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Friday’s News-June 30

June 30, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

US Kids Golf 2023 Thailand Tour returns to Black Mountain/
Midnight sea tragedy in Prachuap Khiri Khan claims fisherman’s life/
Chiva-Som to host gala dinner for mangrove conservation/
Passenger’s Leg Severed By Moving Walkway At Don Mueang Airport/
Not The First Time – Airport Moving Walkway Devoured Passenger’s Sandal In 2019/
Don Mueang Airport ranks among the most dangerous airports in the world/
Thailand’s people have spoken. Will its military listen?/
Phitsanulok Quake Shows Buildings Should Be Strengthened: Expert/
Thailand’s barrier-free toll system: a boon for motorists – a challenge for cheaters/
9% of youth smoke illegal vapes, study finds/
Economy: Baht falls to 7-month low/Return of foreign buyers helping property sector to grow/International filmmaking boosts Thai film sector with 1.84-billion-baht earnings/Thailand set to overtake Vietnam as world’s No 2 rice exporter/MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023: Discover the latest products & design/
Tourism: Controversial Thai Tourism Fee Postponed Again/Cruise ship terminal to be built in Pattaya for 7.4 billion baht/Construction of high-speed railway linking three airports delayed by a year/Paradise by the dentist’s drill/
Thailand Experience: 10 Most Terrifying Spiders Found in Thailand/Wat Samphran Dragon Temple, the dragon we all are in awe of/
International: Rising monkey and pig populations pose human disease risk/
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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US Kids Golf 2023 Thailand Tour returns to Black Mountain Golf Club

The worldwide junior golf organization “U.S. Kids Golf” will bring the Tour to Thailand, supported by Golf Impact Center, The Thailand PGA and Chaowarat Golf Academy.

Hua Hin’s Black Mountain Golf Club will exclusively host all six events on the Thailand tour, from August to October 2023. The first event is scheduled for Aug. 6. Continued …

Midnight sea tragedy in Prachuap Khiri Khan claims fisherman’s life

A fishing crew member tragically drowned at sea near Prachuap Khiri Khan region. The unfortunate accident occurred around half past midnight, as revealed by Artit Butlakorn, deputy inspector at Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan Police Station. Local police were alerted by officials at Prachuap Khiri Khan Port Control Center (Pipo).

Upon arrival at the scene near Placharoenlap Bridge, police found a fishing trawler named Pongsombat 5, which was about to dock. On the boat’s deck lay a covered body. Preliminary identification revealed the victim was 43-year-old Prasit. Continued …

Chiva-Som to host gala dinner for mangrove conservation

Hua Hin’s wellness destination Chiva-Som has sceduled a fundraising gala for its mangrove preservation project to celebrate the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem.

On July 26, the world celebrates the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem. The day was designated by UNESCO in 2015 to raise awareness about mangrove ecosystems, and to promote solutions for their conservation, sustainable management and utility. Continued …

Passenger’s Leg Severed By Moving Walkway At Don Mueang Airport

A female passenger’s left leg was ripped off to the knee by a moving walkway at Don Mueang International Airport early yesterday morning and she was quickly taken to Bhumibol Hospital for treatment.

Karan Thanakuljeeraphat, director of Don Mueang Airport, said at 8.30 a.m. that the unidentified female passenger was traveling to Nakhon Si Thammarat and was proceeding through the southern corridor between piers 4-5 in Terminal 2 when hit by the accident. Continued …

Not First Time – Airport Moving Walkway Devoured Passenger’s Sandal In 2019

After a woman’s left leg was severed to the knee by a moving walkway at Don Mueang Airport early yesterday morning it has led to netizens criticizing airport safety, with one of them mentioning that a similar incident occurred four years ago, but fortunately he pulled his foot out of the jammed croc sandal he was wearing, which was then devoured by the machine.

The unnamed passenger said that on July 30, 2019, upon landing at Don Mueang Airport from Osaka, Japan, at around 3.50 a.m., he was going through a moving walkway and just as he was about to step off it his croc got stuck and was so badly jammed he could not lift his foot. Continued …

Don Mueang Airport ranks among the most dangerous airports in the world

The travel website The Boutique Adventurer has ranked Don Mueang Airport as one of the 29 most dangerous airports in the world in 2023. In a recent article published at the end of June 2023, the website revealed the list of the most perilous airports, with Don Mueang Airport securing the 26th position.

According to the report, the list of hazardous airports is not limited to those under development in various countries, as established airports are also included. Countries such as the United States, France, Japan, and Norway have their airports featured in the rankings. Continued …

Thailand’s people have spoken. Will its military listen?

In last month’s parliamentary elections, voters in Thailand made their desire to be rid of military rule and to restore democracy unmistakably clear. They turned out in record numbers and gave overwhelming support to two pro-democracy parties.

Out front in the results was the progressive upstart Move Forward party. Its young leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, should rightly have the claim on the position of prime minister. Continued …

Phitsanulok Quake Shows Buildings Should Be Strengthened: Expert

After a 4.5 magnitude earthquake rocked Phisanulok and was felt in Phichit and Kamphaeng Phet provinces at 12.17 a.m. Yesterday, an academic pointed out that buildings in this zone should be strengthened, as a ministerial regulation governing seismic resistance of structures was only enforced in 2021.

Amorn Pimanmat of Kasetsart University’s engineering faculty said this was a medium magnitude earthquake, but because it was shallow, being 5 kilometers deep at its epicenter in Phitsanulok’s Phai Lom subdistrict, Bang Krathum district, vibrations were felt across this province as well as nearby Phichit and Kamphaeng Phet provinces. Continued …

Thailand’s barrier-free toll system: a boon for motorists – a challenge for cheaters

Launched just over a year ago, Thailand’s M-Flow or barrier-free toll system is now serving more than 110,000 vehicles each day. Although praised for easing traffic flows, it has also been a boon for cheaters, who have sought to exploit the system’s automated license plate recognition and post-pay service.

The issue made headlines again this week when police arrested the driver of a luxury BMW sedan and accused her of evading M-Flow tollgate charges around 260 times. Continued …

9% of youth smoke illegal vapes, study finds

An estimated 9.1% of young people in Thailand use e-cigarettes, mostly due to peer pressure and the influence of their friends, according to the results of a survey by the Department of Health Service Support (DHSS).

The survey was conducted on 61,688 people nationwide between April 25 and June 6. The results showed that 14.6% of young people in Bangkok use vapes, ranking the capital the highest among the 13 areas studied, said DHSS chief Sura Wisetsak. Continued …

Baht falls to 7-month low

The baht has again weakened to 35.60 to the U.S. Dollar, in a continuation of the trend that has been prevalent over the last seven months.

According to Krung Thai Bank’s currency analyst, Poon Panitpiboon, the exchange rate opened yesterday at 35.60 baht/US dollar, breaching the resistance level of 35.50 the previous day. Continued …

Return of foreign buyers helping property sector to grow

Foreign buyers will fuel growth in Thailand’s property market during the second half of this year, but domestic buyers have not fully regained their purchasing power due to unfavorable factors, real estate appraisal and consultancy agencies say.

Thailand’s economy has shown signs of improvement thanks to foreign purchasing power, particularly since China’s reopening, and the country’s tourism sector, as well as selected businesses, are experiencing a resurgence and growth. Continued …

International filmmaking boosts Thai film sector with 1.84-billion-baht earnings

Thailand has seen a prosperous influx of international filmmakers in the first half of this year, with over 200 foreign films being produced in the country, according to deputy government spokesperson Tipanan Sirichana.

This number has resulted in revenue of approximately 1.84 billion baht, signaling a successful outcome of the Thai government’s proactive endeavors to present the nation as a prime shooting location for international film making. Continued …

Thailand set to overtake Vietnam as world’s No 2 rice exporter

Thailand is on track to overtake Vietnam as the world’s second-biggest rice exporter this year, after its shipments in the first four months rose to 2.62 million tons, government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said on Thursday.

This represents an increase of 14.4% over the same period last year, with the government now estimating that total rice exports in 2023 will surpass eight million tons, well above last year’s tally of 7.69 million tons, which put Thailand in third position among global rice exporters following India and Vietnam, respectively. Continued …

MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023: Discover the latest products & design

Jointly organized by Comasia Ltd. (Comasia) and Worldex G.E.C Co. (Worldex), MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023 will be held from July 19-21 at Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC).

The three-day event will bring together 500+ booths, showcasing the latest products and design from Asia, including gifts and premiums, houseware and kitchen, stationery, travel and sporting goods, lifestyle products, smart green home products, outdoor decoration and furniture, etc., which are all highly sought after by the mass population and consumers in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Continued …

Controversial Thai Tourism Fee Postponed Again

The 300-baht ‘land entry’ fee collection has been postponed to Jan. 1 of next year.

The caretaker minister of Tourism and Sports Piphat Ratchakitprakarn told Thai media, “We have agreed to postpone the 300-baht land entry fee collection. which previously was expected to take effect this month to January 1st of next year.” Continued …

Cruise ship terminal to be built in Pattaya for 7.4 billion baht

The Marine Department will this year seek Cabinet approval to build Thailand’s first cruise ship terminal in Pattaya.

The Marine Department will oversee development of the terminal, which will meet growing demand from cruise operators, a senior official said on Thursday. Wannachai Butrthongdee, director of the department’s Engineering Division, said the cruise ship terminal will be built under a public-private partnership (PPP) project worth 7.4 billion baht. Continued …

Construction of high-speed railway linking three airports delayed by a year

The chief of the Eastern Economic Corridor Office on Thursday said that the construction of a high-speed railway linking three airports will be a year behind schedule.

