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Thursday’s news-July 27

  • Thailand Hikes Entrance Fees for Foreign Visitors at Historical Attractions/
  • Heavy rain forecast for most of Thailand from July 29 to Aug. 1/
  • Soi dog from Hua Hin Railway Station finds new home/
  • As El Nino fuels fire risk, Southeast Asia prepares for haze crisis/
  • Key considerations when applying for a business license in Thailand/
  • Don Mueang Airport’s Director Transferred Over Horrific Accident/
  • Group works to end frozen British expat pensions/
  • Locals complain as Phetchaburi overrun with thieving macaques/
  • Pa thong ko named fifth best street food sweet in the world/
  • Thailand election: MFP seeks reconsideration of Pita’s prime ministerial candidacy/What Pheu Thai’s policies mean for the people and the economy/Meeting in Hong Kong Sparks Speculation on Government Formation/
  • Economy: Thai GDP growth forecast sees downward revision as tourism revenue below estimates/Rising cost of living top concern among Thais/Thailand ranks 7th among world tea producers/
  • Tourism: Low-cost carriers ramp up China flights/
  • Thailand Experience: 10 Things To Know Before Visiting Khao Sok National Park/
  • International: Cambodia leader to step down in 3 weeks, his son will succeed him/China, Taiwan Prepare For Their Most Powerful Typhoon This Year/’Second wave has begun’: Ukraine makes push for southern province/Global warming contributing to rise in skin cancer/
  • 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

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Thailand Hikes Entrance Fees for Foreign Visitors at Historical Attractions

In a recent move by the Thai government, entrance fees for foreign visitors at historical landmarks have been raised.

This amendment affects both registered historical locations and 72 national museums across the country. However, the fees for Thai nationals will remain consistent with the rates set in 2008. Continued …

Heavy rain forecast for most of Thailand from July 29 to Aug. 1

People living in northern, northeastern, central and southern Thailand can expect heavy to very heavy rain and accumulations, which may cause flash floods and overflows, especially along waterways and lowland from July 29 to Aug. 1, according to the Meteorological Department.

It says that a moderate monsoon trough will move south, to lie across northern Laos, meeting a low pressure cell over the coast of northern Vietnam. In the meantime, the southwest monsoon prevailing over Thailand will strengthen. Continued …

Soi dog from Hua Hin Railway Station finds new home

A heartwarming story about a stray dog in Hua Hin named Chao Long has captured the attention and affection of netizens in Thailand after it went viral on social media earlier this month.

The story revolves around the Hua Hin Railway Police, who had been caring for the dog, and the uncertain fate that awaited Chao Long when the railway police station was slated for closure. Continued … 

As El Nino fuels fire risk, Southeast Asia prepares for haze crisis

Southeast Asian nations are gearing up to tackle the threat of a tougher-than-usual “haze” season together, as the El Nino climate phenomenon raises the risk of soaring temperatures.

Ministers and officials from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met in Singapore last month, where they vowed to ramp up monitoring of wildfires and efforts to prevent air pollution, and finalize a new plan to boost cooperation. Continued …

Key considerations when applying for a business license in Thailand

Starting a business in a foreign country can be a challenging and complex endeavor, especially when it comes to navigating the legal landscape. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on Thailand law firms and legal services, specifically tailored for entrepreneurs looking to establish or expand their businesses in this captivating country.

We aim to break down complex concepts and guide you through the essentials, so you can focus on what truly matters – growing your business in Thailand and achieving success throughout the dynamic market. Continued …

Don Mueang Airport’s Director Transferred Over Horrific Accident

The Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) yesterday transferred the director of Don Mueang Airport to the head office after a female passenger’s left leg was severed to the knee upon being swallowed by a moving walkway on June 29.

The director, Karun Thanakuljeerapat, will now assume the position of a consultant at the head office, while Wichit Kaewsaithiam, the director of Chiang Mai Airport, replaces him at Don Mueang. Continued …

Group works to end frozen British expat pensions

A new page and associated group has been created to assist and support the campaign to “End Frozen Pensions” – for those affected British ex-pats who live in Thailand.

Frozen state pensions is the practice of the British government of “freezing” UK state pensions (that is, not uprating the amount in line with “Triple Lock” on an annual basis, as is done for residents in the UK), for pensioners who live in the majority of other countries, apart from the European Community countries and a few other countries with reciprocal agreements with the UK. Continued …

Locals complain as Phetchaburi overrun with thieving macaques

Phetchaburi authorities are pushing for long-tailed macaques to be removed from the protected animals list because their population has been rising and they are becoming a nuisance for the locals.

Provincial Gov. Natthachai Nampoolsuksan visited the Phra Nakhon Khiri Park on Tuesday after receiving complaints that the long-tailed macaques living in the area have been disturbing locals. Continued … 

Pa thong ko named fifth best street food sweet in the world

TasteAtlas, the renowned food website, released its rankings for street food desserts. Topping the list at number one with a rating of 4.8 points is the Portuguese delicacy pastel de nata.

However, Thai street food fares just as well, showcasing its culinary prowess. The delectable Thai snack pa thong ko secured the fifth spot, earning a highly commendable rating of 4.6 points. Continued … 

MFP seeks reconsideration of Pita’s prime ministerial candidacy

The Move Forward Party (MFP) is determined to push for a reconsideration of Pita Limjaroenrat’s renomination as a prime ministerial candidate, urging the National Assembly to handle the matter internally without involving the Constitution Court.

The scheduled Parliament meeting for prime minister (PM) selection, initially set for July 27, took an unexpected turn when Parliament President Wan Muhamad Nor Matha, also known as Wan Nor, suddenly canceled it. This decision came in response to a complaint filed with the Constitution Court by the ombudsman regarding the rejection of Pita’s candidacy. Continued …

What Pheu Thai’s policies mean for the people and the economy

The Pheu Thai Party’s economic platform is back in focus now that it has been tasked with the responsibility of forming the next government.

Pheu Thai, which has the second highest number of seats in the House of Representatives, finds itself in the driver’s seat after coalition leader Move Forward failed to get its candidate elected prime minister. Continued …

Meeting in Hong Kong Sparks Speculation on Government Formation

News reports that Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul met with former PM Thaksin Shinawatra in Hong Kong before Thaksin’s latest announcement of his return to Thailand on Aug. 10 have dominated the airwaves.

Following the alleged meeting, the Pheu Thai’s meeting with coalition partners on Tuesday was canceled, and the prime minister voting that was set for Thursday has been postponed. Continued …

Thai GDP growth forecast sees downward revision as tourism revenue below estimates

The Ministry of Finance has revised down Thailand’s economic growth projection this year to 3.5%, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous estimate of 3.6%.

The downward adjustment is due to assumptions of reduced per capita spending by tourists per trip, although the number of tourists is still expected to be around 29.5 million. Additionally, exports are expected to contract by 0.8%, according to Fiscal Policy Office Director-general Pornchai Thiraveja. Continued …

Rising cost of living top concern among Thais

Ipsos, a market research and consumer opinion survey company, has just published the results of its survey on the issues that most concern people in 30 countries around the globe.

For Thailand, where the survey covered the past six months and involved a sample group of 6,000 people aged 18 and above, representing the demographics across the country, the top five concerns were given as follows: Continued …

Thailand ranks 7th among world tea producers

Data compiled on the global tea market in 2022 reveal that worldwide tea production is valued at over US$17 billion annually, while the global tea trade is valued at US$9.5 billion, with the main revenue coming from tea exports.

It’s a market that’s expanding at 6%-7% annually, and by 2025 the culture of consuming tea is projected to increase by 5%, for a total of 7.4 million kilograms of tea, says Asst. Prof Piyaporn Chueamchaitrakun, head of the Tea and Coffee Institute at Mae Fah Luang University in Chiang Rai. Continued …

Low-cost carriers ramp up China flights

Low-cost airlines are ramping up flights to China, although capacity continues to lag the level recorded prior to the pandemic, while the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) doesn’t wish to rush into using a visa fee waiver scheme to attract more foreign tourists.

Despite lifting border restrictions since the beginning of this year, which was earlier than expected, the tourism market is expected to only recover to less than 50% of the level seen in 2019, which peaked at roughly 10 million. Continued …

10 Things To Know Before Visiting Khao Sok National Park

Travelers planning a trip to Thailand should consider visiting Khao Sok National Park as part of their itinerary. While it’s easy to spend a full week lounging on the beaches in the Phi Phi Islands (which also offer free things to do for budget travelers) or scuba diving in Koh Tao (home to some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world), there’s more to discover in the country’s south.

Khao Sok National Park is worth spending a few days exploring, as it’s home to some of the most amazing hidden gems in Thailand. Find out more about why it’s worth travelers’ attention and what to know before going. Continued …

Cambodia leader to step down in 3 weeks, his son will succeed him

Longtime Cambodian leader Hun Sen said Wednesday he will step down in three weeks as prime minister and hand the position to his oldest son, who won his first seat in Parliament in Sunday’s election. Continued …

China, Taiwan Prepare For Their Most Powerful Typhoon This Year

China urged fishing boats to seek shelter and farmers to speed up their harvest, while Taiwan suspended annual military drills as Super Typhoon Doksuri spiraled closer to East Asia, potentially reaching deep into China. Continued …

‘Second wave has begun’: Ukraine makes push for southern province

A major push in the southern Zaporizhzhia province Wednesday appears to signify Ukraine has launched a more aggressive phase of what so far has been a slow-developing counteroffensive aimed at recapturing territory from Russian occupation. Continued …

Global warming contributing to rise in skin cancer

Global warming is contributing to a rise in skin cancer globally, including Thailand, where rates are rising among women over 50 years of age. Rates of skin cancer rose about 1% per year among women aged 50 and older from 2015 to 2019 but stabilized among men, according to the Global Cancer Observatory. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

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 Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, hua hin, real estate, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-July 18

  • Anantasila’s Got Talent event set Wednesday/
  • Hua Hin Beach Life, July 21-23/
  • Officials in Hua Hin brief Night Market traders against selling counterfeit goods/
  • Major Muay Thai tournament coming to Hua Hin/
  • Magazine ranks Thailand 9th best retirement spot/
  • Storm Talim advances on Thailand/
  • Coalition decides to propose Pita as its PM candidate in second round/
  • Senators plan moves to derail people’s choice PM/
  • The promises and perils of crowdfunding hospital bills in Thailand/
  • Chon Buri resident’s lucky escape from giant lizard lurking in toilet/
  • Economy: Home buyers looking to resell properties/Thailand now world’s 2nd largest exporter of canned/processed fish/
  • Tourism: International tourism set to fall short next year/
  • Thailand Experience: Bangkok’s Chef Ton: The face of Thailand around the globe/
  • International: Vietnam implements unlimited re-entry 90-day e-visa/After bridge attack, Russia halts participation in Black Sea grain deal/
  • 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

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Officials in Hua Hin brief Night Market traders against selling counterfeit goods

Officials have briefed traders at Hua Hin Night Market about selling counterfeit goods to locals and tourists.

The move is part of a concerted effort to combat intellectual property infringement,
and comes after a meeting was held on July 14 in the Hua Hin municipal office. Continued …

Major Muay Thai tournament coming to Hua Hin Sunday

On Sunday, July 23, Hua Hin will play host to a Muay Thai tournament aimed at promoting Thailand’s cultural prowess and boosting its economy and tourism sector.

