Run Khan Do event/Pone Kingphet Park renovation/Royal Hua Hin Course hosts Thai LPGA/Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan/Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased/EC announces 71% voter turnout/Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home/AI-Driven Traffic Lights in Bangkok/Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise/Keep their hair in check/Bomb on husband’s mistress’ car- ECONOMY: Thailand faces high baht volatility/SCB predicts gradual baht decline/Thailand’s 2026 growth outlook improves/Manufacturing index rises/Thailand’s Role in Semiconductor Supply Chains/40,000-ton rice deal/Trump’s Tariff Setback Implications
- TOURISM: Is Thailand becoming rude and expensive?/Dual pricing, who pays the price?/Thailand’s Fast-Growing Wellness Market/Tomorrowland Thailand expected to generate 5.5 billion/Etihad Airways to debut Airbus A380 in Bangkok
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Salt making on the decline/The best time to visit Thailand/5 hidden gems in lesser-known cities/Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Run Khan Do event to run through July
The third RUN KHAN DO event will take place across Prachuap Khiri Khan from March to July 2026, with officials confirming that preparations are now under way to deliver a larger and more varied program this year. On Wednesday, Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, chaired a planning meeting at the Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports to review progress and coordinate arrangements for RUN KHAN DO 2026.
Officials confirmed that a total of 12 events will be organized across all eight districts of the province, running continuously from March to July. The program will include fun runs, health walks, trail running competitions, and a commemorative cycling event. Continued …
Pone Kingphet Park renovation behind Songkran schedule
The Pone Kingphet Park renovation is being accelerated by Hua Hin City Municipality to ensure the venue is ready for Songkran 2026.
Yesterday, Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul led municipal executives, councillors, and relevant officials to inspect progress at the park, which is undergoing a major redevelopment. He acknowledged that construction has fallen behind the original schedule and instructed the contractor to increase manpower and machinery to speed up the remaining works. Continued …
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course hosts first Thai LPGA event of year
The ThaiLPGA Tour 2026 season will offer total prize money of 18 million baht, with the opening events scheduled for March at Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, organizers said.
The Women’s Professional Golf Association of Thailand said the season will begin with ThaiLPGA Tour Q School on March 18-19 at Royal Hua Hin, followed by the Singha-SAT Ladies Open from March 20-22. The opening tournament will offer 1.5 million baht in prize money. Continued …
Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan
A total of 54,000 methamphetamine pills were seized in Mueang district following a coordinated operation by police and provincial officials, according to authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
At a press conference held at the Border Patrol Police Subdivision 14 in Huai Sai subdistrict Wednesday, Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, outlined details of the arrest of two male suspects and the seizure of the drugs. Continued …
Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased in 2025
Road accidents in Thailand fell in 2025, according to new data released yesterday at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. Police Gen. Samran Nuanma, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police and director of the Traffic Management Center, said statistics show a decline in crashes, fatalities, and injuries. However, speeding remains the leading cause of accidents nationwide.
PRS figures for 2025 recorded 20,967 road accidents, a decrease of more than 11% from the previous year. Fatalities totaled 11,779, down more than 15%, while injuries fell by over 20% to 12,182 cases. Police said the reductions reflect proactive enforcement efforts by traffic officers nationwide. Continued …
EC announces 71% voter turnout in 2026 election, over 35 million valid votes
The Election Commission (EC) has announced the final voter turnout for the 2026 general election, with 37.8 million voters (71.4%) participating on Feb.8. Continued …
Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home, Flee With B2 Million
Three hooded men armed with knives stormed a home in the Pattaya area, late yesterday, stealing a safe containing more than 2 million baht in cash from a British resident before fleeing in a black pickup truck.
The victims, a 32-year-old British national and his 34-year-old Thai partner, were left shaken but unharmed. Police have launched a manhunt following the robbery at Chokchai Village 9, off Soi Khao Noi. Continued …
AI-Driven Traffic Lights Launched in Bangkok
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has started upgrading traffic signals at various intersections, incorporating an adaptive system using CCTV and AI technology to adjust in real time. This initiative aims to transition from fixed-timing to automated adaptive control, improving convenience and reducing time on the roads.
