- Beachfront demolition to start tomorrow/More public loudspeakers for Hua Hin/Thai teen Nene Royal wins AGT 2026 title/Nene revisits ‘Seven Nation Army’/Nene Royal’s ‘Rock Strong — Red Commander’ look/PTT Station and Bangchak raise standard diesel/Sitthichai bids farewell as PKK governor/Heavy rain likely across Thailand/86% of Thais dream of a luxurious retirement
- THE IRAN WAR: Brent rises 3.86%/Navy says 8 sailors attempted suicide
- ECONOMY: Investing in Thai secondary cities could lift GDP/ADB raises Thailand’s forecast /ASEAN urged to unite and build resilience/Mars makes Thailand Pringles export hub
- TOURISM: Thai budget airlines squeezed/AirAsia’s Thai carriers plan 53 routes/Americans Are Leaving the U.S. for Medical Care/Khao San Road faces glum high season
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Where to Stay in Chiang Rai
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Environmental impact assessment for data centers/’Super’ El Niño could cause 451,000 excess deaths/Bangkok Car Free day
- FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Beachfront buildings demolition to start tomorrow
Demolition work is scheduled to begin tomorrow on a stretch of Hua Hin’s waterfront, between the fishing pier and Chao Mae Thap Thim Shrine. The planned demolition is the latest stage in a dispute dating back at least to 2002. It concerns homes, seafood restaurants, guesthouses and other buildings along a roughly 400-meter stretch of beachfront, with some structures extending over the sea.
According to the municipal demolition notice, the buildings stand on state-owned public land designated for common use. Its owner challenged orders prohibiting the building’s use and requiring its demolition, but the Supreme Administrative Court dismissed the claims. Those judgments are final. – HHT
More public loudspeakers planned for Hua Hin
The Hua Hin municipality is considering installing more wireless loudspeakers to help local news and announcements reach communities without the system and areas where residents have requested additional coverage.
The proposal was discussed at a meeting chaired by Deputy Mayor Atichat Chaisri at Hua Hin Municipal Office yesterday. The meeting followed visits to all 30 existing loudspeaker locations, where officials gathered residents’ views and adjusted the direction of the speakers to better meet local needs. Continued …
Thai teen Nene Royal wins AGT 2026 title
Nene Royal, the 16-year-old Thai rocker from Phuket, has been crowned the winner of America’s Got Talent (AGT) 2026, claiming a million-dollar first prize after an unforgettable run that captured hearts worldwide.
A day after setting the stage alight with Seven Nation Army in the final round, Nene prevailed over nine other contestants in online fan voting to capture the prize, a potential launching pad for an international career. Continued …
Whether you like heavy metal rock or not, you can’t deny this girl’s talent. Nene Royal’s AGT finals performance
Nene revisits ‘Seven Nation Army’, the White Stripes hit that became a global stadium anthem
Thai singer and guitarist Nene Royal gave The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” a heavier interpretation in the America’s Got Talent (AGT) season 21 final in the United States. The 16-year-old from Phuket brought forceful vocals and guitar playing to a song whose journey began at an Australian soundcheck more than two decades ago.
Nene’s AGT final performance drew a standing ovation from the audience and judges. Guest judge KSI described the performance as “out of this world” and “insane”. Continued …
Nene Royal brings her mother’s vision to life in her ‘Rock Strong — Red Commander’ look
Nene Royal brought Bangkok’s Ban Krua handwoven silk to the America’s Got Talent (AGT) 2026 final in a red costume inspired by her mother’s imagination. The Thai performer, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, wore the outfit during the final performance show broadcast.
Named “Rock strong – red commander”, the costume combined Thai textile craftsmanship with leather and metal details, translating a family idea into a stage look designed to convey strength, confidence and elegance. Continued …
PTT Station and Bangchak raise standard diesel by 0.75 baht a liter
PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR), which operates PTT Station, and Bangchak Corp. raised standard diesel and B20 prices in Thailand by 0.75 baht a liter from today. PTT Station and Bangchak kept petrol and gasohol prices unchanged.
PTT Station’s price notice confirms the 0.75-baht increase for standard diesel and B20, while premium diesel remains unchanged. The following Bangkok retail prices apply from today and exclude local maintenance tax. Continued …
Sitthichai bids farewell as governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan
Sittichai Sawatsaen, the governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, summarized his achievements over the past nearly two years before retiring from public service, highlighting success in five dimensions of comprehensive quality of life development.
