In a surprising twist that has left many tourism observers astounded, Japan has snagged the top spot as the favored destination for Chinese tourists, edging out the long-standing contender, Thailand. This unexpected surge in Japanese-bound visitors has Thailand re-evaluating its tourism blueprint, desperately attempting to capture the interest of other Asian markets. According to staggering figures released by the Japan National Tourism Organisation, Japan’s allure to Chinese tourists exploded last year. A total of 6.98 million Chinese globetrotters graced the Land of the Rising Sun in 2024, rocketing up by 188%. Meanwhile, Thailand, though still popular, welcomed 6.73 million Chinese visitors, a number shadowed by Japan’s remarkable influx. Concerns burgeoned among Chinese travelers about human traffickers exploiting Thailand as a transit point, exacerbated by the recent abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing. However, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) quickly moved to allay fears. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor…
THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News
Bangkok, the city known for its vibrant street life and bustling markets, is about to experience a significant transformation—albeit a temporary one. The familiar skyline and traffic patterns are getting a major shake-up as the Ratchathewi intersection flyover closes its ramps for an unprecedented three-year stretch. What’s the reason behind this? The groundbreaking construction of the Ratchathewi underground electric train station. The clock started ticking at 10 PM on January 17, and the closure is set to extend until April 30, 2028. This bold move is all part of a grand plan to advance the city’s transport network. But, as any Bangkok dweller knows, major construction inevitably means one thing: traffic chaos. City officials have had to think creatively about mitigating congestion and maintaining the flow of Bangkok’s infamous traffic juggernaut. Enter Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompol, who has been at the helm of remedial discussions with the Mass Rapid Transit…
In a curious caper that might just tickle the fancy of those amused by audacious robberies, the quiet streets of Rayong province have become the unlikely stage for a bumbling thief’s peculiar escapade. Our protagonist, a man of modest height standing approximately 170 centimeters tall, exhibited remarkable flair for the theatrical during his entrance and subsequent petty theft from a bakeware and bakery ingredient shop. Unfortunately for him, his spoils amounted to a mere 100 baht, making one wonder if there might be more to his motivation than meets the eye. The bizarre incident came to the attention of the shop’s manager, Komprakorn, who noticed inconsistencies within the cash drawer. Upon reviewing the security footage, it was revealed that under the cloak of night, the thief descended from the third floor like a comical caped crusader—his yellow and black umbrella serving as a makeshift shield from the prying eyes of…
In an unfolding drama that has gripped the quiet town of Chumphon, an alarming manhunt is in full swing after a foreign individual audaciously seized a vehicle at gunpoint. To make matters even more harrowing, this brazen crime took place with a terrified Thai mother and her two young children aboard. The Royal Thai Police (RTP) are urging residents to stay vigilant, join in the search and report any sightings of the suspect or the vehicle. Social media is abuzz with the gravity of the situation, especially after Facebook user Kraiwich Chanthra, popularly known as Oat Rescue Lang Suan, shared a bone-chilling video clip of the dastardly incident. Armed with a gun, the suspect forcibly took control of the driver’s seat, coercing the distraught woman, as per the footage. The nightmare began in the locality of Phato, and the relentless hijacker drove swiftly towards Chumphon after making a sharp maneuver…
If you’re planning your next unforgettable urban adventure, then Cape Town should be right at the top of your list. Recently declared the world’s best city for 2025 by Time Out, this South African jewel seems to offer everything under the sun – and maybe even more. From awe-inspiring natural landscapes to energetic nightlife, Cape Town is a city that promises a sensory feast from dawn till dusk. Imagine this: Start your day surrounded by charming African penguins at Boulders Beach, savor a glass of acclaimed local wine in the stunning Winelands, enjoy a saunter along the immaculate Blue Flag beaches, and then top it all off with a view from Table Mountain – one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. “Where else can you experience such diverse joys all in one day?” muses Time Out. This notable accolade is the result of extensive surveys involving 18,500 city-goers from…
Sirikanya Tansakun, the eloquent deputy leader of the People’s Party (PP), took a stand on a significant issue during a parliamentary debate on September 3, 2024. Although the vibrant setting was underscored by the intensity of the discussions, all eyes turned towards her as she addressed the government’s ambitious plan to intertwine casinos with burgeoning entertainment complexes. This proposal, while revolutionary, demanded a keen eye on regulatory oversight, Ms. Sirikanya asserted. The parliament echoed with her concerns for transparency in licensing processes and the pressing need to shield society from the siren call of gambling addiction. These thoughts rang especially true in an era where financial gluttony and greed can overshadow public benefit. She emphasized that unchecked, such establishments could become a playground for money launderers, casting a shadow over society. The backdrop of this discussion was a revelation from government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub, who incisively noted that shadowy businesses…
In a lively twist of events, the People’s Party (PP) has turned up the pressure on the Interior Ministry, urging a swift revocation of the land deeds of the Alpine Golf Club in Pathum Thani. PP list MP, Chulapong Yukate, passionately called upon Chamnanwit Terat, the current deputy permanent secretary overseeing the Department of Lands (DoL), to expedite the nullification process, restoring the land to its rightful status as monastic property. This intriguing saga began with Neum Chamnanchartsakda, a benevolent and affluent supporter of Wat Thamikararam Worawihan since its inception in 1922. With wisdom and philanthropy in her heart, she bequeathed the land to the temple in her will. Yet, here we stand, with a twist in the tale as Mr. Chulapong ardently argues for honoring Neum’s dying wish. Fueling the plot, a prior nullification order was signed by Chada Thaised, a senior figure from the Bhumjaithai Party, shortly before…
Chiang Mai, renowned for its lush landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences, has long been a magnet for travelers eager to explore the wonders of elephant camps. These camps, peppered across the country, draw hundreds of thousands of tourists every year, their jumbos trained to fascinate and engage guests in ways that leave a lasting impression. Yet, despite the allure and the smiles these gentle giants elicit, the recent tragedy involving a young Spanish tourist at a camp in Thailand has prompted a re-evaluation of safety measures within these establishments. The unfortunate incident involved 22-year-old Blanca Ojanguren García, who met with calamity during a seemingly idyllic elephant bathing activity at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre in Phangnga. In an attempt to steady herself after slipping into the pond, García reached out for the elephant’s trunk — a move that ended tragically when the startled elephant reacted, causing her to sustain…
In the heart of Nakhon Si Thammarat, the illustrious and ancient Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan stands, a testament to centuries of spiritual and cultural confluence. As the current year of 2025 unfolds, a determined effort is underway to elevate this hallowed sanctuary to the prestigious status of a UNESCO World Heritage site—a title that echoes across the globe and draws the curious, the believers, and the wanderers alike. Leading this noble cause is none other than Chalermchai Sri-on, the dynamic Natural Resources and Environment Minister. Known for his tenacity and strategic foresight, Minister Chalermchai is set to present a compelling proposal to the national cabinet. His mission? To secure the essential backing that Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan needs to receive the international recognition it indisputably deserves. Backing this initiative is Apichat Sakdiset, the astute advisor to the Minister. With a gleam of excitement, he divulged on a recent Friday that…
In a swirl of excitement and camaraderie, the Grand Postal Building was abuzz with celebratory fervor as British Ambassador Mark Gooding, poised and personable, took center stage. Flanked by the ever-dedicated Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Varawut Silpa-archa, and the astute Minister of Justice, Pol Col Tawee Sodsong, the atmosphere was anything but ordinary. The event, immortalized through snapshots by the deft lens of photographer Nutthawat Wichieanbut, was more than just a gathering; it was a symbol of enduring friendship. Ambassador Gooding, embodying the spirit of diplomacy, announced a thrilling initiative to bolster the Thailand-UK relationship, a bond that has time-traveled 170 years, weathered storms, and embraced sunshine. Dubbed the “170th Anniversary Launch Party,” this gathering was not just an ode to the past but a herald of future collaborations. Hosted in the enchanting Postal Theatre, nestled on the bustling Charoen Krung Road in Bangkok’s historic Bang Rak…