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AGT sensation Nene says fame came too fast

Inside Thailand’s animal rescue network saving strays

Trump restarts Iran hostilities and demands 20% Hormuz fee

US-Iran strikes: latest developments

It’s a shame the US and Iran can’t both lose

Gold tumbles below $4,000 as oil surge fuels rate fears

B40-meal plan on hold after public backlash

BOT warns weak investment is eroding Thailand’s growth

Thailand Approves $3.1 Billion Investment for Seven Data Centers

Thai businesses urged to build resilience as global order shifts

Local e-marketplace players enter fray

Visa-free period halved, many countries dropped

Tourism in ‘Transformation’ as the Ministry pivots to a quality agenda and away from a focus on numbers

TAT sets out 2027 tourism strategy with B2.9-trillion revenue goal

‘Joy’ brings joy to lost foreigners on Koh Tao

Agency pursues growth through niche tourism

Thailand’s Tattoo Tourism Continues to Evolve as International Travelers Prioritize Quality

Largest local solar roof opens in Korat

Thai Union removes more than 8 metric tons of ocean-bound waste

Content fight shapes Thailand’s EV future

Thailand’s industrial green shift gains momentum with Seagate solar mega project

Interra Resources Firm to Install Rooftop Solar Power System at Thai School

EU plans tougher social media limits for children under 13

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Saturday’s news-April 11

April 11, 2026 Hua Hin Expat News

Thailand Cuts Fuel Prices/What Is Songkran?/Songkran Thailand: A Timeless Tradition/Songkran homecoming rush moves to trains/Songkran feels a little bit different/Songkran heat to grip Thailand

THE IRAN WAR: Five things to know about the talks/Concerns over LNG supplies/Oil price warning/Thai export pain to continue
ECONOMY: Economic Recovery Hinges on Structural Reforms/7 urgent relief measures/Thailand closer to stagflation/Major investment reform/Girl collects bottles to support family/Costs sink famed plastic factory
TOURISM: Meningococcal jab advised
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Elephants join in Songkran festivities/Ratahcaburi 2,000-kilogram tom yum goong/Phuket Water Festival Returns/Thailand’s top resort destinations
CLIMATE THAILAND: Lighting up a Chiang Mai village/Measures to spur plastic recycling/What will happen to the spent EV batteries?
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS

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Thailand Cuts Fuel Prices Before Songkran Nationwide

Fuel prices across Thailand will fall from today, with diesel dropping by 4 baht to 44.4 baht per liter and benzine also reduced, providing immediate relief ahead of the Songkran holiday period.

Gasohol 95 will decrease by 1 baht to 42.95 baht per liter, while gasohol 91 will also fall by 1 baht to 42.58 baht per liter. The price adjustments are expected to ease travel costs during one of the country’s busiest holiday seasons. Continued …

What Is Songkran, the Thai New Year Festival, and Where to Enjoy It

Songkran might be best known as Thailand’s ultimate splash fest, luring sun-chasers and party lovers to the Land of Smiles each year. But behind the water guns and street-side chaos lies something deeper. This is Thai New Year, after all, wrapped in tradition, meaning, and a whole lot of heart.

So, yes, come for the splash. Stay for the culture. Because Songkran is not just a water fight, it is a celebration steeped in heritage, beauty, and soul. Continued …

Songkran Thailand: A Timeless Tradition of Splashing Through Generations

Songkran is deeply rooted in family traditions, serving as a vibrant celebration of joy and connection. This iconic water festival, celebrated in Thailand every April, transforms cities into living classrooms of shared experiences and lasting memories. Beyond the water fights, Songkran fosters a deeper sense of togetherness among families, strengthening bonds across generations.

Exploring beyond the capital, Chiang Mai offers spiritual experiences with ceremonies at ancient temples, promoting family teamwork and unity. In Pattaya, the lively Wan Lai festival showcases water-themed activities perfect for families seeking fun in the sun. Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins offer a unique cultural backdrop, transforming Songkran into a celebration of renewal, unity, and shared family joy. Continued …

Songkran homecoming rush moves to trains as fuel prices skyrocket

Due to the surge in fuel prices, many travelers are booking trains to their hometowns ahead of the Songkran holiday. Passenger numbers at Buri Ram Railway Station rose by 30% compared to previous festival periods.

Advance train bookings were sold out, while long queues for tickets were spotted at the station this morning, as additional bogies and services were added to meet the surge in demand. Continued …

This year, Songkran feels a little bit different

As Thais gear up for the upcoming Songkran holiday, I can’t help but notice how this year’s highly anticipated days off and time off work have a bit more nuance to them than usual. Granted, people are still discussing rest, relaxation and how they will fully utilize their time away from the office, while the jetset crowd will undoubtedly make full use of flying overseas and avoiding Middle Eastern routes, but something feels a bit different this year.

Look a little closer and read between the lines. The roads may be a little quieter this time, hotel bookings across provinces may be thinner, and, right in the heart of Bangkok, electricity bills and the cost of living have crept up. People are still going out and about, living their lives, but households are quietly weighing what’s “nice to have” versus essentials. Continued …

Songkran heat to grip Thailand nationwide through April 16

The Thai Meteorological Department has forecast weather conditions for April 11-16, saying Thailand will generally see hot to very hot weather, with hazy conditions during the day and thunderstorms in some areas.

This is due to a heat low covering upper Thailand, while weak southwesterly winds are prevailing over the country. Then, on April 16, a high-pressure system or cold air mass from China will spread over the South China Sea, strengthening southeasterly and southerly winds over the lower northeast and the east. At the same time, upper Thailand will remain hot to very hot, bringing thunderstorms, gusty winds, and isolated hail to some areas. Continued …

Five things to know about the planned Iran-US talks in Islamabad

Pakistan is due to host talks between Iran and the United States in a bid to turn a fragile two-week ceasefire into a lasting end to a war that has roiled global energy markets. Here are five things to know about the Islamabad talks.

On Feb. 28, the US and Israel launched deadly coordinated strikes that killed supreme leader Ali Khamenei and struck Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure. More than 3,000 people were killed in Iran in five weeks, according to Iranian media and US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). Continued …

Gulf allays concerns over LNG supplies

Natural gas remains a cornerstone of global power generation despite mounting concerns over liquefied natural gas (LNG) shortages linked to Middle East tensions, according to Gulf Developmentc, Thailand’s largest energy company by market value and a major telecoms operator.

Spot LNG prices have swung sharply in recent weeks as supply routes from Qatar – the world’s top LNG producer – were disrupted by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing Israel–US conflict with Iran. Continued …

Oil price warning: Cheap era over for at least two years

Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has rejected calls for an excise tax cut on refined oil products, saying that such a move would affect medical services and warning that the era of cheap oil prices is over, at least for the next two years, due to damage inflicted on oil infrastructure in the Middle East.

During a debate in parliament last night, he explained that an excise tax reduction is similar to using the Oil Fuel Fund to subsidize oil prices to keep them unrealistically low, thereby cushioning the impact on consumers. Continued …

Thai export pain set to continue despite Mideast truce

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz with fee collection as proposed by Iran, together with high oil prices, is dampening the prospects for Thai exports and may push overseas shipments into contraction this year, economists say.

Poonyawat Sreesing, senior economist at the SCB Economic Intelligence Center (SCB EIC), said the conflict in the Middle East has caused supply chain disruptions, affecting both exports and imports. Continued …

Thailand’s Economic Recovery Hinges on Structural Reforms

Thailand’s newly formed government confronts a challenging economic landscape marked by high household debt, inefficient investments, and restrictive trade policies. Bold reforms are essential to draw in future-focused industries and ensure sustainable growth.

Without structural reforms beyond stimulus, Thailand risks missing out on global supply chain shifts and future industrial investment, leaving it economically stagnant despite short-term export gains. The Commerce Ministry has announced plans to remove 10 service sectors — from software development to petroleum exploration — from the restricted list, which is a step in the right direction. Continued …

7 urgent relief measures set for Cabinet approval before Songkran

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s Cabinet is set to approve seven urgent relief measures aimed at easing the cost of living and softening the impact of high energy prices, as the new government moves into full executive authority after completing its policy statement to Parliament.

The parliamentary debate concluded yesterday, clearing the way for Anutin’s administration to begin formal implementation of its program. Thai media reported that the prime minister then called a special Cabinet meeting for today to fast-track immediate relief ahead of the Songkran holiday. Continued …

Oil shock pushes Thailand closer to stagflation danger zone

Thailand has not yet entered full-blown stagflation, but the country is moving closer to a point where weak growth and rising prices could collide in a far more damaging way.

The warning signs have grown clearer as the conflict in the Middle East stretches beyond a month, driving crude oil prices higher and forcing a rethink of Thailand’s economic outlook for 2026. What had once looked like a year of modest growth is now being overshadowed by the risk of slower expansion, firmer inflation, and deeper pressure on consumers and businesses. Continued …

Thailand targets major investment reform

Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has recently stated that the current energy crisis could be Thailand’s last opportunity to restructure its economy and ensure long-term survival.

The Thai economy is imbalanced, relying heavily on exports and services such as tourism, which together account for roughly 70% of GDP. Meanwhile, domestic investment aimed at strengthening the country’s production structure and keeping pace with global changes remains insufficient, he noted. Continued …

15-year-old girl collects bottles to support family

A 15-year-old student who was seen collecting plastic bottles to help support her family has received assistance after her story went viral on social media, highlighting her efforts to care for her paralyzed father while continuing her studies.

