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baht, bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand islands, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 15

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Feedback Re: BBC Thailand sex documentary/Bank of Thailand promises fix/More bank accounts may be frozen/DES urges calm amid locked bank accounts/Merchants seen insisting on cash payment/Foreign nominee land, business ownership/Plans for Hua Hin’s Queen Park/Heavy rains forecast/Most Thais expect Anutin to last no more than four months/349 landmines near Cambodian border/Thai-China rail delays pile up/ECONOMY: Thailand’s Next Coastal Investment Engine/Economist warns of stronger baht/Anutin’s quick-win plan/China’s appliance giants intensify battle/Logistics sector draws 2.5-billion baht/TOURISM: Compensation for flight delays and cancellations/Emergency plan to revive tourism/Phuket Eyes $17.3Billion Tourism Revenue/Pattaya’s past holds back growth/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Nan: A Haven of Heritage and Serenity/Thai coffee faces boom and doom/Khao Yai Explores Eco-Tourism/CLIMATE THAILAND: A last shot at clean air?/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Re: BBC Thailand sex documentary

“I wonder who these ‘Netizens’ are and if they know anything about Thailand. If anything, the BBC documentary was understated.” – AB

Bank of Thailand promises fix after accounts frozen without warning

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has pledged to tighten its procedures for freezing and unfreezing suspected bank accounts after technical issues and police instructions led to several customers’ balances being displayed as negative. The central bank said the problems caused confusion and distress for affected individuals, but measures are being introduced to prevent a recurrence.

According to Daranee Saeju, assistant governor overseeing the Payment Systems Policy and Financial Consumer Protection Group, the central bank identified two separate causes behind the incidents. The first occurred on Sept. 1 when some banks failed to update end-of-day transactions, leaving accounts showing outdated balances. This technical error was corrected the following day and banks were instructed to compensate affected customers and strengthen safeguards. Continued …

More bank accounts may be frozen: Bank of Thailand

More people could face frozen bank accounts as authorities widen investigations into transfers linked to mule accounts, in an effort to recover money for scam victims, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) has warned.

Daranee Saeju, BoT assistant governor in charge of consumer protection, said on Saturday that numerous accounts had already been frozen as the Anti-Online Scam Operation Center (AOC), together with commercial banks, intensified operations to trace and return stolen funds. Continued …

DES urges calm amid locked bank accounts

The Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry has opened a special “war room” to urgently address complaints over frozen bank accounts, after a surge of reports from online vendors and individuals who found their funds locked due to suspected links with so-called “mule accounts.”

The move came after the Bank of Thailand (BoT), commercial banks, and law enforcement agencies held urgent talks yesterday to address growing public concern over the temporary suspension of the accounts. “Mule accounts” are often opened by unknowing parties to receive transfers from victims of financial fraud. Continued …

Merchants seen insisting on cash payment as account freezing spreads

With the freezing of bank accounts spreading amid a crackdown on mule accounts, several fearful merchants have stopped accepting digital financial payments and insist on cash only.

People are beginning to withdraw cash from their accounts as they fear a sudden freezing. Several people have had their accounts frozen, even though they have not done anything wrong, because they received transfers from suspected mule accounts. Continued …

Foreign nominee land, business ownership under the microscope

Thailand’s Ombudsman has urged parliament to amend laws and close loopholes that allow foreign nationals to use Thai nominees to acquire land and control businesses, a practice that authorities say is widespread in economically strategic provinces.

Ombudsman Songsak Saicheua said that while Thailand’s existing laws prohibit foreign nationals from owning land and restrict foreign control of certain businesses, some have found ways to circumvent the rules. Common methods include marrying Thai citizens, setting up companies with nominal Thai shareholders while foreigners manage operations, or using other intermediaries to mask actual ownership. Continued …

Plans for mixed-use activity area at Hua Hin’s Queen’s Park

Hua Hin City Municipality is moving forward with plans to turn 19 rai of land at Suan Luang Queen’s Park into a mixed-use activity area, though officials say more legal clarity is still required before development can proceed.

On Friday, Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul chaired a meeting at Hua Hin City Municipality to follow up on the request to use the land, which falls under the Forest Resource Management office. The proposal is to designate the site as public land for community use, including as a multi-purpose space for government agencies, a sports and exercise ground, a recreational area, and a venue for anti-drug sports activities. Continued …

Heavy rains forecast in Bangkok and 41 provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather forecast warning for today, where heavy rains are expected in 41 provinces, including Bangkok and its metropolitan areas, with a 70% chance of downpours.

The southern region (eastern coast) will experience thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rains in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C, with highs of 31 to 34°C. Southwesterly winds will prevail at 15 to 30 km/h. Continued …

Most Thais expect Anutin’s minority govt to survive no more than four months

Most Thai voters believe the minority government of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will last no more than four months, according to an opinion survey.

The poll was conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA Poll) among 1,310 respondents nationwide on Sept. 8–9. All participants were at least 18 years old, the legal voting age. Continued …

One-month clearance finds 349 landmines near Cambodian border

Col. Siwa Whang-akat, spokesman for the Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), yesterday released results of clearance operations supporting the 2nd Army Area in Phu Makua, Chong An Ma and Chong Bok, following the ceasefire declaration with Cambodia.

He said patrols have been conducted continuously, with nine demining teams deployed in Phase 1 from Aug. 10–23. During this period, teams successfully cleared 122 anti-personnel mines, four anti-vehicle mines, 50 unexploded ordnance items, and 1,575 abandoned explosive devices. Continued …

Thai-China rail delays pile up as minister faces tough test

Thailand’s high-speed rail project is facing fresh delays as the new transport minister takes charge of stalled contracts and unresolved heritage concerns.

The project, first launched with a groundbreaking ceremony at Chiang Rak Noi, Ayutthaya, in December 2015, was billed as a game-changer for regional connectivity. A decade on, progress remains painfully slow. Continued …

Cheow-Lan-Lake, Surat-Thani

Sichon–Khanom: Thailand’s Next Coastal Investment Engine

The Sichon-Khanom corridor is rapidly emerging as southern Thailand’s tourism and investment destination, driven by major infrastructure developments, international brand recognition, and unparalleled natural assets.

The Sichon-Khanom corridor benefits from comprehensive multi-modal connectivity through three established international airports: Surat Thani Airport, Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport, and Samui International Airport, providing convenience for both domestic and international travelers. This tri-airport accessibility, combined with the recent completion of the connecting road between Sichon and Khanom districts, has significantly enhanced regional connectivity and reduced travel times. Continued … 

Top economist warns of a stronger baht; tourism and exports face a severe hit

Thailand’s top economist, Anusorn Thamjai of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC), is sounding the alarm. H he interim government that a stronger baht could hit an already fragile economy hard this year.

Ironically, the baht’s surge is fueled by the kingdom’s own strong external reserves and solid financial position. Yet, despite this strength, the currency may breach the Bt30-per-dollar mark before year’s end, putting exports, foreign tourism, and the broader economy under serious pressure. Continued …

Anutin’s quick-win plan: co-payment, cheaper train fares, farm debt relief

The government of Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, faces a limited term under a political agreement with the People’s Party requiring the House to be dissolved within four months after its policy statement to parliament.

As a result, its policy design focuses on measures that can be implemented immediately, aimed at reviving the economy and boosting short-term purchasing power to ease economic pressures in the final months of 2025. Politically, the administration also hopes to leverage these measures to win the next general election and form a full four-year government. Continued …

China’s appliance giants intensify battle for Thai market

Thailand’s home appliance market is fast becoming a fierce battleground, as Chinese powerhouses. Haier, TCL, Hisense, Midea, and Changhong roll out aggressive expansion strategies. From building new factories to forging local partnerships and unveiling smart innovations, these brands are aiming to capture Thai consumers who increasingly demand quality, stylish design and cutting-edge technology.

