Songkran: World’s biggest water fight/59 Dead, 458 Injured/Chatuchak building disaster/Building Collapse Truth Not Guaranteed/Elephant rescued by WFFT/Uncertain weather and storm risks/Multiple earthquakes strike Thailand/To stamp out illegal condo rentals/Nestlé Wins Legal Battle/Explosion Injures Four Paramilitary Officers/Lisa’s Coachella show/Companies responsible for scams/ECONOMY: Thailand Crafts Trade Strategy/To negotiate US trade policies/Trump downplays tariffs walk-back/Apple was on brink of crisis/TOURISM: 7 clever tourist scams/Turned its back on backpackers/Regional airports busy/Hippo dolls Suvarnabhumi/Second tourist boat fire/Tourists protest inflated water prices/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Live well for under $1,000 monthly/The forgotten Thai island/100 Thai dishes you must try/Guide for Northern Thailand/Top Places To Visit In Phuket/CLIMATE THAILAND: Triple garbage collection fees/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Songkran: The world’s biggest water fight
Every year from April 13-15, Thais across the country cool off and celebrate new beginnings with what is arguably the nation’s largest and most important festival: Songkran. Tied to the Thai New Year and the close of the annual rice harvest season, this annual celebration is all about purification, honoring elders and fostering a sense of renewal. However, it’s most well-known among travelers as a raucous country-wide splash fest.
“The most famous part of the festival is the massive water fights,” explained Worapa Angkhasirisap,director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. “People of all ages take to the streets armed with water guns and buckets.” Continued …
59 Dead, 458 Injured in First Two Days of Songkran Holiday Travel
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reported statistics on the second day of Thailand’s Songkran holiday road safety campaign, with 59 people killed and 458 injured in road crashes nationwide.
On April 12 alone, there were 248 road accidents, resulting in 30 fatalities and 257 injuries. The most common causes were speeding (39.9%), drink-driving (22.2%), and abrupt lane cutting (21%). Motorcycles were involved in 85.8% of the accidents, with most occurring on straight roads (83.9%). Continued …
Chatuchak building disaster finds more dead, questions to be asked about Chinese firms
Yesterday, hopes were dying for any survivors at the collapsed Auditor General building in Chatuchak. At length, the work continues as a possible rescue mission. However, before the dust even begins to settle on the Chatuchak Auditor General building disaster, looming questions arise about the involvement of Chinese contractors.
Certainly, the two firms involved are substantial entities, and yet the questions that are being asked by lawmakers, the police, and regulatory agencies cannot be silenced. Continued …
Truth of the Collapsed State Audit Office Building Is Not Guaranteed
Although Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had originally given seven days for related government agencies to report to her as to why the 33-story State Audit Office building was the only building in Thailand that collapsed due to the tremors from the deadly 7.7 magnitude quake in Myanmar two weeks ago, she has since extended the deadline to 90 days.
Getting the answer as to what went wrong is imperative for the country to lay down further measures, if needed, to prevent the tragedy from striking again. This is not going to be easy, as the co-constructors Italian-Thai Development and China Railway Number 10 – both are major firms, the latter a Chinese state enterprise, basically with the backing of the Chinese state itself as made apparent by a recent report that state-controlled Chinese media Xinhua news agency has deleted news about the collapsed building in connection with China Railway Number 10. Continued …
Traumatized elephant rescued by WFFT after nearly 30 years of abuse
For almost 30 years, Boon Dee was forced into back-breaking labor in the tourist camps of Pattaya. The poor animal carried endless busloads of tourists on her aching back, day after painful day.
By the time she was rescued by Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT), Boon Dee was emaciated, nearly blind in her right eye, and her skin was marred by deep, painful abscesses that told the story of severe neglect. Continued …
Neutral phase brings uncertain weather and storm risks
The La Niña phenomenon, which emerged earlier this year, dissipated rapidly within three months. The world is now in a neutral phase of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
La Niña, the opposite of the El Niño phenomenon, is characterized by irregular and unusually cold ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, which, in turn, affect global weather patterns. Meteorologists are closely monitoring both La Niña and El Niño events, as these phenomena tend to influence global weather in relatively consistent and predictable ways. Continued …
Multiple earthquakes strike Thailand and Myanmar
A series of earthquakes were reported this morning in Thailand and Myanmar, with the strongest tremor measuring 5.3 magnitude.
