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Local volunteer killed in shooting after Pattani football match Photo courtesy of The Thaiger A government volunteer named Athar Hama was fatally shot while he was on his way home from a football game in Pattani yesterday. A group of unknown gunmen aimed a single shot at Athar as he was riding his motorcycle at around 5.45pm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328661-local-volunteer-killed-in-shooting-after-pattani-football-match/

A government volunteer named Athar Hama was fatally shot while he was on his way home from a football game in Pattani yesterday. A group of unknown gunmen aimed a single shot at Athar as he was riding his motorcycle at around 5.45pm. The Village Chief of Moo 6, Kadunong subdistrict, Santo district, Pattani, reported the event to the District Head of Sai Buri. Athar's lifeless body was discovered by the roadside. He had been making his way home to his wife after taking part in a local football match, riding a white Honda Wave 125i motorcycle. Local residents immediately rushed him to Somdet Phra Yupparat Sai Buri Hospital. However, Athar's life could not be saved due to his severe injuries. His death was met with deep sadness in the community, where he was known to be a dedicated member of the volunteer defense corps and a respected character. Local authorities are currently investigating the murder, hoping to arrest those responsible. This event emphasises the danger that locals and volunteer workers face, due to the ongoing violence in the region. Athar's death adds to the continuing conflict in southern Thailand, a region that has continually suffered from unrest and violence disrupting daily life. This event highlighted the unstable conditions in the area and the continuous work needed to ensure safety and order. With the investigation still ongoing, officials are asking anyone with any information to step forward. They underscored the importance of cooperation between the community and law enforcement in achieving peace in the region. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Murder suspect poses as foreigner and flees to Hua Hin Photo via Channel 7 and Matichon A Thai man posing as a Hong Kong tourist fled from Pattaya to Hua Hin after allegedly murdering his boyfriend at a condominium in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok. The Thai authorities believe the suspect is heading towards Surat Thani. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328660-murder-suspect-poses-as-foreigner-and-flees-to-hua-hin/

A Thai man posing as a Hong Kong tourist fled from Pattaya to Hua Hin after allegedly murdering his boyfriend at a condominium in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok. The Thai authorities believe the suspect is heading towards Surat Thani. The unidentified man is the prime suspect in the murder of a 54 year old Thai man named Paisaen Thong-on. He was seen exiting Paisarn’s car and entering the condo with him before Paisarn was found dead with multiple stab wounds on May 26. The suspect wore a hoodie and face mask and used Paisarn’s ID card and fake ID cards for financial transactions to conceal his identity from the police. He brought gold bars valued at 1 million baht with Paisarn’s credit cards and later sold Paisarn’s mobile phone at MBK shopping mall in Bangkok. He reportedly lied to the store staff that he had just undergone facial surgery, making his face different from the picture on Paisarn’s ID card. The suspect was seen fleeing from Bangkok to Pattaya and later took a taxi from Pattaya to Hua Hin on May 28. A 51 year old taxi driver, Paiwan, told Channel 3 yesterday that the suspect spoke in English, claiming to be a tourist from Hong Kong and offering him 4,000 baht for the trip to Hua Hin. Paiwan, who only operated within Pattaya, passed the job on to a female taxi driver named Rat. Rat confirmed that she and the suspect arrived at Hua Hin Night Market around 6pm. The suspect spoke in English and did not exhibit any suspicious behaviour. Hua Hin Police Station Superintendent Kampanart Nawichai reported to Matichon that the suspect had likely left Hua Hin for Surat Thani. The authorities in Surat Thani have been alerted to monitor his entry. However, there is no record of the suspect buying a ticket to Surat Thani at the Hua Hin Bus Terminal. It is suspected that he used a fake ID to book his trip, making it difficult to track him down. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 and Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Buddhist teacher kills neighbour over grass cutting noise Image courtesy of Khaosod A man teaching Buddhist principles through livestreams attacked and killed his neighbour over noise complaints during a grass-cutting session. The incident occurred yesterday in the Chai Wan district of Udon Thani at 11.30am, after police received a report about a fatal assault. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328658-buddhist-teacher-kills-neighbour-over-grass-cutting-noise/

A man teaching Buddhist principles through livestreams attacked and killed his neighbour over noise complaints during a grass-cutting session. The incident occurred yesterday in the Chai Wan district of Udon Thani at 11.30am, after police received a report about a fatal assault. Police Lieutenant Phaitoon Uipako, alongside investigators and medical staff from Chai Wan Hospital, arrived at the scene, a garden next to a house in Ban Khambon. They discovered the body of 55 year old Sodsa lying on his back, dressed in a camouflage long-sleeve shirt, jeans, and sandals. Nearby was a grass-cutting machine. Sodsai had sustained blunt force and sharp injuries to his face. The suspect, 33 year old Kittichai had returned to his house next door and awaited arrest. The police reported that the investigation revealed that Sodsai had been hired to cut grass at a residence in the area. Kittichai, the next-door neighbour, known for livestreaming his daily life and religious teachings on Facebook, was broadcasting around 10am when the noise from the grass cutter interrupted his session. He went next door and asked Sodsai to stop due to the noise interference. This led to a heated argument, but they were separated when the homeowner returned. However, Sodsai resumed cutting the grass later. Kittichai, in a fit of rage contrary to his Buddhist faith, used a ladder to climb over the wall and fatally attacked Sodsai. After the assault, Kittichai livestreamed again, daring the police to arrest him at his residence. His wishes would be granted shortly after as due to his livestream, locals recognised him as the attacker During investigations, Kittichai revealed that he had no intention to kill Sodsa but that the noise had greatly disturbed his teachings. Sodsai was a revered labourer in the local community. A hard-working man respected by many, reported Khaosod. The incident has shocked the community, raising questions about the escalation of minor disputes to deadly violence. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two million meth pills seized in Chiang Rai raid, driver escapes Image courtesy of Khaosod The authorities in Chiang Rai intensified border security in the northern region, collaborating with multiple agencies to intercept drug trafficking operations, culminating in a seizure of two million meth pills today in Ban Mae Salong Nai. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328657-two-million-meth-pills-seized-in-chiang-rai-raid-driver-escapes/

The authorities in Chiang Rai intensified border security in the northern region, collaborating with multiple agencies to intercept drug trafficking operations, culminating in a seizure of two million meth pills today in Ban Mae Salong Nai. Commander of the Northern Border Drug Suppression Command Unit (NBDU 35), General Narit Thawornwong announced that the government has approved expanding urgent operational areas in seven additional districts along the northern border. This initiative aims to curb the persistent drug smuggling activities that use this region as a conduit to inner areas. Recently, Narit visited anti-drug operations to closely monitor the drug smuggling situation, and to reinforce strategies to counter the practices. He emphasised the importance of efficient tactics and boosting morale among the personnel working around the clock. The recent operation involved officers from multiple units, the Narcotics Suppression Bureau 3 (NSB 3), the Thap Chao Tak and Pha Mueang Task forces, and the 3108th Ranger Company of NBDU 35. Together, they managed to seize two million meth pills in Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai Province. Officials had received intelligence about an impending drug shipment from the border area of Chiang Rai. Yesterday, they spotted a suspicious vehicle coming from Mae Fah Luang District and pursued it closely. When the vehicle reached Ban Mae Salong Nai in Sri Kham Subdistrict, the driver unloaded several sacks from the vehicle. As the officers moved in to inspect, the driver sped off, leading to a high-speed chase. Despite their efforts, the suspect, familiar with the terrain, managed to escape. Upon inspecting the abandoned sacks, authorities discovered they contained a total of two million meth pills, packed in ten rainbow-coloured sacks, with each holding 200,000 pills, reported Khaosod. This successful drug interception highlights the ongoing challenges and efforts in combating drug trafficking in Thailand’s northern border regions. The authorities remain vigilant and are constantly adapting their strategies to counteract the sophisticated methods employed by drug traffickers. The cooperation among various military and police units underscores the importance of a unified approach in tackling this pressing issue. By Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A minor earthquake occurs in Koh Samui during intense weather advisory warnings Photo courtesy of The Thaiger A minor earthquake with a magnitude of 2.4 hit near Koh Samui in Surat Thani today, May 30, at 8.24am. According to the Earthquake Surveillance Division of the Thailand Meteorological Department, the quake occurred 4 kilometers below the earth's surface and caused noticeable ground shake around the Ang Thong sub-district of Koh Samui area. The quake was triggered by the release of heat energy from beneath the earth's crust. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328594-a-minor-earthquake-occurs-in-koh-samui-during-intense-weather-advisory-warnings/

A minor earthquake with a magnitude of 2.4 hit near Koh Samui in Surat Thani today, May 30, at 8.24am. According to the Earthquake Surveillance Division of the Thailand Meteorological Department, the quake occurred 4 kilometers below the earth's surface and caused noticeable ground shake around the Ang Thong sub-district of Koh Samui area. The quake was triggered by the release of heat energy from beneath the earth's crust. Residents in Surat Thani Province reported feeling both their houses and the ground shaking, with some mentioning a loud noise similar to an explosion. Although there were no reports of damage, local people did describe car alarms going off, indicating a significant level of disturbance from the quake. In addition to this seismic event, meteorological authorities warned of incoming thunderstorms across Thailand triggered by a southwesterly monsoon covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Sea sailors in these areas are being advised to be cautious as wave heights could reach 1 to 2 meters. This weather pattern may be influenced by a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin. These combined events of the earthquake and the forecasted adverse weather highlight the need for local residents and visitors in Thailand to stay alert and heed any guidance from the authorities. Despite the challenges, it's a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to both earthquakes and severe weather, and the authorities are actively watching the situation to ensure public safety. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A Thai man swam across the risky Chao Phraya River in Samut Prakan province to avoid arrest, prompted by the fear of not seeing his girlfriend. Called to a nearby convenience store, a police officer from Phra Pradaeng Police Station was tasked with apprehending 32-year-old Pichitchai. He was called in after Pichitchai was discovered stealing a 35 baht bottle of cooling powder. While being taken to the station on a motorcycle, Pichitchai escaped from the officer, ran to Phra Pradaeng Pier, and in spite of his handcuffs, grabbed a life jacket and a rubber ring to swim across the Chao Phraya River. Though exhausted, Pichitchai refused to return to shore instead, he pleaded for the help of a passing ferry. Seeing his handcuffs, the ferry occupants feared for their safety and did not assist him. Undeterred, Pichitchai swam to the other side of the river, intending to reach his girlfriend's place. However, on arrival, he was apprehended by waiting police. Pichitchai revealed that his theft of the cooling powder originated from having only 10 baht. His fear of a repeated prison sentence, having previously served three years for illegal gun ownership, and the fear of not seeing his girlfriend again prompted his actions. Pichitchai confessed that he was extremely scared while swimming across the river. Although he knew he would eventually be arrested, he wanted to see his girlfriend one last time before he was imprisoned again. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai authorities capture 19 million methamphetamine tablets in a major drug crackdown File photo for reference only Thai law enforcement officers have seized over 19 million methamphetamine pills and targeted an operation against the K2 Network, seizing assets valued at over 18 million baht. The operation was made possible through a combined effort between different law enforcement agencies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328592-thai-authorities-capture-19-million-methamphetamine-tablets-in-a-major-drug-crackdown/

Thai law enforcement officers have seized over 19 million methamphetamine pills and targeted an operation against the K2 Network, seizing assets valued at over 18 million baht. The operation was made possible through a combined effort between different law enforcement agencies. Nirandorn Leamsri, Assistant Commissioner-General, and Keereesak Tantinwachai, Commissioner of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, led a press conference today where they announced the results of a drug-busting operation that ran from May 14 to May 22. During this operation, over 19 million methamphetamine pills were confiscated. A targeted operation against 100 drug networks also took place, which included the infamous K2 Network. Additionally, assets worth over 10 million baht (US$271,000) were seized. Adis Jaroensawat, Commander of Narcotics Suppression Bureau 3, explained that intelligence gathered from six border drug-trafficking cases led to an extended investigation which resulted in them confiscating 16,650,000 methamphetamine pills and 1.155 kilogrammes of cocaine. Fourteen suspects were arrested, and assets worth 18,115,000 baht (US$491,000) were seized from them. The investigation highlighted the K2 Network's involvement, originating from the arrests of two individuals, Narenth and Thosapol, on July 18, 2022. The research found that an individual named Chakri, also known by aliases Ice or Sor Or Lumlukka had hired them for drug transportation. The investigation also connected the network to Art Tam-Iew and Thaphanan, also known as Nu Chern, who are thought to be hiding in Thachilek, Myanmar. The investigation found continuous illegal activities in Central Thailand and supporters who laundered money for Chakri whilst holding assets. This information sparked the operation to raid the K2 Network and seize its assets. Officers confiscated a total of 31 items believed to be bought with drug money in locations such as Nakhon Nayok, Pathum Thani, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, and Bangkok. Items included firearms, high-end bags, costly watches, rings, iPhones, bank account books, and vehicles, all totaling up to 10,280,000 baht (US$280,000) in value. Vitath Barirak, Commander of the Narcotics Control Suppression Unit, announced that his unit, working with the Highway Police Division and Provincial Police Region 5, confiscated a further 2,000,000 methamphetamine pills and arrested suspect Sithichai, a black Hyundai van driver, in Phayao Province. This press conference summarized a two-week operation targeting four main drug networks in northern Thailand. The operation also included efforts to intercept cocaine smuggling. File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Local Residents Shocked as Toddler Falls into Uncovered Drainage Hole File photo for reference only A three-year-old boy, lovingly called Big, accidentally fell into an open drain while playing in front of his home in Samut Sakhon. This incident happened yesterday in Moo 3, within the Bang Ya Phraek sub-district of the Mueang District. The entire encounter was recorded on a nearby CCTV camera. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328591-local-residents-shocked-as-toddler-falls-into-uncovered-drainage-hole/

A three-year-old boy, lovingly called Big, accidentally fell into an open drain while playing in front of his home in Samut Sakhon. This incident happened yesterday in Moo 3, within the Bang Ya Phraek sub-district of the Mueang District. The entire encounter was recorded on a nearby CCTV camera. Big was playing outside, running and riding his bicycle when he fell into an open drain about 1 meter deep. The drain was left open due to some road repair work in the area. Big's older brother, who was playing nearby, saw the incident and rushed to help him. Some construction workers close by, alerted by Big's cries, also came rushing and managed to pull the boy out. Big was drenched and dirty, with minor scratches on his body. Worried for her son's health, particularly since he had a history of seizures as an infant, his mother immediately took him to the Samut Sakhon Hospital. Thankfully, doctors found the boy to be physically fine, although understandably scared from the incident. The open drain was promptly covered with a metal sheet by officials to avoid similar incidents in the future. Big's mother is now seeking responsibility from the relevant authorities for the hazardous situation in the residential area. She voiced her worry and frustration about the safety of other children in the neighborhood, stating, "It is unacceptable that a child could fall into an open drain. We need answers and assurance that this won't happen again." File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Excessive tourism could jeopardize Koh Larn's future File photo for reference only A member of Pattaya City Council, Phasakorn Yusoomboon, has expressed concern over the increasing number of tourists and unchecked development on Koh Larn Island. Phasakorn, who represents Pattaya District 1, brought up the issue at the recent council meeting, pointing out that the island daily receives over 10,000 tourists. This number can even reach up to 20,000 during peak seasons. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328589-excessive-tourism-could-jeopardize-koh-larns-future/

A member of Pattaya City Council, Phasakorn Yusoomboon, has expressed concern over the increasing number of tourists and unchecked development on Koh Larn Island. Phasakorn, who represents Pattaya District 1, brought up the issue at the recent council meeting, pointing out that the island daily receives over 10,000 tourists. This number can even reach up to 20,000 during peak seasons. This tourism surge has led to a rapid increase in construction projects, which includes resorts, hotels, and pool villas – raising serious environmental concerns among the locals. Phasakorn noted the severe impact this is having on the island, such as water shortages, power outages, waste accumulation, and an overstrained sewage system. He stressed that urgent action is required to protect the island's future, and called on Pattaya City to begin managing tourist numbers and institute strict regulations on new construction activities. In response, Pattaya's Deputy Mayor, Manoch Nongyai, acknowledged the looming problems. He noted that the island, with over 4,000 rooms across different accommodations, attracts varied tourists, including Chinese and Indian tourists for day trips, and Europeans and Thais for longer stays. He reassured that the city keeps a close watch on construction activities and takes action against illegal buildings. He also indicated that the city is considering the introduction of a tourist entry fee to better manage the influx of visitors to the island. File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monk in scandalous video leaves Kalasin locals in disbelief - video Malai Khotsri, the village head of Ban Khok Klang. Image: Daily News A controversial video featuring a bald man engaging in a sexual act sparked widespread criticism due to the resemblance to a well-known monk, the abbot of a forest temple in Kalasin province. Recent reports confirm the monk’s absence from the temple. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328587-monk-in-scandalous-video-leaves-kalasin-locals-in-disbelief-video/

A controversial video featuring a bald man engaging in a sexual act sparked widespread criticism due to the resemblance to a well-known monk, the abbot of a forest temple in Kalasin province. Recent reports confirm the monk’s absence from the temple. Malai Khotsri, the village head of Ban Khok Klang, Kuchinarai District, Kalasin, today confirmed seeing the viral clip of a bald man, similar to the monk, performing oral sex on another man but remains sceptical without direct evidence. He noted his long acquaintance with the monk, who had been a part of the temple since he was 11 years old and later ordained as a monk in the area, eventually becoming a revered figure in the community. Malai highlighted the monk’s contributions to the community, including educating locals on sustainable agricultural projects and promoting self-sufficiency. He stressed that the monk had never exhibited any behaviour that would tarnish the Buddhist faith. He states that due to personal reasons, he cannot comment further on this matter, expressing the need to await the monk’s explanation regarding the video. He further commented that seeing the clip and hearing the news was shocking and hard to believe. The monk, who had been absent from the temple for over 20 days, had informed Malai of his intention to retreat for solitude but did not specify his location. The clip surfaced on social media during this period, leading to speculation and the current investigation. Malai emphasised the need for fairness to both parties involved, acknowledging that personal faith varies among individuals. Reports indicate that the Office of National Buddhism in Kalasin and the Provincial Sangha Committee are aware of the situation. The Director of the Office of National Buddhism for Kalasin, Siamphat Thipsorn, and other officials plan to brief Phra Methiwachiracharn, the provincial head monk and abbot of Wat Klang, a royal temple. They aim to discuss the incident and determine the next steps in addressing the issue, reported Khaosod. By Ryan Turner Malai Khotsri, the village head of Ban Khok Klang. Image: Daily News Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man’s fake drug ‘drama’ on TikTok sparks online backlash Photo by TikTok @user5x4si02uek via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว 3 A Thai man in the Isaan province of Buriram is facing a backlash after faking drug addiction and posting a video of his staged rampage on TikTok in search of online attention. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328586-thai-man’s-fake-drug-‘drama’-on-tiktok-sparks-online-backlash/

A Thai man in the Isaan province of Buriram is facing a backlash after faking drug addiction and posting a video of his staged rampage on TikTok in search of online attention. A Facebook page, Esor News 3, shared a video of a drug-addicted Thai man yesterday, May 29, with a caption read, “It will be better if you consume more rice than drugs. I feel sorry for his parents, even the chicken in the coop.” The video showed the shirtless man hitting many objects with a wooden stick and kicking a chicken coop while shouting expletives at the person filming. Thai netizens flooded the comments section with complaints and calls for the government to take the drug problem more seriously. The viral video prompted police officers to raid the man’s home in the Lam Prai Mart district in Buriram province. The man, later identified as 25 year old Tai, admitted that the situation in the video was fake. Tai confessed in an interview with Channel 7 that he had faked the situation for content on his TikTok account, insisting that no objects were damaged and no animals were harmed. Tai stated that despite posting numerous videos on his TikTok account, he received minimal feedback from netizens. Consequently, he decided to create a video in hopes of garnering attention to his account. Expressing his dismay, Tai revealed that his video depicting a staged rampage received over 11 million views and garnered numerous comments. However, only two netizens offered sympathy. Tai proceeded to recount that two police officers visited his home the day after he posted the video. He clarified to them his intentions, explaining that he aimed to attract followers to share the story of his younger brother, who was fatally shot four years ago, with the case still unresolved. Denying any involvement with drugs or alcohol, Tai underwent a drug test, which confirmed his claims. Although the police did not press charges, they cautioned him against repeating such actions. By Petch Petpailin Photo by TikTok @user5x4si02uek via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว 3 Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

King names MRT Yellow Line Nakkhara Phiphat for prosperity Image courtesy of Wikipedia The King of Thailand has graciously bestowed the name Nakkhara Phiphat, meaning prosperity of the city, on the Yellow Line of the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328585-king-names-mrt-yellow-line-nakkhara-phiphat-for-prosperity/

The King of Thailand has graciously bestowed the name Nakkhara Phiphat, meaning prosperity of the city, on the Yellow Line of the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT). The announcement was made today, following the Ministry of Transport’s efforts through the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) to implement the Yellow Line project. This line, running from Lat Phrao to Samrong, is a secondary public transport system (feeder) designed to enhance and expand the mass transit network in Bangkok and its surrounding areas. Notably, it introduced the monorail system to Thailand for the first time and began commercial operations on July 3, 2023. The name Nakkhara Phiphat (pronounced Nak-ka-ra Phip-phat) signifies urban prosperity, bringing joy and auspiciousness to the Ministry of Transport, MRTA, and the commuting public. The Ministry of Transport and MRTA remain committed to improving rail transportation to facilitate public convenience, aligning with the king’s royal ambition to preserve, sustain, and enhance public welfare in the transportation and public service sectors. The Nakkhara Phiphat MRT line spans 30.4 kilometres, featuring elevated tracks throughout its route. It comprises 23 stations, operating from 6am to midnight. Key transfer points along the route connect with four main MRT Blue Line (Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line), the Orange Line (Thailand Cultural Centre to Min Buri), the Airport Rail Link and the Eastern Railway Line, and the Green Line (Bearing to Samut Prakan). Additionally, car users utilise the park-and-ride facilities at Si Iam Station and Lat Phrao Station to seamlessly integrate into the mass transit system. These facilities operate from 5am to 1am. The introduction of the monorail system marks a significant milestone in Thailand’s public transportation history. By providing a reliable and efficient transit option, it aims to alleviate traffic congestion and improve the daily commute for Bangkok residents. The Yellow Line’s strategic connections with other major lines ensure a cohesive transit network, promoting accessibility and convenience for all passengers. This initiative reflects broader efforts to modernise Bangkok’s infrastructure, positioning the city as a hub of advanced urban transit solutions. The Yellow Line, with its state-of-the-art monorail technology, not only enhances mobility but also signifies a forward-thinking approach to urban planning and development, reported Khaosod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Wikipedia Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian guests find a ‘Thai’-light in Airbnb bookings surge Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News New data from Airbnb reveals a significant rise in bookings by Indian guests in Thailand between 2022 and 2023. The statistics show an impressive increase of over 60% year-on-year, with notable peaks during the recent long holiday weekends. During these periods, searches by Indian guests for stays in Thailand surged by more than 200%. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328584-indian-guests-find-a-‘thai’-light-in-airbnb-bookings-surge/

New data from Airbnb reveals a significant rise in bookings by Indian guests in Thailand between 2022 and 2023. The statistics show an impressive increase of over 60% year-on-year, with notable peaks during the recent long holiday weekends. During these periods, searches by Indian guests for stays in Thailand surged by more than 200%. According to Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports, India ranks as the fifth-largest inbound market for the country. This boost in interest from Indian travellers is largely attributed to the Thai government’s visa-free policy, which has made travelling more accessible for Indian tourists. The changing demographics in India, with a travel-inclined younger generation, particularly Gen Z and Millennial guests, have driven this surge. In 2023, these groups accounted for 80% of Airbnb bookings from India. Thailand’s popularity among Indian travellers is evident in their preferred destinations. The top five most booked locations by Indian guests on Airbnb include Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Samui. These destinations highlight a preference for both city and beach getaways. Popular Airbnb categories for Indian guests in Thailand feature stays with pools, tropical settings, proximity to beaches or national parks, and iconic city locations. Airbnb data indicates that duo and solo travellers are the largest groups among Indian guests, while small groups (three to five people) and medium-sized groups (five people and above) are the fastest-growing segments. These groups saw increases of approximately 67% and 68% year-on-year, respectively, in 2023. Travellers from India on Airbnb continue to show their love for Thailand, with a growing interest in exploring destinations across the country. In addition to some of Thailand’s top destinations, we see Indian guests also exploring lesser-known areas and supporting more inclusive tourism in Thailand that spreads economic opportunities to more people in more places, not just big cities, said Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. The extension of the visa waiver for citizens of both countries by the Thai government is expected to further boost inbound tourism. This policy supports the strong appetite for Thailand among Indian travellers, and Airbnb plans to continue supporting Thailand’s tourism initiatives to keep the country top of mind for Indian tourists, reported The Pattaya News. Favouring beach destinations and pool villas, the most wish-listed Amazing Pools stays by Indian guests on Airbnb in 2023 include properties in Phuket, Krabi, Samui, and Pattaya. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe