Don Mueang Airport shuttle/Hua Hin full moon party/Cha Am Bikini Beach Run/Thailand Dream Becomes Legal Nightmare/PKK Man’s Visa at Risk/Top prize in wildlife photography/Wildlife sanctuary in Kanchanaburi closed/Domestic Violence Surge/Three attacks in Narathiwat/Malaysia urges delaying trips/Thousands Are Held in Detention/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Thailand’s financial status/PM to approve 10,000-baht digital wallet/Problems with digital wallet/Gambling with Thailand’s future/Thai exports face pressure/To upgrade Ranong Port/Thai e-commerce market under foreign influence/Southeast Asia’s workforce a global powerhouse/The end of cheap palm oil?/TOURISM: Cruise Tourism on Koh Samui/TM6: An In-Depth Analysis/Avoiding the Songkran madness/Trat tourism booms/Andaman Riviera study/Phuket expressway by 2030/Gen Z shapes the future of tourism/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Has Thailand Surpassed the West?/Riding the Wave of Thai Cuisine/This island centuries away/Thailand’s hidden Thai waterfall/Elegance at the Grand Palace/Bangkok’s temple of giving/Cheapest, nicest hotels in Thailand/CLIMATE THAILAND: 4 factories shut down/Dugongs dying/A Stand Against Waste Colonialism/Amazon Web Services touts innovation/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
New Don Mueang Airport shuttle links to Hua Hin, Pattaya
A new feeder shuttle bus service, linking Don Mueang International Airport to Hua Hin and Pattaya, is going to make it a whole lot easier for tourists to experience some of Thailand’ most iconic destinations.
The first route zips passengers from Don Mueang Airport straight to Pattaya, spanning a distance of 162 kilometers. The second route forges a path between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin, stretching 216 kilometers. For 200 baht, travelers can enjoy a scenic three-and-a-half-hour ride.
Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport. Continued …
Hua Hin to host its first full moon party March 15, 650 baht per person
Cha Am Bikini Beach Run March 15 -16
The Cha Am Bikini Beach run is a unique adventure, not only for mixing different surfaces along the course (road and sand) but for inviting runners to participate in their swimsuits. Continued …
Hua Hin Couple’s Thailand Dream Becomes Legal Nightmare
An elderly British couple, Des and Mary Byrne, originally from Middlesbrough, are facing a possible jail sentence in Thailand despite being victims of a brutal assault in their dream retirement destination.
The saga began when the couple, who moved to Thailand in 2020 to build a villa, found themselves embroiled in a land dispute that culminated in violence and subsequent legal troubles. Continued …
PKK Man’s Visa at Risk Following Multiple Dog Attacks
In the coastal district of Bang Saphan, Prachuap Khiri Khan, tensions have risen as the local authorities prepare to tackle a persistent public safety issue. A Swiss national, known locally as Matthias, is facing possible visa revocation following multiple incidents where his dog attacked tourists on the beach.
Central to this unfolding drama is Rolf Weber, a Swiss tourist and a recent victim of Matthias’s unruly dog. Twice bitten while enjoying a beach stroll, Weber is not alone, as the dog’s aggressive behavior has affected several others in the area. Continued …
‘Gathering of Giants’ wins top prize in wildlife photography contest
Wildlife sanctuary in Kanchanaburi closed permanently for restoration
The Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary in Kanchanaburi province spans Muang Kanchanaburi, Si Sawat, Bo Phloi and Nong Prue districts. It was established as Thailand’s first wildlife sanctuary in 1965, covering an area of around 858.55 square kilometers or about 536,594 rai.
Recently, Atthaphon Charoenchansa, director general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, issued an order to close the Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary permanently to all access, prohibiting the collection of forest products in any form, to allow for indefinite forest-restoration efforts. Continued …
Domestic Violence Surge Sparks Urgent Calls for Reform
Domestic violence in Thailand has reached alarming levels, prompting activists to demand urgent legal action. With statistics showing nearly 15,000 individuals seeking hospital care annually for abuse-related injuries, experts argue that the existing legal framework is failing to protect victims effectively.
Varaporn Chamsanit, from the Coalition Against Gender-Based Violence Thailand, notes that, in 2023 alone, 1,086 cases were reported by the media. Disturbingly, 75% of these involved spousal assaults or murders. Unmarried couples aren’t exempt from violence; almost half of reported cases involved firearms. Continued …
Three attacks in Narathiwat leave 2 fatalities, 10 injured
Three insurgent attacks in Narathiwat province resulted in two fatalities and 10 injuries on Saturday night, according to the police. (Editor: Different media are reporting anywhere from 2 to 5 deaths.)
The most significant attack occurred when over 10 armed insurgents drove a truck and a car to the Sungai Kolok district office. They opened fire on volunteer defense officers stationed at the gate. Continued …
Malaysia urges delaying non-essential trips to southern Thailand
Malaysians traveling to or residing in Thailand’s southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat are urged to exercise caution and to remain vigilant following recent security incidents.
The Foreign Ministry yesterday also recommended Malaysians to postpone all non-essential visits to the provinces for the time being. Continued …
They Were Forced to Scam Others Worldwide. Now Thousands Are Held in Detention
Thousands of sick, exhausted and terrified young men and women, from countries all over the world, squat in rows, packed shoulder to shoulder, surgical masks covering their mouths and eyes. Their nightmare was supposed to be over.
Last month, a dramatic and highly publicized operation by Thai, Chinese and Myanmar authorities led to the release of more than 7,000 people from locked compounds in Myanmar where they were forced to trick Americans and others out of their life savings. But survivors have found themselves trapped once again, this time in overcrowded facilities with no medical care, limited food and no idea when they’ll be sent home. Continued …
Increasing clashes among foreign tourists at Phuket and Pattaya amid free visa policies
Recent clashes among foreign tourists at popular tourist spots like Phuket’s Bangla Road and Pattaya have raised concerns about safety and the long-term impact of Thailand’s free visa policies. These altercations, often fueled by alcohol and drugs, have caused both locals and tourists to feel uneasy about the situation.
One commenter expressed, “Phuket has become a mess, it’s all foreigners causing damage and ruining the reputation of the place. Why aren’t there any police at night when these things happen? Respectable tourists will avoid Phuket and warn others about how it’s changing.” Continued …
- Hungarian Man Arrested in Pattaya for Stealing 1.5 Million Baht – Continued …
- Immigration Arrests Foreign Nationals with Fake Passports – Continued …
- Germans and Turkish Man Arrested for Assault on Russian – Continued …
- Foreign shoplifter arrested in Pattaya – Continued …
Thailand’s financial status stable: Comptroller General
The Comptroller General’s Department has confirmed that Thailand’s financial status remains stable, and government spending continues as planned.
After reports indicated that the government’s Treasury balance stood at 245.494 billion baht at the end of January, a significant decrease from the usual range of 400,000 million to 500,000 million baht, potentially affecting public spending, Patricia Mongkhonvanit, director general of the Comptroller General’s Department, clarified that the government is implementing a deficit fiscal policy for the 2025 fiscal year, taking into account revenues, expenditures, and loans. Continued …
PM to approve 10,000-baht digital wallet phase 3
A source from the Government House revealed that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra today will chair the first meeting of the Economic Stimulus Policy Committee. The meeting will focus on the country’s economic situation and the progress of key government economic policies, especially the digital wallet stimulus scheme, which will distribute 10,000 baht in phase 3 via digital wallets.
The government has allocated a budget of over 150 billion baht to cover about 15 million people from the over 20 million who have already registered. Continued …
Problems with digital wallet outlined
Sirikanya Tansakun, MP and deputy leader of the Move Forward Party, posted on her personal Facebook page about the “horror” of the digital wallet scheme.
She posted that after distributing cash twice, depleting nearly 180 billion baht without any economic stimulus effect, the government is now pushing ahead with the “real” digital wallet program. It is expected to be approved by the Economic Stimulus Policy Board today. Continued …
Gambling with Thailand’s future
Since the government introduced its casino legalization policy under the guise of an entertainment complex bill, it has continued to spark debate, with critics arguing the Pheu Thai Party should have never brought it up because the issue lacks public consensus.
With the bill expected to be submitted for parliamentary approval before the legislative session closes in April, intense opposition has arisen, with the criteria for screening entrants a hot topic. Continued …
Thai exports face pressure amid global trade war
Thai exports would be under pressure amid an intensifying global trade war due to the country’s six weaknesses, the Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) said yesterday.
Thailand is among exporting countries affected by the global trade war, which is expected to intensify further after U.S. President Donald Trump announced to raise import tariffs by 25% on goods from Canada and Mexico, and 20% on Chinese goods. Continued …
Transport Ministry to upgrade Ranong Port after 200% import-export surge
The Transport Ministry has planned to improve facilities and services in Ranong Port after witnessing a 200% surge in import-export volumes.
This plan meets the government’s policy to promote the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) and enhance Thai logistics to meet international standards, said Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri. Continued …
How the Thai e-commerce market came under foreign influence
The Thai e-commerce market is heavily under foreign influence, driven by the scale, strategy, and regulatory advantages of platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
This has transformed shopping habits and spurred growth, but it also threatens to sideline local players unless deliberate counteractions are taken. Continued …
What makes Southeast Asia’s workforce a global powerhouse?
Southeast Asia is no longer just an emerging market — it’s a global talent hotspot. With rapid digitization, shifting supply chains, and a young, dynamic workforce, this region has become a go-to destination for businesses seeking innovation, agility and resilience.
For leaders looking to attract, retain and develop top talent in this fast-moving economy, understanding the unique traits of Southeast Asian professionals is critical. What makes them stand out? Let’s break it down. Continued …
The end of cheap palm oil? Output stalls as biodiesel demand surges
Prices of cooking oil could be buoyed up for years by stagnating production and a biodiesel push in top producer Indonesia that are making traditionally cheap palm oil costlier, eliminating an advantage that also curbed prices of rival oils.
Used in everything from cakes and frying fats to cosmetics and cleaning products, palm oil makes up more than half of global vegetable oil shipments and is especially popular among consumers in emerging markets, led by India. Continued …
Cruise Tourism Poised for Expansion with Koh Samui Terminal
In a major boost for Thailand’s tourism industry, the government has announced plans to build a state-of-the-art cruise terminal on Koh Samui, aiming to bolster the island’s economy by catering to the rising influx of international cruise visitors.
Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub revealed the plans yesterday during his visit to Surat Thani, highlighting the project’s strategic importance. This development follows the cabinet’s approval, secured during a session in Songkhla last month, underscoring a concerted effort to enhance infrastructure and economic prospects in the southern region. Continued …
TM6 and the May 1 Deadline: An In-Depth Analysis for Foreign Visitors
The return of a digital entry requirement for foreigners heading to Thailand is drawing closer, with the anticipated launch of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) scheduled for May 1. The initiative revives the spirit of the defunct TM6 form, aimed at providing a smoother, more secure, and modern travel experience.
However, with the clock ticking, clear details and official documentation remain elusive, leaving international visitors, airlines, and travel agencies alike grappling with uncertainty. Continued …
Why some foreign tourists and expats avoid madness of Songkran Festival in Pattaya
Some foreign tourists and expats prefer to stay away from Pattaya during Songkran, the Thai New Year water festival, due to the chaotic and intense celebrations. While many revel in the high-energy water fights and street parties, others find the constant soaking, overcrowded streets, and general mayhem overwhelming.
One major reason for avoidance is the sheer scale of the festival in Pattaya, which extends beyond the official April 13-15 dates and lasts up to a full week. Roads become impassable due to water battles, and even those who simply want to walk or commute risk getting drenched at any moment. For expats who live and work in the city, this can be a significant inconvenience. Continued …
Trat tourism booms, Koh Chang hotels fill up
Trat has witnessed a vibrant start to 2025, with over 465,000 visitors — both domestic and international —flocking to the province in the first two months of the year. The influx has contributed more than 4.3 billion baht in tourism revenue, prompting the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to roll out year-round promotional activities.
On Saturday, Kornkhot Opas, director of the TAT Trat office, reported that between January and February a total of 465,618 tourists visited Trat. Of these, 222,751 (44.5%) were Thai tourists, while 242,867 (55.5%) were international visitors. This surge marks a significant increase compared to the previous year. Continued …
Andaman Riviera study ‘almost done’
The feasibility study for the Andaman Riviera project is set to wrap up this month, says the Transport Ministry. The study for the project, which is aimed at improving connectivity between six provinces along the Andaman coast, will be submitted to the cabinet for final approval in June.
The project, which is estimated to cost about 85 billion baht, will see over 924 kilometrs of new roads built across the southern Andaman provinces of Ranong, Phangnga, Krabi, Phuket, Trang and Satun, to provide a seamless and safe route for tourists to travel along Thailand’s popular coastline. Continued …
EXAT teams up with private firms for Phuket expressway by 2030
The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) is collaborating with private entities to invest in two Phuket expressways, spanning 34.6 kilometers, with a budget of 27 billion baht.
The project is expected to be operational by 2030, with toll fees ranging from 15 to 125 baht. The first phase covers Kathu-Patong, while the second phase extends from Mueang Mai to Koh Kaew to Kathu. Continued …
Gen Z shapes the future of tourism in Asia: Agoda
Generation Z travelers are set to play a pivotal role in redefining the future of tourism in the Asia region, with their unique travel preferences and behaviors standing out compared to previous generations, according to a survey by online travel agency Agoda.
Travelers aged 18-27 are increasingly turning to social media for travel inspiration, and prioritizing experiences over rigid planning. This shift in mindset is not only shaping the future of travel but also opening up opportunities for a more creative and engaging travel experience, Agoda said. Continued …
Has Thailand Long Surpassed the West in Terms of Quality of Life?
For decades, Thailand has been labeled a “Third World” or “Developing Country”, laden with corruption, etc, but in many ways, it now offers a better quality of life than some so-called developed nations. So how do we measure the comparisons?
While many Western countries struggle with rising costs, declining public services, decaying infrastructure and increasing social tensions, Thailand quietly provides an alternative that many find more appealing. Affordability, safety, public services and overall happiness, has Thailand already surpassed the West in the most important aspects of daily life? Continued …
Riding the Wave of Thai Cuisine Buzz
Thai food‘s popularity continues to soar, consistently appearing in top 10 lists and gaining recognition worldwide. Its unique flavors and diverse dishes captivate taste buds globally, making it a beloved cuisine.
With an array of enticing options, Thai food‘s appeal shows no signs of waning, as it wins the hearts of food enthusiasts everywhere. Continued …
This island in Thailand’s Andaman Sea lies 30 minutes from Phuket but feels centuries away
Thailand’s Andaman Sea harbors a secret that most travelers overlook as they flock to Phuket’s crowded shores. Koh Yao Noi — an island where time slows down and authenticity prevails — sits majestically in Phang Nga Bay, just 30 minutes by speedboat from tourism hotspots yet worlds away in atmosphere.
The dramatic limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay create a stunning backdrop for Koh Yao Noi’s untouched beaches. These towering formations, some rising over 300 feet from emerald waters, have protected the island from mass tourism development. Continued …
This hidden Thai waterfall is 250 meters tall, and most travelers will never see its rainbow mists
Did you know that hidden in the remote jungles of Thailand lies a waterfall so massive it dwarfs many of the world’s famous cascades? Thi Lo Su Waterfall, Thailand’s liquid giant, thunders down limestone cliffs in magnificent tiers, creating a natural spectacle that takes adventurous travelers’ breath away the moment they first glimpse its immense power and beauty.
Thi Lo Su stands as an undisputed natural champion among Thailand’s waterfalls, cascading approximately 250 meters (820 feet) high and stretching nearly 450 meters (1,480 feet) across. This colossal natural wonder resides within the pristine Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary in Tak Province, flowing majestically from the Mae Klong River. Continued …
Fusion of Thai and European elegance at the Grand Palace
When you visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok, one of the most stunning landmarks you can’t miss is the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall.
A symbol of Thailand’s royal grandeur and modern vision, this building is a striking blend of two distinct architectural styles — European elegance and Thai tradition. The result is a design that has become an iconic representation of the Kingdom’s royal heritage. Continued …
Wat Hua Lamphong: Bangkok’s temple of giving
In the heart of Bangkok, Wat Hua Lamphong stands as more than just a temple, as it is a place of charity and compassion. Known as the “Coffin Temple”, it is famous for its donation program that helps provide proper funerals for those who pass away without family or financial support.
Wat Hua Lamphong dates back to the reign of King Rama IV in the 19th century. Originally a small temple, it was renovated and expanded during King Rama V’s rule to serve the growing population in Bangkok. Today, the temple is an important spiritual site. Continued …
The cheapest, nicest hotels in Thailand
The first luxury hotels in Thailand opened over a century ago, but the nicest affordable hotels in Thailand promise an equally memorable visit without the hefty price tag. Alongside sprawling Four Seasons, Mandarin Orientals and Ritz Carltons are beautiful, credit card-pleasing boutique hotels and independent resorts that, if you book the right room at the right time of year, will let you revel in luxurious facilities, without spending a fortune.
Whether you’re traveling around the country, in need of somewhere to stay to complement your two-week itinerary, or plotting up on one of the best islands in Thailand, finding the right hotel can really enhance the experience. Continued …
4 factories shut down for pollution turning salt fields black
The Industry Ministry ordered the closure of four factories in Samut Sakhon for concealing 35,000 tons of toxic waste and polluting salt farms, turning them black. One factory had previously been shut down but continued to violate regulations.
Industry Minister Akanat Promphan revealed that the ministry has deployed an inspection team to investigate waste and scrap material management in Na Khok subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Sakhon Province. Continued …
Dugongs dying as seagrass dries up
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) announced that almost 40% of dugongs found stranded last year were underweight due to a lack of seagrass, their primary food source.
DMCR and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Thailand surveyed the dugong crisis on the Andaman coast in January. The report showed the ocean ecosystem is in a critical condition, with many seagrass meadows in Trang, Krabi and Phuket badly deteriorated. Continued …
Thailand Takes a Stand Against Waste Colonialism by Banning Plastic Imports
Since Jan. 1st, Thailand has implemented a complete ban on plastic waste imports. This measure marks a decisive step in the fight against the transfer of waste from wealthy nations to the Global South.
Behind these bans lies a less-known reality: waste colonialism, a system in which industrialized countries outsource their pollution at the expense of nations with limited infrastructure. How does this system work, and what are its environmental and economic consequences? Continued …
Amazon Web Services touts continuous energy-related innovation
Amazon Web Services (AWS), the global cloud service arm of Amazon, is driving toward its sustainability goal by prioritizing carbon-free energy and energy efficiency in its operations.
Aligned with the Climate Pledge Amazon co-founded in 2019, the company has a goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions across its operations by 2040. Continued …
Zelensky-Trump clash spurs rethink by US allies
As they watched Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky evicted from the White House last week after an unprecedented live televised quarrel with President Donald Trump and his Vice President JD Vance, some of America’s closest allies began to swiftly reappraise decades of foreign and defense policy. Continued …
Syria scrambles to contain deadliest violence in years
Syria’s leader vowed yesterday to hunt down the perpetrators of violent clashes pitting loyalists of deposed President Bashar al-Assad against the country’s new Islamist rulers and said he would hold to account anyone who overstepped their authority. Continued …
New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok
The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.
- The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
- It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm
- Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.
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
- State Railway – 1590
Cabinet agrees to Bt235B to fund health Gold Card scheme
Thailand’s currency one of Asia’s worst performers
Cabinet suspends filing of TM6 cards at 12 checkpoints until Oct 15
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s opulent family holiday in Phuket
