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hua hin, immigration, pattaya, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-Dec 6

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Today’s news: Bus Tragedy That Killed 14/Bt7.9-billion budget to reduce pollution/Tips for a cold/Torrential rain warning/Thai students ranked lower/The flower that blooms on Thai Father’s Day/Drop in Thai gold prices/Wild elephant herd tramples/’ sugarcane/Economy: Slowdown threatens Thai growth/Thailand’s green economy challenge/Thailand embraces ‘Polluter-Pays Principle’/Billionaire rivals eye 7-Eleven chain/Tourism: Child Sex Claim Refuted/Fewer Chinese tourists/Ladyboys robbing Indian men of gold/Thailand Experience: In Thailand,What to do and avoid/Michelin Star Street Food: Grilled Scallops/Villages in Phitsanulok celebrate harvest tradition/Exploring Kanchanaburi/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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Father Is Shocked That His Daughter Died In Bus Tragedy That Killed 14

Fourteen passengers were killed and 35 injured when a passenger bus from Bangkok to Songkhla province’s Na Thawi district rammed into a tree in front of Hat Wanakorn National Park at 1 am Tuesday in Prachuab Kiri Khan province.

The Sawang Rungrueang Rescue Foundation brought 35 individuals to local hospitals. The bus was transferred and parked at Huai Yang Police Station for inspection by relevant agencies. to the accident cause. Continued …

Bt7.9-billion budget for sugarcane farmers to reduce pollution

Thailand’s cabinet has approved a budget of 7.9 billion baht (US$226.36 million) in incentives for sugarcane farmers not to burn their crops, and reduce pollution, a government spokesperson said on Monday.

Radklao Inthawong Suwankiri said the incentives do not conflict with Thailand’s obligations under the World Trade Organization because they were aimed at reducing pollution. Continued …

Tips for a cold (or is it the flu or Covid-19?)

What are the best home remedies for coughs and a blocked nose? And how can I sleep better once I’ve come down with flu symptoms? Here are the most important things to know as we enter the cold season.

You’ve got a runny nose, sore throat, your body aches and limbs feel heavy? If so, you’re in good company – it’s the common cold season in the Northern Hemisphere. While nothing can cure a cold, there are some remedies that can ease the symptoms. Continued …

Torrential rain warning issued for 29 Thai provinces: Bangkok included

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for torrential rain across 29 provinces, including Bangkok. This is due to a high-pressure system from China spreading over Thailand’s upper and northeastern regions.

The southern region will bear the brunt of the storm, with a strong monsoon predicted. The officials have further revealed that temperatures in the upper regions of the country are expected to drop. Continued …

Thai students ranked lower on every PISA index

Thai students rank below average in science and mathematics, and much lower in reading, according to the latest OECD’s Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022.

The assessment is conducted annually, and Thailand has shown a downward trend in the last 10 years. The current mean score is lower than those for Singapore, Vietnam, Brunei, and Malaysia. Continued …

Phuttharaksa: The flower that blooms on Thai Father’s Day

The yellow Phuttharaksa flower or Canna lily takes center stage in Thailand every Dec. 5, as the country celebrates Father’s Day.

The flower symbolizes the birthday color of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, who was born on a Monday. The Thai name for the flower is also considered auspicious. “Phuttharaksa” translates as “A Buddha who protects”. Continued …

Drastic drop in Thai gold prices

Gold prices in Thailand have plummeted drastically following a continuous surge, according to the Gold Traders Assn. The price of gold ornaments fell by 250 baht compared to the last price Monday, selling at 34,450 baht per baht-weight.

The buying price of gold bars in the country stands at 33,850 baht per baht-weight and the selling price is 33,950 baht per baht-weight, according to the sixth announcement of the day. Meanwhile, the purchase price for 96.5% gold ornaments is 33,245.88 baht per baht-weight, selling at 34,450 baht per baht-weight. The global gold spot price is at US$2,034.50 per ounce. – thethaiger.com

Wild elephant herd of 100 ‘tramples’ sugarcane dreams in Prachin Buri

Over 100 wild elephants caused chaos and distress to villagers in Khao Maikaew, Kabin Buri in Prachin Buri province, after rampaging through a sugarcane plantation, forcing officials from the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary to push the elephants back.

