Tag Archives: thailand election

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Saturday’s news-May 20

  • Downpours expected to herald arrival of rainy season on Monday/
  • Thap Sakae EV charging station part of 5,000km SE Asian EV highway/
  • The election is over, a new round of ‘war’ begins/
  • Pita Limjaroenrat: Meet Thailand’s (probable) next leader/
  • He promised change in Thailand. But will he be allowed to lead?/
  • Phitsanulok locals stock up on eggs amid rising price and tight supplies/
  • EGAT plans hybrid hydro-floating solar project in Khon Kaen/
  • Thailand sending essential supplies to cyclone-hit Myanmar/
  • C.P. Group collaborating with French companies on food, energy and transportation/
  • Tourism: Immigration Bureau Intensifies Crackdown on Overstaying Foreigners/Almost 10 Million Foreign Tourists So Far This Year/
  • Thailand Experience: 7 Most Scenic Bangkok Train Trips To Take At Least Once/Koh Samui Is an Idyllic Thailand Getaway/Isaan booming as fuse lit for annual Rocket Festival/
  • International: Queen’s funeral costs taxpayers £162M amid cost-of-living crisis/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Downpours expected to herald arrival of rainy season on Monday

Heavy rains are forecast for most parts of the country when the wet season officially begins on Monday, the Meteorological Department announced on Friday.

Downpours are expected to be frequent in most regions of the country as Thailand’s summer season ends and the wet season begins, according to weather forecasts. Continued …

Thap Sakae EV charging station part of 5,000km SE Asian EV highway

Singapore-based charging provider for electric vehicles (EVs) Charge+ has announced a strategic partnership with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to boost the country’s EV ecosystem as it strives to become a zero-carbon emission nation by 2050.

EGAT will provide Charge+ with a site for a direct current (DC) charging station in Thap Sakae, about 320 kilometers south of Bangkok, according to a statement from Charge+. Continued …

The election is over, a new round of ‘war’ begins

After the polls have closed, the victories of two major opposition parties mark a new chapter in Thai politics, as the country enters the phase of forming a new government. However, the Thai political scene is abuzz with several pressing questions:

Will the Forward Party manage to establish the government successfully? Will Pita Limcharoenrat become the prime minister? Could the Forward Party face dissolution or will Pita face a dismissal? Continued …

Pita Limjaroenrat: Meet Thailand’s (probable) next leader

Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat is on the road to becoming Thailand’s next prime minister after his three-year-old progressive party’s shock victory in last Sunday’s general election.

The election results, which are awaiting endorsement by the Election Commission, show Move Forward in first after winning 152 of the 500 MP seats in the House of Representatives. Continued …

He promised change in Thailand. But will he be allowed to lead?

When Pita Limjaroenrat was a student at Harvard in 2008, he shadowed his American classmates who were campaigning at the time for Barack Obama. The experience gave him a window into electoral politics, from phone banks and polling data to knocking on doors and putting campaign flags on front lawns.

Fifteen years later, Pita said he used what he learned in Massachusetts to help his recent campaign in Thailand, where he stunned the country’s political establishment by leading his progressive Move Forward Party to a momentous victory. Continued …

NOTICE: Avatar Garden has temporarily closed for renovations. We will reopen about July 1. Stay tuned!

Phitsanulok locals stock up on eggs amid rising price and tight supplies

Consumers in Phitsanulok are bristling over a 0.2 baht per piece rise in the price of chicken eggs, or six baht per tray of 30 eggs. The price hike was announced by Thailand’s Egg Farmer Cooperative Network earlier this week.

The network on Monday told its members to raise the price of assorted eggs at farms from 3.6 baht to 3.8 baht per egg, the highest price yet this year. Continued …

58.5MW Floating PV Plant with Sungrow PV and Floating Solutions

EGAT plans hybrid hydro-floating solar project in Khon Kaen

The EGAT (Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand)–MPD Consortium has signed a construction contract for a hybrid hydro-floating solar project at Ubol Ratana Dam in Khon Kaen Province, Thailand.

The project will ensure renewable energy stability for sustainability, driving the country to achieve carbon neutrality, according to a press release. Continued …

Thailand sending essential supplies to cyclone-hit Myanmar

Thailand will be sending a plane carrying essential supplies to Myanmar, after the neighboring country was hit by powerful cyclone “Mocha”, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

The spokesperson for Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kanchana Patarachoke, said that the Thai government had expressed its concerns to Myanmar, where Cyclone Mocha has killed 145 people and left 800,000 people in need of food aid, according to reports as of Friday evening. Continued …

C.P. Group collaborating with French companies on food, energy, transportation

Charoen Pokphand Group Co. (C.P. Group) announced that the group will collaborate with leading French corporations on projects that span the agribusiness, renewable energy, and transportation sectors.

The projects and the broader partnership will strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation, introduce advanced technologies and innovation into Thailand, and create employment opportunities for the local economy in Thailand and France. Continued …

Immigration Bureau Intensifies Crackdown on Overstaying Foreigners

In their most recent effort to crack down on overstaying foreigners, the Thai Immigration Bureau (IB) delivered a robust display of enforcement.

Yesterday, a briefing was held to share the results of the dureau’s operations. In attendance were various high-ranking officials, including the commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, his deputies, and other members of the force. Continued …

Almost 10 Million Foreign Tourists So Far This Year

The Thai tourism industry is soaring, as seen by altogether 9.47 million foreign tourists having come here from the beginning of the year until May 15, with the biggest markets being east and south Asia, plus ASEAN countries.

Trisulee Trisoranakul, deputy spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, also said that total tourist expenditure during this period reached 391 billion baht. Continued …

Kanchanaburi railway bridge

7 Most Scenic Bangkok Train Trips To Take At Least Once

Flying is one way to get to different cities in Thailand. But if you’re after an epic journey that lets you wind through dramatic valleys, forests, and mountains, then you should hit the rails.

From short jaunts to cross-country trips, here are seven scenic trains in Bangkok for you to indulge in slow travel. We’ve even provided helpful train travel tips because you’ll most likely want to book a trip after seeing what’s in store. Continued …

Koh Samui Is an Idyllic Thailand Getaway

Phuket has its nightlife and Pha Ngan has its full-moon parties, while Krabi has the coastline and Koh Tao has dominion over Thailand’s scuba scene. Samui stands apart by offering a slice of it all, with strings of serene, white sandy beaches and blissful indulgence from a collection of the country’s swankiest resorts, combined with no shortage of amusement or adventure.

Thailand is picking up where it left off after a lengthy pandemic shutdown to international tourism, returning as one of the most favored of far-flung destinations. Koh Samui, part of the Surat Thani province, is an island found in the Gulf of Thailand about halfway down the country’s thin central land strip. It caters to tourists, and as such, rather than mourning the sense of calm their absence provided, it’s celebrating their return in grand style, eager to once again offer its signature, friendly hospitality. Continued …

Isaan booming as fuse lit for annual Rocket Festival

Isaan skies are streaked with gray smoke trails from May to July every year, as locals launch Bang Fai or bamboo missiles to prod the rain god awake. Celebrated in Thailand’s northeast and Laos, the Bun Bang Fai rocket festival blasts off to summon clouds at the start of the rainy season around the end of May.

“Bun” means merit while “bang” refers to the giant bamboo bodies of the missiles. “Fai” (fire) is what happens when fuses are lit and the sparks ignite the gunpowder packed inside. Continued …

Queen’s funeral costs taxpayers £162M amid cost-of-living crisis

The UK government has disclosed that the state funeral and related events for Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away last September, cost taxpayers almost £162 million (US$201 million). This is the first public estimate of the expenses associated with the funeral of Britain’s longest-serving monarch. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news-May 19

  • Here we go again: Thai PM Candidate Faces Disqualification Bid/
  • More senators back Pita’s bid to be prime minister/
  • Move Forward musters 8-party bloc/
  • Business leaders want outdated laws scrapped, concerned over wage hikes/
  • Projected slowdown in global economic growth could hurt Thai exports/
  • Thailand aims for 80% global trade coverage with new FTAs by 2027/
  • Thailand’s Scamdemic: how Covid-19 supercharged online crime/
  • Thai snooker legend James Wattana loses 3.2 million baht to call center gang/
  • Farmers Guarding Durian Orchards Day And Night After Big Price Hike/
  • Thailand officially anointed as host of 2025 SEA Games/
  • Tourism: Number of Chinese tourists continuing to increase/British family offers reward to ‘detain’ teenager missing in Pattaya/
  • Thailand Experience: Hua Hin Offers Stunning Beaches, Waterfront Living and a ‘Hot’ Golf Game/Nakhon Ratchasima is world’s 4th city to be declared “Triple Crown” by UNESCO/
  • International: High stakes for Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian troops/New Covid-19 variant spreading swiftly/Colombian president says missing children in jungle still missing/Half world’s largest lakes and reservoirs drying up/The Noah’s Ark for plants beneath the English countryside/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Here we go again: Thai PM Candidate Faces Disqualification Bid

Thailand’s Election Commission is weighing a last-minute legal challenge to the pro-democracy front-runner in the country’s race for prime minister, in a case that could derail the political career of one of the military-backed government’s fiercest critics.

The complaint against Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat bears strong echoes of the case that brought down another rising star of Thailand’s gaining pro-democracy movement four years ago and set the stage for a wave of anti-government protests. Continued … 

More senators back Pita’s bid to be prime minister

A growing number of senators are rallying behind Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid for prime minister, citing the people’s mandate shown in Sunday’s election and the MFP’s increased chance of forming a government.

Sen. Sathit Limpongpan has pledged support for a government coalition that manages to secure more than 250 House seats, or half of all the seats at stake. He joins at least 14 other senators reportedly gearing to back Pita’s bid to become prime minister. Continued …

Move Forward musters 8-party bloc

The Move Forward Party (MFP) has announced the formation of an eight-party alliance and the setting up of working groups to lobby senators for support and thrash out policy platforms, with a memorandum of understanding to be disclosed on Monday.

With the inclusion of the Pheu Thai Ruam Palang and Palang Sangkhom Mai parties, the MFP-led bloc has pulled in 313 House seats and requires 63 more votes to support MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid to become prime minister. Continued …

Business leaders want outdated laws scrapped, concerned over wage hikes

Industry leaders are looking forward to the removal of outdated laws to make it easier for them to do business, as promised by the Move Forward Party during its election campaign, but they are worried that implementation of wage hikes would hit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) hard.

The business leaders said they welcomed the formation of a coalition government led by election winner Move Forward Party, and hoped the next administration would take office soon to start driving Thailand’s economy to stability and sustainability. Continued … 

Projected slowdown in global economic growth could hurt Thai exports

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDB) expects the global economy to grow 2.7% this year, with global trade volume falling to 2.1% due to low growth among key trading partners.

Thai export growth could therefore be negative this year, making it imperative that the new government seeks new export markets and pursues trade negotiations to support Thai exports. Continued …

Thailand aims for 80% global trade coverage with new FTAs by 2027

Thailand is aiming to expand its free trade agreements (FTAs) to cover 80% of its global trade with over 50 countries by 2027, according to Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Trade Negotiations Department.

The department is exploring the feasibility of establishing new FTAs with various countries and trade blocs, including Israel, Bhutan, South Korea, the Pacific Alliance, the Southern African Customs Union, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The private sector has also expressed interest in forming an FTA between Thailand and the Mercosur trade bloc in South America, which comprises Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Continued …

Thailand’s Scamdemic: how Covid-19 supercharged online crime

Cyberscamming has become a trillion-dollar industry, with the numbers of both scammers and victims soaring over the past three years.

Many young Thais have been enticed by online job advertisements promising well-paid work in Cambodia and Myanmar. but once they cross the border into these “special economic zones” (SEZs), many wind up in the hands of Chinese gangs who confiscate their passports. They’ve been scammed, and now – on pain of death or torture – they’re scammers themselves. Continued …

Thai snooker legend James Wattana loses 3.2 million baht to call center gang

Thai snooker star James Wattana, who is better known locally as “Tong Sitchoi”, has fallen victim to a call center scam gang who allegedly cheated him out of about 3.2 million baht.

James, who has just won a gold medal in the doubles snooker competition at the SEA Games in Cambodia, said he received a phone call at about 11pm on Tuesday, informing about an allegation that he had been involved in illicit drug trafficking and money laundering and demanding that he wire them money to settle the case. Continued …

Farmers Guarding Durian Orchards Day And Night After Big Price Hike

Durian farmers in Tak province just across the border from Myanmar are guarding their orchards day and night to keep thieves at bay after a big price rise this year.