Organized by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and the Hua Hin Sports Development Assn., this event aims to showcase the country’s soft power and reinforce the positive image and attitude of Thai citizens. Continued …

Magazine ranks Thailand 9th best retirement spot

Thailand secured its position as the world’s ninth-best retirement spot on International Living Magazine’s 2023 Annual Global Retirement Index. The index ranks countries based on their suitability for retirees, taking into account various factors, including cost of living, cost of healthcare, cultural activities, and more.

In the 2023 index, Thailand shares the spotlight with other popular retirement destinations such as Portugal, Mexico, Panama, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Spain, Greece, and France. Notably, Thailand is the only Asian country featured in this esteemed group. Continued …

Storm Talim advances on Thailand

Several provinces are likely to be hit with heavy to very heavy rain from today to Thursday due to the influence of severe tropical storm Talim, the Thai Meteorological Department said in a weather warning issued today.

The department said the storm is hovering over Guangxi region in southern China, with wind speeds at the eye of about 100 km/hour. It is moving west at 20 km/hour and is expected to make landfall in upper Vietnam today or tomorrow and will downgrade into a depression and a severe low-pressure area, respectively. Continued … 

Coalition decides to propose Pita as its PM candidate in second round

The Move Forward-led eight-party coalition has decided to propose Pita Limjaroenrat as its candidate for prime minister in the second round of voting on July 19. The decision was made at a meeting of the eight-party coalition on Monday at Thai Summit Tower in Bangkok, Pita revealed.

The 42-year-old candidate said that he would still run for the coalition, but added that if he did not see a “significant” improvement in support, he would be prepared to back Pheu Thai’s nominee. Continued …

Senators plan moves to derail people’s choice PM

On Monday, a group of Thai senators announced they would oppose the renomination of Pita Limjaroenrat to parliament as prime minister on Wednesday. The move comes as concerns also grow about the potential intervention of the Constitutional Court on the same day. The court has a petition before it which could ultimately see the Move Forward Party dissolved.

The week is expected to see significant development in the political arena, with all the signs pointing toward a plot by conservative elements to derail the democratic agenda of the Move Forward Party. Continued …

The promises and perils of crowdfunding hospital bills in Thailand

For the 67 injured Brits who have appealed for cash to pay hospital bills in Thailand since the beginning of 2023, charity giving is both the first stop and a last resort. The British government and insurance companies will instantly recommend the route to distraught families, but the relatives in question can’t find mega-cash anywhere else in any case.

Commercial funding platforms such as the highly popular GoFundMe handle most of the campaigns. A review of the ads suggests that the average amount requested was around 25,000 GBP, with about 40% of the cash actually donated by the time the ad was cancelled or, more commonly, simply fell into disuse. Continued … 

Chon Buri resident’s lucky escape from giant lizard lurking in toilet

A resident of the Bang Nang community in Chon Buri’s Phan Thong district encountered an outsized lizard in his toilet. He was fortunate enough to evade a potential bite after doing his business as usual and alerted others of the lurking danger with detailed posts on social media.

Late at night, when Tiwa Kheawsom was using his bathroom, he noticed an eerie image after flushing the toilet. Much to his amazement, it was the head of a giant lizard lodged in the toilet. Despite his repeated attempts at flushing, the lizard refused to retire into the drainage system. Continued …

Home buyers looking to resell properties

With more people struggling to repay home loans, the number of second-hand homes and condos posted for sale is on the rise. The increase in non-performing assets (NPA), or foreclosed homes in the real estate market appeals to foreigners seeking residential properties. in prime locations.

According to Anchana Vallipakorn, co-founder and CEO of Baania (Thailand), the overall second-hand property market in Bangkok has seen a significant increase in the number of listings in five districts, namely Huai Khwang, Wattana, Chatuchak, Khlong Toei, and Ratchathewi. Continued …

Thailand now world’s 2nd largest exporter of canned/processed fish

Thailand has emerged as the world’s second-largest exporter of canned fish and processed fish products, after China, and the top exporter in ASEAN.

The expansion is being driven by free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries such as Japan, Chile, Peru and China, the Commerce Ministry said. Continued …

International tourism set to fall short next year

Tourism revenue from the international market in 2024 will not be able to match the level recorded in 2019, as the target has been downgraded to 1.92 trillion baht from an earlier target of 2.29 trillion baht due to the impact of a “polycrisis”, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

However, the overall target has been maintained at 3 trillion baht, as the agency will push the domestic market to reach 1.08 trillion baht next year. Continued …

Bangkok’s Chef Ton: The face of Thailand around the globe

Easily one of the more approachable and friendly chefs, chef Ton isn’t just a pretty face. The first Thai chef to take home the coveted No.1 spot, chef Ton is also the only chef to achieve the top spot and have two restaurants in the top five on the Asia’s 50 Best 2023 list. His other fine dining restaurant, Nusara, is No.3.

“The day after we won, Le Du’s inbox had almost 1,000 emails for reservations, which is something we have never seen before. This led to us to open reservations three months in advance. Everyday we have about 80 people on the waiting list and we haven’t added any more seats. Le Du can seat around 36 people and can only do about 60 covers, maximum. Though we don’t actually do two covers a night because we want people to enjoy and take their time. We don’t want to rush them through the experience,” says chef Ton. Continued … 

Vietnam implements unlimited re-entry 90-day e-visa

An extension of the E-visa to 90 days is expected to lure more oversea tourists to Vietnam. Starting on Aug. 15, upon being granted an e-visa, a visitor can enter and exit unlimited times within 90 days without obtaining a new visa. Continued …

After bridge attack, Russia halts participation in Black Sea grain deal

Russia said on Monday that it had halted participation in a landmark UN-brokered deal, which allowed Ukrainian grain to be exported through the Black Sea, just hours after Moscow said Ukraine had attacked the Crimean Bridge. Continued …

UPDATED! Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

UPDATED! Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

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 Hughways – 1586
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, covid, hua hin, phuket, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s News-June 27

  • Special education fund-raising event this Sunday in Khao Tao/
  • Market Village Durian Festival June 30-July 4/
  • Chokdee Market at Centara on July 2/
  • What If Pita Is Rejected by the Junta-appointed Senate and Street Protests Resume?/
  • Monsoon surge raises flood risk across Thailand: 47 provinces on high alert/
  • COVID infections falling steadily, fewer fatalities over past month/
  • Bangkok trying new tech to solve traffic problems/
  • Analyzing the Myanmar Crisis and Thailand’s Complicity/
  • Economy: Thai economy booms as fiscal income beats projections, with 122B-baht surplus/17 Thai conglomerates make it to Forbes’ ‘Global 2000’ list/Thailand’s real estate sector urges foreign investment boost/Thailand unprepared as foreign investors flock back to ASEAN/Exports drop 4.6% in May/Economic disparity in Thailand widens, agricultural sector hit hardest/Plan to eradicate poverty proposed with 7 ‘sandbox’ provinces/
  • Tourism: Phuket Peranakan festival dazzles, promotes sustainable tourism and local culture/
  • Thailand Experience: July packed full of amazing festivals and events around Thailand/The most popular Thai dish among Aussies revealed/The most hard-to-book restaurants in Bangkok, from street food to fine dining
  • International: Biden: US, allies not involved in uprising against Putin/Hong Kong sees over 1 million visitors during Dragon Boat Festival/World’s largest hydro-solar power station at the highest altitude in Tibet/Jumbo problem: Sri Lanka’s battle with plastic pollution
  • 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

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Special education fund-raising event this Sunday in Khao Tao

Khao Tao Beach will host the Ejan Satu Koh Singto Challenge this Sunday. The event raises funds for a state-of-the-art school for children with special educational needs or disabilities.

The Special Children’s School is being built in Hin Lek Fai, and will provide educational facilities for 48 children currently attending the Special Education Center at Anubaan Hua Hin Nongkhon School.

The school assists children with speech and language difficulties, hearing or visual impairments, autism spectrum disorders, and emotional and behavioral issues.

Event competitors swim and kayak out to Koh Singto, covering distances of 5km and 13km, respectively. The event gets underway on Khao Tao beach at 6am on Sunday morning. – HHT

What If Pita Is Rejected by the Junta-appointed Senate and Street Protests Resume?

With the Parliament to reconvene on July 3, the voting for the new prime minister is not too far away. Some prominent junta-appointed senators continue to claim that Move Forward Party PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat will not be getting their support, or enough votes, and the possibility that Pita will not be chosen as the next PM is a lingering fear.

For weeks now, some protest leaders, including monarchy-reform protest co-leader Arnon Nampa, have been reminding protesters to be prepared to take to the streets en masse in case of such an eventuality. Continued …

Monsoon surge raises flood risk across Thailand: 47 provinces on high alert

Swelling rainfall across Thailand, spurred by the increasing strength of a monsoon, coupled with an area of low atmospheric pressure, has compelled the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) to warn that 47 provinces could face potentially hazardous situations.

Over the next 24 hours, it predicts 60% of their areas will face heavy rain, with the severity being the most significant in the northern and northeastern regions of the country. Continued …

COVID infections falling steadily, fewer fatalities over past month

New COVID-19 infections in Thailand and other countries were steadily falling over the past month, with fewer fatalities, according to Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, public health permanent secretary.

He expressed concern, however, for people over 60 and those suffering from underlying diseases, pointing out that most of the fatalities were people over 70 and those who were not vaccinated. Continued …

Bangkok trying new tech to solve traffic problems

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched an automatic traffic-management system on four city roads in a pilot project aimed at boosting vehicle flow along the routes.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt, who presided over the launch, said the system had been installed at 13 intersections on Rama VI Road, Ratchawithi Road, Phahon Yothin Road and Praditpat Road. Continued …

Analyzing the Myanmar Crisis and Thailand’s Complicity

2,146 kilometers of landlocked demarcation is all that cuts through Myanmar and Thailand, two Southeast Asian nations that share a complicated, erstwhile rivalry that has evolved into a mutual bilateralism in the scope of current developments, with the incumbent Prayuth Chan-ocha regime cozying up to the likes of the Tatmadaw, Myanmar’s armed forces.

These two countries are nothing alike; they do not share any linguistic overlap nor do they have any cultural heritages together, and they follow drastically different models of governance. In that sense, they are not complementary to each other, but centuries of warfare and geopolitical realities have shaped a new outlook. Continued …

Thai economy booms as fiscal income beats projections, with 122B-baht surplus

The Thai economy demonstrated strong recovery and active imports as the Thai government’s net income during the first two-thirds of fiscal 2023 has surpassed projections by 122 billion baht.

Between October 2022 and May 2023, the Thai government raked in a total of 1.64 trillion baht, which is an 8% surge from the previous year’s growth rate of 4.9%. This leap also exceeded the target set by 122 billion baht. Continued …

17 Thai conglomerates make it to Forbes’ ‘Global 2000’ list

Forbes magazine has released its 20th annual ranking of the world’s top-performing conglomerates for the year 2023, with JP Morgan, the largest bank in the U.S. with US$3.7 trillion in assets, securing the first position for the first time since 2011.

Following closely behind is Saudi Aramco, the energy giant of Saudi Arabia, in second place, and three Chinese state-owned banks led by ICBC. Other notable companies in the top 10 include technology giants Alphabet (ranked 7th), Microsoft (ranked 9th), and Apple (ranked 10th). Continued …

Thailand’s real estate sector urges foreign investment boost

With an eye on boosting the economy, real estate developers and consultants are urging Thailand‘s new government to implement policies that promote foreign investment. They contend such measures will stimulate a more positive environment for overseas buyers in the property market, suggesting promotional efforts to increase awareness among foreign investors.

