Tag Archives: thailand marijuana

bangkok, chiang mai, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Oct 11

Today’s news: New Mediterranean restaurant/Wine tax in Thailand/Downpours to continue/How long can electric subsidies last?/Cigarette Price Hike/Dane arrested for Illegal firearms possession/30,000 Thais in Israel/Thais in Israel mostly work in agriculture/Reservoir overflow/Rethinking Thailand’s Defamation Law/Woman jailed for offensive remarks/Passing of the late king/Urine’s health secrets/Efforts to Curb Teen Pregnancy/c issue needs a fix/Israel-Hamas conflict stirs concern/Rich ‘might not get Bt10,000 handout’/To invest in Nakhon Phanom, Nong Khai/Thailand’s cannabis market/Thailand Medical Cannabis Market Size/Chinese Tourist Arrivals Plunge/Thai tourism suffers amid Israel conflict/10,000 unexpected Israeli guests/Vegetarian Festival comes to Chinatown/6 ways to explore Chiang Mai/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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

New Mediterranean restaurant opens in Hua Hin

Gregal, a beachfront Mediterranean restaurant, has opened in Hua Hin. The restaurant is located beside The Royal Princess Condominium Hua Hin. The menu includes vegetarian options to meat, fish, and seafood delicacies, as well as pasta and paella. Gregal currently is operating under soft opening hours from 12 pm to 6 pm, except Tuesday. (HHT)

Wine tax in Thailand: A Protectionist Barrier?

Why is wine tax in Thailand 250% on average? In most cases, duties constitute a state’s first protection against products imported from other countries in direct competition with local production.

Does Thailand produce wine? Yes, local production is around one million liters per year and is based in three areas of the country: Loei, Hua Hin and Khao Yai. The projects are relatively recent, and the quality of the wine produced is rather low, with a high price. This is not surprising, given that the production cycle of the vines was totally altered, as September, the traditional harvest month, is in the middle of the rainy season. Continued …

Downpours to continue over much of Thailand

Scattered thunderstorms, some of them heavy, are forecast for the northern, central, eastern, and southern (east coast) regions today, while Bangkok and its vicinity have an 80% chance of rain.

This weather pattern is due to a low-pressure system moving across the lower central region, eastern region, and upper southern region converging with a moderate high-pressure area over China. The southwestern monsoon, meanwhile, continues to prevail over the southern region and the Gulf of Thailand. Continued …

Electric prices lowered, but how long can subsidies last?

The national oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc has agreed to delay accepting payments of 8-9 billion baht for the gas it sells to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to help the government reduce power bills for the rest of this year. Gas makes up around 60% of the fuel used for power generation in Thailand.

To tame aggressive electricity prices, the Srettha Thavisin cabinet resolved last month to reduce the power tariff to 3.99 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit), from 4.45 baht, but this increases the financial burden on EGAT, which needs part of the power tariff to help it settle a huge loss. Continued …

Cigarette Price Hike Sparks Surge in Illicit Trade

The Thai tobacco industry has recently been rocked by a price increase, prompting smokers to turn toward the illicit cigarette trade.

Citing increased production costs, major domestic and international tobacco manufacturers have raised their retail prices by THB 3-4 per pack. The adjustment follows a scarcity and price surge of raw materials, exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Continued …

Dane arrested on Koh Samui for Illegal firearms possession

Thai police apprehended a Danish man in Koh Samui for his illegal possession of firearms.

Following the strict measures implemented after the shooting at Siam Paragon mall in Bangkok, Thai police yesterday conducted an investigation into owners of firearms, both legal and illegal, across the country and discovered a Danish man in Koh Samui ordering guns online. Continued …

30,000 Thais in Israel; PM says all can be rescued, as war is declared

Thailand has been among the countries to suffer the most from the attack on Israel on Saturday morning, with 18 of its nationals now reported dead. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangkok is coordinating a rescue mission to see the first Thais returning home on Thursday, including those injured in the attack, primarily located in Israel’s south.

On Tuesday, officials reported that 1,437 of the 30,000 Thais living in Israel have expressed a wish to return home at this time. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has pledged the government’s full support for them and has ordered the Royal Thai Air Force to keep planes on standby. Continued …

Thais in Israel mostly work in agriculture

Thai workers in Israel are in a life-threatening situation in the conflict between Israel and Palestine that erupted on Oct. 7. The fate of these Thai workers has caused great concern and anxiety among their families in Thailand.

Numerous families in various provinces such as Kalasin, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Surin, Buriram and Nakhon Phanom have received reports that their loved ones have been killed, some have been injured, and others have been arrested. In addition, there are many others who have been unable to make contact. Continued …

Reservoir overflow in Thailand: Alert for potential downstream flooding

An alert has been issued by the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) on the sudden rise of water levels in nine significant reservoirs. The ONWR revealed that these reservoirs are brimming with excess water that needs to be discharged swiftly. The reservoir overflow could potentially impact downstream areas in the coming days.

The ONWR has been observing the nation’s water condition amid an ongoing monsoon trough. This weather event, predominantly affecting the north and northeast, has been causing heavy rainfall in these regions. Continued …

Rethinking Thailand’s Defamation Law

Thailand’s defamation laws, historically designed to protect individuals’ reputations against false statements, are now facing scrutiny for their strict and punitive nature.

While the aim of safeguarding reputation is noble, the broader implications of these laws on freedom of expression and democratic values are becoming increasingly evident. The need for reform is pressing as the country navigates the challenges of a modern and interconnected world. Continued …

Woman jailed for six months for offensive remarks about former PM Prayut

The elderly woman who hurled verbal abuse at then Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, during his visit to Ban Pong district in Ratchaburi in March this year, was sentenced to six months and 10 days in jail and fined 1,000 baht yesterday, without suspension, by the Ratchaburi District Court.

In imposing the sentence on the defendant, popularly known in the district as “Pa Na Ban Pong”, the court ruled that she had encroached on the security zone maintained around the prime minister and his entourage. Continued …

Passing of the late king to be observed Friday

The government is planning activities to mark the seventh anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great’s passing on Friday.

Teerapong Wongsiwawilas, permanent secretary of the prime minister’s office, said the government had been granted permission by His Majesty the King to organize the activities. Continued …

Experts decode urine’s health secrets

Your urine color could reveal your health issues, according to urological experts. These professionals recommend self-health checks by observing one’s urine color, as this can reflect physical discomfort.

Urine is typically pale yellow and clear, with more water consumption leading to clearer urine. However, if despite high water intake, your urine remains dark yellow or conversely, without consuming a lot of water, it remains clear, you may be experiencing health problems. Continued …

UN Explains Efforts to Curb Teen Pregnancy in Thailand

Teen pregnancy rates have been falling dramatically in Thailand thanks to progressive legislation, but more can be done to drive it lower if the rights of girls and young women are respected, according to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA).

Ahead of the International Day of the Girl Child, marked annually on Oct. 11, Asa Torkelsson, the fund’s country director in Thailand, explained how the UN is supporting access to sexual and reproductive health, especially for young people. Continued …

Human-elephant conflict issue needs a fix

The recent report of another person being killed by a wild elephant proves that the government needs to find a solution to this issue, or such incidents will only reoccur. So far, 16 people have been killed by wild elephants this year alone.

Human-elephant conflicts are a dilemma for the government and broader Thai society that has tried to protect and boost the population of this vulnerable animal. Continued …

Israel-Hamas conflict stirs concern in Thai business sector over trade disruption

The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict has stirred unease within Thailand’s business sector, due to worries about its potential impact on Thai-Israeli trade, valued at around 40 billion baht. Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, advised Thai businesses to closely monitor the situation and manage any potential risk.

Those trading with the Middle East have been particularly urged to exercise caution, given the potential for broader impacts if the conflict escalates. Despite the unrest, Sanan maintains that the conflict is unlikely to substantially impede Thailand’s trade with Israel, considering the relatively modest trade volume between the two nations. Continued …

Rich ‘might not get Bt10,000 handout’

The government is considering revising its 10,000-baht digital wallet handout scheme by excluding wealthy people, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said on Tuesday.

The proposal comes at a time when the government of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been defending the centerpiece of its economic revival policy against critics who say that its cost, at 560 billion baht, is too much. As well, they say, it is still not clear how the program will be funded. Continued …

Central Group to invest in Nakhon Phanom, Nong Khai

Retail and property developer Central Pattana Plc (CPN), the operator of Central shopping centers nationwide, plans to invest 3 billion baht to develop the northeastern provinces of Nakhon Phanom and Nong Khai into secondary cities with great potential on par with megacities.

Tos Chirathivat, executive chairman and chief executive of Central Group, said one of Central Group’s core strategies as a retail, service, and real-estate leader is for business expansion by upgrading communities. Continued …

What Thailand’s new coalition government means for the cannabis market

More than a year after Thailand legalized the recreational use of marijuana, the country’s new prime minister plans to roll back that law in an attempt to end the current glut in the market and bring long-term benefits to the industry.

In June 2022, the Southeast Asian nation became the first in Asia to decriminalize the cannabis plant, allowing it to be grown and consumed freely. Since then, the weed market has turned free-for-all, as various businesses entered the sector with little regulatory or consumer guidance to oversee such activity. Continued …

Thailand Medical Cannabis Market Size, Trends, Business Opportunity

The latest report published by IMARC Group, titled “Thailand Medical Cannabis Market: Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2023-2028,” provides a detailed analysis of the industry, including the Thailand medical cannabis market share, size, trends, and growth forecasts. The report also includes competitor and regional analysis and highlights the latest advancements in the market.

The Thailand medical cannabis market size reached US$122.1 million in 2022. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$1,408.0 million by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 53.2% during 2023-2028. Continued …

Chinese Tourist Arrivals Plunged Nearly 30% Week Over Week

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports said yesterday the number of foreign tourists arriving in Thailand dropped week over week (Oct. 2-8, 2023 over Sept. 25-Oct. 1, 2023), especially those from China, with their total plunging by 29.5%.

Last week, there were, altogether, 497,966 foreign tourists, a decrease of 54,453 foreign holidaymakers from the previous week. However a big drop in Chinese tourists was seen, with the total dwindling from 106,472 the previous week to only 75,093 last week. Continued …

Thai tourism suffers amid Israel conflict and Bangkok shooting

The conflict in Israel and the aftermath of a shooting incident in a Bangkok mall last week are predicted to lead to a decrease in foreign arrivals next week, significantly impacting Thai tourism. However, the private sector is optimistic that the visa exemption scheme will help revitalize the market in the next two months.

The Tourism and Sports Ministry noted a 9.86% decrease in foreign arrivals last week (Oct. 2-8), with numbers falling to 497,966, largely due to a significant reduction in Chinese visitors. Continued …

Thailand grapples with 10,000 unexpected Israeli guests amid conflict aftermath

Thailand is currently hosting approximately 10,000 Israeli tourists, a situation that arose due to the recent Israel-Gaza conflict. The country’s Tourism and Sports Ministry is monitoring the effects of this situation on its tourism sector.

Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Tourism and Sports minister stated that while numerous airlines have suspended flights between Thailand and Israel, El Al Airlines, Israel’s national airline, has maintained its regular flight schedule. Additionally, all airlines have provided options for flight cancellations and delays to support travelers affected by the ongoing conflict. Continued …

Vegetarian Festival comes to Bangkok’s Chinatown

Bangkok and Samphanthawong district are once again organizing the Chinatown Yaowarat Vegetarian Festival celebrating the ideals of purity, good health, auspiciousness, and ongoing charitable endeavours.

This festival kicks off at the Chaloem Phra Kiat Gate Pavilion on Yaowarat Road on Oct. 14 and continues through Oct. 23. Continued …

6 ways to explore Chiang Mai through its burgeoning craft scene

The capital of northern Thailand has been an epicenter of craftwork for centuries. Before becoming incorporated into Siam in 1932, the Chiang Mai region —surrounded by the highest mountains in the country, dense jungle and rolling rice fields —was an independent entity, part of the Lanna Kingdom.

The devout Buddhist Lanna province was known for detailed temple wood carving and terracotta clay work, ornate hill-tribe ceremonial silver production and incredible hand-woven textiles with patterns distinctive to each village. Today, Chiang Mai’s artisans continue the creative Lanna legacy, respecting their heritage while adapting creative wares for contemporary times. Continued …

At Least 29 Killed By Myanmar Junta Airstrike On Refugee Camp

An airstrike by Myanmar’s military on a refugee camp in the northernmost Kachin State on Monday night killed at least 29 people, including children, injuring more than 50, local media reported, citing a spokesman from an ethnic minority militia in the state. Continued …

China’s annual births expected to hover around 10 million as population ages

The annual number of newborns in China will stabilize at around 10 million, while the population’s aging accelerates, a senior researcher and government adviser has said. With more than 70 million estimated to be 80 years or older by 2035, demand for policy support in public services is expected to grow concurrently. Continued …

Stockholm to ban fossil-fuel cars from city center

Stockholm will ban petrol- and diesel-powered cars from key parts of the city center from 2025 as it seeks to improve air quality and reduce traffic noise, the Swedish capital’s vice mayor for transport said yesterday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

November Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule

Book a flight

 

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

 

bangkok, climate change, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, medical tourism, pattaya, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Oct 7

Today’s news: Orchid Palm Homes Cup VIII/Bt6.2 million compensation each/Online fraud cases soar to 365,000/Police target online gun sales/Eventual elimination of crop burning/Thai billionaire’s fortune plummets/Driver of ‘extra-long’ truck charged/2,000 more electric buses for Bangkok/Animals roamed loose on a flight/Digital Wallet Project Will Be Implemented/99 economists oppose digital cash handout/Climate action an opportunity/Companies to launch green-packaging initiative/Thailand’s cannabis businesses respond/China’s cross-border trips/ATTA: Focus on non-China markets/Spending uptick forecast during vegetarian festival/Asia’s primary health hub/Pattaya International Bikini Beach Race/London to Bangkok flight diverted/‘Pha khao ma’/Naga Fireball Festival/

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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Orchid Palm Homes Cup VIII set for Oct 29

Football players from all over the province will be traveling to Hua Hin to compete in the Orchid Palm Homes Cup VIII on Oct. 29. Six teams have signed up, with clubs making the journey from Pranburi, Bang Saphan and Thap Sakae.

The six-a-side tournament is set for the Black Mountain Hua Hin Football Academy and will be for Under 11 teams. This will be the eighth edition of the biannual Orchid Palm Homes Cup, which was founded in 2020. Continued …

Families of those who died in mall shooting to get Bt6.2 million compensation each

The families of the two people who were killed in the Siam Paragon shooting will each receive 6.2 million baht in compensation from the Thai government and the mall’s owners, while the injured will each receive 350,000 baht each.

Of the 6.2 million baht for the families of the Chinese and Myanmar nationals, 1.2 million baht will be from the government and the rest from the owners of the mall, who will also contribute 300,000 baht each for the injured, in addition to the 50,000 baht from the government, according to Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol. Continued …

Online fraud cases in Thailand soar to 365,000, with 45-billion-baht loss

Over the past one and a half years, a staggering 365,000 online fraud cases have been reported, inflicting a massive loss of 45 billion baht, revealed deputy government spokesperson Karom Phonphonklang.

This was in reference to the cumulative data gathered from the thaipoliceonline.com website, available from March 1 of last year until Sept. 30 this year, provided by the Royal Thai Police (RTP). Continued …

Thai police target online gun sales after deadly mall shooting

Thailand will close legal loopholes relating to firearm classification and online sales in its gun-control efforts, its police chief said after a teenager was arrested following a deadly shooting at a mall that left two people dead.

The gun used by the alleged 14-year-old shooter was modified and originally designed to fire blank rounds, meaning it wasn’t classified as a lethal weapon, and it was likely purchased online, an official said. Continued …

Southeast Asian ministers commit to eventual elimination of crop burning

Southeast Asian agriculture and forestry ministers have agreed to take collective action to minimize and eventually eliminate crop burning in the region, amid deteriorating air quality and concern about cross-border haze.

In a statement after a meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Malaysia, members recognized “the adverse environmental and health impacts of crop-burning practices,” and committed to collectively reduce and phase it out. Continued …

Thai billionaire’s fortune plummets: Freelance girlfriend accused of fraud, theft

A 70-year-old Thai billionaire accused his freelance prostitute girlfriend of 18 years of fraud and stealing from him after his wealth dwindled from billions to just under 10 million baht. The accusation by the man alleges that his 45-year-old female partner tricked him into selling his luxury car and property.

The Thai billionaire reported the case to the police, hoping to reclaim his assets and stating that he was not afraid of any potential criticism. Continued …

Suphanburi police take action against the driver of ‘extra-long’ truck

A six-wheel truck carrying dozens of empty oil drums was stopped by police in Suphanburi province for the way its cargo was transported. The truck’s cargo bed was fully loaded with empty 200-liter oil drums, with a makeshift extension from its rear to carry dozens more. The driver was charged with driving recklessly in a way that could endanger fellow motorists and pedestrians. (The Nation)

Bangkok to procure over 2,000 electric buses in next five years

The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) plans to procure 2,013 more electric buses within three to five years under a budget of around 5.5 billion baht, Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri said on Friday.

The plan aims to reduce the authority’s financial cost by at least 60% from the current 12.5 billion baht per year, most of which are attributed to maintenance and fuel costs of 2,885 public buses. Continued …

Smuggled animals roamed loose on a flight, freaking out passengers

A rat and an otter that were smuggled in a passenger’s hand luggage sparked chaos when they escaped mid-air and bit an air steward’s hand.

Shocked passengers noticed the giant albino rodent with glistening red eyes when they walked to the bathroom on the Airbus A320 flying from Bangkok to Taiwan on Wednesday afternoon. Continued … 

PM Reassures Digital Wallet Project Will Be Implemented

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday reassured that he will definitely go ahead with the government’s digital wallet handout project despite dissent from academics.

The prime minister said he has already resolved to implement the Pheu Thai campaign-promised populist project and will certainly not change his mind about it while listening to variable views from different people, including academics and critics. Continued …

99 economists go public to oppose digital cash handout policy

Ninety-nine economists and professors of economics have issued a statement opposing the government’s digital cash handout policy, and demanded its cancellation.

The Srettha Thavisin government is in the process of implementing an election campaign promise of handing out 10,000 baht to Thai citizens aged 16 years and above, to be spent in a limited area within six months, with the aim of giving the economy a push. Continued …

Climate action an opportunity to move toward achieving sustainability, says PM

Climate action is an opportunity for Thailand and its climate sector to move toward sustainability, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Friday at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.

“Many might see climate action as a burden, but I see this as an opportunity. An opportunity for Thailand and our climate sector to move toward sustainability,” he said during the speech at the event , Thailand Climate Action Conference. Continued …

3 Thai companies to launch green-packaging initiative

Charoen Pokphand (CP) Foods has announced signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with SCG Packaging (SCGP) and SCG Chemicals (SCGC). The MoU has been signed to launch a green packaging initiative.

As part of this effort, the companies will work to develop an environmentally friendly and sustainable food-packaging solution. Continued …

Thailand’s cannabis businesses respond to reformed legislation

As Thailand moves to end confusion over its cannabis laws with the new prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, the country’s tourism industry has welcomed the move.

The partial legislation of cannabis last year in June had an instant effect, and almost overnight, hundreds of coffee shops and dispensaries selling cannabis products appeared across Thailand, particularly in Bangkok and other popular tourist destinations. Continued …

China’s cross-border trips beat pre-pandemic level

China’s inbound and outbound trips surged during the eight-day Golden Week holiday this year, official data showed on Saturday, beating pre-pandemic levels but lower than an earlier government estimate.

Booking platforms and agencies say Chinese tourists looking to go abroad favor cheaper Asian destinations, with Thailand by far the preferred choice after it introduced a visa waiver program. Continued …

ATTA: Focus on non-China markets after mall shooting

Tourism authorities should work to mitigate the short-term impact of the shooting at a Bangkok mall this week by pivoting to other potential markets less affected by the news to keep a steady flow of arrivals during high season, according to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA).

ATTA President Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn said news reports on the shooting at Siam Paragon had spread in many countries, but at differing levels. Continued …

Spending uptick forecast during vegetarian festival

The annual vegetarian festival, scheduled to run from Oct. 15-23, is expected to generate spending of 44.6 billion baht, the highest in 10 years and a 5.5% increase over last year’s figure.

Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the University of Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC), attributed the anticipated increase to greater consumer confidence in the economy. Continued …

Thailand’s road to becoming Asia’s primary health hub

Thailand has been a popular destination for medical tourists seeking a wide range of medical and wellness services, including cosmetic surgery, dental procedures, fertility treatments, and more. The country’s reputation for quality healthcare services has contributed to its growth in this sector.

Thailand’s reputation for traditional therapies, spa treatments, and holistic wellness practices has also contributed to its appeal as a health and wellness destination. Continued …

Pattaya International Bikini Beach Race Oct 28

Central Pattaya shopping center is collaborating with the government sector and partners to delight all participants in the event called “NAKIZ presents Pattaya International Bikini Beach Race 2023”, aiming to organize the largest of its kind in Thailand.

This event is set to boost Pattaya’s reputation as a sports tourism destination, attracting both Thai and international tourists to visit the city. This endeavor will contribute to revitalizing the local economy and establishing Pattaya as a popular sports tourism destination for both Thai residents and foreigners. Continued …

London to Bangkok flight diverted due to couple’s argument

An intoxicated couple in a “fierce argument” caused an airplane flying from London to Bangkok to divert to Vienna, where the woman reportedly threw thousands in cash notes at an airport worker.

The incident began about five hours into the Sept. 30 EVA Air flight when the couple started to argue loudly – allegedly about money. Continued …

‘Pha khao ma’: the ultimate Thai multi-purpose cloth

A length of versatile traditional Thai woven fabric that enjoys widespread popularity, especially in rural areas, the pha khao ma, usually, translated as loincloth, is a practical textile that serves a variety of everyday functions.

It is commonly employed for wrapping items, drying your face, providing shade from the sun, covering tables, and even humorously worn around the neck as a symbol of despair in life. Continued …

Nong Khai counts down to Naga Fireball Festival

Nong Khai province is preparing to once again organize the Naga Fireball Festival, an annual event linked to the celebration of the end of the Buddhist lent, which this year falls from Oct. 20 to 30.

Nong Khai Gov. Rachan Sunhua on Friday presided over a meeting of provincial officers and private partners to plan the organization of activities at various locations across the province. Continued …

Climate crisis is health crisis, more so in Asia Pacific

Climate change has disastrous health impacts. As a medical humanitarian organization, Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is already seeing these impacts on the people we treat in over 70 countries around the world. Continued …

Jailed Iranian activist wins 2023 Nobel Peace Prize

Imprisoned activist Narges Mohammadi, who has campaigned for women’s rights, democracy and against the death penalty in Iran for years, won the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday. Mohammadi, 51, has done her work despite facing numerous arrests and spending years behind bars for her activism. Continued …

Soaring US job growth a challenge

U.S. employers in September defied the view of Federal Reserve officials that the job market was beginning to cool, adding 336,000 positions in a return to the fevered hiring seen during the coronavirus pandemic. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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
Uncategorized

Tuesday’s news-Oct 3

Today’s news: Hua Hin Marriott wins award/Flu outbreak sweeps Thailand/Thailand braces for flash floods/Villages in Sukhothai flooded/Miss Thailand World 2023/2,000 baht fine for exam failures/Bangkok to up garbage fees/Bangkok’s priciest condo/Lower prices of over 151,000 goods/PM urges arms deals delay/Thailand Eyes Halal Leadership/EV makers ramp up promotions/The Ripple Effects of Cannabis Decriminalization/Flights from China almost full/Phuket tourist arrivals drop/Thai Food Became A Worldwide Favorite/Shining a light on Phitsanulok/Top Temples in Bangkok/Head back to Ayutthaya/

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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

 

Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa wins tourism award

Marriott International is celebrating after 10 of its hotels and resorts in Thailand were honored in the 14th Thailand Tourism Awards, which recognize the brightest and best travel providers in the “Land of Smiles.”

Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa leads the way with a gold award in the resort category, while nine other properties covering five industry-leading brands won prestigious TAT awards. Continued …

Flu outbreak sweeps Thailand

Thailand is grappling with a severe flu outbreak, with tens of thousands of patients reported in the past two months. The Office for Disease Control and Prevention 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima (OCP9) urges everyone to intensify precautionary measures and to continue wearing masks.

From Jan. 1 to Sept. 19, there have been 185,216 patients with flu and one death, with the majority being females. Most cases are found among 10- to 14-year-olds, followed by newborns to four-year-olds and seven- to nine-year-olds. Continued …

Thailand braces for flash floods as 44 provinces drenched

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) today issued a heavy rain warning and flash floods in 44 provinces. The eastern region is expected to be the hardest hit, with 80% of the area likely to face heavy downpours.

Bangkok is also expected to experience significant heavy rain, with a risk of sudden flash floods and forest water run-off. Continued …

Villages in Sukhothai flooded as Yom River embankment collapses

The embankment along the Yom River in Sukhothai province has collapsed in several areas, sending water from the swollen river gushing into riverside farmland and local communities.

One gaping hole in Ban Wang Yai in Wang Yai subdistrict is about 100 meters long, causing excess water to sweep into Wang Yai and Wang Thong subdistricts. About 500 households are now under water. Continued …

South African-Thai Woman Crowned Miss Thailand World 2023

Tharina Botes, a 26-year-old South African-Thai woman was crowned Miss Thailand World 2023. The Miss Thailand World 2023 beauty pageant final round was held on Sunday night in Bangkok. Tharina is nicknamed “Kanom”. Her father is South African and her mother is Thai. She started her beauty pageant career at 13-years-old. In 2019, she represented Miss Grand from Phuket. In 2021, she was the first runner up in Miss Universe Thailand. (Pattaya News)

Chiang Mai school cancels controversial 2,000 baht fine for exam failures

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) between a teacher and students in a Chiang Mai secondary school, which required students to pay a fine of 2,000 baht per credit if they failed or scored zero in exams, has been scrapped.

