Tag Archives: syria

hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s News-March 25

March 25, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule through October/
Warmer summer this year after protracted cool season/
Fumes from forest fires blanket Mae Hong Son in dangerous, blinding haze/
Chiang Rai closes national park as fires from Laos ravage forest/
Italian businessman on motorcycle taxi impaled by forklift/
80-year-old woman survives floating 3 kilometers down Nan River/
Japan voted top sustainable country, Thailand ranked fifth/
Thailand now world’s 4th biggest exporter of pet food/
Tourism: Russians top list of crimes by foreigners in Phuket/Fake news and disinformation being stoked in China against visiting Thailand/Robust Phuket tourism numbers in Q4 2022 to lead to recovery by year-end/Tourism to keep Phuket property market hot for years/THAI cancels flights to Frankfurt and Munich from March 26-27/
International: Cat slaughterhouse shut down in Vietnam, 197 cats saved/Humanity must chart new course on water use: UN chief/14 dead in US strikes on Syria after drone kills American contractor/
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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule through October

Warmer summer this year after protracted cool season

The temperature will be 1 degree Celsius higher on average this summer than last year, according to the Meteorological Department.

Department Director-general Chomparee Chompurat said the hottest weather this week was detected in the North, in Phetchabun’s Muang district, where it peaked at 41.5°C on Thursday. Closer to Bangkok, the highest temperature was recorded in Pathum Thani’s Khlong Luang district, at 38.5°C. Continued …

Fumes from forest fires blanket Mae Hong Son in dangerous, blinding haze

Following days of hundreds of forest fires, visibility in Mae Hong Son province fell to 1.5 kilometers on Friday while PM2.5 air pollution rose to more than four times the safe level – 211 micrograms per cubic meter of air, officials said.

Satellite photos showed 197 fires in the province on Friday, down from 460 on Thursday, according to the Mae Hong Son center for operations to contain forest fires and PM2.5. Although the number of fires fell, air pollution worsened due to the accumulation of fumes. Continued …

Chiang Rai closes national park as fires from Laos ravage forest

Phu Chi Fa National Park in Chiang Rai has been closed to tourists after being ravaged by a forest fire that spread over the border from Laos.

Park chief Witthaya Buaphol issued the announcement on Thursday, saying the park in the northern province’s Thoeng district bordering Laos is closed to visitors until further notice. Continued …

Italian businessman on motorcycle taxi impaled by forklift

An Italian man died this morning after he was impaled by a forklift in Samut Prakan province, just south of Bangkok in central Thailand, near the factory where he worked as sales manager. He was riding a motorbike taxi when the incident happened.

At 10am, officers at Samrong Nuea Police Station were informed of a fatal collision between a motorcycle taxi and forklift at Soi Theparak 58 in Mueang district. Police rushed to the scene with Ruamkatanyu Foundation rescue workers. Continued …

80-year-old woman survives floating 3 kilometers down Nan River

An 80-year-old Thai woman fell into the Nan River in Pichit province, northern Thailand, and floated for 3 kilometers before she was rescued by a good Samaritan yesterday.

At 4pm, 61-year-old Bancha Simadua, the owner of a paint shop, was fishing in the Nan River near Wat Ratchachang Kwan when he suddenly saw a naked body float past him, which he assumed was a corpse. Continued …

Japan voted top sustainable country, Thailand ranked fifth

Japan has been praised by fellow Asian countries for its sustainability and conservation efforts in a new poll, with Thailand claiming fifth place.

Over 13,000 respondents from more than 10 countries participated in the Sustainable Impact Survey 2023 conducted by the online travel agency Agoda. The respondents were asked to rank countries based on their sustainability efforts, and they ranked their home countries highly for their conservation measures. Seven out of 11 markets gave their own country the highest rating, including Thailand, India, Vietnam, Australia, Korea, Indonesia, and Japan. Continued …

Thailand now world’s 4th biggest exporter of pet food

Thailand is now the No. 1 exporter of pet foods in ASEAN and the fourth-largest in the world after seeing 15% growth last year, said the Commerce Ministry on Friday.

The world’s top pet food exporter is the European Union, followed by the United States and China. Continued …

Russians top list of crimes by foreigners in Phuket

More than 180 foreigners have faced criminal charges in Phuket since the start of the year, with the top three offenders being nationals from Russia, France and the United Kingdom.

Phuket Gov. Narong Woonciew chaired an executive meeting with government agencies and consul-generals from 23 countries on Thursday to update them on cases involving foreigners on the island. Continued …

Fake news and disinformation being stoked in China against visiting Thailand

Thai officials in Bangkok and Beijing were scrambling on Thursday and Friday to contain a highly damaging viral campaign on Chinese social media actively discouraging people from visiting the kingdom. The sensational and outright false claims targeted potential Chinese holidaymakers.

They were warned of scams and being extorted by criminal gangs preying on unsuspecting visitors, with the widely debunked conspiracy theories of tourists being captured and subjected to organ harvesting being raised to scare off potential travelers to the kingdom, which has emerged as China’s favorite holiday destination now that the pandemic has finally ended there. Continued …

Robust Phuket tourism numbers in Q4 2022 to lead to recovery by year-end

Thailand’s leading resort island of Phuket’s post-pandemic tourism recovery has been headlined by a surge in Russian travelers in the high season. But the back story is how a spike in regional visitors from India, Malaysia, and Singapore set the stage in Q4 of last year that pushed hotels and the service sector back into action.

Data on Phuket hotel performance in C9 Hotelworks’ newly released Phuket Hotel Market Update 2023 shows how the industry escalated after Thailand lifted travel restrictions at the beginning of October 2022. The influx of tourists propelled market-wide occupancy for the year to 48%, up year-on-year from a COVID-19-impacted low of 8% in 2021. Continued …

Tourism to keep Phuket property market hot for years

The Phuket property market surge is expected to continue for at least two more years, buoyed by the strong growth of the tourism sector.

Phattanan Phisutvimol, president of the Phuket Real Estate Assn., said the key driver for the property market rebound was foreign buyers, particularly Russians fleeing the war and Germans escaping the energy crisis. Continued …

THAI cancels flights to Frankfurt and Munich from March 26-27

THAI Airways International has canceled flights to Frankfurt and Munich on March 26-27 due to the mass transit labor strikes in Germany.

Passengers booked on these flights should visit thaiairways.com for updates or call (66)23561111 for the THAI Contact Center (open 24 hours). Continued …

Cat slaughterhouse shut down in Vietnam, 197 cats saved

An industrial-scale cat slaughterhouse in the Dong Thap province of Vietnam, capable of slaughtering up to 500 cats a day, has ceased all operations following landmark intervention from the authorities. Continued …

Humanity must chart new course on water use: UN chief

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday delivered an urgent call for the world to modify and safeguard water resources to avert conflict and ensure future global prosperity. Continued …

14 dead in US strikes on Syria after drone kills American contractor

Fourteen pro-Iran fighters were killed in U.S. air strikes on Syria carried out in retaliation for a drone attack that killed an American and wounded six others, a war monitor said Friday. 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-Chiang Mai flight schedules

Book a flight

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

90-day online reporting

chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s News-Feb 11

February 11, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Thailand Pickleball Open Feb 16-19 at True Arena/
Give your lover shallots this Valentine’s Day, suggests PM/
Wine Pairing: How to Choose the Right Bottle to Drink With Your Favorite Foods/
44 Foreign Drivers Arrested in Patong with No Driving Licenses/
Muay Thai and Kun Khmer: a comparative overview/
Thailand, Malaysia unite to restore peace in deep South/
Chiang Mai tackles PM2.5 pollution with giant vacuum cleaner/
Salvaging the HTMS Sukhothai is costly and perilous, navy chief says/
Chuwit Kamolvisit: Thailand’s ‘super-pimp’ turned sensational whistle blower/
Solar D sees 100% revenue hike to Bt1 billion/
Amata, BGRIM to develop city in EEC/
Thailand Experience: Misty mornings and starry nights from Phayao’s Doi Phu Langka/Need to relax? Cannabis Thai Massage can soothe your mind, body, and soul/
International: First Thai team arrives in quake-hit Turkey/Quake death toll above 23,000 in Turkey, Syria/Do fewer shark bites mean fewer sharks?/
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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thailand Pickleball Open Feb 16-19 at True Arena

The 2023 Thailand Pickleball Open is set for Feb. 16-19 at True Arena Hua Hin. As many as 140 players from many international communities are expected, including from Hong Kong, UK, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, other European countries and Thailand.

Give your lover shallots this Valentine’s Day, suggests PM

The smell of red onion is in the air this Valentine’s Day in Thailand as Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha invites the public to send shallots to their lover instead of a red rose this year.

PM Prayut is pushing shallots as a symbol of love this V-day to support shallot farmers in Srisaket province in northeast Thailand.

The shallots grown by Srisaket farmers are specially marketed in Valentine’s Day packaging ready for you to present as a gift to your loved one. Continued …

Wine Pairing: How to Choose the Right Bottle to Drink With Your Favorite Foods

Despite all the deep cellars out there, most of the wine consumed is purchased on the same day that it is opened, and of that a very high percentage is uncorked and enjoyed within two hours of leaving the wine shop. That means there is an awful lot of last-minute decision making going on, much of it based on the food that it will be paired with.

The correct response to, “Can you pick up a bottle of wine on the way over?”, besides “Yes, of course,” should also be, “What’s for dinner?”

There are a few basics to pairing wine and food, and they go beyond the overly simplified “red with meat, white with seafood.” What is the taste profile of the food? Is it spicy? Is it sweet? Is it fatty? Is it lean? Continued …

44 Foreign Drivers Arrested in Patong with No Driving Licenses

Forty-four foreign drivers have been arrested in Patong for not having driving licenses.

The crackdown was launched last night after 20 French motorbike racers had been arrested after causing a public nuisance this week.

The Patong Police said that last night from 7:30pm to 10:30pm they arrested 39 foreign drivers for not wearing helmets, 44 with no driving license, and eight for jumping red lights. Continued …

Muay Thai and Kun Khmer: a comparative overview

Host Cambodia has dropped Muay Thai from disciplines for the 2023 SEA Games, and replaced it with its own version, Kun Khmer. This led to protests by Thailand that the host country had simply changed the name of the sport from Muay Thai to Kun Khmer.

Cambodia, however, argues that Kun Khmer is an ancient martial art, from which Muay Thai was born.

Thailand decided to boycott the Kun Khmer competition on grounds that the Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) has announced that boxing martial arts that involve the use of fists, knees and elbows must be called “muay” only. Continued …

Thailand, Malaysia unite to restore peace in deep South

Thailand and Malaysia on Friday agreed to work together to end decades of insurgency on the Thai side of their shared border.

Visiting Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met with Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan at a Bangkok hotel on Friday to discuss security issues involving the kingdom’s restive southern border region.

Both sides agreed to work together to end insurgent violence in the Muslim-majority provinces and pave the way for development in border areas, a source said. Continued …

Chiang Mai tackles PM2.5 pollution with giant vacuum cleaner

Thailand‘s Disaster Department is testing out a giant vacuum cleaner as a way to tackle the PM2.5 dust pollution problem that plagues the northern city of Chiang Mai every “burning season.”

Every year, farmers around Thailand send their forests and fields up in smoke because it’s the cheapest way to prepare to plant new crops, but causing PM2.5 levels to shoot upward. The problem is exacerbated by the lack of rain at this time of year.

Chiang Mai is especially affected because of the sheer volume of agricultural fires in northern Thailand sending dust floating into the city, which lies in a valley. Continued …

Salvaging the HTMS Sukhothai is costly and perilous, navy chief says

Salvaging the Sukhothai from the Gulf of Thailand could cost over 200 million baht, Royal Thai Navy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Choengchai Chomchoengpaet said on Friday.

The ship sank to a depth of about 50 meters and recovering it could cause damage that will make it more difficult to determine why it sank, the admiral said.

The navy is carefully selecting qualified contractors to salvage the vessel, Choengchai added. Continued …

Chuwit Kamolvisit: Thailand’s ‘super-pimp’ turned sensational whistle blower

Chuwit Kamolvisit has earned the reputation of an anti-corruption hero after repeatedly exposing police bribery and underground businesses linked to corrupt state officials.

Once a self-declared “super pimp”, Chuwit has evolved from a massage-parlor tycoon to become a politician, a convict, a TV talk-show host, and a crusader against Thailand’s chronic corruption.

Over recent months, he has been busy acting as whistle blower, producing evidence against Chinese triad gangs and the dishonest law enforcers helping them to thrive in Thailand. He also spoke out against senior police officers, accusing them of involvement in illegal online gambling. Continued …

Solar D sees 100% revenue hike to Bt1 billion

Solar D Corp., the distributor of the Tesla Powerwall energy storage system, expects its revenue to soar by 100% this year to 1 billion baht thanks to growing demand for solar power in Thailand from both the commercial and residential sectors.

The company predicts positive business prospects in the rooftop solar panel and energy storage business in the country because the government has a clear policy to support a shift toward renewable energy, said Sumrit Sitthiwaranuwong, managing director of Solar D.

“In 2022, the company recorded total revenue of around 500 million baht,” he said. Continued …

Amata, BGRIM to develop city in EEC

Industrial developer Amata Corp. has teamed with B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) to conduct a feasibility study on the construction of Amata European Smart City, expected to serve European companies investing in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

The companies plan to set up a joint venture to develop the project, set to be located on 200 rai of land in Amata City Chon Buri, said Vikrom Kromadit, chief executive of Amata Corp.

“Amata will hold a 60% share in the joint venture, with the remaining 40% funded by BGRIM,” he said. Continued …

Misty mornings and starry nights from Phayao’s Doi Phu Langka

Intrepid travelers now have a new destination from where they can enjoy a sea of morning mist and bright stars – the top of 1,720-meter-high Doi Phu Langka in Phayao province.

The mountaintop in the northern province’s Pong district is part of Tham Sakoen National Park, which spans 250 square meters across Phayao and Nan.

Doi Phu Langka is some 100 kilometers from Phayao town, with the last 12km covering the scenic PY4020 Road. Continued …

Need to relax? Cannabis Thai Massage can soothe your mind, body, and soul

Over the past few years, many people have turned to alternative therapies to help manage their physical and mental health. A popular one of these is Thai massage. It is a unique practice that has been around for centuries. Moreover, it’s thought to bring the body and mind into harmony, while also providing an array of medicinal benefits.

But, in recent times, the healing power of Thai massage has been given a new twist – the use of hemp oil.

Since the legalization of cannabis in Thailand last year, the country has opened up to new possibilities in the field of medicine and wellness. And one exciting development is the combination of Thai massage with the therapeutic properties of hemp oil. This article explores the benefits and potential of this unique approach to wellness and how it’s changing the game for Thai massage therapy. Continued …

First Thai team arrives in quake-hit Turkey

The first Thai rescue team arrived in Istanbul on Friday, while the Public Health Ministry announced its readiness to send an army medical team today, said the ministry’s deputy permanent secretary Dr. Narong Apikulwanich. Continued …

Quake death toll above 23,000 in Turkey, Syria

The death toll in Turkey and Syria from this week’s catastrophic earthquake surpassed 23,600 on Friday as relief organizations struggled to overcome an array of obstacles to deliver aid to survivors in both countries. Continued …

Do fewer shark bites mean fewer sharks?

