In an unexpected turn of events on a bustling Pattaya night, a Chinese YouTuber’s evening transformed from fun to frightening. In the wee hours of April 12, Li Hailong, a well-known content creator from the vibrant digital space of China, was discovered in dire straits on a non-descript roadside in Soi Thep Prasit 6/1, nestled in the otherwise lively Bang Lamung district. The clock had barely crept past 5:10 a.m. when local police were alerted by a concerned resident about a man who had allegedly been tricked and mugged by two of his compatriots. The scene they arrived at was far from pleasant. Li was found nursing a bleeding lip, his right eye swollen like a stormy sky, and scratched as though he’d wrestled with a pack of angry cats. Despite his condition, Li recounted his startling ordeal with a clarity that belied his physical state. According to a still…
THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News
As the bustling city of Bangkok reverberates with excitement and anticipation, the Songkran festival of 2025 has triumphantly begun. The annual revelry has Thai residents and tourists alike embarking on journeys to savor the occasion throughout the country. Among the eager participants are those aboard the trusty bus that makes its merry way from the bustling capital to the northern extents of Chiang Rai, over 800 kilometers away from the metropolitan whirlpool. Beyond the vibrant streets, Krungthep Apiwat Station hums with activity as the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) rises to the occasion. Veeris Ammarapala, the SRT’s enthusiastic governor, conveyed his delight at the sight of the station brimming with fervent travelers. He projected a massive turnout of over 117,000 passengers on this first day, a hearty chunk of which—more than 81,000—were eager to embark on their adventures. The SRT has significantly ramped up train frequency and bolstered staff presence…
Get ready to dive headfirst into the splashing, lively fun of Thailand’s most celebrated festival! The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has kicked off the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025, a five-day extravaganza running until April 15, transforming Ratchadamnoen Klang Road and Sanam Luang into a vibrant playground of festivities. Amidst the electrifying atmosphere, revellers are having a splash-tastic time on Bangkok’s Khao San Road, where the magic of an AI-powered CCTV system mesmerizes by keeping tabs on faces and crowd levels. Oh, how tech-savvy Thailand is becoming! Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the eloquent governor of TAT, warmly invites both local and international tourists to immerse themselves in the jubilant celebration of the Thai New Year. Light and sound shows dazzle the senses, cultural parades showcase the rich tapestry of traditions from five distinct regions, and water-splashing zones promise refreshing reprieves from the warmth of the sun. If that’s not enough,…
As the swelter of April grips Thailand, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has sounded the alarm bells for an electrifying summer storm, promising to be a thunderous spectacle across 44 provinces, including the ever-vibrant metropolis, Bangkok. This volatile atmospheric drama is expected to unfold over the next 24 hours, casting a tempestuous shadow over the Songkran celebrations. So, gather around as we navigate through the highs and lows of what Mother Nature has in store. With the north, central, and eastern regions of Thailand, along with Bangkok, poised to receive their thunderstorm tickets, weathermen project storms will envelop around 60% of these areas on April 13. Picture this: a symphony of monochrome clouds, lightning’s electrifying scribbles, and wind that howls like a bedtime ghost story. While the north braces itself for a deluge, locals are urged to practice caution under the unpredictable fireworks of the summer sky. However, it’s not…
In a twist fit for a suspense thriller, deep within the bustling streets of Pattaya, a sinister operation unfolded involving herbs, threats, and a dash of international intrigue. It all came to a head on a seemingly ordinary afternoon, at precisely 4:20 PM on April 10, 2025, when police swooped in and apprehended three individuals at the heart of this gripping tale. This wasn’t your everyday herbal shop. Oh no, this store, now under the harsh glare of investigation, was a hub of deceit. Tourists were lured in with the promise of “miracle herbs,” a term that should have raised eyebrows but instead filled heads with visions of magical cures. What these unwitting tourists didn’t expect, however, was the hefty price tag and the menacing posture of those behind the counter should they dare refuse a purchase. The main characters? A diverse crew: Kanlaya, the 29-year-old Thai manager whose stern…
In a surprising twist of modern trade relations, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, the astute Pichet Choonhavan, has devised a quintet of strategies to counteract the reverberating effects of the so-called Trump tariffs, which have been a significant buzz in the economic corridors. Among these strategies, a firm stance has been taken not to import US pork—a decision driven by pressing concerns over the livelihood of domestic producers and the ripple effects it may cause on the local market. Picture this: a meeting buzzing with urgency about Thailand’s strategic approach to the United States’ trade policies, where Pichet articulates the nuances of these upcoming negotiations. While the clock is ticking without a set date for this exchange of economic ideas and discourse, anticipation is building that these talks will unfurl soon, possibly fluttering through the air before the month’s end. When they do take place, expect a star-studded lineup…
In a city known for its energetic nightlife and bustling beaches, the calm ambiance of Pattaya was momentarily disrupted by a rather alarming tale of theft. A 57-year-old Canadian tourist, Nirbjit, recounted a bizarre encounter that left him not only dazed but also without his cherished gold necklace. As Nirbjit strolled along the lively Pattaya Beach Road, an unexpected interaction unfolded when he ambled past a familiar McDonald’s. A friendly “hello” greeted him from a group of four to five transgender individuals. What followed was anything but ordinary—a whirlwind of unanticipated attention as the group engaged him with hugs and inappropriate touching. Maintaining his composure, Nirbjit opted not to reciprocate the advances and briskly walked away. It wasn’t until a safe distance was established that Nirbjit realized he’d been relieved of his gold necklace, the pendant of which weighed roughly 20 grams. The adornment, acting as both a fashion statement…
The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 has made a splashy debut at Sanam Luang in Bangkok, with an atmosphere buzzing like an over-caffeinated beehive. As the crowd throngs to partake in this exhilarating fiesta, they find themselves swept away by a whirlwind of activities organized by the ever-innovative Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This vibrant celebration, which runs until Tuesday, April 15, beckons visitors from 3 PM to 11:30 PM each day, casting a spell of joy over everyone in its path. One of the most enchanting highlights is the Giant Maha Songkran zone, a visual feast where visitors can snap photos alongside a landmark that offers mesmerizing views of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha—a nod to Bangkok’s timeless allure. Meanwhile, the five-region identity zone invites festival-goers to soak up the diverse cultural traditions of Thailand’s distinct regions through hands-on creative workshops. As twilight descends, the Colourful Songkran…
Picture this: the sun setting over Pattaya’s stunning coastline, a bird’s-eye view capturing the city’s vivid blend of bustling urban life and tranquil beachfronts. Beneath this picturesque scene, however, there’s a drama unfolding that might slip unnoticed by the average traveler. It’s a tale of legislation, loopholes, and the lively world of online booking platforms, all playing out against the backdrop of Thailand’s alluring real estate market. In recent months, a small tempest has been brewing within the corridors of Thai legislature. State agencies, fueled by a fervent desire to safeguard consumers and uphold the law, are rallying together in an appeal to major online accommodation platforms. Their mission? To weave a sturdy net that ensures only officially registered hotels and lodging providers have the privilege of busily processing online bookings. The root of it all lies in a rather stirring narrative about illegal hotel operations sprouting from residential condo…
Brace yourselves, folks, because Thailand’s infamous Songkran festivities are right around the corner! From April 12 to 16, the country will be buzzing with water fights, cultural celebrations, and, of course, a surge of tourists looking to join in the fun. But in the spirit of keeping everyone safe and sound, the Marine Department has rolled out an impressive security plan across the nation. Forty win (that’s right, 39!) tourist assistance centers have sprung to life, promising a safe haven for merry-makers and promoting responsible tourism. It’s all about having a blast while respecting this beautiful land we’re in! At the heart of this initiative is the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), which is spearheading a campaign that marries safety with environmental responsibility. Whether you’re venturing out to the idyllic islands or exploring vibrant urban forests, rest assured that there’s a safety net in place. These newly-minted support…