Local Songkran events/Group elects new president/Cha Am motorway project/Air Quality Reaches Hazardous Levels/Elephants aid creating firebreaks/Thai education system ranked 107th/Transport Minister Denies Rail Deal/Illegal Condo Rentals in Pattaya/Thailand’s Prisons Overflow/Thailand Ends Corporal Punishment/Rewards for e-cigarette informants/Acute diarrhea cases surge/$292K Donated to Pygmy Hippo/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Bt400 minimum wage by May 1/Keeping close eye on prices/Casino bill before cabinet today/Biggest motorshow yet/25% duties on car imports to US/Brace for impact of US tariffs/Problems in Thai property sector/Tax rules for digital sector/Border, transit trade increases/TOURISM: ‘We Travel Together’ scheme returns/Similan Islands Fraud/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Monkeys Chase British Tourist/Miss Grand Thailand 2025/World’s Most Visited city/CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok celebrates Earth Hour/Phuket rolls out EV buses/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
A guide to local Songkran events
Hua Hin, Cha Am tourism group elects new president
New Cha Am motorway project to begin in 2027
The Ministry of Transport plans to expedite the construction of a new motorway aimed at improving connectivity to the southern regions of the country. The M8 project will link Nakhon Pathom province to Cha Am. The first phase will connect Nakhon Pathom to Pak Tho.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit revealed that the Department of Highways (DOH) is in the final stages of preparing the project proposal for submission to the Cabinet. Continued …
Air Quality in Thailand Reaches Hazardous Levels
Dangerous levels of smog have engulfed Thailand’s north, northeast, and parts of the central and eastern regions. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) revealed figures this morning, with some areas experiencing perilous concentrations of PM2.5 particles.
Over the last 24 hours, a blanket of hazardous smog has smothered 19 provinces. Mae Hong Son has been worst hit, peaking at 122.5µg/m³ of PM2.5, starkly exceeding the 37.5µg/m³ safety limit. Continued …
Elephants aid locals in creating firebreaks in Chiang Mai forest
In a united effort to prevent forest fires, a team of three elephants joined over 20 locals in constructing firebreaks in Chiang Mai’s Mae Taeng district yesterday. The initiative, led by Phra Khru Sangkarak Wiravat Wiravattano, a monk from Wat Chedi Luang, aims to safeguard an elephant camp from potential devastation.
The participating elephants — Plai Valentine, Plai Saen Champ, and Phang Saeng Duen — were previously rescued and now play a crucial role in conservation efforts. Continued …
Thai education system ranked 107th globally
Thailand’s education system has become a topic of heated discussion following its placement at 107th out of 203 countries in a global education survey by the World Population Review. This ranking has raised concerns among Thai officials, with some criticizing the survey’s methodology as misleading.
Professor Prawit Erawan, secretary general of the Office of the Education Council (OEC), questioned the survey’s credibility. He argued that the rankings rely heavily on subjective opinions from 78 countries instead of objective educational metrics. “These rankings represent perceptions more than actual educational quality,” Prawit stated. Continued …
Transport Minister Denies Secret Multi-Billion Rail Deal Allegations
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has denied opposition claims that the government is secretly negotiating high-value agreements related to the high-speed rail project linking Bangkok’s main airports. The allegations surfaced during a censure debate led by Surachet Pravinvongvuth of the People’s Party, targeting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s administration.
Surachet accused the government of manipulating the original contract with Asia Era One, a consortium spearheaded by the CP Group, signed in 2019. According to him, these amendments could unfairly favor transport investors, with a proposed contract modification involving a 159.8-billion-baht concession. Continued …
Crackdown on Illegal Short-Term Condo Rentals in Pattaya
Authorities have launched a crackdown on illegal short-term condominium rentals in Pattaya, following directives from the Ministry of Interior to regulate the sector and address public concerns.
Yesterday, Chaiwat Chuntiraphong, director-general of the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA), ordered a special task force to investigate condominium buildings suspected of violating the Hotel Act 2004. The operations involved local administrative officials, immigration police, and Pattaya City Police. Continued …
Thailand’s Prisons Overflow as Overcrowding Hits Alarming Level
Thailand’s jails are under fire as overcrowding explodes, with new measures yet to materialize. The annual report from FIDH and the Union for Civil Liberty paints a grim picture of the situation, highlighting a 12% hike beyond the system’s capacity.
Despite a fall in drug convictions over the past three years, 73% of inmates remain imprisoned for drug-related offenses, with new drug laws potentially worsening the issue. Continued …
Thailand Ends Corporal Punishment, Ushers in New Era for Kids
Thailand has axed all forms of corporal punishment. The change to Section 1567 was published in the Royal Gazette on Monday, cementing Thailand’s spot as the 68th nation worldwide to make homes, schools, and care centers free from violent discipline.