The BMA manages 746 intersections, with 578 having traffic lights. Currently, 433 of these use fixed signals, 71 have adaptive loop detectors, and 74 have been updated to the new adaptive real-time CCTV system. Fixed-time signals often cause inefficiencies, like green lights with no traffic or unnecessary red light waits. Continued …
Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise by up to 20% in Thailand
Rising memory component costs have pushed up launch prices for Samsung’s latest flagship lineup, with several models in the new Galaxy S26 series debuting up to 20% higher than their Galaxy S25 predecessors in Thailand.
Samsung Electronics this week unveiled the Galaxy S26 series, positioning proactive, on-device artificial intelligence (AI) as the core differentiator in the premium smartphone segment. Continued …
BTS asks passengers to keep their hair in check
The operator of the BTS Skytrain has called on passengers to refrain from flicking or tossing their hair while traveling during peak hours, warning that loose locks could accidentally strike fellow commuters in the face, shoulders, eyes, or mouth.
Passengers with long hair are urged to hold their tresses in place when turning their heads, walking past others, or boarding and alighting from trains. Continued …
Thai wife arrested for planting bomb on husband’s mistress’ car
A Thai woman attached explosive devices to the car of her husband’s mistress in an attempted killing, but the devices failed to fully detonate, causing only minor damage to the vehicle. The victim told police an explosive device fell from her car and exploded on the road, causing a loud noise and sparks.
Police went to the scene with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team to examine the evidence. Officers said the device was a homemade improvised explosive device (IED) contained in four glass bottles, with only one bottle exploding. Continued …
Thailand faces high baht volatility from internal and external risks
This year continues to be a period of high uncertainty for Thai businesses, driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic policies, interest rate directions, and the transition to new technologies. Meanwhile, domestic factors such as a strong Thai baht, high household debt, weak demand, and a fragile economic structure are further intensifying the pressure on the business sector.
Patrick Poulia, deputy general manager and head of the financial markets function at Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), stated that the overall economy and financial markets in 2026 face multidimensional challenges. Continued …
SCB predicts gradual baht decline
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) expects the baht to gradually weaken against the US dollar, reaching 33 baht per dollar in the fourth quarter of this year, driven by a combination of domestic and external factors.
SCB forecasts the baht to ease to 31.50 per dollar in the first quarter, 31.70 in the second quarter, 32 in the third quarter, and 33 in the fourth quarter. Continued …
Thailand’s 2026 growth outlook improves to 2.1%, despite structural headwinds
TRIS Rating has raised its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 2.1% from 1.7%, following stronger-than-expected momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, when the economy expanded 2.4%. Despite the upward revision, growth is still projected to moderate from last year, reflecting persistent structural constraints.
Private consumption remains under pressure from fragile consumer confidence and elevated household debt. The Consumer Confidence Index fell to 51.9 in December 2025 from 53.2 in November, following the dissolution of parliament. Meanwhile, household debt stood at 86.8% of GDP in the second quarter of 2025 — the highest level among ASEAN peers — continuing to weigh on spending. Continued …
Thai manufacturing index rises
Factory activity in Thailand picked up in January, driven by heightened political activity during the election campaign and strong demand in the automotive sector, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
The Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) rose 1.4% year-on-year to 101.58 points, compared with from 95.02 in December, said Supakit Boonsiri, the director-general of the office. He said campaign-related spending lifted sales of posters, food, paper, printing materials, and beverages.The index also benefited from rising sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), he said. Continued …
Thailand’s Emerging Role in Global Semiconductor Supply Chains
The global semiconductor industry is entering an increasingly strategic phase, driven by accelerated investments in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and electric vehicles (EV).
Electronic chips are no longer merely key components of conventional electronic devices; they have become essential infrastructure of the modern economy, supporting a wide range of applications — from industrial systems and automation to security technologies. Continued …
Thai and Chinese governments reach 40,000-ton rice deal
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of Commerce, has revealed that the Thai government and the government of the People’s Republic of China have reached a government-to-government rice-trading agreement for a volume of 40,000 tons.
