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Tourism News
Prominent Pattaya hotelier urges next Thai government to extend tourism-subsidy scheme
A prominent Pattaya hotelier has urged the next Thai government to extend its tourism-subsidy scheme to promote domestic travel. Yuwathida Jeerapat, managing director for J Pattaya Hotel Group, expressed confidence that the “We Travel Together” programme, launched in 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic, has positively impacted domestic tourism. The latest round of funding, referred to as “We Travel Together’s fifth…
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World News
Philippine president clarifies use of military bases granted to US
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr emphasised on Thursday that the additional military bases in his country, recently granted to United States access, will not be utilised to target China or any other nation. Marcos spoke at a think-tank event and responded with a simple “no” when questioned if the United States had requested his government contribute troops for combat operations…
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World News
French purists claim British coronation quiche mislabelled
The British palace has introduced a unique vegetarian “quiche” to celebrate King Charles III‘s coronation on Saturday. However, culinary experts in France argue that the dish has been erroneously labelled. Last month, the palace shared the recipe for the Coronation Quiche, which aligns with the new monarch’s environmental concerns and contains no meat. The dish features ingredients such as spinach,…
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China News
Husband caught holidaying with mistress on livestream by shocked wife during Labour Day
One married woman got an unwelcome surprise while she was staying home during the Labour Day holiday to take care of her children – she discovered her husband on holiday with his mistress on a livestream. The unexpected revelation occurred in China when the woman was at home attending to her children. Feeling bored, she spent her time engaging in…
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Northern Thailand News
Cobra spits venom into Disaster Prevention officer’s eyes in northeast Thailand (clip)
A Siamese spitting cobra spat venom into the eyes of a Disaster Prevention officer in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeast Thailand yesterday. Rescue officers responded quickly and managed to save his life and eyesight. At 7.40pm, the Hook 31 Rescue Unit was informed that someone was spat at by a cobra at Ban Tanot Village, Moo 2, Ban Pho subdistrict,…
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World News
Felicity: A museum at the centre of the world
In the heart of California’s Sonora Desert lies the unique town of Felicity, founded by the 94 year old visionary, Jacques Andre Istel. This enigmatic location is home to an ambitious project: a museum of human history that continues to expand, aiming to encompass the entirety of documented humanity. What began in 1986 with two small houses has grown to…
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Visa Information
What is the current Thai visa rule for Thailand?
Planning to explore the vibrant markets of Bangkok, bask on the sandy beaches of Phuket, or wander through the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya? Thailand has long been a favourite destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. But before you can indulge in delicious Thai cuisine and experience the warmth of its people, there’s a crucial step to…
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World News
Indonesia’s efforts to kick-start peace process in Myanmar
Indonesia has been discreetly engaging with Myanmar’s pro-democracy shadow government, the ruling junta, and ethnic minority armies for several months, according to Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. As this year’s chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Indonesia aims to kick-start a peace process and reduce violence in the region. In an interview, Marsudi revealed Indonesia’s behind-the-scenes efforts to…
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Thailand News
Massage parlour in northern Thailand raided for underage sex trafficking
Police swooped on a massage parlour in the northern province of Tak after a tip-off on underage sex trafficking. The owner of the parlour was arrested and two teenage Burmese girls were rescued. The Anti Trafficking In Persons Division Police (ATPD) received a tip-off that a Thai woman, 40 year old Suphaporn Makaew, was operating an underage sex trafficking racket…
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World News
Charles III’s coronation: A mix of tradition, modernity and controversy
In a moment of historic splendour, Britain is set to witness its first coronation in 70 years as the nation prepares to crown King Charles III at Westminster Abbey on Saturday. This religious confirmation follows the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last September, and besides crowning Charles, the ceremony will also crown his second wife, Camilla, as queen. Although many…
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Business News
Increase in fresh fruit exports to China expected due to improved land transport flow
Exports of fresh fruit to China are expected to surge by at least 10% this year, thanks to improved land transport flow and better cross-border trade facilitation. Commerce Permanent Secretary Keerati Rushchano revealed that land border transportation for fresh fruit is predicted to rise significantly in the coming months, with durian making up about 80-90% of the transported produce. Fresh…
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Business News
Philippine annual inflation on track for government target as food prices ease
Philippine yearly inflation is predicted to remain within the government’s 2% to 4% target range in Q4, following a decrease in April due to reduced food prices. The consumer price index increased by 6.6% YoY in April, the lowest rate since August, and lower than the 7.0% predicted in a Reuters poll. As a result, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas…
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Tourism News
20,000 tourists flock to Thailand’s Full Moon Party
Around 20,000 tourists flocked to Thailand’s Full Moon Party on the island of Koh Pha Ngan last night, located in the southern Surat Thani province. The popular event, held on the full moon night of each month, is known for its lively atmosphere and attracts a significant number of young travellers from around the world. To ensure the safety of…
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Guides
What to do in Bangkok this weekend (5 – 7 May)
Are you ready for another action-packed weekend in Bangkok? If you’re on the hunt for unique and exciting things to do in Bangkok from 5th to 7th May, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve handpicked a selection of top-notch events, activities, and experiences to add to your list for this weekend. So scroll down and let us help you…
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Business News
Singapore car COE prices to remain high due to limited supply and strong demand
Prices for Singapore’s Certificate of Entitlement (COE) are likely to remain high as demand continues to outstrip limited supply. Despite a dip in premiums for cars after the latest bidding exercise closed on 4 May, it is too early to tell if prices have peaked, said analysts who forecast that COE premiums for cars may rise in the next few…
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Phuket News
Turtle nest discovered on Koh Phra Thong beach, Phang Nga
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) Region 6 office in Thailand has reported the discovery of a turtle nest on Koh Phra Thong island, located off the coast of Kuraburi District in Phang Nga province. Yesterday, a team of DMCR officials, along with a village chief assistant from Moo 3 Baan Koh Ra, inspected the turtle nest situated…
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Transport News
SAS to launch direct Copenhagen – Bangkok flights
Danish flag carrier SAS Scandinavian Airlines will launch a direct route between Copenhagen in Denmark and Bangkok in Thailand in October this year to meet increasing demand, the airline announced on Tuesday. SAS first opened a route from Copenhagen to Bangkok way back in 1949, which was discontinued in 2014. Bangkok was SAS’s first-ever destination in East Asia. The relaunched…
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World News
China’s aircraft carriers: A threat or propaganda showpiece?
While China’s recent military drills with its Shandong aircraft carrier showcased its modernizing forces, experts believe it could take over a decade for China to pose a credible carrier threat far from its shores. Military attaches and defence analysts question the value of China’s carriers in a potential conflict with the US over Taiwan or their ability to be protected…
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Thailand News
Honest Thai couple hand over bag with lost 100,000 baht to police in Ratchaburi
An honest Thai couple discovered a bag with 100,000 baht inside in front of a shopping mall in the central province of Ratchaburi and notified the police so they can search for its owner. Eighteen year old Kittisak “Zen” Thaweechokhirun, and his 18 year old girlfriend, Potchathawat “Mali” Sabumuang, last night reported the cash-filled bag they found at a shopping mall…
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Thailand Weather Updates
Prachuap Khiri Khan braces for rainy season to start in mid-May
Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan province is bracing for the rainy season to start in mid-May. The Thai Meteorological Department predicts that the rainy season in Thailand will start around the third week of May 2023, with one to two tropical storms possibly passing through the northeastern and northern regions in August and September. Thailand’s rainy season typically occurs from May to…
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World News
Chinese foreign minister assures Russia and India of deepening bilateral ties at SCO meeting
Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang has assured his Russian and Indian counterparts that China will continue to deepen bilateral relations and that “coordination and cooperation” will only grow stronger, as it demonstrates its solidarity with two of China’s biggest neighbours. Qin met with other foreign ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in India last week, as Beijing seeks to…
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Phuket News
Mai Khao authorities in Phuket enforce removal of illegally posted signs
Efforts to remove illegal roadside signs throughout the Mai Khao area have been ramped up, following orders given by Sarawut Srisakukham, the Chief of the Mai Khao Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor). As part of the ongoing crackdown, officials have been tasked with identifying and dismantling any unauthorised signage, to help maintain order and cleanliness in the region. The campaign commenced…
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Tourism News
Thailand welcomes 8.5 million foreign tourists so far this year
Thailand welcomed over 8.5 million foreign tourists in the first four months of 2023, generating revenue of 353 billion baht, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Government spokesperson Anucha Buraphachaisri revealed today that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was delighted to hear about the strong recovery of Thailand’s tourism sector from January to April. In total, 8,596,452…
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Thailand News
Cannabis crooks caught on camera: Foreigners caught stealing from Phuket pharmacy
CCTV footage captured two foreigners stealing cannabis from a pharmacy in Phuket. Fortunately, a member of staff caught them red-handed on the job. The Facebook page, Phuket Info Center, posted two videos of the incident yesterday, May 4, with a caption that said… “Warning! Foreigners stole cannabis from a shop on Rat U Thit 200 Years Road in the Patong…
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Crime News
Heartbroken Thai durian farmer cries after trees poisoned, causing 30 million baht loss
A heartbroken durian farmer in South Thailand cried after he discovered on Wednesday that most of his trees had been poisoned, causing a long-term loss of around 30 million baht (US$936,000). The farmer, 51 year old Charin Phuachai, lives with his family in Chumphon province, in the Hat Phan Kraj sub-district of the main city district. Charin had 25 Mon…
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Business News
Dexon Technology’s overseas expansion strategy amid global recession forecasts
Despite numerous predictions of a potential global economic recession, Dexon Technology’s chief executive Mallika Kaekla is confident that the company’s strategy to expand overseas will help boost revenue this year. Established in 1996 close to the Map Ta Phut industrial estate in Rayong province, Dexon Technology originally provided engineering inspection services for the energy and petrochemical sectors, ensuring efficiency and…
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World News
Serbian mass shooting leaves 8 dead and 13 injured
A tragic shooting last night in the vicinity of Belgrade, Serbia, resulted in the deaths of eight individuals and injuries to another 13. This shocking incident comes in the wake of another mass shooting in Serbia just one day earlier. Serbian authorities are reportedly searching for a 21 year old male suspect after a warrant was issued for his arrest.…
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World News
CIA accused of using powerful cyberweapons against China and other countries, report reveals
China’s National Computer Virus Emergency Response Centre (CVERC) and cybersecurity company 360 jointly released a report yesterday, accusing the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of using powerful cyberweapons to attack other countries, including China. The report claims that the CIA has orchestrated “peaceful evolution” and “colour revolutions” worldwide through superior technology. The report concentrated on numerous cyberattacks within China. Investigators…
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Business News
Airbnb reports first annual profit and optimistic outlook for tourism
Airbnb has made a strong recovery in 2022, achieving its first annual profit on a 40% revenue growth to US$8.4 billion, and reporting net income of $1.9 billion. Optimistic about further growth this year fuelled by the tourism industry, the company’s co-founder and chief strategy officer, Nate Blecharczyk, highlights the importance of adapting to changing consumer behaviour. The San Francisco-based…
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Thailand News
PWO collaborates with NACC and Amlo for lawsuits over rubber glove corruption scandal
The Public Warehouse Organisation (PWO) is collaborating with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to proceed with lawsuits against individuals involved in the corruption surrounding the procurement of 500 million boxes of rubber gloves worth 112 billion baht in 2020. PWO director Kriangsak Prateepvisut disclosed last week that the organization is preparing to file civil and…
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Thailand News
Thailand’s pollution control department to lower safe PM2.5 levels following WHO guidelines
The Pollution Control Department (PCD) yesterday announced plans to align with the World Health Organisation guidelines and reclassify the safe level for ultra-fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from 50 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m3) to 37.5 µg/m3 in an effort to address dust pollution concerns. Jatuporn Burutphat, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, expressed the ministry’s…
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Tourism News
Thailand to close several popular islands for environmental restoration
Four islands in Trang province, southern Thailand, will close for four months to give nature a chance to restore itself after a hectic tourist season, namely Koh Muk, Koh Kradan, Koh Chuek, and Koh Waen. Thailand’s Similan Islands will also close for the monsoon season. Yesterday, the Chief of Hat Chao Mai National Park Prit Narasaritkul announced the temporary cease of…
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World News
South Korea aspires to become a global pivotal state for Indo-Pacific crisis response
South Korea‘s aim to become a global pivotal state (GPS) will help countries in the Indo-Pacific region address crises, according to the nation’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Choi Youngsam, who spoke to media in Seoul. Choi addressed the World Journalist Conference, hosted by the Journalist Association of Korea from April 24-29. Around 50 international journalists, including five from Southeast Asia –…
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Cannabis
Lollipop shines at the Cannex Asia Cannabis Cup in Bangkok, Thailand
Lollipop joined the Cannex Asia Organiser Team for the highly anticipated 4/20 community event, which took place from April 20 to 22, 2023, at Emquartier in Bangkok, Thailand. The event was a resounding success, bringing together cannabis enthusiasts, growers, dispensary owners, and wellness industry professionals. Cannabis Cup and farmer’s market: A green affair The Atrium event space on the 5th…
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World News
White House urges AI giants to consider moral responsibility in technology development
The White House recently called on the leaders of US artificial intelligence (AI) giants to acknowledge their “moral” responsibility in protecting society from potential dangers posed by artificial intelligence. In a meeting with CEOs from Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic, Vice President Kamala Harris urged these tech behemoths to ensure the safety and security of their products while complying with…
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Business News
Thailand’s One Drone, One Community project aims to boost smart farming and economy
The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa) has announced its plan to launch a pioneering project in Thailand that will provide large drones to communities and offer training in drone maintenance to encourage smart farming development. The initiative, titled “One Drone, One Community,” is backed by the Digital Economy Fund and aims to create an economic impact exceeding 800 million baht…
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Business News
The future of Thai workforce: Embracing flex work and employee experiences
Despite facing economic uncertainties, nearly 60% of global executives anticipate their businesses to achieve stable or significant growth. Asian leaders, however, express concerns about the rising cost of capital and debt, labour market tightness, and competition for talent when planning for the upcoming year. In the Global Talent Trends (GTT) Study 2023 by Mercer, human resources leaders in Thailand shared…
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