion Department (CPD) warning local dairy farmers and cooperatives to prepare for the potential impact.

CPD Director-general Visit Srisuwan said the removal of tariffs could affect local dairy farmers, and urged them and their cooperatives to enhance milk quality and reduce production costs. He explained that such improvements were necessary for farmers to remain competitive against the expected surge of imported milk products from both countries, following the full implementation of the free trade agreement (FTA) contracts. Continued …

10 Key public health highlights of 2024

In 2024, the public health sector saw many significant developments that can be considered “stories of the year.” We have compiled a list of the top 10 notable issues to close out the year.

Universal “30-Baht Healthcare Anywhere” Policy

The government launched an upgraded universal coverage scheme (UCS), allowing Thais to access healthcare services nationwide using only their ID cards. The policy, which began as a pilot in four provinces in January, was fully implemented nationwide yesterday. This milestone significantly enhances patient accessibility, enabling them to receive care beyond their designated hospitals. Continued … 

Thai Police Solve 93% of More Than 500,000 Cases in 2024

The Royal Thai Police achieved a 93% success rate in solving criminal cases this year, with 479,516 cases resolved out of more than 500,000 reported between Jan. 1-Dec. 26, according to National Police Chief Kitirat Phanphet. The announcement emphasizes continued strict enforcement across all crime dimensions, aligning with government and Royal Thai Police policies.

In total, more than 500,000 cases were processed, of which 479,516 were successfully solved, representing a success rate of 93%, broken down as follows: Continued …

Lisa of Blackpink ushers in 2025 at Bangkok countdown

K-pop sensation Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal headlined the mini concert in the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025” event at IconSiam, Bangkok’s premier shopping center by the Chao Phraya River on Tuesday night as 2024 gave way to 2025. Lisa’s performance was broadcast to a billboard in Times Square, New York, and was covered by CNN, BBC, and ABC News to worldwide audiences.

The global star from the Blackpink girl group rocked her fans in a 30-minute show. Lisa performed all her hit singles, including “Lalisa”, “Money”, “New Woman”, “Rockstar” and “Moonlit Floor” before counting down to the New Year together with her fans in Thailand and around the world. Continued …

Trends set to shape Thailand in 2025

Several significant trends are set to shape the nation’s economic, technological and cultural landscape this year. These developments will unfold alongside significant challenges, including slow economic growth, rising household debt, political instability, climate change, environmental pressures, an aging population leading to labor shortages, and cybersecurity threats.

The emerging trends cover areas such as economic initiatives and policies, technological advancements, tourism and hospitality, as well as infrastructure and real estate. Continued …

Thailand’s planning agency warns of global threats to economy in 2025

Thailand’s public and private sectors should monitor geopolitical conflicts closely amid the potential for serious economic impacts this year, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) warned yesterday.

Danucha Pichayanan, NESDC secretary-general, cited the Middle East conflict after Syria’s Bashar al-Assad was ousted by rebel forces in December. He anticipates internal restructuring in Syria will lead to efforts toward peace with Israel, potentially easing the conflict and smoothing volatility in the global fuel market. Continued …

Trump’s policies could inflict Bt160-billion loss on Thailand

The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) advised Thailand to maintain its neutral stance in global trade, noting that U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s trade policies could trigger a 160-billion-baht loss for the Thai economy.

“The U.S. political transition is a good opportunity for Thailand to become a conflict-free country, set up a clear business flow and launch measures to attract investment in Thailand,” said chamber President Sanan Angubolkul. Continued …

Analyst highlights key economic risks in 2025

Trump 2.0’s economic policy is anticipated to be the primary risk to the Thai economy in 2025, says an independent academic.

Thailand faces five significant challenges this year that could hinder its economic growth. These include household debt, policies on investment and interest rates, Trumponomics 2.0, China’s economic slowdown and geopolitical tensions. Continued …

Business mergers in Thailand hit record high in 2024

Business mergers in Thailand last year were worth 590 billion baht, marking a significant surge from 200 billion-plus in 2023, the Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) reported yesterday.

The transport and logistics sector accounted for the highest merger value at 180 billion baht, followed by the medical sector (120 billion baht) and the insurance sector (88 billion baht). Continued …

Baht, oil prices expected to face volatility in 2025

The baht and oil prices could face volatility due to several factors next year, according to a report by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

The baht is expected to move between 34.5 and 35.5 to the U.S. dollar next year, similar to an average of 35.4 baht this year. The Thai currency is expected to face high volatility driven by U.S. economic policies that would affect the Federal Reserve’s monetary policies to curb inflation. Continued …

2024 – A year to remember for the Thai film industry

Over 40 new Thai films hit the screen in 2024. If 2023 was considered a golden year for the Thai film industry, 2024 can be seen as even more glittering, despite fewer films being produced.

The smaller number of releases has been offset by a focus on quality. Studios have embraced diverse narratives and invested in genres beyond traditional comedies and horror films. Notable examples include “Uranus 2324” and “Taklee Genesis”, rare sci-fi films in the Thai cinema landscape. Continued …

Thailand Air Conditioner Market to Be Worth Over US$ 2,937.83 Million By 2033

According to the latest study from Astute Analytica, the Thailand air conditioner market is projected to hit a market valuation of US$ 2,937.83 million by 2033, from US$ 1,721.28 million in 2024, at a CAGR of 6.12% during the forecast period 2025–2033.

In recent years, Thailand’s air conditioner market has witnessed remarkable growth fueled by a tropical climate that encourages sustained demand for cooling solutions across urban and suburban regions. Consumers increasingly value energy efficiency, evident in how 72% of Thai households now prioritize it when evaluating their next purchase. Continued …

Luxury Car Sales Plummet

Thailand’s luxury automotive market is forecasted to experience a notable decline in sales, with predictions that figures will reach just 30,000 vehicles by the end of 2024. This represents a sharp drop from the 40,000 sold in 2023, as the luxury car segment grapples with the broader economic downturn and escalating household debt issues.

Wearnes Automotive Thailand, known for distributing the British sports car brand Lotus Cars, underscores the challenges faced by this market. Despite higher purchasing power typical among luxury car buyers, the sluggish economic growth — recorded at a mere 1.5% in the first quarter of 2024 — coupled with stringent loan-approval processes by banks wary of bad debts, have created hurdles in car sales. Continued …

Crypto markets set for strong 2025 following record-breaking 2024

Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency market have enjoyed an exceptional 2024, with analysts forecasting continued growth into 2025. Bitcoin surged from $40,000 to $107,000, marking a 160% increase driven by several key developments in the digital asset space.

According to Woramet Chansen, investment adviser at Merkle Capital, multiple factors contributed to this performance. The approval of Bitcoin spot ETFs emerged as a crucial catalyst, attracting institutional investors and generating $36 billion in inflows. This was complemented by the authorization of Bitcoin options ETFs and Ethereum spot ETFs, significantly broadening market accessibility. Continued …

Thailand tourism earns 1.66 trillion baht from 35 million visitors

Thailand welcomed over 35 million travelers in 2024, with visitors contributing more than 1.6 trillion baht (US$46.8 billion) to the economy, reported the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced that from Jan. 1 to Dec. 29, a total of 35.32 million people visited the country, spending 1.66 trillion baht (US$48.5 billion).

Chinese tourists led the influx with 6.7 million arrivals, followed by Malaysians with 4.93 million, Indians with 2.12 million, South Koreans with 1.86 million, and Russians with 1.72 million. Domestically, Thais embarked on 197.53 million trips within the nation, spending 952.77 billion baht (US$27.8 billion). Continued …

10 Emerging Travel Trends for the New Generation in 2025

What will the travel behaviors of the new generation look like in 2025? The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has compiled 10 key trends to showcase.

TikTok Trailblazing

Millennials and Gen Z travelers are increasingly using the TikTok app to find real-time insights and recommendations while planning their trips. They prioritize local experiences over visiting traditional popular tourist spots. Continued …

Why foreigners are being more targeted for violence in Pattaya

In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in incidents of violence targeting foreigners in Pattaya. This trend has raised concerns about safety for both tourists and expatriates in the city, which is known for its vibrant nightlife, tourism, and expat communities.

Several factors may contribute to why foreigners are increasingly becoming victims of violence in this popular Thai destination. Pattaya, being a major tourist hub, attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year. Tourists are often easy targets because they are typically less familiar with the local environment and its potential dangers. Continued …

Korat hopes UNESCO sites will spur visitor numbers

A sluggish economy and disputes over the planned transformation of land in Wang Nam Khieo district led tourism in Nakhon Ratchasima to grow at a slower rate than expected in 2024, according to Jim Thompson Farm.

Tong Butsricha, manager of Jim Thompson Farm, said some domestic tourists had restricted their budgets and delayed their travel plans. A controversy erupted in July 2024 over a proposal to transform some parts of Thap Lan National Park into an agricultural farm. Continued …

More than 1 million Thais visited Japan in 2024

Thailand has been ranked sixth of the top 10 foreign arrivals in Japan, with over 1 million Thai travelers visiting the country in the first 11 months of 2024, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).

As many as 1,002,200 Thai travelers visited Japan from January to November, up 15.2% year on year. However, the number dropped by 13.2% compared to 2019 and the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

Is Bangkok the best place to live in Thailand?

Bangkok, the bustling capital of Thailand, is often the first place that comes to mind when considering the best place to live in the country. With its vibrant culture, modern amenities, and dynamic lifestyle, Bangkok offers something for everyone. However, whether it’s the best place to live depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Bangkok is Thailand’s hub for transportation, education, healthcare, and commerce. The city boasts world-class hospitals, international schools, and a wide array of job opportunities in diverse industries. The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems make it easier to navigate this sprawling metropolis. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Top 10 must-visit destinations in Thailand for 2025

Thailand is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, offering a blend of stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into the country’s history, these 10 places should be on your travel bucket list for 2025.