The delivery is scheduled to gradually begin from February 2026 onward. This marks another significant step reflecting the strong relationship and long-standing rice trade cooperation between the two countries. Continued …
Trump’s Tariff Setback: Implications for China and Global Trade
US trading partners, including China and the EU, are responding to Trump’s recent tariff setbacks and warnings of potential new tariffs. They are likely adopting cautious or defensive strategies in light of these developments, reflecting concerns over economic stability and trade relations. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between the US and its trade partners over tariffs and trade policies.
The setback of Donald Trump’s tariffs marks a significant turning point in global trade dynamics. During his administration, tariffs were used as a tool to pressure China into changing trade practices, but these measures led to increased costs and tensions. The recent move to roll back or ease some tariffs suggests a shift toward more cooperative trade relations, which could benefit both China and the global economy. Continued …
Is Thailand becoming rude and expensive for foreign visitors?
Over the past few weeks, local news headlines have been dominated by complaints from some foreign tourists claiming that Thailand is becoming too expensive, while some Thais are being perceived as unfriendly — or even rude — to visitors.
If you come from a wealthy country like those in northern Europe, the US, Japan, Singapore, or even South Korea, where the average wage is several times higher than wages here, you should be complaining. Yes, things are probably somewhat cheaper in Ho Chi Minh City or Kathmandu than in Bangkok, but each destination has its own unique charm and appeal. Continued …
Dual pricing, who pays the price?
Dual-pricing, where foreigners pay more to enter certain places than local visitors, is common at major destinations in Thailand. When the double standard system blurs into confusion and exploitation, it could damage the country’s tourism.
This episode of ‘Why Bangkok: Dual Pricing, Who Pays The Price?’ explores the complexity of the double pricing system to find common ground between charging a nominal fee and exploiting the system to deliberately charge a higher price. Video …
Global Wellness Institute Releases New Data on Thailand’s Fast-Growing $42.7 Billion Wellness Market
Thailand’s wellness market expanded from $38.8 billion in 2023 to $42.7 billion in 2024. According to the latest Global Wellness Economy: Country Ranking Report by GWI, Thailand ranked #7 among the world’s top 25 wellness markets for growth between 2023 and 2024, achieving an impressive 10.1% increase.
In 2024, Thailand maintained its position as the world’s 24th largest wellness economy, ranking 9th in the Asia-Pacific region. The country is ranked 15th globally for wellness tourism, where spending surged by 36.4% between 2023 and 2024 — one of the fastest growth rates worldwide — bringing the market to $14 billion. Continued …
Tomorrowland Thailand expected to generate 5.5 billion baht in first year
Tomorrowland Thailand, the iconic electronic music festival, will debut in Pattaya this December. The event, organized by TAT, WE Are One World, and the Belgian Embassy, is expected to generate significant economic value, with over 5.5 billion baht projected in its first year alone, and 30 billion baht over the next five years.
The event will take place Dec. 11-13 at Wisdom Valley, in Chonburi, bringing a new international festival experience to Thailand. The event will feature six major stages, including the legendary Mainstage, and exclusive first-time showcases in Asia, including the CORE and Freedom stages. Continued …
Etihad Airways to debut Airbus A380 to Bangkok in October
Etihad Airways has announced it will bring its flagship Airbus A380 to Bangkok for the first time this October, increasing capacity on one of its most popular leisure routes. The airline will join four other carriers serving the destination with the superjumbo.
The airline’s A380 aircraft will operate on it’s evening daily service between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Bangkok (BKK). In its announcement, Etihad states that the A380’s launch, timed for the peak winter travel season, will support strong air travel demand between Thailand, the Middle East, and Europe. Continued …
Thailand’s salt making on the decline
The declining number of traditional salt-making activities in the region can be blamed on several factors, chief of which is the decreasing number of farmers who are interested in continuing the industry.
Many of them have left the traditional salt-making business and shifted to other trades and occupations, including farming, cattle-raising, and gardening, while a significant number have gone over to the tourism sector. Continued …
The best time to visit Thailand depends on where you go
Thailand is every wanderer’s dream: temples rising into brilliant blue skies, tuk-tuks zipping past street carts sizzling with spice, and tropical beaches that seem to glow at sunset. But because the kingdom stretches from misty northern hills to two distinct coastal systems, deciding when to go is almost as important as where you go.
