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Thursday’s news-July 23

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  • Alcohol sales ban/Phon Kingphet Park upgrade/InterContinental Hua Hin best resort hotel/Thailand’s new police chief/What Thai Locals Really Eat in Hua Hin/Pump prices rise again/Health insurance before 60/Origin of the Word ‘Farang//Gunmen kill five rangers/Bangkok shuts 56 venues/Fire death toll rises to 35/Cambodia border fence/Thailand’s universal healthcare crisis
  • THE IRAN WAR: Saudi oil routes face new uncertainty/Oil hits six-week high/Thailand on alert
  • ECONOMY: Why Thailand faces economic contraction/Baht Slides to 15-Month Low/Section 301 probe raises tariff risk/Land bridge plan to be revised/Thai Airways sees aviation recovery
  • TOURISM: Thai travelers embrace ‘run-cation’/Chon Buri tourism presses for reforms
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Why ‘2’ Means 8 PM in Thailand
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Environmental rules tighten/Thai SMEs Must Go Green/PM to press Myanmar on river pollution
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Alcohol sales ban set for July 29-30

Thailand will observe three consecutive public holidays from Tuesday, July 28 to Thursday, July 30, with alcohol sales restricted during the final two days.

The holidays are His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday on July 28, Asalha Bucha Day on July 29, and Khao Phansa, or Buddhist Lent Day, on July 30. Government offices will be closed throughout the three-day period. Continued … 

Phon Kingphet Park upgrade: 22.7 million baht

Hua Hin Municipality has reviewed key electrical and structural works under the 22.7 million baht Phon Kingphet Park upgrade in central Hua Hin. The project’s procurement inspection committee on Tuesday examined progress on the redevelopment of the city activity plaza on Damnoen Kasem Road, commonly known as Phon Kingphet Park.

The project has a total budget of 22,673,890.97 baht, with Process Engineer and Consultant Co., appointed as the contractor. Continued … 

InterContinental Hua Hin Resort named Thailand’s best resort hotel

InterContinental Hua Hin Resort has been recognized as Thailand’s Best Resort Hotel at the 2026 Haute Grandeur Global Awards, celebrating the resort’s dedication to exceptional hospitality and guest experiences.

Recognized through guest feedback, the Haute Grandeur Global Awards celebrate hotels that consistently deliver outstanding experiences. This achievement further strengthens InterContinental Hua Hin Resort’s position as one of Thailand’s leading luxury beachfront destinations. Continued … 

Thailand’s new police chief is a Cha-am native

A Cha-am native has been named Thailand’s incoming national police chiefs. Police Gen.Samran Nuanma, who was born in Bang Kao subdistrict, Cha-am district, was selected as the 16th commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police yesterday.

The Police Commission voted unanimously, 12–0 to appoint him as successor to Police Gen. Kitrat Phanphet, who is due to retire on Sept. 30. The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Four senior officers were considered for the post. Continued … 

What Thai Locals Really Eat in Hua Hin

Discover where locals truly eat in Hua Hin. Visit five stops spanning 3.5 hours, sampling 18 different dishes: First, a 100-year-old, three-generation noodle shop serving Gaolao beef soup with multiple cuts, including tender gristle (nature’s collagen supplement!) Next, Yum Naem Khao Tod – fermented pork sausage wrapped in betel leaves with herbs, peanuts, and ginger, eaten like tiny flavor-packed tacos. Video … 

Pump prices rise again, this time by 90 satang

Thailand’s retail prices for most petrol, gasohol and diesel products increased by 0.90 baht per liter todat, following a decision by the Fuel Fund Executive Committee.

The adjustment pushed the retail price of standard high-speed diesel to 36.69 baht per liter, while diesel B20 rose to 31.69 baht. Gasohol 95 also climbed to 36.69 baht, gasohol 91 to 36.32 baht and gasohol E20 to 31.69 baht per liter. Continued … 

5 moves to make with your expat health insurance in Thailand before 60

Expat health insurance in Thailand gets harder to buy the closer you get to 60. If that birthday is creeping up on you, you’ve probably already wondered whether your current coverage will actually hold up when you need it most.

Insurers don’t just charge more as you age; they also treat your medical history very differently depending on when you buy. Get covered before a diagnosis, and that condition is treated as new and covered like anything else on the policy. Continued … 

The Origin of the Word ‘Farang’ Did Not Begin in Thailand

Many People assume that the Thai word “Farang” originated in Thailand, but its history actually stretches far beyond Thai borders.

