Tag Archives: Tomorrowland Thailand

bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, medical tourism, phuket

Tuesday’s news-Dec 30

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  • Stricter New Year Controls/Seven-Day New Year Road Safety/Courts Say Expect No Mercy/New Year Bank Holiday/Unsafe levels of smog/Thailand Post Raises Fees/Alleged Abduction and Killing
  • THAILAND-CAMBODIA CONFLICT: Cambodia Breaches Ceasefire/72-hour ceasefire ends today/11th Thai soldier loses leg
  • ECONOMY: Sscrutiny of foreign cash/Thailand’s Digital Payment Revolution/ASEAN-China trade surges/Online gold tax
  • TOURISM: Thailand loses the tourist/Tomorrowland Thailand Approved/Phuket Trials Airport–Patong Boat Taxis
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Exit the Snake, enter the Horse/The year Thailand shook to its core/Where travel learns to slow down
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Rooftop Solar Buyer’s Guide/’No rush’ to install solar panels/EGAT evaluating small nuclear, hydrogen
  • INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Stricter New Year Controls on Fireworks, Lanterns, Gunfire

Thailand’s Interior Ministry has mandated enhanced safety measures for the upcoming New Year celebrations, focusing on strict controls of fireworks, floating lanterns, and gunfire.

Governors across the nation will coordinate 24/7 patrols and enforce legal action against offenders to ensure public safety during this festive period. The initiative involves collaboration with multiple departments under the ministry’s supervision to manage the influx of people traveling home and visiting holiday destinations. Continued …

Thailand Launches Seven-Day New Year Road Safety Crackdown

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has launched a nationwide seven-day intensive road safety campaign for the New Year 2026 holiday period, aiming to reduce accidents, injuries and deaths during one of the busiest travel times of the year.

The campaign runs from Dec. 30 to Jan. 5 under the theme “Drive Safely, Reduce Speed, Reduce Accidents,” with strict enforcement and coordinated action across all provinces. Continued …

Drink-Drive This New Year? Thai Courts Say Expect No Mercy

The Court of Justice has warned motorists against driving under the influence during the New Year’s holiday, highlighting the severity of penalties involved.

Court spokesman Suriyan Hongwilai noted an annual increase in cases during this period, particularly for violating the Land Traffic Act, with drunk driving being a primary concern. Driving while intoxicated by alcohol or substances is strictly prohibited under Section 43(2), and offenders face serious consequences. Continued … 

2026 New Year Bank Holiday: Which Branches Are Open or Closed?

As the New Year 2026 holiday approaches, many Thais and expatriates are preparing to return to their hometowns or travel during the extended break. While most government offices will shut down for several days, bank operating hours in Thailand vary by branch type, particularly between stand-alone branches and branches located inside shopping malls.

To help customers plan cash withdrawals, transfers, and in-branch services, here is a summary of bank closures for New Year 2026, based on announcements from the Bank of Thailand (BOT) and leading commercial banks. Continued …

Unsafe levels of smog in most of Thailand, including Bangkok

Unsafe levels of ultrafine dust blanketed Bangkok and 49 provinces this morning, with four provinces shrouded with red levels of haze, according to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA).

GISTDA reported that unsafe levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and less in diameter (PM2.5) ranged from 37.6 to 86.4 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) of air in Bangkok and 49 provinces. The government-set safe threshold for PM2.5 is 37.5µg/m³ in Thailand. There are 76 provinces. Continued … 

Thailand Post Raises EMS and eCo-Post Fees in 85 Areas

Thailand Post has announced higher delivery charges for EMS express and eCo-Post economy services to selected destinations, increasing costs by 15–20 baht for parcels sent to 85 designated postcode areas.

The changes will take effect from Jan. 1 and will affect customers sending items to locations identified as harder and more expensive to reach. The immediate impact will be higher postage costs for deliveries to islands, remote regions, and certain tourist destinations. Continued …

Five Arrests Made in Alleged Abduction and Killing

Five suspects, including a district officer and a local administrative official, have been arrested over the alleged abduction and killing of a 49-year-old man in Surat Thani province.

The case has caused widespread concern due to the alleged involvement of state officials and the seriousness of the charges, which include murder, enforced disappearance, and concealment of a body. Continued …

Cambodia Breaches Ceasefire with Drone Swarm Over Thailand

Cambodia has reportedly breached a ceasefire agreement by flying over 250 drones into Thai territory, as confirmed by the Thai army. The drones were sighted on Sunday night, crossing various border areas such as Chong Bok, Chong An Ma, and others.