Chub Buasom, or Uncle Chub, a farmer in Ruam Thai Phatthana subdistrict, Phop Phra district, said previously durians were sold at 120 baht a kilogram at the orchards but the price has soared to 180 a kilogram this year. This is due to low output, with orchards affected by frequent temperature fluctuation, from hot to cold then hot again. Continued …

Thailand officially anointed as host of 2025 SEA Games

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt was in Phnom Penh on Wednesday where he was presented with the flag of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Tea Banh as Thailand prepares to host the next Games in 2025.

The 33rd Games are scheduled for Dec. 9-20, 2025, with most of the events being held in Bangkok, while marine competitions will be held in the seaside provinces of Chonburi and Songkhla. Continued …

NOTICE: Avatar Garden has temporarily closed for renovations. We will reopen about July 1. Stay tuned!

Number of Chinese tourists continuing to increase

The number of flights between China and Thailand is continuing to increase but is still significantly lower than pre-Covid, according to Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co. (Aerothai) President Nopasit Chakpitak.

A total of 12,805 flights landed in the country between October 2022 and April 2023, and with this increasing trend predicted to continue, preparations are being made to manage air traffic and ensure smooth operations. Continued …

British family offers reward to ‘detain’ teenager missing in Pattaya

A worried British family is offering a 10,000-baht reward to anyone who can locate and “detain on sight” a runaway 17-year-old believed to be missing in Pattaya.

The family has reason to believe that Ryan White, from Gateshead in England, traveled to Sin City after flying to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport one week ago on Friday, May 12. Continued … 

Hua Hin Offers Stunning Beaches, Waterfront Living and a ‘Hot’ Golf Game

A summer climate year round, jungle scenery and a currency with a more than generous exchange rate make Thailand a prime option for passionate golfers looking for second homes or retirement estates.

Thailand meets the sea along its southern stretch, with its coast bending like a horseshoe around its titular gulf. Hua Hin resides along the beaches of that horseshoe’s western shore — almost directly across from another tourist enclave, Pattaya City on the gulf’s eastern seaboard. Continued …

Nakhon Ratchasima is world’s 4th city to be declared “Triple Crown” by UNESCO

Nakhon Ratchasima, in Thailand’s northeast, has become the world’s fourth place to gain UNESCO’s coveted “Triple Crown”, after the international organization declared the Khorat Geopark a Global Geopark on Wednesday.

The Khorat Geopark covers five districts in the province, including Mueang, Sikhio, Sung Noen, Kham Thale So and Chaloem Phra Kiat. Continued …

High stakes for Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian troops

Ukraine’s highly anticipated counteroffensive will be an important test of its ability to make significant new gains against Russian forces, and of the effectiveness of the massive amount of military assistance provided by Kyiv’s international supporters. Continued …

New Covid-19 variant spreading swiftly

Doctors are warning that a new substrain of Omicron – FU.1 – is spreading worldwide at a 50% faster rate than the Omicron substrain XBB.1.16. The FU.1 substrain (also known as XBB.1.16.1.1) has infected 122 people worldwide, including one Thaiy. Continued …

Colombian president says missing children in jungle still missing

The fate of four children who were missing after a plane crash in southern Colombia was unclear on Thursday after President Gustavo Petro deleted a Tweet saying they had been found alive, adding in a new message that reports of their discovery was unconfirmed and the search still ongoing. Continued …

Half world’s largest lakes and reservoirs drying up

More than half of the world’s largest lakes and reservoirs are dwindling and placing humanity’s future water security at risk, with climate change and unsustainable consumption the main culprits, a study said yesterday. Continued …

The Noah’s Ark for plants beneath the English countryside

Inside bomb-proof frozen vaults underneath the English countryside hides a treasure trove of 40,000 species of wild plant seeds from around the world, many of which are in danger of disappearing. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The 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, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-May 17

  • Is this election a new dawn for Thailand?/
  • What Thailand’s Election Outcome May Mean for Military, Monarchy/
  • Liberal govt led by Move Forward may be a pipe dream/
  • Analysts upbeat on Thai growth outlook/
  • Thailand’s Election Results May Reverse Cannabis Policy/
  • WHO: Artificial sweeteners do not help in weight loss/
    Royal Ploughing Ceremony kicks off rice-growing season/
  • Fruit prices hike on Chinese demand/
  • Polish killer asked taxi driver to help cut up Ukrainian woman’s body/
  • Chinese Businessman Found Dead With Over 20 Knife Wounds at Trang Resort/
  • First raise in a decade sought for Thailand’s defenders of the wild/
  • Tourism: Tourism operators express hope post-election/Thai tourism operators target more arrivals from India/Police help 9 foreign tourists stranded at the Thai-Cambodian border/American Tourist Rescued from Pattaya Sewer, Trapped For Over Seven Hours/Lost luggage soars with air travel revival/
  • International: Council of Europe gathers to discuss future prosecution of Russian leaders/Cyclone toll in Myanmar’s Rakhine state at least 41/UN: Time running out in war on plastic pollution/Pacific islanders: Rich countries are not doing enough to control climate change/Hidden lives of terminal dwellers in South Korea/Vietnam pledges no new coal plants after 2030/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Is this election a new dawn for Thailand?

On May 15, Thailand woke up to a new dawn. Nine years after Prayut Chan-ocha conducted a coup d’etat to oust Yingluck Shinawatra’s government, the electoral landslide by the opposition parties in the latest general election appears to put Thailand back on a path to democracy. After a decade of hopelessness, Thailand welcomes back the long lost sense of hope, aspiration and optimism.

Spearheading this change is undoubtedly Move Forward. The party’s growing popularity is not a surprise. Strong showings in the censure debates has clearly demonstrated the party’s competence and commitment to human rights and democratic values. However, the party shocked everyone (and probably themselves) by winning the entire general election, beating the old serial champion-like Pheu Thai Party in the process. Continued …

What Thailand’s Election Outcome May Mean for Military, Monarchy

Pro-democracy groups in Thailand have made a stunning political comeback after nine years of rule by the conservative military-backed bloc helmed by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha.

The next leader faces challenges including steering the future of the $506 billion economy that counts China as its largest trading partner, while navigating U.S. and ASEAN relations. Also at stake is the fate of one of Asia’s worst-performing stock markets and the revival of Thailand’s key tourism sector. Continued …

Liberal govt led by Move Forward may be a pipe dream

For many Thais, the proposed new coalition government of parties from the opposition camp represents a “dream team” of liberal democrats. The six-party coalition, led by election-winner Move Forward, would have 310 MPs and an absolute majority in the 500-seat House of Representatives.

However, to make this dream come true, the coalition would need majority support in both houses of Parliament, comprising 500 MPs and 250 senators. Backing from at least 376 parliamentarians is required for the coalition’s PM candidate to get the country’s top job. Continued …

Analysts upbeat on Thai growth outlook

Thailand’s economic growth is expected to accelerate in the final nine months of this year, even as the global economy teeters near a recession, thanks partly to a lift following the May 14 election, analysts say.

First-quarter GDP growth of 2.7% year-on-year beat the consensus forecast of 2.3%, and accelerated from 1.4% growth in the fourth quarter last year, as external demand improved, reflected by exports and a strong recovery of the tourism sector, according to BMI, a unit of Fitch Group. Continued …

Thailand’s Election Results May Reverse Cannabis Policy

Thai voters have delivered a surprising and stunning verdict in favor of an opposition party that advocates for significant institutional reforms in the country. However, the winning parties may reverse the current cannabis policy, which has resulted in an unregulated market and has faced criticism from many parts of society.

Thailand’s reformist opposition and the youth-led Move Forward Party (MFP) emerged victorious in the country’s general elections held on Sunday, May 14. They secured the majority of seats in the House of Representatives, with 152 out of 500 seats, showing a strong rejection of the military-aligned parties within the current government coalition. Continued …

WHO: Artificial sweeteners do not help in weight loss

Artificial sweeteners, used to replace sugar in a vast range of products, do not help in losing weight and can have serious health effects, according to the World Health Organization.

The United Nations’ health agency this week released new guidelines advising against using so-called non-sugar sweeteners, or NSS. Continued …

Royal Ploughing Ceremony kicks off rice-growing season

Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida on Tuesday evening oversaw a ceremony to appoint the Phraya Raekna (Lord of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony) and celestial maidens for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony today.

The ceremony took place at Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) in Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon district. Continued …

Fruit prices hike on Chinese demand

Fruit prices have been consistently rising, driven by increasing demand from the Chinese market, improving transport services and falling shipping costs.

According to Wattanasak Sur-iam, director-general of the Internal Trade Department, the agency has been monitoring prices and found they are increasing, particularly for durian and mangosteen. Continued …

Polish killer asked taxi driver to help cut up Ukrainian woman’s body

A taxi driver revealed that the Polish man arrested under suspicion of murdering and attempting to dismember his Ukrainian girlfriend “Alona” in a Bangkok condo room yesterday asked him to help get rid of her body via Google Translate.

The taxi driver said that he picked up the suspect – Lagoda Filippow Jan Jerzy – on the roadside outside a condo and communicated with him via Google Translate. The Polish tourist told the taxi driver that he wanted to gamble at a casino. The pair drove around but couldn’t find one. Continued …

Chinese Businessman Found Dead With Over 20 Knife Wounds at Trang Resort

A Chinese businessman was found dead with more than 20 stab and slash wounds at a resort in Mueang Trang. The Mueang Trang Police were notified of the incident on Tuesday afternoon at a resort in the Tub Tieng subdistrict.

They and emergency responders arrived at the resort to find the body of a 43-year-old Chinese man (Zhirui Li) inside a bathroom. He was face down wearing only a towel and covered in blood. Continued …

First raise in a decade sought for Thailand’s defenders of the wild

The parks department is seeking a long overdue bump in the salaries of park rangers to kick in Oct. 1.

Attapol Charoenshata, acting chief of national parks, said today that a formal letter was sent to the finance ministry asking for 13,000-plus ranger salaries to be increased from THB9,000 to THB11,000 per month. Though it amounts to over 20%, it would be the first such increase in 10 years. Continued …

Tourism operators express hope post-election

Chiang Mai and Phuket tourism operators hope the new government led by the Move Forward Party (MFP) can solve the PM2.5 dust crisis, work to decentralize power, and allocate budget for regional development and restoring tourism competitiveness.

La-iad Bungsrithong, board adviser for the Thai Hotels Assn., said the election result reaffirms that Chiang Mai desires change. Continued …

Thai tourism operators target more arrivals from India

Thai tourism operators plan to woo more visitors from India, the world’s most populous country with 1.4 billion people. Thai tourism business operators hope to expand the Indian tourist market in the post-Covid-19 era to ensure more balance in market diversity and reduce excessive dependence on the Chinese market.

According to a report by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, before the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, a total of 1,961,069 Indians visited Thailand, generating revenue of over 80 billion baht. Continued …

Police help 9 foreign tourists stranded at the Thai-Cambodian border

The Royal Thai Police helped nine foreign tourists who were stranded near the Cambodian border in Sa Keao province, eastern Thailand, to find a place to rest their heads last night.

The tourists, including six Spanish nationals, one Ukrainian national, and two Indian nationals, were “very impressed” with the work of Sa Keao Tourist Police, soldiers of the 13th Ranger Forces Regiment, and officers at Khlong Luek Police Statio,n and would be advising their friends to travel to Thailand. Continued …

American Tourist Rescued from Pattaya Sewer, Trapped For Over Seven Hours

Pattaya locals and rescuers rescued an unlucky American man who fell and got trapped in a sewer last night. The man said he fell into the sewer around noon and wandered down there for hours.

At around 8pm yesterday, rescuers from the Sawang Boriboon Thamasathan Foundation responded to a report of a tourist being stuck in a sewer on Soi Thep Prasit 8 in the Nongprue subdistrict, Banglamung district, and rushed to help. Continued …

Lost luggage soars with air travel revival

The rate of lost, damaged or delayed luggage nearly doubled last year as air travel rebounded and the sector faced staff shortages following the Covid pandemic, a new study has found.

The report issued on Tuesday by Sita, an IT provider for the air transport industry, said 7.6 bags per thousand passengers were mishandled in 2022, up from 4.35 the previous year. Continued …

Council of Europe gathers to discuss future prosecution of Russian leaders

A year after Russia’s expulsion from the Council of Europe (CoE) due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the leaders of the 46-nation human rights body convened in Iceland to take preliminary steps toward the potential prosecution of Russian leaders. The summit’s main focus was the creation of a “register of damages” to document evidence for use in a special court that Ukraine and several Western allies hope to establish. Continued …

Cyclone toll in Myanmar’s Rakhine state at least 41

The death toll in cyclone-hit Myanmar’s Rakhine state rose to at least 41 on Tuesday, local leaders said. Myanmar’s strife-torn Rakhine State bore the brunt of Sunday’s storm that unleashed winds of up to 210 kilometers per hour (130 miles per hour), ripped roofs off homes and brought a storm surge that inundated the state capital Sittwe. Continued …

UN: Time running out in war on plastic pollution

The world must halve single-use plastics and slash throwaway consumption to stem the tide of environmental pollution, according to a UN report on Tuesday that warns the next few years are critical. Continued …

Pacific islanders: Rich countries are not doing enough to control climate change

Pacific Island leaders are criticizing rich countries for not doing enough to control climate change despite being responsible for much of the problem, and for profiting from loans provided to vulnerable nations to mitigate the effects. Continued …

Hidden lives of terminal dwellers in South Korea

In February 2020, an African man landed at Incheon Airport in South Korea, seeking asylum. He had fled his homeland, where a civil war had killed many of his family members and relatives. The South Korean immigration office, however, refused to accept his application for refugee status, because he was a transfer passenger. His eligibility as a refugee was not even reviewed. Continued …

Vietnam pledges no new coal plants after 2030

Vietnam will not develop new coal power plants after 2030, according to a long-delayed national power plan published Tuesday, although the blueprint drew criticism that the transition to renewables is too slow. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The 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, covid, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-My 16

  • Move Forward Announces Six-Party Coalition/
  • Timeline to the formation of a new government/
  • Thai baht soars as voters back pro-democracy parties/
  • NESDC names economic challenges new government will face/
  • Social media pivotal in Moving Forward Party’s election victory, experts say/
  • Subsidy for household electricity bills can go ahead/
  • Is weight-loss surgery worth it?/
  • Covid-19 cases surge 39% in a week, public urged to take precautions/
  • Thailand’s economy poised to expand 3.7% this year/
  • Thai industrial estates ride the EV boom/
  • Polish National Arrested for Gruesome Murder and Dismemberment of Ukrainian Girlfriend/
  • Cops to arrest abettors of Aem Cyanide/
  • Tourism: This is what tourists to Hua Hin will look like in 2033/Tycoon’s property unit to boost spending on tourism boom/Cruise ship’s arrival in Phuket signals booming tourism uplift/TAT Unveils ‘Amazing Thailand Culinary City’ Project/
  • International: Argentina ramps interest rate to 97% as inflation soars/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Move Forward Announces Six-Party Coalition

Pita Limjaroenrat, leader and prime ministerial candidate of the Move Forward Party (MFP), has announced the formation of a coalition government comprising six parties, with a total of 309 members of Parliament (MPs).

In Sunday’s election, the conservative vote and long-standing patronage politics that have governed the country for a decade were swept away by what is being called the “Orange Wave.” Continued … 

Timeline to the formation of a new government

As Thailand ushers in another landmark moment in the country’s political history on Sunday, There is a timeline of events after the May 14 general election leading up to the formation of the next government.

Section 85 of the Constitution stipulates that the Election Commission must declare the official results of the election within 60 days of election day. If candidates or voters believe the election was unfair, they are allowed to file objections to the EC before or within 30 days of the release of the result. Continued …

Thai baht soars as voters back pro-democracy parties

The Thai baht hit a five-week high after pro-democracy parties came out as the biggest winners in Sunday’s general election after nearly a decade of military-backed rule in Thailand.

The baht rallied 0.9% to 33.70 against the greenback for the first time since April 5 after opposition parties Move Forward Pary (MFP) and Phue Thai won the majority of seats by a mile, paving the way for a coalition to wrangle power away from the military and back into the hands of the population. Continued …

NESDC names economic challenges new government will face

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has named four economic challenges the new Thai government must tackle this year.

Although the political landscape in Thailand has become clearer now the general election is over, there is still uncertainty about the parties that will form the new coalition government. Continued …

Social media pivotal in Moving Forward Party’s election victory, experts say

The 2023 election results have highlighted the significant role social media played in the Moving Forward Party‘s victory, as digital agencies and communication experts emphasize the importance of appealing content and social media engagement.

It has become evident that social media is not just an alternative channel for election campaigns, but a mainstream media channel, reaching 85% of the population, with Thai citizens spending an average of eight hours daily on these platforms, according to Pawat Ruangdejworachai, CEO of creative digital agency Media Intelligence. Continued … 

Subsidy for household electricity bills can go ahead

The Election Commission (EC) has approved the caretaker Cabinet’s proposal to spend 10.46 billion baht on subsidizing household electricity, election commissioner Thitichet Nutchanat said on Monday.

Under the measure, those who use up to 150 units of electricity will see a reduction of 92.04 satang per unit, while those who use 151 to 300 units will get a 67.04 satang per unit reduction (100 satang equals 1 baht). Continued …

Is weight-loss surgery worth it?

A female influencer surprised her followers by posting before and after photos and a video of herself after having a sleeve gastrectomy – a surgical weight-loss procedure. In the video, the influencer said that her previous weight was 86kg and she lost 18kg in three months following surgery.

The post received a lot of attention on the internet, especially from people who are having difficulty losing weight. However, many people opposed the post and commented that the influencer should have also provided details of any side effects that occurred, since sleeve gastrectomy is a major surgery. Continued …

Covid-19 cases surge 39% in a week, public urged to take precautions

The Department of Disease Control issued a public warning yesterday, alerting citizens to the resurgence of Covid-19 and urging them to take necessary precautions to protect themselves.

The director-general, Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, revealed that there were 2,356 Covid-19 inpatients last week, marking a 39% increase from the previous week. Continued …

Thailand’s economy poised to expand 3.7% this year

The Thai economy expanded by 2.7% in the first quarter of this year, nearly doubling from 1.4% in the previous quarter.

If economic conditions remain stable without a recession, a 3.7% GDP growth for this year is possible, the secretary-general of state agency National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), Danucha Pichayanan, said on Monday. Continued …

Thai industrial estates ride the EV boom

The electric vehicles (EV) market in Thailand is booming, in line with green energy trends, because they are environmentally friendly and offer cost savings as an alternative to fossil fuels.

The Thai government has been supportive of the EV industry and has implemented measures to promote the use of electric vehicles, through tax incentives and subsidies, to attract foreign EV manufacturers to set up factories in Thailand. These measures have also helped lower the prices of EVs in Thailand. Continued …

Polish National Arrested for Gruesome Murder and Dismemberment of Ukrainian Girlfriend

A Polish man allegedly murdered and dismembered his 25-year-old Ukrainian girlfriend “Alona” inside a condo room in the heart of Bangkok. He tried to flee the country via taxi yesterday but was arrested near the border of Cambodia in Sa Keao province last night.

Yesterday, police from Wat Phraya Krai Police Station were informed that the body of a Ukrainian woman was discovered in a condo room in Bang Khlo subdistrict in the Bang Kho Laem district of Bangkok. Continued …

Cops to arrest abettors of Aem Cyanide

Police will request arrest warrants from the court for associates of alleged serial killer Sararat “Aem” Rangsiwuthaporn, who advised and helped her destroy evidence of her crimes, according to the deputy national police chief.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Police Gen. Surachate Hakparn revealed that he hoped to be able to submit the case to the attorney general later this week. Continued …

This is what tourists to Hua Hin will look like in 2033

A study by Amadeus, the one of the world’s leading global providers of travel technology solutions, has given an insight into the tourist of the future.

Attendees at the May meeting of the Royal Coast Riviera Club saw a presentation from Anthony Hoglund, vice president and general counsel, Asia Pacific, for Amadeus, who revealed the different types of tourists who are most likely to visit Hua Hin and Thailand over the next decade. Continued …

Tycoon’s property unit to boost spending on tourism boom

The property and hotel development unit of Thailand’s richest man plans to invest at least 100 billion baht (US$3.1 billion) over the next five years to develop new shopping malls, hotels and office buildings, betting on pent-up demand once the pandemic subsides.

Asset World Corp.’s main project will be a mixed-use property development in Bangkok’s Chinatown, according to its Chief Executive Officer Wallapa Traisorat. It also plans to invest more at its Asiatique tourist-focused complex in the city, adding facilities including luxury hotels, she said. Continued …

Cruise ship’s arrival in Phuket signals booming tourism uplift

Yesterday, Phuket’s Makham Bay Customs dock was a hive of activity, as it welcomed the arrival of a massive cruise ship from Langkawi, Malaysia.

Spearheading the operation, Natchapong Pranit, director of the Phuket Regional Harbor Office, facilitated the docking of the ship, which brought with it over two thousand tourists to explore the province of Phuket. Continued …

TAT Unveils ‘Amazing Thailand Culinary City’ Project

The visionary initiative, aligned with the Thai government’s bio-circular-green (BCG) economy model, seeks to foster a creative economy by offering innovative and immersive experiences.

Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT deputy governor for marketing communications, elaborated, “The Amazing Thailand Culinary City project, developed within the framework of the BCG economy model, incorporates the AGFEC principles: agriculture, gastronomy, food safety, experience, and creative entrepreneurship. It promotes a circular economy and underscores our nation’s commitment to economic, social, and environmental sustainability.” Continued …

Argentina ramps interest rate to 97% as inflation soars

Argentina’s central bank hiked its base interest rate Monday by six points to 97% as the government prepares to announce a spate of measures to tackle soaring inflation ahead of October’s general election. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The 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

climate change, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-May 13

  • Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend/
  • ‘Monster’ Asian heatwave and arrival of El Niño signal severe drought crisis/
  • Thai parties make push to woo voters ahead of Sunday election/
  • Thailand’s long and winding election road/
  • Even wild elephants no match for Chachoengsao dogs/
  • Exploring the peace corps’ 60-year history in Thailand/
  • Thailand’s experiment with weed goes up in smoke/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Number of registered businesses at highest level in a decade/EV Primus angles to create EV supermarket/Chon Buri to get new EV battery factory/Asia Biomass eyes 20% revenue growth in 2023/El Nino May Slash Thai Rice Crop and Spur Inflation Across Asia/
  • Tourism: Thai tourism rebound evident with surge in new business registrations/‘Entry Thailand’ website introduced to provide useful information to visitors/
  • International: Russia Retreats North Of Bakhmut, Mercenary Boss Calls It A ‘Rout’/G-7 finance chiefs boost Ukraine aid, propose supply chain plan/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

 

Due to the election tomorrow, there will be no alcohol sales from 6pm tonight until 6pm Sunday.

 

 

Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend

The north, central, eastern and southern regions of Thailand will experience isolated heavy to very heavy rains from Friday to Monday due to the influence of tropical cyclone “Mocha”, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said on Friday.

The cyclone, which was hovering over the central Bay of Bengal as of 4am Friday, was moving north at about 10 km/hr with sustained winds of about 105 km/hr. It is expected to make landfall over Myanmar on either Sunday or Monday. Continued …

‘Monster’ Asian heatwave and arrival of El Niño signal severe drought crisis

Thailand is susceptible to the effects of El Niño, which is forecast by the Department of Meteorology and weather experts to commence in June. The world, Thailand included, is expected to face an intense drought due to the occurrence of El Niño, leading to reduced rainfall during the rainy season, or possibly no rain at all.

El Niño is the warm phase of a cyclical climate pattern known as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, when temperatures in the Pacific reach more than 0.5 degrees Celsius above normal. Continued …

Thai parties make push to woo voters ahead of Sunday election

Surrounded by adoring crowds packed inside stadiums and halls, the main prime ministerial candidates of Thailand’s political parties made a final push to rally supporters on Friday, two days before a crunch general election.

After nearly a decade of a government that was led or backed by its royalist military, some 52 million eligible voters in Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy will head to polling stations on Sunday when voters will choose whether to stay the course with military-linked conservatives or opt for change. Continued …

Thailand’s long and winding election road

When Thais go to the polls on Sunday, the challenge is how to help lay the groundwork for a system that can prevent the next election from being held under similar circumstances. It’s a tough ask, but every election presents a fresh hope, no matter how difficult the path remains.

The major paradox is there for all to see. It can’t be an election without heroes and villains, and it can’t be an election without everyone wanting to be a hero at the expense of others. It’s the way things are, but it’s not the way things are supposed to be. Continued … 

Even wild elephants no match for Chachoengsao dogs

An amusing scene of wild elephants being chased out of a residential area by a pack of domesticated dogs was captured on film by villagers on Friday evening.