EEC chief Jula Sukmanop said Asia Era One Co., the concessionaire of the Don Mueang-Suvarnabhumi-U-Tapao high-speed railway, could not begin construction this year, as it was still awaiting an approval of investment privileges from the Board of Investment. Continued …

Paradise by the dentist’s drill

I decide to book a flight to tropically beautiful Thailand, known as the land of smiles. I think, to add to my beautiful smile, why don’t I get a problematic wisdom tooth drilled out on the first day I’m there. I mean, it’s not really a holiday in paradise without the sound and feel of a drill reverberating throughout your skull, with the taste of blood and anesthetic trickling down your throat. Is it?

I had shopped around a number of Australian dentists who were unwilling to go near the extraction for fear of causing nerve damage (the impacted tooth had a root that on X-rays looked entangled in a major nerve). The alternative was engaging the services of an oral surgeon, which would have ballooned the price of the procedure into the thousands. Continued …

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10 Most Terrifying Spiders Found in Thailand

Known for its diverse wildlife, Thailand is home to a variety of spine-chilling spiders that will send shivers down your spine. Over 10 species of these hairy, eight-legged creatures prowl the dense forests.

From venomous huntsmen with lightning-fast movements to intimidating tarantulas boasting potent bites, this exploration will take you on a hair-raising journey through the fascinating yet fear-inducing world of Thai spiders. Prepare yourself for a chilling encounter with these formidable eight-legged predators. Continued …

Wat Samphran Dragon Temple, the dragon we all are in awe of

Wat Samphran Dragon Temple, also known as Wat Samphran Temple or the Dragon Temple, is easily one of the most intriguing pieces of temple architecture. Wat Samphran is located in Nakhon Pathom Province in Thailand, approximately 40 kilometers from the capital city of Bangkok.

When you look at Wat Samphran Dragon Temple, you are looking at a uniquely built 17-story tower, adorned with a dragon sculpture that wraps around the entire structure. Continued …

Rising monkey and pig populations pose human disease risk

Exploding populations of wild pigs and macaque monkeys in Southeast Asia are threatening native forests and disease outbreaks in livestock and people, according to research led by The University of Queensland. 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, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-June 29

June 29, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Hua Hin Profile: Mike’s motto and mantra : ‘Staples don’t quit’/
Dengue fever hits Hua Hin, 2 children die/
Standard planning 258-unit residential complex in Hua Hin/
TMD warns of torrential rainfall across 44 Thai provinces/
Pita ‘won’t get 5 votes’ for PM, says senator/
SRT looking at new electric trains instead of diesels/
Bangkok municipal pupils can wear hair styles and clothes of their choice/
Magnitude 4.5 earthquake recorded in Phitsanulok/
Economy: World Bank raises Thailand 2023 growth outlook to 3.9%/Tourism: 2 destinations in Phetchaburi and PKK selected for TAT campaign/‘Captive hell’: Report puts grim reality of wildlife tourism in the spotlight/Group makes plans for tourism future/No more street vendors on Pattaya’s Walking Street/1-in-10 travelers to Thailand now from China/TAT targets 5 million Chinese tourists this year/
International: Meat eating hits new low in Germany/Astronomers reveal evidence of universe’s ‘background hum’/
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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The latest in our ongoing profiles of Hua Hin residents, written by freelance journalist Felicitee Lawrie.

Mike’s motto and mantra : ‘Staples don’t quit’

It is truly easy to admire Mike Staples. He has faced and vanquished a fierce adversary and he is full to the very brim with compassion for those less fortunate than himself. Now he spends his days enjoying his family and dealing with a huge extended family of his own choosing, to whom he devotes copious time and energy. A more charitable man I cannot remember having met.

Mike Staples was born in Dar es Salaam, in what was then Tanganyika, a British mandate in East Africa. His mother was born just south of the great Mount Kilimanjaro, also in Tanganyika, which eventually became the modern-day country of Tanzania. Continued …

Dengue fever hits Hua Hin, 2 children die

Health officials in the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Public Health Office have increased measures to control dengue fever after the deaths of two children.

A total of 196 cases of dengue fever have been reported in Prachuap Khiri Khan province this year so far, with a one-month-old infant and a four-year-old child succumbing to the disease.

Standard planning 258-unit residential complex in Hua Hin

Hotel chain Standard International plans to launch two branded residential projects in Phuket and Hua Hin, while also opening five new hotels with 600 rooms across four destinations in Thailand during 2023-26 to capitalize on robust demand.

In the first quarter of 2024, The Standard’s second branded residential project in Thailand will be launched in Hua Hin. It will be developed by Sansiri Plc, the company’s parent firm, on a beachfront site located 4.5 kilometers from The Standard, Hua Hin hotel. Continued …

TMD warns of torrential rainfall across 44 Thai provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) today warns that a trough will pass over the upper part of the country, causing torrential rainfall in 44 provinces. The southern region will experience heavy rainfall across 70% of its area. Additionally, the seas are predicted to have high waves.

The department‘s weather forecast for the next 24 hours mentions that a trough will pass over the northern region of the country and Laos to join a low-pressure area along the central coast of Vietnam. Continued …

Pita ‘won’t get 5 votes’ for PM, says senator

Pita Limjaroenrat, leader and prime ministerial candidate of the Move Forward Party (MFP), will likely receive fewer than five votes from the Senate in the parliamentary election for the new prime minister, according to a senator.

The dust has already settled, and Pita will be hard pushed to draw five or more votes from the 250 senators during the vote, Kittisak Rattanawaraha, a deputy chairman of the Senate committee on political development and public participation, said on Wednesday. Continued …

SRT looking at new electric trains instead of diesels

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has proposed changing a plan to procure 184 diesel locomotives in favor of electric trains.

SRT Gov. Nirut Maneephan said the proposal has been approved by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) and will be submitted to the new cabinet with an unchanged budget of 1.5 billion baht. Continued …

Bangkok municipal pupils can wear hair styles and clothes of their choice

In an unprecedented move, following increasing calls for freedom and liberties in schools, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has decided to allow students in the 437 schools under its supervision to choose their own hair styles and to wear casual dress at least one day a week.

In one of two letters issued to district chiefs by Wantanee Wattana, the deputy permanent secretary of the BMA, students may wear whatever hair style they wish, but the styles should “look healthy” and improve the personality and confidence of the students. Continued …

Magnitude 4.5 earthquake recorded in Phitsanulok

An earthquake of magnitude 4.5 struck Phitsanulok last night, with the epicenter just 5 kilometers deep, according to reports.

Local media reported that strong tremors were felt in Pailom subdistrict, Bang Krathum district in Phitsanulok at 12.17 am on Wednesday night. Continued …

World Bank raises Thailand 2023 growth outlook to 3.9%

Thailand’s economy is projected to grow 3.9% this year, up from a previous forecast of 3.6%, helped by private consumption growth and a recovery in tourism, the World Bank said on Wednesday.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy expanded 2.6% in 2022, when its tourism sector began to rebound after broad pandemic-related travel curbs were eased. Continued …

2 destinations in Phetchaburi and PKK selected for TAT campaign

Two destinations in the region have secured a spot among the final 25 of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s “Unseen New Chapters: New Corners of Thailand” campaign.

In an announcement made during a ceremony presided over by Yutthasak Supasorn, the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Phetchaburi province’s Tham Bo Cave in Khao Yoi and Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Phra Mahathat Chedi Phakdee Prakat in Bang Saphan have emerged as chosen finalists. Continued …

‘Captive hell’: Report puts grim reality of wildlife tourism in the spotlight

Hundreds of animals in Bali and Lombok are being exploited for tourists’ entertainment, an animal welfare charity claims. The Holidays that Harm report by World Animal Protection states more than 1,300 animals were exploited for tourist entertainment in inadequate conditions across Bali and Lombok. The animals included elephants, orangutans and dolphins.

The recent report covered 34 venues in Bali and Lombok to provide a snapshot of the welfare of animals being used in the tourism industry. Continued …

Group makes plans for tourism future

The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FETTA) is hoping its revival will allow for a more flexible workflow and agenda-based development, after seven tourism associations recently quit the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) and joined FETTA.

Adith Chairattananon, FETTA representative and honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), said the federation will drive policies through a flat organizational structure without a hierarchy. Continued …

No more street vendors on Pattaya’s Walking Street

Pattaya City officials sent out a letter to Walking Street business owners earlier this week informing them of an upcoming change to current policies and procedures.

As of Monday, July 3, street vendors and stalls not part of a licensed building business will need to be entirely removed from Walking Street, according to the notice from Pattaya City officials. Continued …

1-in-10 travelers to Thailand now from China

New figures from SiteMinder, Meituan and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reveal that over 1.3 million of the 11 million-plus international travelers to Thailand have this year arrived from China.

The figures, which indicate that Chinese travelers could constitute one-fifth of all international travelers to Thailand by year’s end, were unveiled at the “Amazing Thailand Sailing with Meituan” event in Bangkok. Continued …

TAT targets 5 million Chinese tourists this year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set an ambitious goal of attracting 5.3 million Chinese tourists and generating 446 billion baht in revenue this year.