However, the limited number of staff, combined with the difficulty and danger of the task, has made the task challenging. The elephants refuse to leave the area and continue to feed on the local farmers’ crops. Continued …

Global slowdown threatens Thai growth

Although the Bank of Thailand’s revised GDP growth forecast of 3.2%-3.8% next year is possible, analysts are warning that an economic slowdown in China and the U.S. means downside risks remain, while the effectiveness of government stimulus to ignite the economy is questioned.

Nattaporn Triratanasirikul, deputy managing director of Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), said the central bank’s forecast for 2024 is in line with the think tank’s estimate, with its official forecast scheduled for release on Dec 12. Continued …

Thailand’s green economy challenge

Climate concerns are reshaping the job market across the globe, leading to a rise in “green” jobs tailored for low-carbon economies. Success now hinges on adaptability to this new job landscape.

Thailand needs to act swiftly. As a country deeply woven into the global supply chain and reliant on exports and foreign investment, failing to meet the demand for greener practices risks leaving the country behind in the global shift to a low-carbon economy. Continued … 

Thailand embraces ‘Polluter-Pays Principle’, Regulation on industrial waste takes effect

Thailand’s Ministry of Industry (MOI) has issued a notification adopting the polluter-pays principle for generators of industrial waste in factories. The Notification of the Ministry of Industry on Management of Waste or Unused Materials B.E. 2566 (2023), enacted under the Factory Act B.E. 2535 (1992), marks a pivotal shift in the responsibilities and liabilities of factory operators as waste generators, which under the new notification no longer end when the waste is collected by a third-party waste processor. The notification, which was first issued in May 31, 2023, took effect on Nov. 1, 2023, after the expiration of a grace period set by the MOI. Continued …

Billionaire rivals eye dominance of the Kingdom’s 7-Eleven chain

As Thailand’s economy is poised on a knife edge with only enough economic momentum to just about keep moving forward, the country’s wealthy elite are focusing on the convenience store market, with at least four upstarts trying to take on the dominance of the still expanding 7-Eleven 24 hour chain run by the kingdoms’ giant conglomerate Charoen Pokphand Group and the influential Chearavanont family.

In what could be an exciting clash of business titans, Thailand’s billionaire tycoons are making strategic investments into the burgeoning convenience store sector, foreseeing a surge in demand as consumer habits evolve toward frequent, smaller purchases. Continued …

Thai Lawyer Rejects German Child Sex Suspect’s Claim

After the prime minister directed the Ministry of Justice and the Royal Thai Police to thoroughly investigate the details in the DW documentary that claimed a German suspect involved in child prostitution paid Thai officers a million baht bribe and escaped, a Thai lawyer who previously worked for the German told a different story.

Parinya Promsak, lawyer for the German man named Jens stated on Tuesday in Chonburi Province that his client’s claim was not true. That one million baht bribe was probably the same amount that was used to pay for the legal team, part of which was used as bail money as the court had set, 500,000 baht, and another part was used as expenses for the legal team. Continued …

Why are fewer Chinese tourists visiting Thailand?

Chinese tourist arrivals in Thailand are set to be lower than forecast in 2023, according to estimates by the Thai tourism bureau.

Thailand had expected a bump in tourist arrivals from China following the reopening of borders after the coronavirus pandemic. The tourism bureau initially predicted 5 million visitors from China in 2023. Continued …

Certainties of life: Death, taxes, and ladyboys robbing Indian men of gold in Pattaya

There are several certainties guaranteed in life – death and taxes, ladyboys in Pattaya robbing Indian men ostentatiously flaunting their gold.

In the vibrant streets of Pattaya, where the night unfolds with many unexpected tales, a recent incident involving a pickpocketing ladyboy added another chapter to ladyboys in Pattaya robbing Indian men of their gold. Continued …

So you’ve arrived in Thailand for the first time: What to do and avoid

As Thailand’s tourism industry picks up toward the end of 2023, embarking on your first journey to the Kingdom of Thailand and its capital Bangkok can be both thrilling and overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide aims to equip you, the farang (foreigner), with valuable insights and tips we curated from locals and experienced travelers. It’s part of a series of guides we aim to publish in the coming weeks to help travelers old and new get the most out of their trip here. Continued …

Bangkok’s Can’t-Miss Michelin Star Street Food: Grilled Scallops

In this edition of Street Eats, Bon Appétit joins chef Lucas Sin at Elvis Suki in Bangkok to try their Michelin-rated street food, from their signature sukiyaki to their famous char-grilled scallops. Video 

2 villages in Phitsanulok celebrate centuries-old harvest tradition

In an annual custom dating back over a century, residents from two villages in Phitsanulok came together on Tuesday to thank the deities for a bountiful rice harvest.

The time-honored ritual, known as “Tham Boon Klang Ban” or merit-making, in the heart of the village, was held at the center of Ban Phai Khor Nam in Phrom Phiram district’s Matoom subdistrict. Continued …

A three day guide to exploring Kanchanaburi

A few hours drive from Bangkok’s busy city is the picturesque region of Kanchanaburi. A blend of colorful flora and fauna, historical tales, and unmatched tranquil scenery.

This three-day guide captures the history, natural beauty, and cultural diversity of this gem of Thailand by offering fascinating experiences with a touch of the local character. Continued …

To phase out or phase down fossil fuels?

After days of shaving off the edges of key warming issues, climate negotiators zeroed in on the tough job of dealing with the main cause of what’s overheating the planet: fossil fuels. As scientists, activists and United Nations officials repeatedly detailed how the world needs to phase-out the use of coal, oil and natural gas, the United Arab Emirates-hosted conference opened “energy transition day” with a session headlined by top officials of two oil companies. Continued …

US announces visa bans after warning Israel over West Bank violence

The U.S. on Tuesday began imposing visa bans on people involved in violence in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Washington officials said, after several appeals for Israel to do more prevent violence by Jewish settlers. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

 

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

 

baht, bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s News-June 19

  • Sunee Hill: Forging her own path/
  • Asia’s biggest Golf Tournament created a financial boost for Hua Hin/
  • Hua Hin Cricket Sixes returns to Dusit Thani Hua Hin in July/
  • Opinion: The Fear of Pita and Move Forward Explained/
  • Thai children losing out on height due to too little milk/
  • Funeral attendees win cows, receive rice gifts in unique 200,000 baht Thai almsgiving/
  • Keeping poor kids at school/
  • People flee high-rise buildings in Bangkok as Myanmar quake tremors felt/
  • Myanmar Junta Launches Airstrikes Near Thai Border As Clashes Escalate/
  • Coalition begins opening a path to deliver peace to the restive South/
  • 50,000 Signatures Sought to Keep Cannabis off the Narcotics List/
  • Economy: Thai baht continues to be volatile/Thai economy to enjoy positive growth, economists say/Further interest hikes likely/Household debt in Thailand soars to 86.9% of GDP, dampening consumer spending/
  • Tourism: Retirees skip Chiang Mai amid heavy smog/Chinese tourists top low season visitors list/
  • Thailand Experience: 7 best things to do in Hua Hin/A guide to visiting Koh Samui in 2023/Travelindex Unveils Winners of Bangkok’s Top 25 Restaurants/
  • International: Air Travel Demand Seen Soaring 28% To Near Pre-pandemic Level In 2023/China calls on US to meet it halfway amid frosty ties/
  • 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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Sunee Hill: Forging her own path

By Felicitee Lawrie

When I first met Sunee Hill, a petite, feisty, white-haired Thai nonagenarian, she fixed me with her steely eyes and told me, point-blank, that I could write her story. This is the remarkable story of her life journey and her art, which has helped her explore her Chinese heritage.

Sunee was born and raised in Bangkok, the second child of nine to Chinese immigrant parents. Her father was a merchant who supplied materials to the construction industry. Because Thai authorities at the time had difficulty recording the details of her name and existence in Chinese language, she was not officially registered until quite some time later, so has a passport recording her birth as having happened in 1940, when it was indeed in 1932. What local lady wouldn’t mind shaving eight years off her age? Continued …

(Expat News is pleased to welcome a new series of articles about Hua Hin residents (above), written by freelance journalist Felicitee Lawrie, a Sydney, Australia, native. To read more about Felicitee, or to volunteer yourself or someone else for a possible profile by Felicitee, click HERE.)

Asia’s biggest Golf Tournament created a financial boost for Hua Hin

Over 480 competitors participated in Asia’s biggest golf tournament in Hua Hin from June 11-17.

While the golf media are currently focused on the PGA and PIF, one major golf tournament went ahead last week without any political issues. The Centara World Masters Golf Championship attracted over 480 amateurs to Hua Hin. Continued …

Hua Hin Cricket Sixes returns to Dusit Thani Hua Hin in July

The Hua Hin Cricket Sixes tournament will take place at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin from Sunday, July 2, to Friday, July 7.

Despite cricket not being particularly popular in Thailand, this event has become a sporting tradition for cricket enthusiasts and players alike and is now in its 26th year. Continued …

The Fear of Pita and Move Forward Explained

The Move Forward Party is new, and it has never been in power before. The unknown factor has driven some to fear what is to come when (and if) the party is in charge, particularly if you are the elites and the upper middle class for the following reasons.

Imagine yourself being the owner or in charge of one of Thailand’s largest corporations. Your company, or conglomerate, has established all the connections with the old guards in the world of politics, the bureaucracy, and the top echelon of Thai society. Continued …

Thai children losing out on height due to too little milk

Packed with essential nutrients, milk is an integral part of children’s diets and supports their growth. It contains calcium, which is great for the teeth and the bones, and has other health benefits, too, among them boosting the immune system, strengthening heart health, and improving the skin, according to experts.

Yet, despite these advantages, a study shows milk consumption is low among young Thais, raising concerns over their short stature. Continued …

Funeral attendees win cows, receive rice gifts in unique 200,000 baht Thai almsgiving

In Buriram province, a funeral for 92-year-old Wun Chongchaingam has drawn a large crowd due to the unusual almsgiving of 1.5 tons of rice and a raffle for five cows, worth a total of 200,000 baht (US$ 5,758), for needy villagers and attendees. The event took place at Wat Pa Non-Somboon temple.

Many villagers attended the funeral to pay respects and participate in merit-making for the deceased woman, as well as to try their luck at winning one of the five cows. In addition to the cow lottery, which was held in front of the guests, over 700 bags of rice, each containing approximately two kilograms, were prepared as gifts for attendees. Continued …

Keeping poor kids at school

Anirut Thongdech has a broad smile when he learns that he will have a chance to return to school this term after having dropped out for two years.

The 11-year-old boy, also known as Saming, was forced to leave school due to his parents’ inability to afford his education, a problem in Thai society that has worsened since the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

People flee high-rise buildings in Bangkok as Myanmar quake tremors felt

Many office workers in high-rise buildings in Bangkok and Nonthaburi province rushed into the streets after they felt their buildings shake this morning.

One netizen tweeted that he was on the 13th floor of a building in the Lat Phrao area when he saw ceiling lamps swaying and felt dizzy. Another said that she dared not re-enter their building, after she and her colleagues ran out. Continued …

Myanmar Junta Launches Airstrikes Near Thai Border As Clashes Escalate

Fighting between Myanmar junta forces and Karenni armed groups just across the border from Mae Hong Son intensified yesterday, with the former launching 13 airstrikes against the latter.

Thai security forces said that Myanmar junta’s 430th Rapid Mobility Battalion continued to clash heavily with Karenni Army (KA), Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) and People’s Defense Force (PDF), the loosely organized armed wing of the pro-democracy National Unity Government, around eight to 10 kilometers from Mae Ngao subdistrict, Khun Yuam district, Mae Hong Son province. Continued …

Coalition begins opening a path to deliver peace to the restive South

The Prachachart Party vowed on Sunday that it and its coalition partners will work to ensure that both Buddhist and Muslim residents of the South will be able to live in harmony.

The party’s stronghold is the Muslim-majority southern border provinces. It made the promise at a public forum with representatives of Buddhist residents of the southern border provinces. Continued …

50,000 Signatures Sought to Keep Cannabis off the Narcotics List

The Future Cannabis Network is marching across Thailand in a campaign to gather 50,000 signatures opposing the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic, confident that the new government will listen.

Amid current legislative changes surrounding the public Cannabis Act – which was initially proposed to the progressive party, before being stalled in committee – the group seeks to ensure that cannabis will not revert to its status as a controlled substance. Continued …

Thai baht continues to be volatile

After a week of fluctuations last week amid strong selling pressure on the U.S. dollar and bond yields, the exchange rate of the Thai baht to the U.S. dollar is expected to be volatile again this week, ranging between 34.40 and 34.90 Baht.

Key factors to watch include the statement from the U.S. Federal Reserve chairman to Congress, the direction of foreign capital flows, Thailand’s export data for May, and the political situation in the country. Continued …

Thai economy to enjoy positive growth, economists say

The Thai economy is still growing despite the risk of a global economic recession, economists said during the recent “Investment Forum: New Chapter, New Opportunity” seminar organized by Krungthep Turakij.

Somprawin Manprasert, head of Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Center, said that while the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) did not hike interest rates at its meeting last week, as it wanted to send a signal that such hikes need not be constant, it was anticipated that there would be two further increases from the current rate of 5.25% this year, mainly to mitigate the impacts of rising fuel costs. Continued …

Further interest hikes likely

Thailand is likely to see higher interest rates in the second half of 2023 following the U.S. Federal Reserve’s indication of two further interest rate hikes this year and a signal from the Bank of Thailand that it, too, might raise interest.

According to Roong Sanguanruang of Krungsri Bank, it was earlier expected that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) might pause interest rate hikes at 2%. Continued …

Household debt in Thailand soars to 86.9% of GDP, dampening consumer spending

Thailand’s mounting household debt is raising concerns, as it continues to hinder consumer spending, affecting various industries and impeding economic growth. The latest data from the National Economic and Social Development Council shows debt in the nation reached 15.1 trillion baht in the fourth quarter of 2022, a 3.5% increase year on year, and accounting for 86.9% of GDP.

Debt levels remain alarmingly high, as the major factors behind rising household debt are real estate purchases and personal loans. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Retirees skip Chiang Mai amid heavy smog

Chiang Mai tourism operators hope the new government will work to urgently solve the haze problem to lure back long-stay senior tourists, which represent a major loss for the province.

Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat visited the province last week to discuss environmental and tourism policies with representatives from the tourism sector. Continued …

Chinese tourists top low season visitors list

The majority of international tourists in Phuket at the start of the low season come from China, followed by Russia and Australia, according to the Phuket Tourist Assn. (PTA).

PTA Vice President Thanawat Oncharoen said yesterday most of the visitors from China were independent travelers, adding the number of tourist groups from the country remains low, though he did not reveal any details. Continued …

7 best things to do in Hua Hin

Packing the bags and jetting off to the delightful seaside resort of Hua Hin is becoming quite the hot ticket for locals and expats alike. With its prime position along the Gulf of Thailand, this lovely destination serves as a delightful getaway for those toiling away in bustling Bangkok.

Moreover, stunning landscapes and a plethora of captivating activities make it a top choice for everyone in search of some fun in the sun. But with so many things to do in Hua Hin, it can get a bit overwhelming. So to help you plan your travels, here are the best things to do in Hua Hin for an enjoyable holiday. Continued …

Tell us what you consider the best activities for visitors in Hua Hin at aim@hhexpatnews.com.

A guide to visiting Koh Samui in 2023

Koh Samui has long been a go-to hotspot for sunseekers and holidaymakers, and in 2023 it promises to be even more amazing. You might be wondering what all the fuss is about, but don’t you worry your sunscreen-lathered hands because our guide will show you everything Koh Samui has to offer, from the best time to visit to the best villa to stay to the yummiest food and dazzling night markets that you can’t miss.

You can fly into Koh Samui International Airport with Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, or Thai Airways routes. On the other hand, you can take a ferry to Koh Samui, which requires around 1-2 hours, depending on what pier you are getting on board. Continued …

Travelindex Unveils Winners of Bangkok’s Top 25 Restaurants

Travel-index, a content-driven ecosystem for the travel and tourism sector, has rolled out its annual list of 25 restaurants throughout Bangkok that it considers the top eateries, highlighting why the capital is such a popular gastronomic destination among gourmets and gourmands.

Travelindex has annually listed and awarded the best restaurants since 2018 based on its own patented “Restaurant Rating Index.” Continued …

Air Travel Demand Seen Soaring 28% To Near Pre-pandemic Level In 2023

Global air passenger traffic is expected to soar 28.3% to 4.35 billion people in 2023, returning to near the pre-pandemic level of 2019, with Asia-Pacific airlines benefiting from a sharp recovery in demand, according to estimates by an industry body. Continued …

China calls on US to meet it halfway amid frosty ties

China has called on the United States to meet it halfway, saying that bilateral ties are at the lowest point since the start of diplomatic relations, according to an official Chinese account of talks between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Sunday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 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 twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s News-Jan 10

  • Thailand reverses course: no vaccination required for tourist entry/

  • Thailand causes global confusion after reinstating then dropping vaccination requirements/
  • Calendar: WTA Thailand Open at True Arena Jan 30-Feb 5/Muay Thai Festival Day at Rajabhakti Park Feb 2-6/Pranburi half marathon Feb 12/Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival Feb 18-26/Sunset Beach Music Festival March 4/Hua Hin Bikini Run March 25
  • Thailand ushers in new education era, but will rich-poor gap close?/
  • Elephant herd leaves sanctuary, raids crops/
  • Tax incentives to encourage reduction in plastic usage/
  • Tourism: Prachuap Khiri Khan is ready to welcome Chinese tourists/First group of 200 Chinese tourists lands in Thailand/Two Foreigners and Captain Survive After Krabi Long-tail Boat Capsizes/Consuming cannabis in Thailand: what tourists need to know/
  • Thailand Experience: Unleash the power of Thai Cuisine: 7 health benefits of a Thai diet/Wat Phra Kaew: Home to Thailand’s most sacred deity/
  • Covid: Where to get booster vaccines in Hua Hin/Bangkok Tightens Covid Measures as City Expects Tourist Influx/
  • International: Researchers dig up secrets of ‘self-healing’ Roman concrete/Brazil upheaval spark deja vu? It already happened in US/Japan culls record 10M birds as avian flu spreads/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas

Click on image above for more information or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Thailand reverses course: no vaccination required for tourist entry

On Monday morning, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed reports that a controversial entry restriction to Thailand for unvaccinated foreign tourists had been rescinded and that the country was now open without restriction to visitors from all countries on an equal footing including China.

The move followed an emergency Monday morning meeting after a weekend of chaos and urgent calls from the foreign tourism industry to avoid disruption to a recovery underway now buoyed by Chinese arrivals.

The Thai government on Monday reversed its controversial measures requiring that all arrivals to the country have proof of vaccination just under 24 hours after the requirement took effect on airlines flying into its international airports. Continued … 

Thailand causes global confusion after reinstating then dropping vaccination requirements

Travelers, airlines and tour operators had a roller coaster few days after Thailand reinstated its Covid-19 vaccination entry requirement, only to drop it again just hours later.

On Saturday, Thailand officials announced international visitors would have to provide proof of full vaccination before arriving in the country from Monday, Jan. 9.

The decision was made in response to China reopening its borders on Sunday, Jan. 8. To avoid discrimination, all international travelers would be asked to follow the requirement. Continued …

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That sounds like a deal, doesn’t it ? Welcome !

The Beach at Anantasila, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

A spacious safe environment with all measures taken.

For information or reservations: e-mail fb@anantasila.com or dial 032 527638

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Thailand ushers in new education era, but will rich-poor gap close?

Thai education is about to enter a new phase as Parliament prepares to vote on the National Education Bill. Yet, experts do not expect the bill and its reforms to bring big improvements for Thailand’s much-criticized education system.

“Once the National Education Bill becomes law, Thailand’s education sector will shift to a new era,” said Dr. Sompong Jitradub, an education expert at the Equitable Education Fund (EEF).

The education draft law advocates decentralization and paves the way for schools to have more power over their operations, he said. The idea is to allow them to respond faster and better to the needs and concerns of students, parents and other stakeholders. Continued …

Elephant herd leaves sanctuary, raids crops

A herd of 100 wild elephants has been foraging away from the confines of the Ang Rue Nai sanctuary in the Tha Chang subdistrict of Prachinburi incentral/eastern Thailand. The animals have been feasting on sugar cane and cassava fields. Locals pushed the herd back toward the sanctuary but acknowledged it was a hopeless task, since the animals needed food. The locals want more help from the authorities to help in protecting their crops that are well outside the area of the sanctuary. (Thai Rath)

Tax incentives to encourage reduction in plastic usage

The Industry and Finance ministries are using a new corporate income tax reduction program to encourage businesses to use more biodegradable plastic products, in a move to reduce waste.

“The tax reduction amounts to around 25% of what companies paid to buy biodegradable plastic products between 2022 and 2024,” said Industry Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan is ready to welcome Chinese tourists

After a bumper New Year, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s tourism industry is hoping the arrival of Chinese tourists to Thailand will be a further cause for optimism.

Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Khiri Khan Office Achawan Kongkanan said the New Year holiday was a busy period for the local tourism industry. Throughout the province’s eight districts, the average hotel occupancy rate was around 80%, he said.

In Hua Hin, the busiest district in the province, hotel occupancy rates peaked to between 90% and 100%. Continued …

First group of 200 Chinese tourists lands in Thailand

The first direct flight from China since the pandemic shut borders arrived in Thailand on Monday, a day after Beijing dropped COVID border controls that had largely prevented its 1.4 billion residents from traveling for three years.

Passengers of Xiamen Airlines flight MF833, carrying 269 Chinese travelers, were given a warm welcome upon landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport on the outskirts of Bangkok.

Thai Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul handed out garlands, while airport officials distributed bags of souvenirs to the arriving visitors. Continued …

Two Foreigners and Captain Survive After Krabi Long-tail Boat Capsizes

Two foreign tourists and a boat captain have been rescued after a long-tail boat capsized in Krabi.

The Than Bok Khorani National Park Office said it was notified over the past weekend that a long-tail boat that was carrying foreign tourists was capsized between Hong Island and Hang Nak Cape.

Rescue teams arrived in the area in question to find the long-tail boat being towed and rescued by two other tour boats. Continued …

Consuming cannabis in Thailand: what tourists need to know

Since the delisting of parts of the marijuana plant as a narcotic last year, cannabis cafes and weed dispensaries have become common in Thailand.

But confusing government amendments to the laws and continued debate about what should be permitted has created what has become known as “a weed Wild West” that could land tourists in trouble.

“Since legalisation, no one really (knows) whether we have the correct information”, says Kitty Chopaka, an independent cannabis advocate based in Bangkok. Continued …

Unleash the power of Thai Cuisine: 7 health benefits of a Thai diet

The Thai diet is a healthy and nutritious way to eat. It is full of flavorful dishes that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It is also low in sodium, bad cholesterol, and fat, making it a great choice for anyone looking to lose weight or improve their overall health.

The Thai diet also contains anti-inflammatory ingredients, which can help reduce inflammation in the body, and healthy fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and support heart health.

Eating a Thai diet can also help boost the immune system and promote weight loss. All of these benefits make the Thai diet an excellent choice for those looking to improve their overall health. Continued …

Wat Phra Kaew: Home to Thailand’s most sacred deity

The Emerald Buddha Temple, or Wat Phra Kaew, is one of Bangkok’s most venerated sites, housing many objects deemed sacred in Thailand.

The temple, also known as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram, lies within the Grand Palace compound and is home to the Emerald Buddha, which is venerated as Thailand’s protector.

Construction of the temple began in 1783, under the auspices of the Chakri dynasty’s first king, King Rama I. Since then, each successive king has been personally involved in adding, restoring and embellishing the temple as a way of making merit and glorifying the dynasty. Continued …

Where to get booster vaccines in Hua Hin

Hua Hin Hospital and the Red Cross Hua Hin have announced an update to the schedule for booster vaccines in Hua Hin.

Free booster vaccines are available at Hua Hin Hospital every Tuesday between 8:30am and 11:30am. The vaccines are available to ages 5-11 (Pfizer dose 1, 2) and the over 12s (Pfizer dose 1,2,3,4,5).

Anyone who wishes to receive a booster vaccine should go to the 10th floor of the car park building at Hua Hin Hospital. Continued …

Bangkok Tightens Covid Measures as City Expects Tourist Influx

Bangkok City Hall has announced it is making all preparations necessary to control the spread of COVID-19, as more visitors will be making their way to the Thai capital this year.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt said he has instructed deputy governors to assess the preparedness of the city’s public health system, including available personnel, bed, medication, and vaccine.

The city hall will be closely monitoring the situation at tourist hotspots such as Yaowarat Road, Khaosan Road, hotels, temples, and floating markets, which could see an increase in transmission risks with a higher number of visitors. Continued … 

Researchers dig up secrets of ‘self-healing’ Roman concrete

How have Rome’s ancient aqueducts and architectural marvels such as the Pantheon, which features the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, endured the test of time? Continued … 

Brazil upheaval spark deja vu? It already happened in US

A charismatic right-wing leader refuses to concede an election, boycotts his successor’s inauguration, then sits back as supporters storm the seat of government. As in so many aspects of its politics, Brazil is following the U.S. example down to a T. Continued … 

Japan culls record 10M birds as avian flu spreads

The number of birds culled at poultry farms in Japan has exceeded 10 million, as cases of avian flu continue to spread nationwide, the farm ministry said Tuesday. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service schedule from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated. In addition, a new Cha Am boarding location has been added in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

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

 

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