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Saturday’s news-June 10

June 10, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Prospective PM Pita clears a hurdle… next the parliamentary vote/
New Thai government still not assured/
Top 10 countries Brits want to spend their retirement/
Dengue outbreak hits Thai village with over 100 cases/
Thai elephant to be repatriated from Sri Lanka with 19-million-baht budget/
Thai Cannabis Day Promotes New Government Negotiations/
Economy: Thai households’ monthly bills high despite falling fuel prices/El Niño fails to affect Thai food prices/12.5 million more skilled staff eyed by 2027/
Tourism: Thai hotels and serviced apartments turning to Airbnb to drive international bookings/
Thailand Experience: Sakhon Nakhon is known for its unique local culture/
International: Commentary: Russian invaders blew up hydroelectric power plant dam/Vietnam to have 33 international and domestic airports by 2030/Children lost for 40 days in Colombian Amazon found alive/Indonesia’s Anak Krakatoa volcano erupts/Donald Trump indictment details charges against former president/Boris Johnson resigns as MP after tumultuous political career/
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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Prospective PM Pita clears a hurdle… next the parliamentary vote

Thailand’s Election Commission has unanimously dismissed three official complaints against Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat, who was accused of holding 42,000 shares in iTV, a media company. The complaints were filed by various individuals, including serial litigant Ruangkrai Leekitwattana.

But the EC says that the complaints were submitted after the prescribed time limits and therefore could not be considered. Continued …

New Thai government still not assured

The Move Foward Party (MFP)-led alliance is conjuring up the impression that it has already assumed control of the country’s administration, according to a political source.

The surreality being created, which critics decried as counting chickens before they hatch, has given supporters a sense that a new dawn awaits the country. Continued …

Top 10 countries Brits want to spend their retirement

New research has revealed the top 10 countries Brits want to spend their retirement in, with Spain placing first.

Equity release specialists at Retirement Solutions analyzed the average monthly Google search volume for different terms relating to retiring abroad. They wanted to determine the countries that Brits are most seeking to move to, upon retirement. Continued …

Dengue outbreak hits Thai village with over 100 cases

A severe dengue outbreak has hit Thailand’s northern Nan province, with over 100 cases reported in a single village. Ranking second in Thailand for the highest number of dengue patients, health officials are stepping up efforts to control the spread of the disease.

Dr. Warin Teppitaksak, the provincial public health officer, revealed that the dengue outbreak situation in Nan province is concerning, with Chiang Klang district having the highest number of dengue patients. The outbreak began in the village of Huay Kaeo, with over 100 patients coming from the same area. Continued …

Thai elephant to be repatriated from Sri Lanka with 19-million-baht budget

Animal lovers will be happy to know that Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has allocated a budget of 19 million baht for the return of Sak Surin, an ailing Thai elephant, from Sri Lanka next month, as announced by Minister Varawut Silpa-archa.

Sak Surin was one of three elephants sent to Sri Lanka as goodwill ambassadors from Thailand in 2001. Rally for Animal Rights & Environment, an animal rights group, has filed a complaint stating that the elephant has suffered mistreatment for several years. Continued …

Thai Cannabis Day Promotes New Government Negotiations

Cannabis advocates in Thailand organized a political movement on Thailand Cannabis Day, June 9, to advocate for the declassification of cannabis as a Class 5 narcotic and to allow home cultivation without a license for medicinal purposes, as decided by the Food and Drug Administration on June 9, 2022.

The status of cannabis takes a turn after the general election when the eight political parties forming a coalition government, led by the Move Forward party, sign an MOU expressing their mutual agreement to reintroduce cannabis as a controlled narcotic. Continued …

Thai households’ monthly bills high despite falling fuel prices

The average monthly household expenditure for Thai families came in at 18,023 baht in May, down by 130 baht from the previous month. However, the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) said this was still high.

The average household expenditure dropped in line with the country’s headline inflation in May. Inflation dropped sharply to 0.53% in May, the lowest in 21 months, from 2.67% in the previous month. Continued …

El Niño fails to affect Thai food prices

The Internal Trade Department says the droughts caused by the El Niño weather phenomenon have yet to affect the prices of local goods. The prices of fresh vegetables, limes and coriander are declining, as are fertilizer prices, said the department.

Chakra Yodmani, the department’s deputy director-general, said the droughts have not yet had a significant effect in terms of price adjustments. Continued …

12.5 million more skilled staff eyed by 2027

Thailand aims to produce around 800,000 skilled workers next year in targeted industries, including intelligent electronics, next-generation automobiles and healthcare.

Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon chaired a meeting of the national workers’ skill development committee at the Five Provinces Bordering Forest Preservation Foundation on Friday to discuss incentives to develop more skilled workers. Continued …

Thai hotels and serviced apartments turning to Airbnb to drive international bookings

As global travel recovery continues at pace, Thailand remains top of mind among international travelers. Thailand was the #1 most-visited country on Airbnb in Southeast Asia in 2022, while Bangkok ranks #5 on Airbnb’s list of top trending global travel spots in 2023.

As travelers flock to the country for business, leisure and remote work, they are searching for more affordable stays. They are also exploring a wider variety of accommodation offerings that meet their varying needs – ranging from entire homes, to shared homes and rooms. Notably, nights booked in private room listings on Airbnb in Thailand grew by over 500% year-on-year last year, up from 2021. Continued …

Sakhon Nakhon is known for its unique local culture

Sakhon Nakhon is a province located in the northeastern region of Thailand, commonly known as Isaan. It is situated approximately 651 kilometers northeast of Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand.

Sakhon Nakhon province covers an area of around 9,605 square kilometers and is bordered by six other provinces: Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Kalasin, and Udon Thani. Continued …

Russian invaders blew up hydroelectric power plant dam

Since the beginning of the war of aggression waged by Russia against Ukraine, there have been so many crimes and atrocities committed by the aggressor-state forces, causing suffering and pain to the Ukrainian people. Continued …

Vietnam to have 33 international and domestic airports by 2030

Vietnam is set to have 33 airports by 2030, including 14 serving international flights and 19 serving domestic flights. The investment is estimated at about VND420 trillion (US$18 billion), mobilized from the state budget, non-budget capital and other legal capital sources. Continued …

Children lost for 40 days in Colombian Amazon found alive

The four Indigenous children who had been missing for more than a month in the Colombian Amazon rainforest after a small plane crash have been found alive, President Gustavo Petro announced Friday. Continued …

Indonesia’s Anak Krakatoa volcano erupts

Indonesia’s Anak Krakatoa volcano erupted on Friday, belching a column of ash more than three kilometers into the sky, officials said. The volcanic island emerged from the sea at the beginning of the last century from the crater formed after the 1883 eruption of Mount Krakatoa — one of the deadliest and most destructive in history. This is the second volcano eruption in the past week in Indonesia.(thaipbs.com)

Donald Trump indictment details charges against former president

Donald Trump and one of his Mar-a-Lago staffers, personal valet Walt Nauta, were charged with dozens of counts of allegedly violating eight federal statutes related to the handling of classified documents after the former president left the White House, according to the 44-page indictment unsealed Friday. Continued …

Boris Johnson resigns as MP after tumultuous political career

Boris Johnson’s fall from power in the UK was as dramatic and controversial as his rise. The former prime minister, whose career was defined by surviving scandal, stepped down as an MP after a series of controversies. Despite this, Johnson left the possibility of a return to politics open for his allies. 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, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-June 8

June 8, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

Pran Buri Dam water levels reach critical point as drought crisis deepens/
Drought and irrigation issues pose challenges for PKK mango farmers/
Alleged gunman caught after shooting Russian in broad daylight in Phuket/
Urgent need for EV charging stations stressed/
Visa changes block Thai workers from Finnish berry fields/
Thai Owner Shocked: Indian Businessman Illegally Occupied His Buildings In Pattaya/
Economy: Thai economy faces 4 risks in 2nd half: SCB Securities/New government delay seen as threat to growth/Thai economy could face 36 billion baht hit from extreme weather/Japanese data centers expand into Thailand/Exports of Thai air-con parts to US surge 126% in 1st quarter/
Tourism: Tourism expected to keep Thai economy growing despite global headwind/Why 80% of travelers research food and drinks before a trip/Thai tourism campaign targets secondary cities for foreign visitors boost/15 Polish tourists evacuated before their bus was engulfed in flames/New road linking Phuket, Phangnga now complete/Canada loosens visa rule for Thais/
Thailand Experience: The 5 best activities in Central Thailand/Kanchanaburi: A town full of history/Nong Khai: Thailand’s link to Laos/
International: Work begins on 2nd Chinese-invested expressway in Cambodia/IATA sees gradual recovery in Asia-Pacific aviation/Ukraine agriculture crisis looms after dam collapse/World’s largest crocodile celebrates 120th birthday in Australia/
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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Pran Buri Dam water levels reach critical point as drought crisis deepens

