THAI NEWS

Thailand a Golden Week hotspot for Japanese tourists

On April 30, 2024, Agoda revealed that Thailand was the second most popular destination for Japanese tourists during Golden Week, following South Korea. The country saw a 60% surge in interest from January to March 2024, demonstrating its appeal due to its vibrant culture and attractions. Main tourist spots include Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Additionally, CEOWORLD magazine ranked Thailand as the top country to visit in 2024, a sentiment echoed by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin who recognized these rankings as a testament to the success of Thailand’s tourism initiatives. Meanwhile, Japan remains the preferred destination for Thai tourists.

THAILAND STRIKES DEAL TO SPEED UP DURIAN EXPORTS TO CHINA

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced that China agreed to extend the operating hours of the Mohan border gate by three hours, which is expected to reduce the transit time for Thai fruits like durian and mangosteen from five days to three. This change, aimed at easing congestion at the border, includes plans to expand the border road from 2 lanes to 12 lanes within two years. These improvements are intended to enhance the efficiency of fruit exports to China, Thailand's largest market, where exports of various fruit categories totaled $6.94 billion in 2023, up 22.77% from the previous year.

English tourist assaults tuk-tuk driver over fare dispute in Phuket

On April 30, 2024, a confrontation between an English traveler and a tuk-tuk driver in Phuket over a fare dispute was captured on video and went viral on social media. The tourist was filmed assaulting the driver, alleging that the driver failed to give the correct change for a 400 baht fare, though the tourist had only paid 100 baht. The situation escalated despite the driver's suggestion to involve the police, raising concerns for his safety. The incident has received mixed reactions online, and as of the last report, neither the Karon Police nor the Phuket Tourist Police had officially commented on the matter, and it's unclear if the driver has pursued formal charges.

An unidentified foreign woman’s body was found on Phuket beach

On May 2, 2024, at 2:45 pm, police in Karon, Phuket, were notified about a body found floating in the waters off Freedom Beach. Rescue workers from the Kusoldharm Foundation quickly responded, using a rubber dinghy to recover the body of a foreign woman believed to be between 25 and 30 years old, and brought it ashore near Nong Harn Lake. The woman, described as having dark skin, short black curly hair, and about 180 centimeters tall, was found wearing only a seashell necklace and a shell bracelet, with no other clothing. There were no visible injuries or signs of a struggle on her body, which has been sent to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further investigation. Police currently suspect drowning as the cause of death and hope that genetic testing will help identify her.

Businesswoman gifts 100 million baht estate to Thai cleaner

In Thailand, a businesswoman named Catherine, who was diagnosed with cancer, tragically took her own life at her Koh Samui villa. Before her death, she left her entire 100 million baht estate to her loyal housekeeper of 17 years, Aunt Tim. The day before her suicide, which was also Tim's birthday, seemed normal until a pool cleaner found Catherine's body the next morning. Tampered CCTV footage has complicated the investigation, but her illness is believed to have driven her decision. Catherine's will included her villa, a luxury car, jewelry, and cash for Tim, who was also tasked with caring for her three cats and handling funeral arrangements. She left two other villas to her ex-husband, Vincent. Her last message detailed her final wishes, indicating her trust in Tim’s integrity.

The Thai tourism industry supports the reintroduction of 300 baht tourist fee

Thailand's tourism industry is advocating for the reintroduction of a 300 baht ($9-10) fee on incoming tourists to fund development and enhance safety standards in services like tour buses and restaurants. The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) is set to discuss this with the new tourism minister amid concerns from the Prime Minister that it might reduce tourist numbers. However, industry leaders argue the fee is vital for addressing budget shortfalls and won’t significantly impact arrivals. The Association of Thai Travel Agents has called for careful implementation and transparency in fund usage to ensure non-tourists are not affected. Additionally, Asia Aviation is seeking discussions on reducing fuel excise taxes due to escalating airline costs from high jet fuel prices.

TikTokers praise American’s helmet donation in Pattaya

Rick Brown, a 57-year-old American living in Pattaya, has gained popularity on TikTok as @savvyrickbrown for giving free motorcycle helmets to Thai children. His initiative, sparked by his recovery from a traumatic helmet-less motorcycle accident that left him with PTSD, has received praise from Thai netizens for enhancing child safety. Having moved to Thailand nearly two years ago for retirement, Brown started this project six months ago. Supported by both Thai and international donors, he plans to distribute one million helmets across Thailand, aiming to improve safety and contribute to the community he loves.

Koh Kradan’s iconic driftwood becomes top photo spot

A giant driftwood log on Koh Kradan's coast, recognized as one of the world's most beautiful beaches in 2023 and 2024, has become a symbol for tourists in Trang province. Celebrated for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, Koh Kradan features three notable driftwood logs, including one shaped like a dragon’s head from the Pa Buk storm in 2019. Protected by national park regulations, these logs have been naturally sculpted into unique shapes by the sea, offering ideal photo spots. According to Pruek Kerdubon, manager of Modtanoy Resort, Koh Kradan's driftwood is the most picturesque in the Trang Sea, as reported by Khaosod.

Health Ministry greenlights medical opium and magic mushrooms

After being separated for 20 years, 33-year-old Ali Bokhari from Saudi Arabia reunited with his Thai nanny, Mrs. Banyen Thongchaithanawayu, who cared for him as a child. Now 77 and living in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Mrs Banyen had not seen Ali since returning to Thailand abruptly when he was 14, due to a family emergency. The reunion, initiated by Ali who traveled to Thailand to find her, was filled with emotion. In gratitude for her care, Ali gifted Mrs Banyen a 3-wheeled electric motorcycle to help her mobility and promised to cover her medical travel costs. He plans to visit her every year, maintaining their deep bond.

THAI EVENTS

Mango Art Festival 2024

• May 7, 2024 - May 12, 2024

• River City Bangkok, Zone 1

The Mango Art Festival, Asia's premier art event, combines art, design, and performance for an unparalleled immersive experience. Aimed at promoting Thailand's creative economy, the festival positions the country as a prime destination for art and design tourism. The fourth edition, themed 'Journey: An Artistic Odyssey to the Cosmos,' offers a transformative exploration of art's limitless potential. Scheduled from May 7th to May 12th at River City Bangkok, the festival invites attendees to experience a vibrant celebration of diverse artistic expressions and embark on a memorable cosmic journey through creativity.

THAILAND UNFILTERED

Krabi

Explore the stunning beauty of Krabi, a gem along Thailand’s Andaman Sea, famous for its impressive limestone cliffs, beautiful islands, and clear blue waters full of colorful marine life. Krabi isn’t just about gorgeous beaches; it’s also a place for exciting activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and island-hopping that fill your days with fun and wonder. Beyond its natural beauty, Krabi offers a rich cultural experience and delicious local food that deepen your connection to this paradise.

Stay tuned for our next newsletter where we'll explore Krabi further, uncovering hidden spots and local secrets that add to the magic of this destination.