This incident follows a recent ceasefire agreement made on Dec. 27 during the General Border Committee meeting. The Thai army noted that the drones violated tension-relieving measures set out in the joint statement. The drones were seen intruding into four northeastern provinces: Buri Ram, Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani, raising security concerns for military personnel and civilians in these regions. Continued …

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72-hour ceasefire ends today; Second Army Area reports no clashes

The Second Army Area reported at 9 am today the security situation along the Thai-Cambodian border based on developments yesterday, under a ceasefire agreement set to reach 72 hours at 12 pm today.

The ceasefire period has been counted from 12pm on Dec. 27. The Second Army Area said there had been no exchange of heavy weapons fire. Continued …

11th Thai soldier loses leg to landmine blast on border

Another Thai soldier was seriously injured yesterday when he stepped on an anti-personnel landmine, allegedly planted by Cambodian forces, as he was performing his duty in the Khao Santasom area of Kantharalak district in Thailand’s northeastern province of Si Sa Ket.

Army Spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree said the powerful blast blew the left leg off Sgt. Maj. Suchin Chitkreeyar, a member of the 8th engineering battalion of the 1st cavalry division. He also sustained injuries to his left eye. Continued …

BoT tightens scrutiny of foreign cash

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has stepped up regulatory oversight of inbound foreign exchange transactions to ease baht appreciation pressure and prevent misreported or undesirable capital inflows, a senior official said.

Pimpan Charoenkwan, assistant governor for financial markets at the BoT, said the central bank has tightened rules governing the verification of documents for foreign currency sale transactions by residents, both individuals and legal entities. Continued …

Thailand’s Digital Payment Revolution

Thailand’s financial landscape is undergoing a profound transformation that positions the kingdom as a frontrunner in Southeast Asia’s race toward a cashless economy, driven by the explosive growth of real-time payment systems and a decisive shift toward mobile-first commerce.

According to Bank of Thailand data from June 2025, PromptPay registrations have grown nearly 14% year-on-year, while internet and mobile banking volumes have risen 10.6%. Continued … 

ASEAN-China trade to top US$984 billion as Chinese FDI surges in region

ASEAN has overtaken the European Union to become China’s largest trading partner since 2020, and two-way trade in 2025 is on track to exceed 2024’s record of US$984 billion, according to HSBC Global Investment Research.

In a research note by an ASEAN economist at HSBC Global Investment Research, the bank said ASEAN’s widening trade deficit with China partly reflects deeper supply-chain integration, especially in electronics and electrical machinery (E&E). Around 30% of ASEAN’s exports to China are E&E products, and roughly 30% of its imports from China come from the same sector — a dynamic that particularly benefits tech-linked economies such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Continued …

Finance Ministry seeks approval for online gold tax

Thailand’s Finance Ministry is proposing a special business tax on online gold trading to curb speculation and reduce the baht’s volatility. The ministry is seeking legal approval from the Election Commission and the Council of State, as the country is currently under a caretaker government.

The tax is designed to target large-scale, short-term speculators on online platforms and will not affect small retail traders or physical gold purchases. Continued …

Thailand wins the currency game and loses the tourist

While official arrival numbers continue to paint a picture of recovery, many foreign visitors and long-term winter residents in Pattaya say the reality on the ground tells a very different story. A persistently strong Thai baht is quietly reshaping tourist behavior, slashing spending, and raising uncomfortable questions about who Thailand’s tourism economy is really serving.

For European visitors in particular, the currency shift has been stark. Just a year ago, exchange rates hovered near 37 baht to the euro. Today, closer to 36 — and at times stronger — the difference may appear marginal on paper, but over a three- to four-month stay it translates into tens of thousands of baht lost in purchasing power. Continued …

Tomorrowland Thailand Debut Approved for Chonburi in 2026

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has approved incentives for VR One World (Thailand) to organize the Tomorrowland music festival in Chonburi in December 2026. The event is expected to generate an economic impact of 21 billion baht over five years.

This marks the festival’s first foray into Asia, with a daily capacity to host 50,000 attendees, largely international visitors. Tomorrowland Thailand is a collaboration between TL International from Belgium, affiliated with the Tomorrowland Group, and Thailand’s One Asia Ventures. Continued …

Phuket Trials Airport–Patong Boat Taxis

Phuket ran another trial of its boat taxi service yesterday, aiming to ease traffic between Phuket International Airport and Patong Beach.

This initiative seeks to cut travel times from up to three hours on congested roads to just 40 minutes by sea. The trial is part of ongoing efforts by local officials to alleviate the island’s notorious traffic jams. Continued …

Exit the Snake, enter the Horse

As we bid farewell to 2025, and welcome 2026 – and soon, the lunar Year of the Horse – we once again highlight the winners and losers of the year gone by in Asia.

For Thailand, it was a year of continued uncertain economic times as the race to become prime minister ended, only to begin soon again. The on-again, off-again border war between Thailand and Cambodia endures, and Vietnam surpassed Thailand as the go-to destination for Chinese tourists. Continued … 

2025: The year Thailand shook to its core

How much can one nation endure in a single year? In 2025, Thailand found the answer, as the pillars of faith, law, and land shattered under the weight of a perfect storm.

The ground is shaking, and we Thais know well that it isn’t just one pillar failing — it is the entire structure of our society. Looking back, the trouble began when a 7.7-magnitude earthquake, the strongest to hit the region in over a century, rocked Bangkok. Continued …

Thailand, rewritten: Where travel learns to slow down

Travel has entered a reflective era. What once promised escape now seeks alignment, asking not how far one can go, but how deeply one is willing to arrive. In this landscape, the most rewarding journeys offer fewer highlights and greater resonance, leaving travelers not overstimulated, but recalibrated.

Few destinations understand this shift as intuitively as Thailand. Long before sustainability became a global conversation, Thai life was shaped by sufficiency, seasonal rhythms, and community interdependence. What has changed today is the clarity with which these values are being shared, guided by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, inviting travelers to experience the country with greater awareness and intention. Continued …

2026 Rooftop Solar Buyer’s Guide: What Thai homeowners should look for

According to Techatat Buranaaudsawakul, chairman of the Electrical Engineering Department at the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT), rooftop solar should be treated as part of a home’s critical electrical infrastructure, not simply an add-on appliance.

“Safety is a top priority for rooftop solar,” Techatat said “A solar energy system must be designed and installed to the same safety standards as any other electrical system in the house. If homeowners focus only on cost savings without understanding safety requirements and system efficiency, they may expose their families and properties to unnecessary risks.” Continued …

‘No rush’ to install solar panels

Homeowners should not rush into installing rooftop solar panels in the hope of securing tax rebates before the government’s official program begins, according to MEA Smart Energy Solution (MEAei), a subsidiary of the Metropolitan Electricity Authority.

The government has pledged tax reductions of up to 200,000 baht for 90,000 households that adopt solar technology. However, Poramate Pichitanont, renewable energy manager for MEAei, warned that early installations will not qualify for the incentives. Continued … 

EGAT evaluating small nuclear, hydrogen fuel cell tech

As Thailand aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, relevant agencies must explore solutions for electricity generation such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and hydrogen fuel cell technologies.

According to the draft power development plan (PDP) created in 2024, which was scrapped due to a change in administration, the share of renewable energy in the power mix was set to rise to 51% by 2037. Continued …

Bulgaria prepares for the euro amid excitement and skepticism

The Black Sea country on the European Union’s southeast frontier will become the 21st country to join the euro currency zone after it met the formal entry criteria this year, including for inflation, budget deficit, long-term borrowing costs, and exchange-rate stability. Video … 

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

cha am, chiang mai, exports, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand islands, tourism

Thursday’s news-Aug 7

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Dusit Ajara Hua Hin opens/‘Blessing of the Fleet’ ceremony/Huay Mongkol Temple robing ceremony/Monsoon Valley ‘Vineyard Fest’/Thailand, Cambodia agree on ceasefire terms/Growing threat of drones/Mental health problems increasing/Scottish expat loses legs/Wild elephants roam for Thai produce/ECONOMY: Thai Inflation Dips/Global Recession Concerns/Illegal cigarette trade in Songkhla/TOURISM: Tourism players warn of a bad year/Forward bookings dip/Tourism Sector Loses 3 Billion Baht Monthly/Tomorrowland to attract 1 million visitors/Koh Larn’s Vehicle Chaos/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: A First-Time Visit To Thailand/Exploring Chiang Mai Temples/CLIMATE THAILAND: Transforming tangled waste/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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

Dusit Ajara Hua Hin opens in Cha-am

Dusit Thani has announced Dusit Ajara Hua Hin, an ultra-luxury residential development featuring over 60% green space. This is the second project by Dusit Thani as a property developer, following Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside at Dusit Central Park.

