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Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a shocking incident earlier today, March 13, at a luxury condominium in Pathum Thani, a 19-year-old marketing student reportedly attacked a fellow student during a bout of marijuana-induced paranoia. The altercation left the victim, identified as Korn, with multiple stab wounds to his face, chest, and right arm. Emergency services quickly transported Korn to Thammasat University Hospital for urgent care. The alleged assailant, Boss, also a 19-year-old student from the same Rangsit university, fled the scene but initially stayed within the condo complex. Police from Khlong Luang Police Station arrived to find significant evidence, including a pool of blood and a blood-stained knife near Boss's room. Despite several attempts to contact Boss, he did not respond, prompting officers to enter his room via the balcony. Inside, they discovered it abandoned, though crucial items such as Boss's mobile phone and driver's licence were retrieved. It's believed Boss fled the premises prior to the police's arrival. The injured Korn explained to investigators that the attack was triggered by Boss's unfounded suspicion, fuelled by marijuana, that Korn was trying to steal his girlfriend. This paranoia escalated into violence within room 771 on the first floor of the condominium. Authorities learned that Boss contacted his father for assistance after the incident. Despite assurances to the police that his father would bring him in, Boss remains at large, and the police are actively searching for him to fully understand the motives behind the violent act, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Dog's Bark Brings Rescuers To 5m King Cobra Under Car Bonnet Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A peculiar barking from a family dog led to a remarkable event in Krabi, where a massive king cobra, measuring almost 5 metres and weighing over 30 kilogrammes, was discovered under a car bonnet. The startling find unfolded yesterday, March 12, when rescue teams from the Pracharuamjai Foundation were summoned to the Thung Yai district in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, where it borders Khao Phanom district in Krabi. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354505-dogs-bark-brings-rescuers-to-5m-king-cobra-under-car-bonnet/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A peculiar barking from a family dog led to a remarkable event in Krabi, where a massive king cobra, measuring almost 5 metres and weighing over 30 kilogrammes, was discovered under a car bonnet. The startling find unfolded yesterday, March 12, when rescue teams from the Pracharuamjai Foundation were summoned to the Thung Yai district in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, where it borders Khao Phanom district in Krabi. The dramatic incident began when Jirawat, the homeowner, was alerted by his dog's abnormal barking. Upon investigation, he found the colossal snake slithering under his red car, prompting immediate action. Lacking the expertise to handle such a dangerous animal, Jirawat contacted local rescue officials for help. The challenge was significant due to the snake's intricate position within the car's engine compartment. However, after careful manoeuvring, the rescue team successfully captured the snake, much to the astonishment of bystanders. Identified as a royal king cobra, the serpent was relocated to a secure area away from human habitation. Experts from the Nakhon Si Thammarat's Protected Area Regional Office 5 noted that encounters with king cobras increase during the dry season, as the snakes venture into villages searching for dwindling water and food supplies. This time also coincides with their mating season, raising the likelihood of sightings. Residents near forested areas are advised to remain vigilant and take precautions against these potentially dangerous reptiles, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Bangkok Rises as Global Culinary Giant, Ranks 2nd Best Food City Photo courtesy of Shutterstock In an impressive feat, Bangkok has clinched the second spot in Time Out's renowned list of the world's best food cities for 2025, only trailing behind New Orleans. The Thai capital's culinary scene, famed for its vibrant street food and emerging fine dining, continues to entice food aficionados with an unmatched combination of flavour, affordability, and convenience. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354504-bangkok-rises-as-global-culinary-giant-ranks-2nd-best-food-city/

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock In an impressive feat, Bangkok has clinched the second spot in Time Out's renowned list of the world's best food cities for 2025, only trailing behind New Orleans. The Thai capital's culinary scene, famed for its vibrant street food and emerging fine dining, continues to entice food aficionados with an unmatched combination of flavour, affordability, and convenience. A recent survey by Time Out revealed that a staggering 86% of Bangkok's residents rated the city's food scene as "good" or "amazing". With its ubiquitous street vendors offering culinary delights like noodle dishes and spicy som tam around the clock, Bangkok's street food culture proved pivotal in achieving the high rank. However, the city isn't just about street fare; its fine dining scene is gaining ground, drawing attention to hidden gems such as the famed eateries in Yaowarat and Banthat Thong Road. The latter was highlighted as the 14th best street globally, known for its dynamic culinary offerings. Bangkok's food landscape captivates with its diversity and adaptability, catering to all tastes and budgets. Iconic districts like Chinatown and the Old Town remain havens for traditional fare, while trendy cocktail bars and fusion restaurants add a contemporary flair. The ranking, based on evaluations of quality, affordability, and insights from industry experts, underscores Bangkok's standing as a premier destination for global food enthusiasts, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Viral Elephant T-Shirts Aid Phuket Sanctuary Through Unusual Art Photo via Instagram/ farangsgonewild In an unexpected twist of events, an Instagram sensation is turning heads while raising funds for elephants in Thailand. The social media star, known as @farangsgonewild, shared a viral post about an elephant sketch drawn by a Thai woman during a unique performance at a ping pong show in Bangkok. Intriguingly, proceeds from T-shirt sales featuring this artwork will support the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354503-viral-elephant-t-shirts-aid-phuket-sanctuary-through-unusual-art/

Photo via Instagram/ farangsgonewild In an unexpected twist of events, an Instagram sensation is turning heads while raising funds for elephants in Thailand. The social media star, known as @farangsgonewild, shared a viral post about an elephant sketch drawn by a Thai woman during a unique performance at a ping pong show in Bangkok. Intriguingly, proceeds from T-shirt sales featuring this artwork will support the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. The tale begins at the Super Pussy entertainment venue in Patpong, where the Instagrammer, captivated by the spectacle of a ping pong show, witnessed an astonishing feat of dexterity: an elephant sketch created using the artist’s pelvic muscles. Sharing the unusual art on social media, he humorously suggested it deserved a place in the Louvre. Taking the story further, the content creator brought the sketch to the Reignwood Icons of Football event in Bangkok. There, legendary football stars, including Paul Scholes and Luis Figo, added their signatures to the drawing, elevating its status to a masterpiece with a memorable backstory. The viral video of the event attracted substantial attention online, with comments ranging from humorous to praise for what some see as an example of Thailand's "soft power." The creative initiative of turning this art into limited-edition T-shirts aims to yield a positive impact for Phuket elephants, with 100 baht from each sale dedicated to the sanctuary. The Instagrammer's campaign, supported by the signatures of football legends and encouraging charitable contributions, is a testament to the power of social media to inspire both laughter and meaningful change. As the deadline for T-shirt orders approaches, followers keen to own a piece of this extraordinary story are urged to act quickly, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Thailand's Red Line Extension Nears Cabinet Approval in April Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's highly anticipated Red Line railway extension from Siriraj Hospital to Salaya is on the brink of securing final Cabinet approval by April. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced that the 15.17 billion baht project has successfully navigated through all bureaucratic channels. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354502-thailands-red-line-extension-nears-cabinet-approval-in-april/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's highly anticipated Red Line railway extension from Siriraj Hospital to Salaya is on the brink of securing final Cabinet approval by April. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced that the 15.17 billion baht project has successfully navigated through all bureaucratic channels. Key government bodies such as the Finance Ministry, Budget Bureau, and National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) have already given their nod, propelling the proposal towards the Cabinet's decision desk. Meanwhile, the Department of Rail Transport (DRT) is putting the final touches on its preparations, expected to complete within the week. Once ready, the Secretariat of the Cabinet (SoC) will consult other important ministries, like the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, to ensure thorough consideration before the final approval. Suriya is optimistic about everything aligning for an early April decision. This extension stretches nearly 21 kilometres from Taling Chan Station in Bangkok to Salaya Station in Nakhon Pathom. Additionally, a new branch to Siriraj Station will ease access to Siriraj Hospital, incorporating eight new stations along the route. With Cabinet approval, construction will commence in January, targeted for completion by January 2029.

Phuket Sees Surge in Lifestyle Property Investments Amid Tourism Boom Sudara Residences Phuket As tourism in Thailand continues to thrive, the nation is witnessing a significant increase in lifestyle property investments, driven by visitors turning brief stays into longer commitments. Phuket, in particular, is experiencing a 23% rise in tourist arrivals in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to a report by C9 Hotelworks. This trend is fueling an unprecedented boom in the island's rental market, especially for resort-style condominium units in popular areas such as Bangtao. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354501-phuket-sees-surge-in-lifestyle-property-investments-amid-tourism-boom/

Sudara Residences Phuket As tourism in Thailand continues to thrive, the nation is witnessing a significant increase in lifestyle property investments, driven by visitors turning brief stays into longer commitments. Phuket, in particular, is experiencing a 23% rise in tourist arrivals in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to a report by C9 Hotelworks. This trend is fueling an unprecedented boom in the island's rental market, especially for resort-style condominium units in popular areas such as Bangtao. The surge in long-stay rental investments is primarily attributed to buyers from regional markets in Asia, including Thailand, Singapore, and Hong Kong. These investors are drawn by the island’s increasing attractiveness for long-term stays and its potential for rental returns. In line with these trends, the LKF Group, known for its luxurious Andara Resort & Villas, has launched the Sudara Residences Phuket in Bangtao, featuring 220 high-end units with options for private pools, scheduled for completion by 2027. This project exemplifies the new wave of lifestyle investments driven by the burgeoning tourist industry. Dr Allan Zeman, Chairman of LKF Group, highlighted the significant growth in Thailand's tourism sector, particularly in Phuket, and expects this trend to continue driving investment property growth. The C9 Hotelworks report also underlines Thailand's comparative affordability, where real estate and luxury goods, including property and cars, are more attractively priced than in places like Singapore. With the Thai AirAsia offering a 30% discount on direct bookings during the Songkran festival, more travelers are expected to flock to Phuket, increasing the demand for flights from Bangkok to popular destinations such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Udon Thani. As the peak season approaches, now is the time for visitors to book affordable travel and explore the vibrant festival and the alluring opportunity for lifestyle investments in the country's tranquil locales, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Phuket Tourist Faces Unwanted 100-Baht Surcharge in Grab Dispute Photos provided to The Thaiger A foreign tourist in Phuket has expressed frustration after a recent incident with a Grab ride left him with an unexpected 100-baht surcharge. The incident took place on March 12 during a trip booked from Bangtao to Patong via the popular ride-hailing app, initially at a fixed price of 264 baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354500-phuket-tourist-faces-unwanted-100-baht-surcharge-in-grab-dispute/

Photos provided to The Thaiger A foreign tourist in Phuket has expressed frustration after a recent incident with a Grab ride left him with an unexpected 100-baht surcharge. The incident took place on March 12 during a trip booked from Bangtao to Patong via the popular ride-hailing app, initially at a fixed price of 264 baht. The journey started at 1.35pm, but during the trip, the driver charged the traveller an additional fee without prior agreement. The tourist only became aware of this extra cost upon receiving a notification from his bank after leaving the vehicle. He promptly lodged a complaint on the Grab app, marking this as the third time he has faced a similar overcharging issue. His protest stated, “The taxi charged me an extra 100 baht after I arrived. This is not the first time. I would like a refund.” However, Grab’s response was disheartening. The company’s policy mentions that it will not intervene if the passenger allegedly agrees to a higher fare during the ride, a loophole some believe is being exploited by unscrupulous drivers. This scenario highlights the challenges tourists can face with transportation services in Phuket. Visitors are advised to be vigilant when using such services, especially given previous similar complaints about unexpected charges. While the tourist in question remains doubtful about a satisfactory resolution, the case underscores the need for companies like Grab to strengthen their policies in protecting customers against fraud. Meanwhile, both authorities and service providers are encouraged to ensure transparent communication and fair practices to maintain trust in the tourism sector, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Mixed Reactions to Viral Video of Phuket Police Restraining Foreigner - video Photo via Facebook/ Brenin DeOliveira A viral video showing two Thai police officers restraining a foreign man who allegedly attacked a woman in Phuket has sparked mixed reactions on social media. The video, posted by a foreign user named Brenin DeOliveira on March 12, shows officers using force against the man after he reportedly claimed that no man could control him. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354499-mixed-reactions-to-viral-video-of-phuket-police-restraining-foreigner-video/

Photo via Facebook/ Brenin DeOliveira A viral video showing two Thai police officers restraining a foreign man who allegedly attacked a woman in Phuket has sparked mixed reactions on social media. The video, posted by a foreign user named Brenin DeOliveira on March 12, shows officers using force against the man after he reportedly claimed that no man could control him. The footage captures an officer kicking the man's leg, causing him to fall. One officer then pins him to the ground, applying a knee to his back while delivering a punch, as another officer uses a baton on his leg. While the video did not specify the exact location of the incident, comments suggest it occurred in Phuket. The online community is divided in its response. Some netizens praised the police for asserting authority over the foreigner, arguing that their decisive action is necessary to maintain respect for law enforcement among tourists. Supporters argue that the response serves as a warning to other foreigners who might disrespect local laws and authorities. Conversely, others have criticized the officers' methods as excessive, suggesting that such actions would not be tolerated in Western countries. This debate reflects differing attitudes towards policing and the use of force in maintaining public order. Critics argue that the situation could have been handled with less aggression, while some supporters feel the man's aggressive behavior warranted the officers' response. The incident has highlighted cultural perceptions of law enforcement tactics and continues to provoke discussion online, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Songkran Travel Deals: AirAsia Increases Flights and Discounts Photo courtesy of Brand Inside Thai AirAsia is celebrating the Songkran festival by offering a 30% discount on flights, available for direct bookings from March 11 to 20. This special offer coincides with the Ministry of Transport’s policy to manage peak travel demand effectively. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354498-songkran-travel-deals-airasia-increases-flights-and-discounts/

Photo courtesy of Brand Inside Thai AirAsia is celebrating the Songkran festival by offering a 30% discount on flights, available for direct bookings from March 11 to 20. This special offer coincides with the Ministry of Transport’s policy to manage peak travel demand effectively. The promotion applies to bookings via the airline’s website, the AirAsia MOVE app, and airport ticket counters. CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya announced extra flights on five popular routes from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Nakhon Phanom, Udon Thani, and Ubon Ratchathani. Flight frequency is increased with Don Mueang to Chiang Mai routes now having up to 18 flights daily. Similarly, routes to Chiang Rai and Udon Thani rise to six flights, while Nakhon Phanom and Ubon Ratchathani ramp up to four daily flights. This endeavor is a collaboration with governmental agencies to facilitate seamless travel during one of Thailand's busiest periods. The airline assures customers of top-notch safety and punctuality, anticipating a 90%-95% passenger load factor, accommodating both domestic and international travellers. Travellers are encouraged to book early as seats at discounted rates on all routes remain available. Bookings can be secured through www.airasia.com, the AirAsia MOVE app, or directly at ticket counters nationwide, ensuring customers can enjoy economical travel during the festive period, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Uncertainty Over Thailand's Proposed 400 Baht Minimum Wage Hike Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The proposed plan to implement a 400 baht national minimum wage by May 1 remains uncertain, as Boonsong Thapchaiyuth, Labour Ministry’s permanent secretary, confirmed the issue is not on the current agenda. Despite Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn’s initiative to benefit workers, discussions at the final meeting of the current Wage Board lacked focus on this proposal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354497-uncertainty-over-thailands-proposed-400-baht-minimum-wage-hike/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The proposed plan to implement a 400 baht national minimum wage by May 1 remains uncertain, as Boonsong Thapchaiyuth, Labour Ministry’s permanent secretary, confirmed the issue is not on the current agenda. Despite Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn’s initiative to benefit workers, discussions at the final meeting of the current Wage Board lacked focus on this proposal. Boonsong chaired the meeting on March 12, before the term’s end on March 13. The meeting, with three of its 15 members absent, included topics like the old-age pension formula and recent regional minimum wage impacts, yet it fell short of addressing the nationwide wage increase directly. The Wage Board's analysis involves assessing the economic impact of the recent 400 baht minimum wage trial in selected provinces and soliciting feedback on its sufficiency and challenges faced by employers and employees. The board extended its task to review wages across specific technical professions, adhering to skill standards. With the board’s term concluded, it will operate in a caretaker role until a new board convenes. Boonsong reassures ongoing operations will remain undisrupted, aligning with legal obligations. Although not on the immediate agenda, the 400 baht minimum wage remains under consideration, hinging on economic conditions and gradual enforcement. Boonsong expressed the commitment to adhering to board resolutions, aiming to meet the May 1 deadline set by the labour minister. Yet, the transition to a new board appears to be a critical factor in determining the policy's progression, reinforcing the approach of aligning wage adjustments with economic assessments, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Cannabis Bust at Koh Samui Airport: Brits and Malaysian Nabbed File photo for reference only In a major drug bust at Koh Samui International Airport, Thai authorities seized 140 kilograms of dried cannabis flowers from seven suitcases belonging to five foreign passengers. The haul, valued at around 4 million baht, was en route to Singapore, with plans to continue onto the UK. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354496-cannabis-bust-at-koh-samui-airport-brits-and-malaysian-nabbed/

File photo for reference only In a major drug bust at Koh Samui International Airport, Thai authorities seized 140 kilograms of dried cannabis flowers from seven suitcases belonging to five foreign passengers. The haul, valued at around 4 million baht, was en route to Singapore, with plans to continue onto the UK. The travellers, two British men, two British women, and a Malaysian man, were detained after X-ray scans revealed suspicious items in their luggage. Subsequent inspection confirmed the presence of vacuum-sealed cannabis. The British men and women admitted they were recruited to transport the drugs to London. The plan promised debt clearance for the men and a cash reward of £2,000 each for the women. The Malaysian was offered 6,000 ringgit for completing his part of the journey. Those involved face charges under multiple sections of Thai law governing illicit goods and controlled herbs. The group confessed and proposed forfeiting the cannabis to avoid further legal action. Recreational cannabis use remains illegal in the UK, classified as a Class B drug, with medicinal use limited to prescriptions by specialists. This incident underscores ongoing challenges in international drug trafficking, reflecting the complexities of legality across borders. As legal proceedings in Thailand unfold, the case remains a cautionary tale for travellers navigating international drug laws, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-13

British Retirees Escape Thai Jail After Violent Land Dispute Picture courtesy of The BBC Des and Mary Byrne, a British couple, have narrowly avoided a prison sentence in Thailand, receiving fines of 9,000 baht (£200) instead. Their ordeal began in 2020 when they retired to Thailand’s Thai Riviera, only to be embroiled in a violent dispute over land access, shattering their dream retirement. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354494-british-retirees-escape-thai-jail-after-violent-land-dispute/

Picture courtesy of The BBC Des and Mary Byrne, a British couple, have narrowly avoided a prison sentence in Thailand, receiving fines of 9,000 baht (£200) instead. Their ordeal began in 2020 when they retired to Thailand’s Thai Riviera, only to be embroiled in a violent dispute over land access, shattering their dream retirement. Originally from Middlesbrough, the Byrnes had invested everything in a villa to enjoy their final years. However, a December confrontation with neighbours over damage to their garden escalated into a brutal attack. Des, 77, and Mary, 69, were savagely beaten by a British man and his Thai partner, caught on CCTV. Despite this, both were accused of inflicting harm. In a peculiar twist, it was the Byrnes who ended up facing prosecution, while their attackers, who pleaded guilty, paid compensation. Both Des, a retired engineer, and Mary, a former nurse during the Covid-19 pandemic, found themselves facing potential jail time. Relieved by the court’s decision, Mary's brother, Tim Maley, noted the judge’s modest sentencing, allowing the couple to reclaim their passports and plan their return to the UK. This followed a campaign by their family to engage the British Government, appealing to various officials. Despite selling their beloved Hua Hin villa to fund legal fees, Des and Mary are preparing for their homecoming, hoping to leave the harrowing experience behind. The couple's saga highlights the potential dangers expatriates may face abroad. Now cautiously optimistic, Des and Mary are ready to resume life in the UK, looking forward to a fresh start beyond the distressing events in Thailand. Their story underscores the challenges of living overseas but ends on a hopeful note as they anticipate returning to familiar, comforting surroundings, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

British TikTok Star Jailed in Thailand Over Visa and Benefit Fraud Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Ellis Matthews, a British TikTok influencer from Lancashire, has found herself in a Thai prison for overstaying her visa. Known online as @mumontheruninasia, Ellis attracted attention for sharing her lavish lifestyle, funded by UK benefits allegedly. The 32-year-old moved to Thailand four years ago, documenting her life to over 16,000 followers. However, her controversial tips on claiming benefits while living abroad backfired, leading to a police raid at her Pattaya home. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354493-british-tiktok-star-jailed-in-thailand-over-visa-and-benefit-fraud/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Ellis Matthews, a British TikTok influencer from Lancashire, has found herself in a Thai prison for overstaying her visa. Known online as @mumontheruninasia, Ellis attracted attention for sharing her lavish lifestyle, funded by UK benefits allegedly. The 32-year-old moved to Thailand four years ago, documenting her life to over 16,000 followers. However, her controversial tips on claiming benefits while living abroad backfired, leading to a police raid at her Pattaya home. Ellis, who claimed £2,300 monthly due to purported mental health issues, now faces grim conditions in detention. Meanwhile, doubts about the legitimacy of her benefits claims loom large. British authorities do permit some overseas benefit claims, but Thailand isn't typically approved. The arrest also sparked a fundraising effort garnering little support and mixed reactions online. Despite the turmoil, Ellis’s three-year-old son, Cairo, remains in Thailand, but his mother’s older children remain in the UK. The case, tangled in claims and scepticism, echoes Ellis’s past controversies, including an unrecorded compensation claim and prior legal issues in the UK. With authorities watching closely, her future hangs in the balance, creating a poignant spectacle for family and followers alike, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13