The word comes from the Persian term Farang or Farangi, which were originally used to refer to the Franks, a group of people from Western Europe. As contact between different cultures increased, the meaning gradually expanded to include Europeans as a whole and later Westerners in general. Continued … 

Gunmen kill five rangers at Narathiwat checkpoint

Five paramilitary rangers were killed and five civilians, including children, were injured when six armed men attacked the Buketa Sami checkpoint in Ra-ngae district, Narathiwat, yesterday. The assailants fled after firing weapons and throwing pipe bombs, authorities said.

CCTV footage reportedly showed a co-ordinated convoy. A red motorcycle acted as a lead vehicle, followed by a black four-door pickup carrying six men in black clothing and black wide-brimmed hats in its rear section. Continued … 

Bangkok shuts 56 venues after Lat Phrao brewery fire

Bangkok has suspended 56 entertainment-related premises after finding safety shortcomings during a three-day inspection drive following a fire in the Lat Phrao area. City Hall is tightening inspections across the capital, using a new 17-point safety checklist and powers under the 1992 Public Health Act alongside other relevant laws.

Of 1,091 premises similar to entertainment venues under Bangkok Metropolitan Administration responsibility, officials inspected 824 in the past three days. A total of 217 met the required standards, while 551 were ordered to make improvements. Continued … 

Na Ladprao fire death toll rises to 35

The death toll from the fire at the Na Ladprao entertainment venue in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district has risen to 35 after a further victim died from her injuries early yesterday.

Bangkok’s Erawan Emergency Medical Center said 23-year-old Thitichaya Krutwichit died at Siriraj Hospital at 2.20 am. She was being treated in the hospital’s burn unit. Her death was the eighth recorded in hospital following the blaze at the Lat Phrao venue. Continued … 

Thailand presses on with Cambodia border fence

Thailand has completed the first section of a permanent border ‌fence along parts of its frontier with Cambodia, the military said yesterday, as tensions persist between the two Southeast Asian neighbours following two rounds of​fighting last ⁠year.

Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Ukrit Boontanon described the 1.3-kilometer stretch of reinforced concrete panels topped with steel mesh and ‌concertina wire in Pong Nam Ron district as “stable, strong and durable”, saying it had been designed for long-term security. Continued … 

Is co-payment the answer for Thailand’s universal healthcare crisis?

Barely two decades since its introduction, Thailand’s universal healthcare scheme is tottering on the brink of collapse under a growing financial burden. Radical reforms now seem unavoidable.

Four hundred of the 903 public hospitals under the scheme have recorded an accumulated loss of 12.21 billion baht. This deficit results mainly from the National Health Security Office (NHSO)’s failure to devote budgets that actually reflect operational costs. Continued … 

Saudi oil routes face new uncertainty after Houthi tanker claims

Saudi Arabia’s principal alternative route for bypassing the Strait of Hormuz was drawn deeper into the conflict today, after Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis claimed missile and drone attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea.

The group described the operation as part of its naval blockade of the kingdom, raising concern that global oil supplies could face a second squeeze at Bab el-Mandeb alongside Iran’s effort to control Hormuz. Continued … 

Oil hits six-week high as risks mount in two key straits, Thai pump prices rise

Oil prices settled at their highest level since June 11 yesterday as escalating US-Iran hostilities and growing threats to shipping through two major waterways heightened fears of global supply disruption.

Brent crude futures gained US$3.06, or 3.36%, to close at US$94.07 a barrel after touching US$95.47 during the session. The gap between prompt Brent and contracts for delivery three months later widened to US$9.26 a barrel, its largest since May 22. Continued … 

Thailand on alert over Middle East tensions, ready for evacuations

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow says that he has ordered close monitoring of the situation in the Middle East and instructed officials to prepare for the possible evacuation of Thai nationals if necessary.

The permanent secretary for the Foreign Ministry had held a meeting to assess developments and review preparations for all possible scenarios, including the evacuation of Thai citizens from affected areas. Continued … 

Why Thailand faces economic contraction

I have a monumental task: convincing readers that Thailand’s economy is performing poorly and is likely to contract this year. My strongest evidence is not the abundance of statistics or economic theories at my disposal. It is far simpler: people are spending much more on energy and, inevitably, less on everything else.

If readers remain unconvinced, they need only look inside their wallets or check their bank balances. The evidence is there. Continued … 

Baht Slides to 15-Month Low

The Thai baht has fallen to its weakest level in 15 months, depreciating by more than 6% since the start of the year, as soaring global energy costs and lingering Middle East tensions push Thailand’s current account into deficit.

The baht’s first-half weakness reflects Thailand’s structural exposure to energy imports rather than any deterioration in underlying fundamentals, according to Roong Sanguanruang, senior vice president of Krungsri’s Global Markets Planning Division. Continued … 

Thailand on alert as US Section 301 probe raises tariff risk up to 25%

Thailand’s trade relationship with the United States is entering a critical new phase as Washington prepares to use Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 to examine countries accused of unfair trade practices.

The move has put Thai exporters on alert, with experts warning that Thailand could face additional tariffs of up to 25% if the United States proceeds with action on two issues: forced labor controls and structural excess production capacity. Continued … 

Land bridge plan to be revised, China-Singapore route accelerated

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered officials concerned to revise the land bridge project of the government while speeding up other transport projects linking Thailand, China, Laos, Malaysia and Singapore, according to the government spokesman.

Government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said yesterday that Anutin instructed relevant government organizations to revise the land bridge project and speed up road and rail projects ready for implementation to remedy “missing links” and complete transport networks. Continued … 

Thai Airways sees aviation recovery in H2 despite fuel uptick

The financial results of Thai Airways International (THAI) are expected to bottom out in the second quarter, while recently approved tourism stimulus efforts should help airlines in the second half even as renewed US-Iran tensions cause jet fuel prices to rise, say analysts.

Thanapol Jiratanakij, an analyst at CGS International Securities (Thailand), said the flag carrier’s management acknowledged that advance bookings softened in the second quarter amid the Middle East war, yet underlying travel demand remained resilient based on consistently high cabin factors despite industry-wide fare increases. Continued … 

Thai travelers embrace ‘run-cation’ as marathon trips surge across Asia

Thai travelers are increasingly turning marathon weekends into full travel experiences, as the “run-cation” trend — traveling while joining running events — gains momentum across Asia.

According to accommodation search data from Agoda, Thai travelers are planning more trips around major marathon events, not only in Thailand but also in popular race destinations across the region. The trend reflects a growing appetite for travel with a purpose, combining sport, health and discovery in one journey. Continued … 

Chon Buri tourism sector presses for regulatory reforms

Chon Buri tourism operators are urging the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to address persistent issues affecting the low season and safety, including unlicensed hotels, illegal tour operators and unregulated entertainment venues.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul visited Chon Buri and Pattaya last Friday to discuss tourism measures with operators, including the Association of the Chonburi Tourism Federation (ACTF). Continued … 

Confusing Thai Time-Counting Method: Why ‘2’ Means 8 PM in Thailand

If you’ve ever had a conversation with a Thai person, you might have encountered their unique way of telling time.

For example, they might say, “Let’s get dinner at 2!” leaving you confused for a moment until we realize our mistake and say, “Oh, I meant 8 PM.” Even if a Thai person speaks fluent English, growing up in a Thai household means this slip-up happens all the time. Continued … 

Thai exporters risk losing orders as environmental rules tighten

Thai exporters risk losing orders and access to major markets unless they accelerate compliance with tightening environmental and sustainability rules, EXIM Thailand has warned, as the state-owned bank prepares ESG-reporting assistance and green loans carrying interest rates from 2.75%.

The United States, European Union and China, which together account for more than 40% of Thailand’s export value, are steadily raising environmental, carbon and sustainability standards, according to Charat Rattanaboonniti, president of the Export-Import Bank of Thailand. Continued … 

Thai SMEs Must Go Green to Survive the Low-Carbon Economy

A new set of trade rules is sweeping through the business world. This time, it is not about price or quality. It is about carbon reduction — and whether companies can keep up.

Environmental pressures are rocking global trade and its supply chains to the core. Businesses are expected to take responsibility for their environmental impact, not as a choice, but as a condition of market access. Continued … 

Kok River

PM to press Myanmar on river pollution

Thailand will hold talks with Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing next month on cross-border environmental and security issues, including toxic contamination in the Kok River, agricultural burning and narcotics production, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said yesterday.

Anutin said environmental protection featured prominently in his discussions with Chinese leaders, including green economic development, clean energy and environmentally friendly manufacturing aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Continued … 

Thai police probe Chinese nominee luxury home network

Thai police have raided 20 locations in an alleged nominee-property network said to have acquired 33 luxury homes worth more than 1.275 billion baht for a Chinese national. the homes were held through 33 Thai companies, with Thai nationals named as shareholders and directors. The properties were in high-end estates around Pattanakarn Road and Krungthep Kreetha Road in Bangkok. Continued … 

Hua Hin Links and Transport

Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Tuesday’s news-Dec 17

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Reindeer Antlers, Colored Lights on Cars/Floods worsen in south/Australian tourist escapes drowning/2 Women Saved/Bangkok’s PM2.5 dust crisis/This Thai food can cause serious problems/7-Eleven’s omnipresence/Thailand accelerates universal healthcare/New Thai Police Chief/Thailand investigates ex-police chiefs/Energy demand seen rising/ECONOMY: Will Thailand dethrone Singapore?/Thailand’s Consumer Outlook/Thailand fast-tracks rail expansion/Turmeric to lead the way/Pork oversupply/Thailand and Malaysia trade/TOURISM: Red carpet for big spenders/British tourist found dead/Chinese Tourist Numbers to Remain Steady/ASEAN medical tourism/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Red Lotus Sea in Udon Thani/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s land bridge/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

Police Warn Against Reindeer Antlers and Colored Lights on Cars

The Royal Thai Police have issued a warning against the recent trend of decorating vehicles with reindeer antlers and multi-colored lights, reminding the public that such decorations are illegal and subject to fines. The Royal Thai Police noted these festive modifications could violate traffic laws.

Police Major Gen. Siriwat Deephor, the deputy spokesperson, emphasized concerns about the potential dangers these adornments pose. The decorations might result in accidents or pose risks to other road users. Continued …

Floods worsen in south, death toll rises

Severe flooding in five southern provinces is wreaking havoc in 47 districts and impacting more than 128,000 households, with flood-related fatalities rising to eight. Yesterday, the most serious floods were reported in much of Nakhon Si Thammarat and Koh Samui district of Surat Thani.

They are among the five provinces at the epicenter of the southern flood crisis. The other three provinces are Chumphon, Ranong and Phatthalung. Continued …

Australian tourist escapes drowning amid south Thailand flooding

An Australian tourist had a narrow escape from drowning in southern Thailand after his car plunged into a flooded ditch amid severe flooding in Nakhon Si Thammarat. The deluge has affected 21 districts, severing numerous roads and resulting in the loss of four lives.

As heavy rainfall continues to worsen the situation, rescue teams are tirelessly working to assist those in dire need. The ongoing crisis in Nakhon Si Thammarat has escalated, as persistent heavy rain causes widespread flooding across almost all districts. Continued …

2 Women Saved After Being Swept Away by Strong Currents in Nakhon Si Thammarat

In a tense and dramatic operation yesterday, rescue teams successfully saved two women who could not swim and were swept away by strong flood currents in Nakhon Si Thammarat. The victims managed to cling to an electricity pole, preventing a potential tragedy. Rescue teams from the Mittraphap Samakkhi Foundation in Hat Yai, along with the Tai Tek Tung rescue unit, deployed a boat to reach the victims. The situation was extremely challenging, with water levels rising rapidly and currents flowing at dangerous speeds. Despite the difficulties, the rescuers persevered and were able to bring the two women to safety. (aseannow.com)
Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

PM2.5 dust crisis drains Bangkok economy

Bangkok faces annual economic losses of over 400 billion baht caused by air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns or PM2.5, a recent seminar was told.

Research on air pollution found the amount of PM2.5 in Bangkok for one year lasts about 6-7 months, not just a couple of months as commonly thought. The economic damage caused by PM2.5 amounted to 400 billion baht annually in Bangkok alone. Continued … 

This Thai food can cause serious kidney problems and cancer

Everyone loves delicious food, but sometimes our favourite dishes can be harmful to our health if we eat too much of them. Processed foods, especially meats like sausages, are popular in Thailand, but eating them too often can lead to serious health issues, such as kidney disease and cancer.

Processed meats, like sausages, are convenient and tasty, but they can be harmful if consumed regularly. They often contain high levels of sodium (salt), phosphorus, and preservatives. These substances put extra stress on our organs, especially the kidneys, and can lead to severe health issues over time. Continued …

7-Eleven’s omnipresence in Thailand

If there’s one ubiquitous presence in Thailand, besides the small local shrines, the food stalls and wide clean roads, then it’s 7-Eleven, considered the world’s largest convenience store chain with 85,000 locations in 20 countries and territories.

It’s possible to find up to three 7-Eleven outlets within a radius of half a kilometer in Thailand. Compact, convenient and functional, 7-Eleven seems to be a successful concept that caters to the needs of both travelers and locals alike, especially in places where general trade is not really a pervasive presence. Continued …

Thailand accelerates universal healthcare coverage nationwide

The Health Ministry is set to complete its ambitious healthcare coverage expansion, bringing the 30 Baht for Healthcare Anywhere program to all provinces by the end of 2024. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin announced Sunday that the initiative has already reached 46 provinces, with only 31 remaining to be integrated.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will officially launch the nationwide expansion on Dec. 25 at Government House, symbolizing a significant milestone in the country’s public health strategy. Continued …

New Thai Police Chief Sets Bold Crime-Fighting Agenda

Thailand’s newly appointed national police chief, Pol Gen Kittharath Punpetch, has vowed to improve the Royal Thai Police’s reputation and tackle crime head-on. Following his unanimous appointment by the Police Commission, the Ratchaburi native has outlined his commitment to upholding law and order, protecting life and property, and enhancing police professionalism.

Succeeding Police Gen. Torsak Sukvimol, who retired in September, Kittharath has pledged to bring transparency and honesty to his administration. “I will work with honesty and transparency for the happiness of the people. They are my core working policies,” he declared. Continued …

Thailand investigates ex-police chiefs over gambling corruption

Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has decided to investigate Torsak “Big Tor” Sukvimol, a former national police chief, over allegations of soliciting money from online gambling networks. Additionally, the NACC will gather more evidence regarding money-laundering accusations against Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, a former deputy police chief.

The NACC, represented by Secretary General Saroj Puengrampan, announced that the commission had examined significant cases capturing public interest. One such case involves allegations against Torsak, who allegedly accepted money or assets linked to crimes involving online gambling and other illegal businesses, spanning 18 different categories. Continued …

Energy demand seen rising in final quarter

Energy demand is expected to increase this year, though total consumption dropped for much of 2024 amid slow economic growth, says the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO). Tourism, export expansion and state budget spending will drive demand for energy, said Wattanapong Kurovat, secretary-general of EPPO.

“We initially thought energy demand would drop in 2024 because of decreased energy consumption during the first nine months, but usage changed during the last three months,” he said. Continued …

Will Thailand dethrone Singapore as global investment hub in 2025?

Thailand will introduce the OECD’s global minimum tax of 15% for multinational corporations from Jan. 1 next year.

Multinationals with annual revenues of at least 750 million euros will be required to pay a minimum corporate income tax rate of 15%, in a move aimed to prevent tax competition to attract investment and stop multinationals avoiding tax. Other companies will continue to pay the standard rate of 20%. Continued …

Thailand’s Consumer Outlook: Stable Medium-Term Prospects Despite Short-Term Political Challenges

Total household spending growth in Thailand will be moderate but positive in 2025. Although easing inflationary pressures and a stable labor market will form the base for stable consumer spending, high-frequency data indicate that the trajectories for consumer confidence and retail sales growth will continue to be sluggish, as political instability continues to cast uncertainty on the economic climate.

Real household spending (calculated at 2010 prices) is projected to grow by 4.0% y-o-y, accelerating from the 3.5% estimated for 2024, as consumer spending continues to stabilize with the volatility witnessed from 2020 to 2023, induced by Covid-19 lockdowns and a subsequent recovery subsiding. Continued …

Thailand fast-tracks rail expansion with 280-billion-baht investment

The Transport Ministry will prioritize investments in rail transport systems to improve passenger travel and freight logistics, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said on Monday. This will include Phase 2 of the dual-track railway project, which will extend Thailand’s railway network by 1,488 kilometers across seven routes.

The Cabinet has already approved the construction of the Khon Kaen-Nong Khai route. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has finalized the bidding process and signed a contract with CHO Thavee-AS Construction, which offered the lowest bid of 28.68 billion baht. Construction will commence next year and is expected to be completed by 2028, with operations beginning the same year. Continued …

Turmeric to lead the way in developing Thai herbal industry

A proposed plan to elevate Thailand’s herbal industry to the international level and develop the health economy and medical services was approved on Monday at a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Chantraruangthong in his role as chairman of the National Herbal Policy Committee.

Turmeric

Six key ministries, namely Public Health, Commerce, Industry, Agriculture and Cooperatives, Interior and Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, will implement the integrated program, he added. Continued …

Pork oversupply could imperil small pig farmers

The Swine Raisers Association of Thailand (SRAT) has raised concerns over the risk of small pig farms going out of business due to a worsening oversupply of pigs, while major farms are competing to expand their production capacity.

The country is experiencing an excessive supply of pork because large pig farms continue expanding production without taking into account actual demand for pork, said Sitthiphan Thankiatphinyo, the SRAT president. Continued …

Thailand and Malaysia aim for US$30 billion trade by 2027

Thailand and Malaysia set an ambitious goal to boost bilateral trade to US$30 billion by 2027, strengthening economic cooperation in pivotal sectors such as trade, investment, border connectivity, and tourism.

The agreement was reached during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s recent official visit to Malaysia, where she engaged in discussions with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The two-day visit culminated yesterday, with the 7th Annual Consultation, where both leaders reviewed and advanced initiatives from last year’s talks. Continued …

Kingdom rolls out red carpet for big spenders

Thailand is upping the ante in its tourism game, spotlighting the allure of luxury and high-spending travelers to power up the economy post-pandemic. Known for its warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and world-class attractions, the nation is seeing a surge in plush hotels and branded properties to cater to this elite crowd.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) set its sights on affluent tourists, primarily professionals earning over US$60,000 (2.05 million baht) annually. These big spenders splash out more than 6,000-7,000 baht daily, far surpassing the average tourist spend of 4,200 baht per day or 120,000 baht per trip. Continued …

British tourist found dead after Full Moon Party

A British tourist’s dream holiday turned into a nightmare after a wild night at Thailand’s infamous full moon party ended in tragedy. Christopher Stephen Boucher was discovered dead outside a 7-Eleven store on the island of Koh Pha Ngan, after attending the notorious beach bash.

The 37-year-old from Gillingham in Kent, had reportedly been trying to find his way back to his hotel in the small hours after of the morning after downing cheap shots at the iconic party. He was last seen withdrawing cash to pay a mystery local who had offered him a lift. Continued …

Chinese Tourist Numbers to Thailand Expected to Remain Steady

Thailand anticipates its influx of Chinese tourists to plateau in 2024, with numbers hovering around 7 to 8 million arrivals. This prediction by the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) is attributed to persistent economic issues in China, including the expected economic impacts of upcoming tariff measures from the Trump administration.

The president of ATTA, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, voiced caution over meeting the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) goal of attracting 9 million Chinese visitors by 2025. He cites a mix of global geopolitical tensions and China’s internal economic strains as key obstacles to substantial growth. Continued …

ASEAN medical tourism set to outpace global revenue growth

The ASEAN medical tourism industry is expected to outpace the global market, said CGS International. The report said that the industry is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 18% until 2032, according to Global Market Insights. The region is expected to command around 40% of the global market.

Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia were the top three ASEAN medical tourism destinations in 2023, collectively generating an estimated $2.2 billion in revenue. However, growth trajectories within the region are expected to vary. Continued …

TAT promotes Red Lotus Sea in Udon Thani

Every year, Nong Han Lake in Udon Thani province transforms into a breathtaking spectacle with its expansive fields of red lotus blossoms stretching as far as the eye can see. This natural wonder has become a must-visit destination for both Thai and international tourists.

Visitors can enjoy boat rides to marvel at the vivid pink lotuses in full bloom, breathe in the fresh air, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and capture unforgettable moments to cherish forever. Continued …

Thailand’s land bridge through the eyes of the wild

In Auguest, a small group of villagers from Patho District in Chumphon Province undertook a survey of Lam Huai Phra, a tributary of Khlong Yae. This community-driven exploration, aimed at understanding the biodiversity of a stream located near the proposed route of Thailand’s land bridge construction, reflects growing concerns about the potential ecological consequences of this large-scale infrastructure project.

Video 

The land bridge is part of Thailand’s ambitious Southern Economic Corridor, intended to connect the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

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

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

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

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

 

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  • Emergency medical services – 1554
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  • Bus ticket – 1490
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