Shark attacks worldwide fell in 2022, resulting in fewer shark bite incidents compared to the past decade. In 2020, travel restrictions and beach closures were thought to have resulted in fewer encounters between humans and sharks and fewer shark bites. Continued …

Click on imge above for more information

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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets

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.

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-Feb 10

February 10, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Hua Hin Smart City: To make Hua Hin smarter and safer/
Hua Hin Surf Festival to be held Feb 25-26/
Soi 19 park has new blue footpath/
Thai people are living longer/
Baht strength a risk to economy: Finance Minister/
Revenue Department to tax Youtubers, online vendors and influencers/
Ministry seeks help to stop illegal sugarcane harvest fires/
Hmong family murder arrests expected soon/
Pit bull attack leaves Thai man dead/
Railway bomb attack in southern Thailand injures 8 security officers/
Ex-conscript kills self after shooting on bus in Phuket, 2 injured/
Rabies outbreak in Northeast strikes 74/
Tourism: 200 million foreign arrivals by 2031? Really?/Foreign tourist arrivals in Southeast Asia in 2022/Hotel group says tourism must be priority/Travel tech company profiles emerging travel ‘tribes’/Rowdy Pattaya teens terrify tourists by throwing ping pong bombs/
Thailand Experience: Michelin Guide’s guide to Thailand’s best restaurants and eateries in 2023/Things to know about Thai culture/Where to stay, eat drink and shop in Chiang Mai/Advice & Tips For Money When Visiting Thailand/
International: More than 21,000 deaths so far in Turkey-Syria earthquakes/Zelensky’s triumphant European trip ruffles diplomatic feathers/Snow leopard shot wins wildlife photo award/
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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Hua Hin Smart City: To make Hua Hin smarter and safer

Hua Hin is set to be developed into a ‘Smart City’, in line with the Thai government’s plan to utilize modern technology and innovation in order to boost economic value and improve people’s quality of life.

One of the aims of the Hua Hin Smart City project is to make the city more liveable, by improving public services and creating new opportunities for residents.

This is being achieved through the deployment of smart city solutions such as smart street lighting, smart waste management, and smart transportation. Continued …

Hua Hin Surf Festival to be held Feb 25-26

The Hua Hin Surf Festival is set to take place on Feb. 25-26 at Khao Takiab beach.

This event will bring together surfers and beach enthusiasts to celebrate the surf culture, fun and entertainment over a weekend filled with competitions, food, live music and activities.

The event is being organized by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Khiri Khan office and Pineapple Surf Club. Continued …

Soi 19 park has new blue footpath

Thai people are living longer

There has been an increase in the longevity of Thai people over the past three decades, with men living six and a half years longer and women eight years more than in the 1980s, according to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

The latest census in 2018 showed that, on average, Thai men live to 72.2 years, compared to 65.6 in the 1980s, while Thai women, on average, live to 78.9 years, compared to 70.9 in the 1980s, the NESDC said. The average period of good health is 68 years for Thai men and 74 years for Thai women.

The main reasons for the loss of good health among Thais include road accidents, HIV and diabetes in younger people, and stroke, dementia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in older people, the NESDC said. Continued …

Baht strength a risk to economy: Finance Minister

The strengthening of the baht is a risk to Thailand’s economy at the moment, as it reduces export volumes, the finance minister said on Friday.

The business sector needs to hedge against foreign exchange risks, Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith told a ministry event.

The baht has gained about 2.7% against the dollar so far this year, becoming Asia’s second-best performing currency. Continued …

Revenue Department to tax Youtubers, online vendors and influencers

Youtubers, social media influencers and online vendors are to be taxed on advertising revenue, sales of merchandise or donations earned through their channels, according to Lawaron Saengsanit, director-general of the Revenue Department.

He said that the Revenue Department is to include these individuals in the tax system after it has succeeded in bringing over 200,000 people engaged in online businesses into the system, noting that individuals who have an income of a certain level also have a duty to pay taxes.

He said that the department will, however, use technology to make it convenient and less complicated for those who have earnings from online businesses to pay taxes. Continued …

Ministry seeks help to stop illegal sugarcane harvest fires

To help reduce air pollution, the Industry Ministry has asked two other ministries to help it prevent farmers from illegally burning their sugarcane fields before harvest, said Panuwat Triyangkulsr, the ministry’s deputy permanent secretary.

Many sugarcane farmers still burn their fields before harvest even though it can land them in jail. The traditional practice makes harvesting more convenient because fire burns the leaves off the cane. However, it creates air pollution.

Panuwat, who is also acting secretary-general of the Cane and Sugar Board Office, said he asked the two ministries to help because they play a crucial role in supervising the country. Continued …

Hmong family murder arrests expected soon

Police in the northwest province of Tak expect arrests soon in the case of the execution-style murder of a Hmong family of five.

It happened in Wang Chao district on farmland where ginger is grown. A mother and father were killed along with three children, one aged just months.

Police said they had interviewed 20 witnesses and people associated with the case. They fear those responsible would flee so were reluctant to release more details. Continued …

Pit bull attack leaves Thai man dead

A savage attack by a family’s pet pit bull dog in Nakhon Ratchasima resulted in the death of a former jockey who had tried to save his mother from attack.

The dog reportedly dragged him into its cage and ripped out his intestines. He died from blood loss in hospital.

There had been many warnings about the dog after it attacked more than 10 people over the years, but it had never turned on the family … until now. Continued …

Railway bomb attack in southern Thailand injures 8 security officers

A bomb attack at a railway in Narathiwat province in southern Thailand yesterday injured eight subdistrict security officers.

Officers at Rueso Police Station were informed that subdistrict security officers were injured by an explosion while on duty overseeing the safety of the railway line in the area of Duyae Village, Sao Or subdistrict, Rueso district.

Assailants planted improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on the side of the road and detonated the bombs when the security officers were walking past on the way back to their base. All eight officers were injured. Continued …

Ex-conscript kills self after shooting on bus in Phuket, 2 injured

The gunman who shot two passengers on a Phuket-Phattalung minibus this morning left a suicide note before taking his own life inside the vehicle. Reports indicate that the gunman was a former soldier with a mental health issue.

The gunman was identified as a 30-year-old former conscript soldier Nawin. He was reported to have a mental illness, but the details of his condition have not yet been reported. Continued …

Rabies outbreak in Northeast strikes 74

A rabies outbreak has been detected in some northeastern provinces, with 74 people reportedly contracting the disease so far, Dr. Taweechai Wisanuyothin, chief of the Disease Prevention and Control Office 9, said on Thursday.

Citing data from Thairabies.net from October to the start of this week, he said 67 people had tested positive in Surin and seven in Buri Ram.

All had previously been vaccinated against rabies. Continued …

200 million foreign arrivals by 2031? Really?

The government of Thailand is taking steps to upgrade at least four of its international airports to accommodate a projected increase in foreign tourist traffic.

Despite the current tourist numbers being around half of the average arrival numbers of 2019, the government is confident the tourists will start returning and says they expect 80 million tourists per year by 2027 – double the total arrivals in 2019, the last year before the pandemic.

Deputy government spokeswoman Traisulee Taisaranakul, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, has predicted that the number of foreign arrivals will reach pre-Covid levels by 2024, prompting the need for the expansion of these airports. This is also in line with the International Air Transport Assn.’s prediction that there will be roughly 200 million foreign arrivals in 2031 to Thailand.