The Earthquake Observation Division of the Thai Department of Meteorology (TMD) reported that the epicenter of this quake was located in Myanmar, approximately 10 kilometers from the Thai border. Several smaller earthquakes were also recorded in Myanmar, ranging from 2.0 to 3.9 magnitude. Continued …
New moves to stamp out illegal condo rentals
State agencies are being urged to work with online accommodation booking platforms to develop a system that allows only properly registered hotels and accommodation providers to accept online bookings.
The move comes from the House Committee on Consumer Protection following recent talks with state bodies and online travel agencies regarding the problem of condo units being illegally rented out, in breach of the Hotel Act 2004. Unlawful renting of condo units is commonly found through online booking platforms, so is partially the responsibility of those platforms. Continued …
Nestlé Wins Legal Battle Over Nescafé Rights in Thailand
Nestlé has regained the exclusive right to distribute Nescafé in Thailand following a high-profile legal dispute that has gripped the country’s business community.
The Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court has ruled in favor of the global food and beverage giant, declaring Nestlé the sole rightful owner of the “Nescafé” trademark in Thailand. The decision clears the way for Nestlé to resume production, importation, and sales of its instant coffee brand across the country. Continued …
Explosion Behind Temple in Narathiwat Injures Four Paramilitary Officers
Four paramilitary officers were injured yesterday in an early morning explosion behind Chai Rattana Ram Temple (Ban Thai Temple) in Rangae District, Narathiwat Province, in what authorities believe was a targeted attack.
According to initial investigations, an unknown assailant drove a motorcycle with a sidecar carrying an improvised explosive device (IED) and parked it near the wall behind the temple, adjacent to the sleeping quarters of the 4503rd Ranger Company. After placing the vehicle, the perpetrator was reportedly picked up by another vehicle. Continued …
More than a stage, Lisa’s Coachella show becomes a statement
Lisa of Blackpink proved just how comfortable she is on the global stage during her solo debut at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California, on Friday.
Marking her third appearance at Coachella — following previous performances with Blackpink in 2019 and 2023 — Lisa made history as the first K-pop act to perform on the festival’s stage three times. Her 55-minute set, comprising 13 songs, showcased her musical versatility, commanding stage presence, and fashion-forward artistry. Continued …
Banks, telecoms, social media companies responsible for scams
A new emergency decree took effect yesterday that requires financial institutions, telecom operators, and social media platform owners to share responsibility for failing to curb scams.
The decree on measures to prevent and suppress technology crime requires financial institutions and business operators to reveal information about accounts and financial transactions suspected of being involved in scams. Continued …
Thailand Crafts Trade Strategy to Offset US Tariff Impact
Thailand has initiated a comprehensive craft trade strategy aimed at reducing the adverse effects of U.S. tariffs on its export sector. The plan focuses on diversifying export markets, enhancing the quality and uniqueness of Thai products, and promoting innovation in local industries.
By collaborating with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the government aims to strengthen the global competitiveness of Thai crafts while reducing dependency on traditional markets. Continued …
Thailand to negotiate US trade policies, avoid pork imports
Finance Minister Pichet Choonhavan outlined five strategies to address the issue of the so-called Trump tariffs, emphasizing that Thailand will not import pork due to concerns about the impact on domestic producers.
Following a meeting on Thailand’s approach to U.. trade policies, Pichet revealed that while no specific date has been set for negotiations with the United States, discussions may occur soon, possibly within this month. These talks are expected to include representatives from the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and key figures associated with President Donald Trump. Continued …
Trump downplays tariffs walk-back, says no country ‘off the hook’
U.S. President Donald Trump warned yesterday that no country would be getting “off the hook” on tariffs despite a 90-day reprieve on some levies, while also downplaying exemptions for Chinese technology.