The case came to public attention after a Facebook page posted images of the girl wearing her school uniform while collecting recyclable waste from roadside bins, as well as caring for her father, who is unable to walk due to a spinal injury. Continued …

Soaring costs sink famed plastic factory after 50 years

A major Thai manufacturer of plastic tanks and boats is set to close down after more than 50 years in business, as soaring costs and weakening demand finally pushed the company beyond its limit.

On Thursday, Sudjai Jirayapakorn, chairman of Comos Corp., announced that the business would cease operations by the end of April, bringing to a close a company that had built its name over decades but could no longer withstand the mounting economic pressure. Continued …

Meningococcal jab advised for travelers

The Department of Medical Services recommends that anyone planning to visit countries where Meningococcal disease is prevalent be vaccinated first to prevent infection. Dr. Sakan Bunnag, the department’s deputy chief, said the disease is caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. It leads to meningitis and spinal cord infection, he said.

The disease can be found in all age groups, but mostly among young children and adolescents aged one month to 15 years, he said. It can be transmitted via close physical contact, Dr Sakan said, adding the throat is a source of bacterial accumulation. It is not a seasonal disease, as there are major outbreaks from time to time, he said. Continued …

Elephants join in Songkran festivities in Ayutthaya

Elephants splashed water, painted, and danced at Ayutthaya’s city pillar shrine yesterday to mark the start of Songkran, the 2026 Thai New Year. The event, co-organized by Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and the provincial municipality, was held to preserve and promote Thai culture and to boost tourism. Video …

Ratahcaburi goes big with 2,000-kilogram tom yum goong

A giant pot of tom yum goong weighing around 2,000 kilograms was cooked at the Bang Phae shrimp and local products festival on Thursday, drawing large crowds of Thai and foreign visitors. Instead of the usual 600 liters of water, organizers used juice from 2,000 aromatic coconuts. Nearly 2,000 kilograms of giant freshwater prawns from Ratchaburi were added, along with premium limes and traditional ingredients, including galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, mushrooms, tomatoes, chillies, and fish sauce. The total cost of the dish was estimated at 100,000 baht. (khaosodenglish.com)

Phuket Water Festival Returns for Its 11th Year This Songkran

Phuket’s Songkran celebrations have long stood apart from the rest of Thailand’s travel experiences — not merely for the scale of the water fights, but for the particular alchemy of beach culture, Sino-Portuguese heritage, and deep Buddhist tradition that gives the island its distinct New Year character.

In Phuket, lively battles at Patong draw the young and adventurous, while quieter, more reflective zones at Kata and Karon let families and older visitors join in safely — a rare festival that genuinely offers something for everyone. Continued …

An insider’s guide to Thailand’s top resort destinations

Need some inspiration for your next vacation? Consider a short getaway to nearby Thailand, which is brimming with some of the region’s most beautiful and luxurious resort destinations. Here’s what to see and do in the idyllic enclaves of Hua Hin, Krabi, Phuket, Samui, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai, and the best hotels to stay at.

Hua Hin lies in the middle of what the Thai government is promoting as the “Thai Riviera”, a stretch of coastline between Phetchaburi in the north and Chumphon in the south patronized and beloved by Thai royalty since the turn of the last century. Prince Krom Phra Naresworarit was the first member of the royal family to build a group of palaces at Ban Laem Hin, called Sukaves, and gave the beach next to his palace the name “Hua Hin”. Continued …

Lighting up a Chiang Mai village with solar-powered batteries

Huay Nam Rin village is off the grid. Perched in the mountains about 45 kilometers from Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, the small Hmong farming community has long lived with minimal electricity. What little power it has comes from a handful of diesel generators and repurposed car batteries, charged with second-hand solar cells.

Electricity is therefore used sparingly. The repurposed car batteries can only power one appliance at a time; they also pose a safety risk. “The batteries are old; they can only go for one or two hours at most,” said village chief Kriangkai Suya. “During the day, we can’t use them for things such as cooking, otherwise we won’t have light at night.” Continued …

Measures aim to spur plastic recycling

Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa has announced urgent measures to accelerate plastic recycling in Thailand, as the country grapples with a shortage of plastics caused by the ongoing Israel–US conflict with Iran. The initiative, he said, is not only aimed at easing immediate supply pressures but also at strengthening long-term environmental protection.

The war in the Middle East has disrupted global packaging supply chains, driving up the price of virgin plastic pellets by more than 30%-40% since late February. Continued …

As Thailand bets on EVs, what will happen to the spent batteries?

In 2020, Thai authorities announced that they would endeavour to make Thailand a regional electric vehicle (EV) hub in just five years. True enough, by 2025, Chinese EV manufacturing companies had made the country a solid base.

This was epitomized by BYD opening a 948,000-square-meter plant in Rayong in July 2024, boasting an annual production capacity of 150,000 vehicles. Other Chinese brands – including Great Wall Motor, SAIC Motor, and Changan Automobile – have all found a home for manufacturing in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor. Continued …

German Cybercrime Suspect Arrested in Bangkok Condo Raid – Continued …
Three Malaysians Arrested With 97kg of Meth on train in Khon Kaen – Continued …

Artemis II Crew Return Safely to Earth After Historic Lunar Flyby

Humanity took a giant leap closer to the lunar surface last evening as the Artemis II Orion spacecraft, Integrity, successfully splashed down in the Pacific Ocean. The safe return of the four-person crew marks the conclusion of a historic 10-day mission and the first time humans have journeyed to the vicinity of the Moon in over half a century. Continued …

New 24/7 Pet Channel targets China’s growing pet market

Tencent has unveiled a new streaming package designed specifically for pets and pet lovers, offering round-the-clock programming tailored to animals such as dogs, cats and other household companions. The service, Pet TV, has been introduced by Tencent Video as part of the company’s push into niche entertainment segments. The channel features a continuous lineup of content aimed at engaging pets while their owners are away from home. Continued …

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Friday’s news-Dec 26

December 26, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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German man murdered in PKK/Extended hours for beach vendors rejected/Bangkok Chokes: Residents Urged to Mask Up/Monsoon to drench southern provinces
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: No letup in Cambodian shelling/Ninth Thai soldier loses leg/Cambodia rejects ceasefire terms/Cambodia PM says he wants peace/Trip.com suspends tourism partnership with Cambodia
ECONOMY: Thailand as ASEAN’s Premier Logistics Hub/Electronics lead export growth/Foreign investment hits 331-billion baht/New business registrations down
TOURISM: Consumer Caution Limits New Year Travel/TAT Warns of Revenue Drop/Year-End Travel Nears Pre-Covid Levels/TAT to unveil Lisa’s ambassador campaign/UFO festival on tourism calendar
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: How to Choose the Right Rehab Center/Instant noodles, the poverty label/The craft traditions of the north
CLIMATE THAILAND: Asia-Pacific’s energy transition
FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

German man murdered in Prachuap Khiri Khan, wife confesses

Police uncovered a murder plot involving a Thai woman and her male employee who killed a German man and left his body inside a house in Prachuap Khiri Khan province for almost a month before pretending innocence and notifying police about the death.

The case came to light on Dec. 1 when the 45-year-old Thai woman, Nitthaya, contacted officers from Khlong Wan Police Station to report a foul smell coming from a house in the Huay Sai subdistrict. She told police that she entered the property and found the body of her German husband, 65-year-old Mark, inside. Continued …

Extended hours for beach vendors rejected

A request to extend operating hours for Hua Hin beach vendors has been rejected, with local authorities instructing vendors to continue operating under existing regulations. The decision was made at a meeting of the Hua Hin Beach Management Committee on Tuesday.

The meeting was convened following a formal request from all 22 licensed beach vendors seeking permission to extend their operating hours for the sale of food and beverages into the evening, from 6.30 pm until midnight. Continued …

Bangkok Chokes: Residents Urged to Mask Up as Pollution Soars

Bangkok is grappling with alarming levels of PM2.5 pollution, prompting city officials to advise residents to wear protective masks and limit outdoor activities. Several districts reported higher pollution levels, some reaching the orange category, which can impact health.

The Bangkok Air Quality Information Center documented PM2.5 levels at 34.7 µg/m³ citywide at 7am today. This exceeds the safe standard of 37.5 µg/m³, with certain districts experiencing elevated readings. Continued …

Strong monsoon to drench six southern provinces

Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned that the stre ast monsoon will bring more rain to the lower south, with heavy downpours forecast in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat.

Residents in the lower south were urged to watch for heavy rainfall and accumulated rain that could trigger flash floods and runoff, especially on mountain slopes near waterways and in low-lying areas. Continued …

No letup in Cambodian shelling of Thai civilian areas, army says

Cambodia continues to fire heavy weapons at Thai civilian areas despite repeated protests by Thailand in international forums, while spreading false accusations about Thailand through its embassies, Thai authorities said yesterday.

Col. Kannanat Pornnipatkul, assistant spokeswoman for the Royal Thai Army, said Cambodia fired about 40 BM-21 rockets into Ban Klong Pang village in Ta Phraya district of Sa Kaeo province at 5 am yesterday. Continued …

Ninth Thai soldier loses leg from landmine in Surin

Two Thai soldiers were injured after stepping on landmines, one losing his leg, near the Thai-captured Ta Kwai temple in the northeastern province of Surin yesterday afternoon.

The 2nd Army Area said the incident occurred near the temple in Phanom Dong Rak district. The location had been captured by the Thai troops on Dec. 16. Continued …

Cambodia still rejects Thai ceasefire terms

The secretary-level meeting of the Thailand–Cambodia General Border Committee (GBC) entered its third day at the Ban Phakkad permanent border checkpoint, Khlong Yai subdistrict, Pong Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi.

Attention is on whether Cambodia will accept Thailand’s three proposals:

Cambodia must declare a ceasefire first.
The ceasefire must be genuine and continuous.
Cambodia must cooperate seriously and in good faith on demining operations. Continued …

Cambodia PM says he told US he wants peace and is seeking Thai ceasefire

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said he spoke by phone with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the situation along the Cambodia-Thailand border, calling for an immediate ceasefire and implementation of what he described as a peace agreement reached in Kuala Lumpur.

Hun Manet said: “On the night of Dec. 25, 2025, I had a telephone discussion with US Secretary of State, His Excellency Marco Rubio, to discuss developments along the Cambodia-Thai border in order to push for an immediate ceasefire and the implementation of a peace deal to achieve lasting peace for Cambodia and Thailand. Continued …

Trip.com suspends tourism partnership with Cambodia amid border clashes, cyber concerns

Trip.com Group, the biggest online travel agency in China, said yesterday that its partnership with Cambodia’s tourism authority was suspended, in a move to address the Chinese public’s heightened sensitivity over safety in the Southeast Asian country.

The company, which operates the Ctrip and Qunar sites in mainland China, said the collaboration – originally scheduled to run from September 2025 to March 2026 – “had been suspended due to recent safety alerts issued by the Chinese embassy in Cambodia”. Continued …

Thailand Emerges as ASEAN’s Premier Logistics Hub Amid Global Supply Chain Realignment

Thailand is experiencing a transformation in its logistics landscape, emerging as Southeast Asia’s pre-eminent distribution hub as global supply chains undergo their most significant reconfiguration in decades.

Driven by the “China + N” diversification strategy and accelerating intra-regional trade, the kingdom finds itself at the epicenter of a logistics boom that is reshaping the economic geography of Asia-Pacific. Continued …

Electronics lead export growth of 7% in November

The Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO reported that exports in November were worth US$27.445 billion, expanding for a 17th consecutive month at 7.1%. Excluding oil-related products, gold and military supplies, exports rose 11.8%. Imports totaled US$30.172 billion, up 17.6%, resulting in a trade deficit of US$2.726 billion.

Nantapong Chiralerspong, director of the TPSO, said exports were mainly supported by electronics shipments, driven by the upcycle in computers and growth in modern technologies, including AI, keeping industrial exports at a high growth rate. Continued …

Foreign investment hits 331-billion baht in 11 months

Foreign investment in Thailand rose in both volume and value in the first 11 months of 2025, with total approved investment reaching 331.162 billion baht, up 45% year on year, according to the Department of Business Development (DBD).

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the DBD under the Commerce Ministry, said approvals for foreign nationals to operate businesses in Thailand under the Foreign Business Act, B.E. 2542 (1999) — limited to businesses required to obtain permission — in November 2025 totaled 104 cases. Continued …

Economic slowdown drags new business registrations down 22% in November

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Department of Business Development (DBD) under the Ministry of Commerce, said Thailand recorded 5,554 new business registrations in November. That was down 22% month-on-month from 7,165 in October 2025, a fall of 1,611. Compared with November 2024 (6,266), registrations were down 11%, or 712.

Total registered capital stood at 14.86-billion baht in November. This was down 32% month-on-month from 21.78-billion baht in October, a decline of 6.92-billion baht, and down 39% year-on-year from 24.22-billion baht in November 2024, a fall of 9.36-billion baht. Continued …

Consumer Caution Limits New Year Travel and Spending in Thailand

More than 80% of Thais remain undecided or have no plans to travel during the New Year holiday period, reflecting continued caution amid economic uncertainty, according to a survey released by a Thai business research center.

Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the Universiy of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and chairman of its Center for Economic and Business Forecasting, said the survey showed subdued sentiment ahead of the New Year 2026 period. Continued …

TAT Warns of Revenue Drop Amid Border Conflict and Flooding

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects a significant decline in New Year holiday revenue, forecasting a 2%-9% decline compared to last year. Border tensions and severe flooding affecting southern provinces have contributed to this decrease in tourist numbers. However, a robust local currency continues to buoy outbound travel.

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the governor of TAT, has stated that they anticipate tourism receipts to reach 70-76.5 billion baht for the New Year, a decrease from the previous year. He also expects a decline in foreign visitor numbers, with an estimated 1.4-1.5 million arrivals between Dec. 20 and Jan. 1. Recent natural disasters and border issues have led to a reduction in travel from Malaysia and other key markets. Continued …

66 Flights Added as Year-End Travel Nears Pre-Covid Levels

In anticipation of a surge in air travel this year-end, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has requested airlines to arrange 66 additional flights from Dec. 27 to Jan. 4. This initiative will provide an extra 11,312 seats. Additionally, airlines will offer 30% discounts on 202 flights across 11 routes.

CAAT Director-General Manat Chavanaprayoon announced the additional flights and discounted fares to manage the expected increase in passenger numbers during the festive season. The extra flights will cover six major routes, including Bangkok to Krabi, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Monitoring has shown a steady rise in passenger numbers, nearing pre-Covid levels, with almost 479,979 travelers reported as of Dec. 21. Continued …

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TAT to unveil Lisa’s Amazing Thailand Ambassador campaign in January

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said the agency is pressing ahead with efforts to keep Thailand among the world’s leading travel destinations, as it prepares to roll out a new advertising campaign featuring Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal as the country’s “Amazing Thailand Ambassador”.

TAT says Lisa’s global influence will not only inspire fans but also help elevate Thailand’s appeal as a destination travelers are eager to visit, she said. The upcoming campaign forms part of the broader “Amazing Thailand” brand communication strategy, aimed at strengthening the country’s tourism and cultural image, while building on the so-called “Lisa effect” as a creative force that attracts international attention. Continued …

UFO festival on Thailand tourism calendar in 2026

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced events to increase spending during the year-end and the first quarter next year, starting with “Amazing Thailand” Ambassador Lisa and a UFO festival, in a bid to increase international arrivals by at least 10% in 2026.

“In 2026, Thailand must win back tourists by rebuilding trust via safety measures and memorable experiences,” said TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool. Continued …

How to Choose the Right Rehab Center in Thailand

Deciding to seek help for substance abuse is one of the most courageous steps anyone can take. For those considering treatment in Thailand, the country has emerged as a leading destination for addiction recovery, offering world-class facilities, affordable care, and a serene environment conducive to healing.

Before beginning your search for a rehab center, it’s essential to assess your specific treatment requirements. Different facilities specialize in various types of addiction, whether it’s alcohol, opioids, methamphetamine, or behavioral addictions. Some centers focus on specific demographics, such as executives, young adults, or individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. Continued …

Instant noodles, the poverty label

Mama, just a simple name, yet it resonates like a heartbeat in Thailand, where these instant noodles have woven themselves into the very fabric of daily life for over 50 years.

More than just a quick meal, Mama stands as a symbol of resilience, the go-to comfort food that has accompanied countless Thais through every hardship, from economic crises to personal trials. Continued …

Living Lanna: the craft traditions of the north

The cultural heart of the former Lanna kingdom, Chiang Mai enters its high season during the winter months, when cooler temperatures and clearer skies draw visitors to northern Thailand.

But beyond its scenic mountain setting and relaxed seasonal atmosphere, the former Lanna capital is being recognized for something less transient: a deeply rooted culture of craft that remains embedded in everyday life. Continued …

Asia-Pacific’s role in the global energy transition

The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects “rapid expansion” in renewable energy in Southeast Asia – and APAC more broadly – in the years ahead, driven by a surge in electricity demand, as countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia continue to increase their participation in global goods and services value chains.

One of the biggest sources of new electricity demand will come from the construction of data centers, which the accounting firm KPMG projects will see a compound annual growth rate of 13.1% between 2025 and 2030, making APAC the fastest-growing region in the world. Continued …

Russian Man Jailed for Son’s Speedboat Murder – Continued …
German Tourists Arrested Over Hotel Vandalism in Chiang Mai – Continued …
Foreign passenger attacks Thai Bolt rider and flees with motorcycle – Continued …

World loses Spain’s Trasllambrión glacier for good

Spain’s Trasllambrión glacier — the last su glacier in the province of León — has effectively disappeared, bringing to an end more than 700 years of near-continuous ice in the Picos de Europa. Researchers confirmed its “death” in October, describing the loss as a striking, visible consequence of a rapidly warming climate. Continued …

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Thursday’s news-May 15

May 15, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Hua Hin plans 22-kilometer road/New law expands alcohol sales/International Schools Thrive/Architects deny changing plans/Mother offers to sell organs/Rubber serum shows potential in Alzheimer’s/Free flu shot/Pattaya clamps down on parking/ECONOMY: Restaurant industry faces crisis/Thailand pitches trade proposals/Handout scheme in question/Trade talks are likely to fail/Bank Flags Investment Slump/National e-marketplace/Frog farming a boon in Isan/TOURISM: Thai hotels see 30% drop in Chinese tourists/Double whammy from tariffs/Tourism groups prepare proposals/Foreign beggar gang busted/Trang Airport progress/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Pad Thai recognized again/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s Floating Hydro-Solar Farm/EV maker to ramp up Thailand presence/EVs to displace 5 million barrels of oil/Illegally imported electronic waste/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin plans 22-kilometer parallel road to rail line

New law expands venues selling alcohol despite Buddhist fest bans

The government is set to widen the scope of venues permitted to sell alcoholic beverages daily, following the enactment of a new law last week. This legislation allows five categories of venues to sell alcohol.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong stated that the new law, announced in the Royal Gazette on May 9 and effective from May 10, continues the prohibition of alcohol sales during Buddhist festivals such as Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asanha Bucha, and the start and end of Buddhist Lent. Continued …

International Schools Thrive Despite Challenges in Thai Education System

Parents in Thailand increasingly choose international education over traditional curriculum despite slower growth and fewer new school openings, says Kasikorn Research Center. Dr. Temyot Pandajphong of Denla School points out that today, parents focus on skills, educational quality, and the environment for their children.