The four major airport expansion projects are as follows: Continued …

Hotel group says tourism must be priority

The Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) has urged the next government to prioritize the tourism industry as a key economic driver, addressing the labor shortage, low level of safety and security, as well as sustainability.

Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, the THA president, said Thai tourism workers are in high demand in many countries where the industry has revived, including spa therapists and cruise workers, as many of them relocated for new jobs.

This situation amplified the labor shortage following the two-year pandemic shutdown, which caused a number of tourism workers to return to their hometowns permanently. Continued …

Travel tech company profiles emerging travel ‘tribes’

Global travelers will prioritize unique experiences, sustainability, and more technological innovation over the next 10 years, according to a study released by travel technology company Amadeus.

The study examined forces transforming travel, as well as emerging traveler traits, behaviors, and preferences, to pinpoint what travelers will want a decade from now, Karun Budhraja, Amadeus senior vice president for marketing in the Asia Pacific region, told a media briefing at the company’s Singapore office.

The study identifies four “Traveler Tribes” that will develop over the next decade and likely be dominant in 2033. Continued …

Rowdy Pattaya teens terrify tourists by throwing ping pong bombs

Arowdy crowd of Pattaya teens terrified tourists and residents by throwing ping pong bombs at Bali Hai Pier on Wednesday night. The incident is the latest case of trouble-making teens causing chaos in Pattaya, which is commonly known as Southeast Asia’s sin city.

Residents reported seeing a group of approximately 10 teenagers arrive on motorbikes and begin throwing the bombs, which created loud detonations that could be heard in the surrounding area.

Despite leaving the scene before the cops arrived, the explosions disturbed many people and left a large hole in the concrete in the area. Continued …

Michelin Guide’s guide to Thailand’s best restaurants and eateries in 2023

For 2023, the Michelin Guide in Thailand has extended its search for the best restaurants from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Phang-Nga, and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, to also include Nakhon Ratchasima, Udon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, and Khon Kaen as representative cities of the Isan region.

A marker of Thailand’s rise as a key culinary destination in the region, this year’s listing sees 441 entries from 361 entries last year, with the new guide now covering all four major regions of Thailand.

It is an interesting selection, with some surprising (but also some entirely unsurprising) newcomers. The announcement today follows the release of the Bib Gourmand List just last week, rounding out a must-visit list of both budget-friendly and fine dining restaurants for food lovers up and down the country.

Whether it’s a hearty Thai crab omelet or French fine dining that you prefer, read on for all the best restaurants and eateries that have been approved by the Michelin Guide Thailand 2023. Continued …

Things to know about Thai culture

Thailand’s culture is a mixture of traditions and religions that all come together to form a unique and vibrant society.

Here are a few things to know about Thai culture that will help anyone landing in the Land of Smiles get around and mix with the locals.

Family

Thai people typically consider family to be the most important aspect of their lives. As Thailand features a collectivistic society, most Thais are more respectful of the community as a whole. Continued …

Where to stay, eat drink and shop in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, lovingly known as Thailand’s “second city”, is a place where contemporary culture meets ancient tradition; a low-rise, wide spanning metropolis full of medieval architecture, hip live music venues and a deeply Buddhist population.

Founded in 1296, the city sits between mountains, jungle, river and rice fields, so is in close proximity to nature on all sides – with views of the mountains framing most west-facing streets. The medieval moat and walls mark out the perfectly squared old city, known for its exceptional food, beautiful temples and lovely inhabitants.

It’s a vibrant university town, plus a hub for yoga practitioners and remote workers, so the nightlife is vibrant and diverse; you’re just as likely find yourself at an EDM festival as at a Tibetan sound bath. Continued …

Advice & Tips For Money When Visiting Thailand

Thailand is a top travel destination for many people because it has it all: the frenetic appeal of Bangkok, the vast tropical forests, some of the greatest street cuisine in the world, and endless palm-fringed beaches.

Thailand will not let tourists down, no matter why they choose to travel there. This enchanting Asian country welcomes visitors with mesmerizing white sand beaches, vibrant cities, and world-famous culinary traditions. It has an interesting history and a unique, lovely, and hospitable culture.

However, with everything Thailand has to offer, tourists might feel confused about where to start or which tourist attractions they must see first. No matter what they choose, they have to pay for some activities, and this is why it is crucial to know some tips and have some advice about the conversion of money into Thai baht. Continued …

More than 21,000 deaths so far in Turkey-Syria earthquakes

Cold, hunger and despair gripped hundreds of thousands of people left homeless after the earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria three days ago as the death toll passed 21,000 on Thursday. Continued …

Zelensky’s triumphant European trip ruffles diplomatic feathers

The headline images were a triumph for all concerned: British and Belgian royal visits, a tank, a Paris dinner and a family photo with 27 applauding EU leaders. But behind the scenes, the tour by Ukraine’s war leader, President Volodymyr Zelensky, of European capitals was as much improvised as stage-managed and it triggered diplomatic jealousies. Continued …

Snow leopard shot wins wildlife photo award

The Natural History Museum announced that Sascha Fonesca’s striking image “World of the Snow Leopard” has won the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 58 People’s Choice Award. The photo was taken during a three-year, bait-free, camera-trap project in the Indian Himalayas. Carefully positioned in the mountains of Ladakh in northern India, Sascha’s camera trap caught the elusive snow leopard in the perfect pose. (Sascha Fonseca)

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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets

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.

90-day online reporting

covid, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s News-Feb 9

February 9, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Pranburi Half-Marathon Sunday/
Seven social trends shaping Thai business in 2023/
Thailand is promoting its green transformation to US investors/
Family of five – including three month old infant – found shot and stabbed to death/
Nestle to buy renewable energy from EGAT/
Tourism: 16 Thai festivals to be promoted on global stage/Chiang Rai Balloon Festival canned, but not balloon rides/Chinese tourists flood Mae Klong for ‘Amazing World Class’ experience/Swedish ‘plogging’ trend reaches Koh Lanta/Many Foreigners in Phuket Allegedly Renting Cars To Provide Illegal Taxi Services/Thailand says it can’t police V IP escort packages/
Thailand Experience: A Guide to Finding the Best Bites on the Streets: Thailand Street Food Hotspots/
Covid: Covid cases drop another 30%, only 4% of Chinese arrivals test positive/
International: More survivors found as quake toll tops 11,200/Singapore remains the most liveable location in the world/
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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Pranburi Half-Marathon Sunday

Seven social trends shaping Thai business in 2023

As businesses face the reality of a global economic slowdown, observers are increasingly optimistic about Thailand’s path forward in 2023, as local companies remain durable and resilient – focusing on performance following three years of tremendous transformation.

Thailand’s Ministry of Finance recently forecast up to 3.8% economic growth in 2023, bolstered by an improved tourism sector and domestic demand. This improvement will also be seen in digital spaces, with nearly 60% of worldwide social users set to be based in Asia-Pacific this year.

With an increasingly competitive digital landscape, the potential to connect with customers where they are is crucial; and it will be platforms, creators, friends, and families that drive the discovery and evaluation of local brand products and services. Continued …

Thailand is promoting its green transformation to US investors

The Board of Investment (BOI) is promoting Thailand’s potential in the green economy to attract U.S. investors, BOI Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said on Wednesday.

He noted that the board’s first two roadshows this year were held in Seattle and San Francisco last month.

They focused on Thailand’s policy of increasing the use of renewable energy in the industrial sector by 50%, as well as the country’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, Narit Therdsteerasukdi said. Continued …

Family of five – including three month-old infant – found shot and stabbed to death

A family of five Hmong people, including three children, were found dead on a farm in Wang Chao district of Thailand’s western border province of Tak on Wednesday.

Police who rushed to the scene in Village 11 in Chiang Thong subdistrict, after being alerted by the victims’ relatives, said that the five bodies appeared to have bullet and knife wounds, adding that the victims are believed to be members of the same family, including the parents and their three children, aged three months, seven and 10.

The motive for the massacre is currently unknown, say the police. Continued …

Nestle to buy renewable energy from EGAT

Nestle (Thai), a consumer goods manufacturer and marketer, plans to focus more on clean energy for its operations, working with the state-run Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) as its trade and energy partner.

Nestle, EGAT and Innopower Co., an energy innovation firm, signed an agreement to make full use of renewable power under the second phase of the ERC sandbox, overseen by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

Innopower is a subsidiary of Ratch Group Plc and Electricity Generating Plc, both subsidiaries of EGAT. Continued …

16 Thai festivals to be promoted on global stage

In an effort to promote the country’s cultural traditions and generate more revenue for communities, the Culture Ministry has chosen 16 Thai festivals to be promoted internationally, ministry Permanent Secretary Yupha Taweewattanakitborvon said on Wednesday.

She said that in alignment with the bio-circular-green economic model, the ministry has been trying to promote Thai soft power at the international level, particularly in the “5F” industries – food, films, fashion, fighting, and festivals.

The selected festivals include Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Festival (Pattani province), Ban Chiang World Heritage Festival (Uthai Thani), Korat Street Art (Nakhon Ratchasima), Hae Malai Khao Tok Festival (Yasothon), and Phuket Food Festival (Phuket). Continued …

Chiang Rai Balloon Festival canned, but not balloon rides

Chiang Rai’s annual International Balloon Fiesta has been canceled again this year, but that won’t stop Valentine’s couples from taking their love sky-high over Singha Park Chiang Rai. The Muang district attraction will still be hosting a Valentine’s Day event for couples from Feb. 12-15. The highlight will be romantic balloon rides for a bird’s eye view of Singh Park and Chiang Rai city. Before the pandemic, the International Balloon Fiesta was a major annual attraction during the week of Valentine’s Day in the northern province. The international balloon extravaganza is expected to be refloated when tourism recovers and international arrivals increase. (The Nation)

Chinese tourists flood Mae Klong for ‘Amazing World Class’ experience

Thailand is one of 20 countries that Chinese on group tours are allowed to visit. A group of 40 arrived on Spring Airlines to Don Muang airport while 90 independent travelers were welcomed, too.

Yesterday, the tourists were at the Mae Klong station waiting for a photo-opportunity of a train coming into the station through the Rum Hup market.

It was packed as the train crept through the crowded area. Continued …

Swedish ‘plogging’ trend reaches Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta – an island along Thailand‘s Andaman coast – saw its first ever plogging event last week, according to the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok.

There’s nothing worse than a beautiful landscape spoiled by plastic waste and debris. A movement in Sweden has come up with a solution.

Plogging is an activity that combines jogging with picking up litter. Continued …

Many Foreigners in Phuket Allegedly Renting Cars To Provide Illegal Taxi Services

Phuket officials are investigating after they have received many complaints that many foreigners are renting cars for doing illegal taxi services.

A team of officials from the Phuket Land Transport Office (Phuket PLTO) and the Phuket Provincial Employment Office yesterday set up a checkpoint at the Si Kor Intersection in Kathu, which many vehicles were heading up to the Patong Hill.

Phuket PLTO Chief Atcha Buajan said they have received many complaints that many foreigners in Phuket are renting cars and are being illegal taxi drivers. Continued …

Thailand says it can’t police V IP escort packages

Authorities say VIP escort packages on sale in China are difficult to police, as the transactions are made outside of Thailand.

Thailand might ask Beijing for cooperation, as happened with the crackdown on so-called zero-dollar tours in 2016.

Facebook page “Lui Chin”, which exposed the VIP escort sales on Chinese e-commerce sites last month, revealed this week that such packages are still available. Continued …

A Guide to Finding the Best Bites on the Streets: Thailand Street Food Hotspots

Thailand is a street food heaven, with endless options of tasty bites waiting to be discovered. From juicy grilled meats to savory noodles, street food in Thailand is a foodie’s dream. Get ready to explore the best street food hotspots across the land of smiles.

Chatuchak Market, Bangkok

This famous market is the largest outdoor market in the world, and it’s a must-visit destination for street food lovers. With over 15,000 stalls, Chatuchak Market offers a variety of food options, including Som Tum, a spicy papaya salad that will tantalize your taste buds, Pad Thai, the national dish of Thailand made with stir-fried noodles, juicy grilled skewers, savory Tom Yum Soup, and much more.

Come hungry, as the market is a feast for the senses and you won’t be able to resist the tempting aromas and flavors. Continued …

Covid cases drop another 30%, only 4% of Chinese arrivals test positive

The Covid-19 situation in Thailand is showing steady improvement, with a decline of 30% in hospital admissions and fatalities. According to the Department of Disease Control, the average number of hospital admissions and deaths fell to 90 and six, respectively, between Jan. 15-21.

Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, the director-general of the DDC, stated that 627 Covid-19 patients were admitted to hospitals last week, with an average of 90 cases per day. Of these cases, 277 were suffering from lung infections, with 179 requiring ventilators.

Over the past week, the death toll has decreased to 44, which represents an average of six cases a day, and a fall of 32.3% compared to the previous week. This year, there have been 2,593 hospital admissions and 167 deaths. Continued …

More survivors found as quake toll tops 11,200

Searchers were still pulling survivors on Wednesday from the rubble of the earthquake that killed over 11,200 people in Turkey and Syria, even as the window for rescues narrowed. Continued …

Singapore remains the most liveable location in the world

Singapore remains the most liveable location in the world for expatriates from East Asia, with an improved livability score in the past year, as revealed by the latest location ratings survey published by global mobility expert ECA International. 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets

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.

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-Feb 8

February 8, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Train track work to close Soi 88 and Soi 70/
Long-boat racing returns to Khao Tao lake in November/
Thailand’s Valentine’s Day spending expected to jump for first time in 5 years/
Pet ownership in Thailand becoming more popular/
RTP officers must wear bodycam at all times at checkpoints/
A guide to traversing Bangkok’s massive new rail station/
19-month-old girl, trapped in groundwater well for over 17 hours, rescued/
Video: Bottom trawling destroying Thailand’s fishing industry/
Huawei aims to groom 20,000 Thai IT developers in three years/
GULF, AIS, and SINGTEL to launch data center/
New law allows foreign talent to thrive in Thailand/
Tourism: Tour Operator Fined 500,000 Baht for Attack on Chinese Tourist/Thailand’s first ever seaplane airline to launch this summer/
Thailand Experience: The best new cafes in Bangkok right now/
Covid: No new variants in weeks after China ended zero-Covid: study/
International: Rescuers work against time as Turkey-Syria quake death toll passes 7,800/WHO: Turkey, Syria quake could affect up to 23M/
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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Train track work to close Soi 88 and Soi 70

Construction work for the new dual track train line will force the closure of Soi 88 today and Friday from 9pm-4am, and Soi 70 will be closed on Feb 13, 14and 16 from 9pm-4am.

Long-boat racing returns to Khao Tao lake in November

Traditional long-boat racing returns to Hua Hin in November Nov. 17-19 at Khao Tao Reservoir. Six different categories of boats are anticipated.

Long-boat racing events in Thailand date back hundreds of years and were originally held as a celebration of the bond between local communities and rivers throughout the country.

Other activities being planned include a music award for youths under 22 years old for music related to Thai long boat races. performances from the local ethnic group “Thai Song Dam”, and a food market with other tourism promotion activities or booths.

Thailand’s Valentine’s Day spending expected to jump for first time in 5 years

Thailand’s Valentine’s Day spending is expected to jump for the first time in five years this year, according to a survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). Spending is expected to hit over 2.4 billion baht this year, the survey said.

The survey shows a 57.1% increase in spending compared to last year, with the majority of the money being spent on gifts, dining out, flowers, and movies. UTCC President Thanavath Phonvichai stated that this year’s spending is predicted to be active despite a relatively high cost of living and recent holiday spending.

The study, based on a survey of 1,225 people nationwide, showed that spending is expected to average 1,848 baht per person, compared to 1,176 baht last year. Continued …

Pet ownership in Thailand becoming more popular

Owning pets for Thai people has been found to be increasingly popular, according to data from Euromonitor. Data. The site has indicated that the number of Thais who count pets as family members has increased by 3% from 2019 to 2022. The number is expected to continue to rise as more Thais take a liking to pets.

In 2019, around 34% of Thai households had dogs or cats, with that number increasing to 37% in 2022. Part of the increase in pet ownership is attributed to the Covid pandemic. Those who worked from home or were self-quarantining at home took a liking to pets to help them stay relaxed.

The data is indicative of the wants and needs of Thais’ residential living, providing a clue for housing developers to allow pets in the future. The trend of Gen Z, Gen Y, and the elderly population who prefer having animals as companions is on the upswing. Continued …

RTP officers must wear bodycam at all times at checkpoints

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) have tightened checkpoint regulations in a bid to stamp out cop corruption amid the Taiwanese actress scandal. RTP officers have been ordered to be courteous and professional and to wear body cameras while working at checkpoints in the future.

The commissioner of the RTP, Damrongsak Kittipraphat, held an online conference with police officers across the country yesterday to emphasize the necessary rules and procedures to be followed while on duty at checkpoints.

In response to the money extortion scandal exposed by a Taiwanese actress, Damrongsak said to capture all incidents and provide evidence at checkpoints, every officer on duty must wear a body camera at all times. Continued …

A guide to traversing Bangkok’s massive new rail station

While many Bangkok residents never stray far from their tight orbits around Sathorn, Thonglor, or Lat Phrao, millions of travelers will eventually make their way through the capital’s monumental new rail hub to reach all parts of the kingdom and, one day, beyond.

Those trying their luck now with Bangkok’s massive new public transit cathedral known as the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, aka Bang Sue Grand Station, would be wise to download a helpful guide to their phones for use in navigating its confusing immensity.

The author of the guide is Richard Barrow. The latest addition to the Barrow Expanded Universe is a 30-page PDF breaking down the what, where, and how of the station’s quarter-million square meters. Continued …

19-month-old girl, trapped in groundwater well for over 17 hours, rescued

Rescuers have successfully pulled a 19-month-old Myanmar girl from a 15-meter deep groundwater hole, where she had been trapped for over 17 hours.

Cheers of joy erupted when the child, helped by rescuers, emerged from the hole, was put on a stretcher and rushed to Phop Phra District Hospital for assessment and treatment.

The rescue team reached the girl at about 8am yesterday morning, but they could not immediately pull her out because she appeared to have suffered leg injuries in the fall. Continued …

Video: Bottom trawling destroying Thailand’s fishing industry

Ocean bottom trawling is destroying our marine ecosystems and damaging future food security for Thailand. The Environmental Justice Foundation is calling for its end. Report

Video

Huawei aims to groom 20,000 Thai IT developers in three years

Huawei Technologies (Thailand) will focus on grooming at least 20,000 talents and developers in Thailand within three years as part of its sustainable growth strategy.

The announcement came as David Li, the company’s newly appointed CEO, unveiled Huawei’s six core business directions for Thailand in 2023 at a media briefing on Tuesday.

Huawei’s goal is to contribute social values and cultivate local digital talents in addition to achieving business success, he said, adding Huawei Thailand will place strong emphasis on developing information and communications technology (ICT) personnel in Thailand, with the goal of grooming 20,000 developers in three years. Continued …

GULF, AIS, and SINGTEL to launch data center

A joint partnership between Gulf Energy, Singtel, and AIS will see the construction of a new 20+ MW data center, the operators said on Wednesday.

A new company, GSA Data Center Co. (GSA), has been created as a joint venture between the three companies to run the data center.

According to a statement, the data center will be a best-in-class hyperconnected data center and will serve the greater demands of enterprises and cloud service providers in Thailand and the region. The data center is scheduled to begin commercial operations in 2025. Continued …

New law allows foreign talent to thrive in Thailand

The government of Thailand has taken a step forward in attracting highly skilled foreign workers to the country, with the release of a new law that allows foreigners to work or invest in 18 select industries.

The Royal Thai Gazette website published a notice from the Ministry of Interior outlining the special permit for migrant workers, signed by Prime Minister Prayuth Cha-o-cha and Interior Minister Anupong Paochinda on Feb. 3.

This new law is an opportunity for skilled specialists, investors, executives, and entrepreneurs to make their mark in Thailand and a sign that the Thai government is open to foreign investment and willing to support the growth of the economy. Continued …

Tour Operator Fined 500,000 Baht for Attack on Chinese Tourist

Phuket’s governor, officials and representatives from the tourism sector met Li Chenglong, counselor director of China’s Phuket consular office to apologize for a tour agent’s attack on a Chinese tourist.

Both sides discussed the Feb. 1 incident when a woman at a Thai tour company in Karon subdistrict kicked a Chinese customer and inflicted a cut on his arm with a small knife during their argument over the 5,000- baht refund the client demanded for a trip to Similan Island he and his family missed because the tour firm had failed to pick them up at the meeting point.

Phuket Gov. Narong Woonciew reported the penalty given to the culprit for criminal offense and violation of the Tourism Business Act. The tour operator was fined 500,000 baht and the firm has been suspended from business for six months. Continued …

Thailand’s first ever seaplane airline to launch this summer

Thailand‘s first-ever seaplane airline, Siam Seaplane, is preparing to launch this summer to take the kingdom’s tourism industry to the next level.

Siam Seaplane has formed partnerships with 60 luxury hotels and resorts, including top brands Intercontinental and Four Seasons.

Chief Business Operator Dennis Keller revealed that the company faced plenty of setbacks during the pandemic, but is now working on securing over 40 landing sites around Thailand. Continued …

The best new cafes in Bangkok right now

When life gives you lemons, trade them for coffee. A morning cup of joe helps you jump start the day, and it’s always fun to find a new favorite cafe in town to grab one from. Here are the best new cafes in Bangkok right now.

Imagine: the aroma of ground coffee beans as you walk in, the relaxing, calming vibe as you take a sip of your drink of choice, the crisp, tangy taste of the pastry that comes with your cup. A good cafe lets you forget all your problems even for just a moment. Bangkok won’t have any shortage soon when it comes to good cafes, so let us show you the new places to update your bucket list.

Dosan Dalmatian

Ever-popular Siam Square has a new cafe to add to its arsenal. All the way from Seoul to Bangkok, Dosan Dalmatian is proud to present good coffees and teas, three stories of Instagrammable corners, and a pet-friendly welcome to man’s best friends. Continued …

No new variants in weeks after China ended zero-Covid: study

No new variants of Covid-19 emerged in Beijing in the weeks after China ended its zero-Covid policy late last year, a new study said on Wednesday.

China saw an explosion of infections after starting to lift its strict pandemic measures from early December, sparking fears the world’s most populous country could become a fertile breeding ground for new, more transmissible or severe strains.

More than a dozen countries promptly imposed fresh restrictions on travelers from China, also citing a lack of transparency about the scale of the outbreak, sparking Beijing’s ire. Continued …

Rescuers work against time as Turkey-Syria quake death toll passes 7,800

Rescuers worked against time in harsh winter conditions on Tuesday evening, trying to dig people out of the rubble of collapsed buildings as the death toll from Turkey and Syria’s devastating earthquake jumped to more than 7,900.

Turkish authorities say some 13.5 million people were affected in an area spanning roughly 450 km (280 miles) from Adana in the west to Diyarbakir in the east, and 300 km from Malatya in the north to Hatay in the south.

Syrian authorities have reported deaths as far south as Hama, some 250 km from the epicenter. Continued …

WHO: Turkey, Syria quake could affect up to 23M

Up to 23 million people could be affected by the massive earthquake that has killed thousands in Turkey and Syria, the WHO warned on Tuesday, promising long-term assistance. 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets

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.

90-day online reporting

bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-Feb 7

February 7, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Inflation in January falls to 9-month low as cost-of-living crisis eases/
What you need to know about that knee problem/
Dental seminar set at Be Well Clinic Feb 18/
Muay Thai world record set – video/
Chinese buyers seek quick move amid zero-Covid fears/
Thailand deploying 20-member urban search and rescue team to Turkey/
Thai foodies angered as Kaeng Som named among world’s worst dishes/
110 Thai immigration police officers charged in visa scandal/
Many Thai workers ill-prepared for old age/
Tourism: Forest park in Phetchaburi to become geological tourist attraction/PKK’s Golden Swan in Thap Sakae/First Chinese tour group in 3 years arrives in Phuket/Ministry to probe attack on Chinese tourist/Chinese investors return to Chiang Mai, Bangkok/Nine Swedish Tourists Survive after Boat Capsizes in Krabi/Body of German tourist who jumped from Koh Pha Ngan ferry found/Foreigners, particularly Russians, accused of working illegally in Phuket/
Thailand Experience: Thai cuisine comes in at 13 in TripAdvisor’s latest ranking/Northern Thai Food: A Guide to Regional Specialties in Thai Cuisine/
Covid: New Covid cases, deaths dropped by about half last week/
International: Rescuers Scramble In Turkey, Syria As Earthquake Death Toll Rises To 4,000/Why was the Turkey-Syria earthquake so deadly?/Single-use plastics production still on the rise/
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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Inflation in January falls to 9-month low as cost-of-living crisis eases

Thailand’s headline inflation fell to a nine-month low of 5.02% in January, from 5.89% in December, the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) announced Monday.

TPSO Director-general Wichanun Niwatjinda said the inflation slowdown reflected falling prices of energy and fresh foods. The TPSO expects inflation to drop further this month.

Wichanun said headline inflation in January stood at 108.18 points, up 5.02% year on year but still the lowest for the past nine months. Continued …

What you need to know about that knee problem

Your knees are essential to your health. They have an incredibly important job of supporting and stabilizing your body as you walk, run, dance, or play sports. But most people don’t think about them until they start hurting.

Knee pain can be experienced in many different guises, it is common during growth spurts in children, or with trauma from sport or falls, or it may come on as we age with wear and tear. Knee pain can stem from the muscles, ligaments, tendons, cartilage or meniscus. It can sometimes also be referred from the hip joint or lower back.

Acute knee injuries often occur with sports that involve rapid acceleration or deceleration, twisting, kicking or sudden changes of direction. More gradual onset of knee pain can occur due to repetitive running, jumping and landing, kicking or squatting. Continued …

Dental seminar set at Be Well Clinic Feb 18

The Be Well Medical Clinic in Hua Hin will hold a dental seminar, hosted by the Be Well Dental Department, on Feb. 18.

The seminar will address degeneration prevention, restorative dentistry (e.g., crowns and bridges), esthetic treatments (e.g., whitening, veneers), implants, and the speakers will also cover the possibilities, risks and costs of various therapies.

Registration will start at 9.30am with the seminar starting at 10am.

The clinic is located at the Coral Restaurant @ Banyan Resort (next to the Be Well Medical Center) Petchkasem Road, between Soi 120 and 122.

@BeWell members and Banyan Privilege Club members can attend for free, for others the fee is THB500. Advance registration is by email at event@bewell.co.th. For more information.

Muay Thai world record set

Renowned Muay Thai fighter Sombat “Buakhao” Banchamek teamed up with 3,650 soldiers to break a Guinness world record by performing the traditional Thai dance, Wai Kru, at the Amazing Muaythai Festival 2023 in Hua Hin.

Feb. 6 of every year is marked as Muay Thai Day to preserve and promote Thailand’s soft power Thai boxing.

Video

Commander of the Royal Thai Army, Narongphan Jitkaewtae, wanted to celebrate and promote the cultural heritage of Muay Thai. So, the army collaborated with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and other relevant departments to host a celebration event named Amazing Muaythai Festival 2023. Continued …

Chinese buyers seek quick move amid zero-Covid fears

Ready-to-move-in condos in Thailand are attracting Chinese buyers, as the majority of them want to speed up relocation to the country due to concerns over the future of Beijing’s zero-Covid policy.

Kashif Ansari, co-founder and chief executive of Juwai IQI Group, the real estate marketing firm that owns the international real estate portal juwai.com in China, said Chinese buyers had a sense of urgency, which never appeared prior to the pandemic.

“If Chinese nationals are planning to move to Thailand, they want to do it right away, not in two years. These are the first movers,” he said. Continued …

Thailand deploying 20-member urban search and rescue team to Turkey

Thailand will deploy a 20-member urban search and rescue (USAR) team to the disaster zone of major earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria on Monday.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation said 20 fully equipped members of USAR Thailand are on standby and will depart as soon as they get the green light from Turkish authorities.

USAR Thailand team members are trained experts with experience in search and rescue operations in large-scale disasters at both national and international levels. Continued …

Thai foodies angered as Kaeng Som named among world’s worst dishes

Thais are struggling to digest the news that one of their favorite foods, kaeng som (spicy-sour fish curry), has been ranked the 12th worst dish in the world by a global foody website.

Netizens are venting their anger and disgust after the distinctive watery Thai curry received a score of 2.3 out of 5 in the online food guide TasteAtlas on Saturday.

Kaeng som is made from a paste of shrimp and shallots, its sharp sweet-sour flavor coming from the addition of tamarind and sometimes lime juice. Continued …

110 Thai immigration police officers charged in visa scandal

More than 100 immigration police officers, including three generals, have been found to have issued visas illegally to foreign visitors, Police Gen. Surachate Hakparn, the deputy national police chief, said yesterday.

All 110 of them have been charged with malfeasance in office and taking bribes, he said, adding that he expects the case to be sent to the public prosecutors this week.

The probe into visa scandal, in which immigration police officers and several local administration officials are implicated, is an extension of an investigation into the conduct of a handful of immigration police officers who were allegedly involved in issuing visas for Chinese businessman Chaiyanat Kornchayanant and other Chinese businessmen allegedly involved in “gray” businesses in Thailand. Continued …

Many Thai workers ill-prepared for old age

Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith is concerned that more than 16 million informal workers have yet to participate in any savings scheme to prepare for life during retirement, even though Thailand is expected to become an aged society in the next two years.

He said that Thailand is now an aging society, as at least 10% of the population has been 60 years old or more since 2005. A total of 12.5 million people, or 19% of the population, is currently over 60. Thai people are also enjoying a longer life span.

Arkhom added that the country is expected to become an aged society in the next couple of years when elderly people will surge to 20% of the total population. It is set to become a super-aged society in 2034 when the elderly proportion of the population reaches 28%. Continued …

Forest park in Phetchaburi to become geological tourist attraction

Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment plans to develop the Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park in Phetchaburi province into a geological tourist destination, to promote geological study and conservation of natural resources.

Geologists from the Department of Mineral Resources have recently found many fossilized marine creatures embedded in the limestone mountain in the park, which are thought to be from about 250 million years ago, during the Permian period.

The fossilized marine creatures include bivalves, single-shell mollusc and corals.

The limestone mountain in the forest park was created by the massive accumulation of calcium carbonate sediments, dating back more than 250 million years. Some of the fossilized corals appear like tree branches or horns, called Rugose corals, which became extinct about 250 million years ago. – thaipbsworld.com

PKK’s Golden Swan in Thap Sakae

One of the most significant religious sites in Prachuap Khiri Khan province is the “Giant Golden Swan” located on the Hua Hin-bound side of Petchkasem Road in Thap Sakae. Believers say it is a gathering spot for angels. It was built by the former abbot of Huay Luek Temple, “Phra Kru Paisarn”. People who make merit at the temple do so to ask for fortune or money, and when the request is granted, frequently bring bracelets or sculptures of swans to say thank you. (HHT)

First Chinese tour group in 3 years arrives in Phuket

Phuket tourism officials have welcomed the first Chinese tour group to visit the island in three years. The group touched down at Phuket International Airport at 3.15pm yesterday.

Passengers were welcomed by airport director Monchai Tamod and Montree Manator from the Phuket office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. There were 180 passengers in the group, arriving on a direct flight from Shanghai with Spring Airlines.

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Chinese tour groups were a regular feature on the island. However, harsh outbound travel restrictions imposed by Beijing meant there have been none for nearly three years. Continued …

Ministry to probe attack on Chinese tourist

The Tourism and Sports Ministry is rushing to investigate a case involving a Chinese tourist who was assaulted by a travel agent in Phuket after the case went viral, but the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is still hoping to secure 7-8 million tourists from China this year as the first batch of tour groups touched down in the country on Monday.

A viral TikTok clip showed a Chinese tourist being assaulted with a knife by a member of staff at a tour agency in Phuket during an altercation after the agency was unable to return in full a 5,000-baht deposit for a Similan Islands tour package, which a tourist had booked in advance for his group.

The tourist claimed the members of the group were instead left stranded at their hotel on the morning of Jan. 31, when they were supposed to take the tour. Continued …

Chinese investors return to Chiang Mai, Bangkok

Thailand welcomed 2.24 million foreign tourists in December, a surge from 1.17 million in July. The figures are expected to exceed 2 million people in January, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimated.

The significant recovery of the tourism industry has been able to attract foreigners to invest more in the supply-side business in Thailand – especially the major tourist destination cities, including Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. These popular provinces are seeing their bright future, as TAT expects more than 30 million arrivals of foreign visitors in 2023.

The rebounding of tourism sector not only brings back visitors, but also foreign investors, Panlop Sae-Jew, chairman of the Chiang Mai Tourism Industry Council, says. Continued …

Nine Swedish Tourists Survive after Boat Capsizes in Krabi

Nine Swedish tourists have survived after a long-tailed boat capsized in Krabi.

The head of the Than Bok Khorani National Park, Weerasak Srisajjang, stated tthey were notified of the incident on Sunday near the Hong Island in the Khao Thong subdistrict, Mueang Krabi.

Rescue teams went to the scene to find nine male and female Swedish nationals and the boat captain in the sea near the long-tailed boat, which was capsized. Continued …

Body of German tourist who jumped from Koh Pha Ngan ferry found

A body found floating in the sea near Koh Tao is believed to be the missing German tourist who jumped off a ferry shortly after it departed from Koh Pha Ngan in southern Thailand one week ago.

At 4pm yesterday, the Kusol Sattha Rescue Foundation was informed that a tourist boat came across the body of a male tourist floating in the Ao Muong Bay in Koh Tao subdistrict, Koh Pha Ngan district, Surat Thani province. Continued …

Foreigners, particularly Russians, accused of working illegally in Phuket

The Phuket Information Center Facebook page has accused foreigners, particularly Russians, of operating illegal businesses and working illegally in Phuket.

It shared with its followers Sunday that, “A lot of foreigners stay and work in Phuket, both legally and illegally. Recently, a group of foreigners started a car rental business. They offered both cars and minibuses and also served tourists as chauffeurs. They steal jobs from Thai people!”

“If anyone has more information on this, please send it to the page’s admin. We, together with the Phuket Tourist Police, will get rid of this issue.” Continued …

Thai cuisine comes in at 13 in TripAdvisor’s latest ranking

Despite being a top travel destination for many, Thai cuisine only came in No. 13 in the latest ranking by online travel information and booking website TripAdvisor.

The top three food destinations in the world were the Italian capital Rome, the Greek island of Crete and the Vietnamese capital Hanoi.

However, TripAdvisor sang Bangkok’s praises, saying: “Golden palaces, floating markets, majestic porcelain-laid spires … you’ve never seen a capital city quite like Bangkok. Continued …

Northern Thai Food: A Guide to Regional Specialties in Thai Cuisine

Thai cuisine is a melting pot of diverse flavors and ingredients, each region offering its own unique twist on classic dishes. If you’re tired of the usual pad Thai and green curry, head north to explore the treasure trove of delicious treats waiting to be discovered. Here’s what you need to know about the delicious northern Thai food.

Northern Thai cuisine is famous for its bold and pungent flavors. It uses plenty of chili, herbs, and spices. It’s a feast for the senses, leaving a lasting impression on the taste buds.

The region is renowned for its sausages, which consist of a mixture of pork and sticky rice. It also has a popular signature dish, Khao Soi. The local people make this rich and creamy curry with egg noodles, chicken, and a blend of spices that’ll tantalize your taste buds. Continued …

New Covid cases, deaths dropped by about half last week

Hospitalizations and deaths from Covid-19 last week dropped by about half from the week before, Thailand’s Disease Control Department (DCD) said on Monday.

The DCD reported that 252 Covid cases were hospitalized from Jan. 29 to Feb. 4, an average of 36 patients per day. That represented a decline of 46.3% from the 472 cases hospitalized from Jan. 22-28, an average of 67 per day.

Deaths from Covid last week dropped to 17 (an average of 2-3 per day), from 29 a week earlier. Currently, 122 Covid patients are being treated in hospital for pneumonia, 78 of whom are on ventilators. Continued …

Rescuers Scramble In Turkey, Syria As Earthquake Death Toll Rises To 4,000

Rescuers in Turkey and war-ravaged Syria searched through the frigid night into Tuesday, hoping to pull more survivors from the rubble after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake killed more than 4,000 people and toppled thousands of buildings across a wide region. Continued …

Why was the Turkey-Syria earthquake so deadly?

A combination of factors made the powerful earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria early Monday particularly deadly, including its timing, location, relatively quiet fault line and the weak construction of the collapsed buildings, experts said. Continued …

Single-use plastics production still on the rise

Minderoo Foundation’s Plastic Waste Makers Index (PWMI) 2023 shows the planet’s plastic pollution problem is worsening, and new estimates of lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from single-use plastics demonstrate how single-use plastics producers also contribute to the climate crisis. 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

The bus from Hua Hin to Pattaya departure time remains unchanged at 11am, at 473 baht. Tickets

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.

90-day online reporting