Controlled Forest Burning in Cha Am/Black leopard in Kaeng Krachan/Bangkok delays pet-microchip project
ECONOMY: ‘Recession’ a concern/Thai Banking Titans Warn of ‘Era of Exhaustion’/Headline inflation set to rise/Middle Class Braced for Tax Hikes/Foreign condo transfers slump/Gloomy outlook for eateries/Wellness industry pays dividends
TOURISM: Nine countries to introduce tourist tax
THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thai-Born Hotel Brands Learned to Host the World
Controlled Forest Burning Launched in Cha Am to Curb PM2.5
A controlled forest-burning operation has begun in Cha Am district to reduce wildfire risk and airborne dust, with authorities saying the initiative is aimed at preventing severe forest fires and limiting PM2.5 pollution during the dry season.
The pilot operation was carried out on Tuesday in the Ban Rong non-hunting area, targeting accumulated forest fuel that could intensify uncontrolled fires. Continued …
Black leopard photographed in Kaeng Krachan National Park
A foreign tourist captured photographs of a black leopard in Kaeng Krachan National Park on Jan. 4, a sighting that park officials say underlines the strong ecological condition of Thailand’s largest natural World Heritage site. Black leopards, also known as melanistic leopards, are a protected species in Thailand and are widely regarded by conservationists as an indicator of healthy forest conditions, requiring large, undisturbed habitats, and a stable prey base. The park includes other popular sites such as the Pa La-U Waterfall, which is easily accessible from Hua Hin and frequently visited by day-trippers. (HHT)
Bangkok delays pet-microchip project for a year
Authorities in Bangkok plan to delay enforcement of a regulation requiring pet dogs and cats to be fitted with microchips for a year in order to help all sides prepare and ensure broader adoption.
The postponement of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) ordinance would allow officials to improve service delivery, expand outreach, and address practical obstacles faced by residents. Continued …
‘Recession’ a concern, says Thai business group
Thailand’s economy is bracing for its weakest expansion in 30 years, with GDP growth projected at less than 2% in 2026, attributed to sluggish exports, high household debt, and declining competitiveness in global markets, warns the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB).
The growth projection does not include years when Thailand faced crises, including the pandemic that caused GDP to contract by 6.1% in 2020. Continued …
Thai Banking Titans Warn of ‘Era of Exhaustion’ Amid Low-Growth Outlook
The leadership of Thailand’s three largest commercial banks have issued a unified warning for 2026, describing the upcoming financial year as a period of “all-around exhaustion.”
Faced with a sluggish economy and a projected GDP growth of less than 2%, the “Big Three” have signaled a strategic shift away from aggressive expansion in favor of stringent asset quality management and climate risk mitigation. Continued …
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Headline inflation set to see slight rise
Average headline inflation is expected to rise slightly in 2026, driven by increasing prices of agricultural products and the recovery of the tourism sector, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO).
The TPSO estimates average headline inflation of 0%-1.0%, with a midpoint of 0.5%, rising from a 0.14% contraction in 2025. Nantapong Chiralerspong, director-general of the TPSO, said the headline consumer price index (CPI) fell by 0.28% year-on-year to 100.19 in December. Continued …
Thai Middle Class Braced for Tax Hikes
Leading economists have issued a stark warning over the proliferation of short-term populist campaign pledges, asserting that these policies are laying a “fiscal trap” that threatens Thailand’s long-term economic sovereignty and its international credit standing.
Speaking at a seminar hosted by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) entitled “They Hand Out, But We Pay: Time to End Populism,” Athiphat Muthitacharoen of Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Economics warned that the nation is entering a “deeply concerning” fiscal phase. Continued …
Foreign condo transfers slump
Thailand’s property market is facing another major test in 2026, after new figures from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) of the Government Housing Bank pointed to a clear slowdown in foreign demand in 2025 — long viewed as a key engine of the condominium market.
A global economic slowdown has hit foreign condo demand hard, with the first nine months of 2025 showing sharp declines in both volume and value, as Chinese buyers — still the largest group — pulled back amid liquidity strains. In contrast, Indian buyers have emerged as a fast-rising force, typically purchasing larger, higher-priced units for real residential use. Continued …
Gloomy outlook dampens prospects for eateries
The outlook for the restaurant industry in 2026 appears grim as there are no new positive factors. A Thai Michelin-starred chef urged restaurant operators to think carefully about business expansion.
Thitid Tassanakajohn, a renowned Thai chef and restaurateur, said the restaurant industry last year was affected by people cutting back their budgets for dining out and a stagnant economy, while foreign tourist arrivals declined year-on-year. Continued …
Wellness industry pays dividends
Health and wellness are increasingly viewed as a new form of luxury, driving lifestyle changes and fueling rapid growth across global well-being industries this year. Dr. Tanupol Virunhagarun, chief executive of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, said the wellness trend will continue expanding over the next five years worldwide.
Thailand has recorded the fastest growth rate at 28.4% annually, far above the global average of 7.6%, generating more than 120 billion baht a year. The country remains among the world’s top wellness destinations, ranking 15th last year, though down from seventh in 2019. Continued …
Nine countries to introduce tourist tax this year
Tourism has surged beyond pre-pandemic levels, placing pressure on popular cities, islands, and natural landmarks. By charging tourists, governments aim to generate dedicated funding to manage crowds, upgrade infrastructure, and preserve destinations, while allowing tourism to continue.
International travel is set to become more expensive as several countries introduce new tourist taxes and visitor fees. From entry charges and hotel levies to higher fees at museums and national parks, travelers planning trips in 2026 will need to account for additional costs at multiple stages of their journey. Continued …
How Thai-Born Hotel Brands Learned to Host the World
The Land of Smiles is no empty tagline. With an innate sense of graciousness and a natural flair for service, it comes as no surprise that hospitality is a field in which Thais truly excel.
Here, hospitality is not merely a profession but part of the cultural fabric — one that has helped position Thailand as a powerhouse in the global luxury hotel landscape. In 2025, Thailand became one of the leading countries in Asia, alongside Japan, to receive the highest number of MICHELIN Keys, with 62 properties recognized for delivering exceptional experiences. Continued …
Top 5 Solar Energy Innovations Driving Thailand Transformation in 2026
Southeast Asia is accelerating its energy transition with growing momentum from both policy and capital. Stronger regulatory support and expanding clean-energy financing are creating a more predictable investment environment, enabling governments and developers to move from planning to delivery.
According to 2025 Boomberg NEF report on Southeast Asia, this year’s auction pipeline — nearly 20 GW of clean power capacity, concentrated in the second half of 2025 — signals a shift from ambition to actionable procurement across the region, and is already reshaping project pipelines and developer strategies. Continued …
Chiang Mai Locals Criticize Tourists for Temple Sunbathing
Tourists in Chiang Mai faced backlash for sunbathing outside Wat Ratchamonthian yesterday. Photographs of the incident were shared online, sparking criticism for cultural insensitivity. The images showed foreign women in bikinis, lounging near the temple moat. Continued …
Japanese Man’s False Robbery Claim Leads to Jail Time in Phuket – Continued …
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
Heavy rain for Prachuap Khiri Khan/Digital systems n Hua Hin/Cape Nidhra Hotel ranked 14th best/Support network for French in Hua Hin/Sportsworld opens at Bluport/Thailand wins 19 golds in SEA Games
THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Fighting becomes more entrenched/Army hits targets in Sa Kaeo/Two Thai Soldiers Killed/Thailand will strike any imminent threat/Half a million into shelters
ECONOMY: Thailand’s Debt Crisis Deepens/Competition to limit restaurant growth
TOURISM: Border Clashes Threaten Tourism/Publicize Updated Entry Rules/European Flight Increase/Plan to Rescue South After Floods/Phuket on high alert for floods
CLIMATE THAILAND: Phuket beach among 10 most polluted/Asia Faces $4-Trillion Water Crisis/Mining boom threatens the Mekong
Prachuap Khiri Khan is expected to see heavy rain today and tomorrow as national disaster officials warn of a period of unsettled weather affecting large parts of the south and the central region. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) said the province is among the areas most at risk of flash floods, runoff, and localised flooding during this period.
The DDPM urged Prachuap Khiri Khan and eight southern provinces to stay alert as an easterly wind surge is forecast to increase rainfall from yesterday. The Thai Meteorological Department’s latest bulletin noted that heavy rain is likely in many areas of Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon, with very heavy rain expected further south. Continued …
Digital systems take on bigger role in Hua Hin operations
Hua Hin is taking steps toward becoming a data-driven city following a presentation on the proposed Smart Liveable City Development Project. The meeting, held Tuesday at Hua Hin City Municipality, outlined how digital systems could be used to support decision-making and improve local services.
A representative from Siam Inno City Co. briefed municipal officials on the My City platform, which links data from air-quality sensors, CCTV, public Wi-Fi, communication tools, and digital service accounts into a single system. Continued …
Hua Hin’s Cape Nidhra Hotel ranked 14th best resort in Thailand
Cape Nidhra Hotel, Hua Hin, a 5-star beachfront retreat from Cape & Kantary Hotels, has been ranked 14th among Thailand’s Top 15 Resorts in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 by Condé Nast Traveler.
The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards honor the best in travel across various categories, including hotel, resort, spa, airline, cruise, rail, and city and country rankings based on reader votes. The 15 resorts in Thailand were recognized in the best resorts across Thailand, including Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Koh Samui, and Hua Hin. – HHT
New support network for French residents launched in Hua Hin
UFE Hua Hin, the local branch of the Union des Français de l’Etranger (UFE), has been officially launched in Hua Hin, offering a new point of contact and support network for French citizens and other French speakers living in Hua Hin and the surrounding area.
The UFE, founded in 1927, is a non-political and non-religious organization that represents French citizens abroad. With more than 120 delegations worldwide, UFE Hua Hin becomes the latest delegation in Thailand, joining Bangkok and Phuket. Continued …
Sportsworld opens at Bluport Hua Hin
Sportsworld, one of Thailand’s leading sports retail chains, has opened a store at Bluport Hua Hin. Sportsworld is widely recognized among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and health-conscious shoppers nationwide.
Today, the brand operates over 50 branches nationwide, offering a full assortment of apparel, footwear, sports gear, fitness equipment, team sports items, racket sports products, outdoor and camping essentials, and more. – HHT
Thailand tops medal table with 19 golds in early SEA Games action
Thailand launched its bid to reclaim the elusive SEA Games overall title in emphatic fashion by bagging 19 gold medals in the 33rd SEA Games yesterday.
Since the inauguration of the region’s most prestigious sporting event in 1959, the kingdom has finished atop of the medal standings 13 times, the most among all 11 ASEAN countries. Continued …
Fighting becomes more entrenched across key battlegrounds
The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia continued to intensify and expand yesterday on the third full day of renewed fighting between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
Official sources from both countries reported artillery and small-arms fire exchanges, as well as strikes from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and loitering munitions. Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) airstrikes on Cambodian military infrastructure also intensified, as did engagement from naval forces. Continued …
Army hits targets in Sa Kaeo as Cambodia pounds area with rockets
Thailand 1st Army has reported heavy Cambodian BM-21, dronem and artillery attacks in Sa Kaeo, with 14 Thai troops injured, and 180,000 residents evacuated to shelters.
The Burapha Task Force continued its mission to defend Thailand’s sovereignty amid the ongoing Thai–Cambodian conflict for the third consecutive day. Operations were conducted across five areas, as follows: Continued …
Two Thai Soldiers Killed in Separate Border Clashes
Two Thai soldiers have been confirmed killed in ongoing clashes along the Thailand–Cambodia border, bringing the military death toll in the current escalation to nine.
The fatalities occurred today in two separate combat zones, where both men were struck by mortar fire during intensified engagements. The losses add to growing concerns over the mounting human and structural damage reported in recent days. Continued …
Thailand will strike any imminent threat, anywhere: Thai general
Lt. Gen. Wanchana Sawasdee, an adviser at the National Defense Studies Institute under the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, said yesterday that an analysis of the terrain along the line of contact shows that the Thai side consists of forests and mountainous areas, which naturally places Thai military bases within forested terrain.
In contrast, the Cambodian side has deliberately built civilian houses right next to the border. As a result, Cambodian military bases are embedded within civilian homes and buildings, using them as firing positions and weapons-control centers, effectively using civilians as human shields. Continued …
Border clashes send half a million into shelters
Half a million evacuees in Cambodia and Thailand were sheltering in pagodas, schools, and other safe havens yesterdayy after fleeing renewed fighting in a century-old border dispute.
At least 11 people, including Thai soldiers and Cambodian civilians, have been killed in the latest spate of fighting, officials said, while more than 500,000 have fled border regions near where jets, tanks, and drones were waging battle. Continued …
Thailand’s Debt Crisis Deepens: Non-performing Loans Spread to Large Firms
Non-performing loans (NPLs) are spreading from small and medium-sized enterprises to larger corporations, with the overall NPL ratio approaching a critical 3% level.
Total credit in Thailand is projected to contract for a third consecutive year, driven by a sharp decline in retail credit and slowing demand from businesses. Sectors identified with the highest risk of loan defaults include real estate, hospitality/tourism, and manufacturing, which are all under strain from an economic slowdown. Continued …
Competition to limit growth of restaurant sector
Competition in Thailand’s restaurant sector is intensifying, setting the stage for slower growth next year, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).
K-Research forecasts that the restaurant sector will expand by 3.4% in 2026, down from 7.8% in 2025. The slowdown is primarily driven by heightened competition from both domestic and international operators. The number of restaurants in Thailand is projected to rise to 690,000 in 2025, up from 660,000 in 2024, an increase of 4.5%. Continued …
Border Clashes Threaten Tourism During Peak Season
Thailand’s tourism industry is bracing for economic fallout, as renewed fighting with Cambodia disrupts the country’s crucial high season, with businesses warning of mounting losses and foreign governments issuing travel alerts.
The border conflict has forced the closure of key trade checkpoints and prompted evacuation of residents in frontier districts, raising concerns about both immediate tourism revenue and longer-term investment confidence. Continued …
Thailand Faces Calls to Publicize Updated Entry Rules
Amid increasing cases of travelers being denied entry to Thailand, tourism operators are urging the government to consistently publicize updated rules and enhance pre-screening measures, as the nation clamps down on multiple visa runs.
Recently, the Immigration Bureau launched four strategies to stop foreigners from entering as tourists while engaging in unlawful activities, including cybercrime and money laundering. Restrictions on multiple 90-day visa-exempt entries have been tightened, limiting foreigners to two visa runs, with excess runs leading to denial of entry. Continued …
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European Flight Increase Set to Boost Thai Tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced a major boost in its tourism efforts with Norse Atlantic Airways introducing five new European routes to Bangkok and Phuket. With these additions, TAT aims to attract a larger number of European visitors as the tourism high season approaches.
These new routes are part of TAT’s airline-focused tourism promotion plan, targeting increased flights to Thailand. The goal is to meet the growing demand from European tourists. From October to December, Norse Atlantic Airways launched key routes: Stockholm-Bangkok, London Gatwick-Bangkok, and Manchester-Bangkok. Continued …
Tourism Authorities Launch Massive Plan to Rescue South After Floods
Thailand’s tourism authorities are launching an extensive, multi-agency offensive to revive the crucial southern tourism market following severe floods and economic crises in 2025.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is spearheading a confidence-building campaign, while the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) focuses on recovering the region’s valuable MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) sector. Continued …
Phuket on high alert for floods, landslides, and strong waves
Phuket has issued a warning for flash floods and landslides, as heavy to very heavy rain is forecast across southern Thailand from today to Dec. 16.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) announced that intense rainfall is expected throughout the south, prompting Phuket to order all relevant agencies to remain on full alert for floods, flash floods, landslides, and strong waves along the coast. Continued …
Phuket beach among 10 most polluted beaches in the world
Freedom Beach in Thailand has been ranked as the fifth dirtiest beach worldwide, with 52% visitor complaints about cleanliness. Phuket’s popular tourist hotspot suffers severe plastic pollution from nearby boat activities. Monsoon season washes additional ocean waste onshore, creating visible accumulation zones.
Water quality concerns deter swimming during peak pollution periods affecting tourism. Limited waste-management infrastructure struggles handling thousands daily visitors. Nearby restaurants and resorts contribute disposable packaging waste reaching the shore. Continued …
Asia Faces $4-Trillion Water Crisis as Climate Change Ravages Infrastructure
Asia stands at a critical crossroads, as climate change systematically dismantles the region’s water and power infrastructure, threatening the livelihoods of billions and demanding unprecedented investment to prevent catastrophic service collapse, according to two authoritative reports released this week.
The stark financial reality: Asian nations must mobilize $4 trillion for water and sanitation infrastructure between 2025 and 2040, approximately $250 billion annually, yet current funding meets only 40% of this requirement, leaving a dangerous $150 billion annual gap, the Asian Development Bank revealed. Continued …
Hidden mining boom in Laos threatens the Mekong
Satellite analysis has identified 517 suspected riverbank mines in Laos, many likely illegal, with clusters along key Mekong tributaries, raising fears of widespread, unmonitored contamination. Officials in Attapeu province confirmed illegal mining remains pervasive despite crackdowns, with most operations missing from official records and many linked to Vietnamese or Chinese supply chains.
The mining surge, including gold and rare earth extraction, poses major risks to ecosystems and communities in the Mekong Basin, where water testing capacity is weak and signs of declining fish populations and polluted rivers are emerging. Continued …
Foreigner Accused of Poisoning Pets in Chon Buri – Continued …
Police Halt ‘Gray Chinese’ Transport Ring Linked to Scammers – Continued …
Russian Overstayer Living on The Street Detained in Pattaya – Continued …
US plans to order foreign tourists to disclose social media histories
The administration of US President Donald Trump plans to order visa-exempt foreign tourists to disclose their social media histories from the last five years before entering the country, according to an official notice. The proposal would apply to visitors from 42 countries, including Britain, France, Australia, and Japan, who do not need a visa to enter the United States. Continued …
Ukraine sends US new plan to end the war as Trump blasts Europe
Ukraine has sent Washington an updated plan for ending Russia’s invasion, Ukrainian officials said yesterday, as US President Donald Trump laid into European leaders in the latest sign of a growing transatlantic rift. Continued …
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
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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Petrol, diesel pump prices cut/Bus Terminals to Stay/High-Speed Rail on Brink of Collapse/Belarusian model killed for organs by scammers/ECONOMY: Thai Restaurants ‘Struggling’/Nationwide Discount Drive/Food delivery apps compete/E-Commerce Surpasses Retail Sales/Energy measures to drive down prices/Bt100-billion hit from dispute with Cambodia/Crackdown on Koh Phangan & Koh Samui intensifies/Phuket eyes transport hub status/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Isaan: What is this little-known region?/CLIMATE THAILAND: Communities at risk from Myanmar’s rare earth mines/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS
Petrol, diesel pump prices cut
The energy minister yesterday ordered a reduction in pump prices of 50 satang per liter for diesel and 30 satang for all kinds of petrol, effective from 5am today.
The price of standard diesel will fall from 31.44 baht to 30.94 baht per liter. Retailers will decide whether to apply the cut to premium diesel. Continued …
Bangkok’s Major Bus Terminals to Stay, Relocation Scrapped
The Ministry of Transport has confirmed that Bangkok’s three main intercity bus terminals – Mo Chit 2, Ekkamai, and Sai Tai – will not relocate to Bang Sue Grand Station as previously considered. Instead, plans focus on enhancing the existing facilities and transport connectivity.
Transport Co. Managing Director, Atthawit Rakchamroon revealed that redevelopment plans for the Mo Chit 2 terminal are advancing. Situated on an 80-rai plot, the project has received a 39-million-baht budget for planning and design, with implementation expected to cost 3.6 billion baht. Continued …
High-Speed Rail Linking Thailand’s Three Airports on Brink of Collapse
Nearly six years after signing the public-private partnership (PPP) contract in October 2019, Thailand’s 224.5-billion-baht ($6.8 billion) high-speed rail project connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports has made virtually no progress. The mega-project, a cornerstone of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), now teeters on the edge of collapse.
Asia Era One Co., which won the bid, has yet to meet the conditions required to obtain a notice to proceed (NTP) from the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the project’s public partner. Development has stalled for nearly two years and 10 months, initially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Continued …
Belarusian model kidnapped from Bangkok, killed for organs by scammers in Myanmar
A young Belarusian model who traveled to Bangkok for a job interview on Sept. 20 was abducted and taken to a scam center in Myanmar where she was murdered and her organs sold, according to media reports.
According to these reports the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the incident involving Vera Kravtsova, 26, and is assisting the family through diplomatic channels. Her mother has reportedly negotiated with the scammers, who agreed to return her ashes without payment. She plans to travel to Myanmar to handle the remains. Continued …
Thai Restaurants ‘Struggling’, Pin Hopes on Government Subsidy Windfall
The Thai restaurant sector is facing a “tired” operational environment in 2025, according to the Thai Restaurant Assn., which is pinning its hopes on the government’s “Khon La Khrueng” (Half-Half) subsidy scheme to generate an economic “whirlwind” and drive growth.
Industry figures confirm that the restaurant business remains a key magnet for attracting footfall to shopping centers, with consumers viewing “eating out” as a personal reward or a special family occasion. Continued …
Commerce Ministry Launches Nationwide Discount Drive to Boost ‘Khon La Khrueng Plus’
The Thai Ministry of Commerce has mobilized over 90 local retail outlets nationwide to participate in a large-scale discount scheme, aiming to maximize the effectiveness of the government’s ‘Khon La Khrueng Plus’ subsidy program.
The nationwide sale, running from Nov. 1-15, will see prices cut by up to 60% on a wide range of essential and consumer goods. Continued …
Online food delivery apps compete over stimulus discounts
Thailand’s online food delivery war is expected to be reignited as Grab has launched new promotional campaigns and offered to cut its gross profit (GP) fee to 7%–9% for merchants in response to the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme. The company has also spent 200 million baht on its promotional campaigns regarding the scheme.
Meanwhile, Line Man Wongnai has appointed Kanchai Kamnerdploy — a well-known Thai actor and news anchor — as the face of its campaign, and has offered a lower GP fee and spent 200 million baht on its marketing blitz. Continued …
Thailand’s E-Commerce Surpasses Traditional Retail Sales
Thailand’s e-commerce market is experiencing significant growth, even amid the current economic slowdown. Major players like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok are driving an increase in spending, with key sectors such as essential goods, fashion, and cosmetics witnessing substantial sales. The sector is growing at an annual rate of 12%–15% as more consumers turn to digital shopping.
Southeast Asia’s e-commerce landscape has positioned Thailand as one of its largest markets. In 2024-2025, order volumes and gross merchandise value soared, contrasting sharply with a decline in traditional retail. The trend highlights a shift in consumer behavior driven by convenience, price comparisons, and promotional deals. Continued …
New energy measures to drive down prices
The government intends to reduce power prices to ease the cost of living and introduce energy measures for the country’s targeted industries.
Speaking after an economic ministers’ meeting yesterday, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the talks had considered power-related measures under the Energy Ministry’s “Quick Big Win” plan. The aim is to finalize guidelines and implement methods to lower the cost of living for citizens, generate income for local communities, and prepare energy readiness for targeted industries that plan to invest in Thailand. Continued …
Thailand braces for Bt100-billion hit from dispute with Cambodia
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s government predicts losses could total 100 billion baht from disruptions to cross-border trade with Cambodia, after a longstanding territorial dispute erupted into armed conflict earlier this year.
Following the closure of border crossings between the two countries, Thai businesses have lost an estimated 15 billion baht per month, according to minutes of last week’s economic committee meeting. Total losses could reach 100 billion baht if the situation persists through the end of the year, the minutes showed. Continued …
Crackdown on foreign business abuses, ownership on Koh Phangan & Koh Samui intensifies
The deputy national police chief for Police Region 8, covering Surat Thani, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui, has arrived from Bangkok. Sent by Royal Thai Police headquarters, Pornchai Khajornklin is reinforcing last week’s crackdown, now extended to agencies like the Land Department and the Department of Business Development (DBD).
This move signals an unprecedented top-down enforcement. The rules for doing business on Thailand’s prime investment islands have changed for good. The advantage again returns to local businesspeople and investors. Continued …
Phuket eyes transport hub status
The Transport Ministry is preparing to transform Phuket into the Andaman region’s main transport hub, aiming to make the island a model for logistics and mobility development across southern provinces.
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced the plan yesterday during a high-level meeting to review nine major infrastructure projects worth a combined 130 billion baht. Continued …
Isaan: What is this little-known region of Thailand?
Isaan is the most mysterious, the most unknown, and the largest region in Thailand. Rich in a unique past, this agricultural land is bordered by the Mekong River, which separates it from Laos, and with which it shares a history, culture, and language. Far from the tourist beaches and bustling metropolises, Isaan offers an authentic Thailand with its temples, natural sites, gastronomy, and unique lifestyle. Video …
More Thai rivers and downstream communities at risk from Myanmar’s rare earth mines
New satellite data identified 513 sites of rare-earth mining that have cropped up across at least six key tributaries of the Mekong, Salween, and Irrawaddy rivers in Myanmar over the past 10 years. These include 40 believed to have opened this year alone, with the total marking a dramatic increase from previous estimates and suggesting the risk of transboundary river pollution is significantly higher than once thought.
The new data and analysis from nonprofit think tank the Stimson Center warns that the proliferation of unregulated mining operations in Myanmar, which are already having dire outcomes in northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces, could be worse for the region’s rivers than expected. Continued …
Naked Foreigner Causes Chaos at Busy Pattaya Intersection – Continued …
Russian Man Arrested for Illegal Vehicle Rentals on Koh Phangan – Continued …
Japanese Tourists Accused of Harassing Pattaya Hairdresser – Continued …
AWS outage shakes digital world, sparks debate over cloud reliance
Amazon Web Services (AWS) suffered a major outage that rattled the stability of the digital world, disrupting over 2,000 global companies across sectors from social media and gaming to banking and education. The disruption stemmed from technical issues at the US-EAST-1 data center in Virginia, not a cyberattack. Continued …
Gold surges past $4,300 an ounce
Gold prices surged sharply above $4,300 per ounce yesterday, approaching all-time highs, driven by expectations that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates further and by ongoing demand for safe-haven assets. Investors are also closely watching the upcoming US-China trade negotiations and the release of US inflation data later this week. Continued …
US, Australia sign rare earths deal as Trump promises submarines
US President Donald Trump signed a deal on rare earth minerals yesterday with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and said Washington’s key ally would get its coveted nuclear-powered attack submarines. Continued …
Climate change, population growth threats as malaria fight stalls
The fight against malaria has stalled after two decades of progress, with climate change and population growth among factors threatening a resurgence of the potentially fatal disease, campaigners said today. Insufficient funding for increasingly costly prevention programs risked efforts against the mosquito-borne illness at a cost of hundreds of thousands of lives and billions of dollars, they said. Continued …
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Hua Hin bank accounts locked without warning/Hua Hin Blessing of the Fleet/Saran Withee Festival/Soi 106 railway crossing underpass/Truck overturns, spilling 5 million meth pills/Anutin formally appointed PM/Heavy rainfall alert/Youth Motorbike Riders Without Licenses/Thai Drivers Under 55 Can Renew Licenses Online/Thieves Steal Ambulance, Call Police for Help/Education system demands reform/UK man latest high rise balcony fatality/Rainmaking said safe/AI traffic signals/ECONOMY: Anutin picks Ekniti as finance minister/Restaurants call for stimulus/Co-payment stimulus likely/Banking industry at critical point/Baht rise abnormal/Hope for Thai Cannabis Industry/TOURISM: AOT Reports Record Growth/Will Pattaya tourism see a September recovery?/King Power Adjusts to New Realities/British Couple Faces Huge Medical Bill/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s 8 best wildlife experiences/UNESCO World Heritage Sites a must visit/CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok Faces Existential Flood Threat/INTERNATIONAL/NEW PAGE – HUA HIN LINKS
Expats in Hua Hin left stranded as bank accounts locked without warning
Foreign residents in Hua Hin and across Thailand are reporting significant inconvenience after Bangkok Bank froze their accounts without prior notice, leaving many unable to access funds for daily expenses, bills, and emergencies.
The stricter identity verification measures, which began intensifying in May 2025, follow regulatory measures from the Bank of Thailand to curb financial fraud, money laundering, and so-called “mule” accounts used in scams. While the steps are said to be in line with international “Know Your Customer” standards, the sudden freezes have caused widespread disruption for expats and tourists. Continued …
Hua Hin Holds Blessing of the Fleet
Tourists and residents gathered at the Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine yesterday to take part in Hua Hin’s annual “Sea Misfortune Sending” boat release ceremony, a tradition dedicated to making merit for ancestors and seeking protection for the local fishing community.
The event, held beside the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, brought together local officials, community groups, and visitors from across Thailand and abroad. The day began with merit-making and offerings to monks, led by Phra Kru Phisutthipawanaphithan, abbot of Wat Hua Hin and adviser to the Hua Hin district monastic chief. Continued …
Saran Withee Festival in PKK Sept 12-13
The Saran Withee Festival: The Colors of the Wind 2025 will take place Sept. 12–13, from 5-9pm in Prachuap Khiri Khan about an hour’s drive south of Hua Hin. The event wil be held at the Saran Withee Bridge Pier.
The event features a hot air balloon show, an lluminated bridge, concerts by artists and local students, local food, and fresh seafood.
Hua Hin Soi 106 railway crossing underpass ruled out
Local residents in the Nong Kae community of Hua Hin are calling for safer and more convenient ways to cross the railway at Soi 106 after officials confirmed an underpass cannot be built at the site.
On Friday, the mayor of Hua Hin City Municipality assigned Natthawan Mitdee, the mayor’s secretary, along with City Council President Cheep Suksri, council member Sorayut Premkamolnet, the director of the engineering office, and relevant officials to meet with representatives from the State Railway of Thailand, the head of the Nong Kae community, and local residents. The discussion focused on whether an underpass at the Soi 106 crossing could be constructed to ease movement across the railway line. Continued …
Truck overturns on Phetkasem Road spilling 5 million meth pills
A lorry carrying millions of methamphetamine tablets crashed after a tire burst, scattering its illicit cargo across a stretch of Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) in Kui Buri district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province. The driver fled the scene.
The crash occurred at around 7.30 am yesterday near Ban Samrong, Sam Krathai subdistrict. Police and rescue teams found a white Isuzu truck with Bangkok registration plates, its rear tires blown and the vehicle resting against a guardrail. No driver or passengers were found at the scene. Continued …
Anutin formally appointed Thailand’s 32nd prime minister
The Bhumjaithai Party held the royal command ceremony in which Anutin Charnvirakul, party leader and MP on the party-list system, was formally appointed as the 32nd prime minister of Thailand yesterday.
Arphat Sukanan, secretary-general of the House of Representatives, brought the royal command appointing the prime minister to the Bhumjaithai Party headquarters on Phaholyothin Road. He then read out the royal command, in which His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua (King Rama X) formally appointed Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister of Thailand. Continued …
Heavy rainfall alert issued for 50 Thai provinces
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather warning today, highlighting heavy rainfall across 50 provinces, including Bangkok and its vicinity, with an expected 80% coverage of intense downpour.
In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are predicted in 40% of the area, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani. Temperatures range from 23 to 26°C to 31 to 34°C, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 35 km/h. Continued …
Youth Motorbike Riders Without Licenses Pose Safety Crisis
Motorcycles are a daily necessity for millions of Thai households, serving as transport to school, work, and everyday activities. But a growing concern is that young people, the group most likely to rely on motorbikes, are also the most at risk, with the majority riding illegally without proper licenses.
Figures released by the Thailand Accident Research Center reveal the scale of the issue. Riders without licenses, in age groups: 81% of 15–18-year-olds, 65% of 18–24-year-olds, and even 33% of those aged over 24 were found to be riding without. Continued …
Thai Drivers Under 55 Can Renew Licenses Online in 2026
In a digital shake-up for Thai drivers, a new ministerial regulation is bringing the convenience of online renewals to drivers under 55. As announced in the Royal Gazette, from March 4, 2026, motor enthusiasts can bypass lengthy queues and embrace a digital route to renewing their licenses.
Caretaker Transport Deputy Minister Surapong Piyachote highlighted that this move streamlines processes and eliminates unnecessary trips to transport offices. However, drivers over 55 or those whose licenses have expired for more than a year won’t have the same digital luxury. Continued …
Thieves Steal Ambulance, Run Out of Fuel & Call Police for Help
Two teenage thieves had an unusually unlucky day after stealing an ambulance from Krabi, running out of fuel mid-journey, and then daring to call the police for assistance, only to be arrested immediately.
The 19- and 17-year-old suspects had reportedly stolen a Toyota marked with “Khlong Thom Rescue and Emergency Association, Krabi” while it was parked with the keys left inside. The vehicle was intended for patient transport and rescue operations. Continued …
Thai education system demands reform after poor global rankings
Thailand’s education system faces renewed scrutiny following international assessments that rank Thai students in the lower half of global performance tables. Education experts caution that without comprehensive reforms, Thailand risks lagging further behind its regional peers in literacy and skills development.
This urgent need for change was underscored at the Beyond Assessment: Driving Educational Change Forum held in Bangkok last week. According to the World Population Review 2025, Thailand’s literacy rate, at 94.1%, lags behind Brunei at 97.6%, Singapore at 97.5%, Philippines at 96.3%, Indonesia at 96%, Vietnam at 95.8%, and Malaysia at 95%. Continued …
UK man the latest foreign tourist to die in high rise balcony fall in Pattaya
A foreign tourist has died after plummeting from a Pattaya hotel balcony. The victim, 74-year-old Briton Keith Jones, was found face down on the ground in only swimming trunks. He suffered catastrophic head trauma and multiple broken bones.
Emergency responders confirmed he died at the scene in the Nong Prue area of the resort city. The fall from the high-rise building shocked locals and tourists alike. Continued …
Rainmaking said safe as Thailand prepares for drought relief
The Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department is stepping up efforts to combat drought and mitigate its regular adverse effects on Thailand’s agricultural sector. Officials have confirmed that water produced through artificial rain, or “royal rainmaking”. is of comparable quality to natural rainfall and is safe for both consumption and agricultural use.
Rachen Silparaya, director-general of the department, stated that Thailand ranks first globally in weather modification techniques aimed at generating rain. While several countries are keen to learn from Thailand’s expertise, practical application remains limited due to the technical expertise required and the need to consider weather conditions, humidity, and cloud formations. Continued …
Green light for AI traffic signals
For years, Bangkok’s drivers have endured hours stuck in traffic. But a quiet revolution has been underway since February, when the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) partnered with Google on Project Green Light.
The initiative uses artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize traffic light timings, analyzing data from 561 signalized intersections to adjust green, yellow, and red lights according to real-time traffic conditions. Continued …
Anutin picks Ekniti as finance minister to push urgent economic policies
Every time a new government is formed or a cabinet reshuffle takes place in Thailand, one of the most scrutinized positions is that of the finance minister. The post is regarded as pivotal for any administration, tasked with steering fiscal policy and driving economic growth in line with government targets.
In the latest government formation led by Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and incoming prime minister, preparations for the “Anutin 1 Cabinet” were set in motion even before the parliamentary vote on Sept. 5. Continued …
Restaurants call for stimulus
Restaurant operators are calling on the new government to introduce supportive measures for the industry, citing numerous challenges, including the sluggish economy, rising raw material costs, and difficulties in accessing loans.
Thailand’s restaurant industry is struggling amid the economic slowdown, said Jakkrit Saisomboon, chief executive of MAI-listed Maguro Group, operator of the Maguro restaurant chain. Continued …
Co-payment stimulus ‘likely to be revived’
The Bhumjaithai Party has confirmed that it is considering reviving the government’s “Khon La Khrueng” (Let’s Go Halves) co-payment scheme as part of efforts to stimulate Thailand’s slowing economy.
Deputy leader Siripong Angkasakulkiat said on Saturday that discussions about the plan are already under way within the party’s executive committee and policy teams as they prepare to take the reins of government. Continued …
Thailand’s banking industry is at critical turning point
Amid global economic shifts and mounting domestic challenges, Thailand’s banking industry is at a critical turning point. Unlike many other sectors, banks are entering a period of declining interest rates, a cycle that inevitably squeezes their core revenue streams.
When interest rates fall, deposit rates tend to adjust more slowly than lending rates, while surplus liquidity parked with the Bank of Thailand earns lower returns. This dynamic puts pressure on banks’ net interest margin (NIM), reducing their ability to generate profit. Continued …
Baht rise abnormal, says bank CEO, calls for tighter controls
Amid Thailand’s sluggish economy, the baht has continued to appreciate, raising concerns for exports and competitiveness. The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has previously voiced alarm over the baht’s persistent rise, noting that it is inconsistent with the country’s weak fundamentals.
The group pointed to links with underground transactions, including surging gold prices, volatile cryptocurrency movements, and remittances from migrant workers bypassing the banking system. Continued …
Anutin’s Return Sparks Hope for Thai Cannabis Industry
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, renowned for pioneering the decriminalization of cannabis and fostering its early growth, is positioning Thailand’s cannabis industry for a resurgence.
Since Anutin decriminalized marijuana in 2022, making Thailand the first Asian nation to do so, the sector has faced a rollercoaster of policy changes. Without a concrete cannabis law, regulation has been challenging, raising fears of it being classified as a narcotic again. Continued …
Thailand’s AOT Reports Record Growth as Airport Expansion Plans Accelerate
Thailand’s state-owned airport operator has reported significant passenger growth across its six major facilities, while unveiling ambitious expansion plans designed to cement the kingdom’s position as a regional aviation hub.
Airports of Thailand Public Co. (AOT) announced that its airports collectively served 88.53 million passengers during the first eight months of fiscal year 2025, representing a 9.2% increase compared to the same period last year. Continued …
Will Pattaya tourism see a September recovery or just wait for miracles?
As the rainy season drapes the city in gray skies and intermittent downpours, Pattaya’s tourism industry faces a familiar conundrum: can the city generate meaningful visitor activity in September, or must stakeholders simply wait for miraculous weather and economic conditions to improve?
On paper, optimism exists. Pattaya is still home to a slew of high-profile events, from Miss International Queen to music festivals and regional cultural showcases. Hotels remain operational, restaurants ready, and beachside attractions await eager tourists. Local authorities continue to invest in safety, infrastructure, and marketing campaigns aimed at luring visitors during the traditionally slow season. Continued …
King Power Adjusts to New Realities in Thailand Retail Market
King Power Corp. once wielded significant influence as Thailand’s most powerful duty free operator. It now battles stagnant tourism, decreased visitations from the Chinese, and increase operational costs.
Such factors collectively jeopardize King Power’s competitive edge. While King Power has exclusive commercial rights at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket airports, the business’s scope appears to be narrowing. This has forced the company to rethink its strategy. Continued …
Brit Faces Huge Medical Bill After Falling Down Waterfall In Thailand
A British couple’s dream vacation in Thailand turned into a nightmare when a 23-year-old soldier fell 30 feet from a waterfall he discovered on TikTok, suffering a fractured skull and leg. His partner, Lucy, clung to him for two hours on a narrow ledge, preventing a further 100-meter fall, until rescuers arrived.
The couple now faces over 4.342 million baht ($135,000) in medical expenses and the need for a costly medical evacuation to the UK. Their travel insurance status remains uncertain. Continued …
Thailand’s 8 best and unmissable wildlife experiences for nature lovers
Thailand’s tropical climate and protected areas support over 10% of the world’s animal species, including Asian elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and marine life like whale sharks.
On your next trip to Thailand, try to focus on ethical tourism by choosing sanctuaries that prioritize animal welfare — no riding, shows, or chaining — and support conservation efforts. Not only are these sanctuaries doing something great for the animals, they are also here to give you unforgettable wildlife experiences. Continued …
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Thailand that are a must visit for culture seekers
Thailand is one beautiful Asian country home to a range of incredible cultural beauties and natural wonders. Some of these have earned UNESCO World Heritage status because of their unique values.
These sites take you back in time to make you experience the country’s golden heritage. On this note, let’s have a look at five UNESCO sites you should not miss on your trip to Thailand. Continued …
Bangkok is facing a compounding flood crisis that could see most of the city submerged by 2030, according to a stark warning from a leading environmental academic.
Writing on social media, Sonthi Kotchawat of the Thai Environmental Scholars Assn. outlined the key factors behind the worsening situation, arguing that the city’s flood-management strategy requires a complete overhaul. Continued …
Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga land top honors at MTV’s Video Music Awards
Pop singer Ariana Grande claimed the top prize at the MTV (Music Television) Video Music Awards (VMA), and Lady Gaga and Sabrina Carpenter scored major honors, at a star-studded celebration of fan favorites in New York yesterday. Grande won video of the year for “Brighter Days Ahead,” earning her the biggest award of the night at the fan-voted awards. Continued …
Chinese travelers mull Russia for visa-free National Day holidays
Russia is attracting more interest from Chinese holidaymakers in the countdown to the weeklong National Day break, with the prospect of visa-free stays on the horizon. Searches for Russian hotels and flights rose more than sixfold on Friday from a day earlier within an hour of Chinese media reporting that Russian President Vladimir Putin had suggested that Chinese travelers might soon be able to visit without visas. Continued …
Jakarta’s crisis is ASEAN’s problem
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has relied on the domestic stability of its member states to achieve regional unity, and Indonesia, as the largest and most populous nation in the bloc, has served as the primary stabilizing force. However, the recent episodes of internal instability have raised questions about its ability to maintain this pivotal role. Continued …
French parliament set to eject PM in blow to Macron
France’s parliament is expected to oust Prime Minister Francois Bayrou today after just nine months in office, plunging the key European Union (EU) member into new political uncertainty and creating a painful dilemma for President Emmanuel Macron. Continued …
Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Resigns
Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced yesterday he will step down following growing calls from his party to take responsibility for a historic defeat in July’s parliamentary election. Ishiba, who took office in October, had resisted demands from mostly right-wing opponents within his own party for more than a month. Continued …
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SRT provides more information about plans for Hua Hin train station
The historic Hua Hin railway station is slated for projects aimed at boosting tourism connectivity and expanding rail services, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) said.
SRT Gov. Veeris Ammarapala visited Hua Hin to inspect the station and surrounding areas, aiming to accelerate upgrades and lay the groundwork for expanding rail tourism routes to nearby districts. In a joint meeting with Prachuap Khiri Khan Gov. Sitthichai Sawatsaen, discussions focused on optimizing the use of Hua Hin station for public transport connections and enhancing local tourism. Continued ,,,
Cha-am Beach May Allow Booze on Buddhist Holy Days
Cha-am s weighing booze sales on five Buddhist holy days, aiming to draw tourists and give the local economy a lift.
Deputy Provincial Gov. Wanpen Mungsri announced plans to permit alcohol on Visakha Bucha, Asarnha Bucha, Makha Bucha, Buddhist Lent, and the end of Buddhist Lent days. Sales would be allowed from Cha-am beach to the areas west of Phetkasem Road, offering limited sales within the municipality. Continued …
British Expat’s Thai Retirement Nightmare
In a tale of shattered dreams and alleged corruption, British couple Martin Savage, 65, and his wife Sudarat, 66, found their idyllic Thai retirement ripped apart by a legal quagmire. What was meant to be a serene end to their working lives devolved into chaos, costing nearly everything they owned, including homes worth £1.5 million (approximately 67.5 million Thai baht).
The couple’s ordeal began with what seemed to be a minor dispute over a boundary line with a neighbor, but it spiraled into expensive legal battles. Sudarat, holding sole ownership of their properties due to Thai laws against foreigners owning land, inadvertently violated property laws when she used these assets to fund their legal fight, leading to both being imprisoned. Continued …
Heavy rains nationwide as Typhoon Kajiki lashes Thailand
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) on Monday (August 25) forecast widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall across Thailand as Typhoon Kajiki continues to intensify.
South (East Coast): Thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with isolated heavy rain in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon. Minimum temperature: 23–25°C. Maximum temperature: 32–34°C. From Surat Thani northwards: southwesterly winds 20–35 km/h, waves 1–2 m, above 2 m offshore and in storms. Continued …
Thai troops told to open fire if Cambodian soldiers encroach on Thai soil
Second Army commander Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang said yesterday he had authorized immediate retaliation by Thai soldiers if Cambodian troops were spotted encroaching on Thai sovereign soil.
The announcement followed reports of Cambodian soldiers, believed to be from the Bodyguard Headquarters (BHQ) unit of Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, were spotted near the border monitoring Thai patrol activity. Continued …
Drought: the silent threat creeping into Thailand and across the globe
The global dro ught crisis is intensifying, particularly in critical regions such as Africa, Europe, and Asia, with severe consequences for human lives and agricultural production, according to Krungthep Turakij.
Thailand is directly affected in multiple sectors, especially agriculture, where crop losses are mounting, water levels in major dams are dropping, and social and health problems are emerging. Continued …
Thai Businesses Under Pressure to Cut Costs as Economic Headwinds Mount
A Thai economist has pinpointed three major factors forcing businesses to cut costs, leading to an increasing reliance on temporary and part-time staff. Assoc. Prof. Somjai Phagaphasvivat, an independent expert in economics and politics, identified the key pressures as artificial intelligence, intensifying competition, and the growth of e-commerce.
His analysis follows a report from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) that noted a significant shift in corporate employment models in the second quarter of 2025. Continued …
Thai economy slump drives rise in temporary and part-time employment
Thailand’s prolonged economic slowdown has directly affected the labor market, with businesses slowing investment, reducing staff, and increasingly hiring workers on contractual or part-time terms rather than permanent full-time roles.
A JobsDB 2024 survey found that over 25% of organizations in Thailand planned to reduce staff and restructure, favoring contract and part-time employment. Data from 2022 to 2024 show that non-full-time employment in medium and large companies surged: permanent part-time roles rose from 6% to 42%, and temporary/contract part-time roles from 4% to 28%. Continued …
Thailand’s Exports Surge for 13th Straight Month
Thailand’s exports continue their remarkable performance, recording a 13th consecutive month of growth, with a significant 11% increase in July, according to a report from the Ministry of Commerce.
The monthly report revealed that July’s exports were valued at $28.58 billion. This sustained growth was largely driven by a last-minute scramble from international importers to secure goods before the U.S. began implementing new tariffs. Continued …
Restaurants pin hopes on year end
The Thai restaurant industry appears to be entering a recovery phase in the final four months of the year, although uncertainties persist, according to the Restaurant Association.
The recovery is likely to be supported by the easing of tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, which has boosted public sentiment in both the tourism and restaurant sectors, said Chanon Koetcharoen, president of the Restaurant Association. However, it is still difficult to predict tourism sentiment toward the year’s end. Continued …
2026 for bidding on 998-billion-baht land bridge linking two ports
The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) aims to open bidding for private-sector participation in the land bridge project by 2026, with the first phase scheduled to be operational by 2030. The project, with an estimated investment value of 997.68 billion baht, is designed to link two ports in Chumphon and Ranong provinces.
Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, speaking after presiding over a seminar on the project’s feasibility study, preliminary design, environmental impact assessment, and business development model, said the Ministry of Transport had been pushing infrastructure development to enhance the country’s competitiveness and strengthen its trade potential in line with government policy. Continued …
Car production suffers sharp downturn
The Thai automotive industry has remained sluggish so far in 2025, as total car production fell by 5.73% year-on-year during the first seven months, affecting employment among car manufacturing plants, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
The total number stood at 835,331 units between January and July. In July alone, total manufacturing tallied 110,616 units, a year-on-year decrease of 11%. Continued …
Phuket tourists ignore beach red flags, attack lifeguards
Foreign tourists spat on and assaulted Thai lifeguards on Nai Han Beach in Phuket yesterday after the guards warned them not to swim in the sea for their own safety.
According to a local news agency, one tourist, reported to be an Iranian national, ignored red flags on the beach and attempted to swim at Nai Han Beach after closing time. A Thai lifeguard approached him and issued a warning about the dangers and the beach closure. Continued …
TAT puts faith in Malaysian visitors despite forecast cut
Despite the target for Malaysian tourists having been cut to 5 million this year, equivalent to the level seen in 2024, this market may reach the same number of arrivals as the Chinese, as it is still unfazed by the situation along the border provinces.
Patsee Permvongsenee, executive director of the ASEAN, South Asia and South Pacific region at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said there is still hope for the Malaysian market amid sluggish Chinese arrivals. Continued …
Thailand and Vietnam: A Comparative Analysis of Tourism Growth
Thailand and Vietnam are two of Southeast Asia’s most prominent tourism destinations, each leveraging unique strengths to attract millions of visitors annually. In 2024, Thailand welcomed 35.6 million international tourists, maintaining its position as the region’s top destination, while Vietnam, with 17.5 million arrivals, surged to third place, surpassing Singapore.
Despite Thailand’s lead in visitor numbers, Vietnam’s rapid growth, with a 98% recovery of pre-COVID tourism levels compared to Thailand’s 87.5%, highlights its rising prominence. This article compares the key factors driving Thailand and Vietnam’s growth as tourism powerhouses, drawing on data from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, and industry insights. Continued …
Jellyfish Safety Advice in Thailand – What Tourists Should Know Before Swimming
Thailand’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. While the waters are generally safe for swimming, snorkeling and diving, travelers are reminded to take extra care during certain times of year when venomous jellyfish and other marine animals may be present.
Several species of jellyfish can be found seasonally in Thailand. Most are harmless, but some – such as the Box Jellyfish – can pose a serious risk. They are more commonly seen during the monsoon months, when winds and currents bring them closer to shore. Continued …
From Chains to Freedom: A sanctuary redefines elephant tourism
As the morning sun filters through the forest in a quiet corner of Phitsanulok province, four female elephants, each accompanied by her caregiver, walk slowly toward their feeding stations. This is not a performance but an observation of a natural, daily routine.
Visitors watch as the elephants use their trunks to carefully investigate prepared bundles of fruit and grass, pulling apart woven ropes and spinning-wheel feeders designed to make them work for their food. Breakfast here isn’t a show; it’s a happy, enriching moment for everyone involved. Continued …
FedEx Implements Sustainable Energy and Water Solutions for Rural Thai Communities
FedEx teamed up with the World Vision Foundation of Thailand to help the Pa Deng community in Phetchaburi province. They donated and set up solar-powered water filtration systems to make sure people there have consistent access to clean water.
The community has had a tough time with its water supply due to power outages. Switching to solar power means they can count on a reliable water source for hygiene and sanitation. To make this happen, over 20 FedEx volunteers worked alongside community members to install solar panels and filtration systems, helping more than 1,900 people across four villages. Continued …
CHOW and Loxley to Install 36 MW of Solar Power Across Thailand
Chow Bright Ventures Holdings, through its renewable energy arm Chow Energy Public Co., has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Loxley Public Co. to install more than 36 megawatts of solar power nationwide. The initiative aims to cut energy costs for businesses while advancing Thailand’s decarbonization targets.
The partnership will see CHOW design, install, and maintain solar systems for Loxley’s partner network under a power purchase agreement (PPA) model, which allows companies to adopt solar energy without upfront investment. Participants will only pay for electricity consumed — at rates below conventional tariffs— enabling immediate cost savings and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Continued …
Australia joins countries suspending post to US
Australia today joined a string of countries suspending some postal deliveries to the United States, citing a “complex and rapidly evolving situation” with US President Donald Trump’s looming tariffs. Australia Post said most goods being sent to the United States and Puerto Rico would no longer be accepted “until further notice”. Continued …
Trump adviser says US may take stakes in other firms after Intel
The US government could take stakes in other companies after doing so with chipmaker Intel, Donald Trump’s top economic adviser Kevin Hassett said yesterday – with the president himself expressing hope to have more cases like it. Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, cited Trump’s plans for a sovereign wealth fund. Continued …
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Feedback/Devasom Hua Hin marks 15 years/Probe Over Bt4,000 Omelette/Restaurants warned to display clear prices/Foreigners Brutally Assault Local/ECONOMY: ASEAN economies face slowdown/TOURISM: 7% y/y drop in foreign visitors/Thailand Medical and Wellness Tourism/Unusual Claims From Australian Tourists/Digital assets sandbox ifor foreign tourists/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Tamarind Night Market/Baan Khun Por 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
Re: Impact on Thailand of retired foreigners
“I think that in times of fluctuating tourism numbers, we must not forget that it is the long-term retirees living here who keep part of the economy running. And they do so for a long time. In many cases, however, this is only possible if their lives here are not made unnecessarily difficult, or even very difficult.
“So my appeal to those who can and want to influence this: Give the thousands upon thousands of retirees and early retirees the opportunity to continue to care for this wonderful country. Be it through domestic travel or “just” by consuming the goods and services offered. And, very few of these people in love with Thailand attract unpleasant attention! With that in mind: Thank you for all your efforts.” – RBM
Devasom Hua Hin marks 15 years of hospitality, rebrands restaurant
Award-winning Thai luxury hospitality provider Devasom marks its 15th anniversary this year, celebrating a legacy built on discerning experiences, authentic heritage, and a deep commitment to mindful living.
To commemorate the 15th anniversary milestone, Devasom Hua Hin will rebrand its dining experience to launch Pribpri, named after the ancient name of Phetchaburi city, offering an authentic Phetchaburi culinary experience featuring some unique local signature dishes. Continued …
Famous Michelin Eatery Probed Over Bt4,000 Omelette Charge
Bangkok’s famed Michelin-starred Raan Jay Fai restaurant finds itself under the scrutiny of the Department of Internal Trade. The investigation, led by Deputy Director-General Udom Srisomsong, focuses on allegations that the eatery overcharged a social media influencer by 2,500 baht.
The incident in question arose when PEACHII, a popular YouTuber with 1.6 million followers, claimed she was charged 4,000 baht for Raan Jay Fai’s renowned crab omelette, despite the menu listing the price at 1,500 baht. This significant discrepancy sparked a wave of online attention and prompted the department to look into potential violations of the Prices of Goods and Services Act. Continued …
Restaurants warned to display clear prices or face fine
The Department of Internal trade (DIT) has issued an announcement reminding all restaurants to comply with the Central Committee on the Price of Goods and Services Notification No 68 (2025), issued under the Price of Goods and Services Act 1999, which governs the display of goods and service prices.
The announcement requires restaurants to display prices correctly, clearly and comprehensively, allowing consumers to easily check and compare costs before making a purchase, while also preventing confusion or incorrect billing. Continued …
Fury Erupts After Foreigners Brutally Assault Local in Patong
A shocking street fight in Phuket has once again put a spotlight on law enforcement in Thailand. A viral video captured foreigners attacking a Thai man outside a restaurant in Patong, stirring outrage on social media.
The clip shows the Thai man hiding under a table while three to four foreign men surround and assault him. Another local attempted to intervene, but the violence continued as the victim tried to reason with his attackers. An outpouring of criticism about the nation’s legal system and the perceived impunity of foreigners in Thailand has resulted from the footage. Continued …
ASEAN economies face slowdown in H2 as export boost fades
Nikkei Asia reported that ASEAN economies are bracing for an economic slowdown in the second half of the year as the boost from accelerated exports begins to fade.
In Thailand, gross domestic product grew 2.8% year-on-year in the quarter ending June, down from 3.2% growth in the previous quarter, according to official data released yesterday by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC). Continued …
Thailand records 7% y/y drop in foreign visitors so far in 2025
Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals from Jan. 1 to Aug. 17 fell 7% from the same period a year earlier, the Tourism and Sports Ministry said today. There were about 20.81 million foreign visitors during the period, it said. China was the largest source market, with 2.93 million visitors.
Yesterday, the National Economic and Social Development Council cut its forecast for foreign tourist arrivals this year to 33 million from 37 million. There was a record of nearly 40 million visitors in 2019, before the pandemic. Continued …
Thailand Strengthens Position as Asia’s Leading Hub for Medical and Wellness Tourism
Medical tourism and wellness travel now rank among the sharpest upward curves the global travel sector has seen in years, and in Thailand the footprint is anything but small. At the recent Skål International Bangkok panel on ‘The Business of Wellness‘, speakers estimated that the two segments, working in concert, could soon yield upwards of USD 17 billion each year, shaping the Kingdom’s tourism vision in concrete terms.
Such figures mirror earlier blueprints in which planners anticipated that health and wellness, together with cultural routes, luxury escapes, nature circuits, and the MICE circuit, would anchor long-term tourism horizons. Today’s travelers, conditioned to favor itineraries that seamlessly weave clinical expertise with approaches to well-being, find in Thailand the patient, practice, and environment long deemed essential. Continued …
Surge In Unusual Claims From Australian Tourists In Thailand
Australia’s long-running affair with Thailand isn’t cooling down — holiday bookings from the Land Down Under keep hitting new highs, and the Southeast Asian gem keeps welcoming record numbers of Aussie visitors. Yet, as departure boards brighten with Thai-bound flights, insurers note a parallel surge in left-of-field claims.
A well-known insurance company has reported a 43% increase in the number of Australians seeking emergency help in Thailand during the first half of 2025, compared to the same period last year. The unusual claims are both a testament to the challenges tourists can face abroad and a reflection of the growing number of Australian visitors to Thailand. Continued …
Bitcoin to baht: digital assets sandbox in offing for foreign tourists
The government’s latest initiative allowing foreign tourists to convert digital assets into baht for spending during their time in the country is expected to boost foreign tourist spending by an additional 10%, says Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira.
Pichai said the initiative, which is scheduled to operate as a nationwide sandbox, will enable foreign tourists visiting Thailand to convert their digital assets into baht and use them via the country’s e-money system. Continued …
Tamarind Night Market: a must-visit evening attraction in Hua Hin
Tamarind Night Market has become one of Hua Hin’s most popular weekend attractions, particularly for those looking to enjoy an evening of affordable dining and live entertainment. Located just past Cicada Market on the road to Khao Takiab, Tamarind opens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from around 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Unlike Cicada, which focuses on arts, crafts, and shopping, Tamarind is almost entirely centered on food and drink. Visitors can choose from a wide range of stalls serving Thai favorites, seafood, grilled meats, pizza, desserts, and fresh juices. Continued …
Baan Khun Por Hua Hin: the everyday favorite for food and live music
Baan Khun Por is one of Hua Hin’s most popular night-time food courts, located on Soi 88 just a short distance from the town’s historic train station. Open daily from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m., it draws both locals and visitors who come for its lively, yet relaxed, atmosphere and wide range of food options.
Unlike more traditional night markets in Hua Hin, Baan Khun Por is designed around a central seating area that can accommodate up to 1,000 diners. Surrounding this space are close to 100 stalls offering everything from Thai favorites such as grilled seafood and moo ka ta to international dishes, including Indian curries, Japanese sushi, Korean fried chicken, Italian pizzas, and Mexican-inspired meals. Continued …
Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.
For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
Thailand -Cambodia Clashes Continue/33 dead, 150,000 displaced/Emergency Talks in Malaysia/Armed Forces Summary/Surin Declared War Disaster Zone/Cambodian shelling continues/Floods Disrupt Northern Thailand Hospitals/ECONOMY: PTTEP buys ffshore gas block/TOURISM: Tourism sector shrinks in Q2/British Foreign Office warns/Travel warning for Aussies/US Issues Urgent Travel Warning/Canadian government issues new warnings/South Korea border travel advisory/AI Surveillance Cameras Help Thai Tourist Police/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Mistakes When Eating At Thai Restaurant/Reliving the past/CLIMATE THAILAND: Roads from Recycled Plastics/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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
Cambodia and Thailand are engaged in their fourth day of border clashes, despite a recent agreement for ceasefire talks announced by U.S. President Donald Trump. The fighting has resulted in at least 32 deaths and displaced over 200,000 people since Thursday, with both nations blaming each other for the escalation.
Leaders from both countries are set to meet in Malaysia to seek a peaceful resolution, with Thailand’s acting Prime Minister and Cambodia’s Prime Minister attending the talks. Continued …
Thailand and Cambodia clash leaves 33 dead, displacing 150,000
Thailand and Cambodia exchanged heavy artillery fire for a third consecutive day Saturday, resulting in at least 33 fatalities and displacing over 150,000 people along the contested border. Fighting erupted for the first time in Trat’s coastal region, where the countries’ boundaries meet on the Gulf of Thailand, about 250 kilometers southwest of the main conflict zone.
Journalists in Samraong, Cambodia, near the primary battle area, reported hearing artillery fire. Similarly, a Thai villager taking refuge in a bunker in Sisaket province, approximately 10 kilometers from the border, noted the sound of artillery and expressed hope for a swift resolution to the conflict. Continued …
Thai and Cambodian Leaders to Hold Emergency Talks in Malaysia
Malaysia’s national news agency has confirmed that Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet are scheduled to meet in Malaysia otodayto discuss the intensifying border conflict between their two nations.
The announcement came via a statement by Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, who revealed that both leaders have agreed to hold urgent talks aimed at de-escalating the rapidly worsening situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, particularly in the contentious area near Preah Vihear. Continued …
Armed Forces Summary of the Conflict yesterday
The Royal Thai Armed Forces have issued a detailed summary of clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border yesterday, also raising concerns that Cambodia may be preparing for a major military operation ahead of any proposed negotiations.
The report, based on information from the Region 2 Army Operations Centrer confirms fighting across seven key areas, a slight decrease from 10 on the previous day. Continued …
Surin Declared War Disaster Zone
Surin has become the first province in Thailand to be officially declared a “war disaster zone” amid escalating armed clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border.
In a directive issued yesterday, Surin Gov. Chamnarn Chuentha notified all district chiefs, the president of the Surin Provincial Administrative Organization, and the mayor of Surin Municipality of the decision, citing the worsening situation across several border districts, Buachet, Sangkha, Kap Choeng, and Phanom Dong Rak. Continued …
Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, said yesterday that Cambodian forces had continued cross-border attacks into Thailand, despite calls from US President Donald Trump for a ceasefire during his talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
“Cambodia has not ceased fire. Shelling began early this morning, with rockets landing outside military operation zones in Surin province,” Winthai said. Continued …
Floods Disrupt Northern Thailand Hospitals as Health Ministry Activates Emergency Centers
The Ministry of Public Health has reported that widespread flooding across Thailand has affected 23 healthcare facilities, prompting the activation of emergency operations centers (EOCs) in three provinces: Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, and Uttaradit.
The Health Ministry confirmed the situation yesterday, citing the combined impact of Tropical Storm Wipha and the southwest monsoon, which has caused extensive flooding in six northern provinces: Chiang Rai, Nan, Phayao, Lampang, Chiang Mai, and Sukhothai. Continued …
Thailand’s PTTEP buys full control of offshore gas block
PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) of Thailand has acquired full ownership of an offshore oil block in the Gulf of Thailand in a $450-million transaction with units of US-based Chevron.
The deal for Block A-18 in the Malaysia–Thailand Joint Development Area (MTJDA) was signed with Hess (Bahamas) and Hess Asia Holdings, both now owned by Chevron following a recent merger with Hess Corp., PTTEP said. Continued …
Tourism sector shrinks in Q2 with business closures from Pattaya to Phuket
Thailand’s tourism industry faced major headwinds in the first half of 2025, prompting growing concerns across the sector. A string of alarming events — including the high-profile abduction of Chinese actor Xing Xing and a devastating earthquake that caused a building collapse — triggered a near 50% drop in Chinese tourist arrivals. The impact is expected to linger through mid-Q3.
Adding to the woes is a global economic slowdown, forecasted to hit its lowest in 16 years, driven by retaliatory tariff hikes from the U.S. This has led global tourists to seek greater value for money, favoring closer destinations to minimize travel expenses. Continued …
British Foreign Office warns against ‘all but essential travel’ warning to parts of Thailand
The UK Foreign Office is advising Brits against travel to some areas of Thailand amid an increased risk to travelers. The official advice upated on Saturday and warned tourists from the UK that they risk insurance issues if they ignore the travel guidance.
According to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), there have been “regular attacks” in areas near the border with Malaysia. Tourists are also urged to avoid areas near the border with Cambodia due to “reports of fighting, including rocket and artillery fire”. Some casualties have been reported, while others have been forced to evacuate. Continued …
Major new travel warning issued for Aussies
Australian travelers have been warned to exercise a “high degree of caution” in Thailand “due to security and safety risks” amid an escalating border conflict with Cambodia that has left at least 33 people dead.
“Due to the ongoing armed conflict … we now advise do not travel to areas within 50 kilometers of the Thailand-Cambodia land border throughout the provinces of Buriram, Si Saket, Sa Kaeo, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Chanthaburi, and mainland Trat provinces,” the Australian government said in its latest Smartraveller advice. Continued …
US Issues Urgent Travel Warning For Thailand, Cambodia
The U.S. has warned American citizens about the increased risks of traveling to Cambodia and Thailand amid a border dispute between the two countries tat has left at least 32 dead and prompted the evacuation of tens of thousands.
The U.S. State Department raised its travel advisory on Friday from level one to level two, warning American citizens to avoid the border between the countries due to civil unrest. Continued …
Canadian government issues new warnings for Thailand and Cambodia
Canada has updated its travel advisories for Thailand and Cambodia, warning of new risks related to the two countries’ ongoing conflict. Thailand and Cambodia have been in a conflict this year over a border dispute, with a military clash on July 24 that resulted in at least 12 dead civilians.
The government of Canada’s travel advisories for both countries had already urged travelers to “exercise a high degree of caution.” Continued …
South Korea Foreign Ministry raises Cambodia-Thailand border travel advisory
The Korean government raised its travel advisory for parts of the Cambodia–Thailand border, as clashes between the two countries intensified.
Yesterday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs upgraded its alert for five Cambodian provinces along the Thai border — which had been raised to Level 2, “Highly Cautious,” two days prior — to a special travel advisory, effective from noon. Continued …
AI Surveillance Cameras Help Thai Tourist Police Arrest Nearly 300 Fugitives
The Tourist Police Bureau has successfully apprehended nearly 300 individuals with outstanding arrest warrants in the last year, thanks to the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI)-equipped surveillance cameras at key tourist destinations across the country.
According to Police Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuekaam, commissioner of the Tourist Police, the system was launched in July 2024 in cooperation with the Central Investigation Bureau. The advanced-camera technology cross-references live footage with a central criminal database, allowing for real-time alerts when wanted individuals or high-risk persons enter monitored areas. Continued …
14 Mistakes Everyone Makes When Eating At A Thai Restaurant
While I’d always been a fan of Thai food, it wasn’t until my first visit to the stunning Southeast Asian nation that I was able to truly explore everything the cuisine had to offer. Those familiar with Thai food will already know just how tasty and varied it can be, with a focus on extremely flavorful ingredients and convenience.
In the 11 years since that first trip — almost five of which I’ve spent living in Thailand — I’ve been fortunate enough to try an incredible array of dishes. I’ve eaten at all manner of fine dining venues, holes-in-the-wall, and everything in between. Continued …
Reliving the past, breathing in the future
Tucked away in Phitsanulok, Phu Hin Rong Kla – Thailand’s rain-drenched sanctuary of stone and story – is a place worth wandering, even in the rain.
In the mountainous north of Thailand, where the monsoon clouds gather like a curtain and the land exhales beneath the downpours, Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park comes into dramatic bloom. Continued …
Kao and Chiang Mai University Build Roads from Recycled Plastics
Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co., a leading Japanese manufacturer of consumer and chemical products, has partnered with the Faculty of Engineering at Chiang Mai University to launch the “Green Pavement” project on campus.
This initiative showcases Kao’s NEWTLAC technology, which repurposes used PET plastic bottles into a chemical additive for asphalt, improving road durability, strength, and environmental sustainability. Continued …
Romanian tourist arrested for heroin smuggling – Continued …
Japanese man caught smuggling live wildlife at Suvarnabhumi airport – Continued …
US Deal With EU Sets 15% Tariff On Most Goods, Averting Threat Of Trade War
The United States and the European Union agreed yesterday to a trade framework setting a 15% tariff on most goods, staving off — at least for now — far higher imports on both sides that might have sent shockwaves through economies around the globe. Continued …
Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.
For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
60 Minutes explores Thailand’s elephants/Hua Hin seeks Bt405 million/Singkhon border crossing reopened/Snooker tournament starting today/Charity run July 12/Sam Roi Yat run July 13/Restaurant Owner Defends Sexy Attire/Police Officer Shot Dead/UK clamps down on Thai massage/ECONOMY: Economic impacts of political instability/Navigating the US Tariff Deadline/Thailand to offer more concessions/Nations chase US trade deals/BRICS members gather in Rio/Economic Headwinds Gather/NESDC revises GDP forecast/Thailand remains vulnerable/Bonanza from Elderly Population/Fitness and Muay Thai Sectors Boom/TOURISM: Changes to European hand-luggage rules/Thailand Battles to Rescue Its Tourism Economy/Chinese Tourist Numbers Plummet/The New Travel Nightmare/Is Pattaya on the right track?/Tourists plead for protection/ASEAN nations vie for Chinese visitors/Eateries hunger for co-payment/Who’s really powering Pattaya tourism?/Don’t feed beggars/Traveling without luggage/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: A tour through Lampang/A mountain temple of faith/CLIMATE THAILAND: Buried industrial waste discovered/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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
CNN’s 60 Minutes explores Thailand’s elephants
From 2024, Sharyn Alfonsi’s report on a group of U.S. and Thai scientists developing groundbreaking solutions to try to stem the growing human-elephant conflict in Thailand. From 2010, Bob Simon’s report on scientists who are trying to understand Elephant speech. From 2008, Simon’s report on an orphanage for baby elephants. And from 2024, Jon Wertheim’s report on a sanctuary founder who rehabilitates animals removed from a shuttered zoo. Video …
Hua Hin seeks Bt405 million to support public services and water infrastructure
Hua Hin City has submitted a funding request totalling 405,957,500 baht to the Subcommittee on Local Administration, with the aim of supporting core public services and improving local water infrastructure.
On Friday, Mator Nopporn Wutthikul, joined by Jeerawat Prammanee, Hua Hin City permanent secretary, Kanokwan Sriaroon, director of the Strategy and Budget Division, and other municipal officials, attended a session at the Parliament Building in Bangkok to present the city’s funding proposal. Continued …
Singkhon border crossing reopened
Trade and tourism have picked up at the Singkhon border market in Prachuap Khiri Khan following the reopening of the crossing between Thailand and Myanmar.
Yesterday, the Singkhon Special Border Pass in Khlong Wan, Mueang District, saw a marked increase in activity, particularly over the weekend. The surge came after Thai and Myanmar authorities agreed to reopen the crossing, allowing people to travel between the two countries using border passes. Continued …
Hua Hin to host snooker tournament starting today
Hua Hin is set to welcome some of the country’s top snooker players as the city hosts the “TKC Hua Hin Cup 2025”, a professional-ranking snooker tournament. The event, officially the sixth in the 2025 Division 1 professional-ranking snooker series, will be held from July 7-12 at the Hua Hin Grand Hotel & Plaza.
More than 300 players, including professional and international competitors, have registered to take part. Only the top 16 will qualify for the final stages of the tournament, which will be broadcast live nationwide via the Tsport 7 channels on Facebook and YouTube. Continued …
Charity run July 12 to support park maintenance of Rajabhakti Park
Rajabhakti Park will mark its 10th anniversary by hosting the “1 Decade Rajabhakti Park Run for Loyalty”, a charity run aimed at supporting the park’s ongoing development and maintenance.
The event, which will take place on Saturday, July 12, is being organized to strengthen ties between public agencies and the local community, as well as to promote health and wellness tourism in the area. Continued …
Sam Roi Yat run set for July 13
The Sam Roi Yot Run, a community road-running event is set to take place on Sunday at Sam Roi Yot Beach in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Organized by the Community Leaders Council of Sam Roi Yot subdistrict in collaboration with government and private sector partners, the event aims to bring together residents and visitors for a day of outdoor activity, local engagement, and charitable support. Continued …
The owner of a popular restaurant in Pattaya has spoken out following an online controversy over her choice of attire while preparing food, defending the look as a marketing tool and assuring the public that food hygiene standards remain high.
The eatery in question, Kai Yok Krok on Thepprasit Road, came under fire on social media after video clips emerged showing owner Napakorn Jiraratthaphak, known as “Nong Peach”, dressed in revealing clothing while cooking, notably without a hairnet or apron. The footage sparked heated debate online, with critics raising concerns about hygiene and professionalism. Continued and video …
Police Officer Shot Dead in Yala, Car Torched in Narathiwat
Incidents occurred in deep south on Saturday, with a police officer shot dead in Yala and a suspected car bomb vehicle torched in Narathiwat, amid mounting fears of escalating unrest in the region.
Sgt. Thanyathep Sikkhachan, a traffic police officer from Krong Pinang Police Station, was fatally shot outside a convenience store in Yala province. The assailants, whose number remains unknown, approached the officer and opened fire at close range, striking him in the head. He died at the scene. Continued …
UK clamps down on Thai massage therapist visas
This year marks the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom — an occasion being celebrated with formal receptions, cultural showcases, and renewed commitments to deepen bilateral cooperation. Yet, just as both countries toast to their historic friendship, a pair of developments in the UK are dealing a blow to Thailand’s aspirations to project its soft power abroad —especially in one of its most iconic cultural exports: traditional Thai massage.
The UK Home Office has officially removed “sports massage therapist” from its skilled worker visa eligibility list — just weeks after delisting “Thai massage therapist.” Under the new rules, only those already in the UK with valid work permits may renew them. New applicants are no longer eligible, regardless of their qualifications or experience. Continued …
What are the economic impacts of Thailand’s political instability?
Thailand’s political crisis, stemming from the Constitutional Court’s suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is negatively impacting the country’s economic outlook. This instability has led to decreased investor confidence, potential delays in economic policy implementation, and concerns for international trade negotiations, particularly with the United States.
Economists forecast lower GDP growth for Thailand, citing political turbulence and potential U.S. tariffs as significant downside risks. The ongoing territorial dispute and trade restrictions with Cambodia further exacerbate economic difficulties. Continued …
Thailand’s Diplomatic Tightrope: Navigating the US Tariff Deadline
As the clock ticks closer to potential U.S. tariff impositions, Thailand finds itself in a delicate diplomatic balancing act, keenly anticipating crucial trade talks and fervently hoping for an extension. The specter of increased duties on Thai exports, particularly in sectors vital to the nation’s economy, looms large, prompting a flurry of activity on the diplomatic front.
The core of the issue lies in ongoing negotiations surrounding Thailand’s trade practices and the United States’ objectives for fair and reciprocal trade. While specific details of the ongoing discussions remain largely confidential, it is understood that the U.S. has raised concerns regarding various aspects of Thailand’s trade policies, which could, if left unaddressed, trigger the implementation of tariffs. For a nation heavily reliant on exports, such a move would undoubtedly send ripples of economic uncertainty across the kingdom. Continued …
Thailand to offer US more trade concessions to avert 36% tariff
The U.S. has threatened to impose a 36% levy on imports from Thailand if a reduction cannot be negotiated before July 9, when a 90-day pause capping tariffs at a baseline of 10% for most nations expires.
Thailand is pushing for a best-case rate of 10%, Pichai said in an interview, adding that even a range of between 10% and 20% would be acceptable. Pichai expects to submit the revised offer before July 9, the report said. Continued …
Nations chase US trade deals as Bessent hints at extension
Major U.S. trading partners hurried over the weekend to secure trade deals or lobby for extra time, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that some countries lacking an agreement by the deadline on Wednesday will have the option of a three-week extension to negotiate.
“We’re going to be very busy over the next 72 hours,” Bessent said yesterday on CNN’s State of the Union, referring to the time left before the administration’s July 9 deadline. Continued …
BRICS members gather in Rio as Trump tariff wars loom
BRICS leaders descended on sunny Rio de Janeiro yesterday, ready to issue a dark warning that U.S. President Donald Trump’s “indiscriminate” import tariffs risk hurting the global economy.
The 11 emerging nations — including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — represent about half the world’s population and 40% of global economic output. The bloc is divided about much, but has found common cause when it comes to the mercurial U.S. leader and his stop-start tariff wars. Continued …
Thai Industry Urged to Adapt as Economic Headwinds Gather
Thailand’s industrial sector faces a challenging second half of the year, with looming U.S. import tariff negotiations and persistent domestic issues such as political instability and high household debt. The Office of Industrial Economics (OIE), Industry Ministry, is urging businesses to adapt, outlining six key strategies to weather these economic headwinds.
OIE Director-General Passakorn Chairat acknowledged that while the overall economic picture appears positive, industry is grappling with several uncertainties. The potential for increased U.S. import tariffs is a significant concern, threatening to slow international trade. Continued …
NESDC revises GDP forecast
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) will revise its GDP forecast for 2025, as the reciprocal tariff negotiations with the United States have yet to yield any results.
NESDC Secretary-general Danucha Pichayanan said GDP is expected to grow between 1.3% to 2.3% this year. If the U.S. decides to impose the maximum tariff of 36% on exports from Thailand, GDP will grow by about 1.8% in 2025, he added. Continued …
Thailand remains vulnerable, despite push for FTAs
As Thailand pursues more free trade agreements (FTAs) with other nations, Trinh Nguyen, an economist at Natixis, said that the country remains vulnerable, as regionalization is not a realistic solution.
Speaking at a recent seminar in Singapore, Nguyen noted that Thailand’s efforts to secure an FTA with the European Union may be beneficial, but FTAs alone will not shield the country from growing economic volatility. Continued …
Thailand Eyes Economic Bonanza from Growing Elderly Population
Thailand is poised to tap into a colossal 3.5 trillion baht “silver economy” within the next decade, driven by the rapid expansion of its elderly population.
A recent study by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), commissioned by the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), outlines the vast economic and social value to be unlocked. Continued …
Fitness and Muay Thai Sectors Boom, Market Hits $3.37 Billion
Sales of health-related products and services are increasing. This offers opportunities for entrepreneurs who want to capitalize on this trend, especially in the fitness sector, which is growing steadily according to the Thai Ministry of Commerce.
Poonpong Naiyapattharagorn, firector of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) at the Thai Ministry of Commerce, explained that the fitness industry is growing steadily due to consumers’ growing awareness and appreciation of health and wellness. This includes not only exercise, but also the consumption of healthy foods and supplements, all of which contribute to the overall increase in sales of health-related products and services. Continued …
Changes coming to European hand-luggage rules
European lawmakers have voted to get rid of tricksy, confusing airline carry-on fees and promote standardization across the industry. The proposal still requires approval from EU member states but, if adopted, travelers could soon be guaranteed a lot more free hand luggage than is currently standard on the region’s budget airlines.
Right now, low-cost carriers, including EasyJet and Ryanair, allow passengers one free bag that must fit under the seat in front. However, with no standardized dimensions across airlines, travelers have often been caught unawares with incorrectly sized bags when switching between carriers. Continued …
Thailand Battles to Rescue Its Tourism Economy Amid Safety Concerns, Rising Competition
Thailand’s tourism industry is facing one of its toughest challenges in 2025 as it struggles to regain momentum amid rising safety concerns and fierce regional competition from Malaysia and Vietnam. Once the leader in Southeast Asian tourism, Thailand is now seeing a sharp drop in Chinese arrivals — the country’s most vital market — due to growing fears over crime, political instability, and high-profile incidents that have tarnished its image as a safe destination.
At the same time, neighboring nations like Malaysia and Vietnam have rapidly expanded their visa policies, flight connectivity, and digital tourism strategies, drawing tourists away from Thailand with promises of safer, smoother, and more affordable travel experiences. These dual pressures are forcing Thailand to urgently recalibrate its strategy as its long-standing dominance in the region is being rapidly eroded. Continued …
Chinese Tourist Numbers to Thailand Plummet 34%
Thailand’s tourism sector is grappling with a significant downturn in arrivals from China, with numbers plummeting by 34% in the first half of 2025. This sharp decline has forced Thai tourism authorities and operators to revise their forecasts and ramp up efforts to attract visitors, amid a challenging global environment.
Statistics for the first six months of 2025 show a cumulative 16,685,466 international tourist arrivals in Thailand, marking a 4.7% decrease year-on-year. A major factor in this slump is the Chinese market, which saw only 2,265,556 visitors, a substantial 34.1% drop. Continued …
How Thailand Became the New Travel Nightmare
Recently, both the U.S. and Canadian governments updated their travel advisories for Thailand, signaling the need for extra vigilance despite the country’s continued popularity. As one of the world’s top travel destinations, Thailand has long been beloved by tourists for its vibrant cities, picturesque beaches, and rich cultural experiences.
However, the updated advisories from the U.S. Department of State and the Canadian government suggest that while the country remains a favorite for travelers, certain regions require extra caution. Continued …
Is Pattaya on the right track — or just chasing shadows?
For decades, Thailand stood as Southeast Asia’s unrivaled tourism powerhouse. Cities like Bangkok dazzled with temples and street food, while island destinations like Phuket and Pattaya catered to everyone from luxury seekers to backpackers and retirees.
But as 2025 unfolds, a new reality is setting in: Thailand may no longer be the region’s top draw — and Pattaya is a mirror of that shifting landscape. Continued …
Foreign tourists plead for protection on Pattaya streets
After a disturbing late-night incident in which a foreign tourist was attacked on the street by a group of men, concerns over public safety in Pattaya have resurfaced with renewed urgency. For a destination that relies so heavily on its international reputation, many visitors now say they feel less like valued guests — and more like targets.
“They kicked the farang for no reason. Maybe just for fun. Crazy,” one eyewitness wrote on social media, capturing the stunned reaction that has followed the attack. The incident, which reportedly occurred in the early hours — around 3:50 am — has raised the old, uncomfortable question: are foreign tourists truly protected while walking the streets of Pattaya? Continued …
Tourism battle intensifies as ASEAN nations vie for Chinese visitors
As tourism becomes the fastest way to inject revenue into national economies, countries around the world are fiercely competing for international travelers amid a global economic slowdown. This battle for tourists now involves aggressive visa facilitation, streamlined travel measures, and significant promotional budgets — efforts not merely aimed at enhancing the national image, but at generating tangible economic circulation.
In one development, Vietnam welcomed more Chinese tourists than Thailand for the first time in the first quarter of 2025. While Chinese citizens are still traveling abroad, many are choosing destinations other than Thailand, even as Southeast Asian nations compete with visa-free entry campaigns. Continued …
Eateries hunger for co-payment revival
Restaurateurs view the “Tiew Thai Khon La Khrueng” travel campaign as inadequate to support the restaurant sector during the low season and called on the government to revive the “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment subsidy scheme.
Launched during the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration, Khon La Khrueng sought to provide financial relief and lift consumer spending power dented by the pandemic. Continued …
Data reveals who’s really powering Pattaya tourism
While Pattaya’s image as a European holiday haven still lingers in the local imagination, hard data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports shows a different reality. The city’s tourism survival in 2025 is increasingly thanks to its Asian neighbors — not long-haul European visitors.
During the first half of 2025, a total of 16,685,466 international tourists entered Thailand. That figure marks a 4.66% decline compared to the same period last year. Tourism revenue also dipped slightly, falling by 2.31% to just over 771 billion baht. In June alone, the situation worsened, with foreign arrivals dropping 15.24% year-on-year to 2,322,772. Continued …
Thai minister begs tourists not to feed beggars
Instead of tackling Thailand’s growing homelessness crisis head-on, a top Thai minister has urged the public to stop giving handouts to beggars, especially in tourist hotspots like Phuket, Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chon Buri.
Varawut Silpa-archa, the minister of Social Development and Human Security, claimed well-meaning generosity was actually making the problem worse. “Begging has existed for years but it’s important to understand that it’s illegal under Thai law.” Continued …
The growing trend of traveling without luggage
If you’ve come across the term “Naked Flying” on social media and found yourself puzzled, you’re not alone. However, this term has nothing to do with stripping down, but rather refers to a minimalist travel trend that’s rapidly gaining traction among Gen Z and Millennials.
The concept of Naked Flying is simple: it’s about traveling without bulky luggage or checked-in bags. Travelers only carry essentials that can easily fit under the seat in front of them, such as a small backpack, a laptop bag, or even just items tucked in their shirt or pants pockets. Continued …
A tour through Lampang, northern Thailand’s ancient city
Lampang City in the namesake province, nestled in the Wang River Valley, was a center of the Lanna Kingdom from the 13th to 18th centuries.
An attraction in the city center is the 300-year-old Wat Chiang Rai temple, built by a noble from Chiang Rai. Situated on a main road, the temple has no gates or walls and has a large white Buddha statue at the entrance. Visitors often arrive by horse-drawn carriage, a common mode of transport there. Continued …
Wat Pha Sorn Kaew: a mountain temple of faith
Perched high on a misty mountain in northern Thailand, Wat Pha Sorn Kaew stuns visitors with its intricate mosaic beauty and profound spiritual calm. Rising above the clouds in Khao Kho district, Wat Pha Sorn Kaew — meaning “temple on a glass cliff” — is a relative newcomer among Thailand’s sacred landmarks.
Built in 2004, the temple was designed as a meditation retreat nestled in the mountains, offering spiritual solitude and panoramic views. Though young in age, it radiates timeless serenity. Continued …
Over 50,000 tons of buried industrial waste discovered in EEC
Industry Minister Akanat Promphan has declared a strong stance against the illegal import of industrial waste, posting a statement on his official Facebook page under the message: “Shut the door and beat the devil.”
In the post, he criticized Thailand’s longstanding neglect in regulating the industrial sector, which has allowed the country to be viewed as a dumping ground for counterfeit goods, substandard products, and toxic waste a haven for unscrupulous “zero-dollar industries” operating without responsibility or oversight. Continued …
UK Woman Imprisoned Over Drug Smuggling Plot from Thailand – Continued …
2 Iranian men arrested for stealing from Phuket shoe shop – Continued …
Parisians take a historic plunge into the Seine after 100 years
Cries of “It is warm!” rang out across the Seine on Saturday morning as Parisians jumped into the river — legally — for the first time in more than 100 years. Public swimming was allowed in designated areas of the Seine, including two newly built wooden decks near the Eiffel Tower and the Île Saint-Louis in central Paris. Continued …
Death toll climbs to 81 as flood-ravaged Texas faces more rain
Authorities yesterday were in a desperate search to find those still missing after historic flash floods swept across central Texas — including 10 children from a beloved all-girls camp — as the death toll rose and forecasters warned of more rain. Continued …
Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.
For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
Feedback/Is a Coup Coming?/Red Cross Fair/Bangkok to Hua Hin minus Rama II/Hua Hin’s missing twin/Alcohol sales hours to change/Deadly snakes in Thailand/PKK Helicopter Crash/Possible gas price spike/Thailand Eases Border Rules/Thailand cuts internet links to Cambodia/Explosive Device Incidents//Bomb plot in Phuket/Bomb squad and sniffer dogs/Group Torches Government Office/Suspected Explosive Device Found/IEDs defused in Krabi national park/Crackdown on Foreign Land Ownership Nominees/Earthquake swarm rattles Andaman/ECONOMY: Minister Dismisses US Tariff Claims/Thai growth projection cut/Political turmoil sparks economic fears/Thailand’s Role in ASEAN Supply Chains/Growth of eateries outpaces tourism/Cannabis dreams go up in smoke/TOURISM: Tourism businesses unfazed by casino bill delay/Bangkok–Lampang route suspended/CLIMATE THAILAND: Mobile phones polluting Thailand/Sustainable data centers/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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
Re: Hua Hin beachfront demolition
“Sad about the end of the seafood piers, one of the charming, iconic features of Hua Hin. Presumably, there will be a Pattaya-style promenade, marina instead?” – AJB
Editor: A “promenade” is in the plans. However, legal action by the affected businesses is a possibility, delaying any demolition and possible “improvements” perhaps by years.
Red Cross and Hua Hin District Fair starts today
The 27th annual Red Cross and Hua Hin District Fair will take place from June 27 to July 6. The fair, organized by Hua Hin District in partnership with the Hua Hin District Branch of the Thai Red Cross Society, will be held at the activity area behind Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall on Hua Hin Soi 102.
The ten-day event is expected to draw large crowds, with proceeds supporting disaster relief and helping vulnerable groups across the local community. Continued …
Is a Coup Coming Soon in Thailand?
Thailand is, notoriously, the only middle-income or high-middle income country that continues to have regular coups. Thailand has had 22 coup attempts since the end of the absolute monarchy in the 1930s, and 13 of those were successful.
The Thai military, throughout the decades and up to now, has had enormous influence over all sectors of society – much more than in most other developing democracies. The military has launched coups so many times that it has developed what many experts as a “coup culture” in which the more coups happen, the more they create an idea in the military in which coups are acceptable. Continued …
Bangkok to Hua Hin minus Rama II Road: a how-to
Traveling from Bangkok to southern destinations like Hua Hin often requires using Rama II Road — one of the country’s busiest and most accident-prone highways. Many drivers have come to dread the trip. Some have even crossed Hua Hin off their list of weekend destinations — to the dismay of businesses in the beach resort town 200 kilometers south of the capital.
Between 2018 and 2024, authorities reported 2,245 accidents, resulting in 136 fatalities and 1,320 injuries, along Rama II Road, where construction never seems to end. As a result, many drivers now opt for detours to avoid this high-risk stretch. Continued …
The untold story of Hua Hin’s missing twin
You may know Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, but few realize it once had a twin — Prachanta Khiri Khet, now known as Koh Kong in Cambodia. This special report traces the colonial-era conflicts and treaties that led to the loss of this once-Siamese province. Video …
Alcohol sales hours to change, but 2-5 pm ban remains
In a major shakeup to alcohol sales in Thailand, the Royal Gazette has announced that new regulations will take effect starting today. Under the new rules, the sale of alcoholic beverages will be restricted to specific hours, but there are three major exceptions. Here’s what you need to know about the changes that will affect bars, restaurants, and travelers.
Yesterday, the Royal Gazette published an official announcement from the prime minister’s office, signed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, regarding the revised period for prohibiting the sale of alcohol this year. The announcement aims to update the regulations set by the prime minister’s announcement on the time period for prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages to better align with current circumstances. Continued …
Seven deadly snakes in Thailand and how to spot them
As snakes seek warm, dry shelter during the rainy season, encounters in residential areas increase significantly. Knowing which species are venomous and how to distinguish them is important and might be life-saving information.
While many suggest that a snake’s head shape or body pattern could indicate venom, this categorization has proven unreliable, as snakes with similar characteristics can be either venomous or harmless. Continued …
One Month On, No Official Conclusion in PKK Helicopter Crash
One month after a fatal helicopter crash in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province claimed the lives of three police personnel, authorities have yet to provide an official explanation for the incident. The crash, which involved a Bell 212 helicopter operated by the Royal Thai Police, occurred on May 24.
Police Gen. Thatchai Pitanilabut, inspector general of the Royal Thai Police, confirmed the investigation remains ongoing. He stated that while the inquiry is still in the fact-finding stage, a preliminary determination of the cause is expected by July. Continued …
Thai regulator prepares for possible gas price spike
The tentative ceasefire between Israel and Iran is giving Thai energy regulators more time to brace for liquefied natural gas (LNG) price fluctuations, which often lead to higher electricity bills, says an energy official who requested anonymity.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is working on plans to ensure Thailand will have sufficient LNG for use, acquiring it at prices that will not affect the cost of power generation in the country, said the official. Gas makes up 60% of the fuels used for electricity generation in Thailand. Changes in LNG prices could mean higher or lower electricity bills. Continued …
Thailand Eases Border Rules with Cambodia
The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has temporarily relaxed border rules at four key checkpoints in Sa Kaeo province. This follows days of intense restrictions due to a political spat between Thailand and Cambodia.
The change addresses the plight of affected locals and traders caught in the crisis. Many on both sides have been struggling as the dispute disrupted trade and daily life. The easing of rules is a glimmer of hope for those who’ve been waiting anxiously to cross the border. Continued …
Thailand cuts all internet links to Cambodia
Thailand’s telecom regulator has ordered all Thai operators to stop providing broadband and mobile internet connections to Cambodia, while requiring reports of SIM card sales every 15 days.
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) said it had imposed the measures as part of the government’s drive to take down call center scammers and cut cybercrime. Continued …
Thai Tourism Provinces Elevate Security After Explosive Device Incidents
Governors of Thailand’s three major tourism provinces – Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga – have announced heightened security measures and emergency protocols following the discovery of explosive devices at popular tourist locations this week.
Police investigations led to the arrest of two suspects from Pattani province. CCTV footage revealed the pair began their operation on June 21, with devices planted between June 21-23. Once locations were identified, authorities mobilized teams to search and systematically defuse the planted explosives, including at Phuket International Airport between June 24 and 26. Continued …
Bomb plot in Phuket: 6 suspects arrested, officials continue search
Officials are searching for two more bombs, which the suspects claimed to have hidden on Surin Beach in Phuket. All six criminals involved in the bomb plot were arrested.
Officers from Mueang Phang Nga Police Station apprehended two suspects, 29 year old Muhama Wadeng and 27 year old Sulaiman Gaza, in the southern province of Phang Nga at 3.30 am Tuesday. The pair were caught travelling in a vehicle carrying a bomb. The suspects claimed that an unidentified person had hired them to deliver the device from Songkhla to Phuket. Continued …
Patong Beach gets bomb squad and sniffer dogs for tourist safety
Phuket officials are ramping up security in one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations after a safety inspection at Patong Beach, aimed at reassuring tourists and locals. On Wednesday, a bomb scare was averted thanks to the swift action of local police, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units, and specially trained sniffer dogs.
The inspection involved K9 sniffer dogs, specially trained to detect explosives and other dangerous materials. The beach, a hotspot for both tourists and vendors, is regularly patrolled by the police as part of their ongoing vigilance. Continued …
Armed Group Torches Government Office and Vehicles, Fake Bombs Planted
A wave of coordinated attacks shook Pattani Province Wednesday night, as a group of at least 10 armed men stormed and set fire to the Plen Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO)building in Sai Buri District, destroying four vehicles and leaving behind what appeared to be explosive devices at multiple sites across two districts.
The incident prompted police, firefighters, and emergency response teams to rush to the scene. By the time they arrived, flames were already engulfing the lower floor of the two-story SAO building and had spread to four parked vehicles, a fire truck, a rubbish collection truck, and two pickup trucks, all of which were destroyed despite over an hour of intensive firefighting. Continued …
Suspected Explosive Device Found Outside Phang Nga Governor’s Residence
Authorities in Phang Nga were placed on high alert after a suspected explosive device was discovered yesterday near the perimeter fence of the provincial governor’s residence. Initial reports indicate that the device, disguised to resemble a rock, contained an operational explosive mechanism with a possible blast radius of up to 10 meters.
Local police, in cooperation with administrative officers and volunteer defense corps (Or Sor), swiftly secured the area. An explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team was deployed to the scene, successfully disabling the device and removing it for further forensic examination by the Central Forensic Science Division and for confirmation that this was a credible explosive device. Continued …
IEDs defused in Krabi national park
Security has been tightened in national parks in Thailand’s southern border provinces and nearby areas after three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were discovered — two at Noppharat Thara Beach and one at a hardwood sculpture in Krabi town. All devices have since been safely defused by the EOD team.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has ordered the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to heighten safety measures in protected forest areas nationwide, with special focus on the three southern border provinces and adjacent areas. Continued …
Ombudsman Demands Crackdown on Foreign Land Ownership Nominees
Thailand’s ombudsman has formally urged the prime minister to launch a swift and decisive crackdown on the widespread use of “nominees” by foreign nationals to illegally acquire land and real estate across the country. This follows the discovery of extensive land and property holdings by foreigners, sparking concerns about national security and economic stability.
The Cabinet has acknowledged the ombudsman’s findings and recommendations, with a source from Government House revealing that a recent Cabinet meeting confirmed the prevalence of foreigners holding or possessing significant amounts of land and property for commercial purposes through these opaque arrangements. Continued …
A flurry of undersea earthquakes off Thailand’s southern coast has put experts on high alert and locals are being urged to brush up on their evacuation plans, just in case. Over 15 moderate tremors have rocked the Andaman Sea in the past few days, sparking fears of an underwater volcanic eruption — and a possible tsunami.
The string of quakes measuring between magnitude 3 and 5 were all centered offshore in a geologically restless zone. The cause of the quakes is suspected to be a submerged volcano, dormant for now but potentially dangerous if it stirs. Continued …
Thai Finance Minister Dismisses US Tariff Claims Amid Ongoing Talks
Thailand’s Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has refuted widespread reports claiming that the United States has imposed an 18% import tax on Thai goods. He clarified yesterday that the figure is merely an “estimation” used by the Bank of Thailand and economists for modeling potential economic impacts, stressing that negotiations between the two nations are still very much in progress.
The minister explained that discussions with the U.S. have encompassed four or five key areas, including tariff rates, non-tariff trade barriers, increasing U.S. imports, addressing fraudulent claims of origin for goods, and tackling transhipment issues. Continued …
Thai growth projection cut to 1.7%
The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) has downgraded its 2025 gross domestic product (GDP) growth projection for Thailand to 1.7% from 3%. The adjustment reflects escalating risks including U.S. tariffs, the Israel-Iran conflict, the border tensions with Cambodia, and government instability.
Other factors influencing the outlook include a sluggish recovery in the industrial sector, with capacity utilization at only 65%, a fourth consecutive quarter of decline in private sector investment, and potential decreases in exports and tourism in the second half of the year. Continued …
Political turmoil sparks economic fears
Concerns are mounting within Thailand’s business sector over growing political instability, amid speculation that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra may either resign or dissolve parliament following calls for independent bodies to investigate her conduct in connection with a leaked audio clip involving Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen.
This uncertainty is casting a shadow over the national economy, with analysts and private sector representatives warning of potential delays to the 2026 fiscal budget and disruption to flagship policies. Continued …
Thailand’s Role in ASEAN Supply Chains
As global supply chains continue to restructure due to the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and rising production costs in China, Thailand has emerged as a strategic node in ASEAN’s push for supply chain resilience. Its geographic location, developed infrastructure, and business-friendly policies make Thailand an ideal hub for reshoring, nearshoring, and regional diversification.
In 2024, foreign direct investment (FDI) into Thailand surged to 1.13 trillion baht (US$33 billion), a 35% increase from 2023, underscoring investor confidence in the country’s strategic trajectory. Continued …
Growth of eateries outpaces tourism
The Bank of Thailand has observed a glut of restaurants relative to the slower growth in foreign tourist arrivals, with the impact affecting mainly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Between 2019 and 2024, the total number of restaurants grew at an average annual rate of 106%, significantly outpacing 12% annual growth in both domestic and foreign tourist arrivals, according to the central bank. Continued …
Cannabis dreams go up in smoke
In the fertile plains of Nakhon Ratchasima, Somkiat Nitiketkosol tends to his cannabis farm, Suan Fah Yim, with a heavy heart. For years, small- and medium-sized cannabis growers like him have weathered fierce competition, plunging prices, and shifting government policies.
Now, with the Ministry of Public Health’s recent order to tighten cannabis regulations – reverting it to a controlled substance to be used strictly under medical prescription, with the ultimate goal of relisting cannabis as a narcotic within 45 days – many farms are facing closure. Continued …
Thai tourism businesses unfazed by casino bill delay
The government’s decision to put its entertainment complex bill on the back burner should not affect Thailand’s tourism industry, as the country has welcomed plenty of tourists without this type of attraction in the past, according to the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA).
First reading of the controversial bill, which calls for legalized casino gambling, was originally scheduled for next week when the House of Representatives reconvenes. But it was postponed as the government said it needed to gather more public opinion. Continued …
Bangkok Airways to suspend Bangkok–Lampang route
Bangkok Airways announced on Wednesday that it will suspend flights between Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport) and Lampang from Oct. 26 onward. Additionally, the route between Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and Mae Hong Son (via Lampang) will also be temporarily suspended from July 1.
This route has long been an important travel option for both the residents of Lampang and tourists. Despite facing several challenges in recent times, the airline has consistently served the Lampang community. Continued …
Why your old mobile phone may be polluting Thailand
At an industrial site in eastern Thailand, Thitipas Choddaechachainun sifts through mounds of scrap metal, circuit boards, and old computer keyboards in a cavernous warehouse beside a busy highway.
Like forensic scientists, she and her team of inspectors from Thailand’s industry ministry take samples of the waste and carefully bag it up to be taken away for analysis. “A lot of this is clearly electronic waste and the company that owns this site doesn’t have a licence to process it,” she concludes. “This is a growing problem in Thailand.” Continued …
Bangchak unit invests in sustainable data centers
More energy firms are venturing into the data center business, with BCPG Plc, the power generation arm of energy conglomerate Bangchak Corp., becoming the latest to co-invest in sustainable data center development.
BCPG is cooperating with state enterprise National Telecom (NT) to push ahead with the construction of a data center powered by clean energy. NT specializes in providing telecom and digital technology services for customers, while BCPG is good at producing and supplying electricity from solar and wind farms, as well as hydropower dams. Continued …
Russian Journalist Kidnapped and Ransomed by Russians in Pattaya – Continued …
Irish Fugitive Arrested in Krabi After 415 Days of Overstay – Continued …
Iran and Trump: Much ado about nothing much
I don’t get a lot of face-time with Donald Trump, but his rant on Tuesday in front of the chopper that was to take him to the airport and on to the NATO summit in Brussels was the first time I heard him say “f***” in front of live microphones – and it was clearly about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Continued …
Jeff Bezos’s Wedding Divides Venice and Highlights Wealth Inequality
A star-studded guest list arrived in Venice yesterday, descending on the lagoon city for the weekend wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez, which has galvanized an assortment of protesters. The wedding has divided Venice, with some activists protesting it as an exploitation of the city by the billionaire Bezos while ordinary residents suffer from overtourism, high housing costs, and the constant threat of climate-induced flooding. Continued …
Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)
Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.
For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at 9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
A controlled forest-burning operation has begun in Cha Am district to reduce wildfire risk and airborne dust, with authorities saying the initiative is aimed at preventing severe forest fires and limiting PM2.5 pollution during the dry season.
Authorities in Bangkok plan to delay enforcement of a regulation requiring pet dogs and cats to be fitted with microchips for a year in order to help all sides prepare and ensure broader adoption.
Thailand’s economy is bracing for its weakest expansion in 30 years, with GDP growth projected at less than 2% in 2026, attributed to sluggish exports, high household debt, and declining competitiveness in global markets, warns the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB).
The leadership of Thailand’s three largest commercial banks have issued a unified warning for 2026, describing the upcoming financial year as a period of “all-around exhaustion.”
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Average headline inflation is expected to rise slightly in 2026, driven by increasing prices of agricultural products and the recovery of the tourism sector, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO).
Leading economists have issued a stark warning over the proliferation of short-term populist campaign pledges, asserting that these policies are laying a “fiscal trap” that threatens Thailand’s long-term economic sovereignty and its international credit standing.
Thailand’s property market is facing another major test in 2026, after new figures from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) of the Government Housing Bank pointed to a clear slowdown in foreign demand in 2025 — long viewed as a key engine of the condominium market.
The outlook for the restaurant industry in 2026 appears grim as there are no new positive factors. A Thai Michelin-starred chef urged restaurant operators to think carefully about business expansion.
Health and wellness are increasingly viewed as a new form of luxury, driving lifestyle changes and fueling rapid growth across global well-being industries this year. Dr. Tanupol Virunhagarun, chief executive of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, said the wellness trend will continue expanding over the next five years worldwide.
Tourism has surged beyond pre-pandemic levels, placing pressure on popular cities, islands, and natural landmarks. By charging tourists, governments aim to generate dedicated funding to manage crowds, upgrade infrastructure, and preserve destinations, while allowing tourism to continue.
How Thai-Born Hotel Brands Learned to Host the World
Southeast Asia is accelerating its energy transition with growing momentum from both policy and capital. Stronger regulatory support and expanding clean-energy financing are creating a more predictable investment environment, enabling governments and developers to move from planning to delivery.
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