Artitaya Kasemlawan, head of residential sales projects at CBRE Thailand, said, “The attractiveness of Thailand as a destination for foreign buyers is unquestionable.” Continued …

Thailand unprepared as foreign investors flock back to ASEAN

Foreign investment in Thailand remains weak compared with ASEAN neighbors such as Vietnam and Malaysia, where it has recovered faster since the pandemic.

Even the 16th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention, held in Thailand over the weekend (June 24-26), saw minimal investment from foreign businesses. The Covid-19 crisis saw a severe contraction in trade and investment across the world, including foreign direct investment (FDI) in Thailand. Continued …

Exports drop 4.6% in May

Thailand’s customs-based exports in May contracted 4.6% from a year earlier, the Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday.

The reading compared with an 8% year-on-year drop forecast for May in a Reuters poll, and came after April’s 7.6% drop. Continued … 

Economic disparity in Thailand widens, agricultural sector hit hardest

The age-old struggle with economic disparity continues to cast a shadow on Thailand’s society as inequality widens, particularly in the agricultural sector, which sees roughly 6% to 8% of its populace remaining below the poverty line.

According to a recent study by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), this disparity has been fueled by multiple factors, including the move to a digital economy, an aging society, post-Covid-19 economic recovery speed, and the burning issue of climate change. Continued …

Plan to eradicate poverty proposed with 7 ‘sandbox’ provinces

A local development agency is to propose a new sandbox project in seven target provinces to the new government, with the aim of eradicating poverty in these areas by the year 2027.

During the seminar “Thailand’s poverty situation: Problems and solutions” on Monday, the Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO) said it is planning a sandbox program in 7 target provinces after more than four years of surveying the 20 poorest provinces of Thailand. Continued …

Phuket Peranakan festival dazzles, promotes sustainable tourism and local culture

In a resounding celebration of heritage and culture, over 1,000 people gathered for the Phuket Peranakan Festival‘s “Extravaganza Carnival” grand parade. The event unfolded in the vintage vicinity of Phuket Old Town Saturday evening.

The carnival, the crown jewel of the three-day extravaganza, resulted in the closure of roads, culminating in a tremendous spectacle. The festival wrapped up yesterday. Continued …

Reading the elephant manual

Photo courtesy of Dine Riedé-Hoogerdijk

July packed full of amazing festivals and events around Thailand

The Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2023, beach fun with the Amazing Ultimate Festival, Pai Jazz & Blues Fest 2023, Hua Hin Cricket Sixes, Amazing Thai Taste@Chiang Mai, Tai Lue Local Festival, Amazing Muay Thai Experience, and VERY Summer Fest 2023 music festival… there’s this and more happening in July 2023.

Here is a list of what’s on, sorted by event date: Continued …

The most popular Thai dish among Aussies revealed

Thai food is loved around the world for its mouth-watering dishes made from fresh ingredients and topped with delicious spices. But when it comes to ordering from a Thai restaurant, which dish takes the crown?

How to make vegetarian pad Thai – video

A recent poll conducted by Nine.com.au has determined what is the most popular Thai food order among Aussies. Continued …

The most hard-to-book restaurants in Bangkok, from street food to fine dining

Last week, Bangkok fine diners loudly and proudly applauded the inauguration of two Bangkok restaurants onto the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list. Surpassed in Asia only by Japan (with three entries), it became apparent that the dining scene in Thailand is only growing stronger and becoming more globally recognized.

National pride aside, this also means that Bangkok has some of the most hard-to-book restaurant tables in the world. Be it fine dining or casual street food, here are the most impossible reservations in the city. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Biden: US, allies not involved in uprising against Putin

U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday said a brief uprising by Russian mercenaries against the Kremlin is part of a struggle within the Russian system and the United States and its allies were not involved in it. “We made clear we were not involved, we had nothing to do with this,” Biden said. Continued …

Hong Kong sees over 1 million visitors during Dragon Boat Festival

Hong Kong saw over one million visitors during the three-day Dragon Boat Festival holiday that ended on Saturday, according to data from the Immigration Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government. Continued …

World’s largest hydro-solar power station at the highest altitude in Tibet

The first phase of the world’s largest hydro-solar power station at the highest altitude has been put into operation. The first phase of the Kela photovoltaic power station is located on a mountain at an altitude of 4,600 meters in Yajiang County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of southwest China’s Sichuan Province. Continued …

Jumbo problem: Sri Lanka’s battle with plastic pollution

Heart-wrenching images of revered elephants and cattle eating plastic in Sri Lanka have prompted politicians to toughen pollution laws, but skeptical conservationists warn past bans were repeatedly ignored. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s News-June 23

  • Explosion engulfs Hua Hin hotel, 500,000 THB worth of damage/
  • Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit through Sunday/
  • Common mistakes to avoid while learning Thai/
  • Healthcare staffing shortage tackled by Thai government with new strategy/
  • Overloaded Thai public health system sees exhausted doctors quit in droves/
  • Thai healthcare costs skyrocket/
  • ‘No serious quake threat to Thailand’ from major Sagaing Fault in Myanmar/
  • Algerian Man, Dressed as a Woman Arrested for visa overstay/
  • Thailand International Dog Show in Bangkok, July 6-9/
  • Durian lovers rejoice as prices plunge on surplus/
  • Economy: Examining Thailand’s Economic Revival and Investment Opportunities/Insights of five EV customer segments in Thailand/Thai village profits from hot-season tokay gecko trade exports to China/Bangkok Airways triumphs at World Airline Awards for 7th consecutive year/
  • Tourism: Thailand ranks second in global travel, Bangkok tops city list/Thai tourism-linked businesses experience booming growth amid economic recovery/Chinese tourism deterred by tourist scams in Thailand, says ATTA/World Hindu Congress to be hosted by Bangkok this year, boosting Thai tourism/
  • International: Titanic sub destroyed in ‘catastrophic implosion,’ all five aboard dead/Diabetes cases to double to 1.3 billion by 2050/US county sues oil companies for $51 billion over ‘Heat Dome’ disaster/€60 billion pledged to help Ukraine rebuild/
  • 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

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Explosion engulfs Hua Hin hotel, 500,000 THB worth of damage

Pigeons were said to have caused a sudden explosion that led to a fire engulfing a hotel room in Hua Hin, resulting in damages amounting to half a million baht.

On Thursday afternoon, Lt. Col.Pichcha Rangleuan, deputy superintendent of Hua Hin Police Station, received a report regarding a fire incident at room number 164/5-6 of Sunny House, which is located adjacent to the railway, just off Soi 70. Continued … Pigeons were said to have caused a sudden explosion that led to a fire engulfing a hotel room in Hua Hin, resulting in damages amounting to half a million baht. Continued …

Pa La U durian festival showcases Hua Hin’s finest fruit through Sunday

Hua Hin’s renowned durian cultivation hub, Pa La U, is currently hosting the highly anticipated Pa La U durian and fruit festival.

This Ban Pa La-U Fruit and Good Products Expo, which is now in its 10th year, aims to celebrate the delectable fruit and showcases a wide range of local agricultural products. Continued …

 

Common mistakes to avoid while learning Thai

Oh, the joys of learning a new language! Thai is a fascinating language, filled with unique sounds, tones, and expressions that promise to make your learning experience an exciting adventure.

But, like any language, Thai comes with its fair share of challenges and common Thai language mistakes that might catch you off guard. No worries, though! Along with our friends at ALA Language School, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common mistakes you should steer clear of when learning Thai. Continued …

Healthcare staffing shortage tackled by Thai government with new strategy

The Public Health Ministry has laid out strategies to address the ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals in the nation’s state-operated medical sector. Within the next three years, these measures aim to expand the country’s cadre of medical personnel according to current legal parameters.

Government spokesperson Anucha Buraphachaisri indicated the interventions may result in a 40% increase in doctors and over a 50% surge in nursing staff by 2026. Continued …

Overloaded Thai public health system sees exhausted doctors quit in droves

Every year, hundreds of doctors leave the government sector after struggling under huge workloads for relatively low pay and with little prospect of promotion.

The numbers exiting the public health service are significant, given that the Public Health Ministry employs just 24,469 doctors. Over the past decade, around 450 doctors have left each year, along with at least 150 who have retired from public service. Continued …

Thai healthcare costs skyrocket

We all want good health and decent public health welfare. When we fall ill, the cures are also much more effective thanks to modern medical advancements. But the soaring costs of healthcare have made it beyond most people’s grasp.

Over the past two decades, global healthcare spending has more than doubled, skyrocketing from $4.2 trillion (145.8 trillion baht) in 2000 to an astounding $8.5 trillion in 2019. Continued …

‘No serious quake threat to Thailand’ from major Sagaing Fault in Myanmar

A major active fault in Myanmar could still trigger a 7.5-magnitude earthquake in 5-10 years, but will cause no serious damage to Thailand, the Mineral Resources Department said on Thursday.

Oranuch Lorpensri, director-general of the department, said the Sagaing Fault in Myanmar is still active and it could unleash enough power to trigger an earthquake with up to 7.5 magnitude in about 5-10 years. Continued …

Algerian Man, Dressed as a Woman Arrested for visa overstay

An Algerian man was arrested in Bangkok for 251 days of overstaying his legal visa after he allegedly tried to dress as a woman in order to avoid Thai Immigration officers.

Relevant officials from the Bangkok Thai Immigration Office arrested a 38-year-old Algerian man at a housing estate in Bueng Kum. Officers found that the Algerian man was dressed as a woman before they arrested him. Continued … 

Thailand International Dog Show in Bangkok, July 6-9

Attention to dog lovers! Don’t miss this year’s “21st Thailand International Dog Show2023” at IMPACT in Bangkok. Exclusive this year is a Grooming contest, with a dressing up theme of “Dog Show Sahara” and with more than 250 vendors.

The fair will be held from July 6-9 at building 5-6 at IMPACT. Continued …

Durian lovers rejoice as prices plunge on surplus

Singaporeans love durians. And this year, the spiky and pungent fruit is in such abundance that it can be found in claw machines, giving enthusiasts a chance to catch one for just a dollar.

A surplus in major producer Malaysia has pushed prices in the city-state down to levels never seen before. Premium varieties like Musang King were selling for as cheap as S$3 ($2.24) a kilogram earlier this month. Continued …

Examining Thailand’s Economic Revival and Investment Opportunities

Thailand’s GDP outlook is expected to grow between 2.7%-3.6% in 2023, an increase from 2.6% in 2022. Economic growth will be boosted by a recovering tourism industry and improving private consumption.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy was in a severe recession in 2020 due to the pandemic. GDP fell by 6.1% in that year, which represented Thailand’s largest contraction since the Asian financial crisis. Continued …

Insights of five EV customer segments in Thailand

Krungsri Auto, a leader in automotive finance under Bank of Ayudhya PCL., unveiled insights into five electric vehicle (EV) customer segments based on the consolidated data of its current EV loan portfolio, forecasting EV market growth, with potentials for automotive financing providers in responding to EV users’ needs and taping into their lifestyle in all dimensions. Insights of five EV customer segments gathered from real EV finance user behaviors are:

Segment 1 – A stylish executive with a stable income

This group is the early adopter of EVs, making up the largest proportion of current EV owners. An EV is their second car. They purchase a car at medium to high prices with high down payment and short-term loans. They value design and car brands and look for comprehensive products and services with financial advisers who can help make arrangements easy and hassle-free. Continued …

Thai village profits from hot-season tokay gecko trade exports to China

A Thai village is gaining lucrative income from capturing and processing tokay geckoes, generating hundreds of thousands of baht (US$2,860) per month during the hot season. In the northeast province of Nakhon Phanom, villagers from Ban Tal in Nah Wah district are seizing the opportunity to capture the amphibians that thrive in the warm weather.

