Wednesday morning in the bustling heart of Bangkok metropolitan saw a shade of gray, as the Air Quality Information Centre of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) declared that the city’s air quality hovered in that ‘just okay’ zone, a tad too close to ‘concerning’. One could almost imagine the city itself taking a deep, hesitant breath. Averaging a PM2.5 level of 32.8 micrograms per cubic meter (mcg), Bangkok was playing a delicate dance with the national standard of 37.5 mcg, as measured over the daintiest hint of three hours in the early dawn (between 5 am and 7 am, to be precise). Compared to the fresher breezes of the day before, when levels sat more comfortably at 26 mcg, today felt a little pressed for air. Just what are these PM2.5 levels, you ask? Picture invisible invaders, dust particles so tiny at 2.5 micrometers or smaller, yet they pack a…
Posts published in “Thailand”
The bustling political scene in Thailand is set to observe an electrifying face-off as the country’s ruling Pheu Thai Party and its spirited rival, Bhumjaithai, brace themselves for the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections scheduled for February 1st across 47 provinces. However, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assures that the unity within the coalition government remains intact despite the crescendo of competition. During a recent cabinet conclave at the illustrious Government House, the Prime Minister declared that her party’s candidates would continue to extend support to the community post-elections. When quizzed about the potential for disarray within the coalition, given the intense rivalry, especially in the lively battleground of the Northeast, Ms. Paetongtarn presented an intriguing analogy. “Consider it a sporting duel”, she mused. “When the final whistle blows, one need not bear a grudge against fellow competitors. I harbor no animosity towards anyone… Each party reserves the right to send…
In 2025, as Thailand and China joyously celebrate five decades of robust diplomatic relations, Siam Paragon—a dazzling gem of global appeal—ushers in the Lunar New Year with a grand fiesta titled “Siam Paragon: A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2025.” Running from today until February 2nd, the event takes center stage at Parc Paragon, reaffirming Siam Paragon’s status as the ultimate destination to welcome the Lunar New Year in style. The theme draws profound inspiration from Dunhuang, an ancient oasis renowned for its over 2,000 years of rich cultural tapestry intertwined with the historic Silk Road. This celebration not only offers a multifaceted experience of cultural homage but also mirrors the sheer immensity of Siam Paragon’s dedication to being the pinnacle of festive grandeur. Unveiled on January 28, 2025, the opening ceremony was a spectacle of luminaries, headed by Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong and the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s…
Recent events in the bustling tourist hub of Phuket have sparked lively online discourse and mixed opinions, as reports surface of a particular Russian couple indulging in the art of “dine and dash” – a menu of mischief that stirs both laughter and frustration across the island. With the involved couple alluded to as Russian nationals, their escapades have become the talking point in Phuket, triggering a debate on the local visa-free travel policy that some netizens argue is a little too welcoming for comfort. A restaurant owner in Patong’s lively streets decided to spill the beans – not the coffee – on the couple’s antics, using the social media platform, Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์, to air his grievances. The entry, which is as entertaining as it is cautionary, warns fellow restaurateurs of their peculiar modus operandi: “Awful! A Russian couple has been dining and dashing at restaurants in Phuket. Sometimes…
This year’s Chinese New Year celebrations are poised to set an impressive milestone in terms of public expenditure, as the spending is projected to skyrocket to 51.78 billion baht. This figure not only marks the highest expenditure level observed in the past five years but also reflects a notable 4.5% increase from the previous year. It’s a significant rebound in spending, especially considering it’s the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic that the expenditure is expected to breach the 50 billion baht mark. In Songkhla, a bustling hub for Chinese New Year preparations, shops are experiencing a surge in demand. Thai-Chinese communities are in full swing, gathering all necessary goodies for the festivities. Traditional lanterns embellished with symbols of fortune, vibrant firecrackers, and essential items for ancestor worship are flying off the shelves, while exotic fruits and classic Chinese pastries are also in high demand. It’s a joyful time, with…
In a tale that’s as intriguing as it is unsettling, a former Thai political activist has blown the lid off what he claims is a web of bribes and privileges extended to certain inmates within the Bangkok Remand Prison. Ekkachai Hongkangwan, a notable activist with a penchant for uncovering uncomfortable truths, took to Facebook to spill the beans on the alleged cushy conditions enjoyed by Chinese inmates accused of call centre scams. According to Ekkachai, these Chinese detainees have turned incarceration into a veritable holiday, all thanks to the clout of hefty bribes. He described them as living in unparalleled comfort, huddled together in rooms akin to deluxe compartments compared to the overcrowded confinements of their Thai counterparts. It’s as if they managed to turn the prison into their private club, complete with tantalizing treats like grilled salmon and luxurious cigars that would make any free civilian green with envy.…
The year 2025 is witnessing Southeast Asia’s aviation industry climbing to new heights, with airports across the region reporting remarkable growth in seat capacity. Driven by an insatiable thirst for travel, better airline networks, and cutting-edge connectivity improvements, Southeast Asia is solidifying its reputation as a titan in the global aviation sector. Leading the way is Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, boasting an extraordinary rise of 407,000 seats this January. That’s a 16% leap from the previous year, as this airport maintains its prestigious status as both a bustling tourist portal and a transit hub. Coupled with Thailand’s soaring tourism revival, Suvarnabhumi Airport’s significance and influence remain undisputed in the Southeast Asian landscape. Not to be outdone, Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Airport posted impressive gains, recording a 10% uptick and welcoming over 368,000 new seats. Its strategic connectivity within Southeast Asia and the Middle East continues to charm business travelers and vacationers…
Picture this: It’s 2025, and as the sun sets over the bustling cityscape of Bangkok, a transformation begins on the renowned Yaowarat Road. Nestled in the city’s vibrant Chinatown, this iconic street flickers to life with an enchanting array of decorative lights, ushering in the much-anticipated Lunar New Year celebrations. This year, the spotlight is on the intriguing Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom and contemplation. Not only is this celebration a feast for the eyes, but 2025 also marks a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of cultural camaraderie between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and China. It’s a testament to half a century of shared heritage and mutual exchanges, beautifully captured through this festive embellishment that will illuminate Yaowarat Road until the 9th of February. Under the gentle glow of these lights, Yaowarat transforms into more than just a street—it’s a living narrative where the past meets…
In the colorful tapestry of world affairs, few threads are as vibrant and poignant as the tales of those seeking refuge, hope, and solace. As the sun rises over the verdant landscapes separating Thailand from Myanmar, the hopes and dreams of many lie nestled within nine refugee camps along the border, home to some 100,000 souls. Yet, in the landscape of international politics, an unexpected tremor has rippled across these tranquil lands. US President Donald Trump, in a rather bold maneuver, enacted a 90-day pause on foreign aid. This decision has sent financial shockwaves through the support systems that underpin these camps’ operations, putting a critical strain especially on the healthcare services provided to these communities. Enter Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, the steady hand at the helm amidst this brewing storm. With a sense of resolve, he declared the Thai government’s commitment to continue supporting healthcare for these refugees.…
Amidst the academic corridors and vibrant discussions at Mahidol University, the air buzzed with promise and innovation. The revered *Assoc Prof Naeti Suksomboon*, Vice President for Education, joined hands with a distinguished lineup of leadership, including *Asst Prof Ittichote Chuckpaiwong*, Vice President for Infrastructure and Environment, and a host of other esteemed individuals, each bringing their unique vision to the table. Together, they steered Mahidol University into uncharted waters, with the ambition of transforming the medical tapestry of Thailand through collaboration with the Mahidol University Foundation, under the esteemed Royal Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. This sea of change was radiantly evident at the “Human Interaction for Systematic Innovation” gathering, a melting pot of global trailblazers, managerial magnates, and medical alchemists, all converging to chart a luminous course for Thai medicine. Among the stellar revelations of the event was the heralded Mahidol Foundation for Sustainability Fund.…