Located at 1349 Petchkasem Road, Petchaburi, Cha-am, Dusit Ajara Hua Hin features leisure gardens, kids’ playgrounds, a wellness studio, and salt water pools. The project also embraces the multi-generational living concept, creating designed spaces and facilities for family members across all ages.

Standard services include 24-hour concierge service, housekeeping, bed linen laundry, private garden maintenance, emergency response service, property maintenance, and shuttle service within the development; cooking classes, art and craft workshops, yoga and tai chi classes; room service to personal chefs, catering, in-home party arrangements, hotel spa services, and hotel car services.

Hua Hin to host annual ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ ceremony

The annual ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ ceremony will return to Hua Hin on Sunday, Sept. 7, continuing a tradition that honors the town’s historic connection to the sea and its fishing community.

Held at the Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine, near the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, the ceremony is organized by members of the Hua Hin fishing and coastal communities. It serves as a moment to pay respect to ancestors, offer protection for local fishermen, and express gratitude for the ocean’s continued abundance. Continued … 

Huay Mongkol Temple robing ceremony tomorrow, Saturday

Huay Mongkol Temple in Hua Hin will host the 12th “Robing of the Giant Luang Pu Thuat” ceremony on Aug. 8–9 to mark Mother’s Month and honor the 93rd birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.

The event, organized in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Central Region, will begin on the evening of Aug. 8 with a blessing ceremony at the plaza in front of the giant Luang Pu Thuat statue. Continued …

Monsoon Valley ‘Vineyard Fest’ set this weekend

Monsoon Valley Hua Hin will hold its annual Vineyard Fest, a four-day event celebrating the release of its new 2025 vintages, from Aug. 9-12. The event offers a mix of wine tastings, outdoor dining, and relaxed afternoon entertainment set against the scenic backdrop of the vineyard.

The festival begins on Aug. 9 with the launch of Monsoon Valley’s latest vintages. Visitors can sample a selection of five wines served by the glass. Continued …

Thailand, Cambodia agree in principle to ceasefire terms

Secretariat-level discussions between Thailand and Cambodia, which took place over three days starting Monday, have reached a consensus in principle on key issues relating to the implementation of the ceasefire along their shared border.

Chief of Defense Force Gen. Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar said this included agreement on the terms of reference (TOR) for monitoring efforts by the interim ASEAN defense attaché observer team. Continued …

The growing threat of drones in the Thai-Cambodian conflict

The Thai Cabinet has recently approved the purchase of four Gripen fighter jets, a decision made during the ongoing conflict with Cambodia. This move seems unlikely to face opposition, especially after the Gripen jets significantly changed the dynamics of aerial combat by repeatedly targeting Cambodian military bases.

However, military professionals, experts, and security scholars are expressing concerns. One military expert specializing in drone warfare noted that while the Cabinet has approved the Gripen purchase, it has not authorized the acquisition of drones — despite the current issue of Cambodian or foreign drones causing disruption. Continued …

Mental health problems increasing in Thailand

Some 13.4 million Thais claim to have experienced mental health problems, with people aged 45–59, known as the pre-senior group, reporting the lowest happiness levels, according to the Thai Health Report 2025.

The report, compiled by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and Mahidol University’s Institute for Population and Social Research, and released on Monday, comprises four sections, including mental health and major public health issues. Continued …

Scottish expat loses legs in Bangkok lorry crash

A Scottish man living in Thailand had both legs amputated after a motorbike crash with a lorry in Bangkok.

Willie Braid, a 54-year-old expat from Scotland, was hit while riding his motorbike in the capital on July 27. The driver of the lorry is alleged to have fled the scene in what appears to be a hit-and-run incident. Continued …

Wild elephants roam 30 kilometers for Thai produce

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has reported that wild elephants are straying beyond their forest habitats in eastern Thailand, traveling over 30 kilometers in search of food.