Prachuap Khiri Khan is facing an alarming drought situation, as water levels at the Pran Buri Dam have reached critically low levels. Officials have sounded the alarm over the severity of the crisis, prompting urgent measures to address the water shortage affecting the region.

Pran Buri Dam, a vital water source for the area, including for Hua Hin, currently holds only 14%-15% of its total capacity, officials have said. Continued …

Drought and irrigation issues pose challenges for PKK mango farmers

Mango farmers in Prachuap Khiri Khan province are facing significant challenges, as severe drought conditions and inadequate irrigation systems take a toll on their crops.

Throughout the province in Pran Buri, Sam Roi Yot, Kui Buri, and Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan, some 50,000 rai of land is used to grow mangoes for export. Continued …

Alleged gunman caught after shooting Russian in broad daylight in Phuket

Phuket airport authorities arrested a Kazakhstani gunman who alledgedly shot a 44-year-old Russian national in broad daylight. Artur Legey, the 49-year-old suspect, was apprehended at the Phuket International Airport while preparing to flee. The victim was left critically injured in the incident that occurred outside a cafe in Thalang district, Phuket, yesterday.

The Russian man, Dmitri Aleynikov, suffered severe injuries in the Phuket shooting that occurred yesterday. The incident took place in broad daylight, and the perpetrator quickly fled the scene on an unregistered Yamaha motorcycle. Continued …

Urgent need for EV charging stations stressed

With purchases of electrical vehicles on the rise, the insufficient number of EV charging stations across the country is becoming increasingly challenging for drivers.

In an attempt to remedy the situation, the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) has announced that it is planning to collaborate with all car manufacturers to integrate and expand the charging station network. Continued …

Visa changes block Thai workers from Finnish berry fields

Not a single Thai worker has been confirmed to come to Finland for the upcoming picking season, following changes in visa procedures.

“We felt that we have to re-examine our procedures. The police investigations came to light last summer, (referring to the criminal prosecutions and human trafficking suspicions that happened in 2022) and this is the first picking season since that,” Katja Luopajärvi, the deputy head of the visa unit at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Continued …

Thai Owner Shocked: Indian Businessman Illegally Occupied His Buildings In Pattaya

The Thai owner of two adjoining commercial buildings in Pattaya, which he only came to inspect after five years yesterday, was shocked at discovering that an Indian businessman had trespassed and illegally turned the ground floor into a dance club, with the the rooms above rented out.

Supanat Chinnawat, 30, filed a complaint at Pattaya City police station that his two four-story adjoining commercial buildings on Pattaya Sai 3 road on the way to Bali Hai pier had been illegally occupied. Continued …

Thai economy faces 4 risks in 2nd half: SCB Securities

A slowing global economy, electoral uncertainty, rising interest rates, and drought are the four key risks facing the Thai economy in the second half of this year, a senior analyst at SCB Securities said.

Piyasak Manasan, senior vice president of the company’s investment research department, said official figures for the first quarter of this year showed gross domestic product (GDP) expanded faster than expected but not enough to raise full-year forecasts of 3.2% GDP growth. Continued …

New government delay seen as threat to growth

The private sector is concerned that Thai GDP growth could decline to 1%-2% if the formation of the new government is delayed from the timeline by six months or more.

Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, said the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) is monitoring politics and awaiting a new government. Continued …

Thai economy could face 36 billion baht hit from extreme weather

Extreme weather conditions, including drought and floods, could potentially inflict a 36-billion-baht blow to Thailand‘s economy this year, warns the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB). Drought, in particular, is a significant concern, as it may severely affect the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, further hindering the country’s already sluggish exports.

