Memorial Sunday for American/Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi sponsors youth football/Miss Grand PKK may get her title back/Thailand faces fresh flood fears/Flooding in 16 provinces/Massive Road Collapse n Bangkok/New ride-sharing rules/ECONOMY: Senate Sends Casino Plan Packing/Cheaper fares and 60 billion baht stimulus/Thai vehicle production falls/Gen Z favors Thai products/TOURISM: Can Tourism Help Save Itself?/7.4% y/y drop in foreign visitors/Assurance sought on Land Bridge/TAT woos Chinese tourists/Air India Express Bangkok to Bengaluru/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Dining Solo At Thai Restaurants/Bangkok restaurants to recommend/Top destinations this October/CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar Projects in Sattahip/New electricity supply model/Oil exploration in Andaman/Toxin levels rise in Kok River/Thailand 3rd in ASEAN e-waste generation/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS
Memorial planned Sunday for American found dead in Cha-am
The hash community is holding a gathering to remember James, an American who was found dead in Cha-am this past weekend, after having been reported missing for seveal weeks. The event will raise some money for his widow. The event will start around 4:45 PM on Sunday at the beach access behind the 7-11/Amazon complex in Khao Takiab town, accepting donations of Bt200 a head. Location.
At about 5 PM there will be a run/walk. After the run/walk, some water and soft drinks, and a few cases of beer, will be available.
According to one friend, “He was a really nice, happy, energetic and intelligent guy, and was friends with people all across the spectrum, from local petanque champions to the pub quiz crowd to the dog rescue folks and on, you name it. We genuinely do miss having him around, so we wanted to have one event between all of us to celebrate our friend and do what we can for his wife.”
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi sponsors local youth football club
As part of its ongoing commitment to empower Thai youth through sports, Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas is championing youth sports by sponsoring local youth football club PP United.
Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi initially donated Bt4,000 to help provide essential training resources for 40 young athletes, including sports equipment, apparel, coverage for competition fees, and travel and accommodation support during tournaments. Earlier this year, the resort also provided financial assistance to the football team at Paknampran School. Continued …
Miss Grand Prachuap Khiri Khan may get her title back
The head of Miss Grand Thailand is considering reinstating the crown to a former beauty queen who was stripped of her title on Sunday over explicit videos and images from her past.
The Miss Grand Thailand 2026 competition announced the removal of 27-year-old Suphannee “Baby” Noinonthong, the representative from Prachuap Khiri Khan province, on Sunday. Her title was revoked just one day after she was crowned on Saturday. Continued …
Typhoon Ragasa fuels storms as Thailand faces fresh flood fears
Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD)has warned residents nationwide of heavy rain, thunderstorms and rough seas as the monsoon trough and a nearby typhoon intensify.
The TMD warned that the north and northeast remain under the influence of the monsoon trough, while the southwest monsoon is prevailing over the Andaman Sea, Gulf of Thailand, and much of the southern, central and eastern regions. Officials urged residents in the upper country to be on alert for flash floods and river overflows, particularly near foothills and lowlands. Continued …
Flooding in 16 provinces reported, impacting 200,000+, with 4 fatalities
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reported yesterday) that 16 provinces remain affected by flooding, covering 63 districts, 372 subdistricts, and 2,077 villages. A total of 74,972 households, or 251,382 people, have been impacted, with 4 fatalities reported: 1 in Phetchabun, 1 in Phichit, and 2 in Ayutthaya.
In the Chao Phraya River basin, following adjustments to water discharge from the Chao Phraya Dam, floodwaters have overflowed the riverbanks, affecting 8 provinces in central Thailand: Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, and Nakhon Pathom. Continued …
Massive Road Collapse Near Hospital in Bangkok Triggers Evacuation
A road collapsed yesterday to a depth of 50 meters near Bangkok’s Vajira Hospital, prompting On Tuesday morning (September 24, 2025), Dusit district authorities announced the immediate closure of traffic from Vajira intersection to Sanghi intersection and the surrounding areas after a section of Samsen Road severely subsided, damaging nearby utilities and posing risks to commuters.
At around 7am, traffic police from Samsen station reported that the road surface in front of Vajira Hospital had collapsed, causing a burst water pipe. Authorities shut down traffic to allow urgent repairs. Continued …
New ride-sharing rules present some roadblocks
Thailand plans to enforce new regulations for ride-hailing platforms in October, aiming to enhance safety, transparency, and reliability for passengers, drivers, and platform operators.
The announcement made by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) assigns additional responsibilities to ride-sharing platforms involving public cars and motorcycles that have specific characteristics defined by the Digital Platform Service law. Continued …
Thai Senate Sends Casino Plan Packing, Cites High Risks
Thailand’s Senate has decisively rejected the bill to create integrated entertainment complexes with casinos, citing severe concerns about societal impact, economic disruption, and national security threats. This bill, backed by the administration of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was scrutinized by a special Senate committee, resulting in a damning report that warned of increased money-laundering risks and the potential erosion of public trust.
The evaluation urged that any future casino legalization efforts require public input via a national referendum. Sen. Sornchat Vichaya Suwannaprom proposed forming a new study group to explore alternative models, such as complexes without casinos or tightly regulated casino zones, using international examples like Sydney’s tourist-only casino access as a potential template. Continued …
Cheaper fares and 60 billion baht stimulus boost planned
The government announced a two-phase transport plan aimed at cutting travel costs and easing living expenses, with fare and subsidy details expected soon.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced a short-term, four-month initiative to cut public transport costs, covering electric rail fares, bus services, and expressway fees. Specific details are expected within a week, while long-term strategies are also being drafted. Continued …
Thai vehicle production falls
The Automotive Industry Club of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) yesterday reported on August 2025 production, domestic sales, and exports of cars and motorcycles in Thailand:
Total vehicle production in August 2025 reached 112,366 units, up 1.6% from July but down 6.1% from August 2024 due to a 10.7% decline in exports. Domestic production rose 4.1%, driven by increased electric vehicle (EV) output replacing imported EVs from 2022-2023. From January to August 2025, total production was 947,697 units, a 5.8% decrease from the same period in 2024. Continued …
Gen Z favors Thai products while working adults turn away
Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), revealed the findings of a nationwide survey conducted in August 2025 involving 5,467 respondents. The study examined Thai consumers’ preferences for domestic products across categories.
The survey showed that Thai products remain popular overall, particularly in the food and beverage sector, which retained the highest level of consumer preference. Meanwhile, beauty and fashion items are gaining increasing traction, especially among younger generations, with strong potential for further growth in the years ahead. Continued …
Can Tourism Help Save the Places It Endangers?
On Maya Bay in Thailand, the turquoise water once shimmered like a screensaver. But after the movie “The Beach” put the small cove on the global map 25 years ago, boatloads of tourists came chasing the fantasy. The heavy crowds contributed to cloudy water, crumbling coral reefs, and catastrophic drops in fish populations. Officials now close the bay for two months each year to allow the ecosystem to recover.
The pattern extends far beyond Thailand. In Iceland, a country of just 380,000 residents, nearly 2.3 million tourists arrived in 2024, leaving its volcanic landscapes scarred by erosion and overuse. In the Galápagos Islands, nearly 330,000 visitors prompted officials to double entry fees in an effort to protect fragile habitats from mounting pressure. And on Mount Kilimanjaro, increasing numbers of trekkers have left trails eroded and litter-strewn, prompting stricter regulations on climbing expeditions. Continued …
Thailand records 7.4% y/y drop in foreign visitors so far in 2025
Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals from Jan. 1 to Sept. 21 fell 7.4% from the same period a year earlier, the Tourism Ministry said yesterday. There were about 23.45 million foreign visitors during the period. Malaysia was the largest source market with 3.38 million visitors, followed by China with 3.3 million.
In August, the state planning agency cut its forecast for foreign tourist arrivals this year to 33 million from 37 million. There was a record of nearly 40 million visitors in 2019, before the pandemic. – Reuters
Assurance sought by tourism operators on land bridge impact
Southern tourism operators want the government to ensure the environmental impact will be minimal if it intends to press on with the land bridge megaproject, as locals hope the scheme will enhance southern cities’ competitiveness and increase household income.
The government under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has vowed to proceed with the project that connects shipping routes between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea with deep-sea ports, even though the government’s tenure is likely only four months. Continued …
TAT woos Chinese tourists with stars and shopping perks
Thailand has launched a tourism campaign to attract more Chinese visitors, enlisting popular actors and offering perks as part of cultural celebrations.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officially launched the Nihao Month initiative this month, running until the Chinese New Year in 2026. The campaign marks the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese relations and is timed to capture visitor traffic during China’s Golden Week holiday before sustaining momentum into the year-end. Continued …
Air India Express launches daily Bangkok link from Bengaluru
Air India Express will launch daily direct flights linking Bengaluru and Bangkok, offering travelers more convenience and competitive fares.
The new non-stop service begins on Oct. 18 and aims to boost connectivity for both leisure and business travelers. To mark the launch, the airline has rolled out introductory fares starting at 16,800 Indian rupees (about 7,300 baht) for a round trip. One-way fares are priced at 9,000 rupees (Bengaluru–Bangkok) and 8,850 rupees (Bangkok–Bengaluru). Continued …
Why Dining Solo At Thai Restaurants Can Feel Like A Mistake
One of the joys of Thai dining is discovering the variety of dishes available. Think rich coconut curries, fiery papaya salads, and fragrant soups. But when dining solo, your appetite can hinder the experience. One entrée and a mound of rice is usually plenty, which means you’ll miss out on the diversity of flavors — and that can feel like a huge mistake.
You see, Thai food isn’t built for the one-dish-at-a-time approach many Western diners are used to. In Thailand, meals are shared family-style. Several dishes hit the table at once, and everyone takes small portions from each. The dishes generally complement one another, balancing sweet, spicy, sour, and salty elements. Many Thai restaurants design their menus with this communal format in mind, with some offering portions meant for two or more. Continued …
Bangkok restaurants you’ll want to recommend again and again
Almost every Bangkokian has been there: your friends are visiting, and they start texting you weeks in advance, asking for your top recommendations. “Where shall I eat? What are the best Thai restaurants and food in Bangkok? Send me all your Bangkok food recommendations!”
Some of us end up recommending the same places over and over again, while others set out to really tailor to specific needs. This list aims to incorporate everyone from first-timers and picky eaters, all the way to adventurous pla raa regulars. Continued …
Top destinations to visit in Thailand this October
October marks the transition between Thailand’s rainy and cool seasons, offering travelers a unique blend of lush landscapes and vibrant cultural festivals. From mystical fireballs on the Mekong to serene mountain escapes, this month is one of the most enchanting times to explore the country.
One of the most iconic events is the Lotus Receiving Festival at Wat Bang Phli Yai in Samut Prakan, held from Sept. 30 to Oct. 8 Locals gather to toss lotus flowers onto a boat carrying a revered Buddha image, believing their wishes will be granted. The festival also features boat races, floating alms offerings, and bustling market stalls. Continued …
PEA and Navy Launch Solar Projects in Sattahip
The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) has signed an agreement with the Royal Thai Navy to advance renewable energy projects in Sattahip. The initiative involves installing floating solar and ground-mounted solar farms across six naval sites, with a combined capacity of no less than 9,230 kWp.
The project will provide electricity generated on-site through solar systems integrated with a digital platform, allowing energy usage analysis and efficient power management. This approach is expected to reduce utility costs for the participating naval units while supporting national energy sustainability goals. Continued …
Panel urged to adopt new electricity supply model
Energy experts appointed to sit on a panel tasked with drafting a new power development plan (PDP) are being urged to reform the nation’s electricity supply policy. Thailand has long utilised the enhanced single buyer (ESB) system. The ESB system allows the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to be the sole purchaser that sells electricity to the public.
If power companies want to sell electricity produced by renewable resources at present, they are required to sell it to EGAT and state power distribution agencies, which then distribute electricity via the grid to companies and households. Continued …
Oil exploration planned for Andaman
Energy authorities are planning to call for bids for petroleum exploration and production in the Andaman Sea during the new government’s tenure to increase Thai extraction levels.
They are working on the details of the Round 26 auction, preparing to announce an application date for prospective bidders, said an official at the Department of Mineral Fuels who requested anonymity. Continued …
Toxin levels rise in Kok River
A Senate committee has warned of worsening arsenic and heavy metal contamination in the Kok River in Chiang Rai from mines in Myanmar’s Shan State.
The committee sounded the alarm after severe contamination levels of both were detected in the river, traced to mining operations in Shan State. It described this as a cross-border environmental crisis with serious economic and health consequences. Continued …
Thailand ranks 3rd in ASEAN for highest e-waste generation
Thailand produces 439,000 tons of electronic waste each year, behind Indonesia and the Philippines, as the region’s e-waste climbs to 12.3 million tons.
When it comes to “Zero Waste,” many people still wonder whether separating rubbish really makes a difference – or if, in the end, everything simply gets mixed again. The answer, according to Saichon Supmakudom, head of corporate communications and public affairs at Advanced Info Service (AIS), is no. Continued …
- Naked Foreign Man Goes Wild in Phuket and Strangles Cop – Continued …
- Korean scam gang in Pattaya busted for 478 million baht fraud haul – Continued …
- Foreign Guides Arrested Over Illegal E-Bike Tours on Phangan – Continued …
Super typhoon Ragasa hits Hong Kong after battering Philippines and Taiwan
Super typhoon Ragasa has caused severe devastation in the Philippines and Taiwan, leaving many dead, injured, and missing, before bearing down on Hong Kong and southern China. Continued …
Trump says Kyiv can win back ‘all of Ukraine’ in major shift
US President Donald Trump said yesterday that Ukraine could win back all of its territory from Russia – and even go further – in a major pivot after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The astonishing turnaround came shortly after Trump also called for NATO countries to shoot down any Russian jets that violate their airspace. Continued …
Trump attacks UN and Europe in scathing speech
dent Donald Trump blasted the United Nations and Europe on his return to the world body yesterday, warning that migration is sending Western nations “to hell” and dismissing climate change as a “con job.” Continued …
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Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort helps plant 500 new mangroves
IEAT sets new record in selling, leasing land in industrial estates
B.Grimm Power drives Thailand’s sustainable energy future