Hua Hin: A Classic Beach Escape

Hua Hin is a beloved beach resort town that provides a mix of relaxation and culture. Located just a few hours from Bangkok, this charming destination is known for its long, sandy beaches, golf courses, and night markets. The town is also home to the beautiful Hua Hin Railway Station, one of the oldest in Thailand, and the iconic Hua Hin Night Market, where you can indulge in delicious seafood and local delicacies. Continued …

An Elephant Greeting and Other Magical Tales: A Thailand Travel Story

I have this theory that Thailand is blessed with a secret energy: wherever you go, it seems to unlock a slice of your spirit you never knew existed. From the moment I stepped into that lush jungle clearing and spotted two elephants cooling off in the river, I knew I was in for something magical.

My guide handed me a bright pink top and, within minutes, I was knee-deep in muddy water, laughing at the playful sprays from these gentle giants. One of them wrapped its trunk around me in a sort of affectionate hug, and I swear my heart swelled three sizes. Continued …

Phang Nga Bay Area: An Insider’s Slow Travel Guide

Sure, you can come to Phang Nga Bay — an animated movie-like islandscape connecting southern Thailand’s mainland and Phuket Island — to take that one vacation photo you’ve seen everywhere on the internet. There are plenty of scenes to choose from, from the hilltop perspective of Samet Nangshe Viewpoint to the golden-ratio-approved background from Hin Rom Pier. And how could we forget the travel brochure-favorite snapshot where people appear to be leaning or flicking off Ko Tapu or James Bond Island?

Whether you’re a mountain meanderer or beach bum, there’s plenty to experience. What matters here is that you’re open to taking it slow and ready to dive in literally and figuratively whenever the opportunity arises. Continued …

Thailand’s cleanest and most polluted beaches unveiled

The Pollution Control Department has unveiled a list showing the location of the cleanest beaches for swimming, and the most polluted, in Thailand. The “best and worst” list came from a seawater-quality survey at 210 locations along coasts nationwide last year.

The survey found that the seawater at 49% of the locations was of good quality, 43% of moderate quality, 6% of deteriorated quality, and 2% highly deteriorated quality. Continued …

Honey collector laments Chiang Mai’s deforestation

A honey collector from Thailand who posts viral videos of his daring tree-climbing missions to reach bee hives has warned of the damage that mass fruit farming is doing to natural forests in the country’s north.

Pran Tee, an ethnic Karen with Thai nationality, has over 320,000 followers on his Facebook page ‘Pran Tee Chiang Mai’, who are drawn to his traditional methods of harvesting honey from shared community forests near his village two hours outside Chiang Mai. Continued …

Sharge aims to expand EV client base

Sharge Management Co., a provider of charging systems for battery-powered vehicles, is targeting logistics and express delivery operators for new customers in order to rapidly expand its client base.

More electric vehicle (EV) usage in these businesses will help the company reach a goal to serve a total of 10,000 EVs, including freight vehicles, taxis and passenger cars, by 2030, said Peerapatr Sirichantaropart, managing director of Sharge Management. Continued …

‘Food Security’ Operation to address global population growth of 1 billion

The U.S. Census Bureau has revealed that the global population increased by over 71 million in 2024, bringing the total to 8.09 billion as of Jan. 1.

The United Nations projects that by 2050 the global population will rise to 9.7 billion. To meet the growing food demand, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that global food production must increase by approximately 60%. Continued …

2024 China’s hottest year on record

Last year was China’s warmest on record, its weather agency said, as the world experiences a surge in extreme weather fueled by climate change.

China is the leading emitter of the greenhouse gases scientists say are driving global warming, though Beijing has pledged that carbon dioxide emissions will peak by 2030 and be brought to net zero by 2060. Continued …

Witnesses describe ‘war zone’ left in wake of New Orleans attack

Witnesses described terrifying scenes of “insanity” that they likened to being in a “war zone” after yesterday’s early morning vehicle-ramming attack in the U.S. city of New Orleans that killed at least 15 people. Continued …

Milan says no to all outdoor smoking in Italy’s toughest ban

Smokers in Italy’s financial and fashion capital of Milan risk being fined for lighting up on city streets or crowded public areas, after the country’s toughest ban came into effect yesterday. 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
baht, bangkok, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, wildlife tourism

Friday’s news-Nov 8

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It’s the start of tourist season in Thailand, and the international media has taken notice. Today’s news features a long list of “Thailand Experiences”, reflecting the opening of the Thai tourism “high season”, and the increased media coverage of Thailand’s tourism experiences. In fact, Travel & Leisure Magazine has named Thailand its Destination of the Year, with several articles included in today’s report.

An expat’s guide to settling in Hua Hin/Sam Phan Nam Floating Market reopens/British Chamber event/Supercar display at Bluport/Vintage car parade/International Series donates $25,000/Centara Hua Hin takes third place/Bus-Truck Collision in Prachuap Khiri Khan/Stormy weather forecast/Erawan Shrine case crumbles/Courier delivers 6-foot mattress on motorcycle/Baht slumps/Road safety campaign for motorcyclists/Koh Kut torn between two nations/Economy: Thailand’s ‘Multidimensional poverty’/Thai firms wary of US election impact/Worries over increasing Chinese imports/Ultra-luxury houses boom/Chinese EV-makers offer discounts/Tourism: Thailand named 2025 Destination of the Year/To legalize unregistered hotels/Thailand Popular for Indian Honeymooners/Thailand Experience: PKK’s Klong Wan/Lanna-style Loy Krathong celebrations to Bangkok/5 Iconic Dishes You Must Try/24 must try Street Foods/Visit Thailand in the Off-season/Insider’s Guide to Bangkok/Where Locals Love to Go/4 hidden Thai gems/A Week in Phang Nga/Country’s Most Beautiful Landscapes/Bua tong blooms in Mae Hong Son/Elephants in the Wild/10 Best National Parks/Climate Thailand: Hydropower dams into giant ‘batteries’/Thai agencies to collaborate with Germany/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

An expat’s guide to settling in Hua Hin

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Sam Phan Nam Floating Market reopens

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British Chamber event at Monsoon Valley Nov 16

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Supercar display at Bluport Nov 29-30

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Phetchaburi-Hua Hin vintage car parade Dec 20-22

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International Series golf donates $25,000 to Hua Hin’s Bright Dawn Foundation

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Centara Grand Hua Hin takes third place in ‘Top 10 Wedding Hotels in Asia’

Centara Hotels & Resorts announced that three of its properties ranked highly in the Smart Travel Asia 2024 Best in Travel Poll.

The flagship Centara Reserve Samui has been named the #1 Luxury Hotel in Asia, highlighting the property’s dedication to redefining luxury and personalized travel.

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin achieved a third-place ranking in the “Top 10 Wedding Hotels in Asia” category, while Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket secured fifth position in “Top 10 Family Hotels in Asia.” – traveldailymedia.com

Five Injured in Bus-Truck Collision in Pran Buri

A traffic collision involving a tour bus and a Isuzu four-wheeled truck occurred on yesterday afternoon, leaving five people injured. The crash took place at kilometer marker 237+500 in Pran Buri district, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province.

According to the Prachuap Khiri Khan Highway Police Rescue Radio Center, the bus collided with the truck around 13:55. None of the 20, bus passengers sustained any injuries, but the passengers in the truck, carrying banquet supplies, were less fortunate. Continued …

Stormy weather forecast

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for potential severe weather conditions affecting 28 provinces, with the southern region facing heavy to very heavy rainfall that could lead to flash floods and forest runoff. Meanwhile, cooler temperatures are expected in northern Thailand.

In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas, including Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 22 to 24°C to 29 to 33°C, with northeast winds at 15 to 35 kilometers per hour and wave heights of 1 to 2 meters. Continued …

Thai woman walks as Erawan Shrine case crumbles

A Thai court sent shockwaves throughout the capital of Bangkok after clearing Thai woman Wanna Suansan of charges related to the devastating 2015 Erawan Shrine bombing that claimed 20 lives and injured 120 others.

Wanna, a Thai national, was acquitted by Bangkok’s Southern Criminal Court yesterday. The attack, which occurred in the heart of Bangkok, resulted in 20 fatalities and left 120 injured, primarily affecting Chinese tourists visiting the popular spiritual site. Continued …

Chachoengsao courier delivers 6-foot mattress on motorcycle – video

A delivery rider found himself in a humorous predicament when tasked with transporting a 6-foot mattress on his motorcycle. The unexpected delivery, which took place Wednesday, in Chachoengsao province, left the customer so impressed by the courier’s determination that he tipped the rider several hundred baht.

Video 

The delivery took place on Suwinthawong Road, just before the Khlong Luang Pheng Bridge in the city of Chachoengsao. A reporter, noticing a motorcycle carrying a large white object, discovered it was a six-foot mattress. Continued …

Baht slumps after US election

The Thai baht reached a two-month low on Thursday, with projections it might dip below 34.5 to the U.S. dollar shortly. This currency pressure follows predictions that the Federal Reserve will maintain higher interest rates longer than anticipated after Donald Trump clinched victory in the recent U.S. election.

According to the Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), the baht was quoted at 34.34-36 against the dollar, dropping from the prior day’s rate of 34.17. A declining yuan has further weighed down the baht. This trend is mirrored in other currencies like the yen, all suffering due to the dollar’s surge post-election. Continued …

Transport minister plans road safety campaign for motorcyclists

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has announced a plan aimed at promoting road safety, particularly targeting motorcyclists and their passengers who fail to wear crash helmets.

Under the plan, those caught not wearing helmets will be required to undergo several hours of road safety training next year, during which they will review videos highlighting the dangers of not complying with helmet regulations. Continued …

From paradise to political pawn: Koh Kut torn between two nations

Koh Kut still looks like a tropical paradise, but geopolitical tensions are now rocking this otherwise tranquil holiday island.

