Mitch Connor

Mitch is a Bangkok resident, having relocated from Southern California, via Florida in 2022. He studied journalism before dropping out of college to teach English in South America. After returning to the US, he spent 4 years working for various online publishers before moving to Thailand.
  • Thailand NewsThe meteoric rise of women’s cricket in Thailand

    The meteoric rise of women’s cricket in Thailand

    The Bangkok City Cricket Club, the first official cricket club founded in Thailand, was formed in 1890 by locals who had been exposed to the sport during travels to England. At the time, the sport was considered only for the wealthy in society—mainly because only those who could afford to travel had experienced the thrill of playing it. However, the…

  • Thailand NewsThailand unscathed by Crimean-Congo fever, dengue cases surge

    Thailand unscathed by Crimean-Congo fever, dengue cases surge

    In an official statement, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) confirmed that Thailand is currently not affected by the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF). This comes in the wake of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) notification that classifies CCHF as a high-risk infectious disease. Dr Thares Krasanairawiwong, the DDC Director-General, put the country’s populace at ease today. “No case has been…

  • Politics NewsThai PM fears MFP rallies might trigger political faction conflict

    Thai PM fears MFP rallies might trigger political faction conflict

    Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is facing growing apprehensions regarding the rallies being held by supporters of the Move Forward Party (MFP) as Thailand’s politics are tumultuous as always. According to information relayed by Prime Minister’s Office Minister Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, the Prime Minister’s concern stems from fears that these rallies could rekindle conflict among varied political factions in the country. On…

  • Bangkok NewsBangkok’s Ashton Asoke in legal crisis over construction permit

    Bangkok’s Ashton Asoke in legal crisis over construction permit

    The 50-storey Ashton Asoke Condominium in Bangkok, an impressive high-rise establishment, is in hot water. After a recent judgement by the Supreme Administrative Court revoked its crucial construction permit, the Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt, faces increasing pressure to intervene. This decision escalates the ongoing legal conflict involving the 233 billion baht project, located in the Watthana district. This judgement…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket and neighbouring provinces bracing for heavy rainfall

    Phuket and neighbouring provinces bracing for heavy rainfall

    The Thai Meteorological Department’s Phuket branch has issued a strong warning cautioning of substantial rainfall anticipated in Phuket and its peripheral regions from July 30 until August 2. The warning is extended over four provinces stretching along the Andaman coast. The Southwestern Meteorology Centre, functioning near Phuket International Airport, sent out the warning about heavy rainfall at 6am yesterday and…

  • Thailand NewsUnprecedented six-day holiday leads to tourist boom in Pattaya

    Unprecedented six-day holiday leads to tourist boom in Pattaya

    Yesterday marked the kick-off of an unprecedented six-day holiday. Pattaya‘s beaches and tourist hotspots were abuzz as visitors flocked, particularly to Koh Larn, a stunning island located roughly 7 kilometres from the coast. According to local accommodation providers, the entirety of the island’s estimated 3,000 rooms were booked out. The rush of tourists, both Thai and foreign, regularly set sail…

  • Politics NewsRoyal pardon for ex-PM Thaksin?

    Royal pardon for ex-PM Thaksin?

    The unseated ex-Prime Minister of Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra, is eligible to request a royal pardon upon his return to the country. When he returns, he would be imprisoned but can request a pardon, according to the acting Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-Ngam in an announcement yesterday. According to the deputy premier, who also holds the interim role of justice minister…

  • Phuket NewsBlue Flag market unveiled by Phuket to combat rising costs

    Blue Flag market unveiled by Phuket to combat rising costs

    Phuket is preparing to host a monthly special market dubbed the “Blue Flag.” The market is hoped to bring an economic lifeline to the less affluent residents of the city as they struggle with the inflating prices of common household essentials. The Phuket Provincial Commerce Office has taken the initiative of kick-starting the Blue Flag market beginning from the first week…

  • Thailand NewsPhuket island relocation tackles rampant macaque issue in Phetchaburi communities

    Phuket island relocation tackles rampant macaque issue in Phetchaburi communities

    In what’s being hailed as a successful initiative, multiple crab-eating macaques have been relocated from communities within Phetchaburi to an island in Phuket, under a pilot project. The venture has cleared the road for the relocation of more from the rapidly increasing macaque population in the province, as well as the neighbouring Prachuap Khiri Khan, according to the Ministry of…

  • Thailand NewsEl Nino: Thailand combats dry spell with robust water management for EEC

    El Nino: Thailand combats dry spell with robust water management for EEC

    As Thailand grapples with the El Nino weather phenomenon, the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) assures unwavering water supply for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Despite the current weather conditions likely to persist from October to April of next year, the RID is poised to mitigate the impacts with diligent water management. Prapit Chanma, the director-general of the RID, assured yesterday…

  • Thailand NewsThree more Thai provinces join ASEAN Smart Cities Network expanding digital reach

    Three more Thai provinces join ASEAN Smart Cities Network expanding digital reach

    Further broadening its digital reach, Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society Ministry (DES) recently declared that three additional Thai provinces – Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen and Rayong, now form a part of the seminal ASEAN Smart Cities Network (ASCN). This exciting development was announced yesterday, by DES chief, Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn, during the sixth annual ASCN assembly held in Bali, Indonesia. In…

  • Thailand NewsThailand’s environment ministry orders removal of illegal resorts in Phu Thap Boek

    Thailand’s environment ministry orders removal of illegal resorts in Phu Thap Boek

    A mandate for the deconstruction of three illegal resorts in the favoured hillside tourist destination, Phu Thap Boek, has been decreed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The said resorts, located in the Phetchabun province, were brought to the notice of the authorities due to tourist complaints about obtrusive constructions blocking views. On Wednesday, the Minister of Environment,…

  • Phuket NewsCabinet approves extended holiday boosting Phuket’s economy by 2.2 billion baht

    Cabinet approves extended holiday boosting Phuket’s economy by 2.2 billion baht

    News from the Thai island of Phuket brings to attention a myriad of fascinating events that transpired yesterday, headlined by an extended holiday receiving the Cabinet’s approval. The long holidays have reportedly been known to promote expenditure within Phuket, with conjecture claiming an economic boost of close to 2.2 billion baht. Due to the surge in local activities, however, Vachira…

  • Politics NewsHouse speaker warns Thai MPs against ‘cobra’ behaviour in Parliament

    House speaker warns Thai MPs against ‘cobra’ behaviour in Parliament

    The President of the Parliament, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, who also carries the title of House Speaker, has issued a stark warning to Thai MPs against breaching the peoples’ trust by becoming “cobras,” within the parliamentary chambers. Speaking to attendees of a seminar addressing the roles and obligations of MPs, Wan declared that true power belongs to citizens, who exercise…

  • Phuket NewsYoung Israeli Muay Thai student in Phuket brought into protective care

    Young Israeli Muay Thai student in Phuket brought into protective care

    A young Israeli Muay Thai student has been brought into protective care after police and rescuers found him in alarming circumstances. Cherng Talay Police and rescuers from the Cherng Talay Tambon Administrative Organisation (OrBotTor) found the 19 year old man naked and bleeding from a severe cut on his hand at a Caltex petrol station in Baan Pasak at 10.30pm…

  • Bangkok NewsBangkok governor orders strict checks on Chinese-backed businesses after viral TikTok backlash

    Bangkok governor orders strict checks on Chinese-backed businesses after viral TikTok backlash

    In light of a viral TikTok video featuring a Chinese expat’s perspective on life in Thailand, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt issued an instruction for the Huai Khwang district chief to stringently impose laws on Chinese-backed businesses. This decision occurred yesterday and was instigated by a filmed review of Thailand’s day-to-day life from a non-Thai-speaking Chinese resident’s viewpoint. Showcasing his day-to-day…

  • Thailand NewsThailand prepares warm welcome for Sak Surin

    Thailand prepares warm welcome for Sak Surin

    The National Resource and Environment Ministry in Thailand announced plans to organise a Bai Sri Su Khwan welcoming ceremony for Sak Surin, a 30 year old elephant, following the conclusion of his 30-day quarantine duration. This information was put forth by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa. Additionally, it was hinted that the festivities will take place at the Thai…

  • Phuket NewsAustralian ambassador makes a splash on World Drowning Prevention Day in Phuket

    Australian ambassador makes a splash on World Drowning Prevention Day in Phuket

    The Australian Ambassador to Thailand was in Phuket yesterday to observe the World Drowning Prevention Day. Dr Angela Macdonald watched from the sidelines as yesterday’s ceremony was conducted to draw attention to the importance of safety measures in averting drownings, and to remember the dramatic yet deep-seated effects these incidents have on individuals and neighbourhoods. Phuket’s Vice Governor, Danai Sunantarod,…

  • Thailand NewsExiled ex-PM Thaksin pledges return to Thailand for driver’s funeral

    Exiled ex-PM Thaksin pledges return to Thailand for driver’s funeral

    Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, exiled since 2008, today confirmed he is returning to Thailand next month. The 74 year old ex PM is returning to pay his respects to Wichai Changlek, Thaksin’s driver, who passed away at the age of 73. Thaksin wishes to return to attend the cremation ceremonies. The family of Shinawatra, including his daughters Paetongtarn…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket Airport accelerates taxi services with dedicated pickup zone

    Phuket Airport accelerates taxi services with dedicated pickup zone

    In a recent move to regulate taxi services in Phuket, Phuket International Airport put its foot on the accelerator and introduced a dedicated zone allocated for legally permissible taxis to facilitate the pickup of tourists. The news, revealed yesterday, came from a statement published by the airport itself, which was shared by Phuket MP, Somchart Techathavorncharoen. The statement, which was…

  • Thailand NewsOrange Line rail project prevails in court over BTSC dispute

    Orange Line rail project prevails in court over BTSC dispute

    Bangkok’s Orange Line rail project has seen a court decision emerge in its favour. The Central Administrative Court announced its backing for the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA). The decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc (BTSC). In the legal dispute, BTSC accused the MRTA of unjustly altering the terms of…

  • Thailand NewsThailand’s underprivileged children gain new opportunities as schools gain royal patronage

    Thailand’s underprivileged children gain new opportunities as schools gain royal patronage

    In a significant move to boost educational opportunities for underprivileged children in Thailand, nine schools yesterday were inducted under royal patronage, observed Education Minister, Trinuch Thienthon. Trinuch on Monday, officiated an announcement concerning a significant change in the identities of these schools following their adoption by the Rajaprajanugroh Foundation under Royal Patronage. The educational establishments, originally known as Sueksa Songkhro…

  • Thailand NewsNorthern Thailand becomes refuge for over 9,000 Myanmar conflict evacuees

    Northern Thailand becomes refuge for over 9,000 Myanmar conflict evacuees

    The northern province of Thailand, Mae Hong Son, has become a refuge for over 9,000 civilians forced to evacuate due to the escalating conflict in Myanmar. This report has been confirmed by relevant authorities who stated that 9,064 refugees sought shelter in three districts of the province, namely Mae Sariang, Khun Yuam and Muang. There are already measures in place…

  • Crime NewsPhuket Police apprehend man with homemade firearm and meth pills

    Phuket Police apprehend man with homemade firearm and meth pills

    Phuket, generally known for its phenomenal beaches and vibrant nightlife, was the scene of a rather more dramatic event. Thalang Police are running a critical investigation that led to the arrest of a man armed with a homemade firearm and in possession of two methamphetamine pills in Srisoonthorn, Thalang district. Boonmee Saenglao, a 42 year old native of Khon Kaen…

  • Thailand NewsBuzz off dengue: Thailand’s public health ministry launches mosquito massacre

    Buzz off dengue: Thailand’s public health ministry launches mosquito massacre

    In an attempt to combat a swiftly rising number of dengue fever cases in Thailand, the Public Health Ministry initiated an aggressive campaign to eradicate mosquitoes. The nationwide surge of infections, which is experiencing an increase of an estimated 5,000 incidences each week, prompted this decisive action, according to Thares Krassanairavirong, the Disease Control Department’s director-general. The provinces that have…

  • Crime NewsPhuket couple held with thousands of meth pills and illegal firearm

    Phuket couple held with thousands of meth pills and illegal firearm

    In the early hours of yesterday, a man and woman were apprehended in Phuket, Thailand, after they were discovered to be in possession of 27,000 Yaba pills, an illegal form of methamphetamine, and over 900 grams of ya ice, a form of crystal meth. The duo, namely 39 year old Wirawong “Nueng’ Noichan,” who is a resident of Prabaramee Road,…

  • Crime NewsThai Android users lose money in ThaID app scam orchestrated via SMS

    Thai Android users lose money in ThaID app scam orchestrated via SMS

    In an emerging threat to privacy and finances, Android smartphone users in Thailand are being entangled in a sophisticated cyber scam. Orchestrated through the pretence of updating the mobile app ThaID, the scammers acquire remote control of the victim’s phones, enabling them to steal funds. The Department of Provincial Administration (DPA) notified the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) of this…

  • Thailand NewsThai police net 966 in nationwide operation against illegal firearms

    Thai police net 966 in nationwide operation against illegal firearms

    In a month-long nationwide operation spanning from July 1, Thai police have succeeded in apprehending 966 individuals and seizing a notable amount of illegal firearms and ammunition. The operation’s deputy leader, Police General Torsak Sukwimol, delivered an update on the progress on Sunday. As of July 21, officers have sought out 1,658 targets across the country, netting nearly a thousand…

  • Phuket NewsBluebottle influx at Phuket’s Layan Beach: officials urge caution

    Bluebottle influx at Phuket’s Layan Beach: officials urge caution

    Layan Beach has seen the arrival of Portuguese man-o-war, commonly referred to as ‘bluebottles’, washed ashore by the tide. Beachgoers are urged to observe caution and remain vigilant in light of this current issue. This concern was brought to the public awareness by an avid reader of Phuket News who discovered four to five bluebottles on the shoreline on a…

  • Thailand NewsThai court mandates repositioning of wild elephant within 15 days

    Thai court mandates repositioning of wild elephant within 15 days

    The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) of Thailand is facing a new directive from the Nakhon Si Thammarat Administrative Court. The court ruling mandates the capture and repositioning of a wandering wild elephant known as “Phlai Chao Nga” within a stringent time frame of 15 days. The wandering pachyderm had ventured away from Tai Rom Yen…