A herd of some 20 wild elephants had wandered into Ban Khlong Mahad village in Chachoengsao’s Tha Takiab district, said Somwong Chanthachote, chief of the village’s “Elephant Watch” volunteer group. Continued …

Exploring the peace corps’ 60-year history in Thailand

The Peace Corps is a United States agency established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to promote peace and friendship worldwide. Peace Corps volunteers have been working in Thailand since 1962, assisting Thai government agencies in various fields.

Currently, they operate in two main projects: teacher collaboration for development and youth development. Over 5,500 volunteers have worked with Thai communities for more than 60 years, but their work was halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, Peace Corps volunteers returned to Thailand and underwent a 10-week training program before being dispatched to 29 provinces across the country. Their swearing-in ceremony coincided with the 60th-anniversary celebration of Peace Corps cooperation in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand’s experiment with weed goes up in smoke

After four years of support from the ruling coalition government, Thailand is expected to vote against the decriminalization of marijuana in Sunday’s general election. The current free-for-all and weed shops lining the busy tourist streets appears unlikely to continue in the months after the election and a new parliament is settled.

Almost all of the political parties involved in the 2023 national election are in favor of returning to the previous policies of marijuana prohibition and confining its use to medicinal purposes only. Only one party is still seeking some sort of policy that would allow and regulate recreational use. Continued …

Number of registered businesses at highest level in a decade

A total of 6,041 new businesses were registered in April, an increase of 12.37% over the same period last year, according to data released by the Department of Business Development under the Commerce Ministry.

The total number of registered establishments in operation during the first four months of this year reached 32,223, the highest in the past decade. The tourism sector saw 100% growth, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit disclosed on Friday. Continued …

EV Primus angles to create EV supermarket

The growing electric vehicle (EV) market in Thailand is leading car dealers to consider what EV brands should be featured in their showrooms.

Instead of relying on one brand, EV Primus sells a variety of brands, focusing on cars that match the different lifestyles of drivers. Continued …

Chon Buri to get new EV battery factory

Chinese high-tech enterprise Anwha (Shanghai) Automation Engineering has chosen Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor as its first overseas production base to make batteries for electric vehicles (Evs) under the MG brand.

“The factory will be located near the MG plant in Chon Buri,” said Anwha’s business development consultant Jay Teo, referring to a car assembly facility operated by Thai-Chinese joint venture SAIC Motor-CP, the manufacturer of MG cars. Continued …

Asia Biomass eyes 20% revenue growth in 2023

Asia Biomass Plc (ABM), Thailand’s largest biomass fuel producer and trader by volume, expects revenue to grow by 20% this year to more than 3.6 billion baht thanks to its business expansion amid growing concerns over global warming.

The company’s sales volume is projected to be 1 million tons in 2023. Last year, ABM revenue grew by 41% to 2.71 billion baht, up from 1.92 billion in 2021. Continued …

El Nino May Slash Thai Rice Crop and Spur Inflation Across Asia

Thailand, the world’s second-biggest rice exporter, is asking farmers to grow only one crop this year — instead of the usual two — as a likely El Nino looks set to reduce rainfall.

Rice is highly water-intensive and is dependent on irrigation and enough precipitation. It’s an early sign of how the disruptive weather pattern is threatening global food production. The resulting drop in rice output also has the potential to push up prices of a staple food for more than half the world’s population. Continued …

Thai tourism rebound evident with surge in new business registrations

Thailand’s tourism sector has witnessed a strong rebound, as evidenced by the significant surge in new registrations for tourism-related businesses during the initial four months of this year.

The Ministry of Commerce revealed yesterday that the number of new tourism-related business registrations had doubled year-on-year, reaching 2,579 in the first four months, with a total registered capital increase of 135% to 6.66 billion baht. Continued …

‘Entry Thailand’ website introduced to provide useful information to visitors

Thailand’s Department of Tourism has introduced “www.entrythailand.go.th,” a website that contains useful information, news, related websites, and applications for travelers on arrival and during their stay in Thailand.

The website features:

– Thailand information
– Real-time, in-depth flight information
– SHA/SHA+ accommodation booking
– Reservation home and camping
– Cultural calendar
– Weather warnings
– Thai disaster alert mobile application
– Thailand tourism directory
– VAT refund for tourists. Continued …

Russia Retreats North Of Bakhmut, Mercenary Boss Calls It A ‘Rout’

Moscow acknowledged on Friday that its forces had fallen back north of Ukraine’s battlefield city of Bakhmut after a new Ukrainian offensive, in a retreat that the head of Russia’s Wagner private army called a rout. Continued …

G-7 finance chiefs boost Ukraine aid, propose supply chain plan

Group of Seven (G-7) finance chiefs put more aid on the table for Ukraine, set up a new supply chain initiative and vowed to fill regulatory gaps in the banking sector in a show of unity on global geo-economic issues after three days of talks. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The 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

climate change, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-May 12

  • Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend/
  • Thai banks considering cash transaction fee ‘to cover their costs’/
  • Practical tips for learning Thai as a beginner/
  • Global warming and smog are boosting production of Thai air conditioners/
  • RTA army chief assures there’ll be ‘no coups on his watch’/
  • Foreign community looks to newly elected government for better investment opportunities/
  • Uptick in consumer confidence persists/
  • Roughly 60% of people in Asia-Pacific work a side job/
  • Thai cement firm ‘prints’ two-story medical center/
  • Arson attacks strike 23 locations in far south/
  • Why buying cannabis in Thailand might get tougher after election/
  • Tourism: TAT targets digital nomads with 100-baht travel vouchers on weekdays/Tourists flee as python slithers into Krabi’s Emerald Pool/Western tourists embrace traditional Chinese medicine in Thailand/THAI, Bangkok Airways earnings surge as tourists flock back/
  • Thailand Experience: The Food School Bangkok: Where Culinary Dreams Come to Life/
  • International: ASEAN pushes for greater local currency use/Labuan Bajo: Why is the Indonesian town known as the next Bali?/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend

The north, central, eastern and southern regions of Thailand will experience isolated heavy to very heavy rains from Friday to Monday due to the influence of tropical cyclone “Mocha”, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said today.

The cyclone, which was hovering over the central Bay of Bengal as of 4am today, was moving north at about 10 km/hr, with sustained winds of about 105 km/hr. It is expected to make landfall over Myanmar on either Sunday or Monday (May 14-15). Continued …

Thai banks considering cash transaction fee ‘to cover their costs’

The members of the Thai Bankers’ Assn. are considering adjusting banks’ fee structures, including levying a cash transaction fee, the association president, Payong Srivanich, said. The association will have to seek approval for the move from the Bank of Thailand (BOT).

Payong, who is also the executive director and member of Krungthai Bank’s risk oversight committee, said the adjustment of the fee structure was aimed at striking a balance between the banks’ costs and services, and not to increase profits. Continued …

Practical tips for learning Thai as a beginner

Learning a new language can be challenging, and Thai is no exception. As a beginner, you might find yourself struggling to grasp the tonal nuances of the language, the unfamiliar script, and the sheer volume of vocabulary to learn.

But with the right mindset and approach, learning Thai can be an exciting and rewarding journey that opens up a world of possibilities. And to make your language-learning journey smoother and more enjoyable, we’ve put together some practical tips that will help you get started on the right track. Continued …

Global warming and smog are boosting production of Thai air conditioners

Scorching heat and air pollution have driven production of air conditioners in Thailand to their highest level in eight years, the Office of Industrial Economics said on Thursday.

Warawan Chitaroon, its general director, said Thailand exported about US$850 million worth of air conditioners in March alone, up 16.7% from the same month last year. Continued …

RTA army chief assures there’ll be ‘no coups on his watch’

Royal Thai Army (RTA) Gen. Narongpan Jittkaewtae assured the Thai public yesterday that there would be no coups on his watch, stating that the term should not exist in anyone’s vocabulary. Narongpan is set to retire on Sept. 30 and provided reassurances in the lead-up to the elections on Sunday. There have been concerns about possible unrest following the polls.

When questioned about the potential for future unrest and the military’s response, the Army chief explained that he was not worried. Continued …

Foreign community looks to newly elected government for better investment opportunities

Thailand’s foreign community is hoping for a more democratic and investor-friendly new government to emerge from the general election taking place this Sunday, May 14.

Jon Åström Gröndahl, Swedish ambassador to Thailand, said: “Sweden welcomes Thailand’s general election and hopes that it will be a free and fair election.” Continued …

Uptick in consumer confidence persists

Consumer confidence in April rose for an 11th straight month, reaching the highest level in 38 months, helped by a reduction in Covid-19 infections, the recovery of domestic tourism and lively election campaigns nationwide.

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) reported on Thursday the consumer confidence index rose to 55 in April from 53.8 in March, 52.6 in February and 51.7 in January. Continued …

Roughly 60% of people in Asia-Pacific work a side job

Almost 60% of people in Asia-Pacific have a side job, with the majority saying they do so to make ends meet, according to a recent survey from global health and wellness company Herbalife.

Findings from Herbalife’s 2023 Asia-Pacific Side Job Survey indicated almost 3 in 5 (59%) respondents have a side job, with the top reason (61%) being to make ends meet. Continued …

Thai cement firm ‘prints’ two-story medical center

Thailand’s Siam Cement Group (SCG) has printed a two-story medical center in Saraburi, billed as the first of its kind in the world.

It used Danish printer-maker Cobod’s BOD2 concrete printer to build the 345-sq-meter facility faster and with fewer workers compared to conventional construction practices, Cobod said. Continued …

Arson attacks strike 23 locations in far south

Twenty-three locations in Thailand’s southernmost provinces were hit by arson attacks late on Thursday night, resulting in the torching of mobile phone antenna towers and power poles and the burning of tires. The incidents occurred between 9pm and 11pm, officials said.

The affected areas included seven locations in Muang, Raman and Thanto districts of Yala; 12 locations in Muang, Nong Chik, Sai Buri, and Yarang districts of Pattani; and four locations in Muang, Rueso and Tak Bai districts of Narathiwat. Continued …

Why buying cannabis in Thailand might get tougher after election

The days of easily buying marijuana on the streets of Bangkok or Phuket may soon be over.

Four years after the Bhumjaithai party won almost four million votes on a vow to decriminalize cannabis — then carrying it out as the third-biggest bloc in a military-backed government — the tide has turned: most of the parties contesting Sunday’s national election are calling for the measure to be repealed and restrict the use of cannabis to medical purposes. Continued …

TAT targets digital nomads with 100-baht travel vouchers on weekdays

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on Thursday launched a new campaign offering tourism promotions for as little as 100 baht to encourage Thais to travel during the week and work remotely.

Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, TAT deputy governor for the domestic market, announced the “Workation Thailand for only 100 baht” campaign at a press conference, saying its goal was to increase domestic travel and overnight stays during weekdays by offering tourism products and services for as little as 100 baht each. Continued …

Tourists flee as python slithers into Krabi’s Emerald Pool

A two-meter-long python slithered into the popular Emerald Pool in Krabi province in southern Thailand on Tuesday, sending panicked tourists clambering in all directions.

In a chaotic TikTok clip, tourists scream as one brave swimmer splashes water at the python on the poolside in an attempt to drive it away. But it was a hot day. The python wanted to cool off, too. Video 

Western tourists embrace traditional Chinese medicine in Thailand

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is seeing a surge in popularity among Western tourists visiting Thailand and other Asian nations where TCM is widely practiced and easily accessible. Visitors are often drawn to TCM due to its perceived effectiveness, the use of natural remedies, and its holistic approach to health and wellness.

In recent years, TCM has received increased recognition and acceptance in the Western world, with many countries legalizing and regulating its practice. This has also contributed to the growing number of Western tourists seeking TCM treatments while vacationing in Thailand. Continued …

THAI, Bangkok Airways earnings surge as tourists flock back

Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways reported a surge in first-quarter earnings as tourists flocked back to the nation.

Thai Air posted net income of 12.51 billion baht in the three months through March, rebounding from a net loss of 3.25 billion baht a year earlier. Bangkok Airways’ net income was 875 million baht versus a net loss of 1.02 billion baht in the same quarter last year. Continued …

The Food School Bangkok: Where Culinary Dreams Come to Life

Aspiring chefs seeking an exceptional learning experience that can launch a highly successful career need look no further than The Food School Bangkok, a progressive culinary school that brings together three renowned partner institutes in a single location.