According to the Kasikorn Research Center, the international school sector in Thailand is expected to grow by 9.7% by 2025, generating revenues of 95 billion baht. Although growth has slowed compared to last year (13.1%), mainly due to fewer new schools opening, only eight this year, five fewer than last year, the sector remains robust. Continued …

Architects deny changing plans at doomed tower

An architectural firm involved in the construction of the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) headquarters has denied making any revisions to the original design, amid an ongoing parliamentary investigation into the tragedy.

Representatives of Forum Architect Co. and Meinhardt (Thailand) appeared before the House Committee on Corruption Prevention and Suppression to explain their roles in the project. Continued …

Desperate Thai mother offers to sell organs to keep son alive

A Thai mother took to social media in a desperate attempt to sell her organs to raise funds to care for her one-year-old son and to seek a better home for the young boy.

The 33-year-old woman from the Isaan province of Sisaket initially shared photos of her son on Facebook to find an adoptive family. In her post, she wrote: “Anyone interested in adopting a young boy? I’m unable to care for him. He hasn’t had any milk to drink for three days already. I’m suffering from multiple illnesses and don’t know how much longer I can stay with my son.” Continued …

Innovative Thai rubber serum shows potential in combating Alzheimer’s

Thai researchers have made an advancement by developing a rubber serum for medical use, showing potential in combating Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, osteoporosis, and diabetes.

The innovation was introduced by the Center for Research and Development of Rubber Serum Biotechnology (CERB) at Prince of Songkla University. Thanawat Pitakpornpreecha, a researcher at the center, explained that the idea stemmed from the observation that rubber trees produce a wide range of bioactive compounds to sustain themselves despite being tapped daily. Continued …

Thailand offers free flu shot to 7 high-risk groups nationwide

The Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the National Health Security Office (NHSO), is now offering free influenza vaccinations to seven high-risk groups at all medical facilities nationwide until Aug. 31. The initiative aims to prevent the spread of seasonal influenza.

The government, through the NHSO, has procured vaccines based on the latest World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations to combat circulating flu strains. A total of 4.57 million doses have been prepared and distributed across healthcare service units. The vaccines protect against three strains of the influenza virus: A (H1N1), A (H3N2), and B (Victoria lineage). Continued …

Pattaya clamps down on parking space hogs

It’s the end of the road for parking space hogs in Pattaya, as city officials crack down on locals and businesses reserving public roads with cones, chains, and bins like it’s their private driveway.

Pattaya’s war on illegal space-grabbing has kicked into high gear, with municipal officers hitting the streets to clear cones, barriers, and random clutter dumped on public roads by individuals and businesses trying to bag exclusive parking. Continued …

Restaurant industry faces crisis as domestic spending drops, Chinese tourists vanish

Restaurant owners are struggling to survive amid declining domestic spending and a sharp drop in Chinese tourist arrivals. Thailand’s economic recovery appears sluggish and uncertain. With consumer purchasing power dwindling and costs rising, many food businesses are bracing for closures.

Chinese tourists — once a key customer base — have nearly disappeared. Meanwhile, Russian and Middle Eastern tourists are spending more cautiously. Major food chains have responded by diversifying and lowering prices, but many are still battling daily increases in operating costs, with some reporting food cost burdens as high as 40%. Continued …

Thailand pitches trade proposals to US

Proposals that Thailand has submitted to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), outline Thailand’s willingness to import energy products, petrochemicals, aircraft, fruit, and animal feed from the United States, says Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira.

More imports of U.S. goods are one element of a five-part strategy intended to improve the trade balance between the two countries. Reducing Thailand’s high trade surplus, which was $45 billion last year, is viewed as a key to persuading Washington not to impose a threatened 36% tariff on imports from Thailand. Continued …

Tariffs put fate of handout scheme in question

The fate of the third phase of the government’s flagship digital wallet scheme is hanging in the balance in light of the impact of U.S. tariffs on the Thai economy.

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira confirmed on Wednesday that the 10,000-baht handout program is under review, as the government must reconsider its priorities in light of trade turmoil that is affecting the economy worldwide. Continued …

Thai-US trade talks are likely to fail

Don’t get too excited over news the temporary trade deal between China and the U.S. will mean friendly negotiations with other countries. The U.S. government still aims for higher import tax income to narrow its monstrous fiscal deficit.

Donald Trump would love to see an average tariff rate of around 20% or higher on imports. Higher customs revenue already allowed the U.S. to achieve a budget surplus of US$258 billion (8.5 trillion baht) in April. The figure incorporates only a 10% universal tariff, as full reciprocal tariffs were postponed for 90 days from April 8. Just imagine how nice the US budget position would be with 20% or more import tariff revenue? Continued …

Bank of Thailand Flags Investment Slump

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has expressed growing concern over persistently low investment levels, warning that its capacity for further monetary policy intervention is becoming increasingly constrained.

At the recent Monetary Policy Forum 1/2025, central bank officials emphasized that with the benchmark interest rate already at a low 1.75% following three rate cuts since late last year, the effectiveness of additional reductions would be limited. Continued …

Call for national e-marketplace

E-commerce leaders are proposing the government establish a national e-marketplace as an alternative for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to promote their products and services.

The move would reduce their reliance on large foreign e-marketplaces that continue to raise commission fees and dominate the e-commerce space. In Southeast Asia, only Vietnam and Indonesia have successful local e-marketplaces. Continued …

Frog farming a dry season boon for Isan farmers

Frog farming has generated a handsome income for residents of a village in Renu Nakhon district during recent dry seasons. Sales of live and frozen frogs and tadpoles have brought in 10 million to 20 million baht a year to their community.

When the dry season begins, a group of farmers at Ban Nong Tae in tambon Nakham turn their harvested paddy fields into frog farms. They sell tadpoles, or luk huak in Isan dialect, to local markets for 150 to 200 baht a kilogram. Continued …

Thai hotels see 30% drop in Chinese tourists, occupancy rate falls to 52% in May

Thailand’s tourism sector has entered the full low season, and private businesses are increasingly concerned about the foreign tourist market. Not only are there no positive factors supporting growth, but negative influences are compounding.

According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the number of foreign tourists between May 1–11 reached 851,912, while the total for Jan. 1–May 11 stood at 12,948,032 — a decrease of 1.04% compared to the same period last year. Chinese tourists still ranked first in number at 1,766,870, only 100,000 more than Malaysian tourists, who ranked second. Continued …

Thai hotels face double whammy from tariffs

Thai hotels are likely to face secondary effects from the U.S. reciprocal tariffs, as slowing tourist arrivals may cause hoteliers to cut prices or introduce more aggressive campaigns at home, while their overseas operations cannot escape the impact of the global economic slowdown.

Spending per person in Thailand is expected to decline 1% next year and stay flat in 2027, attributed to the weaker global economic outlook, said CGS International Securities. Continued …

Tourism groups prepare proposals to offset crisis

The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FETTA) plans to submit a proposal to the prime minister in person this month, requesting a concrete plan to restore confidence and avoid a crisis.

The decision was reached on Tuesday at a meeting of member organizations, which include the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) and the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation. Continued …

Foreign beggar gang busted for using kids as cash bait in Pattaya

A foreign beggar gang using children and the disabled to pull in cash from tourists has been busted in a dramatic sting operation by immigration police in Pattaya.

Undercover officers, posing as holidaymakers, swooped on a group of Cambodians spotted hustling money from passersby at popular tourist spots around the city. Continued …

Trang Airport finally taxiing toward take-off after years of turbulence

After years of delays, walkouts and government waffling, Trang Airport’s long-stalled revamp is finally back on the runway, with part of a new terminal expected to open next month and billions more being poured into the project.

The opposition People’s Party has vowed to keep a close eye on Trang Airport’s 4.4-billion-baht overhaul, which has been riddled with contractor chaos and snail-paced progress. But now, one major phase of the revamp is nearly ready for lift-off. Continued …

Pad Thai makes list of five best stir-fry dishes globally

Pad Thai, one of the most popular Thai dishes abroad, has been ranked fifth among the best stir-fry dishes in a survey by TasteAtlas, an online world atlas of traditional dishes.

Pad Thai’s flavors are “an intricate combination of sweet, sour and salty, with a well-balanced contrast of textures,” according to TasteAtlas. Two other Thai stir-fry dishes also made it into the top 50, namely Phat kaphrao in eighth place and Phat Si-io in 28th. Continued …

Sirindhorn Dam solar farm in Ubon Ratchatani

Thailand Built One of the Largest Floating Hydro-Solar Farms in the World

Imagine if you could rely on both solar and hydropower. Wouldn’t that greatly increase your chances of energy stability? The Electricity Generation Authority of Thailand has built one of the world’s largest floating hydro-solar farms in Ubon Ratchathani province.

Video

The hybrid project covers 300 acres (121 hectares) on the Sirindhorn Dam and is built on a reservoir. It consists of 144,417 solar panels that together form seven solar farms that can generate 45 MW of power. Continued …

Chinese EV maker to ramp up Thailand presence

China’s state-owned Changan Automobile is looking to establish a research and development center for right-hand-drive electric vehicles (EVs) and a regional office in Thailand.