“Manufacturers are worried about drought because it can reduce production capacity and affect exports,” said Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), which is part of the JSCCIB. Continued …

Japanese data centers expand into Thailand

Two Japan-based data center providers have invested US164 million (5.5 billion baht) in Thailand to build and expand data centers, cashing in on the trend of digital transformation and the exponential growth of cloud computing.

Telehouse recently opened its first data center in Thailand with an investment of $74 million, while NTT invested 3 billion baht through NTT Global Data Centers Corp. to develop its newest and largest data center in Thailand. The latter’s new Bangkok 3 Data Center (BKK3) is slated to start operations in the second half of 2024. Continued …

Exports of Thai air-con parts to US surge 126% in 1st quarter

Exports of air-conditioner components to the United States surged 126% in the first quarter of this year, compared to the same period last year, the chief of the Foreign Trade Department said on Wednesday.

Ronnarong Phoolpipat, director-general of the department, said Thailand exported US$146.96 million worth of components for air conditioners to the U.S. in the first three months of this year. Continued …

Tourism expected to keep Thai economy growing despite global headwind

The Thai economy is likely to continue to recover despite a slowing global economy due to the strong recovery in the tourism industry, Thailand’s most powerful business lobby group said on Wednesday.

Up to 30 million foreign tourists will visit Thailand this year and the government should launch measures to attract more, including lessening water shortages in areas tourists visit, said the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB). Continued …

Why 80% of travelers research food and drinks before a trip

In recent years, Instagram has been thought to be a significant catalyst for which destinations people gravitate toward when planning on traveling, but a new catalyst is emerging.

According to new international data from Global Food Tourism, 80% of travelers will research food and drinks in a location before heading off on their travels. Continued …

Thai tourism campaign targets secondary cities for foreign visitors boost

Thailand‘s Tourism Authority (TAT) has revealed a significant increase in international travelers visiting the country in the first five months of 2023, with a total of 10,568,485 visitors. In collaboration with Central Pattana Plc., TAT aims to promote local and alternative tourism destinations, targeting a shift in the proportion of travelers from major to secondary cities.

During the first five months of 2023, international tourist visits reached 10,568,485, with 1,972,033 visits in May alone. The top five countries in visitor numbers were Malaysia, China, India, South Korea, and Lao PDR. To stimulate travel to secondary cities, TAT has partnered with Central Pattana to launch the “Go Local, Love Local” campaign. The first phase focuses on four provinces: Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ayutthaya, Ubon Ratchathani, and Chanthaburi. Continued …

15 Polish tourists evacuated before their bus was engulfed in flames

The quick thinking of a 48-year-old bus driver may have saved the lives of 15 Polish tourists on Wednesday morning on one of the busy Bangkok expressways that circle the capital city when he quickly parked his bus and evacuated his passengers after noticing smoke coming from the underside of the bus near the luggage compartment.

Kanchit Kaewmanee had earlier picked up the tourists from a hotel in the Makkasan area of the city and was traveling outbound on Expressway Number 2 near the Kamphaeng Phet Road when the incident occurred. Continued …

New road linking Phuket, Phangnga now complete

The Department of Rural Roads (DRR) announced the completion of the Na Klang-Ao Jik road linking Phuket and Phangnga, which will support local tourism and cross-provincial transport. Continued …

Canada loosens visa rule for Thais

Thailand is among 13 countries newly added to Canada’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) program by its Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser, the North American country announced yesterday.

Travelers who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when traveling to Canada by air, according to the website canada.ca. Continued …

The 5 best activities in Central Thailand

Calling all adventurous souls, culture vultures, and travel lovers! Are you ready for the new chapters through Thailand’s central region? Picture this: vibrant cities pulsating with life, ancient temples whispering tales from the past, and natural landscapes that will take your breath away.

And if you wonder what’s the best thing to do in Central Thailand? Well, it’s a tough one. After all, there are so many things you can do. And, with the help of our friends at TAT and Klook, we’ve compiled the best activities below. Continued …

Kanchanaburi: A town full of history

It felt as if my eyes and skin were on fire while walking down the new 150m-long skywalk in the sweltering midday sun. It was due to my late arrival in Kanchanaburi, but I decided to stick to my original plan.