ALMA – The School of Italian Culinary Arts from Italy, TSUJI Culinary Institute from Japan, and Dusit Thani College from Thailand have joined forces to create a unique culinary educational experience for aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts. Continued …

ASEAN pushes for greater local currency use

ASEAN leaders declared at this week’s summit in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, that member countries should use their own currencies more often in intraregional trade, as the bloc aims to insulate the region from external volatility. Continued …

Labuan Bajo: Why is the Indonesian town known as the next Bali?

Southeast Asia’s leaders are meeting this week in an enchanting harbor town known as a “gateway to the dragons” and one of Indonesia’s “10 new Balis”. Labuan Bajo is a once-quiet fishing village nestled in the westernmost part of Flores Island, in east Indonesia’s Nusa Tenggara region. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The 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, marijuana, real estate, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-May 8

  • Heatstroke warning as mercury rises beyond 50ᵒC in many parts of Thailand/
  • Thais warned of heavy rain, strong wind and hail/
  • Thailand Election 2023: Eager Thais cast ballots in early voting/
  • Dark predictions as the opposition parties look set to sweep to power in next weekend’s Election/
  • The critical first 100 days/
  • Police to seek additional arrest warrants in cyanide poisoning investigation/
  • Remote Korat villagers to get electricity after 70 years/
  • Chinese seeking freedom, security snap up posh homes in post-Covid Thailand/
  • Thailand’s cannabis sellers say US growers are eating their lunch/
  • Tourism: Departures tax hailed as the kiss of death/’No plan’ to revive exit tax/New Bt300 foreign tourism levy postponed yet again/How Thailand is Preparing for a Surge of Chinese Tourists arrivals/Thailand’s B2B Startups Lead to Tourism Renaissance/
  • Thailand Experience: How a two-week kayaking adventure teaches you to slow down and enjoy the moment/5 Best Places To Visit In Bangkok/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Heatstroke warning as mercury rises beyond 50ᵒC in many parts of Thailand

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned people to beware of heatstroke, as the mercury is expected to rise beyond 50 degrees Celsius in many parts of the country.

TMD said Chonburi would be the hottest city in the east of Thailand on Sunday, with the temperature hitting 53ᵒC. In Bangkok, the hottest district would be Bang Na, which will hit 52.7ᵒC.

The hottest city in the Northeast is Kosum Phisai district in Maha Sarakham with 46ᵒC, while Phuket in the South hit 51.1ᵒC. – The Nation

Thais warned of heavy rain, strong wind and hail

Thailand’s Meteorological Department has forecast a 24-hour weather outlook, with the northern region experiencing summer storms characterized by thunderstorms, strong winds, and isolated hail. Some areas may also experience lightning.

Residents in these regions are advised to exercise caution during summer storms, avoiding open spaces, large trees, weak structures, and billboards. It is also recommended to avoid wearing metallic items and using mobile phones during thunderstorms. Farmers should prepare to protect their agricultural produce and livestock from potential damage. Continued …

Thailand Election 2023: Eager Thais cast ballots in early voting

Eager Thai voters cast their ballots on Sunday a week ahead of the official polls, with many lining up before the doors opened at 8am.

Gosol Pungtaku, 51, was among the many voters who expressed a desire to see positive changes and progress in Thailand. “There has been a rise in drug-related and criminal incidents, so I hope that the newly elected government will take steps to prevent them,” said Gosol. Continued …

Dark predictions as the opposition parties look set to sweep to power in next weekend’s Election

The prime minister’s United Thai Nation (Ruam Thai Sang Chart) Party has released a video clip warning of the danger of Thailand reverting to a land of political turmoil with just days to go to the general election, with the two main opposition parties, Move Forward and Pheu Thai, riding high in the polls. At the same time, a revered abbot in Chiang Mai is predicting a return to street protests and civil strife in the aftermath of next weekend’s election.

With days to go before the general election in Thailand on May 14, uneasiness currently pervades the country’s political scene with all opinion polls showing clearly the prospect of a decisive victory for the key opposition parties of Pheu Thai Party and Move Forward in what is shaping up as a profound rejection of the post-coup government formed in 2019, with parties in that government looking like they will be lucky to gain 20% to 25% of the vote, while the opposition bloc looks poised to poll anywhere from 65% to 85% of the vote. Continued …

The critical first 100 days

Business leaders have begun to think about the outlook for Thailand in the first 100 days under a new administration, with the poll less than a week away.

From the appointment of new ministers to policy priorities in the business sector, executives share their wishes for the incoming government. Continued …

Police to seek additional arrest warrants in cyanide poisoning investigation

Thai police are to seek warrants for the arrests of one or two additional suspects, thought to have assisted serial murder suspect Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn, who is believed to be responsible for the deaths of at least 15 people, allegedly by cyanide poisoning.

Police Gen. Surachate Hakparn, the deputy national police chief, said Saturday that they have obtained sufficient evidence to indicate that Sararat acted alone in procuring cyanide online, but used other people’s names and addresses to cover her tracks. Continued …

Remote Korat villagers to get electricity after 70 years

For city dwellers, just 30 minutes of power outage can feel like the end of the world. Yet, there are some 300 people in a remote corner of Nakhon Ratchasima who have been living without electricity since their village was formed 70 years ago.

It is Ban Sub Hin Kaew or Moo 16 village in Tambon Chanthuek of Nakhon Ratchasima’s Pak Chong district. Continued …

Chinese seeking freedom, security snap up posh homes in post-Covid Thailand

Shanghai resident Daniel Bian drinks in the sweeping views over the Thai capital from the 19th-floor, rooftop swimming pool of a luxury condominium that may become his second home. “Hello, Bangkok!” he shouts happily as his 70-year-old mother looks on, smiling.

Cooped up in Chinafor three years under some of the world’s toughest curbs against Covid-19, Bian is among a flood of mainland Chinese hunting for property in the Southeast Asian nation since Beijing opened its borders this year. Many are eager to invest in a second home, keen for a safety net in case of a similar disease outbreak, and also to hedge against economic risks at home. Continued … 

Thailand’s cannabis sellers say US growers are eating their lunch

Nearly a year after Thailand decriminalized cannabis amid promises of an economic bonanza, Thai growers and sellers say they are being undercut by illegal imports from the United States that sell for a fraction of the price of homegrown buds.

Thailand struck cannabis from its list of banned narcotics in June 2022 after a high-profile campaign by Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to establish the kingdom as a global hub for cannabis for medical purposes. But Thailand’s parliament has yet to pass a long-awaited cannabis bill, leaving the regulatory framework for the industry in limbo. Continued …

Departures tax hailed as the kiss of death

Tourism industry chiefs were shocked this week to discover that Thailand’s Revenue Department is laying the groundwork for a new outbound levy of Bt1,000 to be applied to all outgoing airline passengers from Thailand, including foreign tourists and Thai citizens, in addition to already existing charges and levies.

One key travel industry executive warned that the plans will have a serious negative impact on the country’s still-recovering tourism industry and may disrupt the plans of airlines that Thailand badly needs to reconnect to its international airports. Continued …

‘No plan’ to revive exit tax

The Revenue Department rejects claims that it is planning to impose a 1,000-baht departure tax on departing Thais and foreign residents.

Responding to fears raised on social media, the department says it is legally obligated by the constitution to seek the public’s opinion on executive decrees scrapped by past administrations. Continued …

New Bt300 foreign tourism levy postponed yet again

A leading tourist industry chief has called for the government to establish a separate state agency to manage the country’s proposed foreign tourism levy, which has been postponed yet again by the Minister of Tourism and Sports Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn until after a new government is formed.

Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, the chairman of the Phuket Tourist Assn., also expressed concern that the collection of the levy should not be imposed on airline carriers, while it should also be collected at both land and sea points of entry into the kingdom. The new tourism levy, according to the minister and key officials, will pay for automatic emergency health coverage for foreign tourists who get into trouble in Thailand but the industry itself is perplexed by concern about the ongoing delay in the introduction of the charge and transparency around how the money raised is used in what could turn out to be a vast annual sum collected by the government as tourist numbers rise. Continued …

How Thailand is Preparing for a Surge of Chinese Tourists arrivals

Thailand is expecting a significant increase in the number of Chinese tourists in May, as Chinese airlines plan to operate more flights to the country.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), Chinese airlines have requested to increase their flights to Thailand from 100 per week to 430 per week starting on June 1. Continued …

Thailand’s B2B Startups Lead to Tourism Renaissance

Thailand’s tourism industry has long been a major contributor to the country’s economy. Travel bans and border closures brought on by the COVID-19 epidemic have had a substantial impact on the sector, nevertheless, as evidenced by the steep drop in visitor numbers.

In spite of these difficulties, Thailand’s startup ecosystem has become a significant force for innovation and expansion in the travel and tourist industry. In this new era of travel, B2B leads are now more crucial than ever. Startups are transforming business processes for hotels, airlines, and other travel service providers with innovative B2B solutions. Continued …

How a two-week kayaking adventure teaches you to slow down and enjoy the moment

The sky is overcast as I paddle out from a small beach on the morning of my 50th birthday on Day 1 of a two-week, 250km solo kayaking trip around Phang Nga Bay, an aquatic biosphere off the southwest of Thailand, with dramatic islands and limestone karsts that rise like titans hundreds of meters from the sea.

I’ve never done anything like this before, but past travels have taught me a bit about problem-solving in remote places and how to pack for survival. Continued …

5 Best Places To Visit In Bangkok

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss out on some of the must-visit places in Bangkok. From ancient temples to bustling markets, Bangkok has something for everyone.

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, are two of the most famous attractions in Bangkok. The Grand Palace was the official residence of the Kings of Siam (now Thailand) since 1782. Today, the palace is used for ceremonial purposes only. Visitors can see the palace complex and its intricate architecture, which reflects a blend of Thai and European styles. Wat Phra Kaew is the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand and houses the Emerald Buddha, a highly revered statue carved from a single block of jade. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The 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, climate change, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-May 5

  • Hua Hin learning-disabilities school progress reported/
  • Searing heat continues in north, storms most likely in central, eastern and southern regions/
  • Thailand to enter rainy season later this month, less rain expected/
  • ‘Safe’ dust pollution threshold cut 25%/
  • Thailand’s democracy faces pivotal moment in upcoming election/
  • The future of Thai workforce: Embracing flex work and employee experiences/
  • GrabFood No.1* Food Delivery App is now available in English/
  • Bikini-wearing durian seller sparks sales in Kamphaeng Phet/
  • Actress and nurses investigated for buying same poison as killer/
  • Indian gambling kingpin in net after bust in Pattaya/
  • Karen villagers’ settlement in Kaeng Krachan National Park sparks public outcry/
  • Three People Seriously Injured After Guardrail Pierces Through Minivan/
  • Thailand’s One Drone, One Community project aims to boost smart farming/
  • Foreigner police report: Young Polish Woman Dies in Motorbike Accident in Phuket/Canadian teenager found dead in Bangkok condo room/Fun-loving UK teenager dies after taking drugs at Full Moon party/Italian man throws furniture off Pattaya balcony, tests positive for ‘ice’/Body found floating near Koh Samui/
  • Tourism: Why Are Chinese Group Tours in April Lower Than Expected?/Full Moon Party draws 20,000 tourists to Koh Phangan/Tourist Police launch campaign to enforce Alcohol Ban during elections/AOT to extend automated check-in at Suvarnabhumi airport from June 1/AOT to develop Suvarnabhumi into the nation’s first ‘Green’ airport prototype/Sacred Thai temple closes after vendors accused of tarnishing it/Thailand to close several popular islands for environmental restoration/
  • Thailand Experience: The Best Beers To Pair With The Many Flavors Of Thai Food/
  • International: Another Mass Shooting Rocks Serbia Just Days After Deadly School Rampage/Heating oceans a climate ‘time bomb’/Russia takes stock after failed offensive/China factories tap brakes on recovery/Airbnb upbeat as tourism rebounds/In Brazil, a damaged city lives on edge of abyss/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Hua Hin learning-disabilities school progress reported

Almost 12 months ago, the construction of a new school for children with learning difficulties began near Black Mountain, with the support of a variety of provincial, municipal and education officials, and the sponsorship of many community and business organizations.

E-Jan, a large Bangkok-based media group, is just one of these benefactors offering sponsorship for this significant development in the region’s capacity to meet the needs of disadvantaged children in the community. Continued …

Searing heat continues in north, storms most likely in central, eastern and southern regions

The Meteorological Department today warned the central, eastern, and southern regions to expect possible thundershowers and strong wind gusts.

Low pressure due to heat covers upper Thailand, making it generally hot with cloudy skies during the day, with extreme heat in some areas in the North. Continued …

Thailand to enter rainy season later this month, less rain expected

The rainy season in Thailand will start in the third week of May. The Meteorological Department has announced it is expecting less precipitation this year.

The department expects the amount of precipitation throughout the monsoon season to be 5% less than the normal range. Continued …

‘Safe’ dust pollution threshold cut 25%

The Pollution Control Department (PCD) said it will follow World Health Organization guidelines and reclassify the safe level for ultra-fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from 50 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) to 37.5 µg/m3 in a bid to curb dust pollution.

Jatuporn Burutphat, permanent secretary for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, said the ministry supports lowering the threshold on Thailand’s Air Quality Index. Continued …

Thailand’s democracy faces pivotal moment in upcoming election

As Thailand prepares for its upcoming general election on May 14, the country has found itself facing a pivotal moment in the history of its democracy, with Bangkok residents calling for change after having lived under the current administration for eight years.

“I am certain that change is what I want to see,” said 48-year-old Bangkok resident Naratouch Kanjanakul. “We were previously forced to accept things as they were.” Continued …

The future of Thai workforce: Embracing flex work and employee experiences

Despite facing economic uncertainties, nearly 60% of global executives anticipate their businesses to achieve stable or significant growth. Asian leaders, however, express concerns about the rising cost of capital and debt, labor market tightness, and competition for talent when planning for the upcoming year.

In the Global Talent Trends (GTT) Study 2023 by Mercer, human resources leaders in Thailand shared similar concerns. The study surveyed around 2,500 HR leaders worldwide, with nearly 100 companies in Thailand being represented. Among the issues highlighted were a lack of workforce capability and future skills (47%), too many priorities distracting employees (40%), and juggling transformation with a survival mindset (38%). Continued …

GrabFood No.1* Food Delivery App is now available in English

Living in a foreign country can be a thrilling adventure, but it can also pose its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles for many expats is navigating unfamiliar dining options.

With language barriers and an overwhelming array of unfamiliar dishes, finding a satisfying meal can be a daunting task. Fortunately, in Thailand, there’s an app that stands out from the rest, making your life a little easier: GrabFood. Continued …

Bikini-wearing durian seller sparks sales in Kamphaeng Phet

A young woman wearing a pink bikini has created a buzz by selling durians in front of a roadside shop. The “Thip Durian” shop is located along Kamphaeng Phet-Phichit Road in Mueang District. The woman behind the bikini, Aranya or Nong Aum, is 22 years old. She sells durians to help her mother, who has been selling seasonal fruits for over 31 years to generate income and send her children to study. According to Nong Aum, durian sales have exceeded expectations. (Thai Rath)

Actress and nurses investigated for buying same poison as killer

There has been another twist in the Thai cyanide serial killer case. Not only has the serial killer’s husband been charged with aiding and abetting her crimes and released on bail, but the Royal Thai Police (RTP) is investigating the purchase of some cyanide by a famous Thai actress and 10 nurses, who reportedly bought the poison from the same lot number as the killer.

Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, the alleged Thai cyanide serial killer, has been charged with the murder of 10 of the 14 victims so far. The RTP has finished gathering evidence in the other four cases and it is reported that Am will be charged for those, as well. Continued …

Indian gambling kingpin in net after bust in Pattaya

Chikoti Praveen, an infamous name in India due to his activities in casinos and gambling, has been caught in a major raid by police in Thailand.

He was one among at least 83 Indian tourists caught during the raid. The arrest took place in early hours of Monday at Asia Pattaya Hotel in Bang Lamung District. Chikoti Praveen had raked in more than 12 million dollars from a makeshift casino set up in the hotel’s convention center. Continued …

Karen villagers’ settlement in Kaeng Krachan National Park sparks public outcry

Protests have erupted among local residents in Phetchaburi over the Thai government’s decision to settle 150 Karen villagers in Kaeng Krachan National Park.

The controversy was sparked on April 30 when the prime minister issued an order permitting the villagers to return to arable land located deep within the Bang Kloy Bon area of the national park. Continued …

Three People Seriously Injured After Guardrail Pierces Through Minivan

Three people have sustained severe injuries after a minivan crashed before piercing through a guardrail in the Thung Song district of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

The Thung Song Police were notified of the accident on Thursday morning on the Asia Nakhon Si – Bangkok Road in the Cha Mai subdistrict. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find that a guardrail had pierced through a minivan on the left side. Continued … 

Thailand’s One Drone, One Community project aims to boost smart farming

The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) has announced its plan to launch a pioneering project in Thailand that will provide large drones to communities and offer training in drone maintenance to encourage smart-farming development.

The initiative, titled “One Drone, One Community,” is backed by the Digital Economy Fund and aims to create an economic impact exceeding 800 million baht across 500 communities, with a planned start date in July. Continued …

Foreigner police report:

Young Polish Woman Dies in Motorbike Accident in Chalong, Phuket

A 33-year-old female Polish rider died after she crashed her motorbike and slid under a trailer truck in Chalong, Phuket. Continued …

Canadian teenager found dead in Bangkok condo room

A young Canadian man was found dead in his rented condo room in Bangkok yesterday. Police say they are investigating suspicious evidence found inside the room. Continued …

Fun-loving UK teenager dies after taking drugs at Full Moon party

A fun-loving, “fiercely independent” teenager from the United Kingdom died after taking drugs at a Full Moon party in Thailand an inquest heard. A UK coroner yesterday determined that the 18-year-old woman from Winchester died by misadventure after taking ecstasy while backpacking in Thailand. Continued …

Italian man throws furniture off Pattaya balcony, tests positive for ‘ice’

An Italian man made a scene in front of over 100 witnesses on Wednesday night when he threw furniture and large items off a Pattaya balcony. Continued …

Body found floating near Koh Samui

A dead body was found floating in the sea between Koh Samui on Koh Pha Ngan in Surat Thani province, southern Thailand, yesterday. The deceased appears to be a foreign woman. Continued …

Why Are Chinese Group Tours in April Lower Than Expected?

According to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), the number of tourists traveling in the form of “group tours” through tour companies using the services of ATTA at Suvarnabhumi Airport in April 2023 was between 1,000 and 2,000 people per day, compared to approximately 3,000 to 4,000 people in March, a decrease of over 50%, clearly reflecting the significant loss of tourists traveling through tour companies.

Adith Chairattananon, secretary-general of ATTA, which looks after the inbound market (Chinese tourists), said the big problem for the Chinese tourism market at the moment is the inconvenience of applying for visas. Continued …

Full Moon Party draws 20,000 tourists to Koh Phangan

About 20,000 tourists attended the popular Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan on Thursday night, and it is estimated that the holiday will generate tens of millions of baht for the southern island. Continued … 

Tourist Police launch campaign to enforce Alcohol Ban during elections

Yesterday, Police Lt. Col. Pramet Duangkaew led a team of tourist police officers on a mission to enforce an alcohol ban during the upcoming elections.

They were stationed in the busy Rama 9 market area and the popular Khao San Road, where they distributed flyers and conducted public relations activities. Continued …

AOT to extend automated check-in at Suvarnabhumi airport from June 1

Starting June 1, air passengers can check in with their luggage using automated check-in services up to five hours in advance of their departure time, instead of three hours, in order to address congestion at the check-in counters at Suvarnabhumi international airport, according to Kirati Kitmanawat, president of Airports of Thailand Public Co. (AOT).

He disclosed that passengers are worried about the congestion at check-in, with some arriving at the airport up to seven hours in advance, but check-in counters for most airlines only open three hours in advance of departure, resulting in congestion. Continued …

AOT to develop Suvarnabhumi into the nation’s first ‘Green’ airport prototype

Airports of Thailand’s Chief Executive Officer Kirati Kitmanawat says that AOT has a 4-year plan to turn Suvarnabhumi Airport into the first environmentally friendly, or “Green” airport in Thailand. The goal is to develop renewable energy for use within the airport to reduce electricity costs by an average of 20%-30% per year.

AOT has already installed solar panels on the roof of the main terminal and will be adding further photovoltaic power to support a renewable energy system that can help reduce electricity costs even more, similar to other major airports overseas, which have shifted to solar panels to generate power. Continued … 

Sacred Thai temple closes after vendors accused of tarnishing it

Wat Phra That Phanom, one of the most important spiritual sites in Thailand, will be closed for one month starting today so that a plan can be developed and implemented to ensure the vendors who conduct business in and around the temple do not trash it. The mess vendors make inside and around the temple will prevent Wat Phra That Phanom from being named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is located near the Mekong River in That Phanom district in the southern part of Nakhon Phanom province in the Northeast. (The Nation)

Thailand to close several popular islands for environmental restoration

Four islands in Trang province, southern Thailand, will close for four months to give nature a chance to restore itself after a hectic tourist season, namely Koh Muk, Koh Kradan, Koh Chuek, and Koh Waen. Thailand’s Similan Islands will also close for the monsoon season.

Yesterday, the chief of Hat Chao Mai National Park, Prit Narasaritkul, announced the temporary cease of tourism activities and overnight stays in the park from June 1 – Sept. 30. Continued …

The Best Beers To Pair With The Many Flavors Of Thai Food

Thai food is one of the world’s most unique, flavorful cuisines. There are so many flavors and ingredients that go into that panang curry, tom yum soup, or papaya salad you love at your local Thai restaurant, from lemongrass and chili peppers to fish sauce and coconut milk.

What makes Thai cuisine so delicious and complex is the ability to marry some of the most interesting ingredients harmoniously and fit into five flavor profiles: spicy, salty, sour, sweet, and creamy. Every authentic Thai dish you have the pleasure of digging into expertly blends the above elements. Continued …

Another Mass Shooting Rocks Serbia Just Days After Deadly School Rampage

At least eight people were killed and 10 wounded late Thursday in a drive-by shooting in a town close to Belgrade, the second such mass killing in Serbia in two days, state television reported. Continued …

Heating oceans a climate ‘time bomb’

With sea surface temperatures swelling to new highs in recent weeks, scientists warn that humanity’s carbon pollution has the potential to turn oceans into a global warming “time bomb”. Continued …

Russia takes stock after failed offensive

Russia announced its winter offensive in Ukraine with great fanfare, but the ill-fated campaign has been another disappointment for Moscow. Continued …

China factories tap brakes on recovery

China’s factory activity unexpectedly contracted in April, as orders fell and poor domestic demand dragged on the sprawling manufacturing sector, a private survey showed on Thursday, imperiling the broader economic outlook for the second quarter. Continued …

Airbnb upbeat as tourism rebounds

Airbnb closed 2022 with an impressive turnaround, as the pandemic-hit business reported its first annual profit on revenue growth of 40% to US$8.4 billion, with net income of USD9 billion. Continued …

In Brazil, a damaged city lives on edge of abyss

A few steps from a cliff edge, Deusimar Batista is hanging clothes to dry in her yard. Near it, a neighbor’s house used to stand on a residential street, but they have all collapsed into the abyss. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

The 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, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-April 12

  • Best value-for-money neighborhoods in Hua Hin and around Thailand/
  • Airport VIP bus schedule expanded/
  • Songkran events in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan/
  • Artist Village schedules Songkran event/
  • Chiva-Som Hua Hin marks 28th anniversary/
  • Prime Suspect Still on the Run After Six Deaths in Surat Thani/
  • Foreigners Rounded Up In Buriram Crackdown/
  • Police bust gang of thieves targeting foreigners in northeast Thailand/
  • Forest fires reignite near Khao Yai National Park/
  • 10 things you need to know about Thailand’s election/
  • Feature phones or ‘dumb phones’ are becoming popular again/
  • Free buses connect main rail terminals/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Thailand’s days of GDP growth in excess of 5% may be a thing of the past/Agencies predict economic uptick/Thailand’s newfound economic stardom comes with caveats/Tourism, construction, real estate, restaurants see continuous recovery/
  • Tourism: Songkran is here: Ayutthaya trumpets message with colorful march of elephants/Phuket to Generate at Least 4.5 Billion Baht During Songkran/Over 900 International Chartered Flights So Far This Year/Sustainable tourism gains traction in Thailand/
  • Thailand Experience: The scented water that gives Songkran its unique fragrance/Discovering Banrai Thummachot, Hua Hin’s first coffee plantation/New Songkhla skywalk unveils southern beauty/
  • International: Myanmar confirms deadly air strike as international outcry mounts/IMF issues growth warning as it lowers 2023 forecast/Study warns critical ocean current is nearing ‘collapse’/What we know so far on the leaked Pentagon documents/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Best value-for-money neighborhoods in Hua Hin and around Thailand

For those considering living in Thailand, finding a neighborhood that offers a great quality of life at an affordable price is essential. However, finding the right neighborhood to live in can be an intimidating task, especially for those on a budget. Fortunately, there are many neighborhoods throughout Thailand that offer excellent value for money, providing a comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Pranburi, Central Hua Hin, West Hua Hin

Sitting along the sun-kissed coastline of the Prachuap Khiri Khan province in Thailand, Hua Hin has become a sought-after destination. It’s popular among expats and retirees living in Thailand, as well as property investors. Renowned for its tranquil lifestyle, balmy climate, and affordable cost of living, this captivating coastal town offers a plethora of value-for-money neighborhoods. Each promises a delightful combination of relaxation and smart property investment. Continued …

Airport VIP bus schedule expanded

Bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has been updated, with an additional trip scheduled. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10om, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:00pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6:30pm

Songkran events in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan

Following a three-year hiatus related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Songkran events are set to make a splash again this year in Thailand.

