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Friday’s news-Dec 15

Today’s news: Retire In Style From $1,200 A Month/Hua Hin, PEA tackle tangled cables/Banyan renames two developments/PISA score is wake-up call/Pattaya Will Tackle PM2.5/E-cigarette network busted/Tiger conservation gains ground/Economy: Diversification key/Fret about deflation?/Bt4 trillion revenue from soft power/Digital Wallet Could Boost Growth/Climate-saving innovations/EV production ramped up/Maserati to join EV market/Energy giant shifts to electric/Tourism: Why Chinese tourists snub Thailand/Worried about safety/Revenue From Foreign Tourists/Boosted by ‘repeat travelers’/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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3 Exotic Havens Where You Can Retire In Style From $1,200 A Month

For most people thinking about retirement, either at home or overseas, budget is a key factor.

In my more than 30 years of traversing the globe scouting out retirement havens I’ve found hundreds of places that are friendly on the pocketbook but don’t tick all the other boxes on my checklist… factors like safety, quality health care, entertainment options, welcoming community, and solid infrastructure. Continued …

Hua Hin, PEA tackle tangled cable mess

Hua Hin municipality, in collaboration with the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), has launched a project to organize and remove disused telecommunications lines in the city.

This project was initiated in response to numerous complaints regarding the disorganized state of communication lines in the district, posing risks to both life and property. Continued …

Banyan Hua Hin renames two housing developments

Banyan Hua Hin, the healthy active lifestyle community nestled along Thailand’s gulf coast, has announced a rebranding initiative to redefine its project components.

The rebranding unveils the following transformations: Continued …

PISA score is wake-up call for Thailand’s failing education system

Thailand’s latest PISA scores are the lowest in more than two decades since the country joined the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) in the early 2000s.

The poor performance offers more proof that Thailand is struggling with a weak educational system, outdated curriculum and inefficient use of resources, the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) said. Continued …

Pattaya City Leaders Say They Will Seriously Tackle PM2.5 Dust Issue

Pattaya Deputy Mayor Manote Nongyai convened a meeting yesterday at City Hall to address concerns surrounding the PM2.5 dust levels. Joining him were the head of the Pattaya Environmental Office, Sanya Tubtimsri, and other relevant officials.

According to Manote, the average PM 2.5 levels reported in Pattaya still fall within the orange or yellow category, which indicate moderate air quality. Continued …

E-cigarette distribution network in Bangkok busted

A significant e-cigarette distribution network has been dismantled by the police, following a series of raids in Bangkok. The leader of the network, 32-year-old Jenkij Hom-aroon, was apprehended during the operation that occurred yesterday.

The Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) spearheaded the operation, acting on information related to the Iqos Thailand FanClub. This Facebook group was identified as the platform used by the network to sell and market e-cigarette modules and cartridges online. Continued …

Tiger conservation gains ground, but snares remain a problem

There is a sense of urgency in tiger conservation. At the turn of the 20th century, tigers were on the brink of extinction, with the global population dropping from approximately 100,000 to as low as 3,200 in 2010.

In 2010, the leaders of 13 tiger range countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, Thailand, and Vietnam, assembled at an International Tiger Summit in St Petersburg, Russia, and committed to double the number of wild tigers across their geographical area by 2022. Continued …

Diversification key to growing Thai economy

As Thailand navigates through the economic challenges of 2023 and looks ahead to 2024, the government faces a critical task in steering the nation toward sustainable growth and stability.

The World Bank’s recently revised its forecast for Thailand with the body downgrading its forecast for Thailand’s economic growth in 2023 to 2.5% from the previous estimate of 3.4%, which was made in October. The World Bank, additionally, revised its forecast for 2024 to 3.2% from the earlier projection of 3.5%.which points to a tempered growth in Thailand’s economy. Continued …

Should Thailand fret about deflation?

Thailand registered a second consecutive monthly decline in headline inflation, reaching its lowest level in 33 months in November, while the Commerce Ministry recently predicted the rate will decelerate again in December.

These developments have raised concerns about heightened risks of both an economic slowdown and deflation in Thailand. Continued …

Bt4 trillion revenue, 20 million jobs from soft power targeted

The government aims to create 20 million new jobs and 4 trillion baht in revenue for Thais through its soft power promotion policy, Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said on Thursday.