Atthapol Charoenchansa, the department’s director-general, stated that elephants are attracted to the taste of local produce such as durians, mangosteens, bananas, and sugarcane, which are more appealing than their usual forest diet. Continued …

Thai Inflation Dips for Fourth Consecutive Month, Deflation Fears Dismissed

T ailand’s headline inflation fell for the fourth consecutive month in July, reaching -0.70%, according to the Ministry of Commerce. The decline was primarily attributed to cheaper energy and fresh food prices, though officials were quick to dismiss concerns of the economy entering a deflationary period.

The Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) revealed that lower global oil prices and a government-led reduction in electricity tariffs were key contributors to the drop. Continued …

Trump’s Tariff Strategy Sparks Global Recession Concerns

U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariff proposal is rattling global markets and intensifying fears of a broader economic slowdown in the second half of 2025.

The move, which targets key trade partners including the European Union, China, and ASEAN nations, is poised to stoke inflationary pressures at home while threatening already fragile recoveries abroad. Continued …

Illegal cigarette trade in Songkhla cripples local businesses

The Thai Tobacco Trade Assn. has raised alarms over the rampant distribution of illicit cigarettes in Songkhla province, which has impacted over 4,000 legal tobacco retailers and forced the closure of about 200 small shops.

Thanyasaran Sangthong, the association’s executive director, revealed that Songkhla ranks second in the country for illegal cigarette infiltration, severely affecting local tax revenue. Continued … 

Thai foreign tourism players warn of a bad year

The Thai-Cambodian border clash in late July dealt a brutal blow to Thailand’s already crumbling foreign tourism industry in 2025, coming just months after a damaging earthquake shook Bangkok. These events, alongside a January scandal involving the abduction of Chinese nationals by scam gangs in Myanmar, have created relentless negative headlines that drive tourists away.

Latest figures show tourist arrivals have plunged 6.56% compared to last year, while vital cross-border trade with Cambodia — lifeblood for many struggling local traders — has ground to a halt, deepening economic strain. Tourism operators are now demanding one thing from the government: stability. Continued …

Forward bookings dip amid border row

Foreign forward bookings for Thailand have started to feel the pinch due to the Thai-Cambodian border tensions, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), while Chanthaburi tourism operators reported cancellations from foreign tourists for the remainder of the year.

Tourism operators urged the government to offer relief measures for affected businesses in the seven border provinces, such as tax reductions. Continued …

Thailand’s Tourism Sector Loses 3 Billion Baht Monthly

The fierce clashes at the Thai-Cambodian border have severely impacted Thailand’s booming tourism sector, resulting in a monthly loss of 3 billion baht (US $83M). Since hostilities flared last month, the once-bustling border provinces have turned eerily silent, with tourists cancelling over 5,000 hotel bookings.

Sorawong Thienthong, the minister of tourism and sports, revealed that the spiraling cancellations of hotel reservations by foreign visitors are largely responsible for the losses. The fallout is most severe in the seven provinces along the fracture line of the Thai-Cambodian border, where apprehension is rife and rooms lie empty. Continued …

Tomorrowland to attract 1 million visitors in 5 years, says TAT

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) confirms that organizing the ‘Tomorrowland’ electronic dance music (EDM) festival in Thailand will be worthwhile.

It is expected to generate a total economic impact of over 21 billion baht from tourists and attendees, with more than 1 million people participating in the first five years. Continued …

Pattaya Cracks Down on Koh Larn’s Vehicle Chaos

Koh Larn’s chaotic transport scene is about to be tamed with a fresh initiative from Pattaya officials employing bright stickers to control the island’s vehicle frenzy. Over 3,500 vehicles, including motorbikes, taxis, and golf carts, will be sorted, monitored, and regulated as part of a new system designed to enhance safety, transparency, and tourist satisfaction.

This initiative introduces nine vehicle categories to address long-standing issues like overcrowding and unregulated operators disrupting the island’s narrow paths. Continued …

A First-Time Visit To Tantalizing Thailand

It was only my second day in Thailand, but I knew then I’d want to return someday for more of its vibrant street life — a multisensory medley of hole-in the-wall shops, markets brimming with exotic fruits, and outdoor cooking stalls tucked under canopies of plastic tarps, oversized umbrellas, and corrugated metal roofs.

From morning to night, the roads are abuzz with motorcycles, motor scooters and Thailand’s iconic tuk-tuks, those three-wheeled vehicles with a bench in back for passengers or a side cart for hauling things. Continued …

Exploring Chiang Mai Temples

Thailand ranks at the top of many people’s dream destination lists, and rightly so. Of the more than 100 countries I’ve traveled to, Thailand is the one that offers something to everyone who visits. However, many travelers visit Bangkok and the southern islands and tend to miss out on the northern part of the country, which I consider one of its best parts.

Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second biggest city behind Bangkok, is the central hub for exploring northern Thailand. The city features hundreds of ancient temples, a fantastic and unique food scene, and an incredible natural scene, as it is surrounded by mountains. Continued …

Transforming tangled waste into tangible rewards

Thailand’s retail giant Central Group has launched a forward-looking sustainability initiative, “Love the Earth: Zero Waste,” in response to the escalating triple planetary crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, as highlighted by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

The campaign has been rolled out in key tourism-dependent provinces such as Samui, Chanthaburi, and Surat Thani – destinations known for their economic vitality but increasingly strained by mounting volumes of food and plastic waste. Continued … 

  • British Man Busted After iPhone Theft, 2-Year Overstay – Continued …
  • 2 Nigerian Men Caught Crossing into Thailand from Cambodia – Continued …

Foreign man arrested for running illegal motorcycle rental in Phuket – 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.

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

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.

 

90-day online reporting

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
bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, medical tourism, real estate, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-March 29

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TODAY’S NEWS: Green light for alcohol control law/Capping diesel price/Hotels chafe at wage hike//Police reform/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Manufacturing index declines/PM: Legalize casinos/A Bold Step Forward/New SEZ for clean energy/Keen to join the chip frenzy/Bangkok new residential sales fall/Thai CEOs surveyed/TOURISM: Best countries for medical tourism/Koh Samui Tourism Surge/Chiang Mai Hotel Bookings at 30%/Air India sacks pilot for boozy flight/Grab Taxi Service at Suvarnabhumi/Muay Thai Visa/Tomorrowland denies Thailand/Tax waiver for events/ENVIRONMENT: 220 days of hot weather/Thailand’s first nuclear power plant/The only real king of fruits/Tracking Bangkok’s tastemakers/INTERNATIONAL news/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Hua Hin train schedule/Market Village bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Cabinet green lights bills to modify alcohol control law

The Cabinet has given initial approval to five proposed bills aiming to modify the current alcohol control law, a move that could potentially lead to extended selling hours and more relaxed advertising rules. This decision has, however, sparked controversy among anti-alcohol advocates.

The legislation was introduced for its first reading in the House on Wednesday, and received a majority approval, with 389 voting in favor, nine against, and two abstentions. As a result, a special House committee was formed to review the bills before they proceed to their second and third readings. Continued …

Authorities plan to continue capping diesel price

Energy authorities are planning to continue the diesel price-capping scheme, which is set to expire this Sunday, according to the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO).

The capped diesel price is subsidized by the state Oil Fuel Fund, which has accumulated a deficit of 98 billion baht as of Thursday. Continued …

Hotels chafe at targeted wage hike

Hoteliers say it is unfair to apply the minimum wage hike only to the tourism industry, as the recovery has been uneven among targeted destinations. Hua Hin is one of those destinations to benefit from the wage hike.

The tripartite wage committee approved raising the minimum wage to 400 baht for four-star hotels in 10 major tourism cities, starting from the Songkran holiday. Continued …

Police reform may be easier than everyone thinks

Absolutely hopeless as it may seem, the critical state of the Thai police deserves one last try. And who says the last, desperate measure has to be extremely tough, costly or divisive?

This week has seen rock bottom. Just when the country thought nothing would beat the Kamnan Nok incident, the most powerful men in the force have been accused, directly or indirectly, of involvement in massive and systematic bribe taking. In a matter of months, the badly tainted image of the Thai police has been blown up apparently beyond repair. Continued …

  • Canadian man arrested in Buriram for 2,955 days overstay Continued …
  • Foreign woman caught urinating on Bangla Road, Phuket – Continued … 
  • Aussie arrested in Koh Pha Ngan after joyride on stolen motorcycle Continued …

Manufacturing index declines for 17th month in a row

Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) dipped for a 17th consecutive month in February, falling by 2.8% year-on-year to 99.2 points, as a result of lower manufacturing in key areas like the automotive industry, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

Thailand continues to struggle with high household debt and weak purchasing power, the office said. Continued … 

PM: Legalize casinos to save Thailand’s economy

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin advocated for the legalization of casinos to combat the shadowy underworld economy in Thailand. Srettha outlined his vision for a new law permitting entertainment complexes housing legal casinos, aiming to drag illicit activities into the light and bolster national revenue streams.

