THAI NEWS

Thailand sees 60% rise in Indian tourists with new visa-free policy

Thai Government spokesperson Chai Watcharong announced a successful visa-free policy for Indian tourists, effective from May 11 to November 11, to boost tourism and stimulate Thailand’s economy. Since the policy's introduction, bookings by Indian tourists have surged by 60% according to Airbnb, with a 200% increase in searches for accommodations during major holidays like Holi Festival and Easter. Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Koh Samui are the top destinations, with many bookings made by Gen Z and Gen Y, who prefer accommodations with pools, on tropical beaches, near national parks, or in urban areas. This demographic often travels in groups of three to five or more, reflecting a strong interest in exploring Thailand.

Aussie man sues Thai ex-wife after Danish affair & money swindle

An Australian man, Stephen Graham Goodes, is suing his Thai ex-wife, Paralee Saemalakor, accusing her of having an affair and swindling his money. Paralee, on the other hand, claims unfair treatment by Thai police who sided with Goodes. She alleges that police officers threatened her into paying 400,000 baht to Goodes, leading her to seek help from the Mueang Pattaya Police Station. On May 30, officers allegedly demanded 100,000 baht from her to settle the case. Despite her denial of the allegations, Paralee, under duress and fearing jail, managed to gather 50,000 baht by borrowing and pawning her jewelry. This amount was handed over to Goodes at the police station, with officers claiming she still owed 350,000 baht.

Man trampled by elephant while foraging in Nam Nao Park

A 61-year-old man named Sakorn was fatally trampled by an elephant in Nam Nao National Park while foraging for mushrooms. This marks the second elephant-related fatality in the area this year. Responding to the incident, authorities found Sakorn's body with severe injuries near Highway 12, alongside evidence of elephant presence. Reports suggest that villagers had entered the park at night to collect mushrooms and dispersed. Early morning, after hearing an elephant trumpeting, they discovered Sakorn dead. Officials believe a protective mother elephant, startled by Sakorn's presence, attacked to defend her calf.

Bangkok Airways, SO/ Maldives eye growth in tourism boom

Bangkok Airways and SO/ Maldives are optimistic about expanding their business in the Maldives, a top destination for Thai tourists. Last year, the Maldives saw a record 1.8 million visitors. Bangkok Airways resumed flights to the Maldives in September, with four weekly flights from Bangkok to Malé. The airline aims to increase its load factor from 50% to 70% by year-end. SO/ Maldives, launched by S Hotels and Resorts and operated by Ennismore, sees significant business opportunities in the Maldives' growing tourism market.

Flooding in Nakhon Ratchasima boosts income with tadpole sales

Heavy rainfall in Nakhon Ratchasima has caused flooding in several areas, leading locals to catch tadpoles in rice fields. These tadpoles, valued at 300 baht per kilogram, are used in traditional dishes, helping reduce household expenses and generate additional income. In Khun Thong subdistrict, Bua Yai district, the rain has flooded agricultural lands, creating ideal conditions for frogs and toads to reproduce. Residents gather the tadpoles, known as Ih-wok, using fishing nets. These tadpoles are made into local dishes like tadpole chili paste, soup, and curry. Chanta Kaewphaitoon, a local resident, noted that the recent rainfall has improved conditions after a severe drought, providing a new source of income for farmers.

70% of Thais support methamphetamine threshold for legal action

Thailand’s Public Health Ministry revealed that 70% of Thai citizens support a minimum threshold of one methamphetamine pill for legal proceedings, while 30% prefer zero tolerance. The threshold is deemed necessary for effective law enforcement. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, at the opening of the new Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine Centre in Udon Thani, emphasized the Ministry's dedication to drug rehabilitation and public health development. The new center, part of the Ministry’s strategy, offers services including medical cannabis clinics and traditional Thai massage therapy. This initiative aims to elevate traditional Thai medicine standards and support the local community.

Chinese tourist missing in Thailand, 25 million baht ransom

A Chinese tourist, 27-year-old Xinlei Lu, has gone missing while vacationing in Thailand. Her father received a ransom demand of 25 million baht for her release. The alert came from a Thai-Chinese interpreter, Moo, associated with the national cycling team coach. Lu arrived in Thailand on June 5 with over 10 friends, initially staying at Evergreen Place Siam Hotel before moving to The Quarter Onnut Hotel. Around 6 pm yesterday, her father received a WeChat call demanding the ransom. Investigations at The Quarter Onnut Hotel confirmed Lu checked out at 3:11 pm, with CCTV footage showing her leaving alone. Although a flight to Singapore was booked for her at 8:25 pm, checks revealed no records of her departure from Thailand.

Thailand investigates boat Crash injuring four Chinese tourists

Thailand’s Transport Ministry investigated a boat crash near Tha Tien pier that injured four Chinese tourists. Around 4 pm on the Chao Phraya River, a long-tailed tour boat collided with a Royal Thai Navy ferry. The tourists were rescued and treated for minor injuries. The tour boat sank, while the ferry sustained minor damage. The boat owner compensated for damages, and the Marine Department investigated. If negligence was found, the owner's license would be suspended. Measures to improve passenger safety were being developed. The tour boat’s license was set to expire in February 2024, and the helmsman was certified until March 2028.

New automatic passport control tested at Suvarnabhumi Airport

Suvarnabhumi Airport has introduced a new Automatic Channel for passport control, tested by Airports of Thailand (AOT) chairman Wisanu Prasarttong-Osoth before its official launch. Aimed at easing congestion and improving efficiency, the system can process both Thai and foreign nationals at a rate of four people per minute using passport scanning and facial recognition. This initiative, part of AOT's efforts to upgrade the airport's outdated system and support immigration officers, aligns with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's vision to make Suvarnabhumi a major aviation hub. Initially, 56 machines will be installed at international departures, with plans to expand to other airports, enhancing passenger flow and maintaining security.

THAI EVENTS

Satun Surf Festival 2024

• June 8-9, 2024

• Bo Chet Lok Beach, La-ngu District, Satun

Join the Satun Surf Festival 2024, a vibrant event for surf enthusiasts and water sports lovers. Experience "Satun Style" surfing amid beautiful seas, beaches, mountains, cliffs, and mangrove forests, intertwined with the local lifestyle and fishing villages.

• First Wave, Good Vibes: Start the surfing season with joy at Satun's inaugural surf festival.

• Surf: Learn from professional surfers and instructors, covering basic to advanced techniques. Enjoy various water sports.

• Eco: Participate in environmental conservation activities to protect Satun's natural beauty.

• Craft: Join eco-friendly workshops led by local entrepreneurs and artists.

• Music: Enjoy live music on the beach, with stunning views of the sea and mountains in Bor Jed Luk village.

Don't miss the Satun Surf Festival 2024! For more information, visit Satun Surf Festival.

THAILAND UNFILTERED

Khao Yai

Explore the captivating beauty of Ao Nang, Thailand, a destination renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exciting water activities. Located in Krabi province, Ao Nang offers an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure, from lounging on pristine sands and diving into crystal-clear waters to exploring majestic limestone cliffs. The lively town center boasts bustling markets, delicious street food, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Ao Nang is a gateway to famous marine attractions, where you can snorkel vibrant coral reefs, kayak through mangrove forests, or enjoy sunset cruises. For cultural enthusiasts, local temples offer a glimpse into the region's rich history. Stay tuned for our next newsletter, where we'll provide more detailed information.