Ban Tal Thai village, known as the mysterious village of unique seasonal occupations, has been relying on this profitable tokay gecko trade for over 30 years. Each hot season, from March to July, villagers capture geckoes and sell them to processing groups. The tokay geckoes are then dried and exported to China, where they are believed to be an ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine. Continued …

Bangkok Airways triumphs at World Airline Awards for 7th consecutive year

The World Airline Awards 2023 ceremony saw Bangkok Airways Public Co. retaining its resplendent position under the spotlight. The prestigious accolades of “The World’s Best Regional Airline” and “The Best Regional Airline in Asia” were pinned on this airline, marking its seventh year of triumph.

The presentation took place at the Paris Air Show, where Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, the airline’s president, and other management personnel, received the honors. Continued …

Thailand ranks second in global travel, Bangkok tops city list

Thailand tourism continues to thrive, as online travel platform Agoda recently revealed that the country holds the title of the second most popular destination for travelers worldwide, with Bangkok topping the list of favorite cities for global travelers.

Outperforming Thailand, Japan emerged as the leading destination for tourists during the same period. Early reopening of the country’s borders has undoubtedly contributed to Thailand’s tourism sector rebounding at a faster rate compared to other nations. Continued …

Thai tourism-linked businesses experience booming growth amid economic recovery

Amid escalating tourist arrivals and robust economic recovery, Thai tourism-associated enterprises have been reaping lucrative rewards, particularly in the fields of foreign exchange, travel agencies, tour guides, dining establishments, and the accommodation industry.

Such industries have experienced impressive growth within the initial five months of this year, as revealed by data garnered through the Business Development Department of the Commerce Ministry. Continued …

Chinese tourism deterred by tourist scams in Thailand, says ATTA

Fear of being conned by tourist scams poses a bigger concern to prospective Chinese tourists than Thailand’s political ambiguity, advises the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA). Given a sluggish economic recovery on the mainland, the Chinese tourism market could slightly be affected.

Calling for tougher safety measures, ATTA President, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn indicated that improving the country’s image and reassurances over touristic scams would encourage Chinese travelers. He also emphasized the necessity to uplift the quality of services provided in the tourism sector to boost Chinese tourism. Continued …

World Hindu Congress to be hosted by Bangkok this year, boosting Thai tourism

As a first, Bangkok is set to host the World Hindu Congress (WHC), set to take place from Nov. 24 to 26. Around 3,000 Hindus hailing from 60 different countries are anticipated to grace the event chaired by Susheel Kumar Saraff.

Themed “Jayasya Aayatnam Dharmah” or “Dharma,” the Abode of Victory,” the congress aims to celebrate the virtues of the religion and the triumphant strides of Hindus worldwide. Continued …

Titanic sub destroyed in ‘catastrophic implosion,’ all five aboard dead

A deep-sea submersible carrying five people on a voyage to the century-old wreck of the Titanic was found in pieces from a “catastrophic implosion” that killed everyone aboard, the U.S. Coast Guard said on Thursday, ending a multinational five-day search for the vessel. Continued …

Diabetes cases to double to 1.3 billion by 2050

The number of people suffering from diabetes worldwide will more than double to 1.3billion by 2050, driven by structural racism and gaping inequality between countries, new research predicted today. Continued …

US county sues oil companies for $51 billion over ‘Heat Dome’ disaster

A county in the northwestern state of Oregon on Thursday filed a lawsuit against major fossil fuel companies seeking more than $51 billion over the 2021 “Heat Dome,” one of the United States’ deadliest weather-related disasters. Continued …

€60 billion pledged to help Ukraine rebuild

Foreign donors have pledged €60 billion (US$66 billion) of new financial support for Ukraine, the United Kingdom said Thursday, as an international conference aimed at funding the war-ravaged country’s reconstruction closed. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-June 14

  • So where are the aliens hiding in Hua Hin?
  • Hua Hin Beach Life 2023 festival in Khao Takiab, July 21-23/
  • Beer Truck Overturns in Nakhon Pathom: Over 2,500 Cases Lost/
  • Pita Is Confident In ITV Case; Anutin, Prawit Deny Being Involved/
  • Egg Price Hike Hits Low-Income People; Food Vendors Try to Cope/
  • Pattaya Finally Removing Unsightly Electrical Wires off Walking Street/
  • Nearly 6,400 people laid low in Phuket by digestive disease outbreak/
  • Thailand’s National Animal Is Pushing Back against Habitat Loss/
  • Narathiwat locals go gold hunting in canals for additional income/
  • Economy: Parsing the economic impact of the parched season/Plan to relocate factories to industrial estates on track/
  • Thailand Experience: Ten waterfalls worth visiting during the rainy season/Surin’s connection to the ancient Khmer Empire/
  • International: Asia’s gamblers cheer wave of legalization/Ukraine advances in counteroffensive, NATO pledges support/Influencers overtaking journalists as news source/Trump pleads not guilty/
  • 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

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So where are the aliens hiding in Hua Hin?

It was a balmy summer evening’s dusk in Hua Hin, the seaside resort town south of Bangkok. I was sipping a vodka and tonic on the sea-facing porch of a quiet local hotel, swatting mosquitoes and looking out into the gloom. The air-quality index was good, as was visibility, and I recognized many constellations. Then the stars began to move.

First, one slid to the left and veered right, gaining speed and distance until it was far out to sea. Meanwhile, three more flew in from left field, moving in a tight V formation. A sharp laser-like beam of light emanated from the foremost light. More flew in, some projecting lights, others with blinking signals of different colors. Continued …

Beer Truck Overturns in Nakhon Pathom: Over 2,500 Cases Lost

Traffic in Nakhon Pathom came to a halt yesterday when a beer-laden tractor-trailer overturned on the Malai Maen road near Nong Ngu Lueam village, causing widespread congestion and scattering its cargo across the carriageway.

The trailer, registered in Prachuap Khiri Khan, was carrying a full load of beer when it tipped over, spilling approximately 2,520 cases of beer — worth at least 1 million baht — across the inbound lane to Nakhon Pathom city. Continued … 

Pita Is Confident In ITV Case; Anutin, Prawit Deny Being Involved

Move Forward Party PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat expressed confidence on Tuesday that he will survive the ITV share ownership scrutiny because he and his party have more information to fight against the allegation.

Pita was also asked about another possible move where 50 MPs could force the voting for the new PM to be deferred, citing Pita’s alleged lacking of qualifications. He said he’ll have to look into the legal details on the matter first. Continued … 

Egg Price Hike Hits Low-Income People; Food Vendors Try to Cope

Thai low-income people face rising costs of living as the price of eggs increases, which has a significant impact on their lives, as an egg is a basic protein for low-income people.

Chicken farms in several provinces have already increased their retail prices from 3.60 baht per egg, on May 15, to 3.80 baht per egg. The price is also expected to rise to 4 baht per egg soon. Continued … 

Pattaya Finally Removing Unsightly Electrical Wires off Walking Street

The unsightly mess of electrical wires above Pattaya Walking Street are finally being dismantled in response to completion of an underground cable installation project.

The underground cable project, which is part of the city’s plan to improve the street’s scenery, has been carried out off and on over the past few years and caused a lot of inconvenience to tourists and residents alike. Continued …

Nearly 6,400 people laid low in Phuket by digestive disease outbreak

A viral outbreak targeting the digestive system has left near 6,400 people fighting diarrhea in Phuket province in the last week.

Dr. Kusak Kukiattikul from Phuket’s public health said on Tuesday that the number of patients were the highest on June 8, adding that both Thai and foreigners had developed symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fever. Continued …

Thailand’s National Animal Is Pushing Back against Habitat Loss

From her yard, she can see the place where it happened. The spot out back by the eucalyptus trees that she ran to, and immediately understood what had happened – the stillness, the odd calm that hung over the site of the calamity.

Piyawan Daonan is standing in her driveway in Tha Thakiap, a district in the Thai province of Chachoengsao. The 42-year-old, slender mother of two can only fall asleep these days with the help of medication – a restless slumber punctuated by nightmares – ever since she became a widow. Without looking herself, she points to the place, just a couple hundred meters away, where her husband was trampled to death by an elephant. Continued …

Narathiwat locals go gold hunting in canals for additional income

Apart from rubber and fruit farming, the residents of Phukhao Thong community in Sukhirin district of Narathiwat province also pan for gold in the canals to generate income.

A 66-year-old Phukhao Thong community resident, Saengarun Chanhom, said on Tuesday that locals can pan for gold throughout the year as they were not allowed to use machines for the activity. Continued …

Parsing the economic impact of the parched season

The effects of the El Niño weather pattern are becoming increasingly evident with the persistence of hot, dry weather and high temperatures despite the official start of the rainy season on May 22, as announced by the Meteorological Department.

The department said the total rainfall throughout the country during the rainy season will be lower this year than in 2022, roughly 5% below the annual average. This anticipated decrease in rainfall may result in prolonged dry spells across numerous regions, leading to potential water shortages. Continued …

Plan to relocate factories to industrial estates on track

The Industry Ministry is planning to push domestic manufacturers to relocate their factories to industrial estates to enhance business operations and minimize the environmental impact caused by factories.

“We want to see entrepreneurs move their manufacturing bases to industrial zones, be they the industrial estates under the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) or the industrial parks under the Department of Industrial Works,” Nattapol Rangsitpol, the Industry Ministry’s permanent secretary, said on Monday. Continued …

Ten waterfalls worth visiting during the rainy season

The rainy season is an ideal time to visit Thailand’s waterfalls, because they are at their most beautiful.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has recommended 10 such waterfalls located in national parks across the country. These include: Continued …

Surin’s connection to the ancient Khmer Empire

Surin is a province located in northeastern Thailand, known as Isaan. It is situated about 450 kilometers northeast of Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand. Surin is famous for its rich cultural heritage, traditional festivals, and unique attractions.

One of the most prominent features of Surin is its connection to the ancient Khmer Empire. The province is home to several Khmer historical sites and ruins, such as the Prasat Sikhoraphum and Prasat Ta Muen temples. These structures showcase the architectural brilliance and influence of the Khmer civilization that once thrived in the region. Continued …

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Asia’s gamblers cheer wave of legalization

In a sea change for the traditionally conservative region, some of the biggest tourism spots in Asia and the Middle East are moving toward building or allowing their first casinos, raising competitive pressure on existing hubs like Macau. Continued …

Ukraine advances in counteroffensive, NATO pledges support

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the progress of his troops as they advance near the city of Bakhmut in the east and on the southern front. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has also acknowledged Ukraine’s progress in its counteroffensive against Russia, promising increased support from NATO leaders in their upcoming meeting. Continued …

Influencers overtaking journalists as news source

TikTok influencers and celebrities are increasingly taking over from journalists as the main source of news for young people, according to a report published Wednesday by the Britain-based Reuters Institute. Continued …

Trump pleads not guilty

The indictment of Donald Trump unfolded in two distinct arenas on Tuesday afternoon – a federal courtroom in Florida and the realm of public opinion. Within the Miami courthouse, Trump and his legal representatives maintained a composed demeanor. A lawyer for the former president informed the judge that Trump was pleading not guilty to all charges. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

UPDATED: Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

 

hua hin, phuket, solar, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news-June 13

  • Rainy season? No rain forecast for most of Thailand in July/
  • Pita inches closer to PM post/
  • PM pushes ambitious land bridge project in South/
  • British expat’s 1,050km charity walk aims to raise 1M baht for abused children/
  • Top Thai military brass visits Beijing/
  • Economy: AIS faces hurdles in bid to buy 3BB/Biomass power giant turns its sights to solar energy/Kraft Heinz’s Journey into Thailand’s Culinary Wonderland/Thai Durian on the Upswing: Export Prices to China at Record/
  • Tourism: End of travel subsidy scheme takes a toll on Thai hotel occupancy/Thailand records 11.4M foreign tourists/
  • Thailand Experience: Buffets In Thailand Look So Different From The Ones In America/Phuket’s Old Town is a must-visit on Thailand’s largest island/
  • International: Ukraine says seven villages retaken in ‘tough’ offensive/
  • 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

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Click on image above for more information, or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

Rainy season? No rain forecast for most of Thailand in July

Despite the fact that it is now the rainy season in Thailand, no rain is forecast for most of July, returning in August. The Royal Irrigation Department has instructed its officials to adjust their water-management plans to ensure optimum use of water and to maintain as much as possible in the reservoirs.

According to Thaweesak Thanadachopol, deputy director-general of the Royal Irrigation Department, the total volume of water in Thailand’s four main reservoirs, namely behind the Bhumibol, Pasak Jolasid, Sirikit and Kwae Noi Bumrung Dan dams, is at 45% of full capacity, or 11.301 billion cubic meters, with only 15% at Pasak Jolasid. Continued …

Pita inches closer to PM post

Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid to become prime minister moved a step closer to reality on Monday after the chairman of a recent meeting of iTV shareholders said the media company is currently not operating pending a legal case.

As a result, Pita could be spared from legal wrangles that could lead to him being disqualified as an MP if it is proven that the media company has shut down. Continued …

PM pushes ambitious land bridge project in South

Caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha wants to expand transportation infrastructure to enhance the economic development of the southern region, government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said on Sunday. This includes connecting transportation between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, he added.

This project is intended to further enhance the advantages of Thailand’s geographic location in Southeast Asia, which is conducive to transportation and trade. Relevant agencies have been instructed to study and develop the southern land bridge project as part of the basic infrastructure development efforts to integrate seamless transportation service between the two seaports in Ranong and Chumphon provinces. Continued …

British expat’s 1,050km charity walk aims to raise 1M baht for abused children

James Lee Valentine, a 59-year-old British expat, has demonstrated the power of determination and charity by completing a 1,050km walk from Pattaya to Phuket in Thailand.

The walk aimed to raise 1 million baht for Take Care Kids, a children’s foundation based in Pattaya that supports underprivileged children who have suffered abuse. Continued …

Top Thai military brass visits Beijing

Royal Thai Army Commander-in-Chief General Narongpan Jitkaewthae is in China this week at the invitation of China’s Defense Ministry to discuss military cooperation between the two countries, with the aim of enhancing peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region.

This is the first visit to China by the Thai army chief, who left Bangkok on June 8 and will return on June 16. Continued …

AIS faces hurdles in bid to buy 3BB

The ongoing takeover of fixed broadband service 3BB by Advanced Info Service (AIS) may face tough consumer remedies from the telecom regulator because of the dominant position of their combined market share.

Rival True Corp. reported to the Stock Exchange of Thailand that in the first quarter this year it had 3.84 million household subscribers. That figure accounts for 31.5% of the fixed broadband market share, said Pisut Ngamvijitvong, senior equity research analyst at Kasikorn Securities (KS). Continued …

Biomass power giant turns its sights to solar energy

After seeing a big jump in revenue this year, biomass power producer National Power Supply (NPS) is all set to establish the country’s largest private floating solar farm with a capacity of 150 megawatts capacity.

The company enjoyed a 24.4% jump in revenue to 5.64 billion baht in the first quarter of 2023 over the same period last year, NPS Executive Director Yothin Dumnernchanvanit said on Monday. Continued …

Kraft Heinz’s Journey into Thailand’s Culinary Wonderland

Here’s a look at how Kraft Heinz caters to Thailand’s unique tastes by adapting its product portfolio and embracing local ingredients. We also discover their commitment to sustainability, food safety, and quality control, as they drive culinary innovation in the evolving food service landscape of Thailand. Video

Thai Durian on the Upswing: Export Prices to China at Record

Despite the impact of the climate on Thai durian production this year, sales of durian produced in the east reached a record high, which could serve as a model for farmers and exporters in the south of Thailand when the annual harvest begins on June 10 and continues through October.

Nuttakrit Oranhirunrak, vice president of the Thai-Chinese Agribusiness Assn. in Chanthaburi Province, said Thailand is expected to export more durian to China than in other years. From the start of the harvest season until June 10, a total of 33,000 containers of durian were shipped to China. The current figure is already much higher than that of three years ago, which was 15,000 containers. Continued …

End of travel subsidy scheme takes a toll on Thai hotel occupancy

Hotel occupancy rates in Thailand plunged to below 50% during the period May to June, an immediate fallout of the termination of the government’s ”Let Us Travel Together” phase 5 campaign in April.

The Thai Hotels Assn. (THA) predicted that the overall hotel occupancy rate in Thailand for the month of June would be less than 50% after experiencing a full-scale slowdown in both the domestic and international markets. Continued …

Thailand records 11.4M foreign tourists

Thailand received 11.4 million foreign tourist arrivals from January to June 11, and saw spending of 472 billion baht (US$13.67 billion), the Ministry of Tourism and Sports said in a statement today.

The tourist numbers surpassed the 11.15 million in the whole of 2022. Continued …

Buffets In Thailand Look So Different From The Ones In America

Navigating your way around an unfamiliar country can be pretty daunting for some world travelers. Yet, for others, it’s an exciting opportunity to experience an unfamiliar culture.

Video

For TikTok user Tom from Texas, adventuring his way through Thailand’s buffet scene was a bit of both. He quickly discovered that he had a lot to learn upon visiting a hot pot-style buffet during his trip. Buffets in Thailand are quite different than those in America. Continued …

A visit to Phuket’s Old Town

Phuket’s Old Town is a must-visit on Thailand’s largest island. A beautiful small town lined with colorful old shophouses, it has stunning architecture and street art, plus great restaurants, bars and cafes.

Phuket’s Old Town is toward the south. Many visitors to the island like to stay close to the beaches and, unfortunately, miss out on this stunning area. Continued …

Ukraine says seven villages retaken in ‘tough’ offensive

Ukraine on Monday said it had retaken seven villages and made small gains in a “tough” counter-offensive against Russian forces that France said could last months. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

UPDATED: Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

baht, bangkok, climate change, hua hin, immigration, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-June 5

  • UK crime boss living in Hua Hin finally jailed after five years on the run/
  • Hua Hin Marathon this Saturday/
  • Move Forward slams holiday booze ban/
  • Pita promises same-sex marriage at 50,000-strong Pride parade/
  • Giant centipede on your wall?/
  • Chinese man jailed 33 years for pushing pregnant wife off cliff in Thailand/
  • Economy: Baht still volatile but interest rates steady/Private sector fears Fed interest rates hike may spark recession/Thai Banks Starting to Require Facial Recognition for High-Value Transactions/Thailand’s electric dreams and its impact on Oil Fuel Fund/
  • Tourism: 4 million tourists, 173,000 foreigners, visited Prachuap Khiri Khan in Q1/Airlines bask in sky-high fares while airports stay stuck/UNESCO recognizes five creative cities in Thailand/Phuket reports rapid kickoff for tourism but a lapse on the way/Where to stay in Phuket/’I found paradise, and within 14 years it was destroyed’/
  • Thailand Experience: The other side of paradise/Thai border town Sangkhlaburi has mix of country’s ethnic groups, food, culture and religions/
  • International: Signal failure likely cause in India’s deadliest accident/Ukrainian families return to frontline towns despite Russian threat/Saudi Arabia to reduce oil output to shore up prices/Pill halves risk of death in type of lung cancer/How chocolate could counter climate change/
  • 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

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UK crime boss living in Hua Hin finally jailed after five years on the run

A British crime boss who only has one leg has been jailed after he was finally extradited from Thailand after five years on the run. Richard Wakeling, originally from Essex, was tried and found guilty of trying to import £8 million worth of liquid amphetamine into the UK in 2016.

He’d been living in the seaside town of Hua Hin, and was in possession of a passport with a different identity when he was caught by the Thai police in Bangkok. Continued …

Move Forward slams holiday booze ban

The ban on the sales of alcoholic beverages during Buddhist holidays has sparked a heated debate between advocates and critics of the law — including the Move Forward Party, which is campaigning for the end of the ban.

MFP key figures have voiced their opposition to the ban, calling it an unnecessary restriction on individual freedom. Continued …

Pita promises same-sex marriage at 50,000-strong Pride parade

The frontrunner to be Thailand’s next prime minister joined a Pride parade in the capital on Sunday, promising to pass a law that would allow same-sex marriage and gender identity rights if he becomes premier.

Thousands of LGBTQ+ people, their allies and political leaders marched through central Bangkok, marking Pride month and promoting gender equality in the second official Pride parade to be held in the country. Continued …

Giant centipede on your wall?

A giant centipede was videoed climbing up a residential wall, leaving viewers intrigued and startled. The clip, posted by TikTok user @paphatsanat, has accumulated over 6 million views since it was uploaded on social media. the centipede, notably larger and longer than usual, can be seen climbing on the side of a house. Onlookers might shiver at the sight, as the normal size of a centipede is approximately no bigger than a human hand, while this one appears visibly larger and more menacing. (thethaiger.com)

Chinese man jailed 33 years for pushing pregnant wife off cliff in Thailand

A Chinese man who pushed his pregnant wife off a cliff four years ago has been sentenced to 33 years and four months’ jail by Thailand’s highest court.

The man, whose surname is Yu, committed the crime at the Pha Taem National Park in northeast Thailand in June 2019. Continued … 

Baht still volatile but interest rates steady

The Bank of Thailand is monitoring the Thai baht for the coming week, which is expected to fluctuate between 34.40 and 35 baht per U.S. Dollar.

The baht is showing a volatile trend, and attention is focusing on the U.S. services sector index, export volumes, and the direction of the Chinese stock market. Krungsri Bank projects local interest rates will remain mostly stable until the end of this year. Continued …

Private sector fears Fed interest rates hike may spark recession

The Thai Chamber of Commerce is concerned about rising interest rates, which are impacting the global money and capital markets and having a negative effect on Thai exports as the purchasing power of U.S. consumers has declined.

Wisit Limluecha, vice chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Processed Food and Future Food Committee (PFC) of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), said the U.S. Senate’s approval of the draft bill to lift the U.S. debt ceiling allows the U.S. government the opportunity to borrow money and to introduce more economic stimulus measures if necessary. Continued …

Thai Banks Starting to Require Facial Recognition for High-Value Transactions

Financial institutions in Thailand have begun mandating facial recognition for customers conducting high-value transactions. The move, aimed at reducing fraudulent activities and scams, is expected to provide extra security for clients.

Deputy government spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul announced that all commercial and government banks will implement this new security measure. Starting from July, customers transacting 50,000 baht or more via mobile banking, or whose transactions exceed a daily limit of 200,000 baht, will be required to verify their identities via facial-recognition systems. Continued …

Thailand’s electric dreams and its impact on Oil Fuel Fund

Thailand’s transition to electric vehicles (EV) as part of its clean energy policies is presenting a tough challenge for the Oil Fuel Fund and its role in maintaining stable domestic prices.

The Oil Fuel Fund has been working hard to keep the oil prices in the country stable, especially after the Russia-Ukraine war sparked severe global fluctuations in oil prices. Continued …

4 million tourists, 173,000 foreigners, visited Prachuap Khiri Khan in Q1

The tourism industry in Prachuap Khiri Khan province has experienced an increase in visitor numbers during the first quarter of 2023, according to the latest data released by the Department of Tourism and Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

The figures indicate a boost to the local economy and underscore the province’s continued popularity, particularly among domestic tourists but also increasing numbers of foreign tourists. Continued … 

Airlines bask in sky-high fares while airports stay stuck

Soaring ticket prices are lining the pockets of the world’s biggest airlines, providing balm to the economic wounds suffered during the travel lockdowns of Covid-19. But as the industry takes off, airports say they’ve been forgotten at the gate.

Flying will be far more expensive this (northern) summer, according to corporate travel manager American Express Global Business Travel, which analyzed tens of thousands of client transactions on international flights to and from Asian destinations. A typical New York-to-Hong Kong flight in economy class cost more than twice as much this year as in 2019, and almost a third more than last year. Continued …

UNESCO recognizes five creative cities in Thailand

UNESCO has recognized five creative cities in Thailand, for gastronomy, crafts, folk arts and design, according to Anucha Burapachaisri, spokesman for the government.

Phuket was first granted the UNESCO creative city of gastronomy status in 2015, for its traditional food varieties,which have been passed down from one generation to another. The local food industry earns the island province an estimated US$3.6 billion in revenue each year, said Anucha. Continued …

Phuket reports rapid kickoff for tourism but a lapse on the way

Phuket experienced a significant influx of international tourists in the first five months of 2023, with over 6 million arrivals. Although the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Phuket office describes them as “tourists”, the number includes all foreign arrivals for whatever reason.

Among them, Russians constituted the largest number of arrivals, followed by Chinese, Indians, Australians and Kazakhs. Lertchai Wangtrakuldee, the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Phuket office says that the arrival of these tourists injected at least 196 billion baht into the local economy during this period. Continued …

Where to stay in Phuket

Phuket, a large island on Thailand’s west coast, is one of the country’s most popular tourist spots thanks to its white sandy beaches, clear waters and island-hopping opportunities. Because of its size, there is a huge variety of places to stay and areas to choose from.

Phuket’s airport is toward the north of the island, while some of the most popular places to stay in Phuket are on the southern or western beaches, which can take around an hour to reach by car, so planning where to stay in Phuket and how to get there is essential. Continued …

‘I found paradise, and within 14 years it was destroyed’

The self-proclaimed “first tourist” to have visited Koh Phangan in Thailand has spoken of his guilt after sharing details of the pristine island, which led to its eventual ruin and notoriety as a trash-strewn party spot.

In 1979 – like Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Richard in the 2000 hit movie The Beach – Costas Christ was a 20-something backpacker from the U.S., and, eager to get off the beaten track he persuaded a fisherman to take him to a secret spot only locals knew about. That spot was Koh Phangan. Continued …

Click on image above or email us at aim@hhexpatnews.com

The other side of paradise

An hour’s drive from Phuket’s Pa Tong Beach, Bang Rong seems to be an ocean apart from its western counterpart. Located on the east coast, it doesn’t have a white sandy beach. Luxury beach clubs, Sunday brunch with free-flow sparkling wine and a pampering spa are most definitely not on its menu.

“Bang Rong has long served as a pier to Koh Yao and islands further out in Phang Nga Bay. This place, however, has never been a destination in its own right,” says local guide Prasert. “Those who came here earlier were either on their way to other places or looking for mangrove charcoal.” Continued …

Thai border town of Sangkhlaburi has mix of country’s ethnic groups, food, culture and religions

The bus drops me next to a stall at which a young man is placing pieces of red and white betel nut on green leaves smeared with a white paste. Once the masala has been sprinkled, the leaves are folded and taped up in plastic. The men waiting in the long queue for their snack are dressed in checked Burmese longyis.

Betel nut – the chewing of which produces a mild stimulant effect, and shockingly red teeth – is popular in Myanmar. But this is not Myanmar – I am in Sangkhlaburi, a town in western Thailand close to the border and known for its mix of ethnic groups. Continued …

Signal failure likely cause in India’s deadliest accident

India’s Railway Board has suggested that the Central Bureau of Investigation take over the inquiry into Friday’s train collision in Odisha, which claimed the lives of at least 275 people and injured nearly 1,200. The crash, which occurred near the Balasore district, is the deadliest in India in over two decades. As rescue operations concluded on Sunday, signal failure has emerged as the probable cause of the accident. Continued …

Ukrainian families return to frontline towns despite Russian threat

In the eastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro, the train station continues to operate despite Russia’s ongoing invasion. Millions of people depend on these trains, with many passengers traveling to the last stop before the eastern front line. Among them are soldiers and young families returning to their homes. Continued …

Saudi Arabia to reduce oil output to shore up prices

Oil-producing nations have agreed to extend production cuts in an effort to support struggling prices. Saudi Arabia announced its intention to reduce output by one million barrels per day (bpd) in July, while Opec+ stated that targets would decrease by an additional 1.4 million bpd from 2024. Opec+ represents approximately 40% of global crude oil production, and its decisions significantly influence oil prices. Continued …

Pill halves risk of death in type of lung cancer

A pill has been shown to halve the risk of death from a certain type of lung cancer when taken daily after surgery to remove the tumor, according to clinical trial results presented on Sunday. Continued …

How chocolate could counter climate change

At a red-brick factory in the German port city of Hamburg, cocoa bean shells go in one end, and out the other comes an amazing black powder with the potential to counter climate change. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

UPDATED: Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, cha am, climate change, covid, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-May 22

  • Wild Animal Rescue Network conference June 13-15 at the Avani +/
  • Garbage traps installed in Thap Sakae/
  • 14 dead macaques found during raid on house in Cha Am/
  • Thailand faces sizzling heat, heavy rain, and health warnings/
  • El Niño could return in 2023; what that means for the world’s weather/
  • Private Sector ‘Confident Senators Will Back Pita For PM’/
  • Experts call for uniform air quality indicator in ASEAN/
  • Is honey good for you?/
  • Covid-19 cases rise, related deaths up/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Property developers call for a gradual increase in the minimum wage/Sudden wage hike ‘may lead to job losses’/Jobless rate lowest in 3 years as tourism rebounds/Thailand’s first data center powered by renewable energy open for business/
  • Tourism: ‘Not Thailand anymore’: Russians flocking to Phuket — not all is well in paradise/Thailand’s Tham Luang Cave reopens for tourists in July/Khon Kaen Opens ‘Blue Lagoon’ Tourist Destination/US TV late-night star Conan O’Brien to feature Bangkok in HBO travel show/Phuket som tam restaurant returns 200,000 baht to European tourist/
  • Thailand Experience: Fish Sauce To Palm Sugar; A Concise Guide To Essential Thai Ingredients/Thai Street Food Food Tour of Bangkok: Video/8 unique experiences in Phuket/
  • International: G7 stiffens resolve to thwart Russia, engage warily with China/Spacex Sends Saudi Astronauts, Including Nation’s 1st Woman In Space/Investigation Begins On Two Ancient Shipwrecks In South China Sea/Are cryptocurrencies making a comeback?/German police say probing suspected poisoning of Russian exiles/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Wild Animal Rescue Network conference June 13-15 at the Avani +

Garbage traps installed in Thap Sakae

Garbage traps were installed at Hat Wanakorn National Park in Thap Sakae on Friday in a bid to combat marine debris and sea pollution.

The nets have been installed in an area spanning 38 meters in locations specifically chosen to trap and intercept the most amount of litter. Continued …

14 dead macaques found during raid on house in Cha Am

Provincial wildlife protection authorities discovered the bodies of 14 dead macaques during a raid carried out at a house in Cha Am last Thursday.

Rescued from the property were another five macaques, who were alive but had been confined to distressing conditions, devoid of food and water. The operation was led by Prawet Sunthornthai, the director of the local wildlife conservation team, following a tip-off from a concerned neighbor. Continued …

Thailand faces sizzling heat, heavy rain, and health warnings

The Meteorological Department has issued a weather forecast for the next 24 hours, warning that the northern parts of Thailand may experience scorching temperatures with partly cloudy skies during the daytime. Some areas may experience heavy rain and thunderstorms. Residents are encouraged to take care of their health due to the intense heat.

Meanwhile, the westerly winds blowing across the Andaman Sea, southern Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand are likely to trigger heavy rainfall in some parts of the western south coast. Continued … 

El Niño could return in 2023; what that means for the world’s weather

An El Niño appears to be forming along the equato  off the west coast of South America in the Pacific Ocean. That could have a big effect on the weather around the world.

For three years now, La Niña was large and in charge, but the La Niña ended, and now warmer water temperatures signal an El Niño probably is forming. Continued …

Private Sector ‘Confident Senators Will Back Pita For PM’

The head of Thai Condominium Assn., Peerapong Jaroon-ek, said yesterday the private sector is certain senators would definitely endorse Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat for prime minister, as they would not dare oppose voters who gave his party a huge victory, with Pheu Thai Party coming second.

Peerapong, who is also CEO of Origin Plc, also foresees economic and social improvement after the new government is formed, with this boosting confidence among both Thai and foreign investors. Continued …

Experts call for uniform air quality indicator in ASEAN

The need for a common indicator to track air quality in Southeast Asia has become more urgent, with drier weather conditions and the likelihood of the warmer El Nino weather phenomenon developing in the coming months.

This call from experts comes as Singapore is set to host talks from June 7 to 8 with ASEAN members Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand to develop a second road map for transboundary haze cooperation. Continued …

Is honey good for you?

Bees are, well, the bee’s knees. They are master pollinators. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, these busy pollinators “contribute to 35 percent of the world’s total crop production, pollinating 87 of 115 leading food crops worldwide.”

And, they create honey – a sweet, sticky, natural substance that they make as food for themselves. It also provides all kinds of benefits for humans. Sweet! Continued …

Covid-19 cases rise, related deaths up

The number of Covid-19 inpatients continued to increase and fatalities also rose over the past week, when schools reopened, the Department of Disease Control reported today.

The department recorded 2,632 Covid-19 inpatients from May 14 to May 20, up about 12% from 2,356 cases between May 7 and May 13. Continued …

Property developers call for a gradual increase in the minimum wage

Executives in the Thai property sector on Saturday called for the new government to be formed as quickly and smoothly as possible, and advised it to raise the minimum wage gradually to prevent a sudden surge in costs.

Worawut Kanchanakul, president of residential developer W House, said the new government should increase the minimum wage gradually, so entrepreneurs will be able to cope with rising construction costs. Continued …

Sudden wage hike ‘may lead to job losses’

The Move Forward Party (MFP) should let Pheu Thai handle the country’s economic policy, business leaders said, warning that raising wages too high and too fast could lead to job losses due to workers being replaced by machines.