“We hope that soft power would serve as an important mechanism in generating income for Thais and boosting the country’s economic development,” he said. Continued …

Thailand’s Digital Wallet Scheme Could Boost Near-Term Growth, Says World Bank

The World Bank cut Thailand’s economic growth outlook to 2.5% this year from its forecast of 3.4% in October, before improving to 3.2% next year. It also mentioned the digital wallet program of the new government that could enhance the short-team economic activity.

According to Fabrizio Zarcone, World Bank country manager for Thailand, the Thai economic growth is projected to pick up to 3.2% in 2024 from 2.5% this year, supported by a recovery in tourism, goods exports and sustained private consumption. Continued …

Top Thai firms unveil their climate-saving innovations at Sustainability Forum

Five leading Thai corporations have offered a glimpse of a greener future, showcasing their groundbreaking initiatives at the “Sustainability Forum 2024” in Bangkok on Thursday.

Leading public and private organizations unveiled innovations designed to drive Thailand toward its sustainability goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. Continued …

EV production target ramped up for 2024

Thai authorities want next year’s electric vehicle (EV) production capacity to reach 359,000 units based on investment of 39.5 billion baht, say industrial officials.

The state EV policy and investment incentive packages should help increase production, said the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE). Continued …

Maserati to join Thai EV market

Italian luxury car manufacturer Maserati plans to join the crowded Thai electric vehicle market by launching two battery EV models here next year, with a focus on LGBTQIA2S+ customers.

Grecale Folgore and GranTurismo will be introduced to Thai enthusiasts in the second half of 2024, the company said. The battery-operated Grecale is its best-selling model. Continued …

Thailand’s energy giant shifts to electric

Thai conglomerate PTT has ventured into lithium-ion battery production to bolster its EV brand Neta and tap into the expanding Thai green car market.

A Rayong-based plant, co-owned by NV Gotion, a joint venture between PTT subsidiary Nuovo Plus and Chinese EV battery maker Gotion Hitech, initiated production with a capacity of 2 gigawatt-hours per year. Anticipated expansion to 8 GW-hours is aimed to match increasing demand. Continued …

Why Chinese tourists snub Thailand: New favorites revealed

Thailand, hopeful for a Chinese tourism resurgence post-pandemic, faces an unexpected plot twist as a surge of Taiwanese visitors, in particular, reshapes the narrative. Saichon Chounchou now handles a 20-person group of Taiwanese tourists.

“Now my clients are Taiwanese. They are regular clients and generate revenue for many local communities as opposed to many Chinese on a zero-dollar tour.” Continued …

Chinese tourists worried about safety

Tourism operators in China say safety remains the major concern for Thailand tour packages, predicting trips here might reach the pre-pandemic level by 2025.

Whenever negative events happen in Thailand, such as the Siam Paragon shooting or the recent shooting in Pathum Thani stadium, bookings immediately drop, as the news spreads quickly on Chinese social media, said Yu Ping, of Shanghai Wan Guo International Travel Service, a wholesale tour operator. Continued …

Revenue 2023 From Foreign Tourists Exceeds 1 Trillion Baht

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced that the number of foreign tourists arriving in Thailand has reached 25.7 million since Jan. 1, 2023, generating revenue of 1,098,082 million baht, or 31.320 billion U.S. dollars. The Jay Chou concert in December also pushed Chinese tourists to the top spot.

During Dec. 4–10, there were 655,653 foreign tourists arriving in Thailand, an increase of 61,619 people, or 10.37%, from the previous week. The average daily number of foreign tourists arriving in Thailand was 93,665 people. Continued …

Thailand tourism to be boosted by ‘repeat travelers’

Thailand’s tourism will be boosted by “repeat travelers”, as more than a quarter (28%) of travelers who visited Thailand during 2023 said they intend to return over the next 12 months, according to a Visa study.

The 2023 edition of the Global Travel Intentions Study 1, the largest and longest-running global consumer insights study to be undertaken by Visa, found that travelers likely to revisit in the next 12 months come from Malaysia (42%), Singapore (41%), Philippines (28%), mainland China (25%), and Vietnam (22%). Continued …

Grip of OPEC+ on oil market loosening

Slowing demand growth and rising U.S. crude production will make it more difficult for OPEC+ to continue to prop up prices, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Thursday. Continued …

