Harrowing Gym Experience in Hua Hin/Police detain migrants in Cha Am/Kasikorn Bank cardless withdrawals/Fraudulent medical practice group in Cha Am/Kaeng Krachan butterfly-watching/New Hurdles in Opening Thai Bank Accounts/Relaxation of Alcohol Sale/Food Is Medicine/30% chance of rain/Leopard Cat Cub Rescued/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: To restructure nine industries/An elusive growth target/Thais cutting spending/Q4 GDP grows 3.2%/Thai influencer numbers/ThaiBev’s liquor earnings drop/ASEAN needs to recalibrate/TOURISM: Pai Struggles with Tourism Boom/Where has ‘Thailand’ gone?/Medical and wellness tourism/Shift to wealthier, older demographic/Thailand draws Kiwis/Taiwan Labels Thailand as High-Risk/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: ‘The White Lotus’ in Thailand/Exploring Thai curries/Ao Ai Yo Forest’s rich biodiversity/Thailand’s Pink Noodles/Nan, Sukhothai stars/Exploring Little Myanmar in Bangkok/CLIMATE THAILAND: Investors are fleeing climate change/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
My Harrowing Gym Experience in Hua Hin
I’ve joined an exclusive gym here in my new hometown of Hua Hin, a fitness mecca where only the rich and astute, like myself, may enter. This is where I’ll get back in shape, turn my life around, reinvent myself, and most importantly meet a proper woman.
Mrs. Smith is out of the picture now. She got too fat while I was away to even try and plonk her anymore, so I gave her 6 million baht, cash, and sent her on her way. No more tatted bar prozzies, maybe just on special occasions. From now on, it’s only classy, self-made Thai ladies with abs and Platinum Amex cards for Bob. Or so I thought. Continued …
Police detain 141 Myanmar migrants in Cha Am truck operation
Police in Cha am detained over 100 Myanmar migrant workers found crammed into the back of a six-wheeled truck.
The driver confessed to transporting the workers from Damnoen Saduak district to a destination in the south. The incident occurred Friday when police set up a checkpoint on the southbound side of Phetkasem Road in Khao Yai subdistrict, Cha Am district, Phetchaburi province. A green Hino truck covered with a black tarpaulin was stopped for inspection. Continued …
Kasikorn Bank now allows cardless withdrawals from other banks
Fraudulent medical practice group arrested in Cha Am
Kaeng Krachan butterfly-watching season opens
Foreigners Face New Hurdles in Opening Thai Bank Accounts
Foreign nationals in Thailand are encountering increased difficulties when trying to open bank accounts, following a new crackdown aimed at combating financial crime. This development is part of a broader initiative by the Thai government, led by the Bank of Thailand, targeting mule accounts linked to fraud and money-laundering activities.
Starting today, even foreigners applying for bank accounts required for visas, such as the Destination Thailand Visa or the non-immigrant “O” retirement permit, face potential challenges. Popular agencies in places like Jomtien have announced they can no longer assist foreigners in opening accounts until the situation stabilizes. Continued …
Relaxation of Alcohol Sale: To Do or Not To Do?
Last week’s government-proposed lifting of the bans on alcohol sale on Buddhist holidays and from 2pm to 5pm in a bid to further boost tourism revenue, and to be in line with this year’s tourism theme, “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year”, have raised concerns among religious people, as well as health-conscious anti-alcohol campaigners.
There are concerns that more Thais, particularly young people, would become alcoholic, that there will be more alcoholics, higher medical costs, road accidents and that it is something that is not approved in religious teachings, particularly in Buddhism and Islam. Continued …
Food Is Medicine — Health Innovation for Modern People
Food is the foundation of good health, yet in today’s world, many people find themselves “taking medicine as food” rather than using food as a natural means to maintain well-being.
“Today, the global population is experiencing significant health challenges due to fast-paced lifestyles, improper dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and high levels of stress. These factors have contributed to a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, kidney disease, and cancer,” said Associate Professor Dr. Kitipong Assatarakul, head of the Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University. Citing the 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report, he highlighted that an estimated 41 million people worldwide succumb to NCDs each year. Continued …
30% chance of rain, strong winds in Bangkok and upper Thailand
The Meteorological Department forecasts for today, 30% chance of thunderstorms and strong winds in Bangkok, while upper Thailand will experience hot weather during the day.
A new moderate high-pressure system or cold air mass from China has extended over the upper northeastern region and the South China Sea. This condition causes southerly and southeasterly winds to bring moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, covering the lower northern region, northeastern region, central region (including Bangkok and its vicinity), and the eastern region. Continued …
Endangered Leopard Cat Cub Rescued from Roadside in Lampang After Fleeing Wildfire
- Wanted American Arrested in Phuket for Illegal Business Operations – Continued …
- Russian Woman and Myanmar Employee Arrested for Selling Illegal E-Cigarettes – Continued …
- French National Detained for Illegal Work in Patong – Continued …
- Russian Man and Three Thai Nationals Arrested in Phuket – Continued …
- Pakistanis Arrested for Illegal Herb Sales in Patong – Continued …
- Chinese Man Faces Arrest Over Death of Thai Woman in Hotel Room – Continued …
- Four illegal foreign nationals nabbed in Pattaya swoop – Continued …
Measures being advanced to restructure nine target industries
Industry restructuring is a key engine for driving the country’s economy, particularly in boosting the national GDP. For this reason, the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) is advancing measures to restructure nine target industries as part of the policy “Industrial Reform for a Modern, Clean, Convenient, and Transparent Economy”, aiming to increase gross domestic product by at least 1%.
The plan is expected to be presented to the Cabinet this month. The nine target industries for restructuring and boosting GDP are: Automotive industry; plastics industry; medical device industry; steel and metallurgy industry; robotics and automation industry; electrical and electronics industry; bio-based industry; food industry; and textile and garment industry. Continued …
Gauging an elusive growth target
With the first month of 2025 passed, the economy still faces uncertainty and unclear growth drivers. The government set an ambitious target, aiming to increase GDP growth to a range of 3%-3.5% this year, banking on tourism, foreign investment and state stimulus measures.
Yet, many industries are sceptical about this goal as tourism slows with the low season approaching. Foreign direct investment (FDI) has not reached anticipated levels, while the government’s 10,000-baht cash handout was widely criticized by analysts as a feeble attempt to generate economic momentum. Continued …
February survey shows Thais cutting spending amid economic concerns
A recent survey shows Thais remain cautious with spending in February due to economic concerns. Consumer spending declined as many prioritize emergency savings. People are focusing on work without long holidays, choosing financial stability over leisure.
Hakuhodo Institute of Life and Living ASEAN (THAILAND) released its first survey of 2025 in February, following the New Year celebrations. The Happiness Index declined, aligning with a decrease in consumer spending for the month. Continued …
Thai Q4 GDP grows 3.2% y/y, below forecast
Thailand’s economy grew 3.2% in the final quarter of 2024 from a year earlier, official data showed today, missing the median forecast of 3.9% growth in a Reuters poll of analysts.
On a quarterly basis, Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy grew a seasonally adjusted 0.4% in the October-December quarter, data from the National Economic and Social Development Council showed, below the poll forecast of 0.7% growth. Continued …
Thai influencer numbers expected to hit 3 million
The number of online content creators popular enough to consider themselves influencers in Thailand and make money out of posting content on social media is expected to reach 3 million this year, up from about 2 million last year, says a media buying and marketing strategy planning firm.
That’s about 5% of the population, said Pawat Ruangdejworachai, president and CEO of Media Intelligence Group Co. Continued …
ThaiBev’s liquor earnings drop 12% in 1st quarter of 2025 accounting year
ThaiBev’s revenue rose by 2.2% in Q1 of the 2025 accounting year, reaching 92.265 billion baht. However, liquor earnings dropped by 12%, while beer and non-alcoholic beverages saw growth. EBITDA fell slightly by 0.8%.
ThaiBev stated that its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) from liquor products for October to December 2024 — the first quarter of the 2025 accounting year (October 2024 to September 2025) — stood at 7.949 billion baht, representing a 12% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year. Continued …
ASEAN, in disarray, needs to recalibrate
Since its inception in 1967, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has represented a story of success in regional cooperation among developing countries. Its founding nations of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand chose to support the free world and oppose communism, refuted the domino theory of communism’s spread and positioned the region to emerge from the Cold War era intact, enriched and self-confident.
Upon the completion of ASEAN’s long-held aspiration to encompass all 10 nation states within the region in the 1990s, former ideological enemies reconciled and became integral parts of the ASEAN family. ASEAN, as an association, became a community based upon a common set of ideas and rules, as demonstrated by the ASEAN Charter, which came into full effect and force in 2008. Continued …
Backpacker Paradise or Overcrowded Chaos? Pai Struggles with Tourism Boom
Pai, a once-tranquil town nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, is experiencing growing pains as it grapples with an overwhelming influx of tourists. This surge, while beneficial for local businesses, has intensified existing tensions among the community’s residents.
For years, Pai has been celebrated as a haven for backpackers due to its picturesque scenery and relaxed lifestyle. However, recent visitor numbers have soared, turning the charming destination into a bustling tourist hotspot. The transformation has resulted in a clash of cultures between locals and tourists, as crowded streets and nightlife disrupt the peaceful atmosphere that once defined the area. Continued …
Where has ‘Thailand’ gone?
I love Thailand so much that I have been saving and depositing my hard-earned money into wonderful moments here for over 12 years. I love the people, the clean cities, the considerable choice of food and the King.
However, this year new shifts in tourism were noticeable. Prices have increased so much that it feels too Westernized and not cosy like before. Continued …
Thailand eyes global leadership in medical and wellness tourism
Thailand’s private-hospital sector is spearheading a drive to establish the nation as a leading global hub for medical and wellness tourism.
Industry leaders are confident that the burgeoning global interest in health and well-being will provide significant impetus, highlighting Thailand’s established strengths in tourism, advanced medical care, cosmetic surgery, and wellness offerings as key drivers for economic growth and international expansion. Continued …
Shift urged to tourism focus to wealthier, older demographic
A Thammasat University scholar is urging the government to focus on attracting older tourists who tend to stay longer in the country and have higher spending power.
The government has declared 2025 as the year of “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports”, aiming to attract 40 million international tourists and generate at least 3 trillion baht in revenue this year. Continued …
Thailand draws Kiwis with culture
As Thailand aims for a record-breaking 40 million tourists in 2025, young New Zealanders are flocking to the nation for its perfect mix of adventure, culture, and affordability.
Asia is the region most visited by Kiwi holidaymakers outside Oceania, says Asia New Zealand Foundation’s latest Perceptions of Asia and Asian Peoples survey. Continued …
Taiwan Labels Thailand as High-Risk Travel Destination
Taiwan has designated Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos as high-risk travel destinations due to their connections with burgeoning fraud rings. Announced by Taiwan’s Ministry of Interior on Friday, this development highlights growing concerns over regional crime syndicates specifically targeting international visitors.
Travelers flying to these countries will now see explicit warnings printed on their airline tickets. Additionally, they are urged to download a dedicated travel safety app developed by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance their security awareness while abroad. Continued …
‘The White Lotus’ is taking you to Thailand: 4 things to know before planning a trip
Thailand has long been a popular place for tourists to visit, and as travelers continue to draw destination inspiration from pop culture, the tropical Southeast Asian nation is poised to receive even more visitors in 2025.
The third season of HBO’s hit “White Lotus” transports viewers to a lush Thai resort. The show has driven travel trends with its previous settings, so it’s likely to lead to a spike in vacations to Thailand. Continued …
Exploring Thai curries from every region
Thai cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients. Among the many iconic dishes, Thai curries stand out as a true representation of the country’s rich culinary heritage
Each region in Thailand boasts its own signature curry, reflecting local ingredients, traditions, and tastes. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most distinctive curries from each part of Thailand. Continued …
Ao Ai Yo Forest in Nakhon Si Thammarat boasts rich biodiversity
The Ao Ai Yo Community Forest is located in Nam Tok subdistrict, Thung Song district, Nakhon Si Thammarat province. It is a tropical rainforest with large trees and evergreen species, remaining lush throughout the year. This forest also serves as a watershed and has streams that provide water for agriculture in the Nam Tok area.
Boonlert, 56, former president of the Ao Ai Yo Community Forest, now works as a guide, leading visitors to experience the forest up close. He shared that in the past, Ao Ai Yo was part of the Kuan Ok National Forest Reserve of Ban Nam Tok, but frequent forest encroachment by people cutting trees or clearing land for farming became a problem. Continued …
Thailand’s Pink Noodles: The Story of Yen Ta Fo
Yen Ta Fo is a type of noodle dish similar to traditional fish ball noodles but with a distinctive feature — its signature pinkish-red broth. That striking color comes from Yen Ta Fo sauce, a special ingredient made mainly from fermented red tofu.
The name “Yen Ta Fo” has Hakka Chinese roots, and while it’s a popular dish among Hakka communities, the name doesn’t actually mean “fermented tofu.” There’s some debate about the name’s origin, but it likely evolved from how Teochew Chinese speakers pronounced a similar term, eventually becoming “Yen Ta Fo” as we know it. Continued …
Nan, Sukhothai stars in Booking.com’s 2025 Traveler Review Awards
While Thailand’s coastal gems continue to attract visitors, it’s the country’s secondary provinces, including Nan and Sukhothai, that are stealing the spotlight in Booking.com’s 2025 Traveler Review Awards.
These destinations, offering unique cultural and historical experiences, have seen a surge in popularity, earning them recognition alongside established favorites. This 13th awards, based on more than 360 million verified user reviews on the platform, recognize more than 1.71 million travel partners globally for exceptional service. Continued …
Exploring Little Myanmar: a cultural haven in Bangkok
In the heart of Bangkok, a vibrant Burmese community has established itself, creating “Little Myanmar”. This neighborhood serves as a cultural and social hub for Myanmar nationals, offering a slice of home amid the urban landscape.
Located near Phra Khanong, Little Myanmar is marked by bustling markets, Burmese-language signage, and shops selling traditional goods. Stalls and small eateries offer authentic Burmese dishes, from the famed mohinga, a savory fish-noodle soup, to laphet thohk, a tangy tea-leaf salad. Vendors take care in preparation, ensuring each bite transports patrons to Yangon. Continued …
Investors are fleeing references to climate change
For more than a decade, money manager Garvin Jabusch would show a chart of the planet’s rising temperatures when pitching investment ideas to clients, saying they could help save the planet and still make money. These days, he no longer uses the chart and avoids talking about climate change.
“I’ve given up on anyone ever caring about that,” said Jabusch, investment chief of Green Alpha Investments, which manages about US$300 million. Continued …
UK ready to send troops to Ukraine
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was prepared to deploy troops to Ukraine if needed, hours before European leaders meet in Paris today to address Washington’s shock policy shift on the war. Continued …
Trump’s aid freeze could cause millions more AIDS deaths
U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend U.S. overseas funding could result in millions more deaths from AIDS, the head of the UN’s program for the illness warned yesterday. Continued …
China’s pet economy 3.0: Pampering paws and claws
A Goldman Sachs report said that for the first time in 2024, the number of pets in China had surpassed the number of children under the age of four. It further projects that by 2030, the former will nearly double the latter in number. Continued …
Taiwan bounty hunters kill invading iguanas as numbers soar
Armed with a slingshot, Taiwanese bounty hunter Wu Cheng-hua bends sideways and aims his lethal weapon up at a green iguana, one of tens of thousands in the crosshairs of a government cull. Continued …
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
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