- Soi 56 road work/Parking at Hua Hin fishing pier/Rotary Club supports local families/PKK road safety campaign/Hua Hin fishing pier cat dies/Riceberry could help restore hair/Healthcare Giant Accelerates AI Adoption/Thai English Proficiency Slips/Thailand dominates SEA Games/Bangkok Prison Scandal/Over 6 scam buildings destroyed/Thailand’s rising migrant crisis
- THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Thailand Blames Cambodia at UN/4 more soldiers killed/Is Thailand using chemical weapons?/Thai Marines in Trat Victory/Cambodia Rejects Claims of Foreign Mercenaries/China Sends Envoy to Mediate
- ECONOMY: Bank of Thailand Slashes Rates Again/Industrial confidence rises/Mixed-Use Developments Defying Downturn/Phuket’s ‘Golden Mile’ Global Luxury Hub/Promising business sectors in 2026/China’s $1 Trillion Trade Surplus
- TOURISM: Room cancellations mount/UK: 1 million Tourists to Thailand/Phuket eyes booming New Year/Bookings set to surge in south
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: 5 places tourists haven’t discovered/10 Thai Foods You Should Try/Hua Hin Named Among Top Destinations for Luxury Travel
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Mines, rivers, and a regional crisis/Demand shifts result in national oil plan rejig
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS
Soi 56 road work Saturday through Tuesday
Hua Hin has announced a temporary road closure along Hua Hin Soi 56 from Saturday to Tuesday to allow for asphalt road surface improvement works.
The road closure will be from the Dinosaur traffic lights junction to the Hua Hin Thansamai intersection. The closure is part of an asphalt concrete road surface improvement project. Continued …
Parking and activity space planned for Hua Hin fishing pier area
Hua Hin has begun work to prepare a new fishing pier parking and community activity area near the city’s fishing pier, following a large-scale clean-up operation carried out this week.
The initiative focuses on land near the former Mee Karuna restaurant on Naresdamri Road, along the beachfront next to the pier. Municipal officials say the site will be developed as a temporary public space that can support both community activities and additional parking for residents and visitors. Continued …
Rotary Club of Hua Hin charity event supports local families
Earlier this week, at the old Hua Hin “Love” Train Station depot, the Rotary Club of Hua Hin donated food to those in need and raised awareness of growing financial pressures across the country.
Khemtada Pourpunpong, known as Honey, the owner of Thaibbq1999, said more than 1,000 BBQ skewers, along with a wide variety of food and essential daily necessities, were distributed to those in need. She said the project is held every December, marking the founder’s birth month, Father’s Day month, and a meaningful period to farewell the old year and welcome the new year. Continued …
PKK launches road safety campaign
The Prachuap Khiri Khan governor has launched a road traffic injury-prevention campaign aimed at promoting safer driving and reducing accidents across the province, where road fatalities remain well above the national target.
The campaign was officially opened yesterday at Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital. The event marked the launch of the Road Traffic Injury Prevention Project, organized by Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital in cooperation with the Provincial Public Health Office, government agencies, private sector partners, and road safety networks. Continued …
‘Chao Saeb’ Hua Hin fishing pier cat dies
Chao Saeb, the well-known ginger cat who became a familiar sight at the Hua Hin fishing pier, has died, according to an announcement posted on the Saphan Pla Hua Hin Walking Street Facebook page.
The cat, believed to have been around five years old, had lived around the fishing pier for much of his life and was widely regarded as a local fixture by residents, vendors, and visitors. Continued …
Riceberry could help restore hair
Researchers from Chulalongkorn University and Mahidol University are expanding a joint study into the use of Riceberry-derived compounds to address hair loss and premature graying, with a full clinical trial expected to begin early next year.
The collaborative research centers on AnthoRice Complex, developed from organic Riceberry rice, which has shown promising results in laboratory tests for stimulating hair growth and restoring natural hair color. Continued …
Thailand’s Healthcare Giant Accelerates AI Adoption to Transform Patient Services
Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), which operates some of the region’s most prominent hospital brands, is rolling out new AI-driven tools across diagnostics, patient management, and operational efficiency. The initiative reflects a broader shift among Thai healthcare providers toward data-driven, preventative, and personalized care.
The trend aligns with Thailand’s national push to position itself as a regional medical hub. Hospitals are increasingly adopting AI to reduce diagnostic times, improve accuracy, and streamline administrative workloads that have historically strained medical staff. Continued …
Thai English Proficiency Slips Further Down Global Rankings
Thailand’s position in global English proficiency has taken a hit, according to the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index. Ranked 116th out of 123 countries, Thailand fell into the “very low proficiency” category with a score of 402. This represents a significant drop of 13 points from the previous year.
Based on data from 2.2 million test takers aged 26 on average, the EF Index ranks countries on their English proficiency skills. While English remains the top language for international communication, global proficiency hasn’t improved since 2020. Countries continue to invest in English education, but progress is uneven, with reading skills generally being the strongest and speaking the weakest worldwide. Continued …
Thailand dominates SEA Games
The 33rd SEA Games (SEA Games 2025) in Thailand continues to heat up. The Thai national team has delivered a dominant performance worthy of the host nation, sweeping gold medals and leaving competitors far behind.
The SEA Games medal tally update yesterday showed Thailand firmly on the top spot on the leaderboard with gold medals. Indonesia ranks second with 100 gold medals. Continued …
Bangkok Prison Scandal: VIP Perks and Prostitution Unveiled
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has concluded its probe into the “Chinese VIP” scandal at Bangkok Remand Prison, forwarding the findings to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The scandal charges former prison chief Manop Chomchuen and his secretary, Traiphol Sikiaowkae, with abuse of authority.
Both officials stand accused of granting improper privileges to certain inmates and facilitating acts of prostitution within the prison, violations of the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act. This case emerged after a joint raid by the Central Institute of Forensic Science, the DSI, and the Department of Corrections, following allegations of unlawful privileges granted to Chinese inmates. Continued …
Over 6 scam buildings destroyed by Thai forces
Yesterday, the Royal Thai Army announced it had destroyed over six buildings used by transnational scam networks, including casinos and hotels. These actions were part of the ongoing clashes between Thailand and Cambodia.
As of Dec. 14, the Thai military had taken down at least six such targets, including two major buildings previously sanctioned by the United States. These facilities had been involved in fraudulent transactions that targeted American citizens over an extended period. The U.S. had already imposed financial sanctions and seized assets from the owners of these properties due to their connection to scam operations. Continued …
Inside Thailand’s rising migrant crisis
“At first, I thought we’d have to be in Thailand for a short period,” said the former National League for Democracy member, one of millions in Myanmar who fled their homes after the 2021 military coup plunged the country into civil war.
“We planned to go back as soon as peace was restored, but we have been here for around four years already,” he said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The 40-year-old man stated that he had paid 17,000 baht (US$540) to register with Thai authorities through an agency but had been unable to find a factory job. Continued …
Thailand Blames Cambodia Again at UN Over Landmines, Aggression
Thailand has blamed Cambodia at the UN over landmine placement and aggressive actions, while urging peace under certain conditions. Thai ambassador to the UN Rachada Suthepakul made these allegations after Cambodia claimed Thai misconduct.
This showdown follows a series of disputes, with Cambodia criticizing Thailand for seizing assets from a Cambodian-linked call center involved in online scams. During the UN Peacebuilding Commission’s meeting and the UN Security Council’s session on “Leadership for Peace,” Rachada counterattacked Cambodia’s claims. She presented evidence showing Cambodia’s landmine placement in Thai territory, undermining previous cooperative spirit. Continued …
4 more soldiers killed in border clashes with Cambodia
The Royal Thai Army has confirmed the deaths of four more soldiers in the ongoing border conflict with Cambodia, bringing the total number of casualties to 21 since Dec. 8. Continued …
Is Thailand using chemical weapons?
Cambodian soldier Kun Yong said he had been forced to pull back from his frontline position recently after he had trouble breathing following a sortie by a Thai aircraft. “It’s like I was suffocating,” he said as he lay in a hospital bed, with his wife by his side.
From their hospital beds in Banteay Meanchey province in northwest Cambodia, several soldiers and police described experiencing respiratory problems after Thai aircraft dropped what they said was “poisonous water”. Continued …
Thai Marines Oust Cambodian Forces in Trat Victory
Royal Thai Navy marines have successfully reclaimed Ban Nong Ri in Trat province from Cambodian forces after days of strategic combat. Following an escalating threat since December, the Border Defense Command, along with the Marine task force, mounted an intense operation to regain control over the crucial area.
The situation came to light when aerial surveillance detected Cambodian troops establishing a new base in Ban Nong Ri, reigniting tensions at a previously contested zone. The Royal Thai Air Force coordinated their efforts, engaging in rigorous maneuvers that eventually secured the border region. Continued …
Cambodia Rejects Claims of Foreign Mercenaries in Border Conflict
Cambodia Senate President Hun Sen has dismissed reports from Thai media about the involvement of foreign mercenaries, including Russians, in the border conflict with Thailand.
In a statement, Hun Sen reiterated that Cambodia has no foreign military presence, maintaining that the nation’s dignity and sovereignty remain intact. He noted that while Cambodia has previously hosted foreign troops for peacekeeping purposes, there are currently no foreign soldiers involved in military operations. Continued …
China Sends Envoy to Mediate Thailand–Cambodia Border Clash
China has dispatched its special envoy to Thailand and Cambodia to mediate the escalating border clash between the two nations. The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand announced China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict.
As a neighbour to both countries, China has taken an active role in promoting dialogue and reducing tension, with the envoy playing a crucial diplomatic role. Continued …
Bank of Thailand Slashes Rates Again Amid Economic Struggles
The Bank of Thailand has reduced its policy rate by 25 basis points to 1.25%, aiming to bolster economic growth amid political troubles, a strengthening baht, and US tariffs.
This marks the fifth rate cut since October 2024, with a total reduction of 125 basis points. The central bank aims to support the slowing economy, as highlighted by recent votes from the Monetary Policy Committee. Continued …
Industrial confidence rises slightly
The Thai Industries Sentiment Index (TISI) climbed to 89.1 points in November, up from 87.3, though entrepreneurs remain cautious amid a strong baht, severe flooding in the south, and escalating border tensions with Cambodia, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
FTI Chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul credited the rise to government stimulus measures, particularly the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme, along with the tourism high season in the final quarter. Continued …
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Mixed-Use Developments are Defying the Property DownturnMixed-use developments are outperforming standalone properties due to a “synergistic ecosystem”, where office, retail, and residential components create a built-in customer base for one another.
These integrated projects demonstrate superior performance with an average take-up rate of 81%, significantly higher than standalone competitors, especially in the office sector (81% vs. 72% occupancy). Continued …
Phuket’s ‘Golden Mile’ Emerges as Global Luxury Hub
The coastal corridor spanning Bang Tao, Cherng Talay, and Layan is now being called Phuket’s “Golden Mile”, becoming a magnet for high-end property development. This emergence is fueled by a surge in international investment, with 85 new projects valued at 73 billion baht launched in the first nine months of 2025.
The market is shifting from tourism to long-term residency, as buyers from countries like Russia, Australia, and China seek permanent homes or high rental yields of 6%-8%. Continued …
Survey identifies promising business sectors in 2026
Digital services, health and wellness, and businesses with solid environmental, social, and governance (ESG) attributes remain promising next year, according to a survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).
Thanavath Phonvichai, the university’s president, said the list of rising and declining businesses is based on economic growth factors and key risks, such as trade wars and global export trends. Although Thailand’s exports in 2025 are expected to grow by 11%, next year they are projected to contract by 1% from an inflated base, he said. Continued …
China’s $1 Trillion Trade Surplus: What It Means for ASEAN
China has recorded a historic global goods trade surplus of $1.08 trillion in the first 11 months of 2025, underscoring its continued dominance as the world’s manufacturing powerhouse despite domestic economic challenges.
According to recent reports, China’s exports reached $3.41 trillion, significantly outpacing imports, which have declined due to weak domestic demand and deflationary pressures. This massive surplus highlights structural imbalances in China’s trade, with booming exports and subdued imports creating ripple effects across global markets. Continued …
Hotels call for end to Thai-Cambodian border war as room cancellations mount
The alleged infiltration of Russian mercenaries should not affect tourism and local life in Nakhon Ratchasima, but authorities are urged to resolve the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute soon to prevent sluggish New Year travel, as some hotels have reported cancellations of more than 100 rooms since last week.
The greater concern was the renewed border conflict, as all hotel bookings in the four provinces along the border were canceled. Even though Nakhon Ratchasima is not located near the conflict zones, some hotels in the province also received cancellation requests. Continued …
UK Becomes First European Nation to Send 1 million Tourists to Thailand
Thailand achieved a significant tourism milestone this year, with long-haul tourist arrivals breaching the 10 million mark for the first time. The landing of a Thai Airways flight from London to Bangkok yesterday symbolically marked this milestone. This year, the UK also claimed the title of the first European nation to send over 1 million visitors to Thailand.
Long-haul visitors, including those from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa, now make up about 33% of all international arrivals. Continued …
Phuket eyes booming New Year
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office has projected a strong recovery and growth in the province’s tourism sector during the New Year festival, driven by increased international flights and diverse cultural events.
Siriwan Siharach, director of TAT Phuket office, said the outlook for Phuket’s tourism between Dec. 31 and Jan. 4 is positive, with visitor numbers surging and spending boosted by festivals and activities across the island. Continued …
Bookings set to surge in south
Hotel bookings in the three provinces of Phatthalung, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Trang are set to grow by 20%–30% due to an influx of Malaysian, Singaporean, and Indonesian visitors, as tourism in Hat Yai district in Songkhla near the southern border is recuperating from the devastating floods in the area, with a full recovery expected in three months, according to the local tourism association.
Jaroon Kaewwajisap, president of the Songkhla Tourism Assn., said Hat Yai – the economic and tourism hub of Songkhla – is still in recovery. In the meantime, tourism operators in the other three provinces, together with partners in Malaysia and Singapore, have stepped in to accommodate visitors. Continued …
5 places in Thailand that have spectacular natural beauty but tourists haven’t discovered yet
Thailand’s famous spots have earned their reputation. But they’ve also earned their crowds — Maya Bay now feels like a theme park queue, and Phi Phi’s beaches are standing room only by mid-morning.
The good news: Thailand is big, and most tourists stick to the same handful of places. Here are five spots where the natural scenery genuinely stops you in your tracks, and you won’t be jostling for position to see it. Continued …
10 Thai Foods You Should Try At Least Once
The first time I visited Thailand, I was blown away by the sheer abundance of tasty food at every turn. It seemed like no matter where I went, I was never far from a fiery curry, tangy soup, or bowl of springy noodles.
That first trip sparked somewhat of an obsession with Southeast Asian cuisine in me. Not long afterward, I packed my bags and moved to the region, first living in neighboring Cambodia and later in Vietnam and Indonesia. Over the course of a decade, I visited Thailand every chance I got to explore more of the country and cuisine. Continued …
Hua Hin Named Among Top 6 Destinations for Luxury Travel in Thailand
Thailand is a country that offers an enchanting blend of ancient culture, stunning natural beauty, and world-class luxury. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the islands, Thailand has something to offer every luxury traveler. In this article, we’ll explore the top six destinations for luxury travel in Thailand.
Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, and it’s the perfect starting point for any luxury trip to Thailand. The city is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, including the Mandarin Oriental and the Shangri-La. These hotels offer top-notch amenities, world-class dining, and stunning views of the city skyline. Continued …
Mines, rivers, and a regional crisis
“When I was a child, the Kok River and the Mekong were clear and alive. We drank directly from the river. Women and mothers gathered along the banks, hauling in fishing nets fully loaded with heavy fish, which we cooked and ate the same day. We were happy. We lived without fear – fear of toxins, fear for our health.
“Today, we can no longer use our rivers at all. That happiness is gone. Everything has changed. We live with anxiety – fear of contamination, fear of illness, fear for our children.” Continued …
Demand shifts result in national oil plan rejig
The new national oil plan (NOP), which maps out long-term oil usage for the country, is expected to have several revisions as a result of projected shifts in global oil demand, the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), and data centers, says the Department of Energy Business (DOEB).
“These changes exceed our earlier estimates,” said Sarawut Kaewtathip, chief of the DOEB, referring to ongoing work to draft a new plan. The NOP is usually based on data for peak oil demand, meaning the highest global demand in terms of oil consumption estimated by the International Energy Agency (IEA). Continued …
- Illegal Cannabis Farm with 1,685 Plants Raided, 3 Vietnames arrested – Continued …
- Kazakh Fraud Suspect Held in Phuket on Interpol Red Notice – Continued …
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French tourists allegedly fabricate bad boat trip experience in Phuket for refund – Continued …
- 3 foreign motorcyclists abandon injured friend and woman after crash in Phuket – Continued …
Hua Hin 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
Group sterilizing and vaccinating stray dogs in Hua Hin
Thailand’s new energy roadmap: a path to eco and economic crisis?
Tax measures for employers to cushion blow of wage increases
Time to Raise the Retirement Age in Thailand
Bitec to host four trade shows this week
Thai PM Pledges Major Upgrades for Key Airports
Missionaries Have Gone to Thailand for 200 years. Why Aren’t There More Christians?
Path to Social Security’s survival mapped out
Thai government seeks 7 billion baht for EV subsidies
KFC Thailand’s CMO on local flair, innovation, and his recipe for success