“We have to bring the gray (underground) economy into the light to allow us to control it, both for security and suitability. And we can collect taxes properly. I agree with this and believe it’s an important issue.” Continued …

A Bold Step Forward – Legalizing Casinos in Thailand

The recent announcement by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin regarding the proposal to legalize casinos within entertainment complexes marks a potentially transformative moment for Thailand.

This move, aiming to shift the informal economy into the formal sector, represents not just an economic strategy but a crucial step in combating the country’s long-standing issue with illegal gambling. Continued …

Thailand establishing new SEZ for clean energy, EV battery investments

Thailand will establish a special economic zone (SEZ) east of Bangkok to support clean energy development, including battery plants to supply its growing electric vehicle industry, Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO) chief Chula Sukmanop said on Wednesday.

“The new special economic zone in Chachoengsao province will resemble an industrial estate, focusing on accommodating investments in batteries, clean energy, and electricity,” said Chula after attending a meeting of the EEC Policy Committee, chaired by Commerce Minister and Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai. Continued …

Thailand keen to join the chip frenzy

Thailand wants to attract more foreign investment to produce advanced semiconductors this year, according to the Board of Investment (BoI).

Many companies in China and Taiwan plan to expand investment in Thailand, particularly for printed circuit boards, as they look to avoid geopolitical risk, said Wirat Tatsaringkansakul, deputy secretary-general of the BoI. Continued …

Bangkok new residential sales fell 22.5% in 2023

New residential units sold in Greater Bangkok in the fourth quarter of 2023 declined by 14.5% year-on-year, resulting in a 22.5% decrease for the full year, according to the Real Estate Information Center (REIC).

Vichai Viratkapan, the center’s acting director-general, said the residential market in Greater Bangkok in the fourth quarter of 2023 had a discrepancy between supply and demand. Continued …

67% of Thai CEOs fear their business won’t be viable in a decade amid climate change

PwC Thailand has released its “27th Annual Global CEO Survey – Thailand” report, which reveals divided views among Thai CEOs on the global economy. The report shows that 45% of CEOs expect improvement while another 45% expect decline.

Additionally, only 27% of CEOs are confident in revenue growth for 2024. The survey also highlights growing concerns over business survival in the face of climate change and pressures from GenAI. Continued …

What are best countries for medical tourism?

In recent years, medical tourism has emerged as a vibrant sector within the global healthcare landscape, blending the pursuit of medical excellence with the allure of international travel.

Individuals around the world are increasingly venturing beyond their borders, not just for the scenic beauty or cultural experiences other countries offer but for something far more critical: quality healthcare services at affordable prices. Continued …

Koh Samui Experiences Tourism Surge

Koh Samui local media has reported a large number of foreign tourists flocking to Koh Samui, Surat Thani. It was reported that Bangkok Airways was fully booked for 43 flights in March and it was estimated that more than 4,500 individuals visited Koh Samui daily.

According to the media, a majority of tourists visit Koh Samui for relaxation during the summer in Thailand. Chaweng Beach, a popular beach destination for foreign tourists, has many activities available, such as sunbathing, water sports, and other cooling activities. Continued …

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Chiang Mai Hotel Bookings at 30% as Air Pollution Concerns Loom

La-iad Bungsrithong, the Northern Thai Hotels Assn. advisor, has revealed that the statistics of hotel bookings in Chiang Mai were only 30% full compared to the start of April from the previous year, 2023.

However, it was expected that the occupancy number would surge back to 70% during the Songkran Festival. In Chiang Mai, La-iad stated the water play would be from April 13-15, however, like other provinces, some areas would be designated to start the water play from April 1 onward. Continued …

Air India sacks pilot for boozy flight from Phuket

Air India sacked a pilot caught flying under the influence of alcohol following a positive alcohol test conducted after operating a flight from Phuket to India.

The captain, who flew a Phuket-Delhi route last week, underwent a breathalyzer (BA) test upon arrival in Delhi. In a bold move, Air India is set to lodge a First Information Report (FIR) against the errant pilot, firmly establishing their stance on the matter. Continued …

AOT Opens Grab Taxi Service at Suvarnabhumi

Airports of Thailand Public Co. (AOT) has partnered with GrabTaxi (Thailand) Co. to open a Grab service center at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).

