Bar hours extended to 4 am/Restaurants concerned by new alcohol law/State Cars for Tourists/Guide to affordable healthcare/More rain forecast/Reopening border with Cambodia/ECONOMY: 20 million Thais set to reap benefits/US Tariff Remains at 19%/Rare earth deal/ASEAN, China ink upgraded free trade deal/Suspension of 4 power plants/TOURISM: Foreign tourist arrivals down 7.25%/Nearly 600,000 Tourists in One Week/Immigration Denies Korean Kidnappings/Badly behaved Israelis/27 Asian flights axed/Phuket one of the world’s top 25 destinations/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Loy Krathong to proceed with subdued tone/Tourist-friendly Guide On How To Behave/The Queen and the Rise of Thai Silk/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS
Bar hours extended to 4 am starting Jan 1
Thailand is set to extend bar and nightclub operating hours until 4 am starting Jan. 1, a decision sparking diverse reactions from tourists, locals, and residents. The government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, aims to boost tourism and support the nightlife economy with this move. However, critics warn it could lead to increased alcohol-related incidents and neighborhood disturbances.
This policy comes amid existing concerns about Thailand’s road safety and late-night violence. Many observers argue that the extended hours might exacerbate these issues. Some locals and expatriates feel the government is prioritizing commercial interests over citizen welfare. Continued …
Restaurants voice concern over new alcohol law
The Restaurant Association has raised concerns about the new Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (2025), which bans the consumption of alcoholic beverages in establishments during prohibited hours. The new law is due to be enforced starting on Nov. 8 this year.
Some customers order and pay for their drinks prior to the sales ban period, continuing to drink at a venue. However, Section 32 of the new law states consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited during the banned period in any venue where alcohol is sold, or any place or area where commercial services for alcoholic beverage consumption is allowed, even if the drinks were purchased prior to the banned period. Continued …
Minister Orders Probe Into Use of State Cars for Tourists In Kui Buri
The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin, has ordered an investigation into allegations that government vehicles were being used to transport foreign tourists at Kui Buri National Park in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The move follows complaints from local tour operators that official park vehicles were operating in violation of regulations, undermining community businesses.
The inquiry centers on claims that official vehicles marked with the Department of National Parks (DNP) emblem were used to serve tourists, with payments transferred directly to park officials’ personal accounts under the pretext of “staff welfare.” Continued …
The guide to affordable healthcare in Thailand
Thailand’s healthcare system is known for being both good and affordable. Many people in Asia choose the country for medical treatment because it offers strong public services and private hospitals that meet international standards.
This means locals, expats, and visitors can all access reliable care when they need it. For those living in Thailand long-term, health insurance is important to protect against unexpected costs and to meet visa rules. Continued …
More rain forecast nationwide
Thailand’s Meteorological Department forecasts more rain across the country, with heavy showers in the south and northeast as a low-pressure system intensifies.
Scattered thundershowers and isolated heavy rain in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Minimum temperature 22-26 °C. Maximum temperature 30-33 °C. Continued …
PM stands firm on conditions for reopening border with Cambodia
Thailand will not reopen its border with Cambodia until Phnom Penh meets four conditions and restores diplomatic ties, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul declared yesterday.
The four conditions set by Thailand are the withdrawal of heavy weaponry from the border, landmine removal, the suppression of transnational criminal syndicates including scammers, and solutions to the conflicts in border areas. Continued …
20 million Thais set to reap benefits from co-payment scheme
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas says the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” (Half-Half Plus) co-payment program starting today is expected to benefit 20 million citizens nationwide.
The initiative aims to stimulate domestic spending and prevent the economy from slowing further in the final quarter of 2025, said Ekniti. Without intervention, fourth-quarter GDP was projected to grow only 0.3%. With the government’s stimulus measures, growth could rise to around 1%, he said. Continued …
Thai Minister: US Tariff Remains at 19%, No Trade Deal Signed
Reports suggesting the United States has cut its import tariff on certain Thai goods to zero percent are inaccurate, the Thai government has confirmed. Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun stated on her return from the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, that the US tariff rate remains unchanged at 19%.
The minister was addressing speculation that US President Donald Trump had approved a 0% import tariff measure for selected items from three Southeast Asian nations: Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand. Continued …
Rare earth deal tied to Trump tariff cuts: Thailand not legally bound
Thailand’s Cabinet confirmed the US-Thailand rare earth memorandum of understanding (MOU) is non-binding, though linked to trade talks that could see US tariff reductions for Thai exports.
Ekniti Nitithanprapas, deputy prime minister and minister of finance, clarified that the document is not a legally binding agreement, but rather a mutual understanding to enhance cooperation in supply chain development and investment. He stressed that it does not grant any exclusive rights to either country. Continued …
ASEAN, China ink upgraded free trade deal amid US trade tariffs
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China signed an upgraded free trade deal yesterday covering the digital and green economy sectors and supply chain connectivity, amid steep US tariffs on the bloc’s members and intensifying trade friction between Beijing and Washington.
The third iteration of the agreement between ASEAN and China, each other’s largest trading partners, was inked by Malaysian trade minister Zafrul Abdul Aziz, representing ASEAN, and Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao before the regional grouping and China started their summit in Kuala Lumpur. Continued …
Weak demand results in suspension of 4 power plants
Sluggish economic growth has prompted energy authorities to halt the operations of four power plants and delay the opening of a fifth to avoid a financial burden for electricity producers and buyers, says Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon.
The suspension is meant to prevent a glut of electricity in the country when power demand is weak during a period of decreased economic activity, he said. Continued …
Thailand foreign tourist arrivals down 7.25%
Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals from Jan. 1 to Oct. 26 fell 7.25% from the same period a year earlier, the Tourism and Sports Ministry reported yesterday.
There were 26.25 million foreign visitors over the period, it said. Malaysia was the largest source market with 3.8 million visitors, followed by China with 3.72 million. Continued …
Blackpink Effect: Thailand Draws Nearly 600,000 Tourists in One Week
The combination of peak travel season and major entertainment events, including Blackpink’s world tour, drew nearly 600,000 international visitors in just one week, pushing total tourism revenue for the year past 1.2 trillion baht ($37 billion USD).
Last week alone saw a significant spike driven by the high season arrival of long-haul travelers and international fans attending major concerts.The influx was further boosted by Indian travelers following the Diwali festival and massive crowds of Chinese and international fans attending the Blackpink Deadline World Tour in Bangkok 2025 and the ZeeNuNew Crazy In Love Concert. Continued …
Immigration Denies Reports of Korean Kidnappings
The Immigration Bureau has firmly claims that 11 South Korean nationals were kidnapped in the country, after investigators found that several had either already left Thailand or never entered at all.
The bureau’s findings contradict Korean media reports that had alleged multiple kidnappings, raising alarm among tourists and concerns over Thailand’s safety reputation. Continued …
Badly behaved Israelis to feel the wrath of Thai law
Thailand expects Israeli tourists to be better behaved in the future following a meeting between Thai police and a top Israeli security official, amid growing discontent with visitors from the Jewish state.
Police Maj. Gen. Suwat Suksri said that at Monday’s meeting Avi Bitton, a high-level adviser to the Israeli Security Council, had strongly supported the need for Thailand to take swift and stern action, without hesitation, against Israeli offenders, including those running illegal businesses. Continued …
Travel mayhem hits Asia and Bangkok with 27 flights axed
Travelers across Asia are facing major disruptions as multiple airlines cancel and delay flights at key airports due to operational issues. A total of 27 cancellations and 102 delays were reported across major international hubs, including Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Manila, Dubai, Jeddah, Phnom Penh, and Bagdogra.
Airlines such as Saudia, KLM, Hainan Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Air Japan, PAL Express, and SpiceJet are grappling with operational issues, triggering a ripple effect at global travel hotspots. Continued …
Phuket recognized as one of the world’s top 25 destinations for 2026
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced that Lonely Planet has included Phuket in its list of the world’s 25 Best Destinations for 2026. Highlighted for its unique coastal lifestyle, vibrant atmosphere, and rich culture, Phuket continues to stand out as a top island destination.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT governor, expressed that this accolade underscores Phuket’s lasting allure and Thailand’s dedication to quality, sustainable tourism. Lonely Planet’s feature showcases Phuket’s blend of beachside relaxation and local creativity. Continued …
Royal tribute: Loy Krathong to proceed with subdued tone
The Ministry of Culture has confirmed that Thailand’s traditional Loy Krathong Festival will go ahead as planned, albeit with a more subdued tone to honor the recent passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
Culture Minister Sabeeda Thaiset stated that the festival, traditionally marked by colorful celebrations and river lanterns, will continue under the revised theme, Thai Loy Krathong: A Tribute to the Mother of the Land. The updated theme replaces the original focus on safety and eco-friendliness. Continued …
Tourist-friendly Guide On How To Behave As Thailand Mourns Her Majesty Queen Sirikit
As the nation mourns the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has advised the public “to act in accordance with what is appropriate”, and asked entertainment venues to suspend or minimize entertainment activities for the next 30 days.
Things will look a little different for the general public of Thailand for at least the next 30 days as the Kingdom mourns the passing of Her Majesty. There are no strict or detailed mandates about what the public can or can’t do, but if you’re a foreigner or tourist, we’ve listed out some dos and don’ts as Thailand has entered the mourning period. Continued …
The Queen, the Couturier, and the Rise of Thai Silk
Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s 22-year partnership with French couturier Pierre Balmain defined global elegance, launching Thai silk onto the world stage during a crucial 1960 diplomatic tour. The image of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother presented to the world is one of unparalleled, timeless grace.
This lasting perception, marked particularly by her striking Thai gowns tailored from intricate yet modern Thai silk, has a fascinating backstory rooted in a monumental artistic collaboration with Paris. Continued …
- Chinese Man Arrested For 6-Million-Baht Investment Scam – Continued …
- Italian Coach Arrested for Illegal Work on Koh Samui – Continued …
- Two Chinese caught selling crystal meth in Pattaya – Continued …
Philippine peso falls to new record low
The Philippine peso slid past a long-defended red line for the currency to an all-time low, as the central bank signaled more tolerance for weakness. The peso dropped as much as 0.5% through 59-per-US-dollar yesterday, a level that had held firm since 2022. The currency is the worst performer in Southeast Asia this month. Continued …
Israel launches air strikes on Gaza
Gaza’s civil defense agency said Israel carried out air strikes yesterday despite an ongoing ceasefire, after the Israeli military accused Hamas of attacking its troops and violating the US-brokered truce. At least 30 people were killed in strikes targeting several parts of Gaza. Continued …
Brazilian Raid on Rio Gang Leaves at Least 64 People Dead
About 2,500 Brazilian police and soldiers launched a massive raid on a drug-trafficking gang in Rio de Janeiro yesterday, arresting 81 suspects and sparking shootouts that left at least 60 suspects and four police officers dead, officials said. Continued …
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