Pratheep Watcharachokkasem, deputy chair of the United Chinese Clans Assn. of Thailand, said he had written to MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat. Continued …

Jobless rate lowest in 3 years as tourism rebounds

Thailand’s unemployment rate hit a three-year low in the first quarter, the state planning agency said today, declining to 1.05% from 1.15% in the last three months of 2022, as recovery in the crucial tourism industry strengthened.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy grew faster than expected in the first quarter, driven by the continued pickup in the travel sector, a key source of jobs that was decimated by the pandemic. Continued …

Thailand’s first data center powered by renewable energy open for business

UK-based Telehouse opened its first data center in Thailand on Friday, saying it will provide the best ecosystem for all internet-related customers in the country, while also meeting Thailand’s sustainability needs.

It will be Thailand’s first data center entirely powered by renewable energy, said Telehouse Thailand Managing Director Ken Miyashita. The new 2.5-billion-baht data center will be a safe and reliable hub of connection in Bangkok and the Southeast Asia region, Miyashita said at the inaugural ceremony for the data center. Continued …

‘Not Thailand anymore’: Russians flocking to Phuket — not all is well in paradise

It is no wonder that Russians facing travel restrictions to most of the rest of the world are flocking to Thailand. With its fine white sands, stunning landscapes and rich culture, “the land of a thousand smiles” has much to offer paradise seekers, never mind those fleeing a tightening autocracy, economic downturn and war.

The Thai island of Phuket expects to welcome one million Russians this year — the biggest group of foreign visitors by far — according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Some are escaping the dim of winter. Some are dodging the draft. Others are buying local property as a ticket to a new life. Continued …

Thailand’s Tham Luang Cave reopens for tourists in July

Safety measures are being implemented ahead of the Tham Luang Cave site’s reopening in July, as announced by Thailand‘s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

The cave gained international attention in 2018 when 12 young Wild Boars football players and their coach were trapped inside for 18 days due to flooding before being successfully rescued. Continued …

Khon Kaen Opens ‘Blue Lagoon’ Tourist Destination

Khon Kaen has inaugurated “Blue Lagoon,” a new tourist attraction featuring an emerald-green quarry surrounded by expansive limestone hills, spanning over 100 acres.

Located in Na Fai subdistrict, Phu Pha Man District, Khon Kaen, also known as the Nong Haeo-Song Khon area, Phu Pha Man District, Khon Kaen, this natural quarry has rapidly gained popularity among travelers. The sight of the ancient green quarry, glistening under the midday sun, has earned it the esteemed title of Khon Kaen’s stunning and novel “Blue Lagoon.” Continued …

US TV late-night star Conan O’Brien to feature Bangkok in HBO travel show

Former U.S. late-night talk show host Conan O’Brien is getting ready to release a show on Bangkok that is due to air on HBO Max, the popular U.S.-based streaming TV service, in the coming year as part of his “Conan Without Borders” series.

One of America’s longest-running late-night talk show hosts has been working in recent weeks in Bangkok with a broadcast understood to be in the pipeline promoting the world’s most visited city. Continued …

Phuket som tam restaurant returns 200,000 baht to European tourist

A European tourist was reunited with his bag containing money and assets worth 200,000 baht yesterday thanks to the honest owner of a som tam restaurant in Phuket.

The restaurant, Som Tam Yam 3 Aow, posted photos of the smiling tourist with a big stash of cash on Facebook with the caption, “From the incident where a customer had forgotten a bag at the shop yesterday containing cash and assets worth almost 200,000 baht.” Continued …

Fish Sauce To Palm Sugar; A Concise Guide To Essential Thai Ingredients

Thai food is famously known for its liberal use of flavors derived from fresh ingredients, as well as an array of pre-made condiments that add depths of flavor to food. Whether it is a soup, curry, salad or even grilled vegetables or meat, Thai food is packed with spice, citrus and tons of umami flavor.

While it isn’t always possible to peel, chop and grind ingredients to make pastes or condiments from scratch, one can always stock up on a few basic ingredients to bring that Thai flair to your food. Here’s a list of a few must-haves in your pantry, if Thai food is something you find yourself steering toward often, for meals like lunch or dinner. Continued … 

Thai Street Food Food Tour of Bangkok: Video 

8 unique experiences in Phuket

At Phuket’s far southeastern tip, sleepy Ao Yon Beach is the perfect place to ease into a Phuket escape. Accommodation at The Mooring Resort comprises a handful of stylish villas arrayed with a shaded swimming pool, with free kayaks and paddleboards for launching off a private bay. Just a sandy barefoot stroll away, The Cove dishes up wood-fired pizza and great cocktails.

On weekends, Ao Yon gets slightly busier, as local families swim at a nearby cove, picnic on the beach, and enjoy a scattering of street food stalls. If you’re after something more energetic, fire up the handy Grab or Bolt ride-sharing apps for the 20-minute journey north to Phuket Town. Continued …

G7 stiffens resolve to thwart Russia, engage warily with China

The Group of Seven (G7) nations signaled to Russia their readiness to stand by Ukraine for the long haul, while giving President Volodymyr Zelensky a chance to win over countries such as Brazil and India on the last day of a summit in Japan. Continued …

Spacex Sends Saudi Astronauts, Including Nation’s 1st Woman In Space

Saudi Arabia’s first astronauts in decades rocketed toward the International Space Station on a chartered multimillion-dollar flight Sunday. SpaceX launched the ticket-holding crew, led by a retired NASA astronaut now working for the company that arranged the trip from Kennedy Space Center. Also on board: a U.S. businessman who now owns a sports car racing team. Continued …

Investigation Begins On Two Ancient Shipwrecks In South China Sea

An archaeological investigation on two ancient shipwrecks discovered in the South China Sea was launched on Saturday, opening a new chapter of China’s deep-sea archaeology, according to a press conference held Sunday in Sanya, south China’s Hainan Province. Continued …

Are cryptocurrencies making a comeback?

Last year was a rough one for cryptocurrencies, as Bitcoin, the largest digital asset in the world, lost nearly 65% of its market value. Crypto enthusiasts were caught off guard by a series of unfortunate events, such as the Terra Luna crash, the collapse of major exchange FTX, and unfavorable macroeconomic conditions. Continued …

German police say probing suspected poisoning of Russian exiles

German police are investigating the possible poisoning of exiled Russians after a journalist and an activist reported health problems following a Berlin meeting of dissidents, a spokesman for the force said on Sunday. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

bangkok, covid, hua hin, immigration, thai economy, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news-May 19

  • Here we go again: Thai PM Candidate Faces Disqualification Bid/
  • More senators back Pita’s bid to be prime minister/
  • Move Forward musters 8-party bloc/
  • Business leaders want outdated laws scrapped, concerned over wage hikes/
  • Projected slowdown in global economic growth could hurt Thai exports/
  • Thailand aims for 80% global trade coverage with new FTAs by 2027/
  • Thailand’s Scamdemic: how Covid-19 supercharged online crime/
  • Thai snooker legend James Wattana loses 3.2 million baht to call center gang/
  • Farmers Guarding Durian Orchards Day And Night After Big Price Hike/
  • Thailand officially anointed as host of 2025 SEA Games/
  • Tourism: Number of Chinese tourists continuing to increase/British family offers reward to ‘detain’ teenager missing in Pattaya/
  • Thailand Experience: Hua Hin Offers Stunning Beaches, Waterfront Living and a ‘Hot’ Golf Game/Nakhon Ratchasima is world’s 4th city to be declared “Triple Crown” by UNESCO/
  • International: High stakes for Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian troops/New Covid-19 variant spreading swiftly/Colombian president says missing children in jungle still missing/Half world’s largest lakes and reservoirs drying up/The Noah’s Ark for plants beneath the English countryside/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

  • Subscribe to Blog via Email

    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Here we go again: Thai PM Candidate Faces Disqualification Bid

Thailand’s Election Commission is weighing a last-minute legal challenge to the pro-democracy front-runner in the country’s race for prime minister, in a case that could derail the political career of one of the military-backed government’s fiercest critics.

The complaint against Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat bears strong echoes of the case that brought down another rising star of Thailand’s gaining pro-democracy movement four years ago and set the stage for a wave of anti-government protests. Continued … 

More senators back Pita’s bid to be prime minister

A growing number of senators are rallying behind Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid for prime minister, citing the people’s mandate shown in Sunday’s election and the MFP’s increased chance of forming a government.

Sen. Sathit Limpongpan has pledged support for a government coalition that manages to secure more than 250 House seats, or half of all the seats at stake. He joins at least 14 other senators reportedly gearing to back Pita’s bid to become prime minister. Continued …

Move Forward musters 8-party bloc

The Move Forward Party (MFP) has announced the formation of an eight-party alliance and the setting up of working groups to lobby senators for support and thrash out policy platforms, with a memorandum of understanding to be disclosed on Monday.

With the inclusion of the Pheu Thai Ruam Palang and Palang Sangkhom Mai parties, the MFP-led bloc has pulled in 313 House seats and requires 63 more votes to support MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid to become prime minister. Continued …

Business leaders want outdated laws scrapped, concerned over wage hikes

Industry leaders are looking forward to the removal of outdated laws to make it easier for them to do business, as promised by the Move Forward Party during its election campaign, but they are worried that implementation of wage hikes would hit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) hard.

The business leaders said they welcomed the formation of a coalition government led by election winner Move Forward Party, and hoped the next administration would take office soon to start driving Thailand’s economy to stability and sustainability. Continued … 

Projected slowdown in global economic growth could hurt Thai exports

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDB) expects the global economy to grow 2.7% this year, with global trade volume falling to 2.1% due to low growth among key trading partners.

Thai export growth could therefore be negative this year, making it imperative that the new government seeks new export markets and pursues trade negotiations to support Thai exports. Continued …

Thailand aims for 80% global trade coverage with new FTAs by 2027

Thailand is aiming to expand its free trade agreements (FTAs) to cover 80% of its global trade with over 50 countries by 2027, according to Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Trade Negotiations Department.

The department is exploring the feasibility of establishing new FTAs with various countries and trade blocs, including Israel, Bhutan, South Korea, the Pacific Alliance, the Southern African Customs Union, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The private sector has also expressed interest in forming an FTA between Thailand and the Mercosur trade bloc in South America, which comprises Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Continued …

Thailand’s Scamdemic: how Covid-19 supercharged online crime

Cyberscamming has become a trillion-dollar industry, with the numbers of both scammers and victims soaring over the past three years.

Many young Thais have been enticed by online job advertisements promising well-paid work in Cambodia and Myanmar. but once they cross the border into these “special economic zones” (SEZs), many wind up in the hands of Chinese gangs who confiscate their passports. They’ve been scammed, and now – on pain of death or torture – they’re scammers themselves. Continued …

Thai snooker legend James Wattana loses 3.2 million baht to call center gang

Thai snooker star James Wattana, who is better known locally as “Tong Sitchoi”, has fallen victim to a call center scam gang who allegedly cheated him out of about 3.2 million baht.

James, who has just won a gold medal in the doubles snooker competition at the SEA Games in Cambodia, said he received a phone call at about 11pm on Tuesday, informing about an allegation that he had been involved in illicit drug trafficking and money laundering and demanding that he wire them money to settle the case. Continued …

Farmers Guarding Durian Orchards Day And Night After Big Price Hike

Durian farmers in Tak province just across the border from Myanmar are guarding their orchards day and night to keep thieves at bay after a big price rise this year.

Chub Buasom, or Uncle Chub, a farmer in Ruam Thai Phatthana subdistrict, Phop Phra district, said previously durians were sold at 120 baht a kilogram at the orchards but the price has soared to 180 a kilogram this year. This is due to low output, with orchards affected by frequent temperature fluctuation, from hot to cold then hot again. Continued …

Thailand officially anointed as host of 2025 SEA Games

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt was in Phnom Penh on Wednesday where he was presented with the flag of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Tea Banh as Thailand prepares to host the next Games in 2025.