The MOU, which attracted criticism on social media, was not mandated by the school’s administrators but was the initiative of the class teacher. Continued …

Waste more, pay more: Bangkok to up garbage fees

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is to hold a public hearing to consider the new garbage collection and disposal fee this month following the expiration of the current rate on Oct. 1, Bangkok Deputy Gov. Jakkapan Phiewngam said on Monday.

The current rate, which starts at 20 baht per month for collection and another 20 baht for disposal for households with less than 20 liters of garbage per day, was originally scheduled to expire in October 2019 but was postponed in a bid to reduce people’s financial suffering. Continued … 

Bangkok’s priciest pad finds a buyer in a flash

A penthouse at Scope Langsuan in Bangkok swiftly changed hands for 436 million baht (US$11.832 million) just one week after hitting the market, setting a new record as Thailand’s most expensive condominium.

Scope Langsuan is a collaboration between Scope Co. and SC Asset Corp. The condominium is positioned as an ultra-luxury residence targeting an international premium group, with a project investment totaling approximately 7 to 8 billion baht. Continued …

‘Quick Win’ policy launched to lower prices of over 151,000 goods

Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed confidence on Monday that the government’s “Quick Win” policy to reduce the cost of living by reducing consumer goods’ prices would create a “win-win” for both operators and consumers.

Phumtham told a press conference that 288 business operators had agreed to support the measure to reduce prices of 151,675 items of goods and services from now until the end of this year. Phumtham said the operators included 88 manufacturers of foods and necessities and 83 department stores and large retailers. Continued … 

PM urges arms deals delay, to spend on poor instead

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has asked the armed forces to delay their arms procurement plans for the 2024 fiscal year so the government can spend its budget to help those who are most in need, sources said.

The sources said on Monday that Srettha has instructed Defense Minister Sutin Klunsang and the PM’s secretary-general, Prommin Lertsuridej, to hold talks with leaders of the armed forces to ask them to defer their arms procurements for the 2024 fiscal year for the time being. Continued …

Thailand Eyes Leadership in Growing Halal and Future Food Industries

In response to the surging global demand for Halal products and the dynamic landscape of future foods, Thailand is strategically positioning itself as a central figure in these rapidly evolving sectors.

The Thai government has identified the food industry as a pivotal driver of economic stability and is ramping up efforts to harness its potential. Halal products, spanning a wide array of offerings such as finance, food, fashion, media, medicine, and tourism, have been experiencing impressive growth, boasting a remarkable 7.5% increase. This burgeoning industry carries an estimated value of approximately 2 trillion U.S. dollars. Continued …

Chinese EV makers ramp up promotions in Thailand

The popularity of electric cars in Thailand continues to rise, as evidenced by the significant increase in registered vehicles. This growth can be attributed to various factors, mainly driven by government support measures that have made electric cars more affordable.

As the deadline for government incentives at year-end approaches, each automaker is making considerable efforts to introduce new models and promotional campaigns to reduce prices. Continued …

Thailand Wrestles with the Ripple Effects of Cannabis Decriminalization

As the fragrant tendrils of cannabis intertwine with the spicy scents of Thailand’s famed street markets, the nation finds itself entwined in a knotty debate over the recent decriminalization of the much-maligned plant.

Only a year since the momentous shift in drug policy, the lush landscapes of Thailand have seen a “green rush” of cannabis dispensaries emerging like mushrooms in the monsoon season, their roots entwining with the local economies of cities and townships throughout the kingdom. The landscape is transformed, with farmers pivoting from traditional crops to cultivating cannabis and entrepreneurs like Wassaya Iemvijan and Nitikrist Attakrist, former lawyers turned cannabis dispensary owners, navigating the turbid waters of a nascent industry. Continued …

Flights from China to Thailand almost full amid visa waivers

Flights from China to Thailand have been more than 90% full, Thai Airways International says, after Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy temporarily relaxed visa rules for visitors.

“We have seen significant growth in terms of Chinese traffic into Thailand,” the carrier’s Chief Commercial Officer Korakot Chatasingha said in an interview on Monday. Continued …

September tourist arrivals in Phuket drop to 2023 low

The month of September saw a massive drop off of tourism arrivals into Phuket, especially Chinese visitors. September, reliably the lowest month for tourism on the island, delivered a 242,780 visitors compared with 309,253 the month before.

Total Chinese visitation dropped from 64,674 to 37,343, comparing August to September. Continued …

How Thai Food Became A Worldwide Favorite

The global appeal of Thai cuisine is a captivating tale of rich flavors, diversity, and brilliant marketing. Its passage from humble, indigenous beginnings to becoming a worldwide phenomenon is a testament to its unique blend of ingredients, gastronomic techniques, and the concerted efforts of the government.

The history of Thai cuisine is deeply intertwined with the nation’s cultural, geographic, and historical dynamics. Rooted in the traditions of Thailand, formerly known as Siam, Thai cuisine has evolved over centuries, incorporating influences from neighboring countries such as China, India, and Indonesia. This fusion of flavors and cooking methods laid the foundation for what the rest of the world now knows and loves as Thai cuisine. Continued …

Shining a light on Phitsanulok, Thailand’s hidden vintage gem

Hidden in the shadow of the World Heritage site next door, Phitsanulok is a five-hour drive north from Bangkok, a short plane trip or a wonderfully scenic train ride through sleepy stations and countryside.

This beautiful historic city tends to be ignored by travelers heading to UNESCO-listed Sukhothai, Siam’s first capital and a major magnet for both Thai and foreign tourists. But those who do stop here are rewarded with sights and sounds of one of Thailand’s oldest cities, complete with palaces and ancient religious sites which can easily be explored in a day. Continued …

Top Temples to Visit in Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is home to some of the most stunning temples in the world. The country’s religion is predominantly Buddhism, and these temples serve as important spiritual and cultural landmarks. However, despite people’s religious backgrounds, they must not miss the opportunity to visit these beautiful temples during their stay in Bangkok.

The intricate architecture and exquisite craftsmanship found in these temples are a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Thailand. Exploring these sacred sites offers a unique insight into the spiritual practices and beliefs of the Thai people, making it an enriching experience for travelers of all backgrounds. Continued …

6 reasons why you should head back to Ayutthaya

The city may be known for the nation’s grand historic battle, elephant rides, and picturesque sceneries, but when it comes to food, Ayutthaya promises a gastronomic journey that is equally tasteful and wholesome to any other food destinations in Thailand. Here’s what to eat in Ayutthaya’s at the city’s best and coolest spots.

You may think that Ayutthaya’s charm is only limited to seeing temple ruins and witnessing historical buildings. But in reality, the place has seen a more vibrant scene of new cafes, restaurants, and bars. Bookmark these spots for dining out after your temple trips. Continued …

Hungarian, US scientists win medicine Nobel for Covid-19 vaccine work

Two scientists won the Nobel Prize in medicine on Monday for discoveries that enabled the creation of mRNA vaccines against Covid-19 that were critical in slowing the pandemic. And the technology could be used in the future to develop shots against other diseases like cancer and lupus. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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
bangkok, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Oct 2

  • Today’s news: Hua Hin Bar celebrates anniversary/Understanding Thailand’s New Tax Directive/Air Quality and Its Effects on Health/Torrential rains inundate Thailand/Flood warning issued for 10 provinces/Where is Blackpink headed?/Senator Pornthip Shown The Door/Paper Bag Packaging/When Srettha Talks About the Poor/Thailand’s New Calculus/EV market raising skill gap concerns/Second thoughts about decriminalizing cannabis/Pattaya Medical Cannabis Festivals/Influx of Chinese tourists/$4 Billion from China Tourism After Waivers/Historical Park battles overcrowding/Medical Tourism Significant Global Industry/Krabi: world of the Neanderthals/Nan celebrates rhinoceros beetles/Fiery Affair with Mala Hotpot/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Hua Hin Bar celebrates anniversary

The Hua Hin Bar on Soi 80 is celebrating its anniversary this Friday, from Happy Hour on:

  • with free buffet
  • a live band
  • door prizes
  • 8-ball challenge competition

Oh, and maybe the best happy hour prices in town!

Come join the fun! Located near the railway end of Soi 80.

Understanding Thailand’s New Tax Directive on Foreign Income

The Revenue Department of Thailand recently issued Directive No. 161/2566, dated Sept. 15, stipulating that individuals with foreign-sourced income must include it in their tax calculations for the year they repatriate the income to Thailand. The directive takes effect from Jan. 1, 2024.

The directive is grounded in Section 41 Paragraph 2 of Thailand’s Revenue Code, which establishes the principle that tax obligations are determined by one’s residence in Thailand. According to the section, anyone residing in Thailand for at least 180 days within a tax year and generating income abroad from employment or assets must include that income when filing taxes if the money is brought into Thailand within the same tax year. Continued …

Understanding Air Quality and Its Effects on Health

In the age of increasing environmental concerns, the quality of the air we breathe has become a pressing issue. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the various aspects of air quality, from the sources of air pollution to its impact on human health and the measures we can take to ensure cleaner air.

Our mission is to equip you with a thorough understanding of air quality, empowering you to make informed decisions and take actions that can contribute to a healthier environment. Continued …

Torrential rains inundate large swathes of Thailand

Many provinces across the country, mostly in the north, were heavily flooded on Saturday following overnight downpours. Among the provinces most affected by flooding are Phrae, Lampang, Mae Hong Son, and Phitsanulok in the north, and Prachinburi in the east.

In Phrae, a large area of the province covering Den Chai, Sung Men, and Muang districts was hit by flash floods on Saturday following heavy rainfall the previous night. Continued …

Flood warning issued for 10 provinces and Bangkok, as rains threaten Chao Phraya River

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) issued a flood warning for 10 provinces and Bangkok, highlighting the risk to low-lying areas outside the Chao Phraya River’s embankments from tomorrow.

This warning follows the report from the Irrigation Department about the influence of the monsoon trough causing heavy rains in the northern region, leading to an increase in the river’s water volume and the flow into water reservoirs. Continued …

Where is Blackpink headed?

From disbandment to solo labels, rumors snowball amid YG’s silence. Will Blackpink continue or will the group disband? Are the members moving to a different label or will they go independent?

Rumors have been swirling as K-pop’s biggest girl group and its agency, YG Entertainment, remain silent on the future, despite their seven-year contract having apparently reached the end of its term in August. Continued …

Thai Owner Of Shop In Iceland Shows Senator Pornthip The Door

Senator Khunying Pornthip Rojanasunan is in the eye of social media storm after a TikTok video went viral showing a Thai man telling a woman with colorful hair to leave his shop in Reykjavík, Iceland, because he does not like what she did to Thailand, and it was later confirmed that it was the senator who was kicked out.

This video attracted a lot of comments, with some agreeing with the shop owner’s action while others disagreed yet others asked about Dr. Pornthip taking leave from her parliamentary duties to go on this trip. Continued …

Paper Bag Packaging Eco-Friendly Solutions for Businesses

In today’s world, where sustainability is a growing concern, businesses are under increasing pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices across all aspects of their operations.

(Editor: Trees used for paper production are a renewable resource, with millions of acres currently devoted to tree farming globally.)

One significant area where this shift is occurring is in packaging. Traditional packaging materials like plastic have long been criticized for their detrimental impact on the environment. From pollution to overflowing landfills, the cost of convenience has been high. Continued …

When Thai Billionaire PM Srettha Talks About the Poor

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin last week rightly highlighted the need to think about the poor and underprivileged people. First, it was announced on Thursday that the-real estate-billionaire-turned-PM has decided not to accept his monthly salary and donate them to different charities instead. It was a good gesture and the first of his 125,590-baht monthly salary went to the Foundation for Children, which assists needy school children.

On Friday, the PM, while giving a keynote speech at a symposium, warned well-heeled attendees to be careful not to flaunt their wealth on social as it would make ordinary and poor people feel even more inadequate about their lot in life. Continued …

Thailand’s New Calculus: US-China-India Triad

Thailand, under the leadership of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, faces a complex diplomatic challenge as it seeks to maneuver the shifting dynamics of the U.S.-China-India triad.

Historically balancing its relations between China and the United States, Thailand now confronts the emergence of India as a formidable diplomatic alternative. This is to ascertain Thailand’s concerns about China’s economic slowdown and its desire to diversify its economy beyond tourism, with India offering technological know-how and investment opportunities. India’s diplomatic finesse could also serve as a bridge between Thailand’s relationships with China and the United States. Continued …

Buoyant EV market raising skill gap concerns

The electric vehicle (EV) market in Thailand is growing rapidly, thanks largely to the government’s promotional packages to incentivize both car manufacturing and consumers, high fuel costs and increasing awareness about emissions from road-based transportation.

That’s good news for the country and the environment, but there are real concerns among educational institutes and the auto industry at a widening skill gap. Continued …

Why Thailand’s having second thoughts about decriminalizing cannabis

Opening a cannabis dispensary wasn’t always top of the list of Wassaya Iemvijan’s ambitions. The former lawyer, from the Thai capital Bangkok, first turned to the plant as a form of “alternative care” to cope with stress and settle her mind.

“I struggled with depression for many years,” Iemvijan said. “It was weed that helped me… So when it was decriminalized, we decided to set up a shop.” Continued …

Pattaya Promises to Pack April 2024 with Medical Cannabis Festivals

In the wake of two consecutive years of resounding success, Pattaya is reaffirming its position as the global epicenter for medical cannabis-related activities in 2024.

Friday at the Pattaya City Hall, CISW Holding Group, in collaboration with CISW International, CISW European Wellness World, CISW Green World, and Bio Consult, held a press conference to announce the upcoming tourism events, namely the CISW International Cultural and Wellness Tourism Carnival 2024 (CWTC 2024) and the CISW Med Cann Festival International 2024 (CMC 2024). Continued …

Golden Week brings influx of Chinese tourists

The Golden Week has begun, with hotel bookings in Thailand surging during the Chinese holidays compared to last year.

Chinese travelers have increased foreign travel bookings by up to 20 times during the extended Golden Week holiday, which this year encompasses both the mid-autumn festival and the National Day of China, compared to the same period last year. Continued …

Thailand Expects $4 Billion from China Tourism After Visa Waivers

Thailand expects to attract 2.9 million arrivals and billions of dollars in revenue from a Chinese tourism boom as a result of a new five-month holiday period visa exemption program, part of a bid to help strengthen the nation’s wobbly economic recovery.

The Southeast Asian nation has already seen a strong response after temporarily waiving visas for mainland visitors from Sept. 25 through next February: More than 22,000 Chinese travelers entered Thailand in the program’s first two days, government spokesman Chai Wacharonke said Sunday on an official Facebook page. Thailand expects 140.3 billion baht ($3.8 billion) in tourism revenue from the program, Chai said. Continued …

Si Thep Historical Park battles overcrowding

A significant influx of visitors to Si Thep Historical Park in Phetchabun sparked concerns among officials, following its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list on Sept. 19. The province was ill-prepared for the escalated tourist numbers, leading to calls for immediate action to protect the park and manage the crowds.

Chatchaval Benchasiriwong, the deputy governor of Phetchabun, stated on Sunday that the province had failed to implement necessary measures to manage the park after it was initially added to UNESCO’s tentative list in 2019. He revealed that the number of daily visitors had skyrocketed from 300 to approximately 7,000. Continued …

Medical Tourism Emerging as A Significant Global Industry

According to Market.us Media, the medical tourism industry is booming, with annual growth estimated at 15-25%. Patients are drawn to popular destinations like Thailand, Mexico, India, Turkey, Malaysia, Costa Rica, and Singapore due to substantial cost savings of 40%-80%.

Remarkably, over 90% of medical tourists express high satisfaction with their care. This thriving industry contributes over $100 billion annually to the global economy. Continued … 

Krabi, where the world of the Neanderthals and modern collide

Krabi, located in the southern part of Thailand, is, without a doubt, one of the most popular and loved tourist destinations in Thailand. Krabi is mostly known for its stunning beach destinations and vibrant party scenes. But did you know that this same town holds the record for having the longest history of continuous settlement in Thailand?

Think prehistoric. The charming and relatively small town of Krabi, beyond its beaches, is a treasure trove of historical facts. A number of prehistoric remains of cavemen (Neanderthals) were discovered from the limestone caves surrounding the town of Krabi. These remains date back to around 30,000 BC. Continued …

Nan celebrates rhinoceros beetles with caravan and festival

The annual “Siamese Rhinoceros Beetle” festival in Nan province’s Pua district kicked off on Saturday and will continue until Oct. 8. This festival aims to increase tourism, promote culture and preserve traditions.

Provincial Deputy Gov. Kritphet Petchaburanin presided over the opening ceremony on Saturday with thousands of local residents, as well as Thai and foreign tourists, attending the event. Continued …

In Love with Spice: Thailand’s Fiery Affair with Mala Hotpot

Even as Thai cuisine is making its mark worldwide, with many dishes earning titles like “world’s best”, local Thais, especially the younger generation, have developed a fondness for Sichuan cuisine’s hotpot, known as mala.

The proliferation of mala hotpot restaurants has been nothing short of phenomenal, to the extent that enjoying a mala meal has become commonplace among the younger crowd. Continued …

Video Provides First Clear Views Of WWII Aircraft Carriers Lost at Midway

Video 

Footage from deep in the Pacific Ocean has given the first detailed look at three World War II aircraft carriers that sank in the pivotal Battle of Midway and could help solve mysteries about the days-long barrage that marked a shift in control of the Pacific theater from Japanese to U.S. Forces. Continued …

South Korea speeds up efforts to outlaw dog meat consumption

Legislative efforts to end dog meat consumption in South Korea are picking up speed amid rare political unity following the presidential office’s outspoken support for ending the centuries-old practice. Continued …

Indonesia to launch China-funded high-speed rail, first in Southeast Asia

Indonesia is set to launch Southeast Asia’s first high-speed railway today, a delayed multi-billion-dollar project backed by China that will cut travel between capital Jakarta and another major city by hours. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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
cha am, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, solar, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Sept 28

Today’s news: Retiring solo tips and tricks/Cha Am resort named to Hall of Fame/It’s national flag/Downpours continue/Standards to hire foreign teachers questioned/Sky Doctor Teams to Expand Nationwide/Thailand’s next top cop/Lopburi monkey invasion/‘News fees’ unacceptable/Thailand to launch its second Earth satellite/Factory output down7.5%/BoT hikes interest rate/Year-end bonuses/Call for clarification on labor laws/Prime Road looks to expand solar/Call to Regulate Weed Worries Some/Balancing cannabis use/From the Thai Cannabis Industry/China’s global travelers pull back/Visiting Pattaya For The First Time/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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Retiring solo: Tips and tricks for single retirees in Thailand

Thailand has always been popular as a retirement destination, and it’s easy to see why. One of the main things that attract solo retirees to the country is its affordability. Compared to numerous Western countries, the cost of living in Thailand is considerably lower.

Of course, the cost of living mainly depends on your lifestyle. But, in general, the country allows you to stretch your retirement savings further while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle compared to countries like the UK, the U.S., and Australia. Continued …

Cha Am’s Ace of Hua Hin Resort named to tourism Hall of Fame

The 14th Thailand Tourism Awards yesterday recognized 254 Thai tourism enterprises for quality and excellence in tourism and hospitality operations, while underlining Thailand’s new direction towards high-value and sustainable tourism. The presentation ceremony was held at the Samyan Mitrtown Hall in Bangkok and held on World Tourism Day as a symbolic gesture of recognition that builds awareness for responsible and sustainable tourism.

This year, nine Thai tourism enterprises received the Hall of Fame awards: five in the attractions category – Phetchabun Intrachai Archaeology Hall (Phetchabun), Dhanabaadee Ceramic Museum (Lampang), Chae Son National Park (Lampang), Khon Kaen Zoo, and Royal Park Rajapruek (Chiang Mai); and four in the accommodation category – Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort (Krabi), Ace of Hua Hin Resort (Phetchaburi), Zira Spa Chiang Mai, and Kamalaya Spa (Surat Thani). Continued …

Thailand celebrates its national flag today

The design of Thailand’s flag was adopted on Sept. 28, 1917, and since 2016, that day has been marked as a national day.

The flag shows five horizontal stripes in the colors red, white, blue, white and red, with the central blue stripe being twice as wide as each of the other four. The red stands for the land and people, white for religion and blue for the monarchy. Continued …

Downpours continue for much of Thailand

Scattered heavy rain, torrential in some areas, is forecast for the north, the northeast, the central including the Bangkok metropolitan area, the east, and the south of Thailand today and tomorrow, the Thai Meteorological Department warned today.

These conditions are brought by the weakening active low-pressure cell over the western part of the north and the monsoon trough lying across upper Thailand, the department said. Continued …

Standards used to hire foreign teachers questioned

A TikTok clip of two young foreign women boasting they were teaching children in a “random town in Thailand” with no qualifications sparked outrage when it was shared on social media.

The clip shows two foreign women, possibly 18 years old, playfully pointing to captions that read: “You guys can’t just travel forever, when are you gonna go uni or get a job? Us in a random town in Thailand teaching kids with no qualifications.” Continued …

Sky Doctor Teams to Expand Nationwide in 100 Days

The administration is poised to expand the reach of emergency medical services with the launch of “Sky Doctor” teams across all healthcare zones in the country.

The 100-day initiative aims to provide rapid medical attention in emergency cases, especially in remote and traffic-congested areas. Continued …

Police Gen Torsak to become Thailand’s next top cop

The Police Commission, chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has selected Deputy National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol as the new head of the nation’s police force, replacing Police Gen. Damrongsak Kittipraphat, who is set to retire at the end of this month.

The selection of the new police chief was initially the last item on the meeting’s agenda, but it was moved to the top. Torsak, who retires next year, is the most junior of the deputies, being the most recent to be appointed. Continued …

Lopburi homeowners swing into action against monkey invasion

Homeowners in Lopburi province are calling for assistance from authorities as they battle an ongoing monkey invasion. The primates are wreaking havoc, causing significant damage to the properties and possessions of Lopburi residents and homeowners who are living in fear.

A user on TikTok has highlighted the severity of the issue by posting a distressing clip of monkeys vandalizing a home to the point where the occupants had to construct a metal cage and store their belongings in cupboards to keep them safe. Continued …

‘News fees’ unacceptable and clear breach of professional ethics

Thailand’s seven key media organizations have announced they are forming a committee to investigate the incident in which Thai journalists allegedly accepted money from the deputy national police chief in exchange for reporting news, saying that the action is a serious breach of professional ethics.

The statement referred to a recent interview given by deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police, Police Gen. Surachate”Big Joke” Hakparn, who said that he had paid money to journalists as a “news fee”, as well as offered other assistance because he understood that journalists have low salaries. Continued … 

Thailand to launch its second Earth satellite next week

Thailand is set to launch it second Earth observation satellite, THEOS-2, on Oct. 7 from the Guiana space center in South America, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space technology development.

The launch was announced on Wednesday at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovations by representatives of Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GITSDA), Airbus and the French embassy. Continued … 

Factory output down 7.5%, bigger than forecast

Thailand’s manufacturing production index (MPI) in August dropped 7.53% from a year earlier, the Industry Ministry said today, as exports were sluggish amid soft global demand.

The figure compared with a forecast for a 6.5% year-on-year drop for August in a Reuters poll, and followed July’s 4.43% decline. – Bangkok Post

BoT hikes interest rate to 10-year high

The Bank of Thailand on Wednesday raised its benchmark interest rate to the highest level in 10 years, as it moved pre-emptively to check inflationary pressures from the government’s proposed economic stimulus.

The central bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted unanimously to increase the one-day repurchase rate by a quarter-point to 2.50%, as predicted by 10 of 21 economists in a Bloomberg survey. The rest had expected no change. Continued …

Thai companies make it rain with year-end bonuses

At least 10 renowned Thai companies are set to distribute generous year-end bonuses for 2023. The highest bonus reported is 7.3 months’ salary plus an additional 37,000 baht.

Some of the companies declaring bonuses include IHI Turbo Thailand, Jtekt (Thailand), Siam Toyota, Siam ATT I-Shin, Trimotive, SIAM DENSO KYOSAN, IJT Thailand, TTK, TBKK, and Sumitomo Rubber Thailand, with bonus amounts ranging from 3 to 7.42 months’ salary, along with additional cash rewards. Continued …

Foreigners call for clarification on labor laws, new stimulus packages

Foreign business leaders in Thailand are urging the government for political stability and transparency as they roll out stimulus packages to boost the country’s economy. The people interviewed support the “digital wallet” scheme but emphasize the need for transparency in its implementation.

The new Srettha Thavisin government is planning to launch a 10,000-baht digital wallet stimulus for all Thais over 18 next year. Vibeke Lyssand Leirvag, Chairwoman of the Joint Foreign Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of transparency in implementing the digital wallet scheme, which aims to enhance domestic purchasing power Continued …

Thailand’s Prime Road looks to expand solar business

Growing concern over climate change is helping Prime Road Power, an operator of solar farms and provider of solar panel installation services, expand its business, with the aim to increase clean power generation capacity to 1,800 megawatts across Asia within five years, says chairman and founder Somprasong Panjalak. The company’s current capacity is 307.5MW.

Domestically, Prime Road Power and the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand formed a joint venture named Prime Industrial Energy to promote solar power development at industrial estates. Continued … 

PM’s Call to Regulate Weed Worries Some Cannabis Advocates

Thailand’s new prime minister has vowed to permit the use of cannabis for medical purposes only, a little more than year after his country became the first in Asia to decriminalize weed.

Some advocates in Thailand warn that banning the leisure use of marijuana could be chaotic and costly, while others say it could help bring order to the rapidly expanding industry. Continued …

Balancing cannabis use

The future of cannabis for medical use is again in question, with new Public Health Minister Dr. Cholnan Srikaew last week pledging to review the current cannabis policy laid by his predecessor, Anutin Charnvirakul, head of the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT).

The change comes after the rise in youth consumption of the drug for recreational purposes and the proliferation of recreational cannabis shops in big cities, some of which are located near schools. Continued …

From the Thai Cannabis Industry – A Brief Overview of Our Goings on in Southeast Asia

Ganja. Bong. Kush. Hashish. All terms we have been using in the world of cannabis for years, rarely pausing to consider what their source is, or what they can inform us of the history of the plant we are building our careers and business on.

If we spent more time these days reading history books than taking pictures of our food, we might have discovered that the source of all of these terms is the same area of the world, one which has often been more relegated to tourist status than consideration as a major anchor point and potential disruptor to the global cannabis industry. Continued …

China’s global travelers pull back amid uncertainty

More Chinese travelers are delaying outbound plans amid economic uncertainty, according to a new survey, potentially rough news for countries depending on one of the world’s biggest source of tourists.

A September survey by consultancy Oliver Wyman found that 54% of respondents – all experienced travelers who had been abroad before the pandemic shut Chinese borders – said they planned to travel in 2023, down from 62% polled in June. Continued …

Must-Do Things If Visiting Pattaya For The First Time

Pattaya, nestled along the Gulf of Thailand, is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and a wide array of attractions that cater to travelers of all types.

If you are planning your first visit to this tropical paradise, you’re in for a treat. To ensure you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled a list of must-do things to help you experience the best that Pattaya offers. Continued …

Indonesia bans e-commerce transactions on social media

Indonesia has banned e-commerce transactions on social media platforms, the trade minister said on Wednesday, in a blow to short video app TikTok, which is doubling down on Southeast Asia’s biggest economy to boost its e-commerce business. Continued …

Brazil’s banana spider aids erectile dysfunction treatment

Three decades ago, Brazilian researchers began studying a curious side effect from banana spider bites: the toxin left victims with priapism, a painful and persistent erection. Continued …

US sues Amazon for running illegal monopoly

A top antitrust regulator in the United States sued Amazon on Tuesday, accusing the online retail behemoth of running an illegal monopoly by strong-arming sellers and stifling potential rivals. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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

 

baht, bangkok, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Sept 27

Today’s news: Hua Hin to host major ITF tennis/Hua Hin ‘ Reminiscing the Past’/Thai rock group to perform/Hua Hin Invitational 7s/Power tariff reduced/Thailand Relaxes Baht Rules/Heavy rainfall expected/Flood misery for Bangkok/Thai man erects 3 penis statues/US dollar surge hits Asian currencies/500-billion-baht investment budget/EV research center to open investment floodgate/KResearch cuts Thai economic projection/Cabinet Approves Farmer Debt Moratorium/True Corp predicts merger will save 22 billion/WHA in bid to lure US tech firms/7-Eleven’s transformation to 24-hour diner/Stringent regulations for use of cannabis/Top 10 Most Overcrowded Tourist Destinations/Multiple Entry Tourist Visa/Most Popular For Digital Nomads/Klook draws a line/Young tourist found dead/Thai Airways to boost flights/Yakult president lifts lid on secrets/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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Hua Hin to host major ITF tennis tournaments in October and November

Arena Hua Hin is gearing up to host a series of international tennis events that promise to bring world-class competition to Thailand.

The venue has been selected by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) to organize four major tournaments, collectively named “Cal-Comp & CCAU Industry 4.0 Open ITF World Tennis Tour 2023”, from Oct. 8 to Nov. 19. Continued …

Hua Hin ‘ Reminiscing the Past’ event through Monday

Hua Hin is hosting the annual “Hua Hin, Reminiscing the Past” event through this Monday to promote tourism and spotlight the cultural traditions of the region. The event will be held at the event grounds behind the BluPort Shopping Mall.

Thai rock group to perform Saturday

One of Thailand’s most iconic rock bands, Carabao Official, will be on stage at the Long Lay Market at Sam Roi Yat this Saturday. Doors open 6pm, with ticket prices 500 THB. More info at 090-928-6874.

Power tariff reduced, electric bills to follow

The Thai government has swiftly approved a plan to lower the power tariff, with the goal of reducing electricity bills for the public.

The tariff rate has been revised from 4.45 baht to 3.99 baht per kilowatt-hour, applicable from September to December this year. However, for a long-term solution to high electricity costs, a restructuring of the Thai energy price structure may be necessary. Continued …

Thailand Relaxes Rules On Non-Resident Baht Transactions

Thailand’s central bank said on Tuesday it was relaxing some foreign exchange rules for non-residents to improve the ease of doing business in the country.

More flexibility will be given under the non-resident qualified company (NRQC) scheme, the Bank of Thailand (BOT) said in a statement. Continued …

Heavy rainfall expected to soak the nation

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued its 10th heavy rainfall warningtoday , highlighting many areas across the country at risk. The announcement comes in response to a strong low-pressure area covering the northeastern region and a monsoon trough passing over northern Thailand.

These conditions are expected to cause heavy rain in the north, northeast, and central, including Bangkok and nearby provinces, east, and south regions. Continued …

Flood misery for much of the Bangkok metropolitan area

Several areas of the Bangkok metropolitan area, which covers Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Samut Prakan provinces, were inundated on Tuesday evening after hours of torrential rain.

According to the city’s Drainage Department, the highest rainfall was recorded at 8.30pm in Phra Khanong district at 140.5 mm. Flash floods have been reported in several areas, including Soi Pridi Banomyong (Sukhumvit 71), Udomsuk Raod and Bangna districts. Continued …

Thai man erects 3 penis statues for good luck

A retired senior police sergeant major, in the central province of Kampaeng Phet, raised a few titters after he completed an unusual erection on his land, three penis statues. He believes the phallic erections will bring him good luck in selling his land, which is worth 60 million baht.

Three penis statues stand prominently on the land of the 86-year-old Thai man, Thoop Lamoonmorn. The largest one-eyed monster, standing at an impressive 3.5 meters tall, is painted in a pristine white hue and takes center stage. Surrounding it are three smaller penis statues, each measuring about 1.5 meters in height and adorned in gold. Continued …

US dollar surge hits Asian currencies: Thai baht suffers

Asian currencies experienced a dip today, with the Thai baht and Indonesian rupiah bearing the brunt of the losses. This was mainly due to the rising strength of the U.S. dollar, bolstered by robust economic indicators and the threat of inflation from the Federal Reserve, which have pushed U.S. bond yields to a 16-year peak.

The baht saw a fall of up to 0.8%, trading offshore at 36.34 to the dollar, marking its lowest point since Nov. 10, 2022. The rupiah fell by up to 0.6%, its most significant dip in eight months. Continued …

500-billion-baht investment budget approved to boost fiscal growth

Yesterday, the Thai government approved a massive investment budget of 500 billion baht dedicated to 46 state-owned enterprises for the fiscal year 2024, commencing this October. The substantial budget aims to stimulate the national economy and bolster fiscal growth.

Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke detailed the budget allocation, stating that the funding includes 209 billion baht earmarked for ongoing and routine projects. Furthermore, an additional 50 billion baht will be disbursed within the fiscal year. Continued …

Chinese EV research center to open investment floodgate in Thailand

The China Automotive Technology and Research Center (Catarc) is to establish a regional office in Thailand, a move likely to bring substantial Chinese investment to boost Thailand’s position as an electric vehicle (EV) hub.

The move follows negotiations that showcased Thailand’s potential and is expected to bring further investment to drive the “30@30” goal – increasing EV production to 30% of total manufacturing by 2030. Continued …

KResearch cuts its 2023 Thai economic projection from 3.7% to 3.%

KResearch has lowered its 2023 Thai economic growth projection despite increased confidence after the successful government formation. The Thai economy is still grappling with the global economic slowdown, especially the weakening Chinese economy hit by property woes.

Burin Adulwattana, managing director and chief economist, Kasikorn Research Center (KResearch), said, “The global economy is slowing down, impacting global trade. This is evident in the global manufacturing slowdown, especially in China and Germany, which are heavily reliant on exports. China is also hindered by an ailing property sector, which has hurt domestic demand.” Continued …

Cabinet Approves Farmer Debt Moratorium

The Cabinet has approved a three-year debt suspension measure for 2.7 million farmers, which will start on Oct .1.

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said that the Cabinet meeting endorsed the debt suspension measure for small-scale borrowers in line with the government’s Phase 1 policy. Continued … 

True Corp predicts merger will save 22 billion baht

True Corp. CEO Manat Manavutiveth says the company’s merger with Total Access Communications (Dtac) earlier this year will result in cash flow savings of about 22 billion baht from 2026.

The merged company has become the market leader in terms of mobile subscribers, with 33.8 million TrueMove H users and 21.2 million Dtac members. Continued …

WHA in bid to lure US tech firms to Thailand

WHA Corp., one of the country’s largest developers of built-to-suit logistics facilities, expects Thailand to draw more U.S. tech companies to invest in the country next year as they are interested in seeking business opportunities in ASEAN.

Major players such as Google, Microsoft, and Tesla have shown interest in the country’s potential during an investment talk. The event was a part of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s participation in the 78th UN General Assembly in New York, held from Sept. 18-24. Continued …

From dumplings to delicacies: 7-Eleven’s transformation to 24-hour diner

The bakery delights found at 7-Eleven convenience stores in Thailand come from many manufacturers, including companies within the Charoen Pokphand Group (CP Group). One of these companies is CPRAM, which produces the Le Pan brand of baked goods.

Established in 1988, CPRAM has emerged as a strategic asset within CP Group’s arsenal. Initially, 7-Eleven stocked edibles from different leading brands, much like other convenience stores. However, the introduction of CPRAM products transformed 7-Eleven from a mere convenience store to a 24-hour diner. Continued …

Public Health Minister wants stringent regulations to control the use of cannabis

The Minister of Public Health, Cholnan Srikaew, on Tuesday declared his opposition to marijuana use for recreational purposes, and demanded tight regulations to control its use.

The use of marijuana was decriminalized by the previous government, but Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has said that his administration would ensure marijuana use would be restricted for medicinal purposes. Continued …

Top 10 Most Overcrowded Tourist Destinations Worldwide

  1. Phuket, Thailand
  2. Pattaya, Thailand
  3. Krabi, Thailand
  4. Mugla, Turkey
  5. Hurghada, Turkey
  6. Macau, China
  7. Heraklion, Greece
  8. Venice, Italy
  9. Rhodes, Greece
  10. Miami, USA

What is a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa in Thailand and how to maximize it?

Do you have your heart set on spending an extended time basking in the tropical sun, exploring bustling markets, dipping into the rich cultural wonders that Thailand offers, and truly experiencing the country? If yes, the multiple entry tourist visa might be a good option, as it allows you to come and go as you please. But what is it exactly, and what are the benefits?

For those with plans of multiple visits to Thailand, the multiple entry tourist visa might be a good option. This type of visa allows its holder to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days per trip. Continued …

Why Thailand Is One Of The Most Popular Countries In The World For Digital Nomads

After years of uncertainty and a global lockdown, the world of digital nomads is reinventing itself to set new standards for what the norm should be.

Nomads are now working in coworking spaces, slowly traveling from place to place, or starting their own businesses. In the past year or so, the idea of remote work has broken itself down into varying genres, and everyone wants a place! Continued …

Klook draws a line under animal attractions

Klook, one of the leading online travel companies, has launched an animal welfare policy that will see it end the sale of circus-style performances involving elephants, dolphins and tigers, World Animal Protection reported recently.

The policy will come into effect by the end of October 2023, ramping up pressure for more travel companies to follow suit as travelers seek more cruelty-free travel options, the animal protection non-profit organization said. Continued …

Young tourist found dead after hit by off-limits speedboat

The body of a missing 22-year-old Russian swimmer hit by a Pattaya speedboat that entered an off-limits zone was found on rocks off Haad Tian on Koh Larn on Wednesday morning.

Enrike Rakhman and his 20-year-old Thai girlfriend were swimming off the beach on Monday and were both struck by the speedboat. Haad Tian is off-limits to speedboats. Continued …

Thai Airways to boost international flights

Thai Airways International (THAI) has unveiled an ambitious plan to expand its international flight offerings in the forthcoming high season. The airline’s primary focus is to draw in a higher number of tourists.

A notable feature of this expansion is the airline’s decision to recommence flights to Istanbul, Turkey, which is a significant aviation hub for Asia, Europe, and Africa. Continued …

Yakult president lifts lid on secrets of iconic Thai yoghurt drink

Yakult Thailand President Kanokpan Hetrakul offered to reveal secrets of the probiotic yoghurt drink that Thais have been slurping for over 50 years. But before answering questions, Kanokpan gave a quick history of Yakult, which was formulated by Japanese microbiologist Minoru Shirota in 1935.

He developed the Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain of bacteria to boost gut health and regular bowel habits, she explained. Continued … 

Fire at a wedding hall in Iraq kills more than 100 people

A raging fire seemingly caused by fireworks set off to celebrate a Christian wedding consumed a hall packed with guests in northern Iraq, killing at least 100 people and injuring 150 others, as authorities warned the death toll could still rise. Continued …

”I guarantee you, I will take India among top-3 economies’: PM Modi

PM Modi said India was able to speed up growth and become the fastest-growing economy due to political stability, policy clarity, and democratic values. On Tuesday, he told the country’s youth, “I guarantee you that I will take India among the top three economies of the world. I need your support and association for the country and its 140 crore people.” Continued …

Trump committed fraud by inflating value of assets: judge

Donald Trump and his sons Eric and Don Jr. committed fraud by inflating the value of the real estate and financial assets of the Trump Organization for years, a New York judge ruled on Tuesday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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

 

bangkok, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 25

Today’s news: Today’s Guest Sponsors/Essential tips for Thai visa/Foreign income tax changes/Man suspected of murdering five children/Suspected killer’s third wife arrested/’Big Joke’ homes raided/What are transfer fees in Thailand/Barclays Bank to close UK accountsThai businesses wary of proposed minimum wage/Tesla, Google, Microsoft to invest $5 billion?/Trade conflicts, worsening climate/Ministry to review Thai nominee deals/Thailand to go ahead with bridging Andaman-Gulf/Banpu sees profits in green energy/Pot to be criminalized/Visa-free initiative starts/Applications for visas in China soar/Rise in expatriate residence/Thaicom targets tourists/Thailand in talks with Germany/UNESCO listing sparks surge to Sri Thep/Tourist destinations overrun by travelers/Secrets of Si Thep/Mo Paeng Waterfall/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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Today’s Guest Sponsors

One of the goals of Expat News over the past almost eight years has been to help improve the fortunes of expat Hua Hin businesses. Below are three examples of local companies providing services/products of interest to our readers. Please mention that you saw their ad in Expat News if you contact them.

Essential tips for getting your Thai visa in Bangkok

It’s very easy to get a Thai visa. This is the case because Thailand as a country is dedicated to making it easy for foreigners to get a Thai visa. Most people figure out that visiting Bangkok for Thai visa service is a good option. Getting a local company to assist you in all your visa requirements will make the entire process easier. But it’s best if you’re prepared and ever aware of everything that you need to know even before going to Bangkok.

This is why we prepared this guide for you. To make your Thai visa application easier, you need to keep the following in mind: Continued …

What is the real deal with proposed foreign income tax changes?

Video 

PM’s push for water mega-projects triggers flood of concern

Concerned Thais and environmentalists have expressed alarm at Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s support for a 2.2-trillion-baht water-management project on the Mekong, Chi and Mun rivers.

“I hope the prime minister will not rush to give the project a green light. I really hope he will study the information carefully before making a decision,” said Asst. Prof. Sitang Pilailar, a water-management expert at Kasetsart University’s Faculty of Engineering. Continued …

Man with four wives suspected of murdering five of his 10 children

Police in the Bang Khen area of Bangkok this week were investigating another possible serial killer after it emerged that a 46-year-old man with four wives and a history of violent domestic abuse, but who claims mental illness, may have murdered five of his 10 children in the period from 2012 up to this month when he allegedly murdered his two-year-old daughter.

Songsak Songsaeng was committed to prison on Friday when he appeared in court on multiple charges linked with the death of his daughter, while police are still investigating the death of four of his sons from 2012 to 2017. Continued …

Suspected killer’s third wife arrested on murder charges relating to 4 infant boys

The third wife of the suspected serial killer, 46-year-old Songsak Songsaeng, was arrested by police on Friday on charges including murder. She appeared before the Criminal Court on Saturday in connection with the deaths of four infants between 2013 and 2018.

Jessada Meepian is the 33-year-old mother of a 12-year-old girl, Wiyada, the only surviving child out of five from the relationship between the pair who, it was revealed, on Friday, alerted authorities and activists to the murder of a two-year-old girl at the hands of Songsak and his fourth wife Sunan Nahuanin, the mother of the baby girl. Both parents were already committed by the Criminal Court on Friday on charges related to that murder. Continued …

‘Big Joke’ accused of being involved in online gambling operation

Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officers raided the home of Royal Thai Police (RTP) Deputy Commissioner Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn this morning over allegations of his involvement in an online gambling operation. Big Joke denied the allegation and refused to allow officers to enter his home.

CCIB officers attempted to raid five houses owned by Big Joke in Soi Vibhawadee 60 near the Police Sports Club in Bangkok’s Lak Si district at 8am today. One of the houses is Big Joke’s home, while the other four provide accommodation for members of his team. Continued …

What are transfer fees in Thailand property purchase and who pays them?

Like any property market, purchasing property in Thailand will incur additional expenses and fees. Before buying a property, you might come across transfer fees, business tax, and stamp duty during your research, but what are they? And who’s responsible for paying them? Here’s what you need to know.

Transfer Fee

The Thailand Land Department charges 2% over the appraised value of the property. Continued …

Barclays Bank to close UK accounts for British expats

Barclays Bank has announced its decision to terminate the UK current and savings accounts for British expatriates living overseas, a move that comes after a review of the bank’s international offerings initiated in 2021.

This will affect numerous British citizens residing in countries like Thailand, among others. Continued …

Thai businesses wary of proposed 400-baht minimum wage

The business sector has expressed concerns over the possible negative effects of the proposed daily minimum wage increase to 400 baht.

The announcement, made by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, could lead to higher costs for consumers. Industries that rely heavily on labor, such as agriculture, food export, retail trade, and construction, would be most affected by the wage increase, according to Pisit Puapan, director of the Fiscal Policy Office’s Bureau of Macroeconomic Policy. Continued …

PM expects Tesla, Google, Microsoft to invest $5 billion in Thailand

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Sunday the country expected to receive investment of at least $5 billion from Tesla, Google and Microsoft.

“Tesla would be looking into an EV manufacturing facility, Microsoft and Google are looking at data centers,” he said, without detailing whether the $5 billion was expected to be a combined investment or made individually by each company. Continued …

Trade conflicts, worsening climate, spread of fake news will impact Thai economy

Global geopolitical conflicts, climate change and fake news are posing a threat to Thailand’s economy and worsening the social divide, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) warned recently.

Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the NESDC, said ongoing geopolitical conflicts between world superpowers have led to a rivalry not just over military and security matters, but also on economic issues. Continued …

Ministry implements rigorous review process for business to deter Thai nominee deals

The Commerce Ministry’s Department of Business Development has launched a more-thorough investigation into businesses set up under nominee arrangements. This practice has been found to be common in the property, tourism and resort industries.

Nominee arrangements see Thai partners holding shares on behalf of foreigners, often to bypass the requirement of foreign business licenses stipulated in the 1999 Foreign Business Act. Continued …

Thailand to go ahead with bridging Andaman-Gulf coasts to boost southern economy

Newly appointed Industry Minister Pimpattra Wichaikul reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC)’s Land Bridge Project, saying all steps will be taken to expedite the initiative. She was speaking to the press on Saturday after returning from a two-day trip to Chumphon.

Pimpattra explained that the project aims to connect the coasts of the Andaman Sea on the west and the Gulf of Thailand, particularly the provinces of Chumphon and Ranong. Continued …

Banpu sees profits in transition to green energy and net-zero emissions

Banpu’s first carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) system and facility is due to start operating in the fourth quarter of this year, a development its CEO, Somruedee Chaimongkol, described as a milestone.

The announcement was made during a panel discussion on Friday called “A Closer Look at Banpu Group’s Strategic Progress Towards 2025 Transition Goals”. It highlighted the company’s accomplishments, as well as the future direction of its four flagship businesses: mining, gas, power, and energy technology. Continued …

Pot to be criminalized despite widespread business activity

The future of thousands of small businesses in Thailand that have thrived in the kingdom’s post-deregulation cannabis market, which is now one of the world’s most open, is on the line as the Pheu Thai-led government readies its plan to tackle the issue.

The widespread use of marijuana, however, is not receiving the support it had hoped for from the recovering foreign tourism industry and is strongly opposed by the public. Continued …

Thailand’s visa-free initiative for Chinese, Kazakhstani starts

Chinese and Kazakhstani tourists will be welcomed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at Suvarnabhumi Airport tomorrow, signaling the start of the government’s new visa-free initiative.

Srettha will be accompanied by a delegation of ministers and officials at a reception organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to greet Chinese travelers aboard Thai AirAsia X flight XJ761, scheduled to arrive from Shanghai to Bangkok at 10.15am. Continued …

Applications for visas in China soar before holiday

Chinese travelers have shown ever-increasing enthusiasm for traveling abroad this year, and the trend is on track to become more prominent for the rest of the year, fueling a growing demand for visa applications.

The upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday, which land at the same time this year, form an eight-day period from Friday to Oct. 6, and more Chinese visitors are foreseen to venture overseas during the holidays. Continued …

Rise in expatriate residence in Thailand prompts tourism benefits plan

Thailand’s popularity as a residence of choice for expatriates and remote workers is on the rise. As per the data from the Employment Department and Colliers Thailand, the first quarter of this year saw an increase of 156,596 expatriates, with over half based in Bangkok.

The leading nationalities were Japanese, Chinese and Indian last year. In addition, recent reports show an increased interest among Chinese nationals in purchasing condominium units in Thailand. Continued …

Thaicom targets tourists with launch of tracking service

Satellite operator Thaicom plans to launch Spot Gen 4 as the country’s first tracking service via a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite in the fourth quarter of this year, targeting the tourism and maritime industries in Thailand and the region.

The move follows a commercial partnership signed last year between Thaicom and Globalstar relating to the narrow-band LEO satellite business. Globalstar is a global LEO satellite operator and a leading provider of satellite internet of things (IoT) solutions and mobile satellite services. Continued …

Thailand in talks with Germany for visa-free entry to the EU

The Thai Foreign Ministry is seeking visa exemptions for Thais to enter the European Union (EU) and has asked Germany to support the idea by pointing to potential opportunities, including increased tourism to the EU.

The idea was discussed by Panpree Phahitthanukorn, who is also deputy prime minister for economic and foreign affairs, and German Deputy Foreign Minister Tobias Lindner, according to the Thai Foreign Ministry. Continued …

UNESCO listing sparks surge of tourists to unprepared Sri Thep

Tourists have been racing to Sri Thep since the ancient city in Phetchabun province was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but local residents have been caught off guard by the influx and services for visitors remain minimal.

“It’s truly unfortunate that the local community couldn’t catch up in time, resulting in no facilities or services to benefit from the significant influx of tourists,” Phetchabun Gov. Wison Kositanont wrote online. Continued …

10 most-visited tourist destinations overrun by travelers

Traveling the world has never been more accessible, and as a result, many countries are experiencing an influx of tourists. While this can provide economic benefits, it can also lead to crowded destinations and over-tourism. Here, is a list of the 10 most-visited countries globally, shedding light on their tourist footfalls and how it is affecting them, according to Moneytransfers.com.

No 1. City: Phuket, Thailand – Phuket tops the list with its stunning natural beauty, well-developed tourism infrastructure, and excellent value for money. Phuket, the largest Thai island, attracts a staggering 118.5 tourists for every resident in the city. While it’s known as an over-touristed city, most tourists use it as a steppingstone to explore the country’s beautiful beaches and islands. Continued …

The Secrets of Si Thep

Visiting the ancient town of Si Thep is now at the top of many travellers’ wish lists, thanks to UNESCO’s recent recognition of it as a World Cultural Heritage site. Located in Phetchabun Province, 450 kilometres north of Bangkok, the ancient town of Si Thep has likely sat quietly along the Lop Buri-Pasak River Basin since prehistoric times.

Known as the “Lost Hindu Town” in the archives of the Siamese Royal Court, Prince Damrong Rajanubhab, a visionary historian, rediscovered the ancient town of Si Thep in 1904. He was led to the town by locals in Phetchabun province and found the legendary city abandoned in the forested land. Continued …

Mo Paeng Waterfall: A refreshing oasis in the heart of Pai’s mountains

Nestled in the mountains of Pai, Mo Paeng Waterfall beckons travelers to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and indulge in the tranquility of natural surroundings.

This community-based eco-tourism gem, located in the lush northern province of Mae Hong Son, promises tourists a rejuvenating escape. Continued …

NASA’s First Asteroid Samples Land On Earth

NASA’s first asteroid samples fetched from deep space parachuted into the Utah desert Sunday to cap a seven-year journey. In a flyby of Earth, the Osiris-Rex spacecraft released the sample capsule from 63,000 miles (100,000 kilometers) out. The small capsule landed four hours later on a remote expanse of military land, as the mothership set off after another asteroid. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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
baht, cha am, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Sept 23

Today’s news: Baht expected to continue slide/Landscaping of beach road/Long-tail boat racing/Cha Am to boost tourism/Thai PM at the UN General Assembly/Torrential rains forecast/Intense plankton bloom threatens/Less than 2,803 baht per month/Thailand’s mega land bridge project/Keen On Investing In ThailandLotus launches EV brand in Thailand/Cannabis Network Gives Warning/Movie scares Chinese tourists/China-Laos Railway Adds Extra Train/Unique things to see in Thailand/Reviving indigo textile production/5 offbeat Thai destinations/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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Baht expected to continue its slide

Economists are warning the baht will weaken further throughout this month and next because of higher volatility in money and capital markets worldwide after the U.S. Federal Reserve’s hawkish comments about its benchmark interest rate.

Poon Panitchpibun, money market strategist at Krungthai Global Markets, a research center of Krungthai Bank, said the baht opened on Thursday at 36.25 to the U.S. dollar, depreciating from the previous day’s close of 36.07. Continued …

Landscaping of beach road a priority?

Hua Hin municipal officials plan to improve the landscaping of the road leading to City Beach. At a meeting yesterday, the Sanitation and Environment Division was told to improve the landscape down to the beach front.

Given that the road is lined almost in its entirety with businesses and vendor stalls, where landscaping would be installed is a question, as is whether the cost of such landscaping is even necessary. The only break in the vendor lineup are the two Centara entrances.

Previously, “beautification” of the road involved new asphalt, as well as building vendor buildings to replace the makeshift stalls that were present. The result has been a narrowing of the pathway that accommodates motorcycles as well as pedestrians. The vendor improvements were made after a fire near the beach destroyed several stalls.

Officials did recommend also that the road be kept clean and that more trash bins would be installed.

Hua Hin seeks approval to hold long-tail boat racing event Nov 17-19

The Hua Hin municipality has submitted a formal request to provincial officials for the green light to host its annual long-tail boat racing event at Khao Tao reservoir in November.

The heart of the discussion revolved around the municipality’s request for the continuation of the longboat racing event. This event traditionally occurs every November to December at the Khao Tao reservoir, a project that was initiated by royal directive. Continued … 

Cha Am aims to boost tourism to international standards

Yesterday, Phetchaburi Province took a significant step toward advancing its tourism industry to meet international standards. A meeting was held at the Phetchaburi Provincial Hall, Mueang district, chaired by Wanpen Mangsri, deputy governor of Phetchaburi.

The central focus of the discussion was to address the needs concerning products and services in the tourism sector of Phetchaburi and Cha Am. Continued …

Full statement delivered by Thai PM at the UN General Assembly

On behalf of the delegation of the Kingdom of Thailand, allow me to congratulate you, Mr. President, upon your election to preside over the General Assembly at its seventy-eighth session.

Thailand has marked a new chapter in our democracy. I have only assumed office a few days ago, with the mandate of the people, to strengthen democratic institutions and values in Thailand, and to uplift the well-being of the Thai people, who have been through difficult times over the past several years. Continued …

Torrential rains forecast for the south as monsoon intensifies

Continuous thundershowers are forecast for most of the country today, with isolated heavy rains in the lower central region, including metropolitan Bangkok, and the east, according to the Meteorological Department.

The south could experience torrential rains, the department warned. The heavy rainfall is the result of a monsoon trough lying across the lower central, the east and the upper south, and the intensifying southwest monsoon across the Andaman Sea and the Gulf. Continued …

Intense plankton bloom threatens Chon Buri’s marine life and mussel farms

A severe plankton bloom, unusually dense in nature, has emerged off the eastern coast of Chon Buri province, leading to the formation of what marine scientists are referring to as an aquatic “dead zone.” This situation poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of local fishermen and the operations of mussel farms in the region.

(Editor note: Plankton blooms such as this one are generally caused by chemical runoffs from farm activities. With the Chao Phraya River emptying into the Gulf, and carrying runoff from Thailand’s farming heartland, such dead zones are likely to continue, and worsen.)

In specific areas of the Gulf of Thailand, marine scientists have recorded plankton levels that are over 10 times the normal amount. Continued …

More than 6% of all Thais still live on less than 2,803 baht per month

Although poverty has decreased in Thailand, incomes have risen and income inequality has decreased, disparities persist and require attention, the National Economic and Social Development Council said in a report.

The report put the poverty line at 2,686 baht per month per person in 2017 and at 2,803 baht per month per person in 2021. It focused on poverty under the government of former prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and his 12th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2017-2021). Continued …

Thailand’s mega land bridge project: an economic boon or environmental bane?

The Industry Ministry of Thailand is currently assessing the environmental impact of a proposed land bridge megaproject in the southern part of the country, a venture that promises to significantly bolster the Thai economy in the future. This assessment is crucial to determining the project’s viability and addressing any potential negative effects on the environment.

The proposed land bridge, which aims to establish a logistics network between Ranong on the Andaman Sea and Chumphon on the Gulf of Thailand, has been a topic of discussion for four decades. It is envisioned as an alternative maritime route to the existing Indian Ocean-Pacific Ocean pathway via the Strait of Malacca, which sees approximately 85,000 ships annually — a figure projected to rise to 128,000 within the next 10 years, according to the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT). Continued …

Goldman Sachs, Estee Lauder, Microsoft And Google Keen On Investing In Thailand: Srettha

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said after holding talks with executives of some top American companies that Goldman Sachs, Estee Lauder, Microsoft and Google are interested in investing in this country.

After a video call yesterday morning to address an Asian Business Council meeting in Thailand, with this being a gathering of more than 80 ASEAN businessmen, among them 10 Thai businessmen, and is the first meeting here in a decade, Srettha had a breakfast meeting with second-highest-ranking executive of Goldman Sachs, a leading global investment banking, securities and investment-management firm. Continued …

UK sports carmaker Lotus launches EV brand in Thailand

The manufacturer of the famous British brand Lotus Cars officially launched its first-ever electric car brand in Thailand on Friday, hoping to be a game changer in the EV industry and start a new chapter for Lotus, said Katya Zavialova, its head of Southeast Asia Pacific.

She said during the launch ceremony that “Lotus Eletre” represents a historic turning point for Lotus, evolving from a 75-year legacy of sports car excellence that combines high technology, dynamic performance, and practicality. Continued …

Cannabis Network Gives Health Minister A Warning

A cannabis network yesterday urged Public Health Minister Chonlanan Srikaew to clearly define what a planned draft bill on cannabis and hemp would mean in saying it is to be for medical and health purposes only, because if traditional medical practitioners are cut out it could lead to conflicts.

After the liberal marijuana policy became effective on June 9, 2022, possessing and using all parts of cannabis plants, including flowers and seeds, are now allowed. However, extracted content remains illegal if it contains more than 0.2% of the psychoactive ingredient that produces a “high” — tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. Continued … 

Blockbuster movie scares Chinese tourists away from Thailand

For millions of Chinese tourists, Thailand used to be a happy land of water fights, lantern festivals and delicious food.

But thanks to social media rumors and a blockbuster movie, the kingdom’s image among many Chinese people is now one of dangerous illegality and seedy scam border compounds — leaving visitor numbers plummeting. Continued …

China-Laos Railway Adds Extra Train To Serve Growing Number of Passengers

The Laos-China Railway Co. (LCRC) has procured another electric multiple-unit (EMU) train, which arrived in the Lao capital Vientiane on Thursday, aiming to accommodate the growing number of passengers.

Anongdeth Phetkaysone, deputy director of the LCRC, said that the EMU train has been purchased to support passenger transportation both domestically and internationally, in order to support the increase in passengers and prepare for Laos’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Visit Laos Year 2024. Continued …

Unique things you can experience only in Thailand

Thailand’s tropical and coastal charms, historical monuments, and extensive cuisine, fashion and wellness offerings make it a tourist magnet. Apart from its cultural and geographical diversity, the country also houses certain endemic attractions that are incredibly one-of-a-kind.

Here are a few top picks of such experiences that need to be on your Thailand bucket list. Continued …

Northern Thailand town reviving indigo textile production for a new generation

“When I was small, it was all very traditional,” muses 69-year-old Prapapan Sritrai as she shows me around her workspace, where huge vats of bubbling, inky-blue liquid are being stirred by her husband. Auntie Ngeam, as she’s known locally, is one of a third generation of indigo artisans in a family descended from the Phuan, a people known for their handwoven fabrics.

A sizeable Phuan community, originally from Laos, settled in Phrae, in northern Thailand, after being displaced from their homeland when the borders of Siam were expanded in the late 19th century, bringing their indigo craftsmanship with them. Continued …

Koh Chang to Rai Leh: 5 offbeat destinations apart from Phuket and Pattaya

From stunning beaches and lush jungles to Thailand’s bustling cities and vibrant culture, it’s not hard to see why it’s one of Asia’s most popular travel destinations. But while many people flock to Phuket and Pattaya for their holidays, plenty of other places in Thailand deserve just as much attention.

Even recently, according to research conducted by MoneyTransfers.com, Phuket has been declared as the world’s most overcrowded tourist destination. However, from the remote islands of Koh Chang to the ancient ruins of Rai Leh, here are five offbeat destinations in Thailand that are not Phuket or Pattaya. Continued … 

More than 70% of farmers have already seen large impacts of climate change

Seventy-one percent of farmers say that climate change already has a large impact on their farm, and even more are worried about the impact this will have in the future; 73% have experienced increasing pest and disease pressure. On average farmers estimate that their incomes had reduced by 15.7% due to climate change in the past two years. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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
baht, chiang mai, hua hin, marijuana, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Sept 21

Today’s news: Thai baht plummets/Hua Hin’s growing wine scene/Escort websites dismantled/Intense rainfall warning/Loei’s watery woes/Father Confesses To Serial Killing/Push to tighten use of cannabis/Economy to be driven by private consumption, tourism/Strong trading relationship/PM backs Sustainable Development/Blue Flag may join ‘digital wallet’/Thai gold market glistens/Trade show increases investment/SPCG readies solar farm growth/Thai Smile Bus to add over 1,000 electric vehicles/Duck egg prices rise/AoT allots Bt140bn for Phangnga, Chaing Mai airports/Koh Rok Reopens on Oct 1/Four Varieties Of Regional Food/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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Thai baht plummets against the US$

The Thai baht has plummeted to its lowest level against the USD since November last year, driven by concerns of “stagflation in countries that heavily rely on energy imports. That includes Thailand.

The baht experienced its second consecutive day of declines against the USD, falling by 0.6% and reaching its lowest point since Nov.10, 2022. As of yesterday afternoon, the baht is valued at 36.2 per U.S. dollar. Experts opine that the swift depreciation was influenced by the surge in oil prices, which have risen by approximately 10% this month. Continued …

Hua Hin’s growing wine scene

For those of you living in Hua Hin a decade ago, you’ll know there were just a couple of places selling what was a fairly limited, not to mention expensive, variety of wine.

Fast forward to today and there are some really interesting things happening in Hua Hin in relation to wine. From growing and cultivating to tasting and pairing – this place is becoming a hub of all things wine. Continued …

Escort websites for foreigners dismantled

Yesterday, under the leadership of Police Lt. Gen. Phanthana Nuchcharoen, deputy commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, a joint operation led by Police Col. Pharakon Naphachoti, deputy commander of the 3rd Region Police Bureau, and other high-ranking officers successfully dismantled a criminal network operating escort websites.

The operation, known as PCT1, uncovered illegal activities related to websites such as www.absolute-angels-bangkok.com. Continued … 

Intense rainfall warning for 49 Thai provinces

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for intense rainfall, impacting 49 provinces, with 70% of these regions likely to be severely affected. Bangkok is anticipated to bear the full brunt of the storms.

Residents are cautioned against potential dangers, including flash floods and rapid forest water flow. This forecast is valid from 6.am today until 6am tomorrow. Continued …

Loei’s watery woes: Torrential rain drowns 60 homes and more

Relentless downpours over the past week have led to extensive flooding in Loei pProvince, northeastern Thailand, submerging more than 60 residences, agricultural land, government structures, and even a central sports field.

The continuous precipitation has triggered the overflow of numerous tributaries, with particular emphasis on the Loei River, the province’s primary watercourse. Continued …

Father Confesses To Serial Killing His Own Children, At least 5

The case of a father who has 10 children and is suspected of murdering half of them has shaken Thai society once more. This disturbing incident sheds light not only on the violence of parents against their children, but also on Thailand’s greater problem of violence against children.

The story came to light when a 12-year-old child broke the door of her room at an apartment in Soi Phaholyothin 48, Bang Khen District, Bangkok, and fled to ask neighbors for help, saying she and her younger sister were being attacked by her father. Continued …

Thai lawmakers plan fresh push to tighten use of cannabis

Thailand’s legislators will renew a push for an overarching law on use of cannabis for medical and research purposes, a senior lawmaker said on Wednesday, more than a year after the narcotic was legalized without proper regulations.

Last year, Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to decriminalize cannabis, but in the absence of specific measures, the government had to hastily issue rules to prevent its unchecked use, particularly among children. Continued …

Thai economy to be driven by private consumption, tourism in 2023

Stimulating private consumption is a reasonable strategy for the government to maintain economic growth amid global uncertainties, according to Tim Leelahaphan, an economist at Standard Chartered Bank Thailand. The first half of 2023 saw a 7% year-on-year increase in the country’s private consumption.