At least I was rewarded with stunning views of the confluence of the Khwae Yai, Khwae Noi and Mae Klong rivers, set against a backdrop of lush hilly environment and old city walls. Continued …

Nong Khai: Thailand’s link to Laos

Nong Khai is a province located in northeastern Thailand, also known as Isaan. It is situated on the banks of the Mekong River, which forms the natural border between Thailand and Laos. Here are some key details about Nong Khai:

Geography and Location: Nong Khai Province covers an area of approximately 7,325 square kilometers. It is bordered by the provinces of Bueng Kan to the east, Sakon Nakhon to the south, and Loei to the west. Across the Mekong River lies Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Continued …

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

Work begins on 2nd Chinese-invested expressway in Cambodia

Cambodia on Wednesday broke ground on the second Chinese-invested expressway connecting the capital Phnom Penh with Bavet City of Svay Rieng province on the border with Vietnam. Continued …

IATA sees gradual recovery in Asia-Pacific aviation

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects Asia-Pacific aviation to gradually recover throughout this year, despite some hiccups in the supply chain and a few Covid travel restrictions still being in place. Continued …

Ukraine agriculture crisis looms after dam collapse

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has not only resulted in devastating humanitarian consequences but also poses a severe threat to the country’s agriculture. Ukrainian officials have warned that the southern region’s fertile lands could transform into deserts as early as next year due to the destruction of vital irrigation systems that rely on the Kakhovka reservoir. Continued …

World’s largest crocodile celebrates 120th birthday in Australia

Australia‘s Marineland Crocodile Park celebrated the presumed 120th birthday of Cassius, the world’s largest captive crocodile. Cassius, measuring 5.48 meters in length, has been a resident of the park on Green Island in Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef since 1984, after being captured in the Northern Territory’s Finniss River for allegedly causing numerous cattle deaths. 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

climate change, hua hin, medical tourism, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-June 7

June 7, 2023 Hua Hin Expat News

“Timing has a lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance.”

Thailand and SE Asia ‘caught off guard’ by record heatwave/
Hidden cameras at Monsoon Valley Vineyard showcase a wide variety of animals/
Heavy rainfall to hit 54 provinces, Bangkok at risk of flash floods/
Public healthcare system facing doctor shortage, workload concerns/
Alleged cyanide serial killer faces highest number of charges in Thai history/
Abandoned Dog Has Been Waiting for Her Owner for 2 Months/
Economy: Sluggish commodity prices positive for core inflation/Government addresses agricultural sector climate risk/How climate-smart techniques are giving Thailand’s farms a boost/TPIPP to phase out coal-fired power generation by 2026/
Tourism: Lisa puts Ayutthaya back on radar for TAT/Phuket: The Epicenter of Tourism Politics in Thailand/
Thailand Experience: Expat News visits Phetchaburi wildlife rescue foundation/An exotic culinary journey featuring Thai rice/10 delicious Thai dishes you should try that aren’t pad Thai/
International: World Bank revises global economic growth forecast/Wheat Prices Jump Following Bombing Of Major Dam In Southern Ukraine/10 billion global population unsustainable, says climate envoy Kerry/Arctic could be ice-free a decade earlier than thought/PGA Tour and LIV Golf merge to end golf’s ‘civil war’/
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 and SE Asia ‘caught off guard’ by record heatwave

Millions of Vietnamese workers, including drivers, street vendors, cleaners, builders, and farmers, who form the backbone of society, have been disproportionately impacted by the recent extreme heat wave in Southeast Asia. This region experienced its most severe heat wave on record, causing detrimental effects on the health and livelihoods of these individuals.

Typically, April and May are known as the hottest months in Southeast Asia, with temperatures rising before the monsoon rains provide some relief. However, this year witnessed unprecedented heat levels across the region, even in popular tourist destinations such as Thailand and Vietnam. Continued …

Hidden cameras at Monsoon Valley Vineyard showcase a wide variety of animals

A yellow-throated marten striking a pose. Click. A bird of prey spreading its wings. Click. A masked palm civet exploring under the cover of darkness. Click.

Hidden camera traps installed around Monsoon Valley vineyard near Hua Hin have revealed an abundance of wildlife. Continued …

Heavy rainfall to hit 54 provinces, Bangkok at risk of flash floods

Heavy rainfall and floods are expected to hit 54 provinces in Thailand, with a 70% chance of precipitation across the country, according to the Meteorological Department. Bangkok could face flash floods, while increased wave heights are predicted for the Andaman Sea today.

The Meteorological Department’s 24-hour forecast predicts heavy rainfall and thunderstorms due to a trough of a low-pressure area over the South China Sea, combined with a strong southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Continued …

Public healthcare system facing doctor shortage, workload concerns

The Public Health Ministry has taken a close look at the reported shortage of physicians and the reasons behind the heavy workload of personnel in an attempt to improve conditions for all involved in the country’s healthcare system, including ensuring they enjoy a good work-life balance in the future.

Deputy Minister Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin noted that the shortage of personnel is across all healthcare professions, including physicians, nurses and radiologists. Continued …

Alleged cyanide serial killer faces highest number of charges in Thai history

The alleged Thai cyanide serial killer, Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, faces 80 charges for the murders of 14 victims and the attempted murder of one surviving victim. This makes her the criminal with the highest number of charges in Thai history.

The deputy commissioner of the Royal Thai Police (RTP), Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, today confirmed that the number of victims of the cyanide killer is 15, with 14 of them tragically losing their lives due to poisoning. Continued …

Abandoned Dog Has Been Waiting for Her Owner for 2 Months

An online social media account posted texts and pictures searching for the owner of a dog in Uthai Thani Province, 200 kilometers north of Bangkok.

The caption reads: “She has been waiting for 2 months for the owner to pick her up. The owner is her whole world. She’s been standing here all day for 2 months and not going anywhere. She is waiting. I am not sure if she was abandoned or fell out of the car. She is on the roadside of Ban Khao Pha Rad, Nam Rop subdistrict, Lan Sak district, Uthai Thani.” Continued …

Sluggish commodity prices positive for core inflation

The Ministry of Commerce said the domestic general inflation rate for May increased by only 0.53% year-on-year, the lowest level in the past 21 months, due to sluggish prices of petroleum, electricity, and food products. This figure is much lower than the 2.7% figure the financial market projected for May of this year.

According to Wichanun Niwatjinda, deputy director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), the main reasons for this relatively low inflation rate are slow-moving prices of petroleum, electricity, and food products, combined with the low base price used for calculating the inflation rate in May. Continued …

Government addresses agricultural sector climate risk

The government has approved the draft of a financial instrument exchange program aimed at adapting to climate-change risks, particularly in the agricultural sector in the ASEAN region, as part of the moves toward environmental sustainability.

Resolutions related to environmental cooperation and adaptation to climate change, particularly in the agricultural sector, were approved at the Cabinet meeting on June 6, along with the exchange of a draft agreement concerning the implementation of the Innovative Climate-Risk Financing for the Agricultural Sector in the ASEAN Region (ICRFAAR) project. Continued …

How climate-smart techniques are giving Thailand’s farms a boost

Rain machines, water canals, and laser-leveling are some of the methods being adopted in Thailand in an effort to ensure the country has a more sustainable agricultural supply chain amid the global food crisis.

Triggered by climate change, conflict, and the COVID-19 pandemic, food agencies are warning that as many as 828 million people are now food insecure and that over 10 times more people are living in famine-like conditions compared to five years ago. Continued …

TPIPP to phase out coal-fired power generation by 2026

TPI Polene Power Plc (TPIPP), a leading waste-to-energy project developer and operator in Thailand, is set to continue its five-year capital expenditure plan of 14 billion baht. The plan, which began last year, aims to replace coal usage with renewable energy sources and increase the company’s power-generation capacity.

TPIPP has earmarked 3 billion baht for projects focused on reducing coal imports and eliminating coal-fired power generation by 2026, according to Worawit Lerdbussarakam, the company’s vice president. In 2021, coal accounted for half of the total electricity generation of 440 megawatts. By 2024, coal usage is projected to decrease by 30% to 150MW of the new total capacity of 502MW. Continued …

Lisa puts Ayutthaya back on radar for TAT

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has jumped at the chance to promote tourism in Ayutthaya after Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban from the South Korean girl group Blackpink, posted photos while visiting the old city of the World Heritage site on her Instagram account on Monday.