Global markets have been on a roller coaster since Trump’s April 2 tariffs announcement, declining sharply before partially recovering with his 90-day pause on the steepest rates last week. Continued …
Apple was on brink of crisis before tariff concession from Trump
Apple Inc. has managed to dodge its biggest crisis since the pandemic — for the moment, at least.
Donald Trump’s 125% tariffs on goods produced in China threatened to upend its supply chain as seriously as the Covid snarls did five years ago. On Friday night, the U.S. president handed Apple (a major contributor to his winning presidential campaign) a major victory, exempting many popular consumer electronics. That includes iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches and AirTags. Continued …
7 clever tourist scams in Bangkok you’ll never see coming
Being a tourist in a new city is an adventure, but it can also leave you vulnerable to scams. And let’s be clear; there’s a world of difference between a local trying to make an honest living and those who exploit unsuspecting visitors.
Here are seven of the most ingenious tourist scams that occur in Bangkok. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill overpriced souvenirs; these are calculated schemes designed to outsmart even the most seasoned travelers. Continued …
How Thailand turned its back on its backpackers
White Lotus fans love their cryptic mysteries, but one question has been on my mind recently. Do you think Piper gets to fulfill her dream and decamp to Koh Samui to spend her formative years in a Buddhist monastery?
Admittedly, it might not be the most pressing question in Mike White’s hit series, but it is a rather topical one, given that the Thai government might have just made things even trickier for poor Piper. Thailand is set to slash visa-free stays in half, meaning that tourists can no longer stay more than 30 days without breaking the law. Continued …
Regional airports busy as revelers jet in for Songkran
Regional airports across Thailand are seeing an influx of domestic and international passengers as the country celebrates the Songkran festival.
On the first day of Songkran yesterday, major cities such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Songkhla, and Khon Kaen organized their own Songkran events, which drew thousands of tourists who were keen to participate in the annual festivities. Continued …
Hippo dolls delight Songkran travelers at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Passengers collecting their luggage at Suvarnabhumi Airport between April 11 and 17 will receive special souvenirs — plush dolls of Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippopotamus.
The giveaway is part of a series of Songkran celebrations at the airport, which also includes Thai cultural performances and the distribution of festive gifts. The activities are aimed at creating a warm and joyful atmosphere for travelers during Thailand’s most significant festival. Continued …
Tourist boat fire the second in two days
Twenty-six people had to abandon their diving boat in the early hours of Saturday when it caught fire 13 nautical miles off Pakarang beach in Khao Lak in Phangnga province.
The Maritime Enforcement Command Center was alerted via hotline around 4.15am that the boat, carrying 16 Thai and foreign passengers and 10 crew members, was ablaze in Takua Pa district. Continued and video …
Tourists protest inflated water prices at Hat Yai Songkran festival
Tourists at the Hat Yai Midnight Songkran festival in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province, raised concerns over the inflated prices of water sold for the event, with costs reaching 1,000 baht for 200 liters.
Many Malaysian tourists participated in the festival, attracting vendors who charged significantly higher prices for water, claiming it included ice. Songkhla Gov. Chotinrin Kerdsom responded by ordering a strict investigation into the issue of overpriced water at the festival. Continued …
6 cities in Thailand you can live well for under $1,000 monthly as a digital nomad
Thailand has long been a magnet for digital nomads, blending affordability with a rich tapestry of culture, stunning landscapes, and modern conveniences.
Its tropical climate, warm locals, and diverse locales — from bustling cities to serene beaches — make it an irresistible destination for remote workers seeking a balance between productivity and adventure. With so many options, though, choosing the right spot to plant your flag (and your laptop) can feel daunting. Continued …
The forgotten Thai island just three hours from Bangkok
I watched from the top deck as our catamaran slipped gently across the Gulf of Thailand, approaching the jungle-shrouded Ao Salat Pier. A golden Buddha statue peered out through the greenery, towering above a dock of wooden pallet crates where a low-slung port office was shaded by a lopsided piece of plastic sheeting. Beneath it sat a beaming port attendant, all smiles for the intrepid travelers who were soon to disembark on the island of Koh Kood.