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Wednesday’s news-Nov 22

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Today’s news: Anantasila hosts two events/Long boat races/World Run Thailand Series Sunday/Amateur Charity Golf Classic/Hua Hin Train Station/Dry and warmer for most of Thailand/Rising depression in Thailand/LGBTQ couples in Thailand/Bangkok battles rising air pollution/Thai abbot disappears with more than 4.7M baht/End monopoly for clean energy/Jay Fai has instant noodles line/Economy: Residential recovery next year/Factors that could shoot down digital wallet/Production of EVs to start next year/Microsoft’s strategic move/Will Germany invest in land bridge?/The future of urban living/Tourism: TAT urges expats to travel/Thailand’s recipe for global wow!/Wellness sector to survive/Thailand Experience: Phitsanulok’s historic Loy Krathong/Khao hang: Sakon Nakhon’s specialty/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Anantasila Beach Resort hosting two month-long events in November

Anantasila Beach Resort Hua Hin is hosting two month-long events, promising both local and international visitors a unique experience.

The first is the Contento Beach Anantasila, a pop-up collaboration with The Beach at Anantasila. This event sees the menu from Bangkok’s flagship Contento restaurant making its way to Hua Hin’s shores. Attendees can look forward to indulging in top-tier Italian comfort food, with the added ambience of a supper club right on the sandy beach. Continued …

Long boat races on Pranburi River Sunday

A longboat racing event will take place on Pranburi River on Sunday, following the longboat races on the Kao Tao Reservoir a week earlier. Teams from all over Thailand are expected to participate.

For inquiries, call 0-3263-1662.

Pak Nam Pran to host Allianz Ayudhya World Run Thailand Series Sunday

The Allianz Ayudhya World Run Thailand Series 2023 will be held near Hua Hin Sunday.

The event takes place over two days, with a mini-concert and bib collection taking place on Nov. 25 ahead of the actual race on Nov. 26. The run will see participants compete over distances of 10km or 21.1km. Continued …

Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade returns Dec 15-17

The Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade is set to make a return for its 21st edition, aiming to boost tourism in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan regions.

The event was officially announced yesterday at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin in Cha Am. Continued …

Hua Hin Train Station gears up for inaugural joyride

It’s full steam ahead for the historic Hua Hin Train Station as it readies itself for its inaugural journey next month.

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) announced it’s all aboard the ticketing express at the opening of the new elevated station, which is on track for partial operations on Monday, Dec. 11. Continued …

Dry and warmer for most of Thailand, heavy rain for the south

Temperatures will rise by 1-2 degrees Celsius in most of the country today as the cold air mass over Thailand continues to weaken.

The northeast monsoon, which is currently affecting the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region, will bring heavy rain to some parts of southern Thailand. The seas in the lower Gulf of Thailand will be choppy with waves 1-2 meters high. Continued …

Top mental health hospital warns of rising depression in Thailand

One of Thailand’s top mental health hospitals has warned that lifestyle stress is behind a rise in the number of patients seeking treatment for depression.

Bangkok Mental Health Hospital (BMHH) said depression was the most common complaint among the estimated 1,000 patients it treated over the three months up to November. The second highest complaint was anxiety, followed by high stress, panic attacks, and bipolar disorder, the hospital added. Continued …

LGBTQ couples in Thailand to soon have equal legal rights in marriage

The Cabinet on Tuesday endorsed a bill amending the Civil and Commercial Code, so same-sex couples can marry and have the same legal protections and privileges as straight couples.

Deputy government spokesman Karom Polpornklang said the amendment bill proposed by the Justice Ministry seeks to allow same-sex marriage with full legal rights. It will also allow members of the LGBTQ community to build families and ensure both spouses have equal rights. Continued …

Bangkok battles rising air pollution as PM2.5 dust levels exceed safe standards

Air pollution in Bangkok has recently spiked, with 17 locations across the city registering levels of PM2.5 dust particles that exceed safe standards.

The most severe pollution was recorded at the intersection of Mahajai and Phet Kasem 81 in Nong Khaem district, where the PM2.5 level reached 47 micrograms per cubic meter today. The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center revealed that the city’s average PM2.5 level was 33.1 micrograms per cubic meter. Continued … 

Thai abbot disappears from temple with more than 4.7 million baht

A Thai abbot belonging to a temple in the central province of Suphan Buri has disappeared, taking with him a sum of 717,186 baht contributed by local donors and over 4 million baht borrowed from nearly 40 individuals in the temple’s vicinity.

