• Four lanes for soi 102?/Hua Hin Profile/Pranburi’s Villa Maroc new manager/Nene Royal to voice Disney’s Hexed in Thailand/Nene Royal to sing at IMF–World Bank reception/UK Banker who exposed Epstein links found dead/No signs of plague in Thailand/Heavy rain forecast across Thailand/Bangkok could be increasingly inundated/Manufacturers face flood hit/Eastern flooding persists/Hospitals told to stock medicines, food/Bangkok plans flood defenses
• ECONOMY: Thai inflation rises 2.82%/World Bank ups Thai GDP outlook/Foreign nominee businesses targeted beyond islands/Trump hopes to sign Thai tariff deal/Ministry to cut fuel subsidies/Tax perks to support MICE sector/Higher VAT urged/Eight EEC promotion zones/Starbucks expansion in Thailand/Vegetarian Festival spending/Infrastructure projects diversify Phuket’s economy
• TOURISM: Tourist tax goes ahead
• THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Introducing the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards/Trading Crowded Beaches For Soulful Culture
• CLIMATE THAILAND: Time to Rewrite Energy Rules/Southeast Asia could save US$45.4 billion with solar/Solar Project At Sats Thailand
• FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Four lanes for soi 102?

Hua Hin municipality is preparing to widen Hua Hin Soi 102 from two lanes to four and install new drainage along a 1.93-kilometer stretch. No construction start date has been announced.

The proposed work would run from the front of the municipality’s machinery center to Setthawit School. More than 28,000 square meters of road surface would be resurfaced with asphalt concrete. The existing two lanes, each 3.5 meters wide, would be replaced by four lanes, each 3 meters wide. Continued … 

Hua Hin Profile: Humanitarianism in action

Kim Warren is not just a pragmatic optimist; she is a force for change in some of the world’s most dangerous and complex places. She recalls a conversation with a neighbour at the age of 12 when she boldly voiced her intention to do something to help people in developing countries when she grew up, and his assertion to her that there were plenty of people in her native England who needed her help, so she didn’t need to look so far afield.

Kim knew instinctively that her future lay outside her country, and this has indeed been the case. An adventurous spirit and a childhood free from restriction equipped Kim well for leaving England as a young woman and calling countries all around the world her home, as she pursued her career in humanitarian mine action. Continued … 

Pranburi’s Villa Maroc names new manager

Sirithip Thipthammakhun has been named as the new hotel manager of Villa Maroc Pranburi. Prior to joining Villa Maroc Pranburi, she served as general manager of Kundala Beach Resort Hua Hin from August 2023, overseeing overall hotel operations, strategic planning, business development, financial performance and team leadership.

She previously served as hotel operations manager at The Tree Riverside Kaeng Krachan, managing daily operations, service standards, guest satisfaction, and departmental performance. She also spent more than eight years at Rest Detail Hotel Hua Hin, progressing through senior roles in food and beverage, event and catering, and wedding and event sales, gaining extensive experience in hotel operations, events and business development. – thaipr.net

Nene Royal to voice Disney’s Hexed in Thailand

Thai rocker Nene Royal, winner of America’s Got Talent 2026, will make her acting debut as the Thai voice of Billie Doe in Disney’s animated fantasy Hexed.

The 16-year-old performer, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, will voice the film’s lead character when it opens in Thai cinemas on Nov. 26. The original English-language version of Billie is voiced by Hailee Steinfeld. Continued … 

Nene Royal to sing for over 400 guests at IMF–World Bank reception

Nene Royal is set to perform for more than 400 guests at Thailand’s official reception for the International Monetary Fund (IMF)–World Bank Group Annual Meetings 2026 on Wednesday evening (October 14, 2026). The event will take place at Government House’s Santi Maitri Building, Prime Minister’s Office spokesman Ekkaphop Phianphiset said.

Ekkaphop said the government aims to generate positive publicity and showcase Thai culture to dignitaries and senior guests from around the world, using the reception to demonstrate Thailand’s readiness as a host. Continued … 

UK Banker who exposed Epstein links found dead outside Bangkok

British banker and whistleblower Simon Andriesz, 57, was found dead in Khlong Luang, just outside Bangkok, on the morning of September 23. The local municipality recorded his cause of death as “asphyxiation from hanging”.

Andriesz, who had worked on Wall Street and had recently been living in Cornwall, was known for allegations concerning his former employer, BGC Group, and its former chief executive Howard Lutnick, now US Commerce Secretary under President Donald Trump. Continued … 

No signs of plague in Thailand

Thailand has not implemented any additional measures regarding the suspected plague in Russia, as Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat stated there are currently no plans for further action unless new developments emerge.

While the Department of Disease Control is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Ministry of Transport to watch for potential risks from travelers, officials consider the risk of transmission to Thailand to be low. Dr. Direk Khampaen, the deputy director-general of the Department of Disease Control, noted that special measures for international travel and flights are not necessary at this time. – Bangkok Post AI

Heavy rain forecast across Thailand as authorities monitor flood risks

Thailand’s Joint Information Coordination Center (JICC) has warned of widespread moderate to heavy rain from Oct. 10–13, urging people in flood-prone areas to closely monitor weather and water levels, particularly in the eastern provinces where the Bang Pakong River is at risk of overflowing its flood barriers.

Rain is expected to move from the central plains toward the western region and then southward. Heavier rainfall is forecast in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla and provinces along the Andaman coast. Continued … 

As the planet warms, cities like Bangkok could be increasingly inundated by deadly floods

In the humid tropics of Southeast Asia, afternoon thunderstorms roll through almost every day. Daytime heat causes towering, fluffy cumulonimbus clouds to form and swell before unleashing torrential rain on cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok. In these places, drainage systems are designed to cope with short, heavy downpours of rain. But the rains in Bangkok over the last week were far from typical.

September is the wettest month in Thailand’s bustling capital, with a monthly average of 344 millimeters usually spread across 18 rainy days. But just last week, roughly 300 millimeters of rain fell in Bangkok over 48 hours, overwhelming the city’s drainage systems. Continued … 

Manufacturers face flood hit of 2.13 billion baht

The recent floods in Thailand have caused an estimated economic loss of approximately 2.13 billion baht, primarily affecting the manufacturing sector. This economic impact includes damage to over 4,500 factories across the country, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) bearing much of the burden.

While the Ministry of Industry reported these industrial losses, the Finance Ministry has suggested the overall impact on the national economy may be less than 0.1% of GDP. Some analysts have expressed concern that the long-term economic impact could be more significant due to potential supply chain disruptions and the financial strain on affected households. – Bangkok Post AI

Eastern flooding persists

Flooding in eastern Thailand has persisted for seven consecutive days as of today. The stagnant water in the region has led to issues such as foul odors in certain areas.

In provinces like Prachin Buri and Chachoengsao, the ongoing situation involves difficult drainage and concerns over stagnant, potentially polluted water. While flood levels in some eastern provinces like Chon Buri and Rayong have been reported as declining, other areas such as Chachoengsao have seen deeper flooding. Additionally, officials are managing risks related to industrial runoff in Prachin Buri, where stagnant water has displayed a rainbow-colored sheen, suggesting contamination from factory waste. – Bangkok Post AI

Hospitals told to stock seven days of medicines

To prepare for upcoming heavy rainfall, the Ministry of Public Health has instructed hospitals to maintain a stockpile of medicines for at least seven days and food for up to 10 days.

These emergency protocols were issued to ensure healthcare facilities are ready for potential disruptions, such as those seen in recent surveys where some provinces faced significant flooding. In addition to these stockpiles, hospitals have been advised to prepare patient transfers in advance and select alternative routes for emergency access. Authorities are also working to improve communication and electricity systems to maintain operations during disasters. – Bangkok Post AI

Bangkok plans at least 100 billion baht in flood defenses

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has drawn up a five-to-seven-year flood-management program expected to require at least 100 billion baht, combining drainage maintenance with major canal, tunnel and water-retention projects to protect the capital’s role as Thailand’s economic center.

The BMA’s program follows flooding in Bangkok that has begun to ease but has caused widespread economic damage and disrupted daily life. Parts of eastern Bangkok remained inundated for at least a week as the drainage network struggled to move water arriving from multiple directions. Continued … 

Thai inflation rises 2.82% in September

Thailand’s headline consumer price index rose 2.82% in September from a year earlier, the Commerce Ministry said yesterday, as food and fuel prices increased.

September’s increase followed annual headline inflation of 2.53% in August. It also remained within the Bank of Thailand’s target range of 1% to 3%. The ministry now expects inflation to pick up further during the final quarter of 2026, with October’s annual rate expected to exceed that recorded in September. Continued … 

World Bank ups Thai GDP outlook

The World Bank has upgraded its GDP growth forecast for Thailand in 2026 to 2.3%, up from a previous estimate of 1.5%. This upward revision is primarily attributed to robust exports fueled by the artificial intelligence (AI) boom and a smaller-than-expected impact from energy shocks.

While the Bank of Thailand has maintained a projection of 2.3% for the year, other organizations have offered varying outlooks, such as the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, which upgraded its forecast to 2.5%, and the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking, which maintained a growth expectation between 1.6% and 2.0%. – Bangkok Post AI

Thailand targets foreign nominee businesses beyond the islands

Thailand has expanded a crackdown on suspected foreign nominee businesses from Koh Phangan into seven provinces, according to a media report, as concern grows over overseas investors, land deals and long-stay visitors on the country’s resort islands.

The campaign, known as the “Phangan model”, has examined thousands of businesses with potentially dubious Thai-foreign ownership structures. It has led to more than 110 arrests and dozens of warrants, Bloomberg reported. Continued … 

Trump hopes to sign Thai tariff deal during November Asia visit

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed officials to advance tariff negotiations after receiving a letter from US President Donald Trump expressing hope that an agreement with Thailand can be signed soon, government spokesman Ekkapop Pianpises said oyesterday.

Speaking at Government House after a Cabinet meeting, Ekkapop said Anutin had briefed ministers on the letter and assigned Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun to continue the Thailand–US tariff negotiations and prepare for signing. Continued … 

Energy Ministry to cut fuel subsidies as oil fund deficit exceeds 100 billion baht

Thailand’s Oil Fuel Fund has begun scaling back diesel support as its deficit has passed 100 billion baht, an Energy Ministry source said. The ministry is preparing a gradual withdrawal of subsidies to slow cash outflows while awaiting policy direction on further measures.

The Oil Fuel Fund Office’s Oct. 4 financial statement put the fund’s net deficit at 98.942 billion baht, comprising 58.429 billion baht in the oil account and 40.513 billion baht in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) account. The ministry source’s subsequent estimate above 100 billion baht reflects continued pressure from fuel and cooking-gas subsidies. Continued … 

Cabinet okays tax perks to support MICE sector

The Thai cabinet has approved tax measures for the meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) sector that allow businesses to claim a double tax deduction for expenses related to space rental and services for trade fairs and exhibitions. These incentives are intended to stimulate economic activity by attracting international events and increasing spending in related industries such as tourism, transport, and hospitality.

The government expects these tax measures to result in a tax revenue increase of approximately 897 million baht. Additionally, the Ministry of Finance estimates that approximately 3,800 businesses will claim these benefits, potentially generating 99.3 billion baht in total annual spending from participation in trade fairs and exhibitions. The broader goal of these policies is to strengthen Thailand’s position as a major international destination for MICE events and to drive regional and local economic income. – Bangkok Post AI

Higher VAT urged amid net deficit

An increase in the value-added tax (VAT) of 3% was discussed during a session where senators also called for a broader tax base to address a reported net deficit of 760 billion baht for fiscal 2025.

While the proposed 3% increase was described as modest, the senator acknowledged that it could potentially affect low-income earners. Other discussions surrounding tax reform included calls to improve tax collection through digital technology and expanding the tax base to cover the informal economy. – Bangkok Post AI

Thai cabinet notes establishment of eight EEC promotion zones

The Thai cabinet has acknowledged the establishment of eight special economic promotion zones within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

The designated zones include industrial estates, a specialized medical center, a food-processing cluster, an LNG terminal, and a smart logistics hub. Continued … 

Major Starbucks expansion in Thailand planned

Singapore-listed DFI Retail plans to open 250 new Starbucks outlets over the next three years, mainly in Thailand and Vietnam, after taking full control of the licensed business operating more than 1,100 coffeehouses across seven Asian markets.

Thailand, which already has 574 Starbucks outlets, will be an initial focus alongside Vietnam, where the chain has 156 stores. The expansion was outlined by DFI executives following a reorganization of Maxim’s Caterers, its joint venture with Hongkong Caterers. Continued …

Vegetarian Festival spending set to hit 6-year high

Spending during the 2026 Vegetarian Festival is projected to reach a six-year high of 46.9 billion baht. This figure represents a 2.2% increase compared to the previous year, according to a survey conducted by the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

The survey, which included 1,123 respondents, highlights a shift in consumer behavior where people are increasingly choosing to eat at vegetarian stalls rather than cooking at home. While the overall share of vegetarians in the country has fallen to 11% over the last few years, individual spending during the festival period is expected to rise by 7% from Oct. 10 to 18. – Bangkok Post AI

Infrastructure projects diversify Phuket’s economy beyond tourism

Major public and private projects worth more than 214 billion baht are changing the investment landscape of Phuket, according to Phattarachai Taweewong, senior director of market research and public relations at Savills Thailand.

The island, long associated with beaches, hotels and foreign visitors, is attracting investment in airports, public transport, healthcare, shopping centers and large mixed-use and destination developments. Continued … 

Tourist tax goes ahead despite floods

The Thai government is proceeding with the 450-baht tourism tax because an online public hearing showed that 80.5% of respondents supported the collection. Officials intend to use the funds, which are expected to generate 8 billion baht annually, to finance tourism infrastructure and development.

Despite calls from the private sector to delay the scheme due to ongoing flooding, the government remains committed to the rollout in the first quarter of next year. Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul noted that the revenue is essential for addressing the lack of sufficient financial resources for national tourism development. – Bangkok Post AI

Introducing the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards

There are certain travel trends you can feel before you see them in the numbers. This year the message from our Readers’ Choice Awards is remarkably clear: Asia is more enticing than ever.

Japan, of course, has been booming since the pandemic. I traveled there for the first time only last year and was lucky enough to be in Osaka and Kyoto the week the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. I rode an e-bike early in the mornings as the first rays of the sun started to illuminate Kyoto, and I’d stop every so often just to take in the beauty of the flowers up close, in complete solitude before the crowds arrived. It remains one of my most enchanting travel memories. Continued … 

Smart Travel Lovers Are Trading Crowded Beaches For Soulful Culture In Nakhon Si Thammarat

Beyond the beaches that everyone dreams about, southern Thailand has a rhythm that is waiting to be experienced. When you walk through the streets of southern Thailand and step into local markets every single moment feels very personal. It makes you feel a sense of wonder and a real connection.

Analysts suggest that southern Thailand extends far beyond standard tropical shorelines. Observers point out that the territory features an extraordinary mosaic of deep-rooted heritage, pristine ecosystems, distinct culinary traditions, traditional craftsmanship, and serene rural landscapes. Continued …

Time to Rewrite Energy Rules: Unavoidable Transition for Thailand

The Middle East conflict and oil price volatility have highlighted Thailand’s dependence on imported fossil fuels, prompting calls to accelerate its clean energy transition. A seminar involving energy experts, policymakers, and industry representatives concluded that reducing fossil fuel dependence is now an economic and security necessity, not just an environmental goal, with ASEAN neighbors facing similar pressures.

Research presented showed growing industrial demand for green electricity, though supply and infrastructure remain insufficient, while another study emphasized protecting jobs tied to natural gas industries during the transition. Experts recommend modernizing the electricity grid, expanding battery storage, and shifting from the enhanced single buyer model toward market liberalization, including broader direct power purchase agreements. The upcoming Power Development Plan 2026-2050 is seen as a key opportunity to implement these reforms, balancing renewable energy expansion with affordability and economic competitiveness. Continued … 

Southeast Asia could save US$45.4 billion with solar instead of planned gas projects

Southeast Asia could save approximately US$45.4 billion by installing enough solar photovoltaic capacity to generate the same amount of electricity as planned gas power projects across five major economies, according to research group Zero Carbon Analytics (ZCA).

Nearly 49 gigawatts (GW) of gas capacity is in pre-construction or construction across Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam, according to ZCA’s analysis of Global Energy Monitor data. If completed, the projects could generate around 263 terawatt-hour (TWh) of electricity annually. Continued … 

Clean Kinetics Begins Construction Of 3.27 MW Solar Project At Sats Thailand

Clean Kinetics, a Singapore-based solar energy developer, has started construction of a $2-million solar photovoltaic project at Sats Thailand’s central kitchen facility in Pathum Thani province, around 40 kilometers north of Bangkok.

The project will feature a 3.27 MWp solar power system comprising approximately 5,000 solar panels. The panels will be installed across rooftops, carports, and ground-mounted areas within the facility. Clean Kinetics will be responsible for the complete project lifecycle, including design, equipment supply, installation, commissioning, operation, and maintenance. Continued … 

Three foreign gunmen rob foreigner at Pattaya home

Police in Chon Buri are continuing the search for three armed men who broke into a luxury-home estate in Nong Prue and robbed a foreign resident, reported by local media to be Turkish, of cash, Rolex watches and cryptocurrency worth almost 30 million baht. Investigators have identified leads linked to three suspects, who may be Chinese nationals, according to preliminary information. Continued … 

• UK man admits cannabis plot after Thai arrests – Continued … 

• Vietnam Red Notice suspect held at Phuket mall – Continued … 

• Two Maldivians held in Bangkok over ice and cannabis – 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