Located in the Trat province of the Gulf of Thailand, just a few miles from the border of Cambodia, this pretty little island is one of a handful in the area – though most, unlike Koh Chang, Koh Kood and Ko Mak are uninhabited. Continued …
100 Thai dishes you must try in Thailand
TasteAtlas, a website that compiles restaurants, recipes, dishes, and local ingredients from around the world — along with reviews from global food critics and recognized as an encyclopedia of local cuisine — has recommended must-try Thai flavors for travelers visiting Thailand.
It ranked the Top 100 Thai dishes, while also highlighting fascinating aspects of Thai cuisine, categorized into five sections: best Thai foods, best Thai food producers, best Thai food products, Thai foods database, and Thai foods map. Continued …
An American’s Guide for Northern Thailand
Thailand attracts hordes of international tourists to its vibrant (some might say chaotic) cities and nature-immersed towns. Palpable demographics include those of nearby Asian nations, youthful Europeans indulging in a gap year, and an eclectic mix of the British Commonwealth.
Given the delicious food, seductive weather, and novel but accessible culture, visitors should seriously consider swapping out their usual vacation with a Thai itinerary. I know “The White Lotus” might have you salivating for the south, but after spending months in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pai, I’m here to champion the north. Here’s everything you need to know to make it happen. Continued …
Top Places To Visit In Phuket For The Ultimate Thai Getaway
Phuket may have a population of just over half a million and an area of a mere 12.56 square kilometers (for comparison, Bangkok is 1,568.7 square kilometers), but some would say it has a greater density of experiences than any other province of Thailand. Add nine months of sunshine, clear blue waters, a late-night culture like no other, and a burgeoning dining scene, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, and it is already an unbeatable destination.
And just a 1.5-hour flight from the capital, perhaps you can see why data released by Thailand’s Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Sports revealed it led tourism income with Bt497,523.93 million in 2024. Here we reveal the best places to visit in Phuket, where to stay and the restaurants you absolutely shouldn’t skip. Continued …
Bangkok to triple garbage collection fees starting in October
At a meeting of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) department chiefs, the Environment Department presented updates on the revised BMA ordinance on waste-management fees, officially published in the Royal Gazette on March 31.
The ordinance concerning waste-management fees under public health laws will come into effect 180 days after its publication. Its aim is to incentivize households to reduce and sort waste at the source, while aligning the waste fee structure with current economic and waste management realities. Continued …
Oil extends decline as US-China trade war weighs on global growth outlook
Oil prices fell today on concerns the escalating trade war between the United States and China would weaken global economic growth and dent fuel demand. Brent crude futures were down 29 cents, or 0.45%, at $64.47 a barrel. U.S. West Texas intermediate crude futures were trading at $61.23 a barrel, down 27 cents, or 0.44%. Continued …
Effects of the Trade War are Beginning to Affect Consumers
U.S. President Trump’s tariffs on trading allies are beginning to affect consumers and businesses. Market reactions indicate growing concerns over increased costs and trade tensions, which may lead to shifts in supply chains and consumer prices. The ongoing trade policies are fostering uncertainty in various sectors, prompting both consumers and businesses to reassess their financial strategies. Continued …
Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
- The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
- It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm
- Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27
Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):
Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm
Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm
Hua Hin train schedule
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.
Emergency hotline numbers:
- Emergency hotline – 191
- Emergency medical services – 1554
- Water accident – 1196
- Motorway hotline – 1586
- Emergency medical – 1669
- Highway police – 1193
- Tourist police – 1155
- Bus ticket – 1490
- Department of Highways – 1586
- State Railway – 1590
IMF predicts Thailand’s real GDP growth at 2.7% in 2024, 2.9% in 2025
Koh Samui enjoying a White Lotus boom
US Tops Global Soft Power as China Surges Past UK; Thailand Holds at 39