The temple’s finance officer, Chalong Wongchan, filed a complaint with the Mueang Suphan Buri Police Station officers on monday. According to Chalong, the abbot left the temple saying that he would deposit the 717,186 baht donated by locals on Nov. 12 into the temple’s bank account. Continued … 

End monopoly for cheap, clean energy

If Thailand hopes to honor its global pledge to mitigate climate change by becoming carbon neutral by 2050, there is one way to do it – electricity liberalization.

The “why” is obvious. The power sector is the country’s biggest carbon offender, generating over 42% of the country’s carbon emissions. The big question is how? Continued …

Bangkok street food icon Jay Fai has own instant noodles line now

Bangkok’s street food icon Jay Fai has gone the instant noodles route!

The award-winning Street Food: Asia star collaborated with South Korean instant noodles brand Nongshim to release a special Tom Yum flavor, available in both “noodle soup” and dry “stir-fry” versions. Continued …

Experts see residential recovery next year

The residential market won’t recover until 2024 due to mortgage loan approval issues, particularly in the mass market, which has been affected by higher interest rates, according to property experts.

Surachet Kongcheep, managing director of property consultant Property DNA, said the market this year has been challenged by the issue of mortgage loan applications, despite developers’ efforts to assist home buyers in every possible way. Continued …

Factors that could shoot down 500-billion digital wallet borrowing bill

The government’s controversial digital wallet scheme is at risk from growing opposition to its 500-billion-baht funding plan.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who doubles as finance minister, has announced that his government will launch a bill to borrow 500 billion baht to finance the 10,000-baht handout scheme, due to start in May next year. Continued …

Production of EVs in Thailand to start next year

Thailand’s smart electronics and information technology (IT) industries are expected to grow rapidly next year as global electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers start production in the country, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

EV manufacturing should increase demand for electronics and IT products, which are crucial for EV assembly, said Director-general Warawan Chitaroon. Continued …

Microsoft’s strategic move to establish Thailand as Asia’s AI hub

Microsoft Thailand is set to establish the Land of Smiles as an artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Asia. This strategic move will involve the creation of an AI Center of Excellence and the development of a cloud data center region.

The Thai government, alongside Microsoft, the U.S. tech giant, inked a memorandum of understanding to advance a digital-first, AI-oriented country on Nov. 15. This took place during Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s attendance at the APEC leaders’ meeting in San Francisco. Continued …

Will Germany invest in Thailand’s ‘land bridge’ project?

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the country’s self-styled chief “salesman”, has been shuttling between major capitals and in and out of meetings with ambassadors since he entered office in August. All to sell the idea of a vast “land bridge” connecting Thailand’s eastern and western coasts.

The project is designed to provide a new trade route between the Indian and Pacific oceans, bypassing the Malacca Strait, one of the world’s most vital and congested sea corridors. Continued …

A glimpse into the future of urban living

A range of innovative technologies for a smart city will be presented during Thailand Smart City Expo 2023, which will take place at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center’s Hall 3-4, Ratchadaphisek Road, daily from 10am to 6pm from today to Friday.

Held for the second year by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency in collaboration with NCC Management and Development, the expo will bring knowledge and understanding about the development of a smart city, with the aim to help push 36 areas in 25 provinces under the Smart City plan. Continued …

TAT urges expats to travel and boost year-end tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched a new campaign to boost travel over the upcoming cool season and encourage expatriates living in Thailand to visit more of the country.

Dubbed the “Amazing Thailand Expat Privileges” campaign, the promotion offers up to 80% discounts on a variety of services, including accommodation, restaurants, health and wellness, and travel. Continued …

Soft power: From tunes to tom yam, Thailand’s recipe for global wow!

The concept of “soft power” took center stage during Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s tenure and has since become the government’s focal point.

However, despite official announcements, the actual implementation of “soft power” initiatives seems to be somewhat limited. Yet, it features significantly in the election campaigns of several political parties, especially Pheu Thai. Continued …

Wellness sector to survive global woes

The global economic slowdown and geopolitical conflicts will not affect high-spending guests in Thailand’s wellness sector, according to MSpa International, a spa and wellness arm of Minor Hotels. Continued …

Phitsanulok bursts into color for historic Loy Krathong

Phitsanulok has begun gearing up for a spectacular Loy Krathong, as officials decorate landmarks and routes in one of Thailand’s oldest cities.

