Run Khan Do event/Pone Kingphet Park renovation/Royal Hua Hin Course hosts Thai LPGA/Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan/Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased/EC announces 71% voter turnout/Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home/AI-Driven Traffic Lights in Bangkok/Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise/Keep their hair in check/Bomb on husband’s mistress’ car- ECONOMY: Thailand faces high baht volatility/SCB predicts gradual baht decline/Thailand’s 2026 growth outlook improves/Manufacturing index rises/Thailand’s Role in Semiconductor Supply Chains/40,000-ton rice deal/Trump’s Tariff Setback Implications
- TOURISM: Is Thailand becoming rude and expensive?/Dual pricing, who pays the price?/Thailand’s Fast-Growing Wellness Market/Tomorrowland Thailand expected to generate 5.5 billion/Etihad Airways to debut Airbus A380 in Bangkok
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Salt making on the decline/The best time to visit Thailand/5 hidden gems in lesser-known cities/Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Run Khan Do event to run through July
The third RUN KHAN DO event will take place across Prachuap Khiri Khan from March to July 2026, with officials confirming that preparations are now under way to deliver a larger and more varied program this year. On Wednesday, Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, chaired a planning meeting at the Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports to review progress and coordinate arrangements for RUN KHAN DO 2026.
Officials confirmed that a total of 12 events will be organized across all eight districts of the province, running continuously from March to July. The program will include fun runs, health walks, trail running competitions, and a commemorative cycling event. Continued …
Pone Kingphet Park renovation behind Songkran schedule
The Pone Kingphet Park renovation is being accelerated by Hua Hin City Municipality to ensure the venue is ready for Songkran 2026.
Yesterday, Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul led municipal executives, councillors, and relevant officials to inspect progress at the park, which is undergoing a major redevelopment. He acknowledged that construction has fallen behind the original schedule and instructed the contractor to increase manpower and machinery to speed up the remaining works. Continued …
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course hosts first Thai LPGA event of year
The ThaiLPGA Tour 2026 season will offer total prize money of 18 million baht, with the opening events scheduled for March at Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, organizers said.
The Women’s Professional Golf Association of Thailand said the season will begin with ThaiLPGA Tour Q School on March 18-19 at Royal Hua Hin, followed by the Singha-SAT Ladies Open from March 20-22. The opening tournament will offer 1.5 million baht in prize money. Continued …
Meth arrest in Prauchap Khiri Khan
A total of 54,000 methamphetamine pills were seized in Mueang district following a coordinated operation by police and provincial officials, according to authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
At a press conference held at the Border Patrol Police Subdivision 14 in Huai Sai subdistrict Wednesday, Preeda Sukjai, deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, outlined details of the arrest of two male suspects and the seizure of the drugs. Continued …
Road Accidents, Deaths Decreased in 2025
Road accidents in Thailand fell in 2025, according to new data released yesterday at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. Police Gen. Samran Nuanma, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police and director of the Traffic Management Center, said statistics show a decline in crashes, fatalities, and injuries. However, speeding remains the leading cause of accidents nationwide.
PRS figures for 2025 recorded 20,967 road accidents, a decrease of more than 11% from the previous year. Fatalities totaled 11,779, down more than 15%, while injuries fell by over 20% to 12,182 cases. Police said the reductions reflect proactive enforcement efforts by traffic officers nationwide. Continued …
EC announces 71% voter turnout in 2026 election, over 35 million valid votes
The Election Commission (EC) has announced the final voter turnout for the 2026 general election, with 37.8 million voters (71.4%) participating on Feb.8. Continued …
Masked Gang Raid Brit’s Pattaya Home, Flee With B2 Million
Three hooded men armed with knives stormed a home in the Pattaya area, late yesterday, stealing a safe containing more than 2 million baht in cash from a British resident before fleeing in a black pickup truck.
The victims, a 32-year-old British national and his 34-year-old Thai partner, were left shaken but unharmed. Police have launched a manhunt following the robbery at Chokchai Village 9, off Soi Khao Noi. Continued …
AI-Driven Traffic Lights Launched in Bangkok
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has started upgrading traffic signals at various intersections, incorporating an adaptive system using CCTV and AI technology to adjust in real time. This initiative aims to transition from fixed-timing to automated adaptive control, improving convenience and reducing time on the roads.
The BMA manages 746 intersections, with 578 having traffic lights. Currently, 433 of these use fixed signals, 71 have adaptive loop detectors, and 74 have been updated to the new adaptive real-time CCTV system. Fixed-time signals often cause inefficiencies, like green lights with no traffic or unnecessary red light waits. Continued …
Prices of new Samsung Galaxy to rise by up to 20% in Thailand
Rising memory component costs have pushed up launch prices for Samsung’s latest flagship lineup, with several models in the new Galaxy S26 series debuting up to 20% higher than their Galaxy S25 predecessors in Thailand.
Samsung Electronics this week unveiled the Galaxy S26 series, positioning proactive, on-device artificial intelligence (AI) as the core differentiator in the premium smartphone segment. Continued …
BTS asks passengers to keep their hair in check
The operator of the BTS Skytrain has called on passengers to refrain from flicking or tossing their hair while traveling during peak hours, warning that loose locks could accidentally strike fellow commuters in the face, shoulders, eyes, or mouth.
Passengers with long hair are urged to hold their tresses in place when turning their heads, walking past others, or boarding and alighting from trains. Continued …
Thai wife arrested for planting bomb on husband’s mistress’ car
A Thai woman attached explosive devices to the car of her husband’s mistress in an attempted killing, but the devices failed to fully detonate, causing only minor damage to the vehicle. The victim told police an explosive device fell from her car and exploded on the road, causing a loud noise and sparks.
Police went to the scene with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team to examine the evidence. Officers said the device was a homemade improvised explosive device (IED) contained in four glass bottles, with only one bottle exploding. Continued …
Thailand faces high baht volatility from internal and external risks
This year continues to be a period of high uncertainty for Thai businesses, driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic policies, interest rate directions, and the transition to new technologies. Meanwhile, domestic factors such as a strong Thai baht, high household debt, weak demand, and a fragile economic structure are further intensifying the pressure on the business sector.
Patrick Poulia, deputy general manager and head of the financial markets function at Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), stated that the overall economy and financial markets in 2026 face multidimensional challenges. Continued …
SCB predicts gradual baht decline
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) expects the baht to gradually weaken against the US dollar, reaching 33 baht per dollar in the fourth quarter of this year, driven by a combination of domestic and external factors.
SCB forecasts the baht to ease to 31.50 per dollar in the first quarter, 31.70 in the second quarter, 32 in the third quarter, and 33 in the fourth quarter. Continued …
Thailand’s 2026 growth outlook improves to 2.1%, despite structural headwinds
TRIS Rating has raised its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 2.1% from 1.7%, following stronger-than-expected momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, when the economy expanded 2.4%. Despite the upward revision, growth is still projected to moderate from last year, reflecting persistent structural constraints.
Private consumption remains under pressure from fragile consumer confidence and elevated household debt. The Consumer Confidence Index fell to 51.9 in December 2025 from 53.2 in November, following the dissolution of parliament. Meanwhile, household debt stood at 86.8% of GDP in the second quarter of 2025 — the highest level among ASEAN peers — continuing to weigh on spending. Continued …
Thai manufacturing index rises
Factory activity in Thailand picked up in January, driven by heightened political activity during the election campaign and strong demand in the automotive sector, according to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).
The Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) rose 1.4% year-on-year to 101.58 points, compared with from 95.02 in December, said Supakit Boonsiri, the director-general of the office. He said campaign-related spending lifted sales of posters, food, paper, printing materials, and beverages.The index also benefited from rising sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), he said. Continued …
Thailand’s Emerging Role in Global Semiconductor Supply Chains
The global semiconductor industry is entering an increasingly strategic phase, driven by accelerated investments in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and electric vehicles (EV).
Electronic chips are no longer merely key components of conventional electronic devices; they have become essential infrastructure of the modern economy, supporting a wide range of applications — from industrial systems and automation to security technologies. Continued …
Thai and Chinese governments reach 40,000-ton rice deal
Suphajee Suthumpun, minister of Commerce, has revealed that the Thai government and the government of the People’s Republic of China have reached a government-to-government rice-trading agreement for a volume of 40,000 tons.
The delivery is scheduled to gradually begin from February 2026 onward. This marks another significant step reflecting the strong relationship and long-standing rice trade cooperation between the two countries. Continued …
Trump’s Tariff Setback: Implications for China and Global Trade
US trading partners, including China and the EU, are responding to Trump’s recent tariff setbacks and warnings of potential new tariffs. They are likely adopting cautious or defensive strategies in light of these developments, reflecting concerns over economic stability and trade relations. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between the US and its trade partners over tariffs and trade policies.
The setback of Donald Trump’s tariffs marks a significant turning point in global trade dynamics. During his administration, tariffs were used as a tool to pressure China into changing trade practices, but these measures led to increased costs and tensions. The recent move to roll back or ease some tariffs suggests a shift toward more cooperative trade relations, which could benefit both China and the global economy. Continued …
Is Thailand becoming rude and expensive for foreign visitors?
Over the past few weeks, local news headlines have been dominated by complaints from some foreign tourists claiming that Thailand is becoming too expensive, while some Thais are being perceived as unfriendly — or even rude — to visitors.
If you come from a wealthy country like those in northern Europe, the US, Japan, Singapore, or even South Korea, where the average wage is several times higher than wages here, you should be complaining. Yes, things are probably somewhat cheaper in Ho Chi Minh City or Kathmandu than in Bangkok, but each destination has its own unique charm and appeal. Continued …
Dual pricing, who pays the price?
Dual-pricing, where foreigners pay more to enter certain places than local visitors, is common at major destinations in Thailand. When the double standard system blurs into confusion and exploitation, it could damage the country’s tourism.
This episode of ‘Why Bangkok: Dual Pricing, Who Pays The Price?’ explores the complexity of the double pricing system to find common ground between charging a nominal fee and exploiting the system to deliberately charge a higher price. Video …
Global Wellness Institute Releases New Data on Thailand’s Fast-Growing $42.7 Billion Wellness Market
Thailand’s wellness market expanded from $38.8 billion in 2023 to $42.7 billion in 2024. According to the latest Global Wellness Economy: Country Ranking Report by GWI, Thailand ranked #7 among the world’s top 25 wellness markets for growth between 2023 and 2024, achieving an impressive 10.1% increase.
In 2024, Thailand maintained its position as the world’s 24th largest wellness economy, ranking 9th in the Asia-Pacific region. The country is ranked 15th globally for wellness tourism, where spending surged by 36.4% between 2023 and 2024 — one of the fastest growth rates worldwide — bringing the market to $14 billion. Continued …
Tomorrowland Thailand expected to generate 5.5 billion baht in first year
Tomorrowland Thailand, the iconic electronic music festival, will debut in Pattaya this December. The event, organized by TAT, WE Are One World, and the Belgian Embassy, is expected to generate significant economic value, with over 5.5 billion baht projected in its first year alone, and 30 billion baht over the next five years.
The event will take place Dec. 11-13 at Wisdom Valley, in Chonburi, bringing a new international festival experience to Thailand. The event will feature six major stages, including the legendary Mainstage, and exclusive first-time showcases in Asia, including the CORE and Freedom stages. Continued …
Etihad Airways to debut Airbus A380 to Bangkok in October
Etihad Airways has announced it will bring its flagship Airbus A380 to Bangkok for the first time this October, increasing capacity on one of its most popular leisure routes. The airline will join four other carriers serving the destination with the superjumbo.
The airline’s A380 aircraft will operate on it’s evening daily service between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Bangkok (BKK). In its announcement, Etihad states that the A380’s launch, timed for the peak winter travel season, will support strong air travel demand between Thailand, the Middle East, and Europe. Continued …
Thailand’s salt making on the decline
The declining number of traditional salt-making activities in the region can be blamed on several factors, chief of which is the decreasing number of farmers who are interested in continuing the industry.
Many of them have left the traditional salt-making business and shifted to other trades and occupations, including farming, cattle-raising, and gardening, while a significant number have gone over to the tourism sector. Continued …
The best time to visit Thailand depends on where you go
Thailand is every wanderer’s dream: temples rising into brilliant blue skies, tuk-tuks zipping past street carts sizzling with spice, and tropical beaches that seem to glow at sunset. But because the kingdom stretches from misty northern hills to two distinct coastal systems, deciding when to go is almost as important as where you go.
The best time to visit Thailand depends on your destination, your travel style, and what weather you’re hoping to experience during your trip. Thailand’s climate is broadly divided into three main seasons: cool and dry, hot and dry, and the wet or monsoon season. Continued …
5 hidden gems in lesser-known cities in Thailand
Secondary cities — less-visited provinces that are not major tourist hotspots and typically attract fewer than four million visitors a year — are gaining popularity among Thai and foreign travelers looking to avoid crowds and seek new experiences.
The Kasikorn Research Center forecasts that the share of Thai domestic trips to secondary cities will edge up to 41.4% in 2025, from 41.3% in the first five months of the year, marking a sharp 32.3% rise from the same period in 2019 (pre-Covid-19). Continued …
A Short-Stay Guide to Koh Tao — Thailand’s Tiny Gulf Escape
When a destination is as affordable as it is beautiful, it will always make a compelling case for a relaxing holiday. For many people, that means heading to Thailand, specifically the Gulf of Thailand, where well-trodden islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan offer the ideal combination of stunning beaches, great dining, and luxury stays. Yet, it pays to keep your expectations in check.
In 2023, Koh Samui received 3.54 million travelers — a challenge for most destinations, let alone an island that measures just 25 kilometers from point to point. It’s a similar story on Koh Phangan, with an estimated four million annual visitors. Of course, serene pockets still exist, but finding them requires more than a little careful consideration. Continued …
Australian tourist dies from beating in Phuket, Swedish suspect detained
A 29-year-old Swedish man of Turkish descent was arrested by Phuket police yesterday over the assault and death of a 58-year-old Australian tourist in Patong on Wednesday. Alan Roger Joliffe was knocked to the ground by a blow from the suspect at about 5 pm. He died at 10.23 pm despite medical efforts, prompting a police investigation and manhunt. Continued …
- Immigration Police Arrest Two on Interpol Red Notices – Continued …
- Russian Man Arrested in Phangan Drug Bust – Continued …
- Chinese Man Held at Don Mueang Over VAT Fraud – Continued …
- CCTV Catches Foreign Woman Calmly Stealing Suitcase in Phuket – Continued …
- Tourist Leaves After Claiming Theft, Rejects CCTV Review – Continued …
US AI boom faces electric shock
Technology giants, including Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta, have in recent months announced plans to spend over US$600 billion on AI in 2026 alone. The investment wave has already fueled unease among some investors about the profitability of this strategy. They have reason to be worried, as the ambitious US AI expansion plans are likely to be hobbled by severe power-infrastructure bottlenecks, including turbine shortages, slow grid expansion, and regulatory red tape. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
A 20-year-old Myanmar national has died following a violent assault at Hua Hin fishing pier, with police arresting three teenage suspects within hours of the incident. The victim succumbed to severe injuries at Hua Hin Hospital after being attacked late on New Year’s Eve, prompting a swift investigation by local authorities.
In a situation where the Thai economy faces challenges on all sides, especially the high level of household debt, reaching 90% of GDP, and the slowdown in nationwide residential property transfers, projected to fall by 6% in 2026, the Thai real estate market is inevitably dependent on foreign investment.
Thailand’s exports in 2026 are expected to face volatility and challenges due to a global economic slowdown that is dampening demand in key trading nations. High household debt will curb purchasing power, while a sluggish recovery in the global labor market, geopolitical uncertainties, and rising trade protectionism will continue to influence this sector, noted the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC).
Phuket’s tourism industry is calling on the government to urgently resolve what it describes as a deepening infrastructure crisis, warning that the island’s rapid tourism growth is outstripping its ability to cope.
Direct international flights between Singapore and Chiang Rai have officially begun, marking the first such service since the Covid-19 pandemic and strengthening air connectivity to northern Thailand.
At least nine people have died and more than 200 ?have been hospitalized in the central Indian city of Indore after a diarrhea outbreak that officials said was linked to contaminated drinking water, according to a lawmaker and local ?health authorities. 
China’s BYD has surpassed Tesla to become the world’s largest seller of electric vehicles (EVs) in annual sales. This marks the first time BYD has outpaced its American competitor, with BYD’s sales increasing by nearly 28% to over 2.25 million vehicles in 2025. Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales dropped by almost 9% to 1.64 million vehicles globally. 
Thailand puts on stunning fireworks show in Bangkok
The microplastics derived from bottles represent an invisible risk to human health, according to a recent study. The most alarming data from the analysis reveals that those who consume bottled water daily can incorporate up to 90,000 plastic particles more per year than those who drink from the tap.
Jakarta ranked as the world’s largest city with 41.9 million inhabitants followed by Dhaka, while Tokyo slipped to third, a recent United Nations (UN) report shows.
The Nakhon Pathom–Cha-am Motorway project is among 11 megaprojects, valued at over Bt359.8 billion, that Thailand’s Transport Ministry has prepared for Cabinet approval in 2026.
Since the last general election in May 2023, Thailand has been in the throes of political turbulence. Two prime ministers have served short terms in office while the third PM would have had barely four months in office. The country is now preparing for its next general election, scheduled for Feb. 8.
Pongnakorn Pochakorn, assistant spokesperson for the Finance Ministry, said preliminary figures showed spending under the Khon La Khreung Plus scheme reached 84.19 billion baht before it ended on Dec. 31. A total of 19.76 million people used the scheme.
The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has released its 2025 Thailand Water Quality Situation Report, revealing positive trends. Most coastal and surface water resources nationwide remain in “fair to good” condition.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s decision to dissolve the House adds challenges to the state push for a transition to clean energy in 2026.
Dozens were killed and over 100 injured when a fire ripped through a crowded bar in the luxury Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana early Thursday, as young revellers rang in the New Year. Horrified bystanders described “panic” as people tried to break the windows of the bar to escape, and others, covered in burns, poured into the street. 
Crackdown on Drink Driving
‘Food Security’ Operation to address global population growth of 1 billion