Thailand Board of Investment (BoI) Secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said Changan Automobile Chairman Zhu Huarong and the company’s executive team paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra yesterday during their visit to Thailand to attend the opening ceremony of the Chinese company’s new EV manufacturing plant. Continued …

EV surge poised to displace 5 million barrels of oil per day by 2030

Electric vehicles are set to displace more than 5 million barrels of oil per day globally by 2030, highlighting their growing role in reshaping fuel demand and bolstering energy security, a new report stated.

China alone is expected to account for half of this displacement, according to the International Energy Agency’s latest global publication, as it continues to dominate global EV sales, manufacturing, and battery production. Continued …

Thai officials seize over 200 tons of illegally imported electronic waste from the US

Thai officials said yesterday they seized 238 tons of illegally imported electronic waste from the United States at the port of Bangkok, one of the biggest lots they’ve found this year.

The waste, which came in 10 large containers, was declared as mixed metal scrap but turned out to be circuit boards mixed in a huge pile of metal scrap, said Theeraj Athanavanich, director-general of the Customs Department. It was found Tuesday in a random inspection. Continued …

Ukraine, Russia to hold first direct talks since 2022

War rivals Ukraine and Russia are set to go into their first direct talks in more than three years today, with Russian President Vladimir Putin not included on the list of attendees. Continued …

Foreigners flock to China’s Shenzhen as visa-free entries surge 160%

Shenzhen, China’s southern tech hub, has reported a swell of overseas visitors this year, an influx attributed to the country’s expansion of visa-free entry and its integration of the Greater Bay Area, a region that incorporates Guangdong province, Hong Kong and Macau. Continued …

New Schedule: Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

Emergency hotline – 191
Emergency medical services – 1554
Water accident – 1196
Motorway hotline – 1586
Emergency medical – 1669
Highway police – 1193
Tourist police – 1155
Bus ticket – 1490
Department of Highways – 1586
State Railway – 1590

bangkok, cha am, covid, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Aug 26

August 26, 2024 Hua Hin Expat News

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Red Cross Fair coming/New water pipe to Hua Hin/Nordic Sauna and Padel event/Shrimp Day seminar/Lotus’ Go Fresh at Pae Mai/Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Hua Hin Cha Am/Landslide Buries Workers/More rain expected/Phuket landslide leaves 13 dead/Woman Rides Electric Suitcase/King cobra makes house call/Moonshine methanol kills 1/Patong leaders back legalizing sex work/Illegal bitcoin mine raided.Lessons of Covid-19/Economy: Casino patrons: 90% to be Locals/High-speed rail project hits brakes/Lazada chief sets out growth vision/Investment contracts/UK eyes expanded trade/Thai Bus Firms Under Siege/Wary of Chinese threat perception/Concert space bookings surge/Tourism: Koh Samui cruise terminal/Thailand Experience: Indigenous knowledge in natural resource management/The Most Pet-Friendly Country/$1-Per-Night Airbnb/Thailand’s timeless treasure Ayutthaya/Pattaya’s attraction for Brits/Memories Beach/What are the benefits of a wellness retreat?/5 worst tourist traps in Thailand/The Thai Islands to visit/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Red Cross Fair coming Sept. 13-22

Cha Am Shellfish eating and Shrimp Fishing Festival Sept 14-21

New water pipe coming to Hua Hin

Nordic Sauna and Padel event ends Sunday

Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce iwill hold a Nordic Sauna and Padel Weekend in Hua Hin Aug. 31 to Sept. 1.

There will be multiple activities, such as playing padel, golf or Finnish sauna and spa if you are more into the relaxing activities. For dinner they will host a BBQ. Continued …

Shrimp Day seminar held in Hua Hin

Lotus’ Go Fresh market opens at Pae Mai Market

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Hua Hin Cha Am to offer 2,000 rooms

Video …

Landslide Buries Workers Inside High-Speed Rail Tunnel Construction

Yesterday, a landslide buried three vehicles and trapped workers inside a tunnel being constructed for the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project in Chanut subdistrict, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The incident occurred while workers were excavating the tunnel, located between 600 meters and 2 Km deep into the tunnel.

Wthe workers have been found alive and rescue teams are working tirelessly to retrieve them from 6 metres beneath the debris. According to witnesses, workers were operating backhoes and loaders when the mountainside suddenly gave way, causing a massive landslide that engulfed three vehicles, including a supervisor’s car. Continued …

More rain expected for much of Thailand

Heavy to very heavy rains are forecast in Thailand from Aug. 26-28, with isolated very heavy rains possible in the upper north, the upper northeast, the east and the south (west coast).

Affected areas during the period include Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun. Continued …

Phuket landslide leaves 13 dead, 19 injured, 209 homes damaged

Rescue officials in Phuket concluded the search for missing individuals following a devastating landslide. All 13 missing persons have been found dead and the disaster has left 19 injured and impacted 209 households.

The landslide claimed the lives of five men and eight women. Among the deceased were two Thai women from Surat Thani and Sakon Nakhon provinces, a Russian couple, and nine Myanmar workers. Continued …

Woman Rides Electric Suitcase While Using Phone on Busy Bangkok Road

Video …

King cobra makes a house call in Chon Buri

A homeowner in Chon Buri had a terrifying encounter yesterday when a 4-meter-long King Cobra slithered into his house. The snake, which raised its head as if to greet the homeowner, coiled itself under a table, prompting a call for assistance from local authorities.

The Tri Khunatham Foundation’s rescue team rushed to the scene equipped with snake-handling tools. Upon arrival, the rescue team found the massive king cobra under a table. It took them over 20 minutes to carefully capture the aggressive snake. Continued …

Moonshine methanol hospitalizes 20, kills 1 in Bangkok

Authorities shut down 18 moonshine shops in six districts after one man died and 20 more were hospitalized due to methanol intoxication in Min Buri district on Saturday night.

Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital in Bangkok’s Kannayao district on Sunday reported that a total of 21 patients became sick after drinking the illegal brew containing methanol. Continued …

Patong leaders back legalizing sex work for safety and health

Patong’s key figures unanimously support the legalization of sex work, asserting that it will enhance safety and health protection for sex workers and their clients.

President of the Patong Entertainment Business Assn. (PEBA) Weerawit Kreuasombat highlighted the current paradox of Thailand’s stance on its renowned sex industry. “Thailand is known for its sex industry, yet maintains a hypocritical stance toward it.” Continued …

Thai officials raid illegal bitcoin mine after power outages

Thai authorities raided an illegal bitcoin mine west of Bangkok after residents complained of frequent blackouts in the area for more than a month, local authorities said Sunday. Police and officials from the Provincial Electricity Authorities (PEA) raided the house in Ratchaburi town on Friday.

“We found bitcoin mining rigs, pointing to people using this house to operate a mine and using power they didn’t fully pay for,” said Jamnong Chanwong, a chief district security officer. Continued …

The lessons of Covid-19 are being forgotten

Four years ago, at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, governments were scrambling to protect their populations and prevent an economic meltdown. No one would dispute that addressing this existential threat was the top political priority back then.

As a former prime minister and director-general of the World Health Organization, I was impressed by the coordinated international response to Covid-19. To be sure, there were large inequalities within and between countries, resulting in society’s most vulnerable paying too high a price, especially when it came to vaccine access. Continued …

Thailand’s Casino Complex: 90% of Patrons Expected to be Locals

Thailand is poised to move forward with an ambitious entertainment complex project that includes a casino. According to the Finance Ministry, the majority of the casino’s patrons — up to 90% — are expected to be Thai locals.

Public hearings are ongoing for the draft law governing this new venture, fulfilling constitutional requirements. A special House committee has studied the feasibility and submitted its findings to the Cabinet, prompting the Finance Ministry to draft the necessary legislation. Continued …

Bangkok airports’ high-speed rail project hits the brakes

The high-speed rail project set to connect Bangkok’s three major airports has been thrown into limbo, as contract amendments grind to a halt. The delay is blamed on the lack of a new chairman for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Policy Committee, a role that must be filled by the incoming Cabinet — still nowhere in sight.

The 276.5-billion-baht project promises to link Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and U-Tapao airports, offering a high-speed rail connection between Bangkok and the EEC. The EEC office’s secretary-general, Chula Sukmanop, reassured that despite the current standstill, construction could still kick off this year, with completion expected within five years, aiming for a 2029 opening. Continued …

Lazada chief sets out growth vision to drive Thailand’s digital economy

As the new chief executive of major e-marketplace operator Lazada Thailand, Varitha Kiatpinyochai, 32, is the company’s youngest homegrown chief executive and the first woman to take the helm.

She outlined her vision for the company’s “customer-first” growth in Thailand, which aims to enhance the shopping experience for different generations of customers, increase opportunities for local merchants, and highlight Lazada as an innovation leader, changemaker, and key driver of Thailand’s e-commerce ecosystem. Continued …

Investment continues to contract

Investment, a key driver of Thailand’s economy, contracted in Q2 for the third consecutive quarter, decreasing by 6.2%. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported a 6.8% decline in private investment, mainly due to an 8.1% drop in machinery and equipment investment, a 22.5% decrease in vehicle investment, and a slowdown in capital goods imports.

This investment decline aligns with the reduction in new business registrations during the first seven months of 2024, totaling 54,220, a 70% decrease from the same period last year. Continued …

New UK govt eyes expanded trade with Thailand

The United Kingdom’s new government intends to pursue further trade with Thailand and Southeast Asia as a whole, in addition to broadening connections in other areas including digital technology, healthcare and clean energy.