However, there are challenges that need to be addressed to achieve these targets. One of the biggest challenges is the competition posed by other countries popular with Chinese travelers, as well as the recovery of the aviation industry. Continued …

Meat eating hits new low in Germany

Florian Busmann used to enjoy sausages and steak on the barbecue in summer, but these days he prefers meat substitutes and grilled vegetables like aubergines and peppers. Continued …

Astronomers reveal evidence of universe’s ‘background hum’

Astronomers across the world announced today that they have found the first evidence of a long-theorized form of gravitational waves that create a “background hum” rumbling throughout the universe. 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, phuket, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-June 27

June 27, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Special education fund-raising event this Sunday in Khao Tao/
Market Village Durian Festival June 30-July 4/
Chokdee Market at Centara on July 2/
What If Pita Is Rejected by the Junta-appointed Senate and Street Protests Resume?/
Monsoon surge raises flood risk across Thailand: 47 provinces on high alert/
COVID infections falling steadily, fewer fatalities over past month/
Bangkok trying new tech to solve traffic problems/
Analyzing the Myanmar Crisis and Thailand’s Complicity/
Economy: Thai economy booms as fiscal income beats projections, with 122B-baht surplus/17 Thai conglomerates make it to Forbes’ ‘Global 2000’ list/Thailand’s real estate sector urges foreign investment boost/Thailand unprepared as foreign investors flock back to ASEAN/Exports drop 4.6% in May/Economic disparity in Thailand widens, agricultural sector hit hardest/Plan to eradicate poverty proposed with 7 ‘sandbox’ provinces/
Tourism: Phuket Peranakan festival dazzles, promotes sustainable tourism and local culture/
Thailand Experience: July packed full of amazing festivals and events around Thailand/The most popular Thai dish among Aussies revealed/The most hard-to-book restaurants in Bangkok, from street food to fine dining
International: Biden: US, allies not involved in uprising against Putin/Hong Kong sees over 1 million visitors during Dragon Boat Festival/World’s largest hydro-solar power station at the highest altitude in Tibet/Jumbo problem: Sri Lanka’s battle with plastic pollution
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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Special education fund-raising event this Sunday in Khao Tao

Khao Tao Beach will host the Ejan Satu Koh Singto Challenge this Sunday. The event raises funds for a state-of-the-art school for children with special educational needs or disabilities.

The Special Children’s School is being built in Hin Lek Fai, and will provide educational facilities for 48 children currently attending the Special Education Center at Anubaan Hua Hin Nongkhon School.

The school assists children with speech and language difficulties, hearing or visual impairments, autism spectrum disorders, and emotional and behavioral issues.

Event competitors swim and kayak out to Koh Singto, covering distances of 5km and 13km, respectively. The event gets underway on Khao Tao beach at 6am on Sunday morning. – HHT

What If Pita Is Rejected by the Junta-appointed Senate and Street Protests Resume?

With the Parliament to reconvene on July 3, the voting for the new prime minister is not too far away. Some prominent junta-appointed senators continue to claim that Move Forward Party PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat will not be getting their support, or enough votes, and the possibility that Pita will not be chosen as the next PM is a lingering fear.

For weeks now, some protest leaders, including monarchy-reform protest co-leader Arnon Nampa, have been reminding protesters to be prepared to take to the streets en masse in case of such an eventuality. Continued …

Monsoon surge raises flood risk across Thailand: 47 provinces on high alert

Swelling rainfall across Thailand, spurred by the increasing strength of a monsoon, coupled with an area of low atmospheric pressure, has compelled the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) to warn that 47 provinces could face potentially hazardous situations.

Over the next 24 hours, it predicts 60% of their areas will face heavy rain, with the severity being the most significant in the northern and northeastern regions of the country. Continued …

COVID infections falling steadily, fewer fatalities over past month

New COVID-19 infections in Thailand and other countries were steadily falling over the past month, with fewer fatalities, according to Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, public health permanent secretary.

He expressed concern, however, for people over 60 and those suffering from underlying diseases, pointing out that most of the fatalities were people over 70 and those who were not vaccinated. Continued …

Bangkok trying new tech to solve traffic problems

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched an automatic traffic-management system on four city roads in a pilot project aimed at boosting vehicle flow along the routes.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt, who presided over the launch, said the system had been installed at 13 intersections on Rama VI Road, Ratchawithi Road, Phahon Yothin Road and Praditpat Road. Continued …

Analyzing the Myanmar Crisis and Thailand’s Complicity

2,146 kilometers of landlocked demarcation is all that cuts through Myanmar and Thailand, two Southeast Asian nations that share a complicated, erstwhile rivalry that has evolved into a mutual bilateralism in the scope of current developments, with the incumbent Prayuth Chan-ocha regime cozying up to the likes of the Tatmadaw, Myanmar’s armed forces.

These two countries are nothing alike; they do not share any linguistic overlap nor do they have any cultural heritages together, and they follow drastically different models of governance. In that sense, they are not complementary to each other, but centuries of warfare and geopolitical realities have shaped a new outlook. Continued …

Thai economy booms as fiscal income beats projections, with 122B-baht surplus

The Thai economy demonstrated strong recovery and active imports as the Thai government’s net income during the first two-thirds of fiscal 2023 has surpassed projections by 122 billion baht.

Between October 2022 and May 2023, the Thai government raked in a total of 1.64 trillion baht, which is an 8% surge from the previous year’s growth rate of 4.9%. This leap also exceeded the target set by 122 billion baht. Continued …

17 Thai conglomerates make it to Forbes’ ‘Global 2000’ list

Forbes magazine has released its 20th annual ranking of the world’s top-performing conglomerates for the year 2023, with JP Morgan, the largest bank in the U.S. with US$3.7 trillion in assets, securing the first position for the first time since 2011.

Following closely behind is Saudi Aramco, the energy giant of Saudi Arabia, in second place, and three Chinese state-owned banks led by ICBC. Other notable companies in the top 10 include technology giants Alphabet (ranked 7th), Microsoft (ranked 9th), and Apple (ranked 10th). Continued …

Thailand’s real estate sector urges foreign investment boost

With an eye on boosting the economy, real estate developers and consultants are urging Thailand‘s new government to implement policies that promote foreign investment. They contend such measures will stimulate a more positive environment for overseas buyers in the property market, suggesting promotional efforts to increase awareness among foreign investors.

Artitaya Kasemlawan, head of residential sales projects at CBRE Thailand, said, “The attractiveness of Thailand as a destination for foreign buyers is unquestionable.” Continued …

Thailand unprepared as foreign investors flock back to ASEAN

Foreign investment in Thailand remains weak compared with ASEAN neighbors such as Vietnam and Malaysia, where it has recovered faster since the pandemic.

Even the 16th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention, held in Thailand over the weekend (June 24-26), saw minimal investment from foreign businesses. The Covid-19 crisis saw a severe contraction in trade and investment across the world, including foreign direct investment (FDI) in Thailand. Continued …

Exports drop 4.6% in May

Thailand’s customs-based exports in May contracted 4.6% from a year earlier, the Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday.

The reading compared with an 8% year-on-year drop forecast for May in a Reuters poll, and came after April’s 7.6% drop. Continued …

Economic disparity in Thailand widens, agricultural sector hit hardest

The age-old struggle with economic disparity continues to cast a shadow on Thailand’s society as inequality widens, particularly in the agricultural sector, which sees roughly 6% to 8% of its populace remaining below the poverty line.

According to a recent study by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), this disparity has been fueled by multiple factors, including the move to a digital economy, an aging society, post-Covid-19 economic recovery speed, and the burning issue of climate change. Continued …

Plan to eradicate poverty proposed with 7 ‘sandbox’ provinces

A local development agency is to propose a new sandbox project in seven target provinces to the new government, with the aim of eradicating poverty in these areas by the year 2027.

During the seminar “Thailand’s poverty situation: Problems and solutions” on Monday, the Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO) said it is planning a sandbox program in 7 target provinces after more than four years of surveying the 20 poorest provinces of Thailand. Continued …

Phuket Peranakan festival dazzles, promotes sustainable tourism and local culture

In a resounding celebration of heritage and culture, over 1,000 people gathered for the Phuket Peranakan Festival‘s “Extravaganza Carnival” grand parade. The event unfolded in the vintage vicinity of Phuket Old Town Saturday evening.

The carnival, the crown jewel of the three-day extravaganza, resulted in the closure of roads, culminating in a tremendous spectacle. The festival wrapped up yesterday. Continued …

Reading the elephant manual

July packed full of amazing festivals and events around Thailand

The Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2023, beach fun with the Amazing Ultimate Festival, Pai Jazz & Blues Fest 2023, Hua Hin Cricket Sixes, Amazing Thai Taste@Chiang Mai, Tai Lue Local Festival, Amazing Muay Thai Experience, and VERY Summer Fest 2023 music festival… there’s this and more happening in July 2023.

Here is a list of what’s on, sorted by event date: Continued …

The most popular Thai dish among Aussies revealed

Thai food is loved around the world for its mouth-watering dishes made from fresh ingredients and topped with delicious spices. But when it comes to ordering from a Thai restaurant, which dish takes the crown?

How to make vegetarian pad Thai – video

A recent poll conducted by Nine.com.au has determined what is the most popular Thai food order among Aussies. Continued …

The most hard-to-book restaurants in Bangkok, from street food to fine dining

Last week, Bangkok fine diners loudly and proudly applauded the inauguration of two Bangkok restaurants onto the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list. Surpassed in Asia only by Japan (with three entries), it became apparent that the dining scene in Thailand is only growing stronger and becoming more globally recognized.

National pride aside, this also means that Bangkok has some of the most hard-to-book restaurant tables in the world. Be it fine dining or casual street food, here are the most impossible reservations in the city. Continued …

Biden: US, allies not involved in uprising against Putin

U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday said a brief uprising by Russian mercenaries against the Kremlin is part of a struggle within the Russian system and the United States and its allies were not involved in it. “We made clear we were not involved, we had nothing to do with this,” Biden said. Continued …

Hong Kong sees over 1 million visitors during Dragon Boat Festival

Hong Kong saw over one million visitors during the three-day Dragon Boat Festival holiday that ended on Saturday, according to data from the Immigration Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government. Continued …

World’s largest hydro-solar power station at the highest altitude in Tibet

The first phase of the world’s largest hydro-solar power station at the highest altitude has been put into operation. The first phase of the Kela photovoltaic power station is located on a mountain at an altitude of 4,600 meters in Yajiang County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of southwest China’s Sichuan Province. Continued …

Jumbo problem: Sri Lanka’s battle with plastic pollution

Heart-wrenching images of revered elephants and cattle eating plastic in Sri Lanka have prompted politicians to toughen pollution laws, but skeptical conservationists warn past bans were repeatedly ignored. 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

baht, bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Monday’s News-June 26

June 26, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Heavy rainfall predicted across Thailand due to monsoon impact/
Thai baht weakens to baht35/USD/
Optimism grows for new government, Anutin defends pot industry/
Police, military prepare for mass protests if Pita’s bid to be PM is thwarted/
Ceremony at Tham Luang marks 5th anniversary of rescue mission/
Economy: Thailand No.1 in ASEAN according to UN’s 2023 Sustainable Development ranking/Thai Durian Exports to Vietnam Soar 10,000% as New Gateway to China/
Tourism: Chinese Tourists Face Charges for Taking Photos with Starfish/
Thailand Experience: Bangkok’s Baan Krua, a resilient community crafting its own future/Chiang Mai: Hipster magnet meets Buddhist cultural capital/An eco-friendly trip in Phuket/Ghostly good times in Loei/Longan fruit guide: Discovering Thailand’s sweet gem/20 Thailand islands to explore/The Thai food revolution: Young chefs put Bangkok on the fine-dining map/
International: Russian mercenaries halt march to Moscow/Vietnam approves extending e-visas to 90 days/
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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Heavy rainfall predicted across Thailand due to monsoon impact

In the forecast for the next 24 hours, weather conditions across Thailand are expected to turn severe, with heavy rains predicted in the northern and northeastern regions, and a significant 60% of Bangkok areas facing heavy downpours.

These conditions are following the impact of a monsoon trough passing over the northern region and upper Laos, which is leading into a low-pressure area over upper Vietnam, and the monsoon tides sweeping over the Andaman Sea and the Thai bay. Continued …

Thai baht weakens to baht35/USD

The Thai baht opened this morning at 35.13 baht per U.S. dollar, down from the previous day’s closing rate of 35.06 baht per U.S. dollar. This represents the sharpest weakening in more than three months, according to Krung Thai Bank’s Money Market Division analyst Poon Panichpibul.

Factors supporting the depreciation stem from the strengthening of the USD, which comes with a contraction in the price of gold, putting pressure on the Thai baht due to the reduced demand for gold purchases. Continued …

Optimism grows for new government, Anutin defends pot industry

Constructive noises from the Bhumjaithai Party and Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s plea to the new government to protect the nascent cannabis industry comes in a week that has seen a shift in attitude by the establishment toward the election results, with increased optimism that a new government will be formed in July rather than in August as was originally envisaged.

The incoming government must act cautiously concerning calls to relist cannabis as a scheduled narcotic, warned Thai Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul this week. He told reporters, on Sunday, that he believed there will be a new government in July led by Pita Limjaroenrat, while denying reports of an approach by the Move Forward Party to the Bhumjaithai Party to support the new ministry in parliament. Continued …

Police, military prepare for mass protests if Pita’s bid to be PM is thwarted

The armed forces and the Royal Thai Police are discussing security measures to implement if turmoil and violence erupts should Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat fail to be elected prime minister in the middle of next month, military and police sources said.

They said the armed forces and police fear that supporters of Move Forward and its major coalition party, Pheu Thai, may stage violent protests if the Move Forward-led coalition of 313 MPs fails to win support from 63 senators or MPs from other parties to elect Pita as the next prime minister of Thailand. Continued …

Ceremony at Tham Luang marks 5th anniversary of rescue mission

A ceremony was held in front of the Tham Luang cave in Chiang Rai province on Saturday to mark the fifth anniversary of the global mission to save young footballers and their coach who were stranded in a flooded cave.

Photos of ex-Thai Navy Seal diver Saman Kunan, who died during the mission, ex-Chiang Rai governor Narongsak Osatanakorn, who died on Wednesday, and Wild Boars football team member Duangphet Promthep, who died earlier this year in England, were set up in the area to commemorate their passing. Continued …

Thailand No.1 in ASEAN according to UN’s 2023 Sustainable Development ranking

Thailand‘s recent economic, social, and green development has been reflected in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Report for 2023. In a statement relayed by Trisulee Trisoranakul, the deputy government spokesperson, Thailand has now improved its standing to the 43rd position among 166 countries from 44th last year.

The Sustainable Development Report outlines that Thailand has, for the fifth consecutive year, held the number one spot for sustainable development within the ASEAN region. This successful development, represented through an SDG Index score of 74.7 in 2023, underlines the government’s efforts to foster sustainable progress. Continued …

Thai Durian Exports to Vietnam Soar 10,000% as New Gateway to China

According to the Ministry of Commerce’s report for the first four months (Jan.-April) of 2023, Thailand’s durian exports and frozen durian had a total value of 63,627 million baht, up 166% from the same period last year.

The top export market was China, with a value of 62,068 million baht, an increase of 170% from the previous year, followed by Hong Kong with a value of 941 million baht, up 77% year-on-year, and Taiwan with a value of 198 million baht, up 36% year-on-year. Continued …

Chinese Tourists Face Charges for Taking Photos with Starfish

Marine protection officials on Friday filed a police complaint against Chinese tourists for taking photos with rare sea creatures in the sea off Koh Racha.

Chinese tourists Sanyang Qin and Wen Zhang were accused of holding up a starfish and stepping on coral reefs during their Thursday diving trip in Phuket province. Their actions violated a law forbidding harm to the coastal environment, environment minister Varawut Silpa-archa said. Continued …

Bangkok’s Baan Krua, a resilient community crafting its own future

Go across a canal from Bangkok’s swanky speakeasies and megawatt malls to find a tangle of tiny lanes weaving through a community long written off as forsaken and impoverished.

While visitors flock to tour the Jim Thompson House, few cross a nearby footbridge to where it all began in a claustrophobic maze of homes once filled with looms weaving silk. Decades after Thompson’s mysterious 1967 disappearance, the perception endures that Baan Krua’s prosperity and future vanished along with its foreign benefactor. Continued …

Chiang Mai: Hipster magnet meets Buddhist cultural capital

The 2020s version of the hipster is a far cry from the beatniks or hippies of the swinging ’60s. The modern hipster is likely to be a coffee snob, shop at an organic food store, profit from their creative pursuits.

You’re likely to bump into one of them in a songthaew or what tourists call red cars in Chiang Mai — a sort of repurposed pickup truck that is used as public transport. Thailand’s northern hub has long been at the center of the country’s culture, language and religion. Today it’s also a magnet for solo travelers and pilgrims who have over 300 temples to choose from. Continued …

An eco-friendly trip in Phuket

From island hopping to jungle exploration, Phuket is one of the most attractive places to visit in Thailand. There are plenty of water activities to do in Phuket, such as kayaking, snorkeling and swimming. But what can make it an experience of a lifetime is a vacation that contributes to marine life conservation.

Phuket is known as the “Pearl of the Andaman” and is the largest island in Thailand. The beaches and crystal-clear waters make it a top destination for a tropical beach getaway. Furthermore, Phuket is known for its conservation and educational centers. Continued …

Ghostly good times in Loei

Decked out in elaborate long-nosed masks and ruffled pants, hundreds of people banged cowbells and danced in a grand parade on Saturday at the annual ghost festival in this northeastern province.

The streets of Dan Sai district in Loei province were awash with color and traditional music at the Phi Ta Khon carnival as participants summoned the spirits before thousands of spectators. Continued …

Longan fruit guide: Discovering Thailand’s sweet gem

Longan, or ลำไย “lum yai” in Thai, is a juicy, sweet fruit that tastes similar to lychee. Known as “dragon’s eye” due to its translucent, white flesh with a central black seed, longan is a popular option when it comes to tropical fruits in Thailand.

When visiting Thailand, longan fruit is a must-try because of its sweetness and numerous culinary applications. Let’s explore this delicious tropical fruit’s history, seasonality, health benefits, variety. Continued …

20 Thailand islands to explore

Thailand is home to some of the world’s best islands. When you picture paradise, sparkling turquoise water, spotless white sand stretching for miles and swaying palm trees may come to mind, and this is exactly what you’ll find on all of Thailand’s islands.

Aside from the fact that there are over 1,400 to choose from, each one offers something different besides the natural allure of the beaches and relaxation. Continued …

The Thai food revolution: Young chefs put Bangkok on the fine-dining map

Thailand has long been known for its excellent and affordable street food and, on the other end of the spectrum, its classic royal Thai cuisine. But the progressive Thai food now being served in boundary-breaking restaurants across Bangkok, and increasingly in other parts of the country, is something else entirely.

A new generation of chefs are reinterpreting Thai food, putting street food on the proverbial white tablecloths of the fine-dining space, and digging into history to tell stories about their food culture. Continued …

Russian mercenaries halt march to Moscow

Wagner fighters were leaving Russia’s southern Voronezh region Sunday, the local governor said, after the group halted a dramatic rebellion to bring down Russia’s top brass and U-turned on a march to Moscow. Continued …

Vietnam approves extending e-visas to 90 days

The National Assembly has approved extending tourist e-visas from 30 to 90 days, starting from Aug. 15, 2023, at its ongoing fifth session held on Saturday. Upon being granted an e-visa, a foreigner can enter and exit an unlimited number of times within 90 days, without having to go through procedures for obtaining a new visa. 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, cha am, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s News-June 22

June 22, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Martin Wuethrich appointed GM of Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa/
Traffic lights installed at Khao Tao junction/
Formal opening of new Phetchaburi Immigration office in Cha Am/
New PM in July a turning point for the Thai economy/
Official who oversaw Wild Boars rescue dies of cancer/
Remembering the “Moo Pa” Governor – the hero of the cave rescue/
Cheesemaker Spreads Joy In Tropical Thailand/
Laughing chickens bring joy and profit to Thai farm with their quirky crowing
AI Used to Catch Illegal Riders on Bangkok Footpaths/
Pattaya to construct four monorail lines/
Leopard sightings now common in Thai forests/
Tiger warning issued after footprints found near communities in Yala/
Economy: Thai economy stimulus: Government plans 1.9-trillion-baht boost/Phuket renews focus on medical hub plans after failing to win Expo bid /Foreigners snap up condo units/
Tourism: TAT unveils Meaningful Wellness Travel programs/Muay Thai travel experience campaign launched by TAT/
International: Journey to the bottom of the sea: On a Titanic tour/ASEAN emerges as top investment hub for EVs’ manufacturing and fintech firms/India’s IndiGo places record order for 500 A320 aircraft/China’s economic woes deepen/
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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Martin Wuethrich appointed GM of Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa

Martin Wuethrich has been appointed as the new general manager of Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa. Bringing with him 30 years of hospitality experience and expertise, the Swiss national was most recently the general manager at Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur. – ttgasia.com

Traffic lights installed at Khao Tao junction

In a move aimed at enhancing road safety and address the recurring accidents at the junction of Soi Hua Hin 101 at Khao Tao, Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul, has announced the installation of traffic lights at the problematic intersection.

The traffic signals are expected to be operational by August this year. Continued …

Formal opening of new Phetchaburi Immigration office in Cha Am

The formal opening ceremony of the new Phetchaburi Immigration office in Cha Am took place on June 16.

While the office has been operational since March, the ceremony served as an official inauguration of the building, showcasing its modern facilities and improved services. Continued …

New PM in July a turning point for the Thai economy

As news emerged on Wednesday that a new government could be in place in July and not August as previously envisaged, a senior economist at Siam Commercial Bank has singled out the formation of a new government with a new prime minister without a political accident or stalemate developing as critical to the country’s economy this year, which could grow by up to 4% driven by a rebounding foreign tourism industry and younger Asian travelers with stronger consumer confidence as a result.

On Wednesday, the caretaker government’s legal expert, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam, outlined a schedule that will see parliament meet earlier than anticipated in July and a new government put in place within the month. Continued …

Official who oversaw Wild Boars rescue dies of cancer

Pathum Thani Gov. Narongsak Osottanakorn, who was hailed for his role in coordinating the “Wild Boars” rescue operation in Chiang Rai over four years ago, has died after unsuccessful treatment for cancer, according to a senior official of the Interior Ministry.

He said Narongsak, 58, passed away peacefully at Siriraj Hospital at around 6pm on Wednesday. Continued …

Remembering the “Moo Pa” Governor – the hero of the cave rescue

Narongsak Osatanakorn was appointed to oversee a supposedly sleepy province in the north but ended up having to supervise one of its most breathtaking events that will forever be recorded not just in local, but also in international history.

Narongsak passed away on June 21 at the age of 58. He will be remembered forever as the “Moo Pa” (Wild Boar) governor for his strong leadership throughout the search-and-rescue mission for the 12 young footballers and their coach. On June 23, 2018, Narongsak, then governor of Northern Thailand’s Chiang Rai province, was set to leave for his new post in Phayao, another quiet northern province, but extended his stay to head up an almost impossible mission. Continued …

Cheesemaker Spreads Joy In Tropical Thailand

Thailand is renowned for its vibrant street food and luscious tropical fruits, but Rachanikorn Srikong is on a mission to make a new addition to the menu – cheese.

Vivid green rice paddies and fruit orchards cover the kingdom’s countryside, but dairy accounts for a tiny proportion of agriculture and cheese has not traditionally been part of the Thai diet. Continued …

Laughing chickens bring joy and profit to Thai farm with their quirky crowing

Unique laughing chickens in Trang are gaining popularity among farmers who are speedily breeding the novel birds for sale, creating an extra source of income. With a sound that resembles human laughter, the amusing birds are brightening people’s days and attracting eager customers.

Kritiwit Eiadnun, also known as Goong Kuanhan, a 50-year-old hospital worker and owner of the Pa Saun Kwang farm in Muang district, decided to breed the so-called “laughing chickens.” Continued …

AI Used to Catch Illegal Riders on Bangkok Footpaths

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has introduced artificial intelligence (AI) software to detect motorcyclists illegally riding on footpaths, through CCTV cameras at five spots before expanding the system to cover 100 locations across the capital.

According to the BMA, road accidents occurred to 900 pedestrians every year and it received most complaints about riders traveling on footpaths. Continued …

Pattaya to construct four monorail lines

The Pattaya City Administration plans to introduce four monorail lines to ease traffic congestion. It will begin with a 9.9-kilometer “Green Line” route, which will connect the future high-speed train station to Bali Hai pier.

Pongtavee Lertpanyavit, a project study supervisor, on Wednesday told the media the long-awaited monorail project would help mitigate traffic congestion and improve the city’s transport system. Continued …

Leopard sightings now common in Thai forests

Once rarely seen by visitors, sightings of leopards or panthers have become relatively common among tourists in Kraeng Krachan National Park, proof positive that Thailand’s work to protect and conserve endangered big cat species are bearing fruit.

The sightings have prompted the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to announce that it will cooperate with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to survey the population of leopards and panthers in Thailand to determine their numbers and locations. Initially, they will focus on the western forest complex, of which Kraeng Krachan is a part, as well as the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai and Phu Khieo-Nam Nao forest complexes. Continued …

Tiger warning issued after footprints found near communities in Yala

Villagers living near the edge of Bang Lang National Park in Tarnto district of Thailand’s southern province of Yala have been advised by park officials not to venture out on their farms after recent footprints of a tiger were found.

Padet Laithong, director of the Wildlife Conservation Office of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said a team of veterinarians and officials from the national park have been sent to investigate and assess the situation. Continued …

Thai economy stimulus: Government plans 1.9-trillion-baht boost

Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) unveiled plans to inject 1.9 trillion baht into the Thai economy to bridge the gap before the new government can budget for the year 2024, emphasizing fiscal reforms and monitoring household debt.

Secretary-General Danucha Pichayanan highlighted the need for industry restructuring and government action in response to shrinking exports, which is affecting the whole region, including Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. With an expected increase in foreign tourists and strong private consumption, the Thai economy is expected to remain healthy. Continued …

Phuket renews focus on medical hub plans after failing to win Expo bid

Phuket is turning its attention back to its international medical hub plans after losing out to Belgrade in its bid to host the next Specialized Expo. According to a report, government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri says the island will now market itself as a world-class health and wellness destination, in addition to its reputation as a favorite tropical island with lots of beaches and world-class entertainment.

While Phuket passed in the first round of voting to determine the Expo host yesterday, it was eliminated in the second round. In addition to Belgrade, the island was competing against Minnesota in the U.S., Malaga in Spain, and Bariloche in Argentina. Continued …

Foreigners snap up condo units

Foreigners spent more than 17 billion baht on condominiums in Thailand during the first quarter of 2023, an increase of 67% year on year and the highest in five years, the Government Housing Bank’s Real Estate Information Center (REIC) reported on Wednesday.

A total of 3,775 condominium units worth 17.12 billion baht were transferred to foreigners from January to March, the center said. This number is 79.2% higher than the same period last year. Continued …

TAT unveils Meaningful Wellness Travel programs

Embarking on a wellness journey in the 21st century has taken a significant turn, as people across the globe seek deeper meaning in their lives. Meaningful Wellness Travel has emerged in the realm of wellness tourism, reflecting the aspirations of post-Covid wellness travelers who yearn for more than just a spa retreat.

Travelers are seeking a transformative voyage that nurtures their physical and mental well-being, encompassing profound discovery, authentic connections, personal growth, and genuine fulfillment. In other words, a journey that fosters a beautiful harmony between people, culture, and nature. Continued …

Muay Thai travel experience campaign launched by TAT

The “Amazing Muay Thai Travel Experience” campaign has been launched in an attempt to expand Thailand’s tourism industry. This unique initiative aims to showcase the diverse ancient Thai martial arts across the four regions of the country.

Apichai Chatchalermkit, TAT’s deputy governor for tourism products and business, emphasized the use of the fighting art as a soft power asset to attract more visitors. Continued …

Journey to the bottom of the sea: On a Titanic tour

The journey to the ocean floor to reach the wreck of the Titanic is one that gets relentlessly colder and darker, says one of the handful of people who have ever visited the luxury liner’s watery grave. Continued …

ASEAN emerges as top investment hub for EVs’ manufacturing and fintech firms

Southeast Asia has emerged as a global investment hub, with the region serving as a “bright spot “despite global challenges, including geopolitical conflicts, inflationary pressures and economic slowdown, a forum heard on Tuesday. Continued …

India’s IndiGo places record order for 500 A320 aircraft

IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, has placed a firm order for 500 A320 Family aircraft, setting the record for the biggest single purchase agreement in the history of commercial aviation. Continued …

China’s economic woes deepen

The Chinese economy, which was once a beacon of hope as the world’s second-largest economy, is now faltering. Domestic consumption, imports, exports, and high debt levels are all contributing to the crisis. The hope of becoming a global engine may not materialize, as young people losing their jobs becomes a common occurrence. 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

chiang mai, climate change, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-June 21

June 21, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Today is the first day of summer and the longest day of the year.

Monsoon Valley Vineyard Fest Aug 11-13/
Pita Catches Covid For The Third Time, Coalition Talks Put Off/
El Niño is brewing – and that’s bad news for drought-prone Thailand/
Dengue situation could worsen this year, Disease Control Dept fears/
Taiwanese National Arrested in Nan Province for Overstaying 3,971 Days/
Another chonky feline survives Thai balcony plunge/
Economy: Failure to install new govt by August could affect GDP/Pizza Company rolling out another 40 branches to feed growing Thai appetite/Rice export surge: Thailand fast-tracks new varieties to boost global market share/
Tourism: TAT governor discusses his job, Thailand’s allure/Election uncertainty affects Thai tourism; domestic spending slows down/Thailand welcomes 11.8 million tourists this year, earns 494 baht in revenue/Chiang Mai sweats reputation after Chinese TikToker’s thong videos/Unleashing Thailand’s Soft Power Potential/Unfinished 29-million-baht tourist center in Satun languishes after six years/Thai Vietjet tempts with Zero THB fares/
Thailand Experience: 10 best Thailand beaches/
International: Sweltering Heat, Power Cuts In India Overwhelm Hospitals, Death Toll at 170/Titanic tourist sub still missing, as rescuers race the clock/Ocean warming depleting fish, reducing size: Malaysian study/Sudan war uproots 2.5 million, UN says, as bodies line Darfur streets/Iceland suspends whale hunt/Massive marlin disqualified from N.C. fishing tournament, costing crew $3.5M title/
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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Pita Catches Covid For The Third Time, Coalition Talks Put Off

Move Forward leader and prime minister-designate Pita Limjaroenrat has caught Covid-19 for the third time, and, as he is now self-isolating a meeting of the eight-partner coalition government scheduled for Thursday June 22 has been put off to next week.

Chaitawat Tulathon, Move Forward’s secretary-general, said while this key meeting has been postponed, a seminar to be attended by Move Forward’s new MPs scheduled for June 21-23 will continue with him standing in on Pita’s behalf. Continued …

El Niño is brewing – and that’s bad news for drought-prone Thailand

The arrival of El Niño this year is likely to drive global temperatures up to record levels in the next few years, according to scientists. That’s bad news for drought-prone Thailand.

El Niño is triggered by a rise in surface temperatures of the eastern Pacific Ocean, leading to a phase of planet warming. The natural phenomenon usually occurs every two to seven years and brings reduced rainfall in Southeast Asia and southern Australia. Continued …

Dengue situation could worsen this year, Disease Control Dept fears

The Disease Control Department is worried that the dengue fever situation in Thailand will worsen this year as the death toll has risen to 17 and the number of cases have soared to over 19,000 early this month, the government spokesman said on Tuesday.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said the department has reported a high number of dengue fever cases even before the arrival of the rainy season, when usually cases increase. Continued …

Taiwanese National Arrested in Nan Province for Overstaying 3,971 Days

On June 19 at Chaisathan subdistrict, Mueang Nan District, Nan Province, the Nan Immigration Office, led by Police Col. Apisak Pisanno, director of Nan Immigration and team, apprehended an overstaying Taiwanese male. The individual had been residing in the Kingdom of Thailand without proper authorization for a duration exceeding 3,971 days.

The arrest was prompted by a report received by the Nan Immigration office from foreign service officers indicating that a Taiwanese national had traveled to Thailand and inquired about information regarding staying in the country. Continued …

Another chonky feline survives Thai balcony plunge

Thailand’s murderous balconies would have claimed another soul last night – if it didn’t have eight to spare.

Mochi the cat fell from the fifth floor of an unspecified residential building and landed on the front window of a pickup truck Monday evening. Fortunately, Mochi only suffered a broken chin in the fall, according to his human companion Bambie. Continued …

Failure to install new govt by August could affect GDP

Hailing the announcement by the Election Commission (EC) that it has certified the 500 members of parliament as good news for the private sector, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is now hoping to see the formation of a new coalition Thai government by August.

FTI Chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul stressed the importance of avoiding any delays that could impact investor confidence, leading to a slowdown in investment until a new government is formed. Continued …

Pizza Company rolling out another 40 branches to feed growing Thai appetite

The Pizza Company will serve Thailand’s hungry diners an extra slice this year by opening another 40 branches nationwide, its general manager said on Tuesday.

In its biggest rebrand since landing in Thailand 22 years ago, the franchise operated by Minor Food Group will also renovate existing outlets while targeting a 15% boost in membership. The ongoing overhaul comes in response to Thailand’s growing hunger for dine-in, take-out, and delivery pizza. Continued …

Rice export surge: Thailand fast-tracks new varieties to boost global market share

Thailand is making significant strides in boosting its export competitiveness by fast-tracking the development of new rice varieties to meet global market demand, with plans to introduce 30 new varieties in the coming year.

Following the “new rice variety contest for Commerce” event, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit discussed Thailand’s efforts to combat the lack of diversity in its product offerings within the global rice market. This led to the country’s increased focus on producing new rice varieties to compete with other market players. Continued …

TAT governor discusses his job, Thailand’s allure

As a long-standing trusted partner of the Tourism Authority of Thailand UK, The Luxury Editor’s, Ross Fraser, was invited to meet Yuthasak Supasorn, the governor of Tourism Authority of Thailand at the UK agent roadshow in Glasgow earlier this month. This is Tourism Authority of Thailand’s first UK agent roadshow in three years, which was hosted in both Manchester and Glasgow.

The significance of the roadshow was further amplified given that the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand is retiring this year and his attendance was to be his final business trip to the UK. Continued …

Election uncertainty affects Thai tourism; domestic spending slows down

As the Election Commission validates candidates for MP-elect roles this week, tourism operators expressed concern about a slowdown in domestic spending. Travelers appear to be delaying their plans, while local businesses hesitate to reinvest until a government is established.

“There will still be a vacuum period until the government is formed,” stated Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Assn. Continued …

Thailand welcomes 11.8 million tourists this year, earns 494 baht in revenue

Since the start of the year, Thailand has welcomed close to 12 million foreign tourists, statistics released by the Tourism and Sports Ministry show.

This number is in line with expectations, the ministry’s permanent secretary’s office said, adding that the number of arrivals should cross the 12-million mark in the next week. Continued …

Chiang Mai sweats reputation after Chinese TikToker’s thong videos

A Chinese woman who stripped down to her thong aboard a Chiang Mai songthaew for TikTok has prompted the obligatory pearl-clutching in the Rose of the North.

In clips posted over several days, Chinese internet idol Huanxi59 struck provocative poses as she removed her clothes, sparking concerns she had tarnished the city’s reputation. In the first clip, watched more than a million times since it was posted Friday, she shows off a tiny thong as the songthaew drives around during sunset. Continued …

Unleashing Thailand’s Soft Power Potential

Immediately after Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban, a member of the Korean-pop girl group Blackpink, in an interview casually mentioned her favorite meatball vendors at her hometown train station in Thailand’s Buriram province, sales of the local delicacies spiked by a staggering 1,000 percent.

Lisa’s first solo music video album, in which she donned a dazzling traditional Thai outfit, garnered an astonishing 10 million views on YouTube within just two hours. Now that’s soft power! Lisa’s phenomenal popularity makes her one of Thailand’s prime soft power exports. Continued …

Unfinished 29-million-baht tourist center in Satun languishes after six years

A tourist service center worth 29 million baht in Khuan Don, Satun province, remains incomplete after six years, despite pledges to expedite construction. The contractor for the project is the younger brother of the local governor.

On Facebook, the watchdog page “Operation Dog Guarding House” exposed the construction of a tourist service center located in Khuan Don, Satun province. The project, with a budget of 29,798,000 baht (US$ 855,121), was approved in 2016. The contract was awarded to Giat Jaroenchai Karnchang Co., a construction company owned by the younger brother of Samrit Siangprasit, the governor of Satun. The center was initially scheduled to be completed by Dec. 22, 2017, but each year since the deadline passed, the project has faced significant delays and unfinished work. Continued …

Thai Vietjet tempts with Zero THB fares

Thai Vietjet has introduced its “Mid Year Mega Sale”, which presents an opportunity to tap zero THB fares (excluding taxes and fees) for travel on the airline’s international network.

The promotional fares are available for booking June 20-30, 2023, with the travel period running from July 1 to Dec. 31, 2023 (excludes public holidays, with terms and conditions) at www.vietjetair.com. Continued …

10 best Thailand beaches

Thailand has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, thanks to its sprawling capital, vibrant cities and over one thousand islands awaiting those who visit.

With the country on course to welcome over 30 million tourists this year, it’s clear that it has maintained its appeal as Southeast Asia’s top holiday destination for everyone from gap-year backpackers to honeymooning couples – plus travelers of all stripes who are keen to catch some guaranteed sunshine and average temperatures of 27C, even in winter. Continued …

Sweltering Heat, Power Cuts In India Overwhelm Hospitals, Death Toll at 170

A scorching heat wave in two of India’s most populous states has overwhelmed hospitals, filled a morgue to capacity and disrupted power, forcing staff to use books to cool patients, as officials investigate a death toll that has reached nearly 170. Continued …

Titanic tourist sub still missing, as rescuers race the clock

Rescuers were scouring thousands of square miles in the remote North Atlantic for a third day on Tuesday, racing against time to find a missing submersible after it disappeared while taking wealthy tourists to see the wreckage of the Titanic in deep waters off Canada’s coast. Continued …

Ocean warming depleting fish, reducing size: Malaysian study

Ocean warming is not only depleting fish stocks in the ocean, it is also resulting in smaller fish sizes and even displacement of certain species, a local study has revealed. Continued …

Sudan war uproots 2.5 million, UN says, as bodies line Darfur streets

Bodies have lined the streets in Sudan’s western Darfur region as the UN said Tuesday that more than two months of fighting have forced over 2.5 million people from their homes. Continued …

Iceland suspends whale hunt

Iceland’s government said on Tuesday it was suspending this year’s whale hunt until the end of August due to animal welfare concerns, likely bringing the controversial practice to a historic end. Continued …

Massive marlin disqualified from N.C. fishing tournament, costing crew $3.5M title

A 619-pound blue marlin was disqualified from a fishing tournament in North Carolina over the weekend because of apparent bite marks on its flesh, depriving anglers of more than $3.5 million in prize money. 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, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-June 20

June 20, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Blue & Yellow Book Exchange has reopened/
Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit/
All 500 MPs-Designate Finally Ratified/
Phra Prang Wat Arun tilting, to be surveyed every 3 months/
Economy: Foreign firms bring THB45 billion to Thailand, down 18% y-o-y/Six in 10 Asian consumers express preference for hybrid Evs/MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023: Discover Latest Lifestyle Products/
Tourism: TAT expecting 5 million visitors from China this year/
Thailand Experience: Buffalo soldiers battle for supremacy in Chonburi/
International: Tourist sub exploring Titanic wreckage missing/Blinken and Xi pledge to stabilize deteriorated US-China ties/Spending patterns of super rich show Asia is most expensive region/Himalayan glaciers melting 65 percent faster than previous decade/
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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Blue & Yellow Book Exchange has reopened

With over 10,000 books in various European languages, Hua Hin’s Blue & Yellow Book Exchange has reopened. The store is located at 114/23 Petchkasem Road, near the main traffic lights, opposite Krungsri Bank. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm.

Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit

Hua Hin’s renowned durian cultivation hub, Pa La U, is currently hosting the highly anticipated Pa La U durian and fruit festival.

This Ban Pa La-U Fruit and Good Products Expo, which is now in its 10th year, aims to celebrate the delectable fruit and showcases a wide range of local agricultural products. Continued …

All 500 MPs-Designate Finally Ratified

All 500 MPs-designate were ratified yesterday by the Election Commission, capping a five-week period of the nationwide electoral process.

Election Commission Secretary-general Sawaeng Boonmee announced ratification of all 400 MPs-designate running in constituency-based mode and all 100 MPs-designate vying in party-listed mode, after investigation had been earlier conducted into allegations of vote-buying and other breaches to the election law involving a total of 71 winning contestants vying in the former mode. Continued …

Phra Prang Wat Arun tilting, to be surveyed every 3 months

Thailand’s Fine Arts Department plans to survey Phra Prang Wat Arun, one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks on the Chao Phraya River, every three months after it was discovered through scanning that the principal prang, a tall tower-like spire, has started to lean.

The assistant abbot and secretary of the temple, also known as the Temple of Dawn, said yesterday that the slight reclining of the principal prang has caused four secondary prangs, located at its four corners, and four mondops, a square or cruciform building with a pointed roof, to lean slightly toward the main prang. Continued …

Foreign firms bring THB45 billion to Thailand, down 18% y-o-y

The number of foreign companies setting up operations in Thailand in the first five months of 2023 grew 16% year-on-year but investment dropped 18%, according to the Commerce Ministry on Tuesday.

Some 274 foreign investors were granted permission under the Foreign Business Act to set up in Thailand from January to May, said the ministry’s Department of Business Development (DBD) Director-general Thosapone Dansuputra. They invested a total of 45.39 billion baht and created 2,999 jobs. Continued …

Six in 10 Asian consumers express preference for hybrid EVs

Sixty percent of Asia Pacific consumers will opt for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in the near future, according to a study released on Monday.

The “Automotive Ecosystem Vision Study” found rising demand for HEVs, with 53% of global consumers revealing a stronger preference to purchase hybrids, rising to 60% in Asia. Continued …

MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023: Discover Latest Lifestyle Products

“MEGA SHOW Bangkok 2023”, organized by Hong Kong-based Comasia Limited and co-organized by Worldex G.E.C Co., will be held from July 19 to 21 at Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC).

The three-day event will bring together 500 booths, showcasing the latest lifestyle products and designs from Asia, including gifts and premiums, houseware and kitchen, stationery, travel and sporting goods, lifestyle products, smart green home zone, outdoor decoration and furniture, etc. Continued …

TAT expecting 5 million visitors from China this year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is not concerned about China’s real estate slump as the agency remains confident about securing 5 million visitors from the country this year.

TAT Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn said most Chinese tourists are still keen to travel after saving money to travel abroad during the pandemic. Continued …

Buffalo soldiers battle for supremacy in Chonburi

Chonburi kicked off the rice-planting season on Sunday with a raucous tradition that dates back at least two centuries – buffalo racing. The races were organized to strengthen relationships between villagers, while also educating youngsters about the significance of this local tradition. Buffalos can hit speeds of up to 56 kilometres per hour as they thunder across muddy fields with jockeys either on their backs or dragged behind on flat sleighs. Most farms use mechanical equipment to plough fields these days, but the buffalo or “kwai” is still prized for its traditional place at the heart of Thai agriculture and rural life. (The Nation)

Tourist sub exploring Titanic wreckage missing

Search and rescue teams continue the relentless hunt across the vast North Atlantic Ocean to locate the Titan submarine, which mysteriously vanished on Sunday while en route to explore the wreckage of the legendary Titanic. Continued …

Blinken and Xi pledge to stabilize deteriorated US-China ties

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Monday with Chinese President Xi Jinping and said they agreed to “stabilize” badly deteriorated U.S.-China ties, but America’s top diplomat left Beijing with his biggest ask rebuffed: better communications between their militaries. Continued …

Spending patterns of super rich show Asia is most expensive region

Asia remains the most costly region in the world to live in, with Singapore taking the number one spot, followed by Shanghai and Hong Kong, according to Julius Baer’s latest Global Wealth and Lifestyle report. Continued …

Himalayan glaciers melting 65 percent faster than previous decade

Himalayan glaciers providing critical water to nearly two billion people are melting faster than ever before due to climate change, exposing communities to unpredictable and costly disasters, scientists warned today. 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

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

Monday’s News-June 19

June 19, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

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 …

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

hua hin, phuket, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s News-June 17

June 17, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Price controls get one-year extension/
Thai election: Jumping the gun aren’t we?/
Entire column of Myanmar military flees to Thailand following attack/
Japanese man Arrested in Sa Kaeo for Overstaying Visa by 547 Days/
Sales of electric vehicles surge 474% in first five months of the year/
Thailand may need ‘bigger boat’ as China’s appetite for fruit increases/
Thailand-Europe free trade negotiations continue in Oslo/
Phuket struggles to attract tourists in 2023 low season/
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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Price controls get one-year extension

The Ministry of Commerce has extended price controls on 51 products and services for another year. The extension will expire on June 30, 2024.

The list of 51 items — 46 products and five services — will be forwarded for cabinet approval, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said on Friday after chairing a meeting of the Central Committee on the Prices of Goods and Services. Continued …

Thai election: Jumping the gun aren’t we?

The fate of the Move Forward Party (MFP) is hanging by a thread despite its best efforts to overlook the lurking dangers that could have seismic consequences in politics. Continued …

Entire column of Myanmar military flees to Thailand following attack

According to the announcement made by the Special Operation Force (SOF), the Military Council column responsible for transporting food and ammunition to the Kwi Lon Taing base in Kyainseikgyi Township in Myanmar, specifically within the 6th Brigade area of the Karen National Union (KNU), was intercepted, and the entire column fled to Thailand.

The Military Council column, composed of approximately 50 troops, fell into an ambush by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and SOF. During the attack, the Military Council troops suffered casualties, and the soldiers were forced to retreat, carrying the bodies of their fallen comrades, toward the border with Thailand, according to an SOF member. Continued …

Japanese man Arrested in Sa Kaeo for Overstaying Visa by 547 Days

Yesterday, the police of Sa Kaeo province detained a Japanese man for overstaying his visa by 547 days. According to reports, Police Col. Rung Thongmon, chief of Sa Kaeo Provincial Police, led the arrest operation.

The arrested man, 60-year-old Noboru Kobayashi, a Japanese national, was apprehended in the vicinity of Muang Kaeo market, Sa Kaeo subdistrict, Muang Sa Kaeo district, Sa Kaeo province. Continued …

Sales of electric vehicles surge 474% in first five months of the year

More than 32,000 electric vehicles (EVs) were registered with the Ministry of Transport in the first five months of this year, compared to fewer than 2,000 in all 2021 and about 10,000 in all last year.

The surge followed an EV tax break that took effect last November to increase sales of EVs, data from the ministry shows. The 80% tax break will continue until Nov. 10, 2025. Continued …

Thailand may need ‘bigger boat’ as China’s appetite for fruit increases

The latest chapter of Thai fruits’ success story in China is unfolding in the mega-port city of Guangzhou – and it’s a blockbuster.

Orders at the ongoing Thai Fruits Golden Months and Thai Durian Festival now total 20 million baht, up 260% from the same period in 2022, said the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), which is organizing the events. Continued …

Thailand-Europe free trade negotiations continue in Oslo

Thailand aims to conclude free-trade agreement (FTA) talks with the European Free Trade Assn. (EFTA) by the first quarter of next year, according to the trade negotiations chief.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Trade Negotiations, said Thai representatives are attending the fifth round of negotiations for the Thai-EFTA FTA in Oslo, Norway, which started on Tuesday. The talks continued through yesterday. Continued …

Phuket struggles to attract tourists in 2023 low season

The Phuket Tourist Assn. is putting together proposals to the new government aiming to revitalize the island’s tourism economy and restore the impressive 400 billion baht in income it reached back in pre-Covid 2019.

PTA President Thaneth Tantipiriyakij emphasized the importance of tourism as one of the island’s key economic drivers, alongside exports. 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

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Thursday’s news-June 15

June 15, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News 3 Comments

Pranburi Dam water level at 14%, farming use suspended/
Hua Hin’s new train station designed to blend functionality, accessibility, and aesthetics/
Council urges effort to woo foreign retirees/
Internet banking option on SCB comes to an end/
Govt told to stop monkeying around as coconut-boycott campaign stings/
Myanmar conflict surge: Over 3,300 refugees seek shelter in Thailand/
Economy: Foreign investors said waiting for new govt to shift more production/
Tourism: Thailand taps wellness attractions, MICE to revive tourism sector/Foreign Ministry denies capping visas for Chinese tourists, says entry easy/Tourism numbers in Chiang Mai solid and on the rise/Chiang Mai serving up halal food festival to entice Mideast tourists/
Thailand Experience: The grandeur of Sukhothai/The 5 best activities in Central Thailand/Thai community gathers to pay respects to turtle for good fortune/Ubon Ratchathani: A city rich in Thai history/
International: Magnitude 6.5 quake strikes Philippines/AI will leave 800,000 Hongkongers out of work/Australia blocks new Russian embassy near parliament/
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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Pranburi Dam water level at 14%, farming use suspended

Despite water levels in Pranburi being critically low, officials are confident there is enough water to supply Hua Hin until the end of the year.

Officials at the Pranburi Dam have raised concerns as the water level in the reservoir has reached a critical point of just 14%. The situation has even resulted in authorities ordering the suspension of water supply for agricultural purposes in Pranburi and Hua Hin districts. Continued …

Hua Hin’s new train station designed to blend functionality, accessibility, aesthetics

If you have spent any amount of time in Hua Hin during the last four years, you can’t fail to have seen the construction of the new train station.

Once it opens, the new Hua Hin train station, the platform of which is 14 metres above ground level, will be the first elevated train station in Thailand to include a walkway under the station. Continued …

Council urges effort to woo foreign retirees

The Thailand Tourism Council (TCT) has appealed to the newly instated government to position the nation as a go-to for retirees, simultaneously advocating for the removal of regulatory obstacles linked to the development of supply.

On Wednesday, the TCT and delegates from the Thai Sang Thai Party gathered to discuss their perspectives on tourism growth. This meeting came after the party had previously engaged in dialogues with tourism groups in Phuket, Phangnga, and Krabi the day before. Continued …

Internet banking option on SCB comes to an end

Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) is to stop providing its internet banking service “SCB EASY NET” from next month, and is urging customers to switch to the mobile application “SCB EASY App” instead due to enhanced security.

The bank announced on Wednesday via its Facebook SCB Thailand that from 9pm on July 14, the internet banking service SCB EASY NET will no longer be usable. It asked customers to switch to smartphone application SCB EASY App, which is more “modern and secure”. Continued …

Govt told to stop monkeying around as coconut-boycott campaign stings

The government is being urged to hire lobbyists in the United States and the European Union to counteract a campaign by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) calling on consumers in both markets to boycott Thai-produced coconut milk.

PETA says in its campaign that monkeys are being used to harvest coconuts on Thai plantations, and that they are being severely mistreated. Continued …

Myanmar conflict surge: Over 3,300 refugees seek shelter in Thailand

The conflict in Myanmar‘s Kayah State has led to a surge of refugees seeking shelter in Thailand. Provincial Gov. Chettha Mosikkharat confirmed that Thai authorities have rescued a total of 3,342 refugees who fled the border war.

The fighting in Kayah State involves the Karenni Army (KA), backed by the People’s Defense Forces (PDFs) and the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF), and began with an attack on Mae Jae police station and three military bases. Continued …

Foreign investors said waiting for new govt to shift more production

Foreign investors want to see the next government take office quickly and many will move their manufacturing bases to Thailand after this happens, Pheu Thai Party prime minister candidate Srettha Thavisin said on Wednesday.

Speaking at a press conference at the Pheu Thai head office, Srettha told a press conference at Pheu Thai headquarters that he held a teleconference with 107 foreign investors on Tuesday during which many asked about the uncertainty about the formation of the next coalition government. Continued …

Thailand taps wellness attractions, MICE to revive tourism sector

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Gov. Yuthasak Supasorn has unveiled plans for the sector – which is worth about 3 trillion baht annually or 20% of GDP – that will be presented to the incoming government.

To stimulate and attract more international tourists, TAT is accelerating promotional activities and organizing events while embracing sustainable trends. This includes elevating Thailand as a global hub for “wellness tourism”, an emerging trend. Continued …

Foreign Ministry denies capping visas for Chinese tourists, says entry easy

The Foreign Ministry has denied that Thailand’s entry procedure for Chinese nationals is excessively convoluted, insisting that a simplified visa process is already in place.

The government is under fire from tourism operators, who say complicated visa rules are deterring Chinese nationals from visiting Thailand and could cost the economy 250 billion baht in lost revenue. On Saturday, tourism representatives put their case to the Thai Sang Thai Party, complaining that visa rules imposed to deter Chinese criminals were having the same effect on legitimate tourists from China. Continued …

Tourism numbers in Chiang Mai solid and on the rise

Chiang Mai’s tourism industry is continuing to recover, with the average occupation rate of hotels in the province reaching 75% in the first five months of this year, Paisan Sukcharoen, president of Thai Hotels Assn. (Upper Northern Chapter), said.

Speaking at the general meeting of the association’s members, Paisan said that hotels in the northern province recorded a 70% occupation rate from January to March, before the number plummeted to less than 30% in April as Chiang Mai, like other northern provinces, battled smog and high PM 2.5 levels. Continued …

Chiang Mai serving up halal food festival to entice Mideast tourists

Chiang Mai will hold its first halal food festival next month to woo Muslim tourists from the Middle East.

The festival will serve up halal specialities from all four regions of the country under the theme “Unseen Chiang Mai”, provincial Gov. Nirat Pongsitthavorn explained. Continued …

The grandeur of Sukhothai

While the majority of visitors arriving in Sukhothai head straight to Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai historical parks, which were added to the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1999, this lower northern town itself provides a variety of local delights for those wanting to experience slow life, local wisdom and the splendor of nature.

Despite its success in the tourism industry, this ancient town has managed to maintain its wonderful cultural heritage by crafting high-quality porcelain, elaborate silverware and handwoven textiles using age-old techniques passed down through the generations. Continued …

The 5 best activities in Central Thailand

Calling all adventurous souls, culture vultures, and travel lovers! Are you ready for the new chapters through Thailand’s central region? Picture this: vibrant cities pulsating with life, ancient temples whispering tales from the past, and natural landscapes that will take your breath away.

And if you wonder, what’s the best thing to do in central Thailand? Well, it’s a tough one. After all, there are so many things you can do. Continued …

Thai community gathers to pay respects to turtle for good fortune

Residents of Sai Kaew community in Nakhon Ratchasima province gathered to pay their respects and seek good fortune from a beautifully kept turtle, “Kai Toon”. The turtle is owned by Sawang Saungsombat, a 62-year-old local.

Sawang explained that her son bought the turtle for her to care for as a pet about a year ago. As turtles are considered auspicious, she decided to keep it for good luck. Previously, Sawang had dreamed of the turtle bringing her fortune, which led her to use her house number in a lottery, ultimately winning. Upon learning about her luck, other villagers rushed to see the turtle. Continued …

Ubon Ratchathani: A city rich in Thai history

Ubon Ratchathani is a province and city located in the northeastern region of Thailand, also known as Isaan. It is situated on the banks of the Mun River, near the border with Laos. Ubon Ratchathani is the largest province in Isaan and serves as a major cultural and economic hub in the region.

The city of Ubon Ratchathani has a rich history dating back to the Dvaravati period (6th to 11th centuries) and has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Khmer Empire and the Lao Kingdom of Lan Xang. Today, it blends both Thai and Lao cultures, making it a unique and vibrant destination. Continued …

Magnitude 6.5 quake strikes Philippines

An earthquake of magnitude 6.5 struck Mindoro island in the northern Philippines today, the German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) said. The tremors were felt in the capital Manila and in nearby provinces. Continued …

AI will leave 800,000 Hongkongers out of work

About a quarter of Hong Kong’s workforce will find themselves unemployed or having to change career in the next five years as artificial intelligence (AI) takes over their jobs, according to a study by recruitment firm Venturenix. Continued …

Australia blocks new Russian embassy near parliament

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said today the government would block the construction of a new Russian embassy near the country’s parliament, citing threats to national security. 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.

UPDATED: 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