The 33rd Games are scheduled for Dec. 9-20, 2025, with most of the events being held in Bangkok, while marine competitions will be held in the seaside provinces of Chonburi and Songkhla. Continued …

NOTICE: Avatar Garden has temporarily closed for renovations. We will reopen about July 1. Stay tuned!

Number of Chinese tourists continuing to increase

The number of flights between China and Thailand is continuing to increase but is still significantly lower than pre-Covid, according to Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co. (Aerothai) President Nopasit Chakpitak.

A total of 12,805 flights landed in the country between October 2022 and April 2023, and with this increasing trend predicted to continue, preparations are being made to manage air traffic and ensure smooth operations. Continued …

British family offers reward to ‘detain’ teenager missing in Pattaya

A worried British family is offering a 10,000-baht reward to anyone who can locate and “detain on sight” a runaway 17-year-old believed to be missing in Pattaya.

The family has reason to believe that Ryan White, from Gateshead in England, traveled to Sin City after flying to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport one week ago on Friday, May 12. Continued … 

Hua Hin Offers Stunning Beaches, Waterfront Living and a ‘Hot’ Golf Game

A summer climate year round, jungle scenery and a currency with a more than generous exchange rate make Thailand a prime option for passionate golfers looking for second homes or retirement estates.

Thailand meets the sea along its southern stretch, with its coast bending like a horseshoe around its titular gulf. Hua Hin resides along the beaches of that horseshoe’s western shore — almost directly across from another tourist enclave, Pattaya City on the gulf’s eastern seaboard. Continued …

Nakhon Ratchasima is world’s 4th city to be declared “Triple Crown” by UNESCO

Nakhon Ratchasima, in Thailand’s northeast, has become the world’s fourth place to gain UNESCO’s coveted “Triple Crown”, after the international organization declared the Khorat Geopark a Global Geopark on Wednesday.

The Khorat Geopark covers five districts in the province, including Mueang, Sikhio, Sung Noen, Kham Thale So and Chaloem Phra Kiat. Continued …

High stakes for Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian troops

Ukraine’s highly anticipated counteroffensive will be an important test of its ability to make significant new gains against Russian forces, and of the effectiveness of the massive amount of military assistance provided by Kyiv’s international supporters. Continued …

New Covid-19 variant spreading swiftly

Doctors are warning that a new substrain of Omicron – FU.1 – is spreading worldwide at a 50% faster rate than the Omicron substrain XBB.1.16. The FU.1 substrain (also known as XBB.1.16.1.1) has infected 122 people worldwide, including one Thaiy. Continued …

Colombian president says missing children in jungle still missing

The fate of four children who were missing after a plane crash in southern Colombia was unclear on Thursday after President Gustavo Petro deleted a Tweet saying they had been found alive, adding in a new message that reports of their discovery was unconfirmed and the search still ongoing. Continued …

Half world’s largest lakes and reservoirs drying up

More than half of the world’s largest lakes and reservoirs are dwindling and placing humanity’s future water security at risk, with climate change and unsustainable consumption the main culprits, a study said yesterday. Continued …

The Noah’s Ark for plants beneath the English countryside

Inside bomb-proof frozen vaults underneath the English countryside hides a treasure trove of 40,000 species of wild plant seeds from around the world, many of which are in danger of disappearing. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting

climate change, hua hin, marijuana, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Saturday’s news-May 13

  • Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend/
  • ‘Monster’ Asian heatwave and arrival of El Niño signal severe drought crisis/
  • Thai parties make push to woo voters ahead of Sunday election/
  • Thailand’s long and winding election road/
  • Even wild elephants no match for Chachoengsao dogs/
  • Exploring the peace corps’ 60-year history in Thailand/
  • Thailand’s experiment with weed goes up in smoke/
  • Thailand’s Economy: Number of registered businesses at highest level in a decade/EV Primus angles to create EV supermarket/Chon Buri to get new EV battery factory/Asia Biomass eyes 20% revenue growth in 2023/El Nino May Slash Thai Rice Crop and Spur Inflation Across Asia/
  • Tourism: Thai tourism rebound evident with surge in new business registrations/‘Entry Thailand’ website introduced to provide useful information to visitors/
  • International: Russia Retreats North Of Bakhmut, Mercenary Boss Calls It A ‘Rout’/G-7 finance chiefs boost Ukraine aid, propose supply chain plan/
  • Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Due to the election tomorrow, there will be no alcohol sales from 6pm tonight until 6pm Sunday.

 

 

Cyclone Mocha to bring heavy rains to much of Thailand over the weekend

The north, central, eastern and southern regions of Thailand will experience isolated heavy to very heavy rains from Friday to Monday due to the influence of tropical cyclone “Mocha”, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said on Friday.

The cyclone, which was hovering over the central Bay of Bengal as of 4am Friday, was moving north at about 10 km/hr with sustained winds of about 105 km/hr. It is expected to make landfall over Myanmar on either Sunday or Monday. Continued …

‘Monster’ Asian heatwave and arrival of El Niño signal severe drought crisis

Thailand is susceptible to the effects of El Niño, which is forecast by the Department of Meteorology and weather experts to commence in June. The world, Thailand included, is expected to face an intense drought due to the occurrence of El Niño, leading to reduced rainfall during the rainy season, or possibly no rain at all.

El Niño is the warm phase of a cyclical climate pattern known as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, when temperatures in the Pacific reach more than 0.5 degrees Celsius above normal. Continued …

Thai parties make push to woo voters ahead of Sunday election

Surrounded by adoring crowds packed inside stadiums and halls, the main prime ministerial candidates of Thailand’s political parties made a final push to rally supporters on Friday, two days before a crunch general election.

After nearly a decade of a government that was led or backed by its royalist military, some 52 million eligible voters in Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy will head to polling stations on Sunday when voters will choose whether to stay the course with military-linked conservatives or opt for change. Continued …

Thailand’s long and winding election road

When Thais go to the polls on Sunday, the challenge is how to help lay the groundwork for a system that can prevent the next election from being held under similar circumstances. It’s a tough ask, but every election presents a fresh hope, no matter how difficult the path remains.

The major paradox is there for all to see. It can’t be an election without heroes and villains, and it can’t be an election without everyone wanting to be a hero at the expense of others. It’s the way things are, but it’s not the way things are supposed to be. Continued … 

Even wild elephants no match for Chachoengsao dogs

An amusing scene of wild elephants being chased out of a residential area by a pack of domesticated dogs was captured on film by villagers on Friday evening.

A herd of some 20 wild elephants had wandered into Ban Khlong Mahad village in Chachoengsao’s Tha Takiab district, said Somwong Chanthachote, chief of the village’s “Elephant Watch” volunteer group. Continued …

Exploring the peace corps’ 60-year history in Thailand

The Peace Corps is a United States agency established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to promote peace and friendship worldwide. Peace Corps volunteers have been working in Thailand since 1962, assisting Thai government agencies in various fields.

Currently, they operate in two main projects: teacher collaboration for development and youth development. Over 5,500 volunteers have worked with Thai communities for more than 60 years, but their work was halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, Peace Corps volunteers returned to Thailand and underwent a 10-week training program before being dispatched to 29 provinces across the country. Their swearing-in ceremony coincided with the 60th-anniversary celebration of Peace Corps cooperation in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand’s experiment with weed goes up in smoke

After four years of support from the ruling coalition government, Thailand is expected to vote against the decriminalization of marijuana in Sunday’s general election. The current free-for-all and weed shops lining the busy tourist streets appears unlikely to continue in the months after the election and a new parliament is settled.

Almost all of the political parties involved in the 2023 national election are in favor of returning to the previous policies of marijuana prohibition and confining its use to medicinal purposes only. Only one party is still seeking some sort of policy that would allow and regulate recreational use. Continued …

Number of registered businesses at highest level in a decade

A total of 6,041 new businesses were registered in April, an increase of 12.37% over the same period last year, according to data released by the Department of Business Development under the Commerce Ministry.

The total number of registered establishments in operation during the first four months of this year reached 32,223, the highest in the past decade. The tourism sector saw 100% growth, Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit disclosed on Friday. Continued …

EV Primus angles to create EV supermarket

The growing electric vehicle (EV) market in Thailand is leading car dealers to consider what EV brands should be featured in their showrooms.

Instead of relying on one brand, EV Primus sells a variety of brands, focusing on cars that match the different lifestyles of drivers. Continued …

Chon Buri to get new EV battery factory

Chinese high-tech enterprise Anwha (Shanghai) Automation Engineering has chosen Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor as its first overseas production base to make batteries for electric vehicles (Evs) under the MG brand.

“The factory will be located near the MG plant in Chon Buri,” said Anwha’s business development consultant Jay Teo, referring to a car assembly facility operated by Thai-Chinese joint venture SAIC Motor-CP, the manufacturer of MG cars. Continued …

Asia Biomass eyes 20% revenue growth in 2023

Asia Biomass Plc (ABM), Thailand’s largest biomass fuel producer and trader by volume, expects revenue to grow by 20% this year to more than 3.6 billion baht thanks to its business expansion amid growing concerns over global warming.

The company’s sales volume is projected to be 1 million tons in 2023. Last year, ABM revenue grew by 41% to 2.71 billion baht, up from 1.92 billion in 2021. Continued …

El Nino May Slash Thai Rice Crop and Spur Inflation Across Asia

Thailand, the world’s second-biggest rice exporter, is asking farmers to grow only one crop this year — instead of the usual two — as a likely El Nino looks set to reduce rainfall.

Rice is highly water-intensive and is dependent on irrigation and enough precipitation. It’s an early sign of how the disruptive weather pattern is threatening global food production. The resulting drop in rice output also has the potential to push up prices of a staple food for more than half the world’s population. Continued …

Thai tourism rebound evident with surge in new business registrations

Thailand’s tourism sector has witnessed a strong rebound, as evidenced by the significant surge in new registrations for tourism-related businesses during the initial four months of this year.

The Ministry of Commerce revealed yesterday that the number of new tourism-related business registrations had doubled year-on-year, reaching 2,579 in the first four months, with a total registered capital increase of 135% to 6.66 billion baht. Continued …

‘Entry Thailand’ website introduced to provide useful information to visitors

Thailand’s Department of Tourism has introduced “www.entrythailand.go.th,” a website that contains useful information, news, related websites, and applications for travelers on arrival and during their stay in Thailand.

The website features:

– Thailand information
– Real-time, in-depth flight information
– SHA/SHA+ accommodation booking
– Reservation home and camping
– Cultural calendar
– Weather warnings
– Thai disaster alert mobile application
– Thailand tourism directory
– VAT refund for tourists. Continued …

Russia Retreats North Of Bakhmut, Mercenary Boss Calls It A ‘Rout’

Moscow acknowledged on Friday that its forces had fallen back north of Ukraine’s battlefield city of Bakhmut after a new Ukrainian offensive, in a retreat that the head of Russia’s Wagner private army called a rout. Continued …

G-7 finance chiefs boost Ukraine aid, propose supply chain plan

Group of Seven (G-7) finance chiefs put more aid on the table for Ukraine, set up a new supply chain initiative and vowed to fill regulatory gaps in the banking sector in a show of unity on global geo-economic issues after three days of talks. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

90-day online reporting