“Tourists’ confidence is waning in the face of political uproar,” Trat Tourism Association President Wichit Sugasuyanon lamented. “The room occupancy rate has dropped by about 30% already.” Continued … 

Thailand’s ‘Multidimensional poverty’ a worry despite progress

While Thailand has managed to cut the number of people living in poverty by half in just seven years, many Thais still live with substandard living conditions – lacking access to adequate healthcare, education, and sanitation – especially those living in rural areas, according to the 2024 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI).

Compiled by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and Oxford Poverty and Human Development Institute (OPHI), the index seeks to outline the latest global poverty situation through a multidimensional perspective. Continued …

Thai firms wary of US election impact

The business sector is increasingly concerned about Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. election, with analysts expecting the global economy to be affected by increased U.S. protectionism, while interest rates might decline slower than expected.

Kavee Chukitkasem, head of research and content at Pi Securities, advised investors to partially offload high-risk assets in their portfolio as Trump’s extreme policies could lead to a strong reaction from some countries, especially China. Continued …

Worries over increasing Chinese imports as US tariffs loom

A leading infrastructure and investment company predicted a more aggressive influx of Chinese products to Thai markets after Republican candidate Donald Trump was elected as United States’ 47th president on Wednesday.

Trump’s presidency would likely strengthen the U.S. dollar and subsequently increase the policy rate, as well as inflation, in the United States, Vichai Bencharongkul, president of Benchachinda Holding, said on Thursday. Continued …

Ultra-luxury houses boom amid slumping property market

Luxury houses priced at more than 100 million baht per unit have enjoyed over 450 billion baht in sales in the past 10 years, with some 394 new units being supplied to the market since 2015, property consultancy firm Colliers International reported on Wednesday.

While the rest of Thailand’s property market is contracting due to the high rejection rate of housing loans by financial institutions, buyers of ultra-luxury houses often pay in cash and therefore do not have to apply for loans, Collier’s research director Phattarachai Taweewong explained. Continued … 

Chinese EV-makers offer discounts to boost their year-end sales

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are offering new models and up to 100,000 baht discounts in a bid to stimulate sales in the remainder of this year, according to a report on Thursday.

The move coincides with the upcoming automobile exhibition, “Motor Expo 2024”, at Muang Thong Thani in Nonthaburi province from Nov. 29 to Dec. 10. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Travel + Leisure names Thailand the 2025 Destination of the Year

Travel + Leisure has named Thailand as the 2025 Destination of the Year. Known for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic culinary scene, and a seamless blend of tradition with modern innovation, Thailand is a must-visit destination for travelers in the year ahead. This is the 10th year Travel + Leisure editors have selected a Destination of the Year, with previous honorees including Costa Rica, Italy, and Japan.

“We are thrilled to recognize Thailand as our Destination of the Year for 2025,” said Jacqui Gifford, editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure. “Whether visitors are exploring Bangkok’s cutting-edge culinary scene, relaxing on one of the country’s 1,430 islands, or experiencing its renowned hospitality with some of the best luxury hotels in the world, Thailand offers a unique adventure for every type of traveler.” Continued …

Ministry to legalize unregistered hotels

The Tourism and Sports Ministry has vowed to register unregistered hotels through a new draft within one year, aiming to maintain the long-haul tourist market as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is implemented in two years, which requires adhering to strict environmental standards.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said many small operators, particularly illegal lodgings in small towns, are still unaware of sustainable practices. Continued …

Thailand Surpasses Maldives in Popularity for Indian Honeymooners

A report by MakeMyTrip reveals that Thailand is the top honeymoon destination for Indian couples, with a shift toward longer trips and multi-destination travel. Domestic preferences changed, favoring the Andamans over Kerala.

The report, “How India Travels for Honeymoon”, analyzes booking data from October 2023 to September 2024, revealing trends in couples’ travel preferences. Thailand emerged as the top honeymoon destination for Indian travelers, with a 5.2% year-on-year increase in bookings, surpassing the Maldives, which experienced a 16.2% decline. Other international favorites included Indonesia, Mauritius, and Vietnam, all gaining booking shares. Continued …

PKK’s Klong Wan: The Hidden Gem Town You’ve Never Heard Of

If you’d asked me three years ago about Klong Wan, Thailand, I wouldn’t have known what to say. I wouldn’t even have been able to find it on a map. But after a three-month stay in Thailand a few years ago, I found myself holed up in Klong Wan for a deliciously unexpected 10 days of bliss.

Klong Wan is a remote village on the Gulf of Thailand in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Most visitors know Prachuap Khiri Khan thanks to the buzzy beach resort of Hua Hin — a seemingly endless strip of white-sand beaches dotted with high-rise hotels and pulsing beach clubs. Klong Wan, by comparison, is an entirely different game. About an hour and a half from Hua Hin, it sits sandwiched between national forest and national park, cushioned between the mountain border with Myanmar and the sparkling Gulf of Thailand. Continued …

BMA brings Lanna-style Loy Krathong celebrations to Bangkok

Bangkokians (and visitors) can experience the authentic Lanna (upper northern region) style of Loy Krathong Festival in the city on the banks of Chao Phraya River from Nov. 13-15, without having to travel to Chiang Mai or Sukhothai provinces.

The event, “Yi Peng Muan Jai–Loy Krathong Thai-Lanna”, hosted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), in collaboration with the Northerner Association of Thailand and business partners, will be held on Charoen Krung Road and the banks of Chao Phraya River, from Taksin Bridge to Chan Road in Bangkok’s Sathon district. Continued … 

5 Iconic Dishes You Must Try in Thailand

From the north of Chiang Mai to shores of the Andaman Sea, these five Thai dishes have an origin story to learn from, and tastes to savor.

Dish of the North: Laab

When people think of laab (or larb), the salty-spicy minced meat salad — they often think of the more popular version from the northeast, which is fiery, tart, and redolent of toasted rice powder. For generations, hunting for the meat — traditionally wild boar or buffalo — was a rite of passage for young men eager to show off their prowess, and the dish is served only on special occasions like weddings or funerals, says chef Phanuphon “Black” Bulsuwan of Blackitch Artisan Kitchen, in Chiang Mai. Continued …

24 must try Street Foods in Bangkok

Some of the best Thai street food can be found in Bangkok. Today, we are taking you on a huge street food tour of Bangkok, tasting the 24 must try street foods around the city.

Bangkok is the street food capital of the world, and it’s no wonder since every corner you turn is full of Thai street food. Full of flavor and unique tastes, Thai food is some of the best in the world. Video … 

Why You Should Visit Thailand in the Off-season

With its rich culture, renowned cuisine, and warm hospitality, Thailand has become a top-tier destination for all types of travelers. Many of the country’s beautiful sights and unique experiences can be enjoyed year-round, and some are even enhanced by the slower season of June through October.

The words “monsoon season” may not inspire the average traveler to hop on a plane halfway around the world, but they would be mistaken and a bit short-sighted. With scattered showers and sunny skies, especially at the start of the rainy season, Thailand is far more approachable than your imagination would lead you to believe. Continued …

An Insider’s Guide to Bangkok – food, rooftop bars and luxury hotels

Bangkok, Thailand’s kaleidoscopic capital, is everything, everywhere, all at once. It’s both hypermodern and frozen in time, deeply traditional yet forward-thinking. Its streets smell of exhaust fumes and jasmine flowers, grilled meat and incense smoke.

There are quiet, green corners (like Lumpini Park), and markets so colorful and chaotic (try Khlong Toei) that they’ll make your head spin. One thing it’s never, though, is boring. Continued …

7 Places in Thailand Where Locals Love to Go

Thailand’s breathtaking islands, colorful cultural sights, and delicious cuisine make it a spectacular destination for both international and domestic travelers. Cultures shift dramatically from region to region, allowing Thai people to experience a fresh excitement and sense of adventure without ever having to leave their own country.

For many Thai people, domestic travel is an opportunity to feel proud of their country’s vibrant history, well-maintained traditions, and stunning natural treasures. From tiny tropical islands to big cities, these are some of the Thai destinations they love to visit. Continued …

4 hidden Thai gems offering enriching experiences away from the crowds

Thailand is such a well-loved destination, clients may be inclined to press repeat on their favourite places or think they’ve seen all it has to offer. But, mindful of sustainability and keen to show off lesser-visited areas, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has suggestions to entice travelers beyond the hotspots.

The culture-rich northern city of Nan has a host of eye-popping temples. Your clients can spend a day admiring the beautiful hilltop Wat Phra That Chae Haeng and large golden Buddha at Wat Chang Kham. Recommend visiting Wat Phumin, as this famous temple is guarded by two large nagas – a half-human, half-serpent being – and appears to have been built upon their backs. Continued … 

How to Spend a Week in Phang Nga

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 the Sarojin Thailand, 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 …

This Small Town in Thailand Has Some of the Country’s Most Beautiful Landscapes

Most people don’t go to Thailand to visit Pai. They end up in Pai because they heard about it at the food stalls of Khao San Road in Bangkok or in the beach bars of Phuket.

About a three-hour drive from the more popular Chiang Mai, it’s a remote part of the country, isolated in northwestern Mae Hong Son province, which sits along Myanmar’s border. Pai is not an unheard-of destination, but it’s a far cry from the more raucous energy you’ll find in Thailand’s cities or on its best-known islands. Continued …

Fields of gold: Bua tong blooms in Mae Hong Son

As winter approaches, the northern province of Mae Hong Son transforms into a breathtaking spectacle. The annual blooming of the bua tong, or tree marigold, is a magnificent sight, attracting both domestic and international tourists.

The flowers, known for their vibrant yellow hue, carpet the slopes of Doi Mae U Kho. This stunning natural phenomenon occurs only once a year, typically between November and December. The unique climate and terrain of the region create the perfect conditions for these flowers to flourish. Continued …

I Visited Elephants in the Wild in Thailand — Here’s How You Can, Too

I encountered my first elephant when I was eight years old, while visiting my grandparents in Bangkok. Back in the 1980s, it was common to see the animals roaming the streets, begging for food in the company of their mahouts, or handlers.

