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…
THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News
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.…
The Council of State (CoS) finds itself entangled in a web of deliberations, as it grapples with the enticing yet controversial prospect of allocating a portion of entertainment complexes for casino ventures, amid a newly proposed bill. According to CoS Secretary-General Pakorn Nilprapunt, the topic has already undergone a series of thorough discussions with related governmental bodies on four separate occasions over recent weeks. Despite these scrutinous consultations, the matter remains as indecisive as ever. On a brisk Monday morning, the corridors of financial power echoed with the voice of Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. He proudly asserted that his ministry had recently nudged the CoS to reconsider the bill, proposing that a tantalizing 10% of each entertainment complex’s footprint could be earmarked for casino builds. However, the path to consensus seemed like a journey without a destination. “We have not yet reached [an agreement on] that level yet,” Julapun…
In a compelling stand against the pervasive influence of e-cigarettes, youth representatives have stepped forward to demand an active role from the Education Ministry to implement a strict zero-tolerance policy in schools across the nation. These passionate appeals were made in the form of a formal letter delivered by prominent youth groups, including the Youth Health Promotion Movement, the Youth Risk Reduction Network, and the Foundation for Youth and Family Development, to the Education Minister, Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, through Pridee Phusinam, inspector-general at the ministry. Abdulfatah Yusof, a dynamic coordinator for the Youth Health Promotion Movement in the South, has been on a relentless quest to shield children and young people from the lurking hazards of e-cigarettes. With a voice full of conviction, Abdulfatah painted a concerning picture of today’s scenario wherein even very young children, some merely nine years old, have fallen prey to the easy accessibility of…
The political landscape in Thailand is heating up as fierce rivals, the ruling Pheu Thai Party and Bhumjaithai, gear up for the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections in 47 provinces on February 1. Despite the competitive nature of these elections, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured onlookers that the unity within the coalition government will remain intact. After a cabinet meeting at Government House, Ms. Paetongtarn expressed confidence that candidates from the ruling party will continue to serve the public post-elections. Addressing concerns about the intense campaigning, particularly in the politically significant Northeast, Ms. Paetongtarn likened the electoral frenzy to a friendly sports match. “When the competition ends, one doesn’t necessarily have to dislike the other contestants,” she remarked. “I personally don’t hate anyone… Every party has the right to field candidates, and they have to be fully devoted to campaigning.” In typical sporting spirit, she encouraged a healthy contest without…