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4 Hua Hin hotels receive Michelin Guide awards/Pranburi Mini-Balloon Festival/43 Thailand provinces brace for deluge/Floodwaters Match 2011 Levels/Chiang Mai Floods/Lampang and Sukhothai under water/Tourists evacuated from Mae Hong Son resorts/Crocodile farm owner kills breeding stock/Domestic gold prices/Economy: Economic toll from flooding/10,000-baht disbursement started/To create ‘economic whirlwind’/Elderly Woman in Tears/Needy, disabled delighted/Thais seek extra income/Ease of doing business drops/Rising demand for food/Industrial estate woos investors/Minister urges action on rising baht/Strong baht harms Thai economy/Thai condo market slows/Tourism: Suvarnabhumi to open 3rd runway/Dimmer prospects for China arrivals/Phuket’s tourism boom/Police launch raids on Phuket’s Bangla Road/Thailand Experience: Flavorful journey to Thai wellness/Bangkok’s new street food paradise/Yi Peng Lantern Festival/Cheerful mist at Ban E-Tong/Climate Thailand: Indigenous people defend traditional farming/25-Year Solar Power Agreements/Sustainable island tourism/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

4 Hua Hin hotels receive Michelin Guide awards

Yesterday, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new One, Two, and Three Key distinctions for the most outstanding hotels in Thailand.

The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting.

The One Key Hotels in Hua Hin

Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa
The Standard Hua Hin
V Villas Hua Hin
Aleenta Resort & Spa, Hua-Hin Continued …

Pranburi Mini-Balloon Festival this weekend

Continued …

43 Thailand provinces brace for a deluge of trouble

Weather forecasts predict heavy rain across 43 provinces tomorrow, raising concerns about flash floods and forest runoff, especially in low-lying and mountainous areas.

The southern region’s eastern coast will have 60% of the area experiencing thunderstorms and heavy rain in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat. Continued …

Floodwaters Match 2011 Levels, but a Disaster Is Unlikely: Deputy PM

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has assured the public that despite this year’s rainfall and floodwaters being on par with 2011’s catastrophic floods, a disaster of similar scale is not anticipated. Speaking yesterday, Anutin noted that although Thailand is also impacted by water released from neighboring countries, manageable measures are being undertaken to mitigate potential flooding impacts.

Residents in flood-prone areas, such as Bangkok, have been reassured that the devastating floods of 2011, which saw parts of the capital severely inundated and numerous roads turning into canals, are unlikely to recur. The 2011 floods remain the most damaging in Thailand’s history. Continued …

Chiang Mai City: Floods Expected to Surpass 2011 Levels

The flooding in Chiang Mai continues to worsen as the Ping River reaches record-breaking levels. As of 9pm last night, the water level in the city of Chiang Mai had risen to 4.83 meters, surpassing the 2022 flood level. Authorities expect the level to climb above 5.10 meters, exceeding the 2011 flood levels.

Reports from Chiang Mai indicate that the situation remains critical, as new floodwaters from Mae Taeng District have reached the city. The flooding has expanded, inundating major economic areas such as the Night Bazaar, San Pa Khoi Market, and parts of the Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road, with water depths ranging from 50 to 100 cm. The flood levels are expected to rise further. Continued …

More of Lampang and Sukhothai disappear under floodwater

More areas in the northern provinces of Lampang and Sukhothai are now flooded. Residents have been moving their belongings to higher ground and are avoiding flooded routes as advised.

In Lampang, especially high water levels were seen in the Na Saeng subdistrict of Koh Ka district. Due to the overflow of the Wang River, the floodwater has reached the Eastern Ban Na Kaew Bridge, the main route across the river to Serm Ngam district, resulting in transport difficulties. Continued …

Tourists evacuated from Mae Hong Son resorts as the Pai River overflows

The overflowing Pai River inundated several resorts in Mae Hong Son’s Pai district in the early hours of Wednesday, as officials rushed to rescue villagers and tourists to safety.

Affected resorts include Pai Riverside Golden Hut, Canary Guesthouse, and Pai Nai Fun, which are located on the banks of the river, Pai District Chief Anek Panthayom said on Wednesday. Continued …

Crocodile farm owner reveals ‘devastating decision’ to cull breeding stock

A crocodile farm owner in Lamphun province has made the heartbreaking decision to cull 125 of his breeding crocodiles due to severe flooding that has compromised the safety of both the animals and the surrounding community.

Heavy rains have caused significant damage to the earthen walls of the farm’s wells, creating a dangerous situation for the crocodiles. Despite his best efforts to reinforce the wells, the risk of a breach and subsequent escape of the crocodiles became too great. Continued …

Domestic gold prices head for new high

Domestic gold prices are on course to surpass the previous high of 42,150 baht per baht-weight (15.2 grams) as global prices stayed near an all-time high, approaching $2,700 an ounce, say local traders.

Domestic prices surged 200 baht to 41,100 baht for gold bar early Wednesday as bullion gained 0.3% to top $2,665 an ounce, eclipsing the previous record posted on Tuesday following a report showing U.S. consumer confidence this month fell the most in three years. Continued …

Economic toll from flooding in Thailand estimated at Bt242 billion

The severe flooding that has gripped much of northern and northeastern Thailand is taking a heavy toll on the country’s economy, with the Thai Chamber of Commerce estimating damages at over 242 billion baht.

The flooding, exacerbated by the El Niño and La Niña weather patterns, has disrupted agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and business sectors across the affected regions. The chamber has identified Chiang Rai, Phayao, Sukhothai, Nong Khai, and Nakhon Phanom as the provinces hit hardest by the floods. Continued …

First phase of 10,000-baht disbursement started

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presided over the handing out of 10,000-baht to the first group of recipients on Wednesday morning and pledged to hold the second and third phases soon. In a ceremony held at the Government House, Paetongtarn pressed a mock button to gesture the start of the remittance of the economic stimulus money to the first group of recipients.

However, actual transfers by commercial and government-run banks had reportedly been completed at 5am. Some banks even started the transfers shortly after 1am. For instance, Kasikorn Bank reportedly began the transfers at 1.12am and the Government Savings Bank at 1.50 am. Continued …

Handout to create ‘economic whirlwind’

The government has vowed to proceed with the second and third phases of its economic stimulus handout scheme after the official launch of the first phase yesterday.

“The payment system for the second and third phases is being developed. The Finance Ministry will provide details later,” said Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during an event to mark the program’s start at Government House on Wednesday. Continued …

Elderly Woman in Tears at ATM: Receives 10,000 Baht to Support Family

A 64-year-old woman from Buriram broke down in tears of joy at an ATM after receiving 10,000 baht from the digital wallet program. She shared her struggles in caring for her three disabled siblings and three school-age grandchildren, relying on a meager income from pensions and government assistance, which includes a monthly 300-baht welfare card.

Yesterday at the Agricultural Bank in Buriram, vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities and those with welfare cards ending in zero, were lined up to check and withdraw funds from the 10,000-baht digital program. Continued …

Needy, disabled delighted as Bt10,000 handout begins

Needy and disabled people were delighted to see 10,000 baht deposited into their bank accounts on Wednesday under the government’s cash handout scheme, but not all those eligible received the money on the first day.

In Nakhon Ratchasima, people were seen queuing at ATMs to check their accounts and withdraw the cash at branches of the Government Savings Bank and Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives in Phimai district on Wednesday morning. Continued …

Thais seek extra income as consumer costs spike

Rising costs are causing 84% of Thai consumers to seek extra income to ensure their financial resilience, according to NielsenIQ’s Mid-Year Thailand Consumer Outlook. Thai consumer behaviour has shifted significantly as households navigate economic uncertainty and escalating living costs.

However, 29% of consumers report improvements in their financial positions since January 2024, up from 24%, while 35% feel their financial position has worsened, an uptrend from 48% earlier in the year. Continued …

Thailand’s ease of doing business drops again, now 12th in Asia-Pacific

Thailand fell three places from 2022 to 12th among Asia-Pacific nations in terms of ease of doing business, according to a survey by the Asia Securities Industry and Financial Markets Assn. (ASIFMA).

Among the 13 economies ranked in 2023, Singapore was in first place with an average score of 7.67, retaining its top position from the previous year. In second place was Hong Kong (7.38), followed by Australia (7.16) and Taiwan (6.61). Continued …

Rising demand for food pushes up exports

Exports in August expanded by 7% as demand grew for Thai agricultural and food products, thanks to the increased purchasing power of trading partners.