The best time to visit Thailand depends on your destination, your travel style, and what weather you’re hoping to experience during your trip. Thailand’s climate is broadly divided into three main seasons: cool and dry, hot and dry, and the wet or monsoon season. Continued …
5 hidden gems in lesser-known cities in Thailand
Secondary cities — less-visited provinces that are not major tourist hotspots and typically attract fewer than four million visitors a year — are gaining popularity among Thai and foreign travelers looking to avoid crowds and seek new experiences.
The Kasikorn Research Center forecasts that the share of Thai domestic trips to secondary cities will edge up to 41.4% in 2025, from 41.3% in the first five months of the year, marking a sharp 32.3% rise from the same period in 2019 (pre-Covid-19). Continued …
A Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao — Thailand’s Tiny Gulf Escape
When a destination is as affordable as it is beautiful, it will always make a compelling case for a relaxing holiday. For many people, that means heading to Thailand, specifically the Gulf of Thailand, where well-trodden islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan offer the ideal combination of stunning beaches, great dining, and luxury stays. Yet, it pays to keep your expectations in check.
In 2023, Koh Samui received 3.54 million travelers — a challenge for most destinations, let alone an island that measures just 25 kilometers from point to point. It’s a similar story on Koh Phangan, with an estimated four million annual visitors. Of course, serene pockets still exist, but finding them requires more than a little careful consideration. Continued …
Australian tourist dies from beating in Phuket, Swedish suspect detained
A 29-year-old Swedish man of Turkish descent was arrested by Phuket police yesterday over the assault and death of a 58-year-old Australian tourist in Patong on Wednesday. Alan Roger Joliffe was knocked to the ground by a blow from the suspect at about 5 pm. He died at 10.23 pm despite medical efforts, prompting a police investigation and manhunt. Continued …
- Immigration Police Arrest Two on Interpol Red Notices – Continued …
- Russian Man Arrested in Phangan Drug Bust – Continued …
- Chinese Man Held at Don Mueang Over VAT Fraud – Continued …
- CCTV Catches Foreign Woman Calmly Stealing Suitcase in Phuket – Continued …
- Tourist Leaves After Claiming Theft, Rejects CCTV Review – Continued …
US AI boom faces electric shock
Technology giants, including Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta, have in recent months announced plans to spend over US$600 billion on AI in 2026 alone. The investment wave has already fueled unease among some investors about the profitability of this strategy. They have reason to be worried, as the ambitious US AI expansion plans are likely to be hobbled by severe power-infrastructure bottlenecks, including turbine shortages, slow grid expansion, and regulatory red tape. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
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 City Municipality has announced temporary road closures on Naresdamri Road from Feb. 19 to March 1, as resurfacing and drainage repair works get under way.
Prachuap kayaking for eternal love was the focus of Valentine’s Day celebrations on Saturday, as 14 couples took part in a nature-based activity organized by Prachuap Town Municipality.
Witsanu Attavanich, an associate professor of economics at Kasetsart University and an expert in resource, environmental, and climate-change economics, provided an update on Thailand’s flood-drought outlook as of yesterday, saying the country has entered the “mid-phase” of the El Niño phenomenon and is likely to shift into a full El Niño by May 2026 — earlier than previously expected. He said the event could persist until at least February 2027.
The Department of Land Transport (DLT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH), is upgrading its service standards to allow motorists aged under 55 to renew their driving licenses online from June.
Department unveils plan for Songkhla Lake bridge
Thailand’s Ministry of Industry has signaled its intent to conclude free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with the European Union by mid-2026, despite the current transition to a caretaker government.
Thailand is witnessing not deglobalization but “reglobalization” — a strategic realignment of trade, production, and finance — requiring the country to integrate its economic and foreign policies more closely than ever before, Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said yesterday.
Business operators along the Thai–Cambodian frontier in Trat province are bracing for a prolonged border shutdown, urging authorities to reopen checkpoints while rapidly pivoting toward domestic markets to survive.
Hotel operators say requesting land and building tax discounts on a yearly basis will not help the business sector reduce its fixed-cost burden in the long run, and urged the government to revise this tax structure to be based on revenue, similar to the previous property tax.
Redefining the future of food
Bangkok has introduced the “EV for Win Riders” initiative to transition motorcycle taxis to electric vehicles. Launched by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and supported by partners like Germany’s GIZ, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, and the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand, the project aims to reduce pollution and operational expenses for riders in the city.
The Department of Energy Business (DOEB) has moved to establish national standards for electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen fuel infrastructure, aiming to streamline investment and ensure safety as Thailand accelerates its transition to clean energy.
The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) is holding its first networking event of 2026 in Hua Hin, hosted at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
A family’s day in Thailand can change in an instant when an accident sends a child to the emergency room, with medical bills rising beyond USD 10,000 within hours. While Thailand appeals to many expat families for its safety, lifestyle, and education options, healthcare costs can be high, especially at private hospitals.
Recently, a couple posted on the social media forum about their experience near Chiang Mai. They found a puppy being bullied by other strays and felt compelled to help. With only two days before leaving the northern province and embarking on a two-week trip around Thailand, they wondered whether bringing the dog to the US was feasible within their timeframe.
The prices of computers and some IT products have skyrocketed as a result of rising rates for memory chips in the global market. Memory chip prices have increased by 80%-90% quarter-on-quarter in 2026, according to the February issue of Memory Price Tracker, marking an unprecedented surge.
A cluster of nine earthquakes measuring between 1.9 and 3.2 on the Richter scale struck tambon Khao Phang in Ban Ta Khun district of the southern province of Surat Thani between Wednesday and Thursday morning, the Department of Mineral Resources reported.
Many Thai small and medium-sized businesses — often run from homes, co-working spaces or cafés — face rising cyber risks that can be as harmful as a flooded shop or a lost delivery. From careless clicks to old software, a single mistake can stop a small team’s operations.
Over the past five years, both public and private universities have been setting up new faculties and launching courses linked to health, driven by the rapidly growing health economy from the trend of people paying more attention to health (wellness) to achieve longevity — living longer in good health.
Thailand’s position as a strategic hub for investors targeting the ASEAN region continues to strengthen, supported by record investment inflows, future-ready national strategies, major connectivity upgrades and rising international confidence in the country’s economic direction.
The highly volatile price swings of gold, which is impacting many Thais obsessed with the yellow metal, has forced the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to step in to regulate the large volume of trading affecting the baht’s rate.
More Chinese tourists are expected to travel overseas during next week’s extra-long Lunar New Year break, with top destinations ranging from Russia and Australia to Thailand and South Korea, travel agencies say, but Japan has lost some of its appeal.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center reported today that PM2.5 levels have surged, with the citywide average hitting 38.7 µg/m³ at 7 am, above the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. The worst affected areas include Nong Chok, where PM2.5 levels hit 50.6 µg/m³.
Bangkok is set to strengthen its waste-management system with two new waste-to-energy power plants being developed by C&G Environmental Protection (Thailand). The projects, valued at 12 billion baht, are located in Nong Khaem in southwest Bangkok and On Nut on the eastern portion of the capital, said chief executive He Ning.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced yesterday the revocation of scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions are harmful to human health, along with the cancellation of vehicle exhaust emissions standards for cars and trucks, This move marks the largest cancellation of climate change policy by this administration to date, following the removal of regulations and actions aimed at promoting fossil fuel development while hindering the growth of clean energy. 
Ongoing efforts to derail multilateral tax cooperation lie at the heart of a global program to replace democratic governance with coercive rule by the extremely wealthy – or what we call 21st-century Caesarism. Any strategy to counter this program, therefore, must recognize that taxing extreme wealth is essential to saving democracy. 
Efforts to raise food sanitation standards across the western central region were the focus of a regional network meeting attended by representatives from eight provinces, including Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan are studying new sand sources as part of plans for beach nourishment to address coastal erosion along the central Gulf of Thailand. The Regional Marine Office, Prachuap Khiri Khan Branch, held a public consultation on Friday morning to outline a project to survey potential sand reserves for use in reinforcing beaches in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon.