The annual water festival, which celebrates the Thai New Year, was canceled or scaled back in previous years due to the pandemic, but this year Songkran is back in full swing.

It is celebrated on April 13 every year, but the holiday extends to April 15 and is traditionally a time for people to come together, celebrate, and pay respect to their elders and ancestors. Continued … 

Artist Village schedules Songkran event

From April 14-16, Hua Hin’s Artist Village will be hosting the Art Arbour: Hua Hin Art & Workshop Week 2023.

During the event, visitors can participate in a variety of workshops and activities.

Chiva-som Hua Hin

Chiva-Som Hua Hin marks 28th anniversary

April is a milestone month for Chiva-Som Hua Hin as it celebrates its 28th anniversary and, to commemorate the occasion, it launches special offers throughout the month in conjunction with the Songkran festival.

It all began when Chiva-Som founder Boonchu Rojanastien removed his beachfront holiday home to make way for a sanctuary that more people could enjoy and Chiva-Som officially opened its doors on April 19, 1995. Since then, it has pioneered an innovative, holistic approach to wellness that balances mind, body and spirit. Continued … 

Prime Suspect Still on the Run After Six Deaths in Surat Thani

Police are still hunting for a prime suspect after six people, including the prime suspect’s son and wife, were shot dead in the Khiri Rat Nikhom district.

Region 8 Police commander Surapong Thanomjit said on Saturday (April 8) four people were found dead at a Khiri Rat Nikhom house, who were Thammarong Nilniyom, 61, the house owner and the former village headman, Nilthip Pankachen, 48, who was Thammarong’s wife, Phonsak Petchchoo, 58, a former village headman, and Thammrat Wichean. Continued …

Foreigners Rounded Up In Buriram Crackdown

A crackdown by Immigration police in northeastern Buriram province during March 27-April 10 led to six foreigners being rounded up for overstaying their visa.

Acting on the orders of Police Maj. Gen. Phanthana Nuchanart, deputy chief of the Immigration Bureau, to prevent and suppress crime during Songkran festival, Police Maj. Gen. Ketchakat Nilpradap, head of Immigration Division 4, led his team in mounting raids to round up foreign suspects. Continued …

Police bust gang of thieves targeting foreigners in northeast Thailand

Police announced the results of their investigation into a gang of thieves targeting foreigners with families all over the Isaan region in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeast Thailand. Police seized stolen assets worth an accumulative three million baht.

The gang found its victims by sitting in shopping malls around Isaan and scouting out foreigners with families. Then, the gang would follow the foreigner home and scope out their house. Continued …

Forest fires reignite near Khao Yai National Park

About 150 firefighters have been mobilized to control forest fires, which have reignited in Thailand’s Nakhon Nayok province, as helicopters were also deployed in an attempt to prevent fires from spreading into Khao Yai National Park.

Fire and water trucks have been sent to local communities not far from Khao Nang Dam, where fires are reported to have broken out again and are spreading toward Khao Tabaek, about 500 meters from the border with Cha-om subdistrict of Saraburi province. Continued …

10 things you need to know about Thailand’s election

The countdown to the May 14 general election is well underway, with a little over a month left before the big day.

The election was called after Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha dissolved the House of Representatives on March 20 – just three days before the Lower House completed its four-year term. Here are 10 things to know about the upcoming national vote: Continued … 

Feature phones or ‘dumb phones’ are becoming popular again

In recent years, there has been a surprising resurgence in the popularity of “dumb phones,” also known as feature phones. While smartphones have dominated the mobile phone market for over a decade, a growing number of people, particularly Generation Z, are looking to cut back on screen time and are turning to these simpler devices.

According to recent data, smartphone sales in the United States have been on the decline. In 2022, sales of smartphones dropped by nearly 20% compared to the previous year, marking the third consecutive year of decline. Continued …

Free buses connect main rail terminals

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has launched a free shuttle service that connects Hua Lamphong Station to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal.

The shuttle buses are available at both stations from 4.30am to 11pm, said Aekkarat Sriarayanpong, the SRT’s public relations director. Continued …

Thailand’s days of GDP growth in excess of 5% may be a thing of the past

Amid a warning from the OECD this week that Southeast Asian economies may see retarded growth and an update from the Bank of Thailand predicting 3.6% growth for 2023, there are real fears that Thailand’s days of GDP growth of over 5% may be behind it despite election pledges from the Pheu Thai Party to pursue an expansionary economic policy if it comes to power.

The reason for this is the country’s rapidly aging population and demographic problem, as it is already an aged society and faces becoming a super-aged society by 2029. It is also one of the first countries in the world to experience such a problem without ever having become wealthy. Continued …

Agencies predict economic uptick

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is feeling upbeat regarding Thailand’s economic recovery, citing the forecasts of several reputable economic agencies, including the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan Center for Economic Research (JCER), that anticipate a rebound in 2023 and 2024.

According to government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri, Prayut credits the agencies for the evaluation and Thais for collaborating to restore the country’s economy. Continued …

Thailand’s newfound economic stardom comes with caveats

Once synonymous with the crisis that brought on an Asia-wide financial meltdown a generation ago, Thailand gets almost rave reviews now. This relative resilience of its economy may be tested by a pronounced downturn and a re-awakening of the country’s deep political divisions.

Calamity appears to be the last thing on investors’ minds when they think of Thailand these days. Goldman Sachs Group even likened the nation to a “safe haven.” Among the kingdom’s attributes are a resurgence in tourism, low foreign debt and a surplus in the broadest measure of trade. That’s a halo historically associated with Switzerland, Japan or prized asset classes like U.S. Treasuries. Continued …

Tourism, construction, real estate, restaurants see continuous recovery

Thailand’s tourism sector has seen continuous recovery, aided by government measures to attract foreign tourists. This led to a sharp increase in new tourism-related business registrations in February.

According to government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri, the number of new tourism-related business registrations in February 2023 increased by 1.1 times compared to last year. This accounted for 8.05% of the total 8,537 new-business registrations that month. Continued …

Songkran is here: Ayutthaya trumpets message with colorful march of elephants

Ayutthaya province kicked off the Songkran festival with a parade of 10 elephants from Wang Chang Ayutthaya Lae Paniad on Tuesday.

All the elephants were painted in colourful themes, including flowers, hearts and the message: “Songkran Ayutthaya” in Thai and English. Several tourists took the opportunity to splash water at the elephants.

The parade covered Ayutthaya’s City Pillar Shrine and Wat Phra Ram, aiming to attract Thai and foreign tourists to visit the province after three years of the Covid-19 pandemic. Continued …

Phuket to Generate at Least 4.5 Billion Baht During Songkran

More than 200,000 tourists will visit Phuket during the Songkran festival, which will generate at least 4.5 billion baht, says the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

The director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket office, Lertchai Wangtrakundee, said from April 13th to April 16 about 84% of hotel rooms have been booked. There will be 223,452 visitors, which will generate at least 4.5 billion baht. Continued …

Over 900 International Chartered Flights So Far This Year

The recovery of both the aviation and tourism industries this year has led to a big jump in international chartered flights, with the four-month total reaching 924, while action has been taken to reduce domestic airfares.

Sutthipong Kongpool, director-general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), said of the 924 chartered flights reaching Thailand from the beginning of this year, 253 arrived in January, 288 in February, 165 in March and 218 due in April. Continued …

Sustainable tourism gains traction in Thailand

In the deep waters off Phuket, hobby divers scour the sea to pick up garbage on holiday. Elsewhere, in one of Thailand’s many villages, visitors are engrossed in baking banana bread using locally sourced ingredients.

These activities are now in vogue, as the rise of sustainable tourism in the Land of Smiles mirrors a growing worldwide trend that is here to stay.

Research has shown that over 80% of global travelers feel that sustainable travel is important – and Thailand is doubling down on environmentally friendly trips. With tourism a key pillar of the Thai economy, the country is promoting sustainable tourism development in major cities and secondary cities. Continued …

The scented water that gives Songkran its unique fragrance

Songkran is famous for water splashing, but did you know the Thai New Year also carries a special fragrance? No Songkran celebration is complete without the scented water known as “Nam Ob Thai”.

The perfumed water will be much in demand this week as people seek a respite from the heat of April.

Scented water is considered a traditional Thai perfume. The scent can be mixed with water because it is alcohol-free, unlike western perfumes. Nam Ob Thai is made from pure water and is also affordable. Continued …

Discovering Banrai Thummachot, Hua Hin’s first coffee plantation

Nestled away in a corner of the Thap Thai subdistrict is Banrai Thummachot – Hua Hin’s first coffee plantation. Owned and operated by Prachak Thummachot, the plantation boasts a 2-rai plot of land dedicated to the growth of robusta coffee.

The plantation was established three years ago after Prachak witnessed a lull in the coffee market and sought help from local farmers to learn more about the coffee trade. Continued …

New Songkhla skywalk unveils southern beauty

Southern traditions hit a high point on Tuesday as visitors flocked to Wat Wang Yai in Songkhla’s Thepha district to witness the opening of the province’s latest tourism attraction.

Kuan Mali Skywalk was officially opened by a performance of Menora, a traditional dance drama with deep roots in the southern region. Menora, often shortened to Nora, is at least five centuries old and has been inscribed as intangible cultural heritage of southern Thailand by UNESCO. Continued …

Myanmar confirms deadly air strike as international outcry mounts

Myanmar’s ruling junta has confirmed that it carried out an air strike on a village in which dozens of people were reported killed, drawing condemnation from the United Nations and Western powers. Continued …

IMF issues growth warning as it lowers 2023 forecast

The International Monetary Fund slightly lowered its outlook for the global economy on Tuesday, while predicting that most countries will avoid a recession this year despite economic worries and geopolitical strains. Continued …

Study warns critical ocean current is nearing ‘collapse’

Due to global warming, a deep ocean current around Antarctica that has been relatively stable for thousands of years could head for “collapse” over the next few decades. Such a sudden shift could affect the planet’s climate and marine ecosystems for centuries to come. Continued …

What we know so far on the leaked Pentagon documents

It’s been less than a week since news of highly classified military documents on the Ukraine war surfaced, sending the Pentagon into full-speed damage control to assure allies and assess the scope of the leak. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs 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, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s News-March 22

  • Hua Hin school crosswalks get new paint job/
  • General Election Scheduled For May 14/
  • Thai firms unfazed by US banking woes/
  • Inflation and unemployment main worries of Thais/
  • Thai women of the year: Inspirational role models/
  • Pattaya Police Bust Alleged Indian Scammer of 3 billion baht/
  • Jolt in demand for EVs expected at Bangkok International Motor Show/
  • Top Thai execs discuss sustainability and path to achieving net zero/
  • Akara’s gold-mining operations back in full swing/
  • Tourism: Smoked bat, bacon and duck: Suvarnabhumi sniffer dogs kept busy by Chinese luggage/Bangkok business travel cost rises to $278 a day/Tourist’s bungee cord snaps in midair in Pattaya/Patong nightlife takes a hit after underage prostitution scandal/Russian Man Arrested on Pha-Ngan Island For 993-Day Overstay /New documentary spotlights overtourism’s detrimental impact on environment and wildlife/Phuket to host 1st Cannabis Cup this Saturday/
  • Thailand Experience: Elephants and elegance in Thailand/World’s happiest countries have been unveiled, Thailand ranks 60th/Thailand’s island getaways: wildlife, well-being and wonderful food/10 top destinations near Bangkok for summer and Songkran 2023/Bangkok: 7 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting/
  • International: Fed boss says banking stabilizing, US may intervene more if needed/Xi and Putin hail ‘new era’/Drought, floods and sickness: Key takeaways from UN’s water report/
  • Links: Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Hua Hin school crosswalks get new paint job

Officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan have launched a new campaign to reduce accidents at crosswalks or zebra crossings.