I would grab some fruit from my grandmother’s kitchen to secretly feed these majestic giants. I remember being awestruck when one scooped up a whole watermelon from my hands and crushed it effortlessly. Continued …

10 Best National Parks in Thailand

Thailand’s lush tropical rainforests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking mountain ranges offer a sanctuary for nature lovers and adventurers alike. And with almost 150 national parks to choose from, deciding where to go can be a challenge.

“In the north, the parks are well-managed and easily accessible, boasting eco-friendly initiatives and projects. In contrast, the southern parks are more untamed and wild. Each park offers a unique cultural experience based on its location,” says James Jones, an avid outdoorsman and Phuket local of six years. Jones goes on to explain that “there’s an impressive array of national parks that are highly accessible, easy to reach, and well-marked.” Continued …

EGAT aims to turn hydropower dams into giant ‘batteries’

Three more hydropower dams operated by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) will be developed into giant “batteries” under a 90-billion-baht investment to supply clean power to the country, easing concerns about insufficient electricity generated by solar and wind power.

EGAT is conducting a feasibility study at the dams, aiming to adopt a pumped storage hydropower (PSH) system for hydroelectric energy storage, said Tawatchai Sumranwanich, deputy governor of EGAT. Continued …

Thai agencies to collaborate on climate and energy initiative with Germany

A series of Thai government and public agencies have signed a landmark agreement to collaborate on climate targets under a German government-backed initiative, which includes a plan for Thailand to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero emissions by 2065, according to a statement by the parties Nov. 6.

The Thai-German Cooperation on Energy, Mobility, and Climate initiative, funded by Germany’s International Climate Initiative and overseen by the Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, seeks to integrate various sectors through a comprehensive approach known as “sector coupling,” a strategy designed to enhance sustainability through optimizing energy use and reducing emissions. Continued …

Singapore’s Changi Airport to hike fees to fund upgrades

Changi Airport in Singapore will charge passengers and airlines more to fly in and out of the city-state to help finance a S$2.3-billion (US1.75 billion) upgrade of its terminals. The operator of one of Asia’s most-awarded airports said in a statement on Thursday that the hike in fees, between 2025 and 2030, will aid in covering the cost of rising demand for air travel while enabling the airport to stay competitive. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its daily flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai:

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

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

Special schedule for Loy Krathong holiday (Nov 15): departure from Hua Hin 2pm, arrival in Chiang Mai 3:15pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
baht, bangkok, cha am, covid, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news-April 30

Today’s news: Feedback/Dropping Water Reservoir Levels/Water Crisis in Buriram/EEC prepares for water shortages/Pray for rain/Close thermometer on Thai farming/Record-breaking electricity usage/Hidden expenses of car ownership/Thai Military’s Complex Business Interests/Doctor raises alarm over rising Covid-19/10 tons of free durians/Economy: Thai growth forecast downgraded/Thailand’s currency woes/Warning over minimum wage/Surge in scams, financial fraud/Possibility for Marijuana Reform/Tourism: PATA coming to Cha Am/How Visit Thailand Year 1987 Revolutionized Global Tourism/High hopes for new tourism minister/Destinations limiting tourism numbers/King Cobra Panic/Thailand Experience: Shining jewels in Phang Nga/Kayaking trip on Andaman coast/Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news/International news/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Re: Bangkok Governor Targets Taxi and Tuk-Tuk Overcharging.

“I’m sort of confused why people still use taxis and tuk tuks when there’s Grab and Bolt, where you know the price up front! It’s not just Bangkok where they’re a rip off.” – Peter

Thai Residents Struggle Amid Dropping Water Reservoir Levels

Thailand is grappling with a significant drop in water levels in the Lam Takhong Reservoir and Lam Mun River, possibly leading to water shortages. With the reservoir containing just 35.4% of its capacity, water scarcity is becoming a stark reality due to drought and high heat.

Lam Takhong Reservoir, a critical water source for five regional districts, now only holds 111.25 million cubic meters, which is a dramatic down tick from 204.63 million or 65% capacity last year, according to the provincial irrigation project. Continued …

Prolonged Drought Triggers Water Crisis in Buriram

The ongoing drought in Thailand’s Buriram province has resulted in a severe water shortage, forcing about 300 households across three villages in the Mueang district to buy water. The crisis is due to the drying up of groundwater sources, which the villages have traditionally relied on, as they don’t have access to local water pipelines.

The villages of old and new Ban Nong Makhuea, and Ban Nong Hua Ling, despite being near the Huai Jorakhe Mak reservoir, which serves the Mueang district, have no direct access to its water. They typically use a combination of groundwater and rainwater, however, this year’s intense drought has drained the groundwater reserves. Continued …

EEC prepares for water shortages

A water shortage, caused by an El Niño-induced drought, in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) could be avoided as water supplies have been prepared for factories to help them get through the dry season this year, says the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT).

There are 41 industrial estates housing 6,000 factories in the EEC, which covers parts of Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao. Their demand for water stands at 1.5 million cubic meters a day. Continued …

Thai Muslims urged to pray for rain on May 4

The Sheikhul Islam Office, the office of the Muslim spiritual leader of Thailand, has urged the faithful in Thailand to pray for rain on May 4th.

In a letter addressed to all provincial Muslim leaders, the Chularatchamontri, Arun Boonchom, has urged all Muslims in Thailand to pray for rain, claiming that the entire country is facing drought and water sources are drying up, due to the hot weather and prolonged lack of rain, causing widespread hardship to the people. Continued …

DIT keeps close thermometer on Thai farming

The sweltering weather conditions currently sweeping across Thailand have prompted the Department of Internal Trade (DIT) to closely monitor their impact on the country’s agricultural and livestock production. Despite the challenging weather and drought, DIT Director-General, Wattanasak Sur-iam, assured that the price of agricultural goods remains stable.

To alleviate the cost of living for consumers and restaurant owners, the DIT has implemented initiatives to source affordably priced vegetables for nationwide distribution. In Bangkok and surrounding metropolitan areas, 10 types of vegetables will be available at wholesale prices, effectively 30% cheaper than retail costs, via Thong Fah (Blue Flag) mobile units. Continued …

Thailand’s record-breaking electricity usage heats up weekend

A record-breaking increase in electricity usage was registered in Thailand over the weekend as the nation grappled with soaring temperatures. The Ministry of Energy confirmed late Saturday that power demand peaked at 36,356 megawatts, surpassing the previous record set on Monday, April 22.

Extreme heat has been particularly severe in the country’s northern and northeastern regions. The Meteorological Department of Thailand reported a high of 44C in several areas on Sunday. With this persistent heatwave, authorities are repeatedly cautioning the public about the health risks associated with the intense heat. Continued …

The hidden expenses of car ownership revealed

We all know that cars are expensive, but many are unaware of how much it really costs to own one. While many think fuel is the only cost to worry about, there’s actually a whole lot more to consider when it comes to owning a car. From maintenance to insurance, the hidden expenses can sneak up on you.

Committing to car ownership means you have to constantly renew the registration and pay for your car tax every year as specified in the Land Transport Act of 2522 B.E. The tax rate of a car in Thailand is calculated based on the engine size in cubic centimeters (CC). Continued …

Unveiling Thai Military’s Complex Business Interests

The Thai military has an intricate network of business dealings that remain largely unexplored. From gas stations to golf courses, the armed forces’ interests have taken root in various sectors.

These findings emerge amid initiatives by the House of Representatives to disentangle the military from these commercial activities, to prevent corruption and maintain focus on national defense. Continued …

Doctor raises alarm over rising Covid-19 admissions and deaths

A lecturer in Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine has warned Thais to be more vigilant against Covid-19, saying infection rates appeared to be worsening, with higher hospital admissions, deaths and severe cases.

Dr. Thira Woratanarat said figures from the past week from April 21 to 27 showed that 1,672 Covid patients were admitted to hospitals and nine died. He said 390 of the patients suffered from severe lung infections and 148 others had to be put on ventilators. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

10 tons of free durians on Saturday – in Nonthaburi

Bangkok Land Plc will hand out 10 tons of durians free of charge on Saturday when it opens its new wholesale and retail durian market in its Muang Thong Thani town in Nonthaburi.

Bangkok Land announced that those attending the grand opening of its durian market at 5pm on Saturday will get free durians until the 10-ton quota runs out. Continued …

Finance Ministry downgrades Thai growth forecast

The Finance Ministry on Monday downgraded its economic growth forecast to 2.4% for this year, down from its previous projection of 2.8% in January.

Pornchai Thiraveja, director-general of the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) under the Finance Ministry, said the Thai economy is now facing four key challenges, including lower-than-expected exports, especially in industrial goods. Continued …

Tepid exports recovery add to Thailand’s currency woes

An unexpectedly weak export performance in Asia’s emerging economies risks adding pressure to their currencies already hammered by a strong dollar and the Federal Reserve’s hawkish pivot.

Data Monday showed Thailand’s outbound shipments contracted 11% in March, falling below all forecasts in a Bloomberg survey, owing in part to a higher base of comparison a year ago. Continued … 

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Warning over minimum wage increase

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) said that if the government raises the minimum daily wage to 400 baht nationwide, it may lead to GDP growing at a rate below 2.6% and increase the rate of inflation to 3%, affecting consumer purchasing power.

Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the UTCC, said a survey of 403 business operators across the country, carried out between April 22-26 and comprising manufacturing (36.9%), trade (33%), and the service sector (30.1%), found that an appropriate minimum daily wage would be 370 baht per day. Continued …

Nation hit by surge in scams, financial fraud

Thailand was one of the top three countries in the Asia-Pacific region to suffer a significant surge in financial fraud scams last year, according to Google’s 2023 Bad Apps Report.

“In 2023, we saw a significant rise in scams and financial fraud. Notably, Singapore, Thailand and India saw a significant surge in financial fraud scams,” said Aman Dayal, head of trust and safety operations for Asia-Pacific at Google Play, during an online media roundtable on the report. Continued …

Thailand’s Cabinet Reshuffle Fuels Possibility for Marijuana Reform

A cabinet shake-up by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin may lead to significant amendments to the cannabis bill. This comes after former Justice Minister Somsak Thepsuthin replaced Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew.

Cholnan has been a key figure in debates on cannabis legislation. He had faced much criticism over the plant’s legalization in 2022 by Anutin Charnvirakul, the former Health minister who now serves as the Interior minister and deputy prime minister. Continued …

PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 coming to Cha Am

The Pacific Asia Travel Assn. (PATA) is set to organize the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 (PDMF 2024) at Dusit Thani Hua Hin in Cha Am, Nov. 12-14.

The event is co-hosted by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB),  Phetchaburi city and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), with the support of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Continued …

How Visit Thailand Year 1987 Revolutionized Global Tourism

In 1987, Thailand marked the auspicious 60th birthday of His Majesty the late King Rama IX the Great with an extraordinary national celebration known as Visit Thailand Year. It was a grand invitation for visitors worldwide to join the Thai people in marking the King’s historic 5th 12-year cycle of life.

The event proved to be a grand success. The entire Thai travel and tourism industry came together like never before. Thai Airways International used its worldwide network and marketing clout to launch a multi-million baht ad campaign, which stunned the world. Continued …

High hopes for new tourism minister

Now that the new cabinet lineup has been settled, tourism operators are calling for greater unity between each ministry and related authorities to continue with the plan of making Thailand a tourism and aviation hub.

Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Assn., said the cabinet reshuffle would not disrupt the government’s stability, as long as its flagship policies continue, particularly the 2030 Ignite Thailand vision, which aims to elevate the status of Thailand in the fields of tourism and aviation. Continued …

Popular global destinations that are trying to limit tourism numbers

Growing tourism numbers are placing popular destinations under extra pressure – due to various factors, including environmental and residential concerns.

Here are some locations limiting tourists – or which could be about to take action. Continued …

King Cobra Panic During Chiang Rai Rafting Trip

Visitors on a rafting expedition at Mae Suai Dam in Chiang Rai were thrown into panic after encountering a large king cobra.

The group was enjoying a relaxing day on the water when shouts about an incoming snake startled them. They couldn’t initially spot the reptile but immediately alerted friends to leave the water as the cries from the other bank intensified and the snake floated past them. It eventually got trapped under a nearby raft. Continued …

The shining jewels in Phang Nga’s crown

Still have no ideas about where to spend the Labor Day holiday? Then why not consider the Similan Islands National Park in Phang Nga province and relax on one of its nine islets that are considered a jewel of southern Thailand.

Located at the center of the nine islets – Similan means 9 in Malay – Ko Miang is especially famous for its white sandy beach and crystal clear waters and is a perfect spot to snorkel. Continued …

Hidden Thailand explored on a kayaking trip up country’s Andaman coast

In 2006, German travel magazine Hidden Europe published A Manifesto for Slow Travel – an essay that argues journeys should be “a moment to relax rather than a stressful interlude imposed between home and destination.

“Slow travel,” it continues, “re-engineers time, transforming it into a commodity of abundance rather than scarcity. And slow travel also reshapes our relationship with places, encouraging and allowing us to engage more intimately with the communities through which we travel.” Continued …

Climate Thailand: Today’s Thai environmental news

More drugs found on Hong Kong airport arrivals in first 4 months of year than during all of 2023

The amount of illegal drugs confiscated from air travelers at Hong Kong International Airport soared to 370 kilograms in the first four months of the year, a 32% increase over the total amount seized in all of 2023. Continued …

KFC shutters over 100 restaurants in Malaysia amid pro-Palestine boycott

KFC has reduced its operations in Malaysia, shuttering more than 100 restaurants temporarily after months of a persistent pro-Palestine boycott of U.S.-linked businesses triggered by the ongoing war in Gaza. Continued …

Hopes Rise For Possible Gaza Truce Deal

Hopes rose on Monday for a long-sought-after truce and hostage release deal after almost seven months of war in Gaza between Palestinian Hamas militants and Israel. Washington’s top diplomat said he was “hopeful” Hamas would accept the offer, which his British counterpart said could see the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

 

Hua Hin Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

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

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

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

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

baht, bangkok, chiang mai, covid, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-April 24

  • Anzac Day dawn service, Kanchanaburi, tomorrow/
  • Beach Party/Music Festival in Cha Am Saturday/
  • Old Days festival at Bluport May 5-7/
  • Scorching Hot Weather, Rising Electricity Bills lead to Public Outcry/
  • Thailand’s heatwave nears end, rainy season looms/
  • Weatherman says current hot weather in Thailand does not qualify as a heat wave/
  • Summer storms to batter 59 provinces until Wednesday/
  • Baht all safe and sound – for now/
  • Daily Covid-19 cases in Bangkok spike/
  • Wild Brawl Involving Bombs and Firearms at Popular Pattaya Market/
  • English fighter stuns Thai legend Nong-O for One Muay Thai title
  • Thailand’s economy: Thailand’s unemployment rate drops below 1% for first time in 4 years/Thailand’s industrial confidence index for March highest in a decade/Q1 Foreign Investment Soars by 25%, $960 Million, Japan Top/Events sector set to grow by 30% amid election bump/Thailand’s fruit exports to China keep on growing/How Thailand Minister Pushed Through Asia’s First Cannabis Legalization/
  • Tourism: Raja Ferry temporarily suspends Pha Ngan–Samui route/US expat: 7 things tourists should never do when they visit Bangkok/Chiang Mai tourism hit by smog/Tour Boat with 42 Foreign Tourists Gets Stuck on a Sandbank in Phang Nga/
  • Thailand Experience: 17 Best Places To Eat And Drink In Bangkok/Thai Street Food – 5 ‘must eat’ Foods in Chinatown, Bangkok/14 elephants get apologies and a fruit feast after unique ceremony in Trang/The backpacker dish so famous they named a whole region after it/
  • International: Norway surpasses Russia in energy exports/SEAL Team 6, Army special forces rescue US diplomats in Sudan/Philippines schools can call off classes due to heat/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Beach Party/Music Festival in Cha Am Saturday

The NangLay Beach Party and Music Festival will be held at the northern end of the Cha Am beach area, near the Triple Tree Resort on Saturday, April 29.

The non-stop party features many popular artists, including Bright Vachirawit and Nanon, Billkin, Palmy, Potato, Paradox, Joey Boy, Three Man Down, Tillybirds, Paper Planes And Sarah Salola, with a light and sound system throughout the night.

Ticket sales in every 7-Eleven store or HERE.

Scorching Hot Weather, Rising Electricity Bills lead to Public Outcry

Restaurants and entertainment venues in Thailand are struggling with rising power bills and the absence of outdoor customers due to the current scorching weather. Super malls, however, are getting more customers from people looking for shade and cool air, according to Thanakorn Kuptachit, an adviser to the Thai Alcohol Business Assn.

Thanakorn revealed that the sweltering weather across Thailand is negatively affecting entertainment places, hotels, and restaurants. Continued …

Thailand’s heatwave nears end, rainy season looms

Thailand’s hot season approaches its conclusion as the rainy season is set to begin in mid-May, according to the country’s Meteorological Department. The hot season peaked on April 15, when the temperature reached a record high of 44.6°C in Tak.

Deputy Director-general Thanasit Iam-ananchai has stated that throughout the weekend daily heat indices or apparent temperatures are anticipated to surge to precarious levels in specific regions, such as Bang Na district in Bangkok, Sattahip district in Chon Buri, and Phuket. Thanasit attributes this to the proximity to the sea and increased humidity levels in these coastal areas. Continued …

Weatherman says current hot weather in Thailand does not qualify as a heat wave

The hot weather, currently affecting many parts of Thailand, is being caused by persistent low pressure cell, according to Somkuan Tonjan, head of the Central Weather Forecast subdivision of the Thai Meteorological Department.

It does not qualify as a “heat wave”, which is an extended period of hot weather relative to the expected conditions of the area at that time of year, which may be accompanied by high humidity. Continued … 

Summer storms to batter 59 provinces until Wednesday

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned that 59 provinces in the North, Northeast, Central and East will be hit by summer storms from Sunday to Wednesday.

The summer storms are possibly being caused by the influence of a moderate high-pressure system over the South China Sea, TMD said. This high-pressure system is bringing southerly and southeasterly winds to upper Thailand, which are fast gaining strength, it added. Continued …

Baht all safe and sound – for now

While the recent banking debacle in the U.S. and Europe sparked fears about a contagion spreading worldwide, the head of Thailand’s Deposit Protection Agency (DPA) said since the agency’s establishment in 2008, Thailand has never been close to requiring action to protect deposits.

DPA President Songpol Chevapanyaroj said the agency and the Bank of Thailand cooperate to prevent failures in Thailand’s banking system. Continued …

Daily Covid-19 cases in Bangkok spike

Bangkok‘s daily number of Covid-19 cases has experienced a significant spike, nearly doubling from 400 to 700 in the wake of the city’s recent Songkran festival. This has led to growing concerns among local authorities, who fear that the true extent of the situation might not yet be fully understood.

The deputy city clerk at the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Dr. Wantanee Watana, has warned that the situation may deteriorate further, with some cases potentially not having been reported to the relevant authorities, or still being in the process of being recorded. This could result in the daily number of Covid-19 cases in the Thai capital rising even further to approximately 1,000 cases per day. Continued …

Wild Brawl Involving Bombs and Firearms at Popular Pattaya Market

A teenager has sustained head injuries after being hit with a rock in a wild Pattaya market brawl that involved both gun shooting and bomb throwing.

The Pattaya City Police were notified of the incident just before dawn on Saturday morning at the popular Poethisarn Market in North Pattaya. Continued …

English fighter stuns Thai legend Nong-O for One Muay Thai title

English Muay Thai fighter Jonathan Haggerty scored a shocking TKO (technical knockout) against Thai opponent Nong-O Gaiyanghadao, aka Nong-O Hama, to capture the One bantamweight Muay Thai world title on Saturday.

One Championship (One) produced another epic evening of martial arts action at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. The competition featured Muay Thai and mixed martial arts (MMA) in various categories. Continued …

Thailand’s unemployment rate drops below 1% for first time in 4 years

Thailand’s unemployment rate at the end of February dropped below 1% for the first time in four years, which is a sign that the economy is improving, the government said.

Trisulee Trisaranakul, a deputy government spokesperson, on Sunday cited the National Statistical Office (NSO)’s report showing that the rate of unemployment at the end of February stood at 0.9%, compared to 1% at the end of last year. Continued …

Thailand’s industrial confidence index for March highest in a decade

Thailand’s Industrial Sentiment Index (TISI) was at its highest for a decade in March, boosted by a rebound in domestic demand, production increases and improved performance, with the exception of production costs, said government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri on Sunday.

The index rose to 97.8 points in March, up from 94.1 points and 96.8 points in January and February, respectively, and was the highest since January 2013, he said, adding that he expects the index to pass 100 to 106.3 in the next three months. Continued …

Q1 Foreign Investment Soars by 25%, $960 Million, Japan Top

Thosapone Dansuputra, director-general of the Business Development Department, in his capacity as the secretary of the Board of Investment of Foreign Business, revealed that in the first quarter of 2023 (January – March), a total of 174 foreign businesses were granted permission to invest in Thailand under the Foreign Business Act of 1999, with a total investment value of 33 billion baht (960 U.S. dollars).

Out of these, 56 businesses obtained investment licenses and 118 received a certificate of permission to operate their business. These businesses also created job opportunities for 1,932 Thai people. Continued …

Events sector set to grow by 30% amid election bump

Thailand’s event-management industry is expected to grow by 25%-30% to reach 16-17 billion baht this year, as both the government and private sectors are rolling out events, particularly related to election campaigns.

According to Upathum Nisitsukcharoen, president of the Event Management Assn., spending on organized event management is expected to exceed 9 billion baht in the first half this year, a 30% increase, up roughly two billion year-on-year. Continued …

Thailand’s fruit exports to China keep on growing

Thailand, already a dominant fruit exporter to China, witnessed a growth of 3.7% in 2022, generating more than 168-billion baht in revenue. The country’s thriving fruit industry found an avid market in China, which imported over 2.17 million tons of Thai fruit last year, according to a recent report from the Commerce Ministry.

A diverse assortment of Thai fruit, such as bananas, coconuts, durians, dragon fruit, and longans consistently ranked high in Chinese imports. These fruits were exported in various forms, including fresh, frozen, dried, and processed, catering to the diverse palates and culinary preferences in China. Continued …

How Thailand Minister Pushed Through Asia’s First Cannabis Legalization

Until last summer, Thailand had some of the world’s harshest drug laws, with possession of cannabis then punishable by up to 15 years in prison. But on June 9, marijuana was decriminalized and a resurgent cannabis culture has seen dispensaries popping up across the Southeast Asian nation of 70 million.

The move was the brainchild of Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand’s deputy prime minister and Health minister, whose Bhumjaithai Party is today the junior partner in a military-backed ruling coalition. Anutin’s pitch was that legalizing cannabis could reduce prison overcrowding — more than 80% of inmates in Thai prisons were incarcerated on drug-related charges — while spurring a hemp industry to alleviate rural poverty. The Thai cannabis market is now projected to reach $9.6 billion by 2030. Continued …

Raja Ferry temporarily suspends Pha Ngan–Samui route

Raja Ferry Port Co. has suspended all ferry services between Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Samui in Surat Thani province in southern Thailand from Sunday–Wednesday (April 23-25).

The company did not cite a reason for the suspension. Last week, a ferry on the Raja Ferry’s Koh Samui–mainland route sank at Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani province. – Thetahiger.com

US expat: 7 things tourists should never do when they visit Bangkok

I moved to Bangkok from Brooklyn in 2013 to take on a job at a branding agency. After that job finished, my wife and I decided to stay because of the people. Thailand has one of the most welcoming cultures in the world.

Bangkok was the world’s most-visited city from 2016 to 2019, according to Mastercard’s Global Destination Index, an annual report that ranks and consolidates tourism data in 200 cities. In 2019, more than 22 million tourists spent at least one night in Bangkok. Continued …

Chiang Mai tourism hit by smog

Severe haze pollution has not only posed a health hazard to residents in Chiang Mai, but also dealt a blow to its tourism.

Concerned parties have urged the government to come up with long-term measures to deal with the problem, including pushing for the passage of a “clean air” bill pending deliberation in parliament. Continued …

Tour Boat with 42 Foreign Tourists Gets Stuck on a Sandbank in Phang Nga

A tour boat with 42 tourists from Phuket became stuck on a sandbank in Phang Nga. The boat was traveling from Phuket with 42 foreign tourists. They were traveling to the Hat Nopparat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi and Ao Phang Nga National Park. Boat crews and foreign tourists tried to push the boat off the bank for half an hour but failed. National Park staffers finally pushed the boat from the sandbank. There were no injuries from the incident. (Pattaya News)

17 Best Places To Eat And Drink In Bangkok

Thailand, otherwise known as The Land of Smiles, has so much to offer the world — not least of which is the country’s beautiful cuisine, which has seen an explosion of popularity in recent years. And what’s not to love?

Thai cuisine is adept at meeting the needs of various eaters; it’s easy to go gluten-free or vegetarian, and Thai cooking is notoriously dairy free. If you’ve become as consumed by Thai tastes as us, you probably hope to one day get right to the source and experience this amazing cuisine in its home country. Continued …

Thai Street Food – 5 ‘must eat’ Foods in Chinatown, Bangkok – Video 

 

14 elephants get apologies and a fruit feast after unique ceremony in Trang

Fourteen elephants were treated to a fruit buffet during a rare annual ceremony held in the southern province of Trang on Saturday.

The elephants, each with a mahout on the back, lined up along a 30-meter-long makeshift table strewn with sugarcanes, bananas, watermelons, and pineapples — all their favorite foods. Continued …

The backpacker dish so famous they named a whole region after it

It’s the dish so famous, they named a whole region after it. Of course, by “they” we mean Western travelers making their way around Southeast Asia, those who noticed that everywhere tourists went in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam, vendors also appeared selling a dish they had come to know and love: banana pancakes.

Welcome to the Banana Pancake Trail. Welcome to the culture of banana pancakes, the wildly popular street-food snack that isn’t a pancake at all, but rather a Thai/Malaysian-style roti filled with fresh banana and topped with condensed milk. To make it, a glutinous dough is stretched gossamer-thin, fried on a hotplate before being filled, folded, flipped and served. And all this, usually, for about $1. Continued …

Norway surpasses Russia in energy exports

In a remarkable turn of events, a humble office building overlooking a fjord in Stavanger, Norway, now holds the key to European energy security. Here, the company Petoro oversees several of the continent’s largest oil and natural gas fields on Norway’s petroleum-rich continental shelf. This unassuming location has become central to Europe’s quest to keep the lights on amid rising tensions with Russia over the war in Ukraine. Continued … 

SEAL Team 6, Army special forces rescue US diplomats in Sudan

Details emerged Sunday from the dramatic evacuation of U.S. diplomats from the Sudanese capital of Khartoum, while aid workers and other Americans remained imperiled amid the raging warfare pitting rival generals. Continued … 

Philippines schools can call off classes due to heat

As several parts of the Philippines try to cope with the summer heat, the Department of Education (DepEd) said on Saturday that school authorities could call off in-person classes to safeguard the health of their students and staff. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, medical tourism, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-April 13

  • Thousands turn out to celebrate Songkran in Hua Hin/
  • 74 deaths already during ‘Seven Deadly Days’ of Songkran Festival/
  • A special Songkran awaits in Bangkok/
  • Khao San Road locked and loaded for three days of Songkran mayhem/
  • Songkran crowds hit Krung Thep Aphiwat in first big test for new national rail hub/
  • Over two-thirds of Thais plan to consume alcohol during Songkran/
  • Nakhon Ratchasima gets highest number of Google hits for Songkran getaways/
  • Elderly citizens being abandoned as population change grips Thailand/
  • Most elderly want care from families/
  • More Thailand News: Summer storms forecast for most of Thailand this weekend/Apple making big move to Thailand as production shifts from China/Wildfire threatens Khao Yai National Park/How to find the right language school in Thailand for you/Sergeant major surrenders after allegedly hacking 55 million Thais’ data/Pepsi Thailand introduces bottles made from 100% recycled plastic/Thailand’s medical cannabis market to grow by 26%/
  • Tourism: Chiang Mai celebrates 727th anniversary/‘This week, no one’: Tourists shun choking Chiang Mai/TAT optimistic about reaching long-haul market target/Your Guide to Thailand Visas: Everything You Need to Know/Navigating healthcare in Thailand: tips for tourists and expats seeking medical care/Speedboat explosion in southern Thailand kills 1, injures 1/
  • Thailand Experience: Instagram-worthy spots for Thailand Travel 2023/Thailand’s most stunning waterfalls/
  • International: Airstrikes on Myanmar Village Feared To Have Killed 100/Asia-Pacific countries in arms race amid tensions in region/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Thousands turn out to celebrate Songkran in Hua Hin

Thousands for people descended on Hua Hin on Wednesday to celebrate the Songkran festival.

People took part in water splashing and partying across town in Soi 94, Soi Bintabaht and Soi 51 from mid-mid morning and well into the night.

Earlier, Polkrit Phuangvalaisin, Hua Hin district chief, presided over the opening ceremony of the Songkran Festival in Hua Hin. Continued …

74 deaths already during ‘Seven Deadly Days’ of Songkran Festival

The Thai government has issued a warning to drivers who are traveling during the Songkran Festival, urging them to be careful on the road. This warning comes after the Thailand Road Accidents Data Center for Road Safety Culture (ThaiRSC) reported 74 fatalities and 2,322 injuries on the first day of the “Seven Deadly Days” of the Songkran Festival. As of today, on day two, there have been 37 fatal injuries and 1,771 injuries reported.

Chotnarin Kerdsom, the Interior deputy permanent secretary, stated that speeding was the primary cause of “Seven Deadly Days” accidents (35%), followed by cutting in front of other vehicles (25%). Most accidents involved motorcycles (79%), and the majority of crashes occurred on main roads (87%), followed by highways (48%). Continued … 

A special Songkran awaits in Bangkok

The Songkran celebration is very special this year. It’s the first time in four years we can enjoy the fun the festival has to offer.

Once again, Bangkok remains a popular destination for Songkran revelers from around the world, as they can find any kind of activity at many different locations. Here are some of the venues to make the summer holidays memorable. Continued …

Khao San Road locked and loaded for three days of Songkran mayhem

Khaosan Road in Bangkok was bustling again on Wednesday after three years of pandemic, as revelers turned up to celebrate the Songkran festival.

Vendors have lined the street with stalls selling food and drink, as well as water guns, plastic bags for smartphones and other equipment for water fights. Continued …

Songkran crowds hit Krung Thep Aphiwat in first big test for new national rail hub

Huge crowds were seen at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok on Wednesday as the Songkran exodus to hometowns began in earnest.

Millions of people are expected to make take trips to their family homes or tourism destinations over the long holiday for the Thai New Year. This is the first big test for the new national rail hub in Chatuchak district. Long-distance trains were switched to Krung Thep Aphiwat in January. Continued …

Over two-thirds of Thais plan to consume alcohol during Songkran

A survey by a state department showed that 71.6% of Thais planned to consume alcohol with friends and family members, which is the norm every year.

The survey by the Department of Health Service Support under the Ministry of Health polled 12,305 people nationwide. Continued …

Water wars turn nasty in north: Five injured as fists and bottles thrown

What should be the joyous occasion of Songkran – the traditional Thai new year – turned into a melee in Lampang, northern Thailand.

Following a parade, tempers got frayed when two pickups vied for road space on Thap Chang road in the downtown area. Continued …

Nakhon Ratchasima gets highest number of Google hits for Songkran getaways

Nakhon Ratchasima in the Northeast of Thailand topped the list of most-searched provinces for Songkran getaways this past week.

Yuthask Supasorn, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said an analysis of Google searches and mentions shows that Chiang Mai has dropped significantly in the search for Songkran holiday destinations. He put this down to the bad air pollution and high fine-dust levels. Continued …

Elderly citizens being abandoned as population change grips Thailand

While family gatherings are common during the Songkran festival, many elderly Thais will be spending the holiday alone, just as they do for the rest of the year. At the age of 74, Buakaew is one of them.

“I am childless and now a widow,” the elderly woman said. “Although I raised a niece, she moved to another province three or four years ago.”

Her relatives have not completely abandoned her. Her niece has kept in contact. But Buakaew knows not to bother or burden her younger relative, as they no longer live under the same roof. Continued …

Most elderly want care from families

Most surveyed elderly people expect care from their families, especially from daughters, according to a survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA).

The survey, conducted from March 14 to 17 among 1,310 people aged 60 years and older throughout the country, aimed to determine who should take care of senior citizens. It was conducted to mark National Elderly Day and the first day of the Songkran festival on April 13. Continued …

More Thailand News …

Summer storms forecast for most of Thailand this weekend

Most of Thailand, except for the south, is expected to see summer storms this weekend, which will bring rain, strong winds and hail to some areas, according to the Meteorological Department.

A moderate cold front from China is expected to cover Thailand’s northeast and the South China Sea. This will intensify the southerly and southeasterly winds and bring humidity from the Gulf and South China Sea to the northern, northeastern, central and eastern regions of Thailand, said the department. Continued …

Apple making big move to Thailand as production shifts from China

Late last year, news broke that Apple Inc. was planning to shift production from China to Thailand; it now appears that this move is becoming a reality.

According to a report, the multinational technology company based in California is currently in discussions with suppliers regarding the manufacturing of MacBooks in Thailand, as part of its strategy to expand manufacturing outside of China.

Sources close to the discussions have revealed that these suppliers already have existing manufacturing complexes in Thailand, which they use for other clients. They are now exploring the possibility of producing and assembling components and modules for MacBooks. Continued …

Wildfire threatens Khao Yai National Park

A wildfire on Khao Tabaek mountain in Nakhon Nayok province has spread to a border area of Khao Yai National Park, park chief Chaiya Huayhongthong said.

The fire, which started on the night of April 10 on the mountain in tambon Khao Phra, Muang district, has spread to nearby forest areas. Continued …

How to find the right language school in Thailand for you

Learning Thai in Thailand is an excellent opportunity to broaden your horizon. With all of the options available, though, it can be difficult to know how to choose the right language school in Thailand for you.

But don’t worry — we’ve created this guide to help you make an informed decision to find the perfect language school that meets your needs. After all, mastering a new language starts with selecting the right school. Continued …

Sergeant major surrenders after allegedly hacking 55 million Thais’ data

The sergeant major accused of hacking the personal data of 55 million Thais surrendered to police this morning. The alleged hacker, Sgt. Maj. Khemarat Boonchuay, arrived at the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) this morning with his wife for questioning. Police said the suspect remained silent and did not respond to any questions.

Khemarat was suspended by the Royal Thai Army (RTA) on Friday for being absent without leave (AWOL) since April 3. The sergeant major was issued an arrest warrant for computer crime, leading to his suspension. Continued …

Pepsi Thailand introduces bottles made from 100% recycled plastic

Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) will switch to 100% recycled plastic for its 550ml Pepsi bottles, expected to enter the market later this month, under the campaign “Appreciate Fizz: Dare to Change the World.”

PepsiCo joined forces with Chulalongkorn University and ENVICCO Co. to launch the project, “Pepsi Recycled PET Bottle Campaign.” Pepsi will be the first carbonated drink brand to use 100% recycled plastic bottles in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand’s medical cannabis market to grow by 26%

Data Bridge Market Research predicts Thailand’s medical cannabis market is expected to have a compound annual growth (CAGR) of 25.2% in the forecast period of 2028 and is expected to reach USD 67,354.01 million by 2028.

On the basis of application, the Thailand medical cannabis market is segmented into Alzheimer’s disease, appetite loss, cancer, epilepsy, autism, mental health conditions, multiple sclerosis, pain management, nausea, muscle spasms, arthritis, elevate mood, multiple sclerosis, depression and sleep disorders, anxiety and others. In 2021, the Alzheimer’s disease segment is expected to dominate the market because of increasing R&D activities.

The major players operating in this market are Tilray, Elixinol Thailand, Medical Marijuana, Extractas, Peace Naturals Project, BOL Pharma, PharmaHemp, Kiehl’s (a subsidiary of L’Oreal), Canopy Growth Corp., Aurora Cannabis, Althea Co. (a subsidiary of Althea Group Holdings), Cresco Labs, IDT Australia, MediPharm Labs, THC Thailand Group, and Aphria, among others. – thesemweekly.org

Chiang Mai celebrates 727th anniversary

Chiang Mai held a merit-making ceremony to celebrate its 727th anniversary. The event was held to pay respect to the founders: King Mangrai, King Ngam Mueang and King Ram Khamhaeng. The three kings founded the city on April 12, 1296, which is the start of the Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai, which lasts until April 15.

Video 

Nirat Pongsitthithavorn, the governor of Chiang Mai, who presided over the event, offered food to the monks, along with locals and tourists, at the Three Kings Monument in Mueang Chiang Mai district, Chiang Mai province. Continued …

‘This week, no one’: Tourists shun choking Chiang Mai

Hazardous pollution levels in northern Thailand have left the historic city of Chiang Mai choking under thick smog, with local residents worried about the impact on tourism — and their health.

Smoke from forest fires and farmers burning crop stubble has suffocated the tourist city, with the global air monitoring platform IQAir ranking it among the most polluted places in the world — above regular hotspots such as Lahore and Delhi. Continued …

TAT optimistic about reaching long-haul market target

Stronger air traffic in the summer, with a projection of more than 98,000 flights, should help each long-haul market to exceed 1 million visitors by the end of this year, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas, said 98,625 flights scheduled between April and October exceeded the flight capacity of the previous cool season. Continued …

Your Guide to Thailand Visas: Everything You Need to Know

Thailand is a popular travel destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Thailand visas, so you can make sure you have everything you need before you travel.

There are several type of visa in Thailand, depending on the purpose of your visit. The most common types of visas are: Continued …

Navigating healthcare in Thailand: tips for tourists and expats seeking medical care

Healthcare in Thailand has gained a strong reputation over the years, attracting not only tourists and expats but also medical travelers seeking high-quality and affordable treatment.

With the country’s unique combination of public and private healthcare options, navigating the system may seem daunting, especially for first-time visitors. However, with some basic understanding and preparation, accessing medical care during your stay in Thailand can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. Continued …

Speedboat explosion in southern Thailand kills 1, injures 1

An explosion on a tourist speedboat docked at a pier in Phang Nga province in southern Thailand injured two people yesterday, one of whom later passed away in the hospital.

At around 8pm, the Phang Nga Harbor office was informed of a loud noise similar to an explosion on a speedboat at Ban Thap Lamu Pier in Lam Kaen subdistrict, Thai Mueang district. Continued …

Instagram-worthy spots for Thailand Travel 2023

Thailand, the mesmerizing jewel of Southeast Asia, has long been a favorite destination for globetrotters and photographers alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine, Thailand provides endless opportunities for awe-inspiring Instagram content.

So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this sublime country. Continued …

Thailand’s most stunning waterfalls

Thailand waterfall experiences are truly captivating, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the country’s stunning natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. Thailand is home to a variety of waterfalls, each with its unique charm and appeal. These cascading falls can be found in different parts of the country, from the green jungles of the north to the beautiful beaches of the south.

Many of these falls are located within national parks or wildlife sanctuaries, playing a crucial role in supporting the plant and animal life that thrives in these habitats. Visiting a waterfall in Thailand is not only a visual delight but also a chance to enjoy the calming sounds of nature, swim in clear pools, or go on an exciting trek through the surrounding wilderness. Continued …

Airstrikes on Myanmar Village Feared To Have Killed 100

Airstrikes by Myanmar’s military on Tuesday killed as many as 100 people, including many children, who were attending a ceremony held by opponents of army rule, said a witness, a member of a local pro-democracy group and independent media. Continued …

Asia-Pacific countries in arms race amid tensions in region

In March, Japan opened a new army camp on the tropical resort island of Ishigaki – about 330km east of Taiwan – staffed with 570 soldiers and stocked with an arsenal of anti-ship and surface-to-air missiles. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

 

bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-April 11

  • Songkran festivals around Thailand/
  • Foreigner slips, breaks neck on mossy seawall steps at Cha Am beach/
  • Airline industry blames rising costs for expensive airfares. Is this true?/
  • Consumer confidence at 3-year high/
  • Killer Cop’s Accomplice Caught In Phang Nga/
  • Tourism: Pollution choking Thailand’s north hits tourism, worries public/Songkran in Bangkok: Wild, wet and wonderful!/Khao San Road expects 30,000 tourists during Songkran/Phuket expects big holiday boost/Tourists Flock to Islands in Phang Nga During Songkran Festival/Thailand prepares for 14,000+ flights this Songkran/Bangkok among 2023’s top three destinations for backpackers’Kazakhstani tourist arrested for rampage on southern Thailand beach/Nok Air scraps only route to Mae Hong Son in northern Thailand/
  • Thailand Experience: Essential guide to staying healthy in Thailand’s climate/Best Thai restaurants in Bangkok for authentic Thai food/
  • International: Vietnam capital struggles with severe air pollution/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Songkran festivals around Thailand

Filled full of festivals, fun and frolics, April is one of the most celebrated months of the year in Thailand with the traditional Thai New Year of Songkran one of the most culturally important celebrations in the kingdom.

The Songkran festival is known worldwide and is celebrated to honor family values, pay respect to seniors, and participate in traditional ceremonies throughout the nation’s temples. This festival is observed as a three-day national holiday from April 13 to April 15 in Thailand. However, some locations also celebrate this festival a little later with unique local festivities. Continued …

Foreigner slips, breaks neck on mossy seawall steps at Cha Am beach

A 55-year-old foreign man slipped on some mossy steps and “broke bones in his neck” at Cha Am Beach in Phetchaburi province, his wife reported on Friday.

On Friday, a Thai woman sought justice for her foreign husband who is still being treated in hospital after an incident at Cha Am Beach on March 19. Continued …

Airline industry blames rising costs for expensive airfares. Is this true?

Expensive airfares look set to stay for the foreseeable future according to the airline industry. The industry is trotting out the usual excuses that the recent spike in expensive ticket prices is attributed to a rise in operational costs, including surging fuel prices and other factors.

Nok AirCEO Wutthiphum Jurangkool cited a surge in prices for aviation supply chain items due to the pandemic, such as spare parts and aircraft insurance. Continued …

Consumer confidence at 3-year high

Thailand’s consumer confidence rose for a 10th straight month in March, reaching a three-year high, boosted by a recovery in the crucial tourism sector and spending for the upcoming election, a survey showed today.

The consumer index of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) rose to 53.8 in March from 52.6 in February. Continued …

Killer Cop’s Accomplice Caught In Phang Nga

The accomplice of a policeman who killed his father-in-law and two other relatives at their house in Surat Thani on Saturday evening, with his wife, son and brother also now dead, has been arrested in Phang Nga.

National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittipraphat said at around 11 a.m. an unemployed man only identified as Mr. Manop, who accompanied Police Senior Sgt. Maj. Attaporn Wichien, 46, in the deadly attack was arrested in Phang Nga armed with an M16 rifle. Continued … 

Pollution choking Thailand’s north hits tourism, worries public

High pollution levels in Thailand’s northern city of Chiang Mai and surrounding provinces are keeping tourists away and alarming locals, with the government on Monday urging residents to avoid outdoor activities.

For several weeks last month, the city was at the top of air quality information platform IQAir’s global chart on poor air quality, ahead of Lahore and New Delhi. Continued …

Songkran in Bangkok: Wild, wet and wonderful!

Water, colors, mud and more are coming to the Thai capital this week. After being kept under wraps during the pandemic, the Songkran festival is making a daring comeback in Bangkok with an international fiesta, street food and parties,

To make it the best Songkran yet, Bangkok will celebrate the Songkran Festival in full force, complete with Holi from India, South Korea’s Mud Festival, Setsubun from Japan and China’s Po Shui Jie. The fiesta, which promises plenty of dirt and fun, will be taking place at Sam Yan (Chula Soi 5) – the city’s up-and-coming neighborhood – from April 13 to 15. Continued …

Khao San Road expects 30,000 tourists during Songkran

Following years of Songkran party cancellations due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Songkran is back in Thailand.

And nowhere will tourists get a better bang for their buck than on Khao San Road, the famed tourist district of Bangkok. That is the aim of Thai officials organizing safety and emergency procedures. Continued …

Phuket expects big holiday boost

Visitors to Phuket during the Songkran Festival are expected to exceed those of 2019, with numbers 30% higher than before the pandemic, while authorities say local tourism will generate 4.5 billion baht in revenue.

Lertchai Wangtrakuldee, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office, said on Monday that over 100,000 hotel rooms in Phuket had been booked for Songkran week — about 85% of room vacancies. Continued …

Tourists Flock to Islands in Phang Nga During Songkran Festival

Lots of Thai and foreign tourists are visiting islands in Phang Nga during the Songkran festival.

The president of the Phang Nga Tourism Assn., Lertsak Pomklin, said more domestic Thai tourists are visiting islands in Phang Nga such as Similan Island and Surin Island. Most of them are from Bangkok and Phuket but some are from the northern part of Thailand who are escaping from dust pollution. Continued …

Thailand prepares for 14,000+ flights this Songkran

Thailand will facilitate 14,180 domestic and international flights over the Songkran holidays, from today until April 17, according to the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai). This represents a 66% increase in flights compared with the same period last year.

On average, there will be 2,026 flights per day, Aerothai President Nopposit Chakrapitak revealed yesterday. He said Thailand’s aviation industry is heading in a positive direction, with an average of 2,000 flights per day, which will increase to 2,026 per day during the Thai New Year holidays. Continued …

Bangkok among 2023’s top three destinations for backpackers

With approximately 44 million backpacking trips being taken each year, Cotswold Outdoor reveals the best 2023 destinations for backpackers, looking at the average likely costs, along with crime rates, mobile internet speeds and the number of couch surf hosts and free attractions available.

Yerevan, Baku and Bangkok have been revealed as the overall top three destinations for backpackers in 2023, and Hanoi and Seoul complete the top five. Continued …

Kazakhstani tourist arrested for rampage on southern Thailand beach

Police arrested a Kazakhstani tourist for attacking people and destroying property yesterday at Haad Rin Beach in Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani province, southern Thailand.

As officers approached to try and detain the tourist, he jumped off Haad Rin Pier and sat on a rock in the middle of the sea to try and escape arrest, where he vigorously flailed his arms around and shouted in Russian. Continued …

Nok Air scraps only route to Mae Hong Son in northern Thailand

Nok Air flights between Bangkok and Mae Hong Son Airport in northern Thailand will be discontinued on April 19. The province, home to the popular backpacker town Pai, will only be accessible by road since Nok Air was the only airline servicing the airport commercially.

The airline said they can no longer fly the Don Mueang–Mae Hong Son route because they are scrapping their fleet of Q400 aircraft (80-seat turboprops) and swapping them for Boeing 787-800 jets (189 seaters). Continued … 

Essential guide to staying healthy in Thailand’s climate

Thailand’s climate, a defining feature of this Southeast Asian gem, is predominantly tropical, marked by hot temperatures and high humidity levels throughout the year. The country’s geographical location near the equator, coupled with the influence of monsoon winds, contributes to the distinct weather patterns that characterize Thailand’s climate.

Known for its intense heat and humidity, Thailand’s climate can be dangerous for both locals and visitors who aren’t aware of the risks. The hot weather can cause many health problems, making it important to understand the challenges of living in a tropical climate. Continued …

Best Thai restaurants in Bangkok for authentic Thai food

Thai food, renowned for its exquisite balance of flavors and aromatic complexity, has captured the hearts and taste buds of foodies worldwide. When it comes to enjoying authentic Thai cuisine, there is no better place to indulge than in the bustling city of Bangkok. Home to an array of exceptional dining establishments, the city offers a diverse culinary landscape just waiting to be explored.

From humble street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, Bangkok caters to every palate and preference. As you embark on a gastronomic adventure in search of the best Thai restaurants in Bangkok, prepare to be captivated by the delightful burst of flavors and the artful presentation that epitomize Thailand’s rich culinary heritage. Continued …

Vietnam capital struggles with severe air pollution

Hanoi experienced severe air pollution on Monday as the air quality index (AQI) in the Vietnamese capital climbed to 161, breaching the “unhealthy” level. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting