Year: 2021
- World News
Popular Malaysian singer/new mother dies from Covid
Yesterday, the popular Malaysian singer, Siti Sarah Raisuddin, died from Covid. Just days prior, the singer had given birth to her 4th child, Ayash Affan. Siti Sarah had previously experienced low oxygen levels and had to be put in a medically induced coma to help deliver her baby. The baby was delivered safely, however, the mother never got to hold…
Read More » - World News
Sewage into drinkable water, Singapore gets creative at finding water resources
Singapore has created a system for turning sewage into water clean enough for people to drink. The system also reduces pollution in the ocean. The island’s somewhat scarce natural water resources have forced it to rely on Malaysia for water for some time. Thus, the government decided to be more self-sufficient and develop this system which uses a network of…
Read More » - Travel Guides
Things you shouldn’t do in Thailand
Are you planning a trip or relocating to Thailand? Then you should know what you can and cannot do in the country. The Land of Smiles is a country with unique cultures and traditions that you’re probably unfamiliar with. Yes, Thais are very used to foreigners, and they’re very forgiving. However, that doesn’t mean that you can be careless and…
Read More » - Covid-19 News
Goverment mulls amnesty bill to protect “medical officials” from legal consequences
The government is pondering an amnesty bill that would grant medical officials connected with fighting Covid, legal protection against criminal charges to enable government operations/government officials to deal with the Covid situation. Also, the bill will allow the officials to make “tough decisions” sans legal consequences, says Thai government officials. The somewhat opaque announcement did not clarify what “criminal charges”…
Read More » - Northern Thailand News
560 kilograms of cannabis packaged for delivery seized by officers in Northeast
Officers in the Mekong Riverine Unit seized 560 kilograms of dried cannabis and arrested four people in the Isaan province Nakhon Phanom, bordering Laos. Some of the marijuana had been packaged and was ready to be sent out by a delivery service while other 404 kilograms of marijuana was found along the Mekong riverbank. A team from the unit searched…
Read More » - Covid-19 News
Only 6.7% of Thai population fully vaccinated, over 23% have received 1 dose
Just 6.7% of Thai residents are fully vaccinated against Covid-19, while over 23% have received their first dose. The figures were released by the Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Ministry, according to a Nation Thailand report. The southern island of Phuket is the only province where the majority of people have been fully vaccinated. The island launched its quarantine-free…
Read More » - Thailand video news
Good Morning Thailand | Daily deaths reach 235, CDC downgrades Thailand | August 10
Tim and Jay bring you up to date with all the main stories from around Thailand and get you ready for the day with the daily Good Morning Thailand. Plenty of main stories… The public health department has announced 235 Covid-related deaths in Thailand over the past 24 hours. Teerawat Thothip, the suspect accused of murder for the killing of…
Read More » - Covid-19 News
Thai soldier who bragged about getting Pfizer vaccine says he’s a nurse
A Thai army sergeant who announced he’d received a dose of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine has sparked temporary outrage on social media. Noppadon Maneechan, who is based in the north-eastern province of Loei, has had to defend his reputation and refute claims that Pfizer doses have been secretly administered to the military ahead of healthcare workers and high-risk members of…
Read More » - Thailand News
Police ‘ready’ to investigate Thailand arms dealer in plot to kill Myanmar UN envoy
Following the arrest of two Burmese men in the US who were allegedly working with an arms dealer in Thailand to attack, and potentially kill, Myanmar’s ambassador to the United Nations, the Royal Thai Police are preparing to assist in the investigation. The deputy spokesperson for the Thai police told reporters that the US has not contacted them, but they…
Read More » - Travel Guides
Top 10 hotels in Sukhumvit, Bangkok
Sukhumvit, Bangkok is one of the best places in which to stay in the capital as it is truly a haven for foreign visitors. Here, hotels have taken into account the nearby shopping and upscale bars, clubs, and restaurants when designing their accommodations. Guests can definitely feel right at home while being in the heart of the most trendy part…
Read More » - Phuket News
Over 14,000 foreign tourists avail of Phuket sandbox scheme during first month
The Tourism Authority of Thailand reports that Phuket welcomed over 14,000 foreign tourists, generating an estimated 829 million baht, during the first month of the island’s sandbox scheme. The Phuket sandbox was launched on July 1, allowing vaccinated foreign tourists from low-risk countries to visit the island without quarantine. Participants are required to stay in approved hotels and remain on…
Read More » - Things To Do
Top 5 scuba diving snorkelling tours in Samui
Koh Samui is home to many snorkelling and dive sites – each spectacular and unique. Its waters are rich in vibrant reefs, coral and marine life, thus offering memorable underwater experiences. Nowadays, these terrains are easier to explore than ever with the help of guided tours. This is why we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 scuba diving and snorkelling…
Read More » - Covid-19 News
US tells citizens to avoid travel to Thailand, upgrades country to highest warning level
While officials rush to restore Phuket’s reputation following the murder of a Swiss tourist, the eyes of the US government are on how Thailand is managing the pandemic (or not). According to a Bangkok Post report, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is warning citizens against travel to Thailand as Covid-19 infections and deaths continue to rise. The…
Read More » - Covid-19 News
Tuesday Covid Update: 19,843 new cases and 235 deaths
19,843 new Covid-19 cases and 235 coronavirus-related deaths were reported today by the Covid-19 Situation Administration. In the latest and most severe wave of the virus in Thailand, the CCSA has reported 767,088 Covid-19 infections. There are currently 211,223 people receiving treatment for the coronavirus. Out of the new cases, 398 were found in correctional facilities. The latest wave of…
Read More » - Things To Do
Phuket’s 5 best honeymoon resorts
Honeymooners can definitely enjoy their special time by staying in southern Thailand’s Phuket. Here, we have found the best hotels for couples as they truly focus on making your stay romantic and stress-free. With stunning ocean views and private rooms, those who have just taken their vows will truly enjoy the exclusivity of staying in one of these world-class resorts.…
Read More » - Covid-19 News
Medical expert calls for export of AstraZeneca doses to be suspended
A prominent medical expert has urged the government to stop exporting locally-produced doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine until Thailand has enough for its own people. Dr Prasert Auewarakul from Siriraj Hospital’s Faculty of Medicine says Thailand needs at least 10 million doses a month over the next 3 months. According to a Bangkok Post report, he says this period is…
Read More » - World News
Indigenous Brazilians accuse Jair Bolsonaro of genocide at ICC
President Jair Bolsonaro could become the first Brazilian to be tried at the International Criminal Court (ICC), The court received a request on Monday to investigate Bolsonaro’s alleged crimes against humanity and genocide against Indigenous peoples. It was filed by APIB, a coalition of Indigenous associations across Brazil. The extensive document sent to the ICC was drafted by Indigenous lawyers…
Read More » - World News
Crime Fighters: Out of the Shadows, Into the Light
In the city of Swangoly, somewhere in Africa, Jeremy faces persecution, violence and discrimination because of his sexual orientation. Meanwhile, the MP Celia was shot in a homophobic attack. With the perpetrators still at large, 19-year-old Jeremy feels unsafe and threatened. Even his own family struggles to provide him with understanding and support. This Crime Fighters audio drama exposes the…
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Out of the Shadows, Into the Light – Ep 04: Sana’s Secret
Things in the Lantaro family just keep going from bad to worse. Jeremy is determined to leave home to escape his family’s hostility, which started after he came out. Will his twin sister, Julie, manage to talk him round? SOURCE: DW News
Read More » - World News
India: New temple-mosque conflict brewing in Varanasi
It’s the afternoon call to prayer at the Gyanvapi mosque in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The handful of men there, kneeling, are dwarfed by the massive 17th century structure, their soft words nearly drowned out by the steady hum of the low ceiling fans. It’s a moment of peace and reflection, before the men step back out…
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How nationalism is driving Chinese trolls to target athletes
“I am sorry to you all,” said Liu Shiwen, a Chinese table tennis player who, along with her teammate, lost to the Japanese team in the sport’s mixed doubles’ competition at the Tokyo Olympics. She issued this tearful apology after losing the game, adding: “I feel like I have failed the team.” Liu is not the only Chinese athlete who…
Read More » - Thailand News
Wear a condom and a mask: Health department advises Covid “safe” sex
Wear a condom… and a face mask. Find a sex position that is not face-to-face. Don’t kiss. Avoid saliva… and other secretions. And make it short. That’s what Thailand’s Department of Health is advising. After a prostitute in Western Thailand contracted Covid-19, the department announced nine safe sex guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus. Along with no kissing, no…
Read More » - Things To Do
Top places to stream live football
Football is among the most popular sports in the world. From international friendly matches to La Liga, football fans worldwide are constantly looking forward to every form of football. While not everyone can make it to the stadium, especially during a global pandemic, anyone can enjoy live football as long as you have a stable internet connection. However, looking for…
Read More » - Thailand Travel
Thailand’s top 7 golf resorts
Golfing in Thailand is one of the most beautiful activities to try as the backdrop of a tropical jungle is truly magnificent. Moreover, the hotels in Thailand feature on-site golf courses that are definitely fit for a king. Here, even novice players can enjoy a game as riding around and viewing the scenery may be just as exciting as hitting…
Read More » - Thailand News
Thailand News Today | Bangkok protests erupt, Phuket murder update | August 9
Officials in Phuket are pulling out all stops in a bid to restore tourist confidence, following the murder of a 57 year old Swiss national last week. Following a Civil Court ruling against PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, Thai media organisations are calling on the government to abide by the court’s decision. Police have also arrested 14 other activists, who face charges…
Read More » - South Thailand News
Rubber plantation workers severely injured, man’s leg blown off after stepping on bomb
A man’s leg was blown off in a bomb explosion while he was working in a rubber plantation in Narathiwat, a province in Thailand’s Deep South near the Malaysia border where small bombings and attacks happen occasionally due to the religious separatist insurgency. A woman’s face was also injured in the explosion. The two were working in the rubber plantation…
Read More » - Guides
Top 5 suit tailors in Phuket
Need a nice set of formal wear that fits you perfectly? Fortunately, just like Bangkok, Phuket also has many suit tailors offering excellent services and bespoke suits comparable (if not better) to your average tailor outside of Thailand. Not to mention they’re very reasonably priced, depending on your vision of what your suit would look like. With so many to…
Read More » - Thailand video news
Good Morning Thailand | Phuket murder arrest, Covid wave peaked? | August 9
Plenty of weekend news following the arrest of a suspect in the murder of the 57 year old Swiss woman in Phuket. Covid numbers may have peaked as the heavy restrictions start to reap rewards. The Tokyo Games are over… did anyone notice? Jay and Tim get to your comments, and what do you think about the new T-shirts? Thanks…
Read More » - Things To Do
Top 5 Island Tours in Samui
Koh Samui has an abundance of tropical paradises to explore. Its many surrounding islands offer breathtaking scenery, serene beaches and ideal conditions for sailing, snorkelling, or simply relaxing. In addition, when travelling to these islands from Samui, journey times are relatively short. Thus, island-hopping is an easy feat and activities are remarkably varied. Listed below are the top 5 island tours…
Read More » - Covid-19 News
Monday Covid Update: 19,603 new cases; provincial totals
On a slightly downward trend, a total of 19,603 new Covid-19 cases and 149 coronavirus-related deaths were reported today by the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration. Out of the 776,108 Covid-19 infections recorded in Thailand since the start of the pandemic last year, the recent wave of the virus, first reported on April 1, has accounted for 747,245 of those…
Read More » - Guides
Pros and cons of living in Thailand
Thinking of moving or retiring in Thailand? Moving to another country can seem exciting, especially when you’re moving to a country as beautiful as Thailand. Living in a country filled with postcard-worthy islands, lush jungles, delicious food, eclectic nightlife, and interesting culture may sound like a dream. However, just like in any other part of the world, there are both…
Read More » - Covid-19 News
Chulalongkorn closes vaccine trial applications early as enough people sign up
The Faculty of Medicine at Bangkok’s Chulalongkorn University has closed volunteer applications for its Covid-19 vaccine trials as enough people have already signed up. Nation Thailand reports that the Chula Vaccine Research Centre closed applications ahead of schedule as it already has enough volunteers. The Thai vaccine candidate, named ChulaCov19, is an mRNA vaccine, which is expected to begin second-phase…
Read More » - Politics News
Media organisations call on government to obey court order on free speech
Following a Civil Court ruling against PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, Thai media organisations are calling on the government to abide by the court’s decision. Last Friday, the court ruled that the PM had overstepped his authority in banning the dissemination of news that could create public fear. In its ruling, the court found that the ban was too vague and therefore…
Read More » - World News
Belarus: Women as the drivers of protest
One year ago, on August 9, 2020, Alexander Lukashenko declared himself the winner of Belarus’ presidential elections. Massive nationwide protests ensued, which were followed by a seemingly unending wave of arrests, torture and intimidation of the participants. “I had the feeling that they would soon come for me as well,” says Anna Koval, who, along with other helpers, collected food,…
Read More » - Thailand Protest News
Political activist “Penguin” back in prison ahead of large protest tomorrow
Pro-democracy activist Parit Chiwarak, aka “Penguin”, has been re-arrested and imprisoned ahead of an important rally tomorrow. The Bangkok Post reports that Parit was detained on his arrival at Royal Thai Police headquarters yesterday following a summons issued on August 2. Parit faces charges related to graffiti that appeared outside a police office in the central province of Pathum Thani.…
Read More » - Environment News
Report contradicts Thai government’s claim that wild tiger numbers are increasing
A new report from the World Wildlife Fund says Thailand’s progress in doubling its wild tiger population by 2022 could be better. However, the findings are contradicted by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, with department boss Thanya Nethithammakul saying numbers have gone up from 166 in 2020 to 177 this year and that his staff are…
Read More » - Phuket News
Phuket officials rush to restore visitor confidence following tourist murder
Officials on the southern island of Phuket are pulling out all the stops in a bid to restore tourist confidence, following the murder of Swiss national Nicole Sauvain-Weisskopf last week. The victim, who’d been visiting Phuket under the island’s sandbox scheme, was found dead at Ao Yon waterfall last Thursday. The Bangkok Post reports that the murder has left local…
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