Roads in front of civic buildings and tourism landmarks have been decked with lanterns, flowers and plants. The festive display is brightest at the Mitrabhirom Pavilion in the central park, and the King Rama I monument in Nai Muang. Continued …

Khao hang: Sakon Nakhon’s specialty that’s rich in nutrients

Khao hang, or GABA rice, is a specialty of the northeastern province of Sakon Nakhon, as the method to maintain the grains’ nutritional benefits has been preserved for more than 200 years.

Among the nutrients, gamma-aminobutyric acid or GABA helps reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol, and decreases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. Manganese, meanwhile, helps reduce the risk of cancer. Continued …

Israeli Cabinet OKs Hamas ceasefire, frees 50 hostages

Israel’s Cabinet has approved a ceasefire deal with the Hamas militant group that would bring a temporary halt to a devastating war that has stretched on for over six weeks. Under the deal, Hamas is to free 50 of the roughly 240 hostages it is holding in the Gaza Strip over a four-day period, the Israeli government said Wednesday. It said it would extend the lull by an additional day for every 10 hostages released. Continued …

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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, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Nov 7

Today’s news: Where to enjoy Loi Krathong/Thailand Open set for Hua Hin/Thailand on course for hottest, driest year/Dam plans threatens forest/Thai workers choose to stay in Israel/16 billion baht for climate change projects/Baht hits two-month high/New minimum wages by New Year/Government banks on ‘soft power’/Two Thai CEOs featured/Saudi Arabia investors for Thai EV sector/EVs and gas-powered vehicles/Provinces demand extended nightlife hours/Bangkok, 3 Key Tourist Provinces/Chiang Mai’s Yi Peng lantern festival/Sukhothai’s Loy Krathong magic/Guide To Travel Insurance/Thai AirAsia launches fly-thru flight/Video features Thailand’s ‘Royal Coast’/Videos of Thailand’s ‘floating train’/$15 Million To Make Pad Thai a Global Sensation/Links: Calendar of events/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Where to enjoy Loi Krathong festivities in Hua Hin

At the end of the month, people in Hua Hin and across Thailand will gather at lakes, rivers, canals, and beaches to participate in Loi Krathong and pay respect to the goddess of water.

In Thai, the word loi means “float” and krathong means “container, boat or vessel”. Krathongs decorated with candles and flowers will be floated on the water, as a way to rid oneself of bad luck and negative feelings, and to bring good luck and positive feelings.

Thailand Open set for Arena Hua Hin in January

Hua Hin will host the Thailand Open 2024 next January at the Arena Hua Hin.

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) International Series Tournament returns for its latest edition, offering a prize pool of $300,000 USD.

The tournament, a WTA 250 event, will commence with qualifying rounds slated for Jan. 27-28, followed by the main draw competition running from Jan. 29 to Feb. 4.

Thailand on course for hottest and driest year: climate expert

A climate change expert has warned that Thailand is on course to experience its “hottest and driest year” on record in 2024.

Dr. Seri Suparatit, an expert on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), forecast an unusually warm cool season (November-February) for the country followed by extreme heat in April. Average temperatures in the hot season would be 1.5C higher than normal, he said. Continued …

Activists say dam plans threatens forest

Conservationists have opposed a plan to build seven dams in Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri, saying the project will devastate 16,000 rai of land in the Dong Phaya Yen-Khao Yai forest area.

Ornyupa Sangkaman, secretary-general of the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation, expressed grave concern that many trees in the forest would be lost if the dam projects proceed. Continued …

Over 20,000 Thai workers choose to stay in Israel amid escalating conflict

Despite the escalating conflict in Israel, over 20,000 Thai workers have opted to remain, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry continues to commit itself to facilitating the return of those wishing to leave. Before the occurrence of the cross-border raids by Hamas forces on Oct. 7, approximately 30,000 Thai citizens were working in Israel.

However, the number of Thai workers seeking to return home has significantly dwindled in recent days, which led to the closure of the coordination center at the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv. The last few workers who registered for repatriation landed in Thailand the previous day. Continued …

Germany grants 16 billion baht to Thailand for climate change projects

Thailand is set to receive a significant contribution of 422 million euros (16 billion baht) from Germany, intended to fund various projects addressing climate change impacts. The announcement was made by Ernst Reichel, the German ambassador to Thailand, during a press briefing yesterday.