Rhiannon Harries, UK deputy trade commissioner for Southeast Asia, was in Bangkok from recently to hold discussions with government officials, members of the business sector and UK entrepreneurs in Thailand about UK-Thai trade relations. Continued …

Thai Bus Firms Under Siege by Cut-Rate Chinese Competitors

The Thai bus industry is grappling with an influx of Chinese operators offering ultra-cheap services, disrupting the local market. The crisis has reached a critical point, prompting a call for immediate action from Thai authorities and industry stakeholders.

Wasuchet Sophonsathien, president of the Thai Transportation Operators Assn., has highlighted the deep-seated issues. Illegal foreign bus services are rife, he said, usurping market share from licensed Thai operators still recovering from the economic downturn caused by COVID-19. Continued …

Analyst wary of Chinese threat perception

The new government is being urged to urgently address the perception that Chinese products and investments pose a threat to Thais before the issue escalates and negatively affects Thailand’s exports and tourism.

Sompop Manarungsan, president of the Panyapiwat Institute of Management and a specialist on the Chinese and U.S. economies, said Thailand and China should cooperate to create a win-win trade model. Continued …

Concert space bookings surge 40% in 2nd half of 2024

The number of events organized at Impact Muang Thong Thani in the first half of the year increased by 10% year on year (YoY), the operator of Impact Exhibition and Convention Center said, in keeping with the MICE industry’s growth trends for all types of events, including concerts, trade shows, meetings and seminars.

Paul Kanjanapas, CEO of IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., said the main increase came in organizing meetings, seminars and incentive groups. Space bookings, especially in the incentive group, increased by 58% YoY in the second half of this year, while concerts are up by 40% YoY. Continued …

Koh Samui eyes approval of 12.1-billion-baht cruise terminal

A new cruise terminal inKoh S amui, set to open in 2032, aims to significantly boost tourism in Surat Thani, according to Deputy Caretaker Minister Manaporn Charoensri.

Manaporn, along with Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, visited Koh Samui to review the progress of major transport infrastructure projects. Suriya revealed that the ministry has several new initiatives under way to enhance the tourism sector. Continued …

The role of indigenous and local knowledge in natural resource management

One sunny morning in late 2004, the Moken people of the Surin Islands in the Andaman Sea witnessed an alarming phenomenon – the seawaters suddenly receded even as the placid weather remained unchanged. For Moken elders, this was a harbinger of the Laboon, the furious god of the waves who is said to wreak devastation once every two generations. The entire community evacuated to higher ground.

Meanwhile, Moken seafarers who were taking tourists out snorkeling similarly noticed the ocean’s unusual behavior. They skilfully manevered their boats away from the shoreline – just as the massive tsunami struck. Continued …

Is Thailand the Most Pet-Friendly Country in the World?

Are you considering a move overseas but worried about how your beloved pets will adapt? Thailand, often celebrated for its warm smiles and gentle people, just might be the most pet-friendly place in the world. Whether you’re a “dog lady” like my sister or simply someone who can’t imagine life without a furry companion, Thailand offers a unique and welcoming environment for pets and their owners.

My sister, now 57, has been contemplating a move overseas. Naturally, I suggested Thailand, my home for the past 25 years. However, as someone who can’t live without at least three canine companions, she had her reservations. “Do Thai people eat dogs?” she asked, reflecting a common but outdated stereotype. Continued …

Traveler Gives a Tour of His $1-Per-Night Airbnb in Thailand

An American backpacker is stretching his dollar in Thailand. Mike Rari discovered a $1-per-night Airbnb room in Bangkok, which he documented in a video on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/C-0bcYNy_Mc/ and YouTube https://www.youtube.com/shorts/F5O8t3k_tHY titled “What’s Inside a $1 Airbnb?”

Giving a tour of the lodging he found, Rari, 22, began, “U.S. flag, so you feel right at home,” after entering the tiny abode by climbing a ladder. “Outlet and Wi-Fi. A little bit cramped in here,” he added, before stepping outside, climbing back down the ladder and continuing to show off the amenities, which were primarily outdoors. Continued …

Explore Thailand’s timeless treasure in Ayutthaya

It might sound like a cliché, but the best travel plans are the ones that are never made. My quest to deviate from tried-and-tested itineraries in Bangkok took me on a journey through time.

This wasn’t a high-adrenaline adventure, but it began with a commute on a local bus from the Bangkok bus terminal (also known as Chatuchak or Mochit 2) and took me to a city that was once the pride of Thailand, its erstwhile capital, and a city that was home to a million residents at its pinnacle. Continued …

Birds, booze and banter remain the Pattaya attraction for Brits

Everyone agrees that Pattaya is evolving into something different, even if nobody is sure what that will be. However, the resort’s downtown Soi Buakhao district, sometimes over-simplified as Little Britain, is proving highly resistant to change.

Many of the bars, clubs and gogos retain English-sounding names, while fish and chips on a Friday and roast beef on a Sunday are the dominant cafe and restaurant themes. There are between 500 and 1,000 mostly small units of enjoyment in the Soi Buakhao and L.K. Metro vicinity, depending on where you draw the boundaries. Continued …

Memories Beach: Thailand’s Up-and-Coming Surf Paradise

Tucked away along the pristine Andaman coast, Memories Beach in Phang Nga province is quietly carving out a reputation as Thailand’s best surf destination.

For those who crave the thrill of surfing without the intensity of competing against seasoned pros, this hidden gem offers the perfect balance. Here, casual surfers can ride the waves in a relaxed atmosphere, far removed from the crowded shores of Phuket, all while soaking up a vibrant, emerging surf culture. Continued …

What are the benefits of staying at a wellness retreat in Thailand?

As I was suspended in an aerial yoga pose, my world turned upside down; I couldn’t help but marvel at the unexpected turn my life had taken. Just days ago, I was an overworked, stressed-out professional needing a break from the daily hustle. Now, I was at a wellness retreat in Phuket, embracing experiences I never thought I’d have the courage to try.

According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness tourism market is valued at more than US$640 billion. Intrigued by this trend and desperate for a mental reset, I stepped out of my comfort zone and into a world of sunrise hikes and meditation sessions. Little did I know that this leap of faith would profoundly transform my life. Continued …

5 worst tourist traps in Thailand: What to know before you go

Thailand, famed for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals, is a dream destination for many travelers. However, like any popular tourist spot, it has its share of tourist traps — places that, while iconic, might not always offer the authentic experience visitors seek.

Here are five well-known tourist traps in Thailand and other tips. Continued …

These are the Thai Islands to visit instead of Phuket

With miles of golden sand beaches stretching along its western flank; gorgeous temples, mosques and churches dotted around the villages and hillsides; internationally revered Michelin restaurants; a culturally rich and recently regenerated old town; a well connected international airport; plus an armada of longtail boats anchored on the shores ready to drive you out on trips around the inlets, it’s easy to see why Phuket has maintained its spot as Thailand’s most popular island for decades.

But in Phuket, where gridlock traffic jams on the roads and lack of space on the beaches are already frequent complaints, it makes you wonder: does this island need an influx? Is it time to swap Phuket for another Thai destination on your next trip? Continued …

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

Emergency hotline – 191
Emergency medical services – 1554
Water accident – 1196
Motorway hotline – 1586
Emergency medical – 1669
Highway police – 1193
Tourist police – 1155
Bus ticket – 1490
Department of Highways – 1586

baht, climate change, covid, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-June 17

June 17, 2024 Hua Hin Expat News

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Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Free event in Hua Hin to address major changes in Thai tax legislation

Business Class Asia is hosting a free event to discuss the most significant changes to Thai tax legislation in decades and their implications for onshore and offshore tax planning.

The event, titled “Income Tax & Estate Planning Briefing for Globally Mobile/Focused Thai Residents,” will be held on June 21 at 6pm at the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin. Continued …

Watch rare birth of twin elephant calves in Thailand

A 36-year-old elephant gave birth to twins at a zoo in central Thailand in a rare surprise for caretakers and the mother herself.

Caretakers only planned on Chamchuri giving birth to one calf on June 7 at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal, about 50 miles north of Bangkok, according to BBC. As the team cleaned the boy calf and helped stand him on his knees, Chamchuri’s surprise arrived: a girl. Continued …

7th annual food festival opens in Ao Prachuap

The 7th Local Food and Traditional Sweets Festival officially kicked off Friday evening at the seaside road area of Ao Prachuap. Komgrit Charoenpattanasombat, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, presided over the opening ceremony, marking the beginning of the 10-day event.

Kamon Kaewteth, mayor of Prachuap Khiri Khan city, highlighted the event’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of introducing both Thai and international tourists to the region’s renowned foods and traditional sweets. Continued …

Explosion strikes annual rocket festival in Roi Et: 30 injured

Yesterday, a tragic incident marred the annual Rocket Festival at Ban Sang Bu Temple in Roi Et Province. The normally joyous event, which attracts numerous locals and visitors to Phon Sai Sawang subdistrict, Phon Thong District, ended in disaster when a rocket explosion caused significant injuries among the attendees.

This year, participants eagerly gathered to witness the launch of 370,000 rockets — a tradition aimed at celebrating local culture and bringing luck to the community. However, as the event proceeded, one of the rockets malfunctioned as it was being launched, resulting in a powerful explosion at the rocket launcher base. Continued …

PM Tests Positive for Covid-19

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has tested positive for Covid-19 and is advised to rest until Wednesday. The prime minister’s office confirmed the diagnosis late last night, revealing that Srettha has been feeling unwell since Friday.

According to Chai Watcharong, the spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, Srettha consulted a doctor who confirmed the Covid-19 infection. The physician has recommended he rest and isolate to prevent further spread of the virus. Continued …

New highly-transmissible Covid strain will elude vaccines: expert

The KP.2 strain of Covid-19 will become dominant in Thailand, according to a renowned virologist. It will be more transmissible and vaccines will be hard-pressed to keep up with its mutations, but its symptoms will not be more severe than those of previous strains of the virus.

Prof. Yong Poovorawan at the Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University posted online Saturday that the KP.2 strain was spreading and replacing JN.1 as the dominant strain in the country. JN.1 has been common in the country since late last year, he wrote. Continued …

Thailand Poised to Make History with Marriage Equality Bill

Thailand is on the verge of a milestone with the impending approval of the Marriage Equality Bill. This legislation, which is set for its final round of Senate voting later this month, has the potential to make Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to recognize and uphold marriage equality.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has long championed the cause, promising that Thailand would become a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community. The bill seeks to amend the existing marriage laws, ensuring that same-sex couples enjoy the same rights and protections as heterosexual couples. Continued …

Missing contraband diesel vessels found near Malaysian waters

Three vessels carrying 330,000 liters of contraband diesel that vanished from a police pier in Chon Buri have been located near Malaysian waters, police confirmed.

Police Major Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew, deputy commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, announced that the three boats disappeared from the marine police pier in Sattahip district of Chon Buri last week. After traveling through Cambodian and Vietnamese waters, they were found off southern Thailand. Continued …

Professor warns against reclassifying cannabis as illegal narcotic

Professor Panthep Puapongphan, dean of the College of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University, voiced concerns regarding efforts to reclassify cannabis as an illegal narcotic. He says that such a move could worsen drug-related issues rather than improve them.

Panthep stressed that cannabis has played a significant role in helping individuals quit more harmful substances like methamphetamine and heroin. He argued that data comparing post-decriminalization periods with the lockdown year of 2021 is misleading, as fluctuations in psychiatric cases were more likely due to the Covid-19 pandemic rather than cannabis use. Continued …

Russian Man Arrested in Phuket Over 50 Stolen Coral Rocks – Continued …
Filipina Woman Overstays in Thailand for Over 4 Years – Continued …

Economist warns of further industry closures

More businesses in the automobile, electrical appliances, and electronics industries are under threat of closure because they are not moving quickly enough to adapt to digital technology and global trends, an economic expert from the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce said.

His remarks are consistent with those of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), which warned that more factories in Thailand could close this year due to the upcoming implementation of a standard 400 baht minimum wage nationwide by Oct. 1. Continued …

Even with digital wallet, S&P affirms stable outlook

S&P Global Ratings says it plans to maintain its stable outlook for Thailand’s sovereign ratings even if the country implements the digital wallet scheme. The rating agency advised the Thai government to balance social spending with fiscal prudence.

The proposed digital wallet handout will benefit certain segments of the population and increase domestic consumption, Kim Eng Tan, managing director of sovereign ratings for Asia-Pacific at S&P Global Ratings, said at a seminar in Bangkok. Continued …

BOI Approves Investment Worth USD1.54 billion in Biochemicals, Data Centers, Hospital

The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has approved the investment-promotion applications of eight large projects worth a combined 56.95 billion baht (USD1.54 billion), including a bio-ethylene plant project by the local joint venture of Brazil’s Braskem, as well as data centers, power plants, and a major new hospital.

The meeting, which was chaired by Pichai Chunhavajira, deputy prime minister, minister of finance, and chairman of the BOI, also approved the introduction of a new investment promotion category covering service centers for the repair, repack, and reuse of used electric vehicle (EV) batteries and energy storage systems, that further complements the BOI’s comprehensive EV supply chain policy and incentives. Continued …

Addressing the employee skills gap

Recent decisions by two Japanese automakers to close their plants in Thailand affect the country’s standing as a leading global car producer, once dubbed the “Detroit of Asia”.

The announcements by Subaru and Suzuki Motor Corp. to cease operations at their car-assembly facilities by the end of 2024 and 2025, respectively, follows the closure of 1,600-1,700 factories in several industries, as reported by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Continued …

Is MGM China thinking of investing in Thailand casinos?

Pansy Ho, the chairperson and executive director of MGM China Holdings, has held a meeting with the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thapanee Kiatphaibool, and expressed interest in investing in the kingdom, according to a media report.

The report said TAT would hold further talks with the Macao casino operator over “possible collaboration” in the development of “new tourism-related products.” Continued …

Is Thailand facing an over-tourism crisis ?

Thailand is indeed experiencing an over-tourism crisis. The situation has escalated to the point where popular destinations like Maya Bay and cities such as Pattaya and Phuket are facing environmental degradation and infrastructure strain due to the overwhelming number of visitors.

The concept of “over-tourism” has resurfaced with the global resurgence in tourism. But already back in 2019, concerns about excessive tourism growth were so pronounced that the UN World Tourism Organization advocated for responsible management of such growth to maximize the opportunities it can create for communities worldwide. Continued …

Food tourism high on Thailand’s soft power list

From jasmine rice to Pad Thai noodles and spicy tom yum soups, Thailand is renowned for its robust agricultural and food products, making it a major exporter worldwide.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates 20%-25% of tourism expenditures are for food, particularly Thai dishes, during trips to the nation. Continued …

Highlights from Bangkok’s Thailand Wellness Asia Summit 2024

Thailand, with its successful hosting of the third annual Thailand Wellness Asia Summit (TWAS) event in 2024, is paving the way for Asia to become the wellness hub of the world.

The event kicked off with a grand opening ceremony at the Intercontinental Hotel, Bangkok. Held June 11-14, the event is one of Southeast Asia’s largest gatherings on wellness, witnessing participation from over 30 countries with over 1,000 attendees. Continued …

Germany’s FTI Losses Exceed 111M Baht in Thailand

The collapse of the third-largest tour operator in Europe, FTI, has started to affect thousands of tourists and hundreds of hotels in Thailand, leading to losses of 111 million baht.

Germany-based FTI Group filed for insolvency in the Munich regional court earlier this month, affecting a number of holidaymakers in Thailand this week as they are scheduled to check out. Continued …

Lesser-Known Thai City Destined To Become Digital Nomad Hotspot

Digital nomads are always on the hunt for the next best place to call home – even if that’s only for 30 days, a few months, or multiple years. There may be no better dream destination than Thailand. This fascinating country is cheap, exotic, cultural, and simply unparalleled to any other nation.

We all know Bangkok is, at the very least, one of the better gateways to dip your toes into digital nomadism, but there is so much more than meets the eye to Thailand than this bustling concrete jungle. Continued …

Chumphon Tour Bus Crash Leaves Two Dead, Many Injured

A tour bus and a truck carrying rubber wood logs collided yesterday, resulting in two fatalities and multiple injuries. The collision took place in Chumphon province.

Police Lt. Col. Somboon Phumkajorn of Tha Sae Police Station reported the incident happened at 10.30 pm. The tour bus, operated by Sombat Tour traveling from Bangkok to Ranong, collided with a Hino truck at a u-turn on Phetkasem Road, near the Khao Phang Highway Police Station in Tha Kham subdistrict, Tha Sae district, Chumphon province. Continued …

Russian Tourist Drowns Ignoring Warnings at Surin Beach, Phuket

A Russian man drowned yesterday after swimming in rough seas at Surin Beach in Phuket, defying a red flag warning signaling dangerous conditions.

The incident unfolded around 3 pm when 64-year-old Aleksei Apostolov entered the water alone, despite visible warnings of strong waves. Thai lifeguards, keeping a vigilant eye on the situation, acted promptly, pulling him from the turbulent waters and immediately initiating CPR. Continued …

154 Tons of Water Delivered to Drought-Hit Koh Larn

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) vessel HTMS Ravi delivered approximately 154 tons (approximately 154,000 liters) of fresh water to residents of Koh Larn in Pattaya, addressing an ongoing drought.

This significant delivery occurred yesterday, prompted by Koh Larn’s struggle with water shortages exacerbated by dry weather and a surge in tourist numbers. Continued …

Songkhla touts its MICE tourism potential

Songkhla’s administration is partnering up with businesses in the tourism sector to promote the province as a MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) destination to Malaysians.

The chairman of hotel operators’ association in Songkhla’s Hat Yai district, Sitthipong Sitthipatprapa, said the province is well-equipped to handle MICE events in addition to conventional tourism, as it has a wide range of venues that could cater to such activities. Continued …

Chinese outbound travel recovery lags due to costs, visa snags

A recovery in Chinese overseas travel from the Covid-19 pandemic is fading as rising costs and difficulties in securing visas cement a preference for local and short-haul destinations.

The delay in a revival to pre-Covid levels by China’s outbound travelers, the world’s top spenders on international tourism and airlines, is hitting travel-related companies, hotels and retailers globally. Continued …

These Common Money Practices Can Be Offensive In Thailand

In the United States, handling money is a very mundane, laissez-faire thing — there are no particular rules that delineate how you’re supposed to hold, give, or respect those precious dollar bills. When Americans travel abroad, they might bring along cultural practices that are second nature.

However, some of these seemingly innocuous actions can actually be deeply offensive in other cultures. If you’re headed for Thailand, a bucket list country where the U.S. dollar is strong, do beware. In the “Land of Smiles,” a country with a rich cultural heritage and deep-seated traditions, the way you treat the local currency — the Thai baht — can significantly impact how you are perceived. Continued …

Suggested destinations to visit during rainy season in Thailand

This year, Thailand’s rainy season officially started on May 20 and will conclude in mid-October. This is the perfect time to explore nature, as it is the season when forests become greener, the weather is cooler, flowers are fully blooming, and the waterfalls are full of water.

Here is a list of recommended destinations to visit if you’re traveling around Thailand during the rainy season: Continued …

#thailandeconomy #huahin #prachuapkhirikhan #thailandtourism #thailandtravel #thailandfdi #thailandinvestment #thailandexports #thailandretirement #thailandimmigration #thailandtransportation #thailandrealestate

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

Emergency hotline – 191
Emergency medical services – 1554
Water accident – 1196
Motorway hotline – 1586
Emergency medical – 1669
Highway police – 1193
Tourist police – 1155
Bus ticket – 1490
Department of Highways – 1586

bangkok, climate change, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-June 15

June 15, 2024 Hua Hin Expat News

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Prime Minister visits Hua Hin Railway Station to inspect SRT Royal Blossom train

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited the Hua Hin Railway Station on Friday, accompanied by Deputy Minister of Transport Surapong Piyachote and deputy governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) Avirut Thongnet.

The delegation was welcomed by Prachuap Khiri Khan Gov. Somkid Chantanamrue and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Director Archawan Kongkanant, along with other government officials. Continued …

Thailand’s Success Against Avian Flu: Lessons for the World

Twenty years ago, Thailand faced a devastating avian flu outbreak, losing over 62 million birds, primarily chickens. The virus, identified as H5N1, spread rapidly among poultry and led to significant human fatalities. Now, with countries like the U.S. facing similar outbreaks, there’s much to learn from Thailand’s effective response.

In late 2003, Thailand’s poultry industry, a global leader producing a billion chickens annually, was hit hard by the virus. By January 2004, authorities confirmed the outbreak, suspected to have jumped from wild waterfowl to chickens. The response was swift and rigorous: massive culling of infected and nearby flocks, compensated by the government, helped contain the spread. Continued …

Probe into Salary Deductions for Thai Military Conscripts Unveiled

An investigation has been initiated by Thailand’s Second Army Region following a leaked document that allegedly shows deductions from new conscripts’ salaries, sparking controversy online.

The document purportedly details the expense account of new conscripts from a specific military unit. According to the page, various deductions — including a 500-baht fee for septic tank pumping — result in conscripts receiving less than 5,000 Baht after all deductions. Continued …

Over Half of Chatuchak Market Pet Shops Unlicensed

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has raided and inspected animal shops at Chatuchak Market after the worst fire incident involving pets occurred on Tuesday.

Forty-four shops were found to be operating without licenses, and 25 of them were urged to expedite their applications. Additional fire extinguishers are ready to be ordered and installed. Continued …

Monstrous monitor lizards crawl into Bangkok sewage pipe

Two monstrous monitor lizards were recently seen crawling into a sewage pipe in Bangkok, stirring dread and fear but also creating a sense of awe at the fascinating creepy crawlies that lie beneath Thailand’s sprawling capital.

In a video that first appeared on TikTok, two Asian water monitor lizards – each measuring over 1.5 meter in length – could be seen trying to claw their way into a drainage tunnel that strides a waterway. Continued …

Many Thai industries in battle for survival

Are Thai industries under threat of a massive collapse, given rapid changes in technology, fierce competition from China and the planned hike in the daily minimum wage?

Two Japanese carmakers, Subaru and Suzuki, have announced that they will shut down their manufacturing sites in Thailand at the end of this year and next year, respectively, amid shrinking demand for their vehicles. Continued …

‘More factory closures likely if Thai govt does not act against dumping’

Thailand’s manufacturing sector is facing a serious crisis, with a total of 488 factories closing down in the first five months of this year, according to data with the Department of Industrial Works and KKP Research.

The average closures at over 97 a month compare unfavorably with the average of 57 factories that shut down each month in 2021. The department data showed that from January 2022 to March 2023, a total of 1,704 factories ceased operations in the aftermath of Covid, an average of 113 closures a month. Continued …

Digital Wallet Scheme Expands to Include Smartphones

In a significant shift, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat announced that beneficiaries of the government’s 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme can now use the funds to purchase smartphones. This decision comes amid growing recognition of smartphones as essential tools in daily life.

Initially, smartphones were excluded from the list of permissible purchases under the scheme. However, the Digital Wallet Board has revised this stance, considering the ubiquitous role smartphones play in communication, work, and access to information. Continued …

Digital divide a major challenge facing Thailand amid aging society

Senior citizens are likely to be at risk of getting left behind due to lack of digital literacy, as Thailand is among Asia-Pacific countries undergoing a major digital transformation.

Thailand’s digital economy is expected to reach US$53 billion in 2025 with a 15% compounded annual growth rate and is projected to double to approximately $100 billion to $165 billion in 2030, according to the e-Conomy SEA Report 2022. Continued …

TAT bullish on casino investment

Thailand stands a good chance of attracting investments in entertainment complexes, as MGM China Holdings is looking for new overseas investments, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

After meeting Pansy Ho, chairperson and executive director of MGM China Holdings, on Thursday, TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said MGM China wants to promote Macau tourism to the Thai market, while also searching for new investment options in Thailand’s proposed entertainment complex. Continued …

Relaxed rules to draw more investors

The government will ease the necessary procedures and provide more incentives to attract foreign investors in the film, food and pharmaceutical industries.

Tongthong Chandransu, chairperson of the Regulatory Reform Committee for Ease of Doing Business, said on Friday that progress has been made in amending the laws and regulations that restrict the operations of various businesses. Continued …

Thailand expects $22 billion in investment

Thailand expects at least 800 billion baht (US$21.78 billion) worth of investment applications this year, the government said on Friday.

In the first quarter of 2024, the value of total investment applications rose 31% year-on-year to 228 billion baht, the Board of Investment (BOI) reported in May. More than half of the applications came from foreign investors, the board added. Continued …

Private sector hopeful that tourism will continue to grow

The Airlines Association of Thailand expects tourism-related industries to grow in the second half of this year, provided no negative factors crop up that would significantly affect people’s travel plans, and the government continues to roll out supporting measures.

Association President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth said on Thursday that based on the number of foreign arrivals of 14.76 million in the first five months of 2024, an increase of 38% year on year, the tourism sector should meet the government’s target of generating 3.5 trillion baht in revenue. Continued …

Phuket Workshops Aim to Reduce Motorcycle Fatalities

Phuket authorities launched a series of workshops yesterday to tackle the rising number of fatalities and injuries from road accidents, especially involving motorcycles. The event, held at a Ratsada hotel, saw a significant turnout of district and community leaders.

Phuket Vice Gov. Sattha Thongkam spearheaded the initiative, under the District Drive Project, calling for enhanced motorcycle riding safety across the province. Continued …

Is it time for airlines to restrict alcohol during long-haul flights?

Flying can be stressful, and many people enjoy a drink to relax. However, a new study reveals that combining alcohol with the cabin pressure experienced at cruising altitude can significantly impact heart health, even if you’re young and healthy. This discovery raises a critical question: should airlines restrict alcohol on long-haul flights?

Researchers from the Institute of Aerospace Medicine in Germany, aimed to explore how alcohol consumption and cabin pressure at high altitudes interact to affect sleeping passengers’ heart health. They wanted to determine if the combination of these two factors might have a compounded effect on the heart, potentially posing a risk even to those without pre-existing conditions. Continued …

A Day in the Life of Thai Cuisine

In the predictable world of American breakfast TV, it’s a chorus of cereals, bacons, pancakes and eggs on toast. But the renowned Korean-American chef David Chang, disruptor extraordinaire and host of “The Next Thing You Eat,” has a different recipe in mind.

“I want diversity,” he declares, envisioning a future where his son won’t be a breakfast oddball for craving noodle soup at dawn. Chang’s culinary rebellion, showcased in episode 4’s “Breakfast: An Illusion of Choice,” challenges breakfast orthodoxy and beckons a deliciously diverse morning spread, prompting the world to question why we limit our first meal of the day to just a few items. Continued …

Thailand’s Top Camping Destinations

Camping in Thailand offers families a refreshing way to bond, explore flora and fauna and experience local ways of life – a tranquil alternative to the country’s electric urban centers. From north to south and west to east, the lush tropical rain forests, idyllic rivers and majestic mountains teeming with wildlife promise fun-filled activities and unforgettable memories waiting to be discovered.

Surround yourself with nature in your choice of accommodation – from transparent dome tents and camper vans to tree-top houses and safari-style glamping suites. Engage in outdoor and water activities, or simply relax at the campground amid panoramic views and whispers of the wild. Continued …

Four Hot Seaside Destinations to Visit in Thailand

The crown jewels of Thailand’s tourism hot spots are all (with a few exceptions) in the Andaman Sea or the Gulf of Thailand. Whether it be Phuket, Koh Samui or Pattaya, these destinations are slowly becoming too popular for those who prefer an element of tranquility with their sun tans.

Luckily, there are a number of alternatives that offer their own versions of uniqueness, charm and authenticity. It’s about time we shared hot spots that were treated as secrets among locals. Continued …

Vietnam plans to raise booze consumption tax from 65% to 100% by 2030

Vietnam’s Finance Ministry has proposed to hike a special consumption tax on alcoholic drinks to 100% by 2030, the ministry said, a move that may further hurt the country’s beverage industry. Continued …

US Navy faces intense combat against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen

The U.S. Navy prepared for decades to potentially fight the Soviet Union, then later Russia and China, on the world’s waterways. But instead of a global power, the Navy finds itself locked in combat with a shadowy, Iran-backed rebel group based in Yemen. Continued …

Today’s Thai environmental news

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule