Dream House for Sale/12 Family-Friendly Things To Do/Dr. Jason Culp at Chiva-Som/Pranburi Dam pipelines repaired/PKK 2025 tourism marketing strategy/Celebration at Hua Hin Railway/Vintage car parade/Hua Hin Jazzical Festival/Hornbill nesting efforts/Golden Place Hua Hin reopens/Leopard at Kaeng Krachan Park/300 monkeys to be sterilized/Thailand prepares for chill/Top 7 health issues/Do foreigners get free healthcare?/Surat Thani’s agri-sector suffering/Wild Elephants Invade Village/Alarming Human Trafficking/Myanmar babies not eligible/F1 race planned for Bangkok/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Ambitious tax reform plan/State revenue grows 2.1%/2%-3% export growth/Industrial sentiment advances/Toyota ‘to expand hybrid output’/Coca-Cola Thailand optimistic/TOURISM: Illegal Foreign Tour Guides/Soft power shines/Pattaya Beach Swarms with Tourists/Russian Tourist Dies/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Ditch Phuket’s crowds/Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair/CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar Rooftop Power Purchase/EGCO Acquires 11 Solar Projects/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
Your dream house in Hua Hin
This exceptional property offers 4 double bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, providing comfort for a large family and guests alike. Each bedroom opens directly to the lush garden and 36 m² pool, creating a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Designed for social gatherings, the open-plan kitchen and living area allow for cooking, dining, and relaxation together in a fully equipped, modern setting. The villa is fully furnished both indoors and out, accommodating up to 12 people comfortably, with six air conditioning units for complete climate control and all essentials for a relaxed lifestyle.
A unique property featuring 4 double bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and a 36 m² pool in Villa Vista, south of Hua Hin. Price on request.
8/201 Soi 126, Mooban Khao Tao, T.Nong Kae, Hua Hin; Tel +66 (0)81 550 1058; Web.
12 Family-Friendly Things To Do, Sights To See Around Hua Hin
Planning a less trodden adventure near Bangkok and eager to try out the spots closer to Hua Hin and Cha Am? We have a list of family-friendly places to consider – for wilder adventures, to local markets, national parks and other lovely spots others might have missed.
You can opt to stay at Cha Am, Hua Hin or Pranburi for a quieter experience out of the city. To get to the spots, renting a vehicle or hiring a local driver would be the efficient options. Continued …
An inerview with Dr. Jason Culp at Chiva-Som
“I think epigenetic testing will go mainstream and doctors will be able to show people if they’re predisposed to an illness, or what their lifestyle choices are doing to their bodies.”
Chiva-Som was an early adopter of epigenetic testing. What’s this science about?
Epigenetic testing measures DNA methylation patterns to find out an individual’s biological age versus their chronological age, as well as the age of their immune system and how quickly their telomeres are shortening, which is another marker of age. It can also identify some predispositions to diabetes and heart disease. Continued …
Pranburi Dam water pipelines repaired, water supply resumes
PKK 2025 tourism marketing strategy unveiled
113-year celebration at Hua Hin Railway Station Dec 20-21
Phetchaburi-Hua Hin vintage car parade Dec 20-22
Hua Hin Jazzical Festival at Bluport Saturday
Hornbill nesting efforts successful at Kaeng Krachan
Golden Place Hua Hin reopens on Phetkasem Road
Video of leopard at Kaeng Krachan Park
300 monkeys to be sterilized in Prachuap
Thailand prepares for chill, temperature drop and strong winds
Thailand is bracing for a cold snap, as a mass of cool air spreads across the country, bringing a drop in temperatures and strong winds. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts a temperature decrease of 1 to 3 degrees Celsius, with frost expected in some mountainous areas.
The latest weather forecast from the TMD reveals that a moderate high-pressure system from China has reached Thailand’s northeastern region. This system is expected to extend further, impacting the entire upper part of the country. Continued …
ThaiHealth reveals top 7 health issues in Thailand for 2025
State-funded health agency ThaiHealth Promotion Foundation on Tuesday outlined seven health-related issues that public and government agencies must look out for in 2025.
These issues could affect public health, the Thai economy and society on a large scale, ThaiHealth manager Dr Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon said during the ThaiHealth Watch 2025 event held at the foundation’s headquarters in Bangkok. Continued …
Do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?
Thailand’s healthcare system is well-regarded across Southeast Asia, with options ranging from public hospitals to world-class private facilities. But when it comes to foreign residents or tourists, healthcare access isn’t as straightforward.
So, do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand? Yes, you do get access to some healthcare for free only if you have a work permit and contribute to the Social Security scheme. Continued …
Surat Thani’s agri-sector suffering significant losses due to floods
Farmers in Surat Thani province are experiencing major losses due to this year’s flooding. Oil palm and rubber plantations, as well as shrimp farms in Kanchanadit district, have been swamped. Hundreds of households are underwater.
For over a week, residents in the area have been forced to commute by boat or on high-clearance vehicles. A villager told a reporter that the floodwater is much higher than usual. Even though, in fact, the water is at a similar depth as in 2011, more people are suffering this year. Continued …
Villagers Alarmed as Wild Elephants Invade Village in Chiang Mai
Villagers in Khun Tuen Mai Village, Chiang Mai, are living in fear after two wild elephants were spotted wandering out of the Doi Mon Chong forest, part of the Omkoi National Reserved Forest, and entering their community.
Videos captured by locals show the two elephants walking through the area near Kho Pa Temple before heading deeper into the village. Frightened residents kept their distance, worried about the potential danger of being attacked. Continued …
Thailand Faces Pressure Over Alarming Human Trafficking Route
The escalating human trafficking crisis in Thailand has drawn the attention of 14 nations. With their citizens reportedly ensnared by fraudulent scam operations just over the border in Myanmar, concerns intensify over Thailand being used as a passageway into what some are describing as “hell on earth”.
At the center of this surge are online scam and human-trafficking networks reportedly operating right across the Moei River from Mae Sot in Tak province. Continued …
Myanmar babies in Thai hospitals not eligible for free healthcare
Babies born to Myanmar parents in Thailand’s border hospitals are not eligible for free healthcare benefits like Thai nationals, despite receiving a 13-digit identification number.
The National Health Security Office (NHSO) clarified this policy yesterday, highlighting that these ID cards specifically categorize the newborns as migrants born in Thailand, not as Thai citizens. Continued …
Thailand’s first F1 race planned for Bangkok’s Chatuchak
The Thai government is continuing the Formula One (F1) project initiated by former Prime Minister (PM) Srettha Thavisin, with plans to hold Thailand’s first F1 race in the Chatuchak neighborhood of Bangkok.
F1 enthusiasts were given hope after former PM Srettha discussed the project with the race organizers during his visit to France in March this year. The former PM pledged to make F1 fans’ dreams a reality by 2028, with the event initially expected to take place near U-Tapao Airport in the eastern province of Rayong. Continued …
- Chinese National Arrested for Smuggling 120kg of Heroin Hidden in Car Batteries – Continued …
- Tourists Ignore Police in Patong: Drag Locked Motorbike Through Streets – Continued …
- Polish man sentenced for trafficking £100k of cannabis into UK – Continued …
- Five arrested in crackdown on Japanese call center gang in Chonburi – Continued …
- Bangkok cops snip illegal Myanmar barbers – Continued …
Thailand’s finance minister unveils ambitious tax reform plan for 2025
Thailand Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has unveiled an ambitious tax reform plan set to take effect in 2025. The reform aims to simplify the country’s tax system, enhance transparency, and boost revenue collection to support public infrastructure projects and social welfare programs.
Key elements of the plan include reducing loopholes, introducing progressive tax brackets, and leveraging digital technologies to improve compliance. Continued …
State revenue grows 2.1% in first months of fiscal year
The Revenue Department reported its revenue collection in the first two months of fiscal 2025 grew 2.1% year-on-year, attributed to efforts to bring individuals outside the tax system into compliance and stricter enforcement of tax evasion measures.
According to Director-general Pinsai Suraswadi, the department’s revenue collection in October tallied 146 billion baht, up 4.93 billion baht, or 3.5% year-on-year. The amount surpassed the target by 2.33 billion baht, or 1.6%. Continued …
Ministry aims for 2%-3% export growth next year
The Commerce Ministry has set an export growth target of 2%-3% for 2025, while export growth this year is expected to reach 5% thanks to the electronics, agricultural product and food sectors.
At a recent meeting on export promotion and goals for next year, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said the ministry set the export growth target at 2%-3% for 2025, estimated to be worth US$305-308 billion in receipts. Continued …
Industrial sentiment advances in November
The Thai Industries Sentiment Index (TISI) rose to 91.1 points in November based on higher goods purchase orders, driven by year-end celebrations and countries bracing for the new U.S. trade policy, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
The index, which gauges business confidence among manufacturers, was 89.1 points in October. Not only did countries buy more products to prepare for the Christmas and New Year festivals, but exports of computers and their peripherals, as well as some machinery, also increased. Continued …
Toyota ‘to expand hybrid output in Thailand’
Toyota Motor Corp. Chairman Akio Toyoda has pledged to invest 55 billion baht in Thailand to expand production of hybrid cars, according to the government.
Industry Minister Akanat Promphan said the investment would involve retooling production lines to support production of both internal combustion engines and battery-powered electric motors for hybrid vehicles. Continued …
Coca-Cola Thailand optimistic on outlook for next year
Coca-Cola (Thailand) is optimistic on the prospects for Thailand’s beverage industry next year, partly supported by the recovery of tourism. Richa Singh, senior director of franchise operations, Coca-Cola Thailand and Laos, said the growth in the beverage market this year reflects a positive outlook for the industry in 2025.
From January to October 2024, the non-alcoholic drinks market in Thailand grew by 7.4% year-on-year, with the carbonated soft drinks segment recording 8.7% growth year-on-year. Continued …
Illegal Foreign Tour Guides Exploit Thai Visa Loopholes
Efforts to curb illegal tour guides in Thailand face new challenges, as visa-free stays and lax law enforcement allow foreigners to dominate the industry, warns the Professional Tourist Guides Association of Thailand.
Recent uproar on social media highlighted the issue when a Russian guide, unlawfully operating at the Similan Islands, used a Thai guide as a nominal front. The guide struggled to enforce national park regulations, as tourists indulged in risky behaviors like jumping from rocks into shallow water. Continued …
Soft power shines in 2024
As the Year of the Dragon comes to an end, Thailand is being decked out with lights and entertainment to create a joyful mood for all to enjoy countdown festivities. This year, soft power remains key in promoting tourism and culture, as tourists seek fresh ways to experience local life and distinct culinary journeys.
According to Euromonitor International’s report, Bangkok has risen to the top 10 cities in the world for international arrivals, with an unprecedented 32.4 million visits this year. The list includes cities such as Istanbul (23 million), London (21.7 million), Hong Kong (20.5 million) and Mecca (19.3 million). After surpassing pre-pandemic tourism numbers in 2023, the city’s foreign visitor traffic increased by an astounding 37% this year. Continued …
Pattaya Beach Swarms with Tourists; Locals Voice Concerns
As the high season unfolds, Pattaya Beach has become a hotspot for international tourists basking in the sun and enjoying Thailand’s vibrant offerings. However, alongside this seasonal influx, local residents have raised concerns over city infrastructure and management, sparking widespread discussions online about the city’s capacity to handle its burgeoning popularity.
Locals are particularly vocal about the city’s road conditions, which they describe as anything but smooth. One resident quipped that navigating the roads is akin to traversing the moon’s cratered landscape, highlighting the need for roadway repairs. Continued …
Russian Tourist Dies in Jet Ski Collision Off Phuket Coast
A Russian tourist lost his life following a jet ski collision off Karon Beach, Phuket, Tuesday evening. The victim was reported missing after the incident, which led to an extensive search operation.
The incident came to public attention when a fellow tourist sought assistance from a nearby beach shop. The shop owner promptly informed Karon Police Station. Although surveillance footage of the sea was made available, the moment of collision was not captured. Continued …
Ditch Phuket’s crowds for these beautiful Thailand islands instead
With miles of golden sand beaches stretching along its western flank; gorgeous temples, mosques and churches dotted around the villages and hillsides; internationally revered Michelin restaurants; a culturally rich and recently regenerated old town; a well-connected international airport; plus an armada of longtail boats anchored on the shores ready to drive you out on trips around the inlets, it’s easy to see why Phuket has maintained its spot as Thailand’s most popular island for decades.
Thailand buzz is currently oscillating across the world, partly thanks to the imminent arrival of the next installation of the hit HBO show The White Lotus – the third season wrapped filming in the country earlier this year. Due to be released in 2025, the show could easily bring higher tourist numbers than ever to the country. Continued …
Visitors step back in time at Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair
Ayutthaya is celebrating its 34th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a grand festival to showcase the wonders of Thailand’s old capital.
The Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair runs until Dec. 22, lighting up the city with a traditional market, cultural performances, beauty pageants, singing contests, historical light and sound shows, and fireworks. Continued …
WHAUP Signs Solar Rooftop Power Purchase Agreement with MAX Thailand
WHA Solar Co., a subsidiary of WHA Utilities & Power Public Co., WHAUP, has signed a power purchase agreement with MAX. (Thailand) Co., a leading manufacturer of pneumatic tools and automatic staplers from Japan.
The project will involve installing a 998-kilowatt solar rooftop power-generation system on a rooftop area exceeding 8,000 square meters within the WHA Eastern Seaboard Industrial Estate 1. The project is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2025. Continued …
EGCO Acquires 11 Solar Projects
Electricity Generating Public Co. has been selected as one of the applicants for additional electricity production under the regulations of the Office of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), regarding the procurement of electricity from renewable energy in the form of Feed-in Tariff (FiT) for 2022–2030.
This selection applies to ground-mounted solar power projects with no fuel costs. EGCO will undertake 11 projects with a total installation capacity of 448 megawatts. Continued …
Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27
Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):
Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm
Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm
Hua Hin train schedule
Van/minibus service at Market Village
Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:
- Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
- Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
- Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
- Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
- Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)
The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.
Emergency hotline numbers:
- Emergency hotline – 191
- Emergency medical services – 1554
- Water accident – 1196
- Motorway hotline – 1586
- Emergency medical – 1669
- Highway police – 1193
- Tourist police – 1155
- Bus ticket – 1490
- Department of Highways – 1586
Majority doubt government’s economic policies, but digital wallet earns praise
Four major tourism segments in focus as TAT focuses on niche markets