The starlet’s IG account (@lalalalisa_m) has 94.5 million followers. She visited several ruins and temples in Ayutthaya after the Blackpink World Tour Bangkok gigs on the last weekend of May. During her trip with close friends, they donned traditional dress, short-sleeve blouses and indigo tie-dyed, mud-fermented woven, a long fabric wrapped around the waist like a skirt. Continued …

Phuket: The Epicenter of Tourism Politics in Thailand

Tourism on Thailand’s most popular island has bounced back since the pandemic. Now, proposed visitor taxes and uncertainty around cannabis use are placing tourism high on the political agenda.

Almost two years have passed since Thailand’s then Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha personally greeted tourists arriving at Phuket International Airport. On July 1, 2021, during the dark days of Covid-19, he launched the Phuket Sandbox, the first coordinated attempt to rebirth tourism in Southeast Asia. Continued …

Expat News visits Phetchaburi wildlife rescue foundation

We had the opportunity to tour the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand facility in Phetchaburi recently. More about the foundation HERE.

WFFT currently houses more than 800 animals in 70 different species, including a cougar from Canada and a chimpanzee from Africa. The facility is huge, with concrete construction and metal cages prominent throughout, and extensive new construction underway.

They need the space, as they expect to add as many as 20 tigers and 20 leopards to the mix after a camp in northern Thailand closed. WFFT currently has 4 tigers and no leopards.

The tour provides excellent information on the animals and the facility; however, the tour does not use Thai translators, so Thais not knowing English gain zero knowledge from the visit. There also are no signs in Thai.

WFFT provides transport from Hua Hin for those interested. For tour information.

An exotic culinary journey featuring Thai rice

When one talks about Thai rice, the spotlight is not only on Hom Mali or Jasmine rice. Thailand’s fertile and abundant land has given the country’s rice a global reputation. Thailand is currently the second largest rice exporter, lending credence to its claims to be the “The kitchen of the world”.

Across the country, from the North down to the South, rice is a staple crop and plays an important role in the Thai cultural and gastronomical heritage. Continued …

10 delicious Thai dishes you should try that aren’t pad Thai

Thai food is known for its variety of signature ingredients, like lemongrass, ginger, lime, chili, garlic, pandan leaves, and coconut milk, which create distinctive combinations of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.

While stir-fried noodle specialty pad Thai — undoubtedly delicious — is one of Thai cuisine’s most famous dishes, there’s so much more to try. In fact, did you know that Thailand is home to four distinct regional cuisines? Continued …

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World Bank revises global economic growth forecast

A new World Bank report looking at global economic trends adjusts the projected expansion of the global economy this year to 2.1%, higher than the previously forecast figure of 1.7% in January but lower than the growth rate in 2022 of 3.1%. Continued …

Wheat Prices Jump Following Bombing Of Major Dam In Southern Ukraine

The bombing of a major dam in southern Ukraine sent global prices of wheat and corn higher early on Tuesday. Wheat prices gained 2.4% in early trading on Tuesday at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, to $6.39 a bushel. The cost of corn rose more than 1% (to $6.04 a bushel) and oats gained 0.73% ($3.46 per unit). Continued …

10 billion global population unsustainable, says climate envoy Kerry

U.S. special climate envoy John Kerry told AFP that the world’s population will not be tenable in 2050, when it is projected to hit nearly 10 billion, but refrained from asking Americans to give up steaks. Continued …

Arctic could be ice-free a decade earlier than thought

The Arctic Ocean’s ice cap will disappear in summer as soon as the 2030s and a decade earlier than thought, no matter how aggressively humanity draws down the carbon pollution that drives global warming, scientists said yesterday. Continued …

PGA Tour and LIV Golf merge to end golf’s ‘civil war’

The PGA Tour and DP World Tour announced on Tuesday that they have merged their commercial operations with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf and ended all litigation, bringing to a close the sport’s bitter two-year rift. 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

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