UNICEF Thailand hailed this as a giant leap for children’s rights, aligning perfectly with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This change, it says, serves as a reminder that a child’s wellbeing tops the list in every decision impacting them. Continued …
Thailand offers rewards for reporting e-cigarette sellers and users
To crack down on e-cigarette use, the Thai government has launched a new initiative allowing the public to report sellers and users of e-cigarettes through the Thang Rath mobile app.
The scheme offers lucrative rewards for tipsters, with informants standing to pocket 60% of the fines imposed on suspects. Those providing information that leads to an arrest could earn a significant share of the fines. Continued …
Thailand issues health alert as acute diarrhea cases surge
The government has issued a health alert following a surge in acute diarrhea cases linked to the country’s ongoing hot season. The warning urges the public to take extra care with food and water hygiene, as high temperatures increase the risk of contamination.
Between Jan. 1 and March 13, more than 129,000 cases of acute diarrhea have been reported, with two related deaths. The highest rates were recorded among children aged 0–4. Food poisoning cases have also climbed to nearly 38,000, with school-aged children between 5 and 9 years most affected. Warmer weather contributes to faster food spoilage, raising the likelihood of foodborne infections. Continued …
$292K Donated to Adopt Pygmy Hippo at Thai Wildlife Sanctuary
Vitalik Buterin, co-creator of Ethereum, has contributed 10 million Thai baht ($292,039) to support wildlife conservation efforts at Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo. The zoo in Chonburi Province operates within the Khao Kheow-Khao Chomphu Wildlife Sanctuary and houses diverse animal species.
Buterin’s donation specifically supports the care of Moo Deng, a pygmy hippopotamus born in July 2024. The contribution will assist the zoo community and its visitors over the next two years. Continued …
- Tourist slaps Jomtien Beach vendor – Continued …
- French Gang Member Arrested in Phuket Over Jailbreak Plot – Continued …
- Police arrest Chinese duo for counterfeit cosmetics trade – Continued …
Labor minister aims for nationwide Bt400 minimum wage by May 1
Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has pledged to increase the daily minimum wage to 400 baht nationwide by May 1, along with support measures for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
During the censure debate in parliament on Tuesday, People’s Party MP Sirikanya Tansakul criticized the government’s failure to fully implement the 400-baht wage promised by the Pheu Thai Party during the 2023 election campaign. Continued …
Commerce ministry keeping close eye on prices
The Ministry of Commerce says it is monitoring product prices and rolling out initiatives to help minimize living expenses for Thais. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan directed the Department of Internal Trade (DIT) and provincial commerce offices nationwide to track price increases and safeguard consumers from any unfair practices.
As of Tuesday, the department reported many prices remain stable. Notably, egg production has rebounded thanks to favorable weather conditions, with the farm gate price for mixed eggs at 3.20 baht each. Retail prices for size No.3 eggs have fallen slightly, according to the department. Continued …
Casino bill to go before Thai cabinet today
The Thai cabinet today will consider the draft entertainment complex bill, which would legalize casino gambling. Cabinet meetings are typically held every Tuesday, but the parliamentary censure debate took place on Tuesday, with a vote yesterday, pushing the cabinet meeting back.
The Ministry of Finance will present the draft bill, but whether it is placed on the cabinet’s agenda will depend on the prime minister, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said yesterday. Continued …
Bangkok rolls out its biggest motorshow yet
The 46th Bangkok International Motor Show kicked off yesterday and will run until April 6 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani in Nonthaburi, showcasing the latest automotive innovations from 54 automakers. Organizer Grand Prix International (GPI) boasts that this year’s event is the biggest yet, spanning Challenger Halls 1-3 and Forum Hall of the exhibition center.
Introducing their latest models are 41 carmakers and 13 motorcycle makers from Europe, the U.S., and Asia. First-timers include Zeekr, Omoda, Jaecoo, Chery, Kinggen, Juneyao, Riddara and Geely. Continued …
US slaps 25% duties on car imports to US
U.S. President Donald Trump yesterday unveiled a 25% tariff on imported cars and light trucks (as well as auto parts) starting next week, widening the global trade war he kicked off upon regaining the White House this year, in a move auto industry experts expect will drive up prices and stymie production.
“What we’re going to be doing is a 25% tariff for all cars that are not made in the United States,” Trump said at an event in the Oval Office. Continued …
Thai auto sector urged to brace for impact of US tariffs
The local automotive industry must prepare for the impact of U.S. reciprocal tariff measures set to take effect next month, which could pile further pressure on the sector, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
The research house said U.S. President Donald Trump remains committed to implementing new reciprocal tariff rates for specific industries starting on April 2. This move is expected to escalate global trade tensions and affect various Thai industries, including the automotive sector. Continued …
Problems in Thai property sector cast a shadow over hotel industry
Persistent low demand and high loan rejection rates, as well as problems related to foreign ownership of condominium units, have lowered the ceiling of Thailand’s property sector, with a cascading effect on multiple sectors of the economy. The ripple effects of these problems are being felt instantly by the hotel industry, causing discontent among hotel operators.
The Thai property market has been struggling due to various factors, such as slower economic growth, an oversupply of properties, and stringent bank loan restrictions — the loan rejection rate for potential buyers is reportedly as high as 50%. Continued …
Thailand tightens tax rules for digital sector
The Thai Revenue Department has issued a directive to the nation’s expanding digital sector, especially online retailers, e-commerce businesses and social-media influencers, about the necessity of paying taxes.
Pinsai Suraswadi, the department’s director-general, said that many young earners, including e-commerce vendors, influencers, and product reviewers, have never filed income tax returns. He added that the department has the authority to audit records of up to five years back, and failure to file taxes can lead to significant penalties. However, he said, filing errors can be corrected. Continued …
Border, transit trade increases 10.9% in first 2 months
The value of border trade and transit trade in the first two months this year reached nearly 300 billion baht, expanding by 10.9% year-on-year.
According to Sasikarn Watthanachan, deputy spokeswoman for the prime minister’s office, the total value of border trade and transit trade amounted to 154 billion baht in February, a 19.9% increase over the corresponding period last year. Continued …
Thailand revives ‘We Travel Together’ scheme to boost low-season tourism
Thailand’s Tourism Authority has unveiled plans to relaunch the popular “We Travel Together” scheme in 2025, with reservations expected to open between May and September.
The initiative, aimed at stimulating domestic tourism during the low season, will see the government subsidizing 50% of travel expenses, with a focus on hotel accommodations and dining. Preliminary details indicate that the scheme may also include support for air travel, a move currently under consideration. Continued …
Similan Islands Fraud: Tourists Falsely Registered as Thais
Authorities have unveiled a scheme at the Similan Islands where foreign tourists were falsely recorded as Thai to exploit ticket price differences, profiting by 400%.
In a surprise inspection, Yutthana Wimolmuang, head of Trang Province’s Anti-Corruption Division, and his team discovered irregularities at the Similan Islands National Park. Despite only 10 Thai visitors being registered via the E-ticket system, 50 foreign tourists were counted on-site, revealing a fraudulent operation of reselling tickets. Continued …
Monkeys Chase British Tourist Out Of Hotel Pool In Thailand
Who doesn’t enjoy having a pool under the open sky, surrounded by lush greenery? However, these beautiful surroundings can sometimes come with unexpected wild creatures that are also rightful inhabitants of the environment.
Things take a terrifying turn when these creatures begin chasing humans within their own territory. Something similar happened with a British tourist, whose relaxing vacation took a terrifying turn in Thailand when he was surrounded by a troop of monkeys while trying to enjoy a swim. Continued and video …
Miss Grand Thailand 2025 showcases cultural identities in costumes
The unique cultural identities of several provinces across Thailand were showcased during the national costume competition of Miss Grand Thailand 2025.
Designers from all 77 provinces displayed their creativity and skill through costumes that highlighted the distinct cultural features of each region. Continued …
Bangkok Was the World’s Most Visited in 2024
Thailand is having a moment. Not only is it Travel + Leisure’s 2025 Destination of the Year and the filming location for season three of HBO’s The White Lotus, but it’s also home to the most visited city last year.
According to Euromonitor International’s World’s Top 100 City Destinations report, Bangkok, the country’s capital, attracted the most international visitors in 2024. A grand total of 32.4 million people made their way to this bustling city, and the data analytics company stated that this number “surpassed (the) pre-pandemic level of international tourism flows in 2023 and continued dynamic growth of over 30% in 2024.” Continued …
Bangkok celebrates Earth Hour 2025 with 134 MW power reduction
Pornphrom Vikitsreth, adviser to governor of Bangkok and chief sustainability officer, announced the success of the “60+ Earth Hour 2025” campaign, which resulted in a 134 MW power reduction on Saturday.
The campaign was organized by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Environment Department, district offices, and public-private sector partners. Business owners, store operators and residents were encouraged to reduce energy consumption and switch off non-essential lights, such as decorative lighting, building illumination, and billboards. Continued …
Phuket rolls out EV buses to boost tourism and reduce pollution
Phuket is set to introduce two new 18-seat open-top electric buses to enhance its tourism appeal. These environmentally friendly vehicles aim to tackle pollution and PM2.5 dust , while serving as promotional tools for tourism, according to Saroj Angkanapilas, mayor of Phuket municipality.
The buses are adorned with illustrations of the area’s distinctive Sino-European architecture, highlighting the Old Town’s cultural heritage. Electric Vehicles (Thailand) Plc has supplied these city tour buses. Continued …
South Korean wildfires ‘largest on record’
Wildfires in South Korea are now “the largest on record”, having burned more forest than any previous blaze, the country’s disaster chief said yesterday, as the death toll rose to 26. Continued …
New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
- The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
- It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm
- Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
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
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.
Emergency hotline numbers:
- Emergency hotline – 191
- Emergency medical services – 1554
- Water accident – 1196
- Motorway hotline – 1586
- Emergency medical – 1669
- Highway police – 1193
- Tourist police – 1155
- Bus ticket – 1490
- Department of Highways – 1586
- State Railway – 1590