On Tuesday, Sathien Charoenruen, governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, as director of the Road Safety Center of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, chaired the opening ceremony of the road safety campaign.

The campaign seeks to improve pedestrian safety by repainting the markings of zebra crossings in numerous schools across the province. Continued …

General Election Scheduled For May 14

The Election Commission yesterday scheduled a general election for May 14, confirmed the polling agency’s Secretary-general Sawaeng Boonmee.

The May 14 election date has been set by the election commissioners after caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha dissolved the House of Representatives or only three days before its four-year term would otherwise have ended by schedule on the upcoming Friday.

The nationwide race to parliament will see a total of 500 partisan candidates elected as MPs, including 400 in constituency-based mode and 100 in party-listed mode. Continued …

Thai firms unfazed by US banking woes

The collapse of U.S. banks is expected to have only a minor impact on Thai companies and the overall Thai economy, according to the latest business survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

Based on a sample group of 600 Thai business owners nationwide, including those in the agricultural, industrial, service, and commercial sectors, the majority of business owners (73.5%) say the impact of the U.S. banking fallout on their businesses and the overall Thai economy will be marginal.

However, a majority of them (80%) still say there is a chance that Thailand’s international trade will feel an impact. Continued …

Inflation and unemployment main worries of Thais

The majority of people globally, including Thailand, are worried about economic recession, rising product prices and unemployment, global market research company Ipsos said on Tuesday.

The company cited its research “Ipsos Global Trend 2023″ conducted among more than 48,000 people in 50 countries. About 1,000 of the respondents were Thais.

“Recurring misfortune is the theme everyone faces this year because we have faced many crises, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war and inflation,” Ipsos said. Continued … 

Thai women of the year: Inspirational role models

To mark this year’s International Women’s Day, a number of extraordinary women from a wide range of fields who have inspired change in their communities through the pursuit of excellence have been named the Bangkok Post’s Women of the Year.

A series of in-depth profiles of these women, which began on March 8, will conclude today. The profiles can also be viewed on a specially designed microsite, which provides further background on their achievements and insights into their rise.

This week, we honor Nattamon Pisankitvanich, managing director of BNN Restaurant Group; Danupha “Milli” Kanateerakul, a rapper; Srikanya Yathip, secretary-general of the Government Pension Fund; Watanya Amatanon, chief product officer of Forth Vending Co.; and Patchara Pirapak, a chef. Continued …

Pattaya Police Bust Alleged Indian Scammer of 3 billion baht

An Indian man and his Thai wife have been taken into custody by Pattaya Police for allegedly scamming multiple American victims of over three billion baht.

Deputy National Police Chief Torsak Sukwimol, accompanied by a commando unit and officers from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), conducted a raid on a house in Pattaya’s Banglamung district yesterday. The raid was prompted by a notification from the United States Embassy, which stated that the dwelling was being used as a hideout by scammers.

After searching the house, Torsak said he has arrested an unidentified Indian national aged between 50-60 years old and his Thai wife aged around 40-50 years old. The two have been accused of duping numerous American citizens of over three billion baht in total damages and had fled to Pattaya, according to the U.S. Embassy. Continued …

Jolt in demand for EVs expected at Bangkok International Motor Show

Electric vehicle manufacturers from around the world are targeting Thailand as the Bangkok International Motor Show 2023 kicks off today at Challenger Hall, Impact Muang Thong Thani on the outskirts of Bangkok.

Dozens of manufacturers will unveil new models at the 44th motor show, which runs until April 2. Automaking giants like Nissan and Toyota will also be using the fair to gauge Thai demand amid their plans to open EV manufacturing plants in Thailand.

Demand could also be driven up by the fuel crisis and higher prices at the pump. EV purchases at the Thailand International Motor Expo in December accounted for 15% of total bookings. Continued …

Top Thai execs discuss sustainability and path to achieving net zero

As the planet struggles with warming temperatures and climate change, the concept of sustainability is fast becoming a keyword in most industries.

“We can never stop, sustainability is a marathon with no finish line,” said Gwenaelle Avice-Huet, chief strategy and sustainability officer at Schneider Electric.

She was speaking at the “Sustainability Talk” jointly hosted on Monday by Bangkok Biz News and Schneider Electric. Continued …

Akara’s gold-mining operations back in full swing

Akara Resources’ Chatree gold mine resumed operations on Tuesday, six years after being shut down, in a new 10-year concession.

The mine was shut down in January 2017 by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, then head of the ruling National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO).

Prayut invoked his absolute powers under Section 44 of the Constitution to halt operations, citing pollution and environmental damage caused by the mine. Continued …

Smoked bat, bacon and duck: Suvarnabhumi sniffer dogs kept busy by Chinese luggage

The canine unit at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Tuesday added smuggled duck to the menu of illicit meats it has sniffed out in the luggage of passengers from China.

The Department of Livestock Development’s (DLD) Quarantine and Inspection canine unit detected seven bags of fresh duck meat hidden in luggage at the airport’s arrivals terminal.

The bags weighed one kilogram each and carried an estimated 2,100 baht worth of meat. Continued …

Bangkok business travel cost rises to $278 a day

The cost of business travel to Bangkok has risen moderately by 4%, making it the 24th most expensive destination in Asia, while Singapore ranks second after Hong Kong this year, says ECA International (ECA).

According to the daily rates report by ECA, the typical daily cost of business travel to Bangkok has risen to US$278 a day. The marginal uptick was caused by a slower post-coronavirus-pandemic recovery in popular Thai cities.

Lee Quane, regional director, said cities such as Pattaya and Chiang Mai all witnessed small rates of growth in local currency terms in 2022, ranging from 1%-3%. Meanwhile, hotel rates have been suppressed by low demand compared to pre-pandemic levels. Continued …

Tourist’s bungee cord snaps in midair in Pattaya

The bungee cord of a tourist leaping from a 10-story-high platform in Thailand snapped in midair, sending him plunging into a lake in Pattaya.

The man from Hong Kong, known only as Mike, momentarily blacked out in the water, but regained consciousness and swam out of the lake with the help of the attraction’s employees. He was then taken to hospital.

The incident reportedly happened in February in the Changthai Thappraya Safari and Adventure Park located in the popular Thai tourist destination of Pattaya. Continued …

Patong nightlife takes a hit after underage prostitution scandal

Nightlife venues in Phuket’s popular Patong Beach area say a recent bar raid in which police allegedly found children employed as sex workers has hit them hard. According to a report, businesses have lost around 100 million baht since the raid on a foreign-operated bar.

The raid was carried out last Wednesday by a special task force unit from the Department of Provincial Administration. It’s understood two suspects were arrested at the bar on Bangla Road, where police discovered minors were being employed as sex workers.

Deputy National Police Chief Surachate Hakparn has since confirmed the venue was operated by a foreign national, named only as Ronny, who has reportedly fled to Laos. It’s understood he also operated nightlife venues in Bangkok and neighboring provinces in central Thailand. Continued …

Russian Man Arrested on Pha-Ngan Island For 993-Day Overstay

A 34-year-old Russian man was arrested on Pha-Ngan Island in Surat Thani for 993 days of overstaying his legal visa conditions.

Immigration officers said recently they have arrested a Russian national, 34. He was arrested at a resort on the island.

He is now at 993 days of overstaying his legal visa, according to police. Continued …

New documentary spotlights overtourism’s detrimental impact on environment and wildlife

An award-winning documentary launched in Australia – “The Last Tourist” – spotlights overtourism’s detrimental impact on the environment and wildlife, and delivers a candid exploration filmed across 16 countries featuring UN messenger of peace, Dr. Jane Goodall.

Overtourism describes destinations where hosts or guests, locals or visitors feel that there are too many visitors and that the quality of life in the area, or the quality of the experience has deteriorated unacceptably.

Video trailer 

“The Last Tourist” addresses the real impact of mass tourism as it traverses 16 different countries, magnifying its impact on the environment, wildlife, and vulnerable communities. With borders reopening around the world and post-pandemic travel resuming at a fast pace, it’s an apt time to reflect on what the pause in mass tourism taught us, and to reassess how travel can return in a more responsible and conscious way. Continued …

Phuket to host 1st Cannabis Cup this Saturday

Nine months after weed was decriminalized, popular tourist destination Phuket will light up this weekend with a cannabis event where the best buds will win.

The Phuket Cannabis Cup will go down Saturday at a hotel on Kata Beach. Hosted by the Phuket Cannabis Assn., the event will feature a joint-rolling race, showcase of buds throughout Thailand, panel discussions, and more.

There will be a competition to identify the best weed strains in four categories: indoor hybrid, indoor sativa, indoor indica, and greenhouse strains. They will be judged by eight weed veterans and long-time advocates. Continued …

Elephants and elegance in Thailand

Norpeo happily allows me to slather her with handful after handful of silky-smooth river mud. And she doesn’t mind it when I follow her into the crystal-clear waters of the River Kwai to splash and scrub the mud off with a big kitchen broom.

Maybe she’s such a trusting friend because earlier I hand-fed her watermelons and bananas as she winked at me and caressed my arm with her nimble trunk.

As you may have deduced by now, Norpeo is an elephant. Not just any elephant, but a pregnant pachyderm rescued from a life of having to give tourists rides on her back as her handler kept her in line with a hook. Continued …

World’s happiest countries have been unveiled, Thailand ranks 60th

The annual UN-sponsored happiness index for the happiest countries in the world was unveiled on Monday. For the sixth year running, Finland was named the world’s happiest country.

Thailand was ranked 60th.

With thousands of lakes and near endless forests, the Nordic country is known for its extensive welfare system, high trust in authorities and low levels of inequality among its 5.5 million inhabitants. Continued …

Thailand’s island getaways: wildlife, well-being and wonderful food

Behind me lies a lake of lotus – an emerald field of lily pads that begrudgingly part for a small wooden boat captained by a young boy. One of its great pink floating flowers has made its way from the water onto the table in front of me, in the most beautiful meal I’ve ever beheld. Two ample plates hold a veritable rainbow of fresh, crisp, culinary mysteries in colors that seem far from natural.

Yet, the majority of it has been grown and picked here at The Nature cafe’s garden on the Thai island of Koh Samui. The cafe’s signature miang-bua sharing platter holds a whole lotus, whose magenta petals are plucked off and wrapped around a mix of roasted coconut, cashew, shrimp, shallots, ginger, lime, palate-pounding chilli, taling bling fruit and sweet nam miang sauce. Every mouthful zings with bright, brilliant flavor.

To its side is khao-yum, a dish full of flowers, betel leaves, beans, nam bu du fish sauce and vibrant blue butterfly pea rice that has everyone under the age of 40 itching to Instagram it. The most impressive part is that, for once, the food actually tastes as good as it looks. Continued …

10 top destinations near Bangkok for summer and Songkran 2023

As the summer season and the Songkran Festival approach Thailand next month, here are 10 top destinations to visit in April to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a great water fight. The list includes a wide range of interesting places from waterfalls, seas, mountains, and spectacular natural scenery.

With Songkran Festival set to be held from April 13 to 15, all the visitors can also participate in water fights and various Songkran celebrations to celebrate the Thai New Year and the annual long holiday.

These destinations are easy to travel to, close to Bangkok, and convenient whether you’re planning for a one-day trip or a longer vacation. Continued …

Bangkok: 7 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting

While many travelers only pass through Bangkok when in transit, the city itself is well worth a proper visit.

Bangkok is a whirlwind for the senses and a far cry from the relaxing islands and beaches that so many tourists seek out in Thailand.

But visitors who embrace the hustle and bustle of the city will be rewarded with a beautiful experience. With incredible food, welcoming people, and vibrant culture, Bangkok is just waiting to be explored. Continued …

Fed boss says banking stabilizing, US may intervene more if needed

The United States banking sector is “stabilizing” after the recent failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank rattled the industry, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told a lenders’ conference Tuesday, as leaders seek to calm global worries. Continued …

Xi and Putin hail ‘new era’

After two days of talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin has pledged even closer ties with Russia’s most powerful backer and hailed Beijing’s proposals for ending his war in Ukraine. Continued …

Drought, floods and sickness: Key takeaways from UN’s water report

Billions of people experience water-related issues on a daily basis – from contaminated drinking water, to droughts and floods – with a UN report warning Tuesday that the risk of a global crisis is “imminent.” Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

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

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs 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-Chiang Mai flight schedules

 

90-day online reporting