THAI NEWS

Thai police arrest foreigners for fraud in Bangkok and Pattaya

The Thai Immigration Police Bureau (IBP) arrested a South Korean and a Taiwanese in Bangkok and Pattaya for fraud, upon requests from their respective countries. The South Korean, Oh, 51, was caught operating a scam call center, defrauding victims of over 200 million won, while the Taiwanese, Meilee, 66, was involved in a real estate scam costing investors over 608 million baht. Both were caught with the cooperation of international law enforcement, showcasing Thailand's refusal to shelter international fugitives.

Russian couple’s dine and dash attempt exposed in Phuket restaurant

In Phuket, Thailand, a Russian couple was caught on CCTV trying to leave a restaurant without paying, falsely accusing waitress Santanee of theft after staff questioned their claim of settling the bill. CCTV review revealed the man removing a banknote he had pretended to place in the bill folder. Upon being shown the evidence, the couple apologized and paid, admitting they hadn't anticipated the camera's capture. Despite feeling deeply insulted, Santanee refrained from legal action, though the incident led to online debates over tourist behavior and the leniency of Thai law towards foreigners.

Don Mueang Airport prepares for Songkran holiday travel spike

Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport is set to welcome around 625,000 passengers during the Songkran holiday from April 11 to 17, expecting over 4,000 flights—a 10.58% increase from last year. This boost is credited to government efforts to increase domestic spending and tourism. The airport will handle about 4,117 flights, averaging 590 daily, with a mix of 2,432 domestic and international flights. To accommodate the surge and enhance the passenger experience, Don Mueang Airport has introduced several new features, including self-service check-in, a bag drop system, a passenger validation system, self-boarding gates, and improved facilities for passengers with special needs.

Taking off: Passenger charges soar at six major Thai airports

The Airports of Thailand Plc has increased passenger service charges at six major airports: Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Don Mueang, Hat Yai, Phuket, and Suvarnabhumi. International flight fees rose from 700 to 730 baht, and domestic from 100 to 130 baht. This adjustment, announced by AOT President Kerati Kijmanawat on April 1, supports the cost of implementing the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS), enhancing automated services like boarding, check-ins, and bag drops.

Kaeng Tai Pla from southern Thailand was voted the worst dish in the world

TasteAtlas ranked Kaeng Tai Pla, a sour curry dish from southern Thailand with fish entrails, as the worst in its "100 Worst Rated Foods in the World." Despite Thailand's culinary acclaim, this dish's intense flavor and aroma contributed to its low ranking. The decision sparked debate among Thai netizens, suggesting the dish's unique taste might be challenging for foreigners. This ranking is notable given other Thai dishes like pad kaprao, khao soi, and phanaeng curry are celebrated among the world's best on TasteAtlas, showcasing the diverse tastes in global cuisine.

THAI EVENTS

Thailand Toy Expo 2024

• Thursday April 4th until 7th of April 2024

• Central World999/9 Rama1 Rd, Pathumwan,
  Pathum Wan District,
  Bangkok

The Thailand Toy Expo 2024, themed “New Fairy Tale,” offers a diverse collection of collectibles over a four-day event. Beyond the main attraction of toys, attendees can engage in workshops, participate in a cosplay competition on April 7, and meet popular toy designers. A unique "Spiritual Zone" will explore Thai culture and art, while collectors can bid on limited edition items. The expo also features numerous designer booths and a special Hong Kong Pavilion showcasing works from 20 Hong Kong designers. Celebrating its 12th year, the expo will be held at CentraWorld's Dazzle Zone from April 4-7, with free admission.

THAILAND UNFILTERED

Chiang Rai province 

Chiang Rai, located in the north of Thailand, is full of cultural sights and natural beauty. It's well-known for its eye-catching temples, such as the White Temple and the Blue Temple, which are famous for their creative designs and bright colors. The Black House Museum showcases a mix of old and new art by Thawan Duchanee. Visitors can enjoy amazing views at the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, and learn about the different cultures of the local hill tribes. Other attractions include the Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park, which has historical items, and the beautifully landscaped gardens of the Doi Tung Royal Villa. For those who love the outdoors, there's plenty to do like hiking through green hills and seeing the stunning Khun Korn Waterfall. With its wealth of art, culture, and natural spots, Chiang Rai is a must-see in Thailand.

Keep an eye on our upcoming newsletter, where we'll explore the captivating Chiangrai in more detail!