Year: 2024

  • Crime NewsBangkok police seize 40,000 meth pills in Sai Mai district bust

    Bangkok police seize 40,000 meth pills in Sai Mai district bust

    A significant drug bust occurred today when police apprehended a 32 year old man with a shipment of 40,000 methamphetamine pills in Bangkok’s Sai Mai district. The arrest took place in a desolate area within Soi Sukhaphiban 5 Soi 32, following a covert investigation that linked the drug dealer, Teerapong, to the distribution of drugs to local retailers. The arrest…

    Read More »
  • Tourism NewsThailand’s foreign tourism boom: 10 million visitors fuel 500 billion windfall

    Thailand’s foreign tourism boom: 10 million visitors fuel 500 billion windfall

    Thailand has welcomed over 10 million foreign tourists this year alone, leading to revenue exceeding 500 billion baht, reported the Tourism and Sports Ministry. The data, up to date as of yesterday, shows 10,723,953 foreign visitors have contributed to an income of 518 billion baht (US$14 billion). Chinese tourists led the pack with over 2 million visitors, followed by 1.39…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsNakhon Ratchasima farmer wins 12 million baht lottery

    Nakhon Ratchasima farmer wins 12 million baht lottery

    A timely stroke of luck has befallen a widowed farmer in Nakhon Ratchasima as he won a staggering 12 million baht in the lottery, with plans to generously donate a boat to a local rowing club because of his grandchild’s national team success. Manat Samleeklang, a 58 year old widowed farmer, yesterday, April 16, experienced a life-changing moment when he…

    Read More »
  • Things To DoBangkok’s hidden delights: Unique and unmissable things to do in Bangkok

    Bangkok’s hidden delights: Unique and unmissable things to do in Bangkok

    Bangkok is bursting at the seams with an abundance of temples, museums, restaurants, music venues, parks, and malls that one could spend a lifetime exploring without checking off everything on their bucket list. But while the list of attractions in this lively metropolis seems never-ending, there are some hidden gems that offer a taste of Bangkok’s unique side. From dazzling…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsForeign man drowns while retrieving water gun in canal in Bangkok

    Foreign man drowns while retrieving water gun in canal in Bangkok

    A foreign man drowned while reportedly retrieving his water gun in the Saen Saep Canal in Bangkok during the Songkran Festival on April 14. His nationality wasn’t specified. Phayathai Police Station officers were notified about the drowning near Pratunam Pier in the Saen Saep Canal on the evening of April 14. Then, police officers rushed to the scene with volunteer…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsChiang Mai Zoo splashes 29 million baht on renovated aquarium

    Chiang Mai Zoo splashes 29 million baht on renovated aquarium

    Chiang Mai Zoo proudly unveiled its renovated aquarium following a substantial financial investment of over 29 million baht. The refurbishment of this unique mountain-based aquarium, the first of its kind in Thailand, is projected to draw an increased number of visitors. Wuthichai Muangman, the zoo’s director, shared that Attapon Srihayrun, the director-general of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand (ZPO),…

    Read More »
  • Pattaya NewsNearly 100k return to Bangkok post-Songkran via public transport

    Nearly 100k return to Bangkok post-Songkran via public transport

    The acting director and president of Transport Company Ltd made a public announcement yesterday, disclosing the substantial numbers of citizens returning to Bangkok after the Songkran festival. Between April 15 and 17, passenger logs recorded more than 99,995 individuals making their round trips using public buses and vans. The total number of trips during this period exceeded 6,689. Atthawit Rakchamroon…

    Read More »
  • Crime NewsRoad dispute in Mueang escalates into shooting, two kids injured

    Road dispute in Mueang escalates into shooting, two kids injured

    A road dispute escalated into a shooting incident in Mueang, Pathum Thani, yesterday. Three teenagers on a motorbike allegedly shot at a taxi, injuring a 10-year-old boy and a seven-year-old girl. The Mueang Pathum Thani police revealed the details of the case at a public briefing held at 10am. The 51 year old taxi driver, Suraphon, was en route to…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsLiquor firms exploit music marketing to boost product visibility

    Liquor firms exploit music marketing to boost product visibility

    Stop-Drink Network Thailand has raised concerns about liquor corporations’ use of music marketing tactics to advertise their products. Teera Watcharapranee, the network’s director, unveiled that a network survey revealed beverage enterprises leveraging music marketing to fuse artists and performers, conducting concerts to boost their product’s visibility, particularly across social media platforms. The investigation was carried out during the Songkran festival…

    Read More »
  • EducationPublic vs private: Deciding on Thailand’s universities

    Public vs private: Deciding on Thailand’s universities

    Selecting the appropriate university in Thailand is akin to navigating a complex labyrinth, encompassing an extensive range of options across both public and private institutions. Prospective students are often deliberating on the distinctive characteristics that differentiate these institutions and which category aligns most closely with their academic goals. This article aims to illuminate the discourse surrounding public versus private universities…

    Read More »
  • Koh Samui TravelIsland hopping in the Gulf of Thailand

    Island hopping in the Gulf of Thailand

    Many individuals fantasize about going island hopping in Thailand’s Gulf of Thailand. Nothing compares to sitting on the sun-drenched deck of a boat, gazing out at the mesmerizing turquoise waters and dreaming of the adventure that lies on the next island. Scattered like pearls across the shallow inlet in the southwestern South China Sea, the islands in the Gulf of…

    Read More »
  • CannabisCannabis strains to make your movie nights amazing

    Cannabis strains to make your movie nights amazing

    Envision the setting for a film evening, with dim lighting and the selection of an ideal cannabis strain to enhance your viewing experience. By 2024, the practice of matching movies with appropriate cannabis strains will have advanced, turning a standard evening in front of the screen into an intricate sensory journey. Whether embarking on a visually captivating science fiction saga…

    Read More »
  • Visa InformationThailand launches eco, astro, and digital nomad visas for 2024 travellers

    Thailand launches eco, astro, and digital nomad visas for 2024 travellers

    As you plan your upcoming trip to Thailand in 2024, staying updated on the changing visa regulations with careful attention and a positive outlook is crucial. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or making your first visit to the Land of Smiles, knowing the latest tourism visa requirements is key. The range of regulations spans from unique rules that may provoke…

    Read More »
  • Food5 Best izakaya restaurants in Bangkok

    5 Best izakaya restaurants in Bangkok

    One can’t help but imagine the ever-so-enticing Japanese bar scene while thinking of an izakaya: the sumptuous scent of grilled skewers wafting through a bustling room, ice-cold beers and sake readily handed to thirsty patrons, and the sound of laughter all around. Now, if you’re in Bangkok, daydreaming of such a charming scene, don’t worry. No need to travel all…

    Read More »
  • Crime NewsPathum Thani taxi attack: Children injured as teens open fire

    Pathum Thani taxi attack: Children injured as teens open fire

    A shocking act of violence shook the community of Pathum Thani when three reckless teenagers on a motorcycle exhibited extreme indifference to human life by shooting at a taxi filled with passengers, including small children, injuring two. The incident, which occurred last night, is currently under intense investigation by local authorities. The 51 year old taxi driver, Surapol, escaped injury,…

    Read More »
  • Business NewsThai banks set for expansion amid ASEAN economies’ growth

    Thai banks set for expansion amid ASEAN economies’ growth

    A surge in regional business expansion is forecasted for major local banks in Thailand due to the growth potential of ASEAN economies. This outlook has been provided by Fitch Ratings Thailand, indicating promising revenue prospects for these banks through increased regional operations. In 2023, a noticeable upturn in the regional business of large local banks was observed, primarily due to…

    Read More »
  • Economy NewsGold prices in Thailand surge to historic 42,050 baht high

    Gold prices in Thailand surge to historic 42,050 baht high

    Gold prices reached a new high today, with the Gold Traders Association (GTA) reporting a significant increase to 42,050 baht per baht weight, marking a historic surge. In a remarkable shift, gold ornament prices soared by 600 baht compared to the previous day’s closing figures. The GTA website showed that as of 9.02am, domestic gold bars were purchased at 41,450…

    Read More »
  • Road deathsPhuket’s seven days safety campaign shows zero fatalities

    Phuket’s seven days safety campaign shows zero fatalities

    Phuket’s Seven Days safety campaign for Songkran 2024 continues to make its impact as the island remains free of any road fatalities since the commencement of the initiative on April 11. Over the past four days, 39 incidents have been recorded by officials, resulting in the same number of people being hospitalised due to injuries. The report compiled by the…

    Read More »
  • Business NewsTourism sector divided over elected versus appointed governors

    Tourism sector divided over elected versus appointed governors

    The debate over elected provincial governors versus appointed heads is intensifying, revealing a divide among tourism operators. This issue gained momentum during last year’s general election, when several political parties, including Pheu Thai, proposed allowing locals to elect their governors, a practice already in place in Bangkok and Pattaya. Pheu Thai’s coalition government, during its policy announcement, introduced a CEO-governor…

    Read More »
  • Chiang Mai NewsProcession brawl in Chiang Mai leads to hefty 75,000 baht fines

    Procession brawl in Chiang Mai leads to hefty 75,000 baht fines

    Chaos erupted during a traditional procession in Chom Thong, Chiang Mai, when a violent brawl broke out among participants, undeterred by the potential for a hefty fine of 75,000 baht. The incident took place yesterday, April 15, as 19 groups paraded the sacred Bo tree supports into Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong amid loud music and a large crowd.…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsThai lottery fever spikes as lucky numbers circulate ahead of draw

    Thai lottery fever spikes as lucky numbers circulate ahead of draw

    The excitement is palpable as the Thai lottery draw for today’s draw approaches, with lottery enthusiasts eagerly seeking out lucky numbers in anticipation of becoming the next millionaire. The draw, set to take place at the Government Lottery Office in Nonthaburi, has sparked a frenzy among the public, with special attention to numbers associated with various auspicious signs and popular…

    Read More »
  • Phuket NewsFour arrested in Phuket with over 12,000 meth pills seized

    Four arrested in Phuket with over 12,000 meth pills seized

    Four individuals have been apprehended by Thalang Police in Phuket on charges related to drugs, with over 12,000 methamphetamine pills, locally known as Yaba, confiscated in the process. The arrests were carried out across three distinct operations yesterday. Among those apprehended was Duean Jarachit, a 42 year old resident of Moo 1, Mai Khao. She was taken into custody on…

    Read More »
  • Business NewsChinese firms eye EV supply chain in Thailand’s Smart Park

    Chinese firms eye EV supply chain in Thailand’s Smart Park

    Chinese companies have shown keen interest in the EV supply chain and energy sectors of the Smart Park Industrial Estate, situated in Rayong, Thailand. This industrial estate is due to open by the end of the current year, according to the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT). The companies aim to establish factories manufacturing EV components to cater to the…

    Read More »
  • Business NewsThai govt plan for energy cost surge amid Israel-Iran conflict

    Thai govt plan for energy cost surge amid Israel-Iran conflict

    Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce issued directives to state bodies to devise strategies to mitigate potential surges in energy costs in the event of an escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict. The directive follows Iran’s missile and drone assault on Israel, a retaliatory move against Israel’s alleged attack on Iran’s consulate in Damascus earlier this month. This marked the first direct attack…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsThailand’s CPPD calls for collective action against youth vaping

    Thailand’s CPPD calls for collective action against youth vaping

    A plea has been made by the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) for collective action to safeguard Thai youngsters from the adverse health effects of e-cigarettes. Police Major General Wittaya Sriprasert, CPPD chief, stressed the need for educators, school personnel, parents, and relatives of young children to collaborate in imparting knowledge about the health hazards linked with vaping. In addition,…

    Read More »
  • Crime NewsThief snatches 210,000 baht gold necklace in a daring mall heist

    Thief snatches 210,000 baht gold necklace in a daring mall heist

    A bold theft occurred yesterday at 7pm when a lone robber seized a 5-baht weight gold necklace valued at over 210,000 baht from the Aurora gold shop located inside a shopping mall in Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province. The thief, under the guise of examining the jewellery, snatched the necklace and fled the scene, leaving the shop…

    Read More »
  • Songkran NewsPost-Songkran travel surge leads to heavy traffic into Bangkok

    Post-Songkran travel surge leads to heavy traffic into Bangkok

    Traffic swelled on the roads heading towards Bangkok as the long holiday season drew to a close, with authorities opening additional lanes to manage the influx. Yesterday, citizens began returning to the capital in droves after celebrating the Songkran festival. The Mittraphap Road, a major thoroughfare connecting the northeastern region of Thailand to Bangkok, experienced significant congestion, particularly at the…

    Read More »
  • Environment NewsTak’s disposal pits scrutinised ahead of cadmium tailings relocation

    Tak’s disposal pits scrutinised ahead of cadmium tailings relocation

    The disposal pits in Tak are under tight scrutiny by the Industry Ministry and local agencies, as they prepare for the relocation of cadmium tailings from Samut Sakhon. The permanent secretary for industry, Nattapol Rangsitpol, confirmed he had discussions with Tak governor Somchai Kitcharoenrungroj about the readiness of the province to handle the relocation. In collaboration with several local agencies,…

    Read More »
  • Chiang Mai NewsChiang Mai battles extensive forest fires and severe air pollution

    Chiang Mai battles extensive forest fires and severe air pollution

    Chiang Mai, a city in the northern region of Thailand, is currently combating an alarming number of forest fires, with over 15 fires reported, some of which have been persisting for three days. As per the local authorities, 17 out of 153 hotspots were detected in the city yesterday. Five of these hotspots are located in the Chiang Dao district,…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsJapanese man dies in Bangkok hotel fall, lands on car

    Japanese man dies in Bangkok hotel fall, lands on car

    A 52 year old Japanese man died after falling from a Bangkok hotel, landing on a parked car. He was staying alone and no signs of violence were found when the room was searched. The Thai authorities responded to the incident at 1am today, April 15, and coordinated with the Japanese Embassy to notify the man’s relatives. The tranquillity of…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsCar fire at Bangkok temple parking spurs emergency response

    Car fire at Bangkok temple parking spurs emergency response

    A sudden car fire erupted in the parking lot of a well-known temple in the Bang Chak area of Bangkok, prompting a swift response from firefighting teams. The incident was reported today, April 15, and officials are currently investigating the cause. Panic spread rapidly as a car caught fire in the parking lot of the famed Wat Thammongkol Thaobunnonthawihan in…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsSudden scaffolding collapse prompts investigation on Rama II Road

    Sudden scaffolding collapse prompts investigation on Rama II Road

    A sudden scaffolding collapse on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon province prompted an immediate investigation, as ordered by Department of Highways Director-General Sarawut Songsivilai. Alongside the investigation, all steel scaffolding along the elevated Motorway 82 (M82) project is set to undergo a thorough security check. The M82 project, which stretches over 81 kilometres above Rama II Road (Highway 35),…

    Read More »
  • Business NewsSoutheast Asia lags in green investments

    Southeast Asia lags in green investments

    Southeast Asia is significantly lagging in green investments aimed at reducing emissions, according to a report by Bain & Company, a global consultancy. The region’s energy consumption is projected to increase by 40% within this decade, leading to a continued rise in carbon dioxide emissions due to its heavy reliance on fossil fuels. The report, produced in collaboration with green…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsYoung woman nabbed for running fake loan scam in Thailand

    Young woman nabbed for running fake loan scam in Thailand

    A young woman was arrested in Nakhon Ratchasima for her involvement in a sophisticated loan scam operation that duped victims into transferring money for non-existent loans. The sophistication of online financial scams and the importance of being vigilant when sharing personal information and transferring money over the Internet is been crucial these days. The police urge the public to be…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsBangkok ramps up AI security for safe Songkran festivities

    Bangkok ramps up AI security for safe Songkran festivities

    Bangkok tightens security for Songkran celebrations with artificial intelligence (AI) and emergency measures. Bangkok is bracing for Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year, with stringent security measures in place, particularly in popular celebration areas such as Silom and Khao San Road. In previous years, overcrowding has been a significant concern, prompting authorities to implement new strategies to ensure public safety.…

    Read More »
  • Thailand NewsThai Airways adjusts Europe flights amid Iran-Israel tension

    Thai Airways adjusts Europe flights amid Iran-Israel tension

    Thai Airways International has realigned its Europe-bound flights to circumvent the Middle East following Iran’s onslaught on Israel. Concurrently, the Foreign Ministry has reported no immediate repercussions on Thai nationals in Iran and Israel. Thai Airways International President Chai Eamsiri yesterday confirmed that the airline has made minor alterations to some flight paths to evade the Middle East airspace. However,…

    Read More »
  • Business NewsThai government profits from increasing Philippine rice imports

    Thai government profits from increasing Philippine rice imports

    As the Philippines’ demand for rice imports swells, the Thai government is capitalising on this increasing requirement. The Southeast Asian country is set to import more rice this year than previously estimated, providing a lucrative opportunity for Thailand’s rice export market. Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has thus instructed the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) and the commercial attaché in the…

    Read More »