Expectations are high for private consumption and tourism to be the main drivers of economic growth in the latter half of the year. Standard Chartered Bank Thailand is currently awaiting further details of the government’s proposed 10,000 baht digital handout scheme, which requires a massive portion of the government’s budget, estimated at 560 billion baht. Continued …

US and Thailand to continue strong trading relationship

Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Wednesday that United States President Joe Biden had congratulated him on becoming the prime minister and promised that the U.S. would remain a good trading partner of Thailand. The trade partnership between the U.S. and Thailand dates back more than 160 years.

Srettha said he met Biden for a short session during the gala dinner for those attending the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78) in New York City on Tuesday. Continued …

PM backs Sustainable Development Goals at summit

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Wednesday confirmed Thailand’s commitment to realizing the sustainable development goals at the SDG Summit 2023, saying the country has issued two sets of sustainability bonds that have raised US$2.5 billion in green and social investments at the national level.

Speaking in New York, Srettha said Thailand has also launched the Thailand Green Taxonomy as a reference tool for economic activities deemed environmentally sustainable. Continued …

Blue Flag outlets may join “digital wallet” scheme

The Ministry of Commerce is considering using its extensive network of retail outlets, shops and eateries, under the “Blue Flag” (Thong Fah) program, to allow people, who may have difficulty finding shops under the digital wallet 4km radius rule, to spend the 10,000-baht benefit under the scheme.

Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has instructed officials to consider the possibility of leveraging the 144,821 Blue Flag outlets across the country, to overcome the limitation that the 10,000 baht can only be spent within a 4km radius of the recipient’s residence. Continued …

Thai gold market glistens: Prices sparkle with a 100 baht boost in a day

Gold prices in Thailand saw a significant surge as per the Gold Traders Assn. Compared to the closing price of the previous day, gold ornaments Tuesday were sold at an increased rate of 33,100 baht (US$926) per baht weight, marking an upswing of 100 baht.

For 96.5% pure gold bars, the buying price stood at 32,500 baht, while the selling price was 32,600 baht (US$912). For 96.5% pure gold ornaments, the figures were 31,911.80 baht for buying and 33,100 baht for selling. Continued …

Trade show increases investment in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB ) collaborated with the office of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) to hold the EEC Cluster Fair 2023 from Sept. 6-8 at the Nong Nooch Pattaya International Convention and Exhibition Center.

The Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Trade, the Federation of Thai Industries, and the Tourism Council of Thailand also participated in the fair. Continued …

SPCG readies solar farm growth in EEC

SPCG, a pioneer in solar farm development in Thailand, expects to start building solar farms with a combined power generation capacity of 500 megawatts in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

The construction was delayed for almost two years as the company spent time selecting suitable areas for the project and needed to wait for a new secretary-general of the EEC Office to grant a license. Continued …

Thai Smile Bus plans to add over 1,000 electric vehicles to its fleet by 2023

Thai Smile Bus, a leading public transportation company utilizing clean energy, plans to introduce an additional 1,083 electric buses (EV) to its fleet by next year, according to the company’s CEO, Kulapatsorn Wongmajarabhin.

This initiative is part of the company’s ongoing commitment over the past two years to develop environmentally friendly public transportation and reduce PM2.5 dust pollution in urban areas. Continued …

Duck egg prices rise as rain dampens Khon Kaen production

Continual rainfall in Khon Kaen has led to a decrease in duck egg production, driving the cost of duck eggs to an unprecedented high of 170 baht per tray. Salted eggs have also seen a price increase, now costing 8 to 10 baht per egg.

Reporters yesterday visited Ban Dong Pong, Moo 10, Sila subdistrict, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province, a significant area for duck egg farming. They found that due to the persistent rain, farmers had to move their ducks to higher ground to avoid the rain and floodwaters. Continued …

AoT allots Bt140 billion for Phangnga, Chaing Mai airport projects

Airports of Thailand (AoT) has set a budget of 140 billion baht for two airport construction projects, including the building of Andaman International Airport in Phangnga.

AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat said both projects – the new airport in Phangnga and a second phase renovation of Chiang Mai Airport – were the responses by the authorities to urgent policies presented by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Continued …

Koh Rok, the Queen of the Andaman Islands Reopens on Oct 1

Koh Rok in Mu Koh Lanta National Park was closed from July 1 to Sept. 30. It will reopen again on Oct. 1.

Niramit Songsaeng, the head of Mu Koh Lanta National Park in Krabi province, announced that the park will open on Oct. 1 for tourists to admire the beauty of Koh Rok, Koh Haa Islands (Tukonlima), Pile of purple and red rocks and Mai Kaew Cave. Continued …

Sample These Four Varieties Of Regional Food When In Thailand

Thai food has gained popularity around the world due to its diverse culinary styles, great taste, and distinct character. Its core lies in the art of balancing four distinct flavors: salty, sweet, sour, and spicy, with the level of spiciness varying according to the type of Thai food.

Thai cuisine varies in taste and style depending on the area or region of the country from which the dish originated. Regional ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavors define local cuisines, and shape their individual tastes and charms. Continued …

Typhoon tempest sets 71 crocs on the loose

An extensive operation in China’s Guangdong province successfully recaptured 71 escaped crocodiles, according to Chinese state media. A flood resulting from a typhoon in the city of Maoming earlier this month led to the reptiles escaping from a commercial farm. Continued …

 

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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
bangkok, hua hin, immigration, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Aug 28

Today’s news: Wine scam circulating in Hua Hin/Opinion: Promised Change/Elephant Stabs His Master To Death/Fears over Fukushima seafood rise/Dr Pakpilai Thavisin: Thailand’s new First Lady/The 600-baht wage hike policy/No plan to increase VAT to 10%/Few jobs for university graduates/Weed Industry Is Poised to Grow Fast/90-day tourist visas?/Thai Smile exiting Surat Thani/Phuket seeks 4am/U-Tapao Airport Nightspots Can Operate 24 Hours a Day/Pattaya Speedboat Operators in Wild Brawl/Chinese Tourist Shortfall in Pattaya/5 Unknown Islands To Explore/What’s really killing historical UK pubs/

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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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

Local restaurants warned of sophisticated wine scam circulating in Hua Hin

An elaborate wine scam, which previously made headlines in Bangkok, has made its way to Hua Hin, with restauranteurs urged to remain vigilant.

The scheme came to attention earlier this week when a Hua Hin restaurant narrowly avoided falling prey to it. The modus operandi involves scammers making a reservation under the guise of hosting a high-end event and then pushing restaurants to procure wine from a specific vendor. Continued …

Promised Change Gives Way to Familiar Faces

The political landscape in Thailand remains mired in complexities and contradictions, as the recently formed government represents both a reiteration and a perpetuation of existing political realities.

Despite the majority of voters casting their ballots for significant political change, the composition of the new cabinet belies these aspirations. Continued …

Elephant Stabs His Master To Death After Being Sold

A tragic incident happened when a male elephant named Pha Tulu belonging to the Karen tribe fatally stabbed his owner with his ivory at the intersection of Mai Village, Mae Tan subdistrict, Tha Song Yang District, Tak Province, northern Thailand. Pha Phi Du Lerttikhamphon, a 57-year-old mahout, died from a traumatic injury in his body.

The elephant refused to obey Pha Phi Du’s orders to take him to the vehicle and deliver him to his new owner in Surin Province after being sold for 2,760,000 baht. Pha Phi Du became enraged and beat Pha Tulu with his equipment. The elephant then retaliated with his tusks, stomping on the mahout until he died. Continued …

Fears over Fukushima seafood rise

The Thailand Consumers Council (TCC) is urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Fisheries to tighten measures on imported seafood from Japan after several countries banned the products following the release of treated radioactive water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant.

TCC official Panuchot Tongyang yesterday said China, Hong Kong and South Korea have suspended imports of Japanese seafood, including live sea animals, frozen and dried seafood, sea salt and seaweed due to concerns about contamination. Continued …

Dr Pakpilai Thavisin: From anti-aging pioneer to Thailand’s new First Lady

Dr. Pakpilai Thavisin is feeling heat from the media spotlight after her husband Srettha Thavisin became Thailand’s 30th prime minister. But this is far from her first taste of fame.

With her high-flying career and fashionable dress sense, Pakpilai has been a favorite subject of gossip columns for years. She has also aired her views in media interviews. Continued … 

Business operators against 600-baht wage hike policy

The Pheu Thai-led government intends to press ahead with its election promise to raise the minimum wage to 600 baht within 4 years from the current range of 328-354 baht per day introduced in October 2022.

The party first introduced what is regarded as a populist policy back in 2011, when it launched the nationwide minimum wage policy of 300 baht per day. Then, like now, the private sector made its opposition known, citing political interference and uneven investment distribution nationwide. Continued …

Thai finance ministry has no immediate plan to increase VAT to 10%

The Ministry of Finance has no policy to increase value-added tax from 7% to 10%, to generate more revenue to fund old age pensions, according to Pornchai Theeravet, director of the Fiscal Policy Office and spokesman for the ministry.

His remark is in response to a report that the National Economic and Social Development Council has proposed several measures to increase support for pensioners, including a proposed increase in the rate of VAT. Continued …

Thailand running out of jobs for university graduates, report shows

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has warned that new university graduates may find it tough to get jobs, as demand is on the decline.

This warning came in a recent report released by the agency, which said that new university graduates may be hired at lower salaries or jobs may be given to those with lower qualifications. Continued …

Thailand’s Weed Industry Is Poised to Grow Fast

In Bangkok these days, it’s hard not to notice the weed dispensaries catering to tourists that have multiplied since the government decriminalized the drug last year.

Many of them take advantage of lax regulations to openly sell visitors dried marijuana flowers that have been imported illegally from Canada or the United States. On a recent afternoon, one shop advertised its pungent offerings — weed strains with names like “Ice Cream Cake” and “Lemon Cookies” — as “California’s finest.” Continued …

PM to look into extending tourist visas to 90 days

The new government will consider extending tourist visa validities from 30 days to 90 days and the easing of immigration procedures, to make them more convenient for foreign tourists, said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, responding to call from tourism business operators for the government to boost the tourism industry.

He also said, however, that the proposal from some tourism business operators for the government to exempt entry visas for tourists from China, India and Russia is a different issue, which has security implications and has to be considered carefully. Continued …

Surat Thani governor snarls at Thai Smile’s flight axe plan

The governor of Surat Thani has asked Thai Smile Airways not to cease its flight services to the southern province in order to protect its tourism.

Gov. Wichawut Jinto said on Sunday that people earlier complained to him that Thai Smile Airways would stop its flight services on Oct. 1. Continued …

Phuket’s night-life venues ask new PM to let them to stay open until 4am

Night entertainment operators in Phuket have proposed that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin allow their venues on Patong Beach to stay open until 4am, instead of the current 1am.

Weerawit Kruasombat, president of the entertainment business operators association on Patong Beach, said Saturday that the proposal was submitted to Srettha during yesterday’s meeting between the prime minister and representatives of tourism-related business. Continued …

U-Tapao Airport Nightspots Receive Green Light to Operate 24 Hours a Day

The Thai government has clarified that the recent permission granted for entertainment venues to operate around the clock in the U-Tapao International Airport & Eastern Airport City Project does not extend to nearby areas such as Pattaya and Rayong.

Deputy government spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul clarified this on Sunday, emphasizing that the Interior Ministry’s recent notice in the Royal Gazette applied exclusively to the specified locations within the U-Tapao airport complex. Continued …

Pattaya Speedboat Operators in Wild Brawl Arguing Over Tourists

Two groups of rival speedboat operators in Pattaya engaged in a widely filmed and shared viral fistfight over who would transport a group of tourists on Saturday evening.

The fight broke out at 5 PM at Bali Hai Pier, panicking numerous tourists who were waiting to board a ride to Koh Larn. Continued …

Chinese Tourist Shortfall Takes Toll on Pattaya’s Tourism Sector

The tourism sector in Pattaya is grappling with a waning number of Chinese tourists due to current strict visa regulations and a shortage of flight options.

Boonanan Pattanasin, the president of the Pattaya Business and Tourism Assn. (PBTA), revealed that the current tourism situation in Pattaya is predominantly centered on Chinese and Indian tourists. However, the number of Chinese tourists has significantly declined in recent months, hindering the city’s full recovery. Continued …

5 Unknown Islands In Thailand To Experience Paradise Without The Crowds

There’s the picture-perfect beach vacation we all dream of. White sand beneath your feet, an ice-cold drink in your hand, and the quiet sounds of the palm trees blowing in the wind and turquoise waves crashing on the shore. Total tranquility.

Then, there’s the beach vacation we actually get. Somehow, fighting for overpriced beach chairs at overcrowded beaches amid blaring music, screaming children, and unruly tourists never live up to the seaside serenity you had in mind. Continued …

What’s really killing historical UK pubs

When the Crown and Anchor pub in Llanidloes in mid-Wales was built, there was a different Charles on the throne, America was a British colony and France still had a king. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

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

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

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

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