Reichel, who assumed his diplomatic role two months prior, underscored that climate change mitigation is a prime concern for Germany. He noted that both Germany and Thailand have experienced first-hand the repercussions of climate change, with dry summers, violent storms, and severe flooding becoming increasingly frequent. Continued …

Baht hits two-month high

The baht traded at a two-month high on Monday and is expected to remain strong until year-end, as the market considers whether the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates sooner than previously forecast in 2024, say analysts.

Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research) said the baht traded in a range of 35.45-35.47 to the dollar on Monday morning, easing from a two-month high of 35.41 baht last Friday. Continued …

New minimum wages to come into force by New Year

New minimum wages for Thailand will be announced in December, but the rates will be less than 400 baht per day, Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said Monday.

He said that the new wages will vary from one province to another, depending on the economic situation and cost of living in each. Continued …

Government banks on ‘soft power’ to boost Thai economy

The government has announced a plan to use so-called soft power to help generate annual revenue of about 4 trillion baht over the next four years through the establishment of a Thailand Creative Content Agency.

The government aims to train 20 million people, develop 11 creative industries, and promote soft power globally in collaboration with Chulalongkorn University’s Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration and the Ministry of Culture. Continued …

Two Thai CEOs featured on Forbes Asia’s Power Businesswomen list

Forbes today unveiled its 2023 Asia’s Power Businesswomen list, honoring 20 successful female leaders across the Asia-Pacific region, who operate in a broad range of industries, including finance and banking, property, technology and commodities.

All 20 women highlighted this year are newcomers, adding to Forbes Asia’s network of outstanding businesswomen in the Asia-Pacific region. They have been selected for their achievements and track records as business leaders. Continued …

BOI eyes Saudi Arabia investors for Thai EV sector

Thailand has recently held detailed discussions with Saudi Arabia regarding economic cooperation and investments in various sectors.

The collaboration includes efforts to drive the electric vehicle (EV) industry, a sector in which Saudi Arabia is committed, according to the Board of Investment (BOI) Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi, who is also a member and secretary of the National Electric Vehicle Policy Board (EV Board). Continued …

Thailand wants it both ways: EVs and gas-powered vehicles

The government of Thailand is pushing for a dual-track approach to vehicle manufacturing, fostering the production of both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated his desire for Thailand to be a significant center of ICE production, even as the nation aims to become a hub for BEV manufacturing. He is due to clarify this dual support for ICE and BEV production with Japanese authorities in December. Continued …

Other provinces demand extended nightlife hours

With nightlife venues in Phuket, Chon Buri, Bangkok and Chiang Mai being granted extended opening hours, other provinces want to do the same. From Dec. 15, bars and clubs in four popular tourism provinces can remain open until 4am (previously 2am) for a trial period. (Alcohol sales, however, have not been extended to 4am.)

The move is one of several introduced by PM Srettha Thavisin, in a bid to boost Thailand’s economy and the tourism sector. It is not yet known how long the trial will last and if or when it will be extended nationwide. Continued …

Only Night Venues In Bangkok, 3 Key Tourist Provinces To Stay Open Until 4am

Entertainment venues to be legally allowed to open until 4am will only refer to those in Bangkok and three provinces widely known as major tourist spots and nowhere else in an initial stage, said Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul yesterday.

The planned extension in the opening hours for these entertainment venues in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chonburi and Phuket would likely be effective as of Dec.15 at a height of the country’s tourist season, while those in all other provinces will not yet be initially provided such leniency, Anutin said. Continued …

Pranburi’s abandoned temple complex

Wat Huay Plap Wararam, known locally as the “abandoned temple”, features a strikingly large reclining Buddha and a replication of Luang Pu Thuad, a revered monk, alongside the prominent reclining Buddha statue. The temple also features a network of chambers which stand empty and are open for exploring. The temple was to become a Dharma practice site and monks’ residence linked to Wat Khao Tao, but due to the pandemic the construction of the temple came to a halt. Map

Chinese tourists are returning – but not to Thailand

For Chinese tourists in Bangkok, 76 Garage, an open-air restaurant on the northern outskirts of the Thai capital, has long been near the top of the list of places to visit. And they go there not for the food, but the waiters.

In the middle of the restaurant is a swimming pool. The evening reaches its highlight when the waiters, all fit young men, strip down to their shorts and wade into the pool, offering to carry the diners for a photo op and a tip. Continued …

Chiang Mai lights fuse for Yi Peng lantern festival

Chiang Mai skies and waterways will light up with a galaxy of floating lanterns from Nov. 26-28, as the north celebrates the Loy Krathong festival in its own unique way.

Themed “Night of The River – Path of Culture”, the Yi Peng festival will feature a krathong procession competition for the royal trophy, a parade, and elaborate decorations throughout the city. Continued … 

Sukhothai to unveil 10 days of Loy Krathong magic from Nov 18

Thailand’s historical province of Sukhothai is getting ready to host its annual attraction, the traditional Loy Krathong festival, highlighting its history as the former capital of Thailand.

The “Loy Krathong Pao Tien Len Fai” festival is scheduled to take place from Nov. 18-27 at Wat Mahathat within the Sukhothai Historical Park, said Suchart Teekasuk, the province’s governor. This marks the 46th edition of the event. Continued …

Guide To Travel Insurance For Thailand

Millions of tourists travel to Thailand every year for its centuries-old culture, white sandy beaches, delicious food, floating markets, world-class hotels and vibrant nightlife.

For people thinking of heading to Thailand in the near future, it makes sense to invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers you for all eventualities. Continued …

Thai AirAsia launches fly-thru flight to boost lesser-visited provinces

Thai AirAsia has launched a new “fly-thru” service connecting Phuket to Don Mueang Airport and Phitsanulok. The aim is to encourage foreign tourists visiting Phuket to explore and discover lesser-visited provinces like Phitsanulok and other areas in the lower northern region of Thailand.

Sasiwan Siphrom, the president of the Tourism Council of the Lower Northern Provinces, highlighted that in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and travel agencies, studies have shown that this connecting flight between Phuket and Phitsanulok has the potential to significantly boost tourism in the lower northern provinces and the surrounding areas. Continued … 

Video features Thailand’s ‘Royal Coast’

“Holiday” by “The Isan Project” a new song and video is being launched today by former Tourism and Sports Minister Weerasak Kowsurat. The video features a young couple on a motorcycle trip on The Royal Coast of Thailand, starting on Koh Talu Island and finishing at Wat Tham Chaeng in Cha Am. The couple visit beach after beach, also stopping at Wat Thang Sai, Pranburi Dam, Monsoon Valley Vineyard and a host of other locations. Video 

Two videos of Thailand’s ‘floating train’

Railway adventures are gaining popularity in the kingdom, with tourists seeking off-the-beaten-track travel experiences away from the hordes visiting temples and beaches. Saturday was the State Railway of Thailand’s first Bangkok to Pasak Jolasid Dam service “Rot Fai Loi Nam” marking the end of the rainy season. Hundreds of bleary-eyed passengers boarded the train at Bangkok’s century-old Hua Lamphong Station before sunrise.

Lotus ponds, jungles, temples and rice paddies zipped by as tourists in third class hung out the window and took pictures while enjoying the natural air conditioning. Three and a half hours after chugging out of Bangkok, the refurbished Japanese train pulling more than a dozen carriages crossed the Pasak Jolasid reservoir over a series of viaducts and stopped for 20 minutes of selfie time. For most of the year, cattle graze underneath the bridge, but from October to January, the water is high on both sides, which gives the impression that the train is floating on water. Video #1; video #2

How Thailand Spent $15 Million To Make Pad Thai a Global Sensation

Pad Thai is a popular Thai dish made with stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, and a flavorful sauce, but did you know that the Thai goverment once spent $15 million to make it popular.

Unless you’re an aficionado or have had the opportunity to visit, there are a few likely suspects that probably spring to mind when you think about Thai food. Perhaps its Khao Soi, the noodle curry dish that is more often linked to Burmese cuisine. Or maybe Som Tam, the tangy raw papaya salad that plays into all the favorite flavors of the Indian palate. But more likely, it’s Pad Thai, the simple peanut-driven noodle dish that’s won the hearts of diners the world over. But what if we told you that Pad Thai isn’t even really a true Thai dish at all? Continued …

Israel-Hamas conflict drives price of gold to a new high

The Israel-Hamas conflict might have driven the price of gold to an all-time high but is it still a safe investment and should investors continue to invest in it? With no resolution to the war in sight and the price of gold setting historical records, investors have understandably turned to the precious metal to diversify their investments. Continued …

Israel asks India for 100,000 workers to replace Palestinians amid Gaza war

The Israeli Builders Assn. has urged the government to allow companies to hire up to 100,000 Indian workers to replace an almost equal number of Palestinians who have lost their work permits amid the ongoing war between the Israeli military and Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

 

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