The Harvest Wine Run Festival Hua Hin returns to Monsoon Valley Vineyard on March 7, inviting runners, walkers and wine lovers to combine fitness, food, and vineyard fun in one unique event.
Bhumjaithai in landslide victory with counting nearly complete
PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth consecutive day, as authorities reported daily illegal agricultural burning, with satellite data showing multiple fire hotspots despite air quality in some areas remaining within official limits.
Thailand recorded a cumulative burned area of 2.26 million rai between Jan. 1–31, according to an analysis of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, or GISTDA. One rai equals 1,600 square meters, 0.4 acres, or 10,764 square feet.
As Thailand continues to battle worsening PM2.5 pollution and persistent urban smog, air purifiers have quickly shifted from optional home appliances to essential health safeguards, especially for expatriates adjusting to the country’s environmental conditions. Understanding how these machines improve indoor air quality can make a substantial difference to daily comfort and long-term well-being.
A tragic encounter in Thailand is sparking renewed debate about how we share space with large wild animals in popular parks. A 65-year-old Thai tourist was killed on Feb. 2 after being trampled during a morning walk in Khao Yai National Park. Officials said the bull elephant, Oyewan, has now been linked to three deaths, and they will meet to decide next steps, including relocation or attempts to change the animal’s behavior.
Bhumjaithai has outlined an export policy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional markets and strengthening SMEs to compete globally.
Thailand is strengthening its food soft power by transforming local beef into a premium global product. The National Innovation Agency, or NIA, has launched Thailand Beef Fest 2026, showcasing how innovation can raise the quality and international competitiveness of Thai beef.
Thailand’s 4 Strengths to Attract Global Chip Giant: Grand Strategy Needed
The Thai halal industry, which includes food and tourism, has strong growth potential, according to the Thai Muslim Trade Assn. (TMTA). Marut Mekloy, president of the TMTA, said Thailand has a wide range of halal-certified products across various sectors, positioning the country as a prospective global halal trade hub.
Thailand’s tourism industry enters 2026 at a complex and delicately balanced moment. The long-anticipated rebound in Chinese arrivals has fallen short of official forecasts, while breaking news of a virus outbreak in India and Nepal now threatens to disrupt one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets. Together, these developments point to a tourism sector moving beyond recovery and into a period of structural adjustment.
Chiang Mai, once dominated by Chinese visitors, has gradually changed as the foreign market diversifies, with more arrivals from South Korea and Japan, as well as a notable resurgence of long haul tourists.
I Visited One of Thailand’s Oldest Organic Tea Farms
Don’t just eat in Thailand, learn how to cook Thai food, too
They say mother knows best, so mother’s mother must know even better, and what about her mother? Perhaps these historic Thai restaurants can tell us; the ones that have been in Bangkok for so long that our parents can reminisce along with us.
What a difference a single year makes. The once-dominant push to radically reshape society to avert climate catastrophe has collapsed. Look at Davos – the talkfest long dominated by climate advocacy. That consensus has been abandoned by its once strongest proponents.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a landslide election win yesterday, paving the way for her tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and increased military spending aimed at countering China. 
Thailand will impose a temporary nationwide ban on the sale, distribution and serving of alcoholic beverages during the general election. The restriction will be in force from 6 pm yoday until 6 pm tomorrow. During this period, alcohol will not be legally available in any setting nationwide.
The Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI) has sounded the alarm over a critical public health crisis, revealing that the average Thai citizen now consumes 3,650 milligrams of sodium daily. This figure is nearly double the 2,000mg limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), sparking a push for a “Salty Tax” on high-sodium products.
The restaurant industry continues to face several challenges this year, as tourism has not fully recovered, labor shortages persist, and costs remain high. Chanon Koetcharoen, president of the Restaurant Association, said the tourism industry has an uncertain outlook in terms of traveler numbers, contributing to difficulties for eateries this year.
While 786 factories closed in 2025 and 1,220 new ones opened, there were more closures than openings in December for the first time in two years, according to the Kasikorn Research Center. This reflects ongoing structural problems and intense competition in the manufacturing sector, the research center pointed out,
The Department of Mineral Fuels (DMF) is preparing to restart oil and gas exploration and production projects once a new government takes office following tomorrow’s general election, in a bid to attract multi-billion-baht investments and strengthen Thailand’s long-term energy security.
Gulf Development Public Co has successfully secured loan facilities totaling 60,000-million baht to support the development of 27 renewable energy power projects with a total contracted generation capacity of 939 MW.
The U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran issued a security alert early yesterday urging American citizens to “leave Iran now” and make departure plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. The embassy warned of increased security measures, road closures, public transport disruptions, and widespread internet blockages across Iran. 
In January, the number of layoffs in the United States surged to 108,435, marking the highest level since the 2009 subprime crisis. This increase, which represents a rise of 118% compared to January 2025 and 205% compared to December 2025, highlights a troubling trend in the job market. In addition to the surge in layoffs, new hiring also dropped to its lowest point in 17 years, with just 5,306 new positions announced in January. 
Canada and France, which both oppose US President Donald Trump’s claim to Greenland, opened consulates in the Danish autonomous territory’s capital yesterday, in a show of support for the local government. Since returning to the White House last year, Trump has insisted that Washington needs to control the strategic, mineral-rich Arctic island for security reasons. 
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is holding the “Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2026” to promote sports tourism and elevate Muay Thai as a cultural heritage on the international stage.
Two timebombs were defused at the Pattani bus terminal in Muang district yesterday after they were found hidden a toilet, with authorities saying they resembled previous finds at several petrol stations in the province.
The president of Thailand’s fifth-largest bank has acknowledged the country’s economic challenges following its recent characterization as the “sick man of Asia”, arguing the malaise requires deep structural reforms rather than temporary stimulus, while unveiling a strategy to bolster sustainable finance by 40% to 350 billion baht (US$10.1 billion) by 2030.
TikTok has confirmed its long-term investment plan in Thailand worth 270 billion baht, according to caretaker finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
Thailand’s border trade grew to Bt1.937 trillion in 2025, a 6.7% increase from the previous year, as reported by the Ministry of Commerce. This growth allowed the country to maintain a substantial trade surplus amid regional disruptions. Exports reached BT1.063 trillion, and imports rose to Bt874 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of Bt188.6 billion.
Thailand’s Hat Yai picks up the pieces in wake of devastating floods
B.Grimm Power (BGRIM) is positioning clean energy as a game changer for Thailand’s energy transition, accelerating its push into renewables as the country and global industry move toward a low-carbon future.
Bitcoin sank in early Asia trading today, extending a selloff that had already erased all the gains booked by the token since US President Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory. The original cryptocurrency fell as much as 4.8% to a fresh low of US$60,033 this morning, after hours earlier plunging to its lowest level since October 2024, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. It later pared those losses and was up by more than 2% to over $64,400 by 9.12 am in Singapore. 
Australian undercover inspectors have found pubs fail to pour enough beer and other alcohol into customers’ glasses for nearly a third of the drinks they serve. The government sent “secret shopper” officials to 436 licensed venues across the country in October to check if they were filling glasses high enough. Preliminary findings showed 32% of the drinks they served failed to deliver the “correct amount”, said the National Measurement Institute’s audit report released this week. 
Berlayar Estate, a boutique property developer specializing in refined, lifestyle-driven living, has announced the official launch of its newest premium villa collection under the theme “The Journey to Serenity.” This latest portfolio introduces a curated selection of private residential projects in Hua Hin and Pranburi.
High-street coffee chains across Thailand are set to undergo a radical transformation next week as the Department of Health launches a new nationwide standard for freshly brewed drinks. Beginning Feb. 11, any customer ordering a “normal sweetness” beverage will automatically receive a drink containing only 50% of the original sugar recipe.
Thailand is well-known for its wats (Buddhist temples), breathtaking beaches and islands, and vibrant night bazaars. Yet, one feature often overlooked is our convenience stores. Although not one of our cultural monuments, with more than 14,000 outlets nationwide as of 2024 – among the highest densities per capita globally – these stores have become iconic landmarks in their own right.
Park rangers are trying to keep wild elephants away from communities and tourist attractions during the dry season. The measures cover a bull elephant that has killed three people, including a camper, in this Nakhon Ratchasima province.
Fresh research from MoneyTransfers.com has unveiled the planet’s most jam-packed tourist hotspots. The team’s findings reveal that Phuket in Thailand stands as the globe’s most congested tourist magnet. This Thai paradise boasts a staggering 118 tourists for every local inhabitant.
The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has released its “Tourism Business Confidence Index in Thailand, Q4 2025”, based on a survey of 302 foreign tourists using accidental sampling: 200 respondents in Bangkok and 102 in Chonburi.
A Thai family in Nakhon Si Thammarat province mistakenly hosted foreign tourists at a funeral, providing them with food when they believed it to be a restaurant. The tourists apologized after realizing they were at a funeral, not a dining venue.
Chinese New Year celebrations in the island province are expected to be particularly vibrant this year. The upbeat outlook is driven by a strong rebound in the Chinese tourism market and an increase in direct flights from China, according to the Phuket Tourist Business Assn. (PTBA).
Mae Hong Son officials on Monday launched a joint campaign aimed at preventing wildfires and reducing air pollution in the province, with multiple key leaders participating in a kick-off event held in front of the municipal office. The campaign was led by Mae Hong Son Gov. Wiboon Waewbandit, alongside Deputy Gov. Udomsak Khaonoona and Mae Hong Son Mayor Mallika Jeenakham.
Drainage contractor discharged black water into Jomtien sea
From field to forest, restoring rice in Ubon Ratchathani
Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) expects the domestic electric vehicle (EV) market to gain momentum under the government’s new car tax policy set to take effect in 2026, aimed at promoting cleaner energy.
The last Russia-U.S. nuclear arms control treaty, known as New START, is due to expire tomorrow. We look at what the treaty does, what its expiration would mean, and what it may take to establish a new treaty. 
Spain will ban access to social media for minors under 16 and hold company CEOs criminally liable for illegal content, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said yesterday, as he announced several measures to guarantee a safe digital environment. 
France summoned billionaire Elon Musk to a “voluntary interview” as cybercrime authorities yesterday searched the French offices of his social media network X, the Paris public prosecutor’s office said. The operation, which involves the EU police agency Europol, is part of an investigation opened in January 2025 into whether X’s algorithm was used to interfere in French politics. 
Prachuap Khiri Khan has announced a province-wide burning ban, prohibiting all forms of open burning from Feb. 1 (Sunday) to May 31, as authorities move to curb PM2.5 pollution and protect public health.
The Department of Medical Services has confirmed that Rajavithi Hospital and other major medical facilities are fully prepared to handle suspected or confirmed cases of Nipah virus infection, even though no cases have yet been reported in Thailand.
The influx of low-priced goods from China has a far more severe impact than US tariffs on Thai products, says Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).
Tech consulting firm Bluebik foresees three megatrends that will transform organizations into intelligent enterprises amid a volatile economy and intense competition.
Bangkok ranks first as the world’s favourite city for digital nomads, with Chiang Mai close behind. It’s easy to see why. Thailand has a magnetic charm that pulls people in. You come for a short stay, rent a scooter, find a café with fast Wi-Fi, and before you know it, you are talking about “base cities” and lease renewals.
I like to think I’m a pretty cautious and attentive person. So, when I first came to Thailand, I did some homework to avoid any social faux pas. Despite my efforts, there were still some things I didn’t catch until after I arrived.
New plug-and-play solar panels are making home solar more accessible for both homeowners and renters. A “PBS NewsHour” segment showcased how plug-and-play solar panels work and how they have made solar power affordable for many people who previously thought that home solar was unattainable.
The Rice Department is advancing carbon farming as a nationwide strategy to make rice production more sustainable and to support the country’s long-term carbon neutrality goals.
Global gold prices jumped to a fresh all-time high, breaking above $5,400 an ounce, after former US President Donald Trump warned Iran to reach a nuclear deal and the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, as expected. 
Foreign Tourists Cancel 40% of Trat Bookings After Clashes
China remains highest-spending arrivals market
Thai Immigration Bureau Tightens Visa Checks Amid Security Fears