This year marks a clear shift, with Chinese “big brands” moving in force. Haier is expanding factories in Chonburi and Prachin Buri; Midea has invested over 2.2 billion baht in a new air-conditioner plant in Rayong; Hisense is ramping up its push into premium smart TVs and appliances; TCL is eyeing stronger growth in the smart TV segment; and Changhong is entering the high-end market through a partnership with Global House. Continued …

Thailand’s logistics sector draws 2.5-billion baht in foreign investment

According to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) , Thailand’s logistics sector currently comprises 46,570 registered companies. In July, 327 new firms were established, down 2.1% year-on-year, while 69 firms closed, a 14.8% decrease from the same period last year.

The most notable area of growth was transportation and cargo/passenger handling services, which accounted for 194 of the newly established firms, representing the largest share of new logistics businesses. This segment recorded a year-on-year growth rate of 38.6%. Continued …

Thailand raises compensation for flight delays and cancellations

Passengers flying in Thailand will soon receive higher flight compensation for long delays and cancellations, under new regulations issued by the Civil Aviation Committee. Regulation No. 101, which outlines measures to protect passenger rights on both domestic and international scheduled flights, will take effect on Nov. 20.

For domestic flights, passengers affected by delays of more than five hours will now be entitled to 1,200 baht, up from the previous 600 baht. In the case of flight cancellations, compensation will rise from 1,200 baht to 1,500 baht. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism to apply emergency plan to revive the industry

Thailand, traditionally a strong tourism market in Southeast Asia, is currently experiencing a noticeable dip in tourist numbers during 2025. Projections suggest a revenue decrease of about 5%, with approximately 3 million fewer tourists visiting compared to previous years.

This decline, the most significant in recent memory, has understandably caused concern among government officials and those working in the industry. After all, Thailand’s tourism contributed $42.7 billion to the economy last year and remains a vital part of the nation’s financial health. With rising labor costs, increased energy prices, and a relatively short average tourist stay (under seven days), Thailand has announced an ambitious urgent plan to try to reverse this downward trend. Continued …

Phuket Eyes $17.3Billion Tourism Revenue as High Season Bookings Soar

Thailand’s premier island destination is targeting 550 billion baht ($17.3 billion) in tourism revenue this year, as accommodation bookings for the upcoming high season approach pre-pandemic levels, industry leaders announced Saturday.

Thanet Tantipiriyakit, president of the Phuket Tourist Assn., said the outlook for the island’s crucial high season appears strong, driven by increased direct flight connections and robust advance bookings from international visitors. Continued …

Pattaya’s past holds back growth as Western crowds decline and Asia steps in

Once the playground of Western tourists seeking sun, nightlife, and beaches, Pattaya is undergoing a demographic shift. The city, long associated with European and American visitors, is seeing a steady decline in long-time Western attendees. Meanwhile, a new wave of tourists from China, India, Russia, South Korea, and Japan is reshaping the face of the city.

Despite Thailand welcoming over 22 million tourists so far this year, Pattaya is struggling to capture the financial benefits. While other destinations see increased spending, Pattaya’s economy reflects a city still adapting to its changing audience. Many businesses are built around Western expectations, leaving a disconnect with the preferences of the new visitors, who often seek different experiences, from cultural activities and family-oriented attractions to shopping and culinary tourism. Continued …

Wat Phra That Khao Noi in Nan

Nan: A Haven of Heritage and Serenity

Nestled in northern Thailand, Nan is a province rich in cultural heritage, with ancient temples and serene landscapes, offering a blend of history and natural beauty. Video …

Thai coffee faces boom and doom paradox

As mist rolls in along a mountain ridge high above Chiang Mai, Chatree Saeyang climbs up steep wooden stairs to his rustic village cafe, a hideaway in the clouds for coffee drinkers. Chatree, 39, is a third-generation farmer and a tinkerer.

Video 

Littered behind the cafe counter is an assemblage of coffee paraphernalia for his caffeinated creations. As his espresso machine whirs, the headbanded master also starts to prepare a pour-over coffee from beans he grew, fermented, and roasted himself. Continued …

Khao Yai National Park Explores Eco-Tourism at Haew E-Am Waterfall

Khao Yai National Park is considering constructing a new eco-tourism destination at Haew E-Am Waterfall in Pho Ngam, Prachin Buri. The initiative is one of the measures the park is taking to boost tourism while maintaining its natural setting.

A survey group hiked along the natural path along the waterfall to evaluate its ability to be transformed into a new ecotourism site, prioritizing scenic beauty and natural rock outcroppings along the site. The results indicate that the area has excellent potential to become an important destination for tourists interested in hiking, nature activities, and serene getaways in nature. Continued …

Thailand’s new pollution register: A last shot at clean air?

After years of hazardous seasonal smog and other environmental crises, Thais have been given new hope as a draft clean air law moves through Parliament. This month, the House of Representatives approved the Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (PRTR) bill and formed a committee to review its details.

Penchom Sae-Tang, director of the Ecological Alert and Recovery-Thailand (EARTH), says the new law is vital for tackling the curse of Thailand’s industrial pollution, adding that “if it isn’t passed, the air pollution problems will never go away”. Continued …

Scientists Discover Massive Drinking Water Reserve Hidden Beneath Atlantic Ocean

In a remarkable discovery, scientists have located a massive low-salinity water reservoir off the coast of the United States. This colossal aquifer is buried beneath the salty Atlantic Ocean and possesses the potential to quench the thirst of a metropolis like Paris for millennia. In a world where freshwater scarcity is becoming an alarming reality, the implications of this finding are profound. Continued …

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Saturday’s news-Sept 13

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Afternoon ban on alcohol still enforced/PNP Real Estate wins PropertyGuru Award/Thailand’s top expat havens/Floodwater Surge Threatens Bangkok/Thai gold demand seen soaring/Netizens blast BBC documentary/Thailand’s Southern Insurgency/ECONOMY: Thailand, ASEAN emerge in spotlight/TOURISM: Phuket Boat Taxi/British Tourist Slashed/Indian tourists flee after Pattaya crash/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Must-visit hot springs in Thailand/Early cooking traditions in Southeast Asia/NEW PAGE – HUA HIN LINKS

Afternoon ban on alcohol sales in Thailand still enforced

Thailand’s Disease Control Department yesterday clarified that the three-hour daily ban on alcohol sales remains in force, dispelling confusion among vendors over a recent legal change.

The department stressed that all shops are still prohibited from selling alcoholic drinks between 2pm and 5pm, except in designated venues such as international airports, hotels, and licensed service establishments like bars. Continued …

PNP Real Estate Co. prevails as Best Developer (Hua Hin) in PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards

The PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards celebrated its historic 20th anniversary edition yesterday at a black-tie ceremony held at the recently reopened Dusit Thani Bangkok, where the kingdom’s finest real estate achievements took center stage across more than 40 categories. A total of 26 development companies and design practices brought home the gold during the presentation of the 20th Annual PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards.

PNP Real Estate Co. prevailed as best developer (Hua Hin), supported by its winning project La Felice Exclusive Villa Hua Hin. Continued …

Thailand’s top expat havens: Cost of living in 5 Provinces

So, you’re dreaming of the Land of Smiles. Not just for a two-week holiday, but for the long haul. Maybe you’re a remote worker tired of the cubicle, a retiree ready to trade snow for sunshine, or perhaps you’re just seeking a life less ordinary. Whatever your story, Thailand calls. But where to drop your bags?

We’ll take a closer look at five of the most popular spots for long-stay visitors. Bangkok with its mix of business districts and nightlife. Chiang Mai, set against mountain scenery and is known for its temples. Koh Samui, the island of palm trees and beaches. Pattaya, a coastal city close to Bangkok, and Phuket, the country’s largest island, both have busy and quiet corners. Continued …

Bangkok Braces as Northern Floodwaters Surge Threatens City

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has announced that a significant water surge from the north is alarmingly raising the city’s water levels, which he compares to the major floods of 2011. This surge, coupled with increased discharges from the Bhumipol and Sirikit dams, has left the capital’s defenses on high alert.

Chadchart explained that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has maintained close communication with the Royal Irrigation Department and other key agencies. This collaboration seeks to manage and alleviate rising water levels in the event of another storm, aiming to prevent a recurrence of the catastrophic 2011 floods. Continued …

Thai gold demand seen soaring as strong currency adds to allure

Thais are poised to buy more gold for a fifth straight year, as a rally in the local currency makes the bullion cheaper, complicating efforts by the central bank to curb the precious metal’s influence on the baht.

With gold prices climbing to new highs, more Thais are turning to the yellow metal for higher returns and as a safe haven against mounting global and domestic political uncertainties, said Nuttapong Hirunyasiri, managing director of MTS Gold Group, one of Thailand’s largest bullion dealers. Continued …

Netizens blast BBC’s Thailand dark side documentary

A British YouTuber and netizens criticized the BBC documentary “Thailand: The Dark Side of Paradise” for allegedly distorting facts and presenting misleading information to viewers. The film aimed to expose the darker aspects of several tourist destinations in Thailand, focusing particularly on Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya.

The documentary is fronted by Love Island and Made in Chelsea star Zara McDermott. During a London screening, McDermott claimed she and the crew were nearly arrested for filming in local bars, despite obtaining permission in advance. Continued …

Thailand’s Southern Insurgency: A Conflict Fated to Last?

Despite two decades of military crackdowns, peace talks, and policy experiments framed around economic development, the insurgency in Thailand’s southernmost provinces rages on.

Fatigue has understandably set in among observers and attention easily drifts to more dynamic conflicts, among them the Cambodia-Thailand border clash, which opened the space for great power intervention and shook up Thailand’s political leadership. Continued … 

Global economy shifts as Thailand, ASEAN emerge in spotlight

The International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD), in collaboration with Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), hosted the ITD Southeast Asia Trade and Development Forum 2025 under the theme “The Changing Realities of International Trade.”

The regional forum brought together global experts, economists, policymakers, and business leaders from Thailand and ASEAN to examine structural changes in the global economy and discuss sustainable strategies for the region. Continued …

Phuket Boat Taxi offers new solution to traffic, linking the airport to all piers

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and Phuket Province have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to launch the “Boat Taxi” project, connecting water-based transport routes from the airport to piers across the island.

This initiative aims to ease traffic congestion while elevating eco-tourism standards in Sirinat National Park to international levels. Continued …

British Tourist Slashed by Transgender Group in Pattaya

A 65-year-old British tourist was brutally attacked and left bloodied by a group of transgender women in his Pattaya condo room early yesterday morning after refusing to pay exorbitant fees for services he didn’t request.

Police Lt. Manasak Polyiem, deputy investigation inspector at Pattaya City Police Station, received the report of the assault at 5:36 a.m. at a condominium in South Pattaya, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. Continued …

Indian tourists flee after Pattaya crash leaves 2 women hurt

A late-night motorcycle collision in Pattaya has left two Thai women hospitalized, after what witnesses claim was a reckless encounter with two foreign tourists.

The incident occurred around 3am yesterday in front of a hotel at the busy intersection of Second Road and Phratamnak Road. According to eyewitnesses, the crash happened when a red-and-black Honda CBR 150 motorcycle collided with two men, believed to be Indian tourists, who were walking arm-in-arm across the road. Continued …

Healing waters: 6 must-visit hot springs in Thailand

When Thailand’s heat gets too much, a hot spring might not sound like the obvious escape. But these mineral-rich pools, tucked away in forests, national parks, and even resorts, have been prized for centuries for their therapeutic properties.

Beyond their wellness perks, they’re also scenic spots to soak, surrounded by waterfalls, mountains, and jungles. From the north to the south, here’s our curated guide to the hot springs worth exploring and experiencing in Thailand. Continued …

Early cooking traditions in Southeast Asia

“Ancient Southeast Asian cooking traditions and practices reflected communal values and rituals associated with food preparation and consumption. Social gatherings centered on food and strengthened bonds and ties between members of the family and the community,” according to Eman, a food historian.

“Long before modern cooking tools and wares were invented, ancient Southeast Asians had already mastered the art of cooking with what nature provided. Our ancestors relied on natural and eco-friendly methods that reflected their resourcefulness and deep connection to nature and the environment,” he added. Continued …

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Monday’s news-Nov 25

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Hua Hin water service disruptions/Van crash in Thap Sakae/CIMB Thai Triathlon/Hua Hin Art & Wellness Fair/Hua Hin Deepavali Festival/New Zealand citizen poisoned returns home/Laos vows justice/Where methanol poisonings happen most/Bangkok choked by pollution/End of free medicines policy/Thailand to expand child support/Thai healthcare tycoon flees/Elephants retreat in Korat/Songkhla mulling tunnel, bridge/Motorcycle gang crackdown/Police raid tiger trafficking ring/Phatthalung declared disaster zone/ECONOMY: To Investigate 27,000 Thai Nominee Businesses/Trump’s ‘tariff tantrums’/Foreigners take ownership of condos/New business registrations/Car production drops/Michelin pins investment on EV policy/Laos-China railway/How Japan Contributed to Thailand/TOURISM: What might hold tourism back/Destination Thailand Visa/Koh Kut tourism campaign/French tourist missing/Flight bomb threat/Israel raises travel warning/Vietjet Thailand Mumbai–Bangkok service/Satisfaction with airlines/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Rising Wave of Boutique Thai Liquors/7 best islands to visit/Rolled Ice Cream/CLIMATE THAILAND: ‘Greener’ transport key to growth/UN climate talks agreement/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin to face water service disruptions Dec 2-9

Continued …

 

Van crash in Thap Sakae district leaves 3 dead

In the early hours yesterday, a crash occurred on Phetkasem Road Huai Yang subdistrict, Thap Sakae District, Prachuap Khiri Khan. A red-plate Toyota van used for transporting a psychiatric patient collided with the rear of a trailer truck, resulting in three fatalities and one injury.

The accident happened at approximately 2: am just 2 kilometers before Wanakorn Beach National Park. The van used by the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) to transport a psychiatric patient for treatment in Nakhon Pathom was returning to Chumphon when the crash occurred. Continued …

CIMB Thai Triathlon Sunday

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Hua Hin Art & Wellness Fair Dec 6-8

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Hua Hin Deepavali Festival set for Dec 6

Continued …

New Zealand citizen poisoned by tainted alcohol in Laos returns home

A New Zealand citizen poisoned after drinking contaminated alcohol in a popular tourist town in Laos has returned home, authorities said today, as Laos pledged to prosecute those responsible for the incident that has killed six tourists.

“The New Zealand Embassy in Bangkok has been providing assistance to one New Zealander who we believe to have been poisoned with methanol in Laos. They have now departed Laos and returned home,” a New Zealand Foreign Ministry spokesperson said by email, without providing further details on the person. Continued … 

Laos vows justice after tainted alcohol kills tourists

The Lao government is “profoundly saddened” by the deaths of foreign tourists from drinking alcohol contaminated with methanol and pledged to prosecute those responsible.

Two Danes, two Australians, a Briton and an American have died after visiting Vang Vieng, an idyllic town that is popular with foreign backpackers, and drinking contaminated alcohol. Continued …

Here’s where methanol poisonings happen most

Two Australian teenagers died this week after becoming ill with suspected methanol poisoning in Laos, along with a dozen other tourists. Six people have now died, and they are all believed to have consumed drinks laced with methanol.

The Australian government has updated its travel advice for Laos, telling residents to be alert to the potential risk of spirit-based drinks, including cocktails. But this is not the first instance of methanol poisoning. Experts say it is widespread but often goes undiagnosed, and describe it as a “forgotten crisis”. Continued …

Bangkok choked by pollution

Prof. Rawiwan Oranratmanee was an impressively health-conscious person. Her routine workout included yoga, jogging and cycling, among others. Yet, at the age of only 55, she was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.

The dean of the faculty of Architecture at Chiang Mai University, Rawiwan passed away shortly after her first chemotherapy session. The malignancy was said to have caused by PM2.5, which resulted in a gene mutation. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Alarm over end of Thailand’s free medicines policy

A civil society group is unhappy with the Medical Council of Thailand’s legal action against the National Health Security Office (NHSO)’s policy over free medicine for 16 ailments under the universal healthcare scheme. It suggested the council immediately withdraw the lawsuit for the sake of patients.

Saree Aongsomwang, secretary-general of the Thailand Consumer Council (TCC), on Saturday expressed concern about the conflict between the Medical Council of Thailand and the Pharmacy Council of Thailand after the Supreme Administrative Court accepted the council’s complaint against the NHSO policy, which provides free medicine at pharmacies for symptoms on the list. Continued …

Thailand to expand child support to all under six years old

Thailand’s Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is poised to propose an expansion of the early childhood development scheme, with plans to present the child support proposal to the Cabinet shortly.

The scheme aims to broaden its reach by extending financial support to all children under six years of age, enhancing the current system that aids children from impoverished families. Continued …

Thai healthcare tycoon Boon Vanasin flees as fraud charges mount

Boon Vanasin, the founder of Thonburi Healthcare Group (THG), is currently at large in China while his wife and daughter have surrendered to the police in Thailand.

Faced with charges of public fraud, 79-year-old Jaruwan Vanasin, and her daughter, 51-year-old Nalin, turned themselves in to the police and have denied all allegations against them. Continued …

Elephants retreat after night-long standoff near farmland in Korat

About 100 wild elephants retreated after a standoff with volunteers trying to protect farmland in Khon Buri district of the northeastern Thai province of Korat from Saturday night to early Sunday morning.

Volunteers spotted at least 20 wild elephants gathering near the boundary of the Thap Lan National Park at about 9pm on Saturday. The wild animals appeared to be approaching sugarcane, cassava and cord fields in Taling Chan village. Continued …

Songkhla mulling tunnel, bridge options for lake

The Department of Rural Roads (DoRR) is conducting a feasibility study for a project to develop an alternative route across Songkhla Lake, connecting Muang district with Singha Nakhon district.

Speaking to a recent meeting of state agencies and locals, Weeradej Cheewapattananuwong, a senior design engineer from the DoRR, said the feasibility study is examining two options — a bridge across the lake or a tunnel. The initial findings are expected next month, he said. Continued …

Phetchabun police detain 722 in motorcycle gang crackdown

Police in Phetchabun detained 722 people linked to the Nam Mai Aab motorcycle gang gathering, roughly translating to no showering or no bathing. Over 10,000 participants and 6,000 motorcycles assembled in the province, prompting police action to maintain order and ensure public safety.

The gathering took place over two days, with Phetchabun’s Provincial Police Commander Saranai Kongmuang directing units to enforce measures against unsafe and disruptive driving. The initiative also targeted illegal sales of alcohol and kratom, aiming to curb driving under the influence, a leading cause of accidents. Continued …

Police raid tiger trafficking ring in Nonthaburi

Police recently raided a tiger carcass trafficking ring in Nonthaburi, discovering a large tiger skin openly advertised for sale on social media. This operation followed a tip-off received Saturday, prompting swift action from local and international wildlife protection agencies.

Attaphol Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, noted that the raid was part of an intensified crackdown on illegal wildlife trade directed by Varawut Silpa-archa, minister of Natural Resources and Environment. Continued …

Phatthalung declared disaster zone amid severe flooding

Severe flooding has hit several areas in the southern province of Phatthalung, prompting officials to declare disaster zones across four districts, affecting 15 subdistricts, 57 villages, and 12 communities. The heavy rainfall has led to both flood and wind disaster declarations, with urgent evacuations underway to move residents to safer areas.

Phatthalung, being a low-lying area, naturally receives water from the neighboring districts of Srinagarindra and Kong Ra, exacerbating the flooding situation. Currently, six subdistricts, 42 villages, and 12 communities have reported significant distress due to the inundation. Continued …

DBD to Investigate 27,000 Thai Nominee Businesses

The Thai Department of Business Development (DBD) is set to investigate 27,000 juristic persons next year as part of its intensified crackdown on the use of Thai nominees by foreign enterprises. This move is a response to mounting complaints from local businesses and collaborations with various agencies, noted Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the DBD.

The focus will be on sectors such as tourism, real estate, hotels and resorts, transport and logistics, as well as e-commerce and warehouses. Continued …

Trump’s ‘tariff tantrums’ threaten Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam – and beyond

For Malaysian recruiter Joseph Cheng, Donald Trump’s first stint in the White House brought a windfall. The U.S. president’s trade war with China triggered a rush of Chinese companies relocating to countries like Malaysia, desperately seeking refuge from punitive tariffs.

“They sent their goods here to be repackaged … and then sent them onto the U.S.,” said Cheng, director of recruitment agency Agensi Pekerjaan TSM, recalling the frantic scramble to find staff to accommodate the influx. Continued …

Foreigners take ownership of condos worth 18.571 billion in 3rd quarter

A total of 3,756 condo units worth 18.571 billion baht were transferred to foreign buyers in the third quarter of this year, the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) announced.

Kamolpop Veerapala, president of Government Housing Bank and acting REIC director, said the number of condominium units transferred to foreigners during the third quarter rose by 11.6% and their value rose 8.9% from the same period last year. Continued …

New business registrations set to top 90,000 this year

The number of new business registrations this year is expected to exceed 90,000, driven by the rebound in exports and tourism, as well as the government’s stimulus measures in the final quarter.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Business Development (DBD), said new business registrations for the first 10 months of 2024 rose by 2.18% year-on-year to 76,653. Continued …

Thailand October car production drops 25.1% y/y

Car production in Thailand fell 25.1% in October from a year earlier to 118,842 units, as truck output slumped heavily, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) said on Monday.

The figure followed a 25.5% fall in September, and was the 15th straight month that production had contracted. Production of pickup trucks dropped 27.8% in October from a year earlier while truck output tumbled 77.5%. Continued …

Michelin pins Thai investment on EV policy

French tire maker Michelin vows to expand its investment in Thailand, hoping to benefit from the government’s electric vehicle (EV) promotion policy despite weak domestic car sales.

The company wants to increase sales by introducing more innovative products and technologies, while joining the global campaign to have a more eco-friendly business direction. Continued … 

Laos-China railway boosts trade and tourism, but also Beijing’s clout

In the Laotian border town of Boten, the arrival of a sleek, modern train on a route that connects with southern China is a sign of growing trade and tourism links between one of Southeast Asia’s poorest countries and its giant neighbor. But it also signifies a marked rise in Chinese influence in Laos, and the drawing of the country closer into Beijing’s orbit.

The 1,035-kilometer line connecting Kunming in southwest China’s Yunnan Province with the Laotian capital Vientiane opened in late 2021, although trains only started crossing the border after the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in April 2023. Continued …

How Japan Contributed to the Development of Thailand

Looking at the past seven decades of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Thailand was like looking at how Thailand modernized herself. Japan has dispatched 12,000 technical experts and 1,100 volunteers to Thailand over the decades, while Thailand sent 33,000 technical trainees to Japan.

The past two decades or so, in particular, saw key infrastructures developed, partly thanks to Japan’s Yen Loan (or low-interest loan) and made possible the completion of Suvarnabhumi International Airport (2006) and the MRT Blue Line (2004). (On top of 14 out of 20 bridges across the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok and nearby provinces.). Continued …

What might hold Thailand’s tourism back

As Thailand officials urged tourism operators to brace for global economic downturn and fiercer competition, readers shared their problems with the country that is usually vouched as a tourism paradise in Asia.

“I just came from Chiang Mai, Thailand. Everything is dead there, no customers, few tourists, lots of shops closed. Everybody complains about business being really bad and having no money. I’ve been going to Thailand for 30 years, never seen it that bad.” Continued …

Destination Thailand Visa: a hugely successful move but with ongoing ambiguities

Nostradamus the seer was very wise not to include the still-evolving DTV in his futuristic predictions. Still, over the course of the last four months, we have learned a lot: Thai embassies and consulates worldwide interpret the published rules and required documentation at their own discretion.

In general, the rules have softened so that applicants can apply not only from their main base, but wherever they are on a visa run. But illegal applications from within Thailand remain a risky non-no. After all, your Thai immigration record will show when you are – or, in fact, are not – resident in the kingdom. Continued …

New Koh Kut tourism campaign launched

Koh Kut has many interesting beaches to offer that are often overlooked, according to the local Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office, which has launched a new campaign to promote the island’s attractions during the peak season from now until April.

Ferry service between mainland Trat and Koh Kut is available daily from 10am to 4pm, during which the seas, beaches, sky and forests are at their most beautiful, said Korakot Opas, director of the TAT office in the eastern province of Trat. Continued …

French tourist missing as Tour Boat Capsizes in Cheow Lan Dam in Storm

A long-tail tour boat carrying 13 people capsized in the Cheow Lan Dam lake (Ratchaprapha Dam) in Surat Thani province after being hit by a sudden storm, leaving one French tourist missing and others injured.

The incident occurred just before noon Saturday, near the scenic Three Friends Mountain (Khao Sam Kler), a popular tourist attraction in the area. The missing passenger, 83-year-old Rene Mary Corre, was among a group of 10 French tourists on a trip to Thailand, guided by a local tour company. Continued …

Singaporean held for flight bomb threat

Authorities have arrested a man holding a Singaporean passport following a bomb threat called in against an AirAsia flight departing from Bangkok to Hat Yai.

The threat was reported at 2.47pm last Thursday. A man, reportedly speaking Thai with an accent, contacted Don Mueang airport public relations and claimed that an AirAsia flight to Hat Yai in Songkhla was carrying explosives. Continued …

Israel raises travel warning for Thailand amid ‘persistence of threat’

The Israel National Security Council has raises the travel warning for Thailand to Level 2, nearly two weeks after an initial warning cited “the emergence of a potential threat to Israelis in the country.”

The warning comes after a Nov. 12 warning calling on Israelis to display increased vigilance, and the NSC says it is issuing the raised warning now “in light of the persistence of the threat.” Continued …

Vietjet Thailand to launch new Mumbai–Bangkok service

Expanding its presence in India, Vietjet Thailand has announced its inaugural Mumbai–Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) service, set to begin on Dec. 23.

In the early stage, the service will be operated with a daily flight; flight VZ761 will depart Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) at 00:45 AM and arrive in Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi: BKK) at 6:25 AM. The return flight VZ760 will depart Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) at 8:45 PM and land in Mumbai at 11:50 PM (all in local time). – traveltradejournal.com

Passengers record satisfaction with airlines

Airline passenger satisfaction remained high and stable this year, according to the International Air Transport Assn. (IATA), though the association suggested investing more in technology to meet customer demand.

IATA collected more than 10,000 responses from 200 countries to compile its Global Passenger Survey 2024. The survey revealed passenger satisfaction for flying was 82% in 2024, the same rate as last year, but an improvement from 75% recorded in 2019. Continued … 

Bangkok Bars Are Harnessing the Rising Wave of Boutique Thai Liquors

At Nuss Bar, a cocktail lounge nestled in Bangkok’s romantic Old Town district owned by award-winning bartender Ronnaporn Kanivichaporn and celebrity chef ThiTid “Ton” Tassanakajohn, every fanciful creation utilizes homegrown Thai craft liquors to their best advantage.

The seasonal menu plays on classic cocktails with riffs such as a lychee gimlet with Mork Kung Muang Lychee Spirits; a corn and coffee white Negroni with Sakthong Corn spirits and Nuss Bar Homemade Coffee Liqueur; and a Makmao sour with Winyaan Calamansi Spirits, Makmao Berry Juice, and Rice Paddy Herb. Continued …

7 best islands to visit in Thailand

Thailand is renowned for its breathtaking islands, offering diverse experiences ranging from tranquil beaches to vibrant nightlife. Here’s a guide to seven must-visit islands, how to reach them, and the top activities to enjoy.

Phuket

How to Go: Fly to Phuket International Airport or take a bus from Bangkok. What to Do: Visit Patong Beach for nightlife, explore Big Buddha and Old Phuket Town, and enjoy water sports at Kata and Karon beaches. Continued …

How Rolled Ice Cream Made Its Way From Thailand To Worldwide Fame

Once upon a time, social media was captivated by Thai rolled ice cream. Unlike your typical scoop, this sweet treat began as a liquid base, spread on a frosty pan, chopped, mixed with fresh fruits or toppings, and rolled into delicate strips right before your eyes. It was a show served in a cup with colorful toppings that quickly became an Instagram sensation.

The rolled ice cream trend, while not new, has been a street favorite in Thailand since its debut in 2009 as “I-TIM-PAD” by Kajitsa Premwimol. Gaining popularity across Thailand and neighboring countries, the concept made its way to the U.S. in 2015, when Premwimol and two friends opened I-CE-NY in New York City. Continued …

‘Greener’ transport key to growth

Across the Asia-Pacific region, especially in urban centers, electric cars and buses are increasingly replacing petrol-powered ones as a means of transportation. Aided by the ubiquity of smart devices, smart mobility and other transport innovations are significantly reshaping everyday life through ride-sharing apps, driver assistance technology and real-time traffic management.

With new highways and railways put in operation in the last decade, the region is getting yet more connected, while the ongoing digitalization of road, rail and maritime freight transport further improves efficiency and cost reduction. Continued …

Key points on the new funding deal from the UN climate talks agreement

In the wee hours Sunday at the United Nations climate talks, countries from around the world reached an agreement on how rich countries can cough up the funds to support poor countries in the face of climate change.

It’s a far-from-perfect arrangement, with many parties still deeply unsatisfied but some hopeful that the deal will be a step in the right direction. World Resources Institute President and CEO Ani Dasgupta called it “an important down payment toward a safer, more equitable future,” but added that the poorest and most vulnerable nations are “rightfully disappointed that wealthier countries didn’t put more money on the table when billions of people’s lives are at stake.” Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

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

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

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

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

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

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

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

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, medical tourism, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 18

Today’s news: Thailand to tax all income from abroad/Reader Feedback/Water supply disruption/Sports tourism’s impact on PKK/Muay Thai star in Hua Hin/WFFT tames unruly macaques/Heavy rains forecast/Ban stubble burning/Birth rate plunge/Sexual activity aids kidney stone expulsion/Srettha’s 30-Million-Baht Chartered Flight/Nursing a fragile economy/Retirement age could be increased/Soaring rice prices sow hope/Thailand Ranks Ninth in the World/Debt moratorium to benefit 7 million/Appealing for Swiss businesses/Marijuana for medical purposes/Bangkok Airways weighing passengers/Chiang Mai’s second airport/Phuket pushes health hub plan/Singapore Airlines flights to Thailand/Thailand’s best waterfalls/Phat Kraphao best stir-fry/Going wild in Kaeng Krachan/7 Thai Recipes/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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Thailand to tax all income from abroad starting 2024

Thailand’s revenue departments has released new guidelines that will see all income from abroad taxed as personal income tax regardless of whether it was earned income or savings.

According to the document, “…those that have earnings from occupation or business abroad or wealth that is located abroad…and has brought these assets into Thailand…must factor this into their personal income tax for the year.”

It is unclear at this point how this will apply to foreigners living in Thailand on a retirement visa. Continued …

“Thank you so much for the information you provide. You are making the decisions to retire more plausible. Visiting in Nov and again in Feb to this beautiful and historic area.” – RW

Water supply disruption affecting parts of Hua Hin

A significant decrease in the water levels at the Hua Na reservoir is causing water supply disruptions in various parts of Hua Hin.

Authorities reported on Sunday afternoon that the decline in reservoir levels might pose challenges for supply of water throughout the town. Continued …

Sports tourism’s impact on Prachuap Khiri Khan’s economy and culture

Hua Hin and the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan have quickly emerged as a hotspot for sports tourism. Events like the WTA Thailand Open 2023 and World Wai Kru Muay Thai ceremony, coupled with numerous marathons, golf tournaments, and beach sports, have spotlighted the area’s growing prowess in this tourism sector.

The revenue generated by sports tourism in this province is substantial, with sport tourists spending an impressive 3-4 times more per person than average tourists. Continued …

Muay Thai star Supergirl in steamy photo shoot in Hua Hin

Supergirl Jaroonsakgym showed a very different side to her personality last week in a steamy photo shoot for La Michaux. The Muay Thai star turned kickboxer looks like she could have a bright future in modeling.

This week, Wondergirl was in Hua Hin showing some Muay Thai moves to the Miss Thailand Universe contenders. Judging from these steamy photos, Supergirl could be in contention for a spot on that roster herself. Continued …

WFFT’s prototype enclosure tames unruly macaques

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) recently observed a prototype method aimed at helping manage macaques nationwide.

Department officials, including Director-general Atthaphon Charoenchansa, recently visited Khao Wang, a famous mountain in Phetchaburi, to view the prototype enclosure at the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) in Tha Yang district in the province. Continued …

Heavy rains for 51 provinces forecast

The Thai Meteorological Department issued a warning for heavy rains caused by monsoons affecting 51 provinces across the country, including Bangkok, with 70% of the areas expected to be hit hard.

The warning, issued today, September 18, forecasts continuous rain for the next 24 hours due to a moderate monsoon trough passing through the northern and upper northeastern regions. Continued …

Government urged to ban stubble burning

Thailand should impose a ban on burning of stubble from corn and other crops to reduce emissions of CO2, as the Europeon Union (EU) has started to enforce the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which allows for a price to be put on the carbon emitted during the production of carbon-intensive goods entering the EU, Thai Food Mill Assn.’s (TFMA) Pornsil Patcharintanakul said.

Pornsil said the PM2.5 dust, which has affected the northern part of Thailand, is a regional problem. Much of the polluting dust comes from neighboring countries, he said. Continued …

Birth rate plunge triggers health minister’s urgent action plan

The national birth rate in Thailand is on a steep decline, prompting urgent action from the country’s Minister of Public Health Chonlanan Srikaew.

He plans to push fertility to the forefront of the country’s national agenda, aiming for swift implementation within 100 days as part of the ministry’s “quick win” policies. Continued …

Sexual activity aids kidney stone expulsion, suggests Thai doctor’s study

A post made on the Facebook page of Dr. Sirianan Prasit highlighted an intriguing revelation: engaging in sexual activity can assist in the natural expulsion of kidney stones.

Dr. Sirianan shared insights from a conference he attended, where the intriguing research was presented. The study, which was conducted systematically and analyzed meticulously, compared individuals who engaged in sexual activity or self-pleasure at least three times a week with those who solely relied on medications to expel kidney stones or just drank water. Continued …

MPs Urged To Probe Srettha’s 30-Million-Baht Chartered Flight To US

Opposition MPs have been urged to investigate the unprecedented event in which Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will be flying a Thai Airway International airliner for as much as 30 million baht in chartered flight to the United States.

Somchai Srisutthiyakorn of the Thai Liberal Party yesterday called on the opposition lawmakers in general and the House Committee on Anti-corruption and Misconduct, in particular, to look into the event in which Srettha has managed to fly the THAI airliner on such a costly chartered flight to New York to attend the 78th United Nations General Assembly from today until Friday. Continued …

Nursing a fragile economy

With recession looming in many countries, fears over economic contraction remain in Thailand, particularly when the key contributor of exports still faces a stark outlook because of the weak economies of its trade partners. Continued …

Thai retirement age could be increased

The increasing elderly population in Thailand is prompting a serious discussion on raising the retirement age beyond 55 to accommodate an “aged society” and deal with an ongoing labor shortage in the country, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The Labor Ministry is interested in setting a new retirement age and needs more information, especially from the business sector. Continued …

Soaring rice prices sow hope – and trouble – for indebted Thai farmers

After finishing her latest rice harvest, Sripai Kaeo-eam hurriedly cleared her fields and planted a new crop in late August — ignoring a Thai government advisory to restrict further sowing of the grain this year to conserve water.

“This crop is our hope,” said the 58-year-old farmer in Thailand’s central Chai Nat province, pointing to her green paddy seedlings only a few inches tall. Continued …

Thailand Ranks Ninth in the World for Country Most Open for Business

The Royal Thai Embassy in the United States has announced through its Facebook page that Thailand has secured ninth place among 87 countries listed as the most open for business in 2023.

The annual ranking – known as ‘Best Country: Open for Business in 2023’ – is organized by the US News and World Report. Continued … 

Debt moratorium to benefit 7 million farmers and SMEs

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has announced that no more than 7 million farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will qualify for the initial phase of the debt moratorium.

The breakdown of this figure is expected to be around 4 million small-scale farmers and 3 million SMEs. The minister has refrained from providing specifics on the scope and limit of the debt suspension, with these details largely determined by the government’s fiscal responsibility in terms of interest payments to state financial institutions. Continued … 

Why Thailand is so appealing for Swiss businesses

How does David Stauffacher see China’s future? He frowns. “Who knows what’s yet to come?” Stauffacher is head of the Swiss-Thai Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok. He is not the only skeptical observer of China’s development.

For a long time, Western companies celebrated China as a land of unlimited opportunities. But the euphoria has now subsided. More and more companies are doubting the sustainability of their operations in Beijing or Shanghai. Continued …

Marijuana must be used for true medical purposes, says Thai health minister

Recreational use of marijuana is likely to become a thing of the past in Thailand with a major policy shift under the new government.

New Public Health Minister Dr. Cholnan Srikaew said cannabis is still a “narcotic”, citing the Public Health Ministry’s regulation that any extract with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of over 0.2% can be considered narcotic. Continued …

Weighing passengers to become standard for Bangkok Airways

Your chance to weigh in on airport and flight practices in Thailand may be coming, quite literally. Bangkok Airways is looking to join a number of international airlines that will be weighing passengers before boarding.

On Sept. 16, it became clear that airlines were getting a bit nosy about passengers’ pounds. Foreign giants like Korean Air and Air New Zealand initiated an eyebrow-raising rule, demanding that passengers step on the scales before they step onto the plane. Continued …

Chiang Mai executives push for second airport

Business executives in Chiang Mai urged Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to build a second airport in the northern capital and extend the operating hours of the current one, during a meeting at Chiang Mai University on Saturday.

They called for the second airport to be named Lanna International Airport, and said Chiang Mai International Airport’s operating hours should be extended to 24 hours a day to increase tourism. It currently closes at midnight. Continued …

Phuket pushes health hub plan

Phuket’s tourism and property development sectors have urged Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to quickly consider their proposal for an Andaman Wellness Economic Corridor (AWC) to keep pace with the global trend in wellness and boost related investment and the tourism industry. Continued … 

Singapore Airlines ramps up flights to Thailand

Singapore Airlines will ramp up its flight services between Singapore and Thailand for the northern winter 2023/2024 season starting Oct. 29.

Flights between Bangkok and Singapore will increase from five to six times daily, while flight services between Phuket and Singapore will increase from four to six times daily. Continued …

 

Thi Lor Su Waterfall, Tak

10 of Thailand’s best waterfalls

September in Thailand may feel like an endless loop of office meetings and spreadsheet blues, with no holiday in sight to soothe your soul. With more national holidays awaited in October, we’ve gathered you some lists of Thailand’s best waterfalls to splash your spreadsheet worries away.

Arguably one of the most well-known waterfalls in Thailand, Erawan Fall features seven different tiers, which can take visitors around three hours to reach the top. The name derives from the mythical three-headed elephant, which resembles the shapes of the falls. Despite how it sounds, Erawan Fall is quite beginner-friendly to reach to the top. Continued …

Thailand’s Phat Kraphao best stir-fry in the world – TasteAtlas.com

Phat Kraphao is the most basic dish available at most street food stalls. It is sometimes called the “thoughtless” dish, for people who have no idea what to order and now it has topped the “Best Stir-Fries in the World 2023” list, released by TasteAtlas.com Saturday.

Another favorite, Pad Thai, was placed 8th with a score of 4.4, while Phat Kraphao scored 4.8. South Korea’s Dak Galbi comes second with 4.7. Continued …

Going wild in Kaeng Krachan

It’s 3pm and the pickup truck growls as it negotiates the winding road toward Thailand’s largest national park, Kaeng Krachan. Samrong Meekaew, an enthusiastic park ranger and guide, runs visitors through the wildlife they are likely to encounter – hornbills, dusky leaf monkeys, black giant squirrels, pheasants, red junglefowl, and elephants.

The mention of elephants jolts some travelers out of their somnolent state. “Elephants? I thought this was supposed to be an easy trip, full of birdsong and misty mountain valleys. I don’t recall anyone mentioning wild elephants,” the concerned traveler says. Continued …

7 Thai Recipes Every Food Lover Should Explore

Thai food has become a global phenomenon thanks to its distinctive combinations of flavors, aromas, and textures, from the well-known Pad Thai to the zesty Som Tum and the cozy Mango Sticky Rice.

Thai food has a unique power of attracting people toward its spicy and tangy flavors. Thai food entices the senses with its delightful fusion of vivacious flavors, fragrant herbs, and alluring textures. These seven must-try Thai recipes provide an exciting culinary journey, whether you are an experienced fan of Thai food or a curious newcomer. Continued …

Ex-Pats Share Differences Between Working In The US Vs. The Rest Of The World

Recently, I asked Americans in the BuzzFeed community to share their experiences living and working abroad, and how they compared to the U.S. The replies were thorough, thoughtful, and eye-opening. And TBH, I learned other countries treat their workers muuuuch different. So, let’s hear what everyone had to say. Continued …

Indonesia seeks investors to develop new capital

The Indonesian government is rolling out incentives to attract Thai companies to invest in its new capital city, Nusantara. Nusantara will be more than just a new capital city, it will be the nation’s administrative capital, and epicenter for economic growth for both the country and the wider Southeast Asian region. Continued …

Malaysian villagers get 3.6 tons of chicken for picking up tons of plastic

Water village residents on Gaya Island in Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah, had a blast collecting trash in exchange for chicken on Sunday. The Shangri-la Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa organized the event to encourage the community to keep the environment clean. Continued …

Australian fined for surfing with python

As if sharks were not already enough to worry about, an Australian surfer has been seen paddling out with a python coiled around his neck. The intrepid surfer caused a stir on Australia’s Gold Coast after footage emerged of him carving through the azure waves while carrying his pet carpet python. 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-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

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

 

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

Friday’s news-July 28

  • Fishing pier walking street opened for holiday weekend/
  • Hundreds of amateur footballers to descend on Hua Hin/
  • Phetchaburi to host 2-day food and art event/
  • Long holiday to boost domestic tourism, hotel occupancy/
  • PKK monkeys to Phuket? Relocation tackles rampant macaque issue in Phetchaburi and PKK/
  • Thailand election: New Thai PM could be elected on Aug. 4, but…/Thaksin’s pending return signals done deal?/’Deal struck on next govt’/
  • Economy: Fuel tariff for Sept-Dec lowered, but private sector opposes it/Thai CEOs’ Top Concerns: Government Formation Delay and Global Demand Slowdown/Climatologist paints bleak picture for Thai farmers/Household debt rose to an average of 559,408 baht this year/
  • Tourism: Russian Elites Transforming Thailand’s Biggest Island as They Become More Unwelcome in the West/TAT Adopts Cautious Approach to Visa Fee Waiver Scheme/41st Thailand Tourism Festival in Bangkok from Aug. 2-6/What Happened to All Those Chinese Tourists?/
  • Thailand Experience: A visitor’s guide to ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand/Top 10 travel tips for your first trip to Thailand/Thailand: Why Many Men Become ‘Short-Term’ Monks/
  • International: Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi moved from prison/
  • 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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Fishing pier walking street opened for holiday weekend

The Saphan Pla Walking Street on the Hua Hin fishing pier will be open for an additional day for the upcoming long weekend. The walking street will be open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, from 5pm.

Hundreds of amateur footballers to descend on Hua Hin

Hua Hin is gearing up to host not one, but two major amateur football tournaments this September. Organized by the Viking Club Hua Hin, these tournaments are set to become annual fixtures in Hua Hin’s sporting calendar.

With the True Arena Hua Hin sports complex boasting pristine FIFA-standard real grass pitches, the stage is set for what are expected to be eagerly anticipated events. Continued …

Phetchaburi to host 2-day food and art event

The Phetchaburi Creative City of Gastronomy event is a two-day cultural and culinary celebration that will feature local cuisine, food demonstrations, free food tastings, cultural performances and folk entertainment, contemporary music performances, goldsmith and other local craftsmanship demonstrations, and local product sales.

The event will be held at the Wat Yai Suwannaram, and Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) in Phetchaburi from 4-10pm, Aug 45.

The event will feature: performances and demonstrations of culture/local food from eight districts; exhibitions and demonstrations of Phetchaburi’s craftsmanship; an exhibition of cultural products by CPOT; contemporary art performances and demonstrations; a photography exhibition of the Eat & Art project; music and local cultural performances; a community tourism exhibition; a creative food exhibition by Rajabhat Phetchaburi University; an innovative food exhibition by Silpakorn University; a cultural market; exhibitions from various organizations/educational institutions.

For more information, contact the Phetchaburi Provincial Office of Culture at 03242 4324; map location.

Long holiday to boost domestic tourism, hotel occupancy

The six-day holiday that starts today will generate up to 1.66 billion baht in domestic tourism from nearly 5 million trips made by Thais, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said on Thursday.

The long break starts on Friday (July 28), His Majesty the King’s birthday, and continues until Wednesday (Aug. 2), the start of Buddhist Lent. The caretaker government on Tuesday designated Monday (July 31) as an extra public holiday to give Thais more time to head back to their home towns. Continued …

PKK monkeys to Phuket? Relocation tackles rampant macaque issue in Phetchaburi and PKK

In what’s being hailed as a successful initiative, multiple crab-eating macaques have been relocated from communities within Phetchaburi to an island in Phuket, under a pilot project. The venture has cleared the road for the relocation of more from the rapidly increasing macaque population in the province, as well as the neighboring Prachuap Khiri Khan, according to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.

The project is part of the ministry’s efforts to mitigate the damaging effects seen on local communities due to the rapid surge in the macaque population, as advised by Yuthapol Angkinan, consultant to the Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment. Continued … 

New Thai PM could be elected on Aug. 4, but…

Fugitive, and former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra met with former Future Forward Leader and 2019 PM candidate Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit on Tuesday this week, adding more spice to the messy ingredients already in play for the next meeting of Parliament.

House Speaker and parliament president Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has called a meeting for next Friday, Aug. 4, to elect Thailand’s’s next PM. Wan says that if the Constitutional Court rejects the petition challenging lawmakers’ blocking of Pita Limjaroenrat’s re-nomination, the vote can go ahead. Continued …

Thaksin’s pending return signals done deal?

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra wants his planned return to Thailand to be seen as a family affair. But few are fooled by his latest political act.

All of a sudden, Thaksin has become a key player in the weeks-long political haggling over the formation of a post-election coalition. His announcement that he will finally end his self-exile and fly back to Bangkok on Aug. 10 is seen by many as a signal that a deal has already been sealed. Continued …

‘Deal struck on next govt’

A political deal involving the formation of a new government has been reached in Hong Kong between ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the leader of the Progressive Movement, ahead of Thaksin’s plan to return to Thailand, a source in the Pheu Thai Party says.

The source said Thanathorn flew to Hong Kong on Monday morning and returned to Thailand the following day. Continued …

Fuel tariff for Sept-Dec lowered, but private sector opposes it

The private sector is not happy with the electricity cost of 4.45 baht per unit from September to December announced on Thursday by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), saying that positive energy-related factors should have pushed it lower.

The ERC announced a fuel tariff (Ft) of 66.89 satang per unit, which is equivalent to 4.45 baht per unit of electricity for the period September to December. Continued …

Thai CEOs’ Top Concerns: Government Formation Delay and Global Demand Slowdown

According to a survey by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) with a sample size of 258 CEOs from 45 industries, their top domestic concerns include:

  1. The delay in government formation and political conflicts after the election (81%)
  2. High production costs, including electricity, energy, raw materials, and logistics (76.4%) Continued …

Climatologist paints bleak picture for Thai farmers

More than 20 million Thai farming households are currently living on or below the poverty line due to various factors, including the fear of El Nino, which severely affects and increases hardships for those who work the land.

Dr. Seri Suprathit, director of Rangsit University’s Climate Change and Disaster Center, says that comprehensive reforms are needed to increase agricultural productivity, reduce water usage, and implement innovative solutions for survival. Continued …

Household debt rose to an average of 559,408 baht this year

Household debt in Thailand has climbed to an average of 559,408 baht per household, an increase of 11% compared to last year, due to slow economic recovery, the COVID19 pandemic, political conflict and geopolitical issues.

The Bank of Thailand is implementing measures to tackle the debt problem, adding that there is an urgent need for financial education and plans to manage expenditure in the long term. Given that household debt accounts for 90% of Thailand’s GDP, the forecast for next year’s GDP indicates a positive economic outlook. Continued …

Russian Elites Transforming Thailand’s Biggest Island as They Become More Unwelcome in the West

Thailand has long been a top destination for tourists. But one group in particular is now flocking to Phuket, the country’s largest island: Russian elites.

While many Russians are getting turned away from Western countries, thanks to Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine, they’re finding a friendly welcome in Thailand, Bloomberg reported on Thursday. From January to June of this year, more than 790,000 Russian nationals arrived in the country, a whopping 1,000% increase from the same time last year, according to the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports. More than half of those people flew into Phuket, with Russians being the No. 1 group of tourists to the island, the Phuket Tourist Assn. said. Continued …

TAT Adopts Cautious Approach to Visa Fee Waiver Scheme

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is taking a cautious approach toward implementing a visa fee waiver scheme to attract more foreign tourists.

In response to tourism operators urging the government to offer a visa fee waiver scheme to stimulate the market, TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn stated that it may not be the best strategy, given that the main issue is currently the lengthy waiting period during the visa application process. Continued …

41st Thailand Tourism Festival in Bangkok from Aug. 2-6

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has scheduled the 41st Thailand Tourism Festival (TTF 2023) from Aug. 2-6, at Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) under the concept of “Inno-Cultural for Sustainable Tourism” representing a combination of innovative technology and culture, unseen travel experiences, and sustainability.

Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT governor, said “This year’s Thailand Tourism Festival is conceptualized to bring the wonders of Thailand for a fantastic five-day showcase. The event will focus on promoting unseen tourist attractions, telling untold stories, sharing unlimited experiences, and highlighting amazing travel opportunities that are unpredictable beyond expectations, unbelievable in their appeal, and unforgettable in the impressions they will create.” Continued …

What Happened to All Those Chinese Tourists?

Before Covid, Malaysia’s luxury mall beneath Kuala Lumpur’s iconic Petronas Towers echoed with the sound of Chinese tourists and their dialects. But recently, during a busy dinner hour, they were missing.

Din, the mall’s outlet of famous Taiwanese chain Din Tai Fung, a favorite of Chinese tourists, was half-full with local Malaysians and Middle Eastern customers. When I asked a cashier whether they had served many Chinese lately, she shook her head with a tight smile. That’s a problem. Continued … 

A visitor’s guide to ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand

If you are a tourist, a trip to Thailand is incomplete without seeing the country’s extraordinary elephants. These majestic animals have been an integral part of Thailand’s culture and history, used for a variety of purposes, such as for transportation, war, logging (in the timber industry), and now tourism.

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Currently, there are around 3,500 – 4,000 captive elephants in Thailand. Wild elephant numbers range from 3,000 – 3,700, with declining population numbers every year. Continued …

Top 10 travel tips for your first trip to Thailand

Thailand, a captivating destination renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, cultural heritage, and lively urban centers, has long captured the hearts of travelers worldwide.

If you plan your inaugural voyage to this enchanting country, meticulous preparation will ensure you make the most of your experience. Following are indispensable tips for an unforgettable trip to Thailand: Continued … 

Thailand: Why Many Men Become ‘Short-Term’ Monks

After graduating from university, Palath Dilokloetthanakorn, then 22, did what many other young Thai men do before starting their careers: he joined a Buddhist monastery.

“It just felt like a tradition I had to do for my parents, especially as their eldest son,” he said, noting his parents were overjoyed on the day he was ordained. Continued …

Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi moved from prison

Myanmar civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was ousted in a 2021 military coup, has been moved from prison to a government building, an official from her party said Friday. 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-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

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