He expressed delight at attracting over 5.7 million tourists in the first half of 2026, ranking the province among the top six in the country. He also announced plans to improve pineapple prices and proceed with the permanent opening of the Singkhon border crossing, laying the foundation for Prachuap Khiri Khan to become a sustainable and livable tourist destination. Continued …
Heavy rain likely across Thailand until weekend
Isolated heavy to very heavy rain is forecast over Thailand until Sunday, according to the Meteorological Department, which has urged people to follow weather updates from official sources after an online panic over a “great flood”.
An active low-pressure cell over Vietnam’s central coast is expected to move over the lower northeast, east and central plains of Thailand, including Bangkok and vicinity, while the monsoon trough lies across upper Thailand. Continued …
86% of Thais dream of a luxurious retirement, but 75% risk running out of money before they die
A survey reveals that Thais are sparking thought-provoking discussions on “flexible retirement,” disregarding the traditional 60-year retirement age, but warning of the risk of financial insufficiency.
An in-depth analysis shows that over half of Thais want to retire early, driving a surge in “micro-retirement” and “unretirement” trends. However, a shocking gap emerges – 75% still cling to cash and savings accounts, lacking investment knowledge and risking running out of money before death. Continued …
Brent rises 3.86% as Iran rejects surrender
Brent crude settled 3.86% higher at US$103.08 a barrel after volatile trading yesterday, as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected surrender to the United States while maintaining his support for diplomacy.
Brent futures gained US$3.83 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose US$1.64, or 1.81%, to finish at US$92.16. Both benchmarks had traded at lower levels as increased Middle Eastern supplies and hopes of a US-Iran peace agreement weighed on prices. Continued …
Navy says 8 sailors attempted suicide aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln
Acting U.S. Navy Secretary Hung Cao said that eight sailors assigned to the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group attempted suicide during its lengthy deployment in the Middle East.
The Lincoln, currently en route to its home port of San Diego after a five-day port call in Bangkok, has been deployed for more than 300 days and will likely remain at sea for another two weeks before returning to the United States. The aircraft carrier’s current deployment began on Nov. 21, 2025. Continued …
World Bank says investing in Thai secondary cities could lift GDP per capita 12.4% by 2050
The World Bank urged Thailand to strengthen secondary cities alongside Bangkok to help achieve high-income status by 2037. Its modeling shows that directing 80% of a US$20 billion urban investment envelope to secondary cities could lift national gross domestic product (GDP) per capita 12.4% above a no-investment baseline by 2050.
The World Bank launched “Thailand Cities of the Future: Urban Foundations for a High-Income Economy”. whuch examines how urban development can support Thailand’s economic transformation. Continued …
ADB raises Thailand’s 2026 growth forecast to 2% on tech exports
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has raised its forecast for Thailand’s economic growth in 2026 to 2.0% from the 1.8% projected in July, supported by technology and electronics exports and a strong global investment cycle in artificial intelligence (AI). Growth is forecast at 1.9% in 2027.
The September 2026 update of the Asian Development Outlook also raises growth projections to 5.0% for developing Asia and the Pacific and 4.7% for developing Southeast Asia. Continued …
ASEAN urged to unite and build resilience as global trade shifts
ASEAN must remain united while strengthening its resilience and ability to create value within the region, as geopolitical rivalry, tariffs and technological competition reshape global trade, two senior Thai policy figures told the Southeast Asia Trade and Development Forum 2026.
Speaking at the forum yesterday, Supachai Panitchpakdi warned that economic policy was increasingly being used as an instrument of geopolitical competition, while Piyanuch Wuttisorn, vice minister for commerce, set out three priorities for helping ASEAN respond to the changing global environment. Continued …
Mars makes Thailand Pringles export hub
Mars is expanding its presence in Asia by establishing Thailand as a strategic production and export hub for its Pringles brand. The company recently opened a new factory in Chon Buri, located within the Eastern Economic Corridor, to serve markets in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa.
This expansion involves a significant investment of more than 7 billion baht to support the company’s long-term commitment to the region. The Chon Buri facility, which covers 37,000 square meters, serves as the second production line launched by the company to boost capacity and support new export markets. This strategic move is designed to allow Mars to respond more flexibly to demand and streamline product lines across various global markets.
Thai budget airlines squeezed as jet fuel jumps 7.4% to US$194.90 a barrel
AirAsia and other budget airlines serving Thailand are facing renewed pressure on costs and cash flow after the global average jet fuel price rose 7.4% to US$194.90 a barrel in the week ending Sept. 18. The increase is particularly difficult for carriers that sold tickets before fuel costs surged.
The latest price was 116.5% above its level a year earlier, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States recorded the highest regional average, at US$207.56 a barrel. Continued …
AirAsia’s Thai carriers plan 53 routes to 46 cities for high season
Thai AirAsia and Thai AirAsia X will resume temporarily suspended international services and increase flight frequencies in the fourth quarter of 2026, offering direct flights to as many as 46 cities across 53 routes to meet year-end travel demand.