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, said exports in August increased by 7% to US$26.2 billion (940 billion baht), driven by demand for agricultural and agro-industrial products, as well as industrial products, supported by global climate fluctuations and the recovery of the service sector in key markets. Continued …

Thai industrial estate authority woos investors from China

The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) is actively promoting Thailand as an attractive investment destination for Chinese businesses, emphasizing the country’s strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, and pro-business policies.

During a recent investment promotion event in Shenzhen under the campaign “Now Thailand – The Golden Era”, IEAT Chairman Yuthasak Supasorn highlighted Thailand’s potential as an investment hub and underscored the long-standing relationship between the two countries. Continued …

Finance minister urges action on rising Thai baht, high policy rate

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has expressed concerns about the strengthening baht and the current policy interest rate, which he says is too high. Pichai, who doubles as deputy PM, said on Wednesday that a stronger currency will hurt Thailand’s competitiveness in exports against other nations in the region.

The baht has appreciated to 36.23 baht against the U.S. dollar, the highest in 19 months. This, he said, was influenced by the U.S. Federal Reserve System’s decision to reduce its policy interest rate, and it has signaled it will further cut the rate by 0.75% soon. Continued …

Economists and exporters agree strong baht harms Thai economy

A strong Thai baht against the U.S. dollar does more harm than good to the Thai economy, according to the opinions of three economists and rice exporters.

Dr. Naris Sathapholdeja, chief of the Data and Analytics Group of TMB Thanachart Bank, said that the strengthening of the Thai baht against other currencies in this region makes both exports from Thailand and tourist visits to Thailand more expensive. Continued …

Thai condo market slows amid withdrawal of Chinese and Russian investments

The Thai condominium market is experiencing a significant slowdown due to the withdrawal of Chinese and Russian capital. In recent years, Chinese and Russian investors have dominated the condominium market in Thailand, particularly in cities like Bangkok and Pattaya.

According to data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), in 2023, Chinese buyers acquired 6,614 units, representing 46% of total foreign sales, while Russians purchased 1,260 units. However, the situation has drastically changed in 2024. Continued …

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to open its 3rd runway on Nov 1

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport will open its third runway on Nov. 1, allowing the airport to handle many more flights, the director of the Airports of Thailand (AOT) said.

Kirati Kijmanawat, AOT director, said on Wednesday that the runway is complete and test runs on landing and take-offs have been conducted under the endorsement of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand. Continued …

Dimmer prospects for China arrivals during Golden Week

The flow of Chinese tourists during the Golden Week holiday next week might be weaker than expected, as a strong baht and the mainland’s sluggish economy limit tourist expenditure, while other foreign arrivals start to bargain for lower services prices.

Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said if the baht continues to appreciate against most currencies, it will be bad for tourism. Continued …

Phuket’s tourism boom set to break records this year

After a rocky few years post-Covid, Phuket is poised to smash its highest-ever revenue records in 2024, even if tourist numbers don’t quite hit pre-pandemic levels.

Longer stays, higher spending and a shift in visitor profiles are key to this tourism boom, according to Rangsiman Kingkaew, vice president of strategy and planning at the Phuket Tourist Assn. (PTA). Speaking at a press conference led by Phuket Gov. Sophon Suwannarat, Rangsiman outlined the private sector’s ambitious strategy to drive tourism back to its peak. Continued …

Police launch raids on popular nightlife venues on Phuket’s Bangla Road

In a move to clean up the streets of Patong, police and health officials are back in action, targeting Bangla Road’s nightlife hotspots with surprise drug tests. The high-stakes operation saw staff at multiple entertainment venues undergo random tests, aiming to ensure drug-free working environments in the heart of Phuket’s party scene.

This crackdown, part of the third phase of a wider crime prevention campaign by Region 8 Police, falls under the banner “Protect the people, suppress dangers, be modern, and care for the people.” Their focus is to ensure that popular entertainment venues are drug-free through random urine tests as part of the White Entertainment Venue Project. Continued …

A flavorful journey to Thai wellness

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a wellness seeker, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites you to embark on a journey with “Wellness On A Plate”. Discover the magic of Thai cuisine in new light and in a place where delectable flavors meet unparalleled nutritional benefits.

Thai food is a treasure trove of health benefits, packed with natural ingredients and herbs. The “Wellness On A Plate” journey unveils the secrets of Thai culinary wisdom, offering a holistic approach to wellness that nourishes both body and soul. Continued …

Banthat Thong: Bangkok’s new street food paradise

Banthat Thong, Bangkok’s new trending landmark, has transformed from a neighborhood known for clothing, sports equipment and car accessories into a street food hub, earning the nickname Yaowarat (Chinatown) 2. The area now bustles with popular food stalls, offering a variety of savory and sweet treats.

After the Covid-19 pandemic, Banthat Thong benefited from Chinatown’s overcrowding and a revamp by the Chulalongkorn University Property Management Office, which filled the neighborhood with food options. As a result, tourists are now flocking to this vibrant street to sample its delicious fare. Continued …

Why You Should Attend The Yi Peng Lantern Festival In Thailand

If you are looking for something interesting to do for your November break, here is a suggestion: head out to Thailand to experience the enchanting Yi Peng Lantern Festival. Also known as Yee Peng, it is celebrated primarily in northern Thailand, with Chiang Mai being the focal point of this breathtaking spectacle.

Picture thousands of radiant lanterns gracefully ascending into the night sky, creating an awe-inspiring display above the city. Save the date for Nov. 15-16 to witness this religious and cultural celebration that will leave you spellbound. It’s a time to pay homage to the Buddha, seek good fortune and wisdom, and release lanterns into the starry night. Continued …

Playful rain, cheerful mist at Ban E-Tong

As soon as we arrived at Ban E-Tong, a small village in Kanchanaburi province, in the late afternoon, everyone found themselves in a kingdom engulfed by mist. The familiar scenes were almost entirely swallowed up. We willingly stepped out of the car, humbly embracing the clarity of the season.

The journey, more than 300 kilometers from Bangkok, felt longer. Although the M81 motorway has begun trial service, significantly reducing travel time, once we reached Thong Pha Phum district, we still had to drive another 70km up the mountain to Ban E-Tong. The narrow, winding road with 399 curves requires extra caution, especially during the rainy season. Continued …

Indigenous people defend traditional farming in northern Thailand

The Thailand’s Pwo Karen of Ban Mae San have prospered in harmony with nature, upholding their traditional agricultural practices and rich cultural heritage for over 300 years. However, government measures are now putting their way of life at risk.

In recent years, between January and April, residents of Bangkok and northern Thailand have struggled to breathe due to high levels of pollution in the air. As the air quality index can reach 150 and even 200 AQI during these months — levels deemed unsafe for humans — anti-pollution masks have become essential. In response, the government has scrambled to provide explanations and solutions. Continued …

B.Grimm Power Secures 25-Year Solar Power Agreements With EGAT And PEA

B.Grimm Power Public Co. (B.Grimm Power) has signed 25-year power purchase agreements (PPAs) with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) through its subsidiaries and joint ventures. The agreements cover eight companies and represent a combined total contracted capacity of 323.3 megawatts (MW) for solar farm projects.

The scheduled commercial operation dates (SCOD) for these projects will span from 2026 to 2030, contributing to Thailand’s renewable energy goals. This initiative aligns with B.Grimm Power’s “GreenLeap-Global and Green Strategy,” which aims to support the rapidly evolving energy markets and help Thailand meet its net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2065. Continued …

Phuket hosts forum on sustainable island tourism

Sustainable tourism plays an important role in strengthening local communities, especially in the face of climate-induced emergencies such as floods and storms that have affected Phuket, Gov. Sophon Suwannarat said on Wednesday.

He made the comment at the opening of the 25th Inter-Islands Tourism Policy (ITOP) Forum, which is running until Friday at the Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort. Continued …

SpaceX plans $15-billion investment in Vietnam

Elon Musk’s SpaceX plans to invest $15 billion in Vietnam, the Vietnamese government said today. The statement came after a meeting in New York between Vietnamese President To Lam and Tim Hughes, SpaceX’s senior vice president for global business and government affairs. Continued …