The center will provide information, assistance, and a pick-up point for passengers and users of the Grab application. Dr. Kitipong Kitimanawat, President of AOT, said that the opening of the Grab service center is in line with the government’s policy to promote Thailand’s airports to be among the top 20 in the world. Continued … 

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Ultimate guide to secure your Muay Thai Visa in Thailand

For enthusiasts eager to excel in Muay Thai at its origin in Thailand, the venture offers not only a profound enrichment but is also situated amid the country’s scenic beauty and famed hospitality.

Nonetheless, before commencing this transformative odyssey, it is imperative to address a vital consideration – obtaining a suitable visa for your Muay Thai training endeavors. Continued …

Tomorrowland denies Thailand to host EDM event

Organizers of the Tomorrowland, a large-scale electronic dance music (EDM) festival, has denied a government statement suggesting that the annual event will come to Thailand, citing the need to study the feasibility of the offer.

According to a report from EDM.com on Thursday, the organizers said further exploration is required, and the venue in Thailand has not yet been confirmed. Continued …

Tax waiver to attract ‘world-class events’

The government will grant tax waivers for organizers of large international concerts, sporting events and festivals, as it steps up efforts to make Thailand a tourism hub.

The Board of Investment said on Thursday that organizers of large international events requiring an investment of at least 100 million baht would receive an import duty exemption on equipment and facilitation for the temporary entry of the required foreign staff. Continued …

‘Thailand could face 220 days of hot weather unless global warming contained’

If the Paris agreement on climate change is not enforced effectively, Southeast Asia could be hit harder by heat waves than other regions, and Thailand could face extremely hot weather for up to 220 days a year in about 20 years, a Thai academic said on Thursday.

Professor Seree Suparathit, director of the Center for Climate Change and Disasters at Rangsit University, was referring to the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) held in Paris in December 2015. The COP21 resolved to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and pursue ways to limit it to 1.5°C. Continued …

Plans for Thailand’s first nuclear power plant

Video 

Why Thai durian is the only real king of fruits

Durians, an acquired taste for most people including some Thais, are not everybody’s cup of tea. However, you may still fall in love with this outstanding “aromatic” fruit once you open your mind and palate to its taste and fragrance.

Just remember, not all durians are created equal. There are so many varieties available in the market, that even durian enthusiasts get baffled, not to mention newbies. Here’s a quick primer to help you navigate your first encounter with these prickly treats: Continued …

Airbnb guide tracks Bangkok’s tastemakers

Airbnb launched its first-ever Creative Guide to Bangkok earlier this week, spotlighting Bangkok’s creative landscapes, vibrant neighborhoods, and local tastemakers.

In line with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) goals to support creative tourism, the guide is curated with local insights from prominent Thai tastemakers and Airbnb superhosts. It showcases the four neighborhoods of Talat Noi, Wang Doem, Talat Phlu and Kudi Chin. Continued …

Cambodia’s pioneering Phnom Penh Post will stop print publication

The Phnom Penh Post, a newspaper founded in 1992 as Cambodia sought to re-establish stability and democracy after decades of war and unrest, said today that it will stop publishing in print this month, the latest blow to the country’s dwindling independent media. Continued …

China lifts penalty duties on Australian wine

China has scrapped anti-dumping and anti-subsidy tariffs on Australian wine, signaling an end to a three-year campaign of trade pressure on Canberra and raising hopes for a revival of the billion-dollar industry. Continued …

Fallen crypto mogul sentenced to 25 years in prison

Crypto entrepreneur Sam Bankman-Fried was sentenced Thursday to 25 years in prison for a massive fraud on hundreds of thousands of customers that unraveled with the collapse of FTX, once one of the world’s most popular platforms for exchanging digital currency. Continued …

Finns are the world’s happiest, but Finland has its challenges

A UN report says Finland is the happiest country in the world, boasting of excellent governance, social support, freedom, stability, equality, inclusivity, education and nature. The UN World Happiness Report 2023 put Finland at the top for the seventh consecutive year, while Thailand was ranked 60 out of 143 countries. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin Chiang Mai flight schedule May 4-June 14

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday

  • Chiang Mai–Hua Hin, 10:20am–11:50am
  • Hua Hin Chiang Mai, 12:20pm–13:35pm

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

  • Chiang Mai–Hua Hin, 9am–10:30am
  • Hua Hin–Chiang Mai, 11am–12:15pm

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

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.

 

90-day online reporting

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