Tansita Akrarittipirom, head of commercial at Thai AirAsia, said the airlines were preparing for the October-December high season after reducing frequencies and temporarily suspending some routes during the third quarter. Those adjustments reflected travel demand and rising fuel prices, helping to keep operating costs under control. Continued …
Americans Are Leaving the U.S. for Medical Care. Here’s Where They’re Going
Millions of Americans travel worldwide every year for medical care. These aren’t just aesthetic procedures; they’re also essential healthcare and life-saving treatments. Many destinations are known for high-quality, relatively affordable healthcare systems, which motivates Americans struggling to pay for similar procedures in the U.S.
Thailand is one option destination where medical tourism is booming. Americans are traveling to Southeast Asia to get full-body checkups, dental treatments, and highly specialized cardiac or hip replacement surgeries. Multi-specialty hospitals in Bangkok cater to an international clientele, so language is not a barrier, and many are accredited internationally, minimizing risks for foreign patients. Continued …
Bangkok’s Khao San Road faces glum high season
The Middle East conflict is hindering the long-haul tourism market, specifically affecting backpackers who frequent Khao San Road. This disruption is causing lower-than-expected forward bookings for accommodations in the area, leading to fears of an unproductive high season for local operators.
In addition, the new cannabis control bill threatens Khao San Road businesses by introducing strict regulations that could force more than 50% of local operators out of business. The Khao San Road Business Assn. expects these measures to significantly impact the area, which typically sees a high occupancy rate during the third quarter.
Where to Stay in Chiang Rai: 3 Best Areas & Hotels
Planning a trip to Chiang Rai and wondering which part of the city is best to stay in? We’ve got you covered! We loved how laid-back Chiang Rai felt compared to some of Thailand’s bigger cities, but there’s still plenty to see here, from colorful temples and night markets to mountain scenery. Although the city itself is fairly compact, where you stay can make a big difference to how easy it is to get around.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the three best areas to stay in Chiang Rai, including what’s nearby and the hotels we recommend at different price points. Whether you want to be right in the center or somewhere quieter, we’ll help you choose the best base for your trip. Continued …
Thai bill to require environmental impact assessment for data centers
A draft bill on the operation of digital infrastructure services would regulate data centers, cloud services and digital platforms. Operators would need a license from the Minister of Digital Economy and Society, while the rules for applying for, issuing, suspending and revoking licenses for each type of business would be set out in ministerial regulations.
For data centers, the proposals cover project locations, environmental and health impact assessments, electricity and water supplies, and data storage in Thailand. The draft leaves several key numerical thresholds unspecified, so secondary legislation will need to be examined before the costs for individual projects can be assessed. Continued …
‘Super’ El Niño could cause 451,000 excess deaths, researchers say
Extreme heat caused by this year’s “super-El Niño” could result in as many as 451,000 excess deaths across the globe from June this year to February 2027, researchers with the University of Chicago’s Climate Impact Lab said yesterday. The number of extremely hot days is likely to rise by 44% compared to normal years, Climate Impact Lab said.
The country likely to suffer the most excess heat-related fatalitiesis Nigeria with 31,400, followed by Indonesia with 19,300 and Sudan with 17,600. The researchers project the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia to see an additional 19,400 deaths combined. Continued …
Bangkok Car Free 2026 encourages residents to switch travel modes
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) joined forces with all sectors on Tuesday, inviting network partners to adopt new ways of traveling under the concept “Car keys stay at home; leave home without a car”.
It encouraged people to enjoy a range of travel options through “Let’s Shift Modes”, bringing together road and rail transport, boat services, cycling and walking throughout the week. Continued …
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Canadian held in Chiang Mai Brit’s rape case – Continued …
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Chinese men arrested on rape and extortion charges after Pattaya raid – Continued …
Trump and Xi meet after two-month trade truce extension
US President Donald Trump is hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House in Washington today for their second summit of the year. A two-month extension of their tariff truce gives the countries more time for trade negotiations, while Taiwan, Iran and artificial intelligence (AI) remain central issues. Continued …
Thousands still missing a month after Nepal floods
The tsunami-like flood that cut a swathe of destruction through Nepal on Aug. 26 has left the Himalayan nation grappling with heavy losses and mounting reconstruction needs. On Aug. 26 at 8.37 am, a mass of ice and rock broke away from the north face of Nepal’s Langtang Lirung mountain, sending a huge mass of debris racing down the valley. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
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
Personnel from the USS Abraham Lincoln have reportedly been prohibited from entering Pattaya Soi 6 and Soi 7 after sunset as part of safety rules imposed during the aircraft carrier’s port call in Chonburi.
Hordes of US sailors were up early yesterday as they set out to explore this tourist city on their second day of shore leave. They began their explorations on Wednesday night, with many making a beeline for the famous Walking Street to soak up the atmosphere.
Behind the neon signs of Thailand’s vast nightlife industry, HIV remains a deadly and deeply entrenched threat. Prostitutes and customers increasingly arrange paid sex through websites, applications and private messages. They then meet inside hotels, rented rooms or homes, bypassing medical checks once imposed through established sex venues.
Thailand has formally removed the foreign business license requirement for seven specified service activities, under a new ministerial regulation published by the Royal Gazette yesterday.
Asia still accounts for roughly half of global GDP on a purchasing-power-parity basis, and multilateral forecasters expect that share to keep inching up even as headline growth rates cool. The World Trade Organization sees Asia-Pacific trade growth slipping to 3.8% in 2026 from 4.1%, and the Asian Development Bank’s most recent outlook points to a similar moderation across the region.
Thailand’s ambition to become a global hub for wellness tourism and preventive healthcare is being held back not by a shortage of talent or infrastructure, but by regulation that has failed to keep pace with a rapidly evolving industry, according to senior executives and experts who spoke at the Bangkok Business Summit 2026 yesterday.
Thai Navy schedules four September royal barge rehearsals
Thailand’s ‘Jurassic Park’ shines light on dinosaur evolution
Gallothai: Three Decades of Chocolate Craftsmanship
InterContinental Hua Hin Resort has been named The Most Favorite Pet-Friendly Hotel at the 16th AROUND AWARDS 2026. The annual awards, organized as part of AROUND Magazine’s 16th anniversary, recognize hotels, restaurants and lifestyle businesses across Thailand.
Thailand has recorded 21,620 dengue infections and 31 deaths so far this year, as the seasonal outbreak continues to gather pace, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) said yesterday.
Thai police say they arrested suspects in 7,261 firearms-related cases and seized 7,872 guns during a nationwide 15-day crackdown between Aug. 12-26.
Pattaya is preparing for the influx of US Navy personnel when the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and two accompanying vessels are scheduled to dock at Laem Chabang from Sept. 2-6.
American money, military spending and technical assistance helped Thailand build roads, airports and modern institutions while neighboring states faced wars. The transformation brought rapid growth, but also strengthened military rule and widened social inequality.
New vehicle sales in Thailand increased by over 20% to 59,196 units in July, up from 49,102 units a year earlier, according to the latest data released by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
For two decades, Thailand was regarded as a sure-fire success story in the Asian travel industry. In 2019, the last year before the pandemic, just under 40 million international visitors traveled to the country, generating revenue of around three trillion baht.
Passengers heading to Suvarnabhumi Airport face seven months of traffic diversions on the elevated roads serving the passenger terminal, starting on Aug.31. The maintenance program will run until April 7, 2027, affecting elevated access routes to and from the terminal, which connect with Motorway No. 7, the Bangkok-Chonburi route.
Thailand’s passport has been ranked 99th worldwide by Passport Reports, with a mobility score of 93. The assessment places Thailand fifth among the 11 ASEAN countries and 21st among 50 Asian countries assessed.
A Glimpse of Solar Energy in Thailand
Thailand’s move toward cleaner energy is putting greater pressure on the country’s electricity network to accommodate more renewable power while maintaining reliability, affordability and system stability.
Since Aug. 12, any Thai exporter shipping packaged goods into the EU has technically fallen under the bloc’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) – whether they know it or not.
As the world shifts toward a greener future, Thailand’s Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) is stepping up to ensure Thai businesses don’t just survive, but thrive.
Thailand is facing a double crisis: an overwhelming volume of illegally dumped hazardous waste and a deadly climate of intimidation against activists trying to stop it.
The collapse of the lower section of a Himalayan glacier may have unleashed the ice, rock and sediment that caused catastrophic flooding near Nepal’s border with Tibet, although experts have not established why the glacier failed. Satellite images indicated that part of the glacier broke away at an altitude of about 5,200 meters before plunging approximately 1,200 meters onto the valley floor. 
Philippe Meranger just finished his grocery shopping in Montreal. The 61-year-old held several products under his arm as he said: “Tariffs hurt our economy, but they force us to buy Canadian. And I’m all for that.” 
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s commercialhub, is proposing to gradually restrict gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles from its downtown area from mid-2027 as part of a planned low-emission zone (LEZ). Under the proposal, the city would pilot the LEZ from July 2027 in its core downtown area and the new Thu Thiem urban area, which